Now Bring Me That Horizon ~ It Begins P115

[If U Had Wings]

The only thing I got concerned about (just yesterday) is whether or not I'll be fitting DS' spare clothes in that main compartment. I think it'll work if I roll them.

I don't think you should have any problem. I carried around a lightweight fleece in mine, and that was adult size.

What exactly do you fit in that front pocket?

The pocket along the stap isn't huge, but it's just the right size to carry around your room key, cash, eye drops, fast passes, that kind of thing. It just makes it so easy to get to that stuff. I also love the two side pockets. There is one with a velcro closure, and that one was perfect for my sunglasses, and the other meshy one was great for a poncho or a compact umbrella.

[Normangirls]

Made our ADR's this morning -- good heavens, I wasn't that stressed out taking my college boards! I didn't get everything I wanted when I wanted, and really had to rearrange things on the fly. But I think I am done. I need to take few hours, do some actual work, and then go back and check everything. I just cannot look at it anymore.

We are going to MNSSHP on 9/29. As mentioned, all three girls are dressing up as fairies (DD's are ages 3, 8, and 13, but the 13-year-old is being a good sport about dressing up).

I cannot wait. I just can't get too pumped up right now after two hours of ADR heck.

Anyway, :banana: we're going to Disney World!

[TarzansKat]

I should just go back and read LOL...but when in is your ADR day it has to be coming up pretty darn soon...is it tomorrow??? I'm going to be crossing my fingers and toes for you!

It's actually on Wednesday. Hopefully it'll go well, and I'll go to work in a good mood. :lmao: Thanks for the fingers and toes... :thumbsup2

I don't think you should have any problem. I carried around a lightweight fleece in mine, and that was adult size.

Oh, good. Good to know.:thumbsup2


The pocket along the stap isn't huge, but it's just the right size to carry around your room key, cash, eye drops, fast passes, that kind of thing. It just makes it so easy to get to that stuff. I also love the two side pockets. There is one with a velcro closure, and that one was perfect for my sunglasses, and the other meshy one was great for a poncho or a compact umbrella.

Excellent! That will be awesome for me, not having to dig through everything else to get to it.

Made our ADR's this morning -- good heavens, I wasn't that stressed out taking my college boards! I didn't get everything I wanted when I wanted, and really had to rearrange things on the fly. But I think I am done. I need to take few hours, do some actual work, and then go back and check everything. I just cannot look at it anymore.

I have back up plans in my head for different days, so I'm hoping if we don't get something I wanted, I'll pull out of my memory something else.

Wish me luck. :thumbsup2


We are going to MNSSHP on 9/29. As mentioned, all three girls are dressing up as fairies (DD's are ages 3, 8, and 13, but the 13-year-old is being a good sport about dressing up).

I'm glad your thirteen year old is being a good sport! I know that's a tough age...I remember it.

Although, you can tell her your almost thirty something friend from the DIS would love to dress as a fairy.

Heck, I just want the cool wings.:lmao:

Then, again, maybe you shouldn't tell her. I'm sure I'll seem ancient and so not cool. :rotfl2:


I cannot wait. I just can't get too pumped up right now after two hours of ADR heck.

TWO HOURS???:scared1::scared1::scared1:


Anyway, :banana: we're going to Disney World!

And that's the important thing!!! :banana::banana::banana:

[jaynesherer]

We got it for our last trip and just loved, loved, loved it!! And my husband carried it most of the time, and thought it was very comfortable and manageable. So I hope you love it as much as we do.

Jayne

[MegansMom]

Sorry to hear about the VERA......very disappointing!!! I hope you like the Baggalini!!! I am wishing you MUCH pixie dust for the ADRs.....oh what fun!!! ;) Can I just say that the other day, for no apparent reason, I was thinking about how close our trips are, and got a wee bit sad knowing that we would be so close to meeting......and yet so far!!!! :( I just hope you all have a VERY good trip!!!

[TarzansKat]

We got it for our last trip and just loved, loved, loved it!! And my husband carried it most of the time, and thought it was very comfortable and manageable. So I hope you love it as much as we do.

Jayne

Oh, thank you for your review! That's good to know, and I'm glad to hear your husband liked it as well. My husband is very much a "have backpack, will travel" kind of guy. Although I'm sure if I begged him, he'd carry the Vera for me, I think he'll feel more masculine with the black baggalini. :lmao:

Sorry to hear about the VERA......very disappointing!!! I hope you like the Baggalini!!! I am wishing you MUCH pixie dust for the ADRs.....oh what fun!!! ;) Can I just say that the other day, for no apparent reason, I was thinking about how close our trips are, and got a wee bit sad knowing that we would be so close to meeting......and yet so far!!!! :( I just hope you all have a VERY good trip!!!

I was bummed about the Vera because it was such an adorable print in person. But you know what, I love my red cargo sling, so I'm lucky to have that.

Ugh. ADR day. I just wish it wasn't a day I worked. I know I can get on there at 600am (online) though, so that's what I'll do.

I know, our trips are so close and yet so far!!!! It's a big bummer to me, I would love to have met you in person.

However, it's an excellent reason to go back. :thumbsup2

[jmamom]

Thank you, thank you for telling us about the great deal you got on the baggalini!! I've been planning to buy one for the trip, but was having a hard time plunking down full price for it. I just ordered one in Khaki, and even found the $10 off coupon code you mentioned. You're the best!!

[TarzansKat]

Thank you, thank you for telling us about the great deal you got on the baggalini!! I've been planning to buy one for the trip, but was having a hard time plunking down full price for it. I just ordered one in Khaki, and even found the $10 off coupon code you mentioned. You're the best!!

You're welcome!

I rarely, rarely, rarely if ever pay full price for anything. I am all about internet shopping, free shipping and returns, and coupon codes. :lmao:

I'm so glad I was able to help someone else get what they wanted. And it's exciting that so many of you are excited about this bag. It really gives me high hopes!!! :goodvibes

[TarzansKat]

I can't take credit for that quote, that's Danny Kaye.

A very wise, and entertaining man. Who also said, "To travel is to take a journey into yourself."

Ponder on that whilst we have the most drive by of updates.

I just have a couple of things to share. I hope you're not all groaning with the rapid fire updates, but I promise I'll make it quick.

The first custom tank has been made. And it's not something I previously discussed. But I am very excited about it.

And it wouldn't be a TK PTR without a headless shot, so here goes.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0239-1.jpg

And for those of you who don't want to stare intently at my chest trying to decipher that cute design, here it is. ;)

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/BDayFabFive.jpg

I'm debating when in the trip I'm going to wear this. Maybe to breakfast at Chef Mickey's. I think it'd be a hoot. :thumbsup2 I'm actually quite fond of the white background on the black tank. I think it makes it stand out a bit more.

And I have something else to show you. I didn't take a lot of photos. I hope you can tell what it is.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0240.jpg

Yup. Those are the tie dye Mickey shirts. We've been working on them for the past two nights, separating the tasks out, and tonight we did the actual dye.

Pray for them.

Please. I'm so worried. I have to say, the boys shirts looked great during the process, but I'm a little worried about the integrity of my Mickey head.

And now that I've written that, I realize how silly that sounds. :rotfl2:

I'm a little touch slap happy.

I think it's tie dye paint fumes. :rolleyes1

[Charleston Princess]

Awesome shirt!!! I think it turned out great!!! Too cute and I know you are so excited about wearing it!

I shall send a little prayer up tonight for the tie-dyed shirts and the integrity of your Mickey head! ;)

[TarzansKat]

Awesome shirt!!! I think it turned out great!!! Too cute and I know you are so excited about wearing it!

I'm definitely going to make my Peter Pan one, and I have another one up my sleeve that makes me laugh hysterically. Whether or not everyone else finds it funny... :rolleyes1 pirate:


I shall send a little prayer up tonight for the tie-dyed shirts and the integrity of your Mickey head! ;)

Thank you, my dear.

[If U Had Wings]

The shirt is adorable, and I really like it on the dark tee. It really stands out that way.

I had read a hint about the tye dyed shirts if the Mickey head doesn't "pop" enough. If you need a bit more white around them, just use one of those clorox bleach pens to outline the edge a bit.

[jenjolt]

I love the tank TK!! It is practically perfect for you!!! I need to get on the shirt making of course I need to figure out a design I would like LOL!!

Can't wait to see how the tie dye shirts turned how, I'm sure they will be most wonderful!!!

Okay tomorrow is the big day can't wait to see how it goes!! Sending major pixie dust your way...:wizard:

[2xcited2sleep]

Love your tank top! So cute... I mean piratey. pirate: Praying for your tye die shirts and the integrity of your mickey head. :)

[TarzansKat]

The shirt is adorable, and I really like it on the dark tee. It really stands out that way.

I thought it would be a nice change from plain white.


I had read a hint about the tye dyed shirts if the Mickey head doesn't "pop" enough. If you need a bit more white around them, just use one of those clorox bleach pens to outline the edge a bit.

OMG! Thank you so much for posting that!!!! That is a great idea, and I'm sure it'll help. :goodvibes

I love the tank TK!! It is practically perfect for you!!! I need to get on the shirt making of course I need to figure out a design I would like LOL!!

Jen, let me know if you want me to design one for you. I'm not on the DISigns board, but I enjoy dabbling in it.


Can't wait to see how the tie dye shirts turned how, I'm sure they will be most wonderful!!!

They're still soaking right now. I hesitate to take them apart yet. I think I'll wait for DS' naptime.


Okay tomorrow is the big day can't wait to see how it goes!! Sending major pixie dust your way...:wizard:

Oh, I know. Wednesday, Wednesday. My ADR day. I felt like I needed a countdown ticker just for this. :lmao:

Love your tank top! So cute... I mean piratey. pirate: Praying for your tye die shirts and the integrity of your mickey head. :)

Thank you! :goodvibes

[eandesmom]

So sorry about the Vera but I think you'll love the bagallini. They have a LOT of pockets. ITA, if you have lost something, look in there again. Amazing really. The black tank is muy cute! Very fun, and very you :) which is the most important part.

You have my deepest P&PT tie dye turn out...I have good vibes on those.

I love your ability to laugh and amuse yourself, it is a gift so few of us have. Keep it, it will keep you sane when all else fails.

Just remember tonight to SLEEP before your ADR's....!!

[pooh'smate]

I am still around I have just been busy. Love your new bag and your tank top. Looking forward to hearing about your adrs. Here is a little pixiedust: for you.

[TarzansKat]

So sorry about the Vera but I think you'll love the bagallini. They have a LOT of pockets. ITA, if you have lost something, look in there again. Amazing really. The black tank is muy cute! Very fun, and very you :) which is the most important part.

I can't wait to get my bag. I keep checking to see if I have a shipment confirmation yet. :lmao:


You have my deepest P&PT tie dye turn out...I have good vibes on those.

I'll post on that later. I'm not unhappy with how they turned out, but...well, you'll see. :lmao:


I love your ability to laugh and amuse yourself, it is a gift so few of us have. Keep it, it will keep you sane when all else fails.

I get that from my Granddad. He was totally like that, and it's a great quality to have, I love that it reminds me of him.


Just remember tonight to SLEEP before your ADR's....!!

Um, yeah.

Maybe I'll have a glass of wine or a margarita to help knock me out. :lmao:

I am still around I have just been busy. Love your new bag and your tank top. Looking forward to hearing about your adrs. Here is a little pixiedust: for you.

Hi, hon! Happy to have you check in! Thanks for the pixie dust, lord knows I need it on many counts.

[MegansMom]

I love the tank!!!! SO YOU!!!!! I also have great hope that your tye dyed shirts will turn out just fine!!! Can't wait to see those too!!!

[eandesmom]

Maybe I'll have a glass of wine or a margarita to help knock me out. :lmao:


I can't wait to see how that turns out with your ADR's :)

:thumbsup2 fingers crossed for good luck and look forward to seeing your results!

[All7OfUs]

I adore your shirt! Really!

Too bad we won't be celebrating any birthdays while we are gone, but maybe we can change the wording and use it too. Is that allowed??

Wish I were more creative, but I'm just not. Ah well... why reinvent the wheel, I always say. :laughing:

Here's to hoping those tie-dyes will work out!:upsidedow

[If U Had Wings]

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you that your ADRs went well this morning. Sending a bit of pixie dust your way just in case. :wizard:

[TarzansKat]

I love the tank!!!! SO YOU!!!!! I also have great hope that your tye dyed shirts will turn out just fine!!! Can't wait to see those too!!!

Thanks, hon. I'll be posting about ADRs next, but the shirts should follow soon. :thumbsup2

I can't wait to see how that turns out with your ADR's :)

Two words.

Oy.

Vey.


:thumbsup2 fingers crossed for good luck and look forward to seeing your results!

Thank you, I appreciate it.

I adore your shirt! Really!

Too bad we won't be celebrating any birthdays while we are gone, but maybe we can change the wording and use it too. Is that allowed??

I totally borrowed the phrasing from someone on the DISigns board (hope they don't mind, but I figured it's a sharing kind of place) and found my own graphic to go with it.

If you'd like to me to make something for your group, I'd be happy to. Just let me know. :thumbsup2


Here's to hoping those tie-dyes will work out!:upsidedow

Thanks!

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you that your ADRs went well this morning. Sending a bit of pixie dust your way just in case. :wizard:

Thank you, hon.

I needed it. :rolleyes1

[If U Had Wings]

Oh, no! I hope you got at least a few things that you wanted.

[TarzansKat]

Aha! D'OH! Ri-ight..... :confused3

Oh. My. Word.

Did I have a bit of trouble this morning.

Well, last night, I went to bed after working on the second round of tie dye shirts for myself and DS. I just couldn't resist. We had leftover dye and I wanted to see if I could make them turn out better. That's a whole other chapter, though.

So, suffice it to say, I went to bed late. I've been doing a lot of that lately, and last night was no exception. Never did have that glass of wine, unfortunately.

Perhaps I should have had a mimosa this morning. DS woke up around 5:45 and I had my alarm set for ten of, so that worked out fine. I was tired. I was not functioning on my full mental capacity.

I had not played around with the new online system enough.

And when I finally got the computer cued up, and got in, and my first ADR wasn't available, I panicked.

And then the next one wasn't.

I almost cried.

I almost lost it. Right then and there. I thought, oh my goodness. I had a 90 day booking window for my May trip with Tink, there was no online system, and I called at seven and we got everything we wanted. And let me tell you, we got some hard to snag things, too.

How was it possible that basic things weren't available at all?

I couldn't remember my back up plans, I had notes, but they didn't help. I started forgetting names of restaurants, menus, information that I can normally recall at any given second, but for some reason, panic set in and I went into, OMG, what CAN I GET mode.

And then some things started to book.

So we had some Aha! :idea: And some D'oh! :headache: And some Ri-ight... :rolleyes:

I won't go into it all, but at one point, I was seriously disgusted. I just couldn't believe the lack of availability for certain restaurants, and I couldn't believe the times I was getting. As in okay, but not ideal.

I have to be honest, and I don't mean to sound like a whiner. I've never, ever had this kind of problem before. But, I've never had to do a 90 day booking window with this many people. The last time we went as a big group, it was 180, and I always got whatever on whatever day at whatever time.

In short...I was lucky, and possibly spoiled by good fortune.

I am not, however, without a sense of resourcefulness. So I pondered and debated and wondered how to make things work.

And I pondered and debated and wondered a little too long, and folks, I was late to work. :eek: Fortunately, everyone was in a great mood when I got there, so no harm done.

Now Mom and I had been chatting throughout the day, but there was never really a good point for us to talk about all the ressies and the times until I got out of work. Fortunately for us, DS was taking a nice long nap, so we could chat easily, uninterrupted.

And we did. At length.

And thank the gods, she was pleased with what I'd chosen, with the exception of some of the times. And I said, Mom, it was amazing what wasn't available this morning! I just booked what they had! And she said, well, let's go check now.

And you know what?

Between 330 - 430, Mom and I were online checking out the situation and tweaking the ADRS.

And it was much more a-ha then d'oh or ri-ight. As a matter of fact, I was starting to feel better.

And now that you've suffered through my little rant, I thank you.

Here are the results as they stand.

Tuesday, September 29, 5:30 pm, Nine Dragons

Wednesday, September 30, 11:45 am, The Crystal Palace

Thursday, October 1, 2:15 pm, The Garden View Lounge Tea

Friday, October 2, 12:35 pm, The Sci Fi Dine In Theater

Saturday, October 3, 5:45 pm, The Brown Derby

Sunday, October 4, 11:00 am, Chef Mickey's

So let's chat a little, shall we?

How on earth did we end up at The Crystal Palace? Why, I'll tell you. Nothing else was available for our party size in the Magic Kingdom or its resort area! And when I say nothing, I mean, nothing that I could conceivably think of taking everyone to. I have a lot of people to contend with, and I need to think on my feet. And when Chef Mickey's wasn't available, I had a near panic attack. And then I tried Ohana's, and no dice. I was worried.

But it must be fate. Because quite a while ago, I'd said, when I turn thirty, I want to eat at the Crystal Palace with Pooh and Friends. It'll soften the blow. After we had a rough experience there last year (just because DS had a bad day), I really didn't want to go back.

Guess what?

We are. :rotfl2:

What to hear something even funnier?

Mom said, well, if you want to try for Ohana's for dinner, you could keep trying. I know you were really looking forward to it.

:scared1::scared1::scared1:

Bless her. I think it finally sunk in. :thumbsup2 Not that it matters, because there's nary an ADR to be found. :lmao:

I'd dabbled with the idea of leaving the MNSSHP day (Thursday) completely open. With no ADRs.

Want to guess who had a panic attack over that? Yeah. It wasn't me.

It was my DH! :eek:

"But...but...you have to have a back up."

:scratchin

Hmmm....

Well, if I have to have a back up, it's going to be something I want to do. So, tea it is. I believe they open at two, and we were able to get the two fifteen ressie. I love tea at the Garden View Lounge. Mom was a little surprised when I told her I made the ressie for everyone, not just us girls. And yes, you may feel free to call me crazy for wanting to take the menfolk, but I think we'll have a great time. They have a "tea" specifically for kids, and my son is so much a grazing type of kid, I know he'll love the little sandwiches, pastries, fresh strawberries with cream. I think this is a great way to have a nice meal before the halloween party, and since we'll be at the Grand Flo, it'll be so easy to head on over early.

All part of my master plan, folks.

This is a family that loves to run late. ;)

Now, we all know I wanted to eat at Sci Fi for my DS, so I was excited to get that ressie with no issue. Now this will just be me, DH, DS, and my FIL. Mom and Nana have opted to have lunch at the Brown Derby that day, and that evening, they'll be going to dinner in France. Most likely, we'll spend the morning at DHS together, and then split for the rest of the day. There's a lot of things the boys want to do (LMA, Indy) that Mom and Nana aren't into.

I think this is great. It's mid trip, it gives us a little break from each other, it will be a really good thing. :thumbsup2

Our next ressie is on the last full day, and that's my official birthday dinner at The Brown Derby. I'm solid on this ADR. It's not going to change. It's one of the only places I know I can eat and it won't make me sick. Long story short, it's a winner! And Mom and Nana have a favorite waiter here, who I met in December, so I'm really hoping we can have him as our server.

And our last day, dear friends?

It's the ONLY day I could get a ressie at Chef Mickey's. And I have to tell you, this is a must do for my family. We love breakfast here (11:00 am is still breakfast) and since we don't need to be picked up to go to the airport until 3:15 pm, we'll have plenty of time to wake up early, head to the MK and take in a little bit before our breakfast that will really feel like an early lunch. It's a great last meal to have on our trip, and if we have enough time we can wish the MK one last goodbye. Sniff, sniff. I loathe talking about departure day.

So there it stands. It's not so terrible, considering I really did get most everything we wanted, just not necessarily when we wanted it. But that's the way the cookie crumbles for this trip and if it comes to not doing something or being flexible, dang it, I'm going to be flexible.

Now, I'm still pining for Ohana's. I'll admit it. I keep looking to see if I can score a ressie for Friday, the night Mom and Nana are having dinner in France.

I'll keep checking.

Can't hurt, right? ;)

[If U Had Wings]

TK, I can't remember, did your dates fall in the free dining time this year? I've been seeing on the boards that lots of people were having difficulties with ADRs this year.

It looks like you got a lot of good stuff, even if it wasn't exactly when and what you wanted. Definitely keep trying for the Ohana, you never know. Especially when you get to near the 45 days out point. Lots of people cancel then since final payment is due on packages.

I can't wait to hear about the tea room. Right now it's a maybe on my list.

[ILuvCrush]

We're going to be having tea with you!!! Our time is 2pm:lmao:

Paula

[MegansMom]

Should we be concerned right now about the complete and utter lack of ADRs???? Has September suddenly become a busy time to go???? Or is it that Free Dining just lures more of the lower crowds that are there to eat in the restaurants since it is free?????? I am sorry you also had difficulties getting what you were hoping for, but I must say, I think it all worked out well for you in the end!!!! I will keep my fingers crossed for Ohanas!!!!!

[jenjolt]

Oh I'm sorry for your hairy experiences this morning but I'm so glad to hear you are happy with your ADRs...btw as it turns out (and as Paula has mentioned) we won't have to wait until MNSSHP to meet you, we'll be having tea with you LOL...C, P, and I will be there after our pedicures LOL!!! How is that for fate LOL!!!!!!

I'll be crossing my fingers that you get that Ohana for dinner!!!

[eandesmom]

Just to weigh in on the keep on trying. I didn't book ANY of my ADR's until after the 45 day mark, when we'd paid. I didn't plan restaurants until then (or even look at menu's....gasp..(being convinced sports would change our plans or the number of guests in our party...I didn't want to jinx it!)

In fact, they were all at the 40 day mark. During President's week. Ugly ugly crowd weeks, it was packed! With the exception of Le Cellier, we got everything we wanted. Granted. We have older kids, we eat later and thanks to changing times we missed fireworks but...hey...we got to eat where we wanted.

Oh wait, that's probably not really helping is it :rotfl2: well maybe a little.

Sorry. It's a good list, keep trying. Tweaking is a GOOD thing!

[All7OfUs]

Here are the results as they stand.

Tuesday, September 29, 5:30 pm, Nine Dragons

Wednesday, September 30, 11:45 am, The Crystal Palace

Thursday, October 1, 2:15 pm, The Garden View Lounge Tea

Friday, October 2, 12:35 pm, The Sci Fi Dine In Theater

Saturday, October 3, 5:45 pm, The Brown Derby

Sunday, October 4, 11:00 am, Chef Mickey's

So let's chat a little, shall we?



Yes, let's!

I think these look fabulous. The times are good, and it seems things (mostly) worked out the way you wanted them to. Even though Chef's is later than you had hoped, you're right it will give you more time to sleep in and take a leisurely stroll over there.

I'll encourage you to keep trying for O'Hanas also. You never know...

I think going into Sci-Fi will be a nice break at 12:30. We were bakin' hot at DHS, and that place was a nice break. The milkshakes probably helped too. ;)

[MRYPPNS]

Oh TK I feel your pain. My window opened this morning....can you believe The Plaza was booked solid for dinner? The Plaza!

[TarzansKat]

TK, I can't remember, did your dates fall in the free dining time this year? I've been seeing on the boards that lots of people were having difficulties with ADRs this year.

We've gone during free dining for several years now. :goodvibes


It looks like you got a lot of good stuff, even if it wasn't exactly when and what you wanted. Definitely keep trying for the Ohana, you never know. Especially when you get to near the 45 days out point. Lots of people cancel then since final payment is due on packages.

I can't wait to hear about the tea room. Right now it's a maybe on my list.

I really did get everything we wanted, pretty much. I can't complain.

Now that I've had twenty four hours to relax about it, I can't complain. :thumbsup2

We're going to be having tea with you!!! Our time is 2pm:lmao:

Paula

Hot HOLY TEA, BATMAN!!!!

I'm so excited!!!! :yay: I'll post some more down where Jen responded.

Should we be concerned right now about the complete and utter lack of ADRs???? Has September suddenly become a busy time to go???? Or is it that Free Dining just lures more of the lower crowds that are there to eat in the restaurants since it is free?????? I am sorry you also had difficulties getting what you were hoping for, but I must say, I think it all worked out well for you in the end!!!! I will keep my fingers crossed for Ohanas!!!!!

You know what, I'm not worried about it. I honestly believe it's the new online system and the ability that people have to book multiple ADRs around the same time. Not a criticism, it was something I was doing in the morning until I could work out a good schedule. When I was done, I cancelled the extraneous ones. If people are holding onto those, that could create a limited availability.

For example, in the am, there was nothing for a party of seven at the Brown Derby, except at 500pm. When Mom and I went on later in the day, I had my pick of two other times. You know?

Oh I'm sorry for your hairy experiences this morning but I'm so glad to hear you are happy with your ADRs...btw as it turns out (and as Paula has mentioned) we won't have to wait until MNSSHP to meet you, we'll be having tea with you LOL...C, P, and I will be there after our pedicures LOL!!! How is that for fate LOL!!!!!!

I seriously can't believe it!

Just so you all know, a little tidbit about my son. Now, I will be over the dang moon to meet you all. But my four year old suffers from stranger anxiety. We're never sure if it's going to happen, it depends on his mood, and the adult. For example, when he met Tink for the first time, he took to her immediately. But sometimes, even at family gatherings, with people he knows, he's very, very shy.

I guess my long convoluted point is, I'll come to you. :lmao: Although I'll be happy to do introductions all around. Perhaps we could even chat a little before tea if you're done with your pedis. Sitting in the GF lobby and meeting would be quite nice!


