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

[Imagineer5]

Good news is...we are officially going on the Feb 1st cruise! Bad news...well you know what. Oh well - it's going to be Aria's 3rd birthday gift so I should probably stop buying so many presents. I think I'm about 20 gifts in for Christmas & her birthday so far...I need to stop! (no, more like 30...).

Anyway...this time in 2 weeks! Wednesday 8/27!

This morning starts out with an early Chef Mickey's breakfast! This was a later addition after seeing how well Aria was going taking photos with the characters by herself at meals. She is really excited about this one! I am looking forward to the powdered sugar covered french toast. And breakfast potatoes of course!

Thanks to TheMaxRebo posting a photo of his 3 week old baby girl, I felt the need to go tear up over old TR's. Here is Aria's first time at Chef Mickeys.

Then we are off to the MK! We'll make rope drop at 9am - our only plan is to do IaSW, Pooh, Ariel, Barnstormer, Dumbo - whatever we can fit in from Fantasyland without any FP's.

Just for a total recap, here was our FIRST walking to the castle photo! Aria was 8 months old. This is NOT healthy looking over old TR's ugh!

Ok enough baby photos.

Riding the Barnstormer...

Somewhere between 10 to 11, we will meet up with TheMaxRebo's family, and Aria will hang back with his baby Emma, possibly his 2 year old Peter and Judi (or whoever is hanging back I guess) so I can ride 7DMT! Yay! FINGERS CROSSED that it is NOT rainy this morning. I have been on the ride twice, and both times it was hard to see due to very heavy rain.


Then (I can't remember the time exactly, TheMaxRebo?) but we are going to head to Anna & Elsa around 11:30?

A little sneaky peeky from June

And from there, head to use our FP for lunch at Be Our Guest!

This will be our first time doing lunch here. I did pre-select the meals (mainly because there is really only 1 lunch entree that I eat anyway haha). I ordered the turkey sandwich and leek soup! For Aria I ordered her the kid's turkey sandwich with fries and peach applesauce and milk, and I also got myself the souvenier cup for fun. We'll split a strawberry cupcake, too! haha

We are having lunch with TheMaxRebo's family! After lunch, we'll all head over to ride Peter Pan with a FP, and then Aria and I are heading out of the park.

I'm going to lay Aria down in the stroller for nap time, while I hop on a couple monorails over to EPCOT! Once again she will nap and I'll get another shot at Spice Road table, or maybe the Grotto, or maybe just walk around and take in the world showcase. When she wakes up, we'll ride Living with the Land and Nemo

Then head back to the WS to ride "donald's boat" and Maelstrom (whoops, I guess that wasn't the last time I will ride Maelstrom lol!). I also got this cinderella carriage necklace, with the intention of doing Pick a Pearl with Aria for the first time in Japan! So it will either be today or the previous day that we will do that.

The necklace - a cage for a pearl!

Then we have dinner at Akershus! This was also a late addition, and I'm excited for the meal.

Aria's first visit to Akershus

For starters they will bring this out:

"Taste of Norway" - This royal feast begins with some of the finest Scandinavian Seafood, Imported Cheeses, cured and sliced Meats, and a vast selection of Salads and Fruits *

And for my entree I may order this -

Mushroom-stuffed Pasta - with Swiss Chard, Shiitakes, and Parmesan Cream

And we will get a fun dessert platter which I'm sure we will enjoy!

The Royal Chef's Dessert Plate - An assortment of Norwegian-inspired desserts including sweet and savory Chocolate Mousse, Tradition Rice Cream - topped with Strawberry Sauce and Apple Cake with Cardamom Whipped Cream


After dinner, we will head back up to the front of the park, ride Spaceship Earth on our way out, and hopefully get back to the room around 7, having some time to go down to the pool for a bit before bed.

 

[TheMaxRebo]

Sorry that you were able to book the cruise! We will definitely have to get a drink Tuesday night while we watch Wishes!

wow - starting with Chef Mickey's then BOG, and then Akershus - that is a full day of fantasy meals!

I think the plan was to do A&E M&G at around 11 but other than that you are right on

Love the Cinderella's pearl necklace

The old pictures are really cute!

 

[Imagineer5]

Sorry that you were able to book the cruise! We will definitely have to get a drink Tuesday night while we watch Wishes!

wow - starting with Chef Mickey's then BOG, and then Akershus - that is a full day of fantasy meals!

I think the plan was to do A&E M&G at around 11 but other than that you are right on

Love the Cinderella's pearl necklace

The old pictures are really cute!

Hahahha thank you! Yes we will

It'll be a fun filled day for sure! Esp if we can top it off with some pool time. Thanks - I couldn't remember what time your FP's overlapped Judt's and couldn't find it in my messages LOL! That works out great.

Going through the old TR's is so much fun. I have looked most at last June's trip because I made a Shutterfly book after it. I wish I did that for each trip!

 

[disneygirl2785]

I got the Cinderella Coach necklace, with a pick a pearl, as my wedding gift from Caleb! And when I picked my pearl, there were two in there!!! So I also had a ring made! It was really neat!

I kinda took an Aria walk though time in your old reports as I was looking for that Studio J Minnie Ellie you have (That I LOVE )! She still makes some of the same expressions she made when she was a baby! She is precious!

