DIS Dads DDC XXXI: Nice to have Friends Around the Globe, Even Tim! Happy Holidays!

[Goofy + 3]

For her 16th birthday, I sprung for a weekend for a GV at the Boardwalk with 6 of her friends. Talk about luxurious. One of these days I would like to do it again.

You took 7 teenage girls to Disney? Are you stupid nuts?!?

 

[USAFdad]

Good morning everyone. Work today for me I was supposed to get 4 days off but since its a holiday one of my coworkers could not find child care so here I am. The positive side is that I have the next 2 days off.

Alex, praying for a good future for you.

Thank you. we are choosing to stay positive about it. I am set to deploy so apart from being away from my family it's easy tax free money. We are looking at it this way I find out if I get to stay in the military in September. If I do when I get back from the deployment we take a big trip to disney and stay at a deluxe..... or we have a nice nest egg when I get kicked out.... but like I said I'm staying positive.

 

[BigTikiDaddy]

Ahh finally, our houseguest has left. DW's friend from Orillia decided to stop by for the weekend, making a cramped home even tighter. I just hate it when DW "forgets" to tell me when people are staying over.

3,000!

Thanks, I didn't even notice. I suppose this call for some kind of speech, but despite the post count I really don't have much to say other than it has been a pleasure knowing you all, may you have more hump days than Wednesdays, and may your Golden Years find you at Golden Oak.

Good speech! Congrats!

 

[AirGoofy]

It's chore day at our house. I've assigned myself the chore of protecting the family from squirrels and bears. If any show up, then I'm ready.

You took 7 teenage girls to Disney? Are you stupid nuts?!?

Obviously a rhetorical question, since you're asking CJ.

Thank you. we are choosing to stay positive about it. I am set to deploy so apart from being away from my family it's easy tax free money. We are looking at it this way I find out if I get to stay in the military in September. If I do when I get back from the deployment we take a big trip to disney and stay at a deluxe..... or we have a nice nest egg when I get kicked out.... but like I said I'm staying positive.

That is a good way to look at it. Safe travels.

Ahh finally, our houseguest has left. DW's friend from Orillia decided to stop by for the weekend, making a cramped home even tighter. I just hate it when DW "forgets" to tell me when people are staying over!

I remember housing several families as a child, but neither DW nor I have ever done so in our own home. Most ALL of her family is within a 2 hour drive (one more reason to move to Florida), so that has never happened.

.
On Friday night, DD's hoops team won 25-7 over a good team. We played really good defense and DD had 8 points and a ton of rebounds to lead us in scoring.

On Saturday, DS and his teammates took game 1 of the weekend on a running 3 pointer by a teammate at the buzzer in OT to win the game. Really good game of back and forth for the entire time.

On Sunday, DS's team had to play a team in a division higher than us. OUr weaker players really struggled, making it a hard game to compete in, but we played well overall and ended up losing by 2. DS was the game high scoring with 18 points (5-3's), 8 assists and grabbed 7 rebounds. By far his best game of the season. It was great to see him step up to the higher competition.
.

Congrats to both on playing well. I know everyone likes to win when they play sports, but it is important that they learn to continue developing their skills.

3,000!
Thanks, I didn't even notice. I suppose this call for some kind of speech, but despite the post count I really don't have much to say other than it has been a pleasure knowing you all, may you have more hump days than Wednesdays, and may your Golden Years find you at Golden Oak.

Bravo.

 

[that's nice]

For all you runners out there. I started the Nemesis III running thread. HERE!!!!


Even if you aren't a runner, feel free to challenge your nemesis to run in the 2015 marathon… that's how this whole thing got started.

 

[RodBelding]

For all you runners out there. I started the Nemesis III running thread. HERE!!!!


Even if you aren't a runner, feel free to challenge your nemesis to run in the 2015 marathon… that's how this whole thing got started.

Given how quickly the races have sold out in the last few years, people will need to commit early, leaving plenty of time for trash talk...

 

[mm1971]

3,000!

Thanks, I didn't even notice. I suppose this call for some kind of speech, but despite the post count I really don't have much to say other than it has been a pleasure knowing you all, may you have more hump days than Wednesdays, and may your Golden Years find you at Golden Oak.

Congrats on the milestone!

You took 7 teenage girls to Disney? Are you stupid nuts?!?

Well, we already know the answer to that question, don't we?

Good Morning CJ. I bet your just sitting there trying to come up with some words of wisdom for Paul and I this morning.

 

[mm1971]

Given how quickly the races have sold out in the last few years, people will need to commit early, leaving plenty of time for trash talk...

