Who/When/Where:
Who: Sue (54), DVC member
Dates: May 8 13, 2013
Travel Method: Personal car
Resort: Disneys Hilton Head Island Resort
Experience: Very experienced (15th stay at this resort)
INTRODUCTION:
Let me start out by saying quite simply I love Hilton Head!! I especially love it when the weather is warm enough to enjoy the beach, but its not humid or crowded. Memorial Day weekend gets me most of that, but early May will get me the whole package! Weather is expected to be sunny and 77 degrees each day how perfect is that???? My winter trips here are nice, but being here when its 50-60 degrees is not nearly as nice/comfortable as when its in the mid-upper 70s. Once it gets into the mid-80s you can keep Hilton Head Id rather stay home (especially since those warmer temps means big crowds).
I booked this trip as a 6-night stay in a studio, figuring my friend Linda would fly down for the last few nights. I soon changed that to a 1-bedroom villa, since that way wed have separate sleeping rooms and more space overall. I really prefer my space, and thats not possible with someone sleeping on a sleep sofa next to my bed! I later dropped the first night, realizing that 5 nights was plenty, given my other trips this year.
Lindas life is never boring, and she was unemployed & in school, then employed, then unemployed, and only recently became employed again. She also had a Vegas trip with a bunch of high school girlfriends, which I think ended about a week before this trip. Needless to say, it doesnt take a rocket scientist to figure out that taking off AGAIN as a new employee would not be terribly smart. Plus, we have the Disney Dream cruise booked in early November (which lately resulted in a post by her that leads me to think that might be at risk for her, not me) so she backed out of this trip in favor of doing the cruise. As recent as this morning she was hinting (on facebook) that she could check flights and fly down after work Friday, but I decided to ignore that. Im really not wanting to end the trip with a late night attempt to find the airport in the dark, at an hour when Id prefer to be in bed and then have to disrupt the final day of the trip to get her back to the airport. Plus shed only really have 24-48 hours at most here, so its better to wait until next year & plan for it more appropriately.
So, that left my husband SB as the logical travel companion. He loves Hilton Head too, and loves it in the warm weather. He also loves the restaurants, lol. We were here for a long weekend in January with my son & his girlfriend, and SB is eager to come on this trip. However, SB has been unemployed for quite some time, and has not been able to get back into a baseball job. Hes at the point where ANY job is ok, and he is pending for a temp job in security where I work. We thought hed be working by now, but things seem to move at the pace of a paraplegic snail missing a wheelchair. In any event, the next batch of new hires will start Friday. If he has an offer letter hell stay home and start orientation & go to work. If he doesnt have an offer letter in time hes inclined to say F this and come along with me. Id love for him to come on the trip, but the practical side says work is more important and he cant mess that up. So, well see Im typing this Sunday so we have 2 days for things to fall into place one way or the other. Update he did get hired, and starts Friday. He also interviewed today for a permanent position in the same department, so chances are good by the time he finishes the new employee orientation hell be starting in the permanent position. Hes excited, and Im happy for him!
As for plans, Im going on the assumption (ever the optimist) that SB will be in Gainesville for JOB reasons, lol! I dont mind a solo trip at all, although having a 1-bedroom villa for just me seems a bit much. I do prefer to make breakfast at home, so itll be nice having the full kitchen rather than the kitchenette, but had I known 11 months ago this would be a solo trip I wouldnt have wasted the extra points on a 1-bedroom. By the time I realized Linda was likely not going to be here it was too late to get all 5 nights in a studio, and I wasnt willing to do a split stay and change rooms during the trip!
I havent made any specific plans at this point, other than having dinner with a friend Wednesday night. The weather looks great every day (low in the upper 60s, which is a bit warmer than I need, and highs of 77) but the greatest chance for clouds/showers is my final full day on Sunday. Thats also Mothers Day, so Im not sure of the impact on restaurants. They will probably be busier than normal but of greater concern would be the possibility of them doing a special brunch or something rather than the regular menu. Ill try to work around that, or just keep Sunday as a day for a casual meal out rather than any place important to me.
General plans include going for a run through Shelter Cove Harbour each early morning, and then time on the beach. Im bringing a beach umbrella in case I want some shade, and will use the tool the lifeguards have to get the darn thing into the sand. Im assuming life guards are working now, but if not the umbrella will stay in my trunk. Im having a basal cell skin cancer removed from my arm the Friday after I get back, so on one hand I should be careful in the sun but on the other hand after 2 rounds of breast cancer basal cell is like having a sniffle <g>. Its easily fixed and isnt invasive. I do have sunscreen packed, but I dont plan to remain pasty white.