 

[Imagineer5]

I got the Cinderella Coach necklace, with a pick a pearl, as my wedding gift from Caleb! And when I picked my pearl, there were two in there!!! So I also had a ring made! It was really neat!

I kinda took an Aria walk though time in your old reports as I was looking for that Studio J Minnie Ellie you have (That I LOVE )! She still makes some of the same expressions she made when she was a baby! She is precious!

Oohhh that is so neat!! And what a cool extra, to do the ring too!! I was actually thinking about what if there are 2 in there! Now I know what to do!

I couldn't find the time we went to Chef Mickeys and she wore that Minnie ellie! LOL! Actually I htought that was her first time, but then found the one from when she was 8 months old. Too funny! And thank you so much! Everyday life goes by SO fast that it is so easy to forget how, not that long ago, she was just a baby!

 

[Imagineer5]

This time in 1 week... I'll be all checked in for our Southwest flight!! EEK!!

This time in 2 weeks... we may order room service! I need to pack up and check out around 8 and then head to Animal Kingdom. Today we are meeting up with a Facebook friend who has a DD a few months younger than Aria. I am a little apprehensive about this day but I'm sure it will be fun.

Anyway, we have a FP for the Safari at 9:20, so at least there is no reason to run to the back of the park. after the safari, we may head back to Rafiki's and check out the goats and sheep.

From March '13 - safari

From December '13 - maybe we'll see the lions this well again?

At Rafiki's, Aria will love it again!

Then we will split up for a bit as we have a Festival of the Lion King FP! So excited for this one, since we haven't seen it since the refurb!

After the show, we have an 11:30 FP for meeting Safari Minnie & Mickey, and then we will head out to Kidani for lunch at Sanaa. SO excited to eat at Sanaa, it is always an amazing lunch. I do wish their chicken wasn't dark meat, but I love their vegetarian options so it all works out.

Last time we ate here, Andrew and I shared this:

Indian Style Bread service - Choose from four breads, Naan, Roti, Paratha or Paneer Paratha. Choice of three accompaniments. Mint and onion Raita, Cucumber Raita, Coriander Raita,Mango Chutney, Garlic-ginger Pickle, Mango-lime Pickle, Roated Red Bell Pepper Hummus, Tamarind chutney. - $9.99

But instead of 3 accompaniments for $10, we got ALL their accompaniments for maybe $16? IDK. It was AMAZING!! Aria enjoyed trying it all too.

I also HAVE to get the potato and pea samosas.

Potato and Pea Samosas - Served with a choice of Tamarind or Mango Chutney - $7.99

Yes, major pig out here. I hope my friend Amy is ok with eating a TON haha.

Then for my main dish I always get this:

Sanaa Vegetarian Sampler - Choice of Two - Seasonal Greens and Tomatoes, Lentil Dhal, Paneer Tikka, Seasonal Vegetable Wat, or Chana Masala served with Basmati Rice or Five-Grain Pilaf - $16.99

I choose the seasonal greens, and I think the paneer tikka - I always forget but I always tell the server I want the two very spicy ones. Mmm.

For Aria, I'll probably get her the Tandoori Chicken, which comes with an appetizer - they have carrot & celery sticks which she will enjoy, and then a scoop of ice cream which of course she'll love too! Pretty reasonable for $7 IMO!

After lunch, I'm hoping the room is ready. I may stop by the front desk before lunch if I haven't received a text yet, to check in. We are going to part ways now with Amy & her DD and I'll put Aria down for a nap while I unpack. Around 3 I may head to the pool with her still napping in the stroller, or I'll just wait for her to wake up. So excited to spend the afternoon at the pool though!! We'll stay for a bit, then go get cleaned up for dinner at Jiko.

The last time we ate here was March 2013 when we went for a 3-night trip with my mom. That was a tough trip, so I am hoping that our time at AKL goes much smoother this time.

I love this restaurant's ambiance.

From our last visit. This is funny bc i pulled out the same dress for me to wear this time haha!

For starters I may do the Taste of Africa, though it might be a bit similar to the Sanaa set up that I might try something else. The vegetarian "Tibs in Brik" looks good.

As an entree I may give this a shot, if the chicken isn't dark meat.

Tagine Chicken - preserved lemon, artichokes, olives, cinnamon couscous, harissa and saffron jus $34.00 (I think it is dark though, which is why I haven't had it before here). I love tagine cooking, and make something similar at home. Artichokes are probably my favorite vegetable, so I wish they would use chicken breast LOL!

Or maybe I'll get the flatbread instead.

KG's Peri-Peri Roasted Chicken Flatbread - lime chakalaka, lamb chopper cheese and pickled sweet bell peppers $10.00

We will probably go straight to the bathrooms after dinner and go swimming at the Lodge tonight! Then head back to the room for a good night's sleep.

 

[Dugette]

Sorry, I’ve fallen behind on my DIS-ing (but did manage to start an Aulani PTR)!

Yay for another breakfast at Crystal Palace! Hope you get a nice Photopass photographer for your walking to the castle pictures. Making me wish I could do that “traditional” morning this trip, since I did on the other two. Just no way to do that when we only have 2 mornings and other priorities, though. Next time, I guess!

Yeah, what are they thinking doing a parade at 3pm? So difficult with naptimes for most little ones.

Hope CA Grill goes well for you again! I had the goat cheese ravioli once and it was good, but just really, really small. Good luck choosing an entrée!

Oh, wow, they charge for a fridge at Universal?! No, the values don’t charge for them at WDW. My memory is that, before the values had them, they would allow you to request one (free) if you had medical needs and/or baby milk/food needs. Maybe worth checking if Universal has anything like that in place to keep milk for little ones cold? Otherwise, I suppose it’s not too big a deal to buy as you go for a couple days. Bring all your Thermoses! (Or else she can live off of Butterbeer….)

Ugh, I hate that feeling of forgetting something when packing! Hope you figure it out.

I hope you’re able to have a nice snack at Spice Road during naptime! Not sure if it’s the same, but we had the Harissa Chicken Roll during Food & Wine once and really liked it! Wish I had time to go there, but don’t think I will this trip – too many Epcot food priorities! And it’s not even F&W, ha!

Guess I’m going to have to look up what’s going on with the Maelstrom…are they Frozen-ifying it?

Mmmm, Beaches & Cream! I haven’t been there since the ADR’s, but I think I like that. We’ve been lucky to get in there a couple times, but it’s such a gamble when you’re trying to schedule your day.

Hope Aria has a fun time with TheMaxRebo’s kids! Always good to make new Disney-friends at a young age!

Oh, bummer that you’re going on the cruise! (You know what I mean). I’ve been thinking of you and wondering if you said anything, but didn’t see it until now.

Speaking of birthdays, when I called into WDW to take care of a couple things for August, they reminded me that the trip is only 3 weeks before Izzy’s second birthday. So, she gets a birthday button! Not sure if it will get us a free treat at 50’s Prime Time or not… I am thinking I can go light on the birthday stuff too, since this trip serves as a pretty nice gift!

Oh my gosh, look at that little baby Aria! It’s just mind-boggling how fast babies turn into little people!

Okay, now I totally want to see ALL of your walking-to-the-castle pictures, right in a row! But, you’re right, probably not the best way to process your recent news by looking through baby pictures.

I sure hope you can ride the Mine Train without rain this time! As a backup, maybe we can work something out during our MK overlap time on the 30th, if needed.

Haha, there we are! The A&E meet that Izzy didn’t lose her mind about.

I think World Showcase is one of the best uses of naptime! It’s the perfect place for an adult with a stroller to enjoy.

Aaaaah, all these tiny Aria pictures! So fun to look back!

Hope Aria has fun meeting up with your FB friend’s daughter and the day goes well.

Mmmm, Sanaa! We did the full accompaniment thing last time too – great deal! Loved sampling them and finding favorites. Yeah, those samosas are so good too! You can save the leftovers for me, if needed.

Gosh, Sanaa and Jiko in one day?! So much good food! Maybe they can make the dish with chicken breast for you? If not, one of my favorite things ever was the olive flatbread at Jiko, so hopefully the flatbread would be good.

This trip is coming up so soon! Hope you and Aria have some great mother/daughter time!

 

[TheMaxRebo]

love the picture of Aria with the goat (that is apparently doing its morning stretches or something) - she just looks so thrilled

Sanaa is one of the places we have to try one of these trips - AKL just seems so far away that we never really think about it but must remember sometime!

Hope things go well meeting up with your FB friend!

 

[Imagineer5]

Sorry, I’ve fallen behind on my DIS-ing (but did manage to start an Aulani PTR)!

I saw that and plan to click the link today! LOL! I can't wait to follow along for it.

Yay for another breakfast at Crystal Palace! Hope you get a nice Photopass photographer for your walking to the castle pictures. Making me wish I could do that “traditional” morning this trip, since I did on the other two. Just no way to do that when we only have 2 mornings and other priorities, though. Next time, I guess!

Yeah - if you could get a ADR for that monday maybe, but then you'd have to swap out AK...I think Izzy will have more fun there anyway. You'll just have to plan it for your NEXT AP adventure!

Yeah, what are they thinking doing a parade at 3pm? So difficult with naptimes for most little ones.

Yeah it has always been an issue, though I'll admit to never making time for the DHS or AK parades either...

Hope CA Grill goes well for you again! I had the goat cheese ravioli once and it was good, but just really, really small. Good luck choosing an entrée!

I loved it on previous occasions, but last time I think I ordered it as an "entree" so they charged double, and it was awful. Really turned me off to that dish unfortunately!

Oh, wow, they charge for a fridge at Universal?! No, the values don’t charge for them at WDW. My memory is that, before the values had them, they would allow you to request one (free) if you had medical needs and/or baby milk/food needs. Maybe worth checking if Universal has anything like that in place to keep milk for little ones cold? Otherwise, I suppose it’s not too big a deal to buy as you go for a couple days. Bring all your Thermoses! (Or else she can live off of Butterbeer….)

I actually did call a few weeks ago about this - and the response was pretty wishy washy on whether they would give it to me for free. I think if Aria was younger then they definitely would, and I will mention it nicely at check in too in hopes that they comply with the needs of a toddler! I guess I could always say I still pump breast milk and need it for that...I bet that'd shut them up really quickly! (I don't, happy that year of nursing is over lol).

Ugh, I hate that feeling of forgetting something when packing! Hope you figure it out.

I still have no idea what came fleeting through my mind! Ahh!

I hope you’re able to have a nice snack at Spice Road during naptime! Not sure if it’s the same, but we had the Harissa Chicken Roll during Food & Wine once and really liked it! Wish I had time to go there, but don’t think I will this trip – too many Epcot food priorities! And it’s not even F&W, ha!

