Is Mickey a Captain or a Jedi? Both! - May '15 Land & Sea ~ Updated 6/14: Trip Report Started!

[schmass]

I fell behind, but think I'm all caught up now!

I’ve read that parents who have kids going to the kids’ club can get the bracelets and do registration at the terminal, but Izzy will be in the nursery, since she’s not 3 yet – is there anything we’ll need to do? I’m unclear if they do the bracelet thing too.

They do use bracelets in the nursery, but we didn't need to do anything in the terminal. We were able to take care of it when we checked Rory into the nursery.

For lunch, I think there are a couple of options? Any recommendations? I want to say I’ve read you can do the buffet or a sit-down that is lesser known?

We've always done Cabanas and been happy with it. I had read reports that recommended that option because it was quicker, and decided to go that route!

I think I read that it is good to watch from Deck 12 instead of 11 because you can get up to the rail and see over everyone? I’d like Izzy to be able to see her beloved character friends.

We like Deck 12 so we can get a good view from above without worrying about people in front of us.

This is the Nassau day for our cruise and we plan to stay on the ship. Neither of us has ever been to Nassau, but neither of us particularly cares to go there either. We are looking forward to more time to just enjoy the Dream, hopefully with lower crowds. So, our schedule today is pretty open and it’s mostly just a bunch of ideas of things we could do.

Good call!

First thought I had is that maybe we should take our time and try a sit-down breakfast, since we’re not rushing to leave the ship? It looks like our options would be Enchanted Garden or Royal Palace? Any thoughts on this?

I think this would be a good idea. I'd go to Enchanted Garden, but I just love the decor in that restaurant.

Oh, I have also considered booking another cruise onboard, but am undecided. I understand that it’s a good deal and you can change it around and maintain your deal for the next (I think) 2 years. We have no plans for another cruise right now. But I like deals. But we really shouldn’t be spending even more money right now. So, I don’t know on this one.

Do it! I don't mean to be a bad influence, but it is a really good deal...

I also see something after that called “Toddler Time”, but I have no clue what it is. Maybe appropriate, though?

We did Toddler Time - ours was up on Deck 13 in one of the sports areas. They had a bunch of balls and other toys for toddlers out. Rory had a lot of fun!

This is our Castaway Cay day! Neither of us is a huge beach person, but I understand this is a can’t-miss slice of paradise, so we plan to enjoy it while we can.

We are not really beach people either, but we LOVE Castaway Cay. Enjoy!

We couldn’t get a Palo Brunch in advance, so I grabbed a dinner instead. My initial plan was just to have that as a back-up in case we couldn’t get a brunch at Palo once we boarded. But, after thinking about it since then, I am leaning towards keeping this dinner either way. I mean, chocolate soufflé, right?

I hope you get the brunch and can do both! Yum! Except I'm the only person in the world who doesn't like the chocolate souffle (or any souffle!).

After the show, I think we’ll probably put Izzy to bed, but I am a bit conflicted. There is a “See Ya Real Soon” farewell thing with the characters this night, but it’s at 10:15pm.

There should be an early farewell show, too. Probably before the early dinner.

1.) I have read that having a carafe of coffee delivered the night before is great for having hot coffee ready in the morning. I am not a coffee drinker, but Dug might like that.

I have read this, too. Just be warned that the coffee is terrible! For good coffee, I recommend the specialty coffee on board, and getting a punch card.

 

[hokieinpa]

Neither of us is a huge beach person, but I understand this is a can’t-miss slice of paradise, so we plan to enjoy it while we can.

Castaway Cay looks amazing - I think you'll all have a great time!

Then eat lunch at the Cookie’s BBQ place on the island

This place looks GOOD in the other TRs I've read!!

That should allow us to head back out and take the tram to the adult beach, Serenity Bay, to relax there for a bit.

Fun afternoon - sounds like you and Dug will get quite a few chances for some alone time on the cruise! I think it's great that they have the nursery - Izzy will have a great time there I'm sure!

SOOOOO happy we’ll be able to ride Pirates after all!

Saw this and thought of you and all the other May DIS-ers I'm keeping up with!!

In fact, just to add another picture, here’s what happened at Easter when we forced her to try on a dress MIL got her:

In fact, just to add another picture, here’s what happened at Easter when we forced her to try on a dress MIL got her:



She put up quite the fight. And she did win and wore her Tinkerbell shirt to church on Easter.

A random thing I’ll just throw in now: I’ve read that you can drop an item off with guest services to have all the characters sign it. I feel like I should take advantage of that, but don’t know what to do. Any ideas

Photo mat? Those seem like a really popular option and would be great with a family cruise photo inside! Or a pillowcase for Izzy?

I’m looking forward to seeing the shows, so hoping that we’ll have a cooperative toddler that late at night (well, like 8:30pm).

Fingers crossed for a happy toddler so you can enjoy the shows!!

I also read a report where they got a cheese plate delivered every night. Sounds like a great idea for a snack and will go well with wine. Must do!

We took full advantage of room service on our cruise. Breakfast (or um, pre-breakfast since we also ate in the dining room), snacks, late night dessert!


I'm loving all of your plans. It's making me consider a land/sea trip in the next few years!

 

[Dugette]

I am thinking not, but you may get lucky. If not I'm sure you can put it in a corner out of the way.

Okay, I'm sure we can find somewhere to stow it. It seems like the class of cabin we have is pretty generously sized.

I usually pack 2 undies per day for Aria. Even now with water features and such it's nice to have a back up, though lately I've really only needed 1 and have clean ones left over (which isn't a bad thing!).

Thanks, that helps. I hadn't even thought about her getting soaked in the water features in the parks. I think she has like 24 total pairs? That's two a day for the trip, approximately. I feel like I should pick up another pack. Or plan to do laundry (don't really want to).

I will say that it was really nice having table mates with a 3 year old little girl - I feel like Aria would have had more fun on the cruise having a friend there to go to the kids club with and all that, so it was nice when she saw the other little girl out and it was like she "knew" someone (something to think about for a future cruise maybe, Aria and Izzy would have a ball!).

That would be really fun to cruise together sometime! I'm sure the girls would have a great time playing together. (Well, we'd have fun too, of course).

The gelato shop is what gets me! hahaha! I saw that. We didn't to an onboard booking (hoping to get a military rate for cheaper), but not opposed to cruising again maybe later in the year 2016...

They are after us! Sweetening the pot with gelato and all. I will keep that late 2016 time frame in mind while succumbing to the magnetic pull of the Future Cruise Booking desk.

LOL I don't think I've seen Izzy in many dresses. I now know why!

Yep, there you go! She likes her pants. She keeps telling me that she likes the Ariel dress and will wear it to breakfast in the castle, though. So, hopefully that is the case.

If you can fit it in, definitely go for it - it was a highlight of our cruise (though we didn't do dinner)

Really hoping to do it - seems like one of the best-reviewed things about the cruise!

We brought a photo mat and picked it up the last night. So glad we did it!

I think I'll end up doing something like that. Or maybe picking up something beforehand at Downtown Disney that they can sign.

