3 Generations Wandering the Wilderness from "Cabin" Camping to Club Level-FW & WL

[hstrickland]

Extra! Extra! Read all about it!!!!

Wilderness Lodge Construction Update Alert!!!.....plus a little more.

Part 1




Some of you know that Bill just returned from a conference at Disney. Yep….. the trials and tribulations of work…having to endure 4 days at Disney, poor guy (can you hear the sarcasm???) And he decided to stay at his favorite resort, the Wilderness Lodge. However…no Club Level, no scenic view…but who cares, he was at Disney, right?!




Before leaving, he assures me this is a “business” trip, and they won’t be doing any “fun” stuff….no parks, no fireworks…just your typical conference. And my one request for my dear sweet husband…. GET PICTURES of the construction…PLEASE!




His room view….







Hmmmm …. This Deluxe view strangely resembles our Value view (All Star Music) last Christmas…. Or as we called it…our water view - and I'm using that term very loosely.









In all seriousness, Bill said the location would have been great if he were hitting the pools – North Wing room 1006 , Woods View. Very easy access to the boat dock, also. And it was quiet with the exception of the screaming toddler at night






The conference was actually held at the Swan, so many activities took place there. The first night I get a phone call barely making out Bill’s voice. The loud music playing in the background made it super difficult to hear



Me – “I can barely hear you…”


Bill – “We’re at EP.”


Me – “No you’re not…you said you weren’t going to the parks.” (Bill likes to play practical jokes…I’m sure this is one of them )


Bill – “Really, I am.”


Me- “I don’t believe you”


Bill – “I just sent you pics”


Me – “Seriously??? You’re at EP??!!” (my voice is much louder now)


Jesse- “DAD’S AT EPCOT!!?? NO FAIR!!!”


Bill –(laughing)



Me – “OMG! YOU ARE AT EPCOT!!! YOU LUCKY DAWG!!! I still love you.”






My pictures via text…












In all honesty, I was very excited for my hubby. Love it when my friends and family get to experience a piece of Disney …even without me.





Do you remember my one request???? “GET CONSTRUCTION PICTURES!”




When I awakened from my slumber on Wednesday morning, I noticed I had received a text from my dear sweet hubby that read…




“Here’s your construction picture”…. (notice the word picture is singular…not plural)









Seriously, Bill…. he’s such a comedian.




My reply…. “I’m sure you’re up early combing the construction area now with camera in hand.”




And….he was!!!! Bill doesn’t disappoint!




If you’re a WL Thread follower, you’ve already seen some of these pics; now I have brief commentary to go with them.




Looking back at the South Wing..








Bill thinks this is part of the kids splash area…















You can see Trout Pass Pool Bar in the background…















Walking back towards the main part of the Lodge…. You can see the outside tables and umbrellas near the Roaring Fork.









The once relaxing view of Bay Lake is a bit obstructed…but not for long, my friends.









Looking back towards the pool….








As you can see, the workers are already there and ready to go at 7:30am. However, I don't think they actually start pounding and hammering away at 7:30.









South Wing….










Continued to next post….




​

 

[hstrickland]

Continued from previous post….





Extra! Extra! Read all about it!!!!

Wilderness Lodge Construction Update Alert!!!.....plus a little more.

Part 2





Many of the 1st floor courtyard rooms are unavailable for bookings (for obvious reasons).












North Wing…











Bill had to actually get to “work” so the picture taking ceased…




At the conference, they were giving away prizes. And no, Bill won nothing….however…his buddy that was traveling with him WON!!!




He won an Exotic Driving Experience!!!! While Bill was disappointed he didn’t win, he was happy for his partner in crime. His friend hasn’t been to Disney since he was a small child…so Bill enjoyed showing him the ropes.










Awesome experience!!! And a beautiful day to drive around the track at a mere 122mph….




And again, please remember Bill’s last words before he left… “No parks, no fun stuff…it’s work”.


Ok, dear.





That evening, after a long hard day at work, the boys decided they needed to relax a bit. They traveled back via bus to the MK. Bill said it was packed out with people going to MNSSHP.








No worries about breathing room only….y’all know my hubby loves a good bus ride at Disney.



From the MK, they hopped the monorail to the Poly. They would be “dining” at the Kona Island Sushi Bar.



A pre-dinner drink….remember folks, it’s been a hard day.




Habanero Lime Margarita – and Bill said it was outstanding!!!









For dinner…



Sticky wings – OUTSTANDING!








And a little sushi…some of the best at Disney!!!










Shall we move to the Tambu Lounge Bar????....What’s a Poly visit without a Lapu????









Or two, or three….









As I was receiving these pictures from Bill, I was busy sending them to KOOK. And as she stated… “Whoa there! Time to call in the Fun Police, boys!”



They enjoyed the Hallowishes Fireworks on the beach, then set sail on the boat back to MK then the WL.




Thank goodness they were able to enjoy some downtown ….




Early the next morning, I received another text from hubby. He was sipping really bad coffee and working on the verandah….








Again….very similar view to our Value stay . Glad Bill got a GREAT rate. And seriously, he did…super cheap.









Because I have the most fabulous husband ever, I asked for more WL photos. My wish was granted once again.




The waterfall was back up and running adding beautiful detail to the WL!













Even under construction, the WL is quite impressive!













And inside, the brook was bubbling once again.









Bill had done one heck of a job getting construction pics for me, but I still had one more request (imagine that). If you could please travel to the beach area and snap a few more shots.



So…. on their last morning, he awakened early and ventured out to the beach for his beloved wife.















Luckily he’s tall, so it was easy for him to peer over the fence and snap a picture.









So there you have it folks - October 2014 Construction Updates!!! (Thanks to my most fantabulous husband) And like Bill said…. It’s gonna be one heck of an improvement once it’s complete – but patience is a must.




Can’t wait to see the final product!!!!!!





​

 

[Pinkocto]

Wow, I had no idea that much construction was happening at WL. Thanks to Bill for all the photos!

How nice they managed all that fun at a 'no fun' work conference seriously cool though

 

[Sue M]

Good for Bill, he managed to get some fun time in. I personally couldn't be at a conference at all in WDW, and be expected to concentrate on work when I know what's out there!!! I'd be too busy visualizing myself on Big Thunder, TSMM, etc.
I actually like Bills view of the otter pond! Very peaceful. We had a courtyard view across the hall, and he's right, very convienent location near elevator that goes down to Roaring Forks, and door by pool & boat dock path

What a huge construction! Can't wait to see the new pool. I hope they keep the 2 hot tubs.

 

[Sue M]

Sneaking back into my own trip report...... Do I dare make excuses??? We're on Fall Break now, so I have 4 days to get this ball rolling .... once again.




And no..... not at Disney. We told the kids the money tree has dried up and won't bloom again until the cruise! Just thought I would share a very old Disney Fall picture with you. So wish I were there.... This time of year is fabulous at WDW!!!



​

S L O W down. Breath. Relax. Enjoy life. (says I, who goes 90 to nothing everyday)











Guess it's the norm when meeting people on the Dis - families being worried and all. And looking in from the outside...it is a bit weird






That's why you stretch the truth and leave the part out about never actually meeting in person. My story.... "Going to Disney to meet a friend. We've known each other for years...haven't seen her in forever." That's my story and I'm sticking to it





SAY WHAT???! Like people on TV??!! Ok.... no.

And by the way...your "y'all" sounds a heck of a lot better than my "you guys"!! Just doesn't quite work for me.... I can admit - I'm the odd man out with this whole accent thing. We stick out like a sore thumb. Y'all not so much. You can blend into a crowd much easier than me








Let's face it....we're all a bunch of weirdos But I like different, so it works for me












Hi there!! Bet you thought I had abandoned ship and wouldn't return. More pictures to come within the next couple of hours!!