I'll be crossing my fingers that you get that Ohana for dinner!!!

I don't have my heart set on it, but it would be nice. :thumbsup2

Just to weigh in on the keep on trying. I didn't book ANY of my ADR's until after the 45 day mark, when we'd paid. I didn't plan restaurants until then (or even look at menu's....gasp..(being convinced sports would change our plans or the number of guests in our party...I didn't want to jinx it!)

In fact, they were all at the 40 day mark. During President's week. Ugly ugly crowd weeks, it was packed! With the exception of Le Cellier, we got everything we wanted. Granted. We have older kids, we eat later and thanks to changing times we missed fireworks but...hey...we got to eat where we wanted.

Oh wait, that's probably not really helping is it :rotfl2: well maybe a little.

Sorry. It's a good list, keep trying. Tweaking is a GOOD thing!

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

You make me laugh, hon. But the premise of your advice is good. People will change their plans, and with the online system, I'm sure it will pay to be persistent.

Yes, let's!

I think these look fabulous. The times are good, and it seems things (mostly) worked out the way you wanted them to. Even though Chef's is later than you had hoped, you're right it will give you more time to sleep in and take a leisurely stroll over there.

You're right. I did get pretty much everything. I just felt so weird yesterday between lack of sleep and not knowing if what I was picking as a substitue was good, not knowing if times were good. I should have called my mother, but I didn't want to wake her.


I'll encourage you to keep trying for O'Hanas also. You never know...

I think going into Sci-Fi will be a nice break at 12:30. We were bakin' hot at DHS, and that place was a nice break. The milkshakes probably helped too. ;)

You're right, DHS can get real hot. It will be a nice break.

Oh TK I feel your pain. My window opened this morning....can you believe The Plaza was booked solid for dinner? The Plaza!

The Plaza???? Seriously????

And hey. :scratchin If your booking window opened today, does that mean I get to met you? ;)

[2xcited2sleep]

TK (& Heidi too)- keep checking back. We've had some good luck with that. People seem to be changing things all the time. I was thinking that TK's party size had something to do with it but if Heidi is having trouble too...? :confused3 That weekend of 10/3 is the first weekend of Food and Wine so maybe that is the issue? I hope it doesn't mean the crowds will be bad! :scared1:

Can't wait to see you at tea!

Looking forward to seeing your t shirt results.

And hurrah for your mom understanding the importance of O'Hana! :)

[MRYPPNS]

Perhaps we could even chat a little before tea if you're done with your pedis. Sitting in the GF lobby and meeting would be quite nice!

Save a chair for me in the GF lobby :)


The Plaza???? Seriously????

Seriously who would have thunk it? ....but I guess that means that I will have the counter service restaurants to myself.....Pecos Bill's topping bar here I come!!!!

And hey. :scratchin If your booking window opened today, does that mean I get to met you? ;)
Yes it does....

TK (& Heidi too)- keep checking back. We've had some good luck with that. People seem to be changing things all the time. I was thinking that TK's party size had something to do with it but if Heidi is having trouble too...? :confused3 That weekend of 10/3 is the first weekend of Food and Wine so maybe that is the issue? I hope it doesn't mean the crowds will be bad! :scared1:



I think part of it for me was that my window opens up for a mid week vacation. So everyone that is getting there the 10 days prior can book for the beginning of my window before I can...thankfully I only wanted 2 ADR's.

There aren't many "tables" in the system for parties of 1 or 2 so that doesn't help either. I think 3-4 people is the magic number for ADR's.

From what I have read about years past is that the parks aren't busy, it's just that everyone that is there is staying on property and eating sitting down meals. The cheaper basic rooms are slim pickin's right now.....I know that first hand....I'm at All Star Music :scared1: (I actually don't care that much)

[TarzansKat]

Save a chair for me in the GF lobby :)

Will do!


Seriously who would have thunk it? ....but I guess that means that I will have the counter service restaurants to myself.....Pecos Bill's topping bar here I come!!!!

Counter service places can be busier, but honestly, since you're by yourself, I don't think you'll have any issues. You always have the option of eating at off times as well.


I think part of it for me was that my window opens up for a mid week vacation. So everyone that is getting there the 10 days prior can book for the beginning of my window before I can...thankfully I only wanted 2 ADR's.

There aren't many "tables" in the system for parties of 1 or 2 so that doesn't help either. I think 3-4 people is the magic number for ADR's.

I think 3-4 is as well, because I had no issue for my trip last year. And I actually had a 4 person ressie for Ohana's for this trip, and I cancelled it. Yes, I regret it. It was a weird morning. :lmao:

But, I agree with you. Everyone else who has the 10 day window must have booked up Chef Mickey's and Ohana's for my first two days before I even had a chance.

[Charleston Princess]

After reading your post, I think I am going to hate the new online system and what it is doing to the availability of reservations! :headache:

I am glad that with a bit of tweaking you were able to get quite a few of the ones that you wanted. I do hope you are able to get Ohana's at some point as well! :goodvibes

[TarzansKat]

TK (& Heidi too)- keep checking back. We've had some good luck with that. People seem to be changing things all the time. I was thinking that TK's party size had something to do with it but if Heidi is having trouble too...? :confused3 That weekend of 10/3 is the first weekend of Food and Wine so maybe that is the issue? I hope it doesn't mean the crowds will be bad! :scared1:

Can't wait to see you at tea!

Looking forward to seeing your t shirt results.

And hurrah for your mom understanding the importance of O'Hana! :)

See, I really thought it was party size as well, but you're right, with Heidi having trouble? :confused3

I'll keep checking back though! And I can't wait to meet you, too. :goodvibes

After reading your post, I think I am going to hate the new online system and what it is doing to the availability of reservations! :headache:

The benefit of it is that I'm able to check multiple times a day to see if Ohana's opens up, which would be such a pain if I were calling. So it has its good points.


I am glad that with a bit of tweaking you were able to get quite a few of the ones that you wanted. I do hope you are able to get Ohana's at some point as well! :goodvibes

I'm so glad we got more liveable times as well.

[ILuvCrush]

I had a tougher time getting the ADRs I wanted on my solo trip than i ever did with the family:confused3

I think that 'table for one' has a rather small availablity!!

TK I understand about your DS... mine was the same way. Of course now he's 14.... but in many ways he's still the same little boy and still goes out of his way to avoid people he doesn't know/know well ..... it's the sole reason I regret not putting him in daycare 1-2 days a week. He was home with me or DH all the time and we even only saw family on major holidays because we were out of state. I think he had a natural tendancy toward being introverted...and we made it worse:sad2: by not 'socializing' him more when he was little. By the time kindergarten rolled around he had a real hard time getting acclimated. He does much better now... but still will chose to hang out alone in his room for weeks at a time...rather than with a friend:confused3


Paula

[jmamom]

TK, you are not alone in your ADR angst. I got to have IPO make my ADR's and even they couldn't get everything when I wanted it. It was a long day of switching things around and emailing back and forth. I was still switching things the next day. BUT, in the end, we got everything we really wanted, just took a little flexibility on my part (not my best trait).
I say keep trying for 'Ohana - I know I had lots of double bookings that I ended up canceling.
Aren't you glad its over??:faint:

[If U Had Wings]

Oh TK I feel your pain. My window opened this morning....can you believe The Plaza was booked solid for dinner? The Plaza!


That is just crazy! :eek: I don't think I've ever heard of the Plaza booking up that fast.

[TarzansKat]

I had a tougher time getting the ADRs I wanted on my solo trip than i ever did with the family:confused3

I think that 'table for one' has a rather small availablity!!

That frustrates me, on your behalf. Solo dining shouldn't be difficult, but I guess what we're finding right now is that everyone's having a tough time booking! Weird. :confused3


TK I understand about your DS... mine was the same way. Of course now he's 14.... but in many ways he's still the same little boy and still goes out of his way to avoid people he doesn't know/know well ..... it's the sole reason I regret not putting him in daycare 1-2 days a week. He was home with me or DH all the time and we even only saw family on major holidays because we were out of state. I think he had a natural tendancy toward being introverted...and we made it worse:sad2: by not 'socializing' him more when he was little. By the time kindergarten rolled around he had a real hard time getting acclimated. He does much better now... but still will chose to hang out alone in his room for weeks at a time...rather than with a friend:confused3


Paula

Oh, thank you for being so understanding! And don't worry about how you raised him, my goodness. We all do the best we can. I'm hard on myself, though, I should take my own advice. But what you're talking about right now is one of the reasons I really felt my son needed to be in this preschool 2 days a week and with my parents one. He still gets family time, home time, and structured school time with his friends. I'm hoping I'm giving him a good balance, and it's definitely making my life a lot saner in the process.

And something nice, too. I'm actually enjoying my Wednesdays with my mom more. :goodvibes

TK, you are not alone in your ADR angst. I got to have IPO make my ADR's and even they couldn't get everything when I wanted it. It was a long day of switching things around and emailing back and forth. I was still switching things the next day. BUT, in the end, we got everything we really wanted, just took a little flexibility on my part (not my best trait).
I say keep trying for 'Ohana - I know I had lots of double bookings that I ended up canceling.
Aren't you glad its over??:faint:

Yes, I'm so not used to having to be flexible, and my high strung OCD planner has a mini hissy. :lmao:

I am SO glad it's over. Last night I went to bed at nine thirty and slept SOLID until this morning. I haven't had that in weeks. It was nice. :cloud9:

[creativeamanda]

I think sometimes your party size has a great deal to do with everything--it was always hard to get reservations for a party of 5. When I walk into most restaurants, I see lots of tables for 4.

[TarzansKat]

Otherwise known as TK releases her cooped up inner artist and has lots of fun with color. :lmao: I felt like a kid in a candy store making these. There's a round one and a round two, but here's the whole grouping first.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-152-2-1.jpg

There are three from round one, in which we didn't really saturate the shirts with dye, and there's quite a bit of white left. Also, you'll note that my tank is 100% cotton, and DH and DS' shirts are a poly blend, and the colors on their shirts is less vibrant because of that. I highly recommend if you're going to do this, spring for an all cotton shirt. They're easy enough to find. Now, on DS and my tank, the Mickey heads didn't come out so great. So I went back in with bleach and a paint brush and tried to outline them. What I didn't realize is that you only really need a little bit of bleach, and so we got some interesting effects.

Here's the front and back of DS' first shirt.
http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-01.jpghttp://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-02.jpg

And here's what it looked like after I redefined the Mickey head. I've sent these images to my mom, and this is is her favorite shirt of the whole bunch. I think it's adorable, and DS LOVES it! Both of them actually, which is great.
http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-17.jpg
Not perfect, but not too shabby, right? I can't tell you how much my inner perfectionist is dying a little inside with these shirts. :lmao: See, I love the tie dye, the vibrant color, the messiness of it all. But I wanted those Mickey heads to be perfect. They're not. And such is life.

Here's my first shirt front and back.
http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-05.jpghttp://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-06.jpg

And after I redefined the Mickey head. A little too much, but hey, it's a learning process. That's what I keep telling myself, anyway.
http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-20.jpg

Here's DH's. He's opted to leave his alone, and I'm not pushing. Even though it kills me. It's his shirt. :lmao:
http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-03.jpghttp://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-04.jpg

Now after we had this set, we had leftover dye. And it needs to be used up within two weeks. Yeah. That didn't last long. :rolleyes1 I grabbed the only other white tank I had and an old 100% cotton undershirt of DS' and went to town.

Here's the results of round two.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-19.jpg
I really feel like I need to get at this, but I'm looking for one of those bleach pens. I find a Tide to Go pen at Walmart, but I don't think that's going to cut it. It doesn't say bleach on it. I really want the fine point, I'm afraid if I try to go at this with a paint brush it'll be way too much white. I'm not sure. Maybe I'll try. If I'm brave. :rolleyes1

And here's DS' shirt.
http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-18.jpg
I love, love, love the saturation of color on this one. On both mine and his in the secound round. The key to this level of color is using a lot of dye. Basically, when you squeeze it, you make sure you get it into the folds, and you want the dye to be literally dripping off of the shirt. Now, I have no idea why the Mickey heads on both my tanks have white blotches. I dyed them both thoroughly. I don't know if it's the fabric, or the way I'm rinsing them at the end, or maybe even when they are in the washing machine. :confused3 I'll definitely be posting these on the tie dye thread though, and see if anyone can give me any suggestions. If any of you are even considering this, that's a very supportive and fun group over there, I highly recommend taking a look at it. I posted the link not to long ago, I think. :thumbsup2

So there you have it.

Upon which, Mom said...you can make me one of those if I can find a white t-shirt I like. :eek: I so did this :yay: but I kept it cool. On the down low. I'm excited! More dye! More shirts! More matching.

I know I could get my FIL to wear one. Next I just have to wear down Nana and my dad.

Yeah.

Ri-ight. ;)

And on as side note...now I really feel like we belong at Pop Century. :thumbsup2

[MRYPPNS]

Very Cool. I have a Clorox bleach pen...I'll be right over with it (hehe)

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, what a great set of shirts! You are going to be so cute in your headless shots on the TR! :laughing:

[TarzansKat]

Very Cool.
Thanks!


I have a Clorox bleach pen...I'll be right over with it (hehe)

Oh, yeah! :lmao: Forget that whole night time routine with the kiddos, just hop on down. :thumbsup2

Oh, what a great set of shirts! You are going to be so cute in your headless shots on the TR! :laughing:

Thanks, hon. I totally was thinking too...man...I didn't take any headless shots of me modeling these!

[creativeamanda]

Those are the best tie dye shirts I have ever seen!

[TarzansKat]

Those are the best tie dye shirts I have ever seen!

:eek:

:love:

BLESS YOU!!!!

My goodness, I was not expecting that wonderful compliment. Perhaps I'm being too hard on myself. :confused3

[creativeamanda]

:eek:

:love:

BLESS YOU!!!!

My goodness, I was not expecting that wonderful compliment. Perhaps I'm being too hard on myself. :confused3

Anything with a Mickey Head shape on it, in my opinion, looks Tigger-ific!

[TarzansKat]

Anything with a Mickey Head shape on it, in my opinion, looks Tigger-ific!

You're too kind, my dear, too kind.

[If U Had Wings]

The shirts came out great TK! You are being way too hard on yourself. I love the blue for the Mickey heads. They are wonderful!

[maroo]

Ok...

First...I can not find my post about your ADRs?? Did I overlook it?

I can't remember what all I said. I know I was stunned that everything was taken. You think it is Free Dining stuff? Is it the online system?

I am glad you got most of what you wanted. Hopefully you can get Ohana's, too!!



Now...about those shirts. I only have one comment/question. How much do they cost? I want to buy one. ::yes::

[All7OfUs]

maroo,

We could hire her to make some for us- OR she could give you a tye-die tutorial, and you could make some for us. :yay: Maybe you could bribe her with some of that fun stuff you got the other day?

TK? What do you say? Want to go into business?? They really ARE THAT good!

[TarzansKat]

The shirts came out great TK! You are being way too hard on yourself. I love the blue for the Mickey heads. They are wonderful!

It's my inner perfectionist coming out. She's usually hidden deep inside, but every now and then she rears her ugly head.

Like with Disney ADRs and tie dye Mickey shirts.

:scratchin Apparently, she's trip related. :lmao:

Ok...

First...I can not find my post about your ADRs?? Did I overlook it?

I can't remember what all I said. I know I was stunned that everything was taken. You think it is Free Dining stuff? Is it the online system?

I am glad you got most of what you wanted. Hopefully you can get Ohana's, too!!

Maroo, I don't know, because I'm having a weird week, but I don't remember if you posted about the dining. Hmmm...

Anyway! I attribute it to the new online system and the 90 day booking window. My past ones were 180, and even when I had the 90 day window with Tink, I called and it wasn't an issue. Now she and I weren't making a full week worth of ressies, but still. We went over Memorial Day weekend during Flower and Garden Festival. I mean, I expected us to have trouble and we didn't. I'm wondering if people have booked multiple ADRs for similar times and are trying to decide what to keep. Now, I know that I'm picking some popular restaurants, too, so I'm sure that plays into it.

But I'm not worried. We got almost everything we wanted, and one of my ressies, part of our party wasn't even interested in, so no big deal.


Now...about those shirts. I only have one comment/question. How much do they cost? I want to buy one. ::yes::

Oh, for pete's sake. :blush:

maroo,

We could hire her to make some for us- OR she could give you a tye-die tutorial, and you could make some for us. :yay: Maybe you could bribe her with some of that fun stuff you got the other day?

TK? What do you say? Want to go into business?? They really ARE THAT good!

OMG, you're both really serious! Wow. I would love to make them for you, and I wouldn't even know what to charge. I'll have to PM you guys. :thumbsup2

[jenjolt]

OOOH I love those Tye died shirts...I wonder if I sent you a shirt if you would make me one LOL (just kidding of course) however I'm not doing any tye dye that makes me all types of nervous!!!

I'm glad your mom really liked that and so did you DS that is fantastic!!!

[TarzansKat]

OOOH I love those Tye died shirts...I wonder if I sent you a shirt if you would make me one LOL (just kidding of course) however I'm not doing any tye dye that makes me all types of nervous!!!

You don't need to be kidding, hon. If you sent me one, I would make it for you. Maroo, All7OfUS, and I are chatting about my making some for them as well. :thumbsup2


I'm glad your mom really liked that and so did you DS that is fantastic!!!

I see more shirts in my future. ;)

[TarzansKat]

Hey everyone! I wanted to give you a mini update on the shirts. I went ahead and used a small acrylic brush and minimal bleach to emphasize the Mickey heads on mine and DS' second round. Well, it came out great! I threw them in the wash, and they're hanging to dry, so I'll take pictures and have them posted tomorrow, hopefully. :thumbsup2

[creativeamanda]

I can't wait to see them!

[Charleston Princess]

Can't wait to see the new and improved shirts!!!

[2xcited2sleep]

You don't need to be kidding, hon. If you sent me one, I would make it for you. Maroo, All7OfUS, and I are chatting about my making some for them as well. :thumbsup2



I see more shirts in my future. ;)

You seriously shouldn't kid. Because I'll have shirts in the mail to you before you know it! :upsidedow

[TarzansKat]

It was called to my attention (thanks, Maroo!) that this is my 7,000th post.

And to make it a good one.

I consider this to be a good one. ;)

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/Jack38-1.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/birthday08.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/jack19-4.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/jack44-1.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/untitled-2.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/jack22-3.jpg

and last but not least...

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/TinkBDay-2.jpg

Heh heh.

There you have it. 7 pictures of Jack for my 7,000th post.

I sense a new tradition starting.

Pirate. pirate:

[TarzansKat]

I can't wait to see them!

Can't wait to see the new and improved shirts!!!

You seriously shouldn't kid. Because I'll have shirts in the mail to you before you know it! :upsidedow

I'll be posting them shortly.

And 2xcited, at this rate, I should start a side business. So far, I've got three people interested in shirts. Care to be number four? :goodvibes

[TarzansKat]

Okay. Here's round two before and after.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-19.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0263-1.jpg

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/July09-18.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0264-2.jpg

It's still a learning process for me, but I think they look pretty good. There are some splotches of white where I wouldn't like them, but hey. Not bad for the second round I think. :thumbsup2

[MRYPPNS]

I really like the outline of the Mickey head in bleach.....makes it POP out :thumbsup2

[TarzansKat]

I really like the outline of the Mickey head in bleach.....makes it POP out :thumbsup2

Was that a little reference to my resort, my dear? ;)

[eandesmom]

#4! I'll be # 4 :)

They are adorable TK, really really cute! I think I'm going to have to rethink doing some kind of matching shirt for our trip next year they are that cute.

I'm crafty....but tie dye freaks me out for some reason. I love them! And the 7 pictures of Jack.

[TarzansKat]

#4! I'll be # 4 :)

They are adorable TK, really really cute! I think I'm going to have to rethink doing some kind of matching shirt for our trip next year they are that cute.

I'm crafty....but tie dye freaks me out for some reason. I love them! And the 7 pictures of Jack.

Oh my goodness, look at you all line up! :lmao:

I really do like that this is matching, but different. It's virtually impossible to create the same shirt, but the color of the Mickey heads gives it some unity.

And who doesn't love 7 pictures of Jack?;)

[2xcited2sleep]

And 2xcited, at this rate, I should start a side business. So far, I've got three people interested in shirts. Care to be number four? :goodvibes

I just might. And you could totally start a side business. I think there is one guy on ebay who does it but no reason you couldn't get on there too!

They turned out great. They look so cute! I can see the pictures now - all of you in your matching shirts. :thumbsup2 You should go ahead and buy the picture frame now!

[maroo]

Ok...

I think the DIS gods can take a chill pill a minute. :rotfl: Don't read this post...DIS gods. :rolleyes1

You should totally start a business. So...PM me and we can get you set up on eBay! :) Do you take Pay Pal? ;)

Just kidding. :upsidedow (actually I am not, but maybe that will please the DIS gods).

Then, of course, you would not be able to actually advertise your business (that currently does not exist) here on the DIS, of course. Then the DIS gods would really get upset with you and may send you to DIS Neverland. Pirate.

Now...about that 7000th post!!! Woah! What a great way to start the day!

Almost as good as getting a pin for Free Dining in December. ;)

[TarzansKat]

Hey, everyone!

I hope you're all ready to read and comment. I'm toying with the idea of adding 2 more nights to our vacation.

Here's the kicker.

It would just be for the three of us. It would enable us to have some alone family time, and a longer vacation is always better in my book.

I have a HUGE credit with Southwest, and changing our flights won't even put a dent in it. I already had my FIL's changed to a separate confirmation number, so I can change just the three of us, and his will remain in tact.

I've called, and there isn't any availability at Pop for free dining for the whole time. So I'm thinking of tacking on 2 nights of a room only ressie, even if we don't have tickets for that time. I could think of so many things that we could do as a family to relax and just enjoy being there, and what a great way to start the trip. There are so many things we never have time do, like go to DisneyQuest (which is like heaven for my DH), or do a water park. DS is definitely old enough for a water park, and I would totally be down for buying those tickets separately.

I think this could be a really good thing, and I'm really excited.

My room only options right now are this. I can book us in a standard room at Pop for the two nights for $185. Or, for $32 more, I can book us at Coronado Springs for $216 with that special 35% off rate they have right now. I believe that's the only moderate available for those dates, but I'll check. To my mind, staying at a mod, and having those pools for $32 more is probably a good thing. We could can the water park idea and just have a total resort day, enjoying the pool, and then do Downtown Disney and DisneyQuest the following day. I participate in an online site that gives me points for shopping through them, so I could probably have more than enough to cover at least part of a dinner at Rainforest or the new T Rex restaurant.

Just one question for those of you who have done it. How hard is it to transport bags from one resort to another?

OMG, the more I talk about this, the more exciting it is.

Someone stop me, seriously.

Hold me back...

and weigh in. :thumbsup2

[Charleston Princess]

7 pictures of Jack really made your 7,000 post delectable. ;)

The shirts are coming along great!

So, if you added on two more nights, what would your dates be then?

[2xcited2sleep]

Oh, SO exciting! I totally agree, a longer vacation is always better and I think it will be nice for you three to have some "alone time" before the craziness (fabulous craziness) of the larger group sets in.

I switched resorts in Dec - from Pop to AKL. SUPER easy. You have to bring your bags to the bell station. They put a tag on it for the resort you're going to and you're done. Mine made it there with no problem. Think I dropped them off ~9am and they were at the resort by 1pm. I did have to call down to the bell station at the new resort to find out if they were there. They were not delivered to the room ala Magical Express.

I agree with your thinking on Coronado. It seems like a fun resort. Do you read any of Alan Renfroes' TRs? He loves it there and has some great pics.

Isn't Disney planning fun! :yay:

[TarzansKat]

7 pictures of Jack really made your 7,000 post delectable. ;)

Delectable is exactly the right word.


The shirts are coming along great!

Thanks!


So, if you added on two more nights, what would your dates be then?

Sunday, September 27 - Sunday, October 4

You know what it is, too? I have no idea when we'll be able to go again. With my wanting to go to school and DS starting kindergarten in 2010, it's going to be hard if not impossible to plan a trip to the World.

I want to pack the most into this one that I can! :lmao:

Oh, SO exciting! I totally agree, a longer vacation is always better and I think it will be nice for you three to have some "alone time" before the craziness (fabulous craziness) of the larger group sets in.

I think it would be awesome.

I've complained for so long about not being able to go and have no plans.

This would be the perfect opportunity.:thumbsup2


I switched resorts in Dec - from Pop to AKL. SUPER easy. You have to bring your bags to the bell station. They put a tag on it for the resort you're going to and you're done. Mine made it there with no problem. Think I dropped them off ~9am and they were at the resort by 1pm. I did have to call down to the bell station at the new resort to find out if they were there. They were not delivered to the room ala Magical Express.

Oh, thank you so much! That's very good to know.


I agree with your thinking on Coronado. It seems like a fun resort. Do you read any of Alan Renfroes' TRs? He loves it there and has some great pics.

Isn't Disney planning fun! :yay:

Are you referring to Buzz2001? Is that his DIS name, or something like that? I think of him as the guy who loves Coronado. :lmao:

I just looked at pics on Allears of the Dig Site and the pool and OMG, I know DS would love it.

Now I'm pricing deluxes for ha has. ;)

[All7OfUs]

Love your idea of CSR! I had considered that one for our trip. Oopsie, did I just drop a little hint? Seriously, for that small of a price difference, go for the mod!! Trust me, this choice is an easy one!!

