An Attitude of Gratitude - A Happy Story

[Radiobarry]

Since I've shared with you about some of the relatively tough times Kathleen and I have been through, I thought I'd share something that I'm grateful for.

For several weeks I'd been planning a day trip to the DLR, 110 miles from our house, on this coming Wednesday - for the purpose of showing Barbaraann and her grandson around my version of baseball heaven, Angel Stadium...and then spending a day with them in the DLR. I wasn't sure at first if Kathleen's schedule would permit her to accompany me. She made sure that it would!

More recently, my disability's had me out of work, and her eye infection has been painful to the point where about all she can do is work...she needs me to drive her because the sunlight when she leaves for her night shift would be too much for her to handle driving.

Anyway, we both had been looking forward to the day - but she decided she wanted to spend Wednesday night at the Grand Californian. No other hotel in the area - just the Grand Californian, or go home that same night. She didn't want to "settle".

My first thought was...no way, either booked up or too expensive. We found a room on line...for well over 400 dollars! Eek! Well, I turned to my friend Tim (Mr Lightyear, the expert from Craig's Travel). Kathleen and I had decided we'd go 275, no higher.

Then, Tim told me that with my annual pass, we could get in for 324. I decided then and there that we, Kathleen in particular, really deserved something fun - so I found a way to come up with the extra money.

Then I called the Disney reservations people and low and behold...thanks to a promotion, I'll be getting that room, for just the one night, for 199 Passholder rate! 210 total! (Two adults, no kids.)Thank you Tim and the Wolfpack for the direction, and while I'm not usually that big on expensive hotels, Kathleen really wanted this...and now she'll have a place to go and lie down if she needs to, and it won't have to be in our car in the parking structure like last time.

Just thought I'd point this out because I'm grateful, I'm really looking forward to exploring this hotel, and we may actually spend some time looking for the good stuff in DCA (She hasn't been yet, and usually thinks mu assessments are suspect to say the least, so chances are you may have another DCA Lovers Alliance member there...)

Anyway, I'm sure that we'll leave the area Thursday having had a much-needed treat.

Sorry for the long post - thanks for letting me share.

BTW...Are the spas in GCH expensive? Worth it? I know the lobby and hearth areas and Storytellers. Thoughts on good spots to explore and photograph?

[tassie]

Awww Barry, that's EXCELLENT news!!! I'm Thrilled for you both!! I cannot WAIT for the trip report!!!
HUGS

[Radiobarry]

^^^ ^^^ ^^^
Thanks, Tassie. We're both really looking forward to it.

[h2opolodad]

Yes, like most good spas at expensive hotels, the spa treatments at the GCH are expensive. However, with what you have saved on the room rate (and that is a GREAT savings for this time of year - I hope you have a terrific time!), you may want to splurge on a massage or a facial or - for the ultimate treat after hours of walking - some sort of foot therapy. Also, take advantage of whatever the GCH will setup for you as far as VIP seatings for the parades and fireworks, as these are truly wonderful perks you can get for staying at the hotel.

[awesomemama]

That's great barry! You deserve it!

[PrincessY]

Great score, barry! DH and I decided to slurge 2 weekends ago with a night at the Grand. $400 gone - poof! But that was a Saturday night. We want to do it again the weekend after Labor Day for our 26th anniversary and go to Napa Rose for the first time. Hubby says he will work on it.

You have fun, now!

[alphabassetgrrl]

Enjoy your stay, Barry! Great score on the room rate.

[Villains Fan]

What a great deal, Barry. If you get the chance, the hotel has a free hour-long tour everyday (I think at 2:00, just ask at the front desk) that will really make you appreciate the hotel even more. I hope you and Kathleen enjoy your stay, it's a beautiful hotel!

[Hakuna Makarla]

wooooooooo hoooooo you both so need this, deserve this, and should have this. this is a wonderful thing, I am so happy for you both!

[JiminyCricketFan]

I am really happy for you. Make sure you take lots of pictures!

[penguinsoda]

Excellent deal!!

You know every so often you just have to go out and treat yourself just because darn it... you deserve it!! I know you will have a wonderful time, and I can't wait to see the pics!!!

[Momzilla59]

It's always great to hear of Good things happening to one of our Mice Chat family!
I hope you all have a wonderful time.

[RenMan]

Dude, I'm jealous, and very happy for you. I'd LOVE to stay there sometime, but I never have cash on hand for pricey hotel stays. Hope you enjoy it. Should be really nice to walk just a few yards to head to your hotel for an afternoon nap or swim!