Bunnies and mooses and groupies, Oh my!!! The Wilderness Lodge groupies thread. 4.0

[twinklebug]

This time will be a tent (for the craziest of souls).

We've stayed 10 times in a cabin since 2000 and twice in a tent. It was the only place we could afford to stay on property with a family of 6 back in the early days before we bought DVC. And with 4 boys the cabins were perfect. Lots of good memories! Now it is usually just the 4 of us--with the college kids not being able to go much.

10 times +2 - you have me beat! We stayed in a camper in '72, '76, '80, '83 ('79 didn't count as we stayed two nights and rushed home) and then attempted to stay in a cabin in 2004 for Charlie. I loved each and every time.

I'd love to try tenting and save on those weekend points but don't have a tent or the knowledge to put one up hehe... have to wait for my scout to learn how and then show mom how it's done.

Your college boys didn't complain about you not going over spring break? Mine inquired about my plans but booked himself a cruise when he realized no one would be in Disney. Where he got the money from I'm afraid to ask.

 

[blossomz]

WD. Gorgious!

 

[stopher1]

I know how Groupies like photo TR's, so here's one of our current hotel:

Not trying to make anyone jealous, mind you!!

Thanks for the kind words regarding the missing luggage. One bag made it to us tonight and we're hoping for the other one tomorrow night. If not, just another excuse for shopping!!

Very nice. I bet the fireplaces are nice and big too...

 

[stopher1]

stopher1 - Welcome back and your relaxing trip sounds heavenly! Hope to see pictures soon.

Thanks Dory - it was. I finally figured out how to get the pics off my phone today, and they were actually not too bad. I should be able to get them uploaded tomorrow and get some on here. Sorry - I'm slow right now. My laptop was sent out to our IT dept while we were gone for some needed repairs, updates, etc...was supposed to be on my desk today when I was back in the office, but nope, they forgot to ship it back! So it was going out today they said for an early AM delivery tomorrow. My DW uses our home computer pretty exclusively - but I sneaked on here now while she's reading to our sons... but I know I won't have time to upload and post as well! We do what we can.

 

[twinklebug]

Grannie - I've resisted posting a response to your "humble" accommodations up until now...
simply said... gorgeous! Ireland needs to be added to my bucket list!

Two irish quotes from my Irish/German "Aunt" Birtie (ggma hated to be called grandma):

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

A true Irishman considers anyone who won't come around to his point of view to be hopelessly stubborn.

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

I know how Groupies like photo TR's, so here's one of our current hotel:

Not trying to make anyone jealous, mind you!!

Obviously not!

Wow Granny - that's amazing!!

 

[Granny]

Be still my heart. That picture is gorgeous. How did you get it?

Hoping for the knock on the door: Luggage for Granny!

I stole the photo from a web site...no helicopter rides available here! I just searched on Dromoland Castle Google images and picked the one that I thought would make the Groupies jealous!! Thanks for the wishes for the luggage.

Granny - LOVE it! Hope you get your last bag soon.

Thanks for the luggage pixie dust.

Wow! Oh, no! I'm not jealous!.... Geez! Maybe next you'll tell me you own the place!

We asked for a quote but I'm afraid the owner isn't interested in selling.

Very nice. I bet the fireplaces are nice and big too...

Yes they are. Fortunately, we haven't needed them yet!

Grannie - I've resisted posting a response to your "humble" accommodations up until now...
simply said... gorgeous! Ireland needs to be added to my bucket list!

Two irish quotes from my Irish/German "Aunt" Birtie (ggma hated to be called grandma):

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

A true Irishman considers anyone who won't come around to his point of view to be hopelessly stubborn.

I love those quotes! I might have to use them on some locals to show off my knowledge and blend right in!

Obviously not!

Wow Granny - that's amazing!!

Thanks Kathy.

Actually, I felt a little sheepish last night after making the post. It seemed really like a "look at me aren't I great" kind of thing and I hope you all realize that I was just sharing this amazing place with you. We lucked out by going in the off-season and got a really good deal on the rooms.

 

[eliza61]

Hello fellow Groupies!!!



It is a lovely place, and all is going well except the airlines lost two of our bags. Puts a damper on the trip as we are traipsing all over Ireland and the bags haven't caught up with us yet. Oh well, another excuse for DW and DD's to go shopping!

Inkmahm...have a great trip and put the real world worries on hold for a while!!

Ouch! I read a story last week Granny about a gentlemen who is suing American airline for the return of his baggage check fees. They lost his luggage and he wants his fees return. LOL. Americans defense is that the fees are for the actual baggage handling but does not guarantee it will get to the passenger. who knew. I'll keep the fingers crossed for you guys. Enjoy!!

As usual, I have been silently keeping up with all of you and sending you best wishes and all that as I read.

I have been in and out of the hospital with my mother and I am again begging for prayers and pixie dust. She was in a couple of weeks ago for a kink in her intestine which caused a blockage. Dr took care of that and I got her home for almost a week and now she is in for a very bad blood clot in her left leg.

She is very down on all this and asking what can happen next.
I told her we will overcome and get her back home. She has been such a trooper, but as I said she gets some down moments from all this. She has only been in bed 4 months and 9 days. I would have already been a basket case. (I know, I am probably close to it!!!)



Thanks for letting me let off some steam and being such a great group of online friends.

Kathy, no begging needed whatsoever, winging the prayers up as we speak. Give your mom our best, being sick is very depressing. It's horrible when all you want to do is get well and thats the very thing that seems to take forever.
Take care of yourself also.

 

[Muushka]

Actually, I felt a little sheepish last night after making the post. It seemed really like a "look at me aren't I great" kind of thing and I hope you all realize that I was just sharing this amazing place with you. We lucked out by going in the off-season and got a really good deal on the rooms.

Oh dear! No way Granny. I think we all cheer each other on when we are able to experience something special. Gosh I remember how I was when we scored that suite on a cruise last year. Like a kid in a candy shop.

I hope I didn't come across that way! Naaaaaa. Groupies cheer on Groupies!

Got luggage?

 

[stopher1]

Oh dear! No way Granny. I think we all cheer each other on when we are able to experience something special. Gosh I remember how I was when we scored that suite on a cruise last year. Like a kid in a candy shop.

I hope I didn't come across that way! Naaaaaa. Groupies cheer on Groupies!

Got luggage?

Oh yeah Granny, I was thinking the same thing as Muushka...enjoy it, and thanks for sharing. It looks awesome.

Are you gonna post pics of the inside? Would love to see... are you in a tower room? I think that would be pretty cool.

Definitely need to add Ireland to my bucket list.

 

[tiggerrifficheidi]

I'm new to this thread, and qualify as a groupie (not an owner, sadly). We own at BLT, but our first DVC stay was at VWL on a cash reservation.

I have to get a bit long-winded and tell a funny story. My DH and I are both in the Army. I was in Iraq, and was coming home. We decided we'd get married (to do the legal thing) and then have the BIG DISNEY WEDDING on his R&R (he was leaving 5 weeks after I came home). Well, I said we needed to go to WDW to "plan" for the big wedding, so we might as well get married there.

We planned an Escape wedding with us, my BFF and her DH and DD (didn't tell any of our family about it) at Sunset Pointe at the Poly. I wanted to stay there, but since DH was calling one week out for a weekend in June (he was making the reservations as I was travelling through Kuwait), it was booked. DH had never been to WDW, but the Reservation agent offered VWL. For some reason, in DH's mind "villa" in a wilderness "lodge" translated to a shelter with a hammock and mosquito net!!! He was so worried, as he pictured me getting ready for our wedding with sweat dripping off my nose.

Needless to say, he was overwhelmed (with everything Disney, but particularly the WL and VWL). His favorite part was the W/D in the 1BR. Such a practical guy!

Anyway, we bought at BLT right before our big wedding last Jan. We've since stayed at SSR, BWV and BLT (like 'em all for different reasons), but we're very excited to be going to VWL for a split-stay (6 days 31 May-6 Jun with 5 days at OKW after).

Just wanted to come on board and proclaim my groupiness! In fact, I used the VWL lobby as an inspiration for our living room. Just wish I could buy those paintings!

 

[DisneyNutzy]

As usual, I have been silently keeping up with all of you and sending you best wishes and all that as I read.

I have been in and out of the hospital with my mother and I am again begging for prayers and pixie dust. She was in a couple of weeks ago for a kink in her intestine which caused a blockage. Dr took care of that and I got her home for almost a week and now she is in for a very bad blood clot in her left leg.

She is very down on all this and asking what can happen next.
I told her we will overcome and get her back home. She has been such a trooper, but as I said she gets some down moments from all this. She has only been in bed 4 months and 9 days. I would have already been a basket case. (I know, I am probably close to it!!!)

Everyone that is headed on vacation, have a great time. Those in other countries, behave yourselves and have a great learning experience!! And everyone else, I hope you have a great week!

Thanks for letting me let off some steam and being such a great group of online friends.

Kathy - Best wishes to your mom for a speedy recovery.

I know how Groupies like photo TR's, so here's one of our current hotel:

Not trying to make anyone jealous, mind you!!

Thanks for the kind words regarding the missing luggage. One bag made it to us tonight and we're hoping for the other one tomorrow night. If not, just another excuse for shopping!!

Granny - WOW! Looks amazing.

This time will be a tent (for the craziest of souls).

We've stayed 10 times in a cabin since 2000 and twice in a tent. It was the only place we could afford to stay on property with a family of 6 back in the early days before we bought DVC. And with 4 boys the cabins were perfect. Lots of good memories! Now it is usually just the 4 of us--with the college kids not being able to go much.

Dory - My wife and daughter are such city girls they didn't believe me when I told them people tent camp at the Fort. When we were checking out of the cabins last trip I drove through the tent loop to prove it to them. Let's just say you are much braver than they are. I don't think I will have them tent camping anytime soon, though I would love to.

Tiggerrifficheidi - Welcome to the Groupie thread and a heartfelt thank you to you and your husband for your service to our country.

 

[Inkmahm]

As usual, I have been silently keeping up with all of you and sending you best wishes and all that as I read.

I have been in and out of the hospital with my mother and I am again begging for prayers and pixie dust. She was in a couple of weeks ago for a kink in her intestine which caused a blockage. Dr took care of that and I got her home for almost a week and now she is in for a very bad blood clot in her left leg.

She is very down on all this and asking what can happen next.
I told her we will overcome and get her back home. She has been such a trooper, but as I said she gets some down moments from all this. She has only been in bed 4 months and 9 days. I would have already been a basket case. (I know, I am probably close to it!!!)

Everyone that is headed on vacation, have a great time. Those in other countries, behave yourselves and have a great learning experience!! And everyone else, I hope you have a great week!

Thanks for letting me let off some steam and being such a great group of online friends.

Thanks for the good wishes, everyone. My interview yesterday went very well so I am encouraged. Tonight I see family for the funeral. Not exactly fun, but still I like seeing people that I haven't seen in awhile.

Twokats, best wishes for your mom and better health days ahead. Hang in there!

 

[Dizny Dad]

I'm new to this thread, and qualify as a groupie (not an owner, sadly). We own at BLT, but our first DVC stay was at VWL on a cash reservation.

I have to get a bit long-winded and tell a funny story. My DH and I are both in the Army. I was in Iraq, and was coming home. We decided we'd get married (to do the legal thing) and then have the BIG DISNEY WEDDING on his R&R (he was leaving 5 weeks after I came home). Well, I said we needed to go to WDW to "plan" for the big wedding, so we might as well get married there.

We planned an Escape wedding with us, my BFF and her DH and DD (didn't tell any of our family about it) at Sunset Pointe at the Poly. I wanted to stay there, but since DH was calling one week out for a weekend in June (he was making the reservations as I was travelling through Kuwait), it was booked. DH had never been to WDW, but the Reservation agent offered VWL. For some reason, in DH's mind "villa" in a wilderness "lodge" translated to a shelter with a hammock and mosquito net!!! He was so worried, as he pictured me getting ready for our wedding with sweat dripping off my nose.

Needless to say, he was overwhelmed (with everything Disney, but particularly the WL and VWL). His favorite part was the W/D in the 1BR. Such a practical guy!

Anyway, we bought at BLT right before our big wedding last Jan. We've since stayed at SSR, BWV and BLT (like 'em all for different reasons), but we're very excited to be going to VWL for a split-stay (6 days 31 May-6 Jun with 5 days at OKW after).

Just wanted to come on board and proclaim my groupiness! In fact, I used the VWL lobby as an inspiration for our living room. Just wish I could buy those paintings!

Welcome to the GROUPIES!

All that is needed to be here is a love for our wonderful VWL! So enjoy the conversations, and the appreciation for each other, here on this thread.

And I want to thank you both for your Service to our country! Without your service, all that we know and take for granted would be gone in an instant. Thanks for providing, protecting, and caring.

Your story brought chills to my heart! What a great story! Thanks for sharing it with us!

DS returned from Iraq at the end of December and is getting married in June. No WDW wedding, but Hawaii will due. This suits DW and I just fine. You have no idea how well this fits into our lives . . . . I have plenty of mints. . . .

 

[twokats]

Thanks to everyone for the prayers and wishes.

The DR told Mom that he wanted her to stand on her leg and hang it over the side of the bed. That is great news!! He might be possibly sending her home before the end of the week. He told her he wants to talk to me first. (He is also my dr)

Welcome to tiggerrifficheidi. I also thank you. I have a son (now in the National Guard after quite a few years in the Army) who served several tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Glad to have you around.

Granny, the picture is amazing and I agree that we also need to see inside pics.

 

[tiggerrifficheidi]

Welcome to the GROUPIES!

All that is needed to be here is a love for our wonderful VWL! So enjoy the conversations, and the appreciation for each other, here on this thread.

And I want to thank you both for your Service to our country! Without your service, all that we know and take for granted would be gone in an instant. Thanks for providing, protecting, and caring.

Your story brought chills to my heart! What a great story! Thanks for sharing it with us!

DS returned from Iraq at the end of December and is getting married in June. No WDW wedding, but Hawaii will due. This suits DW and I just fine. You have no idea how well this fits into our lives . . . . I have plenty of mints. . . .

Welcome to tiggerrifficheidi. I also thank you. I have a son (now in the National Guard after quite a few years in the Army) who served several tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Glad to have you around.

Thanks! It's so great that we get such support! Since DH and I did back-to-backs in Iraq, I, too, have decided to go the part-time route (after 12 years active). So, I'm in the Reserves and we're at Ft. Leavenworth, KS while DH goes to school.

And Hawaii sounds great! Too bad the DVC isn't built yet.

 

[Disney loving Iowan]

Oh dear! No way Granny. I think we all cheer each other on when we are able to experience something special. Gosh I remember how I was when we scored that suite on a cruise last year. Like a kid in a candy shop.

I hope I didn't come across that way! Naaaaaa. Groupies cheer on Groupies!

Got luggage?

Well said Muushka!

I'm new to this thread, and qualify as a groupie (not an owner, sadly). We own at BLT, but our first DVC stay was at VWL on a cash reservation.
Just wanted to come on board and proclaim my groupiness! In fact, I used the VWL lobby as an inspiration for our living room. Just wish I could buy those paintings!

Welcome!!!!! You will love this thread! Thanks for the story. From someone who grew up as an Army brat thank you both very much for your service!!

Thanks to everyone for the prayers and wishes.

The DR told Mom that he wanted her to stand on her leg and hang it over the side of the bed. That is great news!! He might be possibly sending her home before the end of the week. He told her he wants to talk to me first. (He is also my dr)

That is great news! Glad for letting us know!

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

Actually, I felt a little sheepish last night after making the post. It seemed really like a "look at me aren't I great" kind of thing and I hope you all realize that I was just sharing this amazing place with you. We lucked out by going in the off-season and got a really good deal on the rooms.

But Granny, if we don't see pictures how can we decide where to use our points. We can use our points, can't we? We like the sharing!

Welcome to the Groupies tiggerrifficheidi! That's a great story about your DH and his concern b/c he thought he'd booked you into a tent. lol And I also will add my thanks for the service you both have done for our country!

 

[DVCGeek]

A true Irishman considers anyone who won't come around to his point of view to be hopelessly stubborn.

I LOVE that one! and I happen to be about 3/16ths Irish, so that's probably enough to be true...

Actually, I felt a little sheepish last night after making the post. It seemed really like a "look at me aren't I great" kind of thing and I hope you all realize that I was just sharing this amazing place with you.

You aren't at our beloved Lodge, not even at Disney from what I can tell- looks like the entirely wrong castle... and wrong country for that matter! What would be be so 'great' about that? But I'm still glad you seem to be having a good time.

Truth be told, I wouldn't mind going to Ireland someday, as long i still got at least two Disney trips in that year! DW & I have several non-Disney trips to take when convenient; for one thing we want to go to all 50 states together!

 

[Granny]

Hey everyone...thanks for the ever-present Groupie support!

Our second lost bag turned up this evening. So about 2 1/2 days without that one. Like I said, DW took it as an opportunity to go shopping especially since I informed her that I had bought trip insurance which included baggage delays. She got a great Irish sweater today (before the bag got delivered).

I'll post interior room photos (pretty awesome too) but for now you can get a feel for it by going to the hotel web site. Here's a direct link to the type of room we ended up with. Dromoland Castle Hotel Luxury Room

My daughters also have a similar room which they were able to get adjoined to us with a common door. So the room accommodations couldn't be much better than this.

Tomorrow we are driving into Limerick for the St. Patrick's Day Parade. Should be quite a zoo with 60,000 people expected. That doesn't sound like much but for a city the size of Limerick (35,000 pop) it pretty much ties up the entire town. Hopefully we can get close enough to park somewhere and get into the town to see the parade.

Thanks again all for the support and wishes.