Aug 3 Western Disney Magic Roll Call

[tinkerbell4two]

If you're on the August 3rd sailing of the Disney Magic, please post here. It might be fun to hook up names & faces!

We have a group of 14
2 grandparents - 40th wedding anniversary and b'day, both 60
6 parents - Our 10th wed ann, both 32; + 35,35,36,38
6 kids - DS 5, DD 4 1/2, DD 3 2/3, DS 3 2/3, DS 3 1/2 and DD 1 1/2
No...the kids are not all mine. Just two sweet angel girls.

Anybody Else? I know you are out there...I've seen your posts!

I JUST CAN'T WAIT!!! Is anybody having pre-cruising parties? We are inviting over the travel agent to give us first hand acounts of her experience.
I think I'll brew up the Konk Kooler recipe to get us in the mood. :smooth:

[mmouse37]

Hi Tinkerbell4two....

We are a group of 17!!! Here goes

Me 43
DH 45
DD18
DS17
DSF17 (son's friend)
DD14
This will be our 6th DCL cruise!!!!

Our friends:
DH 42
DW 40
DD 17
DD 15
DS 8
This will be their 3rd DCL cruise!!!

Our other friends:
DH ? (I feel so silly, I do not know their exact ages...mid-40's)
DW ?
DS16
DS11
DD6
This will be their 1st DCL cruise!!!!

We have a total of six cabins (Cat 9, Deck 2). We are late seating and we are flying down from New York & New Jersey on Friday, August 2nd and staying at the Radisson. Renting vans from Avis at airport.

Our three hubbies are all Port Authority Police Officers. They lost 37 of their fellow officers on 9/11 and this is their first vacation since then. All vacations were suspended due to the 9/11 events. We are soooooo looking forward to some downtime!!!! They have been working 6-7 days a week @ 12 plus hours a day!!!

Bring on the frozen drinks!!!

MJ

[Tinky]

We're there!!
Only my group looks sort of punie (sp) next to your groups.
It will be:
Me 35
DH 37 (BUT will be celebrating 38th on the cruise...hee hee)
DD 12
DS 4 1/2
DF 3

This will be our first Disney Cruise and we can't wait.
<perk> who said frozen drinks???

We're also at the Radisson at the Port the night before.
We're still in a holding pattern on our room for the cruise. We have a guarantee Cat 4 so we I guess we'll be on deck 8.
See ya there!

[mmouse37]

I think having a pre-cruise party is a very good idea!!! I am going to invite our friends over about a week or two before and have a cruise party. I'll make pina coladas and other asst'd frozen drinks and play steel band Disney music (still waiting for the Beauty and the Beat CD to come from Amazon.com. We will go over all our final travel arrangements.....great idea!!!

MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

What is on the Beauty and the Beat CD? We already have Disneys' greatest Hits Volume 1. My DD LOVES it.

How many nice outfits should I bring for the kids? I know I need a tropical outfit, but what about formal nights and regular nights? It turns out that I'll have to bring 15 dresses including for me. TOOO many!!!!

Nicole

[ExecuMom]

There's nine of us:

Me - 36
Mark - 37
Matthew 13
Sean 9 1/2
Karen - 28 (newlywed to Keith the week before)
Keith - 35
Chris - 35
Julie 7
Barbara - 60 (Grandmom's second DCL Cruise with us!)

See you all there!!:earsgirl: :earsboy:

[BarbaraB]

We are also on the August 3 cruise.

Myself 40
DH 42
DD 13
DS 4 1/2
DD 4 1/2 (twins)

Can't wait!!

[Jamie]

Also on Aug 3rd!!

Myself and DH ( both 40- Do I really want to anounce that??)
DD 13
DS 10

Staying at the Radisson the night before.

[mmouse37]

Beauty and the Beat is steel drum and it has:

A Spoonful of Sugar
Heigh-Ho!
Some Day My Prince Will Come
Under the Sea
Kiss the Girl
Part of your World
Tour of the Kingdom/Wedding Announcement
I Just Can't Wait to be King
Hakuna Matata
Can You Feel the Love Tonight
No Matter What (not sure what this is from)
Beauty and the Beast
Home (not sure what this is from either)
Be Our Guest


MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

Thanks! After your recommendation I went out and ordered it thru yahoo. The kids love dancing to the music and DD is always asking me "Now which one is this song?" her favorites are Hakuna Matata and A Spoonful of Sugar.

Who booked their excursions? I'm still trying to decide. I must sit DH down and figure it out. I think we might rent a two person conch car at Key west, snorkel with the stingrays but not sure which company to go thru at GC and at Cozumel, DH wants to see the Tulum Ruins, but I can go without. I'll probably sit on a beach with kids and other family members while DH and brother go to Tulum. Does anyone know how to get a water taxi from Conzumel to the main land? Is it easy? With 4 adults and 4 kids it needs to be easy!

Nicole

[mmouse37]

tinkerbell.....I read on one of the recent Western posts about the 11:00 am ferry is only for DCL excursion people. I don't know the times of the ferry if you want to go to the mainland on your own. I think it is about a 40 minute ferry ride, I could be wrong. Once at the mainland I do not know how far the ruins are. I am just a wealth of info today aren't I!!!

Jamie...we are also staying at the Rad the night before. We have DD18, DD14, DS17 and DSF17 (son's friend). Plus about 11 others in our group of varying ages!

MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

MJ- What kind of information did you receive in the mail about the excursions? We haven't received any info yet on them via mail, but I think I've found plenty of stuff via the internet.

All payments made....Now we are commited! YEA!!! Is if there was any question.:D

Nicole

[mmouse37]

Hi Nicole. A regular sized envelope came with a Magical Treasures Guide (for ordering some gifts, etc.), a shore excursion pamphlet explaining each of the shore excursions offered at each Port and two front and back pages that were order forms for the excursions. It listed the name of the excursions, age requirements, price, duration and meeting times.

MJ

[mmouse37]

bump

[MCazer]

Looks like we should be receiving our stuff as well! Can't wait - we are also staying at the Radisson the night before.

[tinkerbell4two]

Finally, we received excursion information from our TA. We had a nice pre-cruise dinner with the family and our TA and her DH were able to tell us more about the cruise. We decided to do an adult family excursion on Grand Cayman and everyone will be on their own at Key West and Cozumel. BTW, SIL found lanyards with waterproof card holder for 98¢ at Walmart.

Nicole

[mmouse37]

bump

[Jhondy(210)]

wow this thread took me forever to find!!!! anyway i'll be on the cruise then i'm 16(F) my twin bro will be there along with my younger sis 10(f) (<-- lol i forgot her age) my older bro 22 his fiance also 22 and my parents.

[mmouse37]

Welcome! Glad you found the 8/3 thread. Is this your first Disney cruise? Are you guys coming in to Orlando the morning of the cruise, or the day before? We are staying at the Radisson in Cocoa Beach the night before. The teens (DD18, DS17, DD14, *DDF17, *DDF15, *DSF17, *DSF16 in our large group of 17 plan on hanging out by the pool at the Radisson on Friday 8/2.

*DSF = Disney Son's Friend
*DDF = Disney Daughter's Friend

If this is your first cruise make sure you attend the Teen 411 on the first night so you can meet all the teens onboard. There will be an invitation put in your stateroom sometime during the first day. This will be our 6th Disney cruise.

Also, check out the Teen Daily Navigators at the following website. It list most of the activites for teens so you can get an idea what goes on during the cruise. Just remember the schedule will be a bit different because we will be on the WEstern Itinerary and not the EAstern.

www.*****************

Look for the Navigators section and click on 7 day teen navigator.

Hope this helps!!

MJ

[Jhondy(210)]

Thanks for the info. this cruise isn't my first but i don't remember my first all that well cause i was only 5 at the time so its kinda like my first all over again. we are actually flying in on the 28th and spending time at disney world and then going on the cruise and i have no idea about the hotel alls i remember is it had the name french in it lol.

i probably will attend the teen 411 because i'd like to meet the other teens and i'm only doing the teen party on the yacht thing(also forgot its name) and not doing the other teen excursion.(i can't swim and the other one seemed to have alot to do with water i.e. snorkeling)

well hope to see you all there.

