ABCs of a Nursing School Grad Trip + FL Keys Mini Report;D is for: Dang! Last Chapter of this TR...

[franandaj]

Hey look, teenager! There's no lines over at Space Mountain!

Said no one!

 

[Steppesister]

She's be gone a llooooooong time though...

 

[Steppesister]

I never heard of a per diem employee. Time for Polly to google..

Kinda means "on call". No regular schedule and no guaranteed hours. Of course no benefits either.

 

[Steppesister]

I've never thought of that, maybe even some ginger caplets...



Sweet! I can't wait to hear what shannegans go down when all of you get together!

Yes, ginger works quite well!

We'll see what mayhem we can conjure up! Just for you!!

 

[Princess Leia]

I'm all caught up!
I struggled to get the E in the photo competition. I went... UK, Britain, Great Britain..they don't begin with E. Aww England!
I loved your Hallowe'en photos.
I feel for you on the phone. On our 2015 trip Hannah left hers on a bus!

I never heard of a per diem employee. Time for Polly to google..

I think we would probably call it agency work unless it is a zero hours contract. Liesa are you directly employed by the hospital? My favourite phrase using the Latin diem is Carpe diem meaning 'Seize the day'. A motto I try to live by.

I heard a statistic that actually shocked me the other day. Only 72% of American own one. REALLY?! I thought it'd be more like 95%. Interesting anyway.

I suppose that's still a lot higher than Americans who own a passport. Statistics are always an interesting thing in that there is such a wide variance between sources. As the saying goes 'There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics' or 'Facts are stubborn things, but statistics are more pliable'. As for politicians...we're not allowed to discuss them.

 

[DonnaBeeGood]

.

 

[Paula Sedley-Burke]

Kinda means "on call". No regular schedule and no guaranteed hours. Of course no benefits either.

I see. Thank you. I think @Princess Leia is right we call this agency or bank.

 

[Captain_Oblivious]

I’d find out if my faith in humanity would be upheld… or shot down like a “a good idea” coming out of an HR Dept.

Is there anyone in America that likes their HR department?

I set my sneakers to warp speed and was at the ride's disembarking platform in no time. Because warp speed does that to time. More or less. No, I won't debate you on this.

You got those Flux Capacitor shoes, then.

But before she would hand it to me, she asked me to enter the passcode while she watched. Savvy, Disney. Savvy!

Is it 12345? Same combination I have on my luggage.

And nowadays everyone has a cell phone. (Except my husband. He commutes to work with a horse and buggy too. But that’s another discussion for another day. )

And here I thought I was the last holdout on cell phones. He wins!

Maybe? Would someone really tell you, though, if they had been waiting forever for you and were anxious to get on with the day?

Sure, if he/she is a jerk.

I saw someone waving from a bench near the ride exit and assumed it was her anyway, so I said HI! from across the courtyard. Good thing it was her! That’d been pretty awkward if it wasn't. Then again, I do a lot of awkward things and still seem to have one or two friends.

Good job on the meet-up!

She introduced me to the guy sitting next to her, and I guessed correctly it was her husband.

This also would have been awkward if you were wrong.

Finally I heard back with a typical, “Where ARE you?!” As if I was the one not doing my part to meet back up. Dryly, i replied, "Right here by the ride exit where I told you to meet me!” “Okay, be right there.”

Parenthood is so glamorous sometimes.

 

[Steppesister]

I think we would probably call it agency work unless it is a zero hours contract. Liesa are you directly employed by the hospital? My favourite phrase using the Latin diem is Carpe diem meaning 'Seize the day'. A motto I try to live by.

I see. Thank you. I think @Princess Leia is right we call this agency or bank.

Actually, no. Well, I supposed it could be that. But in my case, I am a direct employee of my ambulatory surgical center, and it's more of a Zero Hours Contract. I am not guaranteed hours, get no benefits nor PTO. BUT, and here's where it works to my own advantage: I get a higher hourly payrate, can opt out if called in or say no to shifts if I have other stuff going on, and don't HAVE to work a minimum 20 or 30 hours (pt/ft) in order to keep said bennies. Luckily, I don't need the bennies due to my husband getting them with his job with the State of Oregon. Insurances are covered as well as most of the retirement he thinks we need. So for my situation it's a win-win. Does that make more sense?

 

[Steppesister]

I'm all caught up!
I struggled to get the E in the photo competition. I went... UK, Britain, Great Britain..they don't begin with E. Aww England!
I loved your Hallowe'en photos.
I feel for you on the phone. On our 2015 trip Hannah left hers on a bus!

Thanks, Fiona! I know the E was a bit tricky since I had to get a bit creative with the Letter. I"ll have I and J up very soon!

Oh dear one left on a bus I'd think would be even more problematic. Did you get it back? Was it at Central Lost and Found?

I suppose that's still a lot higher than Americans who own a passport. Statistics are always an interesting thing in that there is such a wide variance between sources. As the saying goes 'There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics' or 'Facts are stubborn things, but statistics are more pliable'. As for politicians...we're not allowed to discuss them.

