Shh, do you hear that? It's the winds of change~link to new thread post#3501

[basketlacey]

We used to be big proponents of the DDP as well, we have used it on our last 3 trips. While I still believe that it can be a good value in the right setting, I no longer believe it works for us.

My DD's are really light eaters, and oldest DD is pretty picky. Plus, quite often in "real life", if we all go to a restaurant, it is not uncommon for DH and I to order a couple of appetizers and share those, instead of being forced to eat a full meal. We actually "wasted" 3 CS meals each (9 total) this time around...because we just did not feel like eating.... I think we still got our value because we had a bunch of character meals that would have cost alot out of pocket, but my girls are really ok with not doing those character meals anymore...we've done them all, and we all agree that the food is not the greatest...

So, we are going to take a shot at having no DDP, eating the way we like and seeing how we do. The only ADR's we'll likely make are Yachtsman Steakhouse (for a date night), Be Our Guest (because it's new), and Ohana (DH favorite)...we may also do a Cape May Breakfast...just because...but otherwise, eating or "snacking" like we do in normal life...I'll think we'll come out on top. Plus it will be nice not to be tied down to a million ADR's...

All good points! We end up going when dining is "free" or in lieu of other discounts and I think it ends up being a good deal for us. I like sitting down and not worrying what things cost. But you are right that we end up eating more than we would if paying out of pocket.

Basketlacey, great day! I love that kind of success! We also had a great day yesterday because I booked flights for all five of us - non-stop direct in January for $910 total. These days, that's very exciting.

/QUOTE]

What a great score for you! Mine are still over $300 each but I keep watching.

Hello to all!

--------------------------

I've been frantically trying to get things ready for this weekend's rockstravaganza. We dropped off the House Guest from My Nightmares at the airport yesterday early morning. Rushed back home to take the kiddo to swim lessons and for my workout, signed her up for private lessons, rushed her home to give her a shower and then take her to the otolaryngologist for her ears. They did a hearing test on her and the doctor recommended she have tubes inserted in her ears since she keeps having problems with fluid build-up. She was distraught when the doctor was explaining how the surgery works. (Somehow, amazingly enough, they managed to book us in for surgery this coming Monday! ) I know it's a fairly common procedure -- but you all know how momma bears are, right? I'll be fine as long as they allow me to be with her. I calmed her down by intricately explaining how the surgery will work (to the best of my knowledge) and that she won't feel anything since she'll be taking a nap. She's just like her daddy -- needs ALL the details. All the details and a promised trip to Toys R Us afterward, that is...

We topped off yesterday's hectic day with a trip to her first ever movie theatre movie. Brave was as good as you ladies say! We had a great time. She sat through the whole thing and enjoyed herself. (Although it's a dine-in theatre, so the candy, hot dogs, lemonade and popcorn helped keep her occupied. The margaritas helped lessen mommy and daddy's stress levels.)

Good luck on the tubes!

 

[Missoutandabout]

Try not to worry too much about the tubes. Our middle DD had them in twice and it really is nothing to worry about. Yes the biggest part is the sedation, it takes them a bit to snap out of it afterwards, but she will be back to herself in no time. I know, it's scary any time our kiddos have to undergo any kind of procedure. Hugs!

Both of my girls had tubes put in at the age of 1 and they both did great! The procedure is super quick, about 20 minutes, but FEELS like forever.
Neither of my girls has had a single ear infection since...knock on wood...and neither of them have the tubes in anymore, they both had them fall out at around age 3.

Good luck on the tubes!

Thanks ladies. Much appreciated! It's nice to come here since I know y'all will understand. Just got off the phone with the surgery coordinator with all of my instructions.

Jenny: How long until she was back to normal after the anesthesia? I've only ever experienced her being "groggy" once ... ever. This will be a new experience.

Candace: Oh, that's good news on the ear infection front! I've got my fingers crossed this'll do the trick for her, too.

Both Jenny & Candace (and any other experts): How did you know when the tubes fell out? Any experience with them swimming whilst the tubes were in?

 

[Mousemommy1]

Thanks ladies. Much appreciated! It's nice to come here since I know y'all will understand. Just got off the phone with the surgery coordinator with all of my instructions.