[Blu eyz235]

We will be sailing along as well. Family of four... daughter 16 y/o, and son 18. This will be our 5th Disney cruise, and we can't wait!!!!

[tinkerbell4two]

Welcome Blu eyz235 and Jhondy(210),
Let's talk excursions! We finally decided on the Red Barron Stingray snorkel excursion on Grand Cayman and we are very close to a waverunner tour on Key West. Can't decide if we want to rent the runners as a couple or solo.
Cozumel still has me puzzled. Has anyone been there? Since we will be their all day, we really want to make it a family day (which means us and DDs 3 1/2 and 1 1/2 yr olds in tow). Wouldn't mind renting a jeep, but we're leaning towards Chankanaab. I read, "Get there early, get a hammack/umbrella and relax!" I'll have to do my usual researching and see what pops out at me. My DS (Dear/Disney Sister in this case) and her DH are going to try to get to Cancun to relive their honeymoon. Brother wants to see Tulum, but we have read too many negatives and with soooo many things to do during the cruise, Tulum will just have to wait for another trip. As I was researching Key West I found the Dry Tortugas which I know I will be visiting someday and hopefully soon. Being from the west coast we get to Hawaii every other year, but I'm starting to see those gems in the south east and they are calling my name. :cool:
Oh.. just saw the new smilies...too cute and I even like the :mad:

BTW Jhondy, there is another thread out there for 8/3 cruise and another DISer who is 16 y/o has been posting. She goes by tiggeress

[mmouse37]

blue eyz235....is your son graduating H.S. this year? My DD18 is. Today is the last offical day of school and then next week is testing. Graduation is 6/24. I can't wait for school to be out...Hate waking them all up in the morning!!!! Where are you staying the night before, or are you flying in that morning? We are staying at the Radisson in Cocoa Beach.

Tinkerbell....as far as excursions I think we decided not to anything with DCL. I would like to do a beach day in Cozumel, I think a read about Mr. Sanchos or something like that. In key west I think we will take the conch train tour on our own. And in Grand Cayman some of us will do Stingray City with Capt. Marvin. On CC we just rent floats and tube, though DD14 want to do Parasailing...I think I have to go with her because she is too young to go solo!!!!

MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

Started researching Cozumel and came up with a few really good beaches.
For Sand Beaches:
[list=1]
Nancho Cocum
Mr. Sanchos
Playa Bonita
Dzul-Ha
[/list=1]
For Snorkeling:
[list=1]
Chankanaab
Playa del Sol
Playa Azul
Playa Coronce
[/list=1]
This link will take you to Beach Reviews in Cozumel (http://www.travelnotes.cc/cozumel/links/todoreviews/beaches.html)
We are still thinking about taking a Jeep and hitting a few of these great beaches. Since Nancho Cocum and Mr. Sanchos are right next to each other, we will most likely spend most of our time there, but I'd really like to see Chankanaab, too.
Too much to do, so little time.

[mmouse37]

bumping up!!

MJ

[Blu eyz235]

Is anyone else looking into horse back riding in Cozumel? My daughter really wants to, but I'm not sure if it's going to be worth it? What other excursions do you have planned?

[rewhitingjr]

DF46 (Disney Father) and DD17 (Disney Daughter) ready to set sail. We will visit WDW before cruise. Daughter planning to attend teen 411. Excursions planned include Keywest sunset sail, Cayman Stingray City and Tulum Ruins (Cozumel). DF planning to parasail at CC.

DD would like to get to know other teens before boarding. Let me know if you are interested.

:earseek: :earsgirl:

[Jhondy(210)]

Originally posted by rewhitingjr

DD would like to get to know other teens before boarding. Let me know if you are interested.


well if your daughter wants i would love to get to know her. i'm 16 (f) my email adress is cheetah1717@yahoo.com or my aol instant message screen name is X332340090210. i'm in contact with 2 other 16 yr.olds who she can also get to know if she doesn't mind us being a year younger. well i'd love to hear from her talk to you soon

Jhondy(210)

[Blu eyz235]

Hey, rewhitingjr, I'm one of the teens Jhondy has talked to. I would like to get to know other teens as well. I'm 16, but will be 17 a little while after the cruise. My e-ml and IM is Blueyz235@aol.com if your daughter would like it. :)

-Britt

[mmouse37]

Hey all you 8/3 cruisers....has anyone notcied from the other threads that our cruise is one of them that DCL will be testing the new dining times on. DCL is testing new dining times on the July cruises and ours on 8/3.

We are late seating and now instead of 8:30 pm we will be dining at 7:45 pm. The early seating has moved up to 5:30 pm.

How this affect everyone. For us, personally it is fine, but does anyone who has early seating find 5:30 too early?

P.s. Any teens who want to see a pic of our teens (so you see a familiar face once onboard) you can go to www.webshots.com and then look for Member photos on the right side.....then look and click on User Pages and then type in Daisy651. These are from my daughter's prom but my other two teens are in some pics as well. They are Allie 14, Keri 18 and Brian 17. These will only be public for a day or so and then I am making the site a private one.

MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

No, I didn't know this. Because we are from the West coast I don't think it will matter. My girls like to eat their dinner early...about 6 pm. Do you know why they are doing the change? is it because of the time changes on some of the islands? It doesn't seem to affect my family schedule except that we were planning to go to my parents room each night before dinner to have a nice bottle of wine and a cheese platter. Well If I'm ready for that at 5:30 then I guess i'll be ready at 5.
Thanks for the heads up!

Nicole

[mmouse37]

Hi Nicole....I do not know why, I think some guests complained that 8:30 was much too late for dinner (we always take late seating and never had a problem with it being too late).

I think Disney is just trying something different to see if the earlier times would please more people. I think alot of early seating people may find that 5:30 is too early to be ready. Oh well, like I said we are the fourth test cruise so by the time we sail they may have changed it back already, who knows!!!

MJ

[soccernacca11]

Hey everyone ,
what up? MY family of 4 are going on the Aug. 3 cruise. This is our 3rd 7 day cruise and our first to the western side. I'm 15 and huge with soccer and my bro is 13. If you want to IM me on AOL instant messenger my Screename is Soccernacca11.

Chris

[mmouse37]

welcome Soccernacca11.....glad you joined the thread....has your family planned any excursions yet and are you coming the day of the cruise or staying somewhere nearby the night before.

MJ

[soccernacca11]

MJ. I'm not sure if we are staying before but I think we are, and I know we haven't planned any excursions.

Chris

[mmouse37]

Hey all you 8/3 cruisers.....this thread was way back on page 10!!!! Has everyone received their documents? Everyone getting psyched?

I have been organizing all our stuff other than clothes that we may want to bring with us. It's really getting exciting!!

MJ

[nancyz]

We are getting very excited!!!

My family and I are part of tinkerbell4two's party, I'm actually her sister-in-law. I've started packing everything but the clothes. I've got my checklists going, so I know exactly what is left to buy before we leave and what is already packed.

My two boys, 5 and 3 yrs old, are ready to pack also. Everyday they ask if they can pack their toothbrushes for Disney!

YEAH!!!! I can't wait!!!


Nancy:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[mmouse37]

Hi nancyz....I can't wait to meet everyone onboard and put faces to screen names!!!! I hope we can all meet at some point onboard. This next month will go by pretty fast (I hope)

Anyone bringing beverages onboard? Since we will be at Radisson on 8/2 and have a van, we were thinking of bringing a 12-pack of soda and a couple bottles of wine (for me!!!). I decided not to bring the water bottles since the water on the ship up is very good (even the water from the machine on Deck 9!) I am packing my collapsible cooler in my suitcase and will carry on beverages in a tote bag.

I am also bringing a 2 qt pitcher I picked up at the dollar store to mix crystal light pink lemonade in. Need a change from soda once in awhile!!

MJ

[nancyz]

MJ,

We are bringing our collapsible cooler also to bring bottled water, tequila (my DH LOVES margaritas), and maybe some wine. At Costco we found the margarita mix in plastic bottles, so they will be going in the suitcase.

You said the water is good on board, maybe then all I need is to bring my water bottle from home to fill up before I leave the ship or while at the pool. Is that what you do? Just trying to cut down on bringing too much on board.

