RioPooh's family trip trip report: Finished!!

[riopooh]

Okay – I have a confession – This trip report is from a while ago.

This is for all my disfriends who are like me and enjoy a meandering reminisce with not so total strangers - Be warned - There will be no reports on how we enjoyed Expedition Everest or even Soaring. Yup – I am pre-dating those.

Why am I posting such an out of date report. I don’t know. I wrote most of this report shortly after returning. Then life got in the way. But I was inspired by some of the great reports that I have read recently. So I set out to finish my report as a keepsake – kind of like a photo album in words. So why post it? I enjoy reading trip reports and I am hoping some of you will enjoy mine.

I want to thank to all of you who have posted your reports for the entertainment and inspiration you have provided me and so many others. I still have some editing to do (and I really want to figure out how to do pictures) but here goes…

 

[riopooh]

Pre-Trip: An Addiction is fed or how I became a super secret member of the DVC.

I had been planning this trip since March/ April of last year. The original idea had come about last March while my mother was having surgery to remove a tumor in her lung. My father, sister & I we discussing the family trip that we were never able to pull off. And the conversation turned to the many trips we had taken as kids to Disney (my Dad had a great part in my early development as a Dis-nut) and we three decided that our entire family should all go the Disney together. The kids were at great ages (7 kids, ages 3 to 13), plus my sister and brother had never taken their children to the world (what's with that!!) My son had already been twice and my daughter was there for her third birthday. The seed was planted.

Towards the end of April, we were at my parent's house for a get together and my sister asked me how the Disney plans were shaping up. I hadn’t believed her! I wasn't prepared! My father was interested too. That was all I needed; I was off and running!!

My online research is how I first learned about DVC (Disney Vacation Club). A little knowledge can be a very dangerous thing. Combined with a recent tax refund and we're talking extremely dangerous. I found myself at the Time Share store online site (Thanks for that easy link!) looking at a small DVC contract for Wilderness Lodge points. It looked like a good idea; I was intrigued. Prime Disney accommodations for the next 30 something years. Hmmm. The next day the contract was sold. Sigh. Then another one came up - even smaller, no current points - not quite as nice as the first one I saw. The next day that was sold. To me. That tax refund burnt a hole right through my pocket and out the other side!!

Maybe here I should mention that I am a banker by trade. My husband is in sales. He is a wonderful guy; warm-hearted, great sense of humor. Budgeting was a completely foreign concept to him when we first get married. He golfs. And golfs. And watches golf channel. And read golf books and magazines. Golf is allotted for in our family budget, nearly equal to food and way ahead of family vacations. I mention this because I almost got away with it. He would have never known. Except for my boss and her big mouth. A few days after my foray into timeshare ownership, DH stopped in for a visit at my office. And my manager offered her congratulations on our time share purchase. And he looked at her blankly. What timeshare?

Hmm, I guess I forgot to mention it. But he golfs and I do Disney and in our happy little twisted world, that comes out even. I even put his name on my DVC deed.

Months creep by. I rent additional DVC points from 4 different owners in order to secure accommodations for my entire family for the busy President's Week. We choose this week to accommodate the older children and my brother's wife, who is a teacher. And we figure it won't be as hot as Easter/Spring break, which will make it easier on my parents. As time goes by, my brother is more elusive that normal (and trying to arrange a simple play date with him & his children is hard enough). He finally backs out and we morph his accommodations into a longer stay for my parents and I. (Yahoo!)

My parents have of course been my main concern in all my planning. We chose the Wilderness Lodge Villas primarily for the villa set-up and proximity to the Magic Kingdom. Both my parents have health issues and my father has limited mobility. My mother drags him everywhere and he willing drives her and then waits in the car with a book. Obviously, all couples have their give and takes; just like my husband and his golf. I figured they would have the comforts of home and the availability to the grandchildren. My sister and I and our respective DHs were definitely second priority.

As the trip grew closer, my mother's medical situation was unsettled. She was beginning a new course of medication that required surveys and pre-approval and special arrangements with the drugstore and the insurance and of course, this was to all start about two weeks before the trip. And then my dad, who has been so good driving my mom everywhere she needed and always being there for her, wasn’t well and one week before the trip, they were out.

And after 9 months of hoping and planning, I was seriously in denial. I hadn't wanted to admit that their cancellation was always a strong possibility. I was trying to plan everything to accommodate their special needs and to include them with their grandchildren, but it just wasn't going to happen. I was so disappointed. I was also out some serious cash. I had laid out the money for their airfare and the rented points. (well, I had insured their flights – my dad is an insurance agent & has taught me well). I turned to the Disboards and with the help of one of my original DVC owners, I was able to re-rent the studio we had reserved for my sister and re-allocate some of the extraneous points that we had for my family. Once my sister left, my little family of 4 really wouldn't need a 2bdrm villa to ourselves. My husband was thrilled because it means we would get to spend some time with friends of ours who live in Longwood (north of Orlando.) They went to high school together and whenever we get together (north or south) we just have alot of fun. Plus he would get to play golf.

It wasn't turning out to be the once in a lifetime trip that I had hoped for but it was pretty darn close. As much as I wanted my parents to be with me, it would have been really difficult. And somewhere deep inside me, I kind of knew that they probably weren’t going to joining us.
But finally a few days before our trip I started to get excited again. I was heading to my favorite place with my favorite people. It was going to be good. No, it was going to be great.

 

[Minniespal]

Looking forward to more.

 

[riopooh]

Cast of Characters (I’m not giving our ages – basically we are all in the neighborhood of 40-something – although some have been there longer than others!)

Me – your basic Disney Nut - head trip planner, photographer and writer of this report.

DH –Basic Disney enabler – Complete Golfaholic - sometimes makes fun of me and my affinity for all things Disney, but turns Disney Commando once in the zone!

DS – Age 10 - Prince Charming in the making – good-natured, easygoing, just an all round great kid. He is my first-born and I have enjoyed every moment of him.

DD – age 4 ½ - our princess – high maintenance, high volume. Non-stop talker. Absolute attention hound – cute as a button, bright as a penny. She is as challenging as her brother is easy but so much fun.

DSis - my older sister and my best friend – an NYC securities attorney who redirects that energy into being a wonderful, if occasional Type A, mom.

DBil – her husband and official trip Chef. He is a very good sport. Hasn’t been to Disney since his teen years, had previously disparaged the commercialism and generally sanitized fun of Disney but was curious after hearing the rave reviews from my DH & I (and probably more swayed by my DH than me!). Willing to go along out of love for my sister.

DN1 – age 7 – tech head in the making – very bright, very intense child. Lots of genes from my sister’s side of the pool. My godson with a 10,000-watt smile.

