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

[that's nice]

I'm sorry I haven't updated. It's been hectic going to work, coming to mom's until caregiver comes, etc.

Thank you all for the prayers and good wishes.

We thought we made a turn for the better when they got rid of one of two blood clots and Bob came off breathing tube. However, today he started bleeding internally in his back and they don't know why and he is in terrible pain. They are giving him blood transfusions and are working hard to figure out what is going on.

Take your time.. no rush back. Take care of your family.

Hopefully today will be better than yesterday.

 

[mickeystoontown]

Continuing to pray for you all Kathy. Saying a specific prayer that they find out what is causing the bleeding.

 

[EstherS]

Prayers for you and your family, wondered why you were a little quiet on fb.

 

[stacy~**]

I will be thinking of you and your family.

How exciting to have your trips mapped out for the coming year....and have two of them being Disney trips!

Love the PP picture in front of Under the Sea. We got that last trip too and I am surprised at how much I really like that backdrop! Its one of my favorites from our whole trip.

Thanks for sharing the Mine Train video. I hadn't seen one yet. It was super cute.

LOL at the early ADR after EMH. It doesn't seem like such a bad idea at home when you make the ADRs. Sorry Mary Poppins was a no show. What a bummer.

Really happy to see your AKV pool pictures. It looks really fun! We are currently trying to close a resale DVC contract and I am hoping we can start our trip with a few days at AKV this summer if all goes well. Great to see all of your pictures.

 

[KatMark]

I caught up on all of my TR's on my iPhone on the train ride home and while at mom's. I'm pooped now and going to bed. If work is quiet tomorrow...which it should be...I plan to do all my responses and hopefully an update tomorrow.

Thanks for all the prayers, good wishes and for sticking with me. Goodnight.

 

[ValarDisneyus]

Aww, we all love you as much as Internet strangers can. Your lovely heart comes through your TRs really well.

I wish I could help you in some way, even if it was just fetching you coffee and mowing your lawn. If you need anything an Internet stranger can accomplish, just speak up and I'll do my best. I'll send a balloon if you like.

 

[MissMaryQC]

We're in for the long haul Kathy! Take your time with responses and updates; I know I love seeing both but it's far from the most important thing. Sending you good vibes, as always :

 

[Chicago Mo]

always

 

[KatMark]

I'm sorry that 1900PF was only so-so, especially considering Mark wasn't too excited for it. It really bugs me when characters aren't interactive with parties of adults. I mean, if I'm going to a character meal without a child, wouldn't it be assumed that I like the character interaction? Maybe that's just me!

We usually have no problems with the characters being just two adults; this time it was just a tad off.

AKL looks so cool! I mean all those giraffes just outside your door! I especially love the shot of the giraffes hugging on each other, very cute.

Wasn't that just adorable? They stayed like that for a good five minutes...loved it.

What a view to wake up to!!!!!!!! Gorgeous!

It truly was.

Not so much fun to have to wake up so early. But don't you worry, Kathy, I am sure there are plenty of us out there who have made that mistake of an early breakfast after EMHs before. Tom and I have definitely learned from our mistakes.

I'm usually pretty good about that. Trust me, Mark will make sure I don't let it happen again.

Food looks pretty nice and the characters too.

Food wasn't bad, just think Crystal Palace is better and more vareity.

Love your photos around the pool area. We have been to AKL quite a few times, but never really ventured around the grounds or up to the pool.

It's a great pool!

Those animals. What an amazing view. I've never seen that many in my three Savannah view stays. WOW! (I was in Jambo though - wonder if that made a difference??) Dunno.

Hmmmm...I'm not sure as we've never stayed in Jambo House.

We haven't tried that restaurant but am with you, nothing beats Crystal Palace. Hey! I see the date of this installment... you better have had a drink or three for me because I certainly needed them.

Oh I think I may have remember something about that day.....

Waking up to animals and sun? Wow! Who knew that was possible?

Ain't that the truth?

