Roll call for March 16th

[iluvorlando]

Ok. I know from the cruise list there are a few of us out here:

Me, DH, DD's 5 & 6

Scott, DW and 2 kids

Tecdavidt

Lisa from MI

I know I'm missing some. Anyone else out there?

Michele

[Lisa L from MI]

Just bumping this up.....you already have me listed......Also included is MIL (akak Gramma), FIL, SIL and BIL and also my 2 kids DD's 6 and 8 and WE ARE READY TO GO!!!!!!!! (Minus my MAJOR apprehension about flying!!!)

We are going to have cabins 7078, 7080 and 7082 I believe............can't wait to see you there.....lets set something up!!!!

[iluvorlando]

I know what you mean. I am a terrible flyer. But just remember, flying is still the safest mode of transportation. And those little bottles of sutter homes help too! LOL

Absolutley, lets set something up!

When?:D

[farmer]

Farmer, DW, and kids.

We are currently in 1078 but try everyday for something better. Coming in from Oklahoma.

1st time to fly with kids....wish us luck.

Scott

[tecdavidt]

Only 4 weeks before we are in Orlando! Looking forword to meeting everyone. It will be Dave, Kathy, Ryan 18, David Jr. 18, Stephanie 9. Cabins 6120 & 6122. This is No. 4 for us. That is hard to believe. We need to schedule a DIS meet. I suggest Sunday afternoon early, 12:30 in the Promenade lounge. What does every one else think? Kathy Its getting close:bounce:

[iluvorlando]

Sunday 12:30 Promenade Lounge - sounds good to me.

Everybody else?

Also, what dining do you have? We have early.

My countdown clock 1 month, 10 hours. (I think that isn't right?):D

[Cathyeu]

We are on the 3/16 cruise as well with 2 kids 9 and 10.
Do most men really rent the tux?

[iluvorlando]

Kathyeu,

Welcome to the boards! Aren't you so glad that you found this site before we left? I am. Glad to hear you are joining us.

As far as the tux rental, if your DH would be comfortable in one, then I say go for it. My DH isn't, didn't have a great tux experience when we married, so I didn't even bring it up. We are just planning on packing his dark grey suit and his navy blazer with nice slacks.

We are trying to meet on Sunday, hope to meet you then!:wave:

[VondaP]

We will be there. Me (30ish) dds 15, 9,8.

Vonda

[iluvorlando]

Vonda,

Welcome to the crowd. We are trying to arrange a dis meet for Sunday around 12:30. Hope to see you there!

:D

[tecdavidt]

OK, sounds good to us. Sunday 12:30 pm Promenade lounge DIS meet. All Disers on the cruise, please come! We went down and visited the dock where we keep our boat here in Iowa, Lake Rathbun. Boy, do we have boat fever! I want to be on the Magic now!!! Kathy

[iluvorlando]

Shhh.....Don't let my DH hear about your boat. Ya know we live in a state surrounded by water. That will be all I hear...I want a boat, I want a boat now!:D

[lilboyblue]

We will be on the March 16 Magic! Can't wait. Our group consists of myself, DH, and DS (8 years old). This is our first Disney cruise. I've been reading this forum for over a month now and have found it very helpful.

[iluvorlando]

Welcome to the crowd lilboyblue. This is our first cruise too.
So Kathy, any tips for us first timers?
Thanks!
Michele

[Cathyeu]

will alos try to meet on Sunday. I'm glad to see that some of you have kids the same age as ours--Katie 10 and Mark 9... I'm hoping to keep them busy with playmates(so we can relax! )
I noted that Kathy is from West Des Moines..we're from Indianola IA! See you then!

[tecdavidt]

Cathyeu we are looking forword to meeting you! Our youngest will be in the same group as your children.

Tips for first timers, as my wonderful husband tells people,"this cruise will become very expensive because this cruise will not be your last!" So true for our family. This is our 4th DCL cruise and my 11th cruise since 1997! Iowa can be a cold place :D.

-fill out your docs before you get to the cruise terminal, we do ours before we leave for the airport. Don't forget passports/birth cert.'s & photo ID's
-Put your empty suitcases under the beds so they don't take up room space.
-Pack whatever you might need the first afternoon after embarking because it
may be a long time before you see your luggage. (Swimsuits).
-Chances are this will not be your last Disney cruise so don't try and do everthing or else you will stress yourselves out.
-I pack a small extension cord because my hairdryer plug won't work in the Disney outlet.
-Sunscreen, a lot of it.
-do you like chocolate? Chocolate Lava Cake!!! Don't miss it.
-we use the internet email system to keep in contact back home in case any emergencies happen, much cheaper than the phone when out to sea
-MOST IMPORTANT relax on the ship. We call it "Cruise Mode".

See you all there! Dave & Kathy

[iluvorlando]

Hello!

Just bumping us back up to the first page!

What excursions is everyone thinking of doing? Disney or on your own?

25 more days to go!!:bounce:

[tecdavidt]

We are just doing our own. In St. Maarten we go to the beach that you can see from the ship. We did that last Aug. and had a great time. I get a little shopping in also! In St. Thomas we will probably do the tram ride up to Paradise Point and watch the birds, sit back and relax and enjoy the view. We may go in and shop, I have not really checked out the stores in Havensignt Mall.

We did an island tour of St. Thomas once and that was worth while. The view up at the top from the Great House is breath taking. We also did the Atlantis sub back on our first 7 day cruise. It was good but not as good as the Atlantis sub in Cozumel. If you plan on doing the 7 day western, I would suggest doing the sub excursion in Cozumel.

