9/12 great article ! Who am I to say no to going to WDW?

[IluvXU]

Welcome to our pretrip report! I am excited to be back to share the planning (which is half if not more of the fun) and all the adventures that we will have this summer at WDW!

Here is a picture of my family during our trip in June of 2008
http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/101_0159-1.jpg


Our family consist of:

Me, Laura, is the planner and dreamer of WDW trips. I cry everytime we leave, knowing it is the happiest place on earth. I love helping others get ready for trips (although a tad bit of envy does occur). I am a teacher, a really lucky one that job shares and therefore only works half day. It has been a great thing for me and my family because I have more time with the kids, yet I get to still teach which I love!

DH has tolerated my love of WDW (or so I thought) and usually wants nothing to do with the planning. He reviews menus and has thrown some curveballs in regards to meals. He cannot believe that ADRs are as essential I say until he decides weeks before that I need to get one. He works hard to take great care of our family and enjoys his princesses!

Hannah is our oldest, she is Snow White in her mind. Lately though she is really into the Disney Fairies and on the top of her Santa List was Tinkerbell's Pixie Hollow Playset. That girl could plan trips... she remembers so much of our previous trips and listens to Disney CDs everynight, probably dreaming of WDW! Right now she is obsessed with writing down the names of what she wants to do at WDW and drawing maps. Her favorite rides include Splash Mountain.

Then there is Emily, our middle child. She is the most determined child I know and she too loves the princesses, probably mostly because her sister makes her play with them. Jasmine is typically who she says she likes the most. Dumbo is her favorite ride!

Then we have our baby, Luke. He has no idea what is in store for him!


Here is a couple more trip pictures!

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/101_0119.jpg

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/101_0207.jpg

It was a fantastic trip, our last as a family of four since I was due in August. We lived it up with lots of princess time and visits... and I believe I visited every restroom in WDW due to the amounts of water I drank so that the baby and I would be okay!

Then in August Luke arrived
http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/LukeJosephinhospital059.jpg


So how did this trip come to be……
“We won’t be going to WDW in 2009” a direct quote from last years trip report. I told this to everyone and most importantly I told myself this and I believed it. So what happened to change this mantra that I had spoken for over 6 months… and said almost daily to our two daughters who love WDW!

one might wonder ...
. I had never believed that we would go to WDW every year, especially since I returned to teaching part time after the birth of our second daughter. I feel very lucky to have been to the world many times, including the five trips my oldest daughter has been during her short five years of life. The last two trips have been especially wonderful, our girls love WDW and really make each moment, big or small so special. I am sure that I will always consider our vacations to WDW some of my best memories of when my kids were young.

But after our last trip when I was 30 plus weeks pregnant with our son, I thought two things: one we would not return until Luke could walk (a rule I stuck to with our second daughter, she was almost 18 months old and had been walking about two months when she first went to WDW) and two I was terribly afraid of what a trip to WDW would be like outnumbered by your kids, especially when they were little. With all this in mind I convienced myself it would be okay, that we could vacation elsewhere and aim to go back in summer of 2010 when Luke was almost two.

But we are indeed headed to WDW in less than sixth months... so stay tuned to just how I convinced to go this year! We have lots of new things planned for this trip and will have fun planning it along the way.

Index

How did this all start (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29739734&postcount=17)

Our Resort of Choice (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29781110&postcount=32)

How will we get to WDW? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29823412&postcount=48)

Getting an extra night-yeah! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29824461&postcount=53)

Adding the dining- mini update (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29868139&postcount=73)

7 Days of Park Fun (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=29886024&postcount=86)

ADR Ideas (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30008143&postcount=141)

To hop or not (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30258800&postcount=208)

Planning thoughts (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30424514&postcount=264)

ADR time is coming (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30637340&postcount=347)

A Touch of WDW (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30655828&postcount=361)

A weekend update (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30692080&postcount=378)

Called for ADRs #1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30837755&postcount=432)

Here is the ADRs (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30839260&postcount=439)

A Change in plans (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30891065&postcount=463)

A schedule? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30971035&postcount=501)

Days 1 and 2- Relaxing at WDW???? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31016630&postcount=515)

Animal Kingdom Plans (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31131170&postcount=560)

Recent pics (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31193849&postcount=592)

EPCOT plans (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31241376&postcount=616)

Coundown Calendar (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31320982&postcount=659)

HS plans (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31622766&postcount=831)

Day 5- MK/EPCOT visit again (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31651296&postcount=854)

A post of last year's top ten (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31722421&postcount=899)

Day-6 Choices (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31855314&postcount=996)

Our Plan... ( http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32274904&postcount=1328)

Good Bye! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32278254&postcount=1339)




Trip Report!
Headed to WDW (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32446005&postcount=1427)

Our pixie dust hotel (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32460557&postcount=1468)

Our room (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32477278&postcount=1493)

Pool Time (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32494919&postcount=1516)

Off to DTD (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32513781&postcount=1534)

Early morning at the Contemporary (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32539474&postcount=1570)

O'Hana's Best Friend Breakfast (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32539833&postcount=1574)

The rest of our lazy day (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32567580&postcount=1600)

EPCOT -Part 1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32609262&postcount=1640)

EPCOT - Part 2/CSR (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32643289&postcount=1680)

2010 plans??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32670663&postcount=1706)

Animal Kingdom (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32676193&postcount=1718)

The Rest of AK/CSR (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32693477&postcount=1743)

MK morning (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32745420&postcount=1778)

Photopass Pictures #1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32759769&postcount=1802)

Photopass Pictures #2 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32769826&postcount=1815)

MK continued (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32777124&postcount=1825)

Chef Mickey's (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32798442&postcount=1837)

Our evening at MK/Bus Ride (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32826523&postcount=1859)

DHS Part 1a (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32857250&postcount=1886)

DHS Part 1b (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32857250&postcount=1887)

DHS Part 2 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32900175&postcount=1921)

DTD (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32936347&postcount=1943)

Early morning MK/CP (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32968745&postcount=1959)
MK continued (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32968745&postcount=1961)

EPCOT night (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33000975&postcount=1988)

DVC tour (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33025053&postcount=2002)

DHS and AKL/AKV (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33047553&postcount=2014)

MK morning (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33085016&postcount=2035)

the rest of the day (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33139757&postcount=2063)

Departure (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33167956&postcount=2080)

[Disneyfan71]

Let me be the first to say I'm on board. We're going in June as well..16th-25th at POP :) I cannot WAIT. And like you, everytime I leave I get all emotional. Even when we go in the Disney store I get, well you know. I love everything Disney...Walt Disney is my personal hero. And I absolutely love Cinderella. Of course Mickey is in a class all by himself :)

[Charleston Princess]

You know that I am onboard and super excited that you do indeed get to go to our favorite place in 2009!!! It truly will be a year of celebrations for you since it is a trip you never thought you would take and Luke will get to experience the World for the very first time! Hip Hip Hurray!!! :cheer2:

Do the girls know yet? Or are you whispering super secret plans into Luke's ear as you rock him to sleep? :goodvibes

[MeMom]

I'm in. Can't wait to see Luke on his first trip to magic!

Hannah will very much enjoy sharing her Disney expertise with her little sister and brother, I'm sure. Let the planning begin!!! :cool1:

[snowwhite325]

I always enjoy your PTR/TRs :goodvibes I can't wait to hear all about your plans!

[an_evans]

popcorn::

[punkin413]

so excited that you're going back! i can't wait to hear what changed your mind. i'm at peace with our decision to not go back until december 2010, but you never know! :rotfl: thanks for giving me a head's up about your trip!

[IluvXU]

Let me be the first to say I'm on board. We're going in June as well..16th-25th at POP :) I cannot WAIT. And like you, everytime I leave I get all emotional. Even when we go in the Disney store I get, well you know. I love everything Disney...Walt Disney is my personal hero. And I absolutely love Cinderella. Of course Mickey is in a class all by himself :)

Welcome! I still cannot believe we are headed there in less than six months! Hannah always cries too, which makes it hard for me as the mom to not cry harder!

You know that I am onboard and super excited that you do indeed get to go to our favorite place in 2009!!! It truly will be a year of celebrations for you since it is a trip you never thought you would take and Luke will get to experience the World for the very first time! Hip Hip Hurray!!! :cheer2:

Do the girls know yet? Or are you whispering super secret plans into Luke's ear as you rock him to sleep? :goodvibes

I have been re-reading MeMom's trip when Brooklynn was that age.... I am excited to see what he enjoys. With the sad state of the economy I feel extra blessed to be going back too!
The girls know... it has been super fun, Hannah is interviewing everyone trying to plan what to do! I am sad we are just going to miss you!

I'm in. Can't wait to see Luke on his first trip to magic!

Hannah will very much enjoy sharing her Disney expertise with her little sister and brother, I'm sure. Let the planning begin!!! :cool1:

So glad you are along for the fun MeMom... your pictures have been shown a lot this week to the girls so they can get ideas about what is in store this summer!

I always enjoy your PTR/TRs :goodvibes I can't wait to hear all about your plans!


Thanks! Glad to have you back! This trip is already shaping up very different... just wait!
popcorn::

Welcome and thanks for reading along!

[Disneyfan71]

Look like you'll be there the same time as us--we're going June 16th-25th!! I already have a countdown timer on my computer desk top ;)

[tinkgurl]

We were also there June of '08 AND we are also going June of this year! :cheer2:

Luke is adorable and so are your girls! I can't wait to read more! popcorn::

[mommytothreeboys]

Count me in! Your girls are gorgeous and little Luke is precious! Can't wait to hear more about your plans!! :wave2:

[Charleston Princess]

I have been re-reading MeMom's trip when Brooklynn was that age.... I am excited to see what he enjoys. With the sad state of the economy I feel extra blessed to be going back too!
The girls know... it has been super fun, Hannah is interviewing everyone trying to plan what to do! I am sad we are just going to miss you!

There were lots of things that Chelsea enjoyed when she was nine months old -- all the Fantasyland rides, the drummers in China, meeting Winnie-the-Pooh -- she was amazed by Pooh. I should dig those photos out sometime.

I love that Hannah is interviewing and planning -- how cute is that? She is going to be the park commando on this trip! :lmao:

We feel super blessed to be going, too. I would even be happy staying at a Value as long as it meant we were going. :goodvibes

I am sad that we are going to miss you, too -- but I will have your TR to look forward to -- it will help me get through the worst of my annual Disney Depression.

[DreaGirl]

You know you can count me in!! I knew you couldn't stay away until 2010!! :)

Can't wait to hear your plans!!

[Lady Lallie]

I'm not sure if I ever delurked on your last TR but I read along and really enjoyed it. I am signing up for all the planning fun! :goodvibes

[IluvXU]

so excited that you're going back! i can't wait to hear what changed your mind. i'm at peace with our decision to not go back until december 2010, but you never know! :rotfl: thanks for giving me a head's up about your trip!

You are the reason why... I won't have your pictures and reports to read, so I have to go myself:rotfl2: Honestly the stars were aligned... stay tuned! Plus as you have stated... go when the kids are free- like Luke will be (DH and I already said we have to get another trip in before he turns 3)

Look like you'll be there the same time as us--we're going June 16th-25th!! I already have a countdown timer on my computer desk top ;)

I was thinking today about what type of countdown calendar to do with the girls..... I want to try something different this time, but we will see.

We were also there June of '08 AND we are also going June of this year! :cheer2:

Luke is adorable and so are your girls! I can't wait to read more! popcorn::

I was having a hard time uploading a more current picture of Luke.... soon!


Count me in! Your girls are gorgeous and little Luke is precious! Can't wait to hear more about your plans!! :wave2:

Thanks!

There were lots of things that Chelsea enjoyed when she was nine months old -- all the Fantasyland rides, the drummers in China, meeting Winnie-the-Pooh -- she was amazed by Pooh. I should dig those photos out sometime.

I love that Hannah is interviewing and planning -- how cute is that? She is going to be the park commando on this trip! :lmao:

We feel super blessed to be going, too. I would even be happy staying at a Value as long as it meant we were going. :goodvibes

I am sad that we are going to miss you, too -- but I will have your TR to look forward to -- it will help me get through the worst of my annual Disney Depression.

If Luke likes all the stimulation he should make for some great pics... he smiles much more than either of my girls did!
Hannah is a fun kid... she might love WDW more than me. Dreaming about it already is what she said today. She is telling everyone we are going to WDW... she is a funny girl. Tonight we were watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse when I declared that every Sat. night until we go to WDW we will watch some Disney show (not sure if this is true... but they sure thought it sounded great!)

You know you can count me in!! I knew you couldn't stay away until 2010!! :)

Can't wait to hear your plans!!

It did not take much family pressure for me to cave!

I'm not sure if I ever delurked on your last TR but I read along and really enjoyed it. I am signing up for all the planning fun! :goodvibes

Thanks for joining in...


I had high hopes of the next installment tonight... however I had better get the laundry mounds off our bed. I did not do any all week (our water heater went out.... so that ruined my laundry time) so we can go to bed. If not later tomorrow for sure....

[siestakeys04]

Baby Luke is so handsome, congrats:grouphug: can't wait to read about the new trip:cheer2:

[IluvXU]

Deals....
WDW must like my money... free dining and room discount emails all fall, but I still was not tempted. 4/3 deal for winter through June sounded great and as I watch Charleston Princess move up to the Beach Club I must admit I thought about how reasonable a trip to the WL would be, but still no- I am not taking an infant. I got the 40% off code, which really did not peak my interest since it is only good for times I am working. I did not mention any of these emails to a soul because speaking of them would get my wheels turing (although I could not bring myself to hit delete- the emails on still in my files).

As Christmas break arrived I started to research summer vacation options. I thought the beach would be manageable and that deals would be available since well the economy tanked. I thought a trip to Hilton Head would be lots of fun, and perhaps I could visit the Hilton Head DVC to get a five minute Disney fix. DH even looked at some of the possible condos we could rent, so we were on our way.

During break though we had my dad in the car when he mentioned WDW and how he wanted to go with the girls. I am not sure I even responded but was glad he was getting the return to WDW bug, since I was hoping he and my mom would join us next trip, hopefully in 2010. My mom watches the kids while I work and tagged along with us back when Hannah was almost two. They are great with my kids and are very close to them. I knew they would be fantastic help.

Then my mom mentions too that dad wants to go to WDW... I think I said great, you know we will head back. I did not even say when because the big hurdle I thought would be DH.

DH and I do a lot of back and forth negotations on our WDW trips. I say two weeks he says one. He says one park day I say parks everyday. I am okay CS he loves to sit down. He hates that I teach and won't take off to go during the spring/winter/fall when it is not hot, I say tough. I know to go with him I can plan no more than 2 park days and then a day off from parks. Granted we do things, DTD, dining, swimming, and our kids wake up early but he hates touring commmando. Luckily DIS and TGM have added so many tips, along with going a lot so we tour less crazy now. Plus having kids we have slowed down, but we have done 12 hour park days with the girls... they are such troopers!



Then last weekend we had a quiet dinner at Olive Garden. Quiet because the girls were spending the night at my parent’s house. As we talked without interruption (Luke was just looking around in his carseat) vacation came up. I was mentioning when I wanted to go to Hilton Head and some condos and stuff I had found. My husband says “I would rather just go to WDW!” I never in 9 years of marriage thought I would hear him say that- and I almost cried. I was mad that he would say that knowing how I had accepted that we were not going back to WDW this year, and I told him that. We also discussed how my mom had mentioned that my dad had said he was ready to go back to WDW (we traveled there in 2005 with them) and that she would not mind going again too! We knew at this point a trip with additional adults would be the only way we could probably manage the crowds and three children in the hot summer. DH also mentioned maybe we could leave Luke at home with the grandparents- which I objected too. I just think I would never hear the end someday to leaving him at home. (Although my mom left my brother with my grandparents when we visited WDW the first time)

So that evening I forwarded on info to DH about the 4 nights, 3 free deal and the 40 off code I received and left it at that. I did not even check prices/ availability on WDW because I was sure he was not serious.

Saturday no talk of Disney.... but then Sunday my parents were over and DH said again he wanted to go to WDW in front of them. My mom said she would rather go to WDW than the beach too. My dad commented that he had read about the 4/3 deal and thought that sounded great to which my mom said it is going on in June. This entire conversation left me shocked... no one seemed troubled by the idea of taking Luke. DH dropped the idea of well we could leave Luke with you two, to which my mom said she wouldn't leave him at home, but she would take care of him in WDW when we went on the rides, etc. So this continued on for a while.... and once the girls were in bed I was quickly on the phone with reservations! DH and my parents had not said yes... but I wanted to get some availablity and $$$ to share- I had to present this.

So we cannot go until school is out, and we get out later this year June 10th -- unless we have make up snow days. We have used already 4 of the five days allotted (3 days for the windstorms after the hurricanes- yes in OHIO and we did not have school Friday due to the cold temps). So honestly we need a few day buffer in case we go later. The first date the reservationist came up with was June 18th at Coronado Springs Resort....waterview (I said no I want a regular room, which she then found me two. We check for WL and AKL nothing -boo (that is what happens when you wait so long) nothing either at POR or POFQ or Carribean Beach. POP was available and so was Saratoga Springs and Old Key West.... decisions decisions decisions... and I still really did not believe we were really going to go.

[arkie]

I'm so excited for your family. I love reading your reports and the pics of your children. It's hard to skip a year. We skipped 2008 and I don't have a trip
planned yet. Hoping for a quick trip in early March before my first grandbaby
arrives in April. I have never taken an infant, but I can't wait to take Ty as soon as his Mom and Dad ok's a trip.

[Charleston Princess]

I can't believe it was DH that said, "I would rather just go to Disney World." That's awesome! Sounds like someone has been converted!!!

I would have been on that phone lickety-split, too! It doesn't take much for me to start pulling numbers!

Don't forget, too, that Disney is so family-friendly (baby care centers, etc.) that it will make taking Luke easier.

[punkin413]

You are the reason why... I won't have your pictures and reports to read, so I have to go myself:rotfl2: Honestly the stars were aligned... stay tuned! Plus as you have stated... go when the kids are free- like Luke will be (DH and I already said we have to get another trip in before he turns 3)

:rotfl: well, glad i could help! i'll have to live vicariously through you for awhile.

i bet when your DH said he'd rather go to disney it was like the heavens opened up and angels sang! :rotfl2: that's really cool. i remember after we returned from our first trip together and about a week later we were talking about what we wanted to do for vacation the next year and ray says, "i'm ready to go back when you are." :cool1: it was so great to hear that! can't wait to hear which deal you end up getting. i've stayed at pop, OKW and SSR. of the 3 of course SSR is my favorite. but pop is nice too. OKW was okay. of course you have more room than at pop and also a fridge and microwave. i just didn't really like the decor over there. i've seen pics of CSR and the rooms look really nice!

[dddisrunner]

I thought I replied to this!:confused3 Anyway, I am SO excited for you all to be going again! How great that your parents will be there to help too! You will be there 1 day before us, I hope we bump into one another:thumbsup2 I am on pins and needles waiting to hear where you will be staying! We brought Eric to Disney when he was only 5 months old and he was GREAT!! Luke will love all the noises and lights but the best thing is he will probably be sleeping really well by then too!:goodvibes

[DreaGirl]

I was so happy when you told me you changed your mind! Yeah, a trip PTR and TR to get me through until October!

We stayed at POP in November and we really liked it. We like WL more, but Pop is nice.

[Melissa79]

Hi! I read your last TR and was excited to see that you are going again. Congrats on the new addition to the family! Can't wait to hear more!

[Disneyfan71]

I wish Disney would extend the 4/3 deal. Too bad we won't have the money until after it's over.

[bertegirl]

Joining...can't wait to keep reading.

[IluvXU]

Baby Luke is so handsome, congrats:grouphug: can't wait to read about the new trip:cheer2:

Thanks... I will have a resort update tomorrow... have friends in town for the weekend.

I'm so excited for your family. I love reading your reports and the pics of your children. It's hard to skip a year. We skipped 2008 and I don't have a trip
planned yet. Hoping for a quick trip in early March before my first grandbaby
arrives in April. I have never taken an infant, but I can't wait to take Ty as soon as his Mom and Dad ok's a trip.

First grandchild- congratulations! Do you know if it is a boy or girl?

I can't believe it was DH that said, "I would rather just go to Disney World." That's awesome! Sounds like someone has been converted!!!

I would have been on that phone lickety-split, too! It doesn't take much for me to start pulling numbers!

Don't forget, too, that Disney is so family-friendly (baby care centers, etc.) that it will make taking Luke easier.

Yes... I had moments when I thought of you and your husband. Today however he asked if we had deposited and said he did not want to go- too hot, wrong resort, too many park days.... I think he does it just to make me mad. Plus now he would have to deal with Hannah!

:rotfl: well, glad i could help! i'll have to live vicariously through you for awhile.

i bet when your DH said he'd rather go to disney it was like the heavens opened up and angels sang! :rotfl2: that's really cool. i remember after we returned from our first trip together and about a week later we were talking about what we wanted to do for vacation the next year and ray says, "i'm ready to go back when you are." :cool1: it was so great to hear that! can't wait to hear which deal you end up getting. i've stayed at pop, OKW and SSR. of the 3 of course SSR is my favorite. but pop is nice too. OKW was okay. of course you have more room than at pop and also a fridge and microwave. i just didn't really like the decor over there. i've seen pics of CSR and the rooms look really nice!

Tomorrow resort reveal.. no time to write much tonight.. just reply!

I thought I replied to this!:confused3 Anyway, I am SO excited for you all to be going again! How great that your parents will be there to help too! You will be there 1 day before us, I hope we bump into one another:thumbsup2 I am on pins and needles waiting to hear where you will be staying! We brought Eric to Disney when he was only 5 months old and he was GREAT!! Luke will love all the noises and lights but the best thing is he will probably be sleeping really well by then too!:goodvibes

We just put him to bed awake.. we are trying to get better at it!

I was so happy when you told me you changed your mind! Yeah, a trip PTR and TR to get me through until October!

We stayed at POP in November and we really liked it. We like WL more, but Pop is nice.

Yes.. no WL this time... next trip for sure I told DH today!

Hi! I read your last TR and was excited to see that you are going again. Congrats on the new addition to the family! Can't wait to hear more!


Thanks for joining again!

I wish Disney would extend the 4/3 deal. Too bad we won't have the money until after it's over.

I wonder what their next deal will be...

Joining...can't wait to keep reading.

Thanks!

[Charleston Princess]

Yes... I had moments when I thought of you and your husband. Today however he asked if we had deposited and said he did not want to go- too hot, wrong resort, too many park days.... I think he does it just to make me mad. Plus now he would have to deal with Hannah!

Charles pulls that kind of thing all the time! Grrrr.

You should be safe now that the girls know -- he would never break their hearts like that. ;)

[IluvXU]

Charles pulls that kind of thing all the time! Grrrr.

You should be safe now that the girls know -- he would never break their hearts like that. ;)


Or have to tell my parents....

[MegansMom]

Oh Laura---I'm HERE!!!!! AND SO EXCITED FOR YOU!!!!!! I can't wait to hear about your reveal of the resort----having stayed at 3 out of the 4 (CSR, SSR, and OKW) before, my vote is for CSR. BUT, you really can't go wrong----it is DISNEY!!!!! So happy for you girl!!! Waiting for more......patiently!!!!

[mylag1rl]

Hi Laura - I have been a lurker on your other two reports. I am so excited for you and your family about another Disney trip. I really enjoyed your last two reports. That is nice that your parents will be going with you this trip to help with the kids.

[IluvXU]

Oh Laura---I'm HERE!!!!! AND SO EXCITED FOR YOU!!!!!! I can't wait to hear about your reveal of the resort----having stayed at 3 out of the 4 (CSR, SSR, and OKW) before, my vote is for CSR. BUT, you really can't go wrong----it is DISNEY!!!!! So happy for you girl!!! Waiting for more......patiently!!!!

So you tell your DH you need a trip after mine so I will have one to look forward to and read about. I was interested in your vote... you will have to tell me why CSR- I know you like the others a lot!

Hi Laura - I have been a lurker on your other two reports. I am so excited for you and your family about another Disney trip. I really enjoyed your last two reports. That is nice that your parents will be going with you this trip to help with the kids.

Thanks... I am super thrilled my parents are going. You never know how what life has ahead... and I sure am glad my parents will get to experience the fun with the kids.

[IluvXU]

So where are we staying?

I was on the phone and I must say I did not hesistate at all CSR! I had always wanted to stay there and soon we will be too big. If we ever DVC/we can stay at the others or someday rent points when we outgrow the 4 max capacity rooms. In fact we had CSR booked twice and have not stayed there yet. The only scary thoughts I had were the size and the food court crazy 10% gratutity. So I put the rooms on hold... no deposit of $ just hold and got off the phone to talk to DH. He looked at some pictures and really had little to say. We both wonder if Emily will be able to do the slide- and know Hannah will love it! Any knowledge about slide and what ages can handle it?

So Monday morning my mom came in and watched the kids while I was at school... we did no WDW talk, but I had my paper and stuff ready to share the $$$ when I got home. I was a bit nervous that my parents talked it over and really were not a go, but my mom surprised me by saying she had been online looking already too! She was unsure about my last school day, so she had seen different availablity. So our afternoon turned in to WDW internet fun 101.... she was super excited. I even fessed up to having two rooms on hold... and I broke into her email to hide the confirmation email that she received the night before in her account- once I saw it in mine I had to get it out of her box until we talked!

She loved telling Hannah too- who was super happy since she thought we were not going this year. They talked rides and stuff that day... and my dad was surprised his girls did not call to talk WDW to him that night!

One of the big surprises in the conversation was that my mom wanted to do the dining plan! I was glad since I have a list of next trip ADRs we wanted to do and I wondered if my parents would want to spend the time and $ on that, especially my dad who is not known for stopping and eating! So we have 7 meals to decide on (of course many are decided--- come on reservation window and open up!)

That night dad and DH were both onboard and the planning is underway.

Coming up next--- drive or fly and maybe we need an extra night honey?

[IluvXU]

I felt the Luke picture was a bit out of date... and the girls have changed perhaps too, although less than him! Also today the girls finally played in the small trace of snow we had... but they sure were happy! Finally not freezing out, just cold!

Enjoy!

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/101_2506-1.jpg
Love the onesie!

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/101_2181-1.jpg

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/101_2309.jpg

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/101_2551.jpg


I also ordered a set of shirts on Disneyshopping today... and Luke got a couple of onesies-- the girls will be set because Hannah has a supply from last year and Emily can wear some of Hannah's from two years ago. I am excited to wear my WDW shirts again this trip!

[punkin413]

oh my gosh, luke is such a cutie!!!! look at that little face. he looks like emily to me.

i think CSR is a good choice. i've seen pics of the rooms and they're nice! :thumbsup2

[Lady Lallie]

Your kids are adorable. :goodvibes

I've been reading a lot of goods things about CSR recently and it makes me want to stay there.

And of course, you can always need an extra night in Disney! :thumbsup2

[IluvXU]

oh my gosh, luke is such a cutie!!!! look at that little face. he looks like emily to me.

i think CSR is a good choice. i've seen pics of the rooms and they're nice! :thumbsup2


I agree... Luke looks a lot like Emily. I am excited to try a new resort out.... we have never been there even to look around.

Your kids are adorable. :goodvibes

I've been reading a lot of goods things about CSR recently and it makes me want to stay there.

And of course, you can always need an extra night in Disney! :thumbsup2


Yes... I need to get an extra night!

[Disneyfan71]

We're going in April and got the 4/3 deal..I simply could not pass it up :)

[MeMom]

Isn't it fun talking Disney talk again???

The kids are precious. You are very blessed. That's kind of what I'd like Jill to have, two girls and then a boy. I wanted the sisters to be closer in age. I'm getting my wish on the girls, so as soon as this one is walking, well.....maybe they can work on that boy! ;)

[MegansMom]

Laura---I am SO excited that you are booked tentatively for CSR!!!!! It is SUCH a beautiful resort!!! I'll tell you why we liked it when we went---

We stayed there for part of our November 2007 trip (we checked in on Thanksgiving day and stayed there through that weekend before moving over to SSR). Even though we were there during a busy holiday weekend, we never felt the "crush" of the crowds at that resort. Since it is primarily used as a convention resort, the buses were rarely crowded---they say that the majority of their guests are there for conventions and not park touring. We never had to stand once on a CSR bus that entire weekend, and their buses were always timely about going to and from the parks. We stayed in an area away from the main hub, but had a quiet pool right in our complex that was just as good for our uses. We also enjoyed the main pool complex quite a bit while we were there too! They have updated the pool recently, so I am not sure about all their new features and Emily, but I do believe there is plenty there to keep her entertained as well. If you are not in a section near the main hub, you can always hop on the first bus from your stop and take it quickly up to the main hub because they all stop there before leaving the resort. The lake is beautiful and there is plenty to do around and on the lake for your non-park days. The food at the food court is really good too---it is run a little differently than the other courts, and therefore the reason for the gratuity, but I believe you do not have to pay that if you are getting your items to go---don't quote me on that though, things could have changed since then. We really did enjoy our stay there, and will definitely consider it again for upcoming trips. If you do change your mind though and opt for OKW or SSR, those are both nice resorts as well---my main complaint about SSR was the buses and transportation for that resort---we almost ALWAYS had to stand or wait for another bus. SSR is beautiful and so close to DTD, but the buses were a big problem for us--especially after moving over to there from CSR that same week where we had no problems with buses there. We had a similar situation with OKW with the buses, but it wasn't nearly as bad. I think one of the bigger downfalls of OKW when you compare it to CSR and SSR, is that it is unfortunately starting to show its' age---they need to do a little more updating over there. But again, you really can't go wrong!

I do believe that our next vacation is in the works---we are looking into going back in September this year---we recently got a 40% off code, so the wheels are churning--I will let you know more when I know!!!

Luke is JUST the cutest!!!! He reminds me alot of Emily!!! You have such beautiful children---you are extremely blessed!!!

[DreaGirl]

Luke is so cute and I LOVE that onesie!!

I also love that the girls are dressed the same in their dresses, I would totallly do that if I had two of the same sex.

You guys have hardly any snow! We still have at least 6 inches on the ground.

[IluvXU]

We're going in April and got the 4/3 deal..I simply could not pass it up :)

It is a great deal...I hate to think about what deals they will have if things don't turn around!

Isn't it fun talking Disney talk again???

The kids are precious. You are very blessed. That's kind of what I'd like Jill to have, two girls and then a boy. I wanted the sisters to be closer in age. I'm getting my wish on the girls, so as soon as this one is walking, well.....maybe they can work on that boy! ;)

It is fun to talk Disney again! Your pictures are extra fun to look at since I will be seeing them in the flesh sooner than I thought.

I am blessed... looking at their sweet sleeping bodies I wonder how I got so lucky. They are so fun, a lot of work but fun.

I love my girls having each other since I had a brother. They are really close and sweet towards each other. Today Hannah made a picture for Emily to color since she can't draw that good yet- and was just so kind about it.

The third has been a huge adjustment for me... at least so far, so I am not the one for Jill to ask about that, but I always wanted a little boy, so happy I have mine.

Laura---I am SO excited that you are booked tentatively for CSR!!!!! It is SUCH a beautiful resort!!! I'll tell you why we liked it when we went---

We stayed there for part of our November 2007 trip (we checked in on Thanksgiving day and stayed there through that weekend before moving over to SSR). Even though we were there during a busy holiday weekend, we never felt the "crush" of the crowds at that resort. Since it is primarily used as a convention resort, the buses were rarely crowded---they say that the majority of their guests are there for conventions and not park touring. We never had to stand once on a CSR bus that entire weekend, and their buses were always timely about going to and from the parks. We stayed in an area away from the main hub, but had a quiet pool right in our complex that was just as good for our uses. We also enjoyed the main pool complex quite a bit while we were there too! They have updated the pool recently, so I am not sure about all their new features and Emily, but I do believe there is plenty there to keep her entertained as well. If you are not in a section near the main hub, you can always hop on the first bus from your stop and take it quickly up to the main hub because they all stop there before leaving the resort. The lake is beautiful and there is plenty to do around and on the lake for your non-park days. The food at the food court is really good too---it is run a little differently than the other courts, and therefore the reason for the gratuity, but I believe you do not have to pay that if you are getting your items to go---don't quote me on that though, things could have changed since then. We really did enjoy our stay there, and will definitely consider it again for upcoming trips. If you do change your mind though and opt for OKW or SSR, those are both nice resorts as well---my main complaint about SSR was the buses and transportation for that resort---we almost ALWAYS had to stand or wait for another bus. SSR is beautiful and so close to DTD, but the buses were a big problem for us--especially after moving over to there from CSR that same week where we had no problems with buses there. We had a similar situation with OKW with the buses, but it wasn't nearly as bad. I think one of the bigger downfalls of OKW when you compare it to CSR and SSR, is that it is unfortunately starting to show its' age---they need to do a little more updating over there. But again, you really can't go wrong!

I do believe that our next vacation is in the works---we are looking into going back in September this year---we recently got a 40% off code, so the wheels are churning--I will let you know more when I know!!!

Luke is JUST the cutest!!!! He reminds me alot of Emily!!! You have such beautiful children---you are extremely blessed!!!

Thank you Jen! I am so glad you liked it... I cannot imagine standing with Luke on crowded buses- yikes. I am sure we will stick there...

Luke is so cute and I LOVE that onesie!!

I also love that the girls are dressed the same in their dresses, I would totallly do that if I had two of the same sex.

You guys have hardly any snow! We still have at least 6 inches on the ground.

I love to dress them alike or coordinating... I know it will end soon. Our snowfall has been little... but burr it is cold!

[TeaForTulips]

i just found your PTR. Subbing! :goodvibes You have a beautiful family! The picture of your two girls holding hands looks just like me and my sister when we were little @ Disney. I love it! Cant wait to hear more!

[Trista_Daisy]

Just subbed to your TR! Your girls are so cute! TeaForTulips is my sister and they DO look just like us on one of our trips to Disney! :goodvibes Can't wait for more preTR!

[mindyd]

Hi

Your Kids are adorable we are also going in June and I can't wait to make the ADR's . Can't wait to hear more about your Plans!

[Disneyfan71]

It makes me wonder with this deal if business is slipping a little..maybe to draw more guests in? Then again I could be wrong.

[MaryAz]

Just finished reading your 08 trip report. Great report and pics. We are going for the first time in May. I appreciated your report since our girls are around the same age. Congrats on baby Luke, glad the grandparents are coming along to help. I knew you would go back, just didn't think it would be ur Dh who initiated it.

[IluvXU]

i just found your PTR. Subbing! :goodvibes You have a beautiful family! The picture of your two girls holding hands looks just like me and my sister when we were little @ Disney. I love it! Cant wait to hear more!

Thanks and welcome!

Just subbed to your TR! Your girls are so cute! TeaForTulips is my sister and they DO look just like us on one of our trips to Disney! :goodvibes Can't wait for more preTR!


Thanks and welcome more report coming up!
Hi

Your Kids are adorable we are also going in June and I can't wait to make the ADR's . Can't wait to hear more about your Plans!

I have our meals pretty much chosen... but no idea what park which day and which ones we will repeat!

It makes me wonder with this deal if business is slipping a little..maybe to draw more guests in? Then again I could be wrong.

I am pretty frustrated in the lack of a room that night before our trip. I read somewhere there is a conference at CSR through the 20th of June... I think they must have the rooms blocked/held. However I would think at least something will open!

Just finished reading your 08 trip report. Great report and pics. We are going for the first time in May. I appreciated your report since our girls are around the same age. Congrats on baby Luke, glad the grandparents are coming along to help. I knew you would go back, just didn't think it would be ur Dh who initiated it.

I would love to go a less crowded yet warm time. I am sure you will have a fantastic trip. I never thought DH would ever be the one to say go without me starting it. I really didn't this time!

[IluvXU]

How will we get there?

At this point (and probably no change will happen) we are going to drive to Florida. DH has figured the miles and even is trying to decide where to use our hotel points to stop. We will not drive the entire way down in one day, rather we will stop somewhere in GA probably before finishing the next day. Since our package starts the 18th we want to be in Orlando the 17th, so we will leave our house early on the 16th.

Tonight DH and the girls were selecting from our collection of Disney movies what they want to watch in the van- yes I know months out- crazy huh? I am sure it will change numerous times. Of course Hannah was making one of her thousands of lists... I don't know where she got that from:confused3

So do you think I would be happy with seven nights at WDW- no! I desperately want a room for the 17th at CSR- but at this point there is nothing. (Probably due to the convention there... I sure hope some rooms open up). I have called many times... but that is another story!
That way we could wake up, get ready grab our passes and go to the parks.

If we have to stay somewhere else- yikes. I really don't want to think about that. Since we have seven park days we want to start our park days on the 18th so the 25 we can head on home.


So I have been checking out the DISign board here- wow! I have always admired the cool shirts and now I want in on the fun. I bought some shirts at Michael's this week- I want to make one for the five of us to all have I think and then make one for each of the kids- anyone have any experience with this???? I also need to find some smaller size ones for Luke and Emily- ideas on where to find???
I would love to get the shirts done for Valentine's Day, so I better get a move on it!



Coming up next: 7 Days at the Parks---- that is the most we have ever done- help!

[Disneyfan71]

I hope you can find a room and I'm very sorry this happened to you :(

[Lady Lallie]

We decided to drive down on our next trip and we ended up adding a night too. Maybe it's something about driving down that makes you want an extra night! :rotfl:

I hope a room opens up. Keep trying, usually something comes up! I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. :thumbsup2

[Disneyfan71]

We decided to drive down on our next trip and we ended up adding a night too. Maybe it's something about driving down that makes you want an extra night! :rotfl:

I hope a room opens up. Keep trying, usually something comes up! I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. :thumbsup2

We're flying down. Just drove from NC to Louisiana and that was 850 miles...about drove me nuts. 600 and some isn't so bad, but still it's faster flying!! Plus we get the ME from the airport to our hotel :) Also, we aren't going to have the time to drive--gotta get back on the 12th of April as my DW has school the next day.

[KathyRN137]

Hi Laura! :wave2:

We drove down for our mini-trip last April...I was nervous b/c, well, like an infant, an autistic child can be unpredictable and labor-intensive.

It worked out well, though. Definitely break it up into two days... I can't imagine just driving straight through no matter how many drivers are available!

Yay for the new baby!
Yay for grandma and grandpa coming!!
Yay for hubby suggesting WDW without thumbscrews being applied!!! :rotfl:

(I'm "working" on Ed right now :ssst: and hoping for another Jersey Week!)

Deep breath... park hours will be up soon....


