tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904Tue, 16 Mar 2010 10:33:18 +0000http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/noreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)Blogger167125FamilyDisneyVacationshttp://feedburner.google.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-1329536264799163049Sat, 13 Mar 2010 14:25:00 +00002010-03-13T09:25:29.153-05:00EventsFlower and Garden FestivalEpcotVideosEver wonder how those awesome looking topiaries you see at the Flower &amp; Garden Festival are made? Or how many people it takes to make them?<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5ufpD_sPDI/AAAAAAAAFho/ybk_hOOsDDs/s1600-h/DSCN0445-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5ufpD_sPDI/AAAAAAAAFho/ybk_hOOsDDs/s320/DSCN0445-1.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5ufnaMDz0I/AAAAAAAAFhg/okXsn6bqjOI/s1600-h/DSCN0441-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5ufnaMDz0I/AAAAAAAAFhg/okXsn6bqjOI/s320/DSCN0441-1.jpg" /></a></div><br /> The <a href="http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2010/03/time-lapse-video-epcot-international-flower-garden-festival/">Disney Parks blog</a> has an excellent time lapse video showing how this is all created! Take a look:<br /> <br /> <p align="center"><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" height="265" id="viddler" width="437"><param name="movie" value="http://www.viddler.com/simple_on_site/4658c15a" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="flashvars" value="fake=1"/><embed src="http://www.viddler.com/simple_on_site/4658c15a" width="437" height="265" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowScriptAccess="always" allowFullScreen="true" flashvars="fake=1" name="viddler" ></embed></object></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-1329536264799163049?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/oC_ssicIu30" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/oC_ssicIu30/epcot-international-flower-garden_13.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)2http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/03/epcot-international-flower-garden_13.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-1667593653214278301Fri, 12 Mar 2010 15:28:00 +00002010-03-12T10:28:33.661-05:00DVCBay Lake TowerVideosI love following the '<a href="http://travelwithrick.com/"target="_blank">Travel With Rick</a>' blog! Here is a video tour of a grand villa at Bay Lake Tower!<br /> <br /> <p align="center"><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" width="437" height="333" id="viddler"><param name="movie" value="http://www.viddler.com/player/b93cd7f/" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="flashvars" value="fake=1"/><embed src="http://www.viddler.com/player/b93cd7f/" width="437" height="333" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowScriptAccess="always" allowFullScreen="true" flashvars="fake=1" name="viddler" ></embed></object></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-1667593653214278301?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/lQoUPgDk-9Y" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/lQoUPgDk-9Y/grand-villa-at-bay-lake-tower-video.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/03/grand-villa-at-bay-lake-tower-video.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-3332917556235625875Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:01:00 +00002010-03-11T07:07:12.452-05:00Disney ResortsDVCBay Lake TowerPolynesian ResortI really love the Polynesian resort, which is why we've always stayed there on our Disney trips. It certainly has a tropical island feel. <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5jTDIxu7yI/AAAAAAAAFhA/pN0kBSkQWIY/s1600-h/Polynesian1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5jTDIxu7yI/AAAAAAAAFhA/pN0kBSkQWIY/s400/Polynesian1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> I always felt as though I was really in the midst of an island paradise. Mornings at the Polynesian are so serene. Taking a walk on the grounds is a must do.<br /> <br /> So why did we decide to go from staying at the Polynesian every year to becoming DVC members and choosing Bay Lake Tower as our home resort? Well, we are a family of 5 and most times, when we visit WDW another family member or other family members come along.<br /> <br /> In <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/p/2008-trip.html"target="_blank">2008</a> my mom and grandma came along, as well as my mother in law, so there were 8 of us and 2 rooms were needed. We got connecting rooms which worked out wonderfully but let me tell you, the price tag was hefty; thankfully my mom and grandma paid for their own room.<br /> <br /> In <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/p/2009-trip.html"target="_blank">2009</a> only my mother in law came along, so there were 6 of us total. Now, the rooms at the Polynesian are a very nice size but they still only allow for 5 people to a room. Wyatt was not yet 3 at the time so all 6 of us were able to stay in one room (5 and an infant) and while that worked financially, it was a bit crowded.<br /> <br /> This year that would not work as Wyatt is over 3 now and is not considered an infant. There is no way we could afford 2 rooms again. We realized if we wanted to continue going to WDW we'd either have to try and get a villa at a resort that has them, which is VERY expensive; or we'd have to get 2 rooms at a value or moderate resort.<br /> <br /> I've heard good things about Pop Century as far as value resorts go and I've heard good things about all the moderate resorts but with 3 small children, staying at a deluxe resort was what I wanted for one reason - LOCATION. There is nothing easier than hopping on the monorail to get to the Magic Kingdom or Epcot, which are the two parks we are at the most. We do so much 'back and forth' between those parks and the resort that it made absolutely no sense to chose a resort that required us to use bus transportation.<br /> <br /> This was a huge deciding factor when we chose Bay Lake Tower to be our home resort when we became DVC members. We can WALK 5 minutes to the Magic Kingdom! Bay Lake Tower is in the heart of the major areas of WDW; major areas for us anyway ;]<br /> <br /> Financially speaking, it just made sense to become DVC members. Read <br /> '<a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/09/paying-for-disney-vacation-club.html" target="_blank">Paying For a Disney Vacation Club Membership</a>' and '<a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/08/why-we-chose-bay-lake-tower.html" target="_blank">Why We Chose Bay Lake Tower</a>' for DVC member details.<br /> <br /> So, while we won't be waking up to a lush tropical paradise, we will be waking up to a beautiful view of the Magic Kingdom and a gorgeous sunrise.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5jbNTQtgoI/AAAAAAAAFhI/d9VPrIRhZkE/s1600-h/BLT+morning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5jbNTQtgoI/AAAAAAAAFhI/d9VPrIRhZkE/s400/BLT+morning.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffbpictures/4130294617/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-3332917556235625875?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/fDXIkjtQ5mU" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/fDXIkjtQ5mU/from-polynesian-to-bay-lake-tower.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/03/from-polynesian-to-bay-lake-tower.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-320462861520779165Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:12:00 +00002010-03-09T08:22:30.507-05:00WDW '09 Trip PlanningI am still very much excited about our upcoming trip - but...I'm doing all the planing myself - planning for 5 adults and 3 kids and everyone is coming and going on different days.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5Y4YYBJEYI/AAAAAAAAFgo/IrRriKW28Tk/s1600-h/2244560470_2b92162eb2_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5Y4YYBJEYI/AAAAAAAAFgo/IrRriKW28Tk/s640/2244560470_2b92162eb2_o.jpg" width="427" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/expressmonorail/collections/72157603853957340/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></span></div><br /> Now that we're down to the wire and I have the details to plan, I'm feeling a bit frazzled. I'm also a bit disappointed about something that I have no control over. See, one of my very best friends, Cherie, is coming on vacation with us. She has not been to WDW since she was about 12 years old. She has one child, Damon, who is 15 and he has never been to WDW. Of course I invited him along but he's declined, more than once.<br /> <br /> Damon loves to go hunting and the beginning of May is turkey season. He'd much rather go turkey hunting than go to WDW. As a Disney FANatic, I of course, don't understand how anyone wouldn't want to at least go to WDW at least once, (hahahahaa) especially a kid! Hey, I realize WDW is not for everyone, but what 15 year old doesn't want a week off from school to go to Florida on vacation? Damon.<br /> <br /> However, the other day he posted this question on his Facebook page: <br /> "what would you rather do, May 1st-7th, go turkey hunting or to disney???"<br /> Of course all his friends said Disney. Then he posted: <br /> "Go Big or Go Home!!!! anyway, Turkey hunting or Disney? where would you go??"<br /> Again, everyone replied with DISNEY! <br /> <br /> When I saw his Facebook updates I thought he must be contemplating going, if he posted that question twice. We are going to be in a 2 bedroom villa so we'll have the room, the 'problem' was dinning reservations. I know you can't just show up with an extra person and expect to have no issues. So, I decided I'd rather be safe than sorry. I called Disney dinning to add him to our meals. I only had to re-arrange 4 meals:<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><i>Tuesday May 4th 'Ohana was at 6:30 and now dinner is at 8:20</i></div><br /> Cons: <br /> <ul><li>That's very late for the kids but I will make sure they have something to eat around 5pm and that they are rested before dinner</li> <li>I was contemplating a Wishes Cruise after this meal - perfect timing and we'd be where we need to be to get the boat.