My AP-ALOOZA Continues (WE RENEWED!!) ~ NEW TR link posted!

[Imagineer5]

Wow, that sure is an empty EMH!

Ha ha, based on being in the parks with you, jumping in front of your stroller is never a good idea! (just to clarify - you are a very good stroller driver, but FAST - more than he probably expected! )

Wow, check out Aria's accuracy on TSMM! Impressive.

Cars Land looks so fun to walk around! Love all the theming (the Bug's Land looks neat too).

I bet Aria was trying to figure out how to back into and sit on the car's lap.

Nice - valet stroller parking! Always nice when you can keep it through the line (hope they didn't throw it like at the safari, though! )

Aria looks like she's having SO much fun on the Ladybug ride!

Love the cowboy boots! You need to dress her as Jessie or something. I'm sure you can have a dress made from a Toy Story shirt.

Aw, she looks like she's having a blast in the Splash Pad too. What did she do to earn the Dum Dum, though?

I can get a bit agressive with the stroller but wouldn't intentionally hit someone! And Lynda can attest that he literally jumped over a curb into my stroller path giving me no time to stop. It was just funny the way the parents handled it!

Hahahhaha you made me laugh with the memory of throwing our strollers across the parking area. That was crazy!

I think the dum dum was a freebie. It was before i realized I could use them to my advantage...

The lack of crowds that morning was just amazing. We had such a blast running around the empty park.

Cars Land DOES look amazing!
And I thought the same thing about Aria's accuracy!
Its CRAZY how much shoes make a difference in height, smart to bring the boots!
I follow along because 1) you go so often you're always talking about a trip 2) I'm pretty sure we're close in age, so you're relatable 3) The way you do the parks with Aria seems so effortless that I want to copy every move you make 4) I might be obsessed with Aria's MJ/Upcycle collection (may I have your SPECIFIC upcycler?) 5) This is the first thread I've actually not been a lurker on 6) There is probably more, but I just like your reports!

Awww you are too sweet!! I'm 31 Going so often makes going to the parks so easy for me, now! My favorite upcycler is Cutie Pie Creations - she has a group on Facebook so I'd look her up! I have a personal FB page and then a "closet" FB page where I keep track of Aria's wardrobe - if you really want to see how crazy I am feel free to PM me hahaha,

Thank you for not being a lurker! It's tough to want to spend hours on updates when no one comments for days, but luckily I have you girls to comment! I am so glad you love the reports.

And yes, regarding the shoes - I am going to wait until mid- August to see how tall she is and go from there with trying to get her to 38" for 7DMT. It is a pretty fast ride, so honestly I think she might be a bit afraid on it, but if she is at that height I would give it a shot.

 

[TheMaxRebo]

I sooo want to ride BTMRR at Disneyland after the refub - it looks/sounds great!

I also want to ride Space Mountain there at least once just to experience the ride with someone next to me rather than the single-file at WDW

Those are nice Main St. Pics - have to say, having only been to WDW the castle at Disneyland just looks so short!

Love the details on the pool with the old ticket ... definitely seems like they got the details wright with this hotel!

Ah water fountains/sprayers/etc - my kids can't get enough of those!

that's a perfect angle with Aria looking up at the balloons in that one magic shot!

bummer about the single rider lines being so long!

I agree that they need to have Olaf at the A&E Meet & Greet at WDW - I think it would be great if they still had A&E meet together and then just put Olaf where Aurora was

Wow, Aria really seems to be enjoying Pooh! I like the ride vehicles on that version better than the WDW one

sorry Aria didn't enjoy Fantasmic! more ... I was scared of loud noises as a kid but my kids seem to love them - they can't get enough of fireworks and did really well with Fantasmic! at WDW last trip - so much so I booked a dinner package for our upcoming trip

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The aquarium in Baltimore is really great and I love the inner-harbor area. rest of the town not as much but that area is really nice!

Good luck to Andrew with the Boat - hope it works out and passes all the test

glad your quick trip down to WDW worked out and that Aria is doing so great ... 'course at this point she is getting to be a pro!

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That "Celebrating - First in line" button is cute!

"GET UP!!!!" - reminds me of those videos with the crowds trying to get to the A&E meet at Magic Kingdom .... there is no time to fall down and get hurt at Disney!!!!!

Cars Land looks so cool - I hope Disney does something similar in WDW, though not the exact same as I do like that there are some unique things to each park

Aria looks so happy on that Ladybug ride!