I have a number of favorite restaurants on the island, most in the Serg group, so I will eat out once a day. For sure Ill get to Wise Guys and Frankie Bones at least once, and Dottie & I will probably end up at Skull Creek Boathouse Wednesday night. I might also hit Black Marlin, and might try Parrot Cove Grill since its so close to the resort. In only 5 nights its impossible to do everything. Ill probably bring some crackers & cheese, and of course wine, and since Ill have a large porch I always have the option of enjoying the evenings out there. I have many books downloaded on my kindle, so hopefully Ill get to do lots of reading as well. Overall, Im looking for a nice relaxing trip in beautiful surroundings with fabulous weather!
The plans so far are:
Wednesday 5/8: Work, Drive to Hilton Head, dinner w/Dottie
Thursday 5/9: Beach, Eat Out
Friday 5/10: Beach, Eat Out
Saturday 5/11: Beach, Eat Out
Sunday 5/12: Beach, Eat Out
Monday 5/13: Drive to Gainesville
DAY 1 Wednesday 5/8/13
Who: Sue (54), DVC member
Plan: Work, Drive to Hilton Head, dinner w/Dottie
Actual: Yesterday around noon as I was walking to a golf cart at work I sort of fell off my left shoe, bending my ankle. It hurt for a little while, then was fine I even did my usual walk around 3-4 hours later, without any problem. After work we went out to dinner, and walking back to the car afterwards I noticed the ankle was a bit tender. At home it got more tender, and I could tell it was swelling a bit (on the outside, just behind the bony part). Thanks to the internet, I diagnosed a sprained ankle and began with the rest, ice and some attempt at elevation. It means most likely there wont be any jogging through Shelter Cove Harbour each morning, and Im hoping I wont have much trouble getting across the beach.
Fortunately this morning the ankle felt much better, so sleeping with it elevated must have helped. I went to work for the morning, and left right at noon. I was already packed, so SB put my suitcase in the trunk and I began the boring drive. Traffic and road conditions were good, but it took 4.5 hours to get here. I swear I hit every traffic light except one, and there are a LOT of them between I-95 and the resort! I parked under the building and went upstairs to check in. The front desk people were helping someone so a cast member at the desk in the lobby got my check-in packet and once she learned it wasnt my first visit she spared me the long explanations of everything.
My villa was ready, and was in my preferred location. Im in Live Oak Lodge, top floor, with a view of the marsh and the canal. Last May Linda & I were 1 flight down but in the studio. The porch is nice & long, but its not one thats extra deep. The villa itself looks great full kitchen, living room, small dining area, master bedroom, and 2-room master bathroom. The laundry room is off what I guess could be called the mud room, with a bench and hooks for hanging your coats. Its more than enough room for me, lol and is almost perfect for 2 people (to be perfect there would need to be a 2nd full bathroom).
I unpacked and then walked over to the Mercantile to see Dottie. Im walking and climbing stairs just fine, but going down stairs the ankle is a little tender. The internet said when I can hop on the injured leg with no pain then its safe to jog Im probably not there yet. The weather is beautiful here (low 80s) and expected to be nice all week. Last weekend it was awful, so its nice to get lucky this time! Dottie & I chatted for a while and finalized our dinner plans, then I headed back to the villa.
Although I have my breakfast food and crackers/cheese from home, I drove over to Piggly Wiggly to see if anything else caught my eye. The road behind the mall is officially closed (and is being moved), and its not possible to drive through the front parking lot all the way either. The shell of the Kroger has started to go up, but otherwise its just a big construction mess down there. To get to Piggly Wiggly I had to go out to the main road. Nothing in there looked like anything I needed to buy, so I returned my basket and headed back to the resort.
Contestant Candice on American Idol is from around here evidently, as the local news was showing clips from her home visit and concert. Theyve set up a local drive-in movie theater to show Idol tonight. I think its free, and would be fun if I wasnt solo and had no plans for the evening. I updated the report and caught the local and national news before heading out just before 7 to pick up Dottie.
Wed decided on Skull Creek Boathouse, which is always good. Actually, Dottie was agreeable to eating anywhere, and it was me who kept waffling between places before finally settling on the first place Id suggested (Skull Creek). This place can get really crazy, so I was hoping that being a Wednesday night and it not being tourist season yet maybe we wouldnt have too long of a wait.
I talked to SB on the short drive to Dotties, and I found her waiting outside for me (hungry, lol). We made the drive to Skull Creek Boathouse and the parking area was pretty full. We checked in inside and learned it the wait for first available was currently 45 minutes to an hour. So much for off-season, lol! There were 2 seats free at the bar, but they were not together. No problem one of the seats had extra space so we moved the 2nd one over there and had a perfect spot. The bartender was attentive, and we ordered drinks but also decided to just have dinner there at the bar rather than wait up to an hour for a table.
I wanted a glass of pinot grigio but there were several to choose from. The bartender mentioned they have a feature pinot grigio and offered me a taste. It was good, but not fabulous. I asked about the price and it was $8.50 not worth it to me, so I stuck with a mid-range version for $6.50 that I actually liked better. Dottie ordered something that looked like beer, but not ordinary beer (sorry Im no help here).
For dinner I had the petite version of their Cajun chicken pasta, which I know is excellent. Dottie went with a grouper entre that was on the today menu. We both enjoyed our meals and both took half home for another day. We settled the check and were out of there by 8:30, which is probably about when we would have been seated if we hadnt chosen to eat at the bar!
I dropped her off at home and was back at the resort just before 9, which was just in time for General Hospital on SoapNet. Im taping Idol at home, so I guess I can watch parts of that on Monday. I finished up the report, spending time in my living room before later retiring to the bedroom for some HGTV before going to sleep. Since I have the whole 1-bedroom villa to myself I want to make sure I dont waste the space, lol!
Today felt like a really short day since I didnt get here until 4:30 in the afternoon. It was great catching up with Dottie and dinner was fabulous as usual. Its a shame shes leaving town, as it would have been fun to hang out some this weekend. Tomorrow the real trip begins, when I have a full 24 hours to enjoy Hilton Head each day. I plan to get up when I wake up, and pretty much play things by ear. At some point this trip Ill head over to Belk at the former mall, and since they have musical entertainment at Shelter Cove Harbour at night I might go have a drink over there some night (sitting at an outside bar). I plan to go to the beach tomorrow morning at some point, but Im not sure where or when Ill eat out tomorrow late lunch or early dinner. Its nice to have the luxury of time to spend however I please!
DAY 2 Thursday 5/9/13
Who: Sue (54), DVC member
Plan: Beach, Eat Out
Actual: I slept really well last night! The elevator is just on the other side of my bedroom wall and I can hear it when its operating, but its not as annoying (or frequent) as the room we had at Beach Club Villas once before! Plus, with this being a small resort and there only being a small # of rooms served by the elevator, its not in use constantly. I woke up at 6:15 to a beautiful orange sky above the buildings across the water.
Around 6:30 I got up and discovered my toothbrush barely worked, so perhaps the on switch got hit while it was in my bag. Fortunately I brought the charging cord so hopefully thats the only problem. I watched some morning news and brought the computer into the bedroom. The signal strength is pitiful anywhere from 1 to 3 bars. I was unable to access our payroll system through AOL, IE or Firefox, which is aggravating. Today is the end of the pay period so I not only need to submit my time I need to approve my staffs time & also approve other actions. I wonder if its the lack of a secure connection here although its never been a problem before.
SB called when he got up, and I moved out to the living room around 7:30. Breakfast was an egg, piece of bacon, and cappuccino. Its nice not having to make do with just a microwave, lol! Its beautiful outside sunny, blue sky, and warm (but not hot). Shortly after 9 I drove over to the beach house, leaving the car parked underneath the building (with my stuff in the trunk) while I went for a walk on the beach.
It was a great morning for walking on the beach warm but not hot, breezy but not windy, and not crowded at all. The tide was going out so I walked on the nice hard sand. The water was too cold for my taste, so I quickly retreated to the damp sand! The water looked clear to be no seaweed or sea creatures along the edge. I saw a total of 2 jellyfish along the sand, but that was over a pretty good distance. Theyd obviously had some beach erosion from the winter or spring storms, as there was a significant drop-off on the beach where the soft sand meets the hard sand. In some places it was knee-high and other places it was higher.
I got back to the resort shortly after 10 and went to the car to get my chairs and beach bag. I set up camp fairly close to the water, since the tide was still going out. It was wonderful out there, except for the occasional crying kid. Why is there always a kid crying these days?? I honestly dont recall Chris doing that on trips, and he traveled starting at 4 weeks of age.
At one point some lady (guest with really ugly tattoos) from the resort dug up a huge horseshoe crab that was buried in the sand. She claimed it was dead, and left it there. Well, hello idiot it wasnt dead. But, now that shed dug it up and it was laying on top of the sand far from the water it most certainly would be dead in time. Luckily the beach patrol guy driving by noticed it and stopped his truck. He picked it up and carried it down to the water and brought it out to the sandbar nearby, to the delight of a few kids who got a close-up view and private lesson from the patrol guy. He released the crab onto the sand bar, so it could survive. It was huge more than 12 inches across. Dumbass lady assumed he was dead because he didnt move, but I guess he was just scared or trying to act like a rock <g>.
