Pre trip report that will turn live-june 26th-july 10th

[VallCopen]

I attempted a pre trip report last year but it didn't go very well, so I stopped, but I thought I might give it another shot this time.:wizard:

We will be leaving on June 26th and flying into SNA, where we will went a car for the 2 weeks. Happy that I booked our car back in March because we got two weeks in a full size car (with Thrifty) for only 155.20 per week plus tax, which seemed like a very fair rate. Oh yeah, and by we I mean myself DM(40), DH(44), DD(12), DD(3), with other family members arriving at week two.

We will be staying at The Grand Hotel for the first 4 nights in a Downtown Disney View, which we have never done and are very excited.:banana: Then we will be moving into the VGC, in a 2 bedroom dedicated, for the next 10 days. :goodvibes We have only stayed at the VGC one other time, which was last year, and we are excited to go back to what my daughter calls HOME.:love:

We are planning to do some trips up to LA/Hollywood but are not set on exactly what yet, since we have never been. Luckily we have season passes, so we can hit the parks for a few hours, leave for the afternoon when it is hot and then back to the parks for a few hours in the evening. We also haven't done Disney in July in about 7 years so I am a bit scared:scared1: of what that will be like.

We are just getting so excited for this trip. My family loves Disney as do I, it is the one place we can just relax from work and just be kids, who needs to grow up anyway. I will put a few pictures of our last trip up so that I can get a feel for posting, since I have only downloaded on here once or twice. Also I will introduce you to the other family members coming on July 1st for 5 days but I will wait a bit for the introduction since the reason they are coming is due to a heart breaking story.:sad2:

So here go some pictures. Oh and by the way I purchased a notebook, just for this trip, so that I could try and do a LIVE report from the Villa each night.popcorn:: I am not very computer literate so I hope I can manage and figure the wireless thing out when I get there.

Goofy taking our wee one for a walk
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/2009AprilDisneyTrip044.jpg


http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneyTripOctober09150.jpg

View from our Villa last year
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Demi Lovato during the Christmas parade shooting
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneyTripOctober09039.jpg

Us dressed as pirates at the Halloween Party
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/Picture026.jpg

Daughter and Nephew having fun
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Me getting stuck on the ride (VGC)#6 and getting a great score for the day
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My daughters old friend Jack!!!!
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Ok so it looks like I got this down!!!!:cool1::banana::woohoo:

Well I think that is all I will write for tonight. I am not a humerous person, that is left for my hubby, but I promise I will post lots of fun pictures and a lot of information on the WOC and other happenings around the park.

[GoofySon'sMom]

I'm in! :goodvibes We are planning our first trip to DLR so I have been reading as much as I can! We leave 7/24. Would love to read your live report before we go!

[6Smiles]

I'm in. Love your pictures!

[koalagirl5]

:cool1: Count me in too! I will be back home from DLR just before your trip, so I imagine I'll be devouring your live report to help with the withdrawals. :rotfl:

[VallCopen]

Thanks for subscribing... Here are a few more random shots from previous visits.

Nephews first visit to see Mickey
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/Picture078.jpg

Love the Teacups at night
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/Picture005.jpg

Little one that loves the Mickey Death Wheel - Swinging:laughing:
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/Picture183.jpg

San Diego Zoo Visit
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneyTripOctober09088.jpg
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneyTripOctober09122.jpg

[Karenann*]

Hello Vallcopen from a fellow Washingtonian! Grew up in Walla Walla and am in Wenatchee now. We are going to be down there July 3-12!!! Also doing a full Hollywood tour day. Looking forward tio hearing about your plans!

[VallCopen]

Karenann we are little more to the East but not to far from you. Wenatchee is very nice, we go there often. Sounds like you will be there for our second week. I am afraid to go for the 4th but it was the time that my other family from Colorado could meet us. Hope you have a great time.

[mom4princesses]

I'm in, cant wait for the daily updates.

[inluvwithbuzz]

Looking forward to the daily updates! :cool1:

[VallCopen]

I don't want to depress everyone, but I thought I would elaborate a bit on the family that is coming to Disneyland during our stay. It is my cousin, whom I haven't seen in about 10 years, her husband of 2 years, and their 4 children (3 boys are hers and daughter is his) ages 9, 10, 12, 15. This will be their first family trip and we are praying not their last. My cousin lost a baby last year and due to the loss, had some test ran, which made them aware of 4 types of cancer she had. The cancers are Stomach, cervical, uterine and ovarian, with 2 of them stage 4. I don't honestly know if they are all seperate cancers or if one cancer spread to all those areas. Because she had some genes, something like HER gene and BRCA 1&2 she is not able to do common treatments like Chemo and Radiation but is in a study with one of the doctors who developed Tamoxafin (? spelling) so that is good news, since I have heard Tamoxafin is a good cancer med. When she was diagnosed last year they told her she had 6 months to live, but she has beat that time by atleast 5 months, so we are hopeful and praying. She later developed Breast Cancer, but has since beat that one and 2 others (in remission).

At this point she doesn't talk much about where the cancer is and just takes each day with such a positive attitude. She says she doesn't want to miss a day with her boys, since she is limited. She just continues to take her treatments, stay very active with her husband and kids and just loving life. It is to bad we (others) can't live our lives like this because to be honest no one knows the days they are given and anyone of us could be gone tomorrow, cancer or no cancer. I can't imagine how she must feel, especially with her boys since their biological dad is out of the picture. I am sure her new hubby will keep them but we haven't discussed it or even anything about her NOT making it, even though they only gave her months. Prayer, Prayer and more Prayer!!!!:littleangel:

We wanted so bad to get them in a Villa but by the time it was decided they would go, we couldn't get them in any room types. I wait listed until last week, for a 2 bedroom for 4 days, with no luck, so we dropped the waitlist. But they did get into a room at the Grand, standard view, but I am hoping they can get an upgrade, although it may be hard being over the 4th, but whatever they get they will be soooo happy, like I said before this is their first family trip. I am kinda worried about it being soooo busy but they are just so thrilled to go.

Some of our plans are to BBQ a couple nights and then we are taking them to Napa for a quiet dinner one night too. We will be having a birthday party for my 3 year old and their 9 year old daughter on one of our BBQ nights. We have never met her husband either but he seems like an awesome, supportive man. We are having a Limo pick them up from SNA instead of just a van, since it was only 108.00 more total for the round trip transfer (whole family). I thought that was very reasonable to get private fun Limo service that the kids will always remember. I know Disney isn't far from SNA, so the trip will be short, and might be a waste of the extra $$, but I thought it would be fun. They will be at Disney with us for 4 nights, I hope that is long enough, but that was all they could take off from work.

