The New Lizard Lounge

[minniesota]

Angel16 - Thanks for the info on Caymus. I got very thirsty reading all those descriptions! Do they sell nationally? I'm a big red zin fan but I love a good cabernet, too. Funny because several years ago, I only drank white wine and now I drink nothing but reds. Anyway, thanks for the info! I think I will plant the idea of a fall trip in DH's brain - I've only been to Napa Valley once (18 years ago!) and it was in October. Beautiful!

 

[VAgal76]

Me too!

DD13 and I arrive at the GF on Friday, May 20 - can't wait. Our plans include acting like princesses, park time (MK and MGM mostly though I will get my way and spend some time at Epcot, too), wonderful mom and daughter lunches, dinners and bedtime talks, some spa pampering and we must find cheesecake for DD - her very favorite food! Can't wait! We love the GF!

I'm checking in with my mom at BWI on the 19th!!! We leave on the 22nd. I'm going to be at MK on Friday in the morning. If you want to meet up just let me know I'll PM you my cell phone. I plan to be at WCC for lunch, too.

Bonnie

 

[Tess]

Okay all of you -- I'm new here and have a question. After reading through all 62 pages I couldn't get an actual feel for -- If you had to choose one resort CL to stay for Christmas, wanted great decorations room for a 4 1/2 foot tree, a day bed and decent food in the lounge where would you stay. Keep in mind that there will be 2 adults and one 6 year old princess.

By the way -- this is GREAT resource.

You're going to get as many answers as there are concierge levels at WDW! Since you've read all of the thread, you know we are all devotees of one resort or another. Our family is definitely attached to the Polynesian. It would certainly fit all of your requirements and I'd recommend it without hesitation. I can't think of anything more enticing than a tropical paradise for Christmas!

That said, if you want great decorations, I understand GF would be a terrific choice as well! Good luck deciding and I'll bow out and let my fellow LLs take a crack at your question!

 

[minniesota]

Minnie Summer - Tess is so right when she says we all have our favorite CLs. Our is the GF and we have been there at Christmas. The decorations are wonderful and the ambiance is warm and cheery. Above all, it's the perfect place for a princess (though it is also my DH's and DS's very favorite resort, too)! The lounge in the main building (Royal Palm Court or RPC) is the only CL we've experienced and the offerings were fabulous - and plentiful. It's a very relaxing area with the orchestra or grand piano providing entertainment in the afteroons/evenings. And the grounds at Christmas are beuatiful, especially in the evening.

I know TammiMcMann shipped a Christmas tree to the Yacht Club last year and had the planning staff set it up ahead of time so that would be something to consider - wherever you stay. You can read about her trip here:

www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=702016

Hope you don't mind Tammi!

We just love the GF so that wuold of course be my recommendation. Any others?

VAGal76 - Your trip with MIL sounds great. We won't get in until Friday -late afternoon - and our itinerary is looking a little busy. LOL Plus my daughter looks at me in complete horror when I mention the idea of meeting "complete strangers from the internet"! It's nice of you to suggest it though! Have fun with all those lizards...

 

[Goofy's Muse]

Okay all of you -- I'm new here and have a question. After reading through all 62 pages I couldn't get an actual feel for -- If you had to choose one resort CL to stay for Christmas, wanted great decorations room for a 4 1/2 foot tree, a day bed and decent food in the lounge where would you stay. Keep in mind that there will be 2 adults and one 6 year old princess.

By the way -- this is GREAT resource.

Christmas time is awesome at the deluxe resorts, MinnieSummer, lucky you! We stayed GF non-concierge and loved their decorations, but the WL, BWI, YC, BC & Poly were all charming to visit as well -- all very unique, beautiful and festive! The only one we didn't make it to was AKL and I've heard their decorations were beautiful too (and of course, the AKL lounge offerings are very popular with many, though other lounges have tempting fare as well).

If you specifically want a daybed, I'm not sure that option exists at WL & AKL (perhaps the bunk rooms or maybe their deluxe-type rooms would suit you (being a family of 5 we find the WL & AKL limiting in that way).

Then again, if you're looking for stellar pre-planning service, I can't say enough good things about the Epcot IPO staff! I personally think this is a great benefit of concierge, though some others depend on it less than I have.

We made our own decision based on proximity to parks (we were staying late for MVMCP with no car and really wanted the convenience of the monorail and boat transportation). I agree with Tess that all the CLs have their fans... I'd like to have enough time to test them all and draw my own conclusions!

minniesota... LOL... what a great line "... acting like princesses..." Gotta love that one!

 

[VAgal76]

Minniesota - That's ok. Lots of people have that axe murder complex - LOL! I'm sure your mother-daughter trip is filled with excitement. In my case it's a daughter-mother trip, but we have a few things we're getting into. Nonetheless, if you actually happen to see me - don't be shy and give a wave and a hello. Most importantly, have a wonderful trip!

