Oct 2011:The Best Laid Plans of Mice & Kids: Itinerary 2.0 Updated 8/17

[Minnie_Mom]

Welcome to my October 2011 Pre-Trip Report! ​

After lurking on these boards for several years, I finally decided to try my hand at a PTR. I am very excited to begin this journey as it has been something I have wanted to do for a long time.

As I learned in the few journalism classes I had many years ago, the best way to start any story is with the Who, What, When, Where, and Why. So here it goes....

~Who: The Introductions

Our Family

Jonathan, Audrey Anne, Porter, and me aboard the Disney Wonder, Sept. 2010

Audrey Anne and me biking on Castaway Cay, Sept. 2010
​

Let's start with me... I am Emily- A full-time mommy, a part-time pharmacist, and an all-the-time disney lover. As most people on the boards, planing is half the fun for me. I love to plan our trips and try to make them extra special for everyone traveling with us. My first trip to Disney was when I was 18 months old and I am fairly certain I was hooked on this trip. I have returned to WDW several times a child/young adult. Although I tried to convince my husband to go to WDW for our honeymoon, I was unsuccessful. I was, however, successful at convincing him to bring our son, Porter to WDW for his first haircut! I will be the primary planner of this trip with my mom as my consultant. My list of favorites: park- Magic Kingdom, resort- AKL, restaurant - Cinderella’s Royal Table, character- Mickey, and ride- Rock-N-Roller coaster.

Jonathan and Audrey Anne on her 1st birthday, Sept. 2010
​

My husband is Jonathan. Prior to marrying me, he had only been to WDW once as a child. Let’s just say that the trip was not that magical and leave it at that... Needless to say, he was not a real fan of WDW. It was not until our son was born that I was able to talk him into a trip to WDW. Our first trip together was in October 2008 to celebrate our son’s first birthday. While he would not admit that he was immediately hooked, I have not had any trouble convincing him to return to WDW and I often overhear him telling other dads the benefits of a disney vacation. If WDW is my addiction, then golf is his. He can be found on the golf course most anytime he is not at work and has already mentioned packing his clubs for this trip! Jonathan’s list of favorites: park- Magic Kingdom, resort- Pop, restaurant- ‘Ohana, character- Mickey, and ride- Expedition Everest.

Porter on Spring Break, March 2011​

The third traveler is the birthday boy, Porter. This will be his 4th trip to WDW and he will be turning 4 during our trip. He made his first trip to the world in October 2008 to celebrate is first birthday. He loves all things Disney and starts asking when we are going back to “Mickey’s House” the day we get home from vacation. We have not told him about this trip and are debating whether or not to tell him or surprise him once we get there. To say that he is 100% boy would be an understatement, he is full of life, knows no fear, and is always entertaining. Despite being a little firecracker, he is one of the most tenderhearted children I have ever known. Porter doesn’t like for anyone to be hurt or sad and makes sure that I know that he will always be my baby. He is a fantastic big brother who is patient, protective, and loving to his “baby.” Porter list of favorites: park- Magic Kingdom, resort- any place with a “comfy bed”, restaurant- any character dining, character- Peter Pan and Hook, and ride- Splash Mountain.

Audrey Anne on Spring Break, March 2011​

Audrey Anne is our little princess. If her big brother is 100% boy, then she is 110% girl! As soon as her feet hit the ground in the mornings, she asks for her shoes, hair bow, and bracelet. She is a loving little girl who is becoming just as much of a clown as her big brother. She has a bit of a shy side when she is in new situations, but if Porter is with her, she is adjusts quickly. She is a laid back little girl with a big temper. Audrey Anne will be 25 months old when she makes her 3rd trip to WDW in October. Audrey Anne’s list of favorites: park- Magic Kingdom, resort- as long as there is a crib she doesn’t mind, restaurant- any character dining, character(s)- the Fab 5 and the princesses, and ride- Nemo and Cinderella’s Golden Carousel.

Joining us on this adventure will be my parents: Marmee and Poppy.

Audrey Anne, Poppy, Marmee, and Porter on Spring Break, March 2011
​

Marmee and Audrey Anne on Spring Break, March 2011​

Marmee is my planning partner-in-crime. We are always planning a trip somewhere. Jonathan and my dad don’t know it yet, but we are planning a trip on the Fantasy in 2012. Marmee is a school teacher, so her schedule almost always dictates when we can visit WDW. Luckily for us, Porter’s birthday falls during her school district’s Fall Break. As much as I love to plan these trips, I am not sure that I could pull it off without her. She is always thinking of details that I may forget and is fantastic at keeping things organized. She is also like a walking encyclopedia on Disney pin codes. In the our past 5 trips to WDW, we have had a discount every time... Go Marmee! Her first trip to WDW was when I was 18 months old and she plays a large role in my love of Disney. Marmee’s list of favorites: park- Epcot, resort- Grand Floridian, restaurant- Le Cellier, character- Mickey/Minnie, and ride- Tower of Terror.

Porter and Poppy at the Pirates in the Caribbean Party, Sept. 2010​

Poppy works hard and plays hard. He loves spending time with Porter and Audrey Anne and spends his vacation making sure they are having the best time possible! Like my mom, Poppy’s first trip WDW was when I was 18 months old. Every trip he says that we are going somewhere new next year, but he is always the first person on board as soon as Porter asks, “Poppy, when are we going back to Mickey’s House?” Poppy list of favorites: park- Magic Kingdom, resort- AKL, restaurant- 'Ohana (the only one he has ever actually asked to go back to), character- Mickey/Peter Pan and Hook (primarily because Porter loves them so much), and ride- Rock-N-Roller Coaster.

