Life is too short for self-hatred and celery sticks: final update 12/29, p.98

[rentayenta]

OK so what form do I have to fill out in order to change my birthday from September to March, so I can celebrate with y'all?

We are excited to have this as our new birthday protocol and the more the merrier.​

Lovely update, it was much anticipated and so far it has lived up to the hype

I'm loving the DLH pics and have my fingers crossed for some of Cars Land

The rooms at the DLH are beautiful. DVC generally makes hotel rooms just so-so but that's not the case with the DLH.

I do have some photos of Carsland but not a ton. I'll be back in 17 days and will take a ton during our commando Disney day.​

I hope to be in Disneyland for my 40th (it's not this year but next) and I thought I'd love to stay at the GC but now seeing your pics of DLH, I might be thinking about that, it looks so cool and my boys might like it better

Looking forward to more....

What a wonderful way to spend your 40th! Having now stayed at the GCH and the refurbed DLH, I might choose the DLH unless you're renting DVC points for the GCV. The rooms at the GCH while pretty seem smaller than the rooms at the DLH. Some of the rooms though at the GCH have bunk beds which your boys might like.

The GCH/V though are fabulous. The lobby is unreal. We love Storytellers and Whitewater Snacks. We didn't get a chance to try Trader Sam's at the DLH but it's got that cool Tiki Vive and sounds fun. The pool at the GCV is also great. Lots of shade and lots of sun.

That's a tough choice but you can't go wrong with either.​

Another thing in favor for me about the DLH is that the rooms are larger. That is a definite plus for me.

It was a big room. We had more than enough room.


How did Scotty's testing go?






I've got another mini update of sorts regarding Spring Break and a very loose itinerary. I love a good itinerary. DH has decided to join us for the first few days of Spring Break He used to go with us on all of our trips but since going into business with his buddy it's very hard to plan anything super far out. Because this little Spring Break trip is so last minute, for me , he's able to join us. So as it stands, here are our plans:

Friday: drive from SLC to Vegas, stay the night. Right now I have the newly refurbed Plaza book for $48 a night. It's on Fremont St. downtown. My very picky friend stayed there recently and promises me the rooms are very clean and the interior of the hotel has been all remodeled, except the casino. My only hesitation is that the reviews are VERY mixed on this hotel. Realistically we won't arrive until about 9 pm and really just will want a decent dinner and a clean place to sleep. I am also stalking Expedia etc for any other great deals. We've stayed at so many places in Vegas. The Orleans is my first choice but it's booked solid. I'm also looking at the Hardrock Hotel but with it being the Friday night of Spring Break, I don't want to get caught up in all that Strip traffic. I know DH will be up for come Craps so I may have to change the hotel, maybe the Golden Nugget....I just don't know.

Saturday: early start to So Cal, staying with my bestie again, the same friend we just stayed with.

Sunday: Disneyland/DCA commando day. Orginally we were only going to get a one day/one park ticket but have decided to go for the hopper. A friend of a friend was able to get us a discount on our hoppers. I'm very grateful as I had NO idea how I was going to handle DCA without Disneyland. We haven't done a commando day without a midday break since the kids were all in strollers. I think I'm going to need a stroller. I'm working on that daily itinerary right now. I'll post more specifics about that later.

Monday: beach and then DH's flight leaves at 3:30 from LGB to SLC. LGB is the best airport. And speaking of, my Kayak daily flight alert came this morning and DH's flight went down $61 so I called and now have a JetBlue credit. I love JetBlue.

Tuesday- Friday: no idea. It'll be just the kids and myself. I know we'll do some beach days and we'll see my father a few times. He's in a SNF and can only handle visits of about an hour or so, so we don't really need to plan those. Of course they're wanting another Disneyland day. At least I raised them right. These days will be weather dependent and there's nothing we've got set in stone. My friend works during the day so I'm sure we'll do a few dinners/evenings with her and hit up some of our favorites; Taco Surf, Walt's Wharf, maybe McKenna's, and a few other spots.

Saturday: drive back to SLC from So Cal, no overnight stop. We love taking out time on the way out but on the way home we just want to get home.

​

 

[MomToPrincePhillip]

Your spring break plan looks great! Good news on the surprise deal on the DL tixs.

I'm thinking maybe we'll do the DLH for my 40th because the kids will really enjoy it, maybe save GC for a trip without kids (not sure I could ever really do that or not...) or for when they're a little older. Good thing I've got a while to plan and flip flop on that trip

 

[kaoden39]

Hi,

I am sorry I didn't get back on here yesterday to bring you up to date. Scotty had that CT scan last Friday and then yesterday had his neuro appointment. The Dr examined him and was able to help with Scotty's vertigo. He had ordered an MRI to get a better look at his past concussions and to look at his neck to make sure that there are no compressed vertebrae. I like the neuro. I like him much more than I do Scotty's primary care Dr who I have been beginning to think that she is treating him like he is drug hunting. She said to him at the last visit "sometimes people are sick for no reason." She has repeated the same blood tests over and over for the last 14 months as if something that wasn't there the last time. I really hope that we are on to something here.

 

[rentayenta]

Your spring break plan looks great! Good news on the surprise deal on the DL tixs.

I'm thinking maybe we'll do the DLH for my 40th because the kids will really enjoy it, maybe save GC for a trip without kids (not sure I could ever really do that or not...) or for when they're a little older. Good thing I've got a while to plan and flip flop on that trip

Disneyland for your 40th would be awesome! It used to be hard to go without kids but not anymore. Once they're older and start getting a life, I found it not only okay but super fun. Now of course I prefer to go with them but I'm not opposed to going without them for a day. I don't know that I'm ready to do an entire WDW or Disneyland trip without them yet. They're still my babies.

Spring Break will be SO much fun! DH's birthday is late March so it'll double as some birthday fun for him. ​

Hi,

I am sorry I didn't get back on here yesterday to bring you up to date. Scotty had that CT scan last Friday and then yesterday had his neuro appointment. The Dr examined him and was able to help with Scotty's vertigo. He had ordered an MRI to get a better look at his past concussions and to look at his neck to make sure that there are no compressed vertebrae. I like the neuro. I like him much more than I do Scotty's primary care Dr who I have been beginning to think that she is treating him like he is drug hunting. She said to him at the last visit "sometimes people are sick for no reason." She has repeated the same blood tests over and over for the last 14 months as if something that wasn't there the last time. I really hope that we are on to something here.

I hope you get some answers. What a horrible thing to say to someone who's not only not feeling well but frustrated by a lack of results. I understand MDs being cautious as to what they're prescribing however it's easy for an MD to see what someone has been taking and if they're doctor/med shopping. Sounds like she needs a little polishing on her bedside manner.​

 

[kaoden39]

Disneyland for your 40th would be awesome! It used to be hard to go without kids but not anymore. Once they're older and start getting a life, I found it not only okay but super fun. Now of course I prefer to go with them but I'm not opposed to going without them for a day. I don't know that I'm ready to do an entire WDW or Disneyland trip without them yet. They're still my babies.

Spring Break will be SO much fun! DH's birthday is late March so it'll double as some birthday fun for him.






I hope you get some answers. What a horrible thing to say to someone who's not only not feeling well but frustrated by a lack of results. I understand MDs being cautious as to what they're prescribing however it's easy for an MD to see what someone has been taking and if they're doctor/med shopping. Sounds like she needs a little polishing on her bedside manner.​

The funny thing is that he has never asked for any medicine. All he has ever done is ask to figure out what is going on with his body. The funny thing is that she is my moms Dr and she is great with my mom. I just don't get it. Maybe she just doesn't like male patients.

 

[rentayenta]

The funny thing is that he has never asked for any medicine. All he has ever done is ask to figure out what is going on with his body. The funny thing is that she is my moms Dr and she is great with my mom. I just don't get it. Maybe she just doesn't like male patients.

That is strange. I'd find another doctor. How does Scotty feel about her questioning? Sounds like she's being disrespectful.​

 

[kaoden39]

That is strange. I'd find another doctor. How does Scotty feel about her questioning? Sounds like she's being disrespectful.​

He doesn't like it and he is afraid of what she might have put in his chart and if it is going to follow him around.

 

[rentayenta]

We entered DCA without difficulty and without a line. Of course we headed straight for Carsland. Joshua had asked me for a Cozy Cone cup, a Club 33 pin, pen, and cookies. I was on my first mission to find the cup.

