Our First Trip as Parents! December 2012 TR - 8/6 OMG a TR link!

[blabbermouth]

I'm just surfing the dis and drinking a glass of wine and thought of you... any updates?

 

[heathsf]

I'm home sick from work today so it's giving me a chance to catch up on your TR!

That ToT simulator was so cool!! I had actually seen it before but could not for the life of me figure out how to use it lol. Today I spent a little more time and actually figured it out. So much fun!

I think it's beautiful that you took DS to visit your dad at the cemetery.

That picture of the rainbow at the boardwalk was stunning. Your room is so cute. It really looks like a quaint Jersey shore beach house. I love WDW theming. When you were trying to get to your room from Epcot, I wonder if they would have let you walk through World Showcase even though it wasn't officially open yet. They let people in through that entrance at opening right?

I wanted to ask you a DL touring question:
The day we go (in just two weeks!) is an EE day but since we're not on property and only have one-day tickets, we can't go. When we get there at regular opening, where should we head first to avoid lines? I assume Fantasyland is already going to be crowded so we should stay away? Should we go to Frontierland since that wouldn't have been open to anyone yet? How about Tomorrowland... (Dfi is really looking forward to Space Mountain since it was one of his favorites at WDW). Thanks for any help!

 

[Leshaface]

I don't know whether to say thank you, or whether I should be saying some not so nice things about you right now.

Have you given it a try yet?!?

I'm just surfing the dis and drinking a glass of wine and thought of you... any updates?

Oooh what kind of wine!? I'll update today!

I'm home sick from work today so it's giving me a chance to catch up on your TR!

That ToT simulator was so cool!! I had actually seen it before but could not for the life of me figure out how to use it lol. Today I spent a little more time and actually figured it out. So much fun!

I think it's beautiful that you took DS to visit your dad at the cemetery.

That picture of the rainbow at the boardwalk was stunning. Your room is so cute. It really looks like a quaint Jersey shore beach house. I love WDW theming. When you were trying to get to your room from Epcot, I wonder if they would have let you walk through World Showcase even though it wasn't officially open yet. They let people in through that entrance at opening right?

I wanted to ask you a DL touring question:
The day we go (in just two weeks!) is an EE day but since we're not on property and only have one-day tickets, we can't go. When we get there at regular opening, where should we head first to avoid lines? I assume Fantasyland is already going to be crowded so we should stay away? Should we go to Frontierland since that wouldn't have been open to anyone yet? How about Tomorrowland... (Dfi is really looking forward to Space Mountain since it was one of his favorites at WDW). Thanks for any help!

Boo to being sick. Hope you get better soon!

Haha it took me a while to get it too! At first I thought it was just a little 'show' of how the ToT works but then nothing happened. I didn't realize that I could control it myself and take guests in and out of tv rooms and into the elevators. It is actually really cool!

As far as EA goes, I would probably grab a FP for Space Mountain before heading over to Frontierland. You're still planning on going to RD right? And i'm sure you already know this, but just in case, they're enforcing FP times at DL unless there's a breakdown of the ride or something. I can't remember, what day are you going?

 

[Leshaface]

Sorry for my lack of updates everyone. Been kind of a crazy past week, but i'm off today, so i'll be updating later

 

[franandaj]

I wanted to ask you a DL touring question:
The day we go (in just two weeks!) is an EE day but since we're not on property and only have one-day tickets, we can't go. When we get there at regular opening, where should we head first to avoid lines? I assume Fantasyland is already going to be crowded so we should stay away? Should we go to Frontierland since that wouldn't have been open to anyone yet? How about Tomorrowland... (Dfi is really looking forward to Space Mountain since it was one of his favorites at WDW). Thanks for any help!

With the opening of Carsland, the dynamic of the parks has completely shifted. Most people are lined up to get FPs for RSR at DCA. DL doesn't start to see the large amount of crowds now until after the rush at RSR ends. Have fun!

 

[afwdwfan]

Have you given it a try yet?!?

Of course. And I naturally had to try out a few of the other attractions they had on there...

 

[heathsf]

Boo to being sick. Hope you get better soon!

Haha it took me a while to get it too! At first I thought it was just a little 'show' of how the ToT works but then nothing happened. I didn't realize that I could control it myself and take guests in and out of tv rooms and into the elevators. It is actually really cool!

As far as EA goes, I would probably grab a FP for Space Mountain before heading over to Frontierland. You're still planning on going to RD right? And i'm sure you already know this, but just in case, they're enforcing FP times at DL unless there's a breakdown of the ride or something. I can't remember, what day are you going?

With the opening of Carsland, the dynamic of the parks has completely shifted. Most people are lined up to get FPs for RSR at DCA. DL doesn't start to see the large amount of crowds now until after the rush at RSR ends. Have fun!

Thanks for the advice! Yes, we are planning to be there before RD and I know about FP enforcement. I was so disappointed!!! We just missed making it in time before it started. We will be there two weeks from tomorrow, March 21. I just started a TR for it, it's in my signature Sick days can be so productive!

 

[blabbermouth]

Sorry for my lack of updates everyone. Been kind of a crazy past week, but i'm off today, so i'll be updating later

Glad you're back!

I was drinking a wine from BC: Jackson Triggs Reserve Merlot

 

[Leshaface]

With the opening of Carsland, the dynamic of the parks has completely shifted. Most people are lined up to get FPs for RSR at DCA. DL doesn't start to see the large amount of crowds now until after the rush at RSR ends. Have fun!

Ah, great point Alison!

Of course. And I naturally had to try out a few of the other attractions they had on there...

I should check out the other attractions. The only problem is, once I start, I can't stop!

Thanks for the advice! Yes, we are planning to be there before RD and I know about FP enforcement. I was so disappointed!!! We just missed making it in time before it started. We will be there two weeks from tomorrow, March 21. I just started a TR for it, it's in my signature Sick days can be so productive!

I'll be right over!

Glad you're back!

I was drinking a wine from BC: Jackson Triggs Reserve Merlot

Mmm, I love Merlots

 

[Leshaface]

***I last left us off getting off the boat from DHS to BWV to get ready for dinner ***

Once we arrived back at our room, we got dressed and headed out the door. Our reservation was set for 5:50pm and we left the room at 5pm. We didn’t wait long for a MK bus, but boy was it packed!

We got to the MK around 5:45 and we still had to walk over to the Contemporary so DH walked really fast with the stroller, while DM and I lagged behind. DH was apparently way ahead of us because when we got to the counter to check-in, the CM had said that he had already went up the elevator a couple minutes ago. Sweet! We took the elevator and met with DH and our buzzer went off immediately. I was kind of hoping to grab a drink at the bar and hang around for a bit, but that didn’t happen, which was fine.

Our table was not located in the main dining room, which was a little disappointing. We were seated in the Wine Room, which had no view of the Castle but had a lake view. When I told DS this, he was like

But after sitting there for a few minutes, I actually really liked it in there because it was so quiet and relaxing. DS warmed up to the room

I snapped some pictures of the menu

I already knew what I was getting before even looking at the menu. I haven’t had sushi in a year because I was pregnant so I was way overdue! We placed our orders and chatted for a bit

And soon our appetizers were here! I ordered the Yuzu-marinated Sashimi which comprised of Yellowfin Tuna, Salmon, Hamachi and Snapper

This was ridiculous. So fresh and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. I could have had just this, and I would have been happy.

DH ordered the Spicy Kazan which had Crab, Shrimp, Scallops, Tuna and Fireball sauce

I’m not the first to order rolls, however, if they’re placed in front of me, I’ll still eat them. And these were really tasty! Not very spicy like I imagined them to be, but still wonderful.

DM got the Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli which she enjoyed.

For my entrée, I ordered the Seared Diver Scallops with Chestnut Risotto

The scallops were perfectly cooked and the risotto was excellent! Couldn’t have asked for a more perfect dish.

Unfortunately, I can’t remember what DH or DM ordered (I’m pretty sure DM ordered the chicken though) but don’t worry, I did take pictures of the most important part of any meal…

Dessert!

I ordered the Brown Sugar Spice Cake – Pumpkin Panna Cotta, Cranberry Compote and Warmed Pumpkin Ganache

I also ordered a latte for my non-alcoholic beverage

DH ordered the Caramel Corn Crème Brulee – Zellwood Sweet Corn Custard, Salted Caramel Swirl Ice Cream, and Caramel Corn Brittle

And DM ordered the Valrhona Chocolate Cake – Warm Chocolate Cake with Molten Center, Peppermint Ice Cream and Godiva Chocolate Sauce

This dessert ended up being DM’s favorite dessert in all of Disney World!

The timing couldn’t have been more perfect. After settling our bill and gathering all our stuff, the lights dimmed a bit and Wishes started! I told DM and DH to go outside to check it out and I’d wait with DS. They were only out there for a few minutes because it was packed out there. I was like, “Psssh, let me try.” So DH went with me and luckily there was some short people that I stood behind to snap this picture

We only stayed out there for a few minutes before going back inside to head out. Not sure if there’s an easier way to get back to the BWV(besides a taxi), but we took the monorail to the MK and then a bus to BWV.

Actually it didn’t take as long as I thought it would to get back to the BWV from the Contemporary. It took 41 minutes. Not too bad, right?

DM loved the oversized loveseat in the lobby area

It was still a little early, and I wanted a beer. DM very quickly volunteered us to leave the room and go grab some beers somewhere. YES! We were right by ESPN Zone, and lord knows DH won’t say no to ESPN Zone, so we left before DM could change her mind. Hehe.

It was a nice night out on the Boardwalk

Side note: If you have refillable mugs, you have to go to the Boardwalk Bakery to have them filled. And even then, you can’t fill them on your own. CM’s have to fill them for you, which is annoying for all involved. Does anyone know if they’ll be adding a more convenient beverage station in the future?

We made our way to ESPN Zone, and the bar was almost completely empty. A little creepy, I must say. But it was nice to not have to fight for seats. We ordered a pitcher of Yuengling (of course) while watching some football highlights from the past week. I finished my share and wanted to get something else, and the bartender recommended this beer

Super hoppy and oh so refreshing. If you’re an IPA fan, this was pretty marvelous. We decided to call it a night and go back to the room. Tomorrow we had some pretty amazing ADR’s to look forward to. One of which we could not make it to last time for certain reasons.

 

[monica23535]

Yum your meal at California Grill looked amazing! I am definitely getting the same dessert as your Mom!


She is so sweet to let the two of you go for a beer

Yep, the mug situation is one thing that bugs me about BWI. I almost booked there last year but chose BC instead, not just because of the mugs but it sure does make things easier being able to fill them yourself at the Marketplace.

Calvin looks so cute in the pics, guess he likes eating at CG too lol

 

[heathsf]

Our table was not located in the main dining room, which was a little disappointing. We were seated in the Wine Room, which had no view of the Castle but had a lake view. When I told DS this, he was like

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So cute!!!

Tomorrow we had some pretty amazing ADR’s to look forward to. One of which we could not make it to last time for certain reasons.
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I remember that update from way back when. That was the first TR I read completely that got me hooked on the DIS. Ahh...memories

I love that you post menu pictures! I always read them thoroughly to pretend I'm there and decide on my imaginary meal. Here I would have gotten the California Roll, Filet of Beef, and for dessert.... Heather's Chocolate Sampler! It was a tough choice with so many delicious options to choose from, but with it named after me, how could I pass it up? The creme brulee really would have tempted me though... Okay, I have to stop and remind myself that this isn't real.

I don't know if it's just me, but your dessert picture didn't load. It looks like it might be missing a " [ " at the beginning of the link.

 

[afwdwfan]

I haven’t had sushi in a year because I was pregnant so I was way overdue!

Definitely not my thing... I prefer my fish fried. It looks like you all really enjoyed your dinner though, so that's what counts!

And DM ordered the Valrhona Chocolate Cake – Warm Chocolate Cake with Molten Center, Peppermint Ice Cream and Godiva Chocolate Sauce

I can understand why that would be your DM's favorite WDW dessert. First I've ever heard of this interesting creation, but I'd certainly like to try it.

It was still a little early, and I wanted a beer. DM very quickly volunteered us to leave the room and go grab some beers somewhere. YES! We were right by ESPN Zone, and lord knows DH won’t say no to ESPN Zone, so we left before DM could change her mind. Hehe.

Great plan!

We made our way to ESPN Zone, and the bar was almost completely empty. A little creepy, I must say. But it was nice to not have to fight for seats.

I've found that to be the case fairly often if you go on an evening when there isn't some kind of big sporting event on TV. It often gets overlooked, but I'm willing to go there any time I can.

Tomorrow we had some pretty amazing ADR’s to look forward to. One of which we could not make it to last time for certain reasons.

At least it looks like you had a legitmate reason for missing it.

 

[pharmjenn]

I have been lurking, but I can answer this one. You can also fill your mug at the bar on the lobby level, BWI side. It is a little closer than heading down to the bakery if you are only wanting drinks. The bartender usually asked if I wanted paper cups or to fill my mugs, so if we were going to be heading out, I left the soda in the paper cups for easy disposal and less to carry.

 

[Leshaface]

Yum your meal at California Grill looked amazing! I am definitely getting the same dessert as your Mom!


She is so sweet to let the two of you go for a beer

Yep, the mug situation is one thing that bugs me about BWI. I almost booked there last year but chose BC instead, not just because of the mugs but it sure does make things easier being able to fill them yourself at the Marketplace.

Calvin looks so cute in the pics, guess he likes eating at CG too lol

I mean, not to sound spoiled, but I couldn't believe I had to walk all the way to the Bakery for a drink! You'd think for such an expensive resort, they'd put a beverage station in the lobby somewhere

So cute!!!

I remember that update from way back when. That was the first TR I read completely that got me hooked on the DIS. Ahh...memories

I love that you post menu pictures! I always read them thoroughly to pretend I'm there and decide on my imaginary meal. Here I would have gotten the California Roll, Filet of Beef, and for dessert.... Heather's Chocolate Sampler! It was a tough choice with so many delicious options to choose from, but with it named after me, how could I pass it up? The creme brulee really would have tempted me though... Okay, I have to stop and remind myself that this isn't real.

I don't know if it's just me, but your dessert picture didn't load. It looks like it might be missing a " [ " at the beginning of the link.

I do the same thing when looking at menus! Picking out apps, entrees and a dessert and of course, picking out a cocktail to pair with them

Thanks for noticing Heather! I just went back and edited it

I've found that to be the case fairly often if you go on an evening when there isn't some kind of big sporting event on TV. It often gets overlooked, but I'm willing to go there any time I can.


At least it looks like you had a legitmate reason for missing it.

Yes, the last time we had gone there, people were lining up inside the waiting area to get seated in the bar. It was nuts! I'm pretty sure a big Football game was on.

My reason was very legitmate! Also, it wasn't my fault. I'm pretty sure it was Mexico and the UK's fault

I have been lurking, but I can answer this one. You can also fill your mug at the bar on the lobby level, BWI side. It is a little closer than heading down to the bakery if you are only wanting drinks. The bartender usually asked if I wanted paper cups or to fill my mugs, so if we were going to be heading out, I left the soda in the paper cups for easy disposal and less to carry.

Hi!

Wow really?? I'm going to have to go back and look at a map. I never knew this! Thank you so much!

 

[MEK]

I love sushi and those pictures look amazing. I am so hungry right now that's to that.

Oh - and your dessert looks equally amazing. I love the Cali Grille. so glad you enjoyed your meal there.

I agree that it is very annoying to have to ask someone to refill your mug repeatedly. I feel sorry for the bartenders at the BW pool bar. I did hear they are going to put a self service station in, but I have not heard any details.

So great that you got a post dinner date night at ESPN. And two yummy beers to boot!

 

[Leshaface]

I love sushi and those pictures look amazing. I am so hungry right now that's to that.

Oh - and your dessert looks equally amazing. I love the Cali Grille. so glad you enjoyed your meal there.

I agree that it is very annoying to have to ask someone to refill your mug repeatedly. I feel sorry for the bartenders at the BW pool bar. I did hear they are going to put a self service station in, but I have not heard any details.

So great that you got a post dinner date night at ESPN. And two yummy beers to boot!

Isn't sushi amazing! So light, yet filling. Love it!

Cali Grill is DH's favorite restaurant in all of the World. It ranks up there for me, but I think my favorite signature is between Artist Point and Citricos.

I just checked out your last TR (well the first page) and i'll be trying to catch up the rest of the day

 

[blabbermouth]

CG looks so good! The sushi and dessert sound amazing. And Calvin's faces are awesome Had to laugh at your reason for not making it to your ADR last time and I think I'll go back and read the whole report.

 

[UGAFan0829]

Glad to see you enjoyed the bartender's recommendation...especially since it's from my home town!

 

[soul_power]

I'm so late, but congrats on your cutie pie baby boy! I remember following your cruise TR a while back and you talking about how you were (or trying to get?) pregnant! Looking forward to reading about your trip!