What: Our 4th family trip to WDW

When: October 7-15, 2011


Where: Coronado Springs Resort


Why: Primarily to celebrate Porter’s 4th birthday (Oct 10), but also to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary (Oct 14). Yes, Porter was born just 4 days before our 1st anniversary... talk about a fantastic anniversary present!

One last photo of the entire group

Waiting to board the Disney Wonder, Sept. 2010​

This is only the beginning of our story. I hope that you will all join me as I try to make all of Porter’s dreams come true for his 4th birthday!

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Table of Contents

• What makes a PTR title? Part 1
• What makes a PTR title? Part 2
• Itinerary Revealed
• The Great Stroller Struggle, Part 1: Our WDW Stroller History
• The Great Stroller Struggle, Part 2- The Comparisons
• Family Movie Night: Jake and the Neverland Pirates, Part 1
• Family Movie Night: Jake and the Neverland Pirates, Part 2
• Disney Clearance on the Easter Aisle?!?!?
• Mickey Mail!

• Life Update #1
• October 10: Pirate and Pals Fireworks Voyage... To Be or Not To Be....
• Our party of six becomes EIGHT!
• Porter's Finalized Birthday Plans
• The Great Stroller Debate 2011... Finally Decided
• How Free Dining and Airline Prices Changed Our Trip!
• Itinerary 2.0

 

[nicole3202]

Hi Emily! I'm going to be at dw almost the same time as you, the 7-14 for us and my ds birthday is the 11th! Hunter will be 8! I enjoyed reading your ptr and learning a little about your family and trip. We're staying at the OKW villas. Maybe you can help me plan as this is our first trip. I love how your parents are the Disney enablers... lol!

 

[Minnie_Mom]

Hi Emily! I'm going to be at dw almost the same time as you, the 7-14 for us and my ds birthday is the 11th! Hunter will be 8! I enjoyed reading your ptr and learning a little about your family and trip. We're staying at the OKW villas. Maybe you can help me plan as this is our first trip. I love how your parents are the Disney enablers... lol!

Fantastic! So glad to have at least one reader! Originally, we were going to leave on the 14th, too. Since our anniversary was the 14th, we decided to stay the extra day. I would be happy to help you plan in any way. This PTR will have lots of information re: children, birthdays, and MNSSHP so hopefully it will be helpful to you since your son is also celebrating his b-day during your trip! Are you guys planning on attending MNSSHP?

 

[nicole3202]

We're thinking about it on Thursday night. I saved the MK for our last 2 days based on tour planning advice and the fact that I think they will like it best and I wanted to save the best for last! MNSSHP would make for one long day at the MK, but with a break in the middle I think we can swing it. Anyway the kids can sleep most of the next day! (They also have the next week off from school too)

 

[Minnie_Mom]

We're thinking about it on Thursday night. I saved the MK for our last 2 days based on tour planning advice and the fact that I think they will like it best and I wanted to save the best for last! MNSSHP would make for one long day at the MK, but with a break in the middle I think we can swing it. Anyway the kids can sleep most of the next day! (They also have the next week off from school too)

We are thinking of Thurs. night, too. It just fit into our schedule the best! I'll try to post our schedule along with dining reservations later tonight.

 

[nicole3202]

Here is what I have so far. It's the basics with none of the fluff, lol. I'm looking forward to editing it. I didn't really know what I was doing when I posted it, but it did help to write it all out.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2708175

I still have quite a few maybe's on adrs. Part of it depends on if we get park hoppers or not.

 

[TeresaG]

Hi there!

I'm a fellow long time lurker who just started a Pre-trip report so I figured I'd hop on board.

My DD had her first haircut at Disney too. I still think it's one of my favorite memories.

 

[Minnie_Mom]

Here is what I have so far. It's the basics with none of the fluff, lol. I'm looking forward to editing it. I didn't really know what I was doing when I posted it, but it did help to write it all out.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2708175

I still have quite a few maybe's on adrs. Part of it depends on if we get park hoppers or not.

Read through it last night! Looks like we are going to be in the parks at a lot of the same times! We are getting hoppers, I think it makes the trip easier in October, especially since a non-crowded morning park will get really crowded in the evenings if they are having a parade or show.

Hi there!

I'm a fellow long time lurker who just started a Pre-trip report so I figured I'd hop on board.

My DD had her first haircut at Disney too. I still think it's one of my favorite memories.

Hi... and WELCOME! Don't you just loved first haircuts at Disney. Both of my babies had their first haircuts at MK on their first birthday! It was a fantastic experience and I that I will never forget! I am headed over to check-out your PTR right now!

 

[cgerdon02]

Enjoying your PTR so far! We are also traveling to WDW in October this year! We have taken several one day trips, but this is our first stay at the world! I have enjoyed planning this Vacay soooooo much! Can't wait to see more!

PS your family is beautiful!

 

[Minnie_Mom]

Enjoying your PTR so far! We are also traveling to WDW in October this year! We have taken several one day trips, but this is our first stay at the world! I have enjoyed planning this Vacay soooooo much! Can't wait to see more!

PS your family is beautiful!