I think it is the same - I was reading a review (and saw a photo) of the harissa chicken roll on the disney food blog, and they mentioned it's the same delicious one from their booth! yay!

Guess I’m going to have to look up what’s going on with the Maelstrom…are they Frozen-ifying it?

Yes - it hasn't been announced officially yet, but no FP's are available after 9/27 and apparently Norway college program students were told that their positions were going to be moved, and further hiring of Norway college students for the next term is being suspended. While I love Frozen, I HATE this. It is NOT the point of the World Showcase!!

That being said, if the Frozenified Akershus, you better believe I'll be grabbing an ADR...

Mmmm, Beaches & Cream! I haven’t been there since the ADR’s, but I think I like that. We’ve been lucky to get in there a couple times, but it’s such a gamble when you’re trying to schedule your day.

Hope Aria has a fun time with TheMaxRebo’s kids! Always good to make new Disney-friends at a young age!

Oh, bummer that you’re going on the cruise! (You know what I mean). I’ve been thinking of you and wondering if you said anything, but didn’t see it until now.

Speaking of birthdays, when I called into WDW to take care of a couple things for August, they reminded me that the trip is only 3 weeks before Izzy’s second birthday. So, she gets a birthday button! Not sure if it will get us a free treat at 50’s Prime Time or not… I am thinking I can go light on the birthday stuff too, since this trip serves as a pretty nice gift!

OH WOW!! I'll be sure to note it on the 50's ressie!! I didn't realize we were so close to her birthday, though I guess we will be on the cusp of September! Guess I just didn't want to think about summer ending!

Oh my gosh, look at that little baby Aria! It’s just mind-boggling how fast babies turn into little people!

Okay, now I totally want to see ALL of your walking-to-the-castle pictures, right in a row! But, you’re right, probably not the best way to process your recent news by looking through baby pictures.

I know, I want to frame the first photos, but not sure where to stop to frame them and start again? 9 trips? LOL.

I sure hope you can ride the Mine Train without rain this time! As a backup, maybe we can work something out during our MK overlap time on the 30th, if needed.

I'll keep a lookout for a FP around that time so we can both ride it, though I think this is the most strict ride for both having FP's so not sure we'll be able to do a last minute one at the same time...

Haha, there we are! The A&E meet that Izzy didn’t lose her mind about.

I think World Showcase is one of the best uses of naptime! It’s the perfect place for an adult with a stroller to enjoy.

Agreed!! I love perusing the shops, sitting on a bench and people watching, having a good drink - WS is definitely the best!! AK IMO is the 2nd best, with the walking trails to see the animals being all stroller-accessible. DHS is awful, maybe it would be better if they allowed strollers inside One Man's Dream! (still a pet peeve of mine!!).

Aaaaah, all these tiny Aria pictures! So fun to look back!

Hope Aria has fun meeting up with your FB friend’s daughter and the day goes well.

Mmmm, Sanaa! We did the full accompaniment thing last time too – great deal! Loved sampling them and finding favorites. Yeah, those samosas are so good too! You can save the leftovers for me, if needed.

Gosh, Sanaa and Jiko in one day?! So much good food! Maybe they can make the dish with chicken breast for you? If not, one of my favorite things ever was the olive flatbread at Jiko, so hopefully the flatbread would be good.

This trip is coming up so soon! Hope you and Aria have some great mother/daughter time!

I am slightly considering dropping Jiko and just doing the Mara and pool time to have a relaxing night. I'm going to judge that after we do California Grill and see how she does there (though IMO Jiko is much quieter/darker than CG). She has been great in restaurants, but with nothing really standing out on the menu for me it might be a waste this trip. We'll see.

Thank you!! I am sure we will!

love the picture of Aria with the goat (that is apparently doing its morning stretches or something) - she just looks so thrilled

Sanaa is one of the places we have to try one of these trips - AKL just seems so far away that we never really think about it but must remember sometime!

Hope things go well meeting up with your FB friend!

You even have a car!! LOL! You MUST try it!! I think it is a hidden gem of a restaurant! Plus AKL is awesome to tour around as well.

Thank you!

 

[Imagineer5]

A little personal post as to what we've been up to! DH's parent's came yesterday and we took the boat out to dinner! We went to the same restaurant that we had our anniversary dinner, and it was delicious once again. I also took some time at a nearby park - Borderland State Park in Easton, to take some photos of Aria in a princess dress that I wanted to sell but never got photos of her in it. LOL! I'm only about 1/3 of the way through editing the photos so I'll post some this weekend probably, and am also learning more about Lightroom editing at the same time as I wanted to do a bit more to the photos than I previous had used lightroom for!

Anyway pics from last night! Sort of disney related, I got myself a new pair of Merrell's a week ago, and have been trying to wear them in a bit so I can bring them with me!

Aria feeding her Papa some french fries

As for this weekend's plans - NONE!! YAY!! Though with TheMaxRebo's post about the Lego Discovery Center we MAY do 1 family outing, but seriously we are so beat from all the trips and plans. I plan to finish editing my photos though and learn some more Lightroom.

Ok back to the PTR

This time in 2 weeks...Friday 8/29!