I laughed at your "if we're up" comment! We did the wake up with Disney junior - it was fun, but by then we had already been up 2 hours so it seemed a bit silly to see some kids in PJ's.

I believe it! None of us are really morning people. Though I have a lot more trouble sleeping in now (when there's an opportunity) than I used to.

We saw a juggler-comedy act that was fun for the family on our cruise, SO much fun!

Sounds fun! By the way, Izzy "juggles". I can actually juggle reasonably okay and made the mistake of showing her. Well, she juggles by tossing the balls over her shoulder one-by-one, then doing a dance.

Cheese AND fruit plate!! We only did it once, wish we had ordered them daily!

I've got to remember to order these. Perfect with the wine and just a good snack in general.

We're pretty happy about the push back of the renovations. Makes things so much easier for us. We don't have to have that push to ride it on Mother's day evening. Thanks again for the heads up about it!

You're welcome. So glad they delayed it! We would have missed it entirely, since it was scheduled to go down 3 days before we got there. Glad it frees up your Mother's Day evening!

Yay for Mickey Mail! ALways fun!

Love it!

Time to spread the Pixie Dust

Exactly. I'm trying. Surprisingly, no one seems to much care about these ADRs. I guess I don't feel so bad for hogging them. I've posted several times and no takers for the remaining 4 H&V dinners. Might end up dumping them back into the system.

Yuck! So glad I live in the south. Snow in almost May is just such a foreign and strange concept to me! Stay warm!

Thanks! Luckily, it didn't stick around, since the ground is warm enough to melt it instantly. But still not fun to look out the window and see that!

I have such a night owl! at 8:30 Little Miss is still going strong most days!

Wow! When does she wake up? Izzy seems to do well if we keep her up late on occasion, but she generally goes to bed by 8pm at home and falls asleep fairly quickly most nights.

That's great!!!

Not that they won't change the schedule again... but at least it looks good!

And if they do change it, I doubt they'd move it up. Hope not, at least.

Ok, it is official. DCL is run by pirates. They do their best to pillage and plunder each and every person on board.

I believe you are correct. That explains Pirate Night.

Yeah, looks about right. Good luck.

She was SO mad about that dress. I mean, even MIL was convinced not to force her to keep it on.

That's great! I'm glad that you managed to get one for a more acceptable time and were able to help spread a little bit of pixie dust. But no Beaches and Cream????

I know, my heart broke a little when I had to let that conflicting ADR go. And it's GONE. Maybe we can get a walk up when we're staying at BCV?

Sorry, I'm no good at these things. I'd think a picture or a poster or something that could be framed and hung in Izzy's room or something like that would be nice though.

I agree. If we can find enough wall space in her room between all the other Disney things.

I'm sure that would be a fun show for Izzy if you can get yourselves moving in time for it! But just having a down day to go with the flow and do what feels right is probably best for the last day on the ship.

I think we'll just see when we wake up and go from there.

Verandah, sea, napping kid, wine.

That really sounds like it will be a lot of fun!!!

I've heard nothing but good things about Mixology. And how much more fun to share it with DISers (the one organizing it has also been active on the SWW thread, so I feel like I "know" her a bit).

Well, you're going to be out late the following night. Makes sense to me since he's going to be in the room sleeping.

Well, unless he gets up to go to the MK at 3am.

 

[Dugette]

I was sooooo happy to read this!! We missed Pirates on our March trip because we just didn't have enough Magic Kingdom time to make it happen. My husband (who loves Disney but is really not into the planning it part) asked if we could FP it for this trip! And I had to tell him that it would be down for renovations. I'm so glad that they've pushed it back and we'll be able to ride! Now I just need to watch for FP to open up.

I've been secretly hoping they push it back this whole time. I know that Disney has a track record of postponing reservations, so I was hoping for some pixie dust and got it! So happy we'll be able to ride it! One of my favorites. I am also wondering when FP+ will open for it.

Those sound like great additions! I see a cruise in my future!

I know, they are doing everything they can to get us on another cruise!

We just received our Magical Express stuff too and the packet was completely different from what we received in March.

We also received our 3rd set of Magic Bands! We will have every color soon! You probably already do and if not yet then soon!

Huh, weird. I need to find the first one, as I'm pretty sure we got a packet with the luggage tags and then the one the other day was just a letter about going home. It seemed different to me too, but I was guessing that was because we had to have our DVC person book it for us. I think I might have every color (soon - when the other sets arrive). Dug and Izzy will have a variety, but not all. I still don't get why there's no purple, though.

We were finally able to book one of the breakfasts! I'm still working on a new time for our H&V dinner because everything I've seen open is when we have other plans. I do have one booked that we will use if need be but I'm going to keep trying!

Yay for getting the breakfast! Did you see they'll give out lightsabers at it? How cool! If any of my H&V work for you, let me know (they're on the cancelled ADR thread for May).

That's great that you were able to share them with someone on here! Do you know if there is a similar way to get rid of FP? I was able to snag an Anna & Elsa meet but now I am looking at changing our travel time so I don't think we'll get to use it.

I know that there was (and probably still is?) a thread on the theme park board for Anna/Elsa and Mine Train FP+ cancellations, so I'd search for that and see if it's still active.

Can you find something ship related? Like a small replica life preserver or ship? If not, I always like the idea of doing a photo mat and then adding a picture from the cruise!

Thanks for the ideas!

This part of your trip just sounds amazing! It will be so much fun and relaxing on the verandah sounds amazing!

I can't wait!

It seems like it will fly by but every day looks like it will be packed full of fun times!

I feel like it's going to go by in the blink of an eye, but hopefully we'll have lots of fantastic memories.

I am glad you will get to ride Pirates, I wonder why they pushed it back ? I hope you get your Palo brunch. That would be a good way to start the day. The cruise is going to fly by but it sounds like you have a good plan and will take advantage of the things it has to offer. Room service is awesome on cruises, you should definitely take advantage of that .

I'm not sure why they pushed back the refurb - maybe because of all the SWW people coming? Maybe one of the celebrity guests wants to ride Pirates. I'm really hoping for that Palo brunch - it sounds wonderful! I'm looking forward to trying out the room service too.

Sounds like a nice relaxing day at sea and I would think having some flexibility will be good as, despite all the amazing planning you are doing, there are probably things on the ship you aren't aware of and might want to check out/do again

Yeah, I'll be studying that Navigator every day and I'm sure we'll find new things of interest.

I would be all over room service - and having some cheese and or chocolate or something to go with the wine while you are out on the veranda ... I mean, not terrible, right?

I think you might be able to have Mickey bars delivered too.

I really want to see Tomorrowland so I would definitely be there for the midnight showing - but yeah, would probably be tired the next day

Dug is really debating - he wants to see it, but he doesn't want to ruin the next day with exhaustion. Guess we'll see what he decides.

And my goodness you are a mean mommy making Izzy wait for nearly a full day to see characters

I know, right? Poor kid. Deprived of Minnie for several hours.

 

[Dugette]

I fell behind, but think I'm all caught up now!

Yay, glad to have a veteran Disney cruiser on board!

