Life is too short for self-hatred and celery sticks: final update 12/29, p.98

[kaoden39]

Add a scrambled egg and it's a gourmet soup. We've got chickens so the eggs are freeee!
The lanterns are great. We've incorporated the latern look on our mantel and on our deck.
I can see why you love Sanaa, it's amazing. I'm glad it's sort of under the radar.
DVC.










I'm glad you like the rental even though it's not home. Much better than a hotel though.

Thats a tough choice. Because you like them both equally, can you get references?




I love the idea of you taking each boy on a trip to Disneyland during Spring Break. The GCV are extremely difficult to get, even right at the 7 month mark, so I'll send you loads of We've been lucky a few times. We've not been able to book after the 6 month though.

Ireland?

I love that I'm not the only who plans 4 years out.

I have full faith you'll figure out a way to squeeze a family trip to WDW in before 2017.

We did decided to go to Zihua, Mexico next winter. Here's the condo. We're going with our dear friends. http://www.vrbo.com/116383

This does mean that Disneyland over Christmas is 99% not going to happen.

We may cancel Vegas this summer because this trip will be to celebrate our anniversary. It's just a little delayed. It'll mean I'll go on the cruise with Joshua and then two weeks later go to Mexico. It seems a little extravagant for me and I was debating moving the cruise to early december but we chose our week in January as it's the start of the term. The beginning is far easier to make up than the end.





I hear ya! We are also view junkies.






Now like 10 days! Are you beyond excited? ​

Yes they both provided them to me when we met for the first time. I also went online and looked at reviews and at the Better Business Bureau. They both have A+ rating on the BBB. One of them has been featured more than once on Curb Appeal on HGTV. They both have rave reviews. It is going to have to go down to gut instinct.


I am waiting on the washer and dryer to be delivered now. We need to do laundry. Plus I was told that the real estate office handyman is supposed to come by and see about fixing the glaring problems like the showers not working upstairs.

 

[PrincessInOz]

We did decided to go to Zihua, Mexico next winter. Here's the condo. We're going with our dear friends. http://www.vrbo.com/116383

This does mean that Disneyland over Christmas is 99% not going to happen.

We may cancel Vegas this summer because this trip will be to celebrate our anniversary. It's just a little delayed. It'll mean I'll go on the cruise with Joshua and then two weeks later go to Mexico. It seems a little extravagant for me and I was debating moving the cruise to early december but we chose our week in January as it's the start of the term. The beginning is far easier to make up than the end.​

That's a great looking condo. Enjoy!

 

[rentayenta]

Yes they both provided them to me when we met for the first time. I also went online and looked at reviews and at the Better Business Bureau. They both have A+ rating on the BBB. One of them has been featured more than once on Curb Appeal on HGTV. They both have rave reviews. It is going to have to go down to gut instinct.

I am waiting on the washer and dryer to be delivered now. We need to do laundry. Plus I was told that the real estate office handyman is supposed to come by and see about fixing the glaring problems like the showers not working upstairs.

How are you all settling in?​

That's a great looking condo. Enjoy!

Thanks! Flights are booked, it's a go. I'm so very happy. It's our belated 20th trip.

Sorry it's taken so long to check in. With the gorgeous weekend and Mother's Day and the garden needing to be prepped, I've been silly busy. I'm hoping to have an update tomorrow.​

 

[rentayenta]

Hi all. Sorry its taken so long to update. I couldnt find my Passporter. I'm one of those who writes down notes and puts them in my handy dandy Passporter. Best $14.95 ever.

After a fabulous nightcap at Sanaa and a great night's sleep, it was time to hit DHS. We had only been to DHS once this trip, remember our super fun dinner at 50s? We were ready for some more time at DHS. It's Michael's favorite park next to AK.

I made some toast and cut up fruit, we had some coffee and juice and we were off. DHS opened at 9 am and we were out and to the bus by 8:30. As you can tell by the look on the girls' faces, they were still very very tired (foreshadowing). We wanted to travel light today so all pics are from my cell phone. We packed a few snacks and waters but that was it. I think it's nearly physically impossible for me to travel sans snacks and water.



Think they're sick of having their photo taking? Think I care?



Joshua was protesting by closing his eyes in all of my morning pictures. I am surrounded by BEASTS!

The bus came in no time and we were on our way. We chatted about our must-dos which included RnR and TSMM. I was hoping for another peak at F! but it wouldn't happen this trip. We saw it once in 2007.

