Break out the bubbly and warn the waiters...she's coming back!

[TarzansKat]

I'm not sure everything is 100% solidified- we are just in uber giddy planning mode - but the idea we are tossing around is meeting up in Epcot at some time to be determined on Friday. I had said getting a henna tattoo is something I wanted to do and a few others expressed interest too!

I have a feeling we're going to need our own website ala Mousefest to track/chart all of the various meet and greets this week. As far as I'm concerned, the more the merrier for all of it! I was excited before but now I really am almost too excited to sleep!

Wow.

Just think of how dead the DIS will be with all of us down there at the same time.

I'm definitely down for getting a henna tattoo, if you'll have me. We're in DHS that day, and I'm not sure how that's going to pan out. We have a lot we want to do in that park, so let me know whenever you figure out what relative time you're all thinking of meeting.

At the very least, I'll have met you the day before at tea!

 

[MRYPPNS]

Do you all think someone should start a thread to discuss our potential meets so we're not all clogging up everyone's PTR's and TR with this? I'd be happy to do it. All this chatter about meets for later in the week is sort of disorganized and my ocd is flaring up I say later in the week because it seems that Jen, Paula, Christine and LL are all set for their meets for early that week (is that correct?). We could go day by day and everyone could propose something, and go from there and get a consenus.

Personally my biggest thing is that I never want to seem like I'm inviting myself to anyone's party.

What do you think about that idea ladies??

 

[TarzansKat]

Do you all think someone should start a thread to discuss our potential meets so we're not all clogging up everyone's PTR's and TR with this? I'd be happy to do it. All this chatter about meets for later in the week is sort of disorganized and my ocd is flaring up I say later in the week because it seems that Jen, Paula, Christine and LL are all set for there meets for early that week (is that correct?). We could go day by day and everyone could propose something go from there and get a consenus.

Personally my biggest thing is that I never want to seem like I'm inviting myself to anyone's party.

What do you think about that idea ladies??

Heidi, I think that's a great idea. I'm starting to get confused about who's going when, and what's going on when, and a thread specifically devoted to the meets would definitely be helpful for me.

I'm probably one of the least flexible people given that I'm traveling with my family, so it'd be nice to have all the info in one place.

 

[jenjolt]

I'm pretty sure the philosophy right now is the more the merrier but yes we probably should bring some organization to this chaos!!!! There are a variety of different meets that are occuring so if you can't make one there is another one you can come too...its not a big deal at all!!! Heidi I think starting a thread is a great idea!!!

Happy 4th C!! I hope you are able to get some sunshine and enjoy a relaxful day and read a good book!!!!

 

[2xcited2sleep]

I just checked and the flight time that I am hoping to get departs MCO at 6:25PM so that gives me plenty of time on Friday to meet up for World Showcase fun! I'm really excited about the Henna tattoos!

That's great, LL! Luckily enough Morocco is adjacent to France and the champagne/slushie stand!

Wow.

Just think of how dead the DIS will be with all of us down there at the same time.

I'm definitely down for getting a henna tattoo, if you'll have me. We're in DHS that day, and I'm not sure how that's going to pan out. We have a lot we want to do in that park, so let me know whenever you figure out what relative time you're all thinking of meeting.

At the very least, I'll have met you the day before at tea!

You're right. Parts of the DIS will be slow without us. I may try to bring my laptop to do some quick live updates. And I think some others have gotten into twittering so hopefully we can have a play at home version too for those who can't come this time!

Would love to have you join us - the more the merrier! Epcot WS is just a relatively quick walk from DHS!

Do you all think someone should start a thread to discuss our potential meets so we're not all clogging up everyone's PTR's and TR with this? I'd be happy to do it. All this chatter about meets for later in the week is sort of disorganized and my ocd is flaring up I say later in the week because it seems that Jen, Paula, Christine and LL are all set for their meets for early that week (is that correct?). We could go day by day and everyone could propose something, and go from there and get a consenus.

Personally my biggest thing is that I never want to seem like I'm inviting myself to anyone's party.

What do you think about that idea ladies??

Oh, you DIS'ers and your OCD! That sounds like a fine idea. I actually just started a spreadsheet to try to keep track of everyone. Maybe I have a little OCD in me too!

As far as I'm concerned neither you nor anyone else needs an invitation to join anything. I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to meet so many people I "talk to" so regularly here on the boards. And similarly, I'm not going to be offended if I/we are doing things that don't interest some.

I know we all have individual trip priorities too so I imagine we'll all kind of come and go based on the day and what we're "feeling." A general idea of who's in town and when with some general plans would be helpful.

Oh and yes, J, P, LL and I are there earlier in the week. I arrive on Thurs 9/24, Jen on Saturday, LL on Sunday and Paula on Monday. *I think.* In terms of being "all set"- we have made some plans and ADRs but nothing that can't be expanded! And probably nothing that won't change a few times between now and then.

Heidi, I think that's a great idea. I'm starting to get confused about who's going when, and what's going on when, and a thread specifically devoted to the meets would definitely be helpful for me.

I'm probably one of the least flexible people given that I'm traveling with my family, so it'd be nice to have all the info in one place.

Well we don't want you to be confused!

 

[2xcited2sleep]

I'm pretty sure the philosophy right now is the more the merrier but yes we probably should bring some organization to this chaos!!!! There are a variety of different meets that are occuring so if you can't make one there is another one you can come too...its not a big deal at all!!! Heidi I think starting a thread is a great idea!!!

Happy 4th C!! I hope you are able to get some sunshine and enjoy a relaxful day and read a good book!!!!

The clouds just started rolling in. Grrr. But I'm so giddy with Disney excitement that it almost doesn't matter.

 

[Lady Lallie]

I think it's a great idea to have a thread for everything.

The sun keep peeking out but it's not really staying at the moment.

 

[Charleston Princess]

The more the merrier is my thought, too.

We definitely need an official thread or something because my OCD is currently going because I need to see everything visually and in one place.

 

[MRYPPNS]

Ok, I'll start a thread tonight or tomorrow for all this and try to keep stuff organized.

How's this for a title?
Everything's More Fun with a Grey Goose Slushie and Friends

 

[Lady Lallie]

Love the title, Heidi!

 

[2xcited2sleep]

Very cute, Heidi!

 

[Charleston Princess]

Love the title, Heidi!

 

[2xcited2sleep]

I am getting gid-gid-giddy-up-giddy for Food & Wine! As I think I mentioned previously, I really don’t consider myself a foodie. Not extremely adventurous – although I surprise myself by liking things when I work up the courage to try it. Which is why F&W is so perfect – I can try a small portion for a *relatively* reasonable price and see if I like it and if I don’t, I don’t feel badly throwing it out.

Wine is another story – I like it. All of it. And would almost never waste it. But I’m not particularly knowledgeable or discerning. But, in a nutshell, I like to eat and drink… so this is the event for me!

Last year, I didn’t do any special/extra events. I just enjoyed the booths around World Showcase and did catch a free demo or two. These were all great. I do, however, think I need a better plan of attack this year. Last year I went later into the festival so had the benefit of some TR’s pointing out the hits and misses. This year, I’m the pioneer. Hopefully the festival guide will come out a few days before so I can study. And I will happily deliver reports to the lucky DISers who are going later in Oct/Nov!

Memories:

Hmmm… apparently I didn’t take any photos of the booths?? How did that happen? I promise to do better this time. I am taking my role as advance scout very seriously.

I will throw in one of my favorite pics – taken almost by accident (one handed) after a serious day of eating and drinking. Fat, tipsy and happy – there is nothing better than Illuminations.

Let’s hope for some more happy accidents this year!

So in addition to the booths, I am considering doing some “extras” this year.

Celebrating with Family & Friends in the Kitchen
Sept. 26 The Deen Family: Paula, Bobby and Jamie

Learn how to prepare a 3-course lunch from appetizer, to main course, and finally dessert, as presented by a team of highly acclaimed culinary experts. Also, an emcee will host the demonstration and a wine expert will be on hand to pair each course with their favorite wine. $110 10am-12pm​

Two things about this give me pause. That it’s the first Saturday of F&W (holy crowds!) and the $110 price tag but I am a Food Network devotee and would love to see my friend Paula Deen and her sons. Even if it is in that pathetic palm tree area. All I know is if I’m in the back and others are sticking their heads through the palm fronds there’s going to be an issue. I do also realize that getting these tix is very competitive so who knows if I'll even get in!

Eat to the Beat Concert Series (free!)

Jen has agreed to see Big Bad Voodoo Daddy with me on Saturday night. Followed by dinner at Rose & Crown and Illuminations! “You & Me & the Bottle Makes Three!”

Food & Wine Pairings
Three sample-size dishes perfectly paired with a wine from the same region as chosen by the wine expert on hand – a culinary match made in heaven.
Saturdays from 2:30 to 4:00 pm Tutto Italia Ristorante
Mondays from 3:30 to 5:00 pm Tokyo Dining
Tuesdays from 3:30 to 5:00 pm Restaurant Marrakesh
Wednesdays from 3:30 5:00 pm San Angel Inn

The San Angel Inn event tempts me. A lot. But I already have a lot of eating scheduled that day – lunch at Chefs at noon and dinner at Yachtsman at 7. Can I fit any more food in? It does say “sample size” What do you think? It’s also $60/person so I’m conscious of my budget such as it is. I do need to ensure I have $ left over for slushies and champagne!!

Sweet Sundays
Sunday brunch with cakes, pastries, and other sweetly decadent desserts topped off with champagne of course $80/person
Sept. 27 Andrew Schotts

I’m not a sweets person so I think I’ll pass on this – despite the promise of champagne!

Cheese Seminars
Seminars take place at the Festival Welcome Center in the Wonders Pavilion every Saturday throughout the festival from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Prices are still being finalized but approximately $75 per person plus tax
Sept. 26 Spain Waldemar Albrecht

Now I adore wine and cheese. Seriously I do. And I’m not unwilling to pay for these events. But $75? Maybe I’m missing the level of detail that they go into? I do however hope that the cheese kiosk is back this year (and still conveniently across from the Reims champagne booth)!!

Wine Walks ($20 for two adults) bring the tastes of European wines to your palate without ever leaving the country. You will indulge in the tastes of Italy, France, and Germany with six 2-ounce glasses of wine, two from each region.

These sound like they are worth trying! I think they may offer these even during non F&W times?

Wine School

Have you ever wondered about which wine to serve with a particular dish or how to tell the difference in wines and taste them properly? If you answered yes, then you must attend one of the Epcot Wine School lectures offered at the Welcome Center Retreat. Each lecture will be facilitated by a wine expert who will review the various traditions in wine making, drinking and tasting. Upon completion of the course, you will attend a celebration where you will be presented with your own "Certificate of Completion" making you a true wine connoisseur. Seminars will take place only on three days from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. followed by lunch from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. Schedule and subject are as follows:
October 3 - TBD

Sadly can’t try this as it’s departure day and I don’t want to spend it in school. But it does sound like it could be cool.

Party for the Senses

I have not tried this yet and won’t this time (dinner at R&C instead). But I really do wish I’d be there for the night of 10/3 for comfort foods with a twist! That sounds potentially yummy. It also sounds encouraging that they are offering (for $, of course!) a “private” lounge with reserve seating as I’ve seen other TRs that describe the rush at “rope drop” as equivalent to the running of the bulls and that you need to guard your seats (if you’re lucky enough to get them) all night.

Are any of you trying PFTS?

Some other freebies:

Flavorhood is your ice cream neighborhood! Sprawling out along the "Rose Walk" just outside the Imagination Pavilion, this venue offers ice cream in all the flavors plus you can learn about your own "ice cream personality."

Might be cool?

History of Beer in America will teach you about the science of brewing beer and its history in America. Each day at the American Adventure Courtyard, daily seminars will take place at 12:30, 1:15, 2:45, 4:15, 5:15, and 6:30 p.m.

I’m equal opportunity alcohol. Beer tastes good on a hot day!

Taste of Puglia, Italy offers lovers of everything Italian an introduction to the chefs and wines made famous from this region located in southern Italy. You will learn about the history of the olive oils and pastas that Puglia is well known for and have the opportunity to purchase authentic Italian products.

I saw this last year and it was very interesting. I loved just listening to the chef’s accent. He went into lots of detail on how to make homemade pasta- not sure I would do that at home but it was very interesting. I thought I had a better picture but I guess not.

So all in all I am quite excited (if you couldn't tell) about my 2nd Food & Wine.

Some lessons learned from last time:

* The wristlet gift card is very convenient (not to mention doesn't feel like real $) but is also helpful to have some emergency cash on hand. B/C I'd hate to walk away from booze b/c the machine goes on the fritz.
* The Festival Center opens at 9am. And, at least last year, served a very economical (and yummy) glass of Prosecco for ~$4 (vs. the $8 glasses of champagne)
* You can more than make a meal from noshing around the World
* Weekends are VERY crowded. Great people watching, though.

F&W vets... any other tips?

 

[Lady Lallie]

I know almost nothing about F&W but am so excited to be there during it. Do you have any websites that have good information for me to look at? I'd appreciate anything you've got!

The wine walk and the history of beer sound very interesting!

I still love that picture you took of Illuminations last year.

 

[2xcited2sleep]

I know almost nothing about F&W but am so excited to be there during it. Do you have any websites that have good information for me to look at? I'd appreciate anything you've got!

The wine walk and the history of beer sound very interesting!

I still love that picture you took of Illuminations last year.

Here's the "official" thread here on the DIS

Within it are a variety of links.

Here are some unofficial descriptions from the Examiner which seem to be accurate

2008 info from wdwinfo

AllEars Info - tons of reviews/info in the menu along the left hand side


I think you'll really like it! And if you don't, more for me!

 

[Flossbolna]

Wow, all these events sound very interesting. If you do the wine walking tour, I will be very interested in hearing which German wines they do serve!

 

[Lady Lallie]

Here's the "official" thread here on the DIS

Within it are a variety of links.

Here are some unofficial descriptions from the Examiner which seem to be accurate

2008 info from wdwinfo

AllEars Info - tons of reviews/info in the menu along the left hand side


I think you'll really like it! And if you don't, more for me!

Thank you for the links! I'm off to explore!

 

[brookelizabeth]

Interesting. I have the TIW card too but they didn't ask about that anywhere while booking my ADRs either online or by phone. I usually only present that when the check comes.

I can't believe they would put DVC at the bottom of the list?! How does that make any sense! Please let us know if you talk to Disney and get any scoop.

If my $24K DVC investment results in me being at the BOTTOM of the list... I must say I will be thoroughly TICKED


but I'm beginning to think that it doesn't suprise me.... They have our $$ already... why would they care if we are PO'd

Paula

I'm really glad to hear they didn't ask for your TiW card when making the ADRs! That is a good sign. Really though, I don't think Disney would decline anyone the discount even if the ADR was made without the card-how awful would that be?

Anyway, I haven't heard back from Disney yet on it....I will keep you posted if/when I do though!

Sometimes at night I have trouble going to sleep. Trouble turning my brain off from work and other stuff and just getting some rest. So what is my favorite topic to turn my brain toward? Disney planning, of course!

You are certainly not alone! I am usually thinking about our schedule, "must do's" and the food! I like your ABC game though, I'm gonna have to try that one out.

I am a lucky girl for many reasons. But one specifically that I’m thinking of right now. And that is because of all of the friends who I have met because of this community.

This was such a sweet post! I'm so excited for you all---and jealous that I'm going to miss everyone by a couple weeks. BUT, it's gonna rock for you ladies! I'm looking forward to the TRs when you get back!

* Spaceship Earth (I giggle every time I see the lady with the yellow tights- in fact was considering this as a MNSSHP costume)


NEVER DONE

* Turtle Talk with Crush

Are you still consdiering being the gal in the yellow tights?

Turtle Talk is really adorable, and hilarious!!

* Weekends are VERY crowded. Great people watching, though.

Love that picture!!

We went on the last Saturday in 2008, holy cowsers, it was nuts! Long lines for everything and no where to sit and enjoy your snack.

 

[jenjolt]

Thank you for the links C!! It will give me something to do in the next couple of days. Like LL I had no idea what all Food and Wine entailed and had no clue about all of the events...thanks for sharing!!!!!!

I can't wait for our concert and R&C night...its going to be great!!!

 

[MRYPPNS]

his year, I’m the pioneer. Hopefully the festival guide will come out a few days before so I can study. And I will happily deliver reports to the lucky DISers who are going later in Oct/Nov!

They will be very happy for your scouting reports....I know read the early reports before our trip the last weekend of October last year.

Celebrating with Family & Friends in the Kitchen
Sept. 26 The Deen Family: Paula, Bobby and Jamie

Remind me to do my Paula Deen impersonation for you. "If it's not made with a biscuit, butter and sugar why eat it?"

Eat to the Beat Concert Series (free!)

When I'm there it's Starship. Yuck. If I hear We Built this City while I'm there it won't be pretty. Better get me another glass of bubbly.

Sweet Sundays
Sunday brunch with cakes, pastries, and other sweetly decadent desserts topped off with champagne of course $80/person
Sept. 27 Andrew Schotts

I’m not a sweets person so I think I’ll pass on this – despite the promise of champagne!

$80 will buy you a nice bottle of champagne.

I do however hope that the cheese kiosk is back this year (and still conveniently across from the Reims champagne booth)!!

That was excellent last year.

Are any of you trying PFTS?

No.Too much $$$

Some other freebies:

Flavorhood is your ice cream neighborhood! Sprawling out along the "Rose Walk" just outside the Imagination Pavilion, this venue offers ice cream in all the flavors plus you can learn about your own "ice cream personality."

ahhhhhh....that sounds like my kind of 'hood!

F&W vets... any other tips?

If you don't like it ....throw it away. Better to save your tummy for the next booth than waste calories.

Plan more than one day to nosh around the booths.

Don't be afraid of new spices....you might surprise yourself.

Keep your eyes open for Celebrity Chefs...you just might meet one on accident.