"It's better when it's just the two of us" - aka - Our first family trip! HI!!! 1/4!

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

I haven't read the whole update yet, just part 1, but I have to say that your Grandma is adorable with her determination to meet Pooh! lol
We went to CP last year and it was actually one of our favorite meals - it was our day 1 dinner ADR, the characters were perfectly timed, and we ended up leaving just in time to watch Wishes from CP's front porch But, I know that we were just lucky that the stars all aligned for a perfect evening, and really that perfect timing could happen at any restaurant at any given night. I'm glad she finally got her picture with Pooh!

bahahahah I am loling over here at poor Miguel doubling back to Space Mountain to replace the too-early set of non-FP's. AND at Mike asking why the 'other line' didn't all get FP's...probably because they listened when someone in their party said "FP's? What do we need those for? There aren't any lines!" lol...good thing you & Miguel knew better and kept piling up your FP's for the bigger afternoon crowds!

Your CP evening sounds magical! Isn't it nice when things work out that way?

I knew they would "understand" the FPs eventually! It definitely didn't take long!

Great updates!! That sucks about the FP. Also I would be annoyed with people being late. For some reason in Disney you all have to be on time...haha That kitchen sink ice cream is insane!! I would def. have to have a big group to eat that.

Thank you! I completely agree with being on time in Disney. I feel like even being off by a few minutes can really make a difference at the beginning of the day. And, I'm always so paranoid that we'll be turned away from an ADR if we're too late!

I'm sorry to hear about your bad Wishes experience. Unless you are able to snag one of the chairs and sit right at the railing at the train station, I don't think the view is very good. Its just the same, if not better right below the train station near the flag pole, IMO.

We love B&C! DH & I frequent that place too often when we stay at BWV. So glad everyone enjoyed the Kitchen Sink and that even Mike came back to partake!

Yeah, I don't think we'll be watching Wishes from the train station anymore. I really do prefer it on Main Street, as crowded as it may be!

B&C became a favorite of ours. We went there several times! In fact, I think it was my favorite thing about the BC!

I love CP! I don't think we've ever seen all the characters either!!! They don't all walk around one right after another and that's wierd to me!

HAHA I laughed so hard when you kept updating that they loved the FPs after complaing about having them! I dislike people that complain a lot, and I thought that they would probably end up loving them, which they did as you said and I laughed!!! That jus goes to show that you should never complain about something you don't know a lot about!!! LOL

I feel so bad that your wishes view wasn't the best and that Mike complained! I would have been biting my lip badly not to say anything! Or to snap and tell him to go watch downby hisself! lol But that's how I am- I can only take so much negativity from people before it gets to me and I can't NOT say anything!

I've yet to go to Beaches and Cream. It's so cute inside!! I am glad that Mike came to enjoy in it and you all had a great experience with it and then night ended well

I think they could really use some better planning for the how the characters come around at CP. This is (if I'm remembering correctly) three trips in a row where we didn't meet all of them. For us, it's not too big of a deal, but I would imagine that it would be for little kids! We don't want to have to sit and wait for 20 minutes after we've eaten to see them, either!

I am the same way - negativity really starts to affect me and my mood after awhile! I was definitely at my breaking point during Wishes!

Great set of updates. Sorry about the bad Wishes experience. We grabbed spots right in front of the Plaza and they were great. I'm glad to know it wasn't wonderful at the train station though, because that is where I wanted to go, but got outvoted. Good thing I guess

Beaches n Cream! We walked down to the Boardwalk Area twice specifically to find Beaches n Cream. I knew that they didn't allow anyone staying outside BC/YC to go in the pool area, but it just seemed really blocked off. I couldn't figure out how to get over to where Beaches was. I was really disappointed that we didn't get to try it. The Kitchen Sink looked like so much fun. I have an issue with eating after people, so I probably wouldn't like it, but it looked like fun.

I didn't notice it raining Super Bowl night, but I think we might've been eating at Kona at that time, so thats probably why.

Thank you! I wouldn't recommend the train station unfortunately. Out on Main Street is so much better.

The KS does get a little gross after a point. They bring you a bunch of bowls and a big spoon so you can all dip out your own, though.

 

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

Looked like a full & fun day in the Magic Kingdom Courtney! Sorry you didn't make it for rope drop.. I'll have to remember that for August, that it takes longer to get to MK from the TTC than the resort buses
Something else that you made me think of.. as part of being in a bigger group... was the restroom breaks! when it's just the two of us, we barely ever stop - but with a group of 8, we'll have to stop more often lol.

