We're back from surprising our kids– a grateful family -with pics and video.

[sherreis]

I last left you as we were getting ready to go to Le Cellier for lunch. Back when we were planning the trip, I asked DH for what restaurants he would like to return to from our previous trip and what restaurants would he like to avoid. On his list of repeats was Le Cellier and Clam Bake Café at the Beach Club (also DS13’s favorite). DH also asked to try BOMA and Biergarten. Our original plan did not have Le Cellier in it but after we changed some of our ADRs around for some reason or another, I was able to schedule an ADR for lunch. DH was happy.

For anyone who’s never been to WDW before, you would never know to expect beautiful gardens and flowers everywhere. I love the landscaping and they have never failed to impress me.

Our ADR was at 11:45 AM and we arrived around 11:40 to check in. I heard the CM tell the person in front of us that they couldn’t get seated and they had no ADRs available for the rest of the day! I still think they should leave some openings for people who don’t know that you need to schedule an ADR for a restaurant 6 months ahead of time.

We waited around 10 minutes before we were called for our table. Our server’s name was Edward and he was very good. He explained the menu and DDP to us and told us that smoothies could be included for a drink. DS13 got very excited and ordered the strawberry smoothie. DS13 doesn’t eat much for lunch because of his ADHD meds so any calories we can get into him at that time of day, we’re happy. It’s one of the reasons that we try not to eat TS meals for lunch.

I didn’t take pics of our lunches – I knew I would need to ease into the taking pics of our foods because DH thinks it is VERY strange to take pictures of the food you’re going to eat. So, I sneak them in when I can.

DH ordered the fillet. DS13 wanted the grilled chicken Caesar salad and knew what he wanted for dessert so I had him order the combo special which also included an appetizer. I had him get that so I could get the cheddar cheese soup. DS8 ordered pizza and got cheddar cheese soup for his appetizer and I ordered the NY Strip for my entrée and asked for the mashed potatoes instead of the risotto. We got our pretzel bread – YUM! The soup is wonderful and DS8 loved his. DS13 said he should have kept it as he really liked it too. DS8 liked his pizza. DS13 didn’t like his chicken Caesar salad and I can’t blame him because the chicken was dry. We were not as happy with our steaks as we were the first time we ate there, especially, DH’s fillet. It was tough and so was my NY strip. The mashed potatoes were very good though. We’re still glad we ate there and we will eat there again some day because our first time was so good. For dessert, I ordered the maple crème brulee which is absolutely delicious. DH ordered the sorbet which was cherry and he really liked that. DS8 had ice cream and DS13 knew before he even walked into the place that he was going to be eating chocolate mousse.

So, we finished our first meal on the DDP for this trip. We like Le Cellier and it’s atmosphere. It’s relatively quiet and had good service. With the DDP it is a good value. DH says he doesn’t need to eat there again but I would. It won’t be on our must-repeat list for our next trip. When we do eat there again, it will be for dinner, so DS13 can enjoy the meal more than he did. I figure there are so many restaurants that we have yet to try at WS, that we’ll try something new next time. We still left there content and felt ready for a nap.

We left WS and back to FW to finish up a few more things before heading back to CSR.

 

[mickeysmyboy]

Great update!! The chocolate Mousse is adorable!!! Is it actually chocolate mousse?!

 

[heaven2dc]

Great surprise! I loved the looks on your boys' faces in the video. I hope you have a magical vacation!

 

[cdhale]

Thank you. We couldn't have ordered better weather for Friday night. I love when I don't have to layer them under their costumes. Nice to see a Baltimore person. I'm sitting here watching the Ravens game now. I grew up right outside Baltimore and live in Carroll County now.

I was raised in Howard County... now I'm raising my kids in Howard County.

I was not impressed with the Ravens in the middle of that game, but they pulled it off in the end!

 

[DisneyTiger]

Yum, you made my mouth water. I could eat a bowl of that cheese soup right now! And I would kill for a filet even though your DH's was a bit tough! That moose is pecious. I didn't know about that. We'll have to check it out on our next trip!

I know what you mean about taking pics of the food. I had some pictures of our trip left on my camera and some of them were of food. A friend was looking at the pics and was very confused when she came across the food pics. I wanted to say so badly, "it's a DIS thing" but I resisted. Hey, maybe I need to make a bumper sticker that says that

 

[vdarrell]

I don't know what my DH will say when I start taking pictures of our food.
But he should know that it is a Dis thing because I have showed him enough pictures of food for him to see what he will be ordering.
Le Cellier was one of the ADR's we were going to do but decided on another place. Maybe we will get lucky and be able to do a walk up for lunch when we go.