Welcome to my PTR!!! Thank you so much... they are my everything! Hooray for your 1st stay in WDW! I can't wait to here more!



Stay tuned everyone for more updates tomorrow... I was planning on getting one up yesterday or today, but as my PTR title indicates... "The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry." And this is no exception. Bad weather last night+ 12 hr shift today + bad weather tonight + no power for until just now + MORE bad weather= no update tonight

Oh, well, there is always tomorrow! At least while I am watching the weather all night, I can get my next few updates written!

Coming up tomorrow... How I picked a PTR title and what were the runner-ups?

 

[TeresaG]

I always say I mean well, but life gets in the way. Especially with young kids. They pretend to have a schedule that you think you've figured out, so you count on doing something during a certain time, and then of course they don't do what they normally do/you expect them to do. Or is that just my kids?

Bad weather stinks. I hate when we lose power. Looking forward to an update.

 

[Minnie_Mom]

I always say I mean well, but life gets in the way. Especially with young kids. They pretend to have a schedule that you think you've figured out, so you count on doing something during a certain time, and then of course they don't do what they normally do/you expect them to do. Or is that just my kids?

Bad weather stinks. I hate when we lose power. Looking forward to an update.

That is so true... so no worries, it's not just your kids! I am praying that we are done with all the bad weather. I think I finally see a little sunshine outside!

 

[Minnie_Mom]

Now that you know the 5 W’s: Who, What, When, Where, and Why of our trip, let me explain the title for my very first PTR. Like any good disboarder, I am a planner. I plan everything. I plan for myself and when I get done with that I plan for my friends and family. My plans are not inclusive of just trips, but extend into a wide variety of my hobbies... trips, parties, play groups, movie nights, meals, etc... AND, if I can plan it all around a theme, even better. All of this being said, no matter how hard I try, my plans always seem to awry.

Exhibit #1: Audrey Anne’s First Birthday Trip to WDW

I wanted to make her day extra fun and what is more fun on your 1st birthday than eating with the princesses....

Getting your very own Cinderella Dessert...

Well.... I guess to Audrey Anne sleeping is more fun

At least Porter had fun...

Ummm, what about fireworks in front of Cinderella's castle for a birthday treat?

Nope, sleeping is still more fun!

Once again, big brother had fun

Exhibit #2: Audrey Anne’s first birthday party

I started planning Audrey Anne’s first birthday the day she was born (this might be a slight exaggeration but you get the idea).

**Sorry to post so many pictures, but I sometimes have a hard time making decisions**

Closer to time for the party, Porter started asking if he could help her blow out the candle. Sounded like a good idea to me. She wouldn’t be able to do it herself and what is sweeter than her big brother helping her?

We got her ready in her highchair...

and lit the candle.

As I turned to pick up Porter,

Audrey Anne put the candle out herself... with her FINGERS! She cried, and I cried, and once our tears were dried, I was able to see that she was fine. Thankfully, she had received no burns whatsoever! So, she did what any 1 year-old would do and happily dug into her cake...

All’s well that ends in cake...

Exhibit #3... Continued in the next post...

 

[Minnie_Mom]

Exhibit #3: The first “Uh,Oh” of this adventure, Porter's birthday...

The original plan for Porter’s birthday was to tour Future World at Epcot during the morning,

have lunch at Le Cellier,

enjoy a little birthday cake,

then return to the resort.

We would spend the afternoon swimming

or napping in preparation for the evening ahead.

After swimming and getting dressed in his cutest pirate themed clothing

(of course little sister has to match),

Porter would find a clue that would be the beginning of a treasure hunt. A clue that would lead him Magic Kingdom.

then the Pirates League,

and ultimately to the Pirate and Pals Firework Cruise. Porter loves all things Captain Hook and Peter Pan so this was a easy choice for a birthday treat.

Like all my well-designed plans... there is always a catch and this is no exception. Originally, when I called about the firework cruise, I was told it ran on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Perfect... Porter’s birthday is on a Monday. But, when I called to book, I was told that there is no Pirate and Pals firework cruise on 10/10  So, original plan is out the window as a b-day plan. Me being me, I called back the following day and was given completely different information. This time the CM that he could see the date in the computer with a 8:45 sail time, but could not book it. Most likely because Disney is waiting to open it once the MNSSHP dates are released and Hallowishes times are scheduled.

So, the original plan is put on hold and I’m just too sad to try to make a back-up plan. Come on Disney and release those party dates!

So you get the idea, I plan and things go wrong. It’s ok. I try to live by the motto of “maximum flexibility.” I’ve learned that every plan is a flexible plan.
Ok, who am I kidding? When things go wrong, it takes a few seconds to mourn the plan that just isn’t going to work out, and then, I tell myself- be flexible! PS- I am still not over the PIrate and Pals Firework Cruise.

To make what could have been a short story into a very long story, this PTR title just seemed to fit perfectly... there are mice and kids and plans that are already going awry!



What were the runner-ups you say?

Well, here are the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd runner-ups...
3rd Runner-Up: Can we go somewhere else this year? Of course not, Porter and Audrey Anne want to go to WDW!

2nd Runner-Up: 101 Ways to Spoil your Children

1st Runner-Up: Yo Ho, Yo Ho, Its a Pirate’s Birthday for Me

So, what do you think? Did I make the right choice?



Coming up next... Our itinerary complete with ADRs... Stay tuned!

 

[TeresaG]

OMG, we are so alike. I'm the exact same way. I plan out everything -everything- almost to a fault. Then I get a little sad when it doesn't go how I hoped (never say 'expect' when you have kids ).

Like, Audrey Anne sleeping through her celebration at Cinderella's castle is SO something my daughter would do.

Her Birthday party was beautiful. Maddie had the same color scheme (well, the pink and green) and she had a pink and green tutu that she wore. I planned out her party from birth too and then... she got sick on her actual day. Poor baby.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they open up the pirate cruise for Porter. Hopefully it'll be soon. I think you've planned out a really great birthday for him!

I like your current title, but my next favorite was
Yo Ho, Yo Ho, Its a Pirate’s Birthday for Me

 

[Minnie_Mom]

OMG, we are so alike.

I'm so sorry that you have been afflicted with Obsessive Planning Disorder, too!

Like, Audrey Anne sleeping through her celebration at Cinderella's castle is SO something my daughter would do.

Her Birthday party was beautiful.

Thank you so much! I love planning parties and it was such a thrill to be able to plan AA's 1st birthday party! Now, if I could only decide about birthday #2!

Maddie had the same color scheme (well, the pink and green) and she had a pink and green tutu that she wore. I planned out her party from birth too and then... she got sick on her actual day. Poor baby.

Bless her heart! I hope she wasn't too sick and was still able to enjoy her special day!

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they open up the pirate cruise for Porter. Hopefully it'll be soon. I think you've planned out a really great birthday for him!

Thanks, I am being to hear a few more people who have heard the same thing about the dates being released after MNSSHP tickets go on sale. So, I am being to feel a little better.

I like your current title, but my next favorite was
Yo Ho, Yo Ho, Its a Pirate’s Birthday for Me

That was my next choice, too!

 

[Minnie_Mom]

Alright, to recap I’ve already given you the 5 W’s and the explanation of the PTR title, so I guess it is now time to reveal our itinerary. This is the undetailed version. I planned to go into more detail for each day as we get closer to the trip!
Please let me know you thoughts and ideas. I am open to any suggestions... except canceling my Le Cellier reservation so you can have it!

Friday, October 7
Morning/Afternoon: Leave.
We are flying. I would prefer to drive (love flying, but would prefer to save the $1300 it is going to cost), but my husband has put a firm foot down!
We haven’t booked our flights yet, so I don’t know what time we are leaving or even what city we are flying out of, just yet.

Evening: DTD to explore and eat at T-Rex. Maybe go for a late night swim.
This is all assuming we get an early flight. However, if history repeats itself, we will be on the last flight out and not arriving until very late. Here’s hoping we are able to make an earlier flight this trip!

Send Porter, my little night owl, to Marmee and Poppy’s room, so I can go to sleep as early as possible.

Saturday, October 8
Morning:
Breakfast: Granola bars in the room
Animal Kingdom for rope drop
We have never seen the opening ceremony at AK and I have heard is is really nice. I would love to see it this trip!

Afternoon:
Lunch: Flame Tree, one of my favorite CS places!
We will try to get a quiet table under the trees that is by the water and overlooks Experdition Everest.
Rest at the resort. Maybe swim?

Evening:
Dinner: Whispering Canyon at 5 pm
We have never eaten here before and I am a little nervous about it. But, I think the kids will enjoy the atmosphere and my dad does LOVE ketchup!
Chip and Dale’s Sing-a-Long or Miniature Golf
We were afraid that since this is a holiday weekend the parks would be pretty crowded this night. So, we thought it would be a great time to check out something new. We have never tried either of these and I think either would be great! If we go with putt-putt, I may change our dinner reservation. Any suggestions?
Go to bed early and rest for a busy Sunday

Sunday, October 9
Morning:
Breakfast: Granola bars in the room, again!
Magic Kingdom for rope drop
I love watching the kids see Mickey and friends coming in on the train. It is one of my favorite moments of all our WDW vacations!
I am a little afraid that this park might be crowded this day, but I don’t think we will be able to stay away any longer.

Porter watching MK Opening Ceremony, November 2009

Audrey Anne watching MK Opening Ceremony, September 2010

Afternoon:
Lunch: Colombia Harbor House or any other CS we happen to be close to when our tummies growl!
Colombia House is my favorite, so I might have to make sure we are in this area around lunch time. But, honestly, I think there are several yummy CS place in MK.
Porter and Audrey Anne nap in park or everyone go to resort to rest/swim
I would love it if we could get naps in the park today, but if not a trip back to CSR will be just fine.

Evening:
Hollywood Studios
Dinner: Mama Melrose at 4:50
This is part of the Fantasmic! Dinner Package. We will probably arrive just in time for our reservation. I have a feeling this park will be pack this evening!
Fantasmic!
My parents and I saw this in 2003, but have not seen it since. Jonathan and the kiddos have never seen it. I have always been a little afraid that it would be too intense for Porter and Audrey Anne. Add this to having to wait so long and I have just never put it on our list! That being said everyone else wanted to see it, so I got out-voted. Oh, well, it is a great show!
Even with the dinner package, I am guessing we will need to wait for as hour or so for seats. We will probably rotate seats and walking with Porter and Audrey Anne.
Head back to CSR and go to bed!

Monday, October 10: Happy Birthday, Porter!
This is one of my favorite days of the year. Not only is it Porter’s birthday, but it is also the day I became a mommy!

Morning:
Breakfast: Granola bars
Breakfast in the room again in an effort to make rope drop!
Epcot: Future World
Try to make it to Epcot for rope drop. We will explore Future World and do whatever Porter wants to do!

Afternoon:
Lunch: Le Cellier at 12:00
We have never eaten here and really wanted to try it. Some might think this is an unusual place to take a 4 year old for his birthday, but Porter loves “fancy” restaurants!
Back to CSR for SWIM TIME
Porter loves to swim so this afternoon will be devoted to the pool and the fun water slide at CSR!

Evening:
The Treasure Hunt begins*
After swimming and getting dressed,
Porter will hopefully find a clue that will be the beginning of a treasure hunt which will lead him to MK, then the Pirates League, and ultimately to the Pirate and Pals Firework Cruise.

Pirates League at 3:30
If they open up later appointments due to MNSSHP this evening, I am going to try to more his appt later in the day, so he can swim a little longer.
Dinner: Casey’s in the MK.
Porter loves Casey’s!
Pirate and Pals Firework Cruise
Porter loves all things Captain Hook and Peter Pan and I have read great reviews of this event, so it was a easy choice for a birthday treat.
*This may not take place if they do not schedule a cruise for this night. I conitnue to get conflicting information, so we’ll see.


Alternative plan


Ummmm.... at this point there is none

Tuesday, October 11
Morning:
Breakfast: Tusker House at 8:00
We love this place... great food, great atmosphere and great character interaction!

Animal Kingdom
It never seems like we get to do everything here so this trip we decided to work in 2 mornings here.

Afternoon:
Lunch: Probably just a snack as we will be full from Breakfast.
Maybe a stuffed pretzel at AK?
Back to the resort to rest or finish at AK

Evening: TBD. Maybe DTD?


Wenesday, October 12
Morning:
Breakfast: Another day, another breakfast in the room or Marmee may want to visit Staring Rolls at DHS
Rope Drop at Hollywood Studios (After all these years, I still want to say MGM)

We learned last year how important rope drop was at this park! We got there right after the park opened and barely got to ride TSM. We won’t make this mistake again!

Afternoon:
Lunch: TBD
Maybe at DHS, maybe at DTD, maybe at the resort
Rest at CSR
Maybe nap at DHS, but I really think that this is one day that both kiddos are going to need afternoon naps.

Evening:
Epcot: World Showcase

Check-in early for our ADR and then explore World Showcase.

Dinner: Rose and Crown at 7:45pm
Beg for a patio and hope for the best! If all goes to plan (Who am I kidding? My plans never work out... hence, the title of my PTR), we will be watching Illuminations as we eat dessert! If no patio seat is available, we will just walk out to the patio to watch!
Illuminations
See above for Illuminations plan.
Good night!


Thursday, October 13
Morning: TBD... Maybe Epcot?
As I get a little further in my planning I will hopefully be able to determine what park we will need to go back to get fit everything in. Lunch will most likely be at chosen park.

Afternoon:
Lunch: TBD
We will eat somewhere in chosen park
Rest, rest, and rest
This is definitely be another day that Porter and Audrey Anne will need to rest! It will be a long night!

Evening:
Dinner: ‘Ohana at 5:00
This is the only must-do item that Jonathan and Poppy request. They love the food here and we have always have good service!

Evening: MNSSHP
When we attended this event in 2008 on Porter’s 1st birthday, he was a little pumpkin.

I am thinking about using their costumes from this past Halloween for MNSSHP this year.

If Porter and Audrey Anne are Peter and Tink, then the rest of us will be Lost Boys.

Any one else have any other ideas? We are a party of 6... 4 adults + Audrey Anne + Porter.

We plan to stay late and party hard.


Friday: October 14: Our 5th Anniversary!
This day is all day MK!

Morning:
Magic Kingdom

Breakfast: Main Street Bakery
Depending on our plan for the day, I would really like to work in breakfast here.

Afternoon:
Lunch: Pecos Bill
We have never eaten here, but I would really like to try it
More Magic Kingdom
We will try to go without naps today, but may need to go back to the resort to rest for a few minutes!

Evening:
Dinner:Cinderella’s Royal Table at 5:30
This is my favorite restaurant at WDW! There is just something about eating inside the castle that is magical. Plus, Porter had a great time here last year and hopefully, Audrey Anne will not sleep through the meal this year!
A little more Magic Kingdom
Hopefully, we will have time for a ride or two between dinner.

Wishes!
If the Wishes! Dessert Party is available, I might try to book it as a thank you to Marmee and Poppy for al their help during our vacation. We probably won’t be very hungry, but oh well!
Say good-bye to WDW and try not to cry too hard...


Saturday, October 15
**These plans hinge on getting a late flight out of Orlando.

Morning:
Breakfast at CSR Food Court
They have great waffles topped with bananas and walnuts... Yummy!
Finish packing. Maybe a morning swim?

Afternoon: Miniature Golf
If we don’t do this Saturday evening, this would be a great time to try it!
Late Lunch/Early Supper: Wolfgang’s CS at DTD
If we have time, we might try to fit in a little shopping

Evening: Head to MCO and fly back home

Sunday, October 16
Start planning our next WDW vacation!

So, this is our tentative plan, thus far. I already see a few problems that I will need to work on. So, we will see what it looks like when all is said and done!


Coming up next... The Great Stroller Struggle...

 

[TeresaG]

Alright, to recap I’ve already given you the 5 W’s and the explanation of the PTR title, so I guess it is now time to reveal our itinerary. This is the undetailed version. I planned to go into more detail for each day as we get closer to the trip!
Please let me know you thoughts and ideas. I am open to any suggestions... except canceling my Le Cellier reservation so you can have it!

Friday, October 7
Morning/Afternoon: Leave.
We are flying. I would prefer to drive (love flying, but would prefer to save the $1300 it is going to cost), but my husband has put a firm foot down!
We haven’t booked our flights yet, so I don’t know what time we are leaving or even what city we are flying out of, just yet.

I always have major anxiety over booking the flights. Part of me can't breath the 'vacation sigh of relief' until they're booked. I like arriving early too. I hate getting the kids up so early but it's better than getting there late (like we did last time -we were all at our wits end by the time we got to our room)

Evening: DTD to explore and eat at T-Rex. Maybe go for a late night swim.
This is all assuming we get an early flight. However, if history repeats itself, we will be on the last flight out and not arriving until very late. Here’s hoping we are able to make an earlier flight this trip!

Send Porter, my little night owl, to Marmee and Poppy’s room, so I can go to sleep as early as possible.

I do the same when we travel with my parents!! LOL!

Saturday, October 8
Morning:
Breakfast: Granola bars in the room
Animal Kingdom for rope drop
We have never seen the opening ceremony at AK and I have heard is is really nice. I would love to see it this trip!

Afternoon:
Lunch: Flame Tree, one of my favorite CS places!
We will try to get a quiet table under the trees that is by the water and overlooks Experdition Everest.
Rest at the resort. Maybe swim?

Evening:
Dinner: Whispering Canyon at 5 pm
We have never eaten here before and I am a little nervous about it. But, I think the kids will enjoy the atmosphere and my dad does LOVE ketchup!
Chip and Dale’s Sing-a-Long or Miniature Golf
We were afraid that since this is a holiday weekend the parks would be pretty crowded this night. So, we thought it would be a great time to check out something new. We have never tried either of these and I think either would be great! If we go with putt-putt, I may change our dinner reservation. Any suggestions?
Go to bed early and rest for a busy Sunday


We've never seen the opening for Animal Kingdom either. We are going to try and get there in time for it this trip too.

Sunday, October 9
Morning:
Breakfast: Granola bars in the room, again!
Magic Kingdom for rope drop
I love watching the kids see Mickey and friends coming in on the train. It is one of my favorite moments of all our WDW vacations!
I am a little afraid that this park might be crowded this day, but I don’t think we will be able to stay away any longer.

Porter watching MK Opening Ceremony, November 2009

Audrey Anne watching MK Opening Ceremony, September 2010

Afternoon:
Lunch: Colombia Harbor House or any other CS we happen to be close to when our tummies growl!
Colombia House is my favorite, so I might have to make sure we are in this area around lunch time. But, honestly, I think there are several yummy CS place in MK.
Porter and Audrey Anne nap in park or everyone go to resort to rest/swim
I would love it if we could get naps in the park today, but if not a trip back to CSR will be just fine.

Love Columbia House. The only other CS we've tried was Casey's. I want to try the others. Maybe this time.

Evening:
Hollywood Studios
Dinner: Mama Melrose at 4:50
This is part of the Fantasmic! Dinner Package. We will probably arrive just in time for our reservation. I have a feeling this park will be pack this evening!
Fantasmic!
My parents and I saw this in 2003, but have not seen it since. Jonathan and the kiddos have never seen it. I have always been a little afraid that it would be too intense for Porter and Audrey Anne. Add this to having to wait so long and I have just never put it on our list! That being said everyone else wanted to see it, so I got out-voted. Oh, well, it is a great show!
Even with the dinner package, I am guessing we will need to wait for as hour or so for seats. We will probably rotate seats and walking with Porter and Audrey Anne.
Head back to CSR and go to bed!

We've never been to Fantasmic either. I've wanted to go, but I worried the kids were too young which was what worried me. This time we decided to go so we'll see.

Monday, October 10: Happy Birthday, Porter!
This is one of my favorite days of the year. Not only is it Porter’s birthday, but it is also the day I became a mommy!

Morning:
Breakfast: Granola bars
Breakfast in the room again in an effort to make rope drop!
Epcot: Future World
Try to make it to Epcot for rope drop. We will explore Future World and do whatever Porter wants to do!

Afternoon:
Lunch: Le Cellier at 12:00
We have never eaten here and really wanted to try it. Some might think this is an unusual place to take a 4 year old for his birthday, but Porter loves “fancy” restaurants!
Back to CSR for SWIM TIME
Porter loves to swim so this afternoon will be devoted to the pool and the fun water slide at CSR!


Le Cellier is really really good! We enjoyed it a lot. We tried to get in this time but they were booked up.

Evening:
The Treasure Hunt begins*
After swimming and getting dressed,
Porter will hopefully find a clue that will be the beginning of a treasure hunt which will lead him to MK, then the Pirates League, and ultimately to the Pirate and Pals Firework Cruise.

Pirates League at 3:30
If they open up later appointments due to MNSSHP this evening, I am going to try to more his appt later in the day, so he can swim a little longer.
Dinner: Casey’s in the MK.
Porter loves Casey’s!
Pirate and Pals Firework Cruise
Porter loves all things Captain Hook and Peter Pan and I have read great reviews of this event, so it was a easy choice for a birthday treat.
*This may not take place if they do not schedule a cruise for this night. I conitnue to get conflicting information, so we’ll see.


This sounds like such a great birthday plan!

Alternative plan


Ummmm.... at this point there is none

Tuesday, October 11
Morning:
Breakfast: Tusker House at 8:00
We love this place... great food, great atmosphere and great character interaction!

Animal Kingdom
It never seems like we get to do everything here so this trip we decided to work in 2 mornings here.

Afternoon:
Lunch: Probably just a snack as we will be full from Breakfast.
Maybe a stuffed pretzel at AK?
Back to the resort to rest or finish at AK

Evening: TBD. Maybe DTD?


We love Tusker House too! I have no CS planned yet. We've ended up at Pizzafari a couple times but I don't want to do it again this time. Maybe we'll try Flame Tree.

Wenesday, October 12
Morning:
Breakfast: Another day, another breakfast in the room or Marmee may want to visit Staring Rolls at DHS
Rope Drop at Hollywood Studios (After all these years, I still want to say MGM)

We learned last year how important rope drop was at this park! We got there right after the park opened and barely got to ride TSM. We won’t make this mistake again!


We learned this lesson the hard way too!

Afternoon:
Lunch: TBD
Maybe at DHS, maybe at DTD, maybe at the resort
Rest at CSR
Maybe nap at DHS, but I really think that this is one day that both kiddos are going to need afternoon naps.

Evening:
Epcot: World Showcase

Check-in early for our ADR and then explore World Showcase.

Dinner: Rose and Crown at 7:45pm
Beg for a patio and hope for the best! If all goes to plan (Who am I kidding? My plans never work out... hence, the title of my PTR), we will be watching Illuminations as we eat dessert! If no patio seat is available, we will just walk out to the patio to watch!
Illuminations
See above for Illuminations plan.
Good night!


Thursday, October 13
Morning: TBD... Maybe Epcot?
As I get a little further in my planning I will hopefully be able to determine what park we will need to go back to get fit everything in. Lunch will most likely be at chosen park.

Afternoon:
Lunch: TBD
We will eat somewhere in chosen park
Rest, rest, and rest
This is definitely be another day that Porter and Audrey Anne will need to rest! It will be a long night!

Evening:
Dinner: ‘Ohana at 5:00
This is the only must-do item that Jonathan and Poppy request. They love the food here and we have always have good service!


I can't believe you got an ADR for O'hana! Lucky you! My DH loves eating there but there are NO available times (or one was at 9:35pm -yea, no).

Evening: MNSSHP
When we attended this event in 2008 on Porter’s 1st birthday, he was a little pumpkin.

I am thinking about using their costumes from this past Halloween for MNSSHP this year.

If Porter and Audrey Anne are Peter and Tink, then the rest of us will be Lost Boys.

Any one else have any other ideas? We are a party of 6... 4 adults + Audrey Anne + Porter.

We plan to stay late and party hard.


MNSSHP is probably SO much fun! We've never been. We went to MVMCP and stayed late and partied hard just this December. It was so much fun.

Friday: October 14: Our 5th Anniversary!
This day is all day MK!

Morning:
Magic Kingdom

Breakfast: Main Street Bakery
Depending on our plan for the day, I would really like to work in breakfast here.


We get breakfast there at least one morning each trip. And this is such a cute picture!

Afternoon:
Lunch: Pecos Bill
We have never eaten here, but I would really like to try it
More Magic Kingdom
We will try to go without naps today, but may need to go back to the resort to rest for a few minutes!

Evening:
Dinner:Cinderella’s Royal Table at 5:30
This is my favorite restaurant at WDW! There is just something about eating inside the castle that is magical. Plus, Porter had a great time here last year and hopefully, Audrey Anne will not sleep through the meal this year!
A little more Magic Kingdom
Hopefully, we will have time for a ride or two between dinner.

Wishes!
If the Wishes! Dessert Party is available, I might try to book it as a thank you to Marmee and Poppy for al their help during our vacation. We probably won’t be very hungry, but oh well!
Say good-bye to WDW and try not to cry too hard...


Saturday, October 15
**These plans hinge on getting a late flight out of Orlando.

Morning:
Breakfast at CSR Food Court
They have great waffles topped with bananas and walnuts... Yummy!
Finish packing. Maybe a morning swim?

Afternoon: Miniature Golf
If we don’t do this Saturday evening, this would be a great time to try it!
Late Lunch/Early Supper: Wolfgang’s CS at DTD
If we have time, we might try to fit in a little shopping

Evening: Head to MCO and fly back home

Sunday, October 16
Start planning our next WDW vacation!

So, this is our tentative plan, thus far. I already see a few problems that I will need to work on. So, we will see what it looks like when all is said and done!


Coming up next... The Great Stroller Struggle...

Sounds like a lot of great plans!!

 

[Minnie_Mom]

Sounds like a lot of great plans!!

Thanks! You should definitely try Flame Tree... it is fantastic!

 

[Minnie_Mom]

The Great Stroller Struggle, Part 1: Our WDW Stroller History

Recently, there has been a lot of “stroller chatter” on a few other PTRs I follow and all this talk has made me start questioning my WDW stroller strategy.

