The MURPHYS are LIVE from the Yacht Club!!! (3/19 - 3/27)

[TigrLvsPooh]

The Murphys are LIVE!!!!!!!
Yacht Club - garden view concierge
March 19 - 27, 2010

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20World%20May%202008/IMG_0639.jpg

Hello again to all my DIS friends!!! :grouphug: Have you missed us?? ;) I feel like its been way too long since our last trip to WDW, which was in March 2009. Where did the time go? We took a trip to Las Vegas in June 09, then a beach vacation to St. Pete, followed by a week at Universal/IOA in July 09, then a fall vacation to the Smokeys and Dollywood in Oct 09, and now FINALLY we are back ~home sweet home~ to WDW where we belong! :lovestruc As always, we will be coming to you LIVE with regular updates and pics so everyone can travel along with our family to the Happiest Place on Earth :cloud9: So feel free to ask questions, give comments, or just enjoy the ride. We'll be heading out first thing Friday morning, just a little over 3 days from now. For those of you who don't know us you can brush up on our previous LIVE reports here:

OLD KEY WEST/POP: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2120680

CONTEMPORARY/POLY: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1986183

AKL/POLY/OKW: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1897008

BEACH CLUB: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1806020

And inside one of those links is another page of links to older live reports as well as links to our Travel Channel special. :)

OK... so HERE WE GO!!!!!! :cool1:

The Cast:

Brendan - age 38 - Husband, father, and ESPN Radio sports guy.

Erika - age 36 (turning 37 on the trip!) - Wife, mother, and domestic goddess. Not only obsessed with Disney but also all things Twilight and Harry Potter. ;)

Nicholas - age 10 - The videogame addict, future stand-up comedian, loves all the rides, especially MS, TT, and Space Mountain. Starting to get a little bit pre-teen and can sometimes pout or get annoyed with Mom and Dad.

Connor - age 8 - The artistic one, loves all the Kidcot stations, loves any kind of drawing contests at the resorts, loves Small World, Pooh, Buzz, Seas with Nemo, TSM, Dinoland, and the HISTK playground. He is obsessed with Legos and loves to eat. ;)

The Plan:

Arriving late on Friday night (spending first night at Pop Century) then checking-in at YC early Saturday morning for 7 nights garden view concierge. No dining plan this time around, but I made a ADR for each day.

ADRs:

Le Cellier (birthday dinner)
Teppen Edo
Sci-fi
Crystal Palace (Pooh breakfast)
Cape May
Coral Reef
Mamma Melrose

If you have any questions about the resort, our dining, or anything else please go ahead and start posting your questions now and we will get them answered. :wizard:

:banana::banana::banana::banana:

[Mrs Grumpy]

Oh, I can't wait to follow you during your trip!

[dismagiclover]

I'm on board for this one! Can't wait:goodvibes

[punkin1763]

I'm in!

[TigrLvsPooh]

Packing is in FULL SWING here today! :goodvibes Gathering together all our must have Disney goodies... pressed penny books, autograph books, hats, toys, pins, and anything else we can squeeze into a suitcase. ;) We won't be flying Southwest this time so I am bound and determined to keep the 4 of us in 4 suitcases TOTAL. :rolleyes1 Can it be done?? We shall soon find out. Our addiction to FANS might really push our bags to the weight limit, not to mention my obsession with SANDALS and swimwear! LOL Somethin's gotta go! :eek:

Got our new luggage tags in the mail, and I've printed out all the necessary info and put it into a binder. After today then just TWO MORE DAYS and we'll finally be on our way!!! :banana:

Checking the 10-day forecast here is what we've got so far:

Fri
Mar 19
Mostly Sunny
74°
50°

Sat
Mar 20
Mostly Sunny
77°
57°

Sun
Mar 21
Scattered T-Storms
78°
52°

Mon
Mar 22
Partly Cloudy
70°
48°

Tue
Mar 23
Sunny
73°
58°

Wed
Mar 24
Partly Cloudy
76°
58°

Thu
Mar 25
Few Showers
76°
57°

Not too bad so far... even though its usually a lot warmer over Spring Break. But compared to the 30's we've got here today I'll take it. ;)

[jjohnson]

Time to dance:dance3:

[brergnat]

Following along. We'll be arriving just as you are leaving! We are arriving late on 3/26 for seven nights BC CL Garden View as well. :). So, I'm VERY interested in your live report! Have a great trip. In a week, I'll be knee deep in packing too. We're gonna try to get by with just TWO checked bags for our family of four! Our kids are too small to help with luggage, so we have to keep it to what DH and I can manage! The big question is definitely "Can it be done?". LOL.

[TigrLvsPooh]

Following along. We'll be arriving just as you are leaving! We are arriving late on 3/26 for seven nights BC CL Garden View as well. :). So, I'm VERY interested in your live report! Have a great trip. In a week, I'll be knee deep in packing too. We're gonna try to get by with just TWO checked bags for our family of four! Our kids are too small to help with luggage, so we have to keep it to what DH and I can manage! The big question is definitely "Can it be done?". LOL.

Ok, you are an AMAZING woman if you can pack four people in two bags! ;) I am very impressed. :thumbsup2 Usually we would have 6, so going down to 4 seems impossible, but 2 ... WOW!!!

[brergnat]

Ok, you are an AMAZING woman if you can pack four people in two bags! ;) I am very impressed. :thumbsup2 Usually we would have 6, so going down to 4 seems impossible, but 2 ... WOW!!!

Well, our kids are only 5 and 4. Their clothes are small! And I plan to do laundry while there. We have a large suitcase, and a BIG duffel. We will also have a carryon with pj's, some toiletries, and a change of clothes for each of us. Each boy has a roller backpack for the plane. I am also shipping a box ahead with all the pull ups, wipes, and consumable toiletries, soaps, etc. Hoping that will free up lots of space in the bags for clothes. Our biggest obstacle seems to be the ever changing weather forecast. We'll have to bring pants, shorts, long and short sleeves, jackets, rain gear, etc. I had been hoping it would just be hot all week like last year at this time, so we could get by on just summer clothes. No dice, though.

[TigrLvsPooh]

Well, our kids are only 5 and 4. Their clothes are small! And I plan to do laundry while there. We have a large suitcase, and a BIG duffel. We will also have a carryon with pj's, some toiletries, and a change of clothes for each of us. Each boy has a roller backpack for the plane. I am also shipping a box ahead with all the pull ups, wipes, and consumable toiletries, soaps, etc. Hoping that will free up lots of space in the bags for clothes. Our biggest obstacle seems to be the ever changing weather forecast. We'll have to bring pants, shorts, long and short sleeves, jackets, rain gear, etc. I had been hoping it would just be hot all week like last year at this time, so we could get by on just summer clothes. No dice, though.

The weather is definitely making things more difficult. Lows in the 50s mean my kids are going to need sweatshirts and pants for the evenings, and that takes up more space. Also rain in the forecast, so that means jackets. We are taking 4 large suitcases and one of them is alllll toiletries. :eek: It is amazing how much we need, and I can't carry on any of it because nothing is under 2 ounces. Oh well, lets just hope we don't buy anything! :lmao:

[MickeyT]

:banana:Woo Hoo. Livin through U. Livin though U. Bring it on:banana:

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

Looking forward to your arrival:wizard: ....when the magic begins...

[scottmel]

I am on board, Erica!! Please post the impressions you have about your view and the best area to request that would be AWAY from noise like elevators yet ensuring an awesome view!! I can't wait to hear about it! Also fill us in on the CL - rumor has it it is still being run out of the Presidential Suite but see if you can get a look at the normal CL lounge and let meknow your thoughts!!! I booked BACK to YC CL.And I am staying unless you tell me otherwise!popcorn::

[BlueSkies]

Erika.... Another Live TR! YAY! I really enjoy reading along! I also am very interested in hearing about your stay at the YC CL..thinking about staying there for our next stay..(just DH and I ..no kids..)

Safe travels!:goodvibes

[brergnat]

Right now, I have a HUGE Bed, Bath, and Beyond shopping bag full of "toiletries and stuff". I looked at it yesterday, and wondered "where will all of this fit?" I mean, just the 15 pull ups we will need for a week's worth of nighttime wearing by our boys so they don't wet the beds takes up like 1/4 of our carryon suitcase. That's when I realized I'd be best off packing that stuff up in a box and shipping it ALL FedEx. I mean, what would happen if I packed all that stuff in one bag and it got lost? I'd die!!! So, at least I can guarantee that it will arrive when we need it.

The toiletries in our airline carryon bag are just the bare essentials: toothbrushes, paste, deodorant, and meds. It'll all fit into two quart ziplocs for all of us. Just in case of a hiccup on the way there (our plane makes a stop).

[TigrLvsPooh]

Right now, I have a HUGE Bed, Bath, and Beyond shopping bag full of "toiletries and stuff". I looked at it yesterday, and wondered "where will all of this fit?" I mean, just the 15 pull ups we will need for a week's worth of nighttime wearing by our boys so they don't wet the beds takes up like 1/4 of our carryon suitcase. That's when I realized I'd be best off packing that stuff up in a box and shipping it ALL FedEx. I mean, what would happen if I packed all that stuff in one bag and it got lost? I'd die!!! So, at least I can guarantee that it will arrive when we need it.

The toiletries in our airline carryon bag are just the bare essentials: toothbrushes, paste, deodorant, and meds. It'll all fit into two quart ziplocs for all of us. Just in case of a hiccup on the way there (our plane makes a stop).

Be careful about toothpaste and deoderant, they took my toothpaste at the security checkpoint because it was too big. ;)

I just bought a new set of BBW stuff too!!!! :goodvibes I think its called Travel to Tahiti? LOL Or Trip to Tahiti! :laughing: It smells soooooo good!

WELCOME EVERYONE!!!! Let the MAGIC ~*~*~* BEGIN!! :wizard:

[WiscMomof2]

Looking forward to hearing about your trip!!! I hope the weather forecast improves for you, but as you said it beats the heck out of midwest weather this time of year.

I see you're staying at POP for 1 night and have stayed there numerous other times as well. Me and youngest DD are staying there for the 1st time in June for a short 4 day trip. Do you have a recommendation for a good non- preferred room location?

[heaven2dc]

I can't wait for this trip to start! You have a great list of ADR's and what a beautiful place to stay - Yacht Club!

[DisneyJBL]

Joining in too, Erika! A relative newbie to the boards, but excited to watch your report as I will be at YC from 4.12-4.21!!! :banana::banana::banana:

Have a great trip,

Jeff

[beautyqueen]

Can't wait to hear, I'm planning our first trip and we are BC CL in Aug....

[TigrLvsPooh]

Looking forward to hearing about your trip!!! I hope the weather forecast improves for you, but as you said it beats the heck out of midwest weather this time of year.

I see you're staying at POP for 1 night and have stayed there numerous other times as well. Me and youngest DD are staying there for the 1st time in June for a short 4 day trip. Do you have a recommendation for a good non- preferred room location?

70's B is my favorite building. It is very close to the bus stop and has good parking. Also it is close to the food court. :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

I am on board, Erica!! Please post the impressions you have about your view and the best area to request that would be AWAY from noise like elevators yet ensuring an awesome view!! I can't wait to hear about it! Also fill us in on the CL - rumor has it it is still being run out of the Presidential Suite but see if you can get a look at the normal CL lounge and let meknow your thoughts!!! I booked BACK to YC CL.And I am staying unless you tell me otherwise!popcorn::

Oh wow, tell me all about this??? So the actual lounge is closed??

[Brave teacher]

YAY! I love live trip reports! I look forward to hearing all about your trip!

[beautyqueen]

I just spent an hour or more looking thru your older reports and LOVE them!

[sabina720]

I am in, this will be the 1st live trip report I've read! So excited :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

I just spent an hour or more looking thru your older reports and LOVE them!

thanks!!!! :lovestruc

[MHTeacher]

YAY! :yay: We'll be at Disney during the same time! My sister and I, along with our kids, will be starting out tomorrow afternoon for a drive down. We'll arrive Friday afternoon. Just like you, packing is in full swing---Actually most of the packing is done, but tonight will be crazy-hectic, as always! :)

Lucky you---staying at YC. We stayed there for the first time this past New Year's Eve trip. :goodvibes

Maybe we'll see each other! :thumbsup2

[aprilisis]

I'm subscribing. I just got hooked on the Yacht Club this past January!