If anyone has any ideas :idea: for a memorable trip or experience please feel free to let me know. I have thought about doing the Fantasmic Seating, and I have also thought about doing a private Cabana, especially since my cousin said she won't be able to do the parks all day and night. But really haven't come up with anything positive yet.

I hope I didn't get anyone to down about their situation, although it is sad, they are soooo upbeat and positive. I know this trip will be great fun, spiritually positive, memorable and just plain heart warming :grouphug: and I am glad we will get to enjoy it with them. Disney Here We Come................

[VallCopen]

So we are down to about 17 days now. I plan on taking my new laptop to work this week to see if I can figure out how to get on line, post and download pics before we leave for the trip.

We have also added 2 days at the beginning of our trip at a hotel that is right by the airport. We thought that it would be fun to take the little one swimming and just get a bit of a head start on our trip. And maybe a pedi or mani for me and my older daughter, but I don't know what the hubby will think of that, but hey a girls got to have nice toes with flip flops. Right? :confused3

My husband is good at drawing so he made countdown pages, starting with day 10, to hang up on the fridge each day for our daughter. Each page is a different Disney Character and says something to the effects of Can't wait to see ya in 10 days partner!!! (that one WOOD be Woody's). I think he did one with Sulley, Jessie, Woody, Nemo, Mike (from Monsties), Pluto, Goofy, Minnie, Buzz, and Pinocchio. I think he is planning on Mickey for the day we leave, but hasn't got that one done yet. I will post each one as those days show up. I told my hubby he should make them more generic, without our girls names, and then I could make copies to send to some Dis people to use for their countdowns.

Hope everyone has a great week!!!!

[GoofySon'sMom]

Just want to say that I think what you and your husband are doing for your cousin and her family is wonderful. I don't have any ideas other than what you posted since we are still a month or so away from our first trip but I think your plans thus far sound wonderful. :cloud9:

I will send prayers and good thoughts your cousins way!

[kaoden39]

I am in. And I am praying for your cousin and her family.

[VallCopen]

Thank you for the prayers. Right now she seems to be doing pretty good so I hope that continues.

Only a couple more weeks left and then the live reports will begin!!!!:cool1: If anyone has any favorites or special things they want to see just let me know and I will do my best to get it posted for you. See ya all on day 10 when I post the first countdown page.;)

[jwwi]

subbing........

My DH and I will be checking into the Grand on the 9th of July, just at the end of your trip. So I hope your live reports will be of help to us.:surfweb: I am a WDW vet but have not been to DL since 1993. I have never stayed close to the park, only one day visits. There seems to be increased information on the dis about WOC as the date draws close for the Grand Opening of the show. Are you going to do any dinner pkgs to get reserved seating?

Prayers to you and your family.

[VallCopen]

jwwi we have never done WDW but can't wait to try in the near future (2-3 years).

I have booked a few dinners so far. First we have 2 dinners planned at Napa Rose. This is our favorite so we always try to do it once. We also have ressies at Steakhouse 55, Naples, Goofy's kitchen and WOC at Ariels Grotto. I wanted to book more dinners but between changing my eating habits (diet) and the cost we decided to call it good. We are unsure about the WOC but for the price I decided to book it and if we want we can always cancel it. It will depend on if we have a good view from our room or not and if we are able to get tickets from the fast pass before our reservation day, but I thought I should atleast book it before they are all gone, in case it is a BIG HIT.;) My daughter really wants to try the Cheesecake Factory, off site @ the Garden Walk, but I am not sure if we will make it or not. Other than that the rest will be left to chance.:upsidedow

[Tikestoublie]

Love the PTR so far and definitely looking forward to the updates. :surfweb:popcorn::

I think being able to take this trip with your cousin and her family is wonderful. I cannot even begin to imagine how much this will mean to all of them. Great memories they will have. Sounds like she is a real trooper. Good to hear. Faith and hope can do miracles. Shall pray for one for all of you.

Enjoy the planning and the trip. Eagerly awaiting details. Going in July and hopefully staying at GCH, though not the Villas - but that's ok. Just being there will be great!

[jwwi]

Not sure if you had a chance to see Good Morning America, Sam Champion was doing a preview of the WOC this morning. Wow, amazing. I wonder if you will be able to watch from somewhere at GCH, I would probably watch each nightpopcorn::. Let me know if you notice an area at the resort that is available. BTW, I will not be staying in the villas, just a standard room.

If you do go to Cheesecake Factory plan on sharing meals, their portion sizes are HUGE. You can always order more food if necessary. So many choices..... I will definitely check out menus for WOC meals, and have wanted to try Napa Rose too. Seems like the prices are high at Napa Rose, but have only heard great things about it. I think we will be at ESPN Zone since we are also on a sports vacation.:lmao:

[VallCopen]

Tikestoublie thank you for the prayers we appreciate them very much. We feel blessed that the Lord has allowed us to take this trip with them. So much fun and so many memories will be made. Anywhere at Disney is Great, but I do think the Grand Hotel is GRAND.

jwwi thank you for the heads up on meals at Cheesecake factory, we are small eaters so we will keep that in mind. I so missed Good Morning America.:sad2: I will let you know if I see anything that looks good outside of the dedicated area. You are going to be there on the 9th right? How long is your trip? HMMM!!! :idea:

[jwwi]

We will be staying 5 nights at the GCH, arriving mid day on the 9th. I will be getting a 5 day pass, but we will have all star events two of the nights. Not sure what pass I will have for DH, he really doesn't think he wants to spend much time at the parks.:confused3 But that won't stop me from spending a little bit of each day checking things out.

[VallCopen]

So it is time for our countdown. These were drawn by my husband, but he did have to look at pictures from DVD's or books to find something to draw. Sorry it is so crumpled this is a copy of the original so that our little one could carry it around and have fun.

I had to skip day 10, which was Sulley, since it had my families names ALL over it. Day nine had our families name on it once, but not as intrusive as day 10, so I just covered our name up.!!!