DN2 – age 4 ½ - lovingly referred to as the flying squirrel – very sweet & good-natured – this kid is the Labrador Retriever of kids.



[Day Minus 1: the Trials & Tribulations of Winter Travel

In October when we booked the flights, I discovered that we would save about $150 per person by flying Monday to Monday vs. traveling over the weekend. My family was flying because my parents were to be traveling with us. We were flying out of LaGuardia (closer to their home) and taking direct flights in the middle of the day. My usual preference is the earlier the better But for my parents - I booked an 11:00 am flight.

My sister and her crew were driving; they planned on leaving early Sat 2/21, staying one night somewhere in the middle and arriving in Disney Sunday evening. They would be staying in a Wilderness lodge studio and then switching to the 2 bdroom the next day. I found a very nice family from Michigan from the DisBoards to rent the studio to for the rest of the week but there was one glitch. Because there was a waiting list for the week, I couldn't cancel and re-book in the new families name. My sister wouldn't "officially" be checking out - basically, we had to meet in the lobby- all had to be present- and they would just change the name on the reservation and the new family would take over the room. Talk about an exercise in trust. This family was flying down from Michigan on one week's notice with no confirmable ressie in their name. I felt the same way with the points I rented - but at least I had several months to e-mail and converse with those people. And the ressie was in my name. But I told them I was trustworthy and they believed me! And they said they'd give me cash when we met. They weren’t completely stupid!

My sister e-mailed me updates via her blackberry. I was so jealous that they had a head start. Of course, they did have an eighteen-hour drive.

They arrived 6:30 pm Sunday. They went swimming. We were in NY packing and watching snow.

Monday my husband and I were up by 5am. And staring at the 6 or 7 inches of snow. And that wasn't our main concern. Friends of his that had left Sunday had called us with the wonderful news that they had had trouble finding long term parking at the airport. At their suggestion, I tried contacting some off site lots- no luck. A cab to the airport from our house would cost about $180 for the four of us. Plus then we would need one again one the way home. Yikes. We decided to get the kids up and get a head start and see where fate lead us.

The local roads were a mess but once we hit the highway, it wasn't bad. We left our house before 7am and weighed our options. As we got closer, I tried some of the lots that I hadn't reached the night before. No luck. We considered mass transit but the logistics of 2 kids, 4 pieces of luggage and a set of golf clubs were daunting.

We tried contacting friends that lived closer the airport. I was able to reach a friend who lived about 5 miles from the airport –she said we could leave the car at her house. We called a cab (van actually), we transferred all our stuff and we were off!! My daughter was thoroughly confused and had a bit of a meltdown but I finally get her calmed down and promised her that the next step would be the airplane. She attached herself to me. My husband tipped generously. That ride costs us $40 plus $20 tip (remember that for later).

Yea! We are finally on our way!

We were flying Spirit Air which I booked our air travel through Expedia so we weren't able to pre-assign seats. DD and I were in row 11; my boys were in row 26. The plane was beautiful. It looked new, smelled nice and seemed really spacious. Of course I was sitting with a 4 yo instead of usual seatmate, my Dh who is 6'3". This was DD's first flight and she was very excited. Every few minutes she's asked me if we were up in the air yet - despite the view from her window seat.

My DD being a 4yo is at that sweet age where cute things bubble out of her innocently and then are repeated until not so cute. One thing I did enjoy was the question "how many more days until Disney world?" Which was now answered with an upraised fist and a big "Zero!" I chuckled when she first did this so naturally she tried to get her Daddy's attention 15 rows behind us. Now she was just being loud. I fed her gummi bears.

Finally we arrive in Sunny Florida - Yea!! We hop on the Enterprise shuttle (some more over tipping - the guy was so appreciative I started to wonder just how much cash my husband had on him!!) The service at Enterprise was very quick and efficient. We load up in a cute little Saturn Wagon and we are off!

 

[riopooh]

Monday, Feb 21: Day One, Pt Two: Finally at the Magic

The entire drive from the airport I am on the phone. I am trying to coordinate meeting up with my sister and crew and the family from Michigan who will be taking over their room. My sister and her boys spent the day (as per my directions) in Animal Kingdom and were having a great time. When we finally met up my older nephew was sporting snake face paint and a smile from ear to ear!! We also met up with Becky from Michigan and her family who had also spent the day at AK.

The CM checking us in greeted us with our first “Welcome Home”. I smiled and then proceeded to confuse her with the world’s most complicated reservations. We had three linked ressies plus the transfer to our new friends from Michigan. I think she regretted welcoming us home. But it all worked out and we were headed to the villas.

First we go to my sister’s old room and clear her stuff out. Now having never met my sister – you might think that was a simple matter. But we/she didn’t realize that I needed her out immediately and hadn’t really packed everything. So we’re throwing stuff in bags and the kids were helping (yeah – big help- you can imagine) and Becky is arriving with her two boys and a cartload of groceries that she had pre-ordered and it was chaos. All of a sudden we realize the kids are gone. Vamoosed. History. I see my son about a hundred yards down the hall leading the 3 younger ones like the pied piper. I felt bad that the room I had rented wasn’t handed over quite the way I wanted (I didn’t want to be the cause for an un-Disney start to anyone’s vacation) but I would have felt worse if we lost our children at the very beginning of our trip – so I took off after the kids. I had faith that my sister (an attorney) could handle this one.

My son’s little parade beat me to the room. By the time I got there, they had already checked the entire place out. The villa was really something. Two balconies, Jacuzzi tub, full kitchen, three TVs, Mickey soap everywhere. The kids didn’t know what to look at first!! My DH and BIL were already making themselves comfortable and cracking beers open in the kitchen. The two older boys settled down with game boys and the two little ones played house in the jacuzzi (it became a favorite play area as well as the occasional bathing appliance). The bellhops delivered our bags and we settled in for our five-night stay. My BIL decided to go on a grocery run and the rest of us headed for the pool.

My youngest nephew has (previously) been nicknamed the flying squirrel for his tendency to leap before you look. Literally – He will jump off stairs, furniture; whatever into his loving family’s arms – whether or not they are aware that he is coming. He does this usually to my husband – who at 6’3” can usually manage to catch an incoming 4 yo. One thing we learned on this trip – the flying squirrel is fast – no sooner that a door opens, the kid is gone. Luckily, we have a fairly levelheaded 10 yo and an equally quick 7yo to send after him. I am amazed at how much energy they have. My daughter, on the other hand, is a princess that can’t be rushed. She meanders along at her own speed, talking away to whoever was in earshot.