[elizflynn]

I can't wait Erika! I am infatuated with all your reports, I've finally finished reading them all and I have to say, you make me feel as if I'm with you on the trip!!! Great job! :banana:

[jeremysdisneymom]

:yay:Count me in! I have read your other reports. Most importantly, love your Travel Channel Show.

popcorn::Looking forward to more!

Erika (in Ohio)

[scottmel]

Oh wow, tell me all about this??? So the actual lounge is closed??

You tell us when you get there but per the IPO, yes the YC lounge is closed and going thru a soft rehab but being run out of Presidential Suite. That is what I was told and was told it would be open when I got there in June....Correct or not - let us know!

[TigrLvsPooh]

YAY! :yay: We'll be at Disney during the same time! My sister and I, along with our kids, will be starting out tomorrow afternoon for a drive down. We'll arrive Friday afternoon. Just like you, packing is in full swing---Actually most of the packing is done, but tonight will be crazy-hectic, as always! :)

Lucky you---staying at YC. We stayed there for the first time this past New Year's Eve trip. :goodvibes

Maybe we'll see each other! :thumbsup2


If you see us please stop and say hello!!!! :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

You tell us when you get there but per the IPO, yes the YC lounge is closed and going thru a soft rehab but being run out of Presidential Suite. That is what I was told and was told it would be open when I got there in June....Correct or not - let us know!

Wow, Ok, I will be sure to let you know tomorrow when we arrive. :)

We fly out this afternoon!! HOORAY!!!! :cool1: We'll probably arrive at WDW around 9:00 pm or so tonight. Checking in at Pop for one night. Probably won't hit a park, but I am making a secret trip to Walmart to get my New Moon DVD at midnight. :rolleyes1 ((yes I am crazy))

Can't wait to share our first arrival pics tonight!!!! :yay:

[trixiequilts]

I can't wait to follow your trip, LIVE! I hope your flights are totally uneventful...the best kind! :goodvibes

[TigrLvsPooh]

Sitting at the gate and almost ready to board :)

WDW here we come!!!!!!

[PryncessChrysty]

I'm joining in to follow along!

I hope you have a great time & a safe trip! :goodvibes

[DLo]

Can't wait to read your report. Have a magical trip.

[jwwi]

Have fun on your trip, I will be looking forward to the live reports.

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

I can't wait to hear all about your room at the YC tomorrow :lovestruc

[Brave teacher]

YAY!!! I can't wait to hear about your first day!

[DisneyDarlings]

Yippee! A live report! Can't wait for you to get there!!!

[BlueSkies]

I can't wait to hear all about your room at the YC tomorrow :lovestruc

Me too! Safe travels Erika...

[beautyqueen]

Should have landed by now, hope you had a great flight....can't wait to hear all about your first night and see the pix!

[junderwood99]

Subbing in! Can't wait to hear all about your trip!

[TigrLvsPooh]

I don't even know where to start!!!

Ok, I am on my blackberry, but we made it safely to Orlando, flight was on time, got right on ME to Pop, smooth sailing. :)

When we got to Pop for check-in we had a MAJOR problem. For some reason our two rooms for one night got booked a month apart. One room for tonight, the other for February. But it was obvious that the mistake wasn't on my end, or Pop's, it was CRO. A type-o that should have been caught. The paperwork had been typed up incorrectly with the correct dates and the confirmation numbers were almost the same. The rooms were paid in full. I still can't believe that the concierge at YC (who linked all three reservations together) never caught it.

Long story short.... Too late!!!!

So they didn't have another room to give us. (There are 5 of us so we couldn't stay in one room) They were sold out. So after several rounds with a nasty supervisor we got a very nice manager who made things right. We got into our room at YC a day early and they even drove us over. After a quick check-in with concierge we were in the lounge eating dessert about 10 minutes before it closed for the night. LOL. ;)

Ahhhhhhh!!!!!!!

(That was the longest check-in EVER)

So, to answer a very important question, YES the concierge lounge is in the presidential suite which has a gorgeous view of the lake and Boardwalk. We had these lemon bars that were to die for and now I want to go to bed. LOL ;)

Tomorrow morning we hit the parks!!!!

Any questions?????

Let the insanity continue!!!!! :) :) :)

[heaven2dc]

You definitely ended up lucking out by getting to stay at YC instead of POP (not that there is anything wrong with POP, of course). At least you don't have to move in the morning!

Glad you made it safe and are now hopefully snoozing away in your comfy YC bed! Can't wait to hear about tomorrow and how the weather is and the crowd levels!

[jwwi]

Wow, I'm sure that was not fun. Hope your kids held up ok with all the changes. So happy you don't have to move tomorrow though. All is good at WDW.............

Have a great time tomorrow.:cool1: First day at the parks.

[TigrLvsPooh]

It has been a crazy night that is for sure! :) I am back in the room with youngest DS, he wasn't feeling well and was super tired. DH and oldest DS are at the ESPN Club watching basketball. Luckily my good friend was able to go to Walmart tonight and get my New Moon DVD for me. :thumbsup2 It's a good thing I stayed here to be on sick patrol. ;) It wouldn't be Disney if someone wasn't running for the bushes. LOL :lmao:

Tomorrow it begins!!!!!! :)

Good night all!!!! :goodvibes

[Mrs Grumpy]

Oh my. Glad everything worked out. Hope everyone is feeling better this morning.

[scottmel]

Oh Erika!!! Well at least you got to YC early!!!:) fill us in on the all important VIEW in a garden view room and if decent - what did you put on your request to get a nice view? Can't wait to see pics of the YC - can you see any progress on the soon to be completed YC lounge? Have a wonderful day!!!! Thanks! melissa:cool1:

[momof2minnies]

Erika,
Have a blast- can't wait to read more.How pathetic does that make all of us???

Linda

[scottmel]

Erika,
Have a blast- can't wait to read more.How pathetic does that make all of us???

Linda

I'm sitting right there with popcorn::popcorn::you, linda!!!! LOL!

[MickeyT]

Ya See Erika.

The way I always look at these situations>>>> You sure will remember that check in!:woohoo:. If it had been normal the memories would not be quite as vivid! I hope everyone is feeling ok :sick: today and you guys are on stride for a great trip.

[txmomto1]

Subbing! Hopefully that will be the only issue on a great trip!

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

WOW! Your trip started off with a bang of the unfortunate variety.:rolleyes: But in the end, it saves you time today! I sure hope the little guy is feeling better today after a good night's sleep.

Sending good vibes for a magical day..........:wizard:

[TigrLvsPooh]

It's a beautiful day!!!!!!!! :)

we are at epcot and it's pretty crowded.

We had a yummy breakfast in the lounge,
and we checked out and back in to a different room.

More updates soon!!!!!!!! :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Hey everyone :)

We are still at epcot... Did MS and TT, just had lunch in China at the Lotus Blossom Cafe. Got fp's for Soarin. Its a beautiful day, shorts and a tshirt is plenty. Definitely haven't needed a sweatshirt. :)

Tonight we are heading to MK I think. I should have my first batch of pictures tonight. :)

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

I am so jealous. I LOVE Soarin :cloud9: Can't wait to hear more and see some pics. So happy to hear the weather has improved.

[TigrLvsPooh]

Howdy folks :)

After spending all our money (or I should say Grandma's money) at the japanese toy store we went back to the YC, got our new room, and now we are heading to dinner (off property) with allllll the Murphys. ;) There are about 15 of us down here this weekend. Then tonight we'll head to MK. They are open til midnight.

I just can't get over how warm and sunny it is!!!! :)

I have a full report on our room coming next.......

[TigrLvsPooh]

You definitely ended up lucking out by getting to stay at YC instead of POP (not that there is anything wrong with POP, of course). At least you don't have to move in the morning!

Glad you made it safe and are now hopefully snoozing away in your comfy YC bed! Can't wait to hear about tomorrow and how the weather is and the crowd levels!

Very warm, and very crowded. ;)
We got to Epcot around 10ish this morning and waits for TT and Soarin were already 90 and 120 mins. The line for Speaceship Earth was wound around all the cattle shoots. I'd say prepare to use EMHs for sure this week. And shorts/tshirts during the daytime. :)

[DisneyDarlings]

Loving all the updates. And I'm glad the weather has decided to behave!

[heaven2dc]

Glad you are having great weather :thumbsup2 Have fun with all the Murphy's tonight at dinner!

[beautyqueen]

Glad the weather is so good for you guys even if yesterdays check in was alittle crazy, and I hope your ds starts feeling better really soon and can enjoy himself.

[HockeyMomR]

Ahhh - thanks for the great updates. Sorry to read of your check in fiasco, but seemed to end up working out great :thumbsup2

Lotus Blossom - love the for a quick lunch at Epcot, think our favorite counter service in WS.

Have a wonderful trip, enjoying your updates!

[TigrLvsPooh]

Well, MK was completely packed tonight. Wait times are 60, 70, 90 minutes for everything. Since we've got seven more days we decided to head back to the YC area and hit the Boardwalk. Let the kids play some videogames. We had dessert in the lounge again... That's about all there is to report tonight.

Pictures from our first day coming soon!!! :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Oh Erika!!! Well at least you got to YC early!!!:) fill us in on the all important VIEW in a garden view room and if decent - what did you put on your request to get a nice view? Can't wait to see pics of the YC - can you see any progress on the soon to be completed YC lounge? Have a wonderful day!!!! Thanks! melissa:cool1:

Our first room (last night) was 5216, which was a long walk from the elevator and lounge and overlooked the parking lot. Our new room we are in starting today is very close to the lounge and elevator, and overlooking the main entrance. Not a good view, but that's OK. We actually asked about paying more for water view but it's sold out.

I will ask about the lounge tomorrow, I peeked in today and it seems fine to me. The furniture is all in there and I didn't see any signs of work being done. I have to say that the temporary lounge in the Pres Suite has a much better view. We sat in there again tonight for desserts. There is a sitting room off the main dining room that is a round turret overlooking every angle of the Boardwalk. Very nice. :) I have pictures to post!! :)

[wendypooh]

Hey Erika.......

Jumping in late........... but, better late than never!!! Hope you guys are having a great time!!! :goodvibes

Looking forward to the pics!!! :goodvibes

[momof2minnies]

Sounds great.... keep it coming! Would love to see pix of the YC never really thought of staying there.

Waiting patiently...

Linda

[TigrLvsPooh]

Good morning everyone!!!! :)

we're heading to the studios today.....with an 80% chance of rain and thunderstorms. I'm just waiting for the kids to wake up so I can upload all the pics from yesterday.

Thanks for joining us!!!!

[jjohnson]

Have a great day. I hope the forecast is wrong.

[DisneyDarlings]

Hope you have a magical day and the rain stays away! Can't wait to see your pics...

[heaven2dc]

Sending some sunshine your way to ward off those clouds :beach::sunny::sunny::sunny:

[scottmel]

Cant wait to see your pics as well and anxious for your impression of YC CL. I have bounced back and forth on YC and BC CL for this June trip so anxious to hear your rendered verdict on YC CL being pleasing..I give you credit for not minding your view, it would really annoy me...Hence why I love BWI CL they pretty much ALLLL have great views there (aside espn view) but seems like YC CL Garden View is dicey - which is precisely where I am booked this June....Thanks Erika!

[jwwi]

Rain at WDW is still better than being at home...........

Have fun!

[Brave teacher]

I am glad it has been warm for you. It rained here in South Louisiana yesterday. If this is the same storm, it waon't last long...maybe a hour. Everything sounds wonderful right now. I can't wait to hear more!

[TigrLvsPooh]

Here I am :)

We went to the Studios this morning for a couple of hours right before it started pouring. Did Toy Story Mania, Star Tours, and the HISTK Playground. Then took the boat back to YC for lunch at the Captain's Grille.

Here come the pictures!!!!! :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Pics of the boys at our very short stay at Pop Century ;)

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5892.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5893.jpg


Epcot yesterday.....

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5896.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5897.jpg

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http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5901.jpg

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http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5904.jpg

[TigrLvsPooh]

More Epcot yesterday.........

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5905.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5907.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5911.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5915.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5916.jpg

[TigrLvsPooh]

Yacht Club

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5917.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5918.jpg

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http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5924.jpg

[TigrLvsPooh]

Hanging in the YC lounge last night....

