A Live Report Begins..... [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

scanne

07-14-2010, 06:26 PM

Well after a two hour flight delay, we are finally in Orlando!

Surprise number 1 - Limo ride to Portofino! My kids were so excited! I will add photos when I return home....but my 6 year old DD said "Oh yeah! That's what I'm talking about!" Today is her birthday, too, so this was part of her gift.

So we are in the limo on our way to Universal. We have never stayed at Universal so we are all very excited!!!! More to come!

Thanks for reading. :)

sandym718

07-14-2010, 06:41 PM

So exciting!! I can imagine my 6 y.o. DD saying the same thing!!! Have a great trip, thanks for posting and I'm excited to follow along!

scanne

07-14-2010, 08:51 PM

Portofino is beautiful! We had a great dinner at Trattoria del Porta and our room is located in the east side and we are just steps to the boat to the parks. We explored the beach pool and it's nice - almost like Stormalong Bay just not as big. They have a slide and zero entry and it looks like it's a blast. We are going to swim tomorrow after visiting IOA.

I'm looking forward to butterbeer for breakfast!!!!!

More in the morning.

Sweet Pea UK

07-15-2010, 05:40 AM

Can't wait to read more - we will be at Portofino Bay for 4 nights in just 35 days (not that I'm counting ;) ) Then on to the Grand Floridian for 16 nights!! Your report will get me even more excited and I didn't think that was possible!!

iloveeeyore

07-15-2010, 08:51 AM

Thanks, scanne! More, please!

scanne

07-15-2010, 02:01 PM

Today has been crazy!
We got to IOA at 7:15 this morning and were let in at 7:30. We for in line for Ollivander's first thing and waited about 20 minutes. Got a pumpkin juice (6.25$!) and a fruit cup to hold us until breakfast.

DD6 and I rode FJ. It is like Soarin' x 10000! It is really hard to describe. It is a unique motion experience complete with amazing filmed imagery and in-your-face animatronics. Unreal! My DD was a bit scared and was shaking a bit when we got off the ride, but she was excited that she tried it (but she said she won't go again).

We had breakfast at Three Broomsticks as part of our AAA package. The meal would have cost $50.00 oop so it was a nice inclusion.

We next went to Seussland and rode everything there. We then went to Marvel island and DH and DS7 rode Spiderman. Then we all went on Blutos raft ride AND GOT SOAKED!!!!!!!

We are heading to the pool now then to Universal and back to IOA just to grab a cauldron cake, chocolate
Frog and some other goodies for bedtime treats.

Oh we got pizza and a sandwich from Sal's here at the hotel. One word = $$$$

I can honestly day that I prefer pre-paying for my food at Disney for the dining plans.

More later. We are hoping to get to Bubba Gumps for dinner but we will see how our time goes.

Thanks for reading!

Cotta

07-16-2010, 11:33 AM

We leave in five days!! We are staying at Grand Floridian for four nights and then Royal Pacific for 3! I am wondering if my son will be able to handle FJ... if you don't mind me asking how old your daughter is?

2BusyPlanning

07-16-2010, 01:18 PM

Can't wait to hear all about it! And please post some pics, if possible...you know we LOVE pics! Have a great time :)

scanne

07-16-2010, 04:35 PM

Hey everyone!
Cotta, my DD is 6- just turned 6 on 7/14. She did ride FJ but only once. Just be aware that it's dark in the queue and the ride itself is based more on the scary elements of the Harry Potter stories. But if your son likes thrills and doesn't mind the dark, he may be ok.

Last night we went to Universal and saw Shrek 4D. Then my DS accidentally banged his head into my lip and now I look like Angelina Jolie. LOL!!!

We rode the Woody Woodpecker coaster twice then hoppe back over to IOA. DH rode FJ in the single rider line at 9pm and it was 20 minutes from start to finish. I took the kids on Cat in the Hat and the Caro-Seuss-Sel. Then we went to CityWalk and had a late dinner at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. It was very good, but DS fell asleep and missed his meal.

Today we didn't get as early a start. We got to IOA at 8 and walked right in. DH went straight to FJ and the kids and I rode Cat in the Hat an One Fish Two Fish. Then we met DH and he had gotten me a parent swap card so I got to ride FJ.

We then ride Flight of the Hippogriff 3 times and grabbed a cauldron cake, pumpkin tart, lightening bolt rice krispie treats and chocolate frogs, fudge flies and a few other treats.

DD and I headed back to the hotel to swim and the boys met Spidey in marvel Island.

Now, we have had an enjoyable time, but we cancelled our last night here bs added a room only ressie at the Polynesian for tomorrow night before our package starts on Sunday. So tonight we are going to a character dinner with Shrek and Fiona then back to IOA for another walk through Hogwarts.
Tomorrow we will head to Disney and we will be going to Downtown Disney and we are going to hang out at the pool, too.

So for my family, US/IOA is ok for a couple of days, but my kids aren't ready for big thrills yet. We have had fun, but would rather be at Disney.

More to follow and if you have any questions, please ask.

Echo queen

07-17-2010, 08:32 AM

Love live reports. We are doing 2 nights at US onsite after or 7 nights at WDW.

scanne

07-17-2010, 12:36 PM

I'm back and happy to report that we are "home" at disney's Polynesian Resort!!!! We checked in at 11am and our room was ready and our building request was granted. We are in Tahiti on the first floor with a dead-on view of the castle! I love the patio and room location. We had lunch at Captain Cook's. This meal was OOP because our package starts tomorrow. We asked to be able to stay in the same room and that was granted as well.

Lunch was kids chicken nuggets with jello and a chocolate chip cookie and a chocolate milk for DS, a kids turkey and cheese sandwich with grapes and cookie and diet coke for DD, the aloha pulled pork Sammie and a vitamin water for DH and I got the grilled chicken Caesar salad and water. We shared a plate of Polynesian chips and had dole whip for dessert. Yummy....

DH loves the Polynesian and so do I, so we are thrilled to be here!

A quick comparison for you: food wise, Disney is way ahead of Portofino! Captain Cook's is a prime example of that. We love the casual, quick serve location because there's a good selection and the prices are reasonable and it only took 5 minutes to get our food whereas at Sal's it took 45 minutes for pizza and a sandwich the other day.

Needless to say, we are extremely happy to be on Disney property!

We are going to Downtown Disney at some point this afternoon for our shopping! We might do the movie on the beach tonight at the GF and we are going to MK or Epcot bright and early tomorrow morning.

Oh, one more thing.
There is a TON of Polynesian merchandise in Boutiki! Hats, tees, towels, magnets, coffee mugs, notepads, etc. Very nice selection and I will be getting a new magnet and some other items later in the week.

Questions? Please ask an I will do my best to get you an answer!

Thanks for reading!!

crate1

07-18-2010, 09:32 AM

Love live reports! Thanks so much! The later morning in IOA, how was the wait time for FJ for your husband? Can you keep us posted on what you think of the crowd levels for Disney parks while there? We will be at Universal 20July for 2nts then 6nts at the Poly.:goodvibes

scanne

07-18-2010, 10:41 AM

Hello from Epcot! We got here at 8:00 for morning emh's. Rode Test Track with no wait and Soarin' was 25 minutes. Got fp's also. In line now for the character spot and it's taken 20 minutes to get 2/3 through. We are almost to Mickey....
Weather is nice 89 but a bit muggy. Crowds are typical but manageable with a good plan.
We are going on Soarin' one more time then hopping to MK. More reports later. We are on the DxDp so I'll be posting about our meals as well.

Thanks!

Aristocath

07-18-2010, 02:44 PM

I love live reports! I know what you mean about Universal with younger kids. We are going for one day next month just for the WWoHP.

Good to hear about the Poly merchandise. Have fun!

scanne

07-18-2010, 03:39 PM

Back again with an update.

Today's plans changed up a bit and instead of hopping to MK for lunch we stayed in Epcot because DS needed food pronto! All he had eaten for breakfast (at Seasons) was half a chocolate chip muffin and a small nesquick. So by noon the boy was a cranky mess! DH disagreed with me about DS needing food but I insisted on getting lunch and once he ate some protein, he was his old self. Note to DH - Mommies know best! ;)

So we had a not-so-great QS lunch at Electric Umbrella, but it served it's purpose and we were able to continue with our day.

DS and I rode Soarin' again while DH and DD rode
Nemo and Friends and Journey into Figments imagination. DD then did some splashing around in one of the fountains then we came back to the Polynesian for naps.

We got 2 hour naps and are getting ready for dinner at 'Ohana then evening emh's at Magic Kingdom. I'm really looking forward to MSEP and Summer Nightastic fireworks!!!!

More to come....

scanne

07-18-2010, 07:11 PM

Just finishing our 'Ohana dinner. DH and the kids are doing the hukilau and I'm trying not to eat anymore bread pudding!
We had an awesome sever-CJ- and everything was well-paced and delicious!!!!

I love the bread pudding.....

Mmmm.....

So we are going to MK now. Yay!!!!

Bread pudding is calling....make it stop....

Disney_Jill

07-18-2010, 07:18 PM

I love live trip reports. Sounds like a great trip so far!! I hope you guys have a great night at MK. I wish I was there. :)

scanne

07-18-2010, 07:51 PM

Live! From MK and we are waiting on Main Street for MSEP to start. The weather is beautiful. Warm with a nice breeze and not humid. We have a great spot in front of the confectionary and DH is off getting fastpasses for Buzz Lightyear. We are planning to stay as late as the kids can function for EMH's and since we all had a two hour nap, I am thinking we are good until midnight! :)

I brought glow sticks from home which worked out great because my kids were so excited that I had magical surprises for them and I didn't have to spend a lot of $$$ on a light up toy.

So I think we are in store for a magical night! I am so looking forward to MSEP!!!

More magic to come.....

DisneyMomx7

07-18-2010, 07:54 PM

Sounds like a magical trip!

scanne

07-19-2010, 06:18 AM

Good morning!
So last night was fun, but there was a last minute change to the parade/fireworks line up at MK. We were all set to watch MSEP at 9pm when we found out that they were showing the fireworks at 9 and only one parade at 10. So we quickly made our way as close to the hub as we could. I don't know why this change was made....
The fireworks were great! I love the Pirates section. I was disappointed that Tink didn't fly, though, but hopefully she will on another night.....

After fireworks we rode Buzz then tried to make our way to Frontierland to see if we could get a parade spot. But alas, it was packed like sardines (which I knew would be the case and I was humoring DH) so we decided to play in Fantasyland. We rode IASW then DS and DH went to Mickeys Philharmagic and DD and I stood in line for Peter Pan. The wait was posted at 35 minutes but it was more like 15. We were in and out before the boys were out of Philharmagic!

At this point it was getting close to 11pm but MK jad emh's until 2! So we made our way to Toon Town only to find that it closes at 11 regardless. DD was upset that she didn't get on Barnstormer, but soon perked up when we rode Tomorrowland Transit Authority. She had fun driving and that cheered her up!

We scored fastpasses for Buzz again then did the Laugh Floor. I wanted my DH to be "that guy" but it didn't happen this time. So now it was time for Buzz again then we honored our MK evening emh tradition.....FUNNEL CAKE!!!!! Yes we got a funnel cake and a coke at 12:30am. But I'll tell you, it's just what the kids needed to make it back to the hotel!

Oh, I'm happy to report that a sugar dusted funnel cake IS a snack on the DDP. This is a great use of a snack credit, too!

So we got the monorail as out sugar buzz kept us going and we were back at the Polynesian at 1:00am. We aren't rushing out anywhere today. We have a lunch ressie at Tusker House at 1:05pm so we will be heading to AK later this morning. But everyone needs to catch up on their zzzzz's before we venture out again today.

Thanks for reading!

Cotta

07-19-2010, 09:58 AM

Thanks for the tips on FJ! I am just going to play it by ear and see how it goes... you never know what mood a kid will be in... I am loving the live reports! Thanks!

skorpie

07-19-2010, 11:12 AM

Thanks for your reports! Will be down in early August. So you found that going to Olivanders first and then to FJ is the way to go? We will only be in IOA/WWoHP for one day and hope to do everything in the HP section. Thanks

scanne

07-19-2010, 07:05 PM

July 17th - update with a question!!!

I will update the day later but I have a BiG concern. I was supposed to have a delivery today from WDW Florist and it's not here. And it's not a simple arrangment. It was Mickeys Birthday Surprise. Not here=not happy me. And I checked my confirmation and it was supposed to be set up today between 3 and 5pm.

The florist is closed until tomorrow but should I call the front desk??? What would you do???

Echo queen

07-19-2010, 07:27 PM

It won't hurt to call, go ahead.

Disneymama5816

07-19-2010, 08:11 PM

Definately call. The front desk might have it there and are waiting for someone to deliver it. Also, they might have a "secret" number to call that they can check on it. BTW - loving the live report.:goodvibes

scanne

07-19-2010, 08:42 PM

Ok well I just spoke with one of the managers here at the resort and it turns out the whole celebration was delivered to the wrong room. The guests of that room did call the front desk and returned everything to the front desk. The manager I spoke with is going to come in tomorrow and set it all up himself. He also insisted that I call the florist tomorrow and he said that he thinks I ought to be compensated for the error. I'm not a complainer and I don't make a fuss to get something for nothing, but I will call the florist as soon as they open tomorrow and alert them of the mistake in delivery and see where it goes.

I have to say that the Polynesian CM's I've encountered so far have all been fabulous! And I am certainly not letting this litle hiccup dampen the magic. We are still having a great time!!!

I'll update in another post about our day and I'll keep you posted on the florist situation.

Thanks for reading!!

scanne

07-20-2010, 04:25 AM

July 19
So yesterday we slept late. We never sleep late in Disney but then again, we never had our kids out until 1am, so it's all about balance, right?

So once we got moving at 11am, we got the bus to AK. It was hot and crowded! But we still managed to make the most of our time there. We got FPs for the safari and the kids learned a game with one of the CMs in Harambe. They had a blast playing with her and we spent a good 20 minutes just playing the game. We did some shopping too and had lunch. We had a 2:30 reservation at Tusker Hous which gave us preferred seating to the Nemo musical at 4:45. Tusker House is a great buffet and it's our second time dining there. We will definitely do it on our next trip as well!

We had another great server - Mat - and he brought the kids birthday cupcakes. he was very personable and efficient.

After lunch we went to Dinoland and rode triceratops spin and played some of the carnival games. My kids played two games each and won both times!

We then got our seats for Nemo. This is a fabulous show and I would love to see disney extend it and put it on broadway. I think it would be a huge hit!

After Nemo we all rode Primeval Whirl, we got a Mickey bar and Mickey ice cream sandwich then headed back to the hotel.

We got back around 7:30 and decided to go swimming. My DH was surprised that the pool was still crowded at that time but I wasn't. We swam until 9 and then watched the water pageant from the beach. Then we came back to the room and DH went and got use dinner from Captain Cooks. We ate our dinner in the room while watching the MK fireworks. If you can splurge for the view it is SOOOOOO worth it! I'm completely spoiled now and don't think I will ever book anything less than a lagoon view here at the Polynesian. ;)

So today we are heading back to Epcot and my parents are on their way down to orlando to join us for our last six days. Their flight arrives at MCO at 8:25am so they are meeting us for lunch at Coral Reef at 11:45.

I'll keep you posted on the florist situation as well as more live updates!!! Glad you're all enjoying!!!!

WDW4us2006

07-20-2010, 07:16 AM

Good Morning, I'm loving your live report, we are headed to WDW in three weeks, can't wait......curious to see what happens with the florist!

We are going to 'Ohana for dinner for the first time, how was your meal?

scanne

07-20-2010, 07:35 AM

Thanks, I'm glad you're enjoying the report! 'Ohana was awesome! I love the food and the service was top notch. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it at all!

I spoke with the florist this morning and the CM I spoke with was very upset with what happened. So between the resort manager and the florist, I'm sure they will make things right today. She asked me what other characters my kids like so perhaps a little extra pixie dust will be flying our way...

We are on our way to Epcot now! More reports later!!!

heaven2dc

07-20-2010, 12:37 PM

Thanks for sharing your trip with us! I would love to stay at Poly with lagoon view someday - sounds awesome! I hope you enjoy your day at Epcot and keep us posted on the floral arrangement. Here's some pixie dust to help make your day more magical pixiedust:

scanne

07-20-2010, 05:35 PM

Well I am happy to report that when we returned to our room today, it was decorated to the nines! Disney sure did go out of their way to make up for the error yesterday!

We found the following waiting for us:
A surprise banner on the door
A huge musical balloon when you first walked in.
Two small balloon bouquets.
Two big gift boxes - one for each kid.
Extra gift bags filled with toys and chocolate Mickey rice krispie treats.
An autographed and framed 5x7 color picture of mickey and minnie.
A chocolate birthday cake.
Light up birthday necklaces.
A Tinker Bell doll (like the barbie kind).
Four plush toys: Mickey Minnie Pluto and Goofy
Autograph books for DS and DD personalized with a special note from Mickey and Minnie.

So this was WAY more than I had ordered and my kids were over the moon with excitement!!! It was very well done.

I'll post another update about our day a little later!

anne60

07-20-2010, 06:48 PM

Thanks for posting - we leave tomorrow for a week and I am so excited!! How are the crowds and weather??? We've been in mid-August and mid-June, but never in July.

Thanks again ~ Anne

scanne

07-20-2010, 07:10 PM

July 20th Update

We spent our morning in epcot after a quick breakfast in the room. We rode test track with a very short wait plus got fastpasses for later. We tasted soda from around the world at Club Cool and my DD tasted Beverly. My mom and dad flew in today and we met up with them in epcot. More in a bit....

scanne

07-20-2010, 07:42 PM

Sorry for the abrupt cut off...

So we met up with my parents and did some things in innoventions then had lunch at Coral Reef. Lunch was ok - service was great but the food was just ok.

After lunch we went to WS and met Tiana, Alice and Mary Poppins and then did two Kim Possible missions.

Aristocath

07-20-2010, 08:25 PM

I'm so glad they made up for the mistake with the florist. Sounds like a wonderful surprise for the kids.

Coral Reef is one of our ADRs and I"m just a little unsure about it but I always like to try things out for myself. And I figure the atmosphere will be good even if the food isn't!;)

scanne

07-20-2010, 09:47 PM

After the Kim Possible missions we took a friendship boat across to future world and used our fastpasses to ride Test Track again before heading back to the hotel.

After a 2 hour nap we went to MK for dinner at Crysal Palace.

Quick note about the dining plan. We are doing the DxDp and it is costing us $180.00 a
night four our family of 4. Our lunch today was $120.00 and our dinner was $140.00. So there is a major value for us doing the DxDp. I also spent $25.00 for breakfast using 2 credits plus multiple snacks throughout the day so it is a great value for us! Another note: Coral Reef lets you get slushies or a non alcoholic daiquiri on the deluxe plan.

So after dinner we rode Goofy's Barnstormer 3 times then my parents took the kids on IASW and DH and I rode our favorite - Haunted Mansion! Now we are sitting outside of Hall of Presidents waiting for MSEP to begin! I can't wait!

Tomorrow we are heading to Hollywood Studios. Have a magical evening!!! More reporting to follow!

scanne

07-21-2010, 09:20 AM

July 21st

Hello from Hollywood Studios! We waited stand by for TSM and it took about 25 minutes to get through the queue. We also have fastpasses for it for a little later. We are in the Animation building waiting to meet Lotso bear at 10:30. We are going to get fastpasses for TOT and RnR and for later and we might try the backlot tour, star tours and Indiana Jones.

We are having dinner at Narcoosees tonight and lunch at Sci Fi today. I'm lookin forward to both meals.

We are on the lookout for characters today! I'm hoping we can find Jessie from Roy Story and Daisy Duck.

Thanks for reading!

heaven2dc

07-21-2010, 09:31 AM

The hotel really outdid themselves in making up for the error! How wonderful!

I can just picture all of you waiting for Lotso - this is so cool to have live updates!! I can't wait to hear about SciFi - we only dined there once back in 1997 and I would like to take my 3 boys there this year on our trip (boys meaning 17, 23, & 27 yr olds :rotfl:). It will be the youngest 2's first trip and they are acting like little kids already getting excited and it's still 4 months away!

scanne

07-21-2010, 10:16 AM

Ok you have to meet Lotso. He smells like strawberries!!!!! Seriously!!! Sooooo cool!

So I scored fastpasses for TOT and RnR for this afternoon and DH and the kids are drawing in the animation studio. After this we are going to work our way to the Sci Fi and maybe do some pictures on the speeder bike before lunch.

More to come!

WDW4us2006

07-21-2010, 12:45 PM

So glad you are enjoying your trip, I am living vicariously through you and the other "live reporters", we will be there in just three weeks!!!

I am curious if you were there at rope drop today, and if you were (or weren't) how you managed with TSM. Did you get a FP first then ride? Or vice versa? How long were the FP lines and what time was your FP for?

Loving your details, keep them coming!:)

shelby2001

07-21-2010, 06:38 PM

I'm very much enjoying your reports keep them coming. You are getting me excited for our arrival on Monday for our 12 days stay.

scanne

07-21-2010, 08:55 PM

Just popping in to say that I have some awesome Disney magic - and DH amazingness - to share! Ita going to take a while to post so I will try to update this evening. If I can't this evening, I'll update first thing tomorrow morning!

pirateofthecarolinas

07-22-2010, 06:29 AM

Rise and shine, scanne! Can't wait to hear about the Disney Magic and your DH.

LexiC123

07-22-2010, 06:57 AM

Love your live report...I feel like I'm right there with you!

Hope you and your family continue to have an amazing time. Can't wait to hear about the magic! pixiedust:

scanne

07-22-2010, 09:16 AM

Hi! Sorry for the delay in updates....

So I think I left off at the Studios yesterday. We had a great time and did a lot! ToT, RnR, my DD got to do Jedi training and we all rode Star Tours.

We had a wonderful dinner at Narcoosees last night! The food and service was outstanding and we had a prime view of the lagoon and MK. I had ordered an anniversary cake for my Dh and it did not disappoint. It was a 6 inch almond cake with bavarian cream and fresh strawberries ~ soooooo good!

Then when I got back to the room, I was surprised by my DH who had planned the romance package through Disney Florist. I walked in to rose petals leading the way to the bed that had a heart made out of more rose petals, chocolates, candles and personalized towels plus spa products! I was floored!!!

I'll post tons of pics when I get home next week!

This trip has been sooooo amazing so far!!!

Today we had breakfast at 'ohana and we are going to the pool now, then we are going back to HS for the parade and Fantasmic!

More later!

heaven2dc

07-22-2010, 09:39 AM

How romantic - rose petals! How sweet of your husband and how sweet of you to order that delicious sounding cake!! Sounds like an awesome trip already!

marymac123

07-22-2010, 10:51 AM

What a Great Trip so far!! How was breakfast at Ohona?

scanne

07-22-2010, 02:06 PM

July 22
Today has been our "down time" day that I really hadn't planned for but we all needed. We had a nice breakfast at 'Ohana and then spent the rest of the morning at the pool. Now everyone is just resting (DH is napping) before we go over to the GF again for dinner at the GF Cafe. From there we will be going to MK.

I think I may have to tweak our plans for the rest of the vacation because we want to head back to HS for a few things.

I'm glad everyone is resting now because we have been going nonstop since last Thursday! It's a lot on my kids and they need this time to chill!

I am hoping tonight will be lots of fun!

More tomorrow!

corndog

07-22-2010, 10:37 PM

We are here @ the poly now too. Please forgive my typing on the phone. Checked in on 7/17 and leaving on 7/26.

Crowds @ the poly and at the parks are unlike anything we've ever seen here. It's crazy. We're being turned away from things i've never seen fill up before. 9pm Fantasmic was @ capacity by 7pm!

still having a great time. We only seem to notice the heat @ EPCOT.

iloveeeyore

07-22-2010, 11:19 PM

scanne

07-23-2010, 05:12 AM

Corndog,
I agree with you about the crowds. Crazy! And there are a ton more tour groups than ever.....

Have a plan, everyone!

July 22 update:
So after spending the morning at the pool, we relaxed in the room and then went to the GF Cafe for dinner. Another great meal was had by all! I like the GF Cafe a lot because it has a calm and casual atmosphere and a good menu.

After dinner we went to MK. It was crazy crowded on Main Street because people were lining up for the 9pm parade - and it was only 7!!!

We headed towards Adventureland, DD got to meet Prince Naveen, we rode Aladdins magic carpets, Jungle Cruise, IASW, goofy's barnstormer, Peter pan and philharmagic. We got a lot done in a short time because everyone was lined up for parades and fireworks. It was a nice evening.

This morning we are heading back over to MK for several reasons:
1. I love the opening show and I have to see it on every trip.
2. Characters! My kids love meeting all te characters at MK.
3. Peter Pan - this is DS's new found fave so we want
to get him on the ride a few times.
4. We are having lunch in the castle! :)

More updates to follow, of course. We have three full days left, and I want to make the beat of them!!!

iloveeeyore

07-23-2010, 05:19 AM

Can't wait to read about your lunch in the castle! We're doing that for the first time on our trip!

Sounds like your trip is magical. Thanks for the report.

heaven2dc

07-23-2010, 08:31 AM

It's great getting 2 live reports! Too bad about the crowds but sounds like you are making the best of it. Having a day for relaxation sound like the perfect plan even though you have to veer away from original plans :thumbsup2 Can't wait to hear all about your dinner at the Castle!

shellbelle

07-23-2010, 08:52 AM

Thank you so much for the live trip report! Love it! :love:

Sounds like an amazing vacation. Can't wait to read more.

916chipndale

07-23-2010, 09:12 AM

i am loving your live report. i should be at the poly right now but we had to cancel our trip a week before we left :mad: so your live report is making me feel like i am there.

scanne

07-23-2010, 10:51 AM

I'm walking through Frontierland and want to give a big howdy to y'all!!! We have done so much this morning already! Peter panx2, IASW, tea
Party, barnstormer, potc, space mountain and splash is soon with fp's. Lunch at te castle is at 2:20.

A big hi to my BIL who is lurking and not posting!'n 2012 -
Bro! Bay Lake Tower!!'

heaven2dc

07-23-2010, 12:40 PM

I hope that Hurricane Bonnie doesn't dampen your trip! (no pun intended ;))

Be safe!!

DisD

07-23-2010, 12:46 PM

your bil here, awesome. 2012, I want 2011. later

scanne

07-23-2010, 04:34 PM

Dan, you aren't a lurker anymore!!!! I want 2011 as well, so we will have to work on the spouses!

Today at MK was amazing!!!!!! We did just about everything and had a fantastic lunch at Cinderellas Royal Table. We are napping now before heading to epcot for dinner at Tokyo dining and Illuminations. I cannot
Wait!!!

scanne

07-24-2010, 05:10 AM

So our evening last night went well until we were leaving to go back to the Polynesian. I started to feel really bad - I was sweating a lot even though there was a cool breeze and it was in the low 80's. So we stopped so I could rest. I don't really know what was wrong, per se, but I think it may have been exhaustion. So instead of going back to MK for emh's, we just went to bed.

I'm feeling a little better now, but still not 100%. I'm hoping after a bite to eat and some coffee I feel better.

We are heading back to MK and I'm hoping to get there to see the opening show. We may hop to the studios after a little while in MK and tonight we are going to the HDDR.

Again, I will post more updates throughout the day!

2BusyPlanning

07-24-2010, 08:05 AM

Oh, no! I hope you're feeling better now and that you made it to see the opening of MK. Pretty cute when you happen upon it. Still loving your report!

irgaudin95

07-24-2010, 12:05 PM

subbing!!! I am loving every minute of your live report..:thumbsup2. We leave in 42 days and I think I will do a live report also. I am hoping to get my new phone before we leave and hoping and iphone if not I will have my computer in the room. Thanks for the time that you are spending to give us all the updates..:wave2:

nicky mouse

07-24-2010, 04:28 PM

Thanks for the live report. It's helping me to be even more excited about our up coming trip. Sorry you aren't good. Hopefully you'll feel better soon. Stay extra hydrated.

heaven2dc

07-25-2010, 12:15 AM

We haven't heard from you and hope you are okay! Heat exhaustion coupled with just regular exhaustion on a trip can be really rough - hope you are getting rest and lots of liquids!! :grouphug:

scanne

07-25-2010, 03:55 AM

Hi everyone! Sorry for the lack of updates-every time I tried to post yesterday I got interrupted.

July 24
We got to MK in time to see the opening show, which is one of my favorite Disney traditions. Originally we were going to only stay in MK for a few hours and hop to HS, but that didn't happen.....

First we went straight to the Emporium to take advantage of the 20% off coupon they're printing at counter service locations. These are now good through August 7th...
Then we got breakfast at the Main Street Bakery. Yummy....and much needed since my blood sugar was super low at that point.

Then we tried to get on Winnie the Pooh, but due to a honey spill, it was closed. ;)
We ended up doing so many faves in MK that we just decided to stay there. We did Presidents, Splash, Barnstormer, saw the parade and had a great lunch at Liberty Tree Tavern.

We left after the parade to get ready for the HDDR. My DS truly loves the HDDR and declared it a must-do in every trip!!! It is one of my faves as well, corrny jokes and all.

So I'm up early for two reasons:
1. I want to get to Epcot for morning emh's to ride Soarin' and Test Track and then hop to HS for the Great Movie Ride and Backlot Tour.

2. I want to try to get some sunrise pictures.

So I'll post again later. Today is our last day and we are heading home tomorrow. More updates later!

scanne

07-25-2010, 07:42 AM

Getting on Test Track in a few minutes....it got stuck and we are about to board. We have fastpasses for soarin' and we are going to take the kids on Ellens Energy Adventure and maybe Captain EO before hopping to HS. I'm hoping we can have lunch in WS today. I love the boulangerie patisserie.......

More later!

scanne

07-25-2010, 02:47 PM

Crazy day! We did Epcot then hopped to HS. We rode TT, Soarin', Captain EO, Star Tours, Great Movie Ride, Muppets 3D and saw Block Party Bash!

We are on our way back to the hotel for naps, packing, dinner at Kona Cafe and then we are heading to MK for extra magic hours. This is why naps are critical right now....lol!

Our last day is going great. I'm having a blast but after 13 days in Orlando, I think I am ready for my own bed.

That just means I get to plan another trip, and I think I am going to look at Thanksgiving for 2012. It might be nice to be in WDW when it's cool or even cold!

More later!

mefordis

07-25-2010, 07:08 PM

LOVE the report and cannot wait to see the pictures! :)

scanne

07-25-2010, 07:29 PM

Just finished dinner at Kona and shopping at Boutiki! Heading over to MK for late night fun!!! Hopefully we will get to ride Splash I'd love to do Haunted Mansion and see the parade at 11pm. We shall see how long the kiddie last.

scanne

07-26-2010, 04:50 AM

Good morning. We are getting up early to pack....
:(
Last night was great! We got to MK at 9pm and instead of fighting the crowds that were lined up for the parade and fireworks, we hopped on the train and took it to Toon Town. ;) this worked out awesome!

We rode Barnstormer twice, then rode Winnie the Pooh, IASW and DH and I switched off and we each got to go on our favorite - the Haunted Mansion. Next we went in Splash. The posted wait time was 20 minutes, but it only took 5 to get into our log!

After splashing we got a
Burger at Pecos Bills. Yeah, eating a cheeseburger at midnight isn't the best, but once in a while it's ok.....

After Pecos, we rode
Buzz then bought some treats at the Confectionary and went back to the hotel. We got back at 1am and I'd love to still be sleeping but I have to pack. I'll sleep on the plane....

So I'm going to definitely add pictures and do a food review beginning Tuesday or Wednesday.

Thank you all for following along!!!! Hope you enjoyed!!

heaven2dc

07-26-2010, 08:18 AM

Oh no - the last day!! Thank you SO much for sharing your trip - it has been a blast! :yay: Can't wait for some pics when you get rested after you return home :banana:

bluejasmine

07-26-2010, 09:00 AM

I am loving this review! Cant wait for the pics and WOW gotta love all that WDW magic!

Im so glad to hear WDW came thru for the kids bdays and how romantic, this is EXACTLY what I was looking for on our anniversary night! Planned on doing it myself to suprise DH tho. Candles, roses petals, champagne, and more..

scanne

07-26-2010, 09:22 AM

We are getting ready to say our final Aloha to the Polynesian and WDW for this year. It has been a magical trip and I can't say enough good things about WDW this time. Great cast members throughout, delicious meals, lots of fun - even though it's been super hot and crowded - we made the most of it all!

I'll be posting pictures this week and working on a full blown dining review, complete with pictures and a cost analysis of the DxDP.

Aloha!!!!

bouldertcr

07-26-2010, 03:41 PM

Thank you Scanne for doing a live trip report! It was really enjoyable to be "taken along" with you and your family on your trip. Looking forward to final thoughts, DxDP cost analysis, dining report and pictures!

Disneymaddness

07-26-2010, 09:40 PM

Can't wait for the pictures and your thoughts on the dining plan. Thanks for the report, I loved it!:goodvibes

Echo queen

07-26-2010, 10:17 PM

Great live report, awaiting photos.:rolleyes1

scanne

07-27-2010, 06:13 AM

stnet

07-27-2010, 12:55 PM

Good morning from home....photos are uploading to the computer and I am going to begin my trip and dining reports. Check the trip report board and dining review board later today!

I'm glad so many of you followed along and I hope you find the pics and reviews helpful in your planning!!

Really enjoyed reading your live report!! In fact you have inspired me to do my own live report when we go in a couple of weeks!!!