February 15, 2009 4 Nights Disney Wonder

[DVCRon]

Long time DVC members and although we've been to DisneyWorld many, many times this will be our first Disney cruise.

Myself, my DW and my 2 DD who will be 14 and 11 for the cruise. Anyone else joining us?

Ron

[minie_meese]

Our extended family just put our deposit on a land sea package for the 2/15 Wonder. We will have 7 or 8 adults, two 5 yr old girls, a 9 yr old girl and a 2 yr old. Most of us have never cruised before and none of us have been on a Disney cruise. We're not DVC members but many of us have been to DisneyWorld many times. We're all looking forward to expanding our Disney experience.

[SunKat]

We'll be joining you on the 2/15/09 Wonder!! My husband and my daughter (who will be 12 at the time of the cruise) have never cruised before. This will be my second cruise, but the first on DCL for all of us. We are so excited! :yay:

[Mom 3 mouseketeers]

We will be joining you on 2/15/09. All I wanted for my 40th birthday was a Disney Cruise! :banana: I'll be sailing with my DH, 8 DS, 7 DD and 5 DS, plus my parents, brother, his wife and their 4 year old son.

I am so excited that even with it being 11 months away all I do are read the DIS boards.

We are staying on Deck 7.

[SunKat]

We will be joining you on 2/15/09. All I wanted for my 40th birthday was a Disney Cruise! :banana: I'll be sailing with my DH, 8 DS, 7 DD and 5 DS, plus my parents, brother, his wife and their 4 year old son.

I am so excited that even with it being 11 months away all I do are read the DIS boards.

We are staying on Deck 7.

Us too! We booked one of those secret verandah rooms, deck 7, aft.

[DVCRon]

Us too! We booked one of those secret verandah rooms, deck 7, aft.


We are on deck 7 too!

[Mom 3 mouseketeers]

That's so funny that we are all on the same deck! We have a category 5 adjoining cabins since there are five of us. It'll be so nice not to have the kids on tops of us. Plus my parents and brother are in subsequent cabins.

We are hoping to go down to DW a few days before but are not booking a Land/Sea. This trip is to celebrate my 40th birthday and I'm hoping to go all out and stay at the Beach Club.:cool1:

We are from CT and it gets darn cold in February, I need a little sun to get through the rest of the winter.

I read that you can try to make a reservation at Palo 75 days in advance although I know we probably won't be able to, anyone know if you can make reservations at the spa early. I'd really like to get a massage on the beach in Castaway Cay.

[SunKat]

What a way to celebrate your 40th!!!

We're planning on heading down to Orlando on the Thursday before the cruise, doing one park on Friday and then staying in a hotel near the port on Saturday night. I don't know what WDW hotel we'll be staying at yet, but I do love the Beach Club!

I so look forward to escaping the cold here in February. Let's all cross our fingers for perfect weather for our cruise!

Has anyone decided on their excursions? We're still up in the air.....no set plans yet. The dolphin swim looks fun, as does visiting Atlantis. We haven't decided if we want to try Palo on this trip, although the brunch might be an option for us. So many decisions!

[DVCRon]

That's so funny that we are all on the same deck! We have a category 5 adjoining cabins since there are five of us. It'll be so nice not to have the kids on tops of us. Plus my parents and brother are in subsequent cabins.

We are hoping to go down to DW a few days before but are not booking a Land/Sea. This trip is to celebrate my 40th birthday and I'm hoping to go all out and stay at the Beach Club.:cool1:

We are from CT and it gets darn cold in February, I need a little sun to get through the rest of the winter.

I read that you can try to make a reservation at Palo 75 days in advance although I know we probably won't be able to, anyone know if you can make reservations at the spa early. I'd really like to get a massage on the beach in Castaway Cay.

Yes it's quite the coincidence we are all on Deck 7. We are in a Cat5 room too, starboard side. Great way to celebrate an important birthday. Beach Club is great, love the pool there and Beaches and Creams is great too. We usually stay at the BW because that's our home resort for dvc. We were just at the BW last July and did the GF in November. Nice being on the monorail but the EPCOT resorts are the best for us.

We are right across the sound on Long Island so it gets cold here too. I'm very happy the Spring is here.

I think the spa has the same 75 day booking window unless you are a Castaway Club member and then you can book earlier.

[Mom 3 mouseketeers]

Yes it's quite the coincidence we are all on Deck 7. We are in a Cat5 room too, starboard side. Great way to celebrate an important birthday. Beach Club is great, love the pool there and Beaches and Creams is great too. We usually stay at the BW because that's our home resort for dvc. We were just at the BW last July and did the GF in November. Nice being on the monorail but the EPCOT resorts are the best for us.

We are right across the sound on Long Island so it gets cold here too. I'm very happy the Spring is here.

I think the spa has the same 75 day booking window unless you are a Castaway Club member and then you can book earlier.

I'm actually a little bit torn on where to stay at WDW. We've rented points the last couple of years and have stayed at BC and BW. BW was definitely bigger since the studio has a day bed and there are 5 of us. Do any of the BC villas have day beds?

Which would you recommend for a family of 5 with a 8, 7 and 5 year old? We think we are only going to stay 2 nights and then stay at a Port Canaveral (sp) the night before cruise.

The pool at BW is much easier to watch the kids in one place, but BC pool is just so unique!
Any insight would be much appreciated!

