You Want to Stay Where?! A July PTR* TR LINK 8/8!

[Avery&Todd]

so, even though Im pretty certain I didnt win the Guess my ADRs game, I'll still finish out the season of the best restaurant around!!

(or whatever its called!! )

Signature/Celebrity Chef
2. Le Cellier Steakhouse - oohh..I found the recipe for the truffle butter sauce..and Im wondering how many food items I can actually use it on!!

Character/Dinner Show
1. Chef Mickey's - LOVE it for breakfast and the character interation is FABULOUS!!

Table Service
2. Via Napoli - ugh...Im DYING over here thinking about that artichoke pizza!! and trying to figure out how I can get over there twice on our next trip!!!

Counter Service
2. Be Our Guest - even though CHH is on my list of places for the next trip, this place is too - and since this is a newbie, and if I couldn only pick one of the two, I'd go here simply for the themeing!!

 

[JennisSilly]

I always enjoy reading your trip reports. And I'm SUPER excited for your Etsy shop to open!! Hopefully you'll be in full swing before our October trip

 

[SoNotAPrincess]

I'm back and all caught up! I missed at least one voting round, but my choices for this round are California Grill, CRT, 'Ohana and Be Our Guest.

As for the thank you cards, we did something similar several years ago. I made "Pixie Dust Awards" that were printed on small round sticker labels and decorated with various Disney graphics and lots of glitter. Everyone in our party of 12 handed them out to CMs we spotted spreading pixie dust. The CMs LOVED them! Unfortunately, they're not allowed to add anything to their costume (uniform?); so they couldn't wear them. Luckily, they were small enough that they could be tucked in a pocket with no problem.

 

[TruLovesKiss]

Here are my picks for the Final Four restaurants!

Signature/Celebrity Chef ~ California Grill

Character/Dinner Show ~ Cinderella's Royal Table

Table Service ~ 'Ohana

Counter Service ~ Be Our Guest


Oh I LOVE the idea of the thank you cards! What a great way to recognize those CMs that are doing a great job! I think something the size of a business card would work, that way they can fit it into their pocket.

 

[shan23877]

I have missed out on so many rounds but maybe I can finish this thing out!!

Signature: since I have been to Le Cellier and we love it, I am voting for LC!

Character: CRT...we are not fans of Chef Mickey's. I know! Blasphemy!! We just had bad luck there all but once!

Table service: ok this one is HARD!!! These are a our two favorites! I am going to just choose one: Via Napoli

Counter Service: I have not been to BOG and to this point Columbia Harbor House is our go to so I will vote for CHH

Thank you for sticking with me and for voting! I think we'll have to try Le Cellier next time!

Picks this week are

Le Cellier Steakhouse
Chef Mickey's
'Ohana
Be Our Guest

Thanks for voting!

Kind of, but I completely understand where you're coming from!


I absolutely love both of those restaurants! What it came down to was WCC BBQ is good, but it isn't anything I can't get elsewhere. I've never had pizza anywhere else that tastes like Via Napoli.



Tournament:

This might actually be the easiest round for me to make my picks.

Le Cellier - Steak > Sushi

Chef Mickey - This one has become a first day tradition for us, kind of like it has become a last day tradition for you.

Via Napoli - I hate to vote against endless supplies of meat, but this place is just absolutely frickin awesome.

Be Our Guest - CHH is overrated.


Or visit them again to say goodbye...

Good point!

That's not cool...




I think it really would depend on the CM, but go for it! There's a Disdad who has a daughter working in the MK through the CP. She got "wrote up" for doing a good job last week and was excited about it. It might not mean as much to some, but I know there are certain CM's out there who would have their day made by something like that.


I really do like your countdown. Especially with Maddie's notes!

Thanks for your feedback on the thank yous! I think we'll go for it. Maddie is excited to give them out.

Thanks! If you'd like me to email you some before your next trip let me know!

Signature/Celebrity Chef

1. California Grill

Character/Dinner Show

Cinderella's Royal Table

Table Service

Via Napoli

Counter Service

2. Be Our Guest


Maddie still looks soooooo cute in her lilo dress! Im sure you guys will have an awesome time at o'hana!

Her coloring pages are just sooo cute!

Thank you so much! And, thank you for voting!

