Looking forward to a crowd-free Disney Trip! **Update 9/4**

[SoonerGirl]

Hey Hope, I subscribed over here the other day, but just now had a chance to read! I think you're going to love WDW in the fall. We went once in October and loved it, not as crowded and the weather was great!

I had to laugh at you going on and on about Luke's binky. Justin never took one, but Jared LOVED his and it was so hard to break him of it! I can totally relate to your joy that it's gone.

We stayed at POFQ when we went at Christmas at really liked it there. The resort is much smaller and it's so easy to get around. The boat to DTD is awesome, plus you can have beignets for breakfast every morning - yum!! AND, like you said, it will be totally refurbished before your trip.

I do really like CSR too, the playground area and the pool are great. The newly decorated rooms are nice too. But it is really spread out which can sometimes be a hassle with a little one. Don't let the fact that it is a convention resort keep you from staying there in the future though, I've stayed there twice and never had any problem with conventioneers.

Love your new shoes! I would be a little worried about the height/strap situation on the zebra ones too, the strap on mine looks more like the strap on your pink ones. Glad to hear that you think they are going to work though!

I really, really like those Keens too - I may need some of those for myself!

About your sketchers giving you blisters, mine did the same thing to me when I wore them in the parks all day - they are NOT good touring shoes I got a new pair of tennis shoes for Christmas, they are the Reebok Run Tone, they are crazy comfortable!

Please give me any suggestions that you have regarding any of these dining choices! If you've eaten at the restaurants, please recommend your favorite appetizers, main courses, and desserts as well!!!

Resort Dining

Chef Mickey's @ Contemporary I've been here twice, once for breakfast, once for dinner. Sorry to say, but I'm not a fan. I know most people love it, but we've had much better character interaction elsewhere, and the food was not very good
Cape May Cafe @ Beach Club I haven't been here yet myself but I've read great things about it. Very laid back and not so nuts with people everywhere (like Chef Mickey's )
Grand Floridian Cafe @ GF Love it!! I've only been here once, on our last trip, but it was a great meal, I'll definitely be going back.
Kona Cafe @ Poly Another of my favorites. I always get the shrimp and scallops - so good!

Magic Kingdom
Crystal Palace Probably my favorite character breakfast
Cosmic Ray's It's ok, I much prefer Columbia Harbour House as a CS in MK
Aloha Isle (snack) Dole Whips - yummy!

Epcot
Le Cellier One of my favorites, but I've heard that most of the menu is changing when it switches over to a signature restaurant, we'll have to wait and see what the new reviews are like
La Hacienda de San Angel (this is a definite -- husbands pick) I want to try this too, can't wait to hear what you think of it!
Garden Grill (this is another definite) The food is good, not great, and we had fabulous character interaction here!
Teppan Edo (another definite -- my pick) Good choice!
Sunshine Seasons You know you can't go wrong here - there's something for everyone!
Boulangerie Patisserie (snack) Can you believe I've never gotten anything from here?!
Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe (snack) Mmmmm, love the clouberry horn! They also have really good sandwiches and they are huge!

Hollywood Studios
Sci Fi Dine-In It's a family tradition that we eat here, love the burgers and milkshakes!

** need more HS options...for some reason I'm not coming up with much ??? ** Don't forget about Pizza Planet, it's not the greatest pizza in the world, but my kids love to eat there.

Animal Kingdom
Tusker House breakfast Best juice on Disney property - yum!

** I don't have much for AK but we only go here 1 day & to all the other parks 2 days...we also will be eating dinner on our AK day at either DTD or our resort ** Yak & Yeti, both the CS & TS, are pretty good

DownTown Disney
Earl of Sandwich Yum! I can't wait to eat there in June!

Comments are in black Sorry that was such a long post!!

 

[stephielela]

Possible Dining Options

It's a combination of TS and QS because we're getting the regular dining plan. We also will be going to 1 water park (possibly both) and to DTD at least 1 or 2 evenings. We are getting the water park option but not park hoppers. I'm also not sure of Disney Quest...what do you guys think??? My mom says Luke won't enjoy it at all ???

Please give me any suggestions that you have regarding any of these dining choices! If you've eaten at the restaurants, please recommend your favorite appetizers, main courses, and desserts as well!!!

Resort Dining

Chef Mickey's @ Contemporary- I think this is a great place for kids, so they can see characters (saves time at the park) and eat what they want. I am also considering this for my MNSSHP night...Kouzzina @ Boardwalk (?)
We ate here right after they first opened in August '09. I thought it was pretty good, but not my favorite place for Jack.
Kona Cafe @ Poly
Love love loved it! We went for breakfast, It was AWESOME.
** need to limit this list to maybe 3 or 4 tops **

Magic Kingdom
Crystal Palace
I have only been here for dinner, and I thought the food was good. It's also handy to get the characters out of the way without the line!

I would reccommend Columbia Harbor House, because there's a good variety. I also have heard good things about Pecos Bill's, and I have in the past liked El Pirata y Perico, but I have heard they changed names.
** need at least 2 more QS for Magic Kingdom days **

Epcot
Chefs de France
Yum! Menu is more extensive at dinner, but we had a good lunch there too. And Remy is there at lunch.
Le Cellier
TO DIE FOR. Enough said?
Sommerfest @ Germany (for my husband & Luke)
Yum!
Sunshine Seasons
Good selection, good food, it even seems healthier than other QS options.
Boulangerie Patisserie (snack)
Their chocolate mousse is phenomenal
Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe (snack)
School bread also makes a good breakfast!

Hollywood Studios
Starring Rolls Cafe (snack/breakfast)
cupcakes galore!
Pizza Planet is a family favorite of ours. We also like 50's PTC.
** need more HS options...for some reason I'm not coming up with much ??? **

Animal Kingdom
Tusker House breakfast
We are definitely doing this again, before the park opens.
** I don't have much for AK but we only go here 1 day & to all the other parks 2 days...we also will be eating dinner on our AK day at either DTD or our resort **

DownTown Disney
Earl of Sandwich
Still dying to try this place!
Ghairadelli
Their sundaes are heaven!Fulton's Crab House

We are also going to at least one water park, possibly both of them. We will most likely eat at a resort that evening or DTD because we aren't getting park hoppers. We go to MK, DHS, and Epcot 2 days and to Epcot 1 day.

I'm hoping to get an early flight into MCO and then we will head over to DTD our first evening on the boat to eat. Nothing sounds more relaxing to me than a 30 minute boat ride after a long day of travel!

The only thing I'm worried about is being stressed out if we have an ADR. I'm hoping to be at MCO by 2 or 3pm at the latest & that should give us enough time to make it to DTD for a 6:30pm ADR...right? If it doesn't work out, I won't stress over it, we'll just head over to the food court!

I had this problem in Dec. My best advice is to either not make an ADR that you REALLY care about (ours was Cali Grill, super important to us), or if it is, make a second ADR for another day just in case you have to cancel.

Hi guys! This isn't the most interesting update in the world, but I just thought I would post some of my new items I bought for our trip!

First, I purchased a new carry-on bag. I have been looking at alot of different bags & really wanted to buy a Vera duffel. My only issue is that I really want my carry-on to be a rolling bag. I know Vera does have rolling duffels, but they are pricey! I also have found a ton of Kathy Van Zeeland carry-ons that I really, really loved! I found the red and black croc prints & also the zebra print. Of course, zebra would be my #1 choice except that I was afraid of the white part getting really dirty.

I used to have a Roxy bag with a matching make-up case (I think I posted pics of it on my June TR) but I sold them after last year's trip because I really wanted a rolling bag. It turned out that Luke & I were shopping one day at Ross Dress for Less & I found this bag!!!

It's a Kathy Van Zeeland rolling duffel in a gold python print! I it!!! It was too cute because originally I found a black croc print but it wasn't the rolling duffel, it was just a small rolling bag. Luke was rolling it around the store & when I tried taking it off of him to look at other bags, he said "No mommy, this is my purse! This is Luke's purse!" And then I tried showing him the other bag & he said "No mine!" and pulled the bag away. It was hilarious!!!

A saleswoman came over & was talking to him & he said "Look at my purse!" and was rolling it up & down the aisle. I finally convinced him to push the Kathy python bag around instead!

I usually only look at their bags & purses. I have friends who claim to have gotten great deals on clothes but I've never found anything there. So Luke and I walked towards the check-out. But I stopped because I found this top!

It soooo reminded me of Animal Kingdom! I'm not 100% sure if I'll end up wearing it or not. I took alot of polos & short sleeve tops last trip, but due to the humidity & 90+ degree temps, I ended up just wearing spaghetti strap tops. So, I guess it all depends on the weather!!!

I also bought this...its extremely light-weight so I might take it on the trip. From the picture, it looks like a heavy winter sweater, but its actually sheer & you can almost see through it. I figure I could take it in my bag or throw it in the stroller in case there are any colder evenings. I remember last trip I was cold inside some of the restaurants so I am definitely making a note to bring my short sleeve wraps with me! Like I said, not sure about this one since it is long sleeve.

I also tried on all of my Reefs! I absolutely love them!!!

The pink strap ones that I purchased (the Sassy Sandras) are my favorites! They are super comfy & are the perfect height. I was really worried about the zebra ones being too high, but it turns out they aren't as high in person as they look online. I still probably won't wear them for an entire day at the parks. I'll probably wear them on a DTD evening or maybe to dinner. I took a few close-up pictures of them but haven't put them on Shutterfly yet, so I'll post them in my next update for you to see!

Hope everyone had a great weekend!!! Will post again soon!

I love your new bag!!!! I also love that my son is not the only one who wants his own purse!!!

I have a tank top I bought specifically with AK in mind. I love having specific "park" clothes!

I am glad you like the Sandras. I might get those too, but first I need to get some Kenneth Cole sandals I've been eyeing...

I completely forgot to write the cutest story in my last update!!! Today we were doing a little bit of "spring cleaning" a little early. We have alot to do outside so we figured we'd start on the inside stuff before the weather gets nicer (which hopefully will be soon!!!)