Rope drop. Poor Chloe looks exhausted and note Joshuas eyes.



We strolled in and ran to TSMM. The line was minimal so we grabbed FPs and also rode stand-by:



Potato Head:



Love these guys. The queue is so clever:



Gee, look whos eyes are still closed?



Tinker Toys:



Grainy selfie with bad lighting but oh so much fun! Chloe and I love TSMM:



Los chicos:



Las chicas:



Ready, aim!



Mine and Chloe's score:



Continued in next post...​

 

[rentayenta]

After TSMM, it was time for an RnR fix. This has to be one of my alltime favorite coasters.

It was also time to grab another FP so we grabbed one for RnR and also rode standby. Tacky pics of pics:





And I swear, the lady in the yellow hat would not budge. She looked right at us and wouldnt move. People are so weird.





Back to use our TSMM FPs. This time, Michael and I rode together and I won by just a little. Both beavers.



Per usual our sugar levels started to drop so everyone wanted a snack. The pastries in DHS are pretty decent.



After our snack of pastries, juice, and coffee, we went back to use our RnR FPs. Having to follow the return time really does change the way we toured. We pretty much stayed nearby until our FP window would open.



More tacky pics of pics:





We headed over to Star Tours which never has a long wait at WDW but always has a terrible wait at Disneyland. I have no idea why.

The store at the end of the ride is very cool. Its called StarTraders at DL but I'm not sure of the name at WDW. Chloe saw this and had to have it. Does she not look adorable?



I can happily say she still wears it. I hand wash it and its held up quite well. Kayla also got one but the adultss size didnt have the Ears. Adults like Ears too. They are the cutest best friends ever.



After Star Tours, the girls and Michael wanted to ride ToT. Joshua isn't a ToT fan so he and I headed to my favorite, The Great Movie Ride. He's always up for dorky mom rides.

We met back up and the girls had hit their wall. If youre reading my Disneyland report, youll see this is the pattern. They are gung ho, hit their wall, SLEEP, and then head back for more. They were beat.

Gabby waving to Stitch on our way out- hes her favorite.



We had a really good time and everyone got a little slice of DHS.

We headed out and to the bus. I don't recall any transportation issues. I read all about how far AKV is from everything but AK and I just don't get it. Of course it's not an Epcot resort but its not far either.



Up next: a little AKV pool time/pool party and dinner at Sanaa with my cousin.

To be continued.......

​

 

[PrincessInOz]

What a great update.

I think it is very interesting to read how the FP return time enforcement is affecting the way you tour the park. Especially at DHS; where a return time might overlap into a show. Hmmm....I think there might be more planning required for DHS.

 

[DrMomof3]

A good day at DHS! I have to say that DHS has really grown on us over the years. Maybe it's because the kids are older (and taller!) so they enjoy more of the thrill rides (except poor Zachary who gets scared).

Amanda

 

[catherines_mama]

A good day at DHS! I have to say that DHS has really grown on us over the years. Maybe it's because the kids are older (and taller!) so they enjoy more of the thrill rides (except poor Zachary who gets scared).

Amanda

And DHS seems like a choppy park where the spokes don't connect. I think if you could get from TSMM to RNR without going all the way back to the main drag and back in, it wouldn't feel like you are going so out of your way to get around for your FPs.

Anyway, sounds like a great 1st half of your day. Looking fwd to hearing about your afternoon at the pool.

 

[rentayenta]

What a great update.

I think it is very interesting to read how the FP return time enforcement is affecting the way you tour the park. Especially at DHS; where a return time might overlap into a show. Hmmm....I think there might be more planning required for DHS.

It does take more planning in my opinion. No more stock piling FPs and coming back after a break to cash in. I know that's most likely why they started enforcing the rule but it was a good run while it lasted. DHS isn't user friendly too me; it's very choppy and there is a ton of wasted space. Most of the rides though are great though.​

A good day at DHS! I have to say that DHS has really grown on us over the years. Maybe it's because the kids are older (and taller!) so they enjoy more of the thrill rides (except poor Zachary who gets scared).

Amanda

Michael and the girls love DHS. I like it but I don't love it. I agree though its so much better when the kids are older. Joshua gets scared too on ToT. He'll ride RnR and Space but won't touch ToT. I think it's the drops. He can't pinpoint it. I don't love ToT either. Once a trip is plenty for me.​

And DHS seems like a choppy park where the spokes don't connect. I think if you could get from TSMM to RNR without going all the way back to the main drag and back in, it wouldn't feel like you are going so out of your way to get around for your FPs.