</li> </ul>Pros:<br /> <ul><li>We will have more time to get to our dinner reservation. We&nbsp; will be at Animal Kingdom that day and it's open until 5pm. We'll be able to stay the day if we want and still rest and freshen up before diner at 8:20 </li> <li>We will be able to see Wishes fireworks from 'Ohana, if we get a window seat. If not, we can still take a peek out the window to see the fireworks. In fact, we may even be done eating by the time Wishes starts and then we'll be able to see the fireworks from the Polynesian beach.</li> </ul><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Wednesday, May 5th Sci-Fi Dine In Theater was at 4pm and now reservations are at 3:45pm</i></div><br /> Not a big deal so this day won't really change.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><i>Thursday, May 6th San Angel Inn was at 6:30pm and is now at 6:45pm </i></div><br /> Again, not a big deal - WHEW :]<br /> <br /> Friday, May 7th breakfast was at Chef Mickey's at 10am - I could not reschedule Chef Mickey's, it was booked solid.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5ZISr_gOWI/AAAAAAAAFgw/I1N2XoVx2tE/s1600-h/2336882646_d68a6948bc_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5ZISr_gOWI/AAAAAAAAFgw/I1N2XoVx2tE/s400/2336882646_d68a6948bc_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/expressmonorail/collections/72157603853957340/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></span></div><br /> <br /> I went with Whispering Canyon at the Wilderness Lodge. It was that or 'Ohana and we'll already be eating at 'Ohana this trip.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5ZI5RXDSyI/AAAAAAAAFg4/gMJnILanE6E/s1600-h/DSCN0543-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5ZI5RXDSyI/AAAAAAAAFg4/gMJnILanE6E/s400/DSCN0543-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <br /> Cons:<br /> <ul><li>The kids really love Chef Mickey's so they'll be grumpy about this</li> </ul>Pros:<br /> <ul><li>CJ and I don't like Chef Mickey anyway, LOL</li> <li>Whispering Canyon is an okay place to eat, the food is good and the Wilderness Lodge is nice. We ate breakfast there on <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/07/walt-disney-world-vacation-09-day-7.html"target="_blank">our last trip</a> and liked it. </li> </ul>So, all in all, there weren't many changes to our <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/01/disney-vacation-itinerary-for-spring.html"target="_blank">'official' 2010 itinerary</a> and I'm glad I was able to plan for the off chance that Damon decides to come along. However, his last Facebook update said:<br /> "Only 46 days, 2 hours, 56 minutes and 39 seconds till turkey season!!!! yes i'm a little excited"<br /> <br /> Guess I shouldn't get too excited about him coming along, huh?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-320462861520779165?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/xoJvfGAsFUM" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/xoJvfGAsFUM/downside-to-planning-disney-vacation.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)1http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/03/downside-to-planning-disney-vacation.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-4140167329629915173Sat, 06 Mar 2010 14:42:00 +00002010-03-06T09:42:08.081-05:00EpcotVideosTilt shift photography is really cool! I posted a tilt shift photography video from DisneyParks '<a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/10/day-in-life-of-walt-disney-world.html"target="_blank">A Day in the Life of Walt Disney World</a>' back in October. Now here is one for Epcot. Enjoy! <br /> <br /> <p align="center"><object width="500" height="315"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/F6pTRcVuoRA&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xcc2550&color2=0xe87a9f&hd=1&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/F6pTRcVuoRA&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xcc2550&color2=0xe87a9f&hd=1&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="500" height="315"></embed></object></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-4140167329629915173?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/6eRoBd4LTmE" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/6eRoBd4LTmE/day-at-epcot.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/03/day-at-epcot.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-8223737457813522430Sat, 06 Mar 2010 00:59:00 +00002010-03-06T09:35:15.114-05:00Flower and Garden FestivalEpcotVideosWe LOVE going to Disney during the Flower & Garden Festival! We were there in 2008 and in 2009 and we'll be there this year for it too!<br /> <br /> Here is a video of this year's Flower &amp; Garden Festival submitted by Orlando Attractions Magazine reader Don Gworek. <br /> <br /> <p align="center"><object width="500" height="315"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RlyV1d-W3Ho&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xe1600f&color2=0xfebd01&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RlyV1d-W3Ho&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xe1600f&color2=0xfebd01&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="500" height="315"></embed></object></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-8223737457813522430?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/IF1n_jHSWAA" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/IF1n_jHSWAA/epcot-international-flower-garden.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/03/epcot-international-flower-garden.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-6488797880565847355Fri, 05 Mar 2010 12:01:00 +00002010-03-05T07:32:09.381-05:00Disney DiningPolynesian ResortThe Polynesian has been our resort of choice for the last two years and it's kind of weird knowing this time when we go we won't be staying there. Bay Lake Tower is close by so we'll still get to take in the beauty that is the Polynesian Resort.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5DtGDdWRII/AAAAAAAAFeU/SRxkwprV6n4/s1600-h/Polynesian1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5DtGDdWRII/AAAAAAAAFeU/SRxkwprV6n4/s400/Polynesian1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> This year we plan on having dinner at 'Ohana. We have never had dinner, we've always eaten breakfast there.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5DuBuGWnUI/AAAAAAAAFec/dCRs9BVumhM/s1600-h/DSCN0297-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5DuBuGWnUI/AAAAAAAAFec/dCRs9BVumhM/s400/DSCN0297-1.jpg" width="400" /></a>&nbsp;</div><br /> There are no characters at dinner time but there is still excitement - a fire pit! Dinners consist of fire-roasted all you can eat cuisine. The food is served "family style" of course, since 'Ohana means 'family' that makes sense!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5DulbOxQEI/AAAAAAAAFek/9J5wXNknDX0/s1600-h/4319465767_51a7060ec8_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5DulbOxQEI/AAAAAAAAFek/9J5wXNknDX0/s400/4319465767_51a7060ec8_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/richo-fan/4319465767/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></span></div><br /> Now, I have heard complaints about 'Ohana - but not where food is concerned. The main complaints I have heard were about children and the craziness of the restaurant. This restaurant has entertainment every night. Music and singing ensues and children are invited to join in the fun. Roughly every twenty minutes, the children are invited in the center of the restaurant for game time. Now I have never experienced this but I am a faithful reader of The “World” According to Jack - read his review for more details: <a href="http://land.allears.net/blogs/jackspence/2009/10/ohana_1.html" target="_blank">‘Ohana at Disney's Polynesian Resort</a><br /> <br /> From what I've heard about dinner here, if you're a couple looking for some romance, this is NOT the place to go. I think it will be perfect for us since we will have a big mixed party; CJ, me, our 3 kids, his mom and my friend Cherie. I am looking forward to dinner here. Our reservations are at 6:30pm so we won't be there when Wishes starts (you can see Wishes fireworks perfectly from a window at 'Ohana) but we will most likely head down to the beach to watch. <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5DySEaxvtI/AAAAAAAAFes/C-JzPyEbSi4/s1600-h/3595803082_2bbb5dc57f_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5DySEaxvtI/AAAAAAAAFes/C-JzPyEbSi4/s400/3595803082_2bbb5dc57f_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/39134511@N06/3595803082/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></span></div><br /> In fact, I am still tinkering around the idea of another <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/05/walt-disney-world-vacation-09-day-3_5646.html" target="_blank">Wishes Cruise</a> - we really enjoyed it last year.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5Dyo6zUHZI/AAAAAAAAFe0/5nPowstAFMA/s1600-h/2810_179206930290_825130290_6631-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S5Dyo6zUHZI/AAAAAAAAFe0/5nPowstAFMA/s400/2810_179206930290_825130290_6631-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-6488797880565847355?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/x-7fZQ1illk" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/x-7fZQ1illk/ohana-at-disneys-polynesian-resort.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/03/ohana-at-disneys-polynesian-resort.