~A XMAS STORY~decorations, crowds, pixies..AND A BLOODY NOSE~ACTUAL UPDATE 11/9 p190

[punkin413]

Beautiful pics! I was in total awww of how nice they are. :thumbsup2

Dole whip float....pure pineapple perfection!!! Yummo! :dance3:

I bought a pineapple for Easter breakfast, I'm craving it now...thanks :laughing:


The crowds were heavy, I don't blame you for not waiting in that line. :eek:

Last trip Aaron and I got in line for Peter Pan and it said 20 mins wait. We got in line only to wait about 45 mins....not happy but what can you do. :headache:

Very cute tree ornaments, I can't wait to see what else you got. 50% off, I would have gone crazy too! ;)

thanks! yeah, the crowds were pretty bad that day, at least by our standards. when i heard 50% off i almost got out of line to go get more but then i thought i'd just wait and take my time to look around later.

I've never had a Dole Whip! I always hear how good they are so I definitely have to try one this summer. Your pics came out great, as usual :thumbsup2

Those crowds are CRAZY! I've never seen more than a 10-minute wait for the Haunted Mansion!

they are so good! you should definitely try one. i knew that line was bad for HM - and you go in the summer so you should know!

MMmmmm, Anna's ice cream looks delicious -- all that hot fudge sauce -- yummy, yummy, yummy!

Ray's Dole Whip float looks great, too!

I need to go make lunch now. :lmao:

Love the Tink ornament! What a deal with 50% off! Looking forward to seeing the other ornaments you bought!

hopefully had a good lunch after drooling over all that ice cream! :laughing: i will for sure post pics of the other ornaments i got. i made a point to take pictures of them when i got home.

Thanks for sharing all your memories, I cannot wait to take my girls at Christmas!

you're welcome! i'm sure you guys will have a blast.

I agree Anna's ice cream looks really good. Ray's Dole whip looks even better. I have never had one but it's on my list of to eat. I love the two ornaments you got but can't wait to see which other ones you got too.

enjoy your dole whip float when you go! they really are so yummy.

hi dawn

:wave2:

Great pics Dawn! My mouth is watering looking at that Dole Whip float and reading your description! I didn't get one this trip-just wasn't in the mood for anything sweet when we were over in adventureland. You had such a pretty day!

thanks! it was beautiful that day. the morning/evening were chilly but the rest of the day was really nice.

Oh geeze, both the ice cream and the Dole Whip float look good! :thumbsup2

I've never done Storytime with Belle, but it looks adorable. Maybe we'll have to do this one next year with the little guy. Or is it more of a girls thing?

Ooooh, those ornaments are cute! That little shop is so cute. We never really noticed it and decided to walk around in it one time. We usually save our ornament shopping for the Christmas store at DTD.

you guys should do story time with belle! he would love it. they pick two boys to be belle's father and gaston. and then they usually pick little girls to play ms. potts, etc. then a reluctant dad to be the beast. it's a cute show that all kids would love, i think!

we didn't get to DTD this trip so we had to get our stuff at the store at MK. but that was fine because we just sent our stuff up to the front to be picked up later.

I cannot wait to have my dole whip in two months! Great day..... it is fun to just take it all in at WDW. I love the Castle ornament. I might have to get that!

i will be so envious of your dole whip in two months!!!!

It does look like such a beautiful day! It sounds so nice to just walk around leisurely and take it all in.

it was really nice. that's something that i tend to forget to do sometimes at disney.


That is an AWESOME PICTURE!!!!!!! :thumbsup2

i thought so, too.

And let's keep our fingers http://bestsmileys.com/fingers/1.gif crossed...that it happens!!! Haven't really told anyone......sssshhhhhhhh http://bestsmileys.com/foot_in_mouth/1.gif

my lips are sealed but i have to do this for you right now....:dance3:

We were supposed to get one of these in Sept so I could try!!! :rolleyes:

i think the heat fried my brain and i forgot.

http://bestsmileys.com/sad/8.gif I would have been SO sad!!!

i do believe i texted you this and told you about the wait. i was crazy!

A DOLE whip is definately on my list of things to try next visit, and Story Time with Belle. Can't believe I haven't seen that show yet. Your ornaments are great!

both are such good things!!!! the dole whip is so yummy and that show is really cute.

[punkin413]

melissa - i haven't responded to you yet because i want to take my time to do so. ray and i have to run some errands but i will be back later to respond!

NY Bagels and Pizza a must! It sounds like you have your days packed..its so funny for me reading a touring plan of where Im from lol but you have a great one.There are soooo many places I could tell u to eat and all top notch depending on your taste.Brooke is in CT so it seems she knows her stuff about NYC.You will have a blast and I can tell u the locals have a tendency to walk really fast and drivers do not stop often for pedestrians around here lol Shopping is awesome in the village and if you go to Macys on 34th they actually have half numbered floors..my dd thinks its soo cool :rotfl:

thanks so much for the tips, especially about the drivers not stopping. :laughing: i'm sure that one will come in handy. we are gonna try to go to macy's if we have time. it's one of those things that's a "hopefully" on or list.

Sounds like a great plan.

My 2 cents: Make sure when you go to the Met you don't pay full price. It is a SUGGESTED DONATION so you can pay 2 bucks if you feel like it.

There's a place called Blockhead's that has outdoor seating and cheap drinks that are really good! It's on 50th between 8th and 9th. They are open late too.

Also there is the ferris wheel inside toys-r-us, thats fun.

In China town there's an awesome place for rice pudding - http://www.ricetoriches.com/(37 Spring Street between Mott and Mulberry St), if you like rice pudding that is.

Thats all I can think of! Just have a great time wandering and relaxing and seeing the city!

my sister mentioned that about the MET. i marked down blockhead's on my map! we are definitely going to go by toys r us. i want to see that ferris wheel! we will probably go by there our first afternoon/night. thanks for the tips!

OMG it looks so crowded! :scared1: Thank God they all left before we got there! I LOVE the pic of the castle...you're so right. It looks like a real castle out in the woods! How sweet would it be to live in a castle!? :hug:

Ya know I've never tried the Dole Whip. I have to in Aug. I love the cappucino float and it looks similar to that only with pineapple juice right? I like pineapple so I'll probably like the dole whip too.

We need to do the Belle thing again. We haven't done that since '06. The kids really enjoyed it. They were both called up to play a part.

You got some great shots of the fountain and wishing well! :thumbsup2 Great update!!!

it was a saturday so i'm sure it was part of the local crowd too. i knew going into it it would be crowded but it's still shocking to see if you're not used to it. if you like pineapple you'd love a dole whip float. it's just pineapple soft serve in pineapple juice. but like i said, it's better all mixed together and slushy! thanks for your compliments!!!

So jealous, you are eating in places I have wanted to try. :rotfl2:

The plans look great. For a bagel see if someone has a H&H Bagel sign in there window. Some of the best in the city.

I would do the MET first and then explore the park and work your way down south then you will be closer to Ellen's.

And don;t get in a van for a fake Louis in Chinatown. :lmao:

you sound like me. there are so many places in atlanta i want to try and i haven't because i'm just a slacker! :laughing: people always ask me about the aquarium here and i haven't even been there yet! i will definitely keep H&H bagels in mind. thanks for the tips, especially about the vans in chinatown!!!

Great update and pics.

I love those floats.

That castle ornament is awesome, wish I saw one.

It did look like a nice day (except for the crowds).

thanks! you know, i bet they will have those castle ornaments when you go back at the christmas store in either DTD or MK!

Awww! A baby! :cool1:
But assuming y'all still go (hopefully with a baby in tow), then I'd love to do a photopass share! I'll make a note of it in my Disney folder! ha!

Great new update! Can you believe in all my WDW trips, I've NEVER had the Dole Whip! I'm not a big pineapple fan, but it DOES look tasty! might just have to give it a try next time!

i have made a note to send you a PM when we start planning our trip!

the dole whip floats are so yummy!!!!! they're nice to share because they are pretty big. so you and your hubby should get one next trip.

[troobabiee7]

melissa - i haven't responded to you yet because i want to take my time to do so. ray and i have to run some errands but i will be back later to respond!

Hey! Don't worry, take your time. I was all excited last night about you guys planning a trip here that I decided to write you an entire travel guide :laughing:

[MeMom]

Just checking in to see if we're having an Easter baby over here, but I guess not yet.

I'll be back! :)

[rentayenta]

I love your NYC plans. Make time to grab that pizza and eat the local (read cheap vendor) foods; bagels, dirty water dogs, roasted nuts, etc.............And I can't wait to hear about Wicked!!! :cool1:

[CanadianWDWfan]

I was checking to see if I missed a baby update....no news yet. :goodvibes

Have a great evening!

Glad to hear you are safe from the storms. ;)

[punkin413]

just chatted with jordan on facebook. she says her contractions are getting stronger and lasting longer. she hasn't called the hospital yet because they told her to call when she'd had 6 in one hour and her water had broken, which hasn't happened yet. i asked her if she thought i should leave to head up there and she said she would hate for it to be a false alarm. so i'm still here. she was on her way to go soak in a hot bath. maybe we will have an easter baby!!!! erica is gonna keep you guys updated if she can when i leave.

Just checking in to see if we're having an Easter baby over here, but I guess not yet.

I'll be back! :)

see above!

I love your NYC plans. Make time to grab that pizza and eat the local (read cheap vendor) foods; bagels, dirty water dogs, roasted nuts, etc.............And I can't wait to hear about Wicked!!! :cool1:

definitely! i'm so excited about wicked. i have the soundtrack and sent it to brooke and she told me not to be surprised if she breaks out into song during "defying gravity." :lmao:

I was checking to see if I missed a baby update....no news yet. :goodvibes

Have a great evening!

Glad to hear you are safe from the storms. ;)

see above for baby update. nothing yet.

[MRNsMommy]

Woohoo! Keeping my fingers crossed for an Easter baby!:goodvibes

[punkin413]

Your plans look good, but I'd honestly switch your days around. How set are you on visiting MOMA? It's one of the only museums in the city with an actual admission fee and it's not worth the money. We went for the first time this past summer and were just glad we got in for free (NBC used to sponsor the place so my parents and aunt got in, and I used my school ID). I'm usually a big fan of anything off-beat and different (Rocky Horror's one of my favorite movies and I love all the small and usually over-the-top experimental shows in the village), but this was just too much. I would have been pissed if I paid $20 to see an entire room full of blank white canvases. There was also a video of a naked woman hula-hooping with barbed wire and it was beyond disturbing. I'm all for the freedom of artistic expression but I mean, come on! Plus the museums really small and a rip off, to be honest. Definitely go if your heart's absolutely set on it, but I wouldn't even waste your time. It's always packed, and is so small that you really feel the crowds. It's a tourist trap!

okay....after reading this i'm thinking we might not go. i called anna and told her what you said and she was like.......ewwwwww. i can definitely appreciate art but i don't find the artistic intergrity in naked barbed wire hula hooping! and anna likes to live in this little happy bubble where those kind of things don't exist so i know she wouldn't want to see that. so i think it's nixed from our list.

I love the idea of spending your first night in Times Square. Nothing else is as quintessentially New York! Unless you're doing all the touristy stuff in the area (Madame Tussauds, Ripley's, etc) a night is the perfect amount of time to stroll around and take in all the sights and lights.

the only thing i want to do that night for sure is see the toys r us on times square. other than that we're just gonna take it all in. oh, and we've decided to switch our dinners around. we will be having dinner at mesa grill this night and at blue fin on sunday night because blue fin is closer to rockefeller center and we can take more time there.

On your first full day, I'd spend the day checking out midtown. I'd actually start at the Top of the Rock. It's nowhere near as crowded as the Empire State Building, but it's slowly getting there. The view from the building is indescribable. I went with my ex and one of my best friends back in 2007 and after 22 years in the city, I'd still seen nothing like it. The view out over Central Park and the rest of the city is gorgeous! What made it really special, though, was how empty it was. Going early will give you the most peaceful view out over New York you'll ever see... looking down over the loud hustle and bustle of the city in the still and quiet of being so high up is magical. Go early to avoid the crowds, you won't regret it!

i understand what you're saying. but my sister REALLY wants to see it both during the day and at night. so we are going to pre-purchase our tickets and make our reservation for 7:00. she said you usually have to wait a few minutes after your time to go up. so we figure if we get up there by 7:30 we'll have plenty of time to look at it in the daylight. sunset is supposed to be at 8:14 that night so we can see it at night too. that's why we are going to dusk. and sunday is the ONLY day this will work. i don't want to do it friday just in case we have a late flight because i don't want to take the chance of missing it. saturday is wicked so that won't work. and monday is a holiday and i don't feel particularly safe being on top of a tall building on a holiday. paranoid, i know.


Rockefeller Center is one of my absolute favorite parts of the city, it's gorgeous! After the Top of the Rock you could walk around for a while and see the plaza, and probably even the taping of the Today Show.

it's funny - none of us are much of what i'd call TV people so we really don't have any interest in seeing any shows. i know that's awful! the one i'd be interested in would be SNL and i didn't even think twice about that because that's the night we're seeing wicked.

Then you can walk the two blocks over to 7th Ave and go back down 7th Ave to Ellen's Stardust Diner for a late lunch, which you're gonna love! The food isn't anything authentic but the place is so much FUN! It's regular diner food but we've loved it every time we've gone, and you can't beat the entertainment. They all have great voices and it's like stepping right into Grease! :laughing:

this sounds so fun. i can't wait!

The reason why I say to switch the days is since you have a deadline with going to see Wicked. Besides Top of the Rock, all the stuff you do today will involve just walking around, shopping and taking in the sites, which you can do at your own pace without feeling like you're missing anything. You'll have plenty of time to do it all, and still have time to head back to the hotel to freshen up for the show.

Then the next day I'd get up early and head over to the upper east side (do you watch Gossip Girl?!! :lovestruc) Both the Met and Central Park are huge and gorgeous and you'll definitely want time to explore them without being rushed. I'd head over to the Met first.

i am switching our daytime stuff because i decided you were right. i definitely don't want to be rushed at the MET and central park. so instead on saturday we are gonna do the disney store, st. patrick's cathedral, FAO schwartz and whatever else in that area, have a late lunch at ellen's and then have plenty of time to go back and freshen up for wicked. then sunday we will get up, go to the MET, stay in central park most of the day, then head back to the hotel around 4:00 or so to freshen up. then we will have to be at rockefeller center by 7:00, but i'd want to get there early to see the plaza. then after that a late dinner (around 9:30) at blue fin.

Like Kat said, it's a suggested donation. They want you to pay $20, but only the tourists who don't know about the suggested donation policy actually do. I have friends and professors who pay a dollar! My friend Mike and I are going this Thursday and that's what I plan on paying :laughing: I know it sounds cheap, but I'm a poor college student! :lmao: Seriously, they're used to being given all sorts of crazy amounts and no one bats an eye. Pay whatever you feel comfortable paying.

thanks for telling me this! surprisingly my sister knew this but when you go to their website they say that admission is $20. it's very misleading! good to know it's a suggested donation.

I'm absolutely in love with the Met :lovestruc It's BEAUTIFUL and the art in there is truly awe-inspiring. Be sure to check out the exhibit on Arms and Armour. It's one of the more unusual and fascinating parts of the museum! You can spend a good two or three hours in there, easily.

Central Park is another one of my absolute favorite parts of the city. People who haven't been there before don't know what to expect. Seeing how crammed and hectic New York is, they usually expect a giant lawn ;) It's really an incredible place full of gardens, meadows, waterfalls, lakes and more famous landmarks and statues than you can imagine. Be sure to find the Alice in Wonderland statue, it's really cute! Again, you can easily spend hours strolling through the park and finding all the gorgeous nooks and crannies. After a while the sound of the traffic disappears and you almost forget you're in the middle of New York. The place is pure magic - some of my favorite memories are from the park! It's on the other side of the park and is a trek, but if you're feeling ambitious you could even walk across the park to the Imagine Memorial right by the Dakota - must-see's for any Beatles fan.

these two things are very exciting to me. :goodvibes i already have it marked down about the alice statue. and OF COURSE we're gonna see strawberry fields and the imagine memorial. that's a must! i also have to run around the park singing, "how does she know?" from enchanted. :rotfl2:

Have you made reservations at the Mesa Grill yet? Try to make later ones (for around 7:00) so you'll still have plenty of time to head back to the hotel to change and relax before heading out for dinner and drinks :thumbsup2 The Mesa Grill's really, really good!

no. i called yesterday but she said they don't take them until 30 days out and it's not that close yet. i marked it on my calendar when to call back. my sister actually suggested this place and when i looked at the menu i was like YES, PLEASE!!!! i'm a huge food network fan so i love bobby flay. like i said above, we're switching this and blue fin around so this will actually be on friday night. i'm thinking around 8:00.

Your Monday sounds great! The WTC is a must-see for a lot of people, but there's so much construction going on now that there's not much to see. It's definitely a good place to pay your respects and stop to reflect, but the entire area is just really sad.

i debated on this because i hear there's not much to see any more. but i kept coming back to the fact that 9/11 was such a HUGE event in my life and i can't see myself going to NYC and not seeing where that happened. so we're gonna go.

The Statue of Liberty is downtown too, so you'll have a great view out over the Harbor. Make sure to check out the village! They have the cutest little offbeat stores and cafes. I love it down there! Chinatown and Little Italy are fun too. I'd get pizza on this day! There's nothing like NY pizza, especially in Little Italy!

my sister said the exact same thing about the pizza in little italy! :laughing:

And wave to me as you pass into Brooklyn! :laughing: Do you know what part of BK your sisters friends are in? There are so many great parts of Brooklyn people never get to see when they don't cross the bridge. Like they said on the promos for the Real World Brooklyn, "The Real New York Is Just Across the Bridge." :lmao::lmao:

i will!!!!! i'm not sure but i will let you know. do you know of any good karaoke bars there? that's what she wants to do on that night. or maybe a comedy club?

OK, that's it! I can't believe I just retyped all that :lmao::lmao: Really, switch the days! There's no way you can do the Met and Central Park in half a day, and then make your way completely across the entire park to Ellen's, while trying to get back to the hotel in time to change and get ready for Wicked. I know you said you didn't mind, but the Met and Central Park (and even Ellen's!) are a BILLION times better than MOMA. This way everything you want to do (and eat) is in the same area on both days, and you can do and see it all without having to rush. You'll love it, I'm telling you! I just wrote you an entire book so I'm gonna stop here... I should be a travel agent! :lmao: Keep us updated on your plans :goodvibes

Oh, and don't forget to get bagels. Seriously, there's nothing like NY bagels... they're almost better than the pizza.

thanks so much for all your advice!!!!! i am definitely taking most of it into account. i think the only thing we're not changing is when we go to top of the rock, but that's just because we're set on seeing it at sunset. thanks again!!!! :goodvibes

[VandyFan10]

maybe we will have an easter baby!!!! erica is gonna keep you guys updated if she can when i leave.

YOUR LOVE!!!....oh wait we aren't chatting any more

Come on BABY!!!!! Easter Bunny will you please bring that baby!!??!!??

I WANT TO GO TO NYC!!!!!!!!!!!



OH!!! And for everyone there is an UPDATE on the Vandy Girls thread....go check it out...Dawn has got some GREAT video there :3dglasses

[troobabiee7]

thanks so much for all your advice!!!!! i am definitely taking most of it into account. i think the only thing we're not changing is when we go to top of the rock, but that's just because we're set on seeing it at sunset. thanks again!!!! :goodvibes

Glad I could help! That actually makes a lot of sense with the Top of the Rock, since you'll get to see the day, sunset and night view. It's gonna be gorgeous :goodvibes Another main reason why I said to switch it was because it would be really hectic to fit everything in, but it works out perfectly with switching your dinners. Just buy your tickets early! When you're in the area that morning to see St. Patrick's Cathedral and start your walk down 5th Ave, buy your tickets then. It's a timed entry so you can pick whatever time you want and you know you're guaranteed to get in since it could get crowded on a holiday weekend. And even if you're not into catching a glimpse of the Today Show, definitely take some time walking around Rockefeller Center. There are cute stores ad cafes in the basement, and the entire area's really pretty. You have to see the Atlas statue! It's pretty small too, so you can see it all easily in like a half hour. You girls are gonna have the best time! Be sure to take a ton of pics because you know we're gonna want a TR! :laughing:

Best of luck to Jordan! Hopefully Margot's here soon :goodvibes Happy Easter!

[rentayenta]

Easter baby? popcorn::

[IcePrincess467]

Dawn-

Great updates as usual! I am wondering if this baby will be an Easter baby or not?? umm..:cool1: So when are you and Ray going to have some little ones to bring on your disney adventures? Matt and I found out we are expecting a little one in September :dance3: We are thrilled! I am already planning our first WDW trip with him or her!! haha :wizard:

[daisy_77]

Dawn, I am late to this TR, but I have spent quite some time the past few days reading and I LOVE it!

Thanks for sharing.:goodvibes

[englishrose47]

Happy Easter to everyone:goodvibes
Dan I'm hoping for an Easter BunnyBaby!!!!;)
Your NYC plans sound great !! I know nothing about the City!!:confused3however if anyone is comingto the NY side of Niagara Falls I can help a bit !!:rotfl2:
I have only34 days toDisney and 35 to the HUGE Meet at Epcot !!!!!

[punkin413]

well, i'm hitting the road! i hope this is it. jordan says her contractionss are 6-7 minutes apart and she is going to go up to the hospital as soon as her mom gets home from christmas lunch. today's her due date so she's hoping they will keep her. i will update you guys when i can and i will keep erica updated so she can pass along the messages!!!!

[2xcited2sleep]

Good luck!! I hope this is it too! Thinking good baby thoughts!!! :goodvibes:goodvibes:goodvibes

[troobabiee7]

Good luck to everyone!

[DisneyJo]

That show looks hilarious, we'll definitely have to see that in December :rotfl:

I'm so pleased Ray got his Dole Whip, he did look as though he was on a mission :rotfl2:

Good luck with the baby, hope she arrives soon!!!

[MeMom]

well, i'm hitting the road! i hope this is it. jordan says her contractionss are 6-7 minutes apart and she is going to go up to the hospital as soon as her mom gets home from christmas lunch. today's her due date so she's hoping they will keep her. i will update you guys when i can and i will keep erica updated so she can pass along the messages!!!!

Whoa....either this is going to be one really long labor or Auntie Dawn has already gotten her baby brain going! :rotfl:

Prayers for safe travel. Don't run the stop signs and red lights. We look forward to hearing wonderful baby news either later tonight or tomorrow. Can't wait to see pictures of another beautiful little baby among our group!

Erica, you're on baby watch for the second time in two weeks! :)
Hope to hear good news from you throughout the evening.

[aldisneygrl]

Good luck!!!! Hope the baby arrives healthy!

I think you must have been in a hurry Dawn, 'cause I think you meant Easter lunch not Christmas lunch! :rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

or maybe she's just been eating for four months? :rolleyes:

Safe travels!!

[Happy Elf]

Be safe in your travels! Hoping for a safe and healthy baby girl!

On a side note, I just finished reading all 4 books in the Twilight saga and I LOVED them! I tend to agree with you about the movie. I spent the whole movie telling DH about ways they should have done it to make it better!

[joy13]

I went to NYC last August - it was soooooooo fun! We saw Mama Mia - but I just saw Wicked in February - the traveling production. It is soooooooooooo good! I think we ate at the Blue Fin - is it a tai restaurant? Here is a picture of the interior:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v226/maddiesworld/croppedrestaurant.jpg

And I hope the baby is coming! ELV's to her!

[VandyFan10]

christmas lunch.

:lmao::rotfl::lmao:

That's just too funny.....when we were leaving Matt's mom's he said Happy Thanksgiving...he was joking...but I had said Merry Christmas, Happy New Year.....to be easter it just seems odd

Whoa....either this is going to be one really long labor or Auntie Dawn has already gotten her baby brain going! :rotfl:

:rotfl2::rotfl::lmao::rotfl2:

Erica, you're on baby watch for the second time in two weeks! :)
Hope to hear good news from you throughout the evening.

Woooooo Hooooooooo :goodvibes

I just talked to Dawn a few mins ago....she is right through Chattanooga headed towards Nashville :yay:

She had talked to Jordan and she's not at the Hospital yet but her contractions were about 5 mins apart. And I think she is starting to be in quite a bit of pain

I'll keep you guys updated as I hear things :wizard:

[k_reile]

hope margot has an easy and safe arrival!

[CanadianWDWfan]

I'm so excitted to hear you are going to be there for baby's arrival!

I hope everything goes well and she has an easy delivery.

I will say a prayer for all of you. ;)

Can't wait to get an update. :hug:

[Charleston Princess]

Yeay, another baby!!!

Thanks for keeping us updated, Erica!

[rentayenta]

:goodvibes

[VandyFan10]

Baby Update:

I talked to Dawn about 10:30 and they had just gotten to the hospital. I would assume that Jordan had been there for about 1hr. She had said they had her up walking to try and dialate more.

Dawn got to Nashville prob around 7ish and went to hang out with her Brother. She said he was a nervous wreck, so I'm glad she could have some time with him. And I'm sure it helped him to have his Big Sis there too :goodvibes

I am off to bed, but I would assume by the morning time we will have little Margot here :yay:

Dawn or I will post the details when we get them!!

Thanks for all the well wishes...I know she will appreciate!!

[addictedtothemouse]

Happy Anniversary Dawn!:love::love::love:

Yay for baby news.:cloud9:

[AussieAngel]

Ooooh wow, it's all happening - we hope!!! :yay: :yay: :yay:

Can't wait to hear all about Baby Margot! Awwww!

Thanks for keeping us updated, Erica! :cheer2:

[k_reile]

how cool that the baby will probably be born on your anniversary!

[MagicShell]

I hope things are going well with the baby.

[VandyFan10]

Hey guys...quick update

I recieved a text from Dawn at about 12:30 last night saying Jordan was going to go back home and soak in the bath. So I guess little Margot didn't want the Easter bunny to bring her in to the world after all:laughing:

As of now 10:15am I have not heard from Dawn. I don't want to call or text for fear that she might actually be sleeping.

I am working today so if she sends me reports I will try to get on here as quickly as I can :goodvibes

Thanks guys!

[k_reile]

oh poor Jordan! How frustrating. I am sure she wants that baby out so she can hold her!

[MRNsMommy]

Awww, bummer! Maybe today! Fingers crossed!:cutie:

[MaceysMom]

Happy Anniversary Dawn!

This is one stubborn little baby! It will all be worth it when she finally comes though!:lovestruc

[MA pigletfan]

happy anniversary ray and dawn :)

[VandyFan10]

Talked to Dawn at lunch....still no baby! :rolleyes1

She is waiting to hear from Jordan when she heads back to the hospital....IF it happens today :confused3

[aldisneygrl]

Oh Shoot!!! I saw that you (Erica) had posted, and I was hoping that it was baby news. :sad2: I know we are anxious with the waiting, I can only imagine what Dawn, her brother and Jordan are going through. :hourglass This is one well anticipated baby! ::yes::

[punkin413]

we are still with no baby!!!!!!!

as erica said (thanks for the updates, erica), we were at the hospital last night and they had her up and walking around, trying to get things moving. around 1:30 a.m. she walks into the waiting room in regular clothes. we were like.....huh???? she said she decided to go home because she wanted to soak in her bath and eat and they wouldn't let her do those things at the hospital. they agreed she could go home (they live very close to the hospital) and so she left. i didn't get to bed until around 2:30 so i slept in. she called me around lunchtime today and said that the contractions had not speeded up but that she had had a very nice sleep so she was thinking that's what slowed them down. but on the plus side she's having some signs that her water is breaking so that's a good thing.

i can't imagine she'd have her regularly. jordan is such a tiny girl and her belly is SO BIG. i'm thinking c-section. i hope not but that's what my inclination is. of course i know our bodies are made to stretch to have babies but she is so little. we will see!

i can stay here until wednesday night so i hope something happens before then. there are some storms moving through right now and they say that sometimes helps things move along. i'm hoping for a phone call either tonight or in the morning! i will keep erica updated as my internet access is limited.

thanks for all your well wishes!!!!!

[OneTreeHillAddict]

I was told babyDS needed to be a C section so I went along with it. (He was almost 11 pounds) but if I had to do it again I'd go natural again. C sections are horrible! I hope the poor girl doesn't have to do that. :headache: My first two were born without any meds at all. With DD I didn't even have an IV. She came so fast I didn't have time to be put in a room! :eek: She was born on the exam table. That was not comfortable but it still beat that needle in my back. Yikes! Have fun and good luck! Hope ya get to meet her soon. :cloud9:

Speaking of baby news. :laughing: I got the funniest news ever yesterday. You know that jerk of an ex of my sisters? The new girl he's been messing around with is pregnant! :lmao::rotfl2::lmao: Serves him right. Karma bites don't it? It really took a chunk out of his you know what! :laughing: I hope I see him around town sometime!

[shannon47142]

good thoughts, prayers and well wishes for everyone :hug:

[MeMom]

I hope it all happens before you have to leave. I know how much you want to be in on it. Keep us posted.

[CanadianWDWfan]

I just got in from work and I thought there would be baby news....I hope she arrives before you have to leave.

Your a great big sister to be there for your brother. ;)

Sending well wishes!!!

:bride: HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!! :groom:

[punkin413]

just another tiny update before i go to bed. i spoke to jordan a couple of hours ago and she said the contractions are steady but the same and that she's feeling very nauseous. she said if nothing happens between now and in the morning, her weekly appointment is at 11:00 a.m. tomorrow anyway and she will call me as soon as she's done with that to let me know what the doctor says.

oh, and the main reason i want to be here is to of course meet my new niece and support my brother (who is VERY stressed out!!!!). but also i'm the only sane one in my family!!!!!!!! :rotfl:

hopefully we'll know something at the very latest tomorrow around lunchtime. margot has apparently gotten very comfortable and doesn't feel like coming out yet. :rolleyes:

[MeMom]

just another tiny update before i go to bed. i spoke to jordan a couple of hours ago and she said the contractions are steady but the same and that she's feeling very nauseous. she said if nothing happens between now and in the morning, her weekly appointment is at 11:00 a.m. tomorrow anyway and she will call me as soon as she's done with that to let me know what the doctor says.

oh, and the main reason i want to be here is to of course meet my new niece and support my brother (who is VERY stressed out!!!!). but also i'm the only sane one in my family!!!!!!!! :rotfl:

hopefully we'll know something at the very latest tomorrow around lunchtime. margot has apparently gotten very comfortable and doesn't feel like coming out yet. :rolleyes:

That's why Jill went to the hospital last Saturday night. She had felt sick at her stomach all evening. Maybe that bad feeling will mean good things for Jordan, too.

Surely her doctor will just send her on to the hospital today. Jill just told her doctor all her people had to come from other states and the doctor had no problem with scheduling an induction. Of course, Bella didn't cooperate with the induction appointment, and she messed up everyone's plans by coming early, but she's cute enough that we have forgiven her. :love:

[Charleston Princess]

Dawn, I do hope Margot arrives soon -- the suspense is killing me! :lmao: Really, I hope she decides to come today so that you will be there to greet her. :goodvibes

[2xcited2sleep]

Sending all kinds of well wishes your way! Can't wait to "meet" baby Margot!! :hug:

[CanadianWDWfan]

Good thoughts today! :goodvibes

You aren't totally sane....you are a little Disney nuts....:rotfl2:

[DisneyJo]

She really doesn't want to arrive does she? Poor Jordan I hope Margot makes an appearance very soon!

[lmillercrew]

Here's to hoping that you can put "Aunt" in the front of your name soon!

[dawz1026]

If Margot only knew how many of us are waiting on her :rotfl:

[aldisneygrl]

Well, I guess Margot doesn't realize how my cyber aunts and uncles are waiting on her. :rolleyes1:rotfl:

I hope she makes an appearance today. :lovestruc

[VandyFan10]

Hey guys

Not sure if I should even post but I'm sure Dawn will be telling everyone anyway.

The baby was born this morning. I don't have any details.

She sent me a text about 2p and had found out. Jordan did not call them.

I can't imagine what they are dealing with right now, but I'm sure many thoughts and prayers are appreciated. :grouphug:

I wish I could just see her to give her a BIG hug. I'm hoping I will get that opportunity tonight! :goodvibes

[troobabiee7]

Thanks for keeping us updated. Is everything OK?? I hope everything went well :hug:

[BrooklynnsMommy]

YEA!!!! So glad Margot decided to arrive before Dawn headed home. Hope Mom and baby are doing well!

[k_reile]

Dawn....glad baby Margot made a safe arrival. Sorry you weren;t called...does that mean you brother was not there?? Thats what would have been really upsetting if he did not get to witness the birth! :hug:

[BrooklynnsMommy]

:hug::hug::hug::hug:Hugs to you and Brett!!!!!:hug::hug::hug::hug:

[micandminforever]

Thoughts and prayer with your family.

[Eventer98]

Congrats Dawn on becoming an aunt :)

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, Dawn, I am sorry that you weren't called! Hope you have been visiting with your new niece all afternoon! :hug:

[MeMom]

Sorry things didn't play out in a way that would have allowed for all of you to share in the first hours of Margot's arrival. I know that you will be an awesome aunt to her whenever you are with her. She is a lucky little baby to have you in her life!

Tell Brett to hang in there and keep his cool in a sticky situation. It'll be the best thing for him and for Margot. Tell him we all send our congratulations, and we know he will be a great dad to his little girl.

Know that many Dis friends are thinking of you today in a special way as you have added this new life to your family. We are hoping for the best things for all of you. :hug:

[aldisneygrl]

WELCOME TO THE WORLD MARGOT!!!!! :cutie:

Dawn, sorry you didn't get the call to be there at her arrival. :mad::hug: I hope it was an honest mistake (i.e. things happened too quickly to call). Enjoy the time you have left to visit with her. You are going to be an awesome aunt, and give you brother a hug from us! :grouphug:

[VandyFan10]

Hey guys....I have pictures :goodvibes

Sorry they are so small but here ya go!

Margot Rain 7lb 11oz 21in born @ 7:45am
http://i391.photobucket.com/albums/oo356/Vandygirls/MargotRain.jpg

Proud Daddy :love:
http://i391.photobucket.com/albums/oo356/Vandygirls/BrettMargot.jpg

I still haven't been able to really talk to Dawn. I just know she had one HECK of a day. They didn't find out about her being born until about 1pm since Jordan never called her. So needless to say they spent the afternoon finding out the best way to handle the situation. She said she would fill everyone in later.

They finally got to go to the hospital about 5pm to see her. And are now getting some dinner and heading home to SLEEP!!

Dawn has to go home in the morning, so I don't know that she will even get to see her again before she leaves.

But I'm sure she is very glad she was here to help her baby brother even though things didn't go as planned.

Thanks for everyone's concern.....I know she will be very happy to see your comments! :flower3:

[kschafer]

Dawn, so sorry you didn't get to be there for her birth but thank goodness you got to spend some time with your niece while you were home. I hope all is well!

[hlrababy]

Congratulations Aunt Dawn!!

You are going to be an awesome Aunt!!!!! :hugh: Congrats Brett!!!!!

[CanadianWDWfan]

:cloud9: CONGRATS ON BECOMING AN AUNTIE!!! :cloud9:

I'm so happy you got to see her today! She looks so cute all bundled up. Your brother should be so proud. :grouphug:

Sorry you found out after the birth, I know how excitted you were to be there. :hug:

Have a good sleep, you have a new little princess to dream of....;)

[shannon47142]

Congrats on a beautiful, healthy baby, Aunt Dawn:cool1:

[troobabiee7]

Aw, congratulations, she's adorable!

[punkin413]

thank you all SO MUCH for your congrats and nice thoughts and prayers. they were definitely needed today!

erica - thank you again for keeping everyone updated. i'm so, so sorry we couldn't see each other this trip. it's just been absolutely crazy.

well, i'm not going to go into all the gory details, but to make a long and very sad story relatively short, here's what happened.

a little background.....i don't want to spread my brother's business on the internet but i'm sure i've mentioned that he and jordan are not together any more. they have dated on and off since high school and have always had a very dramatic, volatile relationship. they broke up twice during her pregnancy, the most recent time in january. ever since she's stayed in constant contact with me, always saying she wanted us all to be involved and yada yada yada. we all know it's not the ideal situation to be having a baby in and that they have a lot of growing up to do (brett is 22 and jordan is 23 - but the age thing doesn't matter. that's old enough to have a baby. but they are both still very immature. although i do have to say i saw a lot of maturity in my brother today) but it is what it is and you have to deal with it, you know?

as you know, jordan said if nothing happened last night, that she had a doctor's appointment today at 11 and would call me when she was done with that to update me. her last text to me last night was, "i will call you soon!!!!" around 12:45 today i still hadn't heard anything so i texted her, saying something like, "hope you're still not waiting on the doctor! what did he say?" she texted back this, "margot was born at 7:45 this morning. it all happened really fast. you all can come by around 5:00 today. we are resting now."

this was at 1:00 IN THE AFTERNOON.

when i got this brett and i were sitting at the DMV because he misplaced his license and we were getting a duplicate. i couldn't NOT show him, so i showed him the text and he just sat there with his mouth open. i knew he was gonna lose it so i grabbed the form he was filling out, gave it back to the woman at the counter and we left. when we got out to the parking lot brett just started SCREAMING at the top of his lungs. it was all i could do to get him into the car.

i don't know why she did what she did but the fact is she did it. and the fact is she has promised me for months now that she would call me when they were headed to the hospital. and she didn't. so that makes her a liar. and a dirty one at that. i don't know how she could be so heartless.

i can understand things happening quickly but what i don't understand is how she neglected to call me after it happened to let me know. it took ME texting HER to even find out margot had been born.

we went straight to my stepmom's office where brett just pretty much cried and freaked out for about an hour, while i was on the phone with my dad, my sister, etc. and any attorney i could talk to. one attorney i found was a big help and we ended up going to his office this afternoon. brett hired him and he's going to file a petition for legitimation and will be representing brett in getting his visitation rights, child support.....everything. i think brett felt TONS better after we talked to him because now he knows exactly how all this works.

around 5:00 we went up to the hospital. under the attorney's advice, we all had agreed to be very nice to jordan. she's the one in control right now and as much as i wanted to punch her in the face (and i truly did) we were nice. it was VERY hard for me. i'm the type of person who doesn't like to be fake. and this was VERY fake. but all that mattered was seeing that beautiful baby and seeing the look in my brother's face when he met her. he is the proudest, most doting dad i've ever seen. it really was a touching experience to be there when he met his daughter. here are some pics.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00721.jpg

my dad, brett and margot. 3 generations!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00722.jpg

i love this picture! i already had a 5x7 printed and framed for brett.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00723.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00726.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00727.jpg

this is my stepmom holding her. she's not really my stepmom any more since she and my dad are divorced. but she was my stepmom for over 20 years and so i still consider her that!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00733.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00734.jpg

grandpa! he says he wants her to call him, "grand dude."

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00738.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00740.jpg

aunt dawn....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00741.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00742.jpg

look at her little cone head!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00748.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00751.jpg

she's so sweet!!!!!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/margot/DSC00752.jpg

the visit went well as can be expected. of course there was tension in the air but it wasn't our fault. we were as nice as we could be considering the situation. jordan said when she got to the hospital this morning she was dialated to 8. so i have no doubt it went fast once she was there. i just don't understand why i didn't get a phone call afterwards until 5 hours later and only after i contacted her first. we are all just very hurt and betrayed right now. and what's the worst part is it didn't have to be this way. just because parents aren't together doesn't mean you have to act like they are scum of the earth. i could go on and on but i won't.

anyway, margot is here and is healthy and beautiful and that's all that matters now. my brother actually just called me and said he's laying in bed looking at the pictures i had printed for him after our visit. he's so funny.

thanks again for all your kind words. :goodvibes

[micandminforever]

She is a beautiful little girl, and you can see the love for her in your brothers eyes. Your family will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.

Have fun this weekend.

[MRNsMommy]

Oh, Dawn!:hug:
You are so right...it didn't have to be this way, and I'm so sorry for your brother...your whole family!
To use a child, a newborn baby, against someone like that is just reprehensible in my eyes! I can feel your hurt in your post, and it made me tear up!
I hope, if for no one else, that she does what's right for little Margot!

Aside from all of that, Margot is absolutely gorgeous! Your brother looks like he's just :lovestruc with her!

[OneTreeHillAddict]

Wow. I don't know what to say. I didn't know they were in that kind of situation. He better get a good lawyer! I have a four male cousins that have full custody of their daughters! It's not unheard of by any means. Margot is a sweetie pie. Her mama not so much. :rolleyes1 I'd wanna slap her in the face too.

Hey...if ya wanna hook him up with Ashley....:rotfl2:

Congrats girly! I hope things go well and you get to spoil her like crazy.

Oh I mailed your package too. You should have it soon. :thumbsup2

[AussieAngel]

Firstly... yayyyyy for Baby Margot!!! She looks very cute and I'm so glad you got to have a cuddle with her! You all look so proud! :yay:

Secondly... booooo for the nasty situation with Jordan. I feel so sad for you because we all know how excited you were to be there for the birth! I really hope everything gets sorted out happily for Brett, and of course, for Margot.

We know one thing for sure - she has a fabulous Aunt Dawn to make her laugh and dress her in lots of Disney clothes!!! :woohoo: :cheer2: :woohoo:

[burly]

Here:hug: have a whole bunch of these..:grouphug::grouphug::grouphug::grouphug: will be praying for a fair solution. Congrats to your brother and the whole family. She is beautiful!!:cool1:

[2xcited2sleep]

Congratulations on a beautiful, happy, healthy baby girl and for handling what has to be a very difficult situation with such grace. :hug:

[mansionterror]

Margot is a beautiful baby, Dawn. I am so sorry that things turned out the way that they did. It is unfortunate that Jordan has to act that way, particularly since your brother wants to be involved. Good for all of you to be proactive and get a lawyer involved from the beginning.

[BrooklynnsMommy]

Margot is beautiful and I'm so glad that you did get to see her before heading home today. You can tell that Brett is totally wrapped around her little tiny finger already! You guys are in my thoughts and prayers as you navigate this sticky situation. Lots of hugs from me and the girls!

[IluvXU]

Oh Dawn... that is just so sad. I am super glad you got to see Margot, she is beautiful. Love and prayers to your family as they muddle through all this.... you sure will need your anniversary trip with Ray now!

[timandlesley]

Oh Dawn, my heart was just breaking reading this, I am so sorry for all that happened. I am glad that he has a lawyer,unfortunately it sounds like he will need it. I bet it was SUPER hard to put on that happy face and walk in there and be "nice", I would have struggled with that too. I am glad that she is healthy, that pic of Brett and her where he is smiling is adorable. She is SUCH a beautiful baby. It's been a long time since I've seen a baby just born so pretty, she is gonna be a looker : ) Congratulations on being an aunt, SO sorry for all you had to go through.
Lesley

[kschafer]

:hug: Oh Dawn. What an unfortunate circumstance for you and your family. Good for you for staying strong and keeping your cool. Brett will really appreciate all you did for him yesterday. Margot needs both of her parents so I'm glad to hear that Brett is taking steps to make sure that happens.

Congrats on becoming an Aunt and do enjoy that little girl!

PS: Grand-dude :lmao: I love it!

[k_reile]

Congrats on being an Aunt. :cool1:She's beautiful. I'm glad she is here and healthy. I'm sorry for the awful situation. I'd want to punch her in the face too:rolleyes1...thats pretty awful of her not to call any of you but she texted you and did not even call Brett the father:confused3....unexcusable...he will definitely need that lawyer if she is going to be that way.

About Grandpa Dude....:lmao: My Dad wanted to be called Grandpa Stud when my newphew was born and my SIL was like you know kids can;t pronounce "s" sounds...so it will be more like grandpa dud. That put an end to that! :rotfl:

[tinkgurl]

Aw Dawn! I'm so sorry about everything..I know what it's like to be in family drama. I hope everything gets better..but congrats on being an Aunt. :hug: She's beautiful.

[troobabiee7]

Oh Dawn, I'm so sorry things turned out the way they did. But first of all let me say congratulations again, and how happy I am that Margot is healthy and has so many people who want to love her :goodvibes

I really hope everything works out for the best. You're right, it's obviously not the ideal situation but parents don't have to be together anymore to respect each other and their rights. I can't even imagine what was going through Jordan's mind when she had the baby and never even bothered to let it's father (and aunt) know. It sounds like she has a whole lot of growing up to do, and hopefully she does it before the realities of raising a baby hit her full force.

Hang in there, I'm sure everything will be straightened out in the end :hug:

[Racey]

Oh Dear Dawn (hope you dont mind me calling you that - i've followed your TR but never posted) that is indeed a selfish and bitter thing to do to you all, she's not only hurt all of you, but in the long run when that little girl grows up and finds out in some way (we all know things will be said by accident) she will make herself look like a nasty and vile mother. Lets hope her darling daughter will forgive her nasty spiteful act.

So, whenever you start to feel angry and upset (which no doubt you will do) you should all close your eyes and remember how Margot looks, sounds and smells (well the good ones that is he he) - it will help. Thank god she is here and healthy

[Hedy]

:grouphug::grouphug:

[Megablocks]

I took a break from school stuff and found out that baby Margot was born! I'm so sorry that it happened that way, but congrats on being an aunt!

Lots and lots of thoughts and prayers for you guys, too; I'm glad that Brett got an attorney. I hope it all works out. :hug:

[MagicShell]

Margot is beautiful, congratulations. I am so sorry about the situation you had to deal with. I hope that Margot's mom will change her attitude and not make her baby suffer. I know that dad's have rights too and I am glad that your brother is going to make sure he gets to be in his daughter's life.

[FauntleroyFAN07]

like everyone else sorry the situation could not have been handled better, it would have been hard for me to keep my cool in that situation...but on the bright side, she is a cutie and i love the cone head, babies heads are so cute when they are born.

so when is dawn expecting?
:goodvibes

[a*lil*bit*goofy]

CONGRATULATIONS on the new miralce to join your family! Your brother looks like he is just beaming.

Good for you for NOT punching her lights out, I would have had a hard time with that too. (in fact, I would be accusing her of leaving deliberately so that she could do the birth on her own after coming right back after...yea, I would be some kind of mad)

Also good for you for making sure your brother is set up with a lawyer to ensure his rights.

The only tip I can give you: Tell your brother to keep a daily diary. Date each entry, and talk about what happened that day. Even if it seems like a small inconsequential detail, it may be needed for reference later. I have learned this, thankfully I learned it before it was too late.

Enjoy her, she is lovely!

[KristinAnne]

Congratulations on becoming an Aunt, Dawn. She is beautiful. I'm sorry the situation turned out as it did. It sounds like you handled yourself wonderfully. I hope everything resolves itself peacefully for you and your family.

[HG_MOM]

Congratulations Dawn!! She is beautiful!
OH...by the way...you look great with a little one in your arms!!

[hlrababy]

Congratulations Aunt Dawn!!!! She is adorable!!!!!

[joy13]

Congrats on being an Aunt! Sorry about all the drama that went with the birth though. :grouphug:

[punkin413]

i'm home and glad to be here. i'm SO TIRED mentally from dealing with all that. but i know it's not over. i'm just glad we have an attorney sort of dealing with things now so it's not all "on" us.

thank you all so much for all your hugs, prayers, good thoughts and just kind words in general. i had 6 pages to read when i got home!!!!! you guys rock. there's no way i'm gonna have time to reply to all that so i just want to say THANK YOU to you all. you have no idea what it means to me. :grouphug: i will reply to any specific questions below. if you haven't seen it yet, i posted a summary of what happened on page 105.

please continue to keep brett and margot in your thoughts and prayers. i got home today to discover that jordan had deleted me from her friends on her facebook and myspace account. not a big deal except that that's the way we always communicated. i didn't do anything to provoke it so it kind of bothers me just because i hope she doesn't try to do anything crazy like leave with the baby or something. i know she has relatives in texas. surely not, but i wouldn't put it past her. i'm going to call the attorney tomorrow and let him know this just in case he can get a court hearing date quicker. i didn't tell my brother because i didn't want to worry him.

why do people have to act this way? what in the world is wrong with a family that just wants to love a little baby? i don't get it. :confused3 jordan has a 5-year-old who sees her daddy regularly. i don't know what the difference is with brett.

Glad I could help! That actually makes a lot of sense with the Top of the Rock, since you'll get to see the day, sunset and night view. It's gonna be gorgeous :goodvibes Another main reason why I said to switch it was because it would be really hectic to fit everything in, but it works out perfectly with switching your dinners. Just buy your tickets early! When you're in the area that morning to see St. Patrick's Cathedral and start your walk down 5th Ave, buy your tickets then. It's a timed entry so you can pick whatever time you want and you know you're guaranteed to get in since it could get crowded on a holiday weekend. And even if you're not into catching a glimpse of the Today Show, definitely take some time walking around Rockefeller Center. There are cute stores ad cafes in the basement, and the entire area's really pretty. You have to see the Atlas statue! It's pretty small too, so you can see it all easily in like a half hour. You girls are gonna have the best time! Be sure to take a ton of pics because you know we're gonna want a TR! :laughing:

Best of luck to Jordan! Hopefully Margot's here soon :goodvibes Happy Easter!

thanks again for your tips! i really do appreciate them.

Dawn-

Great updates as usual! I am wondering if this baby will be an Easter baby or not?? umm..:cool1: So when are you and Ray going to have some little ones to bring on your disney adventures? Matt and I found out we are expecting a little one in September :dance3: We are thrilled! I am already planning our first WDW trip with him or her!! haha :wizard:

thanks! ray and i are actually going to start trying very soon. not yet though! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!! :hug:

Dawn, I am late to this TR, but I have spent quite some time the past few days reading and I LOVE it!

Thanks for sharing.:goodvibes

thanks!!! glad you're enjoying it.

Happy Easter to everyone:goodvibes
Dan I'm hoping for an Easter BunnyBaby!!!!;)
Your NYC plans sound great !! I know nothing about the City!!:confused3however if anyone is comingto the NY side of Niagara Falls I can help a bit !!:rotfl2:
I have only34 days toDisney and 35 to the HUGE Meet at Epcot !!!!!

thanks! hope you had a good easter too. my mom went to niagara falls a few years ago and she loved it. :cool1: for your upcoming disney trip!!!!!

That show looks hilarious, we'll definitely have to see that in December :rotfl:

I'm so pleased Ray got his Dole Whip, he did look as though he was on a mission :rotfl2:

Good luck with the baby, hope she arrives soon!!!

it was a really cute show. and yes, ray is SERIOUS about his dole whip floats! :rotfl:

Whoa....either this is going to be one really long labor or Auntie Dawn has already gotten her baby brain going! :rotfl:


:rotfl2: i can't believe i did that! like i told you in my text, at least they were both religious holidays!

[punkin413]

Be safe in your travels! Hoping for a safe and healthy baby girl!

On a side note, I just finished reading all 4 books in the Twilight saga and I LOVED them! I tend to agree with you about the movie. I spent the whole movie telling DH about ways they should have done it to make it better!

thanks! i just hope new moon is better than twilight as far as the movie goes. eclipse has the potential to be GREAT so i'm really looking forward to that one!

I went to NYC last August - it was soooooooo fun! We saw Mama Mia - but I just saw Wicked in February - the traveling production. It is soooooooooooo good! I think we ate at the Blue Fin - is it a tai restaurant? Here is a picture of the interior:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v226/maddiesworld/croppedrestaurant.jpg

And I hope the baby is coming! ELV's to her!

i know they have a lot of seafood but the decor does look similar. here's the website that has some pictures of the place:

http://www.brguestrestaurants.com/restaurants/blue_fin/index.php

everyone i've talked to that has seen wicked says it's amazing! :yay:

Happy Anniversary Dawn!:love::love::love:

thank you! i can't believe you knew that. :laughing:

I was told babyDS needed to be a C section so I went along with it. (He was almost 11 pounds) but if I had to do it again I'd go natural again. C sections are horrible! I hope the poor girl doesn't have to do that. :headache: My first two were born without any meds at all. With DD I didn't even have an IV. She came so fast I didn't have time to be put in a room! :eek: She was born on the exam table. That was not comfortable but it still beat that needle in my back. Yikes! Have fun and good luck! Hope ya get to meet her soon. :cloud9:

Speaking of baby news. :laughing: I got the funniest news ever yesterday. You know that jerk of an ex of my sisters? The new girl he's been messing around with is pregnant! :lmao::rotfl2::lmao: Serves him right. Karma bites don't it? It really took a chunk out of his you know what! :laughing: I hope I see him around town sometime!

my mom had me in 20 minutes so i hope to take after her! :laughing:

so funny about your sister's ex. what goes around comes around!

:bride: HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!! :groom:

thanks!!! i can't believe you remembered, too!

Jill just told her doctor all her people had to come from other states and the doctor had no problem with scheduling an induction. Of course, Bella didn't cooperate with the induction appointment, and she messed up everyone's plans by coming early, but she's cute enough that we have forgiven her. :love:

:goodvibes

PS: Grand-dude :lmao: I love it!

i thought it had a nice ring to it, too.

About Grandpa Dude....:lmao: My Dad wanted to be called Grandpa Stud when my newphew was born and my SIL was like you know kids can;t pronounce "s" sounds...so it will be more like grandpa dud. That put an end to that! :rotfl:

:rotfl:

Oh Dear Dawn (hope you dont mind me calling you that - i've followed your TR but never posted) that is indeed a selfish and bitter thing to do to you all, she's not only hurt all of you, but in the long run when that little girl grows up and finds out in some way (we all know things will be said by accident) she will make herself look like a nasty and vile mother. Lets hope her darling daughter will forgive her nasty spiteful act.

So, whenever you start to feel angry and upset (which no doubt you will do) you should all close your eyes and remember how Margot looks, sounds and smells (well the good ones that is he he) - it will help. Thank god she is here and healthy

thanks for saying hello!!! and for reading. and thanks for that tip. i will definitely think of her sweet little face when i worry about the situation to ease my worries.


so when is dawn expecting?
:goodvibes

not you, too!!!! :laughing: give me a break....we don't even have maternity coverage yet! that won't kick in until june and i gotta get some dental work done before i get pregnant. so you've got awhile to wait.

The only tip I can give you: Tell your brother to keep a daily diary. Date each entry, and talk about what happened that day. Even if it seems like a small inconsequential detail, it may be needed for reference later. I have learned this, thankfully I learned it before it was too late.

thanks! i texted him and told him to start doing this. hope he takes your/my advice!

[VandyFan10]

The only tip I can give you: Tell your brother to keep a daily diary. Date each entry, and talk about what happened that day. Even if it seems like a small inconsequential detail, it may be needed for reference later.
thanks! i texted him and told him to start doing this. hope he takes your/my advice!


I thought about this during one of our conversations and forgot to mention it.....VERY good call Goofy :thumbsup2 That is always a good thing to do and it makes you look SO organized :goodvibes....even if you aren't :laughing:

BTW Lil Bit Goofy...glad to see you made it over to the Vandy thread :upsidedow....I was very excited to see you there!!!

I've been thinking a lot about you guys. I hope this will get better....unfortunately Brett probably has a long fight ahead. If he can just be the bigger person in all this he will accomplish everything he's wanting and the next 20 years down the road when it all really matters Margot will KNOW she has a wonderful daddy!! And in the end I'm sure that's what he wants.....:grouphug:

[dawz1026]

Jordan is inmature and trying to use the baby as revenge on your poor brother.Unfortunately she is very young and I am surprised her family did not step in and call you unless they are the reason for some of her actions.He will see his daughter and you will see your niece.God will work it out for you both.Bless her lil self.Congrats to you and your brother..

[Eventer98]

I agree with Erica about the journal. My best friend and her husband spent years trying to adopt her deceased SIL's daughter. The deadbeat, drug addict father was in and out of the little girl's life. She kept track of every phone call and visit...I think it helped b/c the judge saw that the "dad" only called every 6-9 months even though he lived locally. Finally things went in her favor a few years back and they have never heard from the "dad" since. It will all work out somehow but it may take awhile :)

[FauntleroyFAN07]

not you, too!!!! :laughing: give me a break....we don't even have maternity coverage yet! that won't kick in until june and i gotta get some dental work done before i get pregnant. so you've got awhile to wait.



well you get the coverage in june, get the dental work done this year, pregnant by july after coverage, then hvae the baby next marchish? all planned out for you.

congrats on the baby!!!!:goodvibes:cool1: i am guessing you are having a boy.
:laughing:

[DisneyJo]

Congratulations Auntie Dawn she really is a sweetie. I hope Jordan comes to her senses very soon, it all seems very weird especially unfriending you on FB :hug:

[bedillamouse]

Well I just read your whole report in 2 days....ignoring my housecleaning in the process!:rotfl: Which I don't mind in the least....I abhor housecleaning!

1st -great report...I'm trying to convince my DH to go to WDW this Dec....although I was a bit surprised by the crowds in your pictures. One of the reasons I wanted to go in early Dec was to have small crowds....hmmm...we went last year in early june and it was hot and crowded....yuck!

2nd - Congrats on the aunt status. I was an aunt long before I was a mom and it was the best experience in the world! Not to say becoming an aunt after you are a mom is bad it just that being an aunt first is awesome cuz you get to spoil the heck out of the kid and they get your undivided attention. My nephew who is 13 now *gulp* had my attention for 9 years before I had my kids and he still talks about special "dates" with his Aunt Amy. They are special memories and moments that can't be replaced!

:scared1: was how I looked when I read about you all being excluded from the birth...especially your brother....just not playing nice! I hope it all works out!

[arkie]

Dawn, I am a regular lurker on your all your reports. I just wanted to stop in and say you have a beautiful neice. Margot and Brett are very lucky to have you in their corner.
I really enjoy reading not only about your Disney trips, but I also love all the little mini stories you put in about your life. By the way I made your Mexican dish and we love it.

[DisneyLaura]

Dawn - first of all Margot is beautiful and Brett should be very proud (I kjnow he is because I can see the sparkle in his eyes while he was looking at her in the pictures). Second - I'm so sorry for the way things turned out but what I'm thinking someone was telling her to do those things. Why would she all of sudden stop talking to you and physcially deleting you from her friends lists on facebook and myspace, something sounds fishy. Tell Brett I'm praying for him and his new baby girl and that she is gorgeous.

Oh and you're NYC plans sound awesome. A friend told me when we went to the city a couple of weeks ago that Sardi's is the place to go to see famous people.

We saw Mary Poppins and it was awesome. We were in the 6th row. My friend donated $150 and we got a backstage tour and got to meet Mary, Burt and the Banks children. It was awesome!

[CanadianWDWfan]

I just want to send you and your brother a big hug. You must feel so confused and hurt. :hug:

Margot is so beautiful, and very lucky to have all of you to love her.

I will pray that your brother will get the opertunity to get to know his daughter. He needs to fight for her, it's so worth it!

I hope Jordan decides to grow up and do what's best for her baby.


:flower3: :flower3: :flower3: :flower3: :flower3: :flower3: :flower3: :flower3:


Are you looking forward to your anniversary weekend?
I hope you can still enjoy the time with Ray and have a special time. ;)

[MaceysMom]

So she had the baby and didn't even call your BROTHER to let him know? WOW!!! I don't get it. I had my baby younger than that and I didn't act that way!!! O well. The baby is here healthy and Brett is stepping up to the plate. yea for him. Congrats she is beautiful! hopefully she will get he head together and they can raise her together without to much confrontation. I will pray for you and your family.:lovestruc

[End_User-X]

I'm so glad the baby is healthy. Y'all will be in our prayers for the turmoil that's going on. :hug: On a lighter note:

here you can see the CMs telling people where the line ends.http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3343/3449493410_fde3f7c652_o.jpg

What CMs? I was too busy looking at the pretty girl in the pink shirt. :rolleyes1

[punkin413]

just wanted to tell you guys that ray and i are getting ready to leave for the mountains for the weekend! i'm so excited. i NEED a break!

brett, audrey (my stepmom) and dad have heard nothing from jordan. they've called and texted her to see if they could see margot this weekend and she hasn't responded. looks like brett might have to wait until the legitimation hearing before he can see her. such a shame. i feel bad for him because i know he's so sad and he just wants to see his baby girl. i wish i could say what i think of jordan here but i will get banned from the dis if i do that.

i also wanted to tell you all who have TRs that i'm reading that i'm so sorry i haven't been keeping up. with getting back home on wednesday and catching up with work and now leaving again, it's just been crazy! i will try next week to catch up.

hope you all have a good weekend!

[VandyFan10]

just wanted to tell you guys that ray and i are getting ready to leave for the mountains for the weekend! i'm so excited. i NEED a break!

HAVE FUN!!!!!!! :yay::woohoo::yay:

And TURN OFF YOUR PHONE....or just LEAVE it at home!!!! ;)
Ray will have his....will be fine :upsidedow

i wish i could say what i think of jordan here but i will get banned from the dis if i do that.

:rotfl::lmao::rotfl:

[mansionterror]

Have a wonderful time Dawn! Try to keep your mind off of all this stuff. I hope you come home to better news. :hug:

[troobabiee7]

Hey Dawn! Again, I'm sorry your family has to deal with this mess. Hopefully it all works out for the best.

Have a great weekend in the mountains! Try to let everything go and just relax! :goodvibes:

Just as a side note - my friends and I went to the Met yesterday and spent 2-hours just walking around the top floor. The place is huge! Room after room took my breath away - the high ceilings, columns, domes, lighting... it's like stepping into a Medieval castle. You're gonna love it!

[MagicShell]

Dawn, I hope you can have a great weekend without worrying too much about your brother. I know it can't be easy. Your situation sounds so much like a situation with some good friends of mine. In their case the mother lived with the father's family during her pregnancy and for six months after the baby was born. The parents were engaged but he decided to call off their wedding because they were not getting along. When that happened, the mom took the baby and wouldn't even let the dad or his family know where she was. They had to wait for the court to grant them permission before they could see him again. That took over a month. So they went from being with him everyday to not even knowing where he was for a month. I am so sorry that your family is going through this. I hope it will get better but when someone is so selfish that they only consider themselves it is a long hard battle.

[DisneyLaura]

just wanted to tell you guys that ray and i are getting ready to leave for the mountains for the weekend! i'm so excited. i NEED a break!

Have fun

brett, audrey (my stepmom) and dad have heard nothing from jordan. they've called and texted her to see if they could see margot this weekend and she hasn't responded. looks like brett might have to wait until the legitimation hearing before he can see her. such a shame. i feel bad for him because i know he's so sad and he just wants to see his baby girl. i wish i could say what i think of jordan here but i will get banned from the dis if i do that.

Say nothing I totally know what you are thinking. I feel so sad for your brother, hopefully things will get straightened out very fast.

[MA pigletfan]

hey dawn..i am a little late to the party..but First congratulations on your beautiful new niece..she is a cutey..and your brother looks so proud :)
2nd i am so sorry about the drama..i hope everything works out for your family!!!!

[MRNsMommy]

Have fun on your trip! I love the mountains, so I'm very jealous!

[scottny]

Sorry to hear of all the problems. She is a cutie.

Have a great weekend.

[joy13]

Have a great weekend - sounds like it comes at the perfect time! I'm sorry your brother is having to go through all that. I wish people could put kids first (Jordan I mean).

As to the Blue Fin, it does look similar, but I looked at the menu - but it doesn't look like it's the same place. It looks very good though!

[rentayenta]

:hug: :goodvibes

[heatherlizz602]

Hey Dawn. I hope you have an enjoyable weekend with Ray. You guys deserve it. Everything will turn out fine It just will take some time. Your brother deserves alot of credit for going through this. Alot of kids wouldn't take on something like this. I can't understand people like Jordan.:sad2:

[daisy_77]

Wow, so sorry to hear about all the drama. It is too bad that this girl is hurting your brother like this. She is also hurting that precious little baby with her actions. I pray that all will turn out great for your brother and that beautiful baby girl of his.:hug:

I hope you had a great time this weekend!

[Camster0307]

Hey Dawn - first off, just want to say that I hope you and Ray enjoyed your weekend away. I hope you were both able to have some fun for yourselves!

And please don't apoligize about not keeping up with reports - life is messy and sometimes gets in the way of doing the things we enjoy. I've been guilty myself of being MIA lately - just too much going on.

I have been reading through your report and am pretty much up to date. So, so sorry for all the drama surrounding the birth of your niece. Don't let it put a damper too much on this wonderful moment though. She is a BEAUTIFUL baby and I can just see the love and joy on you, your brother and the rest of your family's faces. I totally agree with the suggestion for your brother to keep a journal - please make sure he is doing it. And don't ever give up about asking to see the baby - regardless of how much Jordan makes it difficult or refuses. And document EVERY single time you asked to see her and what the excuse was as to why you couldn't. I do believe that info. could come in handy if needed.

I'll keep you and your familiy in my prayers.:hug:

[MaceysMom]

Have a romantic weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:love::love::love:

[punkin413]

I thought about this during one of our conversations and forgot to mention it.....VERY good call Goofy :thumbsup2 That is always a good thing to do and it makes you look SO organized :goodvibes....even if you aren't :laughing:

BTW Lil Bit Goofy...glad to see you made it over to the Vandy thread :upsidedow....I was very excited to see you there!!!

I've been thinking a lot about you guys. I hope this will get better....unfortunately Brett probably has a long fight ahead. If he can just be the bigger person in all this he will accomplish everything he's wanting and the next 20 years down the road when it all really matters Margot will KNOW she has a wonderful daddy!! And in the end I'm sure that's what he wants.....:grouphug:

i told brett this but i don't know if he's doing it or not. audrey is keeping a communication log for every time any of us talk to her or her family. i also have a "brett/jordan timeline" where i've documented everything that's happen since the beginning of her pregnancy.

Jordan is inmature and trying to use the baby as revenge on your poor brother.Unfortunately she is very young and I am surprised her family did not step in and call you unless they are the reason for some of her actions.He will see his daughter and you will see your niece.God will work it out for you both.Bless her lil self.Congrats to you and your brother..

yeah, her family is part of the problem i think. her mom's not very friendly and is just very stand-offish. thanks for the encouragement!

I agree with Erica about the journal. My best friend and her husband spent years trying to adopt her deceased SIL's daughter. The deadbeat, drug addict father was in and out of the little girl's life. She kept track of every phone call and visit...I think it helped b/c the judge saw that the "dad" only called every 6-9 months even though he lived locally. Finally things went in her favor a few years back and they have never heard from the "dad" since. It will all work out somehow but it may take awhile :)

i told him to try to keep one. i hope he does. glad to hear the situation worked out for your friend.

well you get the coverage in june, get the dental work done this year, pregnant by july after coverage, then hvae the baby next marchish? all planned out for you.

congrats on the baby!!!!:goodvibes:cool1: i am guessing you are having a boy.
:laughing:

slow down, speedy! glad to know i have a pregnancy plan already in place though. :laughing:

Congratulations Auntie Dawn she really is a sweetie. I hope Jordan comes to her senses very soon, it all seems very weird especially unfriending you on FB :hug:

thanks! i hope so too. she's a very silly girl and i will leave it at that. ;)

Well I just read your whole report in 2 days....ignoring my housecleaning in the process!:rotfl: Which I don't mind in the least....I abhor housecleaning!

1st -great report...I'm trying to convince my DH to go to WDW this Dec....although I was a bit surprised by the crowds in your pictures. One of the reasons I wanted to go in early Dec was to have small crowds....hmmm...we went last year in early june and it was hot and crowded....yuck!

2nd - Congrats on the aunt status. I was an aunt long before I was a mom and it was the best experience in the world! Not to say becoming an aunt after you are a mom is bad it just that being an aunt first is awesome cuz you get to spoil the heck out of the kid and they get your undivided attention. My nephew who is 13 now *gulp* had my attention for 9 years before I had my kids and he still talks about special "dates" with his Aunt Amy. They are special memories and moments that can't be replaced!

:scared1: was how I looked when I read about you all being excluded from the birth...especially your brother....just not playing nice! I hope it all works out!

welcome!!!!! thanks for reading!

i was surprised by the crowds too but i knew they'd be heavier than what we're used to. as an adult i've only been in late april, early may and september so there's usually low crowds. but the trip was awesome anyway!

so cute about your nephew! i can't wait to spoil her rotten!!!!! :goodvibes

Dawn, I am a regular lurker on your all your reports. I just wanted to stop in and say you have a beautiful neice. Margot and Brett are very lucky to have you in their corner.
I really enjoy reading not only about your Disney trips, but I also love all the little mini stories you put in about your life. By the way I made your Mexican dish and we love it.

thank you! and thanks for saying hello. glad to hear you liked the mexican lasagna.

[punkin413]

Dawn - first of all Margot is beautiful and Brett should be very proud (I kjnow he is because I can see the sparkle in his eyes while he was looking at her in the pictures). Second - I'm so sorry for the way things turned out but what I'm thinking someone was telling her to do those things. Why would she all of sudden stop talking to you and physcially deleting you from her friends lists on facebook and myspace, something sounds fishy. Tell Brett I'm praying for him and his new baby girl and that she is gorgeous.

Oh and you're NYC plans sound awesome. A friend told me when we went to the city a couple of weeks ago that Sardi's is the place to go to see famous people.

We saw Mary Poppins and it was awesome. We were in the 6th row. My friend donated $150 and we got a backstage tour and got to meet Mary, Burt and the Banks children. It was awesome!

brett is definitely one of the proudest daddies i've ever seen! it was so cute. i think her mom had a big influence on all this. that's what we all think. her mom is a very strange bird.

yeah, anna saw samuel l. jackson and morgan freeman there last year. i can't wait! so cool that you got to meet mary and the others!!!!!!

I just want to send you and your brother a big hug. You must feel so confused and hurt. :hug:

Margot is so beautiful, and very lucky to have all of you to love her.

I will pray that your brother will get the opertunity to get to know his daughter. He needs to fight for her, it's so worth it!

I hope Jordan decides to grow up and do what's best for her baby.


:flower3: :flower3: :flower3: :flower3: :flower3: :flower3: :flower3: :flower3:


Are you looking forward to your anniversary weekend?
I hope you can still enjoy the time with Ray and have a special time. ;)

thanks for the hugs! they are appreciated. i hope jordan grows up too. i just don't get it.

So she had the baby and didn't even call your BROTHER to let him know? WOW!!! I don't get it. I had my baby younger than that and I didn't act that way!!! O well. The baby is here healthy and Brett is stepping up to the plate. yea for him. Congrats she is beautiful! hopefully she will get he head together and they can raise her together without to much confrontation. I will pray for you and your family.:lovestruc

yeah. exactly. it's just such a shame.

I'm so glad the baby is healthy. Y'all will be in our prayers for the turmoil that's going on. :hug: On a lighter note:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3343/3449493410_fde3f7c652_o.jpg

What CMs? I was too busy looking at the pretty girl in the pink shirt. :rolleyes1

:lmao: why am i not surprised???? ;)

[hlrababy]

I can't wait to hear about your weekend!!

BTW, you are going to love Wicked!!! It was so awesome!! It is by far the best show we have seen!

[punkin413]

HAVE FUN!!!!!!! :yay::woohoo::yay:

And TURN OFF YOUR PHONE....or just LEAVE it at home!!!! ;)
Ray will have his....will be fine :upsidedow

:rotfl::lmao::rotfl:

thanks! i turned it off for the most part but did check messages a few times. i couldn't help it. :rolleyes:

Have a wonderful time Dawn! Try to keep your mind off of all this stuff. I hope you come home to better news. :hug:

thanks!

Hey Dawn! Again, I'm sorry your family has to deal with this mess. Hopefully it all works out for the best.

Have a great weekend in the mountains! Try to let everything go and just relax! :goodvibes:

Just as a side note - my friends and I went to the Met yesterday and spent 2-hours just walking around the top floor. The place is huge! Room after room took my breath away - the high ceilings, columns, domes, lighting... it's like stepping into a Medieval castle. You're gonna love it!

thanks! very cool about the met. i'm getting really excited!!!! we're almost at the 30-day mark! :woohoo:

Dawn, I hope you can have a great weekend without worrying too much about your brother. I know it can't be easy. Your situation sounds so much like a situation with some good friends of mine. In their case the mother lived with the father's family during her pregnancy and for six months after the baby was born. The parents were engaged but he decided to call off their wedding because they were not getting along. When that happened, the mom took the baby and wouldn't even let the dad or his family know where she was. They had to wait for the court to grant them permission before they could see him again. That took over a month. So they went from being with him everyday to not even knowing where he was for a month. I am so sorry that your family is going through this. I hope it will get better but when someone is so selfish that they only consider themselves it is a long hard battle.

thanks! that's so awful about your friends. i'm glad that brett is getting this done early while margot is still so little. these days are precious that he's missing but i figure they get even more precious as the baby gets older and starts talking and walking, etc. i don't want him to miss that.

Have fun

Say nothing I totally know what you are thinking. I feel so sad for your brother, hopefully things will get straightened out very fast.

thanks! i hope so too.

hey dawn..i am a little late to the party..but First congratulations on your beautiful new niece..she is a cutey..and your brother looks so proud :)
2nd i am so sorry about the drama..i hope everything works out for your family!!!!

hey! thanks! brett was so thrilled - it was so cute.

Have fun on your trip! I love the mountains, so I'm very jealous!

thanks! it was gorgeous!

Sorry to hear of all the problems. She is a cutie.

Have a great weekend.

thanks! i agree that she's a cutie. so sweet.

Have a great weekend - sounds like it comes at the perfect time! I'm sorry your brother is having to go through all that. I wish people could put kids first (Jordan I mean).

As to the Blue Fin, it does look similar, but I looked at the menu - but it doesn't look like it's the same place. It looks very good though!

i really needed this weekend for sure! too bad it's not the same place. i hope it's good! anna's been there before and she loved it.

:hug: :goodvibes

thanks. ;)

Hey Dawn. I hope you have an enjoyable weekend with Ray. You guys deserve it. Everything will turn out fine It just will take some time. Your brother deserves alot of credit for going through this. Alot of kids wouldn't take on something like this. I can't understand people like Jordan.:sad2:

thanks! i keep telling brett that this will take time but that jordan is just postponing the inevitable. he will get his time with margot. it's just unfortunate that he's going to have to fight for it.

Wow, so sorry to hear about all the drama. It is too bad that this girl is hurting your brother like this. She is also hurting that precious little baby with her actions. I pray that all will turn out great for your brother and that beautiful baby girl of his.:hug:

I hope you had a great time this weekend!

thanks! i agree and it blows my mind to know that she doesn't see how she's hurting her own child. whatever happened between her and my brother is between them and is the past, has nothing to do with the baby. and if she has concerns about him taking care of the baby then let's address those, not just ignore the fact that he's the daddy! i don't get it.

Hey Dawn - first off, just want to say that I hope you and Ray enjoyed your weekend away. I hope you were both able to have some fun for yourselves!

And please don't apoligize about not keeping up with reports - life is messy and sometimes gets in the way of doing the things we enjoy. I've been guilty myself of being MIA lately - just too much going on.

I have been reading through your report and am pretty much up to date. So, so sorry for all the drama surrounding the birth of your niece. Don't let it put a damper too much on this wonderful moment though. She is a BEAUTIFUL baby and I can just see the love and joy on you, your brother and the rest of your family's faces. I totally agree with the suggestion for your brother to keep a journal - please make sure he is doing it. And don't ever give up about asking to see the baby - regardless of how much Jordan makes it difficult or refuses. And document EVERY single time you asked to see her and what the excuse was as to why you couldn't. I do believe that info. could come in handy if needed.

I'll keep you and your familiy in my prayers.:hug:

thanks! i have told brett to keep a journal. he's not good about that sorta thing but i hope he's doing it. audrey (his mom/my stepmom) is keeping a log of all his/our communications with her or her family. plus i have been keeping a timeline of everything since she's been pregnant because i just had a feeling this might happen. i was hoping my feeling was wrong though!

Have a romantic weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:love::love::love:

thanks! :goodvibes

[punkin413]

I can't wait to hear about your weekend!!

BTW, you are going to love Wicked!!! It was so awesome!! It is by far the best show we have seen!

stay tuned.....

i got your text - i can't wait! i'm so excited now!!!!!

[punkin413]

thought i'd show you guys some pictures from our weekend getaway and do a little mini TR. no news as far as margot goes. my dad did talk to jordan's dad on friday but nothing came of it except an ugly phone call from jordan to brett. i refuse to sink to her level so i won't repeat what she said here. let's just say it was very ugly and actually very comical too. brett's attorney is supposed to call tomorrow with the date of his hearing, but i know it's in early may and that brett got a great judge. so just keep him in your thoughts and prayers. he's doing okay - just misses his baby girl and wishes he could see her. we don't even know how she's doing! it's really very sad and frustrating.

okay......on to more positive, fun things!

i SO needed this trip - you have no idea. we left friday around lunchtime, made a pit stop at walmart to get food for the trip, got some subway for lunch and we were on our way by around 1:30! we got to the cabin around 2:45. although i followed google maps and that had me going down a very scary dirt road. so i called the owner and he gave me a better way to go. thank goodness! we were WAY UP HIGH on the side of screamer mountain - it was such a beautiful area. here's the cabin.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00753.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00754.jpg

this is what you see when you walk in - the kitchen and dining room area.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00755.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00759.jpg

here's the bedroom downstairs, which is the one we ended up using. it was just easier to all be downstairs and the hot tub was right outside, so it was nice. plus it was a king bed so there was room for us and the dogs!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00760.jpg

this is the living room area looking down from upstairs....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00764.jpg

this is the loft area just at the top of the stairs. it was so cute! it was a nice futon-type thing and they had curtains to pull around it for privacy. just perfect for a kid or teenager!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00766.jpg

there was another bedroom upstairs that i didn't get a picture of. this is the porch on the back of the house.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00770.jpg

and here's our lovely view.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00771.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00772.jpg

you can see the hot tub around the corner in this one....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00774.jpg

and my favorite part - the hot tub!!!! so nice to have. you can see where they blocked off the side view because there are neighbors on that side. and once you lift the top off, it sits on the back side and blocks that view, too. so the only open side is looking out towards the mountains.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00776.jpg

the view from the hot tub....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00778.jpg

looking down from the porch - we were pretty high up!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00780.jpg

the boys exploring their new home for the weekend.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00781.jpg

continued in next post: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31424232&postcount=1630

[punkin413]

we unpacked, then relaxed in the hot tub for awhile. so nice. :cloud9: then we decided to go find some dinner. we ended up at a little carribean place called rumor haz it. first we each got a margarita!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00783.jpg

we got an appetizer of spinach and artichoke dip. it was SO GOOD - some of the best i've ever had! you know i have food porn. ;)

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00782.jpg

i had a filet with chimichurri sauce, mashed potatoes and broccoli. it was good but i thought it had too many seasonings going on.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00784.jpg

ray had a new york strip au poivre (not sure if that's spelled right), mashed potatoes and broccoli. he loved his!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00785.jpg

we were stuffed and headed back to the cabin to relax in the hot tub like two stuck pigs! :laughing:

i loved the lights on the porch at night. so pretty!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00791.jpg

here we are vegging out in front of the TV later that night.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00794.jpg

and the boys vegging out too!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00795.jpg

i set the alarm for 6:50 on saturday so i could get up and watch the sun rise. it was so pretty......but COLD outside!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00799.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00802.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00807.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00811.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00816.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00817.jpg

i did some work that morning and then when ray got up we got ready and headed to tallulah gorge state park. here are some pictures i took at the top of the trail.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00822.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00823.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00825.jpg

see the viewing area across the gorge? we will be over there later!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00827.jpg

look at all the yellow pollen gathered in the water. no wonder i'm stuffy today!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00829.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00830.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00831.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00832.jpg

continued in next post: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31424255&postcount=1631

[punkin413]

so off we went on the trail down the gorge. 1062 steps......:scared1:

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00833.jpg

this bridge is about halfway down and it sways pretty hard while you walk across it. i thought it was cool but anna said when she, chris and luke came that luke kinda freaked out while walking across it!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00837.jpg

on the way down we passed a couple resting on the stairs (obviously on their way up) and they were smoking cigarettes. :rotfl: nothing against smokers but i'm thinking that's probably not gonna help with getting the rest of the way up!

finally we made it to the bottom!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00838.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00839.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00840.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00842.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00843.jpg

i just loved it down there. it was so peaceful and pretty! i wish i lived nearby an area like this!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00844.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00845.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00850.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00852.jpg

unfortunately it was time for us to turn around head back up the 1062 stairs. :scared: i haven't worked out in about a month because of my broken toe and i could FEEL it!!!!! it was a hard trip and we had to rest a few times, but we made it. i saw several people coming down that i felt bad for. this one lady was with her elderly parents and when she saw us youngsters struggling she said, "do you think my 75-year-old mother and 80-year-old father will be okay?" i just looked at her and shook my head. i'm glad she asked - that would've been horrible!

i was fine after the hike but my toe was kinda mad at me. it's doing better but it was a little swollen last night. it's okay today though.

here i am after our hike up......

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00854.jpg

and here's ray.......

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00855.jpg

after that we drove down the road a little ways to view the gorge from the other side.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00856.jpg

ray enjoying the view......

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00858.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00859.jpg

self portrait with the gorge behind us!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00864.jpg

i don't know who wallenda is but thought this was interesting.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00866.jpg

continued in next post: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31424266&postcount=1632

[punkin413]

on the way back to the cabin we stopped here.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00894.jpg

and saw these.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00870.jpg

yep, those would be goats on the roof. very strange but kinda cool. i want a pet goat now.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00874.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00879.jpg

they had little vending machines where you could get goat food for 25 cents and put it in a little pully system and crank it up there to them. it was so funny to watch them waiting on that little pail of food!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00883.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00888.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00889.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00896.jpg

ray feeding the goats....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00899.jpg

they even had t-shirts!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00891.jpg

we headed back to the cabin for the afternoon and had some more relaxing hot tub time and just kinda relaxed. i even took a nap which i never do!

we ended up having dinner at an italian place called mama g's. it was really good! it must have been prom last night in clayton because there were prom kids EVERYWHERE! we saw one guy put salt in his date's water when she went to the bathroom. at least we had entertainment. :laughing:

we ordered cheesesticks for an appetizer (which i forgot to take a picture of) and we each got a yummy ceasar salad and VERY yummy rolls!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00910.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00911.jpg

ray got chicken parmesean (left) and i got baked rigatoni (right). mine was REALLY good and ray said his was good too.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00912.jpg

and then for dessert we shared a cannoli. OH MY GOODNESS.....SO GOOD! the mascarpone cheese was so creamy and it had chocolate chips in it. to die for.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00913.jpg

back to the cabin and more hot tub time for us! it was so nice to just be able to relax as much as we wanted!!!! i took these at dusk.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00922.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00924.jpg

we woke up this morning to a drizzly, dreery day. so we packed up and headed home. i've been feeling kinda yucky ever since (sinus issues). so now i'm doing this :laundy: and trying to get ready for the week! i'm anxious to get back on a normal schedule.

all in all, our anniversary weekend was a PERFECT and relaxing getaway and i'm so glad we did it! we both loved the cabin and agreed we'd be back one day.

i promise more trip report coming soon! and i will try to catch up on all of your TRs this week! :)

[OneTreeHillAddict]

GORGEOUS pictures Dawn. What a beautiful place! And that Italian place....yum! Lookin' good. I'm happy to hear ya had a great weekend.

I really hope things work out with your brother. That girl sounds like a real character. Why was he ever with her in the first place!? Sounds like she's using the baby to get back at him and that's so not cool. If I were him I'd go for full custody. He'll be paying that girl to raise his daughter. May as well raise his little girl himselfl!

[MRNsMommy]

Ok, I really am jealous now! Looks like a perfect, relaxing weekend. Although, that hike seemed like quite a workout! Yikes! I always feel like that after I do the walk up to Clingman's Dome in Gatlinburg! Ugh!

[rentayenta]

1. Goats on the roof? :rotfl2:

2. That swaying rickety bridge? :scared:

3. Your pictures- gorgeous!!!! :thumbsup2

4. That cannoli.............:cloud9:

5. Your puppies chilling out on the bed :cutie:

6. The gorgeous skies and views from the hot tub :cool1:


I am glad you had a relaxing weekend. I read about what your brother and family are going through and I am very sorry. :hug:

[a*lil*bit*goofy]

I thought about this during one of our conversations and forgot to mention it.....VERY good call Goofy :thumbsup2 That is always a good thing to do and it makes you look SO organized :goodvibes....even if you aren't :laughing:

BTW Lil Bit Goofy...glad to see you made it over to the Vandy thread :upsidedow....I was very excited to see you there!!!

I've been thinking a lot about you guys. I hope this will get better....unfortunately Brett probably has a long fight ahead. If he can just be the bigger person in all this he will accomplish everything he's wanting and the next 20 years down the road when it all really matters Margot will KNOW she has a wonderful daddy!! And in the end I'm sure that's what he wants.....:grouphug:

It was the 1 thing that was drilled into me when my ex and I split.
Turns out , that it was a good thing to have. Visits, length of visits, calls, etc etc etc, copies of payments made to me, copies of receipts presented for reimbursement from ex, all of that...it really was very very important in the trial for me. It was no longer a he said she/I said, but here is the back up that I have. In my case, I am the mom, and yes often moms "win" but the real "win" is when the right thing for the child is what comes out on top!

He will have a long fight ahead, but you know, she really WILL know that she has a Dad and family who lover her dearly no matter what.

I sincerely hope that whaver the right best thing for her to have (time with both her parents) is what happens. I wish him nothing but luck.

And thank you Vandyfan for the welcome :cutie::hug:

[VandyFan10]

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00771.jpg

Always so interesting to me to see the tree's cut out for the powerlines. I always seem to notice this in G-burg too

This cabin reminds me so much of the place that Matt and I just stayed in G-burg. Same layout and view :thumbsup2

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00785.jpg

All of that looked REALLY good but this.....YUMMMMMMMMMM :love:

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00807.jpg

Gotta :love: sunrises :goodvibes


http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00822.jpg

I want to go here....how long would it take from nashville??

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00911.jpg


oh my.......:cloud9:

[MeMom]

Bautiful pictures! I bet that is an amazing place in the fall with all of the colors of the trees.

I'm so glad you got to go on this trip.Sherman and Eli look like they were having fun at their slumber party.

All of the food looks great, too. Trent and Drew would love to have those t-shirts. They like anything out of the ordinary. The crazier, the better.

Thanks for sharing all the pictures. I know it was a much needed get-away. Everything will turn out okay with all of the family drama, but it'll just take some time and patience. What one person does can affect a lot of other lives - that goes for good ways and bad ways - and we just have to deal with each situation in a way that we are proud of in the end. We will all be held accountable for our own actions and reactions, so you guys just hang in there and do the right thing at every turn, and you will get your reward in time.

[2xcited2sleep]

I'm so glad you had a nice relaxing time. You so deserve it! And how great you could take your boys along with you. The cabin looks just perfect and relaxing in the hot tub sounds like heaven. I don't think I could have climbed 1000+ stairs back up! :scared: Goats on the roof. Who knew? :rotfl:

[kschafer]

WOW! that sounds like just about the perfect weekend away! Beautiful cabin, gorgeous scenery and yummy food porn!! Good to hear you got a chance to get away and relax for a couple days

[MagicShell]

I am glad that you had a great weekend. I loved the pictures. You even managed to get a little Disney in there with the T-shirts.

I hope things get worked out for your family very soon.

[FauntleroyFAN07]

we were stuffed and headed back to the cabin to relax in the hot tub like two stuck pigs! :laughing:

i loved the lights on the porch at night. so pretty!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/cabin/DSC00791.jpg

looks like ray forgot his swim trunks on the seat when you went hot tubbing.:rolleyes1

i am sure you will say that this was taken after you were in the tub.:lmao:

[k_reile]

soo pretty and that spinach dip looks soo good! Glad you had a nice weekend away! I'm sure it was needed!

[k_reile]

looks like ray forgot his swim trunks on the seat when you went hot tubbing.:rolleyes1

i am sure you will say that this was taken after you were in the tub.:lmao:

I soo did not even notice that! :lmao: Only Dan would find that!:rotfl:

[FauntleroyFAN07]

I soo did not even notice that! :lmao: Only Dan would find that!:rotfl:
it also looks like her bikini on the side of the chair, but hey it was a secluded hot tob so what happens in the mountains stays in the mountains.
:lmao:

[a*lil*bit*goofy]

it also looks like her bikini on the side of the chair, but hey it was a secluded hot tob so what happens in the mountains stays in the mountains.
:lmao:


That it does! LOLOL! :cool1::thumbsup2 Happy Anniversary, you two! :banana:

[Charleston Princess]

Thanks for sharing your wonderful weekend with us! That cabin and those views are spectacular!!!

We did not do the suspension bridge when we went to the gorge -- I can't stand bridges that swing -- I would have been crawling across on my hands and knees! :laughing:

The goats on the roof are priceless -- I love the one shot with the goat hanging his head over the side waiting on the food.

[tinkgurl]

Wow your mini trip looks like it was so much fun! Thanks for sharing Dawn. :)

[troobabiee7]

Gorgeous pictures! I'm glad you and Ray had a good Anniversary weekend :goodvibes2

[KristinAnne]

Everything looks so beautiful! Gotta love that hot tub!! Glad you had such a nice, relaxing anniversary!

[CanadianWDWfan]

Great getaway! What a beautiful & scenic place.

The cabin was perfect, and you had the best view.

Hot Tub!!! How romantic!!!

I don't think I have ever seen Ray without his hat on, he must have been very relaxed.

You are in super shape to do all those steps.

Gorgeous sunset!

The food looked so Yummy!

I laughed so much at the 'Goats on the Roof', what a kooky place.
I can't believe they are trained to go get the food when it comes up.
They even have a fancy tee option with rinestones. :rotfl:

Glad you enjoyed yourself, you deserved it! :thumbsup2

[MaceysMom]

Great sunrises, hot tub, goats on a roof. What else could you possibly ask for?:lmao:

Looks like you had a great time. The cabin was so cute. Glad you had some time to relax.

[castmemberb4]

Great mini report Dawn, what a nice weekend for you !
I used to go to Tallulah Gorge when I was little haven't been up there in a while, and I'm so old I remember when the Great Wallenda walked across the gorge on a tight rope !
Lynn

[winkers]

I'm so excited for you to be an aunt! Now that my kids are a little older it's so fun to spoil my little sisters baby.:cutie:

[Happy Elf]

What a wonderful getaway! The pictures are beautiful! And a hot tub too! Heaven! I wouldn't want to leave!

[hlrababy]

I love, love, love the mini update!! It looks beautiful up there!! I think I might need to go visit!!
Hollie would love seeing the goats on a roof! She had a fit up in Santa's land when the goats were walking up over you as you went under them!

[punkin413]

GORGEOUS pictures Dawn. What a beautiful place! And that Italian place....yum! Lookin' good. I'm happy to hear ya had a great weekend.

I really hope things work out with your brother. That girl sounds like a real character. Why was he ever with her in the first place!? Sounds like she's using the baby to get back at him and that's so not cool. If I were him I'd go for full custody. He'll be paying that girl to raise his daughter. May as well raise his little girl himselfl!

thanks! um.....because he thinking like most guys think when they're 21 years old!!!!!! actually they've dated ever since high school but they got together again last april when he was 21. right now he's not in a position to completely have a kid on his own but believe me - if he sees that it needs to happen he'd do it in a heartbeat!

Ok, I really am jealous now! Looks like a perfect, relaxing weekend. Although, that hike seemed like quite a workout! Yikes! I always feel like that after I do the walk up to Clingman's Dome in Gatlinburg! Ugh!

it was tough but so pretty at the bottom. we just took breaks and we were fine coming back up!

1. Goats on the roof? :rotfl2:

2. That swaying rickety bridge? :scared:

3. Your pictures- gorgeous!!!! :thumbsup2

4. That cannoli.............:cloud9:

5. Your puppies chilling out on the bed :cutie:

6. The gorgeous skies and views from the hot tub :cool1:


I am glad you had a relaxing weekend. I read about what your brother and family are going through and I am very sorry. :hug:

goats on the roof.....remember, we're in georgia. that cannoli was sooooooo good! thanks for the hug. i need it! family stress is the worst.

It was the 1 thing that was drilled into me when my ex and I split.
Turns out , that it was a good thing to have. Visits, length of visits, calls, etc etc etc, copies of payments made to me, copies of receipts presented for reimbursement from ex, all of that...it really was very very important in the trial for me. It was no longer a he said she/I said, but here is the back up that I have. In my case, I am the mom, and yes often moms "win" but the real "win" is when the right thing for the child is what comes out on top!

He will have a long fight ahead, but you know, she really WILL know that she has a Dad and family who lover her dearly no matter what.

I sincerely hope that whaver the right best thing for her to have (time with both her parents) is what happens. I wish him nothing but luck.

And thank you Vandyfan for the welcome :cutie::hug:

thanks again for the pointers. i'm just glad he's doing this while she's so young she won't know anything about it.



Always so interesting to me to see the tree's cut out for the powerlines. I always seem to notice this in G-burg too

This cabin reminds me so much of the place that Matt and I just stayed in G-burg. Same layout and view :thumbsup2

All of that looked REALLY good but this.....YUMMMMMMMMMM :love:

Gotta :love: sunrises :goodvibes

I want to go here....how long would it take from nashville??

oh my.......:cloud9:

not sure on how long it would take from nashville. i looked on googlemaps and it said about 4.5 hours. you have to go through chattanooga, then back up I-75 a little ways towards cleveland, then through the mountains. i bet it's a pretty drive though!

Bautiful pictures! I bet that is an amazing place in the fall with all of the colors of the trees.

I'm so glad you got to go on this trip.Sherman and Eli look like they were having fun at their slumber party.

All of the food looks great, too. Trent and Drew would love to have those t-shirts. They like anything out of the ordinary. The crazier, the better.

Thanks for sharing all the pictures. I know it was a much needed get-away. Everything will turn out okay with all of the family drama, but it'll just take some time and patience. What one person does can affect a lot of other lives - that goes for good ways and bad ways - and we just have to deal with each situation in a way that we are proud of in the end. We will all be held accountable for our own actions and reactions, so you guys just hang in there and do the right thing at every turn, and you will get your reward in time.

yeah, i think we're gonna try to go back in the fall. sherman and eli always have fun as long as they have a comfy bed to sleep on! by the way, the goat place has a website if you'd like it - i'm sure they sell the t-shirts online.

thanks for the good thoughts about my family drama. i'm so proud of brett. he has definitely been the bigger person in the situation. we all have. the things she's doing and saying right now will really hurt here in the long run. i had my doubts about brett because when he found out she didn't call us when margot was born, he LOST IT. but he was able to compose himself after getting over the shock and ever since then he's been so mature and calm about the situation when i know deep down he wants to scream and pull his hair out.

by the way, he's looking for a second job if you know of anything in the downtown nashville area!

I'm so glad you had a nice relaxing time. You so deserve it! And how great you could take your boys along with you. The cabin looks just perfect and relaxing in the hot tub sounds like heaven. I don't think I could have climbed 1000+ stairs back up! :scared: Goats on the roof. Who knew? :rotfl:

thanks! the hot tub actually came in very handy after that hike!

WOW! that sounds like just about the perfect weekend away! Beautiful cabin, gorgeous scenery and yummy food porn!! Good to hear you got a chance to get away and relax for a couple days

it was so nice.

I am glad that you had a great weekend. I loved the pictures. You even managed to get a little Disney in there with the T-shirts.

I hope things get worked out for your family very soon.

thanks! we had such a great, relaxing time.

soo pretty and that spinach dip looks soo good! Glad you had a nice weekend away! I'm sure it was needed!

it was so good! thanks. it definitely was needed.

looks like ray forgot his swim trunks on the seat when you went hot tubbing.:rolleyes1

i am sure you will say that this was taken after you were in the tub.:lmao:

I soo did not even notice that! :lmao: Only Dan would find that!:rotfl:

it also looks like her bikini on the side of the chair, but hey it was a secluded hot tob so what happens in the mountains stays in the mountains.
:lmao:

That it does! LOLOL! :cool1::thumbsup2 Happy Anniversary, you two! :banana:

you guys are so dirty minded!!!!!!!!!! :eek: i have no comment. i don't hot tub and tell. and besides....we're married!!!!

and dan, that actually WAS taken after we got out of the hot tub.....believe it or not!

[punkin413]

Thanks for sharing your wonderful weekend with us! That cabin and those views are spectacular!!!

We did not do the suspension bridge when we went to the gorge -- I can't stand bridges that swing -- I would have been crawling across on my hands and knees! :laughing:

The goats on the roof are priceless -- I love the one shot with the goat hanging his head over the side waiting on the food.

you're welcome! how did you guys get across if you didn't use the bridge? did you just stop there? i think there are several trails around there - probably some i didn't see. those goats were hilarious!

Wow your mini trip looks like it was so much fun! Thanks for sharing Dawn. :)

it was! you're welcome.

Gorgeous pictures! I'm glad you and Ray had a good Anniversary weekend :goodvibes2

thanks! :goodvibes

Everything looks so beautiful! Gotta love that hot tub!! Glad you had such a nice, relaxing anniversary!

the hot tub was so nice!!!! thanks.

Great getaway! What a beautiful & scenic place.

The cabin was perfect, and you had the best view.

Hot Tub!!! How romantic!!!

I don't think I have ever seen Ray without his hat on, he must have been very relaxed.

You are in super shape to do all those steps.

Gorgeous sunset!

The food looked so Yummy!

I laughed so much at the 'Goats on the Roof', what a kooky place.
I can't believe they are trained to go get the food when it comes up.
They even have a fancy tee option with rinestones. :rotfl:

Glad you enjoyed yourself, you deserved it! :thumbsup2

we really had a nice time. the hot but was so nice and the view was just gorgeous. the goats were just too funny!

Great sunrises, hot tub, goats on a roof. What else could you possibly ask for?:lmao:

Looks like you had a great time. The cabin was so cute. Glad you had some time to relax.

seriously! :laughing: thanks - it was so nice to get away!

Great mini report Dawn, what a nice weekend for you !
I used to go to Tallulah Gorge when I was little haven't been up there in a while, and I'm so old I remember when the Great Wallenda walked across the gorge on a tight rope !
Lynn

thanks! you guys should take a trip up there - it's a nice peaceful area. i bet you're not much older (or maybe even younger) than me. i'm 32 so i bet i was around when that happened. but i grew up in tennessee so i just didn't hear about it!

I'm so excited for you to be an aunt! Now that my kids are a little older it's so fun to spoil my little sisters baby.:cutie:

thanks! i really am excited and i look at her little face in my pictures every day and just want to hug her! i hope i get to see her soon. i wish her mother would stop being so childish and do what's best for her. keep your fingers crossed for my brother and our family. she's just delaying the inevitable but it would be nice if he could get to see her without having to go to court every time!

What a wonderful getaway! The pictures are beautiful! And a hot tub too! Heaven! I wouldn't want to leave!

it was so nice! i didn't want to leave AT ALL!

I love, love, love the mini update!! It looks beautiful up there!! I think I might need to go visit!!
Hollie would love seeing the goats on a roof! She had a fit up in Santa's land when the goats were walking up over you as you went under them!

you guys would love it. the town is really small so there's not a whole lot to do but it was perfect for just relaxing! and not far from a lot of stuff - tallulah gorge, dillard and lake burton are all nearby. that cabin was really nice and CHEAP - $225 for the weekend. i will PM you the website link.

[punkin413]

i have a question for you guys who fly to disney. i haven't flown in a LONG time.....like since 1996 when i flew into atlanta during the olympics from nashville. i HATE flying so i try to avoid it at all costs. everywhere we've went the last 13 years has been driveable. less than 10 hours = driveable to me!

anyway, our NYC trip is coming up and because i haven't flown in so long i don't know the new "rules" that have been enforced since 9/11. is there somewhere i can find a list of these? like for example i know my liquids can't be over a certain size? that sort of thing.

thanks in advance for any help!

[VandyFan10]

Wow this website actually has some of the best info I've seen in a long time. Very detailed and tell's you exactly what you need to know Items Permitted and Prohibited (http://www.airtran.com/policies/permitted_prohibited.aspx)

One thing to remember in your carry on you must fit all those little 3oz bottles in one quart size ziplock bag....but you can carry whatever you want in your Checked bags

I think the checked bags can't weigh over 50lbs...but they might have changed that again too.

Notice: ITEMS NOT PERMITTED – NO EXCEPTIONS
Aerosols –
Not intended for use or consumption on the human body as toiletries or food

Sorry can't take your AquaNet :lmao:

[KatInHat]

Try this:

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm

Hope that helps.

[MAGICFOR2]

Dawn! Not quite caught up, but I just wanted to send you a :hug: I've been out of town again - Margot was born the day I left. I'm sorry for your hurt, and these things have a way of working out. I hope Jordan can see having peace with the family for the sake of Margot.:cutie:

[englishrose47]

Hi Auntie Dawn!!

[IluvXU]

Glad you asked about flying restrictions.... I am trying to figure out Luke and his milk and food for our trip! Thanks for the links!

[FauntleroyFAN07]

you guys are so dirty minded!!!!!!!!!! :eek: i have no comment. i don't hot tub and tell. and besides....we're married!!!!

and dan, that actually WAS taken after we got out of the hot tub.....believe it or not!
i was going to say how pretty everything was that you saw, but since everyone was saying that i thought i would switch it up and comment on the suit.:goodvibes i dont have a dirty mind, just a good observer. hope i did not get you mad:guilty:

i knew that it was taken after because why would you get out of the hot tub to take a picture, it is cold when you get out of hot tubs, we have owned one in our family for years.

also i got the release you sent me in the mail, thanks.:thumbsup2



Glad you asked about flying restrictions.... I am trying to figure out Luke and his milk and food for our trip! Thanks for the links!

if you want to know baby food rules, dont rely on the websites, call the airport you are going to fly out of and talk to the TSA agents directly, dont just talk to the airport...when we went in december, everyone said all the food for our little guy would be okay, except the when i got the security check, she looked at all my baby food jars, i had 18 of them, and she almost took them, she said that i should have checked them, i said i did not want hte glass jars to break in my luggage and have baby food all over my clothes, she finally took themto her boss and got clearance for them and let me through but not after a hard time by the lady.

they also let me take in the formula container, because it was in the original container, but i would just call and talk to them and get a nameof the person you talk to so if you get there and have problems you can say who you talked to

[MA pigletfan]

FUN!!!! what a fun time you had in the mountains..that hot tub would have been my favorite part too..i love that you got to bring the "boys" too..they need vacations too after all ;)

[LISAMWDW]

Hey, Dawn!

Lots to catch up since I've been gone on a non-disney vacation. So very sorry to hear what is going on with the new baby girl! What a great sister you are to get him a lawyer so fast! That definitely what he needs, a good lawyer! Maybe his ex is going thru alot of hormones and emotions right now after just giving birth and hopefully, things will calm down.

I can't imagine how angry and hurt you all must be. And to put on a happy face for the first visit! You all are so strong! Give her some time. The best thing your brother can do, in and out of court, is to be the calm one!

I'll be praying for him! Hang in there! :hug:

[aldisneygrl]

Your weekend getaway looked lovely and relaxing! :cloud9:

Sorry there is still drama between Jordan and Brett. Just keep supporting him! You're a great big sister!! :hug:

Oh, and I will be running 13.1 miles through the streets of Nashville on Saturday. Say a little prayer for me. ;) I'm looking forward to it, but have been dealing with a sick daughter all week. She has a virus and has been running a temp. since Sunday. I called and talked with the nurse today, and she seemed to think that she would be fine by the weekend, since her temp. isn't as high as Monday, when we saw the Dr.

[Angelrose]

Hi Dawn. I have been enjoying your report. If you want to take hair spray, just get the kind in the pump bottles. I take along the travel size in my checked luggage and never had a problem. I just throw out whatever is in the travel size and put in my own.

[joy13]

What a beautiful vacation! It must have been so relaxing. :cloud9: See - I didn't think twice about the goats on the roof because there is a restaurant in Door County Wisconsin that has goats on the roof and we have gone there to eat since I was a little girl :rotfl2:

[dawz1026]

Dawn
I have not brought myself to step on a plane since 2002.I gave flown all over the world and yet a sudden fear came over me in 2004, .just the other day I said I would do it again..with a prescription from my Dr of course :cloud9:

[lmillercrew]

I feel like you when it comes to people's TR's and staying caught up. I am SO far behind on so many reports.
First of all, let me say from first hand experience, that I completely understand where your brother is. My DH had a child with a high school girlfriend when he was 18. He saw her the day she was born, the next day he showed up at the hospital and the baby was all the way across the nursery and he wasn't allowed to hold her or see her. Your brother did the right thing by contacting a lawyer right away and getting CS started. Thankfully the laws have changed over the years for men and he will have more rights. (You work in the legal field, you know) Anyway, you all are doing the right things.
Glad you had a nice Anniversary and enjoyed your peace and quiet.

[punkin413]

Wow this website actually has some of the best info I've seen in a long time. Very detailed and tell's you exactly what you need to know Items Permitted and Prohibited (http://www.airtran.com/policies/permitted_prohibited.aspx)

One thing to remember in your carry on you must fit all those little 3oz bottles in one quart size ziplock bag....but you can carry whatever you want in your Checked bags

I think the checked bags can't weigh over 50lbs...but they might have changed that again too.

Notice: ITEMS NOT PERMITTED – NO EXCEPTIONS
Aerosols –
Not intended for use or consumption on the human body as toiletries or food

Sorry can't take your AquaNet :lmao:

cool!!!! thanks so much. i will tell my grandma that she can't take her aquanet next time she flies!!!! :rotfl: she really does use that stuff - in the red can.

Try this:

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm

Hope that helps.

thanks so much! it does!

Dawn! Not quite caught up, but I just wanted to send you a :hug: I've been out of town again - Margot was born the day I left. I'm sorry for your hurt, and these things have a way of working out. I hope Jordan can see having peace with the family for the sake of Margot.:cutie:

thank you. i hope so too.

Hi Auntie Dawn!!

hi, rosie! :)

Glad you asked about flying restrictions.... I am trying to figure out Luke and his milk and food for our trip! Thanks for the links!

oh, cool! glad my question helped.

i was going to say how pretty everything was that you saw, but since everyone was saying that i thought i would switch it up and comment on the suit.:goodvibes i dont have a dirty mind, just a good observer. hope i did not get you mad:guilty:

i knew that it was taken after because why would you get out of the hot tub to take a picture, it is cold when you get out of hot tubs, we have owned one in our family for years.

also i got the release you sent me in the mail, thanks.:thumbsup2


you're welcome! glad you got it.

it takes a WHOLE lot more than that to offend me!!!!! i'm so not mad at all. and you're right - it IS cold when you get out of hot tubs!!!! :laughing:

FUN!!!! what a fun time you had in the mountains..that hot tub would have been my favorite part too..i love that you got to bring the "boys" too..they need vacations too after all ;)

we had a great time and so did the boys!

Hey, Dawn!

Lots to catch up since I've been gone on a non-disney vacation. So very sorry to hear what is going on with the new baby girl! What a great sister you are to get him a lawyer so fast! That definitely what he needs, a good lawyer! Maybe his ex is going thru alot of hormones and emotions right now after just giving birth and hopefully, things will calm down.

I can't imagine how angry and hurt you all must be. And to put on a happy face for the first visit! You all are so strong! Give her some time. The best thing your brother can do, in and out of court, is to be the calm one!

I'll be praying for him! Hang in there! :hug:

thanks for your kind words. i agree with all that you said. it's very frustrating!

Your weekend getaway looked lovely and relaxing! :cloud9:

Sorry there is still drama between Jordan and Brett. Just keep supporting him! You're a great big sister!! :hug:

Oh, and I will be running 13.1 miles through the streets of Nashville on Saturday. Say a little prayer for me. ;) I'm looking forward to it, but have been dealing with a sick daughter all week. She has a virus and has been running a temp. since Sunday. I called and talked with the nurse today, and she seemed to think that she would be fine by the weekend, since her temp. isn't as high as Monday, when we saw the Dr.

thanks! i appreciate it. GOOD LUCK ON YOUR RUN!!!!!! hope you guys have good weather. say hi to my hometown when you're running through it! i love nashville.

Hi Dawn. I have been enjoying your report. If you want to take hair spray, just get the kind in the pump bottles. I take along the travel size in my checked luggage and never had a problem. I just throw out whatever is in the travel size and put in my own.

thanks! and thanks about the advice on the hair spray.

What a beautiful vacation! It must have been so relaxing. :cloud9: See - I didn't think twice about the goats on the roof because there is a restaurant in Door County Wisconsin that has goats on the roof and we have gone there to eat since I was a little girl :rotfl2:

so funny about the restaurant with the goats! :laughing:

Dawn
I have not brought myself to step on a plane since 2002.I gave flown all over the world and yet a sudden fear came over me in 2004, .just the other day I said I would do it again..with a prescription from my Dr of course :cloud9:

i hate flying too and i've already got a prescription for xanax during the flight! :rotfl:

[punkin413]

I feel like you when it comes to people's TR's and staying caught up. I am SO far behind on so many reports.
First of all, let me say from first hand experience, that I completely understand where your brother is. My DH had a child with a high school girlfriend when he was 18. He saw her the day she was born, the next day he showed up at the hospital and the baby was all the way across the nursery and he wasn't allowed to hold her or see her. Your brother did the right thing by contacting a lawyer right away and getting CS started. Thankfully the laws have changed over the years for men and he will have more rights. (You work in the legal field, you know) Anyway, you all are doing the right things.
Glad you had a nice Anniversary and enjoyed your peace and quiet.


i hear ya! i'm so behind but slowly - very slowly - i'm getting caught up!

thanks for your words of support. it's just very frustrating. i keep stressing to brett to be patient and this will all work out the right way through the courts. there is a glimmer of hope though - i will elaborate in a minute. getting ready to do an update and i'm gonna say more there!

[punkin413]

i needed a break from work so it's update time!

i can't even remember everything that's happened with brett since the last time i updated. pretty much more of the same stuff. but we do have what could be good news. jordan called brett today and wants to meet him tomorrow at noon at a coffee shop in a bookstore at the mall so he can see margot for about half an hour. i'm suspicious of her motives just because of how all this has played out but i'm hoping this is a good sign. keep your fingers crossed for him! hopefully he'll be sending me some pictures soon! she's a week and 2 days old now and i know how fast babies can change.

also, keep my little furbaby in your thoughts! when i got home today sherman was coming down the stairs and the next time i looked he was laying in the floor. it was like his back legs wouldn't work. i ended up taking him to the vet and she says he's either got a bruised spinal cord or a slipped disc. the slipped disc could get better or worse. he was walking by the time we got to the vet though - just not putting any weight on one side and his right back foot won't straighten out. it's weird. she put him on some steroids and he's on "bedrest" for a few days. she says if he's not walking better by monday to bring him back in for x-rays.

on with the TR!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

last i left you we were bypassing the crazy wait at HM and anna, chris and luke had just taken in a story with belle.

once again, i will start with anna and then come back to us.

after belle's show they headed back towards the hub to take a closer look at the christmas decorations they didn't get to see too much of that morning since we were on a mission to meet some fairies. a couple of really pretty pictures she took a long the way.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/01-16.jpg

i love this one.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/02-15.jpg

check out this family's hair. apparently they all felt festive that day!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/03-16.jpg

i love the wreaths on main street!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/04-16.jpg

they looked down to see someone had decided it was nap time......

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/05-16.jpg

poor little dude!

more MK christmas decorations....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/06-16.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/07-16.jpg

we were meeting back up in tomorrowland so they started heading back up main street and stopped for some photopass pics.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/10-16.jpg

still snoozing.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/08-16.jpg

check out the woman in this picture. it looks like she's gonna run over anna!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/09-16.jpg

meanwhile with ray and dawn........

one attraction i always have to do at MK is mickey's philharmagic. i just love it! so we headed to fantasyland to check it out. the wait was 20 minutes.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/11-16.jpg

i don't think i've EVER had to actually wait in line for this. we usually just walk in and wait for the theater doors to open.

we always take this pic but i love this one.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/12-16.jpg

we waited until the people who don't follow directions realized that they can't stop and sit down in the middle of the theater and then found a seat. i sat down with excitement to enjoy my favorite 4-D show at disney world and then i look up to see this...........

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/13-16.jpg

yep, that was my view. i'm 5'3". just my luck.

ray offered to trade seats with me but i just shook my head and laughed.

continued in next post: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31495923&postcount=1676

[punkin413]

while we had been in line anna had called and asked if we wanted to meet at space mountain to use our fastpasses. so we headed that way. when i passed pooh's ride i couldn't believe the wait was 40 minutes!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/14-16.jpg

when we got to space mountain luke was still asleep so we decided that anna and i would ride together and then ray and chris and that way if luke woke up one of his parents would be there. first of it was myself and anna's turn.

i wasn't feeling too hot but i cannot go to magic kingdom and not ride space mountain. it holds a special place in my heart because it was my first "big" roller coaster. it works out that we're not going this year because i do feel like i would just feel incomplete with no space mountain to ride.

anna got picture happy during this ride and these are some of my favorite pictures of the trip. first one of myself while we were loading - i was sitting behind her.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/15-15.jpg

as we were taking off......look like you're having fun!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/16-16.jpg

going down the blue lighted tunnel.......look like you're still having LOTS of fun!!!!!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/17-15.jpg

okay.....maybe not so psycho, but still having fun!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/18-16.jpg

and this one is just HILARIOUS!!!!!! i have no idea when she took this but apparently it was during the actual ride because everything's dark. this picture of anna is so funny - you can almost see her stomach down her throat if you look really hard!!!!!! :lmao:

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/19-16.jpg

when we were on the escalator thing getting off the ride we were looking at these and we were laughing SO HARD! i'm sure some people thought we were crazy.

when we got back outside with the boys luke was still snoozing.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/20-15.jpg

ray and chris had struck up a conversation with a woman who was waiting for her husband and daughter to ride and so we sat down and started talking to her too while the boys went to ride. she was really nice! she said that they had been to MVMCP the night before (friday) and that it had been AWESOME - not crowded at all! this made me feel better because the woman that morning had told me that her thursday night experience was just horrific. i was hoping thursday night was a discounted night and that was the reason for the crowds.

luke woke up at some point in there and after the boys got off space mountain we decided to take a relaxing ride on the TTA......

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/21-14.jpg

still waking up.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/22-14.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/23-14.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/24-14.jpg

i took this of ray as we went through the dark part and i think he was really asleep!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/25-14.jpg

next we decided to head to buzz lightyear. ray announced that the low scorer would have to buy everyone a casey's hot dog. i couldn't believe he wanted another one!!!!!

when we got to buzz the wait was crazy so we got fastpasses. they all really wanted a hot dog so we did actually end up going back to casey's. needless to say, ray was happy. :rolleyes:

we barely made it across the street before the 3:00 parade started but when we got to casey's it was nice because a lot of people were watching the parade and the restaurant was fairly empty.

at this point i was starting to feel really icky. my stomach just wouldn't settle and i was nauseas. i was not in the least interested in a hot dog! so i told ray i'd just share some fries with him and to get me some milk to try to settle my stomach.

i love this picture of luke waiting on his food, watching cartoons.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/26-13.jpg

time to eat!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/27-10.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/28-12.jpg

luke must have been STARVING because he never eats like this. anna usually fights with him to eat his food. it was so funny!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/29-11.jpg

he scarved that thing down! :laughing:

up next........serious shooting on buzz and luke's first encounter with the 999 happy haunts!!!!

[shannon47142]

fun updates:cool1:
hope things work out or your brother tomorrow--sending you guys happy thoughts:hug:

[IluvXU]

Glad for an update on your brother... here is hoping the visit goes well.

Loving the update as usual.... sorry that you were not feeling that great though.. the space mountain pics are super fun!

[joy13]

That must be one good hotdog - LOL! I think Luke has half that thing in his mouth! I love the space mountain pictures!

[MAGICFOR2]

Dawn, I'm glad to hear Brett is going to get to see Margot!

Fun update!

Loved Anna's castle pic - the lighting is beautiful!
Anna's Christmas pics - funny ladies in the pics - bearing down on them fore sure! Funny how people don't look where they're going!
Luke was really zonked out!

Your SM pics are really funny! Casey's looks like fun - we haven't tried it yet!

[MeMom]

I'm hoping for good things for Brett today. I think I can picture exactly where they'll be, so I'll be thinking of him. Is someone going with him? I hope he'll be able to get a picture made with her.

Sorry to hear about Sherman. Jill went home to find Ben unable to walk one day, too. She was so upset that her little baby was suffering; she just cried and cried. He had to have surgery (about $2000), but he's fine now. Give Sherman a loving hug from your Dis friends - poor little guy.

Luke does look cute sitting on the bench waiting, and so does the little guy falling asleep right behind him. :) Little ones go hard in Disney World, and when things slow down for a minute, they are out!

I love the Main Street Mickey wreaths, too. We're looking forward to seeing them again right after Christmas. Not looking forward to the crowds, but we'll manage.

Jill is a Casey's girl. A Casey's hot dog while waiting for Spectro is pretty much routine for us. I rarely have a hot dog out here in the real world, but sitting on the sidewalk on Main Street, they suddenly take on a whole new excitement!

[AussieAngel]

Ohhhhhhhhhhh, now I really want an American hot dog!!!! :headache:

Bummer!!!! Daaawn!!

We've never been to Casey's. Now I really, really want to go there. That's a bit sad, isn't it!? :lmao:

And yay, you went on our favourite ride!! TTA! I really don't know why it's our favourite... it's just relaxing and lazy and fun!! Even though Ray did fall asleep on it. Heheheee.

Oooh, and I hope Sherman gets better soon! Poor thing!! Annie wants you to know that she hopes Sherman will be okay too. Our pets have to band together, right?!

[2xcited2sleep]

Great update! Those Space Mountain pics are hilarious!! And holy cow that woman in the photopass pic really was on a mission to collide with Anna! What is wrong with people? :confused3

Glad your brother has potentially good news in his situation. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

And sending good doggie thoughts for Sherman. Hope he's feeling better! :goodvibes

[KristinAnne]

I love your updates! They are so fun! I hope everything works out for Brett today.

[BrooklynnsMommy]

I hope that all goes well for Brett today. I know he is very excited to see that little girl and I know you can't wait to see her pictures.

I'm so sorry Sherman is hurting. Ben had the same thing happen to him when I was about 7 months pregnant with Brooklynn. It just happened all the sudden. he had been running around and then all the sudden he was dragging his rear end on the ground and whimpering. The vet took x-rays and said he had two slipped disk and we would have to go see a specialist to see if it could be fixed or if he just needed to be put to sleep. (I really hadn't wanted Ben in the first place but when I heard we might have to put him to sleep I just cried and cried.) We ended up having to take him to the specialist about an hour and a half away and he said the surgery would cost $3000 and there was no guarantee it would fix it but he had had great success. (He has done like 5000 of these procedures successfully) So $3000 was paid and we left him there on Friday for surgery that morning. We picked him up on Monday. He had 27 staples all the way down his spine and couldn't walk. We had to keep him in a playpen so that he wouldn't try to walk around. He had to have medicine every 3 hours and we had to carry him outside, set him down, and help him go to the bathroom for two weeks. Then he started being able to walk on his own a little bit. he still couldn't jump though. After 6 weeks he was back to normal. He has been fine ever since with no complications. Hope it is just a bruised spinal cord though and that the steroids work.

[MagicShell]

I am glad that Brett will be able to see Margot. I hope all goes well. I hope things go well with your doggie also.

It looks like you had a great time on Space Mountain. Laughing at Disney World is the best.

[Camster0307]

First of all, keeping my fingers crossed for your brother and his visit with his baby. It does sound suspicious but hopefully it will go well!

Great update! How the heck is Anna taking those pix of you guys on Space Mountain? Is she not holding on at all? I'm such a baby - I just can't bring myself to let go when I'm on those types of rides!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/21-14.jpg

Love that Ray has the Tink clip on his backpack. So cute!

Enjoyed the food porn from Casey's. Now my mouth is watering for some of those cheese fries! And I hope you had luck with MVMCP crowds. I have learned from experience that it is certainly not worth it to go on a discount night - it is SOOOO crowded and you just don't get to enjoy everything. It is so much better to go on a full price night.

[TigerTown]

Hi Dawn,

New reader here. I just finished catching up on your trip report. It looks like you had a great time. Looking forward to future updates.

Kyle

[tinkgurl]

Ahhh...you know I love the MK dearly. :cloud9:

[LISAMWDW]

Sorry to hear about Sherman! I hope he feels better!

Great updates though! That picture of the woman trying to run down Anna in that photo pass picture is hilarous! OMG! HAHA!

[FauntleroyFAN07]

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/17-15.jpg

okay.....maybe not so psycho, but still having fun!



http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/december%20TR/26-13.jpg



that picture of you too it looks like you can see your skull very cool and kinda creepy at the same time.

and i like the kid behind him falling asleep while eating on the bench.

[KatGarcia]

Here's some positive thoughts :goodvibes:goodvibes and pixiedust:pixiedust: for Sherman! Poor guy!

I always have people sitting in front of me that I can't see past! I'm 5 feet tall. I feel your pain!

[OneTreeHillAddict]

Aww. Poor Sherman. I hope he's okay. Spoil that little fella and let's get him fixed up.

And this girl....I just feel like she's up to no good! I feel for Brett. At the least he'll get to see his baby. Seriously though....if she's the kind of person she sounds like I'd make sure she's my baby. Girls like that, you can't trust them. If she'd hurt your brother this way who knows what else she's done? I just don't have a good feeling about her. She sounds evil. Sorry.

Now onto the pics update....I love your pic from the MK of the water. It's so cool! I wish that boat ride was still there. I would pay money to ride it! That's what I wish Disney would do for one of their celebrations. Bring back a couple of things from the past. Like this, and the AK cruise! I never did either (that I know of...) Your castle picture is awesome too. Excellent colors! I'd totally frame that one if I were you! Dear God could you have set behind a larger man!? Wow! He's 4 feet wide and doesn't even have a neck! Gosh. I would have asked to sit on the floor. LOL Okay, must say the Space Mountain pic is FREAKY looking. Great update girly!

[lmillercrew]

First of all, thinking of poor little Sherman!! Hope that he makes it through o.k. without having to have anything major done.
Luke must've been super tired to have slept that long through all of the MK noise. It's amazing to me what kids can sleep through. (I think I've said that to you before :laughing:)
Love the pics of you and Anna on Space Mountain. You can tell that you were moving and having fun!!

[micandminforever]

My thoughts are with you and Sherman, Our cat fell out of a tree a couple of years a go and broke her pevis in two place. She now has a plate on one side and a screw in the other side, but was fine after six weeks.

Prayers are with your family and the new blessing in your lives.

[MA pigletfan]

Hope Sherman is feeling better!! Poor little guy!

[timandlesley]

GREAT update as always Dawn :thumbsup2 Loved the Space Mtn. pics, too funny:rotfl: I have NO idea how she could get those without dropping the camera though, impressive ; )
Luke is SUCH a cutie, I just love the pics of him, all the sleeping ones and that one sitting on the bench in Casey's waiting for the hot dogs, too cute. Loved the photopass pic where that lady almost ran Anna over, that's hysterical!
So sorry to hear about Sherman, I SO hope he starts walking for you soon, keep us posted. Also hope things work out for your brother, how sad. Hope they have a good visit.
Have a great weekend.
Lesley

[punkin413]

just wanted to let you guys know that sherman is doing much better. he is pretty much walking normal now except for a small limp on the right side. it takes him awhile to get up but he's definitely getting better. and his back right foot is now going flat instead of curling under. i think the steroids are doing their job - they're definitely making him thirsty! thanks for all your well wishes!

also, brett got to see margot today for about 40 minutes. he was absolutely thrilled when i talked to him - he said she's changed so much in a week. she was opening her eyes and looking around a lot, which she didn't do at the hospital. she has blue eyes and i think they'll stay that way since both brett and jordan have blue eyes. he also got to change a poo poo diaper and he was really excited about that. :goodvibes he and jordan didn't say much to each other but that doesn't surprise me. he didn't take any pictures - didn't even think about it. but i'm so glad he got some time with her, even if it was just 40 minutes. it's a start.

now i think we need to take a moment of silence. you see, i'm rather sad tonight because realized today that a year ago tomorrow is the saturday that ray and i were leaving for our disney trip. if you haven't read that TR and are interested, the link is below in green. such a great trip! so now i know this entire week i will be saying, "this time last year i was doing this," and shed a little internal tear because i know we won't be back this year. :charac2: so i will have to live vicariously through all of you guys for the next 20 months!

i will be back probably tomorrow to do some responses. oh, ray and i are gonna go watch luke play t-ball tomorrow so i will probably have some pictures from that to share! :thumbsup2

[MRNsMommy]

Great news about Sherman and your brother getting to see the baby! :rotfl: at him changing the poopy diaper! Too funny that he was excited about it! Just wait'll he gets a "blow out" one, though!

Love the updates...SM pics are awesome!:lmao:

[MeMom]

It's good to hear positive news on both counts. I'm glad Jordan did show up and that all went okay. I should have gone along to take pictures for him! ;)

It's very good to hear that sweet Sherman is doing better, too. We're sending him lots of lovin' from up here!

Wish Luke lots of luck today in his game. It's fun to watch the little guys learning the social and athletic skills of playing a team sport.

Trent is taking me to see Earth this afternoon, so that's my exciting thing for today.
Cleaning out the back room and throwing out a bunch of stuff I've had stored there for forever - that's the rest of my day.

[IluvXU]

Glad to hear good news on both the Margot front and Sherman! Have a fantastic weekend....

[k_reile]

oh I know about the year ago I was in disney thing...but the year anniversary of our disney trip we were in the hospital having Caleb...so I guess it gave us something else to enjoy at that time to take the disney trips place!

[CanadianWDWfan]

I'm so relieved to hear that Sherman is doing better. He's a tough little guy. You must have been so worried. :hug:

Things are looking brighter for your brother! He must have enjoyed every minute with Margot. Let's hope he get's to see her more frequently now...:wizard:
No pics, he needs a do over! ;)

Amazing!!! Is all I can say about the castle pic. So breathtaking! :thumbsup2

You and Anna have the best times together, fun pics.

I just realized we eat at Casey's everytime while watching the Spectro parade too. It seems to be the thing to do. :laughing: I agree with Ray, so Yummy!

Aww! I feel your sadness about not going to WDW. That was me last year. Fortuneately, I found the DIS and you. Reading everyone's TR's made it less terrible.

You will be okay, we'll see you through. :goodvibes

[DisneyJo]

Glad that Sherman is OK and I'm so pleased your brother got to spend some time with Margot!

Those Space photos are fantastic so creepy yet cool all at the same time :thumbsup2

[dawz1026]

I was curious to know if Anna likes Lukes hair now that it is shorter or will she have it grow longer again? I am growing my Michaels long again...I miss it so...:)

[dawz1026]

just wanted to let you guys know that sherman is doing much better. he is pretty much walking normal now except for a small limp on the right side. it takes him awhile to get up but he's definitely getting better. and his back right foot is now going flat instead of curling under. i think the steroids are doing their job - they're definitely making him thirsty! thanks for all your well wishes!

also, brett got to see margot today for about 40 minutes. he was absolutely thrilled when i talked to him - he said she's changed so much in a week. she was opening her eyes and looking around a lot, which she didn't do at the hospital. she has blue eyes and i think they'll stay that way since both brett and jordan have blue eyes. he also got to change a poo poo diaper and he was really excited about that. :goodvibes he and jordan didn't say much to each other but that doesn't surprise me. he didn't take any pictures - didn't even think about it. but i'm so glad he got some time with her, even if it was just 40 minutes. it's a start.

now i think we need to take a moment of silence. you see, i'm rather sad tonight because realized today that a year ago tomorrow is the saturday that ray and i were leaving for our disney trip. if you haven't read that TR and are interested, the link is below in green. such a great trip! so now i know this entire week i will be saying, "this time last year i was doing this," and shed a little internal tear because i know we won't be back this year. :charac2: so i will have to live vicariously through all of you guys for the next 20 months!

i will be back probably tomorrow to do some responses. oh, ray and i are gonna go watch luke play t-ball tomorrow so i will probably have some pictures from that to share! :thumbsup2

In memory of last years trip...OHMMMMMM:grouphug:

[punkin413]

fun updates:cool1:
hope things work out or your brother tomorrow--sending you guys happy thoughts:hug:

thanks!

Glad for an update on your brother... here is hoping the visit goes well.

Loving the update as usual.... sorry that you were not feeling that great though.. the space mountain pics are super fun!

thanks! yeah, i was feeling icky. that's the worst at disney world!

That must be one good hotdog - LOL! I think Luke has half that thing in his mouth! I love the space mountain pictures!

seriously! he inhaled that thing. thanks!

Dawn, I'm glad to hear Brett is going to get to see Margot!

Fun update!

Loved Anna's castle pic - the lighting is beautiful!
Anna's Christmas pics - funny ladies in the pics - bearing down on them fore sure! Funny how people don't look where they're going!
Luke was really zonked out!

Your SM pics are really funny! Casey's looks like fun - we haven't tried it yet!

thanks! i love that castle pic, too. oh, you must try casey's next time. i'm not much of a hot dog girl but i will eat one there. they're really good!

I'm hoping for good things for Brett today. I think I can picture exactly where they'll be, so I'll be thinking of him. Is someone going with him? I hope he'll be able to get a picture made with her.

Sorry to hear about Sherman. Jill went home to find Ben unable to walk one day, too. She was so upset that her little baby was suffering; she just cried and cried. He had to have surgery (about $2000), but he's fine now. Give Sherman a loving hug from your Dis friends - poor little guy.

Luke does look cute sitting on the bench waiting, and so does the little guy falling asleep right behind him. :) Little ones go hard in Disney World, and when things slow down for a minute, they are out!

I love the Main Street Mickey wreaths, too. We're looking forward to seeing them again right after Christmas. Not looking forward to the crowds, but we'll manage.

Jill is a Casey's girl. A Casey's hot dog while waiting for Spectro is pretty much routine for us. I rarely have a hot dog out here in the real world, but sitting on the sidewalk on Main Street, they suddenly take on a whole new excitement!

sorry i didn't respond to this before his visit. no, no one went with him. one of jordan's "instructions" was that it be just him. that's kinda why i was suspicous but maybe she just felt more comfortable that way.

poor ben! i would've cried too.

i saw that little boy snoozing behind luke. so cute! i could so go for a casey's hot dog and some spectro magic tonight! tomorrow night a year ago we were watching spectro! :rolleyes:

Ohhhhhhhhhhh, now I really want an American hot dog!!!! :headache:

Bummer!!!! Daaawn!!

We've never been to Casey's. Now I really, really want to go there. That's a bit sad, isn't it!? :lmao:

And yay, you went on our favourite ride!! TTA! I really don't know why it's our favourite... it's just relaxing and lazy and fun!! Even though Ray did fall asleep on it. Heheheee.

Oooh, and I hope Sherman gets better soon! Poor thing!! Annie wants you to know that she hopes Sherman will be okay too. Our pets have to band together, right?!

another thing you can add to your "next time" list! we love the TTA too. so relaxing and such a good break from everything. tell annie thanks for the sweet thoughts! :goodvibes

Great update! Those Space Mountain pics are hilarious!! And holy cow that woman in the photopass pic really was on a mission to collide with Anna! What is wrong with people? :confused3

Glad your brother has potentially good news in his situation. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

And sending good doggie thoughts for Sherman. Hope he's feeling better! :goodvibes

thanks! i have come to realize that 90 percent of the people on this earth are just moronic. i know that sounds bad but i really do think it's true. thanks for keeping your fingers crossed for brett and good thoughts for sherman!

I love your updates! They are so fun! I hope everything works out for Brett today.

thanks so much!

I hope that all goes well for Brett today. I know he is very excited to see that little girl and I know you can't wait to see her pictures.

I'm so sorry Sherman is hurting. Ben had the same thing happen to him when I was about 7 months pregnant with Brooklynn. It just happened all the sudden. he had been running around and then all the sudden he was dragging his rear end on the ground and whimpering. The vet took x-rays and said he had two slipped disk and we would have to go see a specialist to see if it could be fixed or if he just needed to be put to sleep. (I really hadn't wanted Ben in the first place but when I heard we might have to put him to sleep I just cried and cried.) We ended up having to take him to the specialist about an hour and a half away and he said the surgery would cost $3000 and there was no guarantee it would fix it but he had had great success. (He has done like 5000 of these procedures successfully) So $3000 was paid and we left him there on Friday for surgery that morning. We picked him up on Monday. He had 27 staples all the way down his spine and couldn't walk. We had to keep him in a playpen so that he wouldn't try to walk around. He had to have medicine every 3 hours and we had to carry him outside, set him down, and help him go to the bathroom for two weeks. Then he started being able to walk on his own a little bit. he still couldn't jump though. After 6 weeks he was back to normal. He has been fine ever since with no complications. Hope it is just a bruised spinal cord though and that the steroids work.

i'm dying to see new pictures of margot but i know i must be patient.

oh, my goodness......poor little ben! what a horrible thing to go through. my pets are like my children so i feel your pain. actually ray's mom's beagle, lucy, went through something similar about 10 years ago. she swallowed a button off the couch and had to have surgery to cut it out. after she woke up from surgery her back legs wouldn't work and they took X-rays and she had a slipped disc. we had to put diapers on her and keep her in a play pen. they put her on a heavy dose of steroids and she gained a lot of weight over the next few weeks. finally when she got her stitches out from the stomach surgery her little back legs just started working again, slowly but surely. it was so sad to see her like that though! you just want to take them and hug them and explain to them that it's gonna be okay but you know they don't understand. :sad2:

I am glad that Brett will be able to see Margot. I hope all goes well. I hope things go well with your doggie also.

It looks like you had a great time on Space Mountain. Laughing at Disney World is the best.

thanks! i agree - there's nothing like laughing at disney world!!! :upsidedow

[punkin413]

First of all, keeping my fingers crossed for your brother and his visit with his baby. It does sound suspicious but hopefully it will go well!

Great update! How the heck is Anna taking those pix of you guys on Space Mountain? Is she not holding on at all? I'm such a baby - I just can't bring myself to let go when I'm on those types of rides!

thanks! well, during the blue tunnel park it's not doing much but i don't know how she took the one in the dark because i'm sure we were actually GOING at that point! and that tink clip on ray's bookbag is the one we got on a pirate's punch at mama melrose. he always lights it at night and we get so many comments on it!

Hi Dawn,

New reader here. I just finished catching up on your trip report. It looks like you had a great time. Looking forward to future updates.

Kyle

hi! and WELCOME to my TR!!!!! thanks for reading. :flower3:

Ahhh...you know I love the MK dearly. :cloud9:

:goodvibes

Sorry to hear about Sherman! I hope he feels better!

Great updates though! That picture of the woman trying to run down Anna in that photo pass picture is hilarous! OMG! HAHA!

he does now! thanks. yeah, that lady was like IN the picture! :confused3

that picture of you too it looks like you can see your skull very cool and kinda creepy at the same time.

and i like the kid behind him falling asleep while eating on the bench.

i will have to share the skull effect with anna. she will appreciate that! :laughing: that kid behind luke was falling asleep on his hot dog!

Here's some positive thoughts :goodvibes:goodvibes and pixiedust:pixiedust: for Sherman! Poor guy!

I always have people sitting in front of me that I can't see past! I'm 5 feet tall. I feel your pain!

thanks! short people must unite!

and i saw on facebook that you are mourning your kitty. i just wanted to give you a bunch of these.....:hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug: i know that has to be so hard. i'm so sorry! just remember what a good life you gave him/her!

Aww. Poor Sherman. I hope he's okay. Spoil that little fella and let's get him fixed up.

And this girl....I just feel like she's up to no good! I feel for Brett. At the least he'll get to see his baby. Seriously though....if she's the kind of person she sounds like I'd make sure she's my baby. Girls like that, you can't trust them. If she'd hurt your brother this way who knows what else she's done? I just don't have a good feeling about her. She sounds evil. Sorry.

Now onto the pics update....I love your pic from the MK of the water. It's so cool! I wish that boat ride was still there. I would pay money to ride it! That's what I wish Disney would do for one of their celebrations. Bring back a couple of things from the past. Like this, and the AK cruise! I never did either (that I know of...) Your castle picture is awesome too. Excellent colors! I'd totally frame that one if I were you! Dear God could you have set behind a larger man!? Wow! He's 4 feet wide and doesn't even have a neck! Gosh. I would have asked to sit on the floor. LOL Okay, must say the Space Mountain pic is FREAKY looking. Great update girly!

thanks! he's feeling better.

i'm sure you've seen above but the visit went well....surprisingly. i was very suspicious too. brett is asking for a DNA test as part of the legitimation process. he didn't want to at first but his attorney talked him into it. he wants margot to be his but he wants to be sure just in case.

i have no idea how i ended up behind that guy! it was really funny though. just my luck!

First of all, thinking of poor little Sherman!! Hope that he makes it through o.k. without having to have anything major done.
Luke must've been super tired to have slept that long through all of the MK noise. It's amazing to me what kids can sleep through. (I think I've said that to you before :laughing:)
Love the pics of you and Anna on Space Mountain. You can tell that you were moving and having fun!!

thank you! i'm always amazed at kids sleeping at disney too. i guess they just go until they can't anymore!

My thoughts are with you and Sherman, Our cat fell out of a tree a couple of years a go and broke her pevis in two place. She now has a plate on one side and a screw in the other side, but was fine after six weeks.

Prayers are with your family and the new blessing in your lives.

thanks! your poor kitty! glad she's okay now.

Hope Sherman is feeling better!! Poor little guy!

thanks! see above - he's doing better!

GREAT update as always Dawn :thumbsup2 Loved the Space Mtn. pics, too funny:rotfl: I have NO idea how she could get those without dropping the camera though, impressive ; )
Luke is SUCH a cutie, I just love the pics of him, all the sleeping ones and that one sitting on the bench in Casey's waiting for the hot dogs, too cute. Loved the photopass pic where that lady almost ran Anna over, that's hysterical!
So sorry to hear about Sherman, I SO hope he starts walking for you soon, keep us posted. Also hope things work out for your brother, how sad. Hope they have a good visit.
Have a great weekend.
Lesley

thanks! i will have to pass along to anna how impressed you guys are that she took those pictures! that lady in the photopass was just odd. i'm sure you've seen already but sherman is doing lots better!

[punkin413]

Great news about Sherman and your brother getting to see the baby! :rotfl: at him changing the poopy diaper! Too funny that he was excited about it! Just wait'll he gets a "blow out" one, though!

Love the updates...SM pics are awesome!:lmao:

i think brett was just excited to get to do something for margot. he's young and stupid but he's always wanted to be a dad and i think this is something he's going to be good at if given the chance. :) i tainted my dad from poopy diapers because the first time he changed one he was bending over me kissing my face and i had a blowout and it went all over his chest. my mom says he was running through the house, screaming, "GET IT OFF! GET IF OFF!!!!!" :rotfl2:

It's good to hear positive news on both counts. I'm glad Jordan did show up and that all went okay. I should have gone along to take pictures for him! ;)

It's very good to hear that sweet Sherman is doing better, too. We're sending him lots of lovin' from up here!

Wish Luke lots of luck today in his game. It's fun to watch the little guys learning the social and athletic skills of playing a team sport.

Trent is taking me to see Earth this afternoon, so that's my exciting thing for today.
Cleaning out the back room and throwing out a bunch of stuff I've had stored there for forever - that's the rest of my day.

i thought about calling you and telling you where they were and seeing if you would hide behind a bookshelf and take some secret pictures of them, but i didn't think that would be appropriate. :rolleyes:

the t-ball game was SO FUNNY! we were cracking up at the kids - they were so cute! i got some funny video that i will upload soon.

i want to see earth! let me know how you like it. me and anna were talking about going to see it soon.

Glad to hear good news on both the Margot front and Sherman! Have a fantastic weekend....

thanks! you too!!!

oh I know about the year ago I was in disney thing...but the year anniversary of our disney trip we were in the hospital having Caleb...so I guess it gave us something else to enjoy at that time to take the disney trips place!

oh, see, that's a good thing! this time last year were getting ready for bed at the hojo in orlando and checking in to SSR in the morning. today we worked in the yard and now we're laying in our bed watching the news. definitely not as exciting!!!! :laughing:

I'm so relieved to hear that Sherman is doing better. He's a tough little guy. You must have been so worried. :hug:

Things are looking brighter for your brother! He must have enjoyed every minute with Margot. Let's hope he get's to see her more frequently now...:wizard:
No pics, he needs a do over! ;)

Amazing!!! Is all I can say about the castle pic. So breathtaking! :thumbsup2

You and Anna have the best times together, fun pics.

I just realized we eat at Casey's everytime while watching the Spectro parade too. It seems to be the thing to do. :laughing: I agree with Ray, so Yummy!

Aww! I feel your sadness about not going to WDW. That was me last year. Fortuneately, I found the DIS and you. Reading everyone's TR's made it less terrible.

You will be okay, we'll see you through. :goodvibes

thanks! yeah, he is feeling better, thank goodness! i think brett was just too overwhelmed to take pictures. as soon as my stepmom goes with him though, there will be lots of pics! thanks for the encouragement about my disney depression this week. i know i will make it through and hopefully the next trip in december 2010 will be the best one yet!

Glad that Sherman is OK and I'm so pleased your brother got to spend some time with Margot!

Those Space photos are fantastic so creepy yet cool all at the same time :thumbsup2

thanks! me too! ;) i love those space mountain pics - so funny!

I was curious to know if Anna likes Lukes hair now that it is shorter or will she have it grow longer again? I am growing my Michaels long again...I miss it so...:)

i think she's going to keep it the length it is now for the summer, especially since he's playing t-ball. that way he's not quite so hot. but it's still kinda shaggy and longer than a lot of kids' hair so not completely traditional either.

In memory of last years trip...OHMMMMMM:grouphug:

thanks! :sad:

[MRNsMommy]

i think brett was just excited to get to do something for margot. he's young and stupid but he's always wanted to be a dad and i think this is something he's going to be good at if given the chance. :) i tainted my dad from poopy diapers because the first time he changed one he was bending over me kissing my face and i had a blowout and it went all over his chest. my mom says he was running through the house, screaming, "GET IT OFF! GET IF OFF!!!!!" :rotfl2:


:lmao: OMG! I literally just busted out laughing!!! My DH had the same sort of thing happen to him recently...he was changing a diaper thinking my DD1 was done doing her thing...but apparently she was NOT and she pooped all over his hand as he was wiping her! And he did the same "GET IT OFF!" thing!:rotfl2:

[MaceysMom]

I am so happy that Brett got to see Margot!! I just hate that Jordan gets to hold her over his head and make all the decisions for now. But hopefully soon it will get better.:) Thats all you can ever hope for right? Things to get better when they are bad.

I love Luke sleeping in the stoller. Macey has never fallen asleep in a stoller in her four years.

Awesome news about Sherman. Glad he is better.

I still suck at finding and qouting pictures but Ray looks hardcore with the tink clip on his backpack:upsidedow!

[eemmie1]

Dawn,

I went to see Dane Cook last night and he was awesome! Glad to hear things are starting to look up.

[punkin413]

i don't know if you guys have seen the story on the news about the professor shooting his wife and 2 other people in athens or not (i've put the link below). marie bruce, one of the victims and the shooter's wife, is an attorney we do work for. her law partner is hue henry and he's one of my favorite clients. they are both such great people and i always look forward to going to depositions for them. anyway, hue was was in italy (thank goodness) when this happened because he's also heavily involved in the theater in athens and could have very well been there. hue's son, who runs the office when hue is away, called him last night telling him what was going on and was very scared because the police had already searched their office for this guy and instructed him not to open the office again until further instruction. very scary! marie and the shooter have 2 kids - just a very sad situation. and hue said that tom tanner's (another victim) 8-year-old daughter saw it all happen. anyway, i'm sure all those involved would really appreciate any thoughts and prayers you could send their way! what a crazy world we live in.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/04/25/georgia.shootings/index.html

[MAGICFOR2]

that's such a strange story, so sad. I'm praying of course.

[troobabiee7]

I loved the update! Those Space Mountain pictures are too funny!

I'm glad your brother got to see Margot, if only fora little while. Hopefully things continue to get better.

[2xcited2sleep]

Oh my goodnes, Dawn! I just saw that story on CNN. How sad. I can't even begin to imagine. I'm so very sorry for everyone involved but especially so for the children. How as a child do you deal with that? Knowing one parent harmed the other? Or seeing your parent killed? I have no words. I will certainly say some prayers for everyone.

Hang in there, my friend. You've had a lot going on lately! :hug:

[xoktenox]

Hey Dawn! I finally got a chance to get all caught up.

Congrats on becoming an aunt! (im way behind with that one lol) I'm so sorry that Brett is going through all the trouble with Jordan, it's such a shame that some people cant just be adults, for that baby's sake. Shes only hurting her daughter!

Those Casey's hotdogs in your last update made me sad! My BF and I were eating those at 7pm yesterday :guilty:

Lovedddd the pics from your anniversary weekend! What a calm, serene place. You definitely both deserved that! :thumbsup2

[joy13]

That story is so sad :( Prayers for all involved!

[CanadianWDWfan]

I will pray for everyone involved.

What a terrible thing to happen to your community. :grouphug:

Life is so crazy and unpredictable for sure, love the ones you care for because you just never know what could happen.

Sorry this touches you personally. :hug:

So sad for the children, I hope he turns himself in and it ends peacefully.

[tinkgurl]

so now i know this entire week i will be saying, "this time last year i was doing this," and shed a little internal tear because i know we won't be back this year. :charac2: so i will have to live vicariously through all of you guys for the next 20 months!

You remind me of myself! I always do that, "this time last year i was..". I promise to try and make my TR as good as possible for you so you can enjoy it!

[punkin413]

this day last year ray and i were heading for downtown disney to do some shopping, then eat lunch at earl of sandwich, then heading to DHS for the day.

*sigh*

[mansionterror]

I am all caught up with the Trippie.

I have to say your castle photo is amazing!! Funny you getting stuck behind the tall man...happens to me all the time!! I Love the pics of you and Anna on Space Mountain...those are hilarious and the one of Anna screaming looks very Blair Witch like. :rotfl:

I am so glad that Sherman is doing better and that Brett got to see Margot for awhile, hopefully this is a step in the right direction.

I know what you mean about remembering trips my DH is the same way...about a week before the trip he will say, this time next week we will be leaving for Disney, etc. Then the whole week after our trip he will say this time last week we were at...

FYI: I am starting a PTR for our June 2009 trip if you wanna join it.

I will remember that family in my prayers.

[lmillercrew]

That was my moment of silence for those victims in Georgia.











That's my moment of silence for you and Ray's trip this year. Can you have a moment of silence for my trip also? I just cancelled today and am in mourning. Happy to hear that your fur baby is feeling better. Also, good news on the baby visit with Margot. Hopefully the visits will be more frequent.

[winkers]

the pictures from sm crack me up!
It looks like an x-ray!!:rotfl2:

[castmemberb4]

:hug:for Sherman, glad to hear that he's feeling better. Hearing any animal is sick or hurt makes me weepy especially right now, our 16 year old cat Annie has an agressive non treatable cancer. It's been very hard for us as we lost her sister a year and a half ago. SO a happy:hug:for you that he's getting better.
:cheer2:for Brett that he got to see Margot ! It's so sweet that he was excited about changing a diaper! I have a friend who went through a very similar situation and things have worked out for them. Hope everything works out in the end for Brett and Margot, and all of your family.

Loved the picture of Luke sleeping in the stroller. Don't you wish you could power nap like that at Disney World, and how super cool would it be to wake up in the Magic Kingdom !!! We've all woken up at Disney World but usually we're in a hotel room. I keep wishing for that but it just dosen't happen, I keep waking up at home !
Lynn

[LISAMWDW]

this day last year ray and i were heading for downtown disney to do some shopping, then eat lunch at earl of sandwich, then heading to DHS for the day.

*sigh*

Your making me homesick! ;)

We have also decided to skip WDW to take the kids somewhere else so they don't think the whole world is WDW! It's going to be tough to skip it though! I'm not sure I'll make it! :rotfl:

[punkin413]

this time last year we were taking our spontaneous jaunt across world showcase before having an awesome dinner at narcoosee's while watching wishes. now if THAT doesn't make me sad, NOTHING will!!!!!!

[tinkgurl]

this time last year we were taking our spontaneous jaunt across world showcase before having an awesome dinner at narcoosee's while watching wishes. now if THAT doesn't make me sad, NOTHING will!!!!!!

Aw, wasn't this the night that you were all dressed up before you went to eat while walking through Epcot?

[MeMom]

this time last year we were taking our spontaneous jaunt across world showcase before having an awesome dinner at narcoosee's while watching wishes. now if THAT doesn't make me sad, NOTHING will!!!!!!


Yeah, maybe, buuuuut you can console yourself by saying, "The next time we go, we'll be strolling around World Showcase behind a stroller."

As for Wishes, Ray will smile at you, and you will smile at Ray, and you'll both snuggle up with your little soft-skinned round-faced bundle of joy. Those fireworks will be the biggest and brightest you have ever seen on that magic night. You might shed a tear, but it'll be a happy tear!

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Yeah, maybe, buuuuut you can console yourself by saying, "The next time we go, we'll be strolling around World Showcase behind a stroller."

As for Wishes, Ray will smile at you, and you will smile at Ray, and you'll both snuggle up with your little soft-skinned round-faced bundle of joy. Those fireworks will be the biggest and brightest you have ever seen on that magic night. You might shed a tear, but it'll be a happy tear!

I agree! There is NOTHING like Disney with your little one!

[Philadisney]

Love the castle pic - it looks like a postcard! Love all the pics of Luke sleeping too :rotfl: Too funny.

I also had fun living vicariously through your pictures of your anniversary weekend....that cabin & view were soooo gorgeous. Although I too would have been pretty unhappy with that brutal hike!

I am glad Sherman is feeling better - and I hope things with your brother continue to get better too :hug:

[Charleston Princess]

I remember reading about your WS tour (you and Ray holding up SSE) and your wonderful dinner at Narcoose's! That was a great day for you two.

[punkin413]

okay, i know i'm probably overreacting but i've been watching the news and i'm very concerned that we'll need to postpone our NYC trip because of this swine flu thing. out of the 66 cases in the united states 45 are in NYC and i know it's only going to get worse for the next couple of weeks. am i freaking over nothing?

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

okay, i know i'm probably overreacting but i've been watching the news and i'm very concerned that we'll need to postpone our NYC trip because of this swine flu thing. out of the 66 cases in the united states 45 are in NYC and i know it's only going to get worse for the next couple of weeks. am i freaking over nothing?


I wouldn't go, BUT when I took the Disney personality quiz, I was most like Marlin (Nemo's Dad)!:lmao: And boy is that an accurate assessment! So I may not be the one to ask. :laughing:

[MaceysMom]

This whole swine flu thing is kinda freaking me out too. I am not usually a germaphobe but 45 out of 66 are in nyc? a little scary!

A little off subject how was your dinner at Narcoossee's? I was going to put that in our adrs but I am not sure if I want to spend 2 ts credtis on it or not.

[MRNsMommy]

Yeah, the whole swine flu (or whatever they're calling it now) would totally freak me out, too! I'm not saying you shouldn't go, but just be careful!

[lmillercrew]

It's so hard not to freak out a little bit over this swine flu thing. I would hate to see people start putting their lives on hold because of it. Don't cancel your trip. Just keep living!! Wash your hands more, carry anti bacterial stuff and I'm sure you'll be fine. Beef up your vitamins!

[xoktenox]

okay, i know i'm probably overreacting but i've been watching the news and i'm very concerned that we'll need to postpone our NYC trip because of this swine flu thing. out of the 66 cases in the united states 45 are in NYC and i know it's only going to get worse for the next couple of weeks. am i freaking over nothing?

still go!!! the only reason there's so many cases there is because of the school in Queens (not Manhattan) where like 20 kids went to Cancun for the spring break. Just take precautions like washing your hands alot/bring anti bacterial gel with you and stay away from sick people! You'll be fine! Go and have a greatttt time :thumbsup2

[troobabiee7]

okay, i know i'm probably overreacting but i've been watching the news and i'm very concerned that we'll need to postpone our NYC trip because of this swine flu thing. out of the 66 cases in the united states 45 are in NYC and i know it's only going to get worse for the next couple of weeks. am i freaking over nothing?

Yes! :laughing: The whole country is freaking out over nothing. It's mainly contained to one school in Queens and the media's blowing it way out of proportion. Bloomberg and some of the top doctors in the city have made several press conferences saying that all cases have been very mild and there's nothing to worry about. Of course you should be careful (wash your hands, and like I told Lessa, don't lick anything random :laughing:) but it's not as bad as the media's making it out to be. Like the doctors said, people seem to forget that tens of thousands of people die from the regular flu every year in the US alone. People are just freaking out because this is something new, and you know how the news can get with it's coverage :rolleyes:

I've been running all around the city lately and I'm not even worried. Go, wash your hands, and have have fun!

[DisneyLaura]

this day last year ray and i were heading for downtown disney to do some shopping, then eat lunch at earl of sandwich, then heading to DHS for the day.

*sigh*

*sigh*with you

Yeah, maybe, buuuuut you can console yourself by saying, "The next time we go, we'll be strolling around World Showcase behind a stroller."

As for Wishes, Ray will smile at you, and you will smile at Ray, and you'll both snuggle up with your little soft-skinned round-faced bundle of joy. Those fireworks will be the biggest and brightest you have ever seen on that magic night. You might shed a tear, but it'll be a happy tear!

I agree! There is NOTHING like Disney with your little one!

Oh yes a very different experience when you go with your own children.

[kschafer]

i don't know if you guys have seen the story on the news about the professor shooting his wife and 2 other people in athens or not...hue said that tom tanner's (another victim) 8-year-old daughter saw it all happen. anyway, i'm sure all those involved would really appreciate any thoughts and prayers you could send their way! what a crazy world we live in.

I didn't hear much about this which is surprising because yesterday my brother mentioned to me that Tom went to our high school. He graduated with my brother (3 years older, I didn't really know him well but the name rang a bell once he mentioned it) and they remained in contact through facebook. so sad to happen to anyone but it really is terrible to think about when you know the victims. Their families are in my thoughts

I say keep you NYC trip! Wash your hands, keep hand sanitizer nearby and enjoy your life!!

[KristinAnne]

Don't panic yet. I know it's been turned into more of a pandemic as of today, but I'm sure they'll say if it's not safe to visit NYC. I think you should go and have fun!

[shannon47142]

when is your trip to NYC?

[hlrababy]

Hey Dawn!!!!!!!!

Just dropping in! I am caught up with your updates after being gone for a few days!!:goodvibes

So glad Brett got to see Margot!!

[punkin413]

:lmao: OMG! I literally just busted out laughing!!! My DH had the same sort of thing happen to him recently...he was changing a diaper thinking my DD1 was done doing her thing...but apparently she was NOT and she pooped all over his hand as he was wiping her! And he did the same "GET IT OFF!" thing!:rotfl2:

:lmao:

I am so happy that Brett got to see Margot!! I just hate that Jordan gets to hold her over his head and make all the decisions for now. But hopefully soon it will get better.:) Thats all you can ever hope for right? Things to get better when they are bad.

I love Luke sleeping in the stoller. Macey has never fallen asleep in a stoller in her four years.

Awesome news about Sherman. Glad he is better.

I still suck at finding and qouting pictures but Ray looks hardcore with the tink clip on his backpack:upsidedow!

i hate it, too. she has an attorney now so i'm hoping we can start dealing with someone who's sane! i love that ray has tink on the back pack. at night when she's glowing green everyone always makes comments about her!

Dawn,

I went to see Dane Cook last night and he was awesome! Glad to hear things are starting to look up.

awesome!!!! i can't wait! :cool1:

that's such a strange story, so sad. I'm praying of course.

thanks. the guy is still missing. i'm wondering if they're going to find his body somewhere soon. i know that sounds morbid but i can see him taking his own life after all that.

I loved the update! Those Space Mountain pictures are too funny!

I'm glad your brother got to see Margot, if only fora little while. Hopefully things continue to get better.

thanks! (for both!)

Oh my goodnes, Dawn! I just saw that story on CNN. How sad. I can't even begin to imagine. I'm so very sorry for everyone involved but especially so for the children. How as a child do you deal with that? Knowing one parent harmed the other? Or seeing your parent killed? I have no words. I will certainly say some prayers for everyone.

Hang in there, my friend. You've had a lot going on lately! :hug:

i know. just horrific. like i said above, i can just see them finding his body somewhere soon. i can't imagine facing my kids ever again after doing that. thanks.

Hey Dawn! I finally got a chance to get all caught up.

Congrats on becoming an aunt! (im way behind with that one lol) I'm so sorry that Brett is going through all the trouble with Jordan, it's such a shame that some people cant just be adults, for that baby's sake. Shes only hurting her daughter!

Those Casey's hotdogs in your last update made me sad! My BF and I were eating those at 7pm yesterday :guilty:

Lovedddd the pics from your anniversary weekend! What a calm, serene place. You definitely both deserved that! :thumbsup2

thanks! i am learning with age that most people are idiots. well, most people except my friends and family and of course my disfriends! :rotfl:

ray would be so jealous to know you guys were eating casey dogs! he loves that place.

That story is so sad :( Prayers for all involved!

thanks.

I will pray for everyone involved.

What a terrible thing to happen to your community. :grouphug:

Life is so crazy and unpredictable for sure, love the ones you care for because you just never know what could happen.

Sorry this touches you personally. :hug:

So sad for the children, I hope he turns himself in and it ends peacefully.

definitely! thanks for your kind words. they still haven't found him.

You remind me of myself! I always do that, "this time last year i was..". I promise to try and make my TR as good as possible for you so you can enjoy it!

thanks.....i'll need it!!!!

I am all caught up with the Trippie.

I have to say your castle photo is amazing!! Funny you getting stuck behind the tall man...happens to me all the time!! I Love the pics of you and Anna on Space Mountain...those are hilarious and the one of Anna screaming looks very Blair Witch like. :rotfl:

I am so glad that Sherman is doing better and that Brett got to see Margot for awhile, hopefully this is a step in the right direction.

I know what you mean about remembering trips my DH is the same way...about a week before the trip he will say, this time next week we will be leaving for Disney, etc. Then the whole week after our trip he will say this time last week we were at...

FYI: I am starting a PTR for our June 2009 trip if you wanna join it.

I will remember that family in my prayers.

it does look very blair witch, doesn't it? :laughing: i will be checking out your PTR soon! :surfweb: thanks.

That was my moment of silence for those victims in Georgia.




That's my moment of silence for you and Ray's trip this year. Can you have a moment of silence for my trip also? I just cancelled today and am in mourning. Happy to hear that your fur baby is feeling better. Also, good news on the baby visit with Margot. Hopefully the visits will be more frequent.

oh, i'm so sorry to hear about your cancellation! are you guys going at a later date? i hope so.

the pictures from sm crack me up!
It looks like an x-ray!!:rtfl2:

:rotfl2: i'm glad you enjoyed them!

:hug:for Sherman, glad to hear that he's feeling better. Hearing any animal is sick or hurt makes me weepy especially right now, our 16 year old cat Annie has an agressive non treatable cancer. It's been very hard for us as we lost her sister a year and a half ago. SO a happy:hug:for you that he's getting better.
:cheer2:for Brett that he got to see Margot ! It's so sweet that he was excited about changing a diaper! I have a friend who went through a very similar situation and things have worked out for them. Hope everything works out in the end for Brett and Margot, and all of your family.

Loved the picture of Luke sleeping in the stroller. Don't you wish you could power nap like that at Disney World, and how super cool would it be to wake up in the Magic Kingdom !!! We've all woken up at Disney World but usually we're in a hotel room. I keep wishing for that but it just dosen't happen, I keep waking up at home !
Lynn

thanks! sorry to hear about your annie. :hug: i'm such an animal person - i can't stand to see them in pain.

waking up in MK would be the BEST! :goodvibes

[punkin413]

Your making me homesick! ;)

We have also decided to skip WDW to take the kids somewhere else so they don't think the whole world is WDW! It's going to be tough to skip it though! I'm not sure I'll make it! :rotfl:

it stinks but it has to be done. i can't force ray to go every year because then he'll end up hating it. i want him to continue to like it so i'm willing to go like every other year!

Aw, wasn't this the night that you were all dressed up before you went to eat while walking through Epcot?

yep, that's it!

Yeah, maybe, buuuuut you can console yourself by saying, "The next time we go, we'll be strolling around World Showcase behind a stroller."

As for Wishes, Ray will smile at you, and you will smile at Ray, and you'll both snuggle up with your little soft-skinned round-faced bundle of joy. Those fireworks will be the biggest and brightest you have ever seen on that magic night. You might shed a tear, but it'll be a happy tear!

you're totally right! i can't wait. it will be an amazing experience, i'm sure.

I agree! There is NOTHING like Disney with your little one!

:goodvibes

Love the castle pic - it looks like a postcard! Love all the pics of Luke sleeping too :rotfl: Too funny.

I also had fun living vicariously through your pictures of your anniversary weekend....that cabin & view were soooo gorgeous. Although I too would have been pretty unhappy with that brutal hike!

I am glad Sherman is feeling better - and I hope things with your brother continue to get better too :hug:

yeah, that hike was crazy. i knew going into it that we'd have to do it, though. so i was mentally prepared. :laughing: thanks for the encouragement!

I remember reading about your WS tour (you and Ray holding up SSE) and your wonderful dinner at Narcoose's! That was a great day for you two.

yep, that was such a great night!

I wouldn't go, BUT when I took the Disney personality quiz, I was most like Marlin (Nemo's Dad)!:lmao: And boy is that an accurate assessment! So I may not be the one to ask. :laughing:

:laughing:

This whole swine flu thing is kinda freaking me out too. I am not usually a germaphobe but 45 out of 66 are in nyc? a little scary!

A little off subject how was your dinner at Narcoossee's? I was going to put that in our adrs but I am not sure if I want to spend 2 ts credtis on it or not.

yeah, it is kinda scary but now that i know a lot of that is at one school in queens i'm not so worried.

we LOVE narcoosee's. we've been twice now and both times it was great. i will put the links below so you can read both times in my TRs. the first time was in may 2007 and the second time was april 2008.

1st time - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=19167933&postcount=472

2nd time - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=25897996&postcount=777

Yeah, the whole swine flu (or whatever they're calling it now) would totally freak me out, too! I'm not saying you shouldn't go, but just be careful!

i know! so freaky.

It's so hard not to freak out a little bit over this swine flu thing. I would hate to see people start putting their lives on hold because of it. Don't cancel your trip. Just keep living!! Wash your hands more, carry anti bacterial stuff and I'm sure you'll be fine. Beef up your vitamins!

i agree. thanks!

still go!!! the only reason there's so many cases there is because of the school in Queens (not Manhattan) where like 20 kids went to Cancun for the spring break. Just take precautions like washing your hands alot/bring anti bacterial gel with you and stay away from sick people! You'll be fine! Go and have a greatttt time :thumbsup2

thanks so much. now that i know the thing about the school in queens, i'm a little less worried. i will be stocking up on antibacterial gel.

Yes! :laughing: The whole country is freaking out over nothing. It's mainly contained to one school in Queens and the media's blowing it way out of proportion. Bloomberg and some of the top doctors in the city have made several press conferences saying that all cases have been very mild and there's nothing to worry about. Of course you should be careful (wash your hands, and like I told Lessa, don't lick anything random :laughing:) but it's not as bad as the media's making it out to be. Like the doctors said, people seem to forget that tens of thousands of people die from the regular flu every year in the US alone. People are just freaking out because this is something new, and you know how the news can get with it's coverage :rolleyes:

I've been running all around the city lately and I'm not even worried. Go, wash your hands, and have have fun!

ditto (what i said above) - thanks for your thoughts! i appreciate it. and i will be sure not to lick anything random. ;)

*sigh*with you

Oh yes a very different experience when you go with your own children.

i'm sure. :goodvibes

I didn't hear much about this which is surprising because yesterday my brother mentioned to me that Tom went to our high school. He graduated with my brother (3 years older, I didn't really know him well but the name rang a bell once he mentioned it) and they remained in contact through facebook. so sad to happen to anyone but it really is terrible to think about when you know the victims. Their families are in my thoughts

I say keep you NYC trip! Wash your hands, keep hand sanitizer nearby and enjoy your life!!

so sorry you knew him. just such a sad thing to happen. :hug:

thanks - as of now i'm going! as long as it doesn't get really bad. if they close the airports then there's not much i can do!

Don't panic yet. I know it's been turned into more of a pandemic as of today, but I'm sure they'll say if it's not safe to visit NYC. I think you should go and have fun!

thanks - me too!

when is your trip to NYC?

3 weeks from friday. :yay:

[punkin413]

AI SPOILER AHEAD.....SCROLL DOWN IF YOU DON'T WANT TO KNOW!!!!!

okay.....another moment of silence, please, for matt who just got booted. he was my favorite and i'm sad. now i'm voting for danny and chris.
















also, this time last year ray and i were back at SSR after a full day at MK. we were making a HUGE change in plans to go to epcot the next day instead of mini golf and AK again which was a great surprise for me since i had no plans of forcing ray to go to what he used to call "hellcot". :laughing:

this is not an update. sorry to disappoint. i just had some pics i've taken over the past few weeks that i wanted to share.

first, our neighborhood easter egg hunt. this was the saturday before easter. here's all the kids after the hunt.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/Pic032.jpg

me and anna enjoying the beautiful weather!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/430445993308_0_ALB.jpg

hunting for eggs!!!!! check out the boots. he's stylin.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/130006993308_0_ALB.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/934055993308_0_ALB.jpg

this is a little girl in our neighborhood named katie. she was born in 2007 with a lot of medical complications and almost didn't make it. now she's healthy and thriving and SO CUTE!!!!!! i just smile when i see her big blue eyes. such a cutie.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/857326993308_0_ALB.jpg

this is anna and her sister trying to get pictures of their boys, luke and anna's nephew, will. they were SO not interested in taking pictures.....there was candy to be eaten!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/Pic050.jpg

here are a couple of videos. this one is of luke eating a sour piece of candy. he's such a goofball!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/th_Pic052.jpg (http://s285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/?action=view&current=Pic052.flv)

this one is of luke doing the robot!!!!! :lmao: anna said the first time he did it they had just watched "pinnochio" and the recent remake of "when you wish upon a star" was playing during the credits and he just started doing it. must be something he learned at school.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/th_Pic053.jpg (http://s285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/?action=view&current=Pic053.flv)

okay.....the next pictures are of luke's t-ball game this past saturday. it was SO CUTE! a bunch of 4-year-olds basically just being 4-year-olds wearing baseball uniforms. me and ray were cracking up.

here's luke throwing the ball around before the game.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00928.jpg

during the game. you can see anna in the blue and chris in black - they are assistant coaches.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00931.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00932.jpg

getting ready to bat!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00935.jpg

luke's first at bat.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/th_MOV00936.jpg (http://s285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/?action=view&current=MOV00936.flv)

getting ready to run!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00938.jpg

coach anna.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00939.jpg

luke's second at bat. he gets a triple - watch when he gets to third base. he walks over to the fence because someone over there had a dog. who cares about baseball....i wanna pet the dog! :rotfl2:

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/th_MOV00941.jpg (http://s285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/?action=view&current=MOV00941.flv)

there was a little boy named jake that batted after luke that i filmed because he's HILARIOUS!!!!!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/th_MOV00942.jpg (http://s285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/?action=view&current=MOV00942.flv)

good game, good game, good game.....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00946.jpg

having an after-game snack with chris and his best friend jonah....

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00951.jpg

continued in next post: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31589656&postcount=1748

[punkin413]

the rest of these are just pictures i've taken the past few days. everything in my yard is starting to bloom.....it's so pretty! spring has become my favorite season as i've gotten older. i just love watching everything become pretty again! the pollen bugs me but not enough to make me dislike this time of year.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00952.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00960.jpg

this is part of my butterfly garden outside my office window. ray and i just planted a bunch of butterfly-attracting plants and flowers out there. it works, too!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00964.jpg

shermie!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00957.jpg

tink says hi from her perch atop the bird bath.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00975.jpg

i looked across the yard at one point to find eli laying there, chewing on a stick. such a dork!

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00968.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00973.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00971.jpg

we put the umbrella up to clean the pollen off the table and a wasp had started a nest underneath it. we didn't have any wasp killer (which i went to home depot today to purchase!) so ray decided to fight him off with a broom. :rotfl2:

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00981.jpg

eli's thinking, "what in the world is my crazy father doing now????"

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll79/punkin1803/spring/DSC00982.jpg

i love spring! :flower3: hope you all are having the kind of weather we are here. i know you're all not but i at least hope it's getting warmer where you are!

[tinkgurl]

Haha, this update was so cute!

Luke is adorable playing ball! Whoa, Coach Anna could kick my butt with those arms!

Haha, "eli's thinking, "what in the world is my crazy father doing now????" The perfect caption for that picture Dawn!

[IluvXU]

You can tell you are farther south than us... your yard, trees, flowers are just weeks ahead of ours. Luke's game looks like so much fun, we have our first softball game this weekend.

As for AI---- I am so sad too. I loved Matt... what an awesome story! I would have thrown a party if it would have been Adam leaving tonight- he is too full of himself and such a drama king... not for me!