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

[All7OfUs]

I already posted on mrsksomeday's PTR that I totally got things fogged up in my head and thought you were all going on the same weekend... bummer. :rolleyes: But I am excited that there will be a meeting of the generals... hope you get lots of battle plans drawn up!!


Kathy

Oh, I'm soooo confused!!!

That was actually probably my own fault that you were too. :lmao: Since I was out of the loop somewhat for the last week I was only getting snippets of who was actually going to be there this weekend. I thought, too, for a while that they were going to be there and even posted on her PTR that it would be a fun meet, not realizing that they had already been.

Ah well.... it is a bummer they didn't overlap, it sure would've been fun to have them too!

Yes, we generals will draw up some decisive plans for victory, and basically get out act together. :rotfl2: We'll even map out our wartime documentation (AKA our PTR) so we can be coordinated about it.

Pssst, don't tell anyone, but we really just want to eat chocolate and do some other fun stuff (um, like Opry Mills Mall) together. :lmao::dance3:

[KathyRN137]

Pssst, don't tell anyone, but we really just want to eat chocolate and do some other fun stuff (um, like Opry Mills Mall) together. :lmao::dance3:


Liesa, your secret is safe with me! :ssst:


Kathy

[SwansLoveDisney]

Yay for having a DIS meet with Tracy in Bill!!! :banana::yay::woohoo:

[DisMomAmy]

I'm so excited for you guys!! :banana::banana::banana:

[DisMomAmy]

And I'm sure you already knew this, but you can make your ADRs online now!!! I guess there's been a little glitch with the DVC reservation numbers, but I'm sure they'll have that fixed by the time you can make yours!! :confused3

[KathyRN137]

Yay for having a DIS meet with Tracy in Bill!!! :banana::yay::woohoo:

I'm so excited for you guys!! :banana::banana::banana:

Thanks, you two!! It's the next day and it's still sinking in!! I was really, truly, surprised (and touched) that Tracy thought of me when planning!

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

And I'm sure you already knew this, but you can make your ADRs online now!!! I guess there's been a little glitch with the DVC reservation numbers, but I'm sure they'll have that fixed by the time you can make yours!! :confused3


I'm not sure...but I feel a bit apprehensive about this!! :confused3 I should go over to the Dining boards and read up on what folks are saying about it.

I guess I'll just miss talking to a real live CM...


Kathy

[mousescrapper]

How great to have a Dis-meet planned for you.... :goodvibes

I can't believe your trip is under 5 months now...I'm just excited mine is under 18 months :rotfl:

[maroo]

Pssst, don't tell anyone, but we really just want to eat chocolate and do some other fun stuff (um, like Opry Mills Mall) together. :lmao::dance3:

Did someone say CHOCOLATE?!?! And shopping? I wanna come!!!

Oh wait! I AM coming! :lmao:

We will be having a ball and doing some serious Disney planning...in fact...I am trying to work the numbers as I am sitting here... hmm... and plan for what we are going to plan. :rotfl:


I am so excited that you and Tracy get to meet up again! :dance3:

[WelovMickey!]

Hi Kathy,

I have been a lurker for a while and have dipped in your trips reports before. But now is the time to come out from the darkness! I want friends and you can't make friends in the dark. I have a son that has autism too.

Anyways, I thought that this (The ARF = The Aunt Rae Factor.)
sounded juicy and I want to know more so I need to read more:cheer2:

[mrsksomeday]

Tracy, you knocked me over with a feather!!!!


I am just so excited... tonight I found out that my DIS-friends Tracy (mrsksomeday) and Bill (YodaK) have changed their upcoming vacation dates and now our trips are overlapping!!! :banana::woohoo::yay:

Tracy and I have been PMing each other like crazy and we are definitely going to have a DIS-meet... my mind is just racing with ideas!!!

Pix from our last DIS-meet at Roaring Forks (WL) in 2007:


http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/WDW%2008/IMGP1996.jpg


http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/WDW%2008/IMGP1994.jpg


http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/WDW%2008/IMGP1999.jpg



(Tracy, do you have any to share???)


Kathy

Goodness, I am glad I get a do over with the pictures :lmao:. I think I look a little different than that now. Here is a picture I took of the scrapbook page I made from our meet:

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm243/mrskenchanted/November%202009/003.jpg

[Goofster57]

I was here....:banana:




And don't think I missed your :hourglass either young lady...:sad2:

[KathyRN137]

How great to have a Dis-meet planned for you.... :goodvibes

I can't believe your trip is under 5 months now...I'm just excited mine is under 18 months :rotfl:


It's been 14 months since our last trip and I miss it soooo much!! :sad2:





I am so excited that you and Tracy get to meet up again! :dance3:


Me too! :scratchin I wonder if we can somehow get chocolate and shopping into our meet!

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Hi Kathy,

I have been a lurker for a while and have dipped in your trips reports before. But now is the time to come out from the darkness! I want friends and you can't make friends in the dark. I have a son that has autism too.

Anyways, I thought that this (The ARF = The Aunt Rae Factor.)
sounded juicy and I want to know more so I need to read more:cheer2:


Hi Ingrid, and :welcome: !!

I'm so glad you decided to pop in and say HI! :grouphug: for us moms of autistic kids.... WDW is so wonderful for them!!

The ARF report is the "ANOTHER Adventure..." TR and the link is in my signature if you care to read it.

Yes... there's lots of drama in that one!! :rotfl2:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm243/mrskenchanted/November%202009/003.jpg


Tracy, I love your scrapbook page! You are so creative!!

I'm glad you're losing weight, but make sure you keep something for me to hug, okay?! :lmao:


Kathy

[mrsksomeday]

Oh you don't have to worry about that, I still have way too much to hug! Shopping and chocolate? I don't think you would have to twist my arm too much for that :rotfl:.

[Dreamer & Wisher]

Me too! :scratchin I wonder if we can somehow get chocolate and shopping into our meet!

Kathy

Sounds like a visit to Downtown Disney to me! Ghiradelli chocolate and lots of shopping. . .

[KathyRN137]

And don't think I missed your :hourglass either young lady...:sad2:



Hey, a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do.... ::yes::


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Sounds like a visit to Downtown Disney to me! Ghiradelli chocolate and lots of shopping. . .


Mmmmmm! Sounds good!

And perhaps a little balloon ride while we're at it!!

(Do you think the men would mind seeing all of Princess Diana's gowns?) :lmao:

You may be right... Meat overload at 'Ohana might be a better choice for them!!


Kathy

[Charleston Princess]

I saw that about Princess Diana's gowns and so want to plan a trip to see them now! I remember watching her wedding when I was six years old, and I just idolized her as a child.

[MinnieNurse]

Mmmmmm! Sounds good!

And perhaps a little balloon ride while we're at it!!

(Do you think the men would mind seeing all of Princess Diana's gowns?) :lmao:

You may be right... Meat overload at 'Ohana might be a better choice for them!!


Kathy

What is this about Princess Diana's gowns? Are they at DTD now? Tell me more, please. :yay::yay: I loved her storybook wedding. I remember seeing it on TV as a child. :bride:

I really want to do that balloon ride.

[KathyRN137]

What is this about Princess Diana's gowns? Are they at DTD now? Tell me more, please. :yay::yay: I loved her storybook wedding. I remember seeing it on TV as a child. :bride:



Princess Diana Exhibit at Downtown Disney


"DIANA – The People’s Princess" will be opening in early July 2009. If you loved Princess Diana's style and glamour, you'll love this. This limited time exhibit includes five rarely seen royal dresses worn by Princess Diana, and showcases her life and story. The collection will be on display in the spot that once held the Virgin Megastore at Downtown Disney West Side. Being presented by The People’s Princess Charitable Foundation, this is one of the largest collections of royal dresses and rare artifacts ever assembled for an American audience.

The exhibition will be on display through November 30, 2009. Hours are 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily. Tickets may be purchased at the exhibit: $14.50 (ages 10 and above), $5 (ages 3-9).



http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr283/dianafan123/19809.jpg


She was a beautiful bride, wasn't she?? I remember watching it on TV, too!

Kathy

[jcc0621]

I remember watching to Kathy ::yes::

I just can't figure out why DTD:confused3

[KathyRN137]

I remember watching to Kathy ::yes::

I just can't figure out why DTD:confused3


Perhaps it will be a continually changing exhibit of interesting stuff... like the temporary art exhibits at The American Adventure....

I've also heard whispered rumors that One Man's Dream may be re-locating... I wonder if they plan to move it to DTD... :confused3


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Very Scary Halloween Costumes!


Okay, I know that it's June. School ends for my kids next week and my thoughts should be focused on afternoon baseball games, backyard BBQs, and trips to the beach. My biggest concern right now should be making sure no one in the family gets poison ivy, a really bad sunburn, or eaten alive by mosquitoes.

But instead, I find that I am stressing about something that I'm sure no other woman on my block is concerning herself with...

What on earth is my daughter going to wear for Halloween this year?! :lmao:

Tricia and my DNiece, Catie, (both 13) have decided that they want to dress up as Pirates. On the one hand, I'm very pleased because I love the idea of the whole family having co-ordinating costumes in the same theme. pirate: On the other hand, I am having mild anxiety attacks just looking at the female pirate costumes that would fit both Catie (very tall and thin) and Tricia (average height and curvy.) Because of their sizes, they will need adult size costumes, so commercially-offered pirate "lass" costumes are no longer cute... they are "sassy," which is just a more ambiguous term for "slutty".

Remember me telling you about the inappropriate Snow White and Alice costumes we saw at the Pirate & Princess Party?? Well, here is a sampling of what is offered for female pirates:

"Sexy Swashbuckler"... "Booty-licious"... "Playboy Scandalous Pirate"... "Captain's Mistress"
... and (my personal favorite)... "Captain Booty Sexy". :rolleyes2

Mind you, I'm not a prude. But these costumes are more appropriate for couples' bedroom fantasy activities, not Halloween costumes! (IMHO) My DSis is of the same opinion and has also vetoed any "sassy" costumes.

One thing that is working in our favor is that the girls have decided that they do not want to wear short skirts because they will be getting on and off of rides all night. (Whew!) Great news, but that leaves out about 85% of the costumes shown.


So they are looking at a costume with a knee-length skirt or some sort of pants or leggings and, have their hearts set on wearing boots. Not high-heeled boots like the "Booty-licious" model is wearing, but boots just the same. (That's going to be a whole 'nother discussion because they need to be able to walk around in them for 7-8 hours!) Okay, forget the boot issue for now, let's get back to the main costumes.


I suggested black ragged-legged pants and striped shirts with big belts, boots, and bandanas...

No. "That sounds ugly."

I suggested brown pants and white ruffled blouses with lace sleeves, long vests, boots, and hats with plumes...

No. "That sounds ugly."

I even got desperate and suggested the POC Elizabeth costume...


http://www.buycostumes.com/Pirates-of-the-Caribbean-3-Elizabeth-Pirate-Deluxe-Adult-2007-Costume/31521/ProductDetail.aspx

No. "I don't like it."

"But why?"

"It's ugly."

Oh. For. Heaven's. Sake!!! :sad2:


So... I need an age-appropriate pirate costume(s) that is "pretty" but not sexy and comfortable but not "ugly". Tricia is being im-poss-ible. (In other words, a typical teenage girl.) Finally, I told her that unless she wanted me to try my hand at sewing :eek: she and her cousin would have to find their own costumes and her aunt and I would retain ultimate veto power.

Annoyed, she scrolled through the pages herself and came up with two costumes she declared not "ugly". They would certainly need a bit of tweaking to make them more age-appropriate (to which she agreed), and so I agreed that she could discuss these with her cousin. These are the choices:


Choice # 1: http://www.buycostumes.com/Rustic-Pirate-Lady-Elite-Adult-Collection-Costume/19282/ProductDetail.aspx

(Not only is this costume very expensive, it would need a different blouse unless this one could be altered. Either that or she would need to wear a cami underneath it.)


Choice # 2: http://www.halloweenexpress.com/south-seas-siren-adult-costume-p-11808.html

(This costume is very inexpensive... so the material and construction is probably cheap and flimsy. I'm not crazy about this blouse, either, but again... appropriate substitutions or the addition of under-layers are always an option.)


This is not going to be easy....


Kathy

[jcc0621]

How about this one Kathy. It's from POTC too, but modest!

http://www.costumediscounters.com/popular-characters/pirates-of-the-caribbean/empress-elizabeth-deluxe-adult-costume-6672DI.html

[Hedy]

You *might* have better luck closer to Halloween-Sharpay went as a pirate lass when she was 11, and it wasn't inappropriate (her body type is curvy). Knowing the Evanses, I'm *guessing* they got it at Wal-Mart.
Would showing her pics of Crystal's costume help? http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=22045644&postcount=1001

[MRYPPNS]

Very Scary Halloween Costumes!

Choice # 1: http://www.buycostumes.com/Rustic-Pirate-Lady-Elite-Adult-Collection-Costume/19282/ProductDetail.aspx

(Not only is this costume very expensive, it would need a different blouse unless this one could be altered. Either that or she would need to wear a cami underneath it.)

Kathy

I love the review one woman gave for this costume....too funny..

