Karlyn’s Wish Is Coming True ***1st hair tutorial***

[bigdismom]

Yeah we're keeping an eye on Ike too. I hope that it doesn't mess up the trip. Tell Lindsey i feel her pain/worry, tell her to watch it but not get to obsessed, i catch myself getting that way and I worry myself sick. Here's to hoping for great weather.

becca

I have already become a crazed hurricane watcher! I keep pulling up the internet to see where the projected path will be for each one and the I look at the 10 day projected forecast to see if anything has changed there. I just dont want to have a super soggy vacation. Plus Karlyn does not do well in the windy rainy weather.:scared1:

[mom2lilnick]

Love the pics! I can't believe that it is so close! I also can't wait to have some more Trip Reports to read!! :D

[bigdisgrandma]

You really need to see the pics that Bigdismom posted on the Wish Trippers Thread.

Here is the link
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1606643&page=117

A brand new way to pack a suitcase!

Denise

[jham]

I just can't worry about a hurricane, I am still worring about important stuff like what I am going to wear!:rotfl:




I just love your attitude Denise! :lmao: I hope you have the most amazing trip! I have loved being the fortunate one that got to meet you, Lindsey and the kids FOR REAL! :cool1: You have a wonderful family. Tell the kids hi for me and to have a great trip. Tell Gabby good luck with her handstand! I can't wait to hear all about it! And I think it is safe to "unban" you from the disboutiquers thread! :dance3: :grouphug:

[bigdisgrandma]

I just love your attitude Denise! :lmao: I hope you have the most amazing trip! I have loved being the fortunate one that got to meet you, Lindsey and the kids FOR REAL! :cool1: You have a wonderful family. Tell the kids hi for me and to have a great trip. Tell Gabby good luck with her handstand! I can't wait to hear all about it! And I think it is safe to "unban" you from the disboutiquers thread! :dance3: :grouphug:

Hooray!
I am so excited. I can hardly wait to get to the disboutiquers thread!
Thank you so much for all you and everyone have done for us that will make this the most unforgettable wonderful trip ever!:grouphug: I wish that we could have met everyone in person. It was so fun to have you and the kids come by. Lindsey's kids still talk about it! Perhaps you guys can come by when we get back from the trip and we'll have a little party! It will almost be time for you to go then!

I am going to post a picture of my appliqued shirts and the pettiskirts in the morning. I am quite pleased with how they both turned out. You know I don't do much with cameras so I will need help from Mandy and she isn't home yet tonight and I am going to bed. Mike says we have to find a real sewing space for me but all the spare rooms aren't really spares at our house right now. I asked to use his office but was vetoed instantly. He would rather have me in the kitchen sewing than in his office and I don't think I can take the pressure of having to keep it cleaned up all the time. :eek:

Again thanks to you for everything!

:love:
Denise

[bigdisgrandma]

Okay, yes you too can make a pettislip...you just have to be a little crazy and really, really like ruffles but it can be done. This is my granddaughter Raegan who happened to stop by this morning so she got to model. She is 3 and a little smaller than Karlyn and Gabby but that's ok. She is not a big smiler for anyone. We even tried bribery and it didn't work but she does want her own "Rella skirt" from grandma!
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0416.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0412.jpg

And here she is looking for the rest of Mickey Mouse on the shirt I did.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0419.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0418.jpg

Now, I am still trying to figure out what to pack for me!

Denise

[LuvGoing2Disney7]

Okay, yes you too can make a pettislip...you just have to be a little crazy and really, really like ruffles but it can be done. This is my granddaughter Raegan who happened to stop by this morning so she got to model. She is 3 and a little smaller than Karlyn and Gabby but that's ok. She is not a big smiler for anyone. We even tried bribery and it didn't work but she does want her own "Rella skirt" from grandma!

And here she is looking for the rest of Mickey Mouse on the shirt I did.
Denise

The pettislip turned out GREAT! Raegan is a cutie. The mickey app is cute too. What a good idea.

[AURORA73]

So little to do and so much time--strike that reverse it-quote from a few days ago.

Darn you, now I have to go watch that movie. Sorry it's been so long since I have posted on your Pre-Trip. I have been dealing with Veruca. I am excited for your trip. I will not be enjoying Wednesday but will be thinking of you and wishing I was with you instead of where I will be.

Have fun packing. Can't wait to hear all about the trip. :wizard:

[bigdisgrandma]

So little to do and so much time--strike that reverse it-quote from a few days ago.

Darn you, now I have to go watch that movie. Sorry it's been so long since I have posted on your Pre-Trip. I have been dealing with Veruca. I am excited for your trip. I will not be enjoying Wednesday but will be thinking of you and wishing I was with you instead of where I will be.

Have fun packing. Can't wait to hear all about the trip. :wizard:

Sorry, you know how I love a good movie quote! Wish you were going with us instead of the "Wedding of the Century" I want an OompaLoompa Now!!

Keep smiling, This to shall pass!

Denise

[Robin+5]

OMG, you are so close to your trip :cool1: Have a wonderful time and let the magic happen pixiedust: As long as you are all together, sharing memories, you will have the time of your life :thumbsup2 Hopefully, by the time you get back I will have my trip report finished. :confused3 I can't wait to hear all about yours .
Robin

[GoofyDoo]

BON VOYAGE!!!! Have a wonderful, wonderful trip!!! You'll be in my prayers...be safe. Have fun!!!! :banana: :banana: :banana:

[Princesskeyblade]

You are so close! Have a great time and we will be here when you get back to hear all about it !

[jham]

HAVE A WONDERFUL TRIP!!!:mickeyjum :tigger: :goofy: :tigger: :figment: :sulley: :dumbo: :donald: :stitch: :simba: :ccat: :maleficen :Pinkbounc :bounce:
and have one of these for me! :mickeybar

[mom2lilnick]

Have a great time!!

[AURORA73]

Have a wonderful trip!:cheer2: Hope to hear the sounds of Splash Mountain in the next few days. I will be starting my pre-trip report hopefully when you get back. Yes, it's finally happening. :yay:

[tofubeast]

Wishing Karlyn a most magical trip! Safe travels. I cannot wait to read all about it when you all get back!

[bigdisgrandma]

Thanks to everyone for your well wishes. It is like we are leaving some of our best friends behind...:sad1: but we will tell all when we return!:thumbsup2 I plan to keep a journal so that it won't take too long to write the trip report when we get home! At least, that's my plan!

As I type this, we have 12 hours until we leave for the airport. We have to go a little early because they are tearing up the road in front of the airport and we have to park one car in the long term parking lot! That and the fact that there are 10 of us to get checked in, luggage taken care of and all, we think we will need the extra time.

We are also a little concerned about the heavy duty wires in Karlyn's chest that have been there since her open heart surgery. Not sure if they will set off the alarms at the TSA section. There isn't much but skin covering them up, she is so skinny! Lindsey was thinking about carrying her latest chest x-ray that shows the wires quite clearly but we decided that probably wouldn't be necessary. I think if they need us to we can show them the major scar that runs down the middle of her chest and that should explain everything.:thumbsup2

To those of you joining us in the world this week, hope we might run into each other. :yay: For those of you going through withdrawl from the world, I know how you feel!:sad2: And for those lucky friends who are still anticipating, planning and packing, Don't wait too long or you will be like me, still trying to get my act together! However, Tim and Mike did clean the house for me while I was at work today!:banana: :banana: :banana: They are the best son and husband anyone could ask for! I really am almost done!

Well, I guess that's all, We'll write when we get home.

Our love and thanks to you all for helping this to be a most wonderful adventure!
:love:
Denise

[twinmum]

Oh wow and wow again! You're leaving in the morning! I do hope you have a chance to log in one last time and see this message. I haven't posted often, but I've been reading your pre-trip and I think your family is so marvellous and loving, so very supportive of Karlyn and her siblings and parents. You guys so deserve to have this wonderful time together. As I first read somewhere here...just go where the magic takes you and make fantastic memories together!!! Then come back home and share them with us!

And BTW, terrific job on the sewing...a world I have not re-entered since I botched my one and only attempt - a t-shirt made in my Grade 8 (mandatoyy) home economics class. Gosh, that was, oh...33 years ago! DO they still even teach Home Ec anymore?!? And isn't it telling that I was more successful making a wooden Tic Tac Toe board in (also mandatory) Shop class?

All the arrivals from the Big Give look so amazing. And I learned a few days ago that we are going to be part of the Big Give too! Those DISBoutiquers are really spreading the pixie dust over!

Have a wonderful time!

Blessings,
Alison

[LuvGoing2Disney7]

Well, I guess that's all, We'll write when we get home.

Our love and thanks to you all for helping this to be a most wonderful adventure!
:love:
Denise

I can't wait to hear and see all about your trip. And to see you all in all those outfits you made :)

I'll be thinking of you tomorrow morning. You'll be going to the airport about the time I'm getting my boys up for school

[inkedupmomma]

yaya your on your way!1 hope we bump into eachother!!

[HeatherN]

Oh my goodness!!! You are probably on your way already, so wont see this till you return.I just wanted you to know we will be thinking of you all week.I know you will all have a wonderful time!! I can't wait to read all about it when you return.:goodvibes

Probably too late but wanted to add that Hannah has never set off metal detectors with her wired sternum either! You should be ok.

[LuvGoing2Disney7]

Hope you guys are having a GREAT time!! I've been thinking of you today. Can't wait for you to get back and share your adventures

[bex271]

can't wait to hear how your adventure was. I hope y'all had a magically wonderful time.

becca

[AURORA73]

WELCOME HOME! I can't wait to hear all about the trip. I've got my popcorn popcorn:: ready and my hot chocolate? (well it is starting to get cooler here) and my computer :surfweb: ready and waiting for the report. I'll probably hear about it before you are able to post though.:)

[LuvGoing2Disney7]

[COLOR="Red"] I've got my popcorn popcorn:: ready and my hot chocolate? (well it is starting to get cooler here) and my computer :surfweb: ready and waiting for the report. I'll probably hear about it before you are able to post though.:)

HEY!!!! I have popcorn and hot chocolate too. I want to hear and see :) popcorn::

[jham]

Welcome Home! :grouphug:

[zeppy68]

welcome home

[bigdisgrandma]

We are back!:sad1: The time went by so quickly and now it's over. I just have one thing to say:

IT WAS AWESOME!