So we were off to the big pool with the 3 boys in the lead (way in the lead)., me trying to keep them in sight, and my sister and her niece in back discussing current events and who know what else. I amazed by my nephews’ energy – my sister is amazed by how much my daughter can talk. DS and DN1 must have done the slide a dozen times. The lifeguards were great; my DN1 is all skin, bones and elbows – he doesn’t look very water worthy. The guards had him in theirs sights the entire time. My DH and sister stayed with the little ones at the kiddy pool- my husband was a big hit over there. He was lying in the middle of the pool playing with my DN and DD and attracted all sorts of little kids. He finally ducked into one of the hot tubs to relax a bit. But then of course, the flying squirrel followed and he was back on play duty.

We swam for over an hour and then headed back up to the room. My BIL finally returned from his adventures at Gooding’s. He had made a couple a wrong turns and took tour of just about every corner of the property. He started this whole trip as a bit of a skeptic and now that he has seen how big Disney is and how much there is to do, he is very glad that he’s got a dedicated tour guide (me!) We got ready as fast as we could – we had dinner reservations with the Big Mouse himself!!

We finally are all neat and pretty and headed to the dock. The kids loved clamoring down the wooden walkways. We were going to be cutting it close but finally, a launch arrived and we were on our way. We arrived at the Contemporary dock 5 minutes before our PS time. We raced past the pool and into the hotel and then up elevators, down escalators, around corners, up more escalators, down hallways, into another elevator – I had no idea where we were going but we got there. And stood in a huge line. The place was packed. We put our names in at the podium and got our beeper thing. My DS and DN1 pulled out their game boys while the 2 4yos tried peering over a planter to get a glimpse at the fun happening in the restaurant. Then all of a sudden DN2 let out a blood-curdling scream – he had spotted the monorail. In the building. Oh my goodness. I love traveling with newbies, especially 4yo newbies. You forget how amazing everything is.

Our wait drags on. My DH and DBIL go in search of our traditional vacation starting marguerite and my sister and I wait with the kids. After a while, it is obvious that the long day is staring to wear on the kids – the little ones are whining and the older ones are starting to torment them. We move from the bench to a little alcove around the corner with a TV. We make a quick call back home to check on our parents. I go in search of the two men that had gone in search of margaritas. I find them relaxing at the bar while our frozen drinks slowly defrost. I order them back to the family fun and they reluctantly give up their barstools. It our first night – they can’t ditch us yet!! We toast the start of our vacation and shortly after our pager goes off and scares the heck out of my daughter. We make our way thru the waiting throng and somehow manage to skip the obligatory Chef Mickey photo – I think it was because my one nephew had already made a mad dash into the restaurant.

We are seated at a large table on the second level in the back. It was very off the beaten path, which was good and bad depending on your perspective. My DN2 was terrified of the characters so he was happy (and then of course, that made my sister happy). But we could hardly see or hear anything and felt very left out. We were also starving so off to the buffet we went. We filled up on a little bit of everything. The kids weren’t particularly interested in anything – my daughter loaded up on corn muffins and crackers. My DS is starting to become more adventurous- he tried a little of everything and went back for seconds of the goulash and parmesan mashed potatoes. None of the adults were overly impressed by the food – but there were large quantities of it at least!

The entertainment was equally unimpressive. We were first visited by Goofy. My DN1 dove under the table when he approached and my DD joined him (she isn’t afraid of the characters but enjoys playing under tables!) My DN2 barely looked up from his game boy. My son, despite being 11 yo and too cool for characters – especially since the younger members of our crew were so blasé – obliged me and got a big thumbs up from the Goof man. Minnie was next and I coaxed my daughter out – once Minnie saw the Minnie fleece my daughter was wearing she made a big fuss over her. DD loved it and happily posed for a photo. Next came Chip and we managed to get my DN2 up for a photo but it was a quickie because Chip ran off to join the napkin waving in another section of the restaurant. Then that was it. We got desserts and paid our tab and waited. The table next to us were also dawdling. I finally asked one of the servers if Mickey was ever going to come around and she said well, wasn’t he here already? When Chip ran off to do the napkin dance Mickey had been right in the next section but he never made back to our little area. Finally the big man made an appearance – my 2 nephews wanted nothing to do with him. We took a family shot and made our exit.

We explored the main concourse and we introduced my nephews to one our favorite Disney collections – pressed pennies! I had come armed with a roll of quarters and lots of shiny pennies (our preference). We rode the monorail around to the Magic Kingdom and from there caught a launch to the Lodge and quickly called it a night. It was a wonderful start to a great vacation.

 

[averill94]

THanks for the tip on the time share sit! Just what we need -not.
Thanks so much for posting- glad you got out with the snow.

 

[riopooh]

Tuesday, Feb 22: Day Two, Pt One: Morning at the Magic Kingdom

We were up and ready to go fairly early the next morning (by my standards). My DH is the morning person in the family – he went to Roaring Forks for the bottomless mugs and hot coffee and got a paper from the mercantile before I even thought about getting up.

After a quick breakfast of yogurt and cereal, we were out by 9:30. The launches had been grounded due to fog but by the time we got out, they were running again. After another noisy run down the wooden walkways to the boats, we were off!!

We rented a double stroller, loaded up the two 4 yo’s and headed down Main Street. I was glad to have the flying squirrel confined – I had been really worried about how to keep track of him in the crowds. No one seemed to appreciate the ambiance of Main Street or the beauty of the castle other than me – they wanted rides!

We headed to Tomorrowland and even thought it was the Tuesday of the holiday week, the crowds weren’t overwhelming. I took all the tickets and went ahead to get FPs for Space Mountain. I was here that we realized that for all of my Disney prowess, I could also be a bit of a knucklehead. I had used all 8 of our tickets for the Fast Pass machine but then when I met up with my sister, I was short one ticket – hers of course! I had left it behind in the FP machine! Luckily when I ran back there was a ride attendant who had a collection of tickets (at least I’m not the only knucklehead!) First Ride – Buzz Lightyear!! DD and I boarded our galactic star fighter behind the big boys and I was amazed at the testosterone loaded competition that was going on in there. I racked up more than any of them -despite my daughter’s driving but thanks to the many pointers from these boards! I didn’t rub it in – the male ego is a very delicate thing!

After saving the galaxy, we bounded back into the sunshine and saw Space Pluto and Space Chip in front of the Carousel of Progress with virtually no one around. We got some quick photos then on to the Carousel of Progress. The little ones loved this show/ride – I hope they keep it running. We did a quick lap on the TTA and then our FP window was up for Space Mountain. We all enjoyed this quick and jerky ride thru space (it’s one of my favorites) and we decided to head to toontown next and took the secret path. Dis research pays off!

Toontown was packed! And hot. My BIL and DN1 were “mis-placed” for a while so we let the other kids cool of in the Donald Boat play area for a while. I put my DS in charge of them in the play area (he seemed to enjoy being the responsible one and also relieved to have the little ones as his “excuse” for being in the play area) while I stood lookout by the entrance. My sister located her husband and other son by Goofy’s roller coaster and my DH ran into a friend who was there with his wife and two little girls. (IASW!?) We were all getting hot and tired so we hopped aboard the railroad for a quick ride to Main Street – time to head back to the lodge for a swim!

On the launch back to the Lodge my sister & BIL came up with the brilliant idea of getting a snack and then swim and then an early dinner before heading back out for the evening. This ended up being our daily model for the rest of the trip. It worked wonderfully for us and I highly recommend it!!

After a quick change and some chips and salsa, we were ready for some serious pool time. During his morning excursion, my very smart husband had picked up life vests for the little ones - no charge!! – another thing that worked wonderfully. (See – I’m full of handy hints!)

After our very refreshing swim, we headed back to our villa for dinner. I don’t want to sound too full of myself, but getting the villa turned out to be a great move. Although I enjoy dining out while on vacation, eating out with these four kids would have been an incredibly frustrating experience. Every meal turns into playtime!! Besides my brother in law is a great cook- that was my payment as tour guide!

 

[riopooh]

Tuesday, Feb 22: Day Two, Pt Two: Evening at Epcot

After a dinner of spaghetti and meatballs, we headed over to Epcot. We decide that the buses would decide exactly how we were getting there and luckily a TTC bus showed up first! Yay! I’m as excited as the kids! Monorails are so much cooler that buses!! Once again we can’t ride up front - Boo! We get an entire section to ourselves - Yay! And there is Stitch picking his nose! Yay again! Have I mentioned lately how much fun it is traveling with little kids!! The ride into Epcot is such cool way to introduce the park.

Our first ride in Epcot is of course – Spaceship Earth. I chose this for several reasons – A) I am a traditionalist. B) There was no line and C) once they see how cool all the other rides were, this ride would be totally lame (lamer) (lamest). Everyone agrees the ride was just okay and we are off to the headliners- Mission Space and Test Track. Mission Space is a walk on and Test Track has a 30-minute standby time. My DH, DS, BIL and DN1 head off to ride Test track and we planned to meet up by Mexico for more Margaritas while we watch Illuminations.

My sister and I and the two little eventually ended up in front of the Mexican pavilion. Both kids were wide eyed over the sights and sounds of the Mexican pavilion. We led them down to the ride area and it was absolutely deserted except for two young ride operators that looked thrilled to have some customers. But now my DN2 decided that he wasn’t going to go on those scary little boats. The two young Mexican CM’s were very sweet – they told him that he was going to love their ride and “there was singing and dancing” and they started to do a little Mexican folk dance. DN2 was still skeptical but finally agreed. The kids loved this gentle ride and we went around twice. My sister told the children to ask in Spanish “Rapido por favor” and the operators responded with a hearty “Si’ and another Mexican folkdance. Towards the end of the second ride (in the fireworks section) –my cell phone rang – it was the big boys. They had ridden both test track and Mission Space twice and my DN1 was having the time of his life! They met us as where the boats unloaded and we bid our two cheerful CM “Gracias” and “Adios”. My DN1 was a little miffed that his brother got to ride on a ride that he had missed, but we assured him that he wasn’t missing anything. I don’t know if he really believed us - but after distracting everyone with some more pressed pennies – we headed out to watch Illuminations.

The world showcase was starting to get a bit crowded already but we found a good spot by Norway. Some nice people let our three little ones go in front but my DS was a little disappointed that at 10 yo almost 5’ he no longer gets a free pass to the front but I gave him my digital camera so he proceeded to take about 50 blurry fireworks shots.

While we waited the crowd to subside my sister, in a moment of weakness, had bought her two maniacs collapsible light up swords and it was pretty amusing to watch her try to contain their antics without injuring any passersby. Finally she gave up and confiscated them and we headed back to the villa.

While my sister and I settled the kids into pajamas, my DH and BIL headed to the Territory Lounge. I threw a load of laundry in (once again – I love these villas!!) and headed down to the mercantile to buy some pressed penny books and other miscellaneous stuff. By the time I got back, everyone was ready to hit the sack. It had been a long but very fun first day.

 

[pooksma]

Great start! What an adventure!

 

[OhMari]

Sounded like a great trip. Sorry about your parents. Thanks for sharing.

 

[byoung]

Thanks for reporting.

 

[riopooh]

Wednesday, Feb 23: Day Three (Pt One): A Relaxing Morning & Blizzard Beach

This was a going to be a lazy day for us. I truly believe that vacations are for relaxing and regenerating tired souls and despite all the temptation to “go commando”– I really wanted to do what felt good and relax and enjoy my wonderful family. So even this early we decided to stay out of the parks and plan some down time. This worked out perfectly because a stomach episode with my DD in the middle of the night (I’ll spare you the details), I didn’t want to push my luck and push her too hard. This scheduling tactic was despite the fact that the Magic Kingdom was having “Evening Magic Hours” where the park was scheduled to have regular hours until midnight – and extra magical hours until 3am! I was curious to try it – and my BIL said he would join me – but I deferred for the good of the group.

We planned a non-park Park day. My sister, BIL, myself and the kids were going to Blizzard Beach while my husband met some friends from home for a round of golf.

My husband was out bright and early to meet up with his friends for a 7:30 tee time at the Magnolia course. This morning my BIL had joined him on his 6:30 stroll around the Lodge for wildlife observing and coffee retrieval. They saw the ducks in the pool and an armadillo at the edge of the woods. My BIL made pancakes, scrambled eggs and fresh coffee and we lounged over breakfast and the newspaper until the ridiculously late (by Disney standards) hour of 10am. We reached Blizzard Beach at 11am-ish.

We found a spot in the shade by Tyke’s Peak for all our stuff and my sister and I (with the two little ones – of course) headed towards the kiddy area while my BIL, DS and older DN went to ride some real rides!

After getting our fill of splishing and splashing for a couple of hours at Tyke’s peak (there really is a lot to keep the little ones busy!) and a quick lunch, my DD and I went off to see if we could find the big boys in the main part of the park. That wasn’t going to happen – the place was huge! You can’t really see much from the walkways or lines. I was hoping to find some place to sit that we could just watch rafts going by but we didn’t find any good spots. At least the lines didn’t look too bad. I tried to convince my little miss to try a raft ride where she could sit on my lap – but that wasn’t going to happen! We headed back to Tyke’s Peak.

My son & DN1 joined the little ones and spent another hour happily playing among the “snow” sculptures while my Sis, BIL & I pulled lounge chairs to the edge (as if we were at a real beach!). I had to laugh when we gave the kids a ten-minute warning. My daughter very sincerely looked and up and said “But we’ve just got here.” It was 3pm – we had been there 4 hours!!

On the way out my DN7 joined in a hula-hoop contest and lost out at the last minute to a girl. He is a natural hula-hooper – especially considering he is built like a stick, certainly no hips (that girl had a natural advantage over him!)

 

[riopooh]

Wednesday, Feb 23: Day Three (Pt One- Alternative View): An Encounter with a Legend

On the way out of Blizzard Beach I got a call from my long lost husband. He had quite an adventure himself.

Now I mentioned earlier that my husband is an absolute golf fanatic. He had arranged to meet some friends and play the Palm course. There was a special golf deal going on- 2 rounds for $200 so he was also playing the Magnolia course on the day we were leaving. These are championship level courses and it was a real treat to play them – not to mention a treat to get away from the family intensive Disney experience and have a couple of hours hanging with the guys. However, the other wives are just not as nice as I am and all of my husband’s playmates had to report back to their families shortly after lunch. Knowing that we would be at Blizzard Beach for a while, I had given my DH a free pass until 3pm. So he found himself with a few hours to kill and he figured he would venture over to Bay Hill –a championship golf course that is about twenty minutes away. My husband had forgotten to pack a hat for himself and as much as he enjoys Disney, he simply was not going to wear a mouse on his head. (His closet, very unlike mine, is completely bereft of a Disney characters. I barely go a day without some sort of character sighting somewhere on my person!)

Now since I wasn’t here for this part, I can only record the event as it was told to me. Apparently my husband was paying for his hat and chatting with the guy in the pro shop and the guy mentions that Arnold Palmer was just finishing a round of golf and should be coming off the 18th soon. He told my husband that he was very approachable and then lent my husband a scorecard and a sharpie to get an autograph. Now, I wasn’t there so I don’t now exactly how it transpired but apparently my DH saw Arnie coming off the course in a golf cart. He asked for an autograph and chatted a little bit. Then he asked if he could take a picture (with his handy dandy cell phone). Arnie was not only agreeable – he asked his golf partner to step out of the cart and take a picture of my DH and himself together. The picture is priceless – my husband has a grin on his face from ear to ear. (I’m sorry that I don’t know how to post photos!) Mr. Palmer is truly as gracious as he is talented - no wonder he is such a beloved legend in the world of golf.

 

[riopooh]

Wednesday, Feb 23: Day Three (Pt Two): Shopping until we are dropping

We met up in the room and discovered my husband had the presence mind to use his golf winnings (it had been a very good day in many ways!) to pick up more groceries and beer, despite still being in a semi euphoric state from his close encounter with the golf legend. Good thing as this did help endear him to us – otherwise we might have had to kill him. He spent the entire dinner hour on his cell phone telling all his golf buddies back home about his experience. I finally confiscated the phone.

We were also delighted to find that mousekeeping had also visited us. It was a day early for our full cleaning but I guess since they were up to change our bed linens (thanks to my DD), they kept on going. All of my daughter’s stuffed animals and dolls were set up all over the bed and bedposts – it was very cute. My DD commented that they were so good – we should have them come to our house (I only wish!)

We settled down for showers, newspaper reading, game boy playing and newspaper reading – after all, vacations are supposed to be relaxing! After our appetizers of cheese and crackers, my dear, darling BIL cooked up a dinner of chicken cutlet parmesan with Spanish rice and green beans and smiley face fries. We were living much better than we do at home – good food, clean house and valet parking – who could ask for more!

After several hours of down time – we were ready to go again. It was now about 7pm and we were headed to Downtown Disney – which drew a completely blank stare from my sister. Oh right, she’s an old timer who had deprived her family for many years. Disney marketplace. Ahh – a smile of recognition – it was time to shop!!

It was pouring when we got to DTD and we did a quick dash from the bus stops to the $10 and under shop. My DS, being a veteran of 3 trips, declared it was all junk- and he was pretty much right but the littler ones were fascinated and could have stayed there much longer – they weren’t aware that there was much better shopping to be had. The little ones each got something and we were finally able to coax them out by suggesting we get some pressed pennies.

Onto the World of Disney for some real shopping. I had spent about $70 at one counter and then kept going. I was on line with my second armful when my husband saw that for every $75 spent, you get a free lithograph of the “Four park, One world” picture with Mickey in the monorail. I had over $120 of merchandise so my second group of purchases was easily going qualify but I was a little miffed that I wasn’t told about the promotion when I was making my first group of purchases. I asked the CM is I could get an extra one as I had more than enough in purchases but she replied that she couldn’t do that and it wasn’t a promotion that they had to tell you about, as there was a sign at each counter. Now while I was on line at the first counter, I was also trying to keep track of three children (my sister had left DN2 in my care and our 2 DHs were off on their own) so I wasn’t scouring the counters for marketing signs. Thus I found her comment unsatisfactory. I leaned over and said (politely) “now, you’re not going to make me return all this stuff so I can just repurchase it to qualify, are you?’ Luckily, she realized that sounded serious and what I was asking for did make sense – and I was given the second lithograph, which I gave to my sister. (Who hadn’t seen the sign either and also was making multiple, unqualified purchases). It is a very nice souvenir of our very special trip.

While waiting for everyone to meet up again my DS discovered the big pin trading store. Now, I know many Disney aficionados will disagree with me but I just don’t like the pin trading thing. IMHO, it is a waste of money. But in this case, it was my son’s money and I had said he could decide on his own what to buy. He picked out a plain lanyard and some large medallions- Chernabog, Buzz, Chip and Dale and Mr. Incredible. I tried to explain to him that the idea was to get one medallion and then pins for the lanyard. Of course, being my son, he argued that $9 for the medallion was a much better buy that $7 for a small pin and of course, after all it was his money. Here after, this collection will be known as his Disney Bling.

We gathered our entire party together and headed towards the bus stop. Our two little ones made an impassioned plea for a ride on that little train that goes in a circle (finally – a ride my little nephew wanted to go on!). They had the train to themselves -there weren’t a lot of little ones out and about at this time at night! We headed back to the villa and got everyone in their pj’s. My sister and her husband were going to head out to the territory lounge on their own but even they were too tired. Everyone was asleep by 10:45 (but me – I had trip notes to write!)

 

[dismom9761]

I have really enjoyed your trip report so far-Looking forward to more.

 

[riopooh]

Thursday, Feb 24: Day Four: Around the World in Half a Day

Once again we were up not quite at the crack of dawn. I really don’t believe in wake up calls while on vacation. We had a leisurely breakfast of cereal and coffee and were at Epcot by 11am. This time we took the bus – not quite as impressive, but efficient. We headed straight for Test Tract to get Fast Passes and did Ellen’s Energy Adventure. Everyone enjoyed this – even DN2. Afterwards we had an ice cream break and a quick stop at Ice Station Cool (and yes, I did get my BIL to try the Beverly and no, I wouldn’t do it to my sister – we girls stick together!).

Next we headed over to the Living Seas. The Nemo picture area was crowded and it was getting fairly warm so we headed right in. The queue area into the movie/hydrolator was very crowded and my younger nephew was getting quite agitated despite our assurances that we weren’t going onto a scary ride, but my BIL finally did take him back outside. We sat through the film, which was a major snooze (you would think with all the creative geniuses Disney has on call – they would be able to do better than that.) We looked at the tanks and especially the tank with the real Nemos (clown fish), which were adorable. Then we got on line for Turtle talk which we all loved. The kids sat on the floor up front while my sister, my DH and I sat a few rows up. My DS was the first one picked by Crush (hey, you, the dude resting his head on his fin…). Very cute and very, very funny. We all laughed and the kids loved it.

After our visit with Crush, we found my BIL and DN2 out by the Nemo exhibit – DN2 had had fun with the Coral Reef people and had his picture taken with Nemo. By this time our Fast Pass window was open for Test Track so we headed to that side of the park. My DH, DS and myself had the back seat while my sister and DN1 up front. Since we had an open spot, someone from the single rider line joined us – a cute teenager in tube top. She bounced in next to my DN1 who barely gave her a glance (unlike my DH & BIL!!)

The next item on our agenda was the World Showcase and more specifically, the UK (my DH and BIL were due for Guinness’s!) so once again we crossed over the park. We were getting to ride and see everything we wanted to do but I really didn’t plan well exertion-wise. It was very bright and sunny out – we were grateful for the cool inside rides and well air-conditioned shops.

We saw that the Character caravan out but between the longs lines, the hot sun and our two 4yo’s indifference and aversion, we kept going.

Being partially British (my DH – although he is complete Americanized now), we made the obligatory stop at the fish and chips counter for lunch and a couple of pints. None of the kids particularly cared for the fish but instead had lots of chips (well, those that weren’t swiped or fed to the rather aggressive seagulls.) Next, we checked out the shops for a few souvenirs and pressed pennies. We had just missed Pooh but (they) didn’t want to wait around for the next visit (sniff – I love that bear).

We continued along but by this point, the kids were dragging. My sister wanted to stop in the Moroccan pavilion but by the time we got there they kids were surly and un-cooperative. We grabbed then next Friendship boat out of there! Time to head home to our Home away from Home and more importantly, the Silver Springs pool!! We had a Disney photographer take a picture with Spaceship Earth in the background – she was very nice about taking additional pictures with both my camera and my sister’s. I am glad they have this service so we were able to get a picture of all 8 of us. I wasn’t taking nearly as many pictures as I usually do – I guess all the chatting with my sister was distracting me!! I noticed this after we got back – but what can you do (plan another trip I guess!!!!)

Once back at the villas, we had our snack of chips and salsa and headed for the pool. It was overcast and cooler but we didn’t care. (Remember – we had left almost a foot of snow at home!!!) The pool was warm and we spent two hours splashing, sliding and swimming. Afterwards we headed back to the villa for dinner – nothing fancy tonight – hot dogs and leftovers – our cupboard was starting to run low!! (Oh no – the end is near!!)

After dinner the kids settled in with their gameboys and a movie. Everyone was pretty tired and content. But you can’t be tired – we’re in Disney! Just a quick boat ride to the Magic Kingdom! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE!! We can’t just hang out here and enjoy each other’s company? Or can we?

Well, I tried. I couldn’t do it. I gave my poor & exhausted DH my best pitiful, poor me face (and reminded him that he had played golf the day before) and he knew exactly what to do…”Why don’t we go over to the MK – just the two of us?” I know I married that man for a reason!

We headed to the dock and quickly were on a launch headed to the Magic Kingdom. It was getting a little cool and luckily my man came thru for me again and lent me his windbreaker. When we got onto Main Street, Spectromagic was just ending and the place was packed. We walked through the stores and came out of Casey’s right in front of the hub. It was still wall-to-wall people but we managed to get a fairly good spot.

Wishes was beautiful. The sky was clear and it wasn’t too cold (although I was grateful for my husband’s windbreaker.) Both of us couldn’t help think that the kids were going to love it. After wishes, we browsed through the stores again but didn’t really pick up much. We were pretty tired and just a little bit lost in such a Magical place without our children. (We’re such losers!) When we got back to our room almost everyone was asleep. My sister was up and doing a load of laundry but I offered to finish it and she went to bed. My DH was asleep before he hit the bed (he is gifted like that). I jotted down some trip notes, enjoyed the solitude and finished the laundry (have I said yet that I love these villas.) I puttered quietly around the room – straightening up, etc. We would have to start packing up in earnest tomorrow – we were checking out on Saturday.

 

[riopooh]

Friday, Feb 25: Day Five (Pt One): Our Last Day – Wah!!

Ah, there is nothing like the Magic Kingdom in the rain. Actually, the morning was overcast and drizzly – not too bad. This morning, we were up and at it pretty early (well, for us at least) - 9am – our earliest start yet. I had a good reason to get them moving – I wanted to do something I had never done before – I wanted to ride Dumbo. (Yes, here I am a veteran of over 20 trips, dating back to 1972 when I was 7 years old – and I had never ridden in one of the iconic flying elephants.) We also had a 10:20 priority seating for breakfast with Cinderella (I was on the phone at 7am several days to arrange that – I had two at first but as we finalized our plans, I cancelled one – hopefully making someone else’s dream come true when they were able to secure that coveted reservation only one month out!). When we were planning this trip I gave everyone there choice of character meals and this is the one they choose – I was surprised considering my nephews. My sister figured that this would be a good choice considering DN2’s fear of characters plus she also had a secret childhood desire - she wanted to see the inside of the castle! My DN2 was very excited about this meal – he wanted to see Cinderella flipping the pancakes (my BIL was responsible for that one!)

We headed straight to Dumbo where after only a short wait (two ride cycles) I finally got the ride I had always dreamed of over Fantasyland – well kind off – the little elephants go pretty high and my DD wanted none of that – we flew at a very cautious altitude (I should have gone with the boys!)

After leaving our friendly flying elephants behind, we split up. My Sis & BIL took their boys to ride the Grand Prix cars that they had been coveting since our first day and my DH & son went to ride some of the big rides. My DD wanted to ride some more of the rides in Fantasyland. (That’s my girl – you can ride go-carts anywhere!)

DD and I were able to hit some of the biggies in Fantasyland – Snow White’s Scary Adventure and Peter Pan (It’s a Small World was closed for refurbishment) and then we went got to say hello to everyone’s favorite redhead – Ariel. My DD was very excited to see Ariel but naturally when it was finally our turn, she was all shy. But Ariel was very gracious and my little princesses climbed up for a picture and a hug. Then we rushed to the castle to meet up with everyone.

We didn’t have our cell phones with us but we managed to meet up. My husband and son were the last to show and they were soaking wet from their last ride on Splash Mountain. They had managed to hit some pretty major rides – Stitch’s Great Escape (which my son hated – too stinky) and then Big Thunder RR and finally, Splash Mountain. My two nephews had fun on the Grand Prix racecars – I think they had done two rounds each.

We waited a short while and soon our table was ready and we ascended the spiral staircase. My nephews were in awe but my daughter acted as if she ate with royalty everyday (we had done this meal a year and a half earlier before for her third birthday.)

We settled in to our table against the back wall. It was kind of a booth, four of us sat along the wall on a red velvet bench. This worked out great for us because my DN2 wasn’t sure how he felt about meeting these princesses so he was able to sit back and observe the goings on. We also weren’t surrounded by hubbub so it made for rather pleasant breakfast. When we got there the princesses were out so we ordered our breakfasts and had some coffee. My BIL rolled his eyes at being called “my Lord” but once the food started rolling in, he forgot to be sarcastic. The food was delicious (or we were very hungry) and we were half way through our main course when the princesses started working the room. My DS had decided that at 10yo he is too old to pose with princesses so he grabbed one of my cameras and started snapping away (thanks goodness for digital cameras!) I was surprised my nephews were as cooperative as they were. We took photos with Cinderella, Belle, Mary Poppins, Aurora and Snow White. There wasn’t much interaction – I think we were the last table in the room so those ladies wanted out of there. My daughter was under whelmed – she did the pictures but barely cracked a smile. I think this might be our last meal in the castle. It’s more hype than substance and not really worth the price. We just weren’t having very Magical Character meals this trip.

We were among the last to leave the dining room and when we went downstairs, the Fairy Godmother was sitting by herself in her fancy chair (throne?) so my DD and DN2 stopped for a picture and a little chat (thus injecting some magic into an otherwise ho hum experience.) She was very nice and they were very cute (well, they are always cute) and I got a photo of the three of them with the only genuine smiles of the experience.

After leaving the castle, we headed to Adventureland. We walked right into the Tiki Room, then grabbed Fast passes for the Jungle Cruise and headed over to the Pirates of the Caribbean. Neither my DD nor DN2 particularly enjoyed this one, although they did like the moving sidewalk at the end.

Soon it was time for our Jungle Cruise fast pass window. It never ceases to amaze me how many people choose to not fast pass and then glare at you as you fly past them in line (It is like EZ Pass at the bridge tolls – I just don’t get why people don’t have it!) Our skipper was a Hong Kong Disney World trainee and was very animated and enthusiastic but difficult to understand. The kids sat/stood in the middle section of the boat and he was very attentive to them. I don’t think they understood any of what he was saying but they were fascinated by everything there was to see. I really feel that the animatronics need some updating – but I do enjoy the classic feel of it. (And the spiel is so much better than the Animal Kingdom Safari storyline even though that is a wonderfully different experience.) After our multicultural cruise, we did a few pressed pennies and took the little cruise ships for a spin.

Next we headed to the Frontierland mountain range – Big Thunder and Splash Mountain. We ran our tickets through the Fast Pass machine for passes to Big Thunder and practically walked onto Splash Mountain via the standby line. (My sister took the two 4 yo’s to the play area and I joined the big boys). The sky overhead was looking pretty ominous and sure enough, halfway through the line, the sky opened up and we got prematurely soaked. We didn’t mind- we were headed for the big drop and splash anyway! My BIL couldn’t get over the detailing in our ride through the Briar Patch and my DS and I had a great time spotting hidden Mickeys (he had found one earlier with his father and couldn’t wait to show me). After we got off the ride, we went to find my sister. My nephew was having a great time in the play area but my DD was getting annoyed at the drips and wet spots left by other children in their ponchos and wet sneakers. The big boys went off to ride Big Thunder and I decided to run and get Fast passes for Mickey’s PhilharMagic. By the time I got back, the big boys had used all 8 Big Thunder RR Fast passes and rode that wild RR ride twice in the rain. My DN1 was smiles from ear to ear – he really loved it! (My DH says he and I have the same smile when we were in Disney – all teeth and ear-to-ear – that’s my godson!)

We loved, loved, loved Mickey’s PhilharMagic I even found myself reaching out to touch things. The kids were all jumping and grabbing and laughing – it was very well done. My daughter was amazed that Donald was talking right to her and that they kept throwing everything right at her! It was hysterical and she was utterly convinced it was all for her.

As we meandered our way out of the Magic Kingdom, we took the obligatory photos of each family in the castle forecourt. By now the sun was out and even though the sky was still gray, at least it was a sign that it was clearing. As we went down Main Street, I grabbed a Photopass photographer so we could get a group shot. The woman lined us up with the castle in the background and took the photo. My sister asked about the Tinkerbell thing and the woman replied that Tink only comes out for Main St shots so she turned us around and lined us up with Main Street in the background and had the kids each put there hands out for a surprise. My kids have done this before but my nephews were actually expecting something to happen. Oh well. Both my sister and I were annoyed at such a blatant effort on Disney’s part to get some more of our hard earned money.

PS: It ends up we almost had the last laugh on the effort to get us to buy both Photopass pictures. Unbeknownst to us when they were taking the castle picture, my son held his hand out in a way to make a perfect landing spot for Tinkerbell, and sure enough, when we got the photos, there she was! Of course, we did end up buying both photos in the long run.

 

[riopooh]

Friday, Feb 25: Day Five (Pt Two): Twinkle lights and Cloudy Wishes

As per our usual routine – it was time to head back to our home away from home and get some rest, relaxation and food! After our swim, my DH grabbed some pizzas from Roaring Forks to supplement our meager leftovers and then we bundled up and headed back to the Magic Kingdom for SpectroMagic and Wishes. It was a little cool but we were comfortable in sweatshirts.

Once we entered the Magic Kingdom, we headed straight for the train station. Main Street was already crowded in anticipation of SpectroMagic, but I knew from all my tipster friends on the DisBoards that there would be plenty of elbowroom in Frontierland. And my friends did not let me down. We found a spot by the candy shop not far from the Country Bears. We settled in until we saw sure signs of the approaching parade – merchandise carts! Soon the lights dimmed and we heard the unmistakable melody of SpectroMagic.

