No Hurricanes Please- A Redemption Trip- November 2018 PTR-Updated 11/17/18 New TR Links

[SweetSerenity]

You are getting SOOOOO close!!!!

We stopped at Baseline this past weekend. It was a perfect place to grab a quick snack and a drink. The pretzel was delish!

I love me some pretzels! I'm on pretzel watch 2018.

So jealous about the AKL stay--it's been on my must-visit list for YEARS! We will be heading to WDW in November, too, and I cannot wait.

That stinks about the hurricane ruining your trip. We're in South Carolina, so we've been on pins and needles this hurricane season, too. We had to cancel a trip to Puerto Rico last year because of the Irma/Maria situation. No fun, but it's better to be safely at home than going through a hurricane on vacation!

I hope you're able to enjoy all of the yummy food at WDW as much as you're able to with the gastroparesis. I'm allergic to shellfish and just discovered a dairy sensitivity recently, so I'm coming to terms with all of the stuff I can't have (chocolate covered everything! Mickey ice cream! nacho cheese sauce!!). I'm trying to focus on what I CAN have (churros, maybe? popcorn?), but it's tough since all of the treats have been one of my favorite parts of visiting Disney World.

Can't wait to hear more about the trip!

Hi! Welcome!

We actually are not staying at AKL anymore. They were doing a pool refurb so Disney offered us The Boardwalk at no additional cost so we are staying there!

I can imagine your worry just living in SC! I hope all the best for you and no upcoming storms.

I'm sorry you won't be able to have all your favorite treats. That's one of the hardest parts to having an allergy or sensitivity is finding out you can't have the things you love. That's good of you to think positively on what you can have. There are so many new snacks at WDW that I'm sure you'll discover something new that you love and can safely enjoy. I so hope you enjoy your trip!!!!!

Did this hurricane just add to your worrying? I hope not.

Ugh, I'm trying not to. It's not that I'm worried about this one, I'm just paranoid about one coming behind it. I don't think I'll get over the anxiety until we are there. It sounds so selfish to worry about a trip, and I don't mean for it to, when so many people have just faced horrible destruction and loss. I pray for relief for Florida and everyone in the path of the storm. I pray the calm comes and stays.

Love it!!!


You may know this already, but just in case you don't, you can sign up for Shula's "Team Shula" club and when its your birthday you get a free entree when you buy another one. Great savings and "convenient" if it just happens to be your birthday.


My other favorite disney time/money saver!


What an awesome surprise. I'm sure he'll love it.

Girl. My friend. I did not know about this Team Shula, but I'm about to look into it right now. Jason's birthday is 10/29 so I can sign him right on up. Or does it have to be right on your birthday? You are just awesome! Thank you for the money-saving trip. Lord knows with all these recent price increases we need it. Thank you!!!!!!

 

[SweetSerenity]

Day 5 Itinerary​

Current Countdown:
Days until vacation: 17
Work days left: 12
Days until Josh Groban concert: 6
Pounds until short-term goal reached: 4

I love October! We are finally getting cooler weather. Friday night, I went out with 7 other girls to my very first haunted woods/house experience. It was so much fun, though I didn't get home until 1:00. Yeah, I don't hang like that anymore. I love watching horror movies and shows so this was right up my alley. I was only startled a few times, but I did make a new friend. He was the most polite demon I've ever met. Very debonair. He stole the soul of someone in our group, but she asked for it back so he called it down and gave it back to her. See? He was so generous! They also had one attraction that was about fairytales, which was one of my favorites. Maleficent was there in dragon form. I think I saw Alice, the Queen of Hearts, and poor poor Ariel. We were going so fast it was hard to take it all in.

According to the Disney Food blog, there are more fall treats available in October like pumpkin ice cream and pumpkin filled churros. These may be gone by the time we get to the parks, but I'm going to try to seek them out. I think I'll do a pumpkin count. I love all the Halloween-themed snacks they have, and I'm slightly disappointed we likely won't see any of them since our vacation doesn't officially start until 11/01. We are used to going in September when everything is bustling fall, but the change over to Christmas will be nice, too.

So, the price increase. It's affecting several of the restaurants where we have ADRS or plan to have QS such as Liberty Tree Tavern and Crystal Palace. While it's not a huge increase, it does add up when you're paying out of pocket for everything and have already set a budget. It may just mean we cut a pricey snack we intended to try.

I mentioned previously about our older dog and her health issues. Well, it happened; thankfully, not while we were away. The good news this time is that she did not have to have surgery. Our vet said she did the work all on her own, and there was nothing left for him to do. So, he gave her a little spa treatment with her nails and ears, sent her home, and my mom (who graciously took her so that we could go to work) stopped and got her a plain biscuit. She thinks she is high-steppin' now. She's doing great, which gives me so much relief.

