We don't wanna go home!!! Nov 1-8, 2008 Magic Western [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

podsnel

11-17-2008, 05:23 PM

Hi there! I'm finally starting our trip report, it has taken over a week to get over our post-cruise-blues and back into life as we know it, which as it turns out, is complete chaos!:scared: No wonder we were all so sad to leave the Magic just a week and change ago....

A little backround on us- we are a family of 5, and I am the queen in a houseful of testosterone! DH & I have been married 22 years:scared1: and have 3 sons, DS14, DS11 & DS9. We love Disney. Ok, THEY love Disney. I am certifiably insane about anything and all things Disney related- drank too much of the kool-aid, I am probably just like YOU!:goodvibes So what took us so long to go on our first Disney cruise? We were waiting. You see, we were hoping we would all be going. Our DS14 is autistic, and we were waiting for him to be ready to spend a few days on a ship. Because he LOVES Disney. But, puberty is a crazy time, and this year he decided he would not be sleeping anywhere but his bed. Period. No sleepaway camp, no overnights at friends houses, no trips on airplanes to Grandma's in Destin. And DEFINITELY no cruises. But he's ok with that. And we're ok with that because we have our cousins, Sherree and Henry, who are so ok with that, they stayed here with him while the other 4 of us went to explore the western Caribbean!:banana:

Here we are in 2003, our first trip with all three boys-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/disney03115.jpg

And this is us 4 years later, Nov 2007 at the Brown Derby for lunch-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2007_111406summer0208.jpg

One more thing to know about me, in case we haven't met before- I LOVE food and I LOVE photos, so I promise to give you alot of both!!:goodvibes

I'll be back in a bit to start with our first trip home to AKV, a fast Boma dinner, and Halloween at MNSSHP!

See ya real soon,
Ellen

E&BMom

11-17-2008, 06:28 PM

Can't wait to hear more!!!:thumbsup2

podsnel

11-17-2008, 07:38 PM

We are from NJ, and that means we LOVE to go to WDW the first week of November when we have Teacher's Convention, and the kids are off from school for a couple of days no one else is. :woohoo: We booked this cruise on Nov 29th last year, I remember this because it's my birthday!:goodvibes We were all excited to be going on the Western, and I spent the following year preparing by obsessively reading everything ever written on this board and sleeping with my passporter under my pillow each night- well, almost. Anyway, it dawned on me :idea: about 5 minutes after booking the cruise that we could absolutely head down to WDW the day before the cruise and coincidentally stay at AKV for the first time! And, also by coincidence, go to our first MNSSHP and trick-or-treat in the Magic Kingdom ON Halloween!!!! I couldn't WAIT to share my brainstorm with my boys!!! And their response?

"Um, that's ok. We don't want to miss the Scotch Plains candy."

WHAT??????!!!!! I offer you the Holy Grail of all Trick-or-Treat nights, and YOU turn it down???!!!:scared1: :scared1: :scared1: Who's kids ARE these, anyway????

So I did a little research here on the DIS, and SELECTIVELY showing them only the reports that spoke of candy beyond all candyliciousness, they were convinced.:thumbsup2 THAT was a close one!

Time flew (read- dragged) by, and before we knew it, I was packing (and packing and packing) for our trip! A few days before we left, we had THIS incentive to get out of Dodge-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_103006summer0173.jpg

And DH and I got to go to this concert 2 nights before we left-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_103006summer0185.jpg

I LOVE The Who- I've seen them many, many times, but this was the first time I had such close seats that were legitimately mine!:rotfl: . Thanks, Tom & Evie!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_103006summer0204.jpg

OK- sorry for sidetracking...

We were flying out of JFK instead of Newark because of the $$$$ factor during NJ week- even though Newark is 20 minutes from home.:sad2: But we were lucky, we hit no traffic and the whole thing was painless. PLUS we were on a very cool Delta jet that had individual tv's, and we could play trivia with the whole plane- very fun! Even better, we struck up a conversation with the nice family sitting in front of us, who were from NJ, going to stay at AKV, going to have dinner at BOMA, heading to MNSSHP, and going on the Western!!!:yay: Like sitting behind myself...:rotfl: Before you could say, "BOO", we were on the ME and headed to AKV. My men were totally amazed by the grand expanse of the resort! Our room was ready, so we headed up to have a look at studio #5239 on the Arusha Savanna.

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Bathing suits were put on in a hurry, but first things first- we were hungry! So we made our way to the Mara. DH had some stew-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0009.jpg

DS11 had pepperoni kids pizza-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0010.jpg

DS9 had chicken fingers
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0011.jpg

And I had a burger-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0012.jpg

It was all fine- nothing outstanding. EXCEPT for dessert- my kids LOVED:love: those zebra domes!!!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0013.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0014.jpg

At the pool in the next post-

ReneaB

11-17-2008, 08:03 PM

Great start to your report....I am sooooo getting hooked on trip reports. My family is going on our first Disney cruise in January.
Love your pictures!
Renea

podsnel

11-17-2008, 08:18 PM

We were anxious to park ourselves at the pool, so that is exactly where we headed next-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0032.jpg

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I had gotten an underwater camera (Olympus 850) right before this trip (based on recommendations made on this board, of course! Wasn't that lucky I read THAT one! I didn't even know I NEEDED an underwater camera!:lmao: ). Really, I am VERY glad I got this camera, it came in very handy on the trip and it was fantastic not to worry about my camera getting wet.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0041.jpg

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After saying hi to our friends from the plane, and enjoying a frosty African beer and cocktail, we went back up to the room to watch some animals-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0048.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0056.jpg

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http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0058.jpg

So funny, the white pelicans walk in formation!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0060.jpg

As a new AKV feature, it seems they have added character visits to the rooms!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0061.jpg

I wonder what package THAT comes with!:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:

Observing those animals from your own balcony is priceless- the DS's were in heaven, they thought it was too cool.

Our luggage had arrived while we were at the pool, so we got ready for our big night! We dressed in our costumes, which a friend of mine who had been to MNSSHP before had suggested- we went as an all-sports team. DH-baseball, DS11 football, DS9 soccer and I was a cheerleader. Not the most elaborate costumes, but we were all a theme, and they were easy to wear on rides. Also, very easy to organize since we already had all the stuff- my kids play a ton of sports, and DH coaches alot of them. But first, we had an early ADR at Boma-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0065.jpg

Wow, is there a LOT of food at this buffet! It probably would have helped if we had not just had lunch a few hours before....but we had a schedule to keep! I tried 4 of the 5 soups, and they were all yummy-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0062.jpg

DS11 had fruit before the rest of his meal-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0063.jpg

Some of everything-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0064.jpg

Obviously, I was not yet in full-vacation-food-porn-picture-taking-mode, sorry about that- it gets better on the boat!:thumbsup2

But we weren't here for the food- we were here for the party!
On to MNSSHP!!!

Mom2PrincessesLinSy

11-17-2008, 08:25 PM

Yeah, El, way to add to the greatness of the EDC trip!! Can't wait to hear all about YOUR cruise, since I barely ran into you on the ship at all!!

As for DS, I thought since you gave out the Autism Awareness magnets in our Fe that DS may be Autistic, and I could sorta tell in the pictures, but I didn't want to ask and seem like a crazy loon! Its awesome your cousins' would stay with him, it is so hard for those kids to break from routines. I came home and told many of the families in our center that there were several children onboard with Autism, and they were hopeful that they too may be able to do the trip sometime. :) Sorry your DS wouldn't go this trip, but maybe next year? Pictures are worth 1000 words and a year's worth of preparation!!

Looking forward to hearing more! And now I'm off to update on mine! (I've been slacking!)

TTFN!

podsnel

11-17-2008, 09:48 PM

Can't wait to hear more!!!:thumbsup2

Thanks! I'll do my best!

Great start to your report....I am sooooo getting hooked on trip reports. My family is going on our first Disney cruise in January.
Love your pictures!
Renea

I totally understand- the TR's are addictive- before your 1st cruise because you can't wait to see what it's like, and then after....so you can relive it again and again before you go on the next one. The cruise EXCEEDED our expectations, it was AMAZING- you will love it!!!

Yeah, El, way to add to the greatness of the EDC trip!! Can't wait to hear all about YOUR cruise, since I barely ran into you on the ship at all!!

As for DS, I thought since you gave out the Autism Awareness magnets in our Fe that DS may be Autistic, and I could sorta tell in the pictures, but I didn't want to ask and seem like a crazy loon! Its awesome your cousins' would stay with him, it is so hard for those kids to break from routines. I came home and told many of the families in our center that there were several children onboard with Autism, and they were hopeful that they too may be able to do the trip sometime. :) Sorry your DS wouldn't go this trip, but maybe next year? Pictures are worth 1000 words and a year's worth of preparation!!

Looking forward to hearing more! And now I'm off to update on mine! (I've been slacking!)

TTFN!

Hi Jen!

Yes, i gave out those magnets as part of my FE gift because of DS14...I hope people will put them on their cars at home.:) They are actually a fundraiser for Autism Awareness. I do know autistic kids who have gone on DCL and had a ball- I just am not sure my DS is one of those kids. It's alot of unexpected commotion, and he might end up wanting to spend the cruise in the cabin where it's less chaotic. :confused3
Thanks for saying hi!:flower3:

Mom2PrincessesLinSy

11-17-2008, 10:20 PM

Hi Jen!

Yes, i gave out those magnets as part of my FE gift because of DS14...I hope people will put them on their cars at home.:) They are actually a fundraiser for Autism Awareness. I do know autistic kids who have gone on DCL and had a ball- I just am not sure my DS is one of those kids. It's alot of unexpected commotion, and he might end up wanting to spend the cruise in the cabin where it's less chaotic. :confused3
Thanks for saying hi!:flower3:

Totally understand hon. Totally understand. Make one false move, and your world becomes a Topsy Turvy dance in trying to calm a child who can't get his system together, while staving off stares from onlookers who don't understand. Its a careful balance of Ying and Yang, but where there is alot of grey!! (((hug)) I'm sure he had a good enough time in his secure predictable world at home, while you explored! Good for all of you!

MaryAz

11-17-2008, 10:32 PM

Great trippie. The view of the animals from your room was incredible. Also liked the underwater ones. Can't wait to hear about MNSSHP!

wuv tigger

11-18-2008, 06:59 AM

You GO girl!

Great trip report!

I gotta get back 2 mine. But my ears & eyes don't won't to cooperate. :sick:

Looking forward to your next installment!

wuv tigger

podsnel

11-18-2008, 09:55 AM

We waited about 5 minutes for the bus to MK- you KNOW we were lovin'
that! We were walking through the gates a little before 6 pm, which I thought was pretty good. Our 4 passes-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0066.jpg

And a quick pic out front-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0067.jpg

I was really looking forward to seeing the Halloween decorations. In 4 or 5 previous November trips, we have seen a lot of Christmas in various stages, but never this.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0070.jpg

Is head tilting genetic, or is it a gender thing?
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0071.jpg

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We asked the boys where to first, and of course, they replied, "the 3 mountains!".

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0074.jpg

The waits did not appear to be bad- maybe 20 mins for SM. And just as we were getting in line, a VERY nice young man said- "Hey, you guys want our FP's?":worship: :worship: So a 20 min wait became a 5 min wait, and we were hootin and hollerin on our 1st mountain. It is such a fun ride, but doesn't SM feel like all the nuts and bolts holdin' it together are going to pop out all at once and it's going to smash apart just as you're going the fastest?
Anyway, that left us to get over to the other 2 mountains in Frontierland. Of course, we had to stop for my favorite pic, DS11 in front of IASW. Nothing on the planet embarrasses this kid more than knowing there was once a time, in a lifetime far, far away, that he enjoyed this ride. So we always make a point of stopping here to sing to him and take a pic!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0075.jpg

What can I say? It's fun for at least 3 of us!:rotfl:

Now I know there was alot of talk on these boards about how insane sold-out MNSSHP would be, and that the crowds would be unbelievable. Well, it really wasn't so bad! As a matter of fact, we walked RIGHT ON Splash Mountain. I have to tell you, and I am embarrassed to confess, this was my first ride on SM. I hate big drops. And when we are here as a family, someone always needs to stay with DS14, since he also- hates big drops. And I ALWAYS volunteer to fill that position! But this was a special time- it was the one time we could all go on all 3 mountains together- so I sucked it up, and went for a ride-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_111706summer0058.jpg

I have to say, it was really fun! And while I had DS9 calmly telling me every step of the ride, "Ok, Mom, here comes a little drop, it won't be bad!",:hug: I also had DS11 telling me "Here it comes! The hugest waterflume drop there is!!":scared1: But I would definitely go again- next time with my eyes open!:rotfl:

After that, we walked right on BTMR- yes, that's right, at 6:40 pm, on Halloween, at sold-out MNSSHP. Even better, we had our pick of seats- and the boys chose the back car. And even better than that? When we pulled into the station, we were asked, "Do you want to go again?" because there was NO LINE. So, we rode again!:banana:

When we got off, it was 7pm, and you know what THAT means....time to Trick-or-Treat!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/2008_110206summer0078.jpg

We went through the first line really quickly, but apparantly an off-duty wicked-somebody-or-other was managing that stop, so we got ONE PIECE OF CANDY EACH. And were told we couldn't go in the line next to her! Uh-oh....we need mega candy or else there is going to be a serious mutiny before we even get ON the ship!!! Fortunately, pixie dust had been sprinkled liberally over the rest of the CMs and future grabs were much more generous. Especially as the night went on. Ridiculously so. If there was a long line at one stop, we just went to another line, and came back- then that line was gone and we could step right up! I have to say, by the end of the night, we could barely lift the bag- and we were only there until 10:30! And the candy- it was the candy from your childhood you had not seen in 30 years (some of it) which was really kinda cool, because people at home hand out the same stuff every year, and this was SPECIAL. Bit o Honey, Sugar Babies, Hot Tamales, Mike & Ike, Oh Henry, Whoppers, Clark bars...and all those Ghiardhelli squares handed out as you left the party, along with the regulars (skittles, etc)...cool!

Next it was on to the Boo-to-You parade...which starts with the ride of the Headless Horseman...
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0080.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0082.jpg

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Continued in the next post...

FormrCastMbr

11-18-2008, 12:06 PM

Hi Ellen! I found your TR! It was great meeting you although too short...I will be back to read - I have a horrible headache and trying to get this place clean for thanksgiving...

All the best!
Lauren

nzdisneymom

11-18-2008, 12:39 PM

Sounds like your pre-cruise stay was fabulous! Can't wait to read more.

wuv tigger

11-18-2008, 01:04 PM

What do the letters SPF stand for on your jersey?

podsnel

11-18-2008, 02:12 PM

Totally understand hon. Totally understand. Make one false move, and your world becomes a Topsy Turvy dance in trying to calm a child who can't get his system together, while staving off stares from onlookers who don't understand. Its a careful balance of Ying and Yang, but where there is alot of grey!! (((hug)) I'm sure he had a good enough time in his secure predictable world at home, while you explored! Good for all of you!

You have summed it up exactly right!:thumbsup2

Great trippie. The view of the animals from your room was incredible. Also liked the underwater ones. Can't wait to hear about MNSSHP!

The animals were very cool to look at at all times of day- and my kids were REALLY impressed! Which I was truly glad about, because prior to this trip, they had only ever stayed at BC, which is a very tough act to follow.

Hi Ellen! I found your TR! It was great meeting you although too short...I will be back to read - I have a horrible headache and trying to get this place clean for thanksgiving...

All the best!
Lauren

Hi Lauren! Thanks for coming out of lurkerdom to post on my trippie!! A million miles from now, YOU will be a part of it!:hug:

Sounds like your pre-cruise stay was fabulous! Can't wait to read more.

Thanks! It was ALLL fabulous!:yay:

What do the letters SPF stand for on your jersey?

Hi Judy! I'm so sorry you're still not feeling right! :hug: Did you use the patch? I think I read somewhere around here that that sometimes happens with bonine. When we slept at the BWV post cruise, we felt like the bed was moving all night (we don't get sea sick, so we like it!) and we were so disappointed to wake up and be on land- even in the gorgeous BWV villa! Hope you're feeling better, soon.

SPF stands for Scotch Plains/ Fanwood. Our two towns (Fanwood is a little one) share schools and teams, but we have separate stuff as well (different mayors, rec depts, taxes).

podsnel

11-18-2008, 02:36 PM

DS9 had started saying he was really tired (who could blame him- we had done alot today, and he was up at 5!) so DH offered to take him back to AKV, while DS11 and I stayed at the party. But first, the three of them went to see about riding SM one more time. I have to say, this was the time of night that started to feel crazy busy- between the parade and the fireworks. The rides seemed to be crowded, and the ToT lines were just silly. We saw THIS and I went out of my mind with excitement, but this was not the year we would be having our photo with this group. So here's someone else who was willing to wait in the line-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0115.jpg

I also stopped by the dance party to see this-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0119.jpg

The wait for SM was too long right then, so DH found me on Main St, and DS11 and I parked it, and waited to be dazzled by Hallowishes on Main ST. It was off to bed for DS9, and a glass of wine back at the room for DH.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0122.jpg

I'll be back in a few with the end of our night-

podsnel

11-18-2008, 04:29 PM

Hallowishes was spectacular. The music was fantastic, too!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0135.jpg

Sorry about the pic quality- I was not doing well figuring out the new camera, and of course there was no tripod!

DS11 wanted to try SM again, and lo and behold, the wait time was back to 5 minutes right after the fireworks! My tummy was a little flip-floppy (I was starting to get really tired, too) so I waited for him at the exit. We did a little more ToTing, and then he wanted TS- somehow, that ride never fails to please!! We never made it to HM, I don't know how I let THAT happen, just a little too tired there at the end. We got out of the park at 10:30, weighed down by a TON of candy. I guess the CMs are very anxious to hand it out after the fireworks on Halloween night!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0126.jpg

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The bus ride took all of 12 minutes I think- a real plus is that although AKV is far, it is the only stop. So glad to see its beauty when we arrived "home".

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0141.jpg

It is no exaggeration to say that we hit the bed like a ton of bricks and slept like a pile of rocks!:cloud9:

Tomorrow morning....wake up sleepy heads...we're goin on the Disney Cruise!!!:yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

E&BMom

11-18-2008, 05:51 PM

podsnel

11-18-2008, 06:27 PM

Sounds like you guys had a lot of fun!!!! We leave for WDW in just 6 days!!!! :woohoo: Can't wait to hear about the cruise. We did our 4th and 5th this summer (B2B) and have our 6th booked for Dec. 26th, 2009!!!!!! I'm sure you had a great time. Thanks for sharing!!!!:thumbsup2

WOW- a B2B!!!:worship: I was telling my kids that there are people who are fortunate enough to do this, and they think you must be the luckiest people in the world (so do I!). Which 2 did you do? Have a wonderful vacation!!

Camster0307

11-18-2008, 07:22 PM

Sooooo.......this is where you're hanging out these days?:laughing:

I'm here and loving your pix so far! Especially love your face on Splash Mountain!(yeah- it's the same one I make!)

podsnel

11-18-2008, 07:31 PM

Sooooo.......this is where you're hanging out these days?:laughing:

I'm here and loving your pix so far! Especially love your face on Splash Mountain!(yeah- it's the same one I make!)

Yea- that's because I was totally thinking of you and Lauren getting stuck up there for 20 minutes right before we hit the big slide!!!:rotfl:

Mom2PrincessesLinSy

11-18-2008, 07:38 PM

TigerKat

11-18-2008, 07:52 PM

I'm here!:wave: I so enjoyed meeting you and especially our phone conversation that night.:hug: Loving your TR so far!!!!!

Check out my new ticker, we've got a HUGE DIS group going, come along!!!!

Camster0307

11-18-2008, 08:01 PM

I'm here!:wave: I so enjoyed meeting you and especially our phone conversation that night.:hug: Loving your TR so far!!!!!

Check out my new ticker, we've got a HUGE DIS group going, come along!!!!

Kathy - OMG! I just checked out your ticker! You're not planning on visiting that OTHER park, are you?;)

TigerKat

11-18-2008, 08:05 PM

Kathy - OMG! I just checked out your ticker! You're not planning on visiting that OTHER park, are you?;)

::yes:: We're expanding our horizons.....:lmao:

ETA: Mainly for the restaurants......;)

karajeboo

11-18-2008, 09:12 PM

Hey Ellen! Great start - looking foward to following along. I've almost convince my DH to try HHIR, so maybe this will help me convince him to try DCL!

I so wish I could've met up with y'all last weekend! I was one weekend behind you!

As for the head tilt, that is hysterical! :rotfl2: But y'all looked great in your sports costumes!

alan_renfroe

11-18-2008, 10:07 PM

Hey Ellen! I found your TR and it is wonderful!!! Your stories and pictures were very entertaining - now I can't wait to read the rest of the report!

Great job...keep up the good work....and keep those food pics coming!

MAGICFOR2

11-19-2008, 12:03 AM

Subbing in Ellen, I'll be back to read! I'm excited to see your trip! :thumbsup2

karajeboo

11-19-2008, 06:44 AM

And I can't believe you sall ALL the "dorfs" (as Ally calls them!). That would knock out another 6 pages from her autograph book. Someday, I hope!

Camster0307

11-19-2008, 07:10 AM

And I can't believe you sall ALL the "dorfs" (as Ally calls them!). That would knock out another 6 pages from her autograph book. Someday, I hope!

I had asked a CM about seeing all the dwarfs; he said they are usually only out all together during the MNSSHP. Although, I definitley remember seeing them late one night during a MVMCP. Go figure!

karajeboo

11-19-2008, 07:15 AM

I had asked a CM about seeing all the dwarfs; he said they are usually only out all together during the MNSSHP. Although, I definitley remember seeing them late one night during a MVMCP. Go figure!

What are dwarfs? I'm talking about the DORFS! You know, the little guys with Snow White? :rotfl2:

E&BMom

11-19-2008, 07:44 AM

WOW- a B2B!!!:worship: I was telling my kids that there are people who are fortunate enough to do this, and they think you must be the luckiest people in the world (so do I!). Which 2 did you do? Have a wonderful vacation!!