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5935.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5936.jpg

My other lounge pics didn't really turn out because it was dark. I'll take more when its sunny. :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

It is pouring still....

We are eating snacks down in the lounge and watching basketball. Not sure what ours plans will be tonight. Originally we were going to the Studios for dinner at Mama Melrose and Fantastic, then to MK for EMHs. But everything is on hold now for the rain. We might just stay here until later tonight and head to MK if the weather improves.

:)

[wildcatfan]

I just happened upon your report today. I am all caught up, keep the updates coming. The YC is beautiful, and so are the flowers at Epcot. I too am watching the games today!! We are big UK fans so we are all glued to the sets this year.:cool1: I hope the rain is gone soon so you can enjoy the parks tonight. I really hope you do not miss Fantasmic, that is my favorite show!!:)

[TigrLvsPooh]

hey Wildcatfan!!! :) My Mom is here with us and she is a BIG fan too. She stayed back in the room last night to watch the game (she lives in Berea, KY) ... my husband and I are Purdue fans to our game is today. March Madness in full swing! ;)

[TigrLvsPooh]

OK, so here is my take on YC concierge at this point...

We have enjoyed the resort itself and the lounge. The food and drink offerings are good and the staff in the lounge is very nice and helpful with anything we need. (example: beers for DH, lemon for my tea, keeing things refilled, tables clean, etc). Sadly I have not been impressed with the main staff members at the desks near the elevator. At check-in they seemed annoyed. They never mentioned anything about it being my birthday trip, no birthday button, etc. No welcome pack for the kids, they pretty much handed us our keys and that was it. They seemed like they'd rather be almost anywhere than here. ;) They aren't overly friendly or chatty with guests like we've experienced at other resorts. They haven't asked us where we are from, made small talk, etc. I've found the concierge staff at AKL, GF, WL, Poly, and the BWI super friendly to us, especially to the kids, the staff here hasn't said even a Hello to my kids, never offering them a sticker or a coloring book, etc. Not that I require anything, but usually someone will approach them and ask how they are or if they are enjoying their stay. Usually when we pass the desk they are on the phone or looking at papers. Normally we will learn a lot about the staff, where they are from, their names, etc, but I'm not thinking we'll get to know anyone here.

There is a super nice man working down in the lounge refilling the food. He said they've been down in the Presidential Suite for about two weeks and should be back to the regular lounge by Thursday or Friday at the latest. So I'll be able to experience both this week.

Pics:

[TigrLvsPooh]

YC concierge lounge (Presidential Suite):

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5957.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5956.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5955.jpg

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http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5953.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5952.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5951.jpg

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http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5948.jpg

[TigrLvsPooh]

As you can probably tell those pictures are from this afternoon, so the food is just snacks this time of day. Yogurt covered pretzels, Swedish Fish, Banana chips, trail mix, chips with dip, cookies, and then soft drinks, coffee, tea.

Any questions???

[wildcatfan]

I am sure your mom enjoyed the big win last night!!!:thumbsup2 I hope you all run into some CMs that are more talkative. I always enjoy striking up a conversation with them. I learn a lot and it makes everything more personal. Good luck to Purdue, I know a lot of people are on the Texas AM wagon right now, but anything is possible in this tournament. (who would have thought NI would have beaten Kansas)

[TigrLvsPooh]

i know it!!! We were all in shock to see Kansas get beat. Those players were so upset I felt bad for them. But that's what the tournament's all about.... Cinderella Stories ;)

[sedun]

My kids were so excited to see a picture of the pool and that it was sunny. (I didn't tell them you said it started to rain!!) It snowed here in Illinios yesterday. We arrive at the YC a week from today and we can't wait!!! We're loving your trip report.

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

Stupid rain! Hopefully it will clear up for your evening plans.:goodvibes

I would love to hear a run-down of the in-room dining menu specifically breakfast. Wondering if it is the same posted on AllEars or if the menu items have changed. Also curious as to the hot breakfast items offered at BC Marketplace. DH is worried about his morning bfst choices as we have stayed at the Poly the last 2 trips and we love CC's menu.

[heaven2dc]

Love all the pics (esp the one of the view of the Boardwalk from the YC beach :lovestruc)! Our first experience at BWV would have probably been the same - we watched CM's either on the phone or reading paperwork when we first approached the waiting area to check in. However, my sis-in-law and I were SO excited to be there (our first visit) that we kepe hopping up and down like 2 little kids. The male CM looked up at us, rolled his eyes and looked back down at his pw. Well, he could see we weren't going away and no one else was helping us so he finally looked up and had to laugh. It finally broke the ice and he said "I'm guessing this is your first visit?!. He was the best CM throughout that trip in 1997. I also had a great CM (male again) at BWV in Dec 2008 - when he would see me walking to my room or out for the day, he would holler "Hello Mrs. Cochran!" That alone made me always want to go back irregardless of the other "busy" CM's. Hopefully one will take notice and be friendly towards your family!

[YCFAN]

Hi Murphy Family!
I'm enjoying your live report as I usually enjoy ALL of your reports!:goodvibes

Maybe I'm wrong but I thought that the suite on the 5th floor was the Admiral Suite and the Presidental Suite was on the 4th floor with the Captain's Deck being on the 1st floor. Is this the Admiral Suite or the Presidential Suite? If you wouldn't mind, would you ask the question of one of the CMs? I'd just like to know which one the pictures are of. Thanks, Erika!! I'm a huge YC fan as you can see from my sign-on name!!:love:

Hope your trip is magical and the rain stops soon.:wizard:

[scottmel]

Thanks Erika for taking the time to post pics and opinions. I just fell in love with BWI CL last summer and honestly am a little worried YC CL won't live up to the bar that was set for me. SAB is the only reason for booking YC CL. As the week progresses, I will be anxious to hear if attitudes impoved, if the offerings of food made you feel CL was worth it (in the June heat I am pretty sure I am sticking with CL). Funny though so many have RAVED about the CL staff at YC...hoping you just ran into an off crew that night and things impove..At the heart of it all, I guess BWI just spoiled me and I don't like hearing about your dicey garden view. Any way to ask someone of all the club level views (how many there are I don't know, meaning rooms) - how many are actually GOOD garden views? Like if there is 50 club level rooms are there 5 decent views that are actually a garden???? Thanks melissa

Sending you prayers for the rain to stop!!!!

[HockeyMomR]

Loving the pics!

Yes, Pres. Suite would have a much better view than the regular YC CL lounge, lucky you.

Basketball, yuck, U. of Maryland lost today in the last 0.6 seconds of the game. DS18 will most likely be attending there next year so big upset.

Enjoy, hope the rain stops! Just love this time of year at Disney, look like you had a great sunny day at Epcot. Hoping more of those for you.

[waltman66]

have a great time the weather is supposed to really nice .. great pics!!!!:cool2::cool2:

[TigrLvsPooh]

Hi Murphy Family!
I'm enjoying your live report as I usually enjoy ALL of your reports!:goodvibes

Maybe I'm wrong but I thought that the suite on the 5th floor was the Admiral Suite and the Presidental Suite was on the 4th floor with the Captain's Deck being on the 1st floor. Is this the Admiral Suite or the Presidential Suite? If you wouldn't mind, would you ask the question of one of the CMs? I'd just like to know which one the pictures are of. Thanks, Erika!! I'm a huge YC fan as you can see from my sign-on name!!:love:

Hope your trip is magical and the rain stops soon.:wizard:

The sign on the outside of the door says Presidential Suite #5157. :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Thanks Erika for taking the time to post pics and opinions. I just fell in love with BWI CL last summer and honestly am a little worried YC CL won't live up to the bar that was set for me. SAB is the only reason for booking YC CL. As the week progresses, I will be anxious to hear if attitudes impoved, if the offerings of food made you feel CL was worth it (in the June heat I am pretty sure I am sticking with CL). Funny though so many have RAVED about the CL staff at YC...hoping you just ran into an off crew that night and things impove..At the heart of it all, I guess BWI just spoiled me and I don't like hearing about your dicey garden view. Any way to ask someone of all the club level views (how many there are I don't know, meaning rooms) - how many are actually GOOD garden views? Like if there is 50 club level rooms are there 5 decent views that are actually a garden???? Thanks melissa

Sending you prayers for the rain to stop!!!!

Having stayed at the BWI CL I have to say the long walk down those twisty turning hallways was a big deterant for us. It's nice to just pop on the elevator here and you're right in the lobby. But I agree, the staff at the BWI was better. I'd say the food and lounge are the same. You will love SAB, it makes this resort win out of the BWI in my opinion. We aren't big fans of the scary clown pool. LOL :lmao:

[TigrLvsPooh]

Loving the pics!

Yes, Pres. Suite would have a much better view than the regular YC CL lounge, lucky you.

Basketball, yuck, U. of Maryland lost today in the last 0.6 seconds of the game. DS18 will most likely be attending there next year so big upset.

Enjoy, hope the rain stops! Just love this time of year at Disney, look like you had a great sunny day at Epcot. Hoping more of those for you.


We saw the end of the Maryland game while we were waiting for the Purdue game. ESPN club was packed with basketball fans. We lucked out and found a bunch of people to cheer with. And PURDUE WON!!! :) :cool1:

[wildcatfan]

Congrats to Purdue, now you can breathe easy and enjoy the trip, at least until Friday's game. I hope the rain has cleared out and you all are getting ready for Fantasmic.

[jwwi]

I hope you are now enjoying the MK.pirate: The topiaries this year are great, did your family have a favorite. Check out the cute Tink bird bath:rolleyes1, one will be in my garden this year. I think you can only get them at Epcot.:lovestruc

[goodfood4ursoul]

OK, so here is my take on YC concierge at this point...

Sadly I have not been impressed with the main staff members at the desks near the elevator. At check-in they seemed annoyed. They never mentioned anything about it being my birthday trip, no birthday button, etc. No welcome pack for the kids, they pretty much handed us our keys and that was it. They seemed like they'd rather be almost anywhere than here. ;) They aren't overly friendly or chatty with guests like we've experienced at other resorts. They haven't asked us where we are from, made small talk, etc...
... the staff here hasn't said even a Hello to my kids, never offering them a sticker or a coloring book, etc. Not that I require anything, but usually someone will approach them and ask how they are or if they are enjoying their stay. Usually when we pass the desk they are on the phone or looking at papers. Normally we will learn a lot about the staff, where they are from, their names, etc, but I'm not thinking we'll get to know anyone here.
:


:eek: Wow. How underwhelming!
Our experience at BC was the complete opposite- they had our buttons waiting, I received a long-stemmed rose, and we had numerous lovely conversations with CMs including Art the Greeter, who has since retired :sad1:
While you are there, you might mention the Motel 6 welcome you received to someone, and give them a chance to make it right. :confused3

Hope the rest of your stay is magical! :wizard:

[scottmel]

Having stayed at the BWI CL I have to say the long walk down those twisty turning hallways was a big deterant for us. It's nice to just pop on the elevator here and you're right in the lobby. But I agree, the staff at the BWI was better. I'd say the food and lounge are the same. You will love SAB, it makes this resort win out of the BWI in my opinion. We aren't big fans of the scary clown pool. LOL :lmao:

Do you think YC or BC is much of a difference? I just read on the BWI board where someone just returned from BWI CL and was underwhelmed. Said staff was just ok, rooms nice, etc, lousy view....But maybe just a turn in the tides with the discounts being offered, etc. So hearing HER report on BWI made me ok not to be going back but now your report on YC has me thinking BC - or do you think it is splitting hairs at this point? My biggest worry is theview and seems like BC/YC share that annoyance....

[TigrLvsPooh]

Do you think YC or BC is much of a difference? I just read on the BWI board where someone just returned from BWI CL and was underwhelmed. Said staff was just ok, rooms nice, etc, lousy view....But maybe just a turn in the tides with the discounts being offered, etc. So hearing HER report on BWI made me ok not to be going back but now your report on YC has me thinking BC - or do you think it is splitting hairs at this point? My biggest worry is theview and seems like BC/YC share that annoyance....

If view is your most important concern I'd go with YC CL water view or BC CL water view. Then request a boardwalk view. They are amazing. BWI CL garden view (rose garden) is what we had and it was very nice, but like I said before the rat maze of hallways to get back to our room was insane to me.