I was happy with everything but the guaze shirt. Thought it would be "sexier". Will definitely need to wear a push up bra to give it the extra pizzazz.


I would suggest a couple trips to Goodwill to piece together a costume.

[KathyRN137]

How about this one Kathy. It's from POTC too, but modest!

http://www.costumediscounters.com/popular-characters/pirates-of-the-caribbean/empress-elizabeth-deluxe-adult-costume-6672DI.html

I like it, Janet, but Tricia feels it's not really pirate-y!!


Kathy

[jcc0621]

I like it, Janet, but Tricia feels it's not really pirate-y!!


Kathy

:thumbsup2

[KathyRN137]

Would showing her pics of Crystal's costume help? http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=22045644&postcount=1001

Thanks for sharing that... I hadn't seen it before!!

Unfortunately, it got the :snooty: from Tricia...


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I would suggest a couple trips to Goodwill to piece together a costume.


I'm with you! ::yes::

And I did tell Tricia that if there were any female pirates back then, they sure didn't look "pretty!" (I don't think she cares if her costume is historically accurate or not!)


Kathy

[preschoolmom]

I think both of those choices are pretty, and can be tweaked for "appropriateness"...

:thumbsup2

[DearDaisyinDurham]

I like the second choice, South Seas....but knowing teens we should probably all HATE the one that you want Tricia to pick! Then she might like it. LOL.

[Dreamer & Wisher]

How about something like these?

http://www.mccallpattern.com/item/M4952.htm?search=Pirate%20Costume&page=all

pirate:

[jordanyosh]

I'm glad I don't have kids especially daughters...they'd be locked in the basement until they were 21.....and shotguns would be on display for any date to see......

and those costumes....only if they wear a huge coat over them...;)

[Charleston Princess]

Oh my, Kathy, you do have your work cut out for you! :eek:

Sending you prayers and pixie dust for this one!

[MinnieNurse]

I'm glad I don't have kids especially daughters...they'd be locked in the basement until they were 21.....and shotguns would be on display for any date to see......

and those costumes....only if they wear a huge coat over them...;)

I truly believe that is why God only gave me a boy because my DH is the same way. My Dad had 3 girls and he use to sharpen his knifes when our dates would pick us up. :rotfl:

Wow, pirate costumes are getting as bad as the Naughty Nurse costumes they have. :lmao:

[KathyRN137]

I think both of those choices are pretty, and can be tweaked for "appropriateness"...

:thumbsup2


Thats "if" she lives up to her agreement!!


I like the second choice, South Seas....but knowing teens we should probably all HATE the one that you want Tricia to pick! Then she might like it. LOL.


The old whole reverse-psychology thing, huh?!


How about something like these?

http://www.mccallpattern.com/item/M4952.htm?search=Pirate%20Costume&page=all

pirate:


I like them!! (PM-ing you...)


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I'm glad I don't have kids especially daughters...they'd be locked in the basement until they were 21.....and shotguns would be on display for any date to see......

and those costumes....only if they wear a huge coat over them...;)


...and those are the best of the lot!!


Oh my, Kathy, you do have your work cut out for you! :eek:

Sending you prayers and pixie dust for this one!


I'm threatening burlap sacks with arm holes cut out in them...


I truly believe that is why God only gave me a boy because my DH is the same way. My Dad had 3 girls and he use to sharpen his knifes when our dates would pick us up. :rotfl:

Wow, pirate costumes are getting as bad as the Naughty Nurse costumes they have. :lmao:


My poor Dad had six daughters... :faint:

I just can't understand why all the costumes have to be like that! :rolleyes:


Kathy

[carissanboys]

Love the pictures from your meet with Tracy and Bill! And how cool that you guys will get to meet again. :goodvibes

Good luck with the costume thing!

[KathyRN137]

Love the pictures from your meet with Tracy and Bill! And how cool that you guys will get to meet again. :goodvibes

Good luck with the costume thing!

Oh, I'm so excited about their change of dates!! :goodvibes

I'm working on the "costume thing!" Tricia and I had a little tiff about it before bedtime and she declared that she doesn't want to wear any costume now... just forget about it!!! Oh, the drama!!! :rolleyes:


Kathy

[HoneyLSU]

What does Tricia think of adding black tights under one of the short skirts? (And what do you think about it for that matter?) That would give them more freedom to move around and not expose them to the whole world. That's what I normally do with my Halloween costumes. You could even fray them a little below the knees to fit in with the whole pirate theme. You could get a cheap pair at Target I know and just give it a try.

I haven't even thought anymore about my Halloween costume!! I need to get on that (and plan everything else - I've neglected my poor PTR!!)

[DisMomAmy]

Yikes!! I'm glad I only have boys! Sorry I don't have any suggestions for you... I do like that McCalls pattern though. Has Tricia seen that one yet?

[MRYPPNS]

Kathy-
Look at post #499 in Jordan's thread. The poster has a pic of herself in her siggie in a pirate costume and to me it looks like something both of you might like.

[mommytothreeboys]

Wow...just wanted to say I'm glad I have boys! :thumbsup2

With a little work, I like either of the ones Tricia picked. But again...that's only IF she sticks to the agreement! :rolleyes1

[brookelizabeth]

I like the second one best....with Mom Adjustments. ;)

The McCall's patterns are great!

You've got your work cut out for you...I'm SO glad I have a boy!! :rotfl: :hug:

If Tricia is now saying no to ANY costume, just make her a simple shirt on zazzle.com that says "Pirate". :laughing:

[KathyRN137]

Kathy-
Look at post #499 in Jordan's thread. The poster has a pic of herself in her siggie in a pirate costume and to me it looks like something both of you might like.


It's funny you should say that, Heidi! Tricia was looking at that one...

http://www.costumes4less.com/Gold-Doubloon-Pirate-Costume_LA83197_Prod.aspx

It is a bit low-cut (which could be altered), but she felt the skirt was a bit too long/full for getting in and out of rides.

But thanks!

We've come a long way from her 1st Halloween costume (6mos). She was a cute little ladybug and her cousin was a bumblebee!! :goodvibes


Kathy

[MinnieNurse]

We've come a long way from her 1st Halloween costume (6mos). She was a cute little ladybug and her cousin was a bumblebee!! :goodvibes


Kathy

Any chance of talking them into the Ladybug and Bumblebee costumes this year. :rotfl: I dont know these days they could probably make those look sexy as well.:rolleyes:

[KathyRN137]

SCARY Costumes, con't.

:thanks: Thanks, everybody, for your suggestions and support!!


What does Tricia think of adding black tights under one of the short skirts? (And what do you think about it for that matter?) That would give them more freedom to move around and not expose them to the whole world... You could even fray them a little below the knees to fit in with the whole pirate theme.

Yikes!! I'm glad I only have boys! Sorry I don't have any suggestions for you... I do like that McCalls pattern though. Has Tricia seen that one yet?

Wow...just wanted to say I'm glad I have boys! :thumbsup2

With a little work, I like either of the ones Tricia picked. But again...that's only IF she sticks to the agreement! :rolleyes1

I like the second one best....with Mom Adjustments. ;)

The McCall's patterns are great!

You've got your work cut out for you...I'm SO glad I have a boy!! :rotfl: :hug:



Okay... we've made a bit of progress! :thumbsup2

First, I had a very kind PM offer from Dreamer&Wisher (Nancy). Hopefully, we will be meeting them some time during the MNSSHP! She is an experienced seamstress and has made some darling outfits for her DD, Abby. Her PTR link is below:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2152965.

Nancy offered to alter any costume Tricia chose or even to make one from a sewing pattern!! :yay: I was so disappointed in what was offered commercially that I jumped at the chance and accepted!! How wonderful, I thought! I'll just order a custom costume from Nancy and that would be perfect!!

I showed Tricia the McCalls pattern, plus a few others I found online. Her response was tepid at best. (Although the thought of being able to have a say in the design process did appeal to her.) Problem is, she really likes the two commercial choices she had selected. :rolleyes2

Ed and I reviewed the two choices and decided that Choice #1 was just a bit too tight and suggestive. Choice # 2 seemed more do-able... especially if she accepted "alterations" as needed and wore tights or leggings underneath...

Choice # 2: http://www.halloweenexpress.com/sout...e-p-11808.html


So my plan is this:

I'll order the costume and have Tricia try it on. She may change her mind once she sees it in person and there's plenty of time to return it. If it needs some sewing alteration, I will ask Nancy for help.

If she decides that the costume does not live up to expectations, then we will pick a sewing pattern and I will take her measurements and order an appropriate costume from Nancy.

Ed, Tricia, and I have agreed that this seems to be a fair resolution... I will be keeping you posted on the outcome, naturally!!


On a related note, while looking for pirate costumes for Tricia, we found one that we thought would be perfect for Ed! pirate:

http://www.costumes4less.com/Captain-Black-Costume_AC14186_Prod.aspx


There's no silk shirt, plumed feathers, or striped pants!! :rotfl2: We joked that it really isn't much of a stretch from his SRU (SWAT) uniform!!! :rotfl: All he had to do now is decide whether he wants to carry a sword or a pistol!!


Billy has his pirate costume from last year...


(See the "hook?") :laughing:

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/WDW%2008/DSCN2032.jpg


Now I've got to start thinking about MINE!!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Any chance of talking them into the Ladybug and Bumblebee costumes this year. :rotfl:


I wish!!!:lmao:


Kathy

[preschoolmom]

Kathy...

We had a "moment" today at an Arboretum. My son (PDD-NOS) fell into a pond (the kids are allowed to walk on rocks through this area). You should have seen his melt-down. It was... well... You know how it was...

We had to leave and go home, because I had no extra clothes.

We learned two things today... A) I should have brought an extra outfit and B) we will not ever be riding Splash Mountain or Kali River Rapids. No water attractions unless my son is wearing a swim suit.

Sigh.

Your first bag isn't looking so impractical :thumbsup2 I'm thinking we'll rent a locker to hold a big bag of emergency supplies? Sigh...

:grouphug:

[joy13]

I was going to say the second costume looks good - just have them wear bike shorts or capri leggings with them. At least they are ok with making the costumes less revealing.

[KathyRN137]

Kathy...

We had a "moment" today at an Arboretum. My son (PDD-NOS) fell into a pond (the kids are allowed to walk on rocks through this area). You should have seen his melt-down. It was... well... You know how it was...

We had to leave and go home, because I had no extra clothes.




Oh... so sorry that happened! :hug:

The same thing actually happened to Tricia two years ago... she was at a mini-golf birthday party and fell into a pond. She had to call me so I could bring her a change of clothes!! :rotfl2:

Oh well... I've learned through experience to bring extra clothes for Billy...
between environmental factors and various body fluids :rolleyes1 it's always a possibility he'll need fresh clothes!!!

Kathy

[irish dancer]

Kathy, I so feel for you on the costume issue. DD12 wanted to be a devil last year, same exact problem you're having with appropriateness. Thankfully DSis made her a costume, she was a bit hot at MNSSHP but not overly so. DD7 was a "Disney" pirate, I made her costume (got the blouse at a resale shop). Here they are waiting to leave for MNSSHP last Oct.

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o33/Briantime_2006/Disney115.jpg

[joy13]

Kathy, I so feel for you on the costume issue. DD12 wanted to be a devil last year, same exact problem you're having with appropriateness. Thankfully DSis made her a costume, she was a bit hot at MNSSHP but not overly so. DD7 was a "Disney" pirate, I made her costume (got the blouse at a resale shop). Here they are waiting to leave for MNSSHP last Oct.

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o33/Briantime_2006/Disney115.jpg


They are all so cute! Is DS a tourist? I love it!

[Dreamer & Wisher]

SCARY Costumes, con't.

:thanks: Thanks, everybody, for your suggestions and support!!











Okay... we've made a bit of progress! :thumbsup2

First, I had a very kind PM offer from Dreamer&Wisher (Nancy). Hopefully, we will be meeting them some time during the MNSSHP! She is an experienced seamstress and has made some darling outfits for her DD, Abby. Her PTR link is below:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2069401

Nancy offered to alter any costume Tricia chose or even to make one from a sewing pattern!! :yay: I was so disappointed in what was offered commercially that I jumped at the chance and accepted!! How wonderful, I thought! I'll just order a custom costume from Nancy and that would be perfect!!

I showed Tricia the McCalls pattern, plus a few others I found online. Her response was tepid at best. (Although the thought of being able to have a say in the design process did appeal to her.) Problem is, she really likes the two commercial choices she had selected. :rolleyes2

Ed and I reviewed the two choices and decided that Choice #1 was just a bit too tight and suggestive. Choice # 2 seemed more do-able... especially if she accepted "alterations" as needed and wore tights or leggings underneath...

Choice # 2: http://www.halloweenexpress.com/sout...e-p-11808.html


So my plan is this:

I'll order the costume and have Tricia try it on. She may change her mind once she sees it in person and there's plenty of time to return it. If it needs some sewing alteration, I will ask Nancy for help.

If she decides that the costume does not live up to expectations, then we will pick a sewing pattern and I will take her measurements and order an appropriate costume from Nancy.

Ed, Tricia, and I have agreed that this seems to be a fair resolution... I will be keeping you posted on the outcome, naturally!!


On a related note, while looking for pirate costumes for Tricia, we found one that we thought would be perfect for Ed! pirate:

http://www.costumes4less.com/Captain-Black-Costume_AC14186_Prod.aspx


There's no silk shirt, plumed feathers, or striped pants!! :rotfl2: We joked that it really isn't much of a stretch from his SRU (SWAT) uniform!!! :rotfl: All he had to do now is decide whether he wants to carry a sword or a pistol!!


Billy has his pirate costume from last year...


(See the "hook?") :laughing:

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/WDW%2008/DSCN2032.jpg


Now I've got to start thinking about MINE!!


Kathy
Oh Kathy now I am blushing :o I am definitely buying that pattern soon. Ethan loves the shirt and he wants brown pants like Jack Sparrow wears.

That costume for Ed looks a bit warm though:goodvibes

Kathy, I so feel for you on the costume issue. DD12 wanted to be a devil last year, same exact problem you're having with appropriateness. Thankfully DSis made her a costume, she was a bit hot at MNSSHP but not overly so. DD7 was a "Disney" pirate, I made her costume (got the blouse at a resale shop). Here they are waiting to leave for MNSSHP last Oct.

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o33/Briantime_2006/Disney115.jpg
Adorable kids and I love the costumes!

[irish dancer]

They are all so cute! Is DS a tourist? I love it!

Thanks! Yes, DS was a tourist. His "real" costume was Spiderman, the full body jumpsuit with the muscles and all. I knew he would die from the heat in it so I had to come up with something comfortable for warm weather. It worked out perfectly, he was cool as a cucumber!

[KathyRN137]

I was going to say the second costume looks good - just have them wear bike shorts or capri leggings with them. At least they are ok with making the costumes less revealing.

Yes... you're right! It may just work.

At least at age 13 she still feels like she has no choice if Mom & Dad say "no!" ;)

I also like the fact that the second costume is about 1/3 the price!!!

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Kathy, I so feel for you on the costume issue. DD12 wanted to be a devil last year, same exact problem you're having with appropriateness. Thankfully DSis made her a costume, she was a bit hot at MNSSHP but not overly so. DD7 was a "Disney" pirate, I made her costume (got the blouse at a resale shop). Here they are waiting to leave for MNSSHP last Oct.

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o33/Briantime_2006/Disney115.jpg


Oh, they all look fantastic!! See... that's what Halloween costumes should look like! :thumbsup2 You did a great job.

I'm going to show Tricia this picture...

DD7 is wearing the same ears I wore at the P&PP!! (Hmmm, perhaps I can recycle them...)


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Oh Kathy now I am blushing :o I am definitely buying that pattern soon. Ethan loves the shirt and he wants brown pants like Jack Sparrow wears.

That costume for Ed looks a bit warm though:goodvibes




Wow... sounds like we'll have enough pirates there for an entire crew!! :laughing:

The weather could "break" either way on Oct 31, so I am a bit concerned that whatever costumes we choose will need to be adapted to either a warm or chilly night!

Ed has enough "black" in his wardrobe that I'm sure I could make it cooler if needed...

I'll be checking those weather forcasts like crazy, I'm sure!! :sunny: :cold: :umbrella:


Kathy

[mrsksomeday]

Hi Kathy!!

I clicked on Dreamer&Wisher's PTR link you gave us but it sent me to her January TR. Here is her PTR link http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2152965.

[eandesmom]

My suggestion if I was in your boat (and with DSD12, I would be lol!)

Get black leggings for both. Flat, but long (just under the knee) black boots. They can wear them over the leggings and both, the leggings and boots can be worn again.

White ruffled pirate shirts but long. Think Jeffy Seinfeld and the puffy shirt lol. Very modest but fun. Then a cool wide black belt worn at an angle swashbuckler style. You could find that kind of belt in the boys or adult male pirate accessories I bet. Add a pirate striped vest. Very Keira Knightly but appropriate for their ages (cute but not slutty) and super easy for getting in and off of rides.

It sounds like you've found something but if you decide to not do the skirt thing (and be careful...girls will roll skirts!) it could be an option.

[KathyRN137]

Hi Kathy!!

I clicked on Dreamer&Wisher's PTR link you gave us but it sent me to her January TR. Here is her PTR link http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2152965.


Thanks for letting me know, Tracy!!!

I'll go fix it!

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

My suggestion if I was in your boat (and with DSD12, I would be lol!)

Get black leggings for both. Flat, but long (just under the knee) black boots. They can wear them over the leggings and both, the leggings and boots can be worn again.

White ruffled pirate shirts but long. Think Jeffy Seinfeld and the puffy shirt lol. Very modest but fun. Then a cool wide black belt worn at an angle swashbuckler style. You could find that kind of belt in the boys or adult male pirate accessories I bet. Add a pirate striped vest. Very Keira Knightly but appropriate for their ages (cute but not slutty) and super easy for getting in and off of rides.



I know exactly what you are talking about... I did suggest the big shirt/belt/leggings/boots combo, but got shot down!! :rolleyes: And those big peasant-style shirts are so in this year... they could even get "regular" use out of them!! DSis also thinks that's the way to go... so simple and comfy!!

Ah, but if Moms like it, 13 year-old girls won't!!!


Kathy

[eandesmom]

I know exactly what you are talking about... I did suggest the big shirt/belt/leggings/boots combo, but got shot down!! :rolleyes: And those big peasant-style shirts are so in this year... they could even get "regular" use out of them!! DSis also thinks that's the way to go... so simple and comfy!!

Ah, but if Moms like it, 13 year-old girls won't!!!
Kathy

Bummer! I would think DSD would like it but then again...I could be wrong. She just told me today, for her birthday (big 13 in Aug) she wants make up and is into Pac Sun and Wet Seal.

Who would thought I'd miss the days of Hollister?

[KathyRN137]

Bummer! I would think DSD would like it but then again...I could be wrong. She just told me today, for her birthday (big 13 in Aug) she wants make up and is into Pac Sun and Wet Seal.

Who would thought I'd miss the days of Hollister?


Shhhh! Hollister is still okay here!!! I just have to make sure she doesn't get her tee-shirts two sizes smaller than they should be!! :rolleyes1


Kathy

[jordanyosh]

From Bags to shoes to costumes and talk of leggings...what exactly are they?

I grew up with 2 brothers and no sisters...I have no idea what leggings are other than the ones that Jennifer Beal wore in Flashdance with the torn shirt...hubba hubba.

[KathyRN137]

From Bags to shoes to costumes and talk of leggings...what exactly are they?

I grew up with 2 brothers and no sisters...I have no idea what leggings are other than the ones that Jennifer Beal wore in Flashdance with the torn shirt...hubba hubba.


Leggings are thicker than stockings but tighter than pants....

Example:

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Decorated%20images/IMG_0026.jpg

Always happy to help... but, we're trying to stay away from "hubba hubba!!"


Kathy

[brookelizabeth]

Glad to hear you are an inch or two closer to having the costume dilema solved!

Aren't DISers GREAT????! :goodvibes

[KathyRN137]

Glad to hear you are an inch or two closer to having the costume dilema solved!

Aren't DISers GREAT????! :goodvibes


Love 'em!! :disrocks:


Kathy

[jordanyosh]

Leggings are thicker than stockings but tighter than pants....

Example:

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Decorated%20images/IMG_0026.jpg

Always happy to help... but, we're trying to stay away from "hubba hubba!!"


Kathy

You learn something new everyday...

Yeah....I reserve my hubba hubba for Sandra Bullock...just saw the Proposal today with many women...I think I was one of 2 out of 6 that cried.....

[KathyRN137]

You learn something new everyday...



Glad you got to see the picture before it got deleted... :confused3


Kathy

[mommytothreeboys]

Glad you've made some progress in the costume department!

So fun to be dressing up together! :banana:

[mom2mek]

SOunds like you are making some headway on the costume thing! :thumbsup2 I do NOT envy you on that one, but think it's great that you are so dedicated to making sure she looks age-appropriate! I saw too many pre-teen and teens that obviously did not have as dedicated a parent and let them go with whatever they wanted. :eek: I don't understand some parents. :confused3

Sara

[KathyRN137]

Glad you've made some progress in the costume department!

So fun to be dressing up together! :banana:

I think it will be fun once we get to the party... the way I'm feeling right now, I'd trade one girl for three boys in a second!!! :rotfl:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

.... I saw too many pre-teen and teens that obviously did not have as dedicated a parent and let them go with whatever they wanted. :eek: I don't understand some parents. :confused3

Sara


I just keep getting flashbacks to "sassy" Snow White and "sassy" Alice from the P&PP!! :scared: I don't want people staring at (and whispering about) my DD the way people were staring at those two!!

Yikes! Why do all the young girls want to look so provocative... at that age I was wearing Levi's and Polo shirts!!!

Kathy

[GlassSlippers]

Hi!
It's me, the Co-Knower And Planner Of All Things Disney! :wizard: Sorry it's been a while.

Anyway, I know what you mean about age appropriate costumes, but I do have a suggestion or two since I've been "costuming" at science fiction/fantasy conventions and renaissance festivals for years.

The boot issue is easy to solve. You can get boot toppers, which are actually fake boots. They're like a sleeve that goes on the lower leg and over the top of your own shoe. It looks like boots, but you're wearing your own comfy shoes underneath.

For those pirate-y shirts, go to e-Bay and look for a women's short chemise. A good key wording would be "Women's chemise Renaissance", "Pirate Shirt" or something along those lines. The neck line is usually either elastic or drawstring and can be worn on or off the shoulder. They're usually long enough to cover a person's behind, especially if you buy it a little big and cinch up the neck line. Go for a small men's pirate shirt if they want a collar. They're also really easy to make even if you're not much of a seamstress and patterns are readily available at any fabric store. If they wore one of those chemises with a sash (perhaps one of those long scarves that are in style now, re-purposed as a sash) dark leggings, a pair of boot toppers they'd look cute, pirate-like and age appropriate. Add a pirate hat pinned up on one side and ostrich plumes from the craft store tucked in the fold and maybe some thrift store jewelry they'll be all set. If they really want the vest look, try eBay again. Look for a renaissance bodice. It will be more expensive, but if the girls wear it the right way it will be attractive without being too revealing. Afterward, the bodice is really cute with a long sleeved blouse and jeans so it wouldn't be a one use garment.

If you go the eBay route, remember that you have time so you can watch the going rates and don't pay more than you feel is reasonable. I got a chemise for about $10 by watching and waiting. You'll want to finish before September though or the prices will sky-rocket because everybody will be thinking Halloween.

Another possibility for finding costume pieces would be going to a Renaissance Faire or Festival. They always have period costume wear for sale. Check the children's costume sellers first. Some of them have pretty large sizes. I have an outfit that's a girls XL. I'm 5'4" and weighed about 120 when I bought it. It was far less expensive than the same thing in an adult small. It might be worth a try.

I'm going to have to live vicariously through you for the Halloween party, btw. We were going to be in WDW for the first night of the party, but the school district here changed the start date for school. The kids go back a week earlier than we thought and we had to change our vacation dates! :guilty: :mad:

Anyhow, I hope this helps a little!




Very Scary Halloween Costumes!


Okay, I know that it's June. School ends for my kids next week and my thoughts should be focused on afternoon baseball games, backyard BBQs, and trips to the beach. My biggest concern right now should be making sure no one in the family gets poison ivy, a really bad sunburn, or eaten alive by mosquitoes.

But instead, I find that I am stressing about something that I'm sure no other woman on my block is concerning herself with...

What on earth is my daughter going to wear for Halloween this year?! :lmao:

Tricia and my DNiece, Catie, (both 13) have decided that they want to dress up as Pirates. On the one hand, I'm very pleased because I love the idea of the whole family having co-ordinating costumes in the same theme. pirate: On the other hand, I am having mild anxiety attacks just looking at the female pirate costumes that would fit both Catie (very tall and thin) and Tricia (average height and curvy.) Because of their sizes, they will need adult size costumes, so commercially-offered pirate "lass" costumes are no longer cute... they are "sassy," which is just a more ambiguous term for "slutty".

Remember me telling you about the inappropriate Snow White and Alice costumes we saw at the Pirate & Princess Party?? Well, here is a sampling of what is offered for female pirates:

"Sexy Swashbuckler"... "Booty-licious"... "Playboy Scandalous Pirate"... "Captain's Mistress"
... and (my personal favorite)... "Captain Booty Sexy". :rolleyes2

Mind you, I'm not a prude. But these costumes are more appropriate for couples' bedroom fantasy activities, not Halloween costumes! (IMHO) My DSis is of the same opinion and has also vetoed any "sassy" costumes.

One thing that is working in our favor is that the girls have decided that they do not want to wear short skirts because they will be getting on and off of rides all night. (Whew!) Great news, but that leaves out about 85% of the costumes shown.


So they are looking at a costume with a knee-length skirt or some sort of pants or leggings and, have their hearts set on wearing boots. Not high-heeled boots like the "Booty-licious" model is wearing, but boots just the same. (That's going to be a whole 'nother discussion because they need to be able to walk around in them for 7-8 hours!) Okay, forget the boot issue for now, let's get back to the main costumes.


I suggested black ragged-legged pants and striped shirts with big belts, boots, and bandanas...

No. "That sounds ugly."

I suggested brown pants and white ruffled blouses with lace sleeves, long vests, boots, and hats with plumes...

No. "That sounds ugly."

I even got desperate and suggested the POC Elizabeth costume...


http://www.buycostumes.com/Pirates-of-the-Caribbean-3-Elizabeth-Pirate-Deluxe-Adult-2007-Costume/31521/ProductDetail.aspx

No. "I don't like it."

"But why?"

"It's ugly."

Oh. For. Heaven's. Sake!!! :sad2:


So... I need an age-appropriate pirate costume(s) that is "pretty" but not sexy and comfortable but not "ugly". Tricia is being im-poss-ible. (In other words, a typical teenage girl.) Finally, I told her that unless she wanted me to try my hand at sewing :eek: she and her cousin would have to find their own costumes and her aunt and I would retain ultimate veto power.

Annoyed, she scrolled through the pages herself and came up with two costumes she declared not "ugly". They would certainly need a bit of tweaking to make them more age-appropriate (to which she agreed), and so I agreed that she could discuss these with her cousin. These are the choices:


Choice # 1: http://www.buycostumes.com/Rustic-Pirate-Lady-Elite-Adult-Collection-Costume/19282/ProductDetail.aspx

(Not only is this costume very expensive, it would need a different blouse unless this one could be altered. Either that or she would need to wear a cami underneath it.)


Choice # 2: http://www.halloweenexpress.com/south-seas-siren-adult-costume-p-11808.html

(This costume is very inexpensive... so the material and construction is probably cheap and flimsy. I'm not crazy about this blouse, either, but again... appropriate substitutions or the addition of under-layers are always an option.)


This is not going to be easy....


Kathy

[GlassSlippers]

We had a not so fun experience with a costume dagger at a Pirate and Princess Party. The Mr. was dressed as a pirate with a dagger that looked real. We had it what's called "peace tied". It's a safety practice used at Renaissance Faires or anyplace else people might have artificial/costume weaponry and it means that the blade, pistol, sword, etc. is tied down into the sheath or holster and the whole works is tied to a belt, sash or whatever. It's done with one long leather thong or clear fishing line. The weapon can't be accidentally dropped or drawn by some fool who thinks he's being funny. Not possible. Unfortunately for us, the security fella at the MK bag search area had never heard of peace tying and didn't want to know. It took us forever to get it untied and out of the sheath so he could look at it unassembled. He wasn't nasty and he didn't embarass us, but he made my husband check it like you'd check a coat. He had to go with a security person who was dressed in regular street clothes and fill out the little form with the claim check. When we were ready to leave, he picked it up and was escorted out of the park by another plain clothes security person. They were very discreet and nice about it so I doubt anybody else even noticed, but it was kind of a pain.

The funny thing to me is that the toy swords etc being sold in the park were probably more dangerous than the Mr's going-nowhere-tied-down-good-looking-fake-blade was. Kids were running all over waving those things in people's faces and whacking one another with them. Personally, I'd never let my kids do that.

Moral of the story: Any swords, knives or pirate pistols need to be very obvious toys!

[MinnieNurse]

I think it will be fun once we get to the party... the way I'm feeling right now, I'd trade one girl for three boys in a second!!! :rotfl:


Kathy

My DH has 2 sisters and his Mom has always told me she would rather raise 7 boys than those 2 girls. :lmao: She said when DH was in High School all she had to worry about was him, but when his 2 sisters got in High School she had to worry about ALL the boys.

I came from a family of 3 girls so didnt know any different until I had a boy of my own.

[eandesmom]

Shhhh! Hollister is still okay here!!! I just have to make sure she doesn't get her tee-shirts two sizes smaller than they should be!! :rolleyes1


Kathy

LOL! thankfully DSD has been ok with the size thing when we push back (and we have) and will even let us know if she thinks something is too small. Hollister is still ok but she's definitely migrating to cute dresses that push the fingertrip rule issue at school. But it's the first time it's never been on her birthday list. Some of the PacSun stuff isn't so bad (not my taste but, whatever, I can see the hoodies are kind of cute and some of the jeans are ok) but Wet Seal? Ick.

Scary though, one of her Hollister sweatshirts from last summer, that was HUGE, is tight and only her abercrombie bermuda shorts fit (and they are tight but were huge last year). I hope it slows down soon. She went up 3 sizes in a year, mind boggling. And she's not a big girl!

There is a new store at the mall she likes, I can't remember their name. Half cute and half...slut wear. Not forever 21 but kind of similar. Sigh. I'm ignoring her requests. She asked for a juicy jacket and I'll stick to that as her only gift. That I can live with.

[mousescrapper]

Hi Kathy,


I'm bummed I missed out on the majority of the "scary Halloween" costume debate for your DNiece and Tricia....

But I guess I should be more :scared: for what's coming in my near future....w/ a pre-adolescent DD (Aldine) and 2 other girls....

Yes girls can be a tricky parenting stage in life for both mother & daughter...but the end rewards should be wonderful!:hug:

I agree w/ most a little store bought, a little hand-done alterations and some re-use of things you may already have can do wonders for the costume.

We have a tough one too this yr, not in looking sassy but boy this is gonna be a doosie to put all togehter. (Luckily my DSIL and DMIL both sew quite well)

Aldine wants to be a WAAC

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee134/Dizmama5/WAAC.jpg

Can't wait to see the end results of all the Pirates....pirate:

[KathyRN137]

Hi!
Anyway, I know what you mean about age appropriate costumes, but I do have a suggestion or two since I've been "costuming" at science fiction/fantasy conventions and renaissance festivals for years.


.....Another possibility for finding costume pieces would be going to a Renaissance Faire or Festival. They always have period costume wear for sale.



The funny thing to me is that the toy swords etc being sold in the park were probably more dangerous than the Mr's going-nowhere-tied-down-good-looking-fake-blade was.

Moral of the story: Any swords, knives or pirate pistols need to be very obvious toys!


Funny you should mention about the swords b/c Ed did ask if they were allowed... then I reminded him about all the sword-wielding "pirates" we had encountered at the P&PP! :rolleyes1

We have a Renaissance Festival that comes to the next town over every summer... we took the kids last year and they had fun! :joker: I remember all the costumes for sale... I will definitely check that out!!

Thanks!

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

....She asked for a juicy jacket and I'll stick to that as her only gift. That I can live with.


DD still likes Hollister but DN is into Juicy....

...DSis and I both insist that they can't wear anything with writing across the chest or the back of their shorts. They don't need to advertise whether or not they are "sweet" or "juicy!!" :eek:

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

We have a tough one too this yr, not in looking sassy but boy this is gonna be a doosie to put all togehter. (Luckily my DSIL and DMIL both sew quite well)

Aldine wants to be a WAAC

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee134/Dizmama5/WAAC.jpg




:rotfl2: Well, at least you don't have to worry about modesty issues!!! :rotfl2:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Pirate Teen Lassie Comes Home...


Okay, so we've all experienced that wonderful phenomenon of looking and looking for something and not finding it... only to come across it when you're focused on looking for something else, right?? ::yes:: Well, it happened to me yesterday when I was looking around various websites for costume ideas for myself!

I found this really cute "Pirate Teen Lass" costume which seemed very appropriate on top... a bit short on the bottom... but nothing a good pair of black leggings couldn't fix!! Daddy liked this one for his little girl a whole lot better than "South Seas Siren" so we actually convinced Tricia to try it...


http://www.costumeexpress.com/Pirate-Lass-Teen-Costume/61943/ProductDetail.aspx

My only concern is the size... it comes in Small/Medium and Medium/Large.
It's so hard to judge "teen" sizes because everything runs so microscopically small, so I went with Medium/Large.

Oh, I really hope it fits!!


Kathy

[moparop]

Pirate Teen Lassie Comes Home...


Okay, so we've all experienced that wonderful phenomenon of looking and looking for something and not finding it... only to come across it when you're focused on looking for something else, right?? ::yes:: Well, it happened to me yesterday when I was looking around various websites for costume ideas for myself!

I found this really cute "Pirate Teen Lass" costume which seemed very appropriate on top... a bit short on the bottom... but nothing a good pair of black leggings couldn't fix!! Daddy liked this one for his little girl a whole lot better than "South Seas Siren" so we actually convinced Tricia to try it...


http://www.costumeexpress.com/Pirate-Lass-Teen-Costume/61943/ProductDetail.aspx

My only concern is the size... it comes in Small/Medium and Medium/Large.
It's so hard to judge "teen" sizes because everything runs so microscopically small, so I went with Medium/Large.

Oh, I really hope it fits!!


Kathy

Love it! You could totally get on and off rides while wearing that.

It gets the two thumbs up from Mop! :thumbsup2:thumbsup2

[SwansLoveDisney]

Super cute costume and it'll be PERFECT with leggings!

Very age appropriate as well. Good find!

[DisMomAmy]

I think that costume is a great fit! Oops.. No pun intended... but I do hope it fits! ;)

[maroo]

Looks perfect!! :goodvibes

[eandesmom]

super cute, and if memory serves...less expensive! She could do footless tights to if she preferred.

MUCH better than the others!!! I may have to save that link!

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, that one is adorable! I may have to show Chelsea -- maybe I will have our annual Halloween drama solved before it can even begin. :laughing:

[mousescrapper]

That looks very nice...I like more than the Sirens one too.

Hope it works! :thumbsup2

[mrsksomeday]

Great costume!! I really like it, good job finding that Kathy :thumbsup2.

[jcc0621]

Love the costume! Are both girls wearing the same?

[mom2mek]

Love it! You could order it for yourself too! :goodvibes

Sara

[GlassSlippers]

Ooh! That's cute! Easier than eBaying etc too! pirate:

[GlassSlippers]

:rotfl2: Well, at least you don't have to worry about modesty issues!!! :rotfl2:


Kathy


I think this is about the coolest costume idea ever! Do you have an army surplus store nearby? That might be a good starting place.

[MinnieNurse]

Love the new costume. :thumbsup2

Very age appropriate for teens.

[Hedy]

Very nice, my one concern would be the bodice and where it sits.

[joy13]

I love that costume! I think it will be perfect :thumbsup2

[jordanyosh]

Pirate Teen Lassie Comes Home...


Okay, so we've all experienced that wonderful phenomenon of looking and looking for something and not finding it... only to come across it when you're focused on looking for something else, right?? ::yes:: Well, it happened to me yesterday when I was looking around various websites for costume ideas for myself!

I found this really cute "Pirate Teen Lass" costume which seemed very appropriate on top... a bit short on the bottom... but nothing a good pair of black leggings couldn't fix!! Daddy liked this one for his little girl a whole lot better than "South Seas Siren" so we actually convinced Tricia to try it...


http://www.costumeexpress.com/Pirate-Lass-Teen-Costume/61943/ProductDetail.aspx

My only concern is the size... it comes in Small/Medium and Medium/Large.
It's so hard to judge "teen" sizes because everything runs so microscopically small, so I went with Medium/Large.

Oh, I really hope it fits!!


Kathy

So much more age appropriate....:thumbsup2

did you find anything for yourself yet.

[preschoolmom]

I like it! It is perfect for her age!
I hope it fits!

:cool1:

[KathyRN137]

So much more age appropriate....:thumbsup2
did you find anything for yourself yet.

Not yet!!


I love that costume! I think it will be perfect :thumbsup2

Thanks for the thumbs up; now keep your fingers crossed!!


Very nice, my one concern would be the bodice and where it sits.

No way to know until she tries it on, I'm afraid!



Love the new costume. :thumbsup2
Very age appropriate for teens.

Especially the blouse, I think, since it's not falling off the shoulders!


Ooh! That's cute! Easier than eBaying etc too! pirate:

I've never done eBay... but I have been looking at some of the Renaissance clothing sites for me!!



Love it! You could order it for yourself too! :goodvibes
Sara

Ahem!! I think it only come in teen size, not queen size!! :laughing:


Love the costume! Are both girls wearing the same?

Don't know yet... Tricia wants to see how she likes it first! (And if it doesn't fit, its a moot point!) That's the basic style that DN is looking for, though...



Great costume!! I really like it, good job finding that Kathy :thumbsup2.

Tracy, it was pure luck that I happened on it... I hadn't visited that website before! Boy, I do hope it works out!!



That looks very nice...I like more than the Sirens one too.
Hope it works! :thumbsup2

It was good to have Ed back me up, too! :hug:



Oh, that one is adorable! I may have to show Chelsea -- maybe I will have our annual Halloween drama solved before it can even begin. :laughing:

Fabulous!! Drama is certainly the word, isn't it!! :rotfl:


super cute, and if memory serves...less expensive! She could do footless tights to if she preferred.

MUCH better than the others!!! I may have to save that link!


Oooh, I forgot to post that, on that same website, I also found some black footless tights...with skulls and crossbones on them!!! Sooo cute!! pirate:



Looks perfect!! :goodvibes

I'm so thrilled and I cant wait for it to arrive so she can try it on!!


I think that costume is a great fit! Oops.. No pun intended... but I do hope it fits! ;)


Me too! Tricia is a bit curvier than the model, but if this does fit I'll be so happy... and I think she'll be so much more comfortable. (Who wants to be pulling a costume up or down all night??) :rolleyes:


Super cute costume and it'll be PERFECT with leggings!

