Who's cruising March 2, 2002

[imamoose]

We are going on our first "FAMILY' cruise. DD 8yrs old, DS 6 yrs old, DW (age restricted) and I, 42 going on 11, are well, getting excited to say the least. I was wondering if anyone has stayed in cabin #8102 before. It is on the back of the boat, big verandah, but I have read on a few other boards that those rooms are noisy and vibrate alot, is that true?

[joshua4]

We will be there (Magic) on March 2 and will have my dd (1.5) and ds (5.5) with us. Maybe we will see you around the clubs!

Don't know the answer on your other question about the room -- we will be in 6042.

Josh's mom

[peter pans family]

Hi, We are going on the March 2nd cruise and we are in 6512 or 14 and are friends are in 6534...hope to see you!

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

I will be sailing also with DH (38) and DD (6).

[peter pans family]

I am traveling (44) with my DH (49) and 2 teenage DD. CAN"T WAIT...we are staying at the airport Friday night and the Saturday night we get back!

[rcostello1]

I can't wait to go........I have a lovely picture of the Wonder on my desktop from last Thursday when it was in port. Will be checking out the port cam again tomorrow.

Started pulling together clothes last night. We have 2 suits and enough jackets to share between us (2 men) for the cruise thankfully...now I have to find ties to match...all this work! Got my shoes fixed (new soles), now I have to find some new belts. And then I have to figure out what suitcase this stuff will fit into.

I'm going to starting REALLY planning and putting what we want to do into a spreadsheet. Wish I knew what our dining rotation would be. Was thinking of "double dipping" at Palos and our regular restaurant on the night they do Who Wants to be a Mouseketeer.

We're staying at the Cocoa Beach Hilton the night before the cruise and at Coronado Springs the Saturday we get back. Just doing that Saturday in the parks then heading home Sunday.

TTFN!

[Muffyrides]

This is our first cruise. We are taking my 4 kids, Isaac (13) Jacob 12, Grace and Corrina (6) twins. My mother is also coming along for lots of Disney fun. We are booked in room 6072 and 6074. Just started getting organized in piles of clothes last night. I cannot hardly keep the kids calm now.

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

Every night my dd asks - HOW MUCH LONGER!. We are also staying at the Radisson Friday night. We were going to do the Disney Hotel thing, but we don't land until 6 pm and thought it was better to just go to Cape Canaveral.

Don't have a room assignment yet - will get that on arrival - but have a GTY of Cat 9, Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom.

Like I said before, we have late seating, but am considering requesting a change to early. It just seems all the good activities for the 6 year olds begin at 8:00 pm. Will have to do alot of thinking about this.

Oh - I just bought suntan lotion and bonine - two important items to bring! Will start packing next week. DD is home for Presidents week, so we can achieve alot of packing and shopping.

[Muffyrides]

I did get two rooms booked at the Raddison. They were all out of the suites all they had left were king size bed suite-which is not enough sleeping space for my family so I just booked two standard rooms....not as good of a deal though.

[rcostello1]

I think I will just hibernate for the next two weeks :) Can't focus on anything else right now! I'm in the same boat (no pun intended hehehe) as LOVETHATMOUSE...GTY in Cat 9. The other room in out party is on deck 1 as long as that doesn't change.

We have late seating and I think that'll be best for us as we are all adults. I looked at the Wonder while it was in port today...sigh. I hope we have good weather on 3/2. Last few times I've checked on the ships it's been cloudy at the Cape. Speaking of which, sorry for the 2/28 Wonder people, but I'm hoping for a weather delay so we can see the shuttle take off on 3/2 :)

Now I have to put all my notes in a binder and make a spreadsheet of what I'm doing and wearing...that doesn't sound at all type A does it?

See you all soon!

[joshua4]

Wait -- did I miss something? Did they switch the launch date to the Saturday we are leaving? If so, my 5 year old will be going nuts. Someone please let me know! THanks.

[rcostello1]

No they didn't change the launch date, I'm just hoping for bad weather on 2/28 and 3/1 :) so we can watch on 3/2. One can only hope.

[joshua4]

Hmmmm. Very crafty of you Rcostello1. I think it is a long shot, but I will keep my fingers crossed with you.

Muffyrides -- we are right down the hall from you in 6042 (I have a DD 1.5 and DD 5.5). We are also staying at the Raddison. Did you see the coupon information that someone posted earlier -- it gets you a standard room for $69 with no reservation. I think you can try to use it and then if they say, sorry no availability, you can say "Oh we have reservations" and use your originally quoted rate. The coupon is at roomsaver.com.

14 days and counting . . . So much shopping left to do (new sandals for the kids, bathing suits, etc.) See you there!


Josh's mom

[goofyforwdw]

We to will be on the March 2 cruise, DH (55)and I (45) leaving the teens at home. Staying at the Raddison of Fri night. Is there a launch date for that night 3-1-02 That would be way cool ,but I dont think we get there till almost 7 pm. Could be why we had trouble getting a room. We also have late seating. I am looking foward to feeling the warm sun on my skin it has been real cold here lately
Brenda

[momofofo]

We are too on the Magic March 2. We will be me, DH and our two DD 13 and 11.

[imamoose]

Wow, it would appear we are all going to have a blast, I have a pic ture of the rear of the magic on my computer at home, work, tape to the steering wheel of the car, above my bed (so I can see it before I fall asleep) thought about having it tatooed on the back of my eyelids...but...well I'm in room 8102 on the very back of the boat....hopefully there will be some beautiful sunsets to enjoy...Suits of yeah thanks...but do I have to wear a tie...I have been told I have no neck....so usually putting a tie around it just makes my head swell up and turn purple...think I could get away with a very veryu nice turtleneck and jacket....anybody packing anything special for the island nite, mon......plus does anyone know if I can use or rent computer time on board to download and save digital pics or do I need to bring a laptop...I thought it would be easier to do it that way than let my 2 photgraphers to be blow thru 100 rolls of film....any info would be greatly appreciate.....we can't wait......:bounce: :pinkbounc

[imamoose]

as you can tell from reading that last post, I could also use some typing lessons, or at least the intelligence to read what I actually typed before I send it....but I'm going to blame it on my excitement........................................ ..

[disneyme]

We'll be there too -- me, DH, DS (turning 4 on cruise) and DD (10 months) and my in-laws.

Regarding the digital camera download, we bought a larger memory card to solve this problem for us - I think it holds over 300 pics.

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

12 more days! 12 more days! 12 more days!

[rcostello1]

only 8 more work days, that sounds better :)

I put together my binder of notes and now I'm making my spreadsheet of activities and things we're doing. No, I'm not type A or anything.... :)

[joshua4]

11 more days until we leave for Florida!!!!

Kids are going nuts and we now watch the cruise video each night before they go to bed.

Pretty soon we will be in single digit numbers in the big countdown!


Josh and Erica's mom

[disneyme]

We leave in 5 days. Trying to fit 2 weeks of clothes into 4 suitcases - good luck. Looks like it is pretty cold in Orlando, I hope it warms up.

Anyone know how full the boat is?

[joshua4]

Just curiously, how would anyone know how full the boat is until we get there? Is there a place to check that out?

We leave in 10 days. Just got our over the door shoe holder, fresh sand toys (Mickey sent them to the kids with a note), and soft sided cooler --- now if I could just get some work done at work instead of hanging out at this site all of the time, everything would be perfect!

Josh's mom

[rcostello1]

I dunno. Sure would like to know. Would also like to know what room I have, but that's another story :) Still GTY!

Anyway, bought my shoe holder thing and collapsable lunchbag thing, and pick up the clothes from the cleaners today. Found some nice "tropical" shorts yesterday...now I wonder if they match my tropical shirt. Wouldn't want to commit a tropical faux pas. :)

Think we'll start packing tonight if I don't have to work. I need something to make the time go by. Made ressies at Animal Kingdom Lodge last night instead of Coronado Springs. Going to surprise my parents/sister with that.

[imamoose]

hey Josh's mom, it is work hanging out at this site, work to keep your sanity...We're going crazy...how many days dad...how many days...let's read those things dad...pleeeeeaaaaaassseee...anyway I don't know how you would check the fullness of the boat...maybe a travel agent could...but I don't think they would know how many people in each room...just the number booked....we are cruising at what is considered high season...so I will guess the boat will be full..more kids to party with...wooooo hooooo...it's gonna be fun.....

[mickybean0816]

My mother (45) and I (19) will be on the Magic March 2nd also! How exciting. I'm more excited this time than I was for my first Disney cruise (on the Wonder) last April. Woohoo...we're staying in a deluxe suite with verandah! Can't wait...

Mickybean0816

[peter pans family]

mickeybean816, we are excited and where we are in the cheap seats- Category 8-maybe we can bribe you for a tour of your cabin....lol.. 10 days until we leave!!!!!!

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

just came back from walmart with bags of goodies - over door shoe hanger, sandles, gum for plane ride, underwater cameras, magazines, oh - too many things to count. Now comes the hard part - figuring out what to wear.

[imamoose]

only 242 hrs, 28 mins and 17 secs...16...15...14 but who's counting anyway... I'm starting to drive my kids nuts....there like "D-A-D this is suppose to be for us".......YEAH RIGHT...I'm going Goofy....also we are in a 1 bdrm suite (#8102) on the back of the boat...huge verandah..great place to watch the port disappear from.....maybe we should have a big party and watch it go........wooooo hooooo

[joshua4]

SEven days until we leave!!!!!

Getting stuff ready to amuse the kids on the plane and Mickey will start sending count down letters soon with small gifts.

Kids are so excited they can't stand it.

See you all there

Josh's mom

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

Would anyone be interested in setting up a time/place to meet at all?

[joshua4]

Hey, we just moved on to page 3 -- what a chatty group we all are.

Would love to meet up with you LOVETHATMOUSE and anyone else who wants to -- after I get through trying to get Palos and trying to get time in Flounders for my DD who likely will not want to go there anyway.

I forget, are you staying at the Raddison the night before? If so, we will be by the pool -- just look for the woman screaming "Josh, don't do that to your sister" "Erica, stay away from the deep end of the pool" --- well , you get the picture.

Josh and Erica's mom

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

We are staying at the radisson (unless I can get Riverside at last minute - they are sold out at the dc and cm rates as of yesterday, but I keep calling). We don't get into Orlando until 6 pm, and want to hit Character Wearhouse, so meeting at the hotel would not be feasible. I would hate to have you wait somewhere and not show up because we switched hotels or something.

I also need to do Club, Palo and Spa Shuffle, so maybe after that, or perhaps at the terminal in the am before we board? Any suggestions?

[iluvorlando]

Disneyme- Us Floridians will try to keep the weather just like it is this week. Lows in the 50's, highs in the 80"s.

Hope you all have a great time-me, dh, dd's are cruising March 16th. Could you let us know what movies are playing? I hoping snow dogs and return to neverland!

Have fun!:D

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

I spoke to DCL last night and they said Return to Neverland and Snow Dogs would most definetely be playing on our cruise (3/2), so they most likely will be playing on yours. Any new release will play for awhile she said. Look - Monsters is still playing!

[joshua4]

LOVETHATMOUSE -- On the advice of someone on these boards --- we are shooting to get to the port at about 1130 -- I think that means taking the 11 am Radisson shuttle. At the port I will be easily identifiable as the woman screaming "ERICA COME BACK HERE!" -- my little girl loves to run away from in crowd situations. She has a full head of black curly hair and looks like a wild child. I will also try to remember to pick up green ribbon before we go to tie to my back pack. Not sure where or when we could plan to meet because I am not familiar with the lay out of the port area.

Maybe we will just run into each other? When are you planning to get to the port?

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

I need to get to port a little earlier (about 10:30/11:00) because we need to fill out our Docs (I am a cm and don't get them in advance). We are renting from Avis, so will probably be on their shuttle if we end up not at the Radisson.

At the terminal you will also probably hear me screaming COURTNEY, COURTNEY! either that or ANDY! (my DH - LOL)

I will also try to get a ribbon. I am positive we will meet up at the port. The earlier we get there, the less people .

[rcostello1]

tooooooooo many days!!

We are staying at the Cocoa Beach Hilton. We probably won't be there until 10pm (that's my goal anyway). We're driving down from the DC area.

Figured we could go to Ron Jon's since they'll be open. And we'll go to Publix in the AM. They are just about across the street according to one of the maps I saw.

I'm glad I get to see Return to Neverland for free :) and I haven't seen Snow Dogs yet. I will have to put that into my spreadsheet! :D

[joshua4]

LOVETHATMOUSE -- Glad to hear that I am not the only mom with public screaming abilities! I will look for you.

By the way, do you work in a Disney store or just for Disney? I have been trying to track down some short sleeve disney t-shirts to have autographed on the ship and have not been able to find any at our local store. I don't suppose you know if more summer stuff will be coming out soon????? Of course, the disney store had a ton of mickey t shirts on sale in January and I did not think of buying any then and now they are all gone! I wonder if anyone else carries those sort of things.

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

Joshua4 - I work at TDS and yes, we are starting to get in alot of summer merchandise... swimsuits, coverups, towels, sandles, bags, etc. We do have more t-shirts now, you might want to take a trip to the store before you leave.

Since kids grow out of t-shirts, I decided to get white pillowcases and have the characters sign that. Our friends are looking after our pets (dog, cat and fish), so I will be bringing extra pillowcases to drop off at Guest services to have them sign for them as thank you gifts. I figure you never outgrow a pillowcase. I still have mine from 30+ years ago!!

[joshua4]

That is such an outstanding idea! I wonder if I could somehow find a disney decal to iron on to the pillowcase. Or some sort of disney patch? Any ideas about that? Maybe a fabric store would have something? Don't they make a pillowcase at the clubs one night though? I guess you can never have too many pillow cases!

Just had a thought, I think you can take a photo to kinkos and have them turn it into an iron on decal. Maybe I will take a picture of each of the kids in and put that on the pillow case before we go. I have some cute pictures of my son and the characters from our Jan trip to WDW. Hmmmmm. I will just add that to my giant to do list I guess.

[imamoose]

oh man...tou guys are getting me all fired up and scared...PLAN? what kind of word is that for a guy to know....does did veteran under you name instead of welcomed guest mean you work for disney....like I said you are all invited...plus let's my kids meet others right out of the gate....and isn't everyone suppose to wait and pay retail on the ship for everythong...you know...help get that stock price back up....anybody have any idea's about ways to actually be able to sleep this last week...and what's with the over the door shoehangers.....did I miss something...oh no something else to worry about...also as far aa the kid yelling thing goes..we will also be easy to spot..you'll hear my kids yelling "no dad don't do that and stay away from that, you could hurt yourself..remember last time" ha ha ha....

[imamoose]

aaaaggghhhh, I did it again...I promise I will check it before sending it from now on...I swear...hope you can figure out what I ment....3rd page and I was actually nervous about posting the first one....you know....no replies and everyone at work laughing at me.........whew!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[joshua4]

Party in 8102! Just tell us when and we will be there to be look around and be jealous of your room!

[rcostello1]

inamoose, perhaps you could consult my vacation binder :) i 3-hole punched all the stuff i've printed out/copied from here plus other sites, etc so i know what I'm supposed to be doing! :) at least according to us "freaks" here on DIS! i have my over the door shoe holder, my collapsable cooler, my 87 cent ponchos from walmart...i'm sure i will forget something simple, like money ;)

[jag90]

Looks like everyone is getting ready. We have to take a weekend trip to the world so the kids can get their fix( and DW). The kids are not too happy with us going and them not, they will get their turn in Sept. Me and DW need a little time to ourselves. However without the kids to chase after I'm not looking forward to the spa bill at the end.

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

Joshua4 - That is a GREAT idea about the decals from Kinkos. I was maybe thinking of buying a DCL patch and sewing it on the pillowcase? The pillowcases that I bought have a huge "boarder" on the open side. I thought of using the permanent markers to write each child's name in the boarder. That way, they know whose is whose.

Yes, they do have the pillowcase activity - forgot about that, but like you said, you can never have too many pillowcases We also ordered the Magical Dreams package from Magical Treasures - yet another pillowcase !!!

I was thinking of getting a t-shirt to give to Courtney so all her friends from the club could sign it - that would be a nice souvenior too. I would buy the shirt on board, though so it would have the DCL on it.

[joshua4]

rcostello1 -- where did you find the over the door shoe hanger? I just found one at Bed Bath and Beyond -- but it was $14 and I have to believe I can find something cheaper. Also, rain ponchos, good idea!

I too have a collection of print outs from this site (where to go on the various islands, what time to make reservations, how to deal with luggage drop off, etc.) The notebook is not a bad idea as I just have all of these jammed in a file folder.

LOVETHATMOUSE --Not sure what you mean by a border -- is it a pattern of some sort on the pillowcase? I am going to try to get to a fabric store tonight because some one here told me that you can buy special paper and print out the image on a color printer and then iron it right on the pillow case. (and can also pick up some green ribbon at the same time) That would be pretty easy I think. If I do that then I can just type the kids names under the picture before I print it on the decal in a cool font. I can also put something like "Disney Magic 2002" on that. What a fun project. Will let you know how it goes and if it is as easy as I think it will be. Looking for pillowcases today at lunch.

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

joshua4 - I got my shoe hanger at Target of a whopping $7.00!! That is where I got the pillowcase too (2 in a pack for $5.00). Let me know how the decals go. There is not border, it's hard to explain. Maybe a better explanation is like in curtains you have two spaces to put a rod through. The space inbetween is the "border" I guess that is not a great explanation. When you see the pillowcases, you might have a better idea of what I am talking about.

[joshua4]

Were they cotton pillowcases for that price? My DS is picky about his pillows so I need to find 100% cotton cases for him. I checked our target and they did not have the shoe holders other than cloth ones that were more than $14.

[rcostello1]

I got my thing at Target too. I think it was $5 or $6. Nice and compact!

[rcostello1]

I called DCL to find out how full the ship is for our sailing. They said 96% full. If you do the math that could mean only 35 rooms free. I only saw 22 rooms free on priceline last night.

Guess it'll be a big, happy party!!

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

My shoe thing is plastic, not cloth. And yes the pillowcases are cotton. They were on sale - I should have bought more. I picked up white ones. I have one laundry pen, but might head out to Joannes Fabric and pick up colored pens. I am sure they will have them. Might make the pillowcase more interesting.

96% full!!!???!! Rcostello1 - looks like we are "stuck" with the cats we were guaranteed - although I would take anything, even the engine room LOL.

[rcostello1]

I would love to be higher on the ship, last time we got deck 6, room 6008. I like rocking back and forth :) and my sister (here's something you should not try at home) almost fell over while walking across the room and looking out the porthole at the water while the ship is moving. *Don't combine those things* :) It's just a bad idea! hehehe

Anyway, deck 1 will do for me. Maybe one day when I'm not a CM I will get a verandah...or if I save up my DVC points (the more likely scenario).

Are we there yet?

[joshua4]

LOVETHATMOUSE

Very productive lunch errands -- I found that special paper at a fabric store in the quilting section, so my pillows will have the kids pictures on them with their names as well. Also found the shoe thing at walmart for $5 (so the $14 is going back this weekend).

Will look for the pillow cases at Target tonight -- hopefully they are still on sale!

[peter pans family]

rcostello, please tell me the boat was not rocking as much as it sounded in your previous posting!!! I've convinced my very seasick prone husband that he'll barely feel anything....yikes...I don't think I'll let him read your posting...lol
How noticeable is the movement? Thanks

[rcostello1]

joshua4 you are sure crafty. i'm doing my best just to get packed!

peter pans family - it wasn't really that rocky. it was kinda of subtle...something to rock you so sleep :) When you get off the ship you do still feel like you're moving even though you're not. I thought it was fun!

Just don't walk and watch the water at the same time, at least not the way my sister did. Your legs go one direction and your eyes and mind head another...

[peter pans family]

rcostello, thanks for the info. Has anyone done the surial bath? If so was it good?

[imamoose]

ok, how about as we start sailing out of the port...great place to wave goodbye from...deck 8 all the way to the back...right side....maybe we can get a little food and beverages delivered and you old time experts can give a newbie like me some pointers... never wanted to grow a week older so bad in my life....we are a disneyland experienced family...over 40 times...I have personally been over 250 times...just can't seem to get enough...but have never been on the cruise or to Disneyworld. We are spending 10 days at the grand floridian after the cruise...don't think I will ever want to go home....kids think I should be commited... and most on the boat will too by the end....wooooo hoooooo.......................................

[imamoose]

hey whata ya know...looks like I got that one right.....I'm learning...I'm learning.......

[rcostello1]

I've (we've) done the surial bath. It was fun. It's different. How often do you rub mud all over yourself (or your significant other)? It also makes your skin feel nice. Hmm, when to do that....maybe on the last day at sea. Last cruise was the 3 days so had to cram everything in. I think we did it on the day we went to Nassau (didn't miss much).

We might just do that again. I was looking at some of the other spa treatments too. I have to see how much $$$$ is left over after I pay the bills this weekend. Then we'll REALLY know what we can do.

[imamoose]

what's with the pillowcases...I have 2 kids...do I need to get them pillowcases before we go....help me rcostello1...could use that binder about right now.....

[rcostello1]

I haven't a clue about the pillowcases, other than I wash mine every week or so :) Perhaps LOVETHATMOUSE can shed some light.

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

imamoose - go out, buy pillowcases now and wash them. Then get permanent laundry markers and package it up in a ziplock baggie. Go to Guest Services and ask if they can get all the characters signatures for you. According to some of the posters on this board, you can get all the characters and then the pillowcase, shirt, hat, whatever, is delivered to your stateroom. I have never cruised before, so I am going on what I read here. I am sure they will do this for you. I am going to get a total of four pillowcases - one for my dd, and one each for the three kids taking care of our pets. Good Luck!

[peter pans family]

rcostello, thanks for the surial info. Of course if I wait to pay my bills to decide whether we can use the spa, we won't even leave home...lol! The pillow cases are a good idea but my kids are beyond that which is probably good as I already have so much crap to pack I'm happy to leave something behind! Traveling with 2 teenagers is like traveling with a movie star....they need to bring EVERYTHING!!! I think we will have a suitcase just full of shoes never mind clothes.

[rcostello1]

Oh my I must be a teenager then! I was trying to figure out what to take...black shoes, brown shoes (just casual or casual and "nicer"), burgandy to go with navy suit, let's see, sandals (would that be black or brown?), shoes for working out (hmm, tennis shoes or my hiking kind)...decisions, decisions. Then you have to have a belt to match.... :)

Thankfully the other night I matched up shirts, pants, jackets, and ties. I'm all set in the nice clothes dept, still have to sort out the casual clothes and then the accessories!

I think I would have done well on the Titanic....

[peter pans family]

SEVEN DAYS!!!!!! YIKES!!!!!! I fluctuate between total excitement and panic as I have so much to do and soooo little time.......
rcostello1, I'm the same as you all set in dress clothes need to work on casual....of course if I had lost the 20 pounds I've gained I would have a whole wardrobe already set....oh well maybe next time!

[rcostello1]

I did lose that 20lbs :) (actually 25) and I'm finally tan after all those sessions at the tanning salon! :)

And now I too am about to cross the line from can't wait can't wait to OHMYGOSHIHAVESOMUCHTODOBEFOREWEGO!

:)

Let's see....exactly one week from now I should be passing Richmond on my way to Florida.... :)

[mickybean0816]

Rcostello...you can check out our verandah.=)

Ahhh, only 8 more days...I'm going crazy. And I haven't even started packing yet. Sounds like everyone else already has. Guess I should get a move on. Is anyone else taking one suitcase with just shoes? *laughs* We are. Sandals, tennis shoes, and dress shoes...6 pairs of shoes for each of us!

Mickybean0816

[rcostello1]

Mickeybean...you're only taking one suitcase for shoes? How compact! :) just kidding! I'm hoping wine and shoes will fit together in one of our bags. Will have to properly pack the wine.

I have some of those travel bags that you put your clothes in and squah out all the air. Thought I'd test those with casual clothes and unmentionables :) Don't mind those being wrinkled!

[mickybean0816]

Hey, out of curiosity, how do you plan on keeping formal clothing unwrinkled? My mom and I were trying to figure out how we would get wrinkles out once we pulled them out of the suitcase. Otherwise, you'll be able to pick us out at formal night...*"OMG, look! It's them!"* *"How do you know??"* *"THERE DRESSES ARE WRINKLED TO ALL HELL!"* =)

We'll have one suitcase for ALL our shoes...and then we each get our own suitcase for clothes. Although, if I could bring more I would. I'm one of those people that pack for a year even though it's only a week trip. How do I know what I'm going to want to wear once I'm there!

Mickybean0816

[rcostello1]

Mickybean we think a lot alike! The only time I don't pack a lot is when I go to WDW and I know the weather will be warm...then I just pack light cause I know I will be buying a million shirts :)

I took all of our nice clothes to the cleaners (because I refuse to iron). I read somewhere on here (I think) that your clothes will be less wrinkled if you leave them in those plastic bags they come in from the cleaners. So I'm hoping that will work and plus I'm bringing them in a garment bag so they'll only get folded in half if that much.

I did take the clothes out of the bags for now so they can air out from the cleaners. And I think my mom is bringing a steamer with them, so you can always borrow that. :) But why worry...maybe the wrinkled look is "in" in the islands!

[iluvorlando]

Oh no! I just heard it was going to be in the 30's next week! Sorry! Hopefully it warms up by the weekend!

[mickybean0816]

Hmmm...I think the ship has irons in the laundry rooms...perhaps we can try that. Maybe they won't get wrinkled at all. Oh well...mom will iron for me if all else fails.=) Odd that I worry about silly things like wrinkles...and what to wear. I own about 60 tank tops...so I'll be taking almost all of them. I'm a clothing junkie.

My mom just told me that our room is aft...woohoo, no walking from forward all the way aft just to get off the ship...only a couple stairs. That really wasn't much fun walking half a mile to get aft. And we're by the elevators too...woohoo!

Hey Rcostello...since we're the only ones posting at the moment..*laughs*...what's your first name? It feels odd to keep calling you "Rcostello"! lol Which dinner seating are you guys at?

Mickybean0816 (Michelle)

[rcostello1]

I'm Rob :)

We have the late seating for dinner. My parents/sister currently have cabin 1046. Larry (my other half) and I don't have our cabin assignment yet. We are *anxiously* awaiting our room number. In the end it won't amount to a hill of beans, but I'd just like to KNOW :)

[mickybean0816]

Hi Rob.=) We're on the late dinner seating also.

Am I on page 6 of this post? Hopefully. Yah, Mary told me what room she was in...and I agree, it is nice to know. Then you can figure out which way you wanna go to get to certain places...mostly to help time pass faster.=) Hmm...wonder if Mary is getting her hair braided? She told me it was short...but if she is, we'll both have to get appointments at the same time...that is of course if they're not filled up the second we step on board. My mom and I's flight gets into Orlando at 1:00pm (the time everyone gets to start getting on board), then I know it's like an hour to the port, so we probably won't get on board until 2:30 or 3:00.=(

[MinnieMA]

I know I'm new to the cruise line board, but I saw that all of you are cruising while we're in Disney at the CBR and was just curious. I saw that a bunch of you are from Massachusetts and that you're leaving Friday night...so are we! We're taking the Delta 4:40pm flight, so maybe we'll see a few of you???!!! My group will be the ever so happy 20-something year olds eager to have some fun in Disney! Hopefully, I'll get on a Disney Cruise some day, they just seem so expensive! I guess a girl can dream! :rolleyes:

[peter pans family]

MinnieMa, we are from Mansfield, Ma so we find it easier to fly out of Providence on Southwest. This is our 1st cruise and judging by your posting I probably have at least a few decades on you!!!lol
My boss is paying for our trip or otherwise we'd be going back to WDW for the umpteenth time. Have agreat trip and save your money so you can do the cruise next!!

[rcostello1]

Only 7 days to go....are you READY??????

*pushing panic buttons*

Forecast is currently Sunny and 72 for next Saturday. :) Much better than this Saturday I might add. Plus, some of the *best people* will be in town. Don't you agree? :)

[peter pans family]

rcostello, NO I"M NOT READY!!!! yikes!! of course today was going to be my productive day and instead I am babysitting my nephew and niece 5mos and 3...trust me you get NOTHING done...but they are cute! Bought my DD (almost 15) 5 more bathing suits yesterday and now she's not sure which ones to keep!

[rcostello1]

I have done nothing day. Had to go into the office and thought I'd be done by noon (left at 2pm). Came home and went to sleep (had to recover from getting up so early on a Saturday, yuck!)

So I guess I'll have to do some packing tomorrow night after I work at the store. At least the time will pass by...

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

I am starting to pack tomorrow before I go to work (closing shift at TDS). Today was spent running around and finishing up last minute buys (camcorder tapes, suntan lotion, cover ups, etc).

That Radisson is calling my name :) :) :) :)

[imamoose]

Holy smokes, I was out of town on business and came back to find you guys have gone crazy..Rob I'm still waiting for that binder...well I packed tonight...I think...only thing I really found out was that I needed bigger luggage...4day/5days...depends on who you ask...kids are starting to go nuts...but I still got a big lead on them, we fly out on Friday....Ontario, Ca. and travel all day...we are staying at the Orlando Airport Marriott friday night and taking a Happy Limo to the terminal on Sat. morning...we plan to arrive around 10:30am...is that to early?...if so please let me know as I do not want to spend a bunch of time standing around the terminal....want to get on as early as possible to make sure I got provisions for everyone that decides to stop by as we leave port....anybody got an update as to whether we will be lucky and have the shuttle lift off on Sat...praying the weather helps make it happen...woooo hoooo...we're going goofy...:pinkbounc :jester:

[rcostello1]

So there's gonna be a little group of us DISers there in the terminal bright and early at 1030 chomping at the bit! :) We're going to get up (skip breakfast and save our appetite for the ship) and stop by Publix, big up some soda and stuff, and then head to the terminal. Can't be unfashionably early (they'll turn you away) and don't want to be too fashionably late (avoid the masses!).

So who's gonna be first on the ship? I'd rather be #2... :D

[imamoose]

so 10:30 is ok.....is that what you are saying...I will be there with bells on......Man this is going to be the longest week of my life.................

[joshua4]

Wow -- I leave you guys alone for three days and you go on a posting frenzy!

FOUR MORE DAYS til we leave. Still more packing to do. RCOSTELLO1 -- I am having similar shoe dilemmas -- can you wear black shoes with a navy and tan dress???? Anyway, my kids are so excited they may explode any second. Got my pillowcases (LOVETHATMOUSE -- 100% cotton at Target on the sale rack, thanks for the tip!) and will be ironing their little pictures on to them today. Just need to figure out how to flip the disney cruise ship logo into a mirror image so that it doesn't come out backwards when I iron it on.

Found some great disney activity books that Mickey will send the kids for the plane along with lots of Mickey fruit snacks.

Hope your last minutes stuff goes well for all of you ---


Josh and Erica's mom

[rcostello1]

We need a poll on the shoe thing :) I brought burgandy shoes to go with my navy blue (instead of black shoes). Of course I also have black shoes, brown shoes, sandals, workout shoes, casual "deck" shoes (white slips ons, $7 at WalMart :) ), oh I'm sure there are more shoes somewhere. This is why I find it hard to imagine traveling to Europe.... ;)

Hey I bought an XM Radio to take with us in the rental car. Now we can have good music from DC to FL!

Hope I get my packing done tonight...

[joshua4]

The problem with the shoe thing is that I have different cute shoes to wear with each of my outfits, but if I brought them all that would be about 12 pairs of shoes. Anyway, if you see me in a dress and think the shoes are not quite right, don't tell me and, rest assured that I have just the perfect pair of really cute shoes at home in my closet.

There, glad I got that off of my chest.

Now for the stupid question -- what is an XM Radio????

[rcostello1]

I like that line of thought. You *know* you have the right shoes at home, so you feel good. You will never see any of these people again in your life. :) At least that's what I read somewhere, but knowing some of us we WILL run into each other again!

XM Radio...satellite radio...an extra piece (like a portable CD player) or built-in...gets 100 channels of music, news, sports (Radio Disney too...we don't have that where I live)...and it works coast to coast so you don't have to change the station.

Have you ever driven down the east coast? Sometimes the music selection is, shall we say, lacking. (or twanging depending on the state you happen to be...)

:) So we'll give it a 1000 mile test on Friday and let everyone know how it is.

[imamoose]

Rob....only problem I've found with XM is if it's overcast....sometimes makes it a little fuzzy..otherwise it is "Da Bomb" as they use to say...I'm getting to old to try and keep up with the new lingo.....and Josh's Mom just stand next to me if you are concerned about your shoes not matching...I'm taking black socks and flip flops to wear with everything....shorts included...want to look like a real tourist and torture my kids at the same time...ha ha..ok so I really now understand why everyone kept saying packing a suitcase full of shoe's....I just kept putting more in last night as I packed...well I might need these if...and might need those if...then I read you should bring your own snorkel and mask...so in they went..and the kid's.....funny thing is I really believed when I started packing that I could get everything into 1 or 2 suitcases.....the eternal optimist in me....the county fair just got over and I had to go almost everyday (work related...I sponsored some of the pageants) any way went by the booth that said "we put your picture or whatever on a t-shirt (pillowcase) in minutes"..knew I needed to talk to them about something....BUT....didn't remember what until Josh's Mom reminded me this morning...a day to late...thanks....now I have something else to worry about....ha ha ha...

[peter pans family]

4 days until we leave!!!! Of course I've decided that all the outfits I bought are wrong for a cruise!! What cracks me up is I work in a veryyyy casual office with no dress code other than seeing who can come in sloppiest (usually I win) and yet I'm freaking about a wardrobe when I'm going away and will never see the people again!! Go figure!

[peter pans family]

OK now I'm panicking...should I or should I not buy snorkeling equipment...is it just the mask, snorkel and flippers? How much does it run? Thanks

[joshua4]

Peterpans family -- Don't panic. Whatever you bring, you will look fine. I have decided to go with basic black almost all of the time for dinner. Black cocktail dress (same one) for both formal nights. Black knit dress for Palos and Lumieres. Black pants and various tops for other nights. Simple. Functional. Less to pack!

Snorkle gear? No time for that now so we will be renting. What I really need to find our water shoes for the kids -- no one seems to have them in stock yet and it is too late to order on the internet. Any ideas where to go for those?

Josh's mom

[jag90]

Just back from WDW for the weekend. Boy do I hope the weather is better this week. Cold and rainy. All this talk about packing has me thinking we are way behind. I haven't even pulled all the suitcases down from the attic yet. DW is driving me crazy because I always wait until the last minute. Looking forward to meeting some of you at the Radisson Fri night.

[mickybean0816]

joshua4...too bad you dont live near me in michigan...i work at a t-shirt shop where we do custom work on just about anything (including pillows) and I could do the pillows with pictures on them for you...oh well...just make sure you reverse them when you print them out in order for them to come out the correct way!=)

OMG I haven't even started packing, in fact I won't even get a chance to until Friday just before we head down to the hotel by the airport...got's work and school all week=( Shoes sure are a big issue...I'm taking about 6 pairs...tennis shoes, sandals, dress sandals, and 3 kinds of dress shoes to go with all my outfits for dinnertime. Even bought a shoe rack thingy (lol) at target...thanks for the advice whoever came up with the shoe holder idea!

[iluvorlando]

Joshua4,
Are you going to the port first, staying at the radisson? If so, Ron Jons isn't a far drive for the beach shoes, also have seen them at target! Good Luck, ya'll have a great time!:)

[imamoose]

Mickeybean, can I just email you pics of my kids...you put them on the pillow cases..and I'll pay you for them when we get to the boat....NOW how's that for lazy...ha ha ha...and on the water socks(shoes) my only recommendation..from experience..is get ones if possible that have a strap on top or a real tight fit..otherwise they tend to want to come off in the water...and I'm only bringing my own snorkeling equipment because at one time...along time ago...I decided I wanted to be a scuba diver...went out and bought all the stuff and then...lessons?...nobody said anything about lessons...and certification?...wow that sounds like alot of work...SOOOOO...this is like my one chance to actually use the stuff....oh life's little twists and turns....wooo hooo only 85 hrs 34 mins and 20 secs to go..19...18..17....

[mickybean0816]

Joshua4...well...too bad you don't live closer...either that, or too bad we didn't figure this out weeks ago...then you could've mailed the pillows and I could've done it *laughs* If only there were a way...I would do it.=)

[joshua4]

Mickeybean -- thanks for the offer to help -- I think I have it under control -- it may not come out perfect, but it will get done, besides, it's the thought that counts and this only cost me $5 for the special paper and $4 for two pillowcases.

Our target does not have water shoes yet and I have also struck out at kmart and walmart. Going to try Kohls at lunch. Good to know that Ron Jon's is an option, but I have a feeling the prices will be high.

3 more days til we leave!

[peter pans family]

joshua4, at this point what's a few more dollars...go to RonJons and give yourself an extra few minutes..LOL....I think I've spent a small fortune getting ready for this trip. I keep justifying it by saying it's just early spring/summer shopping, of course I can justify anything when I want to. Have a great day...try to stay calm, although personally I am an overtired, nervous, mess at this point!

[rcostello1]

...at the thought of having to work 2 more days after this one before I can leave. I may need to take a sick day on Thursday...I am feeling so ILL :)

I started packing last night. Didn't get very far. I keep taking clothes out of the closet...I might need this...what if I need this...what about one of these...

So I decided to hire a tug boat to carry my belongings. I will share it with the rest of you for shoe storage :) A small fee will apply!

See you Saturday!

[peter pans family]

rcostello, Are you leaving late on Thurs? How long will it take to get to Port Canaveral? Drive carefully, you don't want to wrinkle your clothes!!!! My boss said it is only going to be in the fifties in the Bahamas this weekend...yikes back to the drawing board for clothes to pack! I wish I could call in sick Thurs or Friday but as he is paying for the trip it might not go over well!

[joshua4]

Hey stop with the weather scares! I just checked and while the highs are only in the low 70's in Orlando in the near future -- St. Thomas reports shows highs in the low 80's, partly sunny.

No worries --- throw another sweater in just in case.

Josh's mom

[rcostello1]

Peter Pan - I'm leaving Friday AM (9ish)...shouldn't take any longer than 13 hrs to get there. If I can leave by 8am that's fine too. I've done the trek to FL several times before. I find it very easy to get there but very hard to get back!! :)

I'm traveling in a group of 5 so we have others who can drive.

I think we'll be OK for weather...looks like it might be cloudy on Saturday but still in the 70s. I think by the time we get to Castaway Cay next week things will be a little warmer than this week.

Temps (both air and water) are quite fine down toward the VIs.

[peter pans family]

Joshua/Rob, Sorry about the weather scare....my boss said he meant the Port area was cool and that if I understood geography that by the time we reach St THomas it would be considerably warmer...luckily we have a work relatiionship that I could tell him to go to hell! lol

[imamoose]

Thanks Rob...had to remind us it's three days, didn't you..ha ha....hope the week on the boat is as long as this week seems to be....but for some reason I get the feeling it won't...it's amazing how scatter brained we can become...I got everything packed..the suitcases closed...sitting by the door....and then found my bathing suit...by accident...still in the dresser drawer...aauugghh..just hope I can still remember my name when I get there....

[joshua4]

IMAMOOSE -- You are already packed????? Even the kids stuff? Pretty impressive even with your bathing suit omission. How many suitcases did it take?

[joshua4]

IMAMOOSE -- You are already packed????? Even the kids stuff? Pretty impressive even with your bathing suit omission. How many suitcases did it take?

[imamoose]

ok..ok.. I'll tell truth...it only took 4...1 that is 6ftx4ftx8ft...and the other three are only slighly larger...I didn't even realize we had that much stuff..much less we would need it all for a boat ride..but oh well...my 8 yr old daughter had to have a matching outfit for everyday...and fuzzy slippers for around the room...my six year old son just wanted to make sure we were taking his pants with the knees ripped out...I had to point to him that ALL HIS PANTS have the knee's ripped out...and for some reason that made him smile.......

[imamoose]

ok..ok.. I'll tell truth...it only took 4...1 that is 6ftx4ftx8ft...and the other three are only slighly larger...I didn't even realize we had that much stuff..much less we would need it all for a boat ride..but oh well...my 8 yr old daughter had to have a matching outfit for everyday...and fuzzy slippers for around the room...my six year old son just wanted to make sure we were taking his pants with the knees ripped out...I had to point to him that ALL HIS PANTS have the knee's ripped out...and for some reason that made him smile.......

[imamoose]

ok..ok.. I'll tell truth...it only took 4...1 that is 6ftx4ftx8ft...and the other three are only slighly larger...I didn't even realize we had that much stuff..much less we would need it all for a boat ride..but oh well...my 8 yr old daughter had to have a matching outfit for everyday...and fuzzy slippers for around the room...my six year old son just wanted to make sure we were taking his pants with the knees ripped out...I had to point to him that ALL HIS PANTS have the knee's ripped out...and for some reason that made him smile.......

[jag90]

OK OK OK, I'm now promising to start packing tonight. You guys are making me look bad. I guess the short drive gives me more time.

[iluvorlando]

Ok - It is supposed to be really cold here tomorrow - highs only in the 50's. I know that isn't cold to most, but to me it will be freezing. Check the weather on yahoo or something -- the only good thing is that it will definitely be warmer in St. Thomas!

[rcostello1]

It's in the 60s here today...close to 70. That's rather warm for us. We've had no snow :( That's why we're driving down--I wanted to be sure we could still get to FL in case it was snowing! Well no worry about thatnow, but it'll be a lot colder here by Friday.

[mickybean0816]

Lucky you guys, I'm stuck here in Michigan with about 4-5" of snow (so far...it's still snowing) and it's too cold...perfect week to leave for a cruise! Only 3 more days! Woohoo!

[imamoose]

you guys are killing me...snow?...has been 78-82 everyday this week...mid 50's at night....perfectly clear and beautiful...oh the torture of living in Palm Springs, Ca....did I forget to mention it gets up to 15,000 degrees in the summer...or a least it feels like it.....hey did everyone enjoy my triple post....I just said I would check the spelling from now on...never said anything about how many times I would send it...ha ha ha...hey Rob where's my binder....2.4 days til we leave........

[rcostello1]

Oh the binder....I haven't finished my spreadsheet yet! I won't know what's happening on what day and when (on one piece of paper...forget the Navigators :) )

I was gonna stop by Palm Springs on the drive to FL but thought it might add too much travel time ;)

[goofyforwdw]

wow I went away for a long weekend and you people got real chatty. Glad to here everyone is excited about Saturday I know I am . I want warm sun shine. We were in WDW this weekend for the princess ball and the weather was yuck. Pouring rain, wind and somewhat cold. but we had a lot of fun any way. We got home on Monday and now have to finish packing for we leave mid day on Friday. Have most stuff pull together just need to get all in the suitcases. still have to figure out how many shoes. Still need to get a couple of underwater camaras , bought new water shoes at the Poly this weekend not tooooo bad just $14.00. I also need to get food shopping for the kids since they will be staying home. Looking forward to the spa need a massage badly and the kids gave me disney money for one for Christmas . Also looking forward to meeting you all . Don't get to stressed about packing,pillowcase and spread sheets all will fall in to place. Have a safe trip everyone and we will see ya on board.
Brenda

[joshua4]

We leave in just two days!!!! No, pillowcases still not done. No, haven't found water shoes yet. No, haven't finished packing (or even doing laundry that needs to get done before packing). No, haven't picked up dry cleaning so DH has pressed shirts --- BUT as Brenda mentioned above, I am eternally optimistic that somehow all of the pre-trip stuff will get done somehow.

[rcostello1]

Well here's some happy news as we all pack...

I got an unexpected check in the mail for over $350! :) Now let's think...I can put that money in the bank...or spend it on the cruise...in the bank...on the cruise...bank...cruise...ba....cruise :)

I'll be spending some extra time in the spa!

[imamoose]

not to worry, if necessary, I will pack a little desert sunshine and bring it to get the trip started right.....and...Rob I'm sure you'll understand...I unpacked and repacked...just to see what I had actually packed...and iron?....I thought that was why we packed so much into every suitcase....you know...kinda liked putting it between the mattress's....let the pressure do the ironing..and talk about pressure....my 6 yr old son came in at 3:30 this morning and woke me up to ask me "how much longer dad" ...

[imamoose]

not to worry, if necessary, I will pack a little desert sunshine and bring it to get the trip started right.....and...Rob I'm sure you'll understand...I unpacked and repacked...just to see what I had actually packed...and iron?....I thought that was why we packed so much into every suitcase....you know...kinda liked putting it between the mattress's....let the pressure do the ironing..and talk about pressure....my 6 yr old son came in at 3:30 this morning and woke me up to ask me "how much longer dad" ...

[imamoose]

LOOK..I only posted the last one twice.....hey Rob, they delayed liftoff 1 day...who knows....maybe we will get to watch it....ok so now the kids are starting to really annoy me...they aren't suppose to be more excited than me, are they?....wooo hooo....we're going cruizin................:jester:

[imamoose]

Hi I'm imamoose's daughter, I am 8 years old. I will be joining the Disney cruise March 2. I hope I will make some new friends with some of you. I am in room #8102 on the very back of the boat. My name is Cheyanne and I have a 6 year old brother named Chase.:pinkbounc

[imamoose]

Also Rob, I have been expecting a check for $350.00 that hasn't arrived yet...if you happen to get it by mistake...just bring me the money when we get on board...OK...hahaha

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

Just fininshed all the packing. Now I can just sit back and relax until tomorrow!!

Is there going to be a shuttle lift off? That would be sooo cool to see.

[joshua4]

When is the shuttle lift off?

Note to IMAMOOSE's daughter Cheyanne -- we will be there too and I will have my 5 1/2 year old son Josh with me -- maybe he can play with Chase in the clubs? Josh is really excited about making slime and playing with the computers.

Note to all of you have finished packing -- I am really jealous of all of you. I still have a ton of errands to do before we can pack.
All of this in complicated by the fact that I did something to the muscles in my neck and shoulder so now I can no longer turn left. Massage therapist worked on it for an hour and a half yesterday. Still no better. UGH!

See you all Saturday.

Josh's mom

[rcostello1]

OK, let's see...note to self...if I see inamoose on the cruise turn around and head the opposite direction....also, avoid deck 8, esp. around 8102.... :)

So let's pray for COLD FL weather again tonight so the shuttle can leave Saturday when we're there! :) At least there's hope!

We're "mostly" packed...jackets, nice shirts, casual clothes and unmentionables all packed. Shoes (I think only 400 pair this time) and toiletries in the laundry basket...have to figure out how to make all that junk fit in the bag. Have to figure out where my birth cert. is...think I left it in the nightstand...need to get cash (I never carry cash, it's so foreign to me). Haven't figured out where to carry the wine and the Dom...hemming and hawing on bringing the Dom, I think it's 1988...can't get that anymore. Oh well! And where will we put sodas or something if we bring them onboard!! ACK!! Oh well...cross that bridge when we get there.

I have a million things to do in my office besides making my desk look "pretty" before I leave today. I have a meeting in 2 hrs after which I free!!!!!!! Granted with all those million things I can still have time for the DIS...

OK, LATER!

[joshua4]

Rcostello -- I, like you, have to make my desk look pretty before I go and have back to back meetings all day. I am thinking that a small bonfire might do the trick . . . Of course, still time to check in here.


Josh's mom

[mickybean0816]

Hell, I've only thrown a few things into a bag so far...my luggage is at my mother's and I haven't had a chance to get down there yet to actually start packing (she lives 45 minutes away). I'm sooo jealous of all of you that are completely done. Wish I could say the same. I have a duffel bag stuffed full of clothes and those are only half of what I'm bringing.

Rob...if you wanna meet up on the cruise...let me know...so we can figure out a spot.

Joshua4--How are those pillows coming out? Hope it worked!

[joshua4]

Mickeybean -- Thanks for asking. Got the pictures and dcl logo on an iron on sheet and will iron tonight. So far, so good.

[imamoose]

alright, alright....you can keep the check Rob...maybe I can just weasel a drink out of you...ha ha ha...and Josh's Mom, go ahead and bring the kids as we leave the port....they'll keep each other occupied...speaking of kids...how do you get them to go to bed during this time....my daughter is up at 11:30 last night wanting me to practice dancing with her...for the cruise...

[joshua4]

Try this: "Go to bed right now or I swear I am leaving you at home with your grandmother when I go on the cruise" Very effective.

[goofyforwdw]

Well I am almost all packed, main suitcase mine and DH and bathroom bag is done just have a small pile that I have to fit somewhere. Shopped for the kids today so they don't starve, did some coooking for them to so they won't eat just junk.Made sure all the laundry is up to date so if they don't keep up I can beat them when I get home. Gave them a tons of order and thoughts.
Did up this weeks billing so we can pay for this trip when we get home. Other than all that I lounge around all day eating bon-bon (lol). We are out of here at 12:30 tommorow for a 2.45 flight ,spending the night at the Raddison I AM NOW REALLY EXCITED.See you all there and don't sweat the small stuff remember to ENJOY
Brenda

[imamoose]

We're limo-ing out at 9:30 tomorrow morning...and found out if the entire family sits on the suitcase you can actually get 3 more outfits in.....wow...a vacation and learning experience all in one...and Josh's mom...tried the grandma thing...but kids are little quicker than me and said...we already called to see if she would take us and she said no way...ha ha..oh well.....just going to beat them and see if that works...lol...see you all Saturday morning....:jester:

[rcostello1]

OK I think I'm finally there...clothes and shoes packed...one bag is still "open" but I think we have everything in it that's supposed to be. My carry on just has my laptop, a bottle of wine (rare and special :) ) and a bottle of Dom. I have my priorities!

Mickeybean did my sister send you a pic? If you spot her/us say hello. I'm thinking we'll be on the deck above the Goofy pool to watch the deck party as we sail away. That was the vantage point I had last time (it was the Goofy pool, right?).

Anyway, I'll be the freak on the cell phone calling jealous friends saying "the ship is moving, the ship is moving," as we leave port.

Does anybody have a better meeting spot and/or time? I'm open to suggestions. See you all REAL soon.

Oh and PS inamoose: unless I try real hard tonight, I won't have my spreadsheet schedule finished (work got in the way) but I will still have my binder...I'll be selling autographed copies at Castaway Cay :D

[peter pans family]

Everyone have a safe trip and we will be on the ship before you know it! Of course it is almost 1 a.m. and I'm still waiting for laundry to dry so I can pack it! We are flying out tomorrow afternoon and will stay at the airport overnight....then on to the Disney bus on Saturday!!!! BON VOYAGE and thanks for all the great information.

[joshua4]

Hey everyone who is left -- can you believe it is almost here? Leaving for the airport at 11--thank goodness we didn't wait to leave until Sat. because they say Chicago will be getting 6 inches of snow tonight and tomorrow.

By the way, did the shuttle launch yesterday?


Most things are done -- pillowcases came out ok, but not great. My DD's picture is a bit "flaky" on the case. Oh well. Nice try anyway.

Tied a couple lime green ribbons on our suitcases -- hope I get to meet some of you!

Josh and Erica's mom

[LOVETHATMOUSE]

Hey Joshua4 - we are leaving at 11:30 for the airport. We have decided, after all to stay at the Raddison, so hopefully we will bump into each other (you were staying there right?). Hope to see you at the pool - although I got a call last night from a friend in Orlando who said it wa 30 degrees out!!!

Have not heard of the shuttle lifting off, so maybe we will get lucky. Good luck in everyone's flights and see ya on the ship!

[rcostello1]

Gee wonder if there's anyone else left to read this?

I'm here at the Cocoa Hilton. Drove for 13.5 hrs straight...once I finally got to 95 and 528 I thought I'd never make it to the hotel...last few miles was the worst!

OK...inamoose will be greatly disappointed....among the many, many things we forgot to bring (as in had ready to go but didn't make it in the bag or forgot to put in the car) was my "famous" binder of information...all my confirmations, notes from DIS, Navigators, excursion info, etc. All my hard work POOF down the drain...had taken it out of my bag to give to my sister to read in the car on the way down and left it on the coffee table.

Good thing there wasn't anything too important. I realized we had left it at home as we drove through North Carolina (we live near DC).

At least I don't have to drive home...someone else can do that. I swear, 55, 70, 65, 55, 60, 65, 70, 55, 70, AAAAAGGGHHHH! Can't they just make up their minds? I could never remember what I was SUPPOSED to be doing for speed (cause of course 70 means 77 and 65 means 72 etc. :) :) ) Happy to say no tickets!

See everyone on the ship!