LTT was such a good meal! We walked up on our last day on a whim because the CMs were outside announcing that they were taking walk-ups for lunch. We had the Crab and Spinach Dip for Two - blue crab, spinach, cream cheese and warm flatbread $10.99 for an appetizer which I could have eaten as my meal alone and been happy

And then we both had the New England Pot Roast... Our Tavern Keeper's Favorite - braised beef in a cabernet wine and mushroom sauce served with mashed potatoes and garden vegetables $18.99 because our server said it was amazing and she was totally right! It was delicious and so much food! It tasted like homemade pot roast too!

Thanks Courtney! I've had my eye on that crab and spinach dip since I made the reservation. It sounds amazing! I bet Bry will want to get that pot roast.

Thanks for the kind words! And, to save you from a long exhaustive google search, I've posted the photo for you. The photo is in the center of the booklet, but I took it apart to hang on the wall. Course, I do have several copies of this cd, as everyone in my family received this cd for Christmas that year from me! I kept a copy in my purse for years, until it got so ratted and torned. Here's the photo!



I'm the girl in the middle of my two friends... this was by far the most awesome concert that I've ever attended, as we were so silly, so 16 years old all over again and Paul gave us so much attention! Two nights later, we showed up at the next concert in the same seats. When guitarist Brian Ray came out on stage he saw us and laughed. Then Brian pointed us and said 'no, not you again!'

And, I never wear Beatle tee shirts, I always wear something that I feel good in, ... I have to look my best for Paul!

Enjoy the show and can't wait to hear all about it... details details details!

Karen

Karen that's awesome! I love it! You are so cool!

Good point-I should dress for Paul. I think the concert might make it into the TR just for you.

I can't speak for the CMs but if I were one, I would LOVE to get thank-you cards from guests (especially little ones!). I know I follow a girl on Instagram who is friends with Pocahontas and posts pictures of the cute little things guests give Poca so I'm sure many of them will enjoy it!

Maddie's countdown pages are so cute. What a great way to make the days go faster!

My votes are for:

California Grill
CRT
Ohana
and Be Our Guest!

Thanks Courtney! I think we'll do the thank you's based on the feedback you guys are giving. I have some designs done and I'm working on more. I'll share with you guys next week!

YYYYAAAAAY CANADA! ….sorry…felt like I needed to represent for a moment there…glad Le Cellier won, and yes, definitely do it next trip!! It’s super delicious and the wait staff is always super friendly!

And yes! That Alice bow is definitely big enough, awesome!

I vote for:

Le Cellier!

CRT

Ohana

BOG!

Oh my gosh Maddie’s pose! That girl is the cutest thing in the world! I swear, all you disboarders with your adorable kids is just killing me!!

Bahahaha character…or twelve. Hey man, it’s always fun to meet characters repeatedly, especially the face characters! If you see that Naveen I know, you’ll have to say hi! Glad that you guys have semi good reviews of CM. I was hesitant booking in, but Jess said it was worth it, and I hear there’s lots of Disney carbs, baha. I also can’t think of a better way outside the parks to start a trip, it just seems so classic!

Oh my gosh, the CM’s LOVE stuff like that! When they’re little cute cards I’ve heard of them keeping them on the bulletin boards in their rooms. Honestly, when someone does something nice like that, it’s always awesome to have something to keep, rather than just a “you were amazing thank you!” I’d say do it! I definitely have a couple pages of templates saved on my computer to print out for next trip, as I know we’ll run into a few amazing cm’s!

Okay, the fact that you just got your ME stuff makes me feel better hhaha. I’ve usually gotten mine so far in advance, and we’ve booked the ME stuff now but I hadn’t gotten anything yet, and I mean, we’re using the bag service this time so I was kinda concerned, but oh well!! I have also heard that if you just give them the baggage claim ticket they can pick up your luggage with that too! WHEW

You’ll have to tell me all about the photopass plus, especially if you notice photogs taking more photos! I still want to get it, but Mom of course hasn’t said anything about it. You can exchange the certificate in for the card at the Poly, right? I’m thinking I’ll need to stop there before CM on our first night!

Wow, I talk a lot

Yay Etsy!

Have a magical weeeeeek!

Yay Canada!!

Please keep chatting! I love it!

I promise I'll tell you all about PP+. I really hope that it will get us more pics/more magic shots. I really, really hate having to ask for the magic shots. It makes me feel bad.

We've always had a great time at Chef Mickey. The food isn't outstanding, but the characters always have been for us. It's so very Disney to me.