This morning starts off fairly early with a before park opening breakfast at Hollywood & Vine! Jake ranks up very high on the list of characters Aria wants to meet (behind Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, Donald and Daisy though of course!). I think she will enjoy seeing Sofia and Doc as well. I remember loving their tater tots here!

Looks like she has always loved Jake! (from last June)

After breakfast, we are going to hop in line to meet Woody & Buzz! We don't have to make the TSMM dash, because we have a FP that opens at 9:15, so instead I thought we could try out meeting them.

Here was our last attempt! When she sat in Woody's lap, then saw Buzz and ran back over to me!

Then we'll ride TSMM, possibly head over to meet Mike & Sully (though I'll be itching to check out Oaken's!), ride the Great Movie Ride, then maybe check out Minnie & Mickey at the animation building.

Aw, here she is riding in her own spot on TSMM last August.

We have a FP at 11 for the Disney Jr. Live, then we do have a FP for VotLM/Muppets or we will head over to meet characters or go to Oaken's - kind of indifferent about going to so many shows.

Oh and just for fun, here is a pic when she threw a tantrum in One Man's Dream!

For lunch we'll check out Pizza Planet - I know Aria will love the theming, and I have yet to meet a cheese pizza I can't eat.

Then we may check out the LMA show after lunch and then head out of the park - we are going to Downtown Disney!

Despite all the closures and construction, I still wanted a little time to enjoy DTD, without making it a full day like I did last August. Aria will nap in the stroller while I pop into various stores. I hope at this point I'll have a good idea for an ornament I want to remember the trip - last year I got that cute Dumbo ornament bc she loved that ride so much.

Aww remember this from last August?

When she wakes up, I'm sure we will spend some time at the lego store and World of Disney, and then we have an ADR for T-REX!

It will be our first time there. She likes dinosaurs so I am hoping she isn't afaid inside! Their menu is huuuuuge but let me see what looks good...

OH yes! To start with I must try their Cotton Tini's!! They pour the martini through a ball of cotton candy! I'll have to steal a little pinch for Aria before it disappears into my drink.

Then I might get mozzarella sticks as an app, because Aria loves those, or maybe their quesadillas.

For a main dish, the Paleozoic Chicken Sandwich sounds interesting: Pizza dough with grilled chicken, lettuce, pepper jack cheese, avocado, tomato and lemon aioli.

After dinner, we will probably head back to Kidani for a little pool time!

Photos of the splash pad from last august...

 

[TheMaxRebo]

I had sworn off of Hollywood & Vine ... and then they had to go and add Sophia and Doc, so might have to go back in the rotation at some point. I think it was largely because I didn't find the food as good as Crystal Palace yet it was lightly more expensive that turned me off of it so much

TSMM definitely seems to be the attraction that FP+ helps the most with - at least as far as avoiding craziness of trying to get a FP- or just get to the line at rope drop etc. Nice to have that secured and just take care of other things

Let me know you you do with the FP+ for Disney Jr Live - from what I read the reserved seating for it doesn't give you a very good view of the stage, but maybe they changed that

When you have little kids it is hard to fine 3 things at MGM to use your FP+ on

 

[Imagineer5]

Most of you have seen these I think, but I'm going to post them anyway

Here are some photos from an impromptu photoshoot I did with Aria last week. I wanted to get some pics of her in these dresses before I sold them LOL!

Not sure what to do exactly with the million photos I have of her, but I may use one or two in her bedroom in addition to the Dalton Lane photos, and probably print a couple for my office too.

 

[Imagineer5]

This time in 2 weeks...Saturday 8/30!

We have no plans for breakfast, so we will just wing that and then head over for the 9AM AK opening. We will not be using FP's this morning as I'm saving them for MK later on, so instead our plan is to go right on the Safari and then from there, maybe Rafiki's or go to Dinoland, and then maybe watch the Finding Nemo show. Keeping it pretty loose in terms of plans, though I'm sure they will firm up after our 1st morning at AK and wanting to do what we didn't have a chance for then.

Oh my goodness, Aria's first time going to Rafiki's!

Seriously?! how cute is she!

And not that we plan to meet Minnie again today, but I couldn't resist this photo.

Oh yes, I remember THIS show! The last time we watched it was our first trip with Aria, and she had a huge blow out in the middle of it and we left early!

After our morning fun, we have a lunch ADR at Tusker House! We had a wonderful time here in June, so I am so excited to return.

From December '12

After lunch we are going to see how things go - I originally planned to head back to the resort for a little pool time then nap, but I'm not sure about having her nap in the room as we want to be at the MK by 4-4:30 and if she naps in the bed she could be out until way later haha! So this I'll play by ear.

This evening we are hoping to see Dugette and her DD Izzy, though they will be on their way out of MK as we enter so we may only be able to grab a quick ride on the TTA. We'll have to text eachother to check on our plans - I am thinking I might head over earlier, letting Aria nap in her stroller, if we can get 7DMT FP's and swap off during nap time maybe.

At 4:30 our plans start to firm up though with FP usage -

We have a FP to meet Tinkerbelle, then we'll ride the Mad Tea Party, and then head to dinner at Be Our Guest!! SO excited for this meal! Last time I had the salmon and it was delicious so I may just get that again!

Last June '13

After that, we'll ride Pooh, Barnstormer, and the Speedway in between dinner and the MSEP & Wishes!

YES finally seeing Wishes from Main St this trip! It's always a must do for me, but Aria has never really enjoyed it much so it has moved down my must do list at least for doing it multiple times haha.

Then we will head out of the park and I'm sure Aria will fall asleep on the quick ride back to Kidani!

 

[Imagineer5]

This time in 2 weeks... Sunday 8/31!!

This is a total BONUS day!! Originally we were leaving this morning, but instead I was able to add another night onto my Kidani ressie, and take advantage of the Frozen Summer Fun at DHS! As soon as it was announced, I was going to nix leaving DHS a few days prior and going to DTD, instead staying for all the fun, but then I thought why not just add another day?? it really wasn't much more - the extra points came to $143 for the night, and the flight was free to change. Extra food for a day won't be that much. Then they announced the premium package and I called up that morning and booked it!

So our plans are to be at DHS for rope drop (9) and we'll be coordinating with Dugette to meet up for the day!! Our plan is to head straight to Oaken's Trading Post and check out all the fun inside, then around 10 go check in for the premium package.

•Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post & Frozen Funland – Inside Soundstage One, Oaken and his cousins have created a Frozen Funland filled with cold weather activities, unique photo opportunities, and more! There’s a frozen pond with ice skating demonstrations, wintertime fun for kids in the “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” play area, a “big summer blowout” with plenty of “Frozen” merchandise, and special “Frozen”-inspired food and beverage offerings.

I think this is hilarious - this is the doorway back outside from the shop.

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I believe they only have Anna & Elsa cupcakes at the evening's dessert party, so I may have to try out this carrot cake Olaf one this morning.

We may or may not do the ice skating. Dugette has said she isn't interested in it, so I may try to do this on our previous day. Aria loves skating (holding hands, she hasn't broken away yet to skate on her own!)

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I'm not sure where this is exactly but look how cute!

Between 10-11 we left our plans open because we aren't sure how long check in will take, but somewhere in there we will go find a spot in the reserved are for the little parade. It comes with unlimited Mickey bars, among other things, so I know we will certainly enjoy waiting! Then at 11 Anna & Elsa will proceed down the Hollywood Blvd, and we'll enjoy all of that!

Anna and Elsa’s Royal Welcome – At 11:00 a.m. each day, Elsa and Anna arrive in Hollywood as part of their goodwill tour of neighboring kingdoms, making their way down Hollywood Boulevard in a horse-drawn sleigh. Kristoff is along for the fun, too, joined by a flurry of skaters, skiiers, ice cutters and more! The entire procession culminates in a special moment at the Sorcerer’s Hat Icon Stage to officially welcome the visiting royalty to this kingdom of Hollywoodland

then head over to TSMM where we have a FP! After TSMM, we have a lunch ADR together at 50's! I haven't had much luck getting a table with the TV set up, but maybe this time??

To start with, either of these sounds amazing -

Beer-battered Onion Rings - and Horseradish Sauce - $6.49
Fried Herb and Garlic Cheese - served warm with Raspberry Sauce and Toasted French Bread - $8.49

For my main dish I usually get the chicken pot pie, but I just saw this on wdwinfo's menu so I may do that instead.

Uncle Dana's Artichoke and Risotta Agnolotti - Pearl pasta with roasted zucchini and crookneck squash with a spicy tomato broth - $16.99



After lunch we may try to ride RnRC/ToT while putting the girls for a nap and then Dugette has plans to walking over to the Boardwalk/EPCOT I think? while I will probably kill some time going into shops and the Animation academy. I really wish there was more to do with a sleeping kid in a stroller at DHS - if you have any tips I'd love to hear them! (I may wander Oaken's again, if strollers are allowed, but I am not sure whether they are or not).

Then we have a FP for Lights Motors Action at 4PM, the show should run 4:20-4:50, and then we are heading over for Characterpalooza! It should be at 5:10 - hoping that time is accurate! So excited to experience our first characterpalooza, but I don't like disorder so I am a bit apprehensive about really getting to see a few characters.

Then we will head back to the Hat for the Frozen Dance party and check that out. At 5:50 we will line up for the 6PM Frozen Sing a Long that we will hopefully have secured a spot for via our premium package. This will be a TON of fun, I've only ever heard great reports about this show!

•For the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sing-Along Celebration – Cool down inside the Premiere Theater, where Anna and Elsa join the Royal Historians of Arendelle for a fun and comedic retelling of the unique history of their Kingdom, filled with delightful, sing-along moments from “Frozen.”

At 6:30 a FP for TSMM opens up so we will head back over that way!

After that, we have a bit of open time - we could go watch the Muppets, VotLM, try and meet Mickey or Minnie or whoever else we want. We also will need to grab dinner somewhere in here - maybe after Characterpalooza. Maybe Aria will still have left overs from lunch or something...

At 8 we will head to the dessert party - hoping for no rain so that it will be in the same spot as the Frozen fireworks viewing, but I won't hold my breath on it! SO excited for this though - Aria is going to be in sugar heaven! As will I. The cupcakes look amazing!

The Frozen fireworks at 9:15 will top off the evening!

 

[Dugette]

I actually did call a few weeks ago about this - and the response was pretty wishy washy on whether they would give it to me for free. I think if Aria was younger then they definitely would, and I will mention it nicely at check in too in hopes that they comply with the needs of a toddler! I guess I could always say I still pump breast milk and need it for that...I bet that'd shut them up really quickly! (I don't, happy that year of nursing is over lol).

Good luck! Maybe emphasizing that she needs whole milk or something? I don't know. If she needed a special milk (soy or something), I could see them doing it. Izzy still nurses once/day right before bed - no pumping needed for that, though, even if she skips a night or I'm gone. But I know what you mean - I don't miss the every-3-hours-or-more stuff! Or the pumping, especially.

OH WOW!! I'll be sure to note it on the 50's ressie!! I didn't realize we were so close to her birthday, though I guess we will be on the cusp of September! Guess I just didn't want to think about summer ending!

Heck, I'm her mom and didn't really realize we were so close until the CM started prompting me for celebration ideas. I guess we do not have the same zeal to celebrate this one (vs. last year) in our household. So, yes, a WDW trip should do! Thanks for adding it to the ADR!

I know, I want to frame the first photos, but not sure where to stop to frame them and start again? 9 trips? LOL.

I guess this calls for a big collage...

I'll keep a lookout for a FP around that time so we can both ride it, though I think this is the most strict ride for both having FP's so not sure we'll be able to do a last minute one at the same time...

Still stalking MDE, but no luck yet.

 

[Dugette]

Love that you can hop on your boat and head to that nice restaurant! Sounds fun! Oh, that's right, I almost forgot about your shoe incident in June...hope these ones are good for you! LOVE the photo shoot of Aria in her dresses! So precious!

Hmmm, if you need someone to share that Olaf cupcake with, I could be convinced.

Yeah, I've only ice skated a handful of times in my life (and it has been a LONG time also), so I don't feel very good about attempting to help Izzy when I probably need help myself. But if you guys want to go while we're there, not a problem - I'm sure we can find ways to amuse ourselves.

I think that sand Olaf is in the parking lot. I know I saw a post about it somewhere and that's what I think they said.

I'm super excited about 50's. It's been on my list forever, but we've never gone. Hope we get a TV table! And I will happily share either (or both) of those appetizers with you - same ones I was thinking of!

Yep, we'll be walking over to Epcot for nap time. I have so many things to eat and drink there!

I just made a FP+ change. I had VofLM at some random time while I was at Epcot, since I had to pick something and didn't intend to use it. However, as of yesterday, Izzy enjoys singing "Under the Sea", so I changed it to 7:20-7:35pm and may actually go, despite it being a show (and Izzy not loving shows previously) - just FYI.

Oh, I ended up watching the Frozen singalong on youtube the other day (with Izzy). I was searching for Disney World videos and that was the first thing that popped up. It was a very good show. Look forward to seeing it in person. It did bore Izzy at times, though, so I think I'll have to come stocked with Dum Dums! And they don't sing "Fixer Upper"!

I think, while you do TSMM, I may try to meet Woody and Buzz - if they're still out - I guess I have no idea what the schedule is - better check!

I have dinner wide open too. It's going to be such a weird eating day. Breakfast, snacks, lunch, major Epcot snacks, dinner (?), boatloads of dessert. I may just give Izzy a pouch and gorge myself on desserts, we'll see. They all look so good!

Looking forward to seeing the fireworks too! Such a fun day!

 

[Imagineer5]

I had sworn off of Hollywood & Vine ... and then they had to go and add Sophia and Doc, so might have to go back in the rotation at some point. I think it was largely because I didn't find the food as good as Crystal Palace yet it was lightly more expensive that turned me off of it so much

TSMM definitely seems to be the attraction that FP+ helps the most with - at least as far as avoiding craziness of trying to get a FP- or just get to the line at rope drop etc. Nice to have that secured and just take care of other things

Let me know you you do with the FP+ for Disney Jr Live - from what I read the reserved seating for it doesn't give you a very good view of the stage, but maybe they changed that

When you have little kids it is hard to fine 3 things at MGM to use your FP+ on

My reply to this never went through on Saturday, boo.

I agree, the food isn't great at H&V, but I love the characters there. Aria knows them so much better than the Pooh characters, though CP is obv a must do!

Yes, it is so nice to have a pre booked TSMM FP (kind of like the Safari at AK, too!). Hopefully the FP location isn't too bad for Disney Jr show, we'll see. I just wanted to avoid waiting too long for it, and I don't think Aria will care where we are.

Yes it is hard - esp when they make the Great Movie Ride a Tier 1?!?!?

Good luck! Maybe emphasizing that she needs whole milk or something? I don't know. If she needed a special milk (soy or something), I could see them doing it. Izzy still nurses once/day right before bed - no pumping needed for that, though, even if she skips a night or I'm gone. But I know what you mean - I don't miss the every-3-hours-or-more stuff! Or the pumping, especially.

I really did not enjoy nursing, and all the pumping - it was driving me crazy always wondering if she was getting enough, or I was pumping enough, and worrying about the frozen milk and what would happen in a power outage, lol! It was just always on my mind. We were both ready to be done when she turned 1, thankfully for me.

Yes I will try to emphasize it (though she doesn't drink whole milk anymore...lol...).

Heck, I'm her mom and didn't really realize we were so close until the CM started prompting me for celebration ideas. I guess we do not have the same zeal to celebrate this one (vs. last year) in our household. So, yes, a WDW trip should do! Thanks for adding it to the ADR!


I guess this calls for a big collage...


Still stalking MDE, but no luck yet.