Sorry your breakfast at PF wasn't great. We haven't been there since the crazy Hatter incident. I keep saying we need to get back but it never happens.

It's hard getting your group up for breakfast I imagine.

The pool at Kidani looks really cool! Can't wait to try that out someday!

Well, now that you are DVC, you should stay there more nights. Ana would love the slide.

WOW there are a ton of GREAT updates here! Not a GF fan either. like you it's just too stuffy. But Suzi stayed there said it wasn't like that.

It's just not my style. But we may try it for two nights one trip because Mark REALLY likes the Dumbo bed.

I'm still not convinced... BUT i will say we had a WONDERFUL dinner there with the step sisters! The step Mother was better...

We've never done dinner. Nicki hated it there and she has never led me wrong. But I know Mark would love the interaction with the stepsisters.

Your pictures are GREAT!!! Love the new camera!

Thanks; I'm really impressed with my new zoom.

Good Job on doing midnight on EMH! YES YES THE MINE TRAIN! just an adorable ride!! we are big fans!

I usually can make it, but Mark can't. He did good this trip. I love the MINE TRAIN too.

Ohh It's so fun to come back and see the animals outside! and every time your giraffe's are waiting for you!

I loved the littlest one...he/she was so cute.

Love Mark's face with the crowds. crazy people get out of YOUR WAY! don't they know who you are?!?!

Just give me my darn space!

Love the plans for next year glad you get go back and with Nikki!!!

Thanks, Mo. I do too. And the May trip plans have changed a bit...but I'll save that if I do a PTR.

Loving that view still! So sad you'll be leaving it soon, but I'm sure you enjoyed BC too!

It really was hard to leave that view, but we really like the Boardwalk so it made it a tad easier.

I agree with Mark on GF! I think it's a pretty resort, but it's so stuffy that I could never stay there. I will visit there in December to see the Christmas decorations, but that is it.

You must see the Christmas decorations there...so beautiful.

What a bummer that the breakfast turned out just okay! The food looked good though and you and Mark looked so cute w/ Pooh & Tigger! I loved all the pics of the animals!

K

Food was decent...nothing special. Pooh and Tiggers are favorites. We were so fortunate with lots of animals this trip.

Looks like a decent breakfast...but to be perfectly honest, with that view at AKL and the beautiful pool area there, I'd be hard-pressed to head all the way over to GF!!

Julie, that's it...decent! It did the trick and filled us up until dinner time. I think next time we will just eat at Boma...I can get back to my room faster.

Wow, had I fallen behind!! Either that or you have been a Mad Updater!!

I was for awhile...and then I fell off because of the family thing.

You had an awesome EMH night at the MK. Love to be there late at night and wander and listen to the music and enjoy the sights and shorter lines.

The music and lights just make it more magical to me.

You had the most AMAZING location for animal sightings at AKL. It is great fun to see them outside the balcony each time you look. And the pool at the villas area is really nice.

We really did. I could not have asked for a better spot.

You are doing really well with photos on a new camera that you hadn't messed with much before leaving.

Thanks, Linda.

And that pic of Mark with the "fur" on his head is still cracking me up!

The man is a total nut.

Looks like a nice breakfast, but I am with you both on the GF train of thought. Too stuffy for me. I'm more a Beach Club/AKL kind of gal. (my wallet is more a Pop Century wallet most of the time, though- ) Must wait for a really nice discount to move up in the categories.

I agree; and we are AKL/Boardwalk (although we MIGHT give the Beach Club another try in October).

Very awesome that you get to spend more vacation time away this next year! Enjoy every minute! Life is too short!

It truly is and I want to make the most of it!

 

[Chicago Mo]

​

Just know your still in my prayers but wanted to wish you a happy Halloween!!!

 

[KatMark]

No. I've tried coffee a few times, but I don't think I've ever choked down a whole cup of it.

You sound like my kids. With both Mark and I big coffee drinkers and my dad was too, the kids hate it.

You guys really made the most of your evening in MK! Well done!!! I can't wait to see the mine ride. It is a shame that it is so short though. That seems to be the biggest knock that anyone has against it!

We did pretty good, Andy. I think that has been the biggest knock.

The breakfast looks nice, but I'm sorry you missed out on Mary Poppins. I totally agree with Mark about the GF. I just never get that warm, fuzzy "welcome" feeling that you have from basically every other Disney resort when I walk into that place.

Nope...never a warm, fuzzy feeling. More of a "don't touch that" feeling.

The pool at Kidani is one of my favorites. I remember being there and having this overall feeling of relaxation. Heaven.

Sheresa, isn't it great? I've not used it as much as Mark (I can never tear myself away from my giraffes), but it is a nice, relaxing pool.

I'm disappointed for you that 1900 Park Fare wasn't that great. We did make an ADR for dinner in April, and I've heard great things about it. We shall see.

I'll be curious to hear what you think of dinner since I want to try it with Mark for the stepsisters.

You guys are serious troopers for making it to midnight on EMH. I'm lucky to make it to park closing typically! My DH, on the other hand, would go for EMH. I have a feeling he will have a partner in crime with Madelyn. In a couple of years he'll be trying to keep up with her!

It helps that we take rests in the afternoon on those EMH days. Oh I am sure Miss Madelyn will keep daddy hopping for sure.

The Grand Floridian looks gorgeous in pictures. I'm glad to hear of "standard upright folk"'s opinion, though, because I'd be bummed out if I felt like I had to be Miss Priss every day on my vacation. While I love some fancy, me, it's something that I like in doses. I'm quite comfortable in tee shirts and jeans I found on a two for one sale. I thought about maybe saving up A LOT to stay there one day, because I thought it seemed awfully fun to be able to dine with the characters and see them in your resort all the time, but....maybe it's sufficient to just get ADRs for all that and when we reserve resorts, reserve more budget for other fun experiences.

Amanda, one of Mark's only demands is that he NOT have to dress up on vacation. He would feel, if we stayed there, that he couldn't wear his blue jean shorts, etc. The best the man gets dressed up is khaki shorts and a nice shirt for dinner at Yachtsman. I know him...he'd rather eat at Yachtsman.

ON TIGGER: Okay, I know I haven't seen him in the flesh (fur?) yet, but every photo I've seen of him in TRs...he looks like he's SO NEON. Like Tigger comes around to the world for park hours but spends his nights glowing away under black lights at a rave. I always thought he'd do for a nice standard orange, or better yet, a kind of muted pumpkin. Perhaps I'm wrong though, maybe his fur is just super photogenic and tries to gleam under camera flash light. I'm still sorry they didn't talk to you much, though.

It does look like that at times. I wonder if we just catch the ones with the "newer" clothes. Tigger and Pooh were great; we just expected a little more out of Alice and Mad Hatter.

I wish our trips overlapped in May, I'm going to reserve the stepsister dinner with Aria in the pink Cinderella dress that they hate in the movie, I wish we could have a DIS meet at the same time! Oh well, I promise to take many many photos of it.

I'm sorry we are missing too. I forgot when you arrived. I did make a slight change...I now don't fly home until Sunday, Mother's Day. I can't wait to hear about your dinner.

Also: SQUEE! Giraffe buddies!

Aren't they adorable?

Sorry that 1900 PF wasn't that great for you - especially a bummer that Marry Poppins wasn't there that day. I've read of some good interactions with Alice and the Mad Hatter (even for adults only) but perhaps they were off a bit that day.

I'm guessing they were a bit off myself (perhaps they caught whatever Mary Poppins had).

We feel the same way as Mark does about the GF - but I have to say I have read several TR of people that have stayed there and were worried about it feeling to stuffy and that they didn't get that sense ... maybe different if you are staying there though vs just stopping by. Only place we have eaten there is at Victoria & Alberts and we were dressed up for that.

I know of others too who have stayed and not found it that way. I may bend and try it for two nights one trip for the Dumbo bed.