Very age appropriate as well. Good find!


See above... found such cute black footless leggings with skull and crossbones designs on them!!


Love it! You could totally get on and off rides while wearing that.
It gets the two thumbs up from Mop! :thumbsup2:thumbsup2

Thanks, Mop!! Being comfortable is so important... especially since its going to be our first full night at Disney!!!



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


Thanks so much everybody for reading and posting.... now please send pixie dust that this cute costume will fit!!! :thumbsup2


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I like it! It is perfect for her age!
I hope it fits!

:cool1:

Hey! You snuck in on me! :laughing: Thanks so much... keep your fingers crossed for me!!


Kathy

[mommytothreeboys]

Very nice costume! I think the hat is my favorite part! :goodvibes

Crossing my fingers that it fits! :)

[KathyRN137]

Very nice costume! I think the hat is my favorite part! :goodvibes

Crossing my fingers that it fits! :)


Thanks!! Tricia likes the hat, too! (But it doesn't come with the costume.) :rolleyes: Ah well, so what's a little more money?!

Kathy

[cjackearl]

Hi Kathy! I'm sad I missed all of the cosume talk, but I really hope the new one fits and ends the drama.:thumbsup2

[KathyRN137]

Hi Kathy! I'm sad I missed all of the cosume talk, but I really hope the new one fits and ends the drama.:thumbsup2

I'm not quite celebrating just yet.... ;)

There's always room for more drama in our house!! :rotfl:


Kathy

[kaysmommie]

Drama and girls just kind of goes together at this age. We have it already with Kaylee and she is only 9 :rolleyes1. Anyway that costumes is really cute, hope it fits her.

[KathyRN137]

Drama and girls just kind of goes together at this age. We have it already with Kaylee and she is only 9 :rolleyes1. Anyway that costumes is really cute, hope it fits her.


Thanks... I need all the positive thoughts and pixie dust I can get!!! :goodvibes


Kathy

[joy13]

Those tights sound perfect! I really hope the costume fits!

[carissanboys]

Love the new costume choice - very cute!! :thumbsup2

[nu2wdisneyw]

Oh-my! I missed all of the costume debate....us ladies are SOOO picky! I really like the final choice. I am going to pray that it fits!!

[KathyRN137]

Still waiting..... and weighting....


Those tights sound perfect! I really hope the costume fits!

Love the new costume choice - very cute!! :thumbsup2

Oh-my! I missed all of the costume debate....us ladies are SOOO picky! I really like the final choice. I am going to pray that it fits!!


Thank you, thank you, and thank you!!! :goodvibes

Well, no deliveries yet (although I was kind of hoping Tricia's potential costume would arrive today!) Bummer.

I've been searching in earnest for my own costume ideas and getting disgusted... not with the costumes... but with the SIZE costume I would need. :rolleyes2 Uggh!! I have just gained so much weight over the past 4-5 years.... I really notice it when I see pictures of myself.


And so, I've decided that I am going to try (in ernest) to drop some pounds before Disney. Well... not pounds, really. I'm less interested in what the scale says and more interested in getting to a smaller dress size. :thumbsup2

I'm debating whether to change my signature and add a weight loss ticker. It's kind of personal, but I'm thinking that if I force myself to share my failure or success with my DIS-friends that I will be more motivated to stay on target. I know that there's an entire board devoted to this stuff... but frankly, I'm already spending more than enough time DIS-ing here on the TR boards when I should be out walking!! :rolleyes1

The only other thing is that if I put a weight loss ticker in my siggie, I'll have to delete some of my siggie images. Hmmm. I may just give weekly updates or something like that... but then I don't get the benefit of the "public" ticker... :confused:

What do you think??


Kathy

[jordanyosh]

I say do what you know will be motivating for you.

You know what that is already, I think.

[DearDaisyinDurham]

Whatever you decide, we're with you!! I am also losing for Mickey, so getting back to walking. I am working to picture every step I take and every pound I drop will be healthy for my <3 (((((HUGS)))))

[joy13]

Good luck on your weight loss goals - if you remove some images for a ticker it may motivate you to get rid of the ticker faster, so you can put the images back in.

[Charleston Princess]

I will gladly be a cheerleader for you, Kathy!!! I'll even get out my pom-poms! :cheer2:

[KathyRN137]

I say do what you know will be motivating for you.

You know what that is already, I think.

You are wise, Grasshopper. :goodvibes

Whatever you decide, we're with you!! I am also losing for Mickey, so getting back to walking. I am working to picture every step I take and every pound I drop will be healthy for my <3 (((((HUGS)))))

It's not a battle this time, it's a war!!

Does <3 mean what I think it means?? (The thing I need to get up and moving??) :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:

Good luck on your weight loss goals - if you remove some images for a ticker it may motivate you to get rid of the ticker faster, so you can put the images back in.

Great idea!! :idea:

I will gladly be a cheerleader for you, Kathy!!! I'll even get out my pom-poms! :cheer2:

Awww, thanks CP... you're the best!! :hug:


Kathy

[moparop]

Well, right now I'll just be your cheerleader, but once I deliver this baby I am all about dropping QUITE a few pounds. We're headed to see Mickey next September and I'd like to be at least 50 pounds less than I am today.
:hug:

[moparop]

Well, right now I'll just be your cheerleader, but once I deliver this baby I am all about joining you and dropping QUITE a few pounds. We're headed to see Mickey next September and I'd like to be at least 50 pounds less than I am today.
:hug:

Guess I am so dedicated to supporting you, I posted twice! :lmao:

[KathyRN137]

Guess I am so dedicated to supporting you, I posted twice! :lmao:


:rotfl2: Thanks, Mop!!

How're you feeling, BTW??


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

... I'm less interested in what the scale says and more interested in getting to a smaller dress size. :thumbsup2



Well, as Jordan guessed, I didn't need much arm-twisting to make my decision!! :rotfl2:

I did say that I was more interested in going down a couple of sizes and not too worried about actual pounds, but the only choices for weight-loss tickers seem to be measured in pounds or BMI... so I decided to put pounds on there just to have some sort of measurement. I've heard that each ten pounds is a dress size, so that's how I came up with 20lb.

Wish me luck... even Pooh Bear is going to excercise with me!! pooh: I just hope I don't bust any of my stitches!!


Kathy

[mrsksomeday]

When it isn't so hot around here (right now it feels like we are on th surface of the sun) I like to walk around the college campus across the street from us. I put Disney podcasts (usually from be our guest) and Disney music on my MP3 player and listen to it when I am walking. That is a motivator for me :thumbsup2.

I love you no matter what size you are, but I do completely understand wanting to feel more healthy :hug:.

[DisMomAmy]

Love the new ticker! :thumbsup2

:cheer2: Go Kathy Go!! :cheer2:

[KathyRN137]

I love you no matter what size you are, but I do completely understand wanting to feel more healthy :hug:.

Aww, thanks Tracy! You're certainly an inspiration for me! :goodvibes

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Love the new ticker! :thumbsup2

:cheer2: Go Kathy Go!! :cheer2:


Thanks Amy!! :thumbsup2


Kathy

[mommytothreeboys]

We're all rooting for you Kathy! :thumbsup2

[irish dancer]

Can I join the cheering squad? :cheer2:

Best of luck to you, I know you can do it!! It's always easier when there's motivation. Maybe I'll join you!

[moparop]

:rotfl2: Thanks, Mop!!

How're you feeling, BTW??


Kathy

I am doing ok. I have gestational diabetes with my pregnancy so that adds extra vigilance on my part, but between the multiple finger poking, the meal plan, and a moderate dosage of Glyburide I am getting along pretty well. I still am down 5 pounds from where I was the day I got pregnant, so things are going pretty well. I have had a history of pre-eclampsia, but so far so good! My blood pressure has been great and my OB is amazed!

As summer is heating up and my belly is getting rounder, September seems AWFUL far away! :scared:

[brookelizabeth]

LOVE that new Pirate costume! It's really really cute-and very age appropriate. It will look really great with leggings or footless tights. Is she still going to go with the boots, or with flats like the model? The flats look cute, but I think boots would be fun too! I hope it fits!

Weight loss---I know about this! :thumbsup2 Last year I decided to join WeightWatchers Online in late May. By the time we visited Mickey in November, I was down about 35 pounds. I was diligent, but really never exercised, and would "cheat" quite a bit. My goal was 40 pounds, which I never reached. I have gained a few back from my lowest because I haven't been as diligent in watching what I eat-but I'm still much happier than where I was. I just got to that same point you are at now where nothing fit the way you wanted-you didn't like the size, etc. I was determined! It was a GREAT decision and I'm so glad I took those months to get healthy.

If you are interested in WeightWatchers you can pretty much Google the plan to find out what your daily points should be, find recipes, find a points calculator, etc. I have a friend who does it just by Googling-she doesn't pay for the plan or anything.

Sometimes it does take about 15 pounds to loose your first dress size, but then it's about every 10 pounds. Just depends on your body type. I think my first size came off right around 12 pounds.

I wish you the best in this-we will be cheering you on!

I LOVE the idea about walking with the iPod and listening to the Podcasts and Disney music, that makes it all so much more bearable. :goodvibes

[KathyRN137]

As summer is heating up and my belly is getting rounder, September seems AWFUL far away! :scared:


Uggh! Third trimester in the summer... I feel for you! Hope the last weeks don't drag too much... but I'm sure the boys are keeping you hopping!

Sounds like you've got the GDM under control... as though you don't already have enough to think about!! :rolleyes:

You don't need me to tell you this, but it will all be worth it when you finally get to look into that precious little face!! :cloud9:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

We're all rooting for you Kathy! :thumbsup2

Can I join the cheering squad? :cheer2:

Best of luck to you, I know you can do it!! It's always easier when there's motivation. Maybe I'll join you!



Weight loss---I know about this! :thumbsup2 Last year I decided to join WeightWatchers Online in late May. By the time we visited Mickey in November, I was down about 35 pounds.

I wish you the best in this-we will be cheering you on!



Oh Goody!! My grass-roots support group is growing!!

Seriously, though, I appreciate all your words of encouragement. ::yes::

Brook, congratulations on your weight loss. :goodvibes I wish I could say that mine is baby weight, but its hard to do that when your baby is eleven years old!! :lmao:

My family has been supportive, too. Today we all took a "family walk" and I think that a general increase in activity will be good for Billy, too. The weather plays an important role in my activity level, because my favorite activity is walking outside.

We got a Wii for Christmas so I may buy the board accessory so we can all do something when it is raining (which it has been, a lot) or when it eventually gets really hot and humid (which it will!)

I'm considering the Weight Watchers on line... for now I've cut out sweets, which is very hard for me. I couldn't even make it through one day... I broke down last night and had a little Hershey's syrup in a glass of lowfat milk!! :rolleyes: Oh well, better than the big ole bowl of ice cream I've been having every night!!

Ahhh, little steps...


Kathy

[Hedy]

Has Billy heard about the changes to Hall of Presidents? http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2009/06/barack_obama_joins_disneys_hal.html

[IluvXU]

weight... I can relate. I was in a good place after Emily, I worked out and was dedicated and saw results. Then I got pregnant, had Luke, and am off the wagon. I hope to get better again...

[KathyRN137]

weight... I can relate. I was in a good place after Emily, I worked out and was dedicated and saw results. Then I got pregnant, had Luke, and am off the wagon. I hope to get better again...


Welcome back, Laura!! :cool1:

You chose the perfect word: dedicated. I haven't been very dedicated to my own health and it shows! :sad2: Thanks for joining in with your support; I really appreciate it!!

BTW, Luke is so adorable!! :angel:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Has Billy heard about the changes to Hall of Presidents? http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2009/06/barack_obama_joins_disneys_hal.html

Well, now, that's hard to say. :scratchin

He does know that our president has changed, and he certainly recognizes Pres. Obama, but I'm not sure how that translates into his understanding of the effect that will have on HOP. *Thanks for reminding me... I really do need to go over this with him before the trip!

I'm thinking that if he easily accepted all the changes to Playhouse Disney, Live, he should be okay with the changes to HOP!!;)

(Fun blog entry, BTW!!)

Kathy

[brookelizabeth]

You have the right attitude-little steps is what it's all about! I'm a big believer in not cutting out ANYTHING, but just finding ways to making it healther and doing less portions (or smaller portions) of it. Like your bit of chocolate syrup with the lowfat milk-perfect! It got that craving before you went for the big 'ol bowl of ice cream. :thumbsup2

I need to remind myself of this lately too!!! :headache: My weakness is french fries and cheeseburgers...:sad2:

[cjackearl]

Oh Kathy, I am right there with you, sister! I've never weighted as much as I do now and I'm ready to do some serious work. Our car right home from NC today was the last hurrah, junk food wise, and excercise begins Monday. I'll help you if you help me. Deal?

[KathyRN137]

You have the right attitude-little steps is what it's all about! I'm a big believer in not cutting out ANYTHING, but just finding ways to making it healther and doing less portions (or smaller portions) of it.