How did your run go? Looked like everyone had a good time from the pictures. Sorry I missed it. Let me know what your schedule looks like and when you get caught up, we'll schedule a lunch. I am away mid February so it would have to be before that or not until March.

 

[theduck619]

Mornin' Guys!

Here's hoping these next 5 days between us and the weekend fly by!

Yes, let us hope so....

I'll say it right now... If I could lose 35 pounds, I would run a marathon.

But I feel pretty safe knowing that ain't gonna happen.



I agree 100%. And this is why I'll never lose 35 pounds.

You should be a personal trainer with that kind of motivation

 

[that's nice]

Given how quickly the races have sold out in the last few years, people will need to commit early, leaving plenty of time for trash talk...

True. People will have to commit by mid June, if I remember correctly.

I think I'm in for the 10K and 1/2.

 

[afwdwfan]

True. People will have to commit by mid June, if I remember correctly.

I think I'm in for the 10K and 1/2.

Come on Tim, if you're gonna go, go big. Dopey or bust!

 

[that's nice]

Come on Tim, if you're gonna go, go big. Dopey or bust!

I'll do it if you do it.

 

[declansdad]

It's chore day at our house. I've assigned myself the chore of protecting the family from squirrels and bears. If any show up, then I'm ready.

Do you have your squirrel gun handy?

 

[afwdwfan]

I'll do it if you do it.

Ain't a snowball's chance in hell...

Besides, I hope to be in San Diego the weekend you're running in WDW and hopefully in Disneyland when you're flying home.

 

[cj9200]

The birthday girl wants me to thank everyone for their birthday wishes. To celebrate, she did homework last night. Today though, she is going to the city with some friends.

You took 7 teenage girls to Disney? Are you stupid nuts?!?

Obviously a rhetorical question, since you're asking CJ.

Yes, I am.

Given how quickly the races have sold out in the last few years, people will need to commit early, leaving plenty of time for trash talk...

You have to come down for the challenge with Carl. That would be classic no matter which way it turns out.

Good Morning CJ. I bet your just sitting there trying to come up with some words of wisdom for Paul and I this morning.

Nah, Good season for the Pats blah blah. Although I do wish the live podcast was a week later so Paul and I would have watched the game together. Congrats to the kids on their latest BB games.

 

[cj9200]

Dopey accomplished, it was time for a little R&R at the room, some nap time and then primping to get ready for the big dinner at the remodeled California Grill.

She decided to lay out all her shirts and medals


The shirts were really well done but we were both less than enthusiastic about the medal designs. The all gold way most of them were done was uninspiring. Not that she is going to give any of them back.

What Dopey runners are wearing for a night out on the town, a dress, two knee braces and compression socks. And of course a Dopey medal around her neck.


Check in was smooth, given our pager and we went to look for a seat to wait to be called. About 10 feet from the host platform, our pager went off. They sat us at a window table, Win for us.


I like the new layout of the CG. Seems much more open, the windows are bigger and the restaurant has an overall modern feel.











Stephen was our waiter and he was good; attentive, funny, and not a hoverer. First course was one of Andriana’s must do food items at the World, the Cheese Plate.


Wishes time and we headed out to the new balcony that is on the left side of the restaurant. We were standing by the door and before the fireworks, it was a nice view.








But when the fireworks started, the building blocked the them. Even if you were down at the end, the point of view is off. The fireworks are way to the right of the castle so it doesn’t offer the same perspective as you get from the other side.

The Pirate Princess and I decided to go back inside and take advantage of the window seat. For the first time in a long time, I put the camera down and enjoyed the show. I was reminiscing about the last time SIL was our guest at the CG. It was the kid’s 5th birthday and SIL, my not then Ex, and both sets of Grandparents were there. it was the last time all of us were together as a group. Since then, five are no longer with us. I know SIL was thinking about that and was pretty emotional by the end of the show. They do need to improve the ventilation of the place because some of the smoke from the fireworks got in my eyes.

After another round of drinks were ordered, the food was delivered. I heard mixed reviews about the food early on so I was a bit worried. No need, everyone said their entree was delicious.

SIL’s Oak-fired Filet of Beef - Heirloom Tomato Risotto, Marinated Baby Vine Tomatoes, Petite Basil, Tomato Butter $49


Of course, it was the most expensive thing on the menu. She did say before she ordered that was what she was looking at and was worried about the price. I told her like anyone else, as our guest, there was no limit on what you have for dinner. I would have balked if she ordered a $1,500 bottle of wine however. Her review, “Excellent.”

They do this thing at the Grill for vegetarians where chefs at each station choose a dish and it is presented as a four course plate. It is not on the menu so you have to ask for it. DD was glad they kept that tradition going, as it is one of her favorite meals anywhere. Stephen told her what was on the plate but I forgot what it was $22


My choice was the Pork Two Ways - Grilled Tenderloin, Goat Cheese Polenta, Mushrooms, Lacquered Belly, Applesauce $37


OK, the pork at Captain’s Grille was good. Very good. This blew it away. The tenderloin was perfect and the belly was a slice of heaven. Think a thick hunk of the best bacon you ever tasted. Wow.

No deserts because SIL brought Red Velvet cake for an early birthday cake for the soon to be birthday girl.

On the way out, couldn’t resist a few more pictures. The celebrity was tired of it by now but too bad.


Back to the room for dessert where we were constantly reminded how great the cake was (it was good) even though it was expensive, just not that expensive. The Cheetah and I just rolled our eyes.

I did the kid’s laundry while they were snoring and set a 5:30 wake up call. Going to be nice to sleep in for a change. The next morning she packed up and I took her to the airport. Disney vacation over for her and so was her Christmas break. Flight took off at 8:00 and she was back in Jersey at 10:30. Her first class was 3:30 that day. One night eating at the California Grill, the next day, lunch at the Cafeteria. Talk about a shock.

SIL let me know she was leaving at 8:00, earlier than originally intended so we said our goodbyes before taking off to the airport. Made it back to the room at 8:15 and I had the place to myself. Of course I did take my time driving back and spent about 45 minutes at the Belle Vue Lounge just to make sure I wasn’t in the way while she was packing up. I am very considerate like that.

The rest of the day was spent walking around the Boardwalk, taking pictures and both lunch and dinner at ESPN. A side note, had their Cheesesteak Sandwich which was very good. Thought about extending it a day but since they could not guarantee I wouldn’t have to move anyway, I packed up to leave tomorrow. Trip home was great if you block out the flat tire.

All in all a fun trip. Really proud of the Cheetah and how she demolished the Dopey Challenge. Great seeing everyone again and meeting other guys for the first time. Some of the best times were the pool bar meet up and of course the podcast recording. Lots of laughs with good friends. Looking forward to next year.

 

[Goofy + 3]

Good stuff, CJ. Always fun to read/view your trips.

I'll do it if you do it.

Veeerrryy tempting.

 

[RodBelding]

How did your run go? Looked like everyone had a good time from the pictures. Sorry I missed it. Let me know what your schedule looks like and when you get caught up, we'll schedule a lunch. I am away mid February so it would have to be before that or not until March.

Run was good. Hanging out with all those characters (the dads, not the actual characters) was better. You need to make it down next time!

My schedule should be good in early Feb, let's see if the first week works before you take off?

I think I'm in for the 10K and 1/2.

Go for the full.

You have to come down for the challenge with Carl. That would be classic no matter which way it turns out.

Nah, Good season for the Pats blah blah. Although I do wish the live podcast was a week later so Paul and I would have watched the game together. Congrats to the kids on their latest BB games.

I know, that would be fun. I'm already worried about the design he'd choose if I lose...

And watching the Pats/Colts game with you was as good as a superbowl win for me. I've already seen them win 3 rings, but trash talking with you when they blow out another team is a prize unto itself.

 

[cj9200]

Good stuff, CJ. Always fun to read/view your trips.

Veeerrryy tempting.

Thanks Chris. Still PO'ed I did not finish the Hawaii/Disneyland one. Got turned onto video TR's so the writing one has taken a back seat. Go for the Full if you are on the fence. Wish I could. I already have my spot picked out at the Boardwalk to cheer the runners on. Will have an adult beverage of your choice if you do run it.

Run was good. Hanging out with all those characters (the dads, not the actual characters) was better. You need to make it down next time!

I know, that would be fun. I'm already worried about the design he'd choose if I lose...

And watching the Pats/Colts game with you was as good as a superbowl win for me. I've already seen them win 3 rings, but trash talking with you when they blow out another team is a prize unto itself.

Enjoyed watching the game/podcast recording with the gang. Would have been better if the Pats lost but what can you do.

Instead of worrying about what design Carl has in mind, you should envision what your design would be for Carl. Would be fun. And you are right, Jim should be down there next year. Not that he is man enough to put his foot down and go. I'll do the 5K if he will. May not make it to the end of the corral to start but will give it a shot. You up for a challenge big guy? If it was today you would wipe the floor with me.

 

[Disney Commando]

Dopey accomplished, it was time for a little R&R at the room, some nap time and then primping to get ready for the big dinner at the remodeled California Grill.

She decided to lay out all her shirts and medals


The shirts were really well done but we were both less than enthusiastic about the medal designs. The all gold way most of them were done was uninspiring. Not that she is going to give any of them back.

What Dopey runners are wearing for a night out on the town, a dress, two knee braces and compression socks. And of course a Dopey medal around her neck.


Check in was smooth, given our pager and we went to look for a seat to wait to be called. About 10 feet from the host platform, our pager went off. They sat us at a window table, Win for us.


I like the new layout of the CG. Seems much more open, the windows are bigger and the restaurant has an overall modern feel.











Stephen was our waiter and he was good; attentive, funny, and not a hoverer. First course was one of Andriana’s must do food items at the World, the Cheese Plate.


Wishes time and we headed out to the new balcony that is on the left side of the restaurant. We were standing by the door and before the fireworks, it was a nice view.








But when the fireworks started, the building blocked the them. Even if you were down at the end, the point of view is off. The fireworks are way to the right of the castle so it doesn’t offer the same perspective as you get from the other side.

The Pirate Princess and I decided to go back inside and take advantage of the window seat. For the first time in a long time, I put the camera down and enjoyed the show. I was reminiscing about the last time SIL was our guest at the CG. It was the kid’s 5th birthday and SIL, my not then Ex, and both sets of Grandparents were there. it was the last time all of us were together as a group. Since then, five are no longer with us. I know SIL was thinking about that and was pretty emotional by the end of the show. They do need to improve the ventilation of the place because some of the smoke from the fireworks got in my eyes.

After another round of drinks were ordered, the food was delivered. I heard mixed reviews about the food early on so I was a bit worried. No need, everyone said their entree was delicious.

SIL’s Oak-fired Filet of Beef - Heirloom Tomato Risotto, Marinated Baby Vine Tomatoes, Petite Basil, Tomato Butter $49


Of course, it was the most expensive thing on the menu. She did say before she ordered that was what she was looking at and was worried about the price. I told her like anyone else, as our guest, there was no limit on what you have for dinner. I would have balked if she ordered a $1,500 bottle of wine however. Her review, “Excellent.”

They do this thing at the Grill for vegetarians where chefs at each station choose a dish and it is presented as a four course plate. It is not on the menu so you have to ask for it. DD was glad they kept that tradition going, as it is one of her favorite meals anywhere. Stephen told her what was on the plate but I forgot what it was $22


My choice was the Pork Two Ways - Grilled Tenderloin, Goat Cheese Polenta, Mushrooms, Lacquered Belly, Applesauce $37


OK, the pork at Captain’s Grille was good. Very good. This blew it away. The tenderloin was perfect and the belly was a slice of heaven. Think a thick hunk of the best bacon you ever tasted. Wow.

No deserts because SIL brought Red Velvet cake for an early birthday cake for the soon to be birthday girl.

On the way out, couldn’t resist a few more pictures. The celebrity was tired of it by now but too bad.


Back to the room for dessert where we were constantly reminded how great the cake was (it was good) even though it was expensive, just not that expensive. The Cheetah and I just rolled our eyes.

I did the kid’s laundry while they were snoring and set a 5:30 wake up call. Going to be nice to sleep in for a change. The next morning she packed up and I took her to the airport. Disney vacation over for her and so was her Christmas break. Flight took off at 8:00 and she was back in Jersey at 10:30. Her first class was 3:30 that day. One night eating at the California Grill, the next day, lunch at the Cafeteria. Talk about a shock.

SIL let me know she was leaving at 8:00, earlier than originally intended so we said our goodbyes before taking off to the airport. Made it back to the room at 8:15 and I had the place to myself. Of course I did take my time driving back and spent about 45 minutes at the Belle Vue Lounge just to make sure I wasn’t in the way while she was packing up. I am very considerate like that.

The rest of the day was spent walking around the Boardwalk, taking pictures and both lunch and dinner at ESPN. A side note, had their Cheesesteak Sandwich which was very good. Thought about extending it a day but since they could not guarantee I wouldn’t have to move anyway, I packed up to leave tomorrow. Trip home was great if you block out the flat tire.

All in all a fun trip. Really proud of the Cheetah and how she demolished the Dopey Challenge. Great seeing everyone again and meeting other guys for the first time. Some of the best times were the pool bar meet up and of course the podcast recording. Lots of laughs with good friends. Looking forward to next year.

What a Amazing view from CG, after running all those races the Pirate Princess deserves a nice dinner

I do have 1 question were you hungary when you left, I know it is gourmet, but the portions look like appetizers