They do use bracelets in the nursery, but we didn't need to do anything in the terminal. We were able to take care of it when we checked Rory into the nursery.

Okay, great, one less thing to worry about! Thanks!

We've always done Cabanas and been happy with it. I had read reports that recommended that option because it was quicker, and decided to go that route!

Makes sense. We don't want to dawdle around after going through the effort of getting an early PAT to enjoy the not-yet-full ship.

We like Deck 12 so we can get a good view from above without worrying about people in front of us.

That's what I'm thinking would be nice.

Good call!

I'm looking forward to this day and getting to know the Dream.

I think this would be a good idea. I'd go to Enchanted Garden, but I just love the decor in that restaurant.

Thanks for the recommendation! It does look like a pretty place to eat.

Do it! I don't mean to be a bad influence, but it is a really good deal...

Did those Disney pirates put you up to this? It is a good deal - and I like deals.

We are not really beach people either, but we LOVE Castaway Cay. Enjoy!

That's great to hear! I think we'll enjoy our time there!

I hope you get the brunch and can do both! Yum! Except I'm the only person in the world who doesn't like the chocolate souffle (or any souffle!).

I have not had a lot of soufflé in my life, but this one is so highly recommended that I have to at least try it.

There should be an early farewell show, too. Probably before the early dinner.

Really?! Oh, that would be wonderful! I didn't see anything in the Navigator I looked at. I hope that they have one, I'd feel a lot better about putting Izzy to bed later.

I have read this, too. Just be warned that the coffee is terrible! For good coffee, I recommend the specialty coffee on board, and getting a punch card.

Oh, really? I thought what I read said it was decent (not great). But I'm not a coffee drinker at all, so what do I know. I'll have to let Dug know and he can decide what he wants to do. I've heard the punch card and specialty coffee is a good option.

Castaway Cay looks amazing - I think you'll all have a great time!

It sounds like a nice day in paradise.

This place looks GOOD in the other TRs I've read!!

I agree! And Dug is a big BBQ fan. And I think they have hot dogs, so Izzy will be happy too. (Woohoo, I found a hot dog smilie!)

Fun afternoon - sounds like you and Dug will get quite a few chances for some alone time on the cruise! I think it's great that they have the nursery - Izzy will have a great time there I'm sure!

I'm glad that we'll have the nursery available in the middle of our trip. Will be nice to have a little break from parenting on such a long vacation.

Saw this and thought of you and all the other May DIS-ers I'm keeping up with!!

So excited!

That was her Easter dress picture I gave to MIL.

Photo mat? Those seem like a really popular option and would be great with a family cruise photo inside! Or a pillowcase for Izzy?

I always wonder with the pillowcases - does the kid actually use it to sleep or just as decoration?

Fingers crossed for a happy toddler so you can enjoy the shows!!

I'm hoping she enjoys them and can behave. I think they'll interest her, from what I know of them.

We took full advantage of room service on our cruise. Breakfast (or um, pre-breakfast since we also ate in the dining room), snacks, late night dessert!

Haha, pre-breakfast!

I'm loving all of your plans. It's making me consider a land/sea trip in the next few years!

Seeing some TRs in the past with land/sea always had it in the back of my mind, so we finally pulled the trigger. Really looking forward to it!

 

[Dugette]

One Month from Today – Friday, May 22nd

We have to get off the Disney Dream this morning! Boo! Thankfully, we’ll take comfort in the arms of WDW for a few more days before heading home.

By the way, the final shipment of Izzy’s new shirts came in today. She was pleased. However, she kept insisting she had, “One more shirt!!”

Just to spruce the place up with a picture, I followed this home from work today:



I love that there’s even a Disney Baby!

Okay, so back to a month from now…

Since there’s no Navigator for the last day, I’m a bit foggy on the exact times. However, I know that we basically have to eat breakfast and get off the ship. Still undecided on our breakfast venue. I guess I have a month to figure that out, huh?

Once we get off the ship, I’ll have to take the shuttle to Enterprise and get our rental car. I wonder – could I get off the ship a bit earlier than Dug and Izzy, then come pick them up (vs. them waiting around in the terminal for me or dragging them along with all our luggage)? Once we’re all loaded up, we’ll make the trek back to WDW. We might stop on the way to replenish our grocery supply, if needed.

We’ll stop back at Boardwalk Villas (unless our Beach Club waitlist comes through, but I doubt it) and drop off our luggage. We could return the rental car then, but I think we might just hang onto it until the next morning. Our destination this day is the Magic Kingdom. And this is the 24 hour day, so it is likely to be a bit crazy. (Not sure if we’ll take the rental car or the bus over – probably bus, though).

I didn’t want to rush us, so the first thing we have scheduled is a lunch ADR at 11:55am. New to us place: Liberty Tree Tavern. I actually just threw this in once I knew it was the 24 hour day, as I figured a sit-down lunch might be nice to get away from the crowds. Not sure if we’ll have a lot of time in the park before lunch, though.

After lunch (and Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake ), we’ll get Izzy down for a stroller nap and we have some Fast Pass + reservations to use. Here’s the line-up:

1:25-2:25pm: Space Mountain (Dug’s band and Rider Swap)

1:35-2:35pm: Big Thunder Mountain (my band and Rider Swap)

2:35-3:35pm: Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (Dug’s band and Rider Swap - FYI, we do have this again in a few days, just in case they won't allow the RS with only one FP+)

Yay for lots of mountains! I decided to leave out Splash Mountain, as we’ll hopefully each ride that on a late night, when there’s more time and we can get wet right before heading out.

Once Izzy is up, we have a Peter Pan FP+ (for all of us) from 3:50-4:50pm. I would really LOVE to change this to the Festival of Fantasy parade, but I haven’t been able to get it. Also, there are actually TWO parades this day, due to the 24-hour event, so there is one at Noon and one at 3pm. Because of lunch, we’ll have to aim for the 3pm. I’d like Dug to see this parade and I know that Izzy and I would enjoy seeing it again (saw in August). But without FP+, I have no idea if we’ll be able to see it – 24-hour event crowds might make that ridiculous. We do have FP+ for FoF on another day, but we’re hoping to be out of the park earlier that day…so, we’ll see.

Final FP+ is on my band from 4:50-5:50pm at the Barnstomer. Izzy’s first roller coaster! I hope she loves it! I’m kind-of excited to ride something new too. We can also grab a Rider Swap, in case she likes it enough to go again.

Between the FP+, I’m thinking we should aim to ride things that will hopefully not have terrible lines and that will be fun for Izzy:

It’s a Small World

Under the Sea

Tomorrowland Speedway (might need 4th FP+ for this)

The Peoplemover

Buzz Lightyear

Winnie the Pooh

We can try for 4th FP+ or using Izzy’s band if the lines are out of hand.

We’ll need to leave probably around 6pm for dinner. We are heading over to the Swalphin for the character buffet at Garden Grove. Our ADR is at 6:45pm. This is brand new to us, but comes highly recommended by dtr_angel and we’re looking forward to trying it.

After dinner, we’ll stroll back over to the Boardwalk and get Izzy down to bed. We might both take a nap too. Gotta rest up for a potentially long night.

So, here’s an interesting change in hours. Originally, Epcot was open until 9pm, then had Extra Magic Hours from 9-11pm. However, it has now been pushed back two hours – open until 11pm and EMH to 1am! I’m sure this is to divert some of the 24-hour crowds. My plan was to go to Epcot EMH, then to late-night at the MK, as it’s my solo night. I’ll still do that, but not sure what time I’ll head over to Epcot and how late I’ll stay there. My biggest goal is to ride Test Track. I’m not sure what else I’ll do, but being at Epcot after midnight sounds kind-of awesome. Maybe I will just stare at the fountain and listen to the background music.

When I feel inclined, I’ll park-hop over to the MK. I really have no agenda for this MK time. With the 24-hour event, I don’t feel comfortable planning anything concrete, as I have no idea what kind of lines I’ll be dealing with. I would like to see the 1am parade, though – so, I’ll have to leave Epcot in time for that. I don’t have to have a great view, so I’ll see what I see. And it wouldn’t be the end of the world if I missed it, but a 1am parade is pretty fun! Also, DIS-er Tracy161 will be solo in the MK, so we'll try to meet up sometime this late night.

Not sure how long I’ll stay in MK. Depends how awake I am and what I’m doing. Also depends if Dug wants to take the second shift. If so, I’ll make my way back to Boardwalk about 3am or whenever. I’m assuming they’ll be running buses (and monorails?) all night? Then Dug can drive the rental car to the TTC, enjoy the MK in the wee hours of the morning, then drive back to BWV (or bus).

If he is thinking of heading over to DHS to get a celebrity autograph FP+ for Warwick Davis (he’s undecided on this), then he will have a couple options. Either leave the car for me to return and walk over (maybe with Izzy in the stroller – will be an early morning, but maybe she can sleep more?) or drive with me and Izzy to DHS, they get out, then I return the rental car and bus back. (Hmmm, I should have mentioned on the day we get the car – it’s through Enterprise, so I think they may be able to pick me up. Not sure they do the reverse to return it, though).

No matter what we do, I’ll have to get the car returned by 8am. So, no sleeping in after the late night (see why there’s a nap in the evening?) And then, on top of that, this is our big Deluxe Premium Feel the Force Package Day for SWW in DHS. But I’ll cover that insanity tomorrow.

 

[hokieinpa]

By the way, the final shipment of Izzy’s new shirts came in today. She was pleased. However, she kept insisting she had, “One more shirt!!”

There is no end to the need for more Disney shirts! The girl knows the deal!

New to us place: Liberty Tree Tavern. I actually just threw this in once I knew it was the 24 hour day, as I figured a sit-down lunch might be nice to get away from the crowds. Not sure if we’ll have a lot of time in the park before lunch, though.

Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake will be necessary to fuel you through 24-hours at MK!

We do have FP+ for FoF on another day, but we’re hoping to be out of the park earlier that day…so, we’ll see.

So much juggling to do! I'm interested to read reviews of FP+ for the parade!

Final FP+ is on my band from 4:50-5:50pm at the Barnstomer. Izzy’s first roller coaster!

Yay! It was Colin's first roller coaster as well and he loved it. They loved seeing the Goofy cut out on the billboard!

I’m not sure what else I’ll do, but being at Epcot after midnight sounds kind-of awesome. Maybe I will just stare at the fountain and listen to the background music.

That sounds absolutely perfect!! Hmm...maybe a margarita in your hand. Now, that sounds perfect!

Also, DIS-er Tracy161 will be solo in the MK, so we'll try to meet up sometime this late night.

That would be great!

And then, on top of that, this is our big Deluxe Premium Feel the Force Package Day for SWW in DHS.

Excited to hear more about this!

 

[Dugette]

I was sooooo happy to read this!! We missed Pirates on our March trip because we just didn't have enough Magic Kingdom time to make it happen. My husband (who loves Disney but is really not into the planning it part) asked if we could FP it for this trip! And I had to tell him that it would be down for renovations. I'm so glad that they've pushed it back and we'll be able to ride! Now I just need to watch for FP to open up.



Those sound like great additions! I see a cruise in my future!



We just received our Magical Express stuff too and the packet was completely different from what we received in March.

We also received our 3rd set of Magic Bands! We will have every color soon! You probably already do and if not yet then soon!



We were finally able to book one of the breakfasts! I'm still working on a new time for our H&V dinner because everything I've seen open is when we have other plans. I do have one booked that we will use if need be but I'm going to keep trying!

That's great that you were able to share them with someone on here! Do you know if there is a similar way to get rid of FP? I was able to snag an Anna & Elsa meet but now I am looking at changing our travel time so I don't think we'll get to use it.



Can you find something ship related? Like a small replica life preserver or ship? If not, I always like the idea of doing a photo mat and then adding a picture from the cruise!



This part of your trip just sounds amazing! It will be so much fun and relaxing on the verandah sounds amazing!



It seems like it will fly by but every day looks like it will be packed full of fun times!

FYI, Pirates is now showing up as a FP+ option for me!

 

[schmass]

We're doing lunch at Liberty Tree Tavern this trip, too! I really, really want to try the Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake, but am not sure how to do that with Rory watching. Maybe they have Rice Dream available for him.

I'm jealous of all your mountain FP+s! No mountains for me this time...

Late night Epcot sounds pretty awesome. I am such an early to bed kind of person that the walk back to the Boardwalk would be way too tempting and there's no way I'd be hopping over to the MK. You seem more adventurous than me, though! I bet you'll have so much fun!

 

[afwdwfan]

By the way, the final shipment of Izzy’s new shirts came in today. She was pleased. However, she kept insisting she had, “One more shirt!!”

I'm sure there will be at least "one more shirt."

And this is the 24 hour day, so it is likely to be a bit crazy. (Not sure if we’ll take the rental car or the bus over – probably bus, though

Oh, I'd take the bus. But I'm pretty sure it will be chaos no matter what you choose to do.

New to us place: Liberty Tree Tavern.

I love eating there! We've never done lunch though, just dinner.

I would really LOVE to change this to the Festival of Fantasy parade, but I haven’t been able to get it.

Wow. I guess I wouldn't think this would be one that would run out already. Even if you don't get FP+, I'd think you'd be able to get a decent view somewhere around Frontierland/Liberty Square without camping too terribly early.

Originally, Epcot was open until 9pm, then had Extra Magic Hours from 9-11pm. However, it has now been pushed back two hours – open until 11pm and EMH to 1am! I’m sure this is to divert some of the 24-hour crowds. My plan was to go to Epcot EMH, then to late-night at the MK, as it’s my solo night.

The perfect night!!!!!!

No matter what we do, I’ll have to get the car returned by 8am. So, no sleeping in after the late night (see why there’s a nap in the evening?) And then, on top of that, this is our big Deluxe Premium Feel the Force Package Day for SWW in DHS. But I’ll cover that insanity tomorrow.

Wow. What a crazy couple of days! I'm sure you'll power through on all the pixie dust though. You can always sleep when you get back home!

 

[Gracefulskinny]

Wow! When does she wake up?

Anywhere from 7:30am-11am depending on the day but usually around 9 or 10.

She was pleased. However, she kept insisting she had, “One more shirt!!”

New to us place: Liberty Tree Tavern. I actually just threw this in once I knew it was the 24 hour day, as I figured a sit-down lunch might be nice to get away from the crowds.

I considered finding a time for this in our schedule but never found a good day to make it work.

Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake

I really want to try this.... it just looks so good!

and monorails?

I don't think they run all night long.

 

[TheMaxRebo]

thinking of all your Star Wars plans and then seeing the Disney stick figure family reminds me of all the Star Wars ones you can get, but that you have to be a bit careful who you pick. Like on this car, if the husband is Darth Vader and the wife is Princess Leia are you saying you married your daughter?

bummer about have to get off the boat but knowing you are going right to WDW must make it a bit easier - though, also a bit stressful knowing you are heading into the 24-hour party. I would definitely think bus would be the way to go - trying to think if way to get to a monorail stop as buses to MK might even be super crowded (guess you would have to walk - do they have buses from boardwalk to EPCOT?)

Glad you got a lot of good FP+'s for the day, might just have to play it by ear as to how lines are

EPCOT solo at night sounds fun. Will the restaurants be open later now? Thinking just sitting at Spice Road or something with a glass of wine along the water and relaxing seems pretty nice. If you are coming into MK close to parade start time you could think about going up to the train station and watching the parade from there - might be a little easier than making your way down Main St.

And fitting int some sleep at some point would be good with the big Star Wards day coming up!

 

[afwdwfan]

thinking of all your Star Wars plans and then seeing the Disney stick figure family reminds me of all the Star Wars ones you can get, but that you have to be a bit careful who you pick. Like on this car, if the husband is Darth Vader and the wife is Princess Leia are you saying you married your daughter?

 

[StephanieE]

FYI, Pirates is now showing up as a FP+ option for me!

Yay! I'm heading over to check now! Thank you!!

 

[Leshaface]

Our flight is around 8am out of MSP. Dug’s sister has kindly agreed to provide airport shuttle services for us, once again. She is awesome. She lives close to the airport and truly enjoys helping people get to/from and allowing them to park in her driveway, in exchange for hearing about their trip right afterwards.

This must be SO nice to live close enough to an airport to get dropped off! OUr closest airport is 45 minutes away, but it very expensive to fly out of there, so it pretty much never happens.

(Why is there no bouncing Minnie? )

Because the DIS was made by a man

And it’s good for a year, in case we do make it back sooner than I expect.

Knowing you, I think you'll make the time

2.) I asked her at dinner if she was excited for our trip and her answer was, “I’m not ready yet.” We agreed to wait until May to go. Guess she wants time to pack all the clothes I just bought her…

Cute!

DS has this shirt!

We actually debated that second one. I read the couple reviews online and one pointed out that there is an “a” missing from before “trooper”.

Oh my gosh, I loved it until you pointed out the missing 'A' That's a big oversight on their part.

I like this too! Old Navy has some great Disney stuff.

Oh, one other thing to note. I am the proud owner of a number of Jedi Mickey’s Hollywood and Vine dinner ADRs that I probably will not use. Until I can get the day/time I really want, I’m hanging onto them. So, I still have a 5pm H&V + Fantasmic package this night. We really don’t want to have to go back to DHS and miss our food booth dinner, not to mention cut into Dug’s EMH substantially with Fantasmic, so we don’t want to have to use this ADR. But it’s there, should worse come to worse. Because we really want to get that meal in. Hoping I can cancel this ADR soon and make someone’s day.

I'm sure someone will be thrilled with an ADR here!

So, this is the day I actually managed to work in Animal Kingdom.

YAY!

Our next FP+ is for Kilimanjaro Safaris from 10:05-11:05am.

And while you're over here in this area, check out the Bloody Mary's

Love this!

The food sounds good too and they even have Blue Milk to drink.

That's pretty cool!

I think we may want to stop on the way to get some drinks to bring on board with us. Not 100% sure – we’re not huge drinkers (and we’re already signed up for Mixology and I plan to get some drinks of the day), but it would be nice to enjoy some wine on the verandah.

I'd do it if I were you. Alcohol can add up on the ship and you can actually take a wine glass from any of the bars and pour your own wine into it I'm not sure it is's allowed, but we did this from tips on the DIS and our server on the Wonder (and Dream actually too!) that people did it all the time.

I don’t know if we’ll use the stroller much, but I wanted to have it and it does fold small and I’m sure we can store it easily in the room.

The ship is really, really big! I remember seeing several small umbrella strollers on both of our cruises.

Reserve a brunch at Palo for our sea day. The Navigator shows that can be done from 1:00-3:30pm at Royal Palace. Do we have to wait until then or will they do it earlier – anyone know?

I remember reading about people lining up as soon as they boarded the ship, but this was years ago so not sure what the protocol is now. But definitely do it asap!

our first priorities are to eat lunch and to swim and/or try the Aquaduck (if we can catch it with short lines)

Loved the Aquaduck! It was surprisingly fast and got you wetter than I thought you would get

For lunch, I think there are a couple of options? Any recommendations? I want to say I’ve read you can do the buffet or a sit-down that is lesser known?

I remember they were practically pushing us to do the buffets on both boats. Probably cause it's easier for them But we like buffets so it wasn't a problem for us!

This is the Nassau day for our cruise and we plan to stay on the ship. Neither of us has ever been to Nassau, but neither of us particularly cares to go there either. We are looking forward to more time to just enjoy the Dream, hopefully with lower crowds. So, our schedule today is pretty open and it’s mostly just a bunch of ideas of things we could do.

Oh good! Nassau...sucks. And with a kid I would never, ever again. All the 'want your hair braided?' 'you need your hair braided!' nonsense is too much and annoying.

This is our Castaway Cay day! Neither of us is a huge beach person, but I understand this is a can’t-miss slice of paradise, so we plan to enjoy it while we can.

You may not be huge beach people now, but when you return from a day at Castaway, you totally will be! It is absolutely amazing there!

That should allow us to head back out and take the tram to the adult beach, Serenity Bay, to relax there for a bit.

Oh yeah. You'll definitely be beach people if you get a chance to come here!

Izzy back onboard for a nap in the nursery, which we have reserved for a few hours this afternoon.

Woah! So you can schedule them to sleep in the nursery?! That is awesome!!!

SOOOOO happy we’ll be able to ride Pirates after all!

Yay!!!

Secondly, as Phil posted about, the Dream is going to have a Star Wars themed kids club room starting next fall! Man, they really are pulling out all the stops to get us to re-book while on board. I mean, they’re even adding a gelato shop for me! Sounds pretty cool.

Book a dummy for sure and get a discount! You'll want to book anyway. The cruises are just way too amazing not to book another one! We still have our dummy cruise booked from when we went in Dec 2011 We just keep pushing it back

Since there’s no Navigator for the last day, I’m a bit foggy on the exact times. However, I know that we basically have to eat breakfast and get off the ship. Still undecided on our breakfast venue. I guess I have a month to figure that out, huh?