There sure are! And I can get a bit edgy here on this thread, but politics is certainly one area I really steer WAY clear from. Too many charged opinions and whatever way you fall, half the people will be not on the fence as you. Just too polarizing. But, in person I'm happy to talk about anything. And you know what, at the end of the day, wherever you stand, I'm still gonna like you if you treat me with respect and kindness.

Since you asked... currently reading a cozy mystery series by Becki Willis called The Sisters, Texas Mystery Series. I'm on book 3 out of 4, and I really like the main character, Madison. Next up for my book club is Stone Song: A Novel Of The Life Of Crazy Horse by Win Blevins. Then, for my holiday in February I have The Princes Of Ireland by Edward Rutherford, Property Of A Noblewoman by Danielle Steel, and Commitment by Julie Ellis, as well as a couple of audiobooks for back up... (secretly I long to be a book proofreader...)

WOW! That is a rather extensive list. I just don't read much anymore; I guess I'd rather write. Still trying to make it through Harry Potter #4.

 

[Steppesister]

Glad you found your phone. We spent yesterday morning going through the house looking for Judy's wristlet. The last place she could remember using it was a pizza place where she had brought home a pizza earlier in the week (I was away on business), but she was sure she brought it home. Finally I said, well why don't you call and ask them if they have it there. She did, and they had it. Much relief, but we thought it was strange that they never called to say, "hey, we have your little purse". They have our phone number to be sure that we won't order a pizza and not pick it up.

What's up with that?! Seems like a pretty duh thing to call a customer who'd left something? Maybe they didn't know which customer's it was.

But yeah, huge relief. Losing a purse is almost worse than a phone- new DL, CCs, and WORSE yet, coffee punch cards!

 

[Steppesister]

Is there anyone in America that likes their HR department?

I should put up a poll. But I already know the results.

You got those Flux Capacitor shoes, then.

Can you just picture me running at 88 mph?

Is it 12345? Same combination I have on my luggage.

Close. And it's the same as like every single one of our ATM cards, and passwords. We're lame like that.

And here I thought I was the last holdout on cell phones. He wins!

So, do you scoop your horse's poop when you drive?

This also would have been awkward if you were wrong.

Well, yeah!

Parenthood is so glamorous sometimes.

I especially love the part where you find your kid eating the old kidney beans off the gray water waste dump at the campsite.

 

[Steppesister]

J is for Just Me, Yet Just Amazing​

Some evenings are magical. And some are almost perfect. This was one of those.

The plans for this enchanted evening were put into motion months, no, almost a year before. I put out the call to anyone who’d respond to join me at Victoria and Albert's. For those of you who might be unfamiliar with Vic and Al’s, here is an excerpt from their website which I shamelessly pilfered to enlighten you:

“The ultimate in fine dining at WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort and one of the finest restaurants in the Southeast, Victoria & Albert’s features Modern American cuisine with exquisite products sourced from around the world – truffles from Italy, the finest caviar, fresh herbs from Ohio, beef from Japan, poulet rouge from North Carolina, oysters from North Florida. Chef Scott Hunnel’s approach is imaginative and his food is an art form, featuring vivid colors and textures, with exquisite wine pairings offered with each course. Recipient of AAA’s highest achievement, the Five Diamond Award, “Forbes Travel Guide” Four Star rating and glowing reviews from Zagat and others, the restaurant in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa evokes another era when dining was an elegant ritual, with a knowledgeable maître d’hôtel and chefs in classic white toques.”




I realized that it was a major longshot to get a dinner partner for this extravagant splurge, but still thought it’d be more fun to share such an experience. I mean how many times in my life will I drop almost $350 on dinner for one? Yes, I’ve sat in front of show kitchens before; yes, I’ve had my napkin folded on my chair while I’ve stepped out; yes, I’ve had wine pairings with each course, but this… THIS!

Alas, it was not to be, and you know what?! I was TOTALLY okay with that. I have done many solo vacations and have spent a lot of time by myself just doing my thing, and I am truly, completely comfortable in my own company.

I chose to wear the same dress I’d worn for my Nurse’s Pinning Ceremony; it seemed appropriate as my Graduation Celebration continued on. The dress code is pretty strict and specific. Here that is, in case you may be curious:

"Please prepare for your unforgettable evening by reviewing Victoria & Albert’s dress code.

All Guests - Proper attire is required.

Men - Sport coat or suit jacket with slacks or dress pants; tie is optional.

Women - Cocktail dress, evening dress or elegant separates, such as a pantsuit or skirt and blouse.

Casual attire, such as jeans, shorts, capris, sandals, flip-flops or athletic shoes, is not permitted."

That was copied directly from my confirmation email received from them. I LOVE dressing up! This is my kind of place! I’ve done Civil War re-enacting, sewn by hand, worn, and danced in formal 1860s ballgowns, and love costuming pretty much anything. Anyway, I was super thrilled to get all gussied up for this truly special occasion. You know what made it even better? I found yet one more reason to wear my tiara. Who doesn’t love a tiara? (guys, I’ll allow you to skip that question.)