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-8378703927883501013Mon, 01 Mar 2010 13:22:00 +00002010-03-06T09:35:37.502-05:00Rides and AttractionsEpcotVideosOlivia and I went on <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/soarin/" target="_blank">Soarin'</a> last year for the first time and it was amazing! This year I realy would love to get my grandmother on it, I think she'd LOVE it!<br /> <br /> Have you ridden Soarin'? If not, this is the best I can do to give you the experience!<br /> <br /> <p align="center"><object height="315" width="500"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/KO3Up_U3Elw&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xcc2550&color2=0xe87a9f&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/KO3Up_U3Elw&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xcc2550&color2=0xe87a9f&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="500" height="315"></embed></object></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-8378703927883501013?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/F8TMxxzwx5Y" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/F8TMxxzwx5Y/experience-soarin.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/03/experience-soarin.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-5239781602841496962Sat, 27 Feb 2010 17:47:00 +00002010-02-27T12:49:47.241-05:00Magic KingdomHere in Pennsylvania we've been hit by snowstorm after snowstorm. Some people have asked me if I wish I were in Disney World right now. Well, of course I ALWAYS wish I were in Disney World (most seconds of the day) but honestly, there is no way I would want to be in the Happiest Place on Earth and then come home to snow and cold temperatures! I am looking forward to being there in April/May. The flowers and shrubbery are so stunning that time of year!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4lZRfcddQI/AAAAAAAAFcc/gtW1nbYoFqw/s1600-h/4304036060_a37056ba8d_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4lZRfcddQI/AAAAAAAAFcc/gtW1nbYoFqw/s400/4304036060_a37056ba8d_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sammers05/4304036060/in/set-72157616696133969/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></span></div><br /> There are so many places that we visit every time we go to WDW that we become used to seeing them and then one day they just POP out at us! Here is a perfect example, the Liberty Tree:<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4lZTV8xTDI/AAAAAAAAFck/7PqXJmZM2y0/s1600-h/4391698795_986c086470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4lZTV8xTDI/AAAAAAAAFck/7PqXJmZM2y0/s400/4391698795_986c086470.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/expressmonorail/4391698795/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></span></div><br /> <blockquote>The plaque under the tree reads:<br /> <br /> “Under the roughs of the original Liberty Tree in Boston in 1765, patriots, calling themselves “The Sons of Liberty,” gathered to protest the imposition of the Stamp Act. In the years that followed, almost every American town had a Liberty Tree – a living symbol of the American freedom of speech and assembly. Our Liberty Tree is a Southern Live Oak, Quercus Virginiana, more than 100 years old.”</blockquote><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-5239781602841496962?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/40EZjuJ2gLQ" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/40EZjuJ2gLQ/deeper-look-into-magic-kingdom.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/02/deeper-look-into-magic-kingdom.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-989594410547040634Wed, 24 Feb 2010 18:26:00 +00002010-02-24T13:36:36.965-05:00Disney DiningReviewsLast trip we spent a lot of time in Tomorrowland; between the Buzz Lightyear ride and the Speedway, it felt like we practically lived in that area! <a href="http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?Restaurant.ID=152" target="_blank">Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe</a> is in Tomorrowland, it's a quick service restaurant so we decided to grab lunch there one day. It was the best decision we ever made!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4VaPnF1e8I/AAAAAAAAFbE/w4k2bs6s4Ek/s1600-h/Rays1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4VaPnF1e8I/AAAAAAAAFbE/w4k2bs6s4Ek/s400/Rays1.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4VaRihS1lI/AAAAAAAAFbM/BMw4_1SIEpE/s1600-h/Rays2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4VaRihS1lI/AAAAAAAAFbM/BMw4_1SIEpE/s400/Rays2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?Restaurant.ID=152" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit</span></a></div><br /> When we were there last year we decided to eat outside, it was pretty crowded inside, but now I know why...THE FOOD! There is something for everyone at Ray's and I mean EVERYONE! Soups, salads, sandwiches, chicken, BBQ chicken, burgers and yummy desserts.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://allears.net/menu/men_cr.htm" target="_blank">View Full Menu</a></div><br /> The inside of the restaurant is designed like the lobby of a spaceship and is separated into 3 different ordering sections: <br /> <ul><li>Bay 1 - BBQ Chicken and Ribs </li> <li>Bay 2 - Hot Dogs and Burgers </li> <li>Bay 3 - Double Cheese Burgers and Salads</li> </ul>While this is a nice idea, it's kind of a pain when everyone in your party wants something different because you then have to get in different lines. There is limited seating inside as well. Those are my only 2 'complaints' because really it was an awesome experience.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4VuvyLxANI/AAAAAAAAFbU/wyqeTMItYDc/s1600-h/sonny_eclipse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4VuvyLxANI/AAAAAAAAFbU/wyqeTMItYDc/s400/sonny_eclipse.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> Let's not forget Sonny Eclipse, the animatronic lounge singer. We did not get a chance to be entertained by Sonny since we ate outside but hey, maybe this year ;)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-989594410547040634?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/AHGfe7nuWck" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/AHGfe7nuWck/cosmic-rays-starlight-cafe.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/02/cosmic-rays-starlight-cafe.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-5009822228322357232Sun, 21 Feb 2010 14:17:00 +00002010-02-21T09:21:46.173-05:00Disney Dining<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4Eu9j8FgbI/AAAAAAAAFZk/U6THIbIQbro/s1600-h/DSCN0159-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4Eu9j8FgbI/AAAAAAAAFZk/U6THIbIQbro/s400/DSCN0159-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> In <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/p/2008-trip.html"target="_blank">2008</a> we used the basic dining plan and we were disappointed with it. You can read about that here: <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/04/is-disney-dining-plan-worth-it.html" target="_blank">Is the Disney Dining Plan Worth It?</a> Even though we didn't like the way it worked out, because I am lazy I just went ahead and planned for it again for our <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/p/2009-trip.html"target="_blank">2009</a> trip. It was just easier to pay a flat rate for food and be done with it. In the end though, we still paid extra money, <i>again</i>.<br /> <br /> In 2009 appetizers still were not part of the basic dining plan, nor was gratuity so for just about every meal we paid something out of pocket. The plan did allow for a dessert for each table service. You know what would be cool? If you could swap appetizers for desserts. We don't usually want a dessert with every table service but sometimes like to have appetizers. Oh well, I suppose it wouldn't be worth it to Disney as I am sure an appetizer probably cost more than a dessert.<br /> <br /> This year, I see the basic plan includes appetizers - for CHILDREN ages 3-9. What the heck?<br /> <br /> <b>1 Table-Service Meal</b><br /> <i>Each table-service meal includes:</i><br /> <br /> * 1 appetizer (<b>Guests ages 3-9 only</b>)<br /> * 1 entrée<br /> * 1 dessert (lunch and dinner only)<br /> * 1 juice (breakfast only)<br /> * 1 single-serving, non-alcoholic beverage<br /> <br /> Or<br /> <br /> * 1 full buffet<br /> <br /> <b>1 Quick-Service Meal</b><br /> <i>Each quick-service meal includes:</i><br /> <br /> * 1 entrée<br /> * 1 dessert (lunch and dinner only)<br /> * 1 juice (breakfast only)<br /> * 1 single-serving, non-alcoholic beverage<br /> <br /> <b>1 Snack</b><br /> <br /> So what's with appetizers for kids only? Now, I am talking about the basic plan because that is what we used. (I realize the deluxe plan does include an appetizer for adults.)<br /> <br /> The price for 2010, basic dining plan varies by season; $41.99 or $46.99 per night per adult, $11.99 or $12.99 per night per child, depending on the time of year. You'd THINK that's a good deal. Heck, $42 a day for 1 meal, 1 quick service and 1 snack and you get 1 Resort-Refillable Drink Mug Per Person. The problem? Well for us, we felt compelled to have a sit down meal every day, to get our money's worth. If you've ever been to Disney you know that it's tough to plan days around meals and it's sometimes easier to just grab a burger or a sandwich at a quick service place.<br /> <br /> <b>The Cons:&nbsp;</b><br /> <ul><li>not much flexibility</li> <li> you get what’s included, with<strong> no substitutions</strong> - We really didn’t want two desserts each day (one with our quick service lunch and one with our table service dinner). In fact, we typically don't want dessert at all. We ordered them because they came with the meal and we paid for them but we prefer appetizers, which aren’t included.</li> <li>you <strong>can’t “carry over” unused portions of a meal credit</strong> – you can’t get the entrée and drink at a quick service restaurant, then get the dessert later at a different restaurant.