@kastoney just told me about the Shula's club. I just signed up Jason since his birthday is coming up, but if it expires on 10/31 and our ADR is 11/01, we are out of luck. That's okay, though. We are still going and indulging in steak heaven.

Okay, on to the promise of the itinerary for Day 5.

Monday, November 5th

I wasn't very wise with my decision for this day, but I think it was the only early morning ADR for The Crystal Palace that I could get.
So, breakfast will be at CP at 8:15. I've eaten here quite a bit, but I do think breakfast is the best. I've been an Eeyore fan for as long as I can remember, and I enjoy the character interaction here.

I have no plans for anything specific at MK this day, but we may venture over to Tomorrowland side since we likely will not have made it there yet. Carousel of Progress is one of Jason's favorites so I had CoP shirts made for us. From there, depending on how we feel, we will either go back to the resort to rest for about an hour or we will hop a bus to AKL. Why?

Well, lunch is at Sanaa at 1:30 so we can either take a break in the lobby before lunch or go to our own resort. We'll see. We are both excited to try Sanaa, though.

Then. THEN! It's time for AK.

FP+ #1 for the day is 3:10 at Dinosaur. So, we're not huge fans of this ride, but we'll spend some time over in Dinoland.

FP #2 is. . . Flight of Passage at 5:15. I cannot even tell you how happy I am to get this FP. I thought Avatar was a beautiful creation of a film, and to experience the best part of it? Wow! I'm a little worried about Jason being able to comfortably fit in the leg restraints. He's an EMT who has some serious calf muscles! I don't like to ride things without him, but he has already told me that if it doesn't work out he still wants me to ride it.

Our final FP for the evening is Expedition Everest. I think this will be so fun at night. That starts at 7:00 then we will book it over to try to catch the 7:45 showing of Rivers of Light. We have not seen this yet and while I've heard it's just okay, I'd like to see it once. After that, the park will be closing so we will be herded out with the masses to call it a night.

Until next time!

 

[kastoney]

Girl. My friend. I did not know about this Team Shula, but I'm about to look into it right now. Jason's birthday is 10/29 so I can sign him right on up. Or does it have to be right on your birthday? You are just awesome! Thank you for the money-saving trip. Lord knows with all these recent price increases we need it. Thank you!!!

I don’t recall exactly but I’m pretty sure it was good for a month from the date of issue. We were planning on going after my actual birthday but unfortunately Shulas was closed for refurbishment while we were there.

 

[Dis_Yoda]

Mmmm, Shula’s! We just ate at ours two weeks ago as I had a $250 gift card I won at a charity event. Enjoy your steak!

Day 5 looks good!

I love the AKL-Jambo lobby so that is a good resting spot after Sanaa.

Hope your breakfast is good as well!

 

[SweetSerenity]

The Dining Woes Return

Okay, so, I sat down with Jason to go over our budget for food. We price out everything we think we may want at all the restaurants and snacks, etc. We come to the grand total and he says "How much was the deluxe dining plan?" I don't remember so I look it up and do the math (right now he is laughing and says "tehehe are you telling everyone on the boards what your husband did?" I glared) and it's actually bleeping cheaper if we do the ever-loving DDxP. That even includes paying out of pocket for Yak and Yeti (landry's card), Raglan Road (10/31), and Il Mulino (non-participant.) UGH! Never have I been 17 days out and so disorganized when I thought I was organized. We would have to actually add some ADRs. The DDxP would allow us 27 credits. Right now we have 17 usable credits. I don't know, but I need to make a decision right this second. Friends! I beg you for help! I can't see the logic right now. Can I even add the plan this close?

Signed,
Desperate Diner

 

[Dis_Yoda]

How likely are you to stick to your actual dining plan of what you think you are going to order and what you actually are going to order?

Obviously, I can't speak for you - but what I find is that I typically end up ordering different than what I expect for about 50% of the meals and sometimes even less food as either drinking, previous meals or the heat has changed my opinion on what I want.

The Deluxe Dining Plan is a lot of food. I've done it twice years ago. You still have to pay tip on top of the food prices as well so hopefully you included it.

I know you don't qualify for TIW or AP Discounts.

 

[SweetSerenity]

How likely are you to stick to your actual dining plan of what you think you are going to order and what you actually are going to order?

Obviously, I can't speak for you - but what I find is that I typically end up ordering different than what I expect for about 50% of the meals and sometimes even less food as either drinking, previous meals or the heat has changed my opinion on what I want.