The pool area there looks really fun! Love the splash area with the buckets - think my kids would love it!

I remember the year that we stayed there with Mary, the girls and the rest of their family. The girls had a blast over in that area.

And love the animal pictures from your balcony - some great Giraffe shots!

Thanks, Phil.

What I beautiful view to see first thing in the morning.

Isn't it, Sarah?

We have a 1900 Park Fare breakfast planned for our upcoming trip, so I was interested to read your review. I'm sorry to hear it was just okay ... and I can't believe Mary Poppins wasn't there! (If she's not there when I go, I'll be super sad ... like you, she's the reason we picked this meal). I hate when characters don't interact as mucuh with adults (I've had that a few times)... adults can love characters too!

I was disappointed too, but we luckily saw her later in the trip. The food wasn't bad at all...just nothing special.

I love all the pictures of the resort - looks like it's really beautful!

Thank you so much.

You seriously had the best view from your balcony!!

Sarah, we truly did. I couldn't have asked for a better spot.

That is too bad that Mary Poppins was sick that day and you missed her! That Alice looked exactly like I think Alice should look - it's too bad her interactions were nothing special.

She was a really cute Alice.

Was your opinion of the Grand Floridian any more favorable this time around?

Not really; it's just not our style. We are more "beach" people or "animal" people.

I used to wonder whether or not I'd want to stay at the Grand Floridian (not that I'll ever have enough money to stay there for two weeks but in my daydreams, I wondered.) and if I'd feel out of place there. I'm betting that I'd suffer through it.

Lisa, I'm sure you would. And I might just do it for Mark for the Dumbo room.

Loved all of the pictures of you two with the characters at 1900 Park Fare. It's too bad that Mary Poppins was ill and couldn't make it. At least you can now say that you've tried it and stick with breakfast at Crystal Palace.

Yes, definitely sticking with CP for my character breakfast from now on (although I still want to try to get into the Castle one year).

Yay for your 2015 trips Kathy
As for GF, you know I love GF. My DH gets whatever is the complete opposite of warm and fuzzy when he goes there. I didn't know tigger and pooh were at the breakfast there...shame on me. We ate there quite some years ago, before we ever stayed there and remember it being just okay. I'd take GF cafe anyday

I'm so excited for two trips with Nicki and Todd. I really want to try the GF cafe (I've cancelled it the last three years in a row).

 

[KatMark]

Enjoyed reading and seeing pics of your meals at Olivia’s and 1900 PF. Haven’t tried either. That’s what I love about trip reports. Getting a feel of the parts of Disney that I have not experienced yet.

I can highly recommend Olivia's...it is a top five for us.


I also liked the fall décor at MK. Last month was our first fall trip. (I think it’s my new favorite time to go. The nice weather and low crowds.) You posted a very nice variety of MK pics! And yay! for sticking out EMH.

It really is beautiful at that time of the year. Thanks!

Seems like a fun breakfast. What a bummer Mary wasn't there though. DH feels the same way about GF and has stated that he would really never want to stay there.

I think it is more of a "man" thing, but it certainly isn't high on my list.

What wonderful pictures you got of the animals.

Thank you.

I missed your update last night. Sorry the breakfast was so so. I've never done Park Faire just because it never really appealed..too bad Mary wasn't there!

No worries, Jill. I've missed a lot this week. We missed Mary, but got to see her later.

I just love the animals at AKV!

Jill in CO

Me too; you just can't beat waking up to that every morning.

Yay for making it for EMH's!!! I'm glad Mark liked Mine Ride, it was really fun but I agree- too short.

I'm glad he liked it too, Lauren.

I love love love the view from the balcony. That would be amazing to wake up to in the mornings!

It certainly is, and I hope you get to do it one day.

I know I went to 1900 Park Fare in the past but I don't really remember it. I do love the GF though. I think Crystal Palace would be my favorite breakfast restaurant for sure, especially after this trip!

