NEW...DOLPHIN/SWAN..."questions and answers"...tips and hints!

[#1hockeymom]

*at my desk at school*

Good morning everyone!

I also have a points related question. Are you able to upgrade using points for one day of your stay and not all the days?

I have a pile of work here waiting. Have a great week,everyone!
Debbie

 

[joshua4]

LIVE FROM THE SWAN . . .

Good morning all and thanks for the picture Lou -- set the tone for a fun evening. We ended up at Prime Time for 730 dinner. Decided to order two orders of the chicken for the three of us. It was good - nothing exceptional, but we really didn't have high expectations for the food. Definitely enough food ordering this way -- each order comes with 3 pieces of chicken. Our server was a lot of fun and joked with us throughout the night. She even provided a free birthday glowing icecube to me! We drank, we laughed, and at the end of the meal our server Bea showed up with three, as she described them "three day old cupcakes" on plates decorated with her pet names for DS and I -- pumpkin and muffin. Mom's just said "mom" -- our server explained that giving birth to twins my mom deserved the cupcake more than we did. The whole restaurant sang "happy birthday mom" at a considerable volume. We left the rest. full and happy, but that could have been the long island ice tea that I consumed.

Hopped on a boat back at about 850 and as we were pulling away from the dock we saw the fireworks at the end of Fantasmic. Thought our timing could not have been any better, but in fact it did get better. As we were chugging about to get to the boardwalk, we saw the Illuminations fireworks as well -- sort of a poor man's illuminations cruise I guess. Couldn't have planned a double fireworks cruise if I had tried.

Went to Jelly Rolls which was fun and the $1 bud lights went down pretty easy (and let me add that ds and I are not big drinkers, we probably have a drink about once a month at home). We sang, we mocked people who like Neil Diamond music (but in a nice way) and we staggered home about midnight. My sister proclaimed it one of her all time best birthdays. We have vowed that September 7 is now officially and forevermore "our birthday" and will now be celebrated with gusto each year. This works out especially well for me as my real birthday is the same week as my daughter and my husband's birthday.

Today's plan: Get up, have breakfast, pack up the room a bit. Maybe go to the pool and also shop. At 1130 I am off on a mission to Morocco to retrieve three lamb rolls (I am the only one with an AP). We plan on having lunch here and then about 230 the plan is to head off to the Dolphin Fountain to conquer the seven scoop sundae. FL Tours picks us up at 4 (and we have 4pm late check out). Should land in Chicago by 815 and be home in our beds by 9 (no luggage to check in).

So that's the plan. Thanks again for all of your words of wisdom. More later.

Lauren

 

[Mouseteacher]

For Kelli >>>>>> these are the emotions we Pats fans felt yesterday. But, I must say we New Englanders know that Drew is a class act. To top it off, the Sox lost to the Yankees. What a tough day in Beantown!

 

[madge]

they're here! they're here! My 7 day PHP passes arrived via UPS this morning...yay! Unfortunately, so have the mini panic attacks I have just before our vacations :/ Usually 2-3 weeks before we leave, I can't seem to focus on anything but the potential disasters that await us....how is Anna (the toddler) going to behave, react to the rides, characters, noise, etc? will Carter survive the flight (he HATES to fly) without a major meltdown? Will our oldest DS let his attitude rule the day? Those are just for starters...then there's the weather, will everyine be healthy, crowds, etc. While I am not concerned about our stay at the S/D, I wonder if I have screwed up my balcony view by asking for CL access....

Once it's time to start packing, the feeling usually subsides. I just have too much to think about in these days where there isn't much work to do (regarding the trip).

Lauren--your trip sounds like it has been EXACTLY what you all wanted and needed. I know these memories will be with you always {{hugs}} have a safe trip home!

 

[dreamflight99]

Originally posted by Muffy

For folks that don't know about these great vouchers, they are only available at AK counter service. The adult voucher is around 11.00 and the kids voucher is around 6.00. It allows you an entre, beverage, dessert AND a seperate voucher for bottled water and ice cream for later. It must be used on the same day it is purchased. There is some talk of these vouchers being available sometime soon in MK also.
Muffy

I "FORGOT" ALL ABOUT THESE!! I should have used these on our last visit. Darn (plus two)! Do you know "Where" these are available? Are they available at the BBQ (counter service--can't recall the name, not the Flametree) restaurant location? Thanks a million for reminding me about these. I've actually made a "note" to myself for next summer! (LOL).

ozziewags~You are so kind to have DS and friends over for a "home-cooked" meal, with all the trimmings too (Chocolate cake!). What a blessing he is close enough to your home to visit for dinner/weekend. ^_^

Bravo...for your soapbox oration (clapping)~! Genuinely loved every word. Thank you, for being one of the BEST out there. When it comes to teaching, LOVE should be the biggest part of the recipe. You certainly have that covered, along with the 24Kgold heart! Thanks for ALL you continue to do for the children. This world is a better place, because YOU are here.

*me too. Simple Wine Cooler w/DH as we BBQ'd. Life...is sweet.

Kelli...

#1hockeymom~Whew..."7 coaches?!" Outrageous...and surely instigates a "too many chiefs and not enough indians" situation.

Thanks for the nice compliments on my DD. She's a good kid. ^_^

LOL...nearly forgot about the "viewmaster" dessert menu! These are the "little things" I adore about these places, and just makes me eager to return to the MAGIC!

YES...you are able to use points for one day, or 20. You are not required to have enough to use for the entire stay. Call and double-check, but this has always been my understanding.

jgates~ahhh...I LOVE that BOOK! In fact, I love all of SEUSS! (http://members.tripod.com/~TechBabe/places.html it's too long to post). Did you know there are TWO Seuss versions?

One to be read to your baby in Utero:

The other...ANY AGE!

This book always makes me "cry", and feel sentimental, I don't know why? (Now...I'm posting in "Seuss"...LOL)

Sounds as if you had a GREAT TIME at the concert. Enjoy the week!

ladyjayhawk~You're welcome. Your DD "cribs"? I once had a saddlebred who was a terrible Cribber. She chewed the stalls, etc., all the time. Cribbing, was her fav hobby. I fully understand your concerns, and hope my links offered you some peace of mind.

The "student of the week" topic brought back a flood of memories. In DD's parochial school, she was the "Shining Star" for a week in First Grade. I had to bring in a stack of pictures (birth to 5/6), and items which reflected her life to date. The teacher was so sweet, and placed a selection of photos on a board near the door, in a beautiful montage (I took a photo of the display), with her personal belongings on a white shelf underneath. There was a big shining star in the center, with DD's name in the middle. All the photos emanated with sparkles away from the star, like a galaxy of (pixie) stardust. She felt SO special, which was the central purpose of the exercise. I think "I" probably enjoyed it as much/more than DD. The tender years of youth. ^_^

Also, we have brought DD to DL since she was only a month old! She has literally "cut her teeth" on all things DISNEY. When she was "4", we took a cruise on the Big Red Boat, (which was the DISNEY CRUISE back then) before heading to Disney for a month. She LOVED it so...and recalls many specific details of the entire trip.


Disbug~Monday's always seem to be tough around here too. DD wanted to "stay home" with me (LOL). She was half-joking, (I think), as she went about preparing for school. Summer...and all the freedom...is hard to relinquish.

I'm unsure as to the points they are requiring for these upgrades. Before I left for vacation, there were so many different posts reflecting "conflicting" amounts being deducted. How's the coffee?

joshua4~What a great BIRTHDAY you all shared! The events of the entire eve seemed to flow as if planned by the heavens above. DD has some of the Ice Cubes...pretty wild. Double fireworks cruise? (LOL)...Flawless.
You have my mouth watering for the Lamb Roll (I've never had one...but I LOVE Lamb) in Morocco. This will be a MUST DO for next summer. Your plans for today (especially the sundae) sound wonderful. Enjoy every second, and have a SAFE trip back to Chicago. Thanks so much for all your posts LIVE from the SWAN. They have been both entertaining and heartwarming.

mouseteacher~saving the BEST for LAST! (LOL). (JK)

 

[dreamflight99]

GO YANKS!

(Once a Yankee...always, a Yankee).

 

[Muffy]

Originally posted by dreamflight99
I "FORGOT" ALL ABOUT THESE!! I should have used these on our last visit. Darn (plus two)! Do you know "Where" these are available? Are they available at the BBQ (counter service--can't recall the name, not the Flametree) restaurant location? Thanks a million for reminding me about these. I've actually made a "note" to myself for next summer! (LOL).

DF, The vouchers are available at Tusker House, Flametree BBQ and Pizzafaria. When you place your order you can purchase them right at the cash register at the same time! They are a very good deal and well worth looking into for your next visit! Glad to hear all is well in S. Cali!

Ozzie, Your steak dinner sounded great! I'm sure your DS and his friend appreciated a home cooked meal. You're a gem!

Hi Mouseteacher, Disbug and Hockeymom!

Muffy

 

[Mouseteacher]

OOOOkay...DF... I'm accepting those pixs with a wry smile! We did win 2 out of 3!!!

ozzie~ Thanks for your perspective on coaching and school age sports. DS had terrific coaches throughout his high school years. This coach is the Varsity coach and it's DSs first experience with him. We'll see what happens.

madge~ as Lauren's trip winds down, we can now gear up for your trip. I, too, always worry about many things pre-trip so I know how you feel. All will be fine.

Lauren~ What a great evening. I liked your "poor man's" Illumination cruise.

to muffy, disbug, hockeymom, and all sorority sisters and brothers.

 

[dorisdvu]

Originally posted by dreamflight99

dorisdvu~Yes...the "ent. rate and the AP rate" are the same (50% off the rack rate) discount. Both resorts offer the rates. Call and change the ressie from the AP to the ENT. Rate. It should not change the $$.

I currently have a Water View Traditional Room (3 adults, 2 kids) @ $169.00 night. I called to change my ressie from AP to Entertainment and was told that the rate would be $195.00 per night and that I would be better off keeping what I have. The CM said that the $169 rate was really incorrect (s/b more) since I have a water view.

 

[MOM POPPINS]

Hello WDW friends

I don't know where to jump in... you all have been so busy posting. Let's see to keep on topic... Tubbi's has a great price on pizza, it's a great late night snack or dinner if getting in late from the parks. A large pizza was around 10-12$

I was also surprised to read the post of the little one having to weigh in for a football game...

Dreamflight ~ Your DD sounds like a rare gem indeed... I can only hope my 4 DD's will feel the same about me someday. It sounds like you have done a fantastic job raising her

Lauren ~ I am glad you were able to take this trip with your Mom. My Mom has MS, I only wish I could take a trip with her. She is also in a wheelchair and rarely travels. I cannot remember the last time she took a trip anywhere. My Dad takes good care of her, but I know it has been tough over the years. Happy un-birthday to you and your "twin" have a safe trip home

Hello to everyone else.... BTW took little Kirk Jr. to the doctor today and he is 9 POUNDS, he will be 3 months on Thursday. They say he looks good and so far can see no developmental delays. I still look at him and sigh, a sigh of relief from our long journey to get him here. I have been able to stop the heparin shots I have been taking (twice a day in the stomach) I am glad that is over. Would I do it all again..... in a heartbeat.. I am glad he is here and healthy.... but WILL I do it all again.... time will tell but I may have bought my last WDW souvenier

Have a great night everyone

 

[Mouseteacher]

Mom Poppins>>great news about baby Kirk's steady growth. You never know what the future may hold - never say never, they say.

On topic: The coffee at the Swan's lobby lounge is remarkably good.

 

[madge]

BTW took little Kirk Jr. to the doctor today and he is 9 POUNDS, he will be 3 months on Thursday. They say he looks good and so far can see no developmental delays. I still look at him and sigh, a sigh of relief from our long journey to get him here. I have been able to stop the heparin shots I have been taking (twice a day in the stomach) I am glad that is over. Would I do it all again..... in a heartbeat.. I am glad he is here and healthy.... but WILL I do it all again.... time will tell but I may have bought my last WDW souvenier

yay! that is excellent news congrats all around!

 

[Mouseteacher]

madge ~ the picture in your sig made me smile.

 

[dreamflight99]

Just came home w/DD after walking a couple of laps in the mall. She really wanted to show me some items, yet we ended up chatting and walking. What a nice way to share our afternoons. She wants to do it again tomorrow. We may make a "habit" out of this! She is busy w/homework, and has Steel Drum practice this eve. We stopped by Starbucks on the way out, and bought two of the Tazo iced passion fruit lemonade teas...truly hit the spot. I'm still sipping mine, and munching pretzels too (lol).