The Deluxe Dining Plan is a lot of food. I've done it twice years ago. You still have to pay tip on top of the food prices as well so hopefully you included it.

I know you don't qualify for TIW or AP Discounts.

My budget did not include drinks of any kind or alcohol, which the DDP does include. I'd say we are 95% on actually sticking to it because I mostly did it with our ADRS. I did include tip estimation and the restaurants we would pay oop for. The difference was still close to $600.

It is a lot of food, likely more than I can eat, but I'm looking at the price difference. We don't have to do all ADRS either. If we do switch over, Shula's will be exchanged for Yachstman, which we do like, Raglan Road will be dropped, and we will reevaluate the others. Poor Marrakesh is on the line! I don't know. It's not that we need more food. . . it's that we currently have less food for more money. I think it's F&W that got us.

 

[Araminta18]

It's getting so close!!! And I'm sorry about your dog, but glad you were there for her and that she's doing great now.

Well, lunch is at Sanaa at 1:30 so we can either take a break in the lobby before lunch or go to our own resort. We'll see. We are both excited to try Sanaa, though.

Yay Sanaa!!! You may wanna arrive a little bit early and ask for a window seat, so you can have a good view of the animals.

FP #2 is. . . Flight of Passage at 5:15. I cannot even tell you how happy I am to get this FP. I thought Avatar was a beautiful creation of a film, and to experience the best part of it? Wow! I'm a little worried about Jason being able to comfortably fit in the leg restraints. He's an EMT who has some serious calf muscles! I don't like to ride things without him, but he has already told me that if it doesn't work out he still wants me to ride it.

There's a test seat out front if you want to try it, but the ride seems to be a lot more forgiving than it was when they first opened. Hopefully he's able to ride it!

As far as the Dining plan, that's a hard decision. I'm with @Dis_Yoda in that we ordered way differently than we'd planned to, just either cause our appetite wasn't there because of the heat or different things looked good in the moment..we ended up being a couple hundred dollars under what I'd estimated for food. My biggest thing against the dining plan is that you're locked into the whole appetizer/entree/dessert thing and there isn't a lot of flexibility if you decide you want to order slightly differently. We ended up eating a lot of appetizers as our entrees, with some random add-ons, and that becomes difficult with the dining plan especially if you are trying to save money. I thought it was more freeing to just be able to buy what we wanted without worrying about credits or anything, but whether or not its worth it to you varies from person to person. I think you can add the dining plan up until a day or two before arrival? Not sure though.

 

[StarWarsMomofGirls!]

I love me some pretzels! I'm on pretzel watch 2018.

Morgan is a purest with the Mickey Shaped Pretzel! You HAVE to get that one.

So, the price increase. It's affecting several of the restaurants where we have ADRS or plan to have QS such as Liberty Tree Tavern and Crystal Palace. While it's not a huge increase, it does add up when you're paying out of pocket for everything and have already set a budget. It may just mean we cut a pricey snack we intended to try.

I was going to say, maybe you should cut just one restaurant to counter act the costs but if you upgrade it might be worth it.

I mentioned previously about our older dog and her health issues. Well, it happened; thankfully, not while we were away. The good news this time is that she did not have to have surgery. Our vet said she did the work all on her own, and there was nothing left for him to do. So, he gave her a little spa treatment with her nails and ears, sent her home, and my mom (who graciously took her so that we could go to work) stopped and got her a plain biscuit. She thinks she is high-steppin' now. She's doing great, which gives me so much relief.

So, glad to hear it all resolved it's self before you left. Now you can just worry about those hurricanes.

Well, lunch is at Sanaa at 1:30 so we can either take a break in the lobby before lunch or go to our own resort. We'll see. We are both excited to try Sanaa, though.

Whatever you do, DON't cancel this one!!! It's one of my favorites!!!

I been 17 days out and so disorganized when I thought I was organized. We would have to actually add some ADRs. The DDxP would allow us 27 credits. Right now we have 17 usable credits. I don't know, but I need to make a decision right this second. Friends! I beg you for help! I can't see the logic right now. Can I even add the plan this close?

Sooooo, Normally I would say that the the Deluxe Dinning Plan is way too much food. But you have already planned on ALOT of sit down meals. And I do think that it is designed for folks like you.

They haven't raised the price of the dinning plan yet, right? Which if not, I t probably does make sense to upgrade for you guys.

 

[SweetSerenity]

It's getting so close!!! And I'm sorry about your dog, but glad you were there for her and that she's doing great now.



Yay Sanaa!!! You may wanna arrive a little bit early and ask for a window seat, so you can have a good view of the animals.



There's a test seat out front if you want to try it, but the ride seems to be a lot more forgiving than it was when they first opened. Hopefully he's able to ride it!

As far as the Dining plan, that's a hard decision. I'm with @Dis_Yoda in that we ordered way differently than we'd planned to, just either cause our appetite wasn't there because of the heat or different things looked good in the moment..we ended up being a couple hundred dollars under what I'd estimated for food. My biggest thing against the dining plan is that you're locked into the whole appetizer/entree/dessert thing and there isn't a lot of flexibility if you decide you want to order slightly differently. We ended up eating a lot of appetizers as our entrees, with some random add-ons, and that becomes difficult with the dining plan especially if you are trying to save money. I thought it was more freeing to just be able to buy what we wanted without worrying about credits or anything, but whether or not its worth it to you varies from person to person. I think you can add the dining plan up until a day or two before arrival? Not sure though.

Yes! We will try to arrive early to request a window seat to try to see some animals. Good idea!

No worries, but thank you. I'm actually glad that the polyp went ahead and popped. She feels better, my mom doesn't have that worry while watching her, and I don't have to be concerned it's going to happen and we'll lose her. It was a blessing in disguise.

I didn't think the plan was going to be worth it. Heck, I already had the regular plan added on when I booked, but I canceled it. I was excited about the freedom of eating whatever and whenever, but once we wrote everything out we realized how much we would be using on Food and Wine alone. You're completely right- we may have totally been under that budget, but Jason's view of it was 27 credits plus snacks and it was less than the 18 or so ADRs we had that did not include drinks, appetizers, or desserts. That is a lot of food, but when you're balancing the scale it was tipping the other way.

Morgan is a purest with the Mickey Shaped Pretzel! You HAVE to get that one.


I was going to say, maybe you should cut just one restaurant to counter act the costs but if you upgrade it might be worth it.


So, glad to hear it all resolved it's self before you left. Now you can just worry about those hurricanes.


Whatever you do, DON't cancel this one!!! It's one of my favorites!!!


Sooooo, Normally I would say that the the Deluxe Dinning Plan is way too much food. But you have already planned on ALOT of sit down meals. And I do think that it is designed for folks like you.

They haven't raised the price of the dinning plan yet, right? Which if not, I t probably does make sense to upgrade for you guys.

Oh, I love the big Mickey faces with the cheese, too! My favorites are the cream cheese stuffed pretzels.

Sanaa is not going anywhere!

They did not raise the price of the plan. Stay tuned.

 

[SweetSerenity]

Jason vs. Shannon: the food Showdown​

Okay, rule #1. I will not make any more promises about not tweaking ADRs. I'm a big, fat liar. They're tweaked. It was ugly. Sacrifices were made. I'm ashamed. So ashamed.

My smug husband is sitting on the couch with his gloating face on while I've practically rearranged everything. Score for him. I have never been 17 days out with this much chaos in front of me. I can't handle it. But it's done.

I'd like to say thank you to the three of you for your opinions and help. I value each of you, and thank you for helping me weigh the pros and consequences of the plan.

It was decided that even if we didn't use all 27 credits to maximum degree, we would still be saving a significant amount of money. In the end, it didn't make sense to pay more for 18 credits, snacks, drinks, etc. than 27 full dining credits that included anything we may want plus alcohol or non-alcoholic drinks. This would also offer enough snack credits to mostly use on Food and Wine. Even with my landry's card, visa discount, and coupons that I had it still wasn't enough. With the difference, there is still money left over from the original budget to pay for other things the plan may not cover. I'm not sure I'm settled with it, but I certainly wish I had figured this out months ago. Too much stress. If I was an AP holder or had TIW, those discounts may have tipped the scales in the other direction. As @StarWarsMomofGirls! pointed out, we already had a lot of table services.

I spoke to a wonderful CM, Patrice, who fixed everything for us. I then started rearranging the ADRs. Here is where the sacrifices came in. Raglan Road was not technically on the plan. We really love Cooke's of Dublin so I canceled that. This just gives us more freedom on Halloween night. It's a good thing.

The next thing to go makes me sad. Il Mulino was also not a participant so I canceled it. I was looking forward to it, but it's been replaced with a signature that we have never tried. Another good thing.

Another sad loss is Shula's. Even after I signed up for the club, Jason decided he would rather have Yachtsman since we were on the plan now. He really enjoys it there and since it's our anniversary, I let him have his steakhouse pick.

Alright, for those of you taking bets from the beginning, here goes. The ultimate sacrifice was made. Restaurant Marrakesh had to go. We gave a little eulogy as we said good-bye and laughed that this was the longest it had ever made it. I seriously had every intention of trying it this time. I had a coupon for it, too, but when it came down to it, it no longer fit into the grand plan. Also known as, we had to choose between that and Nine Dragons and Jason chose the latter. I preferred Marrakesh, but I let him have this one choice.