Day nine and counting!!!!:banana:

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo036.jpg

[VallCopen]

Day 8!!!!! :banana::cool1::banana::cool1:

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/CopyofPictureorVideo037.jpg

[GoofySon'sMom]

Love the pictures! How fun! :thumbsup2

[VallCopen]

jwwi, I just sent you a PM regarding the WOC show.

[VallCopen]

This was not drawn but copied, cut and pasted, no time before work to get a drawing done so this was the next best thing.

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo040.jpg

[VallCopen]

Now I wish I had packed a bit earlier. So many things to do but can't wait to go.

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[Belle Ella]

You'll get it all done :thumbsup2 I have faith in you, lol. I'm a paranoid packer and I always feel like I'll never get it done if I don't start more than a week in advance. But I'm also a little crazy, so who knows. And I felt like todays countdown was just speaking to me (although it's been a long time since anyone called me Jessie, and I'm definitely not a red-head, :rotfl:) so it's fitting that I finally subscribe myself!

Before I forget, there's something else that I want to add. I know that you said you didn't want to depress anyone with what's going on with your cousin, and as heartbreaking as it is I have to say that it's inspiring to hear how she's not just giving up. You're right, it's a shame more people don't live their lives like that. I hope that this trip is nothing short of Magical for all of you!!

Have you thought about looking in to getting a ride on the Lilly Belle if none of you have ever done it again. Being July it probably isn't the best idea during the midday heat but if you look into and they can get you on early enough that could be a great experience!!

[VallCopen]

Thanks for Subscribing....and the wishes for a magical trip.;)

Ohhh what a great idea :idea: with the Lilly Belle. We have wanted to ride it before and that would be a fun experience for all. We can't wait for the trip and my cousin and her kids are just beside themselves about going to Disney.

[kaoden39]

I was packing Saturday night it was down to the last minute.....:thumbsup2

[VallCopen]

Bella Ella I too like to pack early, but the family laughs at me everytime for it. Then when they are all racing to get it done the night before I sit back and laugh.:rotfl2: Thankfully I got all my packing and babies done today.;)

Hi there Kaden39 How was your trip????popcorn:: Hope you had a great time. :thumbsup2

[VallCopen]

So I thought I would give a little more info on the trip and all the people coming to visit. My half brother, whom I have only seen 3 or 4 times ever due to a strained relationship with my biological father, will be getting a room at the Grand for 2 nights during the same time as when our cousin arrives. They too have only seen each other a handful of times ever. My sister-in-law will also be dropping by for 3 days/2nights and staying with us in our 2 bedroom Villa.

My sister-in-law has plans to go to San Diego, with her kids, to visit some of her family and asked if they could come visit us at the end of their trip. She has a 3 year old son (almost 3), and a 5 year old daughter. Her little boy has never been to Disneyland and he is sooooo excited to meet Mickey Mouse.:woohoo: Her daughter went with us in Febuary for a quick 3 day girls trip but is also excited to get to go back already. Her hubby will be staying home since he and my hubby have a business together and everyone can not take off at the same time, especially in the Summer, but I am sure he would prefer to stay home since he is not a Disney fan:confused3, or a fan of people for that matter.

When we went in Feb., one of my bestfriends, who works for us, surprised me, my sister-in-law, and her sister-in-law with a 3 day trip down to Disney, in her Condo. (I know how cool, Right??) But I never got a chance to show them the Villas, so this will be a first for my sister-in-law. Oh and by the way I am returning the favor to my friend in Feb 2011 at the VGC (4 days), which will be a blast, AGAIN!!! :banana: So any how my sister-in-law is excited to experience VGC this time and to see the beauty of staying in the park.

So to wrap it up we have me(40), hubs(43), DD(12 soon to be 13), DD(3), Cousin(40), her hubs(50?), sons(15,12,10), daughter(9), Sister-in-law(35), daughter(5), son(3), Brother(27), and Bro's girlfriend(24). Wow that is a lot of people!!!:scared1:

[GoofySon'sMom]

That is a lot of people! You all will have a blast! :thumbsup2

[VallCopen]

:cool1::cool1::cool1::banana::banana::banana:

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/CopyofPictureorVideo033.jpg

[jwwi]

I just love all your countdown pictures. They are so imaginative and cute. I did see your pm tonight, thank you for taking the time to do that. Your trip is coming up so quickly.:goodvibes

[Belle Ella]

Aw!! Getting so close!!

[VallCopen]

So today I went on line & got parkhoppers for my cousins family. Of course I opted for the 5 day hopper for the price of 3. The tickets will have 1 or 2days left of use, but I figured it was still the best way to go. For ourselves we will be renewing our season passes and upgrading to the Premium this year.:thumbsup2 Of course the only reason we are upgrading is because we are going over the 4th this year and we don't want to be blocked out, but it will be a nice little perk to have the extra discount.

I finally feel like things are starting to come together now. I have most things done and have confirmed all ressies for everyone and it looks like we are in good shape (well not literally but if I did some of these :yay: maybe I would be).

Toy Story 3!!!!popcorn:: Do we wait until Disney or see it this weekend?:confused: It would be fun to see it at Disney but I am afraid if it will be just crazy busy there.:eek: I am hoping that it is not only in :3dglasses because I really don't like them and there is no way my 3 year old will keep those glasses on either.

Well here is day 4!!!!

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo045.jpg

[Belle Ella]

I would see it before you go, just to get you all excited for the trip! I went this morning to see it for the second time (it's amazing) and wow, other than a sold out midnight premiere for Twilight and a Harry Potter movie the auditorium I was in was more packed than I had ever seen it - for the first show! Loved it even more the second time through.

[kaoden39]

I have to tell you I love your count down. It is so cute and creative.

[VallCopen]

So I guess I don't know how to count, or else I am a kid at heart and just want my vacation to come sooner because some how I am a day off on the countdown that is why I didn't post a picture yesturday. So tonight I will be posting day 3, although it is 3 days until we start our trip we won't be at Disney until Saturday.