Hi! I have been in lots of pain but trying to catch up

 

[WDWKOOK]

You have been one busy…

So many great photos and updates, like those funny parents in embarrassing hats and those poor starving kids looking like they're in the OFC jail with their noses pressed against the closed lounge gate. You'd think they hadn't just eaten at AP the night before. I'm not a big AP fan since we've had some service and meat quality inconsistencies there over the years. I do love being able to order off the AP menu at Territory Lounge though. Did you ever get a chance to eat/drink there? I love the memorabilia and ceiling.

That was great that you got to ride right up front for 7DMT. Perfect vantage point for filming all 2:41, but if you ride it again and aren't filming, ask for the back row. They'll put you aside and you'll only wait an extra minute or so to board. The ride is a bit faster in the rear and you'll be able to more easily rock the car back and forth. Enjoyed seeing your 7DMT interactive queue photos. We've always ridden it with FP+ so we've missed that part of the experience. Is it wrong of me to be happy that we've missed that part? I'll live vicariously through your photo

I'm off now to post the link to Bill's WL working vacation photo update. You forgot to mention that both those Lapus were his. And, about that Woods View. If he had requested a 5th floor room, he would have had a partial Wishes view. But, I don't think he was ever back in time to see that anyway

 

[Grumpy's Wife]

Heather it's time to start planning next year's trip so you can see the finished product first hand. It looks like it's going to be wonderful!

 

[Sue M]

All caught up!! . Did I send you our pic of Splash Mtn? Lol. We duck, all you can see us the top of our heads! That's why you're getting all wet Heather, you're not ducking ha!!

When we were sitting at the POFQ food court with you waiting for my friend to arrive, that's how we met, from a Disney board! At meeting it was like we've known each other forever. Since then we've had many Wdw trips together!!

Did I mention we also booked our January trip too? Finally going to try Royal rooms. Since I booked on 2 different promos, have 2 res. first 5 days are Royal Room. Second 5 days are regular room. Wouldn't it be nice if I could just stay in Royal room for entire trip?

 

[Marsheliz]

How sweet is Bill to snap all the pictures for you. <3 Must be nice to work in Disney. Where can I sign up? LOL

A habernero margarita and sushi? Sounds like my kind of dinner. I must go here.

 

[amandaw]

Love all the updates!

Dinner @ AP looks quite yummy. I'd like to try that soup your mom got.

Glad y'all were able to get on 7DMT without too long of a wait. We did it during MNSSHP & only waited 30 minutes. Then we had FPs for another day. I think my family is in the minority of people who actually really liked this ride. Although, there is no way I would ever wait during the ridiculous wait times for it.

Bill's pictures of the construction are great. I can't believe how much work is going on over there. And that does seem like quite the fun "work trip"!

Ok...I'll let you slide on this one. But NOT the DL trip...no way, no how!!!

Thank you! And I promise that not only will I do a DLR TR but you will be the 1st to know!

 

[kastoney]

Wow, I love the way Bill rolls. Margaritas, lapu lapu, wings, sushi, yes please and thank you!!!!

Thanks for all the construction pics. We were there in mid September and it looks like they've made a lot of progress.

 

[Lisa29]

Wow, so much constructions happening!

Really great photos Bill got for you.

 

[hstrickland]

Wow, I had no idea that much construction was happening at WL. Thanks to Bill for all the photos!

Growing pains, you could say. All necessary, though. Should be a big improvement when finished.

How nice they managed all that fun at a 'no fun' work conference seriously cool though

"All work and no play makes Jack a very dull boy..." The benefits of being close to Disney, I guess.

Good for Bill, he managed to get some fun time in. I personally couldn't be at a conference at all in WDW, and be expected to concentrate on work when I know what's out there!!! I'd be too busy visualizing myself on Big Thunder, TSMM, etc.

I totally get you! I would be the same way. Bill said since he had just been in June, it wasn't really a huge deal for him...just a bit weird riding the boat and bus without the kids laughing and yelling at each other

I actually like Bills view of the otter pond! Very peaceful. We had a courtyard view across the hall, and he's right, very convienent location near elevator that goes down to Roaring Forks, and door by pool & boat dock path

What a huge construction! Can't wait to see the new pool. I hope they keep the 2 hot tubs.

