Shake and Bake! TR link up FINALLY!!!!

[AZMickeyfans]

Hi to everyone in PTR land! :wave: I’ve read some really fun ones lately and have been inspired to write my own. My kids are back to school now so I’m really excited to get to all the details of the upcoming trip planned out.

We are headed to the World Oct 2-14. This will be my kids FIRST visit to WDW! :yay: I’m so excited for them to see it all. I wanted this to be a surprise but I just couldn’t hold it in. Years of surprise DL trips has squeezed all of the secrecy out of me. So we plan together with all of your help of course!

I love Talladega Nights.:rotfl2: Can’t stand NASCAR racing but love that movie. That and Wedding Crashers has the best one liners out there right now and are widely used in our house and will be used in this report frequently and sometimes inappropriately. I’m hoping Oct comes here with race car speed! I would put the Eleanor Roosevelt fake quote here in the beginning of the movie but it has some not so family friendly words in it. For those that have seen it, picture it here!

Let me skate on into the intros

"We go together like Chinese food and chocolate pudding" Cal Naughton Jr

Here is our last professional picture we had taken 2 years ago. I need go get a new family one but havent done so yet.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/Familypicture2006.jpg

Me: Shawna, 34, Stay at home mom for 8 years:laundy: , loving every minute of it. Sarcastic, spontaneous and full of unappreciated humor most of the time. I try to make my kids childhood full of wonderful memories like mine was. We believe in pixie dust and magic in this house. I’m also prone to violence in the form of socking dh in the arm when he thinks I am wrong or not funny. Believe me its justified when he doesn’t like my jokes! Remember I said unappreciated humor. My talents are interpretive dancing mostly to the ER theme song in my living room. Come to think of it that’s the best it gets for me. Broadway will not be calling anytime soon. I think I sing like Sarah McLachlin but only to “Arms of an Angel”. I also think I sound like Leona Lewis to “Keep Bleeding Love”. You should begin to see I’m delusional as well.

Me with my little man
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1000938.jpg

15 years ago, this August, I :angel: met my husband pirate: on the WDW College program. I was 19, innocent, full of joy at the prospect of working for the Mouse and scared to death of moving away from my family for the first time. He was 22, looking for girls and the bars. :sad2: Not into the parks much but loved to lay out in the FL sun at the pool. He was one hot tamale. We were total opposites back then. We have been married 10 ½ years. Lets introduce him

Dh: Jeff, 37, he’s awesome. I tease that man a lot but he really rocks. Not many a man could put up with my constant silliness. I’m like living with a 3 year old sometimes. Jeff is a great father. He buys his kids annual passes to Disneyland and takes them as often as he can get off of work. How cool is that?. He’s a restaurant General Manager and works about 60-70 hours per week. He needs this vacation. We need the time with him. Totally obsessed with landscaping. He should be a landscape architect because he has some mad skills when it comes to yard design. Our yard looks like a cross between the Wilderness Lodge and the Polynesian. I know it sounds weird but its so cool. Not water friendly in the desert but its easy to spot. Directions to the house are “take the 2nd left and look for the house that doesn’t belong” He’s always out there to relax rearranging things or planting something he picked up from the local nursery. He’ll say things like “I’d like to make this area look like Big Thunder Mountain RR” THAT people is why I married him.:love: Disney Love creeps into our every day lives.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1000896.jpg

"You remind me of me, precocious and full of wonderment" Ricky Bobby

DD: Morgan princess: 8, well, 7 for 7 more days. She turns 8 next weekend. A dancer and a very talented one at that. I don’t know where she gets it. I mean I have my ER skills so I don’t want to sell myself short but I just don’t have the gift she has. She can do it all and does. Morgan wishes there were more hours in the day so she could do everything. She takes a million dance classes a week and wants to do more. She loves school. Loves math, bless her little heart. She is so sweet to her little brother and can be like a little mother to him. :love: A girlie girl to the core. Absolutely no tomboy in her. Hannah, Miley, Nick, Kevin and Joe rock her world.. Thought I was the Queen of the earth when I took her to the concert last year for her birthday! :cheer2: She has danced at Disneyland twice this past year and wants to do it as a full time job.

First day of school pictures for the kiddos

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1000880.jpg

DS: Jake pirate: 5, The man, The Stud. The master of the Shake and Bake fist bump. The comedian of the house. He is the funniest person alive. Used to be super shy but is coming out of it lately. Brace yourselves people!!! The man is letting the outside world see the real Jake. I’m telling you he is hysterical. I’ve decided there should be a mandatory living with a little boy law so that we swap boys around so everyone can experience the array of humor that comes from body parts and bathroom visits from 5 year old boys. :rotfl2: Its just impossible to be in a bad mood around this guy. Absolutely believes he is marrying his sister. :love: He worships her every move and hangs on her every word. The love he has for her melts my heart like chocolate and makes me want to weep. He is currently playing football. Only one week into it so I’ll keep you updated on how it goes. He also just got his yellow belt in karate. He is now the perfect height to hit his father in the family jewels when he practices his new moves. Thankfully we are done having kids.

Off to kindergarten sniff, sniff:sad1: Group hug please :grouphug:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1000876.jpg

Honorary member of this vacation is our dog Samantha, Sammy, Sam or most commonly known as NoSamantha! She is a 12 year old Rottweiller that will be temporarily moving in with Grandma while we are gone. She dropped out of dog training multiple times. We gave up. Jake is her buddy. They are 2 peas in a pod. NoSamantha has the talent of biting a toilet paper roll like an apple. :rotfl: Jeff has a love/hate relationship with her because he feels she is old enough to stop rummaging though the garbage. But like any good senior citizen, she is throwing the rules out the window as she gets older (much like Grandma). :headache: Its like, I'm so old I'm willing to risk everything for that empty can of beef ravioli waiting for me to get it stuck on my nose. Here she is.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1000680.jpg


This PTR is also inspired by Jeff who is not as excited as he should be about our upcoming trip to the World. :rolleyes: Its not that he isn’t excited, he loves Disney as much as I do, he is just not that excited about me talking about it NONSTOP. He is also too busy to plan with me. So here is where you all come in my fellow DISsers understanding that our Disney trip is all that I think about these days. Lurkers on this PTR, Unheard of! So sit down and introduce yourself, I’ve got 47 days!

Up next, past Disney experiences


Guide to Insanity

Where it all Began (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26978132&postcount=7)
Kids 1st trip to Disneyland! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26978937&postcount=9)
The "Overview" (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27011640&postcount=33)
Real World of Male Modeling (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27122914&postcount=64)
Birthday distractions from the DIS (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27123176&postcount=66)
Yard distractions (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27123176&postcount=66)
Yard Distractions part deux (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27139363&postcount=81)
Disney Store finds!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27139363&postcount=81)
"If you ain't first you're last" Day 1 & 2 plans (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27251304&postcount=118)
Day 3 & 4 plans (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27251690&postcount=119)
To Do List (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27252623&postcount=121)
Day 5 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27287295&postcount=130)
Days 6 & 7 plans (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27288367&postcount=134)
Unplans Days 8-13 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27328157&postcount=148)
Happy CM Moment and General Update (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27475996&postcount=229)
Costumes has arrived!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27754780&postcount=355)
Final ADR's (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=27837029&postcount=460)

Trip Report in following link!

My Magical Quest for the Cupcake! 13 days of Craziness! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1989934)

[XTinabell]

:woohoo: :lmao: LOVING IT Shawna! You guys are too cute!!

[AZMickeyfans]

:woohoo: :lmao: LOVING IT Shawna! You guys are too cute!!

:hug: Aww Christina, thanks for being the first to post! It helps you live in Scotland while the entire continent of North America is still asleep! :lmao:

I'll be scanning in pre-digital camera pictures this morning of our past Disney trips to post today.

[Mkgaapril]

do you loan him out???? I would like a theme in my back yard....

[sameyeyam]

Can he do Splash Mt. in my yard? I live on a hill and have plenty of water!! Let's see I can divert the creek, fall a couple of trees for real log boats. Yeah that would work!

Great pre TR, looking forward to reading more Shawna.:thumbsup2

I don't suppose you can get Grandma and NoSamantha to write a "stay home report", that should be interesting as well.:rotfl2: :lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

do you loan him out???? I would like a theme in my back yard....

Of course. I'll send him the next time he gets annoying so I cannot schedule a consultation he will just show up on your door with a suitcase and shovel in hand. :lmao:

Notice the Florida grass. I know it doesnt just grow in FL but that is what we call it. That does not normally grow here in the desert. Only a handful of houses had it when we planted it and the ummm for lack of a better word grass nursery we got it from said they would not guarantee it. It does quite nicely. Everyone touches it though like its fake.:lmao:

Can he do Splash Mt. in my yard? I live on a hill and have plenty of water!! Let's see I can divert the creek, fall a couple of trees for real log boats. Yeah that would work!

Great pre TR, looking forward to reading more Shawna.:thumbsup2

I don't suppose you can get Grandma and NoSamantha to write a "stay home report", that should be interesting as well.:rotfl2: :lmao:

I'll get him working on the blue prints!

A Grandma and NoSamantha stay at home report would get me banned from the DIS for sure. Maybe even from the internet :scared1: There are some things I should not know. I picture Granda taking NoSamantha to the wine bars. :sad2: :rotfl2:

Thanks for joining in ladies. Wish these old pictures were digital. Scanning stinks!

[AZMickeyfans]

I've been to WDW 2 times as a child and DLR multiple times. Jeff had never been before 1993. He had never left the state of Kansas actually. Well, maybe Missouri. :rolleyes1

So lets go back to where this family began. Way back.

On the redeye flight to Orlando in August 1993 I was dreaming. Dreaming of working for WDW. I had been coached on tips and tricks from my fellow Disney Store Cast Members on what it would be like. I was scared and excited at the same time. I had never been away from home and I was going FAR away. Thank goodness it was Disney.

Being the glass is half full person that I am I tried to sink the fear deep down inside and concentrate on the dreams. I mean Dreams do come true at WDW right? I was dreaming small. Like, I cant wait to ride BTMRR everyday kind of dreams. And YEAH popcorn:: for lunch if I want! :lmao: I was dreaming of all of the cute pictures I would have to send home and how the World would look during the holidays.

I was NOT dreaming of meeting a husband! :scared1: That's usually when it happens isnt it?

When Jeff and I first meet my first impression was he was a conceeded jerk. He was rude. Later I find out he is just shy and I judged him harshly.

One day a week later after our first meeting I bumped into him at the pool with my girlfriends. Jeff is VERY TAN. I am PALE WHITE. I capitalize this because its very important. We had a blast together. I had sunblocked before leaving my apt like any good girl should but I had not intended on being so entertained by a good looking guy at the pool and staying 10 hours. :scared1:

That day was significant for me. From then on Jeff and I were best friends. It was also the one and only time I got sun poisoning. :rolleyes1 I was at urgent care the next day throwing up. Not pretty. He brought me a Mickey helium balloon from the Magic Kingdom that remarkably lasted for months. :mickeyjum We never dated during our college program but our wonderful friendship turned to a wonderful marriage 4 years later. I also went on 2 other alumni college programs and Jeff and I moved to Orlando to work there for good after we got married. In 2000 we decided we had enough humidity and came back to Phoenix and we have not been back since.

Here are some pictures from our college program.

Jeff and I on the what were called the water sprites back then

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0001-4.jpg

Yes we did go into the water! :scared:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0003-1.jpg

I have to share this, on the back of this picture he had apparently sent me after we got home he wrote:

Shawna,

Thanks for all the great memories even though you almost killed me (HA HA). I'm really glad I got to know you. Now I know I'm not the only one with good luck Take care and hope you fulfill all your dreams in life.

Your friend,
Jeff

:rotfl2:
For the record me almost killing him meant I flipped us on a wave runner in the ocean and he thought we were going to die. :lmao: I have no clue what the good luck comment meant!

So you see we really were just friends! I threw it at him on the couch!



Here we are in our costumes on stage

I worked at EPCOT

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0005.jpg

Jeff worked at Captain Cooks in the Polynesian

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0007.jpg

Mickey came to a pool party at the apartments. That was a blast!

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0004.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0030.jpg

Aww look 10,000 leagues under the Sea

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0033.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0008.jpg

Jeff in the Mexican pavillion

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0009.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0010.jpg

I remember loving this Aladdin breakfast. I wonder why.....:rolleyes1 :rotfl2:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0029.jpg

Stayin' at the Poly, Jeff wanted to put me in here

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0006.jpg

Port Orleans Riverside

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0002-4.jpg

So you see we've had some fun memories there, its where we met and we cant wait to go back and share it all with the kids.

Our Children's first Disneyland visit up next.

[AZMickeyfans]

I forgot to put this picture in. I really wanted these. I love Bambi, its my favorite Disney movie. I looked at them every day. I look at that picture now thinking Thank God I never had the money to buy them because where on earth would I have put them? :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

Still cute though.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0031.jpg

[AZMickeyfans]

So fastforward to 2003 and we have a 3 year old and an 8 month old baby. We decide to take them to DL. Morgan needs to see DL. Jeff and I debating taking her every year but something always came up. Real life stuff like work, money, family issues etc. Finally, we get our chance to go. This was a secret. I pulled out the old sing along videos that had the songs shot in the parks in them. I pulled out the vacation planning video and let her watch that. I wanted her to have an idea of what Disneyland was when we got there. Otherwise I could see her being like "umm, what is so big about this place" outside the gates. :lmao:

So it was a flood of the Fab 5 at our house. I wasn't even sure she had been exposed to Donald Duck or Pluto. She knew the princesses. She had those in her heart. We had trained her without her knowledge. We had educated her and now we were ready.

Standing outside the A in the California sign at Disney's California Adventure.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0024.jpg

First time on teacups

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0027.jpg

The teacups and I do not get along much as I get older. I think I am starting to not like spinning rides. My dad was like this. I didnt want to be but I see its happening.

Morgan would have NOTHING to do with the characters. Jake had no clue so we snapped pictures with him. Jake has yet to take another picture with a character. I'm hoping this Oct trip will be different for him. He says bravely it will be but time will tell.

Jake with Mickey

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0028.jpg

Jake with Minnie

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0023.jpg

He was not too sure about Goofy however. I kept thinking about the "Goofy's HUGE, He could beat up dad" commercial:lmao:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0014.jpg

Since we started off with Talladega Nights quotes let me show you some race car drivers

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0020.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0022.jpg

More firsts

Mickey Bar!!! YUMMY!

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0019.jpg

We always take a picture in front of this door in Fantasyland across from the Teacups. We should have held Jake up in it but he's in every other one.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0017.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0018.jpg

Then across the prominade to DCA. We actually love this park

Daddy had his first ride on California Screamin'

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0026.jpg

The Redwood Creek Challenge Trail area

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0021.jpg

My kids love this place and this was his first little adventure on the ropes! Now we cant get them off. :lmao:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0025.jpg

So that was our first with the kids. We spent 5 days at Disneyland and took things slowly. It was so much fun. I even loved taking Jake back to the baby care center to have some time to rock him and hold him quietly. Morgan and Jeff had a blast hitting the rides and bonding. That trip was the best.

Morgan came away loving Disneyland as much as we do. We totally brainwashed her just like we had planned. Jake was going to be easy. 3 against 1. He didnt stand a chance.

Up next: Disneyland over the past couple years as our Disney background continues.

[Philadisney]

My talents are interpretive dancing mostly to the ER theme song in my living room. Come to think of it that’s the best it gets for me. Broadway will not be calling anytime soon. I think I sing like Sarah McLachlin but only to “Arms of an Angel”. I also think I sound like Leona Lewis to “Keep Bleeding Love”. You should begin to see I’m delusional as well.



He also just got his yellow belt in karate. He is now the perfect height to hit his father in the family jewels when he practices his new moves. Thankfully we are done having kids.



Jeff has a love/hate relationship with her because he feels she is old enough to stop rummaging though the garbage. But like any good senior citizen, she is throwing the rules out the window as she gets older (much like Grandma). :headache: Its like, I'm so old I'm willing to risk everything for that empty can of beef ravioli waiting for me to get it stuck on my nose.


A Grandma and NoSamantha stay at home report would get me banned from the DIS for sure. Maybe even from the internet :scared1: There are some things I should not know. I picture Granda taking NoSamantha to the wine bars. :sad2: :rotfl2:


Oh my you are so funny! (And I'm not just saying that because I am afraid you will sock me in the arm!) I love all the pictures from your time on the College Program too. Where in WDW did you & your husband work when you moved back to Orlando?
I can't wait to read more!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Hi Shawna! Great start to your report. I love all your old pictures and it is so sweet how you and DH met on the college program. :lovestruc

[sameyeyam]

Keep going Shawna, you don't need to sleep. Just stay up all night and work on the next installment!:thumbsup2

[staley7580]

OMG.... I am so loving it!!!!:lovestruc

[jwwi]

What cute children, what fun to introduce them to Disney at DL. I am sure that they will love WDW too!

The pictures from the CP and your stories about meeting your DH are so sweet.

[SwansLoveDisney]

I'm in!

Your kids are ADORABLE!

It's so much fun to see all your old pics.

[XTinabell]

Of course. I'll send him the next time he gets annoying so I cannot schedule a consultation he will just show up on your door with a suitcase and shovel in hand. :lmao:

Notice the Florida grass. I know it doesnt just grow in FL but that is what we call it. That does not normally grow here in the desert. Only a handful of houses had it when we planted it and the ummm for lack of a better word grass nursery we got it from said they would not guarantee it. It does quite nicely. Everyone touches it though like its fake.:lmao:

I actually remember a picture you showed once of the front of your house and it was surrounded by all these homes with desert lawns and there was yours all bright and green.:lmao: He does a great job, our lawns aren't even that green here and it rains every day.
:hug: Aww Christina, thanks for being the first to post! It helps you live in Scotland while the entire continent of North America is still asleep! :lmao:

I'll be scanning in pre-digital camera pictures this morning of our past Disney trips to post today.

Oh come now, you know I got up in the middle of night just to be the first one to post on your PTR.

On another note, you look exactly the same as you did when you were working at WDW. And I love Jeff's side parted hair. :thumbsup2

[tinkermell]

Yay! :yay:

A pre-trippie from Shawna!!

I love all of your pictures, and all of the history that goes with it. You guys are such a cute family!!

I am clueless about the movie quotes though.:rolleyes1

:rotfl:

Can't wait to hear and see more!popcorn::

[AZMickeyfans]

:welcome: Everyone! Thanks for joining in!

Oh my you are so funny! (And I'm not just saying that because I am afraid you will sock me in the arm!) I love all the pictures from your time on the College Program too. Where in WDW did you & your husband work when you moved back to Orlando?
I can't wait to read more!

There is a good chance someone might get socked in the arm on this pre-tr but hopefully it will be Jeff.:lmao:

When we moved back to Orlando we worked in CRO (reservations). I have to tell you that was my worst job experience at Disney. Jeff wanted to get back to Mannequins Dance Palace. :lmao: He worked there after the Poly. I wanted to get back into the parks. We moved without a job. Totally budget move too. It was hysterical. We checked NoSamantha into her cousin Pluto's dog house (kennel on property) and headed to casting looking for a fabulous job. They interviewed us at the same time which basically said "welcome back, this job pays the most for what we are hiring right now". Signed a letter so we could go get an apartment and we were off.

Every day I was there I was begging to be let out. It was like that song by John Fogerty "Put Me in Coach" I always felt like I was on the sidelines begging to get back into the parks. We somehow made it fun though.
Hi Shawna! Great start to your report. I love all your old pictures and it is so sweet how you and DH met on the college program. :lovestruc

Thanks! Everyone thinks he picked me up in the Splash Mountain line when I tell them we met at WDW. No kidding thats always the next response. I say "We met at WDW" "Oh cool, did he pick you up in the Splash Mountain line?" Its always SM. Why doesnt anyone ever get picked up on ToT? Dh thinks it must have something to do with them thinking he wanted to see me in a wet t-shirt!
Keep going Shawna, you don't need to sleep. Just stay up all night and work on the next installment!:thumbsup2

Then I would really be delusional!:scared1:

OMG.... I am so loving it!!!!:lovestruc

Thanks girl! Being pregnant with twins you are not obligated to have happy upbeat posts. I understand the hormones! :scared1: :lmao:

What cute children, what fun to introduce them to Disney at DL. I am sure that they will love WDW too!

The pictures from the CP and your stories about meeting your DH are so sweet.

:wave: Hey! I'm not sure they have any idea how large WDW is. We keep trying to explain this to them but they really have no clue. It will be so much fun to watch them discover it for the first time. I cannot wait!

Thank you! I honestly had such a crush on him but had to wait a year for him to feel the same way. Luckily it happened that way. I feel if we would have dated during the CP we would not have been married now. God answers our prayers in different ways sometimes. :thumbsup2

I'm in!

Your kids are ADORABLE!

It's so much fun to see all your old pics.

Thanks! I think so too. They are sweetie pies most of the time. The old pics are fun to look through. I might have to go dig some more out. I just hate scanning them in. I have a bunch of DL ones that do not need scanning though. :goodvibes

Thanks for stopping by!

[AZMickeyfans]

I actually remember a picture you showed once of the front of your house and it was surrounded by all these homes with desert lawns and there was yours all bright and green.:lmao: He does a great job, our lawns aren't even that green here and it rains every day.


Oh come now, you know I got up in the middle of night just to be the first one to post on your PTR.

On another note, you look exactly the same as you did when you were working at WDW. And I love Jeff's side parted hair. :thumbsup2

Thanks I'll tell him you said that! Watch his chest puff up and his feathers spread out like a peacock! And I think he looks better with his hair a little longer and parted too. He insists on having it buzzed. The pic in the green shirt was taken last week and I just dont like his hair like that. Maybe if we all gang up on him he will start growing it out to longer than 1/8 of an inch!!

I totally pictured you setting your alarm for 2:54am just to post! Thanks for the dedication! Although I know it was really probably after your tanning apt in the afternoon!:lmao:
Yay! :yay:

A pre-trippie from Shawna!!

I love all of your pictures, and all of the history that goes with it. You guys are such a cute family!!

I am clueless about the movie quotes though.:rolleyes1

:rotfl:

Can't wait to hear and see more!popcorn::

:welcome: Glad you are checking in!

Clueless about Talladega Nights with Will Ferrell? :scared1: The shame of it all!

[OneTreeHillAddict]

Told ya I was coming. I likie so far! You guys are all so cute too! I love the pics! I wanna see more pics of your yard! I have a Polynesian yard too. Unfortunately the grass here grows...too fast! :rolleyes: Sometimes I wish we had the AZ "grass".

So what did you do at Epcot? Tell us some funny stories. I bet it's a blast working in the parks. You probably saw some hilarious stuff go on. Did you go through a training session on how to treat the um...how do I put this nicely....crazy insane Disney "fans". :rotfl2:

My DH is sick of my "planning" too. He's ready to go go go. He likes it even better than me but he hates the planning part of it. The man would live right there in the castle if he were allowed. :lmao: Is this going to be the kids first time to WDW? What's your plans???

[AZMickeyfans]

Told ya I was coming. I likie so far! You guys are all so cute too! I love the pics! I wanna see more pics of your yard! I have a Polynesian yard too. Unfortunately the grass here grows...too fast! :rolleyes: Sometimes I wish we had the AZ "grass".

So what did you do at Epcot? Tell us some funny stories. I bet it's a blast working in the parks. You probably saw some hilarious stuff go on. Did you go through a training session on how to treat the um...how do I put this nicely....crazy insane Disney "fans". :rotfl2:

My DH is sick of my "planning" too. He's ready to go go go. He likes it even better than me but he hates the planning part of it. The man would live right there in the castle if he were allowed. :lmao: Is this going to be the kids first time to WDW? What's your plans???


Yeah, you are here! Thanks!

Ok some yard pictures.


http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/DSC00286.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/DSC00879.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/DSC00877.jpg

His grapes he is working on right now.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/DSC00867.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/DSC00287.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1000444.jpg

We dont have that large of a lot but we have about 50 trees on it. Many are small citrus tress right now. Sometimes it feels like the space is closing in on me but most of the time it feels like our own little oasis in the desert. Florida without the humidity! :lmao:

Yes, I have a ton of stories. I'll have to knock my brain and find some good ones. I was in a merchandise shop in EPCOT my first time down. IT was so fun.

The kids are so excited. Yes it will be their first visit. We are staying at POP. It just looks like so much fun.

Plans? Ack! I'll have to work through that as this thing gets going!!:lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

I’ll come back to present day (sort of) for a minute and give an overview of how our upcoming trip came to be.:cool1:

I remember thinking how awesome it would be to take the kids to WDW. Sure we go to DL, a lot. They know that place like they know all the hiding places for pretzels in our couch. :laughing: We loved going to DL so Jeff about had a heart attack when I suggested we not renew our passes as we were exiting one year. I recall the conversation something like this:

Jeff: Next trip we need to renew these bad boys don’t we and grab one for Jake. (he would be turning 3)
Me: Well…..
Jeff: What? What is wrong?
Me: What if we don’t renew them and we save that money and we take the kids to WDW instead this year for a week?
Jeff: Uh, No. I like coming over whenever I want to and to give up a whole year just to have a weeks vacation seems like a dumb thing to do.

:headache:

I have to add here that when we first started going to DL he did not like it as much as WDW. He kept saying how small it was and how much he missed the openness of the Florida’s version. After a several years of going he flip flopped and now DL is his favorite park. That might change again in Oct. Thank goodness he is not running for election. You cannot count on him to stand by a theme park! :sad2:
Back to conversation

Me: Wouldn’t it be neat to go back there and show the kids where we met. They don’t believe we worked at a Disney park and this would be fun to show them where. Plus we could see our old friends again.
Jeff: I don’t know, I still don’t like the idea of giving all of this up for just a week of vacation. What would we do the rest of the year?
Me: :rotfl2: Maybe act like a normal family for once and not spend all of our extra time driving to California.
Jeff: I’ll have to think this over:headache:

Remember I said I’m spontaneous? Jeff is the opposite of spontaneous. He hates surprises and has to let things settle inside of him for awhile and “think them over” before he can accept them. Usually I ignore this and go ahead with plans and he adapts reluctantly but this was pretty big so I waited til he gave me the ok.

4 weeks later we took the last DL vacation on those AP’s. We did not renew. Jeff held out til the last minute to make that decision. I talked about it the whole time. “Remember the Poly, how you loved it?” “Remember the Festival of the Lion King at AK?” “We haven’t been on Rock n Roller Coaster yet, wouldn’t that be cool?” It was constant. He gave into my annoyance.


Pay attention ladies. :stir: These are my tactic skills with him. Let him sit over an idea and then bombard him with so much irritating excitement when its decision time he gets all flustered and says yes just to get me to stop. It works every time.:angel:

While the kids were in the back of the Caravan on the way home our trip was born with my constant talking.:hyper2: Dec 2007 was our 10 year anniversary. He cannot get off work in between Thanksgiving and New Years so we could not go for that but we wanted this to be our celebration trip. We decided fall break in Oct 2007. :confused:

Did you notice that? This is not one of those times where I am delusional. I said 2007. We were in planning stages in winter of 2007 and I was really excited. Our trip was only 8 months away. Things were great. Life happened and as usual it was good to us. In June with only 4 months left to go on our awesomely planned out vacation Jeff got a promotion to open a new restaurant. He was told he could not take vacation for at least 6 months after it opened. That 6 months turned into a year after he got into the store. :scared1: So here we are. Oct 2008. Don’t worry, we didn’t have to wait that long. Morgan has danced at Disneyland a couple times in the past year and a half and we snuck in another day trip all without annual passes so we still somehow managed to get our Disney fixes.

Here are some pictures of her dancing. The first one was with her old studio and we didnt like it at all but the 2nd one was great!:thumbsup2

Cat in the Hat dance. It was cute but she called it a baby dance.:lmao:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1000197.jpg


http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1000821.jpg

I tried to crop her fellow dancemates out of the pics that is why they are strange lookin':lmao:


After much deliberation between going just before Thanksgiving for Christmas decorations:santa: and during fall break for Halloween decorations:hmghost: , school won. We decided to take the longer vacation and go during fall break. :hmghost: Twelve nights and the kids only miss 2 half days of school before their fall break starts and 1 full day after Columbus day when we come back. Can’t beat that! :yay:

Up next: The Plan

[kathleen27]

Great start on your pre trip!
I laughed several times, so I guess I appreciate your sense of humor!:laughing:

It will be so exciting to take the kids for the first time!!!

Your yard looks amazing!!! And your lawn looks so green!!!:lmao:
Not what I would picture for the desert, but looks great!

Love all the old pictures!!!
I still remember the first time I rode 10,000 Leagues under the Sea!

We will just miss you by two days. :(

[mrsksomeday]

I love this PTR!! How wonderful you met your Prince Charming working at Disney. That is fantastic. Your writing style is great :thumbsup2, I love your sense of humor :rotfl:. I can't wait to read more popcorn::.

[Alysa]

I LOVE the 80's photos! Your trip report is marvelous. I may have to go rent Talladega Nights now. I am sad to say I have never seen it. And your garden is gorgeous! Can't wait to hear more. Seems like you guys really deserve a holiday!

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Hi there!
Popped over from my PTR! Just subbing now, have just skimmed, but will go back and read through.
Love yours! :)
Its like destiny - you met at WDW - you HAVE to love it! :thumbsup2 All the photos are great, and your kids are so cute!
I'm sure you'll all have a great time at WDW - what's not to love!

Will be back!

Diane x

[OneTreeHillAddict]

You are so right. That yard does not look like it's in Arizona. Jessica has PLASTIC flowers out front in her pots! :rotfl2: I LOVE it!!! It looks good!!! I tried the citrus trees....they didn't like me much. The grapes and blueberries do good but that's it. My weakness is PALM TREES! I have over 200 Palms in my yard. People think I'm insane. Sad part is....I'd happily add more! :laughing:

Your DD's costumes are so freakin' adorable! Mine wants to go back into dance this year. She took a year off. The last show they did the first half was all Disney. It was so cute.

So how excited are the kids about going to WDW!?

[AZMickeyfans]

Great start on your pre trip!
I laughed several times, so I guess I appreciate your sense of humor!:laughing:

It will be so exciting to take the kids for the first time!!!

Your yard looks amazing!!! And your lawn looks so green!!!:lmao:
Not what I would picture for the desert, but looks great!

Love all the old pictures!!!
I still remember the first time I rode 10,000 Leagues under the Sea!

We will just miss you by two days. :(

Hey! Thanks for appreciating the sense of humor. Jeff was not feeling well today so he didn't appreciate it at all. :lmao:

They really did the Nemo Subs nice at DL. I wonder if they regret paving over that area at WDW now that DL's is such a huge hit.

I know when I saw your time frame in your PTR that was sad. :sad1: I was hoping to meet you and Jacob. Sounds like you two will have a fun trip!

I love this PTR!! How wonderful you met your Prince Charming working at Disney. That is fantastic. Your writing style is great :thumbsup2, I love your sense of humor :rotfl:. I can't wait to read more popcorn::.

:welcome:

He really is my Prince Charming. I'm so happy to have met someone who loves Disney as much as I do. Just today he snuck some Mickey Head paint samples from Home Depot so I can make a count down calendar. Now that is LOVE. :thumbsup2

I LOVE the 80's photos! Your trip report is marvelous. I may have to go rent Talladega Nights now. I am sad to say I have never seen it. And your garden is gorgeous! Can't wait to hear more. Seems like you guys really deserve a holiday!

:wave: Thank you!

You really must see Talladega Nights if you like Will Farrell at all. Its one of his best movies. Mindless humor always gets me! Some of the scenes are so ridiculous you wonder if a 2 year old wrote them and that is what makes it so funny.

I can't wait for our trip!

Hi there!
Popped over from my PTR! Just subbing now, have just skimmed, but will go back and read through.
Love yours! :)
Its like destiny - you met at WDW - you HAVE to love it! :thumbsup2 All the photos are great, and your kids are so cute!
I'm sure you'll all have a great time at WDW - what's not to love!

Will be back!

Diane x

Yeah, I just jumped on your pre trippie too! Nice to meet you! Thanks for coming on over! I'll catch up over there tonight when everyone is asleep! They are about to walk in the door with Jeff from school any minute. Then the chaos breaks out! :dance3: :rotfl2:

You are so right. That yard does not look like it's in Arizona. Jessica has PLASTIC flowers out front in her pots! :rotfl2: I LOVE it!!! It looks good!!! I tried the citrus trees....they didn't like me much. The grapes and blueberries do good but that's it. My weakness is PALM TREES! I have over 200 Palms in my yard. People think I'm insane. Sad part is....I'd happily add more! :laughing:

Your DD's costumes are so freakin' adorable! Mine wants to go back into dance this year. She took a year off. The last show they did the first half was all Disney. It was so cute.

So how excited are the kids about going to WDW!?

OMG! Did you really just say 200 palm trees. Now THAT deserves a picture. Post girl! I know you have one! I wont show Jeff though because he will immediately leave me for you whether you want him or not. He will be like the pet sleeping underneath the palm tree canopy in the back yard that you cannot get rid of. :lmao: What kind are they? I'll ask Jeff what all we have. I think we have 5 different kinds.

200 WOW. :woohoo:

Isnt dance so cute. We switched to a competition studio midseason this year and the thing that got me to lose the costume money at the old place and move instead of wait til the end of the year was they did an all Disney recital. That orange/peach costume above was a lyrical song to "you'll be in my heart" She had a tap number to Jonas Bros "Wanna Be Like You" Ballet to "April Showers" Another Ballet to " A New Deal" from Ratatouille, Musical Theater to "Be Our Guest", Jazz to "Fabulous" and a production number from Newsies "kings of New York" How could I not switch!!!

If you have any pics of your daughter dancing you should post. I love seeing dance pictures.

[OneTreeHillAddict]

Yep over 200! :lmao: I'll have to take some pics and show ya! We have a couple of Queens like I saw in your pic. We have Pindos (Palm Jelly's). Chinese Fan Palms. I have a ton of Washingtonia's (Mexican Fan Palms) that's the ones I bought over 200 of last year. I sold enough to pay for all of my palms but I kept most of them! We have date palms, sagos...I have about 10-12 different kinds. I'm addicted to 'em....but hey, it's better than being a crackhead. :rotfl2: I have one pic I took today. I'll try and get it on later. I am uploading all of today's junk to My Space right now. I realized I had not taken new pics in like 20 years so I took some this afternoon.

[hlrababy]

Hey Shawna!! I made it over!!!!! I love, love, love wedding crashers and talladega nights! So, I am looking forward to the quotes!!:lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

Yep over 200! :lmao: I'll have to take some pics and show ya! We have a couple of Queens like I saw in your pic. We have Pindos (Palm Jelly's). Chinese Fan Palms. I have a ton of Washingtonia's (Mexican Fan Palms) that's the ones I bought over 200 of last year. I sold enough to pay for all of my palms but I kept most of them! We have date palms, sagos...I have about 10-12 different kinds. I'm addicted to 'em....but hey, it's better than being a crackhead. :rotfl2: I have one pic I took today. I'll try and get it on later. I am uploading all of today's junk to My Space right now. I realized I had not taken new pics in like 20 years so I took some this afternoon.

Holy Cow. Those pics are MUST SEE status! How awesome. I had to ask Jeff what kind we had. I only knew 3 varieties.

He has one he doesnt know the name of and it cost him over $200. I say if you spend that much on a tree you should know what kind it is! He forgot! :lmao:

So here is his list for me to give to you. I think he wants to meet in person with you and discuss notes. :lmao: I'm tellin' you. Watch out the man loves his trees. Areca Palm, Lady, Sago, Pineapple, Queen, Mexican Fan, Pygmy Date and Mediterranean. He really wants the Bizmark and Sable. I feel like I'm talking about cars!

:rotfl2:

There are a lot of things better than being a crackhead so you do make a valid point here.

Hey Shawna!! I made it over!!!!! I love, love, love wedding crashers and talladega nights! So, I am looking forward to the quotes!!:lmao:

Hey Heather! :welcome: I'm so excited I have a Talladega Nights and Wedding Crashers Fan. You should see the looks on the parents faces when Jake gives a fist bump with Jeff at school drop off and they both shout Shake and Bake! :lmao: We just had to teach the kids that! I'll use a lot of quotes as soon as I get my plans going. :thumbsup2

[mrsksomeday]

Hey Heather! :welcome: I'm so excited I have a Talladega Nights and Wedding Crashers Fan. You should see the looks on the parents faces when Jake gives a fist bump with Jeff at school drop off and they both shout Shake and Bake! :lmao: We just had to teach the kids that! I'll use a lot of quotes as soon as I get my plans going. :thumbsup2

I love Talladega Nights and Wedding Crashers too!! I was seriously laughing out loud reading about the fist bump. My b/f was looking at me like I was nuts :lmao:.

[AZMickeyfans]

“Dear Lord Baby Jesus, I want to thank you for this wonderful meal, my two beautiful son's, Walker and Texas Ranger, and my Red-Hot Smokin' Wife, Carley” Ricky Bobby

Now that I’ve introduced ourselves I’ll lay out what is goin’ down in October

Time allowed in Neverland: October 2-14. 12 Nights, 13 days baby. :cool1: Each time I called Disney it got longer. :rolleyes1 Wonder how that happened. Picture me with the Austin Powers evil pinky finger in my mouth look. Again I’m an :angel:

Racecar: I don’t think so! We are flyin’ on a jet plane. I moved back and forth so many times to FL I will NEVER drive there again. I LOATHE Texas because of those moves. Sorry to any Texans, I really have heard it is lovely, just not I-10. Stopping in El Paso for one night and then so tired we should have stopped in Beaumont the next night but I refused to stop in Texas 2 nights in a row. :furious: I would have felt I made no progress. We stopped about a mile outside of Texas but at least I felt better! Southwest Airlines here we come. The kids are about as excited about this as they are the whole trip. They don’t remember the last time they flew. We flock to California multiple times a year like every good Arizonan should.

“Hey. I lost my license. That's why I'm on the bus... I'm delivering pizzas.” Ricky Bobby

BUS: Magical Express, we will have no other transportation on property. I survived 2 CP’s without a car, hopefully I can do 13 days!

The Pad: POP Century, We’ve never stayed here. My dreams of Wilderness Lodge were dashed by my checkbook. Actually we chose for a longer 12 night stay so we ditched the High dollar digs and are headed to funky town. :hippie: It looks like so much fun. My kids actually loved the pictures here as opposed to any other hotel and that is what this trip is about isn’t it? I’m tellin’ you though if the pirate rooms were done at the CBR we would rock that place! pirate: Jeff saw the pictures and suggested we change the master exactly into that room. When I said “would we have 2 beds then” he said “YEAH, I want to be my own captain of my own ship. Hello!” Oh boy. :faint:

Keys to the World: 10 day Magic your way park hopper with water parks and more option. I also had to get an extra 1 day base ticket to get a great deal on the resort so technically we have 11 days. I can't wait to eat those days up!

VIP Parties we are invited to: :snooty: Oct 7 MNSSHP! Ok so I know half the DIS is going on that night and we were not invited, we purchased our tickets but a girl can dream can’t she? I am so hoping to see all of my new DIS friends there that night! Its going to be so much fun. I’ve never been to one of the parties and I have such high expectations for this one. I LOVE me some Halloween! :woohoo:

Yachts I have procured for the children: :snooty: Again, delusional, I did book the kids the Pirate Cruise from the Grand Floridian. pirate: This looks so cute. Jeff was upset when he found out he couldn’t go. I kid you not. He heard Pirate cruise and he wanted to go. I said it was just for kids and he got all pouty. I might have to bury some treasure in the sand for him to look for while they are out. We had tossed around the idea of renting the Sea Racers and following their boat around the Seven Seas Lagoon. Can you imagine how embarrassing that would be for them? :rotfl2: I haven’t ruled it out yet.

“Lets go and get thrown out of an Applebees” Ricky Bobby

ADR’s: Here is where most people stop and stare at us with mouths open, chin hitting the pavement. We really don’t have much planned. CRT breakfast, Chef Mickey’s dinner, WCC dinner and Sci-Fi lunch. That’s it. See Jake is not a great eater. He literally survives on a bite of food a day. After school today I checked his lunch and I asked him what he had eaten because it seemed as if nothing was touched. He said 5 bites of macaroni and cheese. I think it was more like 5 macaronis total. So when we go to sit down restaurants he can behave and sit but its so boring to him. We just decided we would rather do a few fun ones for both. One special one for Morgan and then just eat CS the rest of the time or snack when we are hungry.

I did not do the dining plan because 12 TS meals seems like torture to our family. :scared1: Maybe when he is a little older and has more of an appetite. I was thinking of adding another character meal in there because I know he might enjoy that but I don’t know which one. I heard Tusker House was really good but aren’t the characters the same as Chef Mickey’s? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. We can work through this later too. Discuss.:teacher:

Royal Treatment: We’ve got BBB booked just before MNSSHP starts with both the Cool Dude for Jake and the Crown Package for Morgan This is a surprise.

Must do adventures: Sea Racers (is that what they are called these days?) Parasailing, I’ve always wanted to try this but never have had the chance. I’m so doing it. :yay: Morgan wants to do it with me too. I love that girl! There is more but I cannot think of them at the moment. Throw some fun different stuff on Disney property out there.

Those are the rough plans. I’ll break it down day by day soon. I have lots of ideas that need some input too! I’m countin’ on your help!

Thanks to everyone for reading along! :worship:

[AZMickeyfans]

I love Talladega Nights and Wedding Crashers too!! I was seriously laughing out loud reading about the fist bump. My b/f was looking at me like I was nuts :lmao:.

Yeah! Aren't those movies hysterical? Jeff and I could have whole conversations from those one liners alone. :lmao:

Zoolander is another classic love of mine.

[jwhtewolfd]

subscribed and ready for more. Love all your pics and EASY TO READ FONT!

[Philadisney]

I LOATHE Texas because of those moves. Sorry to any Texans, I really have heard it is lovely, just not I-10. Stopping in El Paso for one night and then so tired we should have stopped in Beaumont the next night but I refused to stop in Texas 2 nights in a row. :furious: I would have felt I made no progress. We
topped about a mile outside of Texas but at least I felt better!


That's totally crazy! It boggles my mind how big Texas is. I'm from Connecticut, where you drive 2 hours in any direction and you're in another state (or the ocean...depending on what direction you went in!)


BUS: Magical Express, we will have no other transportation on property. I survived 2 CP’s without a car, hopefully I can do 13 days!


I didn't have a car when I was a CP either! I just made sure to make friends with people who did :laughing: How else would I have gotten to Cici's Pizza? I swear if I ever rent a car at WDW, it will be so I can drive off property to Cici's. I still have dreams about their pasta sauce.



I was thinking of adding another character meal in there because I know he might enjoy that but I don’t know which one. I heard Tusker House was really good but aren’t the characters the same as Chef Mickey’s? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. We can work through this later too. Discuss.:teacher:


What about Crystal Palace? I'm not big into character meals myself but everyone seems to love that place. Different characters than Chef Mickey's too.

Royal Treatment: We’ve got BBB booked just before MNSSHP starts with both the Cool Dude for Jake and the Crown Package for Morgan This is a surprise.


OK I have to ask....WHAT is the Cool Dude?? Is there an age limit? I would love to make my boyfriend do this :laughing:

Must do adventures: Sea Racers (is that what they are called these days?) Parasailing, I’ve always wanted to try this but never have had the chance. I’m so doing it. :yay: Morgan wants to do it with me too. I love that girl! There is more but I cannot think of them at the moment. Throw some fun different stuff on Disney property out there.


My cousin and I went parasailing on our Disney cruise! It was awesome. Definitely do it! I didn't even know you could do this at WDW.

[Spartangirl]

Subbing in! This sounds like a fun TR! :thumbsup2

I love that you met your husband in the WDW College Program! :goodvibes

The old pics are great and your kids are adorable! Can't wait for more!

[Mkgaapril]

ok S. keep the story and pic's going...I am taking a small break from homework...loving it...

[Alex2kMommy]

Whew! I finally made it to the end!

This is a pre-trip report? Holy cannoli, these WDW TRs are loooooong! :rotfl2:

Seeing as how I dread flying with DS4 (especially since the "Mayday! Mayday! We're going down!" incident of Feb. 2008), I think it will be at least a few more years before my family braves a 6-hour flight... or is it even longer to Orlando? :scared:

I appreciate your willingness to "take one for the team" so that my family can live vicariously through yours. Thanks, Shawna. :angel: :hug:

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Yachts I have procured for the children: Again, delusional, I did book the kids the Pirate Cruise from the Grand Floridian. This looks so cute. Jeff was upset when he found out he couldn’t go. I kid you not. He heard Pirate cruise and he wanted to go. I said it was just for kids and he got all pouty. I might have to bury some treasure in the sand for him to look for while they are out. We had tossed around the idea of renting the Sea Racers and following their boat around the Seven Seas Lagoon. Can you imagine how embarrassing that would be for them? I haven’t ruled it out yet.

Hey isn't that part of the joy of having children...that you get to embarrass them? :confused3 It's my main parenting game plan. :cool1:

I did not do the dining plan because 12 TS meals seems like torture to our family. Maybe when he is a little older and has more of an appetite. I was thinking of adding another character meal in there because I know he might enjoy that but I don’t know which one. I heard Tusker House was really good but aren’t the characters the same as Chef Mickey’s? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. We can work through this later too. Discuss.

The Cape May Cafe for breakfast is a good character meal - the tablecloths are paper so the kids can draw on them. When we went it was Goofy, Minnie, Chip'n'Dale. We also really like Garden Grill, it seemed a bit less hectic than other character meals - Mickey, Pluto and Chip'n'Dale when we were there. Don't know how often they rotate the characters.

Hope this helps.

Keep posting!

Di x

[Alysa]

See Jake is not a great eater. He literally survives on a bite of food a day.

My DS is like this too. I think he absorbs nutrients through the air.

PS. Thanks for the recommendation of the movie. We watched it last night and we laughed at a lot of parts. Will Ferrell is so funny isn't he? But my favourite was the out-takes. Funny funny!

[irky416]

I'm in! I loved the story about how you guys met! I also loved seeing all the old pictures.

Everything sounds great so far, I can't wait to read more!

[tinkermell]

Hey Shawna!!
Isn't there a Princess and Pirate Party that you, the kids and Jeff could go to? :rolleyes1 :laughing:

I was watching "On Demand" the other day on Comcast, and the making of this event was on the line-up. It looks like fun!!!pirate:

I'm thinking that I need to watch Talladega Nights and the Wedding Crashers, so I can catch some of your humor. :confused3

:rotfl:

[staley7580]

Keep it coming!! Before I stab you in the eyeball. ;) pirate:

[OneTreeHillAddict]

Okay...I took some pics for Jeff today. I'll put them in my TR since there's a ton of 'em. I don't want to add 40 pictures of Palm Trees to your trippie. People will think I'm goofy enough putting them on mine. :rotfl2:

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Yeah! Aren't those movies hysterical? Jeff and I could have whole conversations from those one liners alone.

Zoolander is another classic love of mine.

Our favourite Will Ferrell film has to be Anchorman - hysterical! DH saw it on the plane on our trip back from Orlando 2004. He was hysterical with laughter - the flight attendants were looking at him funny. I swear at one point they thought about sedating him...he was almost falling out his chair laughing so much!
He now has 2 copies of the film, has got a quote from it etched on his i-pod, and quotes from it routinely. Sad thing is I can quote him back as well! :thumbsup2
We all watched Elf at Christmas - funny funny funny!

[mrsksomeday]

We love Zoolander and Elf!!! "We elves try to stick to the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corns and syrup."

When Buddy thought that writer was an elf, I was cracking up, I still crack up every time I see it.

hope this doesn't get me thrown off the thread, but I have never seen Anchorman :scared1: , shocking I know. Wil Ferrell is just hilarious! It is so great reading this report!!

[AZMickeyfans]

subscribed and ready for more. Love all your pics and EASY TO READ FONT!

:welcome: Thanks for reading! I think I need glasses so I made it easy on myself as well! Glad you like it! More WDW pics will be coming as soon as I get them scanned in. Luckily the Disneyland ones are on the computer! Thank goodness for digital cameras

That's totally crazy! It boggles my mind how big Texas is. I'm from Connecticut, where you drive 2 hours in any direction and you're in another state (or the ocean...depending on what direction you went in!)


Oh I know! I have a good friend from Texas and I remember calling her and saying I was in her state and wanted to stop by. She said I was still a days drive from her house! :scared1: When I mentioned to her that I hated how large the state was she said "thats why we love it here, keeps the riffraff like you out!" :rotfl2: I thought that was a good comeback!


I didn't have a car when I was a CP either! I just made sure to make friends with people who did :laughing: How else would I have gotten to Cici's Pizza? I swear if I ever rent a car at WDW, it will be so I can drive off property to Cici's. I still have dreams about their pasta sauce.

Where was Cici's pizza? At the Crossroads Center where Goodings was? Shoot is it still called that? I think it was Uno's at the time I was there if it was the same place.




What about Crystal Palace? I'm not big into character meals myself but everyone seems to love that place. Different characters than Chef Mickey's too.

My kids do not like Pooh. :rotfl2: Ok that cracked me up. I'm such a nerd I'm seriously laughing at myself here. They dont like any of the Pooh characters. I mean they might stand in line to get the autographs but I asked if they wanted to eat with them and they both said NO! Otherwise it sounded fun!

OK I have to ask....WHAT is the Cool Dude?? Is there an age limit? I would love to make my boyfriend do this :laughing:

Onetreehill can probably answer better than I can as she is the resident expert! We've never been but i dont think there is an age limit as I've seen pictures of grown men and women doing it. I thought about doing it myself and might still see if there is an opening. With Cool Dude you get colored gel in your air and a colored mickey head with gel in the back. I think some of the styles are mohawks or mickey confetti in spiked up hair.

Here is a link to her thread. Its awesome! Props Girl! http://http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1893384 (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1893384)

My cousin and I went parasailing on our Disney cruise! It was awesome. Definitely do it! I didn't even know you could do this at WDW.

I cannot wait! I hope to get a good view of the castle. Has anyone done this at WDW before?

Subbing in! This sounds like a fun TR! :thumbsup2

I love that you met your husband in the WDW College Program! :goodvibes

The old pics are great and your kids are adorable! Can't wait for more!

:wave: Thanks and Welcome! I'll get more old pics up soon. Gotta dig them out.:lmao:

ok S. keep the story and pic's going...I am taking a small break from homework...loving it...

Hey woman! How is the studying going?

Whew! I finally made it to the end!

This is a pre-trip report? Holy cannoli, these WDW TRs are loooooong! :rotfl2:

Seeing as how I dread flying with DS4 (especially since the "Mayday! Mayday! We're going down!" incident of Feb. 2008), I think it will be at least a few more years before my family braves a 6-hour flight... or is it even longer to Orlando? :scared:

I appreciate your willingness to "take one for the team" so that my family can live vicariously through yours. Thanks, Shawna. :angel: :hug:

"take one for the team"? :lmao: Shoot, this is not a sacrifice this is a DREAM COME TRUE LADY! Seriously Alex, some of these awesome pre-trippies are like 200 pages long. Very fun to read. WDW is so much bigger than DL! :thumbsup2

Our flight there is 5 1/2 hours with a stop in Houston but no change of planes. The flight home is 4 1/2 hours home nonstop. I'm not worried.

[Philadisney]

Onetreehill can probably answer better than I can as she is the resident expert! We've never been but i dont think there is an age limit as I've seen pictures of grown men and women doing it. I thought about doing it myself and might still see if there is an opening. With Cool Dude you get colored gel in your air and a colored mickey head with gel in the back. I think some of the styles are mohawks or mickey confetti in spiked up hair.

Here is a link to her thread. Its awesome! Props Girl! http://http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1893384


Oh man this is awesome. It's only $7.50!?!? I'm totally going to call BBB after work and see if I can book this for DBF :laughing:

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Seeing as how I dread flying with DS4 (especially since the "Mayday! Mayday! We're going down!" incident of Feb. 2008), I think it will be at least a few more years before my family braves a 6-hour flight... or is it even longer to Orlando?

Ok, now I'm intriguied (?spelling?). Apologies if I've already missed that, but I need to know what the 'Mayday' incident is!!!! :surfweb:

[AZMickeyfans]

Hey isn't that part of the joy of having children...that you get to embarrass them? It's my main parenting game plan. :cool1:



The Cape May Cafe for breakfast is a good character meal - the tablecloths are paper so the kids can draw on them. When we went it was Goofy, Minnie, Chip'n'Dale. We also really like Garden Grill, it seemed a bit less hectic than other character meals - Mickey, Pluto and Chip'n'Dale when we were there. Don't know how often they rotate the characters.

Hope this helps.

Keep posting!

Di x

The Sea Racers are still a definite possibility during the cruise! I just think that would be hilarious! :rotfl2:

I'll have to look into Cape May Cafe that one sounds like fun and I know it was a favorite of many guests 15 years ago. Sounds like its still going strong. Thanks! :)

My DS is like this too. I think he absorbs nutrients through the air.

PS. Thanks for the recommendation of the movie. We watched it last night and we laughed at a lot of parts. Will Ferrell is so funny isn't he? But my favourite was the out-takes. Funny funny!

You could not have said that more perfect about absorbing nutrients through the air! I'll use that quote today if you don't mind! :goodvibes I'm glad I'm not the only one with a boy who has severe issues with food. I have a feeling once the teenage years hit they will eat more than the average to make up for it though! :rotfl2: :scared1:

Oh, I'm thrilled you watched and liked the movie. Watch out for the invisible fire! It will get you when you least expect it. :lmao:

I'm in! I loved the story about how you guys met! I also loved seeing all the old pictures.

Everything sounds great so far, I can't wait to read more!

:welcome: thanks for coming over! It really was a magical meeting. My own fairy tale. He has been a prince and an ogre over the years but I wouldn't trade him in for anything!

Hey Shawna!!
Isn't there a Princess and Pirate Party that you, the kids and Jeff could go to?

I was watching "On Demand" the other day on Comcast, and the making of this event was on the line-up. It looks like fun

I'm thinking that I need to watch Talladega Nights and the Wedding Crashers, so I can catch some of your humor. :confused3

:rotfl:

Yes watch the movie Melody! Its great! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: The Pirate and Princess Party are held during other times of the year. During Sept and Oct its the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) and we are set for that. I'm so excited. I've heard its AWESOME!

Keep it coming!! Before I stab you in the eyeball. ;) pirate:

I will! I've got to get Morgan's party out of the way. I'm up to my eyeballs in stuff to do so please dont stab them Megan! :lmao: You're pregant with twins so you are forgiven for the outburst! :rotfl2:

Okay...I took some pics for Jeff today. I'll put them in my TR since there's a ton of 'em. I don't want to add 40 pictures of Palm Trees to your trippie. People will think I'm goofy enough putting them on mine. :rotfl2:

I'm so going to check them out right now! I cant wait. I'll have Jeff comment on them when he gets home tonight too! He will be so excited. :cool1: Thanks! And feel free to post any pictures over here you want! We are all friends! :goodvibes

Our favourite Will Ferrell film has to be Anchorman - hysterical! DH saw it on the plane on our trip back from Orlando 2004. He was hysterical with laughter - the flight attendants were looking at him funny. I swear at one point they thought about sedating him...he was almost falling out his chair laughing so much!
He now has 2 copies of the film, has got a quote from it etched on his i-pod, and quotes from it routinely. Sad thing is I can quote him back as well! :thumbsup2
We all watched Elf at Christmas - funny funny funny!

Anchorman Rocks! The first time I was in a "mood" and didnt enjoy it much in the theaters. I'm not sure why because I love that whole crowd. PMS maybe!:rotfl2: I went a week later and laughed my rear off. Every time I watch it now I catch something new. Great one liners in that.

You MUST post the quote he has on is ipod! I cannot wait to hear which one it is. I think you have inspired me to pull quotes from that movie too because there are so many good ones. :lmao:

Elf is adorable. Dont you just want to hug him in that movie and take him home wrapped in a bow!

We love Zoolander and Elf!!! "We elves try to stick to the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corns and syrup."

When Buddy thought that writer was an elf, I was cracking up, I still crack up every time I see it.

hope this doesn't get me thrown off the thread, but I have never seen Anchorman :scared1: , shocking I know. Wil Ferrell is just hilarious! It is so great reading this report!!


No throwing off the thread I promise!

You should see it sometime. Has all the expected cameo's too! Its the first of the "mediocre man trilogy" for Will Farrell and all the characters names are going to have initials of RB. Ron Burgandy for Anchorman, Ricky Bobby for Talladega Nights and the next one yet to be developed. I cannot wait.

That quote from Elf was the best!

[AZMickeyfans]

Morgan's birthday is Saturday so I'm in the midst of getting ready for the party. :party: She is having a party at her dance studio with a Cheetah Grils One World movie theme. Since the movie is set in India and there is a lot of hip hop and Bollywood dancing they are taking a hip hop class then having pizza, cookie cake and ice cream and presents and then they go back in the studio to take a bollywood class. How fun is that!

I gave the dance teachers the Cheetah Girls One World soundtrack yesterday so they can start choreographing dances. :cheer2: I am making these head pieces with this beautiful Sari (Saree) fabric I found and some bracelets with gold bangles on them like belly dancers wear for the Bollywood part. I need to finish my shopping so i can make the bracelets today.

I also need to get my trip countdown calendar done. i picked up some black poster board and I'm going to put the paint chips on them from Home Depot! :goodvibes

I'll post pictures of all the stuff later when I get back. I'm off to Limited Too to do some birthday shopping now. If Morgan could have that store as her closet I would be so happy!!!

[AZMickeyfans]

Oh man this is awesome. It's only $7.50!?!? I'm totally going to call BBB after work and see if I can book this for DBF :laughing:

Isn't it cool! That would be so fun to have your DBF do this:cool1:

Ok, now I'm intriguied (?spelling?). Apologies if I've already missed that, but I need to know what the 'Mayday' incident is!!!! :surfweb:

It is a not to be missed story but I will let her tell it. Alex, make sure you tell everyone here your story. Its too funny!:rotfl2:

[Alex2kMommy]

Ok, now I'm intriguied (?spelling?). Apologies if I've already missed that, but I need to know what the 'Mayday' incident is!!!! :surfweb:
:rotfl2:

Sorry, Shawna already knows all about my DS4 and his shenanigans.

It is a not to be missed story but I will let her tell it. Alex, make sure you tell everyone here your story. Its too funny!:rotfl2:
OK, I'll try to remember exactly how it went down (so to speak.)

My DS4 is quite a character, very energetic and much too smart for his own good. He loves quoting lines from shows he's seen, especially his favorites, which include Scooby Doo and Yu-Gi-Oh cartoons. Often when we're out and about he'll suddenly drop into character and insist I call him "Yu-Gi" or "Pharoah" or "Velma", and he calls me "Tea" or "Daphne" (depending on which cartoon he's acting out.) He's dubbed my 4Runner the Mystery Machine. :rotfl:

So last winter it was very dark and dreary here in the Seattle area, and my DH talked me into taking DS4 (3yo at the time) on a 3-day trip to Disneyland. Since DS is a bit of a Houdini and looks for every opportunity to escape my clutches, I had serious concerns for his safety and my sanity, but eventually caved and went on the trip.

We had a great time (save for the 10 minutes or so he lost me in Toon Town), and on the flight back home I was thinking we weathered it fairly well and I'd do it again. DS was so well behaved on the flight. It's 3 hours of sitting still for him, so this was somewhat remarkable. But we read books, we colored, we played with stuffed animals. All was very well, and I was basking in vacation afterglow. :goodvibes

As we approached SeaTac Airport I heard the pilot announce we'd be making our approach shortly. I smiled to DS, "Honey, we're almost home!" He in turn sucked in a bunch of air and bellowed, "Mayday! Mayday! We're going down, we're going down!" :scared1: :scared1: :scared1:

I shushed him as quickly as I could: "Stop! Stop saying that!" He was SO LOUD! I was mortified, but with a quick glance around us I could almost believe no one heard, except the guy sitting next to DS with his face turned toward the window and his shaking shoulders...

DS asked innocently, "But why, Mama?" :confused3

I told him it might scare people who didn't like to fly on airplanes, and "where on earth did you hear that anyway???" :headache:

Apparently in one of the Yu-Gi-Oh cartoons there is a plane crash over the jungle... :sad2:

[Dr_Finkelstein]

As we approached SeaTac Airport I heard the pilot announce we'd be making our approach shortly. I smiled to DS, "Honey, we're almost home!" He in turn sucked in a bunch of air and bellowed, "Mayday! Mayday! We're going down, we're going down!"

I shushed him as quickly as I could: "Stop! Stop saying that!" He was SO LOUD! I was mortified, but with a quick glance around us I could almost believe no one heard, except the guy sitting next to DS with his face turned toward the window and his shaking shoulders...

DS asked innocently, "But why, Mama?"

I told him it might scare people who didn't like to fly on airplanes, and "where on earth did you hear that anyway???"

Apparently in one of the Yu-Gi-Oh cartoons there is a plane crash over the jungle...

OMG!!!!!! :lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl:

That was one of the funniest things I've ever heard!!! I know, mortifying at the time, but hysterical!

You must be really looking forward to the thought of a longer flight, who knows what new quotes he'll have for then!.

You MUST post the quote he has on is ipod! I cannot wait to hear which one it is. I think you have inspired me to pull quotes from that movie too because there are so many good ones.

"Ohh, it's the deep burn! Oh, it's so deep!"

We also like "I'm in a glass case of emotion!"....or "They've done studies you know. 60% of the time it works, everytime."

"The only way to bag a classy lady, is to give her 2 tickets to the gun show."

Have been training the children to 'kiss their guns' on request. However, they're nearly 8 now and they don't like doing it in public anymore.

Evenmore worrying is the fact that DH's favourite character and 'inspirational role model' is Brick Tamland...:rolleyes1 Step away slowly, children.

[kathleen27]

POP Century, We’ve never stayed here. My dreams of Wilderness Lodge were dashed by my checkbook. Actually we chose for a longer 12 night stay so we ditched the High dollar digs and are headed to funky town. :hippie: It looks like so much fun. My kids actually loved the pictures here as opposed to any other hotel and that is what this trip is about isn’t it? I’m tellin’ you though if the pirate rooms were done at the CBR we would rock that place! pirate: Jeff saw the pictures and suggested we change the master exactly into that room. When I said “would we have 2 beds then” he said “YEAH, I want to be my own captain of my own ship. Hello!” Oh boy. :faint:


Jacob loves the Pop pictures too. He wouldn't consider anyplace else.
Which works out well price wise!!!:thumbsup2

I heard about the pirate rooms, but I haven't seen photos yet. Will have to look for those.

VIP Parties we are invited to: :snooty: Oct 7 MNSSHP! Ok so I know half the DIS is going on that night and we were not invited, we purchased our tickets but a girl can dream can’t she? I am so hoping to see all of my new DIS friends there that night! Its going to be so much fun. I’ve never been to one of the parties and I have such high expectations for this one. I LOVE me some Halloween! :woohoo:


:lmao:

We're looking forward to the party too!!!

Yachts I have procured for the children: :snooty: Again, delusional, I did book the kids the Pirate Cruise from the Grand Floridian. pirate: This looks so cute.

The pirate cruise sounds like fun!!! pirate:


Here is where most people stop and stare at us with mouths open, chin hitting the pavement. We really don’t have much planned. CRT breakfast, Chef Mickey’s dinner, WCC dinner and Sci-Fi lunch. That’s it.

I heard Tusker House was really good but aren’t the characters the same as Chef Mickey’s? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Our last trip was 5 days with 2 ADR's. My daughter is a picky eater, and doesn't like anything. Plus it takes less time away from the parks.
My son on the other hand eats more than me. He is getting taller and taller. :scared1:

There is a LOT of repetition with the character meals. But Chef Mickey's does not have chip n dale. Tusker house has Daisy duck. O'hana has lilo & stitch.

Royal Treatment: We’ve got BBB booked just before MNSSHP starts with both the Cool Dude for Jake and the Crown Package for Morgan This is a surprise.


That'll be so much fun!!!

Morgan's birthday is Saturday so I'm in the midst of getting ready for the party. :party: She is having a party at her dance studio with a Cheetah Grils One World movie theme. Since the movie is set in India and there is a lot of hip hop and Bollywood dancing they are taking a hip hop class then having pizza, cookie cake and ice cream and presents and then they go back in the studio to take a bollywood class. How fun is that!

I also need to get my trip countdown calendar done. i picked up some black poster board and I'm going to put the paint chips on them from Home Depot! :goodvibes

The party sounds great!!!
What a fun idea!!!!

Looking forward to seeing the countdown calendar.



As we approached SeaTac Airport I heard the pilot announce we'd be making our approach shortly. I smiled to DS, "Honey, we're almost home!" He in turn sucked in a bunch of air and bellowed, "Mayday! Mayday! We're going down, we're going down!" :scared1: :scared1: :scared1:

I shushed him as quickly as I could: "Stop! Stop saying that!" He was SO LOUD! I was mortified, but with a quick glance around us I could almost believe no one heard, except the guy sitting next to DS with his face turned toward the window and his shaking shoulders...


:lmao: :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl2:

[OneTreeHillAddict]

What restaurant does Jeff manage? Am I allowed to ask? I'm an uptight paranoid private person so I understand if ya don't wanna answer. :lmao:

[Mkgaapril]

ok, I got up to get DD off to school and came to the pc for more of the TR (which is cute btw) and uh I am not seeing much..don't be a slacker :lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

OMG!!!!!! :lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl:

That was one of the funniest things I've ever heard!!! I know, mortifying at the time, but hysterical!

You must be really looking forward to the thought of a longer flight, who knows what new quotes he'll have for then!.

Thats a classic story isn't it! :lmao: Great job retelling it Alex! :thumbsup2 Thank you!

"Ohh, it's the deep burn! Oh, it's so deep!"

We also like "I'm in a glass case of emotion!"....or "They've done studies you know. 60% of the time it works, everytime."

"The only way to bag a classy lady, is to give her 2 tickets to the gun show."

Have been training the children to 'kiss their guns' on request. However, they're nearly 8 now and they don't like doing it in public anymore.

Evenmore worrying is the fact that DH's favourite character and 'inspirational role model' is Brick Tamland...:rolleyes1 Step away slowly, children.

Great Quote! :lmao: Its so hard to choose one to immortilize isnt it?

Brick Tamland is AMAZING! We have a friend who does a great impression of him and it kills me everytime. I about die laughing. :lmao:

Jacob loves the Pop pictures too. He wouldn't consider anyplace else.
Which works out well price wise!!!:thumbsup2

Isnt it great when it works out that way!

I heard about the pirate rooms, but I haven't seen photos yet. Will have to look for those.

http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/business_tourism_aviation/2008/07/pirates-of-the.html



:lmao:

We're looking forward to the party too!!!



The pirate cruise sounds like fun!!! pirate:



Our last trip was 5 days with 2 ADR's. My daughter is a picky eater, and doesn't like anything. Plus it takes less time away from the parks.
My son on the other hand eats more than me. He is getting taller and taller. :scared1:

There is a LOT of repetition with the character meals. But Chef Mickey's does not have chip n dale. Tusker house has Daisy duck. O'hana has lilo & stitch.

I keep telling myself that he is not that into characters so I just wont force the issue just because I feel its something we "have" to do. Like "Oh we are going to WDW so we "have" to do 7 character meals" We have the 2 booked and I think that will be enough for him. If he chooses to see the characters at all this time. ( I need to keep that in mind! ) We can go in lines and do meet and greets to get autographs.
That'll be so much fun!!!



The party sounds great!!!
What a fun idea!!!!

Looking forward to seeing the countdown calendar.




:lmao: :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl2:

I was going to try to get the countdown calendar done this week but I underestimated all I had to do for the birthday party Saturday and with dance and school meetings I've been swamped so after Saturday I have only this trip to focus on! :cool1: :cool1:

What restaurant does Jeff manage? Am I allowed to ask? I'm an uptight paranoid private person so I understand if ya don't wanna answer. :lmao:

I'll PM ya!

ok, I got up to get DD off to school and came to the pc for more of the TR (which is cute btw) and uh I am not seeing much..don't be a slacker :lmao:


:lmao: impatient! I know I was going to get some pictures up today but I was at the school most of the day and behind the sewing machine the other making headpieces and bracelets for the birthday party. Tomorrow I'll post pictures of what has been keeping me from my report. :lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

Here is a quick thought though. I need some input. Jake and Jeff love pirates. We probably will stay at CBR after the pirate rooms are finished during future trips and request those but the new pool will just be finished before we get there.

I'm considering booking room only for the last 2 nights of our stay at:scared1: RACK RATE :scared1: so Jake can play in the pirate themed pool.

We dont live in FL, we dont have AAA, we dont have an AP and they dont have any room only rates out now. We did the vacation package by purchasing just 1 ticket for the cheaper rooms at POP and got our tickets though Undercover Tourist before they went up so I dont want to do that again.

What do you think? DISCUSS

[Mkgaapril]

S. check mouse savers...sometimes they have codes...and I do a room for a night or two on top of my package often...I need the down time and love the thought of just hanging by the pool. Its also a great time to resort hop and check them all out (like you havent seen them)..or head downtown and spend some time...the putt putt is cute too!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I say do it and RELAX....

[AZMickeyfans]

Ok birthday party is OVER!!! :worship: I love doing them for the kids, absolutely love them but they consume ALL of my time. Now my time is dedicated to my trip!!!

I'll get pictures up and show you the countdown calendar that Jake and I made too.

I just have to wake up and find my camera in the aftermath from last night! :faint:

We have another birthday party to go to today at a water park. I love water parks! :cool1:

So my daughter turned 8 yesterday which makes me so sad because she is growing up yet so happy because she is becoming a beautiful young lady.

She was allowed 20 girls to invite to the party yesterday. We made a list of her dance and school friends. A week and a half ago she came to me and asked if she could invite one more. I said no because we were trying to limit this party. Last year we had 47 girls. :scared1: I knew adding 1 more meant adding another and another. It could easily climb. So I said no we agreed on 20. She almost started crying and said that there was this little girl "Sally" (thats not her name) but no one invites her to any bithday parties and "Sally" invited the whole class over the summer to her birthday and no one showed up except Morgan and she doesnt want to leave her out and make her sad. :sad1: :love: Of course she could invite "Sally". We try to raise Morgan to be compassionate and respect and acknowledge others feelings and she is learning very well. :teacher: I should have been the one to think to invite "Sally" but we were so focused on who she is good friends with and we couldnt invite all of them even that it just didnt cross my mind but my 8 year old daughter did!:love: I love that girl! "Sally" came and Morgan made sure she chose her for her dance team when they broke up and did small group dances. I think "Sally" had a good time.:thumbsup2

What else does turning 8 mean that only my fellow DIS members would understand?

When I booked our WDW vacation I said I have 2 adults and 2 children, Jake who is 5 and Morgan who will be 8 on this trip. 8 means the trip is closer. 8 means the trip is more real.

8 means I have 39 days left!!!!

[Dr_Finkelstein]

That was really thoughtful of your daughter! :hippie: You try and raise them to be nice people and to be considerate of others...it's when they do something like that, without prompting, you know you've done something right! :hug:

39 days!! :woohoo:

[AZMickeyfans]

"You wanna see the real world of male modeling? The one they dont show you in magazines or on the E Channel" -Derek Zoolander

"Yeah, I guess" -Matilda

Zoolander quote for this one folks!

Jake and I made our count down calendar while Morgan was in dance lessons yesterday (before her party) We are coloring each Micky head with black marker so you cant see it when its time to cross that days number off.

Here it is and my lovely male model Jake.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010035.jpg

I know we have a lot of ELF fans on this PTR so notice the shirt! :lmao: He likes to sleep in my shirts sometimes. :cloud9:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010036.jpg

And another Will Ferrell classic t-shirt :lmao: First one to get where this quote is from gets a virtual prize! :cheer2:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010037.jpg

[jewjubean]

awww i love your ptr! Im in the resturant business and im not the only one who works alot ! your family is soo cute and cant wait to hear more about your trip!

[AZMickeyfans]

I'll post a few random pictures of the party (the reason I've been slacking!:lmao: ) and some more of my yard for Tammy (OneTreeHillFan). Then I promise I'll get back on track although dont expect me to stay there. :lmao: :rotfl2:

Here is my daughter at her party. We had it at the dance studio. About 20 girls. :faint: I had made these costumes and bracelets for the Bollywood dance portion of the party. They danced to a Cheetah girls One World songs both hip hop and Bollywood. It was so cute. Morgan had a new dance outfit to wear for the night too. She was so excited. :cheer2:

If she were older she would kill me for this but here she is with her hair still up in rollers from the night before. :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1000953.jpg

Yes, I am that mom who gives her daughter an ipod. :rolleyes1 Actually, I've been deemed evil because all of her dance friends have one and she was the last one to get one. :lmao:

Then my mom gave her Julie Albright (an American Girl) She is in love with her and hasn't left her side since she opened her.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1000955.jpg

At the studio in her new dance clothes

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010015.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010009.jpg

A couple of pictures from the Bollywood dance so you can see the costumes I've been working on. They looked so pretty as a group. Plus I learned how to distort faces of the other girls! :yay: :lmao:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010024.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010026.jpg

Ending pose with Morgan. :cutie: This final dance they did in front of all the parents who came to pick them up. It was so cute.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010028.jpg

[mrsksomeday]

And another Will Ferrell classic t-shirt :lmao: First one to get where this quote is from gets a virtual prize! :cheer2:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010037.jpg

Saturday Night Live comedy sketch about the recording of the song (Don't Fear) The Reaper by Blue Öyster Cult. Will was hilarious in this won, so was Christopher Walken.

[mrsksomeday]

Ok, now I comment on the other stuff, I just had to get my answer to the "cowbell" question in first :lmao:.

Great countdown calendar!! I loved your male model and the t-shirts were awesome!!

Morgan is such a sweet person to want to invite "Sally". You are raising that girl right!! You won't have to have her out on the side of the road picking up trash like Ricky Bobby's kids :thumbsup2.

The pictures from the party were wonderful. Great gift and great party!! Your kids are adorable!!!

[AZMickeyfans]

Saturday Night Live comedy sketch about the recording of the song (Don't Fear) The Reaper by Blue Öyster Cult. Will was hilarious in this won, so was Christopher Walken.


DING! DING! DING! Hilarious sketch. :rotfl2: "I got a fever and the only prescription is more cowbell" For those of you who have never seen it here ya go.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhSkRHXTKlw

Here is your prize

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p227/allmumma/Pirate_Treasure.jpg

Or because not all treasure is silver and gold mate.....


http://i328.photobucket.com/albums/l321/lizzie39/Pirates%20of%20the%20Caribbean/PiratesCaribbeanAtWorldsEnd7.jpg

[AZMickeyfans]

awww i love your ptr! Im in the resturant business and im not the only one who works alot ! your family is soo cute and cant wait to hear more about your trip!

:welcome: I know there are so many professions that work a ton of hours it just seems across the board restaurants employees work so many hours. Its nuts. Thanks for joining in!

Ok, now I comment on the other stuff, I just had to get my answer to the "cowbell" question in first :lmao:.

Great countdown calendar!! I loved your male model and the t-shirts were awesome!!

Morgan is such a sweet person to want to invite "Sally". You are raising that girl right!! You won't have to have her out on the side of the road picking up trash like Ricky Bobby's kids :thumbsup2.

The pictures from the party were wonderful. Great gift and great party!! Your kids are adorable!!!

She was just so sweet about it. Made me feel so happy that she thought of that I wanted to cry. I love the unprompted moments where you know she is turning out ok.:lmao:

Hopefully no Walker and TR in this family. :rotfl2:

Thank you. The girls had a blast. I love throwing them special parties they will remember forever but I'm also glad when they are over so I can breathe. :lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

BBB experts needed. I'm thinking of dropping the BBB experience. Morgan is going as Jasmine (I will get to all the costumes later) and we have the BBB scheduled for about 5pm on the night of the party. Jasmine was just decided like 2 days ago. She wants her hair done in the pony tail like she wears. Like this

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f65/sparkling_diamond_2008/disney%20princess/thjan253.gif


the princess "do" I've seen there is a bun. The poor girl wears a bun to ballet 3 nights a week so that is nothing special and the others dont really go with the costume. Jake couldnt care less about his hair I was just doing his so he didnt feel left out.

So am I understanding it right that you just get the choices on that pamphlet? I'm starting to think she might have liked this more when she was a couple years younger. :confused3

[Philadisney]

Aw the pictures from the dance party looked great! You can tell she is having a wonderful time :dance3:

[hlrababy]

BBB experts needed. I'm thinking of dropping the BBB experience. Morgan is going as Jasmine (I will get to all the costumes later) and we have the BBB scheduled for about 5pm on the night of the party. Jasmine was just decided like 2 days ago. She wants her hair done in the pony tail like she wears. Like this

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f65/sparkling_diamond_2008/disney%20princess/thjan253.gif


the princess "do" I've seen there is a bun. The poor girl wears a bun to ballet 3 nights a week so that is nothing special and the others dont really go with the costume. Jake couldnt care less about his hair I was just doing his so he didnt feel left out.

So am I understanding it right that you just get the choices on that pamphlet? I'm starting to think she might have liked this more when she was a couple years younger. :confused3

Yeah, the only choices you get are the 3 that they have. I decided to cancel the BBB we have scheduled for our MNSSHP. Last year, we had it done and she looked really cute and had fun. But, we ended up taking the hair piece out and then washing her hair. I think I will let her do it when she gets older, but right now. No!

[OneTreeHillAddict]

I promised some funny pics of my mamas sagos so here they are...:lmao:

http://i345.photobucket.com/albums/p398/MrsGavinDeGraw/Yard/P1012696.jpg
My mama called me and said come over here...HURRY!! You gotta get a pic of this thing! It looks like a _______________________________ :rotfl2:
http://i345.photobucket.com/albums/p398/MrsGavinDeGraw/Yard/P1012698.jpg
Here's some from far away
http://i345.photobucket.com/albums/p398/MrsGavinDeGraw/Yard/P1012697.jpg
And one more....
http://i345.photobucket.com/albums/p398/MrsGavinDeGraw/Yard/P1012695.jpg
I hope for God's sake Jeff does NOT "like" these pics but anyway...they're tropicals! :rotfl2:

[OneTreeHillAddict]

Girl go check out MY BBB page! It has about everything you need to know on it. They sell a Jasmine wig but you don't get that done at BBB. It's one of the three pics or the boys hairdo. When I go I'm going to ask if girls can get that $7.50 style. It's super cute and shouldn't be just for boys! Anyway....go take a look at ME pagey and if ya still have ?'s ask.

[mrsksomeday]

Thank you so much for my prize!!! Keep the chest I just want the pirate pirate: .

[AZMickeyfans]

Aw the pictures from the dance party looked great! You can tell she is having a wonderful time :dance3:

Thanks! They had a blast. Some of the school girls even begged their parents to sign up for dance. Which was probably the owners reasoning behind doing it at the dance studio. :lmao:
Yeah, the only choices you get are the 3 that they have. I decided to cancel the BBB we have scheduled for our MNSSHP. Last year, we had it done and she looked really cute and had fun. But, we ended up taking the hair piece out and then washing her hair. I think I will let her do it when she gets older, but right now. No!

So you canceled and if I cancel then there are some openings on Oct 7 BBB!!! :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: Any takers??? When she said she wanted her hair just like Jasmine I thought well, I could do that for 25 cents!!! :lmao:

I promised some funny pics of my mamas sagos so here they are...:lmao:

http://i345.photobucket.com/albums/p398/MrsGavinDeGraw/Yard/P1012696.jpg
My mama called me and said come over here...HURRY!! You gotta get a pic of this thing! It looks like a _______________________________ :rotfl2:
http://i345.photobucket.com/albums/p398/MrsGavinDeGraw/Yard/P1012698.jpg
Here's some from far away
http://i345.photobucket.com/albums/p398/MrsGavinDeGraw/Yard/P1012697.jpg
And one more....
http://i345.photobucket.com/albums/p398/MrsGavinDeGraw/Yard/P1012695.jpg
I hope for God's sake Jeff does NOT "like" these pics but anyway...they're tropicals! :rotfl2:

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: I can't post what Jeff said!!! He did however start admiring with a little too much enthusiasm but it was honestly that his Sago's seeded out like that. Ours have never done that but we've seen them in California.

I've got better pics of our yard that I took today and I'll post them tomorrow.

Girl go check out MY BBB page! It has about everything you need to know on it. They sell a Jasmine wig but you don't get that done at BBB. It's one of the three pics or the boys hairdo. When I go I'm going to ask if girls can get that $7.50 style. It's super cute and shouldn't be just for boys! Anyway....go take a look at ME pagey and if ya still have ?'s ask.


I've checked out your awesome thread. :worship: After she said that she wanted a headband with a jewel on it and her hair in a pony tail just like Jasmines I figured she wouldn't be happy with the princess updo anymore. Now I'd do the Cool Dude package for all of us another day. That would be fun. So let me know! :thumbsup2 I figured I could save the mula and go buy a headband and BeJewel it and she would be very happy! :thumbsup2

[AZMickeyfans]

Thank you so much for my prize!!! Keep the chest I just want the pirate pirate: .

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: No problem!!!

[OneTreeHillAddict]

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: I can't post what Jeff said!!! He did however start admiring with a little too much enthusiasm but it was honestly that his Sago's seeded out like that. Ours have never done that but we've seen them in California.

I've got better pics of our yard that I took today and I'll post them tomorrow.




You'll have to email me and tell me what he said! :lmao: You would think out of all the sagos in my yard I'd have at least ONE boy! I guess he's enough for all of us!

Post the pics. I'm so bored. I have nothing to do and I got up at 6:30! 3:30 your time, no wait, you all don't do daylight savings time. Anyway it's EARLY for me! :dance3:

[AZMickeyfans]

Yeah, I think its still 3:30 my time though because right now we are on the same time as Pacific because we dont move. The world moves around Arizona! :lmao:


Ok here are some yard pictures. Half the stuff is brown and not in bloom because that is summer in the desert! It looks best in the winter.

Jeff is not here to consult on names so I'm just going to post them.

Front yard. The sun was kind of harsh yesterday morning sorry about that.

These pines are out by the street. Everyone says they dont go with the whole florida theme. Everyone who hasnt been to Florida who hasnt realized that there are pines all over the state!!! :lmao: Also the little Sycamores that are having trouble getting started. Notice how small they are and we planted them 3 years ago. Hopefully they will make it. They dont like the summer.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010038-1.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010039-1.jpg

Front of the house. We had 2 queens this large but a Monsoon storm knocked it over. That was a terrible day. Jeff is still very upset about it. He decided to grow from a younger one instead of planting a larger one to match. :confused3

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010042-1.jpg

close up of the shaded area under the larger Queen

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010043-1.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010040-1.jpg

the Sagos in the front look the best they are always in the shade luckily.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010041-1.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010046-1.jpg

Jake is 44 inches tall so that gives some perspective how tall the pygmys in the front are.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010047-1.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010048-1.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010045-1.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010044-1.jpg

[AZMickeyfans]

Back yard pictures

Jake by lemon and red grapefruit

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010050-1.jpg

One of the sagos in the back. Isnt bad but doesnt look as good as the front.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010053.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010071.jpg

Deadly Pineapple palm. He just trimmed this baby up big time. Thats why he still has his war wound. Usually it stretches out beyond the trunks of the Queens and shades the Ginger plants below. It looks reallly pretty that way but he hates to trim it so he only does it once a year and cuts it up as high as he can stand. He is still in pain from it.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010072.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010068.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010054.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010052.jpg

A few years ago we purchased those topiary Disney frames from Disney Shopping. Not thinking that nothing much that forms a topiary grows here. Well, rosemary sort of does and that is what we are working with now. We've tried different other stuff but they all die.

Here is the backside of Pluto. :lmao:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010055.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010069.jpg

Goofy got taken over by a Passion vine. We need to get out there and untangle him but we kind of think it funny considering its Goofy. :lmao:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010059.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010056.jpg

More citrus. We have 10 citrus trees in the yard. Most are producing this year for the first time. I'm so excited. :yay:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010057.jpg

Double Mexican Fan Palms that were babies from the parent palms at my parents. Just like I was. :lmao:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010058.jpg

Dont mind the fence, I need to paint it but our garden (which is dead is back this way. Grape vines grow on top of it from the other end and the middle and some other vine from this side that I cannot remember the name of. The hibiscus is really pretty in bloom. We have many of those too but none are in bloom now. And that is a pink grapefruit tree.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010061.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010070.jpg

I dont know where the mickey picture is but here is Minnie and we have donald too.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010067.jpg

He sometimes puts the baby Queens in the barrels until they get established and he figures out exactly where he wants them so we have 3 like that now. See how brown they are? They have a hard time getting started in the desert but they do well once they adapt.

[OneTreeHillAddict]

Gosh look at that perfect grass!!! I LOVE your yard ~ it gorgeous!!! I hear the Queens are extremely vulnerable to storms. The huge ones here at Home Depot were $119. Not bad, even cheaper than the ones I saw in FL. Your sagos are big too! They look very healthy so the shade must be good for them! My favorite one is hidden under a palm too. So which is the pineapple palm? I wanna see. That just sounds like a nice looking tree! I can see Jeff now...at WDW he'll be pulling seed pods off all the trees and bringing them back home. :rotfl2: Hey...that's not a bad idea. :confused: :lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

The Pineapple palm is this one. He chopped it way up so he doesnt have to do it very often but usually its very full. Thats why he is still hurt from 3 weeks ago! :scared1:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010068.jpg

And thanks! :goodvibes

[OneTreeHillAddict]

The fruit trees have a LOT of fruit on 'em. We've tried citrus several times and it doesn't do well. Pear trees, Blueberry trees, and grapes do great here though. Speaking of he has a HUGE grapevine made back there! Ya'll have a bunch of the Queens! I hear they grow pretty fast. Mine are probably about 15 ft right now. I wish they were about 6 ft taller. Is that a firepit amongst the backyard queens? I LOVE that area! The double Mexican fan is cool too! I had about 6 of those but only one survived. It doesn't look too healthy. Holy cow there's a downpour here right now! Must be Fay. :confused3 Jeff needs to open a nursery. He's in the wrong field of work. You guys have an amazing place! LOVE it! The pineapple palm looks like the ones I have by the road...the canary island date palm? The thorns look the same! They supposedly get huge mongus!

[The Marsons]

Loving the trip report and i too have been laughing out loud!

Looking forward to reading more!

[AZMickeyfans]

The fruit trees have a LOT of fruit on 'em. We've tried citrus several times and it doesn't do well. Pear trees, Blueberry trees, and grapes do great here though. Speaking of he has a HUGE grapevine made back there! Ya'll have a bunch of the Queens! I hear they grow pretty fast. Mine are probably about 15 ft right now. I wish they were about 6 ft taller. Is that a firepit amongst the backyard queens? I LOVE that area! The double Mexican fan is cool too! I had about 6 of those but only one survived. It doesn't look too healthy. Holy cow there's a downpour here right now! Must be Fay. :confused3 Jeff needs to open a nursery. He's in the wrong field of work. You guys have an amazing place! LOVE it! The pineapple palm looks like the ones I have by the road...the canary island date palm? The thorns look the same! They supposedly get huge mongus!

Thanks! Last year we had 1 grapefruit out of the whole bunch! :lmao: that is what Jeff thought the Pineapple palm was. They might be called different names in diff regions? :confused3 We call this our oasis in the desert!

Loving the trip report and i too have been laughing out loud!

Looking forward to reading more!

:welcome: Thank you for reading along! I promise I'll get back to the planning portion of it but I cant promise I'll stay on track! I get easily distracted! Feel free to jump in and chat about any topic on your mind. This should become a planning chat thread! :lmao:

[kathleen27]

The party looks like so much fun!
I love throwing kids parties but it is exhausting.
47 is a lot!!!! I can see why you gave her a limit this time. :lmao:
That was really sweet of her to add "Sally".

No Jasmine look at BBB. :sad2:

Now I'd do the Cool Dude package for all of us another day. That would be fun. So let me know!

I don't know the details, but I've read about trips to the Barber shop on Main St, where they will do stuff with gel or color or glitter. :confused3

Your yard looks awsome!

[irky416]

I love your countdown calendar!

[AZMickeyfans]

The party looks like so much fun!
I love throwing kids parties but it is exhausting.
47 is a lot!!!! I can see why you gave her a limit this time. :lmao:
That was really sweet of her to add "Sally".

No Jasmine look at BBB. :sad2:



I don't know the details, but I've read about trips to the Barber shop on Main St, where they will do stuff with gel or color or glitter. :confused3

Your yard looks awsome!


Oh, I might have to check out the Barber shop on one of our MK days. I think we've given up on BBB completely. Today she told me she doesnt even want the Jasmine crown because Jasmine wears an elastic headband with a jewel in the middle and she wants me to make that and the practical side of her came out when she said it would be less frustrating on rides! :lmao:

And thanks! I will pass that on to Jeff. :goodvibes

I love your countdown calendar!

Thank you! We had placed them in the shape of Mickey's head and then when Jake started glueing he lost all recollection of that concept. I had to remind him that we were trying to make a Mickey so he peeled them off and placed them again. :lmao: It was funny to see him do it. I glued about half and he did the other half. We are coloring them black each morning because tearing them off leaves an ugly white mark where the poster rips. Morgan hated that and suggested we colored them with Marker. She's a smart cookie.

[AZMickeyfans]

Today my Magical Express tags came! :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: That made the trip so real. YEAH! Not much longer to wait. :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer:

We've never done ME. Here is my arrival plan.

We come in just before 4pm and are catching ME to POP. I have reservations at Chef Mickeys that night around 8pm. For those who have done ME do you think we have enough time? I will have our clothes for Chef Mickey's with us in the carry ons so we dont need our luggage but I would like to get to the TTC or even better, EPCOT and have a ton of time to ride the monorail ALL the way to the Contemporary because my kids just love the monorail at Disneyland and we rarely do it.

Ok EPCOT might be stretching it. :lmao: But if it takes about 45-1hour from airport to resort then check in, get semi settled in room without luggage, change and have travel time to Chef Mickeys I thought it might be cutting it close. I dont want to be super fast rushing just off of the plane.

This is a surprise for the kids. Shhhhhh I just thought it would be a great way to start the vacation. :cool1: We plan on picking up some autograph books in the POP gift shop or at the Contemporary itself. :yay: :yay: :yay:

So ME experts let me know if you think this is doable? How long have you waited for a bus or on the bus waiting to leave? Does it wait to fill up? Of course i'm planning on the flight not being late. :rotfl2:

[OneTreeHillAddict]

Well this year it looks like ya'll could make a years supply of grapefruit juice! They must have just turned into adult fruit trees or something. Those babies are full!

[Alysa]

As for the ME - you will definitely make the Chef Mickey but you might not have time for anything else. It could take 2 hours from landing, depending how many people are on the bus and how many places you stop. And good plan with the clothes in the carry-on. Our last trip they brought our luggage by at 2am at the animal kingdom. :scared1: They called us at 1am to ask if it was okay to bring them by in the next 15 minutes. And strangely enough, an hour later, they didn't get a tip.

[Philadisney]

I think that sounds like enough time. Cool surprise!!

[AZMickeyfans]

Well this year it looks like ya'll could make a years supply of grapefruit juice! They must have just turned into adult fruit trees or something. Those babies are full!

Lets keep our fingers crossed Jake doesnt use them as baseballs before I get to eat them! :rotfl2:

As for the ME - you will definitely make the Chef Mickey but you might not have time for anything else. It could take 2 hours from landing, depending how many people are on the bus and how many places you stop. And good plan with the clothes in the carry-on. Our last trip they brought our luggage by at 2am at the animal kingdom. :scared1: They called us at 1am to ask if it was okay to bring them by in the next 15 minutes. And strangely enough, an hour later, they didn't get a tip.

Thanks for the info and time estimates. 2am luggage! :scared1: I'll throw in jammies just in case. We do not change planes but we have a stop over in St Louis I think. I keep thinking that could get delayed, I should have taken the later nonstop. I was hoping to get in an hour earlier. Hopefully I dont get in an hour later! :lmao: That would SOOOO be my luck! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: I figure the 8pm dinner will be 5pm here. I'll bring snacks on the plane. Can you do that now? We dont fly much I need to be finding out don't I. :lmao:

I'm thinking jammies, essential toiletries and maybe clothes for the next day in case luggage gets lost by airline and it takes a day to get there. that would stink.

I wouldn't have tipped either!

I think that sounds like enough time. Cool surprise!!

Thanks! I thought lets bring on the characters right away. It will be a good test for Jake to see how he takes to the characters. If he just loves it I can get with the Disney Dining and see if I can squeeze in any other character meals. :thumbsup2

I hate being late. It makes me nervous and I get all antsy. I seriously think I break out in hives when I'm late and I have no control over it. :guilty:

[hlrababy]

I promised some funny pics of my mamas sagos so here they are...:lmao:

http://i345.photobucket.com/albums/p398/MrsGavinDeGraw/Yard/P1012696.jpg
My mama called me and said come over here...HURRY!! You gotta get a pic of this thing! It looks like a _______________________________ :rotfl2:
http://i345.photobucket.com/albums/p398/MrsGavinDeGraw/Yard/P1012698.jpg
Here's some from far away
http://i345.photobucket.com/albums/p398/MrsGavinDeGraw/Yard/P1012697.jpg
And one more....
http://i345.photobucket.com/albums/p398/MrsGavinDeGraw/Yard/P1012695.jpg
I hope for God's sake Jeff does NOT "like" these pics but anyway...they're tropicals! :rotfl2:

Holy moly!!!! I just spit mountain dew all over my computer screen!!! I soooo need one of those in my yard!!

[AZMickeyfans]

Since my kids have been in school I have been doing some shopping. :rolleyes1 In my defense I have been getting some cute things for great prices at the Disney store for our trip.

Here are some back packs for the kids. We talked that Mommy is not going to carry all of the water bottles and autograph books this time. :cool1: I really didnt expect Jake to do this but Morgan is old enough to carry a little back pack and put her autograph book and her wallet into. She even said she wanted to carry Jake's autograph book too. :love: So I was going to get something else but they saw these and Jake wanted one too. They were half off. I picked up the activity books for the plane as well. :cool1:

Plush Mickey and Minnie backpacks.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010076.jpg

I grabbed a ton of $5.00 t-shirts. I have a thing about wearing Disney stuff in the parks. It always made me happy as a CM to see people all decked out in Disney clothes so I make sure we try to wear something Disney most days.

Matching shirts for Jake and Daddy

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010073.jpg

Morgan and I

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010074.jpg

Shirts for Jake, Jeff and I

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010077.jpg

And Morgan and I

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010075.jpg

We have a lot of Disney stuff and I picked up some Disney fabric if I ever get around to sewing a few outfits then I should be set. :cool1:

[AZMickeyfans]

Holy moly!!!! I just spit mountain dew all over my computer screen!!! I soooo need one of those in my yard!!

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: I know that tree ROCKS. :lmao: :lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

I was going to get to my first few days plans because It so confusing but we are starting to get one crazy storm coming in right now which is very odd. So I better get off the computer til its clear. :thumbsup2

[Philadisney]

I love the stuff you picked up, especially the backpacks! So cute.

Good luck with the storm, I hope it blows over fast!!

[Alysa]

I LOVE the backpacks!

[kathleen27]

The backpacks are adorable! :goodvibes

Great Disney shirts.
That's nice to hear that you liked seeing guests in Disney clothes.

[tybrilinja]

HI, I love you pre trip report! I can't wait to hear all about you actual trip. You writing style is wonderful and very entertaining.

I too, love those backpacks, I'm going to have to make a trip to our closest Disney Store soon.

Keep up the good work, can't wait for next installment of ptr.

[irky416]

I love your Disney backpacks!!

Great shirts, also!

[Spartangirl]

LOVE all the things you picked up! The shirts are great and the backpacks are adorable! :thumbsup2

[AZMickeyfans]

I love the stuff you picked up, especially the backpacks! So cute.

Good luck with the storm, I hope it blows over fast!!

Thanks, it was a strange morning storm. Things are good now. Morgan got so excited when she saw them which surprised me!

I LOVE the backpacks!

:goodvibes I cant wait to take a picture from behind when they are walking down Main Street! I just have this fantasy picture in my head!!!

The backpacks are adorable! :goodvibes

Great Disney shirts.
That's nice to hear that you liked seeing guests in Disney clothes.

I loved seeing people get in the Disney spirit. It made me so happy. Honestly, I noticed every Disney shirt even if it was old and worn out I noticed it. :thumbsup2

HI, I love you pre trip report! I can't wait to hear all about you actual trip. You writing style is wonderful and very entertaining.

I too, love those backpacks, I'm going to have to make a trip to our closest Disney Store soon.

Keep up the good work, can't wait for next installment of ptr.

:welcome: They are so cute aren't they? I really was surprised Morgan liked them but she just got so excited like a 3 year old. Its nice to see her still act like a little girl even when the pre-teen years are peeking through! :scared1:

I love your Disney backpacks!!

Great shirts, also!

I just had to eat up $5.00 shirts! I can't resist a sale. Any sale! ;)

LOVE all the things you picked up! The shirts are great and the backpacks are adorable! :thumbsup2

I'm going to take inventory sometime next week and then look for more stuff or order offline to fill in holes. I know I'll have to do some laundry there but I dont want to have to do it too often! :rolleyes1 :laundy:

[AZMickeyfans]

"Crabcakes and Football, that's what Maryland does" - Flip, Wedding Crashers

Now, I'm not from Maryland, nor do I particularily enjoy a crabcake. Cake, yes. Crab, yes but crabcakes, no. :scared: What I do know is that anytime in our house that something is exciting or goes really right we yell that out! :lmao:

What I also know is that it has the word football in it. :idea: Football is what my son was supposed to have tonight but the storm this morning flooded the practice field and it was canceled. :eek: Football is what he wants to play with me now in the street. Football being canceled is what lead me to my mailbox tonight instead of tomorrow or two weeks from now when it was so jammed packed I couldnt even pull the mail out.:rolleyes1 Football is what brought on to discover that my
WDW DOCUMENTS ARRIVED TODAY!!!

:dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer::dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer::dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

:woohoo:

[hlrababy]

[SIZE="4"][COLOR="SeaGreen"]"Crabcakes and Football, that's what Maryland does" - Flip, Wedding Crashers



awwww, heck yeah!!!!!!! That is one of my fav quotes!!!!!:rotfl2:

[Spartangirl]

Yay for getting your docs! Just over a month! :yay:

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Just caught up! Didn't realise I had missed so much!
LOVE the backpacks and t shirts! The Disney Store is so pricey here in the UK especially clothes - so I'll definately be buying on holiday! Love a bargain! :thumbsup2
The backpacks are great - such a good idea! I may just use that for my two! It always seems to be me who carries everything about! :confused3 :rotfl:
:woohoo: :cheer2: :cheer2: to the travel documents coming!!!! You feel as if it's really happening then!!
Keep posting
Di x

[AZMickeyfans]

:woohoo:

:cool1:

awwww, heck yeah!!!!!!! That is one of my fav quotes!!!!!:rotfl2:


Its used so much around here. The kids asked where Maryland was and if we could go there one day. I'll have to visit just so I can pay respect!!!


Yay for getting your docs! Just over a month! :yay:

I can't wait til the ticker says just under a month. :yay: :yay:

Just caught up! Didn't realise I had missed so much!
LOVE the backpacks and t shirts! The Disney Store is so pricey here in the UK especially clothes - so I'll definately be buying on holiday! Love a bargain! :thumbsup2
The backpacks are great - such a good idea! I may just use that for my two! It always seems to be me who carries everything about! :confused3 :rotfl:
:woohoo: :cheer2: :cheer2: to the travel documents coming!!!! You feel as if it's really happening then!!
Keep posting
Di x


I was so excited about them wanting to carry the backpacks. In reality I have a feeling I will end up carrying not only my baggalini but the backpacks as well. ;) :rotfl2: Hopefully Morgan can hold her end of the bargain but I'm taking bets on Jake handing his off within the first hour. :lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

So we have had some crazy storms here in the past couple days. Power outages, trees down at my moms, damage at my friends house so I've been busy getting things back to normal and I hear it coming in again tonight.

I'm anxious to post my plans but I'm too exhausted to start tonight or else I'd post something wild like we were going to Hong Kong Disney instead. :lmao: I should not post while sleepy.

tomorrow it is though.

BTW, I just found out that Blizzard Beach is closed while we are there. :scared1: A while ago I printed the hours and had planned that into our schedule. :scared1: I'm so sad. Glad I checked the updated refurbishment schedule.

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

BTW, I just found out that Blizzard Beach is closed while we are there. :scared1: A while ago I printed the hours and had planned that into our schedule. :scared1: I'm so sad. Glad I checked the updated refurbishment schedule.

That's too bad, you should go to Typhoon Lagoon instead, that is our favourite water park. :thumbsup2

[AZMickeyfans]

That's too bad, you should go to Typhoon Lagoon instead, that is our favourite water park. :thumbsup2


We had them both scheduled so if the kids really like TL we'll do that twice!! :thumbsup2 I really think they will enjoy TL better anyway so I'm not too upset. Morgan just wanted to try out that preteen area and walk across iceburgs in BB. :lmao:

[Alysa]

Sorry about Blizzard Beach. My sister wants to try TL too - maybe we'll see you there!
;)

[Baloo]

Found you via Mrs.the Kings TR...really enjoy reading about you Pre trip and all the other stuff in your life too!

Really cool how you and DH met.Like all the pictures from then and when the kids were little.

What a cool birthday party your daughter had and what a sweet girl she is for thinking of Sally.:goodvibes Those costumes were great!


All the goodies you've gotten are great...I wish our Disney Store was still open..I loved when they had $5 t-shirts.

And lastly...your yard is goregous!!! :thumbsup2


Looking forward to reading more!

[AZMickeyfans]

Sorry about Blizzard Beach. My sister wants to try TL too - maybe we'll see you there!
;)

:yay: :yay: :yay: Ooohh that would be fun. Look for the large pasty flourescent white girl. That would be me. (note to self.....start sunless tanner)
Found you via Mrs.the Kings TR...really enjoy reading about you Pre trip and all the other stuff in your life too!

Really cool how you and DH met.Like all the pictures from then and when the kids were little.

What a cool birthday party your daughter had and what a sweet girl she is for thinking of Sally.:goodvibes Those costumes were great!


All the goodies you've gotten are great...I wish our Disney Store was still open..I loved when they had $5 t-shirts.

And lastly...your yard is goregous!!! :thumbsup2


Looking forward to reading more!

:welcome: Thanks for coming over.

Lets give a shout out to Mrs. The King and her awesome TR. For those of you who have not seen the funniest thing in the world visit here please Mrs. The King's TR (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1899615) Its truely a gem. Make sure you go to the bathroom before reading. :thumbsup2

I'm sorry they closed the Disney Store in your area. thats a bummer. :sad2: I was excited to find the shirts because I have a feeling in a few months to a year everything will change and $5.00 shirts will be hard to find there. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing unless you are looking for cheap t-shirts for your Disney trip of course! :lmao:

thanks for the compliments on the yard and on Morgan. Its times like the Birthday party where you realize you must be doing something right. :thumbsup2

[AZMickeyfans]

"If you ain't first, you're last" - Ricky Bobby, Reese Bobby

Folks get used to that one, you'll hear it again and again I'm sure since there will be a lot of firsts on this trip! :lmao:

I decided to post some old school WDW photos mingled in with my plans to make things more interesting. They really have nothing to do with our current vacation but they are fun to look at!

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0053.jpg

Lets get this baby started


Arrival Day

I have said before that we arrive just prior to 4pm and have ME booked. I am hoping we are not rushed to get changed and get to dinner by 8pm that night at Chef Mickey's. I want that to be the kids first experience at WDW since we are not going into the parks that night. shhhh its a surprise.

I'm planning on making Morgan a Minnie Dot dress for dinner that night. I have the fabric. I just need a cute dress pattern so that is on the to do list this weekend. I'm deciding on making a shirt for Jake or finding a cool Mickey one to wear. Probably buy that one. :confused3

Let me put in a disclaimer that should run for the entire length of this PTR. I just learned to sew. I've checked the Disboutique awesome thread and I was inspired. Its fun. I'm intimidated a little though. I have big plans but they dont always work out the way I want to so in my head I might think I want a cute minnie dress but she might end up in t-shirt and shorts. Chances right now are 50/50. :rotfl2:

(speaking of outfits check out this beauty. Ok so I just put the hat on for pictures but I had so many of these 1 piece ensembles in the early 90's. Give a shout out if you had some too! Pic taken at the WL)
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0055.jpg

So, get off the ME bus, get checked in at POP. Hopefully get a top floor room (I need to call and request that today). Go to the room to freshen up and change because our clothes for the dinner will be in my carryon.

Head to the gift shop to get autograph books and pens and catch the bus to the TTC. Wait I mean the MK. Does the bus even go to the TTC? If we wanted to take the Ferry to the Magic Kingdom we cant on an MK day if we take the bus right?

Mickey at the Coral Reef
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0054.jpg

I want the kids to ride the monorail to the Contemporary that night so we might jump on from the MK instead of walking. They would think that is cool to stop inside the hotel.

Have Dinner with Mickey!!! Head back to POP to get to sleep early for a big day ahead of us. Hopefully luggage has arrived!
I remember Planet Hollywood Opening. :thumbsup2

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0061.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0059.jpg


Day 1

Here, Day 1, where its supposed to be all perfect and happy is where my brain gets jumbled already. I have the vacation broken up into 2 parts. Part 1 is pre-MNSSHP. I have Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon to get the 4 big parks in. Part 2 is post-MNSSHP where we do things we missed, hit the water parks, recreation and take it slower and easier. this is all in theory of course.

I dont know why I'm so nuts about this plan but its wiggled itself in my brain and now it cant get out. This should be easy. 2 things keep messing it up. Touringplans.com and CRT. :sad2: You'll understand soon.

Of course we want to try to go with the least amount of crowds. I know October isnt too crowded so I'm not sure I should even be concerning myself with their crowd prediction levels. Its been 8 years since I've seen a WDW October. DL in Oct is insane lately. :scared1: Crazy busy.

So According to Touring PLans.com we should go to AK. There is part of me that really wanted to take them to the MK for the first day however they have been to DL so many times I think they might actually enjoy other parks first. :confused3

After much debate and WDW changing their schedules this weekend I believe we have decided to go to AK.

So AK for the majority of the day and when it closes at 5pm we will head to MK to watch Spectromagic and Wishes at 8pm and 9pm. I think the first day should end with Wishes and since they had just put it back on the schedule and extended the park hours til 9pm (not sure if that is accurate or not) we will be there that night!

Now I need to work on getting Jake to eat better to he can grow so we can all go on Expedition Everest. He is just a hair under 44 inches. I think he will be ok with tennis shoes on.

Speaking of eating good. Anyone remember the all dessert buffet at Ohana? A girl should be this happy every now and then. :lmao:


http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0062.jpg


Day 2

Saturday looks like a good day to be at the MK on all accounts. We will have seen Wishes and Spectro the night before hopefully so we can get there at rope drop to hit the rides. Touringplans.com lists MK day crowd level at 3 so I'm all good with that. :thumbsup2

check out Jeff in front of the castle. :lmao:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0035.jpg



Its a MNSSHP night so if it starts getting crazy after 7pm we will head to EPCOT and do Illumitations and explore some. my kids are really excited to see EPCOT where I worked. I just hope they are not too disappointed! :rotfl: I love it as an adult but did not enjoy it as a child. I believe its gotten better. :thumbsup2

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0063.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0067.jpg

One of the shops where I worked at
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0066.jpg

[AZMickeyfans]

Ricky Bobby: Wait, Dad. Don't you remember the time you told me "If you ain't first, you're last"?
Reese Bobby: Huh? What are you talking about, Son?
Ricky Bobby: That day at school.
Reese Bobby: Oh hell, Son, I was high that day. That doesn't make any sense at all, you can be second, third, fourth... hell you can even be fifth.
Ricky Bobby: What? I've lived my whole life by that!



Day 3

Sunday I have an ADR at Sci-Fi for lunch. I dont want that so I need to cxl it and figure out where to put it back in the schedule.

Sunday is EPCOT til we drop. I'd really like to take the majority of the day to explore Future World. Jake cannot wait to do Test Track. Jeff and Morgan love Soarin' at DCA so that is a must. I know we can spend hours inside The Seas with Nemo and Friends looking in the tanks and the Manatees themselves fascinate me. My kids have never seen one and I hope they fall in love with them just as I do each time. :love:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0065.jpg

With Jeff's love of all things agriculture, he grew up on a farm and his parents, brother and all extended family still farm, I want to sign him up for the Behind the Seeds tour. He said he wasnt interested last time I asked him but I know reading reviews here that he will love it he just wasn't thinking straight. :lmao: I know you dont have to call ahead for that but I think I will so I make sure I fit that in.

Mission Space. sigh. I've never done this. I'm nervous. Is the orange team the tame side? I dont like spinning as I get older and I would hate to scare the heck out of my kids so I would like to do the tamer version and if Jeff and Morgan want to try the wild side they can. Usually I am a try everything once kind of gal but in this case I'm a little worried. I get that ill feeling when I experience G-forces.

Remember those fair rides where you walk up stairs into a rotating tube of death?

You enter the chamber with your family members and other sick strangers looking on at you with horror and twisted delight as you stand with your arms and legs spread out against the side of the wall. The tube starts to rotate and its all fun and games. You can hear the people above laughing at your hair that starts to go up around your head and stick to the wall. Its the moment you know its coming.

Your cheeks start to feel strange and wiggle back and forth. you laugh because somewhere deep inside of you you've been told all your life this kind of ride is supposed to be fun. Then the floor drops. :scared1: For a second it is fun. You are suspended, you forget drool is coming out the side of your mouth and you cannot turn your head to the right or the left, its plastered to the wall. then it doesn't stop. It never ends. Your stomach doesnt like it. It protests but there is no way you are going to throw up because by the time it gets out it will come back and hit you in the face and stick to you just like the drool does. The floor finally starts to come up. The ride slows. You get your hearing back slowly. Everyone is yelling that you all look terrible. You can't walk out of there but there are 25 strangers looking from above so you muster up dignity to try to walk. Your hair is a mess, you wipe away the drool, you want to kill whoever convinced you to go on this ride.

This is how I picture Mission Space.

(Speaking of hair, I'm not a fan of the Swan and Dolphin, they are pretty but not Disney enough for me but one day after a recent perm my friend said my hair was a large as the Dolphin fountain so we drove over to get a specific picture. Here it is)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0064.jpg

Lets move on from that ride talk to talk of food. :rolleyes1 :scared:

We dont have any ADR's for EPCOT that day. I keep looking at menu's deciding if Jake will eat anything at all. What I've decided on is to just eat our way around EPCOT. No set meals. Eat when we are hungry. this will be nice when we get to the WS part of the day! :thumbsup2 :lmao:

I love the queue back to the Oh Canada show

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0051.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0052.jpg

We might top the night off with Illumiations if the kids want to see it again and a margarita in Mexico! :thumbsup2 That is my favorite viewing spot! You have to get there early to get a table which usually means more Margaritas, chips and salsa. :rolleyes1 Tough I know.

Day 4

Monday should be the DHS day. Cinderella threw a wrench into that one. I tried to get Cindy's breakfast Fri, Sat and Sun but got it for Monday morning. I was of course hoping for the 8am. Never got it for any other day either. So, we have CRT on this day. No rope drop at DHS. By this point we would have been at MK on Fri evening, all day Sat and so I dont want to spend much time here today. So we will head to the MK to eat breakfast.

Why am I not more excited about this? :confused3 Morgan is and I know this might be the last year she is so giddy about the princesses. she has already outgrown so many things. Maybe I'm a little sad too. :confused3 Or maybe I want to be at DHS all day instead of Cinderellas. :lmao: :lmao:

Ok I need to get out of the Cinderella Funk.

So Cinderellas in the morning and then we will head to DHS.

I'm not certain we want to do Sci-Fi on this day. Since we dont have many TS meals we are spreading them out. Our family could really make a day of eating popcorn and churros in the parks! :lmao: We wont have the whole day here like origionally planned.

Fantasmic! is on at 7:30 and I'm hoping to get to that as well. We are nuts about Fantasmic! at DL and I hope that the kids like this one. I prefer DL's version. I know Jake will miss the Peter Pan sequence but its a new experience and I'm sure we will have a blast. Either show you prefer its still great!

This picture was taken on CM preview day for ToT. :scared1: the guy in front of us kept saying how sand bags exploded the day before. :scared1: I asked the Imagineer if that was true and he replied "Yes, why do you think we test you guys first":scared1: Then he gave me the evil ToT laugh :scared1: My stomach was rolling, I think I called my mom, I think I tried to use the chicken exit which they block during CM tests (this might be an exaggeration:rolleyes1 )Once you are in you cannot get out. To say the least I was SCARED WITLESS. And i didnt mean Witless. :lmao:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0057.jpg

[AZMickeyfans]

Yeah I also learned how to make a Table of contents in my first post!!!

[AZMickeyfans]

To Do List

This list will ebb and flow like the seas.

1. Order Photopass

2. Cancel Reservation at AsSports

3. Call and request upper level floor lakeview at POP (with private Jacuzzi and Butler of course. ;)

4. Cancel BBB.

5. Change Sci-Fi.

6. Collect pre 1982 pennies for penny press. Thanks to Kathleen for the tip about the pre 1982 pennies who has a report here Kathleens pre-trippie (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1860745) and her son Jacob has one here Jacob's pre-trippie here (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1883052). I need to put them in M&M containers too.

7. Get change for the laundry machine and buy and measure dry detergent into snack size ziplock bags for easy laundry.

8. Sew outfits!

9. Sew costumes! More on this to come.

10. Make photocopies and pictures of all ticket media.

11. Get more memory sticks for my camera and get mini-DV's for video camera.

12. Buy another pair of Reef sandals for the kids and I.



Thats all I can think of now. Feel free to add to my list for me!! :lmao:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Your plans are looking great and I am loving all your old Disney stories, too funny, especially the one about TOT.

[AZMickeyfans]

Your plans are looking great and I am loving all your old Disney stories, too funny, especially the one about TOT.

Thank you! That was a crazy experience. I'm sure they were kidding about the sand bags. Right? They had to have been? :lmao: I think I still get a little nervous feeling when I go on ToT just because of what that guy said. :lmao:

[tinkermell]

Hey Shawna!

Just caught up on everything.

Morgan's party was so cute. What a great idea!! I'm sure it will be one that most of the girls will always remember! And Morgan's concern for Sally was so sweet. You're are raising a very special girl!

The sago palm pictures..................................uh hum! :eek: :rolleyes1 :rotfl: Your yard is gorgeous by the way. Why am I not surprised?:rolleyes1

Geesh I'm trying to remember everything.

I went on Mission to Mars! And that was only a few years ago. So if I can do it, so can you. :snooty: And at the time I did it, there wasn't a mamby pamby alternate choice!! :laughing: But........................I got my 24 year old son on it, and it made him sick. :sick: I felt so bad afterwards. :sad2: So all teasing aside, do whatever makes you comfortable. :thumbsup2

Is Morgan going to be Jasmine with blonde hair? Or are you going to get her a wig? What is Jake's final decision for a costume? Did you tell us already, and I forgot? How about you and Jeff? I think my whole family are going as Super Heroes to DL. This should be good. :lmao: But not Dave and I. We are good to go with a light up hat or something. I know.............that makes us party poopers, but at our age.........whatever. Our enjoyment will be watching everyone else!

I know there was something else I wanted to say. Oh well.

Keep up the the great report. :thumbsup2

[tinkermell]

I remember now.

You should check out if they still do the Mickey glitter and confetti haircuts on Main Street for Jake. Somewhere on the DIS, there were even pictures of grown men getting their haircuts with it. :rotfl:

When we were at DL last June, they had the perfect headbands for Jasmine for sale near Adventure Land. I'm not sure how you could get one before you leave, if they still have them. :confused3 Or maybe they sell the same ones at WDW, if you are willing to wait. :confused3 Good luck!

I love all of the old pictures. I'm certainly not an authority, but you will see alot of changes on this trip. Especially in the growth of the trees and shrubs. :love:

[kathleen27]

I decided to post some old school WDW photos mingled in with my plans to make things more interesting. They really have nothing to do with our current vacation but they are fun to look at!

I have said before that we arrive just prior to 4pm and have ME booked. I am hoping we are not rushed to get changed and get to dinner by 8pm that night at Chef Mickey's. I want that to be the kids first experience at WDW since we are not going into the parks that night. shhhh its a surprise.

I'm planning on making Morgan a Minnie Dot dress for dinner that night. I have the fabric. I just need a cute dress pattern so that is on the to do list this weekend. I'm deciding on making a shirt for Jake or finding a cool Mickey one to wear. Probably buy that one. :confused3

Let me put in a disclaimer that should run for the entire length of this PTR. I just learned to sew. I've checked the Disboutique awesome thread and I was inspired. Its fun. I'm intimidated a little though. I have big plans but they dont always work out the way I want to so in my head I might think I want a cute minnie dress but she might end up in t-shirt and shorts. Chances right now are 50/50. :rotfl2:

(speaking of outfits check out this beauty. Ok so I just put the hat on for pictures but I had so many of these 1 piece ensembles in the early 90's. Give a shout out if you had some too! Pic taken at the WL)
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0055.jpg

I want the kids to ride the monorail to the Contemporary that night so we might jump on from the MK instead of walking. They would think that is cool to stop inside the hotel.

The old photos are great. :thumbsup2
I had a few of those outfits too. :lmao:
I hadn't thought of them in ages.

I still haven't decided on costumes yet, but we had a long talk about it this morning. One possiblility is Minnie. I have been looking for a Minnie dress or preferrably a skirt, but I haven't seen anything I like. I thought about making one, but that might be a disaster. :eek:

Riding the monorail is a great idea, as a kid I alway wanted to get off the monorail when we passed through. Chef Mickey's will be a really nice surprise, and a great start to the trip!


Mission Space. sigh. I've never done this. I'm nervous. Is the orange team the tame side? I dont like spinning as I get older and I would hate to scare the heck out of my kids so I would like to do the tamer version and if Jeff and Morgan want to try the wild side they can. Usually I am a try everything once kind of gal but in this case I'm a little worried. I get that ill feeling when I experience G-forces.

Mission Space :scared1:
I did not feel right after that ride. Back before there was a choice.
I think green side is the tame one :confused: , but there are big signs explaining the differences and you are actually handed a "ticket" with your color so there is no chance of getting on the wrong one.
Last trip we went on the tame side. Jacob was so mad at me. :mad:
He thought it was lame. We are discussing who will go on which side next time. :rolleyes1


This picture was taken on CM preview day for ToT. :scared1: the guy in front of us kept saying how sand bags exploded the day before. :scared1: I asked the Imagineer if that was true and he replied "Yes, why do you think we test you guys first":scared1: Then he gave me the evil ToT laugh :scared1: My stomach was rolling, I think I called my mom, I think I tried to use the chicken exit which they block during CM tests (this might be an exaggeration:rolleyes1 )Once you are in you cannot get out. To say the least I was SCARED WITLESS. And i didnt mean Witless. :lmao:

:scared1: :lmao:

Yeah I also learned how to make a Table of contents in my first post!!!

:cheer2: Yeah!

To Do List

This list will ebb and flow like the seas.

6. Collect pre 1982 pennies for penny press. Thanks to Kathleen for the tip about the pre 1982 pennies who has a report here Kathleens pre-trippie (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1860745) and her son Jacob has one here Jacob's pre-trippie here (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1883052). I need to put them in M&M containers too.

9. Sew costumes! More on this to come.

10. Make photocopies and pictures of all ticket media.

Thats all I can think of now. Feel free to add to my list for me!! :lmao:

Thanks for the mention.

OK you just added to my list. I kept thinking I should photocopy my MNSSHP tickets but it hasn't even made it on the list, but now its done. Thanks!

I can't wait to hear about your costumes! Good Luck with the sewing.


And the plans sound good! It really is tough to make those decisions though. :laughing:

[AZMickeyfans]

Hey Shawna!

Just caught up on everything.

Morgan's party was so cute. What a great idea!! I'm sure it will be one that most of the girls will always remember! And Morgan's concern for Sally was so sweet. You're are raising a very special girl!

The sago palm pictures..................................uh hum! :eek: :rolleyes1 :rotfl: Your yard is gorgeous by the way. Why am I not surprised?:rolleyes1

Geesh I'm trying to remember everything.

I went on Mission to Mars! And that was only a few years ago. So if I can do it, so can you. :snooty: And at the time I did it, there wasn't a mamby pamby alternate choice!! :laughing: But........................I got my 24 year old son on it, and it made him sick. :sick: I felt so bad afterwards. :sad2: So all teasing aside, do whatever makes you comfortable. :thumbsup2

Is Morgan going to be Jasmine with blonde hair? Or are you going to get her a wig? What is Jake's final decision for a costume? Did you tell us already, and I forgot? How about you and Jeff? I think my whole family are going as Super Heroes to DL. This should be good. :lmao: But not Dave and I. We are good to go with a light up hat or something. I know.............that makes us party poopers, but at our age.........whatever. Our enjoyment will be watching everyone else!

I know there was something else I wanted to say. Oh well.

Keep up the the great report. :thumbsup2

I'll have to decide on the wig. Honestly, I see her getting very hot and irritated in that wig but she said she wanted me to dye her hair black. :lmao: I believe a wig would be easier!

I need your help on my costume. I am about to post the MNSSHP day and our costume decisions. I wanted to talk to you about mine first since i have to make it. :scared1:

I believe I am with your son on Mission Space. :scared1: I might get brave but maybe I should wait til the end of the night so if i do get sick I can head straight to the hotel. :eek:
I remember now.

You should check out if they still do the Mickey glitter and confetti haircuts on Main Street for Jake. Somewhere on the DIS, there were even pictures of grown men getting their haircuts with it. :rotfl:

When we were at DL last June, they had the perfect headbands for Jasmine for sale near Adventure Land. I'm not sure how you could get one before you leave, if they still have them. :confused3 Or maybe they sell the same ones at WDW, if you are willing to wait. :confused3 Good luck!

I love all of the old pictures. I'm certainly not an authority, but you will see alot of changes on this trip. Especially in the growth of the trees and shrubs. :love:


I'm back and forth between canceling BBB altogether for Morgan and Jake or just moving it to another day. I'm leaning more toward canceling it. I asked Morgan in a round about way and she was like "eh". I hate to pay that money for "eh" :lmao:

Of course it could have been her mood at the time. :rolleyes1


Thanks for the headband tip. I might make one but if we will be on the lookout ahead of time too in Adventure land. Seems like they all have the same merchandise now don't they?

[AZMickeyfans]

The old photos are great. :thumbsup2
I had a few of those outfits too. :lmao:
I hadn't thought of them in ages.

Yeah! An acknowledgement of the outfits! They were sexy weren't they? I believe the earlier Aladdin breakfast outfit is a one piece but a "dress up" outfit. :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

I still haven't decided on costumes yet, but we had a long talk about it this morning. One possiblility is Minnie. I have been looking for a Minnie dress or preferrably a skirt, but I haven't seen anything I like. I thought about making one, but that might be a disaster. :eek:

I am starting on the dress today. I am using a Lizzie McGuire pattern to make a cute halter dress out of Minnie dot fabric with a yellow bow in the middle and black trip around the bottom. Wish me luck. :eek:

Riding the monorail is a great idea, as a kid I alway wanted to get off the monorail when we passed through. Chef Mickey's will be a really nice surprise, and a great start to the trip!

My kids always want to ride the monorail at DL but we rarely do. I would love to have time to hop a bus to EPCOT and take the monorail all the way to the contemporary. They would freak out with excitement knowing there is a "station" where we have to switch monorails. :lmao: Its like Monorail heaven. :cloud9:



Mission Space :scared1:
I did not feel right after that ride. Back before there was a choice.
I think green side is the tame one :confused: , but there are big signs explaining the differences and you are actually handed a "ticket" with your color so there is no chance of getting on the wrong one.
Last trip we went on the tame side. Jacob was so mad at me. :mad:
He thought it was lame. We are discussing who will go on which side next time. :rolleyes1

Ok this totally flashed me back to a movie sceen where they were unclear which ripcord to pull in a parachute and it was funny. I cant remember the movie or who was in it but I promise I had a flashback of faceless actors arguing as they fell from the sky. :lmao: This will be me in line. Is the green one tame? Or the orange one? Which one man? As I grab the poor CM by the shrit collar and lift him off the floor in my fright! :rotfl2:



:scared1: :lmao:



:cheer2: Yeah!



Thanks for the mention.

No problem! :thumbsup2

OK you just added to my list. I kept thinking I should photocopy my MNSSHP tickets but it hasn't even made it on the list, but now its done. Thanks!

I can't wait to hear about your costumes! Good Luck with the sewing.


And the plans sound good! It really is tough to make those decisions though. :laughing:

We need to just go around looking at To Do lists so we cover our tracks huh? :lmao:

I told Jeff that he needs to help me make some of the plans, afterall he did work there too. :rolleyes1 He said he trusts me. For some reason I see him getting up and questioning why we are going here or why didnt we eat enough in the TS restaurants etc. I warned him he has no right to complain if he doesnt participate now!!! :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

[The Marsons]

I did the tame version of Mission Space and felt ok, although while in line we were told that someone had been ill during the ride and it would be 10mins before we would get on:scared1:

Leave it till later on in the day if you suffer with motion sickness, it's not worth feeling ill all day for, especially during the heat!:thumbsup2

[AZMickeyfans]

Day 5

This is a sleep in day because we have MNSSHP tickets that night!!! I cannot tell you how excited I am for the party. We LOVE Halloween. :love:

I'll post some old Halloween costumes from years past.

This was Morgan's first walking costume. I made it for her. :sad2: You see why I should be worried. I had to pin construction paper words on her that say BOO because no one could tell she was a ghost. :lmao: It was also the first and only non-Disney costume we had. :sad2: Look how frightened she is of me. :rotfl2:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0012.jpg

So we plan on sleeping in and taking it easy. I'm on the fence about booking an Ohana breakfast this morning. Might defeat the sleeping in purpose. Jake and I are morning people. Morgan and Jeff are not. If Jake and I get up early we can head to breakfast at POP and hang at the pool. Thats why I dont want anything set in stone so I dont have to wake up the beasties (Jeff and Morgan) because we plan on staying up late for the party.

However after they get up I would like to take this day to do some touring of the resorts and recreation. We'll go check out the Poly first most likely.

the reason for this is simple. Jeff worked there, nope thats not it. Its cupcakes people. Cupcakes. :cloud9:

See, I dream about the Humongous Cupcakes! They had one of those popcorn type carts selling them back in Toon Town years ago. They also had them in EPCOT. I sent out some friends in the past few years to do some recon work and they all come back with the same results. The cupcakes are at the POLY. Captain Cooks to be exact and no where else.

Now if you are privy to any other information, lurkers included in this, please let me know of any other locations of these fabulous treats of delight.

Everytime I see this I think of my beloved cupcakes

Lazy Sunday skit (http://www.nbc.com/Saturday_Night_Live/video/clips/chronicles-of-narnia-lazy-sunday/2921/)

:rotfl2: :rotfl2:

I'm not sure I can hold out til Day 5 for my cupcakes but even if I'd had 10 by now this is deemed a cupcake day. :thumbsup2

What was I thinking on the makeup???? Oh, thats right she wanted more and I figured its Halloween, WHY NOT????!!!!
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0011.jpg

We will also hit the Sea Racers. I always love riding in the boats. Its like being in a jet ski with a little more security. Not that I dont mind jet skis, Jeff does, but that is another story. :lmao:


I have also thought about parasailing today too. Time might get away from us because I would like to get back to POP, change and be at the MK dressed in costume at 4pm. I dont want to hurry through any of it so parasailing may have to wait.

COSTUME THEME

Drum Roll please.......




ALADDIN!!!!

Yes, after much speculation, arguing, moving in and out of the house by children, Jerry Springer type family meetings with chairs thrown to decide on a theme (ok another exaggeration) the two kids finally agreed! :worship:

We had been going round and round on this. I was starting to feel like that ride at the fair. :scared:

So Morgan will be Jasmine

Jake will be Aladdin

Jeff was going to be Jafar but we decided that might be too hot so I believe we are going with a palace guard.

I might be carpet or find a belly dancing outfit (minus the belly) and be one of Jasmine's ladies in waiting. There really are no other girls in Aladdin. The kids want me to be Raja. Not sure how I will pull that off. :confused3 :lmao: I'm going to consult with a sewing and costume making expert, Tinkermell, on the Carpet costume she did. I have an idea on how it might work.

Here was a costume picture of me in 1993.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/scan0049.jpg

Other family halloween pictures.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/DSC00529.jpg

So if Carpet doesnt work out I'll need other Aladdin suggestions for myself. Throw them out there if you have any!!!

Between 4 and 7 we are planning on eating and hitting a few rides. We will be in our costumes then and I'm hoping others will too. I dont want to change in the parks. I've heard at 4pm you should start seeing adults in costume so that is what I'm going by. If not who cares I wont see any of them again!!

As soon as the party starts we plan on doing everything party related and not worrying about the rides at this point. I have heard the River Boat is spectacular during the party though. We want to do party specific activities. I cannot wait!!!!

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/DSC01645.jpg

I forgot about the Thomas and the Superman costumes not being Disney. Oh well. Cute enough anyway, check out Morgan's facial expressions as she portrays the White Witch from Chronicals of Narnia:scared1: :rotfl2:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/DSC01985-1.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/DSC01987-1.jpg

If anyone has some not to be missed things to do at MNSSHP please let me know! I cannot wait! :cool1:

[AZMickeyfans]

I did the tame version of Mission Space and felt ok, although while in line we were told that someone had been ill during the ride and it would be 10mins before we would get on:scared1:

Leave it till later on in the day if you suffer with motion sickness, it's not worth feeling ill all day for, especially during the heat!:thumbsup2



:scared1: :scared1: :scared1: :scared1:


and thanks for popping over!

[mrsksomeday]

Thanks for saying something about the riverboat during MNSSHP, I had never heard anything about it. We might have to check it out. You sound like you have great plans!! I can't wait to see the costumes, you had some great ones in years past!

[AZMickeyfans]

Thanks for saying something about the riverboat during MNSSHP, I had never heard anything about it. We might have to check it out. You sound like you have great plans!! I can't wait to see the costumes, you had some great ones in years past!

I read somewhere that its "spooky". I'm assuming not really spooky but a halloween themed ride. Maybe a review on the web somewhere. Anyway, it sounded really cool. These are the neat things I want to look for too when I'm at the party. Something different. :thumbsup2

Thanks for the compliments on the pictures. I need to go get some more memory cards so I have basically unlimited amount of pictures at WDW. I bought 2 2GB memory cards from Costco the other day but I'm thinking I want to get another 2 pack from there. They were only $27!! I love Costco.

[AZMickeyfans]

Day 6

This was to be Blizzard Beach day but now has been changed to Typhoon Lagoon. If we are not too wiped out we will head to AK for EMH in the evening. I've heard that is a good one! :thumbsup2

Jeff is deathly afraid of water parks. he got stuck in the YC water slide one time and does not want to go into any ever again. Forcing will be in order. Morgan and I are water park thrill seekers! I cannot wait.

I've been talking nonstop about us all going in Shark Reef. How its tame and no sharks can actually eat you (A big worry for Jake) I remember that as being a great experience and I would love for them to do it too. I also want to do that Ummmm I cant remember what its called but where you get to swim with the sharks for a longer period of time.

I'm too lazy to look it up now. :lmao: I believe its $20. Has anyone done this? I know I'll be the only one in my family to enjoy this adventure but it looked like fun. Sort of snorkeling, sort of scuba diving.

Ohh, add to list, waterproof camera purchase. :thumbsup2

Day 7

We've changed this to a lazy day at Downtown Disney and rescheduled the Pirate Cruise for a later date and location. I think some mid trip shopping is in order here.

[Tnkrbelle565]

Fun trip report!!! You guys are really into Halloween huh??? That's so fun!!! I'm very curious as to what is going on on the Riverboat during MNSSHP. As always, the Riverboat will be rehabed again during our trip this year (they rehab it the same week every year).

[AZMickeyfans]

Fun trip report!!! You guys are really into Halloween huh??? That's so fun!!! I'm very curious as to what is going on on the Riverboat during MNSSHP. As always, the Riverboat will be rehabed again during our trip this year (they rehab it the same week every year).

:welcome: Yep, we really get into the spirit here. We have a neighborhood party in our driveway each year with Chili and Soups and Halloween desserts and tons of decorations. Its so much fun.

[AZMickeyfans]

Oh, Prayers and hugs to anyone reading who is in the path of Gustav. Please stay safe! :hug:

I know its not a fun holiday for the people in the path of the storm. :grouphug:

[AZMickeyfans]

Happy Labor Day and Happy September which means

NEXT MONTH WE GO TO DISNEY!!!

:dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer::dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer:
:dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

I love all your past costumes, it is so fun that the entire family dresses up. MNSSHP always sounds like a lot of fun, I bet you will have a blast. :thumbsup2

[tmkinney]

Hey, I'm here & caught up and loving your PTR!!! So neat that you put all the pics from the past in there and how cool that you have worked at Disney!!

Love the kids backpacks. And great minds think alike, Rachel & I have the same minnie shirts you got! :)

The birthday party looked awesome! Your children are ADORABLE!!!

You should absolutely be able to make the 8pm CM ressie if your flight gets in at 4:00. Last year we got in at 1:00pm and was at MK by 3:30. We didn't rush either so you should be fine.

As far as MNSSHP, make sure not to miss the Cinderella carriage that you can get your pic made in front of. (We didn't go to this last year, but I did a photopass share and saw some really cute pics with it). My sister-in-law went last year though and they had some awesome face painting done there at the Halloween party. My niece went as Jasmine and they did a really cute painting on her face to go with the costume. I wish we were going to the party but since we only have 5 days we are trying to get everything in. I'm so jealous you are going for 13 days!!!

[AZMickeyfans]

I love all your past costumes, it is so fun that the entire family dresses up. MNSSHP always sounds like a lot of fun, I bet you will have a blast. :thumbsup2

Thanks Lessa! I can't wait. :cool1:

Hey, I'm here & caught up and loving your PTR!!! So neat that you put all the pics from the past in there and how cool that you have worked at Disney!!

Love the kids backpacks. And great minds think alike, Rachel & I have the same minnie shirts you got! :)

The birthday party looked awesome! Your children are ADORABLE!!!

You should absolutely be able to make the 8pm CM ressie if your flight gets in at 4:00. Last year we got in at 1:00pm and was at MK by 3:30. We didn't rush either so you should be fine.

As far as MNSSHP, make sure not to miss the Cinderella carriage that you can get your pic made in front of. (We didn't go to this last year, but I did a photopass share and saw some really cute pics with it). My sister-in-law went last year though and they had some awesome face painting done there at the Halloween party. My niece went as Jasmine and they did a really cute painting on her face to go with the costume. I wish we were going to the party but since we only have 5 days we are trying to get everything in. I'm so jealous you are going for 13 days!!!

Thank you! :goodvibes

I'm hoping everything works out so we are not rushed.

Face painting with a Jasmine theme. Wow. I'll be sure to look out for that. Thank you! The Cinderella Carriage sounds awesome. :thumbsup2 Morgan will flip for that.

[carrieannie]

Subbing Shawna!! :goodvibes
I love your stories! :lmao:

Your leaving the day before we arrive.

[tinkermell]

popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::

Must be sewing up a storm.

Don't forget to post that adorable dress!:flower3:

[AGPrincess]

Great trippie so far! Love the AG doll...your DD looks just like Julie! :cutie: And I love the Halloween costume theme...that is going to be so much fun!

[kathleen27]

Great Halloween costumes.
I love Morgan's white witch expression.

The Alaiddan theme sounds great!
I bet you will get a lot of attention!

The first party is this Friday! :yay:
I hope there are some posts about it soon after.

[toocherie]

I'm subbing in so I can come back and read more later--your kids are SOOO cute (and so is Jeff!)

popcorn::

[AZMickeyfans]

Subbing Shawna!! :goodvibes
I love your stories! :lmao:

Your leaving the day before we arrive.

:welcome: Thanks for reading along! It would have been nice to have met you. Darn. I'm missing so many people by a day or so. I promise I'll stop by your thread to say hi soon!

popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::

Must be sewing up a storm.

Don't forget to post that adorable dress!:flower3:

popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: Here is some more popcorn Melody! :rotfl2: I'll post the dress. I'm working on a Hannah Montana shirt now. Morgan was home sick yesterday and possibly today so I'm using her as a model when she's not laying in bed. :guilty: :lmao:

Great trippie so far! Love the AG doll...your DD looks just like Julie! :cutie: And I love the Halloween costume theme...that is going to be so much fun!

Thanks! We have the Just like Me doll for her but Julie actually looks more like her Just like me doll. :lmao: She's been wanting Julie for a long time so she was so excited to get her. They have been inseperable since the birthday.

Great Halloween costumes.
I love Morgan's white witch expression.

The Alaiddan theme sounds great!
I bet you will get a lot of attention!

The first party is this Friday! :yay:
I hope there are some posts about it soon after.

When I went to take the picture I said "smile" and she replied "I want to look like the White Witch" :lmao: I was almost scared! :scared1: :rotfl2:

I can't wait to hear feedback on the party. Not too long for you. I think there is a 2 day break where you must come on and give me tips before I leave!

I'm subbing in so I can come back and read more later--your kids are SOOO cute (and so is Jeff!)

popcorn::

Thanks for joining in! I'll tell the kids you think they are cute. I wont tell Jeff though, he has a big enough head! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: I wont be able to live with him if I tell him too many ladies think he is cute. :lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

Days 8-13


Ok this is where my pre-trippie gets really vague. On days 8-13 I have no set plans except for dinner at WCC one night.

I'm a planner but I'm also spontaneous so I plan time for spontaneity!:lmao: :lmao:

Since it is the kids first visit I would really like for them to have a say in what we do now. Do they like one park better than the other? spend more time at the water parks or Disney Quest? What about leisurely shopping one day at Downtown Disney? I have tickets for every day but I'm not going to be upset if we dont spend every waking minute in the park. (I hope!) Usually I'm all commando but I planned 13 days so I could take it easy and I fully intend to do that.

I wouldn't mind taking them fishing over at POR, Renting bikes somewhere, going to a campfire and hayride at FW. Speaking of FW, I'm so bummed that horseback riding is age 9 and up. Morgan is obsessed with horses and has never been on one. She's wanting to go. Does anyone know if this is a height thing? She's so tall 56 1/2 inches that she probably is taller than most 9 year olds. I should call but I'm sure the answer would be no. Might be worth a try though.

So until our trip is over I dont have much to report on planning of the 2nd half of our trip. I'm kind of looking forward to it. :)

[AZMickeyfans]

Oh, here is my first dress I've ever made! This is for Chef Mickey's

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010082.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010083.jpg

I'll make a shirt with the same fabric for me. I'm not sure what the boys will be wearing yet. If my shirt doesnt come out I'll be wearing one of my newly purchased t-shirts. :lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

Finally, we are under a month til we go to Disney!


:dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer::dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer::dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer: :dancer:

[Tnkrbelle565]

Oh, here is my first dress I've ever made! This is for Chef Mickey's

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010082.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010083.jpg

I'll make a shirt with the same fabric for me. I'm not sure what the boys will be wearing yet. If my shirt doesnt come out I'll be wearing one of my newly purchased t-shirts. :lmao:



That's your first dress :worship: Fantastic!!!

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Hi Shawna,

WOW! For a first attempt that dress is great! :worship:

I have to say I'm with you on MS :sad2: DS is adamant I go on with him, but I'll only go on the no spin version. I'm such a wuss I've never been on one of those fairground rides (we called it the Rotor) that you described in such detail! :rotfl: DH has said he'll take him on the pukey version.

All the Halloween costumes are great - you really go for it!

Your plans sound great! You'll have loads of fun!

We took them on the pony ride the last trip - I don't think the height will be an issue. To be honest, we were a bit disappointed. It's out at Fort Wilderness, you have to park, get a bus to the other side of the campground (back of beyond as DH called it), after all that, we paid $4 and they got led round a wee paddock once! The pony trek I think is better value but I think that's maybe more for adults/older kids. :confused3

Will need to check if BB is closed when we're there - we have a day there lined up. Though if it is closed it shouldn't be a problem - DS is keen to try the fishing hole at POR!

Keep posting!

Di x

[mrsksomeday]

That dress is adorable!! I can't wait to see what else you come up with!

[tmkinney]

Love the dress! I can't even sew a button on, so I'm impressed!! :worship:

[wdwgirl03]

Hi! I found your PTR in somebody else's report that I've been reading and thought I'd stop by. :wave2: I love your old pictures and the story about you meeting your husband is great! :goodvibes

How exciting that it is going to be your kids' first trip to WDW. You're going to have so much fun and I can't wait to hear more about your trip.

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

The dress is adorable. :thumbsup2

I like that you have some free days planned. Our next family vacation I will need to plan some down time, hopefully it will cut back on the sibling bickering that occurs between me and my brothers. :rotfl:

[The Marsons]

That dress is just amazing! You must be so thrilled. I would pay lots for that in a shop, well done!!

Do you fancy coming over to the UK to make me one???:rotfl:

[AZMickeyfans]

That's your first dress :worship: Fantastic!!!

Thanks! I can't take all the credit. while I did the sewing I kept PMing Tinkermell for advice! She is fabulous with the sewing machine.

Hi Shawna,

WOW! For a first attempt that dress is great! :worship:

I have to say I'm with you on MS :sad2: DS is adamant I go on with him, but I'll only go on the no spin version. I'm such a wuss I've never been on one of those fairground rides (we called it the Rotor) that you described in such detail! :rotfl: DH has said he'll take him on the pukey version.

All the Halloween costumes are great - you really go for it!

Your plans sound great! You'll have loads of fun!

We took them on the pony ride the last trip - I don't think the height will be an issue. To be honest, we were a bit disappointed. It's out at Fort Wilderness, you have to park, get a bus to the other side of the campground (back of beyond as DH called it), after all that, we paid $4 and they got led round a wee paddock once! The pony trek I think is better value but I think that's maybe more for adults/older kids. :confused3

Will need to check if BB is closed when we're there - we have a day there lined up. Though if it is closed it shouldn't be a problem - DS is keen to try the fishing hole at POR!

Keep posting!

Di x

Thank you!

Good for your dh for taking them on the pukey version. :scared: I'm so glad I have another weak stomach friend! :thumbsup2

I'm sad Morgan is a year young for the horse ride for 2 hours because I'm afraid she will be bored on the pony ride. Jake however will probably like it. :lmao:

By the way if you all want to see a really cute Scotish family check out Diane's pre-trippie! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1906913) Its really fun to read! :)

That dress is adorable!! I can't wait to see what else you come up with!

:goodvibes I wouldn't expect too much. :lmao:

Love the dress! I can't even sew a button on, so I'm impressed!! :worship:


I couldn't until January. I took up sewing and cake decorating at Joann's for fun. :goodvibes Thanks!

[AZMickeyfans]

Hi! I found your PTR in somebody else's report that I've been reading and thought I'd stop by. :wave2: I love your old pictures and the story about you meeting your husband is great! :goodvibes

How exciting that it is going to be your kids' first trip to WDW. You're going to have so much fun and I can't wait to hear more about your trip.

:welcome: Glad you found your way over to my craziness. The kids are very excited. Now that we are under a month it seems more real to them.

The dress is adorable. :thumbsup2

I like that you have some free days planned. Our next family vacation I will need to plan some down time, hopefully it will cut back on the sibling bickering that occurs between me and my brothers. :rotfl:

But the bickering makes your TR SO MUCH FUN!!!! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Check out Lessa's family love here. Beware of "beautiful princesses" :rotfl2: :rotfl2: Lessa's TR with Tropical Storm Fay! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1905845)
That dress is just amazing! You must be so thrilled. I would pay lots for that in a shop, well done!!

Do you fancy coming over to the UK to make me one???:rotfl:

Thank you! I would love to come to the UK. Send me the ticket!!

[carrieannie]

Oh, here is my first dress I've ever made! This is for Chef Mickey's

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010082.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r149/Jsstrube/P1010083.jpg

I'll make a shirt with the same fabric for me. I'm not sure what the boys will be wearing yet. If my shirt doesnt come out I'll be wearing one of my newly purchased t-shirts. :lmao:

That is beautiful!!! great job!!! :worship:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

But the bickering makes your TR SO MUCH FUN!!!! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Check out Lessa's family love here. Beware of "beautiful princesses" :rotfl2: :rotfl2: Lessa's TR with Tropical Storm Fay! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1905845)


:laughing: Thanks for pimping out my TR. You are so sweet! :hug:

[AZMickeyfans]

That is beautiful!!! great job!!! :worship:

Thank you!:goodvibes

:laughing: Thanks for pimping out my TR. You are so sweet! :hug:

Its what I do! Pimpin' :cool2:

[tinkermell]

Shawna, I am humbled by your praise, but I really didn't help that much. You really did an AWESOME job for your first attempt. I'm thinking that with your cake decorating and sewing, you are the next Martha on the horizon!! :flower3:

DIS people out there..............you should request to see her cakes that she just learned how to make. They are incredible!!! :worship:

[AZMickeyfans]

Shawna, I am humbled by your praise, but I really didn't help that much. You really did an AWESOME job for your first attempt. I'm thinking that with your cake decorating and sewing, you are the next Martha on the horizon!! :flower3:

DIS people out there..............you should request to see her cakes that she just learned how to make. They are incredible!!! :worship:

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: Whatever!

But thanks! :goodvibes

[AZMickeyfans]

I just did some changing around and moved our Pirate Cruise towards the end of the Vacation. pirate: I wanted some more downtime after the party and something fun and different at the end. Luckily it worked out. :thumbsup2

I have the worst headache in the world today. :headache: Morgan is still home sick too :sick:

The girls in this house are not doing well. :sad2:

[tinkermell]

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: Whatever!

But thanks! :goodvibes
You are but too modest!

You really should post one or two of them you know. :thumbsup2

[tinkermell]

I just did some changing around and moved our Pirate Cruise towards the end of the Vacation. pirate: I wanted some more downtime after the party and something fun and different at the end. Luckily it worked out. :thumbsup2

I have the worst headache in the world today. :headache: Morgan is still home sick too :sick:

The girls in this house are not doing well. :sad2: :sad2: :sad2: :sad2:

Get well soon!

[toocherie]

I wanna see the cakes! Please please please please please?

Ok, you can wait until your headache goes away (which I hope it will soon!)

Cheryl

[irky416]

I love the dress!!

Feel better!

[Alysa]

The dress is awesome - can you make me one too? ;)
I would love to see cake pics too!

[AZMickeyfans]

To Do List


1. Order Photopass------DONE

2. Cancel Reservation at AsSports

3. Call and request upper level floor lakeview at POP (with private Jacuzzi and Butler of course. ;)

4. Cancel BBB.

5. Change Sci-Fi.

6. Collect pre 1982 pennies for penny press. Thanks to Kathleen for the tip about the pre 1982 pennies who has a report here Kathleens pre-trippie (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1860745) and her son Jacob has one here Jacob's pre-trippie here (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1883052). I need to put them in M&M containers too.

7. Get change for the laundry machine and buy and measure dry detergent into snack size ziplock bags for easy laundry.

8. Sew outfits!

9. Sew costumes! More on this to come.

10. Make photocopies and pictures of all ticket media.

11. Get more memory sticks for my camera and get mini-DV's for video camera.

12. Buy another pair of Reef sandals for the kids and I.



Well, I accomplished one thing off my list. :rolleyes1 :lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

:sad2: :sad2: :sad2:

Get well soon!

Thanks! :goodvibes I feel a little better now. Jeff came home to get Jake from school and take him to football practice. Well, he told me to take a quick nap. I am so anti nap I didnt think I could but I fell asleep for about a half an hour and woke up feeling better. The medicine finally kicked in.

Morgan is much the same but the new cough meds seem to be working better. Time will tell how the night will do. I hope she sleeps better tonight. :cloud9:

I wanna see the cakes! Please please please please please?

Ok, you can wait until your headache goes away (which I hope it will soon!)

Cheryl

:lmao: They are nothing special. Tinkermell, flatters me! :)

I love the dress!!

Feel better!

Thanks! :goodvibes

The dress is awesome - can you make me one too? ;)
I would love to see cake pics too!

Thanks, I'm surprised how it turned out. Hopefully it doesnt fall off her during dinner! :scared1: :lmao:

[staley7580]

I KNEW I saw some green lights on!!! :lmao: Come on now... I am having some sort of midlife crisis.... Take me with you???:flower3:

[AZMickeyfans]

I KNEW I saw some green lights on!!! :lmao: Come on now... I am having some sort of midlife crisis.... Take me with you???:flower3:

You can come of course BUT having your dh buy you a minivan when you are pregnant with twins is NOT a midlife crisis my dear. :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Check my tag for further reference.....:cool2:

[tinkermell]

No matter how many times I try to wrap quotes, I can't.

So my reply back to you is "Baloney!"

[kathleen27]

Wow!!!
The dress is Amazing!!!

[sameyeyam]

WOW Shawna! The dress is awesome!!!!!!!!!!! I'm getting so excited for you guys. The kids are just going to love it...somehow I'm sensing your DL trips will become WDW trips from now on!

[Alex2kMommy]

Oh, here is my first dress I've ever made! This is for Chef Mickey's

I'll make a shirt with the same fabric for me. I'm not sure what the boys will be wearing yet. If my shirt doesnt come out I'll be wearing one of my newly purchased t-shirts. :lmao:
I think you should make the boys red shorts with two ginormous yellow buttons on them. :lmao:

Seriously though, love Morgan's dress! :thumbsup2

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Hope you all feel better soon - we were all loaded with the cold last week - I got it first, but I like to share!
Good going on the Photopass pre order! :thumbsup2
I want to get the photo where they make it look like you're floating over Cinderella's castle! :goodvibes

[staley7580]

You can come of course BUT having your dh buy you a minivan when you are pregnant with twins is NOT a midlife crisis my dear. :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Check my tag for further reference.....:cool2:

:lmao: :lmao: Yes it is. ;)

[AZMickeyfans]

No matter how many times I try to wrap quotes, I can't.

So my reply back to you is "Baloney!"

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

Wow!!!
The dress is Amazing!!!

:goodvibes Thanks!

WOW Shawna! The dress is awesome!!!!!!!!!!! I'm getting so excited for you guys. The kids are just going to love it...somehow I'm sensing your DL trips will become WDW trips from now on!

Thanks Alison, I'm really excited too!

I think you should make the boys red shorts with two ginormous yellow buttons on them. :lmao:

Seriously though, love Morgan's dress! :thumbsup2

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: Oh yeah, I can TOTALLY see Jeff's reaction to that idea. It would be fun to make as a joke though.......hmmm. :idea: If I have extra time. ;) :rotfl2:

Hope you all feel better soon - we were all loaded with the cold last week - I got it first, but I like to share!
Good going on the Photopass pre order! :thumbsup2
I want to get the photo where they make it look like you're floating over Cinderella's castle! :goodvibes

Sorry about the cold.:hug: What photo are we talking about? Floating over Cinderellas Castle? For Reals? I have not seen that one yet! Proof woman! Or are you trying to make me look like a fool! I see me going up to the photopass person requesting the "floating over Cinderellas Castle photo" and he thinks I'm on drugs or I want to be Tinkerbell. :lmao:

:lmao: :lmao: Yes it is. ;)

No, its NOT. :lmao: Minivan drivin' moms RULE!

[Mrs. The King]

Popping in to sub. Will vampire reply later :cool2:

[AZMickeyfans]

Popping in to sub. Will vampire reply later :cool2:

and this my friends is the FUNNIEST LADY ON THE DIS! Go check out her TR's

Thanks for stopping by! We've become eachother's vampires. I'm sure there is an inappropriate joke in there somewhere its just too bright outside for me to find it! :lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

So they did it. I knew they would.

Who is they? Disney. They came out with a room only code. Remember a few pages back I was debating that CBR stay so Jeff and Jake could do the whole pirate pool thing??? Well, they just came out with one.

There is a catch. There always is.

It ends Oct 11. I was really hoping to stay there the last couple nights of our trip. The way the code is now I would have to leave, go to CBR then come back to POP. Way too much confusion with reservations I'm thinking. PLus we are on a package with POP so I'm not sure how that would work.

Sigh.

I dont want to go in the beginning because we wont be around the pool much. Commando in the parks I'm sure at first.

Another sigh.

Oh well, next time right? :thumbsup2

[kaysmommie]

Hi Shawna,
I just hopped over from my trippie. I can't believe I'm late to this pretrip, it's awsome. What a gorgeous family you have. Our kids sound alot alike. My DS4 is very shy and DD8 is very girl and a dancer like yours, she lives for dance class. Also I have been a SAHM for 8 years. Now if I could just get DH to love Disney as much as yours. He likes it but doesn't love it :sad2: .

Anyway we will be there at the same time. Our dates are October 4-12th. We are staying 8 nights at CBR, was booked at BC and then WL but same as you the checkbook said downgrade to a moderate. It's alright though at least well be at Disney. I see your debating CBR too. I hadn't heard of this new room only code! I already have passes but booked the pakage last month because I neede to buy tickets to get the discount. Well I'm off to do the math on which will work our better, LOL. Anyway we stayed at Pop this past march and was a fun place and my kids loved it almost as much as Poly. My only problem was the small rooms but hey they were very clean! I would go back there though. Anyway onto read your plans and ADR's, maybe well be at the some of the same parks.

[AZMickeyfans]

Hi Shawna,
I just hopped over from my trippie. I can't believe I'm late to this pretrip, it's awsome. What a gorgeous family you have. Our kids sound alot alike. My DS4 is very shy and DD8 is very girl and a dancer like yours, she lives for dance class. Also I have been a SAHM for 8 years. Now if I could just get DH to love Disney as much as yours. He likes it but doesn't love it :sad2: .

Anyway we will be there at the same time. Our dates are October 4-12th. We are staying 8 nights at CBR, was booked at BC and then WL but same as you the checkbook said downgrade to a moderate. It's alright though at least well be at Disney. I see your debating CBR too. I hadn't heard of this new room only code! I already have passes but booked the pakage last month because I neede to buy tickets to get the discount. Well I'm off to do the math on which will work our better, LOL. Anyway we stayed at Pop this past march and was a fun place and my kids loved it almost as much as Poly. My only problem was the small rooms but hey they were very clean! I would go back there though. Anyway onto read your plans and ADR's, maybe well be at the some of the same parks.

Wow! We have mirror families!! :thumbsup2

What night are you going to MNSSHP? I didnt see the date in your TR. If its a secret I totally understand. We will be there Oct 7.

[kaysmommie]

Wow! We have mirror families!! :thumbsup2

What night are you going to MNSSHP? I didnt see the date in your TR. If its a secret I totally understand. We will be there Oct 7.

Funny I just checked your date for MNSSHP, but we are going on the 9th, LOL. I was trying to get CRT on Monday the 6th but couldn't get until the following Saturday. So we will be at HS that morning until afternoon. We also have WCC booked on the Friday the 10th, what night is your dinner there? Looks like most of our parks don't match up other than HS so far. Well if ended up switching to CBR then our kids would have some new friends to hang out with at the new pool ;) . I'm trying to decide if I switch my package to room only. Looks like I would save about $200 but then I can't book the dining plan but could just pay OOP and it would be almost the same. I really don't need tickets since we have 7 day hopper with waterparks. I'm so bummed about Blizzard beach being closed. I'm one of the few that likes it better than TL. I'm probably going there on Friday if the weather is good.

[AZMickeyfans]

Funny I just checked your date for MNSSHP, but we are going on the 9th, LOL. I was trying to get CRT on Monday the 6th but couldn't get until the following Saturday. So we will be at HS that morning until afternoon. We also have WCC booked on the Friday the 10th, what night is your dinner there? Looks like most of our parks don't match up other than HS so far. Well if ended up switching to CBR then our kids would have some new friends to hang out with at the new pool ;) . I'm trying to decide if I switch my package to room only. Looks like I would save about $200 but then I can't book the dining plan but could just pay OOP and it would be almost the same. I really don't need tickets since we have 7 day hopper with waterparks. I'm so bummed about Blizzard beach being closed. I'm one of the few that likes it better than TL. I'm probably going there on Friday if the weather is good.

WCC is on Friday the 10th too!!! 7pm I think. I dont have my calendar in front of me for exact time. I'm really excited about that one. I'm certain I'll get the huge mason jar because I drink too much coke! :lmao: :thumbsup2

I need to get on the ball with my HS day. I wish that Monday worked out that we could do the entire day there. Darn Cindy! :rotfl: I seriously dont know why I'm so bummed about that one. :confused3 :laughing:

[kaysmommie]

WCC is on Friday the 10th too!!! 7pm I think. I dont have my calendar in front of me for exact time. I'm really excited about that one. I'm certain I'll get the huge mason jar because I drink too much coke! :lmao: :thumbsup2

I need to get on the ball with my HS day. I wish that Monday worked out that we could do the entire day there. Darn Cindy! :rotfl: I seriously dont know why I'm so bummed about that one. :confused3 :laughing:

Our reservation is for 6:30 at WCC so we will see there and maybe run into you at HS on Monday. We have a ressie for Chef Mickey's that night at 5:30 followed by the Grand Gathering fireworks cruise. Se will pobably only sta until 3PM latest. you won't make rope drop to HS but you will be fine if you get after breakfast and get FP's for Toy Story Mania. I'll post my itinerary tonight on my trippie. Of I forgot to tell you the dress you made Morgan is so cute!! Everything I make turns out bad, LOL. Your list of things to do was a great reminder for me of all the stuff I don't have done yet so thanks for that.

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Sorry about the cold. What photo are we talking about? Floating over Cinderellas Castle? For Reals? I have not seen that one yet! Proof woman! Or are you trying to make me look like a fool! I see me going up to the photopass person requesting the "floating over Cinderellas Castle photo" and he thinks I'm on drugs or I want to be Tinkerbell.

Yay, for reals!!! I don't lie about these things!! :rotfl: And I want to be Tinkerbell. :lmao:
DH found the details about it - typically though he can't remember where :rolleyes1
He said you get it done in Epcot, he thinks in the Innoventions area (details, man, we need details!!!!!).
I think if you go to the Photopass website it shows you examples and the 'flying over the castle' is shown. So I've not imagineered it (see what I did there!? :wizard: ) Will hunt around again for it and let you know the details.
But it could be fun if you go up to a Photog and ask them to make you fly over the castle :thumbsup2 See what they say :goodvibes

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Here it is, I didn't dream it!

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1730599&page=2

This gives you a whole list of good places for photo ops!

[kathleen27]

Here it is, I didn't dream it!

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1730599&page=2

This gives you a whole list of good places for photo ops!

Great thread. Thanks for the info!
More photos we must take on our trip! :lmao:

[Mrs. The King]

and this my friends is the FUNNIEST LADY ON THE DIS! Go check out her TR's

Thanks for stopping by! We've become eachother's vampires. I'm sure there is an inappropriate joke in there somewhere its just too bright outside for me to find it! :lmao:

Vampire King reporting for Duty :pixiedust. Ok. How come you did not tell me you had the cutest freaking family! You guys are adorable in your costumes. And you have a fourth degree Disney black belt because of all the cast membership. You have been holding out on me.

I see you have stolen Baloo from my trip report :sad2: I must forgive, because of all the shout outs I got :dance3:

I have never been to MSSHPSSHSHSHHSHSHS (or whatever the Holloween Party is represented) But my Mom was there today and said it is so beautiful and fun. She highly recommends the Headless Horseman ride. It sounds thrilling.


You drooling twirling ride rocks :lmao: :thumbsup2 :lmao: :thumbsup2


Vampire King Out :cool2:

[AZMickeyfans]

Yay, for reals!!! I don't lie about these things!! :rotfl: And I want to be Tinkerbell.
DH found the details about it - typically though he can't remember where
He said you get it done in Epcot, he thinks in the Innoventions area (details, man, we need details!!!!!).
I think if you go to the Photopass website it shows you examples and the 'flying over the castle' is shown. So I've not imagineered it (see what I did there!? ) Will hunt around again for it and let you know the details.
But it could be fun if you go up to a Photog and ask them to make you fly over the castle :thumbsup2 See what they say :goodvibes


No lies! Yes!! My Scotish friend pulls through! I'm impressed. :thumbsup2 Will definitely have to search out this picture op!
Here it is, I didn't dream it!

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1730599&page=2

This gives you a whole list of good places for photo ops!

Yeah Sweet thread! Thanks Diane!

Great thread. Thanks for the info!
More photos we must take on our trip! :lmao:

:thumbsup2

Vampire King reporting for Duty :pixiedust. Ok. How come you did not tell me you had the cutest freaking family! You guys are adorable in your costumes. And you have a fourth degree Disney black belt because of all the cast membership. You have been holding out on me.

I see you have stolen Baloo from my trip report :sad2: I must forgive, because of all the shout outs I got :dance3:

I have never been to MSSHPSSHSHSHHSHSHS (or whatever the Holloween Party is represented) But my Mom was there today and said it is so beautiful and fun. She highly recommends the Headless Horseman ride. It sounds thrilling.


You drooling twirling ride rocks :lmao: :thumbsup2 :lmao: :thumbsup2


Vampire King Out :cool2:

Vampire IN (Is that right? ON? :lmao: )

thanks for the compliments on the family. I do believe we are in the running for the cutest freaking family but we might also have a high place for freakiest family too. It could go either way. :goodvibes

Baloo was nice enough to come and visit my humble little home. :thumbsup2 It does not compare to the Castle the Kings live in but I dust occasionally.

I really do enjoy hearing about your parents as CM's and all the stuff, parking, strollers etc they get as CM's. Brings back memories. :cloud9: I had the cutest couple that worked in my shop in EPCOT during the winters and I picture your parents just like them. :) They were the nicest couple from Virgina I believe and lived in FL in the winter. They said they were the coolest Grandparents on the planet because they work at WDW. Someday I hope to do that too when we are retired. They seemed so happy. :)

Headless Horseman ride???? I must speak with Mother the King. This sounds like so much fun!!! I cannot wait to hear reports. :woohoo:

Thanks for stopping by. I love the edit!!! :lmao: :lmao:

Seriously folks check out Mrs the Kings report its hysterical. :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

[AZMickeyfans]

"It's real nice, I got it at Target. It was on sale" - Ricky Bobby

Unfortunately my plea may not be that easy. I needHELP!!!!


Ok Aladdin is officially OUT. Its been scrapped. Why? Well, I finally after 4 years convinced Morgan to be Alice. IT didnt take much, we just walked into the Disney Store today and I asked her to try on the Alice dress before we bought the Jasmine one. I figured this might be my last shot.

I knew she would make a good Alice. I almost cried. :sad1: She slipped it on over her clothes since there was no changing room. Everyone was remarking on how much she looked like Alice. She never heard them. I was going to assemble the crowd if I needed backup but I didnt. I ever so gently told her to find a mirror. She Gasped. She loved it and said she looked EXACTLY like Alice. Needless to say from that moment on Jasmine was out Alice was in. Before i had time to check with Jake he yelled, "I'll be the White Rabbit!" I said "are you sure" he was more excited about that than Aladdin. :thumbsup2

So we are being Alice in Wonderland.

I thought this would be easy. :sad2: I could throw something not too hot together for Jake as the white rabbit. Jeff as the Mad Hatter would not be too hard. I was to be the Queen of Hearts. I thought I had seen a thousand Adult Queen of Hearts costumes.

Turns out I had.

The kind you see in a seedy Las Vegas Stripper joint. :scared1: :scared1: :scared1: OMG! I can NEVER wear anything like these costumes to the park!

I want something like THIS

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c335/elanya82/DragonCon/2008/SS100511.jpg

Not something like THIS

http://i467.photobucket.com/albums/rr39/velvetntmre/media2.jpg

I cant find it without paying a million bucks. I dont think I could make anything like that. :scared1: I'm so frustrated. I spent that last 2 hours online and all I've come up with would get me kicked out of the Magic Kingdom for sure. :sad2: :sad2: :sad2:

I dont want to spend a ton of money on this so if anyone has any ideas I would LOVE some input.

for the record, dh says it would be worth bailing me out of jail if I wore the shorter version above. :lmao:

[snowwhite325]

I am in love with your PTR :love: You have me laughing uncontrollably...Dad is starting to wonder if there is something wrong with me :lmao:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Oh no, I hope you can find a great Alice themed costume that won't result in people trying to pick you up off the street. :rotfl:

[kaysmommie]

So your DD is being Alice too. I'm sure she will look very cute. Did you look on my trippie I posted 2 other Queen of hearts costume. One is also very short like the one you posted :lmao: . If you find a good Queen of Hreats costume then please send me a link too.

[AZMickeyfans]

I am in love with your PTR :love: You have me laughing uncontrollably...Dad is starting to wonder if there is something wrong with me :lmao:

:lmao: :lmao: Jeff thinks I'm crazy everytime I laugh at the DIS which is about every 5 seconds. :lmao:

Oh no, I hope you can find a great Alice themed costume that won't result in people trying to pick you up off the street. :rotfl:

There have been many Pole on the WDW Bus jokes going around my house since we found out Queen of Hearts lies more in the naughty catagory on Santa's list! :lmao:


So your DD is being Alice too. I'm sure she will look very cute. Did you look on my trippie I posted 2 other Queen of hearts costume. One is also very short like the one you posted :lmao: . If you find a good Queen of Hreats costume then please send me a link too.


I will! We will look together! I wish the Disney store still had them. I wonder if they still sell them in the parks. Maybe we can get a live report from someone going in the next week or so. :thumbsup2

I saw the 2nd one you posted and I liked that one but I'm not sure if it would fit. I wonder what "standard" woman size is? :lmao: Surely not me!

[hlrababy]

Okay, you have to go on ebay!! I just did a search of the queen of hearts and it posted one that was from the Disney store! I don't know if it's your size or not, but hopefully you can find one on there!:thumbsup2
Since we cancelled our party trip, I will help you find a costume!:rotfl:

[AZMickeyfans]

Okay, you have to go on ebay!! I just did a search of the queen of hearts and it posted one that was from the Disney store! I don't know if it's your size or not, but hopefully you can find one on there!:thumbsup2
Since we cancelled our party trip, I will help you find a costume!:rotfl:

REALLY? SWEET? I dont want to pay TOO much for it considering it might rain all night and ruin it completely. :lmao:

I'm such an ebay dork. I really have no clue how to navigate that site. :guilty:

[kaysmommie]

You have to see this one :rotfl2: , I can't imagine wearing it in MagicKingdom. http://cgi.ebay.com/Super-Sexy-Queen-of-Hearts-Adult-Halloween-Costume-M-L_W0QQitemZ150289968031QQihZ005QQcategoryZ53369QQs sPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

There are a few that look appropriate.

[AZMickeyfans]

You have to see this one :rotfl2: , I can't imagine wearing it in MagicKingdom. http://cgi.ebay.com/Super-Sexy-Queen-of-Hearts-Adult-Halloween-Costume-M-L_W0QQitemZ150289968031QQihZ005QQcategoryZ53369QQs sPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

There are a few that look appropriate.


Heather is right about ebay!!! Thanks Heather!

Nichole, that made me spit out my lemonade! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :scared1: :scared1: :scared1: :faint:

[hlrababy]

Heather is right about ebay!!! Thanks Heather!

Nichole, that made me spit out my lemonade! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :scared1: :scared1: :scared1: :faint:

I hope you guys find one!!

I am trying to find a costume to just wear on Halloween and to a couple of halloween parties we are going too! Geez, I stress every year over this!!!:rotfl:

[kaysmommie]

I think I looked at all of them and I give up :rolleyes1 because most of them look like lingerie. Only one looks nice but it's so short too. I think I might stick with a Tshirt LOL.

[AZMickeyfans]

I hope you guys find one!!

I am trying to find a costume to just wear on Halloween and to a couple of halloween parties we are going too! Geez, I stress every year over this!!!:rotfl:

It is stressful isnt it? We dont all want to look like we are going to a FRAT party as a paid "guest" on Halloween do we? :lmao:

I think I looked at all of them and I give up :rolleyes1 because most of them look like lingerie. Only one looks nice but it's so short too. I think I might stick with a Tshirt LOL.

I'm thinking about the Disney Store one BUT would the velvet in it be too hot for FL on Oct 7? I'm thinking YES!! I guess I cant have it perfect but humidity puts me in a foul mood and I would hate to be grumpy all night because I had velvet sticking to me. Of course that might enhance the costume. :lmao:

[kaysmommie]

It is stressful isnt it? We dont all want to look like we are going to a FRAT party as a paid "guest" on Halloween do we? :lmao:



I'm thinking about the Disney Store one BUT would the velvet in it be too hot for FL on Oct 7? I'm thinking YES!! I guess I cant have it perfect but humidity puts me in a foul mood and I would hate to be grumpy all night because I had velvet sticking to me. Of course that might enhance the costume. :lmao:

:rotfl2: I understand and I'm sure it will be humid out too. That is a nice costume though.

[Alysa]

Oh my goodness - too too funny!!
:lmao:

That one one ebay for $170 - I'm trying to talk my sister into it because her daughter is being Alice too. They even have a flamingo that you can get to go with it.

Let us know what you find - good luck!

[OhioDisneyLover]

Thank you for making me laugh. I am thoroughly enjoying your PTR. :lmao: :rotfl2:

I love the dress. I'd never have known that you are new at sewing. :thumbsup2

Your yard is incredible. I have friends in Scottsdale and family in Sun Lakes and I have to say, it is rare that you see a yard like that in AZ! It's awesome!

Jumping on board and awaiting more.............popcorn::

Sitting here for the last hour and a half was so worth not getting :laundy: done.

[AZMickeyfans]

:rotfl2: I understand and I'm sure it will be humid out too. That is a nice costume though.

I think I'm bidding on the Disney store costume and if I dont like it I'll put it back up on ebay. :lmao: Luckily you are going to the party on another night so you wont have to deal with my crabbiness if I'm miserable in the velvet. :lmao: Heather bailed on me so I'm free to torment my family and strangers. :lmao: :lmao:

Oh my goodness - too too funny!!
:lmao:

That one one ebay for $170 - I'm trying to talk my sister into it because her daughter is being Alice too. They even have a flamingo that you can get to go with it.

Let us know what you find - good luck!

If I get it then we might be twins, your sister and I. What did you decide? I can't remember. I know your kids but are you dressing up? I must go reread.

Thank you for making me laugh. I am thoroughly enjoying your PTR. :lmao: :rotfl2:

I love the dress. I'd never have known that you are new at sewing. :thumbsup2

Your yard is incredible. I have friends in Scottsdale and family in Sun Lakes and I have to say, it is rare that you see a yard like that in AZ! It's awesome!

Jumping on board and awaiting more.............popcorn::

Sitting here for the last hour and a half was so worth not getting :laundy: done.

Thanks! I'm going to take that huge compliment and run with it considering you are so talented with the scrapbooking and such. :worship: I grew up in Scottsdale and there was one house that had the grass we have here now. Dh was nuts about that house and so he knew we HAD to have it when we bought out in Gilbert.

Isnt anything worth not doing :laundy: Glad I could be of help though. :lmao:

[Alysa]

Ooooooooo - we are going to the MNSSHP just after you - if you get the same one we could do a costume swap - like a fridge swap! Only more gorgeous!
I'm just going to go as Snow White - I have a costume and I don't think I can sew another for myself along with DH's Shang.

[AZMickeyfans]

Ooooooooo - we are going to the MNSSHP just after you - if you get the same one we could do a costume swap - like a fridge swap! Only more gorgeous!
I'm just going to go as Snow White - I have a costume and I don't think I can sew another for myself along with DH's Shang.

THATS RIGHT! DOH! I forgot. Total blonde moment there! :lmao:

Snow white will be so cute.

[kathleen27]

I am having the same costume issues!!! :headache:

:rotfl2:

This is why I have not chosen costumes yet. :lmao:

That and I can never make up my mind about anything! :rolleyes1

If I see anything I will let you know!
I have been spending a lot of time online costume shopping lately!

I am running out of time!!! :eek:

[AZMickeyfans]

I am having the same costume issues!!! :headache:

:rotfl2:

This is why I have not chosen costumes yet. :lmao:

That and I can never make up my mind about anything! :rolleyes1

If I see anything I will let you know!
I have been spending a lot of time online costume shopping lately!

I am running out of time!!! :eek:


Kathleen what are you looking for exactly? Jeff and I are heading to costume shops today and I'll keep my eye out for you. I might even try one one of the slutty Queen of hearts! :lmao: :lmao:

[kathleen27]

Kathleen what are you looking for exactly? Jeff and I are heading to costume shops today and I'll keep my eye out for you. I might even try one one of the slutty Queen of hearts! :lmao: :lmao:

Have fun shopping and trying things on!!!

We will probably go shopping tomorrow. The kids have a day off school -- already.

I was thinking for our first party, It would be fun to be Minnie since we will be at LTT for dinner. But I don't like any of the Minnie dresses I've seen. :headache: They are all a bit short and some are pink :confused: . There's a lot of naughty minnies too. :rotfl:

I really would just like a skirt, and I'd wear a black top I already have. And buy ears when we arrive. I may buy fabric, and see what a disaster that could be.

Second idea for that night is a witch, since Jacob will be a pirate skeleton, it would work together. But with a lot of purple, and some glow in the dark. And not too hot.

For the second party, Jacob will be Indiana Jones, so I was thinking Mary Poppins, or a Princess or Alice. I love the mary poppins idea, but I think it would be too hot. Should probably avoid the long sleeves. Plus she has too many accessories - Hat, bag, umbrella - too much to carry around. Alice I think would be easy, I've seen dresses I like, that are some what reasonalbe and I already have shoes. I think it will depend on availability and price. I could end up with something completely different.

[tinkermell]

Kathleen what are you looking for exactly? Jeff and I are heading to costume shops today and I'll keep my eye out for you. I might even try one one of the slutty Queen of hearts! :lmao: :lmao:
Jeff would probably like that! :rolleyes1

Argh!! pirate: :dance3: pirate:

[tinkermell]

Shawna, While we were gone over the weekend, we went to the best costume store I have ever been to. It was in Old Town Sacramento. 3 Stories of costumes, and everyroom on each floor was themed. It was unbelievable. Jeannie my friend bought a Viking hat for fun, and I bought a masquarade one. So many to choose from, and all pretty reasonable. We had so much fun trying everything on. I wish we had something like that here.

[AZMickeyfans]

Have fun shopping and trying things on!!!

We will probably go shopping tomorrow. The kids have a day off school -- already.

I was thinking for our first party, It would be fun to be Minnie since we will be at LTT for dinner. But I don't like any of the Minnie dresses I've seen. :headache: They are all a bit short and some are pink :confused: . There's a lot of naughty minnies too. :rotfl:

I really would just like a skirt, and I'd wear a black top I already have. And buy ears when we arrive. I may buy fabric, and see what a disaster that could be.

Second idea for that night is a witch, since Jacob will be a pirate skeleton, it would work together. But with a lot of purple, and some glow in the dark. And not too hot.

For the second party, Jacob will be Indiana Jones, so I was thinking Mary Poppins, or a Princess or Alice. I love the mary poppins idea, but I think it would be too hot. Should probably avoid the long sleeves. Plus she has too many accessories - Hat, bag, umbrella - too much to carry around. Alice I think would be easy, I've seen dresses I like, that are some what reasonalbe and I already have shoes. I think it will depend on availability and price. I could end up with something completely different.

I like the witch idea with a shorter skirt. That would be so cute with purple!!! I am getting so excited since Party reports are starting to come in aren't you? I bet Jacob is getting excited too!! :woohoo:

Jeff would probably like that! :rolleyes1

Argh!! pirate: :dance3: pirate:


You Dirty bird. :rolleyes1 :rotfl2:

Shawna, While we were gone over the weekend, we went to the best costume store I have ever been to. It was in Old Town Sacramento. 3 Stories of costumes, and everyroom on each floor was themed. It was unbelievable. Jeannie my friend bought a Viking hat for fun, and I bought a masquarade one. So many to choose from, and all pretty reasonable. We had so much fun trying everything on. I wish we had something like that here.

We had no luck at our local costume shops here today. I ordered the Disney store costume last night so we will see what it looks like when it comes in. I thought if its cute and it fits but too hot I could shorten it to a knee length dress possibly. I mean it would be a variation of the actual dress still. The point would come across I believe. :lmao: Or I could clue a heart to a white t-shirt and call it good! :rotfl2:

[tinkermell]

I like the witch idea with a shorter skirt. That would be so cute with purple!!! I am getting so excited since Party reports are starting to come in aren't you? I bet Jacob is getting excited too!! :woohoo:




You Dirty bird. :rolleyes1 :rotfl2:



We had no luck at our local costume shops here today. I ordered the Disney store costume last night so we will see what it looks like when it comes in. I thought if its cute and it fits but too hot I could shorten it to a knee length dress possibly. I mean it would be a variation of the actual dress still. The point would come across I believe. :lmao: Or I could clue a heart to a white t-shirt and call it good! :rotfl2:
I thought the Disney store costume, was the same as the ebay one?:confused3

Buy a black t-shirt, and make or buy a red skirt, or visa versa. Sew some white trim on the skirt, and sew some hearts and trim to the shirt. Voilia!
And then buy that crown that I keep on seeing.

[AZMickeyfans]

I thought the Disney store costume, was the same as the ebay one?:confused3

Buy a black t-shirt, and make or buy a red skirt, or visa versa. Sew some white trim on the skirt, and sew some hearts and trim to the shirt. Voilia!
And then buy that crown that I keep on seeing.

It is the same. See I'm confusing myself. They just dont sell it anymore. :lmao:

[Dr_Finkelstein]

Hi Shawna,
Just catching up -busy weekend here!

I had the same problem with trying to get an outfit - why do fancy dress manufacturers think only skanky women want to wear these costumes?

Yes, i'm sure DH would like me to wear one, but I don't think Mickey does. And I don't want my dream holiday rudely interrupted by being escorted off WDW property! :eek:

I eventually managed to get an outfit - Glamorous Witch. I know what you think, but not 'Glamorous' in THAT way! ;)

The only one without a costume is DH, so no pressure there then. :laughing:

DD is going as a Princess - either Ariel or Jasmine, DS as a footballer and DH - who knows yet. He liked the idea of a Puritan, but has no idea what kind of costume that is> :rolleyes1

Good luck with the Disney costume!

Di x

[kathleen27]

I like the witch idea with a shorter skirt. That would be so cute with purple!!! I am getting so excited since Party reports are starting to come in aren't you? I bet Jacob is getting excited too!! :woohoo:

We are getting really excited too!!!
I love hearing about the party, I keep showing things to Jacob and emailing him links. :lmao: He said to stop, he can't stand waiting and I'm making it worse. We are so close now!!!:cool1:

We had no luck at our local costume shops here today. I ordered the Disney store costume last night so we will see what it looks like when it comes in. I thought if its cute and it fits but too hot I could shorten it to a knee length dress possibly. I mean it would be a variation of the actual dress still. The point would come across I believe. :lmao: Or I could clue a heart to a white t-shirt and call it good! :rotfl2:

I had no luck today either. :sad2:
I have nothing towards a costume.
I did get a few other things, and I think everything we need to work on Jacob's.

[AZMickeyfans]

Hi Shawna,
Just catching up -busy weekend here!

I had the same problem with trying to get an outfit - why do fancy dress manufacturers think only skanky women want to wear these costumes?

Yes, i'm sure DH would like me to wear one, but I don't think Mickey does. And I don't want my dream holiday rudely interrupted by being escorted off WDW property! :eek:

I eventually managed to get an outfit - Glamorous Witch. I know what you think, but not 'Glamorous' in THAT way! ;)

The only one without a costume is DH, so no pressure there then. :laughing:

DD is going as a Princess - either Ariel or Jasmine, DS as a footballer and DH - who knows yet. He liked the idea of a Puritan, but has no idea what kind of costume that is> :rolleyes1

Good luck with the Disney costume!

Di x

Glamorous witch!!! :lmao: You are right, after seeing all of the costumes the last few days the image of Glamorous does conjure up some wild images! :rotfl2:

I love the Puritan costume! I have no idea what it is either. :lmao: :lmao:

You are SO CLOSE ITS CRAZY!! :woohoo:

We are getting really excited too!!!
I love hearing about the party, I keep showing things to Jacob and emailing him links. :lmao: He said to stop, he can't stand waiting and I'm making it worse. We are so close now!!!:cool1:



I had no luck today either. :sad2:
I have nothing towards a costume.
I did get a few other things, and I think everything we need to work on Jacob's.


Keep looking! Hopefully one will come along soon! I think I had Jake's costume under control and he told me it wasn't manly enough. :confused3 :lmao: Its the White rabbit. How do you make a bunny manly? sigh. :lmao:


Both of you are making me jealous. So close to leaving. My 3 weeks seems years away. :sad1:

[Mrs. The King]

Vampire in :cool2:

I love the Alice theme! It will be amazing :cheer2: I am sure someone mentioned this already, but did you try ebay?

My Mom's favorite character to greet for is the Queen of Hearts, she says it has a great personality.

Vampire out :cool2:

[hlrababy]

Sooo, did you have any luck finding a costume on ebay????? I am still looking for you!:thumbsup2

[AZMickeyfans]

Vampire in :cool2:

I love the Alice theme! It will be amazing :cheer2: I am sure someone mentioned this already, but did you try ebay?

My Mom's favorite character to greet for is the Queen of Hearts, she says it has a great personality.

Vampire out :cool2:


Dh thinks I will morph into the Queen of hearts nicely. :lmao:

OFF WITH HER HEAD!

[AZMickeyfans]

Sooo, did you have any luck finding a costume on ebay????? I am still looking for you!:thumbsup2

Well, yes and no. :lmao: I ordered the Disney Store one From Ebay. Thank you!!! I'm worried about the hotness factor. No, not that I'll be turning heads, the fact that I'll be dropping DEAD in it from being so hot. :faint:

I'll see what its like when I get it then go from there. Hopefully I can tough it out for one night. :thumbsup2

I am making Jake's White rabbit costume and we are ordering Jeff's Mad Hatter costume tonight or tomorrow. Whenever I get around to it. :rolleyes1

[disneydreamin247]

Okay, somehow I JUST found your PTR! I am loving it so far. It's so adorable that you guys met in the college program!

[AZMickeyfans]

"Car comes to rest; upside down in a big cloud of smoke. Ricky Bobby appears to be okay, but that Wonder Bread car is toast. " -Mike Joy from Talladega Nights


I love the announcers name, Mike Joy. :lmao: :rotfl2: Really no reason to use that quote other than I had toast this morning and I love this quote. Took me about 15 times watching the movie to get the Wonder Bread car being TOAST comment. :lmao:

Well, today I think I've got our costumes figured out. I'm making Jakes White Rabbit. We had a few choices off the internet but none that he liked. When we watched the movie we realized its just a shirt, pants, jacket and bow tie and a rabbit type ears. I might find some gloves for him to wear but I think we'll do a short sleeve version with the FL sun and humidity. BE WARNED: THIS COULD ALL CHANGE TOMORROW! :rotfl2:

I ordered the Disney Store Queen of Hearts costume off of ebay. I hope it fits and I'm not too hot in it. I'm a little worried. :eek:

I need to order Jeff's Mad Hatter and purchase Morgan's Alice.


OK, the other things I did towards the trip today were to call WDW and do my room requests that I forgot to put in when I changed to POP. We want 4th floor lakeview rooms preferably facing EPCOT (with the jacuzzi and personal butler of course) I was just chit chatting with the CM and I mentioned how this was supposed to be our 10th wedding anniversary trip but it was delayed and its almost our 11th anniversary so we are just celebrating our kids first time at WDW. :thumbsup2 He said "NO, we need to remark that its your anniversary trip in here as well because you can still celebrate it late!" We hadnt planned anything because our Anniv is in Dec. :lmao: This was to be my Anniv present but it kept getting pushed back. He did have a point! :laughing:

Then he kept asking what else he could do for me, dining? No already done. MNSSHP tickets? No, already have them? Anything else? Not that I could think of. then he gets all happy and says "Get your bags packed girl and get down here its almost TIME!!!"

:dance3: :dance3: :party: :party: :dance3: :dance3:

I cannot tell you how excited that got me. :yay: I got off the phone and SCREAMED my head off! I was dancing around the house! :cheer2: It was great! Dh came home in the middle of my Risky Business slide and asked what the joyful ceremony was for. He wasn't surprised. :lmao: He says he is never sure how the house is going to be or I am going to be when he gets home. Usually Im in deep conversation with myself or the dog when he walks in. :rolleyes1

I printed out a map of WDW so he can get his bearings on POP. He just couldnt figure out where it was when I said behind/beside the CBR. He was Disney Lost. After seeing the map all of the sudden he got really excited too.

Then I got to show him my treasures. Not those treasures. Geez, you've all been reading Mrs The Kings report haven't you? :rotfl2:

The treasures I picked up around town today.

See I wanted to get the kids the Halloween surprise with treats from Disney Florist til I realized that I have the MIckey ceramic candy jar at home and both of the kids have the minnie princess plush and the mickey pirate plush so why pay for that. :confused3 So I picked up the reusable shopping Mickey bags from the Disney store and bought 2 t-shirts there today. I was hoping for some cute halloween plush to fit in there but I didnt find any I liked. They had stitch but they also had Pooh and we are not fans of Pooh. :guilty: I was hoping for a Mickey and Minnie in costume instead of Pooh and stitch. Maybe something will come in.

If I cannot find the plush then I'll get some regular plush that we dont have. Then at Walgreens I picked up a Pirates Halloween candy bar and a Princes Halloween candy bar and a pooh and tigger halloween sucker. Those we can handle. PLush is forever! :lmao:

Eh, I shouldnt say we dont like Pooh, we just like Mickey better.

Ok then I went to the dollar store and got some glow necklaces and bracelets

So if I grab a few more items and snacks to throw in the bags the idea is to check in and have Jeff take the kids around the resort while I go to the room and put the bags on the bed waiting for the kids. Then go back out of the room and find them and pretend to all go to the room together for the first time. I'll also get a card from Mickey and Minnie welcoming them to Disney for their first visit.

Any other cute inexpensive ideas for the welcoming bag please share them. I would love to hear!!! :thumbsup2

This is if NoSamantha doesnt sniff out the bag and eat it before or the kids dont discover it. I've hid it well. Now remind me to pack it in a carryon that they cannot open! :lmao:

That is it for right now. I'm reworking my days. Yep, I'm reworking them because I wasnt happy with the order things were going in. I tried to switch my Sci Fi but I couldnt find another opening so its staying on that day. No big loss though. We are working around it. :thumbsup2

[AZMickeyfans]

Okay, somehow I JUST found your PTR! I am loving it so far. It's so adorable that you guys met in the college program!

:welcome: Pull up a bean bag and make yourself at home!

[hlrababy]

Well, yes and no. :lmao: I ordered the Disney Store one From Ebay. Thank you!!! I'm worried about the hotness factor. No, not that I'll be turning heads, the fact that I'll be dropping DEAD in it from being so hot. :faint:

I'll see what its like when I get it then go from there. Hopefully I can tough it out for one night. :thumbsup2

I am making Jake's White rabbit costume and we are ordering Jeff's Mad Hatter costume tonight or tomorrow. Whenever I get around to it. :rolleyes1
Awesome!!!! I hope it's not too hot for you!!
But, I still think you will look hot in it, not sweaty hot, but turning heads hot!!!:banana:
I wish we were still going then! I got Hollie's Alice dress back in the mail today! I had to send the other one back because it was a tad bit small, so I got the new one today. I got a little sad knowing we wouldn't be at the MNSSHP, but she can dress up at the P&P party in February!:thumbsup2

[AZMickeyfans]

Awesome!!!! I hope it's not too hot for you!!
But, I still think you will look hot in it, not sweaty hot, but turning heads hot!!!:banana:
I wish we were still going then! I got Hollie's Alice dress back in the mail today! I had to send the other one back because it was a tad bit small, so I got the new one today. I got a little sad knowing we wouldn't be at the MNSSHP, but she can dress up at the P&P party in February!:thumbsup2

And Definitely she will be much cooler in it then! I'm afraid we will melt. I'll take lots of pictures for you I promise.

Thanks for the props though girl. :lmao: :thumbsup2

[jerseygirl82]

Yay another adorable family AND a fun PTR!

"Any other cute inexpensive ideas for the welcoming bag please share them. I would love to hear!!!"

What is NOT in my bag of tricks for the welcome bag? I was able to pick up some cute inexpensive Disney stuff from Dollar Tree. Some little figures, coloring books, etc. Also have been scooping up the great deals at the Disney store. Nothing beats a $7.99 bathing suit on sale 40% off! :thumbsup2
I actually have so much stuff it might need its own suitcase. Or at the very least to occupy my carry on!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

I hope your costume works out for you.

As for finding POP, I found there were not a whole lot of signs for it when you just get on property. So when arriving on property I just followed the signs for DHS and eventually the POP signs started showing up once we got closer to the hotel.

[AZMickeyfans]

Yay another adorable family AND a fun PTR!

"Any other cute inexpensive ideas for the welcoming bag please share them. I would love to hear!!!"

What is NOT in my bag of tricks for the welcome bag? I was able to pick up some cute inexpensive Disney stuff from Dollar Tree. Some little figures, coloring books, etc. Also have been scooping up the great deals at the Disney store. Nothing beats a $7.99 bathing suit on sale 40% off! :thumbsup2
I actually have so much stuff it might need its own suitcase. Or at the very least to occupy my carry on!

:welcome:

Swim suits would be a cute idea. We just bought Jake a super cute Buzz set with the matching swim shirt from Costco this summer. He says he would not wear it to the pool only to WDW. :confused3 All of the sudden he is getting out of characters and its totally bumming me out! I'll have to see if there is any other cute ones still left!



I hope your costume works out for you.

As for finding POP, I found there were not a whole lot of signs for it when you just get on property. So when arriving on property I just followed the signs for DHS and eventually the POP signs started showing up once we got closer to the hotel.


He was trying to picture POP in his mind but it never worked. Luckily, or unluckily depending on your point of view, we wont have a car to worry about it. I tease him though because I'm like "Dont you think because its been 8 years since we've lived there that they may have built another road in that time?" :lmao:

[AZMickeyfans]

To Do List

This list will ebb and flow like the seas.

1. Order Photopass----DONE

2. Cancel Reservation at AsSports---DONE

3. Call and request upper level floor lakeview at POP (with private Jacuzzi and Butler of course. ;)---DONE

4. Cancel BBB.----DONE

5. Change Sci-Fi.----CANT DO THIS SO NEVERMIND

6. Collect pre 1982 pennies for penny press. Thanks to Kathleen for the tip about the pre 1982 pennies who has a report here Kathleens pre-trippie (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1860745) and her son Jacob has one here Jacob's pre-trippie here (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1883052). I need to put them in M&M containers too.

7. Get change for the laundry machine and buy and measure dry detergent into snack size ziplock bags for easy laundry.

8. Sew outfits!---in progress

9. Sew costumes! More on this to come.---in progress

10. Make photocopies and pictures of all ticket media.

11. Get more memory sticks for my camera and get mini-DV's for video camera. --got the memory sticks wanting new video camera now instead of tapes.:lmao:

12. Buy another pair of Reef sandals for the kids and I.


:lmao:

[tinkermell]

Hey girl!

I like the idea that you are sewing Jake's costume. You have full control over how hot it is. Does that even make sense? :lmao: Besides you can do a better job of it. I have faith in you!

I'm not sure if you are interested or not, but Costco has the cutest Disney Princess hoodies and matching tees right now. Just saw them today. $16.00 dollars for the set, and they are so adorable. If I had a little girl, I would be scooping those things up. Hmm............Maybe they don't sell hoodies in Phoenix? :laughing: J/K!

Has Jeff seen your idea for him yet? Did he go for it? Is he game?

[Alysa]

Hi Shawna!
1. Order Photopass----DONE

Do you have to do this in advance before you go?:confused:

Can't wait to hear about your sewing - wish we lived closer, we could do this together!:rolleyes:

[AZMickeyfans]

Hey girl!

I like the idea that you are sewing Jake's costume. You have full control over how hot it is. Does that even make sense? :lmao: Besides you can do a better job of it. I have faith in you!

I'm not sure if you are interested or not, but Costco has the cutest Disney Princess hoodies and matching tees right now. Just saw them today. $16.00 dollars for the set, and they are so adorable. If I had a little girl, I would be scooping those things up. Hmm............Maybe they don't sell hoodies in Phoenix? :laughing: J/K!

Has Jeff seen your idea for him yet? Did he go for it? Is he game?


:lmao: yes they sell hoodies here. We get to wear them for a month after Christmas! Its Fantastic! :lmao:

Jeff saw it and approved. He will basically do whatever Morgan and Jake want him to do. I love that about him!!! He's a good sport! I've contemplated doing his as well. I'm still on the fence. Do I order or do I make his? His is $69 plus shipping and taxes. It comes with a hat. Not the hat but its a hat. I'm not sure I could make the hat and the hat in the parks is about $50 right? I believe, at least so we are thinking the ordered costume is a good deal.

Hi Shawna!

Do you have to do this in advance before you go?:confused:

Can't wait to hear about your sewing - wish we lived closer, we could do this together!:rolleyes:


Yes! It would be fun to sew these costumes together!

Alysa if you go to this website you can preorder your photopass CD and save $25. So I got mine for $99!!! Then you keep your email SAFE and after you get back it gives you instructions on how to order the CD. If you dont like any of your pictures you can get a refund if you dont want the CD. Win Win situation in my book!

Photopass Pre-Order (http://www.disneyphotopass.com/previsitcdplan.aspx)

[Philadisney]

Hi Shawna - I am back from WDW ( :sad: ) and slowly getting caught up on everyone's TRs and PTRs! I love all your old pictures - didn't know there used to be a double decker bus going around the World Showcase. I love the manatees, Lou and Boc, too. We made time to visit with them last week - it's so cute if you can catch them during feeding time.
And I'm really impressed with the Minnie dress - it's so cute and unique! I would love to learn how to sew properly. I am still working on sewing buttons and mending holes - half the time it comes out ok....
I LOVE that your family is doing an Alice theme for Halloween! Alice is my all time favorite character - I got to meet her on this past trip finally and got a little starstruck :laughing: can't wait to see pictures!

[OhioDisneyLover]

I just got caught up this morning on your recent postings popcorn:: .

Can't wait to see pictures of the costumes!

Also, your checklist looks to be in fabulous shape. You're just checking 'em off, aren't ya? :laughing:

-Sophia

[kaysmommie]

I think I need to make a checklist or something importatn will be forgotten :scared1: . Looking forward to seeing the costumes you are making. I don't think I will be able to talk Thomas inot being White Rabbit but I do think I could get him to be tweedle dee :idea: .

[xoktenox]

subbing in, cant wait to read this all hopefully it will help me start my own PTR :goodvibes

[OneTreeHillAddict]

Okay, what's going on with the pre 1982 pennies because guess what!? My kids started doing that this time. (Thanks Joy for buying them those dag gum books!) :sad2: I can't wait to see all of you dressed up!!!! We got to meet the AIW Walrus this time at the HP! He was cool!

[AZMickeyfans]

Hi Shawna - I am back from WDW ( :sad: ) and slowly getting caught up on everyone's TRs and PTRs! I love all your old pictures - didn't know there used to be a double decker bus going around the World Showcase. I love the manatees, Lou and Boc, too. We made time to visit with them last week - it's so cute if you can catch them during feeding time.
And I'm really impressed with the Minnie dress - it's so cute and unique! I would love to learn how to sew properly. I am still working on sewing buttons and mending holes - half the time it comes out ok....
I LOVE that your family is doing an Alice theme for Halloween! Alice is my all time favorite character - I got to meet her on this past trip finally and got a little starstruck :laughing: can't wait to see pictures!

Welcome HOME!!! I cant wait to hear about your trip

If I'm not mistaken you could ride the bus around the world too. They had stops kind of like the Friendship boats. Sad to see they are not there anymore.

I cannot sew a button on to save my life!!! I took a sewing class in Jan and just started on my own. I wish I would have done it when Morgan and Jake were babies because I would have made them some cute stuff! :thumbsup2 But thank you! :lmao:

I just got caught up this morning on your recent postings popcorn:: .

Can't wait to see pictures of the costumes!

Also, your checklist looks to be in fabulous shape. You're just checking 'em off, aren't ya? :laughing:

-Sophia

I need to make a packing list. I think I'll steal everyone else's and then customize it!:lmao:

I think I need to make a checklist or something importatn will be forgotten :scared1: . Looking forward to seeing the costumes you are making. I don't think I will be able to talk Thomas inot being White Rabbit but I do think I could get him to be tweedle dee :idea: .


Tweedle dee would be cute! Jeff and I were going to go as Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum if we didnt come up with anything else. Hopefully ours works.

[AZMickeyfans]

subbing in, cant wait to read this all hopefully it will help me start my own PTR :goodvibes

:welcome: As soon as you start yours let me know! I'd love to read it!!! I got my inspiration from all of the fabulous ones I was reading!!!
Okay, what's going on with the pre 1982 pennies because guess what!? My kids started doing that this time. (Thanks Joy for buying them those dag gum books!) :sad2: I can't wait to see all of you dressed up!!!! We got to meet the AIW Walrus this time at the HP! He was cool!


I've never seen the Walrus! How awesome!!! :cool1:

Pre 1982 pennies have more copper in them so they dont streak as bad when they are squished. Check out Kathleens PTR for the exact info but that is the short end of it. I guess newer ones have silver lines in them and they start to look funny when squished with the lines.

Welcome BACK too!! :thumbsup2

[kathleen27]

I can't wait to see how you like the costume.
We are used to Halloween being cold, so its funny to be looking for warm weather costumes.

The bags for the kids sound cute! I am looking for little stuff too. Mostly for Hannah, but a couple of things for Jacob too.

Packing list :lmao:
I have a full page excel spreadsheet. It has everything I need for any trip. Winter or summer. I come back from a trip and add all the things I wished I'd brought. I am so forgetful, If I don't write it down I'll never remember it. The list has been around a long time, and it has really grown over the years.

I see your ticker is down to three weeks!!! :banana:

[AZMickeyfans]

I can't wait to see how you like the costume.
We are used to Halloween being cold, so its funny to be looking for warm weather costumes.

The bags for the kids sound cute! I am looking for little stuff too. Mostly for Hannah, but a couple of things for Jacob too.

Packing list :lmao:
I have a full page excel spreadsheet. It has everything I need for any trip. Winter or summer. I come back from a trip and add all the things I wished I'd brought. I am so forgetful, If I don't write it down I'll never remember it. The list has been around a long time, and it has really grown over the years.

I see your ticker is down to three weeks!!! :banana:

I know I cannot wait til tomorrow!!! 2 weeks 6 days! :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

2 more days and yours will say 1 week 6 days! WOOHOO!!

You'll have to post your packing list on your thread and I'll snatch it! :cool2:

[AZMickeyfans]

I've just been browsing through the counter service menus. I'm so hungry right now. :lmao:


Jake was having an ice cream cone. I wanted one but there wasnt much so I decided to do the responsible thing and leave it for him for tomorrow. :rolleyes1 That doesnt happen often! :lmao: Jake and Morgan like different types of ice cream. Anyway, I kept justifying my skipping the ice cream as I' can be at Beaches and Cream in 3 weeks! That made me wait. :thumbsup2 :lmao:

[disneydreamin247]

I've just been browsing through the counter service menus. I'm so hungry right now. :lmao:


Jake was having an ice cream cone. I wanted one but there wasnt much so I decided to do the responsible thing and leave it for him for tomorrow. :rolleyes1 That doesnt happen often! :lmao: Jake and Morgan like different types of ice cream. Anyway, I kept justifying my skipping the ice cream as I' can be at Beaches and Cream in 3 weeks! That made me wait. :thumbsup2 :lmao:

Every dang time I look through the menus I get SO hungry. But nothing in my house appeals to me because it isn't what I've been drooling over for the past half hour!:rotfl: