EDC Western Cruise, 11/01/08: PostTrip Depression, Pics added 11/29

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

I"ve been toying with the notion of writing a TR, but feel tremendous pressure to keep up with the great writings of fellow DISers who have braved their souls on the board (and ON-board!) But I forge on, more for my own therapeutic experience than anything else!

Our upcoming cruise will be our fifth DCL sailing, and 6th cruise...we went on an Alaskan Cruise in 2000 on HAL. It was beautful, and if DCL ever does go north to The Land of the Midnight Sun ;) , we plan to be there.

Our first DCL sailing was on the Wonder, in October of 1999. We had been married in WDW at the Wedding Pavillion with our reception at the Grand Floridian the week before. Since DH is from Colorado, and I am originally a Jersey Girl (now transplanted to Maryland!), we have family ALL over the country! And, lucky :confused3 for us, 85 friends and family were able to come down and enjoy our wedding and all the Disney Magic.princess: It was grand, and I can share details if people are interested, but this is a CRUISE thread, so I should stay on topic!

Anyway, after our wedding, then a week in Disney to start our Honeymoon, we boarded the Wonder (on its 19th sailing ever) for 4 glorious days. That was "back in the day" when there were only 3 and 4 day cruises on the Magic and Wonder, so the "19th sailing" equated to being on-board just a month or two from its Inaugural sailing. :cool2: To me, the ships seem as glorious as they did in the beginning, but I'm not overly picky either! I do, however vaguely remember one day on board, when it was raining (OK, pouring) and as we stood in the area of the mid-ship lifts, where the Mickey/Minnie mural (or was it Ariel?) was, water was POURING into the ship from the elevator shaft! Somewhat disconcerting, but they had it handled...hopefully water doesn't still come down the shafts in the rain!!

Sadly, in 1999, we didn't have a digital camera, and the camera we had brought on board had exposed at least an entire roll of film from the cruise. :mad: Back then, I didn't keep journals of what we did, so many of the Memories of our Honeymoon sailing are just that, memories... I haven't been back on the Wonder since, and really wish I had some pictures of our stateroom, Honeymoon gift, pictures of Palo, Tritons, etc. But, there are some pictures to remind us of our trip! For this I am grateful.

Our sailing aboard the Wonder was a waiting game. Hurricane Floyd had hit the month before (the first time ever the WDW resort had been closed for the day!) and it had hit Nassau pretty hard. Castaway Cay had also been seriously damaged, so much that we were the first sailing allowed back onto the island since the storm hit! Buildings in Nassau had still been missing a roof, shingles, windows... you get the idea. Many tours weren't available because of damage to the island. But hey, a bad day in Paradise....;)
Our Honeymoon cruise was WONDERful (to state the obvious) and therefore we have booked several DCL sailings since!

Our last 3 cruises have each been 7 days on the Magic. We have done 2 Eastern itineries, and a Western. Our upcoming trip will also be a Western. Since finding these boards, this cruise will be SO much different than the others. I know so much more (and I've been onboard several times already!) and we are going to try out some of the "secret" things we have learned! So, I am excited that in less than 30 days, we will be sailing away yet again, with the mouse and the friends we have all grown to love! :love:

See ya real soon!!pirate:

[podsnel]

YAY JEN!!!!! I'm so happy you're doing a TR!!!!:yay: :yay: :yay: Can't wait to read about all your adventures- hope I get to be a part of some of them!:goodvibes

Ellen

[wuv tigger]

Our upcoming trip will also be a Western. Since finding these boards, this cruise will be SO much different than the others. I know so much more (and I've been onboard several times already!) and we are going to try out some of the "secret" things we have learned! So, I am excited that in less than 30 days, we will be sailing away yet again, with the mouse and the friends we have all grown to love! :love:

See ya real soon!!pirate:

Hey, all the Election Day Castaways hope to be part of your TR!

wuv tigger

[CastleCreations]

Hey Fellow Cruiser...it's about time one of us braved the shark infested waters...and began a trip report...can't wait to read along...

[wuv tigger]

Hey Fellow Cruiser...it's about time one of us braved the shark infested waters...and began a trip report...can't wait to read along...

If so, glad to have you aboard!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Oh man CastleCreations, I saw the pic of Brent in your avatar and thought HE was writing to me! Damn.:lmao:

Are we there yet? I have been working on a Tshirt for the family, I am thinking of using the picture of the castle and the star bridge to the Magic with some words on it. Something like "Continuing the Magic" or is that too quirky?

Also almost done with my FE, not the greatest FE in the world, but it will do the trick.

Also still working on FE gifts. I want to do something everyone will like, but not everyone will be giving, KWIM?

Lots of packing to do, and less than 30 days to go!:banana: I need a vacation!!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

So, I am anxiously counting the minutes/days til we sail off, only 30 days to go....:rolleyes1 Work has been tough the last week and 1/2, I am so ready for a vacation. Could be because we haven't been to Dinsey since Dec. of 2007, or could just the need to get away...or both!

Still checking the website to see if we got an upgrade, guess I'm out of luck, since we are in a Category 4, and I am pretty certain people have all the Suites booked. But hey :confused3 one can dream right? Its cool, we booked our room back in January, so I know we will love it!!

I am fervently reading the reports of the cruisers who have been on (or are still on) the Magic since the drydock. I am certain most of the "kinks" should be worked out in the next 30 days, but one can never know what will happen! Also waiting for someone to tell me if our stateroom looks like it is in OK shape, so if anyone has been in 8018 lately, please let me know!!

Wrote the note to DD teacher to go into school with her tomorrow. We chose this week (Nov. 1) to cruise because DD has no school on 10/31, 11/3 and 11/4 (for election day and "teacher planning") So she will really only be missing 3 days of school. Told her teacher:

"just giving you advanced notice that Lin will be out of class from Oct 29 to Nov 7th for a family vacation. We chose this week to go so that we can minimize the impact on her classes. I sent in a copy of her WDW Journal she will be working on (that I got off of the Mouse4less website) so please let me know if there is anything you would like to add. We will continue her reading journal on the trip, and would be happy to bring any work she may need to complete."

Just so I don't get flamed by anyone, we travel during the school year because both DH and I are in the medical field, and are not able to take off more than one or two days during holidays. If one of us works during Christmas, the other one works Thanksgiving due to daycare issues. Also, our school district allows up to "5 days per year excused for family vacations", so we are within the district's guidelines.

I am so hoping that this Western cruise will be better than the last. Not the cruise itself, but the itinerary. We like actually being at sea for 3 days like you are on the Eastern itinerary, and were not thrilled with Cozumel the last trip on the Western. We don't do beaches, as DH can't tolerate the heat and sun, and I'm not taking the girls by myself to a Mexican beach. I'd rather spend the peaceful afternoon by the pool, which will be pretty deserted since we will be at a port! :3dglasses Last time we weren't able to stop at Grand Cayman, since the seas were so rough (it was January) that the tenders weren't able to board people off our ship. Actually I think the ship would have just pulled out, but there were some tenders of excursions that had gotten out early, before it really got wavy, so they couldn't leave them behind! But I bet it scared the cr*p out of anyone who was already on shore to see the Magic sailing away (only to the other side of the island where it was calmer,but still!) :rotfl: Key West and CC were fine, so the cruise wasn't totally awful, but we didn't think it was worth the extra $$ to do the Western vs. the Eastern Carribean! Guess we will find out in the next month!

Anyhow, 30 days to go. :banana: :banana: :banana: Can't wait!!

[nobodycares]

Just found your thread! :surfweb:

Did you tell us about this on our meets thread? I am sure the crew would like to read it.

Hope to see you on the ship!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Thought I'd try to post a few pics of the last cruise we had gone on. It was the Eastern itinerary, but hey, its the same boat!!

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1480-1.jpg
Sunset from the Magic

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1426.jpg
The Magic from Paradise Point, St Thomas

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1421.jpg
The Magic seen from the Tram ride up to Paradise Point, St Thomas

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1395.jpg
All aboard who is going aboard!!!


Make you want to get on the boat yet??

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Ok, Ok, a few more before I head off to bed, dreaming of my trip in LESS THAN 29 DAYS!!!!!!!
Can I have a dancing banana!! :banana: :dance3: :banana:

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0390.jpg
Sights for sore eyes, the Magic in Port Canaveral

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0393.jpg
Another of the Magic in Port Canaveral

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0411.jpg
Checking out our verandah (8052 I think?)

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0461.jpg
Sail away party

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0426.jpg
DH and DD on the Ariel View. Can't be that picture!! :lovestruc

Hard time at work this week, my boss giving me crap about my trip being longer than "7 days". I politely informed her that to do WDW and the cruise is 7 days would be the Land and Sea package, and that's just TOO DAMN LITTLE TIME ON THE BOAT!! :rolleyes1 :sad2: I guess her 2 1/2 week trip to the Mediterranean isn't allowed for me? um, excuse me, but I do think I deserve more than ONE freakin' week of vacation a year! Esp. when our senior staff (I am the other director of our center) has had 2 weeks off each since May!

ARGH pirate: Where's the damn boat!!!! I need some Magic!

[plutospup]

Great pre-tripper! Best of all we get to experience this cruise LIVE FROM THE MAGIC!:cool1:

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Thanks for the support, fellow Castaway! :thumbsup2 Love ya!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

So, last cruise, we used DCL transportation, which had a SNAFU and we didn't get to the ship til after 2pm, and onboard until 3pm, so we missed lunch. We took a quick peek at our cabin and verandah (see above pics) and then after the lifeboat drill headed up to the Sail Away Party. I could not believe those counselors could keep up all that jumping and dancing without seeming to work up a sweat! We had a bunch of fun, and had many opportunities to see ourselves on the Ariel View TV (luckily, my dad got the picture of DH and DD on the big screen before they had moved onto someone else, I love that picture!):lovestruc

We had Brent for our CD that trip, gotta love his "accent" Very energetic, and everyone was pumped up for the trip! There were 2 especially pumped up, minimally dressed, slightly drunk women right next to us at the Deck Party, with a large Mickey glove on one hand, drink in the other, making utter fools of themselves. Not sure if we saw them again, or if they just had more clothes on for the rest of the cruise and we didn't recognize them...:3dglasses Here's some more pictures of the Sail away party

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0472.jpg
Daddy and Syd

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0473.jpg
Mommy and Lin

Then the count.... 5.....4....3....2.....1
bwah, bwah, bwah, bwah, bwah, bwah bwaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhh

Come on, you know how it goes!!:thumbsup2

Before the party ended, we headed down to the cabin to get ready for dinner, our first night this trip would be in Animators Palate, one of the favs!! We had our own table this time, since it was us and my parents, so we had a table of 6, right near a wall where we could watch the "show" of AP. Not sure why, but I have seen the walls change many times, and the end movie where good reigns over evil always seems to choke me up. Trying not to give up the ending here, but rest assured, a true Disney fan will become misty eyed by dessert.....

[podsnel]

I think you SHOULD give that business partner of yours the Jersey Girl-I'll-show -you-what-it's-like you were talking about on our meet thread!:thumbsup2

ps- GREAT pic on the big screen!!!!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

So today I finished up the details of our shirts. I made a set for us and my parents for Halloween in the park, and then the shirt I made for boarding. Printed them:surfweb: , even getting he "print the design in Mirror view" for the light transfers, and "print it regular" for the dark transfers. Of course, I re-read the directions like 100 times, and even read the Spanish version on the back page just to make sure I didn't completely screw them up. Those transfer sheets are expensive!! Almost ranks up there with those darn magnetic sheets, which I am now the proud owner of about 35 (still plain, sans pictures). Can never have enough magnets, and if you do, share them with your fellow castaways, I say! :rotfl:

So then we read, re-read and read one more time (or 12) the directions on how to iron those transfers onto shirts. Of course, the method for the light colored shirts are way different than the dark, so I had to make sure I was reading the right directions for each. :sad2: I know, sad, but if I have to go back to Target to buy MORE shirts (ultimate Tees: they rock!) then I will end up spending at least another $100 for things "for the cruise" that I really don't need and probably won't end up packing anyway. Or items I will sneak into my suitcase, (much like the items I buy and sneak into the house) and then DH will ever so kindly tell me that I don't need to bring "that" and remove it for me. He is so wierd since we had to pay an extra $70 on luggage fees one trip home, and that was BEFORE the per bag fees started this year!! :rotfl2:

So we are wrapping up the day, and another items is checked off the to do list! Its a biggie, since I only have 24 days until we leave for grand ol' Flor-I-da and I have been seriously procrastinating! We may head up to Delaware or Lancaster tomorrow, stopping (if its PA) at Hershey to stock up on chocolate and either way make a stop at the Disney Outlet store. Then again, maybe we won't. Only tomorrow will tell!!

[CastleCreations]

Oh man CastleCreations, I saw the pic of Brent in your avatar and thought HE was writing to me! Damn.:lmao:




LOL....that is too funny!!!

And to the PP....yup, I'm on board for November 1st....
I just need to finish working on my Brent for President Tee shirt...LOL

[CastleCreations]

Okay...quit holding out...where are all of your brent pictures...hmmm???

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

As my DDs will tell you, only 18 more sleeps til Di-ney world!!:banana:

Still have to finish up the FEs, but I am making good progress on them!:thumbsup2

Finished my FE, its OK, but hopefully not good enough for anyone to steal! :rotfl:

Suitcase is up from the basement (OK, well 2 of them), but haven't started putting things into it yet! My guest room, however, looks like a suitcase puked all over it! :lmao:

Shirts are done, and I am quite proud of them. :lovestruc

18 more sleeps, who hooooooooo!!!!! Bring on the Magic:wizard:

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

A few more pictures from our previous cruise!

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0584.jpg
Taking a swim in the Mickey Pool

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0617.jpg
Hangin out in the Hot tub with Grammy

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0625.jpg
Glass sculpture in the Atrium

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0654.jpg
So cool in the bunk bed!

[podsnel]

They are just too cute!!:cutie: :cutie: Love that they count down the sleeps until Di'ney World!!!:lovestruc

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Ok, made up my packing list, for me. Still need to make up the one for the girls. I have to make lists, so I know I didn't forget anything, otherwise, I'll definately forget something! I think I need to look over at Passporter and see if there are any packing lists I can customize and work from...

Set aside the clothes I have on the list too, but i need to try them on. I tryied on my capri jeans today, and they were too big. And I loved them! Not that I am sad about losing weight, just sad that my clothes now won't fit! I can't go and buy all new clothes before this trip and save money for the cruise too!!

We also went to the Pumpkin Farm today. Got our hayride out to the field and picked out some nice pumpkins. Also got my usual Mums and Corn stalks for the front of the house. Too bad we won't be around on Halloween to enjoy them, but they should last into Thanksgiving, I hope!!

3 weeks from today and we will be sailing off on the Magic!:banana:

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0732.jpg

Waves seen from Deck 4

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0738.jpg


From the Golden Mickeys: (taken WITHOUT a FLASH!!!)
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0656.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0659.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0662.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0670.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0691.jpg

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Spent the day today trying on clothes and trying to decide what to pack and wear on the trip. It is so hard to try and limit how much I bring, since you really NEED 2 outfits a day: your day outfit then dinnerwear! But, I am slowly narrowing down the choices to maximize space for souvin"ears"!

Also spent the other part of the day researching the Baltic cruises. I have put in a requent with DU to get a stateroom on the 6-12-10 cruise, but I am soooo worried that it will be so out of reach financially. And the points for DVC are way too high, so I sit with my fingers crossed, hoping for some Disney Magic...:wizard:

Well, its getting late, and I need to be at work tomorrow at 7am! :sad2: Here are a few more pictures from our last cruise...

Helmsman Mickey
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0761f.jpg

Lindsey's Favorite: Aurora
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0755f.jpg

Playing around on the steps by Helmsman Mickey
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0766.jpg

Mickey and the girls!
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0769c.jpg

Princess Minnie Hugs
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0776.jpg

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Wow, I feel like a slacker! haven't been able to post any blog updates til now, such a crazy week!!

I am so excited that we got a porthole room for the June 12 2010 cruise to the Baltics. We have been planning a Baltic for a year, so we could celebrate our 10 year anniversary, and I can't tell you how excited we are to be able to do the Baltic on the cruise ship we took on our honeymoon!! :banana:

Also can't believe we have only 2 weeks til we are on board the Magic! I really need to do some serious packing this weekend. I spend all day last Sunday going through my clothes and figuring out what I can wear, making a packing list, etc. Now I have to get the clothes into the suitcase AND start on the wardrobe and packing lists for the girls. I am seriously running out of time!

Just saw what a recent Western cruiser said was the dining rotation on her cruise last week. :confused3 Not quite sure, but I think someone was drinking when they planned it! I am hoping that this new rotation won't disturb my Palo reservation, but if so, I take comfort in knowing we have done Palo's 4 other times, so if I have to cancel (so we could do the "show" at AP on the first AP night!) then we will cancel...

Anyway, here's some more pics from our last cruise:
Speaking of AP:
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0782.jpg


Don't look if you don't want to spoil the "surprise ending!"
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0784.jpg

Oh man, not Mac and Cheese again!
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0780.jpg

Our towel elephant (so cool!)
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0787.jpg

Waiting in the WDT for the show to begin! (gotta love the fabric on the seats!)
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0788.jpg

[podsnel]

HEY I'll-meet-u-in-two-weeks-cruise-mate!:goodvibes I am so happy for you booking that next cruise in the Baltic- especially, because you will have your anniversary on it!:love: Soooo cooool!:thumbsup2 I'm very envious of your itinerary- I've always thought that Baltic area looked perfect for a cruise...I think you are going to have the BEST time!:cheer2: :yay:

HOWEVER...In 2 weeks....well, that's gonna be perfect, too!
WOO HOO!!!!!LET'S GO!!!!!!

[mindelmouse]

board about the one you started here...the pictures are great Jen

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Thanks Mindy, while these aren't from our last Western cruise, the pics on the ship are the same, so I thought people would enjoy (and I would get even more excited than I already am!)

I can't believe we are in single digit countdown now! I went through the ITunes last night and load up a Disney Cruise playlist, I played in at work today, and I was quite happy with the selections. I couldn't find some of the songs (Like "On my way" from Brother Bear, not sure if its called something else!) but overall its a nice mix of Disney and Carribean songs! :dance3:

I feel so overwhelmed in packing. I had made a list of clothes to bring, then found a bunch of clothes I had bought on sale at the end of the season and forgot about! :rolleyes1 Now I have to rethink my wardrobe plans! I know that by this time next week I'll just be tossing things in and praying I remember everything I need!!

My girls are also not helping the cause. I put things in the suitcase, they take them out and hide insider. I put them back, I go downstairs for something, and then its all out again and they are giggling "find me Momma" :rolleyes: Goofy heads!

Lots of sickness going around here in MD. Kids, adults, fevers, sore throats, you name it. Its like walking a minefield and trying not to catch any of it! Maybe I should stock up on an arsenol of Antibiotics along with all the OTC meds I've packed so I am ready for anything :rotfl2: (and before anyone flames me on that, I would not pack antibiotics unless I was really sick!)

Really looking forward to seeing the shows again. They are always so awesome, I am brought to tears at the end of each. Then again, I cry when the damn ship's horn sounds, so I am really a sap! Particularly for any Disney theatrics! :rotfl2: Here's some pictures of Twice Charmed, a twist on the Cinderella story:

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0790.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0796.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0799.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0801.jpg

Notice the black and white all onstage, much like Animator's Palate...
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0813.jpg

And now the color:
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0817.jpg

And more color:
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0824.jpg

Ahhhhh, 8 more days and all I need to worry about is whether or not the ship is rocking while those poor souls are trying to dance and not fall on their faces!!:cheer2:

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Whoa, getting so close now! A week from now we will be boarding the boat in route to Key West and Mexico!! :banana:

Still packing furiously to get it all in there and done. Of course, I planned for warmer weather, and the temps for WDW next week are only high 60s to low 70s. Maybe need to change around some things... but the ship clothes are good: it will be in the 80s for our stops down south!!

I am so hoping we will have a great trip. Not that the other 4 haven't lived up to the expectations, but you know when you put your heart and soul into planning and planning, the bar is set high.:wizard: I hope they can keep up with us!!

Went to the rhematologist yesterday, for my 3 month check, and he said the cruise is the best thing for me right now. I need the sunshine, I need the massage, and I need the salt (I know, wierd, but its helps my blood pressure!) Gotta love those doctors!

Oh, got the girls Disney Princess pillowcases that are plain white with line drawings of the princesses on them. Comes with fabric crayons for them to color in their picture, and then we will bring them with us on the ship to have the characters sign. I got them at Michaels craft store. They had TInk, Ariel, the Princesses, Pirates int he Carribean (a few styles of that one) and also Hanna Montana. They were $10 and were in the kids craft section of the store. In case you guys are looking for pillowcases to have autographed. I just need to get some sharpies now to bring with us!!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0901.jpg

Bow of the ship, closeup:
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_0979f.jpg

Sliding away into the Mickey Pool!
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1001.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1006.jpg

Playing around in the pool:
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1015.jpg

Sorry I didn't get any pics in last night, I can't believe we are just 1 week (7 days!!) away from being back on the Magic!:goodvibes I think I have bought everything I need, now its just a matter of packing it all into 4 bags. Still need to work through the girl's wardrobe, but I'm making progress!

Happy sailing to those boarding the Magic right now! And please don't mess up the ship, we'll be getting on while you are getting off!:lmao:

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

OMG, just "3 sleeps" until we leave for WDW!! I am in a flurry of activity to finish! I really just need to pack up the girls dresses and all, and just double check my clothes, since I need to throw in another pair of capri's or two to accomodate for the weather this week in Orlando!!

I need warm weather, quiet, the sea lapping against the boat while I sit on my verandah and watch all the Grey's Anatomy episodes I am behind on! LOL Nothing like watching McDreamy while sitting on a boat in the middle of the ocean! :lovestruc :lovestruc

My Palo Dinner:
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1034.jpg

Another towel critter friend!
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1039.jpg

All dressed up for Pirate night. Thanks Disney for the NOT so temporary tattoos!!
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1041s.jpg
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1042s.jpg

Pirates IN the Carribean on the Dumbotron!!
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1046.jpg

Argh, bring it on mateys!!pirate:

[podsnel]

Your pics from your last cruise continue to get me PSYCHED for our cruise!! And may I just say, one more time before I see them in person, your DDs are the cutest!!!!:cutie: :cutie:

See ya REAL soon!!
E

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Well, i can't believe its finally here! We leave in 24 hours! I am about to go and print off our boarding passes for AirTran. I really hope I haven't forgotten anything, but I know if I did, I will have a fellow DISer there to help me out!!

I am so glad we are leaving tomorrow. The temperature in Maryland dropped like 20 degrees since yesterday, and its been so rainy and windy here its incredible! May even have snow showers here tomorrow evening, so I am really glad we fly out at 3pm!!

Probably won't pay for minutes to get online on the ship, since I heard its really a waste of money and minutes! But I will take detailed notes for those who want to know! Also lots of pictures! Can't forget those! :wizard:

So, I leave with a few last pictures of our last cruise. See you all real soon!!

Pirate Party and Fireworks!
http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1048.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1096.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1182s.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1124.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1128.jpg

http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp163/jecnderela/DSC_1140.jpg

Bon Voyage Friends!!! See you on the boat!!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Well, WE'RE BAAAAAACKKKKKKK :sad1: :sad: We miss the boat already! As we were arriving home, it was about 5pm, and DH was saying "wouldn't we be sailing out at the party right about now????" :sad1: :sad:

What a trip. I have a boatload (sorry for the bad pun!) of pictures, I just need to actually get up off my duff and unpack the bags and the camera card to get them! Won't happen til at least tomorrow!!

I am hoping to remember all the details from this cruise. For all the EDC friends I did get to meet, you all are awesome. For all those who participated in the FE exchange, you all rock! :thumbsup2 Those gifts were awesome: creative, helpful, useful, GREAT!! Thanks so much!!

Lindsey and Sydney already miss the "Disney Boat" in fact Syd was saying "bye Disney World, bye Disney Boat" even in the car back in Baltimore! Our next cruise can't come back soon enough. I just dread the fact that it will take us at least a 6-8 hour plane flight to get there!!

Our server was awesome. We have never had a female server (only female assistant servers) and she was just great! Just giving a shout out to our girl Katarina! :thumbsup2 Looking forward to seeing you on the Baltic!!

I just read over some of the posts from the cruise before ours. Glad I didn't get in the hot tub this trip!! Couldn't anyway, it was always jam packed with children!! :scared1:

Our room was great, we were on Deck 8, forward and it was soooo quiet. There was no one in the stateroom next to ours, and the 2 bedroom suite next to us didn't ever seem to be occupied either! I know they were there occasionally, but really, we never saw them!!

I was a bit surprised that we had Captain Thord this trip. They say the captains rotate every 4 months. Didn't know that! He seemed nice though, and he did steer us away from a horrible hurricane, so he gets the thumbs up from us!!! :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

Lindsey lost a tooth on this trip, and not only did the tooth fairy bring her some Disney dollars, but TINK showed up with a Magical Moment certificate and Pixie Dust for her too. Our stateroom hostess was awesome!! Thanks Renee!!!:cheer2:

Well, I really need to get to bed and get some sleep. Hoping to start the details sometime tomorrow!! See you real soon!!!