[aprilisis]

I am loving your TR! I found the front desk staff to be a little anti-social at YC, too. The greeters at the door were awesome, though! The housekeepers were very nice, too, during my last stay. I hope the staff "warms up" during your stay. Your Epcot photos were awesome! :thumbsup2

[disadventurer]

subbing:goodvibes:goodvibes

[TigrLvsPooh]

Good morning everyone! :)

So last night at MK was awesome! We arrived at about 9:00 PM, saw Spectromagic, then hit pretty much every ride in the park with no wait. We left around 1:00 AM. It was cold last night, we had on pants and jackets, but the forecast for today and the rest of the week looks awesome. Sunny and 70's! :thumbsup2

We are headed to Epcot! Pics from yesterday will be up later today.

Any questions?? :)

[cydisney]

great report so far!! I'm all caught up and can't wait to hear more!

[jjohnson]

I know your not doing the DP this time but if your in Marketplace and have some time on your hands, could you check & see if there is any new items to add to the snack credit list? TIA Joyce

(strange i can not copy/paste from the snack thread:confused3)

[brergnat]

Have you guys gone swimming yet at SAB? Curious about crowds at the pool and water temp.

Also, could you check for me if whole wheat english muffins or sandwich bread are available to purchase at the Marketplace? TIA!!

Only four more days until we arrive at BC!!!

[TigrLvsPooh]

We haven't been down to the BC side so far this trip, so I haven't seen what they have down there at the Marketplace, but I did check the YC lobby this morning and they had muffins, cinnamon rolls, bagels, toast, english muffins, and drinks for sale when we walked by at about 10:45 AM. A pretty good selection for breakfast stuff.

We just got back to the room from another trip to Epcot. We did Test Track, Innoventions, Journey into Imagination, Kim Possible, lunch at Japan and France (counter service: california roll for me, dh and kids had pizza and pastries from France) and lots of shopping and walking around the World Showcase. The day started out sunny and warm then quickly turned cold, cloudy, and windy, so we were pretty miserable without our sweatshirts. We are going to change clothes for tonight and put on pants and long sleeves. We've got dinner at Teppen Edo. Still trying to decide if we want to venture over to the Studios for EMH. I guess we'll play it by ear. :)

Didn't really take many pictures today (too cold to stop walking LOL) but I've got some from last night to post.

I'll get back to you guys about the Marketplace as soon as I can get over there.

Anything else I can check for anyone??

:goodvibes

[TigrLvsPooh]

Have you guys gone swimming yet at SAB? Curious about crowds at the pool and water temp.

Also, could you check for me if whole wheat english muffins or sandwich bread are available to purchase at the Marketplace? TIA!!

Only four more days until we arrive at BC!!!

Saturday the pool was fairly crowded and the water was very warm. Yesterday it rained all day so nobody was at the pool at all. Today it is pretty cold, we saw a handful of people down there just now as we walked to the room but its really too cold to swim with the strong wind blowing right now. We are planning some pool days later this week when the temps go into the upper 70's and low 80's! :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

I know your not doing the DP this time but if your in Marketplace and have some time on your hands, could you check & see if there is any new items to add to the snack credit list? TIA Joyce

(strange i can not copy/paste from the snack thread:confused3)

I will walk down there tonight and get a list for you :)

[sedun]

I was just wondering how the buses are to and from MK. We'll be at the YC next week and I think we should take the bus to MK and DH seems to think we should drive.

Also do you know what the movies are on the beach?

Thanks!!

[TigrLvsPooh]

I was just wondering how the buses are to and from MK. We'll be at the YC next week and I think we should take the bus to MK and DH seems to think we should drive.

Also do you know what the movies are on the beach?

Thanks!!

We haven't had any problems with the bus to MK. We waited maybe 5 minutes last night, it only shared with BC so we didn't have to stop at S/D or BWI. I wouldn't drive, because then you'll be stuck taking either the monorail or the ferry, and those are always a mess.

Last night the movie was Herbie Fully Loaded and they were roasting smores. I'll check the list tonight and get back to you about what other movies are playing. :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

MK last night:

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5958.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5959.jpg


Epcot today:

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5961.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5960.jpg

The Sum of all Thrills looks amazing! The line was too long but I'd love to do it sometime. :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Just had our first hot aps in the lounge. We had chicken skewers, crab rangoon, assorted antipasta items, veggies, rice, cheeses, crackers, pbj for the kids, a nice selection of stuff I think. We are so full now I'm not sure we'll even go to dinner! ;) We ate a lot more than we thought we would. Now I'm regretting not going down the last two nights to see what they had to offer. LOL

Still a bit cold and cloudy, but no rain today.

OMgoodnessss!!! Just as I was typing this the news did a special on the Harry Potter World at Universal... they are holding a press conference Thursday to announce the opening day!!!! :cool1: They showed everything from helicopter view and it looks amazing!! I can't wait to come back and see it!!! :wizard:

[scottmel]

The food sounds yummy, Erika! We did dining plan and CL last year and way too much food for me. I am not a big eater and neither is DD. DH can be. But honestly I was kind of planning on eating dinner at YC CL this June and by the sounds of it looks like there are a few things to choose from. Good!!! I can always supplement DH at a quick serve but 3 nights I am planning dinner at YC!!! Thanks for the info on the meals...

[disadventurer]

Good morning everyone! :)

So last night at MK was awesome! We arrived at about 9:00 PM, saw Spectromagic, then hit pretty much every ride in the park with no wait. We left around 1:00 AM. It was cold last night, we had on pants and jackets, but the forecast for today and the rest of the week looks awesome. Sunny and 70's! :thumbsup2

We are headed to Epcot! Pics from yesterday will be up later today.

Any questions?? :)

Thanks for doing all of this--your pictures are great!! If you don't mind, I have a question about the Spectro Magic Parade. Where, would you say, is a good viewing location? TIA:goodvibes

[wildcatfan]

Thanks for the update! I hate it that it is cold! Yuk! I am keeping my fingers crossed it warms up. I have never tried pizza in France, I will have to give it a try this time.

[TigrLvsPooh]

Thanks for doing all of this--your pictures are great!! If you don't mind, I have a question about the Spectro Magic Parade. Where, would you say, is a good viewing location? TIA:goodvibes

It depends on what you want to do after the parade. If you are leaving the park after the parade then I would recommend watching near the fire station or the big camera store. Or near the flagpole. Something in that general area. If you are planning to ride rides after the parade I would recommend Frontierland, we like to be by the shooting arcade or down near the turkey leg stand. :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Thanks for the update! I hate it that it is cold! Yuk! I am keeping my fingers crossed it warms up. I have never tried pizza in France, I will have to give it a try this time.

I forget the name it was called, it was sort of like a french bread type pizza... long shape with your choice of either plain cheese or ham and cheese. The quiches and the sandwiches also looked pretty good. And of course the best part of France, the pastries!!! ;)

[TigrLvsPooh]

We just got back to the room from a fun night at Hollywood Studios (extra magic hours from 7-10). We did Toy Story, Playhouse dance party, Tower of Terror, Rock n Roller Coaster, Animation area, uhhhh, I think that's about it. Wait times were moderate. Our longest wait was about 40 minutes for Toy Story and 30 or so for RnR. ToT was about 15. Not too bad. The weather is still cool, high tomorrow is only supposed to be 69 so I guess we'll be wearing our sweatshirts again.

I have to cut it short tonight! We have an early Pooh breakfast at Crystal Palace in the morning.

Night night all!!! :)

[jjohnson]

Wow it sure is chilly. I can't imagine being cold in WDW, were always there in the summertime:sunny:

If its easier, you could take pics of the DP snack credits.

Do you happen to know if the items over at YC accept the DP? TIA

[dizfamily4]

My son's favorite is the "french bread' pizza in France...we now make it at home too!:goodvibes

[KristyBDJ]

Hey guys! Love reading this thread, I love to close my eyes and pretend I'm there. Only 6 more weeks and I won't have to pretend!:cool1: Anyway, glad you're all having fun. I have a couple of info requests for you if you don't mind. If you're in Epcot WS at all can you get an idea of the cost to do the pick a pearl in Japan. I want to do this for myself, my DD4 and a gift for my mother. I'm thinking we would all get some kind of necklace but have no idea how much to budget for it. Any info or pics of choices would be super helpful. And can you keep an eye out for the characters you see as you go? I'm making autograph books for our May trip and am curious who you are seeing. TIA and have fun for all of us stuck at home right now!:laughing:

[disadventurer]

It depends on what you want to do after the parade. If you are leaving the park after the parade then I would recommend watching near the fire station or the big camera store. Or near the flagpole. Something in that general area. If you are planning to ride rides after the parade I would recommend Frontierland, we like to be by the shooting arcade or down near the turkey leg stand. :)

Thanks for the info! Enjoy the rest of your trip and thanks for keeping us updated--feels like we are there with you!!

[TigrLvsPooh]

Sitting at SAB pool watching the kids do pool games with Raouf!!! :) :) :) It is HOT and sunny!!!! Hooray!!!! ;)

[jeremysdisneymom]

Sitting at SAB pool watching the kids do pool games with Raouf!!! :) :) :) It is HOT and sunny!!!! Hooray!!!! ;)

:love:Loving the live report! Do you like SAB?

Erika

[brergnat]

Sitting at SAB pool watching the kids do pool games with Raouf!!! :) :) :) It is HOT and sunny!!!! Hooray!!!! ;)

Glad to hear it FEELS "hot". It's only 68 degrees there today. ;) I guess the sunshine makes it feel warmer! Good to know!!! :banana:

[TigrLvsPooh]

its gotta be warmer than 68, I am sunburned!! ;) The pool was really hopping today, not many empty chairs. I'd say it easily felt like high 70's once you got in the direct sun. Definitely warm enough for swimming. :thumbsup2

We had the Pooh breakfast this morning at Crystal Palace, the bus was waiting for us when we walked down and we got there in perfect time. It was nice getting in ahead of the rush. We stopped for a quick pic on Main Street. :goodvibes

Breakfast was great, man I love that deep fried french toast, and the mickey shaped chocolate chip pancake made to order. Yummmm :lovestruc

After breakfast we hit a few rides we missed the other night, crowds were moderate. I'd say most rides were 15, 20, 30 minutes on average. Space Mountain was 60 when we left the park at 1:00 PM. That was the longest wait I saw.

We spent the whole afternoon at the pool. My oldest DS won Bingo, and youngest DS came in 3rd place for Musical Stars. ;)

We are trying to figure out what we want to do tonight. I'm in the mood to go to DTD, we haven't been there yet. MK and Studios are both open until 10:00 PM.

Pics from today will come soon!!!! :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

:love:Loving the live report! Do you like SAB?

Erika

We love it! :) I think its definitely our favorite pool on property. My youngest loves building in the sand, and both boys love the slide and the little whirlpool area. They always have really fun games in the afternoons... hula hoop contests, water volleyball, Bingo, etc, and the pool is so huge you never feel like people are too close. Sometimes finding chairs can be difficult, but I'm happy sitting on the edge of the pool with my legs hanging in. ;) The other pools on property feel like regular pools, SAB feels more like a water park.

[TigrLvsPooh]

Hey guys! Love reading this thread, I love to close my eyes and pretend I'm there. Only 6 more weeks and I won't have to pretend!:cool1: Anyway, glad you're all having fun. I have a couple of info requests for you if you don't mind. If you're in Epcot WS at all can you get an idea of the cost to do the pick a pearl in Japan. I want to do this for myself, my DD4 and a gift for my mother. I'm thinking we would all get some kind of necklace but have no idea how much to budget for it. Any info or pics of choices would be super helpful. And can you keep an eye out for the characters you see as you go? I'm making autograph books for our May trip and am curious who you are seeing. TIA and have fun for all of us stuck at home right now!:laughing:


We will be back over to Epcot tomorrow night for dinner so I will run into Japan and check. :)

Characters we've seen.... lets see... at Epcot we saw meet and greets with Mary Poppins and Alice in Wonderland at the UK. Belle and the Beast, Snow White, Aladdin and Jasmine, all around the World Showcase. I'll try to keep a list. :)

[beautyqueen]

Can't wait for more photos!