On a seperate note, I got to thinking, even though it hurts sometimes to think I still did it, and I thought "Why are we spending 1500.00 extra dollars to stay at the Grand for the first 4 nights when I could use my DVC points over at The Disneyland Hotel and not pay out any cash right now?" So I called up and they had some rooms left:banana: I know a lot of DVC owners think it is a waste of points or that the value isn't there, but right now for us it makes more sense to use our points and save our cash.:upsidedow So we booked a premium view @ the Disneyland Hotel and cancelled our Downtown Disney View at the Grand.:rolleyes: Although I was excited to get to try a DD View I think I am more excited to save the $$$$. So now I am hoping to get a remodeled room.:worship: If you are interested in knowing what type of room we get then tune in Saturday????:happytv:

[jwwi]

It should be fun to try two different hotels at DL. The pool at DLH looks amazing, I would only save a couple hundred dollars at DLH, so I am sticking with GCH. Can't wait for your trip to go live, but I am sure you are too:lmao:

Toy Story 3 was so cute, and heartwarming. Go see it before your trip if you have time. I am sure your whole family will love it.:goodvibes

[Karenann*]

We loved DL Hotel when we stayed there in 06. It was a magical time for us. You will be able to enjoy some of it's classic offerings before they are gone forever!:wizard:

[kaoden39]

We walked through the DLH area and it looks like at least one of the towers has been redone. I love the DLH, it is my favorite hotel because of the theming.

[VallCopen]

We had planned on going to see Toy Story 3 on Father's Day but we live about 75 minutes from the big city and when we got done with our dinner it was already 4:00pm so we passed, maybe we will make it on Friday Night.popcorn::

Day 3!!!!

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo044.jpg

[kaoden39]

Wow. I want to live there!!!

[VallCopen]

You want to live 75 minutes from the big city??? Our house is for sale and we live on a lake!!!! Let me know when your ready.:laughing:

Funny thing about here is that most people from Cali or other populated areas are very surprised at how cheap a home is here. Here in the Northwest on a lot of lakes a 3 or 4 bedroom home goes for 250,000 - 500,000 but in the small towns around here they go for about 125,000-250,000. Of course we don't have homes like they do in Cali either.

[kaoden39]

You want to live 75 minutes from the big city??? Our house is for sale and we live on a lake!!!! Let me know when your ready.:laughing:

Funny thing about here is that most people from Cali or other populated areas are very surprised at how cheap a home is here. Here in the Northwest on a lot of lakes a 3 or 4 bedroom home goes for 250,000 - 500,000 but in the small towns around here they go for about 125,000-250,000. Of course we don't have homes like they do in Cali either.

Honestly? If I could I would. I want to retire to the town of McCloud, California that is on the base of Mt Shasta and it is a small town.

[VallCopen]

A Picture of my two daughters from last year with Minnie. Tomorrow is our last day then off we go!!!!!


http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo048.jpg

[kaoden39]

So cute. And so near!!:dance3:

[GoofySon'sMom]

:banana: :cool1: :cheer2: So close!

Love the picture!

[jwwi]

Have a great trip down to DL, hope it goes smoothly. Maybe we will run into each other on the 9th.:cool1:

[VallCopen]

Well I will be signing off for a couple days and hopefully up and running very quickly afterward. Now that we have switched to the Disneyland Hotel I don't know their status on wireless??:confused3 Hopefully I will have it before we move to the Villas. We are so excited and our toddler is just beside herself. :banana:

See you all soon......


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[tripsabc]

I just joined the DIS boards, looking for information before our trip to DL and found your postings. I wish the best for your trip and hope your family has a great time.

Like you, we will be leaving on Saturday flying into SNA and staying at the DL hotel. We are also from Washington, but not near any lakes! We are going to celebrate the triplets birthday, maybe we will see you (doubt it though there will be plenty of people) Anyway, we are ready to go now, but guess we should tell the kids since we have kept it a secret!

Have a great trip!

[Lissame]

We may see you there! We'll be there next week too.

[VallCopen]

So we arrived yesturday at 12:30. Our flight was pretty good with a minor wait at the gates to unload passengers. The Capt. said they would not let the plane park so we had to wait about 20 minutes or so before pulling into our gate. Got our rental car fairly quick with Thrifty and at a great price. Headed down the road without any maps and did get lost for about 10 minutes, but it ended up we weren't that far off course. Stopped by target got a few items we needed for snacking and breakfast and then off we went. Arrived at the hotel at about 2:00 and our room was not ready so we decided to walk around the grounds and get a quick bite at something called Crocs and bites. All was going well until my little one who has been potty trained for 4-5 months decided that now was the time to have an accident.:confused3:headache::headache: Well with no clothes or room what is guy to do????:rolleyes1:rolleyes1 So I ventured over to the hotel front desk to see about the room, since it was now about 3:30. Well the room still wasn't ready. We sat on the grass outside of the Dream Tower, were are room was going to be located and just waited. Then at 4:30 our room was done.:yay::yay::yay:

Well we got into our room and, YAY :woohoo::dance3: we were given our request of a Downtown Disney View/Fireworks View in a remodeled room. The rooms are a pretty decent size and nicely done. Sorry I didn't get a pic of the room but if anyone wants to see it let me know I will take a one, although it won't be as clean and together as when we arrived. But here are a couple shots of our view from the room. And the Fireworks view was great to watch from our room, also liked the nice touch of the piped in music that went with the show.
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010334.jpg
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010333.jpg

We didn't end up going into the parks until about 6:00pm and we had gotten up at 4:00am for our flight that day so we were all tired and crabby.:sad: We rode Pirates, we have to do this one first every trip, then we rode the Carousel, Snow White and then Astro Blasters. We then headed over to the Pavillion and got our pictures taken for our new Premium (first time) passes. We were all tired so we headed back to our room thru DD and picked up a Wetzel Pretzel and some Hagendaz. Here are couple more misc. shots of not much but we were so tired we did n't even take hardly any last night. Sadly we have to work on a bid today here at the park, it was either that or my hubby was going to cancel his flight and come down on Wednesday.:confused3 But I will try and do better on my shots from here on out.

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010084.jpg

Headboard shot in room.

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010329.jpg


My first site of a Disney Kitty
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010048.jpg


Board at about 6-7 pm Saturday June 26th.
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[GoofySon'sMom]

If that cat was about 8-10 pounds heavier, he could be my Tigger! I have to find (or take) a picture of him. I can't believe how much alike they look!

Glad you got the room location you wanted! Can't wait to hear about the rest of your trip (after you've had some much needed rest!)

[kaoden39]

Yay!! I love Croc Bits and Bites. It is so convenient. When we have stayed at the DLH it was nice to get meals and take them back to our room when we were tired. Sorry to hear about the little ones melt down but I understand, all the excitement and everything. Have fun!!