Do you want to plan on me coming over for the FP (1:45-2:45) and trying to get a rider swap? What time would be best for you to try that? If not just LMK

Love that you can hop on your boat and head to that nice restaurant! Sounds fun! Oh, that's right, I almost forgot about your shoe incident in June...hope these ones are good for you! LOVE the photo shoot of Aria in her dresses! So precious!

Thank you so much!!

YES! I haven't figured out how to fix those shoes, but I hate to throw them away too. I feel like I should contact Merrel about them but just haven't done so.

Hmmm, if you need someone to share that Olaf cupcake with, I could be convinced.

LOL! I think Aria will probably go to town on the frosting for sure! A nice healthy breakfast, followed by unlimited mickey bars and then lunch? Yep I think we will be having a wonderful day!

Yeah, I've only ice skated a handful of times in my life (and it has been a LONG time also), so I don't feel very good about attempting to help Izzy when I probably need help myself. But if you guys want to go while we're there, not a problem - I'm sure we can find ways to amuse ourselves.

I think that sand Olaf is in the parking lot. I know I saw a post about it somewhere and that's what I think they said.

Ahh haha i see!! We will see how we feel and see if we are able to fit it in on our previous day!

I'm super excited about 50's. It's been on my list forever, but we've never gone. Hope we get a TV table! And I will happily share either (or both) of those appetizers with you - same ones I was thinking of!

Well that would work out nicely! Maybe having Izzy's birthday on the ressie will help with the TV table. I think Andrew & I got one wayyy back in like 2007, but not since.

Yep, we'll be walking over to Epcot for nap time. I have so many things to eat and drink there!

I just made a FP+ change. I had VofLM at some random time while I was at Epcot, since I had to pick something and didn't intend to use it. However, as of yesterday, Izzy enjoys singing "Under the Sea", so I changed it to 7:20-7:35pm and may actually go, despite it being a show (and Izzy not loving shows previously) - just FYI.

LOL awesome! I think our plans have changed since we both posted, but we will figure it out!

Oh, I ended up watching the Frozen singalong on youtube the other day (with Izzy). I was searching for Disney World videos and that was the first thing that popped up. It was a very good show. Look forward to seeing it in person. It did bore Izzy at times, though, so I think I'll have to come stocked with Dum Dums! And they don't sing "Fixer Upper"!

Speaking of dum dums...THAT is what was my fleeting "i need to pack" thought!! I realized it yesterday and packed a little baggie of them. On my drive in I realized I forgot chapstick and muslin blankets so I emailed myself those lol.

I think, while you do TSMM, I may try to meet Woody and Buzz - if they're still out - I guess I have no idea what the schedule is - better check!

Don't you have a FP for TSMM??

I have dinner wide open too. It's going to be such a weird eating day. Breakfast, snacks, lunch, major Epcot snacks, dinner (?), boatloads of dessert. I may just give Izzy a pouch and gorge myself on desserts, we'll see. They all look so good!

Looking forward to seeing the fireworks too! Such a fun day!

What are your breakfast plans?

Yes lots of snacks lol! It's going to be fun! Too bad we can't stash some of those mickey bars for later.

 

[Imagineer5]

I was just replying to Dugette about Mickey Bars (they come with our Frozen premium package!) and it reminded me of last night.

After dinner we were all enjoying some ice cream sandwiches and I was talking to Aria about how I can't wait to eat the Mickey Bars at Hollywood Studios while we watch the Frozen parade (she has never actually had one before!). She said mmmm I want to eat a Mickey Bar!! And I replied "I am SO excited, less than a week away!!" And she said "Yes and Daddy Stay Home" (lol, poor Andrew) and he said "Well, I'm going to eat all the ice cream sandwiches while you're gone" and her reply: "Ok, I eat Mickey Bars!"

He is not happy with how Disney-fied this kid is! LOL!


Also, I have almost convinced myself to bring the big City Select stroller.

We took the City Mini to the zoo yesterday, and even Andrew (this was his first time pushing it) said, eh it's okay, but not nearly as nice as the select. With the rental car, there is really NO need for the smaller one except carrying it down the tarmac (which sucks, but IS doable), and getting on the Hogwarts Express at Universal. I have heard reports that some people are able to park their strollers upright on the HE though - so I am trying to confirm that right now.

Anyway, this is my last day of "This time in 2 weeks!" posts. I'm sure you're all very disappointed.

This morning we have a breakfast ADR at Boma, so we will take the nice walk over there. I look forward to their fun offerings.

After breakfast we are going to the pool for a bit! Check out isn't until 11, so I plan to go to the pool until 10:30, then go back to the room to quickly shower & change and then pack the car and head to the airport.

Our flight home is at 1:30, so I bet Aria will nap basically the whole flight. I have a free Southwest drink coupon to keep me occupied, along with an Audible book (I am listening to the Mortal Instruments series).

We should be home around 5PM, and I'm sure Andrew will be very excited to see us and us him!

Even better, it will only be 1 month before we return!

And on that note...4 DAYS UNTIL WE LEAVE!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[TheMaxRebo]

very cute story with the Mickey bars!

Yeah for only 4 days to go! I feel like stroller discussions and debates are more complicated than picking cars at this point!

 

[Imagineer5]

very cute story with the Mickey bars! Yeah for only 4 days to go! I feel like stroller discussions and debates are more complicated than picking cars at this point!

Seriously. I wish someone would just make the decision for me! Ugh!