Last Trip? It was until we met Food & Wine -- Recap 2/12

[Sydney2977]

Kathy- First I wanted to tell you how sorry I am to hear of all the health issues going on within your family and I am praying for everyone!

I hadn't checked in since your last trip report but I'm glad to hear Mark has found a new job. Sounds like y'all are on the right track to retiring in Florida!

With band season over for now I think I can keep up with your current TR now. Sounds like a lot of fun so far. I'm missing the giraffes from our trip last year. With my DH being medically retired from the AF and starting a new job we won't be going back till exactly a year from today. I'll be living vicariously through others like you till then! Keep the great pictures and reports coming!

 

[KatMark]

I loved the updates, especially all of your photo's. You said you were going to walk to Hollywood Studio's and I thought "I hope she takes pictures along the way, and BAM, you did! ty ty! I just love your photo in front of the sign and Spaceship Earth.
Read you soon!

Thanks. I wasn't missing that opportunity to take pictures. Awww...thanks.

Finally caught up!

Dee, I've been having that problem myself.

I was back at your EPCOT update, starting out with your fantastic pictures of the animals from the balcony.

Thanks.

That's a lot of beautiful zebras!

Weren't they great?

Every time I see Mark in one of those hats, I think it is the best one ever. And then...

Stitch!



I have to admit that is one of my favorites too.

Looks like a great time with Soarin', Living with the Land and Space Ship Earth. Love the pictures of the Earth and your future.

Thank you! One of my top ten favorites.

That is great that you can get pictures with both Pooh and Tigger in the UK meeting place.

It's one of my favorite character spots.

We have never eaten at the Rose & Crown, either at the takeout or restaurant. The food always looks great. I would love to try the Scotch Egg.

Mark is very fond of that Scotch Egg.

Pretty pictures of the Boardwalk lobby and the walk to HS.

Thanks, Dee.

LOVE your backsack with your screen name!!!

We received two of those from DIS friends. Isn't it great?

I love the view from your table at Rose & Crown. We haven't dined there in a few years. It seems like there are just too many restaurants and not enough time. But one of these days I want to get there and try the Scotch egg. It looks delicious.

It's hard to pick, isn't it? I'm not sure it will get on the list for October.

It is such a nice walk from BW to HS. We were at the YC in September and found ourselves walking to and from HS at least six times. It was very convenient, but the BW would be even closer.

I really enjoyed the walk and looking forward to it in May.

Aww. Too bad you had to say goodbye to your favorite resort.. Yet the boardwalk just looks like SO MUCH FUN!

AKL is definitely top two with OKW, but Boardwalk is fast knocking one of those two out.

really cute PP pictures- you have a really cute shirt on too...

Thanks, Mo.

I adore the backpack Mark has with your dis name on it! Where did you have that made?!

It is from Disney Florals & Gifts...it was a gift...we got one from Tim (that's nice) and one from Nicki (MickeyNicki).

YAY for Hollywood Studios!!!

My least favorite park, but there are several things we really enjoy.

Hope everything is going well for you my friend.

It's getting a bit better.

Mark's scotch egg looks so good. We shared one one time and I can't wait to have another. And I love the fish and chips. So yummy.

One of our favorite TS's for sure.

Love, love, love the Boardwalk!!!! I think it is my favorite place to stay when it is just me and the hubby. We can walk to all of our favorite places! No busses.

It is great to be able to walk to two parks, and I have really come to love it.

Dinner looks great. But they're a little bit stingy on the ketchup and tartar sauce with your fish and chips, aren't they? I think they almost covered the bottom of the cups at least.

I did have to ask for extra ketchup.

I like the split stays. I can understand it being hard for you to leave your giraffes though. I'd love for us to do some split stays sometime. I even considered it for our upcoming trip. With the kids though, we just have too much crap that we'd have to move from one place to another and it just isn't worth it!

It was hard to leave the giraffes, but I really, really like Boardwalk after two stays there now (and a third coming up). I think until the kids are older you should avoid split stays. But they are fun...especially if there are a lot of resorts you still want to try.

You had a nice view for dinner! However, the rowdy kids would have annoyed me. I find that I have less and less patience with the parents that let kids act like that. I don't really blame the kids. I mean, they're kids! But the parents that just let it happen? Grrr.

I have a lot less patience too. And it wasn't so much the running around, it was the bumping in my chair and NOT saying sorry and the kid coughing all over the place.