Crystal Palace just has that something special...I can't put my finger on it. It could be the puffed french toast.

Other than waking up and seeing the castle, I can't imagine a better view to wake up to than a beautiful giraffe.

I agree 100% with you Rob.

Wow, I'm kind of surprised (and saddened) at the lack of CM friendliness previously at the GF. I know many people feel out of place, but had never heard the CM's almost reinforcing that.

It wasn't a pleasant situation at all...this was when it first opened.

Glad your breakfast was at least good, but I agree. I think dining with the Stepsisters would be so much fun.

I have to agree, and definitely think I'll put it on the schedule...maybe in October.

Sorry to hear this Kathy. Continued prayers for your family.

Thanks, Andy.

Kathy, I have had your family on my prayer list and will continue to pray for you all. Hugs!

Thank you, Lisa.

Wow, so sorry to hear. I'll keep you guys in my thoughts and prayers and I hope your brother gets better soon!

Thanks, Sarah.

If all the prayers and good vibes will help, the DIS has your back. God love you honey. I cannot imagine all that you are going through. Thank goodness for Mark, and I will keep you in my thoughts.

Thank you, Sheresa. My DIS friends are the best.

I'm so very sorry, Kathy. You are in my heart and prayers.

Thank you my pickle friend.

Oh my goodness. I've been quietly reading your trip report (it's very good, btw....I came to it a bit late) and I just cannot believe how much you and your family are going through right now. Sending good thoughts your way.

Thank you for posting to offer us good thoughts. I truly appreciate that.

Kathy I'm finally caught up again on your TR.

You have really been in my thoughts lately with everything that has been going on with your family.

Thanks, Ariana.

Kathy, I am so sorry you are dealing with all of this. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Thank you Sarah.

Oh, Kathy. I hope everything works out soon. <3

Thanks, Amanda.

Oh Karhy! I am so sorry! Many many continued prayers for you and your family!!

Thanks, Karli.

 

[KatMark]

many many hugs and prayers your way

Thanks, Lauren.

Oh gosh Kathy - so sorry for this latest news ... though very glad your husband found him and was able to take care of things.

Thanks, Phil.

Definitely will be praying for all of you ... when it rains it pours sometimes. You definitely deserve about a year of good news!

I'll settle for no drama.

Kathy, so very sorry to hear about your brother. We'll continue to keep your family in our prayers.

Claire, thank you for stopping in and sending us your prayers.

I am so sorry to hear about your brother, Kathy! You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

Thanks, Karin.

I'm so sorry Kathy, you've had lots of rotten family health issues lately. You do have a fantastic husband to help you with it all!

Thanks, Stephanie.

Oof I'm so sorry about everything going on with your family! You are Mark are so lucky to have each other. I'll continue to keep you guys in my thoughts and send positive vibes!

Maddie, thank you very much.

Your 7dmt video is the first ride video I have seen (I'm so homesick and have only been on the dis to keep up on my TRs!) and it's so cute!! I didn't think it would be as cute as it is, but I really like it. What a fun thing to have.

Isn't it cute? I love it.

Sorry that Mary Poppins was out sick! Why didnt someone get her a spoon full of sugar?!

Ain't that the truth!

Kathy, I am so so sorry to hear about this latest event with your brother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Thanks, Bob; I appreciate it.

Man, I seem to get so far behind so quickly! Kathy, you have TOO MANY FRIENDS!

Do what I do...skip the chatter most of the time.

You guys did so many things during your EMH's! You definitely used that extra time to its full potential! And CONGRATULATIONS on beating Mark at Buzz Lightyear!!! I am just not good at video games...at all. And since that is one of DH's hobbies I will NEVER beat him at something like that... But boy, if I ever did...I would probably never play again just so I could keep bragging rights.

I was very impressed with what we got done. It was so fun to finally beat Mark. And trust me, I did not let him hear the end of it.

And then speaking of using something to its full potential...you just got some of the most fabulous animal photos from your balcony!! That room with the nice view did not go to waste on your watch!

Aren't they great? It's so hard to tear me away from that balcony.

Um, looking at your plate pictures from breakfast...might you have food touching issues? I recognize the carefully divided portions. I have two folks in my house with those issues (not the younger children, mind you, and not me) ...so we use divided plates for dinner every night!

I could. I cringe when my son puts his mashed potatos on top of his meat and then mixes in his corn.

Still praying for your mom, brother and the rest of your family, Kathy!

Thank you, Connie.

Sorry about what your Mom is going through. I know it all too well with my father as he had cancer.

Thanks, Scott. I went through this with my dad too.

Food looked good at Kona. Look at that naughtiness going at Disney in that picture. Get a room. LOL.

You must try Kona if you haven't. I had a room...just at a different resort!

Love Olivia's. Now I want Shrimp & Grits. LOL.

It's a great restaurant.

Love taking the ferry over to MK.

I much prefer it over the monorail.

Love the dole whip floats. YUM!. I very rarely stop fro one though.

Not a fan, but I know they are very popular.

Seems like you are doing a lot this night.

We got a lot accomplished.

Nice castle and fireworks pics.

Thank you!

The dark faces would be because of a flash, I would think.

I can't remember if I had the flash on or not.


Nice PP pics.

Thanks again.

Love 1900 PF for breakfast.

It was just okay; I think we will stick with CP.

Sorry to hear of your brother. Glad Mark was there and he is a keeper.

He certainly is a keeper!

So sorry to hear about your family! I will certainly keep y'all in our prayers.

Thank you very much.

 

[KatMark]

So sorry about your brother. Hope everything works out ok for him. Sending prayers and pixie dust

Thanks my overseas friend.

You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please take care of yourself while you take care of your family, and we will be here when you come back.

Thank you (I've missed you).

Coffee is definitely needed for EMH at night. Thank you Starbucks!

Danielle, so glad they finally got real coffee at the parks.

While I do like Dole Whips, I think there are many more tasty treats out there to eat. And I do not believe they are worth the wait that sometimes generates for them!

I think a Cronut is one of those tasty treats.

The backside of water!

Never saw that before, did ya?

So are we going to take a trip together in 2016?

I would love to take a trip with you in 2016!

Did you use a flash when you took the pictures in the Mine Train? That would be the only explanation I would have for the blacked out faces. If not....then I have no idea.

I truly can't remember. Old age is not nice!

My Pop used to hate the GF! He thought they were all snooty too. Now he loves it. But then again, he has become a bit of a snob lately, so that might explain why.

I cannot imagine Popadon being a snob!

1900 Park Fare used to be my favorite breakfast. It was somewhat disappointing the last time we ate breakfast there. Dinner is pretty good, the stepsisters are the entire reason to go there.

That's it...we are going to try dinner.

We spent sooooo much time at that pool on the trip in July 2013 with the nephews. We just loved it.

You must have pool time...it really helps to relax a bit.

I'm continuing to keep you guys in our prayers.

Thank you my friend.

Oh Kathy! I'm so sorry to read this. I may not post but I do follow. We lost my grandma 11 years ago to lung cancer so I understand the pain your going through right now. Prayers that things work out.

Thank you so much for stopping in to send us prayers. We truly appreciate it.

Kathy, I am so so sorry to hear about your brother. I'll continue to keep your family in my thoughts! Mark sure is a keeper, bless him.

Thanks, Wendy. Mark is the best!

Kathy,

I am so sorry to hear this news. You and your family are continually in my thoughts and prayers.

Thank you Casey.

So sorry to hear about your brother. Your family is in my prayers.

Thanks, Darla.

oh Kathy I'm so sorry it is just too much for one family hoping they can get your brother stabilized. Continually praying for you Mark your Mom and sweet Alisha

Thank you, Jeanette.

 

[KatMark]

And here I thought you were a professional.

Sssssh...

I agree. It gives me the same vibe.

To me it just has a "cold" feeling.

Well, at least you gave it a shot. And they had tater tots. It can't be all bad if they have tater tots.

LOVE tater tots.

Kathy, I'm sorry to hear the news about your brother. When it rains, it pours! Praying they can take care of him and the blood clot. I'm sorry things are so rough right now.

Thanks, Mark.

Kathy- I just stumbled upon your TR and read the whole thing so far! I've loved your past reports.

and thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed them.

I'm so sorry to hear about all that you and your family are going through. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. I'll be thinking of you!!!

Hugs, Lauren

Thanks very much, Lauren...it means a lot.

Sorry to hear the latest about your brother. Hope they figure out what is going on with him.

Jill in CO

Thanks, Jill.

My gosh Kathy, when it rains it pours for you. I will keep your brother in my prayers as well.

Thanks, Jen. It's been a very rough week.

I can't believe you guys have never eaten at the GF before. It is too bad that Mary Poppins wasn't there. She is a favorite of ours as well.
We always find the servers at 1900 PF slow and it takes forever to get our check too. But we love the characters. The steps at dinner are a lot of fun.

Nope, never before (there are actually SEVERAL restaurants we've never eaten at and some that we never will). I don't know why they are slow. They must know they have others waiting to be seated...it's a character meal afterall. I definitely am going to plan dinner.

Kathy I am so sorry to hear your brother is ill. You have your plate full for sure. Continued prayers.

Sent from my iPhone using DISBoards

Thank you, Lori (love the halloween costume on the little guy).

I'm so sorry about your brother. *Hugs from Canada*.

Thanks, Laura, for the hugs from Canada.

Completely sympathize with the early ADRs and and the late EMH. I made an early rezzie at Grand Floridian Cafe (7:30 am). It was painful getting up that morning.

Yes, I won't make that mistake again.

Kathy and Mark,

I have read many of your trip reports and find them most enjoyable. I know I don't post a lot but I do love reading about your trips, and seeing Mark's hat photos.

Chris. Mark aims to please.

But I do want to say that I am so sorry to hear about the health issues you are having in your family. I know how hard it can all be. Please know that I am sending good wishes and prayers to you and your entire family. And hope that you will be able to find peace and comfort during this difficult time with the many good memories you have had over the years together. Take care.

Thank you very much. It means a lot.

Where in Iowa are you? Our youngest lives in Dubuque with his wife.

Take your time.. no rush back. Take care of your family.

Thanks, Tim.

Hopefully today will be better than yesterday.

It is getting better.

Continuing to pray for you all Kathy. Saying a specific prayer that they find out what is causing the bleeding.

Thanks, Lisa.

Prayers for you and your family, wondered why you were a little quiet on fb.

Thanks, Esther. I've just been too exhausted to do much of anything and I don't get Wi-Fi at mom's.

I will be thinking of you and your family.

Thank you Stacy.

How exciting to have your trips mapped out for the coming year....and have two of them being Disney trips!

Funny how no trips to Disney turned into two.

Love the PP picture in front of Under the Sea. We got that last trip too and I am surprised at how much I really like that backdrop! Its one of my favorites from our whole trip.

I think it is a great spot!

Thanks for sharing the Mine Train video. I hadn't seen one yet. It was super cute.

I'm glad they added that and hope they add it to other rides.

LOL at the early ADR after EMH. It doesn't seem like such a bad idea at home when you make the ADRs. Sorry Mary Poppins was a no show. What a bummer.

No, it always sounds perfect at home!

Really happy to see your AKV pool pictures. It looks really fun! We are currently trying to close a resale DVC contract and I am hoping we can start our trip with a few days at AKV this summer if all goes well. Great to see all of your pictures.

I hope to do a resale in a few years. I would love to own our own and then let our kids use it. I hope you get your contract done and can stay at AKV...we love it there.

 

[DWGal210]

I loved the Peoplemover picture - I CANNOT believe I didn't get on that this last trip. Grrr.

Sorry to hear 1900 wasn't great. I would say that's my least favorite character meal I've had; I agree that CP is the best.