An hour before my scheduled seating, because most people can’t just hop on a bus and expect to be anywhere on Disney property in 10 minutes like some, ok, one, of our illustrious colleagues here, I set out. Ahem. I felt pretty much like Cinderella going to the ball as I got into my Royal Coach headed towards the MK. I thought the curious looks were rather amusing; I mean who wears a formal dress, gold heels, and a tiara when they’re at Disney unless they are about to do something pretty dang special? I still had plenty of time to spare as I emerged from the Coach and made my way up the ramp towards the monorail- the only REAL way to arrive in class and style at the Grand Floridian. Your Queen was pleased.



I stood there in the very short line, and just in front of me stood quite possibly the fairest princess in all the land. The most beautiful little pixie I’d ever beheld. In a gown almost as pretty as she, she waited patiently with her Mom and Dad and HOLY Crap!.... we had matching tiaras!!! There was NO WAY I wasn’t going to give her royal greetings and become her friend. So I did. I told her how striking she looked and asked if she was going somewhere special. She instantly engaged me in very sweet conversation telling me her name, and that she and her parents were there for their annual Christmas card photoshoot- that they were locals and did formal castle shots each year. We continued to talk and I told her I was going to a very special dinner, so I wanted to look like a princess too. Of allllll the magical things I experienced over the course of the evening, her telling me that I did was the best of all. We shared a sweet bond that lasted far too short a time. After a little bit, our monorail came and we got on together. She asked her mom and dad if she could sit with “her new friend”. This sweet little girl, 7 years old, wanted to sit by me! Awwwww! Before we arrived, I asked her parents if I could get a photo with her and handed him my phone (SO glad I had found it, for this, if nothing else the whole trip!) and he snapped this:

It is no doubt my favorite photo of the entire trip.

We arrived at the platform and had to part ways. She was just about to the door, but suddenly turned around and ran back to me, and gave me a huge, giant hug. I nearly burst into tears. She was so sweet and adorable, and I wished I could have spent a whole day with her at the Magic Kingdom. But now it was time to say goodbye and head to dinner.

I wasn’t actually sure where it was located, so asked the nearest CM as I came into the cavernous and ornate lobby. The piano music filled the space creating a luxurious atmosphere to be welcomed into. I’ve spent some time just sitting in this area with my eyes closed on a couch taking in the live music on past trips, and it was nearly my reservation time, so didn’t stop this time. Pointed in the right direction, I easily found the entrance and was instantly greeted BY NAME as the door was opened for me. “Good evening, Mrs. Buren. Welcome to Victoria and Albert’s”.

The Maître d'Hotel greeted me at the podium, again by name, and informed me that he was there to ensure my service and experience were impeccable that evening. Since he was in a tux and knew my name we were off to a great start. Little did I know the next few hours would FAR exceed every expectation I had when I walked in.

I was then handed off to a host who showed me to my table set for a solitary, yet completely content diner. Immediately, I was greeted and introduced to my, not one, but two, servers, Sharon, and some other guy. Sorry, some other guy, you brought plates out to me and were there, but you were outshone by the blazing star named Sharon.





When you make a booking at Vic and Al’s you have several choices, from which room you are seated in to the number of courses you enjoy. In addition, you have the choice of adding wine pairings with each course. I opted for the 10 course dinner in the Main Dining Room with no wine pairings. By this point in my trip I was on Letters K and L and thought I’d take a shot at getting those knocked off my list. Sharon was actually tickled at this little game she now got to be part of playing with me. She quickly accepted the challenge and informed me she was going to bring over the Sommolier to aid in my quest. He recommended, from his limited choices, a Kabinett. For you wine snobs, and I know there’s a least one of you, a German Kabinett is:

“In 1971, the term Kabinett was officially noted in German wine law, and it was given its current definition which applies to wines which are light and non-chaptalized. Kabinett's current definition differs greatly from its etymological implications of it being areserve wine. Before 1971, the terms Naturwein (natural wine) orNatuerrein (naturally pure) were used in place of Kabinett. These terms designated non-chaptalized wine, where no other designations, such asSpätleseorAuslese, applied.[5] “ Thank you Wikipedia.

So, in addition to a nice glass of a white with the first few courses, a lovely glass of sparkling water was poured for me. Sharon then proceeded to explain how the evening would progress and that at this point I needed to choose either the 7 or the 10 course dinner. I chose the 10 as I've said, wanting to have as many tastes and flavors as possible. Little did I know…. There are also some additions you could add for an upcharge, like Wagyu instead of the Kobe. I stuck with the suggested prix fixe and was more than satisfied. But we’ll get to that.



Here is my personalized menu to guide you through the courses:





Now, close your eyes. Imagine, if you will, a harpist softly strumming songs from Classic Disney movies, the delicate, occasional clinking of silver utensils on plates, soft conversation. The delicious aromas of cooked breads and meats and wine fill the air. Okay, open them. Around the dining room you see elegant tables bedecked with red roses, gigantic bouquets of fresh flowers, fabric wallpaper, fine linens, candles, wine glasses filled with beautiful red liquids, people with smiles, perfectly composed and well-behaved. Quietly around the edges the wait staff stand ready to attend to any anticipated needs of their patrons, decked in tuxes with towels over arms. Yes, it was just like in the movies.



With no rush or hurry, Sharon arrived with the Amuse Bouche: Cauliflower Panna Cotta with American Caviar.



Yes. Why in fact that is a mother of pearl hand carved spoon that I shall dine from.

If there is a food in Heaven, this is it. I’m pretty sure God Himself was in the kitchen and prepared this. Literally, if that was the only thing brought out to me all night long, I’d have gone home happy. She also brought the first bread course- a mini sourdough baguette with a fancy butter. No, it wasn’t just butter, but I didn’t get stuck on the individual butters (there were 3 specific butters, one for each bread course) except the truffle butter for the middle bread course.



It was about this point that I knew why this establishment has earned the 5 Diamond status. Every single course that followed was unbelievably delicious in every meaning of the word. I won’t drone on and on about each course, as you can read the following menu. But suffice to say, the presentation was impeccable. It was carefully paced to make the evening as relaxing and elegant as possible.



The salmon with creme fraiche and dill.

The next course after that afforded my only slight faux pas of the night. The first fish course was the sablefish and was served with a little heap of fresh grated horseradish served on a sharkskin paddle. No idea of the significance, but there ya have it. It looked like this:




Henna was still holding out. I'm sure it was out of place, but yeah, who cares:



I was enjoying the dish so much that I actually FORGOT the herb was sitting there, and Sharon asked if I didn't care for it. EEK! I did like it, love horseradish in fact, and this was NOT the overpowering kind used for sauces, so ate it with...

2nd Fish Course:



When the roasted duck course was served, Sharon presented me with the Red Wine of the Sommolier’s choice, a Pinot Noir, from right here in the Willamette Valley- the varietal we are famous for. At this point, I mentioned to my “other waiter” that I lived in the Willamette Valley winery area and have this very label’s tasting room within mere miles of me. This immediately brought the Maitre d’ to my table who wanted to know about my area, and talk about Oregon wines. I don’t know a lot about wine actually, but I could carry this conversation well and it was fun hearing about how they compared with the French Noirs that grow in similar Laterite soils. Don’t I sound hoity-toity? LOL!



So, that takes care of K and L and I was feeling pretty happy by then. Remember this. It’s important. Because I’m about to tell you a pretty funny story now. Right around the Veal Course I had to go potty. I discreetly asked Sharon to point the way to the Ladies’ Room and made my way there. Easy enough. Did my potty thing, used the linen guest towels, wiped with gold leafing, and then…..




Got lost trying to find my table again.


No, literally. I could not find where I had come from. I took a wrong turn coming back out and wound up in the wrong area. I made a U-turn and found my way back but things still looked really unfamiliar. One waiter in the back saw my confusion and asked if he could help me. “Yeah, I’m a little lost.” “Oh, Madam, please follow me.”. I was totally mortified. I wasn’t even that juiced up, but I am CERTAIN he was like…”Sharon, cut that chick off!” In my defense, once you get past the dining room, it’s a bit of a maze back there and I wasn’t paying any attention when I left my seat as I passed the chocolate truffle cart and got a little.... distracted.

The smoked duck:



Have you ever had a dish served to you literally served IN its smoke? It came served under a domed glass dish, and when the server lifted it, the smoke came swirling out all around me. So. Cool.

Safely back at my table and noshing on duck, at some point I got a little chilly and Sharon noticed me rubbing my bare arms. She unobtrusively came a little closer and asked quietly if I was chilled. I confessed I was a bit, and without another word she appeared with a silk pashmina and gently wrapped it around my shoulders. I thought it an extremely classy and thoughtful move. There is nothing V&As doesn’t consider.

The 2nd Bread Course- something with truffles with a complimentary Truffle butter:



Now, sit back and enjoy a photo montage of dish after dish of food artistry. If this isn't food porn, there is no such thing.











Sorry, I thought the baby zucchini was just too adorable to ignore.

Soon the cheese course was presented. While I’m not really a wine snob, I am a bit of a coffee and a cheese snob. I have actually bought cheeses that I’ve had with cheese flights I’ve ordered and wanted to have a record of what I’d eaten. Sharon went WAY above and beyond at this point and offered to take my phone to the kitchen and get pictures of all the labels from the 5 selections I would be tasting.

Here is the presentation of the cheeses; I will spare you from the cheeses' labels.



SCORE! At the same time the cheeses were presented, she also had a surprise for me. Since I was on Letter M at this point, she wanted to give me a small pour of a very sweet dessert Muscato. Ummm, ok. How could I refuse that? So I sipped on that through the cheeses and dessert courses. Yes, there were 2. Sadly, I didn’t get a photo of the last one. But it looked like giant chocolate eyelashes. So I stole this one off the interwebs. Thanks interwebber.

Yes, I ate the gold leafing:







Now, I’m gonna be honest. I started to peter out right about the middle of the cheeses. JUST. TOO. MUCH. Too much food. Too much wine. Too full!!!!

I was glad when the coffee finally arrived as this signaled the nearing of end to this decadent evening. On every level, this experience was completely, over-the-top, decadent.

I know good coffee when I taste it. This was not good coffee. It was GREAT coffee, brewed using a method I’ve never seen before. It is prepared using a vacuum method and hard to describe. Best just to see it yourself. Suffice to say, it’s a pretty cool show and quite mesmorizing.





After she poured my coffee and left me to my own thoughts, Sharon returned with a grin on her face.



<This is where things get really, REALLY COOL, People!>


“Liesa, sorry to bother you, but the table of 4 just over there, is asking for the pleasure of your company for coffee and conversation.”.


Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuhhhhh, ok!


“Please tell them I accept.”

“Yes, Ma’am. We’ll have your things taken over and get a place setting arranged for you. Give us a moment.”


Ho. Lee. Crap.


Not long afterwards I was escorted to the table where 2 couples were obviously quite… happy. Not obnoxious nor boisterous but pretty wined-up. No one was slurring any words or being crass. It was just a happy table of people having a really nice time.

One by one they introduced themselves and I was IMMEDIATELY struck by the heavy Scottish accents around the table. Sadly, I don’t remember any of their names, but make no mistake I DEFINTELY REMEMBER their last names. Because this is cool.


“Hello. My name is Something MacLaren. “



“No. Way! My maternal grandmother was full Scotch, and her father was Clan MacLaren. He was from the Highlands and immigrated just before the war.”

<the other side of the table>

“Hello. My name is Something Else MacLeod”.

Okay, now things just get.... bizarre.

My Grandmother's MOTHER was Clan MacLeod. We joked together a lot about the Clan MacLeod’s tartan… “Loud MacLeod”.

I turned to the first gentleman and he exclaimed (a bit loudly in heavy brogue), “I blimey just invited the family to dinner!”

So, I’d had already 3 glasses of wine and was a pretty tipsy at that point, so when they ordered another bottle and I was given another pouring, I was like uhhh….. ok, this is gonna be interestsing. We talked and laughed, sipped, ate chocolate, and pretty much closed the place down. I sat with them at least another hour, and we were the last ones out of the place and probably had the most fun of all the patrons that night.

Before leaving, with one more glass of wine on board than I really wanted or needed, Sharon came to me and discreetly had me take care of my tab. All told, it was came to $348.67 including tax and tip and 2 glasses of purchased wine. And it was TOTALLY worth it. TOTALLY. In addition to the check, she handed me a black embossed bag with my personalized menu, a box of 5 assorted truffles and a long-stemmed red rose. Normally, each guest would choose their truffles from a cart wheeled tableside, but wisely they chose to let our conversation continue without interruption. Again, attention to detail and impeccable service.





SEE?! I found my monorail home no problem!

The only thing that would have made for a more perfect evening would have been a dinner partner. But if you are contemplating going, and are comfortable in your own company, I can’t recommend this experience enough. It is perfectly magical in every sense and something I will remember forever.

 

[Paula Sedley-Burke]

Actually, no. Well, I supposed it could be that. But in my case, I am a direct employee of my ambulatory surgical center, and it's more of a Zero Hours Contract. I am not guaranteed hours, get no benefits nor PTO. BUT, and here's where it works to my own advantage: I get a higher hourly payrate, can opt out if called in or say no to shifts if I have other stuff going on, and don't HAVE to work a minimum 20 or 30 hours (pt/ft) in order to keep said bennies. Luckily, I don't need the bennies due to my husband getting them with his job with the State of Oregon. Insurances are covered as well as most of the retirement he thinks we need. So for my situation it's a win-win. Does that make more sense?

Yes it does. I don't think we have anything similar here. Maybe zero cintract hours but we have strict employment laws where the employer must offer benefits.

 

[Paula Sedley-Burke]

Wow Victoria and Alberts! What an amazing experience and what a beautiful princess you were that night. How neat wearing a tiara.

That little girl you made friends with beyond cute.

I have often wondered if it was worth the price tag sounds amazing. Caviar.. The service.. Smoke duck! That presentation. Nice touch to bring you a garment when you were cold.

How nice the Scots asked for the pleasure of your company and you could trade names!

Loved reading your report on V & A.

 

[pkondz]

Just a tad late... but trying to catch up!

no new Corvettes (do you see the little tear running down my face?),

I was thinking... "Maybe I should get one?"

So this morning, just for fun, I decided to see how much one would set me back.

Um....

I saw to split windows (which, believe it or not, are not my thing.) and a 56 red and white one (which is) and....

The cheap one was $130,000....


So.... no.

In fact, I got exactly ZERO hours this whole week.

Did you pick some up after all?

Having been soundly disappointed with Soarin’,

Yeah....
But... hopefully in the middle??

I will give this another try.

It took an interminably long time, made more anguishing knowing that in about 10 minutes, I’d find out if my faith in humanity would be upheld… or shot down like a “a good idea” coming out of an HR Dept.

Funny how time seems to stop in those situations.

I set my sneakers to warp speed and was at the ride's disembarking platform in no time.

Now this I understand!

(Ok, ok. Yes, it was my phone.)

Yay!!!!!

To be very honest, I had thought my chances of recovering that phone were better than not. I knew right where I’d lost it, and well… it’s Disney.

So.. no waves of relief washing over you? Really?

(Except my husband. He commutes to work with a horse and buggy too. But that’s another discussion for another day. )

Sounds like a real character.

Although I haven’t yet, before my trip in March I’ll be getting a tile to put on the phone,

That's those gps tiles, right? I should do that too... hmmmm..... where do you get them?

And c) I don't want some of my stuff ON the Cloud.

Well, now I want to see your phone to see just what sort of naughty things are on there that you don't want on the Cloud.

I had a phone call to make… to Shelly, aka @DISNEYMOON10121991 .

Hey! I know her!

(Maybe? Would someone really tell you, though, if they had been waiting forever for you and were anxious to get on with the day?)

No. At least I wouldn't. This is why.
"Pkondz paces back and forth... 'Where could she be??' Maybe I got the time wrong. Maybe she did. Maybe she got delayed. Maybe I'm in the wrong spot. Maybe..... Oh! There she is! Yay! Hi Liesa!"
And I'm too happy to see the person I'm waiting for to even remember all the angst.

so I said HI! from across the courtyard. Good thing it was her! That’d been pretty awkward if it wasn't.

(Kinda wishing it hadn't been.)

actually spent a good 20-30 minutes talking while the kids went off to do Mission Space.

nice.

By 14 and 18 they can puke their way home on a Disney bus all by themselves.

Aren’t my parenting skills astounding?!

Actually... yes. Life skills. Gotta have 'em.

Two pretty ladies.

Finally I heard back with a typical, “Where ARE you?!” As if I was the one not doing my part to meet back up. Dryly, i replied, "Right here by the ride exit where I told you to meet me!” “Okay, be right there.”

Every parent. Everywhere.

So, I did it. And believe it or not, I actually enjoyed it.

Really! I didn't feel too great after riding it.

AND we all came out unscathed with all of our pocket technology right where it belonged- NOT in pockets!

Not in pockets? So... in the bag... which you left behind?

Yes, they do like speakers with sub woofers, gloves, socks and pants.

I knew you'd understand!

I actually am formulating a strategy, and indeed may change a couple.

And you did... and successfully too.

Shut yer trap. You have a Harley. I'm crying a river for you.... See?

Be jealous... be very jealous.

HEY! I have an idea. I'll bring the neon green lights in from the garage and install them near the faucet so it can be more Fountain-of-Nationsesque!!

Kitchen remodel done!

Yep. Well, not Silestone brand, but manufactured granite anyway.

I'll take full credit when you show off your new kitchen.

Why yes! Yes, you are!

 

[pkondz]

I remember a major blowout in about 2009 or so? when more than a bunch of folks were caught DISBashing on another site and were all tossed out on their noses in one fell swoop.

Really! Hadn't heard of that.
I'm a little surprised.... That flies in the face of freedom of expression, doesn't it?

Well..... uh.... Wow! Aren't the DISboards great!

Well we can't get into that much trouble, we do have to set a good example for the teenager!

Hey look, teenager! There's no lines over at Space Mountain!

She's be gone a llooooooong time though...

You two do know that's my kid you're talking about right?

 

[ljcrochet]

You v & a meal sounds amazing. We did V & A for our anniversary 2 years in a row. Both were out of this world experiences. We didn't get to pick out truffles either time.

I remember the looks we got in the bus from SSR going to MK.

 

[pkondz]

J is for Just Me, Yet Just Amazing

Why yes! Yes you are!

Some evenings are magical. And some are almost perfect. This was one of those.

So glad to hear that you had a wonderful time.

I put out the call to anyone who’d respond to join me at Victoria and Albert's.

I do remember that call. I would gladly have accompanied you if I'd been able to go then.

chefs in classic white toques.

Meh. We see people in toques up here all the time.

I realized that it was a major longshot to get a dinner partner for this extravagant splurge, but still thought it’d be more fun to share such an experience.

Sorry! I really would have!

Yes, I’ve sat in front of show kitchens before; yes, I’ve had my napkin folded on my chair while I’ve stepped out; yes, I’ve had wine pairings with each course, but this… THIS!

Ditto... but... not for years and well... definitely not Ruby's cup of tea.

Alas, it was not to be, and you know what?! I was TOTALLY okay with that. I have done many solo vacations and have spent a lot of time by myself just doing my thing, and I am truly, completely comfortable in my own company.

I know that feeling.
I usually say I'm my own best entertainment.

Men - Sport coat or suit jacket with slacks or dress pants; tie is optional.

What? Dress pants? What's wrong with a classic sport coat and jeans????

Fine. I'll pack pants if I ever do this (not likely to do that solo, though... and Ruby's probably not going to go to WDW any time soon and definitely would feel super uncomfortable doing this, so.... )
At least I can wear my runners.

Casual attire, such as jeans, shorts, capris, sandals, flip-flops or athletic shoes, is not permitted."

Dang it!

I LOVE dressing up! This is my kind of place! I’ve done Civil War re-enacting, sewn by hand, worn, and danced in formal 1860s ballgowns, and love costuming pretty much anything.

That's not dressing up. That's costuming.
Must admit... I prefer costumes to dressing up...


Then again... I seldom get the chance.

You know what made it even better? I found yet one more reason to wear my tiara. Who doesn’t love a tiara? (guys, I’ll allow you to skip that question.)

You go on ahead without me.

An hour before my scheduled seating, because most people can’t just hop on a bus and expect to be anywhere on Disney property in 10 minutes like some, ok, one, of our illustrious colleagues here, I set out.

Don't understand.... it takes someone 10 minutes? Slow. Huh.

the monorail- the only REAL way to arrive in class and style at the Grand Floridian.

Ah. So if Disney said "Mrs. Buren, we would like to take you to dinner in our Cinderella carriage." You'd be "Nah. I'm good. I prefer the monorail."

Got it.

I stood there in the very short line, and just in front of me stood quite possibly the fairest princess in all the land. The most beautiful little pixie I’d ever beheld. In a gown almost as pretty as she, she waited patiently with her Mom and Dad and HOLY Crap!.... we had matching tiaras!!! There was NO WAY I wasn’t going to give her royal greetings and become her friend

Very cute story.

We continued to talk and I told her I was going to a very special dinner, so I wanted to look like a princess too. Of allllll the magical things I experienced over the course of the evening, her telling me that I did was the best of all.

This is really nice... and.. I'm a bit jealous.
You can get away with that. If I had a little kid come up to me and engage me like that, the parents would be looking at me suspiciously the whole time.
I try to keep a distance as a result. Makes spreading pixie dust a bit problematic.

It is no doubt my favorite photo of the entire trip.

And I totally see why. That's not only a great memory, but it's an excellent photo.

We arrived at the platform and had to part ways. She was just about to the door, but suddenly turned around and ran back to me, and gave me a huge, giant hug. I nearly burst into tears.

Awwwwww!!!

The piano music filled the space creating a luxurious atmosphere to be welcomed into.

Beautiful.... I've never been.

I’ve spent some time just sitting in this area with my eyes closed on a couch taking in the live music on past trips,

In pkondz's hustle and bustle trips, I doubt I'll ever have the chance to do this.

I easily found the entrance and was instantly greeted BY NAME as the door was opened for me. “Good evening, Mrs. Buren. Welcome to Victoria and Albert’s”.

Question. I noticed you are not wearing your MB. Did you have it with you in a purse? Or how did they know you?

Since he was in a tux and knew my name we were off to a great start.

So that's what it takes!

my, not one, but two, servers, Sharon, and some other guy. Sorry, some other guy, you brought plates out to me and were there, but you were outshone by the blazing star named Sharon.

Very pretty. What's the small dome between the flowers and your plate?

“In 1971, the term Kabinett was officially noted in German wine law, and it was given its current definition which applies to wines which are light and non-chaptalized. Kabinett's current definition differs greatly from its etymological implications of it being areserve wine. Before 1971, the terms Naturwein (natural wine) orNatuerrein (naturally pure) were used in place of Kabinett. These terms designated non-chaptalized wine, where no other designations, such asSpätleseorAuslese, applied.[5] “

Is this a foreign language? No idea what you just quoted.

There are also some additions you could add for an upcharge, like Wagyu instead of the Kobe.

Now that I would do.

Here is my personalized menu to guide you through the courses:

I actually had to go back up.
"Wait a sec... she said personalized."

Sure enough... your name... and a personal congratulations! Nice touch!

Now, close your eyes. Imagine, if you will, a harpist softly strumming songs from Classic Disney movies, the delicate, occasional clinking of silver utensils on plates, soft conversation. The delicious aromas of cooked breads and meats and wine fill the air.

mmmmmm.... yes......

the dining room you see elegant tables bedecked with red roses, gigantic bouquets of fresh flowers, fabric wallpaper, fine linens, candles, wine glasses filled with beautiful red liquids, people with smiles, perfectly composed and well-behaved. Quietly around the edges the wait staff stand ready to attend to any anticipated needs of their patrons, decked in tuxes with towels over arms. Yes, it was just like in the movies.

Sounds absolutely stunning.

Yes. Why in fact that is a mother of pearl hand carved spoon that I shall dine from.

No. Wow.

If there is a food in Heaven, this is it. I’m pretty sure God Himself was in the kitchen and prepared this. Literally, if that was the only thing brought out to me all night long, I’d have gone home happy.

Very impressive.

It was about this point that I knew why this establishment has earned the 5 Diamond status. Every single course that followed was unbelievably delicious in every meaning of the word.

I've done that once. But it pales in comparison to this.

It was carefully paced to make the evening as relaxing and elegant as possible.

Nice.

The first fish course was the sablefish and was served with a little heap of fresh grated horseradish served on a sharkskin paddle.

I'm not a fan of horseradish... but then again, I've never had fresh.

At this point, I mentioned to my “other waiter” that I lived in the Willamette Valley winery area and have this very label’s tasting room within mere miles of me. This immediately brought the Maitre d’ to my table who wanted to know about my area, and talk about Oregon wines.

Oh, really! Who knew more? Him or you?

I don’t know a lot about wine actually, but I could carry this conversation well and it was fun hearing about how they compared with the French Noirs that grow in similar Laterite soils. Don’t I sound hoity-toity? LOL!

I could easily carry that conversation.
"Uh, huh. Sure. Okay. Yep. You bet..."

My wine knowledge comes in two packages. "I like that." and "I don't like that."

Got lost trying to find my table again.

I was totally mortified. I wasn’t even that juiced up, but I am CERTAIN he was like…”Sharon, cut that chick off!”

Sure you weren't.... Sure, Liesa....

In my defense, once you get past the dining room, it’s a bit of a maze back there and I wasn’t paying any attention when I left my seat as I passed the chocolate truffle cart and got a little.... distracted.

Oh. I see totally understandable.
I mean if you see a chocolate truffle cart, it's definitely going to make you stop. And then after a bit you might lose your way because you're lost in chocolate dreams.



Of course when you add in stumbling around drunk to the equation....

Have you ever had a dish served to you literally served IN its smoke? It came served under a domed glass dish, and when the server lifted it, the smoke came swirling out all around me. So. Cool.

No. Way!

That is COOL!
Never seen that. Or even heard of it.

Safely back at my table and noshing on duck, at some point I got a little chilly and Sharon noticed me rubbing my bare arms. She unobtrusively came a little closer and asked quietly if I was chilled. I confessed I was a bit, and without another word she appeared with a silk pashmina and gently wrapped it around my shoulders. I thought it an extremely classy and thoughtful move. There is nothing V&As doesn’t consider.

This right there. Totally impressed. I've never heard of a restaurant doing that.

If this isn't food porn, there is no such thing.

Totally agree. Everything looks.... impressive.

I am a bit of a coffee and a cheese snob.

Sharon went WAY above and beyond at this point and offered to take my phone to the kitchen and get pictures of all the labels from the 5 selections I would be tasting.

That is going above and beyond.

Here is the presentation of the cheeses; I will spare you from the cheeses' labels.

But... was there one (or more) that you noted the label and want to buy?

Yes, I ate the gold leafing:

Sure. Why not?

Now, I’m gonna be honest. I started to peter out right about the middle of the cheeses. JUST. TOO. MUCH. Too much food. Too much wine. Too full!!!!

Too bad!

This was not good coffee. It was GREAT coffee,

I read the first sentence and thought "Oh, that really sucks! It'd been so great up til then!"

And then.... aaaahhhhh.....

brewed using a method I’ve never seen before. It is prepared using a vacuum method and hard to describe. Best just to see it yourself.

Huh. I have heard of it... but never seen it.

“Liesa, sorry to bother you, but the table of 4 just over there, is asking for the pleasure of your company for coffee and conversation.”.


Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuhhhhh, ok!


“Please tell them I accept.”

Get out! That never happens to me.

“Hello. My name is Something MacLaren. “



“No. Way! My maternal grandmother was full Scotch, and her father was Clan MacLaren. He was from the Highlands and immigrated just before the war.”

“Hello. My name is Something Else MacLeod”.

Okay, now things just get.... bizarre.

My Grandmother's MOTHER was Clan MacLeod. We joked together a lot about the Clan MacLeod’s tartan… “Loud MacLeod”.

What are the odds?!?!?!?

I turned to the first gentleman and he exclaimed (a bit loudly in heavy brogue), “I blimey just invited the family to dinner!”

Now that's funny!

I sat with them at least another hour

Sounds like good company.

and we were the last ones out of the place and probably had the most fun of all the patrons that night.

So you went alone... but wound up with company after all.
Best of all worlds.

All told, it was came to $348.67 including tax and tip and 2 glasses of purchased wine.

Not bad actually. I would've expected worse (as in more.)

And it was TOTALLY worth it. TOTALLY.

Definitely sounds like a life highlight, not just a Disney one.

Normally, each guest would choose their truffles from a cart wheeled tableside, but wisely they chose to let our conversation continue without interruption. Again, attention to detail and impeccable service.

Just when I thought they couldn't get better.

SEE?! I found my monorail home no problem!

Uh, huh.... ".... and Liesa was found the next morning, snoring quietly in the lobby... at the wrong resort."

I can’t recommend this experience enough. It is perfectly magical in every sense and something I will remember forever.

I am so happy this turned out so well for you.

 

[Malia78]

Amazing experience Liesa!