Love is “Universal”: Our Awesome Anniversary Adventures in Orlando (May 2015 TR)

dancin Disney style · Jun 20, 2015

Gina-Gina-Bo-Bina said:
I'm not sure I can accept a convertible as our charriot. Have I mentioned that I have a hang-up or two about my hair?

No worries hair is my life....you will look better than ever. Besides if we're going to get old and wrinkley we have to be leathery looking as well...hence the convertible. Remember the neighbour in 'There's Something About Mary'? That's what I'm aiming for.

dancin Disney style · Jun 20, 2015

here she is....

bankr63 · Jun 21, 2015

dancin Disney style said:
here she is....

This is certainly NOT what I am going for! (Or hopefully any else, shudder!)

Here is your chauffeur and chariot (Gina, you're gonna need a hat...):

YOLO and Sophia don't go together. If that woman had been a cat, she would have lived all 9 lives to the fullest.

dancin Disney style · Jun 21, 2015

bankr63 said:
Here is your chauffeur and chariot (Gina, you're gonna need a hat...):

.

YESSSSSS....let's make it a 5.0L. 6 speed, Cobra GT!!!!!!!!!!!

RocketCityMama · Jun 21, 2015

Gina-Gina-Bo-Bina said:
You notice he hasn't mentioned anything yet about being our driver..... .

I guess he hasn't made it to that part just yet!!

---------------------------

In other news...............

I am happy to report that our October trip is now 100% "paid for" (including cash converted and set aside for our meal costs and an additional sum to fund some senseless shopping!) .

December is also well on its way....accommodations, airfare, our park-and-fly hotel, tickets, and a portion of the food budget are already covered. Basically just the balance of our food expenses and shopping monies to set aside .

And my favourite update of all.....my brother (whom I adore) and his leading lady will be in Tampa the same week we are in Orlando at Christms, so we will get to spend a least a day or two of the holidays with them, too! I just finished booking his airfare for his trio (his GF's teen daughter will also be travelling with them) so its OFFICIAL!

114 days until we leave in October, 184 until we're outta here for Christmas!!!

Yay awesome and jealous! I can't wait to go back and re-ride our favs and do stuff we missed this time around! We are hoping to go in Spring next year or around the same time as this one. Depends on what we can get at time share!

Gina-Gina-Bo-Bina · Jun 22, 2015

dancin Disney style said:
No worries hair is my life....you will look better than ever. Besides if we're going to get old and wrinkley we have to be leathery looking as well...hence the convertible. Remember the neighbour in 'There's Something About Mary'? That's what I'm aiming for.

Who on earth said we were going to be old and wrinkly??? :scared:

Oh, I don't think I like how these plans are unfolding........ :crazy2:

bankr63 said:
This is certainly NOT what I am going for! (Or hopefully any else, shudder!)

Here is your chauffeur and chariot (Gina, you're gonna need a hat...):

It's official. I'm panicking. Does anyone know how to French braid? Hats just make my nose look bigger! :sad:

dancin Disney style said:
YESSSSSS....let's make it a 5.0L. 6 speed, Cobra GT!!!!!!!!!!!

As long as it comes with a supply of Depends.

RocketCityMama said:
Yay awesome and jealous! I can't wait to go back and re-ride our favs and do stuff we missed this time around! We are hoping to go in Spring next year or around the same time as this one. Depends on what we can get at time share!

Woohoo! So now, the fun of planning can officially begin again :sunny:

.

sk8jdgca · Jun 24, 2015

It looks like our August "kickin Cancer's Butt" is a go. My last chemo is Aug 11 and then my Pic Line will be out. We are flying out of Flint on Aug 27 and coming home last on labour DSL Sunday . I got a decent price on a two bedroom through Sheraton itself but could save a couple hundred going sky auction. ( I like that I could cancel through Sheraton and trip cancellation won't cover as I have a pre existing condition) I do have Discovery cove booked on sept 1 when the price goes down. I am going to get the special event package at 399 as this is a once in a life time adventure and I need to be out of the sun. The cabana will be good for me to rest in if needed.
But what do I put on the Buoy?

I've got an annual pass rate at Potifina for thur-sun then move to SVR on Sunday and am going to get cheapest annual pass. Not sure if I should try to get a buy 3 get one day free before I go and then upgrade at the park.

Starting to look like a great vacation

Gina you need to make a sticky with Gina's top 5 picks for food, mini golf, ways to save money, ect.

If I have a Sunday check in what should I ask for on the diamond checkin

I'd like to be close to a good teen age pool. ( my kids are 16 and almost 13) I'd like a top floor if there is elevators, lack of noise would be good. I will probably rent a scooter unless I can build up my strength and get a handle on my dehydration issues. My kids will probably want to do as many physical activities as they can at the resort ( while I lounge near by)and we are definitely checking out the bingo

bagsmom · Jun 24, 2015

I'm going to enjoy reading about your trip! We are hoping to go in May of 2016 -- Disney fools try out Universal! Happy Belated Anniversary!

Monykalyn · Jun 24, 2015

Gina-our local butterbeer is pretty close to the "real" stuff- a bit sweeter and more (I think it is) butterscotchy. And no foam

Plus I like the frozen butterbeer better.

Gina-Gina-Bo-Bina · Jun 24, 2015

sk8jdgca said:
It looks like our August "kickin Cancer's Butt" is a go. My last chemo is Aug 11 and then my Pic Line will be out. We are flying out of Flint on Aug 27 and coming home last on labour DSL Sunday . I got a decent price on a two bedroom through Sheraton itself but could save a couple hundred going sky auction. ( I like that I could cancel through Sheraton and trip cancellation won't cover as I have a pre existing condition) I do have Discovery cove booked on sept 1 when the price goes down. I am going to get the special event package at 399 as this is a once in a life time adventure and I need to be out of the sun. The cabana will be good for me to rest in if needed.
But what do I put on the Buoy?

I've got an annual pass rate at Potifina for thur-sun then move to SVR on Sunday and am going to get cheapest annual pass. Not sure if I should try to get a buy 3 get one day free before I go and then upgrade at the park.

Starting to look like a great vacation

Gina you need to make a sticky with Gina's top 5 picks for food, mini golf, ways to save money, ect.

If I have a Sunday check in what should I ask for on the diamond checkin

I'd like to be close to a good teen age pool. ( my kids are 16 and almost 13) I'd like a top floor if there is elevators, lack of noise would be good. I will probably rent a scooter unless I can build up my strength and get a handle on my dehydration issues. My kids will probably want to do as many physical activities as they can at the resort ( while I lounge near by)and we are definitely checking out the bingo

So happy to hear that you are doing so well! News like that just makes my day

. Here's to every day from now until August making you feel better and stronger :thumbsup2

.

I would request a villa either near the Fountains pool or the Super pool....those two are the most teen friendly in my opinion. There is sand volleyball, shuffleboard and basketball courts near the Fountains pool. Near the Super pool, there is sand volleyball, tennis, basketball, and mini golf. Lakes (which is near the Fountains pool) or Cascades (near the Super pool) will give you elevator access. I'm with you, I love the top floor!

bagsmom said:
I'm going to enjoy reading about your trip! We are hoping to go in May of 2016 -- Disney fools try out Universal! Happy Belated Anniversary!

Thank you! :goodvibes

22 years and counting ... he is a saint to have put up with me for that long! :teeth:

Monykalyn said:
Gina-our local butterbeer is pretty close to the "real" stuff- a bit sweeter and more (I think it is) butterscotchy. And no foam Plus I like the frozen butterbeer better.

I think we're weirdos.....we are two of the few people who don't seem to like the frozen best :upsidedow

.

How cool to be able to say you can get Butterbeer in your own back yard!!

ElenaJane · Jun 29, 2015

I don't usually remember that there is a US TR section! I am glad I decided to check it out though and found your TR. I just read it "cover to cover" and savored every drop like a warm butterbeer for the soul. I am so "homesick" for Orlando! Well, I am always homesick for Orlando, or I am in Orlando....only two options really. Thanks for sharing your memories! We were there from May 29th-June 4th, and will be going back Sept 26th. We will be doing the HHN for the first time!

Princess Leia · Jun 29, 2015

Gina

Thanks for sharing your most recent trip. I enjoyed following along. There were a few eating places you went to I was interested in trying namely Hash House a Go Go and Bubbalou's. I was showing details of the restaurants to DD, in true teenage fashion she declared that the amount of food at Hash House was disgusting and that she does not like BBQ. However, she did like the look of the fajitas at Confisco's and said she would like to go there. :thumbsup2

I am amazed at the number of quality photos you got with your Photo Connect card. I'm hoping I get some good ones. I particularly love your ET ones. Hoping to squeeze in watching ET again before I go.

Anyway you have inspired me to have a go at a pre-trip report. It is rather short at the moment but it's a start. Looking forward to reading about your next trips.

Gina-Gina-Bo-Bina · Jun 30, 2015

ElenaJane said:
I don't usually remember that there is a US TR section! I am glad I decided to check it out though and found your TR. I just read it "cover to cover" and savored every drop like a warm butterbeer for the soul. I am so "homesick" for Orlando! Well, I am always homesick for Orlando, or I am in Orlando....only two options really. Thanks for sharing your memories! We were there from May 29th-June 4th, and will be going back Sept 26th. We will be doing the HHN for the first time!

Thank you ElenaJane! :goodvibes

I second your sentiment on being "homesick" ::yes::

. If I'm not there in body, I can assure you I am there in spirit!

We are HHN virgins too.....I am not sure if I am excited or terrified :rolleyes1

(my Steve loves a good scare....me, not so much!). Be sure to drop over to the main Universal board and add your info to the 2015 HHN Guest List thread that I've started, and I'll add you in :thumbsup2

Gina-Gina-Bo-Bina · Jun 30, 2015

Princess Leia said:
Gina

Thanks for sharing your most recent trip. I enjoyed following along. There were a few eating places you went to I was interested in trying namely Hash House a Go Go and Bubbalou's. I was showing details of the restaurants to DD, in true teenage fashion she declared that the amount of food at Hash House was disgusting and that she does not like BBQ. However, she did like the look of the fajitas at Confisco's and said she would like to go there.

I am amazed at the number of quality photos you got with your Photo Connect card. I'm hoping I get some good ones. I particularly love your ET ones. Hoping to squeeze in watching ET again before I go.

Anyway you have inspired me to have a go at a pre-trip report. It is rather short at the moment but it's a start. Looking forward to reading about your next trips.

Woohoo, a PTR! I will be sure to drop over and follow along :thumbsup2

. I love reading about other Disers plans as we wait not-so-patiently for our next adventure!

I was actually pleasantly surprised at the number of good Photoconnect shots we got as well. Admittedly some were a bust (not centered, etc.) but for the most part, they were really good. I was super impressed by how friendly and social the in-park photographers were, too.....and how often they also offered to take a picture with our own camera (which I always took them up on, even with the Star Card). As far as value for the price paid, we definitely made out like bandits on the Photoconnect AP. At $49.95, it more than paid for itself on our May visit, and knowing we can still use it for two additional Universal trips (God willing).....that's just incredible!

I have to agree with your DD.....the volume of food at Hash House was really over the top (we took our leftovers back to the villa and enjoyed them in the late night hours after swimming, but I cringed to think how much gets tossed in the garbage when millions of people are starving world wide). Yet, it was disgustingly good just the same :rotfl:

. I am glad she liked the looks of Confisco's.....I think you will both enjoy the food and the atmosphere there. I know I am eager to return for another meal there in October!!

Princess Leia · Jun 30, 2015

Sorry for double post.

Princess Leia · Jun 30, 2015

Gina-Gina-Bo-Bina said:
Woohoo, a PTR! I will be sure to drop over and follow along . I love reading about other Disers plans as we wait not-so-patiently for our next adventure!

As far as value for the price paid, we definitely made out like bandits on the Photoconnect AP. At $49.95, it more than paid for itself on our May visit, and knowing we can still use it for two additional Universal trips (God willing).....that's just incredible!

I have to agree with your DD.....the volume of food at Hash House was really over the top (we took our leftovers back to the villa and enjoyed them in the late night hours after swimming, but I cringed to think how much gets tossed in the garbage when millions of people are starving world wide). Yet, it was disgustingly good just the same . I am glad she liked the looks of Confisco's.....I think you will both enjoy the food and the atmosphere there. I know I am eager to return for another meal there in October!!

You certainly got amazing value with the annual photo connect price. That's less than the 3 days price but you have given them good marketing. You've also shown that the strong man game isn't a fix. I did suggest sharing at Hash House. Fajitas sounds good to me though. I am just wondering how likely it is we will be able to get into Confisco's without a reservation. I'm reluctant to make a reservation as it is travel day and I'm not sure how quickly we will get through the airport. One things for sure we won't go hungry in Orlando.

Great that you've joined my pre-trip report.

jm106 · Jul 4, 2015

Thanks for the hash house recommendation! We didn't plan too well, wound up with a ton of left overs that didn't get eaten. Kids were too tired and Dh was completely unable to eat even half of chicken and waffles. I got stuffed meatloaf which was awesome, side of mashed potato. We definitely could have shared and gotten one voucher but at least it covered all, including tax and cocktails(with money to spare. ) Only had to tip! It was such a quiet restaurant being off the beaten path

JaxDad · Jul 4, 2015

Inquiring minds want to know...

When are you going to start your next PTR?

Gina-Gina-Bo-Bina · Jul 5, 2015

jm106 said:
Thanks for the hash house recommendation! We didn't plan too well, wound up with a ton of left overs that didn't get eaten. Kids were too tired and Dh was completely unable to eat even half of chicken and waffles. I got stuffed meatloaf which was awesome, side of mashed potato. We definitely could have shared and gotten one voucher but at least it covered all, including tax and cocktails(with money to spare. ) Only had to tip! It was such a quiet restaurant being off the beaten path

I am glad you gave it a try....sounds like it was a good experience despite the tired kiddos and being unable to eat everything (though I think the latter would be the case no matter when you went....OMG the portions!! :crazy2:

I would love for them to extend the voucher offer so we can take advantage of the deal again in either October or December, but I'm not holding my breath. Still, a girl can hope, right?

JaxDad said:
Inquiring minds want to know...

When are you going to start your next PTR?

lol, you know, I was just wondering the other day if I should start another thread for October. We're now under 100 days to go and it was a fun way to pass the time the last two trips. But then I thought, maybe everyone is tired of hearing from me? A person can only stay interesting so long, lol! :rotfl:

But you never know....I might give in to the urge sooner rather than later. :teeth:

kbarrett · Jul 9, 2015

Gina just wanted to say hi! Found your TR, I am on May 6th part one and loving it! Fabulous TR! Nice to see a TR offsite enjoying Universal!

Love is “Universal”: Our Awesome Anniversary Adventures in Orlando (May 2015 TR)

<font color=blue>I found one to share with some fa

<font color=blue>I found one to share with some fa

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<font color=blue>I found one to share with some fa

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