We did a 4 day and then 3day on the Wonder. The 4 day was a Double dip so we got to go to CC 3 times!! It was great. We did it that way because we really wanted to do a 7 day but the magic was in California and we didn't want to go there. I wish we could do B2B on the magic someday. Now to get the money and the time!!!:goodvibes

jblb1020

11-19-2008, 08:58 AM

O.K. I am signing on! Great Trip report and I LOVE the pictures! Sorry we missed you guys on the ship! I think I saw you and your husband walk by us by the pool and you where wearing tye-dye shirts. I can't believe the Election Day Castaways vacation is over!

podsnel

11-19-2008, 09:31 AM

Looks like you all had a blast!! Isn't AKV so nice to come 'home' to? When we stayed there, however, we were way at the end of a really long hallway, furthest from the buses! It seemed to take forever to finally get back to our room!!

Great pics, hon. You all look really happy

We were very, very happy. Then we came home and were very, very sad! But my friend Cammie had just started her trip, so everyday she would TM me a photo or note from WDW, and it REALLY helped me ease out of awesome vacay mode!

I'm here!:wave: I so enjoyed meeting you and especially our phone conversation that night.:hug: Loving your TR so far!!!!!

Check out my new ticker, we've got a HUGE DIS group going, come along!!!!

Hi Kathy! Loved meeting you, too, and thanks for keeping me company on the phone that night! DH was watching the game in the other room, you were GREAT company!

We are going to be down there right after your trip and (hopefully) right before- I'll keep you posted, sounds like fun!!

Hey Ellen! Great start - looking foward to following along. I've almost convince my DH to try HHIR, so maybe this will help me convince him to try DCL!

I so wish I could've met up with y'all last weekend! I was one weekend behind you!

As for the head tilt, that is hysterical! :rotfl2: But y'all looked great in your sports costumes!

Well, I hope if I helped to convince him about HHI, I can convince him about the cruise, too! My biggest regret @ the cruise is that we missed all those years while they were little- it's sooooo incredible for the older ones, but it's total MAGIC for the little ones!!

And I really wish I had been there to meet youse guys:rotfl: - loved that pic Cammie sent, wish I could've jumped through my phone!!

Hey Ellen! I found your TR and it is wonderful!!! Your stories and pictures were very entertaining - now I can't wait to read the rest of the report!

Great job...keep up the good work....and keep those food pics coming!

Hi Alan!! I'm so glad you're here, after I shamelessly plugged my TR on another TR!:rolleyes1

Subbing in Ellen, I'll be back to read! I'm excited to see your trip! :thumbsup2

Yay! Come back soon!:goodvibes

And I can't believe you sall ALL the "dorfs" (as Ally calls them!). That would knock out another 6 pages from her autograph book. Someday, I hope!

If I had girls....but the men in my life looked at me like I was crazy when I said let's wait on line for Snow White & the Magnificent 7! Cindy's step family was out, too, later with NO LINE- but DS11 would NOT go for it!!!

We did a 4 day and then 3day on the Wonder. The 4 day was a Double dip so we got to go to CC 3 times!! It was great. We did it that way because we really wanted to do a 7 day but the magic was in California and we didn't want to go there. I wish we could do B2B on the magic someday. Now to get the money and the time!!!:goodvibes

3x at CC? THAT is an AWESOME itinerary!!!:thumbsup2

O.K. I am signing on! Great Trip report and I LOVE the pictures! Sorry we missed you guys on the ship! I think I saw you and your husband walk by us by the pool and you where wearing tye-dye shirts. I can't believe the Election Day Castaways vacation is over!

I was SO SAD not to meet you!!! I WILL be looking to hook up with you next time I'm in LBI, though... thanks for reading along!:flower3:

OK- I have time for a short post...

podsnel

11-19-2008, 10:17 AM

Saturday, November 1st, 2008- the day we had been dreaming of, was finally here!! I JUMPED out of bed (this is what I do on vacation- it is the exact opposite of what I do in my regular life) and ran to the balcony to check out the animals.I could see some in the distance, but not terribly close, so I went downstairs to the Mara to fill my mug and get breakfast for my group. On the way back to the room, I met my first Election Day Castaway, Jenny2- who ironically would be the EDC I would see the most of all week long! We recognized each other because (and I don't know if you noticed in my previous pics) Stampinshauna on our meet thread had made all of us lime green wristbands which were awesome! Anyway, back at the room, we ate watching the animals (which I don't think ever grows old!) and I repacked- we were leaving 2 suitcases at AKV while we were away on the cruise, and they would be delivered to BWV for our night there afterwards. Great idea, and it worked beautifully- thanks JBLB1020 for mentioning it on our thread!:thumbsup2 Fortunately, I had tried to keep all the WDW wear and cruisewear separate, so it wasn't THAT hard...but then there was THIS mountain in our room we were not sure how to handle-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0148.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0147.jpg

OMG- did we get enough candy??????? We split the chocolate from the sugar stuff, and I left the sugar stuff with the checked BW luggage (and then gave it away to housekeeping....SHHHHHHHH!).

11 am was here, and the boys went down to wait for the limo, while I did some fast shopping for pins and q-tips (isn't that what YOU buy before your 1st cruise??). They actually ran into good friends from S Plains while they were waiting in the Port Cochere- how funny!! And then....here comes our Limo!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0154.jpg

We used Sterling Limo, they were prompt, had a great price, the car was gorgeous, and we stopped for a case of water and wine and vodka on the trip to the port. We got to watch The Incredibles on all 3 flat screen tv's on the way there-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0157.jpg

And we popped the champagne and water bottles they provided to toast our voyage!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0168.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0162.jpg

Soon we saw the most beautiful sight of all...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0175.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0177.jpg

The boys were stunned and in awe of her size- I don't think they had any idea just how big this cruise ship would be until right then and there!!

I had really worried about what time to get picked up- and I have to say, this seemed to be just right. We were at the port at about 12:45, and had the place almost entirely to ourselves- very small line for checking the kids into the clubs, that was it.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0178.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0181.jpg

By 1:15, they were announcing our family to thunderous applause ;) and we were on board the Magic!!! The fun had finally begun!!:yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:

karajeboo

11-19-2008, 10:23 AM

OMG! I can hardly wait for more!!! We live so close to the port, plus we have a Carnival cruise that leaves from right here in Jacksonville, but I'm so "afraid" to cruise! A) Will I freak out being in the middle of the ocean? and B) Will I feel obligated to disembark at every port, and not enjoy the ship? Seriously, I have issues with this - Jeff and I can catch a 3 night cruise right here for like $250pp and we're afraid to try it!

So hurry up and write more so I can live vicariously through YOU!

Mozart

11-19-2008, 10:53 AM

A) Will I freak out being in the middle of the ocean? and B) Will I feel obligated to disembark at every port, and not enjoy the ship? Seriously, I have issues with this - Jeff and I can catch a 3 night cruise right here for like $250pp and we're afraid to try it!

a) I've never seen anyone freak out because they're out in the ocean, but then again I'm sure someone has. Just remember that normally even though you can't see land, the captain positions the ship so that land is just over the horizon.
b) It sounds like you're thinking about doing a Carnival cruise. I have my own personal feelings about the wisdom of cruising on Carnival, but suffice it to say that I would not use one cruise line as representative of what all cruises are like. Just because Carnival is no good doesn't mean you wouldn't enjoy Disney. ;)

karajeboo

11-19-2008, 11:06 AM

a) I've never seen anyone freak out because they're out in the ocean, but then again I'm sure someone has. Just remember that normally even though you can't see land, the captain positions the ship so that land is just over the horizon.
b) It sounds like you're thinking about doing a Carnival cruise. I have my own personal feelings about the wisdom of cruising on Carnival, but suffice it to say that I would not use one cruise line as representative of what all cruises are like. Just because Carnival is no good doesn't mean you wouldn't enjoy Disney. ;)

Good advice! I have a good friend who's a TA and she said Carnival is good for first time cruisers because the ships are older and smaller (at least the ones out of Jax) so you have nothing to compare. We thought of doing it just to get a feel for the whole cruising thing. I've also been told by the same friend/TA that Carnival is second only to DCL for it's kids programs. So that was encouraging, too. And for thta cheap price (plus we see deals offered on TV all the time for even cheaper rates!) we could maybe give it a go.

NikkiLovesWDW!

11-19-2008, 01:44 PM

Hey neighbor!! I am a self-proclaimed trip report lurker! I read them and read them and never respond. But since you are my neighbor AND since I will be taking the Western Cruise (my first cruise ever) in less than 8 months now AND since I might want someone to repsond to MY trip report if I do one........

I just wanted to say I love the report so far! I can't wait to read more about the cruise!

podsnel

11-19-2008, 01:53 PM

Good advice! I have a good friend who's a TA and she said Carnival is good for first time cruisers because the ships are older and smaller (at least the ones out of Jax) so you have nothing to compare. We thought of doing it just to get a feel for the whole cruising thing. I've also been told by the same friend/TA that Carnival is second only to DCL for it's kids programs. So that was encouraging, too. And for thta cheap price (plus we see deals offered on TV all the time for even cheaper rates!) we could maybe give it a go.

I had been on 3 quick cruises prior to this one; Royal C to Bahamas, Celebrity to the Bahamas (out of Jacksonville with DH! We stayed at Amelia Island Plantation the night before- GORGEOUS!!!), and Norwegian Dawn to the land of drunken stupors and king size hangovers (but it was fun!). Those short cruises were a good way to figure out if cruising was for us or not- you should check out a fast one if you're that hesitant. But 7 days on DCL? It was total heaven. We could have stayed another week, easily. It was soooo much better in so many ways than those other 3 lines. And you, being a Disney addict, would love it even more! So go ahead and get that quick little cruise out of the way soon, and then book on the Oct 30, 2010 Western DCL because we'll be on it!::yes::

And Mozart- I heard you were in DTD right before we were! I'm so sorry I missed you- I had a page saved in my autograph book and everything!!:rotfl: ;)

podsnel

11-19-2008, 02:01 PM

dvc4life

11-19-2008, 02:29 PM

Hi! I have been reading your TR and enjoying it a great deal. We got off the ship on Nov 1st and reading your report is taking me back. Thanks for the MNSSHP report. We weren't able to go this year, so I lived it through you and your pictures. We just weren't able to swing it this year. It is one of our family's favorite times to be there. We were happy to be able to spend one day at EPCOT with friends for the Wine & Food Festival. We had such fun.

Anyways, keep posting with your wonderful pictures. I love seeing them!!!!!

Camster0307

11-19-2008, 03:14 PM

We were very, very happy. Then we came home and were very, very sad! But my friend Cammie had just started her trip, so everyday she would TM me a photo or note from WDW, and it REALLY helped me ease out of awesome vacay mode!

Happy to oblige!:goodvibes

I was afraid I might be bugging you with my endless texts - glad to hear it was the exact opposite. Feel free to do the same to me the next time you're down there!

podsnel

11-19-2008, 03:16 PM

So at 1:15 we were only 15 minutes away from being able to get into our cabin. We had checked most everything, including the case of water we bought for $4 on the way to port, so carrying the carry-on and a couple of wine bags was no big deal. We went up to Topsiders, and hit the buffet-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0183.jpg

Looking for a table out on deck, we met boyspapa and DW who were just leaving, so we were able to have their table. Thanks, Carl! I was so glad to meet them, because we had some plans together on this cruise- we would be having brunch at Palo together and swimming with the dolphins in Cozumel together.:goodvibes

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0185.jpg

We were all anxious to see our cabin, so that's where we went next. And I started to worry about the box I had shipped down a couple of weeks before- what if it's not there?:scared1: Here we are, cabin#7076-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0186.jpg

But, of course, I had worried for nothing, because there was the box, right on our bed. Everyone was happy about the cabin- DS9 kept on closing the curtain all week saying "You go in your room, we'll go in our room!". DH was impressed by the size of the cabin, too- it was bigger than others we have been in in the past. And that split bathroom was a really nice feature! As well as those nice size Spa products on the shelf-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0187.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0188.jpg

And look at all the cool free stuff everyone gets on a Disney Cruise!!! Korbel champagne-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0189.jpg

White chocolate champagne glasses (which the DSs immediately chowed down), a DCL wine bucket and 2 DCL spa robes-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0193.jpg

Ok- I have a little secret to tell you- not everyone gets this for free on DCL. Sorry for the tease. But my DH doesn't know that. He to this day believes that this is just how nice it is on a Disney Cruise. But really? I got the REAS . Because it's my 1st Disney Cruise. And I'm a foodie. And I really wanted to go to Palo. All three times to Palo, for brunch, tea and dinner. And a first time cruiser books Palo 75 days out. After all the repeat cruisers booked at 90 days out. And they booked after the lucky cruisers who were in suites booked at 105 days out....along with me, and whoever else booked the REAS. I know, it's somewhat deceptive. But I had some cash leftover from a girls trip I had been on, so I figured, why not? I actually got a debit card to book it with so it wouldn't be on our Disney Visa, where my CPA-bill-paying DH would have seen it. And I can PROMISE you, he enjoyed it. So it's a win/win, right?;) Look, just be glad I use my evil deceptiveness for the good and not the bad!

While they ate the chocolate, I ripped open my box and hung up my FE (thanks, Tiffany!) and decorated my door.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0199.jpg

More door later. We had some time before our Dismeet, so we thought we could go see where the boys clubs were. DS9 was in Ocean Lab-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0200.jpg

And DS11 was in Ocean Quest

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0201.jpg

I have to be honest, DH and I were a little concerned after seeing so much stuff in Ocean Lab that DS11 was going to be bored in OQ...it was just smaller in there. Oh man, were we WAAAAAYYYYY off on that one- DS11 had the time of his life in OQ! As a matter of fact, this was the only visit to either club that the boys left quickly from- the rest of the week, we could barely get them outta there!:thumbsup2

By now it was 3:00, and that meant we had to get to the Promenade Lounge for the Dismeet!! I couldn't wait to meet all the people from our thread who I had been getting psyched with for nearly a year. It all happened so fast, before I knew it we were up on the steps for a big picture-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0205.jpg

I would just like to point out, standing right behind my left shoulder is....Jenny2!:goodvibes

Back to the cabin and our luggage had arrived, I had a little time before the Muster Drill to do some unpacking-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0206.jpg

Hey look! We're right next to LBIgirl67!:thumbsup2

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0207.jpg

Time to get to the Sailaway Party!!! But exactly who wants to go?

Camster0307

11-19-2008, 03:21 PM

I'd like the identities of all the DISers in that picture, please!:rolleyes:

TigerKat

11-19-2008, 03:59 PM

I'd like the identities of all the DISers in that picture, please!:rolleyes:

You beat me to it.....:lmao:

Camster0307

11-19-2008, 04:02 PM

You beat me to it.....:lmao:

Great minds think alike!:thumbsup2

wuv tigger

11-19-2008, 04:39 PM

in front wearing the lime green shirts

mindelmouse

11-19-2008, 06:21 PM

Great Trip report...i feel like i'm reliving the experience. I'm on the other side of stairs from you.....about the same step as Jenny2

podsnel

11-19-2008, 08:45 PM

Great Trip report...i feel like i'm reliving the experience. I'm on the other side of stairs from you.....about the same step as Jenny2

Mindy, weren't you and your husband at the post office on CC when I was, waiting for stamps? With Brent (who looked strangely familiar.....) calling for a postman?

alan_renfroe

11-19-2008, 08:56 PM

karajeboo

11-19-2008, 09:31 PM

I think my husband would blow a gasket if I told him I booked us for a big DIS meet! He rolled his eyes enough when I met up with Cammie last weekend! BTW, Cammie, he thinks you're "normal" so you're okay in his book! :thumbsup2

I'm not so patiently waiting!!!!! I need this TR to convince my husband we need to try DCL!!! Jeff has learned to trust the DIS so I tell him about all the TRs I read. So then when I'm taking pics of food and such, and writing my own TRs, he understands that I'm giving back, since I've gotten so much info from reading others'!

mindelmouse

11-19-2008, 10:21 PM

Mindy, weren't you and your husband at the post office on CC when I was, waiting for stamps? With Brent (who looked strangely familiar.....) calling for a postman?

My hubby is not in the group picture..he was picking up my son at the arcade. We didn't see Brent at all on CC. As soon as I figure out how to post my pictures.....I had a tee shirt on that said making magical memories and mickey stick figures of my family and our friends

podsnel

11-20-2008, 08:12 AM

Awesome updates and pictures, Ellen! The Renfroes are totally living vicariously through your family at this point. Can't wait for the next installment!

(By the way, we officially booked our May trip today! We're excited!) :banana:

So what are your May dates?

I think my husband would blow a gasket if I told him I booked us for a big DIS meet! He rolled his eyes enough when I met up with Cammie last weekend! BTW, Cammie, he thinks you're "normal" so you're okay in his book! :thumbsup2

I'm not so patiently waiting!!!!! I need this TR to convince my husband we need to try DCL!!! Jeff has learned to trust the DIS so I tell him about all the TRs I read. So then when I'm taking pics of food and such, and writing my own TRs, he understands that I'm giving back, since I've gotten so much info from reading others'!

Hey- I'm normal, too!!! I'll do my best to convince him- if you would meet me in May at WDW, I could convince him in person- THAT would be even better!

My hubby is not in the group picture..he was picking up my son at the arcade. We didn't see Brent at all on CC. As soon as I figure out how to post my pictures.....I had a tee shirt on that said making magical memories and mickey stick figures of my family and our friends

So are you on the other side of Mickey?

mindelmouse

11-20-2008, 09:03 AM

So are you on the other side of Mickey?[/QUOTE]

I towards the top row...have a white t shirt with the design enclosed in a red box.

podsnel

11-20-2008, 09:27 AM

We dumped the life vests back in the cabin and high tailed it up to deck 9 for the Sailaway party. We got there so quickly, there were only maybe 2 other families up there yet. EXCELLENT!!! Or so I think. The men have another agenda entirely different from mine, which does not involve singing and dancing an inch away from the stage and Mickey Mouse. They preferred to spend time with Mickey another way-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0208.jpg

I mean, can you blame them? No one was there!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0209.jpg

Like a Mickey ear hot tub- hmmmm....I wonder what makes the water so warm in that Mickey ear?:rotfl:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0210.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0211.jpg

Well, that's all well and good, but I know where I need to be- so DH stays with them and his new cruise buddy, the big refillable beer mug. As a side note, I would just like to say, I had mentioned this mug to DH about 9 months ago. This is the big mug you purchase and they refill it throughout the cruise at the price of a little beer. His response to this great revelation was, "I don't care. I don't drink that much beer." So guess what he bought for himself as soon as he was on his own for 2 minutes? Apparently, he DOES drink that much beer. I'm just sayin...

Anyway, then I go to our first Sailaway....alone.:sad1: Aww....get over it! I did! Especially because some woman stood next to me and danced, so I didn't feel silly jumping up and down by myself.:thumbsup2

But now- no more stagefront. I was up on Deck 10- but that's ok, Deck 10 has a great view!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0214.jpg

And the horn blows, and I tear up, because I can't believe it's finally here, after years of wanting to come, we're on the Magic, and the streamers fly....

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0218.jpg

...and it is the most awesome thing ever. We set sail!:yay: Bye-bye, Cape Canaveral-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0224.jpg

I return to the Mickey pool, and the family is nowhere to be found. So I check in the cabin, and there they are- and we are all ready for some action! I throw a few more magnets on my door- and don'tcha know, I can't even take a photo that shows the whole door because my magnets went all the way to the floor-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0237.jpg

I meant to take a better pic later, really I did, but I don't think I ever got around to it- sorry! Anyway, the boys wanted to see what those clubs were all about, so DS11 went to his, and we signed in DS9 in his, and then DH & I went in search of something to keep me awake at Cove Cafe-

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http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0231.jpg

We were just in time for some little snacks they put out, so we took my Keuko (I think) coffee and snacks outside to those comfy chairs and watched as the world and all its responsibilities faded away...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0232.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0234.jpg

DH & I did a little exploring, checking out Beat Street-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0235.jpg

-where we would spend LOTS of time in the next week at all the bars (or as DS9 said, the grown-up clubs). Then a peek at Studio Sea-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0236.jpg

Then we get everyone back to the cabin to get ready for our first dinner which is going to be at Lumiere's!

Camster0307

11-20-2008, 09:43 AM

podsnel

11-20-2008, 09:45 AM

And I would never want to forget this, it was sooo sweet!

After the Dismeet, WuvTigger said she had a little something for me to say thanks for organizing the FE exchange. I went to her cabin, and she gave me the cutest Tinkerbell memo board!! How sweet is that? Thanks, Judy- we left messages for each other all week on that board!:thumbsup2

wuv tigger

11-20-2008, 11:56 AM

UGAFan0829

11-20-2008, 12:06 PM

karajeboo

11-20-2008, 12:38 PM

Ellen, the ship is barely out of port and I'M SOLD!!!!! I got goose bumps with the streamers flying - this has become my latest must-do!

MagicMe

11-20-2008, 01:07 PM

Just wanted to let you know I'm really enjoying your trip report. You first got me with that title as that's exactly how I felt on our cruise. I've cruised twice on the Wonder (4-days) and most recently on the Magic (the Sept DD). Loved it sooooo much that I'm now booked on the Sept2010 TA!!! It's really going to be tough getting me off that ship!! :rotfl2:

vanessa3198

11-20-2008, 01:52 PM

I absolutely LOVE your TR! :worship:
I'm gonna be going on my first cruise at the end of February FINALLY after 10 years of wanting to go! And I know I'm gonna cry when I hear that horn go off at the sail away party!

Please, please, please post more! popcorn::

Miscoehill

11-20-2008, 01:53 PM

Love your TR! Now I just need to convince the DH to do a 7 day next year! We've done the 4 day and 3 day..i think its time for the 7 day!
Glad you had a magical time!

podsnel

11-20-2008, 02:28 PM

Hi, Ellen!:wave:
I came over to the trip report board looking for a report on the Western Caribbean, and I foud yours, and I am so glad I did! My DH and I doing the Western next September to celebrate our 10th anniversary, so I wanted to read about other DIS'ers experiences.
I am LOVING your report so far! Just like you, I love food and pics, so your report is right up my alley!
I cannot wait to read more! Thanks so much for posting!:worship:

Well, I'm so glad you find mine, too!!:goodvibes Happy Anniversary- what a PERFECT way to celebrate. Make sure you go to the Dismeet- it's really fun to meet up with your Dis pals, and see them and say hi all week.:)

Ellen, the ship is barely out of port and I'M SOLD!!!!! I got goose bumps with the streamers flying - this has become my latest must-do!