Ah, we are thinking of the same "Shoe Trick" for Olivia this August - she is like like 43" and a bit right now and as of now she says she will ride EE with me so need to find shoes that ensure she will hit 44" - guess we can be "bad DISers" together

and again - gotta love splash areas

 

[Dugette]

I can get a bit agressive with the stroller but wouldn't intentionally hit someone! And Lynda can attest that he literally jumped over a curb into my stroller path giving me no time to stop. It was just funny the way the parents handled it!

Oh, I know you wouldn't intentionally hit someone - I just figure he didn't think strollers could move so fast when he jumped out.

Thank you for not being a lurker! It's tough to want to spend hours on updates when no one comments for days, but luckily I have you girls to comment! I am so glad you love the reports.

I'm sure everyone is just hoping that if they don't comment you'll end up booking another trip to pass the time!

 

[Imagineer5]

I sooo want to ride BTMRR at Disneyland after the refub - it looks/sounds great!

I also want to ride Space Mountain there at least once just to experience the ride with someone next to me rather than the single-file at WDW

Those are nice Main St. Pics - have to say, having only been to WDW the castle at Disneyland just looks so short!

Love the details on the pool with the old ticket ... definitely seems like they got the details wright with this hotel!

Ah water fountains/sprayers/etc - my kids can't get enough of those!

that's a perfect angle with Aria looking up at the balloons in that one magic shot!

bummer about the single rider lines being so long!

I agree that they need to have Olaf at the A&E Meet & Greet at WDW - I think it would be great if they still had A&E meet together and then just put Olaf where Aurora was

Wow, Aria really seems to be enjoying Pooh! I like the ride vehicles on that version better than the WDW one

sorry Aria didn't enjoy Fantasmic! more ... I was scared of loud noises as a kid but my kids seem to love them - they can't get enough of fireworks and did really well with Fantasmic! at WDW last trip - so much so I booked a dinner package for our upcoming trip

Yeah - Pooh at DL seems way better, I like the woodsy feel outside and the location of it really allowed us to ride many times without a line, which was a huge plus. Maybe it helps having an older sister or something? I think Aria is slowly getting used to the noises (ah-hem, she fell asleep during Wishes in June!! haha!).

DLH was wonderful! The pool was neat, and the little hidden details like the tickets really led to the "original" hotel feel despite it being fully renovated.

I think Aria's first Space ride will need to be at DL so I can sit next to her!! (although I think there is a seat in WDW that you have put someone in your lap? Maybe? I don't remember.

BTMRR was awesome, and we missed it in June (thanks, rain) so it is still fresh in my mind!

****************

The aquarium in Baltimore is really great and I love the inner-harbor area. rest of the town not as much but that area is really nice!

Good luck to Andrew with the Boat - hope it works out and passes all the test

glad your quick trip down to WDW worked out and that Aria is doing so great ... 'course at this point she is getting to be a pro!

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Yes - I went to grad school at Johns Hopkins and we couldn't wait to leave. It is nice to visit though, esp with my friend's house location!

Boat Sea Trial is tomorrow!! EEK! The plan is for me to drive down with DH and two of his co-workers who are super into boats. Then the three of them are going to drive it back home (Andrew is guessing it'll be a 4-5 hour boat ride), while I drive the car back. Aria will go to daycare. I plan to pick her up and bring dinner & wine and surprise Andrew at the docks (hopefully kicking his co-workers out... ... and having a nice meal on the boat while checking everything out. That is, if it starts in the water and all!

June was a lot of fun. I know Dugette got some really cute video of the girls playing together. I wished we had had more time like that where the girls could play, have pool time, etc. IMO the weather was the #1 issue though - we had SO much rain that even if we had carved out pool time it would have been closed.

That "Celebrating - First in line" button is cute!

"GET UP!!!!" - reminds me of those videos with the crowds trying to get to the A&E meet at Magic Kingdom .... there is no time to fall down and get hurt at Disney!!!!!

Cars Land looks so cool - I hope Disney does something similar in WDW, though not the exact same as I do like that there are some unique things to each park

Aria looks so happy on that Ladybug ride!

Ah, we are thinking of the same "Shoe Trick" for Olivia this August - she is like like 43" and a bit right now and as of now she says she will ride EE with me so need to find shoes that ensure she will hit 44" - guess we can be "bad DISers" together

and again - gotta love splash areas

Yeah a similar feel for Cars land would be cool, with different rides! That'd be awesome. That is so exciting about Olivia riding EE! I can't believe MK is the only day we overlap in parks! Hmmmm maybe Aria will get along so well with you guys I could hop on 7DMT instead of putting her in high heels... LMAO!

Oh, I know you wouldn't intentionally hit someone - I just figure he didn't think strollers could move so fast when he jumped out.


I'm sure everyone is just hoping that if they don't comment you'll end up booking another trip to pass the time!

That is hilarious. Because I have been pricing out a december 4 nighter. Seriously.................

And planning to purchase AP's for just me and Aria next year. But first I have to pay off my CC which has inflated quickly (to be fair, the cruise deposit along with a lot of other stuff like that has been charged to it, but I have been really awful about adding to Aria's wardrobe w/o selling first...).

I almost pulled the trigger yesterday bc I saw a week-long stay at Bonnet Creek (where Khertz stays, right next to CBR!!) on my governement site for like $499. Unfortunately it was gone when I went to book it. I very rarely see that one pop up so was surprised but apparently took too long pricing out SW airfare. Boo!

Anyway, you know me too well. Or maybe I am just way too predictable. I did notice my TiW card expires 1/30/2015 so maybe an early January trip will be in order. We shall see.

 

[TheMaxRebo]

Yes - I went to grad school at Johns Hopkins and we couldn't wait to leave. It is nice to visit though, esp with my friend's house location!

Boat Sea Trial is tomorrow!! EEK! The plan is for me to drive down with DH and two of his co-workers who are super into boats. Then the three of them are going to drive it back home (Andrew is guessing it'll be a 4-5 hour boat ride), while I drive the car back. Aria will go to daycare. I plan to pick her up and bring dinner & wine and surprise Andrew at the docks (hopefully kicking his co-workers out... ... and having a nice meal on the boat while checking everything out. That is, if it starts in the water and all!

June was a lot of fun. I know Dugette got some really cute video of the girls playing together. I wished we had had more time like that where the girls could play, have pool time, etc. IMO the weather was the #1 issue though - we had SO much rain that even if we had carved out pool time it would have been closed.

Yeah a similar feel for Cars land would be cool, with different rides! That'd be awesome. That is so exciting about Olivia riding EE! I can't believe MK is the only day we overlap in parks! Hmmmm maybe Aria will get along so well with you guys I could hop on 7DMT instead of putting her in high heels... LMAO!

Oh cool - I almost went to undergrad at Johns Hopkins but decided against it after not enjoying a stay-over ... but did like the inner harbor

Glad the girls got along well and you/Dugette got a cute video of it - bummer about the rain though

I don't remember all of your days plans but now that we wound up getting 5-day pass instead of a 4-day one so on that Friday 8/29 we aren't set where to go (no ADRs or anything) but thinking MK just as that makes the most sense to do a 2nd day at and is rated a green - not sure if that could work too

I am sure we can figure something out so you can get on 7-Dwarfs!

 

[Dugette]

BTMRR was awesome, and we missed it in June (thanks, rain) so it is still fresh in my mind!

I was just thinking about this earlier - sad we missed BTMRR and Splash. Boo rain!!

I plan to pick her up and bring dinner & wine and surprise Andrew at the docks (hopefully kicking his co-workers out... ... and having a nice meal on the boat while checking everything out. That is, if it starts in the water and all!

Good luck with the sea trial. That dinner and wine on the boat sounds really nice! Boy, if I ever find myself in MA, I know who to call for a nice boat ride.

June was a lot of fun. I know Dugette got some really cute video of the girls playing together. I wished we had had more time like that where the girls could play, have pool time, etc. IMO the weather was the #1 issue though - we had SO much rain that even if we had carved out pool time it would have been closed.

Totally agree. So sad that night that we left MK early to go swim and the lightning started on the drive back. I packed 3 swimsuits for Izzy and didn't even get to use one of them! Boo. I was looking at your pre-our-arrival swim pics earlier and sad we missed out. Izzy and Aria probably would have had a blast playing in the water and with that ball together.

That is hilarious. Because I have been pricing out a december 4 nighter. Seriously.................

Well, I suppose your signature does look a little lopsided with only 3 tickers. Also, I'm now realizing that me having an AP is dangerous because I really can't afford to take any more trips (even the cruise is questionable at the moment, but we put down a deposit anyway), but I'm going to want to tag along on all of yours now!