He said the location was nice. Bill's not into the whole "view" thing like I am, so the convenience factor was a big plus AND the fact that it was quiet (for the most part - minus the screaming toddler at night )

Hi! I have been in lots of pain but trying to catch up

Oh Sue...hope you aren't trying to do too much too soon. Take it easy!! Read some more Dis Play some cards....watch some TV

You have been one busy…

Pictures speak louder than words....funny, you are.

So many great photos and updates, like those funny parents in embarrassing hats and those poor starving kids looking like they're in the OFC jail with their noses pressed against the closed lounge gate. You'd think they hadn't just eaten at AP the night before. I'm not a big AP fan since we've had some service and meat quality inconsistencies there over the years. I do love being able to order off the AP menu at Territory Lounge though. Did you ever get a chance to eat/drink there? I love the memorabilia and ceiling.

Embarrassing our children is what we live for ...especially at Disney.


Service wasn't over the top at AP...nothing to write home about, that's for sure. Luckily the food was outstanding. We'll probably give it a second shot at some point. And no drinks at the TL....maybe next go round.

That was great that you got to ride right up front for 7DMT. Perfect vantage point for filming all 2:41, but if you ride it again and aren't filming, ask for the back row. They'll put you aside and you'll only wait an extra minute or so to board. The ride is a bit faster in the rear and you'll be able to more easily rock the car back and forth. Enjoyed seeing your 7DMT interactive queue photos. We've always ridden it with FP+ so we've missed that part of the experience. Is it wrong of me to be happy that we've missed that part? I'll live vicariously through your photo

While the queue is quite adorable, I'll take a FP any day!!!!

So... You're telling me to ride in the back...knowing I totally have motion sickness issues. I'll be sure to give it a go on the next trip RIGHT!

I'm off now to post the link to Bill's WL working vacation photo update. You forgot to mention that both those Lapus were his. And, about that Woods View. If he had requested a 5th floor room, he would have had a partial Wishes view. But, I don't think he was ever back in time to see that anyway

They did enjoy their night at the Poly! By the way....Bill said once you get one Lapu in the pineapple, you can get the second half price. They'll pour another one back in the pineapple.

Heather it's time to start planning next year's trip so you can see the finished product first hand. It looks like it's going to be wonderful!

The Disney cruise is already planned...however it doesn't include any park time I think my parents are going to take the kids to the BC for a few days before the Fantasy. Gonna have to sneak over there!!!

All caught up!! Did I send you our pic of Splash Mtn? Lol. We duck, all you can see us the top of our heads! That's why you're getting all wet Heather, you're not ducking ha!!

I know!!! Perhaps I need to duck. You did send that picture

When we were sitting at the POFQ food court with you waiting for my friend to arrive, that's how we met, from a Disney board! At meeting it was like we've known each other forever. Since then we've had many Wdw trips together!!

Funny how people meet online, ya know. Weird to those who don't understand the whole DisBoard thing. But who cares!? Right?!

Did I mention we also booked our January trip too? Finally going to try Royal rooms. Since I booked on 2 different promos, have 2 res. first 5 days are Royal Room. Second 5 days are regular room. Wouldn't it be nice if I could just stay in Royal room for entire trip?

Oh yay!!! The Royal Rooms are great!!! I think you'll really like them...and the location isn't bad either.

How sweet is Bill to snap all the pictures for you. Must be nice to work in Disney. Where can I sign up?

Really?! Right?! Not sure working for the Board of Education will ever land me at Disney for a work related trip

A habernero margarita and sushi? Sounds like my kind of dinner. I must go here.

Their sushi really is good and worth a visit. Can't comment on the margarita, but Bill says it was outstanding!

Love all the updates!

Dinner @ AP looks quite yummy. I'd like to try that soup your mom got.

Glad y'all were able to get on 7DMT without too long of a wait. We did it during MNSSHP & only waited 30 minutes. Then we had FPs for another day. I think my family is in the minority of people who actually really liked this ride. Although, there is no way I would ever wait during the ridiculous wait times for it.

We'll certainly ride it again....with FPs only. The kids loved it, and I did, too. Just wasn't expecting it to be so short.