We had the most incredible experience. Yes, there was some rain, in fact, on the first day when we got there, there was lots and lots of rain. If it rained like that in Utah, we would have flash floods like you can't believe. We just learned that we all have a little bit of duck in us and we can live with rain.

Most of the words for the report are written, I just have to coordinate them with the pictures. So the report will be coming soon! I do have one really exciting thing that happened that I just have to share with you all, kind of like a teaser!:goodvibes

When we went to check in at Port Orleans Riverside, after going to GKTW with Karlyn and her family, we gave the CM our reservation information and asked if it would be possible to have our two rooms connecting and if not, at least adjoining. She looked on the computer and then asked if she could take the papers for a moment and she would be right back. I told Mandy that it is never a good sign when they look at the computer and then ask if they can go to the back room for a moment! Boy, was I ever wrong this time.
When CM Camila came back out, she asked if it would be alright if they offered us an upgrade to a 2 bedroom villa at Old Key West. :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: Now if I was a good actor, I would have said "Oh I guess if we have to." However, I am not a good actor and it was all I could do to keep myself from jumping up and down and shouting "We got an Upgrade!" I didn't do this though because I didn't want to be attacked by the people standing in line behind me. So very calmly, I told Mandy to go tell her Dad that we didn't have a room at POR (Just so I could see him get a little angry) and then tell him we were going to OKW. We had stayed there about 12 years ago with his parents and so we knew how cool this would be! Dear Camila said "You can just consider this a little Magic Moment." I wanted to jump over the counter and give that girl a giant hug...but remember, I was trying to stay in control.:rotfl:

Anyway, more to come soon, I promise. And thanks to you all for everything you did, kind thoughts and words, gorgeous clothes, helpful information or just hanging in there with us.

Denise

[Robin+5]

It is nice to hear from you again. What a great first day!!! We stayed a OKW with friends about 10 years ago and had sooo much fun. I can't wait to hear more.
Robin

[LuvGoing2Disney7]

We are back!:sad1: The time went by so quickly and now it's over. I just have one thing to say:

IT WAS AWESOME!


Denise

YAY!!! So good to hear from you. Can't wait to hear about it all. Definitely a GREAT way to start off your special trip:)

[mom2lilnick]

Welcome back! What a great start! Can't wait to hear all about it!

[AURORA73]

An upgrade! And to OKW! How exciting! How come this is the first I am hearing about this. I can't believe after all my texts to Mandy this never came up.:sad2: Just kidding. It was a fun surprise and I guess it's fair to all the rest of the DISboards group just waiting to hear about the trip. Sorry, everyone. I will wait along with the rest of you for the TR.

[teresajoy]

We are back!:sad1: The time went by so quickly and now it's over. I just have one thing to say:

IT WAS AWESOME!

We had the most incredible experience. Yes, there was some rain, in fact, on the first day when we got there, there was lots and lots of rain. If it rained like that in Utah, we would have flash floods like you can't believe. We just learned that we all have a little bit of duck in us and we can live with rain.

Most of the words for the report are written, I just have to coordinate them with the pictures. So the report will be coming soon! I do have one really exciting thing that happened that I just have to share with you all, kind of like a teaser!:goodvibes

When we went to check in at Port Orleans Riverside, after going to GKTW with Karlyn and her family, we gave the CM our reservation information and asked if it would be possible to have our two rooms connecting and if not, at least adjoining. She looked on the computer and then asked if she could take the papers for a moment and she would be right back. I told Mandy that it is never a good sign when they look at the computer and then ask if they can go to the back room for a moment! Boy, was I ever wrong this time.
When CM Carmela came back out, she asked if it would be alright if they offered us an upgrade to a 2 bedroom villa at Old Key West. :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: Now if I was a good actor, I would have said "Oh I guess if we have to." However, I am not a good actor and it was all I could do to keep myself from jumping up and down and shouting "We got an Upgrade!" I didn't do this though because I didn't want to be attacked by the people standing in line behind me. So very calmly, I told Mandy to go tell her Dad that we didn't have a room at POR (Just so I could see him get a little angry) and then tell him we were going to OKW. We had stayed there about 12 years ago with his parents and so we knew how cool this would be! Dear Carmela said "You can just consider this a little Magic Moment." I wanted to jump over the counter and give that girl a giant hug...but remember, I was trying to stay in control.:rotfl:

Anyway, more to come soon, I promise. And thanks to you all for everything you did, kind thoughts and words, gorgeous clothes, helpful information or just hanging in there with us.

Denise
:welcome: home!!!!!!! Oh how exciting about the upgrade!!!!! :banana: :banana: :banana: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

[maroo]

Cool!! Got an upgrade! Awesome. :) that is great news.

I can't wait to hear about the rest of your trip! :) mary

[bex271]

that was an awesome upgrade. I can't wait to hear more about the trip and see the pictures.

becca

[AmberGreenawalt]

WELCOME HOME!!!!!!!!!!! I'm thrilled you had a great time!! I can't wait to read all about your adventures!!!!

Big Hugs,
Amber

[bigdisgrandma]

I know I promised the start of the trip report but we have about 1200 pictures that we are trying to sort through to get the best ones for the TR. This weekend I promise we will get it started!

Thanks to you all for the welcome home. I am amazed at how much I missed reading about what was happening with everyone.

Denise

[bigdisgrandma]

It is nice to hear from you again. What a great first day!!! We stayed a OKW with friends about 10 years ago and had sooo much fun. I can't wait to hear more.
Robin

Robin, I agree that it is great to back among friends! I hope things are well with your cute daughter away at college. I still remember how hard it was for me when I went away to college and that was more years than I want to think about.:laughing:

YAY!!! So good to hear from you. Can't wait to hear about it all. Definitely a GREAT way to start off your special trip:)

Thanks so much. Once again sorry about that BYU/Washington game!

Welcome back! What a great start! Can't wait to hear all about it!

I promise, it will be soon!;)

An upgrade! And to OKW! How exciting! How come this is the first I am hearing about this. I can't believe after all my texts to Mandy this never came up.:sad2: Just kidding. It was a fun surprise and I guess it's fair to all the rest of the DISboards group just waiting to hear about the trip. Sorry, everyone. I will wait along with the rest of you for the TR.

You know I don't know how to text so I have no clue what you and Mandy were chatting about the whole week. I told her to tell you!

:welcome: home!!!!!!! Oh how exciting about the upgrade!!!!! :banana: :banana: :banana: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

It was pretty unbelievable alright!

Cool!! Got an upgrade! Awesome. :) that is great news.

I can't wait to hear about the rest of your trip! :) mary

More magic like you got with your CRT ressie!

that was an awesome upgrade. I can't wait to hear more about the trip and see the pictures.

becca

The pictures we have are really so fun. You guys will just absolutely love GKTW. It is truly unbelievable until you see it! Words do not do it justice.

WELCOME HOME!!!!!!!!!!! I'm thrilled you had a great time!! I can't wait to read all about your adventures!!!!

Big Hugs,
Amber

You time will be here before you know it and we will all be waiting to see your fantastic pictures. Remember we've seen some of your work already and it is incredible!

Heather, I wanted to tell you how much I loved the finish of your TR. I just hate it when you have to sit in an airport forever waiting to go home. Nothing makes me more tired than an airport chair!:sad2:

I know I have forgotten some of you but I just lost my major multiquote...Thanks to you all for following us.

:love:
Denise

[amytheobald]

Hope your trip was as magical as ours, can't wait to hear about it!

[LuvGoing2Disney7]

I know I promised the start of the trip report but we have about 1200 pictures that we are trying to sort through to get the best ones for the TR. This weekend I promise we will get it started!Denise
Well of course we want to see them all :)



Thanks so much. Once again sorry about that BYU/Washington game!
:love:
Denise

It's all good :) We got a call from MAW and if things work out it will more than make up for it. The kids are even wearing their BYU stuff again so I guess they've gotten over it too LOL

[Khalana]

Looking forward to reading all about your trip when you come back! :) :thumbsup2

[tofubeast]

:cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

yay you are back!!! Can't wait to read the start of the report THIS weekend!! :thumbsup2

[AURORA73]

You know I don't know how to text so I have no clue what you and Mandy were chatting about the whole week. I told her to tell you!


It's alright. I got a brief overview at lunch today. I can't wait to see the photos and read the report. Hopefully this weekend?!? :wizard: I will go work on my pre-trip report while I wait. I will have that posted this weekend too or at least I will try.

[GoofyDoo]

Denise!!! Welcome home! I have been so busy this week that I've hardly been on the computer at all. And now as I'm taking my Friday night breather, I am reading that you got home safely and had a wonderful trip! YAY!! I thought about y'all tons and said prayers for your fun and safety many times. I cannot wait to hear all about it!!! Thanks for the teaser!

Oh...and would you happen to know anything about a "Fairy Grandma"? :hug:

[bigdisgrandma]

Denise!!! Welcome home! I have been so busy this week that I've hardly been on the computer at all. And now as I'm taking my Friday night breather, I am reading that you got home safely and had a wonderful trip! YAY!! I thought about y'all tons and said prayers for your fun and safety many times. I cannot wait to hear all about it!!! Thanks for the teaser!

Oh...and would you happen to know anything about a "Fairy Grandma"? :hug:

All I know about a fairy Grandma is that she sent 3 darling postcards to our kids that we got when we came home!

Lindsey is going to run the picture CD's over in the morning when she comes for three kids soccer games. We also have tickets to the BYU/Wyoming football game tomorrow afternoon so it will be tomorrow night or Sunday after church before I get things organized and posted; but I am ready. It almost feels like a letdown now that the trip is over. My husband said that he hardly knows what to do with himself because we were so focused for so long on this trip. However, he is going to be back in Orlando October 5-10 but won't have time for Disney so I won't go with him. He did say that we could just decide to go sometime and then go:cool1: :cool1: :cool1: He is addicted too!

:hug:
Denise

[Robin+5]

I need to get my butt in gear and finish my report. I has been crazy here. All the kids got postcards from "Fairy Grandma" :hug: . I thought it was you :). I wonder who it was :confused: I can't wait to hear about your trip
Robin

[twinmum]

Welcome Back!!! Can't wait to hear more about your trip!

Our boys also received postcards from "Your Fairy Grandma" and I thought they were from you, too. I'm a little embarrased I hadn't had a chance to come and thank properly here. But if they were not sent by you, to whom do we attribute this sprinkling of pixie dust...??? May of our addresses have been shared with the DISBoutiquers...could it be one of them?

I hope you have time to start your trip report this weekend. I am heavily into the purging and packing up as the demolition stage of our renovation begins on Oct 1. I could use a pick me up!

It's really nice to have you back on the boards!

Alison

[Mom2aGoofyBoy]

I don't post much but read your pre-trip when we were planning our trip for the same time, and I saw you there! :cool1: :cool1: It didn't register at first where I recognized that bright orange and blue fabric from for a bit, and you were gone by the time it did, but I was crossing the bridge to leave animal kingdom as your gang was coming across the other direction on Saturday the 13th! You did a great job with the outfits, everyone looked great! Hope you had a good time there that day!

Julia

[Tnkrbelle565]

Welcome home!!!

[bigdisgrandma]

I need to get my butt in gear and finish my report. I has been crazy here. All the kids got postcards from "Fairy Grandma" :hug: . I thought it was you :). I wonder who it was :confused: I can't wait to hear about your trip
Robin
I am a little confused as well but what a wonderful sprinkling of pixie dust.
I am waiting for the end of your trip report too but know how that busy thing can get in the way.
Denise
Welcome Back!!! Can't wait to hear more about your trip!

Our boys also received postcards from "Your Fairy Grandma" and I thought they were from you, too. I'm a little embarrased I hadn't had a chance to come and thank properly here. But if they were not sent by you, to whom do we attribute this sprinkling of pixie dust...??? May of our addresses have been shared with the DISBoutiquers...could it be one of them?

I hope you have time to start your trip report this weekend. I am heavily into the purging and packing up as the demolition stage of our renovation begins on Oct 1. I could use a pick me up!

It's really nice to have you back on the boards!

Alison

First installment today! Wow, a huge undertaking at your house!

I don't post much but read your pre-trip when we were planning our trip for the same time, and I saw you there! :cool1: :cool1: It didn't register at first where I recognized that bright orange and blue fabric from for a bit, and you were gone by the time it did, but I was crossing the bridge to leave animal kingdom as your gang was coming across the other direction on Saturday the 13th! You did a great job with the outfits, everyone looked great! Hope you had a good time there that day!

Julia

We were a little hard to miss weren't we? We had a marvelous time that day. I am sorry we didn't get a chance to talk.:sad2: That would have been so much fun! Hope you day was as wonderful as ours was!

Welcome home!!!

Thanks so much!

Well, here comes installment #1!

Denise

[AmberGreenawalt]

Welcome Back!!! Can't wait to hear more about your trip!

Our boys also received postcards from "Your Fairy Grandma" and I thought they were from you, too. I'm a little embarrased I hadn't had a chance to come and thank properly here. But if they were not sent by you, to whom do we attribute this sprinkling of pixie dust...??? May of our addresses have been shared with the DISBoutiquers...could it be one of them?

I hope you have time to start your trip report this weekend. I am heavily into the purging and packing up as the demolition stage of our renovation begins on Oct 1. I could use a pick me up!

It's really nice to have you back on the boards!

Alison


The post cards are from Linda. She got your addresses from me. I made her a chart that has all the wish trip kids names, their siblings and their favorite characters. I hope no one is upset with me for sharing the addresses with her. I just figured she wanted to do something nice. We also got three post cards from her and the kids loved them!!!

[bigdisgrandma]

Well, here we go…rocketing off to another fun filled adventure. (For those of you who are old, you may remember that phrase from the old Rocky and Bullwinkle show!) We begin by leaving our houses at around 7:00 am after a long night of no sleep because of excitement and anticipation and head toward the airport. Of course, they are resurfacing the road in front of the airport so that puts a little crimp into the plans. Grandpa parked one car in the short-term parking and Aunt Anne came and picked it up later in the afternoon. Grandpa and Grandma Ziemski dropped Lindsey and Bryan and the kids off and we headed toward check-in with Delta.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0377.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0378.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0380.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0382.jpg
Because Grandpa Kelly is a platinum medallion flyer, they let us all check in together in the medallion line. All the agents were so kind and helped us get through really quickly. They also gave us all coupons for free headphones on the plane. This was a case of it’s the thought that counts because we already had plenty of headphones for everyone from all of Grandpa’s trips but we were thankful for the kindness anyway. It was the first of so many magical moments for us on this trip.

We headed for the gate and got lots of curious looks at the 10 people all wearing matching bright red Wish shirts. Thanks, Piper.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0383.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0385.jpg

We got to the gate and the kids played and colored and the big people just waited.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0390.jpg
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DH000001.jpg
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Soon, it was time for us all to get on the plane. Again, because of Grandpa, they let us board in Zone 2.

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We found our seats and guess what, we waited some more. Grandpa kept asking the girls “Are we there yet?” They would both giggle and say “Not yet.”
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When the plane finally taxied to the runway, again we heard Grandpa say “Are we there yet?” “Not yet!” And then as the plane lifted off, in unison Gabby and Karlyn both looked out the window and in wondrous surprise said “WOW!!!” It was so cute that everyone around us just laughed. A typical flight, so-so movie, so-so snacks and some bumpy weather but with the coloring books, pencil rollups and lots of treats from home, things went great and 4 ½ short hours later---We were there!

After the first of what would become at least a thousand potty stops on this trip, we were on the magical monorail provided by the Orlando Airport.
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This was Karlyn's favorite type of transportation for the whole trip!

We got off and walked a little way passed the security gates and there was Ray, our fabulous GKTW greeter with a Karlyn Sign! Sorry we didn’t get a picture of Ray but he was just terrific!

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Ray helped us find our luggage, our rental cars and helped us load all the luggage into the cars. They had even made arrangements for booster seats for the girls. Yeah! Then he gave us the directions to GKTW, made sure we knew where we were going and had the phone number if we got lost and we were on our way. We also had Grandpa’s GPS to help with the don’t get lost part!

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More of day one later today! Sorry some of the pictures are a little blurry, some of us can't walk and chew gum at the same time let alone take pictures!

Denise

[bex271]

YEAH!!! can't wait to read more and great pictures.

becca

[AmberGreenawalt]

YAY! Can't wait to read more!

[jham]

Great start! I took a break from "cleaning" (throwing out most of the toys) my boys' room and was so happy to see the start of your TR! I got teary eyed already :confused3 Loved the picture of the kids with Karlyn's special doggy (haha, I got to hold it) :rotfl: How early did Lindsey get up to do the girls' hair? They look gorgeous! I am so impressed. She needs to teach me how to do that with my girls hair! Can't wait to read more!

[oklamomof4boys]

Great start! I love all the pictures and can't wait to read more!

Carol

[twinmum]

Terrific start to your trip report! Hooray! Just what I like to see when I take a break from cleaning out and packing up the house pre-renovation. I'll check back later and hope to hear more about Day 1.

But hey...I'm not feeling old, but I certainly remember watching Rocky & Bullwinkle when I was a kid! We watched on our teeny little black & white TV! And don't forget, it was on about the same time as Dudley Do-Right of the RCMP, because the Royal Canadian Mounted Police always get their man!

Oh dear. I have seriously dated myself. I'm having a moment. I remember one day when the boys were in the NICU and there was a new baby in our room (the NICU was set up as several rooms of 6 beds each rather than 1 massive room, very nice). Having given birth to my first children (twins, remember?) at age 37 (yup, do the math, they're turning 10 so I just turned 47!), I had seen many, many mothers younger than I was. I smiled to see that finally, there was a mother who seemed about my age...almost, as I overheard her say something like "I never thought I'd be going through this at 35." But then she was joined by another, much younger person. Yes, you've figured it out. I had been seeing Grandma (age 35), and her daughter had just given birth at age 17. How I felt for them. I knew how we were struggling with our emotions at age 37, with 9 years of marriage learning how to cope together and the financial security of working 15 years post-university. You could see they were shell-shocked, and I never did see a father in the picture. I just wanted to hug them both.

Right then. Another digression. Again!

I'll be reading!!!

Alison

[mom2lilnick]

LOVE IT!! Oh the girls' hair is amazing! Who did that? I have a girl and she would NEVER sit still long enough for that.

Keep it coming, can't wait to read more!!!

[AURORA73]

I love the start of your trip report. This is so much fun. I love reading a report where I know the people so well. I look forward to more. :)

[bigdismom]

Great start! I took a break from "cleaning" (throwing out most of the toys) my boys' room and was so happy to see the start of your TR! I got teary eyed already :confused3 Loved the picture of the kids with Karlyn's special doggy (haha, I got to hold it) :rotfl: How early did Lindsey get up to do the girls' hair? They look gorgeous! I am so impressed. She needs to teach me how to do that with my girls hair! Can't wait to read more!

We were up at about 530 but not to do hair. We got up early to make sure we had all of the last things packed. The thing that I love about the hair-do's on the girls is that you can do it the night before and it stays very nicely for days if you want. Gabbys bun does have to be smoothed out in the mornings but it makes life really easy. Bryan loves it because he gets the girls up and off to school in the morning and if I have done the girls hair the night before he does not have to do what we have now started to call the ''Hippy Pony" (a very low pony tail) that is the extent of his hair talent.

[bigdismom]

LOVE IT!! Oh the girls' hair is amazing! Who did that? I have a girl and she would NEVER sit still long enough for that.

Keep it coming, can't wait to read more!!!

I was lucky and trained my girls when they were very young and they will sit still to let me do just about anything. We have been known to make up hair styles as we go. The more elastics the better!

[Mic]

WOW! You all are off to a great start! The kids are soooo cute...love the hair! I have three daughters(the youngest one's name is Carlyn!), and they do not have tender heads, either! The two oldest ones(now in College...God, I'm old) were members of a dance team that competed often from the time they were toddlers, so they don't remember ever having hair in their faces! At 20 and 18, they can not stand to have their hair in their face...and the oldest one still comes home for me to do her hair for sorority/social events.

Can't wait for the rest!

[kimmylaj]

great start can't wait for more:thumbsup2

[jham]

popcorn::

[bigdisgrandma]

Parts 2 and 3 of day one in just a few minutes. Grab your caffeine diet pepsi, your popcorn and get ready. It is coming!

Denise

[maroo]

Parts 2 and 3 of day one in just a few minutes. Grab your caffeine diet pepsi, your popcorn and get ready. It is coming!

Denise

Ok...Popcorn...Diet Dr. Pepper...TV on (till the report comes out...)...

Did I forget anything? Can't wait! :)

[teresajoy]

Yeah! You started! Now, we need more!

[AURORA73]

Logged in and waiting! :surfweb:

[twinmum]

Foiled by those pesky time zones ones again! Well, hopefully your next instalment will be here when I get back tomorrow morning!

Looking forward to it,
Alison

[bigdisgrandma]

We found GKTW with no problems, parked the cars, walked into the House of Hearts and the sky opened up and began to pour rain. We, of course, were perfectly prepared with ponchos and multiple umbrellas, all neatly packed in the cars! Lot of good that was going to do!

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Inside, we were greeted by the wonderful staff who immediately gave Karlyn a Mickey Mouse and Gabby and Brody each got a Shamu!

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The paper signing, basic information and we headed off to the Villa.

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By this time, the rain was still coming down and we had to sort the luggage out when we got to the villa because part was going to stay at GKTW and part need to go with the rest of us. We were allowed 31 total pieces of luggage including checked and carry on. No we didn’t use it all but we did come close!

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When we got inside the villa, it was really nice. There was plenty of space for the 5 of them and of course the girls really loved the bathtub in their bedroom. You do have to plan ahead to use that bathtub though because it takes quite a while to fill it up.

On the table was the beginning of a daily routine of surprises. We won’t tell everything but we will share the basics from that first day. There was a big bag on the table in the kitchen filled with toys, treats, playdoh, trading cards, a handmade welcome card, hand painted drawstring backpacks for each of the kids, tons of really fun treats.

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The fridge also had some treats in it as well.

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Karlyn just loved her bed! And the rocking chairs on the front porch were a really big hit with kids and adults.

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Soon it was time for Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Tim, Aunt Mandy and Uncle Jason to head off to find our home away from home.

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No, I am not angry, just tired.

Oops, forgot this picture of the kids heading to bed!
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[maroo]

woo hoo!!! you guys can have fun no matter what - rain or shine! :) (even tired!) :) I am jealous that we won't have a villa! I can't wait to hear more... :) but i have to go to bed tonight... so more tomorrow. :banana: :banana: :banana:

[bigdisgrandma]

We said good-bye but the kids wanted to explore so here are some pictures of the exploring during a brief break in the rain. Mom went to the orientation and Dad led the explorers. They also stopped by for a little dinner. This was just about the only dinner that they ate at GKTW.

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The salads and salad dressing got rave reviews but the rest was okay but not great.
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Meanwhile, the rest of us drove toward WDW and Port Orleans Riverside. The rain seemed to be following us down the road and it was a really heavy rainstorm. I didn’t think it could ever rain that hard in Utah but this last Saturday coming home from the BYU football game we had a storm that could have been a close second!

We got to POR and ran through the rain to check into our rooms. Hopefully, you have read about our first Disney Magical Moment earlier in this thread (on page 19)but let me summarize, the cute CM Camila offered us an upgrade to Old Key West to a 2 bedroom 2 bath villa and we certainly were not going to turn that down! So back through the rain to the car and down the road we went. We checked in at OKW and decided that we had to have food before we went to our new home.

Now it is important to mention here that my husband and I have been to Orlando quite a few times in the past and for a quick fun meal, we like to go to Hooters. I know that some people don’t care for the whole image but I have been lots of places and seen many girls wearing lots less clothes than the girls at Hooters and they do have great food and great service. So we went off to dinner. We had fun, good food and even got to see a little bit of the Cubs game. One funny thing was when a couple of guys noticed our matching shirts and asked us if we were part of the softball tournament! Now look at the picture Tim took of us. Do I really look like I could play softball?

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We made a quick stop at the grocery store for some bottled water and a couple of boxes of cereal and some milk and some caffeine free diet pepsi and it was really time to head for bed. For some reason, we only took a picture of the living room and the kitchen.

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The whole place was really great. The master suite had a king-sized bed, a separate whirlpool bathtub and then a bathroom with a huge shower. The other bedroom/bath had a full bath and 2 queen sized beds. The guys got that room and lucky Mandy got the Sofa bed. Best of all, there was a washer and a dryer. I absolutely hate to bring home dirty clothes so this was a dream come true; I could do laundry. :laundy: I know, my husband thinks I am nuts but I truly believe that clean clothes are easier to pack and I love not having to do laundry when I get home.

Anyway, Seaworld was the next morning and we had been up for a very long time so it was time for us all to head to bed.

Have you seen enough red to last you a lifetime?

Denise

[bigdismom]

Have you seen enough red to last you a lifetime?

Denise[/QUOTE]


No!!! there is not such thing as to much red! At our house we love the University of Utah! GO UTES!!!!!!! ( just because you are blue team fans)

[bigdisgrandma]

I just have to tell you that downloading, editing and posting those pictures is a lot of work. It has taken me all night to get these two parts of this TR done and it was already written. I finally enlisted Lindsey to do the picture editing and things went a little faster. Thanks for hanging in with me. I am going to bed and because Mike is out of town I will only doze most of the night. ARGH!!

Denise

[AURORA73]

Thanks for working so hard. It was worth it to me. Seeing the photos of GKTW made me cry. I have always wanted to see that wonderful place and to see your family enjoying it was so special. :love:

[bex271]

OMG, i can't wait to read more, i'm enjoying it, the pictures are great too.
Thanks for working so hard on it.

becca

[mom2lilnick]

I really appreciate all your hard work for the TR! And RED!! Bring it on.. I live in Nebraska.. Go Big Red.. Huskers. LOL!! Great Times so far.

[amytheobald]

WOW that's an awesome upgrade! We love hooters too!

[bigdisgrandma]

WOW that's an awesome upgrade! We love hooters too!

Amy. I was hoping to see you at POR because we were going to be there at the same time but then we were there for only about 20 minutes. It really was an awesome upgrade!

I am loving your TR. I read the part about you driving into Florida to my husband and we just laughed at your kids' responses. We of course could never pull something like that off but I am just amazed how well you did to keep the surprise!:yay:

Denise

[amytheobald]

Amy. I was hoping to see you at POR because we were going to be there at the same time but then we were there for only about 20 minutes. It really was an awesome upgrade!

I am loving your TR. I read the part about you driving into Florida to my husband and we just laughed at your kids' responses. We of course could never pull something like that off but I am just amazed how well you did to keep the surprise!:yay:

Denise

It was unbelievable, DH and I both had butterflies all day...the surprise was worth it! I can't wait to read more of your report!

[ibdamamma]

OMGEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

What a wonderful start. But you do understand that me sitting here reading this isn't helping getting my homework done:rotfl:

I can't believe how awesome it was to get upgraded!!! Everyone looks super happy to be there rain or no rain.

Oh, and BTW was it you who sent those sweet post cards?

[bigdisgrandma]

OMGEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

What a wonderful start. But you do understand that me sitting here reading this isn't helping getting my homework done:rotfl:

I can't believe how awesome it was to get upgraded!!! Everyone looks super happy to be there rain or no rain.

Oh, and BTW was it you who sent those sweet post cards?

Wish I could take credit for it but it wasn't me! We got some too! Sorry about the homework thing. My son is in his last semester and I keep telling him when he complains about it that at least when it's done he's that much closer to being done!

Denise

[Khalana]

I'm enjoying your TR so far. It sounds like you had an awesome time!! :)

[zeppy68]

sounds likes a blast so far.


cant wait to here more

[bigdisgrandma]

This has been a busy week, Mike was out of town Mon-Wed. That meant 2 trips to the airport. I was really busy with a major project at work and then I just kind of collapsed at night. Tomorrow is my day off and I will get my house cleaned first thing in the morning and then do some trip report before I have to do the Grandma carpool and pick kids up from school!

Again, thanks for hanging in there. :thumbsup2

Denise

[maroo]

This has been a busy week, Mike was out of town Mon-Wed. That meant 2 trips to the airport. I was really busy with a major project at work and then I just kind of collapsed at night. Tomorrow is my day off and I will get my house cleaned first thing in the morning and then do some trip report before I have to do the Grandma carpool and pick kids up from school!

Again, thanks for hanging in there. :thumbsup2

Denise

Oh my gosh!! :scared1: I saw your thread on my "updated" list...and I got SOOOOO excited! We get more! and then...aw... But, I totally understand! It took me a while to post pictures and I didn't even have "stuff" to really write... but, I did want you to know that you do have an audience! (And probably some lurkers out there, too!)

So...I will put up my popcorn...popcorn:: for now... and :happytv:.