Like someone else said, I don't think its an issue at all to change resorts. THey deal with the bags, you deal with having fun in your new shirts.:hippie:

Will you make new ones for a diff. resort to help you feel more at home?

[TarzansKat]

Love your idea of CSR! I had considered that one for our trip. Oopsie, did I just drop a little hint? Seriously, for that small of a price difference, go for the mod!! Trust me, this choice is an easy one!!


A little tidbit for you all. I've never stayed there.

And it's my unspoken mission to stay at all the resorts at least once. I'm really, really close, but I've definitely wanted to try this one. And doing it for two days, if it feels large and sprawling, it probably won't bother us, because we'll be switching to Pop, you know?


Like someone else said, I don't think its an issue at all to change resorts. THey deal with the bags, you deal with having fun in your new shirts.:hippie:

Well, it's good to know it's so easy. I'm really not for unpacking and re-packing, but I could make it simple and just do the outfits for two days and leave the rest in the suitcases.


Will you make new ones for a diff. resort to help you feel more at home?

ENABLER! :rolleyes1 I hadn't even thought of it until you mentioned it. Would those be earth tones? :lmao:

[jenjolt]

OOH...everyone loves to get on and admire Jack!! So THANK YOU!!!

And YAY to contemplating adding 2 days (although me thinks you are more sold on it and its going to happen...pirate:)

I think some family time would be great and you would be able to have some memories just of you and your DH and DS!!!!!

I'm sure you'll let us know soon what you decide!

[TarzansKat]

OOH...everyone loves to get on and admire Jack!! So THANK YOU!!!

A hearty "you're welcome."


And YAY to contemplating adding 2 days (although me thinks you are more sold on it and its going to happen...pirate:)

I think some family time would be great and you would be able to have some memories just of you and your DH and DS!!!!!

I'm sure you'll let us know soon what you decide!

I'm in the process of figuring it all out as we speak. I will definitely keep you all posted. :thumbsup2

[MRYPPNS]

Book the mod....CSR or CBR...don't buy park tickets. That would be my advice. Have you ever rented a boat for Seven Sea Lagoon? It is soooo much fun and relaxing. And I think Typhoon Lagoon would be awesome for DS.

[TarzansKat]

Book the mod....CSR or CBR...don't buy park tickets. That would be my advice. Have you ever rented a boat for Seven Sea Lagoon? It is soooo much fun and relaxing. And I think Typhoon Lagoon would be awesome for DS.

I have never rented a boat actually, that could be a lot of fun. I would totally think of ZZUB.

I know my DH has been dying to DisneyQuest...we haven't been in years, and I'm sure my DS would be in heaven with all the video games. Plus it would be easy to sneak out and do some shopping while they're in there. ;)

And I haven't been to Typhoon Lagoon since I was ten! I think I was ten. :scratchin Oh my god.

I just realized that means I haven't been in almost twenty years. Is Typhoon Lagoon that old? Am I confusing myself?

Scary.

Very scary. :scared1:

[TarzansKat]

Pirate. pirate:

So my trip binder needs a major overhaul. :lmao:

Now that I have completely thrown everything out of whack. My flights. My dates. My hotels. Oh, yes, because there are two now. :lmao:

For those of you who weren't witness to my little plea for help this morning, here are the basics.

I got to thinking. We all know how bad that is. Especially when you suffer from Disney trip itch. Or itches, as the case may be. There are a lot of factors that went into this decision, and it really started with my copious Southwest credits.

There were a lot. Because our flights went down so much, I had enough for a round trip ticket for one person. That's a lot of money to have sitting in Southwest credits. And while it is very, very tempting to think of booking a solo trip to Disney or using those credits for another vacation, in the coming year, it's probably not going to be financially possible, or very responsible. Given that I'd like to go back to school, and given that my DS will head to kindergarten in 2010, I'm just not sure when we'll get back to the World. We may go in the summer, we may not. It really depends on how our money stands and what's going on at the time.

So I got to thinking. Why not use those credits on this trip? Why not take some of that money and fly down earlier? (Earlier flights are more expensive than what we had.) Due to DH's change in management at his work, he now gets two weeks of PTO. One is the week from Christmas to New Year's, and the other is a week of his choosing. I specifically booked our trip from Tues - Sun, not knowing when I booked bounceback that he'd have a new boss, and also trying to plan a trip that was affordable for us and everyone who's coming.

So basically, we were leaving on a Tuesday, but we'd be home all weekend. I work at the bank on Saturdays, but it's only a half day, so there's still plenty of time to get last minute things done before a trip.

Sunday and Monday at home, or Sunday and Monday in Disney?

:scratchin

Tough choice, huh? :rotfl2:

Never mind that this would give us some much needed family alone time, which I am really, really jonesin' for. In addition to all of this, I was able to find a 35% off code for Coronado Springs (a resort I've never stayed at, but have wanted to try), and I was able to use a portion of my Southwest credits on our flights.

All told, not including food or any extra adventures we may choose to add, this add on to the vacation is costing us $306.

Now ask me if I care. :rolleyes:

Honestly, DH and I have been doing unbelievably well saving money. I'm at the point now where we've got a very, very healthy emergency fund. And realizing how healthy it is today, and that we're so close to paying off his student loan and will still have money left over, well, that just put me over the edge.

6 days in Disney or 8. Pretty much a no brainer.

So I did it. This morning I got on the phone, got on the internet, and after a LONG (there was some Southwest trouble I don't want to get into, too complicated) time, it was done.

We're now booked to fly out on Sunday, September 27th on an 810am flight. We'll get in at 1110am. We're also booked on a room only ressie at the Coronado Springs resort for two nights. I'm excited to stay at this resort, and I really intend to make one of those days a resort day. Most likely arrival day, but who knows.

This is my dream, folks.

Having two days with absolutely no plans. I don't think we'll even decide until we get there. We'll eat where we want, and go where we want. Sure, we have some ideas of what we'd like to do with that time, given that we won't have the whole big crew.

Then on the 29th, we'll check out of Coronado and head over to Pop to check in. Once that's all set, because we'll be there so early, it'll be easy for us to head to a park before the family even gets in. This is so nice because there's some things at DHS that I know DH and DS would like to do that my mom has no interest in, and since we're park hopping, it'll be so easy to head there, or to any of the other parks that morning before the folks arrive.

Now to the hard part. And I'm not just talking about rearranging the whole dang trip binder. Reprinting all my spreadsheets.

Telling my mom. :eek:

I'll admit it. I was worried. I was afraid that she would take offense to us wanting to leave earlier and have some family time.

And you know what? That blessed woman surprised me. Once I explained it to her, and the things we'd like to do, and some family time for us, she was all for it. :thumbsup2

:worship::worship::worship: Thank you, Disney Travel Gods.

And yes.

I did add to the debt to be repaid. :rolleyes:

Although, I get the feeling that DH is not really upset about that. ;)

[eandesmom]

Pirate. pirate:


So I got to thinking. Why not use those credits on this trip? Why not take some of that money and fly down earlier? (Earlier flights are more expensive than what we had.) Due to DH's change in management at his work, he now gets two weeks of PTO. One is the week from Christmas to New Year's, and the other is a week of his choosing. I specifically booked our trip from Tues - Sun, not knowing when I booked bounceback that he'd have a new boss, and also trying to plan a trip that was affordable for us and everyone who's coming.

So basically, we were leaving on a Tuesday, but we'd be home all weekend. I work at the bank on Saturdays, but it's only a half day, so there's still plenty of time to get last minute things done before a trip.


Never mind that this would give us some much needed family alone time, which I am really, really jonesin' for. In addition to all of this, I was able to find a 35% off code for Coronado Springs (a resort I've never stayed at, but have wanted to try), and I was able to use a portion of my Southwest credits on our flights.

All told, not including food or any extra adventures we may choose to add, this add on to the vacation is costing us $306.

Now ask me if I care. :rolleyes:

6 days in Disney or 8. Pretty much a no brainer.

So I did it. This morning I got on the phone, got on the internet, and after a LONG (there was some Southwest trouble I don't want to get into, too complicated) time, it was done.

Telling my mom. :eek:

I'll admit it. I was worried. I was afraid that she would take offense to us wanting to leave earlier and have some family time.

And you know what? That blessed woman surprised me. Once I explained it to her, and the things we'd like to do, and some family time for us, she was all for it. :thumbsup2

:worship::worship::worship: Thank you, Disney Travel Gods.

Although, I get the feeling that DH is not really upset about that. ;)

:cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1:: whoo hoo!:cool1::cool1:

And how BRILLIANT that you are doing it before the big group. You will be rested, relaxed and ready for whatever that throws at you. I heartily approve (and am mightily jealous!).

[TarzansKat]

And how BRILLIANT that you are doing it before the big group.

I feel more sneaky than brilliant right now, but thank you for the nice compliment!


You will be rested, relaxed and ready for whatever that throws at you.

YES! I am so excited to have a vacation that's actually a vacation.

You know, where people go and they relax? :lmao:


I heartily approve (and am mightily jealous!).

Aw! :hug:

[2xcited2sleep]

Congratulations! Sounds like heaven!!

[Charleston Princess]

Hurray for two extra days at Disney! party: You will love CSR! The Dig Site pool alone makes the place a blast!

[jenjolt]

Congrats on 2 extra day!! You and your boys are going to have a terrific time!!!

[TarzansKat]

Congratulations! Sounds like heaven!!

:cloud9:

Hurray for two extra days at Disney! party: You will love CSR! The Dig Site pool alone makes the place a blast!

Thanks! I'm excited about that pool area. The deal was sealed for me when I showed DS the pictures, and he got so excited about it! I'll have to remember to bring some sandbox toys with us so he can really get dirty if he wants to. ;)

Congrats on 2 extra day!! You and your boys are going to have a terrific time!!!

We are, I'm so excited, and so glad the family's reaction was so calm. :goodvibes

[creativeamanda]

Two more days? Of course, a no-brainer! We took a short detour to CSR on our way to Blizzard Beach last week. It was a bit interesting, to say the least. Anyway, CSR looks absolutely beautiful!

[TarzansKat]

Two more days? Of course, a no-brainer! We took a short detour to CSR on our way to Blizzard Beach last week. It was a bit interesting, to say the least. Anyway, CSR looks absolutely beautiful!

I'm really excited to be staying there, even if it's just for two days. It will be nice to stay at a resort and enjoy the resort, much like Tink and I did in May. We really enjoyed staying at CBR, and now I'm looking forward to CSR! Plus, I've heard great things about the food at Pepper Market. :thumbsup2

[Normangirls]

I can't remember, and I'm too lazy to go back and check: what kind of park tickets do you have? If you have, say, 7-day tickets, it's only a few more dollars to add on more days. And the thing is, it's kind of nice to have "extra" days to burn and not feel guilty about it. Maybe you decide to spend a few hours the day you get there at the MK? No big deal.

Just a thought.

Keep on, tie-dye princess. :hippie:

[TarzansKat]

I can't remember, and I'm too lazy to go back and check: what kind of park tickets do you have? If you have, say, 7-day tickets, it's only a few more dollars to add on more days. And the thing is, it's kind of nice to have "extra" days to burn and not feel guilty about it. Maybe you decide to spend a few hours the day you get there at the MK? No big deal.

Just a thought.

The only issue with the park tickets is this. We arrive on the 27th and check into CSR with a room only reservation. When we check into Pop on the 29th, that's when we'll get our park tickets and free dining credits.

So in order for me to have tickets for the first two days, I'd have to add them to that reservation, and then bump the Pop ressie down to a one day ticket in order to retain the free dining promo. I hope I'm making sense.

I know what you mean about adding on a couple of days, and if it were a consecutive stay at one place, it would be fine. Because it's not, it would really cost me a lot more than I want to spend. The only kink in the works is that Big Bad Voodoo Daddy is playing at Epcot on the 27th, and I would love to see them. I'm just not sure that I want to hit up that park and Food and Wine Festival on opening weekend. I would think you'd have huge crowds. But, I could be wrong. Basically, either way you slice it, it's tricky.

I'd have to run numbers, but I really love the idea of doing nothing. I've wanted a trip like that for a long time, and to be able to satisfy the side of me that just wants to relax (and let my DH go to DisneyQuest, which he's been dying to do and hasn't done in years), and satisfy the inner OCD planner who had to organize the family trip, well, it's just become the perfect trip for me. Combo relaxation and planning.

I'm in heaven. :cloud9:


Keep on, tie-dye princess. :hippie:

:rotfl2:

[If U Had Wings]

Woo Hoo for the added days! I think it's an absolute wonderful idea, and perfect for a little added family togetherness for you and your pirate clan. A couple of days of relaxation at CSR will be wonderful!

and this...

It was called to my attention (thanks, Maroo!) that this is my 7,000th post.

And to make it a good one.

I consider this to be a good one. ;)

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/Jack38-1.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/birthday08.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/jack19-4.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/jack44-1.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/untitled-2.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/jack22-3.jpg

and last but not least...

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/TinkBDay-2.jpg


you are just way too good to all of us. I needed to see some Jack this morning.

[Normangirls]

I hear you. This is the first time we are planning days for relaxing (only another DISer would understand the importance of "planning" nothing).

And the pool at CSR looks absolutely beautiful. It would be very easy to while away a day watching the kids play in the pool.

Would your DS be interested in something like the campfire and movie at Fort Wilderness?

Oops, there I go again, "planning" something to do...

I can't help it.

[TarzansKat]

Woo Hoo for the added days! I think it's an absolute wonderful idea, and perfect for a little added family togetherness for you and your pirate clan. A couple of days of relaxation at CSR will be wonderful!

I'm so excited too, because I've never stayed at CSR. And given that we're leaning towards not doing a park on those days (although I still may try to score a ressie, I'm not sure), we can really see how we feel about the size of the resort and whether or not it would be a good fit for us in the future.


and this...



you are just way too good to all of us.

I won't deny that my motivations were not entirely pure.

I did enjoy finding all those photos. ;)


I needed to see some Jack this morning.

A morning started by the viewing of Jack Sparrow is sure to be a good one. :thumbsup2

I hear you. This is the first time we are planning days for relaxing (only another DISer would understand the importance of "planning" nothing).

Seriously. I don't know if I've posted this before in this particular report, but this is how DH and I used to do Disney before we had our son.

We'd pick a resort based on my CM (I used to work for the Disney Store) or Annual Passholder discount.

Then, each day, we'd head out to the bus stop.

And see which one came first.

And that's the park we'd go to.

I know there are a lot of people on here who would be thrown into a near tizzy by that prospect. We also (before the advent of the dining plan and free dining whatnot) would only plan 1-2 ADRs max. Everything else was fly by the seat of your pants counter service. :thumbsup2


And the pool at CSR looks absolutely beautiful. It would be very easy to while away a day watching the kids play in the pool.

I can totally see my son loving that pool and loving that playground. I'm going to head to the Dollar Tree later and make sure we have some beachy sand toys to bring with us.


Would your DS be interested in something like the campfire and movie at Fort Wilderness?

Oops, there I go again, "planning" something to do...

I can't help it.


:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

That's too funny, but I'm doing the same thing. I think, oh we could eat here and watch the fireworks on the beach, yadda yadda.

I think I'm just going to gather up some info on things we've never done that are either free or cost almost nothing. Like the campfire. Do they still give you vouchers for a round of mini golf? My husband and I love mini golf, and we never get to use those, because everything is so planned.

So I know there's lots we could do, I just hesitate to say, we're doing this.

We're going to be pirates. ;) pirate:

[All7OfUs]

ENABLER! :rolleyes1 I hadn't even thought of it until you mentioned it. Would those be earth tones? :lmao:


Yeah, I'm thinking soft earthy tones, beige, rust, the likes. Then something like The Three Caballeros on them saying something catchy. Let me know how they turn out, would ya?

[If U Had Wings]

Seriously. I don't know if I've posted this before in this particular report, but this is how DH and I used to do Disney before we had our son.

We'd pick a resort based on my CM (I used to work for the Disney Store) or Annual Passholder discount.

Then, each day, we'd head out to the bus stop.

And see which one came first.

And that's the park we'd go to.

I know there are a lot of people on here who would be thrown into a near tizzy by that prospect. We also (before the advent of the dining plan and free dining whatnot) would only plan 1-2 ADRs max. Everything else was fly by the seat of your pants counter service. :thumbsup2



The thought of this just sent me into a complete Disney breakdown. It's one of those things in theory I'd like to do, but just know that the inner compulsive Disney planner in me would never be able to handle such freedom.

[TarzansKat]

Yeah, I'm thinking soft earthy tones, beige, rust, the likes. Then something like The Three Caballeros on them saying something catchy. Let me know how they turn out, would ya?

:lmao: Good lord, woman! We're going to have to start calling you the head enabler.

Speaking of which, for all of you who are interested in tie dye shirts, I will be getting back to you. I'm entertaining the notion of setting up a separate EBay account for this purpose. :goodvibes

The thought of this just sent me into a complete Disney breakdown. It's one of those things in theory I'd like to do, but just know that the inner compulsive Disney planner in me would never be able to handle such freedom.

Do you need a hug? :hug:

I know, right? A lot of people can't handle that kind of touring. I'll admit, I couldn't have done that when DS was younger. But he's four now, and he's more go with the flow. Plus, the freedoms you get with that of being able to eat when he's hungry, and not having to work around ADR times, well, I'm really looking forward to it.

And I've definitely been spoiled by free dining. But would I actually pay for the dining plan if I had to? I don't know. Tink and I did in May because for where we wanted to eat, the dining plan came out cheaper than our estimated costs. So that totally was a win-win. But I find most of the children's menu options to be repetitive and sometimes, just gross. I like more variety for my little nut. So there is something nice about the no plan, eat when you want, go where you want kind of touring.

I swear.

Believe me. pirate:

[eandesmom]

I
Seriously. I don't know if I've posted this before in this particular report, but this is how DH and I used to do Disney before we had our son.

We'd pick a resort based on my CM (I used to work for the Disney Store) or Annual Passholder discount.

Then, each day, we'd head out to the bus stop.

And see which one came first.

And that's the park we'd go to.

I know there are a lot of people on here who would be thrown into a near tizzy by that prospect. We also (before the advent of the dining plan and free dining whatnot) would only plan 1-2 ADRs max. Everything else was fly by the seat of your pants counter service. :thumbsup2

We're going to be pirates. ;) pirate:

Oh I LOVE this! DH would be so into that. DS8 would have a complete and utter breakdown, it's all we can do to get him not to focus on what ride he wants to do first and go with the group flow.

We kind of did this on our 04 trip, at least a little bit. This time if we let the bus dictate it'd be easier than the "what do you want to do, I don't know, what do you want to do?" mantra.

But but but....what if the bus was for Blizzard Beach? or DTD? Hmmn...Maybe I can't let go as much as I'd like to think I could.

We only do dinner ADR's anyway so we could actually do this. Hmmmn....I might have to factor this in. Just so my family can realize I am really not as married to a schedule as they might think.

[TarzansKat]

But but but....what if the bus was for Blizzard Beach? or DTD? Hmmn...Maybe I can't let go as much as I'd like to think I could.

I should clarify. Because of my sensitive skin, we're not really water park people. Although I know we'll do it at some point (heck, maybe even these first two days, who knows), we were never into those, really.

So basically, whatever of the four major parks arrived first, that's what we'd get on. It's interesting, too, because now I'm so, well, I'll wear my new red and blue tie dye to DHS because I really want a picture with Sorceror Mickey and that would look so cool.

Or, I'll dress DS in his Star Wars shirt when we go to DHS. And he'll wear his Toy Story shirt another time there. I don't know, am I the only one who tries to match clothes to the parks? I swear, I wear virtually the same outfit to the animal kingdom every year. Black tank, green cargo capris. :lmao:


We only do dinner ADR's anyway so we could actually do this. Hmmmn....I might have to factor this in. Just so my family can realize I am really not as married to a schedule as they might think.

You can do it! Even try it for a couple of days. Why not? As long as you're park hopping, the point is, you're not married the to the park you start off at. You can easily head to another one should you chose. :thumbsup2

[eandesmom]

I should clarify. Because of my sensitive skin, we're not really water park people. Although I know we'll do it at some point (heck, maybe even these first two days, who knows), we were never into those, really.

So basically, whatever of the four major parks arrived first, that's what we'd get on. It's interesting, too, because now I'm so, well, I'll wear my new red and blue tie dye to DHS because I really want a picture with Sorceror Mickey and that would look so cool.

Or, I'll dress DS in his Star Wars shirt when we go to DHS. And he'll wear his Toy Story shirt another time there. I don't know, am I the only one who tries to match clothes to the parks? I swear, I wear virtually the same outfit to the animal kingdom every year. Black tank, green cargo capris. :lmao:



You can do it! Even try it for a couple of days. Why not? As long as you're park hopping, the point is, you're not married the to the park you start off at. You can easily head to another one should you chose. :thumbsup2

I too confess to matching the outfit to the park. That would be hard. But we could do it for a couple of days, at least in the am...maybe while teens are sleeping! I like it! Just get up and GO. Somewhere.

Hopping is the only way to fly :) We did not hop as much this past trip as the previous one but enough to wear hoppers make sense. I like having options!

[TarzansKat]

I too confess to matching the outfit to the park. That would be hard. But we could do it for a couple of days, at least in the am...maybe while teens are sleeping! I like it! Just get up and GO. Somewhere.

Honestly, it's a lot of fun. I wouldn't recommend it if it wasn't. And then when you get to the park, instead of having this preconceived touring plan, you just do whatever has the lowest wait time. I swear...it's a whole other world. :thumbsup2


Hopping is the only way to fly :) We did not hop as much this past trip as the previous one but enough to wear hoppers make sense. I like having options!

I'm with you. Last year, to save a little money (because our trip was eight days and we were staying at the Wilderness Lodge) we opted not to hop. I figured eight days was enough time to hit every park twice.

Now there are definitely advantages to hopping, like being able to have more CS options than Roaring Forks. :lmao:

But there are also some great advantages to the one park per day strategy. It was quite easy to get a lot done! More so than I'd previously realized. It really forces you to focus on one park, and what you can do, and it was nice for a change.

That being said, we're back to hopping this year. :lmao:

[MegansMom]

Congrats on the added days.....and a stay at CSR......gives me even more of a reason to want to switch!!!! ;) I know you won't be doing parks, but if we were at the same resort, you never know when we might accidentally bump into each other!!!!!! Hmmmmmm.........................

[TarzansKat]

I figure even if you're not confused, you all might like a little recap of what's been going on here, and how this trip has changed.

[Edit: I just realized through proof-reading, how unbelievably long this post is. To break it up, I'm going to throw in some pictures from past trips and help you out with a little visual break from the copious text.]

Basically, we've got some new dates, a new hotel, and new non-plans. I can't really call them plans since by the very lack of planning, they are in essence...not plans. Unless to not plan anything is considered some form of planning. In which I case I think I'm going to need another glass of wine. Or rum. A Pina Colava. You know.

First, let's start with the trip binder. She got a little face lift.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0323.jpg

Yup. I took one of my DISigns, so to speak, and turned it into my trip binder cover. Along with my newly modified dates, which happen to be Sunday, September 27th to Sunday, October 4th, 2009.

I'm very, very excited about deciding to extend the trip. It gives my little family some much needed down time before the whole clan arrives, and it gives me the kind of trip I've wanted for many, many moons.

Well, it gives me two days of it, but still. It's something!

And that is the type of trip where you plan nothing. You do want you want, and you're happy doing it, and you have no pre-conceived notions and no pre-set expectations. Now that doesn't mean that I won't load up the trip binder with a bunch of ideas of things that we could do.

And I'd be happy to list some of my ideas for you right here. Things we want to (or have done before), but never or rarely do: mini golf, DisneyQuest, a water park, activities at the hotel pool in the afternoons, activities at the hotel for kids, take in a movie at Downtown, eat at the new T Rex restaurant, really enjoy and explore the resort we're staying in, spend the day at the pool, read by the pool, sit by the pool, sip by the pool.

I sense a theme involving the pool here. Quite frankly, I'm so excited about the Dig Site, I'm fit to burst. When I showed DS the pictures of it, my decision between Pop and CSR for $32 more was made. He was so excited about the pool and the play area, that was just it for me. I can't wait for him to see it in person.

Now, of course, once I change my itinerary, I get to itching about other things as well. And one of the things I got to itching about was my dining plans. For the most part, I was happy. But there was one thing that worried me. A lot. And that was MickeyNiki's review of Nine Dragons. I hadn't read it, I'd only heard about it. And I came across while actually looking for something else.

And I did it.

I read it.

:scared1:

Okay, seriously, I was shocked. And honestly, does this mean I'll never try that restaurant again? No. I wouldn't even worry about it if it was just going to be the three of us. But I have a big crew to worry about, and quite frankly, it's one thing for me to lead my little trio into something that could be potentially bad, but it's quite another for me to lead the whole family into it.

Never mind the simple fact that I get two sit down meals with my Dad. I want them to be good. I want him to enjoy them. I want him to enjoy them so much that he'll go back with me at some point. My Dad does not go to Disney a lot, and when he does, I like to make it count.

Now, of course, we all know how difficult the online system is, not so much in its use, just in the ability to find anything remotely close to what you're looking for. And in my case, I really think that party size is an issue. So when I tried to find something to replace that meal, which is the first night they arrive, the 29th, it was dang near impossible. They had openings in France, but we all know how I feel about France. It's not bad at all, but it's not my favorite. I tried maybe moving the Brown Derby. I tried looking for the Coral Reef. I tried Spoodles. I was really trying to stick in the Epcot resort area, but heck, I even tried Ohana's. No dice.

I was getting bummed. I called my mother the next morning, during the continuation of my search and told her my plight. Told her about the horrible review and that I couldn't willingly do that to everyone. So we both got on the reservation site, and we both got on AllEars, and by Mickey, we looked and looked and looked.

And Mom finally said, what about this?

And I said, let me check out the menu. Because I was almost positive that Bendy had reviewed it and that her review had been very favorable, but I wasn't sure.

And then I saw the menu. And I said, that's not bad. As a matter of fact, I like that. Mom, I like it a lot. Let's check it out. And what do you know? I was able to get a reasonable reservation time for 6 adults and 1 child. And I'll reveal it as I now give you the plans.

Sunday, October 27 - Wake up early. Try to contain my enthusiasm. WE'RE GOING TO DISNEYWORLD! :yay:

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DisneySept08-0022-1.jpg

Our flight leaves at 810 and gets in at 1110, so we'll have a great full day ahead of us. The beauty of having nothing planned is that we'll get to CSR, check in, and take it from there. I worry about the early flight, having done the 700am and remembering how rough that was for DS last year, but given that we have no plans, I think it'll be much easier to get him to take a nap, or do an earlier bed time and get some good rest for the next day.
I have a little aside here that I'll just put out there. Every year, we've taken DS' car seat on the airplane with us. It has a five point harness, and I've just felt more comfortable with how safe it is. This year, I'm debating leaving it at home, and just packing a booster to use when we transport to and from the airport. My son is so tall. I'm not even sure how tall right now, but I just don't think he'll fit comfortably in the confined space you have with that car seat anymore. Now, his pediatrician has okayed him for using either the car seat or the booster in the car, because he's tall enough and weighs enough to do either. I've kept him in the five point harness because he still falls asleep in the car, and with a booster, there's nothing holding them but that seatbelt. I'm wondering at what age you all stopped taking the car seats and just let your child sit in the airplane seat? My son will be 4.5 when we go, and he's plenty old enough to understand that's his seat. Actually, I think he'll be thrilled to be treated like a big boy. But, my worrying side wonders if this is the safest thing to do. Okay, thanks for letting me get that out, sorry it was so long.

Monday, September 28 - Our blissful second day. What will we do? Who can say? Loose plans/non-plans are to head to DisneyQuest. Everything else, like where we'll eat and what else we'll do is totally up in the air. And DisneyQuest doesn't open until 1130, so we could easily do some swimming at the pool in the morning, or head to Downtown and shop, or whatever. I'm so whatever about these days and it feels so dang good. But don't let that fool you. That doesn't mean that I'm still not trying for the ever elusive Ohana's ressie. If I could score one on either one of these days, I'd be over the dang moon.

Tuesday, September 29 - Cue the arrival of the family.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/family-1.jpg
Aren't we cute? :rotfl2:

My parents, my Nana, and my FIL. We'll need to head to bell services this morning to get our luggage switched to Pop. After that's taken care of and we're checked out, we'll need to head to Pop so we can get checked in. I highly doubt our room will be ready that early in the morning, and if it is, I'll make sure to remind them I am traveling with a larger group, and to make sure we're still linked together. I know we're not guaranteed adjacent rooms, but we've always gotten them, even if they're not connecting, which is fine. Actually, I'd prefer they didn't connect. ;)

DHS happens to have morning EMH, which I doubt we'll make given the amount of stuff we have to do, but you never know. Even if we could get there a little bit early, that would be great. We'd book it over to TSM, get fastpasses, and if the wait isn't too long, wait in the queue. I've never seen Mr. Potato Head, and I'd really love for DS to see it as well. He loves Mr. Tato. These are our loose plans before the family arrives. We'll have to see how our morning goes. Since we're park hopping, we could really go anywhere.

When the fam gets in, we'll meet them back at Pop (hopefully retrieve our luggage), and get them checked in and see if our room is ready. For those that are hungry, we'll grab a bite to eat at the Food Court, and then head over to Epcot.

Mom and I would really like to get everyone over to the Visa Meet and Greet, and our timing should be good for this.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DisDec08-1222-2.jpg

Their flight gets in at 1100am, and I expected they'll be at the hotel between 1200-1230. By the time we eat a little something and head to Epcot, I'm sure we'll be within the 130-430 window. I just think it's such a great opportunity to get a photo of the seven of us, and I can't pass it up! I just hope DS is awake. His track record with the Visa Meet and Greet is not so good, if you recall.

We plan to tour Epcot. Mom hopes to maybe get on Soarin', but we're not entirely ride focused. We may just tour the WS, we're not sure. The ultimate plan is to end up at dinner.

Which is now at The Captain's Grille at the Yacht Club, at 605pm.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DisDec08-0292.jpg

I feel really good about this reservation, which has taken the place of Nine Dragons. I think we'll have a much more relaxing evening. We can boat over to the Yacht Club (I wouldn't walk with Nana, and DS will like the boat ride), and after dinner, depending on the time, we'll maybe head over to the Boardwalk and just stroll. We'll either head back into the park to see Illuminations, or, if DS is awake, we'll watch it from the Yacht Club. You can see how beautiful it is without the benefit of the loud noise, which DS does not like. I'm hoping though, that we'll keep this a relatively early night. Not only will my family have been up early to make the flight, but I'm hoping to get up early the next morning.

Wednesday, September 30 - Magic Kingdom Day - I want to wake up early. For my little family, this is not an issue. DS is my alarm clock, and he wakes me up every day between 500-630am. It's extremely rare that he sleeps later than that. I'd really like to get to the Magic Kingdom for its opening. Even if we don't see the actual opening, I just want to get there and make a beeline for Fantasyland. I have discovered something. In order to do the rides in Fantasyland, I need to do them in the morning, when there are limited crowds, and it doesn't send me into panic attack mode. It makes for a very, very happy TK.

Plus, it will be nice to relive some of those memories of my parents taking me on those rides, and now taking my son on those rides. It's just a full circle kind of moment that I'm really looking forward to.

Now, to ply everyone into going along with this, I have promised a few things.

But first, lunch. Which is at 1145am at the Crystal Palace. This is pretty much my favorite restaurant in the Magic Kingdom. Even though we had a rough time with DS there last year (he was overtired, and we were all under the weather), I find myself looking forward to this more and more each day. Plus, the benefit of going with a large group is that there are more people to distract/entertain your child. It can work out to your advantage. ;)

I also think it'll be a hoot to see everyone with the characters. Especially my dad and my fil. I don't know why, but I always get really, really amused when characters will walk up to either one of them and rub the top of their heads because they're bald. It never fails to get a giggle out of me, every single time. :lmao: Never mind that I personally love a big ole bear hug from that silly ole Pooh. He's always been one of my favorites, ever since I was little.

So what have I enticed certain people...ahemmom...with in order to get this kind of early rush rush go go go commando touring?

The Tambu Lounge.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DisneySept2007-1042-1.jpg

Oh yes, you heard me right. The game plan is to go to the MK, do our early touring, have lunch, and wait for DS to fall asleep in his stroller. Once he does, we're all going to take an adult break and head over to the Poly and to the Tambu Lounge. We'll sit, relax, take a break from the park, and feel as refreshed as DS will when he wakes up.

Afterwards, we'll head back to the MK and finish up whatever we didn't get to do that we'd like to, especially with my Dad there. I'm thinking pictures of him with the princesses would be priceless. And I can't wait to see how my DS will react to them. He's said he wants to meet them. He's got huge stranger anxiety. It should be, at the very least, interesting. And if he wants to hide behind someone, well, there are plenty of adults for him to choose from. :thumbsup2

Boy, it's taking forever for me to write this update. :lmao:

Thursday, October 1 - Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party - I can't wait. Can't wait, can't wait, can't wait. I live for this party. For the feel of it, the sight of it, the magic of it. I could go on and on, but I won't. I'm already being way too loquacious, and I'm sure you all want to do other things this evening.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/image097-1.jpg - Thought you might like a little reminder of how great we look...even if we are headless.

I'm also excited about this day because I'm also going to get to meet some of my DIS friends. Now in the morning, we have nothing planned other than relaxing, hanging at the hotel, and maybe a little swim. This is also a good time for Mom and Nana to head to Downtown if they want to (I know my Mom wanted some time to do that, so I tried to plan it in.)

We then have tea at the Garden View Lounge in the Grand Floridian at 215pm. As do Paula, Jen, and Christine. Because great minds really do think alike. :thumbsup2Now, I know they'll be coming from their pedis at the spa. And I almost thought of looking into booking something for the ladies this morning as well, and leaving the menfolk at the hotel. This is the morning that my dad leaves, so he won't be joining us for tea.

So I'm hoping that I can maybe hit the GF a little early and say hello to everyone before tea. I'm not sure how Mom and Nana really feel about all my DIS friends, although Mom's met Tink and absolutely adored her, so there is that. But I'm sure there's still some part of her that thinks I'm an absolute weirdo for getting so excited over people that I've never met but only talk to on the internet. :lmao: Now, Heidi, will you be meeting up here as well, or later at the party?

Speaking of the party. After tea, we'll all get ready and get our costumes on. However long that takes. We'll head to the MK, and I'm thinking that for the earlier half of the party, I'll be pretty much occupied. Looking on the new thread (THANKS HEIDI!!!!!) I've sort of plotted out what I'm going to do when. And I know there are some of you who would like to ride POTC with me. I'm thinking a good time to do this might be right after Hallowishes. That will give me the time to spend with my son trick and treating and doing meet and greets while he's awake, and hopefully, he'll get to see the parade, and then we'll get him changed into PJs and sacked out before the fireworks start. Let me know what you all think, and what your touring plans are like for that evening.

Friday, October 2 - DHS Morning - We're going to recover from our late evening by sleeping as late as the young child will let us. When all is said and done, we have a ressie at Sci Fi for 1235pm. This is the day Mom and Nana will be doing lunch at the Brown Derby and dinner in France, so we have an open evening.

Not so open now. CP and I are planning to meet up for drinks this evening in Epcot. We're not sure what time yet, but suffice it to say, it's in the works, and I'm excited. Once I found out Jackie was going to be in the World at the same time as me, there was no way I could pass up meeting here. :goodvibes

During the day, we'll do some things together, and there are a few things I know Mom's not interested in like the (Jackie, cover your eyes and skip to the next line) Indy Stunt show and Lights Motors Action. Two shows that DH and I think our son will be over the moon for.

I mean even if it's not Harrison Ford, how could you pass up this?

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/indy2.jpg
To ease the blow, CP. To ease the blow. ;)

Of course we'll try fastpasses for TSM again, and do classics like the Great Movie Ride. It'll definitely be nice to have our open evening, and I had entertained the notion of hopping over to Epcot even before CP and I talked, so I think it's really going to work out great.

Saturday, October 3 - Animal Kingdom - We're going to the Animal Kingdom. When I was talking to DS about all these plans the other night, he said he wants to see the Nemo show, so we're definitely going to make that a priority this year. Now that I know where the petting zoo is (thanks again to Heidi), I'm going to try to fit that in as well. Dinner this evening is in DHS at the Brown Derby at 5:$5pm, and Mom and I have been calling this my official birthday dinner.

It's not every girl who gets to have her 30th birthday dinner a the Derby, so I feel very, very blessed. Even if it's not my actual birthday, it doesn't matter. I'm celebrating my birthday in the World, with people I love. It just doesn't get much better than that.

Hopefully, we'll have enough time to do what we want at AK, and then head to DHS. We're planning on having a change of clothes with us so that everyone can be dressed more nicely for dinner. :thumbsup2 I don't do this sort of thing usually, but I know that in the AK, I typically sweat. Buckets. It's gross. I could either bring a change of clothes, or go on Kali and hope I dry before I get to DHS. :rotfl2:

Sunday, October 4 - I am never, ever found of discussing departure day, but this one should be pretty nice as departures go. We plan to head out to the MK early after getting our bags checked with bell services and checking out of the hotel. We'll do a little park touring there, and then head to Chef Mickey's at 1100am for a late breakfast/early lunch.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DisneySept08-0702.jpg

We'll have a little more time to head back to the Magic Kingdom after that's done, and do any last minute shopping and say our goodbyes to our beloved castle. My least favorite part of every trip. I always stop, usually a different spot every time, and stand, and just stare at it. Burn it into my memory a little bit longer. And you know what? I remember it. I remember it from every ending moment of every trip of taken. From last September, from December when I saw it lit beautifully for the holidays, from May with Tink...

If you focus on it, it's a sight that'll stay with you forever.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/Nana2008-316.jpg

Never mind all the other memories we'll be making on this trip. And it won't be perfect.

And even these carefully crafted plans won't go the way I want them to, not all the time, because they can't. But it's fun to try.

And it's fun to let life unfold the way it's supposed to. I wish I could remember that every day, and not just on my vacations. Wouldn't the world be a better place if we all lived our lives like we were on vacation at Disney World? ;)

[TarzansKat]

Congrats on the added days.....and a stay at CSR......gives me even more of a reason to want to switch!!!! ;) I know you won't be doing parks, but if we were at the same resort, you never know when we might accidentally bump into each other!!!!!! Hmmmmmm.........................

OMG! We overlap now, don't we? I must mosey on over to your PTR and remind myself of your dates. I'd love to ACTUALLY bump into you, know accident about it, my dear! :goodvibes

[MRYPPNS]

That took me for-ever to read....glad I took notes.

DS on the plane: I wouldn't bring the car seat and you can't use the booster on the plane (as I'm sure you know). I'm sure he will be find with just the sit belt....it's really only to keep you from flying around in the cabin. But you could check out the CARES harness....but I don't know what that is rated for weight. Scrappie-Do got one for her toddler Mae, so she might know.

Capt's Grille....this made my short list 2 years running....just never got the chance to go. I think it's a really good pick. Spoodles may be open at the new Cat Cora restaurant by then so that could be a back-up

DS stroller napping: At 4.5 yo are you sure he is going to sleep in his stroller like his has in the past? You have cocktails ridding on that!

10/1 Dis-meet....I'll definately see you at the party that night. GF in the afternoon will be a toss up as to what I actually do that day vs. my "plan" and what time you will be there before your tea adr.

Epcot and drinks with Jackie....hope I'm invited to that <insert pout here>

I think that covers it!:lovestruc

[TarzansKat]

That took me for-ever to read....glad I took notes.

It was ridiculously long. And my DSL tanked while I was writing it. Thank god I copied and pasted into a word file.


DS on the plane: I wouldn't bring the car seat and you can't use the booster on the plane (as I'm sure you know). I'm sure he will be find with just the sit belt....it's really only to keep you from flying around in the cabin. But you could check out the CARES harness....but I don't know what that is rated for weight. Scrappie-Do got one for her toddler Mae, so she might know.

I'm going to venture a guess and say he's probably too big for that, but I can check it out, thanks. :thumbsup2


Capt's Grille....this made my short list 2 years running....just never got the chance to go. I think it's a really good pick. Spoodles may be open at the new Cat Cora restaurant by then so that could be a back-up

Your opinion means a lot to me, so I'm glad to know it's something you've considered.


DS stroller napping: At 4.5 yo are you sure he is going to sleep in his stroller like his has in the past? You have cocktails ridding on that!

We'll see what the summer will bring. Right now, he's still a regular napper. He may skip it one to two days a week, but all the other days he does nap, some longer than others.

Besides. We are not the type of people who are opposed to bringing or toddler with us to have cocktails. :lmao: He's actually been to the Tambu Lounge before, so no big deal.


10/1 Dis-meet....I'll definately see you at the party that night. GF in the afternoon will be a toss up as to what I actually do that day vs. my "plan" and what time you will be there before your tea adr.

Excellent. I will look forward to riding POTC with you. :goodvibes


Epcot and drinks with Jackie....hope I'm invited to that <insert pout here>

Of course you're invited! I couldn't remember what park you were in that day. :lmao:


I think that covers it!:lovestruc

Thanks for taking the time to read it all. I appreciate it. :thumbsup2

[MRYPPNS]

Epcot and drinks with Jackie....hope I'm invited to that <insert pout here>

Of course you're invited! I couldn't remember what park you were in that day


I'm hopping around on Friday and Saturday. My only semi-solid plans are MNSSHP on 10/1 and AK during the day on 10/2

So PM me the deets about an Epcot meet or on the Everythings Better thread

[jenjolt]

WOW what an update LOL!! I loved being able to read through it!!!

Can't wait to meet you at tea and I promise not to be obtrusive!!!! That way we won't scare your mom or your small child LOL!!!!

Drinks with Jackie sound excellent!! Friday is me and P's AK day so we are going to wait and meet up with CP on Saturday morning LOL!! I guess I should put that over on the other thread LOL!!

WOWzer look at those costumes, you guys made quite the pair I'm sure!!!

Well I can't help you with any of the kid advice considering I don't have any at this time!!

However I can agree to celebrating your bday at WDW its awesome!! I can't wait!!

[Charleston Princess]

First, let's start with the trip binder. She got a little face lift.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0323.jpg

Love it!!! You already come up with wonderful designs!

And I'd be happy to list some of my ideas for you right here. Things we want to (or have done before), but never or rarely do: mini golf, DisneyQuest, a water park, activities at the hotel pool in the afternoons, activities at the hotel for kids, take in a movie at Downtown, eat at the new T Rex restaurant, really enjoy and explore the resort we're staying in, spend the day at the pool, read by the pool, sit by the pool, sip by the pool.

All of which sound like a lot of fun and just heavenly! Especially the sitting and sipping by the pool! I plan to do some of that myself. :cloud9:

Now, of course, once I change my itinerary, I get to itching about other things as well. And one of the things I got to itching about was my dining plans. For the most part, I was happy. But there was one thing that worried me. A lot. And that was MickeyNiki's review of Nine Dragons. I hadn't read it, I'd only heard about it. And I came across while actually looking for something else.

And I did it.

I read it.

:scared1:

Okay, seriously, I was shocked. And honestly, does this mean I'll never try that restaurant again? No. I wouldn't even worry about it if it was just going to be the three of us. But I have a big crew to worry about, and quite frankly, it's one thing for me to lead my little trio into something that could be potentially bad, but it's quite another for me to lead the whole family into it.

It was downright scary, wasn't it? If Nicki had just sad it was blah that would be one thing, but her description of her meal just plain put me off the place for evermore!

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/family-1.jpg
Aren't we cute? :rotfl2:

Adorable! I take it you are the one wearing the tiara since you are the birthday girl?

Which is now at The Captain's Grille at the Yacht Club, at 605pm.

Oh, goody! A new place to hear about! :thumbsup2

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/image097-1.jpg - Thought you might like a little reminder of how great we look...even if we are headless.

Can I just say how excited I am to be meeting you with your heads attached! :laughing:

Not so open now. CP and I are planning to meet up for drinks this evening in Epcot. We're not sure what time yet, but suffice it to say, it's in the works, and I'm excited. Once I found out Jackie was going to be in the World at the same time as me, there was no way I could pass up meeting here. :goodvibes

:yay: So looking forward to this!!! :thumbsup2

During the day, we'll do some things together, and there are a few things I know Mom's not interested in like the (Jackie, cover your eyes and skip to the next line) Indy Stunt show and Lights Motors Action. Two shows that DH and I think our son will be over the moon for.

:eek: (Sorry, I had to peek!)

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/indy2.jpg
To ease the blow, CP. To ease the blow. ;)

So delicious! ;) Thanks for letting him visit your PTR!

All of your plans look wonderful, TK!

[Charleston Princess]

Epcot and drinks with Jackie....hope I'm invited to that <insert pout here>

Yes, please! :goodvibes

[creativeamanda]

Don't have much time as I need to be in bed, but I wanted a quick word about Captain's Grille. We ate there two weeks ago ( :( ) and it was in the top three of the best meals, with them being in this order: 1. Liberty Tree Tavern, 2. Tutto Italia, 3. CG. You can't go wrong with tht ADR/

[TarzansKat]

I'm hopping around on Friday and Saturday. My only semi-solid plans are MNSSHP on 10/1 and AK during the day on 10/2

So PM me the deets about an Epcot meet or on the Everythings Better thread

Okie dokie. I'll PM you.:thumbsup2

WOW what an update LOL!! I loved being able to read through it!!!

Thank you for taking the time. It was helpful for me to write it, because once I write it down, it helps solidify the plans / non-plans.


Can't wait to meet you at tea and I promise not to be obtrusive!!!! That way we won't scare your mom or your small child LOL!!!!

Bless you! :lmao:


All of which sound like a lot of fun and just heavenly! Especially the sitting and sipping by the pool! I plan to do some of that myself. :cloud9:

Yes. I think I'll call it my sit and sip. And read.

And ruminate.

Nah, I won't ruminate. Why should I think on vacation? :lmao:



It was downright scary, wasn't it? If Nicki had just sad it was blah that would be one thing, but her description of her meal just plain put me off the place for evermore!

It was scathing! The only reason I would go back is because every place has a bad day, and you're going to have one bad meal on your trip. For us, last year, unfortunately, it was Boma. For her, it was Nine Dragons.



Adorable! I take it you are the one wearing the tiara since you are the birthday girl?

Well, yeah! :lmao: Did you like DS' halo?


Can I just say how excited I am to be meeting you with your heads attached! :laughing:

You'll never think of me the same way again. :rotfl2:


So delicious! ;) Thanks for letting him visit your PTR!

All of your plans look wonderful, TK!

Here on the TK trip report we are equal opportunity ooglers. Jack Sparrow, Indiana Jones...whoever. :lmao:

Don't have much time as I need to be in bed, but I wanted a quick word about Captain's Grille. We ate there two weeks ago ( :( ) and it was in the top three of the best meals, with them being in this order: 1. Liberty Tree Tavern, 2. Tutto Italia, 3. CG. You can't go wrong with tht ADR/

Oh, thank you! I'm happy to hear that you enjoyed it, excellent. :goodvibes

[If U Had Wings]

The plans are looking wonderful. It's going to be such a great trip for all of you.

I agree with you completely about MNSSHP. It's what I'm going to miss most on my December trip. I'm just not as enthused about the Christmas party, although we are planning on going.

I'm begining to feel like I'm the only disser not going to Disney the first week of October. :sad1: You are all going to have so much fun at your meet ups! :)

[jmamom]

Just read thru the new plans and un-plans - they sound great. I think it'll be a great way to start your week - you'll be totally relaxed by the time the family gets there! And Captain's Grill was on my list of maybe's - we picked Rose & Crown instead but its still in the back of my head. I just hadn't heard much about it, so I'm curious to read all the comments here. Great update!

[eandesmom]

Honestly, it's a lot of fun. I wouldn't recommend it if it wasn't. And then when you get to the park, instead of having this preconceived touring plan, you just do whatever has the lowest wait time. I swear...it's a whole other world. :thumbsup2



I'm with you. Last year, to save a little money (because our trip was eight days and we were staying at the Wilderness Lodge) we opted not to hop. I figured eight days was enough time to hit every park twice.

Now there are definitely advantages to hopping, like being able to have more CS options than Roaring Forks. :lmao:

But there are also some great advantages to the one park per day strategy. It was quite easy to get a lot done! More so than I'd previously realized. It really forces you to focus on one park, and what you can do, and it was nice for a change.

That being said, we're back to hopping this year. :lmao:

We don't do touring plans...the extent of my planning is "probably" this park, this day and dinner at xx at xx:xx.

The probably this park this day is based on crowd calendars, fireworks schedules and EMH and the dinners are planned around the probably this park this day but other than that, it's deliberately flexible! :)
:)

[eandesmom]

Great update!

my 2 cents....

Carseat. Skip it. Lugging it from baggage claim is just one more thing to haul and you are right, he won't fit comfortably in it on the plane. We moved to boosters at 5 for both kids but they are on the small side. It was a birthday present lol. Mine would sleep in a booster that had a back on it. It looked absolutely horrendously uncomfortable but they did it. That said, at that age, they would NOT sleep on a plane. Made for a very long red-eye.

Nap in the stroller. Hmmn. At that age neither of mine wanted to be in the stroller, at all. Too much to see and do. I took one, we didn't use it. At all. I think I ended up lending it to my sister...

But I agree, no reason he can't join you for cocktails. Ours do.

Captains Grille. I will look forward to the reviews! I had such bad CS a the Lotus Blossom Cafe in 04 that neither Scrooge or I would consider Nine Dragons.

I love your no-plan days!

[TarzansKat]

I agree with you completely about MNSSHP. It's what I'm going to miss most on my December trip. I'm just not as enthused about the Christmas party, although we are planning on going.

It is the thing I'll miss the most if I don't go next fall. Honestly...I can't remember missing an MNSSHP since their inception. I think we've gone every year.


I'm begining to feel like I'm the only disser not going to Disney the first week of October. :sad1: You are all going to have so much fun at your meet ups! :)

I feel a weekender coming on. ;)

Just read thru the new plans and un-plans - they sound great. I think it'll be a great way to start your week - you'll be totally relaxed by the time the family gets there! And Captain's Grill was on my list of maybe's - we picked Rose & Crown instead but its still in the back of my head. I just hadn't heard much about it, so I'm curious to read all the comments here. Great update!

You know, I have always wanted to try Rose & Crown! I remember eating there as a kid, but I know with my crew, there's just not enough of a selection on the menu. Still, I'd love to try it some day.