I'd love to meet you onboard at some point. I've been corresponding with ExecuMom in Philly.

Nancy

[ExecuMom]

:earsgirl: :earsboy: We are also soo excited!! This is our second cruise so we know what's waiting ahead!! Moved our flight from Philly from Saturday to Friday night (too many horror stories posted on DIS board).

I've got itineraries done, shore excursions done and even managed to upgrade us all to first class (roundtrip!) too!!;)

This month will go very fast as my sister gets married on the 26th of July (1 week before leaving!!). They are joining us on the cruise for the second part of their honeymoon.

Can't wait....

[mmouse37]

nancy....yes, I also bring a Rubbermaid Chuggables water bottle (it has a wider opening at the top to more easily fit ice) and fill it with ice and water and bring it to the pool (my little part for the environment!!!). Tell your DH Margaritas are my favorite as well ha ha!! Are you bringing a blender or just having them over ice?

Out of the 17 of us sailing in our group I am the only one who frequents this board. I always tell everyone about it but they just don't get the DIS thing. Oh well, I would be up for a meet with anyone who wants to get together.

On our last cruise the DIS'ers met in the Promenade lounge for a few minutes after the drill and before the sailaway party. We all introduced ourselves and then ran into each other at various times during the week.

Things are crazy here this week, we are still cleaning up after our DD graduation party (150 people!!!) and she's trying to pack for her trip to Cancun this Sun for a week with friends (how come I never had a childhood like this!!). I told her to hop on over to Cozumel and say hello to the Magic while it is in port that week (she just gave me the look).

Execumom......you seem all set!!!! I really want to get things organized because I do not want to run around the day before like a crazy woman.

MJ

[Mtdewbuzz]

Wow- don't know how I missed THIS thread!

Hello, everyone! If you don't know already, I'll be on the August 3rd cruise also. I'll also be bringing my wife with me. We're treating this like our 1 year wedding anniversary, even though we were married on August 25th, but oh well.
Also, we are bringing my best friend since 7th grade, who shares our love for fun & all things Disney. Hopefully, we can find him a nice gal between 21-25. We're making him do the singles thing the first night. ;)

Anyways, excursions:
-Key West: Trolley & train tour
-Caymans: Half day Stingray snorkel w/ Capt. Marvin's
-Cozumel: Jeep Safari Tour
-Castaway Cay: Nothing! Just relaxing on the beach.

Haven't received my documents yet, but my TA said to wait until July 20 before I worry.

As for dinner, I think the earlier time is GREAT!! I didn't even hear about that until I read this thread just now! Gives us adults on the late dinnertime more time to have some fun at the clubs, shows, etc. before bedtime! We're hoping for the APLAPLA dinner rotation, otherwise we'll just have it switched when we get there.

I think that pretty much covers it!! :D

[mmouse37]

mtdewbuzz.....I was wondering why you never checked in on this thread!!!!

What time are you heading over to the port. We are also staying at the Radisson and I wanted to get the gang moving out at about 10:00 - 10:15. I want to be at the Port when they open. Last time we were first on line and it was great!!! I think we will take one of our vans and drop all the luggage off with a porter and then come back and turn in the van. It will be easier to just load 17 people than 17 people and luggage on the shuttle.

You should also tell DCL that you and your wife and celebrating your one year anniv. (even though it is early). I am sure they will do a cake thing at the table or something.

Once when hubby and I sailed alone on the Wonder for our 20th anniv. DCL upgraded us to a veranda cabin and had champagne and chocolates waiting for us in the room!!! A very nice surprise.

I am leaning towards the jeep safari also, sounds like a blast!!!

MJ

[Mtdewbuzz]

Well, we'll be checking in late on Friday at the Radisson, then we'll probably go get some soda from a local store for the cruise, and maybe grab a bite to eat. Then it's off to bed, with an early wake-up time. I'm hoping to go there around the same time when they open & do the same thing with my luggage (thanks for the tip!) before returning our rental.
There will only be 3 of us, so it should be a fairly simple process (I hope).

[nancyz]

Wow, it is great to see how everyone is so excited!

ExecuMom, that is great you are flying 1st class RT. Lucky you!!

I'll be getting my docs tomorrow from my SIL, tinkerbell4two.

We are staying at the Embassy Suites at the Orlando Airport the night before, and taking 2 Happy Limos to the port. We hope to get there around 11am. We don't want to be too far back in line for boarding since we really want to get those Palo's ressies.

MJ, my DH likes his margaritas over ice, so we won't have to bring a blender. But I've heard rumors that my other SIL is bringing one.

A couple of you mentioned the Jeep tour on Cozumel, are you doing DCL's or your own excursion. My DH and I are planning our own since it is cheaper at starts earlier, at 10:30am.

I'm open for meeting briefly after the drill. Anyone else up for that time?

nancy:wave:

[tinkerbell4two]

Wow, I go to a July 4th celebration and missed you all this morning. Well it looks like we will all see each other at port, but I agree that we should meet later. I've heard a rumor that meeting on the 10th deck for castoff is a great spot, but I'm open to meeting after the boat drill. SIL- DS is planning to bring a blender and I was thinking about bringing my ice shaver, just don't know if I will have room. I love pouring mud slide mix over shaved ice..my new favorite thing since I got the machine. Also, the kids love shaved ice with flavors, but I'm sure DCL will have many enjoyable things that they will like just as well. What to do!?! What to do!?! (my favorite line from "Larry Boy and the Rumor Weed" for any of you who know Veggietales)

Nicole

[BarbaraB]

Meeting on board sounds good to me!!

We will be driving in from WDW and dropping off a car at Avis the morning of the cruise. Hopefully we will be at the port between 10:30 and 11:00. Definitely want to do Palo.

Nicole and Nancy--I grew up in La Honda and my DH and I lived in Redwood City when were first married. I get some good natured ribbing about being a Californian living here in Texas. (Especially after a certain court ruling) ;) ;)

Look forward to meeting you.

[nancyz]

BarbaraB -

I grew up in Redwood City, and now live in San Carlos. My paternal grandparents lived in Redwood City, and we now live in the house my maternal grandparents lived in.

Looking forward to meeting you either after the drill or on Deck 10 during castoff!



Nancy
:sunny:

[mmouse37]

All you cruisers from the West Coast, do you have direct flights or connections? If you have connections, do you worry about delays and such.

We are flying down on a direct flight from NY. Even though we have never really been delayed, we always try to fly the day before. We just got a call from Continental to tell us our return flight time was changed. I got really nervous at first because we wanted to spend the day we got off the ship sightseeing, but luckily they only changed our flight to be 20 minutes earlier so we still have the whole day.

It's getting closer....

MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

Most all the flights out of SFO and San Jose are connecting flights. Our connection is in Denver. Being that we are flying the day before and the airline we are flying with has 90% on-time flights, I'm really not that concerned. I'm much more concerned about what to bring and will they fit in our bags.

Nicole

[mmouse37]

Hey 8/3 Western Cruisers.....check out the Magic in Key West today. That will be us in a few weeks!!!! Today temp, 84 and party sunny....I'll take it!!!


http://www.kroooz-cams.com/ports/key_west.htm

MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

Thanks, MJ. That was very fun to watch and I even saw the light reflections on the ship from the sunset. Too bad they don't have a sunset cam. Did you see the weather in Port Canaveral yesterday. It looked very drizzly. I hope they don't have anymore rain. Just think, only one more stop for the Magic to Key West without us. Then it's our turn and someone else will be looking at the webcam and wishing they were us.

I have almost everything I need. Just looking for a perfect sundress. I imagine that I can start packing!!!:Pinkbounc

Nicole

[mmouse37]

Can't 8/3 get here any faster. I am at home doing laundry and various other mundane household chores, while my DD18 just left for Cancun for a week with friends. Something does not add up here!!!

Anyone start any serious packing yet. I am most ambitious in the morning, but I can't start lugging suitcases around in our bedroom because my hubby works nights and sleeps days. I have to wait until he wakes up then I usually lose my motivation!!!

Oh well.....there is always late night packing I guess!