Thanks for your feedback on the thank yous. I knew you'd have a good idea of whether the CMs would appreciate them or not. I'm working on some right now, and Maddie is excited to give them out.

Signature: I'll pick California Grill. I want to go there more than Le Cellier!

Character: Tough one, but I think I'm going with CRT. I've been to both, but I think the atmosphere and overall food quality gives CRT the edge.

Ohana. So much fun!

Counter Service: Hmmm...underdog! Columbia Harbor House

The coloring and writing Maddie is doing is so cute. It must be such a fun motivation for her to practice her letters and sentences (teacher talking!). I can't wait for your Etsy shop!

Thank you for voting! I love CRT too, I know that it's been getting mixed reviews, but we just love it.

She's really enjoying the coloring sheets, and she hasn't complained once about writing!

Etsy soon I hope!

It's getting so close! So exciting. Sounds like a wonderful birthday at Disney, and I personally think the thank you cards sound adorable. I'm sure you'd be able to tell if a certain CM would have a nice reaction to it.

I'll vote for California Grill, Cinderella's, 'Ohana, and Be Our Guest.

Thanks Marissa! I think you're probably right. And, if a CM wouldn't be receptive, they probably won't be the type to give outstanding service either.

Oh these decisions are getting too difficult....

California Grill - As much as I love Le Cellier, I hear such wonderful reviews and to try California Grill and watch wishes from the terrace.

Cinderella's Royal Table - Mickey you know how much I love you.... but's it's Cinderella's Castle.

'Ohana - Hands down!

Be Our Guest - Well, it's a castle... need I say more?

Oh the agony of these decisions...

Karen

Thanks Karen! I'm a sucker for castles too.

Signature/Celebrity Chef

Le Cellier Steakhouse
I just wanna try the pretzel bread!


Character/Dinner Show


Chef Mickey's
I've already told my bad CRT experience story, and Chef Mickey's is a favorite! The food is decent to good and we always enjoy a good napkin waving!

Table Service


1. 'Ohana
Oh boy..this one was actually tough. I did LOVE Via Napoli a great deal, but 'Ohana is a for-sure repeat for our next trip, and in fact we are considering doing 'Ohana for both dinner & breakfast next year. 'Ohana wins!

Counter Service

Columbia Harbor House

While BoG clearly has the finer theming and they offer the added value of a "sit down" style meal for a counter service credit, I just can't help but love CHH a bit more! Anyone who has made their way upstairs at CHH knows the real value, and that is a quiet and cool place to eat lunch, hidden far away from the mid day crowds of MK.

I really, really want to try that pretzel bread myself. I think it's a definite for next trip.

I'm really interested to try BoG. I hope that it lives up to the hype. I'm certain the decor will, but the overall experience will be interesting.

All right, here are my votes!

Signature - Le Cellier
Character - CRT
Table Service - Via Napoli
Counter Service - Be Our Guest

Yay for Maddie's Lilo dress! I love it!

That's a cool idea about having Thank You notes to hand to CM's. I don't think it would be silly, especially if they really deserve a thank you. If I had gotten something like that back in my theme park days, I would have been so happy!

Thanks Danielle! I think I'm going to do the Thank Yous. Maddie is pretty excited about it.

She's really pumped to be dressed like some of the characters that we'll meet. Should be fun!

 

[shan23877]

I have missed out on so many rounds but maybe I can finish this thing out!!

Signature: since I have been to Le Cellier and we love it, I am voting for LC!

Character: CRT...we are not fans of Chef Mickey's. I know! Blasphemy!! We just had bad luck there all but once!

Table service: ok this one is HARD!!! These are a our two favorites! I am going to just choose one: Via Napoli

Counter Service: I have not been to BOG and to this point Columbia Harbor House is our go to so I will vote for CHH

Thank you for sticking with me and for voting! I think we'll have to try Le Cellier next time!

Picks this week are

Le Cellier Steakhouse
Chef Mickey's
'Ohana
Be Our Guest

Thanks for voting!

Kind of, but I completely understand where you're coming from!


I absolutely love both of those restaurants! What it came down to was WCC BBQ is good, but it isn't anything I can't get elsewhere. I've never had pizza anywhere else that tastes like Via Napoli.



Tournament:

This might actually be the easiest round for me to make my picks.

Le Cellier - Steak > Sushi

Chef Mickey - This one has become a first day tradition for us, kind of like it has become a last day tradition for you.