[TigrLvsPooh]

More pictures! :)

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5962.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5974.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5975.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5979.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5984.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5988.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5989.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5995.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_5996.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6000.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6002.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6005.jpg

[TigrLvsPooh]

Checked the Marketplace (beach club) and they did not have whole wheat english muffins, only the regular ones.

[wildcatfan]

Great pics!!! Your boys look like you. It looks like everyone is having a great time. I have to know, where did the black crossbody Mickey bag come from? Too cute!!!:thumbsup2

[disneylissy]

I'm new here. I believe this is my first post, and I just wanted to say I'm really enjoying your live trip report. I have your Travel Channel special saved on my DVR and watch it all the time. I can't believe how much your boys have grown! You have a beautiful family. Thanks for the honest review of the Yacht Club. Have you ever stayed CL at AKL? I would love to do that someday.

[disadventurer]

Hi, again. One more question. Can you let me know where that cute picture of your DS with the UP balloons was taken? TIA:goodvibes:goodvibes

[rksbb]

Love the report. Just what I needed to read on my packing break...we leave Friday!!! Can't hardly wait.. :cool1:

[TigrLvsPooh]

Great pics!!! Your boys look like you. It looks like everyone is having a great time. I have to know, where did the black crossbody Mickey bag come from? Too cute!!!:thumbsup2

Isn't that cute?? :) My Mom bought that in Epcot yesterday. It also comes in khaki and white. She got it at the store right as you enter the World Showcase from Future World.

[TigrLvsPooh]

I'm new here. I believe this is my first post, and I just wanted to say I'm really enjoying your live trip report. I have your Travel Channel special saved on my DVR and watch it all the time. I can't believe how much your boys have grown! You have a beautiful family. Thanks for the honest review of the Yacht Club. Have you ever stayed CL at AKL? I would love to do that someday.

AKL CL is one of my favorites. We've done it twice, once in a savannah view bunkbed room, then again in a one bedroom villa. Both times the CL staff and food offerings were amazing. They went above and beyond to make us feel special. The kids got all kinds of special treats the first time we went, and then the second time (dh and I's 10th anniversary - the trip report is linked on page 1) they gave us really cool gifts. :) The only downside is the lack of nightlife or things to do around the resort, other than that it's one of my favorites.

I'm glad you liked our show :) we had so much fun making it, sometimes it's impossible to believe it has been six years!!!

[TigrLvsPooh]

Hi, again. One more question. Can you let me know where that cute picture of your DS with the UP balloons was taken? TIA:goodvibes:goodvibes

There is a meet and greet with the characters from UP inside the Animation area at Hollywood Studios. When we were there (EMHs) the characters were already gone for the day, but we went ahead and let DS take a pic with the set. :) It LOVES that movie. We are going to try and get over there again to see Doug. ;)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Love the report. Just what I needed to read on my packing break...we leave Friday!!! Can't hardly wait.. :cool1:

Pack a little bit of everything. We've had warm days and cold nights. I regret I only brought one pair of pants and two sweatshirts. ;)

[heaven2dc]

I have a question that maybe you can answer from your experience staying at the Boardwalk. My DS27 will be arriving at the hotel around 6 p.m. flying in from California on 11/28/10 (the first day of our trip) and the rest of us will be arriving around noon. I know it's a long time away but we were all trying to figure where to go our first day when he arrives. This will be many of the kids' first trip and he hasn't been to WDW since 1997 when he was 15. I wanted to go to Epcot (someplace close) so we could enjoy the afternoon and have lunch and then when he arrives, have dinner at Teppan Edo around 7:30 pm and then watch Illuminations. A couple of my kids suggested going to Epcot in the afternoon and after he arrives, head over to HS to eat at Mama Melrose's and then hit some rides since HS usually stays open til 11 pm in the past couple of years. I'm trying SO hard not to plan each day but I sort of have to to take in the parks late at night or EMH. I want everyone to have a great time and see as much as they can in the 6 days we'll be there. Has it been easier for you to just go with the flow? (I should insert here that he is a vegan so not sure what he can eat at Teppan Edo besides vegetables and Mama Melrose's has a couple of items on the menu I know he would like)

[scottmel]

Epcot Pearl Suggestion
To the person that posted earlier about the epcot pearl..We did it last summer and it was priced about 17 if I recall correctly. What I did though for THIS trip this summer was buy a PEARL CAGE on ebay. Super cute, found DD a frog one and includes a chain and I got myself a sterling silver one that is a key with a chain. I think they were around 6 and 10 each? So when we get the pearl this summer I will bring them with me and pop the pearl into our cages and put on the necklaces.Just a thought - cheap too!:goodvibes

[disadventurer]

There is a meet and greet with the characters from UP inside the Animation area at Hollywood Studios. When we were there (EMHs) the characters were already gone for the day, but we went ahead and let DS take a pic with the set. :) It LOVES that movie. We are going to try and get over there again to see Doug. ;)

This is my DD17 favorite movie (at this very minute) and she just loves Doug. DS14 and DD17 know quite a few lines from the movie and this is the dinner conversation.

Once again, thanks and enjoy your day. Looking forward to more, more, more.:yay::yay:

[GOLFDISNEY72]

Just read the report and jumping in. We had the show you were on recorded on our dvr and it was our favorite special we had. Had is the key word. On our last trip to Disney last month I did not check future recordings and it ran out of room. The special got erased. I know my wife will be happy that I found this report. Have fun.

[TigrLvsPooh]

Good Morning and HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!! :cool1:

We are having a fantastic trip, after spending the day at SAB yesterday we decided to hit DTD. Youngest DS bought a Lego set and our oldest DS got an Airzooka. Today the sun is shining and it looks to be beautiful! :goodvibes High today 77, local news said it will be the most beautiful day so far this year for central Florida, HOORAY!!!!!!!! :woohoo:

We just had breakfast in the lounge and I have to say I am really tired of the same thing, luckily we had a Pooh breakfast yesterday to break up the monotony. Bread is always banana nut, they always serve cinnamon rolls, the kids have been hoping for donuts one day but none so far. They've been having cereal every morning.

We are headed to AK, then Epcot tonight for Le Cellier and Illuminations. :lovestruc

[TigrLvsPooh]

I have a question that maybe you can answer from your experience staying at the Boardwalk. My DS27 will be arriving at the hotel around 6 p.m. flying in from California on 11/28/10 (the first day of our trip) and the rest of us will be arriving around noon. I know it's a long time away but we were all trying to figure where to go our first day when he arrives. This will be many of the kids' first trip and he hasn't been to WDW since 1997 when he was 15. I wanted to go to Epcot (someplace close) so we could enjoy the afternoon and have lunch and then when he arrives, have dinner at Teppan Edo around 7:30 pm and then watch Illuminations. A couple of my kids suggested going to Epcot in the afternoon and after he arrives, head over to HS to eat at Mama Melrose's and then hit some rides since HS usually stays open til 11 pm in the past couple of years. I'm trying SO hard not to plan each day but I sort of have to to take in the parks late at night or EMH. I want everyone to have a great time and see as much as they can in the 6 days we'll be there. Has it been easier for you to just go with the flow? (I should insert here that he is a vegan so not sure what he can eat at Teppan Edo besides vegetables and Mama Melrose's has a couple of items on the menu I know he would like)

I'd probably just stick with Epcot. It's in close walking distance to the Boardwalk and since it's your first day you guys will probably be tired. Teppen Edo would be fun, we love it there. I wouldn't count on the Studios being open late until you know for sure. A lot of times they close early. :)

[KristyBDJ]

Epcot Pearl Suggestion
To the person that posted earlier about the epcot pearl..We did it last summer and it was priced about 17 if I recall correctly. What I did though for THIS trip this summer was buy a PEARL CAGE on ebay. Super cute, found DD a frog one and includes a chain and I got myself a sterling silver one that is a key with a chain. I think they were around 6 and 10 each? So when we get the pearl this summer I will bring them with me and pop the pearl into our cages and put on the necklaces.Just a thought - cheap too!:goodvibes

Thanks for the tip about the cages. I'll check that out. How was the quality though?

[KristyBDJ]

the pics. are so cute!:goodvibes That UP set is really neat! TIA for checking things out for me by the way. Oh, and since I had not read any of your previous reports and went back and checked some of them out. Also didn't know of your "celebrity" I had seen that special in the past but went back and watched the whole thing on YouTube!:thumbsup2 I'm jealous of the people who have it saved on their DVR...is it ever on Travel Channel anymore?

[jeremysdisneymom]

:bday: Hope you have a magical day! I am glad you reported that you were getting tired of CL breakfast. We are staying CL in the summer at the Poly and AK. I have one more ressie to make and thought breakfast would be a good idea to break up the constant cereal each morning.

Loving your live report!

Erika

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

Happy Birthday!!!!!
I hope today is extra magical:wizard: Plenty of sunshine, warm weather, short lines, lots of laughter, big hugs from your kids, and fab-u-lous food....not necessarily in that order;)

[jwwi]

Happy Birthday!:flower3::flower3::flower3:

Hope you are having a great day, have loved reading about all your touring. Hope the weather continues to be beautiful.:yay:

[scottmel]

Thanks for the tip about the cages. I'll check that out. How was the quality though?

Honestly for 10.00 - I thought the quality was great! I was actually impressed!

[brergnat]

Checked the Marketplace (beach club) and they did not have whole wheat english muffins, only the regular ones.

Thanks! My kids only eat whole wheat bread/english muffins. I guess I'll pack some in our luggage in case they aren't on board with the CL offerings (my oldest doesn't like muffins, or pastries, or bagels, and he will only eat Golden Grahams cereal). :rolleyes1 The youngest will be ecstatic that he gets to have muffins and fruit for breakfast for a week, though. ;)

[wildcatfan]

princess:Happy Birthday!!!party: I hope you are having a great day. It sounds like the weather is perfect. Sit back and enjoy being Princess of the day.princess: Thanks for all the updates, and the info on the crossbody bag. I will have to check it out.

[TigrLvsPooh]

Hey Everyone!!!!!!!!!! :)

My birthday has been a whirlwind of FUN!! :thumbsup2 We spent the day at AK, did the safari, EE, Dinosaur, Tri. Spin, ate lunch at Yak and Yeti, the weather was GORGEOUS and the crowds were managable. :goodvibes We came back to YC around 2:00 PM to rest, well I thought I was going to rest but ended up doing laundry. Five days worth of dirty clothes for 4 people can REALLY add up. So laundry on my birthday, LOL, not exactly fun but it was needed. ;)

We ended up canceling Le Cellier and doing California Grill instead. WOW, what an amazing meal!!!! :cloud9: We had a wonderful bottle of wine, sushi appetizers, then the filet for dinner, oh, and they surprised me with a free dessert!! YUMMMMM :lovestruc We had a window table for WISHES which made for a perfect birthday meal. :woohoo: It was soooo awesome you guys. :)

TONS of pictures coming, but for now I am exhausted!

Tomorrow morning Epcot! Only three days left!!! :guilty:

Oh, almost forgot, I went down and got the list of movies playing on the beach:

Sunday: Herbie Fully Loaded
Monday: Fox and the Hound
Tuesday: Finding Nemo
Wednesday: Bedtime Stories
Thursday: Enchanted
Friday: Mystery Movie Night
Saturday: The Princess and the Frog

Oh, I just remembered about the snack credit info, I will have to get that tomorrow.

Anything else I can research for anyone???

Goodnight!!!! :wizard:

[DisneyDarlings]

Belated Birthday Wishes to you! It sounds like you had an awesome day. So glad the weather got better. Enjoy the next three days and keep the updates coming!

[Disneymama5816]

Happy Belated Birthday!!! Love your report!! Glad you are having a great time.:goodvibes

[aprilisis]

Happy belated birthday! :bday: I'm glad you liked California Grill. It is always a "must-do" on every trip I make to WDW.

[sedun]

Thanks for checking on the movies! Glad you enjoyed the California Grill. Happy Belated birthday!!!

[ReneeDisney]

Happy Belated Birthday! I'm enjoying your live trip report! Thanks for sharing!!!

[cydisney]

cant wait to see some more pictures!