MJ

[philncat]

Hello to all 8/3 cruisers,
I just found out about this thread. I am in a group of eleven. My family includes:DH- 48m, DD 20, DS 17, Mom and Dad (very young 70's), Brother's family which includes son 10 and twins (boy and girl) 4-1/2. I saw that there is another set of 4-1/2 twins on board. That will be fun. We are flying out of Orange County, CA but have not yet received any documents...I hope they will arrive today.
cat

[BarbaraB]

Welcome aboard. Hopefully we will be able to hook up the two sets of twins sometime!! Maybe in Kids Club.

I haven't started packing, but I have an ongoing list of things to pack that just seems to be getting longer. I am just hoping everything will fit in our suitcases!!

Barbara

[mmouse37]

Welcome Philncat. Are you flying in the day before or taking a red-eye in that morning? A few of us are staying at the Radisson the night before.

I am sure your DD20 and DS17 will run into my DD18 and DS17 at somepoint during the cruise!!! If they would like to check out some pictures of them they can go to www.webshots.com and look for Member Photos on the right. Then click on User Pages, then type in Daisy651, then click on Daisy651.


MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

So, my brother-in-law (BIL) gave me a choice of 5 different suitcases to borrow for the trip. I took three of them of course and started packing as soon as I got them home last night.

How does everybody pack their door organizer? filled or empty?

Welcome aboard, Philncat. Just love those take-offs from John Wayne (I went to CSULB and flew out of that airport a lot). We have one 5 1/2 y/o, one 4 1/2 y/o, three 3 1/2 y/o and one 1 1/2 y/o in our group. Your bother's kids will have lots of company. Tell them that Sophia (my DD) is looking forward to meeting them.

Nicole

[nancyz]

Hey, tinkerbell4 two!!

I just started packing the non-clothes items, and realized that snorkel equipment takes up a HUGE amount of space in our 30" piece of luggage. Luckily, through these posts, I figured out we don't need our wheeled collapsible cooler. That saved us lots of room. I"m packing the organizer empty, I like taking time when I first arrive to organize and scout out the space.

Sometimes I'm afraid we won't have enough room in our other pieces of luggage which are much smaller. Well, I guess it's time to choose between clothes that I really need and want to wear.




:D

Nancy

[Jamie]

Just missed the FEDEX man by 10 minutes today. Left a note he would try again tomorrow. An hour later he went flying by without even stopping. I made sure I left the garage door up so he'd know we're home. He didn't even look. I just want my cruise docs. Oh well, it's only 3:30 on the west coast so there's still hope.

Philncat, I also have a DS10. My DD is 13. Maybe we'll meet up before hand. DS is a lot more comfortable if he know's someone ahead of time. DD has no fears of new places or people (kind of scary when she was little).

Getting ready to start packing this week (we actually head to WDW on the 28th). I love you people. Everyone says I'm the most over planner (is that a word??) they know but they've never met you guys. later

[tinkerbell4two]

I was still thinking about bringing our cooler. Especially since we get that grocery stop and I'm planning on bringing at least 12 bottles of water. I've read many mixed reviews about the coolers. Some people say that they just role them on and DCL doesn't make a fuss about them at all. our TA says they really discourage them, but don't prohibit. I guess I really need to figure out if it is really necessary - for us.
MJ- I know you are packing yours. How much have you used it on DCL? BarbaraB - are you bring one?

Nicole

[Jamie]

We also are debating the cooler. We mainly wanted to bring it for the days at Grand Cayman and Cozumel as I really do not want to eat the food. On the other hand we really do not want to haul around a cooler if we are shopping. What are you guys doing on beach days???

[nancyz]

Hi,

Since MJ mentioned the water so good on Deck 9, we switched out our wheeled cooler for a small one, 12 can size, which we will use on beach days and on excursions. It is easier to squish into the luggage and we even plan on using it for food for the plane.

For water, we have 2 water bottles, a 1 liter container, and plastic cups for the pool and excursions.

For alcohol, the margarita mix is already in one suitcase since it is in plastic containers. DH will carry on the tequila after our grocery stop. We may carry on bottle of wine, not sure yet.

[MCazer]

We (me 38) DH (38) DD (6) DS (4)

Will be flying in the day before, renting a minivan through avis and staying at the Radisson. We will check in, and go shopping to a liquor store and anything else we may have forgotten.

I have my over the door shoe holder empty because I put alot of bathroom items in there that I pack in our carry on.

Don't forget your lanyards. And a hole puncher for the room key (don't punch the magnetic strip. They are great for holding the kids club beepers too, I find if its around my neck, I won't lose it, or put it down and forget it. My husband left ours in the room one night, luckily the kids didn't need us.

I may bring a smaller soft sided cooler for snacks for Grand Cayman and Mexico and Key West and Castaway. Hopefully we will get to see it this time!

I have 2 large $1.00 blow up floats and 2 Disney Store floats for the kids. We also picked up some sand pails and shovels at a local .99 store by the port for this kids at Castaway cay.

Oh, this is a good thing to bring....

have you seen those commercials for those hooks that you can clip on mirrors and walls, they come like 8 to a set. They hold really well. Anyway, I brought one last year and it was invaluable. I clicked it onto our full length mirror in the room and it became a great place to hold a hanger for getting dressed and also for my lanyard when I would get ready for bed. Always knew were it was!

oh, and if you are a freak like me, and have to have some kind of white noise in the background when you sleep, do what I did. Went to a cheapo store (odd job, maces) and got a little radio / digital clock. I would set the radio on static and it was great! Also good because there are no clocks in the rooms.

If you have kids, don't forget to bring the hair detangler, because after swimming and swimming, their hair seems to get into knots a whole lot more!

If I think of anything else, I will be sure to post it.

If you guys come up with anything, be sure to post too!

[nancyz]

I was wondering if others were bringing floats and sand toys. DH isn't too keen on bringing sand toys, said it takes up too much room, but I thought it would be a good idea, since we have small ones in the yard we could use.

Are others bringing their own floats? Not sure if DH will agree to blow up floats. Of course he doesn't know yet that I've packed two blow up balls for the beach.:D

nancy

[BarbaraB]

Yes, we are bringing a soft, cooler. But I think I am going to pack it in our duffle bag. We have reserved an 11:15 Captain Marvins trip and I wanted to be able to bring some lunch. We are also planning on bringing some soda and maybe a couple of bottles of wine.

I bought two blow up inter tubes, and a couple of beach balls to bring (all under a dollar at Walmart), but haven't decided about the sand toys (they are bulky). I was thinking of just throwing in a couple of shovels for us to play with.

I am also bringing some party bubbles and some of those "glow in the dark" necklaces or sticks for the kids for the evenings (Ace has them on sale here for .99)

I still need to do one more shopping trip for disposable water cameras, lanyards, etc. I am planning to do that this weekend.

We are soooo excited about going!!! We leave 3 weeks from tomorrow!

Barbara

[tinkerbell4two]

Nancy - If you bring the blow up toys, I'll bring the shovels and buckets which double as castles.

I also found mini squirt animals and disk weights for the pool - very cheap at target. Also got water cameras at target, glitter sunscreen which both DDs like, Wrinkle Free for the clothes and travel clock which illuminates to see the time in the dark.

Any luxury items? Mine is a water mister for WDW and maybe my iceshaver if I find the room.

Nicole

[nancyz]

BarbaraB - I found the lanyards with ziplock closure pouch at Walmart for $.97 in the fishing dept. Great purchase!

Nicole - I'll pick up floats, two ok? We are reserving two blue floats on CC. DH doesn't want to blow up anything, so we may need to recruit a few others to blow everything up.

I packed 3 small bottles of bubbles which I had left over from a company picnic. Thought they would be fun for castoff.:D

nancy

[mmouse37]

Nicole, I also pack the over the door organizer empty and fill it once onboard.

Our soft-sided cooler is small, only holds about 5 bottles of water. I don't plan on packing too much in it, just some drinks for shore excursions. We did use it alot on our previous cruises. I also put ice in zip lock bags and then bring the cooler to the pool with me. Works out great!!!

I got hooked on those Smirnoff Ice drinks out a party recently, so I think I bring some of them onboard. We are also going to the liquor store on Friday 8/2 in Cocoa Beach. There was a huge liquor store on the same side as the Radisson a few miles down from it.

