My 2009 WDW Moms Panel Training Adventures, including my night in the castle!!!!

[DisneyJo]

Where do I start?????

In September I, along with around 20,000 other Disney fans, applied to be on the 2009 WDW Moms Panel. I really never thought I had a chance and was amazed to make it to round 2 and then again to the final telephone interview round. I'd convinced myself that I really mucked up the interview so was absolutely astounded when the call came on November 5th to announce that I'd made it :faint:

Fast-forward a few weeks and I'd chatted online with all the other 15 panellists, signed my contract and was waiting at Gatwick airport ready to fly to Florida.

I must admit to being slightly nervous, not only was I flying alone for the first time but I was also diving head first into the unknown. I had no clue what I would be doing for the next few days, where I’d be eating etc, a completely different trip to which I’m used to!!! Plus most importantly who was I going to talk to for the next 14ish hours :rotfl:

After a 10 hour flight, thanks to a head wind, I arrived at MCO and it was almost dark :eek: As we normally travel in August this was very weird for me!!!! I knew that I had a driver to pick me up but suddenly realised that I couldn’t remember where I was meant to meet him! I vaguely recalled A so I headed that way and I was right, there was Tim holding a VIP sign with my name on it :yay: Now I’m not sure if Tim realised that I hadn’t spoken to anyone in hours but by the end of our journey when I hadn’t stopped for breath I think he must have realised :lmao: He was such a lovely man and so easy to talk to.

I arrived at Coronado Springs Resort at approximately 7.30pm (12.30am my time) and checked in, a nice touch was the manager coming out to greet me and hand me my special envelope.

After wandering around for a while I eventually found my room in Casitas 1, I was on the fourth floor and literally only the second room from the elevator which led directly to the convention centre so a superb location. After a quick bite to eat I was in bed by 8.45pm. Now on a normal trip I would literally fall straight to sleep but having read my itinerary for the next few days sleeping was impossible, this became a recurring theme of the week!

Here are a few photos of the gorgeous newly renovated rooms at CSR. (sorry the photos aren't fantastic quality but I was very tired!)

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/001.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/003.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/005.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/006.jpg


I'd also like to say a big thankyou to my fellow Moms as some of the photos in this TR are there's!



Friday 5th December Part 1 here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29155793&postcount=52)

Part 2 here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29164057&postcount=77)

Part 3 here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29164073&postcount=78)

Part 4 here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29176414&postcount=109)

Saturday 6th December (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29194085&postcount=144)

Part 2 here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29216928&postcount=182)

Part 3 here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29216931&postcount=183)

Sunday 7th December (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29238292&postcount=235)

Part 2 here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29248362&postcount=268)

My Castle Stay!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29261217&postcount=290)

Monday 8th December - Videoshoot day (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29276182&postcount=344)

Part 2 here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29332057&postcount=395)

Part 3 here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29358418&postcount=430)

Tuesday 9th December (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29377333&postcount=467)

How to celebrate video link! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29825891&postcount=631)

[DearDaisyinDurham]

Hi, count me in!! Can't wait to read more!!

[askelton]

I can't wait for the rest of the story! :goodvibes

[T-i-double-g-err]

I'm an early adopter on this one! popcorn:: Another thing to distract me from doing work. :rolleyes1

[jcc0621]

I'm here Jo:yay: :yay: :yay:

[thewesterberg]

Looking forward to hearing your adventures!

[Hedy]

Oh, CSR looks nice.

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

I'm here, going back to read now. :goodvibes

[scrap4u]

Can't wait to read more!:cool1:

[Poohtigeey]

Hi! I've heard so much about you around here! I'm looking forward to reading about this adventure of your's! Congratulations too!

[jaycns]

I have been waiting to read this report for what feels like forever! :rotfl2:

I am glad that you are home safely. I bet your family is very happy to have you back. I cannot wait to hear all about your training and I have a real interest in your meet with Heidi and Figment too! :grouphug: Please clear your calendar for the next ten days in order to write. ;)

Anyway, welcome home and I really am excited to hear! :hug:

[ncsjodi]

I'm here too! Can't wait to read more!

[DisneyJo]

Thanks for reading everyone, it really is lovely when people take the time to comment :goodvibes

Jay I'll clear my Calendar just for you, there's nothing else important happening soon is there???? ;) :rotfl:

[Bev1016]

I'm so excited to read your report Jo! I love the pics of the Coronado Springs rooms! I'll be there tomorrow! :goodvibes

[DisneyJo]

Ooooh Bev have fun I hope you get one of the renovated rooms :goodvibes

[scottny]

Hi Jo,
I just wanted to save it. I will start reading it when I return from Disney. Or you could post somewhere else if you like. :rolleyes1

Can't wait to hear how your trip went.

[PrincessV]

Oh goody - you just caught me before heading out!

OMG, those rooms look amazing! Can't wait to see what other surprises you have in store!

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

That room really is lovely. I was never a fan of the room decor before but these renovated rooms are nice, I can now put CSR on my to be considered list.

[rentayenta]

:woohoo: The room is gorgeous! Can't wait to read the rest....So at this point you had not met any other "Moms"?

[carrieannie]

YAY!! Its started!!! :cool1: The room looks pretty! We were at CSR in October and our room didnt look like that!
Cant wait to read this!!! popcorn::

[scottny]

I'm so excited to read your report Jo! I love the pics of the Coronado Springs rooms! I'll be there tomorrow! :goodvibes

I will be there tomorrow . It's a small world after all.

[hlrababy]

Hey!!! Congratulations on the Mom's Panel!!! I applied both times, so I am going to live vicariously through you!! :lmao:

I can't wait to hear the rest of the trip!:thumbsup2

[Disneyland_Mama]

Yay, Jo! I can't wait to read all about your adventure!
:surfweb:

[DisneyJo]

Thanks everyone :)

Scott have a great trip, the rooms are even nicer IRL :thumbsup2

Jenny no I hadn't met any of the "Moms" yet :goodvibes

[englishrose47]

Bummer I didn't make page 1 but at least I think I'm on page 2 . Loving it so far !! Those rooms are elegant!!

[disneyhockeymad]

wahoo!I'm in... been waiting for this one :) That room looks fantastic... a big old double bed to yourself... I'm jealous!!

[rachel3]

just saving my place for later!!

[scottny]

Scott have a great trip, the rooms are even nicer IRL :thumbsup2

Thank you....

[OhMari]

Your room is gorgeous.
I knew we should have switched to Coronado.
I didn't want to share a room with my boys, so I just got them their own room at POR.
Looking forward to your report.

[SkyGirl]

YIPEE!!! You started it!! :thumbsup2 :banana:

I can't wait to read everything that you did, including meeting DD and I!!! That was one of the best parts of our trip and we were so sorry we couldn't all be together even longer! :hug: :woohoo:

[Figment's Friend]

Your room at Coronado is beautiful! :goodvibes Can't wait to hear all the details, this is going to be very fun reading!

[TyRy]

Welcome Back Jo!!! And I can't wait to hear what your agenda said that kept you awake....and the rooms look lovely!

[kaysmommie]

Hi Jo,
So glad you started a report and congrats again on getting picked as a Disney mom panelist! I tried too but I'm afraid what I wrote was so basic and generic. Anyway I'm thrilled that you made it :woohoo: and I'm so excited to hear all about training trip. The new rooms at CSR looks gorgeous.

[np4gp]

reserving my subscription to the thread - I was an applicant and I look forward to hearing more about what I will be applying for again next year :)

[Goofyluver]

I'm here Jo! :teeth:

Waiting. Not patiently. Hurry up.

There will be daily updates, no?

[srandsr76]

WOW!! I cannot wait to hear more!!

[C&G'sMama]

Welcome back and thank you for sharing. My partner was one of the finalists that did not make it,Marci, aka koolaidmoms. I for one have thouroughly enjoyed reading everyone's reports. It sounds awesome. I am helping her do "research" to apply again next year. We took a 2 day quick trip on the way to Miami earlier this week and we are going down in April and staying at CBR (a first time for us). It's a sacrifice but anything to help for next year:)
Looking forward to future installments of your adventures.

[MickeyMomTo2]

Can't wait to read more!

[Kimmy]

Congratulations!:cheer2: Thank you for sharing your new adventure! I can't wait to hear more. I love CSR and the renovations look great!

[Kimmy]

I will be there tomorrow . It's a small world after all.

:offtopic: Sorry to go off topic...Scott I can't wait to hear about your trip! I enjoyed your last TR!

[dismom9761]

Hi Jo!!:goodvibes I was wondering if you were back and then I saw your siggie!:yay: Glad your back home safely and can't wait to hear all about it.:hug:

[IluvXU]

I too cannot wait to see what this adventure entails for you!

[scottny]

:offtopic: Sorry to go off topic...Scott I can't wait to hear about your trip! I enjoyed your last TR!

thank you. I started it, click link in signature. also my October trip is up on here now click the ip-dip report in my signature.

Sorry to hi-jack Jo.

[SueM in MN]

a great start to your adventure.
can't wait to hear more.

[winkers]

So, what did you talk to your driver about?:rotfl:

[poohmomof5]

Thanks for sharing your awesome adventure! AND, more importantly, congrats on making the panel! :)

[Diamondintheruff]

Hi Jo!

Glad you're back safe and sound.

I wonder if your feet are back on solid ground yet? It must have been such a great time I know it would be hard for me to come back to real life.

[jns]

I'm here too
Looking forward to this all week

[carrieannie]

popcorn::

[Take Your Pick]

I'm subscribing!popcorn::

[DisneyJo]

Thanks for reading everyone, I promise I'll reply to every post from now on :goodvibes


Hi Jo!!:goodvibes I was wondering if you were back and then I saw your siggie!:yay: Glad your back home safely and can't wait to hear all about it.:hug: Amy!!!!!!! How have you been? I've missed you :hug:

So, what did you talk to your driver about?:rotfl: England, Alligators, Golf, Florida, etc etc :rotfl2:

I'm subscribing!popcorn:: Everyone this is one of my fellow Moms Whitney, thanks for reading Whitney :hug:

[DisneyJo]

After struggling to get to sleep last night I awoke after what I thought was a good nights sleep, I turned the light on to check the time and it said 2am :faint: I managed to doze off a few more times but at 5.45am I gave up and did some ironing, yes I was that bored that I ironed :rotfl:

I showered and dressed and decided to explore the resort, this was the view from my room.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/008.jpg

The decorations at CSR were beautiful!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/012.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/010.jpg


I was also excited to see this sign, it wasn’t there for me, as due to my flight time and the time difference, I flew in a day earlier than everyone else. But it meant that all my fellow Moms would be arriving shortly!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/022.jpg

It was a slightly chilly morning but having left England in frosty conditions I was in my shorts, I think people could tell I was English :lmao: The sun was just coming up and I had a lovely walk around the lake.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/017-Copy.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/020.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/021.jpg

Our first scheduled meet wasn’t until 4.30pm so I had all morning to play. I’d found out that 2 DIS friends would be in Epcot today so I arranged to meet them there. I arrived about 8.15am and found a bench to wait. One big difference I was noticing already was just how quiet December is compared to August!!! I soon spotted Heidi (SkyGirl) and her DD Figments Friend and after some hugs we chatted like long lost friends. We also actually remembered to take photos!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/023-1-1.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/024.jpg

First stop was for a ride on TT (yes I know my TFW friends will be amazed by that :lmao:) we then rode Soarin and the Land. We had so much fun and they were both wonderful, thanks so much for letting me join you :hug:

Christmas Decorations at Epcot
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/025.jpg

It was now time for me to head out as I had lunch reservations with 2 other DISers. I jumped onto the Monorail and decided I would walk from the TTC to the GF. It really was a beautiful day and walking along the beach was so peaceful and relaxing.

I was excited at seeing the Gingerbread House and it didn’t disappoint. I had lots of time to wander and the smell when the chimney smokes is just gorgeous.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/042.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/031.jpg

Lunch was going to be at the Grand Floridian Café with Angela (Askelton) and Jen (PrincessJV) I had met Angela in August but it was my first meet with Jen. Again both ladies were fabulous and we had a fun lunch with many laughs. One funny thing was when I showed my room key to Jen, I said that it was yellow and I’d always had a blue one before. She replied “That’s not yellow honey that’s gold” :rotfl:

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/038.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/045.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/044.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/043-1.jpg

All too soon it was time to leave, Angela kindly gave me a lift back to CSR. I decided that before going for a nap (which I badly needed) I’d see if any “Moms” had arrived and they had :yay: I really can’t remember quite who was there but many hugs were had and everyone was so friendly. Most of them were off to explore a park so I said I’d see them later and headed to my room.

Again I didn’t manage to sleep, my head was just buzzing with all the exciting things scheduled for our training (I will tell you what they are soon I promise) I suppose as a SAHM who golf’s and DIS’s all day my mind isn’t used to so much excitement :rotfl2: So again I gave up and got ready for our first meet…………………………


Continued here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29164057&postcount=77)

[Goofyluver]

I'm so jealous that you got to meet Jen and Ang!

Daily updates, right???

[askelton]

Your pictures turned out better than mine so I'm pinching them! :rotfl2:

[Disneyland_Mama]

You got to met my Flat Friend, Jen?? How fun! :banana:

I've seriously got to get to WDW in December someday soon! It looks so beautiful! :lovestruc

I agree with G-Luv, daily updates, right? :thumbsup2

[DisneyJo]

I'm so jealous that you got to meet Jen and Ang! I know, it was so great, BTW you're next :thumbsup2

Daily updates, right??? I'll try :goodvibes

Your pictures turned out better than mine so I'm pinching them! :rotfl2: Pinch away :goodvibes

I also have this one which I forgot to add!!!!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/044.jpg

I've seriously got to get to WDW in December someday soon! It looks so beautiful! :lovestruc
It is T and not as hot too, BTW no comment that I walked from TTC to GF? :rolleyes: :rotfl2:

I agree with G-Luv, daily updates, right? :thumbsup2 I'll try :thumbsup2

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Your morning CSR shots are beautiful!

What a shocker, riding Test Track first thing. Glad you were able to meet up with two Dis friends. :goodvibes

:woohoo: Focker meet, I bet you ladies had a lovely time.

[Disneyland_Mama]

It is T and not as hot too, BTW no comment that I walked from TTC to GF? :rolleyes: :rotfl2:

Pshew! :faint: I missed that! At least is wasn't blazin' hot and I wasn't with you. ;) :lmao:

[kaysmommie]

I can tell from your posts how ecited you are :) . I love the morning pics from CSR and the ones of the Gingerbread house at GF.

[jaycns]

Those sunrise pictures are just beautiful! I adore sunrise at WDW. I am going to make a coffee table book (I need a few more years worth of pictures first) of all of my sunrise pictures at while at WDW. It's such a peaceful place at the crack of dawn. :goodvibes

I also adore the shots of you and those two trouble makers (aka Figment and Heidi ;) ). I am so glad that you had a chance to meet up with them for a morning of fun. I wish I could have joined you girls!

Those CSR decorations do look so pretty! And I think the picture of the gingerbread house with the smoke coming out of it's chiminey is adorable.

Please feel free to keep your schedule clear and continue your writing. :rotfl: And when you hinted that something else might be going on this time of year? Didn't you notice, I left you TWO DAYS before Christmas to attend to your family, Christmas baking/shopping/etc before the holiday itself. :rotfl: :lmao: :rotfl2: I am not without a heart!:laughing:

Seriously though, thank you so much for taking the time to share this magical trip with all of us. I am excited to be reading what will surely be a trip to be remembered! THANKS JO!:hug:

[rentayenta]

:thumbsup2 Love the photo to word ratio. And aren't you the little DIS social :butterfly

[jns]

sounds like a great first day
isn't the boards a great place to meet real friends

any of the other Mom panel mons doing a report

[jcc0621]

[SIZE="4"]at 5.45am I gave up and did some ironing, yes I was that bored that I ironed :rotfl:

Sorry...I would never get that bored:lmao:

I showered and dressed and decided to explore the resort, this was the view from my room.


The decorations at CSR were beautiful!

::yes::

. We also actually remembered to take photos!

Who are you and what have you done with our FOcker Friend....we never remember to take pictures!;)


First stop was for a ride on TT

Nooooooooooooo, really:confused3 ;)

Lunch was going to be at the Grand Floridian Café with Angela (Askelton) and Jen (PrincessJV) I had met Angela in August but it was my first meet with Jen. Again both ladies were fabulous and we had a fun lunch with many laughs. One funny thing was when I showed my room key to Jen, I said that it was yellow and I’d always had a blue one before. She replied “That’s not yellow honey that’s gold” :rotfl:

:yay: on seeing ANgela and meeting Jen. Oooh, gold? Did you have charging priviligespopcorn::

Great update Jo...next one please:flower3:

[Figment's Friend]

Do I spy myself on your update? :yay: ;) That morning was so much fun! The decorations at GF are breathtaking, aren't they? Your lunch sounded lovely! :goodvibes can't wait for more!

[englishrose47]

Hi Jo allcaught up !! What an exciting first day !!2 Dis Meets and a MOM's Meet !!Iam anxiously waiting for more!!:surfweb:

[hlrababy]

Awww, I am having so much fun reading your report!!! I can't wait to hear more!!!

[dundeehunter]

Great start!:surfweb:

[Buzz2001]

Great pics! Thanks for posting!! Can you tell me if there was a fridge in the room and where it was located?

[Beckie w/ an IE]

More please, I NEED to hear everything. I applied but didn't make it past the first round. We leave for Disney on Monday, so I'll have to catch up then!

[princessjv]

Jo, I'm here! Yea to our meet! It was one of the highlights of my trip! Next time we will need more time to gab, gab, gab! I am so excited to read all about the weekend and even more PROUD of you! I feel like a proud momma! :worship:

[rachel3]

i'm still so excited for you!!! i can't wait to read the rest!!!!

[TheDISneyFamily]

My dearest Jo, I'm late, but I'm here!!! :yay: I'm so glad you are writing this TR! I feel like I know a WDW celebrity! :hug: I am so happy for you and I'll say it again, they couldn't have picked a better person from 'over there' to be on the Mom's Panel! :goodvibes You really deserve the honor and I know you will be great on the panel. Now I just have to think up some really good questions to ask you! :scratchin

[Muffinygood]

Hey! What's going on over here!?

(I made it. I'm late, but I'm here!)

MEL:lmao:

[DisneyJo]

Your morning CSR shots are beautiful! Thankyou Lessa :goodvibes

What a shocker, riding Test Track first thing. I knew you'd all be shocked :rotfl2:

:woohoo: Focker meet, I bet you ladies had a lovely time. We did they are so lovely!

Pshew! :faint: I missed that! At least is wasn't blazin' hot and I wasn't with you. ;) :lmao: I thought of you as I walked it, thinking T would never do this and she'd think I was a crazy Brit :rotfl2:

I can tell from your posts how ecited you are :) . I love the morning pics from CSR and the ones of the Gingerbread house at GF. Thankyou for reading and yes it was a very exciting trip :goodvibes

Those sunrise pictures are just beautiful! I adore sunrise at WDW. I am going to make a coffee table book (I need a few more years worth of pictures first) of all of my sunrise pictures at while at WDW. It's such a peaceful place at the crack of dawn. :goodvibes
What a lovely idea, I hope you do it :goodvibes

I also adore the shots of you and those two trouble makers (aka Figment and Heidi ;) ). I am so glad that you had a chance to meet up with them for a morning of fun. I wish I could have joined you girls!
Yes such trouble makers :rotfl2: It really was fantastic to meet them, they are both lovely!

Please feel free to keep your schedule clear and continue your writing. :rotfl: And when you hinted that something else might be going on this time of year? Didn't you notice, I left you TWO DAYS before Christmas to attend to your family, Christmas baking/shopping/etc before the holiday itself. :rotfl: I am not without a heart!:laughing: :rotfl2:

Seriously though, thank you so much for taking the time to share this magical trip with all of us. I am excited to be reading what will surely be a trip to be remembered! THANKS JO!:hug: You're welcome :hug:

[DisneyJo]

Love the photo to word ratio. And aren't you the little DIS social :butterflyThanks Jenny I always aim to please you with my photo/word ratio :rotfl2:

sounds like a great first day
isn't the boards a great place to meet real friends It really is, everyone I've ever met has been so lovely!

any of the other Mom panel mons doing a report Not that I know of but several are writing blogs, Anna has a fabulous one I think it comes up in google, I don't want to post the link just incase! (google disney moms panel Anna in the blog section!!!!)

Sorry...I would never get that bored:lmao: I know :rotfl2:

Who are you and what have you done with our FOcker Friend....we never remember to take pictures!;) I'm getting better at remembering :rotfl2:

Nooooooooooooo, really:confused3 ;) Did riding TT surprise you Janet? :rotfl2:

:yay: on seeing ANgela and meeting Jen. Oooh, gold? Did you have charging priviligespopcorn:: I did but only because I added my credit card :rotfl2: I did get a $40 gift card at checkin for a few breakfasts etc!

Great update Jo...next one please:flower3: Hold your horses :rotfl2:

Do I spy myself on your update? :yay: ;) That morning was so much fun! The decorations at GF are breathtaking, aren't they? Your lunch sounded lovely! :goodvibes can't wait for more! Thanks for letting me join you I had so much fun too :goodvibes

Hi Jo allcaught up !! What an exciting first day !!2 Dis Meets and a MOM's Meet !!Iam anxiously waiting for more!!:surfweb: Hi Rosie, it was a great morning :goodvibes

Awww, I am having so much fun reading your report!!! I can't wait to hear more!!! Thanks for reading :goodvibes

Great start!:surfweb: Thankyou :goodvibes

Great pics! Thanks for posting!! Can you tell me if there was a fridge in the room and where it was located? Hi Buzz, yes the newly renovated rooms did have a fridge, it was in the wooden unit that the TV is standing on. There were also 6 (I think) drawers in the unit too :goodvibes

More please, I NEED to hear everything. I applied but didn't make it past the first round. We leave for Disney on Monday, so I'll have to catch up then! Thankyou for reading, I'm sorry you didn't make it, definitely try again next year and have a great trip :thumbsup2

[DisneyJo]

Jo, I'm here! Yea to our meet! It was one of the highlights of my trip! Next time we will need more time to gab, gab, gab! I am so excited to read all about the weekend and even more PROUD of you! I feel like a proud momma! :worship: Hi jen, it really was so great meeting you and I agree it'll be for longer next time. Awwww a proud Momma you're so sweet :hug:

i'm still so excited for you!!! i can't wait to read the rest!!!! Thanks for reading Rachel :goodvibes

My dearest Jo, I'm late, but I'm here!!! :yay: I'm so glad you are writing this TR! I feel like I know a WDW celebrity! :hug: I am so happy for you and I'll say it again, they couldn't have picked a better person from 'over there' to be on the Mom's Panel! :goodvibes You really deserve the honor and I know you will be great on the panel. Now I just have to think up some really good questions to ask you! :scratchin Hi Michelle, thanks so much for reading and your words are just the sweetest, thankyou :hug:

Hey! What's going on over here!?

(I made it. I'm late, but I'm here!)

MEL:lmao: :rotfl2: Thanks for reading Mel, now we just need that Katt here and I'll post the next installment :rolleyes1 :rotfl2:

[DisneyJo]

I made my way down to Rixs Bar at about 4.15pm, this was our first scheduled meet and the first time we would meet all the panellists and our team leaders Laura and Leanne. More hugs and introductions were made and after a little while we were led into the bar. The first thing I spied was a bright light attached to a camera :eek: OMG I didn’t realise we’d be chucked in at the deep end. I walked in with such a silly smile on my face, which kept appearing every time the camera was around :rotfl: I was introduced to several non-panel members and it really is hazy who they were or what they did within the Disney Company but they were very pleasant. At one point I laughed a bit hard and chucked my head backwards not realising the camera man was behind me, wow that camera is hard because that hurt :lmao: One of the panellists, Kay, had bought us all snowman Mickey ears with Mom embroidered on the back, she is such a sweetie and some of us posed wearing them.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/n1623278992_72513_6538.jpg

After a few drinks and some nibbles we were led to our private bus, the driver was Tim who picked me up from the airport the day before :) We were driven to MK, entering via the back entrance, all of us were amazed to see behind the scenes and were soon told that photos weren’t allowed!!!!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/n1623278992_72515_7030.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/046.jpg

A guide met us and led us to………………………….





















Tour…………………………………..
























Cinderella Castle Suite!!!!!!!!!


We were split into 2 groups as the suite isn’t large enough to hold our party, which was up to about 25 people. Also the elevator would never have fitted us all in! I was in the first group and we were all so excited to view such an amazing place. I took tons of photos so I hope I don’t bore you!

In the lobby downstairs
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/047.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/048.jpg

As you get out of the elevator upstairs.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/051.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/052.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/053.jpg

The actual suite.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/055.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/056.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/058.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/062.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/064.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/077.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/059.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/078.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/079.jpg



Continued here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29164073&postcount=78)

[DisneyJo]

The ceiling
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/063.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/057.jpg

Our friendly cameraman.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/Camera.jpg

The ensuite area!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/066.jpg
The ceiling twinkled.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/065.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/075.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/074.jpg

We had to be silly!
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/073.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/070.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/072.jpg

And some final ones of us.

Margaret and I
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/060.jpg

The group
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/061.jpg



And that’s where I’m going to leave you for now :goodvibes



Continued here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29176414&postcount=109)

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Beautiful! :love:

[TyRy]

Lovely pictures of the suite Jo - how very exciting!

[rentayenta]

Pure magic! pixiedust:

[Muffinygood]

Thanks Jo. It was ALMOST like being there!

MEL

[askelton]

How beautiful! :goodvibes

[T-i-double-g-err]

Great picture Jo! :thumbsup2

[NotSoEvilStepmother]

Subbing.:surfweb:

[englishrose47]

Oh Jo the pix are so beautiful!! I see you all sat on the THRONE!!:rotfl2:

[jcc0621]

Awesome!:goodvibes

[jaycns]

It's good to see you found a 'throne'.:lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl: I love your sense of humor. What a special treat! I am glad you took so many pictures! I loved seeing every one of them! :thumbsup2

[My sister's princess]

This is very exciting! I can' wait to read more. Thank you for sharing this with us.

[Goofyluver]

:faint:

You. Are. So. Lucky.

Can I be your best friend?

[DisneyJo]

Glad you all liked the photos, I actually have more but didn't want to over do it :rotfl:

Glad you liked the "throne" photos, we couldn't resist :rotfl:

Jen yes you can be my best friend :rotfl2:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Glad you all liked the photos, I actually have more but didn't want to over do it :rotfl:

Glad you liked the "throne" photos, we couldn't resist :rotfl:

Jen yes you can be my best friend :rotfl2:

Pleas Jo, feel free to over do it. :cutie:

[ktmetke]

I'm loving your report so far and your pics of CSR and Cinderella's Suite are beautiful.....thank you for inviting me along on your journey!! :goodvibes

[rachel3]

i'm speechless!!!

[disneyhockeymad]

wow no matter how many pictures I see of that suite I still can't get over how amazing it is!! You're so lucky... I'm insanely jealous!!! :)

[TEminnie]

Sorry Jo! I've been MIA this week! I missed you SO though Jo!!!

How was your trip?
Ok, enough about you......

Did you get to read my poem?

:lmao: ;)

[Figment's Friend]

Oooo the castle! It's just stunning! thanks for sharing all this with us! I can't believe you got to tour it! You look like you're having a wonderful time!

[Julie*]

Subscribing!

[HomeschoolMama]

Hey! No fair starting this while I was out of town! ;)

I'll be back when I read the 20 pages of TFW that you all posted while I was gone!!! :surfweb:

[PrincessAlways]

Castle suite pictures.......beautiful!!!!!!! Love reading your experience!

[2ScottishPrincesses]

PHENOMINAL...what an amazing experience Jo. I am absolutely loving it:love: thank you for sharing with us honey

[bawsmom]

what an honor and how exciting :cool1:
i can't wait to read all about your adventures and to see how you like the resort.. it looks lovely!!

[Miz Diz]

How exciting!

Love the photo of you sitting on "the throne" in Cindy's suite.

[PrincessV]

The sun was just coming up and I had a lovely walk around the lake.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/017-Copy.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/020.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/021.jpg
GORgeous!!! :goodvibes

First stop was for a ride on TT
No way?!?! :rotfl:

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/043-1.jpg
Yay - I'm so glad you guys all got together! :goodvibes
Boo - I'm still sad I couldn't make it, too. :guilty:

We were driven to MK, entering via the back entrance
Where IS the back entrance? Or is that classified information?

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/073.jpg
:lmao: Love the "throne" pics!

[winkers]

You ironed out of boredom???

I think I'd resort to plucking my armpit haris one by one before ironing!
;)

[kykatt2]

Well I was Waiting for a Phone Call Invite... :snooty: But since THAT is not coming... FINE... I'll "Sub" and I'll get to it.. and your OTHER TR where ever I was ... along with 30 other "Fockers" by next August :goodvibes ... maybe;)

You DID STEAL MY SPOT on this panel ya' know:mad:
But if I had to lose it to some one... at least it's some one I sort of know:laughing:

[DisneyJo]

I'm loving your report so far and your pics of CSR and Cinderella's Suite are beautiful.....thank you for inviting me along on your journey!! :goodvibes Thanks for reading :goodvibes

i'm speechless!!! Wow :rotfl2:

wow no matter how many pictures I see of that suite I still can't get over how amazing it is!! You're so lucky... I'm insanely jealous!!! :) Thankyou, it really was pretty but much smaller than I imagined!

Sorry Jo! I've been MIA this week! I missed you SO though Jo!!!

How was your trip?
Ok, enough about you......

Did you get to read my poem?
Hi TE, I saw a poem you posted a few days ago is that the one?

Oooo the castle! It's just stunning! thanks for sharing all this with us! I can't believe you got to tour it! You look like you're having a wonderful time! Thanks FF, it really was pretty and thanks for :ssst: :rotfl2:

Subscribing! Welcome, thanks for reading!

Hey! No fair starting this while I was out of town! ;) Sorry Dawn, glad to have you here :goodvibes

Castle suite pictures.......beautiful!!!!!!! Love reading your experience! Thanks :goodvibes

PHENOMINAL...what an amazing experience Jo. I am absolutely loving it:love: thank you for sharing with us honey Thanks Kirsteen, keep reading though :rolleyes1

what an honor and how exciting :cool1:
i can't wait to read all about your adventures and to see how you like the resort.. it looks lovely!! Thanks for reading, CSR is a lovely resort and the newly renovated rooms are gorgeous!

Love the photo of you sitting on "the throne" in Cindy's suite. I know :rotfl2:

GORgeous!!! :goodvibes Thanks, the sun really was pretty that morning

No way?!?! :rotfl: Did I surprise you?????:rotfl2:

Yay - I'm so glad you guys all got together! :goodvibes
Boo - I'm still sad I couldn't make it, too. :guilty: Next time :thumbsup2

:lmao: Love the "throne" pics! Thanks :rotfl2:

You ironed out of boredom???

I think I'd resort to plucking my armpit haris one by one before ironing!
;) :eek: :rotfl2:

[DisneyJo]

Well I was Waiting for a Phone Call Invite... :snooty: But since THAT is not coming... FINE... I'll "Sub" and I'll get to it.. and your OTHER TR where ever I was ... along with 30 other "Fockers" by next August :goodvibes ... maybe;)

You DID STEAL MY SPOT on this panel ya' know:mad:
But if I had to lose it to some one... at least it's some one I sort of know:laughing: At last :rotfl2: Now get reading Missy so I can post some more :rotfl:

[DisneyJo]

After our amazing tour we waited outside for the other group to have their tour, we were just in time for the lighting up ceremony, wow the Castle is awesome covered in lights, I’d seen photos but nothing could compare to real life! Whilst we were waiting I feel a little prod and it is Jen, she found me :yay: I also got to meet her lovely DH and her cute DS and DD. I had a photo with her children who are just adorable and Tink (her DD) was wearing the cutest dress! It was so funny after they left as a few “Moms” said how unbelievable it was that the person who lived the furthest away met someone she knew :rotfl:

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/082.jpg

Once the other group had finished we made our way to Crystal Palace, we made quite an entrance with our camera crew and people were all wondering who we were :rotfl: The table next to mine were interviewed, luckily I escaped that!!!!

We had some lovely food, although to be honest I was so tired I didn’t know whether I was eating breakfast, lunch or dinner :lmao: The characters also visited us.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/084.jpg

Doug (DisneyDad) & I
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/untitled.jpg

Oh yes one thing I haven’t said is that not only were the 16 new panellists there but several of the 2008 ones were too. Officially there to help us with our training were Bri, Beth and Heather. And unofficially were Kim, Michelle and Bret. Bret actually came and found us at CP which was great of him :goodvibes

We were then ushered to the front of the park where we had VIP viewing for the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party parade. The whole of the Main Street Station was reserved for us! There were also lots of cookies (not that I was hungry) and also drinks and amazingly alcohol :faint: Yep alcohol in the MK!!!!!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/Wishes.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/088.jpg

Whilst we were waiting for the parade to start a few of us, including me, were filmed chatting and we were a bit silly pretending to point at stuff and laughing, it was just visual no sound!

Laura then said that she had something special to announce, she had 2 bags, 1 with the 2009 names in and 1 with the 2008 names in. One lucky person from each bag would be chosen to spend the night in Cinderella Castle Suite :faint: The 2008 winner could choose their date but the 2009 winner would be staying there on Sunday night.

Beatrice was chosen as the 2008 winner and Cathy as the 2009 winner. It was so wonderful that Cathy’s name was chosen as she was the only panellist there with her family (she had already booked her trip before being selected) and she was in floods of tears telling them!

It was then time for the parade, which was wonderful but unfortunately my photos didn’t come out very well, this was the only half decent one.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/109.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/1.jpg

We then had time for a little shopping before the fireworks and wow what an amazing view!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/144.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/140-Copy.jpg


We now had about an hour of free time before the bus left at 11pm, I was literally asleep on my feet and at first decided that I would find a chair somewhere and chill, then I thought nah I may miss something :rotfl: The other “Moms” couldn’t believe I was still going!!!!

First stop was BTMRR in the dark and it was great, there were lots of screams and laughs. We then headed for Haunted Mansion but the queue was too long so we somehow ended up on Small World :eek: We chatted the whole way through and probably annoyed the rest of the boat, whoops. BTW I can’t get over how awake I look in this photo!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/n1413412169_30158515_8402.jpg

Our time was almost up so we headed back to our meeting place, I found a comfy post and almost fell asleep leaning on it :rotfl: After exiting the park via a secret back exit we were back to CSR by about 11.30pm.

Tomorrow starts with a working breakfast at 8.30am, hope I get some sleep!



Continued here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29194085&postcount=144)

[winkers]

I hope you did get sleep! You must have been exhausted!!
I can't believe what great sets you had for the parade!

[kykatt2]

Tomorrow starts with a working breakfast at 8.30am, hope I get some sleep!

I can't WAIT to see what they call a "WORKING BREAKFAST"

[HomeschoolMama]

Thanks for reading everyone, I promise I'll reply to every post from now on :goodvibes You know that makes me want to post 15 messages with just one word on them... :lmao: "You promised you'd post, Jo!"

After struggling to get to sleep last night I awoke after what I thought was a good nights sleep, I turned the light on to check the time and it said 2am :faint: I managed to doze off a few more times but at 5.45am I gave up and did some ironing, yes I was that bored that I ironed :rotfl:

I showered and dressed and decided to explore the resort, this was the view from my room.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/008.jpg

The decorations at CSR were beautiful!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/012.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/010.jpg


I was also excited to see this sign, it wasn’t there for me, as due to my flight time and the time difference, I flew in a day earlier than everyone else. But it meant that all my fellow Moms would be arriving shortly!

It was a slightly chilly morning but having left England in frosty conditions I was in my shorts, I think people could tell I was English :lmao: The sun was just coming up and I had a lovely walk around the lake.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/017-Copy.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/020.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/021.jpg


It was now time for me to head out as I had lunch reservations with 2 other DISers. I jumped onto the Monorail and decided I would walk from the TTC to the GF. It really was a beautiful day and walking along the beach was so peaceful and relaxing.

I was excited at seeing the Gingerbread House and it didn’t disappoint. I had lots of time to wander and the smell when the chimney smokes is just gorgeous.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/042.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/031.jpg

Lunch was going to be at the Grand Floridian Café with Angela (Askelton) and Jen (PrincessJV) I had met Angela in August but it was my first meet with Jen. Again both ladies were fabulous and we had a fun lunch with many laughs. One funny thing was when I showed my room key to Jen, I said that it was yellow and I’d always had a blue one before. She replied “That’s not yellow honey that’s gold” :rotfl:

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/038.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/045.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/044.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/043-1.jpg

All too soon it was time to leave, Angela kindly gave me a lift back to CSR. I decided that before going for a nap (which I badly needed) I’d see if any “Moms” had arrived and they had :yay: I really can’t remember quite who was there but many hugs were had and everyone was so friendly. Most of them were off to explore a park so I said I’d see them later and headed to my room.

Again I didn’t manage to sleep, my head was just buzzing with all the exciting things scheduled for our training (I will tell you what they are soon I promise) I suppose as a SAHM who golf’s and DIS’s all day my mind isn’t used to so much excitement :rotfl2: So again I gave up and got ready for our first meet…………………………


Continued here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29164057&postcount=77)
It's so beautiful and how fun to meet 2 of our girls! :cloud9: I can't wait to read more... so I guess I'll stop posting and move on to the next update! ;)

[boysmom5150]

YEAH!!!!!I found you.
I was hoping you were going to do a TR on this and am VERY happy I saw the link in your siggie.
I am caught up(that means no time for TFW now:rotfl2: )
Your trip so far sounds amazing and like fun fun fun.
I would have been the ssame way with the driver after not talking for so long. Im a chatter box.
Love your room at CSR.
How nice you got to meet up with Angela and Jenn to lunch.
How great that you got to view the castle suite. Thanks for sharing the pics with us.
It the footage they are filming for a documentary that will be publicly released or for something internal??
Cant wait to read more..I say no more GOLF and get some more of this babee going.
Hope all is going well with you David and the girls:goodvibes

[bawsmom]

what a perfect viewing spot!! the pics were fantastic:goodvibes

looking forward to hearing about the "working breakfast" as well ;)

[jcc0621]

Whilst we were waiting I feel a little prod and it is Jen, she found me :yay: I also got to meet her lovely DH and her cute DS and DD. I had a photo with her children who are just adorable and Tink (her DD) was wearing the cutest dress!


:cool1:

It was so funny after they left as a few “Moms” said how unbelievable it was that the person who lived the furthest away met someone she knew :rotfl:

You're just popular:rolleyes:

Yep alcohol in the MK!!!!!

Oooh...we're tellin!;)


Tomorrow starts with a working breakfast at 8.30am, hope I get some sleep!

Wait, they actually want you to work!;)

[PrincessV]

Yep alcohol in the MK!!!!!
THUMP.


Hear that? That was Walt, turning in his grave! :rotfl2:

[askelton]

You all are being treated like such princesses! And a prince. :cool1:

[dsiind]

Doug (DisneyDad) & I
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/untitled.jpg

I look a bit crazed in that picture with you! People will think (i.e. know) that I am unbalanced!

[CoP Luv]

I have only gotten through the first installment but I love the new CS rooms!!! I stayed there last Dec. for our trip and they now look so different...in a great way!!

Can't wait to read everything else. Congrats on being on the panel!!! :thumbsup2

[CoP Luv]

I have only gotten through the first installment but I love the new CS rooms!!! I stayed there last Dec. for our trip and they now look so different...in a great way!!

Can't wait to read everything else. Congrats on being on the panel!!! :thumbsup2

[HomeschoolMama]

We had to be silly!
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/073.jpgJo on the throne... :eek:
That's hilarious!!! :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

[HomeschoolMama]

Okay- I'm all caught up. You may post again! :cutie:

[jaycns]

Another great update! I love that you had the train station all to yourselves. What a great place to watch both the parade and fireworks from.

I am very impressed that you were still standing. You didn't let jet lag, a jam packed schedule or anything else keep you from enjoying yourself!

How sweet the mom who had family with her ended up in the castle. What a special evening it must have been for all of them! I cannot wait to hear more. :thumbsup2

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

What great fireworks shots, how lucky to have the train station to yourself. :goodvibes

Way to go staying awake, I doubt I would have been able to. :cutie:

[DisneyJo]

I hope you did get sleep! You must have been exhausted!!
I can't believe what great sets you had for the parade! I was beyond exhausted Cherie and I'm afraid it didn't get any better :rotfl2: And those seats were fantastic!

I can't WAIT to see what they call a "WORKING BREAKFAST" :rotfl2:

You know that makes me want to post 15 messages with just one word on them... "You promised you'd post, Jo!" Cheeky :rotfl2:

It's so beautiful and how fun to meet 2 of our girls! I can't wait to read more... so I guess I'll stop posting and move on to the next update! Thanks Dawn, it was so great meeting Angela and Jen for lunch!

what a perfect viewing spot!! the pics were fantastic
looking forward to hearing about the "working breakfast" as well Thankyou, the viewing area really was fantastic, we were spoilt :goodvibes

You're just popular:rolleyes: :rotfl2:

Oooh...we're tellin!;) I know!!!!!

Wait, they actually want you to work!;)Fraid so :rotfl2:

A-HA!! I knew it... years ago, my ex and I were driving around, just turning down whatever roads exploring WDW property and wound up back there. Needless to say, we turned aorund a beat a hasty retreat and joked that that "was where teh Magic was kept." Now you know you were right :rotfl2:

THUMP.


Hear that? That was Walt, turning in his grave! :rotfl2: I know, we had these special glowing cups and couldn't believe that they were serving alcohol in them!!!!

You all are being treated like such princesses! And a prince. :cool1: I know, they really did :goodvibes

I look a bit crazed in that picture with you! People will think (i.e. know) that I am unbalanced! Don't be silly Doug you look great and thanks for reading :goodvibes

I have only gotten through the first installment but I love the new CS rooms!!! I stayed there last Dec. for our trip and they now look so different...in a great way!!

Can't wait to read everything else. Congrats on being on the panel!!! :thumbsup2Thanks for reading, the CSR rooms really are beautiful I especially like the new wooden partition doors :goodvibes

Jo on the throne... :eek:
That's hilarious!!! :lmao: Glad you liked the photo :rotfl2:

Okay- I'm all caught up. You may post again! :cutie: Well I haven't actually written it yet :rotfl2:

Another great update! I love that you had the train station all to yourselves. What a great place to watch both the parade and fireworks from. It really was great and even better that we had seats and didn't have to fight anyone for a view :rotfl2:

I am very impressed that you were still standing. You didn't let jet lag, a jam packed schedule or anything else keep you from enjoying yourself! I'm not sure how I did it, I so need my sleep at home :rotfl2:

What great fireworks shots, how lucky to have the train station to yourself. Thanks Lessa, the view was amazing!

Way to go staying awake, I doubt I would have been able to. :cutie: I'm not sure how I managed it, I suppose I didn't want to miss anything :rotfl2:

[SkyGirl]

Loving your report .......

....... and I'm being a very good girl!!!!!!!!!!:rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl:

The train station party looked like so much fun!

Can't wait to read more more more!!

:hug:

[DisneyJo]

Loving your report .......

....... and I'm being a very good girl!!!!!!!!!!:rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl: Thanks and yes you are :rotfl2:

The train station party looked like so much fun!
It was and so different to what I'm used to!!!!

[carrieannie]

I`m all caught up!! :goodvibes great pictures Jo!!!
I know excatly where your room was!! great location!!! :woohoo: I have a picture of me sitting on that fountain in the courtyard!!!

The castle pictures are great!!!! :cloud9:

Cant wait for more!!!! popcorn::

[momoftriplets]

Hi, Jo! I followed you from Jay's & Heidi's reports.

I'm so jealous you got to meet Heidi & Figment. I did get to meet Jen (Princessjv) a year ago. What a sweetie she is. I didn't get to go to WDW to do it, though. (We live about an hour apart.)

I'm so excited for your report. It's like having someone on "the inside". :upsidedow

[KatGarcia]

Ok I'm all caught up!
What a wonderful start!!!! You must have felt like disney royalty!
The rooms at CSR are just beautiful, honestly I think it's my fav resort!

Can't wait for more!

[Goofyluver]

:woohoo:

I'm your best friend!

I'm best friends with a Disney Mom!!!

:woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

Great update, Jo!

I love the pic looking down on Cindy's coach!

[englishrose47]

Hi Jo! Great pix of you and the Panel at MK !! I bet you were tired !! Looking forward to the workingbreakfast!! Question as A Disney Mom panelist what wiil you have to do?????

[T-i-double-g-err]

I'm caught up here! :thumbsup2 The mind boggles on the TFW thread. :faint:

I'm off to put DS6 to bed. It looks like it will be another day with dad tomorrow. He still has a fever, lower though. :sick: I may just bring him to the office and let him play on the Wii. That way I may get some work done in the morning.

TTFN! :wave:

[dismom9761]

Amy!!!!!!! How have you been? I've missed you :hug:



I am good!:goodvibes Just waay too busy.:rolleyes: Miss you too but Dis time is hard to find.:sad1:

I am all caught up on your report and loving it.The pics are great.:thumbsup2 Everything sounds like a whirlwind of excitement.:cloud9: Looking forward to reading more....:hug:

[hlrababy]

Great pics Jo!!! I love the Cinderella suite pictures!!!!! Its just like I was there!!

[Backstage_Gal]

Hi DisneyJo,

Lurker here, but I thought you might like this article in todays Orlando Sentinel:
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/orl-tourism1508dec15,0,4469403.story

[koolcatshelby]

Fantastic report! Can't wait for more:thumbsup2 Thanks for sharing:yay:

[DisneyJo]

I`m all caught up!! great pictures Jo!!! Hi Carrie, glad you're enjoying my TR, the fountains at CSR are very pretty aren't they :goodvibes

Hi, Jo! I followed you from Jay's & Heidi's reports.

I'm so jealous you got to meet Heidi & Figment. I did get to meet Jen (Princessjv) a year ago. What a sweetie she is. I didn't get to go to WDW to do it, though. (We live about an hour apart.)

I'm so excited for your report. It's like having someone on "the inside". :upsidedow Thanks for reading, Heidi and Figment were lovely I really hope you get to meet them one day and how cool you met Jen too :goodvibes And I'm not quite on the inside :rotfl2:

Ok I'm all caught up!
What a wonderful start!!!! You must have felt like disney royalty!
The rooms at CSR are just beautiful, honestly I think it's my fav resort!

Can't wait for more! Thanks for reading Kat, we were totally spoilt this trip and it's going to be hard to go as a regular guest :rotfl2:

:woohoo:

I'm your best friend!

I'm best friends with a Disney Mom!!!

:woohoo:

Great update, Jo!

I love the pic looking down on Cindy's coach! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Hi Jo! Great pix of you and the Panel at MK !! I bet you were tired !! Looking forward to the workingbreakfast!! Question as A Disney Mom panelist what wiil you have to do????? Rosie I was so tired but didn't want to miss anything :rotfl2: The panel answers questions from guests who are going to be visiting WDW, you e-mail your question in and we hopefully answer it! Go to www.disneyworldmoms.com to have a look!

I'm caught up here! :thumbsup2 The mind boggles on the TFW thread. :faint: Thanks for reading David and I hope your DS gets better!

I am good!:goodvibes Just waay too busy.:rolleyes: Miss you too but Dis time is hard to find.:sad1:

I am all caught up on your report and loving it.The pics are great.:thumbsup2 Everything sounds like a whirlwind of excitement.:cloud9: Looking forward to reading more....:hug: I hope things calm down a bit Amy, thanks for finding the time to read this though :hug:

Great pics Jo!!! I love the Cinderella suite pictures!!!!! Its just like I was there!! Thanks, we were all funny in the Suite as we all just couldn't stop taking photos :rotfl2:

Hi DisneyJo,

Lurker here, but I thought you might like this article in todays Orlando Sentinel:
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/orl-tourism1508dec15,0,4469403.story Thanks for that and no more lurking OK :goodvibes

Fantastic report! Can't wait for more:thumbsup2 Thanks for sharing:yay: I'm so pleased you're enjoying it, thanks for reading :goodvibes

[englishrose47]

I checked out the site on Moms panel! When do you start answering questions and can we request who answers us ??
Jo Don't forget who has always said you are THE BESTEST! I see someone is trying to steal my spot!!!:rotfl2:

[Sarilas]

I just found this and read the whole shebang in one sitting- too much to comment on all at once! But suffice it to say that it's an amazing read, and PLEASE inundate us with pics! It's all something most of us will never experience and it's so fun to live vicariously through you! :goodvibes

[ncsjodi]

Hey Jo!

Finally had time to catch up here. Still working on TFW thread! :rotfl:

Sounds like you had a great time! And there are two Hoosiers on the panel! How awesome is that?

The pics are great! I can't wait to see more and I'm glad you decided to keep going and not sit down for a nap! :thumbsup2

[Figment's Friend]

you had quite the VIP viewing for the parade and wishes!! :woohoo: and yes, you do look very awake! :rotfl2: :lmao: i'm loving this!

[DisneyJo]

I checked out the site on Moms panel! When do you start answering questions and can we request who answers us ?? Rosie you'll be able to click on my name and personally ask me a question, there is a filter though so not all questions get through!

Jo Don't forget who has always said you are THE BESTEST! I see someone is trying to steal my spot!!!:rotfl2:Don't worry Rosie you'll always be my bestest :hug:

I just found this and read the whole shebang in one sitting- too much to comment on all at once! But suffice it to say that it's an amazing read, and PLEASE inundate us with pics! It's all something most of us will never experience and it's so fun to live vicariously through you! :goodvibes I'm so pleased you're enjoying it, I'll add as many photos as poss :thumbsup2

Finally had time to catch up here. Still working on TFW thread! :rotfl: Glad you're here Jodi :goodvibes

Sounds like you had a great time! And there are two Hoosiers on the panel! How awesome is that? Ummmmm what are hoosiers? :rotfl2:

The pics are great! I can't wait to see more and I'm glad you decided to keep going and not sit down for a nap! :thumbsup2 I desperatley needed a sleep but everything was far too exciting :rotfl2:

you had quite the VIP viewing for the parade and wishes!! :woohoo: and yes, you do look very awake! :rotfl2: :lmao: i'm loving this! The view was fantastic and I still can't get over how little sleep I got :rotfl2:

[DisneyJo]

Again I struggled to sleep, I never have this problem at home, must be all the excitement! I was showered and dressed by 6.30am and after getting a hot chocolate took a stroll around the lake again. CSR really is very beautiful first thing in the morning.

Breakfast was at 8.30am in the conference room and a huge spread was laid out, I’m not really a hot breakfast eater so I just had some fruit and pastries. Whilst we were eating one of the “Moms” Kay stood up and told us she wanted to share a family tradition with us. She handed us each an envelope, in one was a $10 bill, another had $5 and the rest were $1 (so we were all winners) she does this every morning with her family but said that she could only afford to do it once with our group as there were so many of us :rotfl: I had a $ (Disney Dollar no less) but Tanya who was sat next to me had the $5!

Cathy then stood up and announced that unfortunately her family had been unable to change their flights so would be unable to stay with her in the Castle Suite the next day. This meant that she would pick her 5 roommates out of a hat. Not sure of the order but the names that came out were Anna, Diane L, Joanne, Kay and then lastly Tanya. She announced though that she would like to give her place to……………..











































Me :faint:


I didn’t know what to do, I was so grateful but didn’t want the other Moms to think badly of me. I decided though that I’d be silly not to accept, thank you so much Tanya :hug:

After all that excitement we then had an informal chat from 2 key Cast Members welcoming us and they told us some funny stories. It was then time to do our whistle stop resorts tour.

Excuse the silly face in this photo!
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/147.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/n1623278992_72523_9033.jpg

Angel was our host and he was very good. First stop was All Stars to view the new family suites, I can definitely see how nice it would be to have the kids sleeping in a different room to the adults. Next was to the CBR to view the new Pirate rooms and wow they are so cool. I can see that every little boy and lots of little girls would love to stay here.

Here are a few photos, take note of the plank carpet, dividing curtain, the barrels and the etching on the bathroom wall!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/148.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/149.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/151.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/152.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/153.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/150.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/154.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/155.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/3113520986_bf877b2b09.jpg


Back on the bus and next stop was SSR to view the DVC models. First was the BLT, which was stunning, followed by the AKLV. Sorry I didn’t take photos, as I know they can be found easily here on the DIS. If I had to pick I’d definitely go for the BLT, I seem to prefer the modern look rather than the rustic :rotfl:

One photo that was taken in the AKLV shower!!!
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/3113523710_0108693290.jpg


It was now close to lunchtime and we were off to the Contemporary to eat at the Wave. We had our own private room, which was lovely. Kay had us laughing the whole meal but for the life of me I can’t remember about what :lmao:

I had lamb lettuce wraps followed by a cheeseburger. The food was nice but a little spicy for me, hence the burger! We also acted like kids asking for light up Tinkerbells!!! Everyone was stuffed so we skipped dessert and as we had some free time all 16 of us headed to Epcot.

Once we arrived we split up, some went shopping but 12 went to TT. You can see from the photos which were the crazy bunch, guess which group I’m in :rotfl:

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/TT.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/n1491638699_30132173_7328.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/TT1.jpg


Some then headed to ride Soarin but I decided to just do a little shopping and head back to CSR for a nap, that’s if I could sleep this time!!!!!!



Continued here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29216928&postcount=182)

[hlrababy]

Cool update!! OH MY GOSH!! How cool that you got to stay in the Cinderella Suite!!! I am so jealous!!! I can not wait to hear how it was!!!:banana:

[jcc0621]

Jimmy would LOVe the pirate rooms!

You went to EPCOT and rode TT, gee what a surprise:rolleyes1

I assume they gave you park hoppers for your length of stay??? Awesome ::yes::

[ncsjodi]

Ummmmm what are hoosiers? :rotfl2:



Hoosiers are what people from Indiana are called. Haven't you ever seen the movie called "Hoosiers"? It's about a high school basketball team from a really small school winning the state championships over a really large school. It stars Gene Hackman. It's a classic sports movie.

Anyway, it's also the mascot of Indiana University. Ask Doug, I'm sure he knows exactly what I'm talking about. :thumbsup2

[T-i-double-g-err]

Thanks for reading David and I hope your DS gets better!

Thanks Jo! His fever is down, and he was up to arguing with the girls this afternoon over tv remote territoriality. :headache: He's much more lovey-cuddly with them when he's not feeling well. :rotfl:

Great update! Love the pirate room pictures. I'll have to post some of our pirate deck party pictures from the cruise last April.

I'm glad to hear your view on the BLT models. We've seen the 3D models on the web but have not done a walk through. We're pretty close to purchasing. There I said it, and as long as I don't have to see the total cost anywhere I should be fine. :scared:

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

What a shocker, Test Track again! :rotfl:

How nice of Tanya to give her spot in the castle to you. :goodvibes

[Sarilas]

Amazing pics of the new pirate themed rooms! Those will make some kids (and adults!) VERY happy!

[Miz Diz]

Congrats on the Castle stay. Love all the photos. The pirate rooms are so cool. My kids would love that.

[rentayenta]

:cool1: The castle suite!!!!!! :hyper: I can hardly take it!


:thumbsup2 The pirate: rooms look awesome! Josh would get a kick out of it!


What is a BLT other than a delicious non-Kosher sandwich? :confused3

[DisneyJo]

Cool update!! OH MY GOSH!! How cool that you got to stay in the Cinderella Suite!!! I am so jealous!!! I can not wait to hear how it was!!!:banana: It was awesome, I couldn't believe it when Tanya said she didn't want to stay there!

Jimmy would LOVe the pirate rooms!
They really are cool, they are quite a long way from the pool though, oh the new pool is so cool too!

You went to EPCOT and rode TT, gee what a surprise:rolleyes1 I'm so pleased I can keep surprising you :rolleyes1 :rotfl2:

I assume they gave you park hoppers for your length of stay??? Awesome ::yes::::yes::

Hoosiers are what people from Indiana are called. Haven't you ever seen the movie called "Hoosiers"? It's about a high school basketball team from a really small school winning the state championships over a really large school. It stars Gene Hackman. It's a classic sports movie.

Anyway, it's also the mascot of Indiana University. Ask Doug, I'm sure he knows exactly what I'm talking about. :thumbsup2 They did keep going on about some teams or others but I switched off :rotfl2:

Thanks Jo! His fever is down, and he was up to arguing with the girls this afternoon over tv remote territoriality. :headache: He's much more lovey-cuddly with them when he's not feeling well. :rotfl: I'm glad he's getting better!

Great update! Love the pirate room pictures. I'll have to post some of our pirate deck party pictures from the cruise last April. :thumbsup2

I'm glad to hear your view on the BLT models. We've seen the 3D models on the web but have not done a walk through. We're pretty close to purchasing. There I said it, and as long as I don't have to see the total cost anywhere I should be fine. :scared:Fantastic, the rooms really were nice :thumbsup2

What a shocker, Test Track again! :rotfl: I know :rotfl2:

How nice of Tanya to give her spot in the castle to you. :goodvibes It was, she didn't want to stay for a couple of reasons and I'm not sure if it's because I was sat next to her but she also kept saying that I came such a long way for the training that she gave it to me:confused3

Amazing pics of the new pirate themed rooms! Those will make some kids (and adults!) VERY happy! We were all ooohing and ahhhhing as we went round :rotfl2:

Congrats on the Castle stay. Love all the photos. The pirate rooms are so cool. My kids would love that. Mary they really are great, so well themed, I hope they do more hotels with great themes :thumbsup2

[DisneyJo]

:cool1: The castle suite!!!!!! :hyper: I can hardly take it! :rotfl2: And you already knew about it :rotfl2:

:thumbsup2 The pirate: rooms look awesome! Josh would get a kick out of it! Jenny they really are great, not sure if you can fit 5 in but hey leave Michael behind ;) :rotfl2:

What is a BLT other than a delicious non-Kosher sandwich? :confused3Bay Lake Towers, the new DVC being built next to the Contemporary :thumbsup2

[KatGarcia]

Those pirate rooms are really neat!!!! They are in the Martinique section, right?

[HomeschoolMama]

I love the pirate rooms! How fun! :thumbsup2

[Figment's Friend]

i love the barrel as the night table in the pirate rooms! :thumbsup2

you must have been on cloud nine when you heard your name! i'm sure your daughters were very jealous to hear about this!

[Disneyland_Mama]

Loving your updates, Jo! :goodvibes

I'm not a bit jealous. Nope, I'm not. :bitelip: Not one little bit. Ok, I'm SOOOO jealous! :lmao: But oh so happy for you, my friend! :hug:

[askelton]

I'm telling Mitch you get to stay in the castle and he's like, ok. :rolleyes: Awesome! :cool1:

[disneyhockeymad]

wow you actually got to stay in the suite too.... wow!! Those pirate rooms look amazing... it's like the themed rooms in Alton Towers, but on a much bigger (and better) scale!!! (I hope you know what I mean :rotfl:!!)

[jcc0621]

I'm telling Mitch you get to stay in the castle and he's like, ok. :rolleyes:

I got this same reaction from Jim...what is wrong with these men of ours:headache:

[winkers]

How fun getting to tour the different resort rooms!

[PrincessAlways]

Wow...staying in the Castle suite........"sweet"! :rotfl:
Those pirate rooms are really cool! Although the skull on the curtains might be a little frightening first thing in the morning! :lmao:

[LurrrvtheDuck]

OMG JO!!!! What an exciting trip you've been having!!! :cloud9:

The Castle Suite :faint:

I'm with T, not at all jealous :rolleyes1


Can't wait to hear more.

[carrieannie]

That was so sweet of Tanya to pick you to stay in the Castle!! :goodvibes But I`m confused..(whats new,right?) Cathy got to stay, but then couldnt? she couldnt get her flight changed? wasn`t she a "mom" and had to stay for the training anyway? and where did Tanya come in and why would she give up her spot to stay in the castle? :confused: I read all the chapters too...:sad2:

:lmao:

[DisneyJo]

Those pirate rooms are really neat!!!! They are in the Martinique section, right? Kat I think they're in Trinidad South!

I love the pirate rooms! How fun! They really are cool Dawn!

i love the barrel as the night table in the pirate rooms! :thumbsup2 The theming really is great!

you must have been on cloud nine when you heard your name! i'm sure your daughters were very jealous to hear about this! Due to the time difference I didn't get to tell them till 7am EST the next morning!

I'm not a bit jealous. Nope, I'm not. :bitelip: Not one little bit. Ok, I'm SOOOO jealous! :lmao: But oh so happy for you, my friend! :hug: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

I'm telling Mitch you get to stay in the castle and he's like, ok. :rolleyes: Awesome! :cool1: Thanks Angela, well you know who not to take if you get the chance to stay there :rotfl2:

wow you actually got to stay in the suite too.... wow!! Those pirate rooms look amazing... it's like the themed rooms in Alton Towers, but on a much bigger (and better) scale!!! (I hope you know what I mean :rotfl:!!) I do :rotfl2: And thanks!

How fun getting to tour the different resort rooms! It was, especially as I hadn't been to AS or CBR!

Wow...staying in the Castle suite........"sweet"! :rotfl:
Those pirate rooms are really cool! Although the skull on the curtains might be a little frightening first thing in the morning! :lmao: It was pretty amazing and yep that skull is a bit scary :rotfl2:

OMG JO!!!! What an exciting trip you've been having!!! :cloud9:

The Castle Suite :faint:

I'm with T, not at all jealous :rolleyes1


Can't wait to hear more. Thanks Z and I'm so glad you're not jealous :rotfl2:

That was so sweet of Tanya to pick you to stay in the Castle!! :goodvibes But I`m confused..(whats new,right?) Cathy got to stay, but then couldnt? she couldnt get her flight changed? wasn`t she a "mom" and had to stay for the training anyway? and where did Tanya come in and why would she give up her spot to stay in the castle? :confused: I read all the chapters too...:sad2:

:lmao: :rotfl: OK Cathy was already on vacation with her family but when she was selected to be on the panel she cut her trip short to do the training, her family were still at WDW though. When she won the Castle Suite her family (who were due to fly home that morning) tried to change their flights so they could join her but they couldn't. So 5 Moms could then join her, Tanya decided for a couple of medical reasons that she didn't want to stay in the castle so gave her spot to me. Hope that makes sense :rotfl2:

[englishrose47]

Wow Jo you get to stay in the Castle !! The Pirate rooms look so cool Kyle would love it !! Thanks for saying I am your BESTEST!!:goodvibes I feel so special knowing a Disney Mom !! Can't wait for the rest of the TR !!

[Hollywoodhaha]

You got to stay there :worship:

Thanks for the pirate room photos! I plan on booking that for next year :thumbsup2

[julezdisney]

Hi Jo! :wave2: Julia here. Lovin' the report!

But I don't know if I could be on Mom's Panel- might cut into my DIS time! :laughing: :laughing: :laughing:

Great pix! Keep 'em coming! ::yes::

[T-i-double-g-err]

I'm telling Mitch you get to stay in the castle and he's like, ok. :rolleyes: Awesome! :cool1:
I got this same reaction from Jim...what is wrong with these men of ours:headache:
Nothing wrong with y'all! A castle stay would just be totally cool! :yay: You may want to get the DHs checked out...:confused3 Of course, I might be a little biased on the subject. :rolleyes1

[Diamondintheruff]

So amazing about staying in the castle. I'm surprised you didn't blurt that right out at the beginning of the report. I know I would have a hard time keeping that secret to myself.

[DisneyJo]

Wow Jo you get to stay in the Castle !! The Pirate rooms look so cool Kyle would love it !! Thanks for saying I am your BESTEST!!:goodvibes I feel so special knowing a Disney Mom !! Can't wait for the rest of the TR !! Kyle really would love those rooms and Rosie you'll always be my bestest :hug:

You got to stay there :worship:

Thanks for the pirate room photos! I plan on booking that for next year :thumbsup2 Your kids would love the Pirate rooms, they're so cool!

Hi Jo! :wave2: Julia here. Lovin' the report!

But I don't know if I could be on Mom's Panel- might cut into my DIS time! :laughing: :laughing: :laughing:

Great pix! Keep 'em coming! ::yes:: Hi Julia, thanks for reading, I know what you mean about cutting into my DIS time :rotfl2:

Nothing wrong with y'all! A castle stay would just be totally cool! :yay: You may want to get the DHs checked out...:confused3 Of course, I might be a little biased on the subject. :rolleyes1 Biased? You? :rotfl2:

So amazing about staying in the castle. I'm surprised you didn't blurt that right out at the beginning of the report. I know I would have a hard time keeping that secret to myself. Well I did tell some people and plastered my facebook account with photos :rotfl2:



Here are 2 photos another Mom took that I just found!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/3113520986_bf877b2b09.jpg

And in the shower at AKLV :rotfl2:
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/3113523710_0108693290.jpg


Sorry I don't think they'll be an update today as I'm busy this evening!

[jcc0621]

Oh sure, you have a date tonight so we have to suffer:rolleyes1

[DisneyJo]

Oh sure, you have a date tonight so we have to suffer:rolleyes1
Don't let David see you writing that :rotfl2:

[mrsksomeday]

Jo, I am loving the TR!!! Your pictures are fantastic, now you make me want to stay in all those resorts.

OMG I can't believe you got to stay in the Castle, that is fantastic!! I can't wait to read morepopcorn::.

[cmp1111]

But, Jo, you're not doing the TT face the 2nd (or is it 3rd already) time you rode! :rotfl:

Oh, my friend, this is so awesome. I'm so excited for you! :hug:

Did you DRINK the alcohol at the MK? 'Cause if you drank with the Moms and not with us, I might get a little jealous. :lmao:

Doug, you just look happy! But watch out - Jo's DH is a jealous guy... :rolleyes1 :rotfl2:

I can't wait to hear more!

[dismom9761]

Great pics ,Jo!My boys would have loved the pirate room when they were little.:goodvibes The castle suite!!!:cool1: :banana: That is wonderful!:cheer2:

[OhMari]

I'm glad Tanya picked you to go to the Castle suite, but I bet you still didn't get a good nites sleep.

I know you are a POR family and so are we, but we are definately staying at Coronado Springs next time. Those refurbished rooms look as good as a Deluxe.

[englishrose47]

I'moff to bed soon ,or at least I should be as I'm due in to work at 6am !! Sometimes I don't make it !!:rotfl2: I would love to stay in the castle with the Girls and in a Pirate room with Kyle !! I am really glad you got to stay in the Castle as you are the BESTEST!!:hug:

[scrapbookinmickeyfan]

Loving your TR and looking forward to reading the rest.

[DisneyJo]

Jo, I am loving the TR!!! Your pictures are fantastic, now you make me want to stay in all those resorts. Thanks for reading, the new rooms at CSR really are deluxe looking!

OMG I can't believe you got to stay in the Castle, that is fantastic!! I can't wait to read morepopcorn::. I know, how lucky was I?

But, Jo, you're not doing the TT face the 2nd (or is it 3rd already) time you rode! :rotfl: Sorry :rotfl2:

Oh, my friend, this is so awesome. I'm so excited for you! :hug: Thanks :goodvibes

Did you DRINK the alcohol at the MK? 'Cause if you drank with the Moms and not with us, I might get a little jealous. :lmao:
Don't worry I didn't, I think if I had I'd have been curled up in a corner asleep :rotfl2:

Doug, you just look happy! But watch out - Jo's DH is a jealous guy... :rolleyes1 :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Great pics ,Jo!My boys would have loved the pirate room when they were little.:goodvibes The castle suite!!!:cool1: :banana: That is wonderful!:cheer2: Thanks Amy, the pirate rooms really are great and I know the Castle!!!!!

I'm glad Tanya picked you to go to the Castle suite, but I bet you still didn't get a good nites sleep. It was so kind of her and I had no sleep the whole trip :rotfl2:

I know you are a POR family and so are we, but we are definately staying at Coronado Springs next time. Those refurbished rooms look as good as a Deluxe. They really are nice Marisa!

I'moff to bed soon ,or at least I should be as I'm due in to work at 6am !! Sometimes I don't make it !!:rotfl2: I would love to stay in the castle with the Girls and in a Pirate room with Kyle !! I am really glad you got to stay in the Castle as you are the BESTEST!!:hug:Thanks Rosie :hug:

Loving your TR and looking forward to reading the rest. Thanks for reading :goodvibes




I know there are lots of lurkers out there, please post and say Hi :goodvibes

[DisneyJo]

After a half hour lay on the bed I once again gave up on the whole sleep thing and went and got a drink. We had all arranged to meet in Cathy’s room as lots of us had read that the 2008 panel received a basket of goodies at last years training, we thought it would be nice if we made baskets from us all to give to Laura, Leanne and her team. I took Cadburys chocolate and English tea. The amount of stuff we had was phenomenal!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/156.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/158-1.jpg

Tonight’s plans called for us to meet at the bus at 6pm. We then headed for DHS where we arrived just as they turned the Osborne lights on. This was my first viewing of the lights and they were amazing, especially when they danced to the music. We very slowly made our way down the Street, the crowds were huge, as we were meant to be getting a group photo in front of the lights. Due to the huge crowds we didn’t make it in time though so headed straight to TSM. The line was huge but luckily Laura had special FP’s for all of us :)

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/160.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/164.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/165.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/TSM-1.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/168.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/169.jpg



My score is on the right, I so love this ride and I don’t even mind the sore arm it gives you :rotfl:

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/170.jpg

As we missed the earlier photo op we instead had a group photo taken outside the soon to be open American Idol. The poor photographer not only had to have us all looking good but also catch the revolving sign at the correct moment!

This is an unofficial photo, as all my TR photos are!
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/PI.jpg


Continued here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29216931&postcount=183)

[DisneyJo]

We now had about 45 minutes of spare time so a few of us ran to ToT. This was really great, the first time I’d ridden in the dark and so much fun. My lack of sleep was again affecting me and I did think that maybe ToT wasn’t a good choice of ride but I was fine :rotfl:

Once we finished riding we literally had 2 minutes until we had to be at the Hollywood Brown Derby so we speed walked it, arrived all breathless and they were still waiting to be seated :lmao:

We were shown to a huge long table and I sat with some of the 2008 panellists. A little way through our meal our special guest arrived, his name was Gary and he was hilarious, unfortunately he sat at the other end of the table to me so I missed all his jokes, but I could hear the laughs :rotfl:

After quite a long meal we were led back to American Idol but this time we went inside! BTW DHS was now shut and it was so lovely walking round an empty park, I could so get used to that :lmao: No photos were allowed inside AI but I can say, having never watched the show, that it’s amazing, so life like and the opportunities it’s going to give talented singers is amazing!

We crawl back onto the bus and finally get back to CSR about 11.30pm, it’s been a long busy day. As I enter my room I see…………..

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/171.jpg

Then…………
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/172.jpg

Then I see the bed……….
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/173.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/175.jpg

Then the wall……..
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/177.jpg

The bedside cabinet……
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/178.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/179.jpg

The other bed……..
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/176-Copy.jpg

And finally Tinks shadow on the door………
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/174.jpg

This was the label on the box……
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/181.jpg

And inside the box………..
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/180.jpg



You could literally hear scream after scream coming from Casitas 1 :rotfl:

As you probably know next year is the Year of Celebrations and this is one of the packages you can book. It really was fantastic and would be a wonderful surprise for a family. We were the first people to get the Celebration treatment and if you have the money I would highly recommend it, it didn’t do much to help me get to sleep though :rotfl:


Next day here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29238292&postcount=235)

[julezdisney]

OoOOooOooooH! That's amazing! Awesome! ::yes::

[Miz Diz]

So cool to be in DHS while it was closed. When does AI open?

Love the decorations and gifts you got. Wonder how much that costs to book? I would love to do that for the kids on our next trip.

This is really an exciting trip!:thumbsup2

I bet you wanted to call David and the girls every hour to give them updates.

[askelton]

Amazing! :goodvibes

[disneydusted]

Wow!!! DisneyJo, this is absolutely amazing! I have been on other threads where I have read that you made the mom's panel and I finally saw your link and clicked it. It looks like Disney gave you all the royal treatment! This TR is very fun reading!! Congratulations on this super adventure!!! :thumbsup2

[T-i-double-g-err]

That Celebration package looks great! :thumbsup2

I enjoyed the pictures! :) We haven't been since TSM opened, so I'm looking forward to that. DS6 and I are big Buzz fans.

[Lady Lallie]

Ok, you have shamed me out of my lurkdom. :goodvibes

I can't believe that Celebration package! That was a lot of stuff. :woohoo:

[bawsmom]

i've got chills just reading about all of this... i can't imagine what is was like to acutally be there:lovestruc

you are so lucky to have been selected and we are so lucky to have you writing this for us...:goodvibes

thanks again....

[rentayenta]

Amazing!!!!!

[Sarilas]

This is the package I'm dying to order for our trip in January! It's our first trip to Disney World (ever) and I think your pictures just sealed the deal! Amazing!

[CoP Luv]

What a great day! I love the Osbourne Lights. I saw them for the first time last Dec. It was REALLY cold that night so it actually felt like the "fake" snow was real! :rotfl2:

[PrincessV]

We then headed for DHS where we arrived just as they turned the Osborne lights on. This was my first viewing of the lights and they were amazing, especially when they danced to the music.
::yes:: My favorite holiday tradition! :goodvibes

We crawl back onto the bus and finally get back to CSR about 11.30pm
They kept you guys out LATE! I'd never make it on the Mom's Panel - V without sleep ain't pretty. :faint:

And finally Tinks shadow on the door………
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/174.jpg
This is so cool! As is the whole package - that's a lot of stuff!

[mrsksomeday]

It looks like you had a fantastic time. It all sounds so magical. Seeing that celebration package makes me want to do something like that to surprise Bill.

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

How fun! What a nice surprise at the end of the day. :goodvibes

[KatGarcia]

what an amazing thing to come back to the room to!!!! What did you have at Brown Derby?

[DisneyJo]

OoOOooOooooH! That's amazing! Awesome! ::yes:: I know, it was such a surprise to come back too!

So cool to be in DHS while it was closed. When does AI open? I thought it was March but I read in a newsletter that it's valentines day :confused3

Love the decorations and gifts you got. Wonder how much that costs to book? I would love to do that for the kids on our next trip. The package we got was $310 so quite pricey here are all the options Disney Florist (http://www.ftdfloristsonline.com/waltdisneyworldflorist/pages/magicalwelcomes/display)

I bet you wanted to call David and the girls every hour to give them updates. We had arranged that several days he'd call at 7am!

Amazing! :goodvibes I know :goodvibes

Wow!!! DisneyJo, this is absolutely amazing! I have been on other threads where I have read that you made the mom's panel and I finally saw your link and clicked it. It looks like Disney gave you all the royal treatment! This TR is very fun reading!! Congratulations on this super adventure!!! :thumbsup2 Thanks for reading it really was a once in a lifetime trip and I'm glad that I can share it with you all :goodvibes

That Celebration package looks great! :thumbsup2

I enjoyed the pictures! :) We haven't been since TSM opened, so I'm looking forward to that. DS6 and I are big Buzz fans. The package is great and you are all going to love TSM it's so much fun!

Ok, you have shamed me out of my lurkdom. I'm so pleased :goodvibes

I can't believe that Celebration package! That was a lot of stuff. :woohoo: I know, it was a struggle to fit it in the case :rotfl2:

i've got chills just reading about all of this... i can't imagine what is was like to acutally be there:lovestruc

you are so lucky to have been selected and we are so lucky to have you writing this for us...:goodvibes

thanks again.... Thank you so much, I still don't believe I was chosen and I'm so glad that I can write this and share it with you all :goodvibes

Amazing!!!!! I know :rotfl2:

This is the package I'm dying to order for our trip in January! It's our first trip to Disney World (ever) and I think your pictures just sealed the deal! Amazing! It's great, there are several other packages, I'm sure you've seen them but here's the link just incase! (http://www.ftdfloristsonline.com/waltdisneyworldflorist/pages/magicalwelcomes/display)

What a great day! I love the Osbourne Lights. I saw them for the first time last Dec. It was REALLY cold that night so it actually felt like the "fake" snow was real! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: They really are pretty aren't they!

They kept you guys out LATE! I'd never make it on the Mom's Panel - V without sleep ain't pretty. :faint: Add in my jet lag and see how you feel :rotfl2:

This is so cool! As is the whole package - that's a lot of stuff! I know, the girls love the big Mickey as they know I'd never let them buy one that big :rotfl2:

It looks like you had a fantastic time. It all sounds so magical. Seeing that celebration package makes me want to do something like that to surprise Bill. Thanks check out this link (http://www.ftdfloristsonline.com/waltdisneyworldflorist/pages/magicalwelcomes/display) for other options!

How fun! What a nice surprise at the end of the day. :goodvibes It was, thanks Lessa!

what an amazing thing to come back to the room to!!!! What did you have at Brown Derby? Errrrrrrr I had to pull up the menu and I skipped an appetiser (just too much food by that point) I had the steak and then the Creme Brulee and even then I didn't eat it all!

[Disneyland_Mama]

Wow! :cool1:

Yup, that's all I've got. Wow! :lmao:

[DisneyJo]

Wow! :cool1:

Yup, that's all I've got. Wow! :lmao:Have I actually made you lost for words T??? :rotfl2:

[rachel3]

what an incredible trip!!!!

[Nicole786]

Thanks for the pics of the celebration stuff. In May its my parents anniversary and i'd love to do this for them!

[jaycns]

It's official...I found my next 'must do' in room surprise. :thumbsup2 Thanks, Jo! You know my addiction to all things surprising. ;)

What a lovely evening you had. I bet you were so happy when those TSM fast passes came out! ;)

What a cute idea to make thank you baskets for them. How did those go over?

[cmp1111]

Man, look at all that swag! Awesome!

How fun to go into the new AI, too, and ToT in the dark, and...

Heck, it's all FUN!

What's the towel/blanket looking thing?

[The Moonk's Mom]

I just read everything and when I got to the pics of your room I think I screamed! HOW COOL! It really sound like you guys had a GREAT time! How neat! Thanks so much for sharing!

[Lesprivate]

I just found this tr, that is so awesome, I can't wait to hear more.

[jcc0621]

The surprise was awesome. :goodvibes

[HomeschoolMama]

What an amazing package! :eek: I'm going to go look around and see what I can figure out for our trip in April. :thumbsup2

[disneyhockeymad]

wow that goodie bag is amazing, such a suprise. You're so lucky!!!

[dsiind]

I was going to do a thread like this for everyone, but Jo is doing such a great job, there is no reason to repeat. I will add a few points;

1. I wish you could have heard us when we got to our respective rooms. It was complete silence, then you would hear someone pop their heads out of their doors to say "DID YOU SEE YOUR ROOM YET?".
2. I am sure the operator wanted to know why some strange guy wanted to be connected to all these women's rooms at 11:30 at night!
3. They gave us a box to ship it all home in, and I still needed another box on top of that. They were WAY too generous!
4. Let's just say that I have never missed a meal in my life, but by the middle of the trip we were all leaving half-eaten plates at every meal because of how well they were feeding us. I gained 4 1/2 pounds in just 4 days!

Funny thing is, I lived this all, and I am still just chomping at the bit to read her next installment, isn't that odd?

popcorn::

[princessjv]

Jo-

WOW! OMGoodness... WOW! Are you still on cloud 9?


Wow!

[T-i-double-g-err]

Funny thing is, I lived this all, and I am still just chomping at the bit to read her next installment, isn't that odd?

popcorn::

Not odd at all. :goodvibes My wife and I tag wrote a trip report. As I read her parts, I remembered parts more clearly that I had not necessarily emphasized and saw other aspects of the trip in a new light from her perspective. Everyone has a slightly different perspective on the same events.

Disney is about magical moments and memories. pixiedust: They're more full bodied when shared! :thumbsup2

[hlrababy]

Oooooh, wow!!! What an awesome surprise to come back to in the room!!!!

[englishrose47]

JoI was going to ask a Mom's Panel ? about the price of that Surprise package but you are such a good "MOM" you already answered that for me !!
But can you tell me more about AI!!???

[Figment's Friend]

First of all, I love Cadbury chocolates! :lmao: ;)

I was gasping at all the wonderful surprises left in your room! :goodvibes I love that Tink and the big stuffed Mickey and the picture frame....all of it! :rotfl: It looks as though you and the other mom's were having a blast at DHS! We are looking forward to the American Idol attraction, so it's nice to hear you got to see a little of the inside and how nice it is! :thumbsup2

[SkyGirl]

Wow! What a great surprise in your room!! How did the kids react when you brought it all home?? :woohoo:

Reading this is so exciting! I can't wait to hear more!!

[LurrrvtheDuck]

OMG Jo!!! Wow!!! What a wonderful experience!! This was truly a magical trip! :goodvibes

[TyRy]

Jo - what great surprises between the Castle night stay and the gifts left in your room! Although now seeing those has me thinking about saving a bit and getting that next year on our trip.

[winkers]

that is so much fun!!

Do you know how to book the celebration package?

[Diamondintheruff]

Wow is about all I can say.

[DisneyJo]

Any Moms Panellists who are reading my TR don't scroll down!!!!!!








































I had a parcel delivered today from Laura and Leanne the Moms Panel bosses, have a look what I got :)

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/016-1.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/017-1.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/019-1.jpg

And inside was............

Box of Mickey shortbread cookies
Tin of Danish cookies
Box of marzipan fruits
Bar of Ghiradelli Peppermint Bark
Box of special "how will you celebrate" greetings cards
Jar of Mustard
Box of Brie
2 x pecan roll things
Bag of pretzels
Box of cinnamon cookies
2 x pecan nougat
Box of sugar cracknel cookies
Basil & Sweet Pepper crackers
Plush Mickey and Minnie
3 ornaments
And the big sleigh it all came in.

I feel very spoilt and very lucky :goodvibes

[mrsksomeday]

Wow, what a great surprise, you deserve to be spoiled Jo, you are such a wonderful person :hug:.

[DisneyJo]

what an incredible trip!!!! It really was once in a lifetime!!!!

Thanks for the pics of the celebration stuff. In May its my parents anniversary and i'd love to do this for them! They do a lovely anniversary type package here! (http://www.ftdfloristsonline.com/waltdisneyworldflorist/pages/romanticcongratulations/display) I promise I'm not on commision :rotfl2:

It's official...I found my next 'must do' in room surprise. :thumbsup2 Thanks, Jo! You know my addiction to all things surprising. Jay, Disney Florist have got loads of lovely packages you can book, click the link in my previous reply and have a look around!

What a lovely evening you had. I bet you were so happy when those TSM fast passes came out! ::yes:: :rotfl2:

What a cute idea to make thank you baskets for them. How did those go over? It was all a bit of a blur but they did love them :goodvibes

Man, look at all that swag! Awesome!

How fun to go into the new AI, too, and ToT in the dark, and...

Heck, it's all FUN!

What's the towel/blanket looking thing? :rotfl2: Everywhere I looked I saw more stuff!!!! And the yellow thing with my name embroidered on is a soft fleecy blanket/throw, really warm and snuggly, the girls have used it already :rotfl2:

I just read everything and when I got to the pics of your room I think I screamed! HOW COOL! It really sound like you guys had a GREAT time! How neat! Thanks so much for sharing! It really was fantastic, thanks so much for reading :goodvibes

I just found this tr, that is so awesome, I can't wait to hear more. I'm so pleased you're enjoying it, thanks for reading :goodvibes

The surprise was awesome. I know, plus I'm far too tight to ever book it for my family :rotfl2:

What an amazing package! :eek: I'm going to go look around and see what I can figure out for our trip in April.
It is fantastic Dawn, there are tons of different packages and I think they may even adapt stuff to suit your needs :thumbsup2

wow that goodie bag is amazing, such a suprise. You're so lucky!!! I know, the whole trip was like a dream :goodvibes

I was going to do a thread like this for everyone, but Jo is doing such a great job, there is no reason to repeat. I will add a few points;

1. I wish you could have heard us when we got to our respective rooms. It was complete silence, then you would hear someone pop their heads out of their doors to say "DID YOU SEE YOUR ROOM YET?".
2. I am sure the operator wanted to know why some strange guy wanted to be connected to all these women's rooms at 11:30 at night!
3. They gave us a box to ship it all home in, and I still needed another box on top of that. They were WAY too generous!
4. Let's just say that I have never missed a meal in my life, but by the middle of the trip we were all leaving half-eaten plates at every meal because of how well they were feeding us. I gained 4 1/2 pounds in just 4 days!

Funny thing is, I lived this all, and I am still just chomping at the bit to read her next installment, isn't that odd? Doug you really are the sweetest :hug:

1. It was so funny hearing all the screams, I even shouted at Leanne out of my door and she came and had a look!
2. You never phoned me :snooty: :rotfl2:
3. I managed to fit all mine in, my DH said he would have needed several more cases to fit it all in :rotfl2:
4. I so agree it was too much food, but then I always feel like that at WDW!

Jo-

WOW! OMGoodness... WOW! Are you still on cloud 9?


Wow! Yep, Jen it really was fantastic!!!!

Disney is about magical moments and memories. pixiedust: They're more full bodied when shared! Totally agree :goodvibes

Oooooh, wow!!! What an awesome surprise to come back to in the room!!!! I know, it sure woke us up :rotfl2:

JoI was going to ask a Mom's Panel ? about the price of that Surprise package but you are such a good "MOM" you already answered that for me !!
But can you tell me more about AI!!??? Awww thanks Rosie and I'm afraid that I can't say too much about AI other than it really will be fantastic!!!

First of all, I love Cadbury chocolates! You should have said and I'd have brought you some!!!!!

I was gasping at all the wonderful surprises left in your room! I love that Tink and the big stuffed Mickey and the picture frame....all of it! It looks as though you and the other mom's were having a blast at DHS! We are looking forward to the American Idol attraction, so it's nice to hear you got to see a little of the inside and how nice it is! The surprise stuff was fantastic and I think the whole trip we had a blast :rotfl2: AI really will be great!

Wow! What a great surprise in your room!! How did the kids react when you brought it all home?? They loved it all :goodvibes

OMG Jo!!! Wow!!! What a wonderful experience!! This was truly a magical trip! It sure was Z!!!

Jo - what great surprises between the Castle night stay and the gifts left in your room! Although now seeing those has me thinking about saving a bit and getting that next year on our trip. Me too :rotfl2: We spend so much on our WDW trips that I would never normally look at buying extras but it really was a great surprise!

that is so much fun!!

Do you know how to book the celebration package?Of course I do :rotfl2: Cherie, follow this link (http://www.ftdfloristsonline.com/waltdisneyworldflorist/pages/magicalwelcomes/display) and then have a look around, there are lots of various packages!

Wow is about all I can say. :rotfl2:

[DisneyJo]

Wow, what a great surprise, you deserve to be spoiled Jo, you are such a wonderful person :hug:. You're so sweet, thanks :hug:

[jcc0621]

Jo I just checked out the link....some of those prices :faint:

[cmp1111]

Any Moms Panellists who are reading my TR don't scroll down!!!!!!



Holy moley!!!!!!! :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:

[Sarilas]

Oh my gosh, that is a great Christmas treat!

[estherhead]

OK, I just read this whole report. What a great experience to get to see so many corners of WDW resort.

I can't wait for more!

[LurrrvtheDuck]

Jo I just checked out the link....some of those prices :faint:

::yes:: I agree Janet. It's very nice, but the price of that is almost as much as I spend on a Disney trip! :eek: I think I could do that on my own for cheaper. :idea: ;)

[DisneyJo]

Jo I just checked out the link....some of those prices :faint: I know, if you search around though there are some cheaper options, you know me and money and TBH I really am considering something after receiving mine :faint: :rotfl2:

Holy moley!!!!!!! :yay: :yay: :yay: I know CE, I haven't even started yet and I'm being treated so well :goodvibes

Oh my gosh, that is a great Christmas treat! It really is, the chocolate has kind of disappeared already though :rolleyes1 :rotfl2:

OK, I just read this whole report. What a great experience to get to see so many corners of WDW resort.

I can't wait for more! Thank you so much for reading, it really was a special trip :goodvibes

::yes:: I agree Janet. It's very nice, but the price of that is almost as much as I spend on a Disney trip! :eek: I think I could do that on my own for cheaper. :idea: ;) I suppose you're paying for not having to do it :rotfl2:

[troobabiee7]

Hi Jo! I just found your report and had so much fun reading through it. Congratulations on being picked for the Mom Panel! That's such a fun concept. It sounds like your trip was amazing. I thought I knew everything about WDW but I had no idea about those Pirate suites... how cute! I love all the extra goodies you got too. Looking forward to more!

[KatGarcia]

WOW what a truly awesome thing they did for you! It couldn't have happened to a nicer person, Jo!

[boysmom5150]

I am loving this report. EVery installment is better than the next and full of surprises too. GLad you got to see AI and had some special FP's for TSM.
What an amazing surprise it must have been to see your room decked out in all that swag. SAAAAWEEET!!!!YOu deserve it !!!
When will we see your profile and questions on the website?

Love gift you got at home too. who is that from again??Last years panel members??

[DisneyJo]

Hi Jo! I just found your report and had so much fun reading through it. Congratulations on being picked for the Mom Panel! That's such a fun concept. It sounds like your trip was amazing. I thought I knew everything about WDW but I had no idea about those Pirate suites... how cute! I love all the extra goodies you got too. Looking forward to more! Thank you so much for reading and thanks for your kind words. The trip really was amazing, very tiring though and those Pirate rooms really are cool :thumbsup2

WOW what a truly awesome thing they did for you! It couldn't have happened to a nicer person, Jo! Kat you're so sweet :goodvibes

I am loving this report. EVery installment is better than the next and full of surprises too. GLad you got to see AI and had some special FP's for TSM.
What an amazing surprise it must have been to see your room decked out in all that swag. SAAAAWEEET!!!!YOu deserve it !!!
When will we see your profile and questions on the website? Can you see now why I had trouble sleeping? Each day was just more exciting than the last :rotfl2: The 2009 Panel go live on the website on 5th January, you'll then be able to view my profile video :eek:

Love gift you got at home too. who is that from again??Last years panel members?? It was from Laura and Leanne who are our bosses and in charge of the MP :goodvibes

[DisneyJo]

I woke up feeling as though I’d finally gotten a good nights sleep, I switched on the light to check the time and it was 2.30 am :faint: So much for a long sleep :rotfl:

Todays plan was for us to meet in the conference room at 8 am for breakfast. We were joined by some people from different Disney websites. Whilst we ate I was interviewed by Deb from allears, someone from Mickey News and errrr someone else :lmao: (I'd given up taking notes at this point, there just wasn't time!!!)

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/182.jpg

Today we were going to learn how to use the website, before we started though we gave our goodie bags to Laura, Leanne and the team. I think they were very surprised especially as they were so large :rotfl2: We all had our own desk with a computer on and also on the desk was a lovely embroidered messenger bag, 2 Moms panel pens and a Moms Panel mouse mat. Also Joanne from Canada had left us each a Canadian flag and pin, which was very sweet of her. I found a seat but once our speaker started talking I realised that I am going deaf, I’ve been disputing the fact with DH for a while, and moved to the front where I could hear!

After about 2 hours a strange man came into our room, he started asking us if we were the Campbell family (or similar) over and over again. When we said we weren’t he wondered whether we wanted to listen to the song he’d written anyway. Well OMG he was fantastic, so funny, the song was all about the Moms Panel and us. We were in stitches and gave him a standing ovation. It turns out he was the famous Guitar Dan and the interesting facts about ourselves that Laura had asked for before our trip were used in his lyrics. Bri from the 2008 panel videoed it and it is under videos on my FB page but I can’t work out how to make it public, sorry!

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb54/disneyjo73/WDW%20%20Moms%20Panel/184.jpg

Well after all the fun we had a small break before lunch, during lunch we had a couple of guest speakers from transport. After another delicious meal we had a presentation from the people in charge of next years “What will you Celebrate”. They showed us lots of the special things planned and the new merchandise. Also some very yummy looking cakes, which we were allowed to sample :)

At 3.45pm we boarded the bus to Epcot where we were shooting a small video outside of the Seas. As far as I know it will be going on the website once we go live. It took quite a while to shoot as planes kept flying over, monorails went past and people kept being noisy :rotfl: It took me several takes to get my lines right, we had cue cards and although I’d memorised what I had to say I kept looking at the cards and they put me off, I’m so not cut out to be an actress :lmao:

We had a little bit of free time again so we headed to Soarin but couldn’t get on so I think we rode TT, I was so upset at having to ride again ;) :rotfl: A few of us got the bus back to CSR and had to wait about 20 minutes, where was our private bus when we needed it :rotfl2:

There was time for a quick freshen up before boarding the bus again at 7.30pm for dinner!



Continued here! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29248362&postcount=268)

[jaycns]

Great update. I cannot wait to see the video when it comes online. I bet you did far better then you are giving yourself credit for. :thumbsup2

Thank you again for sharing this with all of us!:goodvibes

[PrincessAlways]

Wow, wow & wow!!! It must have been an absolutely wonderful experience!! Plus the special delivery at home! Disney certainly knows how to make you feel special!! :goodvibes Can't wait to see the Moms' Panel video!

[KatGarcia]

Our famous Jo...can't wait to see the video!

[rentayenta]

Wowzers! :woohoo: That basket is terrific. I have to be honest though, the prices are outrageous. I would have a very hard time trying to talk someone into those. :blush: It's my frugal side I suppose. ;)

[T-i-double-g-err]

Great update! :thumbsup2 Can't wait for the video. popcorn::

[boysmom5150]

Great update.
More swag for you YAY!! It seems like they pulled out all the stops for you, they even wrote songs about it.
No private bus back, poor JO:rotfl2: :rotfl2:

[cmp1111]

although I’d memorised what I had to say I kept looking at the cards and they put me off, I’m so not cut out to be an actress :lmao:

Oh, no! :rotfl: Can't wait to see it.

We had a little bit of free time again so we headed to Soarin but couldn’t get on so I think we rode TT, I was so upset at having to ride again ;) :rotfl:

Poor baby... :rotfl2:

[englishrose47]

Hi Jo! Lovely surprise Sleigh!! :thumbsup2 I am curious about AI as the girls and Judy are huge fans and watch all the time !:yay: DHS is alreadyntheir fav. park with RnR ToTand all the movie stuff now if AI is added I may never get to Epcot !!:rotfl2:

[dismom9761]

Jo,just caught up and WOW! :cloud9: Thats all I can think of to say...loved the way the room looked when you got back and your Christmas package looks great.:thumbsup2 I had not heard of AI.:confused3 We will be there the week of Valentines Day.That would be neat to check out.:goodvibes

[Lady Lallie]

What a wonderful Christmas treat!!

Anytime you get to sample yummy cakes is a good time! :lmao:

[disneydusted]

Absolutely amazing! I am just blown away at the gifts you are being given! :woohoo: I'll bet you were so excited to be getting a box at home from Disney! Looking forward to seeing you on the Mom's panel.

[jns]

Just catching up
Broadband has been playing up on me

have you started working as a Disney Mom yet

[disneyhockeymad]

wow that parcel was amazing, bet the postie struggled to bring that up to your door hahaha. The presents were fantastic, you're very very lucky!! :thumbsup2
Love the fact that guitarist put your interesting facts into your song, must have been fantastic!! Makes me even more jealous!!! :rotfl:

[dundeehunter]

What a way to enjoy WDW...so magical and probably the trip of a lifetime! Congrats and again. I love reading your trip report. It makes me more excited since I'm going to WDW in 1 month!:love:

[Figment's Friend]

I'm sure you did great on the final video! I can't wait to see it! :goodvibes What a riot about the song written for all of you, how clever!