Now, my husband and I have a special place in our hearts for SpectroMagic and since I’ve shared so much in this trip report, I might as well share our Electric Light Parade story. Many, many moons ago when we were dating (1988), I was given the opportunity to move to Florida. The place were I was working was transferring the entire operation to Tampa and I was asked to come along. I remember discussing the deal that I was offered with my then-boyfriend who shrugged and said it looks good - so (and since he wasn’t coming up with any counter offers!) off to Tampa I went. He did visit frequently and during one of those visits, we headed to the Magic Kingdom. It was so long ago that I don’t remember many details but as the day wound down, we stopped to watch the Main Street Electrical parade and it was very magical and twinkly and fun. My DH says while he was watching the parade he saw a family with one kid up on the dad shoulders, another one watching the parade wide eyed at the curb and it was then that he decided that was what he wanted and I was the one he wanted it with. We got engaged on another one of his visits to Tampa and I moved back to NY shortly after that. So now, we always find time to stop and watch the parade. I have yet to see a daytime parade, but I am a sucker for twinkle lights!

The kids were, as we expected, enthralled by the parade. It was the first time we had seen them sit still for any extended period of time just soaking it in. After the parade, we headed through Adventureland for the path in front of the Crystal palace to watch Wishes. It was a good spot, now overly crowded but still a good vantage place. My BIL thought I was a little crazy, first the mad dash for the train to get to Frontierland then the round about trip to get to my chosen firework viewing spot. He figured it was fireworks- just look up. But when he saw the crowds and how it was a “show”; he appreciated my planning!! Unfortunately, there was a low cloud ceiling and Wishes wasn’t quite a spectacular as it had been the night before but what can you do!

At this point my sister and her crew decided to head back – they were planning on leaving very early the next morning (waahh!). We decided (being the diehards that we are) to fight the crowds and see Mickey’s Philhamagic again. Would you believe Donald kept throwing everything right at my daughter again! After the show, there wasn’t anything that we really wanted to go on so we headed back to the lodge. Check out tomorrow morning.

 

[riopooh]

Saturday, Feb 26: Day Six: Home until Next Time!

My sister and her crew were up and out by 7:30am for the drive back to New Jersey. I stumbled out of bed in time to bid them adieu but since we didn’t have to rush, I let my kids sleep in while I did the last minute sweep of the rooms. Packing wasn’t horrible. Thanks to the washing machine, I had packed lightly and was now re-packing clean clothes. That was going to make returning home so much easier – I usually dread the loads and loads of laundry after a trip – but not this time!!

My DH was up and out very bright and early. Had to take advantage of that Florida sunshine and get as much golf in as possible! The kids were exhausted so I let them sleep although by 9:30 I was getting antsy. Everything was pretty much packed and we had to be out by 11 -by the time I finally got them moving, it was just about our deadline. It was a gorgeous sunny day with bright blue skies and fluffy white clouds. Definitely the nicest day of our entire visit. It was pretty depressing walking past the pool one last time and knowing that we were headed back to reality. I had no idea what time my DH would be back and we had planned to go to Downtown Disney for lunch and last minute knick-knacks. In retrospect, we should have gone for the swim but who knew it was going to be so nice. Instead we met up with my DH and headed for lunch at the Earl of Sandwich. This was a nice treat for my husband and I; the kids hated it. The bread tasted weird, the chips were weird, whatever. I think the post-Disney crankies were up on us. We did some final shopping and finally, sadly, we bid adieu.

Our flight was at 3:30. We arrived early enough to be comfortable, close enough that we couldn’t relax or get better food for our children who refused to eat their lunches. We did have enough time and enough fore sight, to change into long pants and more NY appropriate attire while at the airport. This was key since we were flying into weather worse than we left in. Instead of a foot of light fluffy snow, we were returning in the midst of a slushy, wet snow-rainstorm. And if you remember from the beginning of this saga – our car wasn’t exactly at the airport. Double yuck.

We arrived only a little late – It was about 6:30 and just disgusting – nothing like wet slushy snow to put a damper on our sunshiny spirits. Plus we still weren’t sure how we were going to get home. My husband went to see what he could find & the kids and I collected the luggage. I am so thankful for the young man my son is starting to be. He would fight through the throng of people and lug the bags back to me – and he thought it was fun. When we were done, we stood off to the side and waited. A limo driver who was just lurking around approached me but by the time my DH got back, he had picked up another fare. I didn’t know about these “unofficial” drivers – we don’t travel a lot and when we do, it is all well planned beforehand. My DH hadn’t any luck with cabs. I told him about the lurkers so he set off to see what he could see. It was very weird – almost like a drug deal (I would imagine!). He was approached by a guy who said he could get us a ride. The guy got on a cell phone and then told us to got over to the handicapped section of the parking garage and there would be a black SUV waiting for us. It was weird but we were desperate. It also helps that my Dh is 6’3” and I feel confident following him anywhere. The “cab” driver ended up being a young woman driving a BMW SUV who turned out to be a single mom going to law school at SJU and she makes extra cash by driving for a friend. That little ride cost $75 plus tip (almost twice as much as the cab ride there.)

Finally we were home in our snug little house with our very excited little (?) puppy – a four month-old black lab. He grew while we were gone. We unpacked our clean clothes (one last time – I promise – I LOVE those villas) and prepared to return to the real world. School and work the next morning!

Sigh.

 

[riopooh]

Epilogue – April, 2006

This trip report took almost as long as the planning process did – from conception to execution. So basically, I’ve been thinking about, doing and reminiscing about this trip for just over two years. Kind of ridiculous when I think about it like that. But a lot happened in these two years and in a lot of ways, having this trip was a great distraction. The whole impetus for this trip was the idea that I really wanted to do a grand gathering (of my own making) where my entire family – parents, siblings, spouses and offspring – would have this wonderful trip together, reminiscent of the many trips that I remember so fondly from my childhood. This trip didn’t turn out the way I hoped and planned and unfortunately it never will. My father recovered form that ailment that had prevented him from coming on the trip but unfortunately, my mother’s prognosis got steadily worse. She passed away in September. I am lucky that although we never got to take the family trip that she wanted – we did get to spend a great amount of time together. I have no regret because I know that I did all I could for her. I miss her dearly.

I was so depressed that my husband did what any good husband would – he took the kids and I to Disney in October for a long weekend. We had a wonderful time. That trip was a different kind of trip – we took everything at a very relaxed pace. A lot of seeing what was off the beaten path and smelling the roses. I even let my husband take a nap. On a park day.

2005 turned from the year that my mother died into the year we went to Disney twice. My husband is a smart man.

So, now what am I going to do?

Yes, we have another trip planned.


Thank you for sticking with me.