"I'm NOT a Princess, I'm Izzy!" - May '15 Land/Sea ~ Updated 6/4: Link to Disneyland TR!!!

[afwdwfan]

Does he scream and cry for the rest of the meal? That's the hardest thing - she was a mess when we wouldn't take her back. Hopefully she's grown past that stage now...

Thankfully, no!

Same here. I think you and I think alike on many things. I believe I saw in another thread that you also don't like coffee, so we have that in common too.

Yeah, I'm sure you've seen it somewhere. Probably more than once. I'm usually harassing the Starbucks fans around here.

(side note – she decided she likes showers recently, so that’s what we do now – much easier! )

DS likes showers. DD still wants baths. It is so much easier when we can convince her to hop in the shower though!

A CM did eventually come over and tell me they had meatballs now. However, they hadn’t even started making it, so I had to wait for that to happen. In the meantime, the CM realized how long I’d waited for this and asked if I wanted a free cookie or something. Well, on the way in this time, I’d noticed they now had the chocolate peanut butter bar I’d wanted, so I asked for that and she got it for me (free).

The whole waiting fiasco sounds horrible, but I'm glad they at least made an effort to make it up to you by buying you off with free food.

Eventually, my food was ready and I brought everything up to the room. It was 10:50pm by the time we sat down to eat. Over an hour since I had first gone down to grab some “quick service” food. So much for that “early night” we thought we were going to have.

Izzy was asleep by then, so Dug and I sat down at the dimly lit table and ate our hard-won food and treats, while sipping our free Diet Cokes. Everything was good, but not worth the ordeal. I especially enjoyed the bakery treats. Photos of all:

Well, I guess it was kind of nice to have a nice meal without interference from Izzy... even if it was ridiculously late. I'm sorry Dug didn't get to do his solo trip to MK, but I can understand why. Sometimes it seems like a great idea, but then when the time comes you really just need to get some rest.

Because it’s another Monday-Friday cruise, we’ve talked about adding some Disney resort time on the weekends. Not as extensive as the May trip, but getting a taste of WDW, quite possibly without park tickets. My thought was to get our park fill by going to the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party one night. Izzy might even hit 40 inches by then (she's 38" now, so could do Mine Train).

Sounds awesome! I like it because it is hard to stay away from the parks and MVMCP will give you a chance to get in there and enjoy some attractions and the park experience. But it is nice to have a few days that aren't park days. It kind of forces you to slow down and experience some of the resorts and other things.

Of course, with new things opening up in the other parks, it would take a ridiculous amount of restraint to not get tickets. Ugh.

Good point. But unless you're going to plan a second trip within 12 months and grab an AP, the price of single day or 2 day tickets will likely make it a little more unappealing now.

So, on a totally different note, we’ve talked about going to France instead. Izzy is obsessed with the Eiffel Tower and keeps talking about going to Disneyland Paris. I love that she’s 3 and she totally understands the difference between WDW, DLR, and DLP – even though many adults don’t. Dug’s parents are both retired French teachers and have been talking about going back to France without bringing a large group of high school kids, as they always did. Heck, MIL has told Izzy several times that she is going to take her to France sometime (um, I’d like to chaperone, please?)

France!!! With French speaking tour guides!! Sounds awesome!

However, I think it’s clear that will break our $3800 budget

But banking a couple of years together would work nicely. And of course, Disneyland Paris. That would be a great trip.

It would be great to go out and visit everyone and they want us to join them out there. I think we could do a long-weekend for pretty cheap – just the airfare and hotel, really. We might be able to work in visits to some of Dug’s relatives in Washington too. So, that would be a nice trip.

That could be done for really cheap. And aside from just visiting family, the PNW really is a beautiful place to visit.

So, that would be a nice trip. The second “smaller” trip is actually going to Cabo San Lucas. I know that doesn’t sound “small”, but we’ve had an open offer to join some (retired) friends of Dug’s that have wintered there for years. They always rent a large house and invite friends to come visit and stay free with them. It looks awesome.

Um... free room in Cabo? Why are we even debating this???

I have some remote work flexibility, so I could do some work too, but most likely would just take vacation, as I have a big pile of time built up. Sun Country usually has deals to Cabo each winter, under $400/person. Plus, we have enough Delta Skymiles for 2 tickets right now, maybe more by then. So, lots of options and likely very low cost, considering.

That really wouldn't hurt the budget much at all. Maybe even do this and put a few dollars in the bank to go towards France next year???

The other thing I’ve been thinking about is piggybacking on Dug’s work travel/conferences. That’s what we did for Disneyland last month. There is a decent chance they go back to the same resort in Palm Springs next year – another chance for Disneyland?

Um... yeah!!!

I think I've already encouraged you to blow your entire travel budget about 5 times, haven't I?

But there are other conferences pending. Long shot, but maybe Ireland in the fall. Major stretch, but Dug applied to speak at a conference in Italy that pays travel costs for him and hotel that he can share with family, if accepted. If that panned out, it would move up high on the list.

Oh... this makes it even tougher. Ireland and Italy are both on my bucket list. If he gets that conference, that would be a really hard offer to pass on.

In the more immediate future, we’re considering visiting my Grandma in Wisconsin and tacking on a night or two at a waterpark resort in Wisconsin Dells on the way home, as Izzy’s daycare provider is on vacation for a few days (I have separate travel funds allocated to Grandma visit trips).

Grandma trips are always fun. I hope this works out so that you can do it.

Dug attended another conference recently…and he flew into MCO! Yes, Orlando! But, alas, no Disney tickets. He did this conference on the cheap by staying with a co-worker that lives in the area (who we actually met up with on this past May trip). When they were driving to dinner, he caught site of this rocket launch (Space X):

Cool!

He had borrowed his co-worker’s car and got to try out the fancy new parking garage. He loved that it had displays to show you how many spots were left on each floor and in each row. He also appreciated the walking lanes designed to keep the people and cars apart. He had a quick and easy parking experience and said traffic flow was much better too. Then he wandered around and took lots of photos:

I'm glad it worked out well. I've heard that parking is still sometimes a pain despite the information boards.

(still have a piece or two left - okay now only one piece after doing this update...).

I'm impressed you still have any left at all.

also just remembered that he had two small chocolate squares ($3 each! ), so we just ate those right now too!

As a side note, he scoured Disney Springs for Rey items/toys and couldn't find anything. That really needs to change - a female Star Wars hero should have tons of merchandise available!

That kind of surprises me, but then again, that's Disney for you. They merchandised Frozen well, but it seems like you can usually find all sorts of crap you really don't want, but if there is something specific you're looking for that seems like it should be something simple that they'd sell the crap out of, you can't find it anywhere.

This was the Reggie's Revenge. When the waiter dropped it off, he said, "Careful with that drink - some people find it constricting."

Excellent choice. Both on the establishment and the drink.

And she got to enjoy a different kind of spin on the second ride. They had spinning teacups on the carousel:

Why????

It was a cute ride. Who knew malls have turned into toddler amusement parks?

Well, don't forget, malls were invented with the sole purpose of separating us from our money. Kind of like Disney World. So it makes sense.

Everything was very tasty and this was a much better experience than our previous one (bad food and so-so service last time).

I'm glad that your experience was better this time.

 

[pkondz]

I mean, in the span of like 9 months we spent 4 nights on a Disney cruise, 8 nights at Disney World, 5 nights at Disneyland, and 4 nights at Aulani.

You are right to place the "faint" smiley there!

In fact, strangely, it feels like we haven’t been to WDW in a long time (despite me still writing the first segment of this TR! )

I feel your pain.

So, on a totally different note, we’ve talked about going to France instead.

Funny. That's the first thing I thought of.
But I'll be honest. Is Izzy just a little too young? She'd enjoy it, yes. But will she remember it?
I only have vague memories of those years.
Only you can know for sure of course. Just my 2 cents.

However, I think it’s clear that will break our $3800 budget,

Oh, it will.

Something about having your 3-year-old go googly-eyed at pictures of the Eiffel Tower changes your priorities.

And then there's that... so.
Go to France.

Dug attended another conference recently…and he flew into MCO! Yes, Orlando! But, alas, no Disney tickets.

Must've seemed weird to be there with no WDW tix.

When they were driving to dinner, he caught site of this rocket launch (Space X):

Cool!

Well, to Dug. His co-worker was like, “Yeah, we see that all the time.”

He had borrowed his co-worker’s car and got to try out the fancy new parking garage. He loved that it had displays to show you how many spots were left on each floor and in each row.

Interesting.

He actually Facetimed me during this walk, so that I could feel like I was there.

Aw. Nice of him.

So, I had him custom make me a Mickey rice krispy bar with dark chocolate and Butterfinger. It made it home safe and I enjoyed every bite :

He also stopped into the Ganachery and got me the most expensive chocolate bar ever (I think like $8! ):

Worth it?

He liked this shirt for Izzy, but passed on it:

oooh... too bad. I like that one.

a female Star Wars hero should have tons of merchandise available!

Yes!!

The atmosphere seemed much more vibrant, there was constant live music, places were open later - it felt like one continuous place along the water vs. several separate areas like Downtown Disney.

Cool! It's been years since I've been.

"Careful with that drink - some people find it constricting."

Sometime after that, he found a gelato shop:

mmmmm... gelato....

They forgot to bring his drink until partway through the movie, then forgot to bring the refill until the very end.

?? What the heck?

He enjoyed it, but said it was a distracted movie watching experience, due to waiters scurrying around and such.

We have a theatre here that serves food too. But all orders have to be in before about 5 minutes before showtime and there's no service during the show.

We were in a local mall recently

Not MOA, I see. Thought it was at first.

We also noticed a little train making laps around the mall

Cute.

We had been there once before and not had a great experience

I've been there lots... and never have a great experience.
But when kids are little, the place is a magnet.

Izzy had been promised another ride on the Log Chute

Been on that one lots too.
It's a fun ride.

The line turned out to be really long:

It always is.

It changed colors and had a moon,

What? Is that new?

Seemed like a lot smaller space than they used to have, but worked (they had relocated within the mall recently).

Nevermind. I see that it is. I wonder why they moved? Too far stuck in the corner?

Izzy ordered the mac and cheese kids meal, no surprise there:

Nope!

 

[soniam]

You should definitely wait and do a 7 day cruise. I can't do anything shorter now. You may be tempted to save money and do someone besides DCL, but you will be a little disappointed. We really like RCCL and did one when DS was 4. It was one of the best family vacations we have ever done, even though DS got sick. Last cruise we did DCL. We couldn't do anything else now, if DS is coming with us. DCL just does so much more for kids. RCCL was nice but just not the same. If it were an adult only cruise, we would definitely consider RCCL again, especially since we could drive to Galveston instead of having to fly. We are currently waiting for the summer 2017 itineraries to be released to book a 7 day Western Caribbean out of Port Canaveral. I would love to do the Star Wars cruises, but both this year and next year, they occur the week before and the week after DS has Spring Break

We took DS to Europe when he was 3. I wouldn't do it again like we did. However, I think your plans would be much easier. We stayed in London for about a week, took the Chunnel to Paris, rented an RV and drove it to Le Mans, camped out in the infield during the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, drove it back to Paris, and then stayed in Paris for about a week. It was exhausting, and we had a Tube strike in London on the day that we had to get to the train station to head to Paris It sounds like you wouldn't be traveling to as many places. Plus, having family would be a huge help. Also, the language barriers won't be as frustrating with your in-laws. My 4 years of High School French was not enough. Paris seems to have no elevators or escalators. Carrying all of our luggage, DS, and his stroller through the main Paris train station was terrible. DS is a picky eater and pretty much lived off bread and eggs the whole trip. The things we did right were to stay in places with 2 rooms (1 bedroom & 1 living room) and have a fridge and microwave/cooker. DS adjusted to the time change better than we did, but we stuck to his sleep/nap schedule. On the plane, we had audio books for him and headphones for the audio books and inflight entertainment. We brought coloring stuff, but he didn't use it on the plane. We also bought a new stuffed animal at Build-a-Bear just for the trip. He loved the Eiffel Tower. There was a cool naval museum near the Eiffel Tower across the bridge. It was near a really cool carrousel. We also brought an audio guide of the Louvre (it was from Rick Steves). He sat in his stroller listening to the guide and then music, which allowed us to actually see a decent amount of the Louvre.

We were just at Disney Springs last week. When was Dug there? I think I saw that same musician. He was near the gelato place where we also got gelato. Reminded us of our visit to Florence before DS was born. We had appetizers and drinks at Jock Lindsey's too and enjoyed it. Disney Springs had such a better atmosphere than when we visited last March. I am excited to see the progress in July.

 

[FantasiaMagic]

Wow! Lots and lots of options to choose from! So many I lost count
I like the idea of the Disney Cruise and staying at a Disney resort for a few nights, with no parks! AKL is a lot of fun in itself, and the pool is really nice!

But my favorite option I think is going to France! That is so cute Izzy gets excited every time she sees the Eiffel Tower! And you could do DLP! While it's something different then a regular Disney trip, you STILL get to go to a Disney Park! That trip is on my bucket list as well! If it works out that you can take that trip, I say go for it! That sounds like the experience of a lifetime!

Love all the pictures your DH took of Disney Springs. They really did do a great job with it. I am excited to see it this summer.

Also, Izzy has gotten so big!!! She looks so much more mature then the pictures from the TRs you have going on right now!

Good luck with all the possible trip plans. I look forward to hearing what you and your family decide to do!

 

[schmass]

So many fun options for you to consider! That would be amazing if you guys get the Italy deal to work out - fingers crossed for Dug!

7 day cruises are amazing. If you book right when a new itinerary is released and use your OBB discount, it could be in your budget. As I type that, I realize that would be for the cruise only - not figuring in airfare, transport to the port, excursions, etc.

I do like the 4 day cruise plus Disney weekends at the resort/Disney Springs, but like you said, it would be really hard to not buy park tickets! And a 4 day cruise is so short.

We're kind of in the same boat (ha!) where after our May cruise we don't really have any vacation plans. We'll do a couple weekend trips to Storyland this year, and I'm planning Aulani for 2018, but not sure what next year looks like yet. And I know I'll book another cruise onboard, but not sure when we'll sail.

Do you know how tall kids have to be to go on the log ride at MoA? We'll be near there this weekend and I'm wondering if Rory might be tall enough to ride.

Izzy is looking like such a little girl now (rather than baby/toddler). It's so amazing to watch these kids grow up, isn't it?

Oh, and your Boardwalk Bakery experience - that is insane! At least you got some free stuff, but I can't believe how long you had to wait. We've always gotten in and out of there really quickly, but I think we just got pre-made stuff.

Loved the pictures of Disney Springs. So glad to hear that Dug was impressed with it. I'm hoping we can fit in a quick trip there during our May vacation, but we'll see.

 

[Dugette]

Thanks everyone for all the great feedback - it really helps! Will make further responses later, but just answering a quick question:

Do you know how tall kids have to be to go on the log ride at MoA? We'll be near there this weekend and I'm wondering if Rory might be tall enough to ride.

36 inches! Is Rory at that yet? I hope so! It seems crazy because she's too short for nearly everything else there, but this ride with big drops and no restraints (which will give you a minor heart attack on the hills with a small child) has such a low minimum. They also require a FREE chaperone until they are 47", which means that a parent rides free and you only pay for the child (single ride ticket is $7.61). Before Izzy's first ride several months ago, we stood at the bottom and watched people come down the hill to make sure she knew what she was getting into and still wanted to do it (obviously, she did!), but might not be a bad idea, so you don't have a terrified child plunging down a hill with you. (As long as I'm throwing out random Log Chute tips, we always sit in the back (they leave the front open then) and don't really get wet, other than a sprinkle. Also, I brace myself with an arm on the back of the front seat when we go down the two big drops - otherwise, the force of stopping at the end pushes me forward into Izzy and I don't like smushing her, haha).

 

[schmass]

Thanks everyone for all the great feedback - it really helps! Will make further responses later, but just answering a quick question:



36 inches! Is Rory at that yet? I hope so! It seems crazy because she's too short for nearly everything else there, but this ride with big drops and no restraints (which will give you a minor heart attack on the hills with a small child) has such a low minimum. They also require a FREE chaperone until they are 47", which means that a parent rides free and you only pay for the child (single ride ticket is $7.61). Before Izzy's first ride several months ago, we stood at the bottom and watched people come down the hill to make sure she knew what she was getting into and still wanted to do it (obviously, she did!), but might not be a bad idea, so you don't have a terrified child plunging down a hill with you. (As long as I'm throwing out random Log Chute tips, we always sit in the back (they leave the front open then) and don't really get wet, other than a sprinkle. Also, I brace myself with an arm on the back of the front seat when we go down the two big drops - otherwise, the force of stopping at the end pushes me forward into Izzy and I don't like smushing her, haha).

Thanks for the quick response! I think he might be just 36 inches. I'll measure him tonight and then mention this to Michael. I'm wondering if this might be a little too much for him right now, though. Might be better to wait until the Barnstormer in May.

 

[Dugette]

Thanks for the quick response! I think he might be just 36 inches. I'll measure him tonight and then mention this to Michael. I'm wondering if this might be a little too much for him right now, though. Might be better to wait until the Barnstormer in May.

Yeah, hard to say if a little one is going to love it or not. The first time, Izzy told me she was "good scared" (i.e. - she liked it). This last time, she got mad at me for holding onto her on the hill, since she didn't want my protection anymore - they grow up so quick, ha! For what it's worth, even if you think his height is questionable, it's not like WDW - they really don't seem to police it. Nobody standing there when you enter the queue, just something you can measure against. And the loader has never once asked or really blinked at bringing her on (or other smaller kids in line). They are a bit loosy-goosy, it seems.

 

[TheMaxRebo]

Can't speak to all your vacation ideas but definitely think you should do something you really want and not just something for the sake of doing it (i.e., the shorter cruise ... how does that work if you want to re-book to a longer cruise, do you just make up the difference or would you lose the 10% savings?)

We've done Ireland and really enjoyed it. Haven't don't Portland but have done Seattle which was really cool. Also have done New Orleans which was tons of fun but a week was plenty!

I guess the cruise for your 40th is a think as that is our plan as of now - probably take 2017 off from vacations for the most part and then do a big Disney cruise during February break of 2018 for my 40th - which will also cover Olivia's 9th (which is kinda scary)

Looks like Dug had a great time and glad he feels Disney Springs has a good feeling to it, etc. - love that they are having so much live entertainment!

 

[Leshaface]

So I thought we were in a predicament between two trip options in October (Aulani and WDW) but man do you have it hard Doesn't it feel like there's not enough days in the year to do everything we want to do? Or a big enough budget either!

Paris is my dream one day. I've been obsessed since I was in Middle School and became even more obsessed when I found out that the opening date of the eiffel tower is my birthday Before we were even talking about Aulani (so mid 2015), we were tossing around the idea of going to Paris with DS during Summer of this year because we felt like by then, he would be a perfect International traveler and is getting, ever so slightly, more mature Sounds like Izzy is too and that she would do well by that time if you guys went! But yikes the price to get there and stay there is crazy! It would definitely take a hit on your 2016 budget and I'd think you'd get antsy to do SOMETHING this year.

And you're right about the cruise. 4 nights is really not enough, 7 nights is perfect! But there is a massive price difference between the two, even with the On Board Booking discount.

Yikes so many decisions, but i'm confident you'll figure out something, you always do!

He actually Facetimed me during this walk, so that I could feel like I was there. So, I had him custom make me a Mickey rice krispy bar with dark chocolate and Butterfinger. It made it home safe and I enjoyed every bite :

I would make him FaceTime me the entire time he was down there!

But oh my does it sound good

Agh this is brilliant!

"Careful with that drink - some people find it constricting."

 

[Imagineer5]

France high up on your list sounds awesome. We were just chatting last night about what a great vacation we had, especially at Aria's age and how fun it was with her. I am SO glad we took that trip even pregnant, it really made some wonderful memories for us as a last hurrah as a family of 3. Now of course we are excited to travel with maya down the road, but France was really terrific.

December really does sound wonderful. I wish we could make it work but our trip budget has decreased and we are saving for a trip next summer (2017) to Holland and Italy (maya's first Europe trip, eek) for our 10-year anniversary, plus a spring trip to Seattle (sometime in April during the tulip festival). I'm thinking about fitting in a weekend trip maybe early December for Maya's 1st birthday but otherwise our Disney plans end with the next trip in a couple weeks.

 

[Gracefulskinny]

She hated baths at the time, to a near-dangerous level, but we all survived (side note – she decided she likes showers recently, so that’s what we do now – much easier! )

we went through a phase of that too!

A CM did eventually come over and tell me they had meatballs now. However, they hadn’t even started making it, so I had to wait for that to happen.

Well, on the way in this time, I’d noticed they now had the chocolate peanut butter bar I’d wanted, so I asked for that and she got it for me (free).

Well at least there was that!

It was 10:50pm by the time we sat down to eat.

When they were driving to dinner, he caught site of this rocket launch (Space X):

Neat!

So, I had him custom make me a Mickey rice krispy bar with dark chocolate and Butterfinger. It made it home safe and I enjoyed every bite :

Its only the right thing to do after all. Little Miss still hasn't eaten hers from a few weeks ago. she keeps opting for the easter candy instead. DH and I are very near the point of caving and eating it ourselves.

He enjoyed it, but said it was a distracted movie watching experience, due to waiters scurrying around and such.

We tried one of those theaters near us. We felt the same way.

There was a double-decker carousel

Izzy wanted to wait, though – if she’s learned anything from Disney trips, it’s that she has to wait patiently in line for her turn.

 

[tehniqi]

I'm all caught up but I've really enjoyed your TR so far. My son will be around the same age Izzy was when we take our first mini trip to Disney in January so it's been helpful to see what to sort of expect.

 

[Dugette]

Ah yes. Mustn't forget the Peoplemover.

We must not!

You mean the three or four who'll still be able to afford it?

Well, motivation for them to do well in life.

I was! I really was!

Sorry!

Goofy is as Goofy does.

No one does anymore.

Nope.

Yeah, that was Izzy's college fund after all.

Hmmm, Disney College Program...

Sounds almost... Disney-ish.

Indeed.

That happens?!?!?

Not often.

I hear you!
I remember doing that hyper vigilance. It looked like one of the DDs was about to spill something. But with lightning fast reflexes I reached out and grabbed.... uh... knocked over my own drink.
Hers was fine.

I'll let you know as I get older.

Did it get old for you?

No, since we were just in and out for the restrooms. I could see how it would being seated in there, though.

Check.

One less thing to do at Disney Springs.

Way easier! DS has been taking showers since our WA/OR road trip last June and it's been great. Plus, we're trying to save as much water as possible around here so he's in there with DH

Perfect! So much easier than the whole bath ordeal.

Love how clean and fresh they are after they're all cleaned up

Me too.

You have such patience

Well, it was definitely running out.

Well that's an upside to the waiting.

It helped a bit.

Oh heck! My stomach would die if I ate that late!

Keep in mind that we had cheese sticks for first dinner, so we were more late-night-snacky by then.

Uh, oh. I don't like the sounds of this.

Because by now the adults were being goofy while sipping from a mickey.

Huh. Not many kids don't like baths.

She has never really liked them. Except for one brief period where she did, but she also enjoyed drinking the bathwater. She gives that as the reason for showers now, "I drink my bathwater."

Cute pic!

Thanks!

Here we go...

Mmmmm... bacon...

Slow food.

It took 20 minutes for them to figure out they didn't have meatballs?!?!?

I know, how does that happen?

Meatball fairy.

I'm sure Tink just needed to send one of her friends over.

Great... How about cooking them instead of telling me you have them.

Agreed.

That's it? How about comping the meal??

I'd already paid that non-discounted price, they weren't about to give any of that back.

That's the least they could do.
I mean that. It's the least.

"How about a nice in the Castle suite?"

An hour. For "fast" food.
Dug must've been wondering if you got abducted by aliens.

Well, since I'd stopped back up for a bit, he knew what was up. But it was ridiculous.

Darn. Not even the peanut butter bar?

I wouldn't wait an hour for it. But it was very good.

The mind is willing but the body is weak.

Oh my what a wait! That is crazy. At least the CM was really nice about offering up some free things (or prompting you to ask lol). Glad Izzy went to sleep in the meantime though.

Glad she got to sleep too and we didn't wake her up. The whole thing was quite a long ordeal, but the free stuff was nice.

Funny to me that she hates baths so much although I guess not surprising since she wasn't too into the pool either. Aria def differs on that front! She is a water baby.

Izzy enjoys swimming now, but she's not quite the water baby Aria is. She had a brief period of liking baths, but I was always telling her to stop drinking her bathwater - so I guess she decided that was impossible unless she switched to showers - she keeps saying she has to shower, "Because I was drinking my bathwater."

I think Dug made a good move to stay in, esp with an early breakfast the next day!

Yes, I'd say it was the right call.

Ugh, that is so annoying you had to wait that long for your food! At least you got some well earned freebies due to the trouble.

It was really annoying. If I'd had any idea, I'd have just gotten a pre-made sandwich or something, but I was too committed to the meatballs by the time I realized what a big fiasco it was going to be.

It's funny how kids can change with regards to their view of baths, etc. Emma used to hate baths and now she loves them and we often find her climbing into the tub whether there is water in there or not

I believe it. Izzy hated them for a long time, then loved them, then decided she was incapable of bathing without drinking water and needed to shower instead.

What an ordeal for dinner - especially in light of wanting it to be an early night/Solo MK night for Dug. At least they eventually realized how long you were waiting and offered up the free stuff. I mean, things happen - but at least try to make it right.

Yeah, not really how I thought that little errand was going to go. At least we got some drinks and bonus dessert, I guess.

Patience and politeness pays off! So glad to see they made good on having you wait and wait for the "quick service" food

Glad they did something for the trouble.

Isn't that how all Disney trips go?

Very true.

 

[Dugette]

Wow you're lucky you have so many options! I think I pretty much blew into our travel budget for the year with our cruise and wdw vacation. LOL. Well, not quite but close.

I believe it. A land and sea is super expensive! It's really two vacations back-to-back (that helped me rationalize it, since it cost at least twice as much as our normal vacations).

We also have a week planned with family somewhere this summer (no one can make up their minds so we may just do a road trip but the initial plan was vegas). We're definitely going to California to visit DH's family (which means Disneyland!!!) maybe September, and we have a week in Oahu in November.

Sounds good to me! I love hearing other people's travel plans!

I totally vote you move your cruise to 2017 and take the SWDAS cruise!! I think you guys will enjoy it and it is 7 nights which gives you more time on the Fantasy!

That is a good option - I'll add it to my list.

I also like the idea of tagging along on your DH's work trips! Italy and Ireland both sound really cool! Looks like he had fun at Disney Springs! Glad he was able to go to Jock Lindsey's!

He did have a great time checking out Disney Springs. We're still waiting to know for sure on Italy, but we don't think he will be selected as a speaker (some have been announced and he hasn't been contacted, but it's still not final).

Thankfully, no!

Yeah, I'm sure you've seen it somewhere. Probably more than once. I'm usually harassing the Starbucks fans around here.

DS likes showers. DD still wants baths. It is so much easier when we can convince her to hop in the shower though!

So much quicker and easier.

The whole waiting fiasco sounds horrible, but I'm glad they at least made an effort to make it up to you by buying you off with free food.

Me too.

Well, I guess it was kind of nice to have a nice meal without interference from Izzy... even if it was ridiculously late. I'm sorry Dug didn't get to do his solo trip to MK, but I can understand why. Sometimes it seems like a great idea, but then when the time comes you really just need to get some rest.

Exactly. I think he made the right call, so that he'd be fresh and ready for the morning's fun.

Sounds awesome! I like it because it is hard to stay away from the parks and MVMCP will give you a chance to get in there and enjoy some attractions and the park experience. But it is nice to have a few days that aren't park days. It kind of forces you to slow down and experience some of the resorts and other things.

I do really like the idea of this trip.

Good point. But unless you're going to plan a second trip within 12 months and grab an AP, the price of single day or 2 day tickets will likely make it a little more unappealing now.

Exactly.

France!!! With French speaking tour guides!! Sounds awesome!

It sure does!

But banking a couple of years together would work nicely. And of course, Disneyland Paris. That would be a great trip.

Sure would. I would really love to do this.

That could be done for really cheap. And aside from just visiting family, the PNW really is a beautiful place to visit.

It sure is - we were out there a couple years ago and enjoyed some time at the ocean and in the mountains. Lovely!

Um... free room in Cabo? Why are we even debating this???

That really wouldn't hurt the budget much at all. Maybe even do this and put a few dollars in the bank to go towards France next year???

Very true, that could work.

Um... yeah!!!

I think I've already encouraged you to blow your entire travel budget about 5 times, haven't I?

Yes, you have! You can see my predicament here.

Oh... this makes it even tougher. Ireland and Italy are both on my bucket list. If he gets that conference, that would be a really hard offer to pass on.

Agreed - we are currently on hold until we know for sure about Italy. It doesn't look likely, but we don't know for certain yet.

Grandma trips are always fun. I hope this works out so that you can do it.

It did - we just got back Wednesday night. I plan to do a mini-TR about it, actually.

Cool!

It really was (at least for him, since his co-worker is so used to seeing it).

I'm glad it worked out well. I've heard that parking is still sometimes a pain despite the information boards.

I suppose there are always problems that remain, but he did have a very good experience.

I'm impressed you still have any left at all.

Gone now!

That kind of surprises me, but then again, that's Disney for you. They merchandised Frozen well, but it seems like you can usually find all sorts of crap you really don't want, but if there is something specific you're looking for that seems like it should be something simple that they'd sell the crap out of, you can't find it anywhere.

Absolutely.

Excellent choice. Both on the establishment and the drink.

I actually did consult your TR when he asked for recommendations.

Why????

Because she loves it.

Well, don't forget, malls were invented with the sole purpose of separating us from our money. Kind of like Disney World. So it makes sense.

Very true.

I'm glad that your experience was better this time.

Me too!

You are right to place the "faint" smiley there!

Haha, yes.

I feel your pain.

Funny. That's the first thing I thought of.
But I'll be honest. Is Izzy just a little too young? She'd enjoy it, yes. But will she remember it?
I only have vague memories of those years.
Only you can know for sure of course. Just my 2 cents.

I wouldn't expect her to remember it forever. But I would expect her to enjoy it, us to enjoy it, and her to remember it for a while. We were just talking today that she remembers things from 2 years ago and has been mentioning them to us - and she was only 1 then! But Dug pointed out that he remembers things from 2 years ago, so why shouldn't she? It just won't be a strong memory in 20 years. Makes sense to me. I don't remember much about our Disneyland trip 10 years ago, so I get it.

Oh, it will.

And then there's that... so.
Go to France.

Haha, thanks.

Must've seemed weird to be there with no WDW tix.

The whole thing felt so strange. Going to MCO, but not Disney?!

Cool!

It was!

Interesting.

He really was impressed by it.

Aw. Nice of him.

It was.

So tasty and indulgent!

Worth it?

As a Disney souvenir for wife at home, sure. In general, probably not.

oooh... too bad. I like that one.

It is cute, but she has SO MANY shirts!

Yes!!

Cool! It's been years since I've been.

Seems that it's really changed and improved.

mmmmm... gelato....

Mmmmmmm.....

?? What the heck?

It was rather strange.

We have a theatre here that serves food too. But all orders have to be in before about 5 minutes before showtime and there's no service during the show.

Makes more sense for being able to focus on the movie.

Not MOA, I see. Thought it was at first.

Nope, Maplewood Mall this time.

Cute.

It was - I had no idea they did things like that in malls.

I've been there lots... and never have a great experience.
But when kids are little, the place is a magnet.

It is a fun experience for everyone.

Been on that one lots too.
It's a fun ride.

It is - feels faster than Splash Mountain to me. I enjoy it.

It always is.

Not the other times we've ridden. Guess we hit good times before.

What? Is that new?

Yes, I believe so, since they moved and remodeled.

Nevermind. I see that it is. I wonder why they moved? Too far stuck in the corner?

No idea.

Nope!

Shocker.

 

[Dugette]

You should definitely wait and do a 7 day cruise. I can't do anything shorter now. You may be tempted to save money and do someone besides DCL, but you will be a little disappointed. We really like RCCL and did one when DS was 4. It was one of the best family vacations we have ever done, even though DS got sick. Last cruise we did DCL. We couldn't do anything else now, if DS is coming with us. DCL just does so much more for kids. RCCL was nice but just not the same. If it were an adult only cruise, we would definitely consider RCCL again, especially since we could drive to Galveston instead of having to fly. We are currently waiting for the summer 2017 itineraries to be released to book a 7 day Western Caribbean out of Port Canaveral. I would love to do the Star Wars cruises, but both this year and next year, they occur the week before and the week after DS has Spring Break

Yes, we would much prefer a 7 night to a 4 night. Just that darn twice-the-price things holds us back. Another DIS family on our cruise actually did a 4-night and 3-night back-to-back, since it was cheaper than doing a 7 night.

Interestingly, the other cruise Dug and I took together was a 7-night Royal Caribbean out of Galveston. I think that was in about 2008? We LOVED it. Obviously, that was in the pre-Izzy days, but we had a fantastic time and not a single complaint. We'd do Royal Caribbean again in a heartbeat. BUT, as you said, bringing a kid puts DCL at a distinct advantage. Izzy would LOVE to spend time in the kids club and there are so many fun things for families to do together. We'd love to be return visitors on DCL. And, heck, we have that 10% on-board booking discount to use too.

We took DS to Europe when he was 3. I wouldn't do it again like we did. However, I think your plans would be much easier. We stayed in London for about a week, took the Chunnel to Paris, rented an RV and drove it to Le Mans, camped out in the infield during the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, drove it back to Paris, and then stayed in Paris for about a week. It was exhausting, and we had a Tube strike in London on the day that we had to get to the train station to head to Paris It sounds like you wouldn't be traveling to as many places. Plus, having family would be a huge help. Also, the language barriers won't be as frustrating with your in-laws. My 4 years of High School French was not enough. Paris seems to have no elevators or escalators. Carrying all of our luggage, DS, and his stroller through the main Paris train station was terrible. DS is a picky eater and pretty much lived off bread and eggs the whole trip. The things we did right were to stay in places with 2 rooms (1 bedroom & 1 living room) and have a fridge and microwave/cooker. DS adjusted to the time change better than we did, but we stuck to his sleep/nap schedule. On the plane, we had audio books for him and headphones for the audio books and inflight entertainment. We brought coloring stuff, but he didn't use it on the plane. We also bought a new stuffed animal at Build-a-Bear just for the trip. He loved the Eiffel Tower. There was a cool naval museum near the Eiffel Tower across the bridge. It was near a really cool carrousel. We also brought an audio guide of the Louvre (it was from Rick Steves). He sat in his stroller listening to the guide and then music, which allowed us to actually see a decent amount of the Louvre.

Thanks for all your thoughts on this! Very helpful! Yes, I think we'd have a different type of trip. Plus, Dug speaks pretty decent French too (however, I took 4 years of German, so I'm not so well off in that respect). At this point, we are thinking we'd do about 10 days, most in/near Paris, a few in DLP, and maybe venturing out a bit (not sure on the details - Dug is much more familiar than I am). And a lot depends on family, if that were to happen. We do travel fairly well with them, based on our recent Hawaii trip, so that is good. But I don't know if it will happen - his dad has a lot of health issues and just got out of the hospital and is very weak, etc. He wants to travel, but I'm not sure how realistic that is. Hawaii actually was very iffy for him right up until he got on the plane. Glad he made that one!

We were just at Disney Springs last week. When was Dug there? I think I saw that same musician. He was near the gelato place where we also got gelato. Reminded us of our visit to Florence before DS was born. We had appetizers and drinks at Jock Lindsey's too and enjoyed it. Disney Springs had such a better atmosphere than when we visited last March. I am excited to see the progress in July.

Looks like he was there March 6th, according to the date stamp on the pictures. Glad you enjoyed Disney Springs - Dug thought the atmosphere was a lot better too.

Wow! Lots and lots of options to choose from! So many I lost count

I know, so crazy!

I like the idea of the Disney Cruise and staying at a Disney resort for a few nights, with no parks! AKL is a lot of fun in itself, and the pool is really nice!

I do really like this idea, at least in theory. I think, in practice, it will be REALLY hard to be so close to the parks (with new things open) and NOT go in. The party helps, since we get MK. But not the other 3 parks.

But my favorite option I think is going to France! That is so cute Izzy gets excited every time she sees the Eiffel Tower! And you could do DLP! While it's something different then a regular Disney trip, you STILL get to go to a Disney Park! That trip is on my bucket list as well! If it works out that you can take that trip, I say go for it! That sounds like the experience of a lifetime!

I do really, really like the idea of this trip. Especially if Dug's family can come. But even if not, I think it would be great.

Love all the pictures your DH took of Disney Springs. They really did do a great job with it. I am excited to see it this summer.

I am excited to see it too (whenever I get back there). Looks so much nicer and very fun!

Also, Izzy has gotten so big!!! She looks so much more mature then the pictures from the TRs you have going on right now!

I know, it's so funny doing these TRs that are so "old" and seeing how much she's changed. Especially the first Hawaii one, but this one is already almost a year old too.

Good luck with all the possible trip plans. I look forward to hearing what you and your family decide to do!

Thank you, I'm interested to see how this all shakes out myself.

 

[Dugette]

So many fun options for you to consider! That would be amazing if you guys get the Italy deal to work out - fingers crossed for Dug!

Fingers still crossed, but we think it's unlikely at this point. He'd have to be selected as a speaker and hasn't heard anything yet - even though they've started announcing some of the selections. But they haven't put all the names out yet, so still waiting.

7 day cruises are amazing. If you book right when a new itinerary is released and use your OBB discount, it could be in your budget. As I type that, I realize that would be for the cruise only - not figuring in airfare, transport to the port, excursions, etc.

Yep, that's the problem. I mean, we often manage free airfare (points/miles), but there are all those little extras we can't avoid.

I do like the 4 day cruise plus Disney weekends at the resort/Disney Springs, but like you said, it would be really hard to not buy park tickets! And a 4 day cruise is so short.

Agreed on both points! I think we'll be wishing for more time on the ship and going a bit crazy at not being able to go into the non-party parks. But, if we can get over that, it has potential to be really fun and even - gasp! - somewhat relaxing.

We're kind of in the same boat (ha!) where after our May cruise we don't really have any vacation plans. We'll do a couple weekend trips to Storyland this year, and I'm planning Aulani for 2018, but not sure what next year looks like yet. And I know I'll book another cruise onboard, but not sure when we'll sail.

Such a strange feeling to not know what's next. I feel like we almost always have had some idea of our next destination and this time we just know we'll go somewhere at some time. Nice to hear about your plans too - I like knowing what others have coming up.

Do you know how tall kids have to be to go on the log ride at MoA? We'll be near there this weekend and I'm wondering if Rory might be tall enough to ride.

Did you end up going?

Izzy is looking like such a little girl now (rather than baby/toddler). It's so amazing to watch these kids grow up, isn't it?

It really is amazing. Sometimes I go back to my old TRs (like her first trip) and I'm just amazed at how little she was. I mean, it wasn't really all that long ago.

Oh, and your Boardwalk Bakery experience - that is insane! At least you got some free stuff, but I can't believe how long you had to wait. We've always gotten in and out of there really quickly, but I think we just got pre-made stuff.

If I ever venture in again, I think I'll avoid their day's "special" and just get something ready-made.

Loved the pictures of Disney Springs. So glad to hear that Dug was impressed with it. I'm hoping we can fit in a quick trip there during our May vacation, but we'll see.

I hope you can get over there. He said it had a really nice vibe to it.

Can't speak to all your vacation ideas but definitely think you should do something you really want and not just something for the sake of doing it (i.e., the shorter cruise ... how does that work if you want to re-book to a longer cruise, do you just make up the difference or would you lose the 10% savings?)

We'd keep the 10% off and might not even owe any more on the deposit, since the longer cruises have reduced deposits with on-board booking. Not 100% sure on the details, though. I do know that we are supposed to cruise within 2 years of our other cruise, though - so that would be by next May.

We've done Ireland and really enjoyed it. Haven't don't Portland but have done Seattle which was really cool. Also have done New Orleans which was tons of fun but a week was plenty!

Great to hear. Portland and the area around it are great. We've done Seattle too, but only for a short time (when I was pregnant w/Izzy, actually). It's great too.

I guess the cruise for your 40th is a think as that is our plan as of now - probably take 2017 off from vacations for the most part and then do a big Disney cruise during February break of 2018 for my 40th - which will also cover Olivia's 9th (which is kinda scary)

All those birthdays are scary. I cannot believe that the big 4-0 is coming up. I don't feel any different than I did at 29 - in fact, I feel like that was yesterday, really. Dug's 40th is closer to yours, so maybe we could do something in between to celebrate both. I don't know.

Looks like Dug had a great time and glad he feels Disney Springs has a good feeling to it, etc. - love that they are having so much live entertainment!

He was really impressed at all the music and lively atmosphere there.

So I thought we were in a predicament between two trip options in October (Aulani and WDW) but man do you have it hard Doesn't it feel like there's not enough days in the year to do everything we want to do? Or a big enough budget either!

YES! The budget is the biggie for us. I feel like we have a fairly generous vacation budget (well, compared to people IRL, not on the DIS), but travel is our priority and there is so much we want to see and do, so it doesn't get us that far. I have a pretty good pile of vacation time right now, so that's not as big an issue, though Dug's is more limited, due to his less-than-2-years job status right now. He will get an extra week this fall, though, so that's good.

Paris is my dream one day. I've been obsessed since I was in Middle School and became even more obsessed when I found out that the opening date of the eiffel tower is my birthday Before we were even talking about Aulani (so mid 2015), we were tossing around the idea of going to Paris with DS during Summer of this year because we felt like by then, he would be a perfect International traveler and is getting, ever so slightly, more mature Sounds like Izzy is too and that she would do well by that time if you guys went! But yikes the price to get there and stay there is crazy! It would definitely take a hit on your 2016 budget and I'd think you'd get antsy to do SOMETHING this year.

Oh, cool, on the Eiffel Tower. We share our anniversary with WDW - I thought that was pretty cool when I learned it. Very true, I think we'd be antsy to do something this year. We did just have a mini-trip to WI, but it's not the same. If we can get Cabo to near-free, that might be an option, but not until winter. I think that Izzy would do pretty well with France. And we've been seeing deals on IcelandAir for $600 flights. And DLP actually seems pretty reasonably priced. And Dug's mom gave us a recommendation on a well-located, decent, and cheap hotel in Paris. So, I think it's do-able.

And you're right about the cruise. 4 nights is really not enough, 7 nights is perfect! But there is a massive price difference between the two, even with the On Board Booking discount.

Yep. I'm having a hard time getting over that price difference.

Yikes so many decisions, but i'm confident you'll figure out something, you always do!

Thanks, I'm interested to see what we end up doing. Looks like you chose Aulani, from another post I saw.

I would make him FaceTime me the entire time he was down there!

He actually did for a long time, until my phone was almost dead. I was at my dad's house at the time, so I had to borrow his charger.

But oh my does it sound good

It was quite good - I love those flavors.

Agh this is brilliant!

 

[Dugette]

France high up on your list sounds awesome. We were just chatting last night about what a great vacation we had, especially at Aria's age and how fun it was with her. I am SO glad we took that trip even pregnant, it really made some wonderful memories for us as a last hurrah as a family of 3. Now of course we are excited to travel with maya down the road, but France was really terrific.

This is great to hear! I have to admit that I'm on the edge of my seat, waiting for your France TR! I am pretty clueless on France, but Dug has a pretty good knowledge base, so I haven't really had to learn too much yet - but I want to!

December really does sound wonderful. I wish we could make it work but our trip budget has decreased and we are saving for a trip next summer (2017) to Holland and Italy (maya's first Europe trip, eek) for our 10-year anniversary, plus a spring trip to Seattle (sometime in April during the tulip festival). I'm thinking about fitting in a weekend trip maybe early December for Maya's 1st birthday but otherwise our Disney plans end with the next trip in a couple weeks.

Yikes, so weird without a Disney trip in the works. I can't help but wonder how long it will take you to book a spontaneous extra visit. Sounds like a wonderful 10th anniversary trip! What part of Italy? Seattle sounds great too - you grew up around there, right? Maybe we'll see you in December, depending on how all these options work out.

we went through a phase of that too!

Good to know she's not the only one.

I don't know what was up with them that night.

Well at least there was that!

Yes, that helped a bit.

Not an early night after all.

Neat!

It was!

Its only the right thing to do after all. Little Miss still hasn't eaten hers from a few weeks ago. she keeps opting for the easter candy instead. DH and I are very near the point of caving and eating it ourselves.

I'm surprised you haven't yet.

We tried one of those theaters near us. We felt the same way.

I've never been to one, but good to know.

I thought that was pretty cool.

Yay for Disney teaching patience and turn-taking.

I'm all caught up but I've really enjoyed your TR so far. My son will be around the same age Izzy was when we take our first mini trip to Disney in January so it's been helpful to see what to sort of expect.

Thank you! I hope you have a wonderful time in January and if you have any questions, feel free to ask.

 

[A State Of Autumn]

Those are some great options! We're going to Europe in July and I've purchased our DL Paris tickets! I can't wait! We also visited WDW in May and it was going to be our only trip but I loved it SO MUCH and I got a nasty cold at the time so I feel like I have unfinished business. I'm going back for the Disney Princess Half...it's motivation to get me fit and running and a great excuse to get my unfinished business out of the way.

 

[pkondz]

Hmmm, Disney College Program...

No, since we were just in and out for the restrooms. I could see how it would being seated in there, though.

Ah. I suppose that's one way of seeing it!

I wouldn't expect her to remember it forever. But I would expect her to enjoy it, us to enjoy it, and her to remember it for a while. We were just talking today that she remembers things from 2 years ago and has been mentioning them to us - and she was only 1 then! But Dug pointed out that he remembers things from 2 years ago, so why shouldn't she? It just won't be a strong memory in 20 years. Makes sense to me. I don't remember much about our Disneyland trip 10 years ago, so I get it.

Oh, don't get me wrong. I'm sure she'll enjoy it. It's why we don't keep them locked up until they're older but instead take them on outings, etc.

The whole thing felt so strange. Going to MCO, but not Disney?!

Almost sacrilegious!

Makes more sense for being able to focus on the movie.

I want to see the movie... not some server's head.

It is - feels faster than Splash Mountain to me. I enjoy it.

It does! I don't know if it is... but it definitely feels faster.

Not the other times we've ridden. Guess we hit good times before.

Huh. I've always seen lines for it.
But then again, I'm sure you're there more often than us.