I'll definitely be sure to let you know how we feel about Captain's Grill! :thumbsup2

We don't do touring plans...the extent of my planning is "probably" this park, this day and dinner at xx at xx:xx.

The probably this park this day is based on crowd calendars, fireworks schedules and EMH and the dinners are planned around the probably this park this day but other than that, it's deliberately flexible! :)
:)

That's a good way to do it, really.

Great update!

my 2 cents....

Carseat. Skip it. Lugging it from baggage claim is just one more thing to haul and you are right, he won't fit comfortably in it on the plane. We moved to boosters at 5 for both kids but they are on the small side. It was a birthday present lol. Mine would sleep in a booster that had a back on it. It looked absolutely horrendously uncomfortable but they did it. That said, at that age, they would NOT sleep on a plane. Made for a very long red-eye.

Hmm. :scratchin I was just thinking of the backless booster for the car rides to and from the airport. I'm sure that would be sufficient, right? I know I can fit it in our luggage, too, whereas if I buy a brand new booster with the back to it, I'd be so worried that it'd get totally dinged up in the cargo bay of the plane.


Nap in the stroller. Hmmn. At that age neither of mine wanted to be in the stroller, at all. Too much to see and do. I took one, we didn't use it. At all. I think I ended up lending it to my sister...

We went to the zoo today, and he still wanted to ride in the stroller for part of the time. I would have to say, he's definitely in it less than he has been. But, DH and I have always been of the opinion that if he wants to walk, we find a nice place to park the stroller (in a designated area, of course) and let him walk. Then we have it for the evening and no one has to carry a sleeping 46+ pound toddler.


But I agree, no reason he can't join you for cocktails. Ours do.

If he's awake, I'd just order some apps, and let him nosh.


Captains Grille. I will look forward to the reviews! I had such bad CS a the Lotus Blossom Cafe in 04 that neither Scrooge or I would consider Nine Dragons.

Thanks for the heads up. I was thinking of trying it.


I love your no-plan days!

I am attempting to hold to my no plans. And my DH is so happy about this, so I can't really plan anything. That's what I keep telling myself.:lmao:

[eandesmom]

Hmm. :scratchin I was just thinking of the backless booster for the car rides to and from the airport. I'm sure that would be sufficient, right? I know I can fit it in our luggage, too, whereas if I buy a brand new booster with the back to it, I'd be so worried that it'd get totally dinged up in the cargo bay of the plane.

We went to the zoo today, and he still wanted to ride in the stroller for part of the time. I would have to say, he's definitely in it less than he has been. But, DH and I have always been of the opinion that if he wants to walk, we find a nice place to park the stroller (in a designated area, of course) and let him walk. Then we have it for the evening and no one has to carry a sleeping 46+ pound toddler.



They usually have giant plastic bags to stick the boosters in but yes, they will get dinged up. Or the back will pop off and let me tell you, that is one way to break a nail. Or five. Trying to get the backs back on. I gave up and went backless all the way. Tired enough, they still slept without the back. Looked like whiplash to me but....those little critters are bendy!

TK....

I truly truly hate to break it to you.

he is 4.5
he is going to K in the fall (right?)

He's not a toddler.

Doesn't mean he won't need or want a stroller but...he is a preschooler my friend. Not a toddler.

It's hard. I know.

At 4 and 5 neither of the e's napped, or fell asleep at night until we hit the car. Granted, both had given up naps prior to the trip so that wasn't really a surprise but I was shocked at how well they did in the evenings and then how well they slept at night. But, if nothing else, the stroller is a GREAT place to carry your stuff!

[TarzansKat]

TK....

I truly truly hate to break it to you.

he is 4.5
he is going to K in the fall (right?)

He's not a toddler.

Doesn't mean he won't need or want a stroller but...he is a preschooler my friend. Not a toddler.

It's hard. I know.

You know what, hon? That was a total Fruedian slip. I normally refer to him as a preschooler, but on our last trip, he was 3.5, and therefore to me, still a toddler. Actualy now, mostly, I call him my little boy.

But no, he's not going to kindergarten this fall, which is why we can still do this trip. He's actually not going until 2010 because of how his birthday falls. He won't be 5 until February of next year, so he has to wait a year to head off to public school. Which I'm quite frankly, thrilled with. Because I still get to have him for that year.

And yes, we won't get into how hard it is for me that he's growing up. Especially because as of now, he's an only. It stinks. :sad1:


At 4 and 5 neither of the e's napped, or fell asleep at night until we hit the car. Granted, both had given up naps prior to the trip so that wasn't really a surprise but I was shocked at how well they did in the evenings and then how well they slept at night. But, if nothing else, the stroller is a GREAT place to carry your stuff!

And that's precisely why I still want it. :lmao: I can reasonably get away with it for one more year. :thumbsup2

[MegansMom]

The plans look great....it would be so nice to bump into you if we could!!! ;)

BUT.....Captain's Grille?!?!??! How have I never heard of this restaurant before?!?!?!?! I must go look it up at once!

[TarzansKat]

The plans look great....it would be so nice to bump into you if we could!!! ;)

I would love that. I don't remember what your exact dates are, but I was playing around with stuff tonight and saw some availability at CSR with the free dining promo.


BUT.....Captain's Grille?!?!??! How have I never heard of this restaurant before?!?!?!?! I must go look it up at once!

Oh, check it out. I think you'll like the menu. :thumbsup2

[maroo]

What a wonderful update!

And I do wish I had taken notes!! :scared1:

I need a recap for the recap! :lmao:

I love the new dates! I am so glad you get a little downtime before the fam all comes!

I love how cool you guys look! The visual of your cool smiling faces was priceless!

The thought of all 7 of you guys getting pics with Mickey is a great thought. I hope HRH is not sleeping! Although that did make for some great pics, too and some awesome trip reporting! :thumbsup2

At first I thought you guys had all moved resorts! I am glad you are still staying at the POP! :thumbsup2

MNSSHP - was one of the best nights of my Disney World life. I can't believe I am missing it this year...but hopefully will catch it next year! You guys will have a great time!

Awesome update! I am so excited for your trip!!!!! :dance3:

[eandesmom]

You know what, hon? That was a total Fruedian slip. I normally refer to him as a preschooler, but on our last trip, he was 3.5, and therefore to me, still a toddler. Actualy now, mostly, I call him my little boy.

But no, he's not going to kindergarten this fall, which is why we can still do this trip. He's actually not going until 2010 because of how his birthday falls. He won't be 5 until February of next year, so he has to wait a year to head off to public school. Which I'm quite frankly, thrilled with. Because I still get to have him for that year.

And yes, we won't get into how hard it is for me that he's growing up. Especially because as of now, he's an only. It stinks. :sad1:


awwwww...I'm sorry :(

Feb is a great bday....not too old in the class and not too young (aka immature). DS10 is a June bday and while I can't imagine having held him back...it was brutal at times in the early grades. At those ages that full year is such a huge difference it's mind boggling. It is also a GREAT age for Disney. Take lots of pics and show them to him afterwards, often. They do forget alot before the age of 5, it's so wierd, but true. Which I guess is good...since DS8 didn't remember what a train wreck he was after ToT when he was 4!:lmao:

And that's precisely why I still want it. :lmao: I can reasonably get away with it for one more year. :thumbsup2


I miss those days, although on the flip side I don't miss the "do I have to carry all the stuff now?" question when I ended up parking said stroller. Lockers have become our stroller of choice :lmao:

[jmamom]

Just thinking - how did you like the baggalini? I got mine and it looks like it'll be great, but I'll have to test it out. I'll be curious to hear your opinion.popcorn::

[pooh'smate]

I have just finally caught up. Life has been so busy lately and I have been having migranes lately and problems with my dr not listening to me. Soto make a long story short I switched dr's and am now waiting until he can see me.

[creativeamanda]

Oh, and TK, as far as the MNSSHP goes--Best. Party. Ever. I'd go again to morrow if I could!

[TarzansKat]

I love the new dates! I am so glad you get a little downtime before the fam all comes!

Hmph.

Stay tuned. :lmao:


The thought of all 7 of you guys getting pics with Mickey is a great thought. I hope HRH is not sleeping! Although that did make for some great pics, too and some awesome trip reporting! :thumbsup2

That is true, those have always been some very fun pics, regardless of whether or not he's awake. I'm betting with the arrival of the family he'll be wired.


At first I thought you guys had all moved resorts! I am glad you are still staying at the POP! :thumbsup2

I'm glad we haven't totally switched because when I show DS pics of Pop on the computer, he goes nuts over all the icons. :thumbsup2


MNSSHP - was one of the best nights of my Disney World life. I can't believe I am missing it this year...but hopefully will catch it next year! You guys will have a great time!

I love it so much I almost can't put it into words.


Awesome update! I am so excited for your trip!!!!! :dance3:

Me, too.

awwwww...I'm sorry :(

It's okay, hon. I'm having a rough week emotionally, and I just got a little sentimental right there. :lmao:


I miss those days, although on the flip side I don't miss the "do I have to carry all the stuff now?" question when I ended up parking said stroller. Lockers have become our stroller of choice :lmao:

We are gaining so much more independence and mobility even now. It's amazing to me the things I don't have to carry anymore! :goodvibes

Just thinking - how did you like the baggalini? I got mine and it looks like it'll be great, but I'll have to test it out. I'll be curious to hear your opinion.popcorn::

You know, it finally came yesterday and I just haven't had a chance to test it out yet. I'm not quite sure how I feel about it. It looks like plenty of pockets but I'm really going to need to put everything in it and see how it feels. It feels great with nothing! :rotfl2:

I have just finally caught up. Life has been so busy lately and I have been having migranes lately and problems with my dr not listening to me. Soto make a long story short I switched dr's and am now waiting until he can see me.

Oh, hon. I hope you're okay. :hug:

Oh, and TK, as far as the MNSSHP goes--Best. Party. Ever. I'd go again to morrow if I could!

:thumbsup2

[creativeamanda]

K-Seriously? You're kidding me, right? Because if you note my ticker, I'll be in the World Oct 1-6. And I'll be at DHS the morning of Oct 2 (MNSSHP that night) and MK on Sunday. We have to meet up. Just have to.

[pooh'smate]

Hmph.

Stay tuned. :lmao:

popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::





Oh, hon. I hope you're okay. :hug:


I am ok now, thank you for asking but I was really upset with the dr who keeps telling mw that I am depressed and not really getting migranes. I am sorry but I know I am not depressed. If my head hurts so bad I am getting sick and I have sensitivity to light and noise and sometimes have numbness then I have a migrane not depression. I think it was worse because he wouldn't give me meds to help the pain just anti depression meds. Well I found some Tylenol with codine in it and I took that.

[TarzansKat]

K-Seriously? You're kidding me, right? Because if you note my ticker, I'll be in the World Oct 1-6. And I'll be at DHS the morning of Oct 2 (MNSSHP that night) and MK on Sunday. We have to meet up. Just have to.

Um, hon?

WHEN DID YOU GET THAT TICKER???

What am I missing here? :lmao: Wow! I would love to meet up with you at some point. :thumbsup2

[creativeamanda]

Um, hon?

WHEN DID YOU GET THAT TICKER???

What am I missing here? :lmao: Wow! I would love to meet up with you at some point. :thumbsup2

Today? (She sheepishly says)

I having been working extra days this summer for a little extra pocket change. I started pricing free dining trips for the heck of it, and after a little fuzzy Disney math, I booked it. :rolleyes1

We'll just have to meet up. Although I'd probably recognize that Mickey head with a human body bottom anywhere. . .:rotfl2:

And I won't be too hard to find--just look for the person with two girls waiting outside of various restrooms in the parks. We're staying at ASMu--I've never been there before, but could not justify the extra cost for POR with just me and the kids.

[TarzansKat]

Today? (She sheepishly says)

I having been working extra days this summer for a little extra pocket change. I started pricing free dining trips for the heck of it, and after a little fuzzy Disney math, I booked it. :rolleyes1

Good for you! :thumbsup2


We'll just have to meet up. Although I'd probably recognize that Mickey head with a human body bottom anywhere. . .:rotfl2:

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:


And I won't be too hard to find--just look for the person with two girls waiting outside of various restrooms in the parks. We're staying at ASMu--I've never been there before, but could not justify the extra cost for POR with just me and the kids.

Well, I know what your kids look like, but did you post a pic of yourself on your TR? I can't remember. :confused3

[creativeamanda]

Good for you! :thumbsup2



:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:



Well, I know what your kids look like, but did you post a pic of yourself on your TR? I can't remember. :confused3

You know, I don't remember, either. I'm usually behind, not in front of the camera. . .

And thanks, dh doesn't want to go, but I can handle my kids by myself. They know to listen there or we go back to the resort.

[TarzansKat]

You know, I don't remember, either. I'm usually behind, not in front of the camera. . .

And thanks, dh doesn't want to go, but I can handle my kids by myself. They know to listen there or we go back to the resort.

You're going to have a great time!

Do they know already?

[eandesmom]

I have just finally caught up. Life has been so busy lately and I have been having migranes lately and problems with my dr not listening to me. Soto make a long story short I switched dr's and am now waiting until he can see me.

I'm glad to read you switched doctors.

Wayyyyy back in 1997-8 or so I started having horrendous migraines. I'd never had them before. My doctor kept insisting nothing was wrong or it was it was either


TMJ (and then went on a tirade how the dentist would want to fix it "his" way and he'd want to fix it a different way and he could guarantee me that insurance would NEVER pay for any of it. If memory serves he had some crazy-a surgery way of addressing it. The dentist had a different crazy way. I also switched dentists. New one said..."you have teeth for days!" Who knows what's going on until you get your wisdom teeth out!. Gee...common sense, what a concept!:lmao:

Depression

All in my head.

To humor me, he "let me" get an MRI and of course, nothing was wrong.

Fed up, miserable I finally switched doctors.

To my new one, who, in one visit realized

I had a history of asthma related sinus issues...they'd just never produced headaches before so the link didn't occur to me. And they hadn't bothered me in years. I've never actually had asthma but what they called a manifestation of...which caused lots of icky sinus issues and the asthma meds helped it.

I had moved to a completely different part of town which meant completely new environmental things I was exposed to.

I was now living with a smoker (BLECH, I still can't believe I did that). And while he didn't smoke in the house, I was around it.

My breathing was not where it should be (other guy never even checked).

I'd broken my nose twice (long story) and it's not like I had clear passages to start with.

I had an amazingly stressful situation at home (longer story) but I WAS NOT STRESSED! At least, not about that.

My new doctor was SOOOO mad at the old guy! He was like...at least he could have MRI'd your sinuses!

And gee... the stress of the headaches was causing stress, causing jaw clenching causing...TMJ.

Some appropriate meds later...all better.

Now I know what to take when I get those headaches. I did eventually get those darn teeth out (holy nightmare batman), get rid of the smoker and that stress but it really was an allergy/hay fever type of issue that should have been diagnosed right away.

I know how incredibly frustrating it is. With my recent eye thing...it took 3 different doctors to get to the bottom of it. Keep plugging and don't settle till you get an answer that makes sense to YOU.

:hug:

[creativeamanda]

You're going to have a great time!

Do they know already?

You are so going to call me "Miss Indecisive". DH says he'll go if we go for Christmas. He wants to go to the party, etc., etc.

So tomorrow morning, I'll call Disney again and rearrange everything.

The good news? Because it's 5 of us, we have to go back to Port Orleans-Riverside. Ah. . .home. :goodvibes

[TarzansKat]

You are so going to call me "Miss Indecisive". DH says he'll go if we go for Christmas. He wants to go to the party, etc., etc.

So tomorrow morning, I'll call Disney again and rearrange everything.

The good news? Because it's 5 of us, we have to go back to Port Orleans-Riverside. Ah. . .home. :goodvibes

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

Will we be changing the ticker?

[creativeamanda]

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

Will we be changing the ticker?

For the third time today, yes. It's changed. . .LOL. :rotfl2:

[TarzansKat]

"I think you are."

The former, I said. The latter was spoken to me by a CM I called earlier tonight.

Guys.

I am so excited.

I am super excited.

I am almost as excited as if Jack Sparrow himself were to walk into my house right now and...well, I digress.

Almost. But I am SO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!

Want to know why?

Guess, guess.

Done guessing?

Tonight I called WDW Reservations because I was having trepidations about CSR. And although I knew my son would love the dig site and the pool, I still wanted to check other availability.

No dice. Ah well.

But while I was on the phone, I thought to ask the lovely CM (whose name I could not understand but who heretofore shall be referred to as my angel :angel:) something else.

My angel asked me if I was willing to play around with my dates. And I said, well, I'm really booked at Pop for free dining from the Sept 29th - Oct 4th, and since I have you on the phone, can you just check and see if it's available for those dates in full? Meaning, Sept 27th - Oct 4th.

And my angel said yes.

And I said, what?

And my angel said, yes. In a preferred room. (We book preferred for Nana primarily, but we enjoy it as well.)

And I said, I'm sorry, could you repeat that? Did you just tell me that you have free dining from Sunday, September 27th to Sunday, October 4th?

Yes, I do. Would you like to modify your reservation?

:cool1::cool1::yay::yay::yay::banana::banana: :banana::cheer2::cheer2:

pirate:pirate:pirate:

:thumbsup2

That was my internal...well, and somewhat external happy dance. Guys, I could not believe it! I now have free dining, with 7 day park hoppers from Sept 27-Oct4!!!!

Do you know what this means?

I CAN GO SEE BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY IN EPCOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am so frickin' frackin' excited I can barely contain myself!

Hold me back, HOLD ME BACK!

PIRATE!!!!!!!!

WOO HOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:flower3:

[MRYPPNS]

woot woot!!!

[TarzansKat]

woot woot!!!

It's so awesome, I had to quote it!!!!

WOO HOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :goodvibes

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, TK, this is fabulous news!!! Because it means this is truly going to be one heckuva birthday celebration for you!!! :party:

[TarzansKat]

Oh, TK, this is fabulous news!!! Because it means this is truly going to be one heckuva birthday celebration for you!!! :party:

Thanks, CP! It is going to be one heck of par-tay!

One could even say a pirate par-tay! pirate: Perhaps even a...swashbuckling good time.

Okay, I'll stop now.

[Charleston Princess]

Thanks, CP! It is going to be one heck of par-tay!

One could even say a pirate par-tay! pirate: Perhaps even a...swashbuckling good time.

Okay, I'll stop now.

:lmao: It's okay to be giddy!!! We all know that "let me dance around the room and squeal like a teenager" feeling when it comes to Disney!

[TarzansKat]

:lmao: It's okay to be giddy!!! We all know that "let me dance around the room and squeal like a teenager" feeling when it comes to Disney!

OMG! I KNOW! I feel like I did at my thirteenth birthday party when we were all sitting in my parents living room head banging to Wayne's World. :lmao:

[Charleston Princess]

OMG! I KNOW! I feel like I did at my thirteenth birthday party when we were all sitting in my parents living room head banging to Wayne's World. :lmao:

:lmao: You are too funny!

[TarzansKat]

:lmao: You are too funny!

Giddiness will do that to you. I'll be lucky if I can sleep tonight.

One of the Disney travel shows is on, I'm off to watch!!! :goodvibes

[jenjolt]

:cool1::banana::cool1: AWWWW... CONGRATS TK!!! I'm so excited for you :cool1::cool1::banana:

[nu2wdisneyw]

As do we all, right? :lmao:

I think one of my best, and arguably most annoying qualities is my ability to amuse myself. Case in point...my PTR chapter titles. Add that to my uncanny ability to burst out laughing at my job for no apparent reason, leaving my co-workers to stare at me in wonder, and we'll, you've got someone who, when in a good mood, just creates their own brand of funny.

It doesn't help that so many things during the day remind me of Disney. Rides, attractions, shows, characters, you name it, if there's even the most tenuous connection, it's in my head before you can say Jiminy Cricket.

I think what unnerves them the most is not when I sing "Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me," in its entirety, but when I start with the whole macabre, "Welcome, foolish mortals...there's always room for one more...any volunteers???" :rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

Honestly, the ability to amuse yourself, especially when you're not thrilled with your work environment, well it's dang priceless.

What's not priceless, but acutally quite pricey is this whole trip bag thing. Hence the baggage, trip bag, baggage, ADR issues, drama, baggage.

You get the idea.

Anyway, the Vera is going back. Most likely today, once I get my unmotivated self showered and out the door. I have no motivation for errands, but alas, they need to be done.

And I got to thinking. And I didn't want to. I didn't want to be like everyone else. But sometimes, being like everyone else is not quite so bad, especially if everyone else has good ideas.

What am I rambling about?

The Baggalini. :lmao:

I had really underestimated the appeal of this bag. Well, I know they have a whole huge line, but when I say this bag, I mean, this one:

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/bagga121602_64244_jb.jpg

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/bagga121602_64242_jb.jpg

I'm showing you the lime green just so you can see the structure of the bag. It's harder to tell in the photo of the black one, but that's actually what I ordered. Basic black goes with everything, and as you can tell from my ranting about shoes, that's pretty much what I have in my wardrobe. Lots of jeans and black with some colors thrown in here and there.

I'm pretty sure this is the one that Wings said she had, and maybe even Maroo, too? I like the fact that it's a messenger style strap that goes across my body. I really prefer the feel of that rather than the traditional style backpack. I also feel like it's unisex enough for myself and DH to carry without looking out of place, because if he doesn't want to do the across style, he can just throw it over his shoulder.

Here's the product description:


I don't know if you're aware, but I go nutty over a bag with a lot of pockets. The more pockets, the happier I am. I love to have everything for myself and DS separate, and to keep everything in it's place. It makes life so much easier when you're not rifling through one big interior pocket to find everything.

I really want to love a Vera bag, because I love color and prints and they're fun. But after all your rave reviews of the Baggalini brand, I thought I'd head over to bagsbuy.com and just check it out. Well, it turns out this bag was actually on sale. It was on sale for $37.45 down from $44.95. I found a coupon code for $10 off my purchase, and go the first time customer discount of 10% off.

All told, this bag cost less than $25 with shipping. Quite frankly, I don't think I'm going to be able to do much better than that. I'm really hoping that when this arrives, I like it and it works. I really need to get something in place, because even though we have three months, I still feel like this is one duck I need to get in a row.

So far, this is how the shopping cards lie. We're keeping the following:

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/242943_30841_41.jpg http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0230.jpg - These Keens in black. All told, cost was under $65. I've been wearing them around the house and I like how they feel and look. They're sporty, and cute.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/6627-675799-d.jpg - These Teva flips. All told, cost was under $25. They don't match a lot of my wardrobe, but they're too comfortable to let go since I can't find black ones.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0231.jpg - DS' new swimsuit, my new Mickey purse, and the Nemo pens for character signing. I have to say, I really love this black purse. I used it yesterday, and it was very comfortable to wear. If I don't like the Baggalini, I'll be using this as a purse, and then a tote to carry DS' stuff in. That's my last resort. You'll know I've given up when I tell you that's what I'm doing. Not because I don't like the purse or anything. I think it's just the fear that I'd leave it somewhere. That's one of the reasons I like the cross body bags, because when you sit down on a ride, it's attached to you. When you leave, attached. You know? And with a four year old, it's so easy to get distracted.

So there you have it. I see through my Kohls tracking that the tanks I ordered have arrived, so maybe in our near future there will be a post about homemade shirts. I did go out and buy the tie dye kit, and DH does have the weekend off, so hopefully we can at least get started on these. It's exciting!

One of the most fun parts of preparing for the trip I think, is making all the neat stuff to go along with it.

It also helps to distract me from the impending ADR countdown. :scared1:

Hello! I have been reading through you PTR for the past couple of days and I decided to finally comment. Your writing style is really enjoyable. I just wanted to thank you for the info on the coupon code for bagbuy.com. I just ordered my baggillini messenger bag in pewter!!! I can't wait to get it!!I can't wait to read more!

[pooh'smate]

TK I am so happy for you and a little sad too as that is the exact time we would have been there and I am missing out on the dismeet. I am more happy that you were able to get what you wanted though for your birthday.

[creativeamanda]

Woohoo!!!!!! So glad you have what you wanted!

[TarzansKat]

Hello! I have been reading through you PTR for the past couple of days and I decided to finally comment. Your writing style is really enjoyable. I just wanted to thank you for the info on the coupon code for bagbuy.com. I just ordered my baggillini messenger bag in pewter!!! I can't wait to get it!!I can't wait to read more!

:welcome:

Thank you so much for posting and the lovely compliment about my writing! It's a pleasure to know you're enjoying it. :goodvibes

Once I get over my free dining for all my dates high...will I ever get over that :lmao:....I'll post a new chapter, with my thoughts on the baggalini.:thumbsup2

TK I am so happy for you and a little sad too as that is the exact time we would have been there and I am missing out on the dismeet. I am more happy that you were able to get what you wanted though for your birthday.

:hug: Aw! It would have been nice to meet, but I'm happy for your solo trip with your DH. :goodvibes

Woohoo!!!!!! So glad you have what you wanted!

WOO HOO! I can't believe I get to see BBVDD. :thumbsup2

[If U Had Wings]

I'm so happy that everything worked out for you. It's going to be a wonderful trip for you!!!!

[MegansMom]

So are you now at POP the entire time?!?!??!! YEAH FOR TK!!!!!!! SO excited for you!

[TarzansKat]

I'm so happy that everything worked out for you. It's going to be a wonderful trip for you!!!!

Thanks! :goodvibes

So are you now at POP the entire time?!?!??!! YEAH FOR TK!!!!!!! SO excited for you!

YUP and thanks!!! :thumbsup2

[maroo]

OMG!