Kathy

[IluvXU]

While visions of Disney were in my head... and worried about the idea of early check in and grabbing a bus and parks... no wonder I could not sleep I had a GREAT idea!

I wondered if I could book more than one night at CSR in a standard room and actually get a reservation for the night before! While I could have waited to the morning and called I thought to myself to try online! Well.....









IT WORKED:cool1: :cool1: :cool1: needless to say I am thrilled. While I am now booked for 11 nights instead of 8 I have a room for the night I wanted. Now I will just cancel the other nights (yes I will) and connect the two reservations next time I call WDW. I might also try to get the nights at the AAA rate! I think this just might work!!!!

[Disneyfan71]

While visions of Disney were in my head... and worried about the idea of early check in and grabbing a bus and parks... no wonder I could not sleep I had a GREAT idea!

I wondered if I could book more than one night at CSR in a standard room and actually get a reservation for the night before! While I could have waited to the morning and called I thought to myself to try online! Well.....









IT WORKED:cool1: :cool1: :cool1: needless to say I am thrilled. While I am now booked for 11 nights instead of 8 I have a room for the night I wanted. Now I will just cancel the other nights (yes I will) and connect the two reservations next time I call WDW. I might also try to get the nights at the AAA rate! I think this just might work!!!!

YAY!!! I'm glad you have a room now!!!

[punkin413]

i can't remember if you guys have driven before but it's so nice to have the option of taking your car while you're there! sometimes the buses just get old to me.

let me know where you guys stop in georgia! if it's close i'd love to meet you guys at mickey d's for dinner or something simple like that. ;)

glad you got the room for the additional night. hannah's cracking me up with her lists!!! :rotfl: so cute.

[Charleston Princess]

Yeay for getting that room for the extra night at CSR! Everything is coming together nicely, isn't it???

How long a drive will it end up being for you?

That cracks me up that DH and the girls are already picking out movies. :rotfl:

[KathyRN137]

IT WORKED:cool1: :cool1: :cool1: needless to say I am thrilled. While I am now booked for 11 nights instead of 8 I have a room for the night I wanted. Now I will just cancel the other nights (yes I will) and connect the two reservations next time I call WDW.


Way to "work it", baby!! :thumbsup2

Hope it all goes well.

*Make them write notes all over the place when you call to link the ressies... tell them you have an infant and small children... make sure they note that you can stay in the same room and not have to move!!

(Hint: in my upcoming TR posts, you will see why!!)

Kathy

[Lady Lallie]

Congrats on the room!!

I hope we get to see some of Hannah's lists!! :goodvibes

[MegansMom]

Oh my gosh!!! What a great idea!!! I am just so excited that you have a reservation for the night you needed!!! HOW WONDERFUL!!! You are SO SMART! I hope you can get the AAA discount!!! Congrats! Is there a particular section of the resort you are hoping for?

[IluvXU]

I hope you can find a room and I'm very sorry this happened to you :(

I feel relieved... still need to try to get an AAA rate room.... but did not have time to call today!

We decided to drive down on our next trip and we ended up adding a night too. Maybe it's something about driving down that makes you want an extra night! :rotfl:

I hope a room opens up. Keep trying, usually something comes up! I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. :thumbsup2

I can't imagine wasting a day of our passes... so we need the night!

We're flying down. Just drove from NC to Louisiana and that was 850 miles...about drove me nuts. 600 and some isn't so bad, but still it's faster flying!! Plus we get the ME from the airport to our hotel :) Also, we aren't going to have the time to drive--gotta get back on the 12th of April as my DW has school the next day.

I don't think DH has realized all the days off he has to take... he has plenty though...

Hi Laura! :wave2:

We drove down for our mini-trip last April...I was nervous b/c, well, like an infant, an autistic child can be unpredictable and labor-intensive.

It worked out well, though. Definitely break it up into two days... I can't imagine just driving straight through no matter how many drivers are available!

Yay for the new baby!
Yay for grandma and grandpa coming!!
Yay for hubby suggesting WDW without thumbscrews being applied!!! :rotfl:

(I'm "working" on Ed right now :ssst: and hoping for another Jersey Week!)

Deep breath... park hours will be up soon....


Kathy

Thanks so much Kathy for joining in. I always love your reports. I think you need a trip soon too! I am excited, but I have lots of school stuff to get done so not much time to dream about WDW right now!

YAY!!! I'm glad you have a room now!!!

It was the first thing I told DH--- he groaned!

i can't remember if you guys have driven before but it's so nice to have the option of taking your car while you're there! sometimes the buses just get old to me.

let me know where you guys stop in georgia! if it's close i'd love to meet you guys at mickey d's for dinner or something simple like that. ;)

glad you got the room for the additional night. hannah's cracking me up with her lists!!! :rotfl: so cute.

We have never drove.... but having a car to get groceries and to lug home WDW stuff will be nice! I would love to meet... we will have to see when we are going through Atlanta!

Yeay for getting that room for the extra night at CSR! Everything is coming together nicely, isn't it???

How long a drive will it end up being for you?

That cracks me up that DH and the girls are already picking out movies. :rotfl:

My parents are doing it in a day... they have before. I should ask Jen how long it took them with Megan and all last year... that would give me a better estimate time wise. They also finally joined the Disney movie rewards.... we should have done it years ago last night.

Way to "work it", baby!! :thumbsup2

Hope it all goes well.

*Make them write notes all over the place when you call to link the ressies... tell them you have an infant and small children... make sure they note that you can stay in the same room and not have to move!!

(Hint: in my upcoming TR posts, you will see why!!)

Kathy

We had two seperate reservations at the WL and didn't move rooms. I sure hope we can do it again. I hope to check in early and will wait for a room to make sure we don't move. Plus we need adjoining rooms with my parents... and of course I need to request and area... lots to do!

Congrats on the room!!

I hope we get to see some of Hannah's lists!! :goodvibes

I should scan one in... they are so funny--- some weird spacing and backwards letters!

Oh my gosh!!! What a great idea!!! I am just so excited that you have a reservation for the night you needed!!! HOW WONDERFUL!!! You are SO SMART! I hope you can get the AAA discount!!! Congrats! Is there a particular section of the resort you are hoping for?

I am looking to you for some section advice... I think we want by the Dig pool. With a fridge in the room I think we don't have to get every meal at the Pepper Market...

[Disneyfan71]

I'm seriously considering seeing if we can get some kind of upgrade...or stay at say the Contemporary or something :) We could just go for seven days instead of nine.

[DreaGirl]

I'm so happy you were able to get the room for the extra night!! That will be so nice. :)

Any ADR talk yet?

[IluvXU]

I'm seriously considering seeing if we can get some kind of upgrade...or stay at say the Contemporary or something :) We could just go for seven days instead of nine.


When I was in HS we actually received a call from WDW reservations moving us from Carribean Beach to the Yacht Club for the rate we were paying at Carribean Beach. Infact we did not really believe it. Back then there were a lot less rooms on grounds, no values and only 1 moderate, so we got moved on up. It was so much fun hanging out at Stormalong Bay.... but to date myself, they were only building the Boardwalk, so all that fun was not there!

I'm so happy you were able to get the room for the extra night!! That will be so nice. :)

Any ADR talk yet?

We have seven to make--and I think we have six credits pretty much decided. The problem is with no park hours yet I am not sure where to plan to go each day, so good thing the ADR window is not open yet. I will share what I am thinking so far this weekend. Unlike other trips were I have resort changes that I struggle with I am now not sure how to spend seven park days!

[KathyRN137]

We had two seperate reservations at the WL and didn't move rooms. I sure hope we can do it again. I hope to check in early and will wait for a room to make sure we don't move. Plus we need adjoining rooms with my parents... and of course I need to request and area... lots to do!



CSR is the only Moderate resort that I havn't stayed at, but my favorite guidebook, the PassPorter, says:

"The Casitas are the least interesting visually, but ... house the only rooms that you can reach from El Centro without leaving the protection of a roof or overhang...The charming Rancheros are closest to the main pool and farthest from El Centro. We recommend building 6B for its view and proximity to the leisure pool. The Cabanas are convenient to El Centro. We loved our room in building 8B (close to pool and the bus); building 8A has good views, and 9B is close to El Centro."


Hmmm. Tough decision.

I think there is one of those "fans of CSR" threads over on the Resort Board. Perhaps you can pick up some tips there.

Kathy

[MegansMom]

Okay Laura, you asked for some advice on sections, so here it is:

With your gang and your desire to be close to the main pool as opposed to the Pepper Market, here is my best advice on which section to request in which order:

1. Cabanas 8A---this would be the BEST section for you all to get in: it is the closest to the main pool, the Explorer's playground, and Bus Stop 4. You would also be able to park right next to your building. Bus Stop 4 is a good stop to be at since it is the last one before leaving to go hit the stop at the central house and then exit to the parks. If you were wanting to go up to the Pepper Market, you could simply take the first bus that arrives up to the very next stop---the main lobby---and you would be right there at the Market.

2. Ranchos 7B---this is the section we were in during our November 2007 stay. It is the next closest section to the main pool, Explorer's playground, Bus Stop 4 (just like Cabanas 8A), but it also has a nice/large quiet pool in its' courtyard.

3. Cabanas 8B---this is just a little further from the main pool than Ranchos 7B--really about the same---but it does not have its' own quiet pool. Still close to the Explorer's playground and Bus Stop 4.

Those are my top 3---here's how the rest would pan out in my mind:

4. Cabanas 9B
5. Cabanas 9A
6. Ranchos 6B
7. Ranchos 6A
8. Ranchos 7A
The Casitas are really far from the Main Pool, so I would not recommend ANY of those for you all.

Hope that helps!

[Disneyfan71]

That must have been nice to receive the upgrade. I was looking last night at different resorts, and well staying at Pop vs. staying at sat Coronodo Springs is about $1,000 more than what we had budgeted. so I'm not complaining :)

[Happy Elf]

I noticed your PTR link (from MeMom's TR) and decided to head over and check things out. Luke is adorable! We are going in June as well. I believe a few of our days overlap.

[MeMom]

I can't imagine wasting a day of our passes... so we need the night!



We have never drove.... but having a car to get groceries and to lug home WDW stuff will be nice! I would love to meet... we will have to see when we are going through Atlanta!



I should scan one in... they are so funny--- some weird spacing and backwards letters!



I am looking to you for some section advice... I think we want by the Dig pool.

No wasting pass days, I agree.

I hope you get to meet Dawn.

I'd love to see some of the lists!
Jill was a list maker when she was little, too.

Looks like you've already gotten some great advice.
Dis friends are always ready to help!

[IluvXU]

CSR is the only Moderate resort that I havn't stayed at, but my favorite guidebook, the PassPorter, says:

"The Casitas are the least interesting visually, but ... house the only rooms that you can reach from El Centro without leaving the protection of a roof or overhang...The charming Rancheros are closest to the main pool and farthest from El Centro. We recommend building 6B for its view and proximity to the leisure pool. The Cabanas are convenient to El Centro. We loved our room in building 8B (close to pool and the bus); building 8A has good views, and 9B is close to El Centro."


Hmmm. Tough decision.

I think there is one of those "fans of CSR" threads over on the Resort Board. Perhaps you can pick up some tips there.

Kathy


Thanks Kathy!
So I have copied this, Buzz (CSR expert on DIS) and Jen's ideas and am going to look at this weekend. I need to call to add the dining plan and check AAA for my stay before the package this weekend. So hopefully I can request all my needs.


Okay Laura, you asked for some advice on sections, so here it is:

With your gang and your desire to be close to the main pool as opposed to the Pepper Market, here is my best advice on which section to request in which order:

1. Cabanas 8A---this would be the BEST section for you all to get in: it is the closest to the main pool, the Explorer's playground, and Bus Stop 4. You would also be able to park right next to your building. Bus Stop 4 is a good stop to be at since it is the last one before leaving to go hit the stop at the central house and then exit to the parks. If you were wanting to go up to the Pepper Market, you could simply take the first bus that arrives up to the very next stop---the main lobby---and you would be right there at the Market.

2. Ranchos 7B---this is the section we were in during our November 2007 stay. It is the next closest section to the main pool, Explorer's playground, Bus Stop 4 (just like Cabanas 8A), but it also has a nice/large quiet pool in its' courtyard.

3. Cabanas 8B---this is just a little further from the main pool than Ranchos 7B--really about the same---but it does not have its' own quiet pool. Still close to the Explorer's playground and Bus Stop 4.

Those are my top 3---here's how the rest would pan out in my mind:

4. Cabanas 9B
5. Cabanas 9A
6. Ranchos 6B
7. Ranchos 6A
8. Ranchos 7A
The Casitas are really far from the Main Pool, so I would not recommend ANY of those for you all.

Hope that helps!

Ahh... I had to re-read this a bit to get it! Thanks Jen!

That must have been nice to receive the upgrade. I was looking last night at different resorts, and well staying at Pop vs. staying at sat Coronodo Springs is about $1,000 more than what we had budgeted. so I'm not complaining :)

Anywhere in WDW is great to me!

I noticed your PTR link (from MeMom's TR) and decided to head over and check things out. Luke is adorable! We are going in June as well. I believe a few of our days overlap.

Thanks for coming over... we both have Hannah's! That is my favorite name... what I always wanted!

No wasting pass days, I agree.

I hope you get to meet Dawn.

I'd love to see some of the lists!
Jill was a list maker when she was little, too.

Looks like you've already gotten some great advice.
Dis friends are always ready to help!

I love to get to a park early day 1... I sleep so terribly that night before.... just so excited! Maybe I will get up like you and explore! I have to admit you and Jill's CSR visit sticks in my mind.... I am so sad it was not pleasant.

I would love to see Dawn in person. I am afraid it will be daytime, so it won't work!

I will scan the lists... they are precious.

So the Disney mailing you get once you reserve a room... well my parents got there brochures and goodies today. When I picked up the kids my girls and dad were reviewing the maps intently on the floor. It was so sweet to watch listen. Fantasia is the movie of the night at our house. I am trying to work Hannah into it thinking maybe she can tie it to Fantasmic and watch that this year. Plus the scene in Mickey's Philharmagic.... last night was Tarzan. We are DVRing the 5:00is Disney movies a lot lately on one of the Direct TV Disney stations.

Have a great weekend everyone... an update of planning soon!

[wigdoutdismom]

Hellooooo, just got back from a conference, was catching up on Jackie's pre-trip and found yours! It was so great to see your darling girls again, it brings back memories of last summer. Luke is just precious and growing like a weed!
You mentioned that you were planning to make family t-shirts, have you found a design that you like? We did a couple of versions of the disney stick people and have had so many compliments on them....They turned out really cute. The designer even made a list of our magical trips for the back of our shirts!

[shannon47142]

I just found this report, so I'm stopping in to say hello and to tell you that I have enjoyed your past reports! What a fun trip you guys have ahead of you!

[IluvXU]

Hellooooo, just got back from a conference, was catching up on Jackie's pre-trip and found yours! It was so great to see your darling girls again, it brings back memories of last summer. Luke is just precious and growing like a weed!
You mentioned that you were planning to make family t-shirts, have you found a design that you like? We did a couple of versions of the disney stick people and have had so many compliments on them....They turned out really cute. The designer even made a list of our magical trips for the back of our shirts!

So what design where they? I would love to see the finish ones and get some advice about how to do it... I want to do a family set on red shirts- but I am not starting until I find a shirt for Luke. I also want to let the girls pick out one-- both have decided so I just need to do it. I was hoping for them to be done by Valentine's Day!

I just found this report, so I'm stopping in to say hello and to tell you that I have enjoyed your past reports! What a fun trip you guys have ahead of you!

Thanks for joining! I am sure we will experience a lot of new fun this trip, tons more park days, new resort and more and bigger kids!

[IluvXU]

Mini-Update!

So I again called Disney: to add dining to our 4/3 deal. Done!
and then I wanted to get my extra night (mind you I booked 4 nights to get the one night I needed standard view, etc at CSR) at a AAA rate if I could. Well I did it, but had to add another night so I have reservations for 12 night right now! Needless to say I will be canceling 4 of the nights. I also linked the two reservations, made sure I had a crib request, rooms adjoining my parents and did a building request- thanks Jen! 8A Cabanas!

[wigdoutdismom]

Laura, here's the link for the stick people, I think Lisabelll will still personalize them for you or it seems that there are directions to do the design yourself...

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=26700955#post26700955

Are you on facebook? I have a picture of me wearing one on my page. PM me if you want to take a look.:goodvibes

[DreaGirl]

Sounds like you got a lot done on that one call!! I 'm happy that everything is working out so well!!

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, I think you should just stay 12 and not bother dropping four of those nights. ;)

[Lady Lallie]

Oh, I think you should just stay 12 and not bother dropping four of those nights. ;)

That's what I was thinking too! ::yes::

[IluvXU]

Laura, here's the link for the stick people, I think Lisabelll will still personalize them for you or it seems that there are directions to do the design yourself...

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=26700955#post26700955


Those are too cute. I doubt DH would go for those. I have a feeling I will have to let him pick them. I might do the stick people for something else though.

Sounds like you got a lot done on that one call!! I 'm happy that everything is working out so well!!

BTW... I was on hold forever- and I did mind a bit!



Oh, I think you should just stay 12 and not bother dropping four of those nights. ;)

That would never happen... DH is missing nine days of work as it is. He will be freaking out closer to the time. He is not one to miss work! I would love it, but not my savings!

That's what I was thinking too! ::yes::

It would be relaxing... but not in the budget... remember I was not planning to go this year!

[Disneyfan71]

Hey there :) Glad things are working out for you now.

[wlwilliams9]

I haven't gotten throught the whole report yet, but just wanted to say :wave2: and what a beautiful family you have! We have an Emily too and if we have a boy next, Luke is at the top of our name list!! Looking forward to reading more!

[wlwilliams9]

Ok, I'm done reading! Your plans look great! I've never stayed at CSR, but it does look gorgeous. I love the updates they have made to the rooms. Enjoy that special time with your parents! My mom passed away in Aug. and I regret that she never got to experience WDW with DD.

Can't wait to read more!

I saw you posted on my PTR! I think you can still book Chef Mickey's 180 days out up to June 19th due to the new system change over. Check out this thread. I've been using it to keep up to date with the new ADR system.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1977770

[MeMom]

Maybe I will get up like you and explore! I have to admit you and Jill's CSR visit sticks in my mind.... I am so sad it was not pleasant.


When I picked up the kids my girls and dad were reviewing the maps intently on the floor. It was so sweet to watch listen. Fantasia is the movie of the night at our house. I am trying to work Hannah into it thinking maybe she can tie it to Fantasmic and watch that this year.



Ooooh, I'd love to see some early morning pictures of that beautiful place!

It was just the one girl that got an attitude with Jill. We don't fault the whole place for her one minute of rudeness. :goodvibes Jill was scarred by it a little, because it was directed right at her, and it embarrassed her.

I bet the girls were so cute looking at the maps. Brooklynn gets out the scrapbooks and Birnbaums and maps and points out things. To her, it's 'my Epcot' and 'my Magic Kingdom'.

I hope you do get to see Fantasmic!

[punkin413]

It was just the one girl that got an attitude with Jill. We don't fault the whole place for her one minute of rudeness. :goodvibes Jill was scarred by it a little, because it was directed right at her, and it embarrassed her.


remind me again of what happened. i can't remember. they say memory's the first thing to go. :rotfl:

[dddisrunner]

Oh, I think you should just stay 12 and not bother dropping four of those nights. ;)


:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:
That is exactly what I would do too!:thumbsup2 Way to go Laura on fanagling your ressie to get what you want!!!:thumbsup2 LOVE that the family is already planning what movies to bring in the car too! My kind of people!:thumbsup2

[IluvXU]

Hey there :) Glad things are working out for you now.

I had a minor glitch this AM on the phone with Disney Dining... oh well!

I haven't gotten throught the whole report yet, but just wanted to say :wave2: and what a beautiful family you have! We have an Emily too and if we have a boy next, Luke is at the top of our name list!! Looking forward to reading more!

I always loved the name Luke... I had a Luke in my third class and he was just such a great boy.... I loved him dearly and probably have always liked the name since then. Luckily I just called him Luke so did the girls and DH had to give in. We do call him Buddy a lot too.... someday he will probably hate it.


Ok, I'm done reading! Your plans look great! I've never stayed at CSR, but it does look gorgeous. I love the updates they have made to the rooms. Enjoy that special time with your parents! My mom passed away in Aug. and I regret that she never got to experience WDW with DD.

Can't wait to read more!

I saw you posted on my PTR! I think you can still book Chef Mickey's 180 days out up to June 19th due to the new system change over. Check out this thread. I've been using it to keep up to date with the new ADR system.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1977770

I am sorry about your mom- my mom is my rock, she does so much for us. I am glad they get to see the kids and experience it with them too.
I am actually not having the usual resort doubt I normally have. I am up for trying CSR out.

Thanks for the heads up about Chef Mickeys and CRT.

Ooooh, I'd love to see some early morning pictures of that beautiful place!

It was just the one girl that got an attitude with Jill. We don't fault the whole place for her one minute of rudeness. :goodvibes Jill was scarred by it a little, because it was directed right at her, and it embarrassed her.

I bet the girls were so cute looking at the maps. Brooklynn gets out the scrapbooks and Birnbaums and maps and points out things. To her, it's 'my Epcot' and 'my Magic Kingdom'.

I hope you do get to see Fantasmic!

I am sure MeMom I will not get the # of pictures you do, but I sure plan to take a lot. I also want to make sure that the camera is always with me, and that my mom has hers (not a great one but better than none) so I don't miss anything. I think that is why a photopass CD will be helpful too, in case we are not all together and great pic opportunities arise.

As for the CM and Jill... it just bothers me. You see decade old mugs all the time... come on Disney you make a ton of $$$ off repeat visitors. WHo the heck cares about mugs and where they are bought and when they are bought! Plus making someone feel guilty at WDW is just stinky if you are a CM!


remind me again of what happened. i can't remember. they say memory's the first thing to go. :rotfl:

Jill was caught using her mug at CSR... and I guess they had different ones...

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:
That is exactly what I would do too!:thumbsup2 Way to go Laura on fanagling your ressie to get what you want!!!:thumbsup2 LOVE that the family is already planning what movies to bring in the car too! My kind of people!:thumbsup2

I am afraid with snow days we will barely be done with school as it is... we started late this year and only have one calamity day left- yikes!

[IluvXU]

Seven!!!!

Seven is a lot of park days for us. I cannot remember ever going to WDW and doing seven park days. Our last couple of trips included 5 park days and 3 park days. While this is exciting it calls for a different touring plan than we have done before with the girls. We typically did long days and then had a day off or went two days and had a day off. We enjoy the pools and DTD and dining when we are not park touring. So I am a bit lost.

Here are the thoughts at this point

1 day for sure at HS, AK, EPCOT. 2 days for sure at MK. That still leaves us with two more touring days. I would like to hit all four parks and then decide which park to return to, but this is hard with ADRS and non-hopping tickets. It leads me to plan a sit down at a resort, which I am fine with. One of the extra days will probably become a MK day.

At first I leaned towards EPCOT for two days, but last trip EPCOT was the only park we visited other than MK. So we have experienced more there the past two trips. The heat always does us in at AK, but there is a lot we have not done there. Since our hotel is closer to AK I am hoping on our AK day to return in the evening for some more fun.'

HS is my dad's favorite park. My parents really don't care... the planning is up to me, but I keep this in mind. However Hannah is not a fan. I hope Toy Story Mania will help change her mind and we will probably get her on Tower of Terror. Plus with all the shows it can be hard to fit in everything in one day!

I cannot wait for Park Hours and TGM's information so I can set our days more up and decide dining. Our arrival day we hope to get to the hotel by noon for a lot of swimming. I would like to get to DTD that night for dinner perhaps and to get Luke his first Disney trip ornament too!

We will get up on check out day and do some swimming before the long ride home. We will start parks on our check in of package day!

I truly welcome any advice from every day park tour families- we are entering a new type of trip!

[Happy Elf]

Seven!!!!
I cannot wait for Park Hours and TGM's information so I can set our days more up and decide dining. Our arrival day we hope to get to the hotel by noon for a lot of swimming. I would like to get to DTD that night for dinner perhaps and to get Luke his first Disney trip ornament too!



I agree! Makes planning hard when you don't know what the park hours are!
Have fun playing around with the 7 days! We have 5 park days.

The first Disney trip ornament sounds cute!

[Disneyfan71]

Trying to make plans w/o park hours is very hard. But I've been seeing a trend where MK closes around 11pm and Epcot closes around 10pm (World Showcase and Future World closes at 7pm) But again this is what I've seen when we're going--it could change by then!! If you're going in May it's more than likely MK will be open pretty late..as far as AK and DHS...not sure.

[MeMom]

remind me again of what happened. i can't remember. they say memory's the first thing to go. :rotfl:

Jill filled her mug up, thinking the new rule was that it could be at any of the resort drink islands. I believe that is how the sign read when we got them that time. We didn't realize that didn't include CSR. Instead of the lady saying nicely and quietly that she wasn't supposed to do that, she got an attitude and did the whole body shake hand wave thing and told Jill she needed to put that back!
Jill did.
She dumped the whole Coke, so either way, CSR lost out. I would gladly have paid the two bucks for the drink and just let Jill have it in the mug instead of the paper cup it would have come in if that lady had been nice and let us do that.

It embarrassed Jill, needless to say.

It's still a beautiful resort, and I have no problem visiting there to take pictures. I know that was a one moment in time incident, and I don't take it out on the whole resort. I imagine there have been less-than-friendly CMs at every resort that have traumatized other guests. It's just going to happen here and there.


Seven!!!!

Seven is a lot of park days for us. I cannot remember ever going to WDW and doing seven park days. Our last couple of trips included 5 park days and 3 park days. While this is exciting it calls for a different touring plan than we have done before with the girls. We typically did long days and then had a day off or went two days and had a day off. We enjoy the pools and DTD and dining when we are not park touring. So I am a bit lost.

Here are the thoughts at this point

1 day for sure at HS, AK, EPCOT. 2 days for sure at MK. That still leaves us with two more touring days. I would like to hit all four parks and then decide which park to return to, but this is hard with ADRS and non-hopping tickets. It leads me to plan a sit down at a resort, which I am fine with. One of the extra days will probably become a MK day.


HS is my dad's favorite park. My parents really don't care... the planning is up to me, but I keep this in mind. However Hannah is not a fan. I hope Toy Story Mania will help change her mind and we will probably get her on Tower of Terror. Plus with all the shows it can be hard to fit in everything in one day!


I truly welcome any advice from every day park tour families- we are entering a new type of trip!

It's hard to give other people advice, since everyone tours differently and has different tastes. It's kind of a good dilemma, though, to have park days to fill! :)

With the little ones, I'd go for three of the seven to be MK spread out a day or so apart. If you've done lots of Epcot, keep one for that. Personally, I'd go for Animal Kingdom, but I love that park!

If your dad loves Hollywood, there's a lot to be said for letting someone else have their favorite. Maybe you can just tell Hannah that it's Grandpa's day, and that's the one he likes best.

You don't have to stay the whole day, if you choose HS, and maybe the grandparents might want to stay to see Fantasmic or just stroll the streets of Hollywood while you guys go back to the resort, DTD, or to see a new resort.

Or they might want to just keep Emily with them at HS (if she likes it) and spend some special time with her. Mom or Dad could take Hannah to do something special with her, and the other one of you could spend time with just Luke. I never much thought about the splitting up idea, since we just have Brooklynn, but the janloz family did that with their two kids, and it seemed like it was nice for each kid to have a special time with parents and grandparents.

I think it is something I will keep in mind when I do have more than one grandchild going.

[Charleston Princess]

I am lost without June hours right now. I am not used to waiting this long for them.

You have two park days unaccounted for? How about you do resort dining, like you said, for those two days, and that way you can go to whichever park you feel like spending more time in -- that might be the best way to approach it.

[punkin413]

i would think epcot or HS would be best for you guys. i think epcot needs 2 days to fully tour. and if your dad likes DHS, that would be good too, especially since there's so many shows there and it's hard to get it all in one day. AK can be done in one day easy. and i think resort dining is a good choice at either epcot or HS. you've got lots to choose from in that area: spoodles, ESPN club, big river, beaches & cream, cape may cafe and then the nice 2TS restaurants, flying fish and yachtmen steakhouse. if you chose one of those you could choose either epcot or HS on those extra days and not commit to anything specific.

Jill filled her mug up, thinking the new rule was that it could be at any of the resort drink islands. I believe that is how the sign read when we got them that time. We didn't realize that didn't include CSR. Instead of the lady saying nicely and quietly that she wasn't supposed to do that, she got an attitude and did the whole body shake hand wave thing and told Jill she needed to put that back!
Jill did.
She dumped the whole Coke, so either way, CSR lost out. I would gladly have paid the two bucks for the drink and just let Jill have it in the mug instead of the paper cup it would have come in if that lady had been nice and let us do that.

It embarrassed Jill, needless to say.


yeah, that seems completely unnecessary and i probably would've told the CM that. but my mouth is sometimes uncontrollable and it's one of my admitted faults. :rolleyes:

[cjackearl]

Hi, I lurked on your last TR and thought your family was just adorable. I also have two little girls (not so little anymore, I guess:sad1: ) and a little boy. We're going to Disney in June also, staying at BC, and will be driving for the first time. Following your TR will hopefully help me stay focused with the planning. We haven't been since '05, so I've been planning forever! I need a second wind now. Thanks for sharing your darling family and your plans.
Christine

[MegansMom]

Hey Sweetie---so glad that the CSR info helped out!!!

As far as trying to figure out what to do with your touring dilemmas--I would probably make some resort dining ressies so that you can be more flexible with those two days and where you want to go.

If you are going to be going all 7 days, I would just really try to take it in stride still---try to get there always at park opening, stay until lunch or so, head back for swimming or naps, and then head back in the evening---it will help you feel like you are still getting some down time. Good luck with the planning!

[IluvXU]

I agree! Makes planning hard when you don't know what the park hours are!
Have fun playing around with the 7 days! We have 5 park days.

The first Disney trip ornament sounds cute!

I just want the May hours out so then I know mine are next. I know I can make my ADRs on March 15 so I have until then if necessary. But I want TGM charts done too, so we will see!

Both the girls have personalized ornaments from our first trip - Hannah has a pink minnie on an ornament and Emily has the mouse ears one- hers never made it to the three this year, it is on a shelf in her room. Who knows what Luke will end up with?


Trying to make plans w/o park hours is very hard. But I've been seeing a trend where MK closes around 11pm and Epcot closes around 10pm (World Showcase and Future World closes at 7pm) But again this is what I've seen when we're going--it could change by then!! If you're going in May it's more than likely MK will be open pretty late..as far as AK and DHS...not sure.


I doubt late hours makes much difference...we won't be out too late. I am more concerned with where the extra hours are and that schedule.



It's hard to give other people advice, since everyone tours differently and has different tastes. It's kind of a good dilemma, though, to have park days to fill! :)

With the little ones, I'd go for three of the seven to be MK spread out a day or so apart. If you've done lots of Epcot, keep one for that. Personally, I'd go for Animal Kingdom, but I love that park!

If your dad loves Hollywood, there's a lot to be said for letting someone else have their favorite. Maybe you can just tell Hannah that it's Grandpa's day, and that's the one he likes best.

You don't have to stay the whole day, if you choose HS, and maybe the grandparents might want to stay to see Fantasmic or just stroll the streets of Hollywood while you guys go back to the resort, DTD, or to see a new resort.

Or they might want to just keep Emily with them at HS (if she likes it) and spend some special time with her. Mom or Dad could take Hannah to do something special with her, and the other one of you could spend time with just Luke. I never much thought about the splitting up idea, since we just have Brooklynn, but the janloz family did that with their two kids, and it seemed like it was nice for each kid to have a special time with parents and grandparents.

I think it is something I will keep in mind when I do have more than one grandchild going.

I think we will for sure do MK three days. If things work out I will leave the unknown day till Tuesday- I know our last day I want to be at MK! I have a feeling there will be some splitting up and I am okay with that. With three kids who can ride different things and 4 adults I can do it. I just want to make sure that I am everywhere... I hate to miss out!

I am lost without June hours right now. I am not used to waiting this long for them.

You have two park days unaccounted for? How about you do resort dining, like you said, for those two days, and that way you can go to whichever park you feel like spending more time in -- that might be the best way to approach it.


I think we are going to over book our ADRS by at least one and cancel what we don't use. I just need to decide what meals are still in the running ....

[Disneyfan71]

That's what makes going to the parks even harder. You see EMH's at say AK and then MK on the same day..or Epcot and MK on the same day. I do know when we're there Epcot has early EMH's and MK has late EMH's :) At least it's a little harder for us. But it does help in planning your ADR's :)

[IluvXU]

i would think epcot or HS would be best for you guys. i think epcot needs 2 days to fully tour. and if your dad likes DHS, that would be good too, especially since there's so many shows there and it's hard to get it all in one day. AK can be done in one day easy. and i think resort dining is a good choice at either epcot or HS. you've got lots to choose from in that area: spoodles, ESPN club, big river, beaches & cream, cape may cafe and then the nice 2TS restaurants, flying fish and yachtmen steakhouse. if you chose one of those you could choose either epcot or HS on those extra days and not commit to anything specific.
[QUOTE]


There is a lot on that list I have not tried.... I would love to do two days at AK but I think it will be just so darn hot there. I have almost committed to not having a set plan for that day. I also think three days at MK will be so great... we can take it slower and do what we want a couple of times. Plus someday it won't be the park that my kids really love, so we need to spend the time there now!

[QUOTE=cjackearl;29894526]Hi, I lurked on your last TR and thought your family was just adorable. I also have two little girls (not so little anymore, I guess:sad1: ) and a little boy. We're going to Disney in June also, staying at BC, and will be driving for the first time. Following your TR will hopefully help me stay focused with the planning. We haven't been since '05, so I've been planning forever! I need a second wind now. Thanks for sharing your darling family and your plans.
Christine

Beach Club- how fun! What a fantastic pool area! I would rather be driving with your age kids than mine... I try to block that out of my mind!

Hey Sweetie---so glad that the CSR info helped out!!!

As far as trying to figure out what to do with your touring dilemmas--I would probably make some resort dining ressies so that you can be more flexible with those two days and where you want to go.

If you are going to be going all 7 days, I would just really try to take it in stride still---try to get there always at park opening, stay until lunch or so, head back for swimming or naps, and then head back in the evening---it will help you feel like you are still getting some down time. Good luck with the planning!

How Jen did you use your seven days last summer-- what was the breakdown. Just curious!

I for sure want to take breaks and enjoy the pool and get some naps in the ac for Luke. I used your list for my requests and will take it with me so that if we check in and it is not what I want I have ideas on where I want to be!

[IluvXU]

Anniversary! The 24th of June, our last park day is our 9th anniversary! I hope to do something special since we are back at WDW. I doubt we will leave the kids with my parents for a special meal since well, 3 will be a handful. However I want to try to plan something special! Ideas?

[MegansMom]

Breakdown from June 2008 trip:

Arrival day (Sat)--pool and DTD
Sunday---AK
Monday---MK
Tuesday---EP
Wednesday--MK
Thursday---DHS
Friday---MK
Saturday---MK

This worked out really well for us!!!

[punkin413]

whatever restaurant you eat at that day, be sure to tell them that it's your anniversary. you might get a little surprise (like a personalized dessert or table decorations). also, tell the hotel that it's your anniversary and you may get a card/balloon from a character and also get free happy anniversary pins from the front desk at the hotel or at guest services at the parks. the CMs really notice it and will continue to congratulate you guys all day! :goodvibes

[tinkgurl]

Anniversary! The 24th of June, our last park day is our 9th anniversary! I hope to do something special since we are back at WDW. I doubt we will leave the kids with my parents for a special meal since well, 3 will be a handful. However I want to try to plan something special! Ideas?

That would be funny if we ended up at the same park that day! :laughing: I think maybe try the Coral Reef and make a personalized menu for your anniversary? :confused3

[MeMom]

I just want to make sure that I am everywhere... I hate to miss out!



That might be a teeny tiny bit hard to do! :)

The last day at Magic Kingdom will be great when you get there,
and sad when you leave.

Brooklynn cried her way out of Magic Kingdom on our last trip. When we told her it was time to go, she started saying, "Noooo. My Magic Kiiiiiingdom!" It wasn't hateful or bratty; it was just a sad wailing that came from her heart. She wanted more times on Dumbo and Peter Pan and horsies. It was so sad that I don't know if I even want to go into Magic Kingdom without her in March. I'm thinking about shortening our trip by a day and just going to two parks - Epcot for the Flower and Garden stuff and Animal Kingdom, because I love Animal Kingdom. Cutting off one day and two parks would help the cost a lot, too.

Mostly, I feel guilty about going into Magic Kingdom without my little Brooklynn.

[lmillercrew]

I followed you on your last TR and I'm joining in on this one too. Luke is such a cute little guy!
We are going to be there at the same time. We are staying at POR with the 4/3, and using AAA discount. Our dates are 16-25.
We have done 7 days of parks, but we usually go commando because we're never sure when and if we are coming back. Now that all of the kids have been a couple of times, we are going to split up the days with pool time at the resort. I just feel obligated to be at the parks when we are there. I told DH, this time I want to be able to just relax a bit and enjoy our hotel. Can't wait to here more about your planning.

[IluvXU]

That's what makes going to the parks even harder. You see EMH's at say AK and then MK on the same day..or Epcot and MK on the same day. I do know when we're there Epcot has early EMH's and MK has late EMH's :) At least it's a little harder for us. But it does help in planning your ADR's :)

I am just going to wait patiently:rotfl2:

Breakdown from June 2008 trip:

Arrival day (Sat)--pool and DTD
Sunday---AK
Monday---MK
Tuesday---EP
Wednesday--MK
Thursday---DHS
Friday---MK
Saturday---MK

This worked out really well for us!!!

Thanks Jen! I thought you did at least three MK days... and I compare Megs to my girls in terms of what they like. Did you do Toy Story Mania with her?

whatever restaurant you eat at that day, be sure to tell them that it's your anniversary. you might get a little surprise (like a personalized dessert or table decorations). also, tell the hotel that it's your anniversary and you may get a card/balloon from a character and also get free happy anniversary pins from the front desk at the hotel or at guest services at the parks. the CMs really notice it and will continue to congratulate you guys all day! :goodvibes

We did not plan to be there then... but it is kinda neat. It is just our nine year anniversary... not a big one. However who knows when we will be there again on our anniversary. I will get those pins though!