MJ

[mmouse37]

bump

[tinkerbell4two]

So, nobody is bringing a rolling collapsible cooler? Just small collap. coolers for small day trips, right? I haven't decided yet. I know they take up a lot of space, but I really want to cut down on the cost of drinks on board.

I started to pack the kids clothes first. I'm packing all our clothes in pack-mate bags which should save us some room.

Still need to find that perfect sundress.....

Nicole

[ExecuMom]

I'm probably bringin my collapsable rolling-coller. I just got it at Costco and I think it will fit nicely in my suitcase. I'm really going to try to not overpack clothes, so it should fit great.

Last cruise I did a load of laundry every other day or so and it worked out great.

We are big wine drinkers so we are planning to stop and buy some wine to keep for both dinner and coctails.

I've not started packing, but have my guestroom stacked with things as I think of them. It's close!!!:D :)

[Mtdewbuzz]

I haven't even started packing yet. I probably won't until the week of the trip.

Anyone know how much money we should actually bring for when we're not on the boat? Is all we need US dollars & traveler's checks??

[mmouse37]

bringing this back up to the front...was all the way back on page 5!!!!

Well, I think we are going to bring about $1,300 cash/traveller's checks with us. I will be happy if we don't go over that. That's including tips, excursions, souvies, drinks, etc. We are a total group of 17 but our immediate family will be 6 on this cruise. This is about what we spent last July on the Eastern.

MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

We figured on $1500 for the trip in cash/traveler's checks and the cruise kttw card bill will come to about $1000. The DCL bill includes 1 excursion, 2 spa treatments, shutter's photos, tips, Palo's brunch and dinner, drinks and a few gifts for my parents. The cash part incudes, misc. tips, happy limo, 2 excursions, shopping, 4 day WDW shopping and food at WDW. So far I have been giving DDs Disney Dollars for doing good deeds. I might get more Disney Dollars for WDW. It will just make it that much more fun and I hear that we can even use them at all Disney restaurants at WDW.

Anybody planning a trip to WDW before or after? We are going to be staying at Riverside and will fly home on the 13th.

Nicole

(MJ-Thanks for always bumping this up)

[MCazer]

We are staying at Cypress Pointe until the 13th, and are doing Seaworld, and Discovery Cove, Pirate Dinner Theatre, and possibly Ripleys

[mmouse37]

I think we are doing Sea World on the day we disembark (the 10th). Our flight is not until 6:00 pm and we will have a rental car. This is the first trip to Florida that we will not be heading to WDW either before or after the cruise. It will feel strange!!

MJ

[mmouse37]

bumping up for alternativekid20 to see.

MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

Does anyone want me to put up a list of DISers for our cruise and did we ever decide where we were going to meet? My vote is for deck 10 cast-off. We will be the family with lots of bubbles and blue tie-dye shirts.

MJ- I just read your post about the drunken sailer on your last cruise. Wow, you have got so many stories! you should write a book about all of your cruise experiences. Can't wait to meet you to hear lots more.

Only 19 days! I can hardly stand it!

Nicole

[Mtdewbuzz]

I don't know what I'm wearing yet the first day. I'm trying to find a Disney t-shirt that I like, but I'm not having much luck. I'll let you know when I find out for sure, or just look for the 6'4" brown-haired 26-yr old guy with his wife & hairy friend. :)

[BarbaraB]

Our cruise doc's finally arrived today. Yeah!!

We will be blowing bubbles during the cast off, but I have no clue what we will be wearing. Probably some Disney shirts we find in Orlando (we will be spending a couple of days in WDW before the cruise).

We leave two weeks from tomorrow.

[floridaminnie]

I just wanted to welcome all the newcomers to our thread. I can't wait to meet all of you!

[mmouse37]

I don't mind meeting on Deck 10 for sailaway to meet everyone!!! I have lime green pipe cleaners (could not find ribbon) that is will twist onto my shoulder bag. Don't know what I'll be wearing.

Nicole....Did you read the post about the kid who jumped off Deck 4 while we were in port in St. Thomas. That was on our 7/7/01 cruise. They found out what he did because when he went to get back on the ship he was soaking wet and when they swiped his card it showed that he had never left the ship (by way of the gangway, at least!!!) They put two and two together. The Captain had in "house arrest" for the remainder of the cruise. He could only leave his cabin accompanied by his parents. They were so concerned because the ship was testing the propellers at the time you can only imagine what could have happened. He apparently did it on a dare.

That was also the cruise that a man had a medical emergency and we could not leave CC until 10:30 at night (everyone had to stay on the ship while they airlifted him off the island). That put us very late into Port Canaveral and many people missed their morning flights.

The drunken guy was unbelievable. This happened on our 2/23/02 cruise. My DD18 handled it very well, though when she found us to tell us she was still shaking. The woman was very grateful and the little boy looked so sad. Apparently the mom didn't go on the cruise (they were separated) and the little boy and dad were in one cabin. Other family members were travelling in another cabin and that woman was very concerned for the little boy because the boy's dad was drunk all the time. The little boy wondered out of the cabin and was lost on the ship for awhile. When the woman went to confront the boy's dad, that's when all heck broke loose. She wanted to take care of the boy for the remainder of the cruise but the father kept yelling that she was trying to kidnap the boy and that he would kill her for it. It was a mess. I have to say that Disney security was there in a heartbeat.

I think putting a list together is fine....anyone else?

MJ

[Mtdewbuzz]

I called my TA yesterday expressing my concern about not receiving my cruise docs yet. They call ed back & told me that they had received them ,and would be mailing them in time for me to receive them tomorrow.

Which makes me wonder how long I would have been waiting had I NOT called.....

Oh, well- 17 more days & I'll be on a Disney Cruise!! Hooray!!:bounce:

[mmouse37]

Well, I offically started packing today. I sorted thru some clothes and have a pile going in the corner of the room. I have not pulled out the suitcases yet, but soon!!!

MJ

[Mtdewbuzz]

I'm going to start my "pack list" in the next few days. Once I have a list, it nevers takes me very long to get everything packed (assuming all my clothes are clean). I'm going to do little shopping this weekend too for shorts & maybe pants.

Oh, but I DID get my documents yesterday as promised!! YAY!!!

[DuncanLL]

We don't sail until Nov. 9th, but I just wanted to ask any of you who can to please write trip reports when you return - especially about excursions. This will be our 5th DCL cruise, but 1st on the Western. If you've done the Eastern before, let us know what's different on the Western.

Your comments and suggestions will be so helpful as we continue to plan...

Linda

[nancyz]

We are also starting to pack this weekend, and making sure the boys, 5 and 3, have enough clothes for the week. DH will probably pack the night before we leave, as usual.

Linda, I'll be keeping a journal of our trip, so I plan on writing a trip report. Just to let you know, we have excursions booked for KW, GC, and Coz. Waverunners, Stingray City, and Jeep Safari Tour. All excursions were booked independently, so that should give others a different perspective.

Can't wait to meet everyone on Deck 10. I'll be in Nicole's group with the blue tie die shirts and bubbles.

Nancy

[ExecuMom]

Already started too!! I make my list and then start putting things in the guest room so that they go in the suitcase. I'm really going to try not to overpack, put it's hard.

Two weeks to go!!!:earsgirl: :earsboy:

[mmouse37]

Brought my list to Wal-Mart tonight and picked up two Fuji underwater cameras for $7.88 ea (27 exp), some more sunscreen, highlighters, coated wire hangers (12 for .88). I always pack my clothes on hangers in the suitcase and then just pull them out and hang them in the closet in the cabin. I used to use the plastic tubular ones, but they take up so much space. I thought these would work much better.

They did not have the over the door shoe holder or the lanyards for the KTTW cards. I'll look elsewhere.

Two weeks from tonight we will be having our first dinner onboard!!!

MJ

[ExecuMom]

I got the same Fuji camaras. I heard they take the best underwater pictures. So in addition to the disposable camarras I always buy the kids when we vacation, I got two of these as well.

mmouse - if you go on-line to target.com you can order the shoe holders, and the lanyards, and have them delivered. I didn't have time to hunt around for them so did that and it was great!

:bounce: :Pinkbounc
Michele

[MCazer]

I got my over the door shoe hold at Target last year, I bought the clear one, so that I could see everything through it. It was the best thing in the world. It also kept the bathroom free of cluter (and me) and the draws clear too.

I picked up great lanyards last year at OLD NAVY. They are great and they usually have such nice patriotic colors!

I have also purchased a huge box of Gallon Slide Lock bags and as I do laundry and see a cute outift, I iron it, put a pair of matching socks and underwear for the kids. This way, each day, they can open their draw, take a bag, and dress themselves. They get to choose, but the draw stays nice and neat, and I don't have to refold and refold. The stay nicer (less wrinkled) in the plastic too.

Alas, I don't think my clothes would fit in the gallon bags ;) . Bummer.

Oh, I also got some travel toilet seat covers for my kids when we go into port. I hate it when the bathrooms are disgusting and there is no toilet paper, and nothing for the kids to sit down on. They were .79 and they were with the travel stuff (like neck pillows etc.) at a local CVS pharmacy. Just a little headsup if you decide to do the Tulum tour - Bring your own toilet paper! When we were there, there was a women passing out sheets of toilet paper and she definately wanted some money in return. I had none, but I had tissues. Not sure if it is still the same, but you never know!

[mmouse37]

Great ideas!!! My DD14 Allison and I are off to Target to look for the over the door shoe holder and some other stuff.

I think I waited too long to look for a bathing suit. Most of the stores already have had them on clearance and not much selection left!!!! I can't believe they are pushing "back to school" and fall fashions already. I HATE THAT!!! Let's enjoy the summer while it is summer. I don't want to think of what I have to buy for back to school yet!!!

MJ

[BarbaraB]

Mcazer: Thanks for the tip on the toliet paper. We had that experience in Europe, had to pay for it and they would give you one square!!!. I had forgotten all about it until I saw your post. Will definitely bring tissue.

Walmart had some really cute lanyards yesterday in their kids department. Smiley faces, princesses, flowers, etc. I bought Fuji underwater cameras yesterday too!!

Haven't started packing, but am starting to "gather" things.

We leave a week from Tuesday.

[tinkerbell4two]

Execumom-Did you say you were buying your kids? (HA-HA)

I'm a little dingy tonight. Just got home from a four day quick-trip to SeaWorld and Legoland in So. Cal. which included a family reunion and meeting up with three friends and their families while driving over 1000 miles. Just a weeee-bit tired. But we had a great time and used this time to see what we really wanted to bring on the cruise. 1) two umbrella strollers and connectors to lock them together, 2) a 2 quart rubbermaid screw top pitcher to tote around drinks with our disposable sippy cups, 3)hats and sunscreen (will bring kids sunglasses, but they didn't want to keep them on), MORE digi cam MEMORY. We actually used all of our memory up (128- and 64-MB cards) in two days and this was after I went through and weeded out the bad shots.
I'm washing tonight and I'll really start to pack tomorrow. DH must let me know what he wants to bring or will be wearing his flight attire all week.
Just need sunglass neck floats and snacks for the plane. DD 1 1/2 loves the new astroids ( mini cheetos) in the black bottles. So, I'll have to bring a case of those with us as well.

MCazer- love your idea about the kid's outfits-in-a-bag each day. I tried to do something similar on this trip with the pack-mate no-air bags and it worked out great to keep me organized.

Nicole

[Blu eyz235]

Hey~

Haven't been to the boards in awhile, been sooo busy with things and packing (we leave for florida thursday!!! Yippee!!!), wondeirng if there's a DIS meet spot? Unfortunately we won't be able to go online while in florida, so was just curious before we leave?! Ok, well see u all on the 3rd!!! :cool: :) :D

[tinkerbell4two]

Blu eyz- We figure that most of us will see each other in the main lobby at 10:30 or so, but the place we plan to meet at is the 10th deck for cast-off. Look for lots of blue tie-dye shirts and bubbles.

See you there!
Nicole

[Mtdewbuzz]

mmouse- you explained the hangars, but why highlighters? I'm assuming to highlight your navigators, am I right?

As far as underwater cameras go, I got a Kodak sport one. I've heard it is wise when getting underwater pics developed to have the photo processors add +10 to the red so they come out more colorful, and less green/blue. Anyone know if this is true??

[mmouse37]

mtdewbuzz....yep....highlighters are for the Navigators. With 5 in our immediate family we are always doing different things. I am bringing 4 colors so my hubby and I can do what we want and the kids can highlight what they want.

It always seem I look at it in the morning and say Oh, at 3:00 I want to do such and such and always seem to forget what I wanted to do (old age). Now I highlight everything in the morning and keep checking to see what the next activity is that I highlighted. I do not know the answer to your questions about the +10, but I know I read that the Fuji's are supposed to be better for underwater because they pick up more blues and greens. There was a thread about it a few weeks ago.

MJ

[snelsonbrown]

Hello there - I know you are all getting super excited about your trip and everyone is making sure that nothing is forgotten - Now what I wanted to share with each of you that if you are interested in getting some information about Key West plus where you get discounts etc, all you have to do is email me at snelsonbrown@aol.com and let me know.
Meanwhile have a safe trip down here and if you find you are in need of help, don't hesitate to call the shop or my cell phone ok.
Always
Shirley

[mmouse37]

Hi Shirley....our group is going to be down in Cocoa Beach the whole day on the 2nd. We should arrive about 11:00 am. I would love to stop in and pick up some info about Key West discounts, etc, but more importantly would just love to meet you!!!!

I am taking your store address and phone # with me so I can stop by on the 2nd.

Looking forward to it.

MJ

[mmouse37]

Anyone intested in taking bubbles along for sailaway party....I just got back from A.C. Moore (craft store) and they had two boxes of the mini bubbles (for weddings, but the bottle is just plain white) for only $5.00. They are usually $5.99 per box. Each box has 24 bottles in it. Non-Toxic and will not stain (according to the box). The wand is located in the cap so no worry about kids (or adults) losing the wand. They were located in the wedding section of the store. I doubt I will need both boxes, but will bring the one.

MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

Shirley - Just ordered a tropical arrangement for my parents from your shop today. Can't wait to see it all week long in their stateroom. I also just set them up with tandem parasailing on Key West. Know of any good snorkeling locations that they can go to after their parasail?

Nicole

[snelsonbrown]

Nicole and MJ- I have business cards from Key Cat of Key West which is located right there at Mallory Square and they have everything that has to do with water sports and water tours- they will give discounts to anyone that has their business card that I have signed (this is in order to keep from just anyone getting discounts) and I know for a fact it is a good discount - Shelly and Ahab are not only very honorable, but responsible and trustworthy - when I was in Key West, I took it upon myself to check out places before I would recommend them - I know that businesses in KW close and open faster than I can change my mind and I wouldn't want anyone to have hard feelings about my hometown - anyhow you can email me if you want any of these coupons/pamplets etc.
I would feel very honored if anyone would like to stop at the shop - (we are exalty 1 and 1/4 mile South of the Radisson on the East side - the strip mall is called Beach Plaza.) Stop by and have a soft drink and chat with me.
Hugsssssss to each and all.
Love
Shirley

Nicole thank you for the order sweetie - Joanne told me you had called.

[tinkerbell4two]

I can't believe how excited I'm getting.:bounce:

How wrinkled will my clothes be if I'm already packed? The Pack-mates have worked great and I think we will be able to take one less peice of luggage. Hurray! Each days outfits for the DDs are in their own zip lock baggy to make things simple and organized.
DH is thinking of renting shoes for the formal nights since he has such big feet (size 13). As it is we will be taking three pairs of shoes for him which will take up a large part of one bag - no fooling. Has anyone rented shoes from the tuxedo place? Are formal shoes really necessary? DH is planning on wearing a nice dark blazer, dark olive pants, white button up shirt and tie for formal dinners. I think dress shoes are necessary, but who really looks at men's shoes? He is planning on bringing a pair of brown loafers for all dinners.
Last question - Is anyone taking water shoes for the kids?

8 days until we leave !!!

Nicole

[MCazer]

Nicole,

Weird as this sounds, my husband is also a size 13, and I always try to pack my shoes inside of his to save space, if yours won't fit, I bet children's shoes do!

And, yes, I think dress shoes would be approriate for formal night.

8 more day for us too. Actually in 8 days we will be sitting at the Radisson, possible swimming.

[mmouse37]

Just came across a thread about taking someone else's child along and I am glad I did. They mentioned things that I had not thought of like notarized letter with both parents signature to allow me to take him of the country and to provide medical assistance if needed. Also they mentioned getting a copy of his insurance card.

This board is great for all kinds of info!!! The kids got all excited when I told them that they had to packed and ready by this time next week. I want to load the car next Thursday night so all we have to do is roll out of bed at 4 am to catch our flight on Friday.

I made cute little labels for the mini bubble bottles with the date and Disney Magic and Western Caribbean with the DCL logo!!!

Went shopping for hubby today. Not bad, he liked about 3/4 of what I bought. Back tomorrow to return what he didn't like. He has absolutely no time to do anything (working 16 hours per day, 7 days a week). He really need this vacation!!!

MJ:Pinkbounc

[tinkerbell4two]

I agree. These boards are full of great information. Each day I always find new information that I need for the cruise.

I had to make sure that we have enough room in our mini-van for my families' bags and my parent's bags. So, I'm packed. Yes, I could have checked to see that the bags fit in the car before they had clothes in them, but what's the fun in that. Turns out that we will only have to check on two and carry on three bags plus the strollers and one toddler. DS 3 1/2 says she is a big girl and demands to do everything herself which include rolling her own luggage. So, I'm not listing her as another item. ha-ha

We are planning to get to the airport right when they open at 5 am. I didn't know that international airports closed at night. They still request we arrive 2 hours early before our flight. So, the best that we can do is 1 1/2 hours early; our flight leaves at 6:30

MJ- I know how it is to prepare everything. DH got sick about a month ago with strep and was out of work for a week which ate up vacation days that he was planning to take off before and after the cruise. C'est la vie. Just think how much you both deserve this cruise. :D

Nicole

[snelsonbrown]

Hey there,
Can I ask a question that may seem dumb but is this the cruise where a number of young men with their families from the NY police/fire department are going? (which is the first break from 9-11)
I just was interested in finding out.
Thanks a bunch
Love
Shirley

[mmouse37]

Yes, Shirley...that would be our group....three families travelling and all the hubbies are Port Authority Police of NY & NJ and this is their first vacation since 9/11. They lost 37 of their fellow Port Authority officers on 9/11 and really need the downtime. They usually get 6 weeks off per year, but all vacations have been suspended except for one week.

What better way to relax and wind down than on DCL!!!! Thanks for asking.

MJ

[Mtdewbuzz]

The anticipation for this trip is becoming unbearable, and I still have a week to go!!! Just knowing that I will not be at work this time next week & will be getting on to a plane later that same day is making me downright giddy!! :crazy:

I had no luck finding a Disney shirt that I liked, so I don't know what I'll be wearing the first day on the boat. If I decide sometime soon, I'll let you guys know so you can identify me.

I did buy an "Elvis Stitch" beanie from Disney Store to take with me on the trip. He's going to be our mascot/good luck charm, so the trip goes well. Plus, we're going to leave him in the room to see if room service does anything fun with/to him like we have heard Disney is notorious for! :D

This weekend, I fill out my documents & start getting clothes and other items together. I'll finish up on Friday, which is why I took that day off...

[ashlle]

Sorry to jump in on this so late, but we've just been doing research and found this site. Wow, are you guys prepared.

Anyhow. My name is Ashley, and my family and I are going on the Aug. 3 Western Caribbean cruise, courtesy of Make-a-Wish. (My sister had a kidney transplant almost three years ago, and her doctors nominated her for Make-a-Wish. She decided to wish for a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise, and so here we are!) My sister is 15, I'm 18, and my mom and dad are 46 and 47, respectively.

It's kind of weird going with Make-a-Wish, because they're doing everything for us, so we have no idea which room we're in, what activities they may pre-schedule us for, etc etc. You guys all know where and what and when!

This is our first cruise, and reading these posts have been very informative, but I do have a question. Are there any activities geared especially towards young adults in the 18-20 range? It appears that I'm kind of cut out from all the teen activities, so I was kind of curious.

Anyhow. Thanks for any information!



Ashley

[mmouse37]

Hi Ashley....welcome to the DIS and welcome to the Aug 3rd thread!!!!!

I think it is wonderful that Make a Wish could fulfill your sisters wish!!! She won't be disappointed about picking a disney cruise. This will be our 6th.

I have a daughter who is also 18 travelling with another friend who is 17. They plan on sunning by the pool and just basically relaxing. My daughter also plans on going to the clubs at night for the adult entertainment (not how it sounds!!!). They have a time warp party with music from the 60's-80's. Another night they have rock and roll party with music from the 50's...they are alot of fun.

If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to ask them. There are no dumb questions!!!

MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

Here is the list that I've compiled so far for our August 3rd Cruise:

BarbaraB - 40, DH(42), DD(13), DD (4 1/2) and DS (4 1/2)
Mmouse37 - 43, DH(45), DD(18), DS(17), DSF(17)(son's friend),
DD(14) - 16 in entire party
Tiggeress - 16, 13,11 & 8
Mtdewbuzz - 26, DW(27), friend (26)
Jamie - 40, DH(40), 13, 10 1/2
Mcazer 38, DH(38), DD(6), DS(4)
Buzzlver - 35, DH, DD, DD
Rewhitingjr - Dad(46), DD(17)
Tinkerbell4two - 32, DH(32), DD(3 1/2), DD(1 1/2) - 14 in party
NancyZ - 35, DH(38), DS(5), DS(3 1/2)
Blu eyz 235 - DW, DH, DS(18), DD(16)
Jhondy - DD(16), DW, DH, DS(16), DS(10), DS(22) & Fiance(22)
Soccernaccall - 15, 13
ExecuMom - 36, DH(37), DS(13), DS (9 1/2)
Alternativekid20 - 14 w/parents
Ashlle - DD(18), DD(15), parents 46&47
Philncat - DH(48), DD(20), DS(17) - 11 in party

Special Occasions:
Make-a-Wish for Ashlle's sister
NY & NJ Police Officers 1st vacation since 9/11 (mmouse37 group)
40th Wedding Anniversary (tinkerbell4two and NancyZ group)

Please let me know if you would like for me to edit this list or remove your party. Also, let us know if you have a special occasion in your party that we can help celebrate.

Many of us will be meeting on the 10th deck at cast-off.
Please join us so that we can all put faces to the names.

[Mtdewbuzz]

Um, a slight correction...

Mtdewbuzz - 26, DW(27), friend (26)

Obviously, I need to let some more of my manliness show through! ::scratches self & spits::

[Jamie]

We leave for WDW tomorrow morning at 0330 (yes, that's am). We're down to the final packing and cleaning. My stomach is in knots worrying about what we've forgot to take or do. One thing I almost forgot was to send an itinerary out to a few family members. We're staying in several places and realized no one really knew how to contact us. Anyway, you all have been a weath of information and I'll look forward to meeting some of you on the cruise or at the Radisson. Jareen aka Jamie

[mmouse37]

Hi...another slight correction here....our group has the Port Authority of NY & NJ Police Officers, not firefighters.

The two other families we are travelling with have:

DH & DW (40's), DD17, DD15, DS8 plus DH's brother (30 ish)

DH & DW (40's), DS15, DS7, DD6


I am getting very excited!!!! I am going to fill out the docs today.

As a surprise for my DD18's graduation, I am having a video montage put together of her life from birth through H.S. graduation. Trying to pick out the background songs was tough, I kept getting misty!! I was trying to figure out how best to present it to her and it dawned on me.....I will try to arrange to show it to her while onboard the Disney Magic!!!! Along with all the other photos I have gathered, there are several pictures of her on the Disney Magic from our previous 5 DCL cruises, so it's kind of fitting to show it to her onboard!

