Coach's First Pre-Trip Report - (Final Update) We are leaving in 4 hours!!!

[Coach81]

Well I've decided to take the plunge, I have been debating on whether or not to do one of these, but here goes.

The cast:

DW- Alisa (30 something...she'd kill me) She is the Disney Queen, she has grown up with- and always loved- Disney. She along with my two boys (as you'll see later) have completely brought me over to the "dark side" I am now almost as obsessed with the mouse as she is.
DS1- Chase - 10 living with autism (he is highly functional, and a great kid who :lovestruc Disney!)
DS2- Zach - 5 Poor thing he is his father reborn! A drama king, happy-go-lucky, and absolutely a stud in the making (sorry had to put that one in there).
And me- 38 year old former head football coach, current head soccer coach for both girls and boys team, and soon-to-be assistant football coach at my new school (long story there, not sure if we will get into all of that) I coach varsity football and soccer at a local high school (5A classification) here in Louisiana.

Here is your first pic of the family posing for what else, our pre-trip photo from last February (you can tell this picture was taken early in the morning, we are so sleepy).

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02818.jpg

Our next vacation trip to Disney World begins on February 2nd (just 30 days away now:banana: ) and we are so anxious and excited!

Up next: Who needs Mardi Gras? Why I HATE Mardi Gras, and why we LOVE to head to Disney during Mardi Gras break!!!

[Brave teacher]

Looking forward to it. ALisa is going to kill you for that pic!

[jordanyosh]

I'm in. Looking forward to hearing more......:thumbsup2

[Blueyed Girl]

Yay, another fellow Louisianian.:) We are going the week after Mardi Gras. Can't wait to read more!

[Coach81]

Looking forward to it. ALisa is going to kill you for that pic!

It's not too bad of her, look at ME! I look totally out of it :rotfl: @ !

I let Alisa know about it..

[Coach81]

I'm in. Looking forward to hearing more......:thumbsup2

Thanks and Welcome!

[Coach81]

Yay, another fellow Louisianian.:) We are going the week after Mardi Gras. Can't wait to read more!

Welcome aboard! What part of Louisiana you from?

[scottny]

Hi,
Followed you over from Jordan's thread, I believe. anyway I found it. Looking forward to hearing about it.

[Coach81]

Hi,
Followed you over from Jordan's thread, I believe. anyway I found it. Looking forward to hearing about it.

Hello Scottny! Glad to have you! Next update coming soon!

[Coach81]

I hate mardi gras. I know that millions of my fellow Louisianaians(sp) would string me up for saying such a thing about their beloved holiday, but I really do hate it. When I was a kid growing up I could tolerate them, go catch a few beads, cups, stuffed animals, it was kinda cool. Maybe its just that I am older now with my own children, or maybe it is just how the "holiday" has progressed over the years. I my opinion mardi gras has become a state-wide excuse to get drunk or stoned and see how much of an idiot you can make of yourself. I do not want to be around people like that (which are the overwhelming majority IMO) and I certainly don't want my kids to be around them either. This may be one of the reasons why I bet Disney will be overun with cajuns come mardi gras week! I think more and more people from Louisiana are getting tired of the "lets all party 'til we puke" mentality that has become mardi gras, and want to get away to a happier, better place- DISNEY WORLD :yay:

My wife and I have gone to Disney several times over the mardi gras holidays and have had a wonderful time. This past February (which you will see some pics of soon), we had a great time, but it was also the same week as president's week, and boy was it crowded! So we have been planning our annual trip to Disney for months now. We have just recently bought into DVC and in my next update I'll tell you why we did.

Next Update: DVC- Why???

[planetcaravan19f]

Excited to read your Pre-TR!!

I live in a real big tourist spot...well big for Michigan:lmao:...and I am going to guess that one of the reasons you hate Mardi Gras is ALL THE PEOPLE!!!

[Blueyed Girl]

I totally agree about Mardi Gras! I don't completely hate it but I have a strong dislike for it.:rotfl: We've started going ONLY to the children's parade during the day. We haven't gone to a night parade in years. I have a small write up about parades in my PTR.

Can't wait to hear your story about DVC. We are thinking of doing this also.

[jordanyosh]

I would've loved to go to Mardi Gras........................................25 years ago.

Now..not so much.

However, I do want to visit the New Orleans area.

Our church has worked with Service International since Katrina and we've sent several teams to help with demo and rebuilding. We have a group of college/young adults there right now. I feel for them as it is cold, right?

[Brave teacher]

You know that Bryan and I share your MG feelings as well. Just waiting for your next post.

[Coach81]

So we were looking into DVC for the past year or so... at first we dismissed it as too expensive, and too much of a financial burden (I am a teacher, don't forget). Then we paid off a few bills, got a raise, and all of a sudden we realized that we could swing it..

But you know what, enough typing.. I think a video would best explain our decision to go DVC... enjoy!

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/th_Disvid.jpg (http://s148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/?action=view&current=Disvid.flv)

Next Update: One more member of the cast.. and why Alisa is terrified of the travel to Disney.

[Blueyed Girl]

Awwww!! That was such a nice video. Hopefully we can buy into DVC soon too.

[Brave teacher]

You're doing a great job!

Hey! You have more than just one more person added to your trip!!! I'm offended.

JUST KIDDING!

Why, oh why, is Alisa terrified?

Great video!

[Coach81]

Excited to read your Pre-TR!!

I live in a real big tourist spot...well big for Michigan:lmao:...and I am going to guess that one of the reasons you hate Mardi Gras is ALL THE PEOPLE!!!

Hey Planet! Not just all the people, but for the most part the frame of mind of people that come to our state for the week.. its all party, party, party!!! I guess if you've never been it might be a good time, but for me and my family.. we are soo looking forward to getting away and going to the happiest place on earth :banana: !

[Coach81]

I would've loved to go to Mardi Gras........................................25 years ago.

Now..not so much.

However, I do want to visit the New Orleans area.

Our church has worked with Service International since Katrina and we've sent several teams to help with demo and rebuilding. We have a group of college/young adults there right now. I feel for them as it is cold, right?

As I type this it is 28 degrees outside my home. That would be about 20 degrees anywhere else with all of our wonderful humidity! Here in Louisiana its not just cold, its "sticky cold", and when the wind blows with it.. brrrrrrr.

[Coach81]

You're doing a great job!

Hey! You have more than just one more person added to your trip!!! I'm offended.

JUST KIDDING!

Why, oh why, is Alisa terrified?

Great video!

I know.. we are ALL going! Looking forward to talking about your wonderful family a bit as well during this report!

Megan (Brave teacher) and her family will be trekking with us when we leave (they will be staying at another resort, but we plan on hangin out a good bit with them).

Stay Tuned! Plenty more to come popcorn::

[scottny]

great video. My trip is in 2 weeks and that just made me want it to come faster. Congrats on the DVC. I am holding out for the rumored Contemporary then I will buy.

Looking forward to more.

[jordanyosh]

Great video....:thumbsup2

[Coach81]

great video. My trip is in 2 weeks and that just made me want it to come faster. Congrats on the DVC. I am holding out for the rumored Contemporary then I will buy.

Looking forward to more.

Thanks Scottny! Wow just 2 weeks away! Are you all packed and ready? Guess I'll head out to check on your PTR to see how you are doing...


Originally posted by jordanyosh
Great video...:thumbsup2

Thanks Jordanyosh, I think it really best illustrates why we love Disney so much, and why we made the commitment to DVC.

[scottny]

Thanks Scottny! Wow just 2 weeks away! Are you all packed and ready? Guess I'll head out to check on your PTR to see how you are doing...


I am one of those packers that does it the night before. I will do laundry and pack all on the evening before I leave. I like pressure. :lmao:

[Beana9802]

I am joining all of you Louisiana people....Jealous of all of you!!!

I am a teacher in NY, and rarely get a trip down, because all the times I can go...well, everyone else in the Northeast can go, and it is WICKED expensive. My dream is to buy into DVC one day....so I'll live vicariously through you...:happytv:

:)

[Coach81]

I am joining all of you Louisiana people....Jealous of all of you!!!

I am a teacher in NY, and rarely get a trip down, because all the times I can go...well, everyone else in the Northeast can go, and it is WICKED expensive. My dream is to buy into DVC one day....so I'll live vicariously through you...:happytv:

:)

Sorry to hear that you don't have a "mardi gras" of your own :guilty:

Well, feel free to enjoy my PTR, and Trip Report when we get back!!!

[Coach81]

I need to introduce the other member of our crew that will be traveling and staying with us. His name is Jerry, his nickname is Bubba.

Here he is on the right with Chase my 10 year old:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/bubbaandchase.jpg

Bubba is in his early 30's and is very excited about joining us next month as well.

DW Alisa is terrified of the 10+ hour trip (according to mapquest) from home to Disney. The problem is, she knows that Chase and Zach will probably fight and cause disturbances during the long trip, but what she is really concerned about is that Bubba tends to get aggravated with the boys as well..so there is the potential for some serious problems when you put all of them in a confined area for that long.

Alisa's best solution to the problem: portable DVD players, CD players, PSPs, and V-smiles!!!! She has already told all of them headphones will be mandatory!!!

First part of our plan for the roadtrip on Feb 2nd: leave at 4am.. hopefully we can knock out the first few hours of travel while all of the boys will still be SLEEPING!!!

By the way here are a few of the particulars of our trip:

Arrive at All-Star Music on Feb 2nd (after the 10+ hour drive) then on the 3rd, check in for the first time at Old Key West Resort (our first trip 'home' using DVC :yay: ) we will head back home on the 8th.

Next Up- What is the deal with Brave teacher and her family????

[jordanyosh]

Who is Jerry and who is he to you....just curious......

[scottny]

Who is Jerry and who is he to you....just curious......

I 2nd this.

[Coach81]

Who is Jerry and who is he to you....just curious......

Originally posted by scottny
I 2nd this.
Ah.. great question! Getting a bit ahead of myself aren't I? No, Bubba is not just some dude off the street that we decided to bring along to Disney with us :rotfl2: Bubba is actually my DW's brother.. which makes him my brother-in-law so sorry guys, thanks for keeping me honest!

[Beana9802]

Sorry to hear that you don't have a "mardi gras" of your own :guilty:

Well, feel free to enjoy my PTR, and Trip Report when we get back!!!

Thanks! Have fun!

[jordanyosh]

Ah.. great question! Getting a bit ahead of myself aren't I? No, Bubba is not just some dude off the street that we decided to bring along to Disney with us :rotfl2: Bubba is actually my DW's brother.. which makes him my brother-in-law so sorry guys, thanks for keeping me honest!

Ahh...now your post makes more sense as far as the ride situation goes...

[Coach81]

Brave teacher is a full Disney freak convert from my wife. She loved Disney before, but since her and my wife have gotten together she has become a Disney Queen all herself. I actually taught her husband (and I'm still only 25 :laughing: ), and he and I have become very good friends over the last few years. They have two beautiful boys, and their oldest and my son Zach love to play and hang out together. Here is a recent pic of the two of them for Christmas:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC04552.jpg

As I have stated before both families will be at Disney at the same time. The wives will be more or less running the show (with DW being the Queen), and the poor husbands and children will be at their mercy. We hope that we can get together a good bit and allow Zach and Samuel (his name) to enjoy the experience together.

Brave teacher's hubby is also debating over DVC or not, well if she and I have our way, they'll be onboard inside of a year or sooner :banana:

Brave teacher herself is a classic what you guys call.. a "lurker". She can be found nearly every day on her new hot-pink Dell Laptop scanning through these boards reading, researching... but rarely posting.

We are looking forward to the experience and memories we will build with Brave teacher and her family in less than 30 days now!

Next Update- A few memorable pics and stories from this past years trip to Disney. Don't miss it!

[Native NYer]

Hi!! I'm enjoying your trip report and am looking forward to reading more! You have a lovely family. How's the weather in Louisiana? It's FREEZING in NYC!!! Because of this weather, my assistant teacher and I have to have our kindergartners start packing up 10 minutes earlier to zip all of the coats and help them get their tiny hands into gloves!

My dad's family is originally from Louisiana and hates Mardi Gras as well. He says he's rather go anywhere than back to New Orleans for Mardi Gras. Plus, we can ride the subway and see crazy drunk people. Where in Louisiana are you from?

[scottny]

We are looking forward to the experience and memories we will build with Brave teacher and her family in less than 30 days now!


and we are looking forward to hearing all about it.

[Brave teacher]

AWWWW! I can't wait for the the next month to fly by. Watching these two boys in WDW is going to be the best memories we will make in Disney to date. They are two peas in a pod.

BTW, DVC will become reality by the end of the year! WOO HOO!!!

[Coach81]

Hi!! I'm enjoying your trip report and am looking forward to reading more! You have a lovely family. How's the weather in Louisiana? It's FREEZING in NYC!!! Because of this weather, my assistant teacher and I have to have our kindergartners start packing up 10 minutes earlier to zip all of the coats and help them get their tiny hands into gloves!

My dad's family is originally from Louisiana and hates Mardi Gras as well. He says he's rather go anywhere than back to New Orleans for Mardi Gras. Plus, we can ride the subway and see crazy drunk people. Where in Louisiana are you from?



Hey NYer! The winters in LA are always crazy. For example, last Wednesday I was coaching soccer in 28 degree weather freezing my tail off, and yesterday it was about 75 and muggy, no wonder my wife is trying to get over a cold :sick: I second your father's saying, I really hate what mardi gras has become. We are about an hour or so south of New Orleans, and yes, contrary to what you may have been led to believe- there are things south of New Orleans, and no I've never "been" with my sister (maybe just made out once or twice :love: (JUST KIDDING), and no my family and I don't live in a house on stilts, and no we don't have to paddle to school or work, and yes we are actually somewhat educated... --- sorry for the vent.. but my wife and I have the idea that most people from up north truly believe that we live like we are depicted in movies like The Waterboy with Adam Sandler, and its simply not true (for most of us anyway ;)

But anyway, we've seen on the news about the weather up there. DW says if my coaching career ever takes us anywhere, that would be fine, but we can't move anywhere where it is too cold!

Welcome to the PTR, glad to have you, enjoy!

from Brave teacher
AWWWW! I can't wait for the the next month to fly by. Watching these two boys in WDW is going to be the best memories we will make in Disney to date. They are two peas in a pod.

BTW, DVC will become reality by the end of the year! WOO HOO!!!

I agree, Zach and Sam sure have fun whenever they are together, I am really looking forward to watching them get after it with the mouse. If DW is feeling up to it, Zach & Sam will be able to hook up today to play a bit while you two get your Disney fix at the Disney Store (God help my bank account :eek: ). As far as DVC, I can only tell you how nice it is not to have to worry about any hotels and such for the two times we are going to the Orlando area this year. We are really excited about our DVC investment, and as I have told you, we are already looking into using our membership for a Disney Cruise in 2009.

Next update coming in a few mins!!!

[Coach81]

First... a few signs that you are a Disney Queen (or that you need some "Disney Dependance / Disney Obsession" counseling):

If you have a binder or binders that look something like these:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02808.jpg

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02810.jpg

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02809.jpg

or if your licence plate has this around it:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/blackplate.jpg

My DW spent weeks and weeks last year working on her binder, she had every day from morning until bedtime planned out. Notice the color coded (red, green, or yellow) days from TGM? How many of you out there subscribe to Tour Guide Mike (TGM)? DW is a TGM addict. My only little problem with TGM is that he tells you which park to visit to avoid the crowds.. well what if he's wrong? Its not like you can get your money back or anything if you end up waiting in line for 2 hours at a "green park", right? I mean I could start a website and call it "Coach's avoid the crowds site" and suggest the same thing... (boy am I going to get flamed for making that comment *puts flamesuit on*).

But I would like to discuss the binders and such.. anyone want to compare???

Next Update- Last year's trip part 2

[scottny]

I have TGM but I prefer ug's site. they now have a button where u can put in your own tour plan and restaurants for that day and they give u a map and the dining menus. really cool.
The binder looks great.

[Brave teacher]

I have TGM but I prefer ug's site. they now have a button where u can put in your own tour plan and restaurants for that day and they give u a map and the dining menus. really cool.
The binder looks great.

UG's site?. Do tell, do tell!

[Blueyed Girl]

Great updates, Bobby Bouchier!! :lmao:

I love the binder!! I have pic's of mine on my PTR too, although I don't have all day of each day pre-planned out. We know which parks we are going to on which day and we have ADR's but we leave the rest open. We have idea's but don't really put them to paper.

Sounds like you guys and Brave Teacher & family are going to have a BLAST!!:thumbsup2

[scottny]

UG's site?. Do tell, do tell!

i sent u a pm all about it.

[Native NYer]

[QUOTE=Coach81;22433039]Hey NYer! The winters in LA are always crazy. For example, last Wednesday I was coaching soccer in 28 degree weather freezing my tail off, and yesterday it was about 75 and muggy, no wonder my wife is trying to get over a cold :sick: I second your father's saying, I really hate what mardi gras has become. We are about an hour or so south of New Orleans, and yes, contrary to what you may have been led to believe- there are things south of New Orleans, and no I've never "been" with my sister (maybe just made out once or twice :love: (JUST KIDDING), and no my family and I don't live in a house on stilts, and no we don't have to paddle to school or work, and yes we are actually somewhat educated... --- sorry for the vent.. but my wife and I have the idea that most people from up north truly believe that we live like we are depicted in movies like The Waterboy with Adam Sandler, and its simply not true (for most of us anyway ;)

But anyway, we've seen on the news about the weather up there. DW says if my coaching career ever takes us anywhere, that would be fine, but we can't move anywhere where it is too cold!

Welcome to the PTR, glad to have you, enjoy!QUOTE]

Actually most of my friends think that Louisiana is the French Quarter and Bourbon Street! I suggest places to visit and they manage only to find the inside of bars. So sad! Even though I'm a native NYer, my family has educated me quite well on life in Louisiana. Come to think of it, prior to Hurricane Katrina, I was actually considering relocating there to teach. But a visit this year is definitely in the cards. No pralines in NYC! I may need an insulin shot afterwards, but I def want pralines!

The Waterboy is quite funny, I must admit!

I teach at a K-12 school that uhmmm is quite interesting athletics-wise. I'd love to see a football team at the school, but for right now it's all about basketball and lacrosse. Can you imagine???

Anyway, I digress....

I am so enjoying your pre-trip report. It's prompting me to write my own! I leave in less than two weeks and am definitely not as organized as you and your wife! I should send her a plane ticket to NYC so she can help me get it together!!!!

BTW, your sons are so cute! I hope they have a fabulous time. They're very lucky to have parents that are obsessed with Disney!

Love your wife's binder!

[scottny]

I should send her a plane ticket to NYC so she can help me get it together!!!!

if u do can she organize my trip to. I am in the city so I am close. :thumbsup2
U should do a pre tr, it is alot of fun.

[Native NYer]

I think I will start one tomorrow. It may calm my nerves a bit!

Where in NYC?

[scottny]

I think I will start one tomorrow. It may calm my nerves a bit!

Where in NYC?

upper west side. lincoln center area.

[jordanyosh]

Discuss Binders:

Here's my very basic binder:
http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc299/jordanyosh/IMG_3060.jpg

and here's a picture of the spreadsheet:
http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc299/jordanyosh/IMG_3069.jpg

Here's binder at DL:
http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc299/jordanyosh/DLminiTR017.jpg

[Native NYer]

I'm an overplanner (maybe a bit of OCD) and I feel like I have completely underplanned! :scared1: I would have never thought to arrange everything in a binder. Maybe that needs to be a project for our August trip.

[Coach81]

NativeNY wrote: Actually most of my friends think that Louisiana is the French Quarter and Bourbon Street! I suggest places to visit and they manage only to find the inside of bars. So sad! Even though I'm a native NYer, my family has educated me quite well on life in Louisiana. Come to think of it, prior to Hurricane Katrina, I was actually considering relocating there to teach. But a visit this year is definitely in the cards. No pralines in NYC! I may need an insulin shot afterwards, but I def want pralines!

The Waterboy is quite funny, I must admit!

I teach at a K-12 school that uhmmm is quite interesting athletics-wise. I'd love to see a football team at the school, but for right now it's all about basketball and lacrosse. Can you imagine???

Anyway, I digress....

I am so enjoying your pre-trip report. It's prompting me to write my own! I leave in less than two weeks and am definitely not as organized as you and your wife! I should send her a plane ticket to NYC so she can help me get it together!!!!

BTW, your sons are so cute! I hope they have a fabulous time. They're very lucky to have parents that are obsessed with Disney!

Love your wife's binder!

ummm Pralines... great stuff! Just not too good for you! Wow.. a high school with no football.. incredible. No, I truly cannot imagine that.

My wife is very good at planning and organizing us for Disney, I truly hope that now that we have DVC we can stop going quite so "commando" and slow down a bit knowing that we will be back soon!

Thank you for the compliment on my kids, they are my world! I didn't have a opportunity to visit Disney until I was nearly an adult, I want my kids to experience the magic as they grow up!

[Coach81]

Awesome Binders, Jordanyosh! Thanks for the pics!

[planetcaravan19f]

Love the Binder Coach!! I have to have that lisence plate frame!!! Hope I see it while I'm there!!!

i sent u a pm all about it.

Scottny, would you mind sending me a pm about the mysterious Ug site too? please and thankyou!!!!

[scottny]

Love the Binder Coach!! I have to have that lisence plate frame!!! Hope I see it while I'm there!!!



Scottny, would you mind sending me a pm about the mysterious Ug site too? please and thankyou!!!!

sent it

[Coach81]

Next update will have to wait a bit as I go celebrate LSU's bid for another NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP :cheer2:

GOOOOO TIGERS!!!!!!!!!!

[Coach81]

Congrats to the LSU Tigers as they become the first team to win the national championship under the BCS twice!!!! :cheer2:

Way to go LSU!!!

Me and my family, just like the majority of people I'm sure will be sporting our LSU colors during our visit next month to Disney!!!!

[ChevyNat]

I never used a binder, just put everything in a little handbook... but..... that looks really cool... thank's for sharing...

[Coach81]

I never used a binder, just put everything in a little handbook... but..... that looks really cool... thank's for sharing...

Well I can tell you.. binders are abundant on these pre-trip reports! My wife is already updated her binder for our trip in a few weeks. You may want to look into it, it helps keep you organized for the trip!

Just recently had some friends get back from Disney and they said they "didn't make it" to Animal Kingdom.. I said what :scared1: How do you not make it to AK??? They were there for about a week and didn't go to AK. They also did not use a dozen or so table services on their DDP!!!!

So a binder with all the things that you really want to do on it, as well as perhaps some way to keep track of your meals (if you're on the DDP) might be a good idea.

Just a thought.. Next update coming tonight.

[Brave teacher]

Well I can tell you.. binders are abundant on these pre-trip reports! My wife is already updated her binder for our trip in a few weeks. You may want to look into it, it helps keep you organized for the trip!

Just recently had some friends get back from Disney and they said they "didn't make it" to Animal Kingdom.. I said what :scared1: How do you not make it to AK??? They were there for about a week and didn't go to AK. They also did not use a dozen or so table services on their DDP!!!!

So a binder with all the things that you really want to do on it, as well as perhaps some way to keep track of your meals (if you're on the DDP) might be a good idea.

Just a thought.. Next update coming tonight.

I posted a thread on this earlier today. I'll post the link in a little bit, but I know...SHOCKING!!!

[Brave teacher]

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1680829

[Coach81]

One of my favorite pictures from last year's trip to WDW is one of my youngest son going to bed the night before we left, you can see the look of excitement and anticipation in his face.. check it out:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02813-1.jpg

I never had a chance to experience Disney until I was nearly 18, it chokes me up when I think about the gift that my wife and I are giving our boys when we go to Disney (I'm such a wuss). Zach & Chase have grown up with Disney, and they love it. Anyway.. more pics..

A big pic of the wife and kids on the plane:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02824.jpg

For our previous two trips we flew, and I must say that is the best way to go. It is so awesome to leave your home and check in within 4 or so hours. But to conserve funds, we will probably be driving from now on. We will leave in the wee hours of the morning and try to knock out a good chunk of the 10+ hours while the boys sleep. As stated previously, DW is not looking forward to the drive, but she has a good plan in place (DVD, CD, PSP, with headsets).

Here is a shot of the ME bus from the airport:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02827.jpg

ME was awesome, leave it to Disney to make it so convenient to get from the airport to your resort so that you can start spending your money right away :laughing:

Here is the lobby of All Star Movies at checkin:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02832.jpg

We enjoyed the value resorts, but we had a few bad experiences there the last few times we stayed which led me to my statement during last year's trip "We will never stay at a value resort again!" Which my loving wife used as ammo to help me decide to get DVC :idea:

A few pics of the resort:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02839.jpg

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02840.jpg
Zach is just a bit excited..eh??? I LOVE IT!!!!
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02836.jpg

We were so excited... check in was a breeze (thanks in a big part to my wife having all her confirmation numbers, and whatnot ready to go from "the binder").

Quick story (which was one thing that led me to the "never again" statement-One of the boys got sick the first night..puked all over the bed :sad2: I called the front desk 3 times and got no response, I called pizza delivery.. no help.. frantically I called to make a new reservation and I finally got someone to talk to me.. I informed them of the issue and a few mins later (about midnight btw) we had a mousekeeper come in and take care of it. She did an awesome job, but I was very upset that I took so much to get someone to help us :mad:

I'll leave you with another pic that my wife and I love... a picture of MK before anyone else is in the park, we got ressies at CP and I snapped this picture:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02909.jpg

Next Update: More pics and stories from last year, and I'll start spilling the "tentative plans" for our trip just 26 days away now :cool1:

[Brave teacher]

Next Update: More pics and stories from last year, and I'll start spilling the "tentative plans" for our trip just 26 days away now :cool1:

Dude, fix the ticker! As Samuel told you last night when he took his Mickey head off of his mirror, "We go to Mickey's house in 25 days!" He's taking off #25 tonight.

You know I could look at these pics ALL DAY!

[scottny]

I love the pic of the empty park.

[jordanyosh]

Great pic of the empty park...:thumbsup2

[Coach81]

I love the pic of the empty park.

Great pic of the empty park...:thumbsup2

Thanks guys, one of our favs to!

[coteau_chick]

I am enjoying your pre-trip report. You have a wonderful family. I also subscribe to TGM. I am counting on his tour plan to be accurate. I must have missed something because I don't have a binder. I do have a folder though. :thumbsup2

[Blueyed Girl]

Great pics!! :thumbsup2

Oh, and you're going to LOVE OKW!!

[Coach81]

Great pics!! :thumbsup2

Oh, and you're going to LOVE OKW!!

Really? We are sooo excited :banana:

Don't suppose you have a few pics of OKW to share?

I am enjoying your pre-trip report. You have a wonderful family. I also subscribe to TGM. I am counting on his tour plan to be accurate. I must have missed something because I don't have a binder. I do have a folder though. :thumbsup2

Thank you, we are blessed. A folder is just as good as a binder!!! Remember, don' t judge a book.....

[Coach81]

DW went buy a rolling box of some kind.. she said its her answer to "owners locker". She's already put in some extra laundry detergent, and a few other toiletry items. Let the pre-packing begin!!!


Only 3 and a half weeks until we are headed to Disney!!!!

Next Update coming tonight!

[Blueyed Girl]

DW went buy a rolling box of some kind.. she said its her answer to "owners locker". She's already put in some extra laundry detergent, and a few other toiletry items. Let the pre-packing begin!!!


Only 3 and a half weeks until we are headed to Disney!!!!

Next Update coming tonight!

I can't remember...are you guys staying in a 1 bedroom? They provide a travel sized bottle of laundry detergent. We brought another one but never had to use it. Also, they are stocked with all the plates, silverware, paper towels, etc. We brought way too much stuff last time thinking we'd need it but they have pretty much all of it covered......except Community Coffee. We are definitely bringing that again.:thumbsup2

[Blueyed Girl]

Here are some pic's I have of OKW.....

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/158/426170841_ce17f26116_m.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1035/594587596_b3830dbb92_m.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1185/594587456_eb0d04fa12_m.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1041/594587644_612c0dad31.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1165/594587582_20bf6f37d7_m.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1177/594587578_7f158effa7_m.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2233/2183908806_08e8afc3c0_m.jpg

[Coach81]

I can't remember...are you guys staying in a 1 bedroom? They provide a travel sized bottle of laundry detergent. We brought another one but never had to use it. Also, they are stocked with all the plates, silverware, paper towels, etc. We brought way too much stuff last time thinking we'd need it but they have pretty much all of it covered......except Community Coffee. We are definitely bringing that again.:thumbsup2

Wife is aware of the supplied goods, guess she wants to be safe. I'm sure she'll pack some dishwashing liquid and other stuff.. just like you guys, I don't think my wife can help it. Oh well, we'll live and learn I guess :confused3

[coteau_chick]

I can't remember...are you guys staying in a 1 bedroom? They provide a travel sized bottle of laundry detergent. We brought another one but never had to use it. Also, they are stocked with all the plates, silverware, paper towels, etc. We brought way too much stuff last time thinking we'd need it but they have pretty much all of it covered......except Community Coffee. We are definitely bringing that again.:thumbsup2

I am with you on the Community Coffe. I am bringing ours too. Its the only coffee I drink.:thumbsup2

[Native NYer]

OKW looks beautiful! You're going to have a great time! :goodvibes

[Coach81]

Blueyed Girl -Here are some pic's I have of OKW.....


Awesome pics!!! Thanks so much.. now I'm REALLY EXCITED :goodvibes :cool1: :banana: :rotfl:

Looks very nice...

Here comes latest update....

[Coach81]

That first morning after we arrived.. we got up real early and boy was it cold!

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02902.jpg

I was so awake and excited!!!

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02905.jpg

First thing we saw while walking up to MK:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02848.jpg

This picture gets me excited about our next trip.. "Where dreams come true"
Notice that Chase has his park map firmly in hand.. he is such a great organizer. He loves to make a plan, and a good schedule, then he can't wait to follow it!

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02850.jpg


My favorite pic from Spectromagic:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02886.jpg
She is soo HOT!!!!

A great picture of DW with Zach.. we are so happy at Disney!!!

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02863.jpg

Last picture for this update is a true classic, the family in front of the Castle with hardly a soul around!!!!

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02911.jpg

We managed that shot because we had just come from Crystal Palace Character Breakfast.. more on that later..

Tentative plans...

Pack night before departure (Brave teacher is allowing us to use her vehicle for the trip, it should easily hold our entire party of 5). Get on the road early on day of departure (as I stated in a previous update), drive until about 9 am.. stop, eat breakfast, let the kids stretch out a bit. Hit the road again and drive until about 1 or 2 pm.. if we are not at Disney yet, we will stop and get a bite to eat somewhere. While we are traveling, the plan is to have "trivia time" with Brave teacher and her husband with walkie talkies to help pass the time. We hope to arrive at our resorts (All Star Music for us the first night) around 4 or so Florida time. Once we arrive, we will go turn in our AP vouchers for our Annual Passes :cool1: If we are not totally exhausted, we may sneak to Epcot and check out Illuminations.

Next Update- A few more pics.. a short video, and more plans!!!

[coteau_chick]

That first morning after we arrived.. we got up real early and boy was it cold!

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02902.jpg

I was so awake and excited!!!

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02905.jpg

First thing we saw while walking up to MK:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02848.jpg

This picture gets me excited about our next trip.. "Where dreams come true"
Notice that Chase has his park map firmly in hand.. he is such a great organizer. He loves to make a plan, and a good schedule, then he can't wait to follow it!

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02850.jpg


My favorite pic from Spectromagic:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02886.jpg
She is soo HOT!!!!

A great picture of DW with Zach.. we are so happy at Disney!!!

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02863.jpg

Last picture for this update is a true classic, the family in front of the Castle with hardly a soul around!!!!

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02911.jpg

We managed that shot because we had just come from Crystal Palace Character Breakfast.. more on that later..

Tentative plans...

Pack night before departure (Brave teacher is allowing us to use her vehicle for the trip, it should easily hold our entire party of 5). Get on the road early on day of departure (as I stated in a previous update), drive until about 9 am.. stop, eat breakfast, let the kids stretch out a bit. Hit the road again and drive until about 1 or 2 pm.. if we are not at Disney yet, we will stop and get a bite to eat somewhere. While we are traveling, the plan is to have "trivia time" with Brave teacher and her husband with walkie talkies to help pass the time. We hope to arrive at our resorts (All Star Music for us the first night) around 4 or so Florida time. Once we arrive, we will go turn in our AP vouchers for our Annual Passes :cool1: If we are not totally exhausted, we may sneak to Epcot and check out Illuminations.

Next Update- A few more pics.. a short video, and more plans!!!

That sounds like a good plan to me. The pictures from your last trip are so good. What month did yall go in? It sure looks cold. I'm sure you probally already said what month you went in but I forgot. :surfweb:

[jordanyosh]

That pic in front of the castle is fantastic.......

Driving to WDW is just so foreign to me.....being from the West Coast and all.

[Coach81]

That sounds like a good plan to me. The pictures from your last trip are so good. What month did yall go in? It sure looks cold. I'm sure you probally already said what month you went in but I forgot. :surfweb:

We went last February. The first few days were extremely cold (as you can see)! We went during mardi gras last year (just like this year), problem was it was the same week as president's week, and it was also very crowded! But we had a fantastic time, and in just a few weeks we'll be back :woohoo:

That pic in front of the castle is fantastic.......

Driving to WDW is just so foreign to me.....being from the West Coast and all.

If money were not an object, we would fly everytime. It is just so great to get there in just a few hours. Having to drive basically takes away 2 days from our vacation :headache: But now that we will be going at least once (this year twice :goodvibes ) a year, driving is needed to conserve funds.

[Brave teacher]

DON'T WRECK MY CAR!!!!!LOL

We are so gonna beat you and Alisa with the trivia.

Reminder - If Alisa and I go shopping this weekend at the Disney Store, buy winter gear for the boys just in case....

Great job...

[Coach81]

DON'T WRECK MY CAR!!!!!LOL

We are so gonna beat you and Alisa with the trivia.

Reminder - If Alisa and I go shopping this weekend at the Disney Store, buy winter gear for the boys just in case....

Great job...

Oh no... she said the word... "buy" :scared:

[jordanyosh]

Oh no... she said the word... "buy" :scared:

Hopefully there aren't two words inserted between buy and winter gear.....

.....alot of.............

[winkers]

HI! I followed you over from another tr I was reading.

It sounds like you're going to have a great trip!

[TunaJr]

Finally, caught up on your pre-trip......Love the joining DVC video.....We joined DVC in January of 2007 and been home twice...once in June and again at thanksgiving.....both of our stays were at SSR.....our first trip we stayed in Congress Park and over thanksgiving we were in the Grandstand....We just love SSR.....We would like to try OKW in the future looking forward to your report about OKW.......


I know about those long drives to the Mouse...it takes us from 12 to 14 hours to drive:eek: ........this past trip we left at midnight and we pulled into the resort right before 1 in the afternoon..........

Now back to......:surfweb: ..........looking forward to more......popcorn::

[scottny]

that pic in front of the castle is a keeper.

[Coach81]

Hopefully there aren't two words inserted between buy and winter gear.....

.....alot of.............

Amen to that, Bro!!!

HI! I followed you over from another tr I was reading.

It sounds like you're going to have a great trip!

Welcome aboard! We certainly hope we have a great time!

Finally, caught up on your pre-trip......Love the joining DVC video.....We joined DVC in January of 2007 and been home twice...once in June and again at thanksgiving.....both of our stays were at SSR.....our first trip we stayed in Congress Park and over thanksgiving we were in the Grandstand....We just love SSR.....We would like to try OKW in the future looking forward to your report about OKW.......


I know about those long drives to the Mouse...it takes us from 12 to 14 hours to drive:eek: ........this past trip we left at midnight and we pulled into the resort right before 1 in the afternoon..........

Now back to......:surfweb: ..........looking forward to more......popcorn::
We're debating over doing a Disney cruise next year, or staying at SSR with another trip to Disney. A great thing about DVC is.. you get to plan on next year's vacation even before you start the current years! :goodvibes One of our goals is to visit each resort one time (this year OKW, and AKV).

Wow, midnight to 1 pm is a rough drive! Were you wiped out when you finally arrived? Did you guys crash until the next day after that?

that pic in front of the castle is a keeper.

Thanks Scottny, we love that one.. got it framed :) Hoping to get a few more like that in 22 days! Not hard to get the family to smile for a picture at Disney!

Next Update comin' right up!!!!

[Coach81]

So we're at MK... first character we see is..

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02853.jpg

Do all of your kids have to get all the autographs to? Mine certainly do!

Our first Character Breakfast:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02917.jpg

Here are a few pics from the breakfast

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02929.jpg
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02933.jpg
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02937.jpg
Do your kids love the characters like mine do???

So after the breakfast (which was great), we snap the pic in front of the castle, and then its ride time :woohoo:
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02948.jpg

Love this pic of Zach and I before we get on one:
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02970.jpg

Chase's favorite ride:
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC02981.jpg
We rode it at least 3 or 4 times last year!!! There was little to no line, and he just couldn't get enough of it..I still wake up some nights with that song :scared1:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC03006.jpg
Really like the update on this one.

Capt Jake is almost too real:
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC03002.jpg

Next up is a short video of a memory that I will keep with me all my days. I am a roller coaster freak. I love 'em :cloud9: so when I asked Zach if he was going to ride some (if he was tall enough) with me prior to the trip, he was very excited and said "Oh yeah Daddy!" So I take him to his first "big boy" coaster ride.. and well.. take a look:
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/th_BTMR.jpg (http://s148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/?action=view&current=BTMR.flv)

That is what Disney is all about!!!

One more pic to lead you into the next update:

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC03029.jpg

Next Update- Pics from AK, and more tentative plans for the first few days.

Getting closer, and closer... :woohoo: :yay: :cool1:

[scottny]

great pics. the video was also great. glad he liked it.

[TunaJr]

We're debating over doing a Disney cruise next year, or staying at SSR with another trip to Disney. A great thing about DVC is.. you get to plan on next year's vacation even before you start the current years! :goodvibes One of our goals is to visit each resort one time (this year OKW, and AKV).

Wow, midnight to 1 pm is a rough drive! Were you wiped out when you finally arrived? Did you guys crash until the next day after that?





We are also talking about doing a Disney Cruise sometime...the wife was online the other night doing research..:surfweb: and how we can pull a cruise after our June trip......when to go....all on points...points for one and cash for everyone else.....what type of stateroom......speaking of points I need more points....would love to do a 50 point add-on this year...but the rule is we must pay cash to add-on....

Man I hate that drive....too many cars not enough concrete.....:car: :car: :car: that's why we leave at midnight..less traffic..and the kids sleep.......I crashed after we checked in and the wife and kids went to pool....later that night we all went to the MK to catch the parade and Wishes....Long Day for the Driver...:eek:

Quick story....the wife said she would drive starting off or stay awake to keep me wake.....we pull out of the driveway just after midnight and we have not reached the interstate and she is sound to sleep along with the kids..:thumbsup2

[Coach81]

great pics. the video was also great. glad he liked it.

OH MAN, SIX DAYS :banana: I am sooo excited for you, Scott! You must be just :goodvibes everywhere you go!


We are also talking about doing a Disney Cruise sometime...the wife was online the other night doing research..:surfweb: and how we can pull a cruise after our June trip......when to go....all on points...points for one and cash for everyone else.....what type of stateroom......speaking of points I need more points....would love to do a 50 point add-on this year...but the rule is we must pay cash to add-on....

Man I hate that drive....too many cars not enough concrete.....:car: :car: :car: that's why we leave at midnight..less traffic..and the kids sleep.......I crashed after we checked in and the wife and kids went to pool....later that night we all went to the MK to catch the parade and Wishes....Long Day for the Driver...:eek:

Quick story....the wife said she would drive starting off or stay awake to keep me wake.....we pull out of the driveway just after midnight and we have not reached the interstate and she is sound to sleep along with the kids..:thumbsup2

The main thing holding us back from booking a Cruise right now is the fact that I have severe motion sickness and I am terrified that I will be :sick: the entire time we are on board. I've gotten two quotes on an '09 cruise so far (cash only), so my wife and I will just wait and see how things work out. We are also itching to add on, but we will wait until Hawaii to take the plunge. So far, we love our DVC.

As far as the drive, we are hoping we can get a good chunk of it done early in the morning (4:00am we're starting). It's supposed to take approx. 10 hours for us to get there from where we are in La. So plan is to get on the road at 4 am, and drive until about 9 (first 5 hours) to avoid traffic and get a good jump, then take 45 mins or so for breakfast, then push the rest of the way (hopefully arrive in Florida around 4 pm Florida time).

Funny stuff with your wife :rotfl: We have a plan to swap out, I'll take the first stretch, and she'll sleep, then she'll take the last. But who knows, I may just suck it up and drive the entire trip.

[Coach81]

:eek:

Brave teacher and DW are leaving sometime this morning to go "check out" the Disney Store...

MAY THE MOUSE HAVE MERCY ON MY BANK ACCT :scared:

Two Disney queens, alone on a trip to the Disney Store... oh yeah.. be afraid :scared1: , be very afraid :scared1:

Oh, and I get stuck with the kids :woohoo: Oh well, at least there is football :thumbsup2

Closing in on the 20 day mark.... :dance3:

[Native NYer]

Maybe they'll get some great things on sale!

[scottny]

OH MAN, SIX DAYS :banana: I am sooo excited for you, Scott! You must be just :goodvibes everywhere you go!
it is going very slowly.
:mad:

[jordanyosh]

it is going very slowly.
:mad:

Hopefully the trip will go the same way......

[jordanyosh]

Coach,

That video is great......:thumbsup2

You can tell the kids love WDW and Disney.

That pic of AK has me daydreaming....:cloud9:

[Brave teacher]

OK, the trip was not as bad as coach was expecting. My DH had told me to remember that I can go shopping in Disney in 20 days. I only spent $30. Alisa and I held ourselves back. I got 2 shirts each for both of my boys. Alisa got a shirt and a pair of socks for Zach and a stuffed Baloo and Eeyore for Chase. Not bad..... The men were afraid for no reason. Where's the trust?

BTW Coach, you know good and well that you will be driving the whole stretch. You will not give the wheel over to Alisa.

[Coach81]

Hopefully the trip will go the same way......
Great comment! Let's all hope that the trip's are long, and that great memories will be made!

Coach,

That video is great......:thumbsup2

You can tell the kids love WDW and Disney.

That pic of AK has me daydreaming....:cloud9:
Thanks, that was a very special moment for me. It was awesome to share my love of coasters with my 5 year old son. A truly magical experience. In just a few weeks, we'll be able to share the moment again with both my 5 and 10 year old... :goodvibes
My whole family is just happy the entire time we are there. My autistic child (Chase) will come and hold me (which is very rare any other time), and my 5 year old will tell me time and time again.. "Dad, I love you!" My wife and I just enjoy watching our children beam with happiness. Mission accomplished, Walt!!!!
OK, the trip was not as bad as coach was expecting. My DH had told me to remember that I can go shopping in Disney in 20 days. I only spent $30. Alisa and I held ourselves back. I got 2 shirts each for both of my boys. Alisa got a shirt and a pair of socks for Zach and a stuffed Baloo and Eeyore for Chase. Not bad..... The men were afraid for no reason. Where's the trust?

BTW Coach, you know good and well that you will be driving the whole stretch. You will not give the wheel over to Alisa.

Yes, I was very pleased that my wife didn't go overboard with the spending yesterday. She did a good job, but she told me that both of you were dissapointed with the store.
I'll drive as long as I can.. we'll see.

Really looking forward to the Friday right before we leave... the night before is always so exciting :yay:

[Brave teacher]

Looking forward to it also...

[Coach81]

Inside of 20 days now :banana:

Next update coming soon!

[Blueyed Girl]

Wow 18 days left!! Glad you liked the OKW pictures. I loved the pictures and video that you've posted. I watched the BTMRR video with my son. I hope that helps him to not be scared this time. I'm sure he won't ride BTMRR but I'm hoping for him to not be scared on the other rides too.:thumbsup2

[scottny]

18 days will go so fast.

[jordanyosh]

Just checking in....

[planetcaravan19f]

Loving all the pictures Coach!!! Did you say who takes the majority of the pics in your family, you or the misses? They look great!!!

[Coach81]

18 days will go so fast.
It sure has!!!! Single Digits Baby!!!!
Just checking in....
Hey Jordan, big update coming soon!
Loving all the pictures Coach!!! Did you say who takes the majority of the pics in your family, you or the misses? They look great!!!

Thank you so much! Daddy is the official "Photographer" of the family.

[Coach81]

Sorry its been so long.. let's see

My high school soccer teams are trying to get in the playoffs.

Football Playoffs were in full swing.

DW has been having my work on some "special projects" - pics coming soon!

Next Update coming later tonight!!!

At this time (10:30 am CST) 7 days from now.. we'll be in Florida enroute to DISNEY :banana: :cool1: :thumbsup2 :woohoo: :yay: :dance3: :cloud9:

[Coach81]

Sorry its been so long.. let's see

My high school soccer teams are trying to get in the playoffs.

NFL Football Playoffs were in full swing.

DW has been having my work on some "special projects" - pics coming soon!

Next Update coming later tonight!!!

At this time (10:30 am CST) 7 days from now.. we'll be in Florida enroute to DISNEY :banana: :cool1: :thumbsup2 :woohoo: :yay: :dance3: :cloud9:

[Blueyed Girl]

Sorry its been so long.. let's see

My high school soccer teams are trying to get in the playoffs.

NFL Football Playoffs were in full swing.

DW has been having my work on some "special projects" - pics coming soon!

Next Update coming later tonight!!!

At this time (10:30 am CST) 7 days from now.. we'll be in Florida enroute to DISNEY :banana: :cool1: :thumbsup2 :woohoo: :yay: :dance3: :cloud9:

Good luck in the soccer playoffs!! HOW EXCITING!:woohoo:

Can't wait to see pic's of the "special projects" popcorn::

Can you believe you will be in Disney World 7 days from now?? WOOO-HOOO-HOOTY!!!:banana: We are right behind ya!:yay:

[jordanyosh]

Sorry its been so long.. let's see

My high school soccer teams are trying to get in the playoffs.

NFL Football Playoffs were in full swing.

DW has been having my work on some "special projects" - pics coming soon!

Next Update coming later tonight!!!

At this time (10:30 am CST) 7 days from now.. we'll be in Florida enroute to DISNEY :banana: :cool1: :thumbsup2 :woohoo: :yay: :dance3: :cloud9:

Glad to have you back......

7 days from now. I'll be at Pop Century.

[Coach81]

Glad to have you back......

7 days from now. I'll be at Pop Century.

OUTSTANDING!!!! We'll be at All Star Music :cool1:

Next Update coming right up!

[Coach81]

Few more pics from last Feb's trip, then Day 1 & 2 Itenerary (sp)

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC03033.jpg
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC03031.jpg
This was brand new last February. I really enjoyed the ride.

Few more magical pics from last year:
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC03047.jpg

Zach LOVES the Power Rangers!!!
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC03077.jpg
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC03083.jpg
Notice the tongue :)

One of our favorite (traditional) places to eat while at Disney:
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC03207.jpg
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC03206.jpg

We close out the pics with two more classics
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC03240.jpg
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/DSC03377-1.jpg

Now the itenerary - hope I spelled that right :confused3

Getting in the vehicles at 3:30 am next Saturday morning, planning on hitting the road at 4 am sharp! We will drive until about 9am and then stop to stretch and catch a brunch. Then about 10:00am we will hit the road again, and try to drive straight through to Disney! If things go well, we'll be checking in at ASM around 4 - 5 pm Florida time, and then we'll turn in our AP vouchers for our APs!!!
We will catch a bite to eat sometime when we arive, then settle in to ASM. If we are not too tired from the drive, we hope to catch Illuminations that first night.

Day 1- Get up sorta early (8 - 9am or so) and arrive at our new home away from home---- our first trip "home" to our beautiful DVC resort OLD KEY WEST :banana: drop our bags off, and head back to Animal Kingdom!!!

Hang out at AK, have a blast, then meet Brave teacher (if they aren't with us already) and her family for a 1:00 ressie at Wispering Canyons.

That afternoon (with no rush) we will head to MK and basically hang out there the rest of the night. No, I don't care about the Superbowl... WHAT??? but aren't you a football coach??? yes, but I don't care to see the Patriots blast the Giants in the Superbowl. I would rather spend my time with my family in the most magical kingdom on earth :cloud9:

We plan on finishing our day at MK, with its extra late magic hours. When we have had our fill, we will head back to OKW and check out our wonderful 1 bedroom Villa :woohoo:

Next Update- Day 2 - 4 and pics of my DW's "special projects" for me.

[Blueyed Girl]

I couldn't agree more about the Superbowl this year. I will probably watch it off and on but not like most years. There are no parties scheduled and if we were in WDW during this we wouldn't be watching it at all either. :confused3

On a brighter note...I'm so excited for ya'll!! Your first trip to OKW. You're gonna LOVE IT!! I'm telling you I can't wait to get back there. I LOVE THAT PLACE!!:love:

[jordanyosh]

Torn about the Super Bowl....It's like tradition....

If I don't watch it, we'll be doing MK EMH.....

[Coach81]

I couldn't agree more about the Superbowl this year. I will probably watch it off and on but not like most years. There are no parties scheduled and if we were in WDW during this we wouldn't be watching it at all either. :confused3

On a brighter note...I'm so excited for ya'll!! Your first trip to OKW. You're gonna LOVE IT!! I'm telling you I can't wait to get back there. I LOVE THAT PLACE!!:love:
Hard to put into words how excited we are about our DVC, and our first trip "home". We have pretty much decided that next year we will visit our actual home resort Saratoga Springs for our annual February trip, and then we'll either stay at Boardwalk or Beach Club for our annual Summer trip. It is such a great feeling to be able to plan for your next year's vacation even before you leave for this years :yay:
Torn about the Super Bowl....It's like tradition....

If I don't watch it, we'll be doing MK EMH.....

I've already decided, its EMH for us!!! My prediction: Pats 48 - Giants 7. If I feel the need to watch it, I'll have it recorded here at home to watch when we get back.

6 more days until departure!!!

So when do you guys start to pack?

[Blueyed Girl]

So when do you guys start to pack?

START?? I'm almost FINISHED!!:lmao: Not really, but I'd say I'm about halfway through right now. :banana:

[Beana9802]

Now, I LOVE ME SOME FOOTBALL! But I'm with you...I'd rather be spending time with my family in the Happiest Place on Earth! (You'll get to see the commercials during the weeks after the SB anyway!) Have fun...

[jordanyosh]

START?? I'm almost FINISHED!!:lmao: Not really, but I'd say I'm about halfway through right now. :banana:

I have everything out, but not packed.....will probably do most of the packing tonight

[Coach81]

START?? I'm almost FINISHED!!:lmao: Not really, but I'd say I'm about halfway through right now. :banana:

DW has started putting a few things away here and there. But nothing serious yet. We'll probably get real serious in the next two days or so.

Now, I LOVE ME SOME FOOTBALL! But I'm with you...I'd rather be spending time with my family in the Happiest Place on Earth! (You'll get to see the commercials during the weeks after the SB anyway!) Have fun...

Exactly my thinking! I really believe the commercials will be better than the actual game. :mad: I'll get it taped, and enjoy em when we get back.

I have everything out, but not packed.....will probably do most of the packing tonight

So excited for you, get 'em warmed up for us!!! Have a safe trip.

[scottny]

u r very close. u all will have a magical time.

[Coach81]

So here is what my DW had me work on..

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/autographbooks003.jpg

Customized Autograph books for the boys! They were so excited. She printed up every major and most minor characters from Disney (thanks to plenty of the talented folks at Disney Designs forum) and made the custom cover. I added the binding and there we are!!!

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/autographbookscloseup.jpg

Chase loves his

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s28/Coach081/autographbooks005.jpg

Don't worry, Brave teacher, Sammy has his one as well!!!

We have one more surprise, but I'll show that one right before we leave to keep you all in suspense!

Itinerary Day 2 - 4

Day 2

Rezzie for Ohana's at Breakfast. (We loved this last year, the characters do a great job, and the food is great).

The rest of the morning we plan on Soarin' running the test track, and perhaps even fly to Mars!

The afternoon we are leaving open for whatever.

Day 3

Breakfast Buffet at Crystal Palace.

In the morning we will revisit MK, and have fun there at our leisure.
Again in the afternoon we are leaving open for whatever the kids want to do. Again, the great thing about DVC is that we can go about Disney much more laid back, 'cause we know we'll be right back ;)

Day 4

Hollywood Studios for rope drop. Go check out the new playhouse disney, mermaid and all the other great attactions there.

Lunch rezzie at playhouse Disney (I think its H & V) character lunch. Zach had so much fun there last year, he sang and danced the whole time!!!

Afternoon- Kids decide.

- Side note, tonight my boy's soccer team has made history, for only the second time in the history of the high school, we have won a district championship :yay: :cheer2:

Forgive me for tooting my horn a bit, but this is the second time this year that teams that I have coached have won a district championship :woohoo:

Only a few sleeps left!!! Final update will probably be either this coming Thursday or the night before we leave, Friday.

It has been a long wait, but it is finally almost here..

[Blueyed Girl]

Hey!!! CONGRATS on the championship wins!! You must be a really good coach.:thumbsup2 The autograph books are awesome. The kiddo's are going to have a great time! (Mom & Dad too I'm sure!) Only 5 days left for you!!!:banana:

[jordanyosh]

Toot away:thumbsup2

[buffy0214]

Hi Coach! I haven't read your whole PTR but you had me at that video:goodvibes How sweet! My friend recently said to me "your kids will think WDW is the only place to go on vacation". Your video really shows why. We are building family memories.

We usually rent DVC points at OKW. I love it there:love: I know you will enjoy your first trip home.

[Brave teacher]

Hey! Hey! It sounds like you have been updated by Alisa on our itinerary.;) Bryan told me that Samuel's autograph book is too cute.

I packed my clothes last night. Sammy's suitcase will be packed tonight and Cooper's on Thursday night. Bryan will be packing Friday night while check, double check, and check again that I have everything ready to go.

Samuel is beyond excited right now. Thise little Mickey Mouse heads on his mirror can't come down fast enough. Poor thing doesn't want to go to school for the rest of the week. His preschool class will be attending mass for the first time with the rest of the school on Friday morning. Plus, his school has a Mardi Gras parade after lunch. He is soooooo going to be on the red light for behavior on Friday because he is sooooo excited about this weekend.

BTW, I was praying for you to not have to play in Lafayette on Friday night. That drive would have sucked for you if things would have ended up that way. Bryan has already told me that I will probably be taking over the driving after we stop for breakfast so that he can go to sleep.

[Blueyed Girl]

HAVE A SAFE TRIP!!! :wave: :cool1: :banana: :woohoo: :dance3: :yay:

[scottny]

Have a great trip, cannot wait to hear all about it.

[Coach81]

HAVE A SAFE TRIP!!! :wave: :cool1: :banana: :woohoo: :dance3: :yay:

Have a great trip, cannot wait to hear all about it.

THank you both so much!!! Final Update is next....

[Coach81]

We leave in 4 hours :cool1: :banana: :goodvibes :woohoo: :yay:

Sorry for not getting a chance to show you my last "special project" they were custom made T-shirts for the trip, perhaps I can show them to you in my trip report!!!

I need to try and get some shuteye as we are looking at a 10 hour drive in 4 hours.

Thanks for hangin with me.. I hope I can sleep!!!!

See you all again when we get back!!

[Shane6294]

Just found your Pretrip and it looks like y'all are in for a great time. I am with ya on skipping Mardi Gras. I grew up in New Orleans and have been over it for years. I just moved to Houma and they have a pretty big parade schedule as well.
I hope y'all have fun and be sure to wear the purple and gold with pride while you are there.
Geaux Tigers

[earthfaries]

Hi:goodvibes
I just found your PTR and am subbing so I can read it and be ready for your TR when you return!!!

Hope you're having a great time:wizard:

[scottny]

did I miss the tr for this???? :confused3 :confused3

[Blueyed Girl]

did I miss the tr for this???? :confused3 :confused3

Unless he changed his name, I don't think so. I watched for it because I was wondering how the trip went. Hope they had a good time! :goodvibes

[jordanyosh]

I think I saw him at Epcot.......but too late to say hi..We were at Turtle Talk at the same time......