Pumpkins, Pirates & Poppins-A Magical Halloween Cruise W/PICS-COMPLETE!!!!!

[Disneygrl36]

So this trip all started last year on our Dec 3-7, 2006 4 night Wonder cruise. We slipped the little paper requesting a quote in the box & voila’ a quote appeared in our fish. It was a good deal & we knew we would be saving money & getting a on-board ship credit too. We were looking for something special to do for my birthday as it is a big one this year……..the big 4-0 (just so you know right up front, I am not a woman afraid of that number at all, because most days I feel about 12 years old in my heart), We were enjoying the 4 night cruise so much that a 7 night seemed a great idea & there was an Eastern Caribbean that would be leaving 4 days before my birthday & to put the cherry on top of the cake, we would get to celebrate my Halloween birthday Disney style. So, we booked right then & there. That seems like forever ago…………and in all reality it was 10 months ago.
This is why we had to book another cruise..........us back in port & getting ready to leave the ship & none to happy about it.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2534.jpg
And I had to get another day on Castaway Cay.....as I have had 2 cruises & not one fully beautiful day there yet.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2293.jpg


I came home from that cruise so excited to already have another trip in the making & popped on to my favorite Disney board & found the thread of DISers going on our cruise as well……..& the rest is history. I feel like I know some of these people really well already & cannot wait to meet them. They will be making many appearances in this report I am sure, because we have some fun things planned.

We decided as well, that we would head on down on Friday October 26th & do Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween party as a warm up to all our cruise fun. We have done the Halloween party twice in the past & it is such a great way to celebrate Halloween. We booked a night at Wilderness Lodge villas in a studio & got our party tickets & made our one little measly ADR for Liberty Tree Tavern before the party. We won’t dress up in costumes for the party, but will wear Halloween t-shirts. We are most excited about seeing the revisions to the Haunted Mansion & the parade & fireworks are always spectacular.
A few Halloween pictures to get us all in the mood.......

A few parade shots
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/2004-MNSSHPParade-HauntedMansionflo.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/2005-OctHMdancersbootoyou.jpg

The details have all been sorted out……….
Airline tickets were a challenge. We ended up with tickets out of Nashville TN which is about 3hrs from home, but saved over 300$ doing that, but had to compromise on flight time, so we won’t be arriving until 5pm with just barely enough time to eat a quick bite & get to the party. So, we had to cancel our 1 little ADR.

Magical express is all arranged to get us to the Lodge & our packet came about 2 weeks ago………..isn’t that always fun when stuff starts to arrive.

We are taking Tiffany Towncar service from the Wilderness Lodge to port, because last time DCL transfers did not get us there until 2 o’clock & we were starved & felt really rushed to get on board, eat & then get to the drill & sail-away party. So we have a pick-up scheduled for 10:00am so we should be to port by 11:30. We will be taking DCL transfers back to the airport post cruise.

I made our cruise on-line reservations at 12:45am on July 28th right when I was supposed to & got everything we wanted without problems.

We are ready to go…………………………

More to come…..up next meet the characters & what kind of plans do we have.

[hayanyujah847]

Great TR so far~! As a first timer, I'm excited to hear more. :) :)

[ReAnSt]

Melanie- Enjoy your Halloween cruise and Happy Early Birthday.:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

[Babs417]

I cant wait GREAT START:thumbsup2

[Disneygrl36]

Great TR so far~! As a first timer, I'm excited to hear more. :) :)

Thanks for reading so far....I have a little over 3 weeks to go, but I will try to do some fun updates before we leave.

Melanie- Enjoy your Halloween cruise and Happy Early Birthday.:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

Thanks so much Becky. I have been meaning to get over to your trip report......I will do that tonight. Back to back cruises........that is awesome.

I cant wait GREAT START:thumbsup2

:wave: Hi ya Babs.....one of my fellow cruisers. Thanks for reading. I am sure you will make a cameo appearance somewhere in this report. I can't wait to meet you :hug:

I will work on another update & have one up in a few days.......

[Disneygrl36]

In case you want a little more back story, here is the link to the trip report from last December's cruise & a few days at Disney World.
Click here for A Splash of Wonder & a Dash of Christmas Cheer trip report from Dec 2006 (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1290206)

[Disneygrl36]

In case you are wondering about the title of the trip report........
PUMPKINS FOR HALLOWEEN OF COURSE
PIRATES BECAUSE WE WILL BE DRESSING UP AS SCURVY PIRATES ON PIRATE NIGHT
AND
POPPINS BECAUSE I WILL BE PRACTICALLY PERFECT IN EVERY WAY FOR HALLOWEEN!!!!!!!

I love trip reports with lots of pictures, so until the next installment here are a few more Halloween pictures from MNSSHP's past to help get us in the spooky Halloween mood.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/2004-MNSSHPmainstreet.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/2004-MNSSHPGoliath.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/2004-MNSSHPballoon.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/2005-Octpumpkinssmoke.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/2005-OctHMgravediggers.jpg
That sure puts me in the mood how about you????

[dizzi]

Cant wait to read more.........
LOVE LOVE LOVE the pictures!!!!!!!!

[DreamCruiser100]

COOL!!! I have a pre-trip report too..........Can't wait to see you Mary and Bert!!!:lmao: ( you know my DH's name is Bert :) )


We will be cruisin' soon. Can't wait to read your report when we get back!!!

[Brianne&Sami'smom]

Great start to your report! I love the parade pictures. We did the MNSSHP in October 2005 right before our first cruise. Our daughters loved it. Unfortunately I could not talk my husband into for this trip. :sad1:

The countdown is on now for our cruise! Time is flying by! :goodvibes

[frdeb1999]

Hope you have a wonderful cruise and a very Happy Birthday!! :) Can't wait to hear the rest!

[Disneygrl36]

Cant wait to read more.........
LOVE LOVE LOVE the pictures!!!!!!!!
Yeah Lynn is here.......I am loving that you are reading along.
I will be sure to post lots of pictures as I think it makes the trip report much more fun to read.
COOL!!! I have a pre-trip report too..........Can't wait to see you Mary and Bert!!!:lmao: ( you know my DH's name is Bert :) )
We will be cruisin' soon. Can't wait to read your report when we get back!!!
Pam, maybe I should just borrow your hubby for the night then my DH won't have to fool with a costume. I will be sure to go look for your pre-trip report. It will be cool to read other's take on our trip.
Great start to your report! I love the parade pictures. We did the MNSSHP in October 2005 right before our first cruise. Our daughters loved it. Unfortunately I could not talk my husband into for this trip. :sad1:
The countdown is on now for our cruise! Time is flying by! :goodvibes
:yay: another one of my fellow cruiser......I am so flattered that all of you are reading along. Sorry you won't get to be at MNSSHP. I just love it. I promise to take lots of pictures for you.

Hope you have a wonderful cruise and a very Happy Birthday!! :) Can't wait to hear the rest!
Thanks for the good wishes. I can't wait to write more.

[PaDisneyCouple]

Well, well, well, what do we have here? A Moon Cruise report already in progress?

The names were changed, to protect the innocent... ::cop:


S&C

[mruhaak]

I'm going on the Eastern about a month after you! Looking forward to hearing about yours!!!:)

[Disneygrl36]

Well, well, well, what do we have here? A Moon Cruise report already in progress?

The names were changed, to protect the innocent... ::cop:


S&C

Hi ya S & C.......glad to have you along. I hope I don't have to change too many names. Guess it depends on how much :drinking1 goes on.

I'm going on the Eastern about a month after you! Looking forward to hearing about yours!!!:)

I think you were along for my trippie last Dec....I remember your avatar. Glad you came back again.

Next installment coming up....................

[Disneygrl36]

Ok, you know the how & why of this trip & I gave you a sneak peek at the who.
Now let's meet the characters.

Me, your faithful trip reporter. Melanie 39 & holding until Halloween night when I will turn the big 4-0. I am ok with that really. It's just a number right?????? I figure one way to make this big birthday less painful is to celebrate it Disney style.
Here I am on my other Disney birthday which was my 37th birthday & we celebrated it at MNSSHP on Halloween night.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/2004-HappyBdayHat-1.jpg
Having a Halloween birthday has always been interesting. When I was little everyone thought my bday parties were Halloween parties. As I grew up & got 2 baby brothers when I was in my early teens, we always had to go trick or treating with them on my birthday. That birthday celebrated at Disney was one of the best, but I think this one might top it, because we get to go to a Halloween party & dress up in costume which I have only gotten to do once in the recent past.
Here I am with one of my favorite characters who is the inspiration behind my Halloween costume. This is an awful picture of me, but she is Practically Perfect as always.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_1996.jpg
So I am a huge Disney fan, obviously. I am the planner, organizer of all of our Disney trips. I obsess about making sure everything goes well & am the maker of the lists, ADR's, Palo & excursion ressies, etc.

DH. Eric. He turns 37 the week before we leave. Yes, I know I robbed the cradle :lmao:. He is a bona fide Disney lover too, just not quite as obsessed as I am. He loves that I plan everything & he just has to show up & have a good time. Biggest challenge of this trip wasn't getting him to book it...that was easy considering the great time we were having on the 4 night cruise at the time, but in talking him into dressing up for Pirate Night pirate: this year. We only did Pirate tshirts last year & I really wanted to get more into the spirit this year.
Here we are last year in our pirate shirts.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2389.jpg
So, after much begging & pleading & searching the internet endlessly I finally found something he would agree to wear. He is now looking forward to it I think. He will be dressing as my counterpart Bert on Halloween as well, so you know he has to be a good sport. He is the best husband ever :love: & let's me talk him into lots of things. He was a little leary of meeting all my DISboard friends in the beginning, but I think he is coming around now & he is even reading a few pages of our cruise thread every weekend now.


A bit player...............our dog Bella, who will have to go stay with Grandma & Grandpa while we are gone. She is our baby since we don't have any kids & we spoil her rotten.
This is one of her weird habits.........curling up in the pillowcase
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/000_0035.jpg
A better picture of her.......isn't she cute.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_3029.jpg

Now, this character requires a backstory.
Last year we had a little friend who went with us on our trip & liked to make appearances occassionally.
Here he is on the beach at Castaway Cay
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2290.jpg
and with my flight of martini's in Diversions
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2243.jpg

So this year, we wanted to have another little friend.
This little guy seems to fit the bill perfectly considering we will be hanging out with a bunch of scurvy pirates pirate:
Here he is hanging out with Mr Potato Head....who as you can see is ready to cruise.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/102_0167.jpg

Other characters that will play a role in this adventures.......lots of my DIS friends that I have met on our Cruising Around the Moon thread. Can't wait to meet these people. I think we will all get along great.

Next up.........
What are we planning to do.

[vital]

Well, well, well. I'm bored at work and what do I find? 2 Moonies doing trip reports already! I'm looking forward to reading about the trip from your point of view! There are good times to be had by all! It's funny about your cruise mascot. I was thinking of taking my Captain along with mepirate: . Captain Jack, that is, not Capt Morgan, although he'll be making frequent apearances himself:cool2: .

[mruhaak]

Hi ya S & C.......glad to have you along. I hope I don't have to change too many names. Guess it depends on how much :drinking1 goes on.



I think you were along for my trippie last Dec....I remember your avatar. Glad you came back again.

Next installment coming up....................


OH Hi Melanie!!! It's me Melanie!!

I just figured it out when I got to the next page and saw the minpin photos!! Yeah! Look forward to hearing about your cruise!

[Disneygrl36]

Well, well, well. I'm bored at work and what do I find? 2 Moonies doing trip reports already! I'm looking forward to reading about the trip from your point of view! There are good times to be had by all! It's funny about your cruise mascot. I was thinking of taking my Captain along with mepirate: . Captain Jack, that is, not Capt Morgan, although he'll be making frequent apearances himself:cool2: .

Glad to see you Paula :wave: Captain Jack would be a perfect mascot. Bring him along........the more pirate:s the merrier.

OH Hi Melanie!!! It's me Melanie!!

I just figured it out when I got to the next page and saw the minpin photos!! Yeah! Look forward to hearing about your cruise!

Hi Melanie :wave:

[jns]

Hi from a fellow cruiser
this cuise is my 40th birthday present too
can't wait to meet up with everyone
love the report , thanks for sharing

[mruhaak]

I went to Vegas last year for my 40th birthday. That was fun!!! But yours will be funner!!

[Disneygrl36]

Hi from a fellow cruiser
this cuise is my 40th birthday present too
can't wait to meet up with everyone
love the report , thanks for sharing

Woo hoo :woohoo: Jackie is here too!!!! I didn't know we were the same age.....well we will have loads to talk about won't we. The whole turning 40 thing doesn't bother me too much.

I went to Vegas last year for my 40th birthday. That was fun!!! But yours will be funner!!

I've never been to Vegas.......it's on my list. Hey this cruise can be just like Vegas........what happens on the Disney cruise stays on the Disney cruise. :lmao:

I'll get the next update going shortly & try to post it tomorrow.

[vital]

You are so right about "What happens on a Disney cruise stays on a Disney cruise!"pirate:

[jns]

I celebrated my last day of been 39 instead of been 40th last June , been waiting along time for my birthday present
22 more days to go

[Disneygrl36]

So we have 20 days until we cruise now..........:cool1: :banana: :cool1:

Here's the only packing I have in progress at the moment.
This is the box I am mailing ahead to the ship full of Halloween stuff & treats for my fellow dissers, door decorations & odds & ends, small gifts for our server team & room steward, etc.
Before.......I realized I was going to need a bigger box :lmao:
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/102_0173.jpg
Neater in the bigger box
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/101_0180.jpg

It's pretty full & I am glad I don't have to find a place for all that stuff in our suitcases.

I have made a spreadsheet of our on-board plans with the must do's included...but here is the original document that I have been working on since we booked this trip with all of our plans.

Disney cruise line trip oct 26-nov 3rd

Friday Oct 26th
Drive to Nashville
Delta flight depart 2:05pm
Arrive MCO 4:57pm
Magical express to Wilderness Lodge
Check-in-confirmation
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party :hmghost:

Saturday oct 27th
Breakfast at Roaring Forks WL
Tiffany town car to port-pick up time 10:00am
Board Disney magic :banana:
Lunch
Dis meet 3:00pm
Drill
Sail away party
Welcome aboard show
Dinner

Sunday Oct 28th
At Sea
?Behind the scenes event
DIS-Scrapbook Swap/Martini Party at Diversions @ 3:00pm
Palo Dinner Reservation @ 6:30p
Golden Mickey's

Monday Oct 29th
At Sea
????Dis Ladies Brunch
Dis Trick or Treat
Twice Charmed
Match Your Mate

Tuesday Oct 30th
St Marteen
Under 2 flags tour 8:45a
?Dis pirate photo
Pirate night/party
Krazy Karaoke

Wednesday Oct 31st-my bday
St Thomas/St john
St John island tour 7:15a
Halloween Costume Party
80’s night

Thursday Nov 1st
At Sea
Behind the scenes event?
Exotic Rasul 11:00a
Palo tea 3:00p
Disney Dreams
70’s night

Friday Nov 2nd
Castway Cay-Serenity Bay
Bike ride/snorkel
?Dis CC group photo
Remember the Magic Show
Til We Meet Again
Pub Night @ Diversions

SATURDAY NOV 3RD
Debarkation
Disney cruise line transfers
Delta flight depart 12:40pm
Arrive 1:40pm

So those are the plans.....I also have a list of other things I want to do this time as time allows.
These include: Hidden Mickey Tour of the ship-self guided
Art of the Disney Magic Tour-self guided
A wine/martini tasting
An Art of Disney entertaining session
Read a book on Deck 4
Watch a movie on the big screen one night under the stars
Relax & tap a nap so we can stay out late & PARTY
Work out in the gym

I am soooooooooooo excited & can't believe we have under 3 weeks to go.

We are getting ready for Halloween around the house too. It is helping me with my excitement to look around & see Halloween is getting closer.
Here are our outside decorations.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0185.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0186.jpg
A few other decorations & another gratuitous picture of my dog....
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0188.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0190.jpg
I even have a little bit of Disney Halloween at work.
My desk
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/102_3646.jpg
A close up of the decoration
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/102_3645.jpg
Next up........
What new stuff have we bought for this trip???????

[ReAnSt]

Melanie I love the Halloween decorations. I need to get some up and soon.:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 I love Halloween but have been very busy.

[nts4wdw]

I am definitely on board!! I too am turning the big 4-0 this year (in December), but hoping to celebrate it at WDW! We have our reservations, just waiting to see if work cooperates!! I married a younger man, too. Has to be to keep up with me!
I love your Mickey decoration at work. Looking forward to more!

[Disneygrl36]

You are so right about "What happens on a Disney cruise stays on a Disney cruise!"pirate:
I know nothing, I see nothing...........:rolleyes1
I celebrated my last day of been 39 instead of been 40th last June , been waiting along time for my birthday present
22 more days to go
Woohoo Jackie........we will both be so ready to CELEBRATE good times, come on.....:rotfl:
Melanie I love the Halloween decorations. I need to get some up and soon.:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 I love Halloween but have been very busy.
Thanks for the compliment on the decorations. When you have a Halloween bday you tend to like to celebrate it.
I am definitely on board!! I too am turning the big 4-0 this year (in December), but hoping to celebrate it at WDW! We have our reservations, just waiting to see if work cooperates!! I married a younger man, too. Has to be to keep up with me!
I love your Mickey decoration at work. Looking forward to more!
:welcome: Lynn. Glad to have you along for the ride. I loved that house & those Halloween disney decorations so much. A friend at work told me about seeing them (they were going to get them for me for my bday) but I went straight after work & picked them up & then they were mad at me.:confused3: I told them, you all know me & my Disney obsession & about this Halloween trip, did you really think I wouldn't go buy them for myself. DUH!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Babs417]

I know Im going to be bummed not doing the MNSSHP to much $ their is 13 of us but I know the storeys will be great!:thumbsup2

[101DalmFan]

Another Moonie here ...... great reading so far! And fab pictures!!! :)

[LivingtheWDWdream]

Great plans and I can't wait to hear all about it.

I hope you have a magical birthday!

[Disneygrl36]

I know Im going to be bummed not doing the MNSSHP to much $ their is 13 of us but I know the storeys will be great!:thumbsup2
Babs, I'll have some extra fun just for you & I promise to take lots of pictures to post on my trippie.

Another Moonie here ...... great reading so far! And fab pictures!!! :)
:Welcome: Lennie. Glad to have you here. I :love: trip reports with pictures so that's why I like to include them. I think they make the story more real & help you get to know the people better.

Great plans and I can't wait to hear all about it.

I hope you have a magical birthday!
I hope it's a great bday too........it's a big one that's for sure. I can't wait to celebrate aboard the magic. P.S. I love your username. :thumbsup2

I will work on getting another update up in the next few days.......new stuff for the trip. I gotta take some pictures.

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

I'm here and I am all caught up! :woohoo:

I love that you are going to be Mary Poppins! I can't wait to see the pictures and I am sure you will be perfect in every way! ;)

You know I love your little Mickey friend! :goodvibes That is my favorite part! :rotfl: I can't wait to see all the food he has to show off this time! popcorn::

I loved seeing the older MNSSHP pics. It's amazing to see how much they have improved it year to year! :eek:

When and where did you get that Mickey trick-or-treat bucket?

Oh, and all that candy looks awesome! I wish I was crusin' with you guys! I'd be hyper the whole time with all the sugar! :banana:

I love the Disney decorations at work! The Halloween display is so neat! Did it all come as a set or are those ornaments you bought? I love the Mickey as Peter Pan! He's so cute! :goodvibes

And you will be celebrating your birthday too! Lucky you! I know it's going to be a fun one! :woohoo:

[Kimmielee]

GREAT start to your trip report! Keep up the good writing! I also LOVE your halloween decorations! :thumbsup2

[DreamCruiser100]

Love all your pics, and decorations!!! We are going to have such an AWESOME TIME!!!!!

[FauntleroyFAN07]

I made it over, and I am very excited this is my first cruise line report to read, my DW might get made as I have been itching to do one of the cruises, and you might just put me over the top.

Back to reading.....

[FauntleroyFAN07]

All caught up, I love your decorations, I gotta get me some disney halloween stuff.

Your plans sound great, hope you can fit everything in and have time for your extras.

Your trip is going to be here very soon.

[Disneygrl36]

I'm here and I am all caught up! :woohoo:

I love that you are going to be Mary Poppins! I can't wait to see the pictures and I am sure you will be perfect in every way! ;)

You know I love your little Mickey friend! :goodvibes That is my favorite part! :rotfl: I can't wait to see all the food he has to show off this time! popcorn::

I loved seeing the older MNSSHP pics. It's amazing to see how much they have improved it year to year! :eek:

When and where did you get that Mickey trick-or-treat bucket?

Oh, and all that candy looks awesome! I wish I was crusin' with you guys! I'd be hyper the whole time with all the sugar! :banana:

I love the Disney decorations at work! The Halloween display is so neat! Did it all come as a set or are those ornaments you bought? I love the Mickey as Peter Pan! He's so cute! :goodvibes

And you will be celebrating your birthday too! Lucky you! I know it's going to be a fun one! :woohoo:

Lindsey.........so glad you made it here. :hug: I can't wait for my trip. :banana: :pirate: Mickey is very excited to show off lots of things for the cruise....especially the food. I got the Mickey pumpkin several years ago at Walmart of all places. I got the Halloween display that I have at work at Hallmark. The house was seperate & then there is a set of 4 Disney Halloween ornaments. I filled up the other windows with some paper ghosts & bats. It's really cute. Can't wait to celebrate my bday too!!!! Thanks for reading along.

GREAT start to your trip report! Keep up the good writing! I also LOVE your halloween decorations! :thumbsup2
Woohoo :woohoo: Kim is here too!!!!!!!!!!

Love all your pics, and decorations!!! We are going to have such an AWESOME TIME!!!!!
I KNOW we are!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so ready to go. Soon....soon....soon!!!!

All caught up, I love your decorations, I gotta get me some disney halloween stuff.

Your plans sound great, hope you can fit everything in and have time for your extras.

Your trip is going to be here very soon.
:welcome: Dan. Glad you found me. :goodvibes: Tell Candi not to be mad at me. I would hate to put you over the edge on your desire to go on a Disney cruise.......:laughing: I hope we have time too......I gotta take a daily nap, so I can stay up late or at some point I am sure I will crash.

I will try to get another update up tomorrow.

[Disneygrl36]

Well today it happened..........

Our cruise documents came. Yippee :banana: :banana: :banana: It is SO real now that I have my documents in hand.
Here they are with Captain Potato Head & Pirate Mickey....who were so excited to see them.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0192.jpg
Notice the color of the luggage tags. I got LIME GREEN TAGS............WOOHOO!!!!!!!!!!

In related news.......Mr Potato Head is getting really excited for this cruise as well. He knows we will bring him back some new parts as a consolation present for not being able to go on the cruise.

Here he is showing off his Pirate attire.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0196.jpg
Here he is being a chef because he cannot wait to see what kind of yummy food we eat.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0194.jpg
Expect to see alot more of Mr Potato Head in this trip report..he's like our 2nd mascot.

I promised some new stuff updates.
Our biggest new thing for the trip is a new digital camera. I wanted a better zoom.....so we got a new Kodak Easyshare z712.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/102_3644.jpg
These are my new tennis shoes.......notice the color. A diser has to love some lime green tennies.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/102_0166.jpg
Here's is some of the Halloween loot I have bought for the Dis kids trick or treat.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/101_0179.jpg

Next up more new stuff & things to be excited about...........

I AM READY TO GO!!!!!!!

[Kimmielee]

Melanie... I LOVE my Kodak .. I have the Z612, bought last year. I hope you love yours!

[Disneygrl36]

Melanie... I LOVE my Kodak .. I have the Z612, bought last year. I hope you love yours!

I really like it so far......I got some great shots at the Rick concert & we were pretty far back. Can't wait to see how it does at MNSSHP. I hope to get some good night time shots.

[mruhaak]

Melanie! I think we're the same Melanie. I got a pair of tennis shoes that same color a couple weeks ago!

Congratulations on getting your documents!:banana: I bet you're really excited, it's getting so close!! I'm excited because that makes mine all the closer too!! By this time a month from now hopefully I'll know what cabin I have (we're booked cat. 12.)

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

You know I am loving that picture of you and Rick! ;)
The lime green tennis shoes are such a nice touch! :thumbsup2
I love Chef Tater's "Kiss the Spud" apron! :rotfl:
How cute!!!
You have as much Disney stuff around your house as I do!
I love it all! :banana:

[jns]

Thanks for posting your T&T's gives me some idea on what to get
Just over 2 weeks to go

[praisehisname]

Hi Melanie! We're doing the Halloween cruise in 2008, so I'm looking forward to hearing all about it from someone who has been! Hope you have a geat time!


I am definitely on board!! I too am turning the big 4-0 this year (in December), but hoping to celebrate it at WDW! We have our reservations, just waiting to see if work cooperates!! I married a younger man, too. Has to be to keep up with me!
I love your Mickey decoration at work. Looking forward to more!

Hey Lynn! What a great surprise to see you over here! Are you thinking of taking a cruise??? Huh? Huh? You guys would love it!

Denise

[nts4wdw]

Love the shoes and pirate Mickey!! I am always looking for ways to slip a little Lime Green into my attire!! Good job!! :thumbsup2

[Disneygrl36]

Melanie! I think we're the same Melanie. I got a pair of tennis shoes that same color a couple weeks ago!

Congratulations on getting your documents!:banana: I bet you're really excited, it's getting so close!! I'm excited because that makes mine all the closer too!! By this time a month from now hopefully I'll know what cabin I have (we're booked cat. 12.)
I've never had lime green shoes....but I couldn't resist.

You know I am loving that picture of you and Rick! ;)
The lime green tennis shoes are such a nice touch! :thumbsup2
I love Chef Tater's "Kiss the Spud" apron! :rotfl:
How cute!!!
You have as much Disney stuff around your house as I do!
I love it all! :banana:

I love that picture too Lindsey & it is my screen saver at home & at work.
I love having Disney things all around the house.....since Disney is my Happy place it is nice to be surrounded by things that remind me of it.

Thanks for posting your T&T's gives me some idea on what to get
Just over 2 weeks to go

Glad I could help you out. I am ready to goooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!

Hi Melanie! We're doing the Halloween cruise in 2008, so I'm looking forward to hearing all about it from someone who has been! Hope you have a geat time!
Hi Denise & :welcome:. Oh isn't next years Halloween cruise a double dip? That will be awesome.

Love the shoes and pirate Mickey!! I am always looking for ways to slip a little Lime Green into my attire!! Good job!! :thumbsup2
I have a bit more lime on the way!!!!!!!!

Next update coming sometime this weekend. A few more new things to show you!!!!!!

[WDW Poly Princess]

I just noticed you land in Orlando about the same time as me! I getin at 4:25. Maybe I'll see you at Magical Express!

[Disneygrl36]

I just noticed you land in Orlando about the same time as me! I getin at 4:25. Maybe I'll see you at Magical Express!

I will be sure to say hi :wave: if I see you & thanks for joining me on my pre-trippie. I love your reports. It's almost time for Disneyween!!!!!!

[Hedy]

What fun!

[Disneygrl36]

So we only have 11 days until we leave now....... :cool1: :banana: :yay:
:cheer2: :mickeyjum :donald: :goofy: :ccat: :hmghost: :simba: :dumbo:
A smilie for each day left!!!!!!

A few more new items for the cruise to show you.
A new dress & outfit for me....Disney themed of course.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0201.jpg
Our Lime Green Moonie meet & greet t-shirts with my new lime shoes & DH's new swim trunks.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0206.jpg

We have been in costume mode this week. DH's pirate costume finally arrived & yesterday we went in & out of several thrift stores in search of Bert's outfit. We finally came up with a great jacket & pants for him & got him a hat as well.
Here are Mary & Bert..........Mary looks a little incomplete....my best friend in making my suit & I will get it from her next weekend....lest you all think all I am going to wear is a hat, shirt & boots & carry an umbrella around. :lmao:
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0228.jpg
Pirate costumes next........or photos of them anyway.
Mine.....A tavern wench
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0234.jpg
DH's....a scurvy pirate.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0229.jpg
Pirate accesories
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0204.jpg
So I think we are all set now!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have my box packed & ready to go to the ship too & will mail it tomorrow.
I even decorated the box.........good grief I am a hopeless cause.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0232.jpg
Hope it arrives because all my treats are in there & I will be crushed if it doesn't make it!!!!!!!

I have been watching Mary Poppins today to get ideas about my hair & makeup as well. I am worried about the hair. I even took a picture of the back of her hair & might make an appointment & go to the salon & get them to do it for me. I have never been good at doing up-do's on myself. I want to be the best Mary I can be. I think I have a sickness!!!!!!!!!!

Ok, that's all for now folks!!!!!!!!!

I'll do another update mid-week.........

[FauntleroyFAN07]

love the outfits you are taking with you. Make sure you take pics of all the food you guys are going to eat, I would love to see that stuff. And take a bunch of pics around casteaway cay, I would love to see more pics around that island.

[nts4wdw]

Cute outfits!!

[Disneygrl36]

love the outfits you are taking with you. Make sure you take pics of all the food you guys are going to eat, I would love to see that stuff. And take a bunch of pics around casteaway cay, I would love to see more pics around that island.

I promise to take lots of pictures Dan.....more food & C Cay pictures just for you. :thumbsup2

Am I boring everyone to death???? Where did everybody go????? Could it be that some of my Moonie friends are entering freak out mode????? :scared1:

Box got mailed to the ship today......full of Halloween goodies & goodies for fish extenders.......... I hope it makes it or I will be crushed. pixiedust: that it gets there.

[Disneygrl36]

Cute outfits!!

Awww thanks Lynn!!!! I am most excited about our Halloween costumes. :cool1:

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

Your costumes are fantastic! :goodvibes I can't wait to see pictures of you as Mary Poppins! You are going to look great and perfect in everyway! ;)

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

I am excited to read all about your cruise. I love that you are a fan of putting lots of pictures in your trip reports as the ones with lots of pictures are always my favourite ones.

I am going on the eastern cruise next December so I am really looking forward to hearing about your experiences.

[DreamCruiser100]

Hey Melanie, Just checking in, LOVE LOVE the pictures!! Haven't started freaking out here YET, well ok AS OF YET...TODAY lol,

Have a Super Day!!!

Pam

[vital]

Hey ya! Another Moonie checking in here. Beginning to feel the anxiousness creeping up, but I keep it in check since I only have one night to pack and I'll need all the built up energy for that!:lmao:

Cool costumes! I'm taking a Captain Jack for my mascot. We'll have to get pics of him and Mr Potato Head together enjoying some RRRRRRRRRRum!:rotfl2:

[FauntleroyFAN07]

thanks, cant wait to see the pictures, I am sure they are going to be great.

I wanna go on a cruise right now.

[Jennifer48]

Hi Melanie!

I remember reading your other cruise trippie. I'm so glad to see you are going on another one! You deserve a bright, bright sunshiney day at Castaway Cay! :cool2:

How awesome that you and your hubby are going to be Mary Poppins and Bert. What a great idea! :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

Btw, they showed Mary Poppins one night on the Ariel View on my last cruise. Watching my favorite movie on that screen at night on the Magic was indescribable. I hope you are able to do it too!

Can't wait to read/see more! :goodvibes

[jns]

Am I boring everyone to death???? Where did everybody go????? Could it be that some of my Moonie friends are entering freak out mode????? :scared1:

No way enjoying every bit of your report
Keep posting
see you soon

[Disneygrl36]

Your costumes are fantastic! :goodvibes I can't wait to see pictures of you as Mary Poppins! You are going to look great and perfect in everyway! ;)
I am soooo excited about being Mary.....at least I know I will be Practically Perfect in Every Way once in my life if only for a short time.

I am excited to read all about your cruise. I love that you are a fan of putting lots of pictures in your trip reports as the ones with lots of pictures are always my favourite ones.

I am going on the eastern cruise next December so I am really looking forward to hearing about your experiences.
:welcome: Lessa. I just think pictures help tell the story & help you get to know the people so much better. Oh....the ships are so pretty in December all decorated for Christmas. You will love it.

Hey Melanie, Just checking in, LOVE LOVE the pictures!! Haven't started freaking out here YET, well ok AS OF YET...TODAY lol,

Have a Super Day!!!

Pam

No freaking out allowed.........just brimming over excitement.......that is what I am going to call mine anyway. :lmao:

Hey ya! Another Moonie checking in here. Beginning to feel the anxiousness creeping up, but I keep it in check since I only have one night to pack and I'll need all the built up energy for that!:lmao:

Cool costumes! I'm taking a Captain Jack for my mascot. We'll have to get pics of him and Mr Potato Head together enjoying some RRRRRRRRRRum!:rotfl2:

Well Mr Potato is going to stay home......he's too bulky & falls apart too easy to make the journey......but I would love to capture a photo of Pirate Mickey & Cap'n Jack enjoying a rummmmmmmmmmmmmm drink together. Yoho Yoho a Pirate's life for me.............arghhhhhhhhhh :pirate:

thanks, cant wait to see the pictures, I am sure they are going to be great.

I wanna go on a cruise right now.

I know reading these cruise trips can make you want to cruise. But it's not my fault.
Hi Melanie!

I remember reading your other cruise trippie. I'm so glad to see you are going on another one! You deserve a bright, bright sunshiney day at Castaway Cay! :cool2:

How awesome that you and your hubby are going to be Mary Poppins and Bert. What a great idea! :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

Btw, they showed Mary Poppins one night on the Ariel View on my last cruise. Watching my favorite movie on that screen at night on the Magic was indescribable. I hope you are able to do it too!

Can't wait to read/see more! :goodvibes
:welcome: Jennifer. That would be awesome to see MP on the big screen. Glad you found me.

No way enjoying every bit of your report
Keep posting
see you soon

See you real soon Jackie :wave:

[TotallyAngelic]

HI
I hope this birthday celebration halloween cruise is going to be amazing for you - you certainly are very well prepared and your costumes are fantastic! We have booked for the halloween cruise 2008 and reading all about your preparations is certainly getting me into the spirit of things! Whether I will be as organised remains to be seen!!!! I am so looking forward to reading your trip report when you get back!
Also your house is beautiful - and it looks great with the pumpkins on the porch and the banner - I really wish we did more house decorating for halloween in the UK (very boring place to live). This year I am having a halloween party and will have a go at a few decorations, but it will be nothing compared to the USA :sad1: I really feel the need to emigrate!!!!!!!
Wishing you a fantastic and magical trip to MNSSHP and on the cruise and a very happy 40th birthday to you!!:cheer2:

[Disneygrl36]

HI
I hope this birthday celebration halloween cruise is going to be amazing for you - you certainly are very well prepared and your costumes are fantastic! We have booked for the halloween cruise 2008 and reading all about your preparations is certainly getting me into the spirit of things! Whether I will be as organised remains to be seen!!!! I am so looking forward to reading your trip report when you get back!
Also your house is beautiful - and it looks great with the pumpkins on the porch and the banner - I really wish we did more house decorating for halloween in the UK (very boring place to live). This year I am having a halloween party and will have a go at a few decorations, but it will be nothing compared to the USA :sad1: I really feel the need to emigrate!!!!!!!
Wishing you a fantastic and magical trip to MNSSHP and on the cruise and a very happy 40th birthday to you!!:cheer2:

:welcome: to you Totally Angelic. I am fairly well organized, but there are people more so..........I think I am cruising with a few. :banana: I am glad you are along for the ride & hope I can help get you more excited for your Halloween cruise next year. I am really excited about dressing up for Halloween.
Thanks for the compliments on our decorations. People have really started going all out on Fall decorations in the last several years. It is fun. We usually carve a couple of pumpkins too......mine that are "carved" in the photo are fake, but this year we won't carve them since we will be gone for Halloween.
Thanks for the good wishes.

[Disneygrl36]

OK so we are 7 days away from our vacation starting now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

I am past ready to go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I was thinking at work today that maybe I need to make a list of my lists......
I have several lists now.....

1) List of things to do for the cruise
-book wl accommodations for oct 26-DONE
-get mnsshp tickets-DONE
-get passports-DONE
-pay off balance-DONE
-get airline tickets-DONE
-arrange magical express-DONE
-arrange tiffany towncar to port-DONE
-july 29th book palo, tea, shore excursions on-line-DONE
-on-line forms-DONE
-order rewards card & transfer balance-DONE
-order bracelets-DONE
-make door signs-DONE
-get stuff for treat bags for t or t-DONE
-get stuff for scrapbook swap & make surprise-DONE
-get fish extender-DONE
-get treats for fish extenders-DONE
-get halloween costumes ready-DONE EXCEPT PICKING UP MP SUIT FROM JEN
-get pirate costumes ready-DONE
-make spreadsheet of activities-DONE
-PACK

2. Packing list
PACKING LIST WDW

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS
ITINERARY
AIRLINE CONFIRMATIONS
MAGICAL EXPRESS STUFF
TIFFANY TOWN CAR CONFIRMATION
DVC CONFIRMATIONS
CRUISE DOCUMENTS
PASSPORTS

DIGITAL CAMERA-CASE,MEMORY CARDS,BATTERIES, RECHARGER & CORD

MICKEY WALLET -REWARDS CARD, MNSSHP TICKETS, DVC CARDS, POST CARD STAMPS, DISNEY VISA, DRIVERS’S LICENSE

EXTRA EMPTY BAG/BACK PACK/FANNY PACK
MASSAGE BALL/PONCHOS
HAT/SUNGLASSES
JOURNAL, BOOKS,CELL PHONE,CHARGER
BINOCULARS
MINNIE EARS
DOOR DECORATIONS
FISH EXTENDER
SCRAPBOOK SWAP STUFF

TOILETRIES/MEDICINES
POOF
SOAP, HAND SANITIZER
SHAMPOO, CONDITIONER, GEL, HAIR SPRAY
SHOWER GEL, LOTION, SPRITZ
TOOTHBRUSH, &PASTE, DENTAL FLOSS, MOUTH WASH
QTIPS, COTTON PADS
RAZOR, SHAVING CREAM
LIP STUFF, HAND CREAM
HAIR DRYER, CURLING IRON, BRUSH, BARETTES, PT HOLDERS, CLIP, BOBBIE PINS
MAKEUP
SUNSCREEN-FACE,BODY
BUG WIPES/SPRAY
NEXIUM, HYOSCAMINE
VITAMINS
IBUPROFEN
IMMODIUM/TUMS
TYLENOL SINUS
NYQUIL, DAYQUIL
MOLESKIN, SCISSORS TO CUT
BANDAIDES,NEOSPORIN
BONINE, MOTION-EASE

CLOTHES
UNDERWEAR, BRAS
SOCKS
BATHING SUITS
SHORTS
TSHIRTS
CAPRI PANTS
OUTFITS FOR PALO & SEMI FORMAL NIGHT
PIRATE COSTUMES-ACCESSORIES
BERT COSTUME
MARY POPPINS COSTUME-HAT, UMBRELLA, BOOTS, GLOVES
TENNIS SHOES, DRESS SHOES, SLIDES FOR BEACH
PJ’S
LOUNGE PANTS/SHORTS

3. Itinerary -ALREADY POSTED
4. Spread sheet of Activities-SEE ITINERARY
5. List of Diser's on the cruise
6. List of Diser's cabin numbers
7. List of Diser's with fish extenders
8. List of Diser's that have ordered bracelets for the cruise that I need to find at the meet.

