Magical or Mayhem - a mom and her boys

[MrsPinup]

Well, I see so often these amazing trip reports and after many times of going, I think it is finally time that I write out a trip report. I have been an AP holder since Easter of 2010, but have been making the trek from my cute little town in Nor Cal down to Disneyland regularly since January 2008.

I am married, just recently turned 29, and have two adorable son's ages 8 and 6. Growing up as a split family I had many opportunities to go to Disneyland with both parents and with my grandparents. When I was 12 I took my last trip with my mom, stepdad, step grandma, and little brother before I was unable to go for another 14 years.

I am a huge Disney fan, with Sleeping Beauty at the top of my favorites list. If I could live near Anahiem and work there, I would. Alas, American Sign Language teachers are not in demand at the DLR. Well, I think that is enough back story...on to the trip.

Back in February I joined the DIS Diva's on my first Diva trip and had a wonderful time. During the trip it made me realize how much I enjoy have my kiddos with me to experience the magic and I decided to start planning a trip for summer. Now, typically I would avoid the busy, hot summer months, but with my new teaching job, this became my only option. ASL subs are hard to come by for my small private school. So, with that in mind I selected July and chose the week after my son returns from summer camp. Now sit back, and see my plans and eventual trip unfold.

Pictures from Previous trips:

 

[MrsPinup]

TOC will go here.

 

[MrsPinup]

In two previous trips we have stayed at the Quality Inn on S. Manchester because their prices were the best with our military discount. Once again, they held true to that. So, back in May I made reservations for July 25-27th and booked it at the early bird rate of $84 a night.

We love the free continental breakfast they have there - I mean c'mon, waffles?! After a yummy and filling breakfast, we can walk the 10 minutes it takes to get to the front gates of DLR. Plus, we have been lucky and been able to check in early both previous visits.

A few days ago we found out that my DH cannot get the vacation approved so he will not be attending with us. Knowing that, and that my younger son and I have AP's, I decided that we might as well stay an extra day since we were not confined with having to get my DH back to his job. So, I check online and QI was advertising a rate of $75 for military. This is lower than my original rate so I call them to add the extra day for Sunday night and see about getting the rate adjustment. They happily add the night, but are not so wonderful about adjusting the rate. After arguing with the lady for a bit, she gave me the new rate for Sunday night, lowered my second night to $80, but kept the third night at $84. I am still debating whether I should push the issue further...

 

[MrsPinup]

I have never before (except on the Diva trip) made an itinerary, but this time I thought it would be a good idea.

There have been heated debates about this in the past so I am saying this now: I pack my own lunch and snacks when going to DL. I am a runner and very active with my cross training and gym time so I cannot put loads of calories into my system even on vacation. Yes, there are healthy options at DLR, but lets be honest, they are not always at reasonable prices. I would rather pack my own healthy food and spend the extra money on little things for my kids. Ok, continue....

Sunday
Breakfast: on the road, travelling
Lunch: pack sandwiches and snacks
Dinner: McDonalds at the kids request

Arrive - get FP for IJ
Ride - JC, POC, HM
Get FP for Splash
Ride TMR
Lunch
Ride IJ and maybe Splash
Naptime!
Dinner
Head to CA and get FP or ride GRR
Ride LM, SSS, MFW, GZ, and KTC
Head back over to DL to watch Fantasmic
If awake enough, close down parks.

Monday
Breakfast: At hotel
Lunch: pack sandwiches and snacks
Dinner: French Market

Arrive for rope drop
FP ST!!!
Head to Fantasyland and ride the rides, meet Flynn and Rapunzel
Lunch at 12:15 while watching Billy Hill aka Bella Ella's Boyfriend (maybe get the kids a treat while we watch)
Visit PLOTSI and let the kids run around.
Jedi Training Academy at 2:25
Grab spot for Parade, starts at 4
Dinner
Hopefully can use FP for ST now
Ride Buzz, Watch CEO, Autotopia, and IASW
Find spot for fireworks, hang out at watch.
Depending on energy, close down park.

Tuesday
Breakfast: at hotel
Lunch: Sandwiches and snacks
Dinner: Tortilla Joe's in DTD

Arrive at opening, grab FP for IJ
Ride POC, HM
do Shootin' Exposition and do whatever till 9:30.
Head over to DCA
Get FP for Soarin'
Ride TOT, MI
watch Phineas and Ferb show at 11:30
Get FP for CA screamin
Lunch
Ride KTC and head to Bug's Land for rides
Ride CAS, LM, GRR
Let kids play at RCCT
Dinner
Head back to DLR and ride IJ
Go to Tiki Tiki Room (and enjoy a Dole Whip Float!)
No real plans here...letting the kids suggest the rides for the rest of the night!

Wednesday
Breakfast: at hotel
Lunch: sandwiches and snacks
Dinner: Red Rocket Pizza Port

Arrive at Rope Drop
Grab Space Mountain FP, ride FN, Buzz, AO, BTMR, DCEC (first time!!), Splash, HM, POC, JC and grab IJ FP
Lunch
Ride Space
Ride or do whatever the kids want to do again.....
Dinner
Ride or do whatever the kids want to do again....until we are ready to leave.

 

[smile4stamps]

In two previous trips we have stayed at the Quality Inn on S. Manchester because their prices were the best with our military discount. Once again, they held true to that. So, back in May I made reservations for July 25-27th and booked it at the early bird rate of $84 a night.

We love the free continental breakfast they have there - I mean c'mon, waffles?! After a yummy and filling breakfast, we can walk the 10 minutes it takes to get to the front gates of DLR. Plus, we have been lucky and been able to check in early both previous visits.

A few days ago we found out that my DH cannot get the vacation approved so he will not be attending with us. Knowing that, and that my younger son and I have AP's, I decided that we might as well stay an extra day since we were not confined with having to get my DH back to his job. So, I check online and QI was advertising a rate of $75 for military. This is lower than my original rate so I call them to add the extra day for Sunday night and see about getting the rate adjustment. They happily add the night, but are not so wonderful about adjusting the rate. After arguing with the lady for a bit, she gave me the new rate for Sunday night, lowered my second night to $80, but kept the third night at $84. I am still debating whether I should push the issue further...

I'm here!!!

I stayed here my first 2 trips! I agree its a good deal for the price and the free breakfast is a bonus! I hear a lot of bad things about the place but I've not had a problem.

The 2nd time I stayed there I used Last Minute Travel to book my room. You can see pictures of the hotel so I knew it was what I was getting before I booked. You might want to try that next time as the prices can be even better! I imagine since you did the Early Bird Special you cannot cancel that and rebook right?

I'm looking at staying here again for my October trip (If my vacation gets approved!)

 

[JH87]

I LOVE your boys Phineas and Ferb costumes!
Sounds like you have a great trip planned! And it's just around the corner

 

[MrsPinup]

The 2nd time I stayed there I used Last Minute Travel to book my room. You can see pictures of the hotel so I knew it was what I was getting before I booked. You might want to try that next time as the prices can be even better! I imagine since you did the Early Bird Special you cannot cancel that and rebook right?

Right Such a bummer!

 

[MrsPinup]

I LOVE your boys Phineas and Ferb costumes!
Sounds like you have a great trip planned! And it's just around the corner

Thanks! I was Candance and the DH was Dr. Doofinshmirtz....the boys were stopped often for pictures. I bet this year the idea will not be so original. It looks like you are about to head off to DL too! Enjoy your trip!

 

[DizNee Luver]

Sounds great Jen!!! It's a real bummer hubby doesn't get to go, but I'm sure you & the boys will still have a great time.

That is kinda weird that they lowered the military rate but won't make the adjustment on your ressie. Maybe ask them if you should cancel your ressie & rebook to get the lower rate. Doesn't seem right to be paying more than someone else would be.....besides threatening to cancel might snap them to attention......lol

I live by trip itineraries, but don't schedule rides & what FP's we gather.....we go with the flow or what sounds like fun. We schedule the 2 meals & entertainment, shows, parades, fireworks, etc.

We took 10 of us last July/Aug & it was very doable. It didn't get too hot & the crowds weren't bad at all. I'd pick summer over spring break everytime......spring break is HORRIBLE!! Did it twice & got my fill for the rest of my life!

 

[sierranevada]

I'm here, Jen!

Sorry DH can't go but you will have a great time with your boys!

 

[mommaU4]

I'm here!!

Hi Jen! I love all those pics you posted. So fun! I'm sorry your DH won't make the trip. That's a shame. But everything sounds good so far, and I can't wait to hear more.

 

[Happy 2 B Me]

Here for the trip. I need to get going on the other trip reports although I have been reading Lauries, Bella's and Paula's. I don't write respond much but I am here reading . Kids look so cute.

Dang that Military--Sorry husband can not go-- maybe he can fly in for a day? Prob would cost to much and for one day --well if you are like me I would want to save and have him go with next time.

 

[VintageDisneyRules]

Great start Jen ! Looking forward to reading more.

 

[MrsPinup]

Thanks ladies Well, plans look like they are going smoothly. I am going to hop in the shower and run over and do my grocery shopping for the next week. I need to buy stuff for the trip and make sure my hubby has some meals as well.

 

[sierranevada]

Have a great time!!

 

[WDWJonasGirl]

I love the plans so far!! The boys look cute in their phineas and ferb costumes. Have a great time!!

 

[MrsPinup]

Ok....time to finish the trip prep, nap, and get outta here! See ya when I get back

 

[JH87]

Have fun!!!

 

[DizNee Luver]

Have a *+*+*Magical*+*+* time Jen!!!

 

[WDWJonasGirl]

Have a great time!!