2006 DVC Member Cruise - SSMC06 - October 22, 2006 Part 6

[cgcw]

Which is the best route to take - go through Chicago or take 294 around the outside of the city?

We are going to leave about 1 PM (EST). This should get us to the south end of Chicago about 4PM (Chicago time) barring any slow ups due to weather.

Gary's telling me you want to take 294 and to NOT go through Chicago. The hotel in right off of 294 --- as a landmark, look for signs for the Rosemont Theatre. They will direct you off of the highway.

Maybe Mark will pop in with directions. If not, I'll make sure that Gary posts some tonight.

[MarkRG]

I should have posted some driving directions before now.

To get to the hotel from MI: Take 294 north to the River road exit. You'll go under an Oasis and then the O'hare Airport will be on your left as you're approaching the exit. Follow the overhead signs, the exit ramp is on the right. You want to go fractionally south on River road, it is a right turn after you exit the highway. The hotel will also be on your right. Do NOT take I 94 thru the city. The Dan Ryan, the section of 94 that is south of downtown, is under a multi year reconstruction and there are lane closures.


If you're going to Archiver's: Head north on River road which is a left turn onto River out of the parking structure, go north to Golf road, turn right. Stay in the right lane. When it opens to three lanes, stay right. Make a right turn onto Milwaukee Avenue, immediately get in the left lane and make a left turn at the first light, and then right once you're in the parking lot. Archiver's is right in front of you. :)

To get to the pizza place, it's on Higgins, which crosses River a bit north of the hotel. Coming from the hotel, a left turn, from Archiver's a right. Down about a mile or so. I'll dig up that map and repost it later today.

[MarkRG]

Gary's telling me you want to take 294 and to NOT go through Chicago. The hotel in right off of 294 --- as a landmark, look for signs for the Rosemont Theatre. They will direct you off of the highway.

Maybe Mark will pop in with directions. If not, I'll make sure that Gary posts some tonight.

I was typing, proofreading and such while you were posting :p

[gometros]

Safe travels for all you folks headed to Chicago. I was watching GMA this morning and it looks like it's going to messy in the midwest.

[cgcw]

I was typing, proofreading and such while you were posting :p

I knew you would come through!! After all, you saw how much I paid attention on our drive to and from Michigan. :)

[MarkRG]

Ok, updates:

Here's the map to lunch at Gino's Pizza again. (click here) (http://www.wdwinfo.com/photopost/data/500/36347dismeetmap.jpg)

The hotel's just off the bottom right on River road, the restaurant is up on the top left on Higgins where the green highlighter is.

Now, for the weather. We're starting to see some spotty snowfall on radar.

http://www.wunderground.com/radar/mixedcomposite.asp?region=b3&size=2x&type=loop

This is a slightly different radar, as it shows where the real snowfall is happening. I'm still a bit doubtful we're going to get that dumped on. If you look there's a faint line of the back of the front going diagonally from Milwaukee to just above the K in Kansas City. As that line sweeps east following the warm edge of the front, the snow is sweeping up from the sw, it's just going to be a matter if any real amounts form up in our area before the front moves east. Sofar, the substantial stuff is staying south of KC. Let's hope it doesn't move quick enough north.

[tinkerbelle77]

Which is the best route to take - go through Chicago or take 294 around the outside of the city?

We are going to leave about 1 PM (EST). This should get us to the south end of Chicago about 4PM (Chicago time) barring any slow ups due to weather.
I would take 294 around the city...its Friday, and the traffic is awful in the city...especially...90/94. There is always traffic there. We are heading downtown early tomorrow to avoid the traffic!

[tinkerbelle77]

Safe travels to all traveling to Chicago...the weather looks very messy!! See everyone Saturday afternoon!

[Garfield]

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
Just like the ones I used to know
Where the treetops glisten,
and children listen
To hear sleigh bells in the snow

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
With every Christmas card I write
May your days be merry and bright
And may all your Christmases be white

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
With every Christmas card I write
May your days be merry and bright
And may all your Christmases be white

[fireplug]

Yes indeed the advisory has been cancelled!

Thats because the WINTER STORM WARNING is now in effect!

WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 3 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO
12 PM CST FRIDAY.
.WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 3 PM CST THIS
AFTERNOON.

THE NATL WEATHER SVC IN CHICAGO HAS ISSUED A WINTER STORM
WARNING.WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM 3 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO 12 PM
CST FRIDAY. THE WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IS NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL
3 PM CST THIS AFTERNOON. THE WINTER STORM WATCH IS NO LONGER IN
EFFECT.

LIGHT RAIN EARLY THIS MORNING.MAY MIX WITH LIGHT FREEZING
RAIN.SLEET OR SNOW LATER THIS MORNING & THIS AFTERNOON.
AMOUNTS ARE EXPECTED TO BE LIGHT.BUT MAY CAUSE SOME SLICK
SPOTS ON ROADS & BRIDGES.

SNOW IS EXPECTED TO DEVELOP LATE THIS AFTERNOON & THIS EVENING
AND CONTINUE INTO FRI MORNING. THE SNOW MAY BE HEAVY AT TIMES
WITH SNOWFALL RATES OF 1 TO 2 INCHES PER HOUR AT THE HEIGHT OF THE
STORM. EXACT STORM TOTAL SNOWFALL AMOUNTS WILL VARY.BUT CURRENT
INFORMATION SUGGESTS 6 TO 10 INCHES OF SNOW WILL BE POSSIBLE BY
BY NOON FRIDAY.WITH ISOLATED AMOUNTS AS HIGH AS ONE FOOT.

THE SNOW MAY MIX WITH SLEET OR FREEZING RAIN OVERNIGHT. IF THIS
OCCURS.EXPECTED SNOWFALL AMOUNTS WILL BE LESS.

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW.
SLEET.& ICE ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG WINDS ARE ALSO
POSSIBLE. THIS WILL MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY MEANS THAT PERIODS OF SNOW.SLEET.OR
FREEZING RAIN WILL CAUSE TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE PREPARED FOR
SLIPPERY ROADS & LIMITED VISIBILITIES.& USE CAUTION WHILE
DRIVING.

This is for my county. I am about 70 miles south of where Cindy lives. They really think more snow will come our way then farther north.

Oh well the garden tractor has the snow blade on, the tire chains on, the gas tank full, and the battery charging!

And you know what they say

" when the going gets tough, the tough go to HOOTERS"

YUP calendar girl signing today so we are driving to a nearby HOOTERS to get calendars signed and PICS taken! We are taking my manly Avalanche and DAMN the snow full speed ahead! HOPEFULLY I will post some pics tomorrow some time!

SQuid

[Copper3]

Safe travels to those going to Chicago.

[cgcw]

This is for my county. I am about 70 miles south of where Cindy lives. They really think more snow will come our way then farther north.


I agree with you Steve. It seems like we get a dusting here and you get 2' of snow by you. Same goes usually for rainfall.

Good thing is that no one is coming from way south where you are. Tina has a drive from that area, but I'm betting it's mostly highway for you, Tina, right?

Let's hope it all misses us. What a difference from last weekend when it was in the 60's around here and beautiful.

Everyone take it slow and stay safe.



Steve, have fun at Hooters.

["Got Disney"]

ATTENTION!!!!! ATTENTION!!!!

Come one come all and bring your pom poms to the most
faaaabulos Teams of all :

THE "CRUISE TEAM" and "THE REWARDS AND RUMORS TEAM"

So come ROCK the BOAT cause RUMOR has it.....
there are REWARDS to be had for cheering along :thumbsup2


Hello everyone...we are looking for more cheerleaders for the
EXTREME WPASADI game..You ask..What is a WPASADI game...well if you come cheer you can win prizes and have lots of fun!! here is a link to come and see...we need your cheers ...for these 2 teams!!

here is your link come on and cheer with us!!!
http://www.disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?f=150
__________________

[#1Mouse]

I'm thinking we might have some bad driving on the western part of Michigan and past the lake and Chicago, but once we get headed north it should be fine. If it's slippery, we'll drive slow, but we will be there!

We were going to leave about 3 PM, then I moved it back to 2 PM. I might just move it back to 12:30, that way Deanna will only miss 2 classes and lunch hour. Do you think Deanna will mind if I take her out of her last two classes? :rotfl:

[cgcw]

I'm thinking we might have some bad driving on the western part of Michigan and past the lake and Chicago, but once we get headed north it should be fine. If it's slippery, we'll drive slow, but we will be there!

We were going to leave about 3 PM, then I moved it back to 2 PM. I might just move it back to 12:30, that way Deanna will only miss 2 classes and lunch hour. Do you think Deanna will mind if I take her out of her last two classes? :rotfl:

Gail, if you want to call me on your way, I'll update you with the conditions in this area. Just don't plan to talk my ear off, okay? ;) :rotfl2:

[MarkRG]

2pm update:

It really looks like it's going south. The advisory has been moved from 3pm to midnight now, they've also lowered the total accumulation from the morning's 6-12 inches down to 5 to 9 inches. I fully expect them to lower it further before the end of the day.

Here's the current radar: http://www.wunderground.com/radar/mixedcomposite.asp?region=b3&size=2x&type=loop

The front continues to bow south and east, and that swirl of snow down in Kansas simply hasn't moved much all day. If the front continues to move on the north end when the snow does start tracking along it, it could miss the Chicago area completely. Although I think we might see some light scattered for sure, maybe even a bit of substantial snow by morning.

Can you tell I'm not a huge fan of computer projections? Their 'models' have as much intelligence sometimes as some of the ones on America's Top Model.

Gail, one thing the Illinois tollway is efficient about is plowing. If we get any substantial amounts of snow the roads will be clear in no time flat. I'd say your guess is going to be on, even if the roads arn't poor, the traffic will be slow in the Indiana corridor just because it has snowed. 80/94 bunches up at the drop of a hat.

Everyone heading around tomorrow, be careful, 1st snows in the Chicago area tend to be messy even if it turns out to be nothing.

[fireplug]

Despite the winter weather approaching there is a BRIGHT spot!

November 30th ends the hurricane season in the Atlantic Basin!

Squid

[okwdreamin]

and that swirl of snow down in Kansas simply hasn't moved much all day.

I can vouch for that! ::yes:: It was 72 degrees on Monday and Tuesday, and today we're getting 12" of snow and sleet. They closed the schools this morning before it even started snowing! :faint: They closed my office at noon, thank goodness.
Safe travels for all going to Chicago tomorrow!! pixiedust:
Cheryl, glad you are feeling better! Take care. pixiedust:

[#1Mouse]

Gail, if you want to call me on your way, I'll update you with the conditions in this area. Just don't plan to talk my ear off, okay? ;) :rotfl2:

I'll be on my cell phone and between John and I we only get 1000 minutes a month! :chat:

[#1Mouse]

Thanks to everyone for the weather updates. My biggest concern is the western area of Michigan and Indiana. I think once we get passed that section it should be ok.

I liked the 65 temps we had yesterday a whole better :sunny:

[#1Mouse]

I can vouch for that! ::yes:: It was 72 degrees on Monday and Tuesday, and today we're getting 12" of snow and sleet. They closed the schools this morning before it even started snowing! :faint: They closed my office at noon, thank goodness.
Safe travels for all going to Chicago tomorrow!! pixiedust:
Cheryl, glad you are feeling better! Take care. pixiedust:

Yuck, what a way to start out the winter season - with 12" of snow and sleet. Make a cup of hot chocolate and stay inside :thumbsup2 It could be a looooong winter!

[MarkRG]

Sorry to hear it's being rough on you Marla. I've friends in Salt Lake, they had the mess yesterday.

5pm update:

Welp, the snow front has finally organized and Chicago will see some snow.

Here's the local loop. http://www.wunderground.com/radar/mixedcomposite.asp?region=b3&size=2x&type=loop

It's definitely forming up, but it still doesn't appear to have the strength up north it had earlier today or yesterday. The only part that concerns me right now is that pink spot in the middle of the white just northeast of St Louis. That is focused, very heavy snow, and depending on how it follows the front may be very rough.

[okwdreamin]

Yuck, what a way to start out the winter season - with 12" of snow and sleet. Make a cup of hot chocolate and stay inside :thumbsup2 It could be a looooong winter!

Instead of going to see DS's high school musical "Fiddler on the Roof" tonight (he is just part of the stage crew), it's perfect weather to put up the Christmas tree. Hot chocolate is a wonderful idea!! Yum! ;)

It doesn't look (to me) that we are going to get the 12" they predicted, we have 6" so far and the snow has lightened up. Earlier today was just a blizzard, with heavy snow and strong winds. Yuck!

[tinkerbelle77]

Well the rain and snow mix has started on the south side...I am at Tims house now (near midway), and its coming down pretty good...When I left home it was pretty clear until I hit the end of 355 @ 55, and the mix started. We are in the house safe and sound, and staying til morning!

Tonight was Krystina's musical at school...she was supposed to be in the choir, and not have any individual parts, but another child didnt show up, and 10 min before the performance she stepped up to take the part of a hula snowwoman, with a few speaking lines...she did great!!! Didnt forget anything for just learning the part 10 mins before the show! I am so proud of her!!

And on another note, I have been in a haze this week, I have a sinus infection that has me feeling like I'm in an echo chamber at time...So I havent been all with it...I just today decided to look and see where the theater that the Blue Man Group is at...Guess what not Downtown at all...Its near the north side of the city and Lincoln park area...Tim and I talked and I had some Marriott Reward points, so we used them at the Marriott O'hare on River Rd for Friday and Saturday nights!! So we are going to drive over @ 2 or 3, and then have dinner and go to the show...I also found out there is another performance @ 10, so I'm assuming the show will be over by 830 or 9, and we will be back in the O'hare area by 9 or 930...If anyone is interested in hanging out, or going out for a few drinks, we would be up for that!!!

Safe travels to all traveling to Chicago, and for those not, be safe where ever you are!!

[ohiominnie]

Hey all!
We're at the world! :) Tried to post from Mike's blackberry before, but I don't think it went through. Mike had to post a Pediacast so I get to use the laptop this time! No time to catch up, but just wanted to say hello!

Weather has been nice here. Warming up nicely. A bit of rain (we have 4 more Mickey ponchos now!) but we're working around it.

Have tried some new things this trip. O'hana for dinner (loved it) Boma for dinner (would have gone away hungry if not for the desserts!) Doing lots of pin trading. Crowds are light.

Will try to check in again, but if not, I'll catch ya'll when I get home. :)

[RRBB]

Tonight was Krystina's musical at school...she was supposed to be in the choir, and not have any individual parts, but another child didnt show up, and 10 min before the performance she stepped up to take the part of a hula snowwoman, with a few speaking lines...she did great!!! Didnt forget anything for just learning the part 10 mins before the show! I am so proud of her!!Way to go Krystina. I'm sure you were (still are) beaming Tina.

Everyone travelling to the Chicago meet, take it easy and be safe! Oh, and have a great time. Sure wish we could meet up with y'all.

[dvcChrisVWL]

So, it finally got warm enough that we had to close all the windows and turn on the air conditioner. 80 degrees in the house is a bit much. :sunny:

How's the weather where everyone else is at?

[tinkerbelle77]

So, it finally got warm enough that we had to close all the windows and turn on the air conditioner. 80 degrees in the house is a bit much. :sunny:

How's the weather where everyone else is at?
You will be joining us in the great weather we have very soon, and leaving that 80 degrees behind...far behind for some 30 degree days!!! :rotfl2:

[cgcw]

So, it finally got warm enough that we had to close all the windows and turn on the air conditioner. 80 degrees in the house is a bit much. :sunny:

How's the weather where everyone else is at?

Brat!! :teeth:

I just talked to Chris and they are on the plane waiting to take off. The pilot was in communications with Chicago making sure everything was a go.

We have much less snow here than I thought. If we have 2", that's generous. Let's hope it stays away for now.

Safe travels pixiedust:

[Stitch#1]

Yea Krystina!!!
What a nice little surprise!!

Watching the news and the weather. Sfae travels to everyone and Keeping my fingers crossed that Amy and her family make it to Chicago ok.

Looks like that lovely weather is heading this way. Yea ha.

[cgcw]

:confused: :confused: :confused:

School is cancelled for my kids today.

:confused: :confused: :confused:

It sure doesn't look like it's bad enough out there. Cameron hasn't been to school but 2 hours this week so for him, he'll just stay in bed. Walker is going to be elated to play in it. Yesterday when he came home from school, he bundled up in his snowsuit and climbed up in the tree watching for snowflakes. I'm sure he'll going to be thrilled to play outside all day.

[cgcw]

Well the rain and snow mix has started on the south side...I am at Tims house now (near midway), and its coming down pretty good...When I left home it was pretty clear until I hit the end of 355 @ 55, and the mix started. We are in the house safe and sound, and staying til morning!

Tonight was Krystina's musical at school...she was supposed to be in the choir, and not have any individual parts, but another child didnt show up, and 10 min before the performance she stepped up to take the part of a hula snowwoman, with a few speaking lines...she did great!!! Didnt forget anything for just learning the part 10 mins before the show! I am so proud of her!!

And on another note, I have been in a haze this week, I have a sinus infection that has me feeling like I'm in an echo chamber at time...So I havent been all with it...I just today decided to look and see where the theater that the Blue Man Group is at...Guess what not Downtown at all...Its near the north side of the city and Lincoln park area...Tim and I talked and I had some Marriott Reward points, so we used them at the Marriott O'hare on River Rd for Friday and Saturday nights!! So we are going to drive over @ 2 or 3, and then have dinner and go to the show...I also found out there is another performance @ 10, so I'm assuming the show will be over by 830 or 9, and we will be back in the O'hare area by 9 or 930...If anyone is interested in hanging out, or going out for a few drinks, we would be up for that!!!

Safe travels to all traveling to Chicago, and for those not, be safe where ever you are!!

Way to go, Krystina. :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

What night are you going to see Blue Man Group? What night are you interested in getting together? Gail & I have theatre tickets tonight for the Rockettes at 8 p.m. and I'm betting we'll be up afterwards. I don't think anyone has thought ahead to tomorrow night.


I'll send you my cell phone number in case you want to give us a call.

[#1Mouse]

It stayed warm enough through the night so we only have had rain and I think I heard it thunder a couple of times last night.

Our driving should be fine from here to just past Jackson where it looks like they are having some freezing rain. The storm seems to be moving more north so maybe by this afternoon everything should be fine. Just before we leave I'll call my son (who lives in Kalamazoo) to see how that side of the state is doing.

What's the status on Chris and Amy? Looks like they will be in for a rude awakening coming from 80 degree temps :cold:

[#1Mouse]

Tina, That's great that Krystina was able to fill in at the last minute - Great Job Krystina!

I'm thinking we should be back to the hotel about 10:30/11:00 tonight - come by if you want. I was thinking we probably were just going to hang around the hotel Saturday evening. After being downtown during the day, we might need some time to thaw out.

I'll send you John's cell # also.

[WDWLVR]

It was mostly freezing rain last night but the snow is coming down now and we should get another 6 inches or more. Mark has been gone since 4 am as he plows two of his plants. Gail it looks like Michigan is getting more of the rain so I think you should be fine for most of your drive and by the time you hit the Chicago area most of it should be cleaned up. They are ready for it on the highway and tollway systems.

[WDWLVR]

Just checked Amy's flight status and they have departed. The Southwest site is even showing they should be getting in earlier than expected. I think the hardest part for them is driving up from the airport.

[Diana Lyn]

Brat!! :teeth:

I just talked to Chris and they are on the plane waiting to take off. The pilot was in communications with Chicago making sure everything was a go.

We have much less snow here than I thought. If we have 2", that's generous. Let's hope it stays away for now.

Safe travels pixiedust:

That's awesome--hopefully they'll be on the ground soon then! I guess Midway has it's advantages in situations like this? I know nothing about flying into Chicago, but in watching the first 10 minutes of the Today show it seems like OHare is pretty much at a standstill.

Safe travels to all! pixiedust:

We're having our last 60+ degree day here. They are forecasting the winds to start about 1pm and Thunderstorms by 5pm---then comes the cold.

[MarkRG]

Hi everyone.

Yes as Mary said I've been out since 4am plowing. And I've now looked at the radar, it's doing even worse than expected. :( The low that is powering this thing pushed way further north than expected, and generating heavy lake effect snow. Have a look.

http://www.wunderground.com/radar/mixedcomposite.asp?region=a4&size=2x&type=loop

It is coming down in inches an hour right now here in Northbrook, a bit north of the city.

Everyone be VERY careful out there today, it is a mess on all roads, and with as fast as it's coming down, that's not likely to change for hours at this point.

[cgcw]

Just checked Amy's flight status and they have departed. The Southwest site is even showing they should be getting in earlier than expected. I think the hardest part for them is driving up from the airport.

I am getting more concerned now that I heard that O'Hare has no runways open. Amy & Chris are flying into the smaller airport. I hope that because they are south of O'Hare that things are not as bad as at O'Hare. I hope they make it to Chicago, but I wouldn't be surprised is they were deverted someplace else either.

And, here I said it didn't look that bad out there. :blush:

[MarkRG]

That's awesome--hopefully they'll be on the ground soon then! I guess Midway has it's advantages in situations like this? I know nothing about flying into Chicago, but in watching the first 10 minutes of the Today show it seems like OHare is pretty much at a standstill.

Safe travels to all! pixiedust:

We're having our last 60+ degree day here. They are forecasting the winds to start about 1pm and Thunderstorms by 5pm---then comes the cold.

I think both airports are in lockdown by now. They probably only have a runway or two open for landings only at this point. Actually O'hare is the airport with the advantage, they have nice, long runways with a lot of open area around them. Midway is an airport in the middle of a neighborhood, and literally has just enough runway for a 727. Last winter we had a night with conditions similar to this and one slid right out of the airport into the street, crushing a car, and yes, the worst for the passengers of that car happened. :(

Now, before panicking. Since then they've installed devices at the ends of the runways to stop a plane safely before it could get out, and they've improved the safety margins for landings in poor conditions there. If it becomes that unsafe they will divert. Here's hoping it all goes smooth for Amy & co.

[WDWLVR]

Checking in from work and while I only have about a 2 mile drive that takes about 7 minutes - it is nasty out there. You cannot see at all and the plows are having a very hard time keeping up with all the snow. I don't think the south side is getting hit as hard but the whole area is being hit.

Stay safe everyone and thinking good thoughts for Amy, Chris and the girls. According to what I saw on the Southwest site they should be landing soon (it said 7:45). I'll go check there again.

[WDWLVR]

Southwest is still showing them arriving at 7:45 but does not have a gate assignment up yet.

[tinkerbelle77]

:confused: :confused: :confused:

School is cancelled for my kids today.

:confused: :confused: :confused:

It sure doesn't look like it's bad enough out there. Cameron hasn't been to school but 2 hours this week so for him, he'll just stay in bed. Walker is going to be elated to play in it. Yesterday when he came home from school, he bundled up in his snowsuit and climbed up in the tree watching for snowflakes. I'm sure he'll going to be thrilled to play outside all day.
Same here, and we barely have much snow!!! I called the school to make sure, and they said yes they are closed! but the daycare is open, so girls will go later until grandma is able to pick them up!

[tinkerbelle77]

I am getting more concerned now that I heard that O'Hare has no runways open. Amy & Chris are flying into the smaller airport. I hope that because they are south of O'Hare that things are not as bad as at O'Hare. I hope they make it to Chicago, but I wouldn't be surprised is they were deverted someplace else either.

And, here I said it didn't look that bad out there. :blush:
I dont want to jinx us here on the soutside, but @ Tim's house which is 10 min away from Midway, we have about an inch, and its just lightly snowing, so she should be fine!

[#1Mouse]

It's very rare that they close the schools here - especially so early in the school year. I guess they want to save the snow days in case we do get a ton of snow in Jan or Feb.

Unlucky for the school kids, our surrounding cities are really good about getting the streets cleaned and salted quickly.

[cgcw]

It's very rare that they close the schools here - especially so early in the school year. I guess they want to save the snow days in case we do get a ton of snow in Jan or Feb.

Unlucky for the school kids, our surrounding cities are really good about getting the streets cleaned and salted quickly.

We have had 1 snow day since Cameron has been in school. Our District never closes which is why it was such a surprise when they did today.

We don't have snowdays built into our school calendar so now the kids will need to go 1 day later into the summer months to make up for today. :(

[MaryJ]

We had really strong winds here starting at about 2:00 a.m. and continuing into this morning. The first thing I thought of when I woke up was "Amy & Chris are flying through these winds into Chicago," so before I was even out of bed, I said a little prayer for their safety. No snow here though.

Please let us know when they arrive. Those strong winds are probably the reason their plane is ahead of schedule. I'm sure they make for a good tailwind!

[cgcw]

We had really strong winds here starting at about 2:00 a.m. and continuing into this morning. The first thing I thought of when I woke up was "Amy & Chris are flying through these winds into Chicago," so before I was even out of bed, I said a little prayer for their safety. No snow here though.

Please let us know when they arrive. Those strong winds are probably the reason their plane is ahead of schedule. I'm sure they make for a good tailwind!

The Southwest site is now showing astericks for take off and landing information. I hope that means that they have landed. I tried to call Chris but it went right to voice mail. I asked them to give me a call just so we know they are on the ground -- even though it might be tough going once they leave the airport.

I'm not sure what their plans were today but I know Amy planned on a little trip down memory lane to the area I live in. I'm thinking it might be better for them to head to the hotel rather than this way. Maybe they will have time over the weekend to head out this way to reminise. Amy's brother lives not far from me and I believe that Amy's nephew's party is Sunday.

[WDWLVR]

Cindy - I was just going to say the same thing. Hoping it means they are on the ground and safe.

[cgcw]

Cindy - I was just going to say the same thing. Hoping it means they are on the ground and safe.

You & me the worriers, Mary. :goodvibes


I saw they had a gate for a while and then everything on the site went poof. I'm anxiously awaiting to hear they are safe.

[Garfield]

Oh the weather outside is frightful,
But the fire is so delightful,
And since we've no place to go,
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

It doesn't show signs of Pauseping,
And I've bought some corn for popping,
The lights are turned way down low,
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

When we finally kiss goodnight,
How I'll hate going out in the storm!
But if you'll really hold me tight,
All the way home I'll be warm.

The fire is slowly dying,
And, my dear, we're still good-bying,
But as long as you love me so,
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

[cgcw]

Chris & Amy are in Indianapolis. They aren't sure what's going to happen so stay tuned for an update.

[MarkRG]

Thnak Cindy, that's kind of what I was afraid to hear. The good thing is the weather here is finally breaking, so they may just fly them in on a later one.

[MaryJ]

Chris & Amy are in Indianapolis. They aren't sure what's going to happen so stay tuned for an update.
Wouldn't you know it! Two weeks ago today I was in Indy not 15 minutes from the airport. We were visiting our DD and her DH. Unfortunately, they are both at work now, so no way that they could help out our stranded travelers. Hopefully they won't be there too long, but it's at least good to know that they are safe!

[sanddune]

Just packing.It's not to bad here yet.They are saying it's pretty clear untill Jackson,MI. We won't be leaving untill 3-4 pm.When ever Aaron's bus drops him off. Safe travels to all of our friends!pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: See you tomorrow! Chris:wave: :moped:

[#1Mouse]

Chris & Amy are in Indianapolis. They aren't sure what's going to happen so stay tuned for an update.

Glad they at least are in route and not still sitting in Tampa. How far is Indianapolis from Chicago?

We're going to take off in a bit, stop at the bank and then pick up Deanna.

See some of you soon!

[WDWLVR]

Safe travels Chris.

Sorry to hear that Amy and Chris got detoured but it is to be expected in this weather. Here's hoping they get on their way to Chicago soon. I'm sure it is days like this that make them really glad they live in FL!

[sanddune]

Indy is 5 hrs from Chicago.
Safe travels to you and your family !:wizard: See ya soon!:cool1: Glad they at least are in route and not still sitting in Tampa. How far is Indianapolis from Chicago?

We're going to take off in a bit, stop at the bank and then pick up Deanna.

See some of you soon!

[WDWLVR]

Gail - safe travels to you guys too as well as Karen/Curt.

Looking forward to seeing everyone tomorrow!

[cgcw]

Here's some good news.


I was just talking to a friend who has a daycare parent who lives in Schaumburg and works in Rosemont (where a lot of us are staying tonight) and the word is that the farther she drove towards Rosemont the better the weather conditions were. It makes me feel better for our Michigan friends making their journey today.

The bad news is I have no idea where my snowboots went. I had them when I went camping with Cameron in October and now they are no where to be found. So, I will be the idiot with gym shoes on tonight and tomorrow. :(

[sanddune]

The bad news is I have no idea where my snowboots went. I had them when I went camping with Cameron in October and now they are no where to be found. So, I will be the idiot with gym shoes on tonight and tomorrow. :( I'll be with you! The boots take up to much room. All of us are comming with just tennis shoes.Not the smartest thing to do but that's how it is!;)(I'm packing plastic bags for our shoes if we get stuck some where and have to walk in snow.)

[tinkerbelle77]

We have had 1 snow day since Cameron has been in school. Our District never closes which is why it was such a surprise when they did today.

We don't have snowdays built into our school calendar so now the kids will need to go 1 day later into the summer months to make up for today. :(
Same here, we had one snow day, we never close the schools! The kids will have their last day on a monday in June now!!

[Garfield]

The bad news is I have no idea where my snowboots went. I had them when I went camping with Cameron in October and now they are no where to be found. So, I will be the idiot with gym shoes on tonight and tomorrow. :(

No Dear, you're not the only :crazy: idiot, you will have company :crowded: ::yes::

[WDWLVR]

Any update on Amy & Chris?

[cgcw]

Any update on Amy & Chris?

Sorry about that, I was going to post once I got the kids down. Amy called about an hour ago, they are still in Indianapolis waiting for the okay to head up to Chicago. They were told don't stray far because once they have clearance, they will be taking off.

[WDWLVR]

Thanks Cindy! Hopefully they will be in the air soon and on their way. Nothing like a winter storm to change your plans for the day.

[rsschneck]

I hope Amy, Chris and the girls get to Chicago safely and soon! It will be a long day for them hanging out in the airport. My MIL lives in Indy and the airport there does not have a lot to keep you occupied.

[cgcw]

Hip Hip Horray!!! Chris, Amy & the girls just landed in Chicago!! :cheer2:

[WDWLVR]

Yeah! Glad they made it. The storm is passed so they shouldn't have too much trouble getting to the hotel. What an adventure.