Anyway, sounds like a great 1st half of your day. Looking fwd to hearing about your afternoon at the pool.

I agree, DHS is very fragmented in terms of getting around. It always feel so hot there too; there's not a lot of shade. Don't get me wrong, it's a blast but its my least favorite of the parks. I enjoy the rides but not the park if that makes any sense. ​

 

[rentayenta]

We got back to AKV but not before all three girls fell asleep on the bus. I failed to get a pic because I was laughing too hard.

Besties:



We all went to the room and knew immediately where Joshua, Michael, and I were going: the pool! I love me some pool time and so do the fellas.

We changed into our suits, I packed a few snacks, and we headed out. The girls crashed out I assume. Their room was dark by the time we left. I took a pic of this guy before leaving the villa. He was right outside our balcony:



To give you an idea of what time we arrived to the pool, here's a pic of the Kidani pool board for the days pool party/activities.



We arrived just as the fun was starting.

I just love the details:



Another gorgeous Florida day:



Fantastic!



This was the one of the activities. The CM throws the little critters in and the kids fetch them up. Yes, we feed Joshua.







Me and Joshua:



Joshua didn't win the Critter Round-Up. But dont worry, team Hakunu Matata kicked some Disney trivia butt!





Winning that trivia contest worked up a thirst so I sent the boys back to the bar:









They also ordered a snack:



After our snack it was time for the next pool activity: Bio Blocks. Joshuas favorite CM was doing this activity so he happily joined in the fun:









Continued in next post....​

 

[rentayenta]

The pool party began which including hoola hooping and other fun. We opted for some time in the pool:





This could possibly be the best shot ever. I hate water going up my nose so I’m a plugger if there is going to be any chance of forceful water plunging through my nasal cavity:



After a few hours in the sun, we ventured back into the hotel. Joshua’s CM buddy told him about all of the activities where he could earn beads to be put on a necklace. The minute he heard about that, he was all over it. The beads could be earned at both Kidani and Jambo and they had the activities staggered so you could earn them all over the course of two days. Here is a photo of the completed project. Michael wears his as a necklace and Joshua made his into something he could tie onto his belt loop:







We saw these beauties on the savanah:






And a wet kid:





The first activity was about the Earth, animals, and weather if memory serves. The CMs were awesome and there were all sorts of instruments to play and audience participation was key.











Earning beads is by far Disney’s best kept secret. All 9 activities were free.

One bead wasn’t enough so we went for the second. We headed back to Kidani and Joshua participated in the *Have You Heard* activity.



Continued in next post...​

 

[rentayenta]

Right as he finished we got a call from the girls and we told them to come down. Kidani was having a campfire and those girls needed to come down and roast a marshmallow with us. They still look exhausted:





We had dinner at 8:00 at Sanaa planned with my cousin so it was time to get moving, showered, and ready for dinner. We squeeze every bit of fun out of our resorts for sure.

Once again the balcony called my name:





I hadn’t seen my cousin in over 20 years and was so happy to see her. She lives in Jacksonville and made the drive to see us. My kids and Michael had never met her. It was a very nice evening. I’m sorry for the lack of photos but I did take a few. No food porn though. I hadn’t seen her in two decades, I wasn’t about to take a pic of her curry.

I got a pic of our drinks:



And one of her dessert:



But none in between. The girls after dinner:



And the kids having some fun after finally eating dinner:










We said our goodbyes and promised not to let another 20 go by before seeing each other.

We strolled back to our villa. DH and I cracked open a beer and chilled on the balcony for a bit. I haven't a clue what the kids did.

Up next: Boys v girls!

To be continued....


​

 

[PrincessInOz]

What a great time at the resort. I'm determined to learn from your example and see if we can find time to enjoy the resort this trip!

 

[rentayenta]

What a great time at the resort. I'm determined to learn from your example and see if we can find time to enjoy the resort this trip!

It really was. DVC has taught us to really enjoy our resort time when at Disney. It was never an issue when we travel elsewhere as the resort is a big part of vacation destination. When the kids were little, pre-DVC, the hotel was important as far as cleanliness etc but the amenities weren't a top priority. As the kids have grown, things have changed. I think its in part due to them being more independent and we're able to enjoy the resort more and not watch them like when they were toddlers. Not that teen/tweens don't present their own issues but as far as vacationing, its much more relaxed now. I sound like a DVC commercial. I see us getting more and more out of our membership as the years go on. I really want to try Vero Beach, Aulani, and Hilton Head.


