The Pursuit of Disney Magic (June 7-14, 2008) ~ UPDATED 9/30 pg. 191

[Charleston Princess]

I am a Disney Freak. This is common knowledge among my own children, my husband, my family, my friends, and my students. It defines who I am, and in many ways I can mark the 33 years of my life with Disney moments. But to truly understand the impact Disney has had on my life it is necessary to go back farther than my own years to those early years of my mother.

She was the first one of us obsessed by Disney -- a Disney of the mid-20th century -- a Disney of Haley Mills, the Wonderful World of Disney, and the very beginnings of Disneyland. She will still sing the praises of Disneyland (which she visited frequently in the 1960s while living in Ventura) versus Disney World -- the type of comments like, "When you remember Disneyland in the very beginning, it's hard to compare Disney World to it." Will I sound like that to my own children in later years? At any rate, it was inevitable that I would come to love Disney.

My first experience at the Magic Kingdom is one that I don't even remember. As family legend tells it, my parents were driving around Charleston one afternoon when I was 9 months old and my mother, bored with the usual errands, turned to my father and said, "If we left tonight, we would be in the Magic Kingdom by morning." The next morning, not even realizing the import of the moment and certainly not remembering it, I was held in my mother's arms for the first time on Main Street, USA. I like to think I was probably blinking in the morning sunlight and marveling at Cinderella's Castle. It would certainly explain that certain feeling I always get when I see the castle for the first time on any trip -- that feeling of utter contentment, peace, and a sense that I have arrived at the most magical place in the world. I suspect many feel that way though :upsidedow .

From there, my childhood could be marked with many trips to the World. The highlights would have to include the first trip to EPCOT in February, 1983; the first trip with my baby brother (twelve years younger) which included a stay at the Contemporary in 1987; the first trip to Disney-MGM Studios. I can remember when there were no lines to meet Mickey Mouse and his appearance would entail a mad rush of kids jockeying for position (how many pictures do we all have with Mickey, ourselves, and a bunch of strange kids?), when Splash Mountain was brand-new, when Downtown Disney was just a group of shops.

At the same time as the many trips to Disney, I was marking off the years of my life with Disney's movies. "The Black Hole" somehow sticks in my mind along with watching "The Cat from Outer Space." I watched a re-release of "Sleeping Beauty" with my dad, cried buckets for the first time ever during "The Fox and the Hound," and learned (heaven only knows why) all the songs from "Oliver and Company."

And the teenage years...years of angst and rebellion...identifying with Ariel's yearn for freedom, Belle's need to escape her "poor, provincial town" in books, and Jasmine's desire to see "a whole new world." While others were sneaking off to Panama Beach for spring break our senior year of high school, I convinced my best friend to sneak off to Disney World. Yes, I was a rebellious teenager who went to Disney World without my parents' knowledge. I was eventually busted because, pack rat that I am, my mother found my ticket stub :blush: . I guess there could have been worse things I could have done.

Striking off on my own, I met my husband where for one of our very first vacations together, I dragged him to...where else? Disney World, of course, because he had never been. Let's face it...I had to know if he could, at the very least, tolerate my Disney obsession -- not eating tomatoes or having a different political stance was nothing in comparision to the importance of knowing if he would be a willing participant in the pursuit of Disney magic. In answer to that question...we have been married for 12 and a half years with five trips :wizard: .

DH proved remarkably tough to brainwash effectively, so we had two children. DD's first movie in a theater was "Tarzan" and she knew all the words to Pixar's early films as a preschooler. DD went to WDW when she was nine months old (an odd coincidence that I just noticed), two weeks before the opening of Animal Kingdom. DS would not make his first journey until the famous, or infamous (depending on current mood), Christmas trip of 2004 with the in-laws. A lovely trip, for the most part, but done at commando speed, cramming as many memories as possible into five days. There were days when I cried as I put my sneakers on in the morning because I didn't think I could walk another step. I never would have made it in boot camp, that much I know.

Which brings us to last year: one trip in June and one weekend trip in October because we had never done Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party. DD is effectively brainwashed into all things Disney, would live on split-pea soup if it meant more frequent trips, and well on her way to carrying on the "pursuit of magic" tradition. DS? Well, he loves Disney, but I am afraid it would rank below Harry Potter, Pokemon, and the Superhero of the Day.

Let's see what magic we can uncover as we anticipate the June 2008 trip to Walt Disney World!

Depression and Booking (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=23018318#post23018318)
Who is this Crazy Group? (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=23114690#post23114690)
The Last Resort? (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=23238654#post23238654)
Eatin' Time! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=23289226#post23289226)
Yes, It Was Necessary! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=23335531#post23335531)
Those Golden Arches and Disney! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=23335924#post23335924)
Disney Mail! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23399043&postcount=30)
Look! Look at What I Did! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23438422&postcount=35)
AGGHHH!!! It's Happening Again! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23480709&postcount=59)
RESORT CHANGE 367 and PAYING IT OFF! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23504211&postcount=69)
100th Day Surprises or Disney Magic versus OCD Nature!
(http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23528758&postcount=75)Automatic Car Wash: An E-Ticket Attraction?
(http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23560125&postcount=90)Minnie, You Came! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23600167&postcount=108)
Me and My Minnie Crocs! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23622125&postcount=126)
She's Crafty! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23695170&postcount=165)
The Official Itinerary! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23723021&postcount=190)
How Today was NOT a Disney Day! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23824513&postcount=226)
Meet the Trip Binders! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23879550&postcount=248)
Do You Ever Find Yourself Thinking...? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23903599&postcount=263)
Doin' Easter Disney Style (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=23975681&postcount=279)
75 Days and Various Disney-esque Tidbits (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24018155&postcount=306)
Holy Pirates and Princesses, Batman! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24067719&postcount=323)
DeSoto's Favorite Place? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24096141&postcount=338)
Movin' Right Along! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24114503&postcount=360)
On the Road Again! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24249471&postcount=396)
And Now? And Now? And Now? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24249979&postcount=397)
Copa, Copa Cabana! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24251556&postcount=402)
The End of Day One (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24257223&postcount=419)
Le Cellier Did What??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24261785&postcount=431)
Mind-Boggling, I Tell You! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24266404&postcount=444)
Tonga! Tonga! Tonga! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24270121&postcount=454)
Good Afternoon, Dr. Jones! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24289909&postcount=472)
Are You a Pirate, a Princess, or a Pirate Princess? Part One (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24340582&postcount=512)
Are You a Pirate, a Princess, or a Pirate Princess? Part Two (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24435449&postcount=580)
Surfing the Typhoon! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24451362&postcount=593)
Until Next Time... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24481095&postcount=638)
A Tale of Woe and Disney Mail! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24507303&postcount=675)
Le Cellier Becomes... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24551234&postcount=693)
I'm a Real Diser Now! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24585319&postcount=711)
Big Apple Disney Goodies! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24654189&postcount=770)
The Beginning of My Pin Collection! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24741091&postcount=794)
The Latest Itinerary! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24757222&postcount=825)
The Trip Binder! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24757709&postcount=826)
A Little Disney Therapy! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24838604&postcount=886)
Now We Can Head to the Pool! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24877286&postcount=918)
Whew! Too Much to Do and Too Little Time! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25028533&postcount=1009)
Double Whew! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25175509&postcount=1074)
I Got to Plan Yesterday! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25197760&postcount=1098)
We're in the Teens! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25228715&postcount=1117)
We Meet Again, Dr. Jones! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25295934&postcount=1161)
Disney Conversations! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25351593&postcount=1207)
According to the Calendar... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25381390&postcount=1234)
Crazy Thoughts on the 8-Day Mark! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25425499&postcount=1290)
6 Day Mark! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25455572&postcount=1357)
5 Day Mark! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25479979&postcount=1393)
The 4 Day Mark, But Really the 3 Day Mark! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25495281&postcount=1408)
2 Days and a Drink Wish List! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25525960&postcount=1454)
This is IT! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25546310&postcount=1502)
A Little Tease! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25696722&postcount=1563)

THE TRIP REPORT:
Day One: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Set Forth and Eat Too Much! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25707813&postcount=1584)
Day Two, Part One: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Join the Dark Side and One Falls Behind! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25740353&postcount=1629)
Day Two, Part Two: In Which One of Our Intrepid Adventurers Receives a Little Bit of Magic! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25781052&postcount=1684)
Day Three, Part One: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Head to the Future and Get Detained! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25809978&postcount=1715)
Day Three, Part Two: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Fend Off Birds and Pillage Norway! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25849549&postcount=1744)
Day Three, Part Three: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Meet a Mouse (or 2)! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25892983&postcount=1773)
Day Four, Part One: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Have an Early Morning Breakfast in Harambe! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25935603&postcount=1798)
Day Four, Part Two: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Head Out on Safari! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25956525&postcount=1821)
Day Four, Part Three: In Which One of Our Intrepid Adventurers Heads from Africa to Asia and Back Again! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26007531&postcount=1848)
Day Four, Part Four: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Reveal Their Inner Animals! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26032232&postcount=1869)
Day Four, Part Five: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Encounter a Monsoon and an Avalanche! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26070562&postcount=1899)
Day Five, Part One: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Have a Relaxing Day! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26098495&postcount=1926)
Day Five, Part Two: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Meet Some Tikis! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26150407&postcount=1967)
Day Five, Part Three: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Finally Gain Sight of the Castle! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26195822&postcount=2003)
Day Six, Part One: In Which One of Our Intrepid Adventurers Pitches a Full Scale Fit! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26241660&postcount=2052)
Day Six, Part Two: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Are Reunited! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26288709&postcount=2107)
Day Six, Part Three: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Rock On! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26327195&postcount=2164)
Day Seven: Part One: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Explore Their Resort! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26362762&postcount=2206)
Day Seven, Part Two: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Embark on Their World Tour! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26414021&postcount=2256)
Day Seven, Part Three: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Get Lost in Morocco! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26460349&postcount=2292)
Day Seven, Part Four: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Resume Their World Tour! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26516744&postcount=2336)
Day Seven, Part Five: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Laugh a Lot and Make a Shocking Discovery! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26594497&postcount=2400)
LOOKING AHEAD! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26674071&postcount=2476)
Day Eight: In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Return to the Real World! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26753022&postcount=2563)
In Which Our Intrepid Adventurers Display Their Loot! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26878661&postcount=2601)
Some Misc. Thoughts! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27292166&postcount=2727)
Scrapbook Fun! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27422661&postcount=2796)
Look at What's New! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27901059&postcount=2858)

[Charleston Princess]

So, soon after returning home last June from a fabulous, just-the-four-of-us trip, I went into a Disney Depression. You know the kind -- where your normal life seems colorless after WDW, where you find yourself wandering the aisles of the grocery store wishing you could find gingerbread men in Mickey ears like the ones you bought at Goofy's Candy Co., where the evening seems empty without fireworks and a parade. It was time to start planning next summer's trip.

I eagerly awaited the release of the 2008 packages and amused myself in the meantime with plugging in "pretend" dates to get quotes on various hotels and packages. I also discovered the DIS where I spent many days and months lurking and reading posts. In the slightly altered words of Darkwing Duck, "I am the shadow that lurks at the edge of the thread!" :) June turned to July and July faded into August. As the rumored release date for 2008 packages drew near, I grew more and more anxious especially with the first whisperings of a change in the Disney Dining Plan. What's this? A Deluxe Dining Plan? Three meals a day and two snacks? What fun! My husband was all over the DxDDP since eating three meals a day is the most important component of a vacation for him. I was all over it because the potential for obsessive planning of meals and snacks rose tenfold.

August 5, 2007: D-Day (Disney Day)! The minute I read they were booking 2008 packages I was on the phone. Honest truth: My CM's name was Flora and she was the BEST CM. 6 nights, 7 days in June with tickets and the deluxe dining plan. Yes, please! True to form, I got teary-eyed when she read back my reservation and wished me a magical day -- there's nothing quite like booking a Walt Disney World vacation.

Now, I could buy the official trip-planning binder and start filling it! :ccat:

[Charleston Princess]

Before I go on with my pre-trip report, let me give you a little background on our crazy little group:

DH (38): He is completely into computers and soccer. When he is not playing the latest online game, he is coaching soccer. He has coached both of our children's teams and is embarking on his third season coaching the middle school's girls' team at the school where I work. He tolerates my Disney obsession and gamely allows me to drag us to Disney World every chance I get. He is also the voice of reason when I begin obsessing over things like ADRs and where to stay. When I get out of hand, he makes a command decision, and everything in my little Disney sphere returns to normal...until the next "crisis" arrives :) .

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/CharlesandChelseaonCarrousel.jpg

DD (10): She is my partner in crime when it comes to Disney. As a fifth grader, she is all girly girl with an attitude to match -- I think she is as sassy as Tink, but she does not find the comparision amusing ;) . DH claims she is just like me. Well, maybe...She loves soccer, animals of all kinds (she wants to be a vet when she grows up), and American Girl dolls. She is right there with me as I scrapbook and plan. When no one else will talk Disney with me, she and I can curl up on her bed and chatter about it.

DS (8): If DD is just like me, then DS is just like my husband...video games, soccer, Star Wars, superheroes, Legos, Pokemon, pirates, and Harry Potter. A second grader who has not quite learned to be tactful, but with dimples that allow him to get away with just about anything. When I told him about an email I received about the new Pirates of the Caribbean online game, he was very excited but then asked me, "Do you think everyone got the email or just Disney geeks like you?" Then, he smiled really big and hugged me. He enjoys Disney when there but doesn't obsess the way DD and I do.

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/ChelseaandConnoronMonorail.jpg

And then there is me: 33, with as I previously explained, an unbridled love of all things Disney. I grew up in Charleston, South Carolina, but now I live in northwest Georgia right outside of Atlanta. I met DH when he was in the Navy in Charleston, and we eventually moved to the Atlanta area where he was from. I am a middle school language arts/literature teacher and I teach sixth, seventh, and eighth grade. All of my students have figured out that I am in love with Disney World and when it comes to talking about vacations they all know that is where I spend mine. In my spare time when I am not obsessing over trip-planning or on the DIS boards, I am scrapbooking, reading, or going to the movies.

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/ChelseaConnorJackieatPop.jpg

And that is pretty much our crazy little bunch -- along with two dogs, Belle and Tabasco, and two cats, Bagheera and Topaz. I am sure that you can figure out where a couple of those names originated :rolleyes: .

[BrittBritt]

I was reading through your PTR, and when I discovered we had the same job, I just had to subscribe. Middle schoolers can make anyone need a vacation! :rotfl: This trip sounds like it will be great!

[Charleston Princess]

I am so excited about going -- I have decided that there is no such thing as too much Disney World :).

What grades/subject do you teach? Middle schoolers are unique, aren't they? They crack me up one minute and make me want to bang my head against the wall the next. I can't imagine doing anything else though. We have a five-day winter break coming up this week so I know they will be completely out of control the next three days. :scared1:

[BrittBritt]

6th grade Lang. Arts
Ahhh, they are unique. One minute they're crying over so and so not LOOKING at them in the hallway, and the next minute they're excited to be coloring in class! Whatever...(see, I am even starting to type like them). I couldn't possibly know what they're going through anyway. ;)

Good luck with the kiddies this week. Can't wait to hear more about your upcoming trip.

Oh, and as a fellow English teacher, I am sure that you just have to tell everyone around you on Splash Mountain about Joel Chandler Harris and the true ideas and meanings behind the Uncle Remus stories. My DH begs, "Does everything have to be educational?" ::yes::

[Charleston Princess]

6th grade Lang. Arts
Ahhh, they are unique. One minute they're crying over so and so not LOOKING at them in the hallway, and the next minute they're excited to be coloring in class! Whatever...(see, I am even starting to type like them). I couldn't possibly know what they're going through anyway. ;)

Good luck with the kiddies this week. Can't wait to hear more about your upcoming trip.

Oh, and as a fellow English teacher, I am sure that you just have to tell everyone around you on Splash Mountain about Joel Chandler Harris and the true ideas and meanings behind the Uncle Remus stories. My DH begs, "Does everything have to be educational?" ::yes::

YES! I do a whole unit on Joel Chandler Harris and the Uncle Remus stories when we do folktales. I do a pretty good reading of some of them too (I knew my southern accent would come in handy at some point :rolleyes: ).

Hoping to add to the PTR this weekend :) .

[Charleston Princess]

So, I decided that today I would write about what appears to be the never-ending resort saga! When I first booked the trip in August, I booked 6-nights/7-days at the Animal Kingdom Lodge with a pool view and bunk beds. Added to that, were the Deluxe Disney Dining Plan and Park Hopper Tickets. Then life intervened:

1. We decided to make a quick weekend trip in October to go to Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and celebrate our anniversary. Halloween is my favorite holiday and the Magic Kingdom is my favorite place so it seemed like a match made in Heaven. We stayed at the Pop Century and loved every minute of our three days there. Price tag: $800.

2. After October trip, decided to economize (Disney-fashion) and dropped the park hoppers -- with seven days there, it made sense to just do one park a day and then we would still have three days to go back to our favorites. Savings: $200

3. November is chockfull of birthdays in our family (four to be exact) which also meant car tags, etc. and then, of course, there was Christmas. Not thinking about the price tag on all of that. Still booked with AKL and DxDDP.

4. Our 10-year old dog needed leg surgery right after Christmas. He has been around as long as DD so we had to do it. Price-tag for Bionic Leg Surgery: $900.

5. This was the point I really started second-guessing the vacation plans. I decided that we really didn't need to stay at AKL and switched to POFQ. We had stayed there last June and loved it. Savings: $840 (almost enough to cover Bionic Leg Surgery for Dog).

6. And now comes the impulse buy of the century. Dodge came out with their new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravans. I blame what happened next on the glossy brochure my mother showed me. The family looked like they were having the time of their lives eating ice cream in their new mini-van and the pics of the center console showed it filled with guidebooks and Starbuck cups. I started having visions of driving to WDW in our new Grand Caravan -- couldn't stop having them. The next day (I told you it was an impulse buy) we went and traded in our trusty 2002 Honda CRV, and drove off the lot with the perfect vacation vehicle! :scared1: Price-tag: Five years of payments.

7. Then, came the next resort switch: POFQ to Pop. My reasoning was that it would save us money and the kids enjoyed it more than POFQ. Their food court was better, and we would be able to enjoy their chili cheese fries and tie-dyed cheesecake. Savings: $400.

8. And then...I made what is hopefully the last resort switch. I couldn't get AKL out of my head and the more I thought about it, the more I wanted to stay there. So, after much debate and lots of opinions from DISers (thank you, thank you, thank you!), I realized for $400 more I could drop to the regular dining plan and we could stay at AKL. Who needs six character meals in one trip anyway!? The kids are excited -- DS just wanted to make sure he could still buy the monorail playset; DD can't wait to watch the animals! Price-tag: $400 more than the current vacation package booked.

So, that is the saga of the Last Resort! Hopefully, AKL is our last resort and I don't find myself calling WDW Travel Company once again. If I hurry up and pay off the trip, it won't be an option anymore.

And did we come out ahead? Who knows? But we are booked at AKL! :banana:

[BrittBritt]

I'm glad you stuck with your original idea of AKL. We stayed there in Oct. '05 and loved it! We're staying at POFQ this Oct. This is a new resort for us, but according to all I've read, people seem to love it.
You are too funny buying that van! :lmao: It would be funny to take a pic of your family trying to reenact the ice cream scene :mickeybar from the brochure, but you all would probably not want to get sticky drips all over the new seats!
Isn't planning fun?

[KittieKat]

We'll be there at the same time! Im so excited! I too came to a love of disney through my mom. And now, that me and my twin sister are 20 and out of the house, her and my dad are going ALONE!! Does that seem unfair? haha. So me and my sister are going solo in june.

[Charleston Princess]

I'm glad you stuck with your original idea of AKL. We stayed there in Oct. '05 and loved it! We're staying at POFQ this Oct. This is a new resort for us, but according to all I've read, people seem to love it.
You are too funny buying that van! :lmao: It would be funny to take a pic of your family trying to reenact the ice cream scene :mickeybar from the brochure, but you all would probably not want to get sticky drips all over the new seats!
Isn't planning fun?

I'm glad that we are sticking with AKL also -- I think it will be really neat! Any tips or suggestions for our stay?

We adored POFQ -- you will have a blast -- and make sure that you try the beignets! Yum!

We should totally reenact the ice cream scene -- it would be great for the scrapbook -- DS can't eat without making a mess though so I don't know how that would work :eek: !

Planning is a blast! :)

[Charleston Princess]

We'll be there at the same time! Im so excited! I too came to a love of disney through my mom. And now, that me and my twin sister are 20 and out of the house, her and my dad are going ALONE!! Does that seem unfair? haha. So me and my sister are going solo in june.

I remember the first time that my parents went without me after I moved out. I was all, "What do you mean, you are going to Disney World??? Without me??? :eek: "

You are going to have a blast with your sister! Where are you staying while you are down there?

We are almost at the 100 day mark :woohoo: !

[Charleston Princess]

While I sit here consuming more leftover Valentine's Day candy than could possibly be good for one person, I thought it would be fitting to write about our ADRs. We are a family that definitely puts a high priority on our food, so planning meals for WDW is a big deal at our house. Surprisingly, it was a lot less stressful than choosing our resort.

Prior to our 180-day mark, I forced my husband to sit down, look at menus, and prioritize our top places. This is where he inadvertantly let it slip to the children that we were going to Disney. I had planned on some big surprise, but here is how it really went down:

DH to DD: Hey, this summer you get to order off the adult menu when we are at Disney World since you're 10 now.

DD: What??? We're going to Disney??? Mom, are we going to Disney???

Me (Alternately glaring at DH and trying to come up with a way to wiggle out of the situation): Yep.

So much for the big surprise :confused3 .

Anyway, DH had two requests: Teppan Edo and Boma. He nixed the idea of Liberty Tree Tavern (no turkey dinner in the middle of June) and 50's Prime Time Cafe (no stranger is going to fuss at him about eating veggies). I also had to abandon the idea of Restaurant Marrakesh because DD and DH said they didn't like the looks of the menu :sad1: . But, other than that, we were able to agree for the most part on where to eat. Luckily, my carnivorous dinosaurs (I mean my children) are happy as long as there is some sort of meat on the menu.

Without further ado here are the plans:

Table Service Ressies:
Monday: Chef Mickey's for Dinner (none of us have ever eaten there so we need to fix that gap in our Disney memories and they have a sundae bar).

