May 11th 2008 ~ Any Double Dippers Out There? [Archive] - Page 5 - The DIS Discussion Forums

Tarabra

04-17-2008, 04:34 PM

Sounds intriguing, Tara! Off to Google that... :thumbsup2

Is this it?
60oz. distilled water
1 tablespoon sugar free cranberry juice
1 dandelion root tea bag
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Mix together - and make sure you drink it ALL every day - do this every day for 7 days to see the results...

Oh...so that's the actual recipe!! I was watching a clip of Jillian and I couldn't tell if she said, "60 or 16." I played it over and over and thought she was saying 60 but didn't think that was possible w/ the small amounts of everything else. I thought she said 2 tbsp. of cran juice. I kinda just threw stuff together. I finally found the dandelion tea and it is pretty nasty by itself. O.k. I'm going to try the official recipe. Darn, I meant to buy more lemon juice.

On a bright note...I pulled out my maternity shorts and a stretch maternity shirt and THEY FIT!!! :banana: :laughing: :lmao: I really love these shorts and as long as I wear a longer shirt no one will ever know...Except you guys! They are the low rise, so hardly maternity. The butt part was sooooo tight by the end of the summer, I think I stopped wearing them around 7 months. They were sort of baggy today. We had a great day at the zoo. Only one temper tantrum from the 3 yr. old. She wanted ANOTHER stuffed animal. Oh, and I found $11 in the parking lot at our farmer's market!!! Woohoo! She goes, "next time we go to the zoo, you can buy me that parrot with the money you just found." :sad2: Nope, it's going right into the cruise fund.

Just wanted to remind everyone if you are cashing in Disney Visa points, now's probably a good time. The guy on the phone actually gave me $3 more! That is cool! We also have another rewards card from our debit card. Yea!!!

CustardTart

04-17-2008, 05:08 PM

Hi everyone just wanted to let you know that I reserved a room at the Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport this morning 4/17/08 for $73.00 per room. The info is as follows:

Four Star Hotel

4.5 out of a 5.0 rating

80 Reviews as of March 2008

Airport Shuttle
Pool
Restaurants
High Speed Internet
Business Center

Good luck everyone get it while you can

Great deal! :thumbsup2

CustardTart

04-17-2008, 05:11 PM

We knew he couldn't resist your feminine wiles!
Mmmm...you mean the sulking and foot stamping??? :rotfl2: :rotfl: :rotfl2:

...I'm guessing the last 700 of those posts occurred in the last 2 months :rotfl: Talk about picking up steam! :thumbsup2

::yes::::yes::::yes::

CustardTart

04-17-2008, 05:16 PM

Oh...so that's the actual recipe!! I was watching a clip of Jillian and I couldn't tell if she said, "60 or 16." I played it over and over and thought she was saying 60 but didn't think that was possible w/ the small amounts of everything else. I thought she said 2 tbsp. of cran juice. I kinda just through stuff together. I finally found the dandelion tea and it is pretty nasty by itself. O.k. I'm going to try the official recipe. Darn, I meant to buy more lemon juice....

60oz is a lot!!! About 1.75 litres in 'eurospeak' so I guess it's an alternative to drinking the daily recommended 2 litres of water - well, if I try the recipe, it'll have to be as that's just so much fluid!!! :rolleyes:

CustardTart

04-17-2008, 05:31 PM

...Announcement from Passporter -

"The Disney Cruise Line has joined several other major lines by announcing updated smoking regulations for its ships. Starting Saturday, April 19 on the Wonder, and Sunday, April 20 on the Magic, the new policy extends the no-smoking policy to every indoor area, including the clubs in the adult entertainment districts on Deck 3 forward (Diversions, Cadillac Lounge, Beat Street, etc.). Smoking is still allowed on guests' private verandahs. The outdoor smoking areas have been moved from port to starboard. Those are the deck 4 promenade, and outdoor areas on decks 9 and 10. The comfy smoking area immediately outside the entrance to the Cove Cafe on Deck 9 forward has been moved to the opposite side of the deck, as it was on the port side. As always, smoking is not allowed anywhere near the Mickey Pool."

We'll get to try this out on our Double Dip...

disneyfool_1202

04-17-2008, 07:56 PM

DAD AT DISNEY

04-17-2008, 08:22 PM

OK - it's been a long time since I've been on a cruise ship.. which one is port vs. starboard vs. aft... vs - what's the other one??
Good thing I quit smoking in 1996! I'd be WAY confused by this!!!

If you are standing at the back of the boat facing forward, starboard will be on your right.

momof4ngls

04-17-2008, 11:10 PM

OK - it's been a long time since I've been on a cruise ship.. which one is port vs. starboard vs. aft... vs - what's the other one??
Good thing I quit smoking in 1996! I'd be WAY confused by this!!!

Port is on the left (both have four letters, so easier to remember), Starboard is right, Forward is... well... front, Aft is the rear of the ship. :D

CustardTart

04-18-2008, 05:28 AM

Mornin' all! :wave:

In two weeks time, I'll be officially panicking about everything I've left undone, as DD and I will be leaving on a jetplane for MCO in the morning!!! :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

I had a leetle look at vacation-wear in a local store yesterday and duly noted a plethora of elasticated waist skirts. Sooo I'm thinking this could be the year of the comfort-fit skirt for me... :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl: Some of them are quite stylish - no, really!!! ;)

Having posted all excitedly about the revised smoking regulations last night, it now transpires there's nothing official on the DCL website as yet so caution as to the veracity of the claims is advised. Yawn - at times like this, I really wish there was a yawning smilie...

Have a great day, peeps... :goodvibes

Tarabra

04-18-2008, 09:31 AM

I hear ya on the elastic waist skirts. Last night I went to Target and found the cutest little denim cargo type skirt. I tried 3, yes 3 different sizes on and found the middle size to be the best fit, although it had a HUGE tie on the drawstring. All the shirts I tried on over it looked ridiculous w/ the big bulge on my stomach. How dumb! So I passed. The mirrors in the fitting room are just horrendous. I know most are positioned so you can see your back if you turn a certain way. Well, this one...your butt and all the excess is just staring you right in the face. No looking away!!! :scared1: On a more positive note, the lighting was GREAT!! A nice soft yellowish light that actually made me look like I had a little tan and didn't cast any shadows downward making those pockets of cellulite look like craters!!:thumbsup2 :lmao: I did buy the kids some floaties. I got Jonah a floatie w/ a place for his legs to slip through and a little cover that's sun protected. Someone had one of these the last time we were at Saratoga Springs and she let Ava use it for awhile. It was a nice break from holding her. I bought Ava 2 fish floats for $2 that we can just toss after CC. I finally got paid from my one closing, so I had a little bit of extra spending money. :woohoo:

Karen are you cruising for NYE too? I saw you on the NYE board. Lucky dog. I was just reading in the paper how it is such a great time for the European Traveller to come to the U.S. That would be great. I think it was actually an article about Disney and how tourism was down and they were hoping to lure the Europeans to come visit. I wish we could take advantage of the sinking U.S. dollar too!!!!:cool1: ;)

CustardTart

04-18-2008, 09:38 AM

...Karen are you cruising for NYE too? I saw you on the NYE board. Lucky dog. I was just reading in the paper how it is such a great time for the European Traveller to come to the U.S. That would be great. I think it was actually an article about Disney and how tourism was down and they were hoping to lure the Europeans to come visit. I wish we could take advantage of the sinking U.S. dollar too!!!!:cool1: ;)

Tara, we had to cancel the NYE trip as even tho' the cruise was great value with the exchange rate, the flights were absolutely crazeee prices!!! :scared1:

It was a shame and we were all disappointed for a while but there's always another trip to plan... ;)

Tarabra

04-18-2008, 10:31 AM

NYE on the ship would be a blast. Maybe one of these years. Although we've cruised w/ RCCL in Jan. and it was pretty chilly. The sail away party was out of New Orleans, and there were about 5 people dancing. (maybe that's because it was a little boring too!!!lol!) We couldn't really hang out on the decks because it was too windy, etc. RCCL did have a solarium type pool w/ a glass roof. That was nice, but I like to get a little of the real sun. We couldn't get into one of the ports because it was too rough, etc. I don't think I will ever cruise in Jan. again. Couldn't beat the $575 for a 7 day price tag though!! :thumbsup2

branv

04-18-2008, 08:40 PM

Mornin' all! :wave:

In two weeks time, I'll be officially panicking about everything I've left undone, as DD and I will be leaving on a jetplane for MCO in the morning!!! :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

Having posted all excitedly about the revised smoking regulations last night, it now transpires there's nothing official on the DCL website as yet so caution as to the veracity of the claims is advised. Yawn - at times like this, I really wish there was a yawning smilie...

Have a great day, peeps... :goodvibes

You are such a lucky duck to be beating us all to the vacation punch! Be thinking of us when you're soaking in the pixie dust pixiedust: Keep a light on for us at the WL :thumbsup2

Thanks for the smoking scoop Karen! I just read the bit on the mainboard that someone saw a semi-confirmation on disney's website for TA's, so yay! Cadillac bar, here I come! I wonder if they can get some of that stale icky smell out of there before our cruise :crazy2:

Tarabra

04-19-2008, 11:45 AM

Woohoo!! I got my butt up and went to a cardio kick boxing class at the gym!!! Listen to this deal I got... Years ago, I used to go to Bally's, but then we moved so it was about 1/2 hr. away. I joined the Y which was much closer. Well, the Y went up to about $700 for the family. DH's work would reimburse for up to $300, but I still had to pay the $700 up front. So we dropped our membership. I had been getting promos from Bally's for $99/ yr. for 3 times a week or $65 A YEAR for 2 times/ week. I missed a few weeks and wasn't sure if it was basically for 104 times a year or specifically for the week. I asked the manager and he said he wasn't quite sure so he scanned my card. He stared at the screen, then hesitantly said, "nothing came up...Have fun!!!" Yippee! I can go as many times as I want!!! Unfortunately, I won't really be able to take advantage of that but it's nice to know that if I want to do a blitz before the cruise that I can.:banana:

garys12

04-20-2008, 06:01 PM

momof4ngls

04-20-2008, 06:21 PM

Have you guys been reading the Trip Reports board. There was a 4 nite Wonder Cruise that could not get to CC about 2 weeks ago.

Here is my question, since ours is the first of the Double Dippers of the summer, do you think that Disney has a "backup plan" in the event that the ship is unable to dock there, or do you think we are going to have unscheduled sea days.

Please don't take this the wrong way as me being negative or anything. I am just a realist, and would hope that Disney has a plan in case of "emergency"..
On one recent cruise that I read about there was almost a mutiny on board, and each room ended up getting $100 ship board credit.

I am confident that this is not going to happen to us.

See you soon.

GS

Apparently it is a tight fit for them to go into CC, so if it's too windy, they have to pass. I'd rather they be careful than to risk our safety pulling in when it isn't safe. If that happens, I have no doubt they'll substitute with great things available to us out to sea. Don't get me wrong, if they offered us $100 credit per stateroom, I'm not crazy, I'd take it! But I signed that contract with the full knowledge that the itinerary might change. If it's something beyond their control, I see no reason why they should have to give me a credit, because I know they'll provide us with lots of fun out to sea. :D

disneyfool_1202

04-20-2008, 06:33 PM

Apparently it is a tight fit for them to go into CC, so if it's too windy, they have to pass. I'd rather they be careful than to risk our safety pulling in when it isn't safe. If that happens, I have no doubt they'll substitute with great things available to us out to sea. Don't get me wrong, if they offered us $100 credit per stateroom, I'm not crazy, I'd take it! But I signed that contract with the full knowledge that the itinerary might change. If it's something beyond their control, I see no reason why they should have to give me a credit, because I know they'll provide us with lots of fun out to sea. :D
ITA - I did the 4 night with a day at sea and 1 day at CC and I totally loved having a sea day because there were so many shipboard activities to enjoy. As much as I love CC I'm hoping there are still a wide range of on board things to do. 2 full beach days are a lot for little ones to be out in the sun all day - we're from MA so to go from the winter we just had to 2 full days in the sun at 80 plus degrees is a lot for our skin to handle!! We are just starting to get into the high 40's & 50's on a regular basis with a 60-70 degree day only 2 times in the past 2 weeks. Hell.... it was in the 30's just last week!

momof4ngls

04-20-2008, 06:48 PM

ITA - I did the 4 night with a day at sea and 1 day at CC and I totally loved having a sea day because there were so many shipboard activities to enjoy. As much as I love CC I'm hoping there are still a wide range of on board things to do. 2 full beach days are a lot for little ones to be out in the sun all day - we're from MA so to go from the winter we just had to 2 full days in the sun at 80 plus degrees is a lot for our skin to handle!! We are just starting to get into the high 40's & 50's on a regular basis with a 60-70 degree day only 2 times in the past 2 weeks. Hell.... it was in the 30's just last week!

We've had snow three days in a row now! LOL

Believe me, I understand about the sun!! I've had skin cancer twice and am a FREAK about watching how much sun we all get. We've already purchased the 500SPF (okay, not really that high, but I'd buy it if they had it!!!) sunblock for the trip and I'll have my big ole hat covering my face when we're in the sun. If I get my way, all six of us will be wearing hats!!! LOL

branv

04-20-2008, 10:17 PM

Oh yes, I just read the reports about those poor people who couldn't dock despite two different days attempts. Very sad :sad2: Really reminds me not to take it for granted that we will see CC. As stated, it is in the cruise contract, not just for DCL but any cruise line...they all have, from time to time, had to skip docking at a port due to weather, sea conditions, mechanical issues, etc. I think it's a reminder to sit down with your family and tell them that nothing is guaranteed but time together as a family...and that is the best part of vacation. :lovestruc It stinks, but we all have the chance to decide we don't like the terms of the contract and the risk reflected in it, and choose to take a different vacation (but then, all vacations hold some risk...heck, so does staying home ;)).

That being said, it does seem that DCL could be a little bit more on their toes adding new events or just getting them up and running.

SNOW?!?! It's been gorgeous here...we did have a brief "cold" front in the low 40's overnight. SHOCKING ;) Supposed to be in the 80's the rest of the month, and on up from there (ugh, painfully so). Gawdawful level of humidity today though -- I had major Witchypoo hair :scared1: I really should start working on some kind of base tan. Right now my skin is so white I glow, lovely blue veins showing through and all. Though luckily I have that strange genetic combination of anglo-saxon-nativeamerican which just means I can segue from pasty to toasty, bypassing crispy if I'm careful. Though the latter is rare...hate the heat, hate the wrinkles.

Okay, I know you guys can relate: I can remember being a kid in the 70's, running around ALL day at the pool, and no one used a lick of sun protection. Hmmmm...did they even HAVE it? Our sun tools were Sun-In Hair Lightener, Noxema and baby oil! My mom used to lay out on this foil mat for pete's sake. Course, you just have to look at my tag over my avatar to the left to remind all of us how different things were back then anyway -- how did any of us survive to adulthood? :rotfl:

CustardTart

04-21-2008, 06:16 AM

Happy Monday Double Dippers!!! Only 20 more sleeps till we board the Wonder!!! :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

Be afraid!!! I am a fan of exposing my body to the sun - as a psoriasis-sufferer it works wonders on my horrid skin, tho' all those on Serenity Bay might want to look the other way... :eek: ;) :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl:

However I'm a 'factor-50-sunblock-on-the-face' kinda gal - I've managed to get to nigh on 45 with scarcely a wrinkle and I want to stay that way... :scared:

MGM94

04-21-2008, 08:23 AM

CustardTart

04-21-2008, 09:31 AM

See you at SB! My favorite place on the island. :banana:

Same here! :cloud9: And please send that CM my way so I can order another Konk Kooler... :beach:

CustardTart

04-21-2008, 11:00 AM

Just ordered a few lurid novels to occupy me during the upcoming trip so that's another little step forward to departure!!! :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: I usually end up buying a fair few books once in WDW but I need at least one to read on the flight - 9 hours is a loooong time and I'm a faaaaast reader... http://bestsmileys.com/reading/4.gif

Tarabra

04-22-2008, 11:33 AM

Wow! I feel like I've been gone forever. My out of state buyers were in this weekend and I spent Sat. mapping out all the houses they wanted to see (16) and setting up the showings, then all day Sun showing them. I also had another buyer want to see something later that night. I'm def. not complaining though. They did write an offer, but the sellers don't want to close until the end of June and we are um...only $30k apart. I don't think it's going to come together. I really wanted this wrapped up before I left.

As far as missing CC, we've cruised 5 times in Apr/May and once in Aug. and never missed it. The weather is usually very calm that time of year. We did cruise in Jan. '04 on RCCL and missed the one island. We tried and tried to get in, but it was too windy. There was bad weather up North w/ temps below 0. Anyhow, a few years later the same ship crashed into the dock and put a hole in the side, so I'm glad we didn't keep attempting to get in. We went to a small, very poor country called Progresso. It was beautiful at the beach, but not a lot to do. Corona's were $1 so that rocked!! I'm pretty confident we'll make it.

Did some more shopping this weekend. It turns out, I found a bunch of gift cards from Christmas, Jonah's birth, etc. and got the kids some clothes. Mom got 1 shirt out of it. Those baby doll tees are cute, but I still look pregnant in them!! :goodvibes

wwoodles

04-22-2008, 02:58 PM

momof4ngls

04-22-2008, 04:04 PM

Just wondering. I want them in my hot lil hands. I am so ready but need the paperwork.ugh...just cking on yall. Can't wait. We are so psyched!:cool1:
wendy
(mike, matthew and mike, too!:dance3: )
I have a fish extender. any thoughts anyone? cabin #s pu-lease :santa:

I am collecting cabin #s and info (names or initials, ages, etc... but only if the person wanted to share that info) to send out to everybody a week or so before the cruise. Several people have expressed an interest, but only "Princessh" has actual sent me the info, so I figured it was gonna be a REALLY small exchange. LOL

So, I was going to call for info again today and I might as well call now! :D Everybody who wants to participate, PM me with your cabin numbers and any other information you want to share (such as total in your room, names or initials and ages, etc.). I'll make up a list and send it to everybody in about a week. :dance3:

momof4ngls

04-22-2008, 04:13 PM

Also, WWoodles... we don't have our documents yet either. Since our trip is being arranged by Make a Wish, we'll receive our documents about a week before, when they throw a Bon Voyage dinner for our daughter (and us). I filled out what I could online, am going to fax the medical form today, and will be so excited to get my hands on those documents as well. :D

I still can't believe we have this amazing opportunity! Please remember Make a Wish when you are all considering which organizations deserve your donations. They have been so good to our family and are making this whole trip possible for us! I can't WAIT to see my daughter's face when they treat her like the princess she is!

wwoodles

04-22-2008, 08:01 PM

yippeee..at least im getting a response. i will let you know my cabin number as soon as i know...you will hear me shouting it from the HILLS mountains..streets, etc. siked to hear more about y'all and hear more excitement in the coming days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:
wendy mike m and m

CustardTart

04-23-2008, 07:46 AM

Tarabra

04-23-2008, 08:03 AM

Got our cruise docs BUT I am still waiting on our flight tickets!!! :furious: Hurry, hurry, hurry!!!! I want them safe and sound in my vacation folder... :confused: :confused: :confused:

Hmmm... I didn't know they still had flight tickets. We've just printed them out online for the past 5 or so years. Speaking of flights...we got a notice that our flight had changed. It's been moved up to 11:39 a.m. Thurs. morning!! We're gonna be haulin' butt back to the airport. I'm not too worried though. We've always taken the bus back and one time got there early enough to catch a 10:30 flight instead of our regularly scheduled flight. I think it was $50 to move it. That was even w/ late seating and breakfast at 8. At least they didn't move our flight to Orlando. I would've been bummed getting there any later.

