Our original booking was for two concierge level rooms at Disney's Yacht Club. Right before we were getting ready for our trip Disney called us saying that the rooms we had booked will still be under construction. Our options were to move to a concierge deluxe room at the Grand Floridian, concierge room at Polynesian, or a 2 bedroom villa at Boulder Ridge. We were still looking for a more quiet environment for the boys and we selected the Grand Floridian Resort.

We arrived at the Grand Floridian Resort around 8:30 a.m. We valet parked while our friends self parked. We were greeted by a staff member who helped us check in. At this point, I wasn't thrilled. We were booked into a concierge deluxe king bed but my app showed us in a 2 queen mobility room. Come to find out that this resort has less than 20 king bed rooms total! This would have been helpful information when we were switching resorts. My worries weren't necessary though as you'll see later on in this post. 

Our rooms weren't ready yet so we held our luggage, enjoyed some breakfast in the lounge area, and made our way to the Magic Kingdom.  ​

We had reservations for California Grill at 6 pm. When we checked in for dinner we again explained that the kids are autistic, we need to use their stroller, and if we could have a more expedient experience we were met with resistance. The initial response we received is that they weren't sure there was room for the stroller, that the meal usually takes 2 hours, and we were made to feel like it was a completely outrageous request.

Eventually, the boys won the staff over with their adorableness! We were shown to a table with a nice view and ordered our cocktails. For my meal, I ordered the salmon roll with lemon zest, the lamb, and guava sorbet. The salmon roll was nothing special. My lamb was delicious and with the 61-degree egg created a wonderful accompanying sauce. Getting fruit or sorbet is really my pet peeve. I was definitely expecting more from Disney considering they have a lot of newer vegan options. With that being said the sorbet was pretty tasty!  ​

Back at our resort, we stopped in the lounge for a couple glasses of wine and headed out to our balconies for the fireworks. We had views of the water parade, and two firework shows and they were wonderful!

The next morning we enjoyed breakfast in the lounge and made our way to the Animal Kingdom. We weighed out our options of waiting for the bus, taking a Minnie Van (Disney themed ride through Lyft), and driving ourselves. We found the cheapest, fastest, and the most efficient option was driving ourselves and the Handicapped pass that our friends have definitely helped.

Our first stop inside the park was Pandora. Disney outdid themselves with this area in the park. Even though we were 10 minutes late we were stilled allowed to use our fast pass on the Na'vi River Journey. We continued exploring the area before making our way to Africa. 

In Africa, we purchased some snacks. A Mickey pretzel for me, grilled corn for the kids, and water for everyone. Next we used our fast pass for the Kilimanjaro Safari. While the line was short we also appreciated the disability area to park the stroller and be brought back to the same spot once the ride was over. 

We tried to get lunch in Dinoland but the lines were outrageous. Instead of lunch, we walked over to the Boneyard and we're going to take the boys through but the oppressive heat and crowds had us running back to the Grand Floridian and their pool!   ​

Our evening plans included dinner at Jiko inside the Animal Kingdom Lodge. At the check-in desk, we again explained our situation with the boys and asked if we could have a speedier meal. The reaction we received from Jiko was the complete opposite from California Grill. The staff at Jiko were understanding, friendly, and utterly helpful!

Two staff members showed us to our table, brought us tea, and towels for our hands. Our server was not only friendly, understanding of our situation, but also knowledgeable about allergies and food preparation. 

My friend and I ordered drinks that ended up arriving with floating and lit up flowers. My appetizer of  Mauritius Poached Shrimp was fresh, bright and still packed with the bold flavor that I thought I would miss out on by going dairy free. Greg's appetizer of the grilled wild boar tenderloin was very good (ask that man for some adjectives about his dinner and that's what you get lol).

For an entree they only real dairy-free option for me was the filet mignon. The steak was cooked beautifully and the sauce was nice but the dish was over salted. Greg's entree was the Mrouzia-style Moroccan Lamb Shank was impressive and delicious.

For dessert, I quickly jumped on the dairy free coconut milk panna cotta. The dish was very good I just wish I had more time to enjoy it but our time was up and the kids were ready to leave the restaurant. 

After dinner we took the kids over to the playground and let them climb and explore. It was an interesting experience helping a kid climb up a jungle gym while wearing a dress and high heels.

I highly recommend dinner at Jiko and visiting the hotel does make me want to stay there again in the future.  ​

As we were driving into Orlando the sky poured down on us, thunder boomed above us and lightning hit in the distance. 

We were very thankful for the covered valet area of the Hilton Disney Springs. Our friends were a ways away from the hotel so we figured we would get lunch. The hotel restaurant didn't seem too allergen friendly but in the market next door I found a treasure trove of dairy-free delights! I found fruit, sandwiches, coconut jerky, and stroopwafels!

When our friends arrived we headed up to our rooms that were across the way from each other. Our rooms were extra large, offered 2 queen beds, couch, table, desk, large bathroom, and views of the pool area. There were a couple downsides to the resort. The rooms could use an update, the ceiling above our window was leaking, and in our friends room the water coming out of the shower was brown at first and needed to be flushed out. 

We changed our clothes and brought the kids down to the pool to swim for a bit. We were thrilled to see an actual kiddie pool that the kids could stand up in. The boys made a friend and the three of them almost nicely shared water toys.   ​

We made reservations for dinner at Jaleo a few months ago for our anniversary. We walked over from our hotel so we strolled through the shops along the way to dinner. 

We were shown to a table right away. While sitting at a Foosball table is fun, with the kids pulling the handles it can get a bit dangerous lol. We discussed the kids need for a quick meal with our server and thanks to him we were able to order the Jose's Way tasting menu. 

We enjoyed salmon cones, the famous liquid olives, gin and tonic oysters (which we all agreed could have used some more acidity), Iberico de Bellota jamon, bread with tomato, octopus ceviche, the most amazing onion dish ever (seriously it was beyond flavorful), salt potatoes, scallops, paella, garlic shrimp, a beef dish, and then a few desserts. 

The meal was outstanding and we highly recommend the restaurant!

Tomorrow we finally land at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort!  ​

On our way to Savannah GA, we stopped in Florence SC and enjoyed lunch at Wholly Smokin' Downtown. We were able to sit at a nice table outside and our server was so helpful and friendly!

We enjoyed the smoked and fried wings, brisket platter, brisket sandwiches, and burnt ends. The wings were the clear favorite with my brisket platter coming in next. The brisket was tender and I didn't mind the meat being sauced (I usually prefer dry rub only). For sides, I definitely enjoyed the sweet potato fries but my collard greens were on the salty side. 

We continued our drive and arrived at the Hampton Inn Savannah Historic District. Here's where things went awry! I called 3 times prior to checking in (weeks apart) to ensure we had feather free rooms as well as pack and plays. 

When we checked in, our rooms were "ready." We realized only one room was feather free which would have been fine except it was our room that was feather free not the larger room I booked for our friends. When I called down to explain the rooms weren't done correctly Vickie was sent upstairs with only foam pillows. Obviously, this hotel doesn't understand allergies and how things should be handled. Our friends took the smaller room and then realized that instead of pack and plays they were given tiny old baby cribs. The toddler's legs were sticking out of the cribs during the night! Vickie understood our plight and took care of the sticky floor in the bigger room but she doesn't work in housekeeping and was only on call for these situations and was limited in what she could do. 

After accepting that this situation wasn't going to get fixed we brought the kids to the pool on the roof. While swimming we enjoyed great views of the city!

In addition to this, the hotel rooms were really in need of being updated. The furniture was torn, the walls scuffed, and the curtains were dirty. I really don't understand the good reviews on Tripadvisor other than the lobby area being updated and the location I would not stay here again.  ​

After swimming, we walked down to River Street and watched the boats, shopped, and enjoyed a couple of cocktails.

For dinner, we selected the adorable Little Duck Diner. Luckily, we were able to sit outside on this gorgeous night! We ordered cocktails and I loved my Lavender Bubble Bath Bellini. For entrees, we ordered tacos, bi bim bop, and my duck dynasty bowl. Everything was delicious but my friend didn't enjoy the bbq duck egg rolls because there wasn't any mention of curry in it. Our server was kind enough to remove it from our bill. 

Next, we'll be making our way to the Disney Springs area of Orlando FL.  ​

We said our goodbyes to my cousin and made our way to Raleigh where we would stay at the Residence Inn Raleigh Midtown. Our friends were already there and spending time with their family who lived in the area. 

Our room offered 2 queen beds, a bathroom, living room, and small kitchen. While there we used the gym which was very small but met our needs. We also tried the breakfast. Unfortunately, there wasn't anything for me to eat there so we ventured on to Starbucks.

Next up we continue our trip and make it to Savannah GA.   ​

We have only visited Philadelphia for about a 1/2 an hour years ago. It was to purchase cookies inside Reading Terminal Market.

When planning our road trip we all agreed that Philadelphia would be a great first stop. We were two cars, with 4 adults and 2 children on this trip and we were all in need of a getaway!

The morning of day 1 we brought Fred and settled him at my parent's house. We then hopped back in the car and started our journey!

We got an early start than our friends so we got to visit Mothership Gallery and take pictures with Greg's Bunny Jack piece that was in their show last month. We couldn't help ourselves and ended up purchasing a few more vinyl toys (some for Greg to customize and some for our personal collection). To check out Greg's other pieces visit here.

​Our friends were still driving to Philadelphia so we dropped off our luggage at the Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Philadelphia. We walked over to Reading Terminal Market and after walking around a bit we opted for the duck at Sang Kee Peking Duck.

There were two stools available and we ordered a couple of bottles of water, a Peking duck roll, duck with rice and vegetables, and duck with noodles. 

The Peking duck roll was delicious but right when I bit into it juice streamed down my chin and all over my shirt. I smelled like the duck and five spice until I finally got into our hotel room and could change.

Our entrees were both delicious and very good portions. The duck was tender and flavorful in both dishes but the noodle dish was a little strong for my taste. 

After our lunch, we both wanted a cocktail but the Courtyard is under construction and things are very disjointed. We opted to go into the Marriott next door and enjoy a drink in their lobby. 

About the time our friends checked in our rooms were ready. Greg and I were assigned a lovely suite with amazing views. Our room offered an entryway, king bed, couch and table, desk, walk-in shower, and again a great view of the city.  ​

After changing clothes the 6 of us walked towards the Liberty Bell. The children we were traveling with are both toddlers with autism so lines aren't their thing. Of course, there was a line at the Liberty Bell so we kept walking and enjoying the surrounding areas. 

For an afternoon snack, we happened upon Sweet Charlie's! I was thrilled to see rolled ice cream since I've never had it. I was completely willing to take some Lactaid and chance an upset stomach. Then as we began to order the staff asked if we wanted milk, yogurt, or the vegan option. What?? Dairy Free?? Yes!!

I ordered the dairy-free s'mores rolled ice cream with an extra torched marshmallow! The ice cream was pretty good but I will admit it was very sweet. After our ice cream, we visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Continuing on with the sights we walked back north to the LOVE statue. Rather than waiting in line to take a selfie, we took one from afar. 

For dinner, we decided to go casual and try somewhere new! We found our spot- The Bourse! Inside the beautiful and historic building, you will find a variety of restaurants. You can find everything from pancakes to Filipino food!

Greg and I chose the Filipino cuisine at Lalo! I chose the Long Si Log which is pork sausage, garlic rice, and a soft egg. This dish was touched on all taste buds and textures! I thoroughly enjoyed the dish. Greg ordered the Lechon Kawali which is crispy pork belly with garlic rice. I tried a bite of Greg's dish and the pork belly was nicely rendered and actually crispy. Delicious! Before leaving I couldn't help but try the vegan ice cream at Scoop DeVille. The ice cream was creamy, crunchy, and topped with salt. It was amazing!

After dinner, we walked back to our hotel but stopped at the Marriott again for drinks. While inside the lobby, there was a gala upstairs, the fire alarm went off twice, and one of the kids discovered and fell in love with escalators!

This was a great first day! Coming up next is our drive from Philadelphia to Elon University and then on to Raleigh NC.  

Leading up to Easter we had plans for the family from Colorado to visit. After a few flight delays, they finally arrived and we spent their first night in town eating handmade pasta, meatballs, and then pastries from our local bakery.

On Friday morning, we started our day in the North End of Boston. Our first stop was the Old North Church. I was slightly disappointed that it was now a fee to enter rather than just the donation. However, I understand that receiving donations aren't always reliable. Our next stop was the Copp's Hill Burying Ground. Before leaving the area we participated in a quick self-guided tour of Paul Revere's House. 

Time for refreshments! We decided to walk them the over to the oldest restaurant in Boston for oysters and cocktails. The Union Oyster House is a Boston institution. You can sit inside the classic wood bar area or hope to sit in JFK's booth inside the restaurant. 

For lunch, we all split up for a time and purchased lunch inside Quincy Market. I opted for a lobster roll (sans the brioche roll) and a nice cold bottle of water. 

We continued our walking tour and made our way through Government Center and into the Boston Commons and the Public Gardens. I patiently waited and finally snagged a picture of the Make way for Ducklings all dressed up for Easter. 

Our last stop of the day was for my cousin's husband. In our party, we had a big Cheers fan so we headed over for some pictures and gear.   ​

On Easter Sunday we spent time together, baked, and ate a lot of delicious food!

Before flying home on Monday our family had time for more sightseeing. Heading back into Boston we made a stop at Bunker Hill Monument. Our next stop was to the USS Constitution even though it was closed. We were able to take pictures, visit the museum, and check out the gift shop for unique keepsakes. Our last sightseeing stop was at the Boston Tea Party Museum.

Porscha spent the whole weekend requesting food in Chinatown so away we went. After putting our name in at the Gourmet Dumpling House we got out of the rain and ordered some bubble teas from Tea Do. 15 minutes later and we were seated inside the restaurant and ready to over order. We enjoyed soup dumplings, chicken and cabbage dumplings, Szechuan wontons, general gao's chicken, and more. Everything was delicious as usual!  ​

​This was our 4th time visiting Pabu (the previously 3 visits were 2 people selecting the Omakase). We brought out of town guests with us on this occasion and told them how this was one of our favorite restaurants in Boston. We rode up in the elevator together, were greeted right away and shown to our table. Our server Tony welcomed us enthusiastically.

When it was time to order we were going to select 4 Omakase's and 1 a la carte. Tony convinced us to do the luxury price point but have him customize it for us. Tony also convinced us to have our dishes served family style even though I objected.

We received the cheapest items on the menu, multiple dishes arriving together, and then horrible long spaces in between other dishes. For example, the first couple was 1 piece of chicken on a skewer each, and 1 potsticker each. In addition to this, our drink orders were either completely forgotten or had to be requested multiple times. A manager was supposed to come and talk to us but never did.

Finally, Tony restarted our Omakase for us however this left the a la carte guest without food. She was finally offered another selection of food and made it seem that it was complimentary however when we received the bill we were charged for her Edamame and Wagyu Nigiri. $850 dollars and 3 1/2 hours later we left completely disappointed.  This definitely will be our last visit especially considering the new Omakase competition in Boston.  ​

Our main reason for visiting NYC was to visit Mercado Little Spain! We have been fans of Jose Andres, Albert Adria, and Ferran Adria for a long time. We've also been fortunate to dine at The in Miami and most recently Enigma in Barcelona Spain.

When I heard about the opening of Mercado Little Spain I badly wanted to attend but scheduling wouldn't allow it. Finally, we were in line to enter the space. 

The staff welcomed us in with wide smiles and while not every area was open yet our visit was so worth it!

Walking around the space we read the menus, watched the chefs cook, and tried to decide how we were going to control ourselves after our big lunch. 

Our first selections were patatas bravas (potatoes with a spicy sauce and aioli), Iberico de Belotta jamon, and a coca (a flat bread type pizza). After a long wait, we also enjoyed a Vermut each (blanco) along with the most amazing Paella!

Before leaving for the night, we purchased some
churros and chocolate to enjoy back at the hotel after we walked off some of the food!

I can't even begin to tell you how badly I want to visit again and try out their newly opened restaurants as well as some of the kiosks we enjoyed!  ​

The week we were heading to NYC we tried and failed to get a reservation at Kawi by Momofuku. On Saturday, we were double checking and a table opened up for 2 at 12. It was 12 when we reserved it. After a quick call saying we were 10 minutes away, we high tailed it to the restaurant. 

After several blocks, and a couple of levels inside Hudson Yards we found the restaurant entrance. The staff welcomed us, were happy that we made it, and took our coats before showing us to our table.

What happened next can only be called a large bout of over ordering! First up were the fried cod and yuzu. This was the least impressive dish for me. If you're from the Boston area I would compare it to Kelly's Roast Beef's fried fish plate.
​ 
The next couple of dishes were the fluke and then a crab dish. The fluke was light and refreshing while the crab was rich and succulent. 

Our final three dishes were on the heavy side but we couldn't help but want to try them. The grilled short rib kimbap is a solid dish but slightly disappointing in the fact that it wasn't as flavorful as the next two dishes. The Kawibap is for the adventurous palate. Inside the rice is an omelet with candied anchovies. Accompanying the dish is a uni tray and trout roe. The combination is a bite that's also packed with unique flavors. 

Last but certainly not least is the spicy roasted rice cakes with chili jam and country ham. This dish has it all! You have the soft rice cake, the crunch of the toppings, the sweet jam, and the salty ham. I loved this dish!

​I definitely recommend a visit to Kawi and can't wait to return!  ​

Making our way back down through Hudson Yards we came across a few great finds! First was an interactive art installment, next up I fell in love with Atelier Cologne, finally a terrific art installation for photos!

We wandered around New York while making our way to The Pennsy NYC. I have been following The Cinnamon Snail and their amazing vegan goodies on Instagram and just had to visit! These were some of the most delicious vegan sweets we've tried! Highly recommend this restaurant for vegans and non-vegans alike.