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Post by janebanks on Jul 27, 2023 0:42:03 GMT -5
Where: Beach Club Villas followed by Vero Beach.
When: June 18-28
Who: Myself, husband, daughter, her boyfriend. Son, Daughter in Law, three granddaughters and grandson. Our two close friends and their teen son.
This trip was not as park focused, so we had lots of down time and relaxation.
We had booked for this trip a 2 bedroom and two studios at BCV, followed by four Garden View Inn rooms at Vero. Originally our other son was supposed to be going and in one of the studios, but Uncle Sam had other ideas, which seems to happen most years. So I offered that room to our close friends, who are also our camping buddies, and they have recently found a love for all things Disney. That seems to be fueled by their teen sons obsession with Star Wars.
In exchange for the rooms, they paid for our rental minivan as well as groceries and several dinners.
We flew in on separate flights, so husband and I got to enjoy Orlando International for about two hours while waiting for their flight. We took advantage of the USO during that time, and I got a nice nap in. I don't do well with early mornings, so it was definitely welcome.
No issue with picking up the minivan, process went fairly quickly. We decided to stop for groceries at Publix on our way. As usual, we overbought.
Once we arrived at Beach Club, bags and groceries were dropped with bell services, and we set out on a tour of the resort for our friends. No sooner were we heading toward the walking path and pirate ship, than I got the Room Ready alert.
I had requested renovated rooms and to be located near each other. All rooms were on 3rd floor, near each other at least. Rooms were in good condition, so no complaints.
I like to unpack and settle in, so set about doing so while we waited for our son and all the grandkids to arrive. I tend to spoil them horribly, so had all kinds of goodies laid out in the second bedroom waiting their arrival. While I unpacked, everyone else sat down to eat their Publix Deli subs. They make a good sandwich there, and we usually pick up a few every trip.
They arrived about an hour after we did, so we all headed down to greet them and help them unload with bell services.
The granddaughters were starving after their four hour drive, lucky we had a stocked fridge!
After feeding them, we decided to head down and enjoy Stormalong Bay for a little while. Love this pool, but with the grandkids in tow I found myself feeling kind of anxious about keeping track of them. I don't remember feeling that when my own kids were little.
Our friends were quite impressed with the pool and all it offered, and their son surprised us by deciding to go down the slide when the girls went. He is on the Autism spectrum, and typically super cautious about new experiences, but the entire trip he kept stepping out of his comfort zone. It was exciting to see.
After a couple hours of fun in the sun, we decided to go get cleaned up and take the skyliner to Riviera so we could grab dinner at Primo Piatto. Riviera has very good quick service offerings.
At the skyliner station, they weren't very busy so were letting us choose which we car we wanted. Youngest granddaughter, giggling like crazy, hopped in one with her Pop and said we couldn't ride with them. So then the other two girls decided they would ride with just me. Such stinkers. We laughed like crazy getting in, and away we all went.
Our friends rode with my daughter and her boyfriend, and they were not fans of this mode of transportation. It stopped for about a minute, I am guessing to load or unload someone needing assistance, and that was enough to spike their anxiety, which was heightened when we came in to the Riviera station. That quick flying in followed by braking didn't help. Our friend was texting me the entire time her feelings on the skyliner, which made me laugh.
Riviera was a hit all around. The look and feel of the resort as we walked around outside, as well as the food at Primo Piatto, The granddaughters are all gluten free, and we had no issue finding something they approved of.
I have some dietary issues as well, so I tend to be cautious when eating out. I chose their vegetarian option, a grilled veggie skewer with hummus and pita, as well as their charcuterie plate. Both very nice choices. I took half of each back to the room to finish later.
With tummies full, we walked around a little more, then headed back to Beach Club via the skyliner. Girls were getting sleepy, so it was off to bed once we got back.
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Post by janebanks on Jul 27, 2023 1:51:02 GMT -5
Monday
We had a late breakfast booked for O'hana. My husband was working on vacation most days, so he missed this one.
I had bought Stitch and Lilo outfits for all the grandkids, and my daughter and her boyfriend had found cute red and white tropical outfits at Old Navy. I like dressing in a theme at Disney, this is one of those areas I go overboard.
Everyone looked cute in their Lilo and Stitch theme though, and of course it gets extra attention from the characters.
We drove over, and took advantage of free valet since we have a handicap placard. We discovered that a couple of trips back, and now use it all the time.
Since we had a later seating, there wasn't much of a wait to be seated.
It had been almost twenty years since we had eaten at this character breakfast.
Daughters boyfriend is a HUGE Lilo and Stitch fan, and we didn't tell him this was a character meal. He was so excited when he saw "his boy Stitch". Those little bits of magic are what keep us coming back, and I love seeing everything through the eyes of a newer Disney guest. His first vacation ever was with us to WDW last summer, and everything is new and magical for him.
We were seated at two tables next to each other since we were a party of 12.
Our server was great, very attentive. She brought the girls a special gluten free basket of pastries since they couldn't eat the bread.
It had rolls and donuts in it, and all three declared it was the best they have had since going gluten free earlier this year.
They also had their own skillets brought out with gluten free waffles. Youngest wasn't a fan of the waffles or sausage, and didn't eat much of the eggs either. Oldest didn't care for the sausage, but ate the rest. And middle ate everything, and even requested more waffles.
I tried the waffles and rolls, and they were really quite good. I was impressed.
Overall consensus was this was a great breakfast. Everything was hot and fresh.
And the character interaction was fantastic. Characters came around twice and spent a good amount of time with everyone. Lilo was giving the heart sign over everyones outfits, Stitch was excited to see his face on tshirts. Lots of fun.
Grandson had his first taste of egg and juice, and well, he is now wanting to eat everything.
At the end of the meal, our server brought cupcakes to everyone since we had four in our group with birthday buttons. All four have birthdays within a few days of each other, and if our other son had made the trip it would have been five birthday buttons!
The server also brought a to go box full of gluten free cookies for the girls to take.
We hit up the gift shop, and youngest granddaughter was begging for one of everything. I told her to ask her Pop!
Daughter bought her boyfriend a Stitch baseball cap.
And each kid, even the teen, got a pressed penny.
We headed downstairs to Aloha Isle, so daughter could get the Pride Dole Whip. Of course, the girls and teen all decided to get one as well.
It was a hit, though everyone said the original float was better. I had a bite and thought it was pretty good. Vanilla Dole Whip and pineapple Fanta.
On our way out, we hit up the gift shop downstairs as well. Lots of cute clothing items, but wow...pricey.
Before heading back to Beach Club, we went across to Shades of Green to grab some dranks from the shopette for the room. Bourbon, vodka, and some premix cocktails.
The rest of the day was spent back in Stormalong Bay. Grandson enjoyed the sandbar area with the shallow water. The girls loved the lazy river and the pirate slide.
Husband took a break from work to come down and grab a hot dog at Hurricane Hannas.
He was able to join us in the pool after work, and spent most of his time in the lazy river part.
We ended our pool time around 530pm, so that everyone could get cleaned up for dinner.
The guys were having a Bros dinner at Yachtsman, while the rest of us headed to Disney Springs for dinner at Chef Art Smith's.
From what I hear, Yachtsman was great as always and a hit with all the guys. They also enjoyed the lounge before dinner. Husband and I have eaten there a few times now, and never disappointed.
The rest of us had a nice dinner at Chef Arts. Too much food! The serving sizes are ridiculous, we brought so much back with us. The girls did have a few gluten free options, and all three opted for bunless burgers. They also shared the deviled egg appetizer with me.
Our server, after seeing birthday buttons, brought out two huge slices of Hummingbird cake. Everyone was so full, we had to box it and take it back to the resort.
We stopped by Guest Relations so my friend could buy Photopass. If you want the military discount, this is where you have to go.
Girls enjoyed looking at the ship model of the Wish, and imagining being on board, going down the slide. I told them what I say all the time, ask Pop!
By the time we were done there, everyone was dragging and ready to head back to Beach Club so we could go to bed. I was surprised the girls didn't all fall asleep on the bus back.
After they told their daddy about their meal, in to bed for all three.
The rest of us followed quickly.
Tomorrow, doing a first for all of us. A day at Discovery Cove.
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Post by janebanks on Jul 27, 2023 2:43:39 GMT -5
Tuesday
Back in November, I booked our day at Discovery Cove during Seaworlds Black Friday sale. Tuesday had the biggest discount, so that is the day I chose. With such a big party, plus having the baby and my own disability needs, I booked a cabana for the day. I have a neurological disorder, and have to nap or lay down most days.
So the cabana was perfect for that purpose, as well as naps for the baby.
I also got a good price on the photo package. So glad I purchased that.
Early mornings are not my friend, but I forced myself up and about so we could get to Discovery Cove by 8am.
There was quite a line of people waiting to check in, but it moved pretty quickly.
We had to split our Dolphin Swim up in to two times, so someone could be with the baby. No problem, a quick call by the CM checking us in and that was all set.
She gave us instruction for finding our cabana host, and off we went.
Everyone else stopped for breakfast, and I went on to find our host. Easy peasy, she was waiting for us at the cabana.
I requested yuengling beer, moscato wine, sodas, water, and some gluten free snacks for the girls. Then I went back towards the buffet to see how everyone was faring. It was so busy, they were just then getting to a table with their food choices.
Girls had no issue finding gluten free foods for breakfast. With my dietary issues, I opted to only try some fresh fruit. Everyone else was happy with their selections.
With everyone happy and full, I showed them where our cabana was. We were located right next to the snorkel lagoon, super convenient. Our host told us where to pick up our wetsuits and swimvests, as well as snorkels.
For those of us who wear glasses, near the front entrance of the park you can pick up prescription swim masks. They worked really well for everyone, and I was so happy to have that option.
Our host had stocked the fridge and brought a huge selection of gluten free snacks for the girls. They were happy with everything, and said the brownies are the same as a pricey brand sold at Starbucks. She kept the snack box stocked for us all day, as well as the fridge.
First thing, the girls wanted to swim in the snorkel lagoon. The older two were a bit hesitant once they realized there were real fish and stingrays in the water, but the youngest is a little daredevil. It took a bit of convincing on my part to get the older two in, I kept telling them it was safe, the park wouldn't put them in danger. Finally, they ventured in and had a good time.
We had to get out for a bit due to a rain storm, but it passed fairly quickly.
Soon it was time for our dolphin swim, which everyone was excited about. Baby was sleeping, so Pop stayed in the cabana with him while our son came over to watch us on our swim.
Our dolphin was Frankie, and the girls just fell in love with her. They were soaking up all the information from our trainer.
This was absolutely a highlight for everyone, just a great all around experience.
At the end of our swim, Frankie brought out a buoy with our family names on it as a keepsake, and we got lots of photos with Frankie.
Husband and son had their swim right after ours, but it was delayed again by another rain storm. People were getting a bit peckish, so we went in search of lunch.
They found a pizza stand, but the girls said their gluten free pizza was yuck. It looked gross, it was heated up in a paper bag and was not crisp. Floppy pizza. It got thrown away. The buffet had a crazy long line, I guess everyone decided to eat while it was raining.
But they found something to eat there, and everyone was happy.
By the time they finished eating, husband and son were at their dolphin swim. So we stopped on the beach nearby to watch. Their dolphin was quite a bit bigger than Frankie, and knew some different tricks.
Both really enjoyed the experience, son was grinning from ear to ear.
Back to the snorkel lagoon, and I decided a nap was in order for me. So I took a rest while everyone else snorkeled.
The other thing I had booked was the Undersea Adventure, where you have a dive helmet on and walk around on the bottom of the lagoon to see the fishies up close. I booked it for son, husband, daughter and her boyfriend. Unfortunately after two ear surgeries, I was told one of the things I can never do is dive, so I didn't want to risk it. Looked like fun though. We got plenty of pictures of them since we had the photo package.
Once they were finished, we decided to venture to the other side of the park finally, and check out the Aviary and river areas.
Honestly, I think we need another trip because didn't see all of it.
After one time around in the river, the girls wanted to snorkel one more time before park close, so we headed back.
Our cabana host had restocked us once again, and came by to tell us to take everything with us, snacks and drinks. Then she helped us get our photo package squared away, with picking out photos to print and getting all photos put onto a disc for us.
After one last brief snorkel adventure, it was time to go. The day flew by it seems. We had a blast, and plan to return when the baby is around five or six so he can enjoy a dolphin swim of his own.
We all loved it, everything but the pizza.
Back at the Beach Club, we didn't have much time to rest. Everyone needed a shower, and then we got dressed for dinner at Artist Point Storybook Dinner.
Another first for us.
Our dinner time was a bit later than I would have liked, due to us having a large party. Most of our meal times I could only book later.
The meal was fantastic. Everything from appetizers to entree to dessert.
Gluten free options for the girls. Again, they had their own basket of rolls. All three chose gluten free mac and cheese with a salad and a side of fruit. They even had gluten free versions of the desserts.
Character interaction was fun. I got reprimanded by the Evil Queen, which the girls thought was hilarious. She was intimidating for sure.
We were the last ones to leave the restaurant.
Again taking leftovers back to the room.
Another successful day.