You got FD for that whole time? At POP?!?!?!?!?!


You rock.

[TarzansKat]

OMG!

You got FD for that whole time? At POP?!?!?!?!?!

It's true! I am so lucky! :goodvibes


You rock.


:blush:

[All7OfUs]

Great news! Woohoo for you! Seriously, that is very cool!

[TarzansKat]

Great news! Woohoo for you! Seriously, that is very cool!

Thank you! It's very exciting. :goodvibes

[2xcited2sleep]

This is truly AWESOME news, TK. We'll be on the lookout for you at BBVD! It's bad but I'm so excited for this trip I find myself wishing the summer away. :sad2: Hurrah for your angel castmember! :yay:

[TarzansKat]

This is truly AWESOME news, TK. We'll be on the lookout for you at BBVD!

I was wondering whether or not I'll spot you in the crowd. I think we're aiming for the earliest one, but who can say since it's our arrival day. :lmao:


It's bad but I'm so excited for this trip I find myself wishing the summer away. :sad2:

I have the same problem every year, no joke. Fortunately this summer, we've been doing lots of fun stuff with my son, swimming, little day trips, etc, so it's great. I don't feel like I'm wasting time, I'm filling it till my vacation! :lmao:


Hurrah for your angel castmember! :yay::thumbsup2

[Native NYer]

Ohh got a lot of catching up to do here as well :surfweb:

[TarzansKat]

Ohh got a lot of catching up to do here as well :surfweb:

OMG, JEN!!!! How are you? I've missed you! :goodvibes

[jmamom]

So great that you to change your ressies. CSR looks cool, but having to move would've been a pain! What's going to happen to your unplanned days now, though? Having park tickets will be so tempting!!! But you must enlighten me - who is Big Bad Voodoo Daddy?:confused3

[TarzansKat]

So great that you to change your ressies. CSR looks cool, but having to move would've been a pain! What's going to happen to your unplanned days now, though? Having park tickets will be so tempting!!!

I'll be posting about this in my next update (which I'll be writing shortly). They'll still be mostly unplanned, but definitely have some park activity. :thumbsup2


But you must enlighten me - who is Big Bad Voodoo Daddy?:confused3

Oh, my dear! Let me show you!

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/bbvd_photo_3-724676.jpg

They've been around for quite a while. I've actually seen them perform and they're amazing. At the venu where we were, they set up a dance floor in front of them, and people do swing dance while they're singing. They cover some of the older swing music, and they have original songs as well, like You and Me and The Bottle Makes Three, and they do a great cover of I Wanna Be Like You (from the Jungle Book).

I just love them, I'm so excited to see them again.

[jmamom]

Oh, I love swing music, sounds great! I'll have to check the schedule now - we're planning to be in Epcot Sunday the 27th for dinner anyway, hopefully we'll catch them! Thanks!!:goodvibes

[TarzansKat]

Oh, I love swing music, sounds great! I'll have to check the schedule now - we're planning to be in Epcot Sunday the 27th for dinner anyway, hopefully we'll catch them! Thanks!!:goodvibes

Just out of curiousity, where are you having dinner?

Yeah, they're very, very good. I think you'll enjoy it. I believe the show times are 515, 645, and 730. Someone can correct me on that if I'm wrong. :thumbsup2

[TarzansKat]

Hee hee.

Well, there was a lot of trip excitement and activity this week. Of course, when Mom found out about us going down two days earlier, she started to consider it for herself and Nana as well. In the end, though, she decided she'd rather save the money, and go again with me (we're hoping to do a mother/daughter trip, maybe sometime in January).

After my little foray into the World with Tink, my Mom very nicely mentioned that she would love to get away just the two of us. And we used to do that a lot, so it would be nice to have a mother/daughter weekend. Fortunately for me, my father now has the same days off that I do, so it would be very easy for him to watch my son while my husband works. We're thinking a four day trip, but that's a whole other story. The only reason it relates is because most likely on this trip I'll be taking my pass and upgrading it to an annual. Of course, all this trip talk is dependent upon when I start school and what classes I'm taking. I've also toyed with the notion of upgrading myself, DH, and DS to annual passes. As long as we went back to the World before September 27th of 2010, they'd be more than worth it. So I've thought about taking DS the summer before he starts kindergarten. We'll see. Plenty of time to think about that! :goodvibes

So since I have two lovely days just the three of us, I really felt okay talking to Mom about going to the spa. It was something I'd thought about doing, because it is my birthday, and it would be a nice treat.

And I'll tell you a little secret. I am extremely budget conscious. Thrifty, you might even say. That's not the secret, that should be pretty obvious if you read here. The secret is that for this trip, my budget filter is clogged. Yup, you heard that right. Want to add two days on to the trip? Sure, why not. Want to go to the spa? Yup, don't care what it costs.

Did I just say that? Did I just say I didn't care what it costs? Just don't tell the people at the spa, okay, it's plenty expensive already. :lmao:

I don't know what it is really. I guess because this is my 30th birthday trip and I'd already made so many compromises on it. Staying at Pop because it made sense for everyone, planning meals around everyone's likes, you get the idea. It's the pleasure and burden of traveling with a large group, and I signed up for it, so I get it. But I think in regard to myself, in regard to this particular birthday, I'd really like to go all out.

Normally, when I go on a free dining trip, I don't plan extras. I don't plan to go to Disneyquest, or pay OOP for tea, or do any of those kinds of things. On this trip, the motto is, why not?

Call it part of my Peter Pan complex, call it part of my "I'm going to spoil myself to soften the blow" complex, call it what you will.

But I got online and found the website for the various spas around the WDW resort back when we were still staying at CSR. I was toying with the idea of getting a massage since we would be right there.

When Mom thought about going, because she would like to do the spa with me, and then decided not to, I suggested that we go the morning of MNSSHP. It fits in perfectly there as I'd had it as an open morning. And initially, I didn't want to plan anything then, because I wanted some time with my boys. Now that we have the two extra days, I'm perfectly contented to leave them to their own devices. That, and it's really nice for my husband and father in law to have some bonding time with DS. Long story, but let's just say it warms my heart. :goodvibes

So Mom and I both checked out the website, decided what we wanted, and called yesterday to book it.

We're going to the Grand Floridian Spa (is there any other in TK's world?) on the morning of Thurs, Oct 1st, and we're both having aromatherapy massages and spa pedicures. Now I'm paying my own way, but as a special treat for my birthday, Mom threw in the paraffin treatment for hands and feet for the two of us.

We're going to be pampered. And relaxed. And feeling thoroughly spoiled. And I LOVE IT! We'll get there a bit early, since our appts are later morning, and just enjoy the spa and relax and become acclimated to being pampered. :cloud9:

Afterwards, we left ourselves plenty of time to get ready for tea, and of course, to have our 130 meet.

Although at this point I find it ironic.

Because the three people I was supposed to meet at 130, I believe will also be at the spa at the same time as little ole me.

Who wants to see TK in a bathrobe? I'll be the one with the tiara.

NOT headless, no less! :lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:

Suffice it to say, I'm really excited to be treating myself, and spending some girly time with my mom. We may get on each other's last nerve sometimes, but she really is one of my best friends. And one of the hardest parts of having her watch my son these past few years is that we don't really have time to cultivate that friendship. Now that he's only there one day a week, we're starting to regain some of the fun in our relationship, and I had really missed that. So it'll be nice to do this together, and feel a little bit like a princess:. Oh, and of course...when Mom calls to book our appointments, what does she tell the receptionist?

"And my daughter will be turning thirty; we're celebrating her birthday."

Thanks, Mom.

:lmao:

[jmamom]

Just out of curiousity, where are you having dinner?

Yeah, they're very, very good. I think you'll enjoy it. I believe the show times are 515, 645, and 730. Someone can correct me on that if I'm wrong. :thumbsup2

We've got an ADR at Rose & Crown for 4:50 (although for some reason my heart just isn't in this one), and an Illuminations cruise at 8pm, so we've got some time to kill in between. Maybe we'll catch the 6:45 show. Where are they located? Is there seating or do you just walk up and watch? Thanks for the info!!

[TarzansKat]

We've got an ADR at Rose & Crown for 4:50 (although for some reason my heart just isn't in this one), and an Illuminations cruise at 8pm, so we've got some time to kill in between. Maybe we'll catch the 6:45 show. Where are they located? Is there seating or do you just walk up and watch? Thanks for the info!!

You know what, I have always wanted to try Rose and Crown! :lmao: But I am actually more interested in their lunch menu for my family than for dinner. I am also dying to hear those lovely British accents. :goodvibes

You know that big open theater across from...oh, gosh, is it near the American Pavilion? I can picture Epcot in my head, I think that's where it is.

[Charleston Princess]

Ahhhh, the spa sounds lovely! You are going to have a splendid day on October 1st -- spa, tea, MNSSHP! :thumbsup2

[TarzansKat]

Ahhhh, the spa sounds lovely! You are going to have a splendid day on October 1st -- spa, tea, MNSSHP! :thumbsup2

It even rhymes!

Spa, Tea, MNSSHP!

Spa, Tea, MNSSHP!

I love it! :goodvibes

[2xcited2sleep]

A DIS meet in bathrobes... perfect!!! :lmao: And now that you mention it, I believe I will NEED a tiara! ::yes::

Good for you for tossing the budget temporarily out the window. You deserve it. This is a big birthday and a lovely event to have the family together! :goodvibes

And I'm giddy for you at the thought of APs and a bunch of additional trips! :yay:

[jmamom]

You know what, I have always wanted to try Rose and Crown! :lmao: But I am actually more interested in their lunch menu for my family than for dinner. I am also dying to hear those lovely British accents. :goodvibes

You know that big open theater across from...oh, gosh, is it near the American Pavilion? I can picture Epcot in my head, I think that's where it is.

I booked it knowing that DH will at least like the beer...:laughing:. Glad to hear its not back in Future World, probably wouldn't have hiked all the way back there. Your spa day sounds wonderful, wish I could ditch my family for something like that, but without me, they'd have no plan! How on earth would they know what to do with themselves?? They might just go ahead and do something - gasp - unscheduled.:scared1: Can't have that! Enjoy your girls time with Mom, can't wait till my girls are old enough to appreciate some of that!

[TarzansKat]

Ugh.

That's pretty much how I feel about this right now. Big....ole....ugh.

Here's what I've been doing all morning, folks. Taking tons of pics of the different bags I have in my posession in the quest to find the ultimate park bag. The bag that will serve all my needs while hopefully being somewhat stylish, easy to carry, and easy to fit under the stroller.

I'm so close to ready to give up.

This is all the stuff (with the exception of a pair of underwear and socks for DS that I forgot to put in the picture but are in the bag) that needs to fit in our park bag.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0329.jpg - I also got rid of my bulky wallet and put the ids and various cards and cash I would need in a smaller zippered pouch. I bring my WTP wallet every trip and it's really unnecessary. And obviously, my camera's not in the picture. If you can't figure out why, you must be having a rough day.

Here's the Baggalini. I know a lot of you have either ordered, have, or been thinking about this one, so I took some photos of it empty for you.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0331-1.jpg - Front of the Bag

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0336.jpg - Back of the Bag

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0332-1.jpg - A - The Outermost Zippered Pocket with Mesh Netting Separating it from B

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0333-1.jpg - B - The Next Outer Pocket, with Multiple Interior Pockets for Organization

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0335-1.jpg - C - Velcro Side Pocket

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0334-1.jpg - D - Mesh Side Pocket

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0339-1.jpg - E - The Main Compartment

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0338-1.jpg - F - The Back Zippered Pocket, Flush to your Back while Wearing

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0337.jpg - G - Not Labeled in the Main Photo, this Pocket is on the Strap

And then I tried to fill it with everything. And I have to say, the organization of this bag is lovely. It has enough pockets for everything, and maybe even a little bit of room for some smaller souvies. Like if we got DS some extra Disney matchbox cars, I know they'd fit in here no problem. Bigger things would certainly need to go elsewhere, but I know we'll keep a tote bag with our ponchos in the bottom of the stroller so that's not a big deal.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0340.jpg

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0341.jpg - The hair brush is pretty much where I'd put the camera.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0342.jpg

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0345.jpg

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0350.jpg

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0344.jpg

And here's your gratuitous shot of me wearing it, although since I'm still in my jams here, it's very, very, very cropped. Nobody needs to see that.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0346-1.jpg

Here's the catch. I like it. It's sporty. It's cute. But check out how low it hangs on me. Even when I adjust it, it's still pretty low on my back. Now, I know that for the majority of the trip, this will be in the bottom of the stroller. It'll most likely come out briefly while we're on rides, to get the camera, things like that. So it may not be a huge issue. But if I view it as something I'd like to possibly use in the future, I'm not sure. The size of it is perfect, and it really does fit everything I want. The problem that I have with it is the way it pulls on my lower back. Even when I tighten the strap it doesn't seem to help too much. I'm just not quite tall enough, I guess. I'm wondering if there are any other baggalini styles that I might like better?

So then I thought, well let me throw everything in my Vera and see how I feel.

Now I sort of threw everything in, this would be way more organized if it were really packed for the trip.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI03562.jpg

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI03582.jpg

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI03592.jpg

I don't know. I really do like this bag, but I remember it feeling so heavy on my December trip. It didn't pull on my back, which I'm worried the Baggalini might do, but it did give me some tension on my shoulder from the weight. Which makes me wonder what the lesser of two evils is.

Then I tried this smaller purse style Travelon Mom gave me a while ago. Everything fits and it's very organized, but it's fit to bursting, no room at the inn.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0361.jpg

So my last resort is my little Mickey purse and a tote bag.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0366.jpg

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0362.jpg

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll289/tarzanskat/DSCI0364.jpg

Now I won't deny there are some benefits to having my stuff completely separate from DS. And this definitely makes it easy to find things, but I'll need myself or someone to carry that tote bag onto rides with us because I won't feel comfortable leaving it in the stroller. So, most likely, one of the menfolk (my FIL is a gracious helper) would be happy to carry it for me, but on the off chance that's not a possibility, I don't like how it feels to carry both of those. Never mind we'll have our ponchos in the stroller as well.

Decisions, decisions.

I really don't know what to do. I'm not entirely satsified with any of my options. Maybe a pro/con list would help.

Baggalini - Pros - Has enough pockets to organize and keep everything separate. Like the style of it. Is not bulky. Would probably count as a purse when traveling on the plane.
Cons - Feels like it would hurt my lower back after prolonged wearing.

Vera - Pros - Has enough pockets to organize, like its style as well.
Cons - Know for a fact that it hurts after prolonged use, and it feels very bulky when carrying on rides.

Travelon - Pros - I love the way everything fits, and how the interior is light blue so I can find everything.
Cons - I have a really hard time fitting DS spare outfit, pjs, and wipes in, but they do fit.

Purse and Tote - Pros - Everything is separate. Keeping DS' and my stuff separate means it's easier for DH when he has him on the morning I go to the spa. Not that we couldn't bring a tote and separate everything out as well.
Cons - Carrying two bags if necessary.

So there you have it. I'd really love some opinions from those of you who have successfully used the baggalini before. Does your back hurt? This is my biggest concern, I guess.

Ugh. :lmao:

[TarzansKat]

A DIS meet in bathrobes... perfect!!! :lmao: And now that you mention it, I believe I will NEED a tiara! ::yes::

Everyone should have a tiara. I'm debating wearing mine...practically every day. :lmao: It is my birthday, after all. :rotfl2:


Good for you for tossing the budget temporarily out the window. You deserve it. This is a big birthday and a lovely event to have the family together! :goodvibes

This is extremely rare for me, so I'm going to enjoy it.


And I'm giddy for you at the thought of APs and a bunch of additional trips! :yay:

A bunch! I said two, woman, two. Don't start with me, you never know where it may lead.

Oh, Ti-ink? Want to go again? :lmao:

I booked it knowing that DH will at least like the beer...:laughing:. Glad to hear its not back in Future World, probably wouldn't have hiked all the way back there. Your spa day sounds wonderful, wish I could ditch my family for something like that, but without me, they'd have no plan! How on earth would they know what to do with themselves?? They might just go ahead and do something - gasp - unscheduled.:scared1: Can't have that! Enjoy your girls time with Mom, can't wait till my girls are old enough to appreciate some of that!

Hey. I would totally book a placed based on alcoholic beverages. We won't discuss what that says about me. I recently became OVERJOYED when I discovered what neat drinks they have at Sci Fi. It dispelled any worries I had about dining there. :lmao:

I know what you mean about leaving the family alone. My biggest fear in leaving the boys to their own devices is that they'll be late to tea. :scared1:

[jenjolt]

LOL...Hey my Thursday sounds a lot like your Thursday....spa, tea, MNSSHP LOL!!!!! I can't wait it should be a ton of fun!!!

I got a princess tiara at one point and then I'm not sure what I did with, thankfully I have about 76 more days to find one LOL...so I might have to put that on my list and start looking LOL!!!!

I can't really help too much on the bag situation because well I have my own bag woes LOL!!!! But go with whatever is the most comfortable for you!

I too will be renewing my AP I have one more year of trips to make before the move...so going to get the most out of my money LOL!

[MRYPPNS]

Baggalini - Pros - Has enough pockets to organize and keep everything separate. Like the style of it. Is not bulky. Would probably count as a purse when traveling on the plane.
Cons - Feels like it would hurt my lower back after prolonged wearing.

I wish this came in prints instead of plain colors but I think it has the best of all features. I really don't know how much you will be wearing this....how does it fit on the stroller?

Vera - Pros - Has enough pockets to organize, like its style as well.
Cons - Know for a fact that it hurts after prolonged use, and it feels very bulky when carrying on rides.

This one looks good but I always wonder about those Veras getting wet...
Travelon - Pros - I love the way everything fits, and how the interior is light blue so I can find everything.
Cons - I have a really hard time fitting DS spare outfit, pjs, and wipes in, but they do fit.
This one looked too small to me.

Purse and Tote - Pros - Everything is separate. Keeping DS' and my stuff separate means it's easier for DH when he has him on the morning I go to the spa. Not that we couldn't bring a tote and separate everything out as well.
Cons - Carrying two bags if necessary.

That tote bag is going to hurt worst than the Vera or Baggiewhateverlinnie

I had no problems with leaving non-valuables in the stroller. I packed a small bag of stuff that just stayed in the stroller (not in my bag). And if you remember I had that blue organizer on my stroller that made it difficult to eye ball what was in the bottom of the stroller without kneeling down next to it.

[MRYPPNS]

I too will be renewing my AP I have one more year of trips to make before the move...so going to get the most out of my money LOL!

Jen- where are you moving to???

[TarzansKat]

LOL...Hey my Thursday sounds a lot like your Thursday....spa, tea, MNSSHP LOL!!!!! I can't wait it should be a ton of fun!!!

For me, it's dang near perfect. :thumbsup2


I got a princess tiara at one point and then I'm not sure what I did with, thankfully I have about 76 more days to find one LOL...so I might have to put that on my list and start looking LOL!!!!

Start lookin'! :thumbsup2


I can't really help too much on the bag situation because well I have my own bag woes LOL!!!! But go with whatever is the most comfortable for you!

What are you thinking of using?


I too will be renewing my AP I have one more year of trips to make before the move...so going to get the most out of my money LOL!

Excellent. More trips is always better in my book.


And Heidi, before I even get into your quotes, thank you SO Much for going through all the bags and being "practical mom" with me. It really helps to have your opinion because you've done this, too. :goodvibes
Baggalini - Pros - Has enough pockets to organize and keep everything separate. Like the style of it. Is not bulky. Would probably count as a purse when traveling on the plane.
Cons - Feels like it would hurt my lower back after prolonged wearing.

I wish this came in prints instead of plain colors but I think it has the best of all features. I really don't know how much you will be wearing this....how does it fit on the stroller?

You know, I want to say that I found one giraffe type print on bagsbuy.com. I know how much you love giraffes! ;) I still don't picutre you with that, though, I think the messenger bag from LLBean is more your style.

And you're right. I probably won't be wearing it that much. And this would be awesome under the stroller. It's a compact size, but holds so much. Because of that compact size, I know it will be a very easy in and out underneath the stroller, which is a huge plus. It irks the you know what out of me when I have to struggle to get the bag out.


Vera - Pros - Has enough pockets to organize, like its style as well.
Cons - Know for a fact that it hurts after prolonged use, and it feels very bulky when carrying on rides.

This one looks good but I always wonder about those Veras getting wet...

You know, you're not the first person to mention that. I'm sure it would get soaked if we got caught in a rainstorm, but I'd just wear it under the poncho. As long as I had enough time to get to cover, it should be fine. I do like how the Baggalini is waterproof though, that's a plus.


Travelon - Pros - I love the way everything fits, and how the interior is light blue so I can find everything.
Cons - I have a really hard time fitting DS spare outfit, pjs, and wipes in, but they do fit.
This one looked too small to me.

I love it, but it feels to small to me too. This would possibly be great for my weekender with Mom.


Purse and Tote - Pros - Everything is separate. Keeping DS' and my stuff separate means it's easier for DH when he has him on the morning I go to the spa. Not that we couldn't bring a tote and separate everything out as well.
Cons - Carrying two bags if necessary.

That tote bag is going to hurt worst than the Vera or Baggiewhateverlinnie

I had no problems with leaving non-valuables in the stroller. I packed a small bag of stuff that just stayed in the stroller (not in my bag). And if you remember I had that blue organizer on my stroller that made it difficult to eye ball what was in the bottom of the stroller without kneeling down next to it.

I think in December we left the bag with the wipes in the stroller, but not much else in there. I guess what concerns me is leaving his spare clothes and jams in there. I mean if someone wants to take those, it would be pretty sad, but I had forgotten about how you had that stroller organizer as well. Where did you get that again?

[ILuvCrush]

Thanks TK for posting all the bag pics!! I have less paraphanalia (since my kiddos are bigger than your DS) to lug around, so now I know that the baggalini will be big enough for me! I'm hoping that i get it this week...so i can trial run it at Hershey next weekend:thumbsup2


Do you think I should dig out my tiara too??? I don't want to feel left out...and 'technically' sorta I'm celebrating a birthday too (albiet a bit early):rotfl2: I have a couple to choose from... yay for having girls:lmao:

horray for you for pampering yourself with a spa day!! I'm excited about the 'robe meet' LOL!! Too bad we aren't all getting mud facials... a 'Muddy Meet' has such a nice ring to it:rotfl:

Paula

[pooh'smate]

TK, are you going on any day trips in which you could try the said bagalini (or however that bag is spelled) for they day just to see if it would hurt your back? Then you would know if it would work for you. I too am considering up grading my ticket to an ap so I will have it already because my dd is starting school in the fall too and we would like to take her before she starts school. I am glad that you are treating yourself for your birthday.

[TarzansKat]

Thanks TK for posting all the bag pics!! I have less paraphanalia (since my kiddos are bigger than your DS) to lug around, so now I know that the baggalini will be big enough for me! I'm hoping that i get it this week...so i can trial run it at Hershey next weekend:thumbsup2

Oh, I'm glad you liked the photos! I was hoping they'd be helpful, that's why I took so many. It really is a great little bag.


Do you think I should dig out my tiara too??? I don't want to feel left out...and 'technically' sorta I'm celebrating a birthday too (albiet a bit early):rotfl2: I have a couple to choose from... yay for having girls:lmao:

Oh, for goodness sake, let's ALL wear tiaras!!!! :goodvibes I'll have to find one for my mom, but that's easy enough to do. We'll certainly know who we all are when we see the tiaras. :thumbsup2


horray for you for pampering yourself with a spa day!! I'm excited about the 'robe meet' LOL!! Too bad we aren't all getting mud facials... a 'Muddy Meet' has such a nice ring to it:rotfl:

Paula

Muddy Meet. Well, I'll not only be the one in the bathrobe and tiara, I'll also smell yummy. I'm getting an aromatherapy massage. :lmao:

TK, are you going on any day trips in which you could try the said bagalini (or however that bag is spelled) for they day just to see if it would hurt your back? Then you would know if it would work for you. I too am considering up grading my ticket to an ap so I will have it already because my dd is starting school in the fall too and we would like to take her before she starts school. I am glad that you are treating yourself for your birthday.

You know, we just went to the zoo and I was able to try out my Keen sandals. I hate to post it, because usually when I talk about how much I love shoes, it's like the kiss of death, but they were awesome!

My parents and I do have plans for more day trips this summer, so I could try a trail run.

[MRYPPNS]

That stroller organizer was actually a lawn chair organizer that I found at Walmart! I'm known to repropose almost anything.

I spare clothes I had for Liam in the stroller were ones that I didn't care about if they got stolen. I decided that anything that we kept unattened in there was 'disposable'... inconvinent, but disposable.

[TarzansKat]

That stroller organizer was actually a lawn chair organizer that I found at Walmart! I'm known to repropose almost anything.

Now I remember! I think I might even have something similar. I almost want to say someone gave me a car organizer, like you have on the back of the passenger's seat.


I spare clothes I had for Liam in the stroller were ones that I didn't care about if they got stolen. I decided that anything that we kept unattened in there was 'disposable'... inconvinent, but disposable.

You know, you make a good point. If I kept his older outfits as spares, it would really matter.

[2xcited2sleep]

Oh the quest for the perfect bag. I'm not a mom so I do not yet feel the pain of carting around other people's stuff. Just my own carp. :laughing: I'm liking the organization of the baggalini and you said that you see it being in the stroller much of the time so I'm thinking maybe there isn't a need to worry about it hurting your back too much? :confused3

LOVE the idea of us identifying eachother by our tiaras. Off to google tiaras for purchase now...

[MRYPPNS]

LOVE the idea of us identifying eachother by our tiaras. Off to google tiaras for purchase now...

I'm not going to the spa but I'm suddenly having a urge to pack the tiara that I wore for my wedding princess:

[TarzansKat]

Oh the quest for the perfect bag. I'm not a mom so I do not yet feel the pain of carting around other people's stuff. Just my own carp. :laughing: I'm liking the organization of the baggalini and you said that you see it being in the stroller much of the time so I'm thinking maybe there isn't a need to worry about it hurting your back too much? :confused3

That's pretty much what my DH just said to me. How much do you really think you'll be carrying it? And given that I usually spend about $10 on a new backpack every year (which we ruin every trip, they're cheap from WalMArt), this is only $15 more and will hopefully last longer.

I'm really liking the organization as well.


LOVE the idea of us identifying eachother by our tiaras. Off to google tiaras for purchase now...

It's a great idea. I'll have to find one for my mom, or ask her if she has one. I almost want to say she does, I think one year she came to my halloween party as a princess.

I'm not going to the spa but I'm suddenly having a urge to pack the tiara that I wore for my wedding princess:

You should so pack your tiara! What are you wearing to MNSSHP?

[creativeamanda]

Aren't moms great for making sure everyone knows it's your 30th bday? UGH.

As far as the bag situation goes, yuck--I am having the same quandry. And, yeah, the ticker has changed. Again. I'll start my PTR tonight with the whole sordid story. And it is. Sordid. And a story. Of course, based on my dining reservations, we won't be at any of the same parks on the same day. We'll still have to arrange a Dismeet of some sort. I'll give you my cell number by pm sometime.

[TarzansKat]

Aren't moms great for making sure everyone knows it's your 30th bday? UGH.

I mean, she had to say 30. :lmao:


As far as the bag situation goes, yuck--I am having the same quandry. And, yeah, the ticker has changed. Again. I'll start my PTR tonight with the whole sordid story. And it is. Sordid. And a story. Of course, based on my dining reservations, we won't be at any of the same parks on the same day. We'll still have to arrange a Dismeet of some sort. I'll give you my cell number by pm sometime.

I have plans to go out a bit with DS on Tuesday, so I'm thinking about loading the bag up and wearing it around to see how I like it. Heck, I'll plan a little day trip for us just to try it out. We have so many planned for the summer anyway!

Sordid, huh?

All I know is that I feel like I'm watching a little whirlwind. And hey, my plans are somewhat flexible. We're park hopping so, I'm sure we could work in a meet somewhere. :thumbsup2

[creativeamanda]

Yeah--I started the PTR--now I have to update the TR. Thank heavens it's summer and I only work 3 days a week. I'd never get all of this Dising done, otherwise. :rotfl2:

[maroo]

Wow! I think I have update overload! :lmao:

First of all...DIS meet at the SPA??? I am so jealous!!

Sounds awesome. :)


The pics of the Baggallini are the best I have ever seen. You are so organized!!

One thing on the Baggallini...I tend to switch mine around. Sometimes I wear it so that it falls on the front of me...sorta like a fanny pack. I don't think it looks all that great, honestly, but I don't care because I won't ever see most of these people again. ;) It helps me sorta move it around so that it is not always putting pressure on my back, shoulder, etc.

I also put it on different lengths...so one hour it may be longer on me and the next I may tighten it up so that it will be tighter. That is just how I wear it. If you decide to keep it, you may want to try some different ways of wearing it. :)

Your picture in your PJ's cracks me up. I fully expect a cropped Robe picture. You crazy DISers. :)


I think it is great that you will be getting an AP...because it will expire right about the time that some other special DISers will be in the World...sure would be nice to have a TK DISmeet! :rolleyes1 Look at me trying to plan DIS meets years in advance. :rotfl2:

Awesome update! :)

Now I am going to bed. He he.

[TarzansKat]

Yeah--I started the PTR--now I have to update the TR. Thank heavens it's summer and I only work 3 days a week. I'd never get all of this Dising done, otherwise. :rotfl2:

I work 4 days a week year round, and I swear, it's darn near impossible for me to get on the DIS during my work days. That's why I'm so update heavy on the weekends.

Wow! I think I have update overload! :lmao:

First of all...DIS meet at the SPA??? I am so jealous!!

Sounds awesome. :)

I'm really looking forward to it. I've been to the Grand Floridian spa before and I absolutely love it there. I'm telling you, that resort is my mothership. :thumbsup2


The pics of the Baggallini are the best I have ever seen. You are so organized!!

I just know so many of my readers got involved in that discussion, and I find a lot of times when you're looking at bags online, they don't take extensive photos of all the different compartments, or even offer good descriptions!


One thing on the Baggallini...I tend to switch mine around. Sometimes I wear it so that it falls on the front of me...sorta like a fanny pack. I don't think it looks all that great, honestly, but I don't care because I won't ever see most of these people again. ;) It helps me sorta move it around so that it is not always putting pressure on my back, shoulder, etc.

I also put it on different lengths...so one hour it may be longer on me and the next I may tighten it up so that it will be tighter. That is just how I wear it. If you decide to keep it, you may want to try some different ways of wearing it. :)

Thank you for the advice! Honestly, I know I'll be switching it to the front when we go on rides, or having it my lap because it just wouldn't be comfortable to not be able to sit, you know?

So your recommendation is a very good one, I could definitely play around with different lengths and see if one works better for me, and then change it up during the day as well. :thumbsup2


I fully expect a cropped Robe picture. You crazy DISers. :)

Of course!


I think it is great that you will be getting an AP...because it will expire right about the time that some other special DISers will be in the World...sure would be nice to have a TK DISmeet! :rolleyes1 Look at me trying to plan DIS meets years in advance. :rotfl2:

Awesome update! :)

Now I am going to bed. He he.

I am seriously going to have to remind myself of when Maroo is going to the World. I would LOVE to meet you there. :goodvibes Between the trips and the changes, I got confused. :lmao:

[maroo]

I am seriously going to have to remind myself of when Maroo is going to the World. I would LOVE to meet you there. :goodvibes Between the trips and the changes, I got confused. :lmao:


I don't know why you are getting confused?! :rotfl:

I only change my mind twice a month. :confused3

[All7OfUs]

I can think of ONE trip she better NOT change her mind about! :lmao:

[eandesmom]

Hee hee.

Well, there was a lot of trip excitement and activity this week.
So since I have two lovely days just the three of us, I really felt okay talking to Mom about going to the spa. It was something I'd thought about doing, because it is my birthday, and it would be a nice treat.


I don't know what it is really. I guess because this is my 30th birthday trip and I'd already made so many compromises on it.
So Mom and I both checked out the website, decided what we wanted, and called yesterday to book it.

We're going to the Grand Floridian Spa (is there any other in TK's world?) on the morning of Thurs, Oct 1st, and we're both having aromatherapy massages and spa pedicures. Now I'm paying my own way, but as a special treat for my birthday, Mom threw in the paraffin treatment for hands and feet for the two of us.

We're going to be pampered. And relaxed. And feeling thoroughly spoiled. And I LOVE IT! We'll get there a bit early, since our appts are later morning, and just enjoy the spa and relax and become acclimated to being pampered. :cloud9:
NOT headless, no less! :lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:


"And my daughter will be turning thirty; we're celebrating her birthday."


:lmao:


YOU (and your mom) deserve it. I hope they strew rose petals and you drink fabulous herbal tea and eat a banana. And post a HEAD ON picture!
Ugh.

That's pretty much how I feel about this right now. Big....ole....ugh.

Here's what I've been doing all morning, folks. Taking tons of pics of the different bags I have in my posession in the quest to find the ultimate park bag. The bag that will serve all my needs while hopefully being somewhat stylish, easy to carry, and easy to fit under the stroller.

I'm so close to ready to give up.

Here's the Baggalini. I know a lot of you have either ordered, have, or been thinking about this one, so I took some photos of it empty for you.


And then I tried to fill it with everything. And I have to say, the organization of this bag is lovely.
Here's the catch. I like it. It's sporty. It's cute. But check out how low it hangs on me. Even when I adjust it, it's still pretty low on my back. Now, I know that for the majority of the trip, this will be in the bottom of the stroller. It'll most likely come out briefly while we're on rides, to get the camera, things like that. So it may not be a huge issue. But if I view it as something I'd like to possibly use in the future, I'm not sure. The size of it is perfect, and it really does fit everything I want. The problem that I have with it is the way it pulls on my lower back. Even when I tighten the strap it doesn't seem to help too much. I'm just not quite tall enough, I guess. I'm wondering if there are any other baggalini styles that I might like better?

So then I thought, well let me throw everything in my Vera and see how I feel.

Now I sort of threw everything in, this would be way more organized if it were really packed for the trip.

Then I tried this smaller purse style Travelon Mom gave me a while ago. Everything fits and it's very organized, but it's fit to bursting, no room at the inn.


So my last resort is my little Mickey purse and a tote bag.


Now I won't deny there are some benefits to having my stuff completely separate from DS. And this definitely makes it easy to find things, but I'll need myself or someone to carry that tote bag onto rides with us because I won't feel comfortable leaving it in the stroller. So, most likely, one of the menfolk (my FIL is a gracious helper) would be happy to carry it for me, but on the off chance that's not a possibility, I don't like how it feels to carry both of those. Never mind we'll have our ponchos in the stroller as well.

Decisions, decisions.

I really don't know what to do. I'm not entirely satsified with any of my options. Maybe a pro/con list would help.

Ugh. :lmao:

um.

you think too hard.

bring more than one

be flexible.

change your mind half way though

It's your birthday.

ok. Seriously. It is a bag. It, nor any replacement, will never be perfect. That's why there are so many options. You are lucky. You have a stroller.

AKA STORAGE

Without the locker fee. Or the go back to the room time fee.


You could (if you wanted) stick the little mickey bag inside the bagallini and then have all options at any moment (but I don't want to confuse the issue)
It has a basket. Does the basket care about cute pockets? Does it actually hinder finding things if you have to drag it out of the basket to find stuff (maybe, but then again, that well could be just me. lol)

All that said. Here is my 2 (5?) cents.

Don't bring a bag you won't feel good carrying on its own. You will resent the bag. If you go into it with the "it's a stroller bag" mentality that's one thing, but if it's supposed to do double duty, love it or leave it. Really. Trust me.

Consider the keeping stuff separate idea. This will happen as your son ages. You might need less than you think you need....

Don't be afraid to make the men carry it ALL in a backpack. It is quite freeing. Capri's with cargo pockets hold....KTTW/ID/lip gloss/camera. What more does one need that can't be schlepped in a backpack by the buys, or stored in a locker?

:)

[TarzansKat]

I don't know why you are getting confused?! :rotfl:

I only change my mind twice a month. :confused3

I know, right? You're downright predictable. ;)

I can think of ONE trip she better NOT change her mind about! :lmao:

:rotfl2: Darn tootin'!

And post a HEAD ON picture!

Hmm. I will consider this. What precisely are you offering in return? :lmao:


um.

you think too hard.

bring more than one

be flexible.

change your mind half way though

It's your birthday.


:rotfl2: I'm not laughing at you, I'm laughing at me. Honestly.


ok. Seriously. It is a bag. It, nor any replacement, will never be perfect. That's why there are so many options. You are lucky. You have a stroller.

AKA STORAGE

Without the locker fee. Or the go back to the room time fee.


And, this is most likely my last year of said storage, so I plan to enjoy it. I also know, however, that the boy likes a combo of walk/stroll (as he did when we went to the zoo) so we may be parking that puppy at a certain point.


You could (if you wanted) stick the little mickey bag inside the bagallini and then have all options at any moment (but I don't want to confuse the issue)
It has a basket. Does the basket care about cute pockets? Does it actually hinder finding things if you have to drag it out of the basket to find stuff (maybe, but then again, that well could be just me. lol)

And in actuality, I could easily carry two totes. One with the ponchos in it, and one empty inside the ponchos. If the bag got too heavy or felt weird, I'm sure I could coerce...I mean, persuade one of the men to carry the tote for me.


All that said. Here is my 2 (5?) cents.

Don't bring a bag you won't feel good carrying on its own. You will resent the bag. If you go into it with the "it's a stroller bag" mentality that's one thing, but if it's supposed to do double duty, love it or leave it. Really. Trust me.

You're right. I know you're right. This is all part of my thriftiness. I can't consciously spend money on something I think I'm only going to use once. It has to be able to last. That's why I get so frustrated with the ten dollar backpacks from Walmart. One trip and they're done.

Par example, my debating over sandals. You see how long it took me to decide on those. :lmao:


Consider the keeping stuff separate idea. This will happen as your son ages. You might need less than you think you need....

My biggest worry for him is a bathroom accident. As in, not making it in time. It's rare, very rare, but it still happens to us sometimes. And in that case, I would rather carry around a spare outfit than have to buy one.

Remind me to tell you about the time I had to walk the entire World Showcase during dinner because I didn't have enough spare clothes for him. :rotfl2:


Don't be afraid to make the men carry it ALL in a backpack. It is quite freeing. Capri's with cargo pockets hold....KTTW/ID/lip gloss/camera. What more does one need that can't be schlepped in a backpack by the buys, or stored in a locker?

:)

See, my husband is totally willing to carry a backpack, which is a huge plus. The problem for me would be finding a backpack that actually fit under the stroller without a lot of fuss, and something that would last.

I'm almost tempted to head over to LL Bean and see what their latest styles are. Those things are indestructible, I had one all through high school and most of college and it was awesome.

In conclusion, I thank you for your take on things. I always love reading your posts, because you look at everything in such a great light. It makes me laugh and not take myself so seriously. :goodvibes

I really do like the baggalini. I think it's adorable, and I'm shocked that it fits everything.

[MegansMom]

UGGGHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The quest for the PERFECT PARK BAG!!!!!! I was so hoping I was done with this after last year, but alas, another year, another trip, ANOTHER STINKING BAG to fret over!!!! When I find mine, I'll let you know.....and vice versa, k?!!???!?! At least we are here for each other for good moral support! ;)

[TarzansKat]

UGGGHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The quest for the PERFECT PARK BAG!!!!!! I was so hoping I was done with this after last year, but alas, another year, another trip, ANOTHER STINKING BAG to fret over!!!! When I find mine, I'll let you know.....and vice versa, k?!!???!?! At least we are here for each other for good moral support! ;)

I always appreciate a comrade at arms! What are you thinking of? :goodvibes

[MegansMom]

Probably something along the way of a Vera.....either the Mailbag or one of their backpack versions. I am working on updating my list of what I am taking with me into the parks this year....it has changed since last year.

[TarzansKat]

Probably something along the way of a Vera.....either the Mailbag or one of their backpack versions. I am working on updating my list of what I am taking with me into the parks this year....it has changed since last year.

I was just looking on your PTR and saw you talking with LL about the mailbag. :goodvibes I do love a good Vera. I was so dissappointed when the hipster came and was so defective.

[MegansMom]

That is just SO WEIRD!!!!

[TarzansKat]

That is just SO WEIRD!!!!

I know! Because honestly, I was more excited about that bag than anything else I've seen or tried, including the Baggalini. I literally squealed with delight when I opened it. :lmao:

[If U Had Wings]

The day at the spa sounds wonderful. I'll be waiting to hear all about it, and I'll be taking notes. I'm dying to do one of the grapefruit treatments in December. I love the idea of wearing the tiaras too. What fun!

I hope one of bags ends up working for you. The only time I've ever found my Baggalini heavy was when I used it to carry my laptop around, and luckily that wasn't in Disney. It does hang a bit low on your back, but for me I actually prefer that a bit. The pockets were just wonderful!

[TarzansKat]

The day at the spa sounds wonderful. I'll be waiting to hear all about it, and I'll be taking notes. I'm dying to do one of the grapefruit treatments in December. I love the idea of wearing the tiaras too. What fun!

You should definitely treat yourself. I love going to the spa, I haven't been in years. I can't wait!


I hope one of bags ends up working for you. The only time I've ever found my Baggalini heavy was when I used it to carry my laptop around, and luckily that wasn't in Disney. It does hang a bit low on your back, but for me I actually prefer that a bit. The pockets were just wonderful!

See, I think you might be a little bit taller than me. I'm guessing from your photos, though. I'm 5'4". I actually think the Baggalini would fit my husband perfectly, but he almost gave me the evil eye when I suggested that. If he's going to wear a bag, he wants it to be a straight up, normal backpack.

Honestly, I should probably find myself a Vera and just buy him a $10 backpack I know we'll ruin and call it a day. :lmao:

[MegansMom]

Now THAT is a GREAT idea!!!!! Now is the time to score a great deal on a backpack too.....back to school sales and all!!!!

[TarzansKat]

Now THAT is a GREAT idea!!!!! Now is the time to score a great deal on a backpack too.....back to school sales and all!!!!

God bless you for enabling me. :lmao:

[jenjolt]

Well as far as park bags for me I have 2 I will most likely be bringing with me...my new Vera Mailbag which is bigger than the hipster (which I love but can't pack that light) and smaller than the cargo sling (which I also love but don't want to carry that much)! I also have an Eddie Bauer backpack that I purchased at Target for about 30.00 and have scotchguarded it...so far it has made it through 2 Disney trips and I'm loving it!! Plenty of space for all my things that I need, a nice water bottle holder, and the best part the back along with the straps are padded so it doesn't dig into my shoulders!! I love this thing...it has been affectionately named my My Mary Poppins Carpet Backpack LOL...its that awesome!

Of course I will have the Backpack during the day and the Mailbag for lighter occassions where I don't want to carry the backpack around with me LOL!

I hope you find some light at the end of the tunnel that is park bag dilemna!!!

[TarzansKat]

Well as far as park bags for me I have 2 I will most likely be bringing with me...my new Vera Mailbag which is bigger than the hipster (which I love but can't pack that light) and smaller than the cargo sling (which I also love but don't want to carry that much)! I also have an Eddie Bauer backpack that I purchased at Target for about 30.00 and have scotchguarded it...so far it has made it through 2 Disney trips and I'm loving it!! Plenty of space for all my things that I need, a nice water bottle holder, and the best part the back along with the straps are padded so it doesn't dig into my shoulders!! I love this thing...it has been affectionately named my My Mary Poppins Carpet Backpack LOL...its that awesome!

Of course I will have the Backpack during the day and the Mailbag for lighter occassions where I don't want to carry the backpack around with me LOL!

I hope you find some light at the end of the tunnel that is park bag dilemna!!!

Your park bag concept is closer to what we usually do. I'm of the same mind about the Veras. The hipster looks like a good size for me, the mailbag is intriguing, and I know I don't want to carry the cargo sling, because it's just too much.

We've in the past used my small messenger bag which has sadly died, and a backpack. The small bag was my purse, and held the camera and autograph book and things that needed to be readily accessible. The backpack held all the stuff for DS that only needed to come out if necessary, like wipes, extra clothes, etc.

I'm just frugal. There, I said it. And I really am now looking at purchasing two park bags, not one. Because of the deaths of our black backpack from last year and my small bag. And the thought is definitely frustrating.

I like the compartments on the Baggalini a lot, but the Vera is more my style. And if I buy a new backpack, and it's black and masculine looking, my DH will carry it, no issue.

Decisions, decisions.
:lmao:

[jenjolt]

Your park bag concept is closer to what we usually do. I'm of the same mind about the Veras. The hipster looks like a good size for me, the mailbag is intriguing, and I know I don't want to carry the cargo sling, because it's just too much.

We've in the past used my small messenger bag which has sadly died, and a backpack. The small bag was my purse, and held the camera and autograph book and things that needed to be readily accessible. The backpack held all the stuff for DS that only needed to come out if necessary, like wipes, extra clothes, etc.

I'm just frugal. There, I said it. And I really am now looking at purchasing two park bags, not one. Because of the deaths of our black backpack from last year and my small bag. And the thought is definitely frustrating.

I like the compartments on the Baggalini a lot, but the Vera is more my style. And if I buy a new backpack, and it's black and masculine looking, my DH will carry it, no issue.

Decisions, decisions.
:lmao:

No kidding!!! This is quite the quandry...sort of like me and park shoes LOL (oh wait you've done that too LOL)!!!!

I really like the organization of the Baggalini that was just a slice of heaven how many compartments you had at your disposal. The one thing about a backpack is that its hard to keep organized at times! I try to make it work but it can be frustrating!!!

Maybe you need a trip to Target or Wal-mart and see what they have backpack wise and see if you fall in love with something there...that might be the easiest of the bag issues to solve!

[TarzansKat]

No kidding!!! This is quite the quandry...sort of like me and park shoes LOL (oh wait you've done that too LOL)!!!!

Shoes are very, very important to me. There's nothing worse than aching tooties at the end of the day. :lmao:


I really like the organization of the Baggalini that was just a slice of heaven how many compartments you had at your disposal. The one thing about a backpack is that its hard to keep organized at times! I try to make it work but it can be frustrating!!!

I usually solve that by separating things into Ziploc bags. It's a little OCD, but it really works very well. DS' spare outfit in one. Jams in another. Toys in another. It helps. :thumbsup2


Maybe you need a trip to Target or Wal-mart and see what they have backpack wise and see if you fall in love with something there...that might be the easiest of the bag issues to solve!

I'm actually on Walmart's website right now. I'm going to check them out, put a couple in the cart and ask DH what he thinks when he gets home. Truthfully, it's his backpack. :lmao:

[jenjolt]

Shoes are very, very important to me. There's nothing worse than aching tooties at the end of the day. :lmao:



I usually solve that by separating things into Ziploc bags. It's a little OCD, but it really works very well. DS' spare outfit in one. Jams in another. Toys in another. It helps. :thumbsup2



I'm actually on Walmart's website right now. I'm going to check them out, put a couple in the cart and ask DH what he thinks when he gets home. Truthfully, it's his backpack. :lmao:

Oh it is so nice to know I'm not the only one who puts Ziploc bags on the shopping list for Disney...I might even buy two different types of sizes LOL!!! I think I'm on the same wavelength with you on the OCD thing!

YAY...hopefully you will find something that he likes!!!!!:rotfl2:

[TarzansKat]

Oh it is so nice to know I'm not the only one who puts Ziploc bags on the shopping list for Disney...I might even buy two different types of sizes LOL!!! I think I'm on the same wavelength with you on the OCD thing!

I don't know if I've ever admitted it before, but they are always on my shopping list. I take a ton extra as well. They're so handy. DS has an accident? Wet clothes go into a ziploc. Want to save part of your pretzel you didn't finish? Ziploc! :lmao:


YAY...hopefully you will find something that he likes!!!!!:rotfl2:

There are two on there that I would consider. I'll show him when he gets home from work. I'm going to look at Target's website now. :thumbsup2

[eandesmom]

Jumping in on the backpack. Ours gets a TON of use/abuse. I find, if you go cheap on the backpack...it will not last. Personally I'd be leery of long time survival with Target or Walmart and would check LLBean, REI and ebags.

We have an REI branded one that is pretty nifty, it is a medium sized back with a smaller zip on pack that can be used in tandem, or solo with it. That thing is indestructible, it's at least 8 years old.

I use LL bean for the kids school backpacks. I've never had to replace one because it's worn out. I've needed to upgrade size and have caved on new style/color after 3 years of use but they are all in amazing condition.

I am a BIG fan of the REI outlet (http://www.rei.com/outlet/search?cat=22000016&cat=22000113&hist=cat%2C22000016%3ABackpacks^cat%2C22000113%3AD ay+Packs).


Plus you can usually find a free shipping or $5 off coupon with LL Bean lol!

I've considered getting myself a new one and have almost bought from ebags but....restrained. We had another good daypack that disappeared that I need to replace. One of these days!

You will want a change of clothes for DS but no need to carry it on your shoulder! :)

[TarzansKat]

Jumping in on the backpack. Ours gets a TON of use/abuse. I find, if you go cheap on the backpack...it will not last. Personally I'd be leery of long time survival with Target or Walmart and would check LLBean, REI and ebags.

In my heart, I know you're right. And those LLBean bags last forever! I've never checked out REI, I'll have to take a look, thanks for the outlet link. Now what brands would you recommend on ebags? I've looked on that site before but I don't even know where to start, it's so overwhelming. :lmao:


You will want a change of clothes for DS but no need to carry it on your shoulder! :)

It's true. Then I could justify trying to find myself a new Vera on Ebay. ;)

[If U Had Wings]

See, I think you might be a little bit taller than me. I'm guessing from your photos, though. I'm 5'4". I actually think the Baggalini would fit my husband perfectly, but he almost gave me the evil eye when I suggested that. If he's going to wear a bag, he wants it to be a straight up, normal backpack.

I'm a bit closer to 5'5". I think technically it's something like 5'5 3/4" or something like that. I usually only wear my Baggalinni over one shoulder though so that may make a difference. I hate wearing things across my body because the strap always falls right between my chest when I do and I detest that look. :rotfl: Most things I can live with, but that just drives me nuts. Especially at Disney when I'm having my pictures taken all the time.

I know that the LL Bean knapsacks are pricey, but really they last ages, and they really stand by their lifetime guarantee. Trust me on that one, I've seen my brother send back a scary pair of slippers and they sent him a brand new pair with no questions at all. It's one of the reasons I don't mind spending a bit more on LL Bean for things like bags, luggage, etc. I actually have a knapsack I was going to send back myself. I've had it since college, but the inner lining started to disintegrate. I figure why not use the lifetime guarantee?

[MegansMom]

I love ziploc bags.....I think I know use like three different sizes for things on our Disney trips!!! THEY ARE THE BEST!

[eandesmom]

In my heart, I know you're right. And those LLBean bags last forever! I've never checked out REI, I'll have to take a look, thanks for the outlet link. Now what brands would you recommend on ebags? I've looked on that site before but I don't even know where to start, it's so overwhelming. :lmao:


I agree, they have some great stuff but it is a bit mind boggling! 298 black daypacks to choose from lol! Part of it depends on how much you want to spend of course.

I'd personally look at North Face, Kelty or even Dakine. Dakine is kind of a skater brand but T's backpack has held up unbelievably well and they are kind of hip looking (some of them).

Jansport is also good.

If I had to replace ours today...this (http://www.ebags.com/jansport/revolt/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=122127&productid=1316390)might do

or this (http://www.ebags.com/kelty/range/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=95546&productid=1240805)

this (http://www.ebags.com/the_north_face/swerve/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=88974&productid=1167731)

or even this (http://www.ebags.com/dakine/pivot_pack/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=133591&productid=1294772). Sure it's a skater pack but I like the smaller size and pockets.

It's true. Then I could justify trying to find myself a new Vera on Ebay.

:thumbsup2

that's my kind of thinking.

[TarzansKat]

I'm a bit closer to 5'5". I think technically it's something like 5'5 3/4" or something like that. I usually only wear my Baggalinni over one shoulder though so that may make a difference. I hate wearing things across my body because the strap always falls right between my chest when I do and I detest that look. :rotfl: Most things I can live with, but that just drives me nuts. Especially at Disney when I'm having my pictures taken all the time.

Ah, I see. I did try throwing it over my shoulder as well, but it only felt comfortable going over my left which is not what I'm used to.


I know that the LL Bean knapsacks are pricey, but really they last ages, and they really stand by their lifetime guarantee. Trust me on that one, I've seen my brother send back a scary pair of slippers and they sent him a brand new pair with no questions at all. It's one of the reasons I don't mind spending a bit more on LL Bean for things like bags, luggage, etc. I actually have a knapsack I was going to send back myself. I've had it since college, but the inner lining started to disintegrate. I figure why not use the lifetime guarantee?

I know, you really can't beat that lifetime guarantee. It is worth the price, that's for sure. And I know they're good quality. Plus, I could always get one monogrammed with DS' initials and have him use it for school when he's old enough. :thumbsup2

[TarzansKat]

I love ziploc bags.....I think I know use like three different sizes for things on our Disney trips!!! THEY ARE THE BEST!

See, it's a love that cannot be denied.

I agree, they have some great stuff but it is a bit mind boggling! 298 black daypacks to choose from lol! Part of it depends on how much you want to spend of course.

I'd personally look at North Face, Kelty or even Dakine. Dakine is kind of a skater brand but T's backpack has held up unbelievably well and they are kind of hip looking (some of them).

Jansport is also good.

If I had to replace ours today...this (http://www.ebags.com/jansport/revolt/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=122127&productid=1316390)might do

or this (http://www.ebags.com/kelty/range/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=95546&productid=1240805)

this (http://www.ebags.com/the_north_face/swerve/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=88974&productid=1167731)

or even this (http://www.ebags.com/dakine/pivot_pack/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=133591&productid=1294772). Sure it's a skater pack but I like the smaller size and pockets.



:thumbsup2

that's my kind of thinking.

Thanks for the tips. It's amazing how many different kinds of bags they have, and I just wouldn't know what a good brand is. Thanks! :goodvibes

[eandesmom]

Ah, I see. I did try throwing it over my shoulder as well, but it only felt comfortable going over my left which is not what I'm used to.


that was my issue with my baggallini....which is why I've never actually used it.

I know, you really can't beat that lifetime guarantee. It is worth the price, that's for sure. And I know they're good quality. Plus, I could always get one monogrammed with DS' initials and have him use it for school when he's old enough. :thumbsup2

Bear in mind that the colors DS wants may not be what your DH want's to carry around :) but then again...you do realize don't you...that the original bookpack (skip the junior!) comes in a lovely DIS lime green!

;)

my kids had the original for K-2nd, DS10 upgraded to the deluxe in 3rd to cart sports gear. That thing is HUGE! He conned me into a High Sierra for next school year and it will be interesting to see how it performs. To me, $30 for a pack that lasts at least 3 years with daily kid use...versus buying a new cheapo drugstore one every year...is SO worth it! Their lunchboxes are the bomb!

[TarzansKat]

that was my issue with my baggallini....which is why I've never actually used it.

The reason I keep coming back to it though, is that everything fits in it...so well. And that, honestly, is what gets me. Backpacks, while great, especially given that I don't have to carry it ;), are a pain in the rear to get into and out of the stroller compartment.


Bear in mind that the colors DS wants may not be what your DH want's to carry around :) but then again...you do realize don't you...that the original bookpack (skip the junior!) comes in a lovely DIS lime green!

;)

HA! DH would deal, trust me. Because if it were really a backpack for DS, I'd let him pick the color. Lord knows what we'd end up with. I let him pick out his very first pair of Crocs, I thought he'd go for green or blue...nope. YELLOW. :lmao:

And I definitely wouldn't get the junior. Just doesn't make sense to me. I like the original one, or the expanded.

[If U Had Wings]

Ah, I see. I did try throwing it over my shoulder as well, but it only felt comfortable going over my left which is not what I'm used to.

Ahhh. I'm a left shoulder person when it comes to bags, other than when I'm going down steps (and I have to switch shoulders). When I do wear it across my body I always get annoyed that I can't sling it across the other side of my body. I guess I just have shoulder issues. I'm such the weirdo sometimes. :lmao:

[TarzansKat]

Ahhh. I'm a left shoulder person when it comes to bags, other than when I'm going down steps (and I have to switch shoulders). When I do wear it across my body I always get annoyed that I can't sling it across the other side of my body. I guess I just have shoulder issues. I'm such the weirdo sometimes. :lmao:

Dude. I'm the one who wrote a whole chapter about what bag to take to Disney including detailed labeled pictures.

And you're calling yourself a weirdo? :lmao:

[eandesmom]

And I definitely wouldn't get the junior. Just doesn't make sense to me. I like the original one, or the expanded.

I am not sure about the size of the expanded versus the deluxe on a 5 year old but the original was quite big on both my kids at that age.

Check 'em out :) this is pathetic that I have these so easily available. I need to get out of the house today I think!

http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k308/eandesmom/Family/Kids/firstdayofschool2006-09.jpg

http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k308/eandesmom/Family/Kids/firstdayofschool2006-04.jpg

http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k308/eandesmom/Family/Kids/MyPictures0029.jpg

http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k308/eandesmom/Family/Kids/MyPictures0031.jpg

DS-now10 is the kid with the blue camo....it's huge on him and that's the original

Check it out though. DS-now10 is in the first picture in front with the same backpack as in the bottom 2 pictures. 2 years later it still looked brand new!

[TarzansKat]

I think I've told you before, but your kids are ADORABLE!!!

And thanks for the photos! Don't leave the house, stay and play and DIS, my friend! I'm having a lazy day, join me. :lmao:

Wow, those do look plenty big. Is that the one that costs $27.95? I'm thinking it is.

[eandesmom]

I think I've told you before, but your kids are ADORABLE!!!

And thanks for the photos! Don't leave the house, stay and play and DIS, my friend! I'm having a lazy day, join me. :lmao:

Wow, those do look plenty big. Is that the one that costs $27.95? I'm thinking it is.

Awww, thanks! LOL! they were cuter in K. It cracks me up to look at those, DS10 looks like a baby! He RAN to the bus the first day of school in that picture....never looked back.

Yep, that's the $27.95 one. It is quite big. The deluxe is insane!

Which is a good thing if you are packing a full change of clothes including sports gear, it has a whole 2nd section. But for K it would have been WAYYYYY too huge. DS8 is getting a new one for fall (he doesn't know it) and I did the same exact one as before, just in blue.

Off to leave the house....summerball starts tonight and of course it is 60 and cloudy :(

But....I'll be back! lol!

[TarzansKat]

Awww, thanks! LOL! they were cuter in K. It cracks me up to look at those, DS10 looks like a baby! He RAN to the bus the first day of school in that picture....never looked back.

I hope that's how it is for my DS.

Then he won't be able to see my tears! :lmao:

I'm sure he'll be that way. He wants to go to preschool now on days he's not scheduled, he's very into it.


Off to leave the house....summerball starts tonight and of course it is 60 and cloudy :(

But....I'll be back! lol!

Hope you have a good night anyway! :goodvibes

[Native NYer]

OMG, JEN!!!! How are you? I've missed you! :goodvibes

I've missed you too!!! And the DIS and my obsessive trip planning.

I am so impressed with your bag photos. So much catching up to do here.

How is your summer going?

[If U Had Wings]

Dude. I'm the one who wrote a whole chapter about what bag to take to Disney including detailed labeled pictures.

And you're calling yourself a weirdo? :lmao:

I may not be as picky when it comes to a particular bag for Disney, but I have major issues when it comes to what shoulder I carry it on. :lmao: I have a 15 min. walk from Grand Central to my office and have an entire plan for when I have to switch shoulders. Really serious issues! I'm definitely a weirdo. :)

[TarzansKat]

I've missed you too!!! And the DIS and my obsessive trip planning.

I am so impressed with your bag photos. So much catching up to do here.

How is your summer going?

Thanks on the bag photos. I figured they'd be useful to someone, and at the very least, I'm convincing myself how great that baggalini is. :lmao:

My summer is going really well, actually. DS and I are getting out and doing a lot of day trips, swimming at my grandmother's, so we're really having some fun. It'll fly by and before I know it, it'll be time for my trip! :thumbsup2

I may not be as picky when it comes to a particular bag for Disney, but I have major issues when it comes to what shoulder I carry it on. :lmao: I have a 15 min. walk from Grand Central to my office and have an entire plan for when I have to switch shoulders. Really serious issues! I'm definitely a weirdo. :)

Okay, that deserves some :worship::worship::worship:

I bow down to your bag wearing prowess.

Seriously. Maybe you could help me develop a strategy for wearing my bagg. ;)

[All7OfUs]

Been not so active lately, so have missed a fair amount of bag discussion. I so go back and forth over bag, or no bag. Lanyard with important stuff and camera in hand, or lots of extra stuff like bandaids and aspirin.

So, I guess the first thing for me to do, is make up my mind on that, THEN I can tackle the next all-important question... WHAT bag...

Oh, I'm very, very NOT ready to go there yet.

But, I do like your bag and all it's photo-ness glory. You'll look great with it! Not that a bag would make you look great, you already do, I guess. But having not seen you...:rolleyes1

[TarzansKat]

Been not so active lately, so have missed a fair amount of bag discussion. I so go back and forth over bag, or no bag. Lanyard with important stuff and camera in hand, or lots of extra stuff like bandaids and aspirin.

Honestly, you're better off having missed most of that conversation. If I could get more wishy-washy, I'd be surprised. :lmao:


So, I guess the first thing for me to do, is make up my mind on that, THEN I can tackle the next all-important question... WHAT bag...

Oh, I'm very, very NOT ready to go there yet.

I hear you! I'm here, and I don't want to be here.


But, I do like your bag and all it's photo-ness glory. You'll look great with it! Not that a bag would make you look great, you already do, I guess. But having not seen you...:rolleyes1

My goodness, you are all quite a wily bunch. Dying to see my almost thirty year old mug, eh? ;)

By the by, I did a trial run with the bagg, and I'll be posting my thoughts shortly.

[maroo]

By the by, I did a trial run with the bagg, and I'll be posting my thoughts shortly.


popcorn:: popcorn:: :surfweb:


At least this time it is on your own trip report! :rotfl:

[TarzansKat]

popcorn:: popcorn:: :surfweb:


At least this time it is on your own trip report! :rotfl:

Oh, for pete's sake. Do you lurk around my thread waiting for me to say something like that? :rotfl2:

[TarzansKat]

Maroo, are you happy now? :lmao:

Okay, folks. I did a dry run with the Bagg today. DS and I had a full day. Let me share it with you.

First we went to the dentist. It's a long story, but DS has a crack in one of his teeth. We were worried, but it's nothing to be worried about, but I'm glad I took him. Because now our dentist has a frame of reference, so when he has his next cleaning, if it's gotten worse we can reassess it then. He's not in any pain at all and hasn't shown any sensitivity to hot or cold, so we're just going to brush real good and hope for the best.

As to those of you who are wondering how my four year old got a crack in his tooth without us knowing? Well, we don't know. :lmao: Honestly, one day not there, next day, there. Very, very strange. We do have an issue with him absentmindedly putting toys in his mouth while he's watching TV, so it's possible he could have bit down on something, or eaten something hard, who knows. Thank goodness we don't have to have it pulled. Let's keep our fingers crossed that it stays that way.

Now our dentist appointment was at 945, and I was dying to make it back to our hometown (the dentist is one town away, 15-20 mintues) for a preschool story hour at the library that started at 1015. Fortunately, the dentist was quick, so DS picked a prize, and we booked it back to our town and the library. And we made it!

Now the joy of this story hour is that you leave your child there for the hour, and they're read to and do little activities with the children's librarian. Very, very nice. I got some serious browsing done while he was in there. And he loved it, too, so that was a bonus!

Now keep in mind, the baggalini is packed. With everything. Like we're going on vacation. And I've been wearing it all morning. I wore it to the dentist, wore it around the library, and right before I was going to retrieve him from the story room, I put the bagg in the car.

Let's say I wore it for about...2 hours max.

It hurt.

A lot. I had a red mark on my shoulder (I'm wearing a tank today), and it was pulling. Not on my back, but on my shoulder.

You know what? It's a great bag. It's totally not right for me. It's unfortunate, but there you have it. It's not right for me. Because it hurts, and that people, is the key. Also, it felt quite inconvenient to have to flip it around to get my wallet or whatever I needed from it. It's not like the old messenger I had where I can just shift it from my backside to my hip to the front of me so easily.

So now I've got a new game plan. Return the baggalini asap, and march myself right over to the LLBean website. At the advice of eandesmom (did I spell that right), and at my own inner wisdom, I'm going to buy a LLBean backpack for this trip. I'm sick of buying $10 bags that only last us one trip. It's a waste of money. I'd rather buy something good that will last, and comes with a lifetime guarantee so that if we are the most destructive people on the planet and somehow manage to ruin our new backpack in eight days, we can easily return it and get a new one.

So here's the idea. We're going to wait until DS wakes up from his nap and let him pick the color. Then I'll get the pack monogrammed with his initials. If it lasts, he can use it when he goes to kindergarten and so on and so forth.

The only dilemma I have is whether or not to get the original backpack or the deluxe. The deluxe model has one more zippered compartment. We all know how OCD I am about keeping everything separate. So it's something to think about.

Which means in regard to me, we're back to square one. Would I love a new Vera? Sure. Would I love a hipster? Sure. Do I need a new bag? Nope. Am I watching a bazillion different Veras on Ebay right now? Yeah, why not.

So we'll see. How the chips fall. Where they lay. What happens. You know.

Bag drama. Don't you love it? :confused3

To end on a good note though, I have to say, today is the second time I've worn my black Keen sandals out and they feel really good, very, very supportive. So that's a plus, my friends.

Poor DH. He almost got away with me carrying everything.

Almost. ;)

[TarzansKat]

You know what I just realized? If I'm going to go back to school, does that mean I can have a new LLBean backpack? :rotfl2:

[MRYPPNS]

No bag drama for me. I order one. I like it. I keep it. I'm a brat, I know. The whole freakin' strap on this bag is padded! (it's LL Bean too)

I just got the Land's End Kids Backpack cat-o-log.....whollie mollie...tons of backpacks to choose from. I have a free shipping code. PM if you need it.

[eandesmom]

It hurt.

A lot. I had a red mark on my shoulder (I'm wearing a tank today), and it was pulling. Not on my back, but on my shoulder.


:(

So now I've got a new game plan. Return the baggalini asap, and march myself right over to the LLBean website. At the advice of eandesmom (did I spell that right), and at my own inner wisdom, I'm going to buy a LLBean backpack for this trip. I'm sick of buying $10 bags that only last us one trip. It's a waste of money. I'd rather buy something good that will last, and comes with a lifetime guarantee so that if we are the most destructive people on the planet and somehow manage to ruin our new backpack in eight days, we can easily return it and get a new one.


lol! yes, you spelled it right :)
Hey, one cool thing you might like (I do!) there is a key clip in the front pocket, I attach the boys wallets to theirs, it's fabu!

Do I need a new bag? Nope. Am I watching a bazillion different Veras on Ebay right now? Yeah, why not.

To end on a good note though, I have to say, today is the second time I've worn my black Keen sandals out and they feel really good, very, very supportive. So that's a plus, my friends.

Poor DH. He almost got away with me carrying everything.


:rotfl2:

[TarzansKat]

No bag drama for me. I order one. I like it. I keep it. I'm a brat, I know. The whole freakin' strap on this bag is padded! (it's LL Bean too)

Geez. Why do you have no bag drama? It's so not fair!!!! Mo-om!!! ;)

Just kidding. Wow, how padded is the strap? And which size did you order? I went to check those out and saw they came in two different sizes. And LOTS of different prints. :thumbsup2


I just got the Land's End Kids Backpack cat-o-log.....whollie mollie...tons of backpacks to choose from. I have a free shipping code. PM if you need it.

Huh. I'll go on their website, check it out, and let you know. Thanks. :goodvibes


Hey, one cool thing you might like (I do!) there is a key clip in the front pocket, I attach the boys wallets to theirs, it's fabu!

Hey, you would know this. Where can I get a little wallet for my son? Keeping in mind that he's four. I just want something he can carry cash and coin in. We're starting to work on saving our own money to buy toys we want, and I'd really love to have a wallet for him.



:rotfl2:

Poor DH. He'll find out all about it when he gets home. :rotfl:

[maroo]

:lmao:

No...I don't lurk on your TR waiting for you to leave the door W I D E open for me to throw in some popcorn. It was just something that was too good to resist!

In fact...I just realized that I am in invisible mode and my darn green light is not even on. That must really make you wonder. She was just here...and now she is gone. :confused3 Sorry about that.


I am sad the Bagg has gotta go. Mine is so comfy that I am shocked. :eek:

I definitely think you need to get your own backback for school and send HRH with a cheap Walmart one. He is going to want his "own" new backpack every single year he goes to school anyway. It is so much fun to shop for school stuff and "I already got you a backpack" and "Your backpack from last year is just fine" won't always work. :laughing:

But your books are going to be heavy! So you will NEED the nice one. ;)

[MRYPPNS]

Somehow I just ended up with a pair of shoes and 2 t-shirts from Lands End...dang cat-o-logs!

[TarzansKat]

:lmao:

No...I don't lurk on your TR waiting for you to leave the door W I D E open for me to throw in some popcorn. It was just something that was too good to resist!

In fact...I just realized that I am in invisible mode and my darn green light is not even on. That must really make you wonder. She was just here...and now she is gone. :confused3 Sorry about that.

You know, I have been wondering for days why it looks like you're never online. Now I know. :lmao:


I am sad the Bagg has gotta go. Mine is so comfy that I am shocked. :eek:


Different strokes.


I definitely think you need to get your own backback for school and send HRH with a cheap Walmart one. He is going to want his "own" new backpack every single year he goes to school anyway. It is so much fun to shop for school stuff and "I already got you a backpack" and "Your backpack from last year is just fine" won't always work. :laughing:

But your books are going to be heavy! So you will NEED the nice one. ;)

Actually, I was debating this very fact with my mom. She told me to put my initials on the bag. She said you could still let him pick the color. I said, heck no! If it's going to be my bookbag, it's going to be a color I like! :rotfl2:

And it is good for DS to have his own backpack, but you're right, kids do change their minds. Much more readily than I would, I think.

Ooo, this is exciting. I can't wait to show my DH the different choices when he gets home. Only another hour to go. :thumbsup2

[TarzansKat]

Somehow I just ended up with a pair of shoes and 2 t-shirts from Lands End...dang cat-o-logs!

I love the use of the word somehow. :lmao:

[pooh'smate]

I am glad that you figured out the baggalini will not work for you. I need to go back and look at your shoes. I really need some new ones and yours sound like they might work for me. I need some support for my feet.

Also I love my LL Bean Bag. Ihave had mine since college and it still looks new. I get 1/3 off because my dad works there.


I bought tickets today for our flight to Orlando. They were only $84 a person!!!:banana::banana::banana: Now it seems like we really are going. As a bonus we are now going 2 days early!!!!!!!

[eandesmom]

Hey, you would know this. Where can I get a little wallet for my son? Keeping in mind that he's four. I just want something he can carry cash and coin in. We're starting to work on saving our own money to buy toys we want, and I'd really love to have a wallet for him.



Why....the Disney store, of course! I also put ID info in there in case (god forbid) something happens, phone number info and a picture (usually a sports trading card lol).

Although interestingly enough, I just peeked online and didn't see any!

I think other ones we've just stumbled across at Target and places like that. Now of course DS10 has moved into "cool" ones (heaven forbid he still used the power rangers). They are one of those things that should be easy to find, but aren't.

I'd probably just search within amazon based on a character and you will likely find something.

DS8 has a cars one but it is different from both of these!

http://www.amazon.com/Disney-Cars-Wallet-bifold-wallet/dp/B000S2KYOC
http://cgi.ebay.com/McQUEEN-%26-MATER-TOW-child-boys-WALLET-Disney-Pixar-CARS_W0QQitemZ270233245249QQcmdZViewItem

[jmamom]

Ok now I really need to test my new baggalini out and see if I feel the same way. I can deal with a little inconvenience, but I can't deal with pain! I'm also on the shoe hunt, but first bag, then shoes. Hmm, I think I may have my priorities backwards?:goodvibes

[ILuvCrush]

TK I am saddened that the Bagg didn't work out for you:sad2: I hope that I have better luck with it. Although since I don't have 'little little' kids, I usually pack my park bag lighter than my purse... and believe me...THAT thing kills my shoulder:lmao:

I'll keep in mind to try to keep it light:thumbsup2


hope the Bean is the bag for you!!!

Paula

[jenjolt]

Awww...TK I'm so sorry to hear your bag didn't work out for you!!!! Hopefully though you will find something that will work and you will be happy with!!!!!

[TarzansKat]

I am glad that you figured out the baggalini will not work for you. I need to go back and look at your shoes. I really need some new ones and yours sound like they might work for me. I need some support for my feet.

If you can't find the right place in my PTR, I can always repost the picture for you. They're the Keen...Newports, I believe. I had to go up a size. I normally wear an 8 in shoes, sometimes an 8.5 in sandals, but to really feel comfy in those I needed a 9, just so you know. I order from places that do free shipping and returns though, so it's easy to exchange sizes.


Also I love my LL Bean Bag. Ihave had mine since college and it still looks new. I get 1/3 off because my dad works there.

I seriously wish I knew where mine was. I can picture it in my head, and I'm trying to remember the last time I had it. That would make my life so much easier if I could find it. :thumbsup2


I bought tickets today for our flight to Orlando. They were only $84 a person!!!:banana::banana::banana: Now it seems like we really are going. As a bonus we are now going 2 days early!!!!!!!

$84! Round Trip???? WOW!!!!!!!! :woohoo:

Why....the Disney store, of course! I also put ID info in there in case (god forbid) something happens, phone number info and a picture (usually a sports trading card lol).

Although interestingly enough, I just peeked online and didn't see any!

I'll bet you it's seasonal. Maybe as more back to school stuff comes out.


I think other ones we've just stumbled across at Target and places like that. Now of course DS10 has moved into "cool" ones (heaven forbid he still used the power rangers). They are one of those things that should be easy to find, but aren't.

I'd probably just search within amazon based on a character and you will likely find something.

DS8 has a cars one but it is different from both of these!

http://www.amazon.com/Disney-Cars-Wallet-bifold-wallet/dp/B000S2KYOC
http://cgi.ebay.com/McQUEEN-%26-MATER-TOW-child-boys-WALLET-Disney-Pixar-CARS_W0QQitemZ270233245249QQcmdZViewItem

Thank you so much. I fear you have become my go to person for all these types of questions since your boys are older than my son. I hope you don't mind. :hug:

Ok now I really need to test my new baggalini out and see if I feel the same way. I can deal with a little inconvenience, but I can't deal with pain! I'm also on the shoe hunt, but first bag, then shoes. Hmm, I think I may have my priorities backwards?:goodvibes

See, I'm all about shoes first, then bag.

Wait, did I just say that? :lmao: But that's pretty much the order I went in, so I guess those are my priorities! You know what it is? It's from working at the bank on a concrete floor covered with threadbare carpet that has made me so foot focused.

TK I am saddened that the Bagg didn't work out for you:sad2: I hope that I have better luck with it. Although since I don't have 'little little' kids, I usually pack my park bag lighter than my purse... and believe me...THAT thing kills my shoulder:lmao:

I'll keep in mind to try to keep it light:thumbsup2

Quite frankly, I think it would be a great bag for you! The problem is that I'm putting too much in there. And it's great, it's got the room, but it's not good to carry. For me, anyway. I think if you were using it like a normal purse, it would be awesome.

Awww...TK I'm so sorry to hear your bag didn't work out for you!!!! Hopefully though you will find something that will work and you will be happy with!!!!!

That's okay, Jen! I know I'll find something eventually.

I am TK.

HERE ME ARRRRRR!!!!!!! pirate: