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Steve's Jan/Feb 2012 Trip - Day 6 of 6 & Final Thoughts
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Steve Russo
Feb 10, 2012, 10:39:04 AM2/10/12
to
January 29 – February 3, 2012
Participants
• Steve –Your humble narrator.
• Barb – My bride of 39 years.
Beach Club Villas– Studio
Day Six - Friday, February 3, 2012 – Heading Home
We’re up at 6:30. Our boarding passes are in an envelope that was
slipped under our door. Remember I paid for Early Bird Check-In on both
ends of this trip? Somehow, Barb gets A20 while I get A37. Someone needs
to explain this to me. It’s not a big deal because Barb can board and
grab our seats – I’m just wondering how this happens.
There’s no room receipt on the door but I find it’s been emailed to me.
I kind of like that.
The forecast is for 80 degrees today but very windy all day (and night).
This morning we decided that we needed a little more sustenance than a
muffin or banana can deliver, so we sashayed over to the Captain’s
Grille for breakfast. (I like to sashay, or meander, when I can, and at
Disney World it’s not out of place at all, unlike say, New York, where
sashaying is frowned upon.) It’s French toast for Barb and Eggs My Way
(over easy is my way) for me - with a full carafe of some very fine
coffee. I do like this place.
We head back to our room to finish packing. Barb opts for slacks today
but I stick with shorts, tossing a jacket and a pair of Dockers into a
carry-on bag. I figure I’ll find some place to change before boarding
Disney’s Magical Express this afternoon.
We roll our luggage outside to Resort Airline Check-in and we’re all set
in about 3 minutes. I can’t tell you how much I like this service. We
then store our carry-ons (excepting Barb’s shoulder bag/purse which she
carries with her) with Baggage Services.
We make it to Epcot at 10:00, walk through and I grabbed Soarin’
FastPasses for 11:00 (Damn you, Wilmot!). We then ride Standby with a 10
minute wait.
We walked down and road the Seas with Nemo and friends and spent a few
minutes in the aquarium areas.
We then strolled through Innoventions West and East. There really was
not much to do there. The Sum of all Thrills had a long line so we
passed. There’s a new attraction in soft opening called Habit Heroes. It
looked interesting but the cast member said it wouldn’t open until this
afternoon.
Back to Soarin’. The FastPass queue was a walk on but Standby is now 40
minutes. We spent time some extra time in the queue here, just prior to
the pre-show. They had one load area completely filled while the other
two were completely empty. I’m not sure what was going on.
We also waited several minutes for the ride to start as the cast members
kept getting a seatbelt warning. Twice they asked one row of people to
unbuckle and re-buckle. Finally, we were off.
Knowing we’re flying out at 8:15 tonight, we were leaning toward a late
lunch. I have no particular love for the food options at Orlando
International. We thought about Le Cellier and walked down there but
there was a huge line at the door. Our other choices were Rose and Crown
of Les Chefs de France. I asked Barb her preference and she voted for
France so off we went.
It’s now about 12:15 and I’m looking for a table at 1:30-2:00. I walk up
to the podium and see Caroline. She’s an absolutely stunning young lady
but I’ll soon find out most of the female servers in Les Chefs are
equally beautiful. I need to find the guy that does the hiring here and
high-five him.
I explain to Caroline that I’m looking for a table between 1:30-2:00.
She says she can seat me now but can’t guarantee a table later. Really?
I thank her and move down to Morocco and we take seats on a ledge there.
Barb calls home and talks with Stephanie. All is well and she learns
that our daughters have a new-found respect for what we go through on a
daily basis as caregivers for a 96-year old. I was actually expecting
this. It’s one thing to view as an occasional guest; it’s quite another
to live it 24/7.
While Barb’s chatting with Steph, I call WDW-DINE. I’m chatting with Pam
and here’s the situation: I’m sitting 100’ from, and looking at Les
Chefs de France, while talking with Pam who’s in another time zone
altogether (never found out which one), getting a 1:30 reservation that
the girl at the podium, again 100’ away, couldn’t give me. What’s wrong
with that picture?
I booked 1:30 put had my pick of 1:10, 1:30 or 1:50.
We head to Germany and Karamel Kuche for two bags of chocolate caramel
pop corn for Michelle and Stephanie. I was able to grab an AP discount
here. As a matter of fact, I received an AP discount in almost every
store all week – including the Beach Club Marketplace. We did some
window shopping and people watching in Germany, Japan and Morocco.
I’m discovering that I’m not a huge fan of these evening flights home.
You’re homeless for too much of the day. In the future, I guess we’ll
opt for the mid-morning flight even though we’ll lose the whole day at
Disney World (at least until Southwest changes their Friday schedule).
We were by the miniature trains in Germany and we heard several people
chatting about Hidden Mickeys. One fellow had just purchased a book
(“…next door for $13.95”) and was searching for one in the train layout.
As we all helped him look, one of his party saw the three trees in the
familiar Hidden Mickey pattern. We all looked and pointed it out to others.
A woman remarked, “Geez, it’s awfully hidden.” I said, “That’s why
they’re called HIDDEN Mickeys.” Another guy said, “The Obvious Mickeys
book is $35”. She realized her faux pas and gave a “D’oh!” She was
carrying the remnants of a beer in a cup and I asked if it was her ninth
of the day. She laughed (thank goodness, she could’ve hit me).
We next walked up and found a bench in the America’s Garden Theater.
Here’s another question… why are there so many trees potentially
blocking someone’s view in an outdoor theater? Does it strike anyone
else as odd or a poor design?
It’s now 1:30 so we’re off to France where I announce to Caroline that
we now have a reservation. By the way, her inability to honor my request
has made her no less attractive to me. At the risk of being called a
Dirty Old Man… she’s hot. She asks us to take a seat until we’re called,
which we do.
Six French speaking guys in swimsuits (yes, swimsuits) push their way up
to the podium, leer at Caroline, and converse with her - rapidly and in
fluent French. She seems a little taken aback but retreats to the
restaurant and returns to give them an affirmative. I’m not sure if this
was simply for a table or something else but they were exuberant, and
obnoxious. They surrounded the podium giving the seated guests waiting
there an all-too-close-up view of the back of their swimsuits – if you
know what I mean.
We’re seated at 1:35 and our server is Nanon from Paris. She’s blond and
gorgeous (this place has nothing but knockouts and why don’t I eat here
more often). To be fair, there are an equivalent number of young male
servers here. I’m no woman but they might be equally attractive. Wait…
nah… they’re not.
A few years ago, it was the French Menu and cost $14.95. Now it’s the
Price Fixe for $23.99. It’s onion soup. A grilled ham and cheese
sandwich and salad, and crème brulee and, after having it once, we
decided it’s way too much food for two people. Our compromise is that we
share it, and order a second bowl of soup. Nonon did a wonderful job and
the food was great. As good as the Kona Café was the other night, this
crème brulee beat theirs hands down.
When we finished, we walked back to the Beach Club and took up some
space in the Solarium waiting for the Disney’s Magical Express bus. I
worked on the laptop, Barb read a newspaper. I found a Men’s room in the
villas with a huge stall to change in. Why won’t they put clothes hooks
on the back of the stall doors? It would make it so much easier and
remove the risk of dropping a pair of pants into the toilet. Ladies room
stalls have them (or so I’m told).
Let’s end this now. Somehow, I’ve managed to stretch a 6-day trip into
23 pages. Disney’s Magical Express was on time. I beeped through
Security at the airport but was told it wasn’t metal, I was just picked
for a random check. They swabbed my hands then released me. Our flight
was on time and mostly smooth (except for the last 40 minutes). The
biggest surprise of the trip was stepping off the escalator at Albany’s
baggage claim to see both bags on the carousel. We found our car and
walked in our door 40 minutes after stepping off the plane. That’s a new
record – by far!
Miles Walked Today: 6.61.
Final Thoughts: As I mentioned, we really needed this trip. Did it help?
Yes. Did it work? Not really. As soon as we walked into a quiet house at
11:30pm, I could sense we both subconsciously expected to be greeted by
the typically excited Gunnar. They say dogs have no concept of time but
he seemed to know when we were gone for more than a few days. His
greeting was more exuberant as he paced excitedly at our feet, running
his body across our legs as if he just wanted the contact. I think I
know why this is so difficult for us to get past but there’s no point in
hashing it through here. It’s going to take time.
It was a good trip even if a bit on the shorter side. We were able to
get away together, relax a bit and enjoy a few of the newer things at
Walt Disney World. Star Tours was certainly a hit with us, as was La
Hacienda and Kona Café.
Next up, we scheduled for another solo trip in May for the Epcot Flower
and Garden Festival – we’re hopeful. After that, we have a “whole
family” trip planned for December. We just learned that Stephen and
Stephanie might not be able to make that one but it’s early yet. We’re
hoping.
Thanks for reading.
I’ve uploaded just a few of the many photos to:
https://picasaweb.google.com/srusso100/20120129WDW?authkey=Gv1sRgCInJgKnKl43i4wE
--
Steve
Participants
• Steve –Your humble narrator.
• Barb – My bride of 39 years.
Beach Club Villas– Studio
Day Six - Friday, February 3, 2012 – Heading Home
We’re up at 6:30. Our boarding passes are in an envelope that was
slipped under our door. Remember I paid for Early Bird Check-In on both
ends of this trip? Somehow, Barb gets A20 while I get A37. Someone needs
to explain this to me. It’s not a big deal because Barb can board and
grab our seats – I’m just wondering how this happens.
There’s no room receipt on the door but I find it’s been emailed to me.
I kind of like that.
The forecast is for 80 degrees today but very windy all day (and night).
This morning we decided that we needed a little more sustenance than a
muffin or banana can deliver, so we sashayed over to the Captain’s
Grille for breakfast. (I like to sashay, or meander, when I can, and at
Disney World it’s not out of place at all, unlike say, New York, where
sashaying is frowned upon.) It’s French toast for Barb and Eggs My Way
(over easy is my way) for me - with a full carafe of some very fine
coffee. I do like this place.
We head back to our room to finish packing. Barb opts for slacks today
but I stick with shorts, tossing a jacket and a pair of Dockers into a
carry-on bag. I figure I’ll find some place to change before boarding
Disney’s Magical Express this afternoon.
We roll our luggage outside to Resort Airline Check-in and we’re all set
in about 3 minutes. I can’t tell you how much I like this service. We
then store our carry-ons (excepting Barb’s shoulder bag/purse which she
carries with her) with Baggage Services.
We make it to Epcot at 10:00, walk through and I grabbed Soarin’
FastPasses for 11:00 (Damn you, Wilmot!). We then ride Standby with a 10
minute wait.
We walked down and road the Seas with Nemo and friends and spent a few
minutes in the aquarium areas.
We then strolled through Innoventions West and East. There really was
not much to do there. The Sum of all Thrills had a long line so we
passed. There’s a new attraction in soft opening called Habit Heroes. It
looked interesting but the cast member said it wouldn’t open until this
afternoon.
Back to Soarin’. The FastPass queue was a walk on but Standby is now 40
minutes. We spent time some extra time in the queue here, just prior to
the pre-show. They had one load area completely filled while the other
two were completely empty. I’m not sure what was going on.
We also waited several minutes for the ride to start as the cast members
kept getting a seatbelt warning. Twice they asked one row of people to
unbuckle and re-buckle. Finally, we were off.
Knowing we’re flying out at 8:15 tonight, we were leaning toward a late
lunch. I have no particular love for the food options at Orlando
International. We thought about Le Cellier and walked down there but
there was a huge line at the door. Our other choices were Rose and Crown
of Les Chefs de France. I asked Barb her preference and she voted for
France so off we went.
It’s now about 12:15 and I’m looking for a table at 1:30-2:00. I walk up
to the podium and see Caroline. She’s an absolutely stunning young lady
but I’ll soon find out most of the female servers in Les Chefs are
equally beautiful. I need to find the guy that does the hiring here and
high-five him.
I explain to Caroline that I’m looking for a table between 1:30-2:00.
She says she can seat me now but can’t guarantee a table later. Really?
I thank her and move down to Morocco and we take seats on a ledge there.
Barb calls home and talks with Stephanie. All is well and she learns
that our daughters have a new-found respect for what we go through on a
daily basis as caregivers for a 96-year old. I was actually expecting
this. It’s one thing to view as an occasional guest; it’s quite another
to live it 24/7.
While Barb’s chatting with Steph, I call WDW-DINE. I’m chatting with Pam
and here’s the situation: I’m sitting 100’ from, and looking at Les
Chefs de France, while talking with Pam who’s in another time zone
altogether (never found out which one), getting a 1:30 reservation that
the girl at the podium, again 100’ away, couldn’t give me. What’s wrong
with that picture?
I booked 1:30 put had my pick of 1:10, 1:30 or 1:50.
We head to Germany and Karamel Kuche for two bags of chocolate caramel
pop corn for Michelle and Stephanie. I was able to grab an AP discount
here. As a matter of fact, I received an AP discount in almost every
store all week – including the Beach Club Marketplace. We did some
window shopping and people watching in Germany, Japan and Morocco.
I’m discovering that I’m not a huge fan of these evening flights home.
You’re homeless for too much of the day. In the future, I guess we’ll
opt for the mid-morning flight even though we’ll lose the whole day at
Disney World (at least until Southwest changes their Friday schedule).
We were by the miniature trains in Germany and we heard several people
chatting about Hidden Mickeys. One fellow had just purchased a book
(“…next door for $13.95”) and was searching for one in the train layout.
As we all helped him look, one of his party saw the three trees in the
familiar Hidden Mickey pattern. We all looked and pointed it out to others.
A woman remarked, “Geez, it’s awfully hidden.” I said, “That’s why
they’re called HIDDEN Mickeys.” Another guy said, “The Obvious Mickeys
book is $35”. She realized her faux pas and gave a “D’oh!” She was
carrying the remnants of a beer in a cup and I asked if it was her ninth
of the day. She laughed (thank goodness, she could’ve hit me).
We next walked up and found a bench in the America’s Garden Theater.
Here’s another question… why are there so many trees potentially
blocking someone’s view in an outdoor theater? Does it strike anyone
else as odd or a poor design?
It’s now 1:30 so we’re off to France where I announce to Caroline that
we now have a reservation. By the way, her inability to honor my request
has made her no less attractive to me. At the risk of being called a
Dirty Old Man… she’s hot. She asks us to take a seat until we’re called,
which we do.
Six French speaking guys in swimsuits (yes, swimsuits) push their way up
to the podium, leer at Caroline, and converse with her - rapidly and in
fluent French. She seems a little taken aback but retreats to the
restaurant and returns to give them an affirmative. I’m not sure if this
was simply for a table or something else but they were exuberant, and
obnoxious. They surrounded the podium giving the seated guests waiting
there an all-too-close-up view of the back of their swimsuits – if you
know what I mean.
We’re seated at 1:35 and our server is Nanon from Paris. She’s blond and
gorgeous (this place has nothing but knockouts and why don’t I eat here
more often). To be fair, there are an equivalent number of young male
servers here. I’m no woman but they might be equally attractive. Wait…
nah… they’re not.
A few years ago, it was the French Menu and cost $14.95. Now it’s the
Price Fixe for $23.99. It’s onion soup. A grilled ham and cheese
sandwich and salad, and crème brulee and, after having it once, we
decided it’s way too much food for two people. Our compromise is that we
share it, and order a second bowl of soup. Nonon did a wonderful job and
the food was great. As good as the Kona Café was the other night, this
crème brulee beat theirs hands down.
When we finished, we walked back to the Beach Club and took up some
space in the Solarium waiting for the Disney’s Magical Express bus. I
worked on the laptop, Barb read a newspaper. I found a Men’s room in the
villas with a huge stall to change in. Why won’t they put clothes hooks
on the back of the stall doors? It would make it so much easier and
remove the risk of dropping a pair of pants into the toilet. Ladies room
stalls have them (or so I’m told).
Let’s end this now. Somehow, I’ve managed to stretch a 6-day trip into
23 pages. Disney’s Magical Express was on time. I beeped through
Security at the airport but was told it wasn’t metal, I was just picked
for a random check. They swabbed my hands then released me. Our flight
was on time and mostly smooth (except for the last 40 minutes). The
biggest surprise of the trip was stepping off the escalator at Albany’s
baggage claim to see both bags on the carousel. We found our car and
walked in our door 40 minutes after stepping off the plane. That’s a new
record – by far!
Miles Walked Today: 6.61.
Final Thoughts: As I mentioned, we really needed this trip. Did it help?
Yes. Did it work? Not really. As soon as we walked into a quiet house at
11:30pm, I could sense we both subconsciously expected to be greeted by
the typically excited Gunnar. They say dogs have no concept of time but
he seemed to know when we were gone for more than a few days. His
greeting was more exuberant as he paced excitedly at our feet, running
his body across our legs as if he just wanted the contact. I think I
know why this is so difficult for us to get past but there’s no point in
hashing it through here. It’s going to take time.
It was a good trip even if a bit on the shorter side. We were able to
get away together, relax a bit and enjoy a few of the newer things at
Walt Disney World. Star Tours was certainly a hit with us, as was La
Hacienda and Kona Café.
Next up, we scheduled for another solo trip in May for the Epcot Flower
and Garden Festival – we’re hopeful. After that, we have a “whole
family” trip planned for December. We just learned that Stephen and
Stephanie might not be able to make that one but it’s early yet. We’re
hoping.
Thanks for reading.
I’ve uploaded just a few of the many photos to:
https://picasaweb.google.com/srusso100/20120129WDW?authkey=Gv1sRgCInJgKnKl43i4wE
--
Steve
Alpha
Feb 11, 2012, 8:33:47 PM2/11/12
to
Steve Russo <sru...@nycap.rr.com> wrote in
news:jh3dmp$vku$7...@dont-email.me:
> Final Thoughts: As I mentioned, we really needed this trip. Did it
> help? Yes. Did it work? Not really. As soon as we walked into a quiet
> house at 11:30pm, I could sense we both subconsciously expected to be
> greeted by the typically excited Gunnar. They say dogs have no concept
> of time but he seemed to know when we were gone for more than a few
> days. His greeting was more exuberant as he paced excitedly at our
> feet, running his body across our legs as if he just wanted the
> contact. I think I know why this is so difficult for us to get past
> but there’s no point in hashing it through here. It’s going to take
> time.
It does just take time. It took me a long time to stop checking the couch
for my cat before sitting down. And it took me a long time to stop calling
out for her when we would come home.
> Thanks for reading.
And thanks for posting, Steve! Enjoyed it as always. Guessing the knee
didn't end up giving you trouble?
-- Alpha
news:jh3dmp$vku$7...@dont-email.me:
> Final Thoughts: As I mentioned, we really needed this trip. Did it
> help? Yes. Did it work? Not really. As soon as we walked into a quiet
> house at 11:30pm, I could sense we both subconsciously expected to be
> greeted by the typically excited Gunnar. They say dogs have no concept
> of time but he seemed to know when we were gone for more than a few
> days. His greeting was more exuberant as he paced excitedly at our
> feet, running his body across our legs as if he just wanted the
> contact. I think I know why this is so difficult for us to get past
> but there’s no point in hashing it through here. It’s going to take
> time.
for my cat before sitting down. And it took me a long time to stop calling
out for her when we would come home.
> Thanks for reading.
And thanks for posting, Steve! Enjoyed it as always. Guessing the knee
didn't end up giving you trouble?
-- Alpha
Steve Russo
Feb 12, 2012, 11:01:15 AM2/12/12
to
--
Steve
Peppermint Patty
Feb 13, 2012, 6:29:56 PM2/13/12
to
And once again, thanks for posting! I know it's a chore, having tried
to do it so many times in the past. My intentions are always good
starting out but then I end up having too much fun to write about it!
Glad you and Barb were able to get away and have a good time. We
still miss all of our buddies too but the day does come when you can
remember and talk about Gunnar without accompanying tears. Glad all
was well at home while you were away.
to do it so many times in the past. My intentions are always good
starting out but then I end up having too much fun to write about it!
Glad you and Barb were able to get away and have a good time. We
still miss all of our buddies too but the day does come when you can
remember and talk about Gunnar without accompanying tears. Glad all
was well at home while you were away.
Steve Russo
Feb 14, 2012, 9:06:22 AM2/14/12
to
--
Steve
Rudeney
Feb 14, 2012, 5:07:23 PM2/14/12
to
On 2/10/2012 9:39 AM, Steve Russo wrote:
>
> We’re up at 6:30. Our boarding passes are in an envelope that was
> slipped under our door. Remember I paid for Early Bird Check-In on both
> ends of this trip? Somehow, Barb gets A20 while I get A37. Someone needs
> to explain this to me. It’s not a big deal because Barb can board and
> grab our seats – I’m just wondering how this happens.
That is odd. Having spent the last two years traveling about once a
>
> We’re up at 6:30. Our boarding passes are in an envelope that was
> slipped under our door. Remember I paid for Early Bird Check-In on both
> ends of this trip? Somehow, Barb gets A20 while I get A37. Someone needs
> to explain this to me. It’s not a big deal because Barb can board and
> grab our seats – I’m just wondering how this happens.
month, with several coworkers on the same itinerary, and almost
exclusively on SWA and using EBC, ours have always been a consecutive
range. I wonder who you pissed off at SWA?
> We head back to our room to finish packing. Barb opts for slacks today
> but I stick with shorts, tossing a jacket and a pair of Dockers into a
> carry-on bag. I figure I’ll find some place to change before boarding
> Disney’s Magical Express this afternoon.
> It’s now about 12:15 and I’m looking for a table at 1:30-2:00. I walk up
> to the podium and see Caroline. She’s an absolutely stunning young lady
> but I’ll soon find out most of the female servers in Les Chefs are
> equally beautiful. I need to find the guy that does the hiring here and
> high-five him.
> Barb calls home and talks with Stephanie. All is well and she learns
> that our daughters have a new-found respect for what we go through on a
> daily basis as caregivers for a 96-year old. I was actually expecting
> this. It’s one thing to view as an occasional guest; it’s quite another
> to live it 24/7.
Barb will be 96 years old. ;-)
> While Barb’s chatting with Steph, I call WDW-DINE. I’m chatting with Pam
> and here’s the situation: I’m sitting 100’ from, and looking at Les
> Chefs de France, while talking with Pam who’s in another time zone
> altogether (never found out which one), getting a 1:30 reservation that
> the girl at the podium, again 100’ away, couldn’t give me. What’s wrong
> with that picture?
> I’m discovering that I’m not a huge fan of these evening flights home.
> You’re homeless for too much of the day. In the future, I guess we’ll
> opt for the mid-morning flight even though we’ll lose the whole day at
> Disney World (at least until Southwest changes their Friday schedule).
“homeless”. She even does this at the beach, where we can sta as long
as we want, but she’s ready to go by 9:00am.
> We were by the miniature trains in Germany and we heard several people
> chatting about Hidden Mickeys. One fellow had just purchased a book
> (“…next door for $13.95”) and was searching for one in the train layout.
> As we all helped him look, one of his party saw the three trees in the
> familiar Hidden Mickey pattern. We all looked and pointed it out to
others.
>
> A woman remarked, “Geez, it’s awfully hidden.” I said, “That’s why
> they’re called HIDDEN Mickeys.” Another guy said, “The Obvious Mickeys
> book is $35”. She realized her faux pas and gave a “D’oh!”
> She was
> carrying the remnants of a beer in a cup and I asked if it was her ninth
> of the day. She laughed (thank goodness, she could’ve hit me).
> We next walked up and found a bench in the America’s Garden Theater.
> Here’s another question… why are there so many trees potentially
> blocking someone’s view in an outdoor theater? Does it strike anyone
> else as odd or a poor design?
> It’s now 1:30 so we’re off to France where I announce to Caroline that
> we now have a reservation. By the way, her inability to honor my request
> has made her no less attractive to me. At the risk of being called a
> Dirty Old Man… she’s hot. She asks us to take a seat until we’re called,
> which we do.
> Six French speaking guys in swimsuits (yes, swimsuits) push their way up
> to the podium, leer at Caroline, and converse with her - rapidly and in
> fluent French. She seems a little taken aback but retreats to the
> restaurant and returns to give them an affirmative. I’m not sure if this
> was simply for a table or something else but they were exuberant, and
> obnoxious. They surrounded the podium giving the seated guests waiting
> there an all-too-close-up view of the back of their swimsuits – if you
> know what I mean.
> We’re seated at 1:35 and our server is Nanon from Paris. She’s blond and
> gorgeous (this place has nothing but knockouts and why don’t I eat here
> more often).
> When we finished, we walked back to the Beach Club and took up some
> space in the Solarium waiting for the Disney’s Magical Express bus. I
> worked on the laptop, Barb read a newspaper. I found a Men’s room in the
> villas with a huge stall to change in. Why won’t they put clothes hooks
> on the back of the stall doors? It would make it so much easier and
> remove the risk of dropping a pair of pants into the toilet. Ladies room
> stalls have them (or so I’m told).
not carry purses, the though it not to bother.
> Let’s end this now. Somehow, I’ve managed to stretch a 6-day trip into
> 23 pages.
> Disney’s Magical Express was on time. I beeped through
> Security at the airport but was told it wasn’t metal, I was just picked
> for a random check. They swabbed my hands then released me.
> Final Thoughts: As I mentioned, we really needed this trip. Did it help?
> Yes. Did it work? Not really. As soon as we walked into a quiet house at
> 11:30pm, I could sense we both subconsciously expected to be greeted by
> the typically excited Gunnar. They say dogs have no concept of time but
> he seemed to know when we were gone for more than a few days. His
> greeting was more exuberant as he paced excitedly at our feet, running
> his body across our legs as if he just wanted the contact. I think I
> know why this is so difficult for us to get past but there’s no point in
> hashing it through here. It’s going to take time.
you. I always look at is as not trying to replace the lost pet, but
instead making sure there’s one less homeless animal on the streets or
in the shelters.
> Thanks for reading.
You are welcome! It was a great read, as always.
--
- RODNEY
Next WDW Vacation?
Who knows!
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Steve Russo
Feb 15, 2012, 8:09:31 AM2/15/12
to
On 2/14/2012 5:07 PM, Rudeney wrote:
> On 2/10/2012 9:39 AM, Steve Russo wrote:
> >
> > We’re up at 6:30. Our boarding passes are in an envelope that was
> > slipped under our door. Remember I paid for Early Bird Check-In on both
> > ends of this trip? Somehow, Barb gets A20 while I get A37. Someone needs
> > to explain this to me. It’s not a big deal because Barb can board and
> > grab our seats – I’m just wondering how this happens.
>
> That is odd. Having spent the last two years traveling about once a
> month, with several coworkers on the same itinerary, and almost
> exclusively on SWA and using EBC, ours have always been a consecutive
> range. I wonder who you pissed off at SWA?
We did have two reservations to accommodate the free flights but I
> On 2/10/2012 9:39 AM, Steve Russo wrote:
> >
> > We’re up at 6:30. Our boarding passes are in an envelope that was
> > slipped under our door. Remember I paid for Early Bird Check-In on both
> > ends of this trip? Somehow, Barb gets A20 while I get A37. Someone needs
> > to explain this to me. It’s not a big deal because Barb can board and
> > grab our seats – I’m just wondering how this happens.
>
> That is odd. Having spent the last two years traveling about once a
> month, with several coworkers on the same itinerary, and almost
> exclusively on SWA and using EBC, ours have always been a consecutive
> range. I wonder who you pissed off at SWA?
signed us up for EBC at the same time. I could understand being a few
numbers apart but... 17? More confusing because we were consecutive on
the flight down. I'll never know...
>
> > We head back to our room to finish packing. Barb opts for slacks today
> > but I stick with shorts, tossing a jacket and a pair of Dockers into a
> > carry-on bag. I figure I’ll find some place to change before boarding
> > Disney’s Magical Express this afternoon.
>
> I guess you are expecting cold weather at home?
> > Barb calls home and talks with Stephanie. All is well and she learns
> > that our daughters have a new-found respect for what we go through on a
> > daily basis as caregivers for a 96-year old. I was actually expecting
> > this. It’s one thing to view as an occasional guest; it’s quite another
> > to live it 24/7.
>
> If you really want to scare the kids, just remind them someday you and
> Barb will be 96 years old. ;-)
>
> > It’s now 1:30 so we’re off to France where I announce to Caroline that
> > we now have a reservation. By the way, her inability to honor my request
> > has made her no less attractive to me. At the risk of being called a
> > Dirty Old Man… she’s hot. She asks us to take a seat until we’re called,
> > which we do.
>
> And you sat there drooling over her the entire time, didn’t you?
>
> > Six French speaking guys in swimsuits (yes, swimsuits) push their way up
> > to the podium, leer at Caroline, and converse with her - rapidly and in
> > fluent French. She seems a little taken aback but retreats to the
> > restaurant and returns to give them an affirmative. I’m not sure if this
> > was simply for a table or something else but they were exuberant, and
> > obnoxious. They surrounded the podium giving the seated guests waiting
> > there an all-too-close-up view of the back of their swimsuits – if you
> > know what I mean.
>
> It could have been wore – Speedos!
>
> > We’re seated at 1:35 and our server is Nanon from Paris. She’s blond and
> > gorgeous (this place has nothing but knockouts and why don’t I eat here
> > more often).
>
> I guess you don’t have Hooters in update NY either, huh?
offend anyone but... no comparison.
>
> > Final Thoughts: As I mentioned, we really needed this trip. Did it help?
> > Yes. Did it work? Not really. As soon as we walked into a quiet house at
> > 11:30pm, I could sense we both subconsciously expected to be greeted by
> > the typically excited Gunnar. They say dogs have no concept of time but
> > he seemed to know when we were gone for more than a few days. His
> > greeting was more exuberant as he paced excitedly at our feet, running
> > his body across our legs as if he just wanted the contact. I think I
> > know why this is so difficult for us to get past but there’s no point in
> > hashing it through here. It’s going to take time.
>
> Yep. Just remember that out there somewhere, there is another one for
> you. I always look at is as not trying to replace the lost pet, but
> instead making sure there’s one less homeless animal on the streets or
> in the shelters.
Right now, Gunnar was the one and only.
>
> > Thanks for reading.
>
> You are welcome! It was a great read, as always.
>
--
Steve
Peppermint Patty
Feb 15, 2012, 11:45:15 AM2/15/12
to
> My wife always wants to leave early, so we won’t even be tempted to be
> “homeless”. She even does this at the beach, where we can sta as long
> as we want, but she’s ready to go by 9:00am.
another day at the parks anytime!
> It could have been wore – Speedos!
from the face of the earth. Puhleeze! If I want to see that much,
I'll rent a movie. Gross. Ptoooey!!
> I guess you don’t have Hooters in update NY either, huh?
> Yep. Just remember that out there somewhere, there is another one for
> you. I always look at is as not trying to replace the lost pet, but
> instead making sure there’s one less homeless animal on the streets or
> in the shelters.
pals but nothing says we can't love new guys just the same. And we
have done that. They all have love to give and it's a good feeling to
know that you saved another dog from who knows what? We've done it
twice and never regretted it for a minute even though we thought we
weren't ready. You'll know when and if it's time again.
Rudeney
Feb 15, 2012, 2:38:07 PM2/15/12
to
On 2/15/2012 10:45 AM, Peppermint Patty wrote:
>
>
>> My wife always wants to leave early, so we won’t even be tempted to be
>> “homeless”. She even does this at the beach, where we can sta as long
>> as we want, but she’s ready to go by 9:00am.
>
> I never want to leave! I'll take being temporarily homeless for
> another day at the parks anytime!
That's me, too. I'd stay as long as possible and then drive or fly home
>
>
>> My wife always wants to leave early, so we won’t even be tempted to be
>> “homeless”. She even does this at the beach, where we can sta as long
>> as we want, but she’s ready to go by 9:00am.
>
> I never want to leave! I'll take being temporarily homeless for
> another day at the parks anytime!
at night. Jan is too concerned with getting sweaty at the parks - she
wants to ride home "fresh", so being homeless is not an option for her.
Lisa Cubbon
Feb 17, 2012, 8:58:29 PM2/17/12
to
that you and Barb got the time away and sad that we missed meeting you
by not very much at all.
Lisa
Steve Russo
Feb 18, 2012, 9:04:41 AM2/18/12
to
On 2/17/2012 8:58 PM, Lisa Cubbon wrote:
>>
> Thanks, Steve! For taking the time to do this wonderful TR. I am so glad
> that you and Barb got the time away and sad that we missed meeting you
> by not very much at all.
>
> Lisa
Thank you, Lisa. Don't be too distraught about not meeting me - I'm not
>>
> Thanks, Steve! For taking the time to do this wonderful TR. I am so glad
> that you and Barb got the time away and sad that we missed meeting you
> by not very much at all.
>
> Lisa
all that impressive ;-)
--
Steve
Lisa Cubbon
Feb 18, 2012, 12:50:36 PM2/18/12
to
Lisa
Steve Russo
Feb 18, 2012, 1:05:49 PM2/18/12
to
--
Steve
Lisa Cubbon
Feb 18, 2012, 2:56:24 PM2/18/12
to
Salute!
Lisa
Bob Me.
Feb 25, 2012, 9:05:51 AM2/25/12
to
"Steve Russo" <sru...@nycap.rr.com> wrote in message
news:jh3dmp$vku$7...@dont-email.me...
> Thanks for reading.
>
> I’ve uploaded just a few of the many photos to:
> https://picasaweb.google.com/srusso100/20120129WDW?authkey=Gv1sRgCInJgKnKl43i4wE
>
>
> --
> Steve
Steve, thanks for the great trip report. It amazes me how you and others in
the group can write these detailed TRs. I can't remember what I was doing 5
seconds ago, let alone try to pull together such details over a vacation
that always seem to go by in a blur.
Now what was I talking about?
Oh yeah. Great TR.
--
Bob Me.
Please stand clear of the doors, por favor mantenganse alejado de las
puertas.
To reply to me via email, remove the "spam.and.eggs." from my email address.
news:jh3dmp$vku$7...@dont-email.me...
> January 29 – February 3, 2012
> Participants
> • Steve –Your humble narrator.
> • Barb – My bride of 39 years.
>
> Beach Club Villas– Studio
>
> Day Six - Friday, February 3, 2012 – Heading Home
>
>
Snipped all the good stuff.
> Participants
> • Steve –Your humble narrator.
> • Barb – My bride of 39 years.
>
> Beach Club Villas– Studio
>
> Day Six - Friday, February 3, 2012 – Heading Home
>
>
> Thanks for reading.
>
> I’ve uploaded just a few of the many photos to:
> https://picasaweb.google.com/srusso100/20120129WDW?authkey=Gv1sRgCInJgKnKl43i4wE
>
>
> --
> Steve
the group can write these detailed TRs. I can't remember what I was doing 5
seconds ago, let alone try to pull together such details over a vacation
that always seem to go by in a blur.
Now what was I talking about?
Oh yeah. Great TR.
--
Bob Me.
Please stand clear of the doors, por favor mantenganse alejado de las
puertas.
To reply to me via email, remove the "spam.and.eggs." from my email address.
Steve Russo
Feb 25, 2012, 9:52:11 AM2/25/12
to
On 2/25/2012 9:05 AM, Bob Me. wrote:
> "Steve Russo"<sru...@nycap.rr.com> wrote in message
> news:jh3dmp$vku$7...@dont-email.me...
>> January 29 – February 3, 2012
>> Participants
>> • Steve –Your humble narrator.
>> • Barb – My bride of 39 years.
>>
>> Beach Club Villas– Studio
>>
>> Day Six - Friday, February 3, 2012 – Heading Home
>>
>>
> Snipped all the good stuff.
>
>> Thanks for reading.
>>
>> I’ve uploaded just a few of the many photos to:
>> https://picasaweb.google.com/srusso100/20120129WDW?authkey=Gv1sRgCInJgKnKl43i4wE
>>
>>
>> --
>> Steve
>
> Steve, thanks for the great trip report. It amazes me how you and others in
> the group can write these detailed TRs. I can't remember what I was doing 5
> seconds ago, let alone try to pull together such details over a vacation
> that always seem to go by in a blur.
>
> Now what was I talking about?
>
> Oh yeah. Great TR.
>
Thanks, Bob. Everyone seems to have a different system. What works for
> "Steve Russo"<sru...@nycap.rr.com> wrote in message
> news:jh3dmp$vku$7...@dont-email.me...
>> January 29 – February 3, 2012
>> Participants
>> • Steve –Your humble narrator.
>> • Barb – My bride of 39 years.
>>
>> Beach Club Villas– Studio
>>
>> Day Six - Friday, February 3, 2012 – Heading Home
>>
>>
> Snipped all the good stuff.