​

 

[DrMomof3]

I'm SUPER tempted to switch from BWV to Kidani based on these pictures.
Looks like you guys had an amazing time!!!

Amanda

 

[pooh'smate]

What a great update. I too am a nose plugger. I really hate water up my nose, Jon and Lexi make fun of me but i hate it. They are always telling me only little kids plug their nose . We too love the rides at DHS but we didn't really enjoy the park either. We have only one day scheduled there on our next trip.

 

[rentayenta]

I'm SUPER tempted to switch from BWV to Kidani based on these pictures.
Looks like you guys had an amazing time!!!

Amanda

I haven't stayed at the BWV but we have stayed at AKV twice and I can't imagine going to WDW and not staying there for part of the trip. I'm going to need 3 week trips now; one for SSR, one for AKV, and then one for another DVC resort.

There is so much to do at AKV and so much that doesn't cost anything additional. It's a great resort.​

What a great update. I too am a nose plugger. I really hate water up my nose, Jon and Lexi make fun of me but i hate it. They are always telling me only little kids plug their nose . We too love the rides at DHS but we didn't really enjoy the park either. We have only one day scheduled there on our next trip.

I only plug when jumping in or on a slide. I'm fine when swimming and even in the ocean but that direct plunge down frogs me out.

I'd be fine with only one day at DHS. Of course it's Michael second favorite. Two half days there is perfect for me. It's so scattered and choppy, great rides though.​

 

[MEK]

Holy Mega Update!

Ok, let's see now....

Kidani pool - bluest water on property. How I can't wait to check it out in October!

Great picture of you coming off the slide. So cute for a candid shot.

Love chloe's robe - Is that what its called? Very cute with the ears.

Nice trip to HS with double TSM and RnR rides! I have GOT to improve my TSM score this summer.

Nice that you got to meet up with your cousin and share drinks and dinner. Yeah - it would have been a little weird to ask to take a picture of her curry.

Cute pictures of the kids - each of everyone.

Fun update! Great day!

 

[rentayenta]

Holy Mega Update!

Ok, let's see now....

Kidani pool - bluest water on property. How I can't wait to check it out in October!

Great picture of you coming off the slide. So cute for a candid shot.

Love chloe's robe - Is that what its called? Very cute with the ears.

Nice trip to HS with double TSM and RnR rides! I have GOT to improve my TSM score this summer.

Nice that you got to meet up with your cousin and share drinks and dinner. Yeah - it would have been a little weird to ask to take a picture of her curry.

Cute pictures of the kids - each of everyone.

Fun update! Great day!

Thanks girl. It was really nice meeting up. We were very close as kids and then some extremely sad circumstances required her to move away and that's when we lost touch. Facebook reconnected us. I know the FB gets a lot of flack but when used in context, it can be amazing.

The kids had a blast that night. AKV brings out the best in us. I think we should live there. They seriously never argue when we're there which is quite the opposite from right this minute.

I didn't realize how blue the water was but you're right, it's very blue. Next time I'll take notice. It's pretty big too, we didn't have issues finding a great spot midday.

It was a really fun morning at DHS. I'm glad they were tired though as I can only handle about half a day there. Like Anne Hathaway, I have a strange aversion to the layout of DHS. My aversion is to Anne Hathaway. I don't know if she likes DHS. ​

 

[franandaj]

I like DHS for the thrill rides. Now that they changed the FP system it definitely effects my plan of attack too. RnRC is my definite first FP unless we get there at rope drop then it would be TSMM, but we've only done that once!

I love Star Tours and ToT as well, but I'm a sucker for the Great Movie Ride. The store is called Tattoine Traders. On our last trip we got sucked into this lame Jack Sparrow Pirates "experience". You won't have to worry about that, by the time you go next it will be long gone!

I've never gotten to the pool at Kidani, someday we will have to go. I just get so sucked into the balcony and watching the animals! I'm glad Joshua enjoyed all the resort activities. We just enjoy the room and the animals, I haven't actually spent much time at the firepits or talking with the CMs.

I think you made the right choice on the photos at dinner. Your cousin is cute though! Good thing I'm happily married!

What a great time at the resort. I'm determined to learn from your example and see if we can find time to enjoy the resort this trip!

If I have anything to do with it you WILL enjoy the resort and pool time. I'm determined to do so as well, I mean we have Stormalong Bay!!!!!!!