On the positive side, we are eating at 4 signature restaurants, 3 of which we have never tried. We will make this work for us, and since I just paid for it in full there is a little bit of freedom with that.

So, here's the new final ADR list. I think. Who knows.

11/01/18
B- Kona at 9:45*
L Tony's at 3:00*
D- Yachtsman's Steakhouse at 8:50*

11/02/18
B- 1900 Park Fare at 8:20
L- Liberty Tree Tavern at 1:15
D La Hacienda at 7:00

11/03/18
L Yak and Yeti at 12:45
Possible QS
Star Wars Party at 7:00

11/04/18
L Mama Melrose at 12:45
D- Rose and Crown at 6:05

11/05/18
B- Crystal Palace at 8:15
L- Sanaa at 1:30
D- Tiffins at 7:45*

11/06/18
L- Chefs de France at 12:00
D- Paddlefish at 7:15*

11/07/18
B- Bon Voyage at 10:35
Afternoon Tea at 3:05
D- Homecomin' at 7:05

11/08
B- The Wave at 9:00
Possible QS
D- Teppan Edo 7:20

11/09/18
B- Ale and Compass at 7:30*
L- Nine Dragons
D- Narcoossee's at 9:00*

* denotes new addition for DxDP

We still have 2 credits left over, which is fine. We may use one on a QS or grab something to eat before we leave on 11/10. Either way, I'm not going to worry about it anymore. Even if turns out to be too much for me, my husband will enjoy it, and that's also important. Here's hoping it's the best trip ever!

 

[StarWarsMomofGirls!]

First off.... I feel full just reading your list of restaurants!!!! But I think you guys will be happy with all of these places! And if not, you will be eating again soon enough!

11/01/18
B- Kona at 9:45*
L Tony's at 3:00*
D- Yachtsman's Steakhouse at 8:50*

Kona breakfast is booked for us on our trip! The Eggs Benedict and Tonga Toast are both really good! And they have a mimosa Flight that has my name on it!

11/02/18
B- 1900 Park Fare at 8:20
L- Liberty Tree Tavern at 1:15
D La Hacienda at 7:00

I am super interested to see how you like La Hacienda! I want to try a restaurant in Mexico possible on our summer trip.

11/03/18
L Yak and Yeti at 12:45
Possible QS
Star Wars Party at 7:00

Will the possible QS be in AK or HS? If Animal Kingdom I would say try Santuli Canteen or the area in Africa, they have skewers and a curry corn dog!

11/05/18
B- Crystal Palace at 8:15
L- Sanaa at 1:30
D- Tiffins at 7:45*

This will be a super yummy day! Sanaa AND Tiffins!

11/07/18
B- Bon Voyage at 10:35
Afternoon Tea at 3:05
D- Homecomin' at 7:05

Another yummy day! Bon Voyage Breakfast and Homecomin'! Are you guys driving? I think you guys could bring a cooler full of leftovers home with you!!!! OMG, could you imagine!!

11/09/18
B- Ale and Compass at 7:30*
L- Nine Dragons
D- Narcoossee's at 9:00*

We ate at Nine dragons, we actually liked it. Not dyeing to go back, but if it was an option, we would def do it again. Andy and I split some shrimp dish. It was excellent!

We still have 2 credits left over, which is fine. We may use one on a QS or grab something to eat before we leave on 11/10. Either way, I'm not going to worry about it anymore. Even if turns out to be too much for me, my husband will enjoy it, and that's also important. Here's hoping it's the best trip ever!

So, if you have credits left, you can go to the Main Street Bakery and exchange 1 CS credit into 3 snack credits. Don't leave any to waste. You can stock up on Rice Krispie Treats, Cookies, anything that is considered a snack! Bring them home and give them as gifts.

I know you had to switch some restaurants out, but MAN! you have some great options in there still. It will still be an amazing trip!!!

 

[kastoney]

Sounds like you made the right decision with the dining plan. We've never done it (as you know we tend to share a lot of food or just apps) but if you can get more meals and snacks for less money and alcoholic drinks, sounds like a winner to me.

You have some awesome restaurants picked. While I fully expect you to change them again before I come back on here you have a lot of my favs in the mix.

 

[Araminta18]

Okay, rule #1. I will not make any more promises about not tweaking ADRs. I'm a big, fat liar. They're tweaked. It was ugly. Sacrifices were made. I'm ashamed. So ashamed.

MARRAKESH IS GONE, ISN'T IT? I JUST KNOW IT.....