[koalagirl5]

Thank goodness your live reports are starting. :worship: We've been back for about a week and a half, and I feel like an addict going through withdrawals. I'm seriously trying to figure out how to fund another trip right after Thanksgiving. :scared1: Probably won't happen, but I will darn sure try!

Don't forget about those of us waiting to devour your posts each day. :lmao: But most of all, HAVE FUN!!! :thumbsup2

[Karenann*]

I'm here, too! We'll be up at 4am for our 6am flight this Sat, but don't have a park visit planned that day. So glad you love your room. How cool to see and hear the fireworks from there after such a long day!

[VallCopen]

Yay!! I love Croc Bits and Bites. It is so convenient. When we have stayed at the DLH it was nice to get meals and take them back to our room when we were tired. Sorry to hear about the little ones melt down but I understand, all the excitement and everything. Have fun!!

Croc bits and bites, :rotfl:, I knew I didn't have it right with Crocs and bites but it was better than me saying Croc bites, which I almost called it.:rotfl: And it was more like a pour down not a melt down...:rotfl2: But we made it through it all, and I did understand all the excitement, I mean I almost forgot to go too.:lmao: Who wouldn't be excited to be at Disney, come on you can use the potty any time, but Disney that is a different story.

[VallCopen]

Today we had to bid most of the day but we did manage to make the park by 4:30pm. We decided to do California Adventure today since it was late and the parks were busy. We first went to eat, since all we had in the morning was protein bars for some and cereal for others. We went and had sourdough soup bowls, corn dogs and cheese sticks, and yes, I can't believe I forgot the pics of the food, I guess we were just sooooo hungry. It might also be because it is my first trip report and I just don't think about it either, but again I will get better over the next 2 weeks. Anyway we then went to the Mickey Wheel, swinging ofcourse, and the wait time was 20 minutes, although it said 30. Although my 3 year old still loved it, I did detect a bit of hesitation in the love for it a time or two.


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We then headed over to the Carousel for the wee one, which turned into like 5 rounds, but that was ok since it was pretty quick to get on.


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Then we headed over to Mullholland but decided we didn't want to wait 30 minutes for it. Then we headed over to bugs land and rode a few rides with baby before leaving her with my hubby and my older daughter and I going to Tower of Terror, which is one of our favorites. We only had to wait for about 15 minutes which I felt was pretty good since they don't have the fast passes running for it these next few months. Then we met up with hubby and baby to ride Monsters.

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We then decided it was getting late, I think it was 8:00 and we headed out through Grand Cali Hotel and into DD for some dinner. We ended up eating at the Jazz Kitchen and then to Hagen for dessert AGAIN.:rolleyes1:rolleyes1 This is our weakness......We then made it back just in time for some fireworks from the room.


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Well that about wraps it up tonight. Everyone is in bed and wanting me to shut off the lights. I will have to say, and I haven't even got started or worked that hard at it, but these trip reports take some time, kudos to all of you who do it every time or for many many pages.:worship: I might have to skip to everyother night but I will try. :sad2:? Good night.

[VallCopen]

If that cat was about 8-10 pounds heavier, he could be my Tigger! I have to find (or take) a picture of him. I can't believe how much alike they look!

Glad you got the room location you wanted! Can't wait to hear about the rest of your trip (after you've had some much needed rest!)

Post your pic if you can find it. Maybe it is your Tiggers long lost relative, living in Pooh's Corner, from Walt's side ofcourse.:rolleyes:

[disneydreamer74]

Great photos!! Thanks for taking the time to post! My DD3 and I ride the carousels many, many times during our trips. We are gonna try the Mickey Wheel this time and I am excited to be trying something different! Sounds like you are having a great trip so far!!:goodvibes

[GoofySon'sMom]

Post your pic if you can find it. Maybe it is your Tiggers long lost relative, living in Pooh's Corner, from Walt's side ofcourse.:rolleyes:

I just double checked and don't have one of him in photobucket. I will try to do it tonight. :goodvibes

[GoofySon'sMom]

Here is my Tigger. :goodvibes I couldn't find one that really shows his striped tail ...

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii210/vs6191/022_004.jpg

This is a couple of years ago ... he's about 18 pounds now!

[jwwi]

Great start to your live trip report.

[kaoden39]

Love the fireworks from the room. We had that one year and I honestly prefer that to fighting the crowds to get out of the park after wards. I had a giggle at your DD and the look on her face, she was not too sure. You cannot beat the view from the top of Mickey's Fun Wheel can you?

Did you,like Ralph Brennan's?

[VallCopen]

What a pretty Cat, 18 pounds - Wow that is a small dog.:rotfl:

We liked Ralph Brennans, it was a little out of our taste range, but we were careful on what we ordered. Can't go to wrong with Filet and Chicken. I don't know if we would eat there again or not though.

Last night we had Tortilla Joe's and that was pretty good. Loved the chips and salsa and the Taco's. We tried to go to Toy Story 3 but they didn't have a 7 or 8 showing and 9 was going to be to late for the little one so we went into the parks for a few quick rides. Tried to take the monorail but something happened :confused3 and after they loaded everyone on it they unloaded everyone and then asked all people to exit the platform. It appeared that maybe something had been left in the very back car. They wouldn't open the special code door but kept looking at it and talking, maybe it just wouldn't open but I don't know why they would have exited all people back into Downtown Disney, especially after we had been waiting for awhile. Never did hear what the problem was.

Today we are planning to go back into the parks and then maybe the beach but the weather isn't looking so good.

I have been a little bummed about the amount of people in the park, although I knew it would be crazy. We usually go in April and Oct/Nov and that is just way quieter. But luckily we have 2 weeks here and we will make the best of whatever we do.

Tonight I will try for some food shots since we are doing dinner at Naples.

[GoofySon'sMom]

Tonight I will try for some food shots since we are doing dinner at Naples.

Yes, please! :thumbsup2

We are looking forward to Ralph Brennan's. Not sure if we will make it anywhere else in DTD but you never know if your review would sway us! :upsidedow

[kaoden39]

What a pretty Cat, 18 pounds - Wow that is a small dog.:rotfl:

We liked Ralph Brennans, it was a little out of our taste range, but we were careful on what we ordered. Can't go to wrong with Filet and Chicken. I don't know if we would eat there again or not though.