I contacted the DCL group dept. and they were great. We have it arranged to show on the big screen of the ESPN's sport bar on Sunday from 10:30-11:30 am, just as we are pulling into Key West. I hope she likes it and doesn't get embarrassed!!! We are going to have coffee, juice and danish and make it a little private celebration!!! I am not even telling my hubby as I want to surprise him also. We talked about doing this for awhile and he thinks I forgot to have the video made, but I didn't!!!

Any suggestions on how on I can get her up there to the ESPN club?. I am telling the other two families about it ahead of time so that won't be problem. I was thinking of having DCL hand write a little bogus invitation about being invited to something up there.

MJ

[BarbaraB]

Well, I am finally getting down to some serious packing and need an opinion on something. :confused: :confused:


I have a set of matching outfits for my 4 yr old twins. A sundress for my DD and matching shirt/shorts for my DS. I know DCL requests no shorts at dinner, but I would love to pack these for them to wear on a casual dinner nite. (they are really cute) Do you think this is too inappropriate??

MJ What a great idea for your daughter!!! I think she will love it

[MCazer]

I don't think there should be a problem with the shorts outfit I say go ahead and pack them, should make for some really cute photos!

[ExecuMom]

Barbara B - I don't think it will be a problem either. On our last Magic Cruise both of my boys wore nice kaki shorts and polo shirts to dinner and they looked fine. It was never a problem.

As I sit hear typing, I am surrounded by suitcases and piles of clothes which I'm going to pack today. I can't believe it's finally here!!

:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[BarbaraB]

MCazer & ExecuMom -- Thanks for the reassurance! I will definitely pack them.

I think I have got a case of "pre-vacation jitters"!!! My mind is spinning with thoughts of packing, making planes, getting rental cars, hoping my kids behave (LOL), etc. The funny thing is that I know that as soon as we leave the house and head to the airport I will be fine. Somehow this is always the most stressful part of the trip for me--two days before we even leave!!!

Looking forward to seeing everyone on the ship!!

[Mtdewbuzz]

:confused: Tinkerbell edited mmouse's correction, and not mine. :( I'm seriously not feeling the love over here. ;)

[mmouse37]

tinkerbell.....please correct Mtdewbuzz's entry. We don't want him not feeling the love!!!! We want everyone on 8/3 to be happy!!! It coming closer.

I am also getting pre-cruise jitters. Tonight I bought my DS17 a suit!!! He finally relented and let me take him shopping. I think he was surprised how great he looked in it. But now I have to go have it hemmed this week (the store tailor was ill). One more thing to do!!!

The kids are really getting excited also. Made copies of all of our passports, medical cards. Got the letter notarzied to allow us to take our DSF with us on vacation.

I was worried after reading about the pot smoking incident onboard last week. Will have to show it to all the teens. Boy was he lucky they didn't come down harder on him.

MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

I did, I did....except that I didn't change the DH to a DW..."Sorry, my fault" (for those PB&J Otter fans). LOVE, LOVE, LOVE...do you feel it? :p

MJ- I think that is such a great idea for your daughter. Now I'm inspired to do something similar for my parents, but I've decided to decorate their room instead and give them a nifty little gift each day on the cruise. Luckily twinkle lights, tulle and decor haven't taken up much in our bags.
Now, DH's shoes.... that's another matter, but I did what was suggested to fit my shoes in his and have done the same for my DDs' shoes.
We read thru the DCL brochure and watched the video and DD keeps asking,"Can we go NOW". DH is finally getting excited.

Nicole :cool:

[mmouse37]

MY DS17 finally let me get him some dress clothes but now I have to try and fit his size 13 dress shoes into his suitcase!!! I guess I will stuff socks and stuff into them.

Tinkerbell...that is great idea for your parents, a gift a day, they will be so pleased!!!!

MJ

[philncat]

We'll be there too!! My family includes H- 48, DD 20, DS 17, Mom and Dad (very young 70's), Brother's family which includes son 10 and twins (boy and girl) 4-1/2. Eleven in all. Can't wait to meet you all. I still need to get my DS17 some clothes...maybe today we can find the time.
Cat

[tinkerbell4two]

philncat - sorry that I missed your listing. It's been updated.

Looks like we will have a good chance of Thunderstorms on Key West. I wonder if we should cancel our waverunner tour?

nicole

[mmouse37]

Nicole.....It looks like isolated t-storms all week there. Let's just hope they are isolated!!! I doubt it will be a complete wash out.

MJ

[BarbaraB]

Well, we are all packed!! Ready to leave tomorrow morning. I hope everyone has a safe and not too stressed trip to Port Canaveral!!!

See ya there!!

[mmouse37]

Hi Barbara......I was just going to post to ask who was leaving the earliest in the week for vacation....I think you are the winner!!!! Have a wonderful start to your vacation and we'll see you on Deck 10 for sailaway!!!!

You leave tomorrow, we leave Friday.....anybody leaving Thursday?

MJ

[tinkerbell4two]

My sister's family is leaving late Thursday and catching the red-eye to MCO. They will get in at 6:30 am on Friday. We will leave Friday as well and will get in around 5:30 pm.
Each morning DH wakes me up with the disney video blairing. I think he is getting more excited than me.

All packed...ready to go...just need to clean the house!

Nicole

[mmouse37]

Wow, all the way back on page 5...shame, shame. Well this will probably be my last post, unless I get a chance to check tonight. Trying to get everyone packed and ready to go for our 4am departure on Friday.

Good luck to everyone and hope to see many of you by the pool at the Radisson.

MJ

[Mtdewbuzz]

We'll be getting into MCO around 11-something PM, so we won't even be at the Radisson until around 12:30-1 AM. So, what time should we be at the port/terminal so we're not waiting in line forever??

I have a feeling I'm not going to be able to sleep very well the next two nights- I'm getting so excited!!! It's like X-Mas Eve for a little kid! :jester:

[MCazer]

We leave tomorrow also on a 6:30am flight. We should arrive around noon and will get our car and head for the Radisson.

I can't believe its here already! Woo Hoo!

BTW, for anyone at the Radisson, I have red hair and my husband is 6'2" with a mustache, and we have a 6 year old daughter and 4 yr old son!

Bye for Now!

[ExecuMom]

:p :mad: :bounce:

We are packed and ready to roll!! I can't believe it's finally here! It felt great to leave the office behind for 10 whole days for our fabulous DCL vacation!!!

We fly out of Philly at 8:10 tomorrow night and get in around 10:45. Staying at the airport Hyatt, and hope to catch the first Disney bus to the terminal.

Wishing everyone a safe trip and a fabulous cruise!!

TTFN...

Michele:smooth:

[mmouse37]

Hi Again....mtdewbuzz....we plan on getting to the terminal between 10:15 and 10:30. I want to drop most of us and the luggage off curbside and then return the cars and take shuttle back.

See you all there!!!! We will be large party of 17 at the pool at the Radisson!!!

MJ

[nancyz]

We are all packed also!!! The whole family is SO SO Excited!!!


Execumom, I know how good it felt to leave the office behind for 10 days!! I'm glad there is no way to reach me for the next 10 days.


Our flight leaves around 1:30pm tomorrow, so we will be getting in around 9:30pm.

See you all on Saturday!!

Nancy

[tecdavidt]

Just wanted to tell all of you Bon Voyage on your Aug. 4th cruise. We were suppose to be sailing with you but changed our cruise date to last March. This will be the first Aug. with no Disney cruise in 4 years! Seems strange not to go. I will be checking the DIS for any reports you may post during the cruise. Enjoy! Dave and Kathy

[mmouse37]

Thanks Tecdavidt.....

MJ

[DuncanLL]

Have a great trip everyone! Can't wait to hear all about it when you return.

Only 98 more days for us!

Linda

[Mtdewbuzz]

Man, what a great time we had! I hated leaving it all behind. :(

I'll be trying to get my trip report up this week!! I still have to write the other half of it! :D

[tinkerbell4two]

We are finally back from our cruise and wdw-post trip. We had a cancelled flight on Tuesday due to weather and ended up getting home a day later which was yesterday. DH and I thought we would be Disneyed out, but we realy had a great time and do did the kids. I wish I had met more of you, but the weather prevented us from meeting on deck 10 and so we only met MJ and her family in line in port. Any news about the Cuban Refugies?

Nicole