With the difference, there is still money left over from the original budget to pay for other things the plan may not cover.

That's awesome!! Glad you had a wonderful CM who was able to fix everything for you. Sounds like a win all around.

Alright, for those of you taking bets from the beginning, here goes. The ultimate sacrifice was made. Restaurant Marrakesh had to go. We gave a little eulogy as we said good-bye and laughed that this was the longest it had ever made it. I seriously had every intention of trying it this time. I had a coupon for it, too, but when it came down to it, it no longer fit into the grand plan. Also known as, we had to choose between that and Nine Dragons and Jason chose the latter. I preferred Marrakesh, but I let him have this one choice.

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO I KNEW IT. Oh well, this just means you have to keep coming back to Disneyworld until you eventually make it, right? Like as long as you haven't eaten at Marrakesh, you have to always have a Disney trip in the works

11/03/18
L Yak and Yeti at 12:45
Possible QS
Star Wars Party at 7:00

Yak and Yeti is so good! You'll be full, but not too full for the Star Wars party.

11/05/18
B- Crystal Palace at 8:15
L- Sanaa at 1:30
D- Tiffins at 7:45

So much goodness here! I haven't eaten at Tiffins, but Crystal Palace and Sanaa are delicious.

11/07/18
B- Bon Voyage at 10:35
Afternoon Tea at 3:05
D- Homecomin' at 7:05

Ooh, I like your planning, having the Afternoon Tea as a mid-afternoon snack. Also Bon Voyage is *really* good.

 

[Helvetica]

I love the Bon Voyage breakfast so much that I'm going twice this trip. It really is my favorite breakfast.

Hopefully, you're done with the ADRs. I think mine are pretty set, but I guess we'll see if anything opens up.

 

[SweetSerenity]

First off.... I feel full just reading your list of restaurants!!!! But I think you guys will be happy with all of these places! And if not, you will be eating again soon enough!


Kona breakfast is booked for us on our trip! The Eggs Benedict and Tonga Toast are both really good! And they have a mimosa Flight that has my name on it!


I am super interested to see how you like La Hacienda! I want to try a restaurant in Mexico possible on our summer trip.


Will the possible QS be in AK or HS? If Animal Kingdom I would say try Santuli Canteen or the area in Africa, they have skewers and a curry corn dog!


This will be a super yummy day! Sanaa AND Tiffins!


Another yummy day! Bon Voyage Breakfast and Homecomin'! Are you guys driving? I think you guys could bring a cooler full of leftovers home with you!!!! OMG, could you imagine!!


We ate at Nine dragons, we actually liked it. Not dyeing to go back, but if it was an option, we would def do it again. Andy and I split some shrimp dish. It was excellent!


So, if you have credits left, you can go to the Main Street Bakery and exchange 1 CS credit into 3 snack credits. Don't leave any to waste. You can stock up on Rice Krispie Treats, Cookies, anything that is considered a snack! Bring them home and give them as gifts.

I know you had to switch some restaurants out, but MAN! you have some great options in there still. It will still be an amazing trip!!!

We have eaten at Kona for breakfast before. I enjoyed it back then. I heard they have pumpkin pancakes this year. We will see.
I'm interested to see how La Hacienda goes as well. We do not like San Angel, though the restaurant itself is lovely, albeit way too crowded.
QS will likely be AK-- Flame Tree. We may try Satuli Canteen, but we really like Flame Tree.
We are driving! You're right, we could take back so many leftovers!
Jason really wants to try Nine Dragons so we will see how it goes.
Don't worry, we won't waste a single credit. We know you can exchange them for snacks. We may find another breakfast in there somewhere or a lunch on our departure day. We may also use it as a QS or, like you said, more snacks.
I'm pleased with the make up ADRS! It'll all be good!

Sounds like you made the right decision with the dining plan. We've never done it (as you know we tend to share a lot of food or just apps) but if you can get more meals and snacks for less money and alcoholic drinks, sounds like a winner to me.

You have some awesome restaurants picked. While I fully expect you to change them again before I come back on here you have a lot of my favs in the mix.

Haha, you know me so well!

MARRAKESH IS GONE, ISN'T IT? I JUST KNOW IT.....



That's awesome!! Glad you had a wonderful CM who was able to fix everything for you. Sounds like a win all around.


NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO I KNEW IT. Oh well, this just means you have to keep coming back to Disneyworld until you eventually make it, right? Like as long as you haven't eaten at Marrakesh, you have to always have a Disney trip in the works



Yak and Yeti is so good! You'll be full, but not too full for the Star Wars party.



So much goodness here! I haven't eaten at Tiffins, but Crystal Palace and Sanaa are delicious.



Ooh, I like your planning, having the Afternoon Tea as a mid-afternoon snack. Also Bon Voyage is *really* good.

I know, it's so shameful. I guess you're right. The long-term goal will have to be Marrakesh!
Yes, my husband is asking why we have no lunch planned after breakfast, but he doesn't know I have food planned just not in the traditional sense. He's already talking about trying to find good tea. I can't wait!

I love the Bon Voyage breakfast so much that I'm going twice this trip. It really is my favorite breakfast.

Hopefully, you're done with the ADRs. I think mine are pretty set, but I guess we'll see if anything opens up.

I'm glad to know so many people like Bon Voyage breakfast!

 

[SweetSerenity]

Day 6 Plans​

Current Countdown:
Days until Vacation: 13
Days of work left: 8
Days until concert: 1
pounds until vacation goal reached: 3


I think that none of my prior plans are no longer valid since I've changed everything around. I would like to proudly say that I have not changed anything else since my last update. That's something, right?

Our family received some devastating news last night. My mom's significant other of 8 years, who has several types of cancer and a multitude of health problems, was just diagnosed with lung cancer. Unfortunately, his prognosis is 3 months or less. I am heartbroken for his children and for my mother, and I am sorry to see her go through this again. I feel helpless in this situation because, as a caregiver, it is ingrained into my soul to not give up, to try for as long as we possibly can, but I know there is nothing I can do except abide by his wishes and try to help him enjoy the time he has here with us as much as possible. I offered to cancel our trip to be here with them in case they need help, but they assured us they wanted us to go on. We'll see.

I just got back from a doctor's appointment with the gastroenterologist. He came in and told us that I needed surgery. He thinks this will give me great relief, though it's not without consequences. I don't know many details yet, only that I'm trying to see this as a good thing. I certainly don't want surgery, but the possibility of not being sick anymore is amazing. I would be able to discontinue some medicines, too. I will have to have a weird test done first then I will be referred to the surgeon who will make the decision of which surgery is best for me. There are silver linings everywhere! I could be on a normal diet again!

Day 6
Tuesday, November 6th, 2018
Epcot EMH 8-9 a.m.

The goal is to do EMH at Epcot. We have a Soarin' FP at 9:10 so it would be nice to see if we could catch Test Track during EMH if it's open. I plan to walk that morning from the resort and the thought of a near empty WS enthralls me even if it's closed. I often find that the problem with early morning EMH at Epcot is that not everything is open. Maybe I'm wrong. I don't know.

After Soarin' is a FP for Living With the Land or, as I affectionately called it as a child, "the stinky boat ride. My mom loved to ride that over and over again when I was little, and I thought it smelled so bad. I don't mind it so much anymore since it was refurbished. Also, Sunshine Seasons has a seasonal pumpkin bundt cake that I intend to spend one of my many snack credits on. Yum.

Immediately following LWTL is a FP for The Seas with Nemo and Friends. I love the Seas Pavilion. We usually spend a lot of time with the dolphins, which are my favorite animals. One day, I'd like to do the special event with the dolphins, but it's expensive and I'm not ready to cram myself into a wet suit. Back in 2010, we arrived to the pavilion early and they were training the dolphins. We were invited to stay and watch. I ran to the restroom and while I was gone, Jason was sitting next to the glass. One of the dolphins came up and knocked on the glass and waved at him. Really? He gets all the magic.

So, after we find Nemo and help Dory home, it will be time for lunch. Jason is not excited about this one. I'm on the fence. Chefs de France. We did not have a good experience here on our honeymoon, but I'm giving it another chance. Since we are on the dining plan I am thinking about seeing if I can change this to the Eat to the Beat. Why? Because Boyz II Men will be there that night, and it's on my list to see them. I've been a fan since I was 10 and I sang "I'll Make Love to You" to my grandmother because, well, I was 10 and I didn't understand. Man, I remember her face, though.

So, after lunch, we'll just wander around the pavilions until time for the show. Or, we'll take a nap, come back for the show, and then we're off to Disney Springs for dinner at Paddlefish. This was added on after the dining plan change. We have never eaten here, and I am thrilled! Jason's not a big seafood eater except for shrimp, but I love crab. I can't wait to try the offerings!

After dinner, we'll probably be ready to go back to The Boardwalk and relax, maybe swim some since we are sleeping in the next day.

Stay tuned!