Oh Kathy, I am right there with you, sister! I've never weighed as much as I do now and I'm ready to do some serious work. Our car right home from NC today was the last hurrah, junk food wise, and excercise begins Monday. I'll help you if you help me. Deal?


You're both right! I think we ALL could benefit from helping each other... eating right is so hard, especially when you've allowed yourself to get into bad habits.

Disney is not my only addiction... Sugar seems to be my drug of choice!! :rolleyes1

I've begun to cut out sweet tea and soda and drink flavored seltzer and water instead. Now that it's getting warmer and I'm drinking so much more, I figure I'll eliminate a whole lot of sugar that way!!


Kathy

[Dreamer & Wisher]

Oh Goody!! My grass-roots support group is growing!!

Seriously, though, I appreciate all your words of encouragement. ::yes::

Brook, congratulations on your weight loss. :goodvibes I wish I could say that mine is baby weight, but its hard to do that when your baby is eleven years old!! :lmao:

My family has been supportive, too. Today we all took a "family walk" and I think that a general increase in activity will be good for Billy, too. The weather plays an important role in my activity level, because my favorite activity is walking outside.

We got a Wii for Christmas so I may buy the board accessory so we can all do something when it is raining (which it has been, a lot) or when it eventually gets really hot and humid (which it will!)

I'm considering the Weight Watchers on line... for now I've cut out sweets, which is very hard for me. I couldn't even make it through one day... I broke down last night and had a little Hershey's syrup in a glass of lowfat milk!! :rolleyes: Oh well, better than the big ole bowl of ice cream I've been having every night!!

Ahhh, little steps...


Kathy
Good luck with the weight loss plan. I am right here with you. One of the reasons I bought my new Keen sandals is so I could walk comfortably. It is so hot here in Georgia and sneakers are really uncomfortable. I have to wait until after 8:00 to go walking because any other time it is unbearably hot. The kids got new bikes so Ethan is riding along with his training wheels and Abby rides circles around us or we take one of the dogs with us. Then I have been doing some yoga stretches.
The Wii fit board is great. Abby has a lot of fun with it and I like the hula hoop and the step aerobics. Sometimes I do the yoga but I prefer to do it on the carpeted floor upstairs without the Fit Board.

Love Winnie the pooh! The little picture of him makes me think of the song he sings when he is doing that. I think it has a line that goes something like this: I increase my appetite when I exercise!:rotfl:

[familyblackout]

I just read all your old trip reports, and I just wanted to come out of lurkdom and say hi! :flower3:
I love reading about your trips, and your family. You really are a great writer!
And, seeing you add a weight ticker inspired me to add my own!! Hopefully it will keep me a more dedicated- I was at a weight I liked and then got lazy/stressed/busy and now I keep starting (and re-starting) my diet/exercise commitment. :rolleyes1
MNSSHP looks like such a blast- I hope you guys have a great time! I haven't read the entire PTR yet, but I'm sure I'll be "casually" checking in on it for the next few days until I have! :rotfl2:

[kimmylaj]

just wanted to pop in and say hi, i have been neglecting the dis a bit. terrible i know. but the end of school has so much going on and i start working at camp tomorrow. i love the teen pirate costume. if i was young and thin i'd wear it. (but dont tell the girls if they find out someone my age likes it they might decide not to wear it lol) and good for you with the dress size loss goal. i am all talk and no action. i gotta get moving. so i'll encourage you and then when i see your ticker moving, it will hopefully encourage me to catch up. :cheer2:go kathy go:cheer2:

[KathyRN137]

Good luck with the weight loss plan. I am right here with you.... The Wii fit board is great. Abby has a lot of fun with it and I like the hula hoop and the step aerobics.


I've tried a couple of times to get the board, but the stores around here sell out fast... I'll have to special order or perhaps get it on line.

We like the bowling and the carnival games... but you don't get too aerobic with those!! It's fun, though, because the whole family can play! :thumbsup2


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I just read all your old trip reports, and I just wanted to come out of lurkdom and say hi! :flower3:
I love reading about your trips, and your family. You really are a great writer!
And, seeing you add a weight ticker inspired me to add my own!! Hopefully it will keep me a more dedicated- I was at a weight I liked and then got lazy/stressed/busy and now I keep starting (and re-starting) my diet/exercise commitment. :rolleyes1


Hello and :welcome: aboard!!

Our last trip was very mellow compared to the one in '07 with Aunt Rae... makes for a great vacation, but kind of makes for a boring report!! :rolleyes: I'm sure with the two 13 year olds there will be plenty of drama in the next one... hopefully only the "good" kind!!!

Thanks so much for the weight-loss support... there's just something about having that ticker there for all your friends to see that seems like it would be a good motivator! It also will remind me not to spend too much time sitting and :surfweb: and to spend more time out exercising!! :yay:

[KathyRN137]

.... and good for you with the dress size loss goal. i am all talk and no action. i gotta get moving. so i'll encourage you and then when i see your ticker moving, it will hopefully encourage me to catch up. :cheer2:go kathy go:cheer2:


Thanks, Kimmie!! :goodvibes

Good to have you back!


Kathy

[miabellarose]

I've begun to cut out sweet tea and soda and drink flavored seltzer and water instead. Now that it's getting warmer and I'm drinking so much more, I figure I'll eliminate a whole lot of sugar that way!!
Kathy

Last year, I stopped drinking regular soda pop and stopped eating fast food, and that helped me lose most of the weight I lost last year (about 20lbs.) So you cutting out sweet tea and soda should really help you out. I've had a hard time getting back into the groove of things this year, and I keep telling myself that I'll start eating healthier tomorrow; but tomorrow is Monday, beginning of a new week...so I'll start with you! Thanks for the motivation!

[KathyRN137]

Last year, I stopped drinking regular soda pop and stopped eating fast food, and that helped me lose most of the weight I lost last year (about 20lbs.) So you cutting out sweet tea and soda should really help you out. I've had a hard time getting back into the groove of things this year, and I keep telling myself that I'll start eating healthier tomorrow; but tomorrow is Monday, beginning of a new week...so I'll start with you! Thanks for the motivation!


You're welcome!! :goodvibes Glad to have one more of us trying to get healthier!!

I believe that there are as many as TWELVE teaspoons of sugar in a glass of soda! Now that the seltzers come in so many flavors (lemon-lime, rasberry, black cherry, orange), its really a simple change that I can make!!

Don't know why I got back into the bad habit of drinking sweet tea... guess it just tasted so good!!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

On a Scale of One to Twenty...


Thanks for all the words of support on my weight-loss project... I really do appreciate it!! :grouphug:

I will only be weighing myself once a week... so it may be awhile before the ticker moves... but eventually, it WILL move!! :laughing:

On a semi-trip-planning note, I did pull out the storage container that holds all of our matching WDW shirts the other day. As the kids get bigger, some of the "sets" will no longer be complete... unless I can replace their shirts somehow. No matter, there are still a lot of nice shirts that do fit!

Which got me thinking... over the years I've collected some very nice WDW tee-shirts that, unfortunately, have been banished to storage because of my weight gain... they no longer fit me comfortably. That's just one more motivator for me!! :thumbsup2 I'd love to be able to wear these again!!

Like many women, I have three sets of clothes: My "skinny" clothes, my "average" clothes, and my "fat" clothes! :lmao: My goal is to get out of my "fat" clothes and down to my "average" clothes by our next trip in four months. Of course, the ultimate goal will be to get down to the "skinny" wardrobe, but I'm just going to take it one step at a time for now.... otherwise, it just seems too overwhelming!!

Thanks again for the support!!


Kathy

[Charleston Princess]

You can do it, Kathy!!! :cheer2:

Can't wait to see the matching t-shirts for this trip! :thumbsup2

[DearDaisyinDurham]

I believe that there are as many as TWELVE teaspoons of sugar in a glass of soda! Now that the seltzers come in so many flavors (lemon-lime, rasberry, black cherry, orange), its really a simple change that I can make!!

Don't know why I got back into the bad habit of drinking sweet tea... guess it just tasted so good!!


Kathy

:goodvibes We dropped pop also & started drinking Nestle Pure Life Sparkling water (carbonated spring water) comes in a 1 liter bottle, you can get plain (my fave) or lemon or lime (DH's fave) - once in a while we miss pop but this is healthier & we do like it
I find it a bit "lighter" than Perrier - & I never used to like sparkling water so was surprised to be such a convert :thumbsup2

[DearDaisyinDurham]

:rotfl2: ummm I meant H-E-A-R-T, healthy for your <3 :lovestruc :rotfl: you crack me up!!

[moparop]

I thought of you tonight Kathy - We went out for a family walk, including the old and feeble dog. What a great bit of exercise for all of us!

I am hoping it's our first of many to come this summer.

[KathyRN137]

:rotfl2: ummm I meant H-E-A-R-T, healthy for your <3 :lovestruc :rotfl: you crack me up!!



Whoops! I guess I was looking at it upside down!! :laughing: My heart could use it, but I think my <3 needs it more!!

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

You can do it, Kathy!!! :cheer2:

Can't wait to see the matching t-shirts for this trip! :thumbsup2


Thanks for the cheer...

:scratchin I may have to make some new shirts, not only because Tricia & Billy are growing, but because Caity will be coming along, too!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I thought of you tonight Kathy - We went out for a family walk, including the old and feeble dog. What a great bit of exercise for all of us!

I am hoping it's our first of many to come this summer.


That's great!!

We did another one today... went for a little over a mile... Aimee the dog is thrilled! :dog:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Pirate Lass Costume Arrived Today!!


...finally!!

For those who need to refresh the mental image...

http://www.costumeexpress.com/Pirate-Lass-Teen-Costume/61943/ProductDetail.aspx

She tried it on and it....just....fit!! :rolleyes: She's only thirteen, but has already filled out, kwim? Anyway, she thinks its adorable.... although she did say she felt a bit like a cross between a Pirate and a Bavarian barmaid!! :rotfl: It will definitely need the opaque tights underneath... and maybe even a pair of shorts, too... the jagged skirt is very short. At least her chest and shoulders will be covered!!

I'm going to disappoint you all by making you wait for pix... :duck:

I'd like to get all of our costumes together, first! Anyway, Tricia's was the one that concerned me the most, so I am very relieved that we got that taken care of! :thumbsup2

I've been looking for costume ideas for me and, needless to say, a short skirt is not an option! :laughing: On the other hand, a long skirt would be a bit cumbersome on rides.

I've seen pirate/harem pants on a few websites, and they may be a good option! Here is an example, for those readers *cough*Jordan*cough* who may not know what harem pants are:

http://www.tudordressing.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=14&products_id=89




Kathy

[MinnieNurse]

Good luck with the weight loss.

I know what you mean about the fat, average, and skinny clothes in your closet. I have a set of each of those in mine as well. Do you think all women are like this? I know most of my friends are.

[DearDaisyinDurham]

Like the idea of harem pants, cute, relaxed and will look great w/ sandals :thumbsup2

[cjackearl]

I'm glad the costume came in and fits! Love it.

I was actually pondering harem pants today. I heard a remake of Can't Touch This by MC Hammer on Radio Disney. Hammer time!:rotfl:

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, I am so glad Tricia's costume fits and she likes it! That is a big thing to check of the list! :thumbsup2

[Hedy]

I'm glad it fit!
Kathy-have you considered gauchos as a bottom layer? Loose fitting, light weight, re-wearable?

[joy13]

Glad to hear that the costume fits and she likes it!

[GlassSlippers]

Ooooh! Harem pants are soooo comfy! Get yourself a poet shirt and a sash and you'll be good to go! Pretty too!

[KathyRN137]

Good luck with the weight loss.

I know what you mean about the fat, average, and skinny clothes in your closet. I have a set of each of those in mine as well. Do you think all women are like this? I know most of my friends are.

I think it must be a universal phenomenon!!

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I'm glad the costume came in and fits! Love it.


Oh, I am so glad Tricia's costume fits and she likes it! That is a big thing to check of the list! :thumbsup2

I'm glad it fit!

Glad to hear that the costume fits and she likes it!


Thanks, everybody!! :goodvibes What a relief!!

I'm glad my daughter has a nice figure, but we're just not quite ready to see it pushed up and out there quite yet!! :rolleyes:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Like the idea of harem pants, cute, relaxed and will look great w/ sandals :thumbsup2

I think so! A skirt might be uncomfortable... and I do want to be comfortable!


Kathy-have you considered gauchos as a bottom layer? Loose fitting, light weight, re-wearable?

I have, Hedy! And I still may choose to go that route... only thing is... the gauchos would necessitate boots and I'm not sure if I want to wear boots for 7-8 hours in the Magic Kingdom.

Ooooh! Harem pants are soooo comfy! Get yourself a poet shirt and a sash and you'll be good to go! Pretty too!

Thanks... I'm looking for something that will work no matter what the weather... it can be so darn unpredictable! Poet shirts are so pretty!


I was actually pondering harem pants today. I heard a remake of Can't Touch This by MC Hammer on Radio Disney. Hammer time!:rotfl:

:lmao: I remember him!! He made those pants so popular! Don't know if I want to get them in gold lame, however!!

http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w219/tbbiscuit/Hammer.jpg

Kathy

[All7OfUs]

Hi Kathy!