Last night we had Tortilla Joe's and that was pretty good. Loved the chips and salsa and the Taco's. We tried to go to Toy Story 3 but they didn't have a 7 or 8 showing and 9 was going to be to late for the little one so we went into the parks for a few quick rides. Tried to take the monorail but something happened :confused3 and after they loaded everyone on it they unloaded everyone and then asked all people to exit the platform. It appeared that maybe something had been left in the very back car. They wouldn't open the special code door but kept looking at it and talking, maybe it just wouldn't open but I don't know why they would have exited all people back into Downtown Disney, especially after we had been waiting for awhile. Never did hear what the problem was.

Today we are planning to go back into the parks and then maybe the beach but the weather isn't looking so good.

I have been a little bummed about the amount of people in the park, although I knew it would be crazy. We usually go in April and Oct/Nov and that is just way quieter. But luckily we have 2 weeks here and we will make the best of whatever we do.

Tonight I will try for some food shots since we are doing dinner at Naples.

I think they are having computer problems with the monorail. When we were there a few weeks ago we got on the last monorail for the day. At the time we didn't know. The door on our car kept opening every time the cast member would close it. He said it was gremlins. I do believe they have a big case of gremlins then. Enjoy Naples tonight.

I know the crowds are not fun, but the wonderful thing about staying onsite you can come and go much easier. And the pool at the DLH is so nice to play in and at. Do they still have the second less crowded pool with the beach?

[mommy2allyandaveri]

Great TR so far! Would love to see some food porn :)

[jwwi]

Sounds like I may need to try Tortilla Joe's. Sorry about the monorail problems. I can't imagine if that would happen often at WDW. :scared1: What a nightmare. It seems like it is so easy to move around DL on foot.:cool1: Thanks for taking the time to write updates.

[VallCopen]

OK I am back!!!!:rolleyes1 I have been very busy :laundy: getting settled into the Villas, buying groceries for our big gathering of family, doing laundry and mailing off 7 letters/postcards/brochures to families that I was a fairy Godmailer to, but now that all of those things are done here is what has been happening.

First we went to Naples on Tuesday night, and sorry to let everyone down but we only ordered a pizza since we were somewhat full from snacking during the day. I didn't take a picture because well, it was pizza, but I did get a shot of some of the snacks................

Churro!!!!!!!
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010002.jpg


Tigger Tail!!!!!!!!!
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010026.jpg


Both were good, not my favorites, but good. Tonight we were out buying groceries and unpacking and we just got Taco Bell on the way back, sorry not exciting except to me since dinner only cost us about 7.85 tonight.:banana::banana:. But we do have Napa Rose coming up so be on the watch for that one........popcorn::

I walked over to the Grand this morning so that I could hopefully get a Pier View and they already had me in a Redwood Creek/Grizzly View but they said they could sure check. I was kind of excited for that view since it seemed peacefull and relaxing but with all the family and friends I thought it would be neat to get a pier view if possible so I had them check................Well.............







http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010030.jpg

We were so excited to get this view, and funny thing is that it is the exact room we had back in November last year, see it was meant to be.:love:
So needless to say I was stoked when they came back and told me we got the Pier View, then if that wasn't good enough, I started talking to them about my cousin coming in and telling them that I wanted to be sure to have it put on my card and all other charges too. The CM said to wait just one minute and she went back to THE ROOM again and then came back. She said she had wanted to give them a suite but they were sold out:sad2:, then she said she wanted to give them conceirge(??) but that was booked too at maximum capacity:sad2:, but she then said that she was going to upgrade them from a standard view to a premium view and decorate their room with celebration things.:yay::woohoo::cool1: How cool is that........... They also have them on the same floor as us and just a few doors down from our Villa.:dance3: Now that is just awesome...... Disney Magic happened all around this morning. Thanks Disney!!!!!!!! Now I can't wait for them to get here tomorrow, I hope they love it..........


Other than that we have only been hitting the parks for about 4 or 5 hours a day since it is soooo busy (for us). Everyone has been tired, a lot this time, but I can't figure out why, but we have used the time to rest and sleep in so all is well.

Here are a few more shots around the park which will wrap it up for the night.


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Talk to ya all soon...:wizard:

[Karenann*]

I just think this trip will just bless all your socks off! What a special thing for them to do for your cousin...and so delighted with your view! I am enjoying all the pics too.

[jwwi]

Magic and Pixie Dust to you and your family.:wizard: Congratulations on your room upgrades. With such a long trip maybe 4-5 hours a day in the park is good for your family. Have fun.

[GoofySon'sMom]

:wizard: Yay for Disney upgrading your cousin! What fabulous pixie dust!

[casiland]

Love the picture of the flower arch!!! Good trip review. You are helping to feed my addiction until I can feed it in November.

[kaoden39]

It all sounds wonderful!! And your pictures are great!! You have to love the Disney magic!!

[DizNee Luver]

I don't know how I missed this report!!! I can't believe you mailed out those packages during the middle of your trip!! The kids were thrilled to receive the postcard & autographed photo!!! Thank you again!

Did you draw your countdown pictures?? They were so cute & very well done!! Impressive!

Thanx for updating thru-out your trip.....you have some beautiful pictures!! Makes me even more excited to get there!!

PS: Love the view from your villa......very jealous.....lol!!

[VallCopen]

Ok, so where do I start???? First off thanks for sticking with me soooo far. Things have been busy, crazy, and busy. Everyone is now gone and things hopefully will now mellow a bit but it will take most of the day for us to recover, I am sure.


My cousin and her family arrived on Thursday and were all soooo excited to see we got them a Limo. For anyone wondering we went through Super Shuttle and it was only 122.00 one way for their family of 6 in a strech Limo with beverages and I think light snacks. They had never been in a Limo so that was cool, and the price for the shuttle was only about 50-60 dollars less, so I thought what the heck...... Here they are arriving at the Grand.



http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010003-1.jpg

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So I went to check them in officially and wait what:confused: they don't have an upgrade???? I explained to the gal that the previous morning they upgraded them and said they were going to decorate her room. After 20 minutes of explaining and going back to that ROOM she came back and said "I am sorry you must have miss understood." I didn't want to argue or get upset because after all it wasn't something I paid for so I just said ok but I did try to explain it all again and I told her about giving them my credit card so that her charges went on our card just in case she wasn't understanding right. Then she said let me check something. Then she said, they don't have a credit card of yours on file?????:confused3 Then she said "oh, yes I see, there is another Kelley family that got the upgrade and decorations and, oh my your credit card:eek:". She then went to the back room for 20 minutes, atleast, and then came back and said "Luckily the other Kelley family hasn't arrived and we can still switch it all back around. Wow!!!!! That was crazy and I was so happy that it all got resolved back to what we originally were told.