That was odd about the noise echoing in the train station during Wishes but finishing the night at Beaches & Cream with a Kitchen Sink sounded perfect


Emma x

I find it kind of annoying that it takes as long as it does to get to the MK. That is the one and only park I prefer taking a bus to. It's so nice to be dropped off right in front!

I seriously felt like we were always stopping for someone to go to the bathroom!

The Kitchen Sink was the perfect way to end the night.

Another great update Courtney!

It is very hard touring WDW as a party of six, We did it in October of last year and I got so tired of trying to please everyone and making sure they were all having a good time. We had to make a LOT of stops for cigarettes and bathroom breaks lol.

Beaches & Cream - what can I say? There is a reason why my family love the BC so much

Thank you! Traveling with a group is definitely challenging, even moreso than I expected!

I think B&C was one of my favorite things about the BC!

I really hope that one day you get to experience rope drop at Magic Kingdom. You can skip all the other parks, but the Welcome show is just so magical!

Seems like you had a great day overall, despite the few downs. I have to agree with Mike on one thing though. Magic, Memories and You is such a beautiful and magical show that is better experiences way up close. And though you miss a bit of the effect of Wishes being to close, I think how special MMY is more than makes up for it! But I guess with the rain that started, it might have been better to be covered.

I love the time you got to spend alone with Miguel at SAB. I'm sure it felt nice to hang out just the two of us.

I want to try the Kitchen Sink! Ron and I are hoping to one day visit the parks with one of our brothers so that cousins can play together, and I'm sure the kids would love to dig in that ice cream!

I really, really want to make it for RD at the MK someday. I feel like it would be the perfect way to start off the day.

The one and only other time that we saw MM&Y was during the Wishes dessert party, so we were still pretty far away then, too. I bet it is so much better right at the castle.

You must try the KS! It is such a fun experience.

Well, since you've read my previous TRs, you know that my family never makes it out when we plan. I've never seen the opening show at MK, either. I may just leave them in the bed during this upcoming trip!

Always enjoy eating at Crystal Palace.

Just have to ask......Who/What was the tour group wearing pink in your Haunted Mansion picture?

SAB is awesome, isn't it? Fun, but exhausting!

We've never tried Tony's, for all the reasons you talked about. I've read the mixed reviews, so I was glad to hear from someone I "know".

Sorry that Wishes didn't turn out like you'd planned, but hey-what a great ending to the night with a Kitchen Sink! Y'all finished off more than we did!

Enjoyed your update!

I guess if there's one thing I'm guilty of doing both at home and on vacation it's not giving myself enough time to get ready in the mornings. I have no problem getting out of bed at Disney. I should just set an alarm for earlier!

I think the tour group in pink were the quinceanera girls. They all were wearing shirts that said "15". There were quite a few tour groups there, which surprised me! I wasn't expecting so many in February.

Great ending to the day! Ice-cream makes everything better, especially in Disney.

I have only stayed at the Poly because I looove the MK, but your TR with the BC is making me think about things.

B&C was a great way to end the day. It definitely made me forget about some of my irritations from earlier in the day!

The BC is a great resort, but I must admit, I'd pick the Poly over the BC any day!

 

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

I have really been enjoying your TR. I have been taking notes, and will use it to study, for I will be planning our family trip for next year. Your reports are always so informative and fun.

Thank you! I'm so glad you are enjoying the report. I hope my tales of traveling with a group will come in handy!

Great update!

Ugh, I'm sorry you missed MK rope drop! It's such a cute show, I hope you get to see it someday!

Aww, Crystal Palace, I love that place! I almost want to go back in May, even though I don't have an ADR for it right now...maybe I should make one...

Haha, I love that everyone was impressed by the Fast Passes!

Isn't SAB awesome? It does seem like it was a pain that you could only get in at certain areas, though, when we stayed there, we just walked in and we had to find a CM to get a bracelet!

OMG the kitchen sink looks so good! I was just reading about it, it's only 8 scoops of ice cream? That doesn't seem so bad...I wonder if Brandon and I could conquer it...we DO like ice cream!

ps-I started my May PTR, come on over when you get a chance!

I am determined to make it to RD at the MK! Hopefully on our next trip. Being at a monorail resort should leave me with no excuses!