Via Napoli - I hate to vote against endless supplies of meat, but this place is just absolutely frickin awesome.

Be Our Guest - CHH is overrated.


Or visit them again to say goodbye...

Good point!

That's not cool...




I think it really would depend on the CM, but go for it! There's a Disdad who has a daughter working in the MK through the CP. She got "wrote up" for doing a good job last week and was excited about it. It might not mean as much to some, but I know there are certain CM's out there who would have their day made by something like that.


I really do like your countdown. Especially with Maddie's notes!

Thanks for your feedback on the thank yous! I think we'll go for it. Maddie is excited to give them out.

Thanks! If you'd like me to email you some before your next trip let me know!

Signature/Celebrity Chef

1. California Grill

Character/Dinner Show

Cinderella's Royal Table

Table Service

Via Napoli

Counter Service

2. Be Our Guest


Maddie still looks soooooo cute in her lilo dress! Im sure you guys will have an awesome time at o'hana!

Her coloring pages are just sooo cute!

Thank you so much! And, thank you for voting!

LTT was such a good meal! We walked up on our last day on a whim because the CMs were outside announcing that they were taking walk-ups for lunch. We had the Crab and Spinach Dip for Two - blue crab, spinach, cream cheese and warm flatbread $10.99 for an appetizer which I could have eaten as my meal alone and been happy

And then we both had the New England Pot Roast... Our Tavern Keeper's Favorite - braised beef in a cabernet wine and mushroom sauce served with mashed potatoes and garden vegetables $18.99 because our server said it was amazing and she was totally right! It was delicious and so much food! It tasted like homemade pot roast too!

Thanks Courtney! I've had my eye on that crab and spinach dip since I made the reservation. It sounds amazing! I bet Bry will want to get that pot roast.

Thanks for the kind words! And, to save you from a long exhaustive google search, I've posted the photo for you. The photo is in the center of the booklet, but I took it apart to hang on the wall. Course, I do have several copies of this cd, as everyone in my family received this cd for Christmas that year from me! I kept a copy in my purse for years, until it got so ratted and torned. Here's the photo!



I'm the girl in the middle of my two friends... this was by far the most awesome concert that I've ever attended, as we were so silly, so 16 years old all over again and Paul gave us so much attention! Two nights later, we showed up at the next concert in the same seats. When guitarist Brian Ray came out on stage he saw us and laughed. Then Brian pointed us and said 'no, not you again!'

And, I never wear Beatle tee shirts, I always wear something that I feel good in, ... I have to look my best for Paul!

Enjoy the show and can't wait to hear all about it... details details details!

Karen

Karen that's awesome! I love it! You are so cool!

Good point-I should dress for Paul. I think the concert might make it into the TR just for you.

I can't speak for the CMs but if I were one, I would LOVE to get thank-you cards from guests (especially little ones!). I know I follow a girl on Instagram who is friends with Pocahontas and posts pictures of the cute little things guests give Poca so I'm sure many of them will enjoy it!

Maddie's countdown pages are so cute. What a great way to make the days go faster!

My votes are for:

California Grill
CRT
Ohana
and Be Our Guest!

Thanks Courtney! I think we'll do the thank you's based on the feedback you guys are giving. I have some designs done and I'm working on more. I'll share with you guys next week!

YYYYAAAAAY CANADA! ….sorry…felt like I needed to represent for a moment there…glad Le Cellier won, and yes, definitely do it next trip!! It’s super delicious and the wait staff is always super friendly!

And yes! That Alice bow is definitely big enough, awesome!

I vote for:

Le Cellier!

CRT

Ohana

BOG!

Oh my gosh Maddie’s pose! That girl is the cutest thing in the world! I swear, all you disboarders with your adorable kids is just killing me!!

Bahahaha character…or twelve. Hey man, it’s always fun to meet characters repeatedly, especially the face characters! If you see that Naveen I know, you’ll have to say hi! Glad that you guys have semi good reviews of CM. I was hesitant booking in, but Jess said it was worth it, and I hear there’s lots of Disney carbs, baha. I also can’t think of a better way outside the parks to start a trip, it just seems so classic!

Oh my gosh, the CM’s LOVE stuff like that! When they’re little cute cards I’ve heard of them keeping them on the bulletin boards in their rooms. Honestly, when someone does something nice like that, it’s always awesome to have something to keep, rather than just a “you were amazing thank you!” I’d say do it! I definitely have a couple pages of templates saved on my computer to print out for next trip, as I know we’ll run into a few amazing cm’s!

Okay, the fact that you just got your ME stuff makes me feel better hhaha. I’ve usually gotten mine so far in advance, and we’ve booked the ME stuff now but I hadn’t gotten anything yet, and I mean, we’re using the bag service this time so I was kinda concerned, but oh well!! I have also heard that if you just give them the baggage claim ticket they can pick up your luggage with that too! WHEW

You’ll have to tell me all about the photopass plus, especially if you notice photogs taking more photos! I still want to get it, but Mom of course hasn’t said anything about it. You can exchange the certificate in for the card at the Poly, right? I’m thinking I’ll need to stop there before CM on our first night!

Wow, I talk a lot

Yay Etsy!

Have a magical weeeeeek!

Yay Canada!!

Please keep chatting! I love it!

I promise I'll tell you all about PP+. I really hope that it will get us more pics/more magic shots. I really, really hate having to ask for the magic shots. It makes me feel bad.

We've always had a great time at Chef Mickey. The food isn't outstanding, but the characters always have been for us. It's so very Disney to me.

Thanks for your feedback on the thank yous. I knew you'd have a good idea of whether the CMs would appreciate them or not. I'm working on some right now, and Maddie is excited to give them out.

Signature: I'll pick California Grill. I want to go there more than Le Cellier!

Character: Tough one, but I think I'm going with CRT. I've been to both, but I think the atmosphere and overall food quality gives CRT the edge.

Ohana. So much fun!

Counter Service: Hmmm...underdog! Columbia Harbor House

The coloring and writing Maddie is doing is so cute. It must be such a fun motivation for her to practice her letters and sentences (teacher talking!). I can't wait for your Etsy shop!

Thank you for voting! I love CRT too, I know that it's been getting mixed reviews, but we just love it.

She's really enjoying the coloring sheets, and she hasn't complained once about writing!

Etsy soon I hope!

It's getting so close! So exciting. Sounds like a wonderful birthday at Disney, and I personally think the thank you cards sound adorable. I'm sure you'd be able to tell if a certain CM would have a nice reaction to it.

I'll vote for California Grill, Cinderella's, 'Ohana, and Be Our Guest.

Thanks Marissa! I think you're probably right. And, if a CM wouldn't be receptive, they probably won't be the type to give outstanding service either.

Oh these decisions are getting too difficult....

California Grill - As much as I love Le Cellier, I hear such wonderful reviews and to try California Grill and watch wishes from the terrace.

Cinderella's Royal Table - Mickey you know how much I love you.... but's it's Cinderella's Castle.

'Ohana - Hands down!

Be Our Guest - Well, it's a castle... need I say more?

Oh the agony of these decisions...

Karen

Thanks Karen! I'm a sucker for castles too.

Signature/Celebrity Chef

Le Cellier Steakhouse
I just wanna try the pretzel bread!


Character/Dinner Show


Chef Mickey's
I've already told my bad CRT experience story, and Chef Mickey's is a favorite! The food is decent to good and we always enjoy a good napkin waving!

Table Service


1. 'Ohana
Oh boy..this one was actually tough. I did LOVE Via Napoli a great deal, but 'Ohana is a for-sure repeat for our next trip, and in fact we are considering doing 'Ohana for both dinner & breakfast next year. 'Ohana wins!

Counter Service

Columbia Harbor House

While BoG clearly has the finer theming and they offer the added value of a "sit down" style meal for a counter service credit, I just can't help but love CHH a bit more! Anyone who has made their way upstairs at CHH knows the real value, and that is a quiet and cool place to eat lunch, hidden far away from the mid day crowds of MK.

I really, really want to try that pretzel bread myself. I think it's a definite for next trip.

I'm really interested to try BoG. I hope that it lives up to the hype. I'm certain the decor will, but the overall experience will be interesting.

All right, here are my votes!

Signature - Le Cellier
Character - CRT
Table Service - Via Napoli
Counter Service - Be Our Guest

Yay for Maddie's Lilo dress! I love it!

That's a cool idea about having Thank You notes to hand to CM's. I don't think it would be silly, especially if they really deserve a thank you. If I had gotten something like that back in my theme park days, I would have been so happy!

Thanks Danielle! I think I'm going to do the Thank Yous. Maddie is pretty excited about it.

She's really pumped to be dressed like some of the characters that we'll meet. Should be fun!

 

[shan23877]

I'm gonna vote this time. I think it's the first time I'm at least a little familiar with the restaurants in question!

Yay! Ponzerella is voting! Glad to have you playing along!


Signature/Celebrity Chef: No contest -Le Cellier
Character/Dinner Show: Another easy one for me - CRT
Table Service: Never been... but wanna - 'Ohana
Counter Service: Only 'cause it's new - Be Our Guest

Gotta represent for Canada. I get it.



uh, huh. For Maddie. Right.

No, no. I believe you.


Really.

Honest.

Believe me. I hate being the center of attention. I tried to get out of my own bridal and baby showers. Torture.

We had supper there and really enjoyed it. But boy were we stuffed afterwards!



I think they'd be well received. Who doesn't like being told they're doing a great job?

Thanks Ponz. So glad you're still around.

I've made some 'appreciation cards' for my DGD, who loves to give them out to CM and even some new friends we've met along the way. The CM have been so touched and some have told us how they will put these in their scrap books. My DGD is quite shy, so it was a nice way for her to say thank you. My cards are business card size with the different characters. I have some with toy story and star wars for Hollywood Studios. Lots of princesses and the usual mickey and gang. I'd be more than glad to share my designs with anyone. I think to have them on index cards with Maddie's signature is a wonderful idea!

Great idea! Karen

Thanks Karen! I think we're going to do it. Maddie is really excited. Business card sized might be best so that the CM can put them in a pocket if they'd like to keep them?

Two of my absolute favorites are in the running this week. I hope they win!!

Signature/Celebrity Chef
California Grill

Character/Dinner Show
Cinderella's Royal Table

Table Service
Via Napoli

Counter Service
Be Our Guest

Thanks for voting Mel!

Gosh, I am behind on the PTR! Anyway, my votes:


Le Cellier Steakhouse
-Chef Mickey's
-'Ohana
-Be Our Guest

Thanks for voting!

I was a lurky loo on your last TR. And I have just finished all of your inserts for this PTR. I have definitely enjoyed reading and I can't wait to read more. Your sewing projects are awesome. I have been planning to sew for the last couple of months and I haven't touched my machine I am truly inspired now and I hope I get a couple of projects done this summer while I am on summer vacay.

I can't wait to read more!

Welcome! I'm so glad that you spoke up! So glad to hear that you've been inspired. Isn't it fun??

so, even though Im pretty certain I didnt win the Guess my ADRs game, I'll still finish out the season of the best restaurant around!!

(or whatever its called!! )

Signature/Celebrity Chef
2. Le Cellier Steakhouse - oohh..I found the recipe for the truffle butter sauce..and Im wondering how many food items I can actually use it on!!

Character/Dinner Show
1. Chef Mickey's - LOVE it for breakfast and the character interation is FABULOUS!!

Table Service
2. Via Napoli - ugh...Im DYING over here thinking about that artichoke pizza!! and trying to figure out how I can get over there twice on our next trip!!!

Counter Service
2. Be Our Guest - even though CHH is on my list of places for the next trip, this place is too - and since this is a newbie, and if I couldn only pick one of the two, I'd go here simply for the themeing!!

Thanks for sticking with it and voting. I can't wait to see what restaurant wins!

I always enjoy reading your trip reports. And I'm SUPER excited for your Etsy shop to open!! Hopefully you'll be in full swing before our October trip

Thank you! I intend to be fully operational by then-be thinking of what you might need!

I'm back and all caught up! I missed at least one voting round, but my choices for this round are California Grill, CRT, 'Ohana and Be Our Guest.

As for the thank you cards, we did something similar several years ago. I made "Pixie Dust Awards" that were printed on small round sticker labels and decorated with various Disney graphics and lots of glitter. Everyone in our party of 12 handed them out to CMs we spotted spreading pixie dust. The CMs LOVED them! Unfortunately, they're not allowed to add anything to their costume (uniform?); so they couldn't wear them. Luckily, they were small enough that they could be tucked in a pocket with no problem.

So glad that you're back!

Awesome feed back on the thank yous. Smaller and pocket sized is a great idea. Thanks!

Here are my picks for the Final Four restaurants!