I decided to start with the closet where I keep the coats, shoes, suitcases, gloves/hats, etc. Luke of course was my big helper! Well, I had to take all of the suitcases out in order to fit my new carry-on bag in the closet & also to clean the floor of the closet. Luke found a little green & red & blue suitcase & asked me if it was his. I told him that it was & showed him how to pull the bar up so he could roll it around the house. He rolled it up & down the hallway & then asked "where's daddy?" and I told him that he was outside. I watched Luke walk towards the kitchen & front door. He sat down on a bucket that its in the kitchen & put his suitcase beside him. As soon as he saw his dad come back into the house, he got up & grabbed his shoes. He put them beside him & said "daddy, shoes on!" So my husband asked him where he was going. He said "I'm going to see the water slide and Mickey Mouse, Chip & Dale, Goofy, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Daisy!" He actually started to cry when I told him that we can't go yet!

I felt so bad, but it was honestly the cutest thing to see him get that excited over a Disney trip!!! I finally convinced him to put the suitcase back in the closet & told him we would look at Disney videos this evening.

Had to share the story with you guys!!!

That is an adorable story!! Jack likes to talk about our next trip too. We talk about watching Stacy on TV at the hotel, and riding the rides he was afraid of last time...

Oh and the package is in the mail!!!

 

[photographymom517]

So I know I wanted to have orange font to keep with the "Halloween theme" and all, but honestly girls, its driving me crazy!!! I don't know why none of you have complained to me yet about it! The orange is horrible to read!

So now I'm going to try green...its sort of for Halloween, I mean pumpkins have green stems, right?

I promise to write back to everyone later this evening. I logged onto DIS with the intention of trying to catch up on my subs, write my own update, and write back to everyone's great advice. But my head hurts sooo bad!

I'm not really sick, I think its a combination of being exhausted & not sleeping well last night. My sinuses also bother me with the changing weather. Today the sun is out shining bright, but the temps are freeeeezing! So I'm going to try to take a tylenol, have a cup of coffee, and catch up on Days of Our Lives.

And maybe later if I feel better, I will update again!

(Green font is much, much better!)

 

[DevonsDisneyMom]

You are too funny hope!!! I didn't mind the orange, but the green is easier on the eyes!

Oh man I so feel you on the head hurting!!!! My head is pounding right now. I think mine is a combo of stress and not sleeping well last night. But then again I think I have something going on w/my sinuses too! Darn weather going from hot to cold to freezing again is really messing with my head literally!

Feel better!

 

[SoonerGirl]

Yep, the green is definitely easier to read

 

[photographymom517]

I so want to stay at POFQ one day!!! I think the refurbed rooms look great and definitely have that NOLA feel to them! Honestly, I think you will be happier at FQ b/c of the fact it is a smaller resort.

I think if we don't end up renting DVC points for out stay at Disney before our cruise next April we will stay at POFQ!

You are too funny hope!!! I didn't mind the orange, but the green is easier on the eyes!

Oh man I so feel you on the head hurting!!!! My head is pounding right now. I think mine is a combo of stress and not sleeping well last night. But then again I think I have something going on w/my sinuses too! Darn weather going from hot to cold to freezing again is really messing with my head literally!

Feel better!

I had no idea they were even refurbing POFQ! I just found out about it the other day when I posted on here. LOL I definitely like the new rooms!

I don't think it will really matter in the end which we stay at since we are able to use the amenities at both...but I just want to make the right choice!

Ooooh I can't wait to hear all about your cruise in April!!! We want to cruise but there's no way until Luke is potty-trained. I keep telling him if he starts using the potty, he can ride on a giant Mickey ship!

If you rent DVC points for your stay at Disney before your cruise, which resort are you staying at?

Thanks Reese, I hope you feel better too!!! I know how you feel because my sinuses always have issues when the weather changes. They can't deal with these freezing temps again! I thought we were done with the absolutely FREEZING weather but I guess not!

Hopefully we both feel better! I think this weekend's temps are supposed to be in the high 40's or low 50's!

Yep, the green is definitely easier to read

I know, I just couldn't look at the orange anymore! I don't know how anyone was reading it!

 

[photographymom517]

Hey Hope, I subscribed over here the other day, but just now had a chance to read! I think you're going to love WDW in the fall. We went once in October and loved it, not as crowded and the weather was great!

I had to laugh at you going on and on about Luke's binky. Justin never took one, but Jared LOVED his and it was so hard to break him of it! I can totally relate to your joy that it's gone.

We stayed at POFQ when we went at Christmas at really liked it there. The resort is much smaller and it's so easy to get around. The boat to DTD is awesome, plus you can have beignets for breakfast every morning - yum!! AND, like you said, it will be totally refurbished before your trip.

I do really like CSR too, the playground area and the pool are great. The newly decorated rooms are nice too. But it is really spread out which can sometimes be a hassle with a little one. Don't let the fact that it is a convention resort keep you from staying there in the future though, I've stayed there twice and never had any problem with conventioneers.

Love your new shoes! I would be a little worried about the height/strap situation on the zebra ones too, the strap on mine looks more like the strap on your pink ones. Glad to hear that you think they are going to work though!

I really, really like those Keens too - I may need some of those for myself!

About your sketchers giving you blisters, mine did the same thing to me when I wore them in the parks all day - they are NOT good touring shoes I got a new pair of tennis shoes for Christmas, they are the Reebok Run Tone, they are crazy comfortable!

Glad to hear someone else understands my binky issues!!!

I was looking through pictures again last night & Luke came into the room. He started laughing & said "Binky gone! Luke is a big boy!" He was very proud of himself!

Oooh I almost forgot about the beignets!!! I will definitely try those & I know that Luke will love them. I'm definitely looking forward to the boat to DTD. It will be very convenient for dinner & shopping!

I wore those zebra Reefs all day yesterday (in the house...too cold outside!) The great part about a September trip is that I have all summer to try out my new sandals! I also got a surprise the other day! I was cleaning out my coat closet & found a few brand new pairs of sandals from last summer! I bought them off-season so got great deals on them & never wore them! They aren't the most comfortable for Disney but I might take 1 of them along.

I'll keep you posted on the Keens!

Thanks for all the restaurant suggestions, Michelle!!! I will definitely add it to my notes. I think I'm going to get a new notebook just for my dining options! I keep writing down everyone's advice & now each restaurant has 2 pages of notes!

I forgot about Yak & Yeti but might try that for myself. Back in 2009, we tried to eat at the CS restaurant but all my husband ended up with was a frozen lemonade I LOVED my meal there & would love to try the TS restaurant as well.

You absolutely HAVE to try something from the France bakery next trip! Soooo good & they have alot of options! I force myself to get a snack here even if we just ate! Its a "must" for me on every trip!

Since I don't have definite plans yet, I can't say for sure, but I might be scrapping Chef Mickey's. Luke has been asking to see Oso & Manny again so I want to make sure to eat at Play & Dine again. I definitely want to do Cape May, Tusker House & Crystal Palace and my husband's "must" for the trip is Garden Grill. So that's already 5 character meals. If I decide to get rid of a character meal, Chef Mickey's it will be! I've definitely heard of better experiences at Cape May's & since we love the Beach Club, it will be great to visit there again!

I've never been to GF Cafe or Kona so I'm looking forward to those ones! I'm actually excited for all of our resort dining choices just to explore the other resorts a little bit! Thanks for the suggestion at Kona...I love shrimp!!!

ALOT of people have suggested Columbia Harbour House to me so we will definitely consider it! I was looking through some TR's and saw pics of it...and then I remembered we almost ate there last trip but the line was ridiculous! We couldn't even get in the door!

Last trip I got a Dole Whip but ended up giving it to Luke. This trip I want to try the float & since Luke will have his own dining plan this trip, he can get his own!

I will definitely report back what we think about La Hacienda de San Angel! My husband has been talking about it since last trip, so this is a MUST!

We tried to get into Sci Fi last trip but nothing was available. We're looking forward to it this trip! Luke loves milkshakes, thanks for recommending those!

Wow! So sorry that was long! Thanks so much for all the wonderful advice!!!

 

[photographymom517]

I love your new bag!!!! I also love that my son is not the only one who wants his own purse!!!

I have a tank top I bought specifically with AK in mind. I love having specific "park" clothes!

I am glad you like the Sandras. I might get those too, but first I need to get some Kenneth Cole sandals I've been eyeing...

That is an adorable story!! Jack likes to talk about our next trip too. We talk about watching Stacy on TV at the hotel, and riding the rides he was afraid of last time...

Oh and the package is in the mail!!!

Oh don't worry, you are definitely not alone! Luke definitely thinks he has his own purse, too!

I think that it doesn't really matter if your child is a boy or girl...they want to be just like mommy!!! I'm sure that's why Jack and Luke both pretend to have purses!

Definitely look into buying the Sandras! They are the best out of the 3 pairs!!! Super comfy & just the right height! I love the pattern on the strap too!

And thank you so much again for the bag!!!

Regarding your dining suggestions:

Chef Mickey's -- As I told Michelle, I might be getting rid of this one since we will have 5 other character meals! However, I never thought about what you suggested...after reading that you might go here on your MNSSHP night, I might keep it. It would work out perfectly to go to a resort meal prior to MNSSHP! We could hang out at the resort that morning/afternoon or go to DTD, eat at one of these -- Chef Mickey's/Kona/GF -- and then head over to the Halloween party! Great idea!

I definitely want to eat at Crystal Palace. First we had it scheduled last trip & had to cancel and second I want to do a meal with Pooh & friends before Luke gets older & forgets about them! They used to be his favorite characters! (we can't find it on the Disney channel anymore )

Lots of people have recommended Columbia Harbour House so we will be checking this out!!!

Thanks for the reminder about Remy! I couldn't remember if he was at lunch or dinner! Luke's favorite movie right now is "Touille" as he calls it! He watches it almost every night. With all of our Epcot dining options, park hoppers are starting to look like a better option.

If we don't get Le Cellier, I am going to scream!!! So loud that you will hear me at your house!!!

We enjoyed having so many options at Sunshine Seasons & we always find good desserts! Luke loves the rotisserie chicken so this is a must for him!

Your quote "Boulangerie Patisserie (snack) -- Their chocolate mousse is phenomenal"

AGREED!!!! I love their chocolate mousse!!! So much that I've never actually gone into the bakery! I just send my husband in to pick something out for himself & get my choco mousse!

School bread was recommended by so many people that I HAD to have it last trip. I made a point to go to Norway just for schoolbread & when we got up to the counter, it was sold out! They ended up putting more out after we had paid. I was upset, but just figured I will try it this trip!

And you know what? I can't ever decide what to eat for breakfast on our Epcot days...it seems like not many places are open that early & we don't like Disney eggs. Schoolbread does sound like a good breakfast! Thanks for the suggestion!

You really, really need to try Earl of Sandwich! I suggest the Hawaiian BBQ sandwich! Delish!!!

I know I asked about having an ADR the first day...well, looking over flight times (our airport has 2-3 nonstop flights per day going to MCO) there are 2 options most weekdays...either 6am or 8pm. We definitely would take the earlier time so I think making a dinner ADR would be safe. I'm thinking something at DTD or at our resort for around 5 or 6pm.

If we have to get a later flight, I will definitely take your advice & book at the same restaurant later in our trip. That way we wouldn't miss out on that particular restaurant! Oh speaking of Cali Grill, does it take 2 dining credits or just one? I completely forgot about it! I'd love to try it!

I need to go back over to your TR! You had lots of great dining choices & I loved your food pics!

Thanks so much for all the great advice!!! And I'll be needing more advice from you soon...about MNSSHP!!!

 

[photographymom517]

I will post more details later, but I just wanted to post some general ideas of what I want to do for this trip. I'd love any suggestions that you have, especially for MNSSHP!!!!

This list might change along the way...some things may be deleted & some may be added.

Firsts for this trip

* MNSSHP
* Fantasia
* Buy cake for Luke
* Make gift bags for Luke
* Mini Golf
* See movie at DTD theater

Some of the things I already have information for. Others I am clueless & need some serious help!!!

Let's start with MNSSHP!

First of all, I need a costume. Last year, some of you might remember that I took alot of time to get a Cruella Deville costume together. I thought we might be going to Disney in September & figured I'd dress up at home even if we weren't going. I even bought alot of the items thinking of Disney...for example I bought red flats instead of heels. I'm not 100% sure if I'm going to use the costume for this year or not. I'd rather take something simple along with me, maybe even just a costume tee

If anyone has a suggestion, please let me know!

Luke has a dinosaur costume for this year, but I'd rather get him something Disney related but still want it to be simple. I don't want to carry alot in the suitcase or at the park (although we will still have our stroller so I could just throw it in the stroller basket if he won't wear it).

I'm fairly cheap when it comes to Halloween costumes. I guess you could call it frugal! I only paid $4 for his dinosaur costume 2 years ago and last years was $7. I would prefer to pay under $20-30 for each of ours.

I am still considering taking my Cruella costume because I already have the wig, red gloves, black tank dress, red flats, pearls to use as a belt, and even a Disney Dalmation stuffed puppy! Being as frugal as I am, I'm thinking I should just use this costume. I have Dalmation print fleece that I'd have to make into a wrap. I wouldn't want the full fleece coat because of the hot FL weather so I'd just make a small wrap to put on my shoulders. I'm just worried about carrying all of this stuff around at the parks!

Anyone know when the MNSSHP dates are released? I remember looking it up last year for my parents & I think we found them in the summer. I want to go to one of the dance parties because I think Luke would love it. And my "must" for MNSSHP is to get my picture taken with the 7 Dwarfs!!! My mom waited last year for 45 minutes in line, but waited less than 10 minutes for all the other characters. I will wait up to an hour for them!!!

 

[photographymom517]

Update continued:

Fantasia

I already have info on this!

I can't wait to see the show! This is a first for all of us!


Buy cake for Luke

I'm subscribed to all of the "Cake Chatter" Threads so I have lots of info regarding the cakes! I actually wanted to get one last trip, but ended up using the money for other things.

I'd love to get one of the large Mad Hatter cakes, but 1) it isn't in my budget 2) there aren't enough people to eat it and 3) we're on the Dining Plan so we'll already have dessert! We definitely don't need a huge cake! They are beautiful & maybe someday if I can convince alot of people in our family to vacation with us, I will get a large cake.

For this trip, I want to get one of the little mini-wedding cakes. I'm going to ask for it with orange icing and green or blue trim. Its a little present for Luke because the kid is obsessed with cake!!!

The mini-wedding cake costs $25-30.

I know its not the healthiest thing in the world, but its going to be a special treat for him! He often bakes cakes with me & of course loves to eat them! Everytime we go to the grocery store & he sees the cake supplies, he asks if we can bake a cake & put a candle on it!

In case anyone else wants to order a cake, the phone number for Private Dining is (407) 824-2955

Once you call the main PD number, there's an automated menu for the resorts. You can choose which resort you want it delivered to & then you talk to an actual person. I'm thinking about getting it delivered to Cape May or possibly GF Cafe.

They suggest ordering the cake 2-3 weeks in advance.

I also saw some other great ideas if anyone is interested!!! They have a chocolate slipper (I think everyone knows about this!). It comes in dark chocolate, regular chocolate, or white chocolate. I'm not sure if you can request the type of chocolate or not. You can also order it with fresh fruit! Alot of parents get them for their kids at Cinderella's Royal Table! I would definitely eat there & order the slipper if I had a little girl.

I also saw a chocolate photo frame with an edible image of the Boardwalk resort. It comes with truffles and costs only $35 which I didn't think was bad! I'm wondering if this can be delivered to the Beach Club but I'm also afraid it would be too much chocolate for the 3 of us.

Most restaurants also have the podium cakes or the mini surprise cake or pirate chest (the surprise cake & pirate chest each cost $15). I think the podium cakes cost around $25 each.


Make gift bags for Luke

I found alot of great DISigns on here last year! Some of them I used to make Luke shirts & others I used in my planning journal. I'm planning to use alot of the DISigns to make little gift bags for Luke. I love the "Grand Welcome" through Disney Florists, but there's no way $395 is in my budget!!! If it were, I'd stay a few extra nights at Disney!

I found Mickey footprints & will print those out on yellow paper. I'm going to print out a bunch of the balloons on different colored paper & hang them on the walls (with 3M tape which is easily removed! ) He also really likes Tink so I'm going to print out her silouette & hang it on the wall & sprinkle "pixie dust" on the floor underneath her. I got the idea from the other DIS members who have recreated the Grand Welcome!

I was also planning to order a gift basket for Luke from Memories by Betsy or Peggy at Pixie Dust Occasions. I'm not sure if I'm doing this or not.

I might just create my own small gift bags & take them along with me. I want to include things like Disney gift cards & vouchers to get toys because I don't want to lug alot of toys down to Disney & then back home. This will also give Luke a chance to pick out his own toys/shirts instead of me choosing everything ahead of time.

I found a really super cute idea on DIS! A lady (I apologize for not knowing her DIS name but I can look it up!) made a gift bag for her child from each of the Fab 5 characters. The gift bags looked like the shirts of each character! For example, Mickey's bag was his red shirt with the yellow buttons on it and Pluto's was yellow with his green collar & dog bone! I'd really like to attempt to recreate these plus they won't take up much suitcase space!

I will post updates as I decide what I'm doing!


Mini Golf

I believe there is a mini golf course that you can get to without using a taxi or bus. From what I've heard, you go to either the Dolphin or Swan & walk across the street.


See movie at DTD theater

I really, really want Luke to see his very first movie at DTD, but I'm not sure if that will happen or not! Pirates is being released May 20th and we really want to go see it. I know it will be rated PG-13 but Luke loves the Pirates movies. So when my husband & I go to see it, Luke will come with us. He might not get to see his very 1st movie at Disney but he will see his second! I'm sort of hoping for Cars 2 or Monsters 2 to be released before our trip, but anything would be ok with me!

More trip info to come soon!!!! I printed out the park hours the other night, talked to my husband about "real trip dates" and started researching flight info!

 

[DevonsDisneyMom]

I had no idea they were even refurbing POFQ! I just found out about it the other day when I posted on here. LOL I definitely like the new rooms!

I don't think it will really matter in the end which we stay at since we are able to use the amenities at both...but I just want to make the right choice!

Ooooh I can't wait to hear all about your cruise in April!!! We want to cruise but there's no way until Luke is potty-trained. I keep telling him if he starts using the potty, he can ride on a giant Mickey ship!

If you rent DVC points for your stay at Disney before your cruise, which resort are you staying at?

Thanks Reese, I hope you feel better too!!! I know how you feel because my sinuses always have issues when the weather changes. They can't deal with these freezing temps again! I thought we were done with the absolutely FREEZING weather but I guess not!

Hopefully we both feel better! I think this weekend's temps are supposed to be in the high 40's or low 50's!

OMG can I just say that it is so COLD in Philly today!!! It's freaking Freezing! I am SO over this winter it is NOT even funny!!!

POFQ... I had no idea the rooms were being refurbed either till a few weeks ago when I came across the a pic in someones TR report. I heard the rooms there were getting run down looking so I figured that resort would be getting a face lift soon!

POR and POFQ are so similar. Main difference is the size of the resort. If you are looking for a resort that is more condensed I'd think POFQ is better. That is one of the main things that appeals to me most about POFQ. I like that everthing is so close together.

Hope you have no clue how much I am looking forward to this cruise!!!! Devon came to me this morning and said only 399 days till we're sailing on the Dream!!!

So if we do rent DVC points I'm thinking either Boardwalk or Beach Club!!! BUT if we can swing it I really want to do Bay Lake! We shall see. It's still over a year away!

 

[SoonerGirl]

I've only been to one MNSSHP and that was in 2006, so I'm not sure my advice would even be helpful. Our experience was great though, we loved it! I would say to eat an early dinner before the party starts so that you don't have to waste any party time having a meal, and if Luke takes a good nap and can stay up late, the 2nd parade is much less crowded. We waited until later, after the 2nd parade, to meet the 7 Dwarves and only had a line of about 4 people in front of us

I think if you go to the party as Cruella, it would be absolutely adorable for Luke to be a Dalmation!

Gift baskets: I ordered from Memories by Betsy before our Christmas trip and she was fabulous to work with. She'll really work with you to customize the basket the way you want it, with what you want in it. She also had some great ideas for the boys when I was stumped!

Mini golf: The one across from the Swan/Dolphin is Fantasia Gardens, it's a really cute course too. The other one (Winter/Summerland) is probably more young kid friendly, it's easier. It's not hard to get to either, just take a bus to Blizzard Beach and walk across the parking lot.

 

[photographymom517]

OMG can I just say that it is so COLD in Philly today!!! It's freaking Freezing! I am SO over this winter it is NOT even funny!!!

POFQ... I had no idea the rooms were being refurbed either till a few weeks ago when I came across the a pic in someones TR report. I heard the rooms there were getting run down looking so I figured that resort would be getting a face lift soon!

POR and POFQ are so similar. Main difference is the size of the resort. If you are looking for a resort that is more condensed I'd think POFQ is better. That is one of the main things that appeals to me most about POFQ. I like that everthing is so close together.

Hope you have no clue how much I am looking forward to this cruise!!!! Devon came to me this morning and said only 399 days till we're sailing on the Dream!!!

So if we do rent DVC points I'm thinking either Boardwalk or Beach Club!!! BUT if we can swing it I really want to do Bay Lake! We shall see. It's still over a year away!

Oh my Reese, I know!!! This weather is driving me completely insane!!! I want winter to be over soooo badly!!!

My car said it was 50 degrees today but there is NO WAY! The wind made it so cold & the furnace has been running constantly all evening. Its also been raining non-stop since around 3pm.

I love how Devon is just as excited as you are about the cruise!!! You've taught him well!!!

Are you doing a PTR for your cruise/Disney trip??? Let me know if you are so I can follow along!

I've only been to one MNSSHP and that was in 2006, so I'm not sure my advice would even be helpful. Our experience was great though, we loved it! I would say to eat an early dinner before the party starts so that you don't have to waste any party time having a meal, and if Luke takes a good nap and can stay up late, the 2nd parade is much less crowded. We waited until later, after the 2nd parade, to meet the 7 Dwarves and only had a line of about 4 people in front of us

I think if you go to the party as Cruella, it would be absolutely adorable for Luke to be a Dalmation!

Gift baskets: I ordered from Memories by Betsy before our Christmas trip and she was fabulous to work with. She'll really work with you to customize the basket the way you want it, with what you want in it. She also had some great ideas for the boys when I was stumped!

Mini golf: The one across from the Swan/Dolphin is Fantasia Gardens, it's a really cute course too. The other one (Winter/Summerland) is probably more young kid friendly, it's easier. It's not hard to get to either, just take a bus to Blizzard Beach and walk across the parking lot.

Michelle, thank you soooo much for the advice about MNSSHP!!! Even though you went back in 2006, I still think your advice will be extremely helpful!!!

I definitely thought about eating an early meal. We usually eat dinner around 4pm at home, so we're used to early meals on vacation. I'll probably schedule a character or resort meal around 3pm or so & then we can eat a few snacks at the MK during the party!

Thank you soooo much for the advice about the 7 dwarfs!!! I will definitely wait until after the 2nd parade to meet them! My mom waited 45 minutes last year, but it was during the very 1st MNSSHP so I'm not sure if that had anything to do with it or not

I'm so glad to hear you had a great experience with Memories from Betsy! Even if I end up making my own basket or gift bags for Luke, my mom wants to order from her so I'm still doing research about it for her! I've heard nothing but wonderful things about Betsy so I will definitely keep it in mind!!!

It's great to know where the mini golf courses are & how to get there!!! Thanks, I put it in my notes!!!

And wait until you hear my next update...lol

 

[photographymom517]

Ok guys! First "Big Change" of my TR so far! I just found out about this the other evening & wasn't going to tell you until I booked...but I just can't keep it a secret anymore!

We are upgrading our resort to....
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The BEACH CLUB!!!!








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[Megablocks]

Beach Club?!?!



That is my DREAM resort!!!! So excited for you!!!

 

[DevonsDisneyMom]

BEACH CLUB!!!! Are you kidding me??? You know I want to stay there SO bad!!! I am green with envy!!!

And as far a a PTR for the cruise, I think I am just going to chat about the cruise in my Sept PTR.

 

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

Woooo Hooooo!!!! Yay for upgrading to Beach Club!! It is my dream to stay there! I'm so jealous! So much for the info on POR.....I was just thinking I needed to redo that missing post for you!!

You've had so many updates and I've falling behind!

I love your restaurant choices. I do the same thing...make a list of possibilities and narrow it down. I have eaten at Kouzzina and I think that's a really good one...especially now that you're staying at BC.

I also LOVE the Reefs! I swear by Reefs....we're them religiously in WDW! The one you bought that mine most resemble are the Sassy Sandras. I get the ones called Sandy, which I guess are the immature version of Sandra! I also get the Lily...same exact style just a different design on the strap.

 

[NikkiLovesWDW!]

Oh, also....did you know that the AMC theater in DTD will be changing to the Dine-In theater? Not sure when it will be changing but that should be fun. They actually changed one of the AMC theaters near us and we are going today for the first time!! Can't wait to have dinner and watch Rango at the same time! (And maybe even have a beer! SO cool!)

 

[PopArtGal]

What size do you wear? I love the zebra reefs hehe


Nevermind, I just read that you love them. I thought I might get them off your hands if you didn't like them.

 

[photographymom517]

Oh, also....did you know that the AMC theater in DTD will be changing to the Dine-In theater? Not sure when it will be changing but that should be fun. They actually changed one of the AMC theaters near us and we are going today for the first time!! Can't wait to have dinner and watch Rango at the same time! (And maybe even have a beer! SO cool!)

Thanks Nikki! No, I had no idea they were changing AMC to a dine-in theater! That would be really neat! We could save one of our dining credits & just eat lunch or dinner there. It will be super convenient to go there now that we're staying at the BC!!!

Please let me know how your experience was at AMC & what they offer to eat! Hope you had a great time!

Woooo Hooooo!!!! Yay for upgrading to Beach Club!! It is my dream to stay there! I'm so jealous! So much for the info on POR.....I was just thinking I needed to redo that missing post for you!!

You've had so many updates and I've falling behind!

I love your restaurant choices. I do the same thing...make a list of possibilities and narrow it down. I have eaten at Kouzzina and I think that's a really good one...especially now that you're staying at BC.

I also LOVE the Reefs! I swear by Reefs....we're them religiously in WDW! The one you bought that mine most resemble are the Sassy Sandras. I get the ones called Sandy, which I guess are the immature version of Sandra! I also get the Lily...same exact style just a different design on the strap.

Don't worry about being a little behind. I will update like mad for a few days & then you won't hear from me for weeks!

I'm in "super research mode" because the more I think about it, its only 6 months away & there is soooo much to plan! I won't really worry too much about park days until they release MNSSHP dates & I make our ADR's. I like to keep things flexible until then. I've heard alot of good things about Kouzzina and since we'll be so close to the Boardwalk, I will definitely keep that one on my list!

I'm glad to hear you like the Reefs!!! It seems like everyone loves them & wears them at the parks, so I can't wait until warm weather to try them out! The nice thing is that I'll have all summer to wear them before our September trip! They'll be worn in pretty good by then!

BEACH CLUB!!!! Are you kidding me??? You know I want to stay there SO bad!!! I am green with envy!!!

And as far a a PTR for the cruise, I think I am just going to chat about the cruise in my Sept PTR.

Beach Club?!?!



That is my DREAM resort!!!! So excited for you!!!

Isn't it soooo incredibly exciting?????? You can see why I couldn't keep it a secret from you guys!!!!

I've been trying to talk my husband into it for years. He thought it was too fancy & expensive, but after I scheduled our Photo Session there in June, we all fell completely in with the Beach Club area!!!

Plus, Epcot is his favorite park as well as my favorite park...so it definitely will have its advantages! I can't wait for that short walk over to Epcot! I was watching videos this morning on YouTube of people walking from the BC to Epcot...

Now I'm just trying to figure out how to save up some money to add park hoppers. It just makes more sense because we can walk over to Epcot every night if we want to! Soooo awesome! I want to go tomorrow, I am soooo excited now! (If something happens to ruin this, I will completely freak out! And I will definitely need your support! )

I've been spending the past few hours on Google Earth...just looking at the BC and the walk over to the Boardwalk & Epcot! And then I'll look at Brook's pictures since she was just at the Boardwalk (they moved to BLT today)...such a pretty area!!!

I never in a million years thought that I would be reporting this to you guys!!!

The only thing better than this upgrade is if I could take all of you with me!

What size do you wear? I love the zebra reefs hehe

Nevermind, I just read that you love them. I thought I might get them off your hands if you didn't like them.

I won't tell you what size I wear, but I promise you that you more than likely wear a much smaller size than me!

The zebra ones & the pink Sandras are awesome! I never did post my "update" on my shoes, but I actually sent the one pair back. The ones that were called Miss Playa something...they looked the most comfy but I tried them on & the strap was already rubbing against my toe & the side of my foot. I only had them on for about 10 minutes, so there's no way they would work at Disney! Too bad because they were cute & looked sporty! They were the most expensive pair too so since I sent them back, I "might" buy a different pair or use that money towards the Keens.