Tara

branv

04-23-2008, 08:41 AM

Tick tock, we're so close! I keep staring at this:

http://www.cel-ebration.com/BB-COGSWORTH-I.jpg

And impatiently tapping this:

http://www.fromscripttodvd.com/images/Cinderella%20DVD/Glass%20Slipper%20smaller.jpg

And singing this:

Love, exciting and neeew
Come Aboooard. We're expecting youuu.
Oh-woh-woh-woh
Lo-o-o-ve, life's sweetest reward.
Let it flooow, it floats back to youuu.

The Love Boaaat, soon will be making another run
The Love Boat promises something for everyone...

I so wanted to be Julie McCoy when I was a little kid...well, minus the cocaine usage of course.

(I'd like to point out that I did keep to the Disney theme, as the Love Boat was on ABC, which is now owned by Disney. Boo-yah! :rotfl:)

CustardTart

04-23-2008, 08:57 AM

Hmmm... I didn't know they still had flight tickets. We've just printed them out online for the past 5 or so years. Speaking of flights...we got a notice that our flight had changed. It's been moved up to 11:39 a.m. Thurs. morning!! We're gonna be haulin' butt back to the airport. I'm not too worried though. We've always taken the bus back and one time got there early enough to catch a 10:30 flight instead of our regularly scheduled flight. I think it was $50 to move it. That was even w/ late seating and breakfast at 8. At least they didn't move our flight to Orlando. I would've been bummed getting there any later.

Tara

We are a bit backward here in the UK. Think Flintstones but with more layers of clothing... ;) They don't issue paper tickets a rule but we booked a Fly-Drive package with a tour operator (cheaper for some reason) and they tend to stick with tradition... :cool2:

CustardTart

04-23-2008, 09:08 AM

Love, exciting and neeew
Come Aboooard. We're expecting youuu.
Oh-woh-woh-woh
Lo-o-o-ve, life's sweetest reward.
Let it flooow, it floats back to youuu.

The Love Boaaat, soon will be making another run
The Love Boat promises something for everyone...

Imagine my dizzy excitement when I discovered that, in August, we are sailing out of the port the Love Boat supposedly used!!! Calling Capt. Stubing!!! :goodvibes

disneyfool_1202

04-23-2008, 09:28 AM

OMG I LOVED that show!! I was in love with Gopher for the LONGEST time! (it was a tween thing for sure....)

CustardTart

04-23-2008, 09:32 AM

Especially for you, Denise...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/MV5BMTU0MzM4MTI0MV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTY.jpg

disneyfool_1202

04-23-2008, 10:20 AM

:rotfl2:
Now how can you not love that face?? Look at how he's looking right at me with that longing "I want you NOW" look in his eyes????????

luvmygoofyguy

04-23-2008, 03:21 PM

Wow, I've missed a lot! Everybody looked so nice in their pictures! I seem to only check in when I have a second at work, and they don't allow file uploads (they say its to protect our customers' privacy but I'm sure a lot has to do with people sending large files like photos to their shutterfly and related sites, and causing networks slowdowns, lol)....so until I find time to log in at home, I guess I won't be adding pics of us anytime soon (we're just over two weeks away, YESSSSSS!!!!! :woohoo: ).

We just got our cruise docs on Monday...I guess it varies from one person to the next. If it helps, wwoodles, we're on the west coast. I've heard delivery/mail varies depending on where the docs are heading.

I don't think I'll be a very good fish extender participant, so I'll bow out. Since I still need to do all our other cruise shopping still, I think any new requirements will push me over!!! Nothing like the last moment. :rolleyes1

You all seem like very nice people, just wanted to drop in and hope you all have a great time! back to work for me.

Cruiser1969

04-23-2008, 04:06 PM

I am collecting cabin #s and info (names or initials, ages, etc... but only if the person wanted to share that info) to send out to everybody a week or so before the cruise. Several people have expressed an interest, but only "Princessh" has actual sent me the info, so I figured it was gonna be a REALLY small exchange. LOL

So, I was going to call for info again today and I might as well call now! :D Everybody who wants to participate, PM me with your cabin numbers and any other information you want to share (such as total in your room, names or initials and ages, etc.). I'll make up a list and send it to everybody in about a week. :dance3:

Are you talking about fish extenders? I had asked about this in an earlier post, but I figured the list was already set and too late to join because no one had replied to my request. That was cool with me!

But, it sounds like the group has not yet formed. I would love to be involved in a fish extender exchange.

Please please fill me in:

1) What is acceptable as a fish extender (I've seen some pretty fancy ones!!!)
2) Is the idea to go around and add little gifts to fish extenders for others?
3) How much does one spend per gift?

If you will have me, I will PM you my information. Are you going to be sending out a list to everyone so we know how many items to bring?

Any info would be helpful:goodvibes

momof4ngls

04-23-2008, 06:24 PM

Are you talking about fish extenders? I had asked about this in an earlier post, but I figured the list was already set and too late to join because no one had replied to my request. That's was cool with me!

But, it sounds like the group has not yet formed. I would love to be involved in a fish extender exchange.

Please please fill me in:

1) What is acceptable as a fish extender (I've seen some pretty fancy ones!!!)
2) Is the idea to go around and add little gifts to fish extenders for others?
3) How much does one spend per gift?

If you will have me, I will PM you my information. Are you going to be sending out a list to everyone so we know how many items to bring?

Any info would be helpful:goodvibes

I'm so sorry I missed your question! I thought I caught everybody when they asked, but I tend to get interrupted in the middle of typing responses. That's what happens in my house with two teens and two littles. ;)

Your fish extender does not need to be fancy or elaborate. Just a place for others to leave you notes/cards/small gifts.

I'll send out a list to the participants, with the stateroom numbers and any other information each participant wants to share. Then, sometime during the cruise, you go around and deposit your gifts into the other participants' FEs. The gifts can be homemade, purchased, Disney related, something pertaining to where you live, etc. I've read of people giving magnets, crafts, etc. Don't spend much per gift, please! This is just to add a little fun and magic to our cruises. :D If the list gets too long, we'll split it up so nobody has to spend much of their time finding staterooms, but so far it's a pretty small list, so it shouldn't be too involved. You don't even have to do all the rooms at one time, if you want to just keep track on your list and do a couple a day. Also, this is for all ages, children or not. :cutie:

I'll have a couple of things in mind, but my gift will probably be related to the area where I live or maybe something submarine related (DH is a submariner).

So, everybody start pm'ing me with your info!!! :banana:

Cruiser1969

04-23-2008, 08:57 PM

I'm so sorry I missed your question! I thought I caught everybody when they asked, but I tend to get interrupted in the middle of typing responses. That's what happens in my house with two teens and two littles. ;)

Your fish extender does not need to be fancy or elaborate. Just a place for others to leave you notes/cards/small gifts.

I'll send out a list to the participants, with the stateroom numbers and any other information each participant wants to share. Then, sometime during the cruise, you go around and deposit your gifts into the other participants' FEs. The gifts can be homemade, purchased, Disney related, something pertaining to where you live, etc. I've read of people giving magnets, crafts, etc. Don't spend much per gift, please! This is just to add a little fun and magic to our cruises. :D If the list gets too long, we'll split it up so nobody has to spend much of their time finding staterooms, but so far it's a pretty small list, so it shouldn't be too involved. You don't even have to do all the rooms at one time, if you want to just keep track on your list and do a couple a day. Also, this is for all ages, children or not. :cutie:

I'll have a couple of things in mind, but my gift will probably be related to the area where I live or maybe something submarine related (DH is a submariner).

So, everybody start pm'ing me with your info!!! :banana:

Thank you so much!!! I've PMed you:cool1:

disneyfool_1202

04-24-2008, 06:44 AM

Boy... all this commotion on the main cruise board about CC docking issues. Makes me glad we're on a double dip - are we the first actual DD cruise? I wonder if DCL added the DD because of docking issues. Doesn't matter to me either way. I'd love to get to CC, but if not I'll find plenty of things to do (the spa will eventually open right?? And if not, there is always plenty of alcohol!)

I just hope I can get my parasailing in and if for some reason I can't- I'll just find time to do it at the Contemporary marina after the cruise!!

I can't believe we are almost at the 2 week mark. The time is going to FLY now (I'm willing it to!!).
We have so much going on this weekend - just Sunday alone I have DD's dancing school pictures at 10, then tickets for the circus at 2, and then DS has soccer at 4:30... talk about an exhausting day!!

Has anyone actually started packing??

Cruiser1969

04-24-2008, 07:46 AM

Has anyone actually started packing??

Nope . . . just brought the bags up to fill, but nothing is in them yet:scared1:

My DD9 has dance pictures, too, tonight and tomorrow!!:thumbsup2

disneyfool_1202

04-24-2008, 08:25 AM

My DD9 has dance pictures, too, tonight and tomorrow!!:thumbsup2
This is our first year at dance since DD is only 2.5. They are being lions and dancing to "shy lion". I'll have to post a pic when I finally have them!!

Cruiser1969

04-24-2008, 08:34 AM

This is our first year at dance since DD is only 2.5. They are being lions and dancing to "shy lion". I'll have to post a pic when I finally have them!!

That is adorable!! I would love to see a picture!!!!

I love the way the little ones get on stage and start waving to everyone they know in the audience . . . precious!!!!!:angel:

disneyfool_1202

04-24-2008, 09:19 AM

It gets better........

As of January DH started working Saturdays so I had to start taking DS with me to DD's dance class. He would fuss about not going in the room with his sister to dance so the owner said "have him come in a few times and see how he does". He's the best in the class and it looks like he'll be in the receital with her!! He towers over all the 2-3 year olds (he's 4.5). He LOVES it and his sister, who would stand in the corner 60% of the time not wanting to do anything is now doing the dance and doing awesome!
He won't be in the pictures this weekend because there isn't a costume for him, so I opted out (he could have been in them wearing a black shirt & pants like the lion tamer, but I thought it best to let her have her glory - he has soccer all to himself).

CustardTart

04-24-2008, 02:40 PM

Hi Double Dippers! :wave: Not long to go now!!! :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

Today I made a nail appointment for next Friday and bought some new swimwear. :goodvibes Plus I've even worked out my Palo's outfit, so all in all a good day... :cloud9:

branv

04-24-2008, 06:26 PM

This trip gets more expensive the closer we get!

Sunscreen -- expired
Bonine -- expired
Aloe Vera -- mysteriously gooey
Swimsuit -- errrr, it shrunk...sitting in the drawer

Though it seems counterintuitive to spend any amount of money on a swimsuit when the first thing I'll do is cover it up :rolleyes1

Help, I need some girl advice! Would you leave your genetically-unpleasant hair long for the trip, just so you can clip it up for speed, convenience, and to keep cool in the heat and humidity, thereby snubbing fashion and dooming yourself to the same limp, matronly pictures? Or would you cut it to mid-neck length, knowing it will add 30 minutes to your morning and every time you get out of the water, require 50 gallons of "Big Sexy Hair Root Boost", but also knowing it will mean you have better looking photos?

If it helps, it takes so long to do even shorter hair b/c we are battling: thin, fine, humidity-sensitive hair, all with chipmunk cheeks on a GIGANTIC melon which makes the hair look even sparser (no really, I don't fit into women's hats :rolleyes: )

WWYD?

Focus more on convenience and speed....or care more about the pictures?

And to think I used to tease my mom for choosing comfort over fashion. Think I owe her an apology.

disneyfool_1202

04-24-2008, 07:36 PM

WWYD?

Focus more on convenience and speed....or care more about the pictures?
I'd do a little of both. I'd cut it and not worry about it during the day (not worth the time if we're at CC x2 days) and then just vogue yourself a bit for dinner when the cruise photographers are going to get some of their finest shots!

Note- this is coming from someone who's hair is SHORT - convenient when I want it to be and lots of Big Sexy Hair gel and hairspray when I need a bit more Va Voom!

momof4ngls

04-25-2008, 01:10 AM

CustardTart

04-25-2008, 02:51 AM

Help, I need some girl advice! Would you leave your genetically-unpleasant hair long for the trip, just so you can clip it up for speed, convenience, and to keep cool in the heat and humidity, thereby snubbing fashion and dooming yourself to the same limp, matronly pictures? Or would you cut it to mid-neck length, knowing it will add 30 minutes to your morning and every time you get out of the water, require 50 gallons of "Big Sexy Hair Root Boost", but also knowing it will mean you have better looking photos?

If it helps, it takes so long to do even shorter hair b/c we are battling: thin, fine, humidity-sensitive hair, all with chipmunk cheeks on a GIGANTIC melon which makes the hair look even sparser (no really, I don't fit into women's hats :rolleyes: )

WWYD?

Focus more on convenience and speed....or care more about the pictures?

And to think I used to tease my mom for choosing comfort over fashion. Think I owe her an apology.

As someone who is still trying to deal with the ill-advised bang-cutting incident of 2008, I'd play it safe. Stick to what you know and play around with what you've got. I too suffer with the thin, fine, humidity-sensitive thing and the cheeks (tho' my head's quite weeny - I can wear kids hats) so know the trials there. Maybe keep it long and have a bash at putting it up for photo opportunities... :goodvibes Good luck... ;)

CustardTart

04-25-2008, 02:54 AM

CustardTart

04-25-2008, 04:17 AM

And finally... The remaining travel documents arrived this morning so DD and I are all set!!! :yay: :yay: :yay:

disneyfool_1202

04-25-2008, 06:31 AM

Happy Friday! Another day closer.... http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/BananaRow.gif

Going to start packing today, I think. Not that I'm bringing much plus we have a washer/dryer in VWL so I will be making good use of that! :cool1:

We're doing VWL after our cruise for 5 nights and I love having the washer / dryer. I can start my land vaca with clean clothes (as soon as I check in, into the wash they shall go) and pack all clean clothes to take home so unpacking will be unpack and hang. :woohoo: Less work for me!!
I always end up doing 2 loads a day. I do one at night, and one every morning (1 darks / 1 lights w/towels). It's SO convenient (especially with the kids) and I don't have to pack as much!

OK - my big "debate". How many pairs of shoes is too many to take on a 4 night cruise? I of course have my tevas and sneakers for day time wear (and for our post cruise park days) but it's the evening wear that's got me all muddled. I have this really nice white dress w/pink flowers that I was going to wear for dress up night - DH & DS have pink polos and DD has a pink dress so I thought we'd all coordinate well in pictures. So I have white sandals for that. Then I have my black tube dress which I might end up wearing for dress up night (in that case I must pack a black polo for DH) since my BF has the SAME white & pink dress... don't want to wear the same dress the same night and sit at the same table!! So my black sandals would work well. Then I have black capri's and white capri's - can wear black sandals with either of those. So one would think "just bring the black" but they won't match the white dress. Of course I could bring my silver slip ons - those match everything! They are completely made out of clear plastic- small platform on front and heel are all clear plastic. The strip across the top of foot is also clear but has a strip of about 1" silver sparkle forming an x. My DD LOVES them and says they are "Cinderella's shoes" and can't for the life of her figure out how mommy ended up with Cinderella's slippers. I think I'll bring those - but then if I wear them with the capri's I'll look like a "woman of the night". :lmao:

If anyone see's a little girl near Cinderella trying to wrestle a shoe off of a grown woman, then you'll know it's us! I'm sure once she actually meets Cinderella she'll want to give her slippers back to her!!

Cruiser1969

04-25-2008, 10:37 AM

This trip gets more expensive the closer we get!

Sunscreen -- expired
Bonine -- expired
Aloe Vera -- mysteriously gooey
Swimsuit -- errrr, it shrunk...sitting in the drawer

Though it seems counterintuitive to spend any amount of money on a swimsuit when the first thing I'll do is cover it up :rolleyes1

This post just cracked me up:lmao:

I hear ya about the expired supplies . . . I have to go out an make the big "drug supply" run to Wal-Mart, too, because everything has expired!!!:rotfl:

. . . and the bathing suit:laughing: . . . don't get me started. I've put this off for too long and I'm sure I'll end up wearing the same old thing from last year!!!

On a more serious note . . . DD9 has had a fever for the third day now and has developed a rash:scared1: I think she may have Scarlet Fever. I'm bringing her in later today for a doctor's appointment. I just hope it doesn't spread through the household. We have 2 weeks to kick this thing!!!!!:scared1:

Really needing some pixie dust people!!!pixiedust:

CustardTart

04-25-2008, 10:40 AM

....On a more serious note . . . DD9 has had a fever for the third day now and has developed a rash:scared1: I think she may have Scarlet Fever. I'm bringing her in later today for a doctor's appointment. I just hope it doesn't spread through the household. We have 2 weeks to kick this thing!!!!!:scared1:

Really needing some pixie dust people!!!pixiedust:

:scared1: :scared1: :scared1:
pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust:
:hug: :hug: :hug:

disneyfool_1202

04-25-2008, 10:52 AM

branv

04-25-2008, 11:08 AM

On a more serious note . . . DD9 has had a fever for the third day now and has developed a rash:scared1: I think she may have Scarlet Fever. I'm bringing her in later today for a doctor's appointment. I just hope it doesn't spread through the household. We have 2 weeks to kick this thing!!!!!:scared1:

Really needing some pixie dust people!!!pixiedust:

WHAT?!?! I thought scarlet fever hadn't been around since Little House on the Prairie type days! Your poor DD! Poor YOU! I will absolutely have my fingers and toes crossed for you. :hug:

We're doing VWL after our cruise for 5 nights and I love having the washer / dryer. I can start my land vaca with clean clothes (as soon as I check in, into the wash they shall go) and pack all clean clothes to take home so unpacking will be unpack and hang. :woohoo: Less work for me!!
I always end up doing 2 loads a day. I do one at night, and one every morning (1 darks / 1 lights w/towels). It's SO convenient (especially with the kids) and I don't have to pack as much!

OK - my big "debate". How many pairs of shoes is too many to take on a 4 night cruise? I of course have my tevas and sneakers for day time wear (and for our post cruise park days) but it's the evening wear that's got me all muddled. I have this really nice white dress w/pink flowers that I was going to wear for dress up night - DH & DS have pink polos and DD has a pink dress so I thought we'd all coordinate well in pictures. So I have white sandals for that. Then I have my black tube dress which I might end up wearing for dress up night (in that case I must pack a black polo for DH) since my BF has the SAME white & pink dress... don't want to wear the same dress the same night and sit at the same table!! So my black sandals would work well. Then I have black capri's and white capri's - can wear black sandals with either of those. So one would think "just bring the black" but they won't match the white dress. Of course I could bring my silver slip ons - those match everything! They are completely made out of clear plastic- small platform on front and heel are all clear plastic. The strip across the top of foot is also clear but has a strip of about 1" silver sparkle forming an x. My DD LOVES them and says they are "Cinderella's shoes" and can't for the life of her figure out how mommy ended up with Cinderella's slippers. I think I'll bring those - but then if I wear them with the capri's I'll look like a "woman of the night". :lmao:

If anyone see's a little girl near Cinderella trying to wrestle a shoe off of a grown woman, then you'll know it's us! I'm sure once she actually meets Cinderella she'll want to give her slippers back to her!!

Oh you DVC people are lucky ducks! I'll be getting up at the buttcrack of dawn Sunday morning of the cruise to wash all the clothes we wore at the parks. :laundy:

The shoe thing...so hard to pack, so hard to leave behind. I think 4 pair is actually a conservative # to take, especially with your added trip to the parks and the cruise's different themed nights. For the parks/cruise, I plan on taking 2 pairs of crocs, a platinum colored pair of flip-flops and a strappy pair of 2" black heels.

BTW: thanks everyone for the good points on the hair! I think I'll just get a good trim, and ask the stylist for the best way to a) put my hair up and b) keep my bangs in order -- I always leave the room with them in a cute little side sweep, and always end up inside of the hour with what looks like clumps of commas on my head. :rolleyes: Product, people, I need product! :thumbsup2

FYI: I don't know if this will affect anyone, but WDW changed one of their EMH's the weekend before our trip. Saturday's morning DHS EMH has been changed to an AK EMH. Totally throws off my plans, but that just gives me another opportunity to scheme some more :thumbsup2

CustardTart

04-25-2008, 11:23 AM

...I think I'll just get a good trim, and ask the stylist for the best way to a) put my hair up and b) keep my bangs in order...

Good idea!!! :goodvibes :goodvibes :goodvibes

momof4ngls

04-25-2008, 11:24 AM

This post just cracked me up:lmao:

I hear ya about the expired supplies . . . I have to go out an make the big "drug supply" run to Wal-Mart, too, because everything has expired!!!:rotfl:

. . . and the bathing suit:laughing: . . . don't get me started. I've put this off for too long and I'm sure I'll end up wearing the same old thing from last year!!!

On a more serious note . . . DD9 has had a fever for the third day now and has developed a rash:scared1: I think she may have Scarlet Fever. I'm bringing her in later today for a doctor's appointment. I just hope it doesn't spread through the household. We have 2 weeks to kick this thing!!!!!:scared1:

Really needing some pixie dust people!!!pixiedust:

Could it be Roseola, AKA Sixth Disease? Read about it here: Roseola Information (http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/roseola.html)

If so, then the rash should be gone soon and the worst is likely over. :)

Cruiser1969

04-25-2008, 12:01 PM

Just to stay in a Scarlet Fever theme, I'll reply in red;)

:scared1: :scared1: :scared1:
pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust:
:hug: :hug: :hug:

Thank you!!! I hope it works!!

Does she have spots on her palate or a thick yellowish coating on the inside her mouth and on the roof of her mouth? Any swollen glands? Both of these are common to Scarlet fever.

If she had cold like symptoms before hand and no swollen glands or mouth symptoms it might be 5th Disease (which is much more common in children than Scarlet Fever).

Good luck and let us know.

Her mouth looks like a strawberry:cutie: , mostly white with red spots. Her glands are swollen, and she has been complaining of a sore throat. She has a fever, the throat thing and a headache. She just broke out in the rash today. She has a doctor's appointment later this afternoon, and I will keep you all updated!

WHAT?!?! I thought scarlet fever hadn't been around since Little House on the Prairie type days! Your poor DD! Poor YOU! I will absolutely have my fingers and toes crossed for you. :hug:

I know . . . too funny! Having it is not funny,of course, but saying, "My DD has Scarlet Fever" just cracks me up!! Thanks for the crossed digits!!:thumbsup2

Could it be Roseola, AKA Sixth Disease? Read about it here: Roseola Information (http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/roseola.html)

If so, then the rash should be gone soon and the worst is likely over. :)

Thanks for the link! After reading it and some Scarlet Fever info, it really sounds like Scarlet Fever to me. So, if it's not Roseola . . . and the worst is not over . . . what am I in for?:scared1:

Cruiser1969

04-25-2008, 12:05 PM

I've been burned by the heavy suitcase fee once before, so I'm going to pack as minimally as possible.

Two pairs of shoes: one pair of black slides to wear with capris (no skirts for me this trip!!) and Crocs for every other time of the day!!!!!:thumbsup2

disneyfool_1202

04-25-2008, 12:07 PM

Thanks for the link! After reading it and some Scarlet Fever info, it really sounds like Scarlet Fever to me. So, if it's not Roseola . . . and the worst is not over . . . what am I in for?:scared1:
About 7-10 days of antibiotics. Plenty of time before the cruise to get better!!

momof4ngls

04-25-2008, 04:20 PM

Maria, that definitely does not sound like Roseola to me! I hope whatever it is will not be too terrible for her, that the doctor can treat it, and that it will not hinder your trip! :D

The posters on the Make a Wish thread asked for some cruise trip reports (most of them have gone to the parks, not on a cruise), so I started writing mine today. It is not nearly as witty as the others I've read, but hopefully it won't be too bad and will ultimately help another wish family have an idea of what to expect on their cruise. :D The link is in my signature.

OH, also, there was a post about not taking many shoes because of the concern about weight... I always weigh myself and then weigh myself holding the suitcase, so I have a good idea of how much the suitcase weighs. Obviously packing the heavier things spread out among all your suitcases helps, but also packing a smaller suitcase with the heavier things will help because you won't be able to pack as much in it, so not as much risk of going over the allowed weight. These are probably just common sense to most, but for those of us who don't fly often, we don't always think of these things.

Hair? I agree with just getting a good trim and working with what you know. I'll be getting everybody's hair cut sometime next week, probably, so we look less ragamuffin before the Make a Wish party. I'm have a WONDERFUL hairdresser, though, and his cuts even look good when you are WAY overdue for a new one. It has been six months since my last cut and I'm just now getting fed up with the condition of my hair. I'm very blessed to have thick, naturally curly hair. It may be a curse in the humidity we'll endure on the cruise, though. SO, if you see Rosanne Rosannadanna on the ship, you'll know that's me!!! :rotfl:
http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h150/momo4ngls/Rosanne-Radner-4.jpg

branv

04-26-2008, 12:23 PM

Maria -- have you heard anything from your doctor yet? Hoping you've gotten good news!

The posters on the Make a Wish thread asked for some cruise trip reports (most of them have gone to the parks, not on a cruise), so I started writing mine today. It is not nearly as witty as the others I've read, but hopefully it won't be too bad and will ultimately help another wish family have an idea of what to expect on their cruise. :D The link is in my signature.

It may be a curse in the humidity we'll endure on the cruise, though. SO, if you see Rosanne Rosannadanna on the ship, you'll know that's me!!! :rotfl:
http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h150/momo4ngls/Rosanne-Radner-4.jpg

Trip report is great! It's cool that it can help some other families out...it's amazing how much there is to learn that can help a person to get the most out of a Disney cruise. :thumbsup2

LOL on the Rosannadanna pic :rotfl:

I checked the weather report for Castaway Cay, and at least for next week the high temps are in the upper 70's. Perfect! Though our poor friends who are sailing on the Wonder tomorrow are in for some bad news, 70% chance of thunderstorms on their CC day :sad2: And that's the ONLY day predicted for rain that week. Hopefully the captain can switch up CC and the sea day for them. The seas off of Florida look good too, no higher than 4 feet. Lets hope the balmy, calm weather keeps up. :thumbsup2 :beach:

Cruiser1969

04-26-2008, 02:42 PM

Well, as suspected, my DD has Scarlet Fever . . . but after one day of antibiotics, she's already feeling much better!!! She'll be on antibiotics for the next week, and you can bet your bottom dollar that everyone in the house is on HIGH alert!!!! I'm not normally a germaphobic person, but a couple weeks before a big trip, I turn into a GERM PSYCHO, using all measures possible to avoid an infestation:sick:

Melissa: Great trip report so far!!! I love the names you've given your children for the report!! I'm postivie that this will be a Magical vacation and well-deserved!!!!:goodvibes

OK . . . I'm just about to burst with the fish extender activity. I went "browsing" today and had to stop myself from buying up the whole store. I saw so many wonderful things to use as fish extender gifts! When will we find out how many we are buying for? I must SHOP!!!!!

I must admit, though, that my actual fish extender will probably be pretty lame since I didn't think I'd be doing one of these until this week, so don't expect to see anything fancy hanging on my fish:lmao:

I'm so excited to start filling up the pouches with goodies!!!!:woohoo: I think this whole idea is awesome!!! :thumbsup2

disneyfool_1202

04-26-2008, 05:32 PM

Oh dear... I went to Target today to pick up a few travel size toiletries and a pair of sunglasses. I spent $100. My DH is going to KILL me!!!
I got 2 pairs of sunglasses but they were both cheap- they came to maybe $25 for both of them (just couldn't decide). Then there was the SPF 50 for the kids, the SPF 15 for DH, and the SPF 10 for me.... those came to about $25. The rest was all itty bitty travel size stuff. I got shampoos, conditioners, body wash, lotions, sani wipes.... lots and lots of little things. Man it adds up FAST! Oh well- hopefully DH will get the bill AFTER our cruise (so I don't need to listen to him for the next 2 weeks).

Isabella was telling my mother today "in Disney World, I'm going to Bippity Boppity Tee to be a princess". It was too cute! I'm bringing her Cinderella dress for our dinner w/Cinderella which is the Sunday after the cruise. Should I let her wear it on the cruise ship? I think it's a bit much.... but she loves it!

Tarabra

04-26-2008, 07:54 PM

Denise, Absolutely let her wear it on the ship. The little girl at our table one year wore a different Disney dress all 7 nights. I hear ya on spending at Target. I've been there a few times in the past couple of weeks. It's a MUST to bring two pair of sunglasses. Last time one pair broke and I lost the other pair!!! Nothing like no sunglasses in the Caribbean. :sad2: I checked every day at Customer service to no avail, and then finally after we got off the ship, they have that big box of lost and found and they were in there. Hmmm....I wonder where they were for 3 days??

As far as the shoes. I have a really cute black pair of slides w/ all different colors on them. I brought them along w/ me and even though they go with everything, my brown slides are much more comfi. So I think I'll pass on them since I didn't wear them the last time. I'll bring one pair of tennis shoes, one pair of black chunky slides and my brown ones. Nobody will notice anyway.

CustardTart

04-27-2008, 10:39 AM

...I'm bringing her Cinderella dress for our dinner w/Cinderella which is the Sunday after the cruise. Should I let her wear it on the cruise ship? I think it's a bit much.... but she loves it!

I agree with Tara, let her wear it! So many of the other littlies do and it looks very sweet... :goodvibes

disneyfool_1202

04-27-2008, 11:16 AM

OK I just HAVE to post this! This morning was dancing school photos and this is Bella's very first year (she's only 2.5) and she got all dolled up and posed with her 'best friend' (these two are like glue).
Bella is smaller the one on the left (when you're looking at the photo).
I'm just so :cloud9: over this!!

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8da06b3127ccea8928fb676ac00000016109AcsWzJq4am

Cruiser1969

04-27-2008, 11:38 AM

Cruiser1969

04-27-2008, 11:40 AM

I'm bringing her Cinderella dress for our dinner w/Cinderella which is the Sunday after the cruise. Should I let her wear it on the cruise ship? I think it's a bit much.... but she loves it!

Absolutely she should wear it!!! Now is the time to enjoy her whimsical youth!!!princess:

sasser05

04-28-2008, 09:27 AM

CustardTart

04-28-2008, 10:13 AM

What happens if we dont get to castaway either day as some cruises just dont, can you call it a double dip if you dont ever get there. Disney would have to be prepared for something like that since missing the island has happened 2 out of my 4 cruises. just wondering

Hopefully 3rd time lucky for you!!! :thumbsup2 Keeping my fingers crossed that we get both trips to CC.... :goodvibes

branv

04-28-2008, 10:36 AM

Let's play a game :)

Where will you be, what will you be doing, 2 weeks from the time you are posting (don't try to translate in terms of time zone, just use your current time/day).

On Monday 5/12, at 10:39 am, I will:

have just stepped off the catamaran somewhere off of Castaway Cay into blue, blue water, bobbing over some fish and coral and trying not to panic every time water comes into my snorkel :rotfl:

So guess what...I found something else that was expired! My ginger pills -- I really, really should clean out my medicine cabinet more often. Oh DARN. Guess I'll HAVE to go shopping again. Life is so unfair. :rolleyes1 I finally found a swimsuit yesterday, though in the scheme of things, it's really about finding the best of the worst nightmare, isn't it? I generally have, if not peace, at least a truce with my body type, but let me tell you, when you look over your shoulder at that mirror behind you and see those thighs...well, does anyone remember that time-lapse camera photo of when Mt. St. Helen's erupted in '80 and the side of the mountain just started sliding down into itself? You get the picture. And what's with all the halter-top tankini's for pooh-sized women? I mean really, the more pooh, the more complicated structural engineering you need -- girding, trusses, cranes! A halter-top tied behind my neck is like trying to lift a bowling ball with a piece of dental floss.

Surely there is a special circle of hell designated solely for the designers of bathing suits, jeans, bras and the inventor of brazilian waxing.

disneyfool_1202

04-28-2008, 10:47 AM

Let's play a game :)

Where will you be, what will you be doing, 2 weeks from the time you are posting (don't try to translate in terms of time zone, just use your current time/day).

On Monday 5/12, at 12:08pm, I will:

Be finishing up parasailing and settling down for lunch with my family, a huge plate of ribs in front of me with lots and lots of napkins!

branv

04-28-2008, 11:00 AM

On Monday 5/12, at 12:08pm, I will:

Be finishing up parasailing and settling down for lunch with my family, a huge plate of ribs in front of me with lots and lots of napkins!

Mmmmmmm...riiiiibs. Now I'm not sure if the napkins are for the sauce or for the drooling! :thumbsup2

CustardTart

04-28-2008, 12:09 PM

At approaching 6.30pm on May 12th, I guess we'll be watching a show and sipping a Bahama Mama... popcorn::

momtocss

04-28-2008, 03:49 PM

Kelly with DH and DD - 12 and DS - 9 and 9 (Yes they are twins, and no, they don't look a thing alike) LOL

This will be DH and my third cruise. 15 years ago we cruised on Norwegian for our honeymoon. 5 years ago we did a Royal Caribbean cruise for our 10 year. I told him then that I wasn't waiting another 10 to cruise again and for our 15 year we would take our kids on a Disney cruise. Granted we are going a month before our anniversary and taking the kids out of school, but I didn't want to pay the summer rates. I can't wait!

-Kelly

disneyfool_1202

04-28-2008, 07:15 PM

Welcome Kelly & Family!..............

OK - I'm going again! 2 wks from now I'll be sitting in the Walt Disney Theater watching the show and hoping that DS doesn't freak out (he has some sensory issues and gets concerned when it's either too loud or it suddently gets dark).

Cruiser1969

04-28-2008, 07:26 PM

Hi Kelly!!:welcome:

Ok . . . my turn . . . two weeks from now, at 8:46pm, I'll probably still be eating my dinner:drinking1 (late seating!!!) ha ha

branv

04-28-2008, 07:39 PM

Welcome Kelly!

Going again too, b/c it's making me giddy thinking about it ;)

At 7:56 pm next Monday I will be sashaying into Palo for a hugely decadent, stretch-mark forming dinner :thumbsup2

garys12

04-28-2008, 08:02 PM

momof4ngls

04-28-2008, 09:12 PM

Ok, everybody, we're getting down to the wire with the Fish Extender Exchange! I only have three families signed up so far and I know there are others here with FEs!! :lmao: So, please pm me with your info (stateroom number, any other info you want listed, such as ages of those in room, maybe names or initials, etc.) and I'll get the list sent out at the end of the week so everybody can get little trinkets/gifts together. If anybody needs the list earlier, because you get to start your magic earlier than the rest of us, please let me know. I can then just email you any additions, if you'll be able to get emails while at DW. :goodvibes

So far I have the following families signed up:
princessh
Cruiser1969
Momof4ngls

Come on and join the fun! It won't take much time out of your schedule and it will be neat to find surprises in your FE as well as spreading some magic for other cruisers.

I'm going to bring some extra little things too, in case I see other FEs on the ship. :goodvibes

momof4ngls

04-28-2008, 11:30 PM

Also, if it helps convince somebody to participate... On the fish extender thread, there are pictures of different things people have used as FEs, including tote bags and Easter or Halloween baskets. So it isn't something you have to spend money on to have an FE so you can participate!!! Just be sure and take a zip-tie with ya to keep others from taking your FE. ;)

sasser05

04-29-2008, 06:09 AM

Do we still need to fill out those Bahama forms I never got those with our tickets. So was wondering if I need to get those forms sent to me.

disneyfool_1202

04-29-2008, 06:35 AM

Do we still need to fill out those Bahama forms I never got those with our tickets. So was wondering if I need to get those forms sent to me.
Any and all forms you need to fill out can be found at DCL on line. Log into their site under "My Cruise Plans" and retreive your reservation (you'll need your reservation number and the DOB of the person who booked the cruise). Then there's a link that will take you to all of the paperwork and it can all be filled out on line. the only thing you need to print and bring with you is your cruise contract because you need to sign it and hand it in during check in.
Hope this helps!

disneyfool_1202

04-29-2008, 06:37 AM

Come on and join the fun! It won't take much time out of your schedule and it will be neat to find surprises in your FE as well as spreading some magic for other cruisers.
OK - WTH.... count me in but I can't promise any "grand" gifts! :rotfl: With very little time before our cruise I'll need to find some time to go shopping, but I'm always up for THAT sort of challange!!!
I'll PM you our info. Thanks!

Cruiser1969

04-29-2008, 06:51 AM

OK - WTH.... count me in but I can't promise any "grand" gifts! :rotfl: With very little time before our cruise I'll need to find some time to go shopping, but I'm always up for THAT sort of challange!!!
I'll PM you our info. Thanks!

Yay!!:cheer2:

It'll be fun, and the little ones will love finding little treasures deposited in their fish extender!!

Speaking of simple fish extenders, mine is a :laundy: clothespin holder:lmao:

I'm working at Disneyfying it a little, but it may not happen.:sad2:

disneyfool_1202

04-29-2008, 06:59 AM

Speaking of simple fish extenders, mine is a :laundy: clothespin holder:lmao:

I'm woking at Disneyfying it a little, but it may not happen.:sad2:
At this rate, mine will probably be a zip loc baggie with a hole in it, tied to the fish by a string!

Cruiser1969

04-29-2008, 07:09 AM

At this rate, mine will probably be a zip loc baggie with a hole in it, tied to the fish by a string!

Don't forget the zip tie to make sure no one takes it:lmao:

disneyfool_1202

04-29-2008, 07:15 AM

Don't forget the zip tie to make sure no one takes it:lmao:
Oh Great! Coffee spewed all over my keyboard! :rotfl2:
I just mapped out how long it would take me to get to the craft store from work - about 10 minutes. I have dinner plans with some old coworkers so I have time between end of work and dinner to go SHOPPING!!!

Feeling like I'm getting lots done.....

Buy Itty Bitty Toiletries - check!
Prepurchased Photopass CD for post cruise vacation - check!
Ordered groceries for post cruise vacation - check!
Loose 10 lbs to look svelt in my tankini..... um.....:rolleyes1 still a work in progress............

momtocss

04-29-2008, 10:22 AM

momof4ngls

04-29-2008, 10:36 AM

OK - WTH.... count me in but I can't promise any "grand" gifts! :rotfl: With very little time before our cruise I'll need to find some time to go shopping, but I'm always up for THAT sort of challange!!!
I'll PM you our info. Thanks!

They do NOT need to be grand gifts!!! Just little trinkets. Maybe also something small from the area where you life. Magnets, cheap costume jewelry, candy, pins (or pens), etc. Just something for a little added magic.

This is also NOT just for children, so those of you travelling without children, you need some magic too!!! ;)

momof4ngls

04-29-2008, 10:38 AM

Yay!!:cheer2:

It'll be fun, and the little ones will love finding little treasures deposited in their fish extender!!

Speaking of simple fish extenders, mine is a :laundy: clothespin holder:lmao:

I'm working at Disneyfying it a little, but it may not happen.:sad2:

Oh, I LOVE that idea!!! I'm making mine, but I'd have much rather used something like that that didn't take up a ton of my time. By the time I get everything out to work on mine, I get one step done and have to put it all away again. LOL

momof4ngls

04-29-2008, 10:49 AM

Are we able to book excursions yet? I have tried twice and can't get it to go through.

Two weeks from today at this time, I hope to be on an excursion in Nassau.

Also, thank you for all the welcomes.

I would give Disney a call. I've had excursions booked for ages now and we're first time cruisers. I wonder if there is some hang-up with your reservation or if it's an incompatibility with your computer. Have you tried booking with a different computer? Good luck!

disneyfool_1202

04-29-2008, 12:04 PM

I would give Disney a call. I've had excursions booked for ages now and we're first time cruisers. I wonder if there is some hang-up with your reservation or if it's an incompatibility with your computer. Have you tried booking with a different computer? Good luck!
Ditto- definitely call DCL. My excursions have been booked, modified, cancelled, rebooked.... all in the course of the past few months! I think I have them "finalized" as of now and if one more person in our travel party changes their mind I'm not making any more modifications!!!

disneyfool_1202

04-30-2008, 05:58 AM

Good MORNING cruise buddies! We're very close to SINGLE DIGIT DAYS until we set sail for 4 magical days!! I left work yesterday and hit Kohls (for shirts for DH) and then headed over to AC Moore and got stuff to make my fish extender. I have to tell you I really got into it and I have what I consider a Fan-tab-ulous idea! Hopefully it will come out as good as I see it in my imagination! I also got a TON of goodies to give away - I think I got WAY too many though...... especially since I wanted to get some other stuff too! I think another shopping trip is in order for Sunday. DH wants to cut the grass Sunday so it's a good opportunity for me to take the kids and head to the stores!! Then I'll go home and start packing!!! Man I can't wait to drag the suitcase out this weekend.

My kids are both so little and so into Disney characters (Cars and Princesses are the two biggies in our house) so I decided to start a little Disney Magic of my own, starting this weekend.... Someone at work gave me a set of Mickey Mouse dishes- never been used (they are still in the box) so this Sunday when the kids wake up the table will be set with the plates and a note from the Mouse himself telling them how excited he is that they'll be coming on the ship in a week. Then maybe Wednesday they'll get something from tinkerbell (maybe stickers or something). On the cruise ship they'll wake up each morning to find something left for them by someone - I have PJ's for the first night (I'll lay them out with a note so they are there after dinner), sand toys for the 1st morning at CC, autograph books (anyone know if there's an autograph session on the boat or should I wait until we get to the parks?), and a few other things. I think this is what makes it so magical for me - seeing the reaction of my kids. It makes Disney that much better (and pre-kids I thought that it just couldn't get any better!!) :hug:

Tarabra

04-30-2008, 07:35 AM

Denise, there are tons of autograph opps on the ship. Everytime they have a character pic, they will sign your book. I don't know if we have a character breakfast on the 4 day or not, but they will also sign then, and not sure about the princesses signing at a table. They do that on the 7 day too. We never paid much attention because we were kidless for so long. DD will probably be more into it this time around. They do have the Disney autograph books for sale on the ship too. We dropped ours going into our character breakfast last time unused and figured someone snatched it up. Well, on our way out, we found it at the podium. Very nice of someone. That's a great idea about all the little surprises. Too bad DD usually gets up before me!!! :goodvibes

We hit the stores this past weekend and somehow, DD ended up w/ Princess tennis shoes, princess flipflops and Tinkerbell sandals.:confused3 Probably a heck of a lot cheaper than if I bought that stuff on the ship or parks.

Cruiser1969

04-30-2008, 07:37 AM

My kids are both so little and so into Disney characters (Cars and Princesses are the two biggies in our house) so I decided to start a little Disney Magic of my own, starting this weekend.... Someone at work gave me a set of Mickey Mouse dishes- never been used (they are still in the box) so this Sunday when the kids wake up the table will be set with the plates and a note from the Mouse himself telling them how excited he is that they'll be coming on the ship in a week. Then maybe Wednesday they'll get something from tinkerbell (maybe stickers or something). On the cruise ship they'll wake up each morning to find something left for them by someone - I have PJ's for the first night (I'll lay them out with a note so they are there after dinner), sand toys for the 1st morning at CC, autograph books (anyone know if there's an autograph session on the boat or should I wait until we get to the parks?), and a few other things. I think this is what makes it so magical for me - seeing the reaction of my kids. It makes Disney that much better (and pre-kids I thought that it just couldn't get any better!!) :hug:

That sounds so wonderful!! It is as much fun to plan these things as it is for the kids to experience them!! You've set your family up for such a magical experience:goodvibes

I'm not sure about an autograph session on the 4-day:confused3 , but there were a couple on the 7-day we went on in 2004. Maybe someone can answer that for you!!

princessh

04-30-2008, 08:36 AM

Hey everyone!!! We are getting so close to the cruise!!! I am getting so excited!!!! We leave a week from Friday.

Another suggestion for autographs..... Take your autograph book, photo mat, or pillowcasr to guest services. They will have all the characters sign it for you, and will return it to your stateroom on the last night. We did this and it was great. That way you do not have to carry the autograph book around with you. Just stop by, get your pictures with the characters, and you are on your way! My kids love to sleep on the pillowcases, and I smile everytime I see our picture from DCL with the signatures on the mat!

Heather

Tarabra

04-30-2008, 08:59 AM

My wife thinks we should demand that we be switched to the early seating... I told her the best we can do is put in a request to be switched.

What's my best bet to get switched to the early seating. My kids 7 & 5 will do much better with the early seating..

Also, i saw a thread where someone said you can ask the servers to "speed things up" a bit... I think that a 2hr dinner on a cruise with kids is a bit much personally anway... You think its ok to do this.

Let's see - 9:20 on Nite 2 of the Cruise... Kids are in the club, wife and I have a seat in one of the lounges (is there a piano bar on board), and a bucket of Miller Lites in front of us...

Gary, what we are planning on doing, is either just taking DD3.5 to the club for dinner (she's a very picky eater and will probably just eat before at Pluto's) or taking her there after about 1/2 hour. Usually the meals are about an hour and a half. Even for 2nd seating. It seemed though Before kids we always seemed to be enjoying the company of our tablemates so much that we were one of the last tables to leave, and even then, it wasn't 2 hours. We also brought a mini DVD player for DD which kept her occupied. We love late seating because we're not rushed during the day and it is a great time to enjoy the pools while everyone else is getting ready for early seating. We love being the only ones on deck too. Check out my link below to see how we "owned" the decks!!!:cool1: :thumbsup2 DD is a night owl anyway, although she'll probably be exhausted on the ship. Trouble was, last time, she was still taking naps, but didn't on the ship and then was a crab. Also, I've heard from others that they liked the late seating so the kids were actually awake for the shows prior to dinner. Some say that after dinner, the kids fall asleep during the shows. I don't think you need to "demand" early seating, put your request in and if you get it great. If not, then look at the bright side of late seating.

branv

04-30-2008, 09:29 AM

Hey wanted to warn anyone leaving from the parks Sunday, 5/11 -- a triathlon will be going on. I looked at the course map, and I don't think it will affect you unless you're trying to get somewhere around the Grand Floridian or to the west of the Poly, but thought I'd give a heads up for possible road closures, etc.

CustardTart

04-30-2008, 10:01 AM

branv

04-30-2008, 10:21 AM

Sorry to read about your feline friend, Brandi. :hug: I'm a somewhat concerned at the moment as my Old English Sheepdog seems a little mournful and she's off to kennels on Friday. It's nothing I can put my finger on - I just feel she's not herself... :sad2: Ah well, the people who run the kennels are kind and she'll be with her lifelong Dalmatian buddy so I hope she does OK...

Going to finish my packing this afternoon - not much longer now... :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

You caught me before I deleted it :rotfl: Gushed a little bit and then was embarrassed that I'd done so, but now I'm glad you did so I can give you a big hug back for your own fur baby. :hug: Healthy or not, it's still hard to leave a friend behind.

BTW: love those dogs, they're so CUTE!

Green with envy over your early departure, can't wait to hear the details of the journey :thumbsup2

And on that note of near departures, where the heck are you Yvonne...you've been here from way early on, you can't miss the last countdown!

Tarabra

04-30-2008, 10:39 AM

Brandi,

I was laughing about your bathing suit shopping. I was at my parents' this weekend and my mom subltely said, "Oh, not sure if any of your suits fit since you've had the baby, but here are some of my old ones if you want to try them on!:scared1: :scared1: " It's like that Seinfeld episode where Jerry's dad says he has an extra suit. Anyhow, one of them was from when she went to Hawaii in 1976!!! (yes she was cleaning out drawers) I had always thought she was pleasingly plump, especially by 70's and 80's standards. Well, I thought, I'll show her HOW BIG they are on me. Well...ahem...they fit!!!! Yikes! The one was actually a really nice Eddie Bauer Slimfit suit that I got for like $2 when I used to work there. That one was almost tight. I guess they do start out small and then streeeeetccccchhh. Man talk about depressing. I guess I will just pull out my tankini with the skirt. It is nice, but I feel kinda old in it. :confused3 It's also so thick and bulky. DD has her bathing suit on right now. I had a gift card from Gap kids and got her one there. It's beautiful and a perfect fit. I've already bought her two others that I've had to take back. I would never have paid the Gap price if it weren't for the gift card, but I'm seriously thinking about going back for another in a different color. In her target one, her nipple hangs out and not sure how the crotch is going to fit without undies. (not a good look for a child although we had Brazilians on one cruise and the little girls wore thongs. very disturbing) She's teeny for 3.5 and I hate to buy her a size 2. I'm also trying to get her to break in her new shoes, but she's not a shoe person to begin w/. (takes after her mom) and kicks them off after about 5 minutes.

Getting Psyched!

disneyfool_1202

04-30-2008, 11:20 AM

..... although we had Brazilians on one cruise and the little girls wore thongs. very disturbing...
Oh come on! Are you serious?? That's horrible - especially with all of the perverts in the world today!!!

I like the idea of leaving the books for the characters and I had completely forgotten I'd wanted to buy a photo mat to have it signed. Hmmm..... what size should I get?? Gigantic will be veto's out of the suitcase! (not by me though...)

Cruiser1969

04-30-2008, 11:32 AM

. . .although we had Brazilians on one cruise and the little girls wore thongs.

OMG, when I first read this, I thought you meant you and your DD had Brazilians (as in the waxing procedure . . . not the people!!!)

I just about fell out of my seat!!!!:scared1:

CustardTart

04-30-2008, 11:36 AM

...we had Brazilians on one cruise and the little girls wore thongs. very disturbing...

OMG I was getting all kindsa confused about Brazilian waxes and little girl thongs just then - had to reread many times... :scared1: :scared1: :scared1: As if the proper story isn't bad enough!!! :sad2:

garys12

04-30-2008, 12:43 PM

Gary, what we are planning on doing, is either just taking DD3.5 to the club for dinner (she's a very picky eater and will probably just eat before at Pluto's) or taking her there after about 1/2 hour. Usually the meals are about an hour and a half. Even for 2nd seating. It seemed though Before kids we always seemed to be enjoying the company of our tablemates so much that we were one of the last tables to leave, and even then, it wasn't 2 hours. We also brought a mini DVD player for DD which kept her occupied. We love late seating because we're not rushed during the day and it is a great time to enjoy the pools while everyone else is getting ready for early seating. We love being the only ones on deck too. Check out my link below to see how we "owned" the decks!!!:cool1: :thumbsup2 DD is a night owl anyway, although she'll probably be exhausted on the ship. Trouble was, last time, she was still taking naps, but didn't on the ship and then was a crab. Also, I've heard from others that they liked the late seating so the kids were actually awake for the shows prior to dinner. Some say that after dinner, the kids fall asleep during the shows. I don't think you need to "demand" early seating, put your request in and if you get it great. If not, then look at the bright side of late seating.
Tara -

My kids are looking forward to staying up till midnight, so you won't have the decks to yourselves..LOL

garys12

04-30-2008, 12:45 PM

Tara -

My kids are looking forward to staying up till midnight, so you won't have the decks to yourselves..LOL
Hit the enter button too fast...

I also wanted to ask - can we be put on a waiting list for early dinner prior to the cruise just in case. I am not sure if we are going to change - DW and I are hoping to get a Palo Ress one nite, and one nite the kids like to eat in the clubs anyway.. So its really only 2 nites we have to worry about...

I will be packing tonite.

GS

alecsmom

04-30-2008, 04:41 PM

Hi everybody! Wow how did time go by so fast these past few weeks!!!

Brandi- I don't manage time well, I always intend to get back here - and always something seems to come up. And I have no idea what you posted then deleted about your kitty - but I am sending hugs to you too :hug: because if Karen sent you a hug I'm sure it warranted one. I'm a huge cat lover, have been all my life but currently am cat-less as my dear little Minnie passed in 2006 at the age of 16 - and I have not been able to replace that void - although Alec keeps telling me we need a cat, so maybe one day soon.

ANYWAY on a lighter note - I had to LOL when I read about the brazilian thongs etc - on our last cruise on the Liberty of the Seas in September - there were a bunch of Venezuelan women - a VERY large group - and they ALL wore thongs - every time we turned around there was one. It was crazy!! I was just glad my son and my nephews weren't on that cruise with us - Lord only knows how it would have affected those young boys!!! Hee hee I guess we're just prudish Americans aren't we?? My husband got a kick out of it I'm sure. :laughing:

Okay anyway - tonight I'm going to go home and get all my stuff ready - I have little piles here and there - so now it's down to the wire. I can't believe it's almost here!!!!!!!!! :yay:

branv

04-30-2008, 07:55 PM

YAY, Yvonne!! Nice to see you! Hard to believe after all these months it's so close, so let's do the happy countdown dance :dance3:

I misread the brazilian thing as well :rotfl: I guess it's to be expected, since we're all so aware of getting into a swimsuit soon. ;)

On my honeymoon to Playacar, I knew the area had more European tourists than further north in Cancun. So I knew to expect more topless or thong-wearing women. I was bound and determined to be totally suave and fight my WASP-y prudish tendencies. Yeah....well that went all to heck when the GUY walked by in his thong. Now THERE was someone who needed a brazilian wax. :crazy2:

disneyfool_1202

04-30-2008, 08:05 PM

I guess it's to be expected, since we're all so aware of getting into a swimsuit soon. ;)

OK speaking of that. I got home from work tonight and was changing into my PJ's when I noticed an area of swelling - a LARGE area of swelling, right in my lower abdomen (where my uterus / bladder are). I poked around down there and felt what feels like a good size lemon. :scared1: Now... last November I had a little minor surgery in the area and ended up with a HUGE hematoma. It totally resolved but this bump is in the same area and 6 wks ago I had my gall bladder out and the surgeon went in through the scar on my lower abdomen. But that was 6 wks ago. So I'm getting myself all worked up wondering if it's a tumor, a fibroid, somehow a "slow leak", an abscess - and all I can think of is "oh crap- I have to wear my tankini in less than 2 wks - this HAS to be fixed!" Pretty sad huh that while in the back of my mind I'm thinking "this could be a problem" the forefront concern is how it's going to affect my bathing suite appearance. :rolleyes:

On a good note- our local school system does a lottery for open slots for the public preschool to 'fill in' the open seats with peer / role models. Public preschool is only 'guaranteed' to special ed kids. So I put DD in the lottery for the September 08 school year. There were originally almost 70 kids that applied for the program and then they paired it down to about 30 kids (based on developmental history and other "required" information). They only had 16 slots open. DD's name was the FIRST one pulled from the hat!! :dance3: My baby girl is going to preschool in the fall. I came home and told my husband while she was eating dinner. She heard me, got up from the table, ran and got her Disney Princess backpack AND put on her Ariel dress up shoes and announced that she was ready to go to school. :rotfl: Think she's ready for school? Too bad the kid doesn't want to use the toilet as bad as she wants to go to school! Then I'd be able to put BOTH kids in the kids club!!!

alecsmom

04-30-2008, 08:14 PM

On my honeymoon to Playacar, I knew the area had more European tourists than further north in Cancun. So I knew to expect more topless or thong-wearing women. I was bound and determined to be totally suave and fight my WASP-y prudish tendencies. Yeah....well that went all to heck when the GUY walked by in his thong. Now THERE was someone who needed a brazilian wax. :crazy2:

:lmao: I'm right there with ya sista - why is it the people that have a chance of pulling that look off are never the ones who are wearing that stuff in real life?? We went to St. Martin on our first cruise - Orient Beach - a nude beach - but we had our clothes on of course. One side of the beach was nude, the other was not, so we took a stroll down to the nude side just to check it out - curiousity got the best of both of us, come on, you can't go there and not check it out right?? :rolleyes1 So anyway - OMG I will never forget the horror :scared1: We are talking OLD men and women - letting it ALL hang out. And then - get this - there were two couples there - sort of on the younger side - they were on the cruise with us - and they were butt naked - and we found out they were neighbors back home!!! Now maybe it's just me, but I don't think I'd ever want my neighbors to see me naked - and Lord knows I would NEVER want to see my neighbors naked!!! :scared:

Okay I'm gonna do the happy countdown dance with you - a week from tomorrow we leave :dance3: Alec is outside right now playing on his jungle gym in his Captain Jack Sparrow costume. I keep telling him that thing is going to be just threads by the time we get to the Pirate Party...

Bibbidi

04-30-2008, 08:19 PM

Hey there, just wanted to wish everyone a great cruise! We were supposed to be on this trip with everyone but cancelled for a variety of reasons. Anyway, I was just checking back in and am so excited for your upcoming trip. I hope to read all the details when you all get back from the cruise.

alecsmom

04-30-2008, 08:21 PM

OK speaking of that. I got home from work tonight and was changing into my PJ's when I noticed an area of swelling - a LARGE area of swelling, right in my lower abdomen (where my uterus / bladder are). I poked around down there and felt what feels like a good size lemon. :scared1: Now... last November I had a little minor surgery in the area and ended up with a HUGE hematoma. It totally resolved but this bump is in the same area and 6 wks ago I had my gall bladder out and the surgeon went in through the scar on my lower abdomen. But that was 6 wks ago. So I'm getting myself all worked up wondering if it's a tumor, a fibroid, somehow a "slow leak", an abscess - and all I can think of is "oh crap- I have to wear my tankini in less than 2 wks - this HAS to be fixed!" Pretty sad huh that while in the back of my mind I'm thinking "this could be a problem" the forefront concern is how it's going to affect my bathing suite appearance. :rolleyes:

On a good note- our local school system does a lottery for open slots for the public preschool to 'fill in' the open seats with peer / role models. Public preschool is only 'guaranteed' to special ed kids. So I put DD in the lottery for the September 08 school year. There were originally almost 70 kids that applied for the program and then they paired it down to about 30 kids (based on developmental history and other "required" information). They only had 16 slots open. DD's name was the FIRST one pulled from the hat!! :dance3: My baby girl is going to preschool in the fall. I came home and told my husband while she was eating dinner. She heard me, got up from the table, ran and got her Disney Princess backpack AND put on her Ariel dress up shoes and announced that she was ready to go to school. :rotfl: Think she's ready for school? Too bad the kid doesn't want to use the toilet as bad as she wants to go to school! Then I'd be able to put BOTH kids in the kids club!!!

Oh Denise I hope all is well!! I will send good vibes your way. :goodvibes
Congrats on the preschool deal - that's awesome! My son skipped preschool - stays at home with Grandma - so he will start Kinder this fall - I'm sooo nervous, he's my baby. That's one of the reasons we're doing this Disney trip - it's a Pre-Kinder blowout vacation.

disneyfool_1202

05-01-2008, 05:46 AM

Oh Denise I hope all is well!! I will send good vibes your way. :goodvibes
Thanks for the good vibes. I'm getting quite nervous about this - it's bigger and now looks like someone implanted a softball into my pelvis. Can't call the doctor until 8am so I'm sitting here at work IMPATIENTLY working!!!

Congrats on the preschool deal - that's awesome! My son skipped preschool - stays at home with Grandma - so he will start Kinder this fall - I'm sooo nervous, he's my baby. That's one of the reasons we're doing this Disney trip - it's a Pre-Kinder blowout vacation.
We did preschool w/DS because he was in early intervention and trasnsitioned right in when he turned 3. Luckily, his birthday is mid August, so he was only without services for 2 wks (it was a nice break) and then started right up in September. I was glad that he got to start right with the 1st day of school rather than transition in mid year. I think that's harder for some kids.

As for DD - well, she's as cute as an angel and apparently thinks she's going to get by on her looks alone because the child doesn't retain anything that she's not interested in. She can name every Disney princess, sing songs she enjoys, and "read" books back to me (from memorization) but ask her what color her shirt is and she has no clue - and no desire to know!! She's very clingy and a mamma's girl BIG TIME. She had a really hard time when I went back to work full time (DS could care less) and even when we go to dancing school she's hesitant to leave my side. So I think she needs school, especially for the socialization.

OK....... now 40 minutes until I can call the doctor...... :sick:

Cruiser1969

05-01-2008, 07:25 AM

OK....... now 40 minutes until I can call the doctor...... :sick:

Thinking of you:grouphug: and sending you somepixiedust:

disneyfool_1202

05-01-2008, 07:28 AM

Got an appointment for 11 am so I'll update everyone later. It's frightening how big this thing is. Not to mention worrisome!!!

CustardTart

05-01-2008, 08:06 AM

...I noticed an area of swelling - a LARGE area of swelling, right in my lower abdomen (where my uterus / bladder are). I poked around down there and felt what feels like a good size lemon. :scared1: Now... last November I had a little minor surgery in the area and ended up with a HUGE hematoma. It totally resolved but this bump is in the same area and 6 wks ago I had my gall bladder out and the surgeon went in through the scar on my lower abdomen. But that was 6 wks ago. So I'm getting myself all worked up wondering if it's a tumor, a fibroid, somehow a "slow leak", an abscess - and all I can think of is "oh crap- I have to wear my tankini in less than 2 wks - this HAS to be fixed!" Pretty sad huh that while in the back of my mind I'm thinking "this could be a problem" the forefront concern is how it's going to affect my bathing suite appearance. :rolleyes:

:scared1: OMG Denise! I've only just read this!!! :scared1:

Got an appointment for 11 am so I'll update everyone later. It's frightening how big this thing is. Not to mention worrisome!!!

Good luck at the Docs...

Sending you plenty of pixiedust: and crossing my fingers that it's nothing serious... :hug: :hug: :hug:

Tarabra

05-01-2008, 10:06 AM

Oh boy Denise, I hope all goes well. Just what you need before vacation. Let us know how it goes.

Sorry for all the confusion on the little Brazilian girls. Yea, we were at St. Maarten and the one little girl had a little cover up on, but it didn't totally cover her butt. Her cheek was hanging out and I thought, hmmm, her mom should pull her suit out of her butt.:confused3 Later when we got on the ship and they were swimming, both little girls were indeed wearing thongs. We were tempted to take a pic just because we figured no one would believe us, then we thought, OMG, we could be arrested for something like that. Like I said it was very disturbing. Of course, the mom was hot and was wearing a thong herself, so DH was loving that.

Gary...your kiddos can probably enjoy the decks to themselves at midnight. We'll probably be in bed long before then. :lmao: Although when we're at home, we're always up until midnight, but on the cruises, we're usually in bed around 11 or so. Yea, most of our "owning the deck" time is between 6:30 and 8. When people are either at dinner, the shows, or getting ready for dinner. After seeing the shows many times (before kids) we usually just skipped them and enjoyed our alone time in the pools or on deck. :thumbsup2

momof4ngls

05-01-2008, 12:12 PM

Denise, I'm sitting on pins and needles, waiting to hear about your appointment! I'm praying!

Okay, everybody, last call for the [B]Fish Extender Gift Exchange[B]!! I'll send out the list this evening or tomorrow morning so people can shop over the weekend. It's not a large list, so you'd not have many gifts to buy/make, and think of the fun when you return to your stateroom and find a little surprise in your FE!!! :D

disneyfool_1202

05-01-2008, 12:58 PM

OK - I'm home...for now.
Went to the internal medicine guy who said it felt like something in my abdominal wall - like a huge pocket of fluid. So he sent me for an urgent ultrasound that ruled out anything like a tumor, fibroid, etc... They did see an area of fluid collection right under my pelvic incision (where I had my tummy tuck and the incision through which the surgeon put the scope last month to take out my gall bladder). Since my gall bladder surgery was only 6 wks ago they are thinking that it's some sort of delayed reaction to that - probably an unhealed scar that was somehow "irritated" or triggered over the past few days and has started pooling fluid. So I'm now waiting for the surgeon to call me back because he has to see it and may decide to remove the fluid with a needle. They kept asking me if I've done anything strenuous in the past few days and the only thing I could think of was I lifted my son up 1-2 days ago which is something I don't often do (he's about 45 lbs). That could have pulled open the 'newer' scar tissue just enough that it triggered this whole mess. So my surgeon is currently in surgery and his office is waiting for him to call them back. Once he's out they'll tell me any next steps.

One way or another I WILL be on that boat next week and wearing my tankini!!! (this is the 1st time in my life I can wear anything remotely reminiscent of a normal bathing suit. It was all "fat lady tent suits" before (remember - I've lost almost 200lb in the past 2 yrs). Hell, I may treat you all and wear a thong!! (NOT- although after all of the plastic surgery I've had I can almost get away with it). :laughing:

So here I sit waiting again............. At least I know I'm not dying and this should be an 'easy' fix. If he decides not to remove the fluid and wait it out, I may still have this belly bump on board. :guilty: Not all that attractive to look like I swallowed a baseball and it settled into my pelvis.

Tarabra

05-01-2008, 01:27 PM

Reminder: If you plan on making any cell phone calls from the ship, you will need to contact your provider so they can set you up for international calls. Verizon calls will be $2.50/min so I won't be making any calls if possible, but if necessary, I will be able to make a call.

Denise, glad it's not too bad. I still can't believe you've lost almost 200 lbs. I had a little incident after my c-section w/ lifting my DD 3. Nothing ripped open or fluid or anything, but boy did it pull. Dr. said that as long as it wasn't oozing or red and inflamed, I would be o.k. A little scary. Hope all is well for the trip.

Tara

alecsmom

05-01-2008, 01:47 PM

Denise - I'm glad it's not sounding too serious! I sent a prayer your way this morning, nobody likes to worry about stuff like that - and certainly not right before a dream vacation. I'm sure you'll look just great in your tankini! :thumbsup2

Cruiser1969

05-01-2008, 02:48 PM

Denise: I'm so glad to hear it is something that can be taken care of . . . hopefully, it is sooner than later for you!!:hug:

On the topic of fish extenders, I have traded in my dollarstore clothespin fish extender for a sleeker, more Disney-styled fish extender that I made myself . . .

I purchased two very red fabric placemats (2/$1) and sewed them together. This is the first time I have used my new sewing machine, and anyone who knows me knows that my idea of sewing anything usually involves glue, paper clips, staples and/or tape!!! So . . . the sewing part is a big deal for me!!!

I then stopped off at Home Depot and picked out a few paint chips. I came home and decorated it with the Mickey heads and foam words the kids had from their craft days!

I am very proud of myself for doing this, so I'm really looking forward to getting some fish action on the cruise!!!!!

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c349/Cruiser1969/DSC02060.jpg

garys12

05-01-2008, 03:45 PM

Ok - Here is one for you...

We are in the Castaway Club as former cruisers, but we don't have a card. Do they even have those???

I want to be sure that I am still eligible for the "faster" line, and the gifts, etc. Should I simply make sure I have a copy of my number?

Hey, my kids made door signs the other day... They came out pretty neat... Pirate theme... Guess your going to have to stop by Deck 2 to see them!!!!

Gettin' Ready! Go Phils!

GS

Tarabra

05-01-2008, 04:06 PM

Maria, looks good. I was getting jealous thinking how I wish I could sew, and here you are a novice yourself.

Gary, we've never had CC cards until AFTER we got back from our 6th cruise. They know that you are repeat cruisers. Make sure you get your repeat cruiser gift too. last time we didn't get ours so I asked at the front desk. Here DD wasn't a repeat cruiser, (she was brand new) and that threw off their system.:confused3 We've always just walked up into the line and our gifts were always waiting for us. Don't sweat it!! ;)

disneyfool_1202

05-01-2008, 04:11 PM

Hey, my kids made door signs the other day... They came out pretty neat... Pirate theme... Guess your going to have to stop by Deck 2 to see them!!!!
Gary we're right on deck 2 with ya! :thumbsup2

Cruiser1969

05-01-2008, 05:40 PM

Gary we're right on deck 2 with ya! :thumbsup2

We're deck two, too!!:cool1:

disneyfool_1202

05-01-2008, 07:09 PM

WOO HOO - Party on Deck 2!!
(Sorry - it's been a LONG day).
I'm happy to report after HOURS of icing my poor belly my bump has gone down some. It is very sensitive to touch (even my clothes rubbing up against it hurt). Maybe, just maybe I'll be lucky tomorrow and I won't need to have it drained!! Fingers crossed everyone!

branv

05-01-2008, 07:51 PM

Goodness Denise, what a 24-hours you've had! Between you and Maria, it's like everything's just popping up at the last minute, isn't it? But then doesn't that always seem to be the way it goes right before the few days a year you ABSOLUTELY can't get sick, or need your car to not break down, etc. etc? At least everyone can spend a week's vacation getting over the few weeks prior! :rotfl: Glad things are looking up. :goodvibes

I guess we were lucky -- we received our CC card about a month or so after our first cruise. But on the flip side, we're not going to be with all the cool kids on deck 2 ;)

So I officially have drunk the Disney kool-aid. Tonight we were at Chuy's, a tex-mex place in town, when I became absorbed with the hidden Mickeys on the wall next to me. :rolleyes1 Just what the heck am I going to find to fill my brain with after this vacation is over?

Cruiser1969

05-01-2008, 08:00 PM

So I officially have drunk the Disney kool-aid. Tonight we were at Chuy's, a tex-mex place in town, when I became absorbed with the hidden Mickeys on the wall next to me. :rolleyes1 Just what the heck am I going to find to fill my brain with after this vacation is over?

:idea: You could always book your next trip while onboard!!!!!

Cruiser1969

05-01-2008, 08:05 PM

Cruiser1969

05-01-2008, 08:08 PM

Maria, looks good. I was getting jealous thinking how I wish I could sew, and here you are a novice yourself.

Thank you so much, Tara!! As my first official sewing project, I am quite proud!!

. . . and those who wish to view my fishy "masterpiece" for yourselves can view it on DECK TWO!!!!!! woohoo!!!

branv

05-01-2008, 08:15 PM

:idea: You could always book your next trip while onboard!!!!!

Oh girl you are EVIL, eeeevaaaahhhllllll. :stitch2: :rotfl:

CustardTart

05-02-2008, 04:14 AM

So here I sit waiting again............. At least I know I'm not dying and this should be an 'easy' fix. If he decides not to remove the fluid and wait it out, I may still have this belly bump on board. :guilty: Not all that attractive to look like I swallowed a baseball and it settled into my pelvis.

Phew! Glad to hear it's nothing serious... :hug: :hug: :hug:

CustardTart

05-02-2008, 04:15 AM

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c349/Cruiser1969/DSC02060.jpg

Wow!!! That's brilliant!!! :dance3:

CustardTart

05-02-2008, 04:17 AM

...Just what the heck am I going to find to fill my brain with after this vacation is over?

:idea: You could always book your next trip while onboard!!!!!

What she said... ;) It's the only cure.... :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

CustardTart

05-02-2008, 04:20 AM

Morning! I got that Friday feeling!!! :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: I'm pretty much packed and ready to go - just those last minute chuck-in-a-bag items to take care of. Got a nail appointment this afternoon - I fancy a french manicure BUT managed to break a nail earlier so it could look a little dumb - ah well... ;)

It might be May but I'm currently burning a Christmas Cookie Yankee Candle tart - one of my absolute faves. I received a $15 discount coupon via email the other day and for once I'm going to be able to use the thing!!! Can't wait to hit Florida Mall... :lovestruc

Not long now... :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

alecsmom

05-02-2008, 08:53 AM

Morning! I got that Friday feeling!!! :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

Happy Friday!!! Woo hoo I can't wait!!! :cool1: I've got pretty much all my stuff ready, have to pack Alec's but have to do a lot of washing this weekend. :laundy:

Hope to meet you real soon Karen! We have an ADR at Tony's Town Square the night of the pirate party - at 6:25 p.m. - other than that I have no idea where we'll be that night :confused3 Hope we can run into each other there or on the ship at least.

Anyway everybody have a great weekend!

Tarabra

05-02-2008, 08:56 AM

Are you leaving tomorrow Karen? Lucky girl. I'm starting to get that little bit of pressure feeling. Like I have SOOO much to do. That's when lists help I guess. (I never write out a list except for vacation)

So we aren't having a cruise meet? Anybody up for an informal 3:00 meet at the Promenade lounge? Just for 15 minutes or so before the drill?

Today is cleaning day. How does this house get to be such a mess? We have to worry about cleaning it for my "too neat" brother in law to come and feed the cat. :sad2: Just what I need.

branv

05-02-2008, 09:04 AM

Denise -- how are you feeling today? Things looking up (or in your case, down), if slightly cryogenically frozen from the ice?

Maria -- I can't believe I didn't notice the fish finder! Good job! I've had a sewing machine sitting in a box in my closet since it was given to me as a gift about 6 years ago. I'm askeered of it :scared1: I just know I'd sew myself to something, so I am VERY impressed at your skills :worship:

Morning! I got that Friday feeling!!! :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: I'm pretty much packed and ready to go - just those last minute chuck-in-a-bag items to take care of. Got a nail appointment this afternoon - I fancy a french manicure BUT managed to break a nail earlier so it could look a little dumb - ah well... ;)

It might be May but I'm currently burning a Christmas Cookie Yankee Candle tart - one of my absolute faves. I received a $15 discount coupon via email the other day and for once I'm going to be able to use the thing!!! Can't wait to hit Florida Mall... :lovestruc

Not long now... :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

How exciting! You know it's almost vacation when you've started tripping over your luggage and the pets have tried to root in them.

I can't believe you said that about the nail -- darned if I didn't break two nails messing with our luggage yesterday. I was cussing a blue streak! Who knew packing was so dangerous for the manicure?

I'm of the firm belief that Yankee Candles know no seasons. Burn what makes ya' happy -- I'm a year-long Harvest girl myself. And we know how you love Christmas anyway, why not relive it all year long ;)

Well Karen, since our time zones are all off, I want to be sure to say this on the possibility that I might miss you before you go:

party: BON VOYAGE :jumping1:

It's been a pleasure waiting out all these months with you :hug: Hope you have a safe, speedy trip and we'll see you on the ship!

momof4ngls

05-02-2008, 10:43 AM

So we aren't having a cruise meet? Anybody up for an informal 3:00 meet at the Promenade lounge? Just for 15 minutes or so before the drill?

I think that's what Karen had suggested a while back as well. I am going to try and get there (just not sure about the littles) so if I was wrong about Karen and her daughter being there at that time, I know I can see you! :goodvibes Can children go in the Promenade lounge? Remember, I'm a DCL virgin. :D

garys12

05-02-2008, 10:50 AM

Melanie and I were having breakfast this AM, and she finally admitted that she is excited for the cruise... She asked me if we need autograph books for the kids - so i began to tell her about the deal where you drop off pillowcases, etc. at the desk, and the characters sign them, and they are returned to you..

Low and behold - she's going to make T-Shirts with the Kids to be signed. Then they can wear them to the parks after the Cruise.

How will we get through next week. DD wakes up every morning - only 8 more days to go!!!

GS:cool1:

CustardTart

05-02-2008, 10:57 AM

...Hope to meet you real soon Karen! We have an ADR at Tony's Town Square the night of the pirate party - at 6:25 p.m. - other than that I have no idea where we'll be that night :confused3 Hope we can run into each other there or on the ship at least...
We've got a 5.20pm ADR at LTT - if I see and recognise you, I'll shout!!!

So looking forward to meeting you, Yvonne...

...So we aren't having a cruise meet? Anybody up for an informal 3:00 meet at the Promenade lounge? Just for 15 minutes or so before the drill?

We'll be there Tara!!! :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

...Well Karen, since our time zones are all off, I want to be sure to say this on the possibility that I might miss you before you go:

party: BON VOYAGE :jumping1:

It's been a pleasure waiting out all these months with you :hug: Hope you have a safe, speedy trip and we'll see you on the ship!

Thank you, hon!!! Have a safe trip yourself and I hope to see you soon... :goodvibes :goodvibes :goodvibes

I think that's what Karen had suggested a while back as well. I am going to try and get there (just not sure about the littles) so if I was wrong about Karen and her daughter being there at that time, I know I can see you! :goodvibes Can children go in the Promenade lounge? Remember, I'm a DCL virgin. :D I'm sure I've seen kids in the Promenade Lounge so I hope we'll see you and your wonderful angels there... :thumbsup2

alecsmom

05-02-2008, 11:13 AM

We've got a 5.20pm ADR at LTT - if I see and recognise you, I'll shout!!!

So looking forward to meeting you, Yvonne...

Sounds wonderful! It shouldn't be too hard to recognize me - I'll be the one yelling "STOP IT ALEC!!" pretty much the whole trip :laughing:

We'll try to make it to the Promenade Lounge as well that day. Can't wait!! :yay:

Tarabra

05-02-2008, 11:14 AM

Yep kids can go to the Promenade Lounge. It's just really a big open seating area along the path to Parrot Cay. It's not really a sectioned off bar. We had kids at the last one. DD might be swimming by that point, so I will probably be by myself.

CustardTart

05-02-2008, 12:23 PM

Sounds wonderful! It shouldn't be too hard to recognize me - I'll be the one yelling "STOP IT ALEC!!" pretty much the whole trip :laughing:

We'll try to make it to the Promenade Lounge as well that day. Can't wait!! :yay:

And Sophie'll be the one yelling "LEAVE JACK SPARROW ALONE, MOM!!!" ;) :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl:

Soooo excited now!!!! I just discovered another UK DISer on the main cruise thread who's on our Double Dip too! I love this forum... :goodvibes

I'm back from the beauty salon - nails done (despite my breakages I got my French!), eyebrows shaped and roots tinted!!! Tomorrow I get a free pedi in the airport lounge - so my tootsies will be fresh for Florida!!!

Tarabra

05-02-2008, 01:18 PM

You guys have inspired me! I'm getting a manicure and a pedicure tomorrow. A client got me a gift cert. for one back in June of '06. I had been waiting for a good excuse to go, and this is as good as any. I haven't had either in ages. As far as the eyebrows shaped. Never had that done. I guess my bangs always cover them up anyways. I did get my hair cut yesterday and need to do the old touch up before we go. Can't wait for the sun to lighten my hair.

alecsmom

05-02-2008, 02:09 PM

Tarabra

05-02-2008, 02:20 PM

Yea, I think I mentioned this before but I got my haircut too close to the trip once and complained the whole time about how short my bangs were. One of our tablemates took pics and I was like..."Eeeewww, look at my bangs." He didn't know me from Adam and kept saying, they look fine to me. After looking back, they weren't quite as bad as I remembered them. After yesterday's visit, you can't even tell I got them cut. Better that then too short. I did get about 3 inches off the back.

alecsmom

05-02-2008, 02:31 PM

Oh gosh now you have me thinking - you know, I've had the same hairdresser for YEARS now, and sometimes she gets it really really right - and then there are those times...the bangs too short, turned me BLONDE, etc..... but I keep going back to her. It's like I'd be cheating on her if I went to someone else. Do other women feel that way? I'm very loyal. Oh well it's just better I get it done tomorrow cause my roots are getting pretty bad - hopefully she'll be on her game tomorrow.

momof4ngls

05-02-2008, 04:02 PM

Got the 14 year old's hair cut by my hair dresser Wednesday, then went back to him yesterday for the 13 yr old and myself. Took the boys for haircuts last night. DH is bald, so no haircut needed. LOL Got my brows shaped Wednesday. Should color my hair, but doubt I'll find the time. Still debating having pedis done for the girls and me.

Glad to know it's okay to bring the children to the lounge! Since our arrangements were made for us, I have no idea when we're scheduled to arrive at the port, or if we have a specific time, etc. So I still don't know for sure that I'll be able to make the meeting. DD's Bon Voyage party is tomorrow, and we should find our more specifics then. I can't believe it's all getting so close!!!

princessh

05-02-2008, 04:19 PM

We've got a 5.20pm ADR at LTT - if I see and recognise you, I'll shout!!!

We have a 5:10 ADR at LTT. We hope to meet you then!

I am lokking forward to meeting everyone else at the promanade louge!

disneyfool_1202

05-02-2008, 05:18 PM

Sounds like we're all going to be just gorgeous for our trip! :goodvibes
Well my mani/pedi is scheduled for Thurs evening so look for the woman with the freshly painted nails and toes with scars running up the inside of each arm and a big disfiguring bump in the pelvic region and that's me! :rolleyes:
Seriously- at any activity with bare arms you can recognize me a mile away (if I lift my arms) but scars are much better than the mounds of hanging skin I had a few months ago!
As for my disfiguring bump, it was a wee bit smaller this morning than yesterday and the surgeon tried to drain it today and it was a no go, so he said it's definitely a hematoma (blood based) and not a seroma (serum / water based) so the only way for it to go away (other than surgery with the risk for it to return) is to be patient and use warm compresses to assist my body in reabsorbing it. So I have about 8.5 days of warm compresses to go before my tankini days.
One thing he did say - no heavy lifting for a few weeks. Well no problem there - I only have 10 days worth of "stuff" for 4 people to worry about!! Good thing DH is around to lift the bloody suitcases!!

As for meeting at the Prominade at 3pm I'll try my best. I most likely will have 1 kid in tow, if not the whole family. We'll most likely be luncheoning at Parrot Cay so isn't it just down the hall??

disneyfool_1202

05-02-2008, 06:07 PM

Man I can't wait to do this: http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/7/7_6_4.gif

and this.... http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_1_68.gif

and this.... http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_1_71.gif

and this..... http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_1_69.gif

and this...... http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/7/7_3_207.gif

momof4ngls

05-02-2008, 10:26 PM

I just sent out the FE gift exchange list. There are only 4 families participating, so it will not be too taxing on anybody. ;) It will be fun!

I can't wait to meet you all! Girls and I are doing our toes right now. We're all so excited for the Bon Voyage party tomorrow!

jojo6617

05-03-2008, 02:50 AM

branv

05-03-2008, 10:11 AM

Welcome JoJo, nice to have you onboard!

Yvonne -- I am so the antithesis of loyal to hairdressers. I think the most I've ever seen a stylist was twice in a row. Bad hair luck. I even tried spending more but just found out that didn't mean they knew doowahdiddy :rolleyes: Why can't I find a stylist that can actually look at you and say, "you know, for your face shape, etc, this would be a good style..." I just get a shrug and a butcher job.

Can you believe I broke another frickin' frackin' nail...and while packing again! At this point I'm wondering if I should even bother with a mani. Grrrr... Where's my butler to do all my packing; it's simply too hard on my delicate princess hands. ;)

On that note, I've gone completely overboard (rrrrr...poor choice of words for a cruise, huh?). I was at Costco yesterday. I swear, I only went for toilet paper and bottled water. And somehow I walked out with new luggage :rolleyes1 Now to be fair our old luggage was bought for chump change at Target 7 years ago and has already been repaired with..get this...dental floss (strongest "thread" I had...but my luggage smells minty fresh!)

This trip has really cut a burning path through my bank accounts. ;)

So what day is everything heading out? We fly out the morning of May 8 :dance3: Et tu?

disneyfool_1202

05-03-2008, 11:38 AM

Ditto the welcome to our new cruiser Jo!

Dental floss?? :rotfl2: I'm sorry but that is just TOO funny! You deserve new luggage! And I doubt you are the only one who has cut a path through your bank account- I just spent about $70 on stuff for FE gifts (plus my actual FE that I just made and LOVE). I took a picture but since it's a new camera I don't know where the thingy is to download the photos so I can't post it until tomorrow. It came out exactly like I wanted it to! Not to shabby for last minute Lucy!!

As for leaving- we're not leaving until Sunday a.m. I tried to get DH to fly out a day early but he didn't want to spend the extra hotel day money (not that we've spent a dime on hotel days - we're doing this all on DVC points). We have 5 glorious nights at the VWL after the cruise so I decided to let him have his way on this. It just stinks having to get up at the crack of dawn to get to the airport. We need be out of the house around 5:45 a.m. Since I'm usually the only one up by 5, this is going to be a nightmare. I'll probably board and head straight for an alcoholic beverage. By then they'll all be driving me crazy I'm sure!!!

jojo6617

05-03-2008, 11:44 AM

thanks branv & disneyfool
Where We fly out the morning of May 8 to spending our first 3 nights at lighthouse key spa Hotels & Resorts in kissimmee. how about you? what time do you think it best to turn up at the port?:cloud9:

Cruiser1969

05-03-2008, 03:49 PM

Hi all
I'm also doing this cruise with my husband and son Perry age 10, I have just discovered this site and I really enjoying it, I wish I had discovered it along time ago. I would love to meet up with other families.
Regards
jo

Hi jo!! Welcome!!
I have a DS who is 11 . . . maybe they'll hang out in the Oceaneer's Lab!

I went FE shopping today, and boy did I have fun!! I brought Julia (DD9) with me and we picked out a gift for everyone on our list (OK, 2 gifts!!). With only 12 to shop for, we had some extra fun tryng to match gifts with ages, etc.

Only a haircut scheduled for me this week . . . the same girl I always go to, so let's hope I make out OK!!! I do get a "dud" haircut once in a while, but hopefully this cut is not one of those times. I think I may be the only person I know who doesn't colour her hair. There's some gray up there, but not enough to warrant the high maintenance of colouring, yet!! No pedis or manis either, but maybe DD and I can do some home pedis this week!!

WOW!!! After that paragraph, I sure sound like a looker, huh???:lmao:

One more week before we fly out!!!:cool1:

garys12

05-03-2008, 04:17 PM

:drinking1 Kids and I just watched one of the Disney Ships leave the port via the cam... They were waving at everyone.. My DS thought he saw someone wave back.

Picked up our last needed stuff from Tgt today.

One week left.

G

branv

05-03-2008, 04:42 PM

I'm sitting here listening to my Disney CD of park music...Haunted Mansion is on and I'm totally going to be stuck on that song for the rest of the day ;)

Grim Grinning Ghosts come out to socialiiiizeeee...:rotfl:

Jojo -- we've only been on the one cruise before this, but that was enough for me to know I really am not a "get to the port early" person. I know loads of people love getting there early. So we tried that, still got boarding number 10. Looking around didn't take very long for us, and we found waiting 1.5 hours to be dull. We really just ended up thinking how much we wished we'd slept in :bored: For this trip, we're going to get up, do some laundry (3 days in the parks in May means mucho stinky clothes ;) ). Then we have a breakfast ADR at Kona at the Poly, after which we'll drive to the port. I think we'll get there around 1:30 or 2, and be able to walk right to our rooms. :thumbsup2

disneyfool_1202

05-03-2008, 08:11 PM

We fly in the morning of the 11th, landing at MCO around 11:30 am so after boarding the Disney buses and driving to the port my guess is we'll be there about 1pm and board around 1:30, have lunch and then go find our room (or vice versa).

Very busy day today- went to my BF's daughter's house for a Tastfully Simple party and spent to much on food / spices I'll probably never use (or use infrequently). After that we did some errands while her husband watched all 3 kids (my DH was working). By the time we were done it wasw about 5:15pm so we wanted to pick up Chili's for dinner but of course we had to wait for it to cook so we hit the bar for a while. It was really nice to be out without the kids, without our husbands, and just have a few drinks and have time to chat. Came home all relaxed- until I saw what a mess the kids made. It's been worse in the past but between her son and my two it looked like Toys R Us threw up all over my house!

I plan on spending tomorrow gather things together and starting my packing!!

pamouselover

05-03-2008, 09:46 PM

:goodvibes You are all so close! Have a great time!

Pansy

05-03-2008, 11:31 PM

1 week till we cruise :banana: We are staying in Coco beach the night before, wanted to try something new :thumbsup2 Taking a taxi on Sunday morning to the port. Hope to get there just before 10:00 am for a good boarding pass.

Can't wait to see everyone there :cool1:

momof4ngls

05-04-2008, 02:28 AM

Maria, I don't color my hair often... only when I get a bit tired of the color and want something different, about once every couple of years. Even then it's not to cover the gray, really, but just to brighten things up a bit. :D We also did home pedis. I just couldn't justify spending $90 plus tips on pedis for the three of us. We'd probably just end up with sore toes anyway. ;)

Make a Wish threw DD a Bon Voyage party today at Olive Garden. They brought backpacks for all four children, filled with activities and snacks for the trip, as well as these little special MAW Hot Wheel cars. They also had a packet for DH and me, with our tickets, itinerary, reservation #s, per diem check, etc. It is exciting to finally have those documents in hand!!! We'll be flying in on the 10th, staying the night, and then taking Dis transport to the ship. :D

MAW has been so amazing to us! I'll write on the TR about the Bon Voyage party tomorrow... well later today, after I get a night's sleep... but I'm just too tired right now.

jojo6617

05-04-2008, 11:40 AM

Hi jo!! Welcome!!
I have a DS who is 11 . . . maybe they'll hang out in the Oceaneer's Lab!

I went FE shopping today, and boy did I have fun!! I brought Julia (DD9) with me and we picked out a gift for everyone on our list (OK, 2 gifts!!). With only 12 to shop for, we had some extra fun tryng to match gifts with ages, etc.

Only a haircut scheduled for me this week . . . the same girl I always go to, so let's hope I make out OK!!! I do get a "dud" haircut once in a while, but hopefully this cut is not one of those times. I think I may be the only person I know who doesn't colour her hair. There's some gray up there, but not enough to warrant the high maintenance of colouring, yet!! No pedis or manis either, but maybe DD and I can do some home pedis this week!!

WOW!!! After that paragraph, I sure sound like a looker, huh???:lmao:

One more week before we fly out!!!:cool1:

Thanks cruiser 1969
I'm sure our boys will have lots of fun together in Oceaneer's Lab, last year we hardly seen him, soon as we borded he wanted to join the club and ditch parents, when we did insist on him coming with us he was so grummpy he wanted to be with his new pals having fun. so we got to spend loads of time around the adult pool just chilling it was fab.

We have just finished most of our packing, haircut scheduled for wednesday lunch no need for manis or pedis as I'm a nail technician myself leave for the airport on wednesday night.

geting so excited.:cloud9:

momof4ngls

05-04-2008, 11:43 AM

Thanks cruiser 1969
I'm sure our boys will have lots of fun together in Oceaneer's Lab, last year we hardly seen him, soon as we borded he wanted to join the club and ditch parents, when we did insist on him coming with us he was so grummpy he wanted to be with his new pals having fun. so we got to spend loads of time around the adult pool just chilling it was fab.

We have just finished most of our packing, haircut scheduled for wednesday lunch no need for manis or pedis as I'm a nail technician myself leave for the airport on wednesday night.

geting so excited.:cloud9:

Oh, I sure could have used a nail tech night before last! LOL They look okay, but I know they'd look better if I had a pro do them. I'd just rather save the money for Mickey. :rotfl:

I think I neglected to welcome you to the board! I look forward to getting to know you better!

jojo6617

05-04-2008, 12:13 PM

Hi Melissa thanks

I'm sure it looks fine, dont worry I'll have my kit on me if you need a touch up!!
when do you leave, and do you have a long flight ? 9 to 10 hours for us.
x
jojo

disneyfool_1202

05-04-2008, 12:23 PM

.... do you have a long flight ? 9 to 10 hours for us.
OMG 9-10 hours? I'd need a whole lot of valium for that sort of flight!! I don't know how I'd manage to keep the kids busy that long either?

I am SUCH a slacker today. I had plans to start getting all of our stuff together and it's already after 1:30pm and I've done nothing other than the usual house stuff (laundry, pick up the toys, dishes, clean the kitchen, etc....). DH just went to pick up his mom (she watches the kids) and when he gets back I have to run to the grocery store for a few staples for the week. Lord knows if I'll get anything actually DONE today. Oh well- I always have Fri night and all day Saturday and I work best under pressure!!

jojo6617

05-04-2008, 12:33 PM

dont worry I will be well stocked with DS PSP Ipod it always does the trick

momof4ngls

05-04-2008, 12:44 PM

Hi Melissa thanks

I'm sure it looks fine, dont worry I'll have my kit on me if you need a touch up!!
when do you leave, and do you have a long flight ? 9 to 10 hours for us.
x
jojo

You are so sweet!!

We actually leave here Saturday morning, early, and have a 6 hour flight to Florida. I'm definitely renting the airline's little movie players!! :rotfl:

disneyfool_1202

05-04-2008, 01:07 PM

JoJo where are you flying from? We're coming from MA so only have a 3hr flight.

jojo6617

05-04-2008, 01:23 PM

jojo6617

05-04-2008, 01:33 PM

JoJo where are you flying from? We're coming from MA so only have a 3hr flight.

We live in Newcastle in the north east of england however we are flying from manchester so its 3hr by car first then the dreaded 9/10 hr flight

branv

05-04-2008, 01:42 PM

Standard is 15-20%, and which end of that is closer to "normal" depends from area to area, person to person. TBH, in our little corner of the globe, the only people I know who tip closer to 15% are our older relatives and the ones from more rural areas. If you asked me what was "normal" for us and most of the people we know, I'd tell you 20% (mainly b/c it's just easier to do the math :rotfl: ), with 15% for mediocre service. I know it sounds weird, but it's b/c waitstaff only get a salary of about $2/hr, which is meant to be supplemented by tips. But do what you're comfortable with, and remember you tip on the total before tax is added. :thumbsup2

So at $40, expect to tip about $6-$8, $80 about $12-$16.

Which begs the question, since you're a nail tech -- in the UK, do they tip nail/salon people? Tipping for those services runs the same as with wait staff generally speaking in the U.S. But I know lots of the techs/stylists also have to "pay" for their chair in the salon. How does it work for you guys?

Hope that helps!

momof4ngls

05-04-2008, 01:49 PM

Hope someone can help, I'v been to the US 8 times now but I'm still very unsure about tipping. I never know how much or when to give, as us brits only really give if where very happy with the service. For example if you dine at somewhere such as TGI Fridays and you have a bill for $40.00 what would be an appropriate amount. If we receive a bill for $80.00 from Rain forrest cafe, again what would be appropriate. I understand that 15% is often bandied about but is this the norm?

Food servers in the US usually rely on tips to make up the majority of their income. For that reason, it is typical to tip at least 15%. I normally tip 20% for good-excellent service, and 25% for outstanding service. If the service is absolutely horrible, I'll only tip 10%, but I do tip something, because I have relied on that tip money myself. :D I did a quick Google search and found this page: http://www.tipping.org/tips/us.html which appears to have lots of different categories with tip suggestions. I don't know how appropriate all the tip suggestions are, and can't read through them all right now with a two year old who has decided today is the day to get into everything that does NOT belong to him. But maybe it'll at least give you a good idea. :D

disneyfool_1202

05-04-2008, 02:01 PM

OMG I'm trying to start packing with a 2.5 year old who is driving me BONKERS. I didn't even pull out clothes / suitcases yet. As I've been buying things here and there (toiletries, Disney visors, FE Gifts, etc...). I've amassed bags upon bags in my living room so I pulled them all out from behind the couch and decided to go through them, bag up things in baggies, etc.... DS has been walking around the house in her swim vest wither her Disney visor and sunglasses on and unpacking EVERYTHING I get into a zip loc baggie!! What the hell was I thinking trying to get anything done today?? I'm better off waiting until next Saturday NIGHT when she's ASLEEP!!!!

At least I've got all the laundry done. I still need to do grocery shopping and it's almost 3:30. My SIL is coming by at 4 to pick up the stuff to buy the receital tickets (which of course are being sold on the day before we come home from WDW) and I have no clue what's for dinner!!!

Should I pack "dinner" clothes for our 1st night in our carry on?? Like capris & blouse, sundress for DS, and shirt / khaki's for DH/DS? I'm not sure what time our luggage will hit our stateroom and we have early seating.

momof4ngls

05-04-2008, 02:12 PM

jojo6617

05-04-2008, 02:30 PM

Thanks thats a great help,

I dont actually work in a salon I'm a mobile nail tec.for example if I charge £20.00 for treatment £2.00 would be a good tip often £1.00 sometimes nothing.Thats not because i'm bad at my job its just the norm ( I hope) if someone gave me 25% i would be on :cloud9:
thank again
x
jojo

disneyfool_1202

05-04-2008, 07:01 PM

Well, personally I'd not pack a sundress for DS, but that's just a personal choice. ;) :rotfl:

:lmao: Can you tell I was a wee bit frazzeled today?? The good news: My bump is going DOWN!!! I no longer look like a man taping my winkie to hide it! (seriously- that's what I felt like - the damn thing was just sticking out in a not so good way). It may not be completely gone by next week and there is the potential for a relapse, but I'm hoping and praying to be able to wear my bathing suit and not look like I have a growth protruding from my pelvic region!!

I also found the kids pirate costumes from Halloween (well DD had a pirate costume but decided to dress up as Cinderella so she never wore it). So those are 'packed'. I use the term 'packed' very loosely here because as of this moment nothing has come close to finding itself in or remotely close to a suitcase. In baggies- yes, suitcase, no. I think I'm going to hit Walgreens and buy some of those vaccume bags to pack DD's princess dress and Minnie Mouse dress because they are sort of poofy and will have sparkles on everything else that come remotely close to them in the luggage.

One week from this moment I'll be sitting in the W.D. Theater waiting with the show to start!!!! YIPPEE!!!

disneyfool_1202

05-05-2008, 09:59 AM

Where is everyone this morning?? Have you all gone to Florida early and left me here by myself for the next 6 days? :confused3

Tarabra

05-05-2008, 10:50 AM

I'm still here!! We're leaving early Weds. morning, so today is packing day. Getting the paperwork, birth cert, etc. together. DH did most of the laundry yesterday, so now I have to fold it and just start packing it instead of putting it away.

Get this...I got an email on Sat. from someone coming in from out of state. (Actually she is originally from England and her name is Karen. What a coincidence. ) She will be looking for houses from $450k - $550k and will only be in town THIS weekend. Auuuuggggghhhh!!!! I can't believe it. I'll have to split my commission with someone else. My AZ people are still waiting on an appraisal and are hoping it comes in way under what our contract is for. The sellers just bought it a year ago and are asking $95k more. We got them down $35k, but still. This is a declining market folks!! I also got another buyer on Friday and have been running around w/ him. Where were these people in Jan. and Feb?? Hopefully it will be just as busy when I get back. That would be great.

Well, I can't spend too much time online today. Too much to do.

Tara

Tarabra

05-05-2008, 03:09 PM

I'm an idiot!!!! I went to pull out the birth certificates. Whew, I was a day early!! Well...I can't find one for my son. I knew I had the one from the hospital and his social security number, but his actual birth certificate from the County was not there. I don't remember if I ordered it or not. With my daughter, somehow, I had a form or something, but I don't remember doing that for Jonah. Uggghh! They won't take the hospital certificate, even w/ the footprints. So first thing tomorrow I need to run down and get it. Like I don't have a ton of other things to do. I noticed it today around 3:50 and the place closes at 4:30. Grrrrr..... I did get a bunch packed and tried on some clothes, cursed my children for letting nothing fit anymore, (kidding), and I am getting ready to do the laundry. We are on a shared well, (yes, I know... how primitive...we live in a lake community and that's the way it is here) and we were without water for the afternoon. Sometimes the circuit is overloaded or something. So, gotta run.

branv

05-06-2008, 12:19 AM

The good news: My bump is going DOWN!!!

pack DD's princess dress and Minnie Mouse dress because they are sort of poofy and will have sparkles on everything else that come remotely close to them in the luggage.

YAY! I'm sure it will be all better by the trip :goodvibes I had to lol about the sparkles...don't you almost wish you could be that age again just so you could get away with wearing something sparkly like that? ;)

I'm an idiot!!!! I went to pull out the birth certificates. Whew, I was a day early!! Well...I can't find one for my son. I knew I had the one from the hospital and his social security number, but his actual birth certificate from the County was not there. I don't remember if I ordered it or not. With my daughter, somehow, I had a form or something, but I don't remember doing that for Jonah. Uggghh! They won't take the hospital certificate, even w/ the footprints. So first thing tomorrow I need to run down and get it. Like I don't have a ton of other things to do. I noticed it today around 3:50 and the place closes at 4:30. Grrrrr..... I did get a bunch packed and tried on some clothes, cursed my children for letting nothing fit anymore, (kidding), and I am getting ready to do the laundry. We are on a shared well, (yes, I know... how primitive...we live in a lake community and that's the way it is here) and we were without water for the afternoon. Sometimes the circuit is overloaded or something. So, gotta run.

Oh man, I would have PLOTZED! Full out Gone With the Wind type fluttering vapors. Glad you can at least get a copy in your area. My poor sis had to drive four hours to get hers, can you imagine?

Well everything has come to a crashing halt here. Since DH's uncle passed away on Sunday, we are taking an unexpected trip to Houston Wednesday for the funeral. We wanted to get in Tuesday for the viewing as well, but apparently there is some kind of HUGE convention and we can't find a single hotel room for an 80-mile radius...something about 70K+ attendees :scared1: Soooo, we'll be getting up around 4 a.m. to get to the funeral by 10 am, then turning around and arriving back home around 8 pm, before hauling to get everything finished up before bedtime since have to be up at 5 am for our flight the next day. We are going to be some tired little patoots! I've been speeding into a frenzy everything I'd originally planned to do over 3 days. :laundy: But we're at least glad that we get to go in for the service. DH's uncle had heart issues, but he was only 60, so it's still kind of stunning. :sad2:

disneyfool_1202

05-06-2008, 06:38 AM

:sad2: DH's uncle had heart issues, but he was only 60, so it's still kind of stunning.
So sad - I'm sorry to hear about DH's uncle. My dad's family has a STRONG hitory of heart disease- all of his brothers in their 50's. My dad is the only one left and the healthiest of the bunch but even he's had a heart attack and is on meds including nitro for occasional angina. I sent all of my "in case of an emergency" how to reach me email to my cousin. I hate that I have to consider that sort of thing before any type of vacation.

On another note- What is going on with everyone this week??? What happened to "the calm before the storm - we have it in reverse! Family deaths days before vacation. A mysterious bump growing in my abdomen. Missing birth certificates. It doesn't stop there folks.......... DS has had a cough for almost 2 wks which we attributed to his allergies (it's that time of year) but could it settle down? Oh no... yesterday on my way home from work DH calls and tells me DS's cough sounds croupy - I get home and he has a temp of 100.6 and sounds HORRIBLE. So off to the doctor's we go (at 6:30pm...). On my way my BF, who is coming on this trip with her family, calls me on the way to her son's doctor's office where he is sitting waiting to have stitches put into his forhead! Apparently he was playing with a neighbor who was swinging a golf club and WHAM - right above his eye. They closed it with surgical glue and derma-bond and are hoping it stays closed- if it opens up again within the next 24-48 hours he'll need 8 stitches above his eye.
Then back to DS - I got him to the doctor's where he was diagnosed with a sinus infection.... so he's on amoxicillin and should be feeling much better before we cruise. Hopefully DD will remain healthy (no signs of getting sick but with our luck she'll come down with something on Saturday....... :sad2:

I SO need this vacation!!

garys12

05-06-2008, 08:54 AM

My Son who is 5 had the best line this morning at breakfast....He said "Wouldn't it be great, if we can just wake up tomorrow morning and it would be Saturday?" "Then we can get on the plane to Disney."

One thing is that getting the kids out of bed and ready for school this week has been a dream since I keep telling them - no fighting with me when I wake you up... You wont have to wake up for School next week on OUR CRUISE!

We will be at the Cocoa Beach Hilton on Saturday - probably at the Port by 11:30 on Sunday.

GS

momof4ngls

05-06-2008, 01:34 PM

Cruiser1969

05-06-2008, 01:44 PM

In our trip information from Make a Wish, they suggested that on the last day of the cruise, we head to Downtown Disney if we have time. I have no clue what Downtown Disney is. Can somebody please enlighten me on what is there, if we pay a fee for entrance, etc. Is there some way to find out what is going on there that week? How late is it open (I'm wondering if we should consider it the night before the cruise as well)?

If you like to shop, you'll like DD. There is the huge World of Disney store which keeps me occupied for hours!!!

For families, DD is basically a restaurant and shopping area. There is no fee to get in. It's a good way to kill some time if you don't want to pay to get into a park. Also, in the DD area is Cirque de Soleil ($$) Disney Quest ($$), Pleasure Isand (nightlife - $$), and an AMC movie theatre ($$). Of course, all of these require admission.

I'm sure others will add their perpective of DD for you.:goodvibes

Cruiser1969

05-06-2008, 01:46 PM

WOW!! Seems like a lot is going on the week before the big cruise!!

I hope that we all find ourselves healthy and happy once we board our floating paradise five days from now!!!!:goodvibes

Tarabra

05-06-2008, 02:06 PM

Let me add to the misery. Well, remember I mentioned my big deal on the $616k house? Well, the appraisal came in 30k under. We're waiting to hear back from the seller. My buyer's like, well, I'll have to come back up to look for something else. Can someone from your office take me around? So now I have over a million dollars in sales floating around while I'm gone. I had another deal fall apart this week because the sellers didn't have enough to close. They are still working on finding some cash. I'm gonna scream. I had weeks and weeks this winter with not one phone call. Unbelieveable. I did write an offer last night, but still waiting to hear back on that one. It's full price, so shouldn't be a problem.

I got the birth certificate. No big deal. Although once again stopped at Target and spent another $50k. Gotta finish packing.

T

momof4ngls

05-06-2008, 02:06 PM

Thank you for the info, Maria!

Branv, so sorry about your loss!! I hope things go as well as possible.

Tarabra

05-06-2008, 08:10 PM

Well, we're off first thing in the morning. I've been running all day. I can't wait to get out of here. See ya on Sunday at 3:00.

Tara

momof4ngls

05-06-2008, 08:21 PM

Tara, I'm sorry about the troubles with the house sales. I hope it all works out well. Have a wonderful trip! See ya Sunday. :cool1:

alecsmom

05-06-2008, 09:08 PM

I just wanted to wish everyone a safe and wonderful journey to the cruise. It's been fun chatting with everyone and it will be nice to meet you guys. :grouphug:

Brandi - I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. :hug: Hope all goes well and it's been so much fun getting to know you. If I see you on the ship - let's have a margarita together!! :drinking:

disneyfool_1202

05-07-2008, 05:48 AM

Bon Voyage to those of you heading out between now and Sunday a.m. (that would be my family - yes I'm the slacker in the group....) ;)

jojo6617

05-07-2008, 06:50 AM

where all packed and ready to go, just going to pick ds up from school now hope everyone has a safe trip out
c u soon
jojo

branv

05-07-2008, 07:36 PM

Hi everyone! We're back from Houston and though I'm in the middle of doing about 4 things at once, I had to jump on here and say HASTA LUEGO!!! I don't think I'll have time to post in the morning, so I wanted to say I hope you all have happy and safe journeys, and we'll see you on the ship.

Yvonne -- thanks and you're on! :drinking1 :rotfl:

Pansy

05-08-2008, 01:25 PM

Just checked and Palo is still open even for brunch for those of you who want to get in.

We haven't even started packing yet :guilty: guess we better get in gear since we fly out Saturday.

disneyfool_1202

05-08-2008, 06:10 PM

We haven't even started packing yet :guilty: guess we better get in gear since we fly out Saturday.
You are NOT alone! We fly out 1st thing Sun a.m. and I haven't even opened a suitcase!!

pamouselover

05-09-2008, 07:25 AM

Bye everyone, Have a wonderful time and a great mothers day!

disneyfool_1202

05-09-2008, 07:41 AM

OMG it is KILLING me to sit here at work all day with NOTHING to do but think about everything I have to do to get ready for Sunday! I need lots of :wizard: for 3pm to get here so I can hit the road!!!!

momtocss

05-09-2008, 10:30 AM

I'm at work until 2:30 today. We fly out tomorrow, and I don't even have the suitcases brought up from the basement yet. DD and I also have to get pedicures sometime today. I work well under pressure and have so much to look foward to, I know it will be fine!

pallamb

05-09-2008, 10:46 AM

Still not packed. We are leaving Saturday morning at 5:00 am for the airport. I took today off from work to get ready. We'll be going to Bomas for dinner. Can't wait:yay:

Does anyone know if you can use your Disney Rewards Card to pay for your expenses on the ship, like excursions, Palos, liquor drinks, souveniers, etc. ? If so, do you register the card at check in like you would your credit card?

:rockband: BON VOYAGE EVERYBODY party:

garys12

05-10-2008, 08:55 AM

Heading to PHL airport now.....Its TIME! See anyone who is left home there tomorrow!!!!!

pamouselover

05-10-2008, 10:47 AM

I should be on that plane!!!!!!!!!!!!:sad1:

Heading to PHL airport now.....Its TIME! See anyone who is left home there tomorrow!!!!!

disneyfool_1202

05-10-2008, 04:14 PM

Heading to PHL airport now.....Its TIME! See anyone who is left home there tomorrow!!!!!
That would be ME!! I just finished packing, we're eating a pizza and I want nothing more than to crawl into bed right now - I'm exhausted!!
Got to get up at 4:30 a.m. to get everyone up and out on time for our morning flight!

mandymouse

05-11-2008, 01:24 AM

Hi there

My friend Karen (CustardTart) is sailing with you all today. I just wanted to say, that I hope you all have a fantastic time. I'll be sailing on the last Double Dip Cruise in August, and I can't wait to hear how you all get on with this cruise

Have fun

mandymouse

05-11-2008, 01:25 AM

http://www.fireworksarcade.co.uk/images/mothers-day-gift.jpg

Happy Mother's Day Everyone

I hope you all have a lovely day and get lots of nice pressies

mandymouse

05-11-2008, 04:24 PM

Hey Everyone

I hope you had a great sailaway. I was watching you on the webcams

Sorry the Port Canaveral webcam wasn't working, but here's a few for you

From the CocoaBeach webcam

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v491/MMM120/ship1.jpg

From twopalms

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v491/MMM120/ship2.jpg

I'll try and capture a piccie of you in Nassau on Tuesday

Have a fab cruise everyone

mandymouse

05-13-2008, 08:16 AM

It's looking lovely in Nassau today - have a great time everyone :thumbsup2

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v491/MMM120/nassaudcl.jpg

pamouselover

05-13-2008, 09:41 PM

OMG I am so jealous!

mandymouse

05-15-2008, 05:49 AM

I see you're all back at Port Canaveral now, I hope you've had a great Cruise

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v491/MMM120/pcdcl.jpg

Karen, I can't wait to hear all about it :)

pamouselover

05-15-2008, 09:04 AM

boy that was quick!

DAD AT DISNEY

05-15-2008, 08:18 PM

We had a great time on our May 11-15 cruise. Did anyone have any problems with getting seasick last night? My two kids created quite a mess about 1 am last night from the boat rocking so much. We had no problems the first three nights but that boat was hauling a$$ last night to get back to PC.

momtocss

05-15-2008, 08:29 PM

Our kids slept through the rocking last night. DH and I felt like we were on an amusement park ride. We had to close both bathroom doors, lock the safe, and close the closet doors. I have been at home now for over three hours after driving to and flying out of Orlando and still feel like I am on the ship.

branv

05-16-2008, 07:17 AM

Hi everyone! What a GREAT cruise! So here we are, a little burned, very rested, with a smoking credit card and still feeling the motion of the ocean on my couch. AWESOME trip. We were able to do a lot more around the ship than we did last time, and had a blast! I even danced once, and I NEVER dance. What happens on the ocean, stays on the ocean. I just hope no one had a video camera. The parks were a little too intensely HOT and crowded for us to enjoy them as much as we would have liked, but we loved WL, and I don't think I've ever seen the CM's be as nice and helpful as I have on this trip. Really felt that pixie dust everytime I talked to one of them. :goodvibes

I was admittedly nervous on our first day on the cruise b/c it just seemed like a bunch of little things were going wrong, but after those little hiccups it was smooth sailing! Relatively speaking when I say smooth, b/c with that wind I finally just gave up pretending to have nice hair and went with a combination of wind-funnel/ psycho chic hair-do. :rotfl: I honestly wondered if we were going to get into CC with all that wind, and the way the waves were crashing over the rocks. So I just want to give a shout-out and props to the captain for getting us there. :thumbsup2 He must have REALLY been using those engines, b/c we were in the aft area over that equipment and our bed and room started shaking like a massive earthquake when he was approaching CC. Kinda cool actually, like the worlds most intense massage chair.

So glad to meet those of you I ran into. And sorry I missed some of you. I actually saw a number of people, but I was always up on another deck and saw you walk by down below. Yvonne -- I caught a glimpse of you guys down on deck 9 during the pirate party! Your guys costume looked so cute!

I look very much forward to hearing how it went for everyone!

P.S. YES about the rocking on the last night. I even got up around midnight to check the wave height on the tv, and it was only 1-4 feet, some of the lowest of our cruise. What I was thinking is that perhaps they turned the stabilizers off. I never got sick sick, but it was NOT a pleasant last night, with closet door and drawers slamming open then shut, things rolling around on the desk, the crazy creaking/popping, as well as the very clear sounds of the person in the next room horking up a lung, I don't think either of us slept a wink. I was doing this to my motion patch :worship: I may build it a shrine.

P.S.S. Did anyone else see that huge lumbering strange boy get into the adult pool with his snorkel mask as soon as all the college girls in their bikinis jumped in? You should have seen how high DH's eyebrows shot. :rotfl: Creeeeeepy. (He also tried to cut in front of me at the excursion desk, but I got a little scrappy with him and mumbling, off he trudged, I'm guessing, to hide in the ladies room with a cell phone camera). One thing I love about travel -- you get equal enjoyment meeting the nice people and witnessing the weird people (though I'm well aware that sometimes I'm the "weird" people)

SpfAkf

05-16-2008, 03:45 PM

I'm so glad everyone had a great cruise dispite the rocking on the last night and being over soooo quick. I'm cruising on the 4 night Wonder also on May 25 this month and was wondering if anyone had the new navigators with the double castaway cay itinerary. And if so, would you mind posting them for myself and everyone to view for up coming trips? Thank you very much!

Stephen

alecsmom

05-16-2008, 09:04 PM

What a great trip!! I am so sad to be home right now!! Alec is just like me - he keeps saying "Mama - I'm sad that we had to come home!" and yesterday he kept saying "It's a SAD day!!"

It all happened too quick, that's for sure! But boy what a wonderful time. We had so much fun at the parks - but you're right Brandi - it was HOT - especially on Saturday when we went to Animal Kingdom. But the AKL was so amazing, so beautiful, so fun, I fell in love the minute we stepped through the doors. :love: We had an awesome savannah view, it couldn't have gotten any better.

And what a surprise for Alec to go on the cruise - he fell asleep on the bus on the way to the port - and when he woke up and he realized where we were - he said "Mama we got on the wrong bus!!" It was so precious. He was sooooooo thrilled to be continuing his vacation.

I will try to post some pictures in the next few days - would you believe we took almost 500 pictures? :laughing: My hubby is definitely a shutterbug.

Dang it Brandi - I wish I had gotten to see you! You probably didn't see us at our best that night - thanks for the nice words - he was a cutie in his costume but boy was he a little devil that night. He was on overdrive - too much sugar, caffeine, sun, swimming, no nap - all added up to a little demon child. He didn't want to participate in the pirate festivities - and my husband put him on his shoulders so he could see what was going on when it started - and he proceeded to start kicking to get down and kicked DH by accident - and that was it - we all lost it. NOT a good night!! I took him back to the room - but I figured he was just super tired because as soon as his head hit the pillow he was out. Can't blame the little guy too much for being on vacation overload. But other than that night, all was well. Unfortunately we missed the fireworks. Oh well, guess we'll just have to go back again someday to see what we missed. :rolleyes1

Anyway hope everyone had a great cruise. The last night was something else - my DH and I have been on 5 cruises before this one - and we have NEVER experienced such rocking and rolling like we did. DH was convinced we were tipping over. I was too tired to care, it actually rocked me to sleep. My DS slept through the entire thing, didn't affect him one bit.

Well back to reality now. Boy doesn't that suck. :sad1:

branv

05-17-2008, 09:14 AM

LOL, Don't worry Yvonne, I didn't see any meltdown, just you guys smiling at the stage before the crowd moved in. Besides, between the parks and the cruise, the heat and the fun, I saw so many tantrums I don't think anything he did would have looked remotely out of the ordinary :rotfl: Actually, the worst meltdown I saw that night was between a husband and wife behind me on deck 10 when I heard her shout, "That's it! Don't even think about it! I swear to god if you do, that is the LAST STRAW and I AM NOT KIDDING!" I kept wondering what he was about to do and what came after the last straw? But I'm nosey that way ;)

BTW: you've been on the RCCL bohemoth ship, and other ships, where do you think DCL stands now? Would love some comparison as we're thinking about trying that ship one day.

So did anyone hear what happened on the Mariner on Sunday? :confused3 I felt so badly when I saw the emergency vehicles pull up, but I suppose if something was going to happen to someone it was far better that it happen then rather than at sea or in a foreign port. Still though, just as you start your vacation...I hope the person is okay.

pamouselover

05-17-2008, 10:00 PM

:goodvibes So glad you all had a wonderful time. Please get busy writting up a trip reports and posting pictures.

momof4ngls

05-17-2008, 10:12 PM

:goodvibes So glad you all had a wonderful time. Please get busy writting up a trip reports and posting pictures.

I'm trying to get my tr written up, but between the ambulance trip to the ER yesterday because 4 yr old DS couldn't breathe, and then trip to acute care today for the two teen girls with strep, I am just exhausted and can't think well. DS's asthma attack was triggered by an incident on ship when the exhaust fumes/smoke was blown into the intake valve and then circulated through the ship. He was doing poorly, but able to function and still have fun Wednesday, started getting worse Thursday on flight home, including fever of 102, then seemed to be doing better yesterday until he awoke from a nap unable to get any air in or out. It was very frightening and even had the paramedic frightened, which is not great for relieving mom's nerves, let me tell you!!

I don't regret going on the cruise, and I know the exhaust thing was a fluke, but I wish they had just fessed up from the beginning instead of sending somebody down with air freshener, and saying that somebody must be smoking in their stateroom! It finally took a group of us on our floor gathering together and calling again from one of the main phones to get the truth out of them.

Oh, and we won't ever do a dd again, unless it is a longer cruise that still allows us at sea days. The girls went to CC the second day, but not for long, and the rest of us didn't even step foot on the island that second time.

garys12

05-18-2008, 02:59 PM

Well, we are back after the cruise and 3 days at Riverside. What a great trip...

My wife and I did not get to enjoy many of the adult activities however we all had a ball. My DD sang Karakoke every nite, and my 5 YO DS even got into the act. Pikey had him wearing an afro wig one nite at the family karakoe.

Saw many FE's around, and I left a note in one of them (the red twin tiered one, sorry but I am so bad with screen names.) Hey, we got your magnet, so thanks!...

I am going to try to post a TR this week. So bear with me.

As I told the kids on the plane this AM - "Now Back to the Real World - Work, School, etc.

Gary:banana: :thumbsup2

CustardTart

05-18-2008, 06:42 PM

Hi everyone! :wave:

We got back to life and reality on Friday morning after an uneventful 8 hour flight. Unfortunately I've contracted an awful cough/cold so feel less than brilliant at the moment. However I'd just like to say how fab it was to meet with some of you - Melissa and Brandi it was wonderful to chat with you guys, albeit briefly. And Jo it was an absolute pleasure to meet you and your family - please join us on the UK Community Board. Did you manage to get that upgrade?? If I'd known you were a nail technician I would probably have begged you to repair my french manicure which had come a cropper during our stay at Wilderness Lodge... ;) Sorry I didn't get to meet you, Yvonne - it was all rather hectic tho' so hardly surprising... :goodvibes

The cruise was lovely - we liked the suite tho' TBH we wouldn't bother with that category again as I much preferred the one DH and I stayed in last September. Ah well, you live and learn...

One of the highlight's for us was discovering they serve the much-lauded Rose Regale sparkling wine onboard! :woohoo: So I got to enjoy that AND the fab Boony Doon Framboise in Palo's on our first night - talk about heaven... :cloud9:

I stayed in the suite on the first Castaway Cay day as my skin decided to have an unprecedented toxic freakout (I have chronic psoriasis and it can wreak havoc on occasion!) and I needed to apply soothing cream. Due to the high winds, our parasailing was cancelled which was a relief as it meant we weren't out of pocket. Due to my skin issues, I also forfeited our Couple Choice Spa Villas appointment - fortunately they have a 24 hour cancellation policy and DH was able to re-schedule himself for a Hot Stones massage which he really enjoyed - bless him... :lovestruc

We ate in the dining rooms for the final two nights and were delighted to discover we'd been allocated a table for just the 3 of us - it made for a very relaxing dining experience! :thumbsup2 I found the meals took much less time than we'd previously experienced on the Magic so we had plenty of time to pop to Diversions for a nightcap or two... ;)

DD was the only one who got off the Wonder in Nassau - she made it back in plenty of time to join us at the wine-tasting seminar in Palo's and have some fun there tho' I was a little disappointed the sommelier didn't open the champagne with a sword! Maybe the insurance can't/won't cover it anymore..? :confused3

Loved the Palo's brunch on our penultimate day. We had a great gastronomic time plus DH and I were delighted to share the experience with Sophie. Castaway Cay was lovely (as were the Konk Koolers on Serenity Bay) and we all whiled away a few hours here before heading back to the ship. I shopped a little en-route and discovered a fab Double Dip pin in the store which was probably my major purchase of the vacation...

Anyway, enough of my ramblings! I really should go to bed now so goodnight all... :cool2:

CustardTart

05-18-2008, 06:46 PM

I'm trying to get my tr written up, but between the ambulance trip to the ER yesterday because 4 yr old DS couldn't breathe, and then trip to acute care today for the two teen girls with strep, I am just exhausted and can't think well. DS's asthma attack was triggered by an incident on ship when the exhaust fumes/smoke was blown into the intake valve and then circulated through the ship. He was doing poorly, but able to function and still have fun Wednesday, started getting worse Thursday on flight home, including fever of 102, then seemed to be doing better yesterday until he awoke from a nap unable to get any air in or out. It was very frightening and even had the paramedic frightened, which is not great for relieving mom's nerves, let me tell you!!

I don't regret going on the cruise, and I know the exhaust thing was a fluke, but I wish they had just fessed up from the beginning instead of sending somebody down with air freshener, and saying that somebody must be smoking in their stateroom! It finally took a group of us on our floor gathering together and calling again from one of the main phones to get the truth out of them.

Oh, and we won't ever do a dd again, unless it is a longer cruise that still allows us at sea days. The girls went to CC the second day, but not for long, and the rest of us didn't even step foot on the island that second time.

OMG Melissa! How awful for you! Sounds like you guys had/are having a tough time!! Sending you :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: and pixiedust: !!! Hope everyone is well soon... :hug: :hug: :hug:

Best wishes,
Karenxxx

PS: It was lovely to meet you...

njdisneymomof2

05-19-2008, 07:10 AM

MandyMouse - Thanks for the great pictures. We had a wonderful cruise! We really appreciate the pictures.

mandymouse

05-19-2008, 07:16 AM

MandyMouse - Thanks for the great pictures. We had a wonderful cruise! We really appreciate the pictures.

No problem :thumbsup2 Glad you like them

I hope you all had a great time :)

mandymouse

05-19-2008, 07:25 AM

The cruise was lovely - we liked the suite tho' TBH we wouldn't bother with that category again as I much preferred the one DH and I stayed in last September. Ah well, you live and learn...

One of the highlight's for us was discovering they serve the much-lauded Rose Regale sparkling wine onboard! :woohoo: So I got to enjoy that AND the fab Boony Doon Framboise in Palo's on our first night - talk about heaven... :cloud9:

I stayed in the suite on the first Castaway Cay day as my skin decided to have an unprecedented toxic freakout (I have chronic psoriasis and it can wreak havoc on occasion!) and I needed to apply soothing cream. Due to the high winds, our parasailing was cancelled which was a relief as it meant we weren't out of pocket. Due to my skin issues, I also forfeited our Couple Choice Spa Villas appointment - fortunately they have a 24 hour cancellation policy and DH was able to re-schedule himself for a Hot Stones massage which he really enjoyed - bless him... :lovestruc

We ate in the dining rooms for the final two nights and were delighted to discover we'd been allocated a table for just the 3 of us - it made for a very relaxing dining experience! :thumbsup2 I found the meals took much less time than we'd previously experienced on the Magic so we had plenty of time to pop to Diversions for a nightcap or two... ;)

DD was the only one who got off the Wonder in Nassau - she made it back in plenty of time to join us at the wine-tasting seminar in Palo's and have some fun there tho' I was a little disappointed the sommelier didn't open the champagne with a sword! Maybe the insurance can't/won't cover it anymore..? :confused3

Loved the Palo's brunch on our penultimate day. We had a great gastronomic time plus DH and I were delighted to share the experience with Sophie. Castaway Cay was lovely (as were the Konk Koolers on Serenity Bay) and we all whiled away a few hours here before heading back to the ship. I shopped a little en-route and discovered a fab Double Dip pin in the store which was probably my major purchase of the vacation...

Anyway, enough of my ramblings! I really should go to bed now so goodnight all... :cool2:

Hey Karen

I hope you're feeling a bit better today

So what did you think of the Roy Disney suite ? Why wouldn't you bother staying there again ? Was your last room a Cat. 3 ?

Sorry that your skin flarred up for the first Castaway Cay day, but thank goodness you got there on the second day

It sounds like you had a great time, but you didn't mention whether you and hubby were playing Scrabble this time :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

I've seen a pic of the DD pin, I can't wait to get one

So how long is it till your Mexican Cruise ? It'll be here before you know it :thumbsup2

Looking forward to your trippie :thumbsup2

Tarabra

05-19-2008, 08:39 AM

Hey guys! Yes, we had a ball. I haven't been able to get on much with catching up on everything and DH still being on vacation. Um....he was teasing the heck out of me because I said something about a "CM" He's like...WHAT IS A "CM?" He said that just proves I spend too much time on here!!!:lmao: :goodvibes It was great meeting Brandi, Heather and Denise. I looked high and low for everyone else, to no avail. I'll fill in more later, but just wanted to check in.

garys12

05-19-2008, 03:43 PM

I wanted to post one photo of my DD in that dress I told you about.

http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2143261220048

disneyfool_1202

05-21-2008, 02:23 PM

We got home last night and thanks to a very greasy piece of pizza I spent last night and most of the day clutching my mouth for fear of tossing my cookies. I was up all night (literally) and am dying right now from trip exhaustion and then being up all night. So no trip report from me for a few days. It was wonderful to meet Tara and Melissa and if I met any of the rest of you I appologize for forgetting but our trip was a bit stressful - no fault of Disneys, but DS had a really hard time adjusting and spend practically the whole vacation crying and asking to go home (he's got high functioning autism). It was much better once we were at the parks - I had my loveable happy little boy again. But like I said- too exhausted for details right now....
Glad everyone got home safely.