Our friends didn't join us at Discovery Cove, they spent the day at Magic Kingdom and had a great day. It was busy, but not so crowded it was miserable, and they didn't have any issue navigating with their wheelchair. That was an issue last year during their first trip with us, and they actually gave up on using it because it was so crowded and difficult to manuever through the throngs of people. No issue this time, and it made for a much better trip.
They were able to see everything on their list except Carousel of Progress. The one disappointment my friend had. In the app, it said it closed at 8pm, but when they got there at 7:40pm a cast member was putting up a closed sign.
Other than that, the day went well.
Tomorrow, see where the day takes us.
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Post by tomandrobin on Jul 27, 2023 4:37:32 GMT -5
Very nice so far..... spending family time, making memories.....I LoveIt!
I have never been to Discovery Cove. What a wonderful day! I need to add that on a future trip with the grands.
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Post by Brian5581 on Jul 27, 2023 11:14:59 GMT -5
What a wonderful summary thus far, thanks for taking the time to share.
And again thanks so much to your son (and you all) for his service.
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Post by Hi from RI on Jul 27, 2023 18:29:23 GMT -5
Following along...thanks for taking the time to write it...
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Post by janebanks on Jul 28, 2023 15:08:51 GMT -5
TomandRobin, I think Discovery Cove would be a wonderful way to make memories with your grandkids. We loved our day there.
Brian and HifromRI, thank you both so much.
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Post by janebanks on Jul 28, 2023 17:39:31 GMT -5
Wednesday June 21
We kind of had a lazy morning in the room, before heading to Seaworld. Our Discovery Cove day came with 7 days of admission to Seaworld, Aquatica, and Bush Gardens.
Again, Pop and this time our son had to work, so were unable to join us. Our friends had a lazy day at the pool, with lunch at Beaches and Cream. Their son watches Disney Youtubers, and was dying to eat there.
We arrived at Seaworld right around noon, with plans to stay until 4pm or so.
This day was hotter and more humid than the previous few days, and it sure did affect our energy. All of us were dragging.
Daughter and her boyfriend split off from us to go ride some coasters, while my daughter in law and I took all the grandkids to Sesame Place. Grandson has discovered a love for Elmo recently, so she was hoping we would have an Elmo sighting.
We arrived just in time for a parade, with lots of characters and energetic dancing and all the Sesame Street hit songs. I used to watch with my kids, so I still remember all the words. Grandson was pretty impressed with me.
Once the parade was over, she took grandson to go look for characters while I took the girls on several of the rides. Wait times were not too bad, ranging from 5 to 15 minutes.
After we finished with the little roller coaster there, I got a text that Elmo had been found so I gathered the girls, and we went to meet up. The meet and greet area is inside, lighting was not great so taking pictures with our phones didn't turn out. So I sprung for the photo package, so they could have pictures of the baby meeting Elmo. I think that is how they get you, with the bad lighting.
I didn't really mind though, and the pictures are a great memory.
It was nearing time for one of the shows, I think with Beluga whales, so we headed in that direction. Just as we set off, the skies decided to open up. And it poured. The stadium wasn't far, thank goodness, but we were all completely drenched.
It was pretty full of other drenched park goers as well.
We finally found a spot, and I passed out snacks from my backpack along with some water.
Daughter texted to see where we were, so they headed over our way. They had managed to get on two coasters.
We sat for about thirty minutes before an announcement came on that the show was canceled due to the weather.
The stadium emptied, and we debated whether to head back to the Beach Club or try and tough out the rain.
Heading back won.
On our way out we passed Wild Arctic, with walruses and beluga whales, so we went ahead and stopped to see them. Girls enjoyed seeing both.
After that, we made our way out of the park. We hit a little afternoon traffic on I4, but not terrible.
We had plans to attend the After Hours at Hollywood Studios with our friends, while our son and daughter in law opted out, They had pool time with the kids, then went to Disney Springs for dinner.
I had a brief nap before we had to head out to the After Hours Party.
Our friends wanted to take the Friendship Boat over, and we got lucky as it arrived moments after we arrived at the dock.
We debated getting me a wheelchair, and in the end I thought I would be okay with just my walking stick, and we thought I could use their sons when he needed to get up and walk.
Checking in was easy, the line went fairly quickly.
I had to reactivate my DAS in person, they won't do it online if you only have a party ticket. So I got in the long line at Guest Services for that, which took about 15 minutes to get to the front.
Activating the DAS was no problem, but they couldn't add my son and his family, I would have to redo that the next night for our Epcot After Hours party.
I had told everyone to head on to Baseline Tap House while I was taking care of that, so I headed in that direction. I always get the charcuterie board there, which my daughter remembered and ordered for me. I got there just as food was ready.