Your son look as if he was on drinking his smoothie and the moose dessert looked awesome.
The soup sounds like something I'd enjoy. Sorry it wasn't up to standards this time maybe next time.

Have your back spasms let up?

 

[sherreis]

Great update!! The chocolate Mousse is adorable!!! Is it actually chocolate mousse?!

Yes, it is actually chocolate mousse. It's good - but I'll stick with the maple creme brulee - YUM!

Great surprise! I loved the looks on your boys' faces in the video. I hope you have a magical vacation!

Thank you. I keep picturing their responses.

I was raised in Howard County... now I'm raising my kids in Howard County.

I was not impressed with the Ravens in the middle of that game, but they pulled it off in the end!

We lived in Columbia for 14 yrs before moving out here. I miss the convenience of Columbia.

Yum, you made my mouth water. I could eat a bowl of that cheese soup right now! And I would kill for a filet even though your DH's was a bit tough! That moose is pecious. I didn't know about that. We'll have to check it out on our next trip!

I know what you mean about taking pics of the food. I had some pictures of our trip left on my camera and some of them were of food. A friend was looking at the pics and was very confused when she came across the food pics. I wanted to say so badly, "it's a DIS thing" but I resisted. Hey, maybe I need to make a bumper sticker that says that

Is there something wrong with taking pics of the food we eat? I went to a DISmeet a few days before we left for vacation and even there someone took pics of the food. I like taking pics of everything because this is how I remember what we did. Isn't their cheddar cheese soup the best? I haven't tried making it yet and one of these days I will try it since 3 of us liked it so much. DH didn't taste it. Tonight, I made some potato leek soup similar to that at BOMA and it was so good. DS8 was so excited.

I don't know what my DH will say when I start taking pictures of our food.
But he should know that it is a Dis thing because I have showed him enough pictures of food for him to see what he will be ordering.
Le Cellier was one of the ADR's we were going to do but decided on another place. Maybe we will get lucky and be able to do a walk up for lunch when we go.

Your son look as if he was on drinking his smoothie and the moose dessert looked awesome.
The soup sounds like something I'd enjoy. Sorry it wasn't up to standards this time maybe next time.

Have your back spasms let up?

DH understands the pics of food thing too since I've shown him pics of food here when getting ready for a trip. DS13 loves smoothies and loves when we let him order a non-alcoholic daiquiri when we go out, as long as it is strawberry. Same thing with strawberry milkshakes. About the cheddar cheese soup, you can always ask for a sample to see if it is something you would want to try. That's what DS8 did - he asked for a sample first and then got it as his appetizer (kids' meals come with appetizers and dessert!).

Thanks for asking about my back - it was better today, which surprises me since I was sitting all day at my desk on the computer. Was doing all of my end-of-month statistics.

 

[sherreis]

Now that our tummies were full and the day was catching up with us, back out to FW to finish up before taking a break for a few hours back at CSR.
Here’s a pretty pic of the Epcot ball.

Off to one of my favorite rides – Soarin’. DH rode the ECV into the building and we finally found the elevator. Earlier in the morning, I had done the stairs with the crowds (remember, with DS8 yelling down “MOMMY!”) We had our FPs and walked all the way with no wait. We got placed in the first row! My favorite! Soarin’ is awesome and I just love it. I was afraid of it on our last trip because it involved motion and heights – 2 things I don’t cope with. I think the ride needs some updating because there were black marks on the screens.

One more stop before we leave. I wanted to ride Spaceship Earth since it had been refurb’d since our last trip. It only had a 5-10 minute wait in standby but DH was leary to risk it at this point to stand in line. The ECV doesn’t fit in the queue for SE so we had to go in the side entrance. Our 5-10 minute standby became quite long because there were a lot of other disabled people ahead of us. If I would’ve known it would take so long we would have left without doing it. I felt that SE would be a good “educational” attraction for the boys since they were missing school for the trip.

When you come back down you have these choices on the computer screen about your future – where you would want to live, if you would be organic, etc. DS8 was in the same car as me so he made the choices.

Back to the bus stop for CSR. One of the reasons I like staying there is that their bus stops are very convenient at the parks. I need to remember that for when we’re picking a resort for our next stay.

