I guess I need a little encouragement...re: trip dates

[MemoriesintheMaking]

Yes, sorry, another trip date discussion. Don't shoot me!

Ok, here's the situation (I'd say short and sweet, but I doubt it will be short!): We are planning on taking a two week road trip with our two kids, 6 and 9, and my disabled adult brother. We will be hitting the Grand Canyon first, then Disneyland. We plan on spending 5-6 days at Disneyland.

This trip is really important to me - my brother moved in with us last year. We all love him dearly and wouldn't have it any other way, truly, but it has meant a lot of changes, both good and not-so-good-but-necessary. Everyone involved (my dh, my kids, and my brother - all of us!!) has been so great and caring and sacrificing, that I really, really want to have a wonderful vacation to celebrate our family and make a ton of great memories. This will be my brother's first trip to Disneyland, and I know he will absolutely love it. One of the things I am most looking forward to is just watching him experience DL and take it all in. And DL is a special place for the rest of our family.

SO, the point !! is... we have only been to DL in the fall. This time, it's looking like we are going to need to go in August. I was originally aiming for September, but we are unique in actually preferring not to be there for the Halloween or Christmas decorations - we really prefer DL in it's ordinary form. And my ds wants to ride SM really badly this trip, but he is very sensitive to scary things, so the Halloween overlay is out for him. So, while I'd be ok with taking the kids out of school normally for the trip, in order to miss the decor and overlays, it would have to be the first week or two in Sept, and I don't want them to miss the first weeks of school. (Wow, I ramble!!)

So, August it is. I know there is no such thing as a perfect time to go, but it is important to me for my brother to be able to see the sights. In his chair, if it is wall to wall people, he can't really see much. What is your opinion on the week in August just before the AP's are unblocked? Say, 8/15-8/20/11? Will that week be more likely to be manageable than the week after, when the AP's are unblocked? We will be there enough days that I'm not too worried about being able to ride everything, but what I am most concerned about is just navigating the roads and pathways with his wheelchair comfortably.

We don't expect low crowds, but I don't think it would be fun for his wheelchair to be trapped in a sea of people. Is this even doable? I had made up my mind to plan for DL in August, then got nervous and started planning another destination, but we all really have our hearts set on DL after all. I guess I just need my hand held a little bit, and a touch of encouragement that we can give our entire family a fun, relaxing trip in August. Or any ideas to improve our plan would be welcome, as well. I have read HydroGuy's great tips on high/low seasons, etc. Those were very helpful. We are planning on taking plenty of down time at the hotel (DLH) - swimming, naps, window shopping, just soaking it all in.

I appreciate anything you can offer me - tips, ideas, opinions. Thanks!!

 

[Raindown]

For certain shows there is an area carved out for people to view the show while remaining in their wheelchair. Ask cast members about those viewing options.

 

[QueenDoOver]

I think you will be fine if you just plan on taking advantage of the crowd patterns and avoid the busiest times and places. We were there the 1st week in August last year and it was crowded and hot, but knowing and expecting it meant that we were able to cope. Have a wonderful trip.

PS I would certainly go before the AP's are unblocked

 

[amamax2]

First of all, don't worry about asking questions..this board is super friendly and helpful!

Second, you have done a wonderful thing by inviting your brother into your home! My neighbor has her Gramma living with her, and while it is stressful and hard at times, the benefits they are all receiving, especially the gramma, outweigh everything else, and I know it is the same for your family and your brother.

Ok, now on to your question: Hopefully others will chime in who have specifically gone at that time, but I know I have read recently that this past year the last week in August was very uncrowded, even with the unblocked APs. Some kids are back in school already; others are getting ready for school.

Regardless, you will have plenty of time there - make sure to get a SAP (special pass because of your brother's wheelchair) for lines. It will be a special and magical trip.


ETA:

I just did a search on August crowds....several people who went this past August said the last week was uncrowded, but some think that was do to a heat wave we had that week. Most who have been in August have gone prior to the APs being unblocked and say it is busy, but very manageable. It doesn't sound like that week is crazy busy in the least, so your brother should be fine. Just be aware it probably will be HOT!

 

[skiingfast]

Regardless, you will have plenty of time there - make sure to get a SAP (special pass because of your brother's wheelchair) for lines. It will be a special and magical trip.

I think maybe you mean GAC(guest assistance card) for the lines?

ETA:

I just did a search on August crowds....several people who went this past August said the last week was uncrowded, but some think that was do to a heat wave we had that week. Most who have been in August have gone prior to the APs being unblocked and say it is busy, but very manageable. It doesn't sound like that week is crazy busy in the least, so your brother should be fine. Just be aware it probably will be HOT!

For August coming up the APs get unblocked the last few days of the month. This is later than in 2010. I would aim for the first few weeks to avoid any barrages of locals. If you must go the third week it should work out. Also weekends are much busier in general all year long.

As Anamax mentioned be ready for heat. DL may be very hot. The Grand Canyon will definitely be scorching. Just be prepared for that. Take advantage of shade when you can and drink water.

 

[amamax2]

Thanks Skiingfast - GAC is what I meant! (Did it used to be called SAP - what corner of my mind did I pull that from? )

And I forgot to mention go on weekdays of possible, so glad you did too!

 

[ter-moo]

We've gone in August several times. It's really not THAT bad if you get up early and get to the parks at opening time. You are going late enough in August that some kids are back at school already, and some have sports and orientations scheduled that keep families from going, too.

Not that it will be quiet, but if you use strategies (get there early, have a plan, utilize FastPass and your brother's special GAC pass) you will be fine. It's nice to spend the crowded afternoons swimming, napping or going someplace else (beach, shopping, sightseeing, etc.) Collect as many Fastpasses as you can in the mornings (remember you can get another one as soon as the initial time on your current one has passed, or after two hours, whichever comes first--and you don't have to use them in the window of time they say... just anytime after that). Then you can use those for a few more rides if you go back in the evenings to see shows, parades, fireworks, etc.

It's honestly doable!

 

[skiingfast]

Not that it will be quiet, but if you use strategies (get there early, have a plan, utilize FastPass and your brother's special GAC pass) you will be fine.

In conjunction with this, use RiderSwap on rides that aren't HCA.

 

[Flitterific]

I went the first weekend the SoCal APs were unblocked in August 2009 and the crowds were a little scary (but those were the days when I was still new to DIS and did not know better). This year, I went August 1-4 and the crowds were a lot more manageable but still crazy due to the recent opening of WoC. However, like PPs have mentioned, if you go their early and utilize the FP system, it really isn't that bad. Simply go on as many rides as possible in the morning while collecting FPs, go back to the hotel for an afternoon nap/pool time and then hit the parks again when you guys are well-rested. Plus, you can utilize the GAC that amamax and skiingfast mentioned, which should really cut your waiting time.

Also, I know WoC does have a special viewing area for families with GAC and those with strollers. Just inquire with the CMs at the WoC FP distribution center when you guys get your FPs. Fantasmic also has certain areas that are reserved for sitting only (not sure if they have an area for wheelchairs) but just ask go to City Hall and ask...I'm sure they'll be able to help you. The only problem might be viewing the fireworks - you'll want to get there really early to get a good spot.

Don't stress too much though - it's not going to be that bad. The best tip I have for you though is to avoid the parade routes during parade times (especially on Main Street!). Being stuck on Main Street during a parade with a wheelchair/stroller can be very scary, especially during peak season

 

[CrystalS]

Hi,

I'm not sure if you have any flexibility in your dates, but have you considered going in February?
It's a lovely time to go, can get a bit chilly in the evening, but the crowd levels are usually pretty low.
I went a few years back in Feb and there was hardly a wait for any of the rides and the streets/pathways were not overly crowded, which made it nice to see everything.

If August is the only time your able to go, then I would do as the others have suggested and try going during the week vs weekends. There may be a lot of people there trying to visit the parks before the kids go back to school, but I'm sure you could still have a wonderful time.

If you will be staying at a Disney hotel, or a Good Neighbor hotel, be sure to take advantage of the Morning Madness early entry time that you are entitled to. It will mean less crowds and would make it easier for your brother to really see the park better.

If you want any help in planning your visit please feel free to PM me, I'd be happy to help in any way.

 

[Flitterific]

Hi,

I'm not sure if you have any flexibility in your dates, but have you considered going in February?
It's a lovely time to go, can get a bit chilly in the evening, but the crowd levels are usually pretty low.
I went a few years back in Feb and there was hardly a wait for any of the rides and the streets/pathways were not overly crowded, which made it nice to see everything.

If August is the only time your able to go, then I would do as the others have suggested and try going during the week vs weekends. There may be a lot of people there trying to visit the parks before the kids go back to school, but I'm sure you could still have a wonderful time.

If you will be staying at a Disney hotel, or a Good Neighbor hotel, be sure to take advantage of the Morning Madness early entry time that you are entitled to. It will mean less crowds and would make it easier for your brother to really see the park better.

If you want any help in planning your visit please feel free to PM me, I'd be happy to help in any way.

Yes, definitely take advantage of Magic Mornings (MMs). You get one if you get at least a 3 day PH and if you stay on a Disney property, you get MMs every day they are available. MMs are available on all days that start with a T or a S (i.e. Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays). You basically get to enter Disneyland an hour before it opens to the general public. From what I've heard, you can do A LOT in that golden hour. Have fun!

 

[Mugglemama]

One of THE best trips we ever had to DLR was in August, and I would go back at that time in a hearbeat.

The only time we were dealing with a wheelchair at DLR, was this past July (my MIL was in a wheelchair). It did make the trip quite exhausting, I'll be honest (of course, we wouldn't have had it any other way because truly, that trip was FOR her -). We arrived at the security tables an hour before opening each day, and she and FIL met us in line closer to opening - getting their early helped, although on MM, it was completely pointless - crowds were worse than on non MM days that week, ugh!

So, yes, it was tough for DH to deal with his mom's wheelchair, and we were also trying to keep track of the 2 little girls they are raising, plus our own, so like you, we had multiple children to keep track of while there. It's not super easy with kids under 10 - dealing with a wheelchair, crowds, etc. It's very sweet that you want to take your brother to Disneyland though, and I hope you all have a wonderful time. Having just done a similarly themed DLR trip (the "let's make great memories with extended family" theme, that is), I will say that despite the amount of work, and the exhaustion that can result, I think these types of trips are very, very much worth it.

Now, we've also been to the Grand Canyon several times (once with MIL, FIL, and the 2 nieces), and I really MUST say, that that place would scare the heck out of me with a wheelchair. Plus small kids? That makes me edgy just thinking about it.

The Grand Canyon is not wheelchair-friendly, overall. The viewing areas mostly have steep, narrow stairways (my MIL was able to walk a bit at the Grand Canyon, so we weren't dealing with a wheelchair there), and in many places, there really are NO fences, railings, etc., to keep a person from just falling (or rolling) off the edge. There are definitely some better viewing areas, where you can park and there is a low wall at the edge. Your bro could view from there, but keep a tight hold on those kids. It never ceases to amaze me how easy it would be for people to just fall off into the canyon (and they do - for instance, a 4 year old fell to her death just last summer).

Additionally, the Tusayan Ruins will be tough to do with a wheelchair. The other area where that weird, circular tower building is (well known at the canyon, but I just can't think of the name), is very hilly and the building itself would be completely impossible with a wheelchair, as the gift shop is usually packed and the aisles are extremely narrow. And the staircase going up is ridiculous, even for people who aren't in wheelchairs.

There is sort of a "village" at the South Rim (which is probably the entrance you'll be using), just inside (not the little town before you enter the park) the national park entrance, with a restaurant, shops, etc. Maybe you could plan the bulk of your time over there, have a nice meal, take advantage of the views from inside the restaurant, etc. as opposed to spending much time at the actual edge of the canyon. I would absolutely recommend getting a VERY good feel for the layout and demographics of Grand Canyon national park (use Google Earth, informational guides, etc.) before visiting, and have a plan of what you're going to do while there. Just my 2 cents from my own experiences there.

 

[Carrie in AZ]

My #1 tip is to arrive early, early, early and get into the park as early as possible -- you will never regret getting an early start.

My other tip for your family would be to plan on attending a character meal or two. That way, you can experience lots of character interaction without having to wait in line to see characters. I think that would work out so well for your family. We just did the character breakfast at Paradise Pier (over Thanksgiving), and we thought it was excellent. We've been to Goofy's Kitchen in the past and have enjoyed that, too.

Finally, you are smart to be planning on spending quite a few days at the Parks. When you don't need to jam it all into one or two days, it surely reduces the stress level. And, spending time at the pool and taking naps during the day will be SO ENJOYABLE!! We are a big "resort family" -- we love spending time at our hotel -- and always have a blast during the breaks. And, once again, since you will be there a few days, you don't need to be rushing back to the Parks or thinking about what you are missing in the Parks while you are in the pool!!

Have a wonderful vacation. I can already tell it is going to be MAGICAL!!

 

[MemoriesintheMaking]

Thanks so much, each and every one of you, for assuring me that I'm not completely out there for attempting this in August. I appreciate all of the tips and experiences. You guys are great!!

For certain shows there is an area carved out for people to view the show while remaining in their wheelchair. Ask cast members about those viewing options.

Also, I know WoC does have a special viewing area for families with GAC and those with strollers. Just inquire with the CMs at the WoC FP distribution center when you guys get your FPs. Fantasmic also has certain areas that are reserved for sitting only (not sure if they have an area for wheelchairs) but just ask go to City Hall and ask...I'm sure they'll be able to help you. The only problem might be viewing the fireworks - you'll want to get there really early to get a good spot.

Don't stress too much though - it's not going to be that bad. The best tip I have for you though is to avoid the parade routes during parade times (especially on Main Street!). Being stuck on Main Street during a parade with a wheelchair/stroller can be very scary, especially during peak season

I do remember reading that the WOC wheelchair seating area was pretty good. I can't wait to see WOC!

I will definitely stop in City Hall and see what they recommend as far as parade/fireworks viewing spots for his chair. And I remember from experience to avoid Main Street at parade time - at all costs!!

First of all, don't worry about asking questions..this board is super friendly and helpful!

Second, you have done a wonderful thing by inviting your brother into your home! My neighbor has her Gramma living with her, and while it is stressful and hard at times, the benefits they are all receiving, especially the gramma, outweigh everything else, and I know it is the same for your family and your brother.

Ok, now on to your question: Hopefully others will chime in who have specifically gone at that time, but I know I have read recently that this past year the last week in August was very uncrowded, even with the unblocked APs. Some kids are back in school already; others are getting ready for school.

Regardless, you will have plenty of time there - make sure to get a SAP (special pass because of your brother's wheelchair) for lines. It will be a special and magical trip.


ETA:

I just did a search on August crowds....several people who went this past August said the last week was uncrowded, but some think that was do to a heat wave we had that week. Most who have been in August have gone prior to the APs being unblocked and say it is busy, but very manageable. It doesn't sound like that week is crazy busy in the least, so your brother should be fine. Just be aware it probably will be HOT!

Thanks - you are very kind. Busy but manageable sounds, well, manageable!

One of THE best trips we ever had to DLR was in August, and I would go back at that time in a hearbeat.

The only time we were dealing with a wheelchair at DLR, was this past July (my MIL was in a wheelchair). It did make the trip quite exhausting, I'll be honest (of course, we wouldn't have had it any other way because truly, that trip was FOR her -). We arrived at the security tables an hour before opening each day, and she and FIL met us in line closer to opening - getting their early helped, although on MM, it was completely pointless - crowds were worse than on non MM days that week, ugh!

So, yes, it was tough for DH to deal with his mom's wheelchair, and we were also trying to keep track of the 2 little girls they are raising, plus our own, so like you, we had multiple children to keep track of while there. It's not super easy with kids under 10 - dealing with a wheelchair, crowds, etc. It's very sweet that you want to take your brother to Disneyland though, and I hope you all have a wonderful time. Having just done a similarly themed DLR trip (the "let's make great memories with extended family" theme, that is), I will say that despite the amount of work, and the exhaustion that can result, I think these types of trips are very, very much worth it.

Now, we've also been to the Grand Canyon several times (once with MIL, FIL, and the 2 nieces), and I really MUST say, that that place would scare the heck out of me with a wheelchair. Plus small kids? That makes me edgy just thinking about it.

The Grand Canyon is not wheelchair-friendly, overall. The viewing areas mostly have steep, narrow stairways (my MIL was able to walk a bit at the Grand Canyon, so we weren't dealing with a wheelchair there), and in many places, there really are NO fences, railings, etc., to keep a person from just falling (or rolling) off the edge. There are definitely some better viewing areas, where you can park and there is a low wall at the edge. Your bro could view from there, but keep a tight hold on those kids. It never ceases to amaze me how easy it would be for people to just fall off into the canyon (and they do - for instance, a 4 year old fell to her death just last summer).

Additionally, the Tusayan Ruins will be tough to do with a wheelchair. The other area where that weird, circular tower building is (well known at the canyon, but I just can't think of the name), is very hilly and the building itself would be completely impossible with a wheelchair, as the gift shop is usually packed and the aisles are extremely narrow. And the staircase going up is ridiculous, even for people who aren't in wheelchairs.

There is sort of a "village" at the South Rim (which is probably the entrance you'll be using), just inside (not the little town before you enter the park) the national park entrance, with a restaurant, shops, etc. Maybe you could plan the bulk of your time over there, have a nice meal, take advantage of the views from inside the restaurant, etc. as opposed to spending much time at the actual edge of the canyon. I would absolutely recommend getting a VERY good feel for the layout and demographics of Grand Canyon national park (use Google Earth, informational guides, etc.) before visiting, and have a plan of what you're going to do while there. Just my 2 cents from my own experiences there.

Thanks so much for your help with this - I remember reading about your trip and nodding in agreement with so much of what you said. I think this will be a very special trip, not to be traded for anything, but I'm also expecting it to be pretty exhausting. We are already thinking about - in the next year or so after this upcoming trip - finding somewhere quick to get away just with our kids. We've got great friends who are there for respite care when we need to get away for a bit. I understand your wanting to go back to DL with just your immediate family.

And thank you SO much for your input on the Grand Canyon part of our trip. I will save your tips to read again as I plan further. I'm a very "Careful, careful! Don't get too close!! Look out! Ack, I'm having a heart attack here!!!" type of person with these types of things. So, we will most definitely keep a close eye on both kids and brother the entire time.

My #1 tip is to arrive early, early, early and get into the park as early as possible -- you will never regret getting an early start.

My other tip for your family would be to plan on attending a character meal or two. That way, you can experience lots of character interaction without having to wait in line to see characters. I think that would work out so well for your family. We just did the character breakfast at Paradise Pier (over Thanksgiving), and we thought it was excellent. We've been to Goofy's Kitchen in the past and have enjoyed that, too.

Finally, you are smart to be planning on spending quite a few days at the Parks. When you don't need to jam it all into one or two days, it surely reduces the stress level. And, spending time at the pool and taking naps during the day will be SO ENJOYABLE!! We are a big "resort family" -- we love spending time at our hotel -- and always have a blast during the breaks. And, once again, since you will be there a few days, you don't need to be rushing back to the Parks or thinking about what you are missing in the Parks while you are in the pool!!

Have a wonderful vacation. I can already tell it is going to be MAGICAL!!

Thanks!! We've made Goofy's Kitchen our sort of traditional first meal at DLR - the afternoon/evening we arrive, before we actually enter DL the next morning. We love it, and I know my brother will really enjoy all the character interaction. It will be nice for him to get to meet a few characters so easily, without the lines and heat, etc.

We will make being there bright and early a big part of our strategy, for sure. And I am looking forward to having enough days there to enjoy the hotel and resort area more fully, with lots of down time.

For August coming up the APs get unblocked the last few days of the month. This is later than in 2010. I would aim for the first few weeks to avoid any barrages of locals. If you must go the third week it should work out. Also weekends are much busier in general all year long.

As Anamax mentioned be ready for heat. DL may be very hot. The Grand Canyon will definitely be scorching. Just be prepared for that. Take advantage of shade when you can and drink water.

Thanks for your help with all of this! I think we will plan on all weekdays, especially since fireworks and late hours during the week are a bonus of summertime visits. We'll just avoid any weekend days altogether. And the heat...well, I'll try prepare myself. The heat and I do not get along, but I guess it won't kill me. And, hey, the pool will just feel that much better, right? AC will be our friend!

Again, everyone, thanks so much for your help. Each comment means a lot! I think we are ready to do some serious planning for that week. Now I just need to watch out for those special offers and PIN codes in the mail!! And do lots of saving!

I can't wait!!!

 

[Mugglemama]

Thanks so much for your help with this - I remember reading about your trip and nodding in agreement with so much of what you said. I think this will be a very special trip, not to be traded for anything, but I'm also expecting it to be pretty exhausting. We are already thinking about - in the next year or so after this upcoming trip - finding somewhere quick to get away just with our kids. We've got great friends who are there for respite care when we need to get away for a bit. I understand your wanting to go back to DL with just your immediate family.

And thank you SO much for your input on the Grand Canyon part of our trip. I will save your tips to read again as I plan further. I'm a very "Careful, careful! Don't get too close!! Look out! Ack, I'm having a heart attack here!!!" type of person with these types of things. So, we will most definitely keep a close eye on both kids and brother the entire time.

Yes, it was something I'd never trade. My MIL will likely never get to go again (she is in poor health), and she was like a little kid at Disneyland - she had the most wonderful time.

Just wanted to note: I noticed a previous poster asked if you could do your trip in February instead...just wanted to say, incase you're not already aware, that the weather at the Grand Canyon can get really scary, really fast in the Winter/early Spring months. We took my Dad about 7 years ago, and it was late March/early April. The sun was out when we got there, but then the clouds rolled in FAST, and we decided to get back on the road to home (only lived about 90 minutes West of the Grand Canyon at the time), and 5 minutes later, we were caught in a BLIZZARD. It was scary, the road got bad FAST. Weather can change very quickly up there.

Just food for thought as you do your planning.

 

[sierranevada]

I have gone all three months of the summer including July 4th and have found that August is a better month crowd wise - June to me was the worst! So I think you will have a great time. Your plan to go during the week is spot on and just take your time and enjoy!

Make sure you take lots of pictures - photopass is great!

Have a wonderful time!

 

[Brady's Mom]

DH and I have been in mid July - but it was just the 2 of us for his birthday. We found going early and collecting FP's to be the way to go. We loved the down time at the hotel for a nap and a swim.

I sunburn easily and wish that I had a hat with me - but hats make me so hot that I would still have been miserable. But, on the shade note - we used to have a smallish umbrella that was designed to fit on the pop up camping chairs or on a stroller and something like that would be great for your brother's chair. We found ours at WalMart in the camping section, but it was 3 or 4 years ago now. If you start looking now you could probably find something that would work for him. It was adjustable and could be positioned to block most of the glaring sun without blocking too much of his view.

Also the misty fan thingies that have been talked about on this board seem like a really good idea. There are some that don't require any batteries (which to me is good) and help to keep you cool.

I hope you have a wonderful trip!

 

[MemoriesintheMaking]

Hi,

I'm not sure if you have any flexibility in your dates, but have you considered going in February?
It's a lovely time to go, can get a bit chilly in the evening, but the crowd levels are usually pretty low.
I went a few years back in Feb and there was hardly a wait for any of the rides and the streets/pathways were not overly crowded, which made it nice to see everything.

If August is the only time your able to go, then I would do as the others have suggested and try going during the week vs weekends. There may be a lot of people there trying to visit the parks before the kids go back to school, but I'm sure you could still have a wonderful time.

If you will be staying at a Disney hotel, or a Good Neighbor hotel, be sure to take advantage of the Morning Madness early entry time that you are entitled to. It will mean less crowds and would make it easier for your brother to really see the park better.

If you want any help in planning your visit please feel free to PM me, I'd be happy to help in any way.

Yes, it was something I'd never trade. My MIL will likely never get to go again (she is in poor health), and she was like a little kid at Disneyland - she had the most wonderful time.

Just wanted to note: I noticed a previous poster asked if you could do your trip in February instead...just wanted to say, incase you're not already aware, that the weather at the Grand Canyon can get really scary, really fast in the Winter/early Spring months. We took my Dad about 7 years ago, and it was late March/early April. The sun was out when we got there, but then the clouds rolled in FAST, and we decided to get back on the road to home (only lived about 90 minutes West of the Grand Canyon at the time), and 5 minutes later, we were caught in a BLIZZARD. It was scary, the road got bad FAST. Weather can change very quickly up there.

Just food for thought as you do your planning.

Crystal, thanks so much for your advice! I really do love the idea of a late winter/early spring trip, and I think that's what we will do next time, when it is just DLR on the agenda. I think I would love visiting in the cooler weather.

But, yes, the Grand Canyon weather is another reason why we are going when we are. I don't want to be driving over any mountain passes along the way during iffy weather.

I have gone all three months of the summer including July 4th and have found that August is a better month crowd wise - June to me was the worst! So I think you will have a great time. Your plan to go during the week is spot on and just take your time and enjoy!

Make sure you take lots of pictures - photopass is great!

Have a wonderful time!

We will definitely utilize photopass as much as we can, and take tons of pics. Hmm, now I have to decide if I need a new camera! I think....yes!

DH and I have been in mid July - but it was just the 2 of us for his birthday. We found going early and collecting FP's to be the way to go. We loved the down time at the hotel for a nap and a swim.

I sunburn easily and wish that I had a hat with me - but hats make me so hot that I would still have been miserable. But, on the shade note - we used to have a smallish umbrella that was designed to fit on the pop up camping chairs or on a stroller and something like that would be great for your brother's chair. We found ours at WalMart in the camping section, but it was 3 or 4 years ago now. If you start looking now you could probably find something that would work for him. It was adjustable and could be positioned to block most of the glaring sun without blocking too much of his view.

Also the misty fan thingies that have been talked about on this board seem like a really good idea. There are some that don't require any batteries (which to me is good) and help to keep you cool.

I hope you have a wonderful trip!

That is a brilliant idea about the clippy sun umbrellas. Thank you, thank you! I will definitely look for one for his chair. He loves to sit and scenery watch, and if he had one of those, I wouldn't worry about his arms burning even with layers of sunblock. Greeeat idea! And the misting fans will come in handy, too. Actually, his chair will come in handy, since he carries a big backpack on the back of it, and we can load it up with water bottles, snacks, etc. without anyone having to carry the load. Ooh, I hadn't thought of that yet!

Well, I talked it over with DH last night, and I think we are going for it! Eeee, that's just over 8 months away! Now comes the time when I'm obsessively planning but trying not to bore DH to death with all of the details. That's tricky!