Thank you for some outstanding advice! Got my ressies for my alternate day and for the day I really wanted. Both times I got right through! When the CM came on this morning she said, "You've done this before, haven't you?" Well yes, but never as successfully!
TupperMom, I asked for the latest possible breakfast and was given 10:20. I'd give yourself an hour from arrival at the parking lot to get to the castle. It is probably overkill, but they ask you to get there 15 minutes early anyway.
As for when to eat, my answer depends on if it is an early entry day or not. If it is, play first, eat late. If not, eat early and be finished by 9am for the rope drop. Good Luck!
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Disnut84!