Last days are seriously the worst. Thank goodness you have park time afterwards. The servers are so rushed at breakfasts, guests are cranky as can be, and the line to get out of the ship is massive. No one is happy on the last day! Well, except you guys, you lucky people going back to the World!

I’m not sure what else I’ll do, but being at Epcot after midnight sounds kind-of awesome. Maybe I will just stare at the fountain and listen to the background music.

Uh, cause this honestly sounds like heaven and something I would totally do if I was by myself!

 

[Tracy161]

YAY!!!!!! I, too, am just ecstatic that PotC will in fact be open for our trips!!!!!!! I really was so sad when I thought up until the last couple days that it'd be down.

Ya know, with all this great new stuff, I really think that Disney is practically insisting that you re-book whilst on board!

Woohoo for getting your Magical Express mail!!!

The mixology class sounds like so much fun! And how awesome to get to meet up with some Disers!

Ugh, that's such a bummer about the "See ya real soon" thing being so late! That doesn't make sense given it's the last night AND there are so many kids on board.

Well, if a Disney cruise must end... the only acceptable way to end it is to do exactly what you're doing: go back to Disney World!

Yay for Izzy's first roller coaster ride!!! How exciting!

I'm feeling the same way about the 24 hour party - I guess it's best to just be flexible as who knows what the crowd level will end up being. Thanks for the new info on Epcot hours... good to know! And of course this goes without saying: I'd LOVE to meet up at the 24 hour event!!!

 

[Dugette]

There is no end to the need for more Disney shirts! The girl knows the deal!

She learned quickly.

Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake will be necessary to fuel you through 24-hours at MK!

I think you are right!

So much juggling to do! I'm interested to read reviews of FP+ for the parade!

I feel like this whole trip has been one giant juggling act. It's exhausting having contingency upon contingency...

Yay! It was Colin's first roller coaster as well and he loved it. They loved seeing the Goofy cut out on the billboard!

Oh, awesome! I'm excited to see that too!

That sounds absolutely perfect!! Hmm...maybe a margarita in your hand. Now, that sounds perfect!

That does sound perfect, good thinking!

That would be great!

Looking forward to it!

Excited to hear more about this!

Coming up tonight...

We're doing lunch at Liberty Tree Tavern this trip, too! I really, really want to try the Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake, but am not sure how to do that with Rory watching. Maybe they have Rice Dream available for him.

Oooh, you'll have to let me know what you think of it. I hope they have something to take Rory's mind off the OGTC (haha, I just made an acronym for a dessert )

I'm jealous of all your mountain FP+s! No mountains for me this time...

I think it would be really hard to visit a Disney park and not be able to ride some things. I know it's worth it for the reward you get in the end (a bonus Disney fan!), but still tough.

Late night Epcot sounds pretty awesome. I am such an early to bed kind of person that the walk back to the Boardwalk would be way too tempting and there's no way I'd be hopping over to the MK. You seem more adventurous than me, though! I bet you'll have so much fun!

Haha, I'm not sure that I'm more adventurous so much as I'm a night person. In fact, this makes me think how happy I am that WDW does late EMH and not crazy-early EMH. If it was 5am instead of 2am, I don't think I'd be there.

I'm sure there will be at least "one more shirt."

There very well could be. I do have $10 in Kohl's cash right now, so...

Oh, I'd take the bus. But I'm pretty sure it will be chaos no matter what you choose to do.

I'm not used to having a car as an option, so trying to keep it in mind. At least it won't be dragging Izzy on a crazy crowded bus, I guess.

I love eating there! We've never done lunch though, just dinner.

Never been there, but excited to check a new place out!

Wow. I guess I wouldn't think this would be one that would run out already. Even if you don't get FP+, I'd think you'd be able to get a decent view somewhere around Frontierland/Liberty Square without camping too terribly early.

On a normal day, I'd think so. On the 24 hour day, I'm just not sure what to think. As you'll see in the next update, though - something came up.

The perfect night!!!!!!

Yep! Wish they all could be like that!

Wow. What a crazy couple of days! I'm sure you'll power through on all the pixie dust though. You can always sleep when you get back home!

I just have to remind myself of our previous SWW visit (in 2010) - we basically slept like 4 hours/night and were crazy people. Had a great time, though.

Anywhere from 7:30am-11am depending on the day but usually around 9 or 10.

Oh, that's not bad. Makes sense. Little night owl.

She loves her shirts.

I considered finding a time for this in our schedule but never found a good day to make it work.

I never have until now. When I realized we'd be in the MK by lunchtime on a busy day (i.e. - Pecos Bill could be a madhouse), I figured it made sense to try an ADR lunch and it was available.

I really want to try this.... it just looks so good!

I know - that's the main reason I want to go there!

I don't think they run all night long.

That's what I was thinking. I just am not clear on what they do to handle transportation on the 24 hour day.

thinking of all your Star Wars plans and then seeing the Disney stick figure family reminds me of all the Star Wars ones you can get, but that you have to be a bit careful who you pick. Like on this car, if the husband is Darth Vader and the wife is Princess Leia are you saying you married your daughter?

Awesome! Maybe it is a dad with an adult daughter and some grandkids?

bummer about have to get off the boat but knowing you are going right to WDW must make it a bit easier - though, also a bit stressful knowing you are heading into the 24-hour party. I would definitely think bus would be the way to go - trying to think if way to get to a monorail stop as buses to MK might even be super crowded (guess you would have to walk - do they have buses from boardwalk to EPCOT?)

I'm not sure. I need to study this more, I think.

Glad you got a lot of good FP+'s for the day, might just have to play it by ear as to how lines are

I am going into this day with very few expectations. It will be fun to just do a few things and see what's going on and be part of the festivities. Though we are getting there just as it gets busy.

EPCOT solo at night sounds fun. Will the restaurants be open later now? Thinking just sitting at Spice Road or something with a glass of wine along the water and relaxing seems pretty nice. If you are coming into MK close to parade start time you could think about going up to the train station and watching the parade from there - might be a little easier than making your way down Main St.

Good question. I'm not sure if they stay open later. That does sound nice, though. I was thinking of the train station, actually! I've heard that's a good option.

And fitting int some sleep at some point would be good with the big Star Wards day coming up!

I love that smilie!

Yay! I'm heading over to check now! Thank you!!

You're welcome! Hope you got something. I grabbed one for our departure day, just because.

 

[Dugette]

This must be SO nice to live close enough to an airport to get dropped off! OUr closest airport is 45 minutes away, but it very expensive to fly out of there, so it pretty much never happens.

Oh, wow, that would be hard to have to make a trip just to get to the airport. We live maybe 30 minutes away and Dug's sister lives maybe 5 minutes away.

Because the DIS was made by a man

But, wait, don't men like a bouncy Minnie too?