[TigrLvsPooh]

Greeting everyone!!! :)

I feel like we are on "cram everything in as fast as you can" mode now. ;) So we haven't been taking as many breaks. This morning we hit Epcot early and did Soarin, Nemo, Turtle Talk, Spaceship Earth, Ellen, Mission Space, Mexico ride, and Maelstrom. We ate lunch at the Seasons food court inside the Land. It is a beautiful day!!! :) Warm weather, sunshine, and not too crowded. I heard in the lounge someone saying that MK was packed today. So i guess we lucked out. We just came back for snacks in the lounge and we are now headed to the Studios for Fantasmic (haven't seen it yet this trip) then to the ESPN Club to watch the Kentucky game.

Tomorrow is our last full day! :sad1::sad1::sad1::sad1: It is supposed to rain and storm so I'm not sure what we'll accomplish. We'd like to get back to MK again if we can, then we've got dinner scheduled at Coral Reef. But I guess we'll just have to see how it goes. There aren't any EMH tonight, but tomorrow night Epcot is open til midnight.


Sorry I didn't get the pics up today! I will work on that! :)

Any questions?????

(((note to anyone interested in YC CL, we have had the same food on a rotation every day, so don't have your heart set on eating here to save money or anything)))

[brergnat]

(((note to anyone interested in YC CL, we have had the same food on a rotation every day, so don't have your heart set on eating here to save money or anything)))

Isn't that pretty common at CL lounges? We've stayed CL at a few resorts and it's always the same stuff. Doesn't stop us from eating there for the most part every day. We save quite a bit of money. DH, especially, loves it. He could eat the same thing every day for a month on end. My kids too... ;) I like to change it up a bit, though, but I am USUALLY the only one getting food from elsewhere for dinner, as everyone else is full from the stuff they got at the lounge. :lmao:

Different strokes, I guess. I hear a lot of people complaining that the breakfast is the "same thing every day." But...I eat the "same thing every day" for breakfast at home, and so do my kids, so we don't have a problem with it. The variety of the lounge is WAY better than the cold cereal and milk we have at home daily. ;)

Sounds like you've had an amazing trip! Can't believe it's almost over for you. And, it's almost starting for us.

P.S. I DID manage to get EVERYTHING for our family of four packed into two checked bags. I RULE! (but we probably won't be buying anything there to bring home...no space!)

[Canyon girl]

P.S. I DID manage to get EVERYTHING for our family of four packed into two checked bags. I RULE! (but we probably won't be buying anything there to bring home...no space!)

Wow! That's impressive packing! BTW, you could always buy stuff and ship it home from the convention center. ;)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Hello DIS friends!! :)

We are finally back from a long day, WHEW! :goodvibes Fantasmic was FANTASTIC as always. I got some amazing pictures!!!! It started raining a little bit ago and it's supposed to storm tonight, but the good news is that tomorrow's forecast changed from 50% to 10% chance of rain, YEAH!!!! :cool1: So we are trying to decide now what we want to do on our last day.

Any last questions I can answer for anyone?

Pictures coming next!! :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Isn't that pretty common at CL lounges? We've stayed CL at a few resorts and it's always the same stuff. Doesn't stop us from eating there for the most part every day. We save quite a bit of money. DH, especially, loves it. He could eat the same thing every day for a month on end. My kids too... ;) I like to change it up a bit, though, but I am USUALLY the only one getting food from elsewhere for dinner, as everyone else is full from the stuff they got at the lounge. :lmao:

Different strokes, I guess. I hear a lot of people complaining that the breakfast is the "same thing every day." But...I eat the "same thing every day" for breakfast at home, and so do my kids, so we don't have a problem with it. The variety of the lounge is WAY better than the cold cereal and milk we have at home daily. ;)
[/I]

I agree, but the advice I would give is to people like us who are here for 8 days and who think they'll enjoy breakfast in the lounge every morning, but really it is better if you break it up with at least 1 or 2 breakfasts out just to shake things up a bit. ;) Or if you aren't really a breakfast person then maybe a couple of lunch ADRs.

[TigrLvsPooh]

It's a beautiful day here at Walt Disney World!!! :banana:

We are heading to MK this morning, but first here are pics from Wednesday and Thursday, sorry I'm behind!

Happy Birthday:

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6014.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6021.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6022.jpg

These guys NEVER come out of the water!

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6026.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6029.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6033.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6037.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6040.jpg

[aprilisis]

Awesome photos!!! What kind of camera do you have??

[TigrLvsPooh]

Snacking in the lounge...

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6044.jpg

California Grill.........

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6058.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6064.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6066.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6069.jpg

Epcot yesterday.......

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6073.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6074.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6075.jpg

Maw's first time on Soarin'.......

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6077.jpg

Mission Space.......

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6084.jpg

Mexico........

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6086.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6089.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6090.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6091.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6098.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6102.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6106.jpg

[TigrLvsPooh]

Awesome photos!!! What kind of camera do you have??

Nothing special, just a Canon Powershot, got it at Walmart ;)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Fantasmic last night, a FULL HOUSE! :)

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6108.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6113.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6114.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6120.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6121.jpg

[TigrLvsPooh]

Off to MK!!! :) Last full day!!! :sad1:

[heaven2dc]

Have a fun filled day! Fantasmic sure had a full house. I can't remember - did you have the dinner package? I wanted to ask your opinion since you are there now - on our first day (we arrive 11/28/10) I wanted to go to Epcot which is what I usually do since we will arrive at BWV around 12:30 p.m. My son from CA arrives at the hotel around 6 p.m. I wanted to have dinner at Teppan Edo that night around 7:30 p.m. Do you think with him checking in and getting settled that we would have enough time to walk over to Epcot at a relaxed pace and eat then and then see Illuminations? My other idea is to go to HS and eat at Mama Melrose and hope there's a 9 p.m. or later showing of Fantasmic. My son is a vegan so wanted to make his first night's dinner memorable (he hasn't been back to WDW since 1997).

[wildcatfan]

Thanks for the awesome photos. You have some great shots of Fantasmic, my favorite show of all time. Also, great shot of the safari ride. I hope you have a great last day. :)

[disadventurer]

First, let me say, "HAPPY B BIRTHDAY TO YOU." Looks like you had a wonderful time at California Grill--the cake--looks awesome!! We will try that out one day in April for Colleen's graduation celebration. You made it look even more fun. Thank you!!

Your pictures are just wonderful and you have a lovely family!! I feel like I'm there too!! I really think you all should stay a little longer and just keep reporting back. What are we (on the boards) going to do when you leave? Wouldn't it be great to just extend it--even a little?? I'm sure you wouldn't get any flack from the kids, right??

Enjoy the rest of your trip. I'm staying tuned....:goodvibes:goodvibes

[scottmel]

Hey Erika - did they open the refurbished club lounge while you where there? Is it nice looking? any pics??? I saw the lovely ones from the Pres. Suite but thought maybe you were moving to the regular club lounge at the end of the week....Thanks! :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Hey Erika - did they open the refurbished club lounge while you where there? Is it nice looking? any pics??? I saw the lovely ones from the Pres. Suite but thought maybe you were moving to the regular club lounge at the end of the week....Thanks! :)

The new lounge is open and it is beautiful! :)

Here come the pics.................

[TigrLvsPooh]

The renovated lounge is now open....

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6172.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6173.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6174.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6170.jpg


More coming................

[scottmel]

The renovated lounge is now open....

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6172.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6173.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6174.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6170.jpg


More coming................

Your teasing me Erika!! !:) I can't wait to see more!

[TigrLvsPooh]

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6155.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6157.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6158.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6159.jpg

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http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6169.jpg

[HockeyMomR]

Thank you for posting! Have not been to the lounge in about a year and a half. The refurb looks nice. Ahhh, would love to get back to that place soon. Enjoy the rest of your evening and last day.

Again thanks for sharing live!

[TigrLvsPooh]

Hey Hockeymom :)

The newly refurbished lounge is very nice. We just went down for desserts, my favorite lemon bars again. :goodvibes You can definitely smell the new carpet, and the curtains, valances, and sheers are also all new. Everything is very fresh and nice. I actually prefer it greatly over the Presidential Suite. The chairs are so much more comfortable.

Pics from MK today coming up next................

[scottmel]

Thanks so much, Erika!!! looks lovely!!! ::)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Thanks so much, Erika!!! looks lovely!!! ::)

It is lovely :)

I can't believe this is our last night.... eight nights went by in a FLASH!! Looking back on our stay here it was very nice. Despite a few problems we've enjoyed the YC. If I could change anything I would say...

1. The staff needs to be a bit more interactive with the guests. Staying here eight nights I don't feel like I know anyone except for Betty from Chicago, who was very nice to us. I still never received anything for my birthday, when we stayed at Pop Century for ONE NIGHT last year I got a birthday card, a cake made out of a towel, an autographed picture of Mickey, and a towel animal. I've had nothing here. Which isn't a big deal but it bothers me a little bit just because we paid like thousands of dollars to stay here and someone could just say SOMETHING about it being my birthday.

2. The food could have a little tiny teeny bit more variety. I'm not expecting anything special, or things changing every day. But a little bit more variety would be nice. Compared to AKL, WL, BWI, GF, Poly, etc, I would put YC in last place for food variety. However, I will say that the quality of the food is good, for adults anyway, just the kids selections are lacking. Peanut butter and jelly everyday, they never changed it. I can remember the kids having chicken fingers and other items with the other CL resorts.

We are heading out now :)

More pics coming!!!!

[TigrLvsPooh]

Pictures from today.............


http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6132.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6133.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6134.jpg

the boys got to say ALL ABOARD!!!

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6138.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6140.jpg

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http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6142.jpg

We did the TRIPLE MOUNTAIN WHAMMY TODAY!!!!

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6147.jpg

Princess and the Frog.......

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6151.jpg

[scottmel]

And the million dollar question - would you stay YC CL again? I am one of those weirdo people that don't like when cast members, etc. talk to me very much. I don't like a lot of interaction!!! As much as I loved BWI, some of the CL staff was TOOO chatty!!!! But they were all so sweet, no complaints, but quietness is ok by me! aside from that - would you stay agaIN

[TigrLvsPooh]

Friday night mystery movie.... Old Dogs!!! :)

[Canyon girl]

I have thoroughly enjoyed your report. It looks like you had a wonderful time! If I could ask, did you find it hard to get a seat in the lounge to eat? If you did, about what time was bad? Also, to echo scottmel, would you choose to stay YC CL again?

Thank you!

[momof2minnies]

Nice report Erika, glad you had a great time- have a safe trip home.

Linda

[wildcatfan]

Thanks so much for all the info. I have really enjoyed this week. If you are like me, this is the down side. I always hate leaving WDW. Have a safe trip home!!!

[jwwi]

Your kids look so happy in all the pictures, nothing beats the Disney smile. I have really loved reading all about your trip, thank you for the live report.:lovestruc

[camnhan]

Loved the report...sorry you are heading home today :(
We are doing Crystal Palace for breakfast for the first time on our upcoming trip...can't wait after seeing your pics AND
were did your mom (I am assuming it was your mom) get the purse she has on in the pic in front of the castle???? I LOVE it and want it!!!!
50 LONG days to go till we get there....I am sooooooooooo impatient!!

[BlueSkies]

Erika Just cathching up....

Happy belated birthday!

Another great TR!!! Thanks for posting all about your trip!

The new YC lounge looks beautiful...

Safe travels home...

[Disney Mommy 3]

Hi Erika!! Just found you here!!!! We have stayed at the BC on 3 trips and just fell in love with it!! I love SAB for the kids too--and Beaches & Cream.YUM!! Happy Belated Birthday! Quick question...is there much difference really between the YC/BC? I know the color scheme and all is not the same, but as far as the general feel of the place....ok...off to YouTube to see if I can find you there!

[TigrLvsPooh]

And the million dollar question - would you stay YC CL again? I am one of those weirdo people that don't like when cast members, etc. talk to me very much. I don't like a lot of interaction!!! As much as I loved BWI, some of the CL staff was TOOO chatty!!!! But they were all so sweet, no complaints, but quietness is ok by me! aside from that - would you stay agaIN

Probably not anytime soon. We like to experience a lot of different resorts so it might take a while before we'll be at YC again. Last night we were thinking it has been a really long time since we've stayed at the WL. Also I am a huge Poly lover. But I'm sure we'll be back to YC at some point down the road. We actually enjoyed our stay more at the end when the regular concierge lounge was open... it was just 3 doors down from our room (5172), which was really nice, and I felt like the staff was much happier or more friendly once it moved down there. I'm wondering now if maybe the temporary lounge was causing stress for them?? Maybe.....