[Diana Lyn]

Yeah! Glad they made it. The storm is passed so they shouldn't have too much trouble getting to the hotel. What an adventure.

I'm so glad they arrived safely! You guys all have a great weekend!!

[Garfield]

Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy
Sunshine in my eyes can make me cry
Sunshine on the water looks so lovely
Sunshine almost always makes me high

If I had a day that I could give you
I'd give to you a day just like today
If I had a song that I could sing for you
I'd sing a song to make you feel this way

Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy
Sunshine in my eyes can make me cry
Sunshine on the water looks so lovely
Sunshine almost always makes me high

If I had a tale that I could tell you
I'd tell a tale sure to make you smile
If I had a wish that I could wish for you
I'd make a wish for sunshine all the while

Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy
Sunshine in my eyes can make me cry
Sunshine on the water looks so lovely
Sunshine almost always makes me high
Sunshine almost all the time makes me high
Sunshine almost always

[cgcw]

I'm so glad they arrived safely! You guys all have a great weekend!!

I wish you and Stacy were coming too!!

Hopefully another time. How about July at Cedar Point?? :teeth:

[cgcw]

Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy


Sunshine in my eyes can make me cry
Sunshine on the water looks so lovely
Sunshine almost always makes me high

If I had a day that I could give you
I'd give to you a day just like today
If I had a song that I could sing for you
I'd sing a song to make you feel this way

Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy
Sunshine in my eyes can make me cry
Sunshine on the water looks so lovely
Sunshine almost always makes me high

If I had a tale that I could tell you
I'd tell a tale sure to make you smile
If I had a wish that I could wish for you
I'd make a wish for sunshine all the while

Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy
Sunshine in my eyes can make me cry
Sunshine on the water looks so lovely
Sunshine almost always makes me high
Sunshine almost all the time makes me high
Sunshine almost always




Enough with the serenading. Finish up your work and get on home so we can go party:

[sanddune]

We are packed . Kids are home and off we go!!
party: party:

[tinkerbelle77]

OK...Well once again my plans have changed, but this time its not due to me...Tim had to go into work and close today, one of his employees walked out, and the other complained that he didnt want to stay until close, so guess who that left...Tim! So I am going to Blue man group with my brothers girlfriend, and we are cancelling the hotel room, makes no sense when he has to work tomorrow also. Me, Krystina, Haylee, and Tims DD Lauren will be at lunch tomorrow!! I am trying to talk to Tim into driving up by you guys after he gets off work tonight, and we will all hang out. I cant believe the luck he has!

Glad Amy and family have landed safely here in Chicago! Safe travels to everyone else!

[cgcw]

We are packed . Kids are home and off we go!!

party: party:





Safe Travels, Chris, Mike, Ryan, Aaron & Alex!!

Gail & her family are already on the road.

Has anyone heard from Curt & Karen?

Safe travels everyone!!!!!

Tina, you know we'll be up later so depending on what time Tim gets off of work, give us a call.

pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust:

[fireplug]

Wow quite a morning around here! We lost electricty in the whole town for most of the day and although we have Generator here at the bulance quarters there was no CABLE either :badpc: SO that coupled with the 7 calls we have had today, I havent had much time to post anything.
Conditions were AWFUL here today. Our drive to the nearest hospital is usually 22 min. today was 45 minutes. And just all around a nasty day.

It sure saddens me to miss everyone this weekend. I will try and post a pic or two IF we burn down the building we are supposed to tomorrow. I hope all the rest of the travelers arrive safely

Stay safe out there and have a MAGICal day !

Squid

[chipscinderelly]

Way to go, Krystina. :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

What night are you going to see Blue Man Group? What night are you interested in getting together? Gail & I have theatre tickets tonight for the Rockettes at 8 p.m. and I'm betting we'll be up afterwards. I don't think anyone has thought ahead to tomorrow night.


I'll send you my cell phone number in case you want to give us a call.

OOh the Rockettes in Chicago is just a wonderful holiday treat - have a blast!

[Stitch#1]

Yowza it sounds like it has been a crazy day.
So glad to hear Chris and Amy finally made it to Chicago. The girls must be beat.
The day started out nice here then started to turn at around 1pm. We have crazy on and off rain right now, lightning and thunder. A bunch of schools canceled after school activities and they are predicting high winds.
We are going to the school for a play tonight at 7:30.

I can't believe some of your schools don't have snow days worked into the school plan. Our school has 5 days worked in which rarely all get used.

[WDWLVR]

For those who are home tonight - don't forget cruise chat!

click here to enter chat (http://host50.123flashchat.com/disboards/)

[buzybee]

Yowza it sounds like it has been a crazy day.
So glad to hear Chris and Amy finally made it to Chicago. The girls must be beat.
The day started out nice here then started to turn at around 1pm. We have crazy on and off rain right now, lightning and thunder. A bunch of schools canceled after school activities and they are predicting high winds.
We are going to the school for a play tonight at 7:30.

I can't believe some of your schools don't have snow days worked into the school plan. Our school has 5 days worked in which rarely all get used.


We're 2 hours south of you, in Rockland County. We are in the midst of a tornado warning till 10 p.m. tonight. It's getting windy, rained heavy for a while, saw the moon for a quick second, now it's dreary again. However, it's 68 degrees going down to 37 tonight! Unbelievable!

We have 3 days built into the school calendar. But this year we are not concerned because our kids are all out of high school!

[Copper3]

Safe travels to all who are still on the road. And everyone at the meet, have a great time!

[buzybee]

Safe travels to all who are still on the road. And everyone at the meet, have a great time!


Jeff, did I read something in our paper about some kind of incident in Lakeland yesterday??

[WDWLVR]

Good morning everyone! Hope everyone who was coming to Chicago got in safely. Looking forward to meeting up with everyone at Archiver's and at lunch.

[chipscinderelly]

Hope you guys have a wonderful time!

[okwdreamin]

Yes, have a wonderful time!! Wish we could be there.

[MaryJ]

Hope everyone has a wonderful time at the Chicago mini meet. Ken's back is finally on the mend, so we're off to look for a Christmas tree today.

Are we the only one's on this board that still get a real tree?

[Stitch#1]

Are we the only one's on this board that still get a real tree?

We used to get a real tree but when the cats came along we ended up switching to a fake tree. Pluss we have limited space for a tree and most real trees were kind of wide. So now we have a narrow tall tree.

[Stitch#1]

Hey there! :wave:
Sorry we missed chat last night.
We went to watch the school play last night. "Romeo & Winifred" it was a parody of Romeo & Juliet. It was pretty cute & funny. Some of the kids were real good. The girl who had the lead as Winifred is someone you could see as being an actress someday.

[Copper3]

Jeff, did I read something in our paper about some kind of incident in Lakeland yesterday??

I haven't heard anything but haven't watched the news either. Been busy at work and cleaning up the apartment for the TV arrival which happened today. It's a big TV, bigger than expected. I need to call the cable company to switch to the HD package or at least get a receiver that has an HD hook-up, my current one doesn't.

Hope the meet was fun!

[MaryJ]

I just got back from doing a little Christmas shopping....for myself! Every year my MIL gives us money on Thanksgiving and tells us to buy something for ourselves, wrap it up, and bring it to her house to open when we're all together for Christmas. She also gave me some money for my birthday last month which I hadn't spent yet.

Sooooo, today I went to Wal-Mart and combined the money to buy a Cricut! After hearing everyone here sing its praises, I decided to take the plunge. Ken got a Wal-Mart Gift Card at work for Thanksgiving, so I used that to bring down the price from $179 to $129! The hard part is leaving it in the box!

I told Ken that extra cartidges would make good Christmas presents. :rolleyes1

[gometros]

Instead of going to see DS's high school musical "Fiddler on the Roof" tonight (he is just part of the stage crew),

I have to stick up for your son here. Having ben invovled with school musicals with all three kids (1 pit, two on stage), I know how important the stage crew is to the musical. They may not be there in front of the audience, but without them. the actors would be on a naked stage, if they remember to get on stage at all.

[WDWLVR]

Just got back from a wonderful lunch at Gino's East with the gang. How great to see everyone again. Wish the rest of you could have been there. It is amazing to me how fantastically all of these families blend together with the kids looking out for each other. We had a large adult table and then a kids table. Lots of fun had by all. We're back home but I believe the rest of the group was going back to the hotel and then downtown to check out the lights and holiday windows.

[gometros]

Just got back from a wonderful lunch at Gino's East with the gang. How great to see everyone again. Wish the rest of you could have been there. It is amazing to me how fantastically all of these families blend together with the kids looking out for each other. We had a large adult table and then a kids table. Lots of fun had by all. We're back home but I believe the rest of the group was going back to the hotel and then downtown to check out the lights and holiday windows.

Glad you guyshad a good time, Mary. SO did AMy and Chris make it or are they still stuck in Indianapolis?

[Stitch#1]

I just got back from doing a little Christmas shopping....for myself! Every year my MIL gives us money on Thanksgiving and tells us to buy something for ourselves, wrap it up, and bring it to her house to open when we're all together for Christmas. She also gave me some money for my birthday last month which I hadn't spent yet.

Sooooo, today I went to Wal-Mart and combined the money to buy a Cricut! After hearing everyone here sing its praises, I decided to take the plunge. Ken got a Wal-Mart Gift Card at work for Thanksgiving, so I used that to bring down the price from $179 to $129! The hard part is leaving it in the box!

I told Ken that extra cartidges would make good Christmas presents. :rolleyes1


:cheer2: Yea Mary!!! :cheer2:
I haven't gotten to use mine as much as I would have liked (busy time of year and all). But I can't wait for the holidays to pass so I can go nuts!!!

[MaryJ]

Stacy,

I figured that I'll be ready when CJ time comes around! I have too many things to do with the holidays and all right now to really play with it.

[WDWLVR]

Glad you guyshad a good time, Mary. SO did AMy and Chris make it or are they still stuck in Indianapolis?

Amy, Chris and the girls made it into Chicago yesterday afternoon. So they were able to meet up with everyone at the hotel yesterday. Sounds like they all had a great time last night. Lots of shopping at Archivers today and then a great lunch.

[BCVOwner2002]

Haven't posted in a while. Work has been crazy to say the least. I hope everyoone had a good time at the DISmeet. Wish we could've gone - maybe another time. Well, we are planning on Cedar Point this summer! :thumbsup2

[okwdreamin]

I have to stick up for your son here. Having ben invovled with school musicals with all three kids (1 pit, two on stage), I know how important the stage crew is to the musical. They may not be there in front of the audience, but without them. the actors would be on a naked stage, if they remember to get on stage at all.

LOL, I know the stage crew it is an important job, but it isn't that glamorous when posting about it. He was in one play (A Few Good Men) last year, but on the crew of all the others. That is where he is comfortable and happy. I wouldn't dream of missing seeing a play that he is on the crew of. :goodvibes

[WDWLVR]

Good morning everyone! Happy Sunday!

Safe travels to all our friends going back home today! I think Amy and Chris don't leave until tomorrow and are a family function today. But to all our Michigan friends have a safe drive home and thanks for coming to visit. Can't wait to see everyone at Cedar Point!

[iluvdisney]

Good Morning everyone from WDW! It's a bit of a foggy morning here but heck I'm not back in Michigan and I'm not complaining about the fog. Checked into OKW yesterday and the family (my brothers and sisters starting arriving shortly after me). The GV is so much bigger than I remember. I vaguely remember seeing one during the tour but it is BEAUTIFUL!!! We were all up til 2 am sharing stories and having a great time!

I was surprised to see that you all had your Chicago meet! Not going to let a little snow storm stop you! Sure glad that everyone made it safe and I'm looking forward to reading all about it!

Well, off to finish unpacking and the people here are starting to stir so I'll check in when I can. See ya soon Mary and Mark!

[MarkRG]

Well now, I would have posted sooner, but I'll get to why in a few minutes.

The day started out with a meetup at Archivers, on this cold, post snow weekend. Most everyone had an interesting time there, more for people who've never seen it before, but even for us we did our good bit of shopping there too.

One thing of note - we did find page inserts that will work to replace those harmful to photos cling pages in the leather scrapbooks from the cruise, check with your local scrapbook stores, page inserts in cream that match the size do exist.

http://www.wdwinfo.com/photopost/data/500/36347meet1.jpg


Sooo... after some shopping there, off we go to get to Gino's. Now they must have moved sometime in the recent past, as the address I had was plain wrong and had Mary and I and Tina's group, who was following us, headed the wrong way. No huge biggie we get there only a few minutes after the rest of the group, they're only first settling in. So after ordering, we now have almost an hour to kill for the pizza, deep dish takes time. So we hang out and kibbitz which is in its own right enjoyable. :)

http://www.wdwinfo.com/photopost/data/500/36347meet2.jpghttp://www.wdwinfo.com/photopost/data/500/36347meet3.jpg

And then finally, there's the entree of the evening,,mmmMMMmmmmmm:
http://www.wdwinfo.com/photopost/data/500/36347meet4.jpg


After the pizza, it's time to move on. and where Mary and I part ways with the rest of the group, who when we left were still discussing whether to go downtown or not, as it was bitter cold yesterday.

At least the kids were enjoying the snow, which is a novelty for Amy&Chris' kids:

http://www.wdwinfo.com/photopost/data/500/36347meet5.jpg
http://www.wdwinfo.com/photopost/data/500/36347meet6.jpg


Now, I am sorry to see them go, but it worked out for the best at least, one thing I have to remember... Beware the 'shrooms! Someone got battered deep fried mushrooms as an appitizer and couldn't finish and shared them down the table and I had a few.... mistake! Halfway thru the pizza, run to the bathroom, which wound up being the theme of the rest of the day for me. I should know better by now, but under certain conditions I'm fine with them, then some times, that winds up being the result. So in a way, was good we didn't go with further or it might have gotten messy.

I hope the rest of the group had a fun time, with whatever they went on to do,
have a safe journey back home, and look forward to hearing about it :)

[BriarRose59]

I have finally caught up and have enjoyed reading everyone's escapades over the last few weeks. I am glad everyone is safe after the weather that has gone through the past week or so. We were frozen here last Thursday and Friday, but everything is pretty much back to normal now. It was great to hear that Chery's surgery went well and that she is back home. That is a great holiday treat!

Happy birthday to all those who have celebrated since I was on last and congrats to all the kids who have done well at school and their other activities.

I have to brag on my 2 daughters. We found out last weekend that my oldest daughter (19) was accepted into Texas A&M for the spring semester. This is a big deal because, as I posted before the cruise, she had a massive stroke at age 17 in 2004. She is still impaired on her right side and had to start out her college career slowly at a local junior college to see if she could handle the course load, which put her behind in credit hours. At TAMU you must have 24 transfer credits to be accepted, but she only has 18. Well, one of the counselors suggested she try anyway so she did. The college considered her situation and saw that she was doing well academically and decided to accept her for the spring. She is very excited and we are so proud of her. So I guess now I am officially an Aggie Mom! My younger daughter (15) is in the advance placement art class at her high school. Their class has painted a large mural for our public safety department which will be dedicated this week. She also did a piece for the PTA Reflections contest that was selected to go to the state level. We are waiting to hear if she made it past state to the national level.