Husband and friend both got the beer flight, and between the seven of us we shared two charcuterie boards, two pretzels, and two short rib beef puffs.
They have a great charcuterie board at Baseline, and this was more than enough food for all of us to share. Husband enjoyed two of the three beers, while our friend thought they were just okay.
With tummies full, we backtracked to ride Runaway Railway. This was my husbands first time riding, and he was a little hesitant. He doesn't like coasters or drops. He enjoyed the ride except for the dancing portion at Daisy's dance studio.
Next we headed back towards Toy Story Land, where Midway Mania was basically a walk on, so that was the next ride. My daughters boyfriend got the highest score, beating me out. I am always the highest scorer, so I must have been off my game.
We had a DAS for Millennium Falcon, so made our way back. Got a little sidetracked because of some bounty hunter action going on. I think our friends son said it was a character from one of the animated series, I wasn't familiar but he was excited to happen upon it.
On to the Falcon. We got there just at 9pm, so they were checking wristbands. DAS was not needed.
Luckily we had extra hands to push the wheelchair, those ramps can be difficult. Our daughters boyfriend took over the wheelchair pushing duties to get our friends son through the queue.
This was husbands first time riding, and he enjoyed it, though it is a bit bumpy.
Our friends were never ride people before we took them to WDW last year, and now they love everything in Galaxy's Edge. They won't do coasters though, or drop rides, so no hope of getting them on Tower of Terror. I am hoping if I can get their son on a starter coaster like Barnstormer or 7 Dwarves that he will enjoy it, and then we could try working our way up.
Rise was showing a 60 minute wait, so we went toward Star Tours instead. Passing a snack cart, we grabbed some popcorn and drinks.
I don't ride Star Tours, so I took the opportunity to rest a bit.
We then walked back around to ride Alien Swirling Saucers, Midway Mania again, and got pictures with Bo Peep!
Then it was snack time again, with ice cream bars and drinks. I liked how it was set up in Toy Story Land. No real line, just walk up and grab what you want.
I enjoyed the Olaf Frozen strawberry lemonade bar, not too sweet and it was a nice change from the usual frozen fruit bar.
We hit up Millennium Falcon one more time, and did a few photo ops in that area. One Photopass CM had a lightsaber as a prop, and we got some cool shots of husband and friend battling it out with the lightsaber floating between them...thanks to my daughters boyfriend standing hidden behind them and holding it from the top.
Rise was showing a 20 minute wait, so we rode that next. Last time we rode, there was a 45 minute ride breakdown while we were in line waiting to go to interrogation, which really disrupted the flow of the story. Thankfully no disruptions. I was disappointed to see the cannons still aren't moving though.
By this time, everyone was kind of tiring out a bit. I opted to head toward Tower of Terror, and told daughter she could meet me there. We had traded out the wheelchair, so I was using it while our friends son walked a bit.
Husband wheeled me toward Sunset Blvd, while they all went on another Star Tours adventure.
We stopped for a bit to watch the projection show, I don't recall seeing this one before. Is it new?
Then we spied Daisy and Donald just wandering around, so I spent some time with my man Donald. Donald Duck #1! He loved that my magicband was sporting his image. He danced around with me in the wheelchair, and just as my daughter and her boyfriend were walking up, Donald starting dropping it like its hot. With me saying "work it, work it Donald". We were all dying laughing. Unexpected and funny and one of the top memories from our trip.
My husband decided to head back to the resort, it was way past his bedtime. And he had to work the next day.
So daughter took control of the wheelchair and we headed towards Tower of Terror.
I opted to walk in, instead of trying to navigate with the chair.
It was a walk on, and once in the lobby the CM gave us the opportunity to go behind the ropes and into the lobby to take photos. So cool! He took a couple of pictures of us on the settee there, dust and all. We were told it is totally at random who they choose for this.
TOT is one of my favorite rides, and this did not disappoint. Great way to end the night.
Daughter and her boyfriend ran to ride Rock N Roller Coaster before party time was over, and I was able to grab one more snack with our friends as they had caught up with us.
All in all a very fun event, and one we would do again. The only thing missing was maybe a DJ dance party and a few more characters.
We had to bus back to Beach Club, as neither boat or skyliner were running at 1am.
Tomorrow, Epcot After Hours!
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Post by janebanks on Jul 29, 2023 2:56:00 GMT -5
Thursday, June 22
Son, daughter in law and the grandkids all decided to head to Seaworld for the day. I said I might meet up with them, but the previous nights After Hours had really wiped out all my energy reserves. I wound up sleeping in and just having a lazy day.
