"Having a GRAND time - The Official GF Chat Thread"

[praline3001]

Tinkaroo~
What about riding something twice? Did the guide have a problem with riding the same ride twice?
I know Savannah loves RNR and I would love to get her on it a few times ... just not sure what they will say

Mare~ I forgot to mention our Chef mickey breakfast is for 9:30. Its our last day and we are going to be lazy haha

 

[Tinkaroo]

Tinkaroo I just listened to the podcast and they gave out some more details about the live show, you should listen and decide soon! It would be great to meet another GF girl! I am so excited, they are giving out prizes so I am hoping for an ipod! I don't have one

I am off, we have a big home school curriculum thing we are going to today, gotta start deciding already and order next years stuff!

Mandy

Is this week's finally up?! I know they didn't record until Tuesday, but gosh, we've been waiting forever!

I'm betting they'll really do some cool things, that's why I'd like to go! Plus, I figure that will be the only way I'll ever know what John looks like!

It would definitely be fun to meet!

I am trying to decide if I should order a gift basket for DS or just grab a couple of things on my own and assemble them in the room while he is in the arcade (which, of course, is DH's preference)... we leave in 20 days so I better get my butt in gear and decide already...

I say go with the "assemble it yourself" plan. You could probably get more for your $$ that way, as well as have it be that much more personalized for your DS! Plus, you only have 20 days!! Hop to it!

Yes, I have used every sunprotection company out there, over the counter, prescription. The BEST sunprotection company is Neutrogena!!!!!!! Anything they make rocks!! I LOVE the new spray on and so does Natalie, it smells great it even comes in 45 and is Broad Spectrum. We love spraying in WDW when people around us don't smell too good or if we don't smell too good.

I use Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry touch for her face and its great, I just don't do her forehead because when she swims it runs into her eyes. Thats the only thing I haven't found yet, sun protection that doesn't burn the eyes, but if you eliminate the forehead (Natalie wear a hat and Savannah's hair should protect her) she'll do great.

I love both Neutrogena items you listed. I have really fair skin, too, and so much just does NOT work for me. And of course, it doesn't help that I absolutely LOATHE sunscreen - this is the only stuff I can stand to have on me. The only thing I've noticed is that the spray, if you're applying it consistently throughout the day for several days in a row, can build up a slight film on your skin. I have to make sure I do some exfoliation to keep that from happening.

 

[Tinkaroo]

Mandy: I read a thread in the podcast section from Pete saying he was in a long term relationship with John. I'm so nosy that I want to know more about these people! Someone said if you go back to last springs podcast there's a three show segment on how they all met and got together. When I have the time, I'll try to find it. I think someone mention end of April 07.

This is going to sound so stalker-ish...

Yes, they were in a relationship, and it sounds like it was for quite a period of time. I'm not sure when they broke up, but from stuff they've said, it sounds like it's probably been since about 2001, would be my guess.

It was actually John that got them moved to Orlando - they were on vacation at WDW and he saw something about a Disney job fair, so he went! He got hired into IT and Disney paid for them to relocate. That's when Pete started the DIS, as I don't think he had a job lined up in Orlando. Shortly thereafter, they also started Dreams Unlimited, and I guess at some point John quit his job with IT to focus on that. Now, they're just business partners, and they each have their own relationships. I personally couldn't imagine it, but it obviously works well for everyone!

The episodes I think you need to listen to for the history of the DIS (as well as how they all ended up getting together) is one on 4/3, 5/1, and 6/12 of last year (at least, those are the old ones still on my iPod, and I know I kept those!). Very interesting!!!

 

[johnsonet]

I tried, I finally got a concierge women (Janet) she said that the computer doesn't allow them to go any further in July. I am going to be on the phone at 7 am, I can't screw this up.

I feel so bad, like I let her down by not calling until 8:00. I don't know what I was thinking. Now that I think about it, I remember it being 7:00!!!

WishesQueen, good luck securing your cabana. I bet it will all work out for you. Don't be so hard on yourself!!

I would book the YC for night one and the GF for 2-3 (and hope for a GF opening


I am trying to decide if I should order a gift basket for DS or just grab a couple of things on my own and assemble them in the room while he is in the arcade (which, of course, is DH's preference)... we leave in 20 days so I better get my butt in gear and decide already...

Actually, I just booked 3 nights Water View at the YC and I'm soooo excited It's the only Deluxe we've never stayed at! I got it at the Passholder Rate and am just thrilled! Slim pickin;s that weekend , so I feel lucky! I've done a 180 on my MK thing for this trip. I've decided we'll just do Epcot and MGM (parks we can walk to ) and I'm going to surprise my DD who is 11 and pick her up from school at lunchtime and head down. She LOVES SAB and World Showcase, so where better to stay for a quick weekend? I've made an ADR at Yachtsman b/c my DD is a big-time steak lover and we have NEVER eaten there. I'm so excited to be doing new stuff

I did the cabana thingy a couple times and never had a cabana helper person...is that something new?

When we rented a cabana for the first time last August we were greeted by a CM who told us she would be checking on us, took our lunch order, helped with the Sirius radio, etc.
Lives4Disney THANK YOU for your advice yesterday b/c I am going to try the YC and I can't WAIT! We will be at the Poly this summer for a whole week and I can get my MK fix then

Any dining recommendations for breakfast while staying at YC?? How is Spoodle's?

 

[PrincessPaczki]

While staying at the BC we have eaten breakfast buffet at Cape May. It was really good and the character interaction is very nice. In fact, they were at our table to much! We are doing the breakfast again in August.

 

[goofygal531]

Annette: For waterproof sunscreen a Derm DR on the family thread recommends Blue Lizzard for kids. He says any sunscreen with zinc add is the best. It goes on thick then disappears. I've never tried it, but for the pool I thought it might be good. It's sold at CVS, Rite Aid, etc... (No Targets, Walmarts) It's made in Austrailia and those people know sun products!

We use water babies for the kids. I have so much of it right now, but when it runs out I'm going to try the Neutragena, I'm all for a nice smell and easy spray

Channing: I've read online that when you book a cabana you get a "cabana helper" to assist you with ANYTHING. Is this new or a made up rumor?? I just want someone to deliver lunch I can't go to Gasspies alone with two kids slymie in sunscreen and sand to get lunch. Oh and DH could never manage at all! Some please let me know if I can have lunch delivered? I don't need to be waited on all day, but just lunch would be necessary.

And I guess that was a rumor that they raised the prices of the Grand One. I wish I knew this ahead of time. I would have reserved it for the wishes cruise since I'm splitting it with another family. Oh well, next time!

Linda: I reserved the cabana for full days. The half day times just didn't work for us. I think it was $110 per day for the entire day 10am to 7pm. WDW will cancel your reservation at any time due to incliment weather. So I wouldn't worry about that. Yes, you do have 24 hrs to cancel should your plans change. The number to call is 407 WDW-PLAY.

Mandy: Yeah, John and Pete are both co-owners of DU and were in a long term relationship - Pete said this himself. Just wondering now how Walter and Kevin came into the mix You should start a Mom's WDW podcast specifically for the planners with lots of tips for going to WDW with kids. I'd love to do restaurant reviews!

Brook: I'm taking notes! I'm all for coffee! I can tolerate Disney Coffee, but frequent the Kona Coffee bar ALOT! I love Kona coffee! I saw that you can order the pot of pressed coffee at Narcoossee's, I don't think it's Kona coffee, but heard it was delicious! I'll let you know how it is. I plan on having it with the almond cheesecake - yum!

Off to download this week's podcast.

The boys dont want to go out today, they're playing with their trains and watching Nemo

Mare

 

[Tinkaroo]

Tinkaroo~
What about riding something twice? Did the guide have a problem with riding the same ride twice?
I know Savannah loves RNR and I would love to get her on it a few times ... just not sure what they will say

Mare~ I forgot to mention our Chef mickey breakfast is for 9:30. Its our last day and we are going to be lazy haha

Nope - not a problem. We only rode one thing twice (at our young nieces' request - Barnstormer), but that was more because we were trying to do and see so much. I've had other DIS'ers say that the guides have gotten them on a 2nd time to many rides (RNR included), so it shouldn't be a problem - they'll probably just use that nifty FP line.

Actually, I just booked 3 nights Water View at the YC and I'm soooo excited It's the only Deluxe we've never stayed at! I got it at the Passholder Rate and am just thrilled! Slim pickin;s that weekend , so I feel lucky! I've done a 180 on my MK thing for this trip. I've decided we'll just do Epcot and MGM (parks we can walk to ) and I'm going to surprise my DD who is 11 and pick her up from school at lunchtime and head down. She LOVES SAB and World Showcase, so where better to stay for a quick weekend? I've made an ADR at Yachtsman b/c my DD is a big-time steak lover and we have NEVER eaten there. I'm so excited to be doing new stuff
I can get my MK fix then

Any dining recommendations for breakfast while staying at YC?? How is Spoodle's?

Well, then that sounds perfect for your family! WTG on the passholder rate!

I've heard the Captain's Grille (formerly YC Galley) is supposed to be really good, and I think they now have a breakfast buffet. I have also heard really good things about Spoodle's and Fresh over at the Dolphin. I've done Cape May a time or two, and that's nice as well.

 

[Cinderumbrella]

Yes, I have used every sunprotection company out there, over the counter, prescription. The BEST sunprotection company is Neutrogena!!!!!!! Anything they make rocks!! I LOVE the new spray on and so does Natalie, it smells great it even comes in 45 and is Broad Spectrum. We love spraying in WDW when people around us don't smell too good or if we don't smell too good.

I use Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry touch for her face and its great, I just don't do her forehead because when she swims it runs into her eyes. Thats the only thing I haven't found yet, sun protection that doesn't burn the eyes, but if you eliminate the forehead (Natalie wear a hat and Savannah's hair should protect her) she'll do great.

I love Neutrogena sunscreen!!! I am fair skinned and ultra senstive so I have to watch what i put on my face. Their face stuff is AMAZING! It isn't slimy feeling, comes in SPF 50- I love it!

ooops...I meant to pull myself away....still here....


Kristin,,,you're getting close!!! Hope you find the white shorts!

J. Crew has some cute ones, but I am SO against paying for shipping when I on-line shop. To get free shipping I have to spend $150 and the shirts are only $40! But 8.50 to ship them... The Loft has them in my size in petite, but I am 5'9" Although they say the inseam difference between petite and regular is only 1/2 inch

OK, you ladies have convinced me. I'm going to try and book the cabanas for at least one afternoon for us. We're going in August, and we'll be returning to the resort just about every afternoon for swim / rest, so this will be nice. And yes, my younger one (the TV addict) will get the biggest kick out of watching TV by the pool. Food, swimming and TV -- she will be in heaven!

I have up to 24 hours to cancel with no penalties, right? I may have to do that if the weather report is not promising for the next day.

Can I ask how much and how much in advance I can book? 90 days?

Thanks!
Linda

Linda, we did the cabana last August for 2 half days. We did them for the morning slot. I loved it!!! The portable A/C unit makes it worth it all by itself!! We never turned the TV on, but I did have the radio cranked to a dance station!!! As for a cabana helper, he was there, but didn't seem capable of doing much He wasn't 21 so I had to get my own cocktails (OH THE HUMANITY!!! ) And DH went to Gaspy's to get our own food. He came to show us how everything worked, was the fridge stocked OK, etc. They every half hour or so he would wander over to see if we needed anything. He was pleasant without lurking

You do have 24 hours to cancel, but there is no penalty if the weather is bad. You book them 90 days before you want it. 407 WDW PLAY

 

[goofygal531]

This is going to sound so stalker-ish...

Yes, they were in a relationship, and it sounds like it was for quite a period of time. I'm not sure when they broke up, but from stuff they've said, it sounds like it's probably been since about 2001, would be my guess.

It was actually John that got them moved to Orlando - they were on vacation at WDW and he saw something about a Disney job fair, so he went! He got hired into IT and Disney paid for them to relocate. That's when Pete started the DIS, as I don't think he had a job lined up in Orlando. Shortly thereafter, they also started Dreams Unlimited, and I guess at some point John quit his job with IT to focus on that. Now, they're just business partners, and they each have their own relationships. I personally couldn't imagine it, but it obviously works well for everyone!

The episodes I think you need to listen to for the history of the DIS (as well as how they all ended up getting together) is one on 4/3, 5/1, and 6/12 of last year (at least, those are the old ones still on my iPod, and I know I kept those!). Very interesting!!!

Thank you thank you thank you! I'm downloading it right now!

Just wondering how Pete found Walter since Walter has no interest in WDW. Just a little odd since Pete's whole life revolves around it.

When we rented a cabana for the first time last August we were greeted by a CM who told us she would be checking on us, took our lunch order, helped with the Sirius radio, etc.?

Thanks! I knew I heard that there was some kind of greeter/helper/assistant "cabana boy" As long as I can have lunch delivered

Any dining recommendations for breakfast while staying at YC?? How is Spoodle's.?

My DH loves the Epcot area resorts. I wasn't crazy about BC, but I'm looking forward to trying YC. Cape May Cafe breakfast is EMPTY if you go late. Like after 10:30. On two occassions, DS4 was able to sit and color with Goofy for 15 mins! The service was amazing and the food very fresh considering how empty the restaurant was.

We also liked Spoodles for dinner. It's Mediterainian. My DS4 loved the pizza window at Spoodles. Many times, we'd get him a slice then head over to Epcot to have dinner "around the world". AKA "pig out"

The character Sunday brunch at the Swan is nice and not crowded.

It's the best area for foodies. You have 5 resorts and 2 parks to choose from!

I've heard the Captain's Grille (formerly YC Galley) is supposed to be really good, and I think they now have a breakfast buffet.

I've heard really good things about Captain's Grille. Many people call it their best kept secret as it's not crowded and you can still walk in and get seated!

 

[mandymommy4]

Annette: For waterproof sunscreen a Derm DR on the family thread recommends Blue Lizzard for kids. He says any sunscreen with zinc add is the best. It goes on thick then disappears. I've never tried it, but for the pool I thought it might be good. It's sold at CVS, Rite Aid, etc... (No Targets, Walmarts) It's made in Austrailia and those people know sun products!

We use water babies for the kids. I have so much of it right now, but when it runs out I'm going to try the Neutragena, I'm all for a nice smell and easy spray

Channing: I've read online that when you book a cabana you get a "cabana helper" to assist you with ANYTHING. Is this new or a made up rumor?? I just want someone to deliver lunch I can't go to Gasspies alone with two kids slymie in sunscreen and sand to get lunch. Oh and DH could never manage at all! Some please let me know if I can have lunch delivered? I don't need to be waited on all day, but just lunch would be necessary.

And I guess that was a rumor that they raised the prices of the Grand One. I wish I knew this ahead of time. I would have reserved it for the wishes cruise since I'm splitting it with another family. Oh well, next time!

Linda: I reserved the cabana for full days. The half day times just didn't work for us. I think it was $110 per day for the entire day 10am to 7pm. WDW will cancel your reservation at any time due to incliment weather. So I wouldn't worry about that. Yes, you do have 24 hrs to cancel should your plans change. The number to call is 407 WDW-PLAY.

Mandy: Yeah, John and Pete are both co-owners of DU and were in a long term relationship - Pete said this himself. Just wondering now how Walter and Kevin came into the mix You should start a Mom's WDW podcast specifically for the planners with lots of tips for going to WDW with kids. I'd love to do restaurant reviews!

Brook: I'm taking notes! I'm all for coffee! I can tolerate Disney Coffee, but frequent the Kona Coffee bar ALOT! I love Kona coffee! I saw that you can order the pot of pressed coffee at Narcoossee's, I don't think it's Kona coffee, but heard it was delicious! I'll let you know how it is. I plan on having it with the almond cheesecake - yum!

Off to download this week's podcast.

The boys dont want to go out today, they're playing with their trains and watching Nemo

Mare

I so want to! DH says that as much as I know about the place I should totally make it a business!

 

[Tink rules]

Just popping in to ask whether or not Werfamily ever checked back in after their trip???

 

[Tinkaroo]

Thank you thank you thank you! I'm downloading it right now!

Just wondering how Pete found Walter since Walter has no interest in WDW. Just a little odd since Pete's whole life revolves around it.

Thanks! I knew I heard that there was some kind of greeter/helper/assistant "cabana boy" As long as I can have lunch delivered

You're welcome. I agree - it is interesting!

I thought I'd heard somewhere that GF Private Dining will deliver to the pool. Maybe that's wrong?

 

[praline3001]

You're welcome. I agree - it is interesting!

I thought I'd heard somewhere that GF Private Dining will deliver to the pool. Maybe that's wrong?

hmmmmm I wonder if Capt Jack is willing to play cabana boy

 

[Cinderumbrella]

OK, so I decided to make my own gift basket. If we are staying at Pop this time, I am keeping to my Pop budget!!!

I bought a cello basket bag at the dollar store and grabbed a handfull of red shred that I had leftover from last year's birthday party goodie bags to be the "base". I cut a whole bunch of curling ribbon in various colors and made my own bow. I picked up a little Mickey gift card to tie to the bag. All I need to do is grab one of those Birthday Mickey's and a birthday button when I get down there and I am done.

For my "nightly" gift, I bought a Mickey gift bag and a package of fun tissue paper. Each day while we are at the parks, Mickey will fill it (i.e. Slow poke Mommy who is the last one out of the room in the AM will fill it ) I am going to grab a 2008 beach towel once we arrive (secretly of course) and I have 4 pairs of PJ Pals from the Disney Store.

I still have to call Pop to set up my cake order. I believe they will only do the $13.00 one, but that is plenty since we don't have a fridge. Walmart had clearanced out their Mickey Mouse Club House Bday stuff so I got a package of plates, napkins, and a tablecloth for under $5!!! I went to the regular party store and grabbed the MM Birthday banner, a Mickey candle for the cake, a package of 5th Birthday balloons, and a talking Mickey Mouse birthday card. On our PPP day, we were going to DTD in the AM and chilling by the pool in the afternoon, so Mommy will leave about 30 minutes early "to take a shower" and go pick up the cake from the food court and decorate the room and he will come back and think that Mickey left him a party!

Hope I can pull this off!!!

 

[Cinderumbrella]

You're welcome. I agree - it is interesting!

I thought I'd heard somewhere that GF Private Dining will deliver to the pool. Maybe that's wrong?

If you want lunch delievered, you have to set it up through private dining. I am certain the cabana boy WON'T do it (like I said, I am not really sure what he did besdies get fresh towels )

 

[Tinkaroo]

OK, so I decided to make my own gift basket. If we are staying at Pop this time, I am keeping to my Pop budget!!!

I bought a cello basket bag at the dollar store and grabbed a handfull of red shred that I had leftover from last year's birthday party goodie bags to be the "base". I cut a whole bunch of curling ribbon in various colors and made my own bow. I picked up a little Mickey gift card to tie to the bag. All I need to do is grab one of those Birthday Mickey's and a birthday button when I get down there and I am done.

For my "nightly" gift, I bought a Mickey gift bag and a package of fun tissue paper. Each day while we are at the parks, Mickey will fill it (i.e. Slow poke Mommy who is the last one out of the room in the AM will fill it ) I am going to grab a 2008 beach towel once we arrive (secretly of course) and I have 4 pairs of PJ Pals from the Disney Store.

I still have to call Pop to set up my cake order. I believe they will only do the $13.00 one, but that is plenty since we don't have a fridge. Walmart had clearanced out their Mickey Mouse Club House Bday stuff so I got a package of plates, napkins, and a tablecloth for under $5!!! I went to the regular party store and grabbed the MM Birthday banner, a Mickey candle for the cake, a package of 5th Birthday balloons, and a talking Mickey Mouse birthday card. On our PPP day, we were going to DTD in the AM and chilling by the pool in the afternoon, so Mommy will leave about 30 minutes early "to take a shower" and go pick up the cake from the food court and decorate the room and he will come back and think that Mickey left him a party!

Hope I can pull this off!!!

Sounds adorable!

 

[SleepingUgly]

If you want lunch delievered, you have to set it up through private dining. I am certain the cabana boy WON'T do it (like I said, I am not really sure what he did besdies get fresh towels )

Cabana boy ... mmmm ... I'm sure I can think of something else he can do.

Oh, I'm sorry, he's not THAT kind of a cabana boy. Sorry. My bad.

Linda

 

[mandymommy4]

OK, so I decided to make my own gift basket. If we are staying at Pop this time, I am keeping to my Pop budget!!!

I bought a cello basket bag at the dollar store and grabbed a handfull of red shred that I had leftover from last year's birthday party goodie bags to be the "base". I cut a whole bunch of curling ribbon in various colors and made my own bow. I picked up a little Mickey gift card to tie to the bag. All I need to do is grab one of those Birthday Mickey's and a birthday button when I get down there and I am done.

For my "nightly" gift, I bought a Mickey gift bag and a package of fun tissue paper. Each day while we are at the parks, Mickey will fill it (i.e. Slow poke Mommy who is the last one out of the room in the AM will fill it ) I am going to grab a 2008 beach towel once we arrive (secretly of course) and I have 4 pairs of PJ Pals from the Disney Store.

I still have to call Pop to set up my cake order. I believe they will only do the $13.00 one, but that is plenty since we don't have a fridge. Walmart had clearanced out their Mickey Mouse Club House Bday stuff so I got a package of plates, napkins, and a tablecloth for under $5!!! I went to the regular party store and grabbed the MM Birthday banner, a Mickey candle for the cake, a package of 5th Birthday balloons, and a talking Mickey Mouse birthday card. On our PPP day, we were going to DTD in the AM and chilling by the pool in the afternoon, so Mommy will leave about 30 minutes early "to take a shower" and go pick up the cake from the food court and decorate the room and he will come back and think that Mickey left him a party!

Hope I can pull this off!!!

Sounds cute!

By the way, now I have the MM Club House song stuck in my head, thanks!.......... It;s the Mickey Mouse club house, come inside it fun inside .......

 

[Cinderumbrella]

Cabana boy ... mmmm ... I'm sure I can think of something else he can do.

Oh, I'm sorry, he's not THAT kind of a cabana boy. Sorry. My bad.

Linda

If you would have seen him your thoughts WOULD NOT have gone that way... Now if the Captain was there...

 

[praline3001]

If you would have seen him your thoughts WOULD NOT have gone that way... Now if the Captain was there...

hey scroll up babe... I called him first... HANDS OFF