[DVCRon]

I'm actually a little bit torn on where to stay at WDW. We've rented points the last couple of years and have stayed at BC and BW. BW was definitely bigger since the studio has a day bed and there are 5 of us. Do any of the BC villas have day beds?

Which would you recommend for a family of 5 with a 8, 7 and 5 year old? We think we are only going to stay 2 nights and then stay at a Port Canaveral (sp) the night before cruise.

The pool at BW is much easier to watch the kids in one place, but BC pool is just so unique!
Any insight would be much appreciated!


We haven't stayed at the Beach Club Villas, only the regular hotel rooms there so I can't answer that question for you from first hand experience but i just checked my 2008/9 DVC Vacation planner and it seems like the BC Studi does have the same setup as BW; a queen size bed and a sofa that opens up into a double bed. Both rooms show on the diagram as sleeping 4 but I guess you could squeeze a 5th on a cot or sleeping bag. On the diagram it seems like the BC studio is larger but I don't know if it is drawn to scale.

When we stay at the BW villas we usually get a one bedroom which has a different setup (King size bed, jacuuzi tub in the master br, and a queen size sleeper sofa in the living room) or if we are with extended family or friends the 2 bedroom which is just the one bedroom with the attached studio. We like the full kitchen and the extra table for breakfast.

The advantages of the BW for us is that we can book it further in advance since it is our "home" resort, the bakery is right outside (great for getting muffins, rolls etc for breakfast), pizza is right there, and you have your choice of Spoodles, Flying Fish, ESPN, Big River Grill and Brewing Works for meals as well as hotdogs,corn dogs cotton candy etc from the vendors. The eateries at BC/YC never did much for me since they closed Ariel's. We didn't care for the food at Yacht Club eateries; The Yachtsman steakhouse or the Yacht Club Galley. We like the BW pool, although there is nothing like the BeachClub pool. The BW pool has a clown slide which would be fine for kids your age if it's warm enough to swim. If they don't like clowns then I'd avoid it. There is a lot of great entertainment on the Boardwalk: mimes, magicians, face painting, etc.

BC does have a great ice cream place in Beaches and Cream and the food is good but hard to find a place to sit and the lines can get very long.

BW has the surrey bike rental pick up and drop off.

The BC Villas are towards the end of the Yacht Club/ Beach Club/ beach Club Villas/ complex so it is probably a little further walk to EPCOT then from BW.
BC is closer to the Swan and Dolphin if you plan to visit there. Both resorts have the ferry which takes you to Disney Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM studios). BC is a shorter ride as BW is always the first stop going there and the last stop coming back.

Since we are talking about February I'd probably rather go to BW as it may not be warm enough to swim and for me, the pool is the main reason to pick the BC over the BW.

That all said, I am sure you will have a great time at either hotel.

[DVCRon]

I found a site which had the sq footage of the studios.

The BC is 6 square feet larger so not much difference.

[mketting]

We'll be a party of 12. 4 kids, 2 boys 6 and 9 and 2 girls 6, 11. We'll be on Deck 6 midship though. We were going to be going in May and had the Secret porthole rooms but with the switch just this week they are all gone.

I see several of you are fellow New Yorkers. Part of our group will be PA and my family is from NY.

[mketting]

Just checking in.

My family just reserved a house for the 4 days before the cruise. My sister's family and parents plans to Disney, my aunt is doing Universal and I haven't decided yet for my family. If anyone is thinking of heading to Orlando early staying at a Villa is a great deal. We got a 5 bedroom, 4 bath home in teh Terra Verde Resort with a heated pool and game room for $720 for 4 nights!! Since there are 4 family groups that comes to just $177 for each family for a 4 night stay.

The bummer is I didn't book the airfare last Tuesday when I was going. I was planning on booking the trip down on Delta because I had a travel voucher and the tickets were just $125 each for one way but when I went to do it on Thursday the price had doubled!!!! I am waiting now hoping that things will settle down and the prices will fall. Anyone who hears of any airlines with good deals let me know.

[Mom 3 mouseketeers]

I am keeping my fingers crossed for Jet Blue. They just posted flights through January 31, 2009 so I'm on the watch for February.

We'd probably fly out of JFK unless the price out of White Plains wasn't too bad.

I'll let you know when they come out!

[mketting]

For excursions in Nassau we plan to do one of the Snorkel and sail trips with our 9 and 11 year olds. My sister plans to rent a room and do the Water Parks at Atlantis with her 6 year old twins.

Trying to decide about Palo. On our last 7 day trip we had a biggert group and we were able to reserve the large private room for both a brunch and a dinner ( and it was spectacular)but with only 4 nights I think I may just try the brunch this time.

[MouseGrandma]

We will be on this cruise, second Presidents' Week in a row. We are DH and myself - married 42 years and won Match Your Mate in Feb. 2008! Joining us on this trip is my sister who has never cruised. She's in a cat 5 on Deck 7 forward port side 7020 and we are in a cat 11 on 7 forward port side in 7009.:dance3:

[minie_meese]

JetBlue finally released their Feb dates. We were able to get the direct flight from Rochester for a reasonable price considering it is winter break. We are flying in on Wednesday and staying at the Polynesian.

[DVCRon]

JetBlue finally released their Feb dates. We were able to get the direct flight from Rochester for a reasonable price considering it is winter break. We are flying in on Wednesday and staying at the Polynesian.


We had been waiting too but they wanted $399/person each way so we went with Southwest. Unfortunately since we waited so long for JB rates to come out the better times with Southwest were taken. I guess we should be happy that at least we got a flight.

