The Fabby LapuLapuettes Part IV: My Pineapple Needs a Refill!

[MRYPPNS]

Heidi, I love your "I Love Mickey" graphic. Very cute.

Thanks.....I wanted something for Valentine's Day....feel free to steal it!

 

[trixiequilts]

Yeah, Trixie! I was hoping you'd do a TR! You do realize I'm going to end up trying to find internet access at POR just so I can see it, right?

Once you're there, you won't be thinking about my trip, believe me! Seriously. I thought I'd miss having my computer (you all know how much I love my computer) but it was fine. I was so tired at night and there was so much to think about, I probably wouldn't have used it at all!

 

[TarzansKat]

Hello Lapuettes! We have returned.


It.

Was.

Amazing!

Welcome home, hon! So glad to hear you had a great time, and I can't wait to read all about it!

 

[Sarilas]

OMG you leave tomorrow!!! OH PLEASE have a great and safe trip!!! I can't wait to hear all about your adventures when you return!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you, thank you, thank you! Everyone's so hyped up around here I'm going to have to slip them a mickey (NoMickey) to get them to sleep!

Once you're there, you won't be thinking about my trip, believe me! Seriously. I thought I'd miss having my computer (you all know how much I love my computer) but it was fine. I was so tired at night and there was so much to think about, I probably wouldn't have used it at all!

You're probably right- but I will be dying to share what happens. I wonder if there's a way to share from the park... must research...

 

[MegansMom]

Trixie---SO glad to hear you are back safe and sound, and that you had an AMAZING time!!! You were thought of too---we were all wishing we could be with you guys having a blast!!!

Lara---ENJOY THE HECK OUT OF YOURSELVES!!!!! I can't believe that it is FINALLY, yes really---no she isn't going to change anything now---HERE!!!! We will miss you girl, but will know you all are having the BEST of times!!!

Heidi--I'm going to have to look up your tip--how neat!!!

Well gang, our 14" of snow and 2" of ice finally caught up with us yesterday morning--our power went out at 10am. Megs and I huddled together under blankets looking at Disney books and having a GRAND OLE TIME!!!! We did pack up to go spend the night at my parents, but luckily found out while we were out eating that our power was restored at 8pm last night. So GLAD to have power back!!! Megs hasn't had preschool all week (MWF), and it isn't looking good for tomorrow---she is MISSING it so much!! I know she loves playing with me, but I also know she would rather be playing with her friends!!! All this time with nothing to do has made my vacant mind wander----over LOTS of plans and ideas for the trip in September.........I might even be considering other resorts-----AAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHH GASP!!!!!! I know......shocking doesn't even begin to describe it. My little mind has had too much time to crunch numbers, play with scenarios, and such. We shall see what just so happens to come to pass........did I mention that I found out that it might be possible to book in March for a stay at BLT in September? And did I mention that for some reason AKV has started to become an interesting option for the two of us???? As well as a return to BWV???? Or maybe another run at CSR???? Or should we break from our norm and stay at POFQ???? There are just WAY too many decisions to make!!!! Do you guys want to weigh in on this topic???????

 

[trixiequilts]

And did I mention that for some reason AKV has started to become an interesting option for the two of us???? Do you guys want to weigh in on this topic???????

I can very highly recommend AKV! I thought the bus service was very good (although, of course, I have no comparison) and it didn't seem as far removed from everything as I thought it would. I think one driver said MK was only a 12 minute drive. DTD was longer, but it never bothered me.

Having the animals there was amazing. Is Megan into animals? My girls really are and they thought it was great.

 

[MegansMom]

I can very highly recommend AKV! I thought the bus service was very good (although, of course, I have no comparison) and it didn't seem as far removed from everything as I thought it would. I think one driver said MK was only a 12 minute drive. DTD was longer, but it never bothered me.

Having the animals there was amazing. Is Megan into animals? My girls really are and they thought it was great.

I am so glad to hear your stay there was good!!! I am a little concerned about the buses, but glad your experience was favorable!!! I want as much info about it as POSSIBLE!!!! Divulge all you want!!!!

 

[Charleston Princess]

Well gang, our 14" of snow and 2" of ice finally caught up with us yesterday morning--our power went out at 10am. Megs and I huddled together under blankets looking at Disney books and having a GRAND OLE TIME!!!! We did pack up to go spend the night at my parents, but luckily found out while we were out eating that our power was restored at 8pm last night. So GLAD to have power back!!! Megs hasn't had preschool all week (MWF), and it isn't looking good for tomorrow---she is MISSING it so much!! I know she loves playing with me, but I also know she would rather be playing with her friends!!! All this time with nothing to do has made my vacant mind wander----over LOTS of plans and ideas for the trip in September.........I might even be considering other resorts-----AAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHH GASP!!!!!! I know......shocking doesn't even begin to describe it. My little mind has had too much time to crunch numbers, play with scenarios, and such. We shall see what just so happens to come to pass........did I mention that I found out that it might be possible to book in March for a stay at BLT in September? And did I mention that for some reason AKV has started to become an interesting option for the two of us???? As well as a return to BWV???? Or maybe another run at CSR???? Or should we break from our norm and stay at POFQ???? There are just WAY too many decisions to make!!!! Do you guys want to weigh in on this topic???????

Ugghhh, having no power kind of ruins the whole snowy ambiance in my mind. I don't do well without electricity!

Here's my opinion: I am jonesing for a trip to WDW so badly at this point that all your options sound divine. I am no help at all, am I?

I can very highly recommend AKV! I thought the bus service was very good (although, of course, I have no comparison) and it didn't seem as far removed from everything as I thought it would. I think one driver said MK was only a 12 minute drive. DTD was longer, but it never bothered me.

Oh, really...

I knew I should have switched resorts when I called today to make a payment.

 

[Sarilas]

Lara---ENJOY THE HECK OUT OF YOURSELVES!!!!! I can't believe that it is FINALLY, yes really---no she isn't going to change anything now---HERE!!!! We will miss you girl, but will know you all are having the BEST of times!!!

Thank you!!!

This is it gang- my last Lapuette post before I come home and actually know what I'm talking about concerning Disney World! See you in 11 days!

 

[Lady Lallie]

Thank you!!!

This is it gang- my last Lapuette post before I come home and actually know what I'm talking about concerning Disney World! See you in 11 days!

I am so happy for you. I hope you have a fabulous time. I can't wait to hear all about it.

 

[MegansMom]

Ugghhh, having no power kind of ruins the whole snowy ambiance in my mind. I don't do well without electricity!

Here's my opinion: I am jonesing for a trip to WDW so badly at this point that all your options sound divine. I am no help at all, am I?

THANKS so much for the help!!! This is my problem too----I want to stay at each for different reasons---some financially, some just because!!! I'm in BAD shape right now!!! Someone needs to either start talking me into a specific resort, or out of another one so that my list can start to dwindle!!!

Oh, really...

I knew I should have switched resorts when I called today to make a payment.

I.....can't......say.....that......I.......blame......you...... But BC is REALLY nice too!!!!!

Thank you!!!

This is it gang- my last Lapuette post before I come home and actually know what I'm talking about concerning Disney World! See you in 11 days!

I know Lara isn't going to see this, but I am so happy for her right now guys---what a feeling she must be feeling right now as she gets ready to take her beloveds on their first trip to DISNEY!!!! I'm all ferclempt on her behalf!

 

[MRYPPNS]

THANKS so much for the help!!! This is my problem too----I want to stay at each for different reasons---some financially, some just because!!! I'm in BAD shape right now!!! Someone needs to either start talking me into a specific resort, or out of another one so that my list can start to dwindle!!!

What if you write out your very top 3 things that you want from a resort and we can help from there. Like my top 3 for picking out a resort last time were:
1. Price
2. Size of room
3. Playground and water elements suitable for Liam

It really helped me narrow the resorts down.

 

[MegansMom]

What if you write out your very top 3 things that you want from a resort and we can help from there. Like my top 3 for picking out a resort last time were:
1. Price
2. Size of room
3. Playground and water elements suitable for Liam

It really helped me narrow the resorts down.

Okay Heidi---you are going to force me to focus!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BTW---loved your tippie in the newsletter!!!! WTG!

I will attempt a list: I am going to state though now I do reserve the right to change/amend my list as I see fit!!!

1. Price---this is always a consideration---I AM married to an accountant!!! Luckily, the 40% off code, the possibility of Free Dining, and our comfort with renting points has helped in this area greatly!

2. Location/Ease of Transportation to the parks---I lumped these two together, because I really think my love of great location boils down to having an easy time getting to the parks. I don't mind if a resort is a little removed, if its' bus service is good. We will be at MK the most---I do know that for sure.

3. A suitable pool facility for Megs---she is only 5 and not the best or most adventurous swimmer. She would like a pool area that she can have fun in as well.

4. (Can I have a 4?) We would like a place with restaurants/counter service in it.

Okay gang.......have at it!!! You can reference the list of all the ones I am now considering to see what it is already narrowed down to----oh here it is:BLT, WL, AKV, BWV, POFQ, CSR-----but am always open to new suggestions too!

 

[MRYPPNS]

Okay Heidi---you are going to force me to focus!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BTW---loved your tippie in the newsletter!!!! WTG!

I will attempt a list: I am going to state though now I do reserve the right to change/amend my list as I see fit!!!

1. Price---this is always a consideration---I AM married to an accountant!!! Luckily, the 40% off code, the possibility of Free Dining, and our comfort with renting points has helped in this area greatly!

2. Location/Ease of Transportation to the parks---I lumped these two together, because I really think my love of great location boils down to having an easy time getting to the parks. I don't mind if a resort is a little removed, if its' bus service is good. We will be at MK the most---I do know that for sure.

3. A suitable pool facility for Megs---she is only 5 and not the best or most adventurous swimmer. She would like a pool area that she can have fun in as well.

4. (Can I have a 4?) We would like a place with restaurants/counter service in it.

Okay gang.......have at it!!! You can reference the list of all the ones I am now considering to see what it is already narrowed down to----oh here it is:BLT, WL, AKV, BWV, POFQ, CSR-----but am always open to new suggestions too!

OK here are my thoughts:

BLT: I think you hit #'s 2, 3 & 4 here with excellent results...I bet they they do a kiddie water area that is cool like at CBR.

Price......BLT is going to be hot for bookings, that could be the only negative.

WL: good on #1 & 2.

Kiddie pool at WL looks lame, but the big pool looks nice (does it have zero entry? that would be a plus) #4 .....Roarin' forks good but I'd worry about the noise level at WCC with Megs.

AKV: good on #1 & 2 & 4 Even thou it's out of the way, AKL/V only has one bus stop and doesn't share with another resort. And for restuarants you will have plenty of choices with the new offerings in the DVC part.
Pool: don't have first hand knowledge but I would think it would be on par with WL.

I'm not thrilled with BWV, POFQ or CSR for you.

Not loving the transport from BWV to MK but restuatants would be outstanding.

POFQ is just out......I don't like the pool for Megs and there is only CS there. Transportation/buses sometimes share with Riverside. Price is good. Boat to DTD is cool.

CSR....I think there are better choices. Maya Grill gets bad reviews. Pepper Market is a deal on the dinning plan, not so much if you pay cash and it's not quick to eat there. Location to MK is really good but I don't have any knowledge about their buses.

To sum up in order .....

#1 BLT (if you can get it for a price you are comfortable with)

#2 AKV

#3 WL

Hope that was more helpful then confusing!!!!

 

[trixiequilts]

AKV: good on #1 & 2 & 4 Even thou it's out of the way, AKL/V only has one bus stop and doesn't share with another resort. And for restuarants you will have plenty of choices with the new offerings in the DVC part.
Pool: don't have first hand knowledge but I would think it would be on par with WL.

I thought the pool was great, and I think it would really work for you. It is zero entry, and the slide (which nobody ever talks about) is big enough without being too scary for Megan. For my girls it could have been a little bigger, but I told them to lay down flat so they'd go faster!


How much more do you think you're going to have to pay to rent points for BLT?

 

[trixiequilts]

Here's what I've thrown together so far about our adventures. I put in lots of pics for you (especially Jen and CP)!

I we had reserved a studio villa (queen bed and sleeper sofa) with a standard view. All the standard view studios at AKV have a pool view. I’d been looking forward to seeing this from my room for 6 months. Photo credit to pigpen, I believe.

We arrived safe and sound to AKL between 1 and 1:30 and I started the check-in process. Sadly, the room wasn’t ready, but I didn’t really care because the nice CM told me that we were being upgraded!!! I didn’t even ask what we were being upgraded to in case she was making a mistake…I didn’t want her to catch on!!! The only upgrades as far as I knew would be a studio with a savannah view, or club level, or a huge upgrade to a 1-bedroom villa. Either way, I was all good with that. She gave me the typical check in blah blah blah (didn’t she realize that I knew everything about the place already? ) and gave me the card with the number to call to see if the room was ready. Only at that point did I ask about the upgrade. Sure enough, savannah view (around a $200 difference~not a huge amount I know, but enough of a difference that we decided not to pay it when we booked)! Now, because I’m me, I knew that animals weren’t on certain savannahs at certain times because AKL is acclimating the animals to the savannahs for the new DVC building there. So I very casually asked if there were animals on that particular savannah. Yes indeedy, there were! The girls and DH totally flipped out!

We ate lunch at the Mara, and were going to store our carry-ons when I asked the concierge about where to do that. She checked on our room and it was ready! It was a 5th floor room nice and close to the lobby, but not too close. I had a few concerns that the rooms were going to be dark, but when we walked in, all my worries were put to rest (even though this picture is a bit dark, the rest were more accurate to how I remember it...as much as I'd like to be, I am not a great photographer).

We couldn’t believe it. DH and the girls just stood out on the balcony watching while I took some quick pics of the room before it got destroyed. I loved it. It was perfect!

Here are our new friends.

Not too shabby for a rookie!

 

[pooh'smate]

Trixie, I love all your pictures. Yea for the upgrade. My dd would love, love, love the animals. Maybe I will win the lottery so I can upgrade.

 

[Lady Lallie]

Trixie!! Your room looks amazing. I think a stay at AKL is in my future.

CP, I will be shocked and amazed if you don't swtich.

 

[pooh'smate]

I just found out that the 20th anniversary edition of Oliver and Company will be out on Tuesday!!!!! I have never seen it and I am looking forward to it after all the talk about it a little while back!!!! Lexi is already excited about it because they have been showing clips of it during Playhouse Disney.

 

[jenjolt]

Trixie!! Your room looks amazing. I think a stay at AKL is in my future.

CP, I will be shocked and amazed if you don't swtich.

THOU SHALT NOT Enable!!! Thou shalt not Enable!!!!!