Signature/Celebrity Chef ~ California Grill

Character/Dinner Show ~ Cinderella's Royal Table

Table Service ~ 'Ohana

Counter Service ~ Be Our Guest


Oh I LOVE the idea of the thank you cards! What a great way to recognize those CMs that are doing a great job! I think something the size of a business card would work, that way they can fit it into their pocket.

Thanks for voting!

And, thanks! Great idea. I think you guys are 100% right. We're gonna do it!

 

[shan23877]

Here we go again guys! We've narrowed down 64 of the most popular restaurants in WDW to just 4! Without further ado.... I present the Tournament of Food Final Four!



Signature/Celebrity Chef

1. California Grill took on the 2. Le Cellier and, the Canadian Steakhouse took the victory by one vote!





Character/Dinner Show

1. Chef Mickey faced off against 3. Cinderella's Royal Table, and the princesses pulled off the upset.





Table Service

In what would have been the most difficult choice for me to make
1. 'Ohana came up against 2. Via Napoli, and the Hawaiian favorite squeaked out a win.





Counter Service

And finally, in the last region we had our least surprising victory of the week.

2. Be Our Guest handily beat 4. Columbia Harbor House





So there you have it folks! Our Final Four!






For next week (and the week after) we'll only vote on one match up. (Gotta keep this PTR running some how! ). So that means that 3 weeks from tonight we'll have our Tournament of Food Champion!


For next week:


From the Signature/Celebrity Chef Region Le Cellier

vs.


From the Counter Service Region Be Our Guest



I know that it's very hard to compare, but we must. Remember to vote for the one restaurant that you'd most like to try or the one that you've most enjoyed in the past!

 

[shan23877]

We are officially 28 days from WDW!!!!

Maddie has been in swimming lessons for the last 2 weeks, and I'm proud to say that she leveled up for the 2nd session and is doing AMAZINGLY! The improvement is remarkable, and she's having the time of her life in the pool. Most of the fear seems to be gone, and today she was begging to go off the diving board. I think we'll have a blast at Typhoon Lagoon!

She's been doing an into to cheer leading this week as well, and thinks it's tons of fun. I foresee pom-poms in my future...


If that wasn't enough, she has her dress rehearsal for dance recital Friday and the actual recital Saturday (I'll share pics next week!).

On top of that we went to a Cubs game on Wednesday where I took a few pics like this

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And Maddie took pics like this

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She loved 'looking for interesting things' and of course taking pics of them with my phone. We had already decided to take the point and shoot camera to WDW with us for Maddie to use, and judging my the volume of photos on my phone, we made a sound decision. I think she'll love being able to pass the time waiting in lines taking pictures of interesting things.


Since we've had so much going on I haven't accomplished much at the sewing machine, but I did get these done

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How cute are those? Carissa the AG is ready for the trip!

I also made a few of these

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On the trip planning front: it's almost time to start making lists! In case you weren't aware I ADORE list making. In fact, I don't allow myself to begin making my WDW lists until we're less than 30 days from a trip. It gives me something to do to pass the time

I'll leave you with a few of our countdown pages from this week. Thanks again for letting me share guys! I can't wait to share the trip with you all!

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[merbobear]

First of all, "I cant wate to see Wude." = CUTEST thing ever. I so adore the way young children write and spell.

Second, I love that maxi dress that you made! Do you do the ruching (or whatever it's called..the top elasticized part) yourself or was that the premade-elasticky fabric? I have used the pre-made fabrics before and they make just the easiest and cutest summer dresses!

My vote this week goes to Be Our Guest. Being that I have been voting for Le Cellier solely on the presumption that the pretzel bread would be up my alley, and I have actually dined in (and enjoyed!) BoG, it was an easy vote! I can't believe we are down to the final 4, and more importantly that you are going to be in Disney in a month!

Oh by the way, I saw you on a mutual facebook friend's list and sent you a request, which I am totally not pressuring you to accept, but I wanted to let you know that I did that so you wouldn't be creeped out by some weirdo's random friend request

 

[afwdwfan]

Here we go again guys! We've narrowed down 64 of the most popular restaurants in WDW to just 4! Without further ado.... I present the Tournament of Food Final Four!
Table Service

In what would have been the most difficult choice for me to make
1. 'Ohana came up against 2. Via Napoli, and the Hawaiian favorite squeaked out a win.

Nooooooooo. This tournament just lost it's credibility.

On top of that we went to a Cubs game on Wednesday where I took a few pics like this

Who did they play? Who won???