Dinner looked good, although I have no idea what Mark had. It still looks good. I remember asking what that appetizer was on one of your previous reports. Since then, I have found a recipe to make the Scotch egg. Still haven't tried it, though...

I believe it was the corned beef and cabbage. Let me know if you make the scotch egg and how easy it is to do.

Loved seeing some of the walk between the Boardwalk and Hollywood Studios. Looking forward to more!

It was a fun walk.

I love Rose and Crown, I ate there in Sept and the food was so yummy!

It is, isn't it? I will miss it next year.

Sorry about the family behind that is the perfect way to ruin a meal (even though this does not seem to be your case)

I don't let anything ruin a meal...just ask my hips.

Yay Boardwalk!! It looks like such a nice resort and plus you can walk to 2 parks!

It really is a great resort.

 

[KatMark]

I love a Scotch egg! Yummy! Ugh, I hate out of control kids. I would love to stay at the Boardwalk some of these days for F&W.

Jill in CO

Jill, the Boardwalk is perfect for F&W.

Okay okay okay, I am so sorry to start my response with this, but I can't shake it off:


The daisy/lion/man-face/girl-child-body chairs are seriously freaking me out.

NOW I SHALL PROCEED.

Trust me, they freak me out too.

You two are so great. Also, I promise that if my child is running around at a restaurant at Disney, I will do my best to stuff my food into my tummy and go in order to let her run around away from others looking to pleasantly and peacefully dine. Also, I will try and bribe her to sit if necessary. I understand the struggle. I understand we won't be the only ones there "on vacation."

Oh trust me, I understand the excitement of the kids and I had two of my own, but these parents were so busy drinking and talking that they didn't see how close the tables are together and I kept getting banged. It is rare that we run into that.

Mmmm...scotch....

He was quite pleased with them.

I love the lights on the floor. I may know a slightly wee version of my husband and myself who will get a kick out of that, too.

Aren't they great? It was the first time I was able to get a picture of them.

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 22 WAS MY THIRTIETH BIRFLE! I'm glad you woke up to zebras. Zebras are like a mental high five to my mom. Also cool: they're turning out to be Squeaks' favorite, too, along with owls. It's nice when she reminds me of her late Nana. I hope you had a happy-my-birthday-to-you! I can't wait to see the rest of the day!

I'm glad I got the zebras on your special day.

I hope your mom and your brother and your budget are all doing alright today. Those medicine costs sure can add up. <3

Thanks; we are hanging in there.

Hi Kathy All caught up!

and hi back.

Glad you enjoyed your dinner, but sorry you had to deal with annoying kids. People never realize that while it doesn't bother them, it bothers all other around them. some people I tell ya!!

I think if the tables had not been as close it wouldn't have been as annoying.

Love the pictures of the walkways on the way out. One of the many small details that I love. Your PP Picture came out great too! Love the coloring.

Disney is great with the small details. Thanks.

The BWV look amazing! I so want to stay there some day. I knew that you could walk to Epcot from there but I didn't know you could walk to HS too!! That's awesome! Even though we aren't staying there this next time I really want to go check it out!!

Yep...you can walk to two parks which is a good thing because their bus service is awful.

As always, your family is still in my thoughts.

Thank you.

What a nice view from your table at Rose & Crown. Too bad the people behind you let their kids run around like whirlwinds. I've never understood people who allow their kids to do that.

It was a great view; we didn't let them ruin our meal.

Mark did a fine job taking pictures of the Boardwalk lobby while you were checking in. Do you remember how long it took you guys to walk from the Boardwalk to Hollywood Studios? If I can talk John (and myself) into going back to the Boardwalk, we'll probably take that same walk.

I was very pleased with his picture taking ability. We walked "slow" because that is Mark's pace and it was HOT. But I want to say 20 minutes tops (and I stopped to take pictures). I think you need to give the Boardwalk another shot. I did see that when it rained that the entertainment was inside of the Boardwalk.

I tell my kids I expect "restaurant behavior" from the both of them. They know if they don't comply, they will be summarily escorted out of the restaurant by one of us.

That's how we handled our kids too.

The scotch flight looks intriguing, but lethal. Glad Mark enjoyed it though!

Yes, the combination looked lethal to me too, and I love scotch.

My husband and I have never been to Jellyrolls. I'm thinking we may need to give that place a try this August.

