VWL Groupies...yes, we love the Lodge!!

[DiznyDi]

Wishing magicalmcwho a very Happy Birthday! Hope you enjoyed your day in celebration with family and friends!

Our very Best Wishes to Audipolo & Icecoldpenguin as you begin your journey as husband and wife!

Jimmy, we'll take you any way we can get you, even if it is from OKW!
Back to the game, is there a T?

Granny, you're a brave soul to do WDW Christmas week. Though I have to admit that I would like to do it sometime. I'd also very much like to have the opportunity to hear Gary Sinise at the Candlelight Processional. I know you will thoroughly enjoy yourself and your much deserved rest.

 

[Pirate Granny]

We saw Gary Sinise...he's great...this year we've made reservations for LeCellier and Whoopie....can't wait. And we are staying at VWL. Hubby has never stayed there, can't wait for him to see the decorations! Waiting for the Christmas Tree exchange to start. I bought the perfect ornamanet for a VWL tree, if we get one. Our tree will go to BCV or OKW as that is the theming of our tree (our home resorts).

 

[Corinne]

Grannyglad to hear you have a wonderful trip planned! Going when the "kids" are older is really fun! We always thought they would want to go less (or not at all) and now we have found not only do they love it, but their significant others love it too! That is the main reason, after 11 years, we added on! We need more points for larger accommodations!

Anyway, I am soooo envious of you! Gary Sinise......

 

[jimmytammy]

Wishing magicalmcwho a very Happy Birthday! Hope you enjoyed your day in celebration with family and friends!

Our very Best Wishes to Audipolo & Icecoldpenguin as you begin your journey as husband and wife!

Jimmy, we'll take you any way we can get you, even if it is from OKW!
Back to the game, is there a T?

Granny, you're a brave soul to do WDW Christmas week. Though I have to admit that I would like to do it sometime. I'd also very much like to have the opportunity to hear Gary Sinise at the Candlelight Processional. I know you will thoroughly enjoy yourself and your much deserved rest.

Yes, T is in the Hangman game!

 

[twokats]

Yes! Happy Wedding to ICP and Audiopolo! Can't wait to see the pictures.

Happy Birthday magicalmcwho!!! Hope it was a happy one!

Sorry I have not been around the last few days, this kitchen remodel is going to be the death of me I think!!! But my cabinets are in, floor is repaired and the countertops have been measured. My flooring has been picked out and purchased just have to get the floor sanded and the stuff installed then my appliances can come back inside!!!

Anyway, ditto for the wedding and birthday wishes from above. Hope they were all fantastic.

Kati is all better and back at work at the camp. Thanks for all the pixie dust she received, she really appreciated it.

Hope y'all have a fantastic 4th of July Wednesday (just in case I get busy again and can't get on!!!)

 

[debbieandroo]

Happy Sunday night, Groupies! It is broiling hot here in the Mid-South but, unlike many of my neighbors up north, at least we still have our power on. Hugs and prayers to those who are still waiting for that to come back on - ugh!

I am so excited!!! A few years ago, a group of us church friends went to WDW for [most of us] the first time. I fell in love and y'all can see the rest of the story. Another church friend was invited but really couldn't afford to go with us.

Fast forwarding...yet another friend and I decided to chip in and buy this friend's park ticket and, with my dvc points, his lodging for a glorious week at WDW next April/May. We kept it a surprise until last night - it was so exciting to finally tell him. And he was thrilled!



Anyway, just wanted to tell the sweet folks on this thread who 'get' the whole WDW love and understand how gratifying it is to do this for a friend who couldn't do it for himself.

 

[Dizny Dad]

. . . . . . . . And we're staying at VWL, so I don't care about park crowds and jammed buses and restaurants. I might not ever leave the resort and consider it a wonderful trip.

Wow - spoken like a true Groupie! I'm with ya . . .

 

[Pirate Granny]

I agree outside of the candlelight procession, I could just visit the various resorts to look at decorations...wondering how A of A will do it up,,,and sit on my balcony and take in the peace before the holidays.

 

[jimmytammy]

Sorry I have not been around the last few days, this kitchen remodel is going to be the death of me I think!!! But my cabinets are in, floor is repaired and the countertops have been measured. My flooring has been picked out and purchased just have to get the floor sanded and the stuff installed then my appliances can come back inside!!!

Anyway, ditto for the wedding and birthday wishes from above. Hope they were all fantastic.

Kati is all better and back at work at the camp. Thanks for all the pixie dust she received, she really appreciated it.

Hope y'all have a fantastic 4th of July Wednesday (just in case I get busy again and can't get on!!!)

We understand, you have a lot going on right now, we will be here when you get back!

 

[jimmytammy]

Happy Sunday night, Groupies! It is broiling hot here in the Mid-South but, unlike many of my neighbors up north, at least we still have our power on. Hugs and prayers to those who are still waiting for that to come back on - ugh!