"OT" (ON TOPIC)....Tubbi's has YUMMY glass~bottled sodas in a WILD variety of flavors, Like cream soda, rootbeer, grape and cherry vanilla! They are a TRUE vacation Treat! I agree w/Mom Poppins too...the PIZZA'S are FAB!

muffy~Thanks so much for the specific info regarding the vouchers @ AK park. I will be planning to use these on our next visit. Sounds like a great deal (everything inclusive too). I appreciate your help with this, as I was thinking she was referring to the "other" vouchers (connections) I have used in the past. I promise to NOT FORGET next summer. ^_^

Mouseteacher~

dorisdvu~sorry about the confusion. You definitely have a GREAT RATE with the AP (wow...water view too). Yet, usually the AP/ENT rate are exactly the same. They both offer 50% off the rack rate. $169 is half of the published rack rate for a STANDARD room. Water views are slightly higher...etc. Call back, and ask for the rate (regular) on a "standard" room vs. a water view room. Then, ask the ENT rate, which should be 50% off these rates. It's always nice to "double-check" just to be sure the CM you spoke with was not confused or made an error. Let me know what you find out. Thanks.

MOM POPPINS~Thank you for the sweet compliments w/regards to my DD. These are the things I always "hope" she feels for me...but it's SO nice to actually "hear" her speak the words. ^_^
BABY KIRK is doing GREAT! And to think what the one Doc said WAY BACK in the beginning. He sure has proved him wrong!
So glad you are off the heparin (painful...ugh) stomach shots. I know he is worth those...and SO much more. Please, give him a kiss from moi. I think of you all so very often, and said extra happy prayers/thoughts for you as I rode the SPACESHIP EARTH!

Soon...you will ALL be there, together on your own family vacation. I can hardly wait to watch as the days peel-away from your counter, and you prepare all "7" of you for the trip.
As for the Souvies....like Mouseteacher wrote..."YOU NEVER, SAY NEVER"! There is only ONE whom knows about these things, so you personally, NEVER truly know. I witnessed a 55 YO woman on T.V. last eve with her hubby, and 5 YO QUADS! Just goes to show you, anything/everything is possible.
Hope Rachel is enjoying school, and everything is getting back to "normal" (whatever that is!). Take care.

madge~I LOVE the Sig picture of the TRICK-OR-TREATER!

TTFN.... enjoy the EVE!

 

[madge]

madge~I LOVE the Sig picture of the TRICK-OR-TREATER!

madge ~ the picture in your sig made me smile.

I was ready for a little pre-trip change. I know it's early, LOL

I was stunned that I was able to actually right-click and get the thing to work

on topic: the oatmeal soap at the S/D is fantastic!

 

[Disbug]

Seems like just a few minutes ago I was rising in the dark to realize the kids were late! Now its 10:30 PM they are in bed (except DD2, the little night owl!) and it's dark outside once again! Wow!

Dreamflight, the cafe was mahvelous! (Columbian is my beverage of choice, but I do like some of the earthy African coffees as well, Sumatran, etc..). I am now sipping Pinot Grigiot since I bought the LARGE bottle for my sister and BIL to enjoy and they did not finish... More for moi!

I have been transferring pics to CD's and designing our first Sigma Delta Coffee mug! Now that I have the technique down, it will come down to what we decide works as a Motto and Logo for us all. I have a circle meeting at my house Thursday and since I am the chairman this year, I have to project an organized image! Woh... wrong woman! What I lack in experience, I make up for in enthusiasm!

Lauren, be sure to post after you get home and settled back in. We are longing to learn about the end of your trip. We went with you remember?

Hi Mouseteacher! So sorry about your "loss" to the Yanks! (But, hey it was only one game, right?) It is starting to feel like fall here as well. But, unlike you I am glad! We get the heat and humidty year round and it is a blessing to have some relief!

Hi to madge (I too love the Trick or treats!) and Muffy, Mompoppins, ozzie, and #1hockeymom! A very happy evening to you all.. Sweet dreams.

 

[ozziewags]

My goodness, my days are busy! Just returned from a school board meeting. Lots of 'not nice' things happening in our district to teachers, in the name of 'saving money'.......like losing our dental insurance in the middle of a contract. What next?
Good to hear from all of you. Interesting about the difference in rates, Doris. Not sure I can help, but it is always a good idea to call and speak to another cm and see what that quote is.
Late here.....night all.

 

[Disbug]

Night all.... stayed up to make a little present for Kimmar's BD tomorrow! Off to bed with me... wish it was a heavenly bed!

 

[karebear1]

Can someone please tell me if the Swan will transfer my luggage to BCV's for my stay? Thank you

 

[jgates]

I believe they do a great job of transferring luggage - I have seen it mentioned several times.

Congrats on Baby Kirks good news!!!!! I am sooo happy things are going well!!!