 

[Minnie&Nana]

It's been so busy here, have just had a chance to catch up on your terrific TR. Loving it still.

The Halloween photos are fantastic! The boys look incredible...and your grand daughter - well...absolutely precious!

The gardens throughout Disney are one of the things I most enjoy - it adds to the enchanment.

Anymore photos of CSR by chance? You, Kathy and Buzz have me hooked on the resort we thought we'd never try.

 

[sherreis]

It's been so busy here, have just had a chance to catch up on your terrific TR. Loving it still.

The Halloween photos are fantastic! The boys look incredible...and your grand daughter - well...absolutely precious!

The gardens throughout Disney are one of the things I most enjoy - it adds to the enchanment.

Anymore photos of CSR by chance? You, Kathy and Buzz have me hooked on the resort we thought we'd never try.

You'll be very happy with your selection. It's just so peaceful there. A great place to get away from the hussle and bussle of the parks.

I'll be having some pics "here and there" of the resort throughout the TR. Didn't take as many as I thought I did.

 

[Roxychica7]

Last year Dbf and I didn't get on Soarin' because I have a problem with heights and vertigo. I get on everything in WDW except TOT (don't like to be "surprised" with drops). I'm afraid that Soarin will have the simulantion of being on a ferris wheel with it rocking to and fro and I'll want down and not be able to since we're off the ground. I know that Dbf really really wants to get on it this year though, what was your experience with it? Not too bad? I wanna try and conquer the fear this year

 

[sherreis]

Last year Dbf and I didn't get on Soarin' because I have a problem with heights and vertigo. I get on everything in WDW except TOT (don't like to be "surprised" with drops). I'm afraid that Soarin will have the simulantion of being on a ferris wheel with it rocking to and fro and I'll want down and not be able to since we're off the ground. I know that Dbf really really wants to get on it this year though, what was your experience with it? Not too bad? I wanna try and conquer the fear this year

I have a problem the first few seconds as you go up. After that, I don't have any problems at all. Do you do Star Tours?

 

[Roxychica7]

I have a problem the first few seconds as you go up. After that, I don't have any problems at all. Do you do Star Tours?

I used to when I was younger, but last year I tried to get on it from not getting on it in a few years, I think I got overwhelmed with being clausterphobic since you're so closed in. As soon as they got ready to shut the doors, I got off. I think Soarin may be different though since you're out in the open. I'm just worried about the swaying back and forth like you're going into the picture.

 

[Minnie&Nana]

Last year Dbf and I didn't get on Soarin' because I have a problem with heights and vertigo. I get on everything in WDW except TOT (don't like to be "surprised" with drops). I'm afraid that Soarin will have the simulantion of being on a ferris wheel with it rocking to and fro and I'll want down and not be able to since we're off the ground. I know that Dbf really really wants to get on it this year though, what was your experience with it? Not too bad? I wanna try and conquer the fear this year

I have the exact same problem. Do not do Ferris Wheels (fear of heights as well as the rest).

I do Soarin', first time mostly with my eyes closed, but now keep my eyes closed until we are up (only do the back row and never alone), then I can open eyes at times, but must be careful b/c some parts did make me slightly nauseous. It absolutely does not feel like a Ferris Wheel for sure.

When TOT first opened, I thought it was virtual reality (TV ads looked that way, everyone standing. ), so I went on - was sick for 3 days. I do have to stay away from all the thrill rides and no Dumbo etc.

I think you could try it - just keep your eyes closed until you're all the way up, then the first time, peek and have your DBF let you know what's happening - that helped me so much. Then next times you can look more and more.

Sorry, to hijack your thread, Sherri!

Back to this exciting TR!

 

[mickeysmyboy]

Great update Sherri! Your not the only person I've heard say that Soarin needs updating!! It wasn't bad in March, I'll be interested to see in January!

 

[sherreis]

I used to when I was younger, but last year I tried to get on it from not getting on it in a few years, I think I got overwhelmed with being clausterphobic since you're so closed in. As soon as they got ready to shut the doors, I got off. I think Soarin may be different though since you're out in the open. I'm just worried about the swaying back and forth like you're going into the picture.

If you decide to do it ask to not be in the first row.

I have the exact same problem. Do not do Ferris Wheels (fear of heights as well as the rest).

