You light ‘em, they fight ‘em! A GCV/Disneyland Resort December 2014 PTR- we're out!

[eandesmom]

I can't even imagine 28, nor do I want to. I'm somewhat dreading Seattle for a week. I did find a full-length rain coat cleaning out the old house yesterday. New with tags! I got it at the Travelsmith outlet in Palo Alto, we visited there between 5-10 years ago!

Sunday would be better probably, but either day is fine. You can also pick up the air mattress. We have nothing Sunday and Monday all I have is the chiropractor.

I think you should skip the tournament too. He's a big boy now and can do it on his own. Especially with a friend and their dad.

We had a bit of a cold snap last week which is beautiful, but cold. It does look like we are moving back into 50's for the high and a little soggy towards weeks end. Too early to say for turkey day though.

A rain coat is good, so is layers. You may be chilled from the difference in humidity as much as temperature change.

Right now I think Friday still looks wide open and then around lunch on Saturday or early on Sat (Evan has trombone lessons kind of in the middle of the day) and then Jeff and I have a date night that night. Sunday probably has some openings as well but I'm not sure when you head back.

 

[rentayenta]

The alpacas were beyond cool, it was freezing out but it was fun to go. And I got some Christmas shopping done which was even better.

Oh fun! Love Christmas shopping. Any food deals?

Glad it was fun to see the alpacas. ​

We're still short staffed and it always seems like I'm the one left holding the short stick. Next year I'm leaving, I'm hoping to last until after October but not sure if my sanity will allow it. I don't have to work on Thanksgiving but not sure about what will happen with Christmas and New Years. The unit is closed but we have to shift everybody which is even more stressful than actually working the holiday. Things could be worse but I'm still stressed. Still losing pounds so that helps.

i'm sorry you're still short staffed. Where will you go next year? It sounded so promising and I'm sorry it hasn't worked out. Glad you're off Thanksgiving. Hope you don't have to work Christmas.

Woot woot, still losing! Way to go friend! That's saying a lot especially during stressful times.​

Whatever happens with Vegas I know Josh will understand. And you not driving all that way alone will be good. Cynthia said some wise words.

Its just hard sometimes.​

Love it! Followed your big trip to THV/AKV last year. Glad to have found this one

This summer we are doing similar. Have 2 Bdrm AKV Kidani to take our best friends to WDW for a week in June. We are so excited to share the world with them.

We also live in the land of Borrow. Our next DVC trip will be summer 2017 to DL. I'll have those frantic mornings to try to get GCV as well. I'll start with the 1st day of break and just keep trying til we book. Since this might be a once in a lifer for us to take the family to Cali, we want to make the most and do more than DL so it'll be interesting.

Looking forward to more updates and your trip itself! So close!

Hi and Nice to have you.

Sharing our DVC world is just so much fun! It totally changed the way we tour disney. The resort now is such a critical factor. It adds so much to the vacation.

AKV Kidani is just amazing! Only great things to say. That third bathroom is heaven.​

Well, you and I both know he had to go to AZ on his own, that's how those camps work! It is not a Joshua issue, it is totally mom guilt. Of course he's your buddy and he wants you there but he will also be fine without you being there too.

I would argue that not going is a better mom decision. Between the insantiy at your work, extra hours there, and a trip 6 days later, you (ok, I would be) will be a lot less fun, prepared and relaxed leading up to the trip and maybe even the first day or so on it if you don't have that time to prepare. You can only do so much, should only try that much. Beyond letting him have that time on his own, which is good for him, you need to put you first sometimes. That isn't selfish, it's better for everyone.

You're right right right. We need a therapist/social worker, you interested? I hadn't even thought about needing to prepare for the trip. LOL! But you're right, there'll be lots to do.​

 

[rentayenta]

I had a little time earlier and put together an updated itinerary. It's not in stone but pretty close.

Saturday Dec 6: leave SLC, drive through to So Cal, still may stay at my friends; this isn't totally confirmed yet. If not, it's the Waterfront Hilton.

Sunday Dec 7: Beach! Maybe A&F's but most likely Friday.

Monday Dec 8: Beach! Or maybe Knott's Berry Farm. Knott's is having an amazing promo for law enforcement and fire personnel. The employee plus one get in free and everyone after is $30 each. The kids haven't been to Knott's and I've read great things about it. We'll see.....it'll be a little dependent on the weather but I'm doing a little Knott's research just in case.

Tuesday Dec 9: check into the GCV. Disneyland
Park hours: Disneyland 9a-10p with EMH/MM 8a-9a and DCA 9a-8p
P.S. Cafe Orleans for a late lunch.