She loved 'looking for interesting things' and of course taking pics of them with my phone. We had already decided to take the point and shoot camera to WDW with us for Maddie to use, and judging my the volume of photos on my phone, we made a sound decision. I think she'll love being able to pass the time waiting in lines taking pictures of interesting things.

Great idea! I can already see "Maddie's pictures" being an interesting feature in a TR from her point of view.

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I kind of like what she did with multi colored Space Mountain there. That's a good idea. They need to do some kind of projection show on it like they do with the castle.



And even though this tournament keeps trying to make me mad, I'll go ahead and vote... Be Our Guest.

 

[katt789]

For ToF I’m going to have to vote for Le Cellier! Overall the food is better and the experience is great, it beats out the awesome atmosphere at BOG

HOLY POOP THAT MANY DAYS LEFT?!!? I’M SERIOUSLY SO EXCITED FOR YOOUUUU!!!

Cheerleading and swimming, glad she’s keeping ya busy! Ahahaha..oh cheerleading….please turn up on Cheer Perfection next season…

Yay! More pictures and an occupied kid in line, best idea ever! It’s always awesome to see Disney from that perspective!

Cutest spelling ever! “Wude” Aw man, you guys are gonna have SO MUCH FUN!!

 

[marDgreen88]

Um, I may be the only one to say this ever, but I think I'm voting for Be Our Guest. When I went to Le Cellier last summer, I wasn't as gung ho about it as everyone else seems to be. I'm still dying to try Be Our Guest, so I'm voting for it!

I had no idea your trip was coming up so fast! So exciting. And Maddie's spelling of 'Wude' is the cutest thing.

 

[Bethislucy]

My vote is Le Cellier

 

[TinksThree]

My vote is LeCellier!

 

[pkondz]

Easy one for me
Le Cellier

Maddie has been in swimming lessons for the last 2 weeks, and I'm proud to say that she leveled up for the 2nd session and is doing AMAZINGLY!

That's great! One of the things that DW and I were adamant about was that the DDs take swimming lessons. That's a life skill that's just too important not to have if you're going to be anywhere near water.

She's been doing an into to cheer leading this week as well, and thinks it's tons of fun. I foresee pom-poms in my future...

If she's anything like my eldest, with her dancing... good luck with your future career as a chauffeur!

And Maddie took pics like this

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Great shot. Shows creativity.

I also made a few of these

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Colour me impressed...

In case you weren't aware I ADORE list making.

Oh, really? Hadn't noticed...

And I chuckled that she had trouble spelling "wate" and "casl"... but absolutely no problem with "Cinderella".

Gee, I wonder what her priorities are???

 

[ronnmel]

Nooooooooooooooooooooooooo! My two favorite restaurants did not make it.

I vote for Be Our Guest.

Yay for Maddie loving swimming now! The same thing happened with Otaku. It only took a few swim classes and not only was the fear gone, but she was begging us to stay for free swim after.

 

[Cinderella909]

Karen that's awesome! I love it! You are so cool!

Good point-I should dress for Paul. I think the concert might make it into the TR just for you.

I know you will enjoy the show! What a great way to start a fabulous holiday! And, definitely include a concert report and be sure to say Hi Hi Hi to Paul!

It's so awesome that you are going all the way to Boston just to see Paul!

Enjoy! Karen

 

[Cinderella909]

Thanks Karen! I think we're going to do it. Maddie is really excited. Business card sized might be best so that the CM can put them in a pocket if they'd like to keep them?

I like the business card size as it's small, easily carried and seems just the perfect size to put into one's pocket. I always put a little personal info on the card too, usually small in the corner. It makes it more personal and gives a reference for the date.

The Smith Family
Charleston, SC
July 2013

You will be amazed at how appreciative the CM are when they receive these. Be prepared for a little pixie dust too! The first year, my DGD gave them out to everyone, anyone who said 'have a magical day' to someone who smiled at her! CMs faces light up with the biggest smiles and geninuely seem touched. I've had CM show them to other CMs with pride. And, even new friends who we met along the way seem to really like them too!

You'll be so glad that you did this, as you'll feel Maddie is spreading a little of that Disney magic too!

So excited for your trip! Karen

 

[Cinderella909]

Here's my vote:

Le Cellier!

Now, if BOG was for dinner, I might have picked differently. But, must say that the best meals we have at Disney is Le Cellier. So, I have to stick with Le Cellier, and let this castle slide.

Karen