Jenny: How long until she was back to normal after the anesthesia? I've only ever experienced her being "groggy" once ... ever. This will be a new experience.

Candace: Oh, that's good news on the ear infection front! I've got my fingers crossed this'll do the trick for her, too.

Both Jenny & Candace (and any other experts): How did you know when the tubes fell out? Any experience with them swimming whilst the tubes were in?

After the tube placement DD will have regular appointments (about every 6 months) to check on them. Some of the tube loss was detected that way....some of it...... DD8 had a tube fall out on a slice of pizza I was eating...no joke!!! A little wax covered piece of plastic.... I didn't finish that slice.

DD5 lost one during a wrestling match with DD8, she hit the ground...tube popped out!!! It was ready.

 

[gwynne]

Hello Rcers,
I hope you’re having a good Wednesday.

Magic, Homemade frozen meatballs on hand is such a timesaver, isn't it?
Also, thanks a bunch for your thoughts on Garden Grill! I’ve seen those booths when walking by, I think we’d fit fine.

Pixarmom, Thanks also to you for your additional advice on my Garden Grill dilemma. Your suggestion to call got me thinking. I’ll be there in Oct, so I think I’ll zip over to the restaurant and ask at the front. That way I’ll have an answer before November.

GG, It sounds like you’re our jetsetter! Have a wonderful time!

Kook, Yikes! I’d make a change too. You don’t want an unpleasant surprise on your vacation.

Chimo2u, Here are some more good tandem ride parasailing wishes!

Candace, Your girls are totally adorable. Congrats on your Beach Club plans!

Padawans, You get the invoice prize!! You’ve got Disney supplying your scratch paper for free. Good thinking!

Missoutandabout, Sending you hugs. It’s so normal to be worried, but I think it’s good they scheduled soon. I know you all will be glad when her ears feel and hear better!


I don't want to wish my summer away, but I can't wait to get back to WDW with DH. Food and Wine, here we come!

Waving hit to RCers I've missed.

 

[Mousemommy1]

Think I might be getting ready for my first change....

 

[Lillian Gracey]

Hello RCers!

It's been busy over the last few days! I'm thinking about pushing my trip back to May. I really enjoyed the crowds and while it was really hot, I can deal with that much better than cold weather. This is just a thought though.

I hope everyone has been doing well!

 

[Mousemommy1]

Check the ticker...slight difference, but this is huge to me!!!!

 

[newbie2013]

So I haven't read every page but I love it! My husband says I am crazy making lists etc. I currently have bookings at 2 resorts for the exact same time but am afraid to cancel one of them - I know thatbprob sounds ridiculous. We have just never been before and I want to do my best to make sure we have a great time. So hard to coordinate meals!
What's the consensus here on emh? I've heard to definitely go to the park with emh by also told definitely abound them due to larger crowds .... So which is it? I really want to finalize some breakfasts!!!

Thanks all!!!!

 

[Missoutandabout]

After the tube placement DD will have regular appointments (about every 6 months) to check on them. Some of the tube loss was detected that way....some of it...... DD8 had a tube fall out on a slice of pizza I was eating...no joke!!! A little wax covered piece of plastic.... I didn't finish that slice.

DD5 lost one during a wrestling match with DD8, she hit the ground...tube popped out!!! It was ready.

Ear Tube Pizza!

Missoutandabout, Sending you hugs. It’s so normal to be worried, but I think it’s good they scheduled soon. I know you all will be glad when her ears feel and hear better!

Thanks! I'm relieved it's going to be done quickly, especially before kindergarten starts. Will be better all around for her I think.

I don't want to wish my summer away, but I can't wait to get back to WDW with DH. Food and Wine, here we come!

Waving hit to RCers I've missed.

I'm with ya! I'm wishing it away...

Hello RCers!

It's been busy over the last few days! I'm thinking about pushing my trip back to May. I really enjoyed the crowds and while it was really hot, I can deal with that much better than cold weather. This is just a thought though.

I hope everyone has been doing well!

Hmmm. Added bonus of being able to go swimming for sure...

Check the ticker...slight difference, but this is huge to me!!!!

Yeeeeeeees! I like this change. I had to log on to another browser just to see your ticker. I've almost made it myself numerous times. What prompted you?! (The quieter atmosphere and sharing SAB have almost swayed me; I know we'll stay here eventually just for a kinda-change change. I can't give up SAB or the proximity to Epcot / DHS and the Boardwalk at night.)

So I haven't read every page but I love it! My husband says I am crazy making lists etc. I currently have bookings at 2 resorts for the exact same time but am afraid to cancel one of them - I know thatbprob sounds ridiculous. We have just never been before and I want to do my best to make sure we have a great time. So hard to coordinate meals!
What's the consensus here on emh? I've heard to definitely go to the park with emh by also told definitely abound them due to larger crowds .... So which is it? I really want to finalize some breakfasts!!!

Thanks all!!!!

Crazy about lists?! You belong here! Planning it all is part of the fun.

Regarding EMH, I'd say it depends on how much "crowd tolerance" you have. We're not keen on huge crowds. We went to DHS on an EMH day accidentally last year. Although the crowds weren't too bad, it was pretty busy. We personally would opt to avoid those parks with EMH and I've planned our September vacation that way. *crossing fingers for a September vacation that really happens*

 

[Mousemommy1]

Ear Tube Pizza!



Thanks! I'm relieved it's going to be done quickly, especially before kindergarten starts. Will be better all around for her I think.



I'm with ya! I'm wishing it away...



Hmmm. Added bonus of being able to go swimming for sure...



Yeeeeeeees! I like this change. I had to log on to another browser just to see your ticker. I've almost made it myself numerous times. What prompted you?! (The quieter atmosphere and sharing SAB have almost swayed me; I know we'll stay here eventually just for a kinda-change change. I can't give up SAB or the proximity to Epcot / DHS and the Boardwalk at night.)



Crazy about lists?! You belong here! Planning it all is part of the fun.

Regarding EMH, I'd say it depends on how much "crowd tolerance" you have. We're not keen on huge crowds. We went to DHS on an EMH day accidentally last year. Although the crowds weren't too bad, it was pretty busy. We personally would opt to avoid those parks with EMH and I've planned our September vacation that way. *crossing fingers for a September vacation that really happens*

Ok, so first a confession. I LOVE YC. I actually prefer it (looks-wise) to BC. Yes, the quieter atmosphere and still the same pool is certainly awesome too, but I love the nautical them and the color scheme of YC. Anyway, EVERYTIME I check prices for YC, they are significantly higher than BC...I realized this is because it was a pool/lagoon view at YC vs. standard or garden view at BC....I have personally NEVER seen a garden view room pop up at YC...until today!!! My jaw hit the floor, because I simply did not know such a thing existed.

I grabbed the phone and called CRO! And lo and behold, there was a room available wit my AAA discount, so I booked and YAAAAAYYY!!!!!

 

[i_heart_the_mouse]

Missoutandabout - Sending good vibes for your DD. And for you!

Mousemommy - Great change. Although BC is great, we prefer the YC. My kids always seem to match the volume of their location so quiet is good for us!

padawans - I've been getting mailed invoices for this trip too (although not 35! ). DH just shakes his head when he opens one. It's like a trip down RC memory lane. Oh yeah! Remember when we were going to...

I always used to get emails, I wonder what's up? Save the trees! Email only for the RC'ers! Are you listening WDW?????

 

[Mousemommy1]

I_heart_the_mouse - I have to say that when we visited YC and BC, it was soooooo much louder and busy at BC, which was the ONLY turnoff, and really made us appreciate how quiet and relaxed WL is....I think YC is a good solution!!!

On another note, DH just told me that I need to learn how to make towel animals, because he hasn't liked coming home and not having that to look forward to!

 

[i_heart_the_mouse]

I_heart_the_mouse - I have to say that when we visited YC and BC, it was soooooo much louder and busy at BC, which was the ONLY turnoff, and really made us appreciate how quiet and relaxed WL is....I think YC is a good solution!!!

On another note, DH just told me that I need to learn how to make towel animals, because he hasn't liked coming home and not having that to look forward to!

I was telling DH the other day that we needed a lounge here at home and he said we do, it's just that you are the CM working in it!

 

[Lillian Gracey]

Hmmm. Added bonus of being able to go swimming for sure...

I don't usually swim. I like to sit in the hot tub or go on the slides and lazy river. This would give me a reason to try BB since I have only been to TL. Though I really enjoyed TL. I wish River Country was still opened. It was open when I first went back in 2000, but we went to TL instead. I regret that decision.

 

[padawans]

Ok, so first a confession. I LOVE YC. I actually prefer it (looks-wise) to BC. Yes, the quieter atmosphere and still the same pool is certainly awesome too, but I love the nautical them and the color scheme of YC. Anyway, EVERYTIME I check prices for YC, they are significantly higher than BC...I realized this is because it was a pool/lagoon view at YC vs. standard or garden view at BC....I have personally NEVER seen a garden view room pop up at YC...until today!!! My jaw hit the floor, because I simply did not know such a thing existed.

I grabbed the phone and called CRO! And lo and behold, there was a room available wit my AAA discount, so I booked and YAAAAAYYY!!!!!

This is something we agree on. I am one of the few that prefers the Yc decor. I also preferred the room decor, the location of the laundry room, and the guaranteed balcony. The only negative I could find was the non existant refillable mug station. If there is a place at Yc to get coffee in the morning please someone let me know. I'm pretty sure you have to walk to BC. The breakfast buffet at Captains grill is pretty good. It was about 2/3 the price of Cape May.

Just to let you know if there is a conferance while you are there it can be difficult to impossible to get a GV room at yc with a good discount. The same thing goes for BC. I'm sure if you get 40% off you won't mind upgrading to LV.

 

[jennyjinx3]

Miss: As far as swimming with the tubes in, our DD wore silicone earplugs, and then I put a headband ear wrap over top of that (it fastened with velcro at the bottom back of the head). She had swimming lessons at the time, and no water in the ears. You can also get customized earplugs made just for their ears, but we didn't go that route. Hope that helps you some.

Also, I think after an hour or so after the sedation wore off, she was more like her normal self.

MM: Isn't it so hard to pick just one place to stay at one time??? The YC sounds very nice! Congrats!!

to everyone else....have a good night sleep!!

 

[i_heart_the_mouse]

This is something we agree on. I am one of the few that prefers the Yc decor. I also preferred the room decor, the location of the laundry room, and the guaranteed balcony. The only negative I could find was the non existant refillable mug station. If there is a place at Yc to get coffee in the morning please someone let me know. I'm pretty sure you have to walk to BC. The breakfast buffet at Captains grill is pretty good. It was about 2/3 the price of Cape May.

Just to let you know if there is a conferance while you are there it can be difficult to impossible to get a GV room at yc with a good discount. The same thing goes for BC. I'm sure if you get 40% off you won't mind upgrading to LV.

Ale and Compass is right off the lobby and I think you can get coffee in your mug there.

 

[jennyjinx3]

Ale and Compass is right off the lobby and I think you can get coffee in your mug there.

Hi! How is your DS?

 

[amandaw]

Where are you staying the rest of the time then?

OKW, I know I'm not amanda...

Yep....1st two nights @ BC & then move to OKW for 7 nights.

And you can speak for me anytime, Jeanette!

YIPEE! I agree with Amandaw, we can officially say next month we will be at Disney!

It's so exciting!!! Can you believe our trips are finally starting to get close?

Check the ticker...slight difference, but this is huge to me!!!!

Woo Hoo! Congrats on the change!

 

[Mousemommy1]

This is something we agree on. I am one of the few that prefers the Yc decor. I also preferred the room decor, the location of the laundry room, and the guaranteed balcony. The only negative I could find was the non existant refillable mug station. If there is a place at Yc to get coffee in the morning please someone let me know. I'm pretty sure you have to walk to BC. The breakfast buffet at Captains grill is pretty good. It was about 2/3 the price of Cape May.

Just to let you know if there is a conferance while you are there it can be difficult to impossible to get a GV room at yc with a good discount. The same thing goes for BC. I'm sure if you get 40% off you won't mind upgrading to LV.

Or CL, you know....if I HAVE to...