Carsland is UNREAL! I’ve seen about 1,000 photos and wow, I understand the hype. Disney spared no expense on this. Brilliant.

First stop RSR! While I wanted to stroll down Buena Vista St., I knew that time was of the essence.

Rockin’ our birthday buttons:

Before I continue, you’ll notice a definite quality difference between photos. As usual, some were taken with the camera and some with my iPhone.

We decided to ride single rider as the wait just to get FP’s had to be 30 minutes long. The single rider line wasn’t but 15 minutes at the very most. While it was fun to get on the ride quickly, I prefer experiencing the fun with my loved ones. When my family returns in just 16 days, we’ll ride together for the first time and then single after.

The ride is terrific and I can absolutely see why it’s so insanely popular.

We found our Cozy Cones:

We strolled around the shops and rode Luigi’s. Cute ride but I’m thinking there must be a trick to getting that tire off the ground. We were laughing so hard we could hardly get it to do anything.

The skies starting to cloud up:

And another one of the goofy birthday girls:

As we waked over to Disneyland I explained to my friend all about the cute personalized bricks. She said she’d seen them before but never paid attention to the writing. We decided we need a birthday brick.

There wasn’t a line to get into Disneyland and I’m thinking it was about 10:30 or so by this time.

Yes, I always take this photo. It’s one of my favorites:

First stop after taking in all of the sights and sounds? Indy! I heard it went through a recent refurb and it was so shiny and I loved that the rats were working. The wait was also non-existent. I was expecting today to be crowded but I think the forecast must have kept people away because it was pretty empty still.

The ropes and bamboo were all working as well. The cave looked great for a damp and musty cave. I wanted to show Sadee the Eeyore sign but we literally didn’t stop to watch the film.

After Indy it was time for a spin on POTC, another favorite but before that I was dying to show Sadee the Club 33 sign and door. She’s been to Disneyland a few times and had no idea it was there. Right there!!! I could hardly contain my excitement. I was in this unreal hazy fog of joy.

No Club pics yet....you’ll have to wait.

POTC was also a walk on. We got the front row and were giddy like little girls. This is my favorite scene. There is a sign in the front of this scene that says *Captain’s Quarters*. I would love to get a sign like that for DH. He’s a Captain at the FD and it would fabulous in his room.

A little fun with the band:

And another band but this time we got beads and didn’t even have to show them our.....

Next, I wanted to show her some things I knew she’d never seen or noticed. But first a pic in front of the Castle:

I asked if she new about Snow White’s wishing well. She didn’t. G-d I love newbies.

I gave her a dime, she threw it in, and voila:

It was a perfect day.

We were going to ride Peter Pan- hahaha- but the line was a little too long; we had about 45 minutes until lunch and I wasn’t going to chance being even a minute late. Right then the wind kicked up and it started to pour. Luckily we were prepared. We packed umbrellas that morning and a change of shoes as we knew we couldn’t wear flip flops to lunch. We whipped out the umbrellas and ran under the castle. Guess what else she’d never seen? The Sleeping Beauty castle walk-thru. I know, right?!?!

We walked through and read it all. I did take one picture:

She had no idea this was even there. I explained to her that after 9/11 it was closed for sometime and it had always been so special to me. I was happy to share it with her.

Another of my favorite icons:

Continued in next post.....​

 

[rentayenta]

I had been texting with Alison on and off and knew she and Fran were parking. I was so eager to meet them both and have them meet Sadee too. I knew we’d all hit it off. I like mixing 3D and 2D friends.

I don’t even remember the walk over to Club 33 because I was literally in shock. You see, Club 33 is a bucket list item for me. It is for my Chloe too. Chloe is a huge Walt Disney fan and loves all things unique and quirky, especially Disney things that are unique and quirky. She was in school but right after lunch I text her a ton of photos. I love that my family was supportive and sweet about me going without them. The trip to So Cal had been in place before the Club 33 plans.

We arrived a good 15 minutes before our reservation. I was just so excited I couldn’t concentrate.

I’ll tell you, there is something special about the 33 knowing that you are going INSIDE!

Here’s where it gets funny. Sadee and I were trying to take a self-portrait when these nice guys asked if we'd like them to take it. Of course we did. Then they asked if we wanted to take it while holding their Club 33 membership cards!

