Trip Report Two broke guys & a dog (for the last time.) (now with Christmas 2024!)

No, I’m not mad at Disney. We’ll be back (in fact, it can’t be soon enough.) But this turned out to be our last trip together as a family.

Who: Brian (R) Tony (L) and Kylie.

When: May, 2023.

Can’t tease this, so I’ll just come out with it.

We’ve posted TRs over the years under the “Two broke guys & a dog” banner (and other titles.) Our May trip was short, and we had already booked August for my birthday (complete with a planned meet up with @Tuvalu) so I thought I’d make one double TR after August.

I ended up with Covid mid-month and we had to postpone to December for Brian’s birthday.

In the meantime, Kylie, our 14 year old German Shepherd/Chow Chow was diagnosed with heart failure. That “heads up” turned out to be a gift and a blessing that allowed us to spend so much extra quality time with her.

Kylie’s 14th bday on Halloween:

She stayed with us through the holidays, rubbing on the Christmas tree when she walked past it, per usual (like a cat lol) and was really doing well - eating, going for walks, snuggling. I expected more of a slow, gradual decline…but she passed yesterday. Now my heart is failing.

I don’t know how far I’ll get with this today. It might actually be too soon. But I thought it could be therapeutic, and a nice tribute.

For some reason, since my 30s, if I cry even a little, my eyelids swell up and it’s hard to undo. Ice helps only temporarily. I fear typing all this out will continue the waterworks (it already has) and prolong that condition. OTOH, they’re already swollen, so WTH? I’ll play it by ear, if that’s ok.

This is my love letter to my pup.

 

[ajrwdwgirl]

WinterSummerland is a fun mini-golf course. Nice choice in picking the winter side, I like that side better.

 

[Tony the Tigger]

Yayyy. Good job you!
I made a couple of LLane choices yesterday for the two days without our DD and SIL. She got up at 7 this morning to do all the rest of the week’s LL choices for us. She also made all our dinner reservations. I have the bestest daughter!
You two are going to have the best trip!!

I have not done any LL’s. Ever. Don’t even know how.

Now that I’m thinking about it, even the 16th & 17th are going to be busy.

We’ll see.

 

[93boomer]

I have not done any LL’s. Ever. Don’t even know how.

Now that I’m thinking about it, even the 16th & 17th are going to be busy.

We’ll see.

They do help if you don’t want to stay in line forever and want certain rides.

 

[Tony the Tigger]

They do help if you don’t want to stay in line forever and want certain rides.

Happy birthday!

 

[93boomer]

Happy birthday!

Sorry I just now saw this. Thank you so much!!

 

[Tony the Tigger]

Minor tentative update.

The DVC rental place popped up on FB, so I clicked on it. I submitted a request for AKL on the first trip, but it was quickly denied.

I then looked at the confirmed bookings and they had one at Old Key West resort for the 24th-26th, at the same price if not slightly less than what we are paying for Port Orleans. I thought that could be a nice upgrade, and would be convenient to take the boat to Disney Springs for Christmas Eve dinner.

This time the response took longer. They said it was available, but would stay on the market until I paid for it. Cool. But I had to reply to the email to do that, rather than just click to pay. I replied, but it’s not guaranteed until I close the deal tomorrow.

In the meantime, I thought we could use some new wheels for the trip, so I traded in my Honda Passport (bought during Covid when choices were few) for this much more lovable bright blue brand new fully loaded Kia Sportage! Merry early Christmas to me.

I love it! But I don’t know how to work half the features yet. The a/c keeps coming on when I am trying to turn up the volume on the stereo!

 

[Tony the Tigger]

I have to add: I’ve gotten more prone to getting easily choked up again. The more I think about Christmas, the more I think about my Kylie. The more I miss her.

I feel like we have 3 more days to get through - Christmas (at WDW) New Year’s (we expect Brian will be working that night. Depending how late, I’ll either go where he works before midnight, or probably get a local room again if he gets out before midnight) and January 13 - the one year anniversary. That happens to be a typical WDW week for us, so we’ll see.

I intend to re-read this whole thread that day, and then completely put it to bed. Time to start a new one.

I hope it’s not unrealistic to think I’ll feel better after that - less top of mind - more open to a new adoptee.

Right now…without any discussion, neither of us have made a move to put the tree up. On one hand, I don’t want to open boxes and find her things. (OK, that just made me cry.) OTOH, I want to bring them to WDW for our Disney tree and turn it into a happy thing.

And that’s enough of that for now. Sorry.

(At my old store several years ago.)

 

[Swissmiss]

You are still going through all the "firsts". They are hard. After you‘ve made it through them, it will (slowly) get easier.

 

[MinnieM123]

You are still going through all the "firsts". They are hard. After you‘ve made it through them, it will (slowly) get easier.

@Tony the Tigger , Swissmiss has it right (above). Couldn't have expressed my views any better. Wishing you and Brian the happiest holiday season, with new experiences, and fond memories as well.

 

[ajrwdwgirl]

I have to add: I’ve gotten more prone to getting easily choked up again. The more I think about Christmas, the more I think about my Kylie. The more I miss her.

I feel like we have 3 more days to get through - Christmas (at WDW) New Year’s (we expect Brian will be working that night. Depending how late, I’ll either go where he works before midnight, or probably get a local room again if he gets out before midnight) and January 13 - the one year anniversary. That happens to be a typical WDW week for us, so we’ll see.

I intend to re-read this whole thread that day, and then completely put it to bed. Time to start a new one.

I hope it’s not unrealistic to think I’ll feel better after that - less top of mind - more open to a new adoptee.

Right now…without any discussion, neither of us have made a move to put the tree up. On one hand, I don’t want to open boxes and find her things. (OK, that just made me cry.) OTOH, I want to bring them to WDW for our Disney tree and turn it into a happy thing.

And that’s enough of that for now. Sorry.

View attachment 829908
(At my old store several years ago.)

I understand how you feel. I lost my sweet pup, Kapono, a few months before you lost your Kylie. It is hard to see their things. I finally packed up her harnesses and sweaters a couple months ago.

 

[luvinthemajik]

Minor tentative update.

The DVC rental place popped up on FB, so I clicked on it. I submitted a request for AKL on the first trip, but it was quickly denied.

I then looked at the confirmed bookings and they had one at Old Key West resort for the 24th-26th, at the same price if not slightly less than what we are paying for Port Orleans. I thought that could be a nice upgrade, and would be convenient to take the boat to Disney Springs for Christmas Eve dinner.

This time the response took longer. They said it was available, but would stay on the market until I paid for it. Cool. But I had to reply to the email to do that, rather than just click to pay. I replied, but it’s not guaranteed until I close the deal tomorrow.

In the meantime, I thought we could use some new wheels for the trip, so I traded in my Honda Passport (bought during Covid when choices were few) for this much more lovable bright blue brand new fully loaded Kia Sportage! Merry early Christmas to me.

View attachment 829906

I love it! But I don’t know how to work half the features yet. The a/c keeps coming on when I am trying to turn up the volume on the stereo!

Nothing like bright, brand new and fully loaded!!
Congratulations

 

[93boomer]

I have to add: I’ve gotten more prone to getting easily choked up again. The more I think about Christmas, the more I think about my Kylie. The more I miss her.

I feel like we have 3 more days to get through - Christmas (at WDW) New Year’s (we expect Brian will be working that night. Depending how late, I’ll either go where he works before midnight, or probably get a local room again if he gets out before midnight) and January 13 - the one year anniversary. That happens to be a typical WDW week for us, so we’ll see.

I intend to re-read this whole thread that day, and then completely put it to bed. Time to start a new one.

I hope it’s not unrealistic to think I’ll feel better after that - less top of mind - more open to a new adoptee.

Right now…without any discussion, neither of us have made a move to put the tree up. On one hand, I don’t want to open boxes and find her things. (OK, that just made me cry.) OTOH, I want to bring them to WDW for our Disney tree and turn it into a happy thing.

And that’s enough of that for now. Sorry.

View attachment 829908
(At my old store several years ago.)

Believe me it takes awhile. Sometimes it comes in waves. Hugs!!

 

[Tony the Tigger]

Whoooey, I had a moment last night, didn’t I?

I’ve always thought this TR was documenting my feelings. Didn’t think it would run a year, but that makes sense.

Since none of you said the DVC rental would be a terrible idea: they responded this morning, I’ve made payment, just waiting for the paperwork to get done. I’ll confirm when it’s a done deal.

How about that for Christmas magic? We love Port Orleans, and it has a nice, cozy feel - but we’ve stayed there twice recently, gone to NOLA extra recently, and one of our fave NOLA chefs lives here now. Never thought I’d say this, but I’m a little jambalaya’d out(!)

Our one and only time at Old Key West had to be around a decade ago. Olivia’s will make a great breakfast on our day of departure - which we rarely get to do. And I do love the boat to Christmas Eve dinner idea. (Sans horse poop! Who needs a carriage ride, anyway, Port Orleans? )

I think I’ll keep this a secret from Brian for now. Not sure if it’ll even make a difference to him. But there will be a little more room for the 6 1/2’ Christmas tree!

We will have to bring our tree down from the attic. I will need access to certain things. We’ve been busy, and physically impaired. My recoveries are going well, I should be able to resume light exercise shortly. I’ve stopped wearing the braces a little early. Should be able to get the stuff down by myself.

Brian is still in a good bit of pain, and it’s not as easily diagnosed. His back surgery did not help his leg pain. His nerve study was inconclusive because of his diabetic neuropathy. So the next steps to explore will be neurological. Yesterday, he had cataract surgery on one eye. It’s still dilated, but we’re hoping he’ll see better once that’s back to normal!

 

[93boomer]

Whoooey, I had a moment last night, didn’t I?

I’ve always thought this TR was documenting my feelings. Didn’t think it would run a year, but that makes sense.

Since none of you said the DVC rental would be a terrible idea: they responded this morning, I’ve made payment, just waiting for the paperwork to get done. I’ll confirm when it’s a done deal.

How about that for Christmas magic? We love Port Orleans, and it has a nice, cozy feel - but we’ve stayed there twice recently, gone to NOLA extra recently, and one of our fave NOLA chefs lives here now. Never thought I’d say this, but I’m a little jambalaya’d out(!)

Our one and only time at Old Key West had to be around a decade ago. Olivia’s will make a great breakfast on our day of departure - which we rarely get to do. And I do love the boat to Christmas Eve dinner idea. (Sans horse poop! Who needs a carriage ride, anyway, Port Orleans? )

I think I’ll keep this a secret from Brian for now. Not sure if it’ll even make a difference to him. But there will be a little more room for the 6 1/2’ Christmas tree!

We will have to bring our tree down from the attic. I will need access to certain things. We’ve been busy, and physically impaired. My recoveries are going well, I should be able to resume light exercise shortly. I’ve stopped wearing the braces a little early. Should be able to get the stuff down by myself.

Brian is still in a good bit of pain, and it’s not as easily diagnosed. His back surgery did not help his leg pain. His nerve study was inconclusive because of his diabetic neuropathy. So the next steps to explore will be neurological. Yesterday, he had cataract surgery on one eye. It’s still dilated, but we’re hoping he’ll see better once that’s back to normal!

Yeah we’re at POR right now and had to dodge that horse poo several times in the dark!
Hope you both recover quickly!

 

[cgersic]

Love the new wheels! Same color as my Honda CRV I agree with everyone else's comments about Kylie, and how it's just going to take some time and going through the "firsts". It took me getting a new pup to realize that it was time to accept the facts and heartbreak, and give a new adoptee a forever home. On an offbeat note, I thought of you this past weekend when I was helping a friend clean out her mom's house (she passed 2 years ago). She has an original Victrola with easily 100 records (78, one sided), the oldest one we found so far was recorded in 1901. I'm curious if you have idea what we should do with these things? The Victrola works 100% - we even turned it on while we were working! Blessings to you and Brian this holiday season and I can't wait to read all about it!

 

[Tony the Tigger]

Same color as my Honda CRV

Almost got that! “Still Night” blue vs. Kia’s “Sapphire” blue.

It came down to price & features / what was available on the lot at the moment.

If the first Honda I test drove had a better stereo, I would have bought it. Since I didn’t, I looked around a bit, and a few people recommended the Kia. They don’t have the Honda reputation, but I got more features (and a better stereo) for less money, and the 10 year/100,000 mile power train warranty is reassuring.

But I like them both, and thought the hybrid AWD Honda had the smoothest ride.

Re: 78’s: be careful, they break very easily.

From what I understand, it’s the later ones that have value - early rock n roll (Elvis) jazz like Miles Davis (as opposed to the older big band stuff.) If you have any like that, I can help you value them.

Also:

That’s hot.

 

[Zipadeelady]

Almost got that! “Still Night” blue vs. Kia’s “Sapphire” blue.

It came down to price & features / what was available on the lot at the moment.

If the first Honda I test drove had a better stereo, I would have bought it. Since I didn’t, I looked around a bit, and a few people recommended the Kia. They don’t have the Honda reputation, but I got more features (and a better stereo) for less money, and the 10 year/100,000 mile power train warranty is reassuring.

But I like them both, and thought the hybrid AWD Honda had the smoothest ride.

Re: 78’s: be careful, they break very easily.

From what I understand, it’s the later ones that have value - early rock n roll (Elvis) jazz like Miles Davis (as opposed to the older big band stuff.) If you have any like that, I can help you value them.

Also:

View attachment 829985

That’s hot.

 

[93boomer]

Almost got that! “Still Night” blue vs. Kia’s “Sapphire” blue.

It came down to price & features / what was available on the lot at the moment.

If the first Honda I test drove had a better stereo, I would have bought it. Since I didn’t, I looked around a bit, and a few people recommended the Kia. They don’t have the Honda reputation, but I got more features (and a better stereo) for less money, and the 10 year/100,000 mile power train warranty is reassuring.

But I like them both, and thought the hybrid AWD Honda had the smoothest ride.

Re: 78’s: be careful, they break very easily.

From what I understand, it’s the later ones that have value - early rock n roll (Elvis) jazz like Miles Davis (as opposed to the older big band stuff.) If you have any like that, I can help you value them.

Also:

View attachment 829985

That’s hot.

I do love the color. Don’t know much about cars. I own a dodge ram and two jeeps.