&nbsp; </li> <li>can be stressful because you can find yourself planning your vacation around meals.</li> </ul><b>The Pros:</b><br /> <ul><li>paying ahead makes things easy - you don't have to worry bout the price of your meal. If you eat at an upscale restaurant, you can order the $30 entrée without concern.</li> </ul>In a nutshell, it depends on your style of eating. Normally we like a big breakfast and then just graze during the day, we don't even necessarily need a quick service meal (or a 'lunch') during the day. We sometimes like a nice dinner to finish off the day but then again, depending on our plans for the day, dinner might just be a burger and fries, topped off with some ice cream! <br /> <br /> <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/media/wdw_nextgen/CoreCatalog/WaltDisneyWorld/en_us/PDF/2010Dining.pdf"target="_blank">2010 Dining Plan</a><br /> <br /> This year we won't be using the dining plan. This is due not only to past experience but also to us now being DVC members. We plan on having breakfasts in the villa and we will also have plenty of snacks with us as well.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-5009822228322357232?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/L3mcAfLUZ88" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/L3mcAfLUZ88/is-disney-dining-plan-worth-it-part-2.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/02/is-disney-dining-plan-worth-it-part-2.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-7500524858969542994Sat, 20 Feb 2010 21:19:00 +00002010-02-20T16:24:05.565-05:00WDW BasicsBack in March of 2009 I posted about the <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/03/best-time-to-visit-disney-world.html" target="_blank">Best Time to Visit Disney World</a> and well, here it is almost a year later and my opinion has not changed. Now, we are going to be visiting in October this year so maybe I will change my mind?<br /> <br /> I live in Pennsylvania so by the time April rolls around I am so ready to be somewhere warm. We've had <a href="http://www.witchymama.com/2010/02/remember-when-i-said-we-were-getting.html" target="_blank">horrible snow storms</a> this month and well, while you'd think this is when I would want to go to Florida and enjoy the sunshine I gotta tell ya, I would NOT want to come home to snow!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4BQJODGK-I/AAAAAAAAFY8/rX1RkpFtDHM/s1600-h/PolyBeach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S4BQJODGK-I/AAAAAAAAFY8/rX1RkpFtDHM/s400/PolyBeach.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/matthew_hull/2637059179/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></span></div><br /> The above picture is of the beach at the Polynesian Resort. The Poly, as it is affectionately called, is a wonderful deluxe resort and the place we have always stayed.<br /> <br /> Our 'standard' Disney vacation time frame is somewhere between the last week of April and the 3rd week of May. This time is perfect, to us at least, because it's after all the Spring Break hoopla, after Easter Break and before Memorial Day weekend. Seems like a lull - a time in-between when most people visit.<br /> <br /> Personally, I LOVE this time of year. The weather is perfect. Warm but not HOT, very little rain and perfect sleeping temperatures! Of course, this is just my opinion. <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/p/2009-trip.html" target="_blank">Last year</a> by the time we had to head home the temperature was already starting to reach the mid-90's, so yea, that was reaching HOT status for me. Also, I can't forget to mention Epcot's <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/03/epcot-flower-and-garden-festival-2009.html" target="_blank">Flower and Garden Festival</a> - we LOVE seeing all the <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/04/disney-world-in-april-and-may.html" target="_blank">beautiful flowers and topiary</a> all over Epcot!<br /> <br /> Now that we're DVC members we definitely want to give other times of the year a chance so we shall see what October brings!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-7500524858969542994?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/eWFsDxf06Ts" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/eWFsDxf06Ts/disney-vacation-in-april-and-may.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/02/disney-vacation-in-april-and-may.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-6731262321164431091Sun, 14 Feb 2010 18:40:00 +00002010-02-14T14:38:01.941-05:00Disney DiningReviews<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i824.photobucket.com/albums/zz169/DisneyFamily13/Picture3-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://i824.photobucket.com/albums/zz169/DisneyFamily13/Picture3-1.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /> Recent discussion at the <a href="http://www.wdwforgrownups.com/forum/" target="_blank">Walt Disney World (for grownups) Form</a> prompted me to whip up this post. There has been some debate on whether or not eating at the Coral reef is not only worth your time but your money as well. I say no - we ate there last trip and were very disappointed.<br /> <br /> Here is the review:<br /> <br /> After experiencing the Nemo ride and checking out the aquarium for a bit, we decided to head over to the <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/dining/coral-reef-restaurant/" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Coral Reef</a> restaurant. We were a bit early but it was fine, we just sat outside the restaurant for a bit and relaxed.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v55/MoonStorm/Disney%202009/DSCN0335-1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v55/MoonStorm/Disney%202009/DSCN0335-1.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 338px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i824.photobucket.com/albums/zz169/DisneyFamily13/coralreef1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i824.photobucket.com/albums/zz169/DisneyFamily13/coralreef1-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> We had been looking forward to this meal for so long. I will admit, when we got inside I was a bit surprised, it wasn't the atmosphere I expected.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v55/MoonStorm/Disney%202009/DSCN0347-1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v55/MoonStorm/Disney%202009/DSCN0347-1.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 338px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br /> It was dreary inside. The dark colors coupled with dim lighting made everything seem drab. I realize it was supposed to mimic being in the ocean and well, obviously the ocean isn't bright and colorful...or is it? Ha!<br /> <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;">This is where we sat:<br /> <br /> <a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v55/MoonStorm/Disney%202009/Picture1-1.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v55/MoonStorm/Disney%202009/Picture1-1.png" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 129px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 318px;" /></a></div>Wasn't a bad seat but of course we would have loved to have been closer to the aquarium. The kids were fairly well behaved. We didn't order an appetizer as we had the dining plan and well, appetizers aren't included in the plan.<br /> <br /> The entrees were disappointing. The portions were very small. Now, maybe because I am used to larger portions, what we were given might have been what a 'normal' portion should be? That's fine but when you have a child who is under 3 and is not able to be on the meal plan, you are told you can share entrees with them. I really didn't have anything to share with Wyatt so I wound up having to order something for him and paying out of pocket.<br /> <br /> On the bright side, the food was tasty but for the portions, I think it was overpriced. I got Seared Sterling Salmon - with ratatouille <span style="font-weight: bold;">$23.99</span>, Fawn got Wild Mushroom Lasagna - roasted wild mushrooms, wilted arugula and spinach, fortina, parmesan, mascarpone and ricotta cheese, rustic tomato ragout <span style="font-weight: bold;">$16.99</span> and CJ got Grilled New York Strip Steak - served with roasted potatoes, watercress and tomatoes tossed in caramelized shallot vinaigrette <span style="font-weight: bold;">$30.99</span><br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;">For dessert, I ordered the famous 'Chocolate Wave' - served with brandied cherries <span style="font-weight: bold;">$7.99</span><br /> <br /> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/SjehCyAtAYI/AAAAAAAAEz8/NxKXMEnQBkg/s1600-h/Picture+3.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347920151682285954" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/SjehCyAtAYI/AAAAAAAAEz8/NxKXMEnQBkg/s400/Picture+3.png" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 142px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a></div><br /> It was yummy but wow, $7.99?! Oh well, eating here was an experience I will always remember but I know we will not go back. There are so many other restaurants we would love to try and of course, we have our favorites so the Coral Reef was a once and done.<br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>THE FLIP SIDE </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Gray, author of <a href="http://solofriendly.com/">SoloFriendly.com</a>, left a comment that I feel is worth adding to this post:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="js-singleCommentText jsk-ItemBodyText">You've got a good point here. I really enjoyed my experience here, but that's because I'm a solo adult. I would have to say that this restaurant is really better suited to adults dining without children than those dining with them.While the aquarium is a big draw for kids, it becomes difficult to contain children sometimes who want to run up to the glass and see the fish. Which then bothers people dining next to the glass. Or you wind up disappointed because the kids can't see as well as they want because they're sitting across the room. Whereas I was in the middle of the room, and that was a fine view for me. And as you say, the portion sizes are what I would call "normal", certainly not the usual Disneysized portions, so while perfect for my appetite, I wouldn't have been able to share it with anyone without walking away hungry. But they cost the same as Disneysized portions, so not the best bargain for a family. What you found to be "dreary" decor, I found to be typical adult restaurant colors and soothing, dim lighting. Not your typical Disney themed restaurant with bright colors that would appeal to families with children. <br /> <br /> In a way, I wish Disney would categorize their restaurants a bit more to help guide visitors (which restaurants are appropriate for families with children, and which are best for groups without children), so it's easier to choose which restaurants will be best for you. I know this isn't the case for you, but many families will only go to WDW once in their lifetimes, and I'm sure they want to make sure it's the best possible experience without any disappointments. <br /> &nbsp; </span></div></blockquote><br /> Thank you, Gray!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-6731262321164431091?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/GYzDXihTAC8" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/GYzDXihTAC8/coral-reef-restaurant-review-walt.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/02/coral-reef-restaurant-review-walt.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-5501599780676839374Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:21:00 +00002010-02-08T19:27:41.658-05:00Magic KingdomWDW '09 Trip Planning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S278pLHOncI/AAAAAAAAFXU/Y74en1Ge3ss/s1600-h/Riverboat+MK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S278pLHOncI/AAAAAAAAFXU/Y74en1Ge3ss/s400/Riverboat+MK.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/philip-rosie/396571333/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></span></div><br /> I have not been on the <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/magic-kingdom/attractions/liberty-square-riverboat/" target="_blank">Liberty Square Riverboat</a> since I was in, I think, 3rd grade! I've been trying to think of rides and attractions that would be a wonderful experience for my grandmother on our upcoming trip and I really think she will enjoy a 20 minute ride on this legendary riverboat!<br /> <br /> <blockquote>The attraction is named Liberty Square Riverboat, but the ship itself is named the Liberty Belle. While the ship looks straight out of the 19th century, it was actually built in a dry dock on Disney property for the 1971 opening of Walt Disney World Resort.<br /> The 17-minute trip is around Tom Sawyer Island; the Liberty Belle is a faithful reproduction of the highly ornate vessels that proudly ferried people and cargo up and down the mighty Mississippi River. An actual working steam engine turns the massive paddlewheel that propels the ship forward.</blockquote><br /> I think my kids will love this one too!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-5501599780676839374?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/Uj-28s82Xcg" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/Uj-28s82Xcg/liberty-square-riverboat.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/02/liberty-square-riverboat.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-6419804720255241792Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:57:00 +00002010-02-03T09:59:59.683-05:00WDW '10 Trip PlanningI can't wait to see Cinderella's Castle! It is such a beautiful sight!<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S2mNei4YUqI/AAAAAAAAFW8/jFqqOF6faRc/s1600-h/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S2mNei4YUqI/AAAAAAAAFW8/jFqqOF6faRc/s640/Picture+1.png" width="420" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pasant/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></span></div><br /> We are UNDER 3 months until Disney! My head is spinning! There are so many little details I need to go over. Maybe if I make a list I will be able to tackle these tasks easier!<br /> <ul><li>Call Disney and book Magical Express transportation for Fawn and Cherie</li> <li>Sign up for Owner's Locker</li> <li>Make a list of all the things I want to take along to leave in our locker</li> <li>Purchase hopper tickets for grandma and Fawn - is this better to do when we get there?</li> <li>Purchase annual passes and Tables of Wonderland card - again, is this better to do when we get there?</li> <li>Sign up on Garden Grocer&nbsp;</li> <li>Make a list of food items to purchase from Garden Grocer</li> <li>Look into booking a rental van for the trip (we are NOT driving our own vehicle)</li> </ul>What am I forgetting? HELP!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-6419804720255241792?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/SVvRABr4rwQ" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/SVvRABr4rwQ/last-minute-planning.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/02/last-minute-planning.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-1822653963508300849Fri, 29 Jan 2010 15:09:00 +00002010-01-29T10:12:56.137-05:00WDW '10 Trip PlanningEvery time I plan a Disney vacation SOMETHING seems to rear it's ugly head.<br /> <ul><li>In 2008 my grandma got sick while we were there and <a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2008/06/walt-disney-world-vacation-08-day-4.html">wound up in Celebration Hospital</a> for the last 2 days of the trip.</li> <li>In 2009 my mother in law was facing a <a href="http://www.witchymama.com/2009/02/results-are-in.html">possibility of breast cancer</a>; right up until the point we were set to go on the trip we didn't know the state of her health. Thankfully whatever they noticed on the mammogram is getting smaller. However, she does get checked again in February...</li> <li>2010 - CJ has had some health issues and the latest, which would definitely affect his enjoyment - <a href="http://www.dudeindisney.com/2010/01/next-trip-is-in-april.html">2 herniated discs</a>, seem to healing up nicely. My grandma is going with us for a few days and so far she is in decent health.</li> </ul>Could it be that this upcoming trip may actually be stress free? Could it be that we will all go and enjoy ourselves without worry? I sure hope so! I cannot wait to see this:<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S2L2SKcq6mI/AAAAAAAAFVk/rSDf8Z4rS2k/s1600-h/Walt+Disney+World+Entrance+Sign.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S2L2SKcq6mI/AAAAAAAAFVk/rSDf8Z4rS2k/s400/Walt+Disney+World+Entrance+Sign.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21652490@N06/2273908195/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit</span></a></div><br /> Gives me goosebumps every time I see that sign! Only about 3 months and I'll see that sign! Yay!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-1822653963508300849?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/e4tDtWqfxpU" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/e4tDtWqfxpU/so-excited-i-could-cry.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/01/so-excited-i-could-cry.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-6509579031783240366Wed, 20 Jan 2010 14:58:00 +00002010-01-20T10:03:04.534-05:00WDW '10 Trip PlanningOur next Disney vacation is getting to closer and closer! Cherie booked her flight and I booked CJ's mom's flight and my grandma's flight home! Can't wait to ride the monorail into Epcot (my favorite theme park)<br /> <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1cQSrrQmXI/AAAAAAAAFUs/eJ_nYAnU1UQ/s1600-h/3797611783_0337254f95.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1cQSrrQmXI/AAAAAAAAFUs/eJ_nYAnU1UQ/s400/3797611783_0337254f95.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/adelmann/3797611783/sizes/m/in/set-72157612446712285/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit</span></a><br /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div>It's going to be a 'manic Monday' with people coming and going but it's worth it! So here's the 'schedule' for that day:<br /> <br /> * Grandma's plane leaves Orlando at 1:37pm so either CJ or I have to snag a cab and go to the airport with her. I would rather CJ take her but she wants me to take her. <br /> <br /> * Fawn's plane arrives in Orlando at 12:46pm so she probably won't be at the resort until around 2pm - if all goes well.<br /> <br /> * Cherie's plane arrives in Orlando at 2:43pm so she probably won't be to the resort until around 4pm - again, if all goes well and the plane is on time.<br /> <br /> This means CJ or I leave the resort with grandma at around 11am. I spoke with Orlando airport personnel and one of us can go through security and sit with grandma until she boards her plane if the security levels are not too high that day.<br /> <br /> So all in all everyone should be settled by 5pm, I hope. This is definitely a wasted day but at least while all the commotion is going on some of us will be able to enjoy the resort, or maybe the kids will nap.<br /> <br /> For the evening, my thought was to go to the Boardwalk just to check it out and maybe grab something to eat, then head to Beach Club for ice cream at Beaches N Cream.<br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Any other suggestions?</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-6509579031783240366?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/WkvJMkaQo8w" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/WkvJMkaQo8w/flights-are-booked.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/01/flights-are-booked.