Knowing you, I think you'll make the time

I don't know. We've got Disneyland shaping up for November (yes, I should tell you that - probably 11/13-11/18 or so - nothing decided yet), then Hawaii in January. And a year is up just a few months later. (And our money is all gone too... ) Though Dug was musing about getting an AP the other day, as he has some co-workers in the WDW area and thought he could maybe visit/work and go to the parks sometime. (One of his co-workers just went to Epcot for dinner after work the other night. How awesome is THAT?! )

I love that you can never predict what a toddler will say. Like tonight, before bed, she grabbed her picnic basket and a Swiffer duster and walked past Dug saying, "Excuse me, Daddy. I'm going to work."

Cute!

Thanks, I just love this one!

DS has this shirt!

Awesome! They're twins! If we meet up in DL and they still fit in their shirts, they should wear them on the same day!

Oh my gosh, I loved it until you pointed out the missing 'A' That's a big oversight on their part.

I know, so annoying! Otherwise, it's a really cute shirt, especially for SWW.

I like this too! Old Navy has some great Disney stuff.

Thanks! I was happy to find out this is actually a long-sleeve t-shirt and not a sweatshirt, as I'd thought. She can probably get more use out of it and bring it on the trip!

I'm sure someone will be thrilled with an ADR here!

I've passed out a few of them and they are very happy!

YAY!

I can't believe how hard it was to fit AK into an 8-day visit.

And while you're over here in this area, check out the Bloody Mary's

Thanks for the reminder!

Love this!

Couldn't be more perfect!

That's pretty cool!

I'm looking forward to that!

I'd do it if I were you. Alcohol can add up on the ship and you can actually take a wine glass from any of the bars and pour your own wine into it I'm not sure it is's allowed, but we did this from tips on the DIS and our server on the Wonder (and Dream actually too!) that people did it all the time.

Good to know! I think we'll at least want to enjoy some on the verandah with that cheese plate!

The ship is really, really big! I remember seeing several small umbrella strollers on both of our cruises.

Good to know that others were using them. I know some people debate bringing a stroller at all and what kind, but since we have WDW before and after, we're definitely bringing our good one!

I remember reading about people lining up as soon as they boarded the ship, but this was years ago so not sure what the protocol is now. But definitely do it asap!

Will do!

Loved the Aquaduck! It was surprisingly fast and got you wetter than I thought you would get

I'm a total lame-o, as I was like, "Aw, but I don't want to get really wet on a waterside!" when I read this. I apparently am just in it for the "slide".

I remember they were practically pushing us to do the buffets on both boats. Probably cause it's easier for them But we like buffets so it wasn't a problem for us!

We like them too. We're flexible, I think, depending on where they want us to go.

Oh good! Nassau...sucks. And with a kid I would never, ever again. All the 'want your hair braided?' 'you need your hair braided!' nonsense is too much and annoying.

That makes me feel more confident in our decision!

You may not be huge beach people now, but when you return from a day at Castaway, you totally will be! It is absolutely amazing there!

Can't wait!

Oh yeah. You'll definitely be beach people if you get a chance to come here!

So, you liked it there? MEK didn't care for it. I think most people enjoy it, though.

Woah! So you can schedule them to sleep in the nursery?! That is awesome!!!

Well, technically you just schedule nursery time and they have cribs, so they can do nap time. I got that idea from another TR!

Yay!!!

So glad it's going to be open!

Book a dummy for sure and get a discount! You'll want to book anyway. The cruises are just way too amazing not to book another one! We still have our dummy cruise booked from when we went in Dec 2011 We just keep pushing it back

Wow, isn't there a time limit on those? It's going to be tempting to book something...

Last days are seriously the worst. Thank goodness you have park time afterwards. The servers are so rushed at breakfasts, guests are cranky as can be, and the line to get out of the ship is massive. No one is happy on the last day! Well, except you guys, you lucky people going back to the World!

That's why we're doing it!

Uh, cause this honestly sounds like heaven and something I would totally do if I was by myself!

I can't wait!

YAY!!!!!! I, too, am just ecstatic that PotC will in fact be open for our trips!!!!!!! I really was so sad when I thought up until the last couple days that it'd be down.

Same here! It was the one thing I was really bummed about for this trip. I love it and it's such a must-do! SO glad they postponed the closure!

Ya know, with all this great new stuff, I really think that Disney is practically insisting that you re-book whilst on board!

Pretty much!

Woohoo for getting your Magical Express mail!!!

The mixology class sounds like so much fun! And how awesome to get to meet up with some Disers!

I'm really excited for it! Sounds great, I've only heard good reviews, and fun friends too!

Ugh, that's such a bummer about the "See ya real soon" thing being so late! That doesn't make sense given it's the last night AND there are so many kids on board.

I just don't get that at all. Hopefully there will be an earlier version that just isn't listed?

Well, if a Disney cruise must end... the only acceptable way to end it is to do exactly what you're doing: go back to Disney World!

Agreed!

Yay for Izzy's first roller coaster ride!!! How exciting!

I'm so excited to take her! I hope she enjoys it!

I'm feeling the same way about the 24 hour party - I guess it's best to just be flexible as who knows what the crowd level will end up being. Thanks for the new info on Epcot hours... good to know! And of course this goes without saying: I'd LOVE to meet up at the 24 hour event!!!

Sounds great! I think that would be really fun to track each other down at the MK!

 

[Dugette]

One Month from Today – Saturday, May 23rd

I forgot to mention in yesterday’s update where I said we’d try to ride the TTA: is anyone else hoping they add a Miles From Tomorrowland theme to this? Or, better yet, re-do Stitch’s Great Escape into a new Miles From Tomorrowland attraction?! That would be so much better!

In other news, I got some of my Jedi Mickey dinners transferred to other DISers. Glad to make some magic for others.

Also, I was able to grab a single FP+ for the Festival of Fantasy Parade on the 24-hour day. For the Noon parade. And that was the ONLY FP+. I think my goal will be to get a second one and move or change our 11:55am Liberty Tree Tavern lunch (may have to give that up, but I’m not heartbroken, as it was a late addition anyway). If we only end up with this one FP+, I’d have Dug and Izzy use it (it’s on my band, but I think that should work) and I can either watch from elsewhere or do something else, as I at least saw it once. Ideally, two for the 3pm parade would come up and we could keep our LTT lunch and do the parade then. We’ll see. By the way, it was my Barnstormer FP+ that I gave up for this. I think I can get another one of those same day, so I’m okay with it. Oh, also, Pirates is now available to FP+, but I don’t have any timeslots I’m willing to give up for it. We’ll either ride standby or get same-day FP+ at least one day of our trip. I also booked a FP+ for Pirates for me first thing departure morning. Don’t plan to use it, but just in case, since I have the AP and all.

Okay, update already : I just snagged a 1pm LTT ADR. AND it didn’t make me cancel my 11:55am. Until we get FoF worked out, I’m going to hang onto both options. Yay! I also was able to shift back our FP+ for the coasters just a bit, so I think we can still make them all, even with the later lunch. Woo hoo!

Oh, one more thing: at the Sci Fi Galactic Breakfast, they are rumored to be giving out lightsabers to everyone! Extra bonus!

Moving on…

I covered the beginning of today as part of yesterday. Late night and/or early morning. Dug and I just talked about things and we’re thinking it’s unlikely that he will go over to the 24-hour-day wee hours. The next day, MK hours were extended to 1am and then 1-3am EMH. So, he could get his fill of the MK then and hopefully avoid the crowds of the 24 hour day. We’ll see what we think in a month, but that seems more reasonable. Then he will get plenty of sleep before the big Deluxe Premium Feel the Force Package day.

So, at some point we’ll have returned the rental car and made our way to DHS. Park opens at 8am, but we don’t need to be at rope drop. Unless we want to be. We have a FP+ at 9:05am for Tower of Terror. If we don’t make it, it’s okay, as we’ll have already ridden it other days. We do, however, need to check in for our package around 10am. So, we’ll do that and then head in to claim our spots for the parade at 11am. We’ll grab some free drinks and snacks while we wait. Our package allows us to follow the parade up to the stage. Dug was considering dressing up and/or putting Izzy in her Ewok costume, but not sure if we’ll do that.

After the parade/stage show, we will be in our window for a Star Tours FP+ (11:10am-12:10pm). Both of this morning's FP+ are just one with plans to get Rider Swaps. If we only have time for one of us to ride, we’ll save the Rider Swaps for later on.

We have lunch scheduled for 12:10pm at the Brown Derby. Will probably have a light lunch of Cobb Salad and whatever else appeals to us. We just want to have a quick meal, as we have shows that at least Dug has to get to (all 4 SWW shows this day are included in our package – I will likely skip most of them and do other things with Izzy, though).

The first is Behind the Force at 1:45pm. I have a FP+ for Voyage of the Little Mermaid from 1:25-1:40pm. I’m thinking that Izzy and I try to see this show while Dug is in his, then I’ll get Izzy down for a stroller nap.

Dug’s next show will be Stars of the Saga at 3:15pm, so we should have a little down time between shows and during her nap (the shows are about 30 minutes each). Not sure what we’ll do. Maybe trade off going to One Man’s Dream? Or using up our Rider Swaps, if needed?

When Izzy wakes up from her nap, I’ve got a FP+ to take her to the Disney Junior Live show. Doing this update has been helpful, as it made me look at FP+ options to get a better time and I did. I was worried she might not be awake yet at the time I had, but now I was able to snag a 4:30-4:45pm arrival window, which should be perfect... Ack, nope. Just changed it back. I just remembered I had to do that early time (3:40-3:55pm) because it’s the only time that works around the Warwick Davis Ewok show at 5:15pm. That’s the only one I think I’d like to go to (and take Izzy…and snacks for Izzy). So, she might have to take a short nap to see the Disney Junior show, followed by the Ewok show.

Once that show is done, we have FP+ for Toy Story Mania from 5:55-6:55pm. This should be a perfect window between shows to do this. Maybe we can also sneak in a meet with Buzz and Woody if the line isn’t crazy. Not sure on that, though.

Oh, I just remembered that shopping at Darth’s Mall (with no line) is part of our package. Maybe this is the time to do that? Oh, actually, when Izzy’s napping is probably a good time to do that, as long as strollers are allowed. Or we switch off. Of course, this is mostly for Dug, but I’d like to take a peek at the place.

So, the last show of the day is Obi Wan and Beyond at 7pm. Dug will go to that and Izzy and I will amuse ourselves. I’d like to get some character meets in this day, as we have a chance. I’m not sure how late they’re out, but it looks like we can at least meet Lightning McQueen and Mater and also Woody and Buzz (if we haven’t yet) at this time. I really want to see Minnie in her dressing room, but it looks like we might have to squeeze that in earlier in the day? I need to study up on character meets. (I did look up characterpalooza and am bummed that it doesn't happen on SWW days. )

After Dug gets out of the Obi Wan show, around 7:30pm, we’ll have an hour to eat dinner. I originally put “counter service” in the plan and figured we’d wing it. However, there is this talk now of a “Rebel Hangar” lounge in Backlot Express during SWW. Nobody really knows much about it, except that we all want to go there, of course. Not even sure if it will be something that can be reserved. So, that might be a dinner option, otherwise we’ll find something quick and not overly filling – because we go to the dessert party next!

We should be able to get into the party around 8:30pm. We’ll enjoy the music and desserts and atmosphere. I loved this during the Frozen Summer Fun Premium Package day, so hoping this is a great experience too! We’ll see the fireworks at 9:30pm and then head out.

If Dug hasn’t gotten his fill of the Magic Kingdom, it’s open until 3am. Otherwise, we’ll need to rest up for our Akershus breakfast in the morning!

 

[afwdwfan]

Or, better yet, re-do Stitch’s Great Escape into a new Miles From Tomorrowland attraction?! That would be so much better!

That would be awesome. DS LOVES that show. I just can't see them making a Disney Jr show have a big presence in MK though. The shows just don't have the longevity for an attraction. Just think if they'd have themed an attraction after Handy Manny or the Little Einsteins 8 or 10 years ago.

Also, I was able to grab a single FP+ for the Festival of Fantasy Parade on the 24-hour day. For the Noon parade. And that was the ONLY FP+.

Well, at least it is something...

By the way, it was my Barnstormer FP+ that I gave up for this. I think I can get another one of those same day, so I’m okay with it.

Yeah, I'd think you'll be ok getting that as a 4th FP

I just snagged a 1pm LTT ADR. AND it didn’t make me cancel my 11:55am.

Wow, that's odd. I'm surprised you could do that.

You don't happen to have a separate, unlinked MDE account to do this do you?

Don't worry, I won't say anything. I don't have one either...

Oh, one more thing: at the Sci Fi Galactic Breakfast, they are rumored to be giving out lightsabers to everyone! Extra bonus!

Cool!

Dug and I just talked about things and we’re thinking it’s unlikely that he will go over to the 24-hour-day wee hours. The next day, MK hours were extended to 1am and then 1-3am EMH. So, he could get his fill of the MK then and hopefully avoid the crowds of the 24 hour day. We’ll see what we think in a month, but that seems more reasonable. Then he will get plenty of sleep before the big Deluxe Premium Feel the Force Package day.

Sounds very reasonable to me. That should work out well.

Dug was considering dressing up and/or putting Izzy in her Ewok costume, but not sure if we’ll do that.

You have to do that. Cuteness overload. If that doesn't get some extra special character attention at the parades and character meets, then I don't know what will.

Ack, nope. Just changed it back. I just remembered I had to do that early time (3:40-3:55pm) because it’s the only time that works around the Warwick Davis Ewok show at 5:15pm.

DHS is hard enough on a normal day to work FP+ in around the show schedules, I can only imagine how confusing it must be to keep track of it all and plan it during SWW.

I originally put “counter service” in the plan and figured we’d wing it. However, there is this talk now of a “Rebel Hangar” lounge in Backlot Express during SWW. Nobody really knows much about it, except that we all want to go there, of course.

That could be awesome. Or a total flame out. Hard to tell since they really aren't letting anybody know what it is.