I'm going to HAVE to stay at GF. I almost had DH there for our July trip, but when we were picking resorts he said no to Poly and CR because of the room decor. Then the 14th floor at CR came up. He found out about stocked fridge with a MK view and saw the colors were a little muted and that's all it took. He still wasn't too pleased with the decor of it since he's more AKL/WL type, but that out weighed the perks of staying there. I was told by a great CM at CRO how there was a conference going on & the suites at GF I wanted with MK view were already taken with little chance of them being cancelled. I was a little saddened by that, but if we were going to stay at a MK resort we really wanted a MK view. I'm sure the marina or garden views would've been just as lovely. Oh, one of these days I finally get to do RPC.... Too many resorts, so little time.

 

[Angel16]

Okay Lounge Lizards, your quest if you choose to accept it, is to take copious notes while on vacation and report back to the lounge . Now, go forth and have a great time.

Tammi

We all are really depending on your observations Lounge Lizards. The future of our beloved lounges depend on you and you alone. Have a wonderful time.

Angel

 

[VAgal76]

Just 3 more days (including today) and we'll finally be there. Of course, we'll take notes and report back. Airman Bonnie here reporting for duty. (Salute) "M'am, yes, m'am!" or is it "Sir, yes, Sir!" ? Not to offend the other branches (army, marines, navy), but I was influenced by the Airforce.

 

[Steph H]

You all are the greatest! We don't just whine here in the lounge. . .we take action!!!

I'll be doing CL at the GF in Oct (oh my, the acronyms are taking over!!!), so I'll be eager to hear what everyone has to say. But I will try to keep a positive attitude and remember that concierge level is about a lot more than just food. At least, for me it is!

I've been busy, but I wanted to pop in and give everyone a big LL wave and offer some hugs to those who need it (LovesDumbo especially).

Eagerly looking to hear from those of you who return soon!

 

[Angel16]

Big room wave to all. So many of you are leaving any day now. Before you know it you will be together enjoying our favorite place in the entire world. Sending everyone off with a small bag (it is very powerful stuff, you don't need much) of pixie dust and a nice cold bottle of water. Have a wonderful time

Lovesdumbo You have been in my thoughts and want to send my best wishes and prayers for you and your family.

For those of us who are remaining behind to keep the lounge in tiptop shape I am putting out an afternoon snack. Just finished making Zebra domes and for those watching their diets a big plate of fresh fruit. There is soda, tea and as always the fantastic capphicchino. Have a great afternoon!

Angel

 

[steveanddonna]

Glad there's such a great "cast" watching over the Lounge! Now I can relax and enjoy the Lizard meet. "See" you all when I return.

 

[minniesota]

Hi to all you lizards!

I got the suitcases out this afternoon and told DD she needs to gather the wardrobe she intends to wear! Tomorrow is a busy day and then we are off to the world on Friday morning! Yeah!!! GF - here we come. I'm celebrating my birthday while we are there - and DD's graduation from 8th grade - so I hope we get a little pixie dust sprinkled on us. (Though I haven't mentioned it anywhere, so it really would have to be "magic"!) We'll enjoy ourselves no matter what - we're in Disnyeworld.

If anyone has anything they want me to check on, let me know. I'll report on our trip when we return. Until then, keep the lounge hoppin' and don't drink all the red zin!

 

[Angel16]

Have a wonderful trip Minniesota Enjoy your one-on-one time with your DD. How excited you both must be. Remember your assignment of checking out the lounge and their offerings tough assignment….I know.

Angel16 - Thanks for the info on Caymus. I got very thirsty reading all those descriptions! Do they sell nationally? I'm a big red zin fan but I love a good cabernet, too. Funny because several years ago, I only drank white wine and now I drink nothing but reds. Anyway, thanks for the info! I think I will plant the idea of a fall trip in DH's brain - I've only been to Napa Valley once (18 years ago!) and it was in October. Beautiful!

The Caymus wines can be purchased nationally. However they are hard to find. I did find several bottles in a little wine store in Northern Wisconsin a couple of years back. They were being sold at the winery for $120 a bottle. The wine store was asking $40 a bottle. I took all they had The owner gave me a 10% discount for buying 6 bottle. They are/were wonderful.

I am sending pixie dust and good wishes for a wonderful vacation. And I hope you have a magic filled Happy, Happy, Birthday.


Angel

 

[Goofy's Muse]

Gosh... what a LONG, hectic week! It's been a little bit of and a little bit of , a little more , a whole lot of , and then tonight, chaperoning the last of the school year. Oh yeah... and then there's work ...

Think I'll grab just a teeny piece of minniesota's BD cake. You were sweet to bake, Angel16! Perhaps just one glass of wine, too! Have a happy, minniesota!

 

[#1hockeymom]

busy busy busy! but wanted to run in and say hello to all my friends here!

Debbie

 

[GoofyJoofy]

Can't wait to hear all about the LL meet. Not sure how soon anyone will return.
Hope the weather held out for all the fun events planned for the meet.

Meanwhile for the those of us left behind, I've been enjoying the treats.
New day, so fresh coffee, bagels and muffins. Can't forget that fresh fruit.

Spent the weekend camping with DS, had a great time, but of course very little sleep. Now its back to the grind

Our school does not end until June 22, but between now and then, we have lots of "end of year" events.

Hope everyone has grand plans for Memorial day. All 3 kids (DD-14, DD-12, DS-11) are marching with the school band on Monday.

Have to plan some family fun time and of course BBQ! and

Prayers and PD to all, especially Lovesdumbo

 

[lovesdumbo]

Thanks again for all the kind thoughts and prayers. My mom has been in ICU for 4 weeks now-7 weeks in the hospital. She has good days and bad. She is recovering from the surgery well but she needs to get past this chest congestion thing then she'll face weeks of recovery.

My oldest celebrated her 6th birthday yesterday and she lost her 2nd tooth. She was so excited as she really lost (and we never found) her 1st tooth. Just last week the tooth fairy got a roll of Sacagawea $1 coins. I'm not sure what the tooth fairy brings kids in our town so I figured this was a good way to keep it to $1 and it was really magical for DD to get something she had never seen before.

I've been thinking about my trip a lot lately (nice diversion!). So any thoughts on Illumination cruise? I'm thinking my kids who will be 6 1/2, not quite 5 and not quite 3 will be too young.

Also planning dinner for just DH & I. We will leave kids with our friend-he won't consider Neverland even though I know older ones will love it. I'm not sure how youngest would react since she can't go so this may be just as well. I was thinking of Jiko or Boma or something at Epcot. DH might prefer something on the monorail to be close to the kids. I don't want to have to dress up for V&A.

I also need a tour to send DH on. Last year he did the garden tour at Epcot and loved it and it gave him a much better appreciation for the Disney magic.

GoofyJoofy-did you freeze camping this weekend? I could use a little FL sun and heat!

Hope the lizards are having a blast!

 

[lovesdumbo]

Just wanted to post that when I saw my Mom last night she was having a good day. She wants to go home, wants to eat, wanted to go for a walk and she was actually moving around on the bed. The last several times I've seen her I wasn't sure she knew who I was so this was a very nice change.

Then when I got around 10:30 pm after a long day of work, the hospital visit and a stop at the grocery store for Hoodsies for DD school birthday celebration and I open my door (which opens right into the living room no entry) and see that someone has completely cleaned up-put away all the toys, picked up all the crayons, coloring books, scraps of "artwork", shoes, jackets...all the mess 3 small kids can make. It was my 6 year old. She did an amazing job and even did the family room too. I think was really grateful for a nice birthday.

So my fellow Massachusetts Lizards what do you think of this weather? Will we ever have spring?

 

[#1hockeymom]

Lovesdumbo>> So good to hear from you! I am glad to hear that your mother seems to be doing better. I know how hard it is on you and everyone in the family. Hugs to everyone. What a nice birthday present your DD gave to YOU! Your DD sounds very sweet, like her mother!

Waving to the Goofy's and everyone else!
Debbie

 

[steveanddonna]

So glad your Mom is improving, lovesdumbo. Prayers and PD for continued good news. For a monorail restaurant, we love Narcoossee's - nice atmosphere, though not at all stuffy, great views, excellent fish. I also like Citrico's a lot, but DH is a pickier eater and sometimes has difficulty finding something acceptable on the menu. I'm also a big fan of Artist Point, though it isn't on the monorail. As for tours, we enjoyed the Segway tour last year, but it's really more of a Segway ride, as you don't get lots of backstage info and "secrets" as you do on other tours. Keys to the Kingdom is also good, a nice compromise if you don't want to spend 7 hours on the Backstage Magic tour. My DH really liked hearing about all the business strategies and psychology behind the MK. Since your DH has an interest in Ag, how about the Behind the Seeds tour at the Land pavilion? He'd get to see the greenhouses with their hydroponic salad greens and upside down tomato vines and the other innovative growing techniques they employ.

I have been thrown right back into extra-long work days, not to mention the inevitable post-trip laundry, mail, phone messages, etc., but I will post a trip report by the weekend. In addition to the planned meetings with other LLs I ran into BCV23 again (we were across the hall from each other in October, too) and met Minniesota for drinks with her adorable daughter. It was wonderful to meet these literal strangers/virtual friends and find conversation flowed naturally and easily, thanks to our Lizard Lounge rapport.

For those who asked earlier about WoodysRU, I called her today. She is well, the exhausted mom of a healthy baby girl in addition to her 2 pre-schoolers. She did get to enjoy her planned May WDW trip with her family in spite of her DH breaking his ankle 4 days before departure. I know she appreciates everyone worrying (and caring) about where she's been, and wants you all to know that she is just exceedingly busy and hardly ever on-line anymore.

Now I need to be offline and back in the real world before the to-do list buries me!