TOO MANY LISTS...............but lists are a way to make sure everything gets finished & that I don't forget anything. Right :confused3 Here's hoping I don't forget to pack anything & that I don't stress myself out too much. My plan is to pack on Wed. so we can just relax on Thursday............WOW that's next week. Yippppppppppppppppppeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!! !!!

So here is something that makes all this list making worth while & one reason why I am looking so forward to this cruise. Us on the beach at Castaway Cay last year.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2301.jpg

I plan on trying to make a post every day until we leave & I am going to take a little walk down memory lane from our cruise last year & post some of my favorite pictures.

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

I love that picture on Castaway Cay! :goodvibes I wish I was there right now! :)

[Babs417]

I took part of your list another good job:thumbsup2

[aysha]

HI everyone.
I just discovered this website and love it. I have learned so much about WDW. I am going to be on the same cruise. This is my first Disney cruise. My friend is getting married on Castaway Cay. It is so exciting. My mom and my 3 year son is joining me. I am thinking about making signs for all of our rooms in our group. Any ideas out there... Maybe saying Bride and Groom for couple and then Wedding Party for everyone else. What do you think?
What is the Scrapbook Swap? I am a huge Scrapbooker!! I am going to Downtown Disney the day we get in just so I can go to the scrapbook store there.
Aysha:yay:

[disneykibbes5]

I am so excited for you. I can't wait to hear all about it when you get back. Enjoy yourselves.:cool1:

[DreamCruiser100]

IT's almost TIME MELANIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WOO-HOO:dance3: :banana: :dance3: :banana: :cool1: :banana: :dance3: :woohoo: :banana: :cheer2:

[mruhaak]

Melanie,
Congratulations that you have less than a week! Look forward to hearing how it went when you get back!:banana: :banana:

[Disneygrl36]

I love that picture on Castaway Cay! :goodvibes I wish I was there right now! :)
That is probably my favorite picture from our last trip. I really really hope we get a nice sunny day on CC this time so I can get in the water this time. pixiedust:

I took part of your list another good job:thumbsup2
Babs..........it's almost time. Woohoo :woohoo:

HI everyone.
I just discovered this website and love it. I have learned so much about WDW. I am going to be on the same cruise. This is my first Disney cruise. My friend is getting married on Castaway Cay. It is so exciting. My mom and my 3 year son is joining me. I am thinking about making signs for all of our rooms in our group. Any ideas out there... Maybe saying Bride and Groom for couple and then Wedding Party for everyone else. What do you think?
What is the Scrapbook Swap? I am a huge Scrapbooker!! I am going to Downtown Disney the day we get in just so I can go to the scrapbook store there.
Aysha:yay:

:welcome: Aysha. Nice to meet another fellow cruiser. We have a whole thread just for our cruise....you can find it here http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1049793&page=584 It tells all about our planned activities. The scrapbook swap is going to be Sunday in Diversions at 3pm. Bring 20$ worth of scrapbooking supplies & swap with a friend. Kind of a fun way to get neat supplies. Go on over & say hi.
A wedding on Castaway Cay sounds like heaven.

I am so excited for you. I can't wait to hear all about it when you get back. Enjoy yourselves.:cool1:
:wave: it's nice to have you here.

IT's almost TIME MELANIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WOO-HOO:dance3: :banana: :dance3: :banana: :cool1: :banana: :dance3: :woohoo: :banana: :cheer2:

I know Pam.........in one week I will be at MNSSHP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :hmghost:

Melanie,
Congratulations that you have less than a week! Look forward to hearing how it went when you get back!:banana: :banana:

:party: I can't believe it's almost here either. Yippee. Only 4 more days to work for me. :cool1:

[Disneygrl36]

Ok, so one week from now I will be getting ready to go party with Mickey & friends for Halloween. I can't wait. We have been to the Halloween party 2 times & I :love: it. I have seen some pics of the decorations this year...courtesy of Fairy Tale Bride :wave: Lindsey.....& they look so awesome. It will be so great to walk up Main Street & see the castle. I am soooooooo excited.
Here's a few Halloween party past pictures to get us all in the mood.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/2004-MNSSHPtrainstation.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/2004-MNSSHPPirates.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/2004-MNSSHPCindyscoach.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/2004-MNSSHPHitchhikingghosts.jpg

More tomorrow..............coming up favorite cruise photos & hopefully tomorrow a picture of the complete Mary Poppins costume. I am supposed to pick it up from my friend tomorrow.

[jns]

thanks for the list
mind if I borrow it please

[poohnpiglet3]

I have SO enjoyed reading your thread, Melanie!!!

Love the new asaics! I'm in need of some new tennies myself and that's my favorite brand cause other shoes have such high arches in them! I'll have to look for those.

Can't wait to meet you on the cruise! Oh - and your itinerary is awesome! I'm going to be checking out the navigators I printed out from this past month and making sure to highlight what we don't want to miss.

LOVE the pics of the doggie!!! Sooo cute!

And your pics of the MNSVSHP are getting me so psyched. I love that parade! We are getting our costumes in the mail hopefully tomorrow or Monday. I can't wait to see how they look in person! They'll be great at MNSVSHP I hope!

Sherri :)
(Fellow MOONIE!)

[Disneygrl36]

thanks for the list
mind if I borrow it please
Borrow away Jackie!!!!!!!!

I have SO enjoyed reading your thread, Melanie!!!

Love the new asaics! I'm in need of some new tennies myself and that's my favorite brand cause other shoes have such high arches in them! I'll have to look for those.

Can't wait to meet you on the cruise! Oh - and your itinerary is awesome! I'm going to be checking out the navigators I printed out from this past month and making sure to highlight what we don't want to miss.

LOVE the pics of the doggie!!! Sooo cute!

And your pics of the MNSVSHP are getting me so psyched. I love that parade! We are getting our costumes in the mail hopefully tomorrow or Monday. I can't wait to see how they look in person! They'll be great at MNSVSHP I hope!

Sherri :)
(Fellow MOONIE!)

Hi ya Sherri :wave: glad to have you along. I love MNSSHP & can't believe we will be there in a week. The decorations this year look even more awesome & the parade & fireworks are the BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I love my little :dog: She is so spoiled, but loveable. I wish we could take her traveling with us.

[Babs417]

Melanie I have a picture of me looking at the Grand Canyon, The picture is of my back and the Canyon I love that who took your Picture?

[Disneygrl36]

Melanie I have a picture of me looking at the Grand Canyon, The picture is of my back and the Canyon I love that who took your Picture?

Babs, I have had a few cocktails tonight & it took me a minute to figure out what you were talking about. :lmao: A preview of how forgetful I will be on the cruise when I have had to much to :drinking1 My Mom took that picture of us. She & DD went with us last year on our 4 day Wonder cruise & we had a wonderful time together. Here we all are at Serenity Bay...I was taking the pic here.....it will give you an idea of the weather we had last time. pixiedust: that we have better weather this time. That is my Mom & Dad huddled in their towels. :rotfl:
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2299.jpg

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

I hope that you get a warm and sunny day at Castaway Cay this time around!

[Babs417]

Melanie thats the way I talk my girls get so mad at me trying to figure out what I mean. You ought to see me with a few drinks. Thats right you will:lmao: :rotfl2:

[Disneygrl36]

Ok todays pictures will be in honor of embarkation day..........since in one week we will FINALLY be aboard the Magic.

Last year we took a cute bus to the port.........
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2090.jpg
The Disney terminal is beautiful.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2088.jpg
Ready for a Sail Away Party?????????
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2120.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2121.jpg

I cannot believe that after all these months we only have a week left to go. I cannot wait to meet all my dis friends at our meet on embarkation day. We should all be able to spot each other in our lime green a mile away.
I am so ready to go. :woohoo:

[Disneygrl36]

I hope that you get a warm and sunny day at Castaway Cay this time around!
Me too!!!!!!!!!!! I really really want to get a float & get out in that beautiful water.

Melanie thats the way I talk my girls get so mad at me trying to figure out what I mean. You ought to see me with a few drinks. Thats right you will:lmao: :rotfl2:
Note to self...........listen carefully when Babs talks :rotfl:

[Disneygrl36]

I have my complete Mary Poppins costume now!!!!!!!!! We went to get it yesterday & she had a few things left to do on the jacket, so she brought it to me today. It looks great.
Here's a sneak peek.............
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/103_0235.jpg
I can't wait for Halloween!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Disneygrl36]

This time next week, we will be enjoying a day at sea, so here are a few sea day photos from our 4 day cruise last year.
How about a drink of the day?????
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2212.jpg
Relaxing in the spa is a great way to spend a day at sea.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2201.jpg
Hanging out on deck 4--the perfect place to read a book.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2440.jpg

We leave in 5 days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Your costume is so neat! I can't wait to see you all dolled up for the party!

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

That Mary Poppins costume is amazing! :eek: Very impressed! :thumbsup2

[ReAnSt]

I :love: :love: the Mary Poppins costume. I can't wait to see you in it. I know you will look great.:thumbsup2

[jns]

Thanks for posting all the photos

not long now

[FauntleroyFAN07]

thats it, im hooked, I am going to getus on a cruise next year. I am going to save up all my gift cards from sunshine rewards and pay for a cruise. Plus use my saved up change.

:thumbsup2


darn you and your fun pictures.

no really thanks, i love the pictures and really wanna go on a cruise.

did you see the cruise line special on tv last week.

they are going to build 2 more cruise ships that are 50 percent bigger than the ones they have now.

:banana: that is awesome

[mruhaak]

Melanie! You're almost there!
Only 3 more days!!!

I can't wait to hear about it!

PS
Great Mary Poppins costume!

[Disneygrl36]

Your costume is so neat! I can't wait to see you all dolled up for the party!
Thanks Lessa.....I can't wait to wear it.

That Mary Poppins costume is amazing! :eek: Very impressed! :thumbsup2
My BFF did a great job didn't she. I can't believe how great it looks. I am pleased as punch.

I :love: :love: the Mary Poppins costume. I can't wait to see you in it. I know you will look great.:thumbsup2
Thanks Becky can't wait to be Practically Perfect in Every Way.

Thanks for posting all the photos

not long now
No not long at all Jackie!!!!!!!!!

thats it, im hooked, I am going to getus on a cruise next year. I am going to save up all my gift cards from sunshine rewards and pay for a cruise. Plus use my saved up change.

:thumbsup2


darn you and your fun pictures.

no really thanks, i love the pictures and really wanna go on a cruise.

did you see the cruise line special on tv last week.

they are going to build 2 more cruise ships that are 50 percent bigger than the ones they have now.

:banana: that is awesome
It is hard to look at cruise pictures & not want to go isn't it Dan. It is a great vacation really. I am excited about the 2 new ships & I would love to take an inagural cruise once they get built. That would be awesome. Glad you are enjoying my report as much as I have enjoyed yours.

Melanie! You're almost there!
Only 3 more days!!!

I can't wait to hear about it!

PS
Great Mary Poppins costume!
Yippeeeeeeeeee Melanie I am ready to go......

[Disneygrl36]

So today at work I start having these sharp twingy pains under my right rib cage...........kinda scary. I am a nurse & sometimes that is a bad thing because I start to worry more because I know too much. So they get worse after I eat lunch...I am worried about gallstones & HELLO PEOPLE I HAVE A TRIP IN 3 DAYS NOW..........I CANNOT BE SICK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I start to freak out abit. The doctor I was working with today kinda blew me off abit...she's new & we were really busy. I call my sis-in-law who's a doc & she says leave work & come here & I will take a look at you. So, it's probably a gallstone which I knew already.......but probably not something that will keep me from going on the trip........GOOD BECAUSE I AM GOING ANYWAY!!!!!!!! I had labs this afternoon & have to have a gallbladder ultrasound in the morning. So say prayers etc that this is no big deal, because I would be CRUSHED if I couldn't go on this trip that we have been planning for 10 months.

[Disneygrl36]

Ok, with the day I have had here's what I want to think about..........
Beautiful Castaway Cay.........
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2276.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2303.jpg

I can't wait to spend another day here & this time I hope it's a :sunny: & warm day..........I think I deserve that.

[mruhaak]

Here's another one for you:

http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z270/mruhaak/vacation_06_177.jpg

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

I just want to let you know I'll be thinking of you tomorrow and I am hoping for the best! Nothing can mess with your cruise! Sending you some pixie dust! pixiedust:

[Babs417]

pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Oh no! I hope that you feel better for your cruise.:hug:

[FauntleroyFAN07]

Hope you feel better and thanks for the pictures of castaway cay.

i love the picture of the flying dutchman. very erie.

[Hedy]

pixiedust: pixiedust:

[birkner]

So today at work I start having these sharp twingy pains under my right rib cage...........kinda scary. I am a nurse & sometimes that is a bad thing because I start to worry more because I know too much. So they get worse after I eat lunch...I am worried about gallstones & HELLO PEOPLE I HAVE A TRIP IN 3 DAYS NOW..........I CANNOT BE SICK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I start to freak out abit. The doctor I was working with today kinda blew me off a bit...she's new & we were really busy. I call my sis-in-law who's a doc & she says leave work & come here & I will take a look at you. So, it's probably a gallstone which I knew already.......but probably not something that will keep me from going on the trip........GOOD BECAUSE I AM GOING ANYWAY!!!!!!!! I had labs this afternoon & have to have a gallbladder ultrasound in the morning. So say prayers etc that this is no big deal, because I would be CRUSHED if I couldn't go on this trip that we have been planning for 10 months.


Fingers and toes crossed for you not to have problem with gallstones. I had acute cholecystitis (gallstones) and was able to postpone surgery for a few months by remaining on an extremely low fat diet.

Here is hoping that you just have something very minor. Being on an extremely low fat diet is not conductive to cruising!! :pixiedust:

[Disneygrl36]

I just want to let you know I'll be thinking of you tomorrow and I am hoping for the best! Nothing can mess with your cruise! Sending you some pixie dust! pixiedust:

pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust:

Oh no! I hope that you feel better for your cruise.:hug:

Hope you feel better and thanks for the pictures of castaway cay.

i love the picture of the flying dutchman. very erie.

pixiedust: pixiedust:

Fingers and toes crossed for you not to have problem with gallstones. I had acute cholecystitis (gallstones) and was able to postpone surgery for a few months by remaining on an extremely low fat diet.

Here is hoping that you just have something very minor. Being on an extremely low fat diet is not conductive to cruising!! :pixiedust:

Thanks for all the pixiedust & well wishes.
I had an ultrasound this morning & it didn't show anything..no stones in the gallbladder so who knows where the pain is coming from, but the good news is that my labs & the ultrasound means I can travel with the peace of mind that my gall bladder isn't ready to bust. :banana: Pain is better today.
Thanks for being so kind everybody.

:welcome: to the trippie too......birkner.

[Disneygrl36]

A couple of different ocean views from last years Wonder cruise to get us in the mood for sailing on the ocean blue.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2434.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2447.jpg

[mruhaak]

Glad to hear you're ok. I was worried about you!

I like the bottom photo a lot!

[FauntleroyFAN07]

once again loved the pictures, do they have big gift shops on the cruise ships? I have never seen pictures of them or heard people talk about them. If they do, I bet there is some really awesome stuff on there.

[frdeb1999]

We love the gift shops!! They are pretty good sized and have lots of different items in them....and where else can you run your final bill up that quickly!! ;) :)

[frdeb1999]

Love the pics!! Makes me wish it were August again already!! So glad your feeling better....and hope you have a absolutely wonderful time!! Can't wait to hear about it all!! :)

[Disneygrl36]

Glad to hear you're ok. I was worried about you!

I like the bottom photo a lot!
I :love: that picture too. Thanks for the worrying Melanie. It means alot when people care. I felt good all day today. Whatever it is has calmed down & let's hope it stays that way.

once again loved the pictures, do they have big gift shops on the cruise ships? I have never seen pictures of them or heard people talk about them. If they do, I bet there is some really awesome stuff on there.

I'll take some pictures for you Dan. There are 2 nice gift shops & a duty free shop in the adult entertainment district too.

Love the pics!! Makes me wish it were August again already!! So glad your feeling better....and hope you have a absolutely wonderful time!! Can't wait to hear about it all!! :)

:welcome:frdeb1999. I plan on having a wonderful time & I cannot wait to leave Friday morning for this long anticipated trip.

[Disneygrl36]

What is one thing we all anticipate on a cruise????????? Food...here are a couple of food pictures from last year for us all to drool over.

Palo brunch desserts
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2417.jpg
Palo dinner........gelato sampler
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2322.jpg
Breakfast buffet
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2269.jpg

Ok, now I'm hungry how about you..........

I will try to make another post tomorrow & a final post before we leave Friday morning.
Tonight was a quick clean of the house......
Tomorrow night we have to do the final packing........
Friday morning we leave............:cool1: :banana: :cool1: :banana:

[Jennifer48]

Melanie your MP costume is awesome! I can't wait to see pictures with you in it! Where did you find the great parrot umbrella?

Its almost time now! :cool2:

[FauntleroyFAN07]

I'll take some pictures for you Dan. There are 2 nice gift shops & a duty free shop in the adult entertainment district too.


okay great thanks, what is a duty free shop?

What is one thing we all anticipate on a cruise????????? Food...here are a couple of food pictures from last year for us all to drool over.

Palo brunch desserts
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2417.jpg
Palo dinner........gelato sampler
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2322.jpg
Breakfast buffet
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2269.jpg

Ok, now I'm hungry how about you..........

I will try to make another post tomorrow & a final post before we leave Friday morning.
Tonight was a quick clean of the house......
Tomorrow night we have to do the final packing........
Friday morning we leave............:cool1: :banana: :cool1: :banana:
At first when I saw those I forgot about teh Mickey statue, and was like that is awesome you get a statue with your meals.

Silly me.

ON another note, I am very new to the whole cruise thing as you may tell, but I thought I heard that you can get as much to eat on a cruise that you want. Is this true, like I could order to entrees?

How about the deserts, can you get a few different ones?
I think I will explode if this is the case.

[mruhaak]

Melanie- When do you leave? Will you be logging on on the ship at all. I won't blame you if you don't. But I know some people do...

To answer the above questions- Yes you can order as much as you can on a cruise. Normally your waiter will not have a problem bringing you another entree... There is a lot to eat on a cruise.. you really have to be kind of careful not to come home bigger than the ship:rotfl:

A duty free shop is a place where you can buy certain items without any taxes on them, (because you are not in a country but at sea) usually there is liquor and perfume and cigars, that sort of thing. Maybe Melanie has a better explanation...