[TigrLvsPooh]

I have thoroughly enjoyed your report. It looks like you had a wonderful time! If I could ask, did you find it hard to get a seat in the lounge to eat? If you did, about what time was bad? Also, to echo scottmel, would you choose to stay YC CL again?

Thank you!

The lounge was definitely most crowded at breakfast. Tables were very hard to find on Saturday and Sunday morning. I'd say the lounge probably seats about 40-50 people, counting all the chairs and the couches. Yesterday morning I had to take my coffee back out to the hallway to sit since everyone was still asleep in our room. But we never had a problem finding seats during afternoon breaks or in the evenings. The balcony has a few chairs too.

[scottmel]

Sounds like you had a magical time and thanks for doing such a nice trip report in progress!I really enjoyed it and never followed a live trip report before. We are YC CL headed this summer and all your gorgeous pictures of thelounge, etc. have me so excited to go. I love the new look of thelounge. Very rich..They lost that dreadful wallpaper from the lounge and replaced it I see. Wish they would take the que and remove it from the rooms!!!! Thanks again, Erika!!:lovestruc

[TigrLvsPooh]

Loved the report...sorry you are heading home today :(
We are doing Crystal Palace for breakfast for the first time on our upcoming trip...can't wait after seeing your pics AND
were did your mom (I am assuming it was your mom) get the purse she has on in the pic in front of the castle???? I LOVE it and want it!!!!
50 LONG days to go till we get there....I am sooooooooooo impatient!!

You will see that style in a bunch of places. They make it in black/white and also khaki/white. You can get the purse in the size she got, or they also have a beach bag/tote size as well. We saw it in Mousegears, the Emporium, and also the Marketplace at AK. They also have matching sandals to go with it. :) My Mom and I did so much shopping we had to carry extra bags on the plane. :lmao:

[TigrLvsPooh]

Hi Erika!! Just found you here!!!! We have stayed at the BC on 3 trips and just fell in love with it!! I love SAB for the kids too--and Beaches & Cream.YUM!! Happy Belated Birthday! Quick question...is there much difference really between the YC/BC? I know the color scheme and all is not the same, but as far as the general feel of the place....ok...off to YouTube to see if I can find you there!

The biggest difference I noticed was not only the color scheme but the people. In the BC lobby (and we were down there several times) you always see a lot of families and kids. Lots of strollers, lots of kids running around. But down at the the YC lobby you see more adults and conventioners mixed in with the families and kids. (and not nearly as many people) I think the biggest reason is because of BCV. With the villas you are more than doubling the amount of people walking around.... and I'd guess most of those people have kids. In the BC lobby you have a lot of people waiting around for Cape May, but in the YC lobby you'll mostly find people using their laptops on the couches or having a drink in the bar. It's much more quiet. I'm sure if they had a buffet or a character meal it would change the atmosphere, but the only restaurants near the lobby are the Captain's Grille and the Yachtsman's Steakhouse, so those aren't really pulling in a lot of children. I don't think the BC even has a lobby bar does it? That makes a big difference in the atmosphere as well.

Also the quiet pool at the YC seemed totally dead compared to the quiet pool at the BC (which we walked past everyday).

The BC bus stop is way more crowded as well. When we would get on the bus at YC we'd always have a seat, but when it pulled around the BC half of the people would always have to stand or wait for the next bus.

Also I did laundry one day. The YC laundry had 4 washers and 8 dryers and all were empty and available. I was able to do all our laundry at once and nobody ever came down during the 2+ hours I was in there. So that was really nice.

So I guess there are really a lot of differences when you break it down. For me, I'd have to vote YC over BC. I don't like crowded, noisy lobby areas, I don't like crowded bus stops, and I prefer the quieter more relaxing feel. If BCV didn't exsist that would make a huge difference in the congestion and crowd at the BC I think.

[TigrLvsPooh]

Sounds like you had a magical time and thanks for doing such a nice trip report in progress!I really enjoyed it and never followed a live trip report before. We are YC CL headed this summer and all your gorgeous pictures of thelounge, etc. have me so excited to go. I love the new look of thelounge. Very rich..They lost that dreadful wallpaper from the lounge and replaced it I see. Wish they would take the que and remove it from the rooms!!!! Thanks again, Erika!!:lovestruc

I agree. I was expecting a total renovation of the rooms but basically all they did was put in the flatscreen tvs (which are analog and have a terrible picture) and change the bedding. The sinks, counters, tub, tile, mirrors, etc, were all the same. If I remember correctly, those rooms were completely overhauled in 2002 right before we stayed there in November 02, so I'd say in a couple of years they'll need more drastic work done.

[TigrLvsPooh]

For our last day at WDW, after we finally got packed and checked-out, we walked over to Epcot. We had about 2 hours to kill before getting on ME. We did some shopping at Mousegears and had lunch at Seasons. I think Seasons is one of the best counter service lunch places in Disney World. :)

Speaking of lunch, here is where we ate for lunch all week:

Seasons (2)
Lotus Blossom Cafe
Yakitori House
Yak and Yeti
El Pirata y el Perico
Captain's Grille
Boulangerie Patisserie

The only breakfast we ate out of the concierge lounge was at Crystal Palace.

Dinners were: ESPN Club (3 times), and California Grill. The other 4 nights we either ate in the concierge lounge or just had snacks in the park. I know one night I had a brownie from the Main Street Bakery and a Dole Whip and called in dinner. :lmao: That was the best part of not doing the Dining Plan this time around. We didn't feel like we had to eat at any certain time or place... and if we wanted to just have snacks then that was OK too.

Next trip on the horizon for the Murphys is Univeral/IOA sometime this summer so I can go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!!!! :wizard:

[MickeyT]

Thanks Erika. Been following daily and imagining the parks as you and your family enjoyed. We are staying BC club level in July and thinking maybe we should have went YC! (But isn't that we Disney planners always do it. Imagine ourselves at another resort. What keeps us coming back:lovestruc!)

Thanks again Erika!:thumbsup2

[HockeyMomR]

Erika -

Thanks again for sharing!

The YC laundry & quiet pool - two of my best kept secrets. So easy to do laundry at YC, never have I seen it overly busy. Also, YC quiet pool is indeed that...quiet. Great for a break from SAB if looking for a little um quiet. :thumbsup2

Yes, I agree, maybe CMs were a little stressed with temporary location of lounge. We have always been so happy with the CMs at Y&BC, so, this could answer as to why they were not as freindly? But I am sorry to hear they did not recognize your birthday.

Again, so enjoyed your report!!!

[scottmel]

I agree. I was expecting a total renovation of the rooms but basically all they did was put in the flatscreen tvs (which are analog and have a terrible picture) and change the bedding. The sinks, counters, tub, tile, mirrors, etc, were all the same. If I remember correctly, those rooms were completely overhauled in 2002 right before we stayed there in November 02, so I'd say in a couple of years they'll need more drastic work done.

For anyone else reading this, to add on to Erika, new mattresses and new carpeting were put in YC in November 09....I always like to hear these two things as NEW!!! :) They dubbed it a soft makeover - hence walls/ furniture the same but drapery was replaced too I had heard...

[Disney Mommy 3]

The biggest difference I noticed was not only the color scheme but the people. In the BC lobby (and we were down there several times) you always see a lot of families and kids. Lots of strollers, lots of kids running around. But down at the the YC lobby you see more adults and conventioners mixed in with the families and kids. (and not nearly as many people) I think the biggest reason is because of BCV. With the villas you are more than doubling the amount of people walking around.... and I'd guess most of those people have kids. In the BC lobby you have a lot of people waiting around for Cape May, but in the YC lobby you'll mostly find people using their laptops on the couches or having a drink in the bar. It's much more quiet. I'm sure if they had a buffet or a character meal it would change the atmosphere, but the only restaurants near the lobby are the Captain's Grille and the Yachtsman's Steakhouse, so those aren't really pulling in a lot of children. I don't think the BC even has a lobby bar does it? That makes a big difference in the atmosphere as well.

Also the quiet pool at the YC seemed totally dead compared to the quiet pool at the BC (which we walked past everyday).

The BC bus stop is way more crowded as well. When we would get on the bus at YC we'd always have a seat, but when it pulled around the BC half of the people would always have to stand or wait for the next bus.
I have always found that the bus service for the YC/BC was great!! I like the idea of getting on first and not waiting for a seat!
Also I did laundry one day. The YC laundry had 4 washers and 8 dryers and all were empty and available. I was able to do all our laundry at once and nobody ever came down during the 2+ hours I was in there. So that was really nice.
This is a BIG deal for me!!! I have 3 kids, so 5 people changing clothes every day...sometimes twice if the weather changes adds up so quickly!!! I am use to tons of :laundy: here anyway...so I always prepare for that!!!
So I guess there are really a lot of differences when you break it down. For me, I'd have to vote YC over BC. I don't like crowded, noisy lobby areas, I don't like crowded bus stops, and I prefer the quieter more relaxing feel. If BCV didn't exsist that would make a huge difference in the congestion and crowd at the BC I think.
Thanks so much!! I appreciate it!

[jwwi]

Thank you Erika for a fun report. I hope you will do a live report of Universal this summer. Does your DH get a discount at Disney since he works for ESPN? I like the food at the ESPN club but not sure I would eat there three nights. Maybe it was because of the NCAA tournament?:confused3

[MickeyT]

Hey Erika,
One more question when you get settled back in. (I hate the week after Disney. I am always saying, 'This time last week I was........').

Could you give us a generic rundown on the club food offerings? We stayed at the Poly last year and even though we didn't make it back every night for the evening offerings it was always a different menu. I have seen posted that they weren't changing out the evening offerings and sticking with same menu every night now at some of the resorts. Wondering how much of that is true and how much is board talk. (Or I misinterpeted!)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Thank you Erika for a fun report. I hope you will do a live report of Universal this summer. Does your DH get a discount at Disney since he works for ESPN? I like the food at the ESPN club but not sure I would eat there three nights. Maybe it was because of the NCAA tournament?:confused3

We hadn't planned on Purdue winning, so we ended up going back twice to watch them play. Then my Mom wanted to watch Kentucky, so we went a third time. Totally not my idea of good food, but we couldn't miss cheering for our teams! ;)

[TigrLvsPooh]

Hey Erika,
One more question when you get settled back in. (I hate the week after Disney. I am always saying, 'This time last week I was........').

Could you give us a generic rundown on the club food offerings? We stayed at the Poly last year and even though we didn't make it back every night for the evening offerings it was always a different menu. I have seen posted that they weren't changing out the evening offerings and sticking with same menu every night now at some of the resorts. Wondering how much of that is true and how much is board talk. (Or I misinterpeted!)

They seemed to rotate the same 6 hot items ... potstickers, duck quesadillas, dumplings, chicken skewers, spring rolls, and bacon wrapped scallops. We were there 8 nights and these were the only 6 things they had, two each night, varying from day to day, starting at 5:00 PM. I much preferred their cold offerings...they just seemed fresher and not deep fried or "frozen-food-like"... those were things like lobster salad (from the Captain's Grille), Broccoli salad, some kind of wild rice salad, cheeses, raw veggies, fruits, crackers, antipasta type meats, olives, etc. The hot aps were just like someone went to Sam's Club and baked a bunch of frozen appetizers, the cold stuff was much, much better. Even the kids joked about the "chicken on a stick" that kept popping up every other night. :lmao: But don't get me wrong, we ate a lot and saved a TON of money on food. We had that one really expensive meal at the Cali Grill (about $300 by the time we had wine, an appetizer, main entrees, and dessert), so we took advantage of the food for sure.

[jeremysdisneymom]

Erika:

I have a question. I read somewhere that if you ask the CL staff will give you bottles of water. While DH likes soda, I not so much. Is that true? We are staying CL for the first time this summer at the Poly and AKL.

Thanks,
Erika

[jwwi]

I can totally understand going to ESPN to watch the games. I love going to watch NFL football, so many games to watch. The tournament sure was exciting this year.

[LouiseUK]

Thanks for such a great report - we are staying at the Yacht Club for 2 weeks in Aug/Sept (not concierge though - :sad2:!), so I'm avidly reading up everything on YC!