Very sweet and they said they’d see us in there. They had a 1:30 lunch reservation. We did end up seeing them two tables away from us. They were with a big party.

It was still raining.......and we were dying to go in.....we decided to ring the notorious bell, give our party name, and go inside:

I’m smiling so hard I think my face is going to crack in this photo.

I can barely write about it now without my hands shaking.

I rang the bell, the door opened, and I gave our party name. WE WERE IN! I about had a heart attack.

Joshua needs the computer for homework so I’ll be back with the rest......
























Just kidding.


There was another party inside but we couldn’t contain our excitement. In fact, I could hardly behave during the whole meal.

Club 33 selfies:

I could not believe how warm and gorgeous it felt. It really is something special.

While we waiting for A&F (Alison and Fran not Abercrombie and Fitch) to arrive I took a few photos. I should have taken more but I was truly so wrapped up in the ambiance.

I knew we’d be taking the lift so shimmied up the stairs to take the above photos.

A&F had arrived. I was so excited to meet them both. They had a very late night before so I was so happy they’d made it.

I’m a hugger. I hug. It’s what I do. there’s no stopping me.

I apologize. She’s still talking and texting me so I’m guessing I didn’t offend.

Continued in next post.....​

 

[rentayenta]

You never really know when you meet 2D friends how you’ll mesh. Online is one thing but real life is another ballgame. I’m happy to report it was a lovely lunch. A&F are as sweet as I thought they’d be and they’re very easy to be around. They couldn’t have been any sweeter to Sadee either.

We met, we chat, we walk. Alison showed us Walt’s *hidden* microphones in the trophy room:

We were sat:

We were given menus. I seriously caressed mine and had to hold on to it for a few minutes even after we ordered:

It’s nearly impossible to embarrass me. Or embarrass myself. Hope I didn’t embarrass A&F.

We ordered our drinks. I got a Long Island, S got a Diet Coke, Fran got a margarita, and Alison ordered white wine if I recall correctly. I was still in a foggy haze of joy and remained that way the rest of the afternoon.

Fran took this and I think it turned out nice:

Our server was darling, explaining the menu. Everything sounded amazing.

Here’s where you all might hurt me. I didn’t take a photo of the inside of the menu so I have no descriptions of what we ordered.

We chatted some more then headed to the buffet portion of our meal. Can you say worth every calorie? My words cannot do it justice so enjoy the photos:

My first plate:

Sadee’s first plate:

Both Alison and I ordered the lamb chops (med rare) and Fran and Sadee ordered the lobster:

Truffle Mac and Cheese:

Continued in next post....​

 

[rentayenta]

Truffle Mac and Cheese deserves it’s own trip report. Its like nirvana in a bowl. The server brought us this huge bowl which we all polished off. If you ever go to Club 33, do not miss this.

Alison ordered a glass of red with lunch.

We thoroughly enjoyed the food. It was all amazing. We knew we all wanted dessert so at some point I had to wrap my lamb up. Sadee and Fran both had lobster leftover. Lobster isn’t something you really want to schlep around or eat leftover so Sunni, their kitty, feasted that night. Sunni feasting on lobster isn’t even the best part. The best part is Fran bringing her own baggies. She’s a woman after my own heart. If you recall my overly stuffed fridge and shelves at the beginning of this report, I think you’ll see some baggies. I brought both gallon and sandwich so when I saw Fran whip out the baggies, I was very impressed. The boxes they bring are rather bulky and not practical to carry around. Next time, I’m bringing baggies!

Dessert was next. Alison and her chocolate martini:

That martini looked delicious and if I wasn’t so intent on stuffing myself further on solid food, I would have ordered one.

Joshua really wanted the Club 33 cookies I had shown him online prior to lunch. They didn’t have them on our day but they did have insanely good eclairs and cookies that I was able to take home:

Our server noticed Sadee’s birthday and brought this out. She apologized once she saw my button but in all honesty we were totally stuffed and couldn’t finish this adorable little Mickey Mousse:

After dessert Alison grabbed some fruit which sounded crazy as we were so stuffed but it acted as sort of a wake-me-up from my food coma. Brilliant and so good, fresh and sweet:

Our sweet server showed up with 4 new pens for me to take home. It was very sweet. I know they give them out but I found it thoughtful nonetheless.