I am so excited!!! A few years ago, a group of us church friends went to WDW for [most of us] the first time. I fell in love and y'all can see the rest of the story. Another church friend was invited but really couldn't afford to go with us.

Fast forwarding...yet another friend and I decided to chip in and buy this friend's park ticket and, with my dvc points, his lodging for a glorious week at WDW next April/May. We kept it a surprise until last night - it was so exciting to finally tell him. And he was thrilled!



Anyway, just wanted to tell the sweet folks on this thread who 'get' the whole WDW love and understand how gratifying it is to do this for a friend who couldn't do it for himself.

Its a great feeling being able to share DVC with friends and family!

 

[eliza61]

Since it's Africa Hot pretty much around the entire nation, today's trivia is about Animal kingdom.

The first birth at Disney's Animal Kingdom was a Kudu, a large African Antelope.

The first animal to arrive at Disney's Animal Kingdom was "Miles" the giraffe. He moved in on June 12th, 1996.

Kali river Rapids is set in the village of Anandapur, A sanskrit word meaning "the place of all delight".
Pretty appropriate. Maybe the need to rename the entire park that!!

Anyone know the name of the large T-Rex near the entrance of Dinosaur?



So we snaged (1 g or 2?) a reservation for Saratoga Springs for our anniversary week in October. We were hoping to do Italy since it's our 25th but the old guy may still have a pic line in him so we'll stay stateside. And as the mouseworld is our happy place, it's all good.

Anyone stay at SS before. I've read lukewarm reviews of the place but honestly, right now we're pretty much happy with some down time.


Any big plans for the fourth? I'm helping out on a cool assignment, Philly always does a pretty big 4th of July thing, can't blame them, with the liberty Bell, declaration of Independance and Independance hall all here, be kinda hard not to have a huge party. Anyhoo, I'm helping to bake a 14th foot cake in the replica of the American Flag at Betsy Ross's house. this ought to be a hoot!!

 

[twokats]

Since it's Africa Hot pretty much around the entire nation, today's trivia is about Animal kingdom.

The first birth at Disney's Animal Kingdom was a Kudu, a large African Antelope.

The first animal to arrive at Disney's Animal Kingdom was "Miles" the giraffe. He moved in on June 12th, 1996.

Kali river Rapids is set in the village of Anandapur, A sanskrit word meaning "the place of all delight".
Pretty appropriate. Maybe the need to rename the entire park that!!

Anyone know the name of the large T-Rex near the entrance of Dinosaur?



So we snaged (1 g or 2?) a reservation for Saratoga Springs for our anniversary week in October. We were hoping to do Italy since it's our 25th but the old guy may still have a pic line in him so we'll stay stateside. And as the mouseworld is our happy place, it's all good.

Anyone stay at SS before. I've read lukewarm reviews of the place but honestly, right now we're pretty much happy with some down time.


Any big plans for the fourth? I'm helping out on a cool assignment, Philly always does a pretty big 4th of July thing, can't blame them, with the liberty Bell, declaration of Independance and Independance hall all here, be kinda hard not to have a huge party. Anyhoo, I'm helping to bake a 14th foot cake in the replica of the American Flag at Betsy Ross's house. this ought to be a hoot!!

Kati and I have stayed there twice. The first time we were in the Grandstand which does get the bus service first and the second time we were in the Carosel which is the second stop for the bus. The rooms are great the bus service can be an issue, but really both times we managed and had a good time. There is one of the buses that stops at the hospitality house first and then goes to the other areas I just don't remember which one it is.

 

[Corinne]

Since it's Africa Hot pretty much around the entire nation, today's trivia is about Animal kingdom.

Anyone know the name of the large T-Rex near the entrance of Dinosaur?

Would that be Dino Sue?

We stayed at SSR once for a few nights before heading to the BW. Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised. We also stayed in The Grandstand section, which we liked a lot. It is a huge resort, but it was nice.

Your July 4th plan sounds liks so much fun!!!! Please post pics!!!

 

[MarlaSingersLaundry]

Fast forwarding...yet another friend and I decided to chip in and buy this friend's park ticket and, with my dvc points, his lodging for a glorious week at WDW next April/May. We kept it a surprise until last night - it was so exciting to finally tell him. And he was thrilled!



Anyway, just wanted to tell the sweet folks on this thread who 'get' the whole WDW love and understand how gratifying it is to do this for a friend who couldn't do it for himself.

What a wonderful surprise! I am sure this trip will mean so much more to your friend since it was made possible by the love and generosity of others.

 

[DiznyDi]

Eliza, DDad and I love Saratoga Springs! Differently than VWL and for different reasons. We like the open hallways and the proximity of parking. Depending on which area of the resort you request, there are gorgeous golf course views. While many complain that everything is at great distance, that is one of the things we like best; the walks with beautiful landscaping and majestic fountains. We usually request Grandstand section near the pool. Congress Park with a view of Downtown Disney is wonderful, too. This area will put you near the rockers where you can sit and watch the boats and listen to their horns. We've only stayed in the Paddock section once and that was before the new pool. If you're in the Paddock section, there is a lovely walk across a foot bridge to get to the High Rock Springs Pool, Community Hall and Carriage House. How wonderful you'll be able to get away for a quick trip! Enjoy yourselves as you both deserve a little R&R!

 

[stopher1]

Hello friends - long time no visit.

Sorry - and thanks to dear Di for the gentle nudge that I need to come back and say hello!

Life has been very, very, very busy. In the midst of Scouting's zenith right now with all of the summer-time activities. Just got back recently from Summer Camp, where I took 104 youth and 46 full-week adults, plus another 8 partial week adults. We have an amazing Troop. Coordinating it all is very much like bringing in a small army... but I LOVE doing it!

The business continues to grow, even if it is a bit slowly right now. Several new clients looking at cruises and other vacations into 2013 now, so that's good news for the pipeline. The referrals continue to come in as well. The FB page continues to grow in size, having just recently surpassed 300 likes, and the blog is creeping along getting new subscribers. I continue to add new content to my website, as it's grown to over 60 pages of info now. It's getting a bit more difficult to maintain personally. Soon I'm hoping to turn it over to an actual webmaster. I'm in 2 different networking groups, and after many months they are finally starting to pay off... that whole trust thing is important, and now that I'm regular and known and trusted, the group members are beginning to refer folks my way. I also have a couple of big new paid ads that I've placed in publications recently that are starting to generate... both have an 8-10 month lifespan, so hopefully they will reap the desired dividends. And I'm working hard to hopefully be in print in the next 3-5 months, but hopefully less time than that. I'll let you know when that time comes.

We are heading south in just 12 days now. Can't wait to be there once again... even if it will be hot and sticky. (Doing Florida in the summer has NEVER been something we enjoy... but it's the only week in the entire summer when the entire family would be together... so why not be hot there instead of hot here?) We'll be at AKV - Kidani, but certainly will be making our way over to the Lodge once or twice to enjoy it there. No parks this trip - just the pool, the resort, some mini-golf perhaps, boating, Hoop Dee Doo is on the short list, or Cirque du Soleil... we're still debating.

I haven't spent much time on here in the past couple of months - hardly at all honestly. But for those of you on FB, I do keep up and watch what's going on in your posts. I hope the rest of you that aren't on FB are well.

Take care friends. I'll try to pop back in before we leave for Florida...

Oh yes - and Happy Independence Day! ( a tad early).

 

[MiaSRN62]

Hi Christopher !!!
I've been following you on FB If you ever need a referral for your business and you think any of us (me ?!!) would be a help, please don't hesitate to ask. So happy to see your post here today and I can vouch that you are truly are nice guy !!!
I think your vacation in 12 days sounds awesome ! We've done a couple of them over the years and they can actually turn out to be even better than fighting the summer crowds in the heat in the parks. Enjoy !!!!

 

[MiaSRN62]

Its a great feeling being able to share DVC with friends and family!

Agreed !!! We're treating good friends to ours to 2 nights in Kidani after we get off our cruise. We wouldn't think of taking any money for the room---though they offered because they're such good people. So thankful we are blessed to be able to do this.

 

[jimmytammy]

Welcome back Stopher! Sounds like you are really busy, but in a fun kind of way. Good to hear business is doing well.

 

[stopher1]

Hi Christopher !!!
I've been following you on FB If you ever need a referral for your business and you think any of us (me ?!!) would be a help, please don't hesitate to ask. So happy to see your post here today and I can vouch that you are truly are nice guy !!!
I think your vacation in 12 days sounds awesome ! We've done a couple of them over the years and they can actually turn out to be even better than fighting the summer crowds in the heat in the parks. Enjoy !!!!

Thanks Maria! I follow your posts too, and many of them make me smile.
Referrals are such a large part of my type of business. Repeat business is even larger. I into the cycle now where clients have gone on their trips, and now working with a few on repeat trips. Some of them aren't ready to talk next time yet, and two have gone elsewhere, but earning that repeat business is so important. Like so many others, it is a highly competitive business to be in. I have several nice comments posted on my website (Guestimonials) from clients, and it's nice to refer folks there when they have questions. Others have done it on FB, Twitter and LinkedIn for their networks to see, or simply by phone or in conversation. I'm building up a nice following on Pinterest too, and I've gotten inquiries as a result of that network now too. It's nice when a new potential client tells me that they spoke with so and so and I was highly regarded by them in their referral, or that they found me on such and such a site.

So to follow this up and ask - I'm asking. Any new business is always appreciated, and your referrals are highly coveted. I have clients in 13 states now - geographic location really doesn't matter, except I can't work with folks outside the U.S., that's my only limitation.

Ok, time to get to work on some blog posts. Take care. I'll see you on FB Maria... and yes, I'll pop back in here from time to time Groupies! TTFN.