[TigrLvsPooh]

Erika:

I have a question. I read somewhere that if you ask the CL staff will give you bottles of water. While DH likes soda, I not so much. Is that true? We are staying CL for the first time this summer at the Poly and AKL.

Thanks,
Erika

No plastic water bottles at the YC. But if you asked for water they would give you a glass liter bottle of Evian to take back to your room. :)

[TigrLvsPooh]

On our last night we walked to the bridge between the BC and the Boardwalk to watch Illuminations... here are some pics:

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6186.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6182.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6181.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6178.jpg

[TigrLvsPooh]

I also took a TON of little video snipets during the week, sadly my slow uploading sprint card can't handle them all, but here is one of walking back to the YC one night and looking over at the boardwalk:

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/th_MVI_6191.jpg (http://s59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/?action=view&current=MVI_6191.flv)

[TigrLvsPooh]

And here are the last few pictures from my camera... walking back from ESPN Club our last night, and then a couple from Epcot on our last day.....

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6188.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6189.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6190.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6193.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/IMG_6196.jpg

[ccgirl]

What a great report. Thank you! I just spent my morning at work reading it all. Needless to say, not a very productive day. I'm so glad you had such a great time. We ate at Cali Grill this past October for our Anniversary dinner and LOVED it. Thanks for your trip report. Oh...I noticed it was LIVE. Was the internet free or did they charge? Thanks again.

[TigrLvsPooh]

Here is another little video snipet of Wishes from the California Grill:

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/th_MVI_6054.jpg (http://s59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20March%202010/?action=view&current=MVI_6054.flv)

[TigrLvsPooh]

What a great report. Thank you! I just spent my morning at work reading it all. Needless to say, not a very productive day. I'm so glad you had such a great time. We ate at Cali Grill this past October for our Anniversary dinner and LOVED it. Thanks for your trip report. Oh...I noticed it was LIVE. Was the internet free or did they charge? Thanks again.

I have a sprint card for my laptop, so I just use that :)

[ccgirl]

Ooohhh...I didn't think of that. I will have to look into it. Thanks for the tip! We are staying at BWV for the first time in May. I see you were able to view the Illuminations from the bridge. Can you see the globe and hear the show as well? Thanks again for answering everyones questions. So nice of you.

[kayleesmom2]

Just wondering if the construction on Cinderella's castle is complete? We leave in 12 days.
Thanks

[camnhan]

You will see that style in a bunch of places. They make it in black/white and also khaki/white. You can get the purse in the size she got, or they also have a beach bag/tote size as well. We saw it in Mousegears, the Emporium, and also the Marketplace at AK. They also have matching sandals to go with it. :) My Mom and I did so much shopping we had to carry extra bags on the plane. :lmao:

I LOVE to shop also and we have friends coming with us for the first 6 days so I am sure we will be doing a little shopping ;)..thanks..my mom just got me one similiar for my bday to take with but I like the one your mom had better...maybe I will buy it with the excuse it is for my DD..she is a purse fanatic!!!

[camnhan]

The Murphys are LIVE!!!!!!!
Yacht Club - garden view concierge
March 19 - 27, 2010

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g293/ekmurphy12/Disney%20World%20May%202008/IMG_0639.jpg

Hello again to all my DIS friends!!! :grouphug: Have you missed us?? ;) I feel like its been way too long since our last trip to WDW, which was in March 2009. Where did the time go? We took a trip to Las Vegas in June 09, then a beach vacation to St. Pete, followed by a week at Universal/IOA in July 09, then a fall vacation to the Smokeys and Dollywood in Oct 09, and now FINALLY we are back ~home sweet home~ to WDW where we belong! :lovestruc As always, we will be coming to you LIVE with regular updates and pics so everyone can travel along with our family to the Happiest Place on Earth :cloud9: So feel free to ask questions, give comments, or just enjoy the ride. We'll be heading out first thing Friday morning, just a little over 3 days from now. For those of you who don't know us you can brush up on our previous LIVE reports here:

OLD KEY WEST/POP: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2120680

CONTEMPORARY/POLY: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1986183

AKL/POLY/OKW: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1897008

BEACH CLUB: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1806020

And inside one of those links is another page of links to older live reports as well as links to our Travel Channel special. :)

OK... so HERE WE GO!!!!!! :cool1:

The Cast:

Brendan - age 38 - Husband, father, and ESPN Radio sports guy.

Erika - age 36 (turning 37 on the trip!) - Wife, mother, and domestic goddess. Not only obsessed with Disney but also all things Twilight and Harry Potter. ;)

Nicholas - age 10 - The videogame addict, future stand-up comedian, loves all the rides, especially MS, TT, and Space Mountain. Starting to get a little bit pre-teen and can sometimes pout or get annoyed with Mom and Dad.

Connor - age 8 - The artistic one, loves all the Kidcot stations, loves any kind of drawing contests at the resorts, loves Small World, Pooh, Buzz, Seas with Nemo, TSM, Dinoland, and the HISTK playground. He is obsessed with Legos and loves to eat. ;)

The Plan:

Arriving late on Friday night (spending first night at Pop Century) then checking-in at YC early Saturday morning for 7 nights garden view concierge. No dining plan this time around, but I made a ADR for each day.

ADRs:

Le Cellier (birthday dinner)
Teppen Edo
Sci-fi
Crystal Palace (Pooh breakfast)
Cape May
Coral Reef
Mamma Melrose

If you have any questions about the resort, our dining, or anything else please go ahead and start posting your questions now and we will get them answered. :wizard:

:banana::banana::banana::banana:

Were is sorcerer Mickey??? I love your picture!!! I have never seen him.

[TigrLvsPooh]

Ooohhh...I didn't think of that. I will have to look into it. Thanks for the tip! We are staying at BWV for the first time in May. I see you were able to view the Illuminations from the bridge. Can you see the globe and hear the show as well? Thanks again for answering everyones questions. So nice of you.

Nope, just the fireworks ;) But if you stand on the bridge leading to France, inside the park, you can see everything.

[TigrLvsPooh]

Just wondering if the construction on Cinderella's castle is complete? We leave in 12 days.
Thanks

They were still working on it when we were there on Friday. The water is all drained out and the "walls" are exposed. My youngest DS said "HEY, that's not even real bricks, its plastic!" :sad2: Poor little guy.

[TigrLvsPooh]

Were is sorcerer Mickey??? I love your picture!!! I have never seen him.

Just go to the Animation Courtyard at Hollywood Studios and either go thru the attraction, or you can enter thru the exit at the Art of Disney, and he is inside there. :) Sometimes the line can get really long, but if you go thru the exit you can sometimes catch the line shorter when people haven't exited the attraction yet. That is also where the UP meet and greet is located. :)

[Dizneydawn]

Just slammed through your whole TR this morning. Thanks so much for all of it!

We are staying CL in October for a few nights as a couples getaway. The other couple we are with is staying at BWV.

We plan on mostly Epcot and a night at Jelly Rolls so the either YCL or BWI CL has availability and is perfect.

Since you have stayed both and YCL is recent...which do you reccomend?

Currently we are at BWICL.

We are DVC members so can always go visit the pool at Boardwalk but cannot in the reverse at YC since it is strictly for guests staying there.

I love the water and have not enjoyed SAB since they made that rule like 10 years ago. In fact have stayed once at BCI, many times at BWV and none at YC or BC.

Neither of us like seafood at all so a few of the hot items we would not do at YC. We are going to enjoy a relaxed time and take advantage of no dining minus one night and just eating as we go.

Anyway - your expertise is appreciated. Like another poster said, Disney lovers make a decision and then spend the next 20 years wondering if it was the right one.

Thanks for your input!

[Checkers]

:)First of all, Erica, Happy Belated Birthday! And what handsome boys you have!! I just found your TR today and with a trip coming up in mid-May at the BCVs with my DH, DD, SIL, 3DGC and niece, her husband & daughter and then my DH & I will be at the BWVs for the F&WF in Oct., these pictures of the pool and the Boardwalk area were just spectacular. Thank you so much for sharing with us. We (DH & I) have decided not to do the DP in Oct. for just the reasons you stated. Again, thanks for sharing -- loved the pictures!

[hJOYh]

I love your trip report and I am only 4 pages in!:lovestruc

[TigrLvsPooh]

Just slammed through your whole TR this morning. Thanks so much for all of it!

We are staying CL in October for a few nights as a couples getaway. The other couple we are with is staying at BWV.

We plan on mostly Epcot and a night at Jelly Rolls so the either YCL or BWI CL has availability and is perfect.

Since you have stayed both and YCL is recent...which do you reccomend?

Currently we are at BWICL.

We are DVC members so can always go visit the pool at Boardwalk but cannot in the reverse at YC since it is strictly for guests staying there.

I love the water and have not enjoyed SAB since they made that rule like 10 years ago. In fact have stayed once at BCI, many times at BWV and none at YC or BC.

Neither of us like seafood at all so a few of the hot items we would not do at YC. We are going to enjoy a relaxed time and take advantage of no dining minus one night and just eating as we go.

Anyway - your expertise is appreciated. Like another poster said, Disney lovers make a decision and then spend the next 20 years wondering if it was the right one.

Thanks for your input!

Since you aren't interested in using SAB I would go with BWI CL. :)

[Redbudlover]

subscribing!

[Dizneydawn]

Since you aren't interested in using SAB I would go with BWI CL. :)

UGH!!! Trying to be careful and I totally see why you took it that way. :goodvibes

No - I meant that because you cannot go to SAB unless you are staying there, you cannot enjoy it and we have never stayed there so alas - no SAB for me in 10 years!!

I love the way the SAB looks and love the water...we plan on spending quite a bit of time at the resort where ever we stay.

Concerned about how far the walk is to and from BWI CL. Is it handy to get drinks often?

Sorry for the confusion!:worship:

[DREAMS161]

...just found your report & enjoyed it so much! (happy belated bday!!!!) We are headed to GF on may 15 and I am getting so excited! Your report definitely put me in the Disney mindframe. One question came to mind: we have never eaten at California Grill...is there a best time to try to catch Wishes during the meal? Since this is so late in the game to try for this reservation is this something the concierge itinerary office can "help" me with?

So happy you had a good trip and your photos are great :)

Thank you for sharing!

[TigrLvsPooh]

UGH!!! Trying to be careful and I totally see why you took it that way. :goodvibes

No - I meant that because you cannot go to SAB unless you are staying there, you cannot enjoy it and we have never stayed there so alas - no SAB for me in 10 years!!

I love the way the SAB looks and love the water...we plan on spending quite a bit of time at the resort where ever we stay.

Concerned about how far the walk is to and from BWI CL. Is it handy to get drinks often?

Sorry for the confusion!:worship:

Sorry it has taken me so long to get back with you! I always forget to check back on this live report after the trip is over. :)

You are right, it is a long walk from the BWI CL to the main theme pool. Not handy at all. The distance from the YC CL to the pool is very close, and the bar is on the way. ;) Very easy and quick. :goodvibes

[TigrLvsPooh]

...just found your report & enjoyed it so much! (happy belated bday!!!!) We are headed to GF on may 15 and I am getting so excited! Your report definitely put me in the Disney mindframe. One question came to mind: we have never eaten at California Grill...is there a best time to try to catch Wishes during the meal? Since this is so late in the game to try for this reservation is this something the concierge itinerary office can "help" me with?

So happy you had a good trip and your photos are great :)

Thank you for sharing!

Typically Wishes is at 9:00 pm. You can check the times on the weekly schedule when you check-in at the GF. Our dinner reservation was at 8:00 pm, so we had drinks and appetizers first, then ate our meal after the fireworks ended. It was perfect timing. :) We got in the DAY OF, so we were very lucky. :thumbsup2 If the IPO can't get you in try again after check-in with the staff at the resort. (different group of people, they have pull for extra Pixie Dust) :wizard:

[Vance]

Boating in general is a really fun thing to do as far as recreational activities go. A lot of the clubs available right online allow you to buy a membership and use their fleet of boats such as Catalina Yachts. This yacht is one of the most popular yachts and by joining a yacht club will get the opportunity to sail this yacht.

[TigrLvsPooh]

WOW! I can't believe this is on page 1 again! :) I just popped over here to start a new thread... MURPHYS are LIVE AGAIN!!!! :cool1: :thumbsup2 :banana: We arrive this Sunday, and I can't wait!!!!!!!!!!! :dance3: