Rumors of Light (ROL discussion thread)

[TheFloatingBear]

On this Turtle Tuesday, I am home for the second day with a sick child - it is snowy and cold outside, and I would like to do some Disney planning for my trip which is just a short 98 days away. I'm in double digits, people!

Given that's it's Easter week and that is new territory for me, plus my traveling companions - one who is a Born-Again-Newbie-Excited-as-a-Kid-in-a-Candy-Store and one who is Conference-Weary-Over-Disney-Just-Going-for-the-Sister-Thing, it's a bit of a struggle to balance things, although we've planned in such a way that people can opt in and out of things fairly easily. I feel like there's some things up in the air that may or may not be available, but I'll have to accommodate them if they are - and I know that some the hours/EMH are going to change and I have a feeling even the things that are nailed down are going to change. I feel like I'm having a hard time strategizing for such a busy time because I'm still missing info, but I can't control that so instead I will come here to the lounge to write nonsensical posts. I know that we're going to have a blast and this is just how it goes, but that's just where I'm at, so I guess I need to just do Disney dreaming instead of planning!

 

[jlundeen]

On this Turtle Tuesday, I am home for the second day with a sick child - it is snowy and cold outside, and I would like to do some Disney planning for my trip which is just a short 98 days away. I'm in double digits, people!

Given that's it's Easter week and that is new territory for me, plus my traveling companions - one who is a Born-Again-Newbie-Excited-as-a-Kid-in-a-Candy-Store and one who is Conference-Weary-Over-Disney-Just-Going-for-the-Sister-Thing, it's a bit of a struggle to balance things, although we've planned in such a way that people can opt in and out of things fairly easily. I feel like there's some things up in the air that may or may not be available, but I'll have to accommodate them if they are - and I know that some the hours/EMH are going to change and I have a feeling even the things that are nailed down are going to change. I feel like I'm having a hard time strategizing for such a busy time because I'm still missing info, but I can't control that so instead I will come here to the lounge to write nonsensical posts. I know that we're going to have a blast and this is just how it goes, but that's just where I'm at, so I guess I need to just do Disney dreaming instead of planning!

Well, when I start "Disney Dreaming" I usually end up making spread sheets - putting all the alternatives down, and it really helps me see the bigger picture...

CONFESSION: I've started doing that with our trip that won't happen until next September or October...talk about not having enough solid information!!! But it's already helped narrow down dates....we just have no idea what the park hours, add ons and EXTRAS will be.

 

[HopperFan]

On this Turtle Tuesday, I am home for the second day with a sick child - it is snowy and cold outside, and I would like to do some Disney planning for my trip which is just a short 98 days away. I'm in double digits, people!

Given that's it's Easter week and that is new territory for me, plus my traveling companions - one who is a Born-Again-Newbie-Excited-as-a-Kid-in-a-Candy-Store and one who is Conference-Weary-Over-Disney-Just-Going-for-the-Sister-Thing, it's a bit of a struggle to balance things, although we've planned in such a way that people can opt in and out of things fairly easily. I feel like there's some things up in the air that may or may not be available, but I'll have to accommodate them if they are - and I know that some the hours/EMH are going to change and I have a feeling even the things that are nailed down are going to change. I feel like I'm having a hard time strategizing for such a busy time because I'm still missing info, but I can't control that so instead I will come here to the lounge to write nonsensical posts. I know that we're going to have a blast and this is just how it goes, but that's just where I'm at, so I guess I need to just do Disney dreaming instead of planning!

Well first and foremost this is a LOUNGE so CHEERS! Or be cheerful that you have a trip to plan. I have been that time frame and totally agree with BOOK whatever you can and be FLEXIBLE once there to change your mind if challenged by a wall of humanity. HOPPING for us was a must.

Channel your inner peaceful soul!

Well, when I start "Disney Dreaming" I usually end up making spread sheets - putting all the alternatives down, and it really helps me see the bigger picture...

CONFESSION: I've started doing that with our trip that won't happen until next September or October...talk about not having enough solid information!!! But it's already helped narrow down dates....we just have no idea what the park hours, add ons and EXTRAS will be.

But that is almost as much fun as going. Heading down in a couple weeks with DS1, DS2 will join, meeting up with far away Disney friend and time with our CM friend ........... just talked, no FP+, minimal ADRs and we decided lets just have fun, wing it, let the wind take us wherever .... and no pressure. Hard since I also do the spreadsheets with great detail in many colors .....................

 

[TheFloatingBear]

Well, when I start "Disney Dreaming" I usually end up making spread sheets - putting all the alternatives down, and it really helps me see the bigger picture...

CONFESSION: I've started doing that with our trip that won't happen until next September or October...talk about not having enough solid information!!! But it's already helped narrow down dates....we just have no idea what the park hours, add ons and EXTRAS will be.

I hear you! I do the same thing with the spread sheets! Mine are a mess currently! We went through the first one the other night and put a bunch of alternatives in there in case some of the add-ons we want to do are available. I think the toughest part is trying to figure out where/when to select FPs (park/day of week), since it could be impacted by the changes. Normally I wouldn't worry about that as much, but I feel like the stakes are higher Easter week!

It does help that I went through the list of attractions at each park with my sister (the one who cares!) so I have a good working list of what she wants to do and what she can skip, so that helps. Of course, I can't find that list at the moment...but at least I don't have to fit in 5 rides of Winnie-the-Pooh - probably one or two will suffice! I too love that ride, but my son is obsessed! He's 12 so you think he'd have grown out of it, but for some reason, it's just his jam.

When my daughter floats in, I have to hide what I'm doing...I still haven't worked up the nerve I'm going without them...

 

[ArielSRL]

On this Turtle Tuesday, I am home for the second day with a sick child - it is snowy and cold outside, and I would like to do some Disney planning for my trip which is just a short 98 days away. I'm in double digits, people!

Given that's it's Easter week and that is new territory for me, plus my traveling companions - one who is a Born-Again-Newbie-Excited-as-a-Kid-in-a-Candy-Store and one who is Conference-Weary-Over-Disney-Just-Going-for-the-Sister-Thing, it's a bit of a struggle to balance things, although we've planned in such a way that people can opt in and out of things fairly easily. I feel like there's some things up in the air that may or may not be available, but I'll have to accommodate them if they are - and I know that some the hours/EMH are going to change and I have a feeling even the things that are nailed down are going to change. I feel like I'm having a hard time strategizing for such a busy time because I'm still missing info, but I can't control that so instead I will come here to the lounge to write nonsensical posts. I know that we're going to have a blast and this is just how it goes, but that's just where I'm at, so I guess I need to just do Disney dreaming instead of planning!

Sometimes I wonder how it would be to be blissfully unaware when it comes to Disney. Like maybe I wouldn't stress so much if I had no idea what was maybe coming or what I was missing out on. But then I think of all those poor folks in the 120 minute stand by lines (even though that is to the extreme opposite of what I am) and I think maybe I'm in a better position....lol.

Our trip is June and I am not quite but almost in the same position as you. I have ADRs upon ADRs because I am not sure how things will play out but I realized the other day, I am going to have to book FP before I know everything I think I need to know so I am going to get somewhat locked in, anyway. I keep wanting to start planning out my days with some type of initial plan, but again, knowing that I don't have all the info just keeps annoying me, so I never get very far. I just keep reading the Dis and filing info away for when it gets closer to my trip.

 

[TheFloatingBear]

I'm trying to build in our spontaneity and down-time as much as possible, lol! We don't have a lot of ADRs, but I feel like I need to make the best use of our FPs.

 

[ArielSRL]

@KateP85 I got the maps yesterday!! Thank you so very much for sending them! I was working with black and white ones I had printed and it just isn't the same visually speaking. And I have a (almost) newbie this time - DH hasn't been in 35 years - so I want to have those on hand if I need to show him anything.

Again, I very much appreciate that!

 

[TheFloatingBear]

Sometimes I wonder how it would be to be blissfully unaware when it comes to Disney. Like maybe I wouldn't stress so much if I had no idea what was maybe coming or what I was missing out on. But then I think of all those poor folks in the 120 minute stand by lines (even though that is to the extreme opposite of what I am) and I think maybe I'm in a better position....lol.

Our trip is June and I am not quite but almost in the same position as you. I have ADRs upon ADRs because I am not sure how things will play out but I realized the other day, I am going to have to book FP before I know everything I think I need to know so I am going to get somewhat locked in, anyway. I keep wanting to start planning out my days with some type of initial plan, but again, knowing that I don't have all the info just keeps annoying me, so I never get very far. I just keep reading the Dis and filing info away for when it gets closer to my trip.

We don't have a lot of ADRs, but we have some multiples of the ones we have, lol! We're doing club level, as the trip is a big splurge for my sister, so that takes some of the pressure of the ADRs to me. We have lunch booked for our two MK mornings, so we don't start arguing over where to eat when we're hot and tired! One or two dinners, otherwise, club apps and hopefully snacking around the World Showcase...we really want to do the Highway in the Sky thing, so hawking that at the moment!

I've been following along with the new morning opening procedure thing, to see how that will impact things...hoping for an EMH and we also have a tour in MK planned...

 

[HopperFan]

Sometimes I wonder how it would be to be blissfully unaware when it comes to Disney. Like maybe I wouldn't stress so much if I had no idea what was maybe coming or what I was missing out on. But then I think of all those poor folks in the 120 minute stand by lines (even though that is to the extreme opposite of what I am) and I think maybe I'm in a better position....lol.

Our trip is June and I am not quite but almost in the same position as you. I have ADRs upon ADRs because I am not sure how things will play out but I realized the other day, I am going to have to book FP before I know everything I think I need to know so I am going to get somewhat locked in, anyway. I keep wanting to start planning out my days with some type of initial plan, but again, knowing that I don't have all the info just keeps annoying me, so I never get very far. I just keep reading the Dis and filing info away for when it gets closer to my trip.

Well all know that no planning and thinking you can just show up is a recipe for disaster and misery for most.

We have APs and we can go often so MUCH LESS pressure. But even that, going with minimal plans, minimal ADRs and even (2 weeks out with no FP+ right now) works because ............ having years of experience, knowing it inside out, knowing the restaurants, the queues, etc by heart ......... allows us to make on the fly decisions that are successful.

 

[TheFloatingBear]

Well all know that no planning and thinking you can just show up is a recipe for disaster and misery for most.

We have APs and we can go often so MUCH LESS pressure. But even that, going with minimal plans, minimal ADRs and even (2 weeks out with no FP+ right now) works because ............ having years of experience, knowing it inside out, knowing the restaurants, the queues, etc by heart ......... allows us to make on the fly decisions that are successful.

I try to do a lot of research, so I know my options on the fly and can be flexible, but I definitely do not have that level of experience! Maybe someday! (however, I do have the wisdom to pick the brains of the more experienced!)

 

[ArielSRL]

Well all know that no planning and thinking you can just show up is a recipe for disaster and misery for most.

We have APs and we can go often so MUCH LESS pressure. But even that, going with minimal plans, minimal ADRs and even (2 weeks out with no FP+ right now) works because ............ having years of experience, knowing it inside out, knowing the restaurants, the queues, etc by heart ......... allows us to make on the fly decisions that are successful.

Yeh, I wish I could let it go more. I think if we visited more regularly - which I hope we will start doing - then I think I could be more chill about it. Last June was my boys' first (real) trip - oldest was 9.5 months his first trip, so that doesn't really "count" - so there was that pressure. This trip it's my DH's first in 35 years (I know I've said this already, sorry) so I feel extreme pressure to get it "right" so I can get him on board the Disney trip train! LOL. I'm just glad I went last June without him. I feel like it was my practice for the real thing. Haha. I'm really hoping for 2 trips every 3 years while the boys are young. I'd do more if I thought we could swing it.

 

[HopperFan]

I try to do a lot of research, so I know my options on the fly and can be flexible, but I definitely do not have that level of experience! Maybe someday! (however, I do have the wisdom to pick the brains of the more experienced!)

Haha, go the 22nd.
Made my first ADR last night.
Booked EMM last night.
Have no FP+, we don't know where we want to go.
Know we want to go to Epcot Arts Festival.

When just me and 1 or 2 for a week or more, plan tightly.
Shorter trips I can be more relaxed.
This trip is different, with different folks and we are all okay with letting the magic direct our week ............
Could be awesome and relaxing or could be a cluster equivalent of ROL.

[all adults]

 

[dnllmz]

But that is almost as much fun as going. Heading down in a couple weeks with DS1, DS2 will join, meeting up with far away Disney friend and time with our CM friend ........... just talked, no FP+, minimal ADRs and we decided lets just have fun, wing it, let the wind take us wherever .... and no pressure. Hard since I also do the spreadsheets with great detail in many colors .....................

Well all know that no planning and thinking you can just show up is a recipe for disaster and misery for most.

We have APs and we can go often so MUCH LESS pressure. But even that, going with minimal plans, minimal ADRs and even (2 weeks out with no FP+ right now) works because ............ having years of experience, knowing it inside out, knowing the restaurants, the queues, etc by heart ......... allows us to make on the fly decisions that are successful.

Your relaxed trip sounds nice. I think it would be cool to do a trip like that if I had your experience and ability to go often.

I'm kinda surprised how much I ended up loving all of the planning, snagging ADRs, making fastpasses, etc. When I first started to plan our Dec 2016 trip I was overwhelmed with it all but once I started to research some it became addicting. Now I get to plan a second trip for this Nov/Dec. Bring on the spreadsheets! But it'd be really awesome if ROL could get finished and opened before my 180 Days.

 

[TheFloatingBear]

Haha, go the 22nd.
Made my first ADR last night.
Booked EMM last night.
Have no FP+, we don't know where we want to go.
Know we want to go to Epcot Arts Festival.

When just me and 1 or 2 for a week or more, plan tightly.
Shorter trips I can be more relaxed.
This trip is different, with different folks and we are all okay with letting the magic direct our week ............
Could be awesome and relaxing or could be a cluster equivalent of ROL.

[all adults]

Sounds awesome to me...I'm sure the magic will direct you to lots of fun!

Yeh, I wish I could let it go more. I think if we visited more regularly - which I hope we will start doing - then I think I could be more chill about it. Last June was my boys' first (real) trip - oldest was 9.5 months his first trip, so there was that pressure. This trip it's my DH's first in 35 years (I know I've said this already, sorry) so I feel extreme pressure to get it "right" so I can get him on board the Disney trip train! LOL. I'm just glad I went last June without him. I feel like it was my practice for the real thing. Haha. I'm really hoping for 2 trips every 3 years while the boys are young. I'd do more if I thought we could swing it.

It's good that you had a practice run, lol! I'm sure that he will get on board! I definitely feel the pressure being the designated planner, especially given the peak crowds, but it's self-imposed, I think. Like I said, I've planned for flexibility for comings and goings and such, and of course we're adults responsible for our own fun. Having said that, I view the "Over Disney Sister" as a bit of a challenge - I just want her to have a blast! She's a bit of a paradox by nature, likes to be "spontaneous" but is a bit of a (self-acknowledged) control-freak. My other sister doesn't travel much. She was a single mom who put two kids through college by herself and is finally in a place where she can do something for herself. She has wanted to do an adult trip to Disney for many years - and staying in an Epcot resort is her dream! I know that we will have fun no matter what - that's just our personalities - but I really want this trip to be wonderful for her!

 

[HopperFan]

Your relaxed trip sounds nice. I think it would be cool to do a trip like that if I had your experience and ability to go often.

I'm kinda surprised how much I ended up loving all of the planning, snagging ADRs, making fastpasses, etc. When I first started to plan our Dec 2016 trip I was overwhelmed with it all but once I started to research some it became addicting. Now I get to plan a second trip for this Nov/Dec. Bring on the spreadsheets! But it'd be really awesome if ROL could get finished and opened before my 180 Days.

Oh I totally get the planning part. While been a long time since I booked ADRs at 180 other than specialty like I booked Club Villain, Highway in Sky Dining, EMM the days they were announced ....... and still grab Dining with Imagineer and others as soon as I can ............I do all the detailed planning for some trips. I do think that is part of the fun. Then always adjusting and changing. It's like trying to win something on ebay, the thrill of the hunt.

I am constantly changing FP+ while there because if I walk by one with a doable SB, I jump in line then change it while I'm in line. And we can roll them well. Week of holiday DS2 was there hanging with CM friend. One day they entered MK with 3 FP+, did them, picked up 4th at 9, left to eat with friends on 192, came back in by 9 and started to roll #4 FP+. Know how and they rolled it 12 times before the park closed. 15 FP+ in one day in about 6 hours.

Of course I take this beautiful color coded printed out plan and by time I get home there are scribbles and changes all over it.

 

[cmarsh31]

Well, when I start "Disney Dreaming" I usually end up making spread sheets - putting all the alternatives down, and it really helps me see the bigger picture...

CONFESSION: I've started doing that with our trip that won't happen until next September or October...talk about not having enough solid information!!! But it's already helped narrow down dates....we just have no idea what the park hours, add ons and EXTRAS will be.

I admit... our trip for Feb is pretty nailed down, but I keep staring at the final spreadsheet - just want to tweak a little more. Yes. Final spreadsheet. I'm with you - I had 3 other drafts of possibilities (dates, resorts, endlessly running prices and combinations...)

 

[KateP85]

@KateP85 I got the maps yesterday!! Thank you so very much for sending them! I was working with black and white ones I had printed and it just isn't the same visually speaking. And I have a (almost) newbie this time - DH hasn't been in 35 years - so I want to have those on hand if I need to show him anything.

Again, I very much appreciate that!

Oh yay, I'm so happy they made it! I honestly had no idea what postage would be, so I just kept putting stamps on the envelope until it looked OK - I was so nervous they wouldn't get there!

 

[KateP85]

We're going to check out the Festival of the Arts on Friday. I had a look at the menus and the food looks so good! I'm really excited for something new at Epcot, I think it sounds pretty fantastic.

 

[HopperFan]

We're going to check out the Festival of the Arts on Friday. I had a look at the menus and the food looks so good! I'm really excited for something new at Epcot, I think it sounds pretty fantastic.

Very excited.
Each new release of info makes it look better and better and am IN LOVE with the Figment merchandise.

 

[ArielSRL]

Oh yay, I'm so happy they made it! I honestly had no idea what postage would be, so I just kept putting stamps on the envelope until it looked OK - I was so nervous they wouldn't get there!

Thank you again!