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-6984981711657414070Sat, 16 Jan 2010 14:56:00 +00002010-01-17T13:38:22.747-05:00WDW '10 Trip PlanningI FINALLY have our itinerary finalized! I had to do some rearranging to accommodate some unexpected snafus, but I did it and I did it well! Yay! Ready? Here we go!<br /><br />Driving down from Pa to Fl will take 2 days, it will be me, CJ, 3 kids and grandma<br /><br />Arrive <span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday, 4/30</span> and check in at Bay Lake Tower<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HUi9E7ThI/AAAAAAAAFQc/HRlMPN-ZtOw/s1600-h/4152576591_cc05a58edb.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HUi9E7ThI/AAAAAAAAFQc/HRlMPN-ZtOw/s400/4152576591_cc05a58edb.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427352722934025746" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32852096@N05/4152576591/">Photo Credit</a></span><br /></div><br />* stand in room mesmerized for like hours, snap out of it (sort of) and unpack. Get our groceries sent to us. We will be ordering groceries online at <a href="http://gardengrocer.com/">Garden Grocer</a> and will have them delivered the morning we arrive so they will be there when we get there.<br /><br />* head to Epcot<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HVhPbIhQI/AAAAAAAAFQk/kMqalJ6nwyk/s1600-h/Picture+1.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 317px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HVhPbIhQI/AAAAAAAAFQk/kMqalJ6nwyk/s400/Picture+1.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427353793010894082" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pasant/3012383475/">Photo Credit </a></span><br /></div><br />* dinner at <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/dining/biergarten-restaurant/" target="_blank">Biergarten</a> in Germany at 6:30<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HW7Eimy0I/AAAAAAAAFQs/Z6xJPA7rG20/s1600-h/4272601765_75a56c860c.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HW7Eimy0I/AAAAAAAAFQs/Z6xJPA7rG20/s400/4272601765_75a56c860c.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427355336277674818" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/36085098@N00/4272601765/">Photo Credit</a></span><br /></div><br />* Enjoy Epcot at a slow pace, stay for IllumiNations fireworks<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HXWMgFwPI/AAAAAAAAFQ0/0y0MyLshTjY/s1600-h/3043760419_a25ffb950a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HXWMgFwPI/AAAAAAAAFQ0/0y0MyLshTjY/s400/3043760419_a25ffb950a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427355802271072498" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/expressmonorail/3043760419/">Photo Credit</a></span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Saturday, 5/1</span><br /><br />* breakfast in room<br /><br />* check out pool<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HYKz7C7DI/AAAAAAAAFQ8/CiZcbWMhPQU/s1600-h/3767804060_dfb683714f.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HYKz7C7DI/AAAAAAAAFQ8/CiZcbWMhPQU/s400/3767804060_dfb683714f.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427356706206313522" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/disneydena/3767804060/">Photo Credit</a></span><br /></div><br />* enjoy resort/relax<br /><br />* head to the <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/beach-club-resort/" target="_blank">Beach Club</a> (by our own vehicle) - we've never been to BC, can't wait to check it out!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HaL8yTpuI/AAAAAAAAFRE/3bg6ZC73ub8/s1600-h/beach_club_photo.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 180px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HaL8yTpuI/AAAAAAAAFRE/3bg6ZC73ub8/s400/beach_club_photo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427358924788704994" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/09/disneys-beach-club-resort.html">See more Beach Club Resort photos</a><br /></div><br />* dinner at <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/beach-club-resort/dining/cape-may-cafe/" target="_blank">Cape May Cafe</a> at 6:50 - this is just for grandma as she REALLY wants to check out the clam bake. My cousin's husband, Greg, will be in the area so he is going to come by to visit and have dinner with us :]<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1Ha9CM9QeI/AAAAAAAAFRM/Cz2-fkiwkVk/s1600-h/Picture+3.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 143px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1Ha9CM9QeI/AAAAAAAAFRM/Cz2-fkiwkVk/s400/Picture+3.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427359768056250850" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/beach-club-resort/dining/cape-may-cafe/">Photo Credit</a></span><br /></div><br /><br />* Go back to Bay Lake Tower to watch Wishes from either the room or the '<a href="http://land.allears.net/blogs/jackspence/2009/08/bay_lake_tower_part_two_1.html" target="_blank">Top of the World</a>' lounge - if we can make it back in time!<br /><p align="center"><object height="315" width="500"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/pVCnfazVx_4&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0xcc2550&amp;color2=0xe87a9f&amp;hd=1&amp;border=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/pVCnfazVx_4&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0xcc2550&amp;color2=0xe87a9f&amp;hd=1&amp;border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="315" width="500"></embed></object></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.attractionsmagazine.com/blog/2009/09/07/full-hd-video-wishes-fireworks-show-from-atop-bay-lake-tower/">More information of BLT's Top of the World Lounge</a><br /></div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Sunday, 5/2</span><br /><br />* breakfast in room<br /><br />* Magic Kingdom day<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1Hel525uuI/AAAAAAAAFRc/c-mlug3bXRQ/s1600-h/2689632910_2f0cd156ce.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 273px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1Hel525uuI/AAAAAAAAFRc/c-mlug3bXRQ/s400/2689632910_2f0cd156ce.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427363768725781218" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/expressmonorail/2689632910/">Photo Credit</a></span><br /></div><br />* Lunch at <a href="http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?Restaurant.ID=152" target="_blank">Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe</a> - CJ's favorite place to eat!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HgciZ0nCI/AAAAAAAAFRk/XMIpzuUVvh0/s1600-h/mk-cosmicrays_edited.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HgciZ0nCI/AAAAAAAAFRk/XMIpzuUVvh0/s400/mk-cosmicrays_edited.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427365806834228258" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.greenespace.com/wedding/honeymoon.htm">Photo Credit</a></span><br /></div><br />* Olivia wants to get a Princess makeover at <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/tours-and-experiences/bibbidi-bobbidi-boutique/" target="_blank">Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique </a> so we'll do that after lunch, appointment is for 2pm.<br /><br />* Have a lazy day at MK or return to BLT to rest - depends on how everyone feels.<br /><br />* Dinner at <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/grand-floridian-resort-and-spa/dining/1900-park-fare/" target="_blank">1900 Park Fare</a> at 6:25 - Olivia can see Cinderella and the Prince while she is in her gown!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1Hh-RmyuhI/AAAAAAAAFSM/caggMU9gqFQ/s1600-h/DSCN0513-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 314px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1Hh-RmyuhI/AAAAAAAAFSM/caggMU9gqFQ/s400/DSCN0513-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427367485952408082" border="0" /></a><br />* Watch Wishes from either the room or the '<a href="http://land.allears.net/blogs/jackspence/2009/08/bay_lake_tower_part_two_1.html" target="_blank">Top of the World</a>' lounge!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HinExAeDI/AAAAAAAAFSU/r8fNFUBtcd0/s1600-h/3155746863_d227383739.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HinExAeDI/AAAAAAAAFSU/r8fNFUBtcd0/s400/3155746863_d227383739.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427368186880227378" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tombricker/3155746863/">Photo Credit</a></span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday, 5/3</span><br /><br />* take grandma to the airport - her flight leaves at 1:37pm<br /><br />My MIL Fawn and my best friend Cherie will be arriving this day. I am guessing this day is good to use as a down day. One thing we really want to do is visit other resorts so I think this may be a good day to do just that.<br /><br />* Check out <a href="http://allears.net/menu/menu_bc.htm" target="_blank">Beaches N Cream</a> Soda Shop at the Beach Club - grab something to eat and then ice cream YUM! Maybe we'll share a 'kitchen sink' heheheee<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HcKbR_1jI/AAAAAAAAFRU/yiRb7vPskHY/s1600-h/2480618452_ca671fd0c5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 298px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HcKbR_1jI/AAAAAAAAFRU/yiRb7vPskHY/s400/2480618452_ca671fd0c5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427361097638204978" border="0" /></a><br /><br />*Head over to the <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/disneys-boardwalk/" target="_blank">Boardwalk Resort</a> and check it out.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HjTtZB6tI/AAAAAAAAFSc/cppLVhIG2FI/s1600-h/Picture+4.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 218px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HjTtZB6tI/AAAAAAAAFSc/cppLVhIG2FI/s400/Picture+4.