[Disneygrl36]

Melanie your MP costume is awesome! I can't wait to see pictures with you in it! Where did you find the great parrot umbrella?

Its almost time now! :cool2:
I ordered the umbrella & hat from Disney shopping. They are exact replicas of the originals.

okay great thanks, what is a duty free shop?


At first when I saw those I forgot about teh Mickey statue, and was like that is awesome you get a statue with your meals.

Silly me.

ON another note, I am very new to the whole cruise thing as you may tell, but I thought I heard that you can get as much to eat on a cruise that you want. Is this true, like I could order to entrees?

How about the deserts, can you get a few different ones?
I think I will explode if this is the case.

It would be really cool if a Mickey statue came with your food. My new Pirate Mickey can't wait to get his picture taken with lots of stuff to show you guys when we get back.

What the other Melanie told you below is right.....you can eat as much as you want.....want 2 entrees no problem. 2 dessert no problem. Lord, I am going to gain weight on this trip I know I will. Also duty free is tax free & that is mostly just like the other Melanie said too.

Melanie- When do you leave? Will you be logging on on the ship at all. I won't blame you if you don't. But I know some people do...

To answer the above questions- Yes you can order as much as you can on a cruise. Normally your waiter will not have a problem bringing you another entree... There is a lot to eat on a cruise.. you really have to be kind of careful not to come home bigger than the ship:rotfl:

A duty free shop is a place where you can buy certain items without any taxes on them, (because you are not in a country but at sea) usually there is liquor and perfume and cigars, that sort of thing. Maybe Melanie has a better explanation...

Melanie......we leave tomorrow am. We will leave here about 9am to drive to Nashville to fly out & land in Orlando around 5 & then head to MNSSHP.
I might do a quick log in on-board the ship & do a quick post, but I don't know for sure. If I have time, I will try to give you guys a shout.

Can't believe we leave tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Disneygrl36]

Work went by fast today which was good. My co-workers had me a bday :cake: & gave me a couple new Disney Christmas ornaments as my bday gift. How nice.

Ok, so pedicure is done.
Suitcases are all packed...........
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0236-1.jpg
Car with Captain Mickey is all ready to go..........
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/102_3649.jpg
It's weird Bella our dog is at her grandparents & it is so weird being home without her here. I keep looking around for her........kinda makes me sad. :dogdance: She will have a nice visit. The ice maker just dropped ice & it is so strange not to hear her charging in there to bark at it.

I am all ready to go. It's weird when you plan a trip so far in advance & count down for so long & then it's finally time to go. Seems almost unreal.

We will leave home around 9am our time & have a 3 hr drive to Nashville. It was worth the drive to save almost 400$ on our plane tickets. We arrive in Orlando around 5pm & will take Magical Express to Wilderness Lodge. Check-in & grab a bite to eat. Then it's off to Mickey's No So Scary Halloween Party to have a spooky good time. Crash & then Tiffany Towncar pickup at 10am Saturday am to take us to port. Yippee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I will try to do a quick good-bye post in the morning!!!!!

[Hedy]

Have fun!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Have a wonderful trip!

[Disneygrl36]

I forgot to post any last year pictures last night so I will leave you with a few night time fun pictures..........
70's night last year DH got to be the Indian in the Village people.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2191.jpg
80's night I got to be a Go-Go
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2255.jpg
Cocktails anyone????????
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2398.jpg
So we are up & about to shower & leave this popsicle stand.
We slept well last night which is unusual for us the night before a trip....we usually have to get up about 4 or 4:30am to fly out of Knoxville at 7am so maybe that is why.......we are taking a later flight out & not worried about oversleeping & missing our flight. Whatever, it is nice to be rested.

I can't believe that in 11 hrs I will be in the Magic Kingdom partying!!!!!!

Thanks to everyone who has been reading along with me so far. I promise to take lots of pictures & keep good notes so I can fill you all in on everything once we get home.

Mary Poppins...............out!!!!!!!!!!!!
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_2942-1.jpg

[FauntleroyFAN07]

To answer the above questions- Yes you can order as much as you can on a cruise. Normally your waiter will not have a problem bringing you another entree... There is a lot to eat on a cruise.. you really have to be kind of careful not to come home bigger than the ship:rotfl:

A duty free shop is a place where you can buy certain items without any taxes on them, (because you are not in a country but at sea) usually there is liquor and perfume and cigars, that sort of thing. Maybe Melanie has a better explanation...

hey thanks for the info, that is awesome, I cant wait to go on a cruise, Might have to talk ol pops into taking me on one, well when the baby arrivees, we can teach its first words "cruise grandpa." anyone think that will work

:goodvibes

[FauntleroyFAN07]

bon voyage, isnt that what they say when you leave, hope the flight down and halloween party is great for you guys, cant wait to see and hear all about the trip.

eat lots for all of us.
:thumbsup2

[Cap'n Jack's Hat]

It's SO exciting!

[mruhaak]

I know! And in a 29 days it's gonna be ME:banana: :banana: :banana:

[miztigg]

have a wonderful trip:woohoo:

[nokidz]

have a blast and remember to take lotsa pics!!pirate:

[kritter]

Anyone hear how the cruise is going. I have heard they are having some rough waters now due to the tropical storm off the coast.

Last year on the Halloween cruise we had seas as high as 15 feet our last night on the ship. I do hope they are not having that this year..

[mruhaak]

Oh I hope not!:sad2: But it might stand to reason with the weather being the way it is.
Was this an Eastern or a Western?

[tyedye]

According to the first post, it's an Eastern, which means they are scheduled for CC on Friday.

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

I can't wait to hear all about it! :banana:
Have a Magical trip! :wizard:

It's time to set sail! :sail:

[CapnJackGroupie]

:cool1: :cool1: :cool1: So excited for you!!! Can't wait to hear all about your cruise. Have a MAGICal time - we know you will!!!:yay: :yay: :yay:

[mruhaak]

Well... they're reporting on the main board that they didn't get to go to Castaway Cay and are in Nassau instead today! Bummer! Sorry Melanie! Also it sounds like they may have had some rough seas! Look forward to hearing from Melanie how it went!

[Disneygrl36]

We are home..................:sad2:

Thanks for all the hello's while we were gone.

We got home around 7pm last night after landing in Nashville around 3, getting something to eat & then driving on home. We unpacked & loved on the :dogdance: & watched Pirates of the Carribean:The Curse of the Black Pearl. Man were we tired. Today it's :laundy: & relaxation. I am uploading pictures right now & hope to get a post up for you guys later today.

In answer to the questions...............YES the seas were rough. The first 2 night & the last 2 nights. We did not watch the news, but the captain kept us up to date on what was going on for the most part. The last 2 night were really bad..........I didn't even want to look outside to see how high the waves were. Eric got a bit green on our 2nd night & I was fine the whole time...........although I will admit to being a bit scared the last night that we might tip over, it felt like the boat was pitching that much. We did get diverted from Castaway Cay as well...........bummer but it was cool being in Nassau because we were docked right next door to the Wonder & that was AWESOME. And guess what that means................I had to book another cruise because I am still awaiting my beautiful day on Castaway Cay.

I will be back later......I have some great surprises for all of you as even with the bad weather this had to be one of our greatest trips EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Welcome back! Can't wait to hear all about! Bummer on missing Castaway Cay but Yay for the new cruise!

[Hedy]

Welcome home!

[mruhaak]

Welcome Back!:goodvibes
Look forward to hearing all about it!

[sasser05]

Hi there, we were on the cruise with you? Did your costume win, someone mentioned that it did. Yes that last night was very scary and it did feel like we were going to tip over around midnight.
But overall it was a great week, and we as well rebooked!

[Disneygrl36]

Welcome back! Can't wait to hear all about! Bummer on missing Castaway Cay but Yay for the new cruise!
:yay: for the new cruise & possibly 2 days at Castaway Cay...unless we decide to push it forward we rebooked for Oct 25, 2008
Welcome home!
Thanks!!!!! It's nice to be home in some ways, but really sad in others.
Welcome Back!:goodvibes
Look forward to hearing all about it!
Thanks Melanie.......I look forward to telling all my stories. It will help draw the vacation out.
Hi there, we were on the cruise with you? Did your costume win, someone mentioned that it did. Yes that last night was very scary and it did feel like we were going to tip over around midnight.
But overall it was a great week, and we as well rebooked!
Shhhhhhhh it's a secret-I'm not telling until I get there. :goodvibes: It was a great cruise...glad we didn't tip over & drown. I am still rocking a little bit today, but it isn't as bad as the last time I cruised.

[Disneygrl36]

So we left out to Nashville around 9am & made good time getting there. It was a quick easy trip & we knew we were saving money so that made it even better. Of course, we had to represent our vacation with the proper antenna ball.....
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0240-1.jpg
Nashville's airport isn't that large which surprised me & they only had one metal detector on our side which really slowed going through security down. I was worried about getting my Mary Poppins umbrella on the plane, but as you can see below no worries it made it through easily.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0242.jpg
Here is a picture of the beautiful clouds we were floating above, we never knew that underneath all that it was grey in Orlando...but we had nice weather for the party despite the greyness with only a few sprinkles & it wasn't too hot which was wonderful.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0243.jpg
We landed & headed straight for Magical Express & we didn't have to wait too long until we were on our way to the Wilderness Lodge.....we passed right by the entrance to the Magic Kingdom on our way & saw the Halloween decorations right away.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0246.jpg
We were finally here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We checked right in & went straight to our villa.
We even had a Mickey towel creation waiting on our bed for us.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0247.jpg
We looked around a bit & then headed straight to Roaring Forks for some sandwiches for dinner which were very large & filling. Next we caught the bus to the Magic Kingdom & arrived right after 7:10. Ta da!!!!!!!!! We were ready to party with Mickey & crew.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0446.jpg

Next up..............Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween party & did I finally get a picture of the Headless Horseman??????????

[Hedy]

Yay arriving!

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

I am glad to hear you made it home safely and survived the cruise. I was hoping everything went okay on the cruise for you. That stinks that you had to miss Castaway Cay, but like you said...a great excuse for another Disney Cruise! ;)

I can't wait to hear about your trip to MNSSHP and see all your pics! :banana:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Great start, I love your Mickey cruise antenna topper!:love:

[Jennifer48]

Welcome back Melanie! Can't wait to hear all about it! :goodvibes

[Babs417]

Keep it up I want to hear it all again but I want it to last I had such a great time.:thumbsup2

[FauntleroyFAN07]

yah you are back and started your report....welcome home


i see that you have booked another trip...do they give you some kind of discount because of missing castaway on this trip?

[Disneygrl36]

Yay arriving!
That was exactly how I felt.
I am glad to hear you made it home safely and survived the cruise. I was hoping everything went okay on the cruise for you. That stinks that you had to miss Castaway Cay, but like you said...a great excuse for another Disney Cruise! ;)

I can't wait to hear about your trip to MNSSHP and see all your pics! :banana:
I know......I was really hoping for a wonderful day on Castaway Cay as I have yet to have one yet, but I respected the captain's decision to keep us safe. And, yes I did use that as a selling point to rebook. We rebooked the double dip for Oct 25th but may move it forward...haven't decided yet.

Great start, I love your Mickey cruise antenna topper!:love:
That is one of my favorites in my collection too!!!!
Welcome back Melanie! Can't wait to hear all about it! :goodvibes
Thanks Jennifer. I am excited to tell you all about it.
Keep it up I want to hear it all again but I want it to last I had such a great time.:thumbsup2
Hi ya Babs :hug: It was great meeting you & I hope writing this report just helps me relive all those great memories all over again.
yah you are back and started your report....welcome home


i see that you have booked another trip...do they give you some kind of discount because of missing castaway on this trip?
Yep, we are back Dan. I sooooo wish they would give you a discount or something special when you miss Castaway Cay due to weather but alas no. You do get a 10% discount & a shipboard credit when you rebook on board though so that is a pretty good deal.

I'm off to work on the next installment.

Thanks everybody for reading so far.

[Disneygrl36]

So, I am sitting here listening to my new Magic Kingdom Event Party Music CD to help inspire me while I write this section of my trip report. It has the music from Hallowishes & the Boo to You Halloween Parade. It is really great music & brings the fireworks & parade right back to you.

So of course we started our party out with a walk down Main Street which was pretty crowded since we were walking in with everyone else that got there at 7pm. I didn't stop to take many pictures because it was so crowded which I would later regret because when we left Main Street was just lit up with white lights instead of all the different colors....Sorry Dan no cool picture to share........this time. I'll get it next time. Reason #1 to head back to MNSSHP soon. :thumbsup2 See I'm sneaky like that..always thinking of reasons to go back.

So we headed towards Adventureland but not before getting to a spot where I could call a DIS buddy that we were cruising with & see if we could meet up. I happened to call just as they were heading up the big hill on Splash Mountain :scared1:. What can I say, I have great timing. We decided we would meet up at Pirates.
Here's a cute picture of DH in front of a huge inflatable Pumba & Timon....
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0257.jpg

So we knew they hadn't had time to make it over to Pirates yet & there was almost no line, so we decided to take a ride with the scurvy Pirates. I just love floating though Davy Jones & spotting Cap'n Jack.
We came out of Pirates & I heard someone call my name........It was my DIS buddy Vital aka Paula. She had sent the other Diser & both their boys on in to ride Pirates while she waited for us. We had a :hug: & started to chat. It was great to finally meet her after getting to know each other on our cruise thread for almost a year. The other Diser Kimmielee & their boys came off & the boys let us chat for a moment. I had coordinated the personalized lime green bracelets for the cruise so I gave them their bracelets too so they would have them in the terminal the next day......we were wearing lime green shirts & bracelets to help us spot each other. The boys wanted to go ride Buzz & we wanted to go ride the wildest ride in the Wilderness so we parted ways. We had a fun night time ride on Big Thunder.......I love this ride at night, it just seems faster & more fun.

Next we had a big date with the 999 ghosts. We were so excited to see the new additions. The cast members outside looked fantastic. Very spooky makeup & cobwebs in their hair. AWESOME. They even had a happy haunt out front chatting us up as we walked along the que.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0272.jpg
I must say that I was absolutely impressed with the NEW Haunted Mansion. I am a traditionalist when it comes to most things Disney so I was a bit worried that I might not like it, but it was awesome. The Mansion looked wonderful & the story line was great. Loved the moving eyes on the wallpaper....you could pick up new things everywhere.
I had my picture made with a CM on the way out because they just looked so spooky!!!!!!!!
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0273.jpg

So next we headed to Fantasyland...we took the scariest ride in the park.......Small World. :lmao: Anybody read Kingdom Keepers? :scared1:
We wanted to fly with Peter & Tink but the line was pretty long so we decided to go see Maestro Mickey & the gang next? Why isn't it Donald's Philharmgic really he is the star of the show. This continues to be one of my absolute favorites & I think I could watch it a million times & still be amazed.

It was getting to be close to fireworks time so we headed back around to the front of the castle. I had remembered seeing good pictures from in front of the Crystal Palace area....but this would turn out to not be a very good location actually as the fireworks were more to the left of the castle with this show & trees there blocked a lot of the lower ones.
Here is one of the only decent pictures I got....
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0285.jpg
I really love these fireworks. The music is great & they have cool projections on the castle & a door bell rings & it is a different villian each time. Very cool. The fireworks feel like the surround you at one point. Awesome!!!

Next up.......to be continued............The Boo to You Parade

[Disneygrl36]

We headed to Frontierland. We like to sit on one of those platforms built around a tree & watch the parade & we hoped we would be able to score our spot. Unlike my bad planning for the fireworks, this worked out well for us.
We sat & had a coke & a pretzel & waited for the fun to begin.

So a little back story. The first time we went to the party we listened to a great story teller recount the story of Ichabod Crane & the Headless Horseman & low & behold a few minutes after he finished here came said horseman. I got so excited that I wasn't able to catch him on film. Fast forward to our 2nd party.......still no dice. I always wait too late & just get a blur or the back of him which isn't as impressive. It really is a cool sight to see with this massive black horse & his horseman carrying his pumpkin head. I will not leave you in suspense......I missed it again. Don't ask me how. My husband was telling me exactly when he was coming but I didn't even get a blur this time.......I blame it on the new camera that I am not used to yet. Reason #2 to go back the WDW & specifically MNSSHP soon.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0356.jpg
The characters are all decked out in costumes or mask & the all look so cute. The first part of the parade is mostly classic characters.
Doesn't Dopey look adorable?
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0360.jpg
How cute is Eeyore????
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0369.jpg
Next up are the scurvy pirates.........this is a really cool float.
Mr Smee
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0381.jpg
And of course, Captain Jack Sparrow must make an appearance.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0389.jpg
Next up is my favorite part of the parade......the Haunted Mansion section.
The dancers.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0393.jpg
This is a video of the dancers......I just love watching them & the Gravediggers.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/th_100_0392.jpg (http://s18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/?action=view&current=100_0392.flv)
Next up a hoe-down Disney style with classic Disney characters.
Clarabelle Cow
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0398.jpg
And Chip with a pretty cowgirl.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0400.jpg
They were followed by the Villians & a rockin' skeleton band.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0405.jpg
Bringing up the rear is Goofy & his candy company section.
The Goof himself
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0420.jpg
And his cute float that has a broom on the back to clean up the mess. :rotfl:
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0421.jpg

What a great parade. The music is addicting so of course we paraded ourselves over to Toontown next in search of Potato Head parts & the soundtrack.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0423.jpg
We only bought the CD because I already had most of the parts they had there. Reason #3 to come back real soon-I really need new potato parts.

It was getting pretty late at this point as we had watched the 2nd parade.
We wanted a ride on the TTA & it was nice seeing all the sights as we took our ride. We took on the evil Emperor Zurg next & my DH beat me as always.
We walked back over to see if we could fly over Neverland & were successful this time & cheered on Peter Pan & Wendy as they triumphed over mean old Captain Hook.

We took a Midnight ride on the Haunted Mansion.....as we thought that was the best way to end our Halloween Party Night. I think we were the last 2 riders & it was a bit spooky in the attic with Madame Leota when we looked to our right & saw that there was no one else in the doom buggies.

Next up.....
A few more Halloween Party decoration pictures & oh yeah aren't we cruising tomorrow & shouldn't we be in bed already? :confused3

[VacationKicks]

Great trip report and you haven't even gotten to the cruise yet! I love the MNSSHP photos, I went once and seeing the pics bring it all back!:woohoo:

[Hedy]

I love the MNSSHP pics!

[klj27]

I am not much of a parade person but I loved seeing your pics!!

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

Wow! You got some amazing parade photos! :thumbsup2 You sat at one of my favorite parade spots too! ;)

I just bought the Event Party Music CD this weekend and I haven't stopped listening to it! I love it! :banana:

[vital]

Great report so far! You even shared my mad phone answering skills!pirate: I should get a prize for answering the phone right before the big drop! LOLOL!!!!!:rotfl2: :lmao:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Wonderful photos of the party! I hope to go someday.:cutie:

[DreamCruiser100]

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z293/dreamcruiser100/IMG_5579.jpg

[FauntleroyFAN07]

I didn't stop to take many pictures because it was so crowded which I would later regret because when we left Main Street was just lit up with white lights instead of all the different colors....Sorry Dan no cool picture to share........this time. I'll get it next time. Reason #1 to head back to MNSSHP soon. :thumbsup2 See I'm sneaky like that..always thinking of reasons to go back.



Hey good plan, I bet you did that on purpose, I will just have to search some other threads for the picture of main street all light up in colors. Thanks for trying and thinking of me though.


Loved the instalments, and the pictures. Great job, I cant wait to get back and see the new hanuted mansion, it opened the week after we left.:mad:

[mruhaak]

Enjoying your report Melanie!

[Disneygrl36]

Great trip report and you haven't even gotten to the cruise yet! I love the MNSSHP photos, I went once and seeing the pics bring it all back!:woohoo:
The cruise will be coming up soon. This was the perfect way to start out a Halloween cruise.
I love the MNSSHP pics!
Thanks. I :love: the Halloween party.
I am not much of a parade person but I loved seeing your pics!!
It's a cool parade.
Wow! You got some amazing parade photos! :thumbsup2 You sat at one of my favorite parade spots too! ;)

I just bought the Event Party Music CD this weekend and I haven't stopped listening to it! I love it! :banana:
I love being able to sit down & watch the parade comfortably from there. I saw you got some great shots too. I love the CD. I am liking the Pirate & Princess party music on there too. Might have to plan on getting down there for one of those soon.
Great report so far! You even shared my mad phone answering skills!pirate: I should get a prize for answering the phone right before the big drop! LOLOL!!!!!:rotfl2: :lmao:
Thanks Paula. I was surprised you answered when I found out where you were. That is the mark of a true friend. :thumbsup2
Wonderful photos of the party! I hope to go someday.:cutie:
Plan on it....it soooo fun.
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z293/dreamcruiser100/IMG_5579.jpg
My fellow cruiser Pam just gave you a sneak preview of Mary & Bert.....boy I hate my double chin. :scared1: try as I might it is still there....I am not sure it will ever go away even if I loose more weight. Boy did we have fun being Mary & Bert.

Hey good plan, I bet you did that on purpose, I will just have to search some other threads for the picture of main street all light up in colors. Thanks for trying and thinking of me though.


Loved the instalments, and the pictures. Great job, I cant wait to get back and see the new hanuted mansion, it opened the week after we left.:mad:
The Haunted Mansion is awesome...it was great before but now it is really cool. I do love that picture of the MNSSHP Main Street. Let me know if you find it as I might have to print one out for my photo album.

Enjoying your report Melanie!
Glad you are liking it!!!!!! Lots more to come.

[DreamCruiser100]

EEEKKK Sorry Melanie, Was I suppose to pm you that picture....maybe you didn't even ask for it.........I'm blonde remember:goodvibes hope I didn't ruin any suprises!!

[Hedy]

Practically perfect version of Mary.

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

I just saw the sneak peak picture! You two look amazing! :yay: What a perfect Mary Poppins & Bert you two make!

[Babs417]

This is so great Im loving it You should win a prize for best report!:thumbsup2 :3dglasses :flower3:

[libpetersen]

Your costumes rock! I love it, and thanks for the trip report!:cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Great costume! It turned out really well.:goodvibes

[Disneygrl36]

EEEKKK Sorry Melanie, Was I suppose to pm you that picture....maybe you didn't even ask for it.........I'm blonde remember:goodvibes hope I didn't ruin any suprises!!
No problem Pam. I asked on our cruise thread if anybody had any pictures. You didn't ruin anything. I had already posted pictures of the costumes in the pre-trip report. I haven't given away anything about the contest yet. :goodvibes: Thanks for posting it as I now have another picture of us.

Practically perfect version of Mary.
Thanks it was really fun to dress up as Mary.

I just saw the sneak peak picture! You two look amazing! :yay: What a perfect Mary Poppins & Bert you two make!
Awww thanks Lindsey.

This is so great Im loving it You should win a prize for best report!:thumbsup2 :3dglasses :flower3:
I am glad you are enjoying it Babs :hug:

Your costumes rock! I love it, and thanks for the trip report!:cool1: :cool1: :cool1:
Woohoo we rock!!!!!!! :welcome: to the report.

Great costume! It turned out really well.:goodvibes
Thanks Lessa. I think it turned out great too!!!!

I'll get another installment up tonight after work.

[buffy0214]

I just found your trip report! I love your costumes. You guys look so cute:cutie:

I'm a scrapbooker, too. Although, mainly I collect things to scrap with. It's so much easier to find time to shop:laughing:

Can't wait to hear about the cruise. Our family did the MNSSHP for the first time this year and I'm trying to talk DH into a cruise.

[TotallyAngelic]

What fantastic costumes - you both looked amazing! Did you wear these for the MNSSHP or the cruise halloween party (or both?). I bet you got loads of attention! The costumes are stunning!

[Disneygrl36]

I just found your trip report! I love your costumes. You guys look so cute:cutie:

I'm a scrapbooker, too. Although, mainly I collect things to scrap with. It's so much easier to find time to shop:laughing:

Can't wait to hear about the cruise. Our family did the MNSSHP for the first time this year and I'm trying to talk DH into a cruise.
:welcome: Buffy!
I :love: scrapbooking. I spend way too much money on supplies...but I do find that I look at my scrapbooks often to relive my trips so I think it's worth it. Get your DH to read some cruise trip reports.....that will help talk him into it.

What fantastic costumes - you both looked amazing! Did you wear these for the MNSSHP or the cruise halloween party (or both?). I bet you got loads of attention! The costumes are stunning!
Thanks....I loved the way our costumes turned out. We only wore them for the Cruise Halloween party. I thought about wearing them to MNSSHP too, but I really didn't want them to get too messed up for the cruise. We got alot of attention........more about that later. :goodvibes:

I'm off to write another installment.

[Disneygrl36]

So we left off after our midnight ride on the Haunted Mansion. As we were leaving, I had to snap some more photos of the great decorations for the party. The details are always the thing that impress me the most at Disney.
I like this shot I took of the castle....a different perspective.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0426.jpg
This big eye watched over Main Street all night.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0431.jpg
Lovely sign post.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0435.jpg
The pumpkin people were my favorite
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0438.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0440.jpg
And so we finally left & took one last look at the train station before heading to a bus.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0442.jpg

We didn't have to wait long & we were back at the Wilderness Lodge. We got a drink & relaxed for a few minutes. We were still pretty excited from the party & excited that we were finally cruising the next day, but we were also pretty tired so we finally went to sleep.

The next morning we ate a hearty breakfast at Roaring Forks...a bacon egg & cheese croissant for me & an adult breakfast combo for DH. It was good & filling. Then we spent some time exploring around the Wilderness Lodge. This was our first time staying there & we wished we had more time. We will definetly be back for a longer stay here. It is simply beautiful.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0455.jpg
We went outside & saw a cute bunny along with the beautiful view & landscaping all around the pool.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0460.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0449.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0462.jpg
We went back over to the villas because it was getting close to time for us to leave.
Villa's Lobby
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0470.jpg
Walt would love the room they have at the Villa's called the Iron Spike room. It is all train themed. They have this really cool painting of Walt.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0466.jpg
They also have 2 of the original train cars from the Carolwood Pacific railroad that Walt had in his back yard. I thought that was really COOL!!!!
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0468.jpg

After our exploring, we went back to get ready to head to Port Canaveral. We had Tiffany Towncar picking us up at 10am. We got our luggage together & headed to the main entrance. Our driver was waiting for us & we had a very nice ride over to port. He was talkative & told us lots of fascinating things about the Everglades......did you know it was over run with python snakes???? Me either :scared1: He was a great driver & before we knew it we were crossing the bridge & there was the Disney Magic just waiting for us. He dropped us off at the terminal & a nice porter took our luggage & we headed on in to start our cruise.
The terminal is beautiful inside & out.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0473.jpg
Next up...............It's finally time to cruise baby. :banana:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

I love the WL as well. I never want to stay anywhere else at Disney but my family and I are going to give AKL a shot in a few years. I think the WL will always have my heart though.

I am so excited that you are at the port!:banana:

[Kimmielee]

.We came out of Pirates & I heard someone call my name........It was my DIS buddy Vital aka Paula. She had sent the other Diser & both their boys on in to ride Pirates while she waited for us. We had a :hug: & started to chat. It was great to finally meet her after getting to know each other on our cruise thread for almost a year. The other Diser Kimmielee & their boys came off & the boys let us chat for a moment. I had coordinated the personalized lime green bracelets for the cruise so I gave them their bracelets too so they would have them in the terminal the next day......we were wearing lime green shirts & bracelets to help us spot each other. The boys wanted to go ride Buzz & we wanted to go ride the wildest ride in the Wilderness so we parted ways. We had a fun night time ride on Big Thunder.......I love this ride at night, it just seems faster & more fun.



OH MY GOSH MELANIE!! I never paid you for our bracelets!! :scared1: :scared1: :scared1: I'm soooo very sorry... can ya PM me your address again? Bad DISFriend.... Bad DISFriend... Forgive me? :flower3:

I MISS our bar chats... with Vital, a Fat English Gent (with his lovely wife) and the two of you... '09 Double Dip is a must!

I have only gotten this far my dear but your trip report is AWESOME so far! :surfweb:

[Disneygrl36]

I love the WL as well. I never want to stay anywhere else at Disney but my family and I are going to give AKL a shot in a few years. I think the WL will always have my heart though.

I am so excited that you are at the port!:banana:
Me too....that means I get to relive my cruise all over again with you guys.
OH MY GOSH MELANIE!! I never paid you for our bracelets!! :scared1: :scared1: :scared1: I'm soooo very sorry... can ya PM me your address again? Bad DISFriend.... Bad DISFriend... Forgive me? :flower3:

I MISS our bar chats... with Vital, a Fat English Gent (with his lovely wife) and the two of you... '09 Double Dip is a must!

I have only gotten this far my dear but your trip report is AWESOME so far! :surfweb:
Kim........don't worry about it. It's no big deal. You can just promise to buy me a drink of the day on our 09 Double Dip!!!! I miss you guys too. It was sooooo great meeting kindred spirits. We had a great time hanging out with you guys too!!!!!!!!!

[FauntleroyFAN07]

The Haunted Mansion is awesome...it was great before but now it is really cool. I do love that picture of the MNSSHP Main Street. Let me know if you find it as I might have to print one out for my photo album.


Somewhere in my thread, I posted a picture of it...I will have to go and look for it, or just PM me your email address..I should have it in photobucket, and I can email it to you.

[FauntleroyFAN07]

cant wait to see the pictures from the cruise.

thanks for sharing the pictures from around the WL

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

Awwww...what a lovely painting of Walt. I have never seen that before. :goodvibes Thanks for posting it!

[tyedye]

I have a question from page 2 or so... Did you get all the Mr Potato Head parts at Disney in Orlando? I know when I was there this past Aug they had lots you could buy and I wanted to get some of them but my family talked me out of it. Now I want some, so I thought you could get the cruise ones on the ship, but we just returned from a 4 day yesterday and there were no parts available on board. I wonder if you can order this thru Disney mail order thru the parks?

Great pics too, enjoying reading about your trip.

[Disneygrl36]

Somewhere in my thread, I posted a picture of it...I will have to go and look for it, or just PM me your email address..I should have it in photobucket, and I can email it to you.

cant wait to see the pictures from the cruise.

thanks for sharing the pictures from around the WL

Thanks for the picture Dan :thumbsup2
Cruise pictures will be coming up soon!!!!

Awwww...what a lovely painting of Walt. I have never seen that before. :goodvibes Thanks for posting it!
I loved it too......it is soooooooo Walt with his love of trains. Go check out that Iron Spike room next time you are at WL.....lots of details.

I have a question from page 2 or so... Did you get all the Mr Potato Head parts at Disney in Orlando? I know when I was there this past Aug they had lots you could buy and I wanted to get some of them but my family talked me out of it. Now I want some, so I thought you could get the cruise ones on the ship, but we just returned from a 4 day yesterday and there were no parts available on board. I wonder if you can order this thru Disney mail order thru the parks?

Great pics too, enjoying reading about your trip.

:welcome: Tyedye. I got most of my parts at the Once Upon a Story toystore at DTD last year when we went. This year I looked in the shop in Toontown & didn't find anything I really wanted & didn't have enough to fill up a box so I didn't get any. I found a few kits at Walmart too, but those aren't Disney. I am sure you can do Disney mail order if you knew exactly what parts you wanted or I bet you can find some on ebay too! I was sad that I didn't get any new ones this time. The cruise line Captain Mickey...I got at DTD too & I don't remember seeing any parts on the Magic.

To everybody,
Thanks for your patience. The end of the week has been crazy. I promise an update tomorrow!!!!!!!!!! :grouphug:

[Disneygrl36]

So when we last left off we were at the port terminal finally getting ready to wait our turn to get on board the Disney Magic for our Cruise Around the Moon---that is the official Disboard name for our cruise. There was a full moon. I couldn't wait & I was getting more & more excited. So we went to get in line with our carry on bags & of course with my Mary Poppins umbrella that I was having to carry everywhere with me. The family behind us was all in matching really cute t shirts & I commented how cute their shirts were & one of the ladies said "Oh you have Mary Poppins umbrella-how cute." I told her I was going to be Mary Poppins for Halloween on my birthday. She said they would have to make sure to see us that night to see the whole costume. We went through security without any problems & made our way up the escalator. I immediately started to spot lime green t-shirts & knew that those people I was seeing were my fellow Moonies-the nickname we had christened ourselves. I remember getting goosebumps & feeling a little misty. Most of us bought matching lime green t-shirts to wear on embarkation so we could spot each other. We made our way over to the Castaway Club member line & had a quick check in & got our Key to the World cards & our Castaway Club lanyards. We got a number 8 boarding pass which was ok with us because we didn't really try to get there really early. Then we went over to hang out & started meeting our fellow Dis cruisers. I gave out more Moonie bracelets. You can see the green bracelet on me in our embarkation photo..those are our personalized bracelets. They say 10/27/2007 DIS Moonies DCL Magical Halloween. They were fun to wear all week & will make a nice keepsake. It was so nice to finally meet some of the people that we had been chatting with for 10 months. We were all excited to meet each other & anticipating finally getting on the ship. We met lots of people & chatted, but one meeting that stands out in my mind was meeting Babs417 who teared up with emotion & made me tear up too!!!! She was just like I thought she would be :hug: She has made these great beaded lime green bracelets & gave everybody one which I wore as an anklet all week. Thanks Babs. We spent quite a bit of time chatting with PJ aka PJPoohbear & her Mom who were from Canada.
I don't know what was wrong with me........I didn't take alot of pictures in the terminal or really in the first few hours on board. I think I was too excited.
This is the very cool model of the ship...the funny thing about this picture is that the couple standing in front of it happened to turn out to be our tablemates & I noticed them in this shot once we got home.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0474.jpg
There is a very cool map of the Caribbean on the terminal floor & here is my shot of Castaway Cay......little did I know this would be my ONLY picture of it since the darn weather foiled our plan to hang out at Serenity Bay the last day of the cruise.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0476.jpg
Those big yellow ears are where you board the ship.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0477.jpg
We hung around & chatted with our fellow disers until people slowly started to go ahead & board the ship. We had to wait our turn until our number was called. I was ready to get on board & get some lunch. They finally called our number. We got our Key to the World card scanned & then had our embarkation photo made.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/000_0004.jpg
Then we headed across the gangplank & walked into that beautiful lobby & were greeted by a castmember who welcomed the McDaniel family on board. :banana: Yippee!!!!!!!!!!!! We were finally here!!!! We looked around at the beautiful lobby, but pretty quickly decided to go on up to Topsiders & get some lunch. We started to make our way through the buffet line & saw a family of fellow Disers eating over to the left. It was Dreamcruiser100 also know as Pam, her husband Bert & their daughter Taylor. They invited us to join them & so we ate lunch while chatting with them which was a great way to start off the cruise. They had upgraded their cabin & were really excited about that. We didn't know that the good stuff---the shrimp was around on the other side. Bert found them & so Eric went & got us some shrimp. I didn't eat alot for lunch. I was too excited. I do remember Eric & Bert were excited by the corn dogs :lmao:. We didn't even eat dessert. :confused3:
We parted ways but knew we would see each other again soon.
Next we went up to join a fellow cruiser in his suite for a glass of bubbly. He had invited us to drop by between 12:30 & 1:30pm. We went to the beautiful category 3 suite & got a grand tour. Why didn't I take pictures of this????? I have no idea. I don't have a single picture of Chris aka A Fat English Gent--but he was such a fun guy & has a beautiful family. They had sailed the Western the previous week as well & were graciously hosting us to welcome us aboard. Others dropped by too & it was so nice to feel like we were starting the cruise off with so many friends already made. We had our glass of bubbly & envied their beautiful room & by then it was 1:30 so we knew we could go & get into our stateroom. So we said our goodbyes & headed off to deck 6 & stateroom 6628 which would be our home for the next week.
We had picked this room out when we booked last year on board our 4 night Wonder cruise. We were on Deck 7 aft then & we decided on Deck 6 aft this time. We like being so close to the back stair case up to Deck 9. It is a good location.
The room was nice & we loved that we had a verandah darling.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0483.jpg
We had a few surprises waiting in our room for us.
My brother & his wife sent us a bottle of champagne for my birthday.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0478.jpg
My Mom & Dad has also given us a nice shipboard credit for both of our birthdays...so that was great.
Our Castway Club present was on the bed.....I love the song above the bed.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0484-1.jpg
One thing that wasn't in our room was the box that I had mailed to the ship. I called down to guest services after asking our new friend Phillip our room steward if he knew anything about it which he did not & neither did guest services. I started to panic a little bit because all my fish extender treats & the treats for the kids trick or treat were in there. We decided we would go check at guest services in person.
The famous split bathroom.........
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0489.jpg
I still can't believe a grown man tried to take a bath in that tub....if you have never read Sleepydogs trip report I highly recommend it. That is one of the funniest things I have ever read.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0490.jpg
I went out on the verandah & watched them loading things on the ship. Look at those pumpkins.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0481.jpg
I had brought my door decorations in my carry on so I used this time to put them up.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0518.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0517.jpg
It was a very colorful & full door!!!!!!! Very easy to find.
We relaxed & drank our champagne........woo hoo :woohoo:
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0488.jpg
We called the parental units to let them know we were safely on the boat & we would talk to them in a week. I also called my brother & thanked him for the champagne & he said "well I wanted to get you drunk for your 40th birthday so since you left this was the only way I could do it." :rotfl: It did go straight to my head as champagne often does so I was extra happy.

Up next: 3pm Dismeet & that darn drill...............& will my box arrive?:scared1:

[Hedy]

I love your door decorations!

[KimAshton]

What a great way to celebrate your birthday. Love the door.

[Babs417]

I felt like the Mad Hatter that day:dance3:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Great door decorations!

The room looks really nice. I am booked in an aft room as well so I am happy to hear that you like the location. :goodvibes

[MAGICFOR2]

Hi! I've been lurking - all caught up and look forward to sailing with you!

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

Your door is amazing! :eek:
What is all of the stuff hanging on the side in the pockets?

You two are rockin' those lime green shirts! :thumbsup2

I just love your room too!
What did you get in the tote bag? :rolleyes:

[Disneygrl36]

I love your door decorations!
Thanks I had a good time doing that. I had some help along the way. Fellow diser/cruiser Pam made me the sign that is Mary Poppins themed & there is also a "Jessie's Girl" sign on there she made me. Another fellow diser made me the cute Halloween bday cake design.

What a great way to celebrate your birthday. Love the door.
It was an awesome birthday!!!!!!! I would celebrate on DCL again in a heart beat.

I felt like the Mad Hatter that day:dance3:
Yes it was a busy day.....but it was so much fun.

Great door decorations!

The room looks really nice. I am booked in an aft room as well so I am happy to hear that you like the location. :goodvibes
The rooms are nice & having the verandah really seems to extend it & make it feel more spacious. We really like being aft. I hope you like it as well.

Hi! I've been lurking - all caught up and look forward to sailing with you!
:welcome: Magicfor2. I see you have the Double Dip booked. That is what we have booked, but we might move it forward we haven't decided yet. Either way, you will love cruising for Halloween. It was so much fun.

Your door is amazing! :eek:
What is all of the stuff hanging on the side in the pockets?

You two are rockin' those lime green shirts! :thumbsup2

I just love your room too!
What did you get in the tote bag? :rolleyes:
Hi Lindsey..........thanks. I wanted our door to stand out & I think it did & I had to show my DIS pride. :banana:
The thing to the left of the door is called a fish extender. It has pockets & that is where I put our dry erase board for notes because there wasn't room on our door cause I had it so covered. We brought along treats to put in each others fish extenders so we would come back to the room & find little presents in it all week. More on that later in trippie.
I wasn't sure I was getting DH in the lime green t-shirt, but he gave in & caved to the green pressure. :lmao: It was fun spotting the lime green tshirts in the terminal........I forgot to mention in my trippie that I got goosebumps!!!!!

[Disneygrl36]

I went back & added a few things to the last installment.......mostly about meeting fellow disers that I forgot to include & wanted to make sure was in there....because I will print this off & put it in my scrapbook when all is said & done.

[ALawley]

Hey Melanie & Eric,

It's your neighbors, Tim & Audie! I was so excited to come upon your trip report! We did have a blast and it was way too fun to get to meet ya'll! I cannot wait to share your thread with the rest of the crew in the 'cute matching Tshirts'...we all rebooked as well, but later in November!

blessings,
audie

[MAGICFOR2]

Melanie, Yeah DD! :banana: What is your sail date? Are you coming with us?
I'll get you the link to our thread!!!

[Disneygrl36]

Hey Melanie & Eric,

It's your neighbors, Tim & Audie! I was so excited to come upon your trip report! We did have a blast and it was way too fun to get to meet ya'll! I cannot wait to share your thread with the rest of the crew in the 'cute matching Tshirts'...we all rebooked as well, but later in November!

blessings,
audie

Hi ya Audie :hug: That is sooooooooo awesome that you found my trip report & I already had mentioned you. We had a great time too...it was a wonderful trip despite the weather.
:welcome: & so glad you will be reading along.....you will be popping up again in the next installment.

Melanie, Yeah DD! :banana: What is your sail date? Are you coming with us?
I'll get you the link to our thread!!!
We did book the Oct 25th 2008 DD but we are probably planning on moving it forward to 2009 but we haven't decided yet, so we might be joining you.

I'll be back with an installment..................

[Disneygrl36]

So we left off with us tipsy from champagne & with a date for a 3pm Dis meet. I think we drank the whole bottle except for 1 glass each before we left the room. We decided to head on up to the Goofy pool to meet up with our fellow Dis cruisers as we were all planning on getting a group photo in our lime green shirts. It was easy to spot us & we enjoyed hanging out & chatting with people. I think I finished giving out the rest of the bracelets at this point & we got a really cool door sign made for all of us cruising by Cruisecrzy. We weren't a huge group but we were a pretty tight one. Lots of us had really bonded & it was nice to share moments with people we already knew all throughout the cruise. I was pretty silly from my champagne & tried to take a picture of Paula & Kim & they had a big laugh out of me already because I had the lens cap on......:lmao:. I also went on up to do the Cha-cha slide with Trent the cruise staff director & the kids. I got my dance on pretty quick for a 3pm on a Saturday afternoon. :banana:
Here's the group photo........but there are quite a few missing.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/Dismeet-1.jpg
It was getting to be time to head back to the room for the mandatory drill.
So we parted ways with our fellow Moonies & headed back towards the room.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0493.jpg
An aside here..........to say how much I loved getting on the ship by 12 & having time to actually relax & settle in before the drill & sail away. Last year we didn't get there until 2:30 so this was a huge difference & we will never be that late to terminal again. We both remarked how much nicer it was to get there early. Extra money to Tiffany towncar versus taking DCL transfer=priceless extra time to get into cruise mode.

And now back to our story......
We decided to check at guest services about my box. They had no record of any box arriving for our cabin & I didn't bring the tracking number with us. They said it would probably not make it & would be waiting for us at home when we got back.
So I am giving an honest account here so I will tell on myself. I got in a regular tiff. When we got back to the room I got all upset about the box & pitched a little fit which would do no one any good, but I just hated to think I wouldn't get to hand out all my treats I had spent so much time collecting. DH tried to tell me not to worry about it but I was miffed. We went off to the muster drill with a bit of tension. The muster drill was easy cheesy---we went to Animator's Palate & it was over quickly. We tromped back up to the room to take off the life jackets & at this point I quickly realized I was being stupid as I was about to have the trip of a lifetime & apologized to DH for being a brat. We went on up to Dec 10 to watch the Adventures Away party.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0494.jpg
This is so much fun!!!!!!!!! We danced & sang along & had a good ole' time.
Here is a picture that one of our fellow Diser took of us enjoying the party-you can't miss us in our lime green shirts & this is how I looked for alot of the cruise......the camera in my face.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/MelanieandEricatAdventureParty.jpg
For some reason every one of my pictures from this is blurry maybe because I was having too much fun or could it be the champagne :confused3....but here is the gang dancing away.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0502.jpg
Now it's time for a countdown.............
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/th_100_0499.jpg (http://s18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/?action=view&current=100_0499.flv)
It is so lovely to hear that horn blow & now it was time to set sail. :sail:
We hung around for a few minutes & then headed on back to our cabin to watch us set sail from our verandah......
Wave goodbye to Mickey & Port Canaveral
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0509.jpg
Here we are heading out to sea..........
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0511.jpg
Our next door neighbors came out to watch too & it was the lady that I had chatted with about being Mary Poppins for Halloween & her husband. She said "It's Mary Poppins" & we chatted for a few minutes until everyone realized it was getting late & it was time to get ready for the evenings activities. How cool is that someone we chatted with upon arrival ended up being our next door neighbor????
We went back in & most all of our bags were there so we unpacked & got organized while we drank our final glass of birthday champagne. We were pretty tired after our long night at MNSSHP the night before & all the excitement of today, so we decided to skip the Welcome Aboard show & just rest a little bit. We laid down to take a nap. About 15 or 20 minutes later there was a knock at the door...we had the privacy sign out........what could that be????? DH jumps up & looks outside & lo & behold it was my box!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :banana: Yippeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!! I was so glad it had arrived & Phillip our room steward said he knew I was looking for it & when he found it he got excited & knocked before he saw the privacy sign. I can't believe I didn't get a picture of Phillip from the Phillipines because he was so good to us all week.

We had late seating & our dinner time was 8:30 & our rotation was Lumiere's, Animators & Parrot Cay....so tonight we were in Lumiere's. There were 2 couples at the table when we went to sit down & we ended up just the 6 of us that night----the other couple remained a mystery until the next to the last night of the cruise. We had great table mates. Mary & Ellis from Alaska who were the couple that ended up in my picture of the model ship in the terminal. The other couple was Robin & Brian from Florida well originally Pennsylvania but Florida now. We all chatted & had a wonderful dinner. I didn't take a single picture of my food this day, but dinner was wonderful. I had a shrimp medley appetizer, vichyssoise soup, herb crusted halibut & grand mariner souffle. It was heavenly & the atmosphere in Lumiere's is so beautiful. I took pictures of the restaurant later in the week when we had lunch one day.
We left dinner & can you believe what they were showing on the aerial view screen this night?????????????
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0524.jpg
How perfect is that?????? We watched up to the Jolly Holiday scene & it was really cool being out on deck & watching one of my favorite movies with the wind blowing in my hair. It was AWESOME.
Here's that full moon..........
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0521.jpg
We left in time to get down to Rockin' Bar D to watch Match Your Mate. They were finishing up a contest that involved men in bras & heels & lipstick. An intersting thing to walk in to let me tell you. We ordered a drink & sat back to watch the fun. Our neighbor who we now knew were Audie & Tim got chosen for Match Your Mate. It was a newlywed couple & Audie & Tim who had been married for I think 25 years & then another couple Don & Caroline who had been married for 53 years. It was a HOOT & we got a little TMI about Audie & Tim since they were going to be right beside us all week. :scared1: :rotfl: I wish I had gotten a better picture. We hung around after & Audie & Tim invited us to sit up at there table. We chatted abit & finished our drinks & then decided to call it a night.

We had a terrific 1st day/night of our cruise.......
Here we are in the deserted lobby.......tip to future cruisers........stay out late in the clubs & you can get some great shots alone in the lobby at night.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0530.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0531.jpg

This was waiting for us in our room.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0532.jpg

Up next a day at sea & we win something really cool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

I am so glad that you got your box of goodies, I would have been stressing out about it just like you were.

What a wonderful start to your cruise. The sail off party looks like so much fun!

[THUNDERMOUNTAINMOMMA]

How fun! Happy Birthday!!!:cheer2:

[MAGICFOR2]

Ahh Melanie, thanks so much for posting the count down video - I actually got excited, and got tears in my eyes - it just brought back exactly how I felt when we sailed away for the first time! Lovin' your TR! :cloud9: Our sail date is Sept 27, by the way. We have 412 DISers on our cruise - come join us!!!

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

Look at all that lime green! :eek:
I can't believe there were that many DIS'ers on your cruise! :goodvibes
How fun! Everyone looks so great! :thumbsup2

I can't wait to be on the Magic one day! I really want our next cruise to be a 7-night, 4 is just not enough! ;)

That full moon is so perfect for the cruise theme!
What a great way to begin the Halloween cruise!

Your towel shirt is the most interesting towel design I think I've ever seen! :rotfl:

[Disneygrl36]

What did you get in the tote bag? :rolleyes:
I realized I never answered this.....there are 2 mesh bags great for carrying things to the beach. A couple of plastic Castaway Cay cupsa little journal. some handwipes, a ships funnel plastic toy & a couple of castaway cay flags. Cute.

I am so glad that you got your box of goodies, I would have been stressing out about it just like you were.

What a wonderful start to your cruise. The sail off party looks like so much fun!
Thanks Lessa I was so relieved when it showed up, but I did feel bad for being snippy. The sail off party is a blast.

How fun! Happy Birthday!!!:cheer2:
Thanks it was a great cruise to celebrate.

Ahh Melanie, thanks so much for posting the count down video - I actually got excited, and got tears in my eyes - it just brought back exactly how I felt when we sailed away for the first time! Lovin' your TR! :cloud9: Our sail date is Sept 27, by the way. We have 412 DISers on our cruise - come join us!!!
I know hearing that horn blow brings tears to my eyes. Wow you have a lot of DISers that should be lots of fun.

Look at all that lime green! :eek:
I can't believe there were that many DIS'ers on your cruise! :goodvibes
How fun! Everyone looks so great! :thumbsup2

I can't wait to be on the Magic one day! I really want our next cruise to be a 7-night, 4 is just not enough! ;)

That full moon is so perfect for the cruise theme!
What a great way to begin the Halloween cruise!

Your towel shirt is the most interesting towel design I think I've ever seen! :rotfl:
It was a great group of DISer's to sail with. :thumbsup2
I know I had to take a picture of that moon.
You really must take a 7 night---it went by at a nice pace.
He got more creative as the week went by.............I thought the shirt was kinda cute.

[A fat english gent]

Every DISS gang "NEEDS" a Melanie in it,top laugh,top smile 27/7 and a really lovely lady....We miss you kid....:flower3:

[Jennifer48]

We left dinner & can you believe what they were showing on the aerial view screen this night?????????????
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0524.jpg
How perfect is that?????? We watched up to the Jolly Holiday scene & it was really cool being out on deck & watching one of my favorite movies with the wind blowing in my hair. It was AWESOME.


YEY! I literally yelled that out loud when I read that! :woohoo: Melanie I'm so glad you got to see it on the Ariel View at night like we did. It was spectacular to watch up there wasn't it?! :goodvibes

[ReAnSt]

Your door is amazing! :eek:
What is all of the stuff hanging on the side in the pockets?

You two are rockin' those lime green shirts! :thumbsup2

I just love your room too!
What did you get in the tote bag? :rolleyes:

Here is a picture of everything from the tote bag and the Castaway Club lanyards repeat Disney cruisers get at check in

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd33/DCL907/9-8-07%20Embarkation/DSC08855.jpg

Great report thus far and you looked fantastic as Mary Poppins and Bert

[Disneygrl36]

Every DISS gang "NEEDS" a Melanie in it,top laugh,top smile 27/7 and a really lovely lady....We miss you kid....:flower3:
Awwwwwwww Chris now you went and made me all misty. That is the sweetest thing anyone has said about me in a long time. I miss you guys too & am really looking forward to cruising with you & your gang again soon. :hug:


YEY! I literally yelled that out loud when I read that! :woohoo: Melanie I'm so glad you got to see it on the Ariel View at night like we did. It was spectacular to watch up there wasn't it?! :goodvibes
Yes it was sooooooo cool. It was just perfect.

Here is a picture of everything from the tote bag and the Castaway Club lanyards repeat Disney cruisers get at check in

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd33/DCL907/9-8-07%20Embarkation/DSC08855.jpg

Great report thus far and you looked fantastic as Mary Poppins and Bert
Thanks Becky!!! Much more on Mary & Bert's adventures later.

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

Here is a picture of everything from the tote bag and the Castaway Club lanyards repeat Disney cruisers get at check in

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd33/DCL907/9-8-07%20Embarkation/DSC08855.jpg

Great report thus far and you looked fantastic as Mary Poppins and Bert


How nice! :goodvibes
Thanks for posting the pic!
I've just gotta book my second cruise now! :banana:

[FauntleroyFAN07]

So many things i wanna do and try just from the pictures so far...thanks alot..i am doing pretty good at dropping hints to DW about a cruise next year...I am using that her sister goes to school in miami now for 1 bait, and her parents would love to go on a cruise with the new baby next year....and the final one is that with all the credits i am getting from sunshine rewards, we are gonna have a ton of money to put toward paying for a cruise, might even get half of it payed for with those rewards.

great picture and great story telling, glad you got to meet everyone that you did the first day.


Here is a picture of everything from the tote bag and the Castaway Club lanyards repeat Disney cruisers get at check in

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd33/DCL907/9-8-07%20Embarkation/DSC08855.jpg

Great report thus far and you looked fantastic as Mary Poppins and Bert

Question about this...is the only way to get into the castaway club to go on more than 1 cruise.
and is the club free. or when you sign up for your second cruise, then you have to pay for the club...i want that stuff, and it means going on 2 cruises then i guess i have to...all aboard..wait that is what you say when boarding a train..

anchors up...does that sound right?
:banana:

[Kimmielee]

Every DISS gang "NEEDS" a Melanie in it,top laugh,top smile 27/7 and a really lovely lady....We miss you kid....:flower3:

Well said my friend, well said. Our Cruising family consists of a very merry Melanie and a very friendly Eric. They rock!! :thumbsup2 Ok, the ship rocked too... literally. It rocked. A lot. :lmao:

[ALawley]

oh i am just lovin' the report....still dreaming of our days on the ship! we booked for nov. 15th sail date on the Magic to the Western Caribbean! Our friends who we were sailing with did the same. so if your pushin' back consider those dates as well, no problem to add a new family to the T's! love your pics & videos! can't wait to see the rest!
audie

[vital]

Y'all have no idea how glad I was to hear some more southern accents! I'm gonna have to use my southern charm to get you 2 on the '09 Double Dip!pirate:

[Disneygrl36]

So many things i wanna do and try just from the pictures so far...thanks alot..i am doing pretty good at dropping hints to DW about a cruise next year...I am using that her sister goes to school in miami now for 1 bait, and her parents would love to go on a cruise with the new baby next year....and the final one is that with all the credits i am getting from sunshine rewards, we are gonna have a ton of money to put toward paying for a cruise, might even get half of it payed for with those rewards.

great picture and great story telling, glad you got to meet everyone that you did the first day.

Question about this...is the only way to get into the castaway club to go on more than 1 cruise.
and is the club free. or when you sign up for your second cruise, then you have to pay for the club...i want that stuff, and it means going on 2 cruises then i guess i have to...all aboard..wait that is what you say when boarding a train..

anchors up...does that sound right?
:banana:

Anchors away maybe Dan?????????
The club is free & the only way I know to be a member & get that bag is to take a cruise & then you are automatically a member. Now get to booking that cruise young man......you guys would love it.
It was so cool to meet all my Disfriends!!!!!!

Well said my friend, well said. Our Cruising family consists of a very merry Melanie and a very friendly Eric. They rock!! :thumbsup2 Ok, the ship rocked too... literally. It rocked. A lot. :lmao:
It sure did rock & you guys are being so sweet. We were like a little family weren't we. I can't imagine meeting nicer people. We really enjoyed hanging out with you guys.

oh i am just lovin' the report....still dreaming of our days on the ship! we booked for nov. 15th sail date on the Magic to the Western Caribbean! Our friends who we were sailing with did the same. so if your pushin' back consider those dates as well, no problem to add a new family to the T's! love your pics & videos! can't wait to see the rest!
audie
Audie........I am glad you are enjoying my report. Did you get any good pictures of you guys up on stage for Match Your Mate????? Thanks for the invite to join your tshirt crew. You guys were great neighbors.

Y'all have no idea how glad I was to hear some more southern accents! I'm gonna have to use my southern charm to get you 2 on the '09 Double Dip!pirate:
I remember you saying this Paula. No charm necessary I think we have already decided now I just hope that we can all coordinate & book at the same time. I really do feel like we made great friends on this trip.

[Disneygrl36]

So after a very full first day of cruising. We awoke & went out to take a look at the view.
Here is Pirate Mickey on the verandah.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0537.jpg
After admiring the ocean & it's beautiful blueness, we quickly decided we were HUNGRY!!!!!!!!!!
We headed up to Topsiders for breakfast & boy was it windy out there.
Here's my plate from breakfast with Pirate Mickey to show off my food.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0538.jpg
This one shows how windy it was........Eric's hair is flying in the breeze.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0539.jpg

After breakfast, we went back to the room & I got to work on putting together a goody bag for my fellow Disers to deliver & put in their fish extenders. Thank goodness that box had arrived because it had all these goodies in it. Whew!!!!
Here's a picture of that in progress.........
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0548.jpg
The bags say......A taste of Tennessee from a Dis Friend. Enjoy Ya'll. They contained moon pies for everybody. Moon pies are made in Chattanooga Tennessee about an hour & a half from where we live & they are super yummy. I had orange, banana & chocolate flavored ones. Some of the adult people also got a little bottle of Jack Daniels added into their bags as it is made in Lynchburg Tennessee & makes a darn good cocktail. I had fun putting these together & we delivered some of them.

We also had to make a run to the shops because my rechargeable batteries & charger that I bought for my new camera weren't working. I don't know if it was the plugs in the room not making a good connection or what, but the batteries would not hold a charge. We got some batteries & also a new Mickey Mouse neck strap for the camera in Treasure Ketch & I eyeballed something I knew I wanted to buy before the end of the week & we were off.

There were rumors that Don "Ducky" Williams was sailing with us for quite some time & it was discussed on our Oct 27th thread,but I didn't want to get my hopes up in case it wasn't true. This really excited me as I am a huge Disney animation/art fanantic. So, when I saw on the Navigator that he was doing a drawing class in Animator's Palate at 10:30 I knew we were SOOOOOOOOO there. For those of you that don't know who he is........he is a master illustrator & does character drawings for everything from park brochures to billboards & advertising to special lithographs. He is very cool. More about him later in the trippie as we saw him again on Monday in his formal presentation.
But today......WE GET TO DRAW WITH DUCKY!!!!!!!!
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0554.jpg
How cool is that???? So as we walked into Animators Palate..pefect place for him to teach a drawing class isn't it, he was busy drawing characters. We were handed a raffle ticket & a piece of paper & pencil for our masterpieces. We found a spot & sat & just watched him draw. Let me tell you I was entranced watching those characters come to life.
Here's some video of a true master at work.....sorry about the lens cap moment I was just so excited I think I forgot to turn off the camera. D'oh.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/th_100_0556.jpg (http://s18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/?action=view&current=100_0556.flv)
So he taught us how to draw Mickey Mouse & we had great fun drawing along with him.
Here are the results of our class.......
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/000_0008.jpg
We found out that the raffle tickets were given out because they were going to give away all of the drawings that he had been doing before & throughout the class. :woohoo: I was so excited thinking I might win one. And yes, they called my number & I really scored. I won the Donald Duck. He is famous for his Donald's which is why his nickname is "Ducky". I was soooooo excited.
Here I am after the class with my original Ducky.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0558.jpg
This was a real highlight of the cruise for me & this cruise contained many great things.

After class, we went back to the room & got the rest of my DIS goody bags to deliver & then we were ready for some lunch.

An aside here.........you don't realize how large the ship is until you go tromping up & down those REALLY LONG hallways looking for people's staterooms that are scattered all over the ship. We did this a few times during the week & I am convinced that I walked enough extra steps giving out goodies to fish extenders that I at least walked off one of my desserts for the week. :lmao:

We ate lunch up on deck today. I had pizza from Pinocchio's & Eric had a panini from Goofy's. It was good & fun to eat while watching the ocean.

Up next.........the 3pm DIS scrapbook swap & "Honey I feel a little green."

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

How cool that Duckie Williams was on your cruise and that you won one of his drawings! :banana: I would have loved that!

[MAGICFOR2]

Congrats on scoring an original Donald! That is really special! :banana:

[Disneygrl36]

How cool that Duckie Williams was on your cruise and that you won one of his drawings! :banana: I would have loved that!

Congrats on scoring an original Donald! That is really special! :banana:

Thanks you guys it was really special. I bought a frame for it already but when I got it home it was cracked, so I have to take it back. Once I get it framed I will post a picture of it.

I went back & added the video of him drawing Mickey in too. It took forever to upload & I am sorry about the lens cap.

[poohs4me]

I have to tell you I always haunt the trip report pages - Read, Read and sometimes I even read it again, but I rarely post. Your goody bags inspired me. :thumbsup2 I want one of those. I LOVE, I mean LOVE moon pies and who can resist little jack daniels bottles.

And the Donald is just WONDERFUL!!! I am so envious.

[ktjl92]

Congrats on the Ducky original. I had been hoping to "win" one on the 11-night Southern Caribbean but no such luck. I'm hoping he'll be sailing with us on the WB Panama Canal crossing and I'll have better luck.

One question - how did you manage to get that home in one piece?

[Disneygrl36]

I have to tell you I always haunt the trip report pages - Read, Read and sometimes I even read it again, but I rarely post. Your goody bags inspired me. :thumbsup2 I want one of those. I LOVE, I mean LOVE moon pies and who can resist little jack daniels bottles.

And the Donald is just WONDERFUL!!! I am so envious.
:welcome: poohs4m & I am flattered to have a reader/rare poster decide to post on my trippie. I thought long & hard about what to give out & I just thought it would be cool to give something from my home state...& we have great things. I thought about goo-goo clusters too but I was afraid they would melt all over everything.

Congrats on the Ducky original. I had been hoping to "win" one on the 11-night Southern Caribbean but no such luck. I'm hoping he'll be sailing with us on the WB Panama Canal crossing and I'll have better luck.
One question - how did you manage to get that home in one piece?
:welcome: to you too ktjl92. We went to Treasure Ketch & asked if they had any mailing tubes for sale & they did!!!! I knew there was no other way to get it home without messing it up. Good luck on your next cruise at winning a Ducky. Wow......he is something else isn't he? His story is amazing.

[Babs417]

I was oneof the lucky ones to get a goody bag thanks again:thumbsup2 :cutie: :3dglasses :cool2:

[retiredkid]

wow, all 14 pages in one sitting....( a snack break in there, though)
I love your report. We are sailing on the 7 night Western in March. It's a gift for my DH who will turn 65 on our sailing date!!! I am picking up a lot of pointers from you, and can't wait to read more.
You have a gift. And from all accounts, you are a lovely person as well.
Keep it coming.

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

How exciting! I can't believe you won a picture of Donald! Lucky you! That is so awesome! :banana:

I gotta tell you I am in love with your little pirate Mickey! Where did you get him? He's adorable! :goodvibes

I wish I could have gotten one of those DIS goodie bags! I am obsessed with Moon Pies! Yummy! I love the banana ones! Oh, and I'll take the Jack Daniel's too! ;)

[FauntleroyFAN07]

Anchors away maybe Dan?????????
The club is free & the only way I know to be a member & get that bag is to take a cruise & then you are automatically a member. Now get to booking that cruise young man......you guys would love it.
It was so cool to meet all my Disfriends!!!!!!


anchors away...geeze im a goof...okay i will book one...i am serious, DW is going to be suprised next year when i book her on a cruise for her birthday. I am going to get her parents in on it...that would be awesome, we can split the cost of it plus we will have a baby sitter on board for the little one, so mom and dad can play.

:banana:

[FauntleroyFAN07]

I was so excited thinking I might win one. And yes, they called my number & I really scored. I won the Donald Duck. He is famous for his Donald's which is why his nickname is "Ducky". I was soooooo excited.
Here I am after the class with my original Ducky.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0558.jpg


wow you are the luckiest person every...how much do you want for the picture.

just kidding you can keep it but if you get another you have to give it to donalds biggest fan....me
:donald: :donald:

[Jennifer48]

Congrats on winning the original Ducky! And Donald Duck too! :thumbsup2 :donald:

[Disneygrl36]

I was oneof the lucky ones to get a goody bag thanks again:thumbsup2 :cutie: :3dglasses :cool2:
I am glad you liked your bag Babs. It was fun putting them together & giving them out. I felt like Santa Claus all week.

wow, all 14 pages in one sitting....( a snack break in there, though)
I love your report. We are sailing on the 7 night Western in March. It's a gift for my DH who will turn 65 on our sailing date!!! I am picking up a lot of pointers from you, and can't wait to read more.
You have a gift. And from all accounts, you are a lovely person as well.
Keep it coming.
:welcome: retiredkid. Glad you are enjoying. What a great 65th birthday present. Let me know if you have questions. Thanks for the nice words as well.

How exciting! I can't believe you won a picture of Donald! Lucky you! That is so awesome! :banana:

I gotta tell you I am in love with your little pirate Mickey! Where did you get him? He's adorable! :goodvibes

I wish I could have gotten one of those DIS goodie bags! I am obsessed with Moon Pies! Yummy! I love the banana ones! Oh, and I'll take the Jack Daniel's too! ;)
Me too on the JD in a Lynchburg Lemonade.......mmmmmmm.
One of my fellow cruisers found him on a Christmas stores website & posted it & I thought he would be a perfect mascot so I ordered him. PM me if you want the website because I don't think I am allowed to post it here.

anchors away...geeze im a goof...okay i will book one...i am serious, DW is going to be suprised next year when i book her on a cruise for her birthday. I am going to get her parents in on it...that would be awesome, we can split the cost of it plus we will have a baby sitter on board for the little one, so mom and dad can play.

:banana:
Dan that sounds like a perfect plan....built in baby sitters so you can enjoy the night life. I like the way you think.

wow you are the luckiest person every...how much do you want for the picture.

just kidding you can keep it but if you get another you have to give it to donalds biggest fan....me
:donald: :donald:
I thought of you when I won it honestly & I knew you would be jealous. I know you love trying to draw the characters too from your trippie. You would have loved this class.

Congrats on winning the original Ducky! And Donald Duck too! :thumbsup2 :donald:
Yeah :yeah: I know I was so excited Jennifer.

I hope to have another update for you guys tomorrow or Saturday. It's been a rough week at work.

[jns]

Loving your report :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 Great photos ,
It was wonderful meeting you :hug: and thanks for the braclets and the goodie bag :yay: :yay:

was up on the upperdeck shouting for you at the halloween dress party
think I've some photos have'nt looked at them yet will post when you get to that part of your report :rolleyes1

can't rember seeing your door when myself and DS we giving out our stuff :confused3 hope we didn't miss you lost :headache: the list of everyones room numbers and just went round all the decks looking for them
theres alot of rooms :scared:


looking forward to hearing more soon

[WDW Poly Princess]

I'm finally all caught up! I love your door decorations! And how cool about winning the drawing!!!

[Tink rules]

I've got to tell you... I was watching Ducky drawing in the video and said to myself "Boy, I would LOVE that one behind him of Lady and The Tramp!!!" Then it hit me that that was the wall........ :rolleyes1 Silly me!!!

[FauntleroyFAN07]

I
Dan that sounds like a perfect plan....built in baby sitters so you can enjoy the night life. I like the way you think.


I thought of you when I won it honestly & I knew you would be jealous. I know you love trying to draw the characters too from your trippie. You would have loved this class.


I dropped a feeler last night, i said to DW, would that be awesome if we could get your parents to go on a cruise with us, after i saw a commercial for one.
:thumbsup2
she said "yeah" but not much else, she does not think i am serious, or that her parents would go for it right now. I think it is perfect all there kids are now out of the house, good excuse for them to spend a week with the baby, they live 2 hours away, and there other daughter goes to school in florida, so she could come too...i think it is a win win for everyone.

I knew you thought of me, do they offer those classes on all the cruises, or just a special one that you went on?

So you thought of me, does that mean that you are going to mail me the picture.:thumbsup2

[dizzi]

Melanie.thanks for the Moonpies..............
For years i have gotten up in the middle of the night for a snack and your moon pies came in VERY HANDY!!!!!!!!!

[ALawley]

okay well the coincidences and fun connections just keep on happening....tim & i won a donald 'ducky' williams drawing of DONALD DUCK, toooooo! How cool & weird is that. The cast apparently talked him into a second session, he didn't do his animation class, he just shared his inspiring and amazing journey with the guests and all the while he was drawing and drawing away, he did 27 characters and we won his donald duck character! We took it today to be framed and mounted! Our friends and your other next door neighbors, marvin and sylvia won a cinderella, as well, it is certainly our fav. souvenir from our cruise......we met for dinner this week to share photos and whine that we are not cruisin' still and i shared your trip report with everyone!

keep it comin!
audie

[Disneygrl36]

Loving your report :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 Great photos ,
It was wonderful meeting you :hug: and thanks for the braclets and the goodie bag :yay: :yay:

was up on the upperdeck shouting for you at the halloween dress party
think I've some photos have'nt looked at them yet will post when you get to that part of your report :rolleyes1

can't rember seeing your door when myself and DS we giving out our stuff :confused3 hope we didn't miss you lost :headache: the list of everyones room numbers and just went round all the decks looking for them
theres alot of rooms :scared:


looking forward to hearing more soon
Jackie.....I remember seeing you guys watching from an upper deck. I would love to see your photos if you have any. That was such a fun night.
We did get a little ball that says Ireland on it & I don't think that could have been from anyone else, so I think you probably found us. Those are some long hallways aren't they?????????

I'm finally all caught up! I love your door decorations! And how cool about winning the drawing!!!
Glad to have you here Cyrstal. I was so psyched to have a Ducky. We will go exchange our frame tomorrow & I will post a picture of my Ducky hanging in my home.

I've got to tell you... I was watching Ducky drawing in the video and said to myself "Boy, I would LOVE that one behind him of Lady and The Tramp!!!" Then it hit me that that was the wall........ :rolleyes1 Silly me!!!
LOL That is sooooo funny. I would love to have some of those as well, but I think they are attached to the wall of Animator's Palate---which I wouldn't mind having a room in my home that looked exactly like that. Wouldn't that be cool?

I dropped a feeler last night, i said to DW, would that be awesome if we could get your parents to go on a cruise with us, after i saw a commercial for one.
:thumbsup2
she said "yeah" but not much else, she does not think i am serious, or that her parents would go for it right now. I think it is perfect all there kids are now out of the house, good excuse for them to spend a week with the baby, they live 2 hours away, and there other daughter goes to school in florida, so she could come too...i think it is a win win for everyone.

I knew you thought of me, do they offer those classes on all the cruises, or just a special one that you went on?

So you thought of me, does that mean that you are going to mail me the picture.:thumbsup2
You are good Dan.......but not that good. I am keeping my Ducky. They don't have the animation classes all the time, just when he cruises I think. I know they probably do animation classes with the kids in the clubs no matter what, but I don't think the adults always get to get in on the fun.

Melanie.thanks for the Moonpies..............
For years i have gotten up in the middle of the night for a snack and your moon pies came in VERY HANDY!!!!!!!!!
Lynn, I am soooooo glad my moon pies could come help you in your late night snacking needs. :teeth:

okay well the coincidences and fun connections just keep on happening....tim & i won a donald 'ducky' williams drawing of DONALD DUCK, toooooo! How cool & weird is that. The cast apparently talked him into a second session, he didn't do his animation class, he just shared his inspiring and amazing journey with the guests and all the while he was drawing and drawing away, he did 27 characters and we won his donald duck character! We took it today to be framed and mounted! Our friends and your other next door neighbors, marvin and sylvia won a cinderella, as well, it is certainly our fav. souvenir from our cruise......we met for dinner this week to share photos and whine that we are not cruisin' still and i shared your trip report with everyone!

keep it comin!
audie
Audie.......that is amazing. I know you were probably as excited as I was. I still can't get over you finding my trippie & reading along. That is just really cool. I miss the MAGIC & all my new friends.

[Disneygrl36]

We last left off with us back in the room after our fun with Ducky & a quick lunch. We rested in the room for awhile but it wasn't long before it was time for me to get ready for my 3pm Scrapbook swap with the other DIS ladies.
We had found out that quite a few of us were scrapbookers. We thought it would be fun for us to each bring along 20$ worth of supplies & do a swap for goodies that we might not normally be able to find in our own areas. I had alot of fun coming up with my goody bag & checking out websites to find unique things. The plan was for us to meet in Diversions at 3pm & to have a martini & talk & swap. Well, I got there & didn't see anyone I recognized. I went in & it was mostly guys watching football.....it was Sunday after all. So I waited around outside & Dizzi aka Lynn showed up & we chatted whilst waiting for the others. Dreamcruiser 100's aka Pam's husband Bert showed up with her bag as she was sick from our rocky seas & in her room. I promised to bring some ginger chews to her room later & we told him to tell her she would be missed. A few more people showed up & we decided to go to the Promenade Lounge instead & Lynn waited for a few minutes to catch any stragglers. We were supposed to have a few that were coming just to :drinking1 martini's & join in the chat, but they were MIA. We had a nice group of us though & we enjoyed a drink I( I had a yummy cosmo & a gingerale) & had a nice chat before swapping our supplies & each heading off in our own directions. It was a nice time & I enjoyed meeting more of my DIS cruise buddies.
Here's our picture.........
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0560.jpg
I got some really cool stuff & can't wait for things to slow down abit & I can spend a weekend scrapbooking my little heart out. This trip was so great that I wonder how many pages I will make????????
I think I was gone for over an hour & DH went to the gym---boy he is dedicated & I wish I had his dedication.
We rested in the room for awhile & hung out on our verandah.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0513.jpg
We had 6:30 reservations for Palo for dinner tonight, so we had to get cleaned up & presentable. We decided along time ago to do Palo on formal night because DH didn't really want to do the whole tux thing. So we figured this would be the perfect night to have dinner at the all adult reservation restaurant. So we got gussied up & headed on up to deck 10 for our lovely dinner. It was pretty rocky out there & the floors are beautiful tile so it was a challenge to walk in heels. We were seated at a window view table with a beautiful view. We saw fellow DISer PJPoohbear & her Mom having dinner just a few tables away & said hello again.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0564.jpg
Now at Palo, it's all about the food & the service. So there will be lots of food pictures to follow. It really is a wonderful dining experience & they bring you soooooooooo much food & spoil you rotten. Our server was Toni from Spain & he was wonderful....he brought us his favorites in addition to what we ordered & because of that we tried lots of things. He got a special mention on our comment card at the end of our cruise because he was so great.
Here's the appetizer plate they bring with wonderful cheese, italian ham & olives with several dips for the bread as well. It is heavenly.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0567.jpg
This ended up being our favorite appetizer & we didn't even order it....Toni just brought it.
Calmari.........yummo
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0572.jpg
We also had mozerella & tomato (not that flavorful) & the shrimp appetizer which was wonderful.
In between courses they bring you a wonderful sorbet to cleanse your palate.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0574.jpg
For our main course......I had the filet which was to die for & DH had the scallops.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0577.jpg
This was a side dish extra that Toni brought us.....mushroom risotto which was sooooooooo good. He brought us lobster ravioli too. Wow!!!!!
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0578.jpg
Can you find the hidden Mickey on my plate?????????
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0579.jpg
Dessert..........the finale. We were stuffed, but we always have extra room for sweet stuff.
Raspberry gelato........yummo
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0581.jpg
And the very famous Palo chocolate souffle which if you go you must order.......they poke a hole in it & pour a chocolate & vanilla sauce in it. It is heaven in a ramikin.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0580.jpg
Dinner was heavenly. We were stuffed, but oh so happy. We happily gave Toni a nice extra tip & made our way out of this lovely place, but not before a photo.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/000_0007.jpg
As we left, I about fell on my face because of the ocean swells. I hadn't even had a glass of wine or a cocktail since the scrapbook swap, it was just that wavy out there. DH kept a firm hold on me. We went down to have our photo made with Helsman Mickey since we were all dressed up. We stopped by Shutters & purchased a photo package & got our embarkation photo & then went up to the room to change back into comfortable clothes.
We watched the Golden Mickey's on our in room TV. This wasn't our favorite show on the Wonder, so we decided not to go see it in person. It was cool to be able to watch it in the comfort of the room.

We went up to deck 9 & 10 after that to walk around abit, but wow it was rough & WINDY. It literally felt like the wind was pushing you so we didn't stay out there long.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0587.jpg
We got a soft drink at the beverage station....some sprite because DH was starting to feel a bit green. The plan had been to go to Rockin' Bar D, but we called it an early night after running in to Paula & Kim & chatting for awhile. We did take a run down by Beat Street which was one of our favorite spots during the week before heading on back to the room because Eric just wasn't feeling too great.He took some Bonine that night & the next day & was good to go for the rest of the trip.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0598.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0599.jpg
I know it is weird to take a picture of a bathroom, but this bathroom on Beat Street is really cool.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0600-1.jpg

This was our goodnight friend.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0603.jpg

Up next........more Palo food & a run in with Goofy.

[MAGICFOR2]

Great installment, Melanie! Your Palo dinner looked wonderful. I heard that they had gotten rid of the filet, but you had it :confused3 I have got to have that souffle sometime!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

You two looked great all dressed up for Palo. I can't wait to try it. I think I am going to go for the brunch though instead of dinner.

[anty30]

Love your report so far. Keep it coming.:thumbsup2

[jns]

another great report
I really had fun at the scrapbook scrap

[Disneygrl36]

Great installment, Melanie! Your Palo dinner looked wonderful. I heard that they had gotten rid of the filet, but you had it :confused3 I have got to have that souffle sometime!
It was sooooooo delicious & yes you must have the souffle. Toni our server said it's a must do!!!!

You two looked great all dressed up for Palo. I can't wait to try it. I think I am going to go for the brunch though instead of dinner.
Thanks Lessa. It was fun getting dressed up but not too dressed up...this was why we picked formal night for Palo. Go to both...dinner is fabulous.

Love your report so far. Keep it coming.:thumbsup2
:welcome: anty30. Hope you will stick around.

another great report
I really had fun at the scrapbook scrap
I had fun too Jackie. It was great to chat a little & relax. I ended up being glad we had to move to the Promenade lounge as it was a lot more open in there. I think I got your bag---it had Pooh bear on the outside & it had some really cool stuff---thanks!! I think you might have gotten mine too---mine was the yellow large envelope. If so, did you like your goodies?

[Disneygrl36]

We slept pretty good since the boat was trying to rock us to sleep....:lmao: & we woke up well rested & Eric was feeling better. I had the DIS ladies brunch at 10:30 so he went up to Topsiders & got some cereal for us as I needed just a bite of something to hold me over until brunch. We relaxed in the room & just enjoyed being a bit lazy.

I got ready & Eric rode the elevator up to Palo with me & we saw the DIS ladies waiting to go in. I was quickly informed "NO BOYS allowed" so I gave DH a kiss & sent him on his way. He went to the Cove Cafe for a nice coffee & took it to deck 4 & read while I dined in style with the ladies.
We were escorted to our table back in the private room. PJ had arranged this for us & it was lovely.......thanks PJ :hug: We were given the choice of a glass of champagne or a mimosa as we walked by the bar. Mimosa please. Yummmmm!!!!
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0605.jpg
Here we all are.......toasting our ladies brunch.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0604.jpg
We were given the grand tour by Sasha our waiter......who was delightful & then we proceeded to help ourselves to the yummy food. It seems a bit early to me for some of the heavy stuff so I tried to keep my choices light.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0606.jpg
Too die for cinnamon roll, Bloody Mary shot with baby shrimp (yum), fresh fruit, stollen bread with cream & berries & some cheese & crackers.
We chatted & tasted & drank our mimosas. It was so nice having brunch with this delightful group of ladies. We had a lovely time together.
Sasha came around & took our orders for something from the kitchen. I chose eggs benedict & it was heavenly--just like I remembered from last year.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0607.jpg
Next was dessert.......not sure how we did it, but all managed to try a few things & it was delicious.
The ice carving--we saw a demonstration of this later in the week at the Goofy pool & it was incredible to watch the artist creating these things.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0613.jpg
The dessert selections
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0614-1.jpg
Kim & Paula enjoying the sweets....
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0609.jpg
My plate of desserts
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0608.jpg
And finally Sasha & the lovely Babs
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0612.jpg
We had a lovely time & it worked out perfectly for me to then be able to do a quick change & make it to Don "Ducky" Williams presentation in the Buena Vista theatre at 1:00pm. I had been really worried that this would be during brunch so I was so relieved when I got the navigator & saw the time. I really wanted to hear him speak. We made our way down to the theatre & grabbed a seat. There were several Disers in attendance that we could see scattered around the theatre. We ended up sitting next to 101DalmFan aka Lennie & her husband. Ducky was drawing as we came in & they were going to raffle off his drawings again.
Here he is with a display of his art work around him.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0616.jpg
He told us what he does & how he is basically a one man department at Disney now. He does illustrations for the theme parks & does a lot of work for Disney cruise lines as well. He story is incredible....he has no formal art training. He had loved drawing Disney characters for years for fun while he worked in a bank & someone that knew him sent some samples to Disney & got the ball rolling for him. The moral of his story is that persistence....years of sending his drawings in...finally paid off & he has been there ever since. AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!! It was neat to see an actual Disney artist & hear his story. His love of Disney just shines through. Every time we saw him on board, he had on a Disney shirt & he was sporting POTC crocs. What a cool man. It was neat to see the excitement of the people that won the drawings & I knew exactly how they felt since I already had my Donald. Lennie & her husband won the last drawing!!!!!!!!!! Yeah!!!!
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0620.jpg
It was a fascinating presentation & I was so glad that we just lucked out & got to have this experience on our cruise. It really was the cherry on top of the icing on my birthday cake.
After the presentation, we shopped a bit & went to Shutters to look at our Palo picture.
Next up........finally a drink of the day & our encounter with the Goof!!!!

[klj27]

Another great report! What was the desert in the taller glass? It looks yum!

[DreamCruiser100]

Still Loving your report Melanie!! You have such a nice way of writing everything!! Love seeing what I missed out on :sick: , You were so sweet to think of me and give me ginger chews:grouphug:

Can't wait to read some more!! Wish you were going with us again this year we'll miss your sweet smile!!

[Fairy_Tale_Bride]

Oh, I miss Palo's! It's the most amazing place in the world! :goodvibes

DH & I were just talking about the chocolate souffle today! We are craving it and it's the main reason to book our next cuise! :rotfl:

[Babs417]

I wish I met Ducky I missed that I guess We will have to go again How Often dose he sail?

[tksbaskets]

Great installment! We had the pleasure of meeting Ducky Williams on our 10-day Christmas cruise. What memories. Thanks for sharing.:thumbsup2

[jns]

.I had fun too Jackie. It was great to chat a little & relax. I ended up being glad we had to move to the Promenade lounge as it was a lot more open in there. I think I got your bag---it had Pooh bear on the outside & it had some really cool stuff---thanks!! I think you might have gotten mine too---mine was the yellow large envelope. If so, did you like your goodies?
Yes I got yours :hug: Thanks love everything in it :thumbsup2 ,
I do not know who's you got it wasn't mind
I forgot to pack the one I was going to take to swap so I just bought the Disney cruise stuff on board
Only for you I would not have gone to the Don "Ducky" Williams presentation , I really enjoyed his talk , but wasn't luckly enough to win ,

[Disneygrl36]

Another great report! What was the desert in the taller glass? It looks yum!
That was a trifle of some sort & it was yummy.

Still Loving your report Melanie!! You have such a nice way of writing everything!! Love seeing what I missed out on :sick: , You were so sweet to think of me and give me ginger chews:grouphug:

Can't wait to read some more!! Wish you were going with us again this year we'll miss your sweet smile!!
Pam, I hated that you had to miss our swap & felt so bad. I am glad you felt better later in the cruise.
I would love to cruise with you guys again.

Oh, I miss Palo's! It's the most amazing place in the world! :goodvibes

DH & I were just talking about the chocolate souffle today! We are craving it and it's the main reason to book our next cuise! :rotfl:
Yes Palo is incredible. They really spoil you in there & the food is top notch.

I wish I met Ducky I missed that I guess We will have to go again How Often dose he sail?
I am not sure how often he sails Babs. Wish you had met him as well. He is incredible.

Great installment! We had the pleasure of meeting Ducky Williams on our 10-day Christmas cruise. What memories. Thanks for sharing.:thumbsup2
:welcome: tksbaskets. Ducky is such a nice & gracious man. We saw him all over the ship & I finally got my nerve up to speak to him. More coming up on that later.

Yes I got yours :hug: Thanks love everything in it :thumbsup2 ,
I do not know who's you got it wasn't mind
I forgot to pack the one I was going to take to swap so I just bought the Disney cruise stuff on board
Only for you I would not have gone to the Don "Ducky" Williams presentation , I really enjoyed his talk , but wasn't luckly enough to win ,
Glad you liked you stuff Jackie. I am also glad that you went to the Ducky presentation.....it really was not to be missed.

[Disneygrl36]

So we went & did a bit of shopping/browsing.
Look who we saw while walking about...the Goof.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0623.jpg
This is what I love about Disney cruises......is unexpectedly coming upon the characters.
I tried on a funny Halloween hat in Mickey's Mates.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0630.jpg
Enough shopping, we headed up to deck 9. The mission was to have a drink of the day. The DIS kid trick or treat was going on about this time. We saw Paula sitting at the gazebo at the Goofy pool waiting to hand out the clues. We decided we would sit with her & chat awhile to keep her company. AND we finally got a drink of the day which was a Rusty Anchor.
Cheers to you........
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0635.jpg
We also saw the big cheese over across the pool & promptly went over to have our picture taken with him.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0634.jpg
The kids started showing up & it was fun watching them be all excited about their scavenger hunt. We sat awhile & then went down to Deck 3 to see them get their final reward......they had huge treat bags & I think they were stuffed to the brim. We quickly moved on as there was lots of excited kids around & we decided Deck 4 would be a better place for us to be. We went for a turn around the deck & then sat in those heavenly chairs & finished up our Rusty Anchors. It was a BIG drink & before long I was feeling it a bit & decided we needed to rest up abit before the show...so we headed back to the rooom for a little nap.
This was the night for Twice Charmed which I was super excited to see...our first stage show this time since we had skipped the Welcome Aboard show & watched the Golden Mickey's on TV.
Here is our great cruise director Brent doing his intro.....
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0637.jpg
Twice Charmed was a beautiful show & a nice twist to the Cinderella story. I knew true love would triumph in the end & Cindy & her prince would still live happily ever after no matter what the evil stepmother & Franco cooked up.
Here are a few pictures.......taken without the flash.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0640.jpg
The costumes & music were superb. I meant to buy the CD but somehow forgot. Oh well reason #4 to go back right?
I love how they even had Lucifer.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0659.jpg
Cinderella, the Fairy Godmother, Gus & Jaq
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0656.jpg
A farewell song.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0669.jpg
A beautiful show & it lived up to all my expectations.
We had some time before dinner so we went to Sessions & listened to the piano player. It is such a cozy romantic atmosphere in there.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0672.jpg
We each had a martini. I had a Moneypenny which was a peach flavored concoction & Eric had an Ivory Key. Both were yummy & our waitress brought us a platter of cheese & grapes. We love cheese & this was nice as we were a bit hungry for dinner.
Dinner tonight was at Parrot Cay. We had a nice time chatting with our fellow table mates & discussed our plans for St Marteen.
Here is the crab dip appetizer
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0676.jpg
Mary & Ellis.....Ellis showing off his pretty appetizer. He got a kick out of my photographing my food & if he had something that looked pretty he would ask me if I wanted a photo.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0677.jpg
My yummy island chicken with sweet potato mash
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0679.jpg
I liked the menu choices here & the colorful decor makes it very festive.
After dinner, we went for a walk around on Deck 4 & this was where we had our best character interaction of all week............Goofy was walking up the steps & he fell/tripped on his big old shoes & he rolled down the steps & ended up with his feet up in the air. He was ok, but it was hilarious. :rotfl: & he hammed it up good. I wish I had the camera out & had been able to capture it on video. As we were laughing at Goofy, who by this point was walking on up the stairs, I ended up with a hook wrapped around me & there was Captain Hook. He scared me to death. Here we are after I calmed down a bit.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0686.jpg
It was great fun!!!!!!!! Reason #5 to go back, more fun with Disney characters. I love that they have as much fun with the adults as they do with the kids.
We wanted to go watch Alfred & Seymour the 2 comedians in Rockin Bar D but the place was packed. We had heard how funny they were & didn't want to miss it. Luckily they were broadcasting the show onto the screen in Diversions, so we went in there & watched it. These 2 guys are hilarious. We had a drink & laughed alot. After they were finished, we went over to Rockin' Bar D for the Spring Break Bash.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0698.jpg
We did quite a bit of dancing & really enjoyed ourselves. After the sping break party, we hung out & watched the Elite showband sing a few songs before deciding it was bed time.
Here was our nightime friend.......
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0675.jpg

Up next..........Under 2 Flags & there be pirates aboard.

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

:laughing: Your tablemate sounds hilarious wanting you to take pictures of his food.

The Captain Hook story is great, one of the many reasons I love Disney.:goodvibes

[taramarie]

Can't wait to hear the rest! Keep it coming

Tara

[Babs417]

I wish I got to spend more time with all you guys. It all went by so fast. Im glad we got to do Brunch in that room.

[mruhaak]

Melanie your smile is so wonderful. You genuinely look like you're having a good time! I leave in 3 days.. any tips?

[FauntleroyFAN07]

You are good Dan.......but not that good. I am keeping my Ducky. They don't have the animation classes all the time, just when he cruises I think. I know they probably do animation classes with the kids in the clubs no matter what, but I don't think the adults always get to get in on the fun.


hey it never hurts to try right...thanks for the information...i will add it to the memory bank for a possible cruise, i am going to potition the inlaws thi weekend about a cruise next year...wish me luck


and the food pictures look wonderful..thanks for sharing them with us...it is not weird totake bathroom pictures...do you remmeber the one i took at ESPN in the bathroom.
:)

[Disneygrl36]

:laughing: Your tablemate sounds hilarious wanting you to take pictures of his food.

The Captain Hook story is great, one of the many reasons I love Disney.:goodvibes
Leesa.......he was so cute. He started out the week a bit stiff...but by pirate night he had a bandana on his head & an earring & Disney tatoos on & got up to do the limbo. They were great tablemates.

Can't wait to hear the rest! Keep it coming

Tara
:welcome: Tara!!!! I hope your cruise will be as great as ours.

I wish I got to spend more time with all you guys. It all went by so fast. Im glad we got to do Brunch in that room.
I wish we had gotten to spend more time with you too Babs.....I will never forget you tearing up at the terminal cause you made me do it too. It was so great meeting everyone.

Melanie your smile is so wonderful. You genuinely look like you're having a good time! I leave in 3 days.. any tips?
Awww Melanie........thanks. I was having a BLAST all week. DH & I have a great time together & if you don't have a good time on DCL something is seriously wrong with you.
Wow your trip is soon :banana: :cool2: :banana: wish I was going with you.
Let's see tips....
1. Have a good time & let loose...you are on vacation.
2. Don't sweat the small stuff & you can't do everything no matter how much you want to.
3. Walk around the ship & look at the artwork...you will find lots of cute stuff.
4. Eat, drink & be merry.
5. Go to the clubs at night if you like to have a good time........interact with the cruise staff because they are AWESOME!!!!
6. Deck 10 Starboard side is a great place to watch the Pirate party & the fireworks.
7. If you drink at all, try a drink of the day.......especially the Pineapple Mojito. It was fun trying new things.
8. SPA, SPA, SPA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! JUST INDULGE YOURSELF & GO.
I am sure I could come up with more!!!!!!
hey it never hurts to try right...thanks for the information...i will add it to the memory bank for a possible cruise, i am going to potition the inlaws thi weekend about a cruise next year...wish me luck


and the food pictures look wonderful..thanks for sharing them with us...it is not weird totake bathroom pictures...do you remmeber the one i took at ESPN in the bathroom.
:)

Yes I remember your bathroom picure Dan. Have you seen that one from Fort Wilderness?????? That is the funniest bathroom picture I have ever seen.
Lot's of luck on the cruise........get the DVD & show them & you won't have to talk them into it too hard. Lots of luck & pixiedust:

[JOHNHORAZ]

GREAT TRIP REPORT LOVING (KEEP IT COMING):yay:

[Disneygrl36]

So we woke up & guess what? We were docked at a beautiful island.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0699.jpg
We were next to a Princess ship & I couldn't help but want to sing "The love boat soon will be making another run............." We were finally going to be able to put our feet on land after a few rocky days at sea.
We headed up to Topsiders & had a nice breakfast while looking at the beautiful hills of St Marteen.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0701.jpg
We were taking the Under 2 Flags tour that would take us all around the island on a nice tour bus. We met at Rockin' Bar D at 8:40am & then they took us all off the ship together & led us to the tour bus. Our driver was named Noel (pretty coincidental since the tropical storm/hurricane that was making our life difficult had the same name-but this Noel gave us no trouble). He talked quite abit about how the island had 2 sides the Dutch & French as we made our way over to the French side & told us a bit about the differences in the 2 sides.
We caught a glimpse of the Magic at the first part of the tour.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0705.jpg
This was at the photo stop.........beautiful view of the island.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0706.jpg
Ellis our tablemate took this one for us...they were on the tour as well.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0708.jpg
I was suprised by looking around at the landscape & plants to see lots of cacti. Kind of strange.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0709.jpg
We got over to Marigot which is the capital on the french side & had about 40 minutes to walk around & shop.
The market in Marigot....the spices smelled so good as we walked down through the market.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0711-1.jpg
We headed for the public "pee-pee room" as Noel called it before heading out on our first mission which was for a cold drink. I wanted a Ting if they had them. We found a nice little patisserie & they had them. If you have never had a Ting, get one when you can. It is a lovely refreshing citrusy soda that we drank our weight in when we were in Jamaica. I was happy & refreshed as we walked along drinking our Ting. We didn't have alot of time & Eric wanted a cigar so we went to a shop that had cigars, liquour & jewelry--interesting combo. We ended up with a bottle of St Marteen's own guaveberry rum.......yummy. I had been to St Marteen before & remembered how good this was. We also ended up with a few cigars for Christmas gifts & for Eric. Mission accomplished.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0719.jpg
We walked around abit more & went over to the nice mall & then it was time to head back to the bus.
We saw these natives as we rode back to port.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0720.jpg
The island tour was great & a nice way to see alot of the scenery of the island. Wish we had more time in Marigot, but all in all it was a good tour.
We got back to port & decided not to go to downtown as we are neither one shoppers & that is the primary activity there. We headed back to the ship as we were getting hungry.
I love this one of Goofy.........those Disney crew members are always keeping things spiffed up for us aren't they? :rotfl:
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0726.jpg
This sign welcomed us back on board.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0732.jpg
We headed to Lumiere's for lunch. This was the only sit down table service lunch we ended up having all week. It was good & I liked the chance to explore Lumiere's a bit more when it wasn't as crowded as it is at dinner.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b147/Disneygrl36/100_0735.jpg
After lunch, we went back to the room & I got together the pirate goodies I had for fish extenders & we delivered those on our way up to the spa.
We went up to the fitness center & both used the treadmills. It was nice being able to look out & see the beautiful scenery while sweating. I had a nice refreshing glass of water with lemon while waiting for Eric to finish up. After working out we went back to the room & rested up some because tonight there was big doin's on the Magic........tonight there be pirates on board!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Up next....................ARGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH HH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Disneygrl36]

GREAT TRIP REPORT LOVING (KEEP IT COMING):yay:

:welcome: John......hope you enjoy!!!!

[klj27]

Another great update. Glad you enjoyed your tour. I don't think that I would like to do a lot of the shopping either. If I am not getting a huge bargain I don't enjoy it.

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Great update. I am trying to decided what excursion I want to do while at St Maarten and the Under Two Flags tour is one I am considering so it was nice to read about your experience on it. :thumbsup2

[FauntleroyFAN07]

thank you for the island pictures...how long do they give you on the island?

is the boat docked there all day?

I liked the island natives.
:thumbsup2