Wednesday Dec 10: DCA
Park hours: Disneyland 9a-10p and DCA 9a-8p with EMH/MM 8a-9a
World of Color!
P.S. Naples in DTD for a late lunch

Thursday Dec 11: Disneyland and DCA This is the day we're spending with Alison.
Park hours: Disneyland 9a-11p with EMH/MM 8a-9a and DCA 9a-8p
Fireworks!
No P.S. but I think we're planning on Plaza Inn for lunch.

Friday Dec 12: break
Resort and DTD day and visit my dad, A&F's.
P.S. Storytellers for dinner

Saturday Dec 13: DCA
Park hours: Disneyland 8a-midnight with EMH/MM 7a-8a and DCA 8a-11p
P.S. Carnation Cafe

Sunday Dec 14: Disneyland
Park hours: Disneyland 8a-midnight and DCA 8a-11p. No EMH/MM.
Fantasmic!
P.S. Not really a PS but I booked the new Fantasmic! Grab and Go meal with FP! Lots of info floating around but I'll be happy to elaborate if you'd like.

Of course the planned WoC, fireworks, and F! are providing there is no rain/wind in So Cal and no cancelations.

Monday Dec 15: drive home, straight through, Utah bound.

Park hoppers: we've decided against them. We'll I didn't but the boys and Chloe did. Joshua did the math, again, and decided we spend about 90 minutes park hopping between deciding to hop, hopping, getting into the other park, and getting on the next ride. He's so funny! They did promise me that by not hopping they'll let me take character photos. I'm going to whold them to that! Also it will give us time to see Aladdin and Jingle Jangle Jamboree area which I missed the last trip.

Groceries: still undecided! DH likes the Von's idea, kind of. He's like me and likes to choose his own stuff but also doesn't want to spend an afternoon shopping but also knows our friends will want/need stuff and they won't have a car........still undecided. I do know we'll be following Alison's lead and bringing some meat with us. We went in with some friends on a grain fed cow and it'll be ready right before our trip. We currently have 1/2 an elk in our freezer, some lamb, and we need to make room for the cow. We're such ethical carnivores.







19 days!!!


To candy cane or not to candy cane, that is the question:

​

 

[franandaj]

We had a bit of a cold snap last week which is beautiful, but cold. It does look like we are moving back into 50's for the high and a little soggy towards weeks end. Too early to say for turkey day though.

A rain coat is good, so is layers. You may be chilled from the difference in humidity as much as temperature change.

Right now I think Friday still looks wide open and then around lunch on Saturday or early on Sat (Evan has trombone lessons kind of in the middle of the day) and then Jeff and I have a date night that night. Sunday probably has some openings as well but I'm not sure when you head back.

It looks like rain and low 40s when we get there. I'm looking forward to wearing shirts I haven't been able to use in So Cal for the last few years. Friday we have a 4PM with relatives at my sister's house, but nothing before that. Saturday we have a Prime Rib at my sister's house, but we will have delivered that on Thursday.

Sunday is the day we are planning to go to Pike Place Market. Any recommendations on a restaurant down there. I'm thinking kind of late"ish" lunch. Dinner at my sister's is leftovers so we do what we want this day and still "find dinner" if we need to. We head back Monday. I don't remember what time.

I had a little time earlier and put together an updated itinerary. It's not in stone but pretty close.

Sunday Dec 7: Beach! Maybe A&F's but most likely Friday.

Friday Dec 12: break
Resort and DTD day and visit my dad, A&F's.
P.S. Storytellers for dinner

​

For me, the Sunday looks a lot better, I have a couple different appointments that day, so we would be kind of juggling times, we're wide open on Sunday. Plus you could pick up the air mattress and someone could not have to sleep on the floor. If Friday is the only day you can make it, we can make it work, but I'll have to give you the times we will be out for Dr. appts and other stuff. It would have to be mid morning to noonish arrival because my appointments are at 9AM and then I think 3PM. That pretty much means my availability is 11:00-2:30, and then after 4:00. Depending on how the tests that Fran is going through right now, she might have appointments that day, but we're not sure until the Cat Scan she has Friday comes through.

 

[rentayenta]

It looks like rain and low 40s when we get there. I'm looking forward to wearing shirts I haven't been able to use in So Cal for the last few years. Friday we have a 4PM with relatives at my sister's house, but nothing before that. Saturday we have a Prime Rib at my sister's house, but we will have delivered that on Thursday.

Sunday is the day we are planning to go to Pike Place Market. Any recommendations on a restaurant down there. I'm thinking kind of late"ish" lunch. Dinner at my sister's is leftovers so we do what we want this day and still "find dinner" if we need to. We head back Monday. I don't remember what time.