Bill's pictures of the construction are great. I can't believe how much work is going on over there. And that does seem like quite the fun "work trip"!

Tons of work! But as you know, it's gonna be great when done. Or at least we hope so

Thank you! And I promise that not only will I do a DLR TR but you will be the 1st to know!

Why thank you That's gonna be such a great trip for y'all. Totally Disney but different. And Reid will be at an age where he'll remember the trip...not too young.

Wow, I love the way Bill rolls. Margaritas, lapu lapu, wings, sushi, yes please and thank you!!!!

Thanks for all the construction pics. We were there in mid September and it looks like they've made a lot of progress.

LOTS! Go ahead and book another trip so you can see the final result!!!

Wow, so much constructions happening!

Really great photos Bill got for you.

I know. Just like the Poly. But....guess it has to happen at some point. Growing pains are always irritating but a necessary evil. On the flip side...it's kinda cool to actually be there and see all the construction first hand, and to see how things are getting done. I cannot wait to see the Poly!!!! A huge change!!!!

 

[RGirl]

Hi Heather!!

So cool that Bill got construction photos for everyone! Um, that construction will be over and done with when we get there next summer, right?????

So jealous of Bill’s dinner - as I dine on popcorn while reading your trip report…..

I hope you all had a great Halloween, Heather!

You might have said this in your PreTR, but are y'all doing the DDP??? Guessing you will do AP again. What about Whispering Canyon?

And another question...did you book a courtyard view? Not that it really matters...can't imagine you being in your room much
​

We haven't actually talked dining in the PTR yet, but yes - I don't think Shannon and I could do WDW without the DxDDP at this point. It's going to be PAINFUL when the girls are "adults" for dining purposes. The money saving pretty much goes out the window at this point. Actually, this will likely be our last trip to do the DxDDP with Willow being a dining "child."

We booked standard view - I'm always cheap when I first book. And then I start changing and adding stuff.... But with a week and a half at WDW followed by a week on the Fantasy, I don't think I can afford to add ANYTHING to this trip! ​

 

[Wood Nymph]

I just found the update that you posted while we were at the WL. I always seem to miss trip report updates when I travel.

Very nice to have dinner ressies in the same resort ….especially considering the weather was less than cooperative.

WL has several good places to eat, which is one of the things we love about it. We ended up eating at Whispering Canyon Cafe three times, two breakfasts and a dinner, during our last trip and the food was good every time. One of these days we'll have to try Artist Point. Your food looks delicious.

And it’s finally our turn!! And would you believe it……GOT THE VERY FIRST CAR!!!!! Didn’t ask, didn’t request…it just happened!!! Talking about pixiedust!!

Sooooooooo glad we did the crazy-mad dash for 7DMT! Worth it for sure ….we always love a good adrenaline rush- and I’m not referring to the ride But wouldn’t do the mad dash again for this. We’ll just be sure to get a FP next time!!!

We got the first car, too, when we rode the Seven Dwarfs ride. It wasn't the fastest ride but it sure was fun. I liked not having anything in front of us as we raced down the tracks.

We had a fast pass but one of these days I would love to see all the details in the standby line.

 

[hstrickland]

Hi Heather!!

So cool that Bill got construction photos for everyone! Um, that construction will be over and done with when we get there next summer, right?????

Completely!! It will be fabulous for sure!!! No worries.

We haven't actually talked dining in the PTR yet, but yes - I don't think Shannon and I could do WDW without the DxDDP at this point. It's going to be PAINFUL when the girls are "adults" for dining purposes. The money saving pretty much goes out the window at this point. Actually, this will likely be our last trip to do the DxDDP with Willow being a dining "child."

You're right...excellent deal for kids. Not so excellent when they are in between ages - meaning adult prices but eat like a child. The next time Faith goes to Disney, she'll be an "adult" They so need "Jr." pricing

We booked standard view - I'm always cheap when I first book. And then I start changing and adding stuff.... But with a week and a half at WDW followed by a week on the Fantasy, I don't think I can afford to add ANYTHING to this trip!