That would be funny if we ended up at the same park that day! :laughing: I think maybe try the Coral Reef and make a personalized menu for your anniversary? :confused3


I don't think Coral Reef is doing that anymore. I really want to be in MK that day though so we will see!

That might be a teeny tiny bit hard to do! :)

The last day at Magic Kingdom will be great when you get there,
and sad when you leave.

Brooklynn cried her way out of Magic Kingdom on our last trip. When we told her it was time to go, she started saying, "Noooo. My Magic Kiiiiiingdom!" It wasn't hateful or bratty; it was just a sad wailing that came from her heart. She wanted more times on Dumbo and Peter Pan and horsies. It was so sad that I don't know if I even want to go into Magic Kingdom without her in March. I'm thinking about shortening our trip by a day and just going to two parks - Epcot for the Flower and Garden stuff and Animal Kingdom, because I love Animal Kingdom. Cutting off one day and two parks would help the cost a lot, too.

Mostly, I feel guilty about going into Magic Kingdom without my little Brooklynn.


MeMom you make me cry... what a great MeMom you are to Brooklynn. It will just be different.. and you will probably see things you will want to share with her this summer. It is not like you don't have a trip planned with her- remember that too. As for the crying... it is a terrible thing. I will forever remember Hannah wailing as we left the WL- I just cried behind my sunglasses.

I followed you on your last TR and I'm joining in on this one too. Luke is such a cute little guy!
We are going to be there at the same time. We are staying at POR with the 4/3, and using AAA discount. Our dates are 16-25.
We have done 7 days of parks, but we usually go commando because we're never sure when and if we are coming back. Now that all of the kids have been a couple of times, we are going to split up the days with pool time at the resort. I just feel obligated to be at the parks when we are there. I told DH, this time I want to be able to just relax a bit and enjoy our hotel. Can't wait to here more about your planning.


I love POR- we couldn't get rooms there. Now though I am committed to staying at a new place, one that we won't fit in as a party of five. Hannah just asked tonight if we would go back to there someday- I know we will.

[Hillary12.8.07]

I just found you!

YAY, I'm so glad you are getting to go back so soon, and with the new baby, how FUN!! I've heard/seen great things about CSR, I think you will enjoy it. I would like to try it out one day so I'm looking forward to hearing your review of it!!

[MegansMom]

That would be funny if we ended up at the same park that day! :laughing: I think maybe try the Coral Reef and make a personalized menu for your anniversary? :confused3

Sadly, they no longer do the personalized menus anymore!!! :sad2:

That might be a teeny tiny bit hard to do! :)

The last day at Magic Kingdom will be great when you get there,
and sad when you leave.

Brooklynn cried her way out of Magic Kingdom on our last trip. When we told her it was time to go, she started saying, "Noooo. My Magic Kiiiiiingdom!" It wasn't hateful or bratty; it was just a sad wailing that came from her heart. She wanted more times on Dumbo and Peter Pan and horsies. It was so sad that I don't know if I even want to go into Magic Kingdom without her in March. I'm thinking about shortening our trip by a day and just going to two parks - Epcot for the Flower and Garden stuff and Animal Kingdom, because I love Animal Kingdom. Cutting off one day and two parks would help the cost a lot, too.

Mostly, I feel guilty about going into Magic Kingdom without my little Brooklynn.

Oh MeMom--you are too sweet!!!! Poor little Miss Brooklyn---don't we all know EXACTLY how she feels, and want to be able to cry the same way too when we leave!!!!!!!!!!!

I followed you on your last TR and I'm joining in on this one too. Luke is such a cute little guy!
We are going to be there at the same time. We are staying at POR with the 4/3, and using AAA discount. Our dates are 16-25.
We have done 7 days of parks, but we usually go commando because we're never sure when and if we are coming back. Now that all of the kids have been a couple of times, we are going to split up the days with pool time at the resort. I just feel obligated to be at the parks when we are there. I told DH, this time I want to be able to just relax a bit and enjoy our hotel. Can't wait to here more about your planning.

You can do the 4/3 promo and the AAA discount at the same time???? Please---more details!!!!

Thanks Jen! I thought you did at least three MK days... and I compare Megs to my girls in terms of what they like. Did you do Toy Story Mania with her?

We did TSM with her twice---she LOVED it!!!! It is so cute and so much fun! Get a fastpass early on---they go fast!!

We did not plan to be there then... but it is kinda neat. It is just our nine year anniversary... not a big one. However who knows when we will be there again on our anniversary. I will get those pins though!

Since we are celebrating our 10 year in July, we are going to try to do something to make our September trip a celebration of that event----Lord knows we don't want to go to Mickey's House in July!!!! We would melt much too quickly! :goodvibes




I don't think Coral Reef is doing that anymore. I really want to be in MK that day though so we will see!




As for the crying... it is a terrible thing. I will forever remember Hannah wailing as we left the WL- I just cried behind my sunglasses.

Megan gave us a beautifully sad little pouty face as we left MK on that last day---I even took a picture of it because I thought it so perfectly embodied what we were all feeling. I get misty-eyed everytime I have to leave---always wishing for "just one more day!"


I love POR- we couldn't get rooms there. Now though I am committed to staying at a new place, one that we won't fit in as a party of five. Hannah just asked tonight if we would go back to there someday- I know we will.

I wanted to ask you---my aunt and uncle are heading down at the end of March and staying at POR---do you have any tips or recommendations for them for staying at that resort? I haven't stayed there since it was Dixie Landings, so I don't remember that much about besides that it is beautiful! Is there a good place to request to stay?

[lmillercrew]

Apparently I was misinformed, or I misunderstood. I called WDW ressies this morning to check and see what my room costs where and if I got the AAA discount on the room. I had orginally booked a room only ressie, and then the deal came out. So, anyway, since I switched to the package, no AAA discount. Sorry to excite anyone. It's still a good deal. We got 6/3 at POR with 5 one day base tickets for $1641.
Sorry to hyjack your thread. I just know people were thinking. Can't wait to hear more about your planning. :thumbsup2

[IluvXU]

I just found you!

YAY, I'm so glad you are getting to go back so soon, and with the new baby, how FUN!! I've heard/seen great things about CSR, I think you will enjoy it. I would like to try it out one day so I'm looking forward to hearing your review of it!!

Glad you joined us!



We did TSM with her twice---she LOVED it!!!! It is so cute and so much fun! Get a fastpass early on---they go fast!!


Megan gave us a beautifully sad little pouty face as we left MK on that last day---I even took a picture of it because I thought it so perfectly embodied what we were all feeling. I get misty-eyed everytime I have to leave---always wishing for "just one more day!"


I wanted to ask you---my aunt and uncle are heading down at the end of March and staying at POR---do you have any tips or recommendations for them for staying at that resort? I haven't stayed there since it was Dixie Landings, so I don't remember that much about besides that it is beautiful! Is there a good place to request to stay?

Glad Megan loved TSM- I hope the girls do. The leaving pictures are impt... good to pull out when dad does not want to go back!

As for POR I think Alligator Bayou close to the main building is the best. I thought getting on the buses there too was impt since it seemed the outlying stops were always crowded and turned into standing room only!

Apparently I was misinformed, or I misunderstood. I called WDW ressies this morning to check and see what my room costs where and if I got the AAA discount on the room. I had orginally booked a room only ressie, and then the deal came out. So, anyway, since I switched to the package, no AAA discount. Sorry to excite anyone. It's still a good deal. We got 6/3 at POR with 5 one day base tickets for $1641.
Sorry to hyjack your thread. I just know people were thinking. Can't wait to hear more about your planning. :thumbsup2


I was pretty sure no AAA discount on top. We had AAA price it out too to check, and wondered if different resort availablity would be found.

[IluvXU]

SNOW DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We have been truly lazy, snowed in and probably will get more tonight. Hannah went out in the snow, but Emily stayed inside. She had a terrible cough and needs to be healthy for her surgery in two weeks. We did spend some time looking at YouTube WDW videos- super fun. We checked out some old favorites and things that the girls have not experienced. What a way to spend a cold day- pretending you are at WDW!

[DreaGirl]

Yeah for a snow day!! I used to love those days so much!!

What kind of surgery having? I hope she starts feeling better soon.

You have me thinking about changing our reservation in October from ASM-Family Suite to CSR. I was showing DH some pics and we both really like it. :)

[tinkgurl]

SNOW DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We have been truly lazy, snowed in and probably will get more tonight. Hannah went out in the snow, but Emily stayed inside. She had a terrible cough and needs to be healthy for her surgery in two weeks. We did spend some time looking at YouTube WDW videos- super fun. We checked out some old favorites and things that the girls have not experienced. What a way to spend a cold day- pretending you are at WDW!

What an awesome way to spend a snow day! I know when I was younger and had snow days, my sister and I would do fun things around the house with my mom so I know this was a day that the girls will remember.

And what's more fun than pretending you're at WDW than actually being there?!

[Happy Elf]

Great way to spend a snow day!!!! It the rate the snow is coming down at my house right now, I may have one tomorrow! I'm torn...it would be nice to have the day off, but then it adds a day in June.

[MeMom]

We almost got one, and are hoping for one tomorrow. It's been raining all day, and it'll freeze tonight. I wish for no one to have a wreck in it, but I'll take a day at home to do paperwork. We've been amazed by having two so far, because we rarely get any.

Watching youtube videos is a great way to get the kids ready! Have you ever watched surprise Disney trip videos? Some of them make me cry. There's a few where some of the kids cry tears of joy, and their happiness makes me cry.

When Brooklynn was sobbing her way out of Maic Kingdom, Jill said softly, but aloud, "It's okay, baby. You're only saying what we're all thinking." That was true, but somehow I don't think it would have been nearly as cute if Jill and I had been crying out, "My Magic Kingdom!" as we left. ;)

[teacher9702]

We had a snow day today and get one tomorrow. So far these have been are only two this school year. It has done nothing but sleet here in Southern Illinois. It did snow some but not much. My husband had to work last night and it normally only takes him 18 mins from door to door but last night it took 45 mins. The weather people are saying there is more to come...more sleet with it changing over to snow...don't excatly know how much but they did say that tomorrow morning will be worse than this morning. I am glad I am staying in. I just wish we had snow so they kids could make a decent snowman. We rarely get to do that around here.

[Charleston Princess]

Can't believe that you are getting so much snow!!! Hope everyone stays warm and cozy! It was 60 here today -- we just can't get snow to save our lives this year.

[bertegirl]

I'll share... but with the snow comes our 40 below weather. I mean really is it May yet?

[IluvXU]

Yeah for a snow day!! I used to love those days so much!!

What kind of surgery having? I hope she starts feeling better soon.

You have me thinking about changing our reservation in October from ASM-Family Suite to CSR. I was showing DH some pics and we both really like it. :)

It was nice... but awfully cold to play in the snow. Nor did it improve weather wise- yikes! Now I want you to stay in the suites to have a first hand report of them because I think they sound great too!

What an awesome way to spend a snow day! I know when I was younger and had snow days, my sister and I would do fun things around the house with my mom so I know this was a day that the girls will remember.

And what's more fun than pretending you're at WDW than actually being there?!

I am not sure what I will do to entertain them tomorrow. We have had sick kids and been trying to keep Luke and Emily in so they can get rid of their nasty cough.

Great way to spend a snow day!!!! It the rate the snow is coming down at my house right now, I may have one tomorrow! I'm torn...it would be nice to have the day off, but then it adds a day in June.

Yep... we are now over our days and will be making up a day the Friday before President's Day. We were supposed to have a 4 day weekend!


We almost got one, and are hoping for one tomorrow. It's been raining all day, and it'll freeze tonight. I wish for no one to have a wreck in it, but I'll take a day at home to do paperwork. We've been amazed by having two so far, because we rarely get any.

Watching youtube videos is a great way to get the kids ready! Have you ever watched surprise Disney trip videos? Some of them make me cry. There's a few where some of the kids cry tears of joy, and their happiness makes me cry.

When Brooklynn was sobbing her way out of Maic Kingdom, Jill said softly, but aloud, "It's okay, baby. You're only saying what we're all thinking." That was true, but somehow I don't think it would have been nearly as cute if Jill and I had been crying out, "My Magic Kingdom!" as we left. ;)

I will have to look at some surprise trip videos tomorrow! It did make for some fun this afternoon. I worked hard on report cards to give them to my teaching partner. Now we will be behind two days at school, and had a delay Monday. I feel as if I have not worked since Friday and am way way behind.

I agree watching sobbing adults leaving MK is not too cute... even though we sob on the inside!

We had a snow day today and get one tomorrow. So far these have been are only two this school year. It has done nothing but sleet here in Southern Illinois. It did snow some but not much. My husband had to work last night and it normally only takes him 18 mins from door to door but last night it took 45 mins. The weather people are saying there is more to come...more sleet with it changing over to snow...don't excatly know how much but they did say that tomorrow morning will be worse than this morning. I am glad I am staying in. I just wish we had snow so they kids could make a decent snowman. We rarely get to do that around here.


It was fun sledding but no snowman was built. I did not even go out in the snow--- Luke was awake and I am trying to get Emily well so I was a mean mom and kept her in. She was mad at me!

Can't believe that you are getting so much snow!!! Hope everyone stays warm and cozy! It was 60 here today -- we just can't get snow to save our lives this year.

60 degrees sounds heavenly--- I want my kids to get outside and run around some of their energy- both at home and school!


I'll share... but with the snow comes our 40 below weather. I mean really is it May yet?


Yes... today is a day I cannot wait for summer!

[IluvXU]

SNOW DAY #2 TOMORROW!!!! I am glad we have week between the end of our school year and when we arrive at WDW- it is only January and we are out of our allotted 5 Days

[Charleston Princess]

I can't believe the winter you are having!!! It's really quite crazy!!!

[Happy Elf]

Enjoy your second day!

[wigdoutdismom]

I was counting on an early am call today and it didn't come so out into the snow and ice we went......We have not had a singe snow day yet!

[lmillercrew]

No delays or cancellations for us yet. You guys got slammed though, I think!

[DreaGirl]

Happy Snow Day #2! That does stink that you will have to go farthe rin the summer though.

[MegansMom]

Hey Laura---looking out at all the snow and the ice on the EVERYTHING, thinking about how you are seeing the exact same thing!!! Yesterday we got close to 7", then the ice came---with as hard as the snow is coming down right now, who knows how much we will have before it is all over!

BTW--I SO love looking at the youtube videos---gets me through until the next time I am there!

[BrooklynnsMommy]

I am all caught up now. You will love watching Luke as he sees the characters for the first time. He will be just a month younger than Brooklynn was when she made her first trip to the World. I look back at the pictures often and just smile. She won't remember any of it, but I will never forget.

[IluvXU]

I can't believe the winter you are having!!! It's really quite crazy!!!

I am not real confident that we will go tomorrow. It snowed a lot this AM and the interstates are clear, but not the streets- I need out of my house!

Enjoy your second day!

I am quickly running out of things to do and entertain with.

I was counting on an early am call today and it didn't come so out into the snow and ice we went......We have not had a singe snow day yet!

I like mine spread out... and not to go over the limit like we are now--- I have a WDW trip to go on!

No delays or cancellations for us yet. You guys got slammed though, I think!


I looked out at seven to a lot of ice, but not much snow- but between 7-12 we just got a good amnt quick.

Happy Snow Day #2! That does stink that you will have to go farthe rin the summer though.

I only worry since it is January... we still could get days through March...

Hey Laura---looking out at all the snow and the ice on the EVERYTHING, thinking about how you are seeing the exact same thing!!! Yesterday we got close to 7", then the ice came---with as hard as the snow is coming down right now, who knows how much we will have before it is all over!

BTW--I SO love looking at the youtube videos---gets me through until the next time I am there!

No videos today, but they sure are fun. My kids did not even play outside today, Hannah saw her friends and did not even care- too cold I guess!

I am all caught up now. You will love watching Luke as he sees the characters for the first time. He will be just a month younger than Brooklynn was when she made her first trip to the World. I look back at the pictures often and just smile. She won't remember any of it, but I will never forget.

Jill I totally agree, I remember so vivid the stories with pictures and trips with the girls. WDW is for all ages! So glad to having you reading!

[FairyGodmotherJen]

Well, I think I lurked through your last trip - figured I'd come out of hiding and let you know that I really enjoyed it, and am enjoying your pre-trip!!! I'm another one that's had to tell the kids we're skipping this year...and though we were tempted (badly) when the 4/3 deal came out, with an out-of-state wedding AND 100th birthday celebration, it won't happen. I'm getting lots of ideas from you though, and our kids are fairly similar in age, so I figure I'll continue to do so! :goodvibes (My youngest DS - born last April - has the same Disney onesie as your Luke. I love it!)

We'll be going in 2010 with extended family, as well (lots of it, though). My SIL and I are looking forward to all of the planning. And since we had a snow day today, as well, I've at least gotten a little time on the DIS (and time to grade papers, but I guess you've gotta give somewhere). Let's hope for no more snow days for either of us, and to more updates, as well!!

[Charleston Princess]

Another snow day??? :eek: I'd send you some of our warmer weather if I could -- I don't want all these snow days to interfere with your Disney trip!

[IluvXU]

We are off again! The roads are still terrible even though it has not snowed since yesterday at noon!



Well, I think I lurked through your last trip - figured I'd come out of hiding and let you know that I really enjoyed it, and am enjoying your pre-trip!!! I'm another one that's had to tell the kids we're skipping this year...and though we were tempted (badly) when the 4/3 deal came out, with an out-of-state wedding AND 100th birthday celebration, it won't happen. I'm getting lots of ideas from you though, and our kids are fairly similar in age, so I figure I'll continue to do so! :goodvibes (My youngest DS - born last April - has the same Disney onesie as your Luke. I love it!)

We'll be going in 2010 with extended family, as well (lots of it, though). My SIL and I are looking forward to all of the planning. And since we had a snow day today, as well, I've at least gotten a little time on the DIS (and time to grade papers, but I guess you've gotta give somewhere). Let's hope for no more snow days for either of us, and to more updates, as well!!

Thanks for joining in! I read your report lurking too!

Another snow day??? :eek: I'd send you some of our warmer weather if I could -- I don't want all these snow days to interfere with your Disney trip!

I am getting a tad bit worried. Nothing to do yet about it. We were supposed to be off Feb. 13, not anymore!

[IluvXU]

Another snow day- that makes 4 this week... we are creeping slowly towards our WDW trip! Hopefully we will hear how we are making up the days next week!

[MegansMom]

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you with respect to having everything made up before your trip----does your district ever consider adding minutes on to the school day to make up time? We did that one year several years back when I was teaching, and it was WONDERFUL!

[Disneyfan71]

We just had snow last week..a rare occurrence in NC

[IluvXU]

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you with respect to having everything made up before your trip----does your district ever consider adding minutes on to the school day to make up time? We did that one year several years back when I was teaching, and it was WONDERFUL!

We have some resolution already... coming up!

We just had snow last week..a rare occurrence in NC

I don't remember ever this many days off...

[IluvXU]

So this week has been a stressful week for WDW plans. We made phone calls to move back our trip, which would have resulted in changing hotels, views and all kinds of crazy things. Finally a CM said to leave it and they would work with me if I had to move my trip (not sure what that would look like, but it made me feel better!) We even discussed going later in the summer, figuring the economy will lead to more deals for August. In Ohio you have five calamity days before you make the days up. We unfortunately lost three to a terrible wind storm, 1 for a subzero day a week or so and then four this week, making us at eight days off. We would then have to make up three.... ticking ever so close to my trip!

