9/12 great article ! Who am I to say no to going to WDW?
- Thread starter IluvXU
- Start date
IluvXU
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jan 22, 2005
Tuesday, June 23rd
We awoke early to hear/see downpours. Tons of rain... glad we were not headed anywhere early. My parents had decided to go to EPCOT, the rain had ended as the got there, and the got some great rides on Soarin', Test Track, and just enjoyed exploring WS (saw The Voices of Liberty again- three times this trip--- they would adore an EPCOT area resort for just going over to hang out there).
We got up and I dropped the big question- do you want to go and take the DVC tour? DH was game for it, I explained the girls could go to their kid center and I called the extension on the phone. I had watched way too much DVC tv friends--- I was ready to see it all. Remember though I could have done all this at BLT earlier in the week. We called and were connected to the DVC guide in the lobby of CSR. He got us set up for a 10:15 tour, and said to head to the lobby and the van would take us over. They provided carseats for the kids if anyone wonders.
We got over there, checked in the girls, who were excited to have the space to play with toys and probably have a break from us too
We had to keep Luke... he was pretty happy just being held, we did take a stroller though for him. They have drinks, small snacks etc as you wait.
Disclaimer--- they were extremely busy this am, probably due to the early morning rain... and so we waited a bit for a guide. And then they actually sent us on the tour of the two samples with a DVC intern. There was another couple and a couple with three older teenage kids, so we were a party of 10 on this tour. This is not normal, remember this. I cannot remember her name, sorry! We saw AKL and BLT, they are right beside each other at SSR... weird huh. They were fantastic, DH loves the modern touches of BLT, and I loved those rooms too. What really stood out was the size, wow. We then saw a grand villa at SSR. I did not explore upstairs.. I stayed with Luke. Plus it will never happen I would have that amount of points!
We then went back a waited a bit more... again I don't think this is normal. Then they took the 10 of us over to another SSR building, and we went in a big conference room. We were getting the presentation, compact, all together. This was not that impressive to me, and I think looking back I would have been hesitant to do this. However to be honest it did not make or break it for us. We got some numbers, some paper and then Luke had to eat, and well filled his pants, so I had to go and change him--- again another walk to a restroom. The couple with teens stuck around, they were really serious, had lots of questions and wanted to talk one on one. At this point we really were running out of time. Luke would need a nap, the girls had been playing long enough and we wanted to go and swim. Roland, our guide answered a few quick questions and we were off to get our girls, have a quick cone and go back to CSR. The other couple rode back with us to CSR, they had two kids with our girls, and were hoping to do DVC down the road perhaps. We did get FPs for five of us that could be used three times that would give FPs with immediate entry times (however FPs still had to be available... this comes up later)
I don't at all regret the time, I do wish we had met one on one, it would have been nice to talk over our personal information and questions. DH learned a lot, me not so much since I DIS. I also wanted to ask other people about their experiences.... and did this later! We left with the current deals in place through the end of the trip, and told Roland we would be in contact with him later. We wanted to talk and think and think and think......
I did not take my camera, it was enough keeping Luke happy! Soon we were back at CSR, it was closer to one at this point. So I took the girls to the pool, got some lunch there, yes they accept DDP credits, and we ate poolside--- the food stayed hot because it was so hot!
My parents joined us not too much later at the pool... and we swam for about forty five minutes, and then we were off to DHS!
We awoke early to hear/see downpours. Tons of rain... glad we were not headed anywhere early. My parents had decided to go to EPCOT, the rain had ended as the got there, and the got some great rides on Soarin', Test Track, and just enjoyed exploring WS (saw The Voices of Liberty again- three times this trip--- they would adore an EPCOT area resort for just going over to hang out there).
We got up and I dropped the big question- do you want to go and take the DVC tour? DH was game for it, I explained the girls could go to their kid center and I called the extension on the phone. I had watched way too much DVC tv friends--- I was ready to see it all. Remember though I could have done all this at BLT earlier in the week. We called and were connected to the DVC guide in the lobby of CSR. He got us set up for a 10:15 tour, and said to head to the lobby and the van would take us over. They provided carseats for the kids if anyone wonders.
We got over there, checked in the girls, who were excited to have the space to play with toys and probably have a break from us too
We had to keep Luke... he was pretty happy just being held, we did take a stroller though for him. They have drinks, small snacks etc as you wait.
Disclaimer--- they were extremely busy this am, probably due to the early morning rain... and so we waited a bit for a guide. And then they actually sent us on the tour of the two samples with a DVC intern. There was another couple and a couple with three older teenage kids, so we were a party of 10 on this tour. This is not normal, remember this. I cannot remember her name, sorry! We saw AKL and BLT, they are right beside each other at SSR... weird huh. They were fantastic, DH loves the modern touches of BLT, and I loved those rooms too. What really stood out was the size, wow. We then saw a grand villa at SSR. I did not explore upstairs.. I stayed with Luke. Plus it will never happen I would have that amount of points!
We then went back a waited a bit more... again I don't think this is normal. Then they took the 10 of us over to another SSR building, and we went in a big conference room. We were getting the presentation, compact, all together. This was not that impressive to me, and I think looking back I would have been hesitant to do this. However to be honest it did not make or break it for us. We got some numbers, some paper and then Luke had to eat, and well filled his pants, so I had to go and change him--- again another walk to a restroom. The couple with teens stuck around, they were really serious, had lots of questions and wanted to talk one on one. At this point we really were running out of time. Luke would need a nap, the girls had been playing long enough and we wanted to go and swim. Roland, our guide answered a few quick questions and we were off to get our girls, have a quick cone and go back to CSR. The other couple rode back with us to CSR, they had two kids with our girls, and were hoping to do DVC down the road perhaps. We did get FPs for five of us that could be used three times that would give FPs with immediate entry times (however FPs still had to be available... this comes up later)
I don't at all regret the time, I do wish we had met one on one, it would have been nice to talk over our personal information and questions. DH learned a lot, me not so much since I DIS. I also wanted to ask other people about their experiences.... and did this later! We left with the current deals in place through the end of the trip, and told Roland we would be in contact with him later. We wanted to talk and think and think and think......
I did not take my camera, it was enough keeping Luke happy! Soon we were back at CSR, it was closer to one at this point. So I took the girls to the pool, got some lunch there, yes they accept DDP credits, and we ate poolside--- the food stayed hot because it was so hot!
My parents joined us not too much later at the pool... and we swam for about forty five minutes, and then we were off to DHS!
FairyGodmotherJen
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Mar 17, 2007
I think the tour sounds fun, though I don't know that DVC is in our future. I'd love to look at the rooms, though. We stayed at OKW with my parents pre-kids (and thought about doing it for our trip in June, but it's not going to work) and the space was wonderful!! I'd love to have the extra room with five people, though, definitely!
Lady Lallie
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2008
Marc & I want to take the tour next time we go down. It's weird that they did in a big group together but like you said I am sure it was the rainy weather.
IluvXU
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jan 22, 2005
My older DS had the same issue Em had on our 2007 trip - he kept falling asleep at dinner! We have a great pic of Donald trying to wake him up at Chef Mickey's (what an expression on his face when he woke up to Donald two inches from his nose!!) and he even slept through most of the entertainment at 'Ohanas! They just go until they can't anymore, I guess!
Great Epcot day - lots of fun. We will have to try the Donald boat ride in Mexico next summer. I think the kids will like it. We ran out of time last fall. Can't wait to hear about the tour!
Em has one more dinner to sleep through. That is her sleep time, she has slept a bunch this summer around 4ish.
Donald is fun, not the thrilling ride, but fun. Plus I have never seen a real line.
I want some sun... I did get a ton done at school though.
It was fun, I would love to know their percentage that actually buy after touring. I think it was good for DH to hear the information straight from the source, we did do a bunch of reading, talked to friends, etc before committing. I wish we had toured before our DHS day... we could have rode TSM a ton that way!
DH wanted to buy at BLT... in fact he is still "mad" about it.
We like down time, resorts and I know eventually I will be thrilled we did it. I think I need to have a DVC vacation though... next year is a long way away!
I wish we had been more outspoken about wanting one on one. I am sure they would have accomodated us. It was hard with Luke and others, we could have just done it quicker if it was the three of us. If you do the tour, go early in your trip to best use your FPs... the tour and decisions loomed over my head the next two days....
BigEeyore
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Apr 22, 2008
We never did the DVC tour - we bought sight unseen last year, no regrets! (except I didn't get any FP"S...). Two of our neighbors are DVC, we talked to them a bunch, did a ton of online research (this is how I discovered the Dis!), spoke to our guide on the phone, watched the DVD at least 3 times, read the Dream book...etc etc. Anyhow - Welcome Home!!! We love it so far, only regret is not doing it sooner.
wigdoutdismom
Disney Driven in every way.
- Joined
- Jun 25, 2008
We bought sight unseen at Beach Club, then went down and did the tour, and bought Kidani. I really wanted those fast passes...
Trying to get caught up with all I missed while we were gone. I love seeing the great pictures of your smiling kids! All the matching dresses are cute!
Ariel is a favorite of Brooklynn, and we happened to be first in line to see her this trip. It was about ten till 9, and no one was in line yet, so we started a line.
We've done two Crystal Palace dinners, but not a breakfast yet. We will, though!
Glad to hear Hannah has a new love for an old Disney classic.
Back to the room for swimming and naps was pretty much a daily occurrence on this trip for the girls. You lose a lot of park time, but the relaxing is good for everyone. You just have to change you touring style with little ones or it'll be miserable for the whole group. Relaxing wasn't hard to do, either, when we were at the Wilderness Lodge!
Ariel is a favorite of Brooklynn, and we happened to be first in line to see her this trip. It was about ten till 9, and no one was in line yet, so we started a line.
We've done two Crystal Palace dinners, but not a breakfast yet. We will, though!
Glad to hear Hannah has a new love for an old Disney classic.
Back to the room for swimming and naps was pretty much a daily occurrence on this trip for the girls. You lose a lot of park time, but the relaxing is good for everyone. You just have to change you touring style with little ones or it'll be miserable for the whole group. Relaxing wasn't hard to do, either, when we were at the Wilderness Lodge!
IluvXU
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jan 22, 2005
I still have not touched the DVD. I saw it tonight. Maybe some night coming up I will pop it in for a Disney fix!
I regret not going on a vacation with points sooner... a quick trip this fall or winter would have been nice!
We bought sight unseen at Beach Club, then went down and did the tour, and bought Kidani. I really wanted those fast passes...
Those FPs are pretty costly!
Trying to get caught up with all I missed while we were gone. I love seeing the great pictures of your smiling kids! All the matching dresses are cute!
Ariel is a favorite of Brooklynn, and we happened to be first in line to see her this trip. It was about ten till 9, and no one was in line yet, so we started a line.
We've done two Crystal Palace dinners, but not a breakfast yet. We will, though!
Glad to hear Hannah has a new love for an old Disney classic.
Back to the room for swimming and naps was pretty much a daily occurrence on this trip for the girls. You lose a lot of park time, but the relaxing is good for everyone. You just have to change you touring style with little ones or it'll be miserable for the whole group. Relaxing wasn't hard to do, either, when we were at the Wilderness Lodge!
MeMom we missed you! It is so different touring with little ones. Luke was a trooper but he is still a baby!
CP was awfully yummy for breakfast but we thought it was the best buffet for dinner we have done, so I am not sure which I loved more!
I think the diaper thing and the watching him factor. He would never have gone for it, but I fed him lunch during the presentation because we ran late, had a rotten diaper... you name it, it happened!
dddisrunner
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Feb 24, 2007
Wow, that whole process seemed a little crazy! i guess it is good for DVC to have all that traffic though! Obviously, it didn't affect you too much because you still bought in right!
Glad the girls had fun too! Can't wait for more!
Glad the girls had fun too! Can't wait for more!
IluvXU
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jan 22, 2005
These were earlier pics from the morning...
I cannot say enough that CSR was beautiful. Great theming, beautiful pool area!
So we were headed back to HS for dinner at Mama Melrose. At this point we had decided a no to seeing Fantasmic, even with the dinner package. Crowded bus, three kids, strollers... it was all too much. Plus DH and I had plans for once we got back that night! Once again we had a sleeping kid- Emily. We had decided to not use our stroller rental for just a few hours, so we brought the two single strollers for the night, and Hannah walked. We walked by TSM.... over a two hour wait, no thanks and no FPS (on Sunday there were passes still available at this time). Therefore we could not use our FPs from the DVC tour--- so we would save them for MK the next day. We found it way way way more crowded today, probably due to Fantasmic that night!
A photo tour with Hannah....
We hoped to catch this ....
Broadway Bound.....
We made it back to Mama Melrose and were seated right away for our 4:15 ADR. We made it there just before it poured... it really let loose! Emily was tucked in a corner, sleeping in the stroller. Thank you Disney for letting us do this!
I must admit, this was not our best meal. It might have been since we had eaten a lot already that week, had a late lunch that day, and it took forever.
I ordered Charred Sirloin Steak- it was good. Since we had the Fantasmic dining package we all got appetizers too, I think everyone got a salad. By the time we ordered desserts my parents wanted the kid sundae. No big dessert, we were all stuffed. I got the warm truffle cake, it was yummy but I was not hungry either. At 5:30 DH and Hannah left, they wanted to catch the last Beauty and the Beast show at 5:45, so DH dessert was in a to go box.... we still were waiting. It was almost a two hour meal, and not that exciting. Along the way Em woke up and ate, and Luke fell asleep.
We paid and left, and it was still raining, somewhat hard. We made our way across to the muppet store and hung out there for a while. Finally it let up a bit, and we headed towards the Chinese Theatre to met DH and Hannah. We then split up again- we were going to take the girls to see the American Idol finale and my parents and Luke were going to Muppets. The finale was at 7, and yes we lined up early, almost 40 minutes and it was closed out crowded. Every seat full! I left my camera with my mom... sorry!
The waiting is passed by some live info on the singers, some taped footage, but all in all entertaining. The judges were funny, and the singers I thought were great. That night the ceo Bob Ieger was celebrating something (years at Disney/birthday) and he had the row behind us reserved, we were towards the top. It was funny to see this big group of dressed up people file in at the end to the reserved row.
It was fun, I admit I like the show and enjoyed this live version. I was very skeptical... but I am glad we went. I would love to know someone who auditioned and hear all about it!
After that, we called it a day. My parents were waiting for us outside, so we headed to the buses. It was sprinkling again boo! It really never stopped that night, so I wonder if they had Fantasmic?
Once we got back we got pjs on and tried to settle the kids for the night. DH and I wanted to borrow my parents car for a drive- we were headed to AKL/AKV to explore.
It was almost nine till we got away and we went to AKV first- boy are those roads dark, I guess for the animals. We talked to the CM at security.... and pulled into the parking garage underneath. We headed up the elevators, it was different. We made our way to the lobby, which is not impressive compared to stop two, but I am sure the daytime hours make a huge difference. We got lucky and the DVC rep took us to the model room there! WOW!!!! It was so awesome, even at night. We could see the animals on the savannah... sleeping. It was so peaceful, I felt millions of miles away from the parks and the bustle! The space was amazing too! We enjoyed it, and it was so much more real than the mock rooms (they look the same, but it was just real here).
Then we thanked the guide tons, checked out the store, the community hall, the restaurant, and finally what sealed the deal--- the pool area. It was so great, beautiful theme and just looked like tons of fun for our kids. We cannot wait to go back!