While on the beach I dealt with some work stuff, read a couple magazines and then started a short book on the kindle. This was a recent freebie, written by the dad of a boy with autism about the remarkable effect Disney and WDW had on his son. It was very interesting, and seemed an appropriate choice while vacationing at a Disney resort! Around 1:15 I decided Id been out long enough and packed up my stuff. Its really nice I was able to walk barefoot all the way to the parking garage. By late May the sand and the blue walkway would have burned the soles of my feet!
Before going back to the resort I took a detour to a Harris Teeter to look for something sweet for the fridge and a toothbrush in case mine is really broken. Traffic was backed up a bit at the circle, but nothing like itll be in a few weeks, lol! At Harris Teeter I bought a cheap toothbrush and got some drops for dry eyes, then headed to the bakery. I was in the mood for a brownie, but there were none. Their donuts looked good, but Im not really donut person. Finally I asked an employee for a recommendation and she sort of moaned (with pleasure) and said red velvet cake! She said thats the only cake her husband & son ask her to bring home, so I bought a slice of that.
From there I went back to the resort and put the cake in the fridge. I ate a handful of tortilla chips and then took my shower. The water pressure in the shower is very strong I expected to see chunks of skin missing when I got out, lol! It felt great, though. Once Id dried my hair and gotten dressed I made a couple work calls, then checked the Frankie Bones menus online.
It was just after 3 so I knew I could time it for either the early bird or regular dinner menu starting at 4 or the lunch menu up until 4. I decided on the lunch menu figuring those portions would be the smallest and I really didnt want to accumulate a fridge full of leftovers. I drove over there and as expected it wasnt busy at 3:30. I was interested in eating outside but asked whether smoking was allowed out there. They explained that it IS allowed in the outside area out front to the left but not allowed along the side to the right of the building. Perfect I chose the side. The only other people out there were 3 young men, and theyve added a tv to the wall. The guys asked for the channel to be changed to the golf channel, which SB would have enjoyed. I just continued reading on the kindle <g>.
For lunch I had a glass of the house pinot grigio and the schwein schnitzel (thin breaded pork) with herb spatzle and red cabbage (did not touch the cabbage). Just after it was delivered I smelled smoke, and saw one of the guys had a cigarette. A manager stopped by to check on my meal and I mentioned the cigarette she immediately took care of it. The guys were very nice about it they simply didnt know. She suggested he could just step over to the other area to smoke, but he said hed just put it out & wait until later.
My food was good, and there was plenty of it! I chose not to take the rest of it back with me. I also had their quarter slice of carrot cake ($2), which was good but doesnt match Publixs carrot cake. By showing my room key I received a 10% discount on the food for being a Disney guest, too.
I drove back to the resort and found a note under my door saying that tomorrow the pest control company would need to get into my villa to do their monthly service. They start at 9, so Ill be ready to head out by then most likely. I walked along the marina on the resort side and went to the Mercantile to see Dottie for a bit. While there Joe called and she handed me the phone, so I got to talk with him too! I forgot to ask them when theyll be at Food & Wine, to see if our dates match up.
Eventually I headed back to the room to drop off something Id bought in the shop, and updated the trip report while half-watching the early news. Around 6 I went back outside and walked over to Shelter Cove Harbour. Musicians were performing outside Scotts and San Miguels as usual, but also each Thursday night they have a concert in the center area near the King Neptune statue. Tonight it was a reggae band, and quite a few people were there enjoying the music. There were chairs available for people to use, although several sat on walls or in rocking chairs near the shops. A couple of the restaurants had booths set up to sell food and drinks, too. I listened to the music for a short while, then continued wandering around. While I was there I stopped at Parrot Cove Caf and learned they will not be open on Sunday (they are only open 7 days a week during season, which starts Memorial Day weekend). I was thinking of having lunch there Sunday, so Im glad I checked! It will have to be Friday or Saturday instead.
I walked to the end of the walkway/dock and then turned around to go back. If SB was here we probably would have stopped for a drink at the bar outside Scotts, but it isnt the same as a solo. Instead, I made my way back over the bridge to the resort and decided to have a glass of wine out on my porch! It was beautiful out there I brought my jacket out but didnt need it. I set one of the rocking chairs next to the picnic table, so I had the wine at a good height. I finished the book on the kindle, then played some games on it until it was time to go inside for American Idol. I actually hated leaving the porch it was that nice out there! I love having the view of the water, too.
At this point Im in for the night after Idol itll be General Hospital on SoapNet, then a little HGTV before bed. I cant believe how quickly today went by I wish time would slow down!! It was a beautiful day, and Im really loving being here. Tomorrow will be more of the same perhaps with a morning jog since the ankle feels 100% now.
DAY 3 Friday 5/10/13
Who: Sue (54), DVC member
Plan: Beach, Eat Out
Actual: This morning I woke up just after 6, to another pretty orange sky. I debated my options and a few minutes later got up and dressed for jogging. It was somewhat humid outside but pretty comfortable. I walked over the bridge and then jogged along the water at Shelter Cove Harbour. The ankle felt perfectly normal, so I no longer have an excuse to be lazy (bummer, lol). Its so pretty out here early in the morning the water is still, lights are reflecting, and I only encountered 1 other jogger and a few birds.
Once I was back at the villa I caught the local news and the weather looks beautiful again today repeat of yesterday! They are talking about clouds and possible rain later on Saturday through Sunday morning, so well see how that goes. At 7 I made breakfast, and I talked to SB briefly before he went to work. At 9 I drove over to the Beach House and repeated what I did yesterday.
Today I walked in the other direction, past the beautiful large ocean-front homes I will never own! I walked quickly for about an hour, and saw several more jellyfish today (perhaps a dozen or so, but along a stretch of about 1.5 or so miles). There were also some dolphin swimming along just offshore. I was more tolerant of the water temperature today, and walked in the very edge of the water part of the way. When I got back to the resort I gathered my chairs and bag from the trunk of the car and set up camp on the beach.
I dont normally use the word glorious in everyday conversation, but that word fits perfectly in describing how it was out there on the beach today! There wasnt a cloud in the sky, there were no repeatedly crying little kids, it was warm enough to feel warm but the breeze was cool enough that I never glistened with sweat! It couldnt have been more perfect! When SB called at the start of his lunch break he could hear the breeze hitting the microphone on the cell phone, and he wished he was on the beach too. Many years from now when we move back to Ft Myers well have plenty of beach time!
As the tide would go out Id get up and move my chairs closer to the water this prevents other people from arriving and setting up their chairs in front of me. Im here to see the waves not the back of chairs and sitting butts! The beach was fairly busy, but not at all crowded like itll be in a couple weeks. Finally a little after 1pm I dragged myself away, but it was tough leaving. Even though I was using 30 spf sunscreen and had reapplied I didnt want to overdo it since I was much paler than normal when I got here.
I drove back to the villa and noticed one of the doors to the master bathroom was in a different position so I took that to mean the pest control people had already come through. Thats good, because now that Im back I dont plan to let anyone in for a while. I put out the privacy sign and bolted the door, just in case. Tonight Ill have dinner at Wise Guys but since I was hungry now (Id brought some tortilla chips to the beach but those dont satisfy for long) I started the water running in the big Jacuzzi tub while I prepared some crackers and cheese for a snack. Once the water was high enough I took the food and a glass of wine into the master bathroom and had a nice soak in the jetted tub rather than taking a boring shower.
I was dressed and blow-dried by 3, so I went downstairs for a cranberry walnut cookie (theyre bigger now, but taste the same), then returned to the villa to hang out online. Eventually I took the computer out onto the porch and enjoyed the beautiful afternoon and view. I know Im being redundant, but it is so beautiful here right now perfect weather, gorgeous surroundings its almost unbelievable. At 5 I put the computer inside and drove over to Wise Guys for an early dinner. On the way there I discovered my radio or speakers are no longer working grrr. I also spoke with SB, whod finished his first day of new employee orientation.
I like the bar area here at Wise Guys and expected to eat at the bar but the air conditioning was such a contrast to the outside temp Id gotten used to I chose to eat outside once I verified that no smoking was allowed. Service was excellent, and although I was the only person out there at first eventually a couple other tables filled up. During happy hour (or early dining) its 25% off the entire check, which is a really good deal. As a Disney resort guest I get 10% off, but 25% is better.
I had a glass of their house pinot grigio (Mezzacorona), and struggled with the food choice. I might have to come back Sunday night, lol! I started with the petite version of the Wise Guys Salad, which has cranberries, candied walnuts, gorgonzola, fuji apples, and lettuce. Its excellent, and was a great choice (Ive had it before)! I also ordered the filet mignon sliders (2), which were very good but not something Id order again. Now that Ive tried them, I can get something else. They were served with gorgonzola cheese on top and some homemade potato chips. Last time I was here with SB I tried the short rib sliders and I think those were better (and $8 instead of $12). Im glad I tried them, though and wasnt disappointed. I didnt bother with most of the chips, but ate all of the filet mignon. I checked the dessert menu and although they have a number of great items I knew as a solo they were all more than I wanted. Damn, if SB or Linda was here I would have loved the chocolate lava cake <g>. But, since I was solo I passed on dessert (plus I had that red velvet cake slice in the fridge). With the 25% discount the check was barely over $20!