So glad to be feeing "normal" again, and back into the swing of things! Yikes, jetlag was soooo bad this time!

So, let's see, weight loss. You have plenty of time to lose 20 pounds. I'll be watching that ticker and be cheering you on. Watch those sodas and little "snacks"-- you know... the ones that don't seem like much but add up. At least that's my problem. You. CAN. Do. It!!!! :cheer2:

So glad to see the costumes are working out, too. what a relief that Tricia likes what arrived. Can't wait to see the whole fam. in all their Halloween splendor! :thumbsup2

Liesa

P.S. We've put up several new updates since our mini-meet in Nashville- come on over and see what we did :cool2:

[DisMomAmy]

I'm so glad the costume fits! And that Tricia like it!

I think the harem pants would be perfect! :thumbsup2

[carissanboys]

I'm with you on the weight loss Kathy! Before we moved back to the states from Australia, I lost 20 lbs by eating healthy and walking an hour every day. I felt great! Then we moved back and things got crazy. Now I've gained back that 20 plus 5 more. :sad2: I know I can do it, just hard to get motivated some days. But, I totally have the 3 sets of clothes like you described. :rotfl:

Good luck!

And glad Tricia's costume arrived and just fit. :thumbsup2

[KathyRN137]

Hi Kathy!

So glad to be feeing "normal" again, and back into the swing of things! Yikes, jetlag was soooo bad this time!

So, let's see, weight loss. You have plenty of time to lose 20 pounds. I'll be watching that ticker and be cheering you on. Watch those sodas and little "snacks"-- you know... the ones that don't seem like much but add up. At least that's my problem. You. CAN. Do. It!!!! :cheer2:

So glad to see the costumes are working out, too. what a relief that Tricia likes what arrived. Can't wait to see the whole fam. in all their Halloween splendor! :thumbsup2

Liesa

P.S. We've put up several new updates since our mini-meet in Nashville- come on over and see what we did :cool2:


I will... probably at lunchtime... I'm off to work now. :rolleyes:

Glad you're back to normal life again; I'm sure your family missed you terribly.


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I'm so glad the costume fits! And that Tricia like it!

I think the harem pants would be perfect! :thumbsup2


:teeth: :teeth: :teeth: Thanks, Amy! (I was just over looking at your camping pictures!)


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

...... I know I can do it, just hard to get motivated some days. But, I totally have the 3 sets of clothes like you described. :rotfl:

And glad Tricia's costume arrived and just fit. :thumbsup2


She's not allowed to grow any taller in the next four months! :laughing:

I think one thing that motivates me is that I am refusing to buy any more "fat clothes" when I have so much in my closet that would fit if I got down a size or two!!! :rolleyes1

But its the same with a lot of moms... so busy taking care of everyone else that we're too tired to take care of ourselves!

Thanks for the support...


Kathy

[mommytothreeboys]

I'm so glad the costume for Tricia fits and that's one less thing for you to worry about! Get the hardest thing out of the way first!

I love the MC Hammer pants....they look comfortable and they'd be easy to accessorize to make a costume. Good choice. (LOL at the pic of MC in his gold pants! :rotfl:)

I'm pulling for you on the weight loss issue! It's such a battle, isn't it? Oh for the days when we could eat whatever we wanted and didn't pay for it with big hips! ;)

[mom2mek]

Yay! I'm so glad the costume fits and that she likes it! :thumbsup2 That's such a relief. Now, stunt her growth for the next 4 months, K?

I like the idea of the gauchos pants - seem cooler to me! You could probably still get away with wearing some sandals of some kind with the gauchos - I mean, people wear sneakers with their costumes, right? I think you could go for what's comfortable for your feet.

(I'm with ya on the clothes thing....ugh....I really need to do something as well! It's so hard to get motivated,so kudos to you!!! :thumbsup2 )

Sara

[eandesmom]

first of all:cheer2::cheer2::cheer2::cheer2::cheer2::cheer2 : on your weight loss plan...you can do it! Sounds like you are off to a good start already.


and secondly :cool1: that the pirate lass costume works! Whoo hoo!

I like the idea of harem pants and sandals...Boots could be a bit much for 7 hours!

[KathyRN137]

I'm so glad the costume for Tricia fits and that's one less thing for you to worry about! Get the hardest thing out of the way first!

I love the MC Hammer pants....they look comfortable and they'd be easy to accessorize to make a costume. Good choice. (LOL at the pic of MC in his gold pants! :rotfl:)

I'm pulling for you on the weight loss issue! It's such a battle, isn't it? Oh for the days when we could eat whatever we wanted and didn't pay for it with big hips! ;)


I know! I think my metabolism has slowed to a screaming halt!!

Tricia's costume was the hardest... next comes mine. Why is it always so much easier for the boys?? :rolleyes:

Kathy

[irish dancer]

Yeah!! So glad the costume fits and that she likes it which I know was at least half the battle, lol.

[mousescrapper]

Has Billy heard about the changes to Hall of Presidents? http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2009/06/barack_obama_joins_disneys_hal.html

Hedy....

thanks for including this post...that was a cool blog post to read. We are looking forward to seeing the new additions and updates! :thumbsup2



Kathy!

1) YAY the costume fits and she still likes it, what a huge relief :cool1: pirate:


2) Cheers to you and thanks for sharing your healthy change and weight loss ticker with us all....:cheer2: I know you can do it for yourself, your kids and Mickey too.;)

as for the Wii Fit, it can be a great fun workout, I have actually felt sore after doing 30 minutes of strength, yoga and areobic fun! Michael's pschatrist says children w/ HFA and probably even autism can greatly benfit from a daily 30 min of physical activity. Micahel is a bit sedatary by nature but enjoys the Wii, so I am hoping to compell me to shed a few pounds myself and stay fit to do some workouts with him. I hope to do the run for 2...it should be fun and helpful for both of us. My plan is to start next week after he is done w/ swim lessons. wish me luck, I'll think of you too !

3) the Mc Hammer pants....oh man :3dglasses I was in HS when he was top dog and so remeber that, I think I even had a pair of pants like that (not gold but still bad enough). Plus one of his songs from a movie about a monster family...well that just brings back a gazillion of laughable memories! :dance3: :lmao:

[KathyRN137]

Yeah!! So glad the costume fits and that she likes it which I know was at least half the battle, lol.

When she looked in the mirror and said, "It's sooooooo cute!" I was soooooooo happy and sooooooo relieved!! :laughing:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

2) Cheers to you and thanks for sharing your healthy change and weight loss ticker with us all....:cheer2: I know you can do it for yourself, your kids and Mickey too.;)

My plan is to start next week after he is done w/ swim lessons. wish me luck, I'll think of you too !




Thanks Scrappie,

Good luck with the Wii Fit plan... Billy does like walking the dog and jumping on his trampoline, but I think that his love of all things audio-video will be a real draw when it comes to playing (exercising) on the Wii! And I may get some benefit as a happy side effect!! :goodvibes

Kathy

[joy13]

LOL on the picture of MC Hammer :rotfl:

I can't remember if you have a Wii or are going to get one, but a few friend's of mine (we don't have one) were talking about Wii fit being more fun, but Wii active (which I guess is cheaper) being a better workout. I just thought I'd throw that out there :) The nice thing this time of year is it's easy to get outside for walks :thumbsup2

[KathyRN137]

The nice thing this time of year is it's easy to get outside for walks :thumbsup2

Yes... except we've been having so much rain here the past few weeks!! I was all set to go on a nice long walk this afternoon when the sky began to get dark and the biggest thunderstorm hit! :eek: Glad I didn't get caught in the rain, but it made me miss my walk. :headache:

We have the Wii, just not the board accessory. I want to get that, not only for the excercise programs, but because Billy got a music program and the drums only work if you have a board. I will definitely investigate all the Wii stuff and pick something that is not too hard (because then I won't do it) and not too easy (because then I won't get enough of a workout.)

Right now, I'm looking to burn calories and raise my metabolism, so it will definitely have to be something aerobic. I should just try to dance along with Hammer... that should burn calories!! :rotfl:

Thanks for popping in!!

Kathy

[MEK]

Hi Kathy:

Just found your PTR! Looks like I've got a lot of catching up to do! :rotfl:

[KathyRN137]

Hi Kathy:

Just found your PTR! Looks like I've got a lot of catching up to do! :rotfl:

Hey Mary Ellen!

Yes, I'm sorry that I haven't had time to post chapter links like I did in my Trip Report (I just learned how!) Perhaps when I get some time I will do that.

PTRs are a bit different, though. Sometimes there's a lot of stuff covered in the "chatter!"

Thanks for dropping by!! :flower3:


Kathy

[MinnieNurse]

Any progress on your costume? I do like the MC Hammer pants, I think they would be very comfortable.

Is this the month you were going to have your party? I couldnt remember.

[Mommy2LittleVols]

The Cast: (con't.)



:love: BILLY :love:


Most of you know my DS, Billy, from past TRs, but for the benefit of any new friends here, it is important for you to have a little background info. As the title suggests, this trip will be yet another in a string of endless adventures for a family touched by Autism.

Don’t let the creepy spider image frighten you; feel free to post or PM me if you have any questions….the others will tell you that I don’t bite!

You may (or may not) know a lot about ASD (Autistic Spectrum Disorders), so let me tell you a little about my son…


Warning: This is a Kleenex Alert…

Billy was diagnosed with PDD (Pervasive Developmental Disorder) shortly before his third birthday. Up until the age of about 12-18 months, he hit all the expected developmental milestones and was pointing, talking, and walking as well as any other child of that age. He was a happy, healthy, normal baby boy. Then, slowly, things started to change. At first, the changes were barely imperceptible, but by the time he had reached age two, he had changed completely.


He no longer used any words and made only sounds to communicate. He no longer held my gaze. He developed a strange sort of gait…he walked up on his toes all the time and seemed to just go round and round the room as if on some sort of invisible track. When he was excited, he would do what we (then) laughingly referred to as “the dance of joy.” He would bounce up and down and wave his arms about in a flapping motion.


He stopped eating a lot of foods…their texture or smell seemed to bother him. What he would eat, he would stuff and stuff into his mouth to the point he could not even chew it and he would gag. He had strange behaviors, such as sniffing objects and people, and he seemed to be putting more and more things into his mouth to chew on…even more than when he had been a baby.


He did not play with his toys appropriately. There was no imaginative play, he just gravitated to infant toys with lights and sounds and he would sit and push the buttons over and over. Even so, he could not tell me what his favorite toy was…nor his favorite color…nor his favorite video. He was two years old and he couldn’t tell his Mommy anything at all.


Obviously, he was not developing normally. At the time I really knew nothing about autism. My understanding of autistic children was that they sat in a corner all day, saying and doing nothing, just living in their own little world. And that description did not seem to fit my child. :confused: I was confused; I did not know anyone who had an autistic child and this was right before the media began paying some attention to the epidemic.


At his routine 2 ½ year checkup, I finally insisted that my pediatrician order further evaluation. After a long and frustrating multi-disciplinary evaluation process, were given the vague diagnosis of PDD and a list of Special Ed pre-school programs in the area. It was devastating. I remember talking to the case manager assigned to Billy once after visiting one of the schools and trying to express my concerns:


“I just want him to be able….to be able to….to…” I searched in vain for the words I was looking for. The social worker nodded as if she understood and finished my sentence for me:

“…to be able to function in society.” To. Function. in. Society.


That’s when it finally hit me, full force. This was way, way beyond a speech problem. Before that moment, I hadn’t realized that there was any question about whether or not he would be able to basically function in society.

It was so hard, so very hard to accept. We all gaze into our newborns’ faces and dream such wonderful dreams for them. I had the same dreams for Billy, and now they were crushed.


He would never be captain of the team; never play organized sports like his big brother.

He would (most likely) never attend regular school. And if he were ever to be “mainstreamed”, the kids would make fun of him and label him “retard.”

He would never have any close friends, in the traditional sense. He would never date girls. Relationships were out of the question. He would never have children of his own.

He might never even be able to live independently.


It was a dreadful, horrible time…a time of profound grief. We grieved for the normal child who was born to us and for some unknown reason, had slowly slipped away, never to be seen again. It was 2001, the same year as 9/11. What a horrible year. :sad1: I’m surprised I didn’t wind up in the loony bin.


Good Heavens! I’ve probably frightened away any newcomers with all this….sorry…..it gets better, I promise! We’re getting to the Disney part!



So, let’s fast-forward to 2003. This is the year that Billy turned five. It was the year we were officially given the diagnosis of AUTISM. And, it was the year we discovered Walt Disney World.


Ed had been to Disneyland as a child and to WDW as an adult. I had never been. He would always talk about how great WDW was, how much he knew that I would love it, how it was far superior to ordinary amusement parks, how beautiful the resorts were, etc. etc. I mentioned in my other TR that he had even wanted us to go there for our honeymoon.


Never having had the opportunity to visit the World, I was tempted. But I was uncomfortable with the idea because he and his ex had gone there for their honeymoon, so we chose another destination. We put the idea on the shelf, thinking that we would enjoy WDW as a family once we had children.


When the kids were very small, going to WDW was out of the question for financial reasons. But, as they became older, I felt that it had really become the perfect time to take them and that we should make every effort to do so. But I was concerned about Billy. Would he be able to tolerate all the stimulation? Would he even enjoy it? Would we? :worried:

I’m a big believer in faith, trust, and pixie-dust, but there was no amount of pixie-dust that could magically take away Billy’s autism for a week. We would still have to work around his needs and manage his behaviors while on our vacation.

Back in the fall of ’03, Disney began advertising a seven-for-four deal similar to what they are running now. I began reading every guidebook I could find (this was pre-DIS…in fact….it was pre-internet for me!) I learned that WDW was highly accommodating to guests with special needs and that with a certain amount of planning, I could hope to avoid meltdowns and other problems.

The timing was right. Disney needed to bring in business and our family desperately needed a magical vacation. I booked the trip: seven nights at the Caribbean Beach Resort.

We did, in fact, have a magical time! Billy was five and Tricia seven. Other than him being a bit skittish around non-face characters, Billy did exceptionally well at WDW. In fact, his language ability seemed to be stimulated by the experience and his teachers remarked how much he had “blossomed” after returning from vacation. (We took them both out of school for a week in September b/c I was anxious to go at the time of lowest possible crowd levels.)


Well, you can guess that WDW was a success, because here we are: Disney Vacation Club owners planning our sixth family trip. And Ed was right; I did fall in love with it!

And so did Billy. pixiedust:


To be continued…

Kathy

I have to admit.....this post has me crying like a baby. :sad1: My son just turned 2 and is having similar issues to what you described. He was recently referred for Early Intervention Services and will begin his OT/PT/Psych evals soon. I'm terrified, but at the same time, I'm ready to just know for sure what is going on with him. Knowing that Billy loves WDW and that it is feasible for you all to go there gives me a little piece of mind. So thank you for sharing! :hug:

[KathyRN137]

Knowing that Billy loves WDW and that it is feasible for you all to go there gives me a little piece of mind. So thank you for sharing! :hug:


Hi Julia!

I'm so glad you decided to drop in... you're right, the multidisciplinary evaluation process is a time of great uncertainty and anxiety. I have the benefit of several years time to accept/adjust to the fact that Billy is on the autistic spectrum, but believe me, it was rough. :sad1:

Please PM me if you want to "talk!" :grouphug: I'm so glad you're planning a family trip to WDW and hopefully you can take something away from my reports that will be of some help to you!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r152/mdygdon/flagpicture.jpg


Kathy

[Charleston Princess]

Happy Fourth of July, Kathy!

[joy13]

Same to you Kathy!

[KathyRN137]

Countdown Party and Disney Store Loot!


Well, yesterday Tricia and I took a little Mother-Daughter shopping trip so we could take advantage of some of the fantastic holiday sales. Instead of going to our local mall, we traveled a bit further to a larger mall that has...

... A Disney Store!!! :mickeyjum :donald: :goofy:

After scoring some bathing suits and other clothing for Tricia and Billy at phenomenal sale prices, we stopped for a bite to eat at the food court (Subway... I had one of their lower-fat sandwich selections with a bottle of water... yeah me!!) and then zeroed in on the Disney Store!

I was immediately drawn to a display of "Summertime Fun" entertaining pieces that I had been eyeing on the website, but had been hemming and hawing over purchasing. What a surprise to find that the pieces were 75% off!!! :woohoo: How perfect for our upcoming "99 Days To Disney" party!!



These plates ended up costing around $1.12 a piece, plus tax!

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Disney%20Halloween%2009/DSCN2240.jpg


Wait! There's one missing! :confused3 Oh, I see. Tricia used the Nemo one for her breakfast plate...

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Disney%20Halloween%2009/DSCN2244.jpg


We also got two fun chip bowls to match...

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Disney%20Halloween%2009/DSCN2245.jpg


http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Disney%20Halloween%2009/DSCN2246.jpg


And, of course, if you are serving chips you must have a bowl for dips....

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Disney%20Halloween%2009/DSCN2239.jpg

Note the lime green Mickey Head handle!!! :goodvibes


I was on a mission to get Billy an "Up" tee shirt! There was such a cute one with Dug the dog, but unfortunately, the kids sizes only go up to 10-12 and Billy has outgrown them... so I had to get him a nice-but-significantly-less-cute adult size shirt. He likes it, though, because it has all the balloons on it!

This one was still at full price ($12.00), but I wanted it!

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Disney%20Halloween%2009/DSCN2247.jpg


Tricia, however, found some tee shirts normally $9.50 that were on sale, two for $12.00 so she bought two (with her own money.)

She wasn't interested in Princesses or HSM or Hannah Montana or Jonas Bros. (she is just "too old" for that!!) :snooty: So, she opted for two of the old favorites... Pluto and Goofy!


http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Disney%20Halloween%2009/DSCN2251.jpg


I was about to get on line for check-out when I spotted a display of plush characters from "Up." Now, Billy has a ton of plushies, but he really loved "Up" and to add to the temptation, these were the kind that said different phrases when you pressed their paw.

I could not resist Dug... "My name is Dug! I have just met you, and I love you!" "Will you be my master?" "I am an excellent tracker!"

And, believe it or not, when we saw the movie, Billy laughed and laughed at Alpha, the Doberman, who sounds a whole lot like one of Billy's favorites, Alvin the Chipmunk! "Squirrel!!" "Do not laugh at my voice!" "We are tracking the small mailman and the one who smells like prunes!"

(That line gets me every time!) :laughing:

So, I rationalized that with all the $$ we had saved that day, I could afford to get Billy the plushies to add to his collection....


http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Disney%20Halloween%2009/DSCN2248.jpg



http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/Disney%20Halloween%2009/DSCN2250.jpg



He played with them a long time and even slept with them last night!! So, I am glad that I splurged a little!

This morning we were having breakfast and I was taking the new Disney plates out of the dishwasher... Billy spied them and I guess it triggered something in his brain, because he suddenly announced, "We will call Catie and she will come to our house for a Disney party!"

Wow! Was that a complete sentence, or what?? :lovestruc

So, naturally, we had to grab the phone so he could call his cousin and officially invite her to our house for a pary! party:

I was so happy to hear him speaking appropriately on the phone to his cousin... conversations are difficult enough for him, but even more so on the phone. After he hung up, he took my hand and led me to our calendar so we could circle the date for our "99 Days to Disney Party"... July 22. He actually has school that day (a field trip to a state park) and I'm working a half-day. But, it is the actual day of our coundown, so we'll just plan an afternoon get together.

I'm looking forward to doing a bit 'o trip planning, especially to plan ADRs, which I can finally make on August 1st!! :banana:

On a related note, you may recall that I like to use Tour Guide Mike for his "Least Crowded Parks" charts... they have not failed us in the past three trips. :thumbsup2 Well, with the change in ADR window to 90 days and the release of park hours on the exact 90 days, it has become very difficult for those of us who vacation during the first week of the month to plan ahead. We have to wait for park hours, quickly try to figure out where we'll be on which day, and then plan ADRs accordingly.... all in one day!

Well, TGM has traditionally not released his least crowded parks charts until about 3-4 days later... making it kind of useless to sign up... because by the time he got done, well, most of the important planning had been done! :rolleyes: I guess he must've been losing business because his new policy is to publish the charts for days 1-15 on the first of the month and to edit them with comments in the following days.

I'm really happy with this developement because there have been so many changes at Disney (mainly with limited showings of Fantasmic and SpectroMagic) that seriously affect the crowd levels. It makes it very difficult to plan based upon last year's data.

So, until August 1st, my pre-trip planning will continue to focus on assembling costumes for MNSSHP and planning our pre-trip party. :teeth:

Thanks for reading along!!!


Kathy

[irish dancer]

Happy 4th of July Kathy!

What a great score at the Disney store. Hmmm, I was eyeing those plates and such when they were 50% off but decided against it. Might have to take a swing by the mall and see if they have any left. It sure would brighten up our table!

I'm a TGMer too and it has been making things difficult with Disney releasing hours so late. They also change them a lot after posting them. I really like his forums too so figured what's another $15 or so on top of what we're already paying for our trip. We had an amazing group signed on to the June Vacation Club, someone designed buttons we all wore in the parks and I met a few very nice TGMers while we were there. Have fun planning! I"m living vicariously through you......

[mrsksomeday]

Great finds Kathy! I love the plushes! YAY for Billy wanting to talk about he party, he looks so happy with Dug and Alpha. I have been looking at the 2 for $12 shirts for the kids and the 2 for $15 for the rest of us. I think I might be buying some today!

[KathyRN137]

Great finds Kathy! I love the plushes! YAY for Billy wanting to talk about he party, he looks so happy with Dug and Alpha. I have been looking at the 2 for $12 shirts for the kids and the 2 for $15 for the rest of us. I think I might be buying some today!


pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: for good shopping mojo!!!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Happy 4th of July Kathy!

What a great score at the Disney store. Hmmm, I was eyeing those plates and such when they were 50% off but decided against it. Might have to take a swing by the mall and see if they have any left. It sure would brighten up our table!

I'm a TGMer too and it has been making things difficult with Disney releasing hours so late. They also change them a lot after posting them. I really like his forums too so figured what's another $15 or so on top of what we're already paying for our trip. We had an amazing group signed on to the June Vacation Club, someone designed buttons we all wore in the parks and I met a few very nice TGMers while we were there. Have fun planning! I"m living vicariously through you......


The plates, etc. are really a bargain at 75% off!!! Definitely get them if you can!

I wish I had time to go on the forums at TGM... as it is, I can barely seem to get enough time to DIS. :rolleyes: I love the Least Crowded Parks charts! I signed up for the Unofficial Guide site as well this year... but a lot of the advice conflicts with TGM and what I've learned here on the DIS and through my own experience, so I'm not sure how much weight I'll give to their info.

Vicarious trip enjoyment is fun while waiting for your next vacation countdown ticker... hope yours comes soon! :hug:

Kathy

[DearDaisyinDurham]

LOVED the shopping trip update! :yay:


~Happy 4th of July!!!~

[KathyRN137]

LOVED the shopping trip update! :yay:


~Happy 4th of July!!!~


Thanks, Erin! :flower3:

It's nice to have a bit of time to DIS before we have our cook-out dinner and head over to the fireworks!!

Happy (belated) Canada Day!!


Kathy

[Hedy]

i love the shirts. The plushes are cool too-did they have the Carl public menace shirt there? I think it's hysterical
http://www.disneystore.com/disney/store/DSIProductDisplay?storeId=10051&productId=1246255&categoryId=59008&catalogFromSearch=10002&catalogId=10002&langId=-1

[DisMomAmy]

Great scores at the Disney store!! I love the plushies - very cute!!

I know exactly what you mean about Tour Guide Mike. We had the same problem with our planning this year. Luckily our vacation started at the end of April so I had the information I need to plan those ADRs, but I didn't have the May information quick enough. Not knowing the entertainment schedule for May did made April planning a little tricky... I'm glad to hear TGM has made that change - I haven't been back on his site since our trip - actually I just got a "Good-Bye" email from Mike that my subscription had expired. I was really on the fence about whether I would use the service again - I'll be curious how it works out for you and how many changes he makes after the initial charts are published on the 1st. It's getting closer!! :banana:

[cjackearl]

I've come back three times today and tried to reply to your post with quotes, but I keep getting a your message is too short error.:headache:

Anyway, love your Disney purchases. Yea for bargains! I especially love the dip bowl. I may need that.:rolleyes:

Good choice with the plushies for Billy. He sure looks like he's enjoying his new friends.:hug: That Dug cute, but my favorite was Kevin. Do they make a Kevin plushie?:confused3

Awesome response from Billy re: the Disney party! Sounds like everyone is on board and ready for some fun Disney planning.

[KathyRN137]

i love the shirts. The plushes are cool too-did they have the Carl public menace shirt there? I think it's hysterical
http://www.disneystore.com/disney/store/DSIProductDisplay?storeId=10051&productId=1246255&categoryId=59008&catalogFromSearch=10002&catalogId=10002&langId=-1


They did... I almost got it for him, but then for some reason I didn't think it was suitable for an 11 year old boy to wear. Perhaps older people who didn't know the movie would think it was poking fun at them or something like that.

(I love Carl, too!!)

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I know exactly what you mean about Tour Guide Mike. We had the same problem with our planning this year.... I'll be curious how it works out for you and how many changes he makes after the initial charts are published on the 1st. It's getting closer!! :banana:


I'm hoping all will turn out well. Other than a pre-park opening breakfast at Crystal Palace, none of my ADRs are at super popular places. But even for that one breakfast... how do I know when to schedule it if I don't know which mornings we'll be at MK??

I already know what we'll be doing on October 31st... just relaxing at the resort and doing the MNSSHP later... so having the October hours really doesn't help much. And what's up with the EMHs and the nighttime entertainment?? :confused3 There doesn't seem to be any kind of pattern!

If they would just stick to something like: Spectro every Mon-Wed-Fri and Fantasmic every Tues-Thurs-Sat, it would be so much easier to plan!! :rolleyes:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Good choice with the plushies for Billy. He sure looks like he's enjoying his new friends.:hug: That Dug cute, but my favorite was Kevin. Do they make a Kevin plushie?:confused3


I didn't see any Kevin merchandise and I don