We have always been a single stroller family where WDW is concerned. My husband HATES carrying heavy, bulky strollers. Not only does he hate carrying the strollers, he also hates it even when he feels as though the stroller is in someone else’s way. Since we rely on WDW transportation, he is very aware of how much space our stroller will take up on the bus. Because he feels so strongly on this particular issue, I have always let him choose which stroller we should take.

WDW 2008
On our 2008 trip, Porter was 12 months. We traveled with our Maclaren Quest. It worked great... light weight and streamlined when folded. It was study enough to hang our diaper bag on back. We put 1 lb weights on the front to help prevent tipping when Porter got out.

Porter in his stroller at Epcot, October 2008

It reclined ok for naps and the sunshade provided decent coverage.

Porter asleep in his stroller at Epcot, October 2008

This stroller worked great for one child, but by our next trip to WDW, we would no longer be a 1 child family.

WDW 2009
When we went to WDW in November 2009, Audrey Anne was about 8 weeks old. Because she was too little for the Maclaren, we took our other stroller, the Peg Perego Pramette. I LOVE this stroller. I don’t think they make it anymore, but it very similar to the Peg Perego Uno.

For this trip the plan was for me to primarily carry Audrey Anne,

Audrey Anne and me in Epcot, Thanksgiving Day 2009

and let Porter be our primarily stroller user.

Porter in Magic Kingdom, November 2009

Audrey Anne would use the stroller when she needed to stretch

Audrey Anne, November 2009

or when Porter wanted to walk.

Porter navigating his way thru DHS

And, we even used it as a double stroller once...

Audrey Anne and Porter in Epcot, Thanksgiving Day 2009 (Don’t worry. We just put Audrey Anne in the stroller for this picture. In reality, I had been holding Audrey Anne).

This strategy work very nicely. Audrey Anne was content to be snuggle up to her mommy and we never had to stop touring if she was asleep. Porter was content in the stroller and both kids could sleep or ride in the stroller if need be (although not at the same time ). I would highly recommend this method to anyone touring WDW with an infant!

WDW 2010
When we returned to WDW in 2010, we decided that we would just take our Maclaren. It had served us well in 2008 and Audrey Anne was plenty old enough for an umbrella stroller. Porter was almost three so we thought he would do fine walking, and he did.

So the plan was to let Audrey Anne ride in the stroller,

Jonathan, Porter, me, Marmee and Audrey Anne at Animal Kingdom, September 2009

and let Porter walk.

Jonthan, Porter, and Marmee at Animal Kingdom, September 2009

So whenever Porter got tired of walking, we would carry Audrey Anne and let him ride for a bit.

Marmee, Unc (my brother), Poppy, and Porter in Magic Kingdom, September 2009

WDW 2011
For this year’s trip, we had both assumed that we would just take our Maclaren again. And then, it started. I’m not what exactly happened, but all of a sudden, it seemed that talk of double strollers consumed every pre-trip report I was following. I had never questioned our idea of letting AA ride and P walk, but all of a sudden I had lots of questions. I mean, last year we made it just fine with Audrey Anne riding and Porter walking, but we were really only in the parks for 2.5 days and did not have any insanely long nights.

This year, we would be gone for a much longer 8-day trip which would have much longer days. Hmmmm, maybe we do need to take a double stroller.

I guess we COULD use our Maclaren as a double stroller, but I am not sure about the overall safety of this particular option.

Audrey Anne, Porter, and me in Animal Kingdom, Sept 2009

It would be nice if naps could be taken in the parks a few days or they could both go to sleep at night in the parks if they got too tired. Both kids have grown in the past year and would not be as easy to carry. Plus, it would be great to know they could both ride if they wanted and help keep each other entertained!

So, what is the problem you ask? Why not just take your double stroller, you say? Well, about a year ago I got the double stroller of my dreams... the Bumbleride Twin Indie. Oh my, I love this stroller! My friends love this stroller. They push mine and then go buy their own. They tell their sisters, sister-in-laws, cousins, cousin friend’s friends to go buy this stroller. It is that FANTASTIC!

Both kids fit nicely and enjoy sitting next to each other

Porter and Audrey Anne, 4th of July Parade 2010

It fully reclines,

Porter and Audrey Anne on the Metro, July 2010

and the sunshades provide really good coverage

Porter and Audrey Anne in D.C., July 2010

So you must be thinking, why not take your beloved double stroller to WDW in October? Well, as I was trying to decide on a double stroller last Spring, Jonathan said, “If you get this stroller, we ARE NOT taking it to Walt Disney World! It is too big.” Since I had never considered taking a double stroller to WDW, I just ignored him and ordered it anyway. That’s ok. I wouldn’t trade this stroller for any other one, WDW or not. Yes, I love it that much!

Once I decided that we really NEEDED a double stroller for our upcoming trip, I sweetly explained the situation to Jonathan and asked him if he would reconsider taking our wonderfully, perfect double stroller. He said no. Well, actually, he said, “Absolutely not. I told you when we bought it that we were not taking it to WDW.” Ok, fair enough. He had warned me before we ever bought it. So, I asked, "What if I could find a smaller double stroller?" To my shock, dismay, and surprise, he said, “Sure. I would much rather buy a new one than carry that huge stroller onto the bus.” That was all that needed to be said. I was on my lap top and googling double umbrella strollers before he could finish his sentence!