We've never been either despite staying on the Boardwalk a couple of times now.

Great pictures around Epcot!

Thanks, Tim.

I never realized there was a M&G across from Rose & Crown.

Yep; inside the Toy Store at the back (but now you have to go around to the back by the gardens.

Wow you were seated fast. I hope no one I know had kids running all over the place during dinner time- or breakfast time for that matter.

Your kids were angels!

Of course Mark was feeling good after drinking a scotch flight.

Of course.

Buh Bye AKL, Helllllllllooooooo Boardwalk!

If we had to leave at least we were going to the Boardwalk and not a value.

How was the walk to DHS? Why didn't you take the boat?

I wanted to walk and we knew that our DIS meet friends wouldn't be there right at opening.

I can't wait to hear about this DIS meet.

I wonder if it is anyone you know.

What a great view from Rose & Crown. I have yet to eat there. The fish and chips looked good!

It was a great view and would have been perfect for Illuminations had we stayed (we're not fans). You must try it...it's really good.

Sad that you had to leave AKV and your wonderful savannah view, but you are going to the Boardwalk! I just love it there. The walking to 2 parks is AWESOME!

It's a great area...we love it.

I want to try Rose and Crown sometime just for the fish and chips!

You can get them at the take out window too! But then Mark wouldn't get his beer or scotch flight.

I love the light up street? floor? ground? squares at Epcot. So cool because you'd never know during the day that they light up.

It's the grounds on the way to Spaceship Earth as you leave. I've never looked to see if you can see the outline on the ground. I'll try to remember to look next time.

Sorry you had to leave AKL. I'd have a hard time leaving that view too. But, Boardwalk is one of my top 2 places I want to stay someday! I didn't know you could walk to HS from there too!

The Boardwalk is awesome!

 

[KatMark]

I'll finish up responses tomorrow as I'm heading back to mom's now. I'll try to get an update done too. Bob is still on schedule to come home on Wednesday and Mark got his work schedule so I don't have to take off next week.

 

[jedijill]

I'll finish up responses tomorrow as I'm heading back to mom's now. I'll try to get an update done too. Bob is still on schedule to come home on Wednesday and Mark got his work schedule so I don't have to take off next week.

Great news!

Jill in CO

 

[MAGICFOR2]

Kathy, I'm sorry you have been going through so much. I'm praying your brother is healing and the docs can figure out what he needs. I'm sorry you are needing to take time off, but I know you will make the precious moments count while you are there. I'm praying for peace and strength for you to get through these days

Nikki, the pic with your grandmother is such a sweet one. I'm glad you had the time to spend with her. Cutie - she probably wanted you to stop spending all your time with her.

Now back to catch up.

 

[vettegirl]

Glad to hear the good news! Just caught up, we arrived back late last night from Vegas. Had a great time but the dry air was horrible for Alexander . We have never tried R&C but it's on our bucket list. I really love Raglan Road still want to give that place a try. I love scotch eggs! Great pictures of the boardwalk, we've never stayed there but I've enjoyed the lobby. Location is so great for the two parks

Sent from my iPhone using DISBoards

 

[RGirl]

Hi Kathy!!! Playing catch-up after a bit of a hiatus from the DIS thanks to the craziness of real life. I am so happy to see updates from you - I don’t know how you manage it with all that you have going on in your life right now.

I am so in love with your view at AKL. :

Awww - your pre-breakfast photo at 1900 turned out SO cute!!! And the pic with Pluto is just adorable!!

So much Epcot fun! What great FP+ selections - and, as usual, great hat pictures!

Mmmm - the Rose and Crown dinner looks yummy, and I love the view out there.

Oh, you moved to the one and only WDW resort at which Willow and I have actually stayed! we LOVE that place so much!!!! Isn’t that walk to DHS just so peaceful and pleasant? I missed it the last time we stayed there - Willow had graduated from using a stroller, but it was just too much to ask for her to do that walk and then walk all over the park too. We had to stick with the boats.

 

[goofy4prez]

Kathy, still praying for your brother to get out of the hospital very soon and continue to pray comfort for your mother. I'm also praying strength and encouragement for you and Mark; I know it has been such a tough season for you and at times it has worn you down, but I believe better days are ahead for you.

Good luck to Mark as he starts his new job. I'm sure he is going to do great and find favor with those he works for and around.