 

[Araminta18]

Our family received some devastating news last night. My mom's significant other of 8 years, who has several types of cancer and a multitude of health problems, was just diagnosed with lung cancer. Unfortunately, his prognosis is 3 months or less. I am heartbroken for his children and for my mother, and I am sorry to see her go through this again. I feel helpless in this situation because, as a caregiver, it is ingrained into my soul to not give up, to try for as long as we possibly can, but I know there is nothing I can do except abide by his wishes and try to help him enjoy the time he has here with us as much as possible. I offered to cancel our trip to be here with them in case they need help, but they assured us they wanted us to go on. We'll see.

I'm so sorry!! For him, and for your mother, and for everyone.

I just got back from a doctor's appointment with the gastroenterologist. He came in and told us that I needed surgery. He thinks this will give me great relief, though it's not without consequences. I don't know many details yet, only that I'm trying to see this as a good thing. I certainly don't want surgery, but the possibility of not being sick anymore is amazing. I would be able to discontinue some medicines, too. I will have to have a weird test done first then I will be referred to the surgeon who will make the decision of which surgery is best for me. There are silver linings everywhere! I could be on a normal diet again!

Oosh, hard news too, even if lots of silver linings are embedded.

Your Epcot day sounds great! I like the idea of doing Eat to the Beat. I'm trying to imagine your grandmother's face as you sang to her....I'm imagining some really funny expressions!

 

[SweetSerenity]

I'm so sorry!! For him, and for your mother, and for everyone.



Oosh, hard news too, even if lots of silver linings are embedded.

Your Epcot day sounds great! I like the idea of doing Eat to the Beat. I'm trying to imagine your grandmother's face as you sang to her....I'm imagining some really funny expressions!

Thank you.
I checked on Eat to The Beat, but I don't think it's going to work out. Yes, her face was hilarious!

 

[SweetSerenity]

Days 7 and 8 Plans​

Current Countdowns:
Days Until Vacation: 11
Work Days Left: 7

Last night was the Josh Groban concert. It was pretty phenomenal, but what I don't think I mentioned is that Idina Menzel was there, too. So, yes, I heard both "Do You Want to Build a Snowman?" and "Let It Go" live by the woman herself. Let It Go was sweet because she stopped singing and let the audience sing along. There was a little girl behind us that was joining in. When we got home, J told me that he teared up when the little girl sang because it was so sweet. What a softie.

Day 7
Wednesday, November 7th, 2018
No-Park Day

Jason wanted a built-in rest day where we did not go to the parks so I, reluctantly, agreed.
We are going to sleep in this morning until our 10:35 Bon Voyage breakfast at Trattoria Al Forno. I have heard so many good reviews about this breakfast so I look forward to trying it.

We have no other plans until 3:05 that afternoon so I'm sure we'll hang out around The Boardwalk, maybe go for a swim, go up and rest, and then we are headed over to the Grand Floridian for Jason's 2nd surprise of the trip. We are having afternoon tea. I've mentioned before that he loves to create his own tea blends. While he's not big on fancy sandwiches, I think he will really enjoy this.

After we leave The Grand Floridian, we are headed to Disney Springs for a little shopping before our 7:05 dinner at Chef Art Smith's Homecomin'. This is the ADR I'm most looking forward to. There is so much that we want to try from there that I'm glad that we are on the dining plan so we can try 2 appetizers and dishes.

After dinner, we'll finish up at Disney Springs and head back to the resort for the evening.

Day 8
Thursday, November 8th, 2018
Magic Kingdom and Epcot

We are starting our morning at The Contemporary for breakfast at The Wave. Again, I've heard excellent things about this restaurant and the breakfast buffet.

We will walk over to Magic Kingdom after breakfast and skate toward Frontierland for our first FP of Big Thunder Mountain. You guys know how much I love this. If there's not a crazy line, we will ride this until they get sick of us. @Araminta18, I'm thinking about you and your dizzying 7DMT adventures right now.

After we peel ourselves away from the mountain, we will venture into Fantasyland. Now, I got a FP I've never been interested in before, but I've heard the lines have been long lately and for nostalgic purposes I chose It's a Small World. While we're in Fantasyland, we'll likely do another favorite of PhilharMagic.

Our final FP is for 7DMT. It's not our favorite (sorry, Tiffany!), but it's worth a FP.

Speaking of FP, can someone help me? How do you get more on the app after you've done your 3 for the day? And can you get them for a different park? You used to not be able to do that.

Magic Kingdom is closing at 6:00 for a ticket event, which I'm assuming is the Christmas party so we'll probably leave around 4:00 and go back to the Boardwalk for a break.

Epcot is staying open for EMH until 11:00 that night so I'm sure a rest is important for us.
We have an ADR at 7:20 at Teppan Edo. We love going here, and it's a tradition. We have a few hibachi restaurants at home, but they're not as good.

After dinner, we'll try to catch some late night rides before we call it a night and walk "home" for the evening.