Shh - DW does not know about our DL trip with lunch/diner at Club 33 - advise needed

[d'Isigny]

As a normal lurker – poster for the cruise thread...I’ll take a ‘stab’ at requesting your support/input for our up-and-coming DL trip – mid/end of this October.

(A little background)...my bride (& our family) has had a rough 2 years. Her DM...my DMIL has been slowly recovering from a highly debilitating stroke. Regretfully, we are ‘holding on to’ small improvements and ‘in prayer’ for each and every enhancement to DMIL’s health. My bride has been supporting with ‘every other day’ visits – sharing this responsibility with her Father – my DFIL. I applaud her for this effort – and support in every way I can. This summer has been a financial challenge – we are very blessed...and probably not alone – am sure there are many others ‘feeling this pinch’. We’ve used our vacation budget to send our DD’s to a week at a Christian camp – money well spent. However...we are due a little time together as a couple and very ready for a brief escape. I’ve stashed some extra and have earned some additional income due by the end of this month to make this little ‘get-a-way’ a possibility.

As I’ve just been made aware, our sales branch in Northern California has a membership to Club 33. How this has eluded me for the past 5 years is a mystery – in itself. Through a contact of a contact...I’ll know in 8 days...if we can get a reservation for lunch or diner – sure could use some ‘pixie dust’ on this. If all goes well...my DW and I will leave on a Friday afternoon for DL to return home on Sunday. After checking into our hotel...we will spend Friday late afternoon/evening enjoying Downtown Disney. We have Saturday covered – parks with lunch or diner at Club 33.

(Yes...he has a question) Our flights will probably not leave till early/mid afternoon on Sunday. So, an extra day in the parks is probably not the best option – too much stress to get to the airport and return home. Where I need some help from you all is...what do we do for a few hours - possibly breakfast on Sunday morning?

Here’s an ‘extra kicker’...my bride...of almost 23 years...does not know I’m planning this little ‘get-a-way’. I’ve made arrangements to have our DD’s well taken care of between DFIL and my DM &/or DSister – they’ll be spoiled - beyond repair (LOL). Here's something very riskey - I plan on telling my DBride the evening before we travel. She won’t know ‘what/where’ we are going/doing....just to pack a bag and be ready to leave the home at x-O’clock the following morning. This is the first time I've attempted this 'little trick'...so...any with input on surprising my DBride would be appreciated. I'm OK if you dis-agree with this 'plan'.

Again...I am looking for a way to enjoy the morning prior to our return home. We will not have a car and will rely on taxi or ground transportation to return us to Orange County Airport...mid/late afternoon. Any/all suggestions are welcome. Thank you for reading...reply if you have suggestions or options to make the most out of this time together.

 

[cheshiregirl]

So sorry to hear about your extended family's issues, but please enjoy your mini-cation!

I personally think that your DW is very lucky to have a husband like you. My DH is wonderful, but would never think of something like a surprise trip to DLR.

As for Sunday morning, perhaps you would enjoy Mimi's Cafe. We have one just a few miles down the road from us here in Vegas and it's our traditional Sunday brunch stop. There is one in Anaheim right next to the Hojo's, and it gets great reviews as well. I highly recommend the Pain Perdu breakfast which is a french toast stuffed with a mixture of cream cheese and orange marmalade, and then is served with eggs, potatos, and your choice of bacon or sausage and a small glass of fresh squeezed orange juice.

Or, if you are looking to extend the Disney magic into Sunday morning, I would recommend Storytellers Cafe at the GC. Chip and Dale host a character breakfast, but unlike Goofy's (at the DLH) you have your choice between ordering from a menu or a buffet, which allows you a little more flexibility to control the cost.

 

[Gisele]

OMG! that breakfast sounds sooooo good!

 

[bethy]

I am doing almost the EXACT same trip for my DH in September! He does know we are having a getaway since I had to make sure he took the time off of work. But he thinks we are going to a nice hotel nearby to spend the weekend. Our flight leaves a little later on Sunday and so we'll have time to hang out. Since we are AP holders we will play it by ear and see what we feel like but I think I could see us sleeping in and then hanging by the pool. I am praying for warm enough weather to do that.

I am trying to figure out when and how to tell him where we are going. He REALLY seems like the type of guy who would appreciate a little notice. But - oh - I would so love to tell him at the airport!

I'll look forward to reading everyone's suggestions!

 

[bumbershoot]

Sounds like fun!

2 things.

As a person who despises surprises unless they work 110% (which means...do not try a surprise b/c you won't know if I'll despise it until after it's happened), I would give her a bit more than that evening to prepare. You don't necessarily know what clothes she would want to take, and what if what she wants needs to be dry-cleaned? (if you tell her that one outfit should be a bit fancy)

Also, when we were visiting lost and found repeatedly, we found out that Club 33 people have to check in early over at Guest Relations, so unless you can check in alone (I do not know if you have to have everyone there or not) you will want to plan on that moment being when DW finds out.

 

[Whidbey5]

Good job! She'll be thrilled! How lucky you both are to get to dine at Club 33. I'm dying to go, but I'm pretty sure school districts don't have corporate memberships!

A couple of weeks ago we were in your shoes, time wise. We needed to be on the road, headed north by 11 am. We decided to pack our bags the night before, enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Storyteller's, and do our last-minute shopping at Downtown Disney.

By the time we got back to the GC, we had 15 minutes to get our bags, have our car brought around, and get on the road.

It was a very pleasant morning.

Have a GREAT trip!

 

[Queenbillabong]

Way to go on such a wonderful surprise! I know I would love it - although I have to agree that I'd like more than one day's warning (I'm a packer for sure!!), but it would also be great to have someone else plan it.

I've heard the Sunday Gospel Brunch at House of Blues is very good! I would love to give that a try - music and a great brunch

 

[tinkermell]

As a normal lurker – poster for the cruise thread...I’ll take a ‘stab’ at requesting your support/input for our up-and-coming DL trip – mid/end of this October.

(A little background)...my bride (& our family) has had a rough 2 years. Her DM...my DMIL has been slowly recovering from a highly debilitating stroke. Regretfully, we are ‘holding on to’ small improvements and ‘in prayer’ for each and every enhancement to DMIL’s health. My bride has been supporting with ‘every other day’ visits – sharing this responsibility with her Father – my DFIL. I applaud her for this effort – and support in every way I can. This summer has been a financial challenge – we are very blessed...and probably not alone – am sure there are many others ‘feeling this pinch’. We’ve used our vacation budget to send our DD’s to a week at a Christian camp – money well spent. However...we are due a little time together as a couple and very ready for a brief escape. I’ve stashed some extra and have earned some additional income due by the end of this month to make this little ‘get-a-way’ a possibility.

As I’ve just been made aware, our sales branch in Northern California has a membership to Club 33. How this has eluded me for the past 5 years is a mystery – in itself. Through a contact of a contact...I’ll know in 8 days...if we can get a reservation for lunch or diner – sure could use some ‘pixie dust’ on this. If all goes well...my DW and I will leave on a Friday afternoon for DL to return home on Sunday. After checking into our hotel...we will spend Friday late afternoon/evening enjoying Downtown Disney. We have Saturday covered – parks with lunch or diner at Club 33.

(Yes...he has a question) Our flights will probably not leave till early/mid afternoon on Sunday. So, an extra day in the parks is probably not the best option – too much stress to get to the airport and return home. Where I need some help from you all is...what do we do for a few hours - possibly breakfast on Sunday morning?

Here’s an ‘extra kicker’...my bride...of almost 23 years...does not know I’m planning this little ‘get-a-way’. I’ve made arrangements to have our DD’s well taken care of between DFIL and my DM &/or DSister – they’ll be spoiled - beyond repair (LOL). Here's something very riskey - I plan on telling my DBride the evening before we travel. She won’t know ‘what/where’ we are going/doing....just to pack a bag and be ready to leave the home at x-O’clock the following morning. This is the first time I've attempted this 'little trick'...so...any with input on surprising my DBride would be appreciated. I'm OK if you dis-agree with this 'plan'.

Again...I am looking for a way to enjoy the morning prior to our return home. We will not have a car and will rely on taxi or ground transportation to return us to Orange County Airport...mid/late afternoon. Any/all suggestions are welcome. Thank you for reading...reply if you have suggestions or options to make the most out of this time together.

Well I must say, that your "bride" of 23 years is one lucky lady!

I think the Storytellers breakfast is a great idea.

I also noticed that your siggie lists trips to WDW, and not DL. Is this your first trip to DL? If it is, you should check out Hyroguy's Stickeys at the top of this forum. He has alot of great info for WDW vets going to DL for the first time.

Also, I just found out, that I can get tickets to Club 33 from my niece who works for a company in Nor. Cal. also. Now I just have to decide when? I have a question for you. Do you know how much it cost to go to Club 33 per person? And does the reservation get you into DL? Thanks!

Have so much fun, and I agree about the packing. Give her a good day or more advance notice, in case she wants to wash something or whatever.

 

[Disney Dreams]

Surprise trip! How fun! And Club 33, ooh!

When we were guests at Club 33 there were 12 of us. We all had to meet at Guest Relations first, with a photo ID. That is where we were issued our park ticket for the day and lead to Club 33 for lunch. HOWEVER, I was the only one in the group that did not know why we were all there that day. (Since I was the biggest Disney lover in the group, my friend who made the arrangements kept the Club 33 element of the day a surprise from me until we arrived at the door with a 33. Although I guessed it as we entered NOS. hehe)

Tip for making the surprise go over well: Along with letting her know what weather to be prepared for, be sure to tell DW that she will want to pack very comfortable walking shoes.

As for the morning before you go back home, I don't think you mentioned where you are staying, but you could easily spend a few hours wandering through the shops at Downtown Disney, grab a little bite there, enjoy the entertainment, people watch. That would be my suggestion. Relaxing, enjoyable, and a chance for a nice souvenir.

Tinkermell, eating at Club 33 INCLUDES park admission.

- Dreams

 

[Disney Princess]

What a nice husband and father (for using your vacation money to send the kids to camp)! It sounds like you need some R and R together. I would also recommend a character breakfast at one of the resort hotels for your last morning. I don't know where you are staying, but if not at the resort you eat at, you could use the morning to relax and walk around the hotels and check them out. You could go to DD, but I think you are doing that Friday. Maybe do it again and enjoy.

As for the surprise - if you think your wife would be okay with it, wait until the night before; it sounds like fun to me! I would just ask WAY in advance (like now) about outfits she would pick for a nice night out, comfortable walking shoes, etc. Keep them in mind, and then the week or so before, you can plan on cleaning anything and having it ready to be packed for her. The night before when you have her pack, tell her - "how about this nice outfit?". You can make suggestions for her packing without giving it away way early.

Just my two cents - I hope you have a wonderful time.

 

[davidsprincess]

I think that is so sweet that after 23 years you still call her your "bride" . Enjoy your time together. Eat a nice relaxing breakfast before you have to leave. My two cents about the clothes: does your Dsis have a good relationship with your "bride"? If she does, could your sis help you out with some packing?(nice to have a girl's perspective. Please don't take offense, some guys just have no clue as to what a female would like to take). Or if you can do it, then do it. I would love for hubby to do this for me.
You are awsome for doing this for your wife and being so supportive for what she wants and probably feels she needs to do for her parents!

And most of all, HAVE FUN and ENJOY!!

 

[d'Isigny]

I personally think that your DW is very lucky to have a husband like you. My DH is wonderful, but would never think of something like a surprise trip to DLR.

** Thank you for the kind words...but, I'll have to disagree - I'm the lucky one!! **

Or, if you are looking to extend the Disney magic into Sunday morning, I would recommend Storytellers Cafe at the GC. Chip and Dale host a character breakfast, but unlike Goofy's (at the DLH) you have your choice between ordering from a menu or a buffet, which allows you a little more flexibility to control the cost.

** Ohhhh, this sounds like fun...I'll start some research - do you know if it's 'walk up'...or...do they take reservations? Oldest DD is a 'Chip n Dale' super-fan...I could have fun with that one...LOL!

I am doing almost the EXACT same trip for my DH in September! He does know we are having a getaway since I had to make sure he took the time off of work. But he thinks we are going to a nice hotel nearby to spend the weekend.

** This was kinda my thought...have her believe we are going to our favorite resort on the other side of town for a couple of days. They have a nice resturaunt so...she won't give it a second thought if I ask her to pack something nicer.

Our flight leaves a little later on Sunday and so we'll have time to hang out. Since we are AP holders we will play it by ear and see what we feel like but I think I could see us sleeping in and then hanging by the pool. I am praying for warm enough weather to do that.

** Being from Phoenix...we're ready for the heat to 'go-away'...asking for just the opposite...we want some cool - but, hope you are able to enjoy the pool and bask in the sunshine on your visit

I am trying to figure out when and how to tell him where we are going. He REALLY seems like the type of guy who would appreciate a little notice. But - oh - I would so love to tell him at the airport!.

** the airport is when I'm thinking about 'spilling the beans'. I've thought about a 'blindfold' during our drive...with some info about our trip in a card to be opened when we arrive at the airport parking garage. The Club 33 ressie...I'm hoping to hold that one --- plan on showing up at The Blue Bayou --- and making something up there. I can't...can't...can't --- wait to see the look on her face.

I'll look forward to reading everyone's suggestions!

** good luck on your surprise --- we might need to compaire notes.

As a person who despises surprises unless they work 110% (which means...do not try a surprise b/c you won't know if I'll despise it until after it's happened), I would give her a bit more than that evening to prepare. You don't necessarily know what clothes she would want to take, and what if what she wants needs to be dry-cleaned? (if you tell her that one outfit should be a bit fancy)

** I truly believe she will 'LOVE' being surprised - my biggest fear...is something she would have really wanted to wear was not dry cleaned. I've started sending some of my 'travel shirts' to the drycleaners...and keep asking if she has something to add...I hope - I hope...I'll get this one right. If not, we can always go through the gift shops at the parks or resorts and pick something up.

Also, when we were visiting lost and found repeatedly, we found out that Club 33 people have to check in early over at Guest Relations, so unless you can check in alone (I do not know if you have to have everyone there or not) you will want to plan on that moment being when DW finds out.

** From some research I've done (please...any that can clairify...PLEASE DO), the person listed as the main contact will need to check in at Guest Relations and show ID for the PH's. I'm an early riser --- she's a late sleeper...so...It's not unlike me to spend a half hour with a hobby of mine...taking early morning photos. Was planning on picking up the tickets under the 'cloak' of going out to take photos -- hee hee hee. Any with comments on 'who/whom' needs to show up...would be appreciated.

A couple of weeks ago we were in your shoes, time wise. We needed to be on the road, headed north by 11 am. We decided to pack our bags the night before, enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Storyteller's, and do our last-minute shopping at Downtown Disney. By the time we got back to the GC, we had 15 minutes to get our bags, have our car brought around, and get on the road. It was a very pleasant morning. Have a GREAT trip!

** appears we have 'a second' on Storyteller's - this sounds like fun! She'd really enjoy a character breakfast. We've only done these WITH DD's...not just us. Since it's only two nights, we will be traveling light...does GC allow persons to check a bag or two when staying at another hotel - even at a fee...it would be nice for us to eat and possibly tour Downtown Disney without our carry-on's

Way to go on such a wonderful surprise! I know I would love it - although I have to agree that I'd like more than one day's warning (I'm a packer for sure!!), but it would also be great to have someone else plan it.

** good point...am going to rethink this one --- but...I've soooo wanted to put together a 'good surprise' over on her. I truly believe she will enjoy it.

I've heard the Sunday Gospel Brunch at House of Blues is very good! I would love to give that a try - music and a great brunch

** Ohhhh another nice option. We enjoyed HoB in Orlando...I'll add this to the list.

Well I must say, that your "bride" of 23 years is one lucky lady!

** thank you for the kind words - but...again...I'm the lucky one.

I think the Storytellers breakfast is a great idea.

** we have 'a third'...I'm starting to think this has great possibilities.

I also noticed that your siggie lists trips to WDW, and not DL. Is this your first trip to DL? If it is, you should check out Hyroguy's Stickeys at the top of this forum. He has alot of great info for WDW vets going to DL for the first time.

** we've been to DL many-many times with our parents - toghter, we performed in Tomorrow land during High School, honeymooned at the Disneyland Hotel for a couple of nights...have taken DD's numerous long weekends. We just find that for longer vacations...WDW has a little more to offer us - your mileage may vary.

Also, I just found out, that I can get tickets to Club 33 from my niece who works for a company in Nor. Cal. also. Now I just have to decide when? I have a question for you. Do you know how much it cost to go to Club 33 per person? And does the reservation get you into DL? Thanks!

** from my contact...you pay for the price of the lunch or diner - this must total at/above the current cost of a park hopper ticket. so...it's around $80-85ea. You can think of it - you get a free meal...or a free park hopper ticket. Either way...I sure can't see a downside. If any has other info...please educate us both.

Have so much fun, and I agree about the packing. Give her a good day or more advance notice, in case she wants to wash something or whatever.

** ohhhh...we have another that suggests more notice....what to do - what to do - what to do.

Surprise trip! How fun! And Club 33, ooh! When we were guests at Club 33 there were 12 of us. We all had to meet at Guest Relations first, with a photo ID. That is where we were issued our park ticket for the day and lead to Club 33 for lunch. HOWEVER, I was the only one in the group that did not know why we were all there that day. (Since I was the biggest Disney lover in the group, my friend who made the arrangements kept the Club 33 element of the day a surprise from me until we arrived at the door with a 33. Although I guessed it as we entered NOS. hehe)

** hummm...I did not think the entire party needed to go to Guest Relations...I was informed the 'key person' the reservation was under needed to go and show ID. Since this will be me...I was hoping she would not need to go...I'll need to research this a little more.

Tip for making the surprise go over well: Along with letting her know what weather to be prepared for, be sure to tell DW that she will want to pack very comfortable walking shoes.

** ahhhhh - I scored well on this one. when DD's were getting back to school shoes...I 'suggested' DBride do so as well. By the time we go...these will be well broken in.

As for the morning before you go back home, I don't think you mentioned where you are staying, but you could easily spend a few hours wandering through the shops at Downtown Disney, grab a little bite there, enjoy the entertainment, people watch. That would be my suggestion. Relaxing, enjoyable, and a chance for a nice souvenir.

** I am looking into a two night stay at Candy Cane Inn. I'd love to stay on property...but one night at any DL resort = two nights (or more) elsewhere. We've always wanted to stay at Candy Cane Inn...they have always been booked...or...we got a package that included a choice of a different hotel. Hopefully...this time we can experience what many have had great things to say with their stay at CCI.

What a nice husband and father (for using your vacation money to send the kids to camp)! It sounds like you need some R and R together. I would also recommend a character breakfast at one of the resort hotels for your last morning. I don't know where you are staying, but if not at the resort you eat at, you could use the morning to relax and walk around the hotels and check them out. You could go to DD, but I think you are doing that Friday. Maybe do it again and enjoy.

** Each DD got a week up in the cool/cold mountians - away from the heat and a break from their parents. Each came home with a big smile and already started talking about a return next summer. we've always tried to put them first...so...this time...it's our turn. yep...we are overdue for a little get-away. A 'forth' vote for a character breakfast...I think I'm sold.

As for the surprise - if you think your wife would be okay with it, wait until the night before; it sounds like fun to me! I would just ask WAY in advance (like now) about outfits she would pick for a nice night out, comfortable walking shoes, etc. Keep them in mind, and then the week or so before, you can plan on cleaning anything and having it ready to be packed for her. The night before when you have her pack, tell her - "how about this nice outfit?". You can make suggestions for her packing without giving it away way early. Just my two cents - I hope you have a wonderful time.

** as earlier mentioned....this is my greatest fear - she would have wanted to wear something else...I'll keep asking or just taking extra to the dry cleaners...sure could use some pixie dust on this one. thank you for your kind wishes.

well...I've got some 'a-thinking' to do on 'the surprise'...and research on Sunday morning character breakfast. thank you for all your great suggestions - input and ideas. these are much appreciated. K

 

[cheshiregirl]

Storyteller's can be hit or miss for breakfast in terms of them taking a walk up. Your best bet is to make a Priority Seating (PS) which is the DLR equivalent of an ADR. They will make reservations starting exactly 60 days out (although what they really mean is 2 months). For example, I could make a PS today for Oct. 18th, which is actually 61 days away.

 

[d'Isigny]

I think that is so sweet that after 23 years you still call her your "bride" . Enjoy your time together. Eat a nice relaxing breakfast before you have to leave.

** your words are very kind - thank you. I'm a very blessed man to have her in my life...and blessed by her in many-many ways.

My two cents about the clothes: does your Dsis have a good relationship with your "bride"? If she does, could your sis help you out with some packing?(nice to have a girl's perspective. Please don't take offense, some guys just have no clue as to what a female would like to take). Or if you can do it, then do it. I would love for hubby to do this for me.

** you make a great suggestion. However, this made me a little sad. If DMIL had not been afflicted by a debilitating stroke...she would have LOVED being in on this. Am sure she would have had as much or more fun helping me plan this surprise. She would have been the one to pop by and pack 'my brides' bag. I do know...'my bride' will have a great time sharing this with her mom - after the fact. DMIL...will get a 'big kick' out of this one.

You are awsome for doing this for your wife and being so supportive for what she wants and probably feels she needs to do for her parents!

** your words are much too kind. I have the 'small part' in this...'my bride' takes a large role in helping care for her Mom - and is'nt that the way it should be - being a part of a family...means celebrating the good and being fully supportive when things aren't so good? How can we teach our DD's the importance of family if we don't?

And most of all, HAVE FUN and ENJOY!!

** again, thank you for your well wishes...we will most certinally enjoy this time - being together and returning to DL - just as a couple. it's been since our honeymoon since we 'held hands' and 'skipped down' mainstreet...I can picture it now.

I can sure use some 'pixie dust' while waiting to see if we can get Club 33 reservations...the window to request reservations opens next week. til then - I'll be chewing on my fingernails...fidgting in my seat...waiting on a 'good news' e-mail from our contact.

 

[pixiewings71]

Oh my!! What a wonderfully sweet and romantic thing to do for your Bride!! I love this story...she truly has found her Prince Charming.

I hope you get the tickets!! I'll keep everything crossed for you.
From what I've heard the person who's name is on the ressie must pick up the tickets so your early photography session should work GREAT!! I do suggest you tell her at least 2 days in advance but don't tell her WHERE you are going. Just tell her to pack for good weather but she will need a jacket at night, tell her she will need something nicer to wear but not formal. Good shoes are a must and sunglasses too!

OR, if you really think she needs to know first....put together a scavenger hunt for her. We did that with our girls and they loved it!! We gave them a clue and they found the treasure, which was our vacation packet wrapped in a skull scarf! lol Let her pack and then surprise her with Club 33...Oh My, I would be so surprised.........

Good luck!!

 

[bethy]

Regarding giving someone notice ahead of time so they can pack the right clothing . . . this is where I have the advantage. I always pack everything for our vacations anyway and am intimately aquainted with DH's clothing preferences and needs, etc. Normally this fact makes me roll my a bit but it does come in handy when trying to pull off a surprise like this.

As for Club 33. I'll probably tell him about it as soon as I tell him we're going to DLR. Since this is a RARE opportunity without kids he'd be sick if he thought we hadn't managed to take advantage of it. (Our kids are not that well-behaved in restaurants.)