So we got aquainted the first night and just BBQ'd down at the Villa BBQ's. I cut up chicken, veggies, shrimp, & steak the night before so it was all ready when they arrived and the men then prepared the skewers at the BBQ's and got to know one another. And I must say they did great.:thumbsup2 So then after dinner we had cake to celebrate their 9 year olds birthday and welcome her to our family since we had never met her (she is the new hubbies daughter). After the dinner the kids hit the pools and had a great time.

Friday morning we all took our time getting up and finally made it to the parks around 11:00 am, again here are a few pics.

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The parks have been busy but we have all managed to have a great time walking, visiting, eating and just looking around. We went back to the room around 5:00 to get ready for our Napa dinner, and yes I did get pictures.:eek:

Salmon dish - they loved it....
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010036.jpg

My favorite and main reason I go to Napa - Mushroom Bisque
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010031-1.jpg

Some type of Pea ravioli - it was very good
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010037.jpg

My husbands dinner which was an appetizer for two but he made it his main dish.
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010038.jpg

this rock under the shrimp was soooooo hot
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010039-1.jpg



Dinner was very good and the company was great too, we passed on dessert because we were all full, but my hubby was not happy because he said it is part of going out and my DIS friends would be bummed. Sorry I still passed on it.
My cousins husband is a cut up, one of those funny people who never laughs at his jokes so it makes it that much funnier.:rotfl2: Here are the pictures of dinner.

All of us after dinner
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010043.jpg

Jim acting like he was the waiter
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010035.jpg




Saturday was much of the same, the parks, swimming and then a big (19 people) family dinner at Qutback Steakhouse. My cousins mom, Auntie Lolo, drove 8 hours to see us all and stay one day at Disneyland along with her granddaughter and husband. My brother and his girlfriend also showed up to stay for 2 nights too. So Outbacks was good and we decided to invite all 19 people back to Disney to view the World of Color from our room, good thing we have a 2 bedroom. Funny thing was it was actually not so bad as far as room goes. Some of the guys went and picked up ice cream and brought it back for everyone to eat while enjoying the show, which they were all in awe of. The night didn't end until about 12:45 am when the last guests left, all in all it was a nice night visiting with a lot of family that doesn't get to see one another very often, and it was especially neat for my cousin.


Well Sunday is a whole new chapter which I will try and get back to very soon.

[jwwi]

I am still here and happy to hear your time with family went well. Great pictures of the group too. Your pictures from Napa dinner look so good.

[DizNee Luver]

Ahhhhhh food porn!! :rotfl: Dinner looked very good....we've never been to the Napa Rose but those pics sure make us want to go even more!!

Glad they got the room thing figured out.....I think the gal at the front desk was the one confused!! I imagine your card being used for the "other Kelley family" was indeed your upgrade w/decorations you had previously set up....I think the gal was covering up her misunderstanding....... :confused3 anyways, glad it got taken care of!!

[kaoden39]

Wow. I am sure glad they got the room thing fixed. How terrible is that. I am so glad that you were so persistent about it.

[VallCopen]

If there really was another Kelley family that had my credit card on it could you imagine how magical that would of been for them???
They would be posting on the Dis boards about how this unknown family covered the cost of their hotel stay and it was just soooo magical:wizard:, except it wouldn't have been so magical for me. I too am glad it got figured out.

[kaoden39]

If there really was another Kelley family that had my credit card on it could you imagine how magical that would of been for them???
They would be posting on the Dis boards about how this unknown family covered the cost of their hotel stay and it was just soooo magical:wizard:, except it wouldn't have been so magical for me. I too am glad it got figured out.

Indeed it would have been magical for them, not so much for you though.

[GoofySon'sMom]

Wow, glad they figured out the room/credit card thing!

Love the Napa Rose pics ... will be eating there in 20 days! :cool1:

[VallCopen]

So lets see where did we leave off..... Ahhh yes Sunday. We got up and hit the parks at about noon, ya I know NOON, but hey it is people like us that make the parks so nice for you at 8:00 am, Right? Today my Cousins daughter wasn't feeling so good but everyone thought it was the heat so we kept on moving along. The parks were busy, but I knew they would be but let me tell you it is wayyyyyyy better in November, so from here on out no July for us. We got into the parks and rode one ride when all of a sudden my sister-in-law calls me saying she is at the hotel waiting for me. This girl is never on time, NEVER but sure enough after walking all that way to the park and getting over to Splash, she is on time. So I travel back thru the park and over to the Hotel to get her settled into our condo, which took about 2 1/2 hours.:rolleyes1 But anyway we made it back to the park about 4:30 or so and then the kids wanted to split from the adults so we told them they could. We rode Small World, Buzz, Teacups, Matterhorn and then toured around Toon Town, which was CRAZY Busy :eek:, all in all not bad for about 2 -3 hours.

We then headed back to the Villas to BBQ some dogs and chicken. My cousins daughter fell asleep and when we tried to wake her, she was on fire.:eek: Well not literally but on fire as in :sick:, so most of us decided to not go see the big 4th of July fireworks. My cousin took her boys and went to watch while the rest of us called it a night, or so we thought. At about 10:00 pm we decided that a few of us adults would go get a drink in the Hotel bar and sit in the lobby and visit. It was actually nice to be kid free for awhile and a drink kinda hit the spot. The Lobby was beautiful and the drinks were great. We then went into Downtown Disney and did a little midnight shopping before heading to the room. When we got back my daughter said we had to help her get back at her cousin who had been picking on her all weekend so we agreed. Now just to let you know he kinda looks like Justin Beiber, or wants to anyway, so we decided to do this while he was sleeping:

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I know most of you are probably saying that we were a bit mean, but he really was picking on her and she kept telling him she would get back at him and he would never know it, and he never did know. We were able to get that all done and then I was able to use makeup remover so he never knew what hit him. But when my daughter posts it on facebook and tags him he will find out. Ok now you can say we are mean.popcorn::

So the next moring, Monday, we woke up and OH NO, my daughter has been puking all night and has a bad fever.:sad2: She can't hardly talk and just wants to sleep so my hubby offers to stay in with her since he had some work to do anyway. My sister-in-law, brother, his girlfriend and the 3 babies head for the park. We decided to go to California adventure and go to Bugs Land. Here are a few shots including lunch.