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427368953699756754" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pasant/3640690357/in/set-72157605538891269/">Photo Credit</a></span><br /></div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday, 5/4</span><br /><br />* Up early - quick breakfast in room<br /><br />* Head to <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/animal-kingdom/" target="_blank">Animal Kingdom</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HkDO-mgpI/AAAAAAAAFSk/29FF4Rgb7gg/s1600-h/2642460745_6b1ecdc665.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HkDO-mgpI/AAAAAAAAFSk/29FF4Rgb7gg/s400/2642460745_6b1ecdc665.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427369770169565842" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/e_phots/2642460745/">Photo Credit</a></span><br /></div><br />* SOMEONE better ride <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/animal-kingdom/attractions/expedition-everest/">Expedition Everest</a> with me!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HlemKwPtI/AAAAAAAAFS0/8TAqa5RJ24s/s1600-h/Picture+5.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 288px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HlemKwPtI/AAAAAAAAFS0/8TAqa5RJ24s/s400/Picture+5.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427371339762646738" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/fodw/508013499/"><span style="font-size:78%;">Photo Credit</span></a><br /></div><br />* Back to BLT around 3ish - maybe; depends on how much fun we're having!<br /><br />* Relax, check out pool or nap - if we go back early<br /><br />* Head to the Polynesian Resort - we LOVE the Polynesian Resort, we always stayed at the Poly, until now, since we are DVC members, so we HAVE to visit the Poly at least once!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HkeatrNTI/AAAAAAAAFSs/2SOeRiVu3EQ/s1600-h/3187761105_38a2dc1389.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 227px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HkeatrNTI/AAAAAAAAFSs/2SOeRiVu3EQ/s400/3187761105_38a2dc1389.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427370237176263986" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffbpictures/3187761105/">Photo Credit</a></span><br /></div><br />Dinner at <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/polynesian-resort/dining/ohanas/" target="_blank">Ohana's</a> at 6:30. We have always eaten breakfast there so this will be our first dinner experience.<br /><br />* Watch Wishes from the Top of the World Lounge at BLT<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday, 5/5</span><br /><br />* breakfast in the room<br /><br />* <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/hollywood-studios/" target="_blank">Disney's Hollywood Studios</a> for the day (maybe arrive around 10am)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1Hm4MlUgTI/AAAAAAAAFS8/srBJs1zmm0A/s1600-h/Picture+6.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 303px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1Hm4MlUgTI/AAAAAAAAFS8/srBJs1zmm0A/s400/Picture+6.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427372879082979634" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toshio1/2668330979/"><span style="font-size:78%;">Photo Credit</span></a><br /></div><br />* Early dinner (4 pm) at <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/hollywood-studios/dining/sci-fi-dine-in-theater/" target="_blank">Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater</a> - we weren't too impressed last time we were there but we'll give it a whirl again.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HnaPlJ4wI/AAAAAAAAFTE/95CJZlyn7T8/s1600-h/Picture+7.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 257px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HnaPlJ4wI/AAAAAAAAFTE/95CJZlyn7T8/s400/Picture+7.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427373464003142402" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thhphotography/4226184538/"><span style="font-size:78%;">Photo Credit</span></a><br /></div><br />* SOMEONE better ride the <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/hollywood-studios/attractions/twilight-zone-tower-of-terror/">Tower of Terror</a> with me!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HoHnEE-uI/AAAAAAAAFTM/NMGJUEFliCc/s1600-h/2488744269_21d72404d5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 265px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HoHnEE-uI/AAAAAAAAFTM/NMGJUEFliCc/s400/2488744269_21d72404d5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427374243400973026" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/expressmonorail/2488744269/"><span style="font-size:78%;">Photo Credit</span></a><br /></div><br />* head over to see <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/hollywood-studios/entertainment/fantasmic/" target="_blank">Fantasmic</a> - the 9pm show<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HosPOynEI/AAAAAAAAFTU/MPMmyU1NEHU/s1600-h/2783538878_acf739d2ba.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HosPOynEI/AAAAAAAAFTU/MPMmyU1NEHU/s400/2783538878_acf739d2ba.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427374872658615362" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/expressmonorail/2783538878/"><span style="font-size:78%;">Photo Credit</span></a><br /></div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday, 5/6</span><br /><br />* breakfast in the room<br /><br />* Magic Kingdom<br /><br />* back to the room for relaxing and something to eat<br /><br />* Epcot for the evening. This way we are not at MK ALL day or Epcot ALL day.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HpjsVJ4lI/AAAAAAAAFTc/Y-q7hkaoOzk/s1600-h/Picture+8.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 285px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HpjsVJ4lI/AAAAAAAAFTc/Y-q7hkaoOzk/s400/Picture+8.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427375825362739794" border="0" /></a><br />* dinner at <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/dining/san-angel-inn/" target="_blank">San Angel Inn</a> in Mexico at 6:30<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HqXByZsHI/AAAAAAAAFTk/DfQmcNG63Ns/s1600-h/2159979561_2859b17992.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HqXByZsHI/AAAAAAAAFTk/DfQmcNG63Ns/s400/2159979561_2859b17992.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427376707295883378" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jnad/2159979561/"><span style="font-size:78%;">Photo Credit</span></a><br /></div><br />* Stay for IlumiNations<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday, 5/7</span><br /><br />Last full day - free day.<br /><br />* breakfast at <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/contemporary-resort/dining/chef-mickeys/">Chef Mickey's</a> at 10am<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HrGEWowiI/AAAAAAAAFTs/kQ_a4BPaq8s/s1600-h/DSCN0554-1-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1HrGEWowiI/AAAAAAAAFTs/kQ_a4BPaq8s/s400/DSCN0554-1-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427377515438588450" border="0" /></a><br />* CJ's mom leaves this day. She will be leaving the resort around 1:30pm or so<br /><br />* after Fawn leaves maybe head to <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/downtown-disney/">Downtown Disney</a> to shop<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1Hr7_FCdOI/AAAAAAAAFT0/kGvGB56837Y/s1600-h/Picture+9.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 147px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1Hr7_FCdOI/AAAAAAAAFT0/kGvGB56837Y/s400/Picture+9.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427378441735533794" border="0" /></a><a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/downtown-disney/">See More Photos</a><br /></div><br />* Lunch at Earl of Sandwich<br /><br />* One last hurrah at Magic Kingdom - eat at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe again, just for CJ<br /><br />* MK for the evening to see <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/magic-kingdom/entertainment/spectro-magic-parade/" target="_blank">SpectroMagic Parade</a> and then Wishes in the park.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1Hspa6ph_I/AAAAAAAAFT8/u513VK3qQho/s1600-h/Picture+10.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 239px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S1Hspa6ph_I/AAAAAAAAFT8/u513VK3qQho/s400/Picture+10.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427379222302263282" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/benhewitt/3419172866/"><span style="font-size:78%;">Photo Credit</span></a></div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday, 5/8</span><br /><br />* Cherie flies home - her plane leaves around 9am. We drive back so we may take our time getting on the road.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-6984981711657414070?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/3vNkxr6ysx8" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/3vNkxr6ysx8/disney-vacation-itinerary-for-spring.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/01/disney-vacation-itinerary-for-spring.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-4238341643652171879Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:17:00 +00002010-01-11T09:00:24.608-05:00Hollywood StudiosWDW '10 Trip PlanningEntertainmentEven though Wyatt was shy with characters in 2008 and afraid of some of the rides where it was dark in places when we were in Disney in 2009, I really want to see <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/hollywood-studios/entertainment/fantasmic/"target="_blank">Fantasmic</a> on this upcoming trip. I am hoping he won't be scared BUT if he is scared for other shows during our trip I will be able to tell whether going to Fantasmic is a good idea or not.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S0sspu9tJ0I/AAAAAAAAFQQ/Om9UDieGr_I/s1600-h/Picture+4.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 319px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S0sspu9tJ0I/AAAAAAAAFQQ/Om9UDieGr_I/s400/Picture+4.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425479271590995778" border="0" /></a>I at least want to make sure we have the option to see the show but when I made our dining reservations the schedule for Fantasmic in May was not out so I had to guess and well, I guessed wrong. I had us going to Epcot on Wed. May 5th and dinner at San Angel Inn at 6:30 and then we were set to go to Disney's Hollywood Studios on Thurs. May 6th and dinner at the Sci-Fi Dine In Theater.<br /><br />Of course Fantasmic is on Wednesday that week, not Thursday! I really didn't think we'd be able to eat at San Angel in Mexico at 6:30pm and then make it to DHS to get in line for Fantasmic by 8-8:30pm so I called Disney Dining and was able to switch the days!<br /><br />I am STOKED! I am crossing my fingers Wyatt won't be afraid and we will be able to see Fantasmic!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-4238341643652171879?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/ie5_IWeVFD8" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/ie5_IWeVFD8/want-to-see-fantasmic.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/01/want-to-see-fantasmic.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-8430868560631811049Thu, 07 Jan 2010 21:12:00 +00002010-01-07T16:53:19.640-05:00WDW '10 Trip PlanningFor the last 2 trips, the Polynesian Resort has been our 'home away from home' - it is a breathtaking resort.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S0ZV4aw0yII/AAAAAAAAFPo/gkaEw9KCL5o/s1600-h/Picture+1.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 238px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S0ZV4aw0yII/AAAAAAAAFPo/gkaEw9KCL5o/s400/Picture+1.png" alt="Rarotonga Longhouse" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424117228959484034" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/96525092@N00/3268442332/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a><br /></span></div><br />This year will be our first time staying as DVC members at bay Lake Tower - our 'official' home resort.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S0ZW5xG2DeI/AAAAAAAAFPw/dNM9eLXb66U/s1600-h/4090975278_29d99e84f4_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S0ZW5xG2DeI/AAAAAAAAFPw/dNM9eLXb66U/s400/4090975278_29d99e84f4_o.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424118351648919010" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32852096@N05/4090975278/"><span target="_blank" style="font-size:78%;">Photo Credit<br /></span></a></div><br />Quite a difference in resorts, isn't it? We will be sure to visit the Polynesian; in fact, we have dinner reservations at <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/polynesian-resort/dining/ohanas/" target="_blank">Ohana's</a> one night.<br /><br />I made flight arrangements for my grandma and my mother in law, just waiting for my BFF to make hers and then that part is done! Less than 4 months away already!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-8430868560631811049?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/wF_A-BuU8vk" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/wF_A-BuU8vk/less-than-4-months.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/01/less-than-4-months.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-5318307910674498423Sun, 03 Jan 2010 13:53:00 +00002010-01-03T08:57:23.159-05:00Magic KingdomHolidaysSo many wonderful holidays to chose from to spend at Walt Disney World - I think my family will have to expereince them all! This is one of the best photos of Cinderella's Castle with fireworks I have seen!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S0Ch0kEHJeI/AAAAAAAAFPQ/SV-qR6NSO5A/s1600-h/HapyNewYear+Castle.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/S0Ch0kEHJeI/AAAAAAAAFPQ/SV-qR6NSO5A/s400/HapyNewYear+Castle.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422511875760268770" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/expressmonorail/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></span></div><br />At this point, we are already less than 4 months from our next family Disney vacation!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-5318307910674498423?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/ptOaj3LweL0" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/ptOaj3LweL0/happy-new-year-from-walt-disney-world.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2010/01/happy-new-year-from-walt-disney-world.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-7284510005513122379Mon, 28 Dec 2009 16:48:00 +00002009-12-28T12:02:59.081-05:00Magic KingdomI love <a href="http://twitter.com/JoePenniston"target="_blank">Joe Penniston's</a> photography. You can find him on Flickr '<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/expressmonorail/"target="_blank">expressmonorail</a>' if you want to see more photos. Occasionally I will post a favorite of mine and this photo of Cinderella's Castle is phenomenal!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/Szjj3dUKhMI/AAAAAAAAFO4/fEvBG4jcw_Y/s1600-h/2824926997_42086f7a25.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/Szjj3dUKhMI/AAAAAAAAFO4/fEvBG4jcw_Y/s400/2824926997_42086f7a25.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420332693441905858" border="0" /></a>The clouds make the castle look a bit spooky but then you see the stars and suddenly there is the 'Disney magic' - LOVE IT!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-7284510005513122379?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/PnYghSJlMf8" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/PnYghSJlMf8/cinderella-castle-spooky-magical.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/12/cinderella-castle-spooky-magical.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-452790156816170536Fri, 25 Dec 2009 19:10:00 +00002009-12-25T14:27:24.740-05:00VideosHolidaysI am not sure if I would like to be in Disney World when the Disney Parks Parade is taped or if I'd like to be there over the holiday week. I am leaning more towards being there when it's taped. Looks fun!<br /><br />Check out this video; the Magic Kingdom turned into "Toyland" using Tilt-Shift photography.<br /><br /><p align="center"><object width="480" height="315"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hLpElzUf4Xs&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0xe1600f&color2=0xfebd01&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hLpElzUf4Xs&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0xe1600f&color2=0xfebd01&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="315"></embed></object></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-452790156816170536?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/S6vmlT9xZKk" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/S6vmlT9xZKk/disney-parks-parade-2009.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/12/disney-parks-parade-2009.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-6821093804779800951Thu, 17 Dec 2009 21:06:00 +00002009-12-17T16:15:06.336-05:00WDW '10 Trip PlanningI have been so busy with work and the upcoming holidays that I've been slacking in the trip planning department. I got the major things done; trip booked, ADRs made and an itinerary outlined but that's it! Then, I saw this picture on Twitter:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/Syqe0ca19cI/AAAAAAAAFNA/ORVMo-TMEo4/s1600-h/43889097.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/Syqe0ca19cI/AAAAAAAAFNA/ORVMo-TMEo4/s400/43889097.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416316125685609922" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"> Photo Credit: <a href="http://twitter.com/wdwfacts" target="_blank">@wdwfacts </a></span><br /></div><br />That was all I needed to get motivated! I need to make a serious to-do list for myself!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-6821093804779800951?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/JMZvBybfMDo" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/JMZvBybfMDo/procrastinating.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/12/procrastinating.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7259724237820877904.post-3701663093789437466Sat, 12 Dec 2009 14:16:00 +00002009-12-12T09:22:46.061-05:00Bay Lake TowerSince we have always stayed at the Polynesian Resort, which is not far from the Contemporary Resort, we've visited the Contemporary often. However, I have never seen the entire Mickey lit up at night like this!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/SyOmH2677rI/AAAAAAAAFMQ/W6W389xwH34/s1600-h/view+of+the+Contemporary+from+Bay+Lake+Tower.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iNSnt49dMcM/SyOmH2677rI/AAAAAAAAFMQ/W6W389xwH34/s400/view+of+the+Contemporary+from+Bay+Lake+Tower.jpg" alt="View of the Contemporary From Bay Lake Tower"title="View of the Contemporary From Bay Lake Tower" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414353830961475250" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">Photo courtesy of <a href="http://twitter.com/AllEarsDeb" target="_blank">@AllEarsDeb</a><br /></span></div>I can't wait to get some of these types of photos when we go in the Spring!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7259724237820877904-3701663093789437466?l=www.familydisneyvacations.com' alt='' /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~4/tmTrRnxgXoQ" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FamilyDisneyVacations/~3/tmTrRnxgXoQ/view-of-contemporary-from-bay-lake.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra)0http://www.familydisneyvacations.com/2009/12/view-of-contemporary-from-bay-lake.html