I'm thankful for...MICKEY!!! My Thanksgiving '08 TR!: TR Update, Last Day!

[stagemomx3]

.

Well, my maiden name means "hunter" in German. And my married name is the name of a certain bird (not hard to figure out from my Dis name). So my bro said that so far, he's thought of putting Mickey dressed as a hunter. And guess what the hunter is hunting?

Sick. Demented. Wrong. That's my loving brother!

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: That is hilarious. I hope he does it.

[scottny]

As I always do before a Disney trip, I'm contemplating getting the Disney Rewards Visa...

Do any of you guys have this? If so, is it worth it?

Thanks!

I do. it is ok. the rewards are not great but getitng offers from Disney earlier is nice. I would not cancel mine, ever.

[jordanyosh]

Can I ask a question for which I'll likely be slapped down for being the WDW-ignorant fool that I am? LOL

I'm with you on the loving office supplies thing, but what exactly would go into a Disney binder?

Seriously though, what stuff goes into your binder? I'm genuinely interested :goodvibes

lisa

Binder:

Spreadsheets
Daily itinerary
Travel confirmation
Disney confirmations
ADR confirmation number sheet
Addresses
Zip pouch with park tickets/vouchers/LGMHs
Restaurant menus

[mkluvsmickey]

As I always do before a Disney trip, I'm contemplating getting the Disney Rewards Visa...

Do any of you guys have this? If so, is it worth it?

Thanks!

I have it too and use it mainly for my business and Disney trips. The rewards aren't the greatest but better than nothing. It is nice to get advance notice of things as Scott said. I just love looking at Mickey Mouse whenever I use it! :)

[KathyRN137]

Binder:

Spreadsheets
Daily itinerary
Travel confirmation
Disney confirmations
ADR confirmation number sheet
Addresses
Zip pouch with park tickets/vouchers/LGMHs
Restaurant menus



Binder Building 101:

This introductory course is designed for beginners. Students will be given an overview of essential OTP Binder content, construction, and implementation. Upon completion of this course, students will create their very own Binder Buddy.

Credits: 3

Instructor: Tour Guide Jordan, President,
Obsessive Trip Planners of America


Kathy

[Charleston Princess]

I'll tell you what my brother has come up with so far...(he still can't stop teasing me, even though he's 30!)

I asked him to put my last name and his last name on the binder cover. That way the last names of everyone going on the trip would be on the binder.

Well, my maiden name means "hunter" in German. And my married name is the name of a certain bird (not hard to figure out from my Dis name). So my bro said that so far, he's thought of putting Mickey dressed as a hunter. And guess what the hunter is hunting?

Sick. Demented. Wrong. That's my loving brother!

You know this is hilarious!!! I want to see a picture!!!

Binder Building 101:

This introductory course is designed for beginners. Students will be given an overview of essential OTP Binder content, construction, and implementation. Upon completion of this course, students will create their very own Binder Buddy.

Credits: 3

Instructor: Tour Guide Jordan, President,
Obsessive Trip Planners of America


Kathy

:rotfl2:

[SwansLoveDisney]

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: That is hilarious. I hope he does it.

I will definitely share it if he does it!

I do. it is ok. the rewards are not great but getitng offers from Disney earlier is nice. I would not cancel mine, ever.

What kind of offers have they offered?



lisa

Binder:

Spreadsheets
Daily itinerary
Travel confirmation
Disney confirmations
ADR confirmation number sheet
Addresses
Zip pouch with park tickets/vouchers/LGMHs
Restaurant menus

Thank you...I didn't think of all those things!

I have it too and use it mainly for my business and Disney trips. The rewards aren't the greatest but better than nothing. It is nice to get advance notice of things as Scott said. I just love looking at Mickey Mouse whenever I use it! :)

Yeah, I think the Mickey Mouse thing is the big draw for me.

I have a southwest card now, and we get lots of free trips from that, so I'm not sure I would use the Disney one much.

Binder Building 101:

This introductory course is designed for beginners. Students will be given an overview of essential OTP Binder content, construction, and implementation. Upon completion of this course, students will create their very own Binder Buddy.

Credits: 3

Instructor: Tour Guide Jordan, President,
Obsessive Trip Planners of America

Where do I sign up?!?


Kathy

[SwansLoveDisney]

You know this is hilarious!!! I want to see a picture!!!


I will post a pic of it if he does it.

I have a feeling he was working on it last night because he wouldn't answer his phone!

[lisalonglash]

lisa

Binder:

Spreadsheets
Daily itinerary
Travel confirmation
Disney confirmations
ADR confirmation number sheet
Addresses
Zip pouch with park tickets/vouchers/LGMHs
Restaurant menus

Thanks Jordan :flower3: (and thanks for not slapping me down :rotfl2:). So, basically, I have the daily itinerary, all park info, dining plans, etc. on my Excel workbook. The confirmation and travel agent stuff is in the folder she sent us. Love the idea of printing menus, I will do that off the DIS site.

Geez, I really don't know anything, do I? :scared1:

Can I hire you? :rotfl2:

[lisalonglash]

I'll tell you what my brother has come up with so far...(he still can't stop teasing me, even though he's 30!)

I asked him to put my last name and his last name on the binder cover. That way the last names of everyone going on the trip would be on the binder.

Well, my maiden name means "hunter" in German. And my married name is the name of a certain bird (not hard to figure out from my Dis name). So my bro said that so far, he's thought of putting Mickey dressed as a hunter. And guess what the hunter is hunting?

Sick. Demented. Wrong. That's my loving brother!

Too funny :lmao:

[scottny]

so far free dining early. some got offers for discounts off I heard other than that.

I just earned reward dollars which I will redeem for my trip.

also it is cute to have Mickey on a card.

[SwansLoveDisney]

so far free dining early. some got offers for discounts off I heard other than that.

I just earned reward dollars which I will redeem for my trip.

also it is cute to have Mickey on a card.

Thanks for the info!

I just might sign up for that card! DH will be so happy that I'll have another credit card. :rolleyes1

[pierresgirl]

Hi Julie :) - I'm subbing but will have to read later!!!!!! popcorn::

[lisalonglash]

Thanks for the info!

I just might sign up for that card! DH will be so happy that I'll have another credit card. :rolleyes1

Oh sure, rub it in :laughing: We can't get the Disney Visa here in Canada - we're so deprived :rotfl2:

I think you should get it - more free stuff is always good! :thumbsup2

[lisalonglash]

Binder Building 101:

This introductory course is designed for beginners. Students will be given an overview of essential OTP Binder content, construction, and implementation. Upon completion of this course, students will create their very own Binder Buddy.

Credits: 3

Instructor: Tour Guide Jordan, President,
Obsessive Trip Planners of America


Kathy

Can Canucks take the course or is it only for Americans? :confused3 :lmao:

OT, Kathy, I subscribed to your PTR, it's wonderful :goodvibes

[babieemelly]

YES!! It's binder time! :lmao: I made a trip binder back in 2005 and I loved that bad boy. I had our calendars, touring plans, ADR's, restaurant menus, guidebooks and everything else I could think of in there and it was so useful. I'm starting my binder for next year's trip next week. It's so much fun putting it together! Keep us updated on the cover... we'll need some pictures!

[mkluvsmickey]

Ok - I love the binder idea but do you carry it around to the parks? Doesn't it get heavy after a while? :confused3 Or do you just leave it in your room for reference.

I usually put my park info on little index cards by day so I can toss them when the day is over. I do print out menus/confirmations/etc and usually leave them in my room - mayble I'll have to make a binder for them! :cool1:

[SwansLoveDisney]

Hi Julie :) - I'm subbing but will have to read later!!!!!! popcorn::

Hi Leyla! Thanks for stopping by!

Oh sure, rub it in :laughing: We can't get the Disney Visa here in Canada - we're so deprived :rotfl2:

I think you should get it - more free stuff is always good! :thumbsup2

I'm sorry! I didn't know you can't get the card in Canada! Maybe you can put a Mickey sticker on the credit card you do have!

Can Canucks take the course or is it only for Americans? :confused3 :lmao:
OT, Kathy, I subscribed to your PTR, it's wonderful :goodvibes

I am sure that anyone is welcome in the course!

I wonder if there's a fee?

YES!! It's binder time! :lmao: I made a trip binder back in 2005 and I loved that bad boy. I had our calendars, touring plans, ADR's, restaurant menus, guidebooks and everything else I could think of in there and it was so useful. I'm starting my binder for next year's trip next week. It's so much fun putting it together! Keep us updated on the cover... we'll need some pictures!

I think the binder is just going to feed my obsession! It'll help me get through the super hot summer where we'll be trapped inside!


Ok - I love the binder idea but do you carry it around to the parks? Doesn't it get heavy after a while? :confused3 Or do you just leave it in your room for reference.

I usually put my park info on little index cards by day so I can toss them when the day is over. I do print out menus/confirmations/etc and usually leave them in my room - mayble I'll have to make a binder for them! :cool1:

I definitely won't be carrying the binder around the parks. I don't even think I'll carry the Passporter around the parks. I will definitely leave it in the room for reference and just take out the sheets I need for each day.

I'm going to have to have lots of copies of confirmation numbers and itineraries for everyone in our group!

It seems that a lot of people print out the menus...I don't think I'll do that. I'll save a little surprise for the trip! (as if I won't look at the menus obsessively before!)

[SwansLoveDisney]

I got some more Disney mail today. It's the planning DVD!

I can't wait to watch it! Maybe tomorrow in between cleaning the house and DISing!

[scottny]

I got some more Disney mail today. It's the planning DVD!

I can't wait to watch it! Maybe tomorrow in between cleaning the house and DISing!

I will be watching Disney Splurge on Travel Channel tomorrow. cannot wait.

[SwansLoveDisney]

I will be watching Disney Splurge on Travel Channel tomorrow. cannot wait.

I'll be TIVO-ing that! It's all set up already.

DH and I are also seeing Forgetting Sarah Marshall tomorrow. I'm excited! We're addicted to all those movies by the Knocked Up guys.

Wow! We're gonna be watching lots of TV/movies tomorrow. Such ambitious plans!

[scottny]

I'll be TIVO-ing that! It's all set up already.

DH and I are also seeing Forgetting Sarah Marshall tomorrow. I'm excited! We're addicted to all those movies by the Knocked Up guys.

Wow! We're gonna be watching lots of TV/movies tomorrow. Such ambitious plans!

I will wait for dvd. I do for most movies.

[jordanyosh]

Binder Building 101:

This introductory course is designed for beginners. Students will be given an overview of essential OTP Binder content, construction, and implementation. Upon completion of this course, students will create their very own Binder Buddy.

Credits: 3

Instructor: Tour Guide Jordan, President,
Obsessive Trip Planners of America


Kathy

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

YOU are the CEO of OTPA.;)

Thanks Jordan :flower3: (and thanks for not slapping me down :rotfl2:). So, basically, I have the daily itinerary, all park info, dining plans, etc. on my Excel workbook. The confirmation and travel agent stuff is in the folder she sent us. Love the idea of printing menus, I will do that off the DIS site.

Geez, I really don't know anything, do I? :scared1:

Can I hire you? :rotfl2:

I'd do it for free.....:)

You do know things, you just don't know you know things....It comes with experience.

Ok - I love the binder idea but do you carry it around to the parks? Doesn't it get heavy after a while? :confused3 Or do you just leave it in your room for reference.

I usually put my park info on little index cards by day so I can toss them when the day is over. I do print out menus/confirmations/etc and usually leave them in my room - mayble I'll have to make a binder for them! :cool1:

My cousin Wendy shrinks my daily itinerary and carries it with her.

The binder sits alone in the room.

[jordanyosh]

I'll tell you what my brother has come up with so far...(he still can't stop teasing me, even though he's 30!)

I asked him to put my last name and his last name on the binder cover. That way the last names of everyone going on the trip would be on the binder.

Well, my maiden name means "hunter" in German. And my married name is the name of a certain bird (not hard to figure out from my Dis name). So my bro said that so far, he's thought of putting Mickey dressed as a hunter. And guess what the hunter is hunting?

Sick. Demented. Wrong. That's my loving brother!

That's too funny..can't wait to see pix.....

[Native NYer]

I got some more Disney mail today. It's the planning DVD!

I can't wait to watch it! Maybe tomorrow in between cleaning the house and DISing!

Yay for Disney mail!!! I wish that would come instead of bills.

[SwansLoveDisney]

I will wait for dvd. I do for most movies.

That would be the smart thing to do! It would save us tons of money. We just can't wait though!


That's too funny..can't wait to see pix.....

I'll post the pix when he sends it to me!

Yay for Disney mail!!! I wish that would come instead of bills.

Wouldn't that be so nice? All Disney mail in place of bills...:cloud9:

[babieemelly]

It seems that a lot of people print out the menus...I don't think I'll do that. I'll save a little surprise for the trip! (as if I won't look at the menus obsessively before!)

Surprise... on a Disney trip? But... but... you can't plan surprises!! :laughing:

Have fun watching the planning DVD! Is it the same as last years?

[Charleston Princess]

I definitely won't be carrying the binder around the parks. I don't even think I'll carry the Passporter around the parks. I will definitely leave it in the room for reference and just take out the sheets I need for each day.

My binder and Passporter sit in the hotel room, also. I take as little as possible into the parks with me because I know by the end of the day, it will feel like it weighs a ton!

I got some more Disney mail today. It's the planning DVD!

I can't wait to watch it! Maybe tomorrow in between cleaning the house and DISing!

Disney mail is the best mail to get! I wish I got something every single day! :lovestruc

DH and I are also seeing Forgetting Sarah Marshall tomorrow. I'm excited! We're addicted to all those movies by the Knocked Up guys.


We are too! Tell me what you think of Forgetting Sarah Marshall! I went up several "cool" points when some of my students saw me going in to see Superbad at the theater. Middle schoolers are so easily impressed :lmao: .

[scottny]

did u go to the movie?

was it good?

[SwansLoveDisney]

Surprise... on a Disney trip? But... but... you can't plan surprises!! :laughing:

Have fun watching the planning DVD! Is it the same as last years?

I haven't watched it yet. I haven't had time today! Darn dirty house!

It says it's the 2008 edition, so I hope there's some new stuff on it!

My binder and Passporter sit in the hotel room, also. I take as little as possible into the parks with me because I know by the end of the day, it will feel like it weighs a ton!



Disney mail is the best mail to get! I wish I got something every single day! :lovestruc



We are too! Tell me what you think of Forgetting Sarah Marshall! I went up several "cool" points when some of my students saw me going in to see Superbad at the theater. Middle schoolers are so easily impressed :lmao: .

I could never carry that stuff around with me all day! It would make me crazy!



did u go to the movie?

was it good?

We just got back from Forgetting Sarah Marshall. It was hilarious. I love those movies! DH had to tell me to keep it down a couple times because I was laughing too loudly!

I definitely recommend it. :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 (2 thumbs up!)

[SwansLoveDisney]

I don't know if anyone's waiting to buy their tickets on Southwest, but they're now taking reservations through October 30!

I still can't buy my tickets. Bummer!

[Charleston Princess]

I haven't watched it yet. I haven't had time today! Darn dirty house!

:sad2: I hate cleaning -- I love it afterwards when my house is all clean, but the actual cleaning isn't any fun -- especially when there are fun things to do instead!

It says it's the 2008 edition, so I hope there's some new stuff on it!

There is -- not a lot, but I never get tired of the shameless heart-string tugging planning DVDs.

I could never carry that stuff around with me all day! It would make me crazy!

And I know I would never pull any of it out to look at!

We just got back from Forgetting Sarah Marshall. It was hilarious. I love those movies! DH had to tell me to keep it down a couple times because I was laughing too loudly!

I definitely recommend it. :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 (2 thumbs up!)

Hurray! :cheer2:

[SwansLoveDisney]

:sad2: I hate cleaning -- I love it afterwards when my house is all clean, but the actual cleaning isn't any fun -- especially when there are fun things to do instead!


Yuck! I hate cleaning too!

But the house is so clean and smells so nice right now. I guess it was worth it.

I can always find something more fun than cleaning!

[SwansLoveDisney]

I'm watching the Disney Splurge show right now. And I'm fast forwarding through so much of it! It's just not holding my interest. Oh well...maybe next Friday!

In other news, I ran 13 miles again this morning. It was supposed to be 15, but my training partner and I agreed that we were fine with 13. The race itself is 13.1. Why do more than necessary?!? :confused3 I can walk a little bit better after this morning's run than last time we did 13. Thank Goodness!

[Charleston Princess]

Yuck! I hate cleaning too!

But the house is so clean and smells so nice right now. I guess it was worth it.

I can always find something more fun than cleaning!

Sadly, house cleaning was on my list of things to do today -- I have done nothing but procrastinate and now it's almost too late to clean!

I'm watching the Disney Splurge show right now. And I'm fast forwarding through so much of it! It's just not holding my interest. Oh well...maybe next Friday!

In other news, I ran 13 miles again this morning. It was supposed to be 15, but my training partner and I agreed that we were fine with 13. The race itself is 13.1. Why do more than necessary?!? :confused3 I can walk a little bit better after this morning's run than last time we did 13. Thank Goodness!

Hurray for feeling better today after running 13! :cheer2:

I didn't like the Disney Splurge show at all -- I vented over on ScottNY's PTR about all the things that bothered me about it. I am hoping for much better next week.

[SwansLoveDisney]

Sadly, house cleaning was on my list of things to do today -- I have done nothing but procrastinate and now it's almost too late to clean!



Hurray for feeling better today after running 13! :cheer2:

I didn't like the Disney Splurge show at all -- I vented over on ScottNY's PTR about all the things that bothered me about it. I am hoping for much better next week.

About the cleaning...darn! I guess you'll have to skip it this week. I would!

Oh, I looked on Scott's PTR, but there was too much to read! I'll have to go back and read...I'm sure your complaints are the same as mine!

[Charleston Princess]

About the cleaning...darn! I guess you'll have to skip it this week. I would!

Oh, I looked on Scott's PTR, but there was too much to read! I'll have to go back and read...I'm sure your complaints are the same as mine!

Or at least until tomorrow -- I did manage to make it to the grocery store -- that's at least something to show for my day.

Can't wait to see if our complaints were the same.

[Native NYer]

I'm watching the Disney Splurge show right now. And I'm fast forwarding through so much of it! It's just not holding my interest. Oh well...maybe next Friday!

In other news, I ran 13 miles again this morning. It was supposed to be 15, but my training partner and I agreed that we were fine with 13. The race itself is 13.1. Why do more than necessary?!? :confused3 I can walk a little bit better after this morning's run than last time we did 13. Thank Goodness!

Congrats on running 13 miles!!!!

[SwansLoveDisney]

Or at least until tomorrow -- I did manage to make it to the grocery store -- that's at least something to show for my day.

Can't wait to see if our complaints were the same.

Cleaning on Sunday? Yuck!

Good work going to the grocery store! I love grocery shopping. I'll take that over cleaning any day.

Congrats on running 13 miles!!!!

Thanks! :goodvibes

[SwansLoveDisney]

Can't wait to see if our complaints were the same.

Yep! Same stuff!

Disney on a dime will be much more my speed.

[Native NYer]

Is there another Samantha Brown special coming?

[SwansLoveDisney]

Is there another Samantha Brown special coming?

I don't think it's Samantha Brown, but next Friday night they're showing "Disney on a Dime."

It's probably the same people who did the show last night, but I'm not sure. But you probably didn't see that show, cuz you were busy!!! ;)

[scottny]

I don't think it's Samantha Brown, but next Friday night they're showing "Disney on a Dime."

It's probably the same people who did the show last night, but I'm not sure. But you probably didn't see that show, cuz you were busy!!! ;)

it better not be the same people, they bored me silly.

[Native NYer]

I don't think it's Samantha Brown, but next Friday night they're showing "Disney on a Dime."

It's probably the same people who did the show last night, but I'm not sure. But you probably didn't see that show, cuz you were busy!!! ;)

Oh I need to DVR next week's show.

And I did miss the one last night ;)

[SwansLoveDisney]

it better not be the same people, they bored me silly.

Yeah, that show was pretty boring.

I have high hopes for next week's show though. I'm sure the families will be better!

Oh I need to DVR next week's show.

And I did miss the one last night ;)

That's what I did...I Tivoed it. Yes, set your DVR!

[mrsksomeday]

Congrats on running the 13 miles, I walk 2 and am about dead :lmao:. I have the "Disney Splurge" on our dvr, now I don't know if I want to try to watch it or not if it bored all of you :confused3.

[Native NYer]

That's what I did...I Tivoed it. Yes, set your DVR!


I need to do that now. I wasn't thinking about my DVR yesterday. I wonder if they'll show it again.

[SwansLoveDisney]

Congrats on running the 13 miles, I walk 2 and am about dead :lmao:. I have the "Disney Splurge" on our dvr, now I don't know if I want to try to watch it or not if it bored all of you :confused3.

Thanks! :goodvibes This is all quite an accomplishment for me. Before I started training for this race, the longest race I had done was 3 miles! I never thought I'd actually make it to 13!

I say watch it! I didn't think the entire thing was boring. You can fast forward through the boring parts! Oh how I love Tivo!

I need to do that now. I wasn't thinking about my DVR yesterday. I wonder if they'll show it again.

I don't blame you for not thinking about your DVR! You had MUCH more interesting things to occupy your thoughts and time!!!

[Native NYer]

I don't blame you for not thinking about your DVR! You had MUCH more interesting things to occupy your thoughts and time!!!

Disney on a Dime should be interesting. I'm curious what suggestions they have for saving money at WDW.

[Charleston Princess]

Disney on a Dime should be interesting. I'm curious what suggestions they have for saving money at WDW.

Because heaven knows, there must be a secret to saving money that I, for one, have yet to discover!!!

[scottny]

About the cleaning...darn! I guess you'll have to skip it this week. I would!

Oh, I looked on Scott's PTR, but there was too much to read! I'll have to go back and read...I'm sure your complaints are the same as mine!
too much to read. :confused3

Oh I need to DVR next week's show.
And I did miss the one last night ;)
look over on my site. :rolleyes1

[SwansLoveDisney]

Disney on a Dime should be interesting. I'm curious what suggestions they have for saving money at WDW.

Yes, bring on the money saving suggestions!

In order to change DH's opinion of Disney World, I need to make this as money-saving as possible!

Because heaven knows, there must be a secret to saving money that I, for one, have yet to discover!!!

I have yet to discover that secret as well!

I know the ways to not save money:

1. Go in every shop you pass along your merry way
2. Drink lots of yummy beverages of the adult variety
3. Buy tons of clothes for the Disney trip, even though you already have a closet full of Disney-appropriate clothes
4. Spend mucho bucks on a trip planning binder
5. Buy every Disney guide book ever published

Just to name a few.

[SwansLoveDisney]

too much to read. :confused3



I'm trying to keep up, but it's so hard!

[Charleston Princess]

I have yet to discover that secret as well!

I know the ways to not save money:

1. Go in every shop you pass along your merry way
2. Drink lots of yummy beverages of the adult variety
3. Buy tons of clothes for the Disney trip, even though you already have a closet full of Disney-appropriate clothes
4. Spend mucho bucks on a trip planning binder
5. Buy every Disney guide book ever published

Just to name a few.

:lmao:

I have those down pat as well!!! I manage to do every single one on there -- including an addition to number 1: Go in every shop you pass along on your merry way AND go out of your way to stop at others that have become favorites.

[SwansLoveDisney]

:lmao:

I have those down pat as well!!! I manage to do every single one on there -- including an addition to number 1: Go in every shop you pass along on your merry way AND go out of your way to stop at others that have become favorites.

You are absolutely correct...there are some shops that just need to be looked at, whether they are out of the way or not!

You never know what you may need!

[MeMom]

Definitely you need to be commended for your 13 miles.

A friend of ours ran the Music City Half Marathon a few years ago, and we went and watched. I know the training he put into it, and I know I could never do it in a million years. My leg wouldn't take running one mile - it would be swollen up like a balloon and start floating me away probably!

On the Disney budget topic, a Disney dime is unlike a real world dime. I rarely spend any money for anything other than necessities in the real world. My kids will tell you how hard it is for me to give up 99 pennies for a fast food item, and how very rarely that happens, but I have no hesitation at a three dollar ice cream bar or a four dollar hot dog in Disney World.

Not only do I not hesitate to buy things, I encourage buying things. I can just see Jill eyeing something, and the next thing I know I'm standing at the register ordering two of everything!

I think Disney sprays some unseen mist on me as I go under the arches that makes me lose my sense of worries about any type of currency.

Wants seem to become needs when I'm there.
"We're going to need this for our next Disney party."
"I think I need this in my classroom."
"I might need another Mickey Mouse spatula."


So far, it hasn't gotten too bad, though, so I guess I'm okay. I've paid off the trips right after I've gotten back. I don't carry balances all year on a long ago trip.

And I still have plenty of room in the house for more!

[Nicole786]

I saw your comment about Forgetting Sarah Marshall, let me know how it is! Judd Apatow just can't make a wrong movie! He's like the Pixar of live action! LOL

[Native NYer]

Yes, bring on the money saving suggestions!

In order to change DH's opinion of Disney World, I need to make this as money-saving as possible!


I have yet to discover that secret as well!

I know the ways to not save money:

1. Go in every shop you pass along your merry way
2. Drink lots of yummy beverages of the adult variety
3. Buy tons of clothes for the Disney trip, even though you already have a closet full of Disney-appropriate clothes
4. Spend mucho bucks on a trip planning binder
5. Buy every Disney guide book ever published

Just to name a few.

I agree with you on how not to save money :lmao:

[Charleston Princess]

You are absolutely correct...there are some shops that just need to be looked at, whether they are out of the way or not!

You never know what you may need!

Especially at Disney -- things you never thought of suddenly become necessary items! ;)

[SwansLoveDisney]

Definitely you need to be commended for your 13 miles.

On the Disney budget topic, a Disney dime is unlike a real world dime. I rarely spend any money for anything other than necessities in the real world. My kids will tell you how hard it is for me to give up 99 pennies for a fast food item, and how very rarely that happens, but I have no hesitation at a three dollar ice cream bar or a four dollar hot dog in Disney World.

I think Disney sprays some unseen mist on me as I go under the arches that makes me lose my sense of worries about any type of currency.

Wants seem to become needs when I'm there.
"We're going to need this for our next Disney party."
"I think I need this in my classroom."
"I might need another Mickey Mouse spatula."


Thanks! :goodvibes

I absolutely know what you mean about dropping so much money at WDW for things you would NEVER pay that much for at home!

It's a good feeling to not worry about it. So if it is a magical mist they spray on us, I hope they keep it up!

I have so many things in my house that I "needed" at Disney world. And I love them all!

I saw your comment about Forgetting Sarah Marshall, let me know how it is! Judd Apatow just can't make a wrong movie! He's like the Pixar of live action! LOL

The movie was hilarious! I loved it!

You are so right...Judd Apatow has not disappointed yet.

I agree with you on how not to save money :lmao:

Now if only we could figure out how TO save money!

Especially at Disney -- things you never thought of suddenly become necessary items! ;)

Yep, like the adorable Mickey pizza plates which I bought. And have never used. :rolleyes: But will use SOME day. Cuz they're so cute.

[Native NYer]

The best way to save money at Disney is to just not go. But that's completely unacceptable.

[SwansLoveDisney]

I have a Pop Century question...

Do they have toasters in the food court?

I seem to remember them being there, but I can't tell if I'm imagining that.

I'm thinking that we're going to have bagels for breakfast when we're at WDW. And bagels are so much better when they're toasted!

[SwansLoveDisney]

The best way to save money at Disney is to just not go. But that's completely unacceptable.

You're absolutely right!

[Charleston Princess]

I have a Pop Century question...

Do they have toasters in the food court?

I seem to remember them being there, but I can't tell if I'm imagining that.

I'm thinking that we're going to have bagels for breakfast when we're at WDW. And bagels are so much better when they're toasted!

They did in October. I remember this because I spent the entire time then trying to remember if I had also seen them at POFQ.

So, yes, you will be able to toast your bagels! :thumbsup2

[SwansLoveDisney]

They did in October. I remember this because I spent the entire time then trying to remember if I had also seen them at POFQ.

So, yes, you will be able to toast your bagels! :thumbsup2

Thank you! That is good news! We're just going to get bagels, peanut butter, and fruit from Garden Grocer and eat that every morning.

I am 98% positive that they also have them at POFQ. Unless I'm crazy, I remember using one last time I was there.

[jordanyosh]

Hey Justine

Congrats on running the 13 miles........:thumbsup2

I'm glad I didn't watch the Splurge.....I guess I didn't miss anything.

[SwansLoveDisney]

Hey Justine

Congrats on running the 13 miles........:thumbsup2

I'm glad I didn't watch the Splurge.....I guess I didn't miss anything.

Hey Jed!

Thanks! :goodvibes

You're right...you didn't miss anything at all!

[jordanyosh]

Hey Jed!

Thanks! :goodvibes

You're right...you didn't miss anything at all!

i just had In and Out....my first burger in over 2 months.....it feels gross sitting in my stomach....OH....I did have onions on it....:rolleyes1

Later Joan.

[scottny]

i just had In and Out....my first burger in over 2 months.....it feels gross sitting in my stomach....OH....I did have onions on it....:rolleyes1

Later Joan.

:scared1: :eek: :scared1: :eek:

[jordanyosh]

:scared1: :eek: :scared1: :eek:

I know...I'm afraid of what will happen later tonight.....

[scottny]

I know...I'm afraid of what will happen later tonight.....

glad I am on the other coast. :rotfl2:

[jordanyosh]

glad I am on the other coast. :rotfl2:

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

My poor roommates....

[Nicole786]

When i was in Cali in and out burger was what it was about for the people i was with...I was more like ".....its a burger" :confused3 but i didn't get it with the sauce or anything

[scottny]

When i was in Cali in and out burger was what it was about for the people i was with...I was more like ".....its a burger" :confused3 but i didn't get it with the sauce or anything

I never had one I don't think and I lived there for 2 years.

[SwansLoveDisney]

i just had In and Out....my first burger in over 2 months.....it feels gross sitting in my stomach....OH....I did have onions on it....:rolleyes1

Later Joan.

I haven't had In n Out in forever! It is my first choice in fast food burgers, though! Why did you get it with onions?!? Did you not learn in Disney world?

:scared1: :eek: :scared1: :eek:

agreed

I know...I'm afraid of what will happen later tonight.....

No update, please!

glad I am on the other coast. :rotfl2:

:rotfl:

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

My poor roommates....

One of the cons of having roommates...

When i was in Cali in and out burger was what it was about for the people i was with...I was more like ".....its a burger" :confused3 but i didn't get it with the sauce or anything

I do love In n Out. I feel like it's much fresher than a lot of other fast food. I feel like i know what I'm eating when I eat there! The fries are awesome too.

I never had one I don't think and I lived there for 2 years.

You missed out!

[SwansLoveDisney]

I talked to my brother and he said that he and my SIL are making their Disney reservation today! :woohoo:

He asked me what requests he should make. One of the things I told him was to ask to be put far away from the petting zoo because the petting zoo is really stinky. Little does he know, there's no petting zoo at Pop! :rotfl:

This means that our official group is DH, my mom, my dad, my bro, my SIL, and me. We just have to wait for official confirmation from my MIL. :yay:

[mrsksomeday]

He asked me what requests he should make. One of the things I told him was to ask to be put far away from the petting zoo because the petting zoo is really stinky. Little does he know, there's no petting zoo at Pop! :rotfl:

OMG that is hilarious. The CM reservationist will be thinking "HUH :confused3, what are you talking about?" It is great you can mess with your brother like that :thumbsup2.

[SwansLoveDisney]

OMG that is hilarious. The CM reservationist will be thinking "HUH :confused3, what are you talking about?" It is great you can mess with your brother like that :thumbsup2.

After all the years of torture I endured with 4 older brothers, I have to sneak in little things like this when I can!

[pierresgirl]

Hey girl, I finally get through chance to slough through your report! I LOVE reading and go to the library once a week. Vegas looked fun, my co-workers brother is a Blue Man in Orlando, isn't that cool?! I still love the pic of the baby with the glasses on :rotfl2: . On to read more!

[pierresgirl]

As I always do before a Disney trip, I'm contemplating getting the Disney Rewards Visa...

Do any of you guys have this? If so, is it worth it?

Thanks!

I have and love it! Right now I have about $150 in points but plan on rackin' up a load more before we go and will use it on food. I use it then transfer the amount straight back to them so my interest is low. Plus you get 6 months interest free to pay for your trip.

lisa

Binder:

Spreadsheets
Daily itinerary
Travel confirmation
Disney confirmations
ADR confirmation number sheet
Addresses
Zip pouch with park tickets/vouchers/LGMHs
Restaurant menus


Thanks Professor J! Let me know when the next lesson is!
I don't know if anyone's waiting to buy their tickets on Southwest, but they're now taking reservations through October 30!

I still can't buy my tickets. Bummer!

I was looking online on the day they opened and the dates still weren't up so I called cause I'm :crazy: She told me to log off then back on cause they had JUST done it. The dates, times and proces were prefect but I looked at work and idn't want to use my cc on that computer. By the time I got home they were about $100 and then went up again the next morning :eek: SO we decided to stay an extra day and I got even CHEAPER flights :cool1: so we get to do xtra stuff!

i just had In and Out....my first burger in over 2 months.....it feels gross sitting in my stomach....OH....I did have onions on it....:rolleyes1

Later Joan.

Bad Jordan! Go stand in the corner!:mad: :rotfl2:

[Charleston Princess]

That is so funny about telling your brother to request not being by the petting zoo. You will have to let us know what he says when you talk to him again! :lmao:

[mkluvsmickey]

He asked me what requests he should make. One of the things I told him was to ask to be put far away from the petting zoo because the petting zoo is really stinky. Little does he know, there's no petting zoo at Pop! :rotfl:


:rotfl2: That is great!

[SwansLoveDisney]

Hey girl, I finally get through chance to slough through your report! I LOVE reading and go to the library once a week. Vegas looked fun, my co-workers brother is a Blue Man in Orlando, isn't that cool?! I still love the pic of the baby with the glasses on :rotfl2: . On to read more!

It's so cool that you know a blue man! I kinda forget that they are real people!

I have and love it! Right now I have about $150 in points but plan on rackin' up a load more before we go and will use it on food. I use it then transfer the amount straight back to them so my interest is low. Plus you get 6 months interest free to pay for your trip.




Thanks Professor J! Let me know when the next lesson is!


I was looking online on the day they opened and the dates still weren't up so I called cause I'm :crazy: She told me to log off then back on cause they had JUST done it. The dates, times and proces were prefect but I looked at work and idn't want to use my cc on that computer. By the time I got home they were about $100 and then went up again the next morning :eek: SO we decided to stay an extra day and I got even CHEAPER flights :cool1: so we get to do xtra stuff!



Bad Jordan! Go stand in the corner!:mad: :rotfl2:

Good job on the flights! It's awesome when you can justify another day by the flight prices!

[SwansLoveDisney]

That is so funny about telling your brother to request not being by the petting zoo. You will have to let us know what he says when you talk to him again! :lmao:

I'm going to call him in a minute...

:rotfl2: That is great!

It's payback!

[SwansLoveDisney]

I just called my brother to ask him how the reservation went. He hadn't called yet.

Then he asked about the petting zoo thing and I started laughing. I couldn't help it!

So I ruined my own joke. Oh well! It was funny for a minute!

[Charleston Princess]

I just called my brother to ask him how the reservation went. He hadn't called yet.

Then he asked about the petting zoo thing and I started laughing. I couldn't help it!

So I ruined my own joke. Oh well! It was funny for a minute!

Oh, drat!

You'll have to think of something else to do to him...:rolleyes1

[SwansLoveDisney]

Oh, drat!

You'll have to think of something else to do to him...:rolleyes1

I'll think of something!

[SwansLoveDisney]

Has anyone figured out how to fast forward a ticker? :confused3

If so, please tell me how!!!

I don't want to fast forward the whole time between now and the trip because we have lots of fun things coming. However, I would like to AT LEAST fast forward till I can make ADRs!

[mkluvsmickey]

I don't want to fast forward the whole time between now and the trip because we have lots of fun things coming. However, I would like to AT LEAST fast forward till I can make ADRs!

Let me know if you figure that one out.....:rolleyes:

[Charleston Princess]

Has anyone figured out how to fast forward a ticker? :confused3

If so, please tell me how!!!

I don't want to fast forward the whole time between now and the trip because we have lots of fun things coming. However, I would like to AT LEAST fast forward till I can make ADRs!

:rotfl2: That would be great!!! I am like you, not the entire time, but some of it would be nice!

[WDWRocksMySocks]

I had to come over and check out your pre-trip report! The first thing that immediately struck me was the look from your DH. I've gotten that look from mine too -- A LOT!! :rotfl:


I asked Gaston if he would like to go. All I got was "the look."

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P8270002-1.jpg


I absolutely love the pics from your October trip. It looks like you guys had a blast! Did you think MNSSHP was worth it?

[SwansLoveDisney]

Let me know if you figure that one out.....:rolleyes:

I'll definitely let you know! :rotfl:

:rotfl2: That would be great!!! I am like you, not the entire time, but some of it would be nice!

Yes, let's keep all the vacations and weekends. The rest of it can go!

I had to come over and check out your pre-trip report! The first thing that immediately struck me was the look from your DH. I've gotten that look from mine too -- A LOT!! :rotfl:



I absolutely love the pics from your October trip. It looks like you guys had a blast! Did you think MNSSHP was worth it?

Thanks for stopping by!

Oh, that look! DH shoots me that look every time I mention Disney!

MNSSHP was definitely worth it. The ONLY bad part about it was that it rained really hard almost the entire night. A lot of the goings-on were canceled due to the rain. But it was still worth every penny for the admission. It was a blast to get dressed up and trick-or-treat. And to see everyone else in their costumes, including the characters. I loved it!

If I knew where my TR went, I would give you a link to it so you could read about our time at MNSSHP. But I have no clue where it is! :confused3

[WDWRocksMySocks]

Thanks for stopping by!

Oh, that look! DH shoots me that look every time I mention Disney!

MNSSHP was definitely worth it. The ONLY bad part about it was that it rained really hard almost the entire night. A lot of the goings-on were canceled due to the rain. But it was still worth every penny for the admission. It was a blast to get dressed up and trick-or-treat. And to see everyone else in their costumes, including the characters. I loved it!

If I knew where my TR went, I would give you a link to it so you could read about our time at MNSSHP. But I have no clue where it is! :confused3

Haha, we do have a lot in common! I think DH is slowly learning to phase me out anytime I start to mention WDW or anything related.

Oh no, it rained on you? Bummer! I loved your costumes, btw. My sister and I are trying to decide what we should dress up as. We're really looking forward to it.

I'll have do some super sleuthing to see if I can find your Oct. trip report. I nearly lost my pre-trip report until I just put the link in my siggy.

[Charleston Princess]

Yes, let's keep all the vacations and weekends. The rest of it can go!


Sounds like the perfect plan!

[SwansLoveDisney]

Haha, we do have a lot in common! I think DH is slowly learning to phase me out anytime I start to mention WDW or anything related.

Oh no, it rained on you? Bummer! I loved your costumes, btw. My sister and I are trying to decide what we should dress up as. We're really looking forward to it.

I'll have do some super sleuthing to see if I can find your Oct. trip report. I nearly lost my pre-trip report until I just put the link in my siggy.

It's great that you and your sis are dressing up...it was so great to wear costumes at the Magic Kingdom. I'd wear a costume every day if I could get away with it!

[SwansLoveDisney]

Sounds like the perfect plan!

Great! Let's do it!

I wish!!!

[Charleston Princess]

Great! Let's do it!

I wish!!!

Sounds like a job for Tinker Bell :rotfl: !

[SwansLoveDisney]

Sounds like a job for Tinker Bell :rotfl: !

You are so right!

[SwansLoveDisney]

In honor of Earth Day, DH and I planted some trees today!

We planted 3 pygmy palms next to our pool.

Here are some pictures from Sunday, when we bought the trees and dug the holes. I don't have any pics of the finished product because it was dark when we finished!

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P4200016.jpg

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P4200017.jpg

DH is determined that our house will be the party house this summer, so that called for some backyard improvements. We also bought a super nice gas grill this weekend...so much easier than charcoal!

[scottny]

In honor of Earth Day, DH and I planted some trees today!

We planted 3 pygmy palms next to our pool.

Here are some pictures from Sunday, when we bought the trees and dug the holes. I don't have any pics of the finished product because it was dark when we finished!

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P4200016.jpg

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P4200017.jpg

DH is determined that our house will be the party house this summer, so that called for some backyard improvements. We also bought a super nice gas grill this weekend...so much easier than charcoal!

that is how skinny I would like to get. :rotfl2:

I have a long way to go. :sad2:

[SwansLoveDisney]

that is how skinny I would like to get. :rotfl2:


You and me both! :rotfl:

[scottny]

You and me both! :rotfl:

:rotfl2:

[jordanyosh]

Jessica,

Do you have misters in your backyard?

[MeMom]

That's a great way to celebrate! You look like you could easily have the party yard thing going there. Very nice.

I would love some palm trees in my yard, but they don't do so well around here. I settle for dragging out a fake one for the inside of the house when I "summer-ize" the house. I've been waiting for us to see a hint of spring, so I can put the winter stuff away and switch over, but it's been to cool and gloomy to be feeling summer stuff. Finally we're getting sun and warm temperatures, so this could be the weekend to dust off the old palm tree! :) Palm trees are something I really do miss from my St. Pete days.

I celebrated Earth Day in my classroom, too, by doing acrostics and an animal theme to tie in with Animal Kingdom's birthday celebration. Each kid chose an animal, drew a picture, and wrote a word bubble with the animal telling humans to help take care of their habitat. They had fun with it, and even though they never knew they were having a Disney day, I was enjoying the fact that I could at least be doing something halfway related to what all was going on in Animal Kingdom yesterday. I wish I could have been there. I'll put that on my list of special days to celebrate in WDW. I'm chipping away at that, and I'd be happy to have any excuse and add any special day to the list to plan a future trip.

Some of the resorts planted new trees yesterday, too. I'm going to see if I can find Pop's new tree(s) when we go in June.

I'm with you on the MNSSHP being worth it. Every Diser needs to go once, because it's so different than just a regular evening at the park. Very neatly themed.

[Charleston Princess]

You definitely have the backyard to be the party house this summer!

Too bad you live on the other coast or I would totally crash your parties! :thumbsup2

[WDWRocksMySocks]

Your backyard is going to look beautiful! Can't wait to see pics of the final product.

that is how skinny I would like to get. :rotfl2:

I have a long way to go. :sad2:

Too funny! :rotfl:

[JaxJags08]

Your backyard looks great; you'll definitely need to post the finished product! I'm trying to spruce up our backyard a bit since DD is always wanting to go outside now. We just adopted a dog, so I want to make it nice for him too!

This may be a stupid question, but do you have grass in your yard? I remember seeing a lot of houses without grass in AZ and NV. :confused3

[stagemomx3]

:woohoo: Party house!

[SwansLoveDisney]

Jessica,

Do you have misters in your backyard?

hey Jacob!

We do not yet have misters in the backyard. We have been debating those since we moved here. We might break down and buy them this year.

That's a great way to celebrate! You look like you could easily have the party yard thing going there. Very nice.

I would love some palm trees in my yard, but they don't do so well around here. I settle for dragging out a fake one for the inside of the house when I "summer-ize" the house. I've been waiting for us to see a hint of spring, so I can put the winter stuff away and switch over, but it's been to cool and gloomy to be feeling summer stuff. Finally we're getting sun and warm temperatures, so this could be the weekend to dust off the old palm tree! :) Palm trees are something I really do miss from my St. Pete days.

I celebrated Earth Day in my classroom, too, by doing acrostics and an animal theme to tie in with Animal Kingdom's birthday celebration. Each kid chose an animal, drew a picture, and wrote a word bubble with the animal telling humans to help take care of their habitat. They had fun with it, and even though they never knew they were having a Disney day, I was enjoying the fact that I could at least be doing something halfway related to what all was going on in Animal Kingdom yesterday. I wish I could have been there. I'll put that on my list of special days to celebrate in WDW. I'm chipping away at that, and I'd be happy to have any excuse and add any special day to the list to plan a future trip.

Some of the resorts planted new trees yesterday, too. I'm going to see if I can find Pop's new tree(s) when we go in June.

I'm with you on the MNSSHP being worth it. Every Diser needs to go once, because it's so different than just a regular evening at the park. Very neatly themed.

It's so fun that you bring out a palm tree in your house in the summer!

I will surely miss all the palm trees when we move back to Chicago.

Let me know if you find the new tree at Pop! It would be a fun thing to look for.

You definitely have the backyard to be the party house this summer!

Too bad you live on the other coast or I would totally crash your parties! :thumbsup2

I'm excited about the party house! I LOVE to have people over for dinner parties and pool parties!

You're invited anytime!

Your backyard is going to look beautiful! Can't wait to see pics of the final product.


Thanks!

Your backyard looks great; you'll definitely need to post the finished product! I'm trying to spruce up our backyard a bit since DD is always wanting to go outside now. We just adopted a dog, so I want to make it nice for him too!

This may be a stupid question, but do you have grass in your yard? I remember seeing a lot of houses without grass in AZ and NV. :confused3

That's not at all a stupid question! We have grass in the backyard. But in the front yard, it's rocks. "Desert landscaping" they call it.

It's so nice to have a better looking back yard. Makes me want to go out there so much more!

And like you, a big reason we like to keep our yard nice is for the pooches!

:woohoo: Party house!

And everyone's invited! :yay:

[stagemomx3]

And everyone's invited! :yay:

Arizona in the summer? Now that's HOT! ;)

[jordanyosh]

If you get misters along with your BBQ, your house will be the party house fo' sure.

It seems like misters would be hard to maintain....

[SwansLoveDisney]

Arizona in the summer? Now that's HOT! ;)

You're right...it is hot. Way too HOT!

[SwansLoveDisney]

If you get misters along with your BBQ, your house will be the party house fo' sure.

It seems like misters would be hard to maintain....

That is our dilemma...we've heard of people having lots of trouble with their misters. So if we buy them, we're gonna have to buy the super nice ones.

Good thing DH finally sold his old car yesterday!

[JaxJags08]

That's not at all a stupid question! We have grass in the backyard. But in the front yard, it's rocks. "Desert landscaping" they call it.

It's so nice to have a better looking back yard. Makes me want to go out there so much more!

And like you, a big reason we like to keep our yard nice is for the pooches!



Oooh...we would LOVE that!:thumbsup2 DH HATES mowing the lawn, but can't justify hiring a lawn service company when he can do it himself. Plus we are required to have a certain type of grass, which requires SO much water! It always seems like such a waste!

[jordanyosh]

That is our dilemma...we've heard of people having lots of trouble with their misters. So if we buy them, we're gonna have to buy the super nice ones.

Good thing DH finally sold his old car yesterday!

We had misters put in at Sweet T in Fresno. It was a disaster because, you guessed it, we got cheapies....

I hope you got some dough for the car....

[SwansLoveDisney]

Oooh...we would LOVE that!:thumbsup2 DH HATES mowing the lawn, but can't justify hiring a lawn service company when he can do it himself. Plus we are required to have a certain type of grass, which requires SO much water! It always seems like such a waste!

Yeah, the rocks are pretty much maintenance free!

And the grass area in the backyard is pretty small. We have one of those mowers that doesn't require gas or electric. You just push it and the blade rotates and cuts the grass. Pretty easy!

It'll be a shock for us when we move to Chicago and have to deal with a real lawn!

You're required to have a certain kind of grass? Must be an HOA rule! And HOAs certainly don't think about water consumption!

My DH is an engineer in the waste water treatment industry, so we are pretty water-conscious in our house. We try to only have plants that require little water.

We had misters put in at Sweet T in Fresno. It was a disaster because, you guessed it, we got cheapies....

I hope you got some dough for the car....

I think the cheap misters get clogged a lot with whatever junk is in the water. You probably had to use the misters all the time at Sweet Tomatoes, so I can imagine they get clogged constantly!

He got a couple thousand for the car. It wasn't worth too much. It had been in a few bad accidents and had a salvage title. I am so happy that it's out of our driveway! The money we got from that will offset our landscaping/grill purchases! And hopefully, DH will buy me a new outfit to wear for my race!

[JaxJags08]

Yeah, the rocks are pretty much maintenance free!

And the grass area in the backyard is pretty small. We have one of those mowers that doesn't require gas or electric. You just push it and the blade rotates and cuts the grass. Pretty easy!

It'll be a shock for us when we move to Chicago and have to deal with a real lawn!

You're required to have a certain kind of grass? Must be an HOA rule! And HOAs certainly don't think about water consumption!

My DH is an engineer in the waste water treatment industry, so we are pretty water-conscious in our house. We try to only have plants that require little water.



Yeah, it's the HOA. Most of the HOA's in our part of FL require St. Augustine grass. It's pretty, but needs a lot of water. We pretty much give up watering in the winter, because it freezes anyway. It really does better a little further south. We plan on looking for another house in the near future with no HOA, so we can make decisions on our own!

My DS is about to get a bachelors in Engineering. No work for her yet though, she'll be in a masters/phd program. I told her to enjoy college life and not to rush getting in to the workforce!

[Nicole786]

Great backyard pics!! Its a hot day today, and if I were home i'd be jumping in my pool, but since yours looks so clean and fresh and now, I think i'll take a dive, don't mind right?

[lisalonglash]

What a gorgeous yard you have! :thumbsup2

Is it October yet? Huh? :rotfl2:

[SwansLoveDisney]

Yeah, it's the HOA. Most of the HOA's in our part of FL require St. Augustine grass. It's pretty, but needs a lot of water. We pretty much give up watering in the winter, because it freezes anyway. It really does better a little further south. We plan on looking for another house in the near future with no HOA, so we can make decisions on our own!

My DS is about to get a bachelors in Engineering. No work for her yet though, she'll be in a masters/phd program. I told her to enjoy college life and not to rush getting in to the workforce!

Down with the HOAs! We're always getting letter from our HOA about dumb stuff. Like weeds in the rocks. I think the day they drove by our house was the day after it rained. So of course there was a weed!

Good advice for your DS! You can't beat college life!

Great backyard pics!! Its a hot day today, and if I were home i'd be jumping in my pool, but since yours looks so clean and fresh and now, I think i'll take a dive, don't mind right?

Come on over! The water might be a wee bit cold, but it's supposed to be 95 today!

What a gorgeous yard you have! :thumbsup2

Is it October yet? Huh? :rotfl2:

Thanks! It's not quite gorgeous yet, but we're working on it!

[Native NYer]

I love the palms you planted for Earth Day.

[abbybeth]

Hi! I found you from Leyla's new Pre-TR ... thought I'd drop by and get in on some of the fun you all are having!

[wvdisluv2]

And subbing! popcorn::

I LOVE "the look"!!!!:lmao: I've seen it many times from my DH;)
I'm fortunate that the Disney "bug" bit him too...although he is distracted by thoughts of golf....:confused3

Your yard is Beautiful! And your doggies are ADORABLE!!!!

Can't wait to hear more!

[SwansLoveDisney]

I love the palms you planted for Earth Day.

Thanks! Welcome back!

Hi! I found you from Leyla's new Pre-TR ... thought I'd drop by and get in on some of the fun you all are having!

Hi!

And :welcome:



And subbing! popcorn::

I LOVE "the look"!!!!:lmao: I've seen it many times from my DH;)
I'm fortunate that the Disney "bug" bit him too...although he is distracted by thoughts of golf....:confused3

Your yard is Beautiful! And your doggies are ADORABLE!!!!

Can't wait to hear more!

:welcome:

I wish the Disney bug would bite my DH! If you can tell me where you found the bug that bit him, please do!!!

[SwansLoveDisney]

My brother must have been doing some Disney research this morning.

He sent me something about La Nouba (as if I didn't already know it was there! :rotfl: )

So we may have a La Nouba evening!

If any of you readers have seen La Nouba, would you recommend it? I loved the Cirque du Soleil show I saw in Vegas and it would be fun to see another, but only if it's worth the money!

[jordanyosh]

Sorry haven't seen it, but just wanted to let you know that I'm still around.

[SwansLoveDisney]

Sorry haven't seen it, but just wanted to let you know that I'm still around.

:wave2:

Hi Jordan! Thanks for stopping by!

[JaxJags08]

I loved La Nouba so much that I've seen it 3 times! I saw it with my mom, dad, and sis. I then had to take DH (DBF at the time), and then we had to take his mom! I've never seen Mystere, so I can't compare the two. The only other Cirque show I've seen live is O.

Looking at Mystere's trailer, it looks like there may be a couple of similar acts to La Nouba (tightrope, trampoline). But I'm sure they are presented differently. La Nouba is a wonderful show with beautiful music. If you enjoyed Mystere, I definitely recommend going!

[SwansLoveDisney]

I loved La Nouba so much that I've seen it 3 times! I saw it with my mom, dad, and sis. I then had to take DH (DBF at the time), and then we had to take his mom! I've never seen Mystere, so I can't compare the two. The only other Cirque show I've seen live is O.

Looking at Mystere's trailer, it looks like there may be a couple of similar acts to La Nouba (tightrope, trampoline). But I'm sure they are presented differently. La Nouba is a wonderful show with beautiful music. If you enjoyed Mystere, I definitely recommend going!

Great! Thank you!

It must be wonderful if you've seen it 3 times!

I know my mom will want to see another Cirque show. And DH was sad that he didn't see Mystere, so he'll want to go. So as long as my bro and SIL can afford it, I see La Nouba in our future!

[JaxJags08]

Great! Thank you!

It must be wonderful if you've seen it 3 times!

I know my mom will want to see another Cirque show. And DH was sad that he didn't see Mystere, so he'll want to go. So as long as my bro and SIL can afford it, I see La Nouba in our future!

If/when you get tickets, try not to get them too close to the stage. There are some things that go on in the air and if you're too close you'll be craning your neck to watch everything that's going on. My first time going, we thought we did great by being in the 3rd row. But our necks hurt a little because we were staring up for so long!

[pierresgirl]

My brother must have been doing some Disney research this morning.

He sent me something about La Nouba (as if I didn't already know it was there! :rotfl: )

So we may have a La Nouba evening!

If any of you readers have seen La Nouba, would you recommend it? I loved the Cirque du Soleil show I saw in Vegas and it would be fun to see another, but only if it's worth the money!

Well I didn't see it but Cooper, Pierre and Bob did and LOVED it!!! We just saw Kooza (another Cirque show) 2 weeks ago- here's a pic!

http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x152/leyla625/IMG_0307.jpg

[Nicole786]

I definitely recommend La Nouba, it was a great show!

[SwansLoveDisney]

If/when you get tickets, try not to get them too close to the stage. There are some things that go on in the air and if you're too close you'll be craning your neck to watch everything that's going on. My first time going, we thought we did great by being in the 3rd row. But our necks hurt a little because we were staring up for so long!

Thanks for the tip! I will definitely keep that in mind when/if we get tickets!

Well I didn't see it but Cooper, Pierre and Bob did and LOVED it!!! We just saw Kooza (another Cirque show) 2 weeks ago- here's a pic!

http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x152/leyla625/IMG_0307.jpg

So cute!

I definitely recommend La Nouba, it was a great show!

Cool! Thanks!

[Native NYer]

I haven't seen La Nouba, but I've seen the Cirque shows in Las Vegas. If all the shows are like that, I would definitely see it. The only disappointment was Zumanity.

[TarzansKat]

Just wanted to say :wave2:

I am really enjoying your pre-trippie so far and can't wait to read more! :)

[MeMom]

Your run is coming up next week, right? Are you going to get someone to take some pictures of you? We'd love to see them.

[SwansLoveDisney]

I haven't seen La Nouba, but I've seen the Cirque shows in Las Vegas. If all the shows are like that, I would definitely see it. The only disappointment was Zumanity.

Is Zumanity the one with nudity?

I can't imagine those performers doing those performances without clothing!!!

Just wanted to say :wave2:

I am really enjoying your pre-trippie so far and can't wait to read more! :)

Hi!

Thanks for reading! :goodvibes

Your run is coming up next week, right? Are you going to get someone to take some pictures of you? We'd love to see them.

You're right! It's a week and a day away. Today was our last long run. Now it's just a couple short runs during the coming week. And then I'm off to Chicago for a weekend at my parents' house with a race thrown in.

I'm definitely going to get someone to take pictures of me. I need to have proof that I did it!

I will surely post them (if I look fabulous, that is. Yeah right! Who looks fabulous after running 13 miles?!) No, I will post them no matter what.

[Native NYer]

Zumanity is the adult show. And it not for me. I'll stick with Mystere and O in the future.

[SwansLoveDisney]

Zumanity is the adult show. And it not for me. I'll stick with Mystere and O in the future.

O is next on my list for Vegas!

[Charleston Princess]

I have never seen any of the Cirque shows -- so, what makes them wonderful? Because I feel like I must be missing something since so many people rave about them. Not Zumanity though -- that doesn't sound like my kind of thing.

[Native NYer]

O is next on my list for Vegas!

I want to see Ka at the MGM. Maybe in August.

[SwansLoveDisney]

I have never seen any of the Cirque shows -- so, what makes them wonderful? Because I feel like I must be missing something since so many people rave about them. Not Zumanity though -- that doesn't sound like my kind of thing.

Oh, they're SO amazing!

The things those performers can do are truly astonishing. The strength and control they have over their bodies...just unbelievable. And aside from that, the show I saw had parts that were funny and parts that were emotionally moving. I just can't say enough about it!

[SwansLoveDisney]

I want to see Ka at the MGM. Maybe in August.

That's right! You can see it very soon!

I think we'll be going to Vegas again soon with some friends, so I'll try to convince DH to see O with me!

[Native NYer]

That's right! You can see it very soon!

I think we'll be going to Vegas again soon with some friends, so I'll try to convince DH to see O with me!

Ohhh another trip! So much fun. What games do you like to play?

[SwansLoveDisney]

Ohhh another trip! So much fun. What games do you like to play?

I LOVE roulette, but I lose every penny I put on the roulette table. I don't know why I even try! But I can't help it...I love it!

I like blackjack and I usually fare pretty well with it, but it's very stressful for me. I get anxiety when I play!

And I like slots...but only the penny and nickel slots!

What about you?

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, they're SO amazing!

The things those performers can do are truly astonishing. The strength and control they have over their bodies...just unbelievable. And aside from that, the show I saw had parts that were funny and parts that were emotionally moving. I just can't say enough about it!

That does sound neat! Is there a storyline to the shows?

[SwansLoveDisney]

That does sound neat! Is there a storyline to the shows?

I can't speak for all the shows, but there was a story line to the show I saw.

You must see one if you can!

[Charleston Princess]

I can't speak for all the shows, but there was a story line to the show I saw.

You must see one if you can!

Hmmm...is it something children would like? We have two free nights in June (AK days) -- I wonder if La Nouba would be fun and different?

[SwansLoveDisney]

Hmmm...is it something children would like? We have two free nights in June (AK days) -- I wonder if La Nouba would be fun and different?

ABSOLUTELY! Leyla (Pierresgirl) says her son loves Cirque. They saw La Nouba and another one. I think it's pretty pricey though. And you would have to buy 4 tickets, right?

[Charleston Princess]

ABSOLUTELY! Leyla (Pierresgirl) says her son loves Cirque. They saw La Nouba and another one. I think it's pretty pricey though. And you would have to buy 4 tickets, right?

Yes, it would be four tickets for all of us. But there is that rebate check (that we haven't even received yet) that is burning a hole in my pocket. :rotfl:

[pierresgirl]

Yes, it would be four tickets for all of us. But there is that rebate check (that we haven't even received yet) that is burning a hole in my pocket. :rotfl:

He was 4 at La Nouba so you should definetely go! I *think* AAA has tix at a discount if you have them and want to use your rebate for something else. That's who we got our tix through.

[Charleston Princess]

He was 4 at La Nouba so you should definetely go! I *think* AAA has tix at a discount if you have them and want to use your rebate for something else. That's who we got our tix through.

Thanks for the heads-up! I did go look at the ticket prices and went :scared1: ! How far back are the cheap seats?

[JaxJags08]

Thanks for the heads-up! I did go look at the ticket prices and went :scared1: ! How far back are the cheap seats?

You'll probably be fine with cat3 seating, even though it's in the back. The theater is not that big and seating is in a semicircle around the stage. A few of the acts take place in the air, too.

Cat2 is about $15 more per ticket than cat3, but has very good views. I recommend getting this ticket if it is in your budget. The theater is designed really well, so I really don't think there's much of a reason to pay more than that.

[SwansLoveDisney]

He was 4 at La Nouba so you should definetely go! I *think* AAA has tix at a discount if you have them and want to use your rebate for something else. That's who we got our tix through.

Ooohh, I'm gonna check out AAA!

You'll probably be fine with cat3 seating, even though it's in the back. The theater is not that big and seating is in a semicircle around the stage. A few of the acts take place in the air, too.

Cat2 is about $15 more per ticket than cat3, but has very good views. I recommend getting this ticket if it is in your budget. The theater is designed really well, so I really don't think there's much of a reason to pay more than that.

Thanks for the tips! So helpful!

[SwansLoveDisney]

Thanks for the heads-up! I did go look at the ticket prices and went :scared1: ! How far back are the cheap seats?

Yep, those prices are high! I'm all excited about it now, though, so I hope everyone wants to go!

[Native NYer]

Yep, those prices are high! I'm all excited about it now, though, so I hope everyone wants to go!

I hope you get to go!

I'm considering getting tickets now. I just worry that it will be too much for my nephew to sit through.

[jordanyosh]

I have never seen any of the Cirque shows -- so, what makes them wonderful? Because I feel like I must be missing something since so many people rave about them. Not Zumanity though -- that doesn't sound like my kind of thing.

I saw a Cirque show about 7-8 years ago. Remember the non parade/fireworks person that I am? Well you can include Cirque among the things that aren't on my must sees....There must be something wrong with me.

[SwansLoveDisney]

I hope you get to go!

I'm considering getting tickets now. I just worry that it will be too much for my nephew to sit through.

I hope so too!

The shows are kinda long...

I saw a Cirque show about 7-8 years ago. Remember the non parade/fireworks person that I am? Well you can include Cirque among the things that aren't on my must sees....There must be something wrong with me.

Yep, there's something wrong with you. :lmao:

I get you on the parade thing.

But fireworks? I love fireworks anytime, any place.

And Cirque...you must be crazy!

[SwansLoveDisney]

I haven't had much time for Disney planning (obsessing) this weekend...we did tons of yard work yesterday. And we did lots of fun stuff with friends this weekend.

Here are some pics of the yard!

The new trees, lantanas, and boxwood beauties:

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P4270001.jpg

Lantanas:

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P4270005.jpg

Boxwood beauties:

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P4270004.jpg

And the rest of the yard:

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P4270007.jpg

Please do your best to ignore the large patch of dead grass where the dogs conduct their business.

Now all that's left to do is buy new gravel and put it down around the new trees and plants.

[MeMom]

It looks very nice! Start the grill. I'm on my way with steaks!

[SwansLoveDisney]

It looks very nice! Start the grill. I'm on my way with steaks!

Perfect!

See you in a few!

[jordanyosh]

Everything looks great.

Couldn't you just get in that pool right now?

[SwansLoveDisney]

Everything looks great.

Couldn't you just get in that pool right now?

I swam yesterday for the first time this year!

The pool is 80 degrees, which is a little cold for my taste, but after hours of yard work, it felt great!!!

[TarzansKat]

Alright, I am officially jealous of your backyard! :lmao:

DH and I currently rent, and I love our 2 bedroom apt. Perfect size for us and DS. However, when I see a backyard like yours I think ooooo....unfortunately for us, housing prices out here (New England area) are absolutely ridiculous!

Ah well. At least I can live vicariously through you. :thumbsup2

[jordanyosh]

I swam yesterday for the first time this year!

The pool is 80 degrees, which is a little cold for my taste, but after hours of yard work, it felt great!!!

80 degrees...cold? Wow...I forget that the temp is in the 90's/100's in AZ so..I guess 80 would be cool....

[SwansLoveDisney]

Alright, I am officially jealous of your backyard! :lmao:

DH and I currently rent, and I love our 2 bedroom apt. Perfect size for us and DS. However, when I see a backyard like yours I think ooooo....unfortunately for us, housing prices out here (New England area) are absolutely ridiculous!

Ah well. At least I can live vicariously through you. :thumbsup2

If we had it to do over again, I think we would have rented instead of buying when we moved from IL to AZ. We're only going to be here for a total of 4 years, and we've had to put a lot of money into our house. And the house prices have decreased here. So it seems that renting actually would have saved us lots of moolah!

I guess it's true that the grass is always greener on the other side!

80 degrees...cold? Wow...I forget that the temp is in the 90's/100's in AZ so..I guess 80 would be cool....

I know...when I was in Chicago, I would have loved an 80 degree pool!

[TarzansKat]

If we had it to do over again, I think we would have rented instead of buying when we moved from IL to AZ. We're only going to be here for a total of 4 years, and we've had to put a lot of money into our house. And the house prices have decreased here. So it seems that renting actually would have saved us lots of moolah!

I guess it's true that the grass is always greener on the other side!


Well that is too funny! :rotfl2:

We are very blessed. Our apartment complex is huge, sports a 2 mile walking trail and a fitness center. There are a few manmade lakes with koi fish and lots of wildlife. The only thing missing? A pool! Hence, the coveting of your backyard. :)

[Charleston Princess]

Your backyard and pool are looking fabulous! We needed to do yard work this weekend but it rained for most of it. We weren't able to so I am expecting the nasty gram from the HOA sometime this week.

[SwansLoveDisney]

Well that is too funny! :rotfl2:

We are very blessed. Our apartment complex is huge, sports a 2 mile walking trail and a fitness center. There are a few manmade lakes with koi fish and lots of wildlife. The only thing missing? A pool! Hence, the coveting of your backyard. :)

Now I'm jealous! Your apartment complex sounds great!

Your backyard and pool are looking fabulous! We needed to do yard work this weekend but it rained for most of it. We weren't able to so I am expecting the nasty gram from the HOA sometime this week.

Thanks!

I know all about those HOA letters...I just had to pull some weeds in the front yard today to avoid one!

[pierresgirl]

I love your pool! That is Bella's dream :cloud9: , well a "built-in pool" and a mansion with a maid and millions of dollars :rolleyes:

[jordanyosh]

I love your pool! That is Bella's dream :cloud9: , well a "built-in pool" and a mansion with a maid and millions of dollars :rolleyes:

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: Have her marry a NHL player.

[pierresgirl]

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: Have her marry a NHL player.


Um, excuse me, but I think you *know* her enough by now that she could possibly BE an NHL player herself :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: She says she wants to work for NESN or for the Bruins or Red Sox :thumbsup2 Dat's ma girl! Cooper, on the other hand is going to run off and join the circus somewhere :rolleyes:

[SwansLoveDisney]

I love your pool! That is Bella's dream :cloud9: , well a "built-in pool" and a mansion with a maid and millions of dollars :rolleyes:

Well, I have the pool. Still workin on the maid and millions of dollars! :rotfl:

[SwansLoveDisney]

Um, excuse me, but I think you *know* her enough by now that she could possibly BE an NHL player herself :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: She says she wants to work for NESN or for the Bruins or Red Sox :thumbsup2 Dat's ma girl! Cooper, on the other hand is going to run off and join the circus somewhere :rolleyes:

Let me know when Cooper joins the circus...I'll go see that show for sure!

[jordanyosh]

Um, excuse me, but I think you *know* her enough by now that she could possibly BE an NHL player herself :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: She says she wants to work for NESN or for the Bruins or Red Sox :thumbsup2 Dat's ma girl! Cooper, on the other hand is going to run off and join the circus somewhere :rolleyes:

True dat.

You aren't that far from ESPN headquarters either....

Well, I have the pool. Still workin on the maid and millions of dollars! :rotfl:

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Let me know when Cooper joins the circus...I'll go see that show for sure!

Then I would never see him.......:rolleyes1 :rolleyes1 ;) I know...I'm a hater.

[Charleston Princess]

I know all about those HOA letters...I just had to pull some weeds in the front yard today to avoid one!

None in our box today -- we escape their wrath for a little bit longer. :lmao:

[SwansLoveDisney]

Then I would never see him.......:rolleyes1 :rolleyes1 ;) I know...I'm a hater.

You wouldn't even go see COOPER in the circus?!? Despicable!:mad:

None in our box today -- we escape their wrath for a little bit longer. :lmao:

Good job!

I have a feeling we have one coming...we have a palm tree that needs to be trimmed. Unfortunately, it's a half mile tall so we need to hire someone to climb up and cut it.

[Native NYer]

Your yard looks beautiful.

[jordanyosh]

Okay...maybe I'd go...begrudingly....;)

[SwansLoveDisney]

Your yard looks beautiful.

Thanks!

Okay...maybe I'd go...begrudingly....;)

That's more like it!

[jordanyosh]

thanks Jackie.

[pierresgirl]

True dat.

You aren't that far from ESPN headquarters either....

Then I would never see him.......:rolleyes1 :rolleyes1 ;) I know...I'm a hater.

I know! I have a client who's daughter works for them and makes MAD money! Ummm, did clowns scare you as a child.... :jester: :crazy: :rotfl2:

You wouldn't even go see COOPER in the circus?!? Despicable!:mad:



Awww, thanks Julie! :lmao: Coming soon to an area near you....

[scottny]

Hi,
Just wanted to let you know I am un-subbing from all pre tr's. I have alot going on and am really busy and cannot keep up. I have the dates written down and will definitely be there for the tr. U can pm if u like.

[wvdisluv2]

Your yard is gorgeous!!! I love the pool! We have the river....but it includes fish, snakes, and goose poop:sad2:

[SwansLoveDisney]

Your yard is gorgeous!!! I love the pool! We have the river....but it includes fish, snakes, and goose poop:sad2:

Thank you!

The snakes and birds, I couldn't deal with. But the river sounds so nice!

[SwansLoveDisney]

I've been MIA for the past week. I was busy last week preparing for my trip to my parents' house. After a wonderful weekend full of family, friends, and too much food, I ran my first ever half marathon (13.1 miles) yesterday!

I finished in 2 hours, 30 minutes. The official results aren't posted yet, but I think it was actually a couple minutes under 2 hours 30 minutes. My goal was 2 hours, 45 minutes, so I was VERY happy with my results!

We had PERFECT weather for the race, which was amazing considering that it had been POURING rain Saturday and Sunday.

I was able to run the whole time, walking only when taking a drink of water and when I had to take off the long sleeved shirt that I started the race in.

Here are some pics!

Here's me running to the finish line. I'm the one in the pink shirt.

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/DSC00116.jpg

Here's me after the race with my cousin and two girlfriends who ran the race also.

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/DSC00128.jpg

Here we are doing what we do best (being dorks):

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/DSC00129.jpg

Everyone who finished got a medal. That was an unexpected surprise!

I flew back to Phoenix today and I could barely stand up from my airplane seat after sitting 3 hours. It's still a little bit difficult to walk. But with the soreness comes a feeling of great accomplishment!

[SwansLoveDisney]

This weekend also included a Disney meeting!

My mom, brother, sister-in-law, and I had a breakfast meeting Saturday morning to discuss Disney plans and ADRs. We quickly approaching the day when we will be able to make ADRs, so I wanted to get that all squared away.

The first order of business was breakfast. And what better than Mickey pancakes for breakfast!?

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P5020028.jpg

Next, we discussed ADRs. Everyone agreed on a day after Thanksgiving Liberty Tree Tavern dinner. I hope I can get that ADR!

Other than that, no one wanted any ADRs! My brother and SIL are pretty concerned about money, so it's counter service for them. DH and I might make a couple ADRs just for us.

Then we were onto the topic of rope drop. My brother and SIL LOVE to sleep. So I pretty much gave them a lecture on the importance of rope drop. I think they got my point, but we'll see!

We also talked about everyone's must-do's.

My SIL said that her only memory of Disney World is of Snow White's Scary Adventures (is that what it's called?). She has only been to Disney once as a small child. Snow White scared her so much that she blacked out! So she said that conquering Snow White without blacking out is on her must-do list this time. :rotfl:

It was a very productive meeting and I think it got everyone very excited for the trip!

[k_reile]

was your race in chicago? I guess there was a very big one in Cincinnatti this weekend too...I thought at first it must have been the same one...but that would have been a far enough distance from chicago for the cincy race.

[SwansLoveDisney]

was your race in chicago? I guess there was a very big one in Cincinnatti this weekend too...I thought at first it must have been the same one...but that would have been a far enough distance from chicago for the cincy race.

My race was in Palos Heights, a suburb of Chicago.

My training partner, however, did the race in Cincinatti. It was funny...we both trained together in Phoenix for races on the same day in Chicago and Cincinatti!

[JaxJags08]

Congratulations! That is a huge accomplishment! I started running, but it's not really for me. :confused3 Instead I just walk a couple times a day, for a total of about 3 miles. This seems to treat my knees better, though my right one is kinda sore as I type this. :lmao:

DH and I are not really morning people either and have never seen a RD, but I just found out we might be going to Epcot at the end of June. Now we will be sure to get our butts out of bed for RD since I heard the crowds are going to be kinda crazy!

[DisMomAmy]

Congratulations on the race! That's a huge accomplishment! :thumbsup2

[lisalonglash]

Wow! That is awesome!!! Well done :cheer2: I'm a good walker, but a really (really, really!) bad runner :rotfl2:

[TarzansKat]

Congrats on the marathon! You must feel good to have accomplished it. :goodvibes

And preliminary meetings are good, love the Mickey pancakes! You'll have to let us know how you like Liberty Tree, I haven't been there in ages.

And I've never, ever made a rope drop. Maybe this year....:rolleyes1

[Wingsofhalo]

Good Job On The Marathon, In Other Cases, Shun The No Believer Shunnnn :lmao:

[Charleston Princess]

Great job finishing the race!!! You don't even look winded in the pics afterwards! :thumbsup2

Disney planning: yeay!!! Okay, I have to ask, how did you make Mickey pancakes???

[SwansLoveDisney]

Congratulations! That is a huge accomplishment! I started running, but it's not really for me. :confused3 Instead I just walk a couple times a day, for a total of about 3 miles. This seems to treat my knees better, though my right one is kinda sore as I type this. :lmao:

DH and I are not really morning people either and have never seen a RD, but I just found out we might be going to Epcot at the end of June. Now we will be sure to get our butts out of bed for RD since I heard the crowds are going to be kinda crazy!

Thanks! :goodvibes

Yeah, my knees aren't so good either. I definitely have to give my knees a break. I like running, so that's a bummer.

So it's walking and elliptical for me!

My last trip to Disney was the first time I did rope drop and I loved it! You're right, you'll definitely want to try to get there for RD in June with the crazy summer crowds!

Congratulations on the race! That's a huge accomplishment! :thumbsup2

Thank you!:goodvibes

Wow! That is awesome!!! Well done :cheer2: I'm a good walker, but a really (really, really!) bad runner :rotfl2:

Thank you! :goodvibes

Congrats on the marathon! You must feel good to have accomplished it. :goodvibes

And preliminary meetings are good, love the Mickey pancakes! You'll have to let us know how you like Liberty Tree, I haven't been there in ages.

And I've never, ever made a rope drop. Maybe this year....:rolleyes1

Thank you! :goodvibes

I will definitely do a review on the Liberty Tree Tavern.

You have to do a rope drop...it's SO worth it!

Good Job On The Marathon, In Other Cases, Shun The No Believer Shunnnn :lmao:

Thanks! :goodvibes

Great job finishing the race!!! You don't even look winded in the pics afterwards! :thumbsup2

Disney planning: yeay!!! Okay, I have to ask, how did you make Mickey pancakes???

Thanks! :goodvibes

I was hurting after the race...it was hard to walk!

Oh, I have a cookie cutter kind of thing that I made the pancakes with. It got them at Disney World. They can be used for either eggs or pancakes.

[TarzansKat]

Thank you! :goodvibes

I will definitely do a review on the Liberty Tree Tavern.

You have to do a rope drop...it's SO worth it!


Thanks for the tip! Now that I'm staying at the WL, maybe I can actually handle being up early enough for rope drop.

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, I have a cookie cutter kind of thing that I made the pancakes with. It got them at Disney World. They can be used for either eggs or pancakes.

Adding that to my shopping list for WDW...Mickey pancakes would definitely start the day off right. ;)

[MeMom]

Great job on your marathon! You must feel a great sense of accomplishment. I imagine it was difficult to walk after a plane ride after all that!

I like the Mickey pancakes. You know we're into doing all that kind of thing around here. We even did a Cinco de Mayo theme (with Donald in his Mexican garb) this past weekend. This coming Sunday, for Mother's Day, we're doing a Princesses theme. The guys aren't going to be crazy about the dainty decor, but they'll be happy to wolf down about two dozen finger sandwiches, I'm sure.

Rope drop is so important. They will do well to follow your advice!

[mkluvsmickey]

Great job on the marathon! What an accomplishment! You should be very proud. :goodvibes

Love the Disney breakfast meeting! The pancakes look delicious. I need to get one of those mickey head molds. I've tried to make them without one before and they didn't turn out so great. :confused3

[pierresgirl]

:thumbsup2 :worship: HUGE congrats on the run!!!!! :thumbsup2 :worship:

Love the Mickey Head pancakes!

[SwansLoveDisney]

Thanks for the tip! Now that I'm staying at the WL, maybe I can actually handle being up early enough for rope drop.

You're so lucky to be staying at WL! :thumbsup2

Try to do at least one rope drop!

Adding that to my shopping list for WDW...Mickey pancakes would definitely start the day off right. ;)

That was the first time I used the pancake shapers! And I think I've had them for 3 years.

My other favorite thing that I have from WDW is Mickey pizza plates. There are six of them in the shape of slices of pizza. When you put them together, they form a circle, like a pizza! They all say different Italian phrases. Have I ever used them? No! But I still love them!


Great job on your marathon! You must feel a great sense of accomplishment. I imagine it was difficult to walk after a plane ride after all that!

I like the Mickey pancakes. You know we're into doing all that kind of thing around here. We even did a Cinco de Mayo theme (with Donald in his Mexican garb) this past weekend. This coming Sunday, for Mother's Day, we're doing a Princesses theme. The guys aren't going to be crazy about the dainty decor, but they'll be happy to wolf down about two dozen finger sandwiches, I'm sure.

Rope drop is so important. They will do well to follow your advice!

Thank you! You're right...it is a huge sense of accomplishment. More than I thought it would be.

The Cinco de Mayo theme is a great idea! And a princess theme for Mother's Day...perfect!

Great job on the marathon! What an accomplishment! You should be very proud. :goodvibes

Love the Disney breakfast meeting! The pancakes look delicious. I need to get one of those mickey head molds. I've tried to make them without one before and they didn't turn out so great. :confused3

Thanks you! I am very proud...I still can't believe I did it!

Yeah, the free form Mickey head pancakes don't turn out so well...the mickey head mold is perfect!

[SwansLoveDisney]

:thumbsup2 :worship: HUGE congrats on the run!!!!! :thumbsup2 :worship:

Love the Mickey Head pancakes!

Thank you!

And thank you! :goodvibes

[jordanyosh]

Here we are doing what we do best (being dorks):

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/DSC00129.jpg

Of course you know I would love this picture...:rotfl2:

Congrats on the race!!!!! AND beating your goal....:banana: :banana:

[jordanyosh]

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P5020028.jpg

Yum....I'm hungry.

Someone was suspiciously missing from your planning session...:rolleyes1

I would make ADRs and just cancel the ones you don't want later, especially since it's a busy weekend. This info comes from TG Jordan.

[stagemomx3]

I love the Mickey pankcakes.

[mrsksomeday]

Congratulations!!!:hug:

[SwansLoveDisney]

Of course you know I would love this picture...:rotfl2:

Congrats on the race!!!!! AND beating your goal....:banana: :banana:

It wasn't even my idea to pose like that. My cousin yelled out "running pose", and we all obliged. I guess if runs in the family!

Thanks!

Yum....I'm hungry.

Someone was suspiciously missing from your planning session...:rolleyes1

I would make ADRs and just cancel the ones you don't want later, especially since it's a busy weekend. This info comes from TG Jordan.

My DH didn't come with me for the weekend. We have to split up our visits to our respective "homes" cuz my fam is in Chicago, his dad is in Cali, and his mom is in Washington state.

If he had come with me, he would have had to be a part of the meeting!

I'm gonna make some ADRs for me, my DH, and my MIL and like you said, just cancel them if needed.

I love the Mickey pankcakes.

Thanks! :goodvibes

Congratulations!!!:hug:

Thank you! :goodvibes

[Tanya90210]

I'm in :) Looks like some good plans so far :) I love your MNSSHP costumes!!

[SwansLoveDisney]

I'm in :) Looks like some good plans so far :) I love your MNSSHP costumes!!

Hello!

:welcome:

Thanks!

[SwansLoveDisney]

While I was "home" over the weekend, my brother gave me the pages he created for my Disney binder!

Here are some pics. I'm sorry about the blurriness...I had to take some without flash so the pages wouldn't glare.

Oh, and the erased spots are where my brother put our last names.

Here is the cover of the binder: (erasing the last names really took away from the look of the cover. Bummer!)

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P5080005-1-1.jpg

The alternate cover: (this one was a joke, but i like it!)

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P5080016-1.jpg

The spine of the binder:

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P5080009-1.jpg

And a random page for the binder that will be used for a scrapbooking background!

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/julieswanster/P5080002.jpg

My brother said he was having fun 3-D modeling turkeys. Yep, he's a dork too.

I love my binder even more now!

[Nicole786]

That binder looks great!!! I'm thinking of a binder, but I bring my laptop with me to Disney (not the parks lol could you imagine?) and I always did well with just opening up that file I have with all of the days info...In september I printed out the cards and I honestly never looked at them because I had it all memorized by that point! haha i've almost reached that with the orlando trip i've looked at it so many times!!

[jordanyosh]

The binder cover came out great.....:thumbsup2

I don't mind the alternate cover either.

Maybe it can be the inside cover page.

[abbybeth]

Sorry I've been MIA ....

I need technical help on the pancakes. I've tried using various pancake molds we have around the house and just can't get it right! How you you get them to turn without having the uncooked side go everywhere? How are your edges so neat? How full do you "fill" the mold?

Congrats on the half! I'm hoping to get to the point where I can run one ... I ran track in high school and college, got way out of shape in grad school and now 2 years later I'm finally starting to run again .... I'm a long ways off, but here's hoping ....

and love the binder - we might start planning another trip and I immediately got excited about "binders and schedules and itineraries! OH MY!"

[SwansLoveDisney]

That binder looks great!!! I'm thinking of a binder, but I bring my laptop with me to Disney (not the parks lol could you imagine?) and I always did well with just opening up that file I have with all of the days info...In september I printed out the cards and I honestly never looked at them because I had it all memorized by that point! haha i've almost reached that with the orlando trip i've looked at it so many times!!

I think I'll probably have everything memorized by the time we go too! It is more than 6 months away after all! The binder is just a way for me to do more "planning". I also bring my laptop with me so I can upload my pics to it. So really, the binder is not even necessary!

The binder cover came out great.....:thumbsup2

I don't mind the alternate cover either.

Maybe it can be the inside cover page.

Thanks!

Or the back cover page?

Sorry I've been MIA ....

I need technical help on the pancakes. I've tried using various pancake molds we have around the house and just can't get it right! How you you get them to turn without having the uncooked side go everywhere? How are your edges so neat? How full do you "fill" the mold?

Congrats on the half! I'm hoping to get to the point where I can run one ... I ran track in high school and college, got way out of shape in grad school and now 2 years later I'm finally starting to run again .... I'm a long ways off, but here's hoping ....

and love the binder - we might start planning another trip and I immediately got excited about "binders and schedules and itineraries! OH MY!"

Hi!

the first couple pancakes I did with the mold turned out just like you described. But then I started leaving them on the first side for a LONG time. Oh, and I didn't put much batter in them either. Some Disney magic may have helped too...those molds were purchased at Disney World!

I thought I would never be able to do the half marathon. But I took the training slow and easy and I did it!

The binders are so much fun!

[pierresgirl]

Cool binder Julie! What are the 3D things?

[Charleston Princess]

The binder is amazing!!! I just love it!!! I like the turkey/Mickey head motif! :lmao:

[SwansLoveDisney]

Cool binder Julie! What are the 3D things?

Thanks!

Oh, the 3-D modeling is just the way my brother "drew" the Mickey heads and turkeys on the computer. Nothing is actually 3-D. Sorry to be confusing!

The binder is amazing!!! I just love it!!! I like the turkey/Mickey head motif! :lmao:

Thanks!

I thought the turkeys and Mickey heads were funny too! :rotfl:

[SwansLoveDisney]

Well, I don't have much trip planning news to report.

I'm just sitting here waiting...

And waiting...

And waiting...

For Disney to release the November park hours!!!!

Disney has not yet released the November park hours. Therefore, TGM has not yet told me where to go and when. Therefore, I can't plan my ADRs. And I will be able to make my ADRs in 18 days. How can I possibly plan ADRs if I have no idea which park I will be visiting each day?!?

I guess I'll just sit here and wait some more. And check the Disney website and the TGM website every 5 minutes. And hope each time that the November hours have been released.

Oh, I do have one exciting thing to report!

I happened to be driving past AAA today, so I stopped in to get some maps of San Diego, where DH and I will be spending my birthday weekend in August. While I was there, I asked the travel agent to price the Disney trip for me.

And guess what!

We're gonna save 106 dollars with AAA!!! :banana:

I told DH and he was, of course, very happy.

Little does he know that 106 dollars will promptly be spent on either
1) various NECESSITIES that I must purchase before the trip or
2) various NECESSARY souvenirs that I must purchase while we're there or even
3) some NECESSARY delicious adult beverages in World Showcase

Any way you slice it, that 106 dollars will be well spent!

Oh, one more thing...La Nouba is not happening for us this time. I guess I'm the only one who thinks it would be worth it. :confused3 I'm a little bit bummed, but I'm sure if I try really, really, really hard I can find SOMETHING else to occupy my time at WDW. :rotfl:

Okay, that's all for now!

[MeMom]

I'm just sitting here waiting...

And waiting...

And waiting...

For Disney to release the November park hours!!!!

Disney has not yet released the November park hours. Therefore, TGM has not yet told me where to go and when. Therefore, I can't plan my ADRs. And I will be able to make my ADRs in 18 days. How can I possibly plan ADRs if I have no idea which park I will be visiting each day?!?



Oh, I do have one exciting thing to report!

I happened to be driving past AAA today, so I stopped in to get some maps of San Diego, where DH and I will be spending my birthday weekend in August. While I was there, I asked the travel agent to price the Disney trip for me.

And guess what!

We're gonna save 106 dollars with AAA!!! :banana:






Since you seem to do lots of traveling to other places, maybe the wait won't be so bad. If we weren't going to WDW in June, it would sure seem like a loooong wait until our Thanksgiving trip.

We can make ADRs on May 26. Wonder what the chances of us getting an 11:00 (or close to it) Liberty Tree Tavern lunch on Thanksgiving Day? I think that would be awesome if we could eat there before it got crazy crowded, then leave and spend the rest of the day somewhere else.

[JaxJags08]

Hi!

Yay for money saved! That is always a great thing! We are going to Epcot in late June and I've been trying to figure out how much money it will cost to drink around the world. :confused3 DSis and I will be sharing drinks, so that will keep the cost down and my soberness up (hopefully). :thumbsup2

Sorry to hear no La Nouba! :sad2: But that just gives you a reason to plan another trip in the future - like you would need a reason!

[Charleston Princess]

Waiting can be the worst!

Hurray for AAA discount! Especially since 106 dollars will be spent on something fun! :thumbsup2

Too bad about La Nouba :(. Maybe next time?

[SwansLoveDisney]

Since you seem to do lots of traveling to other places, maybe the wait won't be so bad. If we weren't going to WDW in June, it would sure seem like a loooong wait until our Thanksgiving trip.

We can make ADRs on May 26. Wonder what the chances of us getting an 11:00 (or close to it) Liberty Tree Tavern lunch on Thanksgiving Day? I think that would be awesome if we could eat there before it got crazy crowded, then leave and spend the rest of the day somewhere else.

I'll feel much better about the waiting when I can make ADRs. If I can get the LTT ADR for dinner the day after thansgiving, I'll be SO happy. We'll get there too late on Thanksgiving day to have dinner anywhere except our resort or maybe downtown disney.

I think you have a good chance of getting LTT for Thanksgiving day if you're right on it the morning of May 26!

Hi!

Yay for money saved! That is always a great thing! We are going to Epcot in late June and I've been trying to figure out how much money it will cost to drink around the world. :confused3 DSis and I will be sharing drinks, so that will keep the cost down and my soberness up (hopefully). :thumbsup2

Sorry to hear no La Nouba! :sad2: But that just gives you a reason to plan another trip in the future - like you would need a reason!

Hello!

Sharing drinks will definitely cut down on the cost of drinking your way around the world. That sounds like a great idea!

Waiting can be the worst!

Hurray for AAA discount! Especially since 106 dollars will be spent on something fun! :thumbsup2

Too bad about La Nouba :(. Maybe next time?

Yes, waiting can be the worst.

But it can be the best too! I LOVE having something to look forward to!

[jordanyosh]

Tour Guide Jordan to the rescue...;)

I wonder what the hold up with the hours is?

If you have any more questions about SD, let me know.......

[SwansLoveDisney]

Tour Guide Jordan to the rescue...;)

I wonder what the hold up with the hours is?

If you have any more questions about SD, let me know.......

I have no idea what the hold up with the hours is...but if anyone finds out, PLEASE let me know!!!!

Do you know much about Carlsbad? We might spend a couple nights there...

[pierresgirl]

I cannot stand waiting! Bummer on no La Nouba, but at least, you'll still be in DISNEY :cool1: SD sounds fun, never been but have always heard wonderful things. AAA rocks!

[MeMom]

snowbell is going to be there, too, so we need to plan a meet. We hope to get a Candlelight Processional meal for the day after Thanksgiving. Were you planning to be in MK all day? Surely we can come up with at least ten minutes when we can cross paths. As it gets closer, we'll all compare plans and see what works.

I'll have my phone in hand bright and early on the 26th. I'll let you know what happens!

[SwansLoveDisney]

I cannot stand waiting! Bummer on no La Nouba, but at least, you'll still be in DISNEY :cool1: SD sounds fun, never been but have always heard wonderful things. AAA rocks!

AAA does rock! I don't know why I've never tried them before. :confused3

snowbell is going to be there, too, so we need to plan a meet. We hope to get a Candlelight Processional meal for the day after Thanksgiving. Were you planning to be in MK all day? Surely we can come up with at least ten minutes when we can cross paths. As it gets closer, we'll all compare plans and see what works.

I'll have my phone in hand bright and early on the 26th. I'll let you know what happens!

We are planning to be in MK all day the day after Thanksgiving.

We'lll be back at Pop for some part of the middle of the day. You're right, though...we'll figure out our exact times when it gets closer.

I'll be excited to hear if you get the LTT ADR. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you!

[jordanyosh]

I have no idea what the hold up with the hours is...but if anyone finds out, PLEASE let me know!!!!

Do you know much about Carlsbad? We might spend a couple nights there...

There's a Souplantation in Carlsbad..do you need to know anything else?;)

[jordanyosh]

Seriously, Carlsbad is a sleepy beach town.

I know the Old Downtown area is being transformed into a bar, restaurant and cantina type of place, but have not seen it so I don't know what type of crowd it attracts.

Carlsbad also has a great Outlet Mall...

It about 20-30 minutes from San Diego w/o traffic 45minutes-over an hour with heavy traffic.

[SwansLoveDisney]

There's a Souplantation in Carlsbad..do you need to know anything else?;)

That's it! I'm sold!

Seriously, Carlsbad is a sleepy beach town.

I know the Old Downtown area is being transformed into a bar, restaurant and cantina type of place, but have not seen it so I don't know what type of crowd it attracts.

Carlsbad also has a great Outlet Mall...

It about 20-30 minutes from San Diego w/o traffic 45minutes-over an hour with heavy traffic.

Sleepy beach town sounds like heaven to me...:cloud9:

And outlet mall on my birthday. Perfect!

I know it's not so close to SD, but it sounds like it will be SO relaxing!

Thanks for the info, Tour Guide Jacob!

[Charleston Princess]

Hi, Julie! Just checking in to see what's new with you!

[SwansLoveDisney]

Hi, Julie! Just checking in to see what's new with you!

Hi! I'm still here!

Life just got really busy in the past couple weeks!

I started taking classes at a yoga studio. It's my first attempt at yoga, and I love it, but it's taking up so much of my time!

Also, we had a friend in town this weekend. One of my closest friends. It was so much fun to catch up with her all weekend! We did yoga, hiked, got manicures, watched movies, and went out on the town. It was great!

I'm so close to being able to make my ADRs! 5 more days, I think! Keep your fingers crossed for me that I get Liberty Tree Tavern for dinner the day after Thanksgiving!

Our Greece trip is quickly approaching. I can't believe it! I feel like we started planning FOREVER ago and now it's almost here! :yay:

I think this week should be a little calmer, so I should be around the DIS a little more!

[TarzansKat]

Hi! I'm still here!

Life just got really busy in the past couple weeks!

I started taking classes at a yoga studio. It's my first attempt at yoga, and I love it, but it's taking up so much of my time! I haven't in a while, but I love doing yoga. Very relaxing and excellent for building muscle tone and strengthening your muscles.:goodvibes


I'm so close to being able to make my ADRs! 5 more days, I think! Keep your fingers crossed for me that I get Liberty Tree Tavern for dinner the day after Thanksgiving!

Awesome! I'll send some pixiedust: your way.

[SwansLoveDisney]

I haven't in a while, but I love doing yoga. Very relaxing and excellent for building muscle tone and strengthening your muscles.:goodvibes



Awesome! I'll send some pixiedust: your way.

You're right...yoga is great for strengthening. I've been sore in muscles that i know I never work out normally!

THanks! :goodvibes

[TarzansKat]

You're right...yoga is great for strengthening. I've been sore in muscles that i know I never work out normally!

THanks! :goodvibes

And, you'll start to feel so much better. I always thought of it as an internal massage. Now that I've got a good running/walking/weights work out down, I really need to get some yoga back in there. I'd forgotten how great it is, until we started talking about it. :thumbsup2

[Charleston Princess]

Hi! I'm still here!

Life just got really busy in the past couple weeks!

I started taking classes at a yoga studio. It's my first attempt at yoga, and I love it, but it's taking up so much of my time!

Also, we had a friend in town this weekend. One of my closest friends. It was so much fun to catch up with her all weekend! We did yoga, hiked, got manicures, watched movies, and went out on the town. It was great!

I'm so close to being able to make my ADRs! 5 more days, I think! Keep your fingers crossed for me that I get Liberty Tree Tavern for dinner the day after Thanksgiving!

Our Greece trip is quickly approaching. I can't believe it! I feel like we started planning FOREVER ago and now it's almost here! :yay:

I think this week should be a little calmer, so I should be around the DIS a little more!

Your weekend sounds like so much fun!

Pixie dust for LTT pixiedust: ! I bet since you are calling at 180 days you won't have a problem getting it -- I got everything I wanted at the 180 mark.

Hurray for Greece! What are the dates when you will be going?

[SwansLoveDisney]

And, you'll start to feel so much better. I always thought of it as an internal massage. Now that I've got a good running/walking/weights work out down, I really need to get some yoga back in there. I'd forgotten how great it is, until we started talking about it. :thumbsup2

I can already tell that my strength and flexibility are improving from the yoga. Now I just need to balance it with other forms of exercise, like you said.

Your weekend sounds like so much fun!

Pixie dust for LTT pixiedust: ! I bet since you are calling at 180 days you won't have a problem getting it -- I got everything I wanted at the 180 mark.

Hurray for Greece! What are the dates when you will be going?

Thanks for the pixie dust! I hope you're right!

We are going to Greece June 15 - June 24. I can't wait!

[TarzansKat]

Sorry to get off topic, but given that you trained for a marathon, maybe you can help me with this.

I started a workout where I run/walk in intervals. I do five minutes of walking to three minutes of running. Every time I run, I cramp up on my right side. I have tried stretching more beforehand and improving my posture while I'm running. That helped a bit, but I still cramped up during my last running interval. Any suggestions on how to alleviate this? Other than the cramping, I really feel as if I could run for longer, and it's put a damper on my workouts.

[Charleston Princess]

Thanks for the pixie dust! I hope you're right!

We are going to Greece June 15 - June 24. I can't wait!

Okay, now it's my turn to be jealous -- I'll be returning from WDW and battling the Disney Blues, and you will be enjoying white sand beaches, clear blue water, and a nice glass of ouzo. What parts of Greece are you visiting?

[SwansLoveDisney]

Sorry to get off topic, but given that you trained for a marathon, maybe you can help me with this.

I started a workout where I run/walk in intervals. I do five minutes of walking to three minutes of running. Every time I run, I cramp up on my right side. I have tried stretching more beforehand and improving my posture while I'm running. That helped a bit, but I still cramped up during my last running interval. Any suggestions on how to alleviate this? Other than the cramping, I really feel as if I could run for longer, and it's put a damper on my workouts.

Not only are you asking a runner, but you're also asking a physical therapist this question!

My advice is to decrease your running intervals to 2 minutes for now. Start with a five minute walking interval, then stretch both sides. I'd put your arms up over your head and then lean to one side for 30 seconds, then the other for 30 seconds. Do this 2 or 3 times to each side, then do your 2 minute running interval. If and when you do get a cramp, keep running if you can and lean into the cramp instead of trying to stretch it out. While leaning into it, grab the skin over the cramp and hold it until it alleviates.

Be sure you're eating bananas (for potassium) and other foods/drinks with electrolytes. But stay away from Gatorade cuz it has way too much sugar!

I hope this helps!

Okay, now it's my turn to be jealous -- I'll be returning from WDW and battling the Disney Blues, and you will be enjoying white sand beaches, clear blue water, and a nice glass of ouzo. What parts of Greece are you visiting?

We are staying in Athens for 3 nights, Santorini for 2 nights, and Crete for 3 nights. When I read the guidebooks and I look at pictures, I can not believe we are going to see that in person. It's a dream come true.

And when I return, I will have your trip report to read!

[Charleston Princess]

We are staying in Athens for 3 nights, Santorini for 2 nights, and Crete for 3 nights. When I read the guidebooks and I look at pictures, I can not believe we are going to see that in person. It's a dream come true.

And when I return, I will have your trip report to read!

What a dream come true! I would love to visit Greece one day! One of my all-time favorite novels is The Moonspinners by Mary Stewart, and it is set in Crete! You MUST take lots of pictures to share with us!

Yes, you will have my trip report to look forward to! :lmao:

[TarzansKat]

Not only are you asking a runner, but you're also asking a physical therapist this question!

My advice is to decrease your running intervals to 2 minutes for now. Start with a five minute walking interval, then stretch both sides. I'd put your arms up over your head and then lean to one side for 30 seconds, then the other for 30 seconds. Do this 2 or 3 times to each side, then do your 2 minute running interval. If and when you do get a cramp, keep running if you can and lean into the cramp instead of trying to stretch it out. While leaning into it, grab the skin over the cramp and hold it until it alleviates.

Be sure you're eating bananas (for potassium) and other foods/drinks with electrolytes. But stay away from Gatorade cuz it has way too much sugar!

I hope this helps!


Wow, thanks! :goodvibes Who knew I was asking someone so qualified? :thumbsup2 I'll definitely try this for my workout today and let you know how it goes. :woohoo:

[MeMom]

We are staying in Athens for 3 nights, Santorini for 2 nights, and Crete for 3 nights. When I read the guidebooks and I look at pictures, I can not believe we are going to see that in person. It's a dream come true.

And when I return, I will have your trip report to read!

You are so fortunate getting to go to Greece! I have only seen its beauty in pictures, and I look forward to seeing yours.

I called for our ADRs yesterday. LTT was already full for Thanksgiving Day, but we did get it for the day before, so that's okay. We got Chef Mickey's for Thanksgiving, and we're doing Garden Grill on Friday. That one will hopefully be switched over to a Candlelight Processional Package at Garden Grill as soon as they announce CP opens up.

We will hopefully have a good little Dis meet sometime late in that week, because it's looking like snowbell and Nicole786 will both be there, too.

[SwansLoveDisney]

What a dream come true! I would love to visit Greece one day! One of my all-time favorite novels is The Moonspinners by Mary Stewart, and it is set in Crete! You MUST take lots of pictures to share with us!

Yes, you will have my trip report to look forward to! :lmao:

I will definitely take lots of pictures and I will share them with all of you!

I'm going to order that book from amazon tonight...it'll be good to read a book set in Crete on our way there!

Wow, thanks! :goodvibes Who knew I was asking someone so qualified? :thumbsup2 I'll definitely try this for my workout today and let you know how it goes. :woohoo:

Yes! Let me know how it goes!

You are so fortunate getting to go to Greece! I have only seen its beauty in pictures, and I look forward to seeing yours.

I called for our ADRs yesterday. LTT was already full for Thanksgiving Day, but we did get it for the day before, so that's okay. We got Chef Mickey's for Thanksgiving, and we're doing Garden Grill on Friday. That one will hopefully be switched over to a Candlelight Processional Package at Garden Grill as soon as they announce CP opens up.

We will hopefully have a good little Dis meet sometime late in that week, because it's looking like snowbell and Nicole786 will both be there, too.

That's a bummer about LTT being full for Thanksgiving Day. It's good that you'll be there the day before, though!

Sounds like our Dis meet is growing! :goodvibes

[TarzansKat]

Yes! Let me know how it goes!



It just figures this would be the morning I got there so late all the treadmills were taken! :lmao:

So, I had to use the bike. But I will keep you posted and thanks again!:thumbsup2

[SwansLoveDisney]

It just figures this would be the morning I got there so late all the treadmills were taken! :lmao:

So, I had to use the bike. But I will keep you posted and thanks again!:thumbsup2

Of course that would happen!

Try it out when you can!

[SwansLoveDisney]

Uh oh!

As soon as I woke up this morning, I called Disney Dining because my reservation window opened up today.

The ONLY ADR I wanted for the trip was dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern the day after Thanksgiving.

Well, there's no room at the Tavern. :worried:

I suppose we should make an ADR for LTT for later in the trip. However, Disney has STILL not released the November park hours, so I don't know when we'll be back to MK!

Is there any other good place to have an ADR in MK?

Why am I letting this stress me out??? :confused3

[MeMom]

Liberty Tree Tavern was booked for when I wanted it, too (Thanksgiving Day), but we did get it for the day before Thanksgiving. We booked Chef Mickey's for Thanksgiving Day, and we've got Garden Grill for Friday. As soon as the Candlelight Processional packages come out, we're going to try to get one of those for Friday at Garden Grill, so hopefully that will work out.

It is crazy to think that six months out a place is already booked solid! If you're for sure going to be in Magic Kingdom that day, then I guess you could try Crystal Palace next.

[SwansLoveDisney]

Liberty Tree Tavern was booked for when I wanted it, too (Thanksgiving Day), but we did get it for the day before Thanksgiving. We booked Chef Mickey's for Thanksgiving Day, and we've got Garden Grill for Friday. As soon as the Candlelight Processional packages come out, we're going to try to get one of those for Friday at Garden Grill, so hopefully that will work out.

It is crazy to think that six months out a place is already booked solid! If you're for sure going to be in Magic Kingdom that day, then I guess you could try Crystal Palace next.

You're right...it is CRAZY that it's booked solid 180 days out!

Crystal Palace is a great suggestion. Would you do lunch or dinner?