[mindelmouse]

Jen - I cant' believe after all that I never got to meet you.....

this trip was amazing. We upgraded to a suite at the terminal (I couldn't believe how cheap it was to do it)...you won't believe how awesome the service you get is. A shout out to our concierge team - Nicole, Erika and Andreia.

We have the most awesome table staff....if they are all like Joyce and Gideon, we were all treated like royalty.

Need to get my thoughts together about a trip report...may just fill in on others.

happy to answer any future cruisers questions, since that's what helped me the most before I sailed.

I'm so sorry it's over..:eek:

[jollytammy]

I can't wait to read more of your TR!!! Sounds like you had a magical time:thumbsup2

[frdeb1999]

Looking forward to your TR! :)

[wuv tigger]

It truly WAS a great cruise for us!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

So we can start with the pre trip stuff. I frantically made our RE, FE gifts, packed, shopped, packed more, repacked, unpacked, made lists...you get the idea. Here is a picture of our FE. I made it, and it wasn't nearly as pretty as those fellow EDC's FEs, but hey, it was ours!

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SReaOBdElZI/AAAAAAAAB8g/LOE3BJI_F1E/s400/DSC00118.JPG

And here is one of the magnets I made for our fellow EDC mates!
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SReaUVqqXGI/AAAAAAAAB84/i0-gumzzlsc/s576/DSC00122.JPG

So, as I said, I packed, and unpacked, etc, etc, etc. I even weighed the bags, so as to not incur any extra charges on the airplane. Only packed 4 bags total, one of which was a "carry-on" so we should be OK as far as the bag requirement, right? I think you see where I am going with this... but I am getting ahead of myself!!

The girls were quite excited. My countdown clock finally had gotten to 0 Days, and they were bouncing off the walls the night before. I did finally manage a bath and bedtime, but not without a struggle!

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SReahGi33tI/AAAAAAAAB9A/qClaOYCHG9M/s576/DSC00166.jpg
They needed to sleep together. So much for buying them bunk beds! :rotfl:
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SReajOVeS7I/AAAAAAAAB9Q/6WxL4j2kq1U/s576/DSC00169.jpg
Ahhhhh, Disney Dreams...:love:

Wednesday, I first had to take a wonderful detour to an obnoxious dentist who I had to see for an emergency crown (since I broke my one tooth the night before!). 2 hours later I had a temporary crown, and Syd and I were running late to get home, throw the bags into the car and go get Daddy and then Lindsey from school! But we managed to get on the road, and the kids were thrilled to finally be leaving for Disney!!

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SReakR1NiMI/AAAAAAAAB9Y/2xn_UdxkQTo/s576/DSC00170.jpg

Made it to the airport, and "Daddy" went to park the car while we waited.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SReamdFRNbI/AAAAAAAAB9o/jD0UWqZP3Us/s576/DSC00172.jpg
It was 45 minutes before the flight was to close, and I had to start checking in the bags or they wouldn't make it! And Ron was no where to be seen. :scared1: Of course, I go to check the bags, and the woman tells me the weight of one of the suitcase is fine BUT.............................. you knew it was coming! My bag was 1 inch over the limit! She SAYS my bag was 63 inches and could only be 62 inches!!! :scared: What the heck??? Then she weighs the next bag (same type suitcase), and says it weighs 8 pounds more than it should!! So I told her not to charge me for an overweight bag, that I would move clothes around, since I had 4 bags, and she made me move down the counter and unpack and repack my bags AGAIN!!!!:mad: Bring the overweight bag back, and she measures it, it passes as 62 inches (and under the weight limit). :confused3 Umm, excuse me, but they are the SAME SUITCASE. EXACTLY THE SAME SUITCASE! But one is 63 inches, and she charges me an extra $39!?!?!?!?! Other bag, fine, no charge. Gotta love AirTran!

We make it to the plane just as they are boarding, since having to repack cost us about 15 minutes of time. But we made it, and were safely on our way to Disney. Let's hope our trip goes smoother!!!!

[MaryAz]

Loved your Pre Trippie. Could your girls be any cuter?? We are doing the special western next Nov-not exactly the same trip but our girls will be the same ages as yours. Cannot wait for the next update. Love all the pics!

[podsnel]

Hi Jen!!!

I am so glad I got to meet you at the "show that wasn't" (for us, anyway!). You know why DS9 wouldn't go? One of the cm's told his group that there was something on stage they were NOT supposed to touch, and if they did touch it, it would burn their hands like acid!:sad2: So he was afraid to go anywhere near the stage after that! Oh well...

Your girls are even more adorable in person, if that's possible!!:cutie: :cutie:
Thanks for that AWESOME magnet, I LOVE it!!! You are very creative!!

I'll start my TR eventually- I have a lot of work to catch up on right now, so I'll have to enjoy our cruise through your report in the meantime...:thumbsup2
Ellen

[wuv tigger]

I am so glad I got to meet you at the "show that wasn't" (for us, anyway!). You know why DS9 wouldn't go? One of the cm's told his group that there was something on stage they were NOT supposed to touch, and if they did touch it, it would burn their hands like acid!:sad2: So he was afraid to go anywhere near the stage after that! Oh well...

Ellen


I found out about it after asking the Club Counselor what is was & where it would be & what time we were to be there.

[podsnel]

I found out about it after asking the Club Counselor what is was & where it would be & what time we were to be there.

Yep- that's the one! We were at Bingo and stayed to watch the show- Pods went back to the room for something and there was Timmy! He did do all the rehearsals and stuff, he likes to be on stage and sing- they just freaked him out with the "acid" talk!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Sorry you guys missed the show. As El knows, I had to convince Lin to go on stage, and then I only got her to go up there because she saw Paige checking in and going up the side door... Syd never did go, but I did get her a shirt! :thumbsup2

So we spent 2 days in WDW, and the parks were EMPTY! We walked on each and every ride! Even Soarin' and Space Mountain! It was crazy! The only long line we had was the one waiting for Tinkerbell in Pixie Hollow!! We hit all the rides in Fantasyland up until 10am when Toon Town opened. We got into the Judge's tent and got to the que line for Tink by 10:05am. Do you know how long the line wait for Tink was at that point? Any guesses????
.
.
.
.
4 hours!!! :scared1: :scared1: Are you kidding me??? We waited about 1/2 hour initially to see if the line went quicker than they thought, and figured in people dropping out of line as kids got tired. But then DH got tired of waiting and we had a little "spat" and left the line. We did try going back around 5:30pm and it was a 90 minute wait (which ended up to be just under 1 hour)

Waiting for Tink:
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRjTM0n8ExI/AAAAAAAACB4/jk6SXcfUDAg/s576/DSC00197.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRjTOrFh1_I/AAAAAAAACCI/CvsXAVQLEaQ/s576/DSC00199.jpg

Growing smaller as we get to Tink. Notice the light of Tinkerbell over head! Sorry its blurry!
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRjTcEANpII/AAAAAAAACCY/6pdlTm_Dg6A/s400/DSC00204.jpg

Shrunk to the size of a Mushroom!!
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRjTdXHjzlI/AAAAAAAACCg/x8GmpSA8Y6U/s400/DSC00205.jpg

Pictures of the Fairy room:
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRjTf0waCBI/AAAAAAAACCw/Z3BBaJYCtTA/s576/DSC00207.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRjTmjYoYXI/AAAAAAAACDU/t6RrV9dN1Kw/s576/DSC00211.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRjTuljOZOI/AAAAAAAACDk/W72ljjUmpz0/s576/DSC00215.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRjTzG4qtLI/AAAAAAAACDs/cDOb92IV-t8/s400/DSC00217.jpg

Sorry for the detour from the "Ship" but I was really excited to meet Tink!!

We went back to our room tired as could be each night. We didn't go to the MNSSHP this year, since I knew the girls wouldn't make it the whole night. But we got to see all the rides we wanted on the days we were there since the parks were so empty! We didn't bother with characters (except for Tink and her fairy friends) since we would see them on the ship. We did do a bunch of Pin Trading, since we had a bunch from our last cruise to trade. The girls also really enjoyed squishing pennies at the different machines we found around. We didn't go searching for them specifically, but we did squish them when we found a machine. It was fun!

We didn't get to go ToT at Downtown Disney, since I was sick again! Couldn't be away from the bathroom, and it was terrible! Trying to pack for the cruise (repacking bags so we had a "day bag") while sick. And we had to get it done Friday night, so we could get the bags out by 9am on Saturday Morning to go to the ship! I think I finally fell into bed around 11pm that night, and just barely got the bags out in time on Saturday morning!

But that meant that we were that much closer to getting back on the Magic! Stay tuned for the bus trip and first hours on the Magic!

[bfosbenner]

Jen - I cant' believe after all that I never got to meet you.....

this trip was amazing. We upgraded to a suite at the terminal (I couldn't believe how cheap it was to do it)...you won't believe how awesome the service you get is. A shout out to our concierge team - Nicole, Erika and Andreia.


I'm so sorry it's over..:eek:


We made friends with Erika on our 2004 western. She was in Treasure Ketch then. She sent DD Rachel (then 8) a camera as a gift on her bed one night after DD had mentioned she used all her film by mid week. We have kept in touch ever since. We only got to see her twice this cruise as the suite guest keep her busy.

[mindelmouse]

We made friends with Erika on our 2004 western. She was in Treasure Ketch then. She sent DD Rachel (then 8) a camera as a gift on her bed one night after DD had mentioned she used all her film by mid week. We have kept in touch ever since. We only got to see her twice this cruise as the suite guest keep her busy.

but since she is now the concierge manager, we dealt more with Nicole and Andreia. Nicole was training Andreia to replace her, since she was supposed to leave the ship with us on Saturday for her 2 month leave, however, she got rangled into staying another week to help our at guest services. Erika gave my kids so many neat little gifts it was amazing.

[SweetSpot]

Erika has to be one of the sweetest people on the ship. We met her in 2005 when she was the concierge. She made it the most magical trip for all of us but especially our DD. We have stayed in touch with her over the years and look forward to seeing her every year. I hope DCL really appreciates how special and talented she is and keeps promoting her.

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

So, as I said, I had been sick the night before, so I was really tired Saturday morning. I had planned on getting up and all packed by 7:30am, but slept in a bit, and ended up frantically throwing things into the suitcase just before the 9am luggage pickup time!

Then we headed off to Breakfast with my parents, before they headed back to Georgia and heading off on the bus. Olivia's at IKW is really a great little spot to eat, and the people were so great. I think it was the perfect place to eat before we headed out to the REAL Key West!

After breakfast, we explored the pools and playground of OKW. We just didn't have a chance to swim, not only because of time, but because it had been too chilly!! But I think we will definately go back to OKW, esp. to enjoy the pools and all!

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRea8bMgFYI/AAAAAAAAB94/-w6JtBeK_Xs/s400/DSC00238.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRebICGnRxI/AAAAAAAAB-A/sATA_5Grq9U/s576/DSC00245.jpg

Ahhhh, what a welcome sight!
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRebLJO8dMI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/VQd-CCJ8a6g/s400/DSC00248.jpg

Another welcome sight!! That terminal is so beautiful! I can't wait to go to the Baltics on the cruise, but I honestly can't imagine that the port in Dover will be nearly as gorgeous...
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRebNUOuZFI/AAAAAAAAB-k/o5KLREVf4pg/s576/DSC00250.jpg

Checking in at the Kids Club! Please don't strangle your sister!
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRebOegpUaI/AAAAAAAAB-s/CmLZNj0PT2U/s400/DSC00253.jpg

And heading through the MAGIC portal
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRebPUZnILI/AAAAAAAAB-0/OsgaFr3kIFE/s576/DSC00254.jpg

After our first picture with the ship photographer, we headed off to our stateroom. It was so nice and easy to find, we were the immediate stateroom off to the left from the aft elevators on 8! Although, once we added all our beautiful EDC magnets, it wasn't really hard to find our stateroom either!

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRo-KfJrseI/AAAAAAAACFg/mNhEsGS4eSA/s400/DSC00544.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRo-LgA2yPI/AAAAAAAACFo/5qk370kd4to/s576/DSC00545.jpg

We then headed up to Topsiders to eat.....SHRIMP!! Topsiders is open til 3pm on embarkation day, in case anyone is wondering. We got there around 1:30 and ate! We also got to meet Margaret, her DH and Paige while we were eating. Those green wristbands really worked wonders on finding EDCs!

The girls eating:
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRebQ6qYeHI/AAAAAAAAB-8/VuyNVpqpXrY/s576/DSC00255.jpg

After eating, we went to explore the ship:
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRebUM-ClPI/AAAAAAAAB_E/KG4nCc3lfc4/s576/DSC00256.jpg

And especially went to explore the Kids Club! They girls love to play in the Oceaneer's Club, TOGETHER. But apart, it was a harder task! Since they are 3 and 6, they were in separate groups many times. But they did have fun exploring together on the first day!

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRenQlyc5gI/AAAAAAAAB_k/5ozjt8mT2Fk/s576/DSC00257.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRenVtnS9nI/AAAAAAAAB_8/eHp1W5YqvCw/s576/DSC00261.jpg

Lindsey on the slide!
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRenW38gh3I/AAAAAAAACAE/DJaoZ-zJqKk/s576/DSC00262.jpg

Sydney enjoying the ride too!
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRenYU9OghI/AAAAAAAACAM/6c7AfIuPOS4/s576/DSC00263.jpg

the Club Stage!
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRenbLigiMI/AAAAAAAACAc/Q50O5mJ-uK0/s576/DSC00265.jpg

Lindsey can hula hoop with the best of them, she even won the hula contest!
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRenfcZMYWI/AAAAAAAACAk/OityQbPDI2k/s400/DSC00416.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRenit5CVUI/AAAAAAAACAs/8_fWsd1WHl4/s576/DSC00415.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRenpz5XR_I/AAAAAAAACA4/V1Wzfx5_mRI/s400/DSC00273.jpg

Trying out the computers in the Club!
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRenq6oOT5I/AAAAAAAACBA/h4ILNiEoXc4/s400/DSC00274.jpg

The Treasure Chest TV and "Shell Couch"
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRenr7nmt2I/AAAAAAAACBI/hA7pZjVe_xo/s576/DSC00275.jpg

And finally, posing with our HSM "friends" :)
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRentGg-UFI/AAAAAAAACBQ/VUngNkyNDdo/s576/DSC00276.jpg

The girls had a great time exploring, but Mommy needed to head back up to the bathroom. My stomach was not liking something the past few days! So the girls checked out the verandah awhile, and then the lifeboat drill. Unfortunately, due to my tummy issues, we missed our DIS meet at 3pm in the Lounge. :guilty: I really wanted to meet everyone I had talked to over the last couple of months! I take comfort in knowing that I did get to meet some of our EDC friends through the week, though!

Coming up: fun and the lifeboat drill, a brief time at the Sail Away party and heading off to our first dinner with Yolanda (yes, Brent's wife who is such a great person!) :lovestruc and our fabulous servers, Katarina and Joe...

Stay tuned for more pictures, enough to satisfy your MAGIC curiosity, or bore you to death!!! :rotfl:

[Keggy]

I am following along! Great report!

[nobodycares]

Thanks for posting the club pics. Since our DD is 14, we never saw that area of the ship.

Looks great.


We enjoyed our cruise with the Election Day Castaways!!! Can't wait to go back.

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

So, after exploring the Kids Club, we headed up to the room to unpack and "such." Our bags were already outside our stateroom, which was actually pretty quick this time around! We had LOTS of space to put away clothes, candy, gifts, books, toys, the list goes on and on. I have to say that the Category 4 staterooms are quite roomy for a family of 4, and I didn't feel like we were cramped for space or anything. In fact I had a couple of drawers which were empty as well as a shelf in the bathroom that was unused! Trying to travel lighter. :rotfl:

Looking into the cabin (and out the verandah!)
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuEzUf0M9I/AAAAAAAACG4/HN_Gj-DFhEE/s576/DSC00278.jpg

Another view "into" the cabin
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuE0BkCjTI/AAAAAAAACHA/Cz05nwODEx0/s576/DSC00279.jpg

View from the verandah into the cabin
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuE1WVOFNI/AAAAAAAACHI/S_VZPRZmUJY/s576/DSC00280.jpg

Looking out of our verandah at the Kennedy Space Center!
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuE2gHIzBI/AAAAAAAACHQ/pWoIUCllIh8/s576/DSC00281.jpg

Looking out our verandah to the forward of the ship: looking at the UGLY Carnival ship next to us!
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuE32VySjI/AAAAAAAACHY/DPhYJmbs0A8/s576/DSC00282.jpg

We also had already received our stateroom gift for being a Castaway Club Member, here is a picture of the "goodies" spread out on the bed! The mesh bag is missing, not sure where I threw it before taking the picture!
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuE69jLcWI/AAAAAAAACHo/7fbOI2zUf6E/s576/DSC00284.jpg

Before I knew it, it was lifeboat drill time. Its the first time both girls have smiled while wearing them! Last time, Syd had to wear the infant one with the hood, and I can imagine that was uncomfortable! But they did OK with these!
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuE9Zdk2SI/AAAAAAAACH4/-fZhoo_yU34/s576/DSC00286.jpg

Sydney making the most of her time while waiting for the drill to sound!
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuE-6i0DeI/AAAAAAAACJs/1_Lcu4Tn50U/s400/DSC00287.jpg

Mommy and the girls ready to go to the lifeboats!
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuFALr9BTI/AAAAAAAACIM/bgOHs_oE8aA/s576/DSC00288.jpg

Now, I have to ask. Is there anyone who doesn't take a picture of the family in their life jackets? Really, why do we do this? If we ever have to really use them, we probably wouldn't be smiling... Just a question to ponder...

Once the drill was over, we headed up (briefly) to the deck party. Some pics of the DDs and DH:
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuFBMfyh9I/AAAAAAAACIU/__xbFjkq6dM/s400/DSC00289.jpg

Can you tell Syd was already tired!
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuFCA9AzKI/AAAAAAAACIc/wt_aN091a24/s400/DSC00290.jpg

And a picture of the dancers on stage, and Wuv Tigger and family in the DIS green in front of us! Hi Judy!!
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuFDvkyeJI/AAAAAAAACIk/RBIwlfJoFWY/s576/DSC00291.jpg

Gee, its taking me awhile just to get through the first day, and it was only a half day, really! :rotfl: All these pictures and trip report are going to take me til the Baltic cruise to complete!

Next, we will be finishing out the day at Parrot Cay (or "Pirate Cove" according to Brent and misguided tourists!), along with a few pictures of the Welcome Aboard Variety show (including one of our own EDC's on stage with Ron Pearson!)

Night all. Gotta go. It's my birthday today, and now I'm tired AND old! :rotfl: Need some beauty sleep!!

[plutospup]

Great trip report! It's fun reliving our cruise.
I have to agree, Yolande was excellent! She was charming, gracious, and went out of her way to make us feel welcome.

[plutospup]

Sorry, double post

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Yes, Yolanda was great. She is a bit on the shorter side, but definately nice looking! She was so nice to the girls. I will post a picture when I get to that point, I don't think I had one of her til later on in the week!

Ahhhhh, I miss the MAGIC. Can I go back NOW!:rotfl2:

[funkemorgan]

We leave for our cruise tomorrow. Our first.
I am so excited and reading about your great trip has got me :yay:

[wilma-bride]

Great start to your cruise - I am so excited to read more. I really need to do a longer cruise. Would love to do the 2010 Baltic but DH is convinced it's far too expensive and we're still trying to save for the WDW trip in Oct 09. Still, I reckon I've got a little while to persuade him since they're not selling out particularly fast.

[princesspaige]

She was so upset on "Get off the boat day" that she refused to say bye to any of her friends. :sad1: We still talk about everyone we met and what a fun trip it was. I am glad I can relive some of the days thru your trip report. Keep it coming. :)

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

The girls miss Paige too. :lovestruc :sad1: Syd every once and awhile will start talking about her friend in the Club, and then describe Paige. Its very sweet :lovestruc

And as we drove off in the bus? "Bye Disney Boat" "Bye Paige, bye Emily"

And mommy said "Bye table service, clean up, housekeeping and turndown service. I WILL MISS YOU GREATLY" :lmao:

Oh, and MISS YOU ALL TOO! Just really miss the food and service. Esp. after a long day at work!!:goodvibes

[LivingtheWDWdream]

What a great start your girls are adorable and your photos are wonderful. We took our first and only cruise so far in May 2006 and we weren't big photo takers then now I wish we had been. So I am glad I can read tr and remember our special trip!

More please!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Thanks for the wonderful replies! Glad to know there are some people actually reading my TR! :rotfl2: Thought I'd bore the pants off everyone!

More tomorrow. I can barely keep my eyes open right now. TGIF!!!

[TotallyAngelic]

HI

We left the ship the day you got on - in fact we probably passed you on the way back to Orlando as we passed so many DCL buses and I just wanted to turn back around and go the other way. I am still suffering from horrendous post cruise blues - just have to keep reading trip reports to cope with it I'm afraid, oh and I have booked a cruise for 2010 to try and chase my symptoms away.

I am really enjoying your trip report - I wish I had taken a Disney Cruise with my children when they were younger - you really see the magic in their eyes - we will have to wait for grandchildren now (although not too soon I hope).

By the way don't expect anything like the DCL terminal in Dover - in fact the lower your expectations are the better! Last time I was there it was basically a cross-channel ferry port and nothing to shout about, although it was a long time ago.

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

So we sang, we danced, I got sprayed will Silly string :headache: and along comes....come on, sing it with me

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2odoQQ54U8A

Now, don't tell me that didn't bring tears to your eyes! pirate: Oh, yeah, baby!!

We stayed for a bit, then went back to our stateroom to get ready for dinner. We had 5:30 seating, in Parrot Cay, so I needed to get some more clothing unpacked, so we knew we would have something decent to wear to dinner!

Pictures of the view from the verandah as we headed out to sea:
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuFF_0PQrI/AAAAAAAACI0/9x-_jLSpBt8/s576/DSC00293.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SRuFGgDwznI/AAAAAAAACI8/Ss9kkJmcaFQ/s576/DSC00294.jpg

As I said, our first dining room was Parrot Cay. Our rotation was PLAAPLA, or Parrot Cay, Lumiere, Animator's, Animator's, Parrot Cay, Lumiere's, Animators. It worked out that we had formal night at Animators and Semi Formal night at Lumieres. I love having the "Til we meet again dinner" at Animator's, not sure why, but I like the atmosphere for the Baked Alaska presentation and the showing of the flags!

I think this is the only dining room (besides Palo) that I didn't take a picture of the menu, so sorry about that! But here are some pictures of us at Parrot Cay. We were table 42, which was on the Starboard side of the ship.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SR4OsKNVKRI/AAAAAAAACKI/YTSskTfHATM/s576/DSC00295.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SR4Os5WctwI/AAAAAAAACKQ/67ZGnr3QQwE/s576/DSC00413.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SR4Ot0nAFyI/AAAAAAAACKY/rEKdTjw7TwU/s576/DSC00298.jpg
Notice, if you will, the large bowl of cherries on the table in front of DD. They LOVE cherries, and would eat them day and night if they could. So our Assistant server, Joe, brought out the bowl full of cherries the first night, and already had them set out when we arrived every other night of our cruise. The girls, of course, love that! :lovestruc

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SR4OvIjESVI/AAAAAAAACKg/49vPmuC4Ze8/s576/DSC00299.jpg
Now, notice, if you will, the manner in which the ketchup is presented. No, not just a blob of ketchup on a plate, or in a little cup. No, this ketchup is special, this ketchup is tasty, this ketchup is....... :lovestruc Mickey:lovestruc

After dinner, we did a bit of shopping, and then headed to the show. It was the Welcome Aboard Variety how, with the story of a couple and their son, Jeremy going on the Disney Cruise, mixed with live entertainment from various comedians. Of course, Jeremy is kinda woven into the shows during the cruise, and the story ends the last night with the family leaving the "Magic". Here are some pics of the show (taken WITHOUT A FLASH). Thanks to Brent and Christian to announcing before each and every show to not use cameras with flash, and to enjoy the show as "live theater" is meant to be enjoyed. I think it really helped ALOT to curb the flashes throughout the show!!

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SR4OxjPLJ2I/AAAAAAAACKw/hFrnh2FlgzM/s576/DSC00301.jpg

Some of the Ron Pearson show...
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SR4Oyv1kVGI/AAAAAAAACK4/fa2HMR9Guq4/s576/DSC00302.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SR4OznPRVHI/AAAAAAAACLA/WslECn3pZj4/s576/DSC00303.jpg

End of the Variety show:
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SR4O1Y9tQ9I/AAAAAAAACLQ/UizgVKSVX6o/s576/DSC00306.jpg

And our towel animal and "spread" on our bed when we returned to the room:
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SR4O2WbZ5EI/AAAAAAAACLY/JyHKH548OaY/s576/DSC00307.jpg

And so the evening ends, and the trip begins. Our bed was VERY comfortable, and we were rocked to sleep and slept like babies!!

[mindelmouse]

Jen,

You know we didn't get to meet on the ship, but we were on the same dining rotation and didn't really know it. We were at table 12. When we were at Lumiere's it was the table closest to the back door or where they were making the cherries jubilee....I'm sorry I didn't get to meet you guys...since you, after all, were the one who introduced me to the Disboards....I was going to do a trip report, but didn't take as many pictures to show. We were down the hall from you on the boat too....we were aft and we moved from our original room to a suite by the aft staircase. I passed your room on my way to a bridge tour...I remember seeing it from your photos....

[MaryAz]

I cry everytime I hear that horn! Great update!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Mindy:
There were many DISers around the ship I saw by the bracelets, but since i didn't go to the DIS Meet on Saturday, I had no idea who was who, and didn't want to just approach people. I am actually more shy in person than Online! ;)

Glad you had a great time, and were able to join us over here. I felt bad I hadn't gotten back to you on the other boards, I just take too darn much time on these boards, then my laptop battery dies, and well, there it is! Hopefully you can post some of your pictures. I'd love to see you guys!

MaryAz: I know, you just can't beat the horn. I think that's the reason I made my way up to the party even though I wasn't feeling well. You can't start the cruise without hearing those magical tones! :cloud9:

I wore my DCL shirt today. Pink, with a heart in the center, with the ship and Minnie and Mickey , then Alice, Tink, Mermaid and Flounder. It was 70 degrees here in Maryland for some reason today, then a front came through and the temperature dropped by 15 degrees almost instantly! :sad2:

Syd is currently doing her "Cinderella Dancerella" tape right now. She laid out her dance mat, and is doing all the moves while twirling in her little skirt. Its cute. Of course, she takes a break now and then to suck her thumb, but its still adorable! :love:

Finally finished 5 loads of laundry today. I can't figure out the math... I did 3 loads of laundry (white, light and dark) on Cozumel day. SHHHHHHH that is my secret. If you don't go ashore, you have the laundry room on 7 COMPLETELY TO YOURSELF! I have to say, the new washer and dryers were great! I only had to wash each load once, then put each one in the dryer for 45 minutes (1 cycle, $1) and everything was clean and dry! Only thing I didn't get out was a ketchup stain (imagine that!) :sad2: from DD's white shirt. I think the new machines are great!

Anyway, 3 loads on Wednesday. :laundy: Then 2 loads on Friday, then packed up the bags except for a few items DH had stored somewhere and not put in the laundry "bag". :sad2: I had finished all the laundry before we left too, so I didn't have any clothes lagging from before we left, so.....

to continue the math problem....:teacher: (God, I love these smilies!)

How is it I managed to accumulate 5 loads of laundry this week? I didn't do laundry last weekend, but shouldn't have really had much from the trip since I had done 5 loads during the trip. Oh, wait, add the other 2 I had done while we were at Old Key West. So, 7 loads during the 10 days we were on vacation...

And, in the 7 days we have been home, my children have managed to destroy the house. No easy feat when we were rarely home this week, due to dance lessons, late nights at work and other such activities...

I need a magic :laundy: fairy, and a cook fairy, and a housekeeping fairy. Where are Tink and her fairy friends when a girl needs them! :rotfl:

Gotta catch up on some DCL forum reading. Then I hope to be back to continue with the journey. Onto Day 2, Key West!!

[podsnel]

Hey Jen-

When you're done with those fairies, send them up here puh-leeeez!!! I can't seem to get rid of the ever present laundry, either.:confused: But I am down to just the hanging-bag-of-post-cruise-dispair to get rid of now....

By the way, I didn't think you were shy at all! You're a sweetie, inside and out, calm and cool and just lovely:cutie: ....wish I could have seen more of you!!!

E

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Before I go onto the Sunday Highlights, I thought I'd put in some details from the Navigator for Saturday. That one is chock (is that really a word?) full of info, not only for that day, but for the whole week. I haven't had a chance to scan the Navigator's yet, so hopefully this can answer some questions people may (or may not!) have!

Highlights of the Day (from the front page):

Adventures Away: Earn your status as VIP sailors at this high-energy celebration. Join your cruise director, BRENT, the Cruise Staff and the Disney Characters as we kick off the official start to your Adventures Away! (Walt Disney Theatre)

Mickey Mania Game Show: Put your family's Disney knowledge to the ultimate test, or play along from our live stuido audience (Studio Sea)

Family Dance Party with Soul Drive: Live music fills Rockin' Bar D as Soul Drive play popular dancing music for our family dance party (Sessions...just kidding, wanted to see who was paying attention!)

Magic Quest: (for guests 18 and older) Enjoy the wildest and wackiest scavenger team event (Rockin' Bar D)

Match Your Mate: Discover just how well you know, or don't know, your mate! This fun adult game show is always full of surprises! (Rockin'Bar D)

OK, is it just me, or do you see ALOT of activity in Rockin' Bar D?? Maybe they should rename it "the place where all things happen??" ;)

Other notes:
ALL ABOARD: 3:45pm
PORT DEPARTURE: 5:00pm
Evening Attire: Cruise Casual
Dinner Menu:
Animator's Palate: Show Dinner
Parrot Cay: Island Dinner
Lumiere's: French Dinner
Drink of the Day:
Bay Breeze (alcoholic)
Mango Crush (non-alcoholic)
END OF DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME! Turn your clocks back 1 hour!!


Just for the Kids:
Floudner's Reef Nursery: infants and toddlers, by reservation only
Oceaneer Club: 3-7 year olds, potty trained
Oceaneer Lab: 8-10 year olds
Ocean Quest: 11-13 year olds
The Stack Teen Club: 14-17 year olds

SPECIALS:
Spa: book and receive today, $30 off any spa services worth over $100
Wine:classic wine package is only $189, and the premium package is just $292
(don't ask me what is which and which is what. I don't drink nearly enough to justify the wine packages! I will, however, be glad to post the specifics should I find them in a Navigator somewhere!)
Internet: $.75 a minute, pay as you go
100 minutes for $55, 250 minutes for $100, or 500 minutes for $150
Parkwest: OK, there is just too much drama and controversy on this one to give any details. Basically, bunch of art stacked and hung in the hall adding to the narrow-ness of the 4th deck hall from the Atrium back toward the Aft. Seemingly daily art auctions, one of which sold a Donald Duck painting for a bargain price of $9900! :scared1: Sorry, that is as much as my Baltic Cruise, and I don't like Donald nearly that much! :rotfl:

And the all important information on the bottom of the back page:
No Reserved Seats Policy As a courtesy to all Guests we kindly advise that the saving of seats is not permitted in the Walt Disney Theatre, and the saving of the sun-loungers is not permitted on Deck 9 and 10
There, as it is stated, written in the gold box on the forsaken Navigators for all to ignore! :rotfl:
Walt Disney Theatre Theatrical performances may use artificial fog, strobe lights, pyrotechnics and other special effects. For the safety of our performers and the comfort of those around you, the use of flash photography and video recording is PROHIBITED

Thank you Brent and Christain for reminding all the knuckleheads who usually take pictures throughout the show that it is impolite and a really PITA for the performers. As a former stage person myself, I can attest to the fact that it is quite distracting if not completely blinding to have flashbulbs go off while you are on stage. Can you imagine someone sitting in a Broadway theatre taking pictures through the show? All the New Yorkers would hog-tie the person and drag them out in the alley! And I say that as a former Long Islander! :rotfl2:

Well, enough of THAT. Anyone want to know the movies too?

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Thanks Ellen. I too was hoping to see more of you! I searched and searched each day, and really only saw you and DH when I found pictures! LOL I was so happy to see you at least briefly when you sat with me at the Friendship rocks show (that wasn't!)

Oh, Here is a list of the movies that were playing in the Buena Vista Theatre during our week on board the Magic:
WALL-E (G)
College Road Trip (G)
Miracle at St Anna (R)
Beverly Hills Chihuahua (PG)
High School Musical 3(G)
Swing Vote (PG-13)
Tinker Bell (G)
Morning Light (PG-13)
THe Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (PG-13)

There are now 27 channels on your stateroom TV. Some of the shows in your room are (OK, besides the ones YOU may create, but we won't mention those!) :banana:
DISNEY CLASSICS: Aladdin, The Black Cauldron,The Jungle Book, Cinderella, Peter Pan, Pinocchio, The Sword in the Stone
DISNEY FEATURES: Dinosaur, Fantasia 2000, Lilo & Stitch, Brother Bear, Mulan, Toy Story 2, The Tigger Movie
FEATURED FILMS: Hancock, Kung Fu Panda, Corpse Bride, Get Smart, Ghostbusters, Speed Racer, Iron Man, Leatherheads, Indiana Jones Crystal Skull, The Haunted Mansion, Kit Kittredge, Hocus Pocus

I'm going out on a limb here, and thinking that many of the movies on our cruise were due to the close proximity of Halloween for our Cruise Week. Not sure how often Corpse Bride, Ghostbusters, and the Haunted Mansion are really played on the TV. :confused3

There is an extensive list of Duty Free Liquor available on board, as well as Cigars. Cigarettes are listed as "US Brand Cigarettes 21.95 per carton" I can also scan this list if anyone is dying to know. I don't visit the Duty Free shop, so I can't comment on anything other than what is listed on the sheet provided in the Navigator!

[LivingtheWDWdream]

Thanks for all the wonderful info from the navigator will help me plan our western cruise in 2010 :)

Good luck with the laundry though I don't envy you there!

More please :)

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

;) You're welcome. ;) ;)

I hope you have a fabulous cruise!

[MaryAz]

Jen
Thanks for all the info. Cinderella Dancerella Hmmm, I am still Christmas shopping. Good luck on the landury!

[mindelmouse]

[QUOTE=Mom2PrincessesLinSy;28739046]Mindy:
There were many DISers around the ship I saw by the bracelets, but since i didn't go to the DIS Meet on Saturday, I had no idea who was who, and didn't want to just approach people. I am actually more shy in person than Online! ;)

Glad you had a great time, and were able to join us over here. I felt bad I hadn't gotten back to you on the other boards, I just take too darn much time on these boards, then my laptop battery dies, and well, there it is! Hopefully you can post some of your pictures. I'd love to see you guys!


I've never posted pictures before and I've started writing my own trip report for us to keep with our pictures....it took me 4 pages to describe our first day at the MNSSHP. My husband wants to post it, but it's just too long...I'll see if I can upload some pictures of my kids and perhaps you'll recognize them from the dining room. I'll have to do it in another post because the pictures are on my husband's computer and i can't get them from here.

[mindelmouse]

Can't seem to figure this one out...may try again tomorrow

[jedijill]

You need to upload them to somewhere online like Photobucket. We can't (and you don't want us to) access the drive on your home computer. :)

HTH

Jill in CO

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Sorry, back to last night really quick! I think I forgot a very special Magical Moment for us. DD was bound and determined at the show the first night to get her tooth out. I could have something to do with the fact that I *may* have told her that Tinkerbell *may* also make a visit along with the Tooth Fairy when you lose a tooth on board the ship. :confused3 I'll never tell! :goodvibes So she was at it the whole first 15 mintues of the show, and finally her persistance paid off, and there was a tooth! This kid is going to make me broke, I swear! She always seems to lose a tooth when we travel, which you know costs WAY more than if you just lose a tooth at home. She's making a killing!!
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIn1b5AKiI/AAAAAAAACtY/fulGAjA_McI/s512/DSC00308.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIn2ZWpc7I/AAAAAAAACtk/K2015ksYVUE/s512/DSC00309.jpg

So, when we got back to our room, we found a small Ziploc (thanks WuvTigger) and put her tooth in it. Then the tooth fairy could find it much easier! ;) The tooth fairy left her a note about how excited she was to be able to come out off the "Mainland" to get Lin's tooth, and left her 5 Disney Dollars and 2 regular dollars. Good thing I hadn't spent all their Disney dollars in WDW!! :rotfl:

We "slept in" a bit on Sunday morning. As I said the Tooth Fairy made an appearance, and Lin was really excited. Even moreso because the Tooth Fairy's note also left a hint of a possible Tink visit. What the heck did I do to myself? Hopefully I could pull that one off sometime today!

We went to breakfast up at Topsiders, where Syd got her first taste of the Disney drug called "Mickey Waffles" :rolleyes: From then on, breakfast, lunch and dinner she asked for "Mickey Waffles". Unless, of course, she asked for 2 hotdogs at dinner WITH KETCHUP, but first she always asked for Mickey Waffles. I need a Mickey Waffle Iron for Christmas! :sad2:

We knew we weren't getting into port until about 12 noon, and really the only thing we felt we *had to do* was go to the DVC Member event. Well, actually I felt that it was something I had to do. DH said he "wasn't interested". He went anyway, since when we returned to our stateroom after breakfast, Renee was cleaning our room.
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIn6pwa8HI/AAAAAAAACuE/9aHsOTApHmw/s512/DSC00313.jpg
This was how she had arranged Ariel, and all HER fairy friends in our room!

DH didn't have anywhere else in particular he wanted to hang out while waiting for the room, so he decided to join me and DD...:rotfl: ahhh persuasion! We first dropped Sydney off at her Kids Club to Do-Si-Do with Snow White. She had no problem going, put her hands right out for the soap, and headed off to the bathroom to wash her hands. Makes a Momma pround and sad at the same time! :cloud9: Lindsey, not so easy.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIn3YGV8UI/AAAAAAAACts/buYj8rsfZeA/s640/DSC00310.jpg
She didn't want to stay in the Lab to make Flubber. No way.
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIn5DUspEI/AAAAAAAACt8/OMxmRAZvKks/s640/DSC00312.jpg
Crying, clinging to me. Seriously. She may be smiling in that picture, but if you look closely, there is tear in her eye! And she's the older one! She ended up coming with us to the Club event!

We got there right at 10am, since my eldest chose to be difficult and not stay at the Oceaneer Lab, WHERE CHILDREN WERE HAVING FUN. So, there was nary a seat, and we sat on the edge of the room, where we could see a Plasma screen, but not much else. Met a couple from......????? any guesses???? yeah.... BINGO..... New Joisy (and I say that as a Jersey girl!) Didn't win any prizes, but did get our DVC hats, which enabled us to get our DVC Pins which enabled us to trade for other pins we really wanted. :cutie: Its a calculated system!

After Snow White had ended, we ate a quick lunch and then headed off to Key West. We were greeted by this as we came into port:
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIn7SK1rMI/AAAAAAAACuM/oZilLAtKXCU/s640/DSC00314.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIn8mb3dAI/AAAAAAAACuU/itNhTc_1lqU/s640/DSC00315.jpg
Um, excuse me, is that a machine gun you're holding or are you just happy to see us? :lmao:

We got in a smidgeon early and were cleared to go ashore by 11:45am. We chose not to do any tours, since we had done the Key West Tour/Shipwreck Historeum/Aquarium last time. Instead, I wanted to see the Hemmingway house, and DH wanted to find a Key West Sweatshirt. He got his sweatshirt, all I got was this:

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIoKXmN0tI/AAAAAAAACu0/__5HMiGhVSA/s640/DSC00320.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIoMKHf2LI/AAAAAAAACu8/Oe_QN7zmH3c/s640/DSC00321.jpg

Yeah, a waiting line for the house. And its 6 toed cats. Wasn't worth waiting for with 2 hot and cranky kids, and timed entrances, so we headed back towards the boat by way of Duvall Street. Always a sight or 12 to see!

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIoNbdOctI/AAAAAAAACvE/xIgCKH8PXh4/s640/DSC00322.jpg
Yes, friends, that ever so beautifully painted RED building with the "stained glass look" and RED paint was a lovely little eatery called "Better Than Sex" :sad2: I should have known!!

On our way Lindsey found (to quote the late great Crocodile Hunter) "this little beauty. Isn't she GORGEOUS???" Well, maybe not so little, but very cool!!
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIoOjk1E3I/AAAAAAAACvM/DSUlsGygTxI/s512/DSC00323.jpg

And there is nothing better than coming by the one, the only (OK, we found another in Cayman) but Margaritaville. Where not only the music is entertaining, but also watching the people who had only been off their ships for a mere hour or 2 but were already three sheets to the wind? Who says you have to wait til its 5 o'clock somewhere? :lmao:
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIoQGj8dyI/AAAAAAAACvU/Kpng6hFz4lM/s640/DSC00324.jpg

I did not get my camera out fast enough, but on our stroll down Duvall, a large group of Phillie Fanatics paraded down the street, apparantly still celebrating their glorious World Series win days before. Looking much like a bunch of people in a Mardi Gras parade, complete with beads, face painting, the works. Not sure if any came off our ship. Might not want to know!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

We passed the large pitchfork people on our way back to the Magic, and got a few pictures. Thanks so much to whoever's DH ever so graciously offered to take the family pic for us. Of course, I mentioned we too were an EDC, and he said "oh Yeah, from those DIS boards. I am the DH" LOL I somehow think that he, much like my own DH, just doesn't get it...

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIoXLV4XJI/AAAAAAAACvc/T9IcdJJhDZE/s640/DSC00329.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIoYQpZxTI/AAAAAAAACvo/8qgqinFd_gk/s512/DSC00330.jpg

And some pictures of the girls and the Magic on our way back:

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIomxt6_FI/AAAAAAAACvw/v1YpnsAqDE8/s640/DSC00332.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIoIhm1BmI/AAAAAAAACus/gaXPHqPhnpU/s640/DSC00319.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIoHXUAx_I/AAAAAAAACuk/etSFj5ST2Ys/s640/DSC00318.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIoGTugvjI/AAAAAAAACuc/o6zamFkvVP4/s512/DSC00317.jpg
Isn't that water just gorgeous? At what point in the US Eastern Seaboard does the water turn from the murky brown we have in Maryland/NJ/NY to this beautiful clear blue? I need to know!

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIony_wZtI/AAAAAAAACv4/J_d475W_obY/s640/DSC00333.jpg
Yes, Welcome Home friends. I think that sign will be even more welcoming when we are in foreign ports in Europe!

Once back on the ship, we took advantage of the more empty (and less windy) Mickey Pool and did a bit of swimming!
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIoo37TJgI/AAAAAAAACwA/ch6oxn7__W8/s640/DSC00334.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIozLs4cnI/AAAAAAAACwI/5eO9ENXeB2Q/s512/DSC00336.jpg

And sliding:
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIo0KENfBI/AAAAAAAACwQ/MWfaof6HC6Y/s512/DSC00338.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIo1f-L6RI/AAAAAAAACwY/4P1Zlk-4E7Y/s512/DSC00339.jpg

Swimming in the Mickey Ear:
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIo6NExCaI/AAAAAAAACwg/02Fwvm-X71k/s640/DSC00341.jpg

Sunset in Key West:
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIo6x29j7I/AAAAAAAACwo/NfjqlPKLF9E/s640/DSC00342.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIpG8TP5zI/AAAAAAAACww/rBxFJLuK9XU/s640/DSC00345.jpg

We had reservations for Palo that night at 6pm, so the kids had no choice but to go to their clubs tonight. Dropped them off before "Transition" to dinner, and let them eat with their friends at Topsiders. Then they each had a PJ party, one with Simba and one with Goofy, where they got to make their own pillowcase.
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIpaw7ZLpI/AAAAAAAACxQ/NWxKk3XQdlQ/s640/DSC00352.jpg


We had a GREAT window seat at Palo, where we got to watch the "other ship" sail off, and see the remaining sunset. It was awesome! :lovestruc Some pics of Palo:
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIpSUTVBAI/AAAAAAAACw4/qTdmDguxh7Q/s640/DSC00348.jpg

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http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIpUafoI8I/AAAAAAAACxI/dl-9gSwh7sQ/s640/DSC00350.jpg

We went back to get the kids before the show, "The Comedy and Juggling of Ron Pearson", and Lin eagerly came with us, but Syd, NO WAY! She wanted to stay in her Princess dress and color her Simba pillowcase. No amount of coaxing worked!
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIpaw7ZLpI/AAAAAAAACxQ/NWxKk3XQdlQ/s640/DSC00352.jpg

The show was great, Ron Pearson was even funnier the second night with more time to enjoy! DD loved him so much, she wanted to go see him in the theatre the next night too. I think the balancing the ladder on his face seemed to really get her attention!!:rotfl2:

After the show, we did get Sydney to come out of the club with us, and headed up to our stateroom. On our bed, we found:
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIpcmNXxTI/AAAAAAAACxg/HvIQun9YtNk/s640/DSC00354.jpg
Amazing the things they can do with a couple of towels and a pair of sunglasses!;)

And, of course, we especially found (on Lindsey's bed)
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIpeYu7Q4I/AAAAAAAACxo/4rxHW1jdGTU/s640/DSC00355.jpg
Gotta admit, those stars are a PITA to pick up, since the points stab you in the fingers as you scoop them up. But we managed to salvage almost all, put them into a baggie and bring some real "Pixie Dust" home to Maryland!

Night all. Tomorrow, a relaxing (???) day at sea.

[MaryAz]

Great update and pics!!

[plutospup]

Great pics! It's nice to go back and relive our cruise.
Had to laugh at the comment about the confetti/stars/pixie dust. We still have an envelope full from our 2004 cruise, and we managed to fill another one from this cruise.

[podsnel]

Oh, I LOVE the pixie dust!!!!:love: :love: :love: That is sooooo cool!! :love: We were at brunch in Palo when we docked, so I missed the guns and ammo show- also, brunch was at 10 am, so we missed the DVC presentation (although I did get our hats later from them), and I never saw any pins!:confused: Anyway- glad to read about our trip!:thumbsup2

E

[angelkk]

And, of course, we especially found (on Lindsey's bed)
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSIpeYu7Q4I/AAAAAAAACxo/4rxHW1jdGTU/s640/DSC00355.jpg


Hello Mom2PrincessesLinSy,

Wow, how did you get the certificate for Lindsey? In other words, how did Disney know? Did you inform the stateroom host, or at Oceanneer Club? What a magical tooth fairy memory :thumbsup2

[disneyfaninaz]

When we were on our cruise in March we sat with a family from Toronto. She wasn't a DISer. When her son lost his first tooth on board, I told her to go to Guest Services and tell them. She was thrilled when the "tooth" fairy left something special for him.

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Yep, DisneyFanInAz is right. I went to guest services and asked what I could do to get something done for Lin since she lost her tooth. They took down the room number, child's name and said they would take care of it.

I also let them know she was sleeping on the top bunk so they knew which bed to put the "stuff" on.

I honestly wouldn't have known to go to guest services if it wasn't for this board! I went to guest services under the guise that I was giving the desk our pillowcases to be signed. I did do that, but also asked about the Magical Moment then too.

I put the pillowcases in a plastic ziploc with a black fabric marker for them to sign. They said they would be returned by Friday, I got them back by Wednesday!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

So, just like the Saturday highlights from the Navigator, here are the Sunday highlights:

Walt Disney Theatre: The Comedy and Juggling of Ron Pearson (Walt Disney Theatre)

Diamond Jackpot Bingo: Four CASH prizes and fantastic shopping prizes to be won, including your chance to win a beautiful Diamond pendant. (Rocking Bar D)

Port Adventures: various excursions leaving anywhere from 12:15pm til 1:50pm on Key West

Special Promotion: Treasure Ketch-when you spend $60 or more (like that's a tough one!) in one transaction you can purchase an exclusive DCL Rolling Duffel bag for $20 *NOTE* this is a VERY important offer considering its a whole extra bag for less than the $39 that Airtran charged me for the extra inch of my suitcase. I was bound and determined to get the bag(rolling duffel) while in WDW at DTD, but I didn't get a chance to get back there since I was sick. So, I was so happy to see the offer on the boat too (plus it had the DCL logo instead of the WDW logo!!)

NOTE:
ASHORE: approx 12:30pm (we were allowed ashore by12pm)
ALL ABOARD: 7:30pm

Evening Attire: Cruise Casual
Dinner Menu:
Animator's Palate: Show Dinner
Parrot Cay: Island Dinner
Lumiere's: French Dinner

Drink of the Day:
Key Lime Margarita (Alcoholic)
Coco Bali (Non-Alcoholic)

Fun for the Whole Family:
Paper Plane Making
Diamond Jackpot Bingo
Disney, Dali and Destino
Family Crafts
Origami Flowers
Chip It Golf
Cruisin' for Trivia
Live Painting
Spa Jackpot Bingo
Who Wants to be a Mousekeeter?

Adult Exclusive Entertainment
DVC Member Celebration
Disney's Art of Entertaining
College Club Social
Singles' Mingle
Sundown Sounds
Piano and Vocal Favorites
Steve Morris: Adult Cabaret
Rockstar

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

So, after a lovely day at Key West, we settled into bed, and slept like babies yet again! Our room was really great this time, quiet, not too much movement, we loved it!

Monday was a "Sea Day" A day for relaxing. A day for doing nothing. A day for..... exploring! We ate breakfast at Topsiders for breakfast, for what? Yes, that is correct! Mickey Waffles! (and fruit!)
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd9rEHtiRI/AAAAAAAACyg/LtRjVcbMWqw/s640/DSC00356.jpg

And we discussed the day's plans, which didn't make my DD very happy.
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Would she go to her kids club today? No! Would she PLEASE go to...

Stitch's Great Adventure? (hey, are we in NJ? Oh wait, that's called SIX FLAGS now!) No, my child won't go to that one today (even though she said she wanted to!)

Mousekeeter in Training? YES! Sydney would go to that one. With the promise to see Mickey, or some other big fully creature, we were able to drop her off in the Club. Lin, however, came with us to the Castaway Clubhouse Meet.
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Saw the usual video about the Making of the Magic, recent update film footage from dry dock (all playing on your stateroom TV as well!) Video of Tom McAlpin promoting the upcoming 2010 cruises, and video of the DCL "home office" Then, a "guest" appearance by our captain!

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Prizes were given away (DCL Clocks). People were cut-throat to get them! Sorry to those who left early and didn't stay to hear that you onea prize! The people there were ready to hunt you in your stateroom and take the clock from you!!

The afternoon was lunch, the girls still not going to the club, and my MASSAGE!! :love: Yeah baby! In was a 1/2 hour upper body massage, and she really dug in deep to try and work out the KNOTS in my shoulders. I signed in, and was taken right back. Brought back to a room, which smelled heavenly and was dimly lit (mood lighting?) Got undressed (waist up) and laid down on the massage table. Lovely woman, worked hard at getting out the "kinks", including using her elbows to really get down deep! :scared1: Definately helped, I felt better, but still had knots. I will need to get a massage every so often at home just to keep my shoulders "loose." :rolleyes1

After my massage, back to the stateroom (conveniently just immediately below the spa) and sat down with the girls. They had been watching Kung Fu Panda with Daddy (for the 50th time already in 3 days!). Lindsey had said she'd go to Ratatouille cooking school (to make chocolate chip cookies) but she didn't. Did Syd want to go to Toy Story Boot Camp? "No thank you" UGH!!`It was a bit windy and chilly up on the deck, so we explored the ship, looked at pictures in Shutters, colored in our stateroom, sat on the verandah and watched the sea go by. It was lovely...

Finally, we did get the kids to agree to go to the Lilo Aloha Party, probably because it was a combined kids club, instead of a group of 3/4s and 5/7s. We peekied on them, and they seemed to be having a good time!

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We left them to hang a while longer (they loved the free time to go up and down the slide, and up and down the slide, and up and down.... well, you get the idea!) And we got ready for formal night!

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd97cx1OSI/AAAAAAAAC0E/iArgm0DNHZs/s512/DSC00412.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd99Gr9JFI/AAAAAAAAC0M/cosY2SOgmqE/s512/DSC00411.jpg
One of these pictures I will get them both to smile NICELY!!

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd9-m0CDnI/AAAAAAAAC0U/q2k8jbvbvhc/s640/DSC00410.jpg
Please, just once???

We waited in line for the cathedral type stone background, and I have to say, that photographer did not do as well as some of the others. I cannot remember his name, but he only took one or 2 pictures of all of us, then one of the girls, and one of just Ron and I. We chose not to wait on line for any other background pictures, since we had done all the others on previous cruises. There are some that I definately prefer over others (like the Magic with the Mickey Head sunset) but we weren't going to wait on line for them and end up late for dinner! We headed back to Animators for the Show dinner..... well maybe not!! Its Golden Mickey's night, and that means a Golden Mickey's menu!!

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd9_r3VwCI/AAAAAAAAC0c/X48fNEQToUI/s640/DSC00372.jpg
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-Ow7pv5I/AAAAAAAAC1o/vOOwARenjWE/s640/DSC00382.jpg

We had a great table, right next to one of the TVs but also at the entrance to the galley. Its OK, though, we had it to ourselves!
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-A7R0NkI/AAAAAAAAC0k/QylMEocTCBo/s640/DSC00373.jpg

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http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-I1y4E8I/AAAAAAAAC1Y/qe7atNFrGHs/s640/DSC00380.jpg

Some of the Animator Pictures:
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-EVPXfmI/AAAAAAAAC04/U066x7x5pS4/s640/DSC00376.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-IK0CU2I/AAAAAAAAC1Q/AePo2xL_t2o/s640/DSC00379.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-M_DuY8I/AAAAAAAAC1g/Zcb-WreZ2FA/s640/DSC00381.jpg

Dinner was great. I had the Broccoli and Maytag Bleu Cheese Soup (wonderful!!) and the Parmesean Cheese Souffle. For my entree, I had the Beef Wellington, Ron had the Duck. Both were very tasty, and we were quite filled as always! The girls? Any guesses? Minnie Cheeseburger (WITH KETCHUP!) for Lin and 2 hot dogs (WITH KETCHUP) for Syd. Life is good... ;)

Dessert was really great (isn't it always?) Ron had the Creme Brulee, and I had.... drum roll please...
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-PxdsfDI/AAAAAAAAC1w/8zxa4e7prLM/s640/DSC00383.jpg
Yes, much like most diners, the Mickey Chocolate Award. The girls loved the fact that the "ticket" was all chocolate, and stole it and ate it! Darn them! It really did remind me of the White Chocolate glass slipper desserts we had at our wedding. They were filled with Chocolate Mousse, and had a raspberry sauce with a chocolate powder image of the Castle on the plate. Ahhh, chocolate!

We then headed to the stateroom, to see if we had our Navigator for Tuesday yet, but no. Just a towel animal!
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-TQ64CvI/AAAAAAAAC2Q/IDiUPKpEtX8/s640/DSC00387.jpg
Not sure how an elephant figured into the night's show, but hey, what do I know?

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

We left to get seats for the show early, since we KNOW this show ends up as STANDING ROOM only! The halls are nicely decorated for the show...
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-UgRwg5I/AAAAAAAAC2Y/J_5b7DL8hWc/s640/DSC00388.jpg

And the Stage is set!
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-VQzPaRI/AAAAAAAAC2g/IdPNN2YlK9c/s640/DSC00389.jpg
And On with the show!

Not sure if I can link back to any of my previous posts, so you don't need to search back, but there are pictures of the Golden Mickey's taken on the last cruise which came out really well. I will remind you that they were taken without a flash!!

It was an awesome show. One that gives any Disney fan goosebumps and brings tears to your eyes (esp when the Drawfs appear on stage!) ;) After the show (can't tell you details!), we took the girls to the Royal Ball in the Club to see.....

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-ggI_00I/AAAAAAAAC3s/7_vEBCPAIJY/s640/DSC00398.jpg
Snow White!! Just kidding, wanted to see if you are paying attention!!

Back later with more pics from the Royal Ball, where you can see my girls and Paige excitedly dancing to the direction of the Royal Princess herself! princess: They are soooo cute!!

[wuv tigger]

great TR!!!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Hey Judy, I hope you are feeling better! I am going slow on the TR right now since its coming up on Turkey Day and I am swamped at work! One of my staff went home yesterday, and the doctor told her she has the flu and will be out the whole week! UGH!! Its starting already!

I am hoping to post some more in the next couple of days. Maybe after we go to see Santa tomorrow! It seems I got off the ship, blinked and now its Christmas! AHHHHHHH!

[wuv tigger]

I only took 2 naps yesterday :lmao: I am doing so much better especially when I remember how sick I was this time last week. :sick:

I am so thankful for our wonderful friends who have helped us out the last week. :lovestruc

I hope to get to my tr later this weekend.

A Very Happy Thanksgiving to ALL the EDC's!!

[wuv tigger]

I don't know how to insert pix.

It was SO cool to see folks come & go right below our window. The girls loved it!

wuv tigger

[LITTLEKID58]

Love you tr and all the pics.. TFS

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Love you tr and all the pics.. TFS

LIz, you are on my Baltic Cruise in 2010!! How cool!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Ok, time flies when Thanksgiving comes around! I hope I haven't lost all my avid readers who have given up on me in their pursuit of recent pictures and stories of the Magic! :lmao:

First, a note! I guess they switched up all the Crew on us, since when we were on board we had Brent and Captain Thord, and now its back to Christian and Captian Tom! Not a bad thing, all are great, but where did they go?? Questions to ponder!

When I left off, I promised more pictures of the Royal Ball.
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-ZdtuODI/AAAAAAAAC24/iSEA2ULzeK8/s640/DSC00392.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-an-5CYI/AAAAAAAAC3E/-_BHCCtPP3o/s640/DSC00393.jpg
Man, I gotta get a Cinderella costume. You can make your kid do almost anything including bow to you when you wear it and wave your magic wand! :rotfl2:

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-bg36oaI/AAAAAAAAC3M/SNkhhZa02TI/s640/DSC00394.jpg

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http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-hjXwWRI/AAAAAAAAC30/srwgXRj8Ia4/s640/DSC00407.jpg
Lindsey having some fun with Paige (also known as Alice in Wonderland on this cruise!)

Hanging out with Tick Tock (who didn't Tick or Tock while we were there!)
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http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/SSd-lYgSLQI/AAAAAAAAC4M/H_z24NV1kOQ/s512/DSC00403.jpg
She is such a ham!

Up next, a very soggy trip to the Cayman Islands, including Turtles, Butterflies, and a few Fruits....

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Tuesday came upon us, rather quietly considering there was "a hurricane a comin'" We decided to do room service for breakfast today, since we had no where to be until our afternoon excursion, and we wanted to be lazy! :cloud9: We put our breakfast card out the night before, and our breakfast magically appeared for us at 9am (we asked for "delivery" between 9 and 9:30am) We did receive a mysterious phone call just before 9am, which I assume was Room Service giving a little call to make sure all were awake and decent for breakfast ;)

I had ordered a bunch of everything, figuring that everyone could pick at what they wanted. I had cereal, donuts, bagels, croissants, apple juice, orange juice, milk, and butters, jellies and hot tea. Didn't order cream cheese, however, and its quite difficult to eat a bagel without it!!

Sadly, my crew snarfed up the food before I could get a picture of the spread, so suffice it to say they enjoyed it! Sydney, however, was looking for, yes, you guessed it. Her Mickey Crack, er, um, Mickey Waffles, of which they have NONE for room service. But with a bit of distraction, each of them gathered up their food, and went to their respective cave (bed) to wolf it down. All the while, we watched Kung Fu Panda for the 600th time, and also some other Disney classic video or another (can't be sure, DH kept flipping through the channels!)

We got ready leisurely, and sat out on the verandah watching the views. It was cloudy. And rainy. And dreary. But warm. Very warm. And we were going to have to take a tender ashore (I hate having to take tenders to shore). But this trip we would actually be able to GO ashore, which we couldn't the last time we were in Cayman. On the last trip it was so rainy and rough that not only did they cancel all tours and tenders after about 9am, but they moved the ship to the other side of the island to anchor! I know that there were probably some people who had managed to get on shore that were freaking out that they no longer saw the boat, or had to go to a different dock to board their tender back! Glad I wasn't them then, and glad we didn't have to worry about it this time!

We did run up to Topsiders for a quick bite for lunch before boarding the tenders. We waited until after 11am so we didn't have to wait for the tender ticket, sit and be called to go ashore, etc. etc. We also tried that last time, and we waited and waited and waited, and Lindsey got cranky (she was 18 months old at the time) and my Dad got cranky (he was 58 years old at the time!) :sad2: So, we never got ashore last time.

Boarding the tender was a smooth process. The usual check your KTTW card at the podium, then head out to the small, rocky boat, precariously tied to our larger and more stable ship with men in yellow slickers at hand to hold on to each poor sucker trying to manage their balance and get on the little boat without falling into the water. Tricky, when the little boat keeps bobbing up and down. But here are some shots I got once we got aboard the little dinghy!

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Another terribly ugly ship docked near us!
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/STH4hb0MWyI/AAAAAAAAC5k/TwfCzrpHmaA/s640/DSC00418.jpg

So we safely made it ashore. A bit damp, a bit chilly, but safe and not too bad a ride considering the weather. We got to the dock about 1/2 hour before our scheduled excursion time of 12:10pm (Island Tour and Butterfly Farm) and waited around. I tried to "check in" twice before they finally were accepting our tour times. They give you a limited window of check-in and when you get whisked off to your tour, so plan accordingly! Since we were told to come back around 12:05pm, we ventured across from the dock to do a little bit of exploring. Very little.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/STH4ofp-OII/AAAAAAAAC6c/ZSLqAsUVepw/s512/DSC00425.jpg
The obligatory pose in front of whatever island's sign is nearest to the dock. In this case, Grand Cayman's turtle pirate...

Across the street was a little market, full of either bars or jewerly shops, neither of which we were very interested in. Also a tiny store called the "Book Nook", but we weren't much interested in buying old used books either. Should have gone in and gotten some postcards, since I wouldn't be able to get any beautiful pictures of Grand Cayman. :rolleyes: But we did find a few friends we found along the way!
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http://lh6.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/STH40xlJmnI/AAAAAAAAC6w/copnVYk3DpE/s640/DSC00431.jpg
Damn, that is one big......whatever the heck he is!!

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2_XmOtoDfvU/STH42XBplWI/AAAAAAAAC64/K2QF9ukASfg/s512/DSC00432.jpg
Posing with our large parrot friends who at least warn you before they bite your fingers off!

Ok, I admit, there was one picture I didn't get, since I didn't think it would be wise in front of the children. It was a large statue (life size) of a black male pirate, who's name was something like "Big Black Pirate Dick" or something to that effect. All the adults found him rather entertaining though, and there was always someone waiting to pose with him!! :lmao:

Time finally came for us to sign into our tour, and we got to the dock, under the cover when......

Yep, you guessed it. It started POURING out. Cats and dogs. Of course, we didn't get a towel, since we figured we weren't going on a tour which would require us to get wet. But boy, were we wrong! We should have gotten the damn towel! The lovely family behind us got some. And they were so happy they did, once we all ran, in a complete downpour, for the little bus that was about 2 blocks away. And, to top it off, we had to WAIT outside that little bus in the pouring rain while a family of 3 :rolleyes1 decided that THEY HAD to sit in the FRONT of the bus. Of course, they also HAD to remove their large backpacks from their backs which were UNDER their rain ponchos. They, of course didn't need those ponchos INSIDE the bus, while they were fiddling around getting settled in and we were ALL outside the bus standing in huge puddles in a sandy parking lot getting drenched, but hey, I digress. :rolleyes1 Those towels sure would have come in handy then, esp. when he turned the AC on full blast in the bus!! :scared1:

Alright, I admit. I should be more patient. After all, this was a vacation, and we were supposed to be having a good time darnnit! And seriously, move to the back of the bus people. Take a seat, move on, lets get on with the ride! OK. Sorry, bit sidetracked there!

So we headed off, and had a wonderful guide who's name was Ricky (like in "I Love Lucy") and who was quite entertaining and very knowledgable. First stop was the Butterfly Farm, where we got to see.....yes, butterflies, and a bunch of Fruit.....but I am getting ahead of myself! Stay tuned, friends!

[plutospup]

You're not kidding it rained! DD11 & I got soaked, while wise DW had the mysterious foresight to book a morning at the spa. Fortunately, DCL had towels where we waited to board the tender back to the ship.

[wuv tigger]

It took about 25 minutes for the tender to tie up to the Magic.:eek:

It was freaky that we would almost get there, then the ropes got tangled, then they dropped them, then try again. This was repeated TOO many times to count.

I was NEVER so glad to get back to the Magic!:cloud9:

Too bad the US Coast Guard couldn't help them :thumbsup2

[o4me2playn]

This makes me think twice about getting off this ship during our April 18th "adventure". I would HATE not being able to get back on the ship quickly!

[podsnel]

That was one rainy day- on our excursion we were getting wet anyway, so it didn't make a big difference, except when it poured!!

The "big one, whatever he is" is a Blue Iguana- they are only found in the Caymans, so kind of special (in the iguana world)!

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

:sad1: I'm sorry, my friends. I will most likely not be posting about the trip for a few days. I am very, very sad to report that a very good friend of mine died last night just after giving birth to her first child. She was only 32, a Physical Therapist and had no medical issues. She had a rare, but obviously fatal,complication after the birth, which resulted in cardiac arrest. After over 1 hour they were still unable to save her. :sad1: Her son is fine, and was born at a healthy 8 pounds 12 oz...

I am really in total disbelief right now, and nothing seems real. I want to pay a tribute to a wonderful woman who did so much for the kids she worked with (she is also a Pediatric therapist like I am). I know TRs are usually very happy times in our lives, and I need to get myself together before being able to talk about the joys I had celebrating the MAGIC with my husband and children. Especially since it will be something she and her family will never, ever be able to do.

Sorry for the downer. :sad1: :sad1: :grouphug: Please find it in your heart to give a prayer, or a thought for such a wonderful woman and her family. We are all so devastated at this time.

Thanks. I will resume with my TR and the MAGIC it held once I can get it together again. As they said on our last night on the cruise, "Remember the Magic". :grouphug: :flower3:

[Alice_on_WONDERland]

:I am very, very sad to report that a very good friend of mine died last night just after giving birth to her first child.

I am deeply sorry to hear of the passing of your friends. Her family, and yours are in my prayers. :hug:

[podsnel]

Oh, Jen, i'm so, so sorry- I can't even imagine what you must be feeling and what her family must be feeling. You're all in my thoughts and prayers- what a horrible and sad tragedy.

Hang in there-
El:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug:

[Sophie_2003]

Our thoughts and prayers added as well. It is such a tragedy that she will not share the joy in raising her son. May we all think about their family when we tuck our kids in tonight.

[mindelmouse]

I'm besides myself with sadness for what you must be feeling for your friend and her family...our prayers are with you

[o4me2playn]

I too am saddened by your news. My thoughts and prayers are with your dear friend's family and also with you and yours!

[wuv tigger]

Hugs to you as begin the next chapter of your life w/o your dear friend :grouphug:

[princesspaige]

Unfortunately I did not get any from the royal ball...:sad2: and to think it was the only time Paige wanted to be there....that was after being with her for 15 minutes. UGH!! I did notice DH made an apppearance in the background of one...he has a grey t-shirt on and has a goatee...really blends in. :rotfl2:

Every pic I see of dinner I try to find us...we were on the same rotation and time as you guys...I did see you and one of the girls leave and come back almost every night...;)

[princesspaige]

I guess I should get caught up before posting a reply. I am so sorry to hear about your friend. We will keep you and her family in our thoughts and prayers.

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

I guess I should get caught up before posting a reply. I am so sorry to hear about your friend. We will keep you and her family in our thoughts and prayers.

Its OK, honey. Its nice to look back through and try to be reminded of such a happy time, and the girls had such a good time with Paige.

The viewing was today. There were hundreds of people there, and so many flowers. Pictures of the baby, and, footprints of the baby with a card that said "thank you mommy" It has been one of the saddest moments of my life to see that. On a good note, the baby is coming "home" with his Daddy and grandparents tomorrow.

I may be up to posting some more "happy times" come the weekend. I think I can get myself together by then. Right now, just keep crying on and off through the day....:sad1: *sigh* sometimes I am just overwhelmed with the thought she is gone.:angel: Please keep them in your prayers, sorry to be such a downer. I promise my TR will be upbeat again soon!

[wuv tigger]

thanking his dear Mommy!

Hugs to them as they try to celebrate the holidays without their dear wife, mother & daughter :grouphug:

[tiggerlover2]

Our deepest and sincerest sympathy to you and your friend's family at this time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, and we wish everyone strength in the coming days as we approach the holidays. May the new year bring you solace in the memories of your loved one. Take care and may God bless you all and keep you in his tender care. Hugs to all! :grouphug:

[podsnel]

How's everything going down in Maryland girlfriend? Miss you and your TR- :hug:

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

sorry girls, to still be slacking on my TR. I am coming to terms with Teresa's move "home" but one of my little guys (Infant and Toddler babies) died on Sunday at the age of 4. He got Salmonella poisoning from a lizard his parents had bought his older brother as the "Big brother" gift when he was born. It was spread to him, and got into his spine and then completely mushed his brain. I am surprised he lived 4 years, since he was so seriously affected, but still its another tough death in the 4 weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas...:sad1:

I so badly want to reverse time to when we were on the cruise, and they were still alive and we were all happy. I'm hoping that Christmas brings the joy back...

Thanks for checking on me :grouphug: I appreciate the love...

[wuv tigger]

prayers being said for his dear family

and for his friends :grouphug:

[bfosbenner]

Perspective!

I makes our little problems not seem so bad.

:grouphug:

[podsnel]

That's just so sad- that poor family.:grouphug:

[heatherlynn444]

just found your TR and loving it. you have a beautiful family.

I am also so very sorry to hear about your friend, and so young, too. I will be praying for the family. :hug:

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

OK, I will be trying to start up and finish the report soon! Trying to get some things wrapped up at work for this week, as our yearly state inspection is on Thursday and we have some serious paperwork crapola to get in order! But I am thinking of you all, and missing our time on the Magic!

In some happy news, though. We looked into going down to Disney for the "Buy 4 Get 3 days free" promo, and guess what! SCORE!! We are going in 17 days! We are just staying at the Pop Century, but I like that one too (Ok, not as much as my Grand Floridian, but still, its cute!) We got 6 days of hotel, park tickets, and, are you ready, ROUND TRIP AIRFARE for......

anyone??



guess??



$1800:banana: Can I have a dancing banana over here? :banana: $1800 for the 4 of us, and then they give us a $200 Disney gift card to go with it!! SCORE!! Almost as exciting as the Ravens winning their playoff game this weekend. Ok, actually more exciting, but you know I had to throw that in! Esp. for those "Jersey week" people who are rooting for the Giants on Thursday! :happytv: :3dglasses

Anyway, I'm hoping to get back to some happier times in the next week. I'll have to read back and see where I left off! I think the Princess Royal Ball, but I need to check! Missing you all and hoping to maybe get the TR done before we leave in 17 days... oh who am I kidding, my TR will never be done!!

[podsnel]

Wow!!! That is excellent!! Lucky, lucky girl!:thumbsup2

And yes you will...finish it...you're practically there!

[LITTLEKID58]

OK, I will be trying to start up and finish the report soon! Trying to get some things wrapped up at work for this week, as our yearly state inspection is on Thursday and we have some serious paperwork crapola to get in order! But I am thinking of you all, and missing our time on the Magic!

In some happy news, though. We looked into going down to Disney for the "Buy 4 Get 3 days free" promo, and guess what! SCORE!! We are going in 17 days! We are just staying at the Pop Century, but I like that one too (Ok, not as much as my Grand Floridian, but still, its cute!) We got 6 days of hotel, park tickets, and, are you ready, ROUND TRIP AIRFARE for......

anyone??



guess??



$1800:banana: Can I have a dancing banana over here? :banana: $1800 for the 4 of us, and then they give us a $200 Disney gift card to go with it!! SCORE!! Almost as exciting as the Ravens winning their playoff game this weekend. Ok, actually more exciting, but you know I had to throw that in! Esp. for those "Jersey week" people who are rooting for the Giants on Thursday! :happytv: :3dglasses

Anyway, I'm hoping to get back to some happier times in the next week. I'll have to read back and see where I left off! I think the Princess Royal Ball, but I need to check! Missing you all and hoping to maybe get the TR done before we leave in 17 days... oh who am I kidding, my TR will never be done!!


This is awesome.. the weather been good here ... today it is going up to 82.. :goodvibes

[princesspaige]

of your awesome deal!!! DH has decided maybe we should go visit his sis in AZ instead of taking our planned cruise...:scared1: Looks like I have my work cut out for me...

I hope you guys have a fabulous time in WDW...

[podsnel]

of your awesome deal!!! DH has decided maybe we should go visit his sis in AZ instead of taking our planned cruise...:scared1: Looks like I have my work cut out for me...

I hope you guys have a fabulous time in WDW...

ARIZONA!!!!!! There's no Princesses in Arizona!!!!!!!:rotfl:

well...at least not the Cindy kind....

[princesspaige]

ARIZONA!!!!!! There's no Princesses in Arizona!!!!!!!:rotfl:

well...at least not the Cindy kind....


I know!!! That is what I keep saying...i still have 11 months to work on him...wish me luck...:wizard:

[podsnel]

popcorn:: popcorn:: Helllooooo??????

[princesspaige]

looks like Arizona is out and WDW may be in...:goodvibes :banana:

[podsnel]

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!:cheer2: :cheer2: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

[princesspaige]

I asked DH about letting me take DD on annual mommy and Paige trips during fall break...starting in 2011 when she will be in 1st grade...guess what...he said YES!!!!!!! :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

[Mom2PrincessesLinSy]

Saweettttttt!!! Any ideas on when you might go?

we just got back last night. It was CROWDED for January! We had to wait on line for the TTA! The TTA, can you believe it? GOt fast passes for Soarin' at 11am, and had to wait til 6:30 to go on it, then it was AN HOUR WAIT in the Fast Pass line! What the heck??

But, it was icy in Maryland this week, and 80 to 85 degrees in Orlando, so it was great. We stayed at the Pop, and the rooms are smaller, but the girls really liked it there, esp swimming in the pool!!

Ok, things are settling down here now. We had our state inspection at work and we passed. Feeling better since my emergency room trip just before New years,and gained back a few pounds (I had dropped alot of weight from being sick and dehydrated with the Norovirus). Hopefully I can get some time now to finish this TR! Probably no one interested anymore anyway, its old news now! :rotfl: But, I have to finish what I started, so it will continue!

Stay tuned for more! :thumbsup2

[plutospup]

Hi "Mom"! Glad to hear that your trip report will continue. I'm looking forward to the next installment!

[princesspaige]

It will most likely be in October of that year. That is when most of the schools here have fall break. It will be a long weekend type trip versus a full week so I don't have to pull her out any days, I will save those trips for when DH goes with us. DH said he was sad he wasn't invited :guilty: so I told him to plan his own daddy/daughter trip. My boss actually suggested Vegas!!! :scared: I passed the message onto DH but qualified it with "when she is 21". :rotfl2:

I am really looking forward to reading the rest of your TR. I have been reading Ellen's and occassionally make my presence known. For the most part I am a stealth observer. :)