Trip Report The Happy/Merry Birthday/UnBirthday Wishes Come True TR

We've only been home for four days, but we did so much on this trip, I'm sure I'll forget something if i don't get started!
Let's do this!

Who:
Party of 10
That's me (Ali), my husband Jim, our son Ethan, daughter Gwen, Jim's parents (Mutie and Papa), Jim's sister, her husband and their two daughters

What:
Our very first whole family vacation

Where:
5 bedroom vacation home at Windsor Hills Resort. Because there's 10 of us

When:
July 20th - 28th

Why:
Mutie's 70th Birthday celebration!

Disclaimer: This trip report includes two days of non-Disney events. If that's not your cup of tea, I'll see you at Day 3

Day 1
Wednesday July 20th
I was up like a Pop Tart at 3:30 am for no reason other than the butterflies in my stomach. We had a 9:40 am flight out of O'Hare, and we live about ten minutes away.
TOO EXCITED TO SLEEP!

Our cab came around 7:30, and we were checked in, through security and at our gate by 8:30.
Because my husband is an absolute sweetheart, he ventured off to find breakfast for all of us. He returned with banana chocolate chip muffins and juice for the kids and Intelligentsia coffee for me! For you coffee snobs out there, if you find yourself in Chicago, this is my favorite local coffee. It's pretty easy to find in the city, but out here in the burbs, Starbucks dominates.

Our flight boarded on time, but departure was delayed almost 30 minutes due to the ground crew. It was a very hot morning, and they were moving a bit slow. No matter, both of my kids were happy reading or coloring, and I was passing the time listening to HAMILTON.

Despite the delay, our flight landed on time, and we were picking up our rental car in no time! We reserved a mid-sized vehicle, but were upgraded to a minivan at no extra charge! Score!
This is the part where I thank God for smart phones and GPS. I just looked up the Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront, hit navigate, and we were there in less than an hour! I can't imagine the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads with hungry kids in tow without it!

Upon check in, we were told our reservation had been cancelled. WHAT!?!?!? Excuse me? No. Where's my room?
So, I'm trying not to freak out, and trying to keep the kids in line. Failing at both.
I turn to Jim, and he doesn't even bat an eye! He was so cool and calm! He was zen like Buddah. He spoke with the desk clerk and had keys in his hand in just a few minutes. Whew!
It turns out the booking site we used went out of business and cancelled all reservations the day before! Insane! They posted a notice online that basically said "It sucks to be you! Don't call us, there's nobody to answer your call"
Luckily, the Hilton had a room available, and they honored our original rate. Jim called our credit card company and got the original charge refunded in less than 10 minutes. Crisis averted!

After the potential drama in the lobby, this was a welcome sight!

We all jumped into our suites as quickly as we could, and headed for the waves!
The water was perfect! I'm used to Lake Michigan, which never seems to get warm. The Atlantic felt like bath water.
We strolled along the shore, Gwen collected shells and Ethan ran through the surf.
NOW we were on vacation!

We eventually went back for showers and headed out to find dinner. We ended up at a beach front restaurant where I enjoyed some very simple but fresh mahi mahi tacos. Perfect!

After a long day of travel, we were all ready for bed early. Seriously early. I think it was like 8:30!

Up next: Kennedy Space Center and Orlando at last!

 

[MerMom1981]

Day 3 continued:

We made it into Les Halle's just as it began to drizzle. I was hopeful that it would be a short burst of a storm and that we would be on our merry way soon.
I went with the kids to get their passports and Duffy's stamped while all the other adults went to buy something sweet.
They came away with chocolate mousse, an enormous meringue and two baguettes. My husband doesn't really care about food, but he loves bread!
We somehow found two tables next to each other with six or seven chairs. That's a good score in my opinion!
Right after we nabbed our spot, people came pouring in the entrance. The rain was only getting stronger, and we were already into our next FP+ window...
Our food was long gone, we had thoroughly browsed the gift shop and taken kids for potty breaks. There was nothing left to do but head for Norway. Except we didn't bring ponchos.
We tried to wait it out, but we only had 10 minutes left for our FP+ for Frozen Ever After, and you know that standby was not an option. We bought a few umbrellas and headed for the door. I grabbed Ethan and told Gwen to stay close and we bolted. It was crazy! Jim and his parents went to get the scooters. I tried to wait for them, but they must not have noticed, cause they took off without me and the kids! I ended up chasing them across World Showcase while carrying Ethan and with Gwen as my lookout!
We made it to Norway mostly dry, and SIL was right behind me with my nieces. We made our way thought the queue and were given our own boat!
I will thank you all for not judging my hair or facial expression. I didn't know there was an on ride photo!

I love how Jim is looking at me like "Hey man, don't leave me hanging!" Hahaha!
Gwen was still excited about her passport, so we headed off to have it stamped. Ethan was over it, and was more interested in checking out the gift shop

 

[MerMom1981]

Ethan the Viking!

Jim took Ethan to find the restroom, and they bumped into a Photo Pass photographer on the way back

We tried to have the other kids pictures taken as well, but while we were waiting our turn, the photographer left with the group ahead of us. It was really weird. We were a very conspicuous group of 10, with two scooters. It's not like he didn't see us. So much for that photo op!

We made our way toward the front of the park, but we could not leave without the kids meeting at least one character. Gwen spotted Photo, and they hopped into the short line

Ethan was feeling especially affectionate

SIL and BIL headed back towards Canada for their date at LeCellier while the rest of us headed for the exit.
Our plan had been to rest or swim before dinner, but we left the park too late for that to happen. We had just enough time to stop and change out of our wet shoes before our 6:45 reservation at Bahama Breeze.
It's a favorite of Mutie's, and although this was just another un-birthday for her, I wanted her to have her way as much as possible

Unfortunately, dinner was pretty disappointing. The best part of my meal were the plantain chips Mutie and I shared as an appetizer. We shared fish tacos as our entree, and they were so SO dry. After a long day, we were really hungry, and we left unsatisfied.
The highlight of dinner was when we took turns sharing our favorite part of the day. Behind the Seeds was a standout for Jim & Papa, Soarin' for the kids, but Mutie had my favorite. Just being here all together!

Jim and Papa took the kids back to the house while Mutie and I made a quick Target run. (that's #2 for my family thus far) I can't remember what I needed, but I know I bought sleepytime tea and Milano's for later that night.

When we got back to the house, the kids were just getting out of the pool. Thanks to the five bathrooms, they were all showered and in bed in minutes.
Mutie and I enjoyed our tea and cookies before heading to bed ourselves

Next: Happy 70th Birthday Mutie! And a very merry un-birthday to me! And Jim, and Gwen, and Ethan, and Papa and the rest of us!

 

[LeighM]

Loved reading about your Behind the Seeds tour. My husband and I are doing this for our October trip and I'm so excited. I love that ride and have been wanting to do the tour for the last two years.

 

[MerMom1981]

Loved reading about your Behind the Seeds tour. My husband and I are doing this for our October trip and I'm so excited. I love that ride and have been wanting to do the tour for the last two years.

Thanks for reading! Behind the Seeds was money well spent in my opinion, especially now that Innoventions is shutting down. My SIL made a comment that Future World didn't have that much to offer. I didn't feel that way, and I think it's because we did this tour.
October is just around the corner! Enjoy your countdown!

 

[MerMom1981]

Day 4
Saturday July 23rd:

Today was THE day! The central purpose for our Big Fat Family Vacation, (yes, that was an alternate title for my TR) Mutie's birthday!
Birthday Girl wanted to spend her day at Magic Kingdom, so our course was set.

The four of us headed out earlier than the others in hopes of catching the welcome show. Rather, I had hoped to see the welcome show and the kids and I were ready to go by 8am. Jim does not have Pop-Tart DNA and was not ready quite as early.
By the time we reached the TTC, it was already 9:05. Oh well.
We had never taken the ferry across before, so we gave it a try!

I couldn't get real smiles for the camera, but they were excited!

We sailed through bag check and made our way up Main Street

We made our way through the castle and into a very busy Fantasyland. They held an Early Morning Magic event this morning, so there would be no walking on 7DMT for us. The wait was only 35 minutes, but we didn't have that much time before our 10am appointments at Bibbidi Bobbidi & Pirates League. The app said Haunted Mansion had a 10 minute wait, and the kids had never ridden, so we hurried toward Liberty Square.
They both loved the queue and HATED the stretching room. Overall, neither of them was very frightened, but they were not eager to ride it again. Ever.

Right after we exited our doom buggy. I noticed that Gwen didn't have her bag with her. Her bag that contained her Rapunzel dress!
I hurried back to the CM and explained our situation. He called the load area and they did not have it.
"It's on the ride. You'll have to come back later"
"But she's going to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in ten minutes!"

Ride stops

Two minutes later, another CM appears, bag in hand!
"Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! You guys rock!"
I offered a high-five, but she left me hanging.

Next up: BBB, Pirates League & hearding cats

 

[MerMom1981]

Day 4 continued:

Ever try to get ten people--traveling in three cars--to all meet in the same place at the same time? I've never tried to heard cats, but I feel like I have!

Before we left the house, we agreed to meet behind the castle by 10am. I sent a group text that we were at our meeting spot and received a variety of responses. "Running late" "boarding the monorail now" "Mutie left her phone but she's right behind us" Gah!

Luckily, BBB was running behind schedule, and I was able to check all the girls in.
Jim and Ethan headed for Adventureland with the plan to meet outside Princess Fairytale Hall when they were done.
The other girls arrived about 15 minutes late. Not too bad, but the worry of losing out time slot made it feel much longer!
Eventually, the girls were called in to meet their Fairygodmothers and begin their transformations

Gwen absolutely loved it! I got a little swept up in the magic and asked for my own dose of pixie dust

Pixie dust selfie

It was a sweet experience, and Gwen's smile was priceless, but I don't see us doing it again. It was a long wait, and then very hurried feeling once they got their chairs. The salon was overcrowded with bored siblings on iPads and I couldn't sit near Gwen. Despite these annoyances, we left with smiles on our faces!

Gwen had her heart set on meeting Rapunzel after her makeover, and everyone else agreed to join us.

Twins!

Best. Day. Ever!

 

[kimberlymautz]

So cute! Following along!

 

[ScarletBegonias]

Aw, she looks so cute!

 

[MerMom1981]

So cute! Following along!

Thanks! And thanks for reading!

 

[MerMom1981]

Aw, she looks so cute!

Thank you!!
She always gives me fake smiles for pictures, so it's great to capture the a genuine one!

 

[MerMom1981]

Day 4 continued:

Well, we couldn't leave Tiana out!

We headed out of PFTH to find my Pirates

I have no words. These two are just too much!

Can't. Take. It!!!!!!

After we reunited, it was time for our Space Mountain FP+, so off to Tomorrowland!
We were doing great for about 50 yards.
Someone had to go to the bathroom. Someone's shoe was untied
Someone else had to go to the bathroom.
And it was getting too hot for Mutie.

Ten people moving through a theme park just isn't easy

I suggested we all meet up in the exit gift shop and headed for the queue where I was handed this

This was a first time ride for me and the kids! We all loved it, but the queue was kinda shabby.
Gwen's BBB hairstyle did not love Space Mountain.
I found a corner of the exit platform and did my best to reconstruct and bobby pin the heck out of her hair.
She did not want to go back to BBB, and was satisfied with my work. Whew!
Moving on.

We finally made it to the exit shop and found... Nobody. Awesome.
I started texting everyone and finally got a message that they were in Cosmic Ray's.
What the #@*&?????
We had a FP+ for Buzz right after Space, and lunch ADR's right after THAT! I knew it was too hot to wait outside, which is why I pointed out the air conditioned gift shop. A busy QS restaurant at noon is not a smart choice for a meeting place. It is just the opposite.
What were they trying to do to me???? Help ME help YOU people!!!

We finally found them. I was out of patience, so I very abruptly informed them THEY could all use their Buzz FP+, but WE had to get to BOG for lunch.
I gritted me teeth and marched back towards Fantasyland.

 

[MerMom1981]

Day 4 continued:

I did my best to let go of my aggravation quickly. There would be no sense in letting it spoil the day.

We checked in and made our way across the bridge and into Beast's Castle! Gwen and I were both giddy with excitement. The boys were just along for the ride. The line moved pretty slowly, but at least we were in the A/C!

I ordered the quinoa salad, which was perfect for a hot day. It was light and refreshing, but full of energizing foods. Thumbs up!
Papa had the roast beef sandwich, Gwen had the kids pasta, I brought a PB & J for Ethan, and Jim just wanted bread.

Gwen really, really wanted to sit in the West Wing, but there were no tables available. I snapped a pic of her with the rose, and find a table back in the ballroom.

For dessert, it had to be The Master's Cupcake!

She finally tried The Grey Stuff. It was delicious.

We exited BOG with smiles on our faces and there was a Photopass photographer just waiting for us!

Papa didn't want in on our photo shoot, but the photog wouldn't let him off the hook!

 

[Zipadeelady]

@MerMom1981 you are killing me. "Help me help you" I don't know how you didn't go crazy. Koodos to you for trying to keep 10 people on task. I had a hard enough time with my 5. Luckily my sixth person just came and went as she pleased which made us all happy!

 

[steviej]

terrific tr, I would've definitely lost my mind trying to keep 10 people in track. I almost lost my cool with my wife's friend a few years ago who went to WDW with us and wanted to relax in the room or at the pool the entire time

 

[MerMom1981]

@MerMom1981 you are killing me. "Help me help you" I don't know how you didn't go crazy. Koodos to you for trying to keep 10 people on task. I had a hard enough time with my 5. Luckily my sixth person just came and went as she pleased which made us all happy!

I held on to my sanity--by my fingernails.
I gave my husband a whole lot of side eye, and he gave me a lot of raised eyebrows!

Bonus people coming and going sounds a whole lot easier, and a lot less stressful!

I need to finish reading your report! I've been neglecting the forum so badly!

 

[MerMom1981]

terrific tr, I would've definitely lost my mind trying to keep 10 people in track. I almost lost my cool with my wife's friend a few years ago who went to WDW with us and wanted to relax in the room or at the pool the entire time

Thanks for reading!
I can dig a relax-by-the-pool vacation, but that's not what Disney is about for me. You can do that anywhere!

 

[steviej]

Thanks for reading!
I can dig a relax-by-the-pool vacation, but that's not what Disney is about for me. You can do that anywhere!

THANK YOU! About 4 days in, I lost my cool and screamed at her that if she wanted to relax, she should've gone to the caribeean. Never apologized, never will, and she's still miffed about it to this day.

I'm going on a cruise in November, and I think it's completely understandable that I'll be a total bum that entire time.

 

[MerMom1981]

THANK YOU! About 4 days in, I lost my cool and screamed at her that if she wanted to relax, she should've gone to the caribeean. Never apologized, never will, and she's still miffed about it to this day.

I'm going on a cruise in November, and I think it's completely understandable that I'll be a total bum that entire time.

Cruises were made for relaxing! Eat. Swim. Be still and grow moss

 

[MerMom1981]

Day 4 continued again:

We still had tons of time before our next FP+, and the other half of the family was still at lunch at $$CRT$$
so we headed towards Gaston's Tavern, hoping to catch his M&G.
Not today folks.
We had to settle for his chair

The Little Mermaid had a 15 minute wait, so we took Papa on a journey under the sea. He got pretty irritated with his scooter, as the queue has so many sharp turns, but he'd endure alot worse for his grandkids
Gwen rode with Papa, and I was with my Pirates. I know this ride has its haters, but it makes me smile!

I got a text that the other half was done when lunch, so we headed to Hindered Acre Goods to meet them for our final FP+ of the day, 7DMT!!
Once we were all present and accounted for, I asked the kids "Who's ready to ride!?!?!"
The kids, Jim and I were all excited, and SIL & BIL came along too, with less enthusiasm. There was an exchange of words, but I didn't let it bring me down, and I'm not going to let it bring my TR down either!

We were winding down our day, and I thought it would be nice to watch Festival of Fantasy from Main Street before we left the park. I shared this idea with everyone and everyone agreed.
Until we started heading that way.
I heard muttering from the back of the bus and had to pull over. Right behind Cinderella's Castle, I said "Ok, time out. No one is required to see this parade, or do anything else that I suggest. I'm just trying to share ideas, cause you guys haven't been here in a long time, and things have changed. If you'd rather do something else, by all means. Do it."

"No, no! We really want to see the parade! It sounds great!"
Alright then.
Let's play nice

We made our way across the Hub, which felt like the surface of the sun. It was blistering hot out there!!!!
I dove in the door of Casey's Corner, and led everyone down Main Street via the air conditioned Emporium. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh!

Everyone browsed, and tempers cooled, along with core body temperatures. Funny, aint it?

We headed out to Town Square to find a spot, and realized we were missing four of our ten. Mutie had gotten a text that they went back to the castle for something, and they would find us. Um, ok.
Papa had to park in the scooter section, so we were right at the end of the parade route. There wasn't much shade, but we got a curbside spot.
This was a great viewing of FoF! We had tons of character interaction! Prince Phillip kissed Gwen's hand, Hatter asked if we were celebrating our UN-birthdays, but the very best moment was Ethan and The Lost Boys! They stopped and high-fived him and gave him a hard time for being dressed like a pirate. Then this:

Ethan "Hey! Your sword is wooden!"
Lost Boy "You're wooden!"
BOOM!
He got told

 

[fractal]

Following and enjoying the report! having to lead 10 people through MK - quite a job but seems like you were handling it well.