They had a fun day at Seaworld, got more Sesame Street character photos, were able to watch one of the shows, and the two older granddaughters rode a couple of those big scary roller coasters. The rides there are not as "size friendly" as WDW, so son was not able to ride with them. They only stayed until 3pm before the heat got to be too much and everyone was getting grumpy. Back at the resort, it was naps for everyone.
We all ate a light snack before heading over to Epcot around 630pm.
No line, and they were letting people in at 645pm.
I made the mistake of thinking Guest Relations was just inside the park, and had to exit to go add son and his family on my DAS. My friend didn't know what I was doing and followed me out, It was a quick process, and then we were back in line to go through security again.
Husband rented a wheelchair for me because the amount of walking I did the previous night at HS had me wiped out all day.
First on the agenda, fish and chips. Husband always wants to stop for fish and chips. Son and daughter in law took the grandkids around to the Japan pavilion, because they could get gluten free chicken teriyaki for the girls.
I had told everyone days ahead of time, if they wanted festival food to make that a priority since the two hours until park close would go by quickly. The only festival food anyone had was the frushi from Japan. They brought some back for everyone to share when we met back up in France.
We watched Impressions of France to kill time before heading to Ratatouille. Surprisingly, the girls all enjoyed the movie.
Decent time killer, but in need of an update.
Everyone loved Ratatouille. Such a cute ride.
We then meandered in to the Morocco pavilion. Very quiet back there. Are they planning to bring back the restaurant there? We loved eating there, but it has been years since we have been.
Done meandering, and letting the girls pretend to drive a truck through sand dunes, we kept walking until we found a decent fireworks spot in Italy, near the gondolas.
This was our first time seeing Epcot Forever. It was cute. Short, not Illuminations, but cute. I don't miss the hideous barges.
We headed on to ride Frozen, and they were now checking wristbands.
Then we hit the Mexico pavilion to see my man Donald.
Leaving the ride, daughter in law wanted to stop at the Baby Care Center for something, but we discovered it isnt open during special event hours.
Our next ride was Test Track, so she sat out with the now sleeping baby.
It was our friends first time on Test Track, they didn't try it last year because they were uncertain if it would be too fast, to coaster like, to bumpy. But going to Disneyland this year, I told them it was very similar to Radiator Springs Racers, which they enjoyed.
Happy to say, they enjoyed Test Track as well.
Snack time, we hit up the cart near Mission Space for drinks and ice cream.
Son, daughter in law and the granddaughters all went to ride Mission Space. I opted out. I can handle Green, but Orange is a no go for me and that is what they wanted to do. I learned my lesson on Orange last year. Never again.
I stayed with the sleeping baby. Husband headed back to the resort, way past his bedtime again.
Our friends went to ride Spaceship Earth. I told everyone to meet me at Guardians of the Galaxy.
I had good dance music to listen to during the wait, the DJ added a fun element and vibe to the evening.
Son and his family grabbed more snacks on their way over to Guardians. I don't know how they managed anything after riding Mission Space.
Once our friends returned, they took the baby and youngest granddaughter while we went to ride Guardians. Youngest granddaughter was really sad she wasn't tall enough, but she had fun with them at the dance party.
We all loved Guardians, amazing ride. I rank this as a tie for Number 1 along with Flight of Passage. Love it.
I had a small issue with some cast members, that I am still mulling over. I asked to bypass part of the pre-show, something I did last year because I had a panic attack in that one part. Not sure exactly what set it off, but know that I don't want a repeat. So my daughter, who had been with me previously and helped me through it, called a cast member over and explained. We told them the second time I rode, they were able to help me bypass that part and I was fine for the rest of the ride.
The cast member rolled her eyes. Then called over another CM, who also rolled their eyes. And then called in a third cast member. A sigh and more eye rolling.
It took ten minutes for them to decide that I could in fact bypass that part, and I could wait for the rest of my party to meet up with me. It was strange and awkward and left me feeling embarrassed and frustrated.
I told my daughter I should have just closed my eyes, covered my ears and let her push my wheelchair thru that part of the preshow rather than have CM rolling eyes at me. It didn't ruin the ride or my evening, but it has stuck with me.
By the time we were done, it was after 12am, and we were all dragging.
We headed over to Soarin to try and get a ride in, and meet back up with our friends.
I can't wait for those walls to come down finally!
They were just getting off Living with the Land when we walked up.
Daughter in law stayed with the baby, to try and get him back to sleep, while the rest of us went on that one last ride. We took up a whole row.
First ride for my friend, and she loved it. Girls loved it. Even though they have been on several trips by now, they don't remember a lot of the rides, so it's like it's all new for them again.
We exited the ride just shy of 1am, and everyone was done. Ready for bed and soft pillows, warm blankets, and dreamland. Thank goodness for staying at the Beach Club.
It was a slow, slow walk back, but everyone was happy. Again, we thought After Hours was well worth it.
General consensus was that Epcot needed a few more snack carts, everything being so spread out and so much walking to try and find one. Maybe another dance area in the World Showcase area, a few more characters. Overall great time though.
Friday, sleeping in.
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Post by sherrih on Jul 29, 2023 11:02:34 GMT -5
This sounds like an absolutely wonderful trip. That's a lot of people to move and keep and keep happy at the same time and you all are doing a fabulous job at that. I'm so glad to hear you've found plenty of gluten free options. One of my daughter-in-laws is GF and we're going on a big family trip in February. You're giving me great ideas of restaurants that have options. I also need to check out Discovery Cove - we have never been there.
I'm so glad you're having a great time with your family and friends!!
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Post by Eli's Nana on Jul 29, 2023 11:12:03 GMT -5
Following, and enjoying!
What great family memories!
Discovery Cove sounds wonderful, and a great option for our December family trip since none of us have ever been!
I also had trouble the one time I did Mission Space - it was so well done, but I had my first and only panic attack on that ride.
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Post by janebanks on Jul 30, 2023 23:15:20 GMT -5
This sounds like an absolutely wonderful trip. That's a lot of people to move and keep and keep happy at the same time and you all are doing a fabulous job at that. I'm so glad to hear you've found plenty of gluten free options. One of my daughter-in-laws is GF and we're going on a big family trip in February. You're giving me great ideas of restaurants that have options. I also need to check out Discovery Cove - we have never been there. I'm so glad you're having a great time with your family and friends!! Thank you. I feel like I did a better job this trip with juggling all the family groups than I have ever done, and I think it's in part because we didn't overplan. We were very much go with the flow, do whatever, maybe meet up for a meal. Every restaurant had a gluten free menu they brought out, with enough options that the girls didn't feel forced into eating something they weren't really interested in or singled out as eating differently. And truly, everything they had was good. Very pleased with the options at WDW. |
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Post by janebanks on Jul 30, 2023 23:18:51 GMT -5
Following, and enjoying! What great family memories! Discovery Cove sounds wonderful, and a great option for our December family trip since none of us have ever been! I also had trouble the one time I did Mission Space - it was so well done, but I had my first and only panic attack on that ride. Thanks. If you go in December, be sure to get the full wetsuit. The water is rather chilly due to the sea life. Memories are well worth it though. I can see how Mission Space would bring on a panic attack, being so closed in. |
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Post by janebanks on Jul 31, 2023 2:51:53 GMT -5
Friday, June 23
Boy, did we all sleep in. Well, expect for my poor husband, who had work. Thankfully Fridays are typically slow for him.
Even the grandkids didn't roll out of bed before 11am.
Our friends had a day at Hollywood Studios, so their son could get his fix of Galaxy's Edge. They started their day late, heading out around lunchtime, and filled their time with Indy, Star Tours, Rise, Millennium Falcon, bounty hunting, lightsaber building, and ended the evening at Oga's Cantina.
They had their first family trip to Disneyland back in April, and comparing the two, give the edge to the West Coast. They felt there was more character opportunities, better layout. Oga's is easier to get in and doesn't feel as rushed.
My daughter and her boyfriend spent the day at Universal, with a one day two park ticket plus express pass.
They managed to see everything they wanted to with that.
As for the rest of us, after feeding the hungry kids, I took the granddaughters down to the quiet pool. I really didn't trust I could manage all three by myself at Stormalong Bay.
We had fun, they made some friends, played Marco Polo, splashed me a lot. Pop would appear on our balcony, and they would all shout and wave at him, daring him to leave work and come jump in to play.
He snagged an early dinner reservation at Cape May, so after a couple hours I convinced the girls we should go dress for dinner, with a promise we would go to the big pool afterwards.
We were seated in a largely empty restaurant, but it was hopping by the time we finished dinner.
Our server brought out a Gluten Free menu to help us find the safe food items. She also brought a basket of gluten free rolls, and each girl a bowl of mac and cheese. Again, the girls were very happy with the food available to them, and didn't leave hungry.
Everyone was pleased with the meal and food quality. We aren't big buffet goers, but it was clean and food was fresh.
Our server saw oldest granddaughters birthday button, and brought her a gluten free cupcake with candle to blow out. She was grinning ear to ear.
Bellies full, we returned to the room to change in to swimsuits, and then back down to Stormalong Bay.
We found four lounge chairs together, and I offered to stay with the now sleeping baby while everyone else hopped in the pool. Truth be told, I was ready for a nap too.
So son and daughter in law went to the hot tub, and Pop got to play with the three girls. Baby and I managed a good 45 minute nap.
Daughter and her boyfriend had returned from the Dark Side, and joined us for our last bit of pool time.
We swam and splashed until we absolutely had to get out, so we could get cleaned up for a late night reservation at Beaches and Cream.
Every day since I snagged the reservation I had tried to move the time up, to no avail. 1045pm is pretty late for ice cream, but everyone wanted me to keep it because who doesn't love ice cream?
All the swimming must have worked on the ol' appetites, because most everyone ordered food as well. Husband can't say no to the chili here.
The girls split a cheeseburger with side salad, served on a gluten free bun. Littlest though fell asleep before any food made it to the table, and she was out for the rest of the night. The two oldest also split a gluten free brownie sundae, and it was massive. It came with two huge brownies, scoop of vanilla, hot fudge, sprinkles, and whipped cream. The GF brownies were moist, had good texture and flavor was good. Thumbs up from the girls.
I had asked about the Kitchen Sink for the girls, but our server said it wouldn't be the same. That it would be ice cream and toppings in the sink, with a bowl of GF brownies on the side. We may try that on a future trip, but with the littlest asleep it didn't seem worth it.
I opted for a banana split, and could not finish even half of it.
Great late night snacking, Beaches and Cream never disappoints.
Back up at the room, got grandkids all in bed and I set about to packing for our move to Vero Beach.
Our friends returned late from Hollywood Studios, they had one of the last seatings at Oga's. Friend and I went down to the little sitting room off the Villas lobby to catch up on our day, and discuss plans for the next day.
Tomorrow, headed to the beach!
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Post by janebanks on Jul 31, 2023 3:52:39 GMT -5
Saturday, June 24
Beach day!
But first, finish packing and make a late seating for Beaches and Cream Breakfast.
It has been years since we enjoyed this breakfast, at least seven or eight because oldest granddaughter was just a toddler, and now she is an old double digit 10 year old! Fond memories there.
Server brought us an allergy friendly guide, super helpful, and then brought out a basket of gluten free pastries for the girls along with some GF waffles. Again plenty of options for the girls so they could try plenty of foods and not feel like they were having a lesser experience. Kudos to Disney!
Character interaction here was very good. Lots of attention, with Goofy and Daisy in particular spending lots of time with the girls and the baby.
One CM came by and sang a birthday song to our four celebrants, and then at the end of the meal our server brought out cupcakes for everyone.
This was a nice way to end the WDW part of our trip.
While the guys all went to make sure the cars were packed up and ready, the rest of us had to make a last stop in the Marketplace.
I let each granddaughter pick one thing, whatever they wanted.
Littlest chose a Little Mermaid barbie doll.
Oldest immediately picked the board game Life.
Middle had a really hard time deciding, I walked the store with her three times. She finally resorted to eeny, meeny, miny, moe, and landed on the game of Clue.
After figuring out where to fit those goodies into the car, we were off.
Vero Beach or bust!
Drive wasn't bad, very light traffic. We hit a spot of heavy rain just as we got close to the Wabasso bridge. Sheets of rain.
We checked in, and had one room of four ready.
My husband and I, second floor right behind the elevators. When I saw the location, I was worried it would be noisy due to the location, but that did not turn out to be the case. We couldn't hear the elevator running at all. By the end of our stay, I really appreciated how close it was to the Green Cabin Room, elevator and stairs.
It wasn't long before the rest of the rooms came available, two were located together on the fourth floor, and one other on the second floor but down the hall from our own.
Vehicles unloaded, and all settled in. It was still raining, so pool time was postponed but the girls had fun playing in the lobby with the recreation staff.
Once it cleared up, we managed a bit of splish splash time. Pool was warm as a bathtub.
We booked a few of the cocktail events for the week while there.
We debated going out for dinner, but nobody really wanted to venture out, so husband grabbed a late reservation at Wind and Waves.
I can't remember what all was ordered, but I know everyone was happy with the meal. The daily pizza special was ordered, and so good a second was ordered to go for a midnight snack.
With that, everyone headed on to bed, with plans for some pool time for tomorrow.
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