Yep...bet the money tree in your backyard is quickly drying up A good upgrade is always fun...and always a must Keep looking for those discounts!!

I just found the update that you posted while we were at the WL. I always seem to miss trip report updates when I travel.

Any time we're on vacation, I say I'm going to keep up but it never happens.

WL has several good places to eat, which is one of the things we love about it. We ended up eating at Whispering Canyon Cafe three times, two breakfasts and a dinner, during our last trip and the food was good every time. One of these days we'll have to try Artist Point. Your food looks delicious.

Happy to hear the food was good! Love that place simply for the crazy wait staff. And I especially love it when guests don't realize it's a joke!!!

We got the first car, too, when we rode the Seven Dwarfs ride. It wasn't the fastest ride but it sure was fun. I liked not having anything in front of us as we raced down the tracks.

We had a fast pass but one of these days I would love to see all the details in the standby line.

Very slow...but great view of everything. If there is ever a short line (say like in 5 years) wait in the queue - super cute!!

 

[hstrickland]

Day 10
Magic Kingdom Morning
Part 1




After the very mad dash for the 7DMT, there were a few more things we wanted to do before heading over to the Animal Kingdom. Remember…it’s still early….like before 9am. The park was still fairly empty




While strolling around, we bypassed this INSANE wait time…







Seriously, people. Faith and Jesse both wanted to see these two princesses…however….fortunately for all involved, they understand the concept of time. Wasn’t gonna happen!!!



A couple of scenic shots…














Photo time with the family…


This guy was very friendly, and pretended to laugh at our corny and silly jokes (bless his heart...he was a good sport)






(pictures are huge, I know...Photobucket isn't cooperating with my Disney Photpass pics)




Open your eyes, MaHopie...








On to Buzz Lightyear. This ride needs a major overhaul – JMO. The kids still love it, but half the time it seems the “guns” don’t function properly….still fun, though.














Like I said…still fun. We’re all intent on winning













And would you look….my very favorite ride at Disney!! Big disappoint for me








Jesse and Faith spotted a makeup artist and insisted on spending their hard-earned money. Funny how one child is the “saver” and the other has issues with money burning holes in pockets. Bet ya can’t guess which child is which….













It actually was really cute, and both kids LOVED it.
















Continued to next post…




​

 

[hstrickland]

Continued from previous post….




Day 10
Magic Kingdom Morning
Part 2





What’s a morning at the MK without a quick run around the tracks???








Pop sat this one out and captured these action shots of us racing around the speedway…













Is it possible that Stephen has drifted off…sleeping behind the wheel…



“Too Cool for School” rides again…











Not sure why we always subject ourselves to this torture??? The things we do for our children!



Moving on….








Not that this ride is much better….but definitely a classic that one has to experience each trip.









So this is what we like to do on the less than adventurous/exciting rides… look for Hidden Mickeys.













Can you spot them???









Stephen loves the Hidden Mickey part of our trips!








We did several more rides, but not going to bore you with the details.



On our way back to the front of the MK via train, Stephen encountered a bit of bad luck.








Somehow, this splinter got lodged in his finger. Needless to say it caused some pain…but fortunately came out without too much complaining and yelling.




Next up….the Animal Kingdom




​

 

[Wood Nymph]

What’s a morning at the MK without a quick run around the tracks???

Pop sat this one out and captured these action shots of us racing around the speedway…

Not sure why we always subject ourselves to this torture??? The things we do for our children!

This brings back memories of when our son was young and always wanted to do the Speedway. I really hated it because I always ended up behind someone who couldn't figure out how to make the car go forward. And the gas fumes were bad, too. But we did it for the kids.

I must admit that I am very relieved that I don't have to go on this attraction anymore. Our daughter and son-in-law continued the tradition last month by taking their five year old son on the Speedway and we were very happy to wave from the grandstand.

 

[Marsheliz]

I am definitely with you on the tomorrowland speedway... I had to tell the boys we just didnt have time to do them last time.. I felt kind of bad but geez, those are slow and MK has so many more exciting things!

The kids' faces look pretty cool. I especially love the Mike Wazowski looking one!