Anyway, you know me too well. Or maybe I am just way too predictable. I did notice my TiW card expires 1/30/2015 so maybe an early January trip will be in order. We shall see.

Hey, it expires the day Aria turns 3...clearly a sign!

I'm really starting to wish we both lived an easy driving distance away from WDW. I feel bad that Izzy had so much fun with Aria (especially towards the end of the trip) and who knows when she'll see her again. My pictures have been floating across our TV as the screensaver (AppleTV), so she keeps seeing pics of her and Aria having fun at Disney.

 

[khertz]

We loved DCA so much on our last trip, and you are really making me wish we were planning another trip! Paxton would just love Carsland. It looks like Aria did as well! Sucks that RSR wasn't up that early though. It's nice to get on first thing in the am without having to worry about a crazy wait.

Bugs Land is like toddler paradise. We had a lot of fun with Paxton there too when we took him at 18 months. Simple rides, but so great for the little ones.

 

[JulieODC]

Bugs Land is SO cute!!! I could see that being a bit hit with DD!

I laughed at your cowboy boot trick!

 

[Imagineer5]

I was just thinking about this earlier - sad we missed BTMRR and Splash. Boo rain!!


Good luck with the sea trial. That dinner and wine on the boat sounds really nice! Boy, if I ever find myself in MA, I know who to call for a nice boat ride.


Totally agree. So sad that night that we left MK early to go swim and the lightning started on the drive back. I packed 3 swimsuits for Izzy and didn't even get to use one of them! Boo. I was looking at your pre-our-arrival swim pics earlier and sad we missed out. Izzy and Aria probably would have had a blast playing in the water and with that ball together.


Well, I suppose your signature does look a little lopsided with only 3 tickers. Also, I'm now realizing that me having an AP is dangerous because I really can't afford to take any more trips (even the cruise is questionable at the moment, but we put down a deposit anyway), but I'm going to want to tag along on all of yours now!


Hey, it expires the day Aria turns 3...clearly a sign!

I'm really starting to wish we both lived an easy driving distance away from WDW. I feel bad that Izzy had so much fun with Aria (especially towards the end of the trip) and who knows when she'll see her again. My pictures have been floating across our TV as the screensaver (AppleTV), so she keeps seeing pics of her and Aria having fun at Disney.

I know - esp now with having to buy a seat for Aria my travel costs doubled. It would be nice to take that cost out, since there are a number of inexpensive hotel options nearby. I really need to be good with $$ right now though instead of book yet another trip...but of course I won't stop watching for good deals either hehe!

We loved DCA so much on our last trip, and you are really making me wish we were planning another trip! Paxton would just love Carsland. It looks like Aria did as well! Sucks that RSR wasn't up that early though. It's nice to get on first thing in the am without having to worry about a crazy wait.

Bugs Land is like toddler paradise. We had a lot of fun with Paxton there too when we took him at 18 months. Simple rides, but so great for the little ones.

Yeah Bugs Land I totally skipped over on my last trip a few years ago, but it was nice to have a bunch of rides we could hop on without a wait that Aria really enjoyed. I want to plan another trip out there but with another day or two for the parks and when Indiana Jones is open...ha!

Bugs Land is SO cute!!! I could see that being a bit hit with DD!

I laughed at your cowboy boot trick!

It's adorable!! Hahaha Yep I felt a *little* bad doing it but not really. Esp for a silly bumper cars ride.

 

[Imagineer5]

Now one of my must-do’s for DCA was the Monster’s Inc ride. It’s another ride I really wish they would bring to WDW as it is great! It takes you through the whole story of the movie, and Aria kept saying “nice monsters!!” and really loved the ride. Bonus – there was no wait!

Door room is so cool!

Our timing was AMAZING this morning (why can’t parks open at 7AM every day!!?) and we came out of the ride and noticed Jake was out meeting kids without a line at all! YAY! Aria yelled “Jake” and ran right over – so sweet! She loves Jake and the Neverland Pirates (can’t wait for Hollywood & Vine in August!!).

(side note: DL photopass has WAY better photo frames than WDW!!)

After this we decided to head towards Cars Land to check on RSR, but first we saw that the It’s a Bug’s Life show had been turned into a preview of Maleficent (3D and all) so we decided to go in and check it out. Looked very scary for Aria but I can’t wait to see it (will prob just buy the movie when it comes out, haven’t had a chance to go out to see it). We got another “that was funnnnnn” all upset at the end of it, and I felt bad for bringing aria in.

(it was in 3D - not sure why I thought it would be a good idea to take photos (non flash of course)

continued in next post!

 

[Imagineer5]

Then we continued on our way – only to see a hugeeeee line almost to the front of Cars Land for RSR – we headed up to the beginning of the line to look for the single rider line only to see that they hadn’t yet opened the ride but it looked like they were getting ready to – and the SR line had only about 5 people in it! I ran over and just as I got there they opened the ride! Again, what timing?!?!! I ran through the line and was on the ride within a minute. WOW! I hope the rumors are true about Cars Land coming to DHS – this ride was so fun. Kind of like Test Track but the theming was wayyyy better. I wish Aria could have ridden though as she would have really enjoyed it.

Pics running through the line

Nice empty SR line to the left!

And right on!

I liked how once you are on the ride, it's hard to see any of the rest of the park. Really immerses you in the desert!

It started out themed inside seeing the Radiator Springs town and then moved outside to the race track.

Lightning & Mater congratulating us on a great race

After this it was time to head over for the first Disney Junior – Live on Stage! show! The show was fun though Aria was maybe getting hungry or something because she wasn’t really into it. She just wanted to sit in my lap and watch vs. dance around like the other kids. Oh well!

She did enjoy the gold dubloons!

After the show we had a little time before lunch so we headed back to Paradise Pier (near lunch at Ariel’s Grotto) and rode the carousel. Such a beautiful carousel and it was fun having Aria pick out which animal she wanted to ride. Carousels are always so fun now with how much Aria enjoys them!

Now it was finally time for lunch – we were all very hungry!

continued in next post!

 

[Imagineer5]

There was a bit of a wait to be seated (first a photo with Ariel) so I took Aria to get changed into her princess dress. She then had a major fit and went into time out. Hmmm this might not go so well!

View while we waited (and Aria was in time out)

Luckily I had some dum dum lollipops and decided to use them to my advantage – I promised her one if she would go get a photo with Ariel. LOL! (Hey, it was either that or a screaming toddler, ok!). This ended up working and I did use the tactic a couple more times on the trip (and…maybe twice at WDW in June…). Anyway we got a few photos –

Then were seated outside at a wonderful table. We had a great view of some dancing fountains and saw Goofy “conducting” them a couple times over the course of the lunch. They brought out a crown and some stickers for Aria to play with

(she didn't want to wear it, so I did!)

See conductor goofy??

and immediately brought out a free appetizer for aria – carrot sticks and celery! She was happy!

I ordered a margarita and Lynda ordered some Sangria.

The meal comes with an appetizer sampler, entrée, and a dessert sampler. For my entrée I ordered a vegetarian dish of corn cakes.

They brought out a free kids meal for Aria as well – mac & cheese with gold fish and some fruit.

Lynda ordered a pasta dish with shrimp. We all really enjoyed our meals!

We also had fantastic character interaction – Aurora, Cinderella, Jasmine and Snow White all stopped by during the meal. Aurora is Lynda’s favorite princess so she got a photo with her!

Aria did as well of course, and enjoyed showing each princess where she was on her dress.

Next was Cinderella – she was SO sweet!! Aria gave her some really great hugs and I even caught a smile.

Then came Jasmine who was just OK – she didn’t really have much to say to Aria whereas both Cinderella and Aurora were very chatty with her even though she wasn’t chatty back. Maybe she was miffed she wasn’t on her dress. Hehe.

In between Jasmine and Snow White is when our food came, and then Snow White came over and we got a few photos while waiting for dessert!

continued in next post!

 

[Imagineer5]

They brought out a cute dessert for Aria, delicious ones for us, PLUS a birthday cupcake for Lynda which she was sweet to give to Aria because she had eyes for the sprinkles!

Our desserts were – chocolate covered strawberry, a smores type dessert, and a crème brulee. All delicious.

Lunch lasted until about 1:15 but I wanted to try to get in 1 more ride while Aria was awake so we hopped in line for the golden zephyr. Apparently it goes down a lot, and I noticed it was working so wanted to hop on. It was a fun ride but you can tell Aria is definitely ready for a nap.

So right after that we pulled over to the side and I quickly took off her dress (it was hot!) and laid her down in the stroller. She had her eyes closed within a minute. Lynda hopped in the single rider line for Goofy’s Sky School and then I did the same! She really enjoys the ride whereas I always get a little sick riding it. I almost lost my phone a couple times try to get pics too haha.

Then I hopped in line for the Jumping Jellyfish ride. This is one I wished I hadn’t waited 15 minutes for – it gave nice views of Paradise Pier for a total of 4 seconds and then the ride was over (ok, maybe slightly longer than that but it was pretty ridiculously short!).

Lynda with a sleeping Aria!

Here you can see Goofy's sky school, grand californian on the right and paradise pier on the left.

After this we were on a mission to ride Screamin’! Now it has a single rider line, so Lynda hopped in. Her phone was nearly dead though so I stayed right around there. At one point I left to go find something to drink but after walking in the hot sun only to find a beer stand that served no wine, I headed back and grabbed a water instead. The heat was definitely getting to me at this point! Whew! It was also a bit nerve wracking not knowing where Lynda was since her phone was dead. She did eventually come out though (single rider wait was about 25 minutes) and we switched off and I went to ride. She grabbed her ride photo -

Another 25 minutes or so later (and a very awesome ride) and I came out to find out Aria had just woken up! Grabbed my ride photo -

Continued later on!

 

[Imagineer5]

On a DIS related note, i have made some tweaks to my August trip and am just a few days away now from making my FP+ selections! So I thought i'd share with you my plans! After character meals going so well at Disneyland (and even better at WDW in June) I wanted to add more of those in. AND Dugette and I found out that there is quite the magic band loophole for FP's (actually found out from the DIS so I can't say I'm a bad DIS'er for that). Basically any MB can be used to book FP's in the park, whether they were used for entry or not. And even more surprising, if you have an AP, FP selections can be booked in advance, even if you don't go. Which means, Andrew's MB can be used on this trip despite him staying home. Yep, it works, but not sure for how long as it is a loophole I am surprised Disney hasn't fixed yet.

So day 1 (8/24) we have an early flight, catch ME and am hoping to be at BLT and checked in by 11:30 - if the room isn't ready I'll check Arias little suitcase with bell services and we will hop on a boat to Fort Wilderness! We are doing lunch at Trail's End (new to us) and then a pony ride! Pony Rides are for ages 2 & up and are $5 and I thought that would be a fun and different thing to do before her nap time!

I don't *have* to go to a park this day, but I do plan to make FP selections for the afternoon (from 3-6) at MK anyway, and put Aria to nap in the stroller around 1 or so, so that I can walk over there or maybe head to the pool or something like that. We have dinner at the Wave planned and I am planning on going up to the TotWL this evening as well for watching Wishes. (I'm going to use this opportunity to ask about bringing friends up - I have never had a problem before with the KTTW card showing "DVC Member" on it, but this time I'll just be staying at BLT on rented points so I am not 100% sure how that will work for getting up to TotWL).

I might watch for ADR's coming available at MK this evening vs. the Wave though...

ETA: I just booked a Tony's meal instead (and will plan a Meet Mickey FP & maybe a Meet Tink around that time I think). I *can* get a CRT reservation at the moment, but am just not sure about that one bc we have Akershus planned? I am considering it bc of how much Aria LOVES the castle right now though, so thinking maybe I will? IDK...thoughts??

Day 2 (8/25) We have a before park opening breakfast at CP so I'll be able to get in there for some photos and then we will get breakfast. BF is at 8:10 so we should have plenty of time to still make rope drop! I'm hoping to get in IaSW, Dumbo, Mad Tea Party, and Pirates without FP's and then will FP Enchanted tales with Belle, Peter Pan, Jungle Cruise, Meet Mickey, Meet Cinderella & Rapunzel and the Festival of Fantasy parade. Aria will nap in her stroller today while I walk around/shop/etc but I'm going to try to get her to sleep a little earlier since the parade is at 3. Oh, and lunch *might* be splitting the kitchen sink sundae

After the parade, we will head out for some pool time. We have California Grill planned for tonight, other than that hopefully just enjoy the pool!

Day 3 (8/26) EPCOT opens early at 8 today - this is the one time the new monorail hours will affect us, as we will have to deal with getting a bus this morning vs. taking the monorails over. Not going to be in a huge rush though as I'm sure we can get on LWTL, Nemo, turtle talk, spaceship earth, etc without much of a wait. We have lunch at Coral Reef planned then Aria will nap as I enjoy the World Showcase. Maybe before she naps I'll have to pop into Mexico to grab my favorite maragarita - the passion fruit - from La Cava! Mmm. I'll also probably hop to Spice Road table to have a small appetizer to try it out.

We have dinner reservations at Beaches & Cream then will take the monorail back to BLT. Around 7 the plan is to meet up with The Max Rebo & family to go up to the TotWL to watch Wishes! Hoping Aria enjoys having some kids for company (I am SURE she will!) and it'll be a fun evening. So fingers crossed that I can get up there with a MB and no "DVC Member" KTTW card! (I would honestly think it shouldn't be a problem, if you're staying on points you should be let up there, but we will see).

Day 4 (8/27) I found an early breakfast ressie for Chef Mickeys so excited about that! So we are doing that before heading to MK for the day!

I'm going to try to get FP's for Ariel's ride, meet Ariel, and then meet Anna & Elsa, and do the other rides standby in the morning. Though I might change up the Ariel's ride FP to a 7DMT one...The Max Rebo will also be at MK this day so we are going to try to get A&E around the same time.

We have lunch reservations at LTT (ETA: going to watch for a BOG FP for lunch though, since we haven't done that for lunch), then Aria will nap as we monorail over to EPCOT. We have dinner at Akershus! This was also a later add, but I look forward to getting more princess photos! Maybe stay for Illuminations, but that isn't imperative.

Day 5 (8/28) check out of BLT and into AKL Kidani! Today I'm going to get up and throw all my stuff into suitcases, have bell services come and take them, then head to AK! I plan to get FP's for the Safari, Meet Dug, and the lion king show, and we may try to fit in the finding Nemo show as well.

Around lunchtime we will head out to Kidani, see if room is ready, and go to lunch at Sanaa! Afterwards, Aria will nap in her stroller or the room depending on if it is ready. Hoping to use this time to unpack.

When she wakes up we are going to head to the pool! And enjoy the splash pad! (note to self, put swim suits in backpack for the day just in case luggage doesn't show up right away!). I originally had this whole night free, but I just added in the Mickey's Backyard BBQ! So we'll have to bus to MK and then take a boat to Fort Wilderness. Should be fun though!

ETA (later than my other edits LOL) I just cancelled Mickey's Backyard BBQ and switched to Jiko. I was reading reviews and I thought the characters came around to the tables but it sounds like they meet at the back of the pavilion with a long line, and I don't want to deal with that. So instead I am heading back to Jiko for soon delicious eats. This may change again and I'm def open to suggestions!
Day 6 (8/29) This morning I am planning on an early H&V breakfast - can't wait for Aria to meet Jake again!! Then enjoy DHS (we will prob FP TSMM, GMR, Disney Junior show, LMA show and not sure what else). Want to meet Minnie in her new spot and Sorcerer Mickey. We originally had H&V planned for lunch today, now I'm not sure what to do, maybe go to Pizza Planet as something different, or maybe go to Mama Melrose...hmmm

ETA: Just booked a 50's Prime Time Cafe ADR for 12:10. Thinking we can enjoy some shakes and give it another try.

After lunch we are going to go to DTD - so I'll hop on a bus to SSR I think? And then walk over with Aria sleeping. Do some shopping. We have dinner planned at Raglan Road.

Day 7 (8/30) morning at AK (no FP's, going to save those for MK later), early lunch at Tusker House, possibly head back to Kidani for a little pool time then nap - then head to MK. I plan to get FP for MSEP, Speedway, Barnstormer, not sure what else. We have dinner ADR's for Be Our Guest though!

Day 8 (8/31) we have breakfast reservations at Boma, then hoping to have a little time before we have to leave to go to the pool (need to check on flight times! ETA: just checked and flight leaves at 1:30, so we should have some time for the pool!).

 

[Dugette]

I can't even tell you how much I want to go to Disneyland now!! Monsters Inc. and Radiator Springs Racers and all the single rider lines - looks great! Dug does have a cousin that may well get married in LA sometime in the next few years, so I may have to wait for that chance, though.

Your August trip sounds great! Can I come along? Kidding, but it does sounds really nice and relaxed vs. our quick trip. I hope the weather is better for you and you can get some good pool time in (side note - as long as today's weather holds up - sunny and low 80's - I'm planning to take Izzy to the neighborhood pool after daycare tonight - yay!)

 

[TheMaxRebo]

a lot of those rides at DL look really cool - obviously radiator springs but even like Goofy's Flight School looks fun!

That lunch looks really nice - and seems so unique to have the character dining at an outside seat!

Your August plans sound like they are coming along well and you will be getting to so much great sounding things! Can't wait!

 

[Imagineer5]

I can't even tell you how much I want to go to Disneyland now!! Monsters Inc. and Radiator Springs Racers and all the single rider lines - looks great! Dug does have a cousin that may well get married in LA sometime in the next few years, so I may have to wait for that chance, though.

Your August trip sounds great! Can I come along? Kidding, but it does sounds really nice and relaxed vs. our quick trip. I hope the weather is better for you and you can get some good pool time in (side note - as long as today's weather holds up - sunny and low 80's - I'm planning to take Izzy to the neighborhood pool after daycare tonight - yay!)

Aw hope your pool time was fun - wish we had a neighborhood pool to go to! Yes it is so nice to go for 7 nights, whenever someone asks if 4/5 nights is enough (for a first trip) I tell them to try and stretch it longer because you just don't have ANY relax time then.

I hope for your sake the cousin gets married ASAP!! It is so fun there. Monsters Inc is definitely a favorite, and now RSR is too.

a lot of those rides at DL look really cool - obviously radiator springs but even like Goofy's Flight School looks fun!

That lunch looks really nice - and seems so unique to have the character dining at an outside seat!

Your August plans sound like they are coming along well and you will be getting to so much great sounding things! Can't wait!

Yeah - Ariel's was the best princess meal i've had I think, and the location was so nice and comfortable sitting outside in the shade.

So excited for tomorrow!!

I'm also excited to try out their new system of texting the room # when it is ready and heading right to it vs having to check in. Pretty cool!

 

[Dugette]

Aw hope your pool time was fun - wish we had a neighborhood pool to go to!

We've lived in our house for 7 years and FINALLY used the pool for the first time. However, I have learned that 6 months is too long to go without swimming for Izzy. She used to like swimming (we did lessons last year), but this time she was afraid of the pool. I managed to get her to sit on the step and splash (no zero entry) and every so often, I'd take her out and swirl her around, but she didn't like it at all, when she used to love it. Guess I'll have to keep this up!

 

[Imagineer5]

We've lived in our house for 7 years and FINALLY used the pool for the first time. However, I have learned that 6 months is too long to go without swimming for Izzy. She used to like swimming (we did lessons last year), but this time she was afraid of the pool. I managed to get her to sit on the step and splash (no zero entry) and every so often, I'd take her out and swirl her around, but she didn't like it at all, when she used to love it. Guess I'll have to keep this up!

Oh no!! Yeah just get her used to it again! Maybe bring a ball or something like that!

 

[Imagineer5]

I need advice ASAP!!

The new Harry Potter section opens July 8th - which means it'll officially be open during my August trip. Now, I hadn't intended to go until one of our days in October (while staying at the Beach Club).

Now however I was looking into tickets & hotels and such, because staying onsite gets you early admission into the HP section (1 hour before regular opening) as well as the Express Pass. I started writing down all the rides that Aria can ride, and there are quite a few. It looks like it would be cheaper for me to buy an AP rather than two separate tickets (for August & October) and with that there is a significant discount for an on-site hotel.

If I do that, I need to change the flight (which I checked and I can change it to Monday night for no fees), and get a car, which will be $156. Hotel is $179 and additional cost of AP above the October ticket I was expecting is $160. So that all comes to nearly $500 but we would get basically 2 full days at Universal & IoA to explore the new HP areas - ride Hogwarts Express, Aria can ride the Flight of the Hippogriph, etc.

I worry that our 1 day in October will just not be enough to see it all (and if I added this time on in August, then I could just focus on the two biggie rides - Gringotts & Forbidden Journey in October).

But $500 does seem like a lot for 1 additional night / 2 full days, right? IDK.


ETA: I just looked at adding 2 nights on at the beginning of the trip. Andrew is going out of town Thursday, so it'll just be Aria & me until we leave for Disney on Sunday - so I was looking at leaving Friday morning early - spending Fri & Sat at Universal, staying onsite, then moving to Disney around 11AM Sunday. At least it would give us 1 FULL day there plus most of friday (and even Sunday morning if we want to). I think that is what I want to do....