Hopefully there are not weather delays that weekend.

[Mom 3 mouseketeers]

I can't believe that the cruise is less than 4 months away. uuuggghhh that must mean I'm almost 40! We haven't booked airfare yet as we might move before we go, so it's either leaving from Denver or NY.

We are booked to stay at the Polynesian the 12-14th and then will head to a hotel at Port Canaveral.

The kids keep asking us how long till the mickey mouse cruise!!
So excited...

Kelly, Matt, DS (8), DD (7) and DS (5)

[jlowejd5]

We're coming back down for our 5-year anniversary and doing the 4-day again. I'll very much be looking forward to doing this without the craziness of the wedding and reception the day before. I think we're flying in on Saturday, doing some DD shopping, and staying at the port on Saturday night. Thursday through Saturday afterwards, we're doing Universal. We did a day at Universal Hollywood when we were out at DL in October, and really enjoyed it. We're at the Royal Pacific at UO.

The weirdest part is that this will be the first time we've not used the Magical Express. I don't even know where Baggage Claim is at MCO. hee hee

Whee!!:dance3:

[minie_meese]

We have a family group with 4 staterooms on this cruise. We're all looking forward to the trip and have been talking about it quite a bit to the little ones who will be with us. Our 2 five year old grand daughters will be on the trip. They are both veterans of Disney World but have never been on a cruise. When I told one of them that Mickey would be on the cruise she got very excited because Mickey is her favorite. She asked me what all of the little kids staying at Disney World would do without Mickey if Mickey was going to be on the cruise. After thinking about it for a few minutes she said the real Mickey would be on the cruise but there would be someone else at Disney World dressed up like Mickey so the kids there wouldn't be disappointed. It just made me smile.

[luvugoofy]

We will also be on the this cruise. Third DCL trip, just DH & DW...starting to feel guilty about leaving kids at home. Maybe some Spa/hot-tub time will make the guilt go away :flower3: Anyway this is a last minute trip and I need to get planning! pirate:

[Mom 3 mouseketeers]

It's getting closer!!! :banana: I was able to book our Palo reservation this morning with no trouble, I was able to book one dinner for the 6 of us plus a brunch just for my husband and I. I was so worried we wouldn't be able to get in.
We also booked Atlantis Aquadventure, was going to do Comfort Suites but for the number of people in our group the cost was not that much different plus now we don't have to worry about getting our own taxi.

Is there anything else I should be booking in advance?

Kelly (**40**), DH (39), DS (8), DD (7), DS (5)

[MCourtney]

Our extended family just put our deposit on a land sea package for the 2/15 Wonder. We will have 7 or 8 adults, two 5 yr old girls, a 9 yr old girl and a 2 yr old. Most of us have never cruised before and none of us have been on a Disney cruise. We're not DVC members but many of us have been to DisneyWorld many times. We're all looking forward to expanding our Disney experience.

Hooray! Our 5 yr. old daughter will be thrilled! We are doing a re-cruise with my inlaws - they were supposed to join us in August but a last minute medical issue prevented them from joining us. Hopefully no issues this trip :goodvibes

[Tneah]

Hi all!

I'm new. This cruise will be our first cruise. I'm excited!:banana:

I have a DS that's 12 and a DD that's 9....oh, and a husband, too! They are very excited....now! At first they were a little scared to go on a cruise. So, I kept putting it off for years. So, I decided the best one to try first would be the DCL:idea: since I'm sure they will have a great time . The day I booked this cruise, the following day my son learned about the adventures of the Titanic! What timing. He is my "mister safety."

We are coming down on the 12th and plan to do Universal Studio and IOA. We been to Disney many times. I just want a change of scenery this time.

BTW, we are from Pa.

[minie_meese]

Time is getting close and we are all getting excited. A few have been on other cruise lines but none of us (11) have every been on a Disney Cruise so we have been watching a lot of podcasts and reading.

Looks like a number of people from NY will be on this cruise. With all the snow we've had so far I hope the weather cooperates for getting away in February.

We are hoping our daughter will be joining us too. We are keeping our fingers crossed. She is a dancer in NYC (and teaches kids gymnastics to earn money). She is trying to get the time off. If she does there will be 12 of us.

I noticed someone from Columbus will be on the cruise too. Our daughter is an OSU grad - go Bucks in the Fiesta Bowl!

[mketting]

HI everyone. Checking back in.

Has anyone read about Fish Extenders on the boards? Take a look and see,Sounds like it could be fun, if anyone is interested I'm game.... my kids would love the delivering as much as the receiving I think. .

IT is cold here in NY and we can't wait to go on the cruise. Last time we went I was on the boards and planning for months but this time have been so busy that the trip just snuck up on me, I cannot believe we leave in just over a month.


My Husband and Son are big Ohio State Fans too

Minie meese... We are from Rochester too

[minie_meese]

We're game with fish extenders too. I think I understand how they work. I am sure our 2 little granddaughters would love it. I am always doing projects with one of them and she especially would find it fun.

[twilight_love]

Hello everyone! I will also be on the cruise on the 15th of Feb. I will be there with my mom, my dad, and my 10 year old sister. I'm 15 myself, almost 16! :banana: This is our first cruise too, and I'm scared and nervous. I'm not too good with meeting new people, and it would be nice to know one teen before I'm on the cruise. Is anyone going on the 15th-18th that will have a teenager? If so, if you could let me know, I would be sooo happy! And maybe I could get in contact with them somehow? Thanks bunches. pirate:

[mketting]

Twilight Love... Sorry we won't have any teens with us. Funny thing is I was talking with my neighbor as I was bringing up this page, she called to tell me I could come over to pick up Book three in the Twilight Series :) I taking it with me on a trip this weekend. I told her I wasn't going to get it until tomorrow because I would be too tempted to start reading tonight and then be up all night!!

Minie Meese I'll send you a Private Message with our cabin # and you do the same hopefully some of the others will check in and want to join us. I'm going to ask my sister if she wants to do it also.

[minie_meese]

We have a few people interested in doing fish extenders on the cruise. Is anyone else interested? If you are not familiar, there are a number of threads that explain them but basically it is an exchange of simple gifts among the people on the cruise who want to participate.

You bring some things to share and a "fish extender" that gets placed outside your door where people can put their gifts.

The fish extender is a small fabric bag (some are very elaborate with multiple pockets and embroidery while others are simple, like a Christmas stocking you picked up at the Dollar Store). You attach the bag to the "fish" next to your stateroom door with ribbon or cord on the day you arrive. The "fish" is used by crew to place memos, letters, etc. for people in the cabin. When you have the fish extender, the crew can use your fish extender instead. There are many pictures of fish extenders on the boards. This is a picture I found taken on a cruise http://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w124/andymanga/Disney%20Cruise%20Christmas%2008/P1030967.jpg

During the cruise you go around and put your gifts in the fish extenders. It is fun (especially for the kids) to return to your cabin and find treasures. Kids also have a good time distributing the gifts and it helps reinforce the idea of sharing.

Some of the things people give and receive include magnets (which you can put on your door), any inexpensive Disney related thing like stickers or pencils that you might find at the Dollar Store, small highlighters (great for navigators), individually wrapped candies, temporary tattoos, pirate eye patches, etc. The idea isn't to be expensive--it is to have fun.

People who participate need to know where to deliver the goodies so if you are interested leave a response here or PM me with your stateroom number(s) and the number of people. I will be happy to coordinate this.

[DVCRon]

Hello everyone! I will also be on the cruise on the 15th of Feb. I will be there with my mom, my dad, and my 10 year old sister. I'm 15 myself, almost 16! :banana: This is our first cruise too, and I'm scared and nervous. I'm not too good with meeting new people, and it would be nice to know one teen before I'm on the cruise. Is anyone going on the 15th-18th that will have a teenager? If so, if you could let me know, I would be sooo happy! And maybe I could get in contact with them somehow? Thanks bunches. pirate:

Hi Twilight:

My daughters will be on the cruise, my older one is a little younger then you (she is 14) and my younger one is 11.

[minie_meese]

Ron -

I see you have some nice camera equipment. I just bought a Canon 24-105 4.0IS for the trip. I also have the XTi body and 3 other Canon lenses that I love. I am looking forward to trying out the new lens.

[DVCRon]

Ron -

I see you have some nice camera equipment. I just bought a Canon 24-105 4.0IS for the trip. I also have the XTi body and 3 other Canon lenses that I love. I am looking forward to trying out the new lens.

Yep, most of it is from my old photo business. I have heard the 24-105 is a nice carry around lens. I hope you enjoy it.

Ron

[Tneah]

mketting,

Hi, I got your PM about Fish Extenders. I couldn't reply since I was required to have at least 10 posts before I could use PM!:confused3 I better start posting!

Yes, I would like to participate, but I would like to go re-read about them again. I will get back to you in a day or so. (i will most likely have to post my answer here)

WOW! I can't believe how quickly this cruise is coming up!

[minie_meese]

Our 2 little ones (5 years) are getting so exited about the cruise. My sister-in-law's 9 yr old grand daughter is excited too. They are all looking forward to delivering the Disney goodies they've been finding at the dollar store to peoples fish extenders.

We are working on our fish extenders. They don't need to be anything fancy. You can make one with some cloth, a scissors and fabric glue if you don't sew. If you have a JoAnn Fabrics near you they have their embroidered iron on Disney patches for $1.49 this week. They can make your fish extender look like it was made by a professional.

[Tneah]

Can you tell me what length I should keep it in? I tried to search for info on fish extenders, but the search feature says that there isn't anything. I'll try again.

[minie_meese]

From what I read a lot of them are 32-36 inches but could be longer. Mine are about 34 inches long and 8 inches wide. There is a huge thread called "Fish Extenders?" on the cruise board. There is a picture with instructions on page 2 of the thread. http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1219607&page=2

Hope this helps

[bxrluv]

:cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: Hi Twilight:

My daughters will be on the cruise, my older one is a little younger then you (she is 14) and my younger one is 11.

Hello! I see that my daughter (Twilight) posted. I'd suggested that she do this. She seems to think she'll be the only one who won't know anybody :blush: She claims to not be good at meeting people yet I've watched her make friends on vacation in minutes. People she still keeps in touch with. I'm sure she'll be fine. I'd just noticed that I'd missed the fact that there was your post way back and that your daughters are so close in age to ours. Are either of your daughters feeling the same? Can't believe it's getting so close!:cool1: I'm sooooo cold!

[DVCRon]

:cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold:

Hello! I see that my daughter (Twilight) posted. I'd suggested that she do this. She seems to think she'll be the only one who won't know anybody :blush: She claims to not be good at meeting people yet I've watched her make friends on vacation in minutes. People she still keeps in touch with. I'm sure she'll be fine. I'd just noticed that I'd missed the fact that there was your post way back and that your daughters are so close in age to ours. Are either of your daughters feeling the same? Can't believe it's getting so close!:cool1: I'm sooooo cold!

My daughters are the same. My older one keeps asking if there will be anyone her age. I'm sure with it being the holiday week there will be plenty of kids their ages.

[jlowejd5]

I'll say this, with the way the weather has been here in Ohio the last three weeks, I am REALLY glad we decided to fly down the day before.

Does anybody know where the form is to indicate that we've had enough single-digit temperatures? I'd sure like to get that filled out and turned in...:sad2:

[minie_meese]

Does anybody know where the form is to indicate that we've had enough single-digit temperatures? I'd sure like to get that filled out and turned in.

I second your sentiments. Upstate NY has been in the single digits for much of the past week. Today's 22 degrees feels almost like a heat wave. We're all so looking forward to getting out of the cold. We have a group of 12. Everyone but my daughter heads down the Wednesday before and she leaves from NYC on Friday. We're all on direct flights.

Over the weekend my 5 yr old granddaughters and I finished out "fish extenders". It was a lot of fun and she had a great time doing it. It certainly got her in the mood. I think it will be hard to contain her until we leave. Here is one of our "fish extenders"
http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x140/minie_meese/2009%20Land%20Sea/IMG_8779.jpg

[Mom 3 mouseketeers]

I can't believe how close it is getting to the cruise. I am beside myself with excitement. We are totally in for fish extenders, I sent a pm to mkeeting I believe with our info.
We are flying in late Wednesday and staying the Grand Floridian for several days before the cruise. I'm not sure who's more excited me or the kids??? Always a kid at heart when it comes to Disney right???? My group will consist of me, DH, DS (8 1/2), DD (7), DS (5), my brother, sister and law, nephew (4) and my parents. Anyone with kids similar ages?
I know a lot of us are from the northeast and all I gotta say is this winter stinks!!! I don't care if it's not really warm cause anything ovr 40 degrees will be better than this!!!!

[bxrluv]

:wave2: Our family would like to participate in the FE now that I know what they are. I guess I can't pm yet since I haven't had enough posts. Anyway, we have the two girls ages 10 and 15. We're in room 5020. So we'll need to get a list of everyone else participating closer to the date right? We're leaving 2/8 for our land portion but I see some other people are too so hopefully it will all be wrapped up by then. :hourglass Let me know if I can do anything to help!

[Tneah]

Count us in the FE.

It's DH, ME:lmao: and DS (12), DD (9). Stateroom 6551.


I'm ready for warmer weather. The day we arrival back from Fl., we come home and pack ASAP to head out to the Poconos for the long ski weekend with 9 families from the neighborhood. What a temperture shock this will be.

[minie_meese]

My 9 yr old niece will be with us and we are just down the hall from you. I think she and her grandmother are in 6580. We have 5 staterooms right near each other. We also have 2 girls who are 5 yrs and a 2 yr old boy. This is the first Disney cruise for all of them.

We're back in the deep freeze here in NY and can hardly wait for some nice weather - just 3 weeks away!

[bxrluv]

minie meese & mketting: I can't pm and we do want to do the FE too so can you fill me in here or pm me if there is anything specific we need to do please? My kids are excited about this :hyper: I've already been picking up items as I find them to bring along. Thanks much!;)

[minie_meese]

I'm new to this FE thing too. This is our first cruise so we're all learning as we go.

It looks to me like a number of people want to do this. I think there are 16 kids. From what I can tell right now (mketting may have more names) here is who I think wants to participate so far - anyone else is welcome to join

Minie_meese (me) 6580, 6583, 6585 - 5 adults and 2 girls (5)
My sister-in-law 6578, 6582 - 3 adults and a boy (2), a girl (9)
mketting - 6041 - 2 adults and 2 kids, boy (9), girl(11)
mketting sister-in-law - 6042 - 2 adults and 2 kids, boys (6) girls (6)
bxrluv - deck 5 - 2 adults, girls (10), (15)
tneah - Room 6551 - 2 adults, boy (12), girl (9)
mom_3_mousketeers - 7080 - 2 adults, boys (8) (5), girl (7)

Please correct me if I made a mistake

I ordered a few things from Oriental Trading and picked up some things from the dollar store. Most of it will be things for the kids but there are a few things adults may enjoy. You can bring things to put in people's FEs one or more times during the cruise. My little granddaughter is making valentines for all of the kids (or she hopes to) since she is missing valentine's day at school.

Keep it simple, inexpensive and informal. I am sure the kids will all enjoy it.

I think I have a lot of the rooms numbers and can post them in a day or so. As I mentioned earlier if anyone else wants to participate we will add them too.

Hope this helps. Hope to get to meet some of you in person on the cruise.

[Tneah]

[QUOTE=
I ordered a few things from Oriental Trading and picked up some things from the dollar store. Most of it will be things for the kids but there are a few things adults may enjoy. You can bring things to put in people's FEs one or more times during the cruise. My little granddaughter is making valentines for all of the kids (or she hopes to) since she is missing valentine's day at school.

[/QUOTE]

I think this is a great idea! We will do this, too. My daughter will be making one of the surprises, but I'll keep that a secret for now.


I think we should try to meet somewhere on the first day/night. Most of us seem to be from up North. We've got Ohio, NY and Pa covered. Any others?

[bxrluv]

:flower3: Thanks for figuring that out! Love Oriental Trading Co! We probably ordered some of the same things. Looking forward to meeting some other cold northerners :wave2:

[jlowejd5]

And with the weather they're predicting for the next 48 hours here, oh, man am I looking forward to the cruise....

Let's see, highs in the teens, 6-8 inches of snow. Or, DCL. Hmmm... which will I choose?

[Mom 3 mouseketeers]

This weather is getting ridiculous!!! I can't stand to even leave the house not to mention I don't even feel warm in the house! If I could blink my eyes and it would be time for the cruise I would be a happy camper. But just knowing that it's only 20 days away, wait did I just say 20 DAYS AWAY!!! I better start packing!!!! :cool1:
We are all so excited! Are we going to try and all meet on the cruise?

[Tneah]

I have a question.

What if our statroom is changed from what is listed under the group doing the fish extenders?


I can't wait to get out this cold climate!

The countdown begins!

[MCourtney]

Hi everyone. I just posted this on the main page too. I saw on the news this am (how did I not know this) that the Daytona 500 is on 2/15. For those of you non-Floridans let me just tell you that NASCAR is huge here. This is huge race. Daytona is just north of Cocoa Beach on I-95. So I've posted the "how bad is traffic going to be" question. The race offically starts at 3:30pm. Just wanted to give a head's up to anyone who is driving over that morning - especially I-95. :crowded:

Now if we could just get the shuttle take off to be postponed until that afternoon..... how awesome would that be to see it take off as we sail away???? :)

[mketting]

Hello everyone!

We are sick of the snow and cold here too. We had about a foot of snow yesterday! I just wasn't up to clearing the driveway when I got home from work and I knew my husband wouldn't be either so when I heard a neighbors driveway being done by a plow guy I bolted out of the house and asked if he would do ours too. $15 and 5 minutes later we had a clear driveway, that was the best money I've spent in awhile

So glad more of you have jumped on the Fish Extender Band Wagon. Thank you Minnie Meese for getting it all organized!!

[Tneah]

Well, the countdown begins for all us! Wow, I have so much to do.

Mini meese, thanks for organizing the FE list. I just noticed the picture of your FE, it looks great!

[Mom 3 mouseketeers]

I'm so excited I don't know what to do with myself. Started going through the kids clothes today. Will hopefully get a lot done next week while they are at school. We are going to Chicago next weekend so I only have 3 days to unpack from that and pack for Florida. We leave the evening of the 11th and will be at the Grand Floridian before the cruise.
Been picking up cute things for Fish Extenders, trying to explain it to the kids. Anyone ever been told what their dining rotation was before they boarded? We made reservations at Palo for Monday night, heard Pirate night is the 3rd but don't want to miss eating Tritons menu. Oh well can't plan for everything!
Been checking the weather everyday, I'm just hoping for above 60 and I'll be happy, it'll feel like a heat wave compared to Connecticut!

Kelly

[minie_meese]

We can hardly wait to leave too. This snow thing is just too old. I was in Boston all week and they have a lot of snow too. It rained a lot on Wednesday and then froze at night. People were falling all over. Get me out of here.

Here is the list of people participating in the Fish Extenders - this is a last call for anyone else. We would love to have you. You can do 1 day or more, just kids or put a few things in for the adults. Keep it as simple as you like. I want to see it be a fun for everyone.

BXRLV - we still need your stateroom number.
Everyone else - please let me know if anything needs updating.

Minie_meese (me) 6580, 6583, 6585 - 5 adults and 2 girls (5)
Minie_meese sister-in-law 6578, 6582 - 3 adults and a boy (2), a girl (9)
mketting - 6041 - 2 adults and 2 kids, boy (9), girl(11)
mketting sister-in-law - 6042 - 2 adults and 2 kids, boys (6) girls (6)
bxrluv - deck 5 - 2 adults, girls (10), (15)
tneah - Room 6551 - 2 adults, boy (12), girl (9)
mom_3_mousketeers - 7080 - 2 adults, boys (8) (5), girl (7)

[mketting]

Can't wait to go too. We were originally going in May, so glad we changed it.

Has anyone gotten any more word on traffic on Sunday? I am one of those people who like to be at the port the minute it opens. On our previous two Disney cruises we arrived early and were able to be some of the first to board after the CAT 1 and 2 people. It is great to have lunch and let the kids head into the pools to swim for awhile that first day before the ship fills up.

I would recommend Parrot Cay for lunch, we have done both locations now and other than eating outside it was a much nicer experience having lunch in Parrot Cay and then heading upstairs for the kids to swim and relax on deck.

My sister is taking her kids to WDW for the 4 days before cruise but the kids don't know it. I wish I was going to be there to see their reaction Wednesday morning when they arrive at the Magic Kingdom . We will enjoy some relaxation and some time with my DH's sister who lives in Orlando before the cruise as well as day at Animal Kingdom with my sister and parents.

My daughter and I started getting out clothes a week or so ago, my husband thought we were crazy but packing and getting stuff ready is part of the fun for me ( I hate the unpacking after a trip though!!), plus my kids have both grown a ton since last summer and I needed to figure out what things they need for the trip. My son is royally annoyed that at the moment he has the boxes of summer clothes sitting out in his room.

[lovinlife]

Hi All, :wave2: also looking very forward to the Wonder on the 15th. I also started putting things together to pack days ago.:cool1: It's been fun getting ready early, all except for trying on the bathing suits ugh:scared: scary! It's freezing here on L.I., I'm so tired of this winter already, def. ready to enjoy fun in paradise!:cheer2: I have a question about Daytona race, not being familiar with Fla. traffic, etc. I'm having a car :drive: (happy limo) pick us up at Boardwalk Villas at 10 am on the 15th. Will we be hitting race traffic as well? Should we change our pick up time? Any advice is appreciated.:flower3:

[minie_meese]

We've been starting to pack stuff for a week or so. Anything to help us look forward to getting out of this deep freeze. This winter has been too much here in the north east. Keeping my fingers crossed that the weather doesn't impact anybody's departure.

As for the Daytona race. We are using Happy Limo too. I am sure there will be traffic but the main route from Orlando to Daytona is Rte 4. 528 (Beach Line or Bee Line Expressway is the route from Orlando to the port which is considerable south of rte 4. I am guessing the traffic will be close to rte 95 and 528. If anyone from Florida has suggestions I'd love to hear from you too.


I travel a lot so I don't want the mad dash at the end to pack and forget things. We found that some of my granddaughters lighter clothes from last summer don't fit, so we too the opportunity to make some Disney "resort wear". Tye dye is a messy thing inside but it was fun and the little ones got to help some which is adding to their anticipation. I found some neat iron on designs that I could modify on the Dis Creative DISigns board. We also made a shirt for my daughter who is an OSU grad. Here is what we did

http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x140/minie_meese/2009%20Land%20Sea/IMG_8786.jpg

http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x140/minie_meese/2009%20Land%20Sea/IMG_8788.jpg

http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x140/minie_meese/2009%20Land%20Sea/IMG_8781.jpg

[mketting]

Those shirts are great my son would love the Ohio state one.

We're heading out to JoAnn ETC. to get our materials for the fish extender and the sun is actually shining today! It is almost blinding though as it reflects off all the snow.

[Mom 3 mouseketeers]

So funny we are using Happy Limo as well. They are picking us up at 10:30 so hopefully we get there by 12. I'm hoping since we are going west to east we don't run into much traffic, especially that early. I'll keep my fingers crossed!

Can't believe tomorrow is February and 2 weeks till we set sail!!:cheer2:

[lovinlife]

I just spoke with DCL & Happy Limo. DCL says that as of now the buses are still on same schedule and they think we'll be fine leaving at 10am. Happy Limo said we may hit a little bit of traffic maybe 10 minutes or so (hopefully) because different main roads are used. When I asked if we should change the time she said she would leave it because the drivers may be running a little late anyway due to getting people from prev. cruise and the whole Daytona thing. Just thought I'd share....:flower3: See you all on board :wave2:

[mketting]

Thanks for the word on the traffic.

We got our fish extender all done. I don't sew so I had to use Fuse tape but it came out really awesome, we made our in DCL colors with a nautical theme. I just hope it holds up:scratchin

[bxrluv]

:rotfl2: We're using Happy Limo too! And we're also leaving at 10am. Got our pre-made FE online. One of the shoe holder type things on Disney Outlet for $5.99. Am not crafty at all. I tell the other roomparents that they can be in charge of that and I'll do everything else. Hey, it's up in the 40's today :beach: I can go outside and work on my pre-vacation tan...

[jlowejd5]

1. Love the OSU shirt. Got my JD there in '99. I am constantly amazed at how many people we always see, either on the ship or at the parks, wearing Buckeye gear. I know not all of them are alums, but it's still strange to see them EVERYwhere.

2. Is it possible to be super-excited for and completely angry at one of your best friends at the same time? We're settling in with our house full of people to watch the Super Bowl tonight, and I get a text from my friend Michael in Cleveland (he and his sister are our most best good Disney traveling companions). He says hey, the way my schedule at work goes, I have six straight days off starting Friday. I say "Great, when will you be here for an extended visit?"

He says "oh, no. Aunt Bobo just booked she and I a quick six-day trip to Disney World!!!"

AAAAuuuggghhh!!!

I mean, I know I'm leaving in like eleven days to go on my own, but I am SOOOOOOOOO jealous!!

[minie_meese]

bxrluv - I still need your stateroom number - we all need to know where to bring your goodies. Great deal on the FEs.

It got up to 40 degrees here yesterday. It felt like a heat wave.


I am constantly amazed at how many people we always see, either on the ship or at the parks, wearing Buckeye gear. I know not all of them are alums, but it's still strange to see them EVERYwhere

I know what you mean. We see them everywhere in DisneyWorld too. Buckeyes love their sports, especially football. During college football season we have an OSU flag hanging on our porch as does a neighbor a block away. They are the only college flags on the street.

[bxrluv]

Sorry, I just saw your pm. I just sent you an email but it's for everyone to see. #5020. Again, thanks for organizing this:cheer2:

[minie_meese]

This is our FE list with everyone's state rooms. If there are changes make sure to let people know.
Minie_meese (me) 6580, 6583, 6585 - 5 adults and 2 girls (5)
Minie_meese sister-in-law 6578, 6582 - 3 adults and a boy (2), a girl (9)
mketting - 6041 - 2 adults and 2 kids, boy (9), girl(11)
mketting sister-in-law - 6042 - 2 adults and 2 kids, boys (6) girls (6)
bxrluv - 5020 - 2 adults, girls (10), (15)
tneah - 6551 - 2 adults, boy (12), girl (9)
mom_3_mousketeers - 7080 - 2 adults, boys (8) (5), girl (7)

Hope to get to see many of you who posted on the board on the cruise. Looking forward to a great trip.

Elaine

[Mom 3 mouseketeers]

I cannot believe that one week for tomorrow is the beginning of our trip. :cool1: As it is snowing AGAIN I am going to start counting minutes and not days.
I think I am all set for Fish Extenders, picked up so cute things and waiting for a shipment from Oriental Trading!::yes::

Got our cruise documents with luggage tags, makes it just a little more real!

[Tneah]

Just a few more days before we leave.:hourglass We haven't packed, but it's all in my head. I work best under pressure.

Just a question about the FE. Do we need to write what stateroom the gifts came from or do we just put them in?

How long is the size of the rope or string you used for the FE?

I am so excited! I need a vacation.

[jlowejd5]

I started the packing list today. DW went clothes shopping last night. I'm bringing the suitcases up out of the basement on Saturday, along with that last-minute "do we have enough sunscreen" shopping trip on.

Man, next week is going to drrrraaaaaaggggg....:hourglass :bored: :bored: :bored:

[minie_meese]

Do we need to write what stateroom the gifts came from or do we just put them in?

We never said so if you want to please do. We probably will label ours with our name or room number.


How long is the size of the rope or string you used for the FE?


I thought I read somewhere that they should hang down 12 inches or so but I am not sure. I have mine tied to about that size but I left a lot of slack on it so I can ajust when we get there if needed.


I am so excited! I need a vacation

I feel the same

We started our packing today. We leave on Wednesday and can hardly wait.

[mketting]

Almost there!! We leave Wed. too 6:10 AM, but that morning it will be easy to get up!!

Tomorrow is packing day!

The weather in Orlando looks to be very nice Wed. - Fri!!! anything will be better than snow though.

[jlowejd5]

He says "oh, no. Aunt Bobo just booked she and I a quick six-day trip to Disney World!!!"

AAAAuuuggghhh!!!

I mean, I know I'm leaving in like eleven days to go on my own, but I am SOOOOOOOOO jealous!!

So, last night he sends me a beautiful picture of the moon over the EPCOT golf ball. Tonight it was the Castle all lit up. It's actually nice, becuase it's getting me psyched for the cruise.

LESS THAN A WEEK!!!

[DVCRon]

Almost there! Hope everyone has a safe trip down and a great cruise!!

[lovelyk68]

Just found this thread and wanted to say hello!:wave2: Our family will be on this cruise as well. We have 2 kids: DD, 8 and DS, 12. This is our first Disney Cruise and we are definitely looking forward to getting away from snow and grey skies. Hope to see some of you around!

[Mom 3 mouseketeers]

:cool1: I can not believe that we are leaving tomorrow. Started packing and so far have the 2 boys taken care of (and my FE gifts). Can't believe the temperatures are going to be in the 70's & 80's (who cares about an isolated thunderstorm)!
We are staying the Orlando Hyatt in the airport tomorrow night and then head out to the Grand Floridian! Hoping to get some pool time and just breath in the WARM air!
See you all on the boat!

[jlowejd5]

At this point (93 hours until the plane leaves), all I can say is:

:hyper: :hyper: :hyper: :hyper: :jumping1:

[Tneah]

Just found this thread and wanted to say hello!:wave2: Our family will be on this cruise as well. We have 2 kids: DD, 8 and DS, 12. This is our first Disney Cruise and we are definitely looking forward to getting away from snow and grey skies. Hope to see some of you around!

Welcome! I have DD that's 9, and a DS that's 12. It is also our first cruise.


I wish you all a safe trip! See you down there!!!!!!

[bgirl]

Hi all!
I'm writing from the BCV. DH and DD 12 came down Wed. night and i joined them last night after work. We are leaving here Sunday with Happy Limo too. we might rethink our travel time. It seems there are a bunch of girls ages 9-15 sailing, which is great for my DD, 12 but i was just wondering if your tweens are going to sign up fo the Oceaneers Lab, I'm concerned that my DD will not connect with anyone. The FE sounds like a great way for them to connect, but I don't know if I could pull something together by tomorrow...if only there were a 99cent store in DD!!!!!
I also forgot aboutpirate: night, we have so much stuff (at home)from our last cruise, oh well I guess we can always use some new eye patches and bandanas!

[DVCRon]

Hi all!
I'm writing from the BCV. DH and DD 12 came down Wed. night and i joined them last night after work. We are leaving here Sunday with Happy Limo too. we might rethink our travel time. It seems there are a bunch of girls ages 9-15 sailing, which is great for my DD, 12 but i was just wondering if your tweens are going to sign up fo the Oceaneers Lab, I'm concerned that my DD will not connect with anyone. The FE sounds like a great way for them to connect, but I don't know if I could pull something together by tomorrow...if only there were a 99cent store in DD!!!!!
I also forgot aboutpirate: night, we have so much stuff (at home)from our last cruise, oh well I guess we can always use some new eye patches and bandanas!

Bgirl:

My younger one is 11, almost 12 and is signed up for the Lab. With all the kids on board I am sure she will make a few friends. We are from the Island too. We are leaving for the aiport in a few minutes. See ya onboard! :)