A Halloween Adventure in Autism (11/12) New Thread Begun on TR Board!

[KathyRN137]

Hopefully it works out that they will keep each other entertained in that sort of teeage girl way, and it will be more fun for everyone. Have you made any progress on how much time you're going to let them be on their own?? What did you and Ed decide on that one??


Still hemming and hawing on that one... I can see letting them go on one ride together and then meeting up... then I change my mind and think, "no, we really should have at least one adult go with them...."

We'll most likely wind up playing it by ear! :listen:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

This thread is completely cracking me up!

:happytv:

popcorn::


Go ahead... laugh it up!!!

Eventually you'll turn into your mother, too!! :laughing:


Kathy

[maroo]

Go ahead... laugh it up!!!

Eventually you'll turn into your mother, too!! :laughing:


Kathy

Not a chance! :) Single and only have a dog... and she has not shown many teenage qualities yet! :) Although she can be quite the diva!

Of course...if you guys run across a special guy.......:rolleyes1 Then you can tease me YEARS from now! When you are all done paying for college. :scared1:

[Goofster57]

So big deal Kathy you have a teenager......:confused3

Do I need to bring the Wedding photos out again???????



:lmao::rotfl2:

[Dreamer & Wisher]

I love your picture of the tickets. We received two Donald Duck tickets, one Goofy and one Pluto. We have two children's tickets and two adult tickets. I have no idea whose are whose. Oh wait if I look under the cards it says what type it is. I have to choose from Donald or Pluto. The kids will have to fight over Goofy and Donald.
Well....

1) All the kids are "adults" according to Disney! :laughing:

2) Halloween is THE PREMIER night, so its the most expensive!

3) We pay full price... NO discounts available for DVC members or AP holders on 10/31!


I'm not complaining (much) that they decided (several days after tickets went on sale) to add that party on 11/1.... it did get me an extra night at Disney, after all.

But, I am a little bummed that now we're locked into the MOST expensive, MOST crowded party of the season and our tickets are non-transferable. :rolleyes:

Oh well, I'm looking on the bright side. If we happen to get rained out on 10/31, its not the last party anymore, so we could get rainchecks for the next night if needed. :thumbsup2


Kathy
:thumbsup2:thumbsup2 for rainchecks but I hope it doesn't rain that day.
Well, here I sit at the computer again, enjoying my favorite hobby!! :lmao:
What a great way to cap off a lovely Mother's Day!

Of course, I received my big present last week when we took a trip into the city to see The Little Mermaid, but today was fun, too. After a week of steady rain, the sun finally came out and we had a gorgeous day! :sunny:

After Mass we went out to breakfast at a nearby Pancake House and I had a yummy blueberry waffle! Since it wasn't Disney, I would've felt silly taking a pic, so I'm afraid you'll just have to take my word for it... it was delish!

The children gave me some lovely flowers... tulips and irises from a florist (thanks, Daddy) and some little wildflowers that Tricia found growing in the back yard that smelled heavenly! Billy made a ceramic sculpture in school and, fortunately, I could tell exactly what it was... a dish of ice cream! :laughing:

"Look, Mom!" Tricia laughed. "A Hidden Mickey!!"

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http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/DSCN2132.jpg




Kathy
I love the Ice Cream Sculpture! It looks good enough to eat. Great Job Billy.

[KathyRN137]

So big deal Kathy you have a teenager......:confused3

Do I need to bring the Wedding photos out again???????

:lmao::rotfl2:


I know, I know! :rolleyes:

But you've had a chance to get used to it! It's still brand-new to me!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I love your picture of the tickets. We received two Donald Duck tickets, one Goofy and one Pluto.




We got five different characters because all five are adult tickets. :rolleyes: I wonder how many characters they have in all??

At least these are hard plastic. The ones from the Pirate & Princess Party were paper (like APs.)

I think its funny that Tricia wants the Minnie... after all, they're tickets to the same party!! :rotfl: We definitely have to do a meet...


Kathy

[Goofster57]

I know, I know! :rolleyes:

But you've had a chance to get used to it! It's still brand-new to me!


Kathy

Okay, I guess I can cut you some slack this time.

[MinnieNurse]

I am on page 35 now, getting caught up. AKV-that should be a great trip. We visited AKL in December and all agreed we would love to try it.

[brookelizabeth]

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/DSCN2132.jpg


You have trained your children VERY well for one to make a Hidden Mickey and the other to spot it. I bet y ou are so proud! :goodvibes

Really, what a very lovely Mother's Day, flowers and a handmade gift-:lovestruc


I'm the mother of a teenager!!!


I can't even fathom. :eek: :hug:

[KathyRN137]

Goofster57: I am very relieved you are giving me a break! You must be softening up in your "old age." :lmao:


MinnieNurse page 35? How many pages is this, anyway? Oh Wow! 51 pages! I can't believe it... we've got such a long, long way to go!


brookelizabeth: I know you've heard this before, but the time really does fly! I was looking at your pictues of Henry and thinking how it seems like only yesterday that Billy was that age!! ;)


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I am feeling rather wistful today. I usually have Fridays off and the kids are both at school. Ed worked last night, so he's sleeping. I should be doing housework, but I just don't have the motivation.

It seems such a very long time until our Halloween trip! :sad2: Its fun writing up my report from our trip last April, but its making me a bit homesick for Walt Disney World because I keep looking at all the pictures and remembering all the fun we had. Then I realize that its been a whole year since we've been and we still have a very long 5 1/2 months until we go again.

Finances may have something to do with my blue mood. There won't be any $$ to do any getaways this summer, so I don't have anything special to look forward to. Oh, I know I'll be happy about it come October, but it just makes for a long, dull summer ahead. Blech! Park hours and ADRs aren't until August, so I'm in that dreaded planning limbo stage.

That's why I enjoy the TR boards so much... it gives me a chance to go to WDW vicariouslly through others who love it as much as I do!!

Thanks for reading,

Kathy

[irish dancer]

:hug: just a quick hug for you.

It may seem like your trip is a long way off but you'll be surprised how quickly the time will go. I'm always torn wanting time to slow down so I can enjoy the kids at these ages but then again I'm usually wanting time to fly for end of school, vaca, etc.

[maroo]

Aw!! That really stinks! Hugs to you! :hug:

Do you guys have any cool water parks in your area? We just discovered that we have one only 45 min from Lauren's that has a fairly cheap season pass. So we plan to get season passes this year and go several times...which will be a mini vacation.

I don't know why we have not thought of it before...I think we thought the season passes would be so expensive? :confused3 But they weren't bad! :thumbsup2

[MinnieNurse]

:hug: I look at it like this. We are just banking up all our small trips into one big super duper Disney trip. We are kind of in the same shoes, once we decided to go back to Disney this year we had to put everything else on hold.

But it will pay off in the end, and you-you get AKV and MNSSHP!! Lucky girl!!:dance3:

[KathyRN137]

:hug: just a quick hug for you.

It may seem like your trip is a long way off but you'll be surprised how quickly the time will go. I'm always torn wanting time to slow down so I can enjoy the kids at these ages but then again I'm usually wanting time to fly for end of school, vaca, etc.

I'm the same way... I guess I just like having something "in the works" that's fun to look forward to!

Come September, we'll all be saying, "Where did the summer go??"


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Aw!! That really stinks! Hugs to you! :hug:



Thanks... I knew you'd understand!


Kathy

[DearDaisyinDurham]

How did I miss your PTR? Lots to catch up on!!

Hugs to you for the summer to fly by~and time will go quickly w/ the Dis & TGM

Kids have that funny way of sailing into the teen years - but enjoy every day at THIS stage, 2 of our "kids" are in their mid-20's and 3rd "child" turns 20 next month!!

Believe it or not, you'll be sighing for the teen years.....

[mousescrapper]

Understand the summer blues....

with the March trip this yr and the big trip in November next yr I have 2 non trip summers ahead me.

We'll fill it w/ trips to the pool, zoo, summer camps and I hope a road trip to Atlanta to visit my Aunt and family in August.

well at least I have Disney to look forward too...trying not to plan too much, but it's hard :rolleyes1

[KathyRN137]

Believe it or not, you'll be sighing for the teen years.....

Really?? EGAD!! :eek:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Understand the summer blues....

We'll fill it w/ trips to the pool, zoo, summer camps and I hope a road trip to Atlanta to visit my Aunt and family in August.



Sounds good!! :thumbsup2

We blew so much money on our reconstruction last summer... this will be our second "stay-cation" summer in a row!! :rolleyes: I guess that's why I'm really longing to go back to Disney...


Kathy

[Halloweenqueen]

Feeling the same way, Kathy. We doubt there will be money or vacation days for a getaway this summer.

The kids wish I would have made our Disney plans for August. I just didn't want to do a summer trip. We went in June two years ago, and although we had a good time all I remember is how hot we were. I have the sweaty pictures to prove it! :lmao:

I've been trying not to get too excited about the trip. I tend to obsess. lol I want to make my countdown calendar. 100 day day mark is our starting point and we have almost 40 days until then.

[KathyRN137]

The kids wish I would have made our Disney plans for August. I just didn't want to do a summer trip. We went in June two years ago, and although we had a good time all I remember is how hot we were. I have the sweaty pictures to prove it! :lmao:




Oh, I agree! Our first trip was in early September...not a single day under 90 degrees and, ugh! How humid!! :scared:

It is worth it (to me) to wait until the Fall, especially now that we will be there for Halloween.

I think I'm over the obsessive trip-planning... I just wish we didn't have so long to wait!! :rolleyes: I was going to start our countdown at 30 days, but perhaps I'll extend it.


Kathy

[IluvXU]

It is hard to have a summer of no big fun.. just come up with some simple things to do around home that are cheap / free... hugs to you!

[MinnieNurse]

Oh, I agree! Our first trip was in early September...not a single day under 90 degrees and, ugh! How humid!! :scared:

It is worth it (to me) to wait until the Fall, especially now that we will be there for Halloween.

I think I'm over the obsessive trip-planning... I just wish we didn't have so long to wait!! :rolleyes: I was going to start our countdown at 30 days, but perhaps I'll extend it.


Kathy


We are going in August, but I would so take Halloween over the summer. We are from Texas so the heat is mild compared to Texas heat. :lmao: We went in June one year and thought it was actually nice and cool compared to our Texas weather. But, I would love, love, love to go to MNSSHP! You will be glad you waited once it gets here..

[All7OfUs]

I agree, find a few simple things you don't usually get to do. Go to the scrapbooking store and pre-make some pages, if you do that; learn how to use your camera better- or even take a Comm. College class in photog. (all in hopes of better shots of your fav. place, of course!); try to make a "Disney dish-of-the-day" for a couple of months (like Tonga Toast or cream cheese mashed potatoes or chedder cheese soup or even school bread!)?? I know nothing is the same as actually being there, but maybe you could find ways to assuage the anticipation- or to help build it up!!

[KathyRN137]

Awww! Thanks everyone, you are so sweet! :grouphug:

I don't know what I'm complaining about! I guess I was just having one of those days... I should be ashamed of myself.

I was outside sweeping our brand-new deck while Ed was cutting the grass yesterday and I thought, "Kathy, you have a bigger house this summer with a gorgeous new kitchen and, finally, a second bathroom... the whole house is practically new... what are you thinking??" :rolleyes:

For ten years we lived in a tiny house and we had no way to enjoy the outside. Now we've got a deck so we can cook out and eat out all summer long! :sunny:

So... now we have less money each month because we're paying for it... what did I expect?? Our Disney vacation is certainly the highlight of the year, but, we are enjoying the comfort of this house every single day. I am very thankful for that and realize that I have been truly blessed. :worship:


Kathy

[MinnieNurse]

Awww! Thanks everyone, you are so sweet! :grouphug:

I don't know what I'm complaining about! I guess I was just having one of those days... I should be ashamed of myself.

I was outside sweeping our brand-new deck while Ed was cutting the grass yesterday and I thought, "Kathy, you have a bigger house this summer with a gorgeous new kitchen and, finally, a second bathroom... the whole house is practically new... what are you thinking??" :rolleyes:

For ten years we lived in a tiny house and we had no way to enjoy the outside. Now we've got a deck so we can cook out and eat out all summer long! :sunny:

So... now we have less money each month because we're paying for it... what did I expect?? Our Disney vacation is certainly the highlight of the year, but, we are enjoying the comfort of this house every single day. I am very thankful for that and realize that I have been truly blessed. :worship:


Kathy

:goodvibesLove your outlook on things.

Barbeques are a great way to spend the summer and with a new kitchen it makes it even better. DH and my idea of a great weekend is sitting on our back porch barbequeing. We swear we can solve the problems of the world on that back porch. :rotfl:

We looked at going to the beach for July 4th, but the cost of the resort was crazy, we could have almost done another trip to Disney, so we will be on the porch with our BBQ!

[KathyRN137]

We looked at going to the beach for July 4th, but the cost of the resort was crazy, we could have almost done another trip to Disney, so we will be on the porch with our BBQ!


I think that's what got to me yesterday. My 19 yr old stepson is trying to plan a summer visit now that he's done with school for the year and hasn't started his summer job yet. (We haven't seen him since Christmas.) We were looking at Memorial Day Weekend... even though B & T still have school until June 25th, they have that Monday off and I'm sure it wouldn't be a problem for them to miss that Friday... a lot of kids take off that day. :rolleyes1

But, yikes! All the resort prices go up dramatically on holiday weekends! :eek: I'd love to do something special... sometimes he comes and sleeps so late, then stays up way past the other kids' bedtimes. They don't get a whole lot of time together.

Perhaps we could go camping. I'd hate it (I'm just not a campout kind of girl) but the kids would have fun!


Kathy

[MRYPPNS]

Perhaps we could go camping. I'd hate it (I'm just not a campout kind of girl) but the kids would have fun!


Kathy

Some campgrounds have little cabins you can rent just like Disney (I'm sure they are not as nice, but it beats sleeping on the ground.)

[MinnieNurse]

Some campgrounds have little cabins you can rent just like Disney (I'm sure they are not as nice, but it beats sleeping on the ground.)

I am with you. My idea of camping is our camper trailer or a cabin. Must have running water and air conditioning. Those are my 2 requirements. :rotfl:

You might check into a cabin, it might not be too bad. We rented a cabin on a ranch once pretty reasonable. The ranch had horse back riding lessons, fishing, and a hot tub at each cabin. It was fun.

[KathyRN137]

I am with you. My idea of camping is our camper trailer or a cabin. Must have running water and air conditioning. Those are my 2 requirements. :rotfl:


Oh yeah, definitely!!

The latest word from DSS is that he's waiting to hear about a summer job... "the boss" is supposed to call by Monday. Ed told him he could easily get him a job up here, but I'm sure he wouldn't want to leave all his friends for the entire summer. (He's in North Carolina with his mom.)

If he doesn't get the job, however, I'd like him to try to come up for at least a couple of weeks so we can see him. Of course, he's 19 now, so we can't really "force" him. Oh well, hopefully we'll know by Monday! :thumbsup2


Between college and baseball, its been hard to arrange visits and we miss him a lot.


http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/DSCN2041.jpg


Kathy

[MinnieNurse]

Is that your house with all the Christmas decorations? If so we have something besides nursing in common. I love Christmas decorations. So far I have 3 tree's and am trying to talk my husband into letting me put one in his "man room". I have a Disney tree in my living room, a fireman tree in the dining room, and a sports tree in DS room. I really want to do a wildlife/hunting theme tree in DH room with all his hunting trophies, but so far he is not budging. He did buy me a deer stand ornament this past December, which will not go on any of my tree's, so I think that is a sign he is ready for a tree in the "Man Room". Dont you?

[KathyRN137]

Is that your house with all the Christmas decorations? If so we have something besides nursing in common. I love Christmas decorations....


Yes, that's our living room!
Besides WDW, I absolutely love Christmas, especially decorating!! :santa:

(But my favorite Christmas "ornament" was the one sitting in the chair!)

Good luck with the Man-Room tree!
Tell your DH he's lucky... all my DH has is a Man-Closet!! :lmao:

Seriously, we call it the "Man-Closet!!"

Kathy

[DisMomAmy]

Hi Kathy! Sorry you were having some Disney blues... but glad you are pink again! I'm surprised I haven't been feeling more blue - I guess it's all the hustle & bustle of the end of the school year & getting ready for summer things. We usually go up to the White Mountains of NH for 4 or 5 days in June, but since we just got back from a long & expensive trip we'll either be skipping it or just going up for one night. :confused3 We'll be out there at the BBQ this summer too! I just bought a bunch of new sand for our large sandbox - sounds like a summer vacation at the beach, right? :rotfl:

Love your MNSSHP tickets! :thumbsup2
That cracks me up about the "teenager" stuff Disney sent! :lmao:

[KathyRN137]

That cracks me up about the "teenager" stuff Disney sent! :lmao:


Ugghh.

That's all I have to say.

Ugghh! ;)


Kathy

[brookelizabeth]

Oh that planning lull, where you are eagerly waiting for the park hours to be released, is known for bringing on the blues! Your trip seems light years away and there isn't much you can do to prepare except dream.

I'm glad to hear though that you pulled yourself out of it...your home sounds LOVELY and well worth the money.

Maybe you'll be able to take advantage of some 'free' (or almost free) activites. Zoos and museums usually have a free day...maybe music in the park type things?

I'm sure the summer will ZIP by!!

[KathyRN137]

Well, today I decided to pull up the TGM Least Crowded Parks Chart from the first week of November '08 so I could begin playing around with a very tentative itinerary.

I got as far as Day One and then gave up!! :lmao:

It's just impossible to do any kind of schedule without knowing the park hours, EMHs, or the "select" nights for SpectroMagic and Fantasmic! Ugghh! And the really annoying thing about the hours is that they probably won't be out in time for my 90 day window for making ADRs.

That's what happens when you vacation on the first week of the month. The park hours are supposed to be released three months in advance, but I've noticed that the past two years they don't get released until about the 5th or 6th day of the month. My ADR window opens on August 1st... so I guess I'll just be doing them by the seat of my pants!! :rotfl:

Oh well! Here's the tentative plan for Travel Day and Day One! Whoopee! :rolleyes: It's not much, but it's a start!


Friday 10/30/09

8:30pm Depart JFK airport.
11:50pm Arrive MCO airport.
Towncar service to ASMu.

~ 12:30am Arrive ASMu and check in.
Fall into bed!


Saturday 10/31/09

Sleep in.
Check out of ASMu / arrange for luggage transfer to AKL.
Late breakfast or early lunch at Intermission food court.
Bus to AK then bus to AKL-Kidani Village.
Check in at Kidani Village.
Explore Resort / Swim if time permits.
Get into room ASAP / shower / change into Halloween costumes.

Bus to MK as early as possible for MNSSHP. Party ends at midnight.

*Turn clocks back one hour for DST before bed.


Sunday 11/1/09

Sleep in.

That's all!


The rest will just have to wait..... for another 2 1/2 months!! :sad:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Oh that planning lull, where you are eagerly waiting for the park hours to be released, is known for bringing on the blues! Your trip seems light years away and there isn't much you can do to prepare except dream.

I'm glad to hear though that you pulled yourself out of it...your home sounds LOVELY and well worth the money.



Thanks, Brook! You're sweet!

It must've been hard for you to push your own trip back a few months, but it sounds like ringing in the New Year at the World will be such a blast!!

The trip does seem light years away, but thank goodness for children; they do keep us busy!


Kathy

[All7OfUs]

It's just impossible to do any kind of schedule without knowing the park hours, EMHs, or the "select" nights for SpectroMagic and Fantasmic! Ugghh! And the really annoying thing about the hours is that they probably won't be out in time for my 90 day window for making ADRs.

That's what happens when you vacation on the first week of the month. The park hours are supposed to be released three months in advance, but I've noticed that the past two years they don't get released until about the 5th or 6th day of the month. My ADR window opens on August 1st... so I guess I'll just be doing them by the seat of my pants!! :rotfl:

Kathy

I think maroo and I are in the same boat!!! Ours is Labor Day weekend and on, first week of the month. I was leaning on not getting PH's so I could just plan my days as WHOLE days at parks, but now I see that even if I try to do that I may end up not planning Spectro or Fantasmic in. UGH!!! Why can't they just go back to getting out those hours early!!?? I hate it! AND we're gonna completely mess up our ADRs if we try to make them w/o those hours!

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, I just love reading that line, "Check in at Kidani Village."

Just to make you feel a little bit better, I have noticed since they moved the release of park hours to 90 days out, they seem to be posting them right on the first. So, fingers crossed they do that for you before you make your ADRs.

[KathyRN137]

Just to make you feel a little bit better, I have noticed since they moved the release of park hours to 90 days out, they seem to be posting them right on the first. So, fingers crossed they do that for you before you make your ADRs.

Jackie, I do hope you're right! :goodvibes

(And I'm sure Maroo and Liesa do too!)

I'm one of those people who likes to avoid EMH parks, so I'd love to have that information "on time" as well!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Help!

I need your help! ::yes::


I was looking at my seedling schedule and I got to thinking...

Uh-Oh! That phrase always means I'm pondering spending more money than I should!! :lmao: I got to thinking, "You know, we're checking in so late on Friday night. It would be so much more convenient if we could just check right into Kidani and not have to switch resorts the next day (the day of the MNSSHP). I wonder how much it would cost????...."

Yup. Oh-Oh! :laughing:

I've used up all our DVC points (and even wound up having to borrow 3 points from next year) to secure a savanna view. BUT, as DVC members, we get a discount on "cash" reservations at DVC resorts. I am feeling sorely tempted to change our first night at ASMu to a cash night at Kidani!! :rolleyes1

But... the price difference between a discounted night in a one-bedroom savanna view at Kidani and a family suite at ASMu is around $400.

Gulp.

Is the convenience of not having to move resorts worth $400?? :confused3 In my state of Disney Trip Planning euphoria I'm actually considering it!!!

Help! Please stop me from calling Member Services and making that change!!!


Kathy

[preschoolmom]

It's just impossible to do any kind of schedule without knowing the park hours, EMHs, or the "select" nights for SpectroMagic and Fantasmic! Ugghh!



Yep. My planning is at a stand still, too. I have it in excel, all subject to park hours...

We're only doing two ADRs this trip (in an attempt not to be tied to ADRs every day, and the dining plan...). We are planning for one MNSSHP, preferably our first night (Sunday the 25th), but that all depends on if tickets sell out before we are 100% sure this trip is a go (I think we'll be fine).

Also, airfare is so cheap right now, we're considering flying instead of driving :eek: Which we never have with the kids... So that might change our dates a tiny bit, too (and then, without a car to bring all our food, we might cave and do the meal plan... Oh, I don't know, LOL)...

[preschoolmom]

Help!

Is the convenience of not having to move resorts worth $400??

Help! Please stop me from calling Member Services and making that change!!!



No! This way, you get to experience ASMU Family Suite (albeit briefly), the ASMU food court... And then it is two simple bus rides (to AK, and then AKL) to your new resort.

Save the $400. $400 is a good chunk of money!

[maroo]

For me...I would take the $400! But...that is just me and my luggage.

If I was traveling with Lauren and all of her medical equipment...I would PAY $500 to not have to move it again...

I think you guys are somewhere in the middle of that...since you have so many people and luggage...I would go for it!

I guess the question might be...what would you do with that extra time? Would you spend time with your family making memories that will last forever? Or will staying at two resorts and moving be a memory (it could be fun :confused3) that would be cool to remember?

How much is your time worth to you? In Disney?

Gosh...I am talking myself in saying YES for you!! :) :lmao:

[KathyRN137]

Also, airfare is so cheap right now, we're considering flying instead of driving ... So that might change our dates a tiny bit, too (and then, without a car to bring all our food, we might cave and do the meal plan...


Airfares are getting better!

I keep waffling on the DDP too. The CS plan sounds good, but then we'd have to pay OOP for any character meals, and I know we want to do at least two...

When we drove last year, it was convenient to have that cooler full of drinks and snacks... it did save us some $$, so I see your point.


And THANKS for the support regarding the ressie change....

I feel like I'm an addict having a moment of weakness and I'm calling my sponsers for help!! :rotfl:


Kathy

[maroo]

Airfares are getting better!

I keep waffling on the DDP too. The CS plan sounds good, but then we'd have to pay OOP for any character meals, and I know we want to do at least two...

When we drove last year, it was convenient to have that cooler full of drinks and snacks... it did save us some $$, so I see your point.


And THANKS for the support regarding the ressie change....

I feel like I'm an addict having a moment of weakness and I'm calling my sponsers for help!! :rotfl:


Kathy

Uh Oh!! :eek:

I didn't realized you wanted the Fiscally Responsible answer!! :lmao:

Just think of all of the OTHER things you can do with the $400! Save it!

This is ME talking myself out of telling you to go for it! :hyper2:

[KathyRN137]

Gosh...I am talking myself in saying YES for you!! :) :lmao:


YEAH! What's up with that?? :laughing:

I'm trying to use some Reverse Fuzzy Disney Math to talk myself out of it....

"If you don't spend that $400, it would be as if you got your MNSSHP tickets for FREE!!"


Kathy

[All7OfUs]

Hmm...just me and my frugal kind of self, but I'd say no, save it and use it somewhere else- if you even really (I do mean really) have it. Start a fund for your "next trip". I don't think moving will be that hard, especially since you had planned on sleeping in anyway, and since Disney moves your luggage for you.

I'd say $400 would pay for at least those 2 character meals you want to do.

Now, having said all that, you should hop over to our PTR, and answer the same question for me, on our poll!! :rotfl2:

[KathyRN137]

Now, having said all that, you should hop over to our PTR, and answer the same question for me, on our poll!! :rotfl2:


:laughing: Sing it with me, now...

"We're all in this together..."


Kathy

[jcc0621]

Don't do it. Just think of all the things you could do with $400....

Book a Wishes Cruise instead:rolleyes1

[mrsksomeday]

You know me, I am cheap so I would say save the $400 - to spend on something else at Disney :lmao:.

[Tnkrbelle565]

I'd save the money (to later blow while I was there!). AllStars is close to AKL so it's a short bus/cab ride to move.

[KathyRN137]

You know me, I am cheap so I would say save the $400 - to spend on something else at Disney :lmao:.

Hi Tracy!

Yes, if it wasn't so expensive...say, if the difference in rooms was more like $200... I would probably give in to the temptation... especially since Ed is all about comfort and convenience on vacation.

But $400 is just too steep!!

My one concern is about the luggage getting moved in time. I'm told that luggage assistance is spotty at the Value Resorts (?) We'd like to get over to the Magic Kingdom by 4 or 4:30 and I don't want to get stuck waiting around our villa for our luggage!

I may have to pack our Halloween costumes separately and take them with us on the bus to Kidani. Bell Services at Kidani can store them for us while we wait to get in to our villa. It'll be a pain, but better safe than sorry.

Uggh. I just realized that I gave myself one more reason to change my first night ressie!! :rolleyes2


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Don't do it. Just think of all the things you could do with $400....

Book a Wishes Cruise instead:rolleyes1

Hey Janet!

I would like to do a Wishes Cruise someday!

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I'd save the money (to later blow while I was there!). AllStars is close to AKL so it's a short bus/cab ride to move.

Very true. :goodvibes

I'm probably more concerned about moving our luggage than moving us!


Kathy

[mrsksomeday]

We have never had issues with luggage assistance at Pop. Now we haven't resort hopped (yet - might be a hint to something in December :rotfl:). I would think if you got up early and had them transfer it early in the morning I don't think you will have too much of an issue.

Another option, have one of the adults, you or Ed, hop a taxi with all the luggage over to Kidani and have luggage services hold it until your room is ready :thumbsup2. Then meet the family at what ever park they went to.

[KathyRN137]

Another option, have one of the adults, you or Ed, hop a taxi with all the luggage over to Kidani and have luggage services hold it until your room is ready :thumbsup2.



Hmmm. :scratchin That's not a bad idea!
At least I'd feel like we had more control over the situation...

Thanks! :hug:

Kathy

[Hedy]

I wouldn't, $400 is a lot of coin.

[KathyRN137]

I wouldn't, $400 is a lot of coin.

True.

I have to think about feeding this crew and $400 will go a long way to help offset that part of the budget!

Thanks... keep those Voices of Reason coming!! :goodvibes

Kathy

[GlassSlippers]

No! This way, you get to experience ASMU Family Suite (albeit briefly), the ASMU food court... And then it is two simple bus rides (to AK, and then AKL) to your new resort.

Save the $400. $400 is a good chunk of money!

I agree! You can feed your crew for several days on that much money. If it were me and mine, I'd really want to try out the Family Suite as well.

[KathyRN137]

I agree! You can feed your crew for several days on that much money. If it were me and mine, I'd really want to try out the Family Suite as well.


The urge to "upgrade" that first night (for convenience) is slowly fading...

The Family Suite is very similar to the DVC one-bedroom, just smaller and less costly.

ASMu Family Suite = (Regular Season) ~ $250+ per night
Kidani Village One Bedroom = (Regular Season) ~ $820+ per night (cash) :scared1:

Yikes!

This is why we bought into DVC. We may not have a lot of points, but they do get us a lot for the money! :thumbsup2


Kathy

[melk]

How many points is it for one night at Kidani? On the rent/trade board you can sometimes rent for as low as $8 per point, I think the average is about $10 per point. You could either rent outright from someone or have someone transfer the points into your account. We did that one year because we were short a few points and it worked out fine.

This last trip we didn't have enough points for the whole week at VWL, but I had already booked our flights for 1 week. So I needed a place for us the first night only somewhere. I splurged and booked us a night at the Polynesian as a surprise for the family. I have wanted to stay there since my first visit as a teenager 25 years ago (I realize I'm dating myself ;)).

While we LOVED the Polynesian, one night was not enough and it was a bit of a pain to move. I had everyone live out of their carryon (I had packed them all with bathing suit, pajamas and one outfit each) for that first night only, we had our luggage with us but never opened it. I knew it would be chaos otherwise. That would be my advice to you if you stick with your original plan.

Four hundred is a lot of money, I know I would be thinking of all the other ways it could be spent. But then again, you do arrive late and it would be so much less hassle for you all when you've got two late nights in a row.

I'm sorry, I'm not helping you. I feel like I'm pushing you off the wagon.:rotfl:

[KathyRN137]

How many points is it for one night at Kidani? On the rent/trade board you can sometimes rent for as low as $8 per point, I think the average is about $10 per point. You could either rent outright from someone or have someone transfer the points into your account. We did that one year because we were short a few points and it worked out fine.



That's an excellent idea, melk, and I would do it if we were talking about a weekday night. But a Friday night at AKL Savanna view is 45 points, so I'd wind up spending:

$450 (rent) - $250 (ASMu) = $200 more than keeping ressie at ASMu.

Thanks for the suggestion, though!

Perhaps I'll discuss it with Ed and see what he says.



*******************************************


We're really just going to be at ASMu for the one night... just as a place on property to rest our heads. I'm not planning anything for the next day except for moving over to Kidani (because we have the late night planned at MNSSHP.)

Ed really, really wanted to avoid travel and party on the same day, so that's the only reason we added the extra night in the first place.

We're flying down late because I don't want the kids to miss any more school and my DSis won't be able to get DNiece up to our house until at least 4:30 since she's done at 3:00.

Figure with an 8:30 departure time, we need to get to Newark airport by 6:30. (Ed is a real :chewy: about getting to the airport no later than 2hrs before a flight!) It takes 20-30 min to get there, depending on traffic, so if we plan to leave our house at 6:00 we've got an hour and a half of "wiggle room" so DNiece doesn't miss the flight.

That gets us into Orlando just before midnight. Late, I know, but what can you do?? The kids can only miss so much school at their ages!



Kathy

[MRYPPNS]

Another option, have one of the adults, you or Ed, hop a taxi with all the luggage over to Kidani and have luggage services hold it until your room is ready :thumbsup2. Then meet the family at what ever park they went to.

I was going to suggest a taxi as well. POP to AK Village shouldn't be more than $15 or so. Save yourself some money (no $400 night stay) and some hassle (bussing from resort to resort) and get 2 taxi's. Here's your FDM....$400 - $30 = $370.....I just saved you $370 that you can now spend on pins!:lmao:

[KathyRN137]

Here's your FDM....$400 - $30 = $370.....I just saved you $370 that you can now spend on pins!:lmao:


:thumbsup2 :rotfl2:

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

How many points is it for one night at Kidani? On the rent/trade board you can sometimes rent for as low as $8 per point, I think the average is about $10 per point.


I'm sorry, I'm not helping you. I feel like I'm pushing you off the wagon.:rotfl:


I thought about your suggestion and decided to explore it a bit. :goodvibes

I posted on the DVC RENT/TRADE board to see how much it would cost to rent the points.

If it's not too outrageously expensive, I'd really like to spend that Friday night at Kidani and avoid the hassle of moving!

Thanks,

Kathy

[nu2wdisneyw]

No, it is not worth it...just pocket the $400 and use it to spend on Disney Christmas decorations! :thumbsup2

[KathyRN137]

No, it is not worth it...just pocket the $400 and use it to spend on Disney Christmas decorations! :thumbsup2

:lmao: Okay, now you're just :stir:


Kathy

[cjackearl]

Hi Kathy!:wave2: Look at me getting all brave.;) Ok, I've got a lot to catch up on, so back to reading.:goodvibes

[KathyRN137]

Hi Kathy!:wave2: Look at me getting all brave.;) Ok, I've got a lot to catch up on, so back to reading.:goodvibes


:welcome: Christine!!


Kathy

[maroo]

Wow...this thread is making me dizzy!! :goodvibes

Renting points....... :scratchin

[nu2wdisneyw]

:lmao::rotfl2::rotfl::lmao: Okay, now you're just :stir:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Wow...this thread is making me dizzy!! :goodvibes



Ha!! Well if that isn't the pot calling the kettle black!! :rotfl:

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Perhaps some of you sharp-eyed DISers have noticed the subtle change in my countdown ticker, hmmm???


Kathy

[maroo]

Ha!! Well if that isn't the pot calling the kettle black!! :rotfl:

Kathy

OMG!

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

:blush:

You got me. I set it up so nicely and you hit it right out of the park! You got me. ::yes::

Score: 1 Kathy 0 Maroo

:rotfl2:

[maroo]

Perhaps some of you sharp-eyed DISers have noticed the subtle change in my countdown ticker, hmmm???


Kathy

Hmm... :scratchin

:sad2:

No idea.


????

Kathy 2 Maroo 0

[KathyRN137]

Well, I did post on the DVC Rent/Trade board, but while I was waiting for my thread to be approved (it has to be written in the correct format), I decided to call Member Services just to see if that Friday night was even available!

Turns out that it was.

Also turns out that my figures were very wrong and the cost of the one-bedroom, savanna view, with the DVC member discount was much less than I originally thought! :yay:

It would not cost $400 more than ASMu, it would cost "only" $145 more!!!

I considered the question that my friend, Maroo, raised: How much is your time with your family at WDW worth? And I decided that YES, it WAS worth $145 to settle into Kidani and not have to bother packing up and moving the next day, then waiting until after 4pm to get into our room when we had MNSSHP tickets for that night burning holes in our pockets!!

So.... I booked the Friday night at Kidani and cancelled the ASMu ressie!!!

I know that Ed will be so happy... this is a VACATION after all, and the less complicated I can make it, the better!! :goodvibes

Now we can sleep in... explore the resort... swim in that amazing pool.... and still have lots of time to change into our costumes and get over to the MK early for the party!!

Whaddya think??

Kathy

[maroo]

:woohoo: :yay: :cheer2: :yay: :woohoo:

Awesome!!! :)

I can't wait to see what wonderful things you guys come up with to do with the extra day...really...that you have! :)

And to think the extra night was all Ed's idea!!! :thumbsup2 You get double points for THAT!!

:lmao:


Kathy 4 Maroo 0

[mom2mek]

:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

That's fabulous news, Kathy! I got a little teeny tiny look at the resort this past trip, and it looks fabulous! :thumbsup2 Didn't go inside or anything, but what I saw of it, I certainly liked! :banana:

Sara

[KathyRN137]

:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

That's fabulous news, Kathy! I got a little teeny tiny look at the resort this past trip, and it looks fabulous! :thumbsup2 Didn't go inside or anything, but what I saw of it, I certainly liked! :banana:

Sara

Oh boy! You're back!! :woohoo:

Can't wait to hear all about the weekend!!!

Kathy

[cjackearl]

Score on the extra night at Kidani!:cool1: Yes, for only one night I think you'll be so much more relaxed just settling in to one spot.

[Charleston Princess]

Jackie, I do hope you're right! :goodvibes

(And I'm sure Maroo and Liesa do too!)

I'm one of those people who likes to avoid EMH parks, so I'd love to have that information "on time" as well!


Kathy

We like to avoid EMH parks as well so I totally understand the need to have park hours before making ADRs.

Looks like I missed out on a lot of decision-making today! I get to come in at the end and say, "Good job, Kathy, on the extra night at Kidani! $145 more is not bad at all!" :laughing:

[KathyRN137]

Score on the extra night at Kidani!:cool1: Yes, for only one night I think you'll be so much more relaxed just settling in to one spot.


Thanks... the relaxation/convenience factor really won out!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Looks like I missed out on a lot of decision-making today! I get to come in at the end and say, "Good job, Kathy, on the extra night at Kidani! $145 more is not bad at all!" :laughing:


:rolleyes1 Yes, I really was in full Libra mode today...

I kept weighing things on the scales... each side going up, then down, then back up again until things seemed balanced!!

Thanks!

Kathy

[DearDaisyinDurham]

:thumbsup2 Two thumbs up! :thumbsup2

[mousescrapper]

sorry Kathy I missed out on some good fun and conversation....

Christmas decorating! LOVE IT HERE TOO! :santa:

we have 4 main trees: our family tree w/ hodge podge of everything in the living room, our Jesus tree in the front room sitting on a table, our glass ornamnet tree w/ many special ornaments that belong to DH and I (it was on sabatical for a ribbon and bead tree last yr due to Margaret) and the Kids tree w/ all of their ornaments over the yrs in the basement.

Plus we have 2 small trees that we have decoarted in various themes over the yr, like in our 1st house it was in the litchen decorated w/ real candy ornaments for our guests to have during holiday visits.

This yr I'd like to set up 1 of those tree w/ Disney ornaments...our collection is huge. Other great collections are, my Wizard of Oz collection and DH has many train ones.

The "Man __________"

My DH has a few various "man corners" He did have a Man room once prior to the kids...oh well someday he'll get one back. In our current home we first shared a basement office...but he has graciously gave it all to me for my Scrapbooking and Disney stuff :lovestruc

The DVC vs ASMsuite:

sorry I missed the debate....but I am so glad it worked out in the end, and your $ was way off to benefit you in the end! :thumbsup2

[melk]

That is so awesome, and in my opinion, completely worth it.

When I read your original plan, personally it just felt a little tiring to me, the late night arrival, then having to move the next day with thoughts of the party that night over your head (what time will the room be ready, etc.). I am so glad that now you can just check in and relax completely on Saturday. Way to go!!!

I really need to look into Kidani. I've started to think about where we would like to go next time, BLT looks just beautiful, but very pricey pointwise (I think we would have to go for the MK view). I would like to check out the Treehouse Villas as they look great, just not sure if they'll be too secluded. Can't wait to hear about Kidani as we hadn't considered that. When are they going to send us our new DVC planners???? (I love to have something concrete in my hands to peruse over as opposed to the internet :goodvibes).

Congrats again!!:thumbsup2

Melissa

[KathyRN137]

:thumbsup2 Two thumbs up! :thumbsup2

I knew you'd like it! Now I can be Lazy on Saturday morning! :goodvibes


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

sorry Kathy I missed out on some good fun and conversation....

Christmas decorating! LOVE IT HERE TOO! :santa:

we have 4 main trees...

Wow! Between you and MinnieNurse, I'm beginning to feel strange saying I have only ONE Christmas tree!!


The "Man __________"


We share a small walk-in closet for our clothes, but I gave Ed the second closet in our bedroom for all his MAN-stuff... his police uniforms and gear mostly... plus his gun safe. It's nice having it separate from "our" closet. Plus, I'm no longer tripping over his boots and numerous duffle bags!!

It's as much a luxury for me as it is for him! ;)


The DVC vs ASMsuite:

sorry I missed the debate....but I am so glad it worked out in the end, and your $ was way off to benefit you in the end! :thumbsup2



Thanks... I think so, too!!

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

When I read your original plan, personally it just felt a little tiring to me, the late night arrival, then having to move the next day with thoughts of the party that night over your head (what time will the room be ready, etc.). I am so glad that now you can just check in and relax completely on Saturday. Way to go!!!

Can't wait to hear about Kidani as we hadn't considered that. When are they going to send us our new DVC planners????




Oh, don't get me started on those planners! :rolleyes: The year's almost half over and we don't have our '09 info yet!!! I'm with you... I like having a book to flip through.

The treehouse villas don't seem too secluded... depending on location. I think I can get a link to a map if you don't have it.

Here it is!
http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30879961&postcount=2


Kathy

[DearDaisyinDurham]

I knew you'd like it! Now I can be Lazy on Saturday morning! :goodvibes


Kathy

yes, I love it. It's one thing if it's just you (or me, I love to switch! :rotfl2: ) but moving the entire family for one night, you made the right call for sure!

[KathyRN137]

yes, I love it. It's one thing if it's just you (or me, I love to switch! :rotfl2: ) but moving the entire family for one night, you made the right call for sure!


Yes, thanks, especially with an autistic child.

The less disruption, the better! :thumbsup2


Kathy

[preschoolmom]

I'm glad you found a good solution! Now you don't have to stress about moving, the bags, etc.

:yay:

[KathyRN137]

I'm glad you found a good solution! Now you don't have to stress about moving, the bags, etc.



Thanks! :grouphug:

Now, please finalize those plans so you can start your pre-trippie!!

Oh, what the heck. Start one anyway!! :rotfl:

Kathy

[All7OfUs]

This is very awesome planning- I think I don't even come close to being that savvy in all the options- I NEED YOU, KATHY!! HA!

The whole conversation just felt like me taking a wild ride on the teacups! :dance3:

Ah well, I'm sure between maroo and I, we'll get everything sorted out, just as ship-shape as you have :grouphug:

Here's a great big :yay: for your (hopefully once and for all) settled plans that look great!

Liesa

[All7OfUs]

Thanks! :grouphug:

Now, please finalize those plans so you can start your pre-trippie!!

Oh, what the heck. Start one anyway!! :rotfl:

Kathy


Yeah, we only had the tiniest inkling of what we're doing, and we started one A YEAR and A HALF ahead of our trip! :lmao:

[KathyRN137]

Yeah, we only had the tiniest inkling of what we're doing, and we started one A YEAR and A HALF ahead of our trip! :lmao:

Tee-Hee-Hee!! I was just going to tell you not to worry....you have lots of time...but I didn't want to rub it in! :goodvibes Sorry!


Kathy

[DisMomAmy]

Yay!! Congratulation Kathy! That's great news!

[carissanboys]

Looks like I've missed all of the excitement! ;) I think you've made the right decision. :thumbsup2

[KathyRN137]

Looks like I've missed all of the excitement! ;) I think you've made the right decision. :thumbsup2

Thanks. I suppose I just needed some kind of trip-planning to do while I wait for park hours!! ;)


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Yay!! Congratulation Kathy! That's great news!


Thanks, Amy!
I'm anxiously waiting to read about the first ride on Dinosaur!! :laughing:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Two little trip-planning tid-bits to report:


First: Tonight Ed came home from a two-day SWAT training seminar and I told him the news about dumping ASMu and changing to Kidani for our first night. Also had to tell him about the additional $145 it was going to cost. :rolleyes1 He was a bit surprised, but was fine with it.


I kind of thought he would be, but Whew!! It's nice to know for sure! ;)


Second: I've been searching all over the internet for a new bag to carry at WDW. I like the Baggalini messenger bag that I've used for the past 2 trips (and various day trips as well), but I don't care for the cross the body style. I love to wear my pin lanyard at the parks and the strap and the lanyard do not co-exist very well. I'm also concerned about losing pins that way. It's too bad, because it's the perfect size bag for me!


I like a bag that is roomy, but not too big, and can be worn over the shoulder. I also like to have features such as a cell-phone pocket and a place to hold a water bottle. So far all the bags I've seen and liked are either too big (Patagonia Half-Mass Bag ) or too small (Vera Bradley Hipster) or too expensive! (Piel 2-pocket Sling - $100!)


:confused3 Any suggestions??


Kathy

[Dreamer & Wisher]

Here is my bag from our last trip.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n205/i20west/IMG_6471.jpg

I recently made this one for DD

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n205/i20west/IMG_0383.jpg

For my next trip I am going to make a messenger bag like this out of Denim

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n205/i20west/IMG_0416.jpg

[MRYPPNS]

Funny you should write about park bags tonight.....

Today I was looking online at diaper bags and found one that I thought would make a great park bag...check out diaperdude.com

[maroo]

ok...I open up the "last page" on this pre-trippie and see a post about diaper bags and right above the post is an advertisement for diaper bags???!??! Is someone reading our mail? :confused3

That is so very strange!

Anyway...let me go back now and figure out what we are really talking about...as I am sure it is not diaper bags! :lmao:

[KathyRN137]

Here is my bag from our last trip.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n205/i20west/IMG_6471.jpg

I recently made this one for DD

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n205/i20west/IMG_0383.jpg

For my next trip I am going to make a messenger bag like this out of Denim

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n205/i20west/IMG_0416.jpg


Oh Nancy, they are just darling!

I wish I could sew! :rolleyes:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Funny you should write about park bags tonight.....

Today I was looking online at diaper bags and found one that I thought would make a great park bag...check out diaperdude.com


I will!

It's amazing how stylish the diaper bags are becoming!

I actually did like one of the Vera Bradley diaper bags.... Sometimes I miss pushing a stroller because it was so great to have the storage basket underneath!! :rotfl:


Kathy

[irish dancer]

Wow, I miss two days and look at all the action!

I'm glad the room situation worked out for you. My initial thought was $400 was too steep but all I could think of are the reports I've read of people getting into their DVC rooms late and I was worried since you're trying to go to the party that night. Did they link your reservations?

Not much help on the park bag. I used to use a full size backpack but it is too big now that the kids are older and I don't need as much stuff. I've gotten a Baggalini for our upcoming June trip.

Dreamer & Wisher - just LOVE your bags (DD12 saw them too and oooh'd and ahhh'd over them).

[KathyRN137]

ok...I open up the "last page" on this pre-trippie and see a post about diaper bags and right above the post is an advertisement for diaper bags???!??! Is someone reading our mail? :confused3


I think the ads are placed based upon key words in the text... must be a computer program or something.

But, I'd like to know why there always seems to be a Weight Watchers ad on my reports. You don't think my computer is trying to tell me something, do you?!? :rolleyes1 :lmao:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Wow, I miss two days and look at all the action!


You snooze, you lose!! :laughing:

Did they link your reservations?


Yes, I did.


Not much help on the park bag. I used to use a full size backpack but it is too big now that the kids are older and I don't need as much stuff. I've gotten a Baggalini for our upcoming June trip.



I liked the baggalini, but the cross-over isn't working for me. I like to carry lots of stuff, "just in case." Maybe I do need a diaper bag!


Kathy

[Hedy]

Two little trip-planning tid-bits to report:


First: Tonight Ed came home from a two-day SWAT training seminar and I told him the news about dumping ASMu and changing to Kidani for our first night. Also had to tell him about the additional $145 it was going to cost. :rolleyes1 He was a bit surprised, but was fine with it.


I kind of thought he would be, but Whew!! It's nice to know for sure! ;)


Second: I've been searching all over the internet for a new bag to carry at WDW. I like the Baggalini messenger bag that I've used for the past 2 trips (and various day trips as well), but I don't care for the cross the body style. I love to wear my pin lanyard at the parks and the strap and the lanyard do not co-exist very well. I'm also concerned about losing pins that way. It's too bad, because it's the perfect size bag for me!


I like a bag that is roomy, but not too big, and can be worn over the shoulder. I also like to have features such as a cell-phone pocket and a place to hold a water bottle. So far all the bags I've seen and liked are either too big (Patagonia Half-Mass Bag ) or too small (Vera Bradley Hipster) or too expensive! (Piel 2-pocket Sling - $100!)


:confused3 Any suggestions??


Kathy

I liked my LLBean travel bag-it's bigger than my vera bradley hipster.

[KathyRN137]

I liked my LLBean travel bag-it's bigger than my vera bradley hipster.

Is that the ergonomic sling bag?
I had one (size medium) for our first Disney trip and I thought it was a bit too small. Perhaps I should look into a larger size....

The only problem with carrying a big bag is that you tend to fill it up and then it gets too heavy! :rolleyes: I've got to find a happy medium...


Kathy

[Hedy]

It's the smaller of these bags http://www.llbean.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?categoryId=51604&storeId=1&catalogId=1&langId=-1&from=SR&feat=sr. It's lightweight, but big enough that my dad was able to use his as a man bag to carry a camcorder, camera and meds around Europe. It also has a few [ockets I find more accesable than on my bagalinni (there's a velcro pocket on the back I like for keeping some Excedrin and ginger on hand).

[KathyRN137]

It's the smaller of these bags http://www.llbean.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?categoryId=51604&storeId=1&catalogId=1&langId=-1&from=SR&feat=sr. It's lightweight, but big enough that my dad was able to use his as a man bag to carry a camcorder, camera and meds around Europe. It also has a few [ockets I find more accesable than on my bagalinni (there's a velcro pocket on the back I like for keeping some Excedrin and ginger on hand).


Hmm. The price certainly is right! :thumbsup2 Thanks for the tip!


Kathy

[All7OfUs]

You certainly aren't "rubbing it in", all's good! ;) I think we both are just so darned tootin' excited that we just wanted to share the whole journey with everyone here :goodvibes Although, I think we have FAR too many lurkers, and not enough posters! I guess as things get closer things will heat up.

By the way, does anyone here on your report know why, or even IF for sure, they have changed the ressie window from 500 days to only 1 year?? We would have had TONS of news to share, but maroo's efforts were thwarted a few weeks ago at CRO.

[KathyRN137]

I think we both are just so darned tootin' excited that we just wanted to share the whole journey with everyone here :goodvibes Although, I think we have FAR too many lurkers, and not enough posters!



I'm clueless as to the reservation window question. :confused:

I know that a lot of TR readers prefer to "lurk" and not post... I've never really understood it, but that's only because I'm a "poster!"

I think that once you've written a TR yourself, you understand how much the author appreciates comments (or even simple "Hello's") from readers and it makes you more inclined to post.

It's a great outlet for those of us who are trying not to drive our family members crazy with daily talk about WDW!! :laughing: As far as I'm concerned, it's never too early to start dreaming of and planning the next trip!!


Kathy

[winnapooh]

I'm clueless as to the reservation window question. :confused:

I know that a lot of TR readers prefer to "lurk" and not post... I've never really understood it, but that's only because I'm a "poster!"

I think that once you've written a TR yourself, you understand how much the author appreciates comments (or even simple "Hello's") from readers and it makes you more inclined to post.

It's a great outlet for those of us who are trying not to drive our family members crazy with daily talk about WDW!! :laughing: As far as I'm concerned, it's never too early to start dreaming of and planning the next trip!!


Kathy

I admit...I'm a lurker :) I just never have anything to say that wasn't already said!!!

I wish I had a response to your question about a bag, but since I'm always on the quest to find the perfect park bag (and it's getting expensive!), I can't really comment. I did finally find a Ful Sling backpack (a small one) that I like, but if you don't like the cross-chest style it wouldn't work for you. I've also gotten the Ameribag Coil Field Pack (http://www.ebags.com/ameribag/coil_field_pack/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=92953&lastterm=ameribag%20coil) which I like, but I've found that this style of bags aggravates my fibromylagia when using it in the parks (though I use it as a regular purse-type bag at home just fine). Good luck with the quest!

[Mavis0426]

I'm clueless as to the reservation window question. :confused:

I know that a lot of TR readers prefer to "lurk" and not post... I've never really understood it, but that's only because I'm a "poster!"

I think that once you've written a TR yourself, you understand how much the author appreciates comments (or even simple "Hello's") from readers and it makes you more inclined to post.

It's a great outlet for those of us who are trying not to drive our family members crazy with daily talk about WDW!! :laughing: As far as I'm concerned, it's never too early to start dreaming of and planning the next trip!!


Kathy


I've always been a "lurker." :cool1:

Have you checked into what activities will be going on during the day at your resort? From last year, it looked liked a couple offered day activities.

DISNEY RESORTS '08

POP CENTURY AND CARIBBEAN BEACH: Candy Apples, Crispy Rice Treats, Candy and Trinkets for guests. Both resorts will host a Halloween costume parade. Pop Century will have face painting and Caribbean Beach will have a viewing of "Sleepy Hollow."

GRAND FLORIDIAN: Pool Party with special music, a dance-off and activities. The afternoon brings a scavenger hunt and beach games. Trick or Treating will be hosted in the guest areas in the evening. A campfire is scheduled from 7:30 - 10:00pm on the beach with a showing of " Haunted Mansion" at 9:45pm.

CONTEMPORARY: Guests are the judge of the Cast Pumpkin Carving Contest. There are "Terrifying Temporary Tattoos" at Noon, a crazy crafts at 1pm, a poolside Haunted Halloween Party at 2pm, a costume contest at 5pm and a showing of "Haunted Mansion" at 8pm.

SARATOGA SPRINGS: Pumpkin painting at 10:30am, scavenger hunt at 12:30pm, Halloween pool party at 2:30pm, "creepy corridor walk-thru" at Community Hall at 6pm and a showing of "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" at 7pm. A candy corn guessing contest takes place throughout the day.

Animal Kingdom Lodge, All Stars, Port Orleans: Cast Member Pumpkin Carvings displayed October 30 - 31

[cjackearl]

I think the ads are placed based upon key words in the text... must be a computer program or something.

But, I'd like to know why there always seems to be a Weight Watchers ad on my reports. You don't think my computer is trying to tell me something, do you?!? :rolleyes1 :lmao:


Kathy

I'm glad its not just me! I was beginning to get a complex.;)

Park bag-sorry, no help. My MIL is letting me borrow her bagallini messenger, so I'm glad to hear its worked for you in the past.

Ok, I'm now on page 43, I'll be all caught up really soon.:thumbsup2

[KathyRN137]

Park bag-sorry, no help. My MIL is letting me borrow her bagallini messenger, so I'm glad to hear its worked for you in the past.



I loved the bagallini messenger! It's a great size and all the compartments are very handy. If they made it as a shoulder bag, I would be so happy! :thumbsup2


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I admit...I'm a lurker :) I just never have anything to say that wasn't already said!!!



Hi! :wave: Thanks for de-lurking! I love your username! pooh: Pooh is my favorite character.

Even if you just say hello, its always fun to hear from readers!

Thanks for the bag suggestion; I'll check it out!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I've always been a "lurker." :cool1:


Animal Kingdom Lodge, All Stars, Port Orleans: Cast Member Pumpkin Carvings displayed October 30 - 31


Hi Mavis! :wave2: Thanks for dropping by!

I did read about the Halloween resort activities. Don't they sound like fun?!

We will definitely be heading over to the lobby in Jambo House to check out those pumpkin carvings! :thumbsup2


Kathy

[winnapooh]

Hi! :wave: Thanks for de-lurking! I love your username! pooh: Pooh is my favorite character.

Even if you just say hello, its always fun to hear from readers!

Thanks for the bag suggestion; I'll check it out!


Kathy

Thanks! Pooh's my favorite too :thumbsup2

We'll be at Jambo this fall, but thinking about Kidani for next year, so I'm excited to hear your opinion of the resort. The early reports are both good and bad, but I'm thinking it's still early, and since the whole resort isn't open yet, that might play into it. We absolutely love Jambo house, so I think it will be hard to tear ourselves away to Kidani next year, but that extra bathroom in the 1 bedroom is hard to beat, especially when we are taking guests!

[mousescrapper]

no sure how much help I can be on the bag...but I like the backsack style.

though I am thinking about a hipster for the next trip.

Aldine's Croc bag was very roomy and had a cell phone pocket but it's across the chest style though.

Can't wait to see what you find!

J-

[mommytothreeboys]

Just popping in to say HI! I'm here, but just started reading....I'll have to pace myself! LOL! :lmao:

[Dreamer & Wisher]

I've always been a "lurker." :cool1:

Have you checked into what activities will be going on during the day at your resort? From last year, it looked liked a couple offered day activities.

DISNEY RESORTS '08

POP CENTURY AND CARIBBEAN BEACH: Candy Apples, Crispy Rice Treats, Candy and Trinkets for guests. Both resorts will host a Halloween costume parade. Pop Century will have face painting and Caribbean Beach will have a viewing of "Sleepy Hollow."

GRAND FLORIDIAN: Pool Party with special music, a dance-off and activities. The afternoon brings a scavenger hunt and beach games. Trick or Treating will be hosted in the guest areas in the evening. A campfire is scheduled from 7:30 - 10:00pm on the beach with a showing of " Haunted Mansion" at 9:45pm.

CONTEMPORARY: Guests are the judge of the Cast Pumpkin Carving Contest. There are "Terrifying Temporary Tattoos" at Noon, a crazy crafts at 1pm, a poolside Haunted Halloween Party at 2pm, a costume contest at 5pm and a showing of "Haunted Mansion" at 8pm.

SARATOGA SPRINGS: Pumpkin painting at 10:30am, scavenger hunt at 12:30pm, Halloween pool party at 2:30pm, "creepy corridor walk-thru" at Community Hall at 6pm and a showing of "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" at 7pm. A candy corn guessing contest takes place throughout the day.

Animal Kingdom Lodge, All Stars, Port Orleans: Cast Member Pumpkin Carvings displayed October 30 - 31
:thumbsup2Thank you for posting this!! I am glad to hear there are activities at the resorts too!:cool1:

[Goofster57]

Sorry Kathy,
No bag suggestions, :confused3 all I have are Coach and I would never take them to the parks.

[Tiresius]

I'm clueless as to the reservation window question. :confused:

I know that a lot of TR readers prefer to "lurk" and not post... I've never really understood it, but that's only because I'm a "poster!"

I think that once you've written a TR yourself, you understand how much the author appreciates comments (or even simple "Hello's") from readers and it makes you more inclined to post.

It's a great outlet for those of us who are trying not to drive our family members crazy with daily talk about WDW!! :laughing: As far as I'm concerned, it's never too early to start dreaming of and planning the next trip!!


Kathy

I'm a long-time lurker. I've been reading along since the Half and Half report, but since I never have anything interesting to contribute, I prefer to just read along. I read your reports nightly (the DIS is the first thing I do when I get home from work), but have never had anything worthwhile to say. So just de-lurking to say I'm here. But I'll go back to my quiet following along now, thanks!:cool2:

[KathyRN137]

no sure how much help I can be on the bag...but I like the backsack style.

though I am thinking about a hipster for the next trip.



I think the hipster is so cute... but it's way too small for my needs! :rolleyes:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Just popping in to say HI! I'm here, but just started reading....I'll have to pace myself! LOL! :lmao:


Glad you're here!

Did you have a nice shower?? :lmao:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

:thumbsup2Thank you for posting this!! I am glad to hear there are activities at the resorts too!:cool1:

I think Mavis got this from the Events section (See above.)

Sometimes I forget that there's a lot more to the DIS than the boards! :chat:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Sorry Kathy,
No bag suggestions, :confused3 all I have are Coach and I would never take them to the parks.


Coach... oh my! :snooty:

But then again, you're so worth it, dah-ling!


http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm69/bluediabolo/goofy.gif



Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I read your reports nightly (the DIS is the first thing I do when I get home from work), but have never had anything worthwhile to say. So just de-lurking to say I'm here. But I'll go back to my quiet following along now, thanks!:cool2:


:laughing: You can't go back now, you're a poster!!! :laughing:

It's always worthwhile to say hello to a fellow Disney parks fan!! :grouphug:


Kathy

[MinnieNurse]

I cant give to much park bag advice. I am a back pack nerd. Its the only way DH and DS will help carry the bag so its worth it to me.

[KathyRN137]

I cant give to much park bag advice. I am a back pack nerd. Its the only way DH and DS will help carry the bag so its worth it to me.

We all share the load (well, except for Billy).

Ed carries a backpack, Tricia carries a small pack, and I have mine.

Kathy

[DearDaisyinDurham]

I used to have a perfect park bag but lost it during a move. :scared1:

Our last trip I made DH carry everything in his pockets, mind you, it was not a lot of stuff. No water bottles or anything. Camera & park tix.

THIS trip, I so want a Vera bag! I saw SO many cute ones last time at WDW! They were everywhere & each one looked great. Now it's a matter of matching the style & pattern. ;)

Maybe I wasn't alot of help but you made me feel better about my bag needs!:rotfl2:

[KathyRN137]

Maybe I wasn't alot of help but you made me feel better about my bag needs!:rotfl2:


I've been looking at various websites for the past half-hour...
I'm beginning to feel bag-challenged... ;)


Kathy

[kimmylaj]

sorry not much bag help... since my hubby says i have been brainwashed by the dis. they told me to get bodyglide...check over the door shoe bag for toiletries...check moleskin....check misty mate fans...check but a lime green baggalini ???? did someone say a lime green nylon purse???? yep...check got that too. and i must say i carried everything i need for myself, dh, ds 5, dd2, yes including spare clothes, diapers, wipes, cups, camera, and video camera along with all the other assorted stuff . lets just say i was not a favorite among those behind me when it was time for the bag check. so unfortunately i have no advice, but good luck in the quest.

[cjackearl]

I've been looking at various websites for the past half-hour...
I'm beginning to feel bag-challenged... ;)


Kathy

Uh oh. You know this is a disease, right? ;)

[KathyRN137]

I'm changing the subject again....

Got to tell you that I finally recieved the 2009 DVC Vacation Planner in the mail today!! http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Smilies/happymail.gif

I know I can get the same info on the website, but I really prefer thumbing through the full-color pages of the book! Guess I'm just "old-school!!" :laughing:


Kathy

[cjackearl]

Yea! Disney mail is truly the best mail.:goodvibes

[brookelizabeth]

I missed the chatter on Kidani versus ASMu - but $145 is WELL worth the hassle I think. When we went from Pop to WL our bags did not come for a looooooooong time, I think it was past 5:00 pm even! Living out of the carry-on was doable, but not ideal.

The idea on using a cab is brilliant. I forget about 'real world' ammenities when I'm in Disney! :rotfl:

I'm not any help with the bag issues, I use a bagallini and love it-but I don't have the lanyard issue-I can see why that would be annoying. Could you put your pins on the strap of the bag instead of on a lanyard?

The DIS Bag Queen is Lady Lallie. She has purchased a zillion bags for Disney and would have some very good advice here. She leaves for Disney tomorrow though-but her PTR goes through several bags and pros/cons!

I think the ads are placed based upon key words in the text... must be a computer program or something.

But, I'd like to know why there always seems to be a Weight Watchers ad on my reports. You don't think my computer is trying to tell me something, do you?!? :rolleyes1 :lmao:

:rotfl2: Glad I'm not alone! I'm a slightly wayward WW member and whenever I see the banners I want to say "YA, I KNOW I HAVEN'T LOGGED MY POINTS!" ;)

I'm changing the subject again....

Got to tell you that I finally recieved the 2009 DVC Vacation Planner in the mail today!! http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Smilies/happymail.gif

I know I can get the same info on the website, but I really prefer thumbing through the full-color pages of the book! Guess I'm just "old-school!!" :laughing:


Kathy


OOOOOOOH! OOOOOH! FINALLY! I am sooooooooo running out the mailbox ASAP! A fellow DISer, Camster(and she has a new numbers after her name too), is in there - a pic of her and her daughters!! :banana:

[brookelizabeth]

Poo.

No planner for me today. Just 2 boring pieces of junk mail.

Which on the bright side means no bills either. :goodvibes

[KathyRN137]

OOOOOOOH! OOOOOH! FINALLY! I am sooooooooo running out the mailbox ASAP! A fellow DISer, Camster(and she has a new numbers after her name too), is in there - a pic of her and her daughters!! :banana:


Awww, I'm sure your planner will be along soon! pixiedust:

I posted on Camster's TR and told her about the planner. She hasn't received hers, either. It'll be fun to see how her daughters react to their "fame!"

I've been meaning to get over to LL's report... perhaps over the long weekend (especially if it rains Saturday.)


Kathy

[moparop]

I have no bag advice for you, but have had the same problems with my Baggalini, so I am looking forward to hear what you buy and how you like. I'm also hoping there will be a post or two dedicated to said bag in the upcoming TR. It's really sad how excited I get about bags. :D

[KathyRN137]

I have no bag advice for you, but have had the same problems with my Baggalini, so I am looking forward to hear what you buy and how you like. I'm also hoping there will be a post or two dedicated to said bag in the upcoming TR. It's really sad how excited I get about bags. :D


I don't blame you... the bag you choose to carry in the parks can really make a difference in your comfort and convenience level. ::yes::

Sorry... couldn't copy/paste the picture, but I found this bag on the QVC website... I'm considering it. The dimensions are the same as the baggalini messenger, but it's a shoulder bag.

Only comes in black, though. meh.



Travelon Flap Front Messenger Bag

QVC Price:
$36.25
Shipping & Handling: $5.97

100% of customers would recommend this product to a friend
Overall Rating 5 out of 5

Description
Designed for a body-hugging fit, even when you lean forward or bend down, this messenger bag offers ample storage with its plentiful pockets and an expansion panel that provides an extra 2-1/2" of space. From Travelon.
Front flap: magnetic closure; two roomy pockets; organizer compartment with four card slots, pen and lipstick loop; travel center with pockets for ID, boarding pass and passport, removable LED light; zippered slash pocket
Main compartment: radius zipper, two slide pockets, zippered mesh pocket
Back panel: zippered slash pocket, external cell phone pocket
Adjustable shoulder strap
Quilted microfiber
Measures 13"H x 11"W x 4"D


Kathy

[cjackearl]

My Vera backpack is black quilted microfibre and its quite pretty. I wish I could see it. How does it hug your body when you bend over?

[tiggerbell]

Here is my bag advice -

I hate things with flaps... and I wear my Baggallini over one shoulder A LOT...


http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43367%3Enu%3D3235%3E588%3E%3A%3A%3B% 3EWSNRCG%3D323564%3A%3A99324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43347%3Enu%3D3235%3E588%3E%3A%3A%3B% 3EWSNRCG%3D323489%3B7%3C8324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43247%3Enu%3D3235%3E588%3E%3A%3A%3B% 3EWSNRCG%3D32348%3A6%3A88324nu0mrj

[KathyRN137]

Here is my bag advice -

I hate things with flaps... and I wear my Baggallini over one shoulder A LOT...



Hey, Jaime!! So good to see you back!!
Cannot wait to read about your "fun on a boat!"

I wore mine on one shoulder, too, but it felt a bit uncomfortable. (Perhaps I carry more stuff than you do 'cuz of Billy.)

If I could get that strap to adjust, I'd be so happy! But since I can't, I'm shopping for a new bag! :sad2:


Kathy

[mom2mek]

I don't know how much help this will be, but I carried an REI Overland Donner bag on our Thanksgiving trip in 2007 and again on our October trip in 2008. It had lots of pockets and worked out really great! (I even got lime green with a cute pattern on the inside). I didn't carry it with me on this last trip, since I didn't have to have as much junk with me - I was able to carry a Vera Bradley hipster that I was given on Mother's Day! :goodvibes

Anyways, here is a pic of the Donner bag - I wore it criss-crossed if I was juggling a lot, but it can also be worn over the shoulder.

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff72/mom2mek/Disney2007_001673.jpg?t=1243024997

(Not the best picture, but you can see it hanging there - my mom was also carrying one in black, but it's harder to see hers). I will look for a better pic.

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff72/mom2mek/Disney2007_001554.jpg?t=1243025145
(here's another one - the strap is adjustable so you could wear it over your shoulder like a regular purse if you wanted).

Sara

[mom2mek]

I knew the minute I posted those, I would find the stock pic....here it is.

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff72/mom2mek/overland.jpg?t=1243025306
Sara

[mousescrapper]

I knew the minute I posted those, I would find the stock pic....here it is.

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff72/mom2mek/overland.jpg?t=1243025306
Sara

that looks like a nice bag.....


OK KATHY>>>>

this bag discussion is going to get dangerous soon....;)

your QVC bag description sounds nice I like the magnetic front flap!

[Halloweenqueen]

I just make my husband carry a backpack. :thumbsup2 :cool1:

[jcc0621]

Travelon Flap Front Messenger Bag

QVC Price:
$36.25
Shipping & Handling: $5.97

100% of customers would recommend this product to a friend
Overall Rating 5 out of 5

Description
Designed for a body-hugging fit, even when you lean forward or bend down, this messenger bag offers ample storage with its plentiful pockets and an expansion panel that provides an extra 2-1/2" of space. From Travelon.
Front flap: magnetic closure; two roomy pockets; organizer compartment with four card slots, pen and lipstick loop; travel center with pockets for ID, boarding pass and passport, removable LED light; zippered slash pocket
Main compartment: radius zipper, two slide pockets, zippered mesh pocket
Back panel: zippered slash pocket, external cell phone pocket
Adjustable shoulder strap
Quilted microfiber
Measures 13"H x 11"W x 4"D


Kathy

Love Travelon. I have a nother of thier bags, much smaller that was great when I didn't have kids:rolleyes: Need to check out the messenger bag. My birthday is coming up...::yes::

[cjackearl]

Hi Kathy! I found a picture of your bag. It's tres cute. E-bags is running a sale, today only, 20% off, so the bag is 31.99, shipping is 7.95, so 39.94 total. You could save a couple bucks at least, and return shipping is free if you don't like it. Hope you find a bag you love.:love:

[MinnieNurse]

I just make my husband carry a backpack. :thumbsup2 :cool1:

Me too!;)

[KathyRN137]

I don't know how much help this will be, but I carried an REI Overland Donner bag on our Thanksgiving trip in 2007 and again on our October trip in 2008. It had lots of pockets and worked out really great! (I even got lime green with a cute pattern on the inside).
I wore it criss-crossed if I was juggling a lot, but it can also be worn over the shoulder.

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff72/mom2mek/Disney2007_001554.jpg?t=1243025145

(here's another one - the strap is adjustable so you could wear it over your shoulder like a regular purse if you wanted).

Sara

that looks like a nice bag.....

your QVC bag description sounds nice I like the magnetic front flap!

Love Travelon. I have a nother of thier bags, much smaller that was great when I didn't have kids:rolleyes: Need to check out the messenger bag. My birthday is coming up...::yes::


I do like the look of that Donner bag...

Here's a link to a picture of the Travelon bag...
http://www.travelonbags.com/pages/XXXXX/2100/2143.html


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I just make my husband carry a backpack. :thumbsup2 :cool1:


Queenie, the sad thing is that Ed does carry his own backpack! Perhaps its b/c of the time of year (Nov.) but we need room for extra shirts or a sweatshirt for everyone...plus I need a change of clothes for Billy "just in case...in addition to all my stuff!!

Even Tricia carries a small backpack for her things.

I just don't like wearing a backpack b/c its so awkward getting on and off the rides...and it can be tough to store a big bag under the seat.


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Hi Kathy! I found a picture of your bag. It's tres cute. E-bags is running a sale, today only, 20% off, so the bag is 31.99, shipping is 7.95, so 39.94 total. You could save a couple bucks at least, and return shipping is free if you don't like it. Hope you find a bag you love.:love:


Hmmm. I didn't see it when I looked on e-bags the other day.
Thanks! I'll check it out!

But... now I kind of like the Donner one too! :rolleyes:


Kathy

[DisMomAmy]

I always have bag issues. 2006 and before, I always went with the fanny pack. Last year I bought a baggallini - it lasted a day or so and I had to buy a fanny pack because I hadn't brought one along. This year I had my new Vera hipster. I used it for the first day and a half then my shoulders hurt (actually my collar bones hurt) so I went back to the old stand by - the ugly fanny pack! :headache: Nothing else is as comfortable for me... After two days of that I was able to switch back to Vera and I was fine - sometimes I did the across the body thing and other times I did the over the shoulder thing. I think my heavy camera may have contributed to my problem this year. When I switched back to the Vera later in the week I made sure to pack it much lighter.

I understand that backpacks aren't the most convenient - especially since I change between my regular glasses and sunglasses frequently all day long - but I'm wondering if a backpack may be the way to go for me in the future... :confused3

[moparop]

Hmmm. I didn't see it when I looked on e-bags the other day.
Thanks! I'll check it out!

But... now I kind of like the Donner one too! :rolleyes:


Kathy

I was going to link you to the ebags sale, but it looks like someone beat me to the punch. That Donner bag is kickin too! I think you need to get both and alternate days while you are there. In the name of Market research for me of course! :lmao:

[nu2wdisneyw]

I am so glad that it worked out so you don't have to change resorts!!! And for only $145!!
I wish I could help with the bag situation...I think am am going to get a baggalini.
Disney mail is so fun...I enjoy having physical information as opposed to the net too!!

[KathyRN137]

I understand that backpacks aren't the most convenient... but I'm wondering if a backpack may be the way to go for me in the future... :confused3


The sling-style backpack that Ed carries is actually the bag I carried on a previous trip, then decided I didn't like because of the way it rubbed on my shoulder and bra strap. (Sorry for TMI!)

But he thinks it's perfect for him, so at least the purchase wasn't a waste. :thumbsup2



I was going to link you to the ebags sale, but it looks like someone beat me to the punch. That Donner bag is kickin too! I think you need to get both and alternate days while you are there. In the name of Market research for me of course! :lmao:



:rotfl2: Great idea! Now if only my budget could support the research!!





I wish I could help with the bag situation...I think am am going to get a baggalini.


I would be quite content with my baggalini were it not for my lanyard and pins situation! Hope you enjoy yours!


Kathy

[MinnieNurse]

Hey Kathy,

I just found this thread for nurses and thought you might want to hop over and take a peep. Maybe give the new nurses and nurses to be a little of your knowledge as well.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2178389

[HappyPeach]

I'm glad to have found your post. I'll be at WDW a month earlier than you. You inspired me to make my ressies for the MNSSHP. Thank you! Also, that donner bag is discounted for 2 discontinued colors on ebags.com.:)

[KathyRN137]

Hey Kathy,

I just found this thread for nurses and thought you might want to hop over and take a peep. Maybe give the new nurses and nurses to be a little of your knowledge as well.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2178389


Great! There's a lot of "us" who love Disney!! Thanks!



I'm glad to have found your post. I'll be at WDW a month earlier than you. You inspired me to make my ressies for the MNSSHP. Thank you! Also, that donner bag is discounted for 2 discontinued colors on ebags.com.:)


So glad you could join me in the planning! I think you will love the MNSSHP... the after-hours parties are great! We've done the Christmas Party and the Pirate & Princess Party, so I know how much fun they can be!!

Thanks for the bag info... I'm still undecided. I found another Overland Equipment bag I'm interested in that's a bit bigger than the travelon and the Donner bags....

http://www.ebags.com/overland_equipment/carmel_shoulder_bag_discontinued_colors/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=125543


I guess that the more you look, the more you find!! :laughing:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

We're Havin' a Party!! party:


I was on the phone with DSis Eileen, mom to DNiece Catie who will be joining us on our trip this year, and we were thinking it might be fun to have a little "party" for the girls when we reach double digits, or 99 days 'til Disney!!

That should be July 22, if I'm not mistaken.

I figure we can make Disney foods, use Disney-themed partyware, play some Disney games and use the occasion to pre-plan for the trip. I'd also like to really talk over some of the nitty-gritty and make sure that Dsis and I are on the same page when it comes to all the parenting stuff... rules... discipline... stuff I probably won't need, but will want to have talked out ahead of time just in case. Good to have it all out on the table with both girls and both sets of parents!

(But really, I just want an excuse to have a party and talk a lot about Disney!!) :rotfl:


Kathy

[mom2mek]

Woo-hoo! Gotta love a Disney party! Great idea to get all that "parenting" stuff on the table too! :thumbsup2

Allears has so many of the Disney food recipes! I'm meeting some DIS friends for a girls trip to the mountains in a couple of weeks, and we are doing a Disney food night one of the nights! They have cheddar cheese soup, the cornbread from the HDDR, Pina Colavas, even the Main St Bakery Chocolate Chunk Cookies! Yummo! :love:

Sara

[KathyRN137]

Woo-hoo! Gotta love a Disney party! Great idea to get all that "parenting" stuff on the table too! :thumbsup2

Allears has so many of the Disney food recipes!


Oooh, thanks! I will definitely look them up! :thumbsup2


Kathy

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, a Disney party sounds like lots of fun!!!

[cjackearl]

A Disney par-tay sounds like tons 'o fun!!:dance3: Ya-hooey!!

[Hedy]

Sounds like fun to me!

[MinnieNurse]

We're Havin' a Party!! party:


I was on the phone with DSis Eileen, mom to DNiece Catie who will be joining us on our trip this year, and we were thinking it might be fun to have a little "party" for the girls when we reach double digits, or 99 days 'til Disney!!

That should be July 22, if I'm not mistaken.

I figure we can make Disney foods, use Disney-themed partyware, play some Disney games and use the occasion to pre-plan for the trip. I'd also like to really talk over some of the nitty-gritty and make sure that Dsis and I are on the same page when it comes to all the parenting stuff... rules... discipline... stuff I probably won't need, but will want to have talked out ahead of time just in case. Good to have it all out on the table with both girls and both sets of parents!

(But really, I just want an excuse to have a party and talk a lot about Disney!!) :rotfl:


Kathy


I think that is an awesome idea and will help the time go by, I would even make it a costume party so you can prepare for your Halloween at Disney. You will be able to have a lot of fun with this party.:woohoo:

[DisMomAmy]

What a great idea!! Can I come?

[moparop]

I LOVE Disney parties!! MeMom/Brooklynsmom throw a few a year and have so many great ideas in their TRs. They always have cool themed food and fun games.

I agree that you and your sis need to hash everything out especially with two teenagers along. I'm sure they'll try everything they can to get upper hand!

[Dreamer & Wisher]

Oh that party sounds like fun!

Make some Mickey Head rice krispy treats with chocolate ears!!

party:

[mousescrapper]

Sounds like a fun! Disney pre-party....

don't forget some music to set the mood...maybe even some pre-Halloween toons....Grim-grinning Ghosts come to mind :hmghost:

[KathyRN137]

Oh, a Disney party sounds like lots of fun!!!

A Disney par-tay sounds like tons 'o fun!!:dance3: Ya-hooey!!

Sounds like fun to me!

I think that is an awesome idea and will help the time go by, I would even make it a costume party so you can prepare for your Halloween at Disney. You will be able to have a lot of fun with this party.:woohoo:

What a great idea!! Can I come?

I LOVE Disney parties!! MeMom/Brooklynsmom throw a few a year and have so many great ideas in their TRs. They always have cool themed food and fun games.



Oh that party sounds like fun!

Make some Mickey Head rice krispy treats with chocolate ears!!





Thanks for the ideas! Tricia is into having a party too, but it's probably just going to be "us", not a big shin-dig.

There's some cute summer party ware on sale on the Disney Store website... I may get it since disposable paper party goods would only get used once and these would get good use all summer!!


http://www.disneystore.com/home-dcor/kitchen-dinnerware/entertaining/c/59535/




Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Sounds like a fun! Disney pre-party....

don't forget some music to set the mood...maybe even some pre-Halloween toons....Grim-grinning Ghosts come to mind :hmghost:


LOL, I've got lots of Theme Park Music!! :music:
I try to buy one new WDW CD every time we visit.


Kathy

[Goofster57]

:moped:

just Scotting through

Kathy,
I just noticed your Blue-Line logo, I like that.:thumbsup2

Is it new?

[KathyRN137]

:moped:

just Scotting through

Kathy,
I just noticed your Blue-Line logo, I like that.:thumbsup2

Is it new?


Hi Goof!! :goofy:

Thank you. It is the newest "addition" to my ever-growing signature!! It sometimes gets cut off, however, when the screen isn't maximized.

(In case anyone was wondering, the The Thin Blue Line symbol honors fallen police officers.)

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Well, the e-bags online sale ends tonight at midnight, so I decided to take the plunge and order a new parks bag! I figure that at 43% off, I can afford to try one out!

I chose the Overland Equipment Carmel Bag:

http://www.ebags.com/overland_equipment/carmel_shoulder_bag_discontinued_colors/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=125543

This can be worn over one shoulder. Hopefully it will not be too big!


Kathy

[cjackearl]

There's a winner!:woohoo: What color did you choose?

[Hedy]

Hi Goof!! :goofy:

Thank you. It is the newest "addition" to my ever-growing signature!! It sometimes gets cut off, however, when the screen isn't maximized.

(In case anyone was wondering, the The Thin Blue Line symbol honors fallen police officers.)

Kathy

I was wondering actually-thanks!

[Dreamer & Wisher]

I love the new bag!! Very cute.

[KathyRN137]

I love the new bag!! Very cute.

There's a winner!:woohoo: What color did you choose?


Thanks! I can't wait for it to arrive!

As you can see, there wasn't a huge selection of discontinued colors (hence the sale). I chose the green.

I almost chose the black, but that would be much to dark to wear with what I wear at WDW! (I sure hope it doesn't "clash" with my shoes!!) :laughing:

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I was wondering actually-thanks!

Grumpy 160 says:

The "thin blue line" is the symbol used to describe police officers; the thin line between anarchy and civilization... between fear and safety.



This is the symbol of the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington DC which honors fallen law enforcement officers:


http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/bb258/jberry2324/NationalLawEnforcementOfficersMemor.jpg



Kathy

[moparop]

Love the new bag!! I can't wait to hear park reviews!

[mom2mek]

Nice choice, Kathy! :goodvibes At least getting it early, you will be able to give it a few trial runs!! :thumbsup2

Sara

[brookelizabeth]

Awww, I'm sure your planner will be along soon! pixiedust:

I posted on Camster's TR and told her about the planner. She hasn't received hers, either. It'll be fun to see how her daughters react to their "fame!"

I've been meaning to get over to LL's report... perhaps over the long weekend (especially if it rains Saturday.)


Kathy

I was gone all weekend and no planner yet! :sad2: Maybe tomorrow! :goodvibes

A 99 day Disney Party sounds like a very fun and GREAT idea. And your new bag looks like it will be a good one. Does eBags allow you to return it if it doesn't work out?

[IluvXU]

Nice park bag... hope it is "the one."

[KathyRN137]

I was gone all weekend and no planner yet! :sad2: Maybe tomorrow! :goodvibes

A 99 day Disney Party sounds like a very fun and GREAT idea. And your new bag looks like it will be a good one. Does eBags allow you to return it if it doesn't work out?


Awww. :headache: Hope you had fun!!
Yes, I can always return it if I don't care for it...



Nice park bag... hope it is "the one."


Thanks! I wish I was packing it now!! :laughing:
Oooh, your June trip is coming up so fast now!!!


Kathy

[mousescrapper]

I try to buy one new WDW CD every time we visit.




I so need some of those.....next year WISH LIST!


(In case anyone was wondering, the The Thin Blue Line symbol honors fallen police officers.)



thanks...I wondered too.:angel:


I chose the green.

I knew it!!!!!!



J-

[nu2wdisneyw]

YAY!!! A bag has been chosen! :)

[MinnieNurse]

:thumbsup2Love the bag and the green looks like the perfect Dis lime green!!

What time do you want us at your house for the party?:dance3:

[KathyRN137]

I so need some of those.....next year WISH LIST!



I really want to get the Hallowishes CD!!

Today I was listening to "Magic in the Streets"... all the parks' parade music. (Share a Dream Come True, Stars and Motor Cars, Jammin' Jungle Parade... even the old Tapestry of Dreams from Epcot!) I think I picked that one up in '06 or '07.

Boy, that really gets you in the WDW mood! pixiedust:


YAY!!! A bag has been chosen! :)


I will post on it as soon as it arrives! :thumbsup2


:thumbsup2Love the bag and the green looks like the perfect Dis lime green!!

What time do you want us at your house for the party?:dance3:


LOL! :laughing: Wouldn't it be fun to all get together like that for a DIS Party Meet?? We'd have the best time! party:


Kathy

[All7OfUs]

LOL! :laughing: Wouldn't it be fun to all get together like that for a DIS Party Meet?? We'd have the best time! party:


Kathy

I got it, we could all meet up in Blank-a-stan for our party time! I'd be happy to host :rotfl2: We could cook up some Tonga Toast, and drool over each other's bags. Oh wait, we'd need bigger bags.... I guess I'll just have to plan a time to get back to where you all are. Let's say, hmmm.... Sept, 2010. Anyone up for a trip to the real meeting place??

[KathyRN137]

I'm just taking a little commercial break from watching an "Oldie-But-A-Goodie" on Family Channel...

... the Full House episode where the Tanner Family visits WDW!! :goodvibes


So much fun! What a blast from the past!!

Ahh, it was so romantic when Danny asked Vicky to marry him at the Castle during the fireworks!! I'm such a marshmallow!


Kathy

[mom2mek]

I'm just taking a little commercial break from watching an "Oldie-But-A-Goodie" on Family Channel...

... the Full House episode where the Tanner Family visits WDW!! :goodvibes


So much fun! What a blast from the past!!

Ahh, it was so romantic when Danny asked Vicky to marry him at the Castle during the fireworks!! I'm such a marshmallow!


Kathy

Oh, I loved that episode with the "Danny Tanner Clipboard of Fun!" :rotfl2:

Sara

[MinnieNurse]

I'm just taking a little commercial break from watching an "Oldie-But-A-Goodie" on Family Channel...

... the Full House episode where the Tanner Family visits WDW!! :goodvibes


So much fun! What a blast from the past!!

Ahh, it was so romantic when Danny asked Vicky to marry him at the Castle during the fireworks!! I'm such a marshmallow!


Kathy

Oh, I love full house. I dont think I ever saw that episode. Now I want to see it. :sad2:

[cjackearl]

I'm just taking a little commercial break from watching an "Oldie-But-A-Goodie" on Family Channel...

... the Full House episode where the Tanner Family visits WDW!! :goodvibes


So much fun! What a blast from the past!!

Ahh, it was so romantic when Danny asked Vicky to marry him at the Castle during the fireworks!! I'm such a marshmallow!


Kathy

Does DJ's boyfriend fly down to WDW in that one?

[KathyRN137]

Oh, I loved that episode with the "Danny Tanner Clipboard of Fun!" :rotfl2:

Sara


Ha! Clipboard! Now, if he wasn't a "binder person," I don't know who would be! :lmao:


Oh, I love full house. I dont think I ever saw that episode. Now I want to see it. :sad2:


Here is a website that lists all scheduled WDW-related TV shows each week! :thumbsup2 I'm sure it will be shown again!

http://www.bartlett-sloan.net/tv/agenda.php3?modeagenda=soon

Does DJ's boyfriend fly down to WDW in that one?

Yes! (And just happens to check in last minute at the Grand Floridian!!) :laughing: Yeah, like an 18 yr old kid could afford it!!


Kathy

[brookelizabeth]

I'm just taking a little commercial break from watching an "Oldie-But-A-Goodie" on Family Channel...

... the Full House episode where the Tanner Family visits WDW!! :goodvibes


So much fun! What a blast from the past!!

Ahh, it was so romantic when Danny asked Vicky to marry him at the Castle during the fireworks!! I'm such a marshmallow!


Kathy

I have never seen that one!
I would agree, very romantic spot Danny! :laughing:


Here is a website that lists all scheduled WDW-related TV shows each week! :thumbsup2 I'm sure it will be shown again!

http://www.bartlett-sloan.net/tv/agenda.php3?modeagenda=soon


Wow, that is awesome. Thanks for sharing it!

[KathyRN137]

Brook,

I love the new Henry pictures in your siggie... what a riot those motorcycle ones are!! :rotfl:


Kathy

[melk]

We were recently at the Grand Floridian for the afternoon tea and my girls said that the lobby looked familiar. I said "Don't you remember, this is where Uncle Jesse serenaded Becky on the piano?" My girls chuckled, immediately getting the Full House reference, my husband just rolled his eyes! :rolleyes:

[KathyRN137]

We were recently at the Grand Floridian for the afternoon tea and my girls said that the lobby looked familiar. I said "Don't you remember, this is where Uncle Jesse serenaded Becky on the piano?" My girls chuckled, immediately getting the Full House reference, my husband just rolled his eyes! :rolleyes:

Mmmm. That part was very romantic, too! :goodvibes


Kathy

[tiggerbell]

I recently had to talk Meg out of eating at Coral Reef - she wouldn't like the food - but wanted to go there because Full House ate in this restaurant!

[KathyRN137]

I recently had to talk Meg out of eating at Coral Reef - she wouldn't like the food - but wanted to go there because Full House ate in this restaurant!

:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:

That was such a great show! And I can see it really made an impression on so many of our kids!!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

A Party With Lots of Character!!


Someone asked me (on my April TR) if Captain Jack Sparrow was having a meet and greet during the MNSSHP. Unfortunately, he isn't, but there are so many charaters who will be available during the party that are not the every-day ones you typically meet in the parks! (Or, at least those that I haven't met yet!)

We don't do as many character stops now that the kids are older, but there are a few (highlighted below) that I think will really be worth meeting, mostly because they are so uncommon except for parades...



Villian's Mix & Mingle - Jafar, Malificent, Cruela DeVille, The Wicked Queen, Captain Hook, The Queen of Hearts, and Judge Claude Frollo take center stage in a Halloween production. After the show, they come down to pose for pictures. 7:45, 9:00, 10;05 and 11:15 p.m.



Character Meet and Greets:

* MANY Villains at Castle Forecourt
* Mickey at Mickey's House
* Donald at Donald's Boat
* Goofy at Barnstormer
* Daisy, Minnie, Pluto, Chip, Dale, Tigger, Pooh, Cinderella, Aurora, Snow White, Belle at Toontown Town Hall gift shop
* Little Einsteins at Toontown Train station
* Aladdin & Jasmine at Magic Carpets of Aladdin
* Peter Pan and Wendy at Pirates of the Carribbean
* Ariel at Ariel's Grotto
* 7 Dwarfs across from Mrs. Potts' Cupboard
* Eeyore & Piglet at Pooh's Playful Spot
* Goliath the Gargoyle behind Cinderella Castle
* Tweedledee & Tweedledum at Mad Tea Party
* Br'er Bear & Br'er Rabbit at Big Thunder Mountain
* Woody & Jessie at Diamond Horseshoe Saloon
* Merlin at Storytime w/ Belle Theater
* Buzz Lightyear at Timekeeper
* Stitch at Cosmic Ray's
* Terk, Tarzan, Baloo, Rafiki, King Louie at Adventureland Treat Trail
* Alice, Mad Hatter, Queen of Hearts, Mr. Walrus, White Rabbit at Alice & Mad Hatter's Treat Trail


*************************


A few years back I saw Horace Horsecollar and Clarabelle Cow out at the MK, but they went for a break before I could meet them. :rolleyes: Wish I could've done that!!


Kathy

[cjackearl]

Fun update. Do your kids have any favorites that they still enjoy meeting?

[Beka]

I need to start another PTR like I need a hole in my head (I have some kind of nursing test every Monday in June!), but here I am!

[KathyRN137]

Fun update. Do your kids have any favorites that they still enjoy meeting?


We rarely stop for characters in the parks anymore :sad1: The kids are more interested in rides and shows now (especially Tricia.) But, we always do a few character meals.

Billy is especially fond of Play 'n Dine at Hollywood & Vine... He loves the Little Einsteins (still!) And for me, no trip would be complete without meeting Pooh and friends at the Crystal Palace! pooh:


I need to start another PTR like I need a hole in my head (I have some kind of nursing test every Monday in June!), but here I am!


Sorry!! :hug:

Chew hard candy during your exams... glucose helps those messages across the neural synapses! ;)

It's true!!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

More Musings on Characters...

I would like to see the fairies at Pixie Hollow if we can... not sure if the "big girls" will love or hate that idea...

In addition to all the "special" characters (Villans!) available at the MNSSHP in the MK, there are a few others at the DS that I haven't met, and would like to: Mike and Sully (Monster's INC.) and Carl, Russel and Dug (The movie,Up.)

*Hopefully we'll see this movie this weekend...Billy has really been looking forward to it!*


Have any of you met any unusual (rare) characters at Disney over the years??


Kathy

[MRYPPNS]

MK 1984

Smee and Goofy are not rare but these pictures are from before characters had handlers with them.

Sometimes you got a picture by yourself:
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee109/MRYPPNS/1984%20Disney/81308010.jpg

(Yes those are Foster Grant sunglasses!)

And sometimes you didn't:
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee109/MRYPPNS/1984%20Disney/Copyof81308009.jpg

(And Yes Goofy is holding on to that child's "leash")

This is a picture of the mascot that they had at Sea World in 1984.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee109/MRYPPNS/1984%20Disney/Copyof81308016-1.jpg

[cjackearl]

It'll be interesting to see what Trish and Caity do with the characters. Teenaged girls are funny. They may surprise you and think that meeting the characters is just silly enough to be fun.:thumbsup2

Ok, I'm on page 50(?) and I want to comment on what I've read so far. First, you are an amazing mom. Watching our children face challenges is so hard for us as mother's. We want our children's paths to be easy, but there are always bumps. What a great guide you are on Billy's journey, allowing for the challenges he will face but steering him toward his easiest path.:thumbsup2

Wow, The Little Mermaid sure looked fantastic. I haven't been to NYC since 1988. My mom took me for my HS graduation present. We saw Les Miserables and Into the Woods. I'd love to take my kids someday.:)

Kidani looks beautiful.:cloud9: I'm sure you'll love it. We're having dinner at Sanaa now and I'm planning on doing some meandering while we're there.

Ok, attempting to catch up now.

[KathyRN137]

MK 1984

Smee and Goofy are not rare but these pictures are from before characters had handlers with them.

Sometimes you got a picture by yourself:
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee109/MRYPPNS/1984%20Disney/81308010.jpg

(Yes those are Foster Grant sunglasses!)

And sometimes you didn't:
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee109/MRYPPNS/1984%20Disney/Copyof81308009.jpg

(And Yes Goofy is holding on to that child's "leash")

This is a picture of the mascot that they had at Sea World in 1984.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee109/MRYPPNS/1984%20Disney/Copyof81308016-1.jpg


I LOVE IT!!! (You are a brave woman!!!) :lmao:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Teenaged girls are funny....

Ok, I'm on page 50(?) and I want to comment on what I've read so far.....




Oh, they can be that!! :rolleyes:

(How on earth did this PTR get so long??? I didn't think I talked that much!!)

And thank you for the lovely compliments... you are very kind! :hug:


Kathy

[Charleston Princess]

Chelsea isn't really into meeting characters anymore, but she is very excited to meet Tinker Bell. Hopefully your girls will want to meet the fairies as well.

I laughed when I saw your character pics from years ago -- I remember the days before character handlers only too well -- there is a classic photo of me with Mickey Mouse and another boy when I was about five. :laughing:

[mrsksomeday]

Hi Kathy!! I have a pic of Bill with Clarabelle somewhere. We loved the meet and greets at MNSSHP. My favorites are these:

Snow White with all Seven Dwarves:

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm243/mrskenchanted/10-08%20WDW%20Trip/4th%20day/WDW10-08422.jpg

And Amy and Bill with Cruella:

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm243/mrskenchanted/10-08%20WDW%20Trip/4th%20day/WDW10-08555.jpg


http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm243/mrskenchanted/10-08%20WDW%20Trip/4th%20day/th_WDW10-08556.jpg (http://s298.photobucket.com/albums/mm243/mrskenchanted/10-08%20WDW%20Trip/4th%20day/?action=view&current=WDW10-08556.flv)

(I hope you go to see Up, we loved it. I bet you can tell that by my avatar and the new ticker I made though. There are some sad parts and a little blood.)

[jordanyosh]

i didn't know you had a PTR......

[mrsksomeday]

That's what happens Jordan when you run off to a foreign country, then work like crazy, then have your appendix almost kill you, you miss things :hug:.

[preschoolmom]

We saw Up today! Our girls' first movie in a theatre :lovestruc

We all really enjoyed it!

I bet you guys will love it!

[KathyRN137]

I laughed when I saw your character pics from years ago -- I remember the days before character handlers only too well --


I cannot take credit for those great pix... they are MRPPNS' !

Unfortunately, my first visit to WDW wasn't until 2003.


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Hi Kathy!! I have a pic of Bill with Clarabelle somewhere. We loved the meet and greets at MNSSHP. My favorites are these:

Snow White with all Seven Dwarves:

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm243/mrskenchanted/10-08%20WDW%20Trip/4th%20day/WDW10-08422.jpg

And Amy and Bill with Cruella:

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm243/mrskenchanted/10-08%20WDW%20Trip/4th%20day/WDW10-08555.jpg



Oh yes, I definitely have to meet the seven dwarves!!! :yay:

Cruella is such a card! I think if I was a CM playing a character I would want to be a Villian because it would be such fun!!!

Tracy, you'll get to pose with Santa on your next trip!! Lots of Santas actually, if you count the characters from Holidays Around the World!!


Kathy

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

We saw Up today! Our girls' first movie in a theatre :lovestruc

We all really enjoyed it!

I bet you guys will love it!


Oh... there first movie theater movie! That's so special!
Mine was The Aristocats!!




I hope you go to see Up, we loved it. I bet you can tell that by my avatar and the new ticker I made though....


Billy has been working toward "earning" the movie Up all month! (His class uses a token economy system to reinforce behavior goals.) He had been counting down to the release date for almost two months!! :rolleyes:

His teacher sent home a note Friday telling me that he definitely was motivated!! :laughing: (And that he earned his treat!)

We didn't go Friday (opening day) only because Tricia was home sick with a cold. She'll be all better by tomorrow, so we'll go then. I'm looking forward to it, too!!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

i didn't know you had a PTR......

That's what happens Jordan when you run off to a foreign country, then work like crazy, then have your appendix almost kill you, you miss things :hug:.


Yeah... what she said!! :laughing:

You'd better get cracking, Jordan, you've got a whole lotta catching up to do!


Kathy

[MinnieNurse]

Hey Kathy just dropping in to see what you are up to. :wave2:

I would love to meet Snow White with all 7 dwarfs (my favorite princess). I guess that is another reason to go the the MNSSHP, I have heard that is the place to see them. Take pictures for me!

Lance wants to go see Up also. We are going to a water park this week so think I will save it for later. I have to keep him busy once school is out. I work from home so I have to take him out every so often to keep him from going crazy in the house all summer.

[eandesmom]

Just catching up. great info on all the sightings during Halloween....if I can only convince DH we need to go then. Not. LOL! Congrats on finding a bag....did it arrive yet?

[Beka]

Chew hard candy during your exams... glucose helps those messages across the neural synapses! ;)

It's true!!


Kathy

I've always said that cookies & brownies make you smart! I was proven right when learning about diabetes, that Type 1 patients may feel foggy or whatever b/c they're not getting the glucose they need to their brains! (Well, I learned this in nutrition too, but yeah, it's not been reinforced.)



*Hopefully we'll see this movie this weekend...Billy has really been looking forward to it!*



Kathy

'K, you gotta head to my PTR later today, cuz I'm posting some REALLY cool stuff about UP!!!! I'm working on getting it posted right now!

[joy13]

Ok - Kathy I am only on page 34 of your report (I plan to be caught up by the end of the day :) ) but I am to the page where you are discussing restaurants. We are going to go to Biergarten as well. When I was young my family went to Canada on vacation and we went to a German restaurant for dinner and I had so much fun there. I think Biergarten will be the same type of place - lots of music and dancing!

[KathyRN137]

I would love to meet Snow White with all 7 dwarfs (my favorite princess). I guess that is another reason to go the the MNSSHP, I have heard that is the place to see them. Take pictures for me!



Oh, there will be lots 'o pix... Tricia is already jonesing for a camera of her own!



Just catching up. great info on all the sightings during Halloween....if I can only convince DH we need to go then. Not. LOL! Congrats on finding a bag....did it arrive yet?


No bag yet... ETA is 6/3...

We really lucked out that Jersey Week was so early this year. We've always missed Halloween in the past!



'K, you gotta head to my PTR later today, cuz I'm posting some REALLY cool stuff about UP!!!! I'm working on getting it posted right now!


I did read it; and it was really cool! Thanks! I love finding out trivia about movies before I see them!


... I am to the page where you are discussing restaurants. We are going to go to Biergarten as well. I think Biergarten will be the same type of place - lots of music and dancing!


If DNeice really wants to go, then I will, even though the food doesn't sound too appealling to me. But, its a buffet, so I should be able to find something! And of course, there's always the desserts... :rolleyes1

As long as there is mac 'n cheese for Billy, he'll be set! I think the kids will really enjoy the oompah band! And it's always good to try something new each trip!


Kathy

[joy13]

Yep. My planning is at a stand still, too. I have it in excel, all subject to park hours...

We're only doing two ADRs this trip (in an attempt not to be tied to ADRs every day, and the dining plan...). We are planning for one MNSSHP, preferably our first night (Sunday the 25th), but that all depends on if tickets sell out before we are 100% sure this trip is a go (I think we'll be fine).

Also, airfare is so cheap right now, we're considering flying instead of driving :eek: Which we never have with the kids... So that might change our dates a tiny bit, too (and then, without a car to bring all our food, we might cave and do the meal plan... Oh, I don't know, LOL)...

We are getting in the same day (though we don't get in until late on the 25th so I am planning on the 27th party. How fun! I don't think you'll have to worry about the tickets selling out - if they sell out it won't be until September or so.

[joy13]

Well, I did post on the DVC Rent/Trade board, but while I was waiting for my thread to be approved (it has to be written in the correct format), I decided to call Member Services just to see if that Friday night was even available!

Turns out that it was.

Also turns out that my figures were very wrong and the cost of the one-bedroom, savanna view, with the DVC member discount was much less than I originally thought! :yay:

It would not cost $400 more than ASMu, it would cost "only" $145 more!!!

I considered the question that my friend, Maroo, raised: How much is your time with your family at WDW worth? And I decided that YES, it WAS worth $145 to settle into Kidani and not have to bother packing up and moving the next day, then waiting until after 4pm to get into our room when we had MNSSHP tickets for that night burning holes in our pockets!!

So.... I booked the Friday night at Kidani and cancelled the ASMu ressie!!!

I know that Ed will be so happy... this is a VACATION after all, and the less complicated I can make it, the better!! :goodvibes

Now we can sleep in... explore the resort... swim in that amazing pool.... and still have lots of time to change into our costumes and get over to the MK early for the party!!

Whaddya think??

Kathy


I know I'm behind, but I just had to post that this is perfect :thumbsup2 $145 is so worth it!:thumbsup2 Of course since I'm behind, we'll see if anything changes ;)

[Hedy]

Ooh, I'm looking forward to Tricia's pics-Mordie and Ferdie got some great pics last year (and some of their dad's butt, but hopefully Tricia will avoid that). :rotfl::rotfl:

[joy13]

Phew! I made it through!!! I love the bag. I have always been a fanny pack nerd at Disney - but I got a bag (similar to a bagalinni) for this trip because we won't have the stroller as much to shove stuff in (I am going to take it for later nights - but don't plan on taking it everytime we go to the park).

[DisMomAmy]

We have such a hard time waiting in lines for characters that most of our character meets have been at character meals. We stumbled across a couple characters without lines during our most recent trip, but I can only think of 2 or 3 characters that we have actually waited in line to see. We should have taken advantage of the characters at MNSSHP in 07 but that was the furthest thing from our minds at the time. I hope you guys get to meet lots of new characters!

[KathyRN137]

I know I'm behind, but I just had to post that this is perfect :thumbsup2 $145 is so worth it!:thumbsup2 Of course since I'm behind, we'll see if anything changes ;)

Nothing's changed; we're still going to be at Kidani Village the entire time!! :goodvibes


Ooh, I'm looking forward to Tricia's pics-Mordie and Ferdie got some great pics last year (and some of their dad's butt, but hopefully Tricia will avoid that). :rotfl::rotfl:


I don't know if we can get a new digital camera... she may just have to deal with a bunch of disposables for now. Good thing is, you can get some that are water-resistant. I won't mind using them at the pool and really, who would steal a disposable camera?? :laughing:


Phew! I made it through!!! I love the bag. I have always been a fanny pack nerd at Disney - but I got a bag (similar to a bagalinni) for this trip because we won't have the stroller as much to shove stuff in (I am going to take it for later nights - but don't plan on taking it everytime we go to the park).


I'm really hoping that this bag won't be too much of a monster! :eek:
The more room you have, the more you're tempted to pack!!


Kathy

[jordanyosh]

Yeah... what she said!! :laughing:

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



You'd better get cracking, Jordan, you've got a whole lotta catching up to do!


Kathy

I do!

[KathyRN137]

We have such a hard time waiting in lines for characters that most of our character meets have been at character meals. We stumbled across a couple characters without lines during our most recent trip, but I can only think of 2 or 3 characters that we have actually waited in line to see. We should have taken advantage of the characters at MNSSHP in 07 but that was the furthest thing from our minds at the time. I hope you guys get to meet lots of new characters!


Sometimes, I'm secretly relieved that we no longer have to stop at every single character stop! It did take up loads of time. :hourglass

But, there are also times that I miss those days... it means the kids are getting older and the characters are not quite as magical as before! :sad1:

Hopefully, they'll indulge their silly mommy and pose just a bit!! (I know Billy will, anyway!!) :hug:

Kathy

[Beka]

A Question of Independence...


We'll be spending time with family this weekend and, naturally, Tricia is anxious to talk Disney with her cousin. :hyper2:

She pooh-poohs me when I want to talk about the trip, but that's just her being a teenager. Wow... a teenager!!

I laugh a lot about her recent attitudes and how they reflect her growing up, but the fact remains that she is thirteen now and is slowly being given more freedoms and responsibilities as Ed and I see fit.

Charleston Princess brought it up the other day and it got me thinking...

I know that this subject will come up eventually in our family conversations...perhaps it may even come up this weekend...and I want to be prepared. I just know that at some point, the two thirteen-year-olds are going to want to go off on their own to do a certain ride or shop or whatever while we're at WDW and I'm not sure how I feel about it.

Yes, they will both have their cell phones. Yes, I can trust that they will honor the buddy system and stick together. But I just don't know.....

Somehow I just don't feel comfortable letting the two of them go off together in the parks. :worried: I know that WDW is relatively safe, but I cannot help but worry. I know Ed feels the same way, but I'm worried that my DSis (Catie's mom) feels more comfortable with letting them go and it may cause a bit of a conflict when we're there. Catie is an only child and used to a lot of independence.

Now, I'm perfectly fine if, say, the girls don't want to see Playhouse Disney and Ed takes them to the Magic of Disney Animation while I stay with Billy. I just don't think I can let them go off without an adult just yet.

What do you think? Am I being over-protective?? :confused3


Kathy

'K, I'm late to the game, but gonna weigh in. WDW is safer than your local mall. Why not explain to her some set guidelines & let her know that future independent adventures will stem off how she handles this one. Have her check in q2h while in the parks, & go from there. You can start by her going to get drinks or something while in the hotel, or to see the animals. Might as well learn how to be independent & responsible in a fun, safe, environment!

[KathyRN137]

You can start by her going to get drinks or something while in the hotel, or to see the animals. Might as well learn how to be independent & responsible in a fun, safe, environment!

Baby steps...baby steps.

(I'm talking about me, not the girls!!) :lmao:


Kathy

[KJ and Crew]

More Musings on Characters...

I would like to see the fairies at Pixie Hollow if we can... not sure if the "big girls" will love or hate that idea...

Have any of you met any unusual (rare) characters at Disney over the years??


Kathy

New to this report, and enjoying catching up!! We have an offer in for SSR DVC resale, waiting on ROFR. I also love my quirky Aspie DS and my wild ADHD boy, along w/ my NT daughter, so can relate all around! ;)

Back to the question about the characters...


In Feb. 2009 I think the more "exotic" ones we met were:

Mushu in China (Ep) = my favorite
King Louie and Baloo (AK)
Dopey in Germany (Ep)

The pixies in the hollow are more of an experience then a meet and greet! They pretended to shrink us before we entered the magic room, and the fairies spend a lot of time interacting with the family. We met Iridessa, Tink, and Silvermist. EVEN my 2 boys found them really cool! FYI: we did not use our GAC for this line, so we waited over an hour! But we let the kids use their DS's since the line doesn't move much, and there are TV monitors playing Disney movie clips too... not too bad!

Glad to be here, can't wait to hear about VAKL! :goodvibes

[KathyRN137]

.... I also love my quirky Aspie DS and my wild ADHD boy, along w/ my NT daughter, so can relate all around!

Glad to be here, can't wait to hear about VAKL! :goodvibes


Hey there KJ!! Welcome!! Good luck with DVC; we love it! :lovestruc

Sounds like you've got your hands full!!! :laughing:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

In related PTR News....

Today I took Aunt Rae shopping at Best Buy. She had a coupon for Paul Blart: Mall Cop that was burning a hole in her pocket and she wanted to use it before it expired. (She also wanted to get a copy for Ed for a Father's Day present!)

Anyway, we're looking around and I noticed that Disney has released some of their classic shorts from "the vault." I could not resist, especially because one of them was The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad. For some strange reason, we never had this on DVD. (I seem to remember having The Wind in the Willows on VHS a while back, but we no longer have even that.)

How does this relate to our Halloween PTR, you might ask??

Well, the Boo To You Too Halloween Parade is led by a ghostly rider on horseback... the Headless Horseman!! The kids are not even remotely familiar with The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, so I'd like them to watch this before our trip so they can get the full effect!!

Now, the only problem is... I really want to watch it now!!!! Should I wait until its closer to Halloween, or just go for it???


Kathy

[jordanyosh]

In related PTR News....

Today I took Aunt Rae shopping at Best Buy. She had a coupon for Paul Blart: Mall Cop that was burning a hole in her pocket and she wanted to use it before it expired. (She also wanted to get a copy for Ed for a Father's Day present!)

Anyway, we're looking around and I noticed that Disney has released some of their classic shorts from "the vault." I could not resist, especially because one of them was The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad. For some strange reason, we never had this on DVD. (I seem to remember having The Wind in the Willows on VHS a while back, but we no longer have even that.)

How does this relate to our Halloween PTR, you might ask??

Well, the Boo To You Too Halloween Parade is led by a ghostly rider on horseback... the Headless Horseman!! The kids are not even remotely familiar with The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, so I'd like them to watch this before our trip so they can get the full effect!!

Now, the only problem is... I really want to watch it now!!!! Should I wait until its closer to Halloween, or just go for it???


Kathy

Go for it!

[Charleston Princess]

You should watch it now -- it will help ease the Disney longing! :thumbsup2

[cjackearl]

For some reason, thinking about Aunt Rae buying Mall Cop made me laugh!

I say Go for it, too!

[mom2mek]

Yep...go for it! :thumbsup2

(That horseman is spectacular!!) :cool1:

Sara