The **NEW** Grand Floridian FAQ!(MAY 2011)

[pas130]

pas130 - Oh, my! So sorry to hear about your broken foot, what a terrible time for an injury - though I don't know a good time. Have you decided to use a scooter? I hope so; on the first night of our trip last summer, I stood for way too long in the MK, waiting on MSEP and Wishes. My hip and knee did not take it very well, and after a day of trying to hobble around the parks, DD insisted I order a scooter - what a big help! I'm a huge supporter now, it made such a difference for me. We were able to continue our trip, and DD didn't have to slow way down for ol' Mom.

I'm going to do a wheelchair. I figure it's easier than a scooter, DH can carry it onto the buses/boats etc. Since he doesn't have to push the double stroller, he can push me

 

[msmith1026]

mssmith1026 Good job keeping the secret Have a fantastic trip!!!!

Thanks, i'm so glad we were able to keep it, her reaction this morning was one of the best moments I've had being a mom yet.

mssmith1026 - One more sleep, yay! You must be so excited, how did you pack without the DD figuring it out?! Safe travels, and have a Grand vacation.

k&a&c'smom it was not easy packing without being caught. We kept the suitcases in the basement and we either had to lug the suitcases up after she went to bed, or we had to go up and down 2 levels in our house! I'll be sure to ask about the music while I'm here and will let you know!!

We have arrived at the Grand and i have to say, when we pulled up in the ME, it took my breath away. I keep telling my husband I can't believe we are here. And, we are in an amazing room in Big Pine Key, with a view that almost made our daughter faint!

 

[mariamouse]

We have arrived at the Grand and i have to say, when we pulled up in the ME, it took my breath away. I keep telling my husband I can't believe we are here. And, we are in an amazing room in Big Pine Key, with a view that almost made our daughter faint!

Have SO much fun! I take it that pic is your room view? If so, amazing!

 

[pas130]

msmith1026Absolutely amazing Enjoy your stay!

 

[BCV23]

I just wanted to add that, since posting that question about Christmas music being broadcast outdoors, I found the video below. At 0:50, you can hear "Deck the Halls" being played below the monorail entrance at valet. Starting at 7:20, you can also hear "The First Noel" faintly being played near Gasparilla's/the marina. Not sure if music is always played at either of these locations or where else Christmas music might be broadcast outside, though.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpSBNzFnK8s

I remember Christmas music playing throughout the grounds at Christmas. Have a distinct memory of leaving GF Cafe onto the grounds and hearing the lovely music. Ahh....

Great photos, everyone. msmith1026, what a lovely view. Have fun!

 

[k&a&c'smom]

BCV23 - great to see you, my friend! Thanks for the info regarding the Christmas music!

pas130 - lol about the DH pushing you instead of the stroller.

msmith1026 - You were creative with your packing! Glad you arrived safe and sound, and what a beautiful view! Enjoy your stay at the Grand.

 

[mariamouse]

I remember Christmas music playing throughout the grounds at Christmas. Have a distinct memory of leaving GF Cafe onto the grounds and hearing the lovely music. Ahh....

Thank you! This is exactly what I was hoping to hear. Less than 50 days until we are enjoying those lovely tunes at the GF!

 

[pas130]

Thank you! This is exactly what I was hoping to hear. Less than 50 days until we are enjoying those lovely tunes at the GF!

You will have a magical vacation

k&a&c'smom He's already complaining about it....I am scared I won't drive a scooter very well though...

 

[janeapplemeadow]

I'm going to do a wheelchair. I figure it's easier than a scooter, DH can carry it onto the buses/boats etc. Since he doesn't have to push the double stroller, he can push me

Pas 130 don't worry about your scooter driving skills. The important thing is you are still able to go. Just don't run into the back of anyone's legs and you should be fine. The CMs at the Grand are very helpful to those in scooters. Hope you have a great time.

 

[Jungle Cruiser]

Finally feeling up to posting again. I am having a tough time with my current chemo protocol, but reading these threads and seeing the wonderful GF pictures puts a smile on my face!

Everyone who is at the GF now, I hope you are having a wonderful time! pas130, sorry about your foot, but I am sure you will have a great time whether you are in a wheelchair or scooter.

Lulu'smom, thinking about you and no matter what, keep that vision of the RPC in the spring in your sights.

Now, time to find a picture to post!

 

[KCmike]

Finally feeling up to posting again. I am having a tough time with my current chemo protocol, but reading these threads and seeing the wonderful GF pictures puts a smile on my face!

Everyone who is at the GF now, I hope you are having a wonderful time! pas130, sorry about your foot, but I am sure you will have a great time whether you are in a wheelchair or scooter.

Lulu'smom, thinking about you and no matter what, keep that vision of the RPC in the spring in your sights.

Now, time to find a picture to post!

Thoughts and prayers coming your way Jungle Cruiser. Hopefully you will bounce back stronger than ever.

 

[Jungle Cruiser]

Thank you KCMike! Just saw your great photo as I am getting ready to post one.

A few years ago we got an AMAZING upgrade from a GV room to the RPC, theme park view! Imagine getting off Magical Express and being greeted to that upgrade. This was the view from our room...we kind of had to look through palm trees but you could see the castle!

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Hang in there, Jungle Cruiser, we're all wishing you the best. I took care of my sister through her breast cancer, and FIL with his lung cancer - it's a tough road. I'm happy if anything here can help in a small way.

Love that photo of the RPC TPV! What a fantastic upgrade.

pas130 - don't worry! The scooter is less difficult than you think. I was so nervous about it, I almost didn't get one - that, and the bad attitude of some guests. It was much easier to catch on than I thought, and you can turn the speed down to "turtle" until you get familiar. (I left mine on turtle most of the time, lol) And, I'm happy to say, most of the guests were very nice.

KC Mike - thanks for the shot of Gasparilla's outdoor tables!

 

[psac]

Not having luck with my pics... But a get well to those who need it!!

 

[Scarlett81]

I posted this in family but figured I'd ask you expert GFers-I emailed the GF about a crib for our 5 mo. What I want is basically something that will make it so he's not laying inches off the floor, that I can have at my bedside and is somewhat level with me while I'm laying down. He just will not sleep in a pack n play-I've tried.
So GF emailed me back and said they have the regular pack n play, and they have 2 crib options. One full sized crib and a small crib designed for babies under 6 mo.
I haven't heard of resorts offering this smaller crib before..? Anyone use it? Know roughly how big it is and if it will work for what I'm wanting?
Only thing is, I just don't want some big crib taking up tons of space in the room.
What do you think I should do?
(gotta decide, we go in a week!!!!)

 

[BCV23]

BCV23 - great to see you, my friend! Thanks for the info regarding the Christmas music!

Right back at you!

Thank you! This is exactly what I was hoping to hear. Less than 50 days until we are enjoying those lovely tunes at the GF!

You're welcome. I certainly hope it is still true. Will you please let us know when you return?

Finally feeling up to posting again. I am having a tough time with my current chemo protocol, but reading these threads and seeing the wonderful GF pictures puts a smile on my face!

Went through chemo this year, too, and had to cancel a May WDW trip because of it. I'm so sorry you're dealing with it but hope the time really flies. Keep those GF images in your head.

I posted this in family but figured I'd ask you expert GFers-I emailed the GF about a crib for our 5 mo. What I want is basically something that will make it so he's not laying inches off the floor, that I can have at my bedside and is somewhat level with me while I'm laying down. He just will not sleep in a pack n play-I've tried.
So GF emailed me back and said they have the regular pack n play, and they have 2 crib options. One full sized crib and a small crib designed for babies under 6 mo.
I haven't heard of resorts offering this smaller crib before..? Anyone use it? Know roughly how big it is and if it will work for what I'm wanting?
Only thing is, I just don't want some big crib taking up tons of space in the room.
What do you think I should do?
(gotta decide, we go in a week!!!!)

I've never seen the small crib but the "full size" crib isn't really as big as a normal one. I would probably go with it. Or ask for the small one and if it isn't big enough for your little one, just ask to switch.

 

[pas130]

Went through chemo this year, too, and had to cancel a May WDW trip because of it. I'm so sorry you're dealing with it but hope the time really flies. Keep those GF images in your head.



I've never seen the small crib but the "full size" crib isn't really as big as a normal one. I would probably go with it. Or ask for the small one and if it isn't big enough for your little one, just ask to switch.

I am glad you made it through the chemo. My stupid foot incident is so insignificant compared to that. I see all the effects of chemo, but on the "nurse" side. And it takes so much strength to get through. Sorry you had to cancel a trip, it means you have a new one to plan and look forward to

I posted this in family but figured I'd ask you expert GFers-I emailed the GF about a crib for our 5 mo. What I want is basically something that will make it so he's not laying inches off the floor, that I can have at my bedside and is somewhat level with me while I'm laying down. He just will not sleep in a pack n play-I've tried.
So GF emailed me back and said they have the regular pack n play, and they have 2 crib options. One full sized crib and a small crib designed for babies under 6 mo.
I haven't heard of resorts offering this smaller crib before..? Anyone use it? Know roughly how big it is and if it will work for what I'm wanting?
Only thing is, I just don't want some big crib taking up tons of space in the room.
What do you think I should do?
(gotta decide, we go in a week!!!!)

Don't know about the smaller crib, maybe it is more of a bassinet?? I did the full size, which is more of a portable crib. That should be fine for your little one, and there is PLENTY of space in those rooms

pas130 - don't worry! The scooter is less difficult than you think. I was so nervous about it, I almost didn't get one - that, and the bad attitude of some guests. It was much easier to catch on than I thought, and you can turn the speed down to "turtle" until you get familiar. (I left mine on turtle most of the time, lol) And, I'm happy to say, most of the guests were very nice.

KC Mike - thanks for the shot of Gasparilla's outdoor tables!

Turtle...yes that would be great. Especially after F&W
Thank you

KCMike Awesome as always

Finally feeling up to posting again. I am having a tough time with my current chemo protocol, but reading these threads and seeing the wonderful GF pictures puts a smile on my face!

Everyone who is at the GF now, I hope you are having a wonderful time! pas130, sorry about your foot, but I am sure you will have a great time whether you are in a wheelchair or scooter.

Lulu'smom, thinking about you and no matter what, keep that vision of the RPC in the spring in your sights.

Now, time to find a picture to post!

Wonderful TPV pic! Prayers for you (and Lulu's mom). It is funny how we only know of each other on the boards, but I have to say I do think of you both and wish you well. I see patients at their worst from chemo (when they have to come into the ER) But seeing the strength of families, and just human spirit fighting that horrible disease is amazing. And like k&a&c'smom said if there is anything I can do.....even if it is just a prayer....I work in a catholic hospital, and I stop in the chapel before I leave, so if you don't mind...I'll add an extra prayer for you tonight. Glad the pics are helping you through this trying time

I'm going to do a wheelchair. I figure it's easier than a scooter, DH can carry it onto the buses/boats etc. Since he doesn't have to push the double stroller, he can push me

Pas 130 don't worry about your scooter driving skills. The important thing is you are still able to go. Just don't run into the back of anyone's legs and you should be fine. The CMs at the Grand are very helpful to those in scooters. Hope you have a great time.

We aren't at the Grand this time. DD would never hear of it But she has approved YC and CR I specifically chose resorts near the parks we will be at the most. I am very thankful we have this upcoming trip

I will try not to run into anyone, that's my biggest fear

Lots of hugs to everyone today! Happy Sunday

 

[Ali]

I'm wondering if anyone knows when the full Christmas season will come to the GF. When will the Gingerbread house open up this year? I'm trying to decide when to visit but don't have enough info. Thanks

And, for those of you who've stayed in RPC Theme park view, is it worth it if you're objective is to be in the main building and be able to see the Castle?

Thanks

 

[MommyGina]

JungleCruiser - My thoughts and prayers are with you. I have had family members go through what you are going through. Their positive outlook sure helped them. It sounds like you have a positive outlook and I am wishing the best for you and for Lulu's Mom too! Keep the good thoughts of the GF in your mind. I know that when I get down in the dumps about the passing of my mom, I think of happy memories and it sure does help.

 

[MommyGina]

I'm wondering if anyone knows when the full Christmas season will come to the GF. When will the Gingerbread house open up this year? I'm trying to decide when to visit but don't have enough info. Thanks

And, for those of you who've stayed in RPC Theme park view, is it worth it if you're objective is to be in the main building and be able to see the Castle?

Thanks

We stayed in RPC the first time in July with TPV. IMO, it was not worth it. We were not in our room much to see the castle. When we were there, we had one palm tree in the way. I like SL better and that is where we are staying in July. Being in RPC, it felt like we were not really part of the resort. We didn't really leave the Main Building once we got back from the parks. Something was just missing. We didn't meet new people like we did in SL. Probably because it is a much smaller dining area in SL. We didn't walk around the resort like we would have if we took the monorail back to the GF. We would have to walk back outside to SL.

That's just my opinion. No matter where you stay at the GF, you will have a wonderful time.