After we paid the bill, it was time to check out the goodie case and take some more photos. Out of the case, I bought 2 hats, a pin, a coffee mug, and a shot glass.

Get ready for way too many photos:

We walked down the stairs....

here comes the lift.....

Tadaaaaa:

I had such a lovely lunch with wonderful people. It was everything I thought it would be and more.

To be continued.......




​

 

[jedijill]

Looks like a wonderful meal in a really special place with some wonderful and special friends!

Club 33 is on my bucket list....maybe someone I'll meet someone with connections! I've been inside the door on a tour but am dying to go upstairs!

Jill in CO

 

[kaoden39]

Oh it looks like you all had a wonderful time! How nice to make 2D friends into 3D friends! I am so happy for you!

 

[mvf-m11c]

A little late to your updates. Very nice pictures of the first day of your trip and staying at the DLH.

Glad to hear that you had a birthday at Club 33 with Sadee, Alison and Fran. All of your pictures are very nice.

 

[franandaj]

Awesome updates! I can help you out with one thing....

Here is the menu

We actually ordered the bowl of truffle Mac & Cheese. For whatever reason, some of the servers used to bring it gratis, now they charge you for it and put it on the menu so everyone knows to order it.

I love the picture of Fran coming out of the Lift! It's also so nice to see her smiling and feeling good. Quite a change from the past two years, and very refreshing!

When you come for Spring break maybe one of the nights we could join you for dinner somewhere and we could crack a few bottles from my wine cellar. I know you plan on spending most nights with your friend, but we would love to go out one of the nights and get together if you can spare the time.

 

[PrincessInOz]

I'm in nirvana. Loving the pictures and I'm sitting here with the biggest smile on my face. It looks like a great time was had by everyone .... and the food porn was delicious!

(Running off to get something to clean my screen now).

 

[rentayenta]

Looks like a wonderful meal in a really special place with some wonderful and special friends!

Club 33 is on my bucket list....maybe someone I'll meet someone with connections! I've been inside the door on a tour but am dying to go upstairs!

Jill in CO

It was very special, thank you. The whole trip was fantastic and full of good friends. I think our girlfriends are our real soulmates. I was able to meet new friends, introduce friends, and also be with some of my oldest and dearest friends.​

Oh it looks like you all had a wonderful time! How nice to make 2D friends into 3D friends! I am so happy for you!

Thank you! I still feel like I have perma grin when talking or thinking about it.​

A little late to your updates. Very nice pictures of the first day of your trip and staying at the DLH.

Glad to hear that you had a birthday at Club 33 with Sadee, Alison and Fran. All of your pictures are very nice.

Thanks Bret. It was one of the best Disney days ever.​

Awesome updates! I can help you out with one thing....

Here is the menu

Thanks! The buffet bar was awesome too. I could rip into some of those little crab claws right now and it's only 5 am. Sadee said that that was her best trip to Disneyland and California and that you and Fran were so nice, good people.​

We actually ordered the bowl of truffle Mac & Cheese. For whatever reason, some of the servers used to bring it gratis, now they charge you for it and put it on the menu so everyone knows to order it.

That's right. It was unreal. And it had nicely sized truffle shavings not just little sprinkles. I can't believe they only charge $9. That's got to be the best food deal in all of Disneyland. A corn dog is $6.​

I love the picture of Fran coming out of the Lift! It's also so nice to see her smiling and feeling good. Quite a change from the past two years, and very refreshing!

She looks great. I can email you any of those to show her. I'm not sure if she reads these reports so I'd be happy to email any of them if she wants to see them.​

When you come for Spring break maybe one of the nights we could join you for dinner somewhere and we could crack a few bottles from my wine cellar. I know you plan on spending most nights with your friend, but we would love to go out one of the nights and get together if you can spare the time.

Of course! I was going to see what your plans were as it gets closer. I'll have my kids but they're great and not shy; well behaved but not shy. What evening between Tuesday and Thursday looks best for you? Where should we go? I'm sure there are so many restaurants I have forgotten about. And Gabby can drive so I'll be able to have a glass of wine or two. ​

I'm in nirvana. Loving the pictures and I'm sitting here with the biggest smile on my face. It looks like a great time was had by everyone .... and the food porn was delicious!

(Running off to get something to clean my screen now).

The food was delicious. My lamb came with these little potatoes that were light enough to enhance the flavor of the lamb without being an overwhelming side dish. I didn't touch the breads area on the buffet. And I didn't eat near enough dessert. The cheesecake on a stick was divine. And I should have tried the creme brûlée. I ended up brining the macaroon home and it was so good. Joshua shared the chocolate ear. Our birthday mousse was the best I've had.

It really was fun and the two hours flew by.





I have a little more of the day to post but not a ton. Hopefully I'll get to that this weekend.



Now back to Spring Break. I'm really not loving being booked at the Plaza in Vegas. Any other downtown or Fremont recommendations? Has anyone here stayed at the Hardrock in Vegas? I know the Friday before Easter is going to be full of young partiers on the Strip but the reviews of the Plaza and the homeless population has me a little hesitant. I work with the homeless so it's not for the reasons you may think. It actually makes me quite sad and I have great empathy for this population. I just don't want to wear my therapist/social work hat during our one night in Vegas. I also don't want to spend a ton on a Strip hotel or deal with the traffic.

Any thought to Vegas hotels? Maybe a convention center one?

I'm also thinking of using my points to get a standard room at the DLH for our one Disneyland/DCA day. Check in is 3:00 which would be right about the time we generally hit our wall. We could leave the parks about 2:00 and take a nice long break before dinner. The points for even a standard room are just ridiculous though. A standard view room at the DLH is 45 points. It's 33 points for a standard at the PPH and the GCH is out of the question. My kids really didn't love the PPH but that was after we stayed a few nights at the GCV. It's since been refurbed and if they a great job like they did with the DLH refurb, I'd be interested in trying it. Of course this is all dependent on availability which could be nil. A close by off site hotel is an option too but I'm spoiled and don't love offsite. Any close offsite recommendations? My friend is only 20 minutes away so a midday break at her house is also an option but I've timed it and am thinking it would take a good hour each way between leaving, the tram, parking etc...

Can I use the valet at the hotels if I'm not staying the night? If I leave and come back, is my valet ticket for that day still good or will I have to pay the $22 again?

​

 

[MEK]

I really enjoyed reading about your girl's birthday trip. How wonderful to stick your toes in the ocean and then fall asleep with fireworks bursting on the headboard over your head. That is just so cool. And kudos on getting your room choice. It looks perfect.

I have never been to DL, but I really enjoy seeing the pictures of it. It looks like such a great park.

Carsland also looks really amazing. I hope to see it for myself someday.

Your lunch at 33 - well there are really no words. What a fabulous dining experience.

 

[rentayenta]

I really enjoyed reading about your girl's birthday trip. How wonderful to stick your toes in the ocean and then fall asleep with fireworks bursting on the headboard over your head. That is just so cool. And kudos on getting your room choice. It looks perfect.

I have never been to DL, but I really enjoy seeing the pictures of it. It looks like such a great park.

Carsland also looks really amazing. I hope to see it for myself someday.

Your lunch at 33 - well there are really no words. What a fabulous dining experience.

The headboard really was so amazing! I know I drink the kool-aid but even my friend was in awe. Carsland is pretty cool and we'll get in depth there in just 15 days! I'm so excited! Kids are bouncing off the walls.

I love the beach too. I've told the kids I want have of my ashes (even though we don't cremate ) in Disneyland and half at the beach.

Disneyland is amazing. I love WDW but Disneyland is the best of the US disney parks.....to me anyway. You can really feel the spirit of Walt Disney there.

Lunch was superb. I hardly have the words and really didn't do the experience justice. For sure a Disney highlight for me.​

 

[dolphingirl47]

Thanks for sharing. Club 33 really looks amazing. I was glad to see that you can get the Macaroni Cheese with any entry for a small upcharge. My all time favourite meal is a nice steak with Macaroni Cheese. The Chateaubriand with a side of Macaroni Cheese sounds like a match made it heaven.

You also helped me make up my mind about something else. I have two nights waitlisted at VGC for September, but I am under no illusion that my chances are slim for the waitlist to come through. I was not sure if I should go for Paradise Pier or Disneyland Hotel as an alternative. Having seen the photos of your room, I will go for Disneyland Hotel if I don't get lucky on the waitlist.

Corinna