Double Dip with 2 Ships - 11/22-11/29

[love2travel]

I will give you a little background. This trip was our 4th trip on DCL.

The cast of characters are:

Myself, DH and DD

We were also travelling with our dear dear friends Cheysdad and family and Suzymouse and Family. We met each other on DCL a few years ago and have become great friends.

Friday - 11/21 - We dropped DD off at school, we figured she could get a 1/2 day in before we had to leave for the airport in the afternoon. Came home and finished up all of the last minute details and before I knew it was time to pick DD up from school. Got home and waited for our car service to come to take us to the Philadelphia Airport. Our flight out of Philly was fine, we were very anxious to go and leave the cold snowy weather behind. Right as our plane landed we received a call from Suzymouse saying call us when you get your luggage and we'll meet you in the Hyatt lobby. All of us were staying the night at the Hyatt in the Orlando Airport. Got our luggage and met up with all of our friends. Got settled in our room, this was our first time staying at the Hyatt and I would definately stay there again. We all met up for dinner at McCoy's in the Hyatt and celebrated Suzymouse's DD's birthday.
After dinner we all called it a night, so we could prepare for our big day to board the MAGIC.

Saturday - 11/22 - Got up early and had the breakfast buffet at the Hemisphere restaurant, good food. Checked out of the hotel and went down to find our car service. I was surprising my family with a limo.....we went out to find a beautiful white stretch limo waiting for us. My DD was so excited!!
Our limo ride was wonderful, watched some TV and listened to music, very enjoyable. Arrived at the port at 9:45, stay tuned. I promise it will get more exciting as we go along.:rolleyes1 :dance3:

[love2travel]

Saturday - 11/22 - Continued

Met up with our friends and gave all of our bags to a porter and we were on our way into the terminal. Up the escalator we went and the terminal was pretty much empty. Got into the line for check-in, waited a few minutes for the employees to arrive. As we were waiting in line we spotted a few lime green shirts and were trying to figure out who everybody was. Got checked-in and were given our laynards and boarding card #2 :banana: :cool1: :thumbsup2. Hung out in the terminal, took pictures and met up with a few DIS members. Boarding began around 11:45 and we were on our way to a glorious week!!! As we were announced our DD and Cheysdad DD asked the CM to announce it was Suzymouse's DD's birthday. It was the first of our many special moments and memories. We went straight to Rockin Bar D to get our Palo reservations, mission accomplished. Went up to Topsiders for lunch and found some great tables outside and enjoyed our lunch. It was quite the chilly day in Florida, we all had our sweatshirts on, but it definately beat the snow and 30 degrees we left back in NJ. After lunch it was time to check out our room, we were in room 2560. We usually have room 2554 but a week before the cruise they changed it to 2560, only 3 doors down so it didn't matter. More to come tomorrow, stay tuned.

[BelleEm2]

So glad you're starting this! We were on this cruise as well. It was absolutely wonderful. I can't believe it's been two weeks already.

[lavawalker]

I was on this cruise too..... anxious to read the rest of your report!

[lexandme]

Looking forward to the rest Teresa! Don't leave out any details!:lmao:
I bookmarked the page!!!

Judy

[Suzy Mouse]

HEY TERESA!!!!

So glad you finally started your trip report! I can't wait to start reliving the trip all over again!!

I loved getting to the terminal early and starting to meet our new friends!! Plus we finally got to hook up again with Jason and his HUGE crew!!!

It was a beautiful day and a beautiful trip!

More Teresa!! MORE!!!popcorn::

[jsfein]

Hey Teresa - great to see a trip report from our sailing. I was hoping to do one myself, but took no notes and just haven't found the time ... but I'm not ruling it out yet. I look forward to reading more.

Sue -- saw some Bat Mitzvah photos on Facebook ... hope it was a great time. Mazel Tov!!

J

[love2travel]

Some days I took better notes than others, so just bear with me. I think maybe some days I drank more than others and I just don't remember:rotfl2:.

Anyway, Saturday Continued.....

Our room 2560 - Cat. 9, it was a fine location, right near the mid ship elevators, only drawback was some noise at night, but no big deal.
Rooms were ready around 1:30ish. Went to our room to find the gift baskets that I had ordered from the Perfect Gift. I ordered one for my family and 2 other baskets, one for Suzymouse and family and one for Cheysdad and family. We just wanted to say thank you to them for being our friends and if it wasn't for DCL we wouldn't have never met!!! Thanks DCL!!! Shirley makes wonderful baskets and when you chat with her on the phone, it's like you have known her forever, she is a great women! Thanks Shirley!! We delivered the baskets to our friends and then it was almost time for our DIS Meet. Went to Studio Sea for our meet.....now I have to say I didn't write down everybody's name that I met, so if I leave you out it's not on purpose, so please forgive me. Thanks to Judy for planning the meet. The meet was very nice and we did the grab bag. My DD was thrilled with her grab bag gift, she got a Webkins, she says Thank You!!! At the meet I met up with Judy (lexandme), Happy4Disney, CruiseCrazy (Michelle) Susan (DisneyPoor), Stacie, Practically Perfect, icemanpad (Chuck) and Seadooken's DW. Ken, I'm sorry I never got to meet you. I think a good time was had by all, but I think some people were missing :rolleyes1. After the meet we came back to our room to find our luggage had arrived, quickly started unpacking before the lifeboat drill. Lifeboat drill was painless and then went up to deck 9 for the Sailaway Party. As we arrived on Deck 9, we stopped for our first of many drinks of the week, well not DH, he had Diet Soda. He is diabetic and has to limit his drinking. After the sailaway party, we went back and prepared for our first dinner. Our dining roation was LAPPLAP. We went to Lumiere's and found our table. It was great they seated all 12 of us together.
We met our server Cyprian from India and our assistant server Mikaela from Austria. They were a great team, more on them as the week goes on.
Sorry, I didn't take notes on what we ate. I knew I should have carried my notebook with me everywhere but I didn't. But, I can tell you that everything was delish!!!:woohoo: DH says next cruise we should just photograph the menu each night then when we get home we can just look at it and remember what we ate, not a bad idea. He has a good one every now and again :rotfl2:. After dinner, we were all pretty wiped so we called it a night and went back and watched TV and went to dreamland.

Coming up - Our first stop at Castaway Cay

[disneypoor]

I'm subscribing!:banana: I've been trying to decide if I should do a trip report or not. I usually take notes while we're on our cruises so I can remember what we did, but I didn't this time. It's always fun to read a trip report from a trip you were actually on.:lovestruc Can't wait to read more. It was great meeting you and so many other traveling turkeys!

Susan

[lavawalker]

I'm subscribing!:banana: I've been trying to decide if I should do a trip report or not. I usually take notes while we're on our cruises so I can remember what we did, but I didn't this time. It's always fun to read a trip report from a trip you were actually on.:lovestruc Can't wait to read more. It was great meeting you and so many other traveling turkeys!

Susan
I wish so badly that I had taken notes so I could do a report on this cruise (our first) too. Ah well, maybe reading your report will motivate me to write one, even if I don't have all the details... :rolleyes1

[Suzy Mouse]

I don't forget food!!! I had Coquielle's St Jacque.....My favorite!!!! I truly felt the food this cruise was totally DELISH!!!!

Absolutely loved my basket!!! What a total surprise and a special treat!!! I am extremely spoiled by Teresa....she should change her name to "love2spoil"!!!!

Bring on Castaway Cay!!!

[lavawalker]

I don't forget food!!! I had Coquielle's St Jacque.....My favorite!!!!

What is this dish? I was too afraid to order anything I couldn't pronounce...

[lexandme]

What is this dish? I was too afraid to order anything I couldn't pronounce...

It is wonderful - almost like a seafood potpie but better.
I remember what I ate first night - Creme Brulee and a Mickey Bar!!! I was so stuffed from dinner I could only eat his ears!:mickeybar
Judy
PS - Teresa - Keep the report coming!

[Suzy Mouse]

What is this dish? I was too afraid to order anything I couldn't pronounce...

It's my favorite scallop dish. My dh and I make it every Valentine's Day. I think ours is actually better but it was interesting to see it with a different twist.
Teresa...didn't Ken order this?

[cheysdad]

Some days I took better notes than others, so just bear with me. I think maybe some days I drank more than others and I just don't remember:rotfl2:.

Anyway, Saturday Continued.....

Our room 2560 - Cat. 9, it was a fine location, right near the mid ship elevators, only drawback was some noise at night, but no big deal.
Rooms were ready around 1:30ish. Went to our room to find the gift baskets that I had ordered from the Perfect Gift. I ordered one for my family and 2 other baskets, one for Suzymouse and family and one for Cheysdad and family. We just wanted to say thank you to them for being our friends and if it wasn't for DCL we wouldn't have never met!!! Thanks DCL!!! Shirley makes wonderful baskets and when you chat with her on the phone, it's like you have known her forever, she is a great women! Thanks Shirley!! We delivered the baskets to our friends and then it was almost time for our DIS Meet. Went to Studio Sea for our meet.....now I have to say I didn't write down everybody's name that I met, so if I leave you out it's not on purpose, so please forgive me. Thanks to Judy for planning the meet. The meet was very nice and we did the grab bag. My DD was thrilled with her grab bag gift, she got a Webkins, she says Thank You!!! At the meet I met up with Judy (lexandme), Happy4Disney, CruiseCrazy (Michelle) Susan (DisneyPoor), Stacie, Practically Perfect, icemanpad (Chuck) and Seadooken's DW. Ken, I'm sorry I never got to meet you. I think a good time was had by all, but I think some people were missing :rolleyes1. After the meet we came back to our room to find our luggage had arrived, quickly started unpacking before the lifeboat drill. Lifeboat drill was painless and then went up to deck 9 for the Sailaway Party. As we arrived on Deck 9, we stopped for our first of many drinks of the week, well not DH, he had Diet Soda. He is diabetic and has to limit his drinking. After the sailaway party, we went back and prepared for our first dinner. Our dining roation was LAPPLAP. We went to Lumiere's and found our table. It was great they seated all 12 of us together.
We met our server Cyprian from India and our assistant server Mikaela from Austria. They were a great team, more on them as the week goes on.
Sorry, I didn't take notes on what we ate. I knew I should have carried my notebook with me everywhere but I didn't. But, I can tell you that everything was delish!!!:woohoo: DH says next cruise we should just photograph the menu each night then when we get home we can just look at it and remember what we ate, not a bad idea. He has a good one every now and again :rotfl2:. After dinner, we were all pretty wiped so we called it a night and went back and watched TV and went to dreamland.

Coming up - Our first stop at Castaway Cay

Teresa
I am here and reading. Thanks again so much for the basket. As you know the Disney cruise has given us (my family) much more than just an excellent vacation. We are now very good friends with you and of course sue and howard. I think it was your hubby that said this is the family we choose to spend Thanksgiving with.
Looks like it will be carmines on the 29th, i will call today for ressies.

[lavawalker]

I remember what I ate first night - Creme Brulee and a Mickey Bar!!! I was so stuffed from dinner I could only eat his ears!!
That was the best creme brulee I've had. Oh, and I had to order Mickey Bars from room service once, only because I learned from the Disboards that I could do that even though they weren't on the room service menu! Yum!!!:thumbsup2

[love2travel]

Thanks to everybody, you all helped me out. I remember now, I had scallops and creme brulee and it was yummy.

[lexandme]

Hi Mike! How are the newlyweds?:bride:
Wish I was closer to Jersey/NY and could visit.
The creme brulee on the ship is very good. The very best, greatest creme brulee (in my opinion) is at Coral Reef ( or as I call it, Coral Reefer) in Epcot. It's citrus creme brulee and it's worth the trip to WDW!
Our first night dinner was at AP and our poor waiter dropped a few full plates of food right behind Billy Bob. China and food flew all over. The next morning at breakfast in Parrot Cay, the waiter dropped a full glass of OJ on Billy Bob! It was like he was a target. :lmao:
Take good care and be safe in this miserable weather!:sunny: Dream of the sunshine.
Judy

[HerrQSmee]

Judy,
We were at AP that night too! You could hear the crash throughout the restaurant! It must have been something in the air because they spilled pasta next to our table.

[BelleEm2]

I was in AP on the first night as well, and I remember all of the dropping of the china! I especially remember the pasta spill. It happened right across the aisle from our table and we got a front row seat. All I could think about was how they were going to get that stain out of the carpet. :rotfl2:

[lavawalker]

I was there in AP that first night too and heard dishes crash 4 times!! It must have had something to do with how rough the seas were that night, because I didn't hear dishes crashing like that any other night when the seas were calmer...

[Suzy Mouse]

One night when one of the waiters drop some dishes, the other ones started dropping the lids to the plates....just to get the crowd going. I'm sure that was what happened in your case...

Can't wait for Carmines!!! Hmmm...what will I order??? Fried zucchini???Calamari????? I definitely think we need a Disney Store run!!!!

[lexandme]

My tan is fading........................

[cheysdad]

Hi Mike! How are the newlyweds?:bride:
Wish I was closer to Jersey/NY and could visit.
The creme brulee on the ship is very good. The very best, greatest creme brulee (in my opinion) is at Coral Reef ( or as I call it, Coral Reefer) in Epcot. It's citrus creme brulee and it's worth the trip to WDW!
Our first night dinner was at AP and our poor waiter dropped a few full plates of food right behind Billy Bob. China and food flew all over. The next morning at breakfast in Parrot Cay, the waiter dropped a full glass of OJ on Billy Bob! It was like he was a target. :lmao:
Take good care and be safe in this miserable weather!:sunny: Dream of the sunshine.
Judy

Hi Judy. We are doing just fine thanks for asking. Hey it would be nice if you could meet us up in new your as our party continues on the 29th of december.

OK teresa, start writing some more....

[lexandme]

Hi Judy. We are doing just fine thanks for asking. Hey it would be nice if you could meet us up in new your as our party continues on the 29th of december.

OK teresa, start writing some more....

Maybe I should plan a road trip this spring to visit my brother in NJ. We could all get together!:dance3:

Teresa - This is like reading a good novel, can't wait for you to post chapter 2!
Are you ready for Baltimore tomorrow? The title is ours!
Go Stillers!

[Suzy Mouse]

Judy..where does your brother live?

[love2travel]

Hi Everybody, don't get too excited....I'm only making a quick post today, between the housework, writing out Christmas cards, and going Christmas shopping, I don't think I'll will get to the next chapter today, maybe tomorrow.

Michael, can't wait for Carmine's! Judy, I am so ready for tomorrow's game, bring it on!!!

Have a good everyone and I'll be back soon.

[lexandme]

Judy..where does your brother live?

He recently moved from Pitman to Norristown. (Is that anywhere near you guys?)I've never been to see him since he moved. My sister used to live in Colt's Neck and I would visit her every chance I got. We would hang out in Asbury Park a lot. That was back in the 70's when Springsteen and Southside Johnny were just really getting started.

Finally got our tree up last night. I have to put the monorail ("Please stand clear of the doors....") up today.
Have a great day.
Make good choices. Be kind.
GO STILLERS!

Judyºoº

[Suzy Mouse]

Judy....Colts neck is 40 minutes from here. I have no idea where Norristown is. Funny thing...I work with the trumpet player from Southside Johnny.

[love2travel]

Sunday 11/23 - Our first stop at Castaway Cay

We got up and had breakfast at Topsiders. Topsiders became a daily thing for us. We like it there, something for everyone. Shortly after breakfast we made our way to paradise. We relaxed on the beach while the kiddos played in the tropical blue water. Cheysdad and his DD went on the Eco Tour (Jetski) and had a blast. He definately recommends it and Suzymouse and her DD went Parasailing, it was a birthday present for her DD. They loved it. We had at lunch at Cookies BBQ, good as always and after lunch we all had reservations at Castaway Ray's for the stingray adventure. Cheysdad and family had done the stingray adventure back in '06 and convinced us all to join them this time. We all enjoyed it very much, those stingrays know when people get in the water it's time to eat. They were very gentle creatures. We had done Stingray City in Grand Caymen a few years ago and it was quite overwhelming, but Castaway Ray's was a great experience. After our stingray adventure we went back and enjoyed our tropical oasis. Sadly, we had to make our way back to the ship, they wouldn't let us stay on the island. Sunday night our dinner was in Animator's and unfortunately I don't remember what we ate, but it was delish. Suzymouse, can you help me out with what we ate? After dinner the girls went to do some pin trading and the three ladies, myself, Suzymouse and Cheysdad DW (Cathe) went walking around to see everyone's FE's. Judy I have to say I think your FE takes 1st place, it was really cool :thumbsup2. As we were walking around Cathe decided to stop at every door that had a dry erase board on it and sign the board "Hi from the 3 ladies". I have to say we had quite an amusing walk around looking at FE's. I can't remember what we did after our walk, but stayed tuned.

[love2travel]

He recently moved from Pitman to Norristown. (Is that anywhere near you guys?)I've never been to see him since he moved. My sister used to live in Colt's Neck and I would visit her every chance I got. We would hang out in Asbury Park a lot. That was back in the 70's when Springsteen and Southside Johnny were just really getting started.

Finally got our tree up last night. I have to put the monorail ("Please stand clear of the doors....") up today.
Have a great day.
Make good choices. Be kind.
GO STILLERS!

Judyºoº

Judy, is it Norristown or Morristown. Norristown is in PA, Morristown is in NJ.

HERE WE GO STEELERS, HERE WE GO!!!!!!! My DD is wearing the Steeler earrings today, thank you!!

Suzymouse, tell DS that I am wearing my Steelers bracelet today, thank you!!

GO STEELERS!!!!

[Suzy Mouse]

Teresa...I believe it was filet mignon with scallops. I checked out my pictures and saw that Cyprian was cutting the kids' food and that was what was on my plate. I think some people left early to go to the show and we ate the peanut butter/chocolate pie for dessert! After walking around...which was hysterical!!!!...we met up with the guys and watched football on the big screen...Saints vs Packers!!! Eating pizza and watching the Saints destroy the Packers was our evening!!!
See...it pays to take 1000 pictures!! (It still wasn't enough!!!)

Glad you're enjoying the bracelet!

[Suzy Mouse]

ps...we also did the white backdrop photo Sunday night! Those pictures came out GORGEOUS!!!! Did you put yours up yet??

[lexandme]

Suzy - It must be Morristown because it's in NJ not Pa. He moved from mainline Philly to NJ about 6 years ago. I loved going to Colt's Neck. There was a cider mill/apple farm near there that we used to go to.
Shut Up!!! You work with SSJ's trumpet player!!! Tell him the Jukes are all over my Ipod. Billy Bob's and my song is SSJ version of "Fever". I have seen the Jukes in concert about a gagillion times!

Teresa - Stiller's did it! This town will be rockin' now! If you need anything Stiller's - let me know! When we win the Super Bowl, yinz guys think about comin' into town for the big show!

Judy

[love2travel]

ps...we also did the white backdrop photo Sunday night! Those pictures came out GORGEOUS!!!! Did you put yours up yet??


You are right, our whole big clan got a picture together with the white background. We all wore khaki, black and white. It did come out really nice.
No I don't have it up yet, but hopefully soon. I need to go out and buy lots of frames and start putting up all those pictures I bought. I think I have 20 some pictures that I bought from shutters. Can you say SUCKER, I've got it written all over my face.

Judy, what an awesome WIN that was yesterday, WOW!!!!

[Suzy Mouse]

Teresa....LOVED your holiday card!!! Mine will be in the mail shortly!

[HerrQSmee]

We put a picture of us on Castaway Cay on our cards this year and was wishing I was back there as it was quite cold and wet here this week!

[love2travel]

Suzymouse and Cheysdad.......got both of your cards yesterday, very nice!

I will try and get to some more of my report this weekend.

[Suzy Mouse]

Glad to see Michael and company went the Castaway picture! Beautiful!!! Teresa....how come you didn't go with yours????;)

[skoul]

posting just so i can PM

[DisVillainFan]

Dad (me) says a little too much skin on my daughter for a holiday card.:scared:

[Suzy Mouse]

I agree with you!! but it was a GORGEOUS picture!! She's absolutely BEAUTIFUL!!!!

[Suzy Mouse]

Some music while we wait for more....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6RGcYlMNdA&feature=related

and my favorite...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h24_zoqu4_Q

:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:
:cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

[lexandme]

SUZY- Thanks for the Cupid Shuffle! I never knew the name of the song but now I have it downloaded on my IPOD. I'll listen to it on the bus, close my eyes and see all of you on deck 9 gettin' down!!!
TERESA - ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL! 1:00 on CBS - BE THERE and watch some Stillers kick some Titans booty. I've got to hustle and get my groceries before the game starts.
Be safe everyone!
Judy

[love2travel]

DisVillainFan (DH) here, yes we are ready, getting the Buffalo wings ordered to pick up at 1230 pm, my best friends house at 1245. Kick Off. GO-GO Steelers:cool1:

[Suzy Mouse]

Sorry about your loss guys.... Let's look forward to the playoffs!

By the way... Rutgers is playing on the 29th...guess Howard's missing the game!:scared1:

[lexandme]

That was a terrible loss. We can do much better than that!
Did you see the Titan's stompin' on the Terrible Towel after the game? NOBODY stomps a Terrible Towel!!! We'll take it out on the Brownies next Sunday!!:cheer2:

[lexandme]

Suzanne and Howard - I forgot to wish you a Happy Hanukkah!:wave:

Judy ºoº

[Suzy Mouse]

Thanks Judy!!
Where is everyone???:confused3

[lexandme]

Thanks Judy!!
Where is everyone???:confused3


I don't know! I was wondering that myself. Perhaps everyone's busy with the holidays and they'll all be back after the new year?
I found my journal that I wrote on the trip. It's kinda boring (except the parts where Tim and I get mad at each other!)but I'm planning on posting it. Maybe I can start it today.
In case I don't - Happy Holidays to all. I hope Santa:santa: is good to you and brings you all a Cat. 4 Baltic Cruise!!!!:lmao:

Judy ºoº

[love2travel]

Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas to all our DIS friends. I've been so busy trying to get everything ready I haven't had a chance to finish my report but I promise I will be back. I'm off from work until Jan. 5th, so I'll have time to work on it.

Hope everyone has a great holiday and stay safe!!!

[lexandme]

Anyone get that cruise for Christmas?
Suzanne - You'll be happy to hear that I got a new digital camera!!!:banana: It's great to be in the 21st century and no longer have to use film.:lmao:
DH did some shopping in Treasure Ketch and it was great fun opening DCL gifts.
Teresa - Can't wait to hear the rest of your report.
Heinz Field;Cleveland, 1:00PM, Sunday. If they lose this one I'm going to become an Eagles fan.:sad2: :scared1:

Judy ºoº

[love2travel]

Judy, I just saw where Big Ben went out of the game with a concussion. What was Tomlin thinking when he played him, he should have started Leftwich and kept Big Ben healthy for the playoffs. Well atleast it was a win!!

Ok, anyway....I am ready to get back to my trip report, finally.

Monday, 11/24 Day at Sea

We took the kids to the character breakfast, which I have to say in my opinion was pretty lame. The adults didn't eat much because we had a reservation for Palo Brunch. We got the kids settled and we were off to Palo, when we got there we requested Annie Marie from South Africa as our server. We had the pleasure of her taking care of us on our previous cruise and she is just delightful in everyway. Palo Brunch was just fabulous, I think between all of us at the table we had a little bit of everything. It's Palo of course you have to try everything. I know I had the best Chicken Parmesan I have ever had, it melted in my mouth. I know we ordered a few different kinds of pizzas, which were wonderful. DH and I believe Cathe both had the Tilapia which they both raved about. We were seated right next to the private room and we noticed a group of DISers in the private room, we chatted with DisneyPoor briefly. Everybody enjoyed the brunch, it's Palo how can you not enjoy it. After brunch the 3 girls had appointments to get there hair braided. They decided on 3 braids each to represent the 3 friends. They looked so cute! Cathe had a reservation for wine tasting, which she said was just ok this time, not her favorite type of wines. Myself, Cheysdad and Suzymouses DH had a reservation for Tequila tasting. Last cruise me and my DH did Tequila tasting but he had to pass this time, he is diabetic and he found out last cruise that tequila and a diabetic don't mix well. He had to been seen by the ships doctor, and that was the start of my DH making changes in his life and diet and has since lost 70 pounds. Had to just give some acknowledgement to my hubby, he has worked so hard and I am so very proud of him!!!! Anyway, enough of the lovey dovey stuff......We went to tequila tasting and enjoyed it very much. The first tequila was pretty icky but it got better as you went along, or maybe that was just because we were drinking.:rotfl2: I forgot the guys name that was the moderator but he was very long winded, I just kept saying "just get to the tequila and let us drink it." After the tequila tasting we met up with everybody and went to the Adult Pool. We met a fabulous bartender Jerome at the Quiet Cove Pool Bar, as the week went on he took good care of us. Thanks Jerome!!! Some of us had a drink called Bushwacker, yes there were a few comments over that name.:rotfl2: and I believe Cheysdad and Suzymouses DH had Pineapple Mojitos. Enjoyed our time at the pool and we met up with lexandme (Judy) and I told her that I took at picture of Billy Bob at CC the day before. I was going to try and convince my friends that I cruised with Billy Bob Thornton.;) .
After the pool it was time to go back and make ourselves beautiful for Formal Night. I'll be back....just like Arnold said.

[love2travel]

Monday - Continued

I forgot to add one interesting tidbit. While we were in the adult pool Suzymouse told us that she lost one of her bras and one sock. I know it's quite strange but stay tuned more information to come.

Before dinner we took our nightly photographs. DD had her picture taken with Capt. Tom because nobody was in line with him and she felt sorry for him.:rotfl:

Dinner was in Parrot Cay, I know not the most formal restaurants but you can't have everything. Dinner was wonderful as usual and Cyprian our server was just fabulous, most nights he cut up the kids food. Once again, I'm sorry I can't remember what I had for dinner but I do remember that Cathe tried the lamb with the mint jelly, stay tuned for more comments on that tomorrow. When it was time for dessert we celebrated Suzymouses DD birthday with a wonderful cake.

After dinner we all decided to go and see the Golden Mickeys. All 3 of the girls decided to get in line on the red carpet to be interviewed by Rona Rivers. Well, guess what......they got interviewed it was really cool seeing them on the big screen and they had a great time. The show was very good as usual. Got back to our room after the show to find some really great FE gifts. The FE gifts the entire week were absolutely great and some of you DISers are really talented. Thanks for all the wonderful gifts.

Next up Tuesday - Cozumel Day

[lexandme]

I am loving this report! It's bringing back wonderful memories! Palo on Monday was great. It was some of the best food I have ever had. Especially the deserts! And the company was great too. All of the DISers in the private room, Seadooken (Ken and Mich and friends), Plutoluvsfifi (Linda and Mark) and myself and all of you guys in the main dining room. I can't remember our waitress name but she was incredible. Linda told her how much she loved the scallops and she gave her a HUGE bowl of them to take with her! I should have told her how much I loved all of the chocolate and creme brulee!
FYI -The photo of Teresa, Suzanne and I that was taken on the last morning - I bought a frame for it yesterday and it will soon be hanging in our office/Disney room!

It was very scary when Ben went down. All the talk about spinal cord injuries and then laying on the field for 15 minutes. Then when they had to unscrew his face mask because they didn't want to move his head to remove his helmet - that just about did me in. The longer the season goes on the more I dislike Tomlin. I watch his press conferences and he just gets under my skin. I didn't think he'd play many of his 1st string guys either. (Willie made it a running game didn't he!!!) Cowher had something Tomlin doesn't. (Besides spit and a chin).

Have a good day.
Make good choices.
Be kind!

Judy ºoº

[seadooken]

Teresa, Judy just tuned me in to your trip report. I can't believe we have been home for a month, and what a month it's been! I loved reading your trip report so far . . . keep it coming!! Sorry we did not get a chance to meet, I tried to get around, but it was a bit overwhelming with such a big turnout. So, what webkins did DD get:rolleyes1?

[love2travel]

Teresa, Judy just tuned me in to your trip report. I can't believe we have been home for a month, and what a month it's been! I loved reading your trip report so far . . . keep it coming!! Sorry we did not get a chance to meet, I tried to get around, but it was a bit overwhelming with such a big turnout. So, what webkins did DD get:rolleyes1?

DD got the alligator webkins, thank you.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OF OUR DIS friends. I will be back to finish up my report.

[love2travel]

Ok, so where was I?.......I think on Tuesday - Cozumel Day and Palo Dinner

We started out our day delivering our FE gifts, today was our assigned day.
Boy, you definately get your exercise delivering those gifts, from one end of the ship to other, but it was nice seeing all the different floors and areas of the ship. We had our usual breakfast at Topsiders, and of course and I know you will not be surprised, I can't remember what I had to eat for breakfast. I'm telling you next trip I am going to bring my journal with me everywhere and take notes more frequently. We met up with our friends and made our way ashore to Cozumel, the plan was just to do some shopping and then come back to the ship. Once ashore all the girls spotted evidently a new trendy purse which was made out candy wrappers and of course they just had to have one, so we made our way around town until we could find the best deal. DH was not successfully in his haggling this time in Cozumel, I guess you can blame it on the bad economy:rotfl2: He did stop to look at some cigars and the merchant was trying to convince him to buy some and my DH said have to "check with the boss" and the merchant stated you can't tell me that your wife is the boss and my DH stated "of course she is" and the merchant said some type of comment about "let me take you in the back and let you meet my sister". I don't think so........:scared1: DH thought it was a really funny statement and had to share it with the other men. I didn't find it so funny. I guess it's a guy thing. :rotfl: and NO DH didn't go in the back and meet the sister....We did some other little trinket shopping and we also stopped at a stand where they made bracelets out of thread. They had all kinds of bracelets from ones with just your name, to ones with your favorite sports team on it. Suzymouses DS bought me a black and gold bracelet that says STEELERS on it, I love it.....thanks little dude!!! I also believe that while I was looking in another store DH and our friends stopped for a sample of tequila, which they told me was pretty tasty. Stopped at a few more shops before we made our way back to the ship for lunch. After lunch we made our way to the adult pool and the bar to meet up with our new favorite bartender Jerome. Todays drink of the day was a Pineapple Mojito, so Cheysdad and Suzymouses DH had a few of the specials, while I think I had a few Bushwackers :rotfl2:.
While we were all in the adult pool, we were discussing last nights dinner choices and Cathe was talking about trying the lamb dish and my DH said "did you have with the mint jelly" and Cathe said of my gosh yes it I had it with the "Scope Jelly" :rotfl:. She said she thought it tasted like mouthwash.:rotfl2: Suzymouse also advised us that she hadn't found her lost bra or sock, but she had checked at lost and found. I can just see the CM's face, when she put in that request, and also the questions, can you describe the lost bra, what color was it?, how big was it or how small was it?.:rotfl: :rotfl2: :woohoo: :dance3:. I love you Suzymouse!!! After our relaxing time in the adult pool, it was time to get ready for dinner. Tonight was our dinner at Palo, can't wait!!!! We took our DD to dinner and left her with our friends, we had a reservation first and then our friends reservations were a little later. So the plan was they would take the kids to dinner and then get them to the clubs and such and then when we were done dinner we would pick them up. The planned work out marvelously!!! We arrived at Palo and had requested Annie Marie as our server again. She is so fabulous, we just wish we could have brought her home with us. I couldn't decide what kind of cocktail to order so she suggested the Pomegrante Cosmo, oh my gosh, it was to die for, LOVED IT!!!! DH splurged with a glass of sparkling wine, he really enjoyed it. I started with the calamari, which was wonderful. DH had some type of salmon appetizer, which he really enjoyed. DH had the lamb for dinner which he said melted in his mouth and once again I don't know what I had but it was terrific. For dessert I had the Choc. Souffle and tiramisu and Annie Marie twisted my arm and made me order a dessert cocktail, a Toblerone Martini, all I can say is WOW!!!! I was feeling no pain when I left there it was fabulous. Our dear friends came in while we were there and were seated right next to us because they had requested Annie Marie as well. We were all trying to act like we didn't know each other, since we were there for a romantic evening :woohoo:. After Palo, I don't remember what else happened that evening but I do know that the cocktails were :thumbsup2. Coming up Wednesday - Grand Caymen.

[seadooken]

Oh Teresa, thanks for keeping this going! Sounds like you guys had a great time in Cozumel.

[cheysdad]

Nice job Teresa.
Hope you guys are all feeling better. Of course I had to go home from our trip to NYC and order Chey the unlimited text package...

[lexandme]

I am loving it!!!!
Keep it going...
I promise I am going to post my journal as soon as I can!

Judy ºoº

(Pssst - Go Stillers!):banana:

[DisVillainFan]

Yeah Michael, we are all up and running now. Just to let you know, I filed for the disability, the insurance may fight it, but I'll try. Either way it's March 1st and I'm done.:cool1: ::cop: :banana:

[love2travel]

Are you ready for some football, oh sorry I mean trip report. I have football on my mind. GO STEELERS!!!!!!

Wednesday - Grand Caymen - Celebrating all Around

Today was a very special day, it was Suzymouses DH birthday and Cheysdad and his wife (Cathe) are renewing there wedding vows (15 years) on the beach in Grand Caymen.

We had our usually breakfast at Topsiders. I think it was while we were at breakfast and Christian (the CD) came over the loud speaker and announced that we were going to be delayed getting into Grand Caymen. We all had some slight panic because we were all to be off the ship with Cheysdad and our big group to meet up with Wedding Coordinator in Grand Caymen and he had a set time to meet her. He went down to Guest Services and explained and he met up with one of the officers, I believe her name was Vanessa, very nice lady. She kept saying to him don't worry everything will be fine and of course Disney came through with flying colors. We all met up in the lobby and as soon as the 1st tender was available to go ashore, Vanessa made sure that the wedding party and all the guest were on the tender first. It was true Disney Style!!!:woohoo: :worship: It also made everybody feel really special. We arrived on Grand Caymen and we met up with the wedding coordinator (Joy) and she arranged for all of us to go in a small van while she took the wedding party in her van to Governers Beach where the vow renewal would take place. We arrived at Governers Beach and what a sight, it was absolutely beautiful. I haven't seen a beach in Grand Caymen that is not gorgeous. It was time for the renewal to take place, it was such a special event and we were truly blessed to be part of it, thanks Cheysdad and family for inviting us:grouphug:. I had the pleasure of signing the wedding certificate along with Suzymouse and Cheysdad DD. After the renewal, we made our way over to Margaritaville, it was quite crowded. Cheysdad went in and bought a few t-shirts and we all made our way back to the ship. My DH was tired so he went back to the room to nap while we went and had lunch. It was mexican buffet day and it was mighty tasty! After lunch the adults made there way to the adult pool, and of course the bar to visit with Jerome. I think I was drinking Margaritas that day:thumbsup2 :dance3:. It was time to go back and get ready for dinner, tonight was Pirate Night. We didn't bring our pirate outfits this trip because we were told that pirate night was going to be on Tuesday night and we were going to Palo, but once we got onboard we found out that it was on Wednesday, oh well, maybe next trip. Dinner was good, and of course you will not be shocked by this but I don't remember what I had to eat, maybe it was too many margaritas:rolleyes1. But, I do remember when it was dessert time that Cyprian (our server) brought out two cakes, one for Suzymouses DH birthday and one for Cheysdad and Cathe to celebrate there vow renewal.
After dinner we went to see the Illusionist Jason Bishop, the show was pretty good. After the show we called it a night. Another lovely day on the Disney Cruise!!!

[love2travel]

Thursday - Day at Sea - Thanksgiving Gooble Gooble Day!!!

We had an absolulety wonderful Thanksgiving Day. We spent our day on Deck 10 and never moved except for getting Sushi and German Chocolate Cake at the Seafood Buffet and for going to the bar, had to visit Jerome a few times. We watched Tennessee crush Detroit on the big screen and drank some more and some more, do you see a pattern!!! LOVING THE LIFE OF A DISNEY CRUISE!!!!

Dinner tonight was semi formal so we made our way back to the room to prepare. Went down to the lobby for more photos, I'm a sucker for photos, bought way too many this trip and we are they now, still in the Disney Cruise folder they gave me. Maybe that should be my next project, getting frames for my photos. Ok anyway..... on the way to dinner we stopped to watch a chef icing the gingerbread house in the Promenade Lounge, it was very cool to watch.

Thanksgiving Dinner, we had beautiful menus that we were allowed to take home, nice keepsake. Before dinner arrived we all took turns going around the table to say what we were thankful for. It was really nice, a few tears here and there. One thing we were all thankful for was to be travelling with a great group of people!! I know you will not believe this but GUESS WHAT, I know what I had to eat for dinner tonight. I had the lobster and the vension, both were good. After dinner we went shopping in Mickey Mates. The girls went to the show with Suzymouse and then we called it a night. It was a wonderful Thanksgiving, thanks to all of our great friends and the Disney Cruise.

[HerrQSmee]

What a great trip report! Makes me feel like I am back on the boat again! :goodvibes
Suzanne

[love2travel]

Friday - 2nd Stop at Castaway Cay

We all met at Topsiders for breakfast. We got tables outside so we would have a nice view of us pulling up to CC. We pulled up to see CC all decorated with Christmas trees and snowmen, what a sight!!!! We met up with lexandme while we were pulling into CC and chatted for a few minutes and took a few photos together. We went back to our rooms and gathered up everything we would need for the day and met back up downstairs. Upon getting off the ship, we stopped and took several and I mean several photos in front of the snowmen and Christmas tree. They even had a snow machine, it was so cool :rotfl:. It was an absolutely beautiful day, warm sunny weather. We rented floats and enjoyed the beautiful water, a little chilly but for us New Jerseyans it was no big deal. I brought my IPOD with my little speaker and we sat back in the lounge chairs and listened to Bob Marley and Jimmy Buffet while we had our cocktails. Could it get any better than that? We enjoyed our lunch at CC once again and chilled out on the beach. Did some shopping before heading back to the ship. We were all sad that we had to leave CC, but who isn't??

Friday night - our last night on the ship.

We all met back up for dinner, our last dinner was in Parrot Cay. We chatted with our servers and Cyprian told us that he was leaving the ship the next day to go home (India) for his six week vacation. He shared pictures of his son with us, what a darling little boy. We all enjoyed our dinner and said our farewells to our servers, it's always a sad time I think. After dinner we all decided that we would all meet up and go to the Remember the Magic show.
It's always a good show and it had Jason Bishop, the illusionist and the comedian Jeff Civillico in it. I think Jason Bishop was better in this show than he was the previous night and Jeff Civillico was really funny and talented. We went back to the room to finish up our packing and prepare to leave the ship:sad2:.

[love2travel]

Saturday - time to go home:eek:

We all met up for breakfast at Topsiders. Suzymouse advised us that she found her lost bra while she was packing up.:woohoo: She never did find the missing sock, though. Then we said our goodbyes :sad2:, but the good thing was we all knew that we would see each other in another week at Suzymouses DD Bat Mitzvah, so it wasn't too bad. We made our way off the ship, it was a little chilly in Port Canaveral. We waited for our limo to arrive. They arrived a few minutes early and we were off to the Orlando Airport. I was a little nervous because we had a 12:10pm flight out of Orlando and it was Thanksgiving weekend. When our limo pulled up at the USAIR curbside checkin there was nobody there, I mean not a single person. I couldn't believe it, within 20 minutes we were checked in and thru security and at our gate. We had plenty of time, thank goodness. Our flight home was a little bumpy and I hate turbulance so I was freeking out just a little,
but we arrived home safely.

Overall observations of our Disney Cruise -

Food - Excellent
Service - Excellent
Friends & Family - Priceless, it was a trip that we will all remember and we were truly blessed to be able to share it with all of you. Thanks for everything!!

I don't know when our next Disney cruise will be, with DD being in middle school now, it will probably have to be in the summertime from now on. But, I think our next trip will be to Disney World, this coming summer. It was great meeting all of the DISers and thanks again for all the great FE gifts. If anybody has anything to add, feel free. Take care of yourselves and make good choices!!! GO STEELERS!!!! THE END!!!!!!

[lavawalker]

I don't know when our next Disney cruise will be, with DD being in middle school now, it will probably have to be in the summertime from now on.
Since I was on this cruise also, I have been reading your trip report with interest.... it was a GREAT cruise, wasn't it?

Anyhow, just curious - we live in CA and a lot of the schools here have Thanksgiving week off, so this was the perfect cruise for us. Are the schools where you live in session that week? Not sure if maybe having that week off is just a regional thing. I know other parts of the country have some sort of a "ski week" or something like that and have a week off in Feb. I'd love to have that time off for a tropical vacation!

[love2travel]

Since I was on this cruise also, I have been reading your trip report with interest.... it was a GREAT cruise, wasn't it?

Anyhow, just curious - we live in CA and a lot of the schools here have Thanksgiving week off, so this was the perfect cruise for us. Are the schools where you live in session that week? Not sure if maybe having that week off is just a regional thing. I know other parts of the country have some sort of a "ski week" or something like that and have a week off in Feb. I'd love to have that time off for a tropical vacation!

We are in NJ and we have school part of Thanksgiving week, 1/2 day on Wed. and then off Thursday and Friday. So our DD missed 3 1/2 days, which wasn't too bad. We don't have any length of time off now until April for spring break.

[jsfein]

Teresa -- what a great way to relive the cruise many weeks later. Thanks for putting together your report. It was a real pleasure bumping into you and Ken, Sue and Howard, Michael and Cathe, and all of your kids (I saw the three girls together everywhere I turned, as well as Howard's mother and her husband) throughout the cruise. Have a happy and healthy 2009!!

[love2travel]

Teresa -- what a great way to relive the cruise many weeks later. Thanks for putting together your report. It was a real pleasure bumping into you and Ken, Sue and Howard, Michael and Cathe, and all of your kids (I saw the three girls together everywhere I turned, as well as Howard's mother and her husband) throughout the cruise. Have a happy and healthy 2009!!

Hey Jason, Happy New Year to you and your family. Hope everyone is doing well.

[lexandme]

Teresa and Ken -

Do yinz have enough Terrible Towels?

Judy
Go Stillers:cheer2:

[love2travel]

Teresa and Ken -

Do yinz have enough Terrible Towels?

Judy
Go Stillers:cheer2:

Hey Judy,

Yup we have our towels, jerseys, blankets. figurines, you name it, we have it. Even the dog has a steelers bandana. GO STEELERS!!!

[Suzy Mouse]

Gosh!!! I'm sick for a few days...off the DIS...now when I'm back the trip is totally over!!AHHH!!!!

Just one clarification and one comment...

the bra was found when I got home. DH did all the laundry:love: and when I went into my drawer and there it was??? Luckily it was only my running bra and I can get away with wearing just a tank. Sorry if this is too much info!!

Now for my comment...uh Teresa...what about the 2 ships part??? The second trip brought along the second ship..and of couse me running around like a crazy lunatic!!!

Good luck to all the football fans out there. My Giant fan sister will be at the Giants/Eagles game with her Eagles Fan boyfriend ...(yes they are ok!)

[love2travel]

Gosh!!! I'm sick for a few days...off the DIS...now when I'm back the trip is totally over!!AHHH!!!!

Just one clarification and one comment...

the bra was found when I got home. DH did all the laundry:love: and when I went into my drawer and there it was??? Luckily it was only my running bra and I can get away with wearing just a tank. Sorry if this is too much info!!

Now for my comment...uh Teresa...what about the 2 ships part??? The second trip brought along the second ship..and of couse me running around like a crazy lunatic!!!

Good luck to all the football fans out there. My Giant fan sister will be at the Giants/Eagles game with her Eagles Fan boyfriend ...(yes they are ok!)


Suzanne, so to hear you were sick, hope your feeling better.

I swore you told us that you found your bra on the ship when you were packing up, oh well maybe I was dreaming and I know Cathe won't come on here to post one way or the other.:lmao:

I can't believe I forgot the part about the 2 ships, sorry. Well, everybody that's reading this was probably there so they know we saw the two ships together. It was a great sight to see and yes you should have seen Suzymouse take off running to get a good picture of the ships. All I said was I'll meet you back at the beach, I wasn't running anywhere.:lmao: it was vacation after all.

Glad to hear your sister and her boyfriend are doing well. We'll have to catch up on all the details. GO STEELERS!!!! Everybody have fun today watching the games!!!

If anybody else has anything to add feel free. Suzanne thanks for the clarification and comment.

[lexandme]

I'm making the time to post my recollections. But before I do....
Go Steelers!!!:dance3:
Here's the beginning of my journal:
11/21/08
6:15am flight from Pittsburgh (Go Steelers) on AirTran to Atlanta. What was to be a 30 minute layover turned into 1.5 hours. We had to wait for a part to deliver to a plane in Orlando. Finally landed at 11:00am. Took the Magical Express to Animal Kingdom Lodge. We are really poor people and usually stay in a value resort. We have stayed at Port Orleans and Caribbean Beach but nothing could have prepared us for AKL. We booked a Savannah room and, being animal lovers, we were blown away. Sitting on our balcony and watching giraffes, zebras, ostrich and buffalo grazing right below us was amazing. Not to mention the sheer beauty of the lodge itself. We decided to take the bus to Downtown Disney and do some shopping. Spent a few hours there and then back to AKL to dress for MVMCP at the Magic Kingdom. Because Tim is a teacher we are limited to travel only during the summer and Nov or Dec holiday time. We always go to WDW in the summer we are used to heat and crowds. The eve at MK was amazing. We walked right on every ride - no waiting!!! Ate cookies and hot chocolate. It was very cold that evening. I wore a wool sweater and gloves and I could have used a jacket and ear muffs as well. (I hate cold weather.) The parade was fun but the castle was just beautiful; all dressed up in twinkle lights. The fireworks were great as usual. Prior to the fireworks we met up with Susan (Disneypoor) and Stacie (Momtosupers, etc) beside the castle. We shopped some more on Main Street and then back to AKL around midnight. In bed and tried to get a good night's sleep so we could be ready for the Magic in the morning!!

[lexandme]

Saturday, 11/22/08
Up early and walked around AKL. Ate breakfast, got our luggage together and then on the DCL bus. Arrived at Port Canaveral, through boarding and onto the Magic! The boarding process was quick and easy. No waiting in line and we walked right on (around 1:00). I preferred that to waiting in line.
Put our luggage in the room and went to the DIS meet. It was great fun meeting everyone and being able to put a face with the names.
Because we were running around looking for each other and for dolphins, Tim and I missed the sail-a-way-party. Spent the rest of the evening walking around the ship. Late (8:30) dinner in Animators Palate. Our head waiter "Melroy" dropped full plates of food by our table. China and food flew everywhere! I had vegetable stuffed chicken, squash soup, peach ginger cheese cake and a Mickey Bar!:mickeybar I was so full I could only eat his ears! I knew at that point my diet was blown to hell! See ya in a week Weight Watchers! After dinner Tim and I went to "Match Your Mate." We had a few drinks and then to bed by 1:00am.

Sunday, 11/23/08
I was up early and sat on deck 10, listening to Marley on my Ipod while we pulled in to Castaway Cay. Met Linda (Plutoluvsfifi) for breakfast at Parrot Cay. I tried to eat healthy. Does a handful of All-Bran count? All the delicious pastries, pancakes and my favorite - Mickey Waffles!! (Why does food taste better when it's shaped like Mickey Mouse?) Went back to our cabin and escorted Tim and Ian to breakfast at Parrot Cay. Our waiter dropped a full glass of OJ on Tim but he didn't let it stop him from eating!
Left the ship and went to the family beach. Tim floated on a tube and I splashed around in the cold water for a while. Ian never left his lounge! Ate lunch at Cookies BBQ and layed on the beach some more. I bought a DCL beach towel on our way off the island. Back on board, showered and changed and made our way to Deck 9. Had a few drinks and relaxed some more. Went in the pool and hot tub. Relaxed some more. Ian left us to connect with his friends and Tim and I went to bingo. Tim won color changing hair clips which he immediately gave to a little girl that was there with her grandparents! Later we went off to dinner at Parrot Cay. I had chicken, mango soup,crab dip, chocolate/vanilla s'mores cake. (We booked the early dinner seating for our next cruise. We decided that eating that late made us tired and it was harder to stay awake for all of the later evening activities.) Went to Rockin' Bar D for "One Hit Wonders" I must post that it was either Saturday or Sunday night, in Rockin' Bar D that we saw Ken (Seadooken) wearing his wife Mich's bra. It was a sight to behold! Ken - you looked lovely!!Just like a princess!!princess: :lmao:

I will be back later with the remainder of my journal! (Have to get ready for the game. Go you know who!!)
Judy ºoº

[lexandme]

Monday 11/24 Day at Sea

My journal says it was partly cloudy and warm, waves 4-8 feet, very calm seas. I was sitting on Deck 10, listening to Marley, watching Cuba slide by to my left. Does it get any better? Ate brunch at Palo - wonderful time! The food was excellent and the company better! Many Disers there - Ken and Mich, Russ and Jeanette, Mark, Linda, and the private room was full of you guys! The rest of the day was spent laying by the pool, walking around the ship and delivering FE gifts. I know I was scheduled for delivery on Fri but we decided to do it early because we had tubes of glow bracelets for Pirate night that had to get distributed. I misplaced my FE list so I had Tim help me and we went from deck to deck just dropping them in any FE we saw. While we were walking I kept hearing a metal clanging noise but didn't think anything of it. At one point we ran into a young girl, approx 8 years old. We had no idea who she was but Tim, being the nice guy teacher, said "Here little girl, would you like one of these tubes?" She gave him a funny look, and timidly took the tube of bracelets, quickly said thank you and ran into her stateroom. We kept walking. About halfway down the hall, I turned to ask Tim something. It was only then that I saw his belt was not buckled and was hanging down from his shorts. His fly was open and his t-shirt was tucked in!! No wonder the poor child was scared! Billy-Bob/Bad Santa was standing there looking like some kind of freak! If anyone reading this knows who the child belonged to, please reassure them it was all a misunderstanding!
I don't recall where we ate that night or what I had. I'm sure it was good!

Tuesday 11/25 Cozumel
Up early and ate breakfast at Topsiders. Met for our Dolphin swim excursion at 10:15. Off ship and walked to catch a cab to Dolphinaris. Long tedious process to get registered and into the water. The swim was incredible. We spent quite a bit of time just bobbing in the water and petting the dolphin (Tinko) as he swam past. The one by one we got to give him a kiss and then receive one back. We held onto his flukes and danced with him and finally - we held onto his flippers as he swam past and we went for a belly ride. They are extremely powerful and the ride was incredible. We were in the water for almost an hour and it was worth every penny! I would do it again in a second.It was definitely the highlight of the trip for me. After the dolphin swim we shopped. Bought t-shirts and souvenirs and Tim bought me a tanzanite, opal and white sapphire ring for a Christmas gift. One store we shopped in kept pushing free shots of tequila on Tim. I guess they thought if they got him drunk he would buy more! He only drinks beer so all their efforts were in vain!
That evening we went to see "Twice Charmed." Tim and Mark decided they didn't feel like a big dinner so Linda and I went to Lumiere's alone. Ian decided on Sunday he would rather eat on the run and hang with his buddies than eat with us. We saw very little of him on this trip. Only when we insisted. And to think he was anxious about not knowing anyone and thought he wouldn't have any fun!

Judy ºoº

[love2travel]

Judy, How about them STEELERS!!!

I am enjoying your report, thanks for sharing.

Suzymouse sorry about the Giants, I think it might just be a PA superbowl.

[lexandme]

Judy, How about them STEELERS!!!

I am enjoying your report, thanks for sharing.

Suzymouse sorry about the Giants, I think it might just be a PA superbowl.

Teresa - Didn't they kick butt all over the field?!!! Now we're gonna take care of Baltimore!:woohoo:
Suzanne - I too send my condolences for the Giants ( I wanted them to beat Philly). There's always next year.

I'll get back to the report; hopefully tomorrow. I know I'm forgetting some details but I'll add them as I remember. I had surgery on Friday and I'm still taking pain medication. I get a little sloppy and forgetful. Happy, but forgetful!

Judy ºoº

[lexandme]

http://i41.tinypic.com/174g1e.jpg

My friend Tinko and me in Cozumel.

[love2travel]

Judy, I love the picture. Keep going with your report. GO STEELERS!!!!

[love2travel]

Tomorrow is the big game, GO STEELERS!!!:thumbsup2

[lexandme]

Tomorrow is the big game, GO STEELERS!!!:thumbsup2

Tonight's the night! It's 30º here today and dipping back down into the teens tonight. We had about 3 new inches of snow over night. I don't think it's expected to snow during the game though. My friend Mike had 2 tickets and he offered them to me but I can't tolerate the cold so I said no! I'm beginning to regret my decision. I wish they had built a dome for Heinz Field!
I'm going to try to post more trip report today also.
GO STILLERS!!!:smokin: :cheer2: :wave2:
Judy

[TheFatMansWife]

love mickey bars

[lavawalker]

love mickey bars

me too!! :thumbsup2

[love2travel]

Tonight's the night! It's 30º here today and dipping back down into the teens tonight. We had about 3 new inches of snow over night. I don't think it's expected to snow during the game though. My friend Mike had 2 tickets and he offered them to me but I can't tolerate the cold so I said no! I'm beginning to regret my decision. I wish they had built a dome for Heinz Field!
I'm going to try to post more trip report today also.
GO STILLERS!!!:smokin: :cheer2: :wave2:
Judy


WHAT!!! How could you pass up the tickets? I just told Ken and he said "why didn't she call us, I would have drove all night for tickets".
I understand about the cold, i hate wintertime, bring on the summer :beach:.
Enjoy the game and we'll talk later after the Steelers beat on the Ravens.

[lexandme]

I know - I can't believe I passed them up either. It's really cold here though and I don't know how much of the game I would have enjoyed. I probably would have spent a lot of time in the bathroom thawing out!

It's half time and they can't afford to get sloppy!
Run Willie Run!!!:thumbsup2

[lexandme]

Was there any doubt the Stillers would take the Ravens?:sad:
Spread the word :mic: Arizona is a no brainer.
Tampa, here we come!!!:cheer2:

There are fireworks going off all over, my dog is going nuts and barking at them like a mad man! People are out in the streets screaming and banging pots and pans.
Pittsburgh is crazy!!:thumbsup2

[love2travel]

The Steelers are going to the Super Bowl!!!:cool1: :thumbsup2 :cheer2: :cheer2:

[jenseib]

Fun report. I was wondering about the two ships part too. LOL! So where were they docked together at?

[love2travel]

Fun report. I was wondering about the two ships part too. LOL! So where were they docked together at?

I am sorry I left that part out, I don't know how I did that :confused3.

We were at CC relaxing on the beach and all of a sudden out in the distance you could see the Wonder. The Wonder came as close as it's allowed to (some kind of ruling from what I heard) to the Magic and everybody got some really great pictures of the 2 ships together. It doesn't happen that often so everybody even the crew members were excited to see it. It was cool, the ships had a horn blowing contest back and forth. So, no they were not docked together, just sailed by.

[Happy4Disney]

Hi, lurking and reading your TR, thanks for reminding me of what a great time we had! I'm embarassed to say that I just unpacked the last suitcase this weekend which had our souvenirs in it.

Judy, wow what a great picture!

[Suzy Mouse]

The Steelers are going to the Super Bowl!!!:cool1: :thumbsup2 :cheer2: :cheer2:

Have to admit that I'm quite torn about the superbowl!! I always root for the underdog (here the Cardinals have never made it to the bowl)...but Teresa...how can I root against you????:cheer2:

ps...check out my new siggie!!!! Am I crazy or what???? My sister gave me my birthday present early...she registered me for the marathon!!! AHHHH!!!!

[love2travel]

Have to admit that I'm quite torn about the superbowl!! I always root for the underdog (here the Cardinals have never made it to the bowl)...but Teresa...how can I root against you????:cheer2:

ps...check out my new siggie!!!! Am I crazy or what???? My sister gave me my birthday present early...she registered me for the marathon!!! AHHHH!!!!


You are absolutely right, you can't root against the Steelers and your dear friends.:rotfl2:

WOW, that is terrific about the marathon, I think I told you, one of the teachers at school just completed the Disney Marathon two weeks ago and absolutely LOVED IT. If you want I can put you in touch with her, she would love to talk about it.

[lexandme]

Hi everyone!
Cindy - did you purchase the photos or video from Dolphinaris? I thought they did a very nice job.
Suzy - You have to root for the Stillers! And what a wonderful gift - the Disney Marathon! I am jealous;I'd be able to run about 10 yards before collapsing. Please let us know all about it!:thumbsup2
Is everyone staying warm? It's going to be warmer here today; predicting 25º.
I just close my eyes and dream about CC.:beach:

[lexandme]

Back to my journal.......

Wednesday - Grand Cayman
Had a late arrival due to weather. We tendered in around 12:30pm. We were very impressed by Georgetown. Everything was very clean, neat and orderly and full of banks and jewelry stores. We had no excursions planned so we wandered around town and shopped. Bought the basic t-shirts and had lunch in Margaritaville. Tendered back to the ship around 4. Spent the early eve relaxing. Ate dinner at Animator's Palate - Pirate Night!! Watched the party and fireworks from deck 10 then went to karaoke in Rockin' Bar D.

Thursday Thanksgiving day.
Spent the day at sea. Ate breakfast at Topsiders with Linda. Tim and Ian still in bed; they would rather sleep than eat. Linda and I went to a talk about the future of the Disney parks. It was given by Bruce Vaughn, Imagineers Chief Creative Executive.
After the talk I was walking on Deck 3 when I ran into Pluto and Mickey! Pluto threw his ball at me and we played a quick game of catch. I asked their "handler" why Mickey is allowed to bring his dog on board and I am not. She told me it's because Pluto has a dog house on board. Now, I thought that was a lame answer and I pressed the issue. I stated my dog is very well behaved and a little smaller than Pluto and that he would just stay in the cabin with me. She never answered me but grabbed both Pluto and Mickey's arm and quickly escorted them away from me!
We all gatheed together and had the seafood buffet lunch at Parrot Cay. Very good food.
Spent the afternoon by the pool and walking around the ship trying to stay out of trouble.
Went to the 6:15 showing of Disney Dreams with Tim. At Thanksgiving dinner at Parrot Cay with Mark, Linda, Tim, and even Ian joined us - I insisted since it was a holiday! I ordered the basic Turkey dinner with a side of Lobster tail. Ian had bacon wrapped cod and a lobster tail. He loved the cod and said the lobster was good. He had never tasted lobster before out of fear! He said it tasted like "sweet chicken". okay........
Spent some time on deck staring out into the darkness and watching the wake on the side of the ship. Went to bed early.

[lexandme]

Friday 11/28

Up early, showered and sat on deck 10, listening to my Ipod and heading into CC. Went to the character breakfast with Linda at Parrot Cay. Esther, our asst server made us Minnie bows for our heads out of our napkins. We wore them throughout the meal.
Spent the day at Serenity Bay. Ian elected to stay on board with his new friends. We had lunch at SB and enjoyed all the good food. Tim proclaimed the steak to be beyond good! We layed on lounge chairs, went in the water where Tim said "vicious coral" cut his feet. I wore my crocs in to avoid nasty sea life! A stingray swam up to us, saw various forms of aquatic life including starfish, crabs and fish. I did look for sharks too. Spent time talking to Susan and Brian and enjoying the day. Tim decided it was prbably a good idea to rebook while we were onboard. I told Mark and Linda I had received the go-ahead and they decided to rebook as well. I ran back on board before Tim had a chance to change his mind and sat in a wet bathing suit waiting my turn in line. We booked the 5 day, July 20, 2010 knowing we can change it if we decide to go longer. My thinking was we would add a few days at WDW prior to sailing.
Spent the evening relaxing and wandering around the ship. Dinner was very sad. Tim came very close to crying when he had to say goodbye to Esther. He fell in love with her and she gave him the crumb scraper she had been using all week as a momento. (When we arrived home he put it in an honored spot in our curio cabinet!). Back to the cabin and packed, put our suitcases out and wandered the ship a little more before going to bed.

Saturday, 11/29

Off the ship at 9am. Got the DCL bus to Orlando MCO. Our flight didn't leave until 3:45pm so we wandered around the airport, shopped, ate lunch and sat on benches and people watched! The flight home was smooth but we were in row 10, behind business class. There was a curtain directly in front of us, the XM radio did not work the entire flight and the armrests were broken and could not be lifted up. Very claustrophobic. I was glad when we landed.
It was bitter cold in Pgh and of course we didn't have coats. We "misplaced" our car and had to call the airport parking authority to come rescue us and drive us around until we found it! Here was our conversation "I thought you remembered where we parked." I thought you wrote it down." Why would I write it down? You have a purse with a pen." "I thought you were a genius and could remember." I'm sure the driver was glad when we found it and he could dump us out of his truck!
We went to dinner on our way home and Tim left his camera in the restaurant. We retrieved it 2 days later. Total losses on trip: 1 diamond stud earring, one gold Claddagh ring. DCL found and returned a lot of cash Tim left in a drawer. The mats I left at guest services to be signed by the characters were never returned to our cabin and after 2 phone calls were never located.
We must cruise the Magic again so I can look for my earring and ring!

[lexandme]

Just read on Disney Link that this Sunday, Jan 25 on ABC - Extreme Home Makeover,the featured couple will be renewing their wedding vows on Castaway Cay!

[lexandme]

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=D5Cjmnbi_OM

Here's the link to the video of the 2 ships at Castaway Cay.

[loveysbydesign]

Thanks for the great report...I can only hope to make some great friends on our 1st Disney cruise too!

[HerrQSmee]

Judy,
Loved your trip report - just like living it all over again. Sorry we never met you on the ship. Just to make you jealous of our weather- it has been in the upper 70's for the last 2 days. Winter as we know it will be back tomorrow with a high in the 40's! Just in time for me to stand in front of a Walmart and sell Girl Scout cookies!
Suzanne

[lexandme]

Teresa -
If you need any James Harrison "Sixburgh" shirts or AFC Championship Locker Room shirts, let me know!:thumbsup2
Sure you have enough "Terrible Towels"?:cheer2:

Suzanne - We have had 11 straight days of weather that has been just bitter cold, wind chills below zero for several days Today went to 51 and it felt downright balmy! Remind me what 75º feels like!

Loveysbydesign - Have a great cruise! I'm sure you'll enjoy every minute. I am jealous and wish we could go again this November!

[lexandme]

Hey Teresa!

Can you believe it?
I now live in Sixburgh!!!:thumbsup2

You guys should come over for the big parade and rally this week!:cheer2:

[love2travel]

Hey Teresa!

Can you believe it?
I now live in Sixburgh!!!:thumbsup2

You guys should come over for the big parade and rally this week!:cheer2:

:cheer2: :cheer2: :cool1: :thumbsup2 WOW!!! What a game....it was incredible.

[love2travel]

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY TO ALL MY DIS FRIENDS!:love:

[lexandme]

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY TO ALL MY DIS FRIENDS!:love:

Hope everyone had a great day!

Teresa - So far I have collected a 6 pack of commemorative Coke for you. No Wheaties or Iron City or even Heinz products yet. Hang in there - they're just taking their time, I know there will be a lot soon.
Tim got me a "Got Six?" t-shirt for Valentines day - no candy or flowers (we do love our Steelers don't we?)
Itunes has a special for Steelers fans. You can download games from this season for 1.99 and NFL Game Day for 1.99. Game Day has highlights from the Super Bowl and some great interviews.
Judy ºoº

[love2travel]

Hope everyone had a great day!

Teresa - So far I have collected a 6 pack of commemorative Coke for you. No Wheaties or Iron City or even Heinz products yet. Hang in there - they're just taking their time, I know there will be a lot soon.
Tim got me a "Got Six?" t-shirt for Valentines day - no candy or flowers (we do love our Steelers don't we?)
Itunes has a special for Steelers fans. You can download games from this season for 1.99 and NFL Game Day for 1.99. Game Day has highlights from the Super Bowl and some great interviews.
Judy ºoº


Thank you Judy, no problem I am patiently waiting for my Steelers goodies!