I have my CJ ready to go! I wanted to do it now because the holidays are crazy and we will be gone from Christmas to New Years. When we get back we have to go to TAMU for a transfer student orientation for a couple of days, then when I get back from that its time for my 15 year olds 16th birthday party! I knew I would be stressed and wanted this to be a fun project so I went ahead and did it before it gets too crazy around here. My theme is an alphabet book. I took the letter "A" so you can get an idea of what to do. My "A" page is "All Aboard" and it is the picture that was taken before we boarded the boat.

Well we are off to do some Christmas shopping this afternoon. Happy holidays everyone!!

[cherylp3]

Hi Everyone,

Just stopping in to say Thanks and to say hi. Glad everyone had fun in Chicago. Its still hard for me to sit at my cpu for long periods.

btw someone went to the ssr meeting and dvc said despite the negative feedback they were planning on staying with a lottery, also they say they are working on a payment system.
post is here: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=15812988&postcount=2

[chipscinderelly]

The photos look wonderful Mark - thank you for sharing them!


Would someone post the brand and information about the pages that fit the book? We have so many stores here I'd like to limit my driving around to find the right pages by calling ahead :)

[cherylp3]

Julie,

I believe we are using 8 x 8 pages for the Circle Journal.

Cheryl

[WDWLVR]

The photos look wonderful Mark - thank you for sharing them!


Would someone post the brand and information about the pages that fit the book? We have so many stores here I'd like to limit my driving around to find the right pages by calling ahead :)

Julie - the pages are from KOLO www.kolo.com . It is item # 300-2201. They are 8 1/2 x 11 landscape pages. The holes are not in the exact same spot but new ones can be punched. They are are cream color that matches up nice to the cream color pages in the front of the book. They come in a pack of 10.

Speaking of the book - one sheet of stickers says something about a map but we have no map in our book. Amy said she thought they did. Anyone else? Map or no map?

[chipscinderelly]

Thanks Mary! Kolo is a brand I am very familiar with - great find!


I'll check our boxes later and if we have maps in both you can have one of ours - I don't recall and they are upstairs and well we're down right now :)

[tinkerbelle77]

Julie - the pages are from KOLO www.kolo.com . It is item # 300-2201. They are 8 1/2 x 11 landscape pages. The holes are not in the exact same spot but new ones can be punched. They are are cream color that matches up nice to the cream color pages in the front of the book. They come in a pack of 10.

Speaking of the book - one sheet of stickers says something about a map but we have no map in our book. Amy said she thought they did. Anyone else? Map or no map?
We have a map in the back of our books with the stickers... It says Our vacation adventures ith the DVC logo on it!

[tinkerbelle77]

Good Morning all!! We had an absolute great time this weekend!! The girls enjoyed the time with the other kids so much that they are still sleeping this morning(we didnt get home until 130am last night)Glad that everyone was able to make it here despite the snow.

[WDWLVR]

Thanks Mary! Kolo is a brand I am very familiar with - great find!


I'll check our boxes later and if we have maps in both you can have one of ours - I don't recall and they are upstairs and well we're down right now :)

Duh - didn't think to look in our second one until I read your post. Sure enough our second one had one in it. :lmao: Thanks for the offer Julie!

[chipscinderelly]

LOL Mary - glad I could help!

[gometros]

I have to brag on my 2 daughters. We found out last weekend that my oldest daughter (19) was accepted into Texas A&M for the spring semester. This is a big deal because, as I posted before the cruise, she had a massive stroke at age 17 in 2004. She is still impaired on her right side and had to start out her college career slowly at a local junior college to see if she could handle the course load, which put her behind in credit hours. At TAMU you must have 24 transfer credits to be accepted, but she only has 18. Well, one of the counselors suggested she try anyway so she did. The college considered her situation and saw that she was doing well academically and decided to accept her for the spring. She is very excited and we are so proud of her. So I guess now I am officially an Aggie Mom! My younger daughter (15) is in the advance placement art class at her high school. Their class has painted a large mural for our public safety department which will be dedicated this week. She also did a piece for the PTA Reflections contest that was selected to go to the state level. We are waiting to hear if she made it past state to the national level.

Congratulations on both of your daughters' accomplishments. You should be very proud.

[gometros]

Now I know I've joined the ranks of the frequent flyers. I'm a Continental OnePass member and with planned trips in December, I will be 4,400 miles short of reaching Platinum Elite. Anyone who travels a lot, can appreciate the advantages being at the top level provides. So, to make sure I get there, I booked a flight next Saturday to LAX that leaves NY at 4:45pm, gets me in at 8:08pm and then a return flight that leaves 7:00am the next morning and gets me home by 3:000pm. I called the airline to explore what my alternatives were and this was the best choice. They told me that what I am doing is far from unusual. Many business travelers spend the last week of the year just making up miles. All just to be a privileged flyer :rotfl2:

[fireplug]

Duh - didn't think to look in our second one until I read your post. Sure enough our second one had one in it. :lmao: Thanks for the offer Julie!
:rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl2:

SQuid

[Stitch#1]

Would someone post the brand and information about the pages that fit the book? We have so many stores here I'd like to limit my driving around to find the right pages by calling ahead :)

I'm with Julie. Not that I have a lot of options but if I can't find it my local Scrapbook store lady may be able to order it for me or maybe I can just order it from Archivers.

ETA: Never mind. I should have kept on reading before I posted.

[Stitch#1]

I have to brag on my 2 daughters. We found out last weekend that my oldest daughter (19) was accepted into Texas A&M for the spring semester. This is a big deal because, as I posted before the cruise, she had a massive stroke at age 17 in 2004. She is still impaired on her right side and had to start out her college career slowly at a local junior college to see if she could handle the course load, which put her behind in credit hours. At TAMU you must have 24 transfer credits to be accepted, but she only has 18. Well, one of the counselors suggested she try anyway so she did. The college considered her situation and saw that she was doing well academically and decided to accept her for the spring. She is very excited and we are so proud of her. So I guess now I am officially an Aggie Mom! My younger daughter (15) is in the advance placement art class at her high school. Their class has painted a large mural for our public safety department which will be dedicated this week. She also did a piece for the PTA Reflections contest that was selected to go to the state level. We are waiting to hear if she made it past state to the national level.

I have my CJ ready to go! I wanted to do it now because the holidays are crazy and we will be gone from Christmas to New Years. When we get back we have to go to TAMU for a transfer student orientation for a couple of days, then when I get back from that its time for my 15 year olds 16th birthday party! I knew I would be stressed and wanted this to be a fun project so I went ahead and did it before it gets too crazy around here. My theme is an alphabet book. I took the letter "A" so you can get an idea of what to do. My "A" page is "All Aboard" and it is the picture that was taken before we boarded the boat.

Well we are off to do some Christmas shopping this afternoon. Happy holidays everyone!!

That's AWESOME News!!!
I bet she can't wait for Spring to get here!

Now I know why you wanted a certain number of people in the CJ group. An Alphabet CJ is a great idea!!

[Stitch#1]

Julie - the pages are from KOLO www.kolo.com . It is item # 300-2201. They are 8 1/2 x 11 landscape pages. The holes are not in the exact same spot but new ones can be punched. They are are cream color that matches up nice to the cream color pages in the front of the book. They come in a pack of 10.

Speaking of the book - one sheet of stickers says something about a map but we have no map in our book. Amy said she thought they did. Anyone else? Map or no map?

Thanks for the info on the pages!
I had a map in at least one of mine. It's folded up and behind what they consider "stickers". I'll have to go check my other book now.

[Stitch#1]

Well I'm glad to hear that everyone was having a good time at the Chicago meet! Our weekend was a little bit different then that.

Yesterday we just vegged out and I worked on our Christmas cards. Getting them addressed, stamped and ready to be mailed.

Today we went to the city of Troy. They were doing a Victorian Stroll today, it's an annual event. We didn't stay long, just long enough for me to bring the Christmas cards that I did have ready to be mailed to the Post Office for the Special Cancellation stamp that they do.

From there we headed to Albany to got to the New York State Museum. They were doing a famly fun weekend. They had different business' that set up tables thru out the museum selling there products and giving out free samples. The best part was in honor of the Chocolate exhibit they have at the museum currently they had alot of vendors giving out chocolate!!
They even had a couple of Chocolate Fountains set up.
One of the Business' that had a Chocolate Fountain was Saratoga Sweets, they are famous for the Peppermint Pig (the one sold at SSR).
Needless to say we came home with some yummy stuff for desert. Some chocolate, a small pumpkin tart and a small apple tart. Yummy!!

[sanddune]

Well just got home. We are unpacked and doing laundry .We all had a great time! Can't wait until the next meet. Amy and Chris thanks for the tour of Chicago!:sunny:
I'm going to start calling Cedar Point this week. Going to see if they will do a group booking of the cabins.;)

Mike and I are going to look at places for another meet in Feb-07 and maybe May of 07. What do you think? Any ideas let me know!

[Diana Lyn]

I have finally caught up and have enjoyed reading everyone's escapades over the last few weeks. I am glad everyone is safe after the weather that has gone through the past week or so. We were frozen here last Thursday and Friday, but everything is pretty much back to normal now. It was great to hear that Chery's surgery went well and that she is back home. That is a great holiday treat!

Happy birthday to all those who have celebrated since I was on last and congrats to all the kids who have done well at school and their other activities.

I have to brag on my 2 daughters. We found out last weekend that my oldest daughter (19) was accepted into Texas A&M for the spring semester. This is a big deal because, as I posted before the cruise, she had a massive stroke at age 17 in 2004. She is still impaired on her right side and had to start out her college career slowly at a local junior college to see if she could handle the course load, which put her behind in credit hours. At TAMU you must have 24 transfer credits to be accepted, but she only has 18. Well, one of the counselors suggested she try anyway so she did. The college considered her situation and saw that she was doing well academically and decided to accept her for the spring. She is very excited and we are so proud of her. So I guess now I am officially an Aggie Mom! My younger daughter (15) is in the advance placement art class at her high school. Their class has painted a large mural for our public safety department which will be dedicated this week. She also did a piece for the PTA Reflections contest that was selected to go to the state level. We are waiting to hear if she made it past state to the national level.

I have my CJ ready to go! I wanted to do it now because the holidays are crazy and we will be gone from Christmas to New Years. When we get back we have to go to TAMU for a transfer student orientation for a couple of days, then when I get back from that its time for my 15 year olds 16th birthday party! I knew I would be stressed and wanted this to be a fun project so I went ahead and did it before it gets too crazy around here. My theme is an alphabet book. I took the letter "A" so you can get an idea of what to do. My "A" page is "All Aboard" and it is the picture that was taken before we boarded the boat.

Well we are off to do some Christmas shopping this afternoon. Happy holidays everyone!!

First of all the alphabet CJ idea is an awesome one!! How cool! I'm already excited to get it!

Congrats to you on raising two smart talented daughters! You should be so proud of them, they both have some amazing accomplishments at such young ages.

[cgcw]

I have to brag on my 2 daughters. We found out last weekend that my oldest daughter (19) was accepted into Texas A&M for the spring semester. This is a big deal because, as I posted before the cruise, she had a massive stroke at age 17 in 2004. She is still impaired on her right side and had to start out her college career slowly at a local junior college to see if she could handle the course load, which put her behind in credit hours. At TAMU you must have 24 transfer credits to be accepted, but she only has 18. Well, one of the counselors suggested she try anyway so she did. The college considered her situation and saw that she was doing well academically and decided to accept her for the spring. She is very excited and we are so proud of her. So I guess now I am officially an Aggie Mom! My younger daughter (15) is in the advance placement art class at her high school. Their class has painted a large mural for our public safety department which will be dedicated this week. She also did a piece for the PTA Reflections contest that was selected to go to the state level. We are waiting to hear if she made it past state to the national level.

Brag away!!!! Congratulations to both of them!!! :cheer2: :cheer2::cheer2:

[Diana Lyn]

I just got back from doing a little Christmas shopping....for myself! Every year my MIL gives us money on Thanksgiving and tells us to buy something for ourselves, wrap it up, and bring it to her house to open when we're all together for Christmas. She also gave me some money for my birthday last month which I hadn't spent yet.

Sooooo, today I went to Wal-Mart and combined the money to buy a Cricut! After hearing everyone here sing its praises, I decided to take the plunge. Ken got a Wal-Mart Gift Card at work for Thanksgiving, so I used that to bring down the price from $179 to $129! The hard part is leaving it in the box!

I told Ken that extra cartidges would make good Christmas presents. :rolleyes1

Congrats on the Cricut Mary! You're gonna love the cool things you can make with it! I suggest when you get into it go to the cricut website, theres a great message board will all sorts of tips and some awesome pics of other peoples work with each cartridge.

[Diana Lyn]

I'm with Julie. Not that I have a lot of options but if I can't find it my local Scrapbook store lady may be able to order it for me or maybe I can just order it from Archivers.

ETA: Never mind. I should have kept on reading before I posted.

Let me know if your local scrapbook lady can get it. :lmao:

[Diana Lyn]

Well I'm glad to hear that everyone was having a good time at the Chicago meet! Our weekend was a little bit different then that.

Yesterday we just vegged out and I worked on our Christmas cards. Getting them addressed, stamped and ready to be mailed.

Today we went to the city of Troy. They were doing a Victorian Stroll today, it's an annual event. We didn't stay long, just long enough for me to bring the Christmas cards that I did have ready to be mailed to the Post Office for the Special Cancellation stamp that they do.

From there we headed to Albany to got to the New York State Museum. They were doing a famly fun weekend. They had different business' that set up tables thru out the museum selling there products and giving out free samples. The best part was in honor of the Chocolate exhibit they have at the museum currently they had alot of vendors giving out chocolate!!
They even had a couple of Chocolate Fountains set up.
One of the Business' that had a Chocolate Fountain was Saratoga Sweets, they are famous for the Peppermint Pig (the one sold at SSR).
Needless to say we came home with some yummy stuff for desert. Some chocolate, a small pumpkin tart and a small apple tart. Yummy!!

So was that your cell number on my cell? I didn't answer the phone because we were at the Chocolate exhibit! :lmao: We went outside and watched the ice skating for a while too. Then we stayed for the tree lighting and fireworks. It was COLD!!!

[WDWLVR]

Anyone going to chat tonight? Here is the link click here to enter chat (http://host50.123flashchat.com/disboards/)

[Diana Lyn]

Well just got home. We are unpacked and doing laundry .We all had a great time! Can't wait until the next meet. Amy and Chris thanks for the tour of Chicago!:sunny:
I'm going to start calling Cedar Point this week. Going to see if they will do a group booking of the cabins.;)

Mike and I are going to look at places for another meet in Feb-07 and maybe May of 07. What do you think? Any ideas let me know!

Glad to hear everyone had a great time!

How about everyone just coming here in February! I'm tired of missing out on these meets and we have plenty of room! :lmao:

[sanddune]

Glad to hear everyone had a great time!

How about everyone just coming here in February! I'm tired of missing out on these meets and we have plenty of room! :lmao:I'm ok with that for the May meet Diana. I think Feb might be a hike for some in the winter.;)If the Chicago people want too,I could be talked into Feb.:rotfl:

[cgcw]

Well just got home. We are unpacked and doing laundry .We all had a great time! Can't wait until the next meet. Amy and Chris thanks for the tour of Chicago!:sunny:
I'm going to start calling Cedar Point this week. Going to see if they will do a group booking of the cabins.;)

Mike and I are going to look at places for another meet in Feb-07 and maybe May of 07. What do you think? Any ideas let me know!

I'm glad you made it home safely. I heard you ran into an area with some pretty significant snow. By now, Curt & Karen and Gail, John & Deanna are past that area as well as far as I know, traveling safely.

We are definatley in for Cedar Point!! :cool1:

And, we are definately in for anything in between. ::yes::




And, I love the fact that you come to our home town and thank Chris & Amy from FL for the tour. :rotfl2: :rotfl2::rotfl2: Are you trying to say that my family also looked like we were from out of town even though we were born and raised here? :rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:



A quick trip to the dentist tonight proved what my weekend companions said about Walker's mouth pain not being the result of his 6 year molar coming in. Turns out that he had an abscess. A couple shots of novicane & having it drained has made it feel SO much better. A weeks worth of antibiotics and he'll be good as new. I'm very glad that everyone said they didn't think it was normal or I may have put off calling our dentist until tomorrow. By then, the dentist said, it would have been really bad as it was already pretty bad by the time we went in this evening.

We had a blast this weekend. We were talking about how cool it was that we were all together and how we are looking forward to next time. As Mary said, all of the kids get along so well it's really amazing.

And, the best part? No knock on the door from management Saturday night that we were disturbing our neighbors. Although by then Chris had a back up plan for us, we didn't need to exercise it. One of our crabby neighbors put a complaint in Friday night that we were being too noise, so we had to change rooms and move down the hall to Amy & Chris' room.





Now it's time for us to call it a night. Two late, 1 a.m. nights are enough to do me in (just ask anyone, I was trying to sneak a cat nap in last night ;) ) so it's early to bed in our house tonight.

[sanddune]

Cindy,glad to see that Walker's on the way to feeling better!

I beleive you did a great job leading the group too!Thanks!:thumbsup2

[cgcw]

Cindy,glad to see that Walker's on the way to feeling better!

I beleive you did a great job leading the group too!Thanks!:thumbsup2

Thanks, Chris.

And, to just get this straight, Gary & I did absolutely no leading on our trip to Chicago. We have never been on the el before, we have no idea of the landmarks downtown, we never could have done it without the help of our Florida and Michigan friends.

If we do it again, let's just plan it for a little milder weather. It wasn't bad when we first got downtown but by the time we were heading back, it was a bit chilly. And, we need to plan our stops a little better along the way. ;)

[sanddune]

Thanks, Chris.

And, to just get this straight, Gary & I did absolutely no leading on our trip to Chicago. We have never been on the el before, we have no idea of the landmarks downtown, we never could have done it without the help of our Florida and Michigan friends.

If we do it again, let's just plan it for a little milder weather. It wasn't bad when we first got downtown but by the time we were heading back, it was a bit chilly. And, we need to plan our stops a little better along the way. ;)
Well, you did a great job getting me to the store and to the food!:rotfl2:

[sanddune]

I can't get into chat tonight.My computer locks up.:guilty:

[Stitch#1]

So was that your cell number on my cell? I didn't answer the phone because we were at the Chocolate exhibit! :lmao: We went outside and watched the ice skating for a while too. Then we stayed for the tree lighting and fireworks. It was COLD!!!

I was in line for the Chocolate Fountain in the lobby when I called!

[#1Mouse]

We got in about 9:40 (EST). It was a quick drive home, only 5 hrs. We had one bad spot where it was snowing so bad that you couldn't see the lines on the road - but we were expecting it since Chris and Mike called Curt & Karen and they then called us.

We had a great time going to Archivers, Gino's for lunch and then downtown. The city is so beautiful and riding the El was an experience. We took the blue line from downtown to O'Hare. On the El we were discussing how and where we needed to go to get a bus back to the hotel. There was a guy that was headed to work at O'Hare and when we got off the El he walked us over to the exact spot where the bus was going to pick us up. So now we can add talking to strangers on the EL to our list of meeting strangers on the internet and cruising with them ;)

Tina, tell Tim that the crate of alochol is with Gary and Cindy and they will bring it to the next get together! We left it with them since they aren't big drinkers :rotfl2:

Glad to hear that Walker is feeling a whole lot better now. After he kept complaining after having the tylenol, I figured it had to be something more than cutting teeth. Nice of your dentist to come in on a Sunday evening for him.

Deanna's in bed, we rebandaged her leg, gave her some motrin and I'm sure she will be really stiff and sore tomorrow when she gets up. Deanna got in a fight with a treadmill this morning and lost. The kids were walking on the treadmills, Deanna got off her's and was walking behind another in motion treadmill and tripped. The treadmill was sanding some skin off her left arm and thigh. Now the funniest sight was Ryan running down to the restaurant to get her some ice. I wish we had a picture of it - he was in his bathing suit, no shirt and had 1 tennis shoe on. Thanks Ryan for getting the ice for her!
Can't wait for the next get together :Pinkbounc

[curtdennis]

Karen and I are home, safe and sound. I'll prob be on the desk tomorrow so I'll put in my 2cents worth on this weekend and post a gazillion pics (or at least the link to some).

I'd like to thank Cindy & Gary, the unofficial hosts, (and chauffeur - REALLY RYAN THAT WAS A BURRITO!!!)

Amy, Chris, and her brother and sil for the expert guidance of the CTA.

John, Gail, Chris, Mike, (und kinder), Tina, Tim, Mark & Mary for making another trip "home" a rousing success!!

I'd also like to thank my agent, my third grade teacher.... oh nevermind


Karen and I are in for a NY meet IN MAY we are done driving for the winter, not that this trip was bad (compared to some trips in the past this was NOTHING) but we've reached the driving cutoff date. No more long trips till the snow melts. Conditions get too ugly, too fast.

Nite all....

[RRBB]

Now I know I've joined the ranks of the frequent flyers. I'm a Continental OnePass member and with planned trips in December, I will be 4,400 miles short of reaching Platinum Elite. Anyone who travels a lot, can appreciate the advantages being at the top level provides. So, to make sure I get there, I booked a flight next Saturday to LAX that leaves NY at 4:45pm, gets me in at 8:08pm and then a return flight that leaves 7:00am the next morning and gets me home by 3:000pm. I called the airline to explore what my alternatives were and this was the best choice. They told me that what I am doing is far from unusual. Many business travelers spend the last week of the year just making up miles. All just to be a privileged flyer :rotfl2:
Good for you Sandy!

I did that once. I was 11,000 miles short of Executive Platinum on AA. I was just gonna let it go, but David encouraged me to find someplace to go to get those miles. The problem was my passport was expired and being that it was Y2K celebrations everywhere I didn't think Hawaii was an option. After a quick 1/2 day trip down to Houston to renew my passport, David and I hopped on a plane Christmas day and flew to Frankfurt, Germany. We had 3 hours to catch a breath of fresh air (walk outside for a minute), power shop in duty-free, and send a stack of postcards before getting back on the same plane for the return trip. Twenty-four hours later we landed back at DFW and I'd reached Executive Platinum!!!

[RRBB]

I have to brag on my 2 daughters. We found out last weekend that my oldest daughter (19) was accepted into Texas A&M for the spring semester. This is a big deal because, as I posted before the cruise, she had a massive stroke at age 17 in 2004. She is still impaired on her right side and had to start out her college career slowly at a local junior college to see if she could handle the course load, which put her behind in credit hours. At TAMU you must have 24 transfer credits to be accepted, but she only has 18. Well, one of the counselors suggested she try anyway so she did. The college considered her situation and saw that she was doing well academically and decided to accept her for the spring. She is very excited and we are so proud of her. So I guess now I am officially an Aggie Mom! My younger daughter (15) is in the advance placement art class at her high school. Their class has painted a large mural for our public safety department which will be dedicated this week. She also did a piece for the PTA Reflections contest that was selected to go to the state level. We are waiting to hear if she made it past state to the national level.

I have my CJ ready to go! I wanted to do it now because the holidays are crazy and we will be gone from Christmas to New Years. When we get back we have to go to TAMU for a transfer student orientation for a couple of days, then when I get back from that its time for my 15 year olds 16th birthday party! I knew I would be stressed and wanted this to be a fun project so I went ahead and did it before it gets too crazy around here. My theme is an alphabet book. I took the letter "A" so you can get an idea of what to do. My "A" page is "All Aboard" and it is the picture that was taken before we boarded the boat.Congrats to your daughters. What great accomplishements for both of them.

Wow, I can't believe you're ready to pass on your CJ. I've been working on my a little bit, but with everything else going on right now it's far from ready to go.

[RRBB]

Julie - the pages are from KOLO www.kolo.com (http://www.kolo.com/) . It is item # 300-2201. They are 8 1/2 x 11 landscape pages. The holes are not in the exact same spot but new ones can be punched. They are are cream color that matches up nice to the cream color pages in the front of the book. They come in a pack of 10.

Speaking of the book - one sheet of stickers says something about a map but we have no map in our book. Amy said she thought they did. Anyone else? Map or no map?Thanks for the info Mary. Ours are still sitting in a suitcase upstairs waiting for me to find a "home" for them, along with all the other goodies we brought back from the cruise. But it's good to know there are "good" pages available to replace the "bad" ones whe I do get around to pulling out those bricks.

[alikat99]

HI everyone!!! A quick post tonight and I'm off to bed!! We're home and we had a GREAT time in Chicago seeing everyone!!! Despite the snowstorm delaying our arrival into the Windy City, we had a BLAST and wish that it could have been longer.

I'm so sorry to hear that poor Walker was going through SO much pain, but I'm glad to hear that it's on the mend.

And, poor Deanna, I'm sad to hear that she hurt herself!!! I hope that she's better soon.

Well, off to bed because it's 12:45am and I need to be up at 6:30am. I'm with Cindy that I've had too many late nights and early mornings and I need my sleep. I'm sure that tomorrow night (or I guess that is tonight), I'll be going to bed VERY early!!

[WDWLVR]

Good morning everyone! Happy to hear everyone made it home safely.

Poor Walker and Deanna! Hopefully both are feeling better today.

Had a lot of fun at lunch and can't wait for our next meet!

[cgcw]

Tina, tell Tim that the crate of alochol is with Gary and Cindy and they will bring it to the next get together! We left it with them since they aren't big drinkers :rotfl2:

Well, it is kind of true. We don't usually make drinks at home -- a bottle of beer and/or cooler type thing is the most we do around here. It's our friends that show us over to the darker side. :teleport:

Annmarie, Tina & I made a couple of kool-aids Saturday night. Somehow they didn't taste as good as the ones on the ship. It could in part be because we didn't really use much of anything to measure with except the letter O on the solo cup -- and then Tina gave up on that and just added what she thought was 1/2. :teeth:

But.....Tina, tell Tim when he sees the crate that it will be a little empty compared to when he brought it into the hotel. A lot of the bottles went home with our Michigan friends and I don't believe they have any intentions of bringing them back to the next get together. :drinking1 :drinking1 :drinking1

[cgcw]

Well, off to bed because it's 12:45am and I need to be up at 6:30am. I'm with Cindy that I've had too many late nights and early mornings and I need my sleep. I'm sure that tomorrow night (or I guess that is tonight), I'll be going to bed VERY early!!

Amy, what time did you end up leaving Sunday morning.

Gary thought that he heard some light tapping at our door. Was it Madision & Emily or was he dreaming? Either way, the rest of us slept through it. I don't think we got up close to 9.

I was sound asleep last night by the time John & Gail and Curt & Karen arrived home. I heard they called and chatted with Gary. I'm sure it's going to be rough getting up in another 1/2 hour for them. The good news is Walker didn't wake up for any Tylenol during the night so he's feeling much better. I hope Deanna is too.

Before Ryan ran down for ice for Deanna, all he did was pop his head in and say I'm going to get some ice. It took a minute for us to realize that someone was hurt and then it took another minute for the kids to confess as to who it was. I'm sorry Deanna got hurt, but it was a good thing that it wasn't when she was on the treadmill and behind it instead. And, I heard that she had the wits about her to tell Cameron to turn it off as her leg as being sanded.

[alikat99]

Amy, what time did you end up leaving Sunday morning.

Gary thought that he heard some light tapping at our door. Was it Madision & Emily or was he dreaming? Either way, the rest of us slept through it. I don't think we got up close to 9.


We ended up leaving the hotel around 8:45am. I know that Emily and Madison were lightly knocking on Gail's door about 8:30 for one last goodbye to Deanna, but no one answered. So, they slipped their little drawings under the door and we were out of there.

[WDWLVR]

Annmarie, Tina & I made a couple of kool-aids Saturday night.

Annmarie was here and I missed her? Darn! :lmao:

[#1Mouse]

We ended up leaving the hotel around 8:45am. I know that Emily and Madison were lightly knocking on Gail's door about 8:30 for one last goodbye to Deanna, but no one answered. So, they slipped their little drawings under the door and we were out of there.

I heard knocking on the door, but it was so light I thought it was someone at your door. Then I heard the papers being slid under the door and realized it must have been the girls. By the time I got out of bed you guys were gone. When Deanna woke up, I gave her the drawings.

Glad to hear you guys made it back home - I guess it was a much quicker trip than Fridays flight.

[alikat99]

I heard knocking on the door, but it was so light I thought it was someone at your door. Then I heard the papers being slid under the door and realized it must have been the girls. By the time I got out of bed you guys were gone. When Deanna woke up, I gave her the drawings.

Glad to hear you guys made it back home - I guess it was a much quicker trip than Fridays flight.
Yes, it was a MUCH quicker flight back to Tampa, and WARM when we got off the plane. Actually, it wasn't warm for Tampa, but compared to Chicago, it was a heat wave.

I told the girls not to knock loud, because I didn't want you guys to get up if you were asleep still. I figured if you guys were up, then they could say a quick goodbye, but I didn't want to be the ones to wake you up.

[sanddune]

I'm taking votes for the next MI,IL ,OH and NY meet.Where and when? If it's going to be in the winter we better go half way in between IL and NY. Or we could wait for spring?

OH,IL and MI meet? Feb or March? Then maybe another in May?Hey, I know lets meet in FL!:rotfl2:

Checking on Cedar Point too.

[#1Mouse]

I'm taking votes for the next MI,IL ,OH and NY meet.Where and when? If it's going to be in the winter we better go half way in between IL and NY. Or we could wait for spring?

OH,IL and MI meet? Feb or March? Then maybe another in May?Hey, I know lets meet in FL!:rotfl2:

Checking on Cedar Point too.

Usually anytime is fine with us. We do have a WDW trip planned in Feb so that will be taking up 2 weekends for that month.

Cleveland is about 1/2 way between Chicago and Albany (ok a bit closer to Chicago but there isn't much just East of Cleveland).

I'm all for the meet in Florida - I'm sure it will be warmer!

[RRBB]

I'm so jealous that y'all have gotten together not once but twice since the cruise. But it's nice to hear about all the fun things y'all have done together. I wish we could have made the meets. But with all that's going on around here lately, plus the fact that David can't get off work between Nov1 and Jan1 because it's holiday season, well there's just no way we could have made either. (Plus, I really hate cold weather so I doubt I would have been much fun at this last one.)

Yikes! An abscess and a run-in with a treadmill? I sure hope both Walker and Deanna are on the mend today and feeling better.

[Tiger Lily 03]

I'm so jealous that y'all have gotten together not once but twice since the cruise. But it's nice to hear about all the fun things y'all have done together. I wish we could have made the meets. But with all that's going on around here lately, ..., well there's just no way we could have made either....

Yikes! An abscess and a run-in with a treadmill? I sure hope both Walker and Deanna are on the mend today and feeling better.What she said!

[sanddune]

I called Cedar Point .

The cabins, we can book now.The only problem is the 07 rates aren't out. So, we would book under 06 rates and hope they didn't go up.The rate is 260 a night ,plus 11 .5 % tax.(July and not the group rate.Waiting on the planner for a group price.)
The cabins can sleep 6 or 8 people. It depends if the cabin has 2 or 1 futon/s in the main room.
There are other options.... look up Cedar point. They have the local hotels too. Let me know what you all want.
When we have total count I'll call for a group rate hopfuly!(we have to have at least 10 cabins to get a group booking)
PS. I was wrong on the # of cabins and cottages.
Cabins -40
Cottages-64

[Tiger Lily 03]

I'm taking votes for the next MI,IL ,OH and NY meet.Where and when? If it's going to be in the winter we better go half way in between IL and NY. Or we could wait for spring?

OH,IL and MI meet? Feb or March? Then maybe another in May?Hey, I know lets meet in FL!:rotfl2:

Checking on Cedar Point too.I'm hoping we can make one or two of these.

[WDWLVR]

I thought we were doing the cottages (the ones right on the lake) not the cabins.

Either way we are fine with that (the cottages look very cute) or the hotels. As long as we are all together and on site. We'd just prefer not to have to drive once we get there. Much like at Disney. So if we can walk or shuttle to/from the park we'll be fine.

[sanddune]

I'm hoping we can make one or two of these.
I hope you do! We miss you!

[sanddune]

I thought we were doing the cottages (the ones right on the lake) not the cabins.

Either way we are fine with that (the cottages look very cute) or the hotels. As long as we are all together and on site. We'd just prefer not to have to drive once we get there. Much like at Disney. So if we can walk or shuttle to/from the park we'll be fine.
The cottages are fine too. I think they only sleep 5 or less though. I'm waiting on the group planner to call me back.;)

[Tiger Lily 03]

Hi Everyone,

Just stopping in to say Thanks and to say hi. Glad everyone had fun in Chicago. Its still hard for me to sit at my cpu for long periods.

btw someone went to the ssr meeting and dvc said despite the negative feedback they were planning on staying with a lottery, also they say they are working on a payment system.
post is here: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=15812988&postcount=2 :wave2: Hi Cherlyl! glad to hear you are on the "other side" of the surgery. Hope you continue to improve quickly. Thanks for that link.

[cgcw]

Chris,


We are in for Cedar Point, however, I have to say, DVC has spoiled me. The thought of paying $300+ per night for a place to hang out and sleep makes me gulp. I'm not saying I won't pay it, I'm just wondering if that's our best option.

Once I have a chance, I will take a look at the cedar point website and see all the options out there.

I know that Curt & Karen talked about staying at a nice place (Hampton Inn????) that was not affiliated with Cedar Point but still close enough.

[curtdennis]

Howdy All,

Here is something for you to do, pictures from this weekend. That's right someone let John have a napkin and the fun just started from there.

Enjoy...

http://new.photos.yahoo.com/curtdennis/album/576460762360889211
Now about the next get together. I'm reluctant to drive through the wilds of winter for and "extended" period. Cleveland to the east would prob be my max until the snow melts. I've done a lot of winter driving and I have enough gray in my hair. -- SO I VOTE APRIL in Cleveland, ah Cleveland in the spring... Maybe we can coordinate the lighting of Lake Erie? --- Sorry it's that whole BCS thing..

Any way that is my 1 cent. With the bad joke I discounted.

Lurking in peace,

[curtdennis]

Chris,


We are in for Cedar Point, however, I have to say, DVC has spoiled me. The thought of paying $300+ per night for a place to hang out and sleep makes me gulp. I'm not saying I won't pay it, I'm just wondering if that's our best option.

Once I have a chance, I will take a look at the cedar point website and see all the options out there.

I know that Curt & Karen talked about staying at a nice place (Hampton Inn????) that was not affiliated with Cedar Point but still close enough.

We stay at the Hampton just off the Turnpike in Milan, OH. HOWEVER, it is WAY off property, approx. 14 miles away. - BUT very reasonably priced (breakfasts and internet included with your stay - something to think about).

Getting to the park from this location is VERY easy and getting rooms together at this place WILL BE NO PROBLEM.

This is the link for that location: http://www.hamptoninn.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml;jsessionid=OIU2TTIYHSJ1WCSGBIX222QKIYF CXUUC?ctyhocn=SKYMLHX

[chipscinderelly]

Great photos Curt - my favorites are the one of you and Karen, the one of the Marshall Field's tree (Yes not the MACY's tree ;) ) and the group ones from lunch.

Looks like you guys had a blast.

Ok $300 per night is too rich for our blood for one couple esp since we'll be flying in :) is that for the whole cabin thingy or a couple? Thanks Chris for taking care of all of this!

[curtdennis]

the one of the Marshall Field's tree (Yes not the MACY's tree ;) ).

Funny that you mention that... When we were walking around, looking at the windows for this year there was a guy hawking a web site www.fieldsischicago.org (http://www.fieldsischicago.org) and trying to get people not to shop at Macy's cause of the name change. Your right, Marshal Fields - never Macy's.

But then Marshal Fields gobbled up Hudson's here in Michigan so I guess there is always a bigger fish.

[sanddune]

Great photos Curt - my favorites are the one of you and Karen, the one of the Marshall Field's tree (Yes not the MACY's tree ;) ) and the group ones from lunch.

Looks like you guys had a blast.

Ok $300 per night is too rich for our blood for one couple esp since we'll be flying in :) is that for the whole cabin thingy or a couple? Thanks Chris for taking care of all of this!
That's for the whole cabin.So you could get 3 couples to share one.
Curt's right we can stay off site alot cheaper. If you don't want to be off site there is a cheaper option .It's called Breakers Express. But they are still high for what you get.;)

[chipscinderelly]

Funny that you mention that... When we were walking around, looking at the windows for this year there was a guy hawking a web site www.fieldsischicago.org (http://www.fieldsischicago.org/) and trying to get people not to shop at Macy's cause of the name change. Your right, Marshal Fields - never Macy's.

But then Marshal Fields gobbled up Hudson's here in Michigan so I guess there is always a bigger fish.

Ok while I miss Fields that organization is interesting - do they think Fields can come back or is it more they are mad at Macy's? We shop at Macy's now and it is nice that my family in the midwest could see our wedding items in the store :)

[sanddune]

The Hampton is running $139 plus have to add tax a night for 2 DBL. The king room is 159 a night plus add tax. Over $100 between the two!(cabins/cottages or $100 less at Hampton?;) But we would have to drive to and back from the park.:confused3 )

[cgcw]

That's for the whole cabin.So you could get 3 couples to share one.
Curt's right we can stay off site alot cheaper. If you don't want to be off site there is a cheaper option .It's called Breakers Express. But they are still high for what you get.;)

:badpc:

My entire post just went poof!!!

:badpc:


Anyway, I found the difference between the cabin & cottages. It's the number of people who can be in one or the other.

Cottages sleep up to 6 people

Cabins sleep up to 8 people with a loft for kids (I'm not sure if the kids are included in the 8 or not)



What I don't see is if the cabins/cottages or Breakers Point are in walking distance to the park.

[cgcw]

The Hampton is running $139 plus have to add tax a night for 2 DBL. The king room is 159 a night plus add tax. Over $100 between the two!(cabins/cottages or $100 less at Hampton?;) But we would have to drive to and back from the park.:confused3 )

This is sounding better and better to me. ::yes::

[sanddune]

:badpc:

My entire post just went poof!!!

:badpc:


Anyway, I found the difference between the cabin & cottages. It's the number of people who can be in one or the other.

Cottages sleep up to 6 people

Cabins sleep up to 8 people with a loft for kids (I'm not sure if the kids are included in the 8 or not)



What I don't see is if the cabins/cottages or Breakers Point are in walking distance to the park.Cindy ,you got it! The reason I quoted the cabins is because we could share some.;) They do have a shuttle and you could walk.If you wanted.;)
They include 2 kids in the loft in the count for the cabins.

[cgcw]

Cindy ,you got it! The reason I quoted the cabins is because we could share some.;) They do have a shuttle and you could walk.If you wanted.;)

I have no problem sharing a cabin with others -- provided who ever that is doesn't mind putting up with my family. It's a package deal.....all or none! ;)

[sanddune]

I don't care where we stay. I just want the cost to be right for all of us!:sunny:

[cgcw]

Cindy ,you got it! The reason I quoted the cabins is because we could share some.;) They do have a shuttle and you could walk.If you wanted.;)


UGH! :badpc: :badpc: Maybe I'm suppose to be taking a nap this afternoon and not posting on the DIS. :badpc:


Ah, geez, now I'm repeating myself.

[chipscinderelly]

I have no problem sharing a cabin with others -- provided who ever that is doesn't mind putting up with my family. It's a package deal.....all or none! ;)

LOL you mean we can't pick and choose?

[Diana Lyn]

I don't care where we stay. I just want the cost to be right for all of us!:sunny:

I figure this is the best post to quote on the subject!

I'm all for staying "off property". Hampton in is fine. Bruce calls them the ANTon in because the last one we stayed at was completely ant infested. But it wasn't in Ohio, so we're OK there! We've had great experiences at the Country Inn and Suites in Ohio. We've stayed at several, none near Cedar Point, I don't know if there's one nearby. They are cheap, and all are pretty new.

I'm not familiar with the area, but is there another cabin camping site relatively nearby? I mean it's right on the lake right, there has to be something! Maybe an outdoor cabin location would better suit the rowdy group.

And Julie--I'd invite you guys to stay with us, but you SO don't want my kids in the same cabin and you all night long! :lmao:

[sanddune]

LOL you mean we can't pick and choose?
LOL that could get Ugly!:rotfl:

[cgcw]

I don't care where we stay. I just want the cost to be right for all of us!:sunny:

I agree with you. The idea of being with friends for the weekend outweighs all else. It will be fun to have a long weekend together. I think the main thing is that we come to an agreement where to stay so we all stay together because that's what's going to make it the most fun!

Even though Tina & Tim drove back and forth both Friday and Saturday nights, I'm sure if things had been different for them that weekend, they would have prefered to just opened their hotel room door instead. What I'm trying to say is that if there are some who want to go but chose another location, that's fine and good but personally, where the group decides to stay is where we are going to be staying, even if it is $300+ per night (yet that wouldn't be my 1st choice).

Has anyone else noticed we our weekends are getting longer and longer. We started with 1 night in MI, now 2 nights in Chicago and in July it will be 3 night in OH. :cool1:

[cgcw]

LOL you mean we can't pick and choose?

It depends. We may be able to work out a deal. How much do I have to pay you to take Walker? ;)

[sanddune]

I figure this is the best post to quote on the subject!

I'm all for staying "off property". Hampton in is fine. Bruce calls them the ANTon in because the last one we stayed at was completely ant infested. But it wasn't in Ohio, so we're OK there! We've had great experiences at the Country Inn and Suites in Ohio. We've stayed at several, none near Cedar Point, I don't know if there's one nearby. They are cheap, and all are pretty new.

I'm not familiar with the area, but is there another cabin camping site relatively nearby? I mean it's right on the lake right, there has to be something! Maybe an outdoor cabin location would better suit the rowdy group.

And Julie--I'd invite you guys to stay with us, but you SO don't want my kids in the same cabin and you all night long! :lmao:
Diana ,
There are plenty of places to look at. We just need everyone to think of what budget we want and go from there.I don't think we will get under a 100 anight. But I'll try my hardest to find it!

[cgcw]

Diana ,
There are plenty of places to look at. We just need everyone to think of what budget we want and go from there.I don't think we will get under a 100 anight. But I'll try my hardest to find it!

Okay, here comes the snob in me.

I really don't want to stay in a place that's going to be $100 in high season. We paid that in Michigan and IL for non-tourist times and had wonderful places to stay. I'm just thinking that at $100 in high season, we're going to regret what we didn't pay for if that makes sense.

[WDWLVR]

Just throwing my 2 cents in. If we aren't staying on property we most likely won't be coming. We hadn't planned on 3 nights - only 2 (Friday night and Saturday). Coming home sometime on Sunday. We also aren't commando park people and would most likely want to take a mid-day break to relax.

Now we are only 2 people and the meet will go just as well without us so if the group votes for off site that is great we just won't be part of it. Sorry.

[MaryJ]

I'm taking votes for the next MI,IL ,OH and NY meet.Where and when? If it's going to be in the winter we better go half way in between IL and NY. Or we could wait for spring?

OH,IL and MI meet? Feb or March? Then maybe another in May?Hey, I know lets meet in FL!:rotfl2:

Checking on Cedar Point too.
I would actually vote for Indianapolis. It's halfway between IL and OH, and I might actually be able to make it! March would be better than Feb. though. Indiana can still get nasty weather in Feb. I would suggest St. Patrick's Day weekend or the week after to play it safe.

[sanddune]

Just throwing my 2 cents in. If we aren't staying on property we most likely won't be coming. We hadn't planned on 3 nights - only 2 (Friday night and Saturday). Coming home sometime on Sunday. We also aren't commando park people and would most likely want to take a mid-day break to relax.

Now we are only 2 people and the meet will go just as well without us so if the group votes for off site that is great we just won't be part of it. Sorry.
I don't want anyone to fell bad. We are going to have a fun time! I think some of us are planning on staying longer than others. But the big meet will be on the Friday - Sunday morning.We could have more than one hotel location. Some could choose to stay on site and some off. We all could just meet at one hotel later.

[MaryJ]

It doesn't really matter to me where we stay. However, if we decide to do onsite, the only way I could talk Ken into it is if we stay with another family. There's no way he will pay that much otherwise.

And, I think that two nights (Fri and Sat, coming home on Sunday) will be all we'll be able to do. We have an out of town wedding the weekend before, so he won't want to be away from work on Monday. It's at least an 8 hour drive for us.

[WDWLVR]

Chris - no hard feelings at all. Honest. I can't remember who first mentioned it but someone suggested the cottages so that the kids could all play on the lawn and the adults could chill in lawn chairs and grill etc. That sounded cool to us. Not having to get the group in a large restaurant etc. We were planning on bringing our grill to go and even making breakfast on it. We are however flexible and if the group wanted to stay in a hotel onsite we'd be fine with that.

We aren't big coaster people so if we are coming it is more for the group than the coasters but we'd still want to see the park and still enjoy our downtime.

If we make the decision not to come based on what the group wants know that it is just us being honest about what we want and not anything against the group. As I said I'm sure everyone would have a great time with or without us.

[sanddune]

Ok the group planner called. On site pricing
These are 06 prices. She says they will be going up a little.


Hotel Breakers Express on site-$120 plus add tax a night 2 Queen beds Does not include parking

Cottages-lake view sleeps 6-$260 a night plus add tax.
2 futons in living room,1 DBL and Bunks in bedroom. You could save alittle in food here.Mini frig,toaster,cofee maker & microwave.Bring an in door grill or frying pan you got a kitchen!This includes free parking $10 dollars a day.

Cabins-sleeps 7 or 8 Size of kids in loft-255 plus add tax a night.Mini frig,toaster,cofee maker & microwave.Bring an in door grill or frying pan you got a kitchen! This includes free parking.
2 futons in living area
1 DBL in bedroom
loft
Plus there is a middle hotel in between the breaker express prices and the cabin prices.

[cgcw]

Ok the group planner called. On site pricing
These are 06 prices. She says they will be going up a little.


Hotel Breakers Express on site-$120 plus add tax a night 2 Queen beds Does not include parking

Cottages-lake view sleeps 6-$260 a night plus add tax.
2 futons in living room,1 DBL and Bunks in bedroom. This includes free parking $10 dollars a day.

Cabins-sleeps 7 or 8 Size of kids in loft-255 plus add tax a night. This includes free parking.
2 futons in living area
1 DBL in bedroom
loft
Plus there is a middle hotel in between the breaker express prices and the cabin prices.

I'd like to see this work for everyone.


Is the Breaker Express in walking distance to the park?

The middle priced hotel, is that walking distance to the park?

Are we comfortable as a group to share a cabin??

Are the cabins & Cottages together? Does anyone know. As in, if someone decides to do a cottage on their own, will they be interspursed with the cabins? Would we all still be in the same area?


Personally, I don't mind spending like $200 per night. I don't really want to go much higher than that, as we are making the week of it someplace between here and there and will have other expenses we need to plan for that week.

[cgcw]

And, don't forget, we are all going to need tickets (maybe not Erin, Rick & Nick ;) )

Cedar Point Funday

Ages 3-61, 48" and taller.

$41.95

[/url]

Cedar Point Junior Funday

Age 3 and older, under 48" tall in shoes.

$11.95

(http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/admission/tickets/tickets.cfm)

Cedar Point Senior Funday

Age 62 and over.

$11.95



Ride & Slide 2-Day

Ages 3-61, 48" and taller. Ride & Slide Ticket will admit one guest to both Cedar Point and Soak City for any two regular season days.

$69.95

(http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/admission/tickets/tickets.cfm)

Ride & Slide 2-Day Senior

Age 62 and over. Ride & Slide Senior Ticket will admit one guest to both Cedar Point and Soak City for any two regular season days.

$29.95

[url="http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/admission/tickets/tickets.cfm"]

Ride & Slide 2-Day Junior

Age 3 and over; under 48" tall. Ride & Slide Junior Ticket will admit one guest to both Cedar Point and Soak City for any two regular season days.

[sanddune]

And, don't forget, we are all going to need tickets (maybe not Erin, Rick & Nick ;) )

Cedar Point Funday

Ages 3-61, 48" and taller.

$41.95



Cedar Point Junior Funday

Age 3 and older, under 48" tall in shoes.

$11.95



Cedar Point Senior Funday

Age 62 and over.

$11.95



Ride & Slide 2-Day

Ages 3-61, 48" and taller. Ride & Slide Ticket will admit one guest to both Cedar Point and Soak City for any two regular season days.

$69.95



Ride & Slide 2-Day Senior

Age 62 and over. Ride & Slide Senior Ticket will admit one guest to both Cedar Point and Soak City for any two regular season days.

$29.95



Ride & Slide 2-Day Junior

Age 3 and over; under 48" tall. Ride & Slide Junior Ticket will admit one guest to both Cedar Point and Soak City for any two regular season days.
Thanks Cindy.We all need to plan for the ticket price also.:thumbsup2

[sanddune]

I'd like to see this work for everyone.


Is the Breaker Express in walking distance to the park?

The middle priced hotel, is that walking distance to the park?

Are we comfortable as a group to share a cabin??

Are the cabins & Cottages together? Does anyone know. As in, if someone decides to do a cottage on their own, will they be interspursed with the cabins? Would we all still be in the same area?


Personally, I don't mind spending like $200 per night. I don't really want to go much higher than that, as we are making the week of it someplace between here and there and will have other expenses we need to plan for that week.
She said that they have shuttles from on site hotels.Plus you could park your own car/truck in the general parking at the park if you wanted.Some of the hotels are closer to walk than others to the park.

[chipscinderelly]

OOh the 2 day ticket is almost cheaper than a one day WDW ticket! Thanks Cindy for that information :)

[sanddune]

I'm going to say something and I hope it doesn't hurt anyone. Just an idea...We all need to pick a hotel for sleeping and price for our family.

The meet could be at an onsite or off site hotel after ,before what ever.The idea is to go to the park and meet with everyone.We do not have to stay at the same hotels. All of the Sandusky hotels are within 5 to 10 minutes of each other. It's not that great a deal to share rides or meet at other places.

I want what is best for your families. We will all have fun but we may have to book more than one hotel/s.:goodvibes

[IleneF]

LOL, I know the stage crew it is an important job, but it isn't that glamorous when posting about it. He was in one play (A Few Good Men) last year, but on the crew of all the others. That is where he is comfortable and happy. I wouldn't dream of missing seeing a play that he is on the crew of. :goodvibes

Marla,
Another coincidence between our sons. Mine was ALWAYS on stage crew..did lighting and loved it. I always wished I could see him on stage but also knew he was comfortable where he was. He got hired once after that by an outside agency to do lighting for a performance. I think he just liked wearing the black tshirts that said "crew", LOL.

[IleneF]

Now I know I've joined the ranks of the frequent flyers. Many business travelers spend the last week of the year just making up miles. All just to be a privileged flyer :rotfl2:

That is too funny, Sandy. So what kind of "priviledges" are there?

[IleneF]

One of the Business' that had a Chocolate Fountain was Saratoga Sweets, they are famous for the Peppermint Pig (the one sold at SSR).

I bought that pig one year for New Years Eve. It's an interesting tradition/story around it. We were with some friends on a Boston Harbor cruise and wanted to do something special and so the "pig". It was fun.

[IleneF]

The rate is 260 a night ,plus 11 .5 % tax.
I don't know if money is an issue for you guys or not but we stayed just outside the park (sounds so funny saying that as we NEVER stay outside WDW)at the Holiday Inn Express. This was about three years ago and it was brand new. The cost was $99/night and it was very nice.

[IleneF]

Ahhh, should have read ahead. It may have been the Breakers Express where we stayed...I'm thinking it was. I thought it was off site but truth be told it was less than five minutes away so maybe they are calling that onsite.

I wish I could come to this but I think you are all planning this the weekend I have to recertify by test or the weekend of my conference in Chicago I forget. Still haven't given up totally. What were the dates again.

Mary I just love coasters and so this park BUT I recall the "shows" being alot of fun too.

[gometros]

Glad to hear everyone had a great time!

How about everyone just coming here in February! I'm tired of missing out on these meets and we have plenty of room! :lmao:

Albany area in February? There's a reason that they hold a winter festival in Lake George :rotfl2:

[gometros]

Good for you Sandy!

I did that once. I was 11,000 miles short of Executive Platinum on AA. I was just gonna let it go, but David encouraged me to find someplace to go to get those miles. The problem was my passport was expired and being that it was Y2K celebrations everywhere I didn't think Hawaii was an option. After a quick 1/2 day trip down to Houston to renew my passport, David and I hopped on a plane Christmas day and flew to Frankfurt, Germany. We had 3 hours to catch a breath of fresh air (walk outside for a minute), power shop in duty-free, and send a stack of postcards before getting back on the same plane for the return trip. Twenty-four hours later we landed back at DFW and I'd reached Executive Platinum!!!

Now that one ups my story. I thought I was going to need more miles and if I did, I was considering flying to Europe too. Glad I didn't need that many.

[gometros]

I'm so jealous that y'all have gotten together not once but twice since the cruise. But it's nice to hear about all the fun things y'all have done together. I wish we could have made the meets. But with all that's going on around here lately, plus the fact that David can't get off work between Nov1 and Jan1 because it's holiday season, well there's just no way we could have made either. (Plus, I really hate cold weather so I doubt I would have been much fun at this last one.)

Yikes! An abscess and a run-in with a treadmill? I sure hope both Walker and Deanna are on the mend today and feeling better.

I should be in Dallas sometime in February on business. We can have a mini-meet with matt and Julie :goodvibes

[RRBB]

I should be in Dallas sometime in February on business. We can have a mini-meet with matt and Julie :goodvibesThat would be great. We'd love to see you. And we'd have to get rtwhite to meet up with us, too! ::yes::

[gometros]

That is too funny, Sandy. So what kind of "priviledges" are there?

Frequent upgrades to business/first class, access to the President's Club (the airport lounge), among many.

[gometros]

That would be great. We'd love to see you. And we'd have to get rtwhite to meet up with us, too! ::yes::

I forgot there was another Texan in the group.

[chipscinderelly]

I'm cracking up cause you guys are talking about Platinum and Exec Platinum and while I used to be plat now I am just gold and I thought that I was going to need a trip this year to make it in segments (won't make it on miles or points I don't think as no asia trip this year)... but nope, going to make it on 30 segments exactly!

The only perk for us is earning upgrades (hard to do) and geetting on the plane earlier!

[Stitch#1]

Sounds and Looks like a good time was had by all at the Chicago meet!!
Poor Walker, having an absess (sp?) tooth. Nick has had them before. One time the dentist had to point it out to me because it wasn't bothering Nick since it was draining.
Ouchy for poor Deanna! Road rash from a treadmill, I can't even imagine what that feels like
Hope both kids are feeling better! :wizard:

Chris - Thanks for the update in Cedar Point. I have to admit too like Cindy Disney has spoiled us and $300/night is a bit rich for my blood too. I would be happy in anyplace that is clean, where we could all afford to go and be near each other. While being close and not having to drive to and from the park would be nice it is not necessary.

[Romandel]

Sorry my absence folks but my hard drive completely blew up and I had to get it redone. What a total pain. Luckily I had just done a download of everyone's email address and what documents I had on Word to see if my DVD was working otherwise I would have lost everything.

It took a week to get it back up and running and then my USB DSL modem died and it took them another week to send that!

I am glad you all had a great meet in Chicago and everyone made it there and back home in 1 piece. We have had some snow up here, only had to shovel once so far but it has been cold and lots of snow flurries but not really sticking around--just enough to screw up traffic etc.

Glad Walker and Deanna are on the mend.

Count us in for Cedar Point--would like to keep the cost down like Cindy said but we may be able to swing whatever. Cindy I could take Walker if you will take Cameron that way when you yell for Cameron, both will answer--easier to keep track of them! Tyler asks all the time when we can visit his new friends. He does not understand that Walker and Nick live "far" away--he thinks they are just on the other side of town and we should just drive there.

For those who found the replacement sheets for the "Cruise Album" did you take the disney sheets out and replaced them with those from the store or what did you do? I will likely have to order them and have them shipped up here as I have not found anything to fit or work with the current pages.

For the "real tree" question, yes we have a real tree and will be going out this Saturday to a tree farm to pick it out, cut it down ourselves and drag it (oops, carry it oh so gently) back to the car. They usually have a bonfire with hot chocolate, marshmallows and hay rides happening so that it is really a great time unless it rains and then it is a mud field and not pleasant at all.

Jacqui

[BriarRose59]

I'm so jealous that y'all have gotten together not once but twice since the cruise. But it's nice to hear about all the fun things y'all have done together. I wish we could have made the meets. But with all that's going on around here lately, plus the fact that David can't get off work between Nov1 and Jan1 because it's holiday season, well there's just no way we could have made either. (Plus, I really hate cold weather so I doubt I would have been much fun at this last one.)

We'll have to remedy the situation by having another meet to catch up since we have had only one. This time Julie and Matt will hopefully be able to come. Let's try to set one up right after the holidays.


I should be in Dallas sometime in February on business. We can have a mini-meet with matt and Julie :goodvibes

Come on down! I would love to meet you! See you in February.

[Stitch#1]

Sorry my absence folks but my hard drive completely blew up and I had to get it redone.
Jacqui

Welcome back Jacqui!!!
Yikes sounds like you had a heck of a time with your computer!
Glad your back and glad you want to do Cedar Point!
Once we get all the little things hashed out this will be one heck of a weekend!

[Romandel]

Stacy,

Any snow your way yet? I am thinking of heading the Platsburgh or somewhere around there maybe over Christmas, and also do some skiing in Quebec but the crazy winter weather has me a little leery about that plan.

Jacqui

[cgcw]

I wish I could come to this but I think you are all planning this the weekend I have to recertify by test or the weekend of my conference in Chicago I forget. Still haven't given up totally. What were the dates again.


We are talking about the weekend of July 13th.




Here's something else I thought of in our planning. The park hours are already posted on their site (I wish Disney would do this so far in advance!).

Friday, 7/13 -- 10AM-10PM
Saturday, 7/14 -- 10AM-11PM
Sunday, 7/15 -- 10AM-10PM

We were talking earlier about how our group decided to do Cedar Point because we wanted to go the park. If we were looking for a place to hang out and not do the park, we could probably find some place a lot less expensive to do that without the added draw of Cedar Point. I know a lot of people want to make a day of hanging out at the Park. I know most likely my famiy would so I'm wondering, along the lines of what Chris said, how important is it really for us to stay at the same place? I'm thinking this trip is going to be different from the MI or IL trip that we did the last couple of months. I'm thinking that we're probably going to not spend as much time hanging out at the hotel, maybe we'll meet up at the park, but for the most part, it's hard to do a theme park with a huge group so we're going to have to split up and maybe meet later for dinner or lunch or whatever.

[Stitch#1]

Stacy,

Any snow your way yet? I am thinking of heading the Platsburgh or somewhere around there maybe over Christmas, and also do some skiing in Quebec but the crazy winter weather has me a little leery about that plan.

Jacqui

Just a slight dusting this morning here in the Albany area but no accumilation.
It's been pretty cold the last couple of days and we may get a little snow later in the week.

[sanddune]

We are talking about the weekend of July 13th.




Here's something else I thought of in our planning. The park hours are already posted on their site (I wish Disney would do this so far in advance!).

Friday, 7/13 -- 10AM-10PM
Saturday, 7/14 -- 10AM-11PM
Sunday, 7/15 -- 10AM-10PM

We were talking earlier about how our group decided to do Cedar Point because we wanted to go the park. If we were looking for a place to hang out and not do the park, we could probably find some place a lot less expensive to do that without the added draw of Cedar Point. I know a lot of people want to make a day of hanging out at the Park. I know most likely my famiy would so I'm wondering, along the lines of what Chris said, how important is it really for us to stay at the same place? I'm thinking this trip is going to be different from the MI or IL trip that we did the last couple of months. I'm thinking that we're probably going to not spend as much time hanging out at the hotel, maybe we'll meet up at the park, but for the most part, it's hard to do a theme park with a huge group so we're going to have to split up and maybe meet later for dinner or lunch or whatever.Cindy ,I think just having meets with in the park or later after the park at dinner time would work. But everyone staying at the sme hotel might not.It's like going to Disney. They have themes to their hotels and the prices go with them.I think I'll post alot of price options ,themes and you can pick for your family.

[Stitch#1]

Well I just took a quick peek at the Cedar Point website.
The Hotel Breakers looks nice and it looks like they have the most restaurants there too. Just an observation.
I did the photo tour to look at the rooms.

[cgcw]

Hi Jacqui, nice to see you again. :wave:

Count us in for Cedar Point--would like to keep the cost down like Cindy said but we may be able to swing whatever. Cindy I could take Walker if you will take Cameron that way when you yell for Cameron, both will answer--easier to keep track of them! Tyler asks all the time when we can visit his new friends. He does not understand that Walker and Nick live "far" away--he thinks they are just on the other side of town and we should just drive there.


Walker would love to see Tyler. Like Tyler, Walker doesn't understand that Nick and Tyler don't just live here and can't get together all the time. OH & Canada are no farther to him that the trip to school or store or whereever. I know he would love to see them and am glad to hear that your planning on Cedar Point.

As for my taking Cameron and you taking Walker, it's a deal. I don't know your Cameron very well but my Cameron has always been a much easier child than his younger brother.

[sanddune]

Well I just took a quick peek at the Cedar Point website.
The Hotel Breakers looks nice and it looks like they have the most restaurants there too. Just an observation.
I did the photo tour to look at the rooms.
Stacy , That would be where Mike and I would like to go.;) But there is also a holidome offsite with in 6 miles of the park.I'm going to price out different options and let each famiy choose what they want.:goodvibes

[cherylp3]

For the Michigan folks $8 fares from Detroit!!
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1292198

[cgcw]

Cheryl, how are you feeling? I would think a little better this week? :goodvibes

[sanddune]

http://resorts.cedarpoint.com/_upload/pdfs//DrivingMap03.pdf
this is a map of the onsite hotels and where the park is.I'll try and post other maps of off site hotels compaired to the park.

[cgcw]

Well I just took a quick peek at the Cedar Point website.
The Hotel Breakers looks nice and it looks like they have the most restaurants there too. Just an observation.
I did the photo tour to look at the rooms.

:rotfl2: First thing I see on the Hotel Breakers site.......Beaches & Cream! ;)

[sanddune]

http://resorts.cedarpoint.com/
this is Cedar points website for looking at the hotels.

[crzy4dals]

Usually anytime is fine with us. We do have a WDW trip planned in Feb so that will be taking up 2 weekends for that month.

Cleveland is about 1/2 way between Chicago and Albany (ok a bit closer to Chicago but there isn't much just East of Cleveland).

I'm all for the meet in Florida - I'm sure it will be warmer!

Hey that is us.... "just east of Cleveland" :cool1:

[cgcw]

Here is a comparison of the different onsite resorts at Cedar Point:

http://resorts.cedarpoint.com/public/compare.cfm


I think their Castaway Bay would be an awesome place to spend a long weekend, without even stepping foot into Cedar Point. :thumbsup2 I don't mean in July, but maybe some other time.

[crzy4dals]

I agree with you. The idea of being with friends for the weekend outweighs all else. It will be fun to have a long weekend together. I think the main thing is that we come to an agreement where to stay so we all stay together because that's what's going to make it the most fun!

Even though Tina & Tim drove back and forth both Friday and Saturday nights, I'm sure if things had been different for them that weekend, they would have prefered to just opened their hotel room door instead. What I'm trying to say is that if there are some who want to go but chose another location, that's fine and good but personally, where the group decides to stay is where we are going to be staying, even if it is $300+ per night (yet that wouldn't be my 1st choice).

Has anyone else noticed we our weekends are getting longer and longer. We started with 1 night in MI, now 2 nights in Chicago and in July it will be 3 night in OH. :cool1:

And in the near future is 7 days on a cruise somewhere.

[RRBB]

I'm cracking up cause you guys are talking about Platinum and Exec Platinum and while I used to be plat now I am just gold and I thought that I was going to need a trip this year to make it in segments (won't make it on miles or points I don't think as no asia trip this year)... but nope, going to make it on 30 segments exactly!

The only perk for us is earning upgrades (hard to do) and getting on the plane earlier!Don't forget the extra points you earn - gold 25% of travelled (or minumum) miles, platinum & executive platinum 100% of travelled (or minumum) miles.

And once you reach a total of 1,000,000 program miles - earned any way you can - you become gold for life. David and I are both currently working toward 2,000,000 total progam miles which would make us platinum for life. (He's nearly there, I have about 200,000 to go.)

[sanddune]

Here is the holidome it looks nice. It would make a great meeting spot for families outside the park. http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/hi/1/en/hotel/SKYOH/ and here is a holiday Express close by http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/ex/1/en/hotel/SKYEX/welcome

[Diana Lyn]

Here is a comparison of the different onsite resorts at Cedar Point:

http://resorts.cedarpoint.com/public/compare.cfm


I think their Castaway Bay would be an awesome place to spend a long weekend, without even stepping foot into Cedar Point. :thumbsup2 I don't mean in July, but maybe some other time.

It's funny that you posted this because as soon as I was reading about a meet in Cleveland in February, this was the place I thought about going because seriously, what the heck is there to do in Cleveland in February!!! (Sorry Erin....I've been to Ohio in the winter!)

[buzybee]

[QUOTE=curtdennis]Karen and I are in for a NY meet [QUOTE]


Anytime you all want to come to NY for a meet, let us know! We'd be glad to help set it up. We LOVE company :cool1:

[crzy4dals]

It's funny that you posted this because as soon as I was reading about a meet in Cleveland in February, this was the place I thought about going because seriously, what the heck is there to do in Cleveland in February!!! (Sorry Erin....I've been to Ohio in the winter!)

NOT A PROBLEM... I am not from here....

[sanddune]

Here is a Hampton Inn http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=SKYMLHX

[sanddune]

It's funny that you posted this because as soon as I was reading about a meet in Cleveland in February, this was the place I thought about going because seriously, what the heck is there to do in Cleveland in February!!! (Sorry Erin....I've been to Ohio in the winter!)
Her is another neet hotel for another time.(Not July) http://www.greatwolflodge.com/Locations/Sandusky/

[cgcw]

Her is another neet hotel for another time.(Not July) http://www.greatwolflodge.com/Locations/Sandusky/

We have stayed at the Great Wolf Lodge in Wisconsin Dells and it's awesome. Everyone would have a blast here!!!

[Diana Lyn]

Her is another neet hotel for another time.(Not July) http://www.greatwolflodge.com/Locations/Sandusky/

Oooh yeah!! Can we go! Can we?? Can we?? PLEEEAAASSEE????? :lmao: Plan a winter meet here and I'm SO there!!! (Even if it means I have to spend an entire day with my inlaws. :rolleyes: )

[crzy4dals]

This one is supposed to be better

http://www.kalahariresort.com/waterpark/?locid=2&areaid=16

[cgcw]

This one is supposed to be better

http://www.kalahariresort.com/waterpark/?locid=2&areaid=16

I've heard good things about Kalahari as they also have a location in WI.

We are definately in for this one. :thumbsup2


I have a question -- totally off topic. When we get together, do you consider it a DIS meet? Mary asked me this question on Saturday and I know my answer. I won't post my thoughts just yet as I'm curious to hear what others have to say.

[crzy4dals]

Oooh yeah!! Can we go! Can we?? Can we?? PLEEEAAASSEE????? :lmao: Plan a winter meet here and I'm SO there!!! (Even if it means I have to spend an entire day with my inlaws. :rolleyes: )


shhh... they do not have to know....;)

[crzy4dals]

I've heard good things about Kalahari as they also have a location in WI.

We are definately in for this one. :thumbsup2


I have a question -- totally off topic. When we get together, do you consider it a DIS meet? Mary asked me this question on Saturday and I know my answer. I won't post my thoughts just yet as I'm curious to hear what others have to say.

I do not.... I consider it meeting up with friends. The DIS is the easy way to communicate all together but it seems much more since we have moved it from being just a local get together.

Just my 2 cents

[cgcw]

shhh... they do not have to know....;)

But I bet that Bruce might make the connection. ;)

We just might plan to do a couple of days at one of the water parks before Cedar Point. We are planning on taking the entire week as vacation and looking for something else to do. We've heard there isn't much in Ohio, Curt was telling us about the Ford Museum in Detroit but I bet my kids would absolutely flip with joy at the thought. :idea: Hmmm, I'm going to have to look into that idea.

Cameron is always asking to go to Wisconsin Dells -- because of the Great Wolf Lodge -- in fact, that's how I ended up taking the boys to WDW because it turned out to be a more economical trip for us. But, as of right now, we have no plans for WDW next year ( :sad2: ) so maybe, just maybe, we might consider a couple days hanging out at one of these resorts.

[sanddune]

I've heard good things about Kalahari as they also have a location in WI.

We are definately in for this one. :thumbsup2


I have a question -- totally off topic. When we get together, do you consider it a DIS meet? Mary asked me this question on Saturday and I know my answer. I won't post my thoughts just yet as I'm curious to hear what others have to say.
NOOOOO! We are all friends. Meets are for meeting new people. How could you really call it a meet any more?:confused3 We know each other. If I'm willing to share a cabin ,I know you!;):rotfl2: :rotfl2:

[Diana Lyn]

I do not.... I consider it meeting up with friends. The DIS is the easy way to communicate all together but it seems much more since we have moved it from being just a local get together.

Just my 2 cents

Me neither. To me a "DIS meet" is a bunch of different people from the different areas with different interests converge together to meet in a common place. We've all met and made friendships as families so to me it's definitely more than a "meet".

[crzy4dals]

Come see a cult classic home. WHo does not love "A Christmas Story"?

You'll shoot your eye out...

http://www.achristmasstoryhouse.com/

[Diana Lyn]

But I bet that Bruce might make the connection. ;)

We just might plan to do a couple of days at one of the water parks before Cedar Point. We are planning on taking the entire week as vacation and looking for something else to do. We've heard there isn't much in Ohio, Curt was telling us about the Ford Museum in Detroit but I bet my kids would absolutely flip with joy at the thought. :idea: Hmmm, I'm going to have to look into that idea.

Cameron is always asking to go to Wisconsin Dells -- because of the Great Wolf Lodge -- in fact, that's how I ended up taking the boys to WDW because it turned out to be a more economical trip for us. But, as of right now, we have no plans for WDW next year ( :sad2: ) so maybe, just maybe, we might consider a couple days hanging out at one of these resorts.

You can always road trip it to Hershey with us!

I seriously want to do one of those water parks this winter. We have one here owned by Six Flags but since everyone was just so dead set against coming to NY in the winter, I guess we'll have to make the trek! Bruce said he'd love to go, so we're ready! So who was in charge of planning the next meet?

[Diana Lyn]

Come see a cult classic home. WHo does not love "A Christmas Story"?

You'll shoot your eye out...

http://www.achristmasstoryhouse.com/

I LOVE that movie!! Last year it was on all sorts of wacky times and Bruce would wake up at 3am because I was laughing so hard in the bed next him.

Red Rider Leg Lamps!!! I can't believe they actually sell those!!

[#1Mouse]

This one is supposed to be better

http://www.kalahariresort.com/waterpark/?locid=2&areaid=16

Where do I sign up for this one? What a neat park.

This is a type of a resort (as are the Great Bear/Wolf Lodges) that everyone could just hang out and relax. The water areas are noisy so we at least won't get asked to be quiet. :rotfl:

[sanddune]

You can always road trip it to Hershey with us!

I seriously want to do one of those water parks this winter. We have one here owned by Six Flags but since everyone was just so dead set against coming to NY in the winter, I guess we'll have to make the trek! Bruce said he'd love to go, so we're ready! So who was in charge of planning the next meet?That would be me.... Hi Diana ! Where do you want to go..... I'll book that now!:rotfl2: :rotfl2:

[sanddune]

Where do I sign up for this one? What a neat park.

This is a type of a resort (as are the Great Bear/Wolf Lodges) that everyone could just hang out and relax. The water areas are noisy so we at least won't get asked to be quiet. :rotfl:I'm glad you said that.Cause it looks like the winner.:thumbsup2
How is Deanna today? I hope she's feeling better.:wizard:

[#1Mouse]

I have a question -- totally off topic. When we get together, do you consider it a DIS meet? Mary asked me this question on Saturday and I know my answer. I won't post my thoughts just yet as I'm curious to hear what others have to say.

We went to a DIS meet here in Michigan. Usually there's new people at the meets that you haven't met yet. Which is how I met Mary (iluvdisney). The Novi meet worked out that the only person I didn't know was Kim and her son. Well, I met Garry there but I kind of knew him from him being on one of the cruises that Mary was on and I also met his wife on the 11 night cruise in September.

I wouldn't call the Cedar Point trip a DIS Meet - more like friends (that met on the DIS) getting together.

[sanddune]

Got to go I'll check back in tomorrow. Night all.:cloud9:

[#1Mouse]

I'm glad you said that.Cause it looks like the winner.:thumbsup2
How is Deanna today? I hope she's feeling better.:wizard:

So when are we going to that park?

Deanna is feeling alot better. She had to go to the office and get more tape to keep her gauze pad on while at school. Her arm and the scrapes on the knee are starting to scab over. The big one on the side of her leg was still raw when she got home from school. I made her put shorts on and keep the band aid off (this band aid is 4x4 and just covers the scrape) so the air can get to it. I still put the band aid on while she sleeps so the blanket fuzz doesn't stick to it - ick!

[RRBB]

We'll have to remedy the situation by having another meet to catch up since we have had only one. This time Julie and Matt will hopefully be able to come. Let's try to set one up right after the holidays.::yes:: Sounds like a great idea to me. But this time we'll have to find someplace that doesn't have a car video game so Ian will join us. ;) He's still very into cars, in fact he snagged one from his grandmother's yesterday and it's hardly been out of his hands since. And right now he's sleeping with it yet again.

[Diana Lyn]

Where do I sign up for this one? What a neat park.

This is a type of a resort (as are the Great Bear/Wolf Lodges) that everyone could just hang out and relax. The water areas are noisy so we at least won't get asked to be quiet. :rotfl:

I was thinking the same thing---we can't get kicked out of a noisy water park!

Chris--our personal travel planner, you rock!! :thumbsup2

There's a room that sleeps 12! Who's staying with me? :lmao:

[RRBB]

Sorry my absence folks but my hard drive completely blew up and I had to get it redone. What a total pain. Luckily I had just done a download of everyone's email address and what documents I had on Word to see if my DVD was working otherwise I would have lost everything.Oy! What a mess. Glad you got your computer back up and running. Sometimes I really hate this machine, but what would we do without them these days?!

[curtdennis]

That would be me.... Hi Diana ! Where do you want to go..... I'll book that now!:rotfl2: :rotfl2:

OK here is a TZ moment. Just tonight Karen was telling me about the conversations about doing a get together at an indoor water park. She remembered seeing Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky and knew about the new place at Cedar Point. We has NO IDEA about that third place (but it sounds really cool). And in keeping the NY folks in mind we were looking for someplace half way between Chicago and New York.

Here is a another place in (of all places) Erie, PA. http://www.splashlagoon.com/new72688/map/

From Albany (sorry can't spell schenechty) 5hr 43 min
From Chicago 6hr 38 min
From Detroit 3 hr 55 min
From Cleveland 1 hr 25 min (Erin hosts :rotfl2:)

What put the twinkle in my eye about this place is the indoor laser tag area (KNOCK KNOCK Cameron, Nick, Alex & Ryan, John, Gary, Mike, Tom, Bruce, Rich & Jeff - wanna come and play?)

Another 2cents for the pot, BUT I think this is closer to center for everyone concerned. Whatta think bout these apples?