Yeah, there actually isn't that much ice cream in the KS - it's mostly whipped cream! If I ever get it again, I actually think I would ask for it without the whipped cream.

Wow so much to say ...

I'm so sorry you missed rope drop - we've never seen it either

You're breakfast at CP looks amazing - makes me feel good about adding a reservation there for our MK day

Great job on teaching everyone the amazingness of Fast pass

My heart literally aches that you had such a bad Wishes experience ... now you and Miguel just have to go back on a Wishes cruise to have another super great memory

Wow, wow, wow on the kitchen sink, that thing is unreal ... and I was laughing so hard at your Grandpa with the Milky Way

I love the CP breakfast! It's my favorite way to start off an MK day.

I am still sad about Wishes! I hate having less than magical moments during things that are normally so special!

Here to read along...

Thank you for joining in!

I've never seen the RD at MK either... we try to get before opening ADRs at CP. Which we love! Breakfast at CP is how we start our MK days it is a nice spread, and so relaxed. I'm sorry you didn't get to see all the characters inside. Your grandmother's picture with Pooh is adorable!
I feel the same you do about Tony's we went there last year and honestly we weren't impressed. It was ok not horrible but not great. I think most of that came from the very rushed service. I'm sorry Wishes was not enjoyable this time around I also feel there is something very magical about Wishes. Last year we saw it from the bus stop since DS was tired and cranky.
Oh WOW to the KS that look delicious! It something to try with a group though.

We love starting off our MK days at the CP, too. It really gets us excited for the day ahead!

Rushing at Tony's must be standard service! It will be hard for us to go back because of that!

 

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

Just finished catching up on your TR! I'm enjoying reading- even the less than spectacular parts; it's just how life goes sometimes!

Though I am sure a trip for just you & Miguel can't come soon enough!

I'm glad you're enjoying even the less than magical parts! I decided before beginning this TR that I would be 100% honest! And yes, Miguel and I are really looking forward to a trip with just the two of us!

Great update!

Beaches & Cream- I've always wanted to try the Kitchen Sink!

Wishes - I'm so sorry it was not enjoyable. Wishes is my absolute favorite part of WDW! My kids like to watch me cry and make fun of me during EVERY show! Oh the joys of parenting!! I'm very proud of you though, you kept your cool which is not always easy, not sure I could have, especially during Wishes of all things!

Thank you!

I was so upset that Wishes was kind of ruined for me. You know something is wrong when you're willing it to hurry up and be over!

Aww, I hope on your trip with Miguel that you get to see the MK rope drop! It's magical-- I can't watch it without getting choked up!!
Augh, I tried watching Wishes from the train station once (underneath it actually) and it's really not a good spot. Our view was blocked and it was very claustrophobia-inducing.
I'm glad that despite some rocky spots, your day ended on a high note! Your Kitchen Sink adventure sounds really funny!
Also-- I have to ask...do your grandparents co-ordinate outfits?! Their tops are matching in both the day and night photos and it's adorable!!

I am so determined to see RD on our next trip. Although, I've said that every trip and looks how its turned out. I think we just need to get up earlier!

Haha - yes, my grandmother coordinates their outfits so they look good in pictures!

I hope I can remember everything I wanted to comment on!

The CP breakfast just looks so good! I've made reservations there for the past 2 trips and for one reason or another we've cancelled both times. I hope to get there one of these trips! It was cute how your grandma just wanted a picture with Pooh!

Glad to hear you didn't wait on many lines but your FPs came in handy when you did need them!

Wow, I will just die if we can stay at the BC for our honeymoon...your pool time sounds amazing!!! Your drinks look yummy as well.

I'm happy Tony's was above your expectations! Sorry to hear Mike started to be a complainer though, what a downer

OMG Beaches and Cream... The Kitchen Sink sounds like pure heaven although I've never tried it. I just love the whole atmosphere of B&C though, like an old soda fountain. The little "ceremony" they do when someone orders the Kitchen Sink is so cool too!

I hope you get to try CP sometime! We really enjoy it.

The complaining was definitely getting to me by the end of the night. The Kitchen Sink did help, though!

Joining!!! Cannot believe how late I am! Going back to the beginning...

Glad you made it over!