I'll continue to pray for your family; we're here for you.

 

[KatMark]

Aww, we all love you as much as Internet strangers can. Your lovely heart comes through your TRs really well.

Thanks, Amanda.

I wish I could help you in some way, even if it was just fetching you coffee and mowing your lawn. If you need anything an Internet stranger can accomplish, just speak up and I'll do my best. I'll send a balloon if you like.

You are very sweet. Just knowing that you offered is huge!

We're in for the long haul Kathy! Take your time with responses and updates; I know I love seeing both but it's far from the most important thing. Sending you good vibes, as always :

Thank you, dear. I think doing an update will lift my spirts a bit (and I can't wait forever...I'm already forgetting things ).

always

Thank you, Mo!

​

Just know your still in my prayers but wanted to wish you a happy Halloween!!!

Thanks, Mo. Happy Halloween to you and munchkins.

I loved the Peoplemover picture - I CANNOT believe I didn't get on that this last trip. Grrr.

Seriously? One must NEVER miss the Peoplemover.

Sorry to hear 1900 wasn't great. I would say that's my least favorite character meal I've had; I agree that CP is the best.

I'm with you all the way.

I'll continue to pray for your family; we're here for you.

Thanks, Katie.

 

[KatMark]

It's time for an update...personal and Disney.

My mother is doing okay. She's coughing a bit more, but she is still getting around and was actually pretty crabby yesterday. Mark sent me home at 8:30 as I don't know if I'm getting another cold or just overtired. He waited for the caregiver to come and then he came home. I am taking that man out for a steak dinner a week from tonight Friday for all he has done for my family and me and because he starts his new job a week from tomorrow.

Bob is better today. Kidneys, heart and lung are good. He was "not" bleeding in the back. He was losing blood, but they could not find any internal bleeding (he was kind of out of it when he told me that, and depressed). They put an "umbrella" in his stomach to catch blood if need be. His count is up; it's not great, but it has improved after four transfusions. They are moving him out of CICU today to a regular room and will monitor him all weekend. If his blood count keeps rising, they will send him home on Monday. He is talking to a caseworker and they will have someone come out for four hours every day to be sure he is doing okay and to help with mom.

We have a caregiver tonight to spend the night with Mom and then I will spend tomorrow night there and Mark will spend Sunday night. Hopefully I won't have to hire one after tonight's.

So, how about some happy stuff and an update.

I left you off with Mark at the pool and me doing some laundry. Before we left for our park for the evening, I got these cute zebra pics





And an ostrich







Then we hopped in the car and drove here





We stopped for a few photopass pictures





We saw the line for Pluto wasn't too long and we rarely get to see him









This next picture is one of my favorite's of the entire trip



After visiting Pluto, we stopped to get a drink before our first FP+ selection



While enjoying our drinks, we went here to browse



Mark decided to be a little blue guy



And then another blue guy



After we were done browsing and drinking our beverages, we headed to our first FP+. But you can't pass the fountain and not take a photo



Continued in next post

 

[KatMark]

We were headed here



(I wish these still moved)





A couple waiting for the ride with us graciously offered to take our picture





We listened to Patrick





We had a great ride again, despite the marks in the screen.

We were a bit hungry and dinner was still a bit away, so we stopped in Sunshine Seasons for a bite to eat



Then we headed here























We saw this cute guy as we headed to our next destination

 

[KatMark]

We got in line with our FP+ for Spaceship Earth



I let Mark make all of our selections and we were off



















Mark headed to his next FP+ selection





I don't do this ride. I did it once and I refuse to ever do it again. While Mark was gone, I walked over here



I was on the search for the Food & Wine mug for Nicki, but they didn't have it.

After Mark got off the ride, we started to walk over to World Showcase where we would be having dinner this evening.



We arrived at our host country





We still had about 20 minutes before we could check in so we thought we'd see if some old friends were home.

And, sure enough, they were









Up next, dinner with a Scotch flight