HHI Family Reunion TR 7/31-8/7/09 10/16 Final Updates Pg 5!

[dvc at last !]

Yes. We did love it enough to go back.

When ?

Hoping for next July. Must wait till the 7 month window to reserve.

 

[podsnel]

Back at the villas, we picked up the kids that needed to be picked up from Kids Night Out (they had said we could release them at the end with the older kids, but this didn't work out for some reason) and there were some mixed reviews- the teenagers LOVED KNO, because they went mini-golfing and to an arcade, plus met other kids their age (which my DN13 then danced with the next night at the pool party!). The younger ones went on a scavenger hunt around the property and played pool, ping-pong, etc on the way. Most of them had a good time, but there were a couple kids who were bored (but to be fair, those kids don't like to do anything structured, so not sure if there was any chance they would ever like it.). DNeice7 met a few friends, which was good for her, since there was a lack of other girls in our group for her. So, some kids then went in the pool, some came back to the villas, one went in the hammock with her aunt and uncle-

And then all the kids went to sleep on the livingroom floor together- they LOVED sleeping together like this!

Oops! I forgot- Monday morning the 4 brothers had gone golfing together at Planter's Row- they really enjoyed themselves, we can't remember the last time they all golfed together! DH had booked it the night before at Last Minute Tee Times, I think the rate was $65pp. He said the course was ok- not the nicest manicured one he's seen. But they did all enjoy their time together.

So, since they had a nice morning together on Monday, on Tuesday morning it was our turn- the women were signed up for the Hilton Head Island tour with Carol. I remembered Carol from last year, she did the DVC tour I enjoyed. Well, it was just us in the van for this tour of the island, which was very nice, especially because they truly tried to accomodate her (she is 83 and VERY capable, but a few less stairs and steps is always a plus!).

On the way to the van, we saw a blue heron cooling himself off in the tree above our heads-

Not that it was HOT, or anything! (Actually, it really wasn't all that bad). We were off! Carol did a great job of explaining everything we were seeing from the van, like the Gullah cemetary, as well as various restaurants, etc on the island. We went to Mitchellville and Port royal Sound, and walked out to a deserted beach- well, except for the 10 million tiny mosquitos that live there. Wish I had put on some bug spray!!

There's Carol!

Our next stop was the Coastal Discovery Museum, where we admired the butterflies in the butterfly house and the amazing art that was displayed.

The butterflies of HHI- the large one in the center is a luna moth, which Carol says she does see down there, but at other times of the year. I've always wanted to see one- hope I get lucky down there one day!

MIL had a seat in the art gallery- she was really enjoying herself-

Such gorgeous trees-

Next we were on to Harbourtown, where we were given free time to shop or go up in the Lighthouse. The Liberty Tree is beautiful-

Cont'd next post-

 

[podsnel]

My MIL had decided to take a break in one of the chairs in the shade while the rest of us explored. Me with the SILs-

At this point, I asked if anyone wanted to go up into the Lighthouse to see the view. 2 SILs just said no thanks, I guess it was a little hot and they didn't want to get hotter. But my ONE SIL made a point of very patiently, very slowly, telling me that this was something she would do with her CHIL-DRENNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN. Good thing she enunciated each and every letter and syllable in CH-IL-DRENNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN because God knows I am one stupid Mother, and I need all the help and lessons on how to be a better Mother that I can get! I actually told her when I came down from my self-centered & self-indulgent trip up to the top of the lighthouse that this for ME was NOT something I would do with my CH-IL-DRENNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN because one of them is afraid of heights and the other one couldn't give a s*** (Probably this is all due to the fact that I am such a crap Mother). Anyway....

The lighthouse costs $3, and is a very easy walk up in case you are on the fence about it. It was built for tourists, and has manageable stairs to climb (as opposed to a real lighthouse that seems more like you are climbing a ladder). I was glad I went up, the views were gorgeous in all directions-

Wow, just look at that! I am soooooooooo booking DH a tee-time at that course next time! It's spectacular!!

Yes, it's ALL about me-

And back down-

I ran into a store and was able to purchase the most lovely pottery & pewter coffee canister in one of the shops before we were back on the van and headed through Sea Pines. Then it was through Shipyard and back to Disney, where they dropped us off at our Villa (again, to accomodate MIL). A very nice little experience for 5 women who knew nothing about HHI. Carol and the driver (a very nice man whose name I can't remember, so sorry!) were just great!

Next up- an unexpected DISmeet!!

 

[Tinks "SS"]

OH, i'm so happy you put this up on the DVC page. i've been trying to read it when i stumbled upon it! thanks for putting it here so it's easy for me to get to. Love the pics. can't wait to try HHI someday.

 

[dis-happy]

114 steps to the top of the lighthouse.....all just for YOU!!!!! WTG!!!

 

[podsnel]

Quote:
Originally Posted by dvc at last !
Love your TR. We went to HHI this July for the first time and really
enjoyed our selves. Enjoying your pics it brings back memories.



I'm so glad!! Are you going back?

Definitely- we loved it- We even decided to add on more points!

Lucky you!! We will add on points there one day- I had thought it would be this year, but we did BCV first this year (AKV was our original purchase) so it will have to wait.

Fun trip report. . thanks for sharing!!

Thanks and you're welcome!

Great TR!!!

BTW, do you like the Olympus underwater camera??? My dd is going to the Galapagas Islands next May and we were thinking about getting her this camera for Christmas. She'll need to do a photo project when she returns (this trip is part of a university project). TIA


PS. When we have grumpy houseguests I just get more and more cheerful!!! Kind of scary!!! Hope your BIL/SIL didn't make you all too miserable.

I LOVE that Olympus camera!! It is so much fun to take pictures underwater snorkeling! The technique takes a little practice, though (because you're floating and not still when you shoot). I used it without fear in Stingray City in Grand Cayman last fall, as well as during the F&W festival in the May monsoons!! I was so sad that the seal broke on this trip, but I've had numerous people come up to me and tell me it happened to them. However, I sent it back to Olympus (within 1 year of purchase) and they are either fixing my camera or replacing it with a new one, free of charge. So, I guess the conclusion is that it's excellent while it lasts! There is a new one out (mine is the 830?) hopefully they have fixed that problem. My SIL has the new one and loves it.

BIL/SIL didn't ruin my vacation, but they did put a big damper on it- mostly because she would complain or sigh whenever i said something and left the room (I could hear her), but then act all cheerful to my face. When I asked her if there was anything wrong and if there was something I could do to help her have a better time (afterwards referred to as "When Ellen confronted my wife" by my BIL) she said everything was great and they loved it. But then complained as soon as I left the room again- it was driving me CRAZY!!!!!!

Yes. We did love it enough to go back.

When ?

Hoping for next July. Must wait till the 7 month window to reserve.

Good-luck!!

OH, i'm so happy you put this up on the DVC page. i've been trying to read it when i stumbled upon it! thanks for putting it here so it's easy for me to get to. Love the pics. can't wait to try HHI someday.

Oh good! I was hoping there might be a few on the Mousecellaneous board who would like to see it! Thank-you!

114 steps to the top of the lighthouse.....all just for YOU!!!!! WTG!!!

That's right- because it's all about ME!

 

[BEASLYBOO]

Wow, what superb pictures! I've tried for the last 2 years to get into HH at the 7 month mark but w/ the kids school schedule, I haven't been succesful during peak time. Your trip report and pictures ensure that I will keep trying.

What a lovely family you have!

Thanks for sharing.

 

[5forDiz]

Really enjoying your TR ! We HHI too and can't wait to get back there again too.

I've got to tell ya that reading through, some things really got me laughing & wondering if you can possibly have some of the same inlaws as me? !!!!

GV's look absolutely perfect for kids to have the ultimate sleepover

 

[SLM]

The HHI tour looked great-I don't remember them offering that when we went in September, but we were so blissed out I could've easily missed it. I know you're only on day two, but I hope you got to Savannah-if not, just another reason to go again!
How anyone could be anything but thrilled by HHI is beyond me, sorry you had a little black cloud on your vacation-I'm trying to guess which one-not the blonde (because we know how easy-going we blondes are , the SIL with the long dark hair looks like fun...

 

[Mickey'sApprentice]

In the group picture with the boats in the background...one of your SIL's have Mickey Ears. LOL

I feel for you. My sisters won't go to HH because the resort isn't on the beach.

 

[mcrabeck]

Boy your SIL's missed out! We went up into the lighthouse and like your pictures show- the view is spectacular! Well worth the $3 and all those stairs! Kids or no kids!

 

[Chim Chiminy]

I am loving this trip report, and lol about your SIL!
Count me as one making a guess as to which one she is in the pics.........I think it is pretty obvious looking at the eyes, they tell so much.

Love your pictures too.
I am sitting here trying to think if we can fit in a trip to HHI next summer. DH would love to go back.

 

[Mickey'sApprentice]

oh I can't tell. The SIL with long brown hair seems to have a forced smile...
I'm going with her.

We're not going to find out...are we?

 

[podsnel]

Wow, what superb pictures! I've tried for the last 2 years to get into HH at the 7 month mark but w/ the kids school schedule, I haven't been succesful during peak time. Your trip report and pictures ensure that I will keep trying.

What a lovely family you have!

Thanks for sharing.

I hope you will get in! We have both rented points and paid cash with the discount to stay there- but on both vacations, we have met families who got in at the 7 month mark. Good luck!

And thanks, I love the family- even the ones who pissed me off.

Really enjoying your TR ! We HHI too and can't wait to get back there again too.

I've got to tell ya that reading through, some things really got me laughing & wondering if you can possibly have some of the same inlaws as me? !!!!

GV's look absolutely perfect for kids to have the ultimate sleepover

So funny!!

The HHI tour looked great-I don't remember them offering that when we went in September, but we were so blissed out I could've easily missed it. I know you're only on day two, but I hope you got to Savannah-if not, just another reason to go again!
How anyone could be anything but thrilled by HHI is beyond me, sorry you had a little black cloud on your vacation-I'm trying to guess which one-not the blonde (because we know how easy-going we blondes are , the SIL with the long dark hair looks like fun...

They actually ALL are a ton of fun- just two of them like the fun to be their way I guess, which I never knew before. Before we went away, SIL told me they never vacation with other people and they are used to doing their own thing their way, and they were a little nervous about it. With good reason, i suppose! FWIW, everyone else compromised on soooo many aspects of their vacation for the good of the group, without complaint, because you really have to be willing to do that to have a good time. And I guess THEY compromised, too, but they did not do it willfully, while the rest of us compromised without complaint.

In the group picture with the boats in the background...one of your SIL's have Mickey Ears. LOL

I feel for you. My sisters won't go to HH because the resort isn't on the beach.

Really? I'll have to go back and look when I get done with this post! How cool!

And you are better off NOT bringing your sisters to HH if they HAVE TO stay on the beach. For some that is the main and only thing they want on vacation, and I think, if that's all they want, they won't get it at DHHIR. I LOVE the beach- but I have had the luxury of living in a coastal state my whole life and so I have had a TON of beach vacations- so I am happy to try something new and a little different. But not everyone is in my "place". Toobad, though, your sisters won't give it a try- it is sooooo wonderful there!

Boy your SIL's missed out! We went up into the lighthouse and like your pictures show- the view is spectacular! Well worth the $3 and all those stairs! Kids or no kids!

I agree!! My one SIL, who was on vacation with us here the year before (in my other HHI TR) was later saying she didn't know why she didn't go up- but I think she was just too hot. She is usually up for anything.

I am loving this trip report, and lol about your SIL!
Count me as one making a guess as to which one she is in the pics.........I think it is pretty obvious looking at the eyes, they tell so much.

Love your pictures too.
I am sitting here trying to think if we can fit in a trip to HHI next summer. DH would love to go back.

I would love to go back, too!! But I know we can't do it next year- we are planning on Disneyland and So. CA and our second DCL Western- plus our NEXT family trip which was almost at HHI again, but, sadly, is elsewhere.

oh I can't tell. The SIL with long brown hair seems to have a forced smile...
I'm going with her.

We're not going to find out...are we?

Sorry-

 

[podsnel]

When we arrived back, everyone was down at the pool, having a good time playing around- shuffleboard, ping-pong, splashing around the waterslide- it was all fun.

A very sweet woman came up to me and said, "Excuse me....are you Podsnel?" I LOVE it when that happens!!! It was Jejojuel, and I was so happy to meet both her and her DH! We talked for a little while about DCL, she is surprising her kids with their first DCL cruise this November, it's so exciting!! Anyway, here we are-

I wish we had run into each other more often, but we didn't see them again until our last day.

Well, it turned cloudy again, so we left the pool to pursue other activities. Some of the boys went over to Big Murgie's Den to play checkers and shoot pool. And lose a purple refillable mug. Oh well.

The bad weather didn't last very long, though, so we were soon outside again. Some played basketball and some played horseshoes, both right outside our villas-

My youngest DN wanted to play, too, so he and DS10 started their own game-

THIS is my favorite thing, I think, about DHHIR- there is soooooooo much to do that is free of charge, that your kids can go do by THEMSELVES and they are safe because it is all there on that Disney island.

My MIL really enjoyed watching it all from her rocking chair on her balcony. Did I mention that my MIL LOVED this place? All of it? The resort and the whole island? She told us that many times on this trip, and she made a point of thanking me for finding it when we were at dinner the night before, saying that she couldn't IMAGINE a more perfect place for our family. Wasn't that soooo nice?

Soon it was time to head in for dinner- two of my SILs had planned an Italian night- one was making pasta, the other was making bobolis and salad. I helped with the bobolis & salad which were being made at our villa.

The kids having some tv time before the BIG Tuesday night BASH!!!!

Next up....it's time to PARTY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[jejojual]

I was waiting for it! Jeff was reading your TR the other day and said "Hey honey - you're going to be in the next installment!"

It was so great to meet you guys and I, too, am sorry we didn't see you again until the last day...let me know if you are headed back next year - we are planning to - basically the same time - and by then I can tell you all about DCL! (I'm going to try to do a TR on it - so we will see!)

Thanks again so much - it was great to meet you and your family! Just remember..."DON'T SWIM UNDER THE ROPE"....and..."ONE PERSON AT A TIME ON THE SLIDE".... that last swim was a hoot!

Keep the great trip report coming - its so fun to relive the memories~

 

[podsnel]

I was waiting for it! Jeff was reading your TR the other day and said "Hey honey - you're going to be in the next installment!"

It was so great to meet you guys and I, too, am sorry we didn't see you again until the last day...let me know if you are headed back next year - we are planning to - basically the same time - and by then I can tell you all about DCL! (I'm going to try to do a TR on it - so we will see!)

Thanks again so much - it was great to meet you and your family! Just remember..."DON'T SWIM UNDER THE ROPE"....and..."ONE PERSON AT A TIME ON THE SLIDE".... that last swim was a hoot!

Keep the great trip report coming - its so fun to relive the memories~

Hi! We aren't headed back next year- we are going to Pigeon Forge, tenn instead. We were ALMOST there- oh well. But MY family will return again- I love it there too much to say good-bye!! So you will have to filll me in on your cruise via a TR!!! I can't WAIT to hear about the surprise!!!!

And O.M.G.!!!! The last day on the slide!!!

I hope to get another post in before DH & I go to Vero & WDW on Friday- it's been really crazy here, and is continuing right up until we leave, but I will do my best! Going to see U2 tomorrow night at the Meadowlands- they give such a fabulous show, I'm really excited to see them again!

 

[dis-happy]

Going to see U2 tomorrow night at the Meadowlands- they give such a fabulous show, I'm really excited to see them again!

I am so jealous!! Say hi to Bono for me!!!

 

[bobbiwoz]

I'm loving your pictures and TR! Thanks. DH and I will be at HHI over Halloween Weekend. We're psyched. I know I will love it.

Bobbi

 

[podsnel]

I am so jealous!! Say hi to Bono for me!!!

I actually have a LOT of guilt about this concert tonight- we are skipping Back 2 school night and I feel HORRIBLE about it. As of 2 days ago I was going to stay home & let DH go, but he wanted me to go instead....so we kept going back and forth and then I decided I already know Tim's teachers, because Tyler was in the same class 2 years ago, and for Tyler- well, he switches for 7th grade, so it's 10 minutes with each teacher where you barely learn anything, they just read what they've written on the paper they hand out (which he can bring home for me). A month later, I wouldn't be able to pick most of them out of a line up! I am telling myself all this to ease my guilt, but it's not really working!!!

I'm loving your pictures and TR! Thanks. DH and I will be at HHI over Halloween Weekend. We're psyched. I know I will love it.

Bobbi

Really? You've never been? I thought you had. You're a nature lover, right Bobbi? If so, you are going to ADORE HHI- it's a nature lover's paradise. Ahhhhhhhhh........

OK- I'm off to buy some stuff for our trip, then I have a golf lesson so I can get yelled at by the pro for an hour about how much I stink up the golf course! All to play in WDW next week with DH....