We got in our car and then made stop two- AKL. We had never been there, and since that is part DVC, we wanted to see what it looked like. I loved how the restaurants were tucked away, I saw Jackie's rocking chairs, loved the zero entry pool, visited Mara (should have used a snack credit for zebra domes- darn it), and just took it in. I cannot wait to take the girls back there and Luke. I am sure it is more impressive during the day.
I felt guilty not snapping some pictures, but it was dark and I am not sure what I would have gotten, next time for sure!
Back to the resort DH dropped me off, he headed to the main building to do some work- yikes and some DVC research!
I dreamt DVC dreams... and MK dreams- our last park day was tomorrow, highlighted with a lunch at the castle!
I cannot say enough that CSR was beautiful. Great theming, beautiful pool area!
So we were headed back to HS for dinner at Mama Melrose. At this point we had decided a no to seeing Fantasmic, even with the dinner package. Crowded bus, three kids, strollers... it was all too much. Plus DH and I had plans for once we got back that night! Once again we had a sleeping kid- Emily. We had decided to not use our stroller rental for just a few hours, so we brought the two single strollers for the night, and Hannah walked. We walked by TSM.... over a two hour wait, no thanks and no FPS (on Sunday there were passes still available at this time). Therefore we could not use our FPs from the DVC tour--- so we would save them for MK the next day. We found it way way way more crowded today, probably due to Fantasmic that night!
A photo tour with Hannah....
We hoped to catch this ....
Broadway Bound.....
We made it back to Mama Melrose and were seated right away for our 4:15 ADR. We made it there just before it poured... it really let loose! Emily was tucked in a corner, sleeping in the stroller. Thank you Disney for letting us do this!
I must admit, this was not our best meal. It might have been since we had eaten a lot already that week, had a late lunch that day, and it took forever.
I ordered Charred Sirloin Steak- it was good. Since we had the Fantasmic dining package we all got appetizers too, I think everyone got a salad. By the time we ordered desserts my parents wanted the kid sundae. No big dessert, we were all stuffed. I got the warm truffle cake, it was yummy but I was not hungry either. At 5:30 DH and Hannah left, they wanted to catch the last Beauty and the Beast show at 5:45, so DH dessert was in a to go box.... we still were waiting. It was almost a two hour meal, and not that exciting. Along the way Em woke up and ate, and Luke fell asleep.
We paid and left, and it was still raining, somewhat hard. We made our way across to the muppet store and hung out there for a while. Finally it let up a bit, and we headed towards the Chinese Theatre to met DH and Hannah. We then split up again- we were going to take the girls to see the American Idol finale and my parents and Luke were going to Muppets. The finale was at 7, and yes we lined up early, almost 40 minutes and it was closed out crowded. Every seat full! I left my camera with my mom... sorry!
The waiting is passed by some live info on the singers, some taped footage, but all in all entertaining. The judges were funny, and the singers I thought were great. That night the ceo Bob Ieger was celebrating something (years at Disney/birthday) and he had the row behind us reserved, we were towards the top. It was funny to see this big group of dressed up people file in at the end to the reserved row.
It was fun, I admit I like the show and enjoyed this live version. I was very skeptical... but I am glad we went. I would love to know someone who auditioned and hear all about it!
After that, we called it a day. My parents were waiting for us outside, so we headed to the buses. It was sprinkling again boo! It really never stopped that night, so I wonder if they had Fantasmic?
Once we got back we got pjs on and tried to settle the kids for the night. DH and I wanted to borrow my parents car for a drive- we were headed to AKL/AKV to explore.
It was almost nine till we got away and we went to AKV first- boy are those roads dark, I guess for the animals. We talked to the CM at security.... and pulled into the parking garage underneath. We headed up the elevators, it was different. We made our way to the lobby, which is not impressive compared to stop two, but I am sure the daytime hours make a huge difference. We got lucky and the DVC rep took us to the model room there! WOW!!!! It was so awesome, even at night. We could see the animals on the savannah... sleeping. It was so peaceful, I felt millions of miles away from the parks and the bustle! The space was amazing too! We enjoyed it, and it was so much more real than the mock rooms (they look the same, but it was just real here).
Then we thanked the guide tons, checked out the store, the community hall, the restaurant, and finally what sealed the deal--- the pool area. It was so great, beautiful theme and just looked like tons of fun for our kids. We cannot wait to go back!
We got in our car and then made stop two- AKL. We had never been there, and since that is part DVC, we wanted to see what it looked like. I loved how the restaurants were tucked away, I saw Jackie's rocking chairs, loved the zero entry pool, visited Mara (should have used a snack credit for zebra domes- darn it), and just took it in. I cannot wait to take the girls back there and Luke. I am sure it is more impressive during the day.
I felt guilty not snapping some pictures, but it was dark and I am not sure what I would have gotten, next time for sure!
Back to the resort DH dropped me off, he headed to the main building to do some work- yikes and some DVC research!
I dreamt DVC dreams... and MK dreams- our last park day was tomorrow, highlighted with a lunch at the castle!
wigdoutdismom
Disney Driven in every way.
- Joined
- Jun 25, 2008
How awesome you got to see the AI finale show! We've been there twice but never for the evening showing! I'm sure when they start the show back up on TV they will talk about the Disney winners! Isn't the talent amazing?
So cool you and dh went over the Kidani and the Jambo to look around. We can't wait to see Kidani up close and personal in December! I would love for it to be warm enough to use the pool.
Another great update! Can't believe you are almost done with your trip, I still have 5 days to get through on my report.
So cool you and dh went over the Kidani and the Jambo to look around. We can't wait to see Kidani up close and personal in December! I would love for it to be warm enough to use the pool.
Another great update! Can't believe you are almost done with your trip, I still have 5 days to get through on my report.
brookelizabeth
Jambo Wildbunch Gang
- Joined
- Jul 20, 2006
We had similar "issues" with Henry during our DVC tour - ours took over 3 hours because we had so many questions and made the guide repeat himself on some topics so we REALLY got it. Dirty diapers, antsy, nap, snacks, juice, the whole thing! Made it a bit more difficult, but it was worth it!
I am THRILLED to hear of your description of Kidani! I am really looking forward to seeing that pool area. I think Henry is going to have a ball. I bet your girls are gonna just love it with all the splash areas like the fountains! And very soon Luke will be joining in!
I am THRILLED to hear of your description of Kidani! I am really looking forward to seeing that pool area. I think Henry is going to have a ball. I bet your girls are gonna just love it with all the splash areas like the fountains! And very soon Luke will be joining in!
shannon47142
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jun 20, 2007
Hannah looked so grown up in her pictures!!
Glad you and DH got to check things out without the kiddos
Glad you and DH got to check things out without the kiddos
lmillercrew
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Mar 5, 2007
How exciting that you were able to get DVC! I would think that if you're a DVC owner, it makes going back to Disney that much easier. Hopefully, someday, we'll be able to buy into it.
Can't believe that your last day is coming this quickly! I have enjoyed how quickly you've done your report. Less wait time on the experience.
Can't believe that your last day is coming this quickly! I have enjoyed how quickly you've done your report.
Less wait time on the experience.
Charleston Princess
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jan 28, 2008
Hannah is too cute in her Zac Effron shirt!!! LOL!
I love hearing all about your DVC tour and visiting AKL/AKV!
about "my" rocking chairs -- but I am more than willing to share with you!
Glad you were able to watch the American Idol finale -- that sounds fun!
I love hearing all about your DVC tour and visiting AKL/AKV!
about "my" rocking chairs -- but I am more than willing to share with you! Glad you were able to watch the American Idol finale -- that sounds fun!
I think the limited Fantasmic shows are making a huge impact on crowds at DHS. We went on a Saturday and didn't have to wait for anything, except for TSM. I've read other TRs about visits on F! days and the park is crowded for the whole day. It really is a shame that Disney's limiting F! showings so much.
Cute, cute pictures of Hannah. She does look so grown up!
Cute, cute pictures of Hannah. She does look so grown up!
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