PERFECT!! :thumbsup2

Just wanted to let you know I'm really enjoying your trip report. You first got me with that title as that's exactly how I felt on our cruise. I've cruised twice on the Wonder (4-days) and most recently on the Magic (the Sept DD). Loved it sooooo much that I'm now booked on the Sept2010 TA!!! It's really going to be tough getting me off that ship!! :rotfl2:

WOW- a TA:worship: ....I wish the dates would work for us, all those fun, relaxing days at sea AND a great price!! Lucky, lucky you! Thanks for reading!!

I absolutely LOVE your TR! :worship:
I'm gonna be going on my first cruise at the end of February FINALLY after 10 years of wanting to go! And I know I'm gonna cry when I hear that horn go off at the sail away party!

Please, please, please post more! popcorn::

Awww...I'm so glad you love my TR- thanks! And yes, you ARE going to cry- when they announce you as first time cruisers when you board, when the horn blows, at the shows....bring tissues. Lots and lots of tissues!;)

Love your TR! Now I just need to convince the DH to do a 7 day next year! We've done the 4 day and 3 day..i think its time for the 7 day!
Glad you had a magical time!

It seems like the only logical next step!:thumbsup2

podsnel

11-20-2008, 02:50 PM

So are you on the other side of Mickey?

I towards the top row...have a white t shirt with the design enclosed in a red box.[/QUOTE]

Are you sure we didn't meet?

i<3castawaycay123

11-20-2008, 03:16 PM

I'm so sad right now!! Every time I read a cruise trip report i get sad. We have gone on 3 and it will be 4 next year. We think it is the best vacation EVER so we are always excited to go on one. Great trip report so far! I hope ya'll had a great time!

Keep posting.... I'll be waiting!!

mindelmouse

11-20-2008, 03:57 PM

I towards the top row...have a white t shirt with the design enclosed in a red box.

Are you sure we didn't meet?[/QUOTE]

I do think I saw you in the MK though and I saw you walk into the meet shortly before we took the picture.....but we never got to say hi.

podsnel

11-20-2008, 04:13 PM

We had requested the second seating for dinner, and were assigned LAPPLAP for rotation, meaning we would be going to dinner every night at 8:15 which was just fine with us- we figured we could always have everyone grab some kind of snack aroun 5 or so each night, and it all would work out fine for us, which it did! We were seated at table #68, and our servers were Christian and Ranzil. If we could have brought these guys home with us, I can promise you, we would have!!:worship: They were spectacular, and we all loved them.
Our first decision was whether or not to do the wine package. I knew it wasn't much of a savings, but I also knew there were a few bottles on the premium list that DH would really enjoy, and they would be more expensive if we didn't get the package. So we chose the premium package. And had a bottle every night-:banana:. And what was really good, was that on the nights when I wanted a less expensive wine that we both LOVE (a white wine called Evolution 9) they took off the $7 difference. Cool!

Anyway, on our first night, the boys shared the Shrimp Medley

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0239-1.jpg

Dh & I got escargot, and DS11 tried one for the first time-here, Honey, Daddy wants you to eat a yummy garlicky slug- YUM!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0238-1.jpg

DS9 ate one no problem- he's a snail veteran from F&W 2007!

Then we had a Normandy salad-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0241-1.jpg

And it looks like someone had some soup!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0240-1.jpg

The kids had kid food that night- I believe it was one of the only times of the trip. Both DH & I ordered Coquille St. Jacques-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0242-1.jpg

and it was really, really yummy.:goodvibes

A word about the food- I really didn't know what to expect. There are sooooo many varying opinions on the DCL food on these boards, I guess I was ready for anything- too bland, too spicy, undercooked, overcooked, used to be better, much better than the last cruise! food- I was truly open to it all. And you know what?

I really liked the food.:thumbsup2

It was better than other cruise food I've had, it was almost all very tasty stuff. I was not expecting 5 star cuisine (I believe that's on another cruise line and I don't think I'm old enough or rich enough to get on that ship anytime soon!) so I was not disappointed. And our servers were sooo eager to make sure we had a positive dining experience, they helped us choose well every time. And we could order whatever we wanted to. As much as we wanted to. Some nights we split a third entree because we just couldn't decide.

And everyone left the table full and satisfied!:cloud9:

Time for dessert! Can you guess what DS11 had?

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0243-1.jpg

DH got an ice cream sundae-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0244-1.jpg

And I had creme brulee-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0245-1.jpg

The DSs were desperate to get back to their clubs, and we were desperate to get to ours! First we went into Rockin Bar D. Now even being a newbie, I knew what was going to go on in there as soon as the comedian finished- and it was pretty empty in there, and I had a feeling that we were going to be picked. So please forgive me when I say....we left and went to Diversions. Sorry. Normally I'm one to be ok with public humiliation, but tonight I was just mellow- go figure?!

However, DH and I had a GREAT first night in Diversions! We got a booth, grabbed Trivial Pursuit 80's off the wall, watched an AWESOME football game, and I kicked DH's behind playing TP, proving once and for all who the fairer and smarter sex really is at our house!:rotfl:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0246-1.jpg

We really laughed alot during that game, so nice to be alone with my DH and not have any responsibility hanging over our heads other than having more fun! An excellent first night onboard the Magic.

karajeboo

11-20-2008, 04:24 PM

Oh, Ellen! Did I say I'M IN yet? Cause I'm SOOOOO in! I have never wanted to really go on a cruise, until now! I'm soooo pumped!

Great pics and descriptions!

UGAFan0829

11-20-2008, 05:27 PM

Awesome update! Sounds like you had an awesome and relaxing first night! Can't wait to read more

We were seated at table #68, and our servers were Christian and Ranzil. If we could have brought these guys home with us, I can promise you, we would have!!:worship: They were spectacular, and we all loved them.

Do you remember if Christian was from Chile? I know it's a long shot, but we had a server by the name of Christian for our first cruise on the Wonder and he was so awesome!

podsnel

11-20-2008, 06:00 PM

Oh, Ellen! Did I say I'M IN yet? Cause I'm SOOOOO in! I have never wanted to really go on a cruise, until now! I'm soooo pumped!

Great pics and descriptions!

October 30th, 2010! October30th, 2010!:yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:

Awesome update! Sounds like you had an awesome and relaxing first night! Can't wait to read more

Do you remember if Christian was from Chile? I know it's a long shot, but we had a server by the name of Christian for our first cruise on the Wonder and he was so awesome!

Christian was from Peru- I'll be posting pics of him on other nights. Every night he would tell us what he was really recommending on the menu- and he LOVED to push the desserts!!

mindelmouse

11-20-2008, 06:56 PM

TigerKat

11-20-2008, 07:22 PM

Hey El!

Great pics and updates, I felt like I was right there with you when the ship set sail!!!!! Looks like you guys are already having the time of your lives.:thumbsup2

siestakeys04

11-20-2008, 09:35 PM

Great report!! I know you had a great time.:cool1:

LBIGirl67

11-20-2008, 10:03 PM

Hey look! We're right next to LBIgirl67!:thumbsup2

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0207.jpg

Time to get to the Sailaway Party!!! But exactly who wants to go?

How did I miss you taking this awful shot of me?...LOL I must pay attention more often, you caught us on tram too.....wow, must have been all the rum...:woohoo: Justin looks so amused...:lmao:
Look me up when you come back to LBI.

podsnel

11-21-2008, 07:51 AM

Ellen,

I've found out by reading yours and all the other trip reports that I'm a big dope. I hardly took pictures of anything because I never remembered to take my camera with me. You guys were so good, you have pictures to show everything you did, I only have some of the kids, a lot of fish in the water.....I don't know what's wrong with me. I'm writing my own personal trip report to keep with our stuff at home and I have to use stock Disney pictures. I guess I've learned a valuable lesson - take more pictures, I can always delete them.

Thanks for sharing yours.

Not a big dope! Just too busy having fun to think of it! I am one of those people who takes photos and more photos- I always have. I actually hold back (as in there would be MORE picture taking) for the sake of the other people traveling with me! If you want me to email you any photos, just let me know- and next time, take millions of pictures of everything!!:goodvibes

Hey El!

Great pics and updates, I felt like I was right there with you when the ship set sail!!!!! Looks like you guys are already having the time of your lives.:thumbsup2

Yep- we already were! Now you know why when I met you after the cruise I couldn't shut-up about how fabulous it was!!

Great report!! I know you had a great time.:cool1:

Thanks- and we sure did-

How did I miss you taking this awful shot of me?...LOL I must pay attention more often, you caught us on tram too.....wow, must have been all the rum...:woohoo: Justin looks so amused...:lmao:
Look me up when you come back to LBI.

I love your smile in this photo! :cutie: And I will absolutely look you up when I get to LBI- I miss it, may take a ride down for the day in the winter sometime-

podsnel

11-21-2008, 01:37 PM

I woke up at the crack, because, of course, I was on vacation, and ran out to the verandah (isn't verandah such a beautiful word?:goodvibes ) just to see the water and the day- gorgeous! I quietly got dressed and went up to the Cove Cafe again for some morning java- YUM! They have goooood coffee at that place! I also got a few breakfast breads to bring back to the cabin- although the coffee is a charged item at CC, the food is not. They had this amazing nut bread, which I meant to go back for, but never got to the rest of the week. Anyway, my cabinmates were just waking up, and decided they would have breakfast in the room and watch a movie on the tv, while DH & I (are you sitting down, Cammie?) went to work out together at the gym. The clubs didn't open until 9, so if we hurried we could get at least part of a workout in, get DS9 to his club (DS11 could take care of himself), finish our workout, grab a shower, and get to Palo by 10 for brunch. DH & I have never gone to the gym together before, so this was a nice thing for us to do.

Being at home now, with the YMCA as my gym, I can honestly say-

I really miss that fitness center on the Magic!!! Where else can you ride a bike and watch Peter Pan at the same time?!!! Where else can you gaze at the turquoise sea or your next port of call while lifting some weights and sweating like a pig? It's AWESOME!!!:thumbsup2 A very different kind of Gym experience, I can't believe I went back several times on our trip- I NEVER go to the gym on vacation! So, we give the Fitness Center two thumbs up!:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

Anyway, at 9 am DS9 could get checked in at the Stack, which is where Ocean Lab's 8-10 yr olds were having their 1st activity of the day, Ice Breakers and Game Madness. What a line there was to check the kids in!:scared1: Later that day, we decided to let DS9 check himself in and out with the condition that when he left the club, we would be paged, and he had to return to the cabin immediately, where we would meet him and see what he wanted to do next. It truly ended up working out fine, he was a good kid and stuck to the rules, so it really worked out well for everyone. We ran into boyspapa and DW and their DGS9 who were checking into the Stack as well....in a little while we'd all be meeting at Palo for brunch.

10:00, time to see what Palo brunch is all about! We are seated next to the window, and offered a mimosa or a sweeter champagne drink- DH goes sweet, I have a mimosa. Our server, Emmanuel, was truly wonderful.

He took us around on a tour of all the stations, explaining that things would be constantly replenished throughout the morning, and we could begin helping ourselves. He also showed us the main course choices, which we would order from him and he would serve us.

Some of the stations-
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0256-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0257-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0258-1.jpg

Our plates from the buffet-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0247-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0250-1.jpg

This is the Stolen everyone raves about here on the Dis- YUM!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0249-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0252.jpg

Then we ordered from Emmanuel. On our "tour" he had explained to us that the chef went to Italy to learn to make pizza, so you KNOW we were having some of that! Boyspapa and DW split a pie, half cheese, half sausage I think? I had to order the blue cheese & grape pizza, after reading about it on here- it was delish!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0248-1.jpg

I make pizza on the grill when I entertain, and this one is going on my next menu without a doubt. DH had Eggs Benedict, which he gobbled up in a hurry because it wasn't very warm. He really should have said something. But most everything else was so good, it honestly didn't matter. Next we got some Mango Soup-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0253-1.jpg

and we all thought we'd try the Oysters, but none of us thought they were that good-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0254-1.jpg

Orecchiete is one of my favorite pastas, and this looked so good I had to try some with DH-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0255-1.jpg

Very creamy with salmon...mmmmmm....

Even after ALL THAT we stuffed in a little dessert, which I unfortunately ate before I remembered to photograph- sorry!! Here we all are, just before rolling out for the day-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0259-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0260-1.jpg

While we were inside, the family from the plane came walking by on the deck outside! We waved, and thought that was really funny.

Carl & Donna-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0261.jpg

DH & I

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0262-1.jpg

I am so glad we were able to have brunch with boyspapa and his DW- it made brunch that much more fun, to be hanging with one of our new friends from the DIS, and who we would be spending more time with in Cozumel!

By the time we were finished, we were ready to go see Key West with the kids!:scared1:

Camster0307

11-21-2008, 01:45 PM

....... while DH & I (are you sitting down, Cammie?) went to work out together at the gym. The clubs didn't open until 9, so if we hurried we could get at least part of a workout in, get DS9 to his club (DS11 could take care of himself), finish our workout, grab a shower, and get to Palo by 10 for brunch. DH & I have never gone to the gym together before, so this was a nice thing for us to do.

Good grief woman!:faint: You're ON VACATION - give it a rest!

And you do realize that anything you might have lost during that workout, you probably put right back after eating at that heavenly-looking buffet! So, my motto is -- why bother?;)

podsnel

11-21-2008, 02:38 PM

Good grief woman!:faint: You're ON VACATION - give it a rest!

And you do realize that anything you might have lost during that workout, you probably put right back after eating at that heavenly-looking buffet! So, my motto is -- why bother?;)

I HAD to bother- or else I'd be wearing a pillowcase on Formal Night instead of my evening gown!! And you KNOW I am not skimping on the food!! So I ate & drank everything all the time, and when I got home I weighed the same as before I left. We almost always took the stairs rather than the elevator, too. At the start of the week, you could REALLY feel it in your thighs, but by the end it was a lot easier.:thumbsup2

NikkiLovesWDW!

11-21-2008, 02:52 PM

I think I'm going to just plan my trip exactly according to yours! (minus the gym visits!) I am really enjoying your trip report! Thanks for keeping up with it so quickly! :thumbsup2

vanessa3198

11-21-2008, 03:05 PM

That grape and blue cheese pizza sounds so tasty to me!
I think I'm the only person I know that likes blue cheese...

Oh well, more for me!

Camster0307

11-21-2008, 03:07 PM

I HAD to bother- or else I'd be wearing a pillowcase on Formal Night instead of my evening gown!! And you KNOW I am not skimping on the food!! So I ate & drank everything all the time, and when I got home I weighed the same as before I left. We almost always took the stairs rather than the elevator, too. At the start of the week, you could REALLY feel it in your thighs, but by the end it was a lot easier.:thumbsup2

You're so good!

I must say - I do try too! I always make the girls and I walk over to DHS instead of taking that boat. And lord knows, you get a good workout walking those hallways of the BW!

Mozart

11-21-2008, 03:35 PM

That grape and blue cheese pizza sounds so tasty to me!
I think I'm the only person I know that likes blue cheese...

Oh well, more for me!

Grape and cheese pizza.....to say that it's good would not be acknowleding its greatness.

Forever42

11-21-2008, 03:54 PM

I am extremely excited about blue cheese and grape pizza - and DH haaaaates blue cheese, so all for me!

Thank you, thank you for this trip report - we're sailing two weeks from tomorrow and it's great to see all of the pictures!

TigerKat

11-21-2008, 04:21 PM

Great update El!!!

I tried this last trip to get in as much stair climbing and walking as I could to avoid gaining any weight back and it worked. I ate like a piggy and didn't gain a pound! I'd have been in the gym had there been one.:thumbsup2

vanessa3198

11-21-2008, 05:27 PM

Grape and cheese pizza.....to say that it's good would not be acknowleding its greatness.

I can't wait!
I'm definitely gonna try it! :thumbsup2

buku

11-21-2008, 08:13 PM

October 30th, 2010! October30th, 2010!:yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:

Christian was from Peru- I'll be posting pics of him on other nights. Every night he would tell us what he was really recommending on the menu- and he LOVED to push the desserts!!

We had Christian and Ranzil also but at the first dinner seating at table #69!!
The boys loved them. We booked for the same cruise next year. Loving your TR...brings back lots of great memories aboard the Magic.

podsnel

11-21-2008, 10:04 PM

I think I'm going to just plan my trip exactly according to yours! (minus the gym visits!) I am really enjoying your trip report! Thanks for keeping up with it so quickly! :thumbsup2

Nikki- let's talk turkey. I see you're getting married (congratulations!!!:jumping1: ) and I think what you REALLY need is to put one of those luggage tags they're going to send you on my b*** and take me along!!! I found the PERFECT deck chair for my week as a stowaway, and I'll be there everyday to help out! Think of me as your personal concierge!!!::yes:: :rotfl: No, really..::yes::

That grape and blue cheese pizza sounds so tasty to me!
I think I'm the only person I know that likes blue cheese...

Oh well, more for me!

:thumbsup2 That's exactly the right attitude.:thumbsup2

You're so good!

I must say - I do try too! I always make the girls and I walk over to DHS instead of taking that boat. And lord knows, you get a good workout walking those hallways of the BW!

I think that is the BEST workout- you're in a place you love, and you don't even realize you're doin it:cheer2:

Grape and cheese pizza.....to say that it's good would not be acknowleding its greatness.

You are so right.....yummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm......

I am extremely excited about blue cheese and grape pizza - and DH haaaaates blue cheese, so all for me!

Thank you, thank you for this trip report - we're sailing two weeks from tomorrow and it's great to see all of the pictures!

Just in case you have extra luggage tags? Please see above.:thumbsup2 And ps...my DH hates blue cheese, too.

Great update El!!!

I tried this last trip to get in as much stair climbing and walking as I could to avoid gaining any weight back and it worked. I ate like a piggy and didn't gain a pound! I'd have been in the gym had there been one.:thumbsup2

YAY KATHY!!!!! you looked GORGEOUS at our meet!:thumbsup2

We had Christian and Ranzil also but at the first dinner seating at table #69!!
The boys loved them. We booked for the same cruise next year. Loving your TR...brings back lots of great memories aboard the Magic.

KIM!!!! Christian & Ranzil were such wonderful guys- wish we had been with you at the same seating for them! So happy to hear you had a great cruise (I'm assuming you did if you rebooked-), but wish we had done that dancing we were talking about!!!:woohoo: Hope you'll rebook on the next one, for the NEXT one!!!:thumbsup2

plutospup

11-21-2008, 10:10 PM

wuv tigger

11-22-2008, 05:02 AM

It was great seeing Carl & Donna again.

What great Grandparents they are. I would hope that I would want to take my grandkids on a cruise:thumbsup2

dvc4life

11-22-2008, 08:18 AM

Camster0307

11-22-2008, 08:55 AM

YAY KATHY!!!!! you looked GORGEOUS at our meet!:thumbsup2

I'll second that!:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

TigerKat

11-22-2008, 09:29 AM

I'll second that!:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

Aww, you guys are too sweet!;)

bfosbenner

11-22-2008, 10:16 AM

I finally got to the tail of your report so I can post.

Sorry I did not get to the DIS meet. We were actually taking a tour of the spa. This was our first time in there and our 4th cruise.:confused3

I love your report and keep it comming. We brought the "grand parents" for their first time so we had fun being there tour guides. They loved it.:woohoo:

We dined with Jeff, Darlene and Catherine. (plutospup) which was a great time at dinner each night.

Ellen,
We rebooked for the Oct 30, 2010 also.:banana:

wuv tigger

11-22-2008, 06:31 PM

I have a viral inner ear infection :sick: ... meaning there are NO antibiotics to help clear it up sooner :guilty:

And ain't doing well! :sad2: I sure hope this vertigo - headache - nausea starts to clear up REALLY soon.

I don't want to visit the ER again or worse yet, get admitted. :scared1:

wuv tigger

podsnel

11-22-2008, 09:31 PM

Ellen -

You have sold me on doing the brunch. We have not done that before and it looks fabulous!!!!!! We just ate dinner there for the first time in October and loved it.

Thanks for the pictures and please keep them coming!

There will ALWAYS be more pictures in my report!!

I finally got to the tail of your report so I can post.

Sorry I did not get to the DIS meet. We were actually taking a tour of the spa. This was our first time in there and our 4th cruise.:confused3

I love your report and keep it comming. We brought the "grand parents" for their first time so we had fun being there tour guides. They loved it.:woohoo:

We dined with Jeff, Darlene and Catherine. (plutospup) which was a great time at dinner each night.

Ellen,
We rebooked for the Oct 30, 2010 also.:banana:

Sorry we didn't meet, but maybe on the next one- that's great that you were able to eat with Pluto's Pup every night- we had very nice people at the table next to us, really enjoyed them.

I have a viral inner ear infection :sick: ... meaning there are NO antibiotics to help clear it up sooner :guilty:

And ain't doing well! :sad2: I sure hope this vertigo - headache - nausea starts to clear up REALLY soon.

I don't want to visit the ER again or worse yet, get admitted. :scared1:

wuv tigger

I'm so sorry you're still not feeling well...:hug: Hang in there, Judy-

I'll have an update tomorrow, see you soon!

podsnel

11-22-2008, 09:37 PM

The blue cheese pizza was outstanding!

Ellen, it was great meeting you. The cruise was wonderful, especially meeting so many Disers. Except for Grand Cayman, as Bret would say, "the weather was spectacular"!

Thanks for writing this TR, so we can relive a wonderful experience.

Hey Birthday Buddy!:goodvibes

Really nice to meet you, too- sorry we didn't see more of each other. I am glad to hear you enjoyed yourself, and I hear you had some nice dinner companions!:goodvibes Thanks for reading my TR...I love writing it!

2_Eagle_Mom

11-23-2008, 12:57 AM

I just found your TR and it's fantastic! We will be going on the Magic in May to celebrate our 25th anniversary and I'm trying to read as many Western TRs as possible to see what we have in store. I love all the photos (will be using them to talk DH into doing the brunch). Can't wait to hear about the rest of the cruise...

nobodycares

11-23-2008, 08:14 AM

Great Trip Report.

I really enjoyed your posts about the MNSSHP. We were not brave enough to attempt that on top of the cruise so it was great to see your photos.

Keep those pictures coming. We were on deck 10 port side for the sail away party. It is fun to spot other DIs'ers in your photo's

We rebooked another Western too but for 8/22. I'd like to wait till 2010 but the Magic is abroad that summer.

Mom2PrincessesLinSy

11-23-2008, 09:37 AM

Hey hon, just finally got to catch up on the report, its been quite a busy week at work, and I haven't even been able to get online! (Darn kids!)

Looks like Palo Brunch wasn't to be missed. Too bad we did! I was really sad I never did get a reservation for it! Maybe on the Baltic I'll be able to get ONE!!

Glad to see you had just a great time and could let your hair down and relax. Most likely not something you get to experience too often!;)

Paula13

11-23-2008, 06:12 PM

Great report! We will be on a Western in May. We just found out that our DD will not be able to be in the stack & will be in the Disney Quest. Could you tell me what type of activies your son did. My DD is 13, were there many kids there around the 13-14 age group? Thanks in advance!

podsnel

11-23-2008, 08:11 PM

Again. Well, for DH and I it is again, as we had been here before a few years ago. That trip was to celebrate my, and our friend, Alex's, 40th birthday. It was all grown-ups and we were 4 couples- we stayed at the Pier House at the end of Duval St., and it was a BLAST even though it rained pretty much the entire time, and we never saw one of those famous Key West sunsets, unless you count the one that was going on when we were all waiting for the plane home at the airport (I don't). This trip to Key West was going to be just a little bit different than that!:rotfl: So I tried to think of things to do with the kids that would hold their attention. We knew the southernmost point was a must, and then we'd wing it. Thought they might like one of those electric cars for a couple of hours, so I arranged for one through Tropical Rentals. I called TR when we got off the ship, and they picked us up and took us to their agency. They were actually right around the corner from the southernmost, so we waited to start our 2 hour rental until after we had walked over to take the obligatory Key West pic-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0269.jpg

Guess who was standing behind us in line and graciously took the pic? Jenny2 to the rescue!!! I TOLD you, Jenny2 was everywhere on our vacation!!:rotfl:

After the DSs scouted the water for Cubans, and I don't mean cigars, we picked up our electric car and headed out for our Key West adventure in "WHERE'S the PARKING?":rotfl:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0275-1.jpg

We checked out the beach side-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0272-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0273-1.jpg

-and then went in the wrong direction that we weren't supposed to go in as per the rental agent. No worries! A quick u-turn across a 4 lane highway in our vehicle set at 25 mph max, and God-bless-us-every-one, we were on our way to the docks to see some boats! ( Really it was fine- we would never put our boys in danger- or at least I wouldn't, but I wasn't driving):scared1: .

Pay attention, here come those 6 toed cats...
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0276-1.jpg

Did ya see any?

We were heading over to the docks, I thought the boys might like the boats and ....key west ice cream factory, of course!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0278-1.jpg

Mommy and Daddy would like something else...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0279-1.jpg

Everyone's happy! While looking at the boats, we saw some fish-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0284-1.jpg

...and tried to psych the kids up for their first real snorkeling experience in a couple of days (more on THAT later!).

They liked climbing on the anchor-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0282-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0283-1.jpg

and then we decided it was time to take the electric car back. They were very nice and accomodating at Tropical Rentals, I would use them again if i was looking for an ec in KW. :thumbsup2 We turned down their offer of a ride back to port, preferring instead to go for a nice loooong walk down Duval St. My boys' favorites? Asking this guy some questions....

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0286-1.jpg

(he was sooooo tight-lipped!). But the best? PUPPIES! Teeny tiny little PUPPIES!!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0290.jpg

WHY they refuse to pose, I do not know, but they are too cute and toy-like, :cutie: and I think they know it!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0289.jpg

We stayed here awhile enjoying these little pups. Oddly, the shop owner did not find it at all amusing when I asked if we could buy one for our golden retriever to use as a chew toy.:confused3 :rotfl: (Really, that's a BIG joke- our golden would bow down and totally be run over and controlled by any of 'em!).

After the puppies, we continued down Duval on our way back to the Magic- the kids were really asking to go back to their clubs. Hmmm....what will Mom & Dad DO in Key West without kids????

Something for you to ponder while I see about the dishes....

podsnel

11-23-2008, 09:14 PM

:goodvibes We went back to the ship, and both boys were ecstatic about getting back to their new friends in their clubs (does it GET any better than 24 hours a day happiness all around???).

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0291.jpg

I had not been smart in the morning after brunch shoe-wise, so a quick trip back to the cabin remedied that situation. WOW. What a difference a supportive shoe makes.:worship: Just because you're not in the parks- don't forget your feet need the right shoes!:cloud9:

DH had one and only one concern on SUNDAY in Key West...."Where am I watching the GIANTS???!!!" I have to say, this may have been his only request for the whole week. So, we needed to make sure it all worked out! Our favorite place when we had been here before was Sloppy Joes- we just loved it there. Everyone is friendly, you can dance and dance and feel like you're 15 (when you know you aren't!) and who doesn't like that! Well, we weren't here for that endless dancing etc., but Sloppy's was playing the Giants and that's what works for DH!:thumbsup2 He stayed there, but I had other needs....I needed that calamari at Margaritaville. So I left DH in the hands of a very capable and friendly bartender, and I wandered the streets of Key West, alone, in search of squid. Oh come on! You're NEVER ALONE in Key West!!!:rotfl2:

I saw this on the way- the speedboats were in for races (just like last time we were here...hmmmmmmm) and had a parade-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0293.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0295.jpg

Fun fun fun! I sat at the bar at Margaritaville...

all by myself

and ordered calamari and a margarita- and I ate alllllllll that calamari. And that was a baaaaad idea- not that it wasn't scrumptious (although, truthfully, the last time I had it, it was one of a kind,and now- everyone has this calamari. But still, it's good, and worth the trip.) It was just very filling. For many, many hours. For me. Anyway....

Went back to see DH at Sloppy Joe's , where the really nice bartender had become his best friend, and we watched the game until the half-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0299.jpg

And then Carlos Santana came on stage!!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0300.jpg

Ok, not really, but doesn't it look like Carlos?
We were on our way back to the ship, but I just wanted to say.... If you are ever in Key West and wonder what this is-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0302.jpg

...it's the smallest bar in Key west. And it's a LOT of fun. And it's really, really small, I hope you like to stand. But it's not for today.

Because today, we need to see the Giants and the sunset. And when you're on the Magic, and in a port you soon will leave, there's only one way to do that....

Alice_on_WONDERland

11-23-2008, 09:44 PM

Hey girl!

Lovin' your trip report! Keep the good stuff comin'...can't wait for more! :thumbsup2

lindaso

11-23-2008, 10:34 PM

DH had one and only one concern on SUNDAY in Key West...."Where am I watching the GIANTS???!!!"

OK, I have really enjoyed your report so far but this line is by far the best!! That I can sooo relate to! I love your humor and your writing style...please keep the reports coming.

wuv tigger

11-24-2008, 08:27 AM

It's making my recovery :cool1:

disneyfan551

11-24-2008, 11:55 AM

Great report! You're getting me excited about my trip this weekend! :banana:

Ciciwoowoo

11-24-2008, 01:50 PM

I'm loving your trip report!

Ohhh...How I long to go on a Disney cruise... I really need to start saving for it!

wuv tigger

11-24-2008, 04:28 PM

I don't have Lyme disease!:woohoo:

just a viral inner ear infection w/ lots of "spinning tea cups" episodes

podsnel

11-25-2008, 07:54 AM

Hey girl!

Lovin' your trip report! Keep the good stuff comin'...can't wait for more! :thumbsup2

Thanks! I'll post more today-

OK, I have really enjoyed your report so far but this line is by far the best!! That I can sooo relate to! I love your humor and your writing style...please keep the reports coming.

Thanks so much, this comment made my day! You made me feel so special!!:blush:

Great report! You're getting me excited about my trip this weekend! :banana:

You're on the cruise on my birthday!!! Lucky you!! Enjoy every moment-

I'm loving your trip report!

Ohhh...How I long to go on a Disney cruise... I really need to start saving for it!

Yes, we all need to start saving for it. It is a wonderful and luxurious vacation where the pampering is...Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh......:cloud9:

I don't have Lyme disease!:woohoo:

just a viral inner ear infection w/ lots of "spinning tea cups" episodes

VERY happy to hear you don't have Lyme's!! Feel better!

I tried to post my next installment last night, but my computer was moving too slow and eventually froze up- :badpc: So I lost the whole thing and need to start again- I HATE when that happens!!! Anyway, I'll be back later today with some more adventures on the high seas-

Ellen:flower3:

Forever42

11-25-2008, 08:13 AM

!

I tried to post my next installment last night, but my computer was moving too slow and eventually froze up- :badpc: So I lost the whole thing and need to start again- I HATE when that happens!!! Anyway, I'll be back later today with some more adventures on the high seas-

Ellen:flower3:

Argh!

This tends to happen to me so often that I write out and format my longer posts in a Word document, then copy and paste over into the posting screen.

Looking forward to reading another installment! I'm at 10 days til our Eastern! :woohoo:

podsnel

11-25-2008, 08:42 AM

Argh!

This tends to happen to me so often that I write out and format my longer posts in a Word document, then copy and paste over into the posting screen.

Looking forward to reading another installment! I'm at 10 days til our Eastern! :woohoo:

You know, I have thought of doing that- it would make sense!! Maybe that's why I still haven't done it that way...:faint: :upsidedow

So what are you planning on doing on your Eastern? I would LOVE that itinerary, with that extra sea day. I was hoping that is what we'd be getting when we go in 2 years, but we're on the Western again- not that I'm complaining, loved the Western, just fun to do something different. Are you going to St John? We go there every January with friends, it's a beautiful, BEAUTIFUL island. So quiet and laid back- just the right amount of "stuff".

Forever42

11-25-2008, 09:08 AM

You know, I have thought of doing that- it would make sense!! Maybe that's why I still haven't done it that way...:faint: :upsidedow

Believe me, it took quite a few "lost posts" here and on other forums for me to start doing that. :headache:

So what are you planning on doing on your Eastern? I would LOVE that itinerary, with that extra sea day. I was hoping that is what we'd be getting when we go in 2 years, but we're on the Western again- not that I'm complaining, loved the Western, just fun to do something different. Are you going to St John? We go there every January with friends, it's a beautiful, BEAUTIFUL island. So quiet and laid back- just the right amount of "stuff".

Thank you for asking! We're absolutely looking forward to the extra sea day - we loved it SO much on our four night last year, and that's one of the main reasons we booked the Eastern this year. And we are going to St. John - I'm taking advantage of doing an excursion because I tend to worry too much about the ship leaving, getting lost, and all that. We'll be doing an "eco hike" and going to Honeymoon Beach and the sugar cane plantation.

Happy birthday, too!

podsnel

11-25-2008, 09:57 AM

DH hightailed it back to the ship to make sure he didn't miss a second of that Giants game (can you blame him? They ARE kickin' butt this season!!!:cheer2: ). He wasn't sure where he'd be watching on the ship, but as it turned out, the Giants were on the Dumbotron- so he got the best of both worlds- a Giants game on the biggest screen around AND a gorgeous Key West sunset all around.:cloud9:

I however, took my time getting back on board, because I really wanted to see exactly how they celebrated the sunset in Mallory Square- something we completely missed when we were here the last time. As it turns out, there is a LOT of activity in that square!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0303.jpg

Performers of every persuasion, there was something to see everwhere you turned. And of course THIS, which is what I was here to finally, finally see-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0314.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0304.jpg

A look out to Sunset Key-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0315.jpg

I decided to watch this especially mental...err, umm, I mean, entertaining...performer, who had a cat jumping through a ring of fire-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0316.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0319.jpg

That blur was the cat. When I had had enough of the Cat circus, I took some pics of the Magic- she is soooo pretty at night-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0320.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0324.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0328.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0306.jpg

Bye bye, HAL-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0321.jpg

Time to get back on the Magic, and see what the troops are up to. I saw in the Navigator that DS9's group was up on the Sports deck playing basketball and dodgeball. My kids LOVE both of those, but when you mention dodgeball they both get EXTREMELY excited, it has to be their most favorite thing. So without question I knew where DS9 would be-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0331.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0332.jpg

DS11 was VERY jealous when he heard DS9 had been doing this- but not to worry, he would have his chance tomorrow with the OQ group.

DH & DS11 were firmly planted on a mostly empty deck 9 watching the game, and got DS9 from his group when done playing sports so he could hang with them and watch, too.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0338.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0340.jpg

I would just like to point out the mug again- DH is now drinking from this mug at home when he has a beer- I think he likes to pretend he's still up there on that deck watching the game (you know, like me when I have coffee every morning out of my refillable Disney mugs, or wine (later in the day, usually) in my Mickey wine glass. Which he makes fun of.) But, of course, he would never own up to that one.;)

Some night shots of Key West-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0329.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0341.jpg

I thought it might be a good time for me to head back to the cabin and get ready for dinner. It occured to me that I had not tried the DOD yet, so I stopped at Signals to pick up a Key Lime Margarita. :sad2: I am not one for sweet drinks, so I asked her to make it less cloyingly sweet, if she could, and I believe she tried- I just don't think it's possible to make this one better. Ever.:crazy2:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0334.jpg

I had about 2 sips total, and those two sips on top of the mountain of fried calamari in my belly- well, it just was not a good mix! I tried to find my way to the cabin, but got a little lost along the way...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0342.jpg

...ending up on the jogging track. Thereby creating an all new jogging track experience- running around the wrong way with a gross drink in desperate search of a door out so you can get back to the cabin and throw said gross drink out!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0343.jpg

Please note how much is in my glass- that's all I had of that one!!

podsnel

11-25-2008, 10:04 AM

Believe me, it took quite a few "lost posts" here and on other forums for me to start doing that. :headache:

Thank you for asking! We're absolutely looking forward to the extra sea day - we loved it SO much on our four night last year, and that's one of the main reasons we booked the Eastern this year. And we are going to St. John - I'm taking advantage of doing an excursion because I tend to worry too much about the ship leaving, getting lost, and all that. We'll be doing an "eco hike" and going to Honeymoon Beach and the sugar cane plantation.

Happy birthday, too!

Oh, good- I am glad to hear you're going over to St John. It feels the way an island in the Caribbean should...laid back and untouched. We like to hike around there when we go, too- it's spectacular, one glorious, gorgeous vista after another. Hope you'll do a TR!!!

And thanks for wishing me HB!

wuv tigger

11-25-2008, 12:02 PM

Can I scraplift some pix you have to put in our cruise album?

I'll make sure you get credit for your pix :thumbsup2

wuv tigger

karajeboo

11-25-2008, 12:47 PM

Ellen your pics and TR are amazing!!! I love Key West but haven't been there since Spring Break in college, and well, can't remember a whole lot from that trip! ;) I tell DH that it would be fun to go on a cruise just to see Key West - and we're only about a 6 hr drive from there.....

And the ship just looks amazing too! I can't believe all the activities!!! I'm on the DCL website even as I write......

podsnel

11-25-2008, 12:54 PM

Can I scraplift some pix you have to put in our cruise album?

I'll make sure you get credit for your pix :thumbsup2

wuv tigger

Sure sweetie, help yourself!

Ellen your pics and TR are amazing!!! I love Key West but haven't been there since Spring Break in college, and well, can't remember a whole lot from that trip! ;) I tell DH that it would be fun to go on a cruise just to see Key West - and we're only about a 6 hr drive from there.....

And the ship just looks amazing too! I can't believe all the activities!!! I'm on the DCL website even as I write......

Key west has this effect on everyone, Spring break or not!:hippie:

podsnel

11-25-2008, 02:40 PM

I went back to the cabin, dumped that drink in the sink, and decided to put my feet up for a few. All the GO!GO!GO! I had been doing for the last three days was finally catching up with me, I think. Ya know, it's a good thing it was dinner at Animator's Palate tonight, because (being a first time Disney cruiser) I didn't want to miss the show- and I do believe this is what finally motivated me to get my butt out of the bed and out the door to dinner! (Not easy- those cabins are very comfy-cozy, especially with the myriad of movies available on the TV!!).

One of the things I love about being on a cruise is talking to your tablemates at the end of the day (at dinner) and hearing about everyone's adventures. We had our own family table, but we were close to two other tables, so we really weren't all by ourselves. We ended up spending every night talking to one table (I actually feel so bad now that we really didn't get to know the other table!) imparticular...a GP, Mom and 2 daughters who were also from NJ. I was so drawn to the woman, and felt like I had known her for years- mainly due to the fact that she could be the sister of my neighbor, Debbie! Even the kids thought so. Soooo funny. Anyway, we really enjoyed getting to know them through the week.

Tonight, DS9 placed his order...and got some chicken soup to start.:scared1:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0347.jpg

We were shocked, amazed, thrilled...DS9 has NEVER, EVER wanted to try any soup before. See? The ship really is Magic!!

Sorry, but I've forgotten what DS11 had for an appetizer. I know he had a lemonade...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0346.jpg

Christian and Ranzil were awesome as the night before, here is Christian with the boys-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0350.jpg

I got the seafood wrap, but I had very little of mine, tasty as it was, because my stomach was still overwhelmed from before.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0348.jpg

DH got a tomato salad, and finished off my seafood wrap.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0351.jpg

We ALL got the steak with the scallops for dinner, because it looked soooo good...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0352.jpg

...and it really was VERY yummy! Here is where the amazing, over-the-top Disney service comes in...

Christian cuts DS11's meat-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0354.jpg

and Ranzil cuts DS9's meat-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0353.jpg

Really, our sons felt like royalty- they loved all that attention!

Even with a full not so great tummy I had no problem polishing off that entree- none of us had a problem, for that matter!! But only the kids got dessert tonight-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0355.jpg

See the crayons in front of DS9? Ranzil always had a puzzle for all of us to keep us entertained during the meal. I know alot of people complain about dinner taking too long, but I never, ever felt that way. Dinner in the dining rooms was always another excellent, fun part of the day!

The walls were changing color, and it was time for the show-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0357.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0358.jpg

Here comes Mickey!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0359.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0360.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0361.jpg

Seeing that mouse is ALWAYS special, it doesn't matter how old you are, does it?:goodvibes

Our favorite servers in their magically transformed vests-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0363.jpg

And a last one of Christian doing something fun, I'm sure-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110206summer0364.jpg

The boys ran to their clubs, DH and I went back to the room for a bit. Then I decided to give myself a break for once, and hit the sack early. DH poured himself a cocktail in the room and went up to Diversions to watch whatever football was on- he would do that alot, pour one for himself in the room and then order one when that was done at whatever club we were in. I think it was very thrifty of him...but then, he is a CPA after all! ;)

Tomorrow- our first day at sea...AHHHHHHHHHHHHH.....:cloud9:

Forever42

11-25-2008, 02:43 PM

Oh, good- I am glad to hear you're going over to St John. It feels the way an island in the Caribbean should...laid back and untouched. We like to hike around there when we go, too- it's spectacular, one glorious, gorgeous vista after another. Hope you'll do a TR!!!

And thanks for wishing me HB!

You're making me even more excited, if that's possible!

And yes, I absolutely plan on doing a TR - I have a sorta pre-TR floating around here that I'll update when we get back. I'm trying to make a list of ALL the things that I know I wondered about, to take notes/pictures, so I can have just as detailed a TR as you.

And woohoo, two updates in one day!

LauraLap

11-25-2008, 04:07 PM

Hey, we actually had Christian and Ranzil too just last week on the Nov 15th cruise. Weren't they great??

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v628/69/62/594925305/n594925305_2156746_8706.jpg

podsnel

11-25-2008, 04:15 PM

You're making me even more excited, if that's possible!

And yes, I absolutely plan on doing a TR - I have a sorta pre-TR floating around here that I'll update when we get back. I'm trying to make a list of ALL the things that I know I wondered about, to take notes/pictures, so I can have just as detailed a TR as you.

And woohoo, two updates in one day!

I might actually have a third....I like to do my TR's before I forget everything, or before I go on another vacation and get confused!:confused: :rotfl: So that actually gives me until the middle of January to finish- because that's when I'm going to St John.:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: Glad I can help add to your excitement!!!

Hey, we actually had Christian and Ranzil too just last week on the Nov 15th cruise. Weren't they great??

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v628/69/62/594925305/n594925305_2156746_8706.jpg

Oh, I LOVE seeeing those guys!!!!! And yes, they WERE GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!

TigerKat

11-25-2008, 05:01 PM

I have to admit that I've never been the least bit interested in a cruise before but my dear El you're getting me to thinking about it!

podsnel

11-25-2008, 05:14 PM

I awoke to our day at sea full of vitality and vigor, going to bed early the night before really did wonders! I ran outside to see the view of Cuba-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0005.jpg

The view of Cuba never grows old, even though this is pretty much it for a whole day, it's just that IT'S CUBA!!!!!! Kind of cool to see it so close.:cool1:

I took a quick walk upstairs to deck 9 to get a cup of coffee, and the ship felt deserted-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0007.jpg

DS11 was up soon after I was, and I asked him if he'd like to go for a walk on the jogging track with his Mom, and maybe play some shuffleboard. I got an enthusiastic YES!!!!:yay: as DS11 had been bugging us about playing shuffleboard the whole time we had been onboard.

It was nice to be on that jogging track when I wasn't desperate to be somewhere else!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0008.jpg

Something you don't see everyday, unless you spend a lot of time on the jogging track (which lately, I was guilty of, even if not always by choice).

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0009.jpg

We went around the deck for several laps, and there were a lot of joggers and walkers out there (as compared to my experience in solitude the night before). Everyone seemed so happy!:goodvibes Everyone seemed so sweaty!:scared:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0010.jpg

DS11 and I finally stopped to fufill his dream of shuffleboard on the high seas.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0011.jpg

We were having so much fun, until this guy came running right through the middle of our game with an absolute disregard and disrespect for the sport of shuffling.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0012.jpg

Not once, not twice, but several times, completely annhilating our concentration and focus and even knocking one of us to the ground!!:scared1: Who knew shuffleboard was a contact sport?!

I wasn't trying to, but I won, proving ONCE AGAIN once and for all who the fairer/smarter/more skillful sex is in our house. Ahem.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0013.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0015.jpg

We had worked up an appetite(what with the tackling and all) and went to Topsiders- where DS11 was finished with me and his brekkie in favor of OQ in less than 3 minutes.:scared1:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0016.jpg

Next- it's a sea day, time to be pampered!!!!

wuv tigger

11-25-2008, 05:29 PM

wonderful pix

Thanks for taking us back to the MAGIC!:cloud9:

cindy18

11-25-2008, 05:50 PM

I just want to say that this is an absolutely terrific trip report. We're on the western in March, and we're about to make the final payment and start thinking about booking things. Your Key West stuff made me definitely want to rent an electric car and explore the town. Keep the report coming. It's just making me more and more excited for our trip! And thanks!!

OhMari

11-25-2008, 06:03 PM

Hi,
I made my way over here. I've never been on The Cruise ship forum board. Shame on me.
Looking forward to reading this.

You should copy/paste it to my board.

I think a dual one would be okay.

My boys watched the advertising for a Cruise on our POR tv,
and they told me, they want to go on a Cruise, but not a Disney Cruise.:rotfl:

It was good to meet, you even though we didn't have much time to talk. I don't know who organized the meet, but Camster invited me a week before we left, so I was a last minute person.

OhMari

I am back after reading this, "I am so going to win the war and get us on a Disney Cruise".

UGAFan0829

11-25-2008, 06:30 PM

Thought they might like one of those electric cars for a couple of hours, so I arranged for one through Tropical Rentals. I called TR when we got off the ship, and they picked us up and took us to their agency. They were actually right around the corner from the southernmost, so we waited to start our 2 hour rental until after we had walked over to take the obligatory Key West pic-

After the DSs scouted the water for Cubans, and I don't mean cigars, we picked up our electric car and headed out for our Key West adventure in "WHERE'S the PARKING?":rotfl:

I'm glad that you talked about this...We've been thinking of getting an electric car when we're there as well. But after looking at lots of pics of Key West, I was wondering about the parking. How did it work out for y'all? Do you think we'd be better off to walk? I don't know a lot about where everything's at in KW, but I know that there are several places that we're thinking of trying to visit, such as the Southernmost point, the Hemingway House, Hard Rock, Margaritaville, Sloppy Joe's, The Hog's Breath and maybe The Key Lime place. Do you think we'd be able to walk to all these places, or would we need a car?

Reading your report is not only very exciting since we're doing the same ports at the same time of year we'll be going, but it's really helpful reading about what you guys did. Can't wait for more!

alan_renfroe

11-25-2008, 10:40 PM

Awesome updates, Ellen!! How did DS11 like shuffleboard? Our DS11 would like to try that as well.....but just like you, I think I would have to "school" him!!! And what's up with the insensitive passer by? Geeessh!! :laughing:

eyeheartgoofy

11-25-2008, 11:53 PM

I'm really enjoying your report! We are going on a 7 night Western this summer ... I'm really getting psyched!!!

scriv2

11-26-2008, 12:06 AM

Love your TR so far!! We are also booked on the Oct 30, 2010 cruise and can't wait! We did a 4 nite this past August and am looking forward to the 7 nite western.

podsnel

11-26-2008, 09:56 AM

wonderful pix

Thanks for taking us back to the MAGIC!:cloud9:

You're welcome!

I just want to say that this is an absolutely terrific trip report. We're on the western in March, and we're about to make the final payment and start thinking about booking things. Your Key West stuff made me definitely want to rent an electric car and explore the town. Keep the report coming. It's just making me more and more excited for our trip! And thanks!!

That's great! Key West is a lot of fun- you'll have a blast!

Hi,
I made my way over here. I've never been on The Cruise ship forum board. Shame on me.
Looking forward to reading this.

You should copy/paste it to my board.

I think a dual one would be okay.

My boys watched the advertising for a Cruise on our POR tv,
and they told me, they want to go on a Cruise, but not a Disney Cruise.:rotfl:

It was good to meet, you even though we didn't have much time to talk. I don't know who organized the meet, but Camster invited me a week before we left, so I was a last minute person.

OhMari

I am back after reading this, "I am so going to win the war and get us on a Disney Cruise".

Hi! I'm glad you found me!!:goodvibes That meet of ours was too fast- it was over in a flash. I think it all kind of came together on either one of Cammie's TRs or on one of mine this past summer, we all kind of realized we would be in WDW at the same time. It may be that Cammie and Kathy were talking about it first, I would have to go back and re-read it first to be sure. Anyway, I am very glad you were able to join us no matter HOW it was we all got there!!:thumbsup2 I'm looking forward to reading the rest of your TR, too!!

I would be happy to put my trip on your board- I didn't even know that was allowed or could be done. How would I do it?

I'm glad that you talked about this...We've been thinking of getting an electric car when we're there as well. But after looking at lots of pics of Key West, I was wondering about the parking. How did it work out for y'all? Do you think we'd be better off to walk? I don't know a lot about where everything's at in KW, but I know that there are several places that we're thinking of trying to visit, such as the Southernmost point, the Hemingway House, Hard Rock, Margaritaville, Sloppy Joe's, The Hog's Breath and maybe The Key Lime place. Do you think we'd be able to walk to all these places, or would we need a car?

Reading your report is not only very exciting since we're doing the same ports at the same time of year we'll be going, but it's really helpful reading about what you guys did. Can't wait for more!

Hi! Well...how much of a walker are you? Hog's Breath is on the way to Duval St. from the port, and Duval is where Sloppy's is and Margaritaville (not sure about Hard Rock) are, each within 2 blocks and then another 2 blocks. The Key Lime on a stick is over by the docks, which are to the left of the beginning of Duval where Hog's Breath is. But the KL on a S is really everywhere. All those places are REALLY easy to walk to. The SP and Hemingway are right near each other, but they are more of an ambitious hike- not that it's undoable, it's just alot longer, especially when you don't know where you are. Tropical Rentals picked us up at the CVS at the end of Duval St and we got a ride from them to their agency, but we walked from there to the SP- we could have also walked from there to the Butterflies (they were right behind them) or Hemingway's House, if we had wanted to see those things. The parking was ok by the beach, and ok by the docks on side streets- they had meters but it was clear no one was using them over there. There was also parking for $10/day, but what's the point of that when you're renting a car for 2 hours? Parking on Duval St is next to impossible, so I wouldn't count on that. But Duval is very walkable, so I wouldn't waste my car rental time going there. We walked back into town after we dropped the car back, and that was good, because there was a LOT to see on Duval St (sometimes a little TOO much ;) , but when we were walking my kids weren't reading tshirts, so it was ok. It was just when my DH stopped for a bathroom break that they got an eyeful in a window. Even then, it wasn't horrible. I think the walk OUT there and then a walk BACK would have been overkill on the walking, and my kids would not have been as happy as they were. Glad we had the car for a bit, and then finished up with a walk, it worked for my family. Have fun!

Awesome updates, Ellen!! How did DS11 like shuffleboard? Our DS11 would like to try that as well.....but just like you, I think I would have to "school" him!!! And what's up with the insensitive passer by? Geeessh!! :laughing:

Hi Alan! He really liked shuffleboard- we had a great time doing that. He had played in HHIR this past summer, so he knew what he was getting into ahead of time.

I'm really enjoying your report! We are going on a 7 night Western this summer ... I'm really getting psyched!!!

Thanks for reading!!!:goodvibes HAve a BLAST!!

Love your TR so far!! We are also booked on the Oct 30, 2010 cruise and can't wait! We did a 4 nite this past August and am looking forward to the 7 nite western.

Hi there, Cruise buddy! Looking forward to meeting you in 2 years- :yay:

plutospup

11-26-2008, 06:03 PM

bfosbenner

11-28-2008, 12:40 PM

I am at work today.:furious:
Yea, fun!

3 weeks ago we were eating at Cookies! MMMMMMMMMM:cool1:

Yall shop for those deals!

podsnel

11-28-2008, 01:01 PM

It was a great day in Key West! Beautiful weather, and lots of interesting sights. The photos of the "Cat Man" show had me laughing. "Clap, Clap, Clap for Oscar"! It's like a train wreck. You can't help but watch it! The guy is mentally deranged, but the cats are trained to do tricks. I've never seen anything like it.

I'm looking forward to your next installment!!

Yes- that's exactly how it is...like a train wreck!!:rotfl:

I am at work today.:furious:
Yea, fun!

3 weeks ago we were eating at Cookies! MMMMMMMMMM:cool1:

Yall shop for those deals!

Yea, that day was definitely more fun than this one! I'm still cleaning up from yesterday's feast- it's a lot of dishes!!

I never get to go shopping on Black Friday, DH always has to work for one thing and frankly I'm usually exhausted from the days before. I LOVE to cook, but after a big one like Thanksgiving, I usually need some down time.:goodvibes

Hope everyone's Thanksgiving was happy! I'll be back with my next installment soon-

Ellen

podsnel

11-28-2008, 01:59 PM

Hi- Just wanted to warn you, there is a pop-up on Photobucket that I have gotten twice and thankfully knew not to trust and download. It looks like a very urgent message from Windows, telling you that a malicious virus has been detected and you need to download some update to your system right now to prevent the worm from harming your hard drive. If you look carefully, the things you would be downloading are the viruses themselves- Trojan Horse. It REALLY looks like it's authentic, it looks like windows, but it's not. My friend, Cammie, downloaded this and now her computer is a disaster!! Just be careful not to click on anything, it looks very urgent, but it's sooo bad!!

wuv tigger

11-28-2008, 03:52 PM

He got 40% off of a book for my mom in large print. Even with the discount it was still almost $20.00 ... My Mom would freak :scared1: out if she new how much books cost now.

wuv tigger

podsnel

11-28-2008, 03:58 PM

AT 11:00 DH & I had our first spa appointment, an Exotic Rasul. The rep brings you back to the rooms, explains the order to put the products on, and leaves and locks the door. Everyone knows this room is about a LOT more than just detoxifying and slimming down with Algae products. ;) What I find MOST fascinating about the Exotic Rasul treatment is that Disney says it is for UP TO 3 GUESTS!!!! Hmmm...that's pretty sexy for the mouse, don't cha think?;) Well, boring us, we went in alone with just us 2, that was exciting enough!!:rotfl: Anyway, here are some pics of the rooms before we got them all muddied up- Here are the goopie things to smear on-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0017-1.jpg

Here are their premium products you can use to your heart's content once you have finished with the others-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0019-1.jpg

Though this door is the steam room-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0018-1.jpg

In the steam room we used the hose with the cool water to make the seats bearable- but the steam felt good!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0020-1.jpg

That's a great treatment, I would sign up for it again in a heartbeat!!

We thought we'd stop in for a bit at the rainforest room after we partook of the icy cold cucumber water. The rainforest room is GORGEOUS, and incredibly relaxing-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0021-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0022-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0024-1.jpg

Really, it is completely relaxing in there, and I was amazed at how beautiful it was- it is incredible it is on a ship. We laid on the heated tile lounges for a little bit, then headed out. I actually went up and got into my workout clothes and spent some time in that awesome and motivating fitness center (I didn't get to do all the weights I had wanted to the day before, so I wanted to finish it all up. Plus do some work on my belly- tonight was formal night, and I needed to get into that gown!!) DH went up on Deck 9 and laid around reading his book while watching DS9 play in the pool-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0025-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0026.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0027-1.jpg

After I worked out, I showered in one of the incredible showers up there in the locker room- wow. It's great in there, too.

Anyway, I made DS9 hop out of the pool because look who was coming by the Goofy pool to say hi-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0030-1.jpg

Then he was back to his pals in the pool-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0031-1.jpg

It was now DS11's turn to play Dodge ball and basketball on the sports deck-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0032-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0033-1.jpg

As usual, he was having the time of his life with everyone in the club. DH and I grabbed paninis and salads for lunch, and we did a little more of this-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0036-1.jpg

Dh had no plan to do anything but exactly this for the rest of the afternoon, especially when DS9 hopped out of one pool and into another to watch "Finding Nemo" on the Dumbotron. Well, we were supposed to be going to High Tea at Palo- soooo, I went on a hunt to find a more willing participant- luckily, I ran into Sherry from the plane! She did a little manuevering, and at 3:00 we met at Palo for tea. First we chose our teas, ( I had the Chai, it was lovely) and they were poured and our sandwiches brought.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0037-1.jpg

The sandwiches were very tasty, I especially liked the foccacia veggie one. Then we had the desserts-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0038-1.jpg

And they served us the best of it all, the lemon tiramisu, which i am sad to say I forgot to take a picture of. I scarfed it down in too much of a hurry, it was THAT GOOD. Sherry was great company, and it kills me that I don't have a photo of our tea together!! That would be due to the fact that after I had inhaled the tiramisu, it was after 4:00- I was supposed to meet DH at 4 in Sessions for the Martini tasting!!!:scared1: Sherry insisted on paying the bill, she said she was so glad she got to experience Palo. How nice!!

Martinis and more in the next post!

wuv tigger

11-28-2008, 05:19 PM

We gotta do the Palo next cruise.

Mom2PrincessesLinSy

11-29-2008, 08:33 PM

MMMMMMM, you gotta love the Palo High Tea. I was soooo sad I didn't get to do it this trip. But DH just wouldn't bite, and I wasn't going by myself! Glad you enjoyed it!

Camster0307

11-30-2008, 11:40 AM

podsnel

11-30-2008, 02:15 PM

I need to interupt this trip report becaus I've heard a rumor.......................

DID A CERTAIN SOMEONE CELEBRATE A BIRTHDAY THIS WEEKEND????:rolleyes1
Fess up, woman! If you did, please let us know so we can send on some very deserved special wishes!

(I can't believe you didn't mention it when we spoke the other day!)

Yes...yesterday was my birthday...:blush:

What was I supposed to say? "Hi Cammie, how's that computer virus? Tomorrow's my birthday!" ????????????:rotfl: :rotfl:

E

TigerKat

11-30-2008, 02:26 PM

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll151/Blanisek_bucket/Blanisek61/happy-birthday-friend.gif

Camster0307

11-30-2008, 02:33 PM

Yes...yesterday was my birthday...:blush:

What was I supposed to say? "Hi Cammie, how's that computer virus? Tomorrow's my birthday!" ????????????:rotfl: :rotfl:
E

SURE!!!!! Why not?

So, better late than never...............................

http://bestsmileys.com/birthday1/10.gif
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELLEN!!!!!!
http://bestsmileys.com/birthday1/7.gif
http://bestsmileys.com/birthday1/10.gif
http://bestsmileys.com/birthday1/18.gif

I hope you had a GREAT day and did something really, really fun!

alan_renfroe

11-30-2008, 04:48 PM

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ELLEN!!!
I hope you had a wonderful birthday and Thanksgiving!!

LOVED the updates. That spa looks amazing! Now that is a vacation!

shasess

11-30-2008, 10:17 PM

I love, love, love your TR!!! I can't wait for another update!

MAGICFOR2

12-01-2008, 02:54 AM

Happy Belated Birthday, Ellen! I'm loving your TR! We loved the exotic Rasul, too - can you use the RF room as part of that treatment, or did you have a RF pass?

podsnel

12-01-2008, 07:43 AM

I love, love, love your TR!!! I can't wait for another update!

Hi Thanks so much!!:wave2:

Happy Belated Birthday, Ellen! I'm loving your TR! We loved the exotic Rasul, too - can you use the RF room as part of that treatment, or did you have a RF pass?

Thanks! We had a RF pass as part of the REAS- but I think you can use it if you've had a spa treatment that day.

MMMMMMM, you gotta love the Palo High Tea. I was soooo sad I didn't get to do it this trip. But DH just wouldn't bite, and I wasn't going by myself! Glad you enjoyed it!

When DH found out he didn't have to go, he was sooooooooooooooooo happy!! Not sitting and having tea was like winning the lottery for him!

Thanks for all the Birthday wishes, everyone! You've made me feel very special!!

Forever42

12-01-2008, 07:54 AM

Happy belated birthday!

And thank you thank you for the pictures of the Rasul! One week from right now, DH and I will be there :lovestruc

podsnel

12-03-2008, 08:50 AM

Happy belated birthday!

And thank you thank you for the pictures of the Rasul! One week from right now, DH and I will be there :lovestruc

Thank-YOU and you're welcome- my DH thought I was ridiculous taking pictures in there- he seemed to get over it pretty quickly, though, once the treatment started!;) :rotfl: Have fun!! I can promise I will never cruise on DCL without the rasul- it's wonderfully amazing!!

podsnel

12-03-2008, 10:10 AM

If you can remember back, in my last post I said good-bye to Sherry at Palo for High Tea and ran down to Sessions to meet up with DH and a group of about 30 thirsty travelers. On this cruise, they offered tastings of martinis, beer or tequila/margaritas. DH is a martini guy, so he agreed to that one (although I personally am highly adaptable to ALL drinking situations, and could easily have done all three....although, probably not back 2 back, THAT might have caused some problems...:rotfl2: ). Anyway...

We were to taste 4 or 5 martinis, the first was a traditional gin martini. DH is a vodka martini man, he never drinks gin, but he actually really liked this! I, of course, liked it too. Hiccup***

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0040.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0041.jpg

The instructor, whose name i can not remember and could NEVER spell or pronounce, but who I learned was from Poland and had a LOT of potato-vodka-drinkin-family back home, had made it clear we would be required to finish every last drop, and everyone in the room did- except for those who had a little left in the glass and got a Dirty Martini chaser. But I had already finished mine..oops.

Next we tried a Lemon Drop Martini (who knew you could have a whole glass? I thought lemon drops were only shots! See, I'm learning sooo much in this class!) which went down like water. The room of thirsty travelers is feeling REALLY good now- it turns out there were a ton of people in the room who were repeat Martini tasters. Apparently, you can never learn too much about drinking. Of course!

After the lemon drop, things went more "frufru"- our instructor explained that real martinis are a very high percentage of alcohol, but since so many people want to try one, they have come up with a lot of frufru ones so everyone can have fun drinking out of the sexy glass!! :thumbsup2 We had an Ivory Keys martini and a Cherry Dream martini. They were yummy, the Cherry one was very dessert-ish!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0042.jpg

Another thing she explained was it was very important to use high quality liquor when making martinis- it not only tastes better, but you'll appreciate it the next day.:upsidedow

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0039.jpg

What an excellent class- learning is so much fun on the Magic!!:rotfl: Especially with such a funny and entertaining teacher. She said she really loved teaching the class, it gave her the opportunity to get paid for drinking!!:rotfl: Picture time!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0043.jpg

Both DH and I enjoyed that so much- would definitely sign up for it again... maybe next time we'll do the Secret Rasul AFTER the martini tasting...hmmmmmm- now THERE'S an idea!!:idea:

We stumbled back to the room for a little down time before getting ready for formal night. DS9 was already back in the cabin, watching Speed Racer for the hundreth time. We thought it might be a good idea to order some room service-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0046.jpg

A martini induced photo of pretty much nothing-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0044.jpg

Speed Racer on the new flat screen-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0047.jpg

Enjoying the couch while DS9 takes his shower...AAAHHHHHH...

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0048.jpg

DS9 ordered a grilled cheese and we split a BLT. I love that room service comes sooooooooooooo fast AND is FREE!! We had taken the advice from the boards of keeping an envelope of singles in a drawer, so we were always prepared for a tip.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0049.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0051.jpg

I told DH to go shower in the locker room where the AMAZING showers are, and I hit the one in our room- yes, I am an idiot. Afterwards, we got ready at a leisurely pace, enjoying the sunset and the verandah and the nice spa robes from our REAS. Another AAAHHHHH....

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0052.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0054.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0055.jpg

Next up...Men in Black and a mouse in gold, who make me feel like a princess!

Forever42

12-03-2008, 10:15 AM

podsnel

12-03-2008, 10:23 AM

What a wonderful update :cloud9:

So there's only 4 mini martinis in the tasting, now? There were five last year :mad:

I think we may be doing a couple tastings back to back, we'll see how that goes :scared:

And Rasul after martini tasting is a BRILLIANT idea! Too bad ours is so early. Mimosas beforehand though perhaps...

(Can I sneak some champagne in the rasul? :laughing: )

Well, they were counting the 5th martini as the dirty one, but most people didn't have that one because they were done with their gin martini. And, why not bring champagne in the rasul? Just make sure no nosy budinsky overly uptight and unrelaxed spa goers see you doing it- but that story is for another post..

Forever42

12-03-2008, 10:26 AM

Well, they were counting the 5th martini as the dirty one, but most people didn't have that one because they were done with their gin martini. And, why not bring champagne in the rasul? Just make sure no nosy budinsky overly uptight and unrelaxed spa goers see you doing it- but that story is for another post..

I'm fascinated by dirty martinis since they're a non sweet beverage that doesn't contain tomato - I'm really trying to make myself like them.

I'd feel like a weird lush carrying champagne in, I think...but I could always tuck it in a bag? :rolleyes1

no nosy budinsky overly uptight and unrelaxed spa goers

I love this and I can't wait for the story! :rotfl:

NikkiLovesWDW!

12-03-2008, 02:10 PM

podsnel

12-03-2008, 03:17 PM

Thanks for the update! Is the drink-tasting something you have to sign up for in advance? What is the cost? I like the sound of a margarita tasting...

and you don't even know what I thought was in your husband's hand on the verandah shot! I had to look very closely to figure out it was a cell phone! If you look from far away, it looks like something that would really make you relax...but would not get past security! The far off look on his face did not help either!!

OMG, Nikki- what did you think is in his hand???? :rotfl2: I signed up at Guest Services that morning for the tasting- it was $15pp, and it was worth it, we did really enjoy ourselves, as did everyone in the room. I like the sound of the magarita one, too...next time I'll have to hunt down a Disser to do it with me!:thumbsup2

Camster0307

12-03-2008, 03:23 PM

They have martini-tastings?! Ok - I'm sold! Where do I sign up for a cruise? :hyper: http://bestsmileys.com/drinking/7.gif

Another thing she explained was it was very important to use high quality liquor when making martinis- it not only tastes better, but you'll appreciate it the next day.:upsidedow

I agree with this statement 100%!!!! (I've learned the hard way! ;) )

karajeboo

12-03-2008, 04:17 PM

Yes...yesterday was my birthday...:blush:

What was I supposed to say? "Hi Cammie, how's that computer virus? Tomorrow's my birthday!" ????????????:rotfl: :rotfl:

E

Uh, yeah! So Happy BELATED Birthday!!!

Now did you have to sign up for everything you did BEFORE you left? Kinda like ADRs and such at WDW? And what were the "extras" on the cruise? What is included and what is not? I'm lost right now. And before I can present this to Jeff as an option, all my ducks must be in a row!

alan_renfroe

12-03-2008, 05:28 PM

TigerKat

12-03-2008, 06:39 PM

They have martini-tastings?! Ok - I'm sold! Where do I sign up for a cruise? :hyper: http://bestsmileys.com/drinking/7.gif

I spewed my cocktail on this one......:lmao: :lmao:

Camster0307

12-03-2008, 06:46 PM

I spewed my cocktail on this one......:lmao: :lmao:

Wanna join me?

(Oh good grief - could you imagine? http://bestsmileys.com/drinking/2.gif )

TigerKat

12-03-2008, 06:48 PM

Wanna join me?

(Oh good grief - could you imagine? http://bestsmileys.com/drinking/2.gif )

You betcha!:rotfl2:

Camster0307

12-03-2008, 07:04 PM

You betcha!:rotfl2:

:lmao:

dvc4life

12-04-2008, 08:42 AM

Ellen -

I am so enjoying your trip report. I just can't wait to go again in September. The robe you are wearing from the Rasul, is it yours to keep? I am just hearing about this and it sounds like something me and DH may want to consider. But after the tasting sessions of course :lmao: ! I would be a little more freespirited then :cool1:

I loved the Ivory Keys Martini so much, that after we got home I emailed Disney for the recipe and they sent it to me. Now, I can have them at home and remember sitting in Sessions with my DH just relaxing and having a great time.

Anxiously awaiting your next report!!! popcorn::

podsnel

12-04-2008, 09:46 AM

Great updates, Ellen. What a relaxing afternoon!!! If we go on that cruise, I will have to send DW to the Martini tasting while I enjoy the Margarita tasting...then meet up later at the spa!! OR better yet, both of us do the martini tasting one day and the margaritas the next. :worship:

Great pictures from the balcony. That view has GOT to be worth the money.

I vote for the martinis on one day and the tequila on the next!::yes::

Wanna join me?

(Oh good grief - could you imagine? http://bestsmileys.com/drinking/2.gif )

You betcha!:rotfl2:

Just to be clear...I am coming with you!!!!!:banana: (You'll need me to show you the ropes!;) )

Ellen -

I am so enjoying your trip report. I just can't wait to go again in September. The robe you are wearing from the Rasul, is it yours to keep? I am just hearing about this and it sounds like something me and DH may want to consider. But after the tasting sessions of course :lmao: ! I would be a little more freespirited then :cool1:

I loved the Ivory Keys Martini so much, that after we got home I emailed Disney for the recipe and they sent it to me. Now, I can have them at home and remember sitting in Sessions with my DH just relaxing and having a great time.

Anxiously awaiting your next report!!! popcorn::

The robes were to keep, but they were the robes from the REAS- the spa robes are left in the locker room when you are finished there. And fyi- I REALLY love wearing my robe at home, it was an excellent souvenir!

So if you have the Ivory Keys recipe, would you be able to post it here? Pretty please?:goodvibes I really liked Sessions aLOT, but we were rarely in that bar on this trip- next time I will spend more time in there because of the great wine experience I had in there on the last night- but you'll have to wait to see what it was...oh, the suspense.....:rotfl:

Forever42

12-04-2008, 10:18 AM

podsnel

12-04-2008, 10:24 AM

Uh, yeah! So Happy BELATED Birthday!!!

Now did you have to sign up for everything you did BEFORE you left? Kinda like ADRs and such at WDW? And what were the "extras" on the cruise? What is included and what is not? I'm lost right now. And before I can present this to Jeff as an option, all my ducks must be in a row!

Thank-you very much for the birthday wishes! Now, to answer your questions...

I signed up for SOME things before I left. The REAS package was the first thing, because that gave me the earlier window to book Palo, spa and excursions. Palo usually books up quickly, so the earlier you can book it, the better. There is always the possibility of booking it first thing when you get onboard, but you never know how that will work out. Of my excursions, I only booked one through DCL- on CC (Cataway Cay) we got the package for all of us to bicycle, snorkel, and have a float for the day. It was not necessary to book this ahead, I just did. Spa stuff I did book ahead, because the earlier you book that, the more choices you have for times- but there were open slots for different treatments onboard, as well, I just don't know what exactly. The rasul I would ALWAYS book ahead because they only have the one room and it's very popular. On board they usually had spa specials on port days if you wanted to add something. Of all those things, I only prepaid the REAS- everything else was charged as it happened on the ship.

As far as what's included? I think DCL includes more than other cruiselines. All the meals in the regular dining rooms (not Palo or the coffee drinks in Cove Cafe, or popcorn/candy outside before the shows) and non- alcoholic drinks like sodas and milk while you're eating plus (and this is where DCL is different) everyone has access to sodas, punch and coffee (maybe some juice, I forget) at a drink station on Deck 9 all day long. If you go to a bar and get a coke, they're going to charge you. If you get it yourself 100x a day at the beverage station- no charge. The other special DCL thing is that they allow you to bring drinks onboard. This would be soooo easy for you, Kara, living in Fla and driving to the port. You could bring a case of water, a case of wine, vodka, rum- whatever you want. On other lines you're lucky if you can sneak a single bottle on board in your luggage to keep in your room. That makes a HUGE difference- what Pods was doing every night was going back to the cabin and pouring a vodka on the rocks in the room and bringing it with him to wherever we went- it was not a problem. If you brought rum, you could easily mix it with free juice or coke, etc. We could have brought a glass of wine with us to dinner, but we didn't because we knew we had the wine pkg. coming. If you bring a bottle to the dinner table, though, they'll charge you a corkage fee of I think $15, which depending on what wine you drink might save $$ or might not. All the great shows, and on-board entertainment is included except bingo (unless you just want to watch, but what fun is that) or something like the martini tasting, which I booked on the day I did it- it was $15pp. All the movies in the room and theatre are free, and they have more movies available than any other ship I've experienced, too. And the kids clubs are included- if you had a baby, you'd have to pay for babysitting, but that's all. Also, the dining rotation is assigned to you- you don't make ADR's- you rotate between the 3 dining rooms, and the servers rotate with you which is AMAZING, because they will remember everything you like and don't like, and they'll entertain and really get to know your daughter. My kids LOVED our servers.:love: So did we. Palo costs $5pp for High Tea and $15pp for brunch and dinner. We had the REAS, so our dinner was paid for with that. But we left additional tips, because the service was so good. At the end of the cruise, you tip the 2servers, dining room mgr and cabin steward- there are amounts suggested per person, per day. It seems like a big wad of cash at the end, but if you break it down, it's not so much and they are worth every dime, and then some if they are good (ours were). Tips are added to drink purchases and you tip for the spa. I brought bags of toblerone for the counselors in the 2 clubs which the kids gave to say thank-you on the last night. I think that's it. Hope this helps you get everything in order when you make your case with Jeff!! And remember- Oct 30th, 2010!!!!!!!!:banana:

podsnel

12-04-2008, 10:46 AM

I hope she doesn't mind, but I found the recipe earlier when she mentioned it!

This drink is shaken with ice and served straight up in a chilled martini glass with pineapple wedge. Below are the ingredients.

1 ½ oz Malibu
½oz Midori
1 oz Pineapple Juice
½oz Half & Half

I am SO ordering one of those.

And oh no, we're leaving tomorrow!! I won't find out what your great wine experience was! :sad:

Thanks!! And because you're SPECIAL and it's your honeymoon-I'll leak the big story about wine at Sessions!:rotfl:

When i ordered a glass of Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, it came in a lovely and delicious frosted glass-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110906summer0044.jpg

Immediately after she poured it, she brought out a four sectioned plate. In three of the sections were small bits of food, each representing something you would either taste or smell in this wine.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110906summer0045.jpg

In the fourth section, there was a small scroll, and when I unrolled it, it had info about the wine and a description of each element on the plate.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110906summer0049.jpg

I am a wine lover, and this was the BEST way to be served a glass of wine that I have ever seen- it was like having a little wine class!! If I had known about this on the first night, I can promise you I would have been in there every night for a different wine. On my next cruise, I will be. Just so special!!

There. Now you know everything! So go pack some sexy nighties and go on that honeymoon!!!!!:love: :love:

Forever42

12-04-2008, 11:11 AM

Thanks!! And because you're SPECIAL and it's your honeymoon-I'll leak the big story about wine at Sessions!:rotfl:

There. Now you know everything! So go pack some sexy nighties and go on that honeymoon!!!!!:love: :love:

Oh WOW! :love:

I know where we're going to be Saturday night!!

And I love love love NZ Sauvignon Blancs, so I may have to go with your exact choice there.

Thank you thank you thank you!

*off to pack the sexy nighty after work* :cloud9:

dvc4life

12-05-2008, 08:46 AM

Thanks!! And because you're SPECIAL and it's your honeymoon-I'll leak the big story about wine at Sessions!:rotfl:

When i ordered a glass of Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, it came in a lovely and delicious frosted glass-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110906summer0044.jpg

Immediately after she poured it, she brought out a four sectioned plate. In three of the sections were small bits of food, each representing something you would either taste or smell in this wine.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110906summer0045.jpg

In the fourth section, there was a small scroll, and when I unrolled it, it had info about the wine and a description of each element on the plate.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110906summer0049.jpg

I am a wine lover, and this was the BEST way to be served a glass of wine that I have ever seen- it was like having a little wine class!! If I had known about this on the first night, I can promise you I would have been in there every night for a different wine. On my next cruise, I will be. Just so special!!

There. Now you know everything! So go pack some sexy nighties and go on that honeymoon!!!!!:love: :love:

Thanks for sharing the Ivory Keys recipe. The only thing about making it at home is you half to double it in order to fill a martini glass! The first time we made it it only filled the glass half way. Well, that was no good. :laughing: So, know we double it and it fills the glass just right.

As for the wine in sessions, my DH loved, absolutely loved :love: it there. He thought it was the cream of the crop, going down before supper and having wine and cheese and chocolate and grapes. We found out about this on day 3, I think, and we were there every night after that!

Have fun! :yay:

Forever42

12-05-2008, 10:05 AM

As for the wine in sessions, my DH loved, absolutely loved :love: it there. He thought it was the cream of the crop, going down before supper and having wine and cheese and chocolate and grapes. We found out about this on day 3, I think, and we were there every night after that!

Have fun! :yay:

Oh man oh man!

The car is packed and I think I've told DH about 10 times that we need to do Sessions every night.

I keep thinking, "we have a WHOLE week!" but then I think.. "ONLY a week!" :scared1:

Thank you so much Ellen for your report, it's really helped the last few days just sliiiide on by.

Off to Target, lunch, and the bank and then the port!

podsnel

12-05-2008, 12:31 PM

Thanks for sharing the Ivory Keys recipe. The only thing about making it at home is you half to double it in order to fill a martini glass! The first time we made it it only filled the glass half way. Well, that was no good. :laughing: So, know we double it and it fills the glass just right.

As for the wine in sessions, my DH loved, absolutely loved :love: it there. He thought it was the cream of the crop, going down before supper and having wine and cheese and chocolate and grapes. We found out about this on day 3, I think, and we were there every night after that!

Have fun! :yay:

Thanks for the tip on the Ivory Keys- I think I may make them on Christmas Day! And lucky you figuring out Sessions so early on the cruise- it is sooooo grown-up in there!!!! Loved it!

Oh man oh man!

The car is packed and I think I've told DH about 10 times that we need to do Sessions every night.

I keep thinking, "we have a WHOLE week!" but then I think.. "ONLY a week!" :scared1:

Thank you so much Ellen for your report, it's really helped the last few days just sliiiide on by.

Off to Target, lunch, and the bank and then the port!

YOU'RE SO WELCOME!!! Have a FABULOUS honeymoon, can't wait to hear about (almost) all of it!! Enjoy every second of the fastest week of your life (my DS11 STILL thinks time flows at a faster rate onboard the Magic!!).....:thumbsup2

podsnel

12-06-2008, 09:05 PM

I just uploaded my Shutters pics, and these 2 are from embarkation. I thought I'd put them in before I do formal night. Soooooo...Look! We're ready to go on the Disney Cruise!!!:banana: :woohoo: :woohoo:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/IMG_0001.jpg

It is REALLY freaking me out that DS11 is almost as tall as I am!:sad2:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/IMG_0002.jpg

Ok- back to our regularly scheduled program....

alan_renfroe

12-06-2008, 09:42 PM

Those Tie-Dye Mickey t-shirts are GREAAT!!!!!! Did you do those yourself?

podsnel

12-06-2008, 10:28 PM

Those Tie-Dye Mickey t-shirts are GREAAT!!!!!! Did you do those yourself?

Kind of- it was an activity at HHIR last summer, and I signed up the 4 of us but when it came time to make the shirts, the boys wouldn't get out of the pool because there were some games going on. So DH came with me, and did alot of the rubberbanding because my hands were hurting from kayaking (I have an inflammatory arthritis), and then he left and the CMs were making them with me! Then I actually went back and made another one for DS14, but by then I was a pro!;)

Sophie_2003

12-06-2008, 10:43 PM

I love the embarkation pics. Cute borders!!!

Did you get any word on the photopass progress?

podsnel

12-07-2008, 09:43 AM

I love the embarkation pics. Cute borders!!!

Did you get any word on the photopass progress?

Hi Sophie!

No, I didn't hear anything about when the photopass would be up, that will make life a LOT easier, won't it!

MAGICFOR2

12-07-2008, 10:07 AM

podsnel

12-07-2008, 11:05 AM

So we were all ready for the night I'd really been looking forward to- Formal Night! I am a tomboy, a one-of-the-guys kind of a girl, but when it comes to getting all schmancy in a gown? I am 100% girlie girl. Yea, I know....I'm an enigma.:lmao: I could not wait to see all my boys dressed in tuxedos, I mean, when does THIS ever happen? And I had a surprise for my men- a pony tail surprise. My friend Laura, who cuts my hair, loaned me a ponytail for this night- and it was all SO MUCH FUN!!!! So off we went to have our photo taken with the Mouse in his golden tuxedo, and we were 2nd in line- that's AMAZING!!! While we were waiting, we took a humiliation pic of the boys- notice DS11's attitude-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0057.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0058.jpg

We walked up to Mickey, and do you know, he bowed to me and kissed my hand! :blush: I felt like such a princess!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0059.jpg

That was sooooo special. I have loads of photos of us with Mickey in the parks, but Mickey and all of us dressed to the nines? Priceless! Love the Disney Cruise!!!!!

Next we made our way over to meet Captain Thord and have a free cocktail-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0060.jpg

Our Shutters pics-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/IMG_0006.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/IMG_0004.jpg

We ran into some EDC's and chatted with them for a bit, then went back to the cabin for a few minutes before it was time for dinner, just to sit on the verandah and enjoy the evening at sea-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0062.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0068.jpg

LOVE those little men in black!!

We were on to dinner, the Golden Mickeys menu. By now, the boys were used to ordering everything, so when Christian came over and DS9 said, "tonight for the appetizer, I'll start with.." well, it just kind of cracked us all up, he sounded and looked like such a grown-up!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0077.jpg

DS11 ordered a strawberry smoothie-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0079.jpg

To start, I got the Double-baked Aged Reggiano Parmesan Souffle (Mindy at the next table recommended it)

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0080.jpg

DS9 ordered the Grilled Scallops with Pink Grapefruit Glaze (that was a shock!! It was yummy, though. I think DH ordered it, too)

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0081.jpg

DS11 ordered Prosciutto with Honeydew Melon

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0082.jpg

I had to try the Broccoli and Maytag Blue Cheese Soup- yum!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0083.jpg

Both DSs had Grilled Ginger Lime Swordfish Steak-again, I am in shock!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0084.jpg

DH & I both ordered Rack of New Zealand Lamb with a Dijon Mustard Crust-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0086.jpg

I just wish mine had been less done- I prefer it Medium rare. We also shared Jumbo Shrimp & Porcini Mushroom Tagliatelle (but I think this is papardelle)

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0088.jpg

That was very, very good! On to dessert (because you just HAVE to, they all look so good!!) The Golden Chocolate, Chocolate Award-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0089.jpg

And a Ricotta Creme Brulee

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0090.jpg

OMG, that was a TON of food!!! We waddled out of Parrot Cay very satisfied, I can honestly say we certainly got our money's worth that night!!! We went back to the room so the boys could change out of their monkey suits and go to their clubs. Those DSs were so good about wearing the tuxedos- DH had had a talk with them at the beginnig of the night about how tonight was special for Mommy, and they were all dressing up for me, and do you know, they were all perfect gentlemen all night, no complaints, not even once, not even a peep.:love: By the way, we brought our own tuxedos, which I had gotten on Ebay- the DSs were $25 each- what a GREAT deal, and we bought DH one for $250 I think, it was Ralph Lauren Wool, very, very nice. They were all brand new, I should add. It would have been about $100 to rent it on the ship, so we figured this would be a better investment.

Back at the cabin, we had a surprise waiting for us- the REAS strikes again!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0097.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0101.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0105.jpg

Cont'd in next post-

podsnel

12-07-2008, 11:38 AM

Do you ever get the giggles...over nothing? Happens to us all the time. Happens to DS9 more than most-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0110.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0111.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0112.jpg

Guess tuxedos tickle when you take them off!:rotfl2:

The boys were off to see what was up in their clubs, and DH & I went to Diversions where I think Ron Pearson was performing. He was really funny, and we had a great time. I think this was the Golden Mickeys after Party-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0113.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0114.jpg

It was a truly great night. But I do have a few regrets- like , I wish we would have made it to the Golden Mickeys show, because I bet it would have been spectacular. And was the Dessert buffet tonight? I'm actually not sure when that was, because we never made it to it. Good thing we rebooked! There are just sooooooooo many things going on on the ship, it is impossible to get to everything. We went to bed early that Monday night, because in the morning we had to be up really early to get on the first tender off the ship- we had booked our own excursion with Captain Jon Michael- we were going on the Eco Outrage tour in Grand Cayman, and we needed LOTS of energy for that day!! See you soon!

podsnel

12-07-2008, 01:20 PM

Thanks for the update, Ellen! I never saw the wine service at sessions, either! Was it called something special? Your description of the amenities to Kara was so good. I think we are doing NCL for our Hawaiin cruise in 2010, but I keep second guessing - I'm afraid I will wish I was on DCL!

No! It wasn't anything special, I just ordered a glass of sauvignon Blanc- and then she brought out that tray. Really, really awesome.

Thanks for the :thumbsup2 on my answer to Kara, I was hoping I didn't forget anything. Isn't she in WDW this weekend AGAIN? She really makes me want to move to Florida, lizards and spiders and all, just to be able to go to visit WDW so much!

Hawaii is SPECTACULAR!!!! We went for our honeymoon, and I'm really hoping we'll be able to trade in when the new DVC resort is built there- it opens just in time for our 25th anniversary. My cousins went on that cruise a few years ago and had a blast- you will, too, just spend some time in the specialty restaurants and I bet it will be wonderful. It's not like they're going to be beating you everyday- you're going to be in paradise, for crying out loud!!:rotfl:

DMMarla07860

12-07-2008, 03:27 PM

great trip report, looks like you all had a blast

and off topic but, I see you are from scotch plains, my friends lives around there

podsnel

12-07-2008, 03:46 PM

great trip report, looks like you all had a blast

and off topic but, I see you are from scotch plains, my friends lives around there

Thanks- I wonder if I know your friends? I am very envious of the cruise you're going to take- that is going to be fabulous!! Thanks for reading and saying hello!

mindelmouse

12-07-2008, 04:28 PM

stand for? I meant to ask you before...every time I read your trip report I long to be back on the ship. We had completely different trips, but very much the same in many respects.

TigerKat

12-07-2008, 04:51 PM

Oh WOW Ellen, you looked gorgeous and your guys were so handsome. What a truly magical night that must have been.:cloud9:

podsnel

12-07-2008, 05:02 PM

On Tuesday morning we knew we needed to get up early because we needed to meet up with our boat captain at 8:30. I wanted to make sure we were on the first tender, because I was afraid if we missed that one, we might get shut-out because of Disney excursions getting priority over us. The night before, we had ordered coffee and fruit loops and bagels to be delivered to the cabin early at 7, so we were downstairs in the theatre by 7:30. There was hardly anyone there! Maybe because the day looked like this-

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BLECH! The sea was angry that day, my friends, like an old man sending back soup in a diner (pardon the obscure Seinfeld reference) and it was a litttle challenging getting into the tender. I remember thinking how is anyone with anykind of mobility problem at all going to get into this baby barge?!:scared1: Anyway, that was the worst of it, and we headed into port.

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We walked around a bit before it was time to meet up with Jon Michael, our Captain on the Eco Outrage tour.

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I had booked this particular excursion for several reasons. #1 was we wanted to go out to Stingray City, but we did not want to be stuck there all day in case any of us were freaked out by the sting rays (good thinkin, Mom!) and this tour also mentioned tubing, which I knew my kids would love. We had the boat to ourselves for the whole day, to go wherever we wanted to go. It was perfect. Except for the rain. But we were going to get wet anyway, right? So we get on the boat, and our first stop is going to be Stingray City. It's a bit of a ride on the boat to get there, and we were going about 25 mph- the rain was coming down, and my kids were like, "Is that HAIL??? How fast are we going, anyway?" :rotfl2: Really- here we are, in tropical paradise, getting pelted by rain- it just was NOT what anyone would ever plan on or picture for their day in Grand Cayman. So we were all laughing like monkeys- I mean, it was truly so unpleasant and uncomfortable, it was ridiculous!!! The good thing was that JM got us out to StingRay City by 9 am- and there were maybe 2 other boats out there. So we had it (almost) to ourselves. And the rain had stopped pelting us, so that could only be good!

Here, fishy fishy fishy! JM shows us one of his friends-

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Well, DS9 almost immediately started to freak out- these rays were all over us, and he was not too happy about it, so DH put him back on the boat where he waited for us to have our fun. I am soooooooooooooo glad we booked this boat! And I am soooo surprised I didn't freak out, too!

That's a big 'un!

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DS11 was into it- he thought they were so cool!

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Myself, DH & DS11

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How I took this photo, I'll never know! Love my new underwater camera!!

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After about 20 minutes of feeding the stingrays, we all got back on the boat to head to our next adventure, snorkeling on a coral reef. As it turned out, we were very lucky to have been on Grand Cayman this day- JM told us that StingRay City had been closed the whole last week becuase the water was too rough, and our day was the first tiny bit of blue sky they had seen there in about 2 weeks!

We went out to the coral reef, you could see it from the stingrays, it was where the water seemed to be breaking. I guess the water was about 25 feet deep there, and now it was DS11's turn to freak out. He just couldn't get comfortable with the idea of there being so much water between him and the floor of the sea. So, he went right back on the boat. DS9 really liked this part- we all did. Lots of fishies, pretty coral, big waves sending you a mile away from the boat everytime you looked down...it was one HECK of a workout, let me tell ya! Getting back to that boat, swimming into the current was a bit of a challenge!