I do Soarin', first time mostly with my eyes closed, but now keep my eyes closed until we are up (only do the back row and never alone), then I can open eyes at times, but must be careful b/c some parts did make me slightly nauseous. It absolutely does not feel like a Ferris Wheel for sure.

When TOT first opened, I thought it was virtual reality (TV ads looked that way, everyone standing. ), so I went on - was sick for 3 days. I do have to stay away from all the thrill rides and no Dumbo etc.

I think you could try it - just keep your eyes closed until you're all the way up, then the first time, peek and have your DBF let you know what's happening - that helped me so much. Then next times you can look more and more.

Sorry, to hijack your thread, Sherri!

Back to this exciting TR!

That wasn't hijacking. Those are some good ideas. I don't do TOT, coasters, tea cups. I can do Dumbo type things if slow. I fully understand. I haven't done Kali yet and think I'll try next trip depending on the time of year. Time will tell.

Great update Sherri! Your not the only person I've heard say that Soarin needs updating!! It wasn't bad in March, I'll be interested to see in January!

I wish they would change it to across the country instead of California but keep the scent of the pine trees and the orange grove. Could you imagine if they put in places like New York City and the statue of Liberty, or the Washington Monument in DC. So many possibilities.

 

[Minnie&Nana]

I wish they would change it to across the country instead of California but keep the scent of the pine trees and the orange grove. Could you imagine if they put in places like New York City and the statue of Liberty, or the Washington Monument in DC. So many possibilities.

OHMYGOSH!! That would an outstanding change! Afterall, that far majority of WDW guests do not live in CA and the original was for Disneyland guests, so it had more meaning for them. It is terrific, but if given the chance, I'd vote for the changes.

 

[Roxychica7]

I have the exact same problem. Do not do Ferris Wheels (fear of heights as well as the rest).

I do Soarin', first time mostly with my eyes closed, but now keep my eyes closed until we are up (only do the back row and never alone), then I can open eyes at times, but must be careful b/c some parts did make me slightly nauseous. It absolutely does not feel like a Ferris Wheel for sure.

When TOT first opened, I thought it was virtual reality (TV ads looked that way, everyone standing. ), so I went on - was sick for 3 days. I do have to stay away from all the thrill rides and no Dumbo etc.

I think you could try it - just keep your eyes closed until you're all the way up, then the first time, peek and have your DBF let you know what's happening - that helped me so much. Then next times you can look more and more.

Sorry, to hijack your thread, Sherri!

Back to this exciting TR!

Thank you so much for the advice! I guess I'll make the decision when I get there, otherwise I'll syke myself up too much and not wanna do it. But thank you for letting her "hijack" your thread for a minute!
Loving the report though, looking forward to the next update!

 

[sherreis]

I’m keeping it short today. I have dinner cooking in the pressure cooker and DH and I are sitting watching CNN. I think it’ll be a long night.

Forgot to report that the night we arrived, I realized I had forgot to pack the battery charger and the extra battery for the new camera. I was quite upset and DH was quite upset with me for not packing.

We left Epcot and went to the bus for CSR. Didn’t have to wait long. One of the things I love about CSR is that their bus stops are in great locations at the parks. It’s better for DH for when he doesn’t have his ECV. On the bus the boys kept asking if they could go swimming. I was so tired and wanted to take a nap. We got back to our room and I started on a mission of finding a store for DH to go get a new battery charger for the camera battery. The camera doesn’t use regular batteries. DH went to the concierge to ask for some help and spoke with a cab driver who suggested the Florida Mall and the cab would cost $80! I don’t think so. We’ll just use the old camera for that but I really wanted to use the new camera. Looking thru the yellow pages in an area you don’t know is not very helpful. I could only go by certain street names. Wrote down some numbers and we called them and finally found a store that wasn’t too far. DH took a cab and it cost $30 . Now, we have an extra charger. Whew!

The boys kept asking to go to the Dig Site but I was so tired and wanted to lay down for a short time. Finally, I told them they could go to the quiet pool which was right outside of our room (well, almost outside – we were on the 2nd floor).

After our break, we were going back to Epcot for dinner and Illuminations.

 

[mickeysmyboy]

I wish they would change it to across the country instead of California but keep the scent of the pine trees and the orange grove. Could you imagine if they put in places like New York City and the statue of Liberty, or the Washington Monument in DC. So many possibilities.

That's exactly what DH says!! I think that would be great!