Love the pics from the Rose & Crown. R&C is always one of those restaurants that have been on our bucket list to go to but just never seem to do it. I'm going to have to change that very soon. If for no other reason but to try the Scotch egg; that thing looks awesome.

Sorry to hear your experience was somewhat diminished by some unattended children. I love children, but I sure hate being around them when they are out of control and the parents do nothing to bring them under control. We actually had a situation once where we were at the Coral Reef a few years ago and had a seat right next to the tank. While eating, a child around 10 or so sat right on our table and took a picture. Her parents found nothing wrong with her placing her hynie on our table while eating and even found it to be humorous.

I'm looking forward to your pictures of the Boardwalk Villa's. I love the location and the decor of this resort. I agree with the F & W festival it is a great location. Here very soon Carolyn and I will have to make plans on staying there; We have even discussed buying DVC points for this resort... But not so fast just yet for us, we just bought into the Villas at the Grand Floridian.

Lastly, I cannot wait to read about the DIS meet you have waited for years to experience. I love, love, love DIS meets and finally putting faces to the user names we have known for some time.

 

[KatMark]

wow, that table is like the perfect spot at Rose & Crown - what a view! Sorry about that other family though.

It really was, Phil.

We have actually never eaten outside at Rose & Crown - but we usually go towards Illuminations time when I know they are at a premium. We would then just go out to watch the show and come back in to our table

I think in all the times we've eaten there, we have only eaten inside once.

Definitely got to get in those animal pictures while you can!

Absolutely!

Hope you enjoyed your stay at the Boardwalk. We stayed there once and while I liked the resort our specific room wasn't great - just was showing some wear and tear(scuffed walls, rug was ripped a bit, stuff like that). The location of the resort is pretty darn phenomenal though.

That describes my stay at the Beach Club. We've been fortunate and had two really nice rooms at the Boardwalk and hoping for the same in May.

It's very cool how when you walk to MGM you can see the Tower of Terror beaconing you in

Isn't it? It was so fun to see that!

You know there really is a fine line when it comes to Disney etiquette. Understanding that kids are a big part of the equation, and I'm totally fine with the excitement that comes with that. I quite enjoy it actually. But at meals, especially TS meals, there's no excuse for that behaviour just because it's Disney. I think the same rules should apply there like they would at any restaurant anywhere. But for some reason, people think because it's Disney (of course maybe they act like that anyway), it's all ok. It's not.

I couldn't have said it better, Rob.

But you can't complain about the view.

No complaints there at all.

Oh, I so love the light up walk ways. Just so freaking cool.

They really are!

I so want to stay at any of the Epcot resorts. I just love that area so much. But those freaky chairs in the lobby.

Those are freaky chairs (as is the pool), but I'm so glad we tried it last December and fell in love with the resort.

Excited for your DISmeet. And hey, I could still end up in a photo somewhere, lol.

You could...you never know.

That Scotch Egg looks interesting...and Fish and Chips-YUM!

I love the fish and chips there.

I'll have to remember that Winnie the Pooh meet and greet. I keep forgetting it's there!

It's very rarely crowded over there so an ideal spot.

Hope all is better with your family, you're in my thoughts!

Thanks, Jillian.

Ever since I have heard about the scotch egg it has been on my bucket list to try. One of these days I will get over to Rose and Crown and try one. Those fish and chips look very tasty.

It's a great restaurant.

Ugh.. just when I think I've got my ADRs decided for tomorrow.... Now you've got me thinking of adding in a Rose and Crown. poor DH is going to go crazy.

Sorry! But I know you made yours and got them all.

Nice view for dinner. Your fish and chips look yummy! I'll take a guess and say Mark's dish was the corned beef and cabbage with buttered beans.

Bingo! That's what it was!

I understand excitement in children, but I can't stand when parents are oblivious to their rambunctious kids.

Exactly; and I don't blame the kids, I blame the parents for NOT paying attention.

Hope your brother makes it home tomorrow and your mom is in my thoughts and prayers.

Well that didn't happen but, hopefully, soon.

Hugs Kathy! Lots of prayers for your brother and a speedy recovery! I'm thinking lots of good thoughts for your family!!

Thank you very much.

I'm sure you were sad to leave AKL! I can't imagine how nice it was to wake up to those lovely animals every day!

I was a bit, but was very happy with where we were going next.

Boardwalk looks nice although those sunflower chairs by the fireplace in the lobby are a bit creepy LOL!

No, they are a LOT creepy.

Mark looks so cute walking ahead with his backpack on! Just like a school boy!

I love it!

You had a wonderful table at the Rose and Crown. I hear you about kids running around.

Thanks, Pat. Seriously parents just need to pay attention.

Walking to EPCOT and DHS is why I own at BCV. I like the Boardwalk but for me the BCV fits. I like that parking is more convenient and the halls are not THAT long. It does need some updating and the halls are freezing for no reason but it is home for me, most of the time.

I'm debating between BCV and BWV for October...still undecided. The parking is better at BCV I would imagine. We did a lot of valet parking at BWD just not to put up with the headache.

I hope you get a wonderful room and love the walk over to DHS. ToT here you come!!!!!!

that will be an update or two with room pictures.

Still thinking about you and your family- so tough.

Thanks, Pat.

Kathy, you have been in my thoughts and prayers so much the past couple of days. Not only am I continuing to pray for your mother and your brother, but I am praying that God gives you the strength and peace that only He can give.

Thanks, Bob. It's been an exhausting two weeks.

 

[KatMark]

We love our friends from The Hundred Acre Wood! Already planning our next visit over Christmas!!!

They are my favorites.

I was so happy the rain held off even though we really need it. But then again that's why I love our California weather!!!

I've heard you guys are in desperate need of rain.

Sorry to hear about your brother and mom. Continued prayers for your family.

Thank you!

Other than the rowdy coughing child (UGH!!) your dinner looks lovely, that view is great! Mark sure looks happy with his choice of beverage!

It was the perfect spot and a great meal.

Ohhh the beautiful Boardwalk! Excited to see more of this.
Yayyyy for Hollywood Studios!

Soon...I promise.
------

I'm sorry to hear about your brother. I'm hoping that the cap takes care of the issue. Also I'm sorry that you may have to take time off work to care for your mother. Stay strong, your family is in my prayers!

Thanks, Wendy.

Sorry about the bad news on your brother. Sounds like you have a lot on your plate right now. It's a shame that you have to miss out on your dinner plans and take some unpaid time off of work. I just hope that they ultimately have found your brother's problem and he'll be able to return home soon.

We made up for it this weekend and we even went to the liquor store and got Mark's new favorite beer. Thanks, Andy.

Oh Damn Kathy i am so sorry...

Thanks, Mo.

I hope they get your brother back up and running soon.

Me too!

Just terrible about your mom. I am just so sorry your going through all this.

Thanks, Mo.

Please remember if you need anything please let me know.

I will!

GOOD LUCK on the job to Mark as i am sure he will be the best! they are closing my Target so i might as well drive the 2 hours to go by you guys...

That would be very silly of you, friend. He works Tuesday and Thursday next week and is very excited.

your always in my heart and prayers!

Thank you.

So sorry to hear about your brother Kathy. Continued prayers for him, and you, and hope he will recover soon from this set back.

Thanks, Chris.

Good Luck to Mark as he starts his new job. Always a scary and exciting time.

He's very excited...and a bit nervous.

And just take care of yourself. You have so much going on with your family, don't worry about replying to me. I know you have a big heart and are such a great person that it is more important that you keep yourself healthy for all those who need you at home.

It may take time, but I will always reply to my DIS friends. I got a good night's sleep last night...one of the best I've had in a couple of weeks.

Keeping you and yours in my thoughts.

Thank you so very much.

But I thought your meet with Tim was later.

he said it, I didn't Tim.

Whoa...going for the heavy stuff!

I was a bit surprised.

That looks really yummy.

He really likes it.

I think that might be the best benefit of all!

It really is.

Ugh. I'm sorry this has been such a rough stretch, and it doesn't sound like it's getting any easier. Do you need anything?

Just having all the good thoughts of my DIS friends is a huge help. Thanks, Mark.

First of all, I'm so sorry about your brother and the situation with your mother. I hope he has no other bleeding issues and can leave the hospital asap.

Thanks, Steph. It's still looking like Wednesday the last time I heard.

On to the TR update: I'm glad you enjoyed your meal and Mark liked his scotch flight, but too bad he didn't like his meal. The view was great too! And I hate people that let their children run amok like that and disrupt other guests.

The view was ideal.

Sorry to see AKL go, but you (and Mark!) got some great pictures of Boardwalk and the walk to DHS

Mark is getting much better with his picture taking.

 

[KatMark]

I'm so sorry about your brother having to stay in the hospital & about the situation with your mom. I hope your brother recovers quickly!

Thank you, April.

I just read your entire TR! I have to say that I agree about Olivia's being a hidden gem. I love that place! All of your photos are great- I can't wait to see more!

Isn't it? We try to go at least once every trip...even if not staying there.

Kathy, as I've told you, I've been praying for your family every since you posted about your mother and brother. For some reason, I woke up in the middle of the night and felt the need to pray for you and now I know why. You are a wonderful daughter to take off work and take care of your mother! Will continue to keep you all in my prayers.

Thanks, Lisa. It means a lot. It looks like I won't have to take off work, but we will keep that open just in case.

Kathy. I hope they figure out what is going on with your brother. Will Medicare pay for some home health care to relieve you guys? I would check with the Hospice folks.

I am told because she is under "hospice care" with a nurse coming out twice a week that medicare won't pay for anything else. But it seems, with luck, Bob will be home by midweek.

Good luck to Mark as he starts his new job!

He was there four hours yesterday for orientation and works Tuesday and Thursday this week.

Hang in there!

Jill in CO

Will do; thanks friend.

I'm sorry to hear that you had problems with the people sitting behind you at dinner ... I hate when parents don't seem to care about how their kids behave in public.

Me too!

I love the pictures of the animals and the pictures of Boardwalk. I'd probably never stay at Boardwalk (too close to home for me ... it's themed around Atlantic City, and I'm from NY ... if I want to see AC, I'll go to AC)

That's how I feel about the Wilderness Lodge and BLT. WL looks too much like the lodges in neighboring Wisconsin and BLT looks like any downtown Chicago building.

I'm sorry to hear that your brother isn't out of the hospital yet. I hope that everything goes well over the next few days and he can get out of there as soon as possible.

Hopefully Tuesday or Wednesday.

I hope everything works out okay with caring for your mom (isn't it great when people are inconvenienced because insurance won't cover the care their loved ones need?).

And you wonder why we pay for insurance!!!!

I'm still thinking of you guys and keeping you all in my prayers!

Thank you, Sarah.

Oh Kathy, I'm so sorry your family is suffering so.

Thanks, Sheree. It has to get better soon!

I hope you can find some help somehow. I'll keep your family in my prayers.

Thanks. Mark has been a godsend.

Ah crap if you wear a dress he will expect me to wear on as well

That's true. But then he'd have his two favorite ladies (after Minnie) in dresses.

XOXO - cannot wait until our 2 trips - you are in charge of the reports - but you have to finish this one first

Only if YOU post a few observations of your own!

Kathy- First I wanted to tell you how sorry I am to hear of all the health issues going on within your family and I am praying for everyone!

Thank you so much for the prayers.

I hadn't checked in since your last trip report but I'm glad to hear Mark has found a new job. Sounds like y'all are on the right track to retiring in Florida!

It seems to be the perfect fit for the 20 months until our hopeful move.

With band season over for now I think I can keep up with your current TR now. Sounds like a lot of fun so far. I'm missing the giraffes from our trip last year. With my DH being medically retired from the AF and starting a new job we won't be going back till exactly a year from today. I'll be living vicariously through others like you till then! Keep the great pictures and reports coming!

I am glad you are enjoying. Ahhh...we will miss you since this is November and you said a year and we will be going in October.

Great news!

Jill in CO

Thanks, Jill.

Kathy, I'm sorry you have been going through so much. I'm praying your brother is healing and the docs can figure out what he needs. I'm sorry you are needing to take time off, but I know you will make the precious moments count while you are there. I'm praying for peace and strength for you to get through these days

His blood level went down a bit last night, but not drastically. They are thinking more like Tuesday he will be able to come home. Mom is struggling a bit more, but hoping having Bob home will lift her spirits.


Nikki, the pic with your grandmother is such a sweet one. I'm glad you had the time to spend with her. Cutie - she probably wanted you to stop spending all your time with her.

I'm thinking that's what grandma was thinking too.

Now back to catch up.

Thanks for stopping in.

Glad to hear the good news! Just caught up, we arrived back late last night from Vegas. Had a great time but the dry air was horrible for Alexander . We have never tried R&C but it's on our bucket list. I really love Raglan Road still want to give that place a try. I love scotch eggs! Great pictures of the boardwalk, we've never stayed there but I've enjoyed the lobby. Location is so great for the two parks

Sent from my iPhone using DISBoards

Oh poor Alexander. I loved all the pictures you posted on FB. I need to get Raglan on the list for October if possible. Thanks...Mark did great on the photos.

Hi Kathy!!! Playing catch-up after a bit of a hiatus from the DIS thanks to the craziness of real life. I am so happy to see updates from you - I don’t know how you manage it with all that you have going on in your life right now.

Roni.

I am so in love with your view at AKL. :

I was in love with it too.

Awww - your pre-breakfast photo at 1900 turned out SO cute!!! And the pic with Pluto is just adorable!!

Thank you.

So much Epcot fun! What great FP+ selections - and, as usual, great hat pictures!

I was very pleased with how I planned our FP+.

Mmmm - the Rose and Crown dinner looks yummy, and I love the view out
there.

It really is yummy.

Oh, you moved to the one and only WDW resort at which Willow and I have actually stayed! we LOVE that place so much!!!! Isn’t that walk to DHS just so peaceful and pleasant? I missed it the last time we stayed there - Willow had graduated from using a stroller, but it was just too much to ask for her to do that walk and then walk all over the park too. We had to stick with the boats.

Boardwalk was a place I thought we'd never stay, and it has become a top three choice! The walk is wonderful, and peaceful as you said. Yes, I imagine that would be a bit much walking for Willow. But I bet she can handle it now.

Kathy, still praying for your brother to get out of the hospital very soon and continue to pray comfort for your mother. I'm also praying strength and encouragement for you and Mark; I know it has been such a tough season for you and at times it has worn you down, but I believe better days are ahead for you.

Thanks, Bob. I hope so. I want to start enjoying the holiday season and get my Christmas baking started.

Good luck to Mark as he starts his new job. I'm sure he is going to do great and find favor with those he works for and around.

I'm going to love the discount. We get 5% with the red card and another 10% on top of that with him as an employee.

Love the pics from the Rose & Crown. R&C is always one of those restaurants that have been on our bucket list to go to but just never seem to do it. I'm going to have to change that very soon. If for no other reason but to try the Scotch egg; that thing looks awesome.

I really think you and Carol would enjoy it.

Sorry to hear your experience was somewhat diminished by some unattended children. I love children, but I sure hate being around them when they are out of control and the parents do nothing to bring them under control. We actually had a situation once where we were at the Coral Reef a few years ago and had a seat right next to the tank. While eating, a child around 10 or so sat right on our table and took a picture. Her parents found nothing wrong with her placing her hynie on our table while eating and even found it to be humorous.

Seriously, I would have gotten up and slapped that kids parents!

I'm looking forward to your pictures of the Boardwalk Villa's. I love the location and the decor of this resort. I agree with the F & W festival it is a great location. Here very soon Carolyn and I will have to make plans on staying there; We have even discussed buying DVC points for this resort... But not so fast just yet for us, we just bought into the Villas at the Grand Floridian.

I would love to buy at the BWV.

Lastly, I cannot wait to read about the DIS meet you have waited for years to experience. I love, love, love DIS meets and finally putting faces to the user names we have known for some time.

It was one I had waited what seemed forever for and it was worth it.

 

[KatMark]

We had arrived at the Studios. Now most of you know this is our least favorite park at Disney, but for this trip we were really looking forward to this day as we were meeting some very special friends.

Before entering the park, we stopped for a photo opportunity too hard to pass up:



And then it was this:







We arrived and saw this which may very well be gone on my next visit...and, in truth, I will NOT miss it:



We stopped for another photopass opportunity







We took our time and walked over towards the Toy Story area where we were having our DIS meet. We were a bit early so I grabbed a coffee at the coffee stand and got Nicki her Toy Story Mania mug.

Soon, we saw some people walking towards us and the leader of the pack was trying to hide behind his Olaf stick, but I knew who it was.

After years of friendship here on the DIS, I was finally meeting Tim (that's nice) and his family. Tim was one of the first, if not THE first person on the DIS that I became true friends with. Of course, everyone on FB was waiting for this DIS meet to happen and I had to post a picture as soon as possible.



And we had Princess Juliana photobomb our picture. It was perfect!



We got introduced to the rest of the family and got the kids used to us and gave them the gifts we had brought them. Soon it was time for our first FP+ selection that we were riding together:











We finished our ride and the Green Men were out so the kids stopped for a photo op with Dad and Grandma



It was then time for our next FP+ selection.



Gabby was still being shy with me



And then we were here



Obviously, Christopher and Gabby were too small to ride, so Mark offered to stay behind while the rest of us rode









Continued in next post

 

[KatMark]

It wasn't long at all and we were getting in our elevator and having the ride of our lives (I'm not sure Grandma cared for it all that much)

Redneck photo



PP photo



We tried to catch the Frozen parade that was going on but we were too late for it. At this time, we split up with Tim and family as they had things they were doing and Mark and I would be spending the next morning with them.

Mark and I were hungry, so we stopped at Starring Rolls to grab some lunch. Loved these cupcakes in the case



Our lunch, which we shared



We really like the offerings at Starring Rolls.

My Olaf sticks...I do love Olaf





We walked over to our next DIS meet. Wendy texted me that they were in line for The Great Movie Ride and it was a little longer than the posted wait time. I told her to take their time and we would wait for them outside the entrance of Star Tours which we would be riding together.

Soon they arrived and hugs were exchanged and we got in the FP line to ride Star Tours







We had a great ride and then we all looked around in the gift shop. Mark had to have his first hat photo of the day



We then went outside and talked with Wendy and Johnny a bit more before we had to split up. They were with family and they were all getting hungry and we had some things we wanted to do and a FP+ to use so it was time to say goodbye. But not before we got a photo...because without a photo, it didn't happen.





If you ever have the good fortune to be at Disney at the same time as Wendy and Johnny (teekathepony here on the DIS), be sure to say hello. What sweet, fun and warm people. Wendy and Johnny, I'm sorry we didn't have more time together, but we certainly enjoyed the short time we had with you. We are hoping very much to have another opportunity to meet up at our happy place. Thank you for spending time with us.

After we left Wendy and Johnny, we headed here











Mark's favorite

















Continued in next post

 

[KatMark]

More pictures from The Great Movie Ride











Before we headed to our next stop, we stopped by the Stage and saw some of the show





And then it was on to our destination. This was for Mark and Mark alone...I don't do it anymore



And how did Mark like it?



When Mark met me, I saw that TOT was 10 minutes and he told me to go for it, so off I went

















Up next, some shopping and a Sing-Along

 

[disneygirlll]

Aww, leaving AKL so soon? OK, not so bad since you are checking into the Boardwalk!

Cute Pooh and Tigger pics.

I’ve never heard of a Scotch Egg. Looks like a breaded boiled egg, fried? Interesting

So awesome to be able to walk to 2 theme parks from your resort!

Amazing that you got to meet Tim and his family after knowing him for so long here.

Cute photo bomb pic!

Love me some RRC and TOT.

 

[eandesmom]

What a fun meet day, way to it into a pretty special day, despite it not being your favorite park. Love all the pictures, the frozen ones are especially cute and Juliana with the photobomb is just adorable!

All folks I'd love to meet some day and I am not surprised it was so much fun.

Great update.

 

[ValarDisneyus]

Awww, for it not being your favorite day, you all sure do look like you're having fun! And meeting thatsnice and teekathepony! How fun! <3

I think of all the TRs I follow, I'm most scared of not keeping up with this one. All the pictures are so fun and it moves so fast! I'm really glad this trip convinced you two to visit some more anyway, because I sure do love the stories.

 

[LuvvsMickey]

Oh man, I am so behind. I had to skim. Kathy, when it rains it pours, no? Our lives are similar in so many ways. God love you, my friend. Prayers for your mom, brother, and the rest of you for peace, calm and strength to deal with all of this. If I've learned anything from the past two weeks at all... please take some time for yourself and scream, yell, cry your eyes out, hate the world, jump up and down, whatever you need to do and then have a nice hot bath and just relax for a bit and breathe. Better yet, get a massage, just because. Giant hugs to you. We are lucky to have the special men in our lives that we do. ♥ Must be the name.

Looking at your pictures brought a smile to my face. I so miss Mickey and my happy place. God willing, I will get there next year one way or another! You never disappoint with your updates and I thank you. I love you, pretty lady. I'm thrilled that you get to see Nicki twice next year. Nothing like a hug from your best friend to make it all better. Praying for you. Always.

 

[Gracefulskinny]

A fun morning at the studios.

I think I am sad to see the Hat go. I think I was in the minority. I liked it.

What fun to ride some rides with friends.