 

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

I am just catching up on your new TR! I totally understand how you felt, the person I went with on my last trip complained a majority of the trip. At first I too took it personally, but then I just ignored the complaints and repeated my mantra for the trip "I'm in my happy place, I'm in my happy place!"

It's very difficult to deal with constant complaining especially when, in my opinion, it's not warranted! I had to repeat that same think to myself many times!

Looking forward to more of your adventures!

Day 2 is (finally) coming up soon!

Hi Courtney! I've been away from the DIS for awhile, but I'm back now and ready to catch up on your latest TR! I'm going back to read now, just wanted to say Hi and let you know I'm here!

Okay I'm all caught up! Yay!

Chick Fil A- great way to start a long drive!

YAY! I'm so glad you stayed at Beach Club! That's where we're staying in July, so I can't wait to read more about it! It looks amazing!

I'm glad you told your grandmother you were upset so you guys could talk it out! There's no need to start a Disney vacation with complaining!

I can't wait to use the international gateway to Epcot!

AHHH I'm so ready for the new Fantasyland!

I am loving the new borders for the 2012 PP pics!

It's so funny that your dream Disney job is a Jungle Cruise skipper because it's mine too! It's the only job where I could rely entirely on my sarcasm!

I can't wait to try Stormalong Bay!

YAY! You got the kitchen sink! John is determined to try that on our trip this summer! He wants to go all Man vs. Food on me and eat the whole thing! It looks delicious.

Wow, your trip is getting me so excited for our July trip! I can't wait to read more!

I know I've already said this on your TR, but it's so good to see you back here!

You guys are going to love the BC! Between SAB, the International Gateway and B&C, it's a fabulous resort!

I don't know how I missed that you started this, but I'm here and all caught up!

I agree that it is tough traveling with a group, and it can be a very different type of trip. We frequently travel with my family and DH's family, and while it is fun, I feel a lot of pressure to keep everyone happy and that can get a little stressful. We are going down next month with DH's parents, his sister, his sister's fiancee and his sisters fiancee's parents. I'm a little wary about this trip, because I don't know his sister's fiancees parents at all, and its difficult to travel with people you don't know. Its also challenging because they want me to plan the trip, and I'm reluctant to take the reins. Mostly because its Easter week, and I've been told that they want to avoid waiting in line, and don't want to be around crowds, but also don't want to wake up early. That's a catch-22 if I ever heard one, and I don't want to be in the line of fire when they figure out that its not going to work.

I hope things get easier as the trip wears on, and that your bounceback trip at least took some of the sting out of not being able to experience WDW the way you would have liked to.

I definitely felt a lot of pressure on this trip. I felt quite a bit during planning, but it wasn't to the point of being upsetting, and I figured that once we got there that would all go away and we'd just enjoy being at Disney. Sadly, I think it got worse once we got there!

A little late but joining in!!!

So glad to have you joining in!

 

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

Oh no! I'm so sorry about your accident! Thank goodness you are okay!

I hope your sore body parts feel better very soon!

OH NO! Sorry you've had an accident, but thank goodness you were not injured seriously. Cars can be fixed.

Oh No! How horrible!

Glad you're okay, which is the main thing

Dear Courtney, NOW I know why you have been on my heart so heavy this week! I am so thankful it wasn't any worse and that YOU will be okay eventually!! Take good care of yourself and know I am lifting you in prayer!

OH MY!!!!
Car Accidents are always scary, even just fender benders ( to me )

Hope you are doing okay!!!!

Oh no! I'm glad you are okay though!!

I'm so sorry about your accident Courtney!!! I know when I had mine it definitely freaked me out and I tried to avoid the spot where I had my accident. All the sore spots will heal and you'll be good as new soon.

OMG Glad you are ok.

EEK Courtney, I am so glad you are ok aside from some soreness and that your accident wasn't any worse than it was!

OMG! This is awful, but I'm glad it wasn't any worse!!! I was in a car accident almost 4 years ago and I agree that it is traumatizing. I don't know if you have yet, but I suggest getting back behind the wheel as soon as you can so you don't stay mentally scarred for life. I still tense up at several intersections, and am now the worst, most nervous passenger ever, but at least it's not so bad that I can't be in a car.

My thoughts are with you Courtney

So glad you are ok. Don't worry about us, we'll be waiting patiently

Hope you are okay...Fixing a car is easy, fixing people, not so much!

Glad you're okay. That looked bad

SO glad you are ok! Hope the soreness starts subsiding soon. I know that stuff is no fun!

Oh so sorry about the accidents. I am glad that you weren't seriously injured. Accidents are so scary.

Oh Courtney, I'm so sorry!! I was in my first accident two yeas ago and it was just awful! Glad you're mostly ok-- make sure you watch the soreness though and head straight to the hospital if something doesn't feel right!

Joining in!

So Sorry to hear about your accident! Hoping your body is recovering!


My hubby and I missed Illuminations on our 2009 trip. Something I am very sad about! I think with as much time as we will be in Epcot in October we should definitely have a chance to catch it!

Also sorry Wishes wasn't magical this trip. I remember that as being wonderful in 2009.

Great job on the FP collection! I am scared about using FP in the future since you need to use them during the return time! It really puts a damper on planning the days!

I'm so sorry about the accident but I'm very happy to hear that you were OK. Take all the time you need, we'll be here!

oh Courtney I hope you are ok .. I had two accidents in 2010 and I know how horrible it can be; as well as the inconvenience of having to get your car sorted out like Mel said.. if you can, get behind the wheel again asap, I'm still a pretty nervous driver!



Luv & pixie dust,

Emma x

Ouch! I'm glad you're okay. Take all the time you need to rest up, we'll be here.

Oh no, I'm so sorry you were in an accident! At least you're ok and weren't seriously injured! I was in a similar (I think?) accident years ago, I was the last of 3 cars too, and I got blamed for it! I'm still mad about that because someone totally cut in front of me in traffic and then slammed on their brakes, and then they said I hit them from behind and then pushed that car into the car in front of them! Ughhhh! And I was sore for days! It was awful!

I hope you are feeling better soon!

So sorry to hear about the accident Courtney. I was in one a few weeks ago (I hit a deer!) and was all shaken up for a few days too. It's scary stuff!

Hope you're feeling better soon!

Oh, Courtney! I'm so sorry to hear about your accident! I hope that you are resting and taking good care of yourself - mentally and physically! Disney is always a great place for your mind and body... so what better place to spend some time recovering from that but on the Disboards?!

Thank goodness you are okay! Take your time and be good to you because we are not going anywhere. Life is so precious.

Ohh I'm so sorry to hear about your accident. I hope you start to feel better soon your poor car, thank god for insurance! Take care of your self

I am so sorry!! What a pain. I'm glad you are ok!

So sorry to hear about your accident! I am glad you are ok.

OMG! so sorry to hear about your accident!!I hope you are okay!! xxoo

Thank you all so much for your kind words about the accident! Your care and concern means so much to me! I feel so blessed to have such great DIS friends! I'm glad to be *almost* done with the whole ordeal. All of my soreness is gone, and I have my car back (which looks good as new), but unfortunately I have to go to court tomorrow, which I am really nervous about! I've never been to court before, so I have no idea what to expect. My stomach is in knots just thinking about it!

 

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

I just found your report and got caught up.

Sorry to hear about the accident! I hope things brighten up soon!

And thank you for sharing all the details of the trip- the magical and the no-so-magical! I think it makes for a much more realistic report!

Thank you for joining in! I am glad you are enjoying all of the honest details!

So excited when I came across another report from you. Im not sure I could ever go with anyone but my family of 4. My son is in marching band and is going to WDW soon and I'm tagging along. I keep telling my dh I'm not sure if its going to be as fun.

So glad to have you joining in! I think Disney is most enjoyable in its "natural" state - so, whatever we're used to it being. It is hard to adjust to something new!

​

Thank you, Judy! You are always so thoughtful!

WoW! I am glad you are okay, even if you are shook up from the whole experience. I hate dealing with people, so car accidents are not only traumatizing, but also annoying! Luckily I have only had to deal with one (two, if you count my husband's) in my life!

For me, one of the worst parts was having to call the other parties involved to exchange information after the fact. I am very shy, so it was difficult for me!

Hi Courtney Just wanted to drop in and say that I hope you are doing better and got everything sorted with insurance etc

Thank you, Shannon! I think things are almost squared away now. Thankfully the insurance and car repair was fairly simple. I'm hoping court tomorrow is just as easy.

Hi Courtney! Hope everything is going well for you!

Hi Michelle! Thank you for checking in!

 

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

Hi everyone! I am SO sorry that it has taken me so long to get my next update up! I have never gone so long between updates - 4 weeks! Wow! I have no good excuse, really. Just laziness. I've got to get with it, though, because I'm itching to start our October PTR. We're almost under 6 months! I'll be making ADRs next Monday!

Thank you all for sticking with me! I promise I'll do better!

Ok - on with day 2!


DAY 2 – PART 1

Miguel and I woke up very excited on Monday – we couldn’t wait to get to Epcot! I quickly got ready, and then while Miguel was getting ready I decided to go down to the BC Marketplace and get a quick bite to eat for breakfast. We had originally planned on just grabbing something from the club lounge, but it became a little too difficult to coordinate having someone meet us at the elevator to let us up to the fifth floor and I really need some protein in the mornings to prevent headaches before lunch and most of what was offered was just carbs (pastries, cereal, fruit, etc). I love carbs, but I need some meat or cheese with them in the mornings!

The BC Marketplace is the CS place at the BC, but it’s definitely more limited than what you’d find at other resorts. It’s really just a “market” that connects to the gift shop that primarily sells pre-packaged things, but they do offer a few cooked meals. If I was planning on eating a lot of CS meals or even if I was just planning on visiting my resort’s CS place a few times on a trip (which we often do), this would be a big downside to the BC. Yes, there are other options close by (Hurricane Hanna’s, the BW Bakery and of course the Epcot places) but sometimes you just want something quick and close, and the BC doesn’t really offer that. But, since we had tons of TS meal planned, it wasn’t a problem for us!

I ended up choosing the omelette croissant sandwich, which you can get with just cheese (my pick) or ham and cheese. This is kind of like the croissant sandwiches at the MSB, but not quite as good. I had kind of a love-hate relationship with these sandwiches. I really enjoyed them as I was eating them, but I felt a little icky afterwards. I think they were just really heavy, and I’m just not used to eating something like that in the mornings and then walking so much after. Still though, this was a tasty dish and I would recommend it if you’re at the BC.

Once I finished up my sandwich, Miguel was ready and it was time to meet up with everyone in the lobby and make the walk to Epcot! It was a beautiful morning!

Our first order of business as soon as we made it to Epcot was to high-tail it to the Land for Soarin! This was everyone’s first time on the ride and I was so excited to see and hear their reactions.

We first grabbed some FPs for later, and of course Mike questioned why we needed them if we were getting in the line now. I did an internal eye-roll, explained that this would most likely be a group favorite, and then moved everyone into the stand-by line for our first flight!

The verdict: they loved it! I sat next to my grandmother and she oohhed and aahhed (and gasped) the whole time! The Imax-ness of the ride made my dad just a little dizzy, but other than that, this was a hit!

Unfortunately, we had to make a pretty long bathroom break at this point because my grandmother wasn’t feeling well. She only has a fourth of a stomach so her body is pretty sensitive and the long walk right after breakfast had made her a little sick to her stomach. We took the time to just lounge for a bit until she felt well again.

After making our way out of the land, we headed over to another attraction that I was excited to see the reactions on: Test Track!

I had a feeling that my grandmother would find this a little too thrilling, but we did it anyway! She screamed the entire time! We of course found this to be pretty hilarious and laughed throughout the whole ride.

Now, please don’t think I am mean for taking my grandmother on the attraction, especially after she wasn’t feeling well! As far as her stomach goes, this is something that she’s dealt with for 30 plus years, and it’s a pretty common thing for her to have little reactions. We’ve all learned how to manage it pretty well, and she refuses to let it slow her down! Also, I would never put her on something like ToT or RnRC or EE, but I actually did think that she would end up enjoying TT. Yeah, not so much!

After TT we decided we needed something a little more tame for grandmother, so we headed to the front of the park for Spaceship Earth. I must say, I kind of missed walking through the front of the park and seeing SE first thing! So, we of course had to take a few pictures before getting on the ride.

Spaceship Earth was a welcomed relaxing ride, and we all loved building our futures. I kept hearing my grandparents laughing the whole time their futuristic selves were on the screens!

Continued in next post.

 

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

DAY 2 – PART 2

At this point, we decided to leave Future World and head back to the World Showcase so that we would be close to our lunch ADR at Rose and Crown. We took some time an explored the pretty gardens in Canada.

We still had quite a bit of time before lunch, so Mike suggested the O Canada movie, so we did that. I had hoped to watch some of the WS movies on this trip, but sadly this is the only one I got to.

It was neat seeing the scenery of Canada, ( and I guess the movie did its job, because it made me want to go!) but I don’t think I need to ever do this again, you know?

After we finished with the movie, we were all getting hungry, so we decided to try to check in at Rose & Crown early in hopes of being seated before our ADR time.

Luckily, we only waited about 5 minutes and we were able to be seated a few minutes before our planned time! I was really hoping for a seat on the patio and when I asked if we could be sat there, I was told no problem! We were lead down to a table in the lower portion of the patio and introduced to our lovely waiter, Katie. She was so sweet! I was a little worried that our table was going to be too warm, but it ended up being really nice. I think I could have sat there all day and just stared out at the lagoon!

I already knew what I wanted, so there was no need to peruse the menu for long! I was dying to try the fish and chips! I was so glad I got them – they were amazing! The fish was battered perfectly and the fries were just the right texture – crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Delicious! This is what we all ended up choosing (except my dad) and we all agreed that this was an excellent meal!

My dad is allergic to seafood, so he got a pork dish, and he enjoyed that as well.

Our dishes were just small enough to leave us wanting a little more, so we decided to get a few desserts to share with the table. We went with the custard (which was like a crème brulee), the cheesecake, a sugar-free trifle (as my grandmother can’t have sugar) and of course, the sticky toffee pudding. Everything was very good, but the toffee was definitely the winner!

After we finished eating we just sat for a while and enjoyed the view and the great lunch. We all loved the R&C, and Miguel and I can’t wait to go back in October!

We couldn’t sit for too long though – we still had things to do!

We still had our Soarin’ FPs from earlier, so off we went to the nice, air conditioned Land. Our first order of business was a ride that we always enjoy – Living with the Land!

Everyone enjoyed this. It’s so simple, but so interesting!

After LWTL, we did Soarin’ again! Everyone was very happy that we had an extra set of FPs!

Our final stop for he afternoon was Test Track, again, since it had been another favorite. We surprisingly convinced my grandmother to do it again, but she still hated it! Oh well!

We decided to play this one up a bit, to match my grandmother's reaction. Everyone but my dad got the memo! And Miguel was too busy looking at my grandmother's face!

At this point, we were all very ready for our afternoon break. It was pretty warm that day and Epcot is a lot of walking after all! On the walk back to the BC, the skies looked very ominous and it seemed as though mine and Miguel’s plan of SAB wouldn’t work out.

We stopped for a quick PP picture, and then we made a mad dash back to the BC to try to beat the rain.

Continued in next post.

 

[SOUTHERNtinkerBELLE]

DAY 2 – PART 3

When we got back to our room Miguel decided to hit the gym and I would take some pictures of the pool area and then we’d meet up at Hurricane Hanna’s for a few drinks.

After about 30 minutes of my wandering, Miguel called to say he had finished at the gym so I grabbed us a daiquiri (for me) and a margarita (for him) and got the same table we had been at the day before.

It was a little chilly since the sun wasn’t shining too brightly, but it was still very peaceful just being by the pool. We came to really love those moments that we could escape and just be by ourselves!

My two drinks the day before had made me pretty tired, so I opted to stop at just one and we went back up to the room to get ready for the evening. After a quick change of clothes for me and a shower for Miguel, we met up with everyone in the lobby to walk back to Epcot for dinner at SAI!

Miguel and I were very excited for this meal since it was one of our favorites from our honeymoon, and I knew that my family would love the ambience of the restaurant. I know I’ve said this a few times, but I really do encourage you to give SAI a try! They have really tried hard to improve it, and I think it shows!

Don’t you just love the Mexico pavilion at night? It is probably my favorite “after dark” country.

We tried for a long time to get these pictures just right!

After our little photo session we made our way inside and there were once again many ooohhs and ahhhs from my grandmother. My grandparents had never been to Epcot, and they just couldn’t get over how each country looked so authentic. My grandmother loved that the inside of the pyramid was made to look like it was outside. Apparently, it must have been very authentic to her, because she kept asking us if we were actually outside!

I got us checked in, and we had a little wait so we entertained ourselves with all of the fun merchandise.

Finally, our buzzer went off and we were led to a table right by the water! I just love getting a good table at a restaurant; I think it instantly starts the meal off right!

Grandmother was obsessed with the boats from the Fiesta Tour, and she kept trying to get a good picture of them. I think this picture is so hilarious, because you can tell that the girl totally knows she’s being photographed!

Sadly, I have no food porn to share with you all from this meal! Because of the lighting, I took pictures with my iphone instead of my camera and I’ve sense gotten a new phone and lost all of my pictures. We all ended up getting the same thing, with the exception of my grandmother, which was the steak tampequena. This is what Miguel and I got on our honeymoon, and it was just as tasty as we had remembered! You get a skirt steak, a cheese enchilada, rice, beans and guacamole. Everyone loved it! My grandmother got the fish tacos, which are actually on the special DDP three-course menu, but they had no problem letting her order them.

Overall, this was an excellent meal! We were all stuffed, but we of course had to go in search of some dessert, since we had all decided by this point that no meal was complete without dessert! I swear, I have never eaten so much in my life!

I was really hoping to try the caramel store, but by the time we got there, they had already closed for the night since technically the park had already closed. Never to fear, though, I had another idea!

Something else I had really been wanting to do was check out the Boardwalk area, so I suggested we go over to the BW Bakery. Everyone agreed, so off we went!

The BW is so cute! Miguel and I explored it some more a little later in the week, and we really fell in love with it. I think I would like to stay at the BWI one day, but I must admit, the clown pool is a turn off, and I’m not even afraid of clowns!

Inside the bakery, we all debated about what yummy treat to enjoy.

I don’t remember what everyone had at this point, but I do know that I had the Tiramisu and it wasn’t very good. In fact, no one’s desserts were very good. It’s cute, but we weren’t very impressed with the BW Bakery. At least it was nice to sit outside and eat, though! The BC and YC looked so pretty across the lake!

After we finished our desserts we literally wobbled our way back to the BC. I felt so stuffed! All of that food made it very easy to fall asleep that night!

 

[Dream426]

I love the test track picture!! I cracked up when I saw it. haha

My husband has the same hat that girl has in the boat, Fiesta Tour. He loves it...haha Here he is wearing it. He wore it all over the Disney cruise and on Pirate Night...haha

 

[IheartDDuck]

Courtney, I'm so sorry to hear about your accident! But, I'm glad that you are well and on the mend. I could imagine that's such a scary experience.

I envisioned your inner eye roll that you did with the "why do we need these if we're riding it now?" for Soarin'. Oh inexperienced ones.

Love the R&C. Great food pictures. I haven't eaten there in a few trips.

 

[alliebelle3]

Loved the update. I love Epcot days!

Your Test Track pictures are absolutely hilarious. Your grandma's a champ for going on twice!

I'm bummed that you were disappointed in the BW Bakery. Did you try any of the cupcakes? I've never had a bad thing there. Maybe it was an off night?

I just have an unusual obsession with the BW...it's perfection to me, lol!

 

[hugApug]

Joining in! We'd love to stay at the Beach Club, and travel with family someday! Keep up the updates!

 

[Jennifer48]

What a great Epcot day! With the exception of your grandmother getting briefly sick.

This shot of the Mexico pavilion is amazing! I love the moon in the sky!

 

[Curiouser&curiouser!]

Sounds like a lovely day at Epcot!

I am suprised that the desserts from the Boardwalk Bakery weren't that great- They always look absolutely delicious!

 

[cbcrockett]

Thinking of you today and sending ! I know dealing with court stuff is never fun, but I'm sure you handled it wonderfully!

Loved the Epcot updates! Can't wait for more!

 

[ditsypixie]

Great update! The TT pictures were hilarious! Love your grandmother for trying it with everyone else!

That is so funny about BW and the clown. We love staying there and my kids think the clown is the best part! Maybe we are strange

I am so glad you mentioned San Angel Inn! I have been trying to firm up our ADR list since our reservation date is fast approaching and was hesitant to try it. But its going on our list! Thanks!

 

[klacey1]

Great update! My grandmother was also NOT a fan of Test Track when she came with me last October! We also got a priceless ride photo
Yum-- I LOVE Rose and Crown! Apparently though, they've made some substantial menu changes and took my absolute fav, the Sunday Dinner off the menu?? I'm not too thrilled with the new menu.
Would you rate SAI over La Hacienda?? I really want to try one of them our next trip.

 

[smile4stamps]

You're Grandma sounds like a champ willing to give it everything a try.

What a bummer on the BW Bakery! I'd heard such good things that is disappointing that no one had a good treat!