We did the two island tour in St. Maarten. Never again. Hot and boring. We had the Orient Beach excursion booked but I decided it was way too long for my daughter and husband to be out in the sun, both are blond with fair skin. Maybe we will take a taxi over there?

WE GOT OUR DOCS TODAY!!!!!:DKathy:D

[iluvorlando]

We were thinking of doing the Butterfly farm or the Atlantis, of course I think the Catamaran sounds the best, so maybe that!

I think we want to do Coral World / Coki beach on our own. I know you can get better prices thats for sure.

Kathy,
so glad you got your docs! When fedex delivered ours they didn't leave them, just one of those cards that said they had them. Then when DH went to pick them up, they couldn't find them AGGH!!!

We did get them finally!!I don't understand why they wouldn't just leave them?

Getting ready to convert the guest room to the cruise room! I have told DD's that they cannot wear any of the cruise clothes to school!

Michele

[VondaP]

Michele,

Unless something has changed since we cruised this past October, you won't be going to Atlantis unless you cruise on the Wonder. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

Vonda

[Lisa L from MI]

We are doing the Golden Eagle Catamaran and then we are doing St Thomas on our own. Renting a car and finding a good beach.
We got our docs, I believe, about Feb 7. The Fed Ex man left a note at MIL's too. They were on vacation but SIL went and picked them up.

MIL is coming Thursday (was going to today but DD #2....is sick w/ear infection and fever) to take me and the girls shopping for some clothes for the trip.

**....She just called and is coming today too to take DD#1 shopping and will take me and DD#2 thursday.

We are just soooo EXCITED!!!!!!!!

[iluvorlando]

Vonda,
I think I was referring to the Atlantis sub.:confused: Now I'm going to have to go home and check.

Lisa,
What time are you doing the catamaran? am or pm? Shopping is so fun. I took DD Saturday, it was a lot of fun. Now if I could only find clothes for me!

:D

[tecdavidt]

iluvorlando, The Atlantis Sub. is in St. Thomas (and Cozumel for the western) and The Atlantis Hotel is in Nassau. They are not related to each other. The names are confusing.

I wouldn't mind doing the Catamaran but I doubt if I could talk my family into it. They like to jet ski (we own one) so they rent the jet ski or wave runners and have a blast surfer with a jet ski. Kathy

[nearlychildless]

This is our first cruise. There will be me, DH and DD 15. Any tips on traveling with a teenager?

[Lisa L from MI]

Iluvorlando........we are doing the morning one......NOT by MY choice......I would have rather done the afternoon one.....BUT I got outvoted!!:D

[iluvorlando]

nearlychildless - welcome to the crew. I don't have any teenagers, but from reading this board there is a place called common areas that is reserved just for the teens. I think that would be cool.

lisa-I havent talked to my husband, but I was thinking the am would be better, more time for shopping!:D

[VondaP]

nearlychildless,

I have a 15 year old dd cruising.

Vonda

[iluvorlando]

Lisa-how is dd's ear infection? were you able to go shopping? I am having such problems finding things for me, plus I need a casual wardrobe for a new job I start on March 5th. AAGGH!!
Do you already have the catamaran booked? We still cant make up our minds!

Is anyone ordering from Magical Treasures or Shirley?

Only 22 more days!:D

[iluvorlando]

B
U
M
P
:D

[iluvorlando]

Found us buried on page 5!

Only 19 more days!!!!!!!!!!

:bounce: :pinkbounc :bounce: :pinkbounc :bounce: :pinkbounc

[VondaP]

glad you found us. I had searched put couldn't find the post.

Vonda

I am packed and ready to go!!!

[iluvorlando]

No Way!!! I have not even started to think about packing! Well, I have but DD b-day is this weekend, so my mom and dad are going to be using the "cruise room". Next week for sure!:D

[VondaP]

Ok, I'll fess up. I'm not actually packed in a suitcase, but our clothes are all together hanging nicely in the closet. I have a box on the floor with the iother tems I'll be taking.

Vonda - who will not pack as much darned clothes as I did our first cruise!

[iluvorlando]

Vonda,

I knew it was too good to be true, especially since you have a 15 year old. All girls, right? My six year old tells me "that's not cool enough mommy." I am only dreading the upcoming teen age years!

So, in an effort to control our packing, what did you take that you didn't need and what didn't you have?

I have become really obsessive lately, even doing a spread sheet!
It will be even worse the 2 weeks before the cruise, because I will be off the weekends and Monday and Wednesday! LOL:D

[VondaP]

We packed entirely to much clothes. I had nice short sets for everyone for every day. We never touched them, we lived in swimsuit cover ups, short sundresses and a couple of shorts. We used the over the door holder and it was very helpful. We brought an extension cord and used it quite a bit. We did not bring any air freshener and this time will take a small bottle from BBW. The bathroom started getting a little "ripe". I will also bring a small lighted alarm clock. Couldn't stand not knowing what time it was. We also packed way to many shoes.

I stressed so much prior to the cruise that I really felt after all was over and done with that I didn't enjoy myself as much as I could have. I was able to get Palos for brunch and dinner and a massage for DH. It wasn't as tough as I thought it would be. I did arrive earlier than the stated times to get in line. What I didn't like about it was leaving my family having lunch. This trip since DH will not be with us, I am not worrying about the ressie scramble. We will take everything slow and easy. I am determined to enjoy this trip more than the last.

Vonda

[iluvorlando]

Great tips, Vonda. I really want to do the surial bath and Palo's, and try to get DH a massage, he deserves it! I do feel a little stressed about everything, ressie scramble and registering the kids for the clubs, what dining rotation we will have and when should we plan Palo's. I guess since this is our first, I want everything to be perfect. Just need to go with the flow! :)

[VondaP]

In planning Palos ressies and the spa. I had an index card that I had prepared at home. It showed what times I would chose for dinner, brunch and the spa based on the dining rotation we got.

We ended up with PLAPLAP and I just used the times that I had listed for that rotation. It worked out great. I actually had other passengers use my times based on their rotation. I made sure that I did not miss any formal nights or tropical night.

Hope this helps,

Vonda

[iluvorlando]

Ok, Vonda, would you be willing to share what night you would plan to go Palo's for each rotation? I have a little code sheet, but still can't figure it out. With younger children, I think we may end up with ALP rotation, but what if we have PLA or LAP? Isn't Lumieres the restuarant that requires a jacket? Ugh! I would really not like that rotation.

BTW- WHERE IS EVERYONE ELSE?

Come out come out wherever you are!

:smooth:

[iluvorlando]

Ok, Vonda, would you be willing to share what night you would plan to go Palo's for each rotation? I have a little code sheet, but still can't figure it out. With younger children, I think we may end up with ALP rotation, but what if we have PLA or LAP? Isn't Lumieres the restuarant that requires a jacket? Ugh! I would really not like that rotation.

BTW- WHERE IS EVERYONE ELSE?

Come out come out wherever you are! LOL

:smooth:

[VondaP]

I know I have the card someplace. I will look and get back. It also depends on what night you want to miss in your rotation. We did not want to miss either of the 2 formals or Tropical night. My times and dates were based on that. Let me know what you want to miss.

Vonda

[iluvorlando]

Weird. I wonder why I double posted? Anyhow, I wouldn't want to miss the formals (got 2 dresses off EBay, my DH would kill me! LOL), the animators show, and tropical night. I would love to get PLA, do you think I could call and request it?

Thanks!:)

[Lisa L from MI]

Could someone post the possible rotations??? I really never thought about them before...but it would make sense to figure out which dinner you would want to miss. We have a "tentative" plan to make Palo's resis....but with 2 kids....I never know if they will stay in the clubs (they wouldn't 2 years ago). We are actually leaving on March 9 :eek: And I haven't begun to pack yet!!!! I am going through the kids stuff today.

I remember 2 years ago we went 4 days WDW and the 4 day cruise and we didn't wear half the stuff we bought. This time, eventhough we are going for a full 2 weeks...I don't even think I will pack as much. Our plan is to do laundry at the Poly the Friday before the cruise.

Can't wait:D

[VondaP]

I used the following for scheduling my dinner at Palos:


PLAPLAP - Saturday/Wednesday/Friday

APLAPLA - Monday/Wednesday/Friday

LAPLAPL - Saturday/Monday/Friday


This allowed us to be in our regular restaurant rotation for both formals, tropical night and the light show. Brunch is only on sea days and we chose Sunday.

The times for the dinner you choose depends on what you want to do. We choose something like 6:30 or 7:00 pm. and still had time to make it to our regular rotation if we chose to, we did not. From what I have read Fridays at Palos books up quickly due to it being the last night. I could have chosen that since I was the second person in line, but went with Wednesday, we had PLAPLAP. As far as requesting rotations, I asked and was told that it would be noted in my reservation, but no guarantees. I really liked PLAPLAP. Would like to have it again. I suppose it depends on the ages of the folks traveling.

Hope this helps,

Vonda

[iluvorlando]

Lisa,

I think if you have younger kids you can count on ALP
If you have older kids or just adults you can count on PLA
If you are older or no kids you can count on LAP

I am pretty sure that is it, but my info from Dave is at home, I will double check.

Vonda, I think that if you request it, you have a good chance of getting it, so I am going to call tonight.

Lisa, Did you book the catamaran excursion already or are you doing on the ship?

Michele

[Lisa L from MI]

Michele....
We are already booked for the morning Golden Eagle.....we tentatively have the 5 star booked for St John but my family, i think will be just doing St Thomas/St John on our own. The rest of our party still wants to do the 5 Star (MIL, FIL, SIL, BIL).

[VondaP]

Lisa,

We did St. John on our own. We booked a "snuba" excursion. It was great fun. We are going on our own again, but not doing the "snuba" this time.

Vonda

[iluvorlando]

Lisa,
What is the 5 star?
Michele

[Lisa L from MI]

Michele
It is the 5 Star St John Snorkle...heard it was really nice, BUT I think 1 excursion is good enough. I would like to just see the island and visit the beach at our leisure.

[tecdavidt]

It is getting so close till we leave!!! I have not started to pack. I will wait until 11th or 12th. I will go through our bathroom bag and see what I need to fill up or buy. As far as clothes go I know my step son needs a new dress shirt and slacks. Possible shorts for him, I need to get my husband moving on that. And of course my husband has scheduled a business trip! for the weekend before we leave. Men. As he put it to me, it is what pays for the cruises. Yes but I still don't have to like the fact he is leaving me during prime time right before the cruise. The price of owning your own business.

We have two teen boys who are both 18. This is their 4th DCL cruise. They really didn't participate in the organized activities in Common Grounds. My son did one activity on the second cruise but that is all. They prefer to hang out with their new found friends. This trip they are looking forword to hanging in the adult only areas.

We found out our neighbors are leaving on a 4 day Wonder cruise on March 17th. Our daughter does a great job on spreading her positive experiences on the Disney Magic!!! Another neightbor just got back from a Disney Wonder cruise! I have not had a chance to talk to them to see how they liked it. I think both families decided on going after our annual Christmas get together for our block.

I think we will do Sapphire beach in the AM in St. Thomas. I really want to see one of the beaches since we have never done that on St. Thomas. I wouldn't mind taking a taxi over to Orient Beach for a little time on St. Maarten but I don't think I can talk my husband into it. He likes the location of the beach close to the ship.

Kathy:D

[iluvorlando]

I don't think the 5 star snorkling would be good idea for us. The kids are too young for that. I am thinking the morning catamaran and then coral world/coki beach. It wont be a problem to taxi to coral world would it? Any idea how much?

I am frustrated because I can't find closed beach shoes for DH and me. I found them for the kids at Land's End, but all they have is slip ons and sandals (which my husband won't be caught dead in!). Oh well, we still have 18 more days!

[iluvorlando]

Wow. The board has been busy!

I am just bumping us back up to the first page.

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[tecdavidt]

Try a sport store like Sportsmart for the shoes. They should all have their summer items in stock by now. My husband bought a pair last year at our local Sportsmart after we started boating. Now I need to get a pair. Kathy

[iluvorlando]

We don't have a sport mart but maybe our sports authority would. Great idea! Thanks!

I got the girls coverups and beach shoes and my swim suit and cover up today!!!!!

I also just noticed I am a dis veteran instead of welcome guest.
Yeah! :)

[tecdavidt]

I just realized I need to buy our growing 9 yr. daughter new sandals! At least it is the time of year all the new summer stuff is in stock. Her feet are bigger than mine! Kathy

[iluvorlando]

Kathy - two words - Pay Less. They had a awesome selection of sandals. Of course, I couldn't find any for me, but found a real cute pair for DD 6. Plus, who wants to spend a ton of money on something they will out grow and wear for maybe 5 months! LOL

Too bad about her feet being bigger, me and my mom wear pretty much the same size. She won't let me near her shoes when I go home! :D

[iluvorlando]

Bumping us back to page 1.

Just realized that, duh, Speedo would have water shoes. Yep, looked on their website and they do. Not bad price either. The ones a sports authority were $54-$69. We don't need that good of water shoes!

Only15 1/2 more days to go!!!!!!!!!

:D

[iluvorlando]

Weird. My post didn't bump us back up. Have any of you noticed strange things like that happening?:confused:

[tecdavidt]

Yes the boards are acting a little odd. I have been using this site since Jan. 00 and after it gets so large they have problems, growing pains. I am sure they will get it fixed. Good idea about the shoes! Kathy

[iluvorlando]

Kathy,
Hope you find some nice sandals. Now, to convince DH that we really need the Speedo shoes. LOL

Well, have to clean house for the parents visit. Late night tonight. Oh well, had to watch "my shows" (Survivor and CSI). I will probably be off the boards until late Sunday.

Talk you all again real soon!
Michele

[iluvorlando]

DD B-day was wonderful. Mom and Dad are leaving this morning. So...tried to get on the board last night and couldn't. Glad to see that it is up today.

Only 13 more days!
:bounce: :pinkbounc :bounce:

[jgeurin]

We are a family of 4 from Tulsa. Kids are 16 and 13. My 16 yo is a little apprehensive about the focus of kids activities being too juvenile for her, so she is looking forward to meeting others her age. We will be there at 12:30!

Jim

[tecdavidt]

I see it finally posted so now I am confused. Boards must be acting up once again. Ah, growing pains. kathy

[tecdavidt]

I am trying this again. I posted and my post got lost, by a note saying the server is too busy at the moment.

We are back after visiting our boat up in winter storage in Okoboji IA. This arctic blast is horrible. I thought about the cruisers coming from the Plains states and Mid West who might be missing their cruise.

In just 2 weeks we will be at our first day at sea. That thought will help warm me up. Also good news, my dear husband cancelled his business trip this coming week so he will be home to help get prepared for our cruise :D . Kathy

[iluvorlando]

Jim, welcome to the crew. We look forward to meeting you sunday.

Well, we lucked out at SuperTarget today with sandals and water shoes, which is great because we saved about $25 per water shoe.

I am converting the guest room to the packing room.

Kathy, the weather is just frightful. Is it supposed to warm up any time soon? You are coming in the day before, right? The weather hasnt been too cold, since last week, just cloudy and rainy. Yuk!

I am trying to decide between Bonine and Dramamine. What do you think?

Ah, to be at sea:rolleyes:

[VondaP]

anyone know who our captain will be?

Vonda

[iluvorlando]

Good question Vonda. I haven't heard anything lately. Might want to post that as a separate question.

[lilboyblue]

Only 12 more days! Just checking in with everybody on March 16 Magic.

I would suggest Bonine instead of dramamine. Dramamine causes more drowsiness. Also, you can ask your pharmacy to order meclizine tablets (this is the generic name of the medication in Bonine). The meclizine tablets are usually much cheaper.

Well, back to packing and organizing.

[tecdavidt]

Iluvorando, yes we always fly in one day early. Just can't chance having delays and missing the ship. We had it happen once on Dave's first Carnival cruise! He was only on the ship 2 nights instead of 3 but he did get him hooked on cruising;). The weather is suppose to warm up to middle 40's tomorrow but still bitter cold today. Oh well, we really had only 1 week before this of bitter cold and only one major snow storm. Not bad considering last year was the winter from *ell.

For seasickness we always bring Bonine but we have not had to use it. I guess being on so many cruises and owning a boat helps our sea legs. We have a 34' cabin cruiser Sea Ray. It really helps relieve the post cruise depression that hits all of us. We just spend weekends on our boat. We named it Caribbean Dream'n III. I can hear the music now. 10 days and counting down.:cool: Kathy

[jgeurin]

Just purchased meclizine over the counter under the brand name Dramamine II. It is probably widely available. Any tips on the best snorkling opportunities on this trip?

Jim

[nearlychildless]

Jim, my dd15 is looking forward to meeting your daughter 16. What dinner seating did you request?

[tecdavidt]

Well people, just read the post that we have to get up early once again at St. Thomas for immigration! I would rather get a toddler up early than a teenager. This should be interesting. We all have to get up and go through even if we don't get off the ship. At least we don't have to shower and dress before we go; some people just go down in their PJ's. Oh dear. Kathy

[iluvorlando]

Only 10 more days....

Between my computer acting up and not being able to get on, I haven't really been able to figure out what is going on.

We really have to get up again at St. Thomas? I thought they had discontinued that? What a bummer.

Kathy-are you staying here in Orlando or at the port?

Vonda-did you see that Captain Hans is on the Magic again?

:)

[VondaP]

Captain Hans is great! Rats on getting up early for immigration. We had to do that last October and it was not fun. It didn't take long, just a drag to have to get up that early on vacation! I went down in my pjs. I was not the only one.


We leave for Orlando on the 13th. Going to spend 2 days at the Hard Rock Hotel before the cruise. I can hardly wait. Me and 3 girls, what an experience this is going to be.

Iwill be wearing my lime green ribbon!

Vonda

12:30 Sunday - Promenade?

[iluvorlando]

Vonda-have fun at HRH. I have heard really great things about it. Are you planning on doing IOA? or Universal? Islands is absolutely great (from what I hear, with two little ones it would be hard to do Dueling Dragons or the others).

So, does someone want to volunteer to do a sign for Sunday?

What time is everyone planning on arriving at the port? We will probably be there around 11ish.

:D

[VondaP]

mab,

We are doing both IOA and US. We stayed there October before our cruise. The hotel is awesome!

When you all were filling out your docs what did you check on the Bahamas Immigration for visiting? It asks for a signature, do my minor children sign or do I sign for them? I can't remember what I did last cruise.

Thanks,

Vonda

[Lisa L from MI]

OMG!!! We leave this Saturday!!! Actually, we are spending the night at the airport hotel here near Detroit on Friday night!!! I have the kids clothes in order and just one of them "semi" packed!! I think I better get going!! Have all my "tioletries" done too. Actually bought another suitcase yesterday while shopping.....It's a 20inch on rollers...regular 139.99.....got it for 35.99 at Kohls....just couldn't pass it up.

Where did someone read that we have to get up at St Thomas for immigration again??!!?? Sure hope that's not true!!!

Still up in the air about doing the 5 Star in St John. We are booked for it with the rest of the family....but thinking of just doing something on our own since we are already doing the Golden Eagle in St Maarten.......Any opinions?????

We are taking TTC to the port......hopefully will be there around 11ish.

[iluvorlando]

Vonda- I think if your kids are minors, you sign.

Lisa- as far as St Thomas goes, I am leaning towards Coki beach/coral world. Then we can just hang out and go shopping. I forget who has the better deals, St Thomas or St Martin. Also, which port is it that has the tshirts that change in the sun? I am thinking of getting some early Christmas shopping done.

Only 9 more days!:D I'm sure it will go quickly!

[Lisa L from MI]

MIL just got back from St Thomas.......she bought those changing color t-shirts for everyone. Havent tried them yet. Heard St Maarten is a place for better deals.

[iluvorlando]

Lisa - there was an earlier thread about the change in St Thomas. What a bummer. I hope you have a safe trip down.

Also, just found another cruiser, Liza. Hopefully she will join us for the dis meet.

Only 8 more days:)

[iluvorlando]

That was weird. My post didn't bump us back to the first page. Trying again!

Michele

[iluvorlando]

Trying again to bump us up. If you get a notification, try to post. I get the email notifcation.

Hope this works this time!

[tecdavidt]

One week before we leave. Panic mode has set in. I got the shoes for my 9 yr old daughter, her feet our now bigger than mine!yikes. Then I though I'd better check out her clothes to make sure they still fit since what she has worn all winter is the same size as her summer clothes. The summer clothes do not fit. PANIC TIME. I have ordered new clothes with the fastest delivery possible from Lands End. My problem is that she is 5' 2" but a chunky little girl figure. I needed elastic waist in the shorts and that is hard to find. Oh I do hope she starts growing up so she thins down some. We will go over to JCPenney's petite department and check it out as soon as possible. Dis meet is 12:30 Sunday at the Promenade Bar right? Kathy

[iluvorlando]

Kathy,

I just love lands end. They really get the stuff to you quickly. I was able to find my DD's tons of stuff there. That is where I got their beach shoes and cover ups. Plus you should see how many of my preschoolers have lands end diaper bags!

Yes, Dis Meet 12:30 Sunday promenade lounge. I don't have any lime green paper. Any one else? (To make a sign) I will have lime green ribbon on!:D

[VondaP]

Kathy,

Don't feel bad, my 8 year old is 5' 1" and weighs over 100 pounds. She wears a ladies' size 8.5 shoe. I have the hardest time finding clothes for her also. None of her summer clothes fit her either, so she's wearing mine. She is teased at school because of her size, it breaks my heart to see her hurt.

My father is 6' 7", so the chances of her being 6" are definitely there.

See you all soon,

Vonda

[tecdavidt]

VondaP, thank you for the support. Stephanie will enjoy meeting your daughter. She won't feel so out of place because of her size. Her Aunt on her fathers side is 5'10" and on my side I am the shortest at 5' 6". My father is 6' 3" so she could be tall. I also pointed out to her that the pretty models we see in print and on TV are all tall and with large feet!

We had a successful shopping spree. We found clothes at JC Penney petite department. She is happy about her new outfits so that is a plus.

Iluvorlando, I love Lands End and Eddie Bauer for clothes. I don't really do the trendy look, capris on my body, no way. I did capris back when they were called peddle pushers, yes I am old. I also avoid the tight fitting tops and bell bottoms. I did that disco thing the first time around so again I love Lands End and Eddie Bauer. LE also has the only swimsuit that fits my 44 yr old body!

My panic is starting to get better, slowly. Hubby still needs to take his son shopping, he needs clothes really bad. Kathy

[VondaP]

Kathy,

I think we are ready. We leave on Wednesday. Thank goodness we have all recovered from the "virus".

I asked Cassadie if she wanted to buy new clothes, I would have gladly taken her. She said that she liked my clothes, go figure! She had a blast trying on all the "new" stuff. I will admit I have quite a bit of clothes that I have never worn and I shop mostly in the juniors dept so I'm guessing my clothes weren't to old looking for her. We did have to buy her some shoes, I wear a boat size 10. I, too, remind my daughter of the benefits of being tall. We joke that if she had small feet she would fall over. My mom was 5'1", but all 4 of my brothers and sisters are fairly tall with me being the shortest at 5' 9".

I picked up some Safe Sea (to ward off sea lice) this week. We did not have any problems last October, but from what I've read the little buggers start in March. My good luck, we would have all ended up with a rash!

C'mon Wednesday!

Vonda

[WebmasterKathy]

I've been reading this board for a few weeks while preparing for our 3/16 sailing on the Magic. It's almost here!!

We are Mom, Dad (40ish) and DS8. Looks like we'll be just a few doors away from the Tecdavit gang. We have family in West Des Moines, too. Such a small world (after all..la la la la after all...)

Thanks to everybody for the information you share here. It's sure helping us get excited about the trip.

See you all in a few days!!:cool:

Kathy S

[chitown]

Three families from Chicago, on board for march 16th magic.
1st time cruise for my family wife and two kids 8 & 11.

MZ

[tecdavidt]

OK, I tried to order the Safe Sea stuff for avoiding sea lice and of course sun burn but gee, after I added shipping for 1 bottle $35.00!!! I opted out and to chance it. Maybe I could find it at a Walgreens type of store Friday after we arrrive in Orlando?

Chitown, welcome aboard. We have a DIS meet 12:30 pm Promenade Lounge. Please come and we will get to put faces to the names we use on the board.

KathyTX, welcome! Family in West Des Moines, you will have to tell me where they live since WDM isn't that huge of a town, a little over 45,000. Although we are touching Des Moines and all the the other burbs. We are definitely 40's (try exactly mid 40's ;) and our daughter is 9 so I think your son and she will be in the same Oceaneers Club. I can't remember exactly how they break the ages up. What is your room number?

VondaP, we had the "virus crude" in this household also and thankfully it is now gone. For Sea Safe I thought $35 for one bottle was pricey, so I didn't order but then that was also 2nd day deliver. I took my son shopping today, he has lost a lot of weight this past year and he realized his size 38 shorts were way too big, he now needs size 34. He also needed sandals. This next charge card bill is going to be "ouch" between him and his sister.

We need a list made up with all of us and who has children and their ages. With this crazy midwest weather I really want on the ship now. We have been having colder weather this March than what we had all winter! I am so glad we are flying in a day early.
:D Kathy

[iluvorlando]

Welcome Chitown and KathyTX. If everyone will start giving names I will compile a list. Also, I found some lime green construction paper for a sign, do we need one?

OK - iluvorlando- michele, robert (both 30ish), regan 6, rachel 5
We have early seating and are in 8562.

Kathy, as far as the sea safe goes, I will look tomorrow and let you know. Have to go pick up a few more items for the medicine pack. If Walgreens doesn't have it, I am pretty sure I read that Ron Jon's does.

Only 6 more days!!
:D

[Mickey7811]

Would any one going on the March 16 cruise consider getting me two Artist Choice pins from Valentines day.

I was on the cruise and got off last Saturday and they still did not have the Valentines pins.

I could send you a check right away and you would have it to get the pins.

I am a big collector and aside from being sick my entire cruise - bronchitis - they did not have the pins.

Be prepared for the doctor visit - no insurance accepted - almost $200 - most expensive excursion on the ship - lol.

Darlene

[iluvorlando]

Darlene,

Sure, do you know how much they would be and what they look like? I would hate for you to send a check and them not have them, so how bout I look and if they do you can send me a check then? If they don't, then you wouldn't have to worry about the check getting back to you.

BTW, sorry you were sick. I will have to remember to tell my husband to call his insurance to find out what they cover. Do you happen to remember what movies were playing?

Michele

[tecdavidt]

For us it is Dave, Kathy, Ryan 18, David Jr. 18, Stephanie 9. We are suppose to have early dining and rooms 6120 & 6122. We will be flying in Friday and we will stay overnight at the Airport Hyatt. We are looking forword to meeting everyone on Sunday.

Iluvorlando, were is Ron Jon's located? Kathy

[iluvorlando]

Ron Jons is in Cocoa Beach. Very large has everything type surf shop. Open 24 hours a day. I will let you know later today if walgreens has it.:D

[nearlychildless]

nearlychildless -Tom and Susan (50 +) Bailey(female 15)- we have the 2nd seating and are in 2088.

[VondaP]

There are 4 of us. Me 35ish, dds 15, 9, & 8. We are in 5516.

Vonda

[iluvorlando]

Kathy, no luck at Walgreens for the Safe Sea. I guess Ron Jons will be your best bet.

Only 5 more days!:D

[WebmasterKathy]

We are Kathy, Tom and Andrew(8). We have stateroom 6096, and we are getting EXCITED!

Although we're down south in Texas, we've been getting the chilly weather, too. We are definitely ready for that warm Caribbean sunshine, and foo-foo drinks with umbrellas and silly names.

Kathy, my hubby grew up in Chariton. His sister works for the City of WDM, his brother and family live in WDM on Aspen, and his other brother and family are in Johnston. As small as WDM is, you could probably yell at them from your yard!

[iluvorlando]

Vonda - what are the names of your DD's?

I will let everyone know when I have the list done.

I hope this isn't a bad sign, I feel yucky today. Congested, and chills. Well if I am getting sick, better now then on Saturday!:eek:

[tecdavidt]

I lost my post! Then it posted twice. Kathy

[tecdavidt]

I lost my post! Vonda P. we used to live on 4950 Aspen Drive. Email me at kathyt@raccoon.com and I will tell you our address. We also use to go up to Johnston all the time to Hyperion Field Club. We boat down at Lake Rathbun which is just south of Chariton. That is cruising Iowa style on our 34' Sea Ray sundancer.

Iluvorando, thankyou for checking on the Sea Safe. I am trying to talk my husband Dave into going over to Ron Jon's but he wants to see Epcot which would be fun.

Can't wait until we get on the ship. We have been having Jan. weather in March and we had March weather in Jan. go figure. Kathy:cool:

[iluvorlando]

Kathy,
You could always head over to the port early, I don't think it is that far away.

Vonda,
Forgot to ask, do you have late seating or early?

Well off to bed, ttfn!:)

[VondaP]

mab,

My girls are Kaylie (15) Shelbie (9) and Cassadie (8). We have 2nd seating.

I found some Safe Sea at a local Dive shop. It was $14.95 and spf of 15. Considering this is the desert southwest, I didn't even know we had a dive shop. Try looking in your yellow pages for any dive shops and give them a call.

Vonda

[iluvorlando]

Vonda- that is a great idea! Kathy, if you want I could look around in the Orlando area, see if there is one close to where you are staying.

[tecdavidt]

That is a great idea VondaP, we do have a dive shop (which even has a pool where they teach diving!) really close to our house!. I'll give them a call. We are using DCL transfers so going early to the port won't work:( . Kathy

[lilboyblue]

Hey! I think we are almost ready for Saturday. We will try to be there on Sunday. We are Joel and Paula (mid-30's) and Matthew (8). I hope the weather is good on Saturday. We fly out that morning. If the trip had been this past Saturday we would still be in Minnesota (because of a reminder from Mother Nature that it is still winter).

[plutospal]

We'll be on board for the 3/16 sailing! Me, DH, DS (14) and DD (16) from Ankeny, IA (where it's cold now!). We're flying in Friday night so we can visit Ron Jon's Surf Shop early Saturday morning, before getting to the Port. Our 2nd Disney cruise with our 3rd booked for spring break, 2003! We plan to see all of you at the Promenade at 12:30 on Sunday!!

[tecdavidt]

I called the dive shop and no luck. I think the guy thought I was crazy for asking! Oh well.

Welcome aboard, plutospal and lilboyblue. Plutospal, go Ankeny girls for winning the Iowa Girls state Basketball title! We are from West Des Moines. We are also going in 2003 over Spring Break. Our teen boys won't be joining us on that cruise, they will be in college.

The weather is much nicer now than last weekend. I thought we were going to blow down to Florida! I can handle today's 50°.

Plutospal, if you go to Ron Jon's Surf Shop could you pick me up a bottle of the Sea Safe sun screen? It is a sun screen with anti sea lice protection. I can pay you during our Dis meet 12:30 Promenade Lounge. What are your flights out of Des Moines? We leave on American at 8:00 AM Friday morning and we are staying at the Airport Hyatt. Kathy:D

[tecdavidt]

Bumpin us up to page 1. Only three days till we fly to Orlando:bounce: Kathy

[iluvorlando]

Welcome plutospal! Can't wait to meet everyone on Sunday! Kathy, I will call a dive shop here and see if they have the lotion. I will keep you posted.

:D

[VondaP]

Kathy,

I think the shop where I bought the Safe Sea had one more. I can pick it up for you tomorrow if it's still there. I can call and have them hold it. We leave for US/IOA tomorrow in the evening. The one I bought was $14.95 + tax. It has an SPF of 15 and is 4 oz.

Vonda

[iluvorlando]

Kathy,
No luck on the sea safe. They are sold out. Sorry!:(
Michele

[tecdavidt]

That would be great VondaP. If you get it I will pay you at our DIS meet. I hope everyone comes. We have a nice group of people going from this board!

I bought a steamer from Sunbeam for our clothes. Every cruise I wish I had one so I finally bought one.

Iluvorando, thanks for checking. I posted on another thread this idea, why doesn't DCL see it aboard the ship? Not everyone cruising has access to stores that carry it and it would be covenient for not coastal cruisers if DCL sold it on the ship.

Kathy

[plutospal]

Hey, thanks to all for welcoming us to the DIS family! Kathy, I sent you an email off-board. If anyone has any orders for Ron Jon's, let me know. My 16 yr old daughter has tried to get to Ron Jon's the last 3 times we've been in FL, but comically it hasn't happened. We were at WDW over Christmas and New Years ---had a car rented for the Ron Jon journey and the car rental called us at the last minute saying they didn't have any cars ... all rentals were taken for that busy week and we didn't make it to Ron Jon's! Looking forward to meeting everyone! Can't wait!

[iluvorlando]

Kathy, I know what you mean about the sunbeam. My husband had to go to Tahoe, and he "had" to have one. Of course, as soon as he left, I found our travel iron!

Maybe DCL will read this about the Safe Sea. It would be a good thing for them to sell, especially since it has an SPF in it.

Plutospal, I hope you have a lot of time at Ron Jons, it is huge! Lots of cool clothes and stuff!

Off today to get the hair cut, then more laundry!
:D

[tecdavidt]

Plutospal, I didn't get the email. I tried using the boards around 10:00pm central time but I couldn't get on because the server was too busy. Did you send the email to kathyt@raccoon.com? or was it to dthompson@tecenv.com? I think Dave registered this site with his email address. It would be fun if we were on the same flights out of Des Moines. That happened last Feb. a friend of mine won a 7 day cruise from Prairie Meadows Casino! We had the exact flights going and coming home but different cruiselines. We flew all the way to San Juan together and back! It made the time in the airports go by quickly.

The Sunbeam steamer worked great when I tried it out. Next I need to buy and pack our wine. I always wrap well in bubble wrap and put it in its own suitcase that gets checked. On the way back that suitcase becomes the souvenir bag. I need to get last minute details finished, like typing up the list for my mother-in-law who looks after our home.

And of course, LAUNDRY!!! I try to have no dirty clothes waiting for me when we get home since I will have one weeks worth for 5 people.

Gotta go and get busy on this list of must do. Kathy:D

[iluvorlando]

Just bumping us up to page 1. Haven't had a chance to work on our list. Will try to do it tomorrow. Just found another family that we know is going too. They are DH, DW, and DD 4 or 5.

Booked our excursions today, last day to pre-book. Tried to get something from Magical Treasures, but was told it was too late, so we ordered from Shirley at the Perfect Gift. She was as nice as everyone has said here.

Serious packing time now! Is anyone still around?

[plutospal]

Kathy, I used the "email" button at the bottom of your post and that functionality doesn't give the email address to which the message (from me to you) is being sent. Technology! Anyway, I was just checking to BE SURE that you are getting your Sea Safe Sun Screen (if not, just let me know and I'll pick up some for you at Ron Jon's). We're flying out of Omaha Friday afternoon, staying Friday night at the Sheraton Suites (Priceline, $32!) and hitting Ron Jon's early Saturday morning before the port.

Can't wait for Friday! By the way, my name is Lacy (and my board name is actually PlutosMom -- I've been using my husbands sign in and he is plutospal). My 14 year old son still loves Pluto !

[jgeurin]

Sorry that I haven't posted in so long. I'm in Orlando now. Nearlychildless asked about our seating: it is second. I went to Cocoa Beach a couple of days ago, and there were no sea lice there. I can't vouch for the water in the Carribean though.

See everyone on the Promenade Deck.

Jim

[iluvorlando]

Will try to do the list today, thanks for letting me know what seating you have Jim, I think nearlychildless also had second.

Kids are getting super excited now!

Only 2 more days!!!:D

[nearlychildless]

Yes we have second seating also. As to fears the teen activities will be to young, I think that as the age group is 13 to 18 our daughters will be the perfect ages. I have read several posting where the 13 years olds felt out of place. I am sure my daughter will be at the, i think they call it the,411 meeting in the common ground on Sat. Her name is Bailey and she has dark hair and has as, she describes it, embarassingly pale skin to go a cruise.

[tecdavidt]

Hi Lucy, I still didn't get that email. I sent you one using that button also, oh well. Now that Ankeny boys are hot in the State B-ball tourny, are you still going? Like I need to ask that question. I did not get any Sea Safe so if you do make it over to Ron Jon's could you please pick me up one bottle, thank you. I called the dive shop over here in WDM and they thought I was crazy asking for such a product.

Yes the prices are cheaper driving to Omaha or KC. We have our own company and my husband doesn't want to miss much work, which means he prefers no driving when we get back. At least you have decent weather for the little trip. I am originally from Lincoln, NE so I know that trip well. Yes, I am a Husker fan but I graduated from ISU.

For all of you with teens, our teens rarely did the teen activities. The most important activity to them was "hanging out" with their new found friends. They still have contact with the teens they met on past DCL cruises. Remember paper and something to write with to get the email addresses on the last day.

Now I need to PACK! Remember if you are flying in one day ahead and are staying at the Airport Hyatt and using DCL transfers do not use the yellow Magic luggage tags until you put your luggage out for the porters the day of the cruise.

See all of you Disers soon. Dave and Kathy Thompson:cool:

[iluvorlando]

Just bumping us back up to page 1. The boards have been super busy.

Working on list. See you all on Sunday.