>
>> Thanks for reading.
>>
>> I’ve uploaded just a few of the many photos to:
>> https://picasaweb.google.com/srusso100/20120129WDW?authkey=Gv1sRgCInJgKnKl43i4wE
>>
>>
>> --
>> Steve
>
> Steve, thanks for the great trip report. It amazes me how you and others in
> the group can write these detailed TRs. I can't remember what I was doing 5
> seconds ago, let alone try to pull together such details over a vacation
> that always seem to go by in a blur.
>
> Now what was I talking about?
>
> Oh yeah. Great TR.
>
me is recording any key moments during the day and putting them into a
Word document each night (or early morning). They're very cryptic notes
but enough to jog my memory. Even so, I still leave out or forget items
that should have been included. Happens every trip.
I also switched from a small digital recorder (which made me a tad
self-conscious when using it) to a recording app on my iPod Touch. Now
it just looks like I'm on the phone.
--
Steve
Sandi Femino
Feb 26, 2012, 7:29:57 AM2/26/12
to
In article <jh3dmp$vku$7...@dont-email.me>,
Def. on my to do list. I had my first trip during Food and Wine this
past Oct. so Flower & Garden is next up.
After that, we have a łwhole
> hoping.
Hope it all gets pulled together.
Thanks for the great TR, Steve. As always, a fun read!
--
Sandi
http://capecodcards.blogspot.com/
Steve Russo <sru...@nycap.rr.com> wrote:
> Next up, we scheduled for another solo trip in May for the Epcot Flower
> and Garden Festival weąre hopeful.
> Next up, we scheduled for another solo trip in May for the Epcot Flower
Def. on my to do list. I had my first trip during Food and Wine this
past Oct. so Flower & Garden is next up.
After that, we have a łwhole
> family˛ trip planned for December. We just learned that Stephen and
> Stephanie might not be able to make that one but itąs early yet. Weąre
> hoping.
Hope it all gets pulled together.
Thanks for the great TR, Steve. As always, a fun read!
--
Sandi
http://capecodcards.blogspot.com/
Steve Russo
Feb 26, 2012, 12:24:24 PM2/26/12
to
On 2/26/2012 7:29 AM, Sandi Femino wrote:
> In article<jh3dmp$vku$7...@dont-email.me>,
> Steve Russo<sru...@nycap.rr.com> wrote:
>
>> Next up, we scheduled for another solo trip in May for the Epcot Flower
>> and Garden Festival weąre hopeful.
>
> Def. on my to do list. I had my first trip during Food and Wine this
> past Oct. so Flower& Garden is next up.
> In article<jh3dmp$vku$7...@dont-email.me>,
> Steve Russo<sru...@nycap.rr.com> wrote:
>
>> Next up, we scheduled for another solo trip in May for the Epcot Flower
>> and Garden Festival weąre hopeful.
>
> Def. on my to do list. I had my first trip during Food and Wine this
>
> After that, we have a łwhole
>> family˛ trip planned for December. We just learned that Stephen and
>> Stephanie might not be able to make that one but itąs early yet. Weąre
>> hoping.
> Hope it all gets pulled together.
>
>
> Thanks for the great TR, Steve. As always, a fun read!
>
Thanks, Sandi. Unfortunately, the May trip for us has already bit the
> After that, we have a łwhole
>> family˛ trip planned for December. We just learned that Stephen and
>> Stephanie might not be able to make that one but itąs early yet. Weąre
>> hoping.
> Hope it all gets pulled together.
>
>
> Thanks for the great TR, Steve. As always, a fun read!
>
dust. We're going to try a January 2013 trip as our 3rd on these APs -
about a week before they expire.
We enjoyed our one trip in May for the Flower and Garden Festival. The
weather was a lot warmer than we're used to with winter trips so we
logged a lot more pool time. Epcot is truly gorgeous... I think you'd
enjoy it.
--
Steve
Rudeney
Feb 27, 2012, 9:45:43 AM2/27/12
to
slightly cooler, of course that also puts you in Spring Break season.
Greg K.
Apr 15, 2012, 9:49:19 PM4/15/12
to
On Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:39:04 -0500, Steve Russo <sru...@nycap.rr.com>
wrote:
>January 29 – February 3, 2012
>Participants
>• Steve –Your humble narrator.
>• Barb – My bride of 39 years.
>
>Beach Club Villas– Studio
>
>Day Six - Friday, February 3, 2012 – Heading Home
they take a lot of time. Even though I'm late reading, just wanted to
let you know I appreciate it.
Greg
wrote:
>January 29 – February 3, 2012
>Participants
>• Steve –Your humble narrator.
>• Barb – My bride of 39 years.
>
>Beach Club Villas– Studio
>
>Day Six - Friday, February 3, 2012 – Heading Home
>Thanks for reading.
>
>I’ve uploaded just a few of the many photos to:
>https://picasaweb.google.com/srusso100/20120129WDW?authkey=Gv1sRgCInJgKnKl43i4wE
Thank you for writing Steve. I enjoy all the TR's posted here. I know
>
>I’ve uploaded just a few of the many photos to:
>https://picasaweb.google.com/srusso100/20120129WDW?authkey=Gv1sRgCInJgKnKl43i4wE
they take a lot of time. Even though I'm late reading, just wanted to
let you know I appreciate it.
Greg
Steve Russo
Apr 16, 2012, 8:11:04 AM4/16/12
to
--
Steve
0 new messages