I know this isn't for me but it sounds like you've got a wonderfully delicious trip planned! Hope the temps are mild for you.​

For me, the Sunday looks a lot better, I have a couple different appointments that day, so we would be kind of juggling times, we're wide open on Sunday. Plus you could pick up the air mattress and someone could not have to sleep on the floor. If Friday is the only day you can make it, we can make it work, but I'll have to give you the times we will be out for Dr. appts and other stuff. It would have to be mid morning to noonish arrival because my appointments are at 9AM and then I think 3PM. Depending on how the tests that Fran is going through right now, she might have appointments that day, but we're not sure until the Cat Scan she has Friday comes through.

Ok cool. I'm sorry you've got so many doctor appts. Hope it's just all check up sort of stuff. Cat scan though?


Ok! I definitely don't want to add more to a super busy day.




​

 

[franandaj]

I know this isn't for me but it sounds like you've got a wonderfully delicious trip planned! Hope the temps are mild for you.


Ok cool. I'm sorry you've got so many doctor appts. Hope it's just all check up sort of stuff. Cat scan though?


Ok! I definitely don't want to add more to a super busy day.
​

Yeah, I finally talked to my sister tonight, she didn't want us to have to worry about dinners and stuff because it was our "vacation". Um, sorry sis, but vacation is vacation, seeing family is seeing family. I don't mean to burst your bubble since you don't vacation, but there really is a difference. Not that they can't be enjoyable...

We worked out the holidays and yes, we will be throwing meat in our suitcase yet again!

Well we don't know, her liver readings were up when we got back from the trip. Could be a reaction to the drugs, I'm hoping it's just eating on the Wonder and it goes back to normal once she is home. We were eating pretty rich. She has a CAT scan on Friday but we won't be able to do much before we go away on Tuesday.

I am at the park with Corinna Monday and then we fly Tuesday, the next few days are crazy. Then I come back and have a week and meet up with you and your crew! It's a whirlwind!

 

[PrincessInOz]

Nice plans. Looks like you have quite a bit planned out.

 

[eandesmom]

You're right right right. We need a therapist/social worker, you interested? I hadn't even thought about needing to prepare for the trip. LOL! But you're right, there'll be lots to do.​

LOL! I'm fabulous with other peoples issues, helping my own family see things...not so much. There was a brief period I considered going back to school but the reality is...I'm too blunt to be any good.

There is always SO much more to do that you think. At least for me there is, in those last few days.

I had a little time earlier and put together an updated itinerary. It's not in stone but pretty close.

Saturday Dec 6: leave SLC, drive through to So Cal, still may stay at my friends; this isn't totally confirmed yet. If not, it's the Waterfront Hilton.

Sunday Dec 7: Beach! Maybe A&F's but most likely Friday.

Monday Dec 8: Beach! Or maybe Knott's Berry Farm. Knott's is having an amazing promo for law enforcement and fire personnel. The employee plus one get in free and everyone after is $30 each. The kids haven't been to Knott's and I've read great things about it. We'll see.....it'll be a little dependent on the weather but I'm doing a little Knott's research just in case.

Tuesday Dec 9: check into the GCV. Disneyland
Park hours: Disneyland 9a-10p with EMH/MM 8a-9a and DCA 9a-8p
P.S. Cafe Orleans for a late lunch.

Wednesday Dec 10: DCA
Park hours: Disneyland 9a-10p and DCA 9a-8p with EMH/MM 8a-9a
World of Color!
P.S. Naples in DTD for a late lunch

Thursday Dec 11: Disneyland and DCA This is the day we're spending with Alison.
Park hours: Disneyland 9a-11p with EMH/MM 8a-9a and DCA 9a-8p
Fireworks!
No P.S. but I think we're planning on Plaza Inn for lunch.

Friday Dec 12: break
Resort and DTD day and visit my dad, A&F's.
P.S. Storytellers for dinner

Saturday Dec 13: DCA
Park hours: Disneyland 8a-midnight with EMH/MM 7a-8a and DCA 8a-11p
P.S. Carnation Cafe

Sunday Dec 14: Disneyland
Park hours: Disneyland 8a-midnight and DCA 8a-11p. No EMH/MM.
Fantasmic!
P.S. Not really a PS but I booked the new Fantasmic! Grab and Go meal with FP! Lots of info floating around but I'll be happy to elaborate if you'd like.

Of course the planned WoC, fireworks, and F! are providing there is no rain/wind in So Cal and no cancelations.

Monday Dec 15: drive home, straight through, Utah bound.

Park hoppers: we've decided against them. We'll I didn't but the boys and Chloe did. Joshua did the math, again, and decided we spend about 90 minutes park hopping between deciding to hop, hopping, getting into the other park, and getting on the next ride. He's so funny! They did promise me that by not hopping they'll let me take character photos. I'm going to whold them to that! Also it will give us time to see Aladdin and Jingle Jangle Jamboree area which I missed the last trip.

Groceries: still undecided! DH likes the Von's idea, kind of. He's like me and likes to choose his own stuff but also doesn't want to spend an afternoon shopping but also knows our friends will want/need stuff and they won't have a car........still undecided. I do know we'll be following Alison's lead and bringing some meat with us. We went in with some friends on a grain fed cow and it'll be ready right before our trip. We currently have 1/2 an elk in our freezer, some lamb, and we need to make room for the cow. We're such ethical carnivores.

To candy cane or not to candy cane, that is the question:

​

to candy cane, of course!

PS? Planned sit down???? I've never heard that term. I would definitely do knotts for that price, even if you only do a half day there it's a great deal. We had a blast when we went and with low crowds were able to see all we wanted and be done relatively quickly.

It looks like rain and low 40s when we get there. I'm looking forward to wearing shirts I haven't been able to use in So Cal for the last few years. Friday we have a 4PM with relatives at my sister's house, but nothing before that. Saturday we have a Prime Rib at my sister's house, but we will have delivered that on Thursday.

Friday lunch ish may work well. Earlier too, depending on how later we are up the night before but lunch ish is safe. We may or may not head downtown Friday night but we don't typically leave until 3 or 4 anyway, lighting isn't until 6 I think. I actually need to check. Saturday is an option, just have to work around 11am trombone lessons

Sunday is the day we are planning to go to Pike Place Market. Any recommendations on a restaurant down there. I'm thinking kind of late"ish" lunch. Dinner at my sister's is leftovers so we do what we want this day and still "find dinner" if we need to. We head back Monday. I don't remember what time.

So many good options at the market! It is very likely Jeff and I will be in that area though breakfast, we are currently scheduled for a night away downtown Sat night and then will have breakfast in that area in the morning.

A few of my favorites are:

The Pink Door Italian, hidden in post allley, yummy and a great hideway
Kells Irish Pub
Etta's Notable NW chef, NW food with a slight southern influence.
Cafe Campagne French Brasserie, very yummy.
Steelhead Diner. Very popular lunch spot (dinner too I am sure but I've not been). NW, diner, market inspired seasonal stuff
Alibi Room. Fun Bar inside the market, casual, pizza apps and salads
Pike Place Brewing. Brewpup inside the market. Good food and beer, it is a pretty huge sensory overload kind of place but cool in a kitschy kind of way, just depends on what mood you are in.

I adore Matt's in the market but they are closed on Sundays.

These are all in the market. There are others but these are some of my favorites. We will likely be having brunch at either Etta's or Cafe Campagne that morning unless I find something new and exciting to try (haven't looked yet lol). There is also an amazing suhi place a couple of blocks away (maybe 2?) Japonessa.

For me, the Sunday looks a lot better, I have a couple different appointments that day, so we would be kind of juggling times, we're wide open on Sunday. Plus you could pick up the air mattress and someone could not have to sleep on the floor. If Friday is the only day you can make it, we can make it work, but I'll have to give you the times we will be out for Dr. appts and other stuff. It would have to be mid morning to noonish arrival because my appointments are at 9AM and then I think 3PM. That pretty much means my availability is 11:00-2:30, and then after 4:00. Depending on how the tests that Fran is going through right now, she might have appointments that day, but we're not sure until the Cat Scan she has Friday comes through.

BOO on the tests and liver levels. Praying for good results on Friday and that it was just a little over indulgence on a great vacation!

 

[jedijill]

Jenny--of course you need a candy cane! Looks like you have a fun week planned! I'm super jealous!

Alison--Hope Fran's tests come back that everything is fine and it was just a blip due to the vacation eating! I'm with you on visiting family NOT being vacation. They are 2 distinctly different trips.

Cynthia--I'm making note of all those places you recommend for a future trip to Seattle. I really need to make it up there some of these days.


Jill in CO

 

[franandaj]

Thanks for the restaurant recommendations Cynthia. I'll pencil in lunch Friday. Where do you live? We'll be at the Hampton in Everett.

Her blood test revealed no Hepatitis and the Ultrasound didnt reveal anything, so thats why the Cat Scan.

Also you shoukd get the candy cane if you can, but eat this one. You have one to save already!

 

[rentayenta]

Yeah, I finally talked to my sister tonight, she didn't want us to have to worry about dinners and stuff because it was our "vacation". Um, sorry sis, but vacation is vacation, seeing family is seeing family. I don't mean to burst your bubble since you don't vacation, but there really is a difference. Not that they can't be enjoyable...

We worked out the holidays and yes, we will be throwing meat in our suitcase yet again!

In true you form, we'll be traveling with meat this trip! Michael was sort of sheepish and suggested we take some of our cow with us. I told him that's a great idea and you guys do it all the time. ​

Well we don't know, her liver readings were up when we got back from the trip. Could be a reaction to the drugs, I'm hoping it's just eating on the Wonder and it goes back to normal once she is home. We were eating pretty rich. She has a CAT scan on Friday but we won't be able to do much before we go away on Tuesday.

Could be the booze too. Hoping it's all just from vacation. Sending healthy vibes.​

I am at the park with Corinna Monday and then we fly Tuesday, the next few days are crazy. Then I come back and have a week and meet up with you and your crew! It's a whirlwind!

You're a popular gal. I forgot Corinna is coming in too. How fun!​

Nice plans. Looks like you have quite a bit planned out.

Lots, probably too much. We never do everything we have planned and I'm guessing we'll cancel 1/2 of the PS. I think it's going to be crowded so I made them just in case.​

LOL! I'm fabulous with other peoples issues, helping my own family see things...not so much. There was a brief period I considered going back to school but the reality is...I'm too blunt to be any good.

Likewise. I think I am actually an effective therapist. Not boasting but I know how to be real without being too harsh. I'm pretty blunt, you'd be surprised. ​

There is always SO much more to do that you think. At least for me there is, in those last few days.

Yes, your thinking sparked me to start a before-the-trip to do list and it's pretty long.​

to candy cane, of course!

I know! I don't know that I can be that close and not candy. ​

PS? Planned sit down???? I've never heard that term. I would definitely do knotts for that price, even if you only do a half day there it's a great deal. We had a blast when we went and with low crowds were able to see all we wanted and be done relatively quickly.

Priority Seating. It's just like an ADR so I am unsure why the difference in terminology.

Yeah, I am really leaning towards Knott's. It looks so festive during the holidays.​

Jenny--of course you need a candy cane! Looks like you have a fun week planned! I'm super jealous!



Jill in CO

I am so excited! Kids are pumped. I emailed all of the kids' teachers and so far mnay have replied. Most suggested that the kids remind them a few days or day before we leave. At least I tried.​

Her blood test revealed no Hepatitis and the Ultrasound didnt reveal anything, so thats why the Cat Scan.

Also you shoukd get the candy cane if you can, but eat this one. You have one to save already!

No Hep is good! I am thinking it was just indulging. I'd hate to see my liver levels after this past Friday night. ​

 

[rentayenta]

So our plans have changed quite a bit from my post just a few short hours ago....

I received a call from my friend who is joining us on the Disney portion of our trip and her daughter's boyfriend is going to fly in Friday and propose to her at Disneyland. Only my friend, the finance to be be, M, and I know about this. I am currently wracking my brain on proposal ideas. Ariel is her favorite but I am thinking near the castle or Snow White's Wishing Well. Its just SO exciting. That however means we will have to be in the park on Friday instead of another day. It make most sense to change our non-park day to Tuesday for a few reasons. I really want to see Casa Nueva and the kitty herd too. Friday wasn't the best for A&F and in retro I hate pushing things off that I want to do because we seem to run out of time near the end of our trips. Its like that missing dryer sock.

I also spoke with my girlfriend today and we are going to stay with her and visit and not stay at the Hilton. I am very happy about this. I just love her and really want to spend as much time as we can with her. The boyfriend hasn't moved back in so it'll be great.

Revised plan:



Saturday Dec 6: leave SLC, drive through to So Cal, stay with friend.

Sunday Dec 7: Beach! Visit my dad in the morning. Mornings are better for him than evenings. It sounds silly but he never gets fast food and he loves McDonald's so we may grab that on the way. Or Jack in the Box but he prefers the hash browns at McD's.

Monday Dec 8: Beach! Or maybe Knott's Berry Farm. Knott's is having an amazing promo for law enforcement and fire personnel. The employee plus one get in free and everyone after is $30 each. The kids haven't been to Knott's and I've read great things about it. We'll see.....it'll be a little dependent on the weather but I'm doing a little Knott's research just in case.

Tuesday Dec 9: After we leave my friend's about 9:30, we'll run over to the GCV, check in early for a chance at scoring one of my villa requests, grab lunch at maybe Chen's and take it over to A&F's, visit, meet the fur babies and grab the air mattress. Leave by 2:00, go grocery shopping, and then head back to the GCV. Okay, I am loving this day. Our friends will arrive about 1:30 so they'll have to wait for us but they can stay busy in DTD until we get there. Dinner won't be at Cafe Orleans as planned but I am thinking it'll be light anyway after Chinese for lunch.

Wednesday Dec 10: DCA Starting the trip in DCA is always a struggle but it would be worse to end the trip there so there ya have it.
Park hours: Disneyland 9a-10p and DCA 9a-8p with EMH/MM 8a-9a
World of Color!
P.S. Naples in DTD for a late lunch

Thursday Dec 11: Disneyland and DCA This is the day we're spending with Alison.
Park hours: Disneyland 9a-11p with EMH/MM 8a-9a and DCA 9a-8p
Fireworks!
No P.S. but I think we're planning on Plaza Inn for lunch.

Friday Dec 12: Disneyland and the propsal!!!
Park hours: Disneyland 8a-midnight with EMH/MM 7-8 am and DCA 8a-11p
P.S. Storytellers for dinner but of course my PS is for 9 not 10.

Saturday Dec 13: DCA
Park hours: Disneyland 8a-midnight with EMH/MM 7a-8a and DCA 8a-11p
P.S. Carnation Cafe again for 9 not 10. And now that I have made the no hopper decision, I need dinner ideas for DCA. I am thinking maybe we'll grill in the villa. I suspect it'll be SO crowded so maybe we'll take an early decent sized dinner break and then close DCA down.

Sunday Dec 14: Disneyland
Park hours: Disneyland 8a-midnight and DCA 8a-11p. No EMH/MM.
Fantasmic!
P.S. Not really a PS but I booked the new Fantasmic! Grab and Go meal with FP! Lots of info floating around but I'll be happy to elaborate if you'd like.

Of course the planned WoC, fireworks, and F! are providing there is no rain/wind in So Cal and no cancelations.

Monday Dec 15: drive home, straight through, Utah bound.




I must have said maybe 10 times in the above.




​

 

[kaoden39]

What about near the waterfall in DCA?

 

[franandaj]

Revised plans look good!

If you're not hopping how will you do PS at Carnation on your DCA day?

Chen's is good, but its on the other side of town near our old house. We have been ordering from here since its closer. www.nomadasianbistro.com

I hope you all like our kitties and they don't get too shy and skittish.

 

[PrincessInOz]

Your plans are looking great. Hope the proposal works out for everyone concerned.

If that Nomad Asian Bistro Alison is recommending is the one that we had lunch at, I'd second the nomination. It served decent food.

 

[rentayenta]

What about near the waterfall in DCA?

Ooooooo, thats a good idea! I'm adding it to my list. ​

Revised plans look good!

I think so too. ​

If you're not hopping how will you do PS at Carnation on your DCA day?

We won't. I think we'll skip a PS that day. I need to get organized and cancel a bunch of stuff. The boys and Chloe are NUTS for not wanting to hop on such a long trip. It's less than $100 to add hopping on to all 5 tickets. ​

Chen's is good, but its on the other side of town near our old house. We have been ordering from here since its closer. www.nomadasianbistro.com

Cool, I'll check it out. Chen's was SO good. We don't have any authentic Chinese food here, not that I have found anyway. Michael only likes real Chinese food.​

I hope you all like our kitties and they don't get too shy and skittish.

I'm sure we will. I know kitties aren't as friendly as dogs. No worries.​

Your plans are looking great. Hope the proposal works out for everyone concerned.

If that Nomad Asian Bistro Alison is recommending is the one that we had lunch at, I'd second the nomination. It served decent food.

I think it'll work, maybe not flawless but marriage isn't flawless. He may plan a Castle proposal and may end up on the Disneyland RR. CURVEBALL! ​

 

[eandesmom]

Thanks for the restaurant recommendations Cynthia. I'll pencil in lunch Friday. Where do you live? We'll be at the Hampton in Everett.

Her blood test revealed no Hepatitis and the Ultrasound didnt reveal anything, so thats why the Cat Scan.

Sounds like good news on the blood tests and US, hopefully the CT reveals...nothing!

We are in Lake Forest Park. Which is in between Seattle and Everett, just off of I-5 but on the east side of it, versus the west where most of Everett is. You are right in downtown Everett there. While there are a ton of places to eat at Alderwood (big mall, in between Everett and us), given that it's black Friday, best to avoid that area entirely I think.

I'll chat with Jeff and see what he thinks. One of our favorite mexican places is very very close to your hotel, he gets there a lot for lunch as it's close to work but the boys and I haven't been in a long time and that could be a good option. Homemade tortillas and killer margaritas

He may have some other ideas as well and then of course there are plenty of places closer to us, though we tend to lean towards brewpubs lol.

Yes, your thinking sparked me to start a before-the-trip to do list and it's pretty long.​

Lists are good!

Priority Seating. It's just like an ADR so I am unsure why the difference in terminology.

Yeah, I am really leaning towards Knott's. It looks so festive during the holidays.​

Oh funny, both trips last year when I made our ADR's for DL...I don't recall ever seeing it say PS but maybe it did. LOL!

I am so excited! Kids are pumped. I emailed all of the kids' teachers and so far mnay have replied. Most suggested that the kids remind them a few days or day before we leave. At least I tried.​

Good luck on that one! I "may" be letting Eric miss a few days of school to go on a trip with my folks. Long story but basically they want to take him on his birthday trip over spring break...which is when we want to do Aulani. Neither of us want to do those trips in the summer. So I am proposing Memorial Day as an alternative with him missing some school. Or President's week, but that it likely too cold for them.

So our plans have changed quite a bit from my post just a few short hours ago....

I received a call from my friend who is joining us on the Disney portion of our trip and her daughter's boyfriend is going to fly in Friday and propose to her at Disneyland. Only my friend, the finance to be be, M, and I know about this. I am currently wracking my brain on proposal ideas. Ariel is her favorite but I am thinking near the castle or Snow White's Wishing Well. Its just SO exciting. That however means we will have to be in the park on Friday instead of another day. It make most sense to change our non-park day to Tuesday for a few reasons. I really want to see Casa Nueva and the kitty herd too. Friday wasn't the best for A&F and in retro I hate pushing things off that I want to do because we seem to run out of time near the end of our trips. Its like that missing dryer sock.

I also spoke with my girlfriend today and we are going to stay with her and visit and not stay at the Hilton. I am very happy about this. I just love her and really want to spend as much time as we can with her. The boyfriend hasn't moved back in so it'll be great.​

Is the boyfriend no bueno?

Exciting on the proposal!

Revised plan:



Saturday Dec 6: leave SLC, drive through to So Cal, stay with friend.

Sunday Dec 7: Beach! Visit my dad in the morning. Mornings are better for him than evenings. It sounds silly but he never gets fast food and he loves McDonald's so we may grab that on the way. Or Jack in the Box but he prefers the hash browns at McD's.

Monday Dec 8: Beach! Or maybe Knott's Berry Farm. Knott's is having an amazing promo for law enforcement and fire personnel. The employee plus one get in free and everyone after is $30 each. The kids haven't been to Knott's and I've read great things about it. We'll see.....it'll be a little dependent on the weather but I'm doing a little Knott's research just in case.

Tuesday Dec 9: After we leave my friend's about 9:30, we'll run over to the GCV, check in early for a chance at scoring one of my villa requests, grab lunch at maybe Chen's and take it over to A&F's, visit, meet the fur babies and grab the air mattress. Leave by 2:00, go grocery shopping, and then head back to the GCV. Okay, I am loving this day. Our friends will arrive about 1:30 so they'll have to wait for us but they can stay busy in DTD until we get there. Dinner won't be at Cafe Orleans as planned but I am thinking it'll be light anyway after Chinese for lunch.

Wednesday Dec 10: DCA Starting the trip in DCA is always a struggle but it would be worse to end the trip there so there ya have it.
Park hours: Disneyland 9a-10p and DCA 9a-8p with EMH/MM 8a-9a
World of Color!
P.S. Naples in DTD for a late lunch

Thursday Dec 11: Disneyland and DCA This is the day we're spending with Alison.
Park hours: Disneyland 9a-11p with EMH/MM 8a-9a and DCA 9a-8p
Fireworks!
No P.S. but I think we're planning on Plaza Inn for lunch.

Friday Dec 12: Disneyland and the propsal!!!
Park hours: Disneyland 8a-midnight with EMH/MM 7-8 am and DCA 8a-11p
P.S. Storytellers for dinner but of course my PS is for 9 not 10.

Saturday Dec 13: DCA
Park hours: Disneyland 8a-midnight with EMH/MM 7a-8a and DCA 8a-11p
P.S. Carnation Cafe again for 9 not 10. And now that I have made the no hopper decision, I need dinner ideas for DCA. I am thinking maybe we'll grill in the villa. I suspect it'll be SO crowded so maybe we'll take an early decent sized dinner break and then close DCA down.

Sunday Dec 14: Disneyland
Park hours: Disneyland 8a-midnight and DCA 8a-11p. No EMH/MM.
Fantasmic!
P.S. Not really a PS but I booked the new Fantasmic! Grab and Go meal with FP! Lots of info floating around but I'll be happy to elaborate if you'd like.

Of course the planned WoC, fireworks, and F! are providing there is no rain/wind in So Cal and no cancelations.

Monday Dec 15: drive home, straight through, Utah bound.

I'm confused, on Thursday you list both parks but...don't have hoppers. Does that just mean you'll pick one that day?

 

[jedijill]

A proposal, how exciting!

I like the new plans. Looks like even with the revisions, you all will have a fabulous time!

Jill in CO

 

[Pinkocto]

I was all ready to comment on your plans and then went to the next page and lots were different

Awesome you'll be able to stay with your friend

Knotts sounds very cool and a great deal. Hopefully the weather cooperates. No hoppers? for $100??? I'd just get them, or you can add them when you're there.

That's so sweet about the proposal

Oh fun! Love Christmas shopping. Any food deals?

Glad it was fun to see the alpacas. ​

]

No deals, everything was hand made. But gorgeous gorgeous stuff!

i'm sorry you're still short staffed. Where will you go next year? It sounded so promising and I'm sorry it hasn't worked out. Glad you're off Thanksgiving. Hope you don't have to work Christmas. ​

My plan has been Florida for the past couple years but I haven't been able to for several reasons. Next year should be the year. I've got to get away from this toxic environment. Probably won't be a permanent change but who knows.

Woot woot, still losing! Way to go friend! That's saying a lot especially during stressful times.​

I'm so excited

Its just hard sometimes.​

I'm not a parent so have no idea. But he did well at soccer camp right? He'll be great

 

[rentayenta]

Lists are good!

We do all love our lists around here! ​

Oh funny, both trips last year when I made our ADR's for DL...I don't recall ever seeing it say PS but maybe it did. LOL!

Yup at the DLR they are PS not ADRs. Same concept from what I can tell.​

Good luck on that one! I "may" be letting Eric miss a few days of school to go on a trip with my folks. Long story but basically they want to take him on his birthday trip over spring break...which is when we want to do Aulani. Neither of us want to do those trips in the summer. So I am proposing Memorial Day as an alternative with him missing some school. Or President's week, but that it likely too cold for them.

Ahhhh.......Is Aulani all of you or just adults? Where do your folks want to take him?​

Is the boyfriend no bueno?

Sort of. She deserves much better but she loves him so I support her. They have had some major traumas/losses which will bond them forever. Its just more comfortable for us all to stay there if he's not. He's always been great to us but it's a rekindled love and I'd hate to intrude.​

Exciting on the proposal!

So exciting! They are the cutest kids too. Michael is having a few stones sent out so hopefully he'll have one chosen by this weekend.​

I'm confused, on Thursday you list both parks but...don't have hoppers. Does that just mean you'll pick one that day?

We'll have hoppers that day only. ​

A proposal, how exciting!

I like the new plans. Looks like even with the revisions, you all will have a fabulous time!

Jill in CO

Thanks Jill! I am really liking the revisions too. I spent a good part of the morning figuring out and canceling PS.​

I was all ready to comment on your plans and then went to the next page and lots were different

Nothing, nothing, nothign and then wham! But I am glad to have more solid plans.​

Awesome you'll be able to stay with your friend

I am so excited. I was loving the idea of staying at the beach too but I'd rather have that time with her. The beach is only 15 minutes away so its no real struggle to get there.​

Knotts sounds very cool and a great deal. Hopefully the weather cooperates. No hoppers? for $100??? I'd just get them, or you can add them when you're there.

No hoppers. I have strict instructions from the fellas, NO hoppers. Joshua is adamant that we waste a lot of time. He said 90 minutes each time hopping so that x 5 is 450 minutes of precious vacation time. I love my little math nerd. ​

That's so sweet about the proposal

Isn't it?! I am so excited for them. ​

No deals, everything was hand made. But gorgeous gorgeous stuff!

Did you buy lots?​

My plan has been Florida for the past couple years but I haven't been able to for several reasons. Next year should be the year. I've got to get away from this toxic environment. Probably won't be a permanent change but who knows.

Florida as in move to Florida? Hoping that can happen for you! No snow!!!! Toxic is no good my friend, I am so sorry. ​

I'm so excited

if you want to text me a progress photo, I'm game. ​

I'm not a parent so have no idea. But he did well at soccer camp right? He'll be great

He did great at camp. I'm not worried about his behavior but I don;t want him to be sad. But as the days go on and my stress increases, the more I am sure not going is the right decision. I just can't do it all.​