Have an awesome night! See ya tomorrow!!! :)

[bigdisgrandma]

Day 2

We began with a slightly cloudy day and hopes for clearer skies as the day went on. First thing, Misty and I got together by phone to plan our mini meet at Lindsey’s family’s villa. Part of our group need to head to Walmart. We needed to buy tickets for Seaworld and the folks at GKTW told us that you can get a discount if you purchase them in advance at Walmart. Also, Bryan’s overnight kit got left on the bathroom counter back home so he needed some things as well. Since I was going to meet Misty and her family at Lindsey’s villa, the other 4 went to Walmart to get the shopping done.

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Meanwhile, the kids and Dad had been out to the breakfast cart and over to see the lake and the ducks across the street from their front porch.

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Soon Misty, Dennis and Dylan came driving up. It was like seeing family that you have not seen in a long time but of course, we had never met in real life until that moment.

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Dilly was so darling. He brought a very cool Mickey Mouse balloon, which stayed wonderful the whole week! Misty and Denny also brought some things that they didn’t want to pack onto the plane…bottled water, pop, some snacks and assorted things. They were so kind and we really appreciated them. Especially the water!!! We had brought postcards for Dilly from Utah and a packet with Disney fun to keep him occupied on his plane ride home. To sweet, darling Misty, thanks for making the effort to come and meet us. I know, because we have now experienced it, how absolutely worn out you are at the end of the week. I love the pictures of your trip. We did take your advice and we didn’t let the little girls near the Atlantis ride. However when everyone else was in line to ride it, a thunderstorm rolled in and they closed it down so no one got to ride!

After we said our goodbyes and Dilly and his wonderful parents were on their way to Downtown Disney, we all loaded into the cars and headed for Seaworld! Bryan showed the GKTW stuff and they got special parking but our parking was not that far from them.

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Though there were really not a lot of people there, it did seem quite busy. We picked up the stroller and we were on our way.

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First we headed to the Dolphin Show. It was very cool. Karlyn loved it and when the dolphins would jump out of the water, she would do the sign for round and round and just giggle.

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After the dolphin show, we were just in time to feed the dolphins. They made special arrangements for the 3 wish families that were there and we all got to feed the dolphins. The staff could not have done more to make it an unforgettable experience. They would not let us leave until they were positive that we all had been able to feed and touch the dolphins. They also had several photographers that took lots of pictures! Karlyn absolutely loved this experience.

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Next, we went toward the Sea Rays and we got to feed and pet them as well. There was a point where I was afraid that we were going to wind up rescuing the rays from Karlyn. She would have dived right into the pool if that had been an option. And she was not shy at all about holding those little fish!

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Next time more Sea World and more rain.

[Khalana]

Awesome! I love reading about your adventures so far!! It makes me all :yay: about our trip too! :) That's so cool that you got to meet Misty and Dilly and their family.

Linda, mom to Lydia

[twinmum]

what a wonderful update! And so fantastic that you got to meet up with Misty and Dilly. We'll be looking out for any other Wish Trippers while we are there.

Sorry for the quick reply, and now 2 questions, please excuse me...

You mentioned the breakfast cart at GKTW. I'm wondering if that will be a good way to go for us on a few early (for us!) mornings. What can be found on the breakfast cart?

You described the wonderful special attention w/feeding the dolphins. Mark is very excited about seeing the dolphins - originally he wanted to swim with dolphins at Discovery Cove, but that is just not in the budget and also I think the water is likely too cold for him anyway. I have booked the special Dolphin Tour at SeaWorld as a surprise for the rest of the family, but would divert those $$$ if I knew with some certainty that Mark could have come unrushed feeding time with the dolphins. How did they arrange this for you and the other wish families?

Thanks!

Alison

[bigdisgrandma]

what a wonderful update! And so fantastic that you got to meet up with other Wish Trippers.

Sorry for the quick reply, and now a question, please excuse me...

You mentioned the breakfast cart at GKTW. I'm wondering if that will be a good way to go for us on a few early (for us!) mornings. What can be found on the breakfast cart?

Alison

Alison, I will call Lindsey and have her give you an answer to your question.

Denise

[HeatherN]

YEAH!!!!!!!! I am so loving your report so far!!!! I really love that you took pictures of everything, it is giving me warm fuzzy feelings reliving some of the places I have seen.It really makes me want to go back though...maybe someday.
I am sorry I have not stopped over sooner-I got a job last week and have had zero computer time all week.I have been thinking of you though.

Couple of thoughts:
The girls hair looked so cute
Diet caffeine free pepsi is my favorite drink!
I LOVED the kids outfits and also the wish shirts from the first day
LOVE the seaworld dolphin pics, we didn't get to do that and I was kind of dissapointed(I guess it was a timing thing) But I am so glad you got a wonderful experience with them.Hannah refused to touch the fish so it made me giggle to see Karlyn holding them.We loved feeding the rays too.
How cool that you got to meet Misty and her family!

Can't wait for more but I know what you mean about how time consuming it is to do!

[bigdismom]

what a wonderful update! And so fantastic that you got to meet up with Misty and Dilly. We'll be looking out for any other Wish Trippers while we are there.

Sorry for the quick reply, and now 2 questions, please excuse me...

You mentioned the breakfast cart at GKTW. I'm wondering if that will be a good way to go for us on a few early (for us!) mornings. What can be found on the breakfast cart?

You described the wonderful special attention w/feeding the dolphins. Mark is very excited about seeing the dolphins - originally he wanted to swim with dolphins at Discovery Cove, but that is just not in the budget and also I think the water is likely too cold for him anyway. I have booked the special Dolphin Tour at SeaWorld as a surprise for the rest of the family, but would divert those $$$ if I knew with some certainty that Mark could have come unrushed feeding time with the dolphins. How did they arrange this for you and the other wish families?

Thanks!

Alison

Sorry it has taken me so long to respond. We have gone from one activity to the next this week.
We did use the breakfast cart once. We were in too much of a hurry to use it anymore than that. It had bagels, little donuts, cereal, fruit and bread for toast. Then of course milk and juice to drink. It is your traditional continential breakfast selections. The breakfast at GKTW was about the only thing that the kids actually at. We have very picky eaters.
As far as the dolphins go we had a wonderful experience. When you get to the park make sure you ask what time they are feeding them, we feed at 11:30. You will want to plan shows around that. When you get to the feeding area there is a Sea World staff memeber trying to do crowd control and counting peolpe as they only allow a certain number of people to feed at each feeding time. Walk up to the staff memeber and let them know you are from GKTW and they will make sure you are taken care of. When we were there they took the familys from GKTW first so we could feed with out too much of a crowd. I do not feel like we were rushed at all. Even after we were done feeding we stood there for another 15 to 20 minutes just splashing in the water and petting the dolphins. It was more than we ever expected it would be.
Hope this helps answer your questions.

[Lambflock]

I am loving your TR so far!!! The pictures are great! I started crying when I was reading. I just know it was magical for all of you and I can't wait to hear and read the rest of it.

This is a great way to spend the time while Hank recovers. I want to make sure he is ready when our turn comes in November!!!

[Lambflock]

Also, I think we all need a hair tutorial!! I am going to go get some elastics today and play with Mackenzie's hair while looking at the picture. But I think that I am going to need some step by step help.

Also, what about the shoe laces?!?!?! Tell me about those!! Do you all make them with just ribbon? And how do you get them thru with out fraying???

[bigdisgrandma]

Also, I think we all need a hair tutorial!! I am going to go get some elastics today and play with Mackenzie's hair while looking at the picture. But I think that I am going to need some step by step help.

Also, what about the shoe laces?!?!?! Tell me about those!! Do you all make them with just ribbon? And how do you get them thru with out fraying???

I called Lindsey and told her to put a little tutorial about the hairdos in the post. She says she will.

About the shoe laces. They are 40" long pieces of ribbon. The Satin ribbon ties tighter that the Grossgrain ribbon does but either one works really well. You cut the ribbon on a slant and then use a match or lighter or candle to gently melt the cut edges of the ribbon and then they won't fray. Lindsey really want the girls to have shoes that matched their outfits so she got cute leather tennis shoes at Target and then different colored ribbons for laces. She also bought those ruffly nylon socks for the girls with the lace trim and then sewed colored ribbons on the edge of the lace as well. We had lots of comments on them and they were really simple and relatively inexpensive if you can get a great buy on the ribbon. Of course, if you are only doing one little girl it isn't too bad at all! I think the shoes were around $10.

:love:
Denise

[Lambflock]

Awesome!!! I am so excited about the hair tutorial!!!:thumbsup2 Make sure you post a link to it to for me!!! YEAH!!

And the laces!!! How easy and exciting!!! I am all over it!!!

[bigdisgrandma]

So after we fed the dolphins and the rays, we headed toward Atlantis and Kraken. Grandma, Grandpa and the little girls were going to sit this adventure out but everyone else was really ready to go. Grandpa went and got ice cream for the girls and we began our wait. As we watched, boat after boat on the Atlantis ride went by without any riders. Then the skies got a little dark and we began to hear announcements that the ride was temporarily having problems. So we waited and waited some more.

Finally, Mandy came running back and told us to head off to the Shamu show and they would meet us there. So the four of us started off to the other side of the park to the Shamu theater. I think we walked about 50 miles, sorry, slight exaggeration, but it did seem like a really long way. We got pretty good seats and then began the watch for the other 6 people to show up. The only bad thing was that we had all the cell phones so there was no way to let them know where we were sitting. Now you need to understand that it makes Grandpa Kelly absolutely crazy to have to save seats. He is a true believer in everybody get to your spot and that is that. So I have the little girls taking up as much space as 2 35 pound little girls can take and we wait. I am just really glad that the park was not overly full so there were lots of seats. We didn’t have to feel guilty saving those seats. With about 10 minutes until the show started, everyone else showed up. Atlantis never did open up so they had ridden Kraken instead. I don’t feel one bit bad that I missed that one! Sorry, no pictures of us waiting, I didn’t realize that we had the cameras with us. Besides, once again, I don’t do picture taking!
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0109.jpg

The show was great. Mandy had been to SeaWorld in San Diego in February and said that the show then was kind of boring. She described it as “Roll over whale!” This was much, much better. I am thinking that they might have been training a new Shamu in San Diego. Once again, the kids were amazed by the show!

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0116.jpg
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0115.jpg

When the Shamu show ended, we were ready to find something to eat. However, the skies opened up and began to pour once again. Out came the ponchos but I am not sure what’s worse, being rained on or having a poncho stick to you!
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0153.jpg
We waited under the bleachers for the stadium till the rain slowed down a little bit and then we headed off for the SeaFire Inn and Bar.

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http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0131.jpg
It was not crowded and was nice and cool inside. The kids meals were served in Shamu lunch boxes and were really cute. I had a kid’s meal and brought my Shamu home with me. They also had very cute Whale shaped bowls with strawberries that the adult “kids” had a lot of fun using as props for jokes. The pics of foods did not turn out well. However, we obviously liked it!
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0121.jpg
There was also a cute show about animals on the stage in the restaurant that we enjoyed.

After food, it was time to head in the direction of the Seymour and Clyde show. Now I have been going to SeaWorld for about 30 years and I never miss Seymour and Clyde.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0175.jpg

Karlyn and Grandpa liked imitating the seals.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0165-1.jpg
A few of the jokes have changed but for the most part it is truly a classic show! We really love the Mime that is the preshow entertainment. You don’t want to miss it!
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0170.jpg
Don't we look like we are having fun?
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0162-1.jpg

After the show, we headed for the penguins display. We just love penguins and they were really fun to watch.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0550.jpg


This is where we finally got a chance for Gabby to do a handstand so that we could get pictures for her to take to her Gymnastics class.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0544.jpg

Now it was time for a little shopping and then we needed to head back to GKTW for Christmas and Santa. But we had to make one stop for another handstand picture.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0551.jpg


Once again, though, the rain was coming down in buckets.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0555.jpg
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0552.jpg

Next, Christmas at Give Kids the World.

[bigdisgrandma]

YEAH!!!!!!!! I am so loving your report so far!!!! I really love that you took pictures of everything, it is giving me warm fuzzy feelings reliving some of the places I have seen.It really makes me want to go back though...maybe someday.
I am sorry I have not stopped over sooner-I got a job last week and have had zero computer time all week.I have been thinking of you though.

Couple of thoughts:
The girls hair looked so cute
Diet caffeine free pepsi is my favorite drink!
I LOVED the kids outfits and also the wish shirts from the first day
LOVE the seaworld dolphin pics, we didn't get to do that and I was kind of dissapointed(I guess it was a timing thing) But I am so glad you got a wonderful experience with them.Hannah refused to touch the fish so it made me giggle to see Karlyn holding them.We loved feeding the rays too.
How cool that you got to meet Misty and her family!

Can't wait for more but I know what you mean about how time consuming it is to do!

Congrats on the new job. :cool1: I have worked for the same group of pediatricians for almost 17 years. I think I will retire from Wasatch Pediatrics and hopefully never work full time again! But not for a couple of more years.:laughing:

It was so much fun to meet Misty, Dennis and Dylan. I think one of the greatest things would be to have a big get together so that we can hug everyone!

Give your kids a hug for me.

:love:
Denise

[bigdisgrandma]

I thought today was going to be so exciting. I got a package from DisneyWorld and I knew what it was. Mike bought me a Cinderella Snowglobe for my collection. He chose Cinderella because this was truly the "Princess" trip. When I went to open the package, it was easy to tell that something was broken, really broken. At some point the whole package must have been wet from the water leaking out from the broken snowglobe. :sad1:

Oh well, no harm, just make the call to Disney and get a replacement...not so fast. The lady on the other end of the line was very sorry, but there is not another Cinderella snowglobe available. She said that they had been sold out for quite sometime and she was surprised that I had been able to purchase that one in Hollywood Studios. She then asked me if I knew what snowglobe I would like to replace it with.:confused3 I explained that I was in Utah not Florida and didn't have a clue. They will be crediting our Visa card but I am so sad not to have that particular SnowGlobe. I told Mike that this means another trip to Orlando just to buy a replacement!:rotfl:

Sorry, I just had to have a feel sorry for myself moment!

Denise

[Khalana]

Love, love, LOVE your update!!! And the pictures are great! :) I laughed when I saw the picture of you guys sitting and not smiling at the camera, lol. :laughing:

I'll be waiting by my computer for the next installment! :surfweb:

[Khalana]

I thought today was going to be so exciting. I got a package from DisneyWorld and I knew what it was. Mike bought me a Cinderella Snowglobe for my collection. He chose Cinderella because this was truly the "Princess" trip. When I went to open the package, it was easy to tell that something was broken, really broken. At some point the whole package must have been wet from the water leaking out from the broken snowglobe. :sad1:

Oh well, no harm, just make the call to Disney and get a replacement...not so fast. The lady on the other end of the line was very sorry, but there is not another Cinderella snowglobe available. She said that they had been sold out for quite sometime and she was surprised that I had been able to purchase that one in Hollywood Studios. She then asked me if I knew what snowglobe I would like to replace it with.:confused3 I explained that I was in Utah not Florida and didn't have a clue. They will be crediting our Visa card but I am so sad not to have that particular SnowGlobe. I told Mike that this means another trip to Orlando just to buy a replacement!:rotfl:

Sorry, I just had to have a feel sorry for myself moment!

Denise

That's too bad! :( But if it leads to another trip soon, maybe something good wil come of it. :)

[ibdamamma]

:lmao: I love the handstand pictures!!! The day we went to seaworld it rained too. I hate those poncho's, I really do. The girls looked like they were having a blast. And I am so sorry for your snow globe.:guilty: I know you must be heartbroken. Try checking ebay for one:flower3:

[Lambflock]

I can't wait to hear and see the pictures from Christmas at GKTW!!

Your pictures are wonderful!!!

[GoofyDoo]

Denise, I'm here!! I've been incredibly busy at work these past few weeks, and it's so much fun to log in when I get a sec and catch up on your trip. I'm loving every minute of it!! YAY--the handstand picture! I've been waiting for that one!! And I SO know what you mean about walking fifty bazillion miles to the Shamu show. I'm glad it's not just me that felt that way! I love SeaWorld, but the one in Orlando seems extra spread-out. Of course, we were there on Day 7, so I'm sure exhaustion had something to do with it. I'm so sorry about your snowglobe!! That stinks!! I love snow globes. Every time disneyshopping.com puts them on sale, I look through every single one of them and put several in my shopping cart, then I get a hold of myself and come to my senses before I spend the money. It's hard, but no telling what Little-spender Lance would say if thirteen snowglobes arrived in the mail all at once. When we got back I did buy a snowglobe from GKTW. I'm giving to the kids for Christmas.

Anyway, just wanted you to know that I am here! I'm loving your updates and look forward to more!! xo

[maroo]

Oh my gosh! I can't wait to hear about Christmas! I hope it comes before we leave!! :)

We are missing Christmas...somehow we are there from Friday to Thursday (leaving Thurs afternoon), so I am sad about that.

Loving the TR!!! :)

[AURORA73]

Great report so far! I am so sorry about the snowglobe. I know how sad you are about that. It's too bad they didn't have another one to replace it. Like you said that means another trip to get a new one.

I love the handstand pictures. You are glad you missed out on Kraken. From what Mandy told me I would have sat that one out myself!!

Looking forward to the next installment!

[bex271]

I've been catching up with your report and i too love the hand stand pictures and can't wait to see the GKTW christmas pictures. I hate it about the snow globe.

becca

[Robin+5]

Denise,

We would have so much fun if our families got together :thumbsup2 I love your report. I agree with you 100% about the ponchos. Sweat or get Wet :confused3 which one is worse. We loved the Shamu show too. That park does feel very spread out. I am so sorry about the snow globe :sad2: Have you tried the mail order phone number on the Disney Parks reciept? I called that number looking for doll clothes that we had seen in a store at the Contempory Resort. They were able to locate the items I wanted and I was able to order them for my younger daughters for Christmas. You need to tell them a full item description, price, and where you saw it. Maybe :confused3
We didn't make any of the GKTW events. There just wasn't enough time :sad1: I can't wait to read about yours :)

[kimmylaj]

just letting you know i am loving your report and cant wait for more

[jham]

Okay, here's my first attempt at "The Karlyn" This is on day 2 so it's not in prime form :laughing: but Lindsey, I LOVE this hairstyle! You are right, it stays in really well! I mean day 2 on a 3 year old that naps and pulls blankets over her head--not bad! Thank you! Maybe someday I will be brave enough to attempt "The Gabby" bun, but it looks hard!

http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd149/jhaml/IMG_1535-1.jpg
http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd149/jhaml/IMG_1536-1.jpg

[bigdisgrandma]

Okay, here's my first attempt at "The Karlyn" This is on day 2 so it's not in prime form :laughing: but Lindsey, I LOVE this hairstyle! You are right, it stays in really well! I mean day 2 on a 3 year old that naps and pulls blankets over her head--not bad! Thank you! Maybe someday I will be brave enough to attempt "The Gabby" bun, but it looks hard!

http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd149/jhaml/IMG_1535-1.jpg
http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd149/jhaml/IMG_1536-1.jpg

Jeanne, it is darling. You will become a convert in no time to the do-ahead hair! I think Lindsey is working on some kind of tutorial for a variety of styles!

Denise

[Lambflock]

Okay, here's my first attempt at "The Karlyn" This is on day 2 so it's not in prime form :laughing: but Lindsey, I LOVE this hairstyle! You are right, it stays in really well! I mean day 2 on a 3 year old that naps and pulls blankets over her head--not bad! Thank you! Maybe someday I will be brave enough to attempt "The Gabby" bun, but it looks hard!

http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd149/jhaml/IMG_1535-1.jpg
http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd149/jhaml/IMG_1536-1.jpg

OMGosh!!! You did such a great job!

Ok, I think I am going to give it a shot!!!:thumbsup2

[teresajoy]

Jeanne, it is darling. You will become a convert in no time to the do-ahead hair! I think Lindsey is working on some kind of tutorial for a variety of styles!

Denise


I can't wait for a tutorial!! I have a bunch of hairstyle blogs bookmarked in my bookmarks, but with Lydia in school full time, I don't have time to do it in the morning. A do ahead style is just what I need!!!

Loving the report so far Denise!!! I like that Pluto shirt too! :thumbsup2 I'm so sorry about the snowglobe, that had to be so disapointing! :hug:

[bigdisgrandma]

Warning, if you are heading to GKTW for a wish trip and do not want to know what the Christmas party looks like, please skip this episode. I thought about not sharing these pictures so as not to spoil the surprise for future wish trippers but then there are a few readers who are not wish trip families and would love to see pictures of Give Kids the World so here we go…

After our slightly soggy day at Seaworld, we were really hoping that the rain would go away and we would have clear skies but it wasn’t to be. Any spots you may see on clothes are leftover raindrops. They had cancelled the carriage rides because of the rain and also the snow. Being a little damp, we grabbed the umbrellas, we had given up on the ponchos for the time being and headed toward the theater where we would get to see Santa. The theater is amazing, brightly painted jungle walls with not so scary jungle animals.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0197.jpg

I guess you could call this picture “Karlyn with her entourage” because whatever she wanted, one of these big guys would get it, do it or be it for her.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0198.jpg

Santa had a comfy couch on the stage with giant snowflakes around him where the kids could sit with him.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0199.jpg

The GKTW photographer took pictures of the kids with Santa and then one with all of us. I just am not really good at downloading them yet.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0200.jpg

After the chat with Santa, he told each of the kids that now it was time for presents. He told them he had special elves who would help them pick out a wonderful gift and he was right. At the back of the theater, there was a long row of racks of toys for the kids to choose from for their gift.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0202.jpg

Brody chose a Dallas Cowboys Nerf Football. (None of us were surprised) The girls chose newborn kittens. Gabby was quick to tell Grandpa and Aunt Mandy that they were not real kittens because she is always worrying because she knows they are very allergic to cats. I love the picture of Bryan taking a picture of the girls. He is using the camera that Make A Wish sent along on the trip for pictures for the scrapbook they keep at the wishing place.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0204.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0205.jpg

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http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/DSCI0209.jpg

Also in the theater, they had face painting, snow cones, a complete theater snack bar with nachos, popcorn, drinks and slurpies. The girls got faces painted; well actually, Karlyn had a rainbow painted on her hand. Several people got snow cones and we headed off for a new adventure at the ice cream palace.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0568.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0583.jpg
It was a hard decision for Brody because he wanted to play football but he also wanted some ice cream and knew there was no throwing the ball inside the store. We all had some ice cream but somehow only have pictures of some of the skinny people eating it. I love the tabletops in there. They are so fun.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0569.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0574.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0573.jpg

Also inside the ice cream palace that night, they had elves that would let the kids choose a storybook and then the elves would read it to them. After they finished reading the books, the kids got to take the books they had chosen home.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0577.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0584.jpg

Next up, cookie decorating. The girls wanted to do this but Brody went outside to toss the football back and forth with Uncle Jason, Uncle Tim and Dad. As you can see, there were lots of colors of frosting, lots of choices of decorations and a good time was had by all.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0590.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0592.jpg

More to come in just a few minutes...

[bigdisgrandma]

Christmas part 2

After the fun at the ice cream palace, we went over and got a little dinner but no one remembered to take pictures. They had a turkey dinner with green salad, turkey, carrots, mashed potatoes and gravy, dressing (or stuffing depending on where you live), rolls, sweet potatoes and dessert. For those of us not staying at GKTW, dinner cost 1 bunny buck ($1) a real bargain.

After dinner we found a giant gingerbread man, Mayor Clayton and Merry Clayton so of course, more pictures.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0603.jpg

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At first Karlyn didn’t want anything to do with them. She just wanted the grandpa.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0599.jpg

Then the kids all wanted to ride the merry-go-round. It is a most wonderful merry-go-round easily accessible for wheelchairs and lots of fun choices for riding. The first trip, Karlyn fell in love with the turtle. It is actually one of the wheelchair accessible animals but the great lady running the ride quickly changed it to a seat for Karlyn and she was in heaven.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0616.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0610.jpg

On the next trip, she decided that she wanted to go up and down on a horse. Now going round and round is not Grandpa’s favorite thing to do but for Karlyn, he would do almost anything so off he went again.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0618.jpg

Dad and Brody

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0609.jpg

Mom and Gabby

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0608.jpg

When we were done with the merry-go-round, we went into the Castle of Miracles. Inside, Mrs. Florida and Ms Florida were playing with kids and dancing and having a great time. These ladies were as fun as they were beautiful!

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0624.jpg

Of course, Gabby had to have another handstand picture.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0643.jpg

Next, off to make pillows. The pillow-making machine is very cool. Each one of the kids got to make their own pillow.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0628.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0630.jpg

As you can tell, Karlyn is really a pink and green kind of girl!

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0631.jpg

Everyone loved the slides inside the castle, even Mom.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0640.jpg

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Aunt Mandy wanted everyone to realize that she truly is the queen!

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0642.jpg

Here are the pictures of the real King and Queens!

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0646.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0644.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0647.jpg

Karlyn and Uncle Jason loved the room with lots of drawers and doors to open, each one with a surprise.

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0632.jpg

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0634.jpg

Who do you think could fit in this little suit of armor?

http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG0649.jpg

Finally, we were all exhausted and so we trudged outside to head home. Next up Bippity, Boppity, Boutique and Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.

[Robin+5]

Great report :) :)
I love reliving GKTW. I wish we had done more there. But the place is just so awesome :cool1: :thumbsup2
Robin

[AURORA73]

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! for the GKTW Christmas Party pictures.:love: I cried the whole way through them until I got to the Queen Mandy picture and then I laughed. What a wonderful place GKTW is!

I want the hair tutorial. I have always wanted to know how you do the Gabby and Karlyn's hair like that Lindsey. It is so darling. I want to try it out on my niece.

[Khalana]

Great update, Denise!!! My chin just about fell to the floor when I saw the rows and rows and ROWS of toys!!! :eek: That is just crazy! I know I maybe shouldn't spoil the surprise but I knew about most of the Christmas activities already (though not about all those toys :rotfl: ). I eagerly await more! :thumbsup2

[inkedupmomma]

wow! what a wonderful expirience for you all!! and dont you know im the queen of kids crazy hair styles and i have never done that one on my daughter! it would be perfect for cheerleading and soccer games!

[bex271]

Thank you for showing that now i'm even more excited, I'm just not gonna tell Jonah about the toys. I can't wait to read more.

becca

[Lambflock]

I am soooo glad that I looked at the Christmas pictures at GKTW!!! I loved it!! It makes me even more excited to go in about a month!!!

I love all your pictures!! They really are great!!

[teresajoy]

Great pictures Denise!!! Thank you for sharing these! I am so enjoying reading your report! :thumbsup2

[hotmamac]

What a fabulous trip report so far!!!
Thank you for all the wonderful photos! I'm the kind that likes to know all the details before I go somewhere, although I'm not showing the kids the pictures cause I do want it to be a surprise for them.
Keep the updates coming!!!

[bigdismom]

It is not as hard as it looks. The more we do the hairstyles you have seen we have come to the realization that it is all in the elastic that you use. I use the small rubber elastics and not the one covered with thread. The rubber elastics told the hair tighter and that is what allows you to do it at night and it will still will look good in the morning. I get my elastics at WalMart in the baby department. The girls like the colored ones.
Here we go:
I like to have the girls hair damp as it helps you to part easier.
Make a part approx 1.5 inches long down the middle of the head.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1080.jpg
Make a part all of the way around the head 1.5 inches from the hair line.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1082.jpg
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1083.jpg
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1084.jpg
Pull all of the remaining hair on the top of the head into a Piggy tail to keep it out of the way.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1085.jpg
Go back to the original part and start parting off small sections of hair. The smaller the part the more sections you will have. You can adjust the size depending on how long you think that your girl will stay still.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1087.jpg
Continue this process until you reach the backside of the ear.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1089.jpg
Go back to the original part and repeat the process on the left side of the head. Doing one side at a time will allow you to keep the parts and # of "piggys" even on both sides.
At this point you will have a section of hair at the back of the head. I like to have Gabby turn around and face me and tip her head down. The elastics will lay a little flatter by doing this. But it is not necessary if your girl will not cooperate.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1092.jpg
Part the remaining hair in half
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1094.jpg
Part each one of these setions in two. Creating four sections.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1096.jpg
Place elastics in each one of the remaining sections.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1097.jpg
This is what you should now have.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1098.jpg
Take the hair on top of the head out of the elastic and comb all of the hair into a Pony tail.
http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k477/Lindseyz08/IMG_1099.jpg
From this point it is all up to you. This day Gabby wanted it left in a pony tail. You can do also do a braided bun like we had Gabby's hair on the first day of our trip.
We left this hair style in for two days. You may need to smooth out the piggy in the mornings but that is eay comapred to doing a whole hair style.
Hopefully I will get a few minutes to post another sytle a little later today.

[teresajoy]

Thank you for the tutorial, I can't wait to try this out!!!!

[twinmum]

Hello! First of all, let me tell you, I absolutely LOVE the girls' hair! They look so beautiful! Now...could I find the patience to do this myself? Um...no. So perhaps this is why we have been blessed with twin boys, not girls. I know this will make me sound like an awful mother, but I think we end up brushing the boys' hair, em...well...about...once a week?!? Yup, they are wash 'n go guys, lather up that hair, rinse it off, towel dry, and - occasionally - one of them will like the fun of the blow dry and - once in a blue moon - a little dab of gel to make it stand up. That's it.

If I may, I have another question, just curious. I saw that Brody found a neat nerf football at the Christmas party. I'm not telling our boys about it in advance, but want to prep them just before as needed. Are there many options for (somewhat) older kids, especially boys? (Eek! Can my boys really be considered somewhat older?!? You can see I'm taking the upcoming 10th birthday (Oct.23rd) somewhat hard.) If most of the wonderful toys are for the little ones, of course that will be fine, but I'll want to explain that to the boys so they'll understand.

Thanks!
Alison

[bigdisgrandma]

Thank you for the tutorial, I can't wait to try this out!!!!

You're so talented, I know you will be an expert in no time!

Hello! First of all, let me tell you, I absolutely LOVE the girls' hair! They look so beautiful! Now...could I find the patience to do this myself? Um...no. So perhaps this is why we have been blessed with twin boys, not girls. I know this will make me sound like an awful mother, but I think we end up brushing the boys' hair, em...well...about...once a week?!? Yup, they are wash 'n go guys, lather up that hair, rinse it off, towel dry, and - occasionally - one of them will like the fun of the blow dry and - once in a blue moon - a little dab of gel to make it stand up. That's it.

If I may, I have another question, just curious. I saw that Brody found a neat nerf football at the Christmas party. I'm not telling our boys about it in advance, but want to prep them just before as needed. Are there many options for (somewhat) older kids, especially boys? (Eek! Can my boys really be considered somewhat older?!? You can see I'm taking the upcoming 10th birthday (Oct.23rd) somewhat hard.) If most of the wonderful toys are for the little ones, of course that will be fine, but I'll want to explain that to the boys so they'll understand.

Thanks!
Alison

We usually just buzz our boys hair so that it is easy for them to do. However, because Aunt Mandy is a licensed Cosmetologist, she frequently will do some fun things with the boys. She has put little bits of color in their hair, blond in the boys with dark hair and dark in the boys with light hair, spiked hair and sometimes totally buzzed right off. It is so wonderful to have her around. I can get a haircut late at night and she never complains (well, hardly ever because her dad loves to tease her that haircuts are how she pays us rent!)

As far as gifts at GKTW, they had lots of different types of board games, electronic games, walkie talkies, I think even I-pod like things. Because they have kids all different ages, I believe there were things that older kids would like. I know Brody had a wee bit of a struggle deciding because there were several things he would have chosen (He will turn 11 on October 13th) if they hadn't had that Cowboys football. I will check with Lindsey and see if she remembers any of the other things he was debating about.


Denise

[mickimousemama]

My DD LOVES her hair done like that :) I realized this summer tho that Sunscreen eats the little elastic bands, so now I put those cheapy stretchy ones over the rubber ones or little clips just in case.
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y90/momiilu/Ellee/7-19-08244.jpg

I just found your trip report so trying to read from the begining, but had to comment on the cute hair before I go back to reading again.

[revrob]

I missed the hair tutorial. Can someone tell me what page it's on? I'd love to learn how to do this hairstyle.

[bigdisgrandma]

I missed the hair tutorial. Can someone tell me what page it's on? I'd love to learn how to do this hairstyle.

It is on the bottom of page 25. I know Lindsey is going to do another one soon.

Hope it works for you.

Denise

[FSUDisneyGirl]

What fun hair...and what a fun trip! Thanks for sharing!!!

[Robin+5]

What fun hair...and what a fun trip! Thanks for sharing!!!

I noticed in your signature WDW college program. My daughter is in college and just went to an information session about that. She is very interested. What did you think of it? Would you recommend it? What did you do for work at WDW?
Robin

[Lambflock]

I am not able to do that tutorial because Mackenzie has short hair (she cut it off last May for Locks of Love:lovestruc ). I am looking forward to the next one though! This will be great for when we go on our trip in 29 days!!!!:cool1:

[bigdisgrandma]

I am not able to do that tutorial because Mackenzie has short hair (she cut it off last May for Locks of Love:lovestruc ). I am looking forward to the next one though! This will be great for when we go on our trip in 29 days!!!!:cool1:

How wonderful that she did locks of love. Our oldest grandaughter, Maggie who is 11 has done that 3 times and just loves to do it. She has really thick naturally curly red hair! I'll tell Lindsey to hurry up with another one for shorter hair.

Denise

[bigdisgrandma]

I noticed in your signature WDW college program. My daughter is in college and just went to an information session about that. She is very interested. What did you think of it? Would you recommend it? What did you do for work at WDW?
Robin

Robin, Send me a PM with a way I can get more info to you. I have a friend whose son started out doing the college program, then was a recruiter and now works as a singer and dancer CM at Magic Kingdom. We got to see him when we were there for Karlyn's trip!
Denise

[AURORA73]

popcorn::

Ready for more!

[Lambflock]

popcorn:: My popcorn is getting stale and my coke is watering down!!! I need and update!!!! ;)

[Lambflock]

Where are you?!?!?! We need an update!!!;)

[jham]

Yeah, some people can put up an entire TR within 24 hours of getting home! :snooty: :laughing: :rolleyes1 Of course there is the speed vs. quality issue...

[bigdisgrandma]

Okay, I really do have tons of excuses but I am hoping to get the next installment done by tomorrow. My life has been restored to the total bedlam stage that seems to be the norm these days. I did complete all the poodle skirts, which won first prize at the party!:cool1: Recovered from a case of the stomach flu. Anne and I are almost done with Raegan's Snow White Costume. I have cut out a Spiderman cape for Mason. Yes we all know that spiderman doesn't have a cape but Mason insists that he does along with a hat (mask) so our Spidey will have a very fine red cape to go with the costume. Lindsey is making Alice in Wonderland and the Queen of Hearts for Gabby and Karlyn, respectively. Some of the other girls are being a Vampiress (?), a fairy, Cinderella and other assorted fun costumes. And of course someone else will need a quick something before Halloween. Because Mike and I will be flying home on Halloween, my costume will include a very fun Halloween Sweatshirt that Mike bought me for my birthday yesterday.

Mandy and Lindsey are making a wedding cake today for our neighbor's daughter's wedding tomorrow evening and Nena (my daughter in law) and Anne my 3rd daughter are doing the catering for the reception.

We are having our family Ghoulish Goodies Halloween Dinner on Sunday night because Mike and I need to be in Washington DC Monday through Friday next week. The Grandkids just love this dinner. Everything has a creepy, weird name. Sometimes it's Dead Man's meatloaf (shaped like a body) with a plastic knife stuck into the body after it is baked or Snake body sandwiches or bloody eye ball deviled eggs to go with octopus hotdogs and seaweed, pus pocket sandwiches (pita bread filled with shredded mozzarrella cheese and then baked until the cheese is melted and oozes out of the middle of the bread) and of course we never forget the poisonous punch to drink and some sort of gross goodies like worm filled cupcakes or whatever. I do believe that we have more Halloween cookbooks than any other type in our collection.

And to top it all off, my father has been in the hospital for more than a week now so that means trips to see him as well!

I know my life is no where near as complicated as some of yours but these are my excuses and I am stuck with them.:confused3

More to come soon, I promise.
Denise

[bigdisgrandma]

Yeah, some people can put up an entire TR within 24 hours of getting home! :snooty: :laughing: :rolleyes1 Of course there is the speed vs. quality issue...


I am so impressed, I can hardly believe it. I am off to read right now!

[Robin+5]

Boy I thought my life was busy. Yours is action packed :) Sounds like lots of fun though. My kids would go crazy :cool1: if I did a dinner like that for them. Maybe I will look up a few weird dishes to feed them on Friday night. :banana: Our town and the towns around us all go trick or treating on Oct. 30 not the 31st. I don't know why :confused3 So on Friday they would not expect anything. :rolleyes1
Hope your week in DC goes ok.

I got the job :banana: as an RN in a busy pediatric office. I start on Nov. 3rd. Little nervous but excited :) Any tricks or tips you might be able to give.

Robin

[AmberGreenawalt]

I TOTALLY understand about the crazy-busy life so I will patiently await your next installment. But I must say this...I have missed you....especially on the Wish Trippers Unite thread :)

[AURORA73]

I hope things have calmed down in your crazy busy life. We are really missing your trip report.;)

[LuvGoing2Disney7]

I too am missing your trip report. I hope time is on your side and we get to see more soon :)

[maroo]

I am missing your TR so much.

I hope you got to see the Dolphin part of Lauren's trip...you had so much to do with making that happen!! The information you provided was a life saver for that dream! A "dream saver"!!! :)

We miss your TR...

So let me grab some popcorn!

popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::

[Lambflock]

popcorn::

[teresajoy]

popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::
:rolleyes1

[maroo]

I ran out of popcorn...

Teresa...can I have some of yours?!?

:)

[tinytreasures]

I ran out of popcorn...

Teresa...can I have some of yours?!?

:)

I'll share popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::

[ndloewen]

Oh my gosh... just found your trip report and I am hooked!!

More...I NEED more!!!!!!!:jumping1:

[jham]

Just popped up a fresh batch...popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: there's plenty for everyone!

[teresajoy]

Just popped up a fresh batch...popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: there's plenty for everyone!

Thanks Jeanne! I'll take some!

popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::

[maroo]

we are so funny!

Does anyone have contact info for this family? Just want to make sure everything is ok?

[ndloewen]

Maybe if we just keep posting, they will come back to us???

Gotta get my share of the popcorn...hey, can't find the smiley popcorn!! Ok...who ate it all???

Ahhh...found it!!
popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::

[jham]

we are so funny!

Does anyone have contact info for this family? Just want to make sure everything is ok?


I think she's okay, just super busy. I'll try to email her later today if I remember. :upsidedow

[teresajoy]

I think she's okay, just super busy. I'll try to email her later today if I remember. :upsidedow

Thanks Jeanne! :thumbsup2

[inkedupmomma]

Hey there, how are you and your fam?? Long time no poat, I'm starting to get worried! Hope all is super well!

[maroo]

Has anyone talked with them? I hope that everything is ok?!? Did we ever get an email out to them?

I, too, hope all is well!!