My favorite soup and bread.
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Sister-in-laws son going crazy at the water in Bugs Land
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http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010175.jpg



We then took the kids back for a nap and to see how my daughter was doing. After naps we had ressies at Goofy's Kitchen which is where I will leave you for now. Oh and my daughter is still very sick and just wanting to sleep for now so she skipped on Goofy's.:guilty:

[DizNee Luver]

:lmao: That was good for a laugh.....thanx for sharing those pics!!!! :rotfl2:

So sorry your daughter got sick!!! That's no fun anytime but when you're at Disneyland??

PS: Was that corn dog as burnt as it looked?? I keep hearing how wonderful they are, but they always look over cooked!

[GoofySon'sMom]

See now I would LOVE the burned looking corn dog! :thumbsup2

Awful that your daughter is soooo sick! Hoping to hear that it is a 24 hour thing and she will be better by the next installment!

[kaoden39]

So sorry about your daughter being sick, I so know how being sick on a trip happens.

By the way I love, love, love, the Beiber pictures and I will bet he thinks twice before he picks on her again.:rotfl:

[VallCopen]

Wow how sad am I......:confused3 So much for a LIVE report huh????:confused:

So we are home now, as of last night at about 11:30 pm, but I still am not sure where my camera is for my pictures. I will find it tomorrow so that I can finish my Trip report. My daughter did not get better until Thursday and my hubby came down with the bug on Wednesday, but so far neither me or the baby has got it, but atleast we are home now so if we get sick it will be better.

We never made the Ariels dinner, since the family was sick and because the night before they cancelled all shows due to the earthquake, so I was afraid to spend the money on dinner and then not even get to see a show. Sorry!!!! My hubby was funny though because he freaked out and hid in the closet with the baby during the earthquake, and it really wasn't even much of anything.:lmao: But it was his first experience with a quake and he said he didn't know what to expect so he was playing it safe. Maybe I should have been more concerned.:eek:
But if anyone knows about the dinner and show please let me know, because we already have our next visit booked in November for 6 days in a 2 bedroom and we might try it then.popcorn::

My daughter and I did a last minute dinner at Napa on Thursday night at 9:00 pm, since she missed 3 of our special dinners we had planned, and as soon as I get my camera gathered up I will post those pictures and our Goofy dinner pictures too. Other than that we just kept doing the parks in little spurts, especially since my daughter and husband were sick. It ended up just being me and the baby going in the parks together but it was fun, especially our two 10:30 pm runs to the park at the last minute. That was probably the most fun we had. No one in the parks, a 3 year old very happy and running on overdrive, beautiful evening weather, and a park all lit up.:lovestruc I just love the park at night all lit up. She was such a trooper and she loved running from ride to ride so that we could get as much as possible in before midnight. We got between 7-9 rides in on both nights we did this. I just loved watching all the little ones crashed out in their strollers on their way out while my little one rode on my shoulders with her arms in the air, screaming, like she was on a coaster, while we were going down main street heading into the park.:lmao:

Well I will get pics posted soon and fill you in on any other last details. Thanks for hanging in there on my first trip report, although I have to admit I might leave the reports to those that are more experienced in the future.:rolleyes1

Oh yeah and in case anyone has a Disney Visa and doesn't know about the private Meet and Greet, it is great.... Chip, Dale and Goofy all danced with my daughter for like 5 minutes the other morning and treated her like a little princess. (No other people showed up for about 5-6 minutes) She just loved the attention and time she got alone. I only wish they would put different characters in their from time to time but hey she loves it anyway, everytime we go.:cloud9:

[kaoden39]

Oh I am so sorry that you had the problems with being sick on the trip. How awful. It does look like you got a chance to have special time with your little one in the park and that is great. It is a good thing you have another trip planned this year. I look forward to reading about and seeing the rest of your trip.

[jwwi]

Sorry that your family was sick for part of the vacation. Not all vacations go as planned, but it sounds like you had a lot of fun in spite of everything. I would love to see your pictures when you do finally post them.

I just returned from DL tonight, wow is GCH amazing! I was in heaven.:lovestruc We were upgraded to a view room, in the Vacation Club section.:cool1:, a great king room with couch. I watched WOC every night from our 3rd floor balcony. While I was watching the DL fireworks toward the end of our trip I met a nice couple, they offered to show me the view from the 6th floor viewing area. I also found out that I was able to access the area with my key. I never went back to watch the show, it was just too easy to watch from my balcony in my pj's.:rotfl:

I really enjoyed reading your live TR, it helped to build the excitement for my trip. Thank you for taking the time to write while you were there. We did not do the dinner package for WOC, but did do early entry for FP for resort guests, I do have a few tips if you are interested for your future trip. Just let me know.

[VallCopen]

jwwi, I am so glad you got an upgrade and a WOC view to top it off, how cool..... We sat and watched WOC almost every night from our balconey and loved it..... Any secrets or tips you might have would be greatly appreciated.

Here are some random shots from Goofy's kitchen and around the park.

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo342.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo341.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo338.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo328.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo452.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo441.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo419.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo417.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo403.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo398.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo359.jpg

[VallCopen]

Our last dinner out at Napa Rose.........

I again had the Ravioli and the mushroom bisque soup. I know how boring am I but I just can't mess with a good thing..............

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo371.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo369.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo368.jpg

My daughter had the filet............

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo370.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/PictureorVideo381.jpg


Random shots.....................
http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010051.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010050.jpg

http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac62/VallCopen/DisneySummer2010360.jpg


Well all in all we had a great trip, sick or not, ofcourse I wasn't the one sick so that is easy to say. With being DVC members now I feel like we will always have another chance to go back and do what we missed, God willing, so if we miss something there is always next time. Thanks for sticking with me through this. I am amazed at how much time goes into these trip reports that you all do so for now on I will not take them for granted. Thanks again for tuning in. God bless you all and may you all be blessed with a little magic too.:wizard:

[kaoden39]

That was my thought with the AP. Oh well if I missed anything I will be back. I like the no stress trip.

[DizNee Luver]

Thank you for sharing your trip with us!!! I enjoyed reading it & seeing the pics!!! I'm in single digits now & just can't wait to get there.....in person!!