JM swam to the bottom and picked up a conch, showing us how to call our friends with it.

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We didn't stay here for very long because it was just too rough. Then it began to REALLY rain. JM asked us where we wanted to go for lunch, Rum Point or Kaibo, and we said wherever was the driest- so he took us to Kaibo Beach Club. Where I ordered butternut squash soup and bought a tshirt for warmth. Very tropical!:rotfl: Actually, we had a great lunch, I had freshly caught Wahoo and there was another table next to us doing a similar tour, they were nice to chat with. Kaibo Beach in the rain-

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Lunch could not have been timed better, because when it was over, the sun started to break through and we were able to get the boys out for some tubing- which they LOVED!! But you'll have to wait until the next post, because it's dinner time here in freezing frigid NJ...

anewmac

12-07-2008, 05:29 PM

OK just got all caught up on your trippie.. cant wait to read more... Seeing your pics of AKL really makes me want to book this for our next pre cruise stay.. wonder how I can work that out LOL.

podsnel

12-07-2008, 05:43 PM

stand for? I meant to ask you before...every time I read your trip report I long to be back on the ship. We had completely different trips, but very much the same in many respects.

REAS is Romantic Escape at Sea. It includes 2 DCL spa robes, a DCL ice bucket, a bottle of champagne, dinner for 2 at Palo with a bottle of wine from the Premium Wine list, unlimited access to the glorious rainforest room, a full room service breakfast with mimosas from Lumiere's one morning and best of all, 105 day out booking of Palo and spa and excursions. And an 8x10 from Shutters. And the beautiful rose petal turndown service. Donna & Carl had it too (boyspapa) and we agreed it was very worth it. I would do it again, I think. Of course, DH thinks all this is just part of the Disney Magic, so I'd HATE for him to be disappointed on our next cruise if it didn't happen! See what a good wife I am...I'm always thinking of him first- :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: What was funny was Carl would keep bringing up how much they were enjoying the REAS whenever we were together, and it would all go right over my Dh's head, because he thought we were talking "DIS" so he would tune it all out, I think. :lmao: :lmao: Poor Pods...so cluelessly pampered.:rotfl:

alan_renfroe

12-07-2008, 06:07 PM

podsnel

12-07-2008, 06:36 PM

Oh WOW Ellen, you looked gorgeous and your guys were so handsome. What a truly magical night that must have been.:cloud9:

Hi Kathy!! It WAS magical.:lovestruc As you know, it's good to be the Queen of the house, but it's even better when everyone dresses their parts!

OK just got all caught up on your trippie.. cant wait to read more... Seeing your pics of AKL really makes me want to book this for our next pre cruise stay.. wonder how I can work that out LOL.

WOW! That's a lot of reading!! Your boys would love AKL, I bet- hope you can work it out! And thanks for coming over to my TR!

And if anyone hasn't read Drea's TR- get over there!!! She's aLOT of fun!!:thumbsup2

podsnel

12-07-2008, 07:52 PM

And a little bit today, thank goodness! As I said, after lunch, we were off to do some tubing. DS11 went first-

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He was LOVIN it! JM, a father of 3 (older kids than ours) was a great captain. He gave the boys hand signals to use if they wanted to slow down, or speed up or stop- and he was very understanding and encouraging all day long with them, including when they each had their moments of fear. You could tell he was a good dad.:goodvibes Nice guy, glad we got to spend the day with him. Anyway, DS11 had a mellow ride for this first one-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/th_2008_110406summer0020.jpg (http://s246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/?action=view&current=2008_110406summer0020.flv)

DH & DS9 had fun watching. Mostly DS9 couldn't wait to get out there himself, I think!

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So then, it was his turn. All I can say about his rides is- that kid is an ANIMAL!!!:rotfl:

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DS9 kept telling JM "faster! Faster!" with all the hand signals, so he got an awesome ride!

Then Jon Michael brought us to a beach known for amazing sea stars (star fish). He threw down the anchor, and we all went into the 3" water while he dove and brought the sea stars to us. They were beautiful and we were all impressed-
this is our boat for the day, the Outrage

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Here we are, a happy bunch-

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JM said the red ones are common, but it had been a long time since he had seen a yellow star-

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More soon...

NikkiLovesWDW!

12-07-2008, 08:21 PM

Sounds like an awesome day so far! LOVE the American flag bathing suit on DS!

podsnel

12-07-2008, 08:25 PM

Sounds like an awesome day so far! LOVE the American flag bathing suit on DS!

Yea- well, it WAS election day!!! And I can't think of any other way I'd like to spend it...:goodvibes :thumbsup2

podsnel

12-07-2008, 08:36 PM

Excellent update, Ellen! I don't know if I would be more like DS11 or DS9 with those sting rays!! I THINK I would really enjoy it....but I KNOW my DD9 would freak. Sorry it rained on you guys, but it sounds like after-lunch is going to get better.

Great underwater pics, too. I love that underwater camera. :thumbsup2

I totally understand, alan- prior to this, the thought of the whole experience just freaked me right out- I've never been a big sting-ray fan. But, I did used to have a great passion for sea life- before kids I used to volunteer at the NY Aquarium as a Docent and with the Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine, NJ, rescueing different sea mammals and turtles. So, I sucked it up, and honestly, after a few squeemish squeels, it was really kinda cool!:thumbsup2 Honestly, on my honeymoon 22 1/2 years ago :scared1: I wouldn't even TOUCH a manta ray that was swimming by a light at night while I was standing on a rock OUT of the water- and now I really regret that. Don't want to ever make the same mistake twice- savvy?;)

anewmac

12-07-2008, 10:25 PM

alan_renfroe

12-08-2008, 01:11 AM

I totally understand, alan- prior to this, the thought of the whole experience just freaked me right out- I've never been a big sting-ray fan. But, I did used to have a great passion for sea life- before kids I used to volunteer at the NY Aquarium as a Docent and with the Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine, NJ, rescueing different sea mammals and turtles. So, I sucked it up, and honestly, after a few squeemish squeels, it was really kinda cool!:thumbsup2 Honestly, on my honeymoon 22 1/2 years ago :scared1: I wouldn't even TOUCH a manta ray that was swimming by a light at night while I was standing on a rock OUT of the water- and now I really regret that. Don't want to ever make the same mistake twice- savvy?;)

I hear ya! You've gotta take those moments in life as they come, right? Those experiences of swimming with the Manta Rays is something you will never, ever forget.....and that means a lot. I would have done the same thing!

alan_renfroe

12-08-2008, 01:14 AM

AWESOME new installment! Watching the videos of those boys tubing brought back great memories of our 4th of July weekend this past summer! Our DS11 tried tubing for the first time on Lake Weiss and LOVED it! He was like your DS9 - he kept wanting to go faster and faster!!! Of course, I was in the boat and freaking out about how fast he was wanting to go!

I'm SOOO glad to weather allowed you guys to have a great and memorable afternoon! Sounds like JM was a great choice and money well spent.

Alan

podsnel

12-08-2008, 09:44 AM

OMG that looks like an amazing time the boys and you all had with the boat ride. How fun!!!

(btw now im hooked on your girls only trip report LOL... not getting any houseword done but that can always wait LOL)

Oh and thanks for the acknowledgement... I try an entertain LOL.

Thanks! We're going back for round 2 in May- 4 nights this time!:woohoo:

AWESOME new installment! Watching the videos of those boys tubing brought back great memories of our 4th of July weekend this past summer! Our DS11 tried tubing for the first time on Lake Weiss and LOVED it! He was like your DS9 - he kept wanting to go faster and faster!!! Of course, I was in the boat and freaking out about how fast he was wanting to go!

I'm SOOO glad to weather allowed you guys to have a great and memorable afternoon! Sounds like JM was a great choice and money well spent.

Alan

Tubing is a ton of fun- we didn't do it this time, just let the boys have fun. That's funny about your son- he sounds like mine!:goodvibes And JM was a great choice- would love to do that whole day again, ESPECIALLY if we could arrange for better weather!

podsnel

12-08-2008, 10:10 AM

After chatting with a nice man JM knew on the beach (who owned one of the houses on the beach and was from Maryland- rough life, huh!) we were back in the boat for more tubing. Sadly, our day was coming to an end in GC-

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Jon Michael drove us back to the port, and we said goodbye to our new friend. Hope we get to see him next time we're in Grand Cayman- I'd love to snorkel in the water on a calmer day. We took a few snapshots and then got in line for the next tender-

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I need to upload more photos to photobucket before my next post, so see ya real soon!

nikkistevej

12-08-2008, 10:12 AM

Nice pics!!! I'm really enjoying your trip report.:goodvibes

podsnel

12-08-2008, 01:05 PM

Nice pics!!! I'm really enjoying your trip report.:goodvibes

Thank-you!:goodvibes I'm really enjoying writing it!

Camster0307

12-08-2008, 01:19 PM

Holy cow! How did I miss so many new installments? I've got some catching up to do.....................

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This picture cracked me up - the look on his face: "just shoot me now!"

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Ooh-la-la Ellen - YOU LOOK GORGEOUS!!!! Work that ponytail, girlfriend!:woohoo:

The food porn from dinner looked amazing and all of your boys looked so handsome.

So funny hubby didn't realize you had arranged the REAS treatment. Men can be so dense some times - what they don't know won't hurt them!:thumbsup2

dvc4life

12-08-2008, 01:26 PM

Looks like you had a blast in Grand Cayman. We didn't get to go because of the bad weather. Way to windy to go and we were on the week before you. Your excursion looked like such fun but I couldn't do the sting ray's. No way. I would just have to watch.

And yes, your guys looked so handsome. It is just the opposite in our family. My DH, me and 2 DD's. Talk about your PMS!!!

Can't wait for your next installment.

dvc4life

12-08-2008, 01:28 PM

Oh,yes, and you looked beautiful too! I loved your dress.

podsnel

12-08-2008, 01:56 PM

When we got back onboard the Magic, I had one thing and one thing only in my head- RAINFOREST!!!! I just really wanted to go warm up on one of those tile lounge chairs...aaaaahhhhhhh.... So that's exactly what I did. The kids ran off to their clubs in a mad dash, and for the life of me, I can't remember what DH did- maybe the gym? Anyway, I tried out the different steam rooms and sauna, checked out the showers, and when a lounge chair opened up, it was mine, baby!:thumbsup2 So there are 4 of us, all women, relaxing in these glorious chairs, and the woman to my left is quietly sipping champagne. The woman on my right starts layin' into her like a lunatic, "You can't have champagne in here! That glass is not allowed!! That glass is going to break, and then what? Glass in all the mosaics, they'll never get it out, it will ruin the rainforest forever, get rid of that glass!! Get rid of that glass!!!" And on and on... she was somekind of paranoid-nerd freak!! And the whole time, the woman with the champagne is just layin there, sippin away, saying, "My champagne is fine. I will not drop it." :rotfl: So then the budinsky woman from h*** starts in with, "well, if you don't drop it, that's ok....but just make sure you don't drop it, because if you don't drop it, well then, I guess that's ok....so be careful and don't drop that champagne". :scared1: Are you kidding me? Who is this woman....the RR police? Dude...you are totally ruining the whole thing. It's the freakin Rainforest! Shut-up and take your pile of 500 magazines and newspapers and get out!!! Actually, she did walk out right then- if she hadn't, I was about to go get my own glass of fine champagne to keep the other girl company. Yeesh. Relax already, would ya? :cloud9:

So, once the great champagne fiasco was over, it was back to the business of relaxing and relaxing....aaahhhhh...love the rainforest. I had a shower in the lockerroom, then went back to the cabin and got ready for the evening- I wanted to make it to a show, so I thought tonight would be a good time to start, with Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story. I went into the WD Theatre and who did I sit with? Jenny2, of course!! I had just enough time to order a DoD with her before the show began....

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Wow. I was completely blown away. This show was tremendous!! Now I was REALLY regretting all the previous nights' shows I had missed.:sad2: After this, though, I did not miss another!:thumbsup2 Anyway, with tears in my eyes still (I am such a sap, and Cinderella is my favorite...) I said good-bye to Jenny2 and her DD, and went back to the cabin to tell DH I'd meet him later at Parrot Cay, I wanted to go look in the shops. DS9 did not have dinner with us this night, he asked if he could eat with his club and play instead. Sure! So it was just the three of us. Back in a bit with the food porn-

shasess

12-08-2008, 02:41 PM

Your TR is keeping me from getting any real work done but I'm loving all your updates so keep em' coming! :goodvibes I keep going back and forth about getting the Romantic Escape for our cruise in May. DH and I are going on a solo trip celebrating our first anniversary! It sure sounds like it's worth the extra money but I might have to tell DH that it comes with the price of the cruise like you did :rolleyes1 (see what you started :goodvibes )

podsnel

12-08-2008, 04:03 PM

So we were ready for another evening of fine dining. I ordered the Crab martinique-

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I had to order it, after all, I'd been looking at pictures of it on the DIS for like a year now!:rotfl: It definitely tastes like it looks- does that make sense? It's all creamy and crabby- yum! DS11 ordered Tropical Style fruit salad, which he really enjoyed- he's a good eater, that kid!

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DH had seared tuna-

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There was also banana bread on the table which DH wouldn't touch (he FREAKS over banana anything, totally hates it!:crazy2:) but both DS11 & I enjoyed. For dinner DS11 had the Mixed Grill, I think-

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He's so funny, licking his chops!:rotfl: DH had the Island Ribeye, he liked it alot.

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And I got Pan-seared Grouper with Shrimp Lemon Butter-

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We also ordered 2 separate bottles of wine, because our dinners were so opposite of each other- I think I got Evolution 9 (so they gave us some $$ back) and Pods had Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, I think. They held onto our leftovers for the next night.

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DS11 and Ronzil, right before DS11 took off for Ocean Quest-

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Then came the Baked Alaska parade, but my battery died, so I have no pictures.:sad1: For dessert I had creme brulee cheesecake and DH had an Ice cream sundae. Pretty much for dessert every night I would end up ordering whatever Mindy at the next table was having because it looked so good!:rotfl: Actually, I did that with a lot of courses- good thing I liked what she was eating!! We got a slice of Baked Alaska and brought it back to the room- miraculously it survived the hour or so between when we got it and when DS11 ate it that night!

At the room we had a Sting Ray-

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Although, maybe on second look, it's a turtle-

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At Rockin Bar D, we hooked up with Mindy and her Dad from the table-next-door. There was a new comedian/magician, I can't remember his name, (was it Danny Buckler, maybe?) but he was FABULOUS!!! Totally hysterical! And great magic tricks!

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After that, it was Spring Break!! They were handing out jello shots!!:rotfl:

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Everyone was getting into doing the Limbo, etc- and we were hitting the wall. Waking up extra early does have its drawbacks. Oh well. DS9 was just finishing up his rehearsal for Friendship Rocks in Studio Sea (he's in the back on the left, wearing a blue shirt).

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After he was done, we got DS11, too, and all went back to the cabin. Before hitting the bed like a ton of bricks, DS11 enjoyed his Baked Alaska

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0216.jpg

I still can't believe it didn't melt in that cold box!!

Tomorrow- Hola! We're swimmin' with the Dolphins in Mexico!!:yay:

podsnel

12-08-2008, 04:11 PM

Holy cow! How did I miss so many new installments? I've got some catching up to do.....................

The food porn from dinner looked amazing and all of your boys looked so handsome.

So funny hubby didn't realize you had arranged the REAS treatment. Men can be so dense some times - what they don't know won't hurt them!:thumbsup2

Yes- where were you? I missed you terribly!!!:hug:

Looks like you had a blast in Grand Cayman. We didn't get to go because of the bad weather. Way to windy to go and we were on the week before you. Your excursion looked like such fun but I couldn't do the sting ray's. No way. I would just have to watch.

And yes, your guys looked so handsome. It is just the opposite in our family. My DH, me and 2 DD's. Talk about your PMS!!!

Can't wait for your next installment.

It seems like that's been happening on that island alot, lately, huh? Hopefully the weather is improving now down there- bad weather makes it hard for the nice tour guides like JM to make any $$. And thanks for complimenting my boys (and me in your other post!:goodvibes ). You're right- that IS a lot of PMS at your house...if that were my house, my DH would probably move out half the month!!:rotfl2:

Your TR is keeping me from getting any real work done but I'm loving all your updates so keep em' coming! :goodvibes I keep going back and forth about getting the Romantic Escape for our cruise in May. DH and I are going on a solo trip celebrating our first anniversary! It sure sounds like it's worth the extra money but I might have to tell DH that it comes with the price of the cruise like you did :rolleyes1 (see what you started :goodvibes )

That's wierd...my TR is keeping ME from getting any real work done, too!!:lmao: But reliving our vacation is MUCH more fun than folding laundry, so we're all in luck!! I say go ahead and book the REAS...you only have ONE 1st anniversary!!!:love:

anewmac

12-08-2008, 10:15 PM

Oh they have friends ship at sea now... not disney univerSEAty lol this will be fun to see the difference.

Todays food porn looks great!

I too am a big Cinderella freak... I knew I liked ya LOL

alan_renfroe

12-09-2008, 02:44 AM

Wow! Those food pictures were AWESOME! That seared Ahi Tuna was right up my alley! Nice pics!

Alan

nzdisneymom

12-09-2008, 09:10 AM

Kind of- it was an activity at HHIR last summer, and I signed up the 4 of us but when it came time to make the shirts, the boys wouldn't get out of the pool because there were some games going on. So DH came with me, and did alot of the rubberbanding because my hands were hurting from kayaking (I have an inflammatory arthritis), and then he left and the CMs were making them with me! Then I actually went back and made another one for DS14, but by then I was a pro!;)

We're going to Hilton Head in the spring - I hope they still do this activity because I love those shirts and would love to make them for / with my kids.

I am really enjoying your report, especially reading about new-to-me things that I've not experienced or read about. We're sailing soon and this is just what I need to be even more ready (BTW, I saw the wrist-watches on your boys and that made me remember that I need to get one for my guys so they'll know what time it is on-board when they are off on their own.)

MAGICFOR2

12-09-2008, 09:44 AM

No! It wasn't anything special, I just ordered a glass of sauvignon Blanc- and then she brought out that tray. Really, really awesome.

Thanks for the :thumbsup2 on my answer to Kara, I was hoping I didn't forget anything. Isn't she in WDW this weekend AGAIN? She really makes me want to move to Florida, lizards and spiders and all, just to be able to go to visit WDW so much!

Hawaii is SPECTACULAR!!!! We went for our honeymoon, and I'm really hoping we'll be able to trade in when the new DVC resort is built there- it opens just in time for our 25th anniversary. My cousins went on that cruise a few years ago and had a blast- you will, too, just spend some time in the specialty restaurants and I bet it will be wonderful. It's not like they're going to be beating you everyday- you're going to be in paradise, for crying out loud!!:rotfl:

I'll have to write that down for next time - our asst server, Alex, was a wine steward or whatever the name is - he kept recommending a SB, but I don't think I had one - I'm usually a red wine drinker.

No, Kara wasn't in WDW this past weekend, I think it's this one - she goes so often it's hard to keep up! And I'm jealous!;)

Okay, I'll try not to be afraid of the other boat! :lmao:

I'm finally all caught up on your TR! You all looked Fab for formal night! Your boys clean up real nice! :thumbsup2 I was thinking your DH is so photogenic that he looks like a game show host! :rotfl2:

Your day in GC looked fantastic in spite of the rain! I'm glad you made it a good day! It really is all about attitude! I loved the Cindy show, too - and I cried. They do such a great job with those shows!

Looking forward to your next update!

Disgirl83

12-09-2008, 07:31 PM

I've been reading your posts now religiously and love them! You are soo good at writing this. My DH and I will be on the western cruise in May and your post have definitely convinced me to reserve the rasual!!! I'm also considering Palo, but haven't decided on brunch or dinner. Oh the choices!

Keep up the great writing!

Camster0307

12-10-2008, 07:33 AM

Ellen - Your pictures are AWESOME! Even though the weather wasn't the best, your day at GC still looked beautiful!

That crab appetizer -- http://bestsmileys.com/drooling/3.gif (I love me some cheesy crab!)

So great that the boys really enjoyed the clubs. I've always wondered if Lauren would since she would be by herself.

One question -- did you and Pods sample any of the jello shots?

podsnel

12-10-2008, 08:50 AM

Wow! Those food pictures were AWESOME! That seared Ahi Tuna was right up my alley! Nice pics!

Alan

Thanks, Alan!! The tuna was very good!

We're going to Hilton Head in the spring - I hope they still do this activity because I love those shirts and would love to make them for / with my kids.

I am really enjoying your report, especially reading about new-to-me things that I've not experienced or read about. We're sailing soon and this is just what I need to be even more ready (BTW, I saw the wrist-watches on your boys and that made me remember that I need to get one for my guys so they'll know what time it is on-board when they are off on their own.)

Ooooohhh...I LOVE HHI! I'm betting they will still have that Mickey tiedye activity, I think they have had it for a while, and it was VERY popular- I forget, have you been there before? Don't forget to say hi to Dottie in the mercantile- she's great!

I got the boys the wristwatches right before the cruise, and it helped them alot, just be sure to get ones that are ok in the water.:thumbsup2

I'll have to write that down for next time - our asst server, Alex, was a wine steward or whatever the name is - he kept recommending a SB, but I don't think I had one - I'm usually a red wine drinker.

No, Kara wasn't in WDW this past weekend, I think it's this one - she goes so often it's hard to keep up! And I'm jealous!;)

Okay, I'll try not to be afraid of the other boat! :lmao:

I'm finally all caught up on your TR! You all looked Fab for formal night! Your boys clean up real nice! :thumbsup2 I was thinking your DH is so photogenic that he looks like a game show host! :rotfl2:
Your day in GC looked fantastic in spite of the rain! I'm glad you made it a good day! It really is all about attitude! I loved the Cindy show, too - and I cried. They do such a great job with those shows!

Looking forward to your next update!

OMG!!!:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: That line is just soooo funny! Now you know why I made sure he was wearing a tuxedo on formal night and we bought it so I can be sure to see him in it whenever the opportunity arises- :love: . Maybe this weekend I'll have him put it on and we'll all play Jeopardy!:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

And that wine service is only in Sessions- but, the KCSB is available in the dining rooms, too. Just not with the fun stuff. I'd hate for you to order a glass of wine at dinner and be disappointed when they didn't bring out the cherries and cheese!!

