EMHam for Magic Kingdom. Up and out by 7.10 and still managed to miss the opening with Mickey. We were having breakfast at Chef Mickey's at the Contemporary at 10am so we decided to park there since we would be leaving the park right after breakfast. Rather then walking (which I suggested) Patrick wanted to take the monorail since we wouldn't have another chance this week. It's about a 7 or 8 minute ride around the lake which still gets us to the entrance by 7.30 - still plenty of time to see Mickey and all his friends come into Main Street on the train and do their opening show
So how'd we miss it??? We got stuck :( Not even a minute or two after we left the Contemporary and about 2 to 3 monorail lengths to the Ticket and Transportation Centre we stopped. A few minutes ticked by and an announcement was made that we were waiting for the monorail in front of us to move past the station. More minutes and more minutes. We finally started moving, filled up at the TTC, Poly and Floridian before reaching MK at...... 8.00 on the dot. Not bad for getting to the park when it opened but we missed Mickey.
On the plus side we walked in and had 2 photographers take our pics in front of the castle. one right by the statue of Mickey and Walt and one half way up Main street
Being that it was EMHam for resort guests we pretty much walked on to Snow White, It's A Small World, Peter Pan, Philharmagic, had our picture taken with Snow White then waited a few minutes for Frontierland to open at 9am and while every single person in that huge crowd was heading to Splash Mountain, we turned left at the base of it and walked onto Pirates, and Jungle Cruise before leaving for our 10.30 reservations at Chef Mickey's
Breakfast was very nice. We didn't have to wait long before being shown to our seat which happened to be only 2 tables along from where we sat last year. When we left I did ask how to get into a different section the next time we come and was told the section we'd like is called the "Cove".
We weren't sitting long before the music started playing, napkins started waving and Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and Pluto came out to great their guests. After meeting with the "fab five" we took our time with breakfast finished up around 11.30.
Knowing that we wouldn't be spending a lot of time back a resort before heading over to Epcot for dinner at Chef de France at 4.40. I dn't want to head back too soon since I knew Cassie would want to go swimming so we wondered around the Contemporary for a little bit before heading out.
We arrived back at the French Quarter, showered, changed and headed over to Epcot. This time we took the Disney bus (the first and only time this trip) thinking it would be easier but turns out Epcot is not the park to take the bus to since the bus makes several stops at Port Orleans Riverside after picking us up before heading to Epcot then the bus stop is just as far if not further then we would have been if we walked so we didn`t save time or distance taking the bus.
During the walk in we tried to hide as much as we could in the shade and arrived in France about 4pm. The first time we`d actually be on time for a reservation this trip. I tried checking us in but found out that they actually close after lunch and don`t reopen again until 4.30 so we decided to buy Cassandra a parasol. She chose a dark pink one and we had the castle, a pair of ballet shoes and a ballerina painted on along with her name. She loves it.
Not too much longer of a wait and it was time to check in to Chef de France and before long our name was called and we were seated. Our seats weren't in the main restaurant but in the covered porch area. A nice place in the winter I'm sure but pretty hot in the summer. Our server was from Paris and very nice.
Being in France I ordered the French Onion Soup for my starter as did Patrick. Cassandra had the cheese pastry which was good but she didn't eat much of it. Both Patrick and Cassie ordered fish for their main course, Patrick's being Salmon and Cassie's being a white fish (sorry don't remember which one). I had roasted chicken. I do wish I liked different foods because I eat a lot of chicken but that's just me. Cassandra is becoming a finicky eater. It used to be easy to get her to eat but not we have to play all kinds of games to get food in her belly and tonight was no exception. Close your eyes and guess what you're eating. From bread to fish and even some of my potatoes and Patrick's salmon. Eventually she had enough to fill her little belly.
Dessert was delicious. Patrick ordered the puffs with cream and chocolate while I had creme brulee (shocking i know) and Cassie shared from both.
During coffee you'll never guess who came for a visit. Our chef. Remy. Yes that's right. We had a visit from the most important chef in Epcot. Though he didn't say much he did pose for pictures and had a few words for us, unfortunately we don't speak mice and Mickey wasn't around to translate so we just nodded and smiled.
With dinner finished it was time to walk around and we headed through the UK and stopped to listen to "The Beatles" for a spell then headed for the front where the wait times are posted.
Wait times for Soarin and Test track were almost 2 hours so we gave up on that idea and instead walked on to Spaceship Earth and Nemo. Cassie had a little bit of a melt down right after getting on the Nemo ride. My fault really. She got on with Patrick and I tried to take a picture of the two of them on their shell car. Before I knew it the people behind us had filled up the next 3 or 4 cars and i jumped on an empty one but by then Cassie was in full hysterics because she thought she was leaving without me not understanding I was just a few cars behind her. Within a few seconds she was screaming for me and trying to jump out of her car. The attendants said i couldn't go grab her which made her scream even more and Patrick lifted her out and I was able to get her. This of course stopped the ride and they were not happy but it's not the first time we've been on rides that have stopped for longer for whatever reason and at least she was now with me. Won't be making that mistake again and she'll always sit in my car if it's just for 2. By the time they ride started up again a few minutes later she was fine and off we went into the deep blue sea.
After Nemo it was time for Illuminations which started at 9pm. Rather then going into the World Showcase again we chose to cop-a-squat in front of the fountian to watch them over the monorail track. We couldn't see the show that happens on the lake or hear the music but we did have a nice view of the fireworks.
When it was done we were about to leave but saw that Spaceship Earth was empty and since Cassandra LOVES that ride we headed back in. She even picked out the details for the little video at the end. After that we left. Cassie was sleeping before we got out of the parking lot.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Monday, July 26, 2010
Monday - Hollywood Studios and ?????
We had decided months ago that since we were heading for Hollywood Studios for the Extra Magic Hours am that we would have Mickey D's for breakfast. We then off to Hollywood Studios
Arrived 10 minutes after the early opening for resort guests and headed straight for Toy Story Mania. The posted wait was 30 minutes - the shortest time we would see all day so we waited. It didn't take long to get inside to the cool refreshing AC room. by the time we got to the actual ride the wait had been 35 minutes. Not bad.
Cassandra did very well with a score of 16400. Patrick got 117500 not bad but I WON with 157400 :)
Next we headed over to Honey I Shrunk the Audience and Cassie played with the over sized items including a HUGE ant she jumped on and rode. Although this was a fun area for Cassie there wasn't any places to sit for the parents and the temperature was raising so we shortened the time there and asked where Cassie wanted to go next.
Cassie specifically asked to go on the Movie Ride which we did next. There was a small change in the cast participation then last year but the ride is always a good one. We did want to go see both the Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast but then since the line for Little Mermaid was so long we went to see Beauty and the Beast instead.
We wanted to go into Orlando for a few items that the gift shops charges a fortune for but we should have saved lunch for when we returned. Instead we stopped into Pizza Hut and were thoroughly disappointed. Over cooked pizza that tasted like cardboard :( Oh well.
Back to get ready to go to Animal Kingdom for EMHpm........ not so fast. It was hot, we were tired and Cassie wanted to swim so we decided to skip it and opted for a few hours in Port Orleans Riverside Pool where we all enjoyed going down the slide.
Arrived 10 minutes after the early opening for resort guests and headed straight for Toy Story Mania. The posted wait was 30 minutes - the shortest time we would see all day so we waited. It didn't take long to get inside to the cool refreshing AC room. by the time we got to the actual ride the wait had been 35 minutes. Not bad.
Cassandra did very well with a score of 16400. Patrick got 117500 not bad but I WON with 157400 :)
Next we headed over to Honey I Shrunk the Audience and Cassie played with the over sized items including a HUGE ant she jumped on and rode. Although this was a fun area for Cassie there wasn't any places to sit for the parents and the temperature was raising so we shortened the time there and asked where Cassie wanted to go next.
Cassie specifically asked to go on the Movie Ride which we did next. There was a small change in the cast participation then last year but the ride is always a good one. We did want to go see both the Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast but then since the line for Little Mermaid was so long we went to see Beauty and the Beast instead.
We wanted to go into Orlando for a few items that the gift shops charges a fortune for but we should have saved lunch for when we returned. Instead we stopped into Pizza Hut and were thoroughly disappointed. Over cooked pizza that tasted like cardboard :( Oh well.
Back to get ready to go to Animal Kingdom for EMHpm........ not so fast. It was hot, we were tired and Cassie wanted to swim so we decided to skip it and opted for a few hours in Port Orleans Riverside Pool where we all enjoyed going down the slide.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Sunday - Magic Kingdom and Hollywood studios
We were expecting Magic Kingdom to be packed as every crowd predictor said the weeks in the summer would be a 9 or 10 but in reality it was more like a 6 or 7. Busy but not wall to wall and most ride lines were doable.
We had breakfast reservations in Cinderella's Castle at 8.30 and arrived about 8.15. We've never been in to parks before it was officially open and weren't sure where to go but in a few minutes we found the entrance for breakfast guests and walked straight in with a few other people who also had reservations. It was amazing to see the Castle alone. I even got some pictures with Cassie in front of it with no one around. How magical is that. Before long we were checked in and standing beside Cinderella herself who was with another family just on the other side of a divider rope. Cassie was mesmerized and didn't even hear the attendant ask her to come around to meet Cinderella. I held her hand and guided her around the rope and just like last year Cinderella actually had to come get her and take her to where the pictures are taken. Cinderella seems to be the only one to make Cassie go into this trance. It's cute to see.
After our picture we took to the narrow circular stair case and headed up stairs to the dining room. We were luck this time and got a table beside the window. Makes for better pictures when the sun is shining on the faces and not creating shadows. We informed our server (as we did with all of them) that Cassie has nut allergies and as protocol at Disney, the head chef came out to speak with us about what she can order and what we should stay away from. This time however the chef said he would personally make her breakfast and then delivered it to her himself. Cassie thought that was wonderful. Before long we were in the presence of Royalty. Princess Aurora was the first to arrive at our table followed by, for the first time (at least for us) Ariel, Belle and Jasmin. They were all wonderful and liked Cassandra's dress.
This was the first time we had breakfast at the castle and were very pleased with what was offered. I chose the cheese stuffed french toast with a very nice fruit compote and whipped cream. Patrick chose a traditional eggs, bacon and sausage breakfast. Cassie's personal chef made her waffles, eggs, a no nut chocolate muffin, sausages and bacon.
With breakfast finished we headed out to see what the lines would be for the rides. We only waited a few minutes to get into Mickey's Philharmagic 3D movie. Cassie loves this movie but the scene with Aladdin zooming through the city always makes me feel sick so I close my eyes during that part.
On to Cinderella's carousal. Cassie likes this ride and again the line was very small and needed to wait until the ride finished with the group before them and off they went. While Patrick and Cassie were on the ride I watched Lady Tremaine and her daughters Anastasia and Drusilla walk around, pushing their way through the people, and at one point one of the sisters was totally obnoxious screaming for her mummy while the other one hit on every guy in the square. Shameful I tell ya. (for those who don't know they would be Cinderella's Step mother and sisters)
We headed over to the It's a Small World with a 5 minute wait followed by Haunted Mansion which was about a 2 minute wait and the Hall of Presidents with a 2 or 3 minute wait. By now it was about noon and close to 100 degrees so we went over to check the lines for Splash Mountain. No surprise, the stand by line was almost 2 hours long. Ahhhh, no thanks. So we headed up to Main Street to do some wishful shopping. While we were in one of the shops the Barber Shop Quartet stopped in for show. I wish the batteries in my camera didn't die because they were fantastic. I did manage to get about 1 minute of video of them. We didn't plan on seeing any of the mid afternoon parades because of the heat, but, we were in luck. Just as we were getting ready to leave the cool safety of the shops on Main Street the afternoon parade was heading up Main Street, so we crossed the road and waited. It was fun, nothing special but nice to see.
After all that we headed back to the monorail for a quick trip around the lake to the Poly Resort and the Kona Cafe for lunch. We like this restaurant and had a nice lunch. Patrick had the chicken pita with pasta salad while I had the mango chicken and Cassandra had yogurt with strawberries.
Back to the resort for a swim. Cassandra loved the French Quarter pool and slide so much we couldn't drag Cassie away to get ready for Fantasmic but finally did. Thought it started at 8pm but they must have changed the times and we were lucky to find out it started at 9am. Front row seats.
Brazilian groups took up about 75% of the 8600 seats. It was fun watching them start the wave - they changed it up with different moves and dances not just the regular stand up sit down.
Fantasmic was good as usual and Cassie was asleep before we even got out of the main entrance to the show. There was another show at 10pm but unlike last year where the line up for the second show went all the way back to the main street, around the corner and half way to the main gate, this year we couldn't even see a line for the second show.
We had breakfast reservations in Cinderella's Castle at 8.30 and arrived about 8.15. We've never been in to parks before it was officially open and weren't sure where to go but in a few minutes we found the entrance for breakfast guests and walked straight in with a few other people who also had reservations. It was amazing to see the Castle alone. I even got some pictures with Cassie in front of it with no one around. How magical is that. Before long we were checked in and standing beside Cinderella herself who was with another family just on the other side of a divider rope. Cassie was mesmerized and didn't even hear the attendant ask her to come around to meet Cinderella. I held her hand and guided her around the rope and just like last year Cinderella actually had to come get her and take her to where the pictures are taken. Cinderella seems to be the only one to make Cassie go into this trance. It's cute to see.
After our picture we took to the narrow circular stair case and headed up stairs to the dining room. We were luck this time and got a table beside the window. Makes for better pictures when the sun is shining on the faces and not creating shadows. We informed our server (as we did with all of them) that Cassie has nut allergies and as protocol at Disney, the head chef came out to speak with us about what she can order and what we should stay away from. This time however the chef said he would personally make her breakfast and then delivered it to her himself. Cassie thought that was wonderful. Before long we were in the presence of Royalty. Princess Aurora was the first to arrive at our table followed by, for the first time (at least for us) Ariel, Belle and Jasmin. They were all wonderful and liked Cassandra's dress.
This was the first time we had breakfast at the castle and were very pleased with what was offered. I chose the cheese stuffed french toast with a very nice fruit compote and whipped cream. Patrick chose a traditional eggs, bacon and sausage breakfast. Cassie's personal chef made her waffles, eggs, a no nut chocolate muffin, sausages and bacon.
With breakfast finished we headed out to see what the lines would be for the rides. We only waited a few minutes to get into Mickey's Philharmagic 3D movie. Cassie loves this movie but the scene with Aladdin zooming through the city always makes me feel sick so I close my eyes during that part.
On to Cinderella's carousal. Cassie likes this ride and again the line was very small and needed to wait until the ride finished with the group before them and off they went. While Patrick and Cassie were on the ride I watched Lady Tremaine and her daughters Anastasia and Drusilla walk around, pushing their way through the people, and at one point one of the sisters was totally obnoxious screaming for her mummy while the other one hit on every guy in the square. Shameful I tell ya. (for those who don't know they would be Cinderella's Step mother and sisters)
We headed over to the It's a Small World with a 5 minute wait followed by Haunted Mansion which was about a 2 minute wait and the Hall of Presidents with a 2 or 3 minute wait. By now it was about noon and close to 100 degrees so we went over to check the lines for Splash Mountain. No surprise, the stand by line was almost 2 hours long. Ahhhh, no thanks. So we headed up to Main Street to do some wishful shopping. While we were in one of the shops the Barber Shop Quartet stopped in for show. I wish the batteries in my camera didn't die because they were fantastic. I did manage to get about 1 minute of video of them. We didn't plan on seeing any of the mid afternoon parades because of the heat, but, we were in luck. Just as we were getting ready to leave the cool safety of the shops on Main Street the afternoon parade was heading up Main Street, so we crossed the road and waited. It was fun, nothing special but nice to see.
After all that we headed back to the monorail for a quick trip around the lake to the Poly Resort and the Kona Cafe for lunch. We like this restaurant and had a nice lunch. Patrick had the chicken pita with pasta salad while I had the mango chicken and Cassandra had yogurt with strawberries.
Back to the resort for a swim. Cassandra loved the French Quarter pool and slide so much we couldn't drag Cassie away to get ready for Fantasmic but finally did. Thought it started at 8pm but they must have changed the times and we were lucky to find out it started at 9am. Front row seats.
Brazilian groups took up about 75% of the 8600 seats. It was fun watching them start the wave - they changed it up with different moves and dances not just the regular stand up sit down.
Fantasmic was good as usual and Cassie was asleep before we even got out of the main entrance to the show. There was another show at 10pm but unlike last year where the line up for the second show went all the way back to the main street, around the corner and half way to the main gate, this year we couldn't even see a line for the second show.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Saturday - Mini golf, afternoon tea and 5 star dinner
After a late night last night I had a feeling Cassandra was going to be hard to wake up and yes I was right. Although once she was up she was fine. We had 8am reservations at the Kona Cafe for breakfast. Those who know it love it. We arrived in outfit number 1 around 8.10. (a pattern is emerging that I'm not liking). Cassie usually picks the pancakes for breakfast and at the Kona Cafe they make them into Mickey heads, but this morning she choose Minnie's Favourite French Toast. A yummy cinnamon french toast. The last time we were there I ordered the Tonga Toast. mmmmmmm. This morning was no exception and I converted Patrick too. He also ordered it and loved it. For those who don't know, Tonga Toast is a yummy sour dough bread stuffed with bananas, dipped in the egg batter and fried up, then sprinkled with cinnamon sugar and served with a tasty raspberry coulis.
After breakfast we stopped into the gift shop, I know, you're all shocked, headed back to the resort to grab a shower and get changed (outfit number 2). then off to play an round of 18 hole mini golf at the Fantasia Gardens Min Golf course. It's a fun course based on the Mickey Mouse movie Fantasia. We arrived just about 10.30. We were at hole 3 when it started to rain. Some others ran for cover but we just kept playing. We knew it wasn't going to last and it would be refreshing while it lasted. True to Florida rain form it was over before we sank the last ball in the hole. Off we went to play the rest of the holes, grateful for hole #9 which takes you through a coolish cave with a slight breeze, then back out into the sun for the rest of the holes. When all was said and done, Cassandra got two - yes thats 2 holes in 1. To rub that in to mummy and daddy's 3, 4, 5 over par she offered to show us how it was done :)
We had a video date at 12.30 and headed back to our resort after the game to call mom and dad on Skype to have a nice video confab with them and Uncle Keith. After that call we called Patricks mom using Skype and chatted for a while.
We had 2pm reservations for Afternoon Tea at the Grand Floridian Resort. This is becoming a tradition with us and Cassie loves it. She feels like a big girl ordering her special tea. We left our resort and managed to make a wrong turn before the GPS kicked and and redirected us to the right road and we arrived at 2.15 (see the pattern). No problems as the restaurant wasn`t too busy and we were escorted to our table pretty quickly. I knew from last year what I wanted as did Patrick and we were quick to order the Buckingham Palace tea which included 5 mini sandwiches, a scone with jam and a raspberry tart and finally a choice of either strawberries and cream or 2 mini pastries. My choice for tea was a lovely blend called Eros. I`m going to return sometime this week and pick up a canister to take home. Cassandra`s allergies to nuts lead to the chef coming out to talk to us about what she could have. He made ham and cheese for her and she was happy. Her `special` tea was Apple Tea (or for you and me - apple juice. I don`t think this ``special tea`` will work the next time because she`s getting wise to the fact that it`s ``not tea`` ) She was happy that she got to pour it through the strainer like mummy and daddy did though so all was well.
After tea we headed off property to the Bass Pro shop to pick up some chillie pads (lets hope they live up to their ``whisk away the heat`` claim) and a few things at Walmart before heading back in to our resort for a shower and change our clothes (if you`re counting with me that`s 3) and off to dinner at Citricos at the Grand Floridian. After tea we had changed our reservations from 7pm to 7.50. We just thought it would be too close to having tea and thought the little bit extra time would be better and yet it's not too late for Cassie. Well we arrived at 8.05 (there's that pesky pattern again) and found out that for some reason the cast member who had changed our reservations didn't push save so it still showed us at 7pm and therefore cancelled us out after 7.20 as no shows. Hummmm. I have the new confirmation number, but it wasn't necessary as she put us in as walk ins and we were shown to our seats a few minutes later.
We were given a very nice table and server. Our view was of the lake, pool and just over to the left we will be able to see something special in about 2 hours. When our server gave us our menu I was pleasantly surprised to see it was a personalized menu with "Happy Anniversary Karen and Patrick" written on it. We chose that restaurant to celebrate our 6th anniversary which i had actually forgotten I had done until we were shown our table and given the menus. When I made the reservations online that in the section that asks if we are celebrating anything I put our anniversary. We decided to enjoy our dinner with all the courses offered we both chose something from the salad, soup, main and dessert courses. For our first selection Patrick chose Arancini, a crispy risotto with crimini mushrooms, asiago and charred tomato coulis. I chose the duck confit, smoked duck breast with tomato and egg fettuccini
Next up was Florida yellow tomato gazpacho with citrus infused blue lump crab and grape tomatoes for Patrick and Buffalo mozzarella, serrano ham and heirloom tomatoes for me. Both courses were delicious.
Our main course consisted of Oak-grilled Atlantic swordfish with spring vegetable crepes, Florida corn coulis and soffrito for Patrick while I enjoyed the roast chicken breast with roasted mushroom risotto Madeira demi-glace.
Cassandra's chose was Mickey Mac & Cheese but she didn't eat it. They then made her a grilled cheese but she didn't eat it. She just didn't seem to be hungry.
Our dessert was wonderfully presented. I have forgotten what their names were because they aren't on our keepsake menu but Patrick order a lovely moca moose and I had a beautiful light lemon cheesecake.
Just as we started on our dessert that "something special" started to come into view. "Look Cassandra, Fireworks" It was the Nightastic Firework display at the Magic Kingdom.
Cassie thought it was fantastic that our server made the fireworks go off just for us to see while we had dessert ;)
After breakfast we stopped into the gift shop, I know, you're all shocked, headed back to the resort to grab a shower and get changed (outfit number 2). then off to play an round of 18 hole mini golf at the Fantasia Gardens Min Golf course. It's a fun course based on the Mickey Mouse movie Fantasia. We arrived just about 10.30. We were at hole 3 when it started to rain. Some others ran for cover but we just kept playing. We knew it wasn't going to last and it would be refreshing while it lasted. True to Florida rain form it was over before we sank the last ball in the hole. Off we went to play the rest of the holes, grateful for hole #9 which takes you through a coolish cave with a slight breeze, then back out into the sun for the rest of the holes. When all was said and done, Cassandra got two - yes thats 2 holes in 1. To rub that in to mummy and daddy's 3, 4, 5 over par she offered to show us how it was done :)
We had a video date at 12.30 and headed back to our resort after the game to call mom and dad on Skype to have a nice video confab with them and Uncle Keith. After that call we called Patricks mom using Skype and chatted for a while.
We had 2pm reservations for Afternoon Tea at the Grand Floridian Resort. This is becoming a tradition with us and Cassie loves it. She feels like a big girl ordering her special tea. We left our resort and managed to make a wrong turn before the GPS kicked and and redirected us to the right road and we arrived at 2.15 (see the pattern). No problems as the restaurant wasn`t too busy and we were escorted to our table pretty quickly. I knew from last year what I wanted as did Patrick and we were quick to order the Buckingham Palace tea which included 5 mini sandwiches, a scone with jam and a raspberry tart and finally a choice of either strawberries and cream or 2 mini pastries. My choice for tea was a lovely blend called Eros. I`m going to return sometime this week and pick up a canister to take home. Cassandra`s allergies to nuts lead to the chef coming out to talk to us about what she could have. He made ham and cheese for her and she was happy. Her `special` tea was Apple Tea (or for you and me - apple juice. I don`t think this ``special tea`` will work the next time because she`s getting wise to the fact that it`s ``not tea`` ) She was happy that she got to pour it through the strainer like mummy and daddy did though so all was well.
After tea we headed off property to the Bass Pro shop to pick up some chillie pads (lets hope they live up to their ``whisk away the heat`` claim) and a few things at Walmart before heading back in to our resort for a shower and change our clothes (if you`re counting with me that`s 3) and off to dinner at Citricos at the Grand Floridian. After tea we had changed our reservations from 7pm to 7.50. We just thought it would be too close to having tea and thought the little bit extra time would be better and yet it's not too late for Cassie. Well we arrived at 8.05 (there's that pesky pattern again) and found out that for some reason the cast member who had changed our reservations didn't push save so it still showed us at 7pm and therefore cancelled us out after 7.20 as no shows. Hummmm. I have the new confirmation number, but it wasn't necessary as she put us in as walk ins and we were shown to our seats a few minutes later.
We were given a very nice table and server. Our view was of the lake, pool and just over to the left we will be able to see something special in about 2 hours. When our server gave us our menu I was pleasantly surprised to see it was a personalized menu with "Happy Anniversary Karen and Patrick" written on it. We chose that restaurant to celebrate our 6th anniversary which i had actually forgotten I had done until we were shown our table and given the menus. When I made the reservations online that in the section that asks if we are celebrating anything I put our anniversary. We decided to enjoy our dinner with all the courses offered we both chose something from the salad, soup, main and dessert courses. For our first selection Patrick chose Arancini, a crispy risotto with crimini mushrooms, asiago and charred tomato coulis. I chose the duck confit, smoked duck breast with tomato and egg fettuccini
Next up was Florida yellow tomato gazpacho with citrus infused blue lump crab and grape tomatoes for Patrick and Buffalo mozzarella, serrano ham and heirloom tomatoes for me. Both courses were delicious.
Our main course consisted of Oak-grilled Atlantic swordfish with spring vegetable crepes, Florida corn coulis and soffrito for Patrick while I enjoyed the roast chicken breast with roasted mushroom risotto Madeira demi-glace.
Cassandra's chose was Mickey Mac & Cheese but she didn't eat it. They then made her a grilled cheese but she didn't eat it. She just didn't seem to be hungry.
Our dessert was wonderfully presented. I have forgotten what their names were because they aren't on our keepsake menu but Patrick order a lovely moca moose and I had a beautiful light lemon cheesecake.
Just as we started on our dessert that "something special" started to come into view. "Look Cassandra, Fireworks" It was the Nightastic Firework display at the Magic Kingdom.
Cassie thought it was fantastic that our server made the fireworks go off just for us to see while we had dessert ;)
Friday, July 23, 2010
Friday - Its DISNEY DAY
Today started out pretty good, kinda sucked in the middle that got good again.
Since we didn't like the breakfast in the hotel we had decided to wake up a little early so we could get some Mickey D's on the way out of Savannah. We went through the drive through and off we went. It was a beautiful drive and we were due in to Patrick's aunt Carroll around 12.30. We made a few stops for gas and got to Carrolls around 12.45. Pretty good timing for a Friday.
Our visit with Carroll was very nice. We had asked her not to go to any trouble for us but she did offer us some lunch and drinks. We chatted, had lunch and then went down to the lake to feed the fish. Well turns out the fish weren't hungry but the ducks were and before long we had 4 ducks of all different colours begging for bread. Cassie had a wonderful time feeding them and then the 3 geese who swam up about 10 minutes later asking for.... no demanding they be fed. Before long we were back in the house and Cassie was playing with her poodle Bella.
We stayed until about 4.30 then thought we would make really good time to get to Disney World. We had dinner reservations at Capt'n Jacks, which is located at Downtown Disney. A mere 10 minute boat ride from our resort - Port Orleans French Quarter. Since Carroll is only little more then an hour to and hour and a half from Disney we thought we'd have plenty of time to check in, unpack, shower and change before heading down for our reservation. Life had other plans......
This was the very first time my GPS failed me. And really through no fault of the actual GPS. As it turns out, Carroll lives off the beaten path and most of the roads leading up to her place aren't really roads but rather sand dunes. Apparently this year is a pretty bad year for the depth of the sand. We arrived with no problems but when we left our GPS said the fastes route to Disney was to turn left instead of going straight. Before long we were stuck. Turns out the "fastest" route is also a car trap. If one has a 4x4 then by all means turn left but for us lowly folk who only have 2 wheel drive stick to the long route.
2 hours later and several attempts by Patrick and a really nice guy who lives where we got stuck to dig our way out, use wood under the tires and even pushing we were well and truly stuck. Eventually I managed to find AAA's phone number and call them and being CAA members we had no trouble getting them to make a "reservation" for us - "someone should be ther within 90 minutes - great.... and not a happy great but what could we do.
Not very long after that a nice 20ish kid driving a 4x4 came up behind us and eventually after more attempts at digging, pushing and kicking offered to pull us out. He had some heavy duty straps in his truck, hooked it around the frame at the back and started pulling. After 4 or 5 attempts and about 5 feet of movement the strap broke - oops.. I felt bad but he didn't. Apparently people (GPS users mostly) get stuck there all the time and he's pulling someone out once or twice a month. It took about 20 minutes and me thinking he was going to pull the car in half but we finally got out on solid ground. After fixing the front bumper that had broken off due to all the sand as the van dug into it and waiting for the engine to cool down we were off - in the same direction we had originally come in from and 2 1/2 hours later.
Now we have a problem. GPS now says we are due to arrive at the French Quarter at 7.50, Our reservations are for 8.30. Both Patrick and I are covered in sand and sweat and Cassie sand after having a blast playing in the sand (the only one who enjoyed our 2.5 hour "break) and we all need a shower. We did arrive on time at 7.50 and I went to check in while Patrick and Cassie grabbed a change of cloths for us. We weren't going to lug all our luggage up to the room just a change so we could jump in the shower, change and hopefully get to the restaurant in time for dinner. The concierge tried several times to call Capt'n Jacks with no luck but to let them know of our delay in arrival and we shouldn't have any problems.
As fast as we could we showered, changed and made our way down to the dock where the shuttle boat picks up guests and takes them to DTD (Downtown Disney) Just as we got to the front of the line the boat captain said there was no room and we'd have to wait for the next one - it was already 8.35 and I told him what had happened and that we were already late for our reservations. With out hesitation he got on his walky talky and radioed down to another captain who was still at DTD and asked him to go into Capt'n Jacks and let them know we were late but would be there by 9.10. FANTASTIC.
After a few minute wait (shorter then the captain though) we were on the the next boat and headed to DTD. At exactly 9,04 (yes i checked my phone for the time) we pulled up to the dock and headed over to dinner.
We were greeted by no less than 3 cast members asking what had happened and if we were alright. Once we were seated I began to relax and enjoy the fact that we were in Disney. Cassie surprised us by ordering the soup of the day which was clam chowder and not so surprising..... a hot dog. I had the mixed salad with a lovely papaya vinegarette and the pasta Alfredo. Patrick had a larger bowl of the clam chowder and the shrimp pasta with lobster sauce. All yummy
We had thought on going to the Christmas shop after dinner but Cassandra and I were fading, so we just hopped on the boad and headed back to our resort. Patrick and the bell hop went to grab our luggage and I got Cassandra ready for bed.
It's been a long night and I'm finally just cooled off even after having a shower. Off to bed as we have 8am breakfast reservations at the Kona Cafe located at the Polynesian Resort then a round of mini golf followed by afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian, shopping in DTD and dinner at Citricos at the Grand Floridian and maybe pool hopping over that the Poly but we'll see on that one.
Since we didn't like the breakfast in the hotel we had decided to wake up a little early so we could get some Mickey D's on the way out of Savannah. We went through the drive through and off we went. It was a beautiful drive and we were due in to Patrick's aunt Carroll around 12.30. We made a few stops for gas and got to Carrolls around 12.45. Pretty good timing for a Friday.
Our visit with Carroll was very nice. We had asked her not to go to any trouble for us but she did offer us some lunch and drinks. We chatted, had lunch and then went down to the lake to feed the fish. Well turns out the fish weren't hungry but the ducks were and before long we had 4 ducks of all different colours begging for bread. Cassie had a wonderful time feeding them and then the 3 geese who swam up about 10 minutes later asking for.... no demanding they be fed. Before long we were back in the house and Cassie was playing with her poodle Bella.
We stayed until about 4.30 then thought we would make really good time to get to Disney World. We had dinner reservations at Capt'n Jacks, which is located at Downtown Disney. A mere 10 minute boat ride from our resort - Port Orleans French Quarter. Since Carroll is only little more then an hour to and hour and a half from Disney we thought we'd have plenty of time to check in, unpack, shower and change before heading down for our reservation. Life had other plans......
This was the very first time my GPS failed me. And really through no fault of the actual GPS. As it turns out, Carroll lives off the beaten path and most of the roads leading up to her place aren't really roads but rather sand dunes. Apparently this year is a pretty bad year for the depth of the sand. We arrived with no problems but when we left our GPS said the fastes route to Disney was to turn left instead of going straight. Before long we were stuck. Turns out the "fastest" route is also a car trap. If one has a 4x4 then by all means turn left but for us lowly folk who only have 2 wheel drive stick to the long route.
2 hours later and several attempts by Patrick and a really nice guy who lives where we got stuck to dig our way out, use wood under the tires and even pushing we were well and truly stuck. Eventually I managed to find AAA's phone number and call them and being CAA members we had no trouble getting them to make a "reservation" for us - "someone should be ther within 90 minutes - great.... and not a happy great but what could we do.
Not very long after that a nice 20ish kid driving a 4x4 came up behind us and eventually after more attempts at digging, pushing and kicking offered to pull us out. He had some heavy duty straps in his truck, hooked it around the frame at the back and started pulling. After 4 or 5 attempts and about 5 feet of movement the strap broke - oops.. I felt bad but he didn't. Apparently people (GPS users mostly) get stuck there all the time and he's pulling someone out once or twice a month. It took about 20 minutes and me thinking he was going to pull the car in half but we finally got out on solid ground. After fixing the front bumper that had broken off due to all the sand as the van dug into it and waiting for the engine to cool down we were off - in the same direction we had originally come in from and 2 1/2 hours later.
Now we have a problem. GPS now says we are due to arrive at the French Quarter at 7.50, Our reservations are for 8.30. Both Patrick and I are covered in sand and sweat and Cassie sand after having a blast playing in the sand (the only one who enjoyed our 2.5 hour "break) and we all need a shower. We did arrive on time at 7.50 and I went to check in while Patrick and Cassie grabbed a change of cloths for us. We weren't going to lug all our luggage up to the room just a change so we could jump in the shower, change and hopefully get to the restaurant in time for dinner. The concierge tried several times to call Capt'n Jacks with no luck but to let them know of our delay in arrival and we shouldn't have any problems.
As fast as we could we showered, changed and made our way down to the dock where the shuttle boat picks up guests and takes them to DTD (Downtown Disney) Just as we got to the front of the line the boat captain said there was no room and we'd have to wait for the next one - it was already 8.35 and I told him what had happened and that we were already late for our reservations. With out hesitation he got on his walky talky and radioed down to another captain who was still at DTD and asked him to go into Capt'n Jacks and let them know we were late but would be there by 9.10. FANTASTIC.
After a few minute wait (shorter then the captain though) we were on the the next boat and headed to DTD. At exactly 9,04 (yes i checked my phone for the time) we pulled up to the dock and headed over to dinner.
We were greeted by no less than 3 cast members asking what had happened and if we were alright. Once we were seated I began to relax and enjoy the fact that we were in Disney. Cassie surprised us by ordering the soup of the day which was clam chowder and not so surprising..... a hot dog. I had the mixed salad with a lovely papaya vinegarette and the pasta Alfredo. Patrick had a larger bowl of the clam chowder and the shrimp pasta with lobster sauce. All yummy
We had thought on going to the Christmas shop after dinner but Cassandra and I were fading, so we just hopped on the boad and headed back to our resort. Patrick and the bell hop went to grab our luggage and I got Cassandra ready for bed.
It's been a long night and I'm finally just cooled off even after having a shower. Off to bed as we have 8am breakfast reservations at the Kona Cafe located at the Polynesian Resort then a round of mini golf followed by afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian, shopping in DTD and dinner at Citricos at the Grand Floridian and maybe pool hopping over that the Poly but we'll see on that one.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Wednesday and Thursday - Too quick in Savannah
Wednesday.
Today's another travel day. Last night we got everything all packed up and ready to go so that when after breakfast we could just wash up, put the stuff in the car and leave. While Cassandra was getting dressed Patrick took a few of the bags down then we headed off for breakfast.
We set off by 9.30. The drive was actually pretty good. With very little traffic on the road we made good time. At one point we stopped for gas, looked east and saw the sky had turned very dark. With a crack of thunder we knew it would be a race to see who would get to Savannah first, the storm or us. For the next 2 hours the dark skies remained in the rear view mirror.
We arrived at our hotel just past 6.30 ahead of what we thought would be a huge storm. It turns out it got tired of following us and changed directions, though we could still see the dark skies off in the distance it looks like other parts of Georgia weren't so lucky.
We're staying outside the historical district which is unfortunate. It would have been great just to be able to go for a walk but where we are there isn't anything worth seeing so tomorrow we'll go on one of the bus tours to see the city.
Thursday
I called last night and had to leave a message for the bus tour company. I found their site online and it said we had to book the 3 hour tour 48 hours in advance. I hopped it would be ok otherwise we'd just do the 90 minute tour which would have been fine just not as much info. By 9am I hadn't received a call back so I decided to call them instead of waiting any longer. We were in luck, there were 4 spaces left and we're just 3 so we got it. Now, the women on the phone said Cassie would be free but we ended up being changed half our cost for her which I don't mind because she does take a seat, it's just what happens when we're going that kills me LOL.
We got ready and headed down stairs. It was a 3-0 decision. We don't like the breakfast here. The french toast tasted like cardboard, the eggs and been scrambled within an inch of their lives and were nothing but little egg bits and the waffles took forever to cook and were the only ok things there. We'll skip breakfast here tomorrow and opt for paying for it at Mickey D's.
Rather that going swimming again or sitting in our room we decided to take a drive around then headed to the ocean. It's pretty far but we had time before we had to meet the bus at 1.30. The roads and houses at Turtle Island reminded us of Virginia Beach cottages or the houses around the beach near Daytona. By the time we got out there we didn't really have time to walk around which was ok because Cassie was starting to fall asleep so we turned around and headed back to the bus tour location and arrived with 25 minutes to spare.
Our tour of Historical Savannah started at 2 and ended just before 5pm and in between we were amazed with the history of this city. A city made up of 5 "squares" with 40-50 houses around each square. The first was developed in the 1733 when General James Oglethorpe brought 40 families from Britain. If anyone's interested in reading about how Savannah was formed go here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Squares_of_Savannah,_Georgia it really is interesting.
By the half way point of the tour we found ourselves down at the river front. We were given 15 minutes to walk around, get a snack and see the river before boarding for the second half of the tour which brought us to the newer but still pretty old parts of the city. Very different lay out and house design. More Victorian as a lot of these house had been built in the 1800's. It was an excellent tour and I'm really glad we were able to get into the this one.
After the tour we headed over to a restaurant that advertises in the tour companies lobby. BBQ and the south seem to go hand in hand. Patrick ordered the bbq pulled pork but after being given a sample of 3 of the sauces I opted for the fried chicken. While Patrick really liked the sauce I found it too spicy. We did get a bottle free to take home so we chose the less spicy original but I'm not likely to have any at home.
We had though of going back to the beach after dinner but it was just too far away and it's a good thing too because by the time we got back to our room and looked out the window there was a pretty major lightening storm over where the beach was.
So it's 10pm and Cassie has just fallen asleep all excited to be going to Florida tomorrow. We are seeing Patrick's aunt first and then should be heading to our Disney resort for around dinner time.
And with that we bid Savannah adieu.
Today's another travel day. Last night we got everything all packed up and ready to go so that when after breakfast we could just wash up, put the stuff in the car and leave. While Cassandra was getting dressed Patrick took a few of the bags down then we headed off for breakfast.
We set off by 9.30. The drive was actually pretty good. With very little traffic on the road we made good time. At one point we stopped for gas, looked east and saw the sky had turned very dark. With a crack of thunder we knew it would be a race to see who would get to Savannah first, the storm or us. For the next 2 hours the dark skies remained in the rear view mirror.
We arrived at our hotel just past 6.30 ahead of what we thought would be a huge storm. It turns out it got tired of following us and changed directions, though we could still see the dark skies off in the distance it looks like other parts of Georgia weren't so lucky.
We're staying outside the historical district which is unfortunate. It would have been great just to be able to go for a walk but where we are there isn't anything worth seeing so tomorrow we'll go on one of the bus tours to see the city.
Thursday
I called last night and had to leave a message for the bus tour company. I found their site online and it said we had to book the 3 hour tour 48 hours in advance. I hopped it would be ok otherwise we'd just do the 90 minute tour which would have been fine just not as much info. By 9am I hadn't received a call back so I decided to call them instead of waiting any longer. We were in luck, there were 4 spaces left and we're just 3 so we got it. Now, the women on the phone said Cassie would be free but we ended up being changed half our cost for her which I don't mind because she does take a seat, it's just what happens when we're going that kills me LOL.
We got ready and headed down stairs. It was a 3-0 decision. We don't like the breakfast here. The french toast tasted like cardboard, the eggs and been scrambled within an inch of their lives and were nothing but little egg bits and the waffles took forever to cook and were the only ok things there. We'll skip breakfast here tomorrow and opt for paying for it at Mickey D's.
Rather that going swimming again or sitting in our room we decided to take a drive around then headed to the ocean. It's pretty far but we had time before we had to meet the bus at 1.30. The roads and houses at Turtle Island reminded us of Virginia Beach cottages or the houses around the beach near Daytona. By the time we got out there we didn't really have time to walk around which was ok because Cassie was starting to fall asleep so we turned around and headed back to the bus tour location and arrived with 25 minutes to spare.
Our tour of Historical Savannah started at 2 and ended just before 5pm and in between we were amazed with the history of this city. A city made up of 5 "squares" with 40-50 houses around each square. The first was developed in the 1733 when General James Oglethorpe brought 40 families from Britain. If anyone's interested in reading about how Savannah was formed go here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Squares_of_Savannah,_Georgia it really is interesting.
By the half way point of the tour we found ourselves down at the river front. We were given 15 minutes to walk around, get a snack and see the river before boarding for the second half of the tour which brought us to the newer but still pretty old parts of the city. Very different lay out and house design. More Victorian as a lot of these house had been built in the 1800's. It was an excellent tour and I'm really glad we were able to get into the this one.
After the tour we headed over to a restaurant that advertises in the tour companies lobby. BBQ and the south seem to go hand in hand. Patrick ordered the bbq pulled pork but after being given a sample of 3 of the sauces I opted for the fried chicken. While Patrick really liked the sauce I found it too spicy. We did get a bottle free to take home so we chose the less spicy original but I'm not likely to have any at home.
We had though of going back to the beach after dinner but it was just too far away and it's a good thing too because by the time we got back to our room and looked out the window there was a pretty major lightening storm over where the beach was.
So it's 10pm and Cassie has just fallen asleep all excited to be going to Florida tomorrow. We are seeing Patrick's aunt first and then should be heading to our Disney resort for around dinner time.
And with that we bid Savannah adieu.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Tuesday - Maymont Estate
After last nights late night dinner I thought Cassie would sleep in but noooooo 7am rolled around and up she sprang. Luckily Patrick got up with her this time and let me sleep in an extra hour.
Another breakfast in the hotel then back to the hotel to get the address and make reservations for the Maymont Estate. We found out they opened at 12 so we had time to start packing in preparation for leaving tomorrow.
Richmond is not a very large city so it didn't take us too long to get there, about 15 minutes. The Maymont estate is a 100 acre Victorian country estate on the banks of the James River and was donated to the city of Richmond by Major and Mrs. James Dooley in 1925 after Mrs. Dooley passed away. Major Dooley passed in 1922.
When we arrived we didn't realize that the parking lot in front of a formidable gate was actually the entrance that is the original gate from 1883. We parked and headed up the very long path that we soon found out was the severance and delivery road. Along the way we passed the stables, garden house and many other unnamed buildings. Eventually we came to the Carriage house and boarded our carriage for a beautiful 20 minute ride around the garden. We were taken to the front gate and told that this was indeed the route the Dooleys and guests would have been brought in by carriage and later car. Our ride took us to around the house and through the carriage cover where we were told they guests would have been greeted by the butler as they exited their coach. Before long our journey was over and we bid farewell to our tour guide (and his 5 year old daughter)
We took the hot walk back to the house for the inside tour and were very glad we did.
James Dooley was the son of wealthy Irish immigrants and after graduating first in his class from Georgetown College he enlisted and fought in the Confederate army.
After the Civil war he established a law practice in his war torn city. A few years he met and married Sallie May. in the decade that followed James served 3 terms in the state legislature.
He and other prosperous residence were instrumental in rebuilding and expanding the southern railways.
Having no children to inherit their wealth Dooleys left the bulk of their wealth to several Richmond organizations and upon Sallie's death in 1925 and in accordance with her husband's will, she left Maymont to the City of Richmond to be used as a museum and park. However, no endowment was made for its ongoing care so they relay on donations from the public.
Sallie too came from wealth and was famous in her own right. An author, she had a book published in 1906 called "Dem Good Ole Times". A romanticized interpretation of Virginia plantation life.
This home in Virginia was the couples winter and smaller home at 1200 square feet. Their summer home called Swannanoa is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and at 2500 square feet is more than double the size of their main home. In a sad state the summer house has been left and is in major disrepair and is very difficult to get in to see. Some photo are presented in Maymont and one can only imagine how beautiful it once was. Sallie played an active role in developing the estate gardens and brought many different plants and trees not native to the area.
Unfortunately we were not permitted to take any video or photos inside the house which is a shame because it was absolutely beautiful and showed just how wealthy they were at the time. A house for just the two of them also housed 8 house help and more then 20 grounds help.
We decided not to take a walking tour of the gardens as it was getting far too hot and Cassie was very thirsty. When we got back to the car we weren't shocked to see it was 104 degrees in the shade. Before too long Cassandra was sound asleep and we weren't too far behind her.
We headed back to the hotel and when Cassie woke up we went for a swim. I can honestly say I don't think we've ever been in the pool this many times in one vacation.
The managers reception was being held again tonight rather going out for dinner we decided to just have nibbles instead. Tonight we were again offered on the house beer and wine along with mixed drinks and soft drinks. For eats we had little pizza slices, pop corn, cheese and veggies/dip.
It's now 8pm and we're hoping Cassie falls asleep soon so we can finish packing so we can just leave after breakfast tomorrow and head down to Savannah.
Richmond has been a nice city to visit and I think we'll return (just not in the middle of the summer again.)
Another breakfast in the hotel then back to the hotel to get the address and make reservations for the Maymont Estate. We found out they opened at 12 so we had time to start packing in preparation for leaving tomorrow.
Richmond is not a very large city so it didn't take us too long to get there, about 15 minutes. The Maymont estate is a 100 acre Victorian country estate on the banks of the James River and was donated to the city of Richmond by Major and Mrs. James Dooley in 1925 after Mrs. Dooley passed away. Major Dooley passed in 1922.
When we arrived we didn't realize that the parking lot in front of a formidable gate was actually the entrance that is the original gate from 1883. We parked and headed up the very long path that we soon found out was the severance and delivery road. Along the way we passed the stables, garden house and many other unnamed buildings. Eventually we came to the Carriage house and boarded our carriage for a beautiful 20 minute ride around the garden. We were taken to the front gate and told that this was indeed the route the Dooleys and guests would have been brought in by carriage and later car. Our ride took us to around the house and through the carriage cover where we were told they guests would have been greeted by the butler as they exited their coach. Before long our journey was over and we bid farewell to our tour guide (and his 5 year old daughter)
We took the hot walk back to the house for the inside tour and were very glad we did.
James Dooley was the son of wealthy Irish immigrants and after graduating first in his class from Georgetown College he enlisted and fought in the Confederate army.
After the Civil war he established a law practice in his war torn city. A few years he met and married Sallie May. in the decade that followed James served 3 terms in the state legislature.
He and other prosperous residence were instrumental in rebuilding and expanding the southern railways.
Having no children to inherit their wealth Dooleys left the bulk of their wealth to several Richmond organizations and upon Sallie's death in 1925 and in accordance with her husband's will, she left Maymont to the City of Richmond to be used as a museum and park. However, no endowment was made for its ongoing care so they relay on donations from the public.
Sallie too came from wealth and was famous in her own right. An author, she had a book published in 1906 called "Dem Good Ole Times". A romanticized interpretation of Virginia plantation life.
This home in Virginia was the couples winter and smaller home at 1200 square feet. Their summer home called Swannanoa is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and at 2500 square feet is more than double the size of their main home. In a sad state the summer house has been left and is in major disrepair and is very difficult to get in to see. Some photo are presented in Maymont and one can only imagine how beautiful it once was. Sallie played an active role in developing the estate gardens and brought many different plants and trees not native to the area.
Unfortunately we were not permitted to take any video or photos inside the house which is a shame because it was absolutely beautiful and showed just how wealthy they were at the time. A house for just the two of them also housed 8 house help and more then 20 grounds help.
We decided not to take a walking tour of the gardens as it was getting far too hot and Cassie was very thirsty. When we got back to the car we weren't shocked to see it was 104 degrees in the shade. Before too long Cassandra was sound asleep and we weren't too far behind her.
We headed back to the hotel and when Cassie woke up we went for a swim. I can honestly say I don't think we've ever been in the pool this many times in one vacation.
The managers reception was being held again tonight rather going out for dinner we decided to just have nibbles instead. Tonight we were again offered on the house beer and wine along with mixed drinks and soft drinks. For eats we had little pizza slices, pop corn, cheese and veggies/dip.
It's now 8pm and we're hoping Cassie falls asleep soon so we can finish packing so we can just leave after breakfast tomorrow and head down to Savannah.
Richmond has been a nice city to visit and I think we'll return (just not in the middle of the summer again.)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)