After dinner I drove back (in silence) to the resort and parked the car under the lodge before walking over the bridge to Kingfisher. Id been reading a book on the kindle while on the beach and at Wise Guys and figured I might as well sit outside there if happy hour was good outside, as opposed to sitting hidden away on my porch. I found out happy hour is both inside and out front, so I chose one of the 2 empty tables out there. The server was a cute young girl living with her grandmother and working here for the summer before starting college in another state. She was very nice, and a hard worker. Most people out there ordered food/dinner, but I explained Id already eaten. I ordered a glass of their house pinot grigio and read my kindle.
At one point this gigantic cat passed through the area my sons cat Smokey is big, but this cat was even bigger! It was really pleasant out there perfect weather, pretty surroundings, etc. Eventually I started talking to the couple at the next table, and enjoyed meeting them. They live in Pittsburg (hey Donna!) and had just spent a week in Palmetto Dunes and were moving to Sea Pines tomorrow. They come here for the warm weather, while I came here for the cooler weather <g>. Theyve spent time in Ft Myers, so we talked about that too. After they left the server came by to say last call, so I ordered another glass of wine since the last one was pretty watered down by the ice Id been adding. I ended up leaving part of both glasses, but since it was happy hour the 2 glasses were only $6 plus tax & tip!
The cat came wandering through again and I called out to him/her. To my surprise, he/she came over and laid next to my chair so I could pet him/her for a while. Eventually he/she went to go sit on the wall, and I left around 8:45 so I could be home in time for General Hospital at 9. Ive not heard good reviews about Kingfisher, but the guests eating tonight seemed to enjoy what they had, and you cannot beat the convenience of walking home in less than 5 minutes! Now Im in for the night, watching General Hospital and getting ready to eat part of the red velvet cake slice before it gets too much older.
Today was a fabulous, ideal kind of day!! This is exactly what a vacation should be like, and this time of year is the perfect time for me to visit Hilton Head. Its not too hot, and not too cool (or cold). I am loving every minute, and look forward to coming back this time next year!
Tomorrow clouds and showers are expected by afternoon, and should continue into Sunday. Hopefully at least the morning will be nice for the beach!
DAY 4 Saturday 5/11/13
Who: Sue (54), DVC member
Plan: Beach, Eat Out
Actual: This morning I woke up a little later (around 6:30) and got up even later than that (around 6:45). I decided to skip the jogging today, since its later, warmer & more humid than it was yesterday. Im sure laziness had no part in the decision, lol! I made the usual breakfast and did my usual morning stuff in the villa. Just before 9 I drove over to the Beach House and parked in the usual spot.
Today I walked in the same direction as yesterday, but went a little further down the beach. Once again dolphin were swimming offshore. It was windier than yesterday, and quite a bit cloudier. By the time I got back to the Beach House and retrieved my chairs the sun was ready to disappear for a while.
Without the sun it was pretty cool out there the lifeguard put on her long pants and long-sleeve shirt! I was mostly ok, but eventually did use my cover-up. After about an hour the clouds had moved away and it was a bright sunny morning better than I expected after the cloudy start! It was another glorious morning on the beach, and once again it was comfortably warm but not sweating weather. SB called as I was getting ready to head back hed shopped and done all the prep work to make his fabulous tacos. He seems to be really enjoying having the house to himself, lol I dont mind coming back here more often if it makes him happy <g>.
I drove back to the resort and my Trash & Towel service had not been done yet. I put out the privacy sign and took my shower, and just before 2 walked over to Shelter Cove Harbour for lunch at Parrot Cove Grill. It was a beautiful warm sunny Saturday afternoon yet hardly anyone was over there. A handful of people were having lunch at Scotts and even fewer at Bistro 17. I only saw a couple parties out shopping, too.
I checked in at Parrot Cove and was told to sit anywhere. The inside of this place smells like French fry grease, so I would never come over here and eat inside. I chose a table outside in the shade. There was a table nearby finishing up and a family of 4 arrived just as I did, and took a table at the other end. While I was there more people came, but it was never busy.
I knew exactly what I wanted their crepes menu. For $8.95 you get any 2 crepes and either a salad or fruit. I had a glass of ice water and chose the 2 fruit crepes, along with fruit. The other crepes were entre food, which didnt appeal to me. One crepe had strawberries, pineapple & banana with hazelnut butter and the other was banana, crme cheese & almonds. Both were good in the sense they were something different from the usual lunch stuff (for me at least), but they werent great enough that I need to return here next year. Im glad I tried them, but that was enough for me.
After lunch I walked back over to the resort, dropped off my camera & kindle, then drove over to Belk at the Mall. I scored with a petite maxi dress at 75% off cant beat a bargain! That was the only thing that caught my eye, so I was back at the resort before 4. I stopped in Big Murgies Den and played a game of pool by myself, then grabbed a cranberry walnut cookie, got the new internet code (it changes midnight each Saturday) and headed up to the villa. My Trash & Towel service had been completed, and I had nothing left on the agenda but to kick back and enjoy my villa.
I downloaded the latest batch of photos and updated the report, then captioned the photos. I had a bit of a scare when Id captioned almost all of them and it looked like I was going to lose everything Id done! Fortunately I only lost about 10 or so captions, so I redid those. By then it was almost 5pm so I decided to take a walk around the resort before settling in for the evening. It still hadnt rained, but the sky was getting more overcast and the breeze felt humid.
While walking I took several more photos, and then downloaded/uploaded/captioned them after returning to the villa. The resort is so beautiful and so peaceful its impossible to express with words how much I love it here, especially this time of year. I had a great time in January, but the colder temperatures really do make it less attractive/appealing. In January it was all about the company I was with, and the restaurants. I couldnt sit outside on the porch in a sundress in January, and certainly couldnt wear a swimsuit on the beach!
Back at the villa I brought the computer out to the picnic table on the porch (theres an electrical outlet out there). I noticed my porch is longer than most. Mine extends from the bedroom window past the bedroom door, living room window, living room door and dining window. In most other buildings the porch goes from the bedroom door to living room door, so the windows on either side are not part of the porch area. My porch only has a roof over that area, leaving the section in front of the bedroom and dining windows uncovered. I think my porch is best, lol I have sun AND shade, and more space!
I poured some wine and caught up with emails and the trip report. Its so peaceful out there, with a slight breeze, music from the guitar player at Scotts Fish Market in Shelter Cove Harbour, and looking out all I see is water through my porch railing. I LOVE LOVE LOVE being here! I cant wait for next month, when I can book next years trip here!
Besides the sheer joy of being here, this morning I had an email from someone Ive never met who saw the Disney hard eyeglass case at the Premium Outlets and was offering to go back and pick one or more up for me! It turned out to be the exact one Id been looking for the one my friend Lori B has. Best of all, its marked down to $4.99 (from $16.95). This very nice person went back there today and got 2 for me, so I will have one for myself and one for a gift. Shes probably reading so Thank You again! Disney people are the best!
Just before 7 I reheated some of the leftover Cajun chicken pasta from Skull Creek and brought that out to the porch. The pasta was so good I heated up the rest of it and finished it off Im not sure why I left Skull Creek off my must do list but Im glad Dottie & I got there! I ende up staying out on the porch reading until after dark, then moved back inside.
Today was yet another terrific day here! I know Im being redundant, but its just so wonderful here, and Ive been loving every minute. Tomorrow is my last full day, and hopefully the weather will turn out to be nice. After that Ive got a year to wait to be back here again, but it will be worth the wait!
DAY 5 Sunday 5/12/13
Who: Sue (54), DVC member
Plan: Beach, Eat Out
Actual: I slept well again last night, waking up briefly at 4:30 but falling back asleep. When I woke up again I was concerned because there wasnt any sunrise color out there, but it was only 6:18. There were clouds but also patches of clear sky, so it looked better than forecast. I got up and dressed, then went for my jog around Shelter Cove Harbour and the resort.
After I returned to the villa the sun began shining, and when I checked the hourly weather I was pleased to see only a 10% chance of rain and thats not until this afternoon! I made the usual breakfast, and hung out in the villa for a while. Just before 9 I drove over to the Beach House and walked on the beach for an hour. It felt warmer today, but I think it was just because the breeze was lighter. More people were out walking, too most likely it was the new batch of Saturday-to-Saturday timeshare guests.
When I returned to the Beach House I got my chairs and set up camp near the waters edge. It was another gorgeous day out there! I finished another book on the kindle and enjoyed my last morning on the beach. Technically I could spend the morning here tomorrow, but I want to get home early, so today is my final chance. I was happy to receive Happy Mothers Day calls from my sons dad, my son, and my husband who relayed the same message from my stepdaughter, so it was a nice day. Chris was very jealous to learn where I was <g>. Around 1 I put my stuff back in the trunk and walked up to the Beach House to take a couple pictures. It was so hard and sad walking back downstairs and to my car, knowing I wouldnt be back for another year. Im thankful to be coming back, but still sad to be leaving.
I drove back to the resort and washed my swimsuit, then hung it on the 2 rocking chairs out on the porch so I could pack it later. Since its Mothers Day I didnt want to deal with busier than normal restaurants (or alternative menus), so I browsed through the book of menus and decided to just return to Kingfisher after 5. I know that place gets hit or miss (more miss than hit) reviews, but the convenience of walking over there and sitting outside with happy hour priced wine was too appealing <g>. They have chicken picatta on the menu, so thats what Ill order. I also noticed they have a fried whiting (one of SBs favorite fish) that comes with cheese grits and collard greens boy does that sound perfect for him!
I had a small plate of crackers & cheese to tide me over until dinner, and caught up with email and the trip report. From there I went out to the porch and spent a wonderful and relaxing couple of hours. Its so peaceful & quiet out there, and this time of year the breeze is just beautiful (not humid). Around 5:15 or so I brought my stuff inside and walked over to Kingfisher.
I wasnt in any rush, and had my kindle with me, so I took a table outside and ordered a glass of pinot grigio figuring Id order dinner around 6. It wasnt too busy and I had a nice table out of the direct sun. The breeze kept things really comfortable, and once again I made sure I picked a table with chairs that rocked. I had a glass of wine and read my kindle, and ended up not ordering dinner until closer to 6:30. I had the chicken picatta, which was very good but not outstanding. I left quite a bit of it, choosing not to take the leftovers since I was leaving in the morning.
After dinner I walked along the marina at Shelter Cove Harbour, enjoying the beautiful evening & weather. This week has been absolute perfection in terms of weather, and Im so glad I moved my trip earlier this year! Ill never come later than this again! After my walk I went back to the villa, getting there about 8pm. I checked my receipts and on this 5-night trip I ate very well and spent just over $110. Cant beat that! It certainly helps having a full kitchen but I would have done breakfast in the room even if Id just booked a studio.
I uploaded todays photos and finished captioning the album. Its on shutterfly at
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/w...ZNGTdm2bMWjGIA
If the link doesnt work, copy/paste the following: http://share.shutterfly.com/action/w...ZNGTdm2bMWjGIA
Today was another glorious day marred only by my sadness at having to leave tomorrow. Tomorrows report will likely be very short, but Ill wrap it all up then.
DAY 6 Monday 5/13/13
Who: Sue (54), DVC member
Plan: Drive to Gainesville
Actual: This morning I woke just after 6, and was out jogging by 6:20. It was cooler than previous days, and I learned later the high for today would be mid-70s. That sounds pretty darn good! Unfortunately Im headed back to Florida, where it will feel much warmer than that.
I made one last breakfast in the villa and puttered around a while, then finally packed up the rest of my stuff and was on the road around 8:30. I hate the drive but the trip was worth it! I pulled into the garage at home by 12:45.
I know Ive said this repeatedly over the past 6 days, but everything about this trip was sheer perfection! My room location was terrific, and even the bit of elevator noise didnt bother me. What bothers me are screaming/running kids or adults who are overly loud, and I had none of that in this room. My villa was convenient to getting a delicious cranberry walnut cookie each day, too! I also love parking under the building no hot car to get into! Having a 1-bedroom instead of a studio was a big plus as well, as I really enjoyed the extra space. When I took the computer out to the porch I had a picnic table to set it on, I was able to fry my egg in a pan on a stove rather than in a microwave, and I enjoyed the whirlpool tub. I would do a studio here again if I was certain it would be a solo trip, but as long as there might be someone joining me Ill stick with the 1-bedroom.
The weather was PERFECT this trip! I had hoped by moving my trip up 2-3 weeks that would be enough to make a difference, and it was. Memorial Day weekend was just getting too hot, and after Memorial Day would be both too hot and too crowded. Evenings got into the low 70s, overnight was upper 60s and daytime temps were low 80s with low humidity and a beautiful breeze. It does not get any better than that!
My dining was mostly excellent. Skull Creek Boathouse and Frankie Bones continue to be favorites, and it was good getting back to Wise Guys as well. I was less impressed with Parrot Cove Grill. Kingfisher has a great happy hour, but the food & menu arent up there on par with Skull Creek or Frankie Bones or Wise Guys.
So, as this fabulous trip comes to an end I can only dream about next years Hilton Head trip only 51 weeks away now, lol! My next dvc trip begins May 24th, at Jambo House for Memorial Day weekend. Once again at this point Im not sure if Ill be solo or if SB will able to join me for part of the trip, but well have it figured out by then.
↧
Sue Holland Rayford - Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort, May 8-13, 2013
↧