I've been reading your posts now religiously and love them! You are soo good at writing this. My DH and I will be on the western cruise in May and your post have definitely convinced me to reserve the rasual!!! I'm also considering Palo, but haven't decided on brunch or dinner. Oh the choices!

Keep up the great writing!

WOW- thanks for all the kind words- you have made my day!! I will do my best to keep entertaining you...:goodvibes

And DEFINITELY book that Rasul- you'll both come out with BIG smiles on your faces!!:love: :hug: :woohoo: :teeth: :teeth:

Ellen - Your pictures are AWESOME! Even though the weather wasn't the best, your day at GC still looked beautiful!

That crab appetizer -- http://bestsmileys.com/drooling/3.gif (I love me some cheesy crab!)

So great that the boys really enjoyed the clubs. I've always wondered if Lauren would since she would be by herself.

One question -- did you and Pods sample any of the jello shots?

Do you REALLY need to ask this question??? At one point in my life, I was known as the queen of the jello shots, I made and did soooooo many!! Never would miss one!:laughing:

Camster0307

12-10-2008, 11:17 AM

Do you REALLY need to ask this question??? At one point in my life, I was known as the queen of the jello shots, I made and did soooooo many!! Never would miss one!:laughing:

Ask a stupid question........................:rolleyes: !:lmao:
(just another reason to like you!)

podsnel

12-10-2008, 11:29 AM

Oh they have friends ship at sea now... not disney univerSEAty lol this will be fun to see the difference.

Todays food porn looks great!

I too am a big Cinderella freak... I knew I liked ya LOL

Oops! I missed you! Yes, it's the Friendship- I know because they gave him the tshirt later, not because we saw the show...:sad2: ....but that's for another day!

Cindy is a ROCKSTAR!!!!!!!:laughing:

TigerKat

12-10-2008, 01:30 PM

podsnel

12-10-2008, 04:41 PM

I've been under the weather the past few days and catching up on your TR was the way to spend my time!!!! You and your family surely have the best darn vacations I've ever seen. Your boys are very lucky.:hug:

Hey Kathy! I hope you're feeling better!:hug: I'm glad I was able to help you pass the time...and thanks, we do try to make the most of our time away!

vanessa3198

12-10-2008, 11:09 PM

DH had seared tuna-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0200.jpg

OOOOOOH!! One of my favorites!!
My cruise needs to get here... QUICKLY!

podsnel

12-11-2008, 09:38 AM

Woke up this morning to the pre-coffee delivery phone ring- love to have that coffee delivered first thing in the morning- do you think I could arrange for that once we get home? We could see Mexico in the distance, and it looked like it would be a spectacularly GORGEOUS day- which it was!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0219.jpg

Our plans were to go with Boyspapa's family and do the Royal Dolphin Swim at Chankanaab. DH & I had done a dolphin swim once before, when we were in the Bahamas, at the Blue Lagoon. So we were very excited for our kids to have this incredible experience and learn about these intelligent, amazing mammals. We would be docking at about 9:45 in Cozumel, so that left a little time in the morning for me to go up to the fitness center and work-out. I was riding the bike as we pulled closer to the port, and I really could not get over the beauty of Cozumel's water! It is such a deep azure, totally different from what i'm used to seeing in the Caribbean. Really vibrant! Anyway, I just would like to point out again that if I had access to that gym on the Magic at home, I would be in much, much better shape than I am at home working out at the Y! Watching a huge choice of Disney entertainment while the beautiful sea is all around you is a one of a kind experience not to be missed.:thumbsup2

We hooked up with Carl & Donna and the boys and headed out into port at about 10:30 or 11, I think.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0221.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0222.jpg

My kids were very curious about what Mexico would be like- I told them Mexico has a very...ummm...aggressive marketing policy. They're like, what do you mean? In 2 minutes of being in that port, DS11 said, "OH...I GET IT!!" Everyone selling everything and running after you with it was a big surprise, even DH who had never been to Mexico was stunned. It was pretty funny.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0224.jpg

So we walk through the mall ignoring everyone, and make our way to the taxis.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0225.jpg

Because Boyspapa and I had booked this together, we got got a great deal- included in our swim was roundtrip transportation and admission to Chankanaab, as well as we got a 5% discount off of all our swims. (FYI- DCL did not offer this excursion, they had a dolphin encounter here, or a swim at Dolphinaris, but it didn't include the foot push and was more $$ than the Royal Swim booked on our own). I am so glad we chose chankanaab, the park was really pretty and it offered a lot more than just a swim with the dolphins. We were approached by a guide who offered us a tour of their ruins and gardens, and we decided to do this because we thought it might be a good idea to learn a little bit about this country's culture while we were here. The tour was free, we just tipped him afterwards.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0229.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0230.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0234.jpg

We were taken into a hut and a Mexican woman made tortillas and gave one to each of us with or without salsa- the adults loved them, I think the kids were not as excited!:rotfl:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0231.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0238.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0243.jpg

An iguana poses for a pic-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0244.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0247.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0248.jpg

We kept on thinking, these kids are going to start saying they're bored any second now, but ya know what? They never did! They really listened to everything this guide said! The ruins at Chankanaab are not actual ruins, they are replicas of different ruins from around the Yucatan peninsula. The guide was very insightful, and we all learned something by taking this little tour. I was very proud of all the boys for taking an interest and learning about this ancient culture.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0236.jpg

Next...time for our Royal Swim!:yay:

alan_renfroe

12-11-2008, 10:15 AM

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0247.jpg

Oh my gosh! This is a perfect picture of paradise!!! Wow...that is breathtaking.

mismal

12-11-2008, 11:43 PM

anewmac

12-12-2008, 12:39 AM

WOW... Those pics are breath taking.

Really think im going to have to get to the gym next time. Sounds like such a cool way to work out. :)

Kay1

12-12-2008, 04:08 PM

I just can't wait for more pictures. You're doing such a beautiful job with this report. Thank you so much for sharing all this. :thumbsup2

Camster0307

12-12-2008, 04:31 PM

Oh my gosh! This is a perfect picture of paradise!!! Wow...that is breathtaking.

What he said!

Simply gorgeous, dahling!

TigerKat

12-12-2008, 05:25 PM

What he said!

Simply gorgeous, dahling!

What she said!

Incredible, my dear!:laughing:

MAGICFOR2

12-13-2008, 01:20 AM

Wow~ Beautiful pics! Thanks for sharing! Your tour looks really interesting! That is something we missed out on in PV for sure:thumbsup2

podsnel

12-14-2008, 01:15 PM

thanks for the spa pics...maybe i will change my spa appointment to this vs a couple massge? Looks awesome...your photos make me feel like we are there! One month, 14 days but who is counting?
thanks again for the post!:cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

The rasul is kind of a do-it-yourself massage, if you know what I mean...;) We did massages on Thursday, too.

WOW... Those pics are breath taking.

Really think im going to have to get to the gym next time. Sounds like such a cool way to work out. :)

It is an AMAZING way to work out!!

I just can't wait for more pictures. You're doing such a beautiful job with this report. Thank you so much for sharing all this. :thumbsup2

Thanks! What a nice compliment!:blush:

Oh my gosh! This is a perfect picture of paradise!!! Wow...that is breathtaking.

What he said!

Simply gorgeous, dahling!

What she said!

Incredible, my dear!:laughing:

Wow~ Beautiful pics! Thanks for sharing! Your tour looks really interesting! That is something we missed out on in PV for sure:thumbsup2

I think everyone I saw at Chankanaab was impressed with the beauty of it. It truly was a tropical paradise.

I'll be back soon with our dolphin swim- I've been sick, so too tired to be any good at writing about it-

E

Camster0307

12-14-2008, 06:25 PM

I'll be back soon with our dolphin swim- I've been sick, so too tired to be any good at writing about it-

E

Ellen - Well that stinks being sick this time of year!:sad1: I hope you feel better soon!:hug:

TigerKat

12-14-2008, 06:51 PM

Hope you're feeling better soon my friend.:hug:

wuv tigger

12-14-2008, 06:55 PM

Have a healthy holiday!

MAGICFOR2

12-15-2008, 03:21 AM

Feel Better!:hug:

podsnel

12-16-2008, 09:44 AM

Hi! Thanks for all the get well wishes- I'm feeling much better today!:goodvibes Nothing like sleeping for nearly 24 hours to improve your health, I guess-

Anyway, I believe it was time to talk about the dolphin swim....

So, Boyspapa et al was signed up with us to do the Royal Dolphin Swim- we were brought to a room to watch a short video, then divided into groups (we were together with another couple). They took us over to the platform, we put on vests, and got in the water which was nice and warm- thank God!! I was dreading being in cold water for this like we were in the Bahamas years ago. The Royal Swim is the best experience they offer at Chankanaab, it includes a dance, kisses, a double fin ride and the foot push, along with just hanging in the water with the dolphins. We were standing on a platform, and when we would have to go out a little for a kiss or whatever, DH was helping our boys get out far enough by grabbing their vests and holding them out to the dolphins.

Hi there! (One of Boyspapa's DGS's is smiling with a dolphin in the backround)

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0258.jpg

DS9

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0259.jpg

I have no problem with DH kissing another girl, as long as she has fins!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0261.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0262.jpg

Another of Carl's DGS's-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0273.jpg

DS9 is going for a ride-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0264.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0265.jpg

Donna & I make some new friends-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0266.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0268.jpg

Hitching a ride-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0269.jpg

DH gets a foot push (in the Bahamas, he had a hard time getting up out of the water- this time was much better for him-)

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0274.jpg

DS11 gets some kisses and a dance-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0276.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0277.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0278.jpg

And then it's time for DH11 to fly-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0282.jpg

Followed by me and then DS9-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0283.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0286.jpg

We were all out of the water more than what these photos show, with DS9 looking like he was running on top of the water! It was hard for him to get started, and they were nice enough to send a trainer out there to help him get on the dolphins- they did not, however, do this for Boyspapa's younger Grandson, so he didn't really get to experience this. The trainer seemed to be more patient with my family than Carl's , which I really don't get. They should have sent a helper in the water for their youngest one, too.:confused3Anyway, we all did various amounts of things with the dolphins even though we all tried everything, but I think everyone would agree it was an amazing experience. I know DS9 STILL hasn't stopped talking about it, and I believe it gave both of my boys a lifelong love and respect for these mammals, which means alot to me. Prior to having kids, I was obsessed with dolphins- I used to volunteer at the NY Aquarium as a Docent and talk to people about the Beluga whales there, and I used to volunteer with the Marine Mammal Stranding center here in NJ. They are called to rescue any stranded sea mammals on any NJ coastline, including dolphins, whales and seal lions, and they also help out sea turtles. Anyway, it has always been important to me that my kids have an appreciation for the magnificence of these animals, and this experience, making a HUGE impression on them, succeeded in doing that. :goodvibes When we were done with our swim, they herded us all in a room to watch ourselves on the video that was made- which of course, we all bought along with all the photos they took. No way could I leave them there!!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0287.jpg

Next- hangin in Mexico!

nikkistevej

12-16-2008, 09:55 AM

Love the dolphin pics!!! We are doing a Dolphin Excursion in June- and cannot wait!!!!

TigerKat

12-16-2008, 11:37 AM

El - All I can say is WOW! AMAZING!

podsnel

12-16-2008, 01:06 PM

A few more dolphin photos- in this one, you can the platform under the water-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0249.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0251.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0253.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0255.jpg

Pucker-up, Boyspapa!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0256.jpg

All that swimming made us very hungry, so next on our list of things to do was to eat lunch. The DSs had authentic Mexican chicken nuggets!:rotfl:

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0289.jpg

DH had a quesadilla-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0290.jpg

And I had tacos, which I thought were yummy-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0291.jpg

In case you were wondering, there is no alcohol served in the park. Not that we asked.;)

We wanted to go to the pool, so that's what we headed to next-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0293.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0294.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0296.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0300.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0301.jpg

After the pool, we wanted to go see what this little cove was all about. We knew we were coming to the end of our time here, so didn't rent the snorkeling equipment. But as soon as we got into the water, I remembered what I had forgotten- watershoes!! I had read on here that the bottom was rocky, and the Dis does not lie!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0299.jpg

Well, DH was not interested in looking for fish anyway. He was interested in seeing the backs of his eyelids. So he plopped in one of these chairs, and according to him, this was the best part of the day!:rotfl:

White chair-GOOD!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0303.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0304.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0305.jpg

The boys were getting restless- they were asking when we were going back to the boat so they could go to their clubs, so we made our way out of the park and back to the port. Bye bye, Chankanaab-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0306.jpg

Hello cheesy tourist stuff!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0307.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0308.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0309.jpg

Cont'd in the next post-

Sophie_2003

12-16-2008, 01:42 PM

popcorn::

I love your TR. What an awesome day in Mexico. Did you find Chankanaab crowded (doesn't seem like it in the pics)? Pool looks nice!

karajeboo

12-16-2008, 02:06 PM

I was thinking your DH is so photogenic that he looks like a game show host! :rotfl2:

Of all the posts I just caught up on (and believe me, I've been sitting here a LOOOOONG time, neglecting work!) this one had me laughing so hard!!!! Kept thinking you were gonna tell us about your lovely parting gifts or something! :rotfl2:

And NO, we didn't make it to WDW this month - wow, I sound like a spoiled brat, don't I? But we totally missed out on all the lights this year. Oh, well, there's always next year.

Your report is wonderful!!! I keep bringing it up to DH and he just rolls his eyes at me. He tells me we need to try this el cheapo Carnival cruise that leaves from here in town, just to make sure we enjoy the whole cruise thing. I'm a little concerned about it though..... Think we're gonna do something on Carnival in the spring to "test the waters" so to speak. I'm afraid that I will feel obligated to hop off in each port and rush rush rush. When we go to Jamaica, we do NOTHING but float in the pool, float in the ocean, oh, and hang by the pool bar. We have yet to see Dunns River Falls, we just do nothing but relax. We never leave the resort. So on a cruise will I feel like I HAVE to disembark in each port? That is the question.

OK, enough about me! On to your report! It's awesome!

i<3castawaycay123

12-16-2008, 02:49 PM

When we went on our 3rd cruise back in October 2007, my dad and I did the exact same dolphin swim at the same place! We loved it, even though it was pouring down rain. When my dad did the foot push he yelled, "I'm king of the world!" and flexed his muscles, it was an awesome pic so we got it! We had a bad experience because it was raining. :guilty: One little boy on the Disney Cruise slipped on the wet wood and broke his leg like in 2 or 3 different parts and he was in a full body cast to keep from moving. Another girl got stung by a jellyfish. We loved it, even though those things happened. I'm glad you guys had a great time!

alan_renfroe

12-16-2008, 03:32 PM

Excellent updates, Ellen! That picture of the two dolphins out of the water is amazing. Some of your photos look like brochure material!

I didn't know you formerly worked at an aquarium. One of my favorite animals on the planet is the manatee, closely followed by dolphins. I would LOVE for our family to swim with the dolphins. That is a great experience that you all got to share with your boys. Nice!

podsnel

12-16-2008, 06:30 PM

Love the dolphin pics!!! We are doing a Dolphin Excursion in June- and cannot wait!!!!

That's excellent! Have fun!!

El - All I can say is WOW! AMAZING!

Thanks, sweetie!

popcorn::

I love your TR. What an awesome day in Mexico. Did you find Chankanaab crowded (doesn't seem like it in the pics)? Pool looks nice!

Hi! No, I didn't think it was crowded at Chankanaab at all- just the right amount of people. I forgot to mention we all got lockers to put our stuff into, so there was no worrying over where's my wallet gonna go while I'm hangin with the dolphins.:thumbsup2

Of all the posts I just caught up on (and believe me, I've been sitting here a LOOOOONG time, neglecting work!) this one had me laughing so hard!!!! Kept thinking you were gonna tell us about your lovely parting gifts or something! :rotfl2:

Bob, tell us what she's won! Yea, that one had me laughing really hard too!:rotfl:

And NO, we didn't make it to WDW this month - wow, I sound like a spoiled brat, don't I? But we totally missed out on all the lights this year. Oh, well, there's always next year.

Your report is wonderful!!! I keep bringing it up to DH and he just rolls his eyes at me. He tells me we need to try this el cheapo Carnival cruise that leaves from here in town, just to make sure we enjoy the whole cruise thing. I'm a little concerned about it though..... Think we're gonna do something on Carnival in the spring to "test the waters" so to speak. I'm afraid that I will feel obligated to hop off in each port and rush rush rush. When we go to Jamaica, we do NOTHING but float in the pool, float in the ocean, oh, and hang by the pool bar. We have yet to see Dunns River Falls, we just do nothing but relax. We never leave the resort. So on a cruise will I feel like I HAVE to disembark in each port? That is the question.

OK, enough about me! On to your report! It's awesome!

I'd be the same way you are if I lived in Fla- at WDW as much as humanly possible! There has to be some perk for livin' with all those lizards and snakes!! Glad you've got DH at least thinking about a cruise! Just remember on that Carnival cruise, DCL will be much nicer- sometimes the short cruises on Carnival are more "party boats" (not that there's anything WRONG with that), so keep that in mind. It's up to you on what to do at the ports- staying on the ship when you're in port is probably a very good thing- there is still stuff going on, and the spa usually has discounts on treatments. Plus, there's that feeling of "we own the ship". I know what you're talking about with the never seeing Dunn's Falls- we're headed to St John in January for the third time, and I've never seen Trunk Bay or the Sugar Cane thingee- I have, however, spent a LOT of time laying around the pool!!;) Never undervalue the do-nothing vacation- it's awesome, too!

When we went on our 3rd cruise back in October 2007, my dad and I did the exact same dolphin swim at the same place! We loved it, even though it was pouring down rain. When my dad did the foot push he yelled, "I'm king of the world!" and flexed his muscles, it was an awesome pic so we got it! We had a bad experience because it was raining. :guilty: One little boy on the Disney Cruise slipped on the wet wood and broke his leg like in 2 or 3 different parts and he was in a full body cast to keep from moving. Another girl got stung by a jellyfish. We loved it, even though those things happened. I'm glad you guys had a great time!

Love that King of the world comment!! It DOES feel that way! Glad you didn't let the bad weather spoil your fun.:thumbsup2 That is so sad about that boy falling down and breaking his leg!!:scared1: That poor family must have been a wreck-

Excellent updates, Ellen! That picture of the two dolphins out of the water is amazing. Some of your photos look like brochure material!

I didn't know you formerly worked at an aquarium. One of my favorite animals on the planet is the manatee, closely followed by dolphins. I would LOVE for our family to swim with the dolphins. That is a great experience that you all got to share with your boys. Nice!

Thanks again, Alan! I forget- have you gone to HHI? If you're into the dolphins, that island is loaded with them- there are between 400 - 600 dolphins that live there year round. It's kind of impossible not to see them when you're there! And manatees are just so sweet- how could you NOT love them?:love:

MAGICFOR2

12-16-2008, 06:51 PM

plutospup

12-16-2008, 08:22 PM

Wow! Looks like you had a great day with the dolphins. Glad your boys got to experience the joy and wonder of marine mammals.

podsnel

12-17-2008, 02:29 PM

Ellen! Thanks for sharing your dolphin memories with us! Your "foot push" pics look so awesome! :thumbsup2 I love dolphins, ever since I watched Flipper as a child.

Kara, I would agree with Ellen - lots of people enjoy staying on a quiet ship and relaxing while in port. There is still plenty of pampering to be had. I liked cruising because you can see lots of places without buying lots of plane tickets.... We chose one morning excursion at each port, and then relaxed in the afternoon - a little shopping and then getting back to the ship early for drinks by the pool.

I think it will be easier to go on DCL after Carnival than to go on Carnival after DCL - but, I wouldn't base your whole "this is what cruising is" on that experience. Of course we are all Disney Snobs, right? :snooty:

That's one of my favorite things about any cruise- waking up somewhere new to explore every day!!

And yes, we are!:snooty:

Wow! Looks like you had a great day with the dolphins. Glad your boys got to experience the joy and wonder of marine mammals.

I'm glad, too! I wanted to tell you, I loved hearing you put up the ornaments and remember all your prior trips with them- I do the same thing. Love collecting those ornaments on vacation!!

Camster0307

12-17-2008, 03:20 PM

Ellen - Those dolphin pix are awesome! What a great experience for everyone!

So glad to see you still had a good time -- minus the alcohol!;)

podsnel

12-17-2008, 04:23 PM

Ellen - Those dolphin pix are awesome! What a great experience for everyone!

So glad to see you still had a good time -- minus the alcohol!;)

SHHHHHH!!!!!! Don't tell anyone! I'd hate for that to start a trend!:rotfl:

karajeboo

12-17-2008, 04:24 PM

What???? :scared1: No alcohol? Where? And WHY did you stay there??? :rotfl2:

podsnel

12-17-2008, 05:25 PM

The kids were back at their clubs, and we realized DH had forgotten to buy a tshirt somewhere- so of COURSE we needed to go back out to Cozumel, and have a margarita and a tshirt! For no reason imparticular other than it was close, we ended up at Senor Frogs.

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0312.jpg

There seemed to be alot of large family groups here, and from the looks of them, they had been here all day- :drinking1 :jumping1: They were having alot of fun playing games with balloon critters on their heads while they drank shots upside down. :woohoo: But we were boring, and ordered a giant margarita and a Sol beer, and watched them all having a good time. This was not exactly what I imagined for a margarita in Mexico (I think I have since learned SR Frogs is owned by Americans- that would explain a LOT about the drinks). However, I have approximately 2 years to figure out where in Cozumel you would go for a REAL margarita made with (GASP!) limes, tequila & sugar, so if you hang in there, in 2 years you can read about that one. But for today, all I can say is that I wouldn't go back to Senor Frogs for another giant Rita- unless it was raining, and I was with a HUGE group. And I couldn't convince them to go try a REAL Rita at the place I'm gonna find in the next 2 years. Or we go there after the REAL Ritas. And it's raining a LOT. Anyway, here's the view from our table-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0313.jpg

Me with my giant glass of sugar and chemicals-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0314.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0317.jpg

We headed into the tshirt shop, where DH purchased a shirt with frogs doing some crazy, witty frog stuff, and then were done for the day. I really seemed to be wiped out, I guess we'd had a busy one!

The streets of Cozumel-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0318.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0319.jpg

A gorgeous end to a gorgeous day-

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0320.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0323.jpg

Back to the ship- I need a pot o' coffee to wake up for Pirate Night!!

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/podsnel/dcl%202008/2008_110506summer0326.jpg