Luckily today though my district shared their plan for the days. We are now having school on February 12th (a planned professional day- hooray, I would much rather be teaching than in meetings) and have school on that Friday as well, which had orginally been a day off. That means at this point we only go one day later in June, which still give me a few days (3) before we need to be in WDW! I am a lot less worried... now I just don't need anymore big snows!

Coming tomorrow- I promise! ADRs... we have seven TS credits, so what have we planned and ideas I need from you!

[Disneyfan71]

So when are you going? I can't remember what you said earlier :)

[tinkgurl]

Coming tomorrow- I promise! ADRs... we have seven TS credits, so what have we planned and ideas I need from you!

Can't wait! :cheer2:

[MegansMom]

So glad to hear that your school is going to try to work it out for you before June! Looking forward to ADR revelations!!!

[Charleston Princess]

Fingers crossed for no more snow since the district has figured out the ones you have had already. Nothing, absolutely nothing, should come between you and WDW! :goodvibes

[IluvXU]

So when are you going? I can't remember what you said earlier :)


We leave on June 16th, arrive at WDW the 17th and our 4/3 starts the 18th :cheer2:

Can't wait! :cheer2:

Coming up in a minute!

So glad to hear that your school is going to try to work it out for you before June! Looking forward to ADR revelations!!!


I did not worry finally about our trip and the changes. It was especially worse because my parents worry more than me and were really concerned.

Fingers crossed for no more snow since the district has figured out the ones you have had already. Nothing, absolutely nothing, should come between you and WDW! :goodvibes

I can see pavement... that is a good sign, although our driveway gets no sun hardly so it is a sheet of ice!

[IluvXU]

So when are you going? I can't remember what you said earlier :)

We leave on the 16th, arrive at WDW CSR on the 17th and start our package on the 18th!

Can't wait! :cheer2:

Up Next!


So glad to hear that your school is going to try to work it out for you before June! Looking forward to ADR revelations!!!

:cool1: :cool1:

Fingers crossed for no more snow since the district has figured out the ones you have had already. Nothing, absolutely nothing, should come between you and WDW! :goodvibes

That was my mantra all week!

[DreaGirl]

Oh gosh! I hope that the weather is perfect from here on out! Didn't you leave really soon after school last year?

Are you going to split up the drive or drive straight through?

[IluvXU]

ADRs!!!

The Dining Plan- I know it has tons of fans and I am not sold on whether I am in love with it or not. To be honest the no appetizer is fine by me, it was so much food before. I barely enjoyed my snacks because I was stuffed. When my mom said she wanted to get the dining plan though I was not going to argue. I knew that with the dining plan we would for sure stop and eat. That is not my dad's strong point... he just goes and goes without stopping to eat. This way we will have time to rest and eat in the AC- important in June and when you have three kids under six.

Here is what I am thinking so far:

Cinderella's Royal Table
http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/101_0174.jpg

Immediately I said we would be going to Cinderella's Royal Table. It was our favorite meal last trip and the girls loved eating in the Castle with the princesses. Plus it is an experience, and my dad has never ate in the Castle, and mom mom has not since I was like eleven. I would like a lunch ADR, personally on our anniversary, the 24th, our last park day.However I am willing to change days to get a lunch reservation. I would also like a later lunch time...so we can get lots done before we eat and then head out for a break. The girls both say this is the one meal that they want to do the most... and at some point I doubt DH will drag our little Luke to eat there!

Crystal Palace
http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/100_2286.jpg

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/100_2293.jpg

I would like to go to the Crystal Palace for breakfast, first thing ADRS before the park opens! I have envy when I see families entering Main Street before the park opens, so I hope to get some of those fantastic, before you sweat to death pictures in the morning with my family! Plus I have heard great things about the breakfast. We have been there once, for dinner and as Emily has said- I need my picture with Piglet! (That little girl had better not be hesistant of the characters this trip- she sure is talking big right now). Plus Luke seemingly is attached to his Tigger the girls chose for him- he sleeps with it at night beside him... it is cute! My parents have never been there... and my mom can't even place where it is at MK. Personally I love how pretty it is and the topiaries are so fun!

LeCellier

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We have dined there for dinner two years ago and could not get reservations last year due to booking later. I would like to return because it was super yummy and I think my parents would enjoy it. Notice Hannah is eating the pretzel bread- yummy!

Chef Mickey's

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It is a family tradition at this point, especially for first trips to WDW. DH and I went on our first trip together (our Honeymoon) Hannah and Emily also went on their first trips too. So of course Luke needs to go. I liked last trip having it be our first meal, but I think I might wait so that Luke has a few days to warm up to the characters first. Again another meal my parents have not done. DH said this was a must do and the girls are on board too!

Mama Melrose

Sorry no pictures... I have only been there once, on our honeymoon. I am picking this so that we can do the Fantasmic Dinner Package so that we can try to get some seats for the show. We all like Italian, so I figure this will work for everybody! I have not done the dinner package before so tips would be awesome!

And then where to use our final dining credit? We have thrown out some different ideas... OHana's, Whispering Canyon, Cape May Cafe.... I am really not sure. Since I am somewhat up in the air about one park day I am somewhat flexible. I think the meal needs to be outside of the parks so we can schedule it on our flex day. I am not sure what I am looking for that day, so any opinions places to try are welcome. We are not as a whole the most adventurous eaters too, especially DH and and my dad! I also don't care if it character dining, but I do think we want a dinner reservation.

[DreaGirl]

Yum, Yum, and Yum!

We LOVE Crystal Palace. It is a tradition for us to eat breakfast there on our first MK day. We love walking in to an empty park. The breakfast food is so yummy too. :)

We have never eaten at the Castle, but a friend just got back last week and she said it was their favorite meal.

LeCellier is soooo good! I can taste that pretzle bread and mushroom filet. DH has said we will not be going back until our kids are older because DD doesn't do well in soft lighting. It makes her more hyper if that is possible!

I was going to suggest O'Hana or Cape May for a non-park day. I haven't been to either, but really want to go after reading a few trip reports lately. I don't think you could go wrong with either. Although the girls would probably have fun at Whispering Canyon....

What about Wolfgang Puck's at DTD? We ate there for lunch our first trip and it remains one of our favorite meals.

[Happy Elf]

Your ADR plans sounds great! We are planning very similar ADR's. We love the character meals, I have great memories of our last trip.

[wlwilliams9]

You're ADR's look great! We're looking forward to CRT and LeCellier, we've never eaten at those two!

[dddisrunner]

Good choices for ADR'S!:thumbsup2 We might be trying CRT this year too...my boys have vowed to let their mommy try a princess meal:thumbsup2 Sorry about the snow you have had! We have had NONE:sad2: We have no days built in though so it is probably a good thing:thumbsup2 LOVE the old pictures of the girls, they are so precious:goodvibes

[Charleston Princess]

Good choices on the ADRs! Hannah and Emily are so cute in all your photos! I am hoping for an early morning ADR at CP, too!

[MegansMom]

My ideas for your last TS---keeping it outside a park of course:

Either O'hana, Kona Cafe, or Grand Floridian Cafe. All three are good in my opinion!!! Love the ones you have so far---making me salivate as we speak!

[MaryAz]

Glad the extra days are not going to affect your trip. The ADR"S look great! Now, I am questioning CRTvs Akherus. Hmmm, what to do.....

[BrooklynnsMommy]

ADR's all sound yummy. We've done Ohana for breakfast and loved it. We also love Whispering Canyon - great food and fun atmosphere.

[Lady Lallie]

Getting into Magic Kingdom before opening and then having breakfast with Pooh is the best. It's so much fun to see the park that empty, plus a yummy breakfast. True Disney magic! :thumbsup2

I think all of your ADRs sound really good. :goodvibes

[Disneyfan71]

March 16th is our ADR date!!! But I've already got a list of where we want to eat!!! :)

[IluvXU]

Oh gosh! I hope that the weather is perfect from here on out! Didn't you leave really soon after school last year?

Are you going to split up the drive or drive straight through?

Yes... we left they day after my workday. But since we booked in March it was no biggie, I knew we were not near close to five snow days, in 10 years I have never had more than five snow days in a year.

We are going to split the drive for sure on the way down... most of the driving day 1. On the way back we might try to drive all in one.

Yum, Yum, and Yum!

We LOVE Crystal Palace. It is a tradition for us to eat breakfast there on our first MK day. We love walking in to an empty park. The breakfast food is so yummy too. :)

We have never eaten at the Castle, but a friend just got back last week and she said it was their favorite meal.

LeCellier is soooo good! I can taste that pretzle bread and mushroom filet. DH has said we will not be going back until our kids are older because DD doesn't do well in soft lighting. It makes her more hyper if that is possible!

I was going to suggest O'Hana or Cape May for a non-park day. I haven't been to either, but really want to go after reading a few trip reports lately. I don't think you could go wrong with either. Although the girls would probably have fun at Whispering Canyon....

What about Wolfgang Puck's at DTD? We ate there for lunch our first trip and it remains one of our favorite meals.

I hope to do the Crystal Palace our first MK day. I think it would be a super fun way to start our day. I was shocked how well we enjoyed the castle, both the atmosphere and the food were great. Plus the princesses!

LeCellier is a bit of a scare with the kids. The girls are good eating out, so we will see what Luke is like. I figure we can let my parents go and do something else if we have to. However it is yummy and I would like to do it!

I would love to try OHana's breakfast not sure if it will fit in this trip. Cape May is a place we have gone for dinner and like, never made it to breakfast though. I would love for my parent's to see the Wilderness Lodge too, I also love Wolfgang Puck Express... so I bet I would like the restaurant. I better check out that menu and add it to the growing list!

Your ADR plans sounds great! We are planning very similar ADR's. We love the character meals, I have great memories of our last trip.


My girls love the character meals... so we try to get a lot in! Plus buffets allow for everyone to get what they want!

You're ADR's look great! We're looking forward to CRT and LeCellier, we've never eaten at those two!

We are so looking forward to returning to both!

Good choices for ADR'S!:thumbsup2 We might be trying CRT this year too...my boys have vowed to let their mommy try a princess meal:thumbsup2 Sorry about the snow you have had! We have had NONE:sad2: We have no days built in though so it is probably a good thing:thumbsup2 LOVE the old pictures of the girls, they are so precious:goodvibes

I think your boys should allow their princess to dine with the princesses! It is just an experience to eat in the castle and the kid's dessert was super cute and yummy! As for the snow... I am sick of it, I am so glad to see pavement finally. It was crazy looking through my photobucket of how they have changed!

Good choices on the ADRs! Hannah and Emily are so cute in all your photos! I am hoping for an early morning ADR at CP, too!

Thanks Jackie! I wish my call window was soon.. but I need the park hours out first!

My ideas for your last TS---keeping it outside a park of course:

Either O'hana, Kona Cafe, or Grand Floridian Cafe. All three are good in my opinion!!! Love the ones you have so far---making me salivate as we speak!

Kona is a distinct possiblity. My mom thought O"Hanas sounded fun, but DH really does not want to go there this trip. Tell me more about the Grand Floridian Cafe... that would be super close to MK and easy to get to! I also thought about Park Fare with the Cinderella and Gang....

Glad the extra days are not going to affect your trip. The ADR"S look great! Now, I am questioning CRTvs Akherus. Hmmm, what to do.....

Which meal are you doing at Akherus? I have done breakfast there two times. We liked it and actually saw more characters. For one credit it is great especially since the picture is included. My parents ate there with us before so I wanted to go somewhere else for the princesses, plus Hannah really loved eating in the castle.


ADR's all sound yummy. We've done Ohana for breakfast and loved it. We also love Whispering Canyon - great food and fun atmosphere.


I really want to fit OHana's breakfast in.. but I am not sure I can! I always hear great things and loved your pics! I love the skillet at Whispering Canyon and know the girls would like to visit there again... I am afraid I will want to pack my bags and stay there though!

Getting into Magic Kingdom before opening and then having breakfast with Pooh is the best. It's so much fun to see the park that empty, plus a yummy breakfast. True Disney magic! :thumbsup2

I think all of your ADRs sound really good. :goodvibes

I think having three days to make the CP ADR on will help me get my time. I just want CRT on another day... no way I need the buffet and a big lunch that quickly afterwards.

March 16th is our ADR date!!! But I've already got a list of where we want to eat!!! :)

The list is half the fun... I plan to have some backup ideas too!

[Charleston Princess]

Thanks Jackie! I wish my call window was soon.. but I need the park hours out first!

May hours just came out, so it is looking good for the first of March for us! I hope so at any rate -- I would like those eight days to figure out everything before I call! :thumbsup2

[bertegirl]

Sorry I have been reading all your threads..do you by chance have a must pack list anywhere? I am so afraid with this being our 1st trip with 2 little ones we may forget something! :crazy2:

[MegansMom]

We did the Grand Floridian Cafe last trip---the food was WONDERFUL!!! Very pretty atmosphere---everything was just so enjoyable, and hardly crowded. I have also done the 1900 Park Fare dinner with Cindy's Gang, and that is SO MUCH FUN!!! The Stepmother and Stepsisters are hilarious!!! The food is really good there too! You can't go wrong with either one---at the GF (SO AMAZING) and right on the monorail!

[IluvXU]

May hours just came out, so it is looking good for the first of March for us! I hope so at any rate -- I would like those eight days to figure out everything before I call! :thumbsup2


I know I want them to be out by March 1st. I also need TGM to get his stuff done too... so we will see. I want to see Fantasmic, and if it is not every night yikes!

Sorry I have been reading all your threads..do you by chance have a must pack list anywhere? I am so afraid with this being our 1st trip with 2 little ones we may forget something! :crazy2:

I will get it tonight... tomorrow?

We did the Grand Floridian Cafe last trip---the food was WONDERFUL!!! Very pretty atmosphere---everything was just so enjoyable, and hardly crowded. I have also done the 1900 Park Fare dinner with Cindy's Gang, and that is SO MUCH FUN!!! The Stepmother and Stepsisters are hilarious!!! The food is really good there too! You can't go wrong with either one---at the GF (SO AMAZING) and right on the monorail!

Both look good.. I need to read up. I am also really interested in the Boardwalk area . Those restaurants would work if we end up at MGM or EPCOT the extra day!

[ampc3]

Hi there Laura,, ( and Jen and Jackie)

Just found your PTR and was so excited to see you are going back again this summer! Can't wait to read all about it with Luke (soo cute by the way) Also was excited to see Jen is going back in the fall.. I am hoping to go back in 2010 for my 40th but the Twins will just be a year, and I am in the same boat as you were about being older and able to walk etc... Our rule was almost 4... so we'll see (but I have no problems I don't think leaving them at home with family) I still really want to take Emma for her 6th bday in sep for the day with the free ticket.

Anyway enjoyed catching up and looking forward to the trip! I vote for Kona Cafe or Grand Floridian (I remember Jen's report on that from her last trip) and we LOVED the food at Kona...

Annette

[IluvXU]

Hi there Laura,, ( and Jen and Jackie)

Just found your PTR and was so excited to see you are going back again this summer! Can't wait to read all about it with Luke (soo cute by the way) Also was excited to see Jen is going back in the fall.. I am hoping to go back in 2010 for my 40th but the Twins will just be a year, and I am in the same boat as you were about being older and able to walk etc... Our rule was almost 4... so we'll see (but I have no problems I don't think leaving them at home with family) I still really want to take Emma for her 6th bday in sep for the day with the free ticket.


Anyway enjoyed catching up and looking forward to the trip! I vote for Kona Cafe or Grand Floridian (I remember Jen's report on that from her last trip) and we LOVED the food at Kona...

Annette


How are you? I hope you are feeling better. Glad you have a little time to DIS, I am still a little scared at the idea of taking him (a rough night again last night and no naps of an length today) but he has a while to get in shape. I am trying to figure out if we are getting another tooth or just still fighting off some bug. He is a cutie though... smiles all the time!

[Charleston Princess]

Hi there Laura,, ( and Jen and Jackie)

Just found your PTR and was so excited to see you are going back again this summer! Can't wait to read all about it with Luke (soo cute by the way) Also was excited to see Jen is going back in the fall.. I am hoping to go back in 2010 for my 40th but the Twins will just be a year, and I am in the same boat as you were about being older and able to walk etc... Our rule was almost 4... so we'll see (but I have no problems I don't think leaving them at home with family) I still really want to take Emma for her 6th bday in sep for the day with the free ticket.

Anyway enjoyed catching up and looking forward to the trip! I vote for Kona Cafe or Grand Floridian (I remember Jen's report on that from her last trip) and we LOVED the food at Kona...

Annette

Hi, Annette!!! :wave2:

[MegansMom]

Hi there Laura,, ( and Jen and Jackie)

Just found your PTR and was so excited to see you are going back again this summer! Can't wait to read all about it with Luke (soo cute by the way) Also was excited to see Jen is going back in the fall.. I am hoping to go back in 2010 for my 40th but the Twins will just be a year, and I am in the same boat as you were about being older and able to walk etc... Our rule was almost 4... so we'll see (but I have no problems I don't think leaving them at home with family) I still really want to take Emma for her 6th bday in sep for the day with the free ticket.

Anyway enjoyed catching up and looking forward to the trip! I vote for Kona Cafe or Grand Floridian (I remember Jen's report on that from her last trip) and we LOVED the food at Kona...

Annette

Hey Annette!!! So glad you hopped on here!!! So glad to hear that you are doing good so far!!! Just remember to try to take it easy when you can!!! ;)

[FairyGodmotherJen]

Have you thought about the Alice in Wonderland breakfast at 1900 Park Faire? We're probably going to end up at the dinner there in 2010 (get our princess fix in and only use one credit, plus I do hear that the Tremains are hysterical), but I've read some trip reports where the Mad Hatter and some of the other characters are great, too.

I envy you a bit - it's kind of too early for us to be nailing down ADRs. But, my SIL and I are going to do a LITTLE :rolleyes: pre-planning when we're all together for our President's Day weekend getaway (which has been shortened due to snow make-up days now, but oh, well. We got hit again today, but so far just a delay again tomorrow. Did you guys get it?

[IluvXU]

Well it is snowing again in the great state of Ohio. I have never seen so much in in two weeks. It started after lunch, once I was at school and by the time my students were to be dismissed at 4 it was a white mess. There were no buses at 4, and at 4:30 I would guess I had over half my class still there. At 5 I still had three students, but they were then gathering the kids in the gym so that once the buses arrived they could quickly get them home. While it took me almost an hour longer than normal I felt lucky because the first two miles were over a half an hour... then I moved okay. We at this point have a delay tomorrow- here is hoping. Plus I have to get Emily to the Dr at 9:30 and if we have to get moving I hope Hannah has preschool, she is on a delay already too!

[Disneyfan71]

Hey there!!! We're getting snow here in NC too!!! We're not supposed to get much but it's nice to see.

As far as our ADR's go...I'm going to be compiling a list SOON...probably in the next few days. It's just SOOO long before we go.

[DreaGirl]

Are you still on a delay or is school cancelled?

This winter has sucked so bad! I think they said in this area we have already had double the snow for the entire season!

[ampc3]

I can't believe all the weather you all are having up there! My family is in Chicago and I think my nephew has only missed school once thus far for weather... It is super cooolllldddd here in ATL today! (for us anyway)

Hope all these weather problems don't play into your trip in making it all up!

I'm doing ok... feeling really BIG for me.... can't remember if I told you that they are both boys! Emma keeps hoping that one will turn out to be a girl...
stay warm and safe!

[IluvXU]

Have you thought about the Alice in Wonderland breakfast at 1900 Park Faire? We're probably going to end up at the dinner there in 2010 (get our princess fix in and only use one credit, plus I do hear that the Tremains are hysterical), but I've read some trip reports where the Mad Hatter and some of the other characters are great, too.

I envy you a bit - it's kind of too early for us to be nailing down ADRs. But, my SIL and I are going to do a LITTLE :rolleyes: pre-planning when we're all together for our President's Day weekend getaway (which has been shortened due to snow make-up days now, but oh, well. We got hit again today, but so far just a delay again tomorrow. Did you guys get it?

Yes another snow day... I am so sick of it. I would like to do that breakfast and that dinner keeps creeping back on the list. We will see

Hey there!!! We're getting snow here in NC too!!! We're not supposed to get much but it's nice to see.

As far as our ADR's go...I'm going to be compiling a list SOON...probably in the next few days. It's just SOOO long before we go.

I never want to see snow again!

Are you still on a delay or is school cancelled?

This winter has sucked so bad! I think they said in this area we have already had double the snow for the entire season!

Cancelled... and by the time Emily went to the Dr. at 9:30 it was fine... but probably at 7 it was still ugly. Plus my district seemingly got more snow than some areas.

I can't believe all the weather you all are having up there! My family is in Chicago and I think my nephew has only missed school once thus far for weather... It is super cooolllldddd here in ATL today! (for us anyway)

Hope all these weather problems don't play into your trip in making it all up!

I'm doing ok... feeling really BIG for me.... can't remember if I told you that they are both boys! Emma keeps hoping that one will turn out to be a girl...
stay warm and safe!


Two boys... how sweet! Names decided yet?

[Disneyfan71]

I think the snow won't be bothering us anymore !!! At least I hope so.

[dddisrunner]

Hi Laura! I feel your frustration with the snow too but in a different way! We keep getting "dustings" and the kids get delayed openings and then by the time they come home the snow is all melted:sad2: They are DYING to have 1 good storm so we could play...I am sure you would gladly send us yours right!:thumbsup2

[DreaGirl]

Oh man! I was hoping it would just be a delay for you! As my Grandma would say, "I'm so sick of snow I could just spit!". :)

[IluvXU]

I think the snow won't be bothering us anymore !!! At least I hope so.

The outlook here is for 50 plus tomorrow.... melt away snow!

Hi Laura! I feel your frustration with the snow too but in a different way! We keep getting "dustings" and the kids get delayed openings and then by the time they come home the snow is all melted:sad2: They are DYING to have 1 good storm so we could play...I am sure you would gladly send us yours right!:thumbsup2

Just send them here. We are covered in it. To be honest only Hannah has been out in it, and nobody went out the past two days. It has been so cold too!

Oh man! I was hoping it would just be a delay for you! As my Grandma would say, "I'm so sick of snow I could just spit!". :)

My feelings exactly!

[cjackearl]

Your ADR choices look great! We're gunning for CM, CP and Le Celier also. Reading your pre-trippie is making me snow day nervous. The possibility of having to add days to the end of the school year never even entered my mind, and our reservation begins the Monday after school gets out.:sad2: We've only had two snow days, so we're ok as of now and my hubby who's a teacher reminded me that the last time we went over, several years ago, the district added time to each day to make up the hours, instead of adding an additional day. I'll cross my fingers for both of us!

[Me&3]

Hi I am so excited I found your PTR:cool1: . The kids look so cute Luke is adorable. I need to catch up I am only on page six. But count me in for the rest of the time:goodvibes .

[IluvXU]

Your ADR choices look great! We're gunning for CM, CP and Le Celier also. Reading your pre-trippie is making me snow day nervous. The possibility of having to add days to the end of the school year never even entered my mind, and our reservation begins the Monday after school gets out.:sad2: We've only had two snow days, so we're ok as of now and my hubby who's a teacher reminded me that the last time we went over, several years ago, the district added time to each day to make up the hours, instead of adding an additional day. I'll cross my fingers for both of us!


I dread the thought of more snow... one more day and we would have to make some changes... scary!

Hi I am so excited I found your PTR:cool1: . The kids look so cute Luke is adorable. I need to catch up I am only on page six. But count me in for the rest of the time:goodvibes .

Thanks for joining!

[IluvXU]

So I have a nasty sinus infection... not much fun here! I am just waiting for park hours, no more snow days and well feeling better before we do some more planning! Have a great weekend!

[KathyRN137]

So I have a nasty sinus infection... not much fun here! I am just waiting for park hours, no more snow days and well feeling better before we do some more planning! Have a great weekend!

Blech! I just got over one...finally broke down and got antibiotics (which I hate) after two weeks of headaches!

Feel better soon, Laura! :flower3:

(Don't you think we should get a chicken soup smilie??)

Kathy

[wlwilliams9]

Yuck! Get some rest and feel better soon! :sick:

[MeMom]

All of you northern folks are making me appreciate our Tennessee weather more and more. We can go from 0 to 60 in two days, so it can be a little erratic, but I am glad we don't have weeks on end of now and ice. I'd like to get our five built-in snow days every year, but past that we'd have to make anything up. After what I've seen so many of you guys have to live with this winter, I am happy for our dustings of snow and the daily scraping of ice of the car windows.

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, I hope you feel better soon, Laura!!! :grouphug:

[DreaGirl]

UGH! Those are the worst. I hope you start feeling better soon. Can you take anything for it (didn't know if you are breastfeeding or not)?

We are supposed to warm up to the low 40's today. We'll see. I won't hold my breath! :)

[Happy Elf]

Hope you feel better soon!

I understand about the snow days! We've missed 5 days now, I'm really, really, really hoping we are done with snow! I'm ready for SPRING!!!

[lmillercrew]

I hope you're feeling better. :flower3: I hate being sick, especially when you have little oneds to take care of. It's like you don't have time to be sick!
I'm perplexed at what ADR's to make too. I looked at the menus today, and there are only a couple of restaraunts that I think my entire family will like. My DD9 is VERY picky, so if we go someplace that she doesn't like, we'll end up having to go someplace else. I'm thinking CP for breakfast and Mama Melrose for lunch one day. We are there the same time that you are, so I'm excited to get the park hours!

[IluvXU]

Blech! I just got over one...finally broke down and got antibiotics (which I hate) after two weeks of headaches!

Feel better soon, Laura! :flower3:

(Don't you think we should get a chicken soup smilie??)

Kathy

I think Monday am, after Emily's surgery I will be getting myself some new drugs of choice. The Dr. said to call. I am better than Thursday night, but not much or enough to function with three kids.

Yuck! Get some rest and feel better soon! :sick:

I tried to go to bed... but I need the medicine to take the edge off.. and kick in soon!

All of you northern folks are making me appreciate our Tennessee weather more and more. We can go from 0 to 60 in two days, so it can be a little erratic, but I am glad we don't have weeks on end of now and ice. I'd like to get our five built-in snow days every year, but past that we'd have to make anything up. After what I've seen so many of you guys have to live with this winter, I am happy for our dustings of snow and the daily scraping of ice of the car windows.

It was much warmer today here... and the snow really melted away. I am happy for a snow day here and there.. not all five in such a short period of time. Plus I feel testing pressure..... we test in late April (mind you we have over a month after testing to teach???)

Oh, I hope you feel better soon, Laura!!! :grouphug:

Me too! I have zero energy or patience. Plus I had stuff I needed to do ... and that is not happening!

UGH! Those are the worst. I hope you start feeling better soon. Can you take anything for it (didn't know if you are breastfeeding or not)?

We are supposed to warm up to the low 40's today. We'll see. I won't hold my breath! :)

I can take some meds... but I am afraid come Monday if I am not better I will be limited due to breastfeeding...hope you got the warmer weather too!

Hope you feel better soon!

I understand about the snow days! We've missed 5 days now, I'm really, really, really hoping we are done with snow! I'm ready for SPRING!!!

Thanks! I am ready for spring too!

I hope you're feeling better. :flower3: I hate being sick, especially when you have little oneds to take care of. It's like you don't have time to be sick!
I'm perplexed at what ADR's to make too. I looked at the menus today, and there are only a couple of restaraunts that I think my entire family will like. My DD9 is VERY picky, so if we go someplace that she doesn't like, we'll end up having to go someplace else. I'm thinking CP for breakfast and Mama Melrose for lunch one day. We are there the same time that you are, so I'm excited to get the park hours!

DH was helpful today... and hopefully tomorrow too!

[wigdoutdismom]

Laura, I noticed your comment on testing, what grade do you teach? We take reading, math and science.....4th grade. So much to do, lots of test prep..... and our principal is predicting that we won't make AYP this year! Oh well, can't stop trying.
It's great to be planning a trip to take the edge off, isn't it?

[MeMom]

It was much warmer today here... and the snow really melted away. I am happy for a snow day here and there.. not all five in such a short period of time. Plus I feel testing pressure..... we test in late April (mind you we have over a month after testing to teach???)



We start testing in late April, right after Jill's baby is due. I'm hoping she goes a little early or at least right on time. I've already told them I'll be out for a few days. I might miss a crucial time, but I've spent the entire year drilling this stuff into their heads, so hopefully it won't make a difference if I am there or not. Unless she goes way late, and I doubt the doctor would allow that, then I'll be back for the actual testing.


Laura, I noticed your comment on testing, what grade do you teach? We take reading, math and science.....4th grade. So much to do, lots of test prep..... and our principal is predicting that we won't make AYP this year! Oh well, can't stop trying.
It's great to be planning a trip to take the edge off, isn't it?

Nashville 3rd graders do Reading, Math, Science, and Social Studies. We have a high 'free lunch' population. I think we're at 93% this year. We have been making AYP, by some miracle. Third grade is the first year our kids test, and there's so much pressure. I've been asking to move down to a non-TCAP grade for two years, but so far no luck. I'm asking again this year. I'm ready for a break from all the stress!!!

[FairyGodmotherJen]

Laura, I noticed your comment on testing, what grade do you teach? We take reading, math and science.....4th grade. So much to do, lots of test prep..... and our principal is predicting that we won't make AYP this year! Oh well, can't stop trying.
It's great to be planning a trip to take the edge off, isn't it?

Here in IN, we do reading/language arts, math and science in 4th grade, too. And yes, I sat through a meeting on Wednesday morning with all kinds of tips to pass on to the kids to bump their writing scores up...the pressure is on big time. It's our first year taking it in the spring, so this is a switch for us. The kids also took it in the fall one last time (while I was on leave - I really hoped I'd skip the ISTEP this year).

Yuck - another snow day!!! And sick to boot. Well, I hope you're still thawing as well as we are here, and that you really start feeling better. Being sick as a mom really stinks!! :scared:

[MegansMom]

Hey Laura---I hope you are feeling somewhat better and that Little Miss Em's surgery goes well today!!! I'll be thinking of her and you all---Megan has had to be put under several times, and it just kills me each time!!! So glad that the warmer weather is here---what are the odds that it will just hang out and stay like this into Spring and Summer?!?!?!?!?! Yeah............didn't think so either, but hey, we can hope!!!!

[IluvXU]

Today went well. Emily was a trooper... very brave. But the idea of keeping ice on her face, covering her eyes for 20 on and 10 off is pretty hard! No time to DIS... until we recover

[Charleston Princess]

Big hugs for you and Emily, Laura!!! :hug:

[dddisrunner]

Hope you and Emily get some much needed rest!:thumbsup2 Prayers coming your way for a speedy recovery to both of you!:goodvibes

[wlwilliams9]

:hug: Hugs for Emily!! I'm happy everything went well. Hoping for a speedy recovery!

[Me&3]

:hug: for Emily:flower3: :goodvibes

[DreaGirl]

Glad everything went well!! Hugs to you and Emily.

[punkin413]

i haven't been reading along with the chatter - what kind of surgery did emily have? i read a few pages back that you had a sinus infection. glad to hear you're feeling better! :hug: whatever kind of surgery it was, i'm glad it's over and that she did well! :goodvibes sorry i'm behind - i usually don't read until i see someone has updated. it's a bad habit! :guilty:

[wigdoutdismom]

Wishing Em a speeeeedy recovery! :tinker:

[an_evans]

Hope all is well and you are back on the trip planning train soon!

[Lady Lallie]

Glad everything went well!! Wishes for a speedy recovery!! :flower3:

[MegansMom]

Glad to hear everything went well---I will hope for a VERY speedy recovery for both of you!!!!

[MeMom]

Glad you checked in to let us know it went well. Take care of yourselves. We're thinking of you.

[IluvXU]

Laura, I noticed your comment on testing, what grade do you teach? We take reading, math and science.....4th grade. So much to do, lots of test prep..... and our principal is predicting that we won't make AYP this year! Oh well, can't stop trying.
It's great to be planning a trip to take the edge off, isn't it?


I teach third grade, half day. I am responsible for reading and writing. The third grade takes reading achievement tests both in the fall and spring. I have a very split class... good high students and low. There is no middle as seen on a set of papers from earlier that I graded.

We start testing in late April, right after Jill's baby is due. I'm hoping she goes a little early or at least right on time. I've already told them I'll be out for a few days. I might miss a crucial time, but I've spent the entire year drilling this stuff into their heads, so hopefully it won't make a difference if I am there or not. Unless she goes way late, and I doubt the doctor would allow that, then I'll be back for the actual testing.

Nashville 3rd graders do Reading, Math, Science, and Social Studies. We have a high 'free lunch' population. I think we're at 93% this year. We have been making AYP, by some miracle. Third grade is the first year our kids test, and there's so much pressure. I've been asking to move down to a non-TCAP grade for two years, but so far no luck. I'm asking again this year. I'm ready for a break from all the stress!!!


Here is hoping that the baby arrives and testing goes well. I totally agree I feel huge pressure since third grade is the first year for testing. AYP TCAP---- yuck!

Hey Laura---I hope you are feeling somewhat better and that Little Miss Em's surgery goes well today!!! I'll be thinking of her and you all---Megan has had to be put under several times, and it just kills me each time!!! So glad that the warmer weather is here---what are the odds that it will just hang out and stay like this into Spring and Summer?!?!?!?!?! Yeah............didn't think so either, but hey, we can hope!!!!


I just hope the wind tomorrow is not too terrible. It was hard to watch her go back and know she was going under. I hope she won't this whole thing!

Here in IN, we do reading/language arts, math and science in 4th grade, too. And yes, I sat through a meeting on Wednesday morning with all kinds of tips to pass on to the kids to bump their writing scores up...the pressure is on big time. It's our first year taking it in the spring, so this is a switch for us. The kids also took it in the fall one last time (while I was on leave - I really hoped I'd skip the ISTEP this year).

Yuck - another snow day!!! And sick to boot. Well, I hope you're still thawing as well as we are here, and that you really start feeling better. Being sick as a mom really stinks!! :scared:

I felt worse again today... I actually slept almost two hours after dinner which I never do. Calling the Dr tomorrow.

Big hugs for you and Emily, Laura!!! :hug:

Thanks Jackie!

Hope you and Emily get some much needed rest!:thumbsup2 Prayers coming your way for a speedy recovery to both of you!:goodvibes


Today was a better less stressful day!

:hug: Hugs for Emily!! I'm happy everything went well. Hoping for a speedy recovery!

Thanks!

:hug: for Emily:flower3: :goodvibes
Thanks!


Glad everything went well!! Hugs to you and Emily.

It was a better day... we will see what tomorrow brings!

i haven't been reading along with the chatter - what kind of surgery did emily have? i read a few pages back that you had a sinus infection. glad to hear you're feeling better! :hug: whatever kind of surgery it was, i'm glad it's over and that she did well! :goodvibes sorry i'm behind - i usually don't read until i see someone has updated. it's a bad habit! :guilty:

I am behind too!


Wishing Em a speeeeedy recovery! :tinker:

She almost bounced back too much... she needs to rest, which is not something two year olds do!

Hope all is well and you are back on the trip planning train soon!

June hours will be out before I know it!

Glad everything went well!! Wishes for a speedy recovery!! :flower3:

Thanks!

Glad to hear everything went well---I will hope for a VERY speedy recovery for both of you!!!!

Thanks Jen!

Glad you checked in to let us know it went well. Take care of yourselves. We're thinking of you.

Thanks MeMom!

[IluvXU]

Between Facebook and this I am realizing that I never explained Emily's surgery here. She went in to have her tear ducts unclogged. When she gets a cold she gets really matty gunk filled eyes. This has been noticable the past year or so, mainly winter time, but she also had stray tears a lot down her cheek. After the first of the year she saw a specialist and he confirmed they were blocked. So they went in and opened them... inserting a stent to keep them open for 6 months. Not much fun for her but in the long term it will be so much better. It might be six months until we see that this indeed is fixed though.

Today was much better. The problem is you cannot not watch her. She wants to blow her nose (not able to do it yet) wipe her eyes (must be clean to do) or get her nose junk cleaned out (we finally today found out we can saline it). We also want to make sure she rests... because she needs to still, and no two year old likes to do that. Hopefully tomorrow is even better! Thanks for the concern!

As for me feeling better.... I was exhausted today I guess since we were up at 5 yesterday after a terrible night of sleep worrying about the procedure and stuff. Then Emily was up past 11, we iced and cared for her as I was up with Luke, and then back to school this PM. After dinner I even took a nap (2 hours--- that never happens!)... but am calling the DR. to get something prescription strength tomorrow I hope!

[KathyRN137]

:hug: :hug: and :love1: to Emily!!!

Kathy

[DreaGirl]

Oh Laura, I cannot even imagine keeping a 2 year old still, hands off, and resting!!

I'm sorry you are still feeling bad. :( Hopefully the Dr. will give you something over the phone.

[MegansMom]

Hang in there kiddo---it is so hard to take care of it all when you need taking care of yourself!!! I hope you all feel much better SOON!

I have a quick question for you: I have started to consider trying to take Megs to a CRT lunch this year---it will be our first. We usually just schedule a 1900 Park Fare dinner to see Cindy, but was thinking it might be fun to see lots of princesses at the CRT luncheon---or breakfast. I know you have gone in the past, so I was wondering if you had an opinion on:
---which is better.....breakfast or lunch?
---what time of the day do you tend to shoot for?
---who have you seen there in the past?
---have you ever had any problems really getting a ressie for CRT? I know they make it sound downright impossible, so I was wondering if I really need to freak out and panic about getting an ADR here----do I need to follow the UG's instructions verbatim?

Any other comments or advice you think is appropriate, please let me know!!! TIA for your help! Jen

[IluvXU]

:hug: :hug: and :love1: to Emily!!!

Kathy

Thanks Kathy... I got an antibiotic today, so hopefully things will get better.

Oh Laura, I cannot even imagine keeping a 2 year old still, hands off, and resting!!

I'm sorry you are still feeling bad. :( Hopefully the Dr. will give you something over the phone.

She is back to being a busy little girl... hard to keep her down and out!

Hang in there kiddo---it is so hard to take care of it all when you need taking care of yourself!!! I hope you all feel much better SOON!

I have a quick question for you: I have started to consider trying to take Megs to a CRT lunch this year---it will be our first. We usually just schedule a 1900 Park Fare dinner to see Cindy, but was thinking it might be fun to see lots of princesses at the CRT luncheon---or breakfast. I know you have gone in the past, so I was wondering if you had an opinion on:
---which is better.....breakfast or lunch?
---what time of the day do you tend to shoot for?
---who have you seen there in the past?
---have you ever had any problems really getting a ressie for CRT? I know they make it sound downright impossible, so I was wondering if I really need to freak out and panic about getting an ADR here----do I need to follow the UG's instructions verbatim?

Any other comments or advice you think is appropriate, please let me know!!! TIA for your help! Jen

Jen, I have only done CRT at lunch. We loved it last year... it was a cool calm resting place to dine away from the heat. We ate a late lunch, around 1, which I made the ADRs in like March, so way late...I think the hardest are the before the park opens breakfast ones. We saw Jasmine, Snow White, Aurora and Belle in the dining room and Cinderella downstairs. I thought the "show/story" was cute and the dessert for the princess: was darling too. It was a great break, and we in fact stayed the rest of the day because we left lunch rested.

Hope this helps. I plan to go for a lunch ADR this year!

[punkin413]

poor little em! i can't imagine how you must feel seeing her not happy and trying to keep her still, etc. i broke my arm when i was 4 and had to have surgery on it and my mom has told me how difficult that was for her, so i'm sure you're going through something similar. :hug: take care of yourself too!

[MegansMom]

Thanks for your help on that Laura!!! That is what I was thinking of doing....a late lunch. We love our morning Fantasyland time too much to cut into that!!! I thought it would be a great break from the heat, and a nice way to chill out without having to go back to the hotel. I thought it would also give Megs a nice way to see the princesses this year because I'm not sure if we are going to do Akershus again or not. I think I may go back and read about your meal there from last year!!! Thanks hon, hope everyone is doing well today!!! I had to take Megs to the doctor---she came down with STREP!!! This is her first case of it ever, and the first time in her entire life (outside of IV antibiotics at the NICU) that she has ever taken any antibiotics....not bad for a 2lb. preemie 5 years later!!! BUT, I do feel bad for her---strep is never any fun!!! Hope you all survived those storms last night---a transformer blew near us, so we were out of power until 7am!!! Is there somewhere on this planet that never gets snowstorms, thunderstorms, or windstorms? Because I think I need to move there!!!! ;o)

[IluvXU]

Thanks for your help on that Laura!!! That is what I was thinking of doing....a late lunch. We love our morning Fantasyland time too much to cut into that!!! I thought it would be a great break from the heat, and a nice way to chill out without having to go back to the hotel. I thought it would also give Megs a nice way to see the princesses this year because I'm not sure if we are going to do Akershus again or not. I think I may go back and read about your meal there from last year!!! Thanks hon, hope everyone is doing well today!!! I had to take Megs to the doctor---she came down with STREP!!! This is her first case of it ever, and the first time in her entire life (outside of IV antibiotics at the NICU) that she has ever taken any antibiotics....not bad for a 2lb. preemie 5 years later!!! BUT, I do feel bad for her---strep is never any fun!!! Hope you all survived those storms last night---a transformer blew near us, so we were out of power until 7am!!! Is there somewhere on this planet that never gets snowstorms, thunderstorms, or windstorms? Because I think I need to move there!!!! ;o)

Sorry about the strep. I hope it does not mess up preschool valentine party- I know Hannah has sorted hers 3 million times. :flower3: for Megan!

[IluvXU]

To hop or not?

Right away I said no to my parents, who have always had hoppers. Up until last trip we DH and I had also hopped. But I was fine with not doing it this trip, but now....

I cannot believe this, but I am really considering buying hoppers this trip. I finally have kids that would see Fantasmic, but I hate the new schedule and don't want to spend my HS day in a huge crowd. Also with seven days we probably would enjoy the chance to hop... we could hit HS, EPCOT and AK all a bit more than one day. I think this would be the best way for us to see what we want and not tour commando style. Plus if we wanted to split up with hoppers it might actually work. I sure want to see the AK parade, Fantasmic, and without a hopper I worry it won't happen. Any advice thoughts.

I sure want June hours out and TGM to get his days done.... come on March!

[ampc3]

HI there Laura... Hope everyone is feeling better..

We got hoppers last year and we only used them 2x all week.. however it was so nice to know we could hop if we wanted to... I think one of the reasons we didn't hop as much is b/c we discovered how many rides we could do in the PM when we saved our FP and child swaps through out the day to use at night.. which would only work if we were coming back to the same park... It is a hard decision, but it is nice to have that flexiablity especially if you are going to be on the DDP which I think you said you are...

[KathyRN137]

How funny, Ed and I were having the PH debate, too! ;)

We always get PHs, but this year I suggested the MYW Base tickets because I thought it would be a good way to save a little money. He didn't want to give up the flexibility. Then, I did the actual breakdown:


7 day MYW PH (no exp) X 4 = $1652.88
7 day MYW base (no exp) X 4 = $1439.88

Total savings = $213.00

In the grand scheme of things, I didn't think it was worth $213 to give up the flexibility of park hopping, so we're going to stick with the PHs.

Kathy

[Charleston Princess]

I am in the exact same predicament, Laura! Only I think I want hoppers to avoid Fantasmic and EMH. I am waiting though -- it is always something we can add at the very last minute -- even after we arrive down there.

I have my fingers crossed that June hours along with EMH and nighttime shows are released before March 8.

[MegansMom]

Sorry about the strep. I hope it does not mess up preschool valentine party- I know Hannah has sorted hers 3 million times. :flower3: for Megan!

She can not go to school today, so she is going to miss her party.....MUCH to Megan's detriment!!!!! Luckily, I carpool with a good friend of mine who has a son in her class, and she has graciously offered to pick up Megan's box and valentines and take them into the party for her, and then bring them back after school so she can enjoy them this weekend! She's the best!


To hop or not?

Right away I said no to my parents, who have always had hoppers. Up until last trip we DH and I had also hopped. But I was fine with not doing it this trip, but now....

I cannot believe this, but I am really considering buying hoppers this trip. I finally have kids that would see Fantasmic, but I hate the new schedule and don't want to spend my HS day in a huge crowd. Also with seven days we probably would enjoy the chance to hop... we could hit HS, EPCOT and AK all a bit more than one day. I think this would be the best way for us to see what we want and not tour commando style. Plus if we wanted to split up with hoppers it might actually work. I sure want to see the AK parade, Fantasmic, and without a hopper I worry it won't happen. Any advice thoughts.

I sure want June hours out and TGM to get his days done.... come on March!


We are dealing with the exact same issue---can't figure out whether or not they would be used by us!!! What is the new Fantasmic schedule? I heard they were limiting the shows.

I am in the exact same predicament, Laura! Only I think I want hoppers to avoid Fantasmic and EMH. I am waiting though -- it is always something we can add at the very last minute -- even after we arrive down there.

I have my fingers crossed that June hours along with EMH and nighttime shows are released before March 8.

This is SUCH a hard decision.....I know in the grand scheme of things it isn't much, but it feels like a lot if we don't use it!

[DreaGirl]

This is always a big debate for us.

Our first trip, we didn't have hoppers and we were fine. Second trip, had the hoppers, loved it. We loved being able to pick and choose things we wanted to see and not spend a whole day at a park (like MGM).

This last trip we didn't have hoppers and we hated it! We are def. a hopper family now!

[IluvXU]

HI there Laura... Hope everyone is feeling better..

We got hoppers last year and we only used them 2x all week.. however it was so nice to know we could hop if we wanted to... I think one of the reasons we didn't hop as much is b/c we discovered how many rides we could do in the PM when we saved our FP and child swaps through out the day to use at night.. which would only work if we were coming back to the same park... It is a hard decision, but it is nice to have that flexiablity especially if you are going to be on the DDP which I think you said you are...

I doubt we would hop MK days... but we could keep the childswap passes for nights we did not have FPs to use...

How funny, Ed and I were having the PH debate, too! ;)

We always get PHs, but this year I suggested the MYW Base tickets because I thought it would be a good way to save a little money. He didn't want to give up the flexibility. Then, I did the actual breakdown:


7 day MYW PH (no exp) X 4 = $1652.88
7 day MYW base (no exp) X 4 = $1439.88

Total savings = $213.00

In the grand scheme of things, I didn't think it was worth $213 to give up the flexibility of park hopping, so we're going to stick with the PHs.

Kathy

Leaning that way... it is not that much, especially for seven days

I am in the exact same predicament, Laura! Only I think I want hoppers to avoid Fantasmic and EMH. I am waiting though -- it is always something we can add at the very last minute -- even after we arrive down there.

I have my fingers crossed that June hours along with EMH and nighttime shows are released before March 8.

I need that info now!

She can not go to school today, so she is going to miss her party.....MUCH to Megan's detriment!!!!! Luckily, I carpool with a good friend of mine who has a son in her class, and she has graciously offered to pick up Megan's box and valentines and take them into the party for her, and then bring them back after school so she can enjoy them this weekend! She's the best!



We are dealing with the exact same issue---can't figure out whether or not they would be used by us!!! What is the new Fantasmic schedule? I heard they were limiting the shows.



This is SUCH a hard decision.....I know in the grand scheme of things it isn't much, but it feels like a lot if we don't use it!

My mom said today to do it, granted she is talking about 100 dollars to do it versus our 200 dollars. That also would allow for short trips with some of the gang.... like maybe a trip with just one kid, which would be fun!

This is always a big debate for us.

Our first trip, we didn't have hoppers and we were fine. Second trip, had the hoppers, loved it. We loved being able to pick and choose things we wanted to see and not spend a whole day at a park (like MGM).

This last trip we didn't have hoppers and we hated it! We are def. a hopper family now!

I think it is fun to have the chance to change it up!


So from all my friends... it is leaning to be a yes from your input and I lean to agree! DH just rolled his eyes when I mentioned this at dinner! I should have said just buy me APs and we would not have to worry - someday! (he has said we should some year do it- go in Aug, then a June trip (and fit a short one in between) I for sure am on board... but it is not in the budget now!

[dddisrunner]

Hi Laura! I hope you and Emily are doing well! I would definitely go for the hoppers! But like another poster said, you could wait till the last minute to add them especially, if you don't like Mike's days once he comes out with them! Happy Valentines Day!:goodvibes

[bertegirl]

Hey just wondering if you or anyone knows anything about stroller swaps. We really need a double stroller for May 9 to 16th, but they all look full. Was just wondering about buying one and doing a swap. Thanks for any advice!

[wigdoutdismom]

Laura, Happy Valentine's Day to you and your family! Hoping you all are feeling well and able to enjoy the day!

PSSSST: I'm attempting a pre-trip report and would be honored if you would join me......since you are partially to blame for my addiction to the dis..........:rolleyes1

[micandminforever]

I like the idea of a AP, think of it as an investment for your next Disney trip.

[wigdoutdismom]

Happy thought= annual passes for the whole family!

[IluvXU]

Hi Laura! I hope you and Emily are doing well! I would definitely go for the hoppers! But like another poster said, you could wait till the last minute to add them especially, if you don't like Mike's days once he comes out with them! Happy Valentines Day!:goodvibes

I am a bit worried about TGM-- his best days for the second half of May are not out- I think we will be getting them... but as you said we might wait until arrival! Hope you had fun this weekend on your mini-trip!

Hey just wondering if you or anyone knows anything about stroller swaps. We really need a double stroller for May 9 to 16th, but they all look full. Was just wondering about buying one and doing a swap. Thanks for any advice!
I fork out the $$ for the rental, and probably will need a stroller for Luke, but I am not worrying about that yet.

Laura, Happy Valentine's Day to you and your family! Hoping you all are feeling well and able to enjoy the day!

PSSSST: I'm attempting a pre-trip report and would be honored if you would join me......since you are partially to blame for my addiction to the dis..........:rolleyes1

I will be over!

I like the idea of a AP, think of it as an investment for your next Disney trip.

Someday!

Happy thought= annual passes for the whole family!

Someday!

[IluvXU]

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/101_2620.jpg

[Lady Lallie]

Oh my goodness!! They are all so adorable! :cutie:

Happy Valentine's Day!!

[punkin413]

LOOK AT LUKE'S FAT LITTLE FACE!!!! he's so precious! and of course the girls are, too. em's eye doesn't look like there's anything wrong. hope she's feeling better.

[micandminforever]

The girls and Luke are growing so fast. You have an adorable family.

[cjackearl]

I love that picture. How precious! I just love the baby no neck phase. Your kids are darling.

[wigdoutdismom]

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/101_2620.jpg

Now that is a cute Valentine's card......

[MeMom]

Three sweet little blessings!
I hope you all had a nice day.
Thanks for sharing that with us. :love: :love: :love:

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, your darlings are sooo precious!!! What a great photo of all three of them!

[DreaGirl]

Such a great picture! Luke is getting so big!!

[KathyRN137]

Thanks for sharing that pic....they are sweet little cuties! :goodvibes

Hope you are feeling better today,

Kathy

[Happy Elf]

Thanks for sharing the picture! They are 3 adorable kids! :lovestruc

[MegansMom]

Happy Valentine's Day to you too!!! They are just TOO cute!!!!

I was at our annual Fondue Date Night with my friends that we do each year on Valentine's Day----Doug's relative that I am friends with was there!!! It is SUCH a small world some time!!!! Hope your night was wonderful as well!

[lmillercrew]

I vote for hoppers too. We've done it both ways, and love the option of going to a different park if I want to.
Sorry to hear about Emily, but glad that she is doing well. Poor thing.

[IluvXU]

Oh my goodness!! They are all so adorable! :cutie:

Happy Valentine's Day!!
Thanks!

LOOK AT LUKE'S FAT LITTLE FACE!!!! he's so precious! and of course the girls are, too. em's eye doesn't look like there's anything wrong. hope she's feeling better.

She is back to her wild self!

The girls and Luke are growing so fast. You have an adorable family.
Thanks!

I love that picture. How precious! I just love the baby no neck phase. Your kids are darling.

I can't believe how close he is to sitting up...


Now that is a cute Valentine's card......

I have printed and sent some...

Three sweet little blessings!
I hope you all had a nice day.
Thanks for sharing that with us. :love: :love: :love:

Thanks!

Oh, your darlings are sooo precious!!! What a great photo of all three of them!

It took a while... and Luke is normally all smiles!

Such a great picture! Luke is getting so big!!

Thanks!

Thanks for sharing that pic....they are sweet little cuties! :goodvibes

Hope you are feeling better today,

Kathy

I am back to normal feeling finally!

Thanks for sharing the picture! They are 3 adorable kids! :lovestruc

Thanks


Happy Valentine's Day to you too!!! They are just TOO cute!!!!

I was at our annual Fondue Date Night with my friends that we do each year on Valentine's Day----Doug's relative that I am friends with Jennifer was there!!! It is SUCH a small world some time!!!! Hope your night was wonderful as well!
Thanks... what fun! Hope Megs is better!

I vote for hoppers too. We've done it both ways, and love the option of going to a different park if I want to.
Sorry to hear about Emily, but glad that she is doing well. Poor thing.

I am pretty sure we will hop!

[IluvXU]

So today we went to the mall with my mom- crazy to take three kids but oh well. We did make one WDW purchase

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z305/iluvxu/100_2663.jpg

The girls both loved them. I am not sold on size, but they were buy a pair, get the second half price. So I did it and can see if the sizes hold true, just keeping my receipt.

I also got Hannah some shorts... she has gotten taller and will need some to go with her WDW shirts.

[wigdoutdismom]

Very cute crocs:goodvibes I hope they end up fitting just fine!

[punkin413]

cute! princess:

[Me&3]

Three little angels:cloud9:

[Happy Elf]

Cute Crocs! DH pushed me right by the Croc cart at the mall on Saturday! :rotfl: I tried to tell him I needed a new pair and I would get a new pair for Hannah but he didn't buy it!

[bertegirl]

The crocs are so cute. I got Jenny a pair, but when they came she wouldn't wear them so....I ordered her a pair of Teva's. I've heard they are really comfortable. We shall see. She is such a flip flop girl. Too bad they don't come in Disney designs!

[wigdoutdismom]

The crocs are so cute. I got Jenny a pair, but when they came she wouldn't wear them so....I ordered her a pair of Teva's. I've heard they are really comfortable. We shall see. She is such a flip flop girl. Too bad they don't come in Disney designs!

She will love the Tevas, they have great arch support and are my favorites:goodvibes

[DreaGirl]

Is that Cindy on the Crocs? I may have to make a trip to our Disney Store. Those are really cute. I can't imagine taking 3 young kids to the mall, I go crazy with 2!!

[Charleston Princess]

Hannah and Emily are going to look adorable in their new Tink crocs!!!

[MeMom]

So today we went to the mall with my mom- crazy to take three kids but oh well.

Congratulations on your Disney purchases.

You're not crazy at all. I raised three kids alone, so they went everywhere I went all the time.

[IluvXU]

Very cute crocs:goodvibes I hope they end up fitting just fine!

Hannah's are a tad big, but she says fine. Emily's fit good now, we will see in a month or so, but her feet have slowed down some.

cute! princess:
I thought you would like the Tink!

Three little angels:cloud9:

Thanks!

Cute Crocs! DH pushed me right by the Croc cart at the mall on Saturday! :rotfl: I tried to tell him I needed a new pair and I would get a new pair for Hannah but he didn't buy it!

I want a new pair... but not sure what I will get. I love the ones I have worn to tour at WDW the past two years, so we will see. But I need new tennis shoes too, so?


The crocs are so cute. I got Jenny a pair, but when they came she wouldn't wear them so....I ordered her a pair of Teva's. I've heard they are really comfortable. We shall see. She is such a flip flop girl. Too bad they don't come in Disney designs!

My girls would wear crocs year around everyday, they try to wear them as soon as it is warm through the fall.



Is that Cindy on the Crocs? I may have to make a trip to our Disney Store. Those are really cute. I can't imagine taking 3 young kids to the mall, I go crazy with 2!!

Those ones are Tink... but they have Aurora and Cinderella on Crocs.com. It was not fun. I need a bit of me time sometime soon- I feel like I have not been out besides the grocery in a couple of months alone.


Hannah and Emily are going to look adorable in their new Tink crocs!!!

Hannah had hers on last night!

Congratulations on your Disney purchases.

You're not crazy at all. I raised three kids alone, so they went everywhere I went all the time.

I need a Kohls trip by myself. Soon I will get it!

[Lady Lallie]

Those crocs are adorable! Pretty good deal too. I love shopping for Disney!

[Hillary12.8.07]

I'm getting caught back up!

First of all, holy crap I can't believe how big the girls have gotten!! They are growing up so fast! And Luke is so cute, I want to grab his chubby little face! SUCH a cute little family!

I LOVE the Crocs, they will be so cute wearing them!

[MegansMom]

Love the Crocs---so adorable!!!! Did you get them at a Disney store or somewhere else? Megan would LOVE those beyond words!!! Today we were at our mall doing some summer snooping---I have Gymboree and Children's Place coupons burning holes in my pockets but they aren't good until March......so we wanted to snoop out what we liked first! She had $5 from a Valentine's card she wanted to spend, so she got a pair of Princess flip flops at the Disney store that were only $6.50. She is a happy camper, but can't WAIT until summer weather is here so she can wear them!

[cjackearl]

The crocs are so cute. I got Jenny a pair, but when they came she wouldn't wear them so....I ordered her a pair of Teva's. I've heard they are really comfortable. We shall see. She is such a flip flop girl. Too bad they don't come in Disney designs!

I LOVE my Tevas! I ordered both my girls Teva Mush flips because I love mine so much. I think we may take the Tevas and Crocs and alternate.

[dddisrunner]

Those crocs are SO cute! I have never seen the Tink ones before:goodvibes