Tuesday: Donald's Safari Breakfast at Tusker House and Yak and Yeti for dinner (even if the menu looks the same as our local Hong Kong Buffet, I am a sucker for exotic decor and yetis -- this may be where I have to buy my t-shirt :)).

Wednesday: Le Cellier (love the look and love the menu -- so do all the other family members -- steak, steak, steak!).

Thursday: Boma overload day -- both breakfast and dinner (hope DH is happy since he was adament that we had to try both meals at Boma -- I am excited that there is the possibility of two pots of Kenyan coffee on that day!)

Friday: Teppan Edo (again DH's request and DS is hoping to somehow convince me to buy him a samurai sword while we are in Japan -- not happening!)

Counter Service Ideas:
MK: Pecos Bill's (a family tradition -- gotta love those chili fries and the fixins' bar) or Columbia Harbor House (have never eaten there and would like to try it).

DHS: Backlot Express (an old stand-by -- I have very fond memories of eating there as a child after the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular).

Epcot: Cantina de San Angel (another old stand-by) or would like to try Sunshine Seasons (I hear their key lime pie is really good).

AK: I have no idea -- maybe back to Mara on those days?

And because I am an obsessive planning freak, I also have made a list of snacks I want to make sure I get while there ;) .

Snacks:
MK: Dole Whips, Figaro Fries (never tried but they sure look tasty!), and Funnel Cakes from Sleepy Hollow. Maybe Root Beer Floats, too :thumbsup2
Goofy's Candy Company: The make-your-own treats look out-of-this-world! It's a must do!

If we don't gain a ton of weight, it will be a minor miracle! But I don't think I will really care because it will be Disney Weight :thumbsup2 ! Besides, with all the walking and the June heat, we need to keep our energy up!

[winkers]

Your children are adorable!:cutie:

I think there is a speacial spot in heaven reserved for middle school teachers! I couldn't do it! I have 2 of my own and it's impossible to figure out which "person" I'm dealing with at any given moment!

[Charleston Princess]

Your children are adorable!:cutie:

I think there is a speacial spot in heaven reserved for middle school teachers! I couldn't do it! I have 2 of my own and it's impossible to figure out which "person" I'm dealing with at any given moment!

Thank you! I wish my children would stay the age that they are forever! Don't think that will happen though.

I am definitely hoping teaching middle school will earn me a spot up there! :) I love it (most days), but I will tell you that my daughter is starting sixth grade next year and I am scared to death! You would think I would be okay with it since I deal with middle schoolers all day, but it's just the opposite -- I KNOW what happens to them! You are definitely right about never knowing who you are going to be dealing with at any given moment -- my saving grace is I get to send them out the door after 75 minutes -- that helps immensely! :)

[MadiMouse]

Hello my fellow Georgian! I am loving your pre TR so far. I cannot wait until June!!

[Charleston Princess]

Hello my fellow Georgian! I am loving your pre TR so far. I cannot wait until June!!

Thank you!

You are in the ATL -- right down 75 from me! :thumbsup2

You are going to be at AKL at the same time as we are -- what nights are you staying?

Almost single digits for us! :woohoo:

[MadiMouse]

Thank you!

You are in the ATL -- right down 75 from me! :thumbsup2

You are going to be at AKL at the same time as we are -- what nights are you staying?

Almost single digits for us! :woohoo:

Hello!! Yes, ma'am right off 75!! I will be going with Glendamax for an all girls trip. We will be there June 6-10. It is a split stay btwn POFQ and AKL! :banana:

[Charleston Princess]

Hello!! Yes, ma'am right off 75!! I will be going with Glendamax for an all girls trip. We will be there June 6-10. It is a split stay btwn POFQ and AKL! :banana:

How fun! I can't wait to read your TR on that one ;) ! We loved staying at POFQ last June -- beignets -- yum!!!

We will be there June 8-14. I am ready for warm weather and Disney -- that's for sure!

[BrittBritt]

My DH said the same thing about 50s PT. I told him it could be worse though...I could make him go to WCC and mention his affinity for ketchup! ;)

We also chose Yak & Yeti. It's one of our choices I'm unsure of, but I've been reading some good reviews about it. You have to try everything once.

[Charleston Princess]

My DH said the same thing about 50s PT. I told him it could be worse though...I could make him go to WCC and mention his affinity for ketchup! ;)

We also chose Yak & Yeti. It's one of our choices I'm unsure of, but I've been reading some good reviews about it. You have to try everything once.

He he he! I should take DH to WCC and not tell him about it! He would just die! I feel another October trip coming on...

I think we will enjoy Yak and Yeti -- I love Chinese food -- there is nothing like General Tsao's Chicken, Shrimp Fried Rice, and an egg roll -- so I think we will be just fine at Yak and Yeti -- and it's a TS at AK (finally)! I am excited about that!

[Charleston Princess]

Today I needed a little Disney Therapy so I just treated myself to an order of new guide books. I know that I can find almost all the information I could ever need right here on the DIS, but I am a little funny (alright, a lot funny (and not the "ha ha" variety) when it comes to books. I am a tactile person, and there is just no substitute for sitting and holding a book and turning the pages of a book and smelling a book (yep, I said that -- try it -- every book has a distinct smell depending on the type of paper) :) . I NEEDED new Disney books to hold and call my own.

Last year I bought Birnbaum's Walt Disney World 2007, Birnbaum's Walt Disney World for Kids, by Kids 2007 (for the kids, of course), Birnbaum's Walt Disney World Dining Guide 2007, The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World (Love it -- even tabbed the pages that I refer to frequently), and Hidden Mickeys. Let's just say all the pages on all the books are a little dog-eared. I wanted new ones this year, but none of the updated editions were really so updated that I needed to replace them. So, I looked for others.

Here's what I just ordered from amazon.com -- all three of them highly recommended by other DISers!

Passporter's Walt Disney World 2008 -- a guide book and OCD planning outlet all in one. What sold me on this one were the descriptions of the pockets to hold stuff. I have visions of tucking my very own Passporter in my bag at Disney.

The Complete Guide to Walt Disney World 2008 -- a guide book with lots of photos and fun facts -- the fun facts got me. So did the page samples on amazon that showed aforementioned fun facts.

Walt Disney World Guide to the Magic for Kids -- for the kids :thumbsup2 . More cool photos and stickers. And journaling pages (even though I already made travel journals for the kids and myself). The attraction stickers you can stick on the pages after you ride sold it to me. Again, so did the cool sample pages. This might be mine. And maybe I will let the kids share it with me.

Now, I just want the order to get here. I am not the most patient person in the world.

[Charleston Princess]

I am going to do a shameless bit of advertising for a second. In my defense it is Disney-related!

Background: My first job was a drive-through cashier at McDonald's -- I know -- so unglamorous for a princess. What can I say? It was my Cinderella phase, and I was told, at 16, that if I wanted a car, I had to pay for insurance. Anyway, I came home everyday that summer smelling like french fries. Yick! I still love McDonald's food though. Can't help it. And honestly, I don't think that story really has any bearing whatsoever on the news I want to impart! Except that the news made me think back on those days of saying, "Welcome to McDonald's! Would you like to try an Extra-Value Meal today?"

Okay, here's the news: the next Happy Meals at Mickey D's are going to be Year of a Million Dreams Happy Meals :banana: :banana: :banana: ! How cool is that? I read it on two other posts on the DIS tonight! One said the date was going to be March 14th, but I am keeping a close eye on that! I can't wait. Not only will the kids be getting Happy Meals, I am pretty sure I will be ordering one too!

But we will NOT be eating them in the new mini-van. No greasy fry fingerprints on the upholstery, please!

[MadiMouse]

I think I may order the Passporter now!! See what you did???????? :)

[Charleston Princess]

I think I may order the Passporter now!! See what you did???????? :)

:rotfl:

Amazon emailed me this morning and said it had shipped -- I am hoping it arrives this weekend -- then I can spend my weekend reading and planning. That would be wonderful!

[winkers]

I love the way books smell too! I had about an hour to kill last night between picking up and dropping off kids, so I went and spent time at the bookstore. I could spend hours there.

[BrittBritt]

But we will NOT be eating them in the new mini-van. No greasy fry fingerprints on the upholstery, please!

:rotfl2:

[John's Mom]

Just found your PTR. Your children are adorable. I'm sure that they will love the AKL. Don't forget to check out all the activities the Lodge has for kids.

[Charleston Princess]

I love the way books smell too! I had about an hour to kill last night between picking up and dropping off kids, so I went and spent time at the bookstore. I could spend hours there.

I could spend hours in bookstores! The downfall of where we live (small town) is there is no bookstore -- the nearest one is 25 minutes away. :scared1: I keep hoping for one soon (we got a Starbucks about six months ago so there is hope).

:rotfl2:

You think I am joking :) . Our last car was a mess by the time we traded it in -- including a petrified french fry I found under the seat! Another :scared1: ! I am determined this will not happen in the new car -- at least until the novelty wears off!

Just found your PTR. Your children are adorable. I'm sure that they will love the AKL. Don't forget to check out all the activities the Lodge has for kids.

Thank you! They definitely keep us on our toes. DD (10) came home this week informing us that she had a boyfriend! Yet another :scared1: ! Of course, then she told us that she nevers talks to him (oh the joys of fifth grade relationships :)).

I know they will love AKL. On our must-do list so far are the folktales by the firepit, the nighttime animal viewing, and the cookie decorating. Are there any other must-dos that I can add to the list?

[Charleston Princess]

As you all know, I was really hoping that my new guidebooks would arrive today. In hopeful anticipation of their arrival, I started my morning with the usual morning chores -- drinking coffee, catching up on the DIS, feeding animals and family. Then, since the mail still hadn't arrived, I tried to do as much as possible to free up the rest of the day (just in case) -- paying bills, starting laundry, unloading the dishwasher, taking out the trash. Just as I was taking out the trash, the mailman came (purely coincidental, I promise) bearing mail and a package! Hooray! I practically danced into the house.

DS: What did we get in the mail?

Me: Something for me! La, la, la, la!

DD: Must be Disney Mail because you are all excited! (I guess I do this everytime I get something connected with the trip -- which is not nearly often enough).

I did manage to squirrel away the Guide to the Magic for Kids before my kids saw it -- I want to give it to them on Friday, our 100 day mark. But it looks great! I am hoping to look at it some more tonight after Chelsea and Connor go to bed.

The other two are simply fabulous! They smell nice too :). The Complete Guide to Walt Disney World really is full of information and lots of cool pics. They really delve into the stories that accompany all the parks and attractions -- I never knew the full story behind Harambe or Expedition Everest, but I do now! DH has also heard quite a bit read out loud to him :).

The Passporter is also great. I have tabbed all the sections already (with the stickers they give you) and sticky noted the sections I know I will want to reference frequently like all the worksheets and the pages on AKL. It really fits nicely into my OCD planning. :thumbsup2

The downside to my wonderful day of reading and obsessive compulsive indulgence is that all the weekend chores are still waiting for me. Tomorrow is looming with cleaning the house (the kitchen looks like it belongs in some Wild West movie with dust bunnies blowing across the floor -- that music is playing too) and grocery shopping. I need some house-cleaning/errand-running pixie dust right about now!

[BrittBritt]

The other two are simply fabulous! They smell nice too :). The Complete Guide to Walt Disney World really is full of information and lots of cool pics. They really delve into the stories that accompany all the parks and attractions -- I never knew the full story behind Harambe or Expedition Everest, but I do now! DH has also heard quite a bit read out loud to him :).

The Passporter is also great. I have tabbed all the sections already (with the stickers they give you) and sticky noted the sections I know I will want to reference frequently like all the worksheets and the pages on AKL. It really fits nicely into my OCD planning. :thumbsup2

The downside to my wonderful day of reading and obsessive compulsive indulgence is that all the weekend chores are still waiting for me. Tomorrow is looming with cleaning the house (the kitchen looks like it belongs in some Wild West movie with dust bunnies blowing across the floor -- that music is playing too) and grocery shopping. I need some house-cleaning/errand-running pixie dust right about now!

Mmmmmm....new book smell. Hey, you're really spoiling yourself this week---new book smell AND new car smell!
You've now convinced me to buy the Complete Guide. I had assumed it was just a book with some maps. Now that I know it includes back story, I must get it. (It's very important that I always know more than my DH. We are extremely competitive.)
Love how your kids seem amused by your excitement for the Disney trip.

[DWGal210]

Great pre-trip so far! And your kids are just darling!

You've inspired me to do a pre-trip report myself; we're also going to be there from June 8-15 (4 days at WDW and then a 3-day cruise). I have been doing my usual OCD planning, and the pre-trip would just be icing on the cake - no one understands the joys of planning like the DIS folks!
princess:

[emmiesmom]

I saw your link on another pre-trip and followed it over and couldn't stop reading! I can absolutely relate to the new book smell and bought myself the '08 Unoffical Guide for this summer's trip! There's something about putting your hands on a book and flipping through it!!
Your family is beautiful, I can't wait to read more!

[Charleston Princess]

Great pre-trip so far! And your kids are just darling!

You've inspired me to do a pre-trip report myself; we're also going to be there from June 8-15 (4 days at WDW and then a 3-day cruise). I have been doing my usual OCD planning, and the pre-trip would just be icing on the cake - no one understands the joys of planning like the DIS folks!
princess:

:welcome: ! I am so thrilled I inspired someone else -- I am headed over to your PTR next -- I can't wait to read it! The Disney cruise is definitely on my to-do list -- I am thinking the year I turn 35, it would make an awfully nice birthday gift ::yes:: !

Mmmmmm....new book smell. Hey, you're really spoiling yourself this week---new book smell AND new car smell!
You've now convinced me to buy the Complete Guide. I had assumed it was just a book with some maps. Now that I know it includes back story, I must get it. (It's very important that I always know more than my DH. We are extremely competitive.)
Love how your kids seem amused by your excitement for the Disney trip.

Technically, I bought the new car last month, so I only spoiled myself once this week -- unless we count the new vacation clothes I "accidentally" bought while running errands today (just three shirts and a pair of shorts)! ;)

You will love the Complete Guide -- I haven't been able to put it down because it is so full of neat information that I never knew. I especially like the "fun finds" sections on each page -- those little things to look for that I have obviously always blown past with my "tunnel" vision. You'll blow DH out of the water with all the knowledge you will have :thumbsup2 !

I saw your link on another pre-trip and followed it over and couldn't stop reading! I can absolutely relate to the new book smell and bought myself the '08 Unoffical Guide for this summer's trip! There's something about putting your hands on a book and flipping through it!!
Your family is beautiful, I can't wait to read more!

:welcome: and thank you! I am glad you are enjoying all my rambling! I, for one, have thoroughly enjoyed flipping through my new books today! They will be as dog-eared as the rest of them in no time!

[Charleston Princess]

Okay, so I just had to share what I managed to do today with you guys -- because you will truly understand my excitement and pride.

Last night I saw on another thread someone's kid picture itinerary and thought it was one of the cutest things I had ever seen. So, after looking at it and studying it, I figured I could copy it on my own. I did, and I am just so proud of myself. It's no where near as good as the original one, but I am really happy with it.

I have to say that I have learned more about computers while on the DIS boards than ever before. Amazing, what a person can learn when it is Disney-fied ::yes:: !

I also have to admit that I have not quite managed to figure out how to post pictures and have them retain their quality. I didn't know if I could just copy the file so I scanned it and uploaded it. The picture just doesn't do it justice -- the colors and pictures are much sharper and brighter on the real thing :sad1: . But it gives you an idea of it!

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/DisneyPictureItinerary-1.jpg

[winkers]

I love your itenerary! It's so cute!

[Charleston Princess]

Thank you! I really can't take too much credit for it since I lifted the idea from a thread over on the Theme Parks board -- but I am just in love with it.

I am such a big dork that I keep pulling it out to look at it. :)

[winkers]

I do the same thing when I impress myself with my craftiness! If only my dh would do the stroking for me, I wouldn't have to congratulate myself!

[Charleston Princess]

I do the same thing when I impress myself with my craftiness! If only my dh would do the stroking for me, I wouldn't have to congratulate myself!

Exactly! DH came home today, and I was just bursting to show him! He tried to show interest and excitement, but I could tell he was just not quite on the same level as I was. As long as he continues to let me be Royal Ruling Queen of the Disney Trip, I guess I won't complain too much :) .

[winkers]

I tried to convince my dh that we need a new van for the trip.

He said the 2 hour drive to the airport didn't justify spending 20k. I just don't get it!:)

[Charleston Princess]

I tried to convince my dh that we need a new van for the trip.

He said the 2 hour drive to the airport didn't justify spending 20k. I just don't get it!:)

:rotfl:

I don't know...that built-in DVD player would be a lifesaver for those two hours!

Show him the glossy brochure for the Grand Caravan -- that family is just so happy, happy, happy to be sitting cooped up in a van together with nine cupholders and stain resistant upholstery that I don't think anyone could resist the subliminal advertising! ;)

[winkers]

:rotfl:

I don't know...that built-in DVD player would be a lifesaver for those two hours!

Show him the glossy brochure for the Grand Caravan -- that family is just so happy, happy, happy to be sitting cooped up in a van together with nine cupholders and stain resistant upholstery that I don't think anyone could resist the subliminal advertising! ;)

I can't even pull out of my drive way without a mile squirmish being battled out in my van. You should see us on our yearly 12 hour drive to my family's!

[BrittBritt]

Ok---I had to tell you, I bought the Complete Guide on Sun., so it should be coming in the mail this week. I have some ideas for things I'm going to use it for, but I'll save those for my PTR. Hey, I've got to fill over four months up with something! Your review of it definitely sealed the deal.
Fantastic idea for your child. Who cares if you stole it? That's why these boards are here, right? My DH doesn't understand my Disney excitement either. He's all, "You know we've been there before, right?" :confused3
And I'm all, "Yeah, but it wasn't as fun then because I didn't know about the Dis, or LGMH, or Crocs, or pin trading, or...." You get the point!

[Charleston Princess]

I can't even pull out of my drive way without a mile squirmish being battled out in my van. You should see us on our yearly 12 hour drive to my family's!

It probably resembles my family's journeys. The captain's chairs in the center section have been a godsend, but Chelsea still manages to find something to grouse about such as, "Connor, your bookbag does not need to be between the seats!" I just want to yell, "Who cares???" She's such an old woman already, she will be unbearable in her dotage!

[Charleston Princess]

Ok---I had to tell you, I bought the Complete Guide on Sun., so it should be coming in the mail this week. I have some ideas for things I'm going to use it for, but I'll save those for my PTR. Hey, I've got to fill over four months up with something! Your review of it definitely sealed the deal.
Fantastic idea for your child. Who cares if you stole it? That's why these boards are here, right? My DH doesn't understand my Disney excitement either. He's all, "You know we've been there before, right?" :confused3
And I'm all, "Yeah, but it wasn't as fun then because I didn't know about the Dis, or LGMH, or Crocs, or pin trading, or...." You get the point!

I love that you bought the Complete Guide. I can't wait to find out what plans you have for it! I know what you mean about four months to fill -- I think that is why I am saving the grand unveiling of the itinerary (aside from what anyone can learn about it from squinting at the one I posted) -- it's like my one thing I know I will have if I run out of ideas! Although Saturday night did see me lining up various things I have made (like travel journals) and taking pictures of them :rolleyes: -- I felt I had lost a grip on something at that particular moment.

I think DH has given up on understanding my obsessive trip planning. Occasionally he will make a comment like, "Is this conversation going to be about Disney?" As if he needs to ask!

[DWGal210]

I completely know what you all mean about the new guide books and new "new book smell".

I don't know if any of you are in the Frigid Tundra known as the Northern United States; since I am, I'm looking at pictures of Sunny Florida and Fabulous WDW to get myself out of the winter doldrums. I honestly think it has snowed here at least once a week since late November. Ick. How fast can I pack up and move South...warm weather...ahh....
:)

[Charleston Princess]

I completely know what you all mean about the new guide books and new "new book smell".

I don't know if any of you are in the Frigid Tundra known as the Northern United States; since I am, I'm looking at pictures of Sunny Florida and Fabulous WDW to get myself out of the winter doldrums. I honestly think it has snowed here at least once a week since late November. Ick. How fast can I pack up and move South...warm weather...ahh....
:)

I feel like I am in the Frigid Tundra although the maps say it is Northwest Georgia. I hate cold weather of any sort and am definitely ready for some warmer weather. Just when I think it is going to get warmer we have another cold spell. Today it went from the 50's when I woke up to about 38 while I froze to death at two soccer games (and the wind was gusting up to 40 mph) -- I still can't feel my toes. Not to mention that I whine a lot when I am cold. I am so ready for summer and Disney World that I can't stand it!

[MadiMouse]

Just so that you know, I ordered my passporter last night!!! :)

YEAHHHHHHHHHHH! You are definately rubbing off! Hehehe

[Charleston Princess]

Just so that you know, I ordered my passporter last night!!! :)

YEAHHHHHHHHHHH! You are definately rubbing off! Hehehe

You'll love it! I have had so much fun playing with my copy!

How bad were the storms in your area of Atlanta this morning?

[MadiMouse]

You'll love it! I have had so much fun playing with my copy!

How bad were the storms in your area of Atlanta this morning?

Hey!!!

The storms were :eek: !! It felt like we were experiencing an earthquake!!! But it did pass fairly quickly! Thank God no damage!!! How did you fair through it?

[Charleston Princess]

Hey!!!

The storms were :eek: !! It felt like we were experiencing an earthquake!!! But it did pass fairly quickly! Thank God no damage!!! How did you fair through it?

Good -- I am glad to hear it! I saw all sorts of mind-boggling pics on ajc . com -- trees ripped up and stuff! It roared through first thing this morning and woke us all up, but that was about it. I am hating this cold front though! It's almost March -- shouldn't it be warming up by now???

[BrittBritt]

Good -- I am glad to hear it! I saw all sorts of mind-boggling pics on ajc . com -- trees ripped up and stuff! It roared through first thing this morning and woke us all up, but that was about it. I am hating this cold front though! It's almost March -- shouldn't it be warming up by now???

Be careful what you wish for...it was 90 today in So. Fl!!! Can you even imagine how unbearable it will be in Disney in July?
My BIL just moved his family up to Canton, GA, and you'd think he was in the Arctic. He is SHOCKED by the difference in temps between here and there.

[Charleston Princess]

Be careful what you wish for...it was 90 today in So. Fl!!! Can you even imagine how unbearable it will be in Disney in July?
My BIL just moved his family up to Canton, GA, and you'd think he was in the Arctic. He is SHOCKED by the difference in temps between here and there.

Oh, I hadn't thought of that! Hmmm...surely it will cool back down by June :).

In your BIL's defense (Canton is only about twenty miles directly east from where I am), it has been a cold winter -- lots of days in the 30's and lots of nights in the 20's and not even any snow to make it worthwhile. It's been a long time since I moved here from the coast, and I still haven't gotten used to it. I am such a baby when it dips below 60, though, that I am probably not a good indicator of cold weather. :) I'd rather be hot than freezing any day!

[jordanyosh]

I'm here. I don't know why.......I don't need to be reading another PTR...but I'm here for the long haul....

[Charleston Princess]

I'm here. I don't know why.......I don't need to be reading another PTR...but I'm here for the long haul....

:welcome: I am so glad you are here! I can't promise any chickens though :lmao: ! Or Brazilians in thongs :eek: !

[winkers]

Ask and ye shall recieve....................even if you didn't ask!
http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii78/toris94/Chicken.gif

[Charleston Princess]

Ask and ye shall recieve....................even if you didn't ask!
http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii78/toris94/Chicken.gif

:lmao: I have my very own chicken!!! I am so excited!!! Now, he needs a name! Hmmm...must give it some thought...

[Charleston Princess]

Ask and ye shall recieve....................even if you didn't ask!
http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii78/toris94/Chicken.gif

I shall call him...Chickin' Gizzard!

[Charleston Princess]

http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii78/toris94/Chicken.gifChickin' Gizzard and I are sitting here thinking about the trip that is only 102 days away (woo woo!), and I feel it happening again. It starts as a tiny thought, not much more than a flicker. I try to ignore it, and it just gets worse until I can't control it anymore. I know the Incredible Hulk's pain as I morph into RESORT CHANGING MONSTER!!!

I thought I was all set with the whole AKL/Dining Plan thing, but I found myself thinking about Pop/Deluxe Dining Plan again -- if we did Pop, we could eat at 50's Prime Time (I am sure DH would come around if I whined enough), Kona Cafe for breakfast (that Tonga Toast looks soooo good), and all of our meals would be paid for -- so would our refillable mugs, all snacks, and appetizers. I would also be saving $400 dollars (which would help finance my ever-growing list of things like Minnie Jane crocs and other trip goodies).

Then, there is the other dilemma -- the POFQ/Dining Plan thing -- which would really be the smartest move because we would save $700 from the AKL scenerio and $300 from the Pop scenerio.

I CAN'T DECIDE! Part of me wants to go with POFQ because I could call and pay off the trip right now. Part of me wants to go with Pop and get on the phone and make more dining reservations. And part of me worries that if I do either one, I could have a mutiny in the house.

But, seriously, how much time are we really going to spend in our room? Not much!

I think I have lost all grip on reality at this point! I can't take three more months of this! Well, actually only until April 24 -- our 45-day mark.

[winkers]

:rotfl2: I go through the same dilema's all the time! It's a sickness and I don't think there's a cure!

[BrittBritt]

http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii78/toris94/Chicken.gifChickin' Gizzard and I are sitting here thinking about the trip that is only 102 days away (woo woo!), and I feel it happening again. It starts as a tiny thought, not much more than a flicker. I try to ignore it, and it just gets worse until I can't control it anymore. I know the Incredible Hulk's pain as I morph into RESORT CHANGING MONSTER!!!

I thought I was all set with the whole AKL/Dining Plan thing, but I found myself thinking about Pop/Deluxe Dining Plan again -- if we did Pop, we could eat at 50's Prime Time (I am sure DH would come around if I whined enough), Kona Cafe for breakfast (that Tonga Toast looks soooo good), and all of our meals would be paid for -- so would our refillable mugs, all snacks, and appetizers. I would also be saving $400 dollars (which would help finance my ever-growing list of things like Minnie Jane crocs and other trip goodies).

Then, there is the other dilemma -- the POFQ/Dining Plan thing -- which would really be the smartest move because we would save $700 from the AKL scenerio and $300 from the Pop scenerio.

I CAN'T DECIDE! Part of me wants to go with POFQ because I could call and pay off the trip right now. Part of me wants to go with Pop and get on the phone and make more dining reservations. And part of me worries that if I do either one, I could have a mutiny in the house.

But, seriously, how much time are we really going to spend in our room? Not much!

I think I have lost all grip on reality at this point! I can't take three more months of this! Well, actually only until April 24 -- our 45-day mark.

Oh Lord!!! You've got yourself a Disney dilemma! (I've been spending all of my time lately obsessing over my own Disney dilemmas and ZERO time thinking about my real world dilemmas. Mmmmm....early Disney magic!)

I think you said it best yourself: How much time are we really going to spend in our room?

I would bet not a whole lot.


AKL is beautiful (although, as you know, I took no pictures to prove said beauty or to even confirm for posterity that I was there).

BUT, you can visit it for free, walk around, look at the animals, EAT there, all w/o actually having to stay.

I don't know if those extra restaurants you've been eying would be quite as open to having you and your family show up to just walk around, check out the place, and not actually EAT there!

AND POFQ has the wonderful boat to DD which is almost like a free attraction in and of itself.

BUT POP would allow you the ultimate Disney Gorge Fest.

AND you only usually read wonderful things about POP.

BUT AKL is soooo beautiful...

Clearly I'm no help. Part of me wants you to make a change so we can have more Dis-cussions about aforementioned change, but that's kind of sick, huh? Have you gotten any input from family?

I vote to leave it all up to Chicken Gizzard!

[Charleston Princess]

:rotfl2: I go through the same dilema's all the time! It's a sickness and I don't think there's a cure!

That's for sure! I am having a raging bad case of it too -- I feel like some sort of addict sitting here and thinking about it and thinking, at the same time, "If I hold out for another hour and 25 minutes, WDW Travel will be closed for the night and I won't be able to do anything!"

Oh Lord!!! You've got yourself a Disney dilemma! (I've been spending all of my time lately obsessing over my own Disney dilemmas and ZERO time thinking about my real world dilemmas. Mmmmm....early Disney magic!)

I think you said it best yourself: How much time are we really going to spend in our room?

I would bet not a whole lot.


AKL is beautiful (although, as you know, I took no pictures to prove said beauty or to even confirm for posterity that I was there).

BUT, you can visit it for free, walk around, look at the animals, EAT there, all w/o actually having to stay.

I don't know if those extra restaurants you've been eying would be quite as open to having you and your family show up to just walk around, check out the place, and not actually EAT there!

AND POFQ has the wonderful boat to DD which is almost like a free attraction in and of itself.

BUT POP would allow you the ultimate Disney Gorge Fest.

AND you only usually read wonderful things about POP.

BUT AKL is soooo beautiful...

Clearly I'm no help. Part of me wants you to make a change so we can have more Dis-cussions about aforementioned change, but that's kind of sick, huh? Have you gotten any input from family?

I vote to leave it all up to Chicken Gizzard!

Chickin' Gizzard just twitches -- he's being no help! :laughing:

I don't dare ask the family, because I'm becoming such a cliche about switching resorts. My dad even joked about it on Friday, "So, change your resort again?"

All of the things you brought up echo my own thoughts -- Pop = eating everything we want for a week and we liked it there; POFQ = two themed pools (we would also be able to use POR's pool), boat, etc.; AKL = eating there regardless so we would be able to shop, stroll, enjoy for the evening. I am so torn! The other thing is if I was smart and went with POFQ, DH and I would definitely be able to afford the long weekend getaway in October for anniversary, Food and Wine Festival, and MNSSHP. Hmmm...that may be the clincher!

You aren't any sicker than me -- I was just thinking how if I switch, I would have to redo itinerary, maps, resort activities section of the trip notebook and that sounded fun!

[jordanyosh]

Here's my take on the DDP since we just used it in Feb....

It's ALOT of food.

We weren't able to use all the snack credits because we were usually too full from lunch to get a snack......

We also felt a bit tied to our TS ADRs....if you didn't use them one day, you had to make it up later in the trip OR just lose out completely.

The Deluxe just seems like waaaay too much food...AND instead of worrying about what attractions you're going to ride, you end up running from ADR to ADR......

We are seriously considering not doing the DDP next time even though we thought it was a great value...It was just one more thing to think about every day....

Just my opinion.

[Charleston Princess]

Here's my take on the DDP since we just used it in Feb....

It's ALOT of food.

We weren't able to use all the snack credits because we were usually too full from lunch to get a snack......

We also felt a bit tied to our TS ADRs....if you didn't use them one day, you had to make it up later in the trip OR just lose out completely.

The Deluxe just seems like waaaay too much food...AND instead of worrying about what attractions you're going to ride, you end up running from ADR to ADR......

We are seriously considering not doing the DDP next time even though we thought it was a great value...It was just one more thing to think about every day....

Just my opinion.

We did the dining plan last summer and liked it for the simple reason that I didn't have to budget for food -- I am horrible about not wanting to spend money on food when on vacation (there are souvenirs to buy ;) ).

I do agree that it is a lot of food! I don't know why I think I want the Deluxe -- I don't really. I don't want to spend my entire vacation eating instead of doing attractions (like you said).

I think I have decided to go with the POFQ/Dining Plan option because then it would free up money to go back in October (my favorite month, my favorite holiday -- MNSSHP, and F&W which we have never tried). And two trips a year is a good thing! :thumbsup2 And I REALLY need to go to the Adventurer's Club which is out of the question on this trip because we will have the kids.

Of course, I didn't decide any of this until after ten. But tomorrow I will be calling Disney -- and getting my weekly, "Have a magical day!"

Thanks for helping me see reason!

[jordanyosh]

I'm with the rest of your family...we'll see how long your resort choice sticks.....;)

But I do think you're reasoning for picking POFQ/DDP is good and you get another trip out of it.....:thumbsup2

Let us know what happens.

[dreamer17555]

Why not switch to POFQ with dining and with the money saved sign the kids up Neverland Club so you can make sure to hit Advertures Club. We are doing Pop with DxDDP and it looks to work out well for us. I for one hate CS. Standing in line, trying to find a table- no fun at all. We are doing a breakfast and a 2ts dinner (SoA, CG, CRT, HDDR) I also don't like waiting for the characters my daughter insists on seeing so we booked a bunch of those. It really does boil down to what will make you happiest.

Yeah I am no help either.

-Becca-

[BrittBritt]

So, end the suspense, what did you do? Changes? I wasn't aware of a possible Oct. trip (or was I?). When in Oct. were you thinking?

Just got my Complete WDW 2008 book today, and I love it! You were right in your recommendation.

Side note: You must have been freezing this morning! :cold:

[Charleston Princess]

I'm with the rest of your family...we'll see how long your resort choice sticks.....;)

But I do think you're reasoning for picking POFQ/DDP is good and you get another trip out of it.....:thumbsup2

Let us know what happens.

I can't possibly change again -- at least this week ;). The full story is on its way...

Why not switch to POFQ with dining and with the money saved sign the kids up Neverland Club so you can make sure to hit Advertures Club. We are doing Pop with DxDDP and it looks to work out well for us. I for one hate CS. Standing in line, trying to find a table- no fun at all. We are doing a breakfast and a 2ts dinner (SoA, CG, CRT, HDDR) I also don't like waiting for the characters my daughter insists on seeing so we booked a bunch of those. It really does boil down to what will make you happiest.

Yeah I am no help either.

-Becca-

Sure you are! I love hearing everyone's thoughts!

So, end the suspense, what did you do? Changes? I wasn't aware of a possible Oct. trip (or was I?). When in Oct. were you thinking?

Just got my Complete WDW 2008 book today, and I love it! You were right in your recommendation.

Side note: You must have been freezing this morning! :cold:

Yes, I have been freezing all day!

I am so glad that you like it -- sometimes if I read too much of it at one sitting, I feel like my head is going to explode because there is so much I didn't know before!

I have been playing around with the idea of an October trip -- I am thinking October 10-13 (our fall break) -- we had so much fun last year that I want to go again at that time.

I ordered my chocolate Minnie Jane crocs with the cotton candy strap last night! I have joined the Croc-wearing, Disney-going ranks! Well, I will have as soon as I get them!

Full story on its way, but you can see from my siggie what I did :).

[Charleston Princess]

Well, it's not really resort change number 367, but it sure feels that way. After much thought, I decided to go about approaching the subject with all family members in a way that they would feel like they had a say in it (AS IF :))!

DS was the easy sell. I told him we would be able to use two themed pools (both POFQ and POR) and showed him pics of Ol' Man Island at POR (he remembers the serpent slide at POFQ from last year). I also showed him the pics of the boat to DTD. He was all for it. One on my side.

Next I went to DD. I knew she would be a bit harder of a sell because she really likes AKL, so I explained that we would still be going to Boma (for breakfast and lunch). We could still shop, eat, and look around the resort. She was fine with that. Two on my side.

I knew DH would be the hardest to convince. I waited until we were having our morning coffee.

Me: I want to talk to you about something and I want you to hear me out before you say anything.

DH (voice filled with dread): What?

Me: Well, I was thinking of changing to POFQ...

DH: No!

Me: Just hear me out. We would be able to pay off the trip right now, and then we could go to Disney in October -- just the two of us.

DH: What would we do in October??? (Aside: it has been almost four years since we went on vacation without the kids -- so it was a legitimate question).

Me: We could celebrate our anniversary, go to the Food and Wine Festival, and MNSSHP.

DH: Okay, but you know Disney probably won't let you change since you have already changed so many times! (Aside: Of course they will :)).

I was going to wait until WDW received our tax return payment that I sent on Sunday so that when I called I could pay off the remaining balance. I wanted to do the official happy dance. Well, today was the day that my reservation showed they had received it! So, I called, changed our resort, and PAID OFF OUR VACATION! Woo! Woo! I am so excited. party:

Next: 100th Day Surprises!

[winkers]

WooHooty for paying off your vacation!!:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

[dreamer17555]

Woohoo!:woohoo: Congrats on paying it off and I think you and DH will have a great time going back in Oct. I am already planning on trying to sell the idea of an adult only trip to DH the second we get back.

-Becca-

[Charleston Princess]

WooHooty for paying off your vacation!!:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

Thank you! It's the best feeling in the world! I love it! :banana:

Woohoo!:woohoo: Congrats on paying it off and I think you and DH will have a great time going back in Oct. I am already planning on trying to sell the idea of an adult only trip to DH the second we get back.

-Becca-

Thank you! Planning the next trip as soon as you get back is the only way to deal with the Disney Blues! I am going to try very hard to not do any planning for October until we get back -- then, I will have something to do. Well, I will have to make ADRs and buy MNSSHP tickets beforehand though :).

[BrittBritt]

:goodvibes :goodvibes :goodvibes :goodvibes :goodvibes
I think you made the best choice. Now you get to look forward to planning two trips (and writing more trip reports)! It must feel so nice to have it all paid off. (We're getting there...:rolleyes: ).
The best part of all this (for me) is that you'll be able to report all about POFQ before my Oct. trip there!

Can't wait for the surprises!

[Charleston Princess]

:goodvibes :goodvibes :goodvibes :goodvibes :goodvibes
I think you made the best choice. Now you get to look forward to planning two trips (and writing more trip reports)! It must feel so nice to have it all paid off. (We're getting there...:rolleyes: ).
The best part of all this (for me) is that you'll be able to report all about POFQ before my Oct. trip there!

Can't wait for the surprises!

Yes, I really wanted another trip to plan after this one :).

POFQ is fabulous -- that is where we stayed last June, and we loved every minute of it. We didn't do the boat to DTD or go over to Riverside (we did stay there in 2004 though), so we have that to look forward to.

Another title for the next installment could be: Creating Disney Magic versus OCD Nature! ;)

[Charleston Princess]

Yesterday marked our "100 Days Until Disney!" I had been planning for awhile how I wanted to mark the event. Since I was "robbed" of the chance of surprising the kids with the Disney trip, I wanted to make sure that I made up for it in other little ways. Here's what I came up with:

Thursday night, after the kids went to bed, I was going to leave out the cards I had made (I'll try scanning and posting them), the Guide to the Magic for Kids book, and the "grow your own" pirate and enchanted castle I found at Hobby Lobby (you know those things you put in water and they grow to "600 times the original size!").

Here are the fronts and insides of the cards:

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/100DayCardsFront.jpghttp://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/100DayCardsInside.jpg
That was the plan...

Thursday night was book club (yes, I am that big of a nerd that I go to a book club -- there are seven of us and we have been friends for eons). I had not read the book and when I tried explaining why (DIS boards and all), my friends shook their heads and gave each other "looks." No one understands my Disney obsession :(. Anyway, it was 10:30 by the time I got home. Then, I had to catch up on all my DIS board stuff (first priority and all :)). Before I knew it, it was almost 12:00! I had to go to bed...but I had to set up everything on the kitchen table first.

12:00: I am delirious as I set out the kids' surprises. As I am finishing up, I think, "Hey, I could totally sprinkle everything with silver glitter -- pixie dustin' time!" So, I go and get the silver glitter and have a grand ole' time sprinkling -- maybe too grand of a time :).

12:15 (maybe 12:30): I collapse into bed and as I am drifting off to sleep, I jerk back awake and realize, "I JUST SPRINKLED SILVER GLITTER ALL OVER MY KITCHEN TABLE! :eek: :eek: :eek: I am going to have to clean all that up! What was I thinking?" My OCD had been roused. I just know there is going to be silver glitter all over my house for the next six months!

The kids liked everything, but the big hits were the Grow-Your-Own Pirate and Enchanted Castle. First thing they did was fill a bowl of water to put them in. They love those things -- kids are the goofiest! Well, mine are! :)

We spent yesterday saying to each other, "Guess what today is?" And then yelling, "100 Days 'Til Disney!" party:

[winkers]

So, have you cleaned up all the glitter?:rotfl:
What a fun suprise for your kids!

[Charleston Princess]

So, have you cleaned up all the glitter?:rotfl:
What a fun suprise for your kids!

I did manage to get the majority swept up, but it's EVERYWHERE! So far, I have found it on the kitchen floor, in the living room, on the computer desk, in my work bag...

Probably didn't help that Chelsea sprinkled some in her hair yesterday morning :).

I went back and posted pics of the cards!

[winkers]

Cute cards! Did you make them?

[Charleston Princess]

Cute cards! Did you make them?

Thanks! I did make them -- just a couple of blank cards, some Disney paper, stickers, and a glue stick :)!

I love to scrapbook, but, strangely enough, in the past year the only things I have managed to scrapbook are the June trip to WDW, the October trip to WDW, and various Disney-themed items :rolleyes: . One day, my kids will look back and go, "Did we have a life outside of WDW?"

[BrittBritt]

You were scolded by your book club!!!:rotfl2:
That struck me as so funny for some reason. First off, most people aren't in book clubs. Secondly, you imagine book clubs to be places of respite full of kind souls. I can just picture your book club friends giving each other "looks" while you're trying to explain about the Dis. You were like one of the children who didn't do their homework! :goodvibes
BTW---What book were you supposed to be reading? Maybe we can order you some Cliff's Notes as you'll probably still be consumed with Dis'ing for your next meeting.

What a wonderful mom you are. :angel: To go through the effort of making this trip so special for your children is so wonderful. (Just keep that in mind as you continue to find glitter over the next year!)

[Charleston Princess]

You were scolded by your book club!!!:rotfl2:
That struck me as so funny for some reason. First off, most people aren't in book clubs. Secondly, you imagine book clubs to be places of respite full of kind souls. I can just picture your book club friends giving each other "looks" while you're trying to explain about the Dis. You were like one of the children who didn't do their homework! :goodvibes
BTW---What book were you supposed to be reading? Maybe we can order you some Cliff's Notes as you'll probably still be consumed with Dis'ing for your next meeting.

What a wonderful mom you are. :angel: To go through the effort of making this trip so special for your children is so wonderful. (Just keep that in mind as you continue to find glitter over the next year!)

Sad, isn't it :rolleyes: ? No calm respite of kind souls in ours though -- we are a bunch of opinionated, loud women (thank goodness we were friends before we were a book club). I guess it was my turn to be made fun of -- last time we let loose because one of us was going to cupcake decorating class -- no one is safe :).

I was supposed to be reading The Memory Keeper's Daughter, but it was just depressing. I would read a few pages and then think, "This is the pits. Where's my Complete Guide?" I didn't want to read it to begin with, but got outvoted. So, I didn't really make an effort -- I could never tell my students that though -- I would never hear the end of it.

This month's selection is No Country for Old Men -- at least there is a movie if I find that it too is no match for pre-trippies and the Passporter :).

I'll keep telling myself that I am a good mom as I find glitter -- today I found some sprinkled on my desk (different room entirely -- it is obviously migrating).

[winkers]

My daughter came home from a sleepover this afternoon with glitter all over her hair. I thought of you!:)

I wish I was in a book club! I love to read, but no one I know has the time.

[jordanyosh]

Great cards for the kids....

So nice to be paid off....nice feeling huh.....

Wow it looks like the POR choice is sticking...............

[DWGal210]

Sad, isn't it :rolleyes: ? No calm respite of kind souls in ours though -- we are a bunch of opinionated, loud women (thank goodness we were friends before we were a book club). I guess it was my turn to be made fun of -- last time we let loose because one of us was going to cupcake decorating class -- no one is safe :).

I was supposed to be reading The Memory Keeper's Daughter, but it was just depressing. I would read a few pages and then think, "This is the pits. Where's my Complete Guide?" I didn't want to read it to begin with, but got outvoted. So, I didn't really make an effort -- I could never tell my students that though -- I would never hear the end of it.

This month's selection is No Country for Old Men -- at least there is a movie if I find that it too is no match for pre-trippies and the Passporter :).

I'll keep telling myself that I am a good mom as I find glitter -- today I found some sprinkled on my desk (different room entirely -- it is obviously migrating).

First of all, great cards! What a fabulous idea. I'm meeting my brother and SIL today to give them their pre-planning book I made (pics on my pre-trippie) and some other fun items; yours was a great idea so I will have to use that in the future!

And if you had a hard time reading the Memory Keeper's Daughter for its depressing nature, then perhaps you should skip No Country for Old Men and read something lighter instead, like a trashy romance novel :goodvibes Or perhaps you can convince the book club ladies to read one of the many biographies of Walt :thumbsup2

[Charleston Princess]

My daughter came home from a sleepover this afternoon with glitter all over her hair. I thought of you!:)

I wish I was in a book club! I love to read, but no one I know has the time.

:rotfl2: Love that your daughter came home with glitter in her hair -- I really do like glitter, just not when I find it in the most uncanny places!

I love reading, too -- just not depressing things that make me want to gnaw my arm off so that I have an excuse to not turn the pages! :)

Great cards for the kids....

So nice to be paid off....nice feeling huh.....

Wow it looks like the POR choice is sticking...............

It is a nice feeling to be paid off -- we are on Day 3 of keeping POFQ -- knock on wood.

I think I have managed to stick with POFQ because I have the October trip to think about in the back of my mind. I won't tell you how yesterday DH and I spent a good bit of time talking about where we wanted to stay in October...that's for another pre-trippie. ;)

[Charleston Princess]

First of all, great cards! What a fabulous idea. I'm meeting my brother and SIL today to give them their pre-planning book I made (pics on my pre-trippie) and some other fun items; yours was a great idea so I will have to use that in the future!

And if you had a hard time reading the Memory Keeper's Daughter for its depressing nature, then perhaps you should skip No Country for Old Men and read something lighter instead, like a trashy romance novel :goodvibes Or perhaps you can convince the book club ladies to read one of the many biographies of Walt :thumbsup2

I did see your pre-planning books -- love them!

Ugghh...so No Country for Old Men is depressing too? Blagg! I am going to try very hard to read it this time since book club is at my house, and we try to theme the food around the book. I tried to sell them on the idea of Walt Disney: An American Original, but there were no takers. Now, that one would have been fun to theme!

[emmiesmom]

Picture itinerary!!! Oooh I need to go work on that-thanks now I can borrow the idea from you!! perfect for my non-reader age child!

What a great way to celebrate 100 days to go to WDW!!

[John's Mom]

A little off topic:

When my kids were growing up, there were two things that were really hard to get rid of:

Christmas Glitter and Easter Grass!:lmao:

[Charleston Princess]

Picture itinerary!!! Oooh I need to go work on that-thanks now I can borrow the idea from you!! perfect for my non-reader age child!

What a great way to celebrate 100 days to go to WDW!!

I loved how the picture itinerary turned out -- we are all readers at our house, but it is so visual and colorful, that we all like it. It would be perfect for your DD -- she could look at it and see exactly what was in store for the day.

A little off topic:

When my kids were growing up, there were two things that were really hard to get rid of:

Christmas Glitter and Easter Grass!:lmao:

:rotfl: That's so true and with Easter right around the corner, I will have both to contend with!

[Charleston Princess]

It felt like spring (finally!) here in Georgia today! I think it actually may have reached the 70 degree mark :banana: ! With the warm weather, we decided to forget the Sunday chores and enjoy it! Chances are it will be cold again in a couple of days -- judging by the way the weather has been anyway.

We started off by eating brunch at my parents' and admiring their new puppy. My mother, in less than a year, has acquired three Toy Manchester Terriers. They brought the latest one home yesterday from Tennessee, and she doesn't even have a name yet. I was more than happy to suggest Disney names -- Tinkerbell, Alice, Minnie -- alas, Mom nixed all of those.

While we were there, I decided to use my dad's industrial vacuum to clean out the car. Well, once I did that, it was obvious to me that it also needed a good wash. We've had a drought in this part of Georgia for quite awhile so taking it to an automatic car wash was the only option.

Now comes the part that boggles my mind. My kids were beside themselves with excitement -- seriously. We pulled up to the car wash, and it was bedlam in my car.

DD: What kind of car wash are you getting?
DS: Get the one with the colored soap!
DD: Are you getting the one with the color soap? Why don't they list which one has the colored soap? I bet it is the Deluxe one. Are you getting the Deluxe one?
DS: You better go with the Deluxe one just in case! Are you getting the Deluxe one?

I had a hard time trying to think, much less read the options on the menu. I went with the Deluxe one. When we pulled into the car wash, both kids unbuckled. As it started -- I kid you not -- my children (who aren't really that little anymore -- 10 and 8) bounced from the front of the car to the back of the car following the washer things.

DD: Here comes the water!
DS: It's like a giant rainstorm!
DD: Here comes the soap!
DS: It's colored! It's colored!
DD: I can't see what it's doing! (Looks at the panel that lights up to show what part of the cycle it is.) It's the bottom blaster! Put your ear to the floor, Connor!
DS: I can hear it washing the car's bottom! He he he! (No 8-year-old boy can say bottom without laughing -- I think it's genetic or something).

This went on for four more LONG minutes...including the drier cycle that my kids pretended sounded like a tornado.

Seriously, my kids haven't acted like this since we waited in line for the new refurbed Haunted Mansion. I never knew car washes could be so entertaining! Best seven dollars I spent all weekend.

Afterwards, I went home and took a nap.

[BrittBritt]

Oh no! If they got this excited over a CAR WASH, how on earth will they be able to contain themselves at WDW?
Here's hoping the nap helped. pixiedust:

[winkers]

:rotfl: Here I have been excited because it's been in the 40's for the past week. I'm jealous!

My son would kill me if he knew I was sharing this, but at the age of 14 he still gets excited about going through the car wash!:rotfl2:

[Charleston Princess]

Oh no! If they got this excited over a CAR WASH, how on earth will they be able to contain themselves at WDW?
Here's hoping the nap helped. pixiedust:

It did -- but then I was wide awake until midnight -- it was not fun getting up this morning!

They don't contain themselves at Disney :) -- they are definitely my Tiggers:tigger: !

:rotfl: Here I have been excited because it's been in the 40's for the past week. I'm jealous!

My son would kill me if he knew I was sharing this, but at the age of 14 he still gets excited about going through the car wash!:rotfl2:

Don't be too jealous -- it's just a fluke -- tomorrow we get to look forward to plunging temperatures and thunderstorms :crazy2: .

I love that your 14-year-old still likes car washes -- that's precious!

Here's a visual for everyone: remember the scene in Pirates 3 where they are trying to tip the boat? Yeah, that's what Chelsea and Connor were like yesterday during the car wash :rotfl: !

[carrieannie]

I thought I had subbed to this already.:rolleyes:
Well, I`m here now! :goodvibes I just have a page or two to catch up on. :thumbsup2
Did you get the table in the middle of your new van? Those looked so neat! :cool2:

[Charleston Princess]

I thought I had subbed to this already.:rolleyes:
Well, I`m here now! :goodvibes I just have a page or two to catch up on. :thumbsup2
Did you get the table in the middle of your new van? Those looked so neat! :cool2:

:welcome: Carrieannie! I am so glad that you have joined my mad, obsessive ramblings! Did you bring your chickens :)?

The table was one of the key features that I liked. However, since DH and I wanted it that day, and the model that had it was $10,000 more :scared1: (lots of other extras like leather seats and GPS that we didn't need), we opted for the Stow and Go seats instead. We do really like it even without the table.

[MouseEarsForLife]

HIYA! :wave:
Um. That was loud. Anyways, I came over here from one of your posts ( I think on resorts board...) because I wanted to tell you that:
A) We're staying at POFQ, too
B) I almost made the exact same ticker!
C) Our dates are 7-14 in June, so that would have been just uncanny!

So yeah, totally loving your report right now. It's alright to be obsessive, trust me. Of course, my parents thought I was crazy when I gave them my list of ADR's to make. And that still needs to be revised!:wizard:

Gosh, I AM SO looking forward to POFQ! The grounds are just.. :love: And I'm taking along a friend who has pestered me about getting Beignets once I told her we were staying in a place themed after the FQ. And much to our delight, they have them!

So, I guess this is another trip report I'll have to keep checking back on :woohoo: Maybe I'll make one soon... *maybe not:rolleyes1

[myAAbatteries&aTD]

Great pre-trippie! I found your link on the official June thread and read the whole thing..... LOVE your first trip to Disney story! I also have the passporter and am filling it up! I'll have to look for your recommended books aslo....

[Charleston Princess]

HIYA! :wave:
Um. That was loud. Anyways, I came over here from one of your posts ( I think on resorts board...) because I wanted to tell you that:
A) We're staying at POFQ, too
B) I almost made the exact same ticker!
C) Our dates are 7-14 in June, so that would have been just uncanny!

So yeah, totally loving your report right now. It's alright to be obsessive, trust me. Of course, my parents thought I was crazy when I gave them my list of ADR's to make. And that still needs to be revised!:wizard:

Gosh, I AM SO looking forward to POFQ! The grounds are just.. :love: And I'm taking along a friend who has pestered me about getting Beignets once I told her we were staying in a place themed after the FQ. And much to our delight, they have them!

So, I guess this is another trip report I'll have to keep checking back on :woohoo: Maybe I'll make one soon... *maybe not:rolleyes1

:welcome: I am glad I sucked you in :). We are going to be at POFQ the same time -- that's awesome! We love POFQ, so since changing back to it, I have been perfectly happy (having it paid off probably helped :thumbsup2 )! The grounds are gorgeous -- I even used one of the pictures I took of the kids there as our Christmas card.

The beignets -- mmmmmm. DH and I had beignets at Cafe du Monde in New Orleans a few years back (our last adults-only trip), and ended up going there every morning for the rest of the week -- we loved them that much. Believe it or not, we never got around to trying them at POFQ last summer -- I am definitely making it a priority this year.

Make a pre-trip report -- it is so much fun!

And what is this song Disneyland by the Foo Fighters in your siggie -- I don't think I know it -- I may have to go look it up on iTunes!

Great pre-trippie! I found your link on the official June thread and read the whole thing..... LOVE your first trip to Disney story! I also have the passporter and am filling it up! I'll have to look for your recommended books aslo....

:welcome: I am glad you enjoyed my PTR -- I am having lots of fun with it! When are you going in June? Isn't the Passporter great -- mine is filling up too and I can't wait to fill out the little pockets each day -- I keep imagining myself lying by the pool in the afternoon and writing in it.

[DWGal210]

I know I risk being laughed off the DIS boards with this question but....

What are beignets?

I'm guessing they're a dessert of some kind...someone please enlighten this Yankee! :rotfl2:

[winkers]

I know I risk being laughed off the DIS boards with this question but....

What are beignets?

I'm guessing they're a dessert of some kind...someone please enlighten this Yankee! :rotfl2:

Heaven on a plate!! bread dough, grease & sugar!!!:cloud9:
They're kinda like a donut with powdered sugar.......someone from LA can describe it better.

[Charleston Princess]

I know I risk being laughed off the DIS boards with this question but....

What are beignets?

I'm guessing they're a dessert of some kind...someone please enlighten this Yankee! :rotfl2:

Nah, you won't get laughed off the board, because they are really a New Orleans thing, and I think they only have them at Port Orleans French Quarter because of the N'awlins/Mardi Gras theme.

They are deep fried pillows of dough with a ton of powdered sugar dumped on them. Kinda like a funnel cake only in a puffy rectangle shape. Soooooo good though! But don't wear anything dark-colored because all that powdered sugar makes a mess! I should probably bring a bib for myself.

[Charleston Princess]

Heaven on a plate!! bread dough, grease & sugar!!!:cloud9:
They're kinda like a donut with powdered sugar.......someone from LA can describe it better.

:rotfl2: Well said! I could definitely use some bread dough and grease right now with the latest cold front moving through!

[DWGal210]

They sound delicious!! I will have to try those when I'm down there. I can probably get the crew to go anywhere if food is involved. :thumbsup2

Thanks for letting me know :)

[Charleston Princess]

They sound delicious!! I will have to try those when I'm down there. I can probably get the crew to go anywhere if food is involved. :thumbsup2

Thanks for letting me know :)

Speaking of food -- there is a picture on the food porn thread Disney Food Pictures...Part II is the official name) over on the Restaurants board of the dessert table on the cruise (page 29) -- talk about "Heaven on Earth"! This huge groaning table of the most wonderful creations! It made my resolve to go on a Disney cruise stronger than ever!

[DWGal210]

Oooh, I will have to check that out! Food porn...how funny is that! :goodvibes Is anyone more fun than the DIS ladies and gents?

And I have read postings from other cruisers, in all sincerity, that they brought their elastic waistbands on the cruise...I can believe it!!

I'm on the weight loss crusade now, but I know that when I take that cruise I'll be indulging! It makes me feel a little better that I'll be walking 3-5 miles per day at WDW before I go. :rotfl2:

[Charleston Princess]

Oooh, I will have to check that out! Food porn...how funny is that! :goodvibes Is anyone more fun than the DIS ladies and gents?

And I have read postings from other cruisers, in all sincerity, that they brought their elastic waistbands on the cruise...I can believe it!!

I'm on the weight loss crusade now, but I know that when I take that cruise I'll be indulging! It makes me feel a little better that I'll be walking 3-5 miles per day at WDW before I go. :rotfl2:

I laugh a lot while reading the DIS boards :).

Indulging is a must while on vacation -- especially, while on a Disney vacation! :thumbsup2

[MouseEarsForLife]

:welcome: I am glad I sucked you in :). We are going to be at POFQ the same time -- that's awesome! We love POFQ, so since changing back to it, I have been perfectly happy (having it paid off probably helped :thumbsup2 )! The grounds are gorgeous -- I even used one of the pictures I took of the kids there as our Christmas card.

The beignets -- mmmmmm. DH and I had beignets at Cafe du Monde in New Orleans a few years back (our last adults-only trip), and ended up going there every morning for the rest of the week -- we loved them that much. Believe it or not, we never got around to trying them at POFQ last summer -- I am definitely making it a priority this year.

Make a pre-trip report -- it is so much fun!

And what is this song Disneyland by the Foo Fighters in your siggie -- I don't think I know it -- I may have to go look it up on iTunes
It's actually "Disneyland" by Five for Fighting and it is on Itunes. It isn't necessarily bad song just one minor swear (rhymes with bass :rolleyes1 ) word like twice. And that's it for anything bad in it. Just thought I'd give you the heads up :thumbsup2 Otherwise it's the perfect pick-up song if you're ever feeling Disney-depressed.

And yes- I am totally hooked on your report! I may make a PTR I just haven't decided. I want to make one, and a food report with pics(when the time comes :laughing: ). However DDad saw me browsing the food pics thread and quickly disowned that idea "What is wrong with those people!" It's a Disney thing

Keep up the report! :woohoo:

[Charleston Princess]

The story I am about to tell may seem completely OT, but I promise it has a Disney happy ending.

Today, as the Weather Channel foretold, it was a solid day of thunderstorms and tornado watches. I get really freaked out when there is bad weather -- I tell my dad it is all his fault because in 1989, he made our family stay in Charleston during Hurricane Hugo. He claimed we were far enough inland, but it was the most harrowing experience of my life. I feel kind of sorry for my dad -- no one in our family has ever let him forget that! Now, anytime there are tornado watches I get all panicky. It's the worst when we are all separated -- me at my school, the kids at their school, DH at work. Blagg! That was the first thing that made today a less than magical day.

Second, today was the day for my yearly observation by my assistant principal. She had emailed me yesterday and asked if there was a time I wanted her to come. In my infinite stupidity, I told her any time would be fine. She then told me that she would come during my 4th period -- my 8th grade class :scared1: !

I cleaned my room, made sure my lesson plan was nothing less than stellar (:rolleyes: ), and even warned my darlings as they came into 4th period that I was getting observed. At this point, I should explain that I have taught these 8th graders for three years -- we understand each other, joke with each other, and, on some days, simply tolerate each other.

So, here's the scene -- my AP is sitting at my desk, taking notes, I am rockin' and rollin' on a lesson about pronoun cases, the students even have charts to fill in (for my visual learners :thumbsup2 ). Out of the blue...

Student: Why do we have a seating chart?
Me: (Thinking to myself: :confused: I am not going to acknowledge this other than to raise my eyebrow at the student.) Who can tell me when we use the nominative cases of pronouns?

Lesson continues with students answering, etc. Few minutes later:

Same Student: How many weeks do we have left this nine weeks?
Me: (Thinking: :furious: ) Name of student, you need to focus on what we are doing right now.

Lesson continues and I am praying the next 20 minutes goes quickly. I am leaning over a student's desk to check something in the textboook, and...

Another one of my angels: (In his defense, I know he was joking with me -- we joke all the time, but not TODAY!) If you were a prepared teacher, you would have your own book.
Me: (Thinking: :eek: This can't be happening! I am ignoring. I am ignoring.)

AP finishes up, leaves my observation on my desk, and leaves. And then, here is what I get.

Various Students: Who was she? Why was she in here? (They aren't the ones that get in trouble so they don't immediately recognize one of our APs).

You have got to be kidding me. Silver lining: my observation was fine -- I can continue to be a teacher :thumbsup2 .

So, between thunderstorms and observations, I was a little frazzled by the time I got home today.

And there were Minnie Jane Crocs waiting for me :banana: :banana: :banana: . DD made me model, and tomorrow, when I have my act together a little more, I will post pics! DD promised to show me how to do the whole digital camera thing. Isn't it sad that my 10-year-old is the one that will show me how to work all this technologically advanced stuff :sad2: ?

[BrittBritt]

I always tell my students the AP is there to observe THEM. Sixth graders will buy that kind of nonsense!

One of our Lang. Arts teachers who's retiring at the end of this year played a practical joke on our principal during her observation. When the principal came in to observe her, all of the kids were talking, chewing gum, listening to iPods, sitting with their feet up on the desks, etc. Our principal, being a former teacher himself, was becoming more and more fed up with the whole scene. Knowing he's not supposed to butt in during an observation, he remained quiet for as long as he could, but when he finally reprimanded one of the children, the whole class yelled out, "Gotcha!!!" :rotfl:

Ooooohhhhh! Minnie Jane Croc pics! Can't wait!

[Charleston Princess]

It's actually "Disneyland" by Five for Fighting and it is on Itunes. It isn't necessarily bad song just one minor swear (rhymes with bass :rolleyes1 ) word like twice. And that's it for anything bad in it. Just thought I'd give you the heads up :thumbsup2 Otherwise it's the perfect pick-up song if you're ever feeling Disney-depressed.

And yes- I am totally hooked on your report! I may make a PTR I just haven't decided. I want to make one, and a food report with pics(when the time comes :laughing: ). However DDad saw me browsing the food pics thread and quickly disowned that idea "What is wrong with those people!" It's a Disney thing

Keep up the report! :woohoo:

I used to be like your dad, and now I am one of them :rotfl2: !

Okay, I downloaded "Disneyland" -- I love "fun" songs! I may need to download their "Superman" song, too -- I had forgotten how much I liked that one (although not quite as happy a song)!

I always tell my students the AP is there to observe THEM. Sixth graders will buy that kind of nonsense!

One of our Lang. Arts teachers who's retiring at the end of this year played a practical joke on our principal during her observation. When the principal came in to observe her, all of the kids were talking, chewing gum, listening to iPods, sitting with their feet up on the desks, etc. Our principal, being a former teacher himself, was becoming more and more fed up with the whole scene. Knowing he's not supposed to butt in during an observation, he remained quiet for as long as he could, but when he finally reprimanded one of the children, the whole class yelled out, "Gotcha!!!" :rotfl:

Ooooohhhhh! Minnie Jane Croc pics! Can't wait!

Okay, I will have to file that idea away to use in 21 years! I can just imagine what your principal was thinking!

My Minnies are awfully comfy :thumbsup2 !

[MouseEarsForLife]

I love Minnie Janes! I have a pair of the regular Mary Janes in a perfectly green shade. And ahhh yes. Teachers getting observed. I'm sure you'll be pleased to know that I always seem to be in the quiet classes.:rolleyes1

You sound like you'd be a fun teacher anyways. I did make one of mine mad by randomly asking when we return from spring break. (whoops! I was paying attention- really I just wanted to know badly! [to count down days left of school, of course]) I know that in 8th grade, when students don't have a good teacher that they feel like they can respect, the students will be a lot worse than yours. (And trust me, 8th grade wasn't so long ago- I remember it vividly) So, congrats on being a terrific teacher! :teacher:

At least that blissful little bit of Disney showed up as a ray of sunshine in an otherwise stormy (literally and figuratively) day!:flower3:

[Charleston Princess]

I love Minnie Janes! I have a pair of the regular Mary Janes in a perfectly green shade. And ahhh yes. Teachers getting observed. I'm sure you'll be pleased to know that I always seem to be in the quiet classes.:rolleyes1

You sound like you'd be a fun teacher anyways. I did make one of mine mad by randomly asking when we return from spring break. (whoops! I was paying attention- really I just wanted to know badly! [to count down days left of school, of course]) I know that in 8th grade, when students don't have a good teacher that they feel like they can respect, the students will be a lot worse than yours. (And trust me, 8th grade wasn't so long ago- I remember it vividly) So, congrats on being a terrific teacher! :teacher:

At least that blissful little bit of Disney showed up as a ray of sunshine in an otherwise stormy (literally and figuratively) day!:flower3:

Thanks :)! Really, I don't mind the random questions most days -- heaven knows I am pretty random myself -- but today, not so much! I really can't complain about my students -- I have been very lucky -- I just always try to treat them like people, and they usually return the favor :).

I am counting down the number of school days left, too, because that means I am that much closer to Disney :banana: !

[jordanyosh]

Why go to WDW when you can go to the Car Wash....;)

Getting your technique observed is always nerve racking.....glad you passed w/ flying colors...

[Charleston Princess]

Why go to WDW when you can go to the Car Wash....;)

Getting your technique observed is always nerve racking.....glad you passed w/ flying colors...

If I had known I could have amused Chelsea and Connor with a $7 car wash, I could have saved thousands of dollars! But then, DH likes saying that our Disney trips are really for me -- which is so not true -- the kids like it too! Almost as much as car washes :) .

The best part of my observation was the comment, "Appropriate behavior was maintained because you ignored those students who were talking just to get attention." If she only knew what I was thinking through the whole ordeal!

[jordanyosh]

The best part of my observation was the comment, "Appropriate behavior was maintained because you ignored those students who were talking just to get attention." If she only knew what I was thinking through the whole ordeal!

Internal dialogue is the best...if people only knew what what going on in our minds...it would be...:scared1: :scared1:

Great comment by the AP and appropriate too....:thumbsup2

[Charleston Princess]

Internal dialogue is the best...if people only knew what what going on in our minds...it would be...:scared1: :scared1:

Great comment by the AP and appropriate too....:thumbsup2

:rotfl2: So true about the internal dialogue! Only sometimes my internal dialogue gets voiced, and I feel like an idiot while everyone around me goes :scared1: !

[skypixy]

I believe that your posts will count as my book club... I was reading with great pleasure at your family"s excitement and plans. My family went to WDW 1/17-1/20 with a DCL cruise 1/20-1/24. I miss it so!! Here is a shameles plug for DCL...do it! We have been on 3,(3 night& 2 4 nights Wonder) and I am already saving for a 7 day. I can"t wait for your next post...BTW, I do enjoy the deluxe hotels,(WL,BCR,YCR) but after reading about the other resorts I may have to check those out.:woohoo:

[Charleston Princess]

I believe that your posts will count as my book club... I was reading with great pleasure at your family"s excitement and plans. My family went to WDW 1/17-1/20 with a DCL cruise 1/20-1/24. I miss it so!! Here is a shameles plug for DCL...do it! We have been on 3,(3 night& 2 4 nights Wonder) and I am already saving for a 7 day. I can"t wait for your next post...BTW, I do enjoy the deluxe hotels,(WL,BCR,YCR) but after reading about the other resorts I may have to check those out.:woohoo:

:welcome: Thanks for joining my pre-trippie -- just think, I still have 95 (or so) days to gush :thumbsup2 !

Funny that you mentioned the DCL cruises -- I was just talking about it on another thread! That is my next goal -- to go on one! The 7-night Eastern in May, 2009 isn't much more than what we are spending this summer. I saw a dessert table pic and thought, "I must experience this!"

[MouseEarsForLife]

Don't worry- it's only 94 days! :)

[Charleston Princess]

Don't worry- it's only 94 days! :)

Yay! I love when I forget to subtract a day! ::yes::

[BrittBritt]

:welcome: Thanks for joining my pre-trippie -- just think, I still have 95 (or so) days to gush :thumbsup2 !

Funny that you mentioned the DCL cruises -- I was just talking about it on another thread! That is my next goal -- to go on one! The 7-night Eastern in May, 2009 isn't much more than what we are spending this summer. I saw a dessert table pic and thought, "I must experience this!"

SICKNESS: Planning your next vacation before you've even started your nearest vacation! :rotfl:

[Charleston Princess]

SICKNESS: Planning your next vacation before you've even started your nearest vacation! :rotfl:

:rotfl2: :rotfl2:

DISORDER: Planning not one, but two trips before you've even started your nearest vacation. (I.E. October anniversary trip with DH and summer cruise ;) ).

Speaking of, how are the October and Christmas trip plans coming along? :lmao:

[Charleston Princess]

SICKNESS: Planning your next vacation before you've even started your nearest vacation! :rotfl:

Also speaking of (at least in my own mind), I know how you like your food porn, Brittbritt -- did you see the pic of that cruise dessert table over on the food porn thread? If not, go look at it. You'll be printing cruise vacation planners right along with me once you do -- it is that mind-boggling! I think it is page 29.

[Charleston Princess]

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r21/BriarRose59/10-24-06Piratebuffet.jpg


Here, I brought it over here so we could all enjoy it!

Talk about food porn! I took one look and yelled, "Is that thing for real???" :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Sorry, I couldn't resist!

[MouseEarsForLife]

You know what? I thought the EXACT same thing when I saw that pic! I just couldn't believe it!

[Charleston Princess]

Okay, so as promised, here are pics with yours truly and my new Minnie Crocs. Chelsea wants to make sure that she gets credit, so here's me giving her credit for being the photographer :thumbsup2 . Just to let you know, I hate taking pics of myself -- I am not that photogenic :(.

The first one:
My eyes are squinty and it's clear Chelsea was not too steady. You can also see where one of our dogs is tearing up the carpet near the fireplace. GRRRRR! :headache:

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/MinnieCrocs.jpg

The close-up:

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/MinnieCrocs2.jpg

The saddest thing, I changed so that I would match the new crocs, including my Disney World t-shirt that says, "Where I Can Be Queen!"

Now, I am going to change again :).

[DWGal210]

Darling shoes!!! Cute cute cute.

I love your shirt...there is one over on Disney Shopping now with the Wicked Stepmother from Snow White on it and it says something similar.

Love the crocs, I might have to get some!

[Charleston Princess]

You know what? I thought the EXACT same thing when I saw that pic! I just couldn't believe it!

It may be my undoing -- I really want to take a cruise now!

Darling shoes!!! Cute cute cute.

I love your shirt...there is one over on Disney Shopping now with the Wicked Stepmother from Snow White on it and it says something similar.

Love the crocs, I might have to get some!

Off to look at the shirt -- I found a design on the Creative Designs board with the Evil Queen and the phrase, "What do you mean, no more Fastpasses!" I think I will have to try my hand at making t-shirts now. I also found cute designs that say, "Will trade sister/brother for Fastpass." Chelsea and Connor loved them -- I think they need shirts with that on it -- DH thinks I am crazy (but what else is new?).

[MouseEarsForLife]

Off to look at the shirt -- I found a design on the Creative Designs board with the Evil Queen and the phrase, "What do you mean, no more Fastpasses!" I think I will have to try my hand at making t-shirts now. I also found cute designs that say, "Will trade sister/brother for Fastpass." Chelsea and Connor loved them -- I think they need shirts with that on it -- DH thinks I am crazy (but what else is new?).

I love the Creative Disigns board! They inspired me to make some of my own designs. I'm decent- I've made a few cute ones. (I have 2 Finding Nemo ones, 1 Tink, 2 Alice, 1 Minnie, 1 Belle)

But those shirts you have- way cool! They sound like such a cute idea for the kids to wear! :cutie:

[BrittBritt]

:rotfl2: :rotfl2:

DISORDER: Planning not one, but two trips before you've even started your nearest vacation. (I.E. October anniversary trip with DH and summer cruise ;) ).

Speaking of, how are the October and Christmas trip plans coming along? :lmao:

Well, you got me there! :rotfl: But, it gets even more sick. DH and I are going on a Spring Break Road Trip Extravaganza starting on Apr. 6th, and the Disney trip is the only trip I want to plan! You wouldn't even think we were going anywhere in Apr. My mind has already moved way past that trip. Besides, there aren't any cool websites for people going on (probably) lame road trips. This trip was the one I agreed to when I told DH we wouldn't have to go to WDW this year. :laughing: He fell for it, and now I get both!
Oct. and Dec. are on the back burner for right now. I just have the room ressies, but that's it.
Oh, and I kinda sorta emailed my SIL yesterday to see if she'd want to take a trip to the World sometime this year. Ooops.

Also speaking of (at least in my own mind), I know how you like your food porn, Brittbritt -- did you see the pic of that cruise dessert table over on the food porn thread? If not, go look at it. You'll be printing cruise vacation planners right along with me once you do -- it is that mind-boggling! I think it is page 29.

Oh wow! That pic is wonderful! I never thought about doing a Disney cruise since we don't have children, but you do hear great things about them. I think Disney always makes a superior product. Now I'll have to check out the cruise threads. Double Ooops.

You are too precious in your Minnie Janes! I love the chocolate/pink combination. How bizarre did your family think you were for taking pictures of yourself to post on the INTERNET!? :eek: DH told me, "You know, I usually am warning people against doing that." Triple Ooops?


***Disney Cruise Special***10 pm tonight on the Travel Channel!

[winkers]

I love the crocs! They look so cute on you!

For some reason, whenever i try crocs on I'm just a big red nose away from bozo the clown.:confused3

[BrittBritt]

What smilie does one use when they want to convey the hang your head in shame emotion?

This one? :guilty:

Or this? :rolleyes2

Or possibly? :faint:

I think I might need all of those and then some....My TA stepmom at this moment is checking rates for the Oct. 22, 2009 sailing of the Wonder. (I mean it does leave on the EXACT date of my 4 year wedding anniversary---that must mean something right? It's surely a sign from a higher power that this ship is my destiny? And really, it doesn't count as vacation planning for this year (I told DH I would stop :scared: ), since it leaves NEXT year...And I mean, we would be doing something on our anniversary anyway...and surely that would have involved spending money on silly things like dinner, flowers, cards, etc....which we wouldn't even have to worry about if we were on a cruise....

CharlestonPrincess, you are a bad influence on me. I don't know how much longer my Disney Visa will allow you to be my Disfriend...

But, who cares? Here's hoping for a low fare!!! :woohoo:

[Charleston Princess]

What smilie does one use when they want to convey the hang your head in shame emotion?

This one? :guilty:

Or this? :rolleyes2

Or possibly? :faint:

I think I might need all of those and then some....My TA stepmom at this moment is checking rates for the Oct. 22, 2009 sailing of the Wonder. (I mean it does leave on the EXACT date of my 4 year wedding anniversary---that must mean something right? It's surely a sign from a higher power that this ship is my destiny? And really, it doesn't count as vacation planning for this year (I told DH I would stop :scared: ), since it leaves NEXT year...And I mean, we would be doing something on our anniversary anyway...and surely that would have involved spending money on silly things like dinner, flowers, cards, etc....which we wouldn't even have to worry about if we were on a cruise....

CharlestonPrincess, you are a bad influence on me. I don't know how much longer my Disney Visa will allow you to be my Disfriend...

But, who cares? Here's hoping for a low fare!!! :woohoo:

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: ! Okay, that is too funny! I told you...it was the dessert table, wasn't it?:)

Did you watch the Travel Channel show last night? I did -- I am thinking fall of 2009 also -- either near our anniversary in October or near our birthdays in November.

I promise I will not tempt you to spend any more money -- we'll focus on free/inexpensive things for awhile...aside from the requisite trip planning, cruise planning, and vacation shopping :rotfl: !

[scottny]

Ok I have just read it all and it sounds great your plans. u changed resorts like I did.

I love Crocs, they r so comfy.

The car wash was funny.

looking forward to hearing more.

[jordanyosh]

The crocs look great........on you....
:thumbsup2

[BrittBritt]

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: ! Okay, that is too funny! I told you...it was the dessert table, wasn't it?:)

Did you watch the Travel Channel show last night? I did -- I am thinking fall of 2009 also -- either near our anniversary in October or near our birthdays in November.

I promise I will not tempt you to spend any more money -- we'll focus on free/inexpensive things for awhile...aside from the requisite trip planning, cruise planning, and vacation shopping :rotfl: !

Watched it...loved it...ordered the DCL planning DVD.

[Charleston Princess]

I love the Creative Disigns board! They inspired me to make some of my own designs. I'm decent- I've made a few cute ones. (I have 2 Finding Nemo ones, 1 Tink, 2 Alice, 1 Minnie, 1 Belle)

But those shirts you have- way cool! They sound like such a cute idea for the kids to wear! :cutie:

Yours sound cute, too! We'll see if I manage to master the art of iron-on transferrring!

Well, you got me there! :rotfl: But, it gets even more sick. DH and I are going on a Spring Break Road Trip Extravaganza starting on Apr. 6th, and the Disney trip is the only trip I want to plan! You wouldn't even think we were going anywhere in Apr. My mind has already moved way past that trip. Besides, there aren't any cool websites for people going on (probably) lame road trips. This trip was the one I agreed to when I told DH we wouldn't have to go to WDW this year. :laughing: He fell for it, and now I get both!
Oct. and Dec. are on the back burner for right now. I just have the room ressies, but that's it.
Oh, and I kinda sorta emailed my SIL yesterday to see if she'd want to take a trip to the World sometime this year. Ooops.

Oh wow! That pic is wonderful! I never thought about doing a Disney cruise since we don't have children, but you do hear great things about them. I think Disney always makes a superior product. Now I'll have to check out the cruise threads. Double Ooops.

You are too precious in your Minnie Janes! I love the chocolate/pink combination. How bizarre did your family think you were for taking pictures of yourself to post on the INTERNET!? :eek: DH told me, "You know, I usually am warning people against doing that." Triple Ooops?


***Disney Cruise Special***10 pm tonight on the Travel Channel!

What did you SIL say? DH doesn't know I was taking pics, Connor just shakes his head, and Chelsea was all, "Can I have my own screen name, too?"

Thanks for liking my Minnie crocs -- I can't wait to wear them at Disney!

I love the crocs! They look so cute on you!

For some reason, whenever i try crocs on I'm just a big red nose away from bozo the clown.:confused3

:lmao: Oh, I feel like they are huge on me -- I figure the only safe place to wear them will be at WDW with all the other Croc wearers :).

Ok I have just read it all and it sounds great your plans. u changed resorts like I did.

I love Crocs, they r so comfy.

The car wash was funny.

looking forward to hearing more.

:welcome: I'm glad you came -- I knew as soon as I read about your resort changing that I had to subscribe to your thread!

I did notice how comfy the Crocs were when I put them on -- I just hope they don't make my feet all sweaty! :crazy2:

The crocs look great........on you....
:thumbsup2

:rotfl: Thanks -- c'mon, you know you want a pair of your own :).

Watched it...loved it...ordered the DCL planning DVD.

I ordered mine, too :thumbsup2 !

[jordanyosh]

The day I buy Crocs is the day.......I better hold my tongue cuz you just never know.;)

[Charleston Princess]

The day I buy Crocs is the day.......I better hold my tongue cuz you just never know.;)

:lmao: Be careful -- I never wanted a pair until the Minnie Janes came out, and now I own a pair! Besides, how do you resist all those Theme Park exclusive Jibbitz when you are at WDW? You need Crocs to put them on!

[MouseEarsForLife]

Yours sound cute, too! We'll see if I manage to master the art of iron-on transferrring!



Trust me- it's really easy! Because of this thread I decided to actually use one of mine yesterday to test it out.

If you get around to it, be sure to post pics, I'd love to see how they turned out!

Don't you just love the crocs? I wore them to Disney two years back without even realizing what a theme-park phenomenon they were! Now I have my croc mary janes and croc primas and have never looked back!

[emmiesmom]

Crocs come in brown and pink with Minnie heads??!!! I am constantly learning from your pre-trip report :worship: (:teacher: learning, planning and then hopefully shopping!!

[Charleston Princess]

Trust me- it's really easy! Because of this thread I decided to actually use one of mine yesterday to test it out.

If you get around to it, be sure to post pics, I'd love to see how they turned out!

Don't you just love the crocs? I wore them to Disney two years back without even realizing what a theme-park phenomenon they were! Now I have my croc mary janes and croc primas and have never looked back!

I am thinking I will try the shirts over spring break when I have some time to figure it all out!

I do love crocs -- now I am eyeing the Minnie Janes in purple for DD -- both DS and DD have the regular ones, but I am sure they will have outgrown them by the summer.

Crocs come in brown and pink with Minnie heads??!!! I am constantly learning from your pre-trip report :worship: (:teacher: learning, planning and then hopefully shopping!!

I was so excited when I saw them! The sad thing is that I will have to buy outfits to match them for this summer :).

[DWGal210]

Watched it...loved it...ordered the DCL planning DVD.

I'm so happy to see that both Britt and Princess are thinking about the cruise...I'll let you know all the juicy details when I get back so you can convince your DHs that it's the way to go! :goodvibes And yes, since it leaves on your anniversary, that does count as a sign! :woohoo:

[scottny]

:welcome: I'm glad you came -- I knew as soon as I read about your resort changing that I had to subscribe to your thread!

I did notice how comfy the Crocs were when I put them on -- I just hope they don't make my feet all sweaty! :crazy2:

my feet never once got sweaty and this was the second trip I used them.

The day I buy Crocs is the day.......I better hold my tongue cuz you just never know.;)
HEY!!! This is a respectable thread.
you never know till you try. they r very comfy.

[carissanboys]

Being a croc lover myself, your updated title really caught my eye ;) I have some catching up to do, but I will be back :)

[carissanboys]

I'm seeing lots of similarities between us. We're the same age. I, too, have a Connor. My husband is in the Navy and yours use to be. I LOVE buying books. Love crocs. I'm excited to see what else we have in common :)

[carissanboys]

Ok - all caught up :) I really like your style of PTR'ing (I think I just made up a new verb). Kind of reminds me of my own ;)

Looking forward to reading more!

[j_lehr]

I am still catching up on your PTR but so far, it has been fun to read!

I am a substitute, so I know a little what it is like in the middle school. I tend to like high school and elementary although most of the middle school kids I have had haven't been bad kids, most of them just want to be understood and respected.

I want to stay in AKL someday so I am definitely jealous! The only deluxe we have stayed in is Poly - for our honeymoon - and while it was reallly nice, I don't think we spent enough time at the resort to enjoy it! But I would love to have a view at the AKL of the animals!!

I LOVE your minnie crocs...I keep telling myself I should get a pair of crocs but they honesty don't look too comfty. But the little charms you put on top almost have me convinced! :rotfl2:

[IluvXU]

Enjoying your report...not quite caught up yet.... We are trying POFQ for the first time about when you are there too. Love the crocs... I bought some last year for our trip and loved them!

[MouseEarsForLife]

I would buy a pair of Minnie Crocs, but as I just bought my Mary Janes I don't think that would go over well. I think for one to be truly croc-obsessed they would have to buy the wedge-dress shoe Crocs!:lmao: I'm thinking about trying the flipflops out because as much as I love my Mary Janes... I still find them kind of ugly, but way comfortable.
Sassari (http://shop.crocs.com/pc-112-4-sassari.aspx?reqid=112&reqProdTypeId=41p&subsectionname=footwear&section=products)
Cyprus (http://shop.crocs.com/pc-1174-4-cyprus.aspx?reqid=1174&reqProdTypeId=41p&subsectionname=footwear&section=products)
EDITED To add the two "dress" crocs (see above)

[Charleston Princess]

I'm so happy to see that both Britt and Princess are thinking about the cruise...I'll let you know all the juicy details when I get back so you can convince your DHs that it's the way to go! :goodvibes And yes, since it leaves on your anniversary, that does count as a sign! :woohoo:

Yes, you are now our official DCL investigator! We expect lots of pics and information! I started laying the groundwork today for DH to go for it -- little things like, "Hey, check out this pic of Castaway Cay." I know he's on to me, but I also know if I talk about it enough, he will finally give in to shut me up. That's what works with the WDW trips anyway :thumbsup2 .

my feet never once got sweaty and this was the second trip I used them.

HEY!!! This is a respectable thread.
you never know till you try. they r very comfy.

We'll convince Jordan yet! It's my new goal ;) ! Good to know that my feet won't sweat -- I am now trying to decide if I need to break them in beforehand. Decisions, decisions!

I am still catching up on your PTR but so far, it has been fun to read!

I am a substitute, so I know a little what it is like in the middle school. I tend to like high school and elementary although most of the middle school kids I have had haven't been bad kids, most of them just want to be understood and respected.

I want to stay in AKL someday so I am definitely jealous! The only deluxe we have stayed in is Poly - for our honeymoon - and while it was reallly nice, I don't think we spent enough time at the resort to enjoy it! But I would love to have a view at the AKL of the animals!!

I LOVE your minnie crocs...I keep telling myself I should get a pair of crocs but they honesty don't look too comfty. But the little charms you put on top almost have me convinced! :rotfl2:

:welcome: I'm glad that you have had fun reading!

Substitute teacher :worship: -- you rock! I think that is one of the hardest jobs because the kids always want to test you! Middle schoolers are pretty great, but they are always wanting to test their limits.

Actually, I was surprised how comfy the crocs are! DD and DS have had so much fun getting the charms (jibbitz) to put in their crocs that I wanted in on the excitement too :).

Enjoying your report...not quite caught up yet.... We are trying POFQ for the first time about when you are there too. Love the crocs... I bought some last year for our trip and loved them!

:welcome: Thanks for joining in!

You'll love POFQ -- make sure you try the beignets in the bakery section!

I would buy a pair of Minnie Crocs, but as I just bought my Mary Janes I don't think that would go over well. I think for one to be truly croc-obsessed they would have to buy the wedge-dress shoe Crocs!:lmao: I'm thinking about trying the flipflops out because as much as I love my Mary Janes... I still find them kind of ugly, but way comfortable.

Let me know what you think of the flip flops if you get them -- I am a flip-flop kind of girl in the summer, especially at the pool!

Hmmm...those are interesting dress crocs -- doesn't it defeat the entire purpose of crocs to put heels on them??? :)

[Charleston Princess]

Being a croc lover myself, your updated title really caught my eye ;) I have some catching up to do, but I will be back :)

:welcome:

I'm seeing lots of similarities between us. We're the same age. I, too, have a Connor. My husband is in the Navy and yours use to be. I LOVE buying books. Love crocs. I'm excited to see what else we have in common :)

You spell Connor correctly, too! :thumbsup2 What is your husband in the Navy? My dad was in the Navy for 22 years as a submariner, and of course, DH was in the Navy also -- so I have lived most of my life as a Navy brat. I still get teary-eyed when I hear Anchors Aweigh, and harbor a secret wish that my Connor will want to go to Annapolis. :)

Ok - all caught up :) I really like your style of PTR'ing (I think I just made up a new verb). Kind of reminds me of my own ;)

Looking forward to reading more!

Now, I am totally intrigued as to what else we have in common -- I am headed over to your PTR and TR!

I am definitely liking the PTR'ing as a verb! :rotfl:

[carissanboys]

You spell Connor correctly, too! :thumbsup2 What is your husband in the Navy? My dad was in the Navy for 22 years as a submariner, and of course, DH was in the Navy also -- so I have lived most of my life as a Navy brat. I still get teary-eyed when I hear Anchors Aweigh, and harbor a secret wish that my Connor will want to go to Annapolis. :)

Yes, there's no Conor or Conner for me! ;)

My husband is a CTR - cryptologic technician. He's never actually been stationed on a ship, although that could change this next time around. He works at ONI in Suitland, MD (basically D.C.). I really have no clue what he does because he has a high security clearance and can't talk about most stuff :confused3

Thanks for the welcome! :)

[MouseEarsForLife]

Let me know what you think of the flip flops if you get them -- I am a flip-flop kind of girl in the summer, especially at the pool!

Hmmm...those are interesting dress crocs -- doesn't it defeat the entire purpose of crocs to put heels on them??? :)

I just ordered the capri crocs in the Chocolate/Cotton color. I think the same color scheme as the Minnie Janes. I've ordered the athens before and HATED them. I bought the athens off of Zappos, which are great- but had a totally unrevealing picture of these shoes. I returned them immediately.

However, I'm ordering direct from crocs this time.

Anyways, well- I'm all for a comfortable dress shoe, but I cannot imagine how easy it would be to balance in wedge-crocs. Plus I think they would lose the big plus for me with crocs- arch support! Who buys them? A review would be nice :thumbsup2

[Charleston Princess]

Yes, there's no Conor or Conner for me! ;)

My husband is a CTR - cryptologic technician. He's never actually been stationed on a ship, although that could change this next time around. He works at ONI in Suitland, MD (basically D.C.). I really have no clue what he does because he has a high security clearance and can't talk about most stuff :confused3

Thanks for the welcome! :)

Wow! That sounds pretty heavy-duty! My dad being on a submarine during the Cold War still can't/won't talk about a lot of the stuff that he did/saw.

Started reading your TR and burst out laughing because my DH is totally addicted to WoW! Sometimes we even have what I call parallel conversations where he is telling me about the latest quest/leveling/horde battle, and I respond with the latest DIS board information. It works for us though :confused3 !

[Charleston Princess]

I just ordered the capri crocs in the Chocolate/Cotton color. I think the same color scheme as the Minnie Janes. I've ordered the athens before and HATED them. I bought the athens off of Zappos, which are great- but had a totally unrevealing picture of these shoes. I returned them immediately.

However, I'm ordering direct from crocs this time.

Anyways, well- I'm all for a comfortable dress shoe, but I cannot imagine how easy it would be to balance in wedge-crocs. Plus I think they would lose the big plus for me with crocs- arch support! Who buys them? A review would be nice :thumbsup2

See, I need arch support too since I am essentially flat-footed. I guess it comes from spending too much time on my feet.

Will have to go and look at the capris and see what other colors they come in!

[MouseEarsForLife]

See, I need arch support too since I am essentially flat-footed. I guess it comes from spending too much time on my feet.

Will have to go and look at the capris and see what other colors they come in!

Be sure to take a look at the canvas capris, too. Same as regular ones but with fabric on the the top (like a real flip flop) instead of Croc material. I thought they were cute, but I preferred the colors on the Croc material ones. Okay so maybe I have a slight croc obsession. But it's only 3 (going on 4) pairs, honest!:rotfl: And that doesn't count the Minnie Janes if I can find a reasonable, well, reason to buy them.

[Charleston Princess]

Be sure to take a look at the canvas capris, too. Same as regular ones but with fabric on the the top (like a real flip flop) instead of Croc material. I thought they were cute, but I preferred the colors on the Croc material ones. Okay so maybe I have a slight croc obsession. But it's only 3 (going on 4) pairs, honest!:rotfl: And that doesn't count the Minnie Janes if I can find a reasonable, well, reason to buy them.

The canvas capris are cute, but my faves are the lime green capris (celery, I think they call it). I was all set to go ahead and get them, but they are out of stock in my size :(. I'll just have to wait until they come in -- in the meantime, I better look for a bathing suit that will match -- whew, Disney planning is getting expensive!

[MouseEarsForLife]

The canvas capris are cute, but my faves are the lime green capris (celery, I think they call it). I was all set to go ahead and get them, but they are out of stock in my size :(. I'll just have to wait until they come in -- in the meantime, I better look for a bathing suit that will match -- whew, Disney planning is getting expensive!

Oooh! The Celery Capris rock! :love: I was going to get those but I have celery Mary Janes and I'm just weird about that stuff. Bummer about your size- I'm sure they'll be in stock in time :confused3 . About planning- I know, right? The other people in my party laughed at me when I bought 3 guide books. (Passporter, Unofficial Guide, Passporter's Open Mouse (Disabilities book)) I haven't told anybody yet that all my recent croc purchases are really for the trip! And then there's that whole shopping adventure I'll have to do because I have no summer clothes!.. oh dear:laughing:

One way to cut down prices is the whole "make your own disney t-shirt" iron ons. Buy cheap t-shirts and iron on the designs. Disney store online has that awful shipping price most of the time, and Disney store at the mall has a very limited selection of anything adult.:upsidedow

[MRYPPNS]

I'm so glad I came over here tonight...got thru the whole thing.

You are a master of the Fuzzy Disney Math.

Can't wait for more!

I might have to get a pair of those mary janes mickey crocs. I have regular pink disney ones.

[BrittBritt]

I'm sorry, but I just cannot take those "dress" Crocs seriously. I'm with you CharlestonPrincess, doesn't that defeat the purpose of wearing Crocs?! I'm having dinner with my stepmom tomorrow, so I should have info about the Disney cruise then. Oh, and DH and I have a "date" tomorrow with the Disney Planning DVD. I know, I know, I'm the queen of romance. :p

[carissanboys]

Wow! That sounds pretty heavy-duty! My dad being on a submarine during the Cold War still can't/won't talk about a lot of the stuff that he did/saw.

Started reading your TR and burst out laughing because my DH is totally addicted to WoW! Sometimes we even have what I call parallel conversations where he is telling me about the latest quest/leveling/horde battle, and I respond with the latest DIS board information. It works for us though :confused3 !

I actually play WOW as well, use to anyway. I don't have time for it anymore, but I do have a character that is level 63 :) I am far more addicted to the DIS though! ;)

I didn't even realize they made Disney crocs in the Mary Jane style!!! I've been eyeing the Mary Janes since they came out. I have a pair of the regular Disney ones, but a purchase may be in my future - far distant future though!

[j_lehr]

Actually, I was surprised how comfy the crocs are! DD and DS have had so much fun getting the charms (jibbitz) to put in their crocs that I wanted in on the excitement too :).


Can you tell me where you got yours? I found a website with them on - Taylor Shoes? I wish they came in as many color choices as the other crocs! I am really not sure what size to buy...I tried to measure the bottom of my foot last night and I think I come up a 7 but since I am normally an 8 that makes me nervous! LOL. I can't believe I am obsessing over something that I said I was never going to buy! :rotfl2:

[Charleston Princess]

Oooh! The Celery Capris rock! :love: I was going to get those but I have celery Mary Janes and I'm just weird about that stuff. Bummer about your size- I'm sure they'll be in stock in time :confused3 . About planning- I know, right? The other people in my party laughed at me when I bought 3 guide books. (Passporter, Unofficial Guide, Passporter's Open Mouse (Disabilities book)) I haven't told anybody yet that all my recent croc purchases are really for the trip! And then there's that whole shopping adventure I'll have to do because I have no summer clothes!.. oh dear:laughing:

One way to cut down prices is the whole "make your own disney t-shirt" iron ons. Buy cheap t-shirts and iron on the designs. Disney store online has that awful shipping price most of the time, and Disney store at the mall has a very limited selection of anything adult.:upsidedow

Oh, trust me, 3 guidebooks is just the beginning -- mine almost have a whole shelf to themselves! Definitely doing some of my own t-shirts (the kids want some too) -- DH just rolls his eyes.

I'm so glad I came over here tonight...got thru the whole thing.

You are a master of the Fuzzy Disney Math.

Can't wait for more!

I might have to get a pair of those mary janes mickey crocs. I have regular pink disney ones.

Thanks for coming over! Glad you are enjoying it! See what I mean about my own FDM! :) I like the regular Disney crocs, too, but the holes are too big for jibbitz :(. It's all about the accessories for me :rotfl: .

I'm sorry, but I just cannot take those "dress" Crocs seriously. I'm with you CharlestonPrincess, doesn't that defeat the purpose of wearing Crocs?! I'm having dinner with my stepmom tomorrow, so I should have info about the Disney cruise then. Oh, and DH and I have a "date" tomorrow with the Disney Planning DVD. I know, I know, I'm the queen of romance. :p

Ohhh, keep me posted on what your stepmom says about the cruise. DH was easier than I thought to convince -- this morning he was looking at dates and prices with me :eek: ! I wonder what he is up to -- he is never this easy to convince. Maybe the brainwashing is working! Mawhhahaha!

I actually play WOW as well, use to anyway. I don't have time for it anymore, but I do have a character that is level 63 :) I am far more addicted to the DIS though! ;)

I didn't even realize they made Disney crocs in the Mary Jane style!!! I've been eyeing the Mary Janes since they came out. I have a pair of the regular Disney ones, but a purchase may be in my future - far distant future though!

DIS is definitely my new addiction! I should be helping DD with her project and what am I doing? Looking for pics for her poster? Nope, sitting here on the DIS.

Can you tell me where you got yours? I found a website with them on - Taylor Shoes? I wish they came in as many color choices as the other crocs! I am really not sure what size to buy...I tried to measure the bottom of my foot last night and I think I come up a 7 but since I am normally an 8 that makes me nervous! LOL. I can't believe I am obsessing over something that I said I was never going to buy! :rotfl2:

I bought from Crocs directly and just bought my regular size -- they fit fine! See, it's all because they are called Minnie Janes -- I am convinced that was the best marketing tool ever!

[Charleston Princess]

It's been pretty dull around here as far as trip planning goes. No resort changes, no ADR changes, no itinerary changes. Everything has stayed pretty even keel. No drama (and I am not complaining at all)! So, I thought I would share some of my projects.

First up: Here are the Travel Journals -- one for DD, DS, and myself. After I showed them to DH, he asked, "Where's mine?" Honestly? :confused3
http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/TravelJournalsPhoto.jpg

Next: Here are the fun books for DD and DS. DD already found them, so no surprises there! The child must have been a bloodhound in a previous life! Amy over on the DISigns board did the covers!
http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/FunBooksPhoto.jpg

The Animal Kingdom Group: Tip Envelopes for Donald's Safari Breakfast and Yak and Yeti. http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/TipEnvelopes1.jpg

The Epcot Group: Tip Envelopes for Le Cellier and Teppan Edo.
http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/TipEnvelopes3-2.jpg

Boma and Boma: My mind boggles that we are eating there twice in one day. :confused:
http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/TipEnvelopes2.jpg

Chef Mickey's: So excited about eating here because we never have! I plan on taking LOTS of pics!
http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/TipEnvelopes4.jpg
The tip envelopes also came from the DISigns board -- they are so talented and creative over there!

I still have a to-do list for some other projects:
Autograph Books
Disney Fun Bags for the Car
Mousekeeping Envelopes
Countdown Calender
T-shirts with Iron-On Transfers
DIS tags using Lime Green Mickeys
Epcot Passports

Whew! I thought I was running out of things to do, but now that I have made list, I realize I have a long way to go!

[carissanboys]

:worship: :worship: :worship:

Wow. I've never heard of people doing tip envelopes for restaurants! How cool!

Love the journals and activity books for the kids. I can't wait to see what you come up with for your countdown calendar :)

[BrittBritt]

Love the journals? Did you create the actual notebook, or did you just create the covers? How many pages are the activity booklets you made? The DISign board is truly addictive, and I can't wait until I attempt to create a t-shirt. THAT should be interesting.
Doesn't it make you suspicious when it's TOO easy to talk DH into something? :scratchin

[nts4wdw]

Ok I haven't made it to the end yet, but I love this pretrip report! My husband and I went to college in Charleston (where we met) and honeymooned there (bed and breakfast on the battery)! We have two children in middle school and I feel your pain, sister! (feel the love too!)
Your picture itinerary is awesome! What a great idea!
We will be there the same time you are! We can't wait! Soon as school is out, we are on the road!
Hope this wasn't too random! Looking forward to hearing more plans!!

[Charleston Princess]

:worship: :worship: :worship:

Wow. I've never heard of people doing tip envelopes for restaurants! How cool!

Love the journals and activity books for the kids. I can't wait to see what you come up with for your countdown calendar :)

I never thought of tip envelopes either, but I have been spending LOTS of time over on the DISign board -- they have such clever ideas.

Thanks for loving the journals and activity books -- they were fun to make.

As for the countdown calendar, I have several ideas percolating (like an old-fashioned coffee pot) -- haven't come up with anything concrete yet. My big thing right now is trying to decide when to start it. I just don't know :confused3 .

Love the journals? Did you create the actual notebook, or did you just create the covers? How many pages are the activity booklets you made? The DISign board is truly addictive, and I can't wait until I attempt to create a t-shirt. THAT should be interesting.
Doesn't it make you suspicious when it's TOO easy to talk DH into something? :scratchin

Thanks! The notebooks are just plain composition books that I covered with all the scrapbooking paper, stickers, and ribbons. They were super fun!

I think the activity books ended up being about thirty pages each -- there are coloring pages, mazes, word searches, Disney trivia, some word puzzles -- I found a sticky on the DISign board, and basically printed off all the stuff I could find. Hopefully, it will keep my two pretty busy on the drive down.

I keep wondering what DH is going to say he wants. Of course, he will preface it by saying, "I agreed to go on a Disney cruise."

Ok I haven't made it to the end yet, but I love this pretrip report! My husband and I went to college in Charleston (where we met) and honeymooned there (bed and breakfast on the battery)! We have two children in middle school and I feel your pain, sister! (feel the love too!)
Your picture itinerary is awesome! What a great idea!
We will be there the same time you are! We can't wait! Soon as school is out, we are on the road!
Hope this wasn't too random! Looking forward to hearing more plans!!

:welcome:! Hurray, a fellow Charleston lover! Did you and DH go to the College of Charleston -- I went there for two years (Go Cougars!), but then finished my degree at Kennesaw State University here in Georgia (went from being a Cougar to an Owl :sad2: ). Did you stay at Two Meeting Street Inn for your honeymoon? Love that place, but we always end up staying with my best friend from high school (the one that snuck off with me to WDW) when we visit.

Are you staying at POFQ, too? I think I love it so much because it has the same feel to the architecture and grounds as Charleston. I will have to go read your TRs --where's your PTR? :)

:worship: Two middle schoolers at one time??? You deserve an award! Love 'em to death, but there are some days those 75 minutes don't go fast enough. Luckily, it's spring and that's when I love them the most. The week before Christmas vacation? Not so much.

[MouseEarsForLife]

Wow! Love, love, love all of the things made! :lovestruc

I wouldn't have ever remembered to make such cute things! :cutie:

... Shameless plug:rolleyes1 : I posted a few of my designs on the Disigns board: Right here! (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=23712941#post23712941)

Check 'em out if you want!:rolleyes1

It's really nice to hear from someone who's already visited POFQ before! It gives a real perspective, especially because you went in June also!

[DWGal210]

What great books! How great is that!?

And the tip envelopes are such a great idea...I might have to use that one. :goodvibes

[Charleston Princess]

Wow! Love, love, love all of the things made! :lovestruc

I wouldn't have ever remembered to make such cute things! :cutie:

... Shameless plug:rolleyes1 : I posted a few of my designs on the Disigns board: Right here! (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=23712941#post23712941)

Check 'em out if you want!:rolleyes1

It's really nice to hear from someone who's already visited POFQ before! It gives a real perspective, especially because you went in June also!

Thanks! :goodvibes

And I can't wait for June to get here again -- are we down to 89 or 88 days?

I love your designs! The more I look at the first one, the more I love it -- especially because the Genie is one of my all-time fave characters. I just love it at the end of the movie when he says that he is going to Disney World!

[Charleston Princess]

What great books! How great is that!?

And the tip envelopes are such a great idea...I might have to use that one. :goodvibes

Thank you! :) I love the tip envelopes -- DH looked at me last night when I was printing off a new one for Chef Mickey's (it has the cartoon artwork as opposed to the picture of Mickey) like he was thinking he needed to get me some help. :rotfl:

[MouseEarsForLife]

Thanks! :goodvibes

And I can't wait for June to get here again -- are we down to 89 or 88 days?

I love your designs! The more I look at the first one, the more I love it -- especially because the Genie is one of my all-time fave characters. I just love it at the end of the movie when he says that he is going to Disney World!


Well that depends on who you ask- :lmao: I think my ticker is wrong :sad2:
And a day off. So I have 89 and you have 90. Which means if you check your Disney account if you made an itinerary on their site they'll tell you to book dining reservations now. Uhh thanks?:confused3 June is so close IMO! I mean with spring break coming up it's just going to fly by! I hope. :scared:

Thanks for the compliments on my designs! The first one is my most recent/favorite.

[Charleston Princess]

Well that depends on who you ask- :lmao: I think my ticker is wrong :sad2:
And a day off. So I have 89 and you have 90. Which means if you check your Disney account if you made an itinerary on their site they'll tell you to book dining reservations now. Uhh thanks?:confused3 June is so close IMO! I mean with spring break coming up it's just going to fly by! I hope. :scared:

Thanks for the compliments on my designs! The first one is my most recent/favorite.

I am hoping it flies by! That would be super!

That's too funny about the itinerary saying make my dining reservations -- I think they are about 90 days LATE on that one!

[MouseEarsForLife]

I am hoping it flies by! That would be super!

That's too funny about the itinerary saying make my dining reservations -- I think they are about 90 days LATE on that one!

And the DISboard obsessive planners wonder why people are so confused when they can't get in to restaurants.. Make up your mind Disney! :rotfl2:

It's so weird now that there's not much left to do for the trip. I suppose from here 'til then it'll be: Sleep, Study, Shop, Shop, Shop, Sleep, Make Stuff, and eventually, PACK.

Like if I can find any time at all I want to sew my own tote bag with Disney material. Gah. Like that'll ever happen!

So whats going on with your planning?

[jordanyosh]

WOW!!!!!!

Great Trip Journals....

Great tip envelopes....I've never seen those before either.......

Women...you are so crafty...

[Charleston Princess]

WOW!!!!!!

Great Trip Journals....

Great tip envelopes....I've never seen those before either.......

Women...you are so crafty...

Thanks :goodvibes !

Hey, that's why She's Crafty by the Beastie Boys is my theme song -- it was about someone who scrapbooks, right? :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: I crack myself up!

Oh, and so I don't sully my rep here on the DIS -- it's not really my theme song :). (Remember Elaine on Seinfeld and her Witchy Woman by the Eagles theme song? :lmao:)

[carissanboys]

Thanks :goodvibes !

Hey, that's why She's Crafty by the Beastie Boys is my theme song -- it was about someone who scrapbooks, right? :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: I crack myself up!

Oh, and so I don't sully my rep here on the DIS -- it's not really my theme song :). (Remember Elaine on Seinfeld and her Witchy Woman by the Eagles theme song? :lmao:)

Hey now. There's a royalties fee that must be paid whenever you use my son's name. Pay up girl!

I miss Seinfeld :sad1:

[Charleston Princess]

And the DISboard obsessive planners wonder why people are so confused when they can't get in to restaurants.. Make up your mind Disney! :rotfl2:

It's so weird now that there's not much left to do for the trip. I suppose from here 'til then it'll be: Sleep, Study, Shop, Shop, Shop, Sleep, Make Stuff, and eventually, PACK.

Like if I can find any time at all I want to sew my own tote bag with Disney material. Gah. Like that'll ever happen!

So whats going on with your planning?

You know what's really sad -- I have bought some summer clothes the last couple of weeks, and now I have a dedicated Vacation Clothes Drawer -- I don't want to wear them before WDW and risk some horrific stain happening. I think my OCD is becoming unbearable. :rotfl:

Nothing much happening on the planning front -- it's the end of the nine weeks, so I am scrambling to grade papers, enter grades, and give finals. I did buy dividers for my trip planning binder and new highlighters today -- I plan on taking pics of my trip binder later tonight :thumbsup2 .

[carissanboys]

You know what's really sad -- I have bought some summer clothes the last couple of weeks, and now I have a dedicated Vacation Clothes Drawer -- I don't want to wear them before WDW and risk some horrific stain happening. I think my OCD is becoming unbearable. :rotfl:

Nothing much happening on the planning front -- it's the end of the nine weeks, so I am scrambling to grade papers, enter grades, and give finals. I did buy dividers for my trip planning binder and new highlighters today -- I plan on taking pics of my trip binder later tonight :thumbsup2 .

:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 Then we can have a BINDER party! You have to watch out for some binders though :sad2: I'm not namin' names or anything, but some of them can get pretty crazy at parties.

[Charleston Princess]

Hey now. There's a royalties fee that must be paid whenever you use my son's name. Pay up girl!

I miss Seinfeld :sad1:

:lmao:

Will you accept...one of these...

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/DisneyDollars.jpg

I miss Seinfeld, too -- when I saw Putty as the main Soarin' flight attendant (or whatever he is supposed to be), I was so excited, I was yanking on DH's arm and whispering, "Look, it's Putty!" Anytime DH wants a laugh out of me, he holds up his hand and does the whole, "High Five" scenerio -- cracks me up everytime!

[Charleston Princess]

:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 Then we can have a BINDER party! You have to watch out for some binders though :sad2: I'm not namin' names or anything, but some of them can get pretty crazy at parties.

Uh oh -- the last time I was over on your thread, binders were just getting introduced (or was it on MRYPPPNS thread)...did it all go downhill from there??? Be right back...have to go find out :eek: .

Are we going to have to film an episode of "When Good Binders Turn Bad"???

[MouseEarsForLife]

You know what's really sad -- I have bought some summer clothes the last couple of weeks, and now I have a dedicated Vacation Clothes Drawer -- I don't want to wear them before WDW and risk some horrific stain happening. I think my OCD is becoming unbearable. :rotfl:

Nothing much happening on the planning front -- it's the end of the nine weeks, so I am scrambling to grade papers, enter grades, and give finals. I did buy dividers for my trip planning binder and new highlighters today -- I plan on taking pics of my trip binder later tonight :thumbsup2 .


Ohh that's okay. We're all a little OCD when it comes to WDW planning! But, alas, I have no summer clothes. And I don't think wearing jeans and a sweatshirt would go over well in June :eek:

Binders are fun. We have a plain notebook that was in a pile. But I may need to steal it now and make a design for it! I already have an idea.:wizard: :lovestruc

I just re-read a few of your PTR sections- mainly reservations. Looks like we'll be in the MK on the same day. As for the other days- I'm a little confused but I think we'll be in Epcot on Friday, too. I wanted Teppan Edo, but decided the times were too late or too early. So we have Chefs de France planned!

A few notes about reservations: We're trying Yak&Yeti too! We're doing it for an early lunch, though because for dinner we're going to the place your DH said no to: 50'sPTC. The reason? A 50th birthday! (Although your DH sounds an awful lot like him- I haven't completely explained the whole.. "act" yet :rolleyes1 ) [Get it? 50th at 50's]

[carissanboys]

:lmao:

Will you accept...one of these...

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/DisneyDollars.jpg

I miss Seinfeld, too -- when I saw Putty as the main Soarin' flight attendant (or whatever he is supposed to be), I was so excited, I was yanking on DH's arm and whispering, "Look, it's Putty!" Anytime DH wants a laugh out of me, he holds up his hand and does the whole, "High Five" scenerio -- cracks me up everytime!

I will gladly accept that bill! :) Thank you.

I love me some Putty. He was such a great character. And him and Elaine together. (oops - this is really off topic isn't it? how can we get it back on topic?) Maybe if Elaine and Putty had gone to Disney World, their relationship would have lasted.

[carissanboys]

Uh oh -- the last time I was over on your thread, binders were just getting introduced (or was it on MRYPPPNS thread)...did it all go downhill from there??? Be right back...have to go find out :eek: .

Are we going to have to film an episode of "When Good Binders Turn Bad"???

:rotfl:

Yeah, that was on Heidi's thread. You won't find any naughty binders there, though. It's all behind the scenes ;)

[Charleston Princess]

I will gladly accept that bill! :) Thank you.

I love me some Putty. He was such a great character. And him and Elaine together. (oops - this is really off topic isn't it? how can we get it back on topic?) Maybe if Elaine and Putty had gone to Disney World, their relationship would have lasted.

:rotfl2: Good idea about Elaine and Putty going to Disney World.

Or maybe Elaine could have stolen Mickey antenna toppers instead of the Jesus fish off someone's car? :rotfl:

:rotfl:

Yeah, that was on Heidi's thread. You won't find any naughty binders there, though. It's all behind the scenes ;)

Oh, sounds like expose material! :lmao:

[Charleston Princess]

Ohh that's okay. We're all a little OCD when it comes to WDW planning! But, alas, I have no summer clothes. And I don't think wearing jeans and a sweatshirt would go over well in June :eek:

Binders are fun. We have a plain notebook that was in a pile. But I may need to steal it now and make a design for it! I already have an idea.:wizard: :lovestruc

I just re-read a few of your PTR sections- mainly reservations. Looks like we'll be in the MK on the same day. As for the other days- I'm a little confused but I think we'll be in Epcot on Friday, too. I wanted Teppan Edo, but decided the times were too late or too early. So we have Chefs de France planned!

A few notes about reservations: We're trying Yak&Yeti too! We're doing it for an early lunch, though because for dinner we're going to the place your DH said no to: 50'sPTC. The reason? A 50th birthday! (Although your DH sounds an awful lot like him- I haven't completely explained the whole.. "act" yet :rolleyes1 ) [Get it? 50th at 50's]

Sounds like it's time to shop for summer clothes!!! :woohoo:

Oh, you will have to let us all see your idea for your trip planner when you are finished! I enjoy seeing other people's designs (I often copy them, too)!

A 50th and the 50's -- that is so cool! Hmmm...in 12 years DH will be 50 (now there's a scary thought) and chances are he will have forgotten about 50's Prime Time...:scratchin I guess it's probably a bit premature to plan a trip 12 years down the road! :lmao:

Once I post "the Official Itinerary," we will have to compare in more detail! Quick rundown though: we will be at DHS on Sunday, MK on Monday, AK on Tuesday, Typhoon Lagoon and Epcot on Wednesday, wherever we decide on Thursday, Epcot on Friday, and one last park (probably MK) before we leave on Saturday.

[jordanyosh]

:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 Then we can have a BINDER party! You have to watch out for some binders though :sad2: I'm not namin' names or anything, but some of them can get pretty crazy at parties.

Uh oh -- the last time I was over on your thread, binders were just getting introduced (or was it on MRYPPPNS thread)...did it all go downhill from there??? Be right back...have to go find out :eek: .

Are we going to have to film an episode of "When Good Binders Turn Bad"???

My binder is an Angel....:rolleyes1

[Charleston Princess]

The trip binder really wanted to be the topic of tonight's update, but I just don't have it in me to take pics of her and upload, etc. Instead, I decided to share with you our itinerary. Please note that parks and plans are subject to change ;) .

I want to start you off with a pic of how happy we all are when we are at the place "Where Dreams Come True." This was taken October 14 on mine and DH's anniversary and our first ever Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party.

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/CastleMNSSHP.jpg

DD is wearing her signature Mouse Ears (pumpkins for obvious reasons), DH is wearing his "fake" grin, but honestly was enjoying himself and was the one that wanted us to take our picture in front of the castle, DS does not normally go about dressed in a black cape (he was a vampire and got his face painted soon after -- we did insist that he take his vampire teeth out for this picture -- the second post on my PTR shows what he looks like with the too big teeth in -- fearsome Spike on Buffy the Vampire Slayer? Not so much!), and yours truly grinning from ear to ear. Anyway, we love WDW :love: !

Getting back to the itinerary (which since I don't want to type it for every day does include a swimming/rest break each afternoon):

Sunday, June 8:
Arrive and check in to Port Orleans French Quarter. I am hoping to be on the road by six which will put us at the check-in counter no later than 2:00 (hopefully our room will be ready).

We are going to go to Disney Hollywood Studios that afternoon and evening. Planning on experiencing the end of Star Wars Weekends (DS and I are big Star Wars nerds -- yes, I wanted to be Princess Leia when I was little). Also, planning on eating at Backlot Express, seeing IJSS, riding Star Tours, Tower of Terror (heaven help me!), RnRC (I really, really, really hope that DS isn't 48 inches yet -- yes, I am that big of a chicken), and Toy Story Mania if open.

Big Finale: Fantasmic! We have never seen it, and I really want this to be our big start to our week.

Monday, June 9
Magic Kingdom Day
Big Musts: Jungle Cruise, PotC, Splash Mountain, BTMRR, Haunted Mansion, IASW, Peter Pan's Flight, Carrousel, Space Mountain, Buzz Lightyear (I think I am being overly ambitious on getting all those in).

Lunch: Pecos Bill's or Columbia Harbor House
Dinner: Chef Mickey's (will need to ride the monorail and maybe get another pic like this one of Connor -- he loves the monorails).

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/ConnorMonorail.jpg

Back to MK for Wishes and SpectroMagic.

Tuesday, June 10
Animal Kingdom Day:
Breakfast: Donald's Safari Breakfast at Tusker House
Rides/Attractions: Kilimanjaro Safaris, Expedition Everest, Kali River Rapids, Festival of the Lion King, Dinosaur
Dinner: Yak and Yeti

Wednesday, June 11
Typhoon Lagoon (first time there -- not sure what to do)
Epcot: Le Cellier for dinner, tour half of World Showcase, watch Illuminations

Thursday, June 12
Boma: Breakfast and Dinner
Park: Either Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom. Maybe Downtown Disney via boat from POFQ.

Friday, June 13
Epcot: Future World in the morning, World Showcase in the afternoon and evening.
Dinner: Teppan Edo

Saturday, June 14
This is our departure day. :sad1: I am hoping to squeeze in one more park visit or maybe convince DH to stay an extra night.

[Charleston Princess]

My binder is an Angel....:rolleyes1

That's what she WANTS you to think...:rolleyes:

[scottny]

looks really good.

:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

[carissanboys]

I hadn't decided if BINDER was male or female yet. How can you tell? :confused3

Itinerary looks good :thumbsup2

Pecos Bills or Columbia Harbor House are both good. My slogan is: Stay AWAY from Cosmic RAYS ;) It isn't really (even though I wasn't impressed and thought their mashed potatoes were lousy) but my slogan rhymes :)

[Charleston Princess]

looks really good.

:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

Thanks! Of course, it could all change at a whim...:rolleyes1

I hadn't decided if BINDER was male or female yet. How can you tell? :confused3

Itinerary looks good :thumbsup2

Pecos Bills or Columbia Harbor House are both good. My slogan is: Stay AWAY from Cosmic RAYS ;) It isn't really (even though I wasn't impressed and thought their mashed potatoes were lousy) but my slogan rhymes :)

My binder is obviously a girl since she is hot pink -- one of those girly-girl types at that...:sad2:

We usually eat at Pecos' but I think I want to try CHH this time -- of course, if we end up at MK two days, then we can eat at both. Have never tried Cosmic Rays -- the size and the various food ordering stations keep me away! (My sentence rhymes too :thumbsup2 ).

[BrittBritt]

Great itinerary! My vote is also for CHH. They may put crack in the Anchor's Aweigh sandwiches; they're that good.

Goodness gracious...all this talk about binders! :laughing:

[carissanboys]

Great itinerary! My vote is also for CHH. They may put crack in the Anchor's Aweigh sandwiches; they're that good.

I've heard the tuna sandwich there is really good. Is it tuna salad? Or is it like a fish burger?

[MouseEarsForLife]

Great update!
We plan on Sunday: AK/Studios for dinner Monday: MK Tuesday: Studios Wednesday: MK/Whatever day Thursday: Epcot/Contemporary for Dinner Friday: Epcot/Studios for Lunch Saturday: Seeing if I can grab a few more MK hours

If you really want to see my binder designs:
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff317/MouseEars4L/BinderSidepng.png
(For the side part)

http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff317/MouseEars4L/BinderSlippng2.png
(for the front clear pocket)

[DWGal210]

Darling idea!!

[BrittBritt]

I've heard the tuna sandwich there is really good. Is it tuna salad? Or is it like a fish burger?

Like tuna salad. I can't imagine what it is that makes it so wonderful. I mean, I make tuna sandwiches at home all the time and they're just so-so. The bread is fabulous...
My DH is sitting next to me making fun of me for trying to describe over the internet the particular taste of this tuna sandwich. So, I'll stop here. He's relentless in his teasing! :joker:

[BrittBritt]

Great update!
We plan on Sunday: AK/Studios for dinner Monday: MK Tuesday: Studios Wednesday: MK/Whatever day Thursday: Epcot/Contemporary for Dinner Friday: Epcot/Studios for Lunch Saturday: Seeing if I can grab a few more MK hours

If you really want to see my binder designs:
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff317/MouseEars4L/BinderSidepng.png
(For the side part)

http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff317/MouseEars4L/BinderSlippng.png
(for the front clear pocket)

Oh, I LOVE this. Would you mind posting it again but with July as the month? :worship:

[MouseEarsForLife]

BrittBritt, I put your design at my boardHere! (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1750165)

UPDATE: Anybody who printed my front slip should reprint- I made a typo! (Two buts)

Sorry for hijacking the thread!

[Charleston Princess]

Great itinerary! My vote is also for CHH. They may put crack in the Anchor's Aweigh sandwiches; they're that good.

Goodness gracious...all this talk about binders! :laughing:

Will have to go to allears to check out the menu again...

Oh, head over to MRYPPNS PTR (PTR for the Planning Obsessed) -- that is where the whole binder thing started (although, I believe the very first known references to binders can be traced back to Jordanyosh's PTR with his binder and Flat Winkers). Did you like my "scholarly" spin??? :rotfl:

Great update!
We plan on Sunday: AK/Studios for dinner Monday: MK Tuesday: Studios Wednesday: MK/Whatever day Thursday: Epcot/Contemporary for Dinner Friday: Epcot/Studios for Lunch Saturday: Seeing if I can grab a few more MK hours

If you really want to see my binder designs:
So, there is some overlap with our plans...

Love the designs! Minnie is just too cute! I am headed over to your thread on the DISigns board next...

Like tuna salad. I can't imagine what it is that makes it so wonderful. I mean, I make tuna sandwiches at home all the time and they're just so-so. The bread is fabulous...
My DH is sitting next to me making fun of me for trying to describe over the internet the particular taste of this tuna sandwich. So, I'll stop here. He's relentless in his teasing! :joker:

Yummy! Sounds delicious!

Sometimes our DHs just don't understand about the DIS. :sad2:

BrittBritt, I put your design at my boardHere! (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1750165)

UPDATE: Anybody who printed my front slip should reprint- I made a typo! (Two buts)

Sorry for hijacking the thread!

Hijack ANYTIME -- that is fine with me :)!

[IluvXU]

Your plan sounds great! Some wonderful eats!

Backlot Express- this was a gem of a lunch place.... just get there before Indiana Jones lets out! The hoard of people when we were eating- yikes!


Pecos Bill's or Columbia Harbor House my two MK favorites.... DH made us eat at Columbia House twice last trip!

Le Cellier yum-o

Hope to run into you all!

[MouseEarsForLife]

So, there is some overlap with our plans...

Love the designs! Minnie is just too cute! I am headed over to your thread on the DISigns board next...

Hijack ANYTIME -- that is fine with me :)!

Yeah- I guess so! I'm sorry to say I probably won't have anything DIS on me. Family does not approve much of communicating over the internet :sad2: However, you may see me decked in my DISigns with celery mary jane crocs on :rotfl:

Speaking of Mary Janes- I put them to the test today! I have an intense course of songs set up on the game Dance Dance Revolution. My feet were pretty darn comfortable in my Mary Janes when I did it. (And this course is about 1.2 miles of jogging- but I don't believe it):dance3:

Oh and thanks again for the compliments. I wasreally nervous about having people use what I make- but I got over it!

[Charleston Princess]

Yeah- I guess so! I'm sorry to say I probably won't have anything DIS on me. Family does not approve much of communicating over the internet :sad2: However, you may see me decked in my DISigns with celery mary jane crocs on :rotfl:

Speaking of Mary Janes- I put them to the test today! I have an intense course of songs set up on the game Dance Dance Revolution. My feet were pretty darn comfortable in my Mary Janes when I did it. (And this course is about 1.2 miles of jogging- but I don't believe it):dance3:

So, here I will be accosting women wearing celery mary janes, "Are you by chance MouseEarsForLife? Because I am Charleston Princess." Sounds like something out of a comedy about spies or discarded lines from Ghostbusters! :rotfl2:

No blisters after Dance Dance Revolution? I am deathly afraid of blisters from my crocs. I don't want to hobble around in pain at WDW!

You have done a great job on your designs -- I noticed a lot of the other designers complimented yours :).

[MouseEarsForLife]

So, here I will be accosting women wearing celery mary janes, "Are you by chance MouseEarsForLife? Because I am Charleston Princess." Sounds like something out of a comedy about spies or discarded lines from Ghostbusters! :rotfl2:

No blisters after Dance Dance Revolution? I am deathly afraid of blisters from my crocs. I don't want to hobble around in pain at WDW!

You have done a great job on your designs -- I noticed a lot of the other designers complimented yours :).

Oh yes haven't you heard of the secret language of the ancient cult of DIS? :wizard: :confused: :laughing:

And nope- no blisters after DDR- and I wear my crocs barefoot. (I really couldn't bare socks unless I wear them as slippers) If it makes you feel better I wore Caymen? (normal) crocs to WDW a few years back. I had no problems at all with them from what I can remember.

I was super excited to have feedback from people. I have barely any free time but it's usually spent DIS-ing or disigning! (Crazy... no... I'm not crazy :scared: :scared: )

[Charleston Princess]

Your plan sounds great! Some wonderful eats!

Backlot Express- this was a gem of a lunch place.... just get there before Indiana Jones lets out! The hoard of people when we were eating- yikes!


Pecos Bill's or Columbia Harbor House my two MK favorites.... DH made us eat at Columbia House twice last trip!

Le Cellier yum-o

Hope to run into you all!

I am hoping we can time our visit to Backlot so we don't run into any crowds.

The more I hear about CHH, the more I think that will have to be our lunch place...everyone seems to like it! Plus, it's by the Haunted Mansion so maybe I can convince everyone to ride a second time :).

Le Cellier: :lovestruc I cannot wait!

I just read your plans over on your PTR -- I think we will probably run into each other -- we tend to spend a lot of time at the pool (DD and DS like to swim; I like to lay comatose on a lounge chair) and in the food court during our afternoon "rests." Also, right now we plan on being at MK the same day (Monday).

[MouseEarsForLife]

Hey! A really good tip for crocs is Break them in before you go!
IMO the more you wear them the more comfortable they feel!

[jordanyosh]

Great update!
We plan on Sunday: AK/Studios for dinner Monday: MK Tuesday: Studios Wednesday: MK/Whatever day Thursday: Epcot/Contemporary for Dinner Friday: Epcot/Studios for Lunch Saturday: Seeing if I can grab a few more MK hours

If you really want to see my binder designs:
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff317/MouseEars4L/BinderSidepng.png
(For the side part)

http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff317/MouseEars4L/BinderSlippng2.png
(for the front clear pocket)

Very nice designs.......

[jordanyosh]

CCH is my favorite restaurant either CS or TS at MK. I have the ham sandwich....:thumbsup2. The veggie chili is good too.

The theming makes this restaurant stand out from Cosmic Ray's. You'll see when I get to this part in my TR.......

Try to go during non peak periods......just a suggestion.

Your itinerary looks good, but long days....I take it you're not doing Hoppers.

[Charleston Princess]

Hey! A really good tip for crocs is Break them in before you go!
IMO the more you wear them the more comfortable they feel!

If it would just warm up, I could. I am so ready for spring and warm weather, it's not even funny!

CCH is my favorite restaurant either CS or TS at MK. I have the ham sandwich....:thumbsup2. The veggie chili is good too.

The theming makes this restaurant stand out from Cosmic Ray's. You'll see when I get to this part in my TR.......

Try to go during non peak periods......just a suggestion.

Your itinerary looks good, but long days....I take it you're not doing Hoppers.

Another vote for CHH! It's about to acheive "definite" status on my itinerary! Can't wait to see pics of it on your TR!

Yeah, I always overplan our days -- I am a tadbit overambitious. During October, I stressed to the family that we were staying until 12:00 at MNSSHP. By 11:00, I was the one that wanted to leave, I was so tired!

Not doing park hoppers -- this is the first time ever, so it will be a new experience! It saved $200 not doing the hopper option (that's a lot of souvies).

Any thoughts on how to plan our Typhoon Lagoon day?

[BrittBritt]

Speaking of Mary Janes- I put them to the test today! I have an intense course of songs set up on the game Dance Dance Revolution. My feet were pretty darn comfortable in my Mary Janes when I did it. (And this course is about 1.2 miles of jogging- but I don't believe it):dance3:


:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:
Oh, I LOVE that you put your Crocs through a test run of Dance Dance Revolution! I can just picture how that would go over in my house:

DH: "Errr...what are you doing?"
Me: (sweating and out of breath) "You know, just breaking in my shoes for Disney."

[MouseEarsForLife]

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:
Oh, I LOVE that you put your Crocs through a test run of Dance Dance Revolution! I can just picture how that would go over in my house:

DH: "Errr...what are you doing?"
Me: (sweating and out of breath) "You know, just breaking in my shoes for Disney."

Oh trust me it gets the job done! :laughing:
The one issue I had was just the way my feet are- my big toe typically rubs up against the the edge of a shoe. It's no big deal- and I credited it to the fact theres a lot of jumping in my "INTENSE COURSE"

Seriously though if you guys have a treadmill or whatever- take off the clothes hanging on it and start Croc-Walkin'!:thumbsup2

I just realized I should probably call Disney Dining (again :sad2: ) and add it to all the reservations that we have somebody with a severe peanut allergy. :scared:

[MRYPPNS]

Oh, head over to MRYPPNS PTR (PTR for the Planning Obsessed) -- that is where the whole binder thing started (although, I believe the very first known references to binders can be traced back to Jordanyosh's PTR with his binder and Flat Winkers). Did you like my "scholarly" spin??? :rotfl:

Thanks for pimpin' out my PTR! All binders are welcome to post on my PTR.

IThe more I hear about CHH, the more I think that will have to be our lunch place...everyone seems to like it! Plus, it's by the Haunted Mansion so maybe I can convince everyone to ride a second time :).
I suggest eating upstairs at CHH. I had the chicken strips...they were good but I should have gotten the tuna sandwich...so I've scheduled it in for our Nov 08 trip.

[Charleston Princess]

Oh trust me it gets the job done! :laughing:
The one issue I had was just the way my feet are- my big toe typically rubs up against the the edge of a shoe. It's no big deal- and I credited it to the fact theres a lot of jumping in my "INTENSE COURSE"

Seriously though if you guys have a treadmill or whatever- take off the clothes hanging on it and start Croc-Walkin'!:thumbsup2

I just realized I should probably call Disney Dining (again :sad2: ) and add it to all the reservations that we have somebody with a severe peanut allergy. :scared:

Treadmill? What is this treadmill of which you speak? I own no such creature. :rolleyes: DD has Twister Dance -- would that work?

You better call and let them know about the peanut allergy! Scary stuff! I had a student a few years ago with a peanut allergy. We took the students down to Plains, GA where she broke out into hives just by being near a peanut processing plant :eek:!

Thanks for pimpin' out my PTR! All binders are welcome to post on my PTR.

I suggest eating upstairs at CHH. I had the chicken strips...they were good but I should have gotten the tuna sandwich...so I've scheduled it in for our Nov 08 trip.

Hey, I will pimp PTR/TRs anytime! :thumbsup2

Okay, so we need to eat upstairs at CHH and order the tuna sandwich and veggie chili. Yum! Wish I could have ordered that for dinner tonight!

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:
Oh, I LOVE that you put your Crocs through a test run of Dance Dance Revolution! I can just picture how that would go over in my house:

DH: "Errr...what are you doing?"
Me: (sweating and out of breath) "You know, just breaking in my shoes for Disney."

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

[MouseEarsForLife]

Treadmill? What is this treadmill of which you speak? I own no such creature. :rolleyes: DD has Twister Dance -- would that work?

You better call and let them know about the peanut allergy! Scary stuff! I had a student a few years ago with a peanut allergy. We took the students down to Plains, GA where she broke out into hives just by being near a peanut processing plant :eek:!


Yipes! We've only had one scare- on an international flight! :scared1: Throat beginning to close, swelling, etc. I really should get on that. Think it's worth telling them that a member in our party will be arriving in a wheelchair (but can easily walk to a table/chair)?

Update: Well, apparently we aren't. Because we never do. Like that changes anything? I'll just have to make sure we have an epi-pen on hand!

[askelton]

Seriously though if you guys have a treadmill or whatever- take off the clothes hanging on it and start Croc-Walkin'!:thumbsup2


Do you have these?
https://shop.crocs.com/images/Product/icon/15_1_Lime.jpg

or these? https://shop.crocs.com/images/Product/icon/14_1_LimeFuchsia.jpg

I love the Athens flip flops and have had no problem wearing them at Disney. Sometimes I do use Body Glide on the bottom of my feet though.

[Charleston Princess]

Yipes! We've only had one scare- on an international flight! :scared1: Throat beginning to close, swelling, etc. I really should get on that. Think it's worth telling them that a member in our party will be arriving in a wheelchair (but can easily walk to a table/chair)?

Update: Well, apparently we aren't. Because we never do. Like that changes anything? I'll just have to make sure we have an epi-pen on hand!

Scary about the flight!

I think Disney goes above and beyond to try to accomodate allergies -- I would let them know.

[MouseEarsForLife]

Scary about the flight!

I think Disney goes above and beyond to try to accomodate allergies -- I would let them know.

Yeah I'm still thinking about it..

Hey guess what- today my amazingly amazingtastic Croc Capri shoes came. They are so cute and- SO COMFORTABLE. Like more than normal Croc comfort. the backs are kinda raised but cushioned with great support!

[winkers]

Ok, so if I were to hypothetically break down and buy some crocs, would I get strange looks if I wore them to the gym????

[Charleston Princess]

Do you have these?
https://shop.crocs.com/images/Product/icon/15_1_Lime.jpg

or these? https://shop.crocs.com/images/Product/icon/14_1_LimeFuchsia.jpg

I love the Athens flip flops and have had no problem wearing them at Disney. Sometimes I do use Body Glide on the bottom of my feet though.

Are the Athens the second pic? I'm still learning all the names.

Yeah I'm still thinking about it..

Hey guess what- today my amazingly amazingtastic Croc Capri shoes came. They are so cute and- SO COMFORTABLE. Like more than normal Croc comfort. the backs are kinda raised but cushioned with great support!

Cool! :thumbsup2 I guess I definitely need to see if the celery Capris are in stock yet :).

Ok, so if I were to hypothetically break down and buy some crocs, would I get strange looks if I wore them to the gym????

Nah, go for it!

[carissanboys]

Have you seen or tried the Cleos? I don't like anything between my toes (no flip flops for me). I really like my Cleos although I don't think I could handle a whole day in the parks with them.

[jordanyosh]

CP,

As far as TL, timing is everything. Try and get there right before opening. If you can avoid renting towels or getting lockers, it will save you valuable time.

My favorite location is above the Wave Pool on the right hand side(when you face the Wave Pool):

It overlooks the Wave Pool.
It's close to an Entrance to Castaway Creek.
There's Counter Service and restrooms just a short walk away.
Wave pool not too far either.

If kids like Slides, try Crush N Gusher first. There are some more mellow waterslides fairly close to that prime seating location.

The farthest slides would be the innertube slides located on the other side of the park.

Hope this helps...

[Charleston Princess]

CP,

As far as TL, timing is everything. Try and get there right before opening. If you can avoid renting towels or getting lockers, it will save you valuable time.

My favorite location is above the Wave Pool on the right hand side(when you face the Wave Pool):

It overlooks the Wave Pool.
It's close to an Entrance to Castaway Creek.
There's Counter Service and restrooms just a short walk away.
Wave pool not too far either.

If kids like Slides, try Crush N Gusher first. There are some more mellow waterslides fairly close to that prime seating location.

The farthest slides would be the innertube slides located on the other side of the park.

Hope this helps...

It does -- tremendously! Thanks!

I was planning on bringing our own towels and wasn't going to bother renting a locker.

Definitely making notes of all your tips! I am excited about TL because it will be a brand-new Disney experience -- just keep your fingers crossed that we don't see any Brazillians in thongs like you did :rotfl2: !

[Charleston Princess]

Have you seen or tried the Cleos? I don't like anything between my toes (no flip flops for me). I really like my Cleos although I don't think I could handle a whole day in the parks with them.

Nope, I haven't tried them -- sadly, my Minnie Janes are my first crocs :sad2: . Although, I am hoping to add the Capris to my repertoire soon!

[Charleston Princess]

As a language arts teacher, one of the activities I do with my students when we learn a new vocabulary word is to have the students list the things the new word is not (supposedly this helps students learn the meaning of the word). So, I have made a variation of that "game." I'll call it: How Today was NOT a Disney Day in Northwest Georgia!

Definition of Disney Day: Day filled with magic and pixie dust; generally having to do with Walt Disney World in some way.

Note: This guy :scared1: and this guy :eek: will appear frequently.

Background: DD is on her school's Science Olympiad team. Basically, Science Olympiad is a set of events where children use their knowledge of science to compete in pairs in application-type scenerios -- for example, DD competes in Crime Busters where she has to solve a crime using such things as fingerprinting and analysis of chemicals (think CSI for elementary students) and Write-It, Do-It where she writes a set of directions for assembling a structure and then her partner (who has not seen the structure) must assemble it from the directions. Today was the big district competition.

Back to How Today was NOT a Disney Day!

1. Wake up to find that downtown Atlanta had been hit by a tornado last night. It's been declared a State of Emergency. :scared1: I live about 35 minutes away from downtown Atlanta and know every single landmark that was hit. Seeing the pictures on the news breaks my heart.

2. DD comes out wearing ripped jeans for her SO competition. Argument commences when I insist that as a representative of her school, she has to wear jeans without holes. Mean Mommy: Strike One.

3. At 11:15, DD has meltdown at SO because I will not let her roam the halls of the high school where the competition is being held. Mean Mommy: Strike 2.

4. Murmuring and whispering among parents and coaches is that a rather nasty storm is headed directly at us. I am rather worried because I hate storms (see previous posts), and DS and DH are not with us. :eek:

5. 12:00: Tornado sirens start going off. Principal moves all parents and students into inner hallways. Children are crying and parents are trying to be brave. :eek: Intermittent cell phone service in hallway -- I can't seem to get a signal to call DH and DS. :scared1: Inwardly, I am screaming like Chicken Little, outwardly trying to stay calm.

6. 12:30: My cell phone rings (it's my dad) but when I pick up -- no signal. My MIL is with us, so I leave her with DD and move into central hallway (with windows :eek: ) to call Dad. He tells me that what the National Weather Service is pretty sure is a tornado is headed right for us and should be there about 12:36. :scared1: Good news is that it is passing to the south of where he and my mom are, so that means it is also passing to the south of where DH and DS are.

7. 12:45: I think worst is over, start breathing normally when principal comes over intercom to announce that the what they are pretty sure is a tornado is about to be passing over us. He adds that everyone needs to stay in the central hallway and parents need to stay with their children.

8. 12:55: DD probably has shirt burn from me rubbing her back while I pray that everyone is safe.

9. 12:57: I can't take the suspense any longer and seeing the principal at the end of the hallway, go to find out the situation. He assures me the worst has past us, and they will be handing out the awards in the hallway since we are still under a warning until 1:15.

10. Awards are passed out and after checking weather situation with Dad, hightail it home.

11. Drive home: I feel like an extra from the movie Twister. It has stopped raining, but roads are filled with debris and there are no traffic lights working. Some roads are flooded and driving is a bit hair-raising :eek: .

So, as not to end my update on a sour note, here are a couple of ways today could be classified as a Disney Day:
1. Everyone I know is safe and damage is minimal.
2. DD got first place in Crime Busters and second place in Write-It, Do-It.
3. DD's school won first place so they will go to state.
4. Dinner tonight was Disney Happy Meals. Always fun to find WDW PotC tattoos with your chicken nuggets :thumbsup2 .

Now, dear readers, what makes a Disney Day in your eyes?

[jordanyosh]

A Disney Day for me now is looking back at my trip in February and being thankful for the opportunity to spend time with my family and friends.

[jordanyosh]

I'm glad everyone is safe.....:grouphug:

[MRYPPNS]

What a scary day! Congrats to your DD for doing such an excellent job :cheer2:

[MouseEarsForLife]

:grouphug: :grouphug:

Thank goodness you're all safe! Tornadoes and big storms terrify me!

A Disney day to me is one where I'm surrounded by family and/or friends and we're all having fun! :banana: Leave the drama at home! ;)

[carissanboys]

:hug: Tornadoes scare the poop out of me! Which is why I was so nervous on our first night in Disney and that crazy storm came through. I'm glad y'all are safe and congrats to your DD!! :cheer2:

A Disney day to me is when our family does something special, like go for a hike and we all have a great time and the boys say how it was the best time ever :goodvibes I love to make memories that they will remember when they're older, which is a big part of why I love going to Disney World :)

[BrittBritt]

Oh my goodness, CharlestonPrincess, I was crying as I read your post. Thank the Lord you all were safe and damage was minimal.
I had NO IDEA this went on yesterday---we weren't near a tv all day. Now I'll have to call DBIL to make sure everything is ok with them. (They are in Canton; he teaches at Woodstock MS.)
Your daughter is AWESOME for doing so well in her competition. That sounds like so much fun. I wish there was a competition for adults!
You are not a mean mommy (as you already know). You are one with rules, and I applaud you for sticking to them when so many parents these days cave immediately.
I, shamefully, also bought Happy Meals for DH and I for dinner on Fri. Hey, I wanted to see the toys, and I had to have a chance at winning the grand prze. Needless to say, I didn't win.
Once again, so glad you're all ok. :hug:

[IluvXU]

Yikes... the weather you all had is scary.... glad that somethings turned out good though!

[nts4wdw]

Bless your heart!! It's so hard to be the mom someitmes, being brave on the outside when inwardly you want to panic. You did a good job!!! So glad you are all OK!!
And thanks for the reminder about the happy meals.

[scottny]

Congrats on DD's wins.

Glad everyone was ok with the storms.

[j_lehr]

As a language arts teacher, one of the activities I do with my students when we learn a new vocabulary word is to have the students list the things the new word is not (supposedly this helps students learn the meaning of the word). So, I have made a variation of that "game." I'll call it: How Today was NOT a Disney Day in Northwest Georgia!

Definition of Disney Day: Day filled with magic and pixie dust; generally having to do with Walt Disney World in some way.

Note: This guy :scared1: and this guy :eek: will appear frequently.

Background: DD is on her school's Science Olympiad team. Basically, Science Olympiad is a set of events where children use their knowledge of science to compete in pairs in application-type scenerios -- for example, DD competes in Crime Busters where she has to solve a crime using such things as fingerprinting and analysis of chemicals (think CSI for elementary students) and Write-It, Do-It where she writes a set of directions for assembling a structure and then her partner (who has not seen the structure) must assemble it from the directions. Today was the big district competition.

Back to How Today was NOT a Disney Day!

1. Wake up to find that downtown Atlanta had been hit by a tornado last night. It's been declared a State of Emergency. :scared1: I live about 35 minutes away from downtown Atlanta and know every single landmark that was hit. Seeing the pictures on the news breaks my heart.

2. DD comes out wearing ripped jeans for her SO competition. Argument commences when I insist that as a representative of her school, she has to wear jeans without holes. Mean Mommy: Strike One.

3. At 11:15, DD has meltdown at SO because I will not let her roam the halls of the high school where the competition is being held. Mean Mommy: Strike 2.

4. Murmuring and whispering among parents and coaches is that a rather nasty storm is headed directly at us. I am rather worried because I hate storms (see previous posts), and DS and DH are not with us. :eek:

5. 12:00: Tornado sirens start going off. Principal moves all parents and students into inner hallways. Children are crying and parents are trying to be brave. :eek: Intermittent cell phone service in hallway -- I can't seem to get a signal to call DH and DS. :scared1: Inwardly, I am screaming like Chicken Little, outwardly trying to stay calm.

6. 12:30: My cell phone rings (it's my dad) but when I pick up -- no signal. My MIL is with us, so I leave her with DD and move into central hallway (with windows :eek: ) to call Dad. He tells me that what the National Weather Service is pretty sure is a tornado is headed right for us and should be there about 12:36. :scared1: Good news is that it is passing to the south of where he and my mom are, so that means it is also passing to the south of where DH and DS are.

7. 12:45: I think worst is over, start breathing normally when principal comes over intercom to announce that the what they are pretty sure is a tornado is about to be passing over us. He adds that everyone needs to stay in the central hallway and parents need to stay with their children.

8. 12:55: DD probably has shirt burn from me rubbing her back while I pray that everyone is safe.

9. 12:57: I can't take the suspense any longer and seeing the principal at the end of the hallway, go to find out the situation. He assures me the worst has past us, and they will be handing out the awards in the hallway since we are still under a warning until 1:15.

10. Awards are passed out and after checking weather situation with Dad, hightail it home.

11. Drive home: I feel like an extra from the movie Twister. It has stopped raining, but roads are filled with debris and there are no traffic lights working. Some roads are flooded and driving is a bit hair-raising :eek: .

So, as not to end my update on a sour note, here are a couple of ways today could be classified as a Disney Day:
1. Everyone I know is safe and damage is minimal.
2. DD got first place in Crime Busters and second place in Write-It, Do-It.
3. DD's school won first place so they will go to state.
4. Dinner tonight was Disney Happy Meals. Always fun to find WDW PotC tattoos with your chicken nuggets :thumbsup2 .

Now, dear readers, what makes a Disney Day in your eyes?



Ooh, sorry you had such a bad day!! I hate storms too! I think you handled it well considering! I am sure you're a great mom! It's tough to say no and set rules but I think in the end they need and appreciate the guidance. Congrats to your daughter for doing so well!!

A Disney day to me?? I never really thought about this...I guess it would be a day with all of my favorite things. (For some reason now, I can't get that song from the Sound of Music outta my head...My favorite Things!) Some of my favorite things (when I am not at Disney) are warm days, taking walks with my husband, watching movies with my daughter, eating dinner all together (a must in our house when we are all home, which surprisingly is most nights), trips to Coldstone (now we know where those 15 pounds came from!) and a peaceful night where all chores are done and I can cuddle up with a book.

Hope you are doing ok...
Jes

[Charleston Princess]

I'm glad everyone is safe.....:grouphug:

Thank you! Me too!

What a scary day! Congrats to your DD for doing such an excellent job :cheer2:

It was for sure! We are so proud of DD -- she is really excited, too! Tomorrow she gets to wear her medals to school. :thumbsup2

:grouphug: :grouphug:

Thank goodness you're all safe! Tornadoes and big storms terrify me!


I am a real chicken where bad weather is concerned. The Weather Channel and I are very good friends.

:hug: Tornadoes scare the poop out of me! Which is why I was so nervous on our first night in Disney and that crazy storm came through. I'm glad y'all are safe and congrats to your DD!! :cheer2:


Tornadoes scare the poop out of me, too! This was the closest one has come in several years. The last time they spotted rotation in the clouds was back in 2003 while I was at work. We had the kids in the hall for about an hour then, too.

I am just sad that DD's school's achievement was a bit overshadowed by the weather. Although, this morning in the paper there was a whole page devoted to the competition. That was cool. :woohoo:

Oh my goodness, CharlestonPrincess, I was crying as I read your post. Thank the Lord you all were safe and damage was minimal.
I had NO IDEA this went on yesterday---we weren't near a tv all day. Now I'll have to call DBIL to make sure everything is ok with them. (They are in Canton; he teaches at Woodstock MS.)
Your daughter is AWESOME for doing so well in her competition. That sounds like so much fun. I wish there was a competition for adults!
You are not a mean mommy (as you already know). You are one with rules, and I applaud you for sticking to them when so many parents these days cave immediately.
I, shamefully, also bought Happy Meals for DH and I for dinner on Fri. Hey, I wanted to see the toys, and I had to have a chance at winning the grand prze. Needless to say, I didn't win.
Once again, so glad you're all ok. :hug:

Oh, Brittbritt, I didn't mean to make you cry :(. Did you get ahold of your DBIL? Canton was actually hit worse than us yesterday. After the first round, another thunderstorm came through, it wasn't bad here, but became pretty powerful about the time it reached Canton. I hope he and his family are okay :hug: .

I was doing a lot of thanking the Lord yesterday and today! Trust me!

Science Olympiad is a lot of fun for the kids -- all the events sound cool to me -- I would like to compete in Wildlife Safari or (until yesterday) Weather or Not (since I am such a weather freak).

Thanks for the kind words about my parenting :goodvibes . I think DD is going to end up realizing that having a mom as a teacher definitely has a downside. I am always seeing these kids with no limits and the trouble they get into :eek:.

Really, how could any of us resist the YOMD Happy Meals? Sadly, we didn't win the trip either. Does that mean we have a reason to get more next week? :rotfl:

Thanks again! I am awfully glad we are ok too :).

Yikes... the weather you all had is scary.... glad that somethings turned out good though!

Thank you. The pictures in the paper of the storm damage are quite sobering though. Luckily though, no one here in our county was injured (unfortunately there were two deaths in neighboring counties to the west of us). Things can always be replaced and rebuilt so we are very fortunate.

Bless your heart!! It's so hard to be the mom someitmes, being brave on the outside when inwardly you want to panic. You did a good job!!! So glad you are all OK!!
And thanks for the reminder about the happy meals.

Thank you! It is one of the toughest things: being a brave mom. After I got off the phone with my dad, DD wanted to know what he said. I felt like a political spin doctor trying to decide what to say without freaking her out. :eek:

Yes, definitely go get Happy Meals -- 15 families will win trips to WDW. :thumbsup2

Congrats on DD's wins.

Glad everyone was ok with the storms.

Thank you. I noticed that Atlanta even garnered an article in the New York Times this morning. Of course, one of the people interviewed had to have bad grammar with his quote, "This don't happen too often." I promise there are people south of the Mason-Dixon line who know correct subject-verb agreement. :rotfl:

Ooh, sorry you had such a bad day!! I hate storms too! I think you handled it well considering! I am sure you're a great mom! It's tough to say no and set rules but I think in the end they need and appreciate the guidance. Congrats to your daughter for doing so well!!

Hope you are doing ok...
Jes

Today has been a MUCH better day and I am doing much better, thank you!

I know one day DD will understand why I set the limits that I do -- about the time she has her own children, probably. :rotfl:

[Charleston Princess]

A Disney Day for me now is looking back at my trip in February and being thankful for the opportunity to spend time with my family and friends.


A Disney day to me is one where I'm surrounded by family and/or friends and we're all having fun! :banana: Leave the drama at home! ;)

A Disney day to me is when our family does something special, like go for a hike and we all have a great time and the boys say how it was the best time ever :goodvibes I love to make memories that they will remember when they're older, which is a big part of why I love going to Disney World :)


A Disney day to me?? I never really thought about this...I guess it would be a day with all of my favorite things. (For some reason now, I can't get that song from the Sound of Music outta my head...My favorite Things!) Some of my favorite things (when I am not at Disney) are warm days, taking walks with my husband, watching movies with my daughter, eating dinner all together (a must in our house when we are all home, which surprisingly is most nights), trips to Coldstone (now we know where those 15 pounds came from!) and a peaceful night where all chores are done and I can cuddle up with a book.

Hope you are doing ok...
Jes

I love reading about everyone's ideal Disney Days! It was very cheering.

I like how everyone seemed to mention spending time with their families and friends -- I totally agree that is the ideal Disney Day!

Carissanboys: That is definitely why my family always seems to go to WDW -- we have so much fun and make so many memories...I hope Chelsea and Connor never outgrow the place! As my mom always points out, I haven't outgrown it yet :thumbsup2 .

Jes: You hit the nail on the head with your list of favorite things. They're some of mine, too. I would have to substitute Brewster's for Coldstone though -- that is our local ice cream place. Their strawberry cheesecake ice cream is one of the highlights of our summers!

As for me, today definitely ranked higher on the Disney Day meter. It was sunny, warm, and we had my parents over for our annual St. Patrick's Day dinner of corned beef and cabbage (it was a day early, but there was no way I could make it tomorrow since I'll be at work). Lots of laughter and good food with my family -- quite lovely!

[jordanyosh]

MMMMMM....corned beef and cabbage...........

[Charleston Princess]

MMMMMM....corned beef and cabbage...........

It was tasty -- or maybe that was Irish Coffee afterwards :).

[jordanyosh]

It was tasty -- or maybe that was Irish Coffee afterwards :).

Double mmmmmm.........Only a starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte here. Soy, of course.

[carissanboys]

Double mmmmmm.........Only a starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte here. Soy, of course.

Change mine to sugar free and that's what I have :thumbsup2

I'm glad to hear yesterday was a Disney Day for you :goodvibes

[winkers]

Double mmmmmm.........Only a starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte here. Soy, of course.

I'm sure those around you are thankful for the Soy!:lmao:

[winkers]

I'm so glad you all are ok! I've never lived near a torndo zone, so I have no idea what they're like. sounds pretty scary!

My 2 oldest to science olympiad too! My oldest went to reagionals last saturday.

[winkers]

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u248/marcyo56/kissme.gif

[carissanboys]

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u248/marcyo56/kissme.gif

I need me one of those banners! Except...my husband isn't Irish :blush: ;)

[Charleston Princess]

Double mmmmmm.........Only a starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte here. Soy, of course.

That's just as good in my eyes! We finally got a Starbucks in our town about a year ago, and I am still doing the happy dance. :banana: My absolute favorites are Pumpkin Spice Lattes in the fall and Peppermint Mochas in the winter. A Cinnamon Dolce Lattes is my "other seasons" choice.

I'm so glad you all are ok! I've never lived near a torndo zone, so I have no idea what they're like. sounds pretty scary!

My 2 oldest to science olympiad too! My oldest went to reagionals last saturday.

Yeah, I am not liking living in a tornado zone anymore. I am wondering where the safest place weather-wise it would be to move.

Congrats on your two going to Science Olympiad, too! Sadly, we don't have it at the middle school level. I wish we did :(. We still have state to look forward to this year though.

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u248/marcyo56/kissme.gif

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: My husband has a good bit of Irish blood in him -- and an Irish last name to boot. Maybe I will make a button to wear for next year. :rotfl:

[Charleston Princess]

An integral part of every trip that I take is the creation of the Trip Binder. Inside this three-ring binder resides all of the most important information necessary to a wonderful trip. Without it, I have no doubt, my family and I would wander around lost and wasting time.

The first binder for our June trip is pictured below. In my favorite color, pink, she was a faithful holder of all WDW documents. Alas, her petite one-inch size was no match for the amount of information I have amassed for this summer's adventure. She was forced to give up her role. Do not cry for her too much though, she has already found work as the trip binder for our October trip. You will see her again on the next PTR (several months from now).
http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/FirstTripBinder.jpg

Pink Binder's place was usurped by the 1 1/2 inch white three-ring binder this weekend. It boasts a clear front slipcover perfect for displaying a Disney-themed cover page (Natalie's Bag of Tricks on the DISigns board).
http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/TripBinder.jpg

Note the cool spine label for easy spotting on the Disney guidebook bookshelf. (MouseEarsforLife's design :thumbsup2 ).http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/BinderSpine.jpg

Here's a quick peek at the inside of the Trip Binder.
http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/jcmcmahan74/Disney%20Pics/BinderInside.jpg

Up Next: What treasures of trip planning magic reside inside the Trip Binder?

[jordanyosh]

Nice trip binders.....:thumbsup2

You're going to be helping me with my next Binder...he'll be so happy to have a better look.;)

[scottny]

they both look very nice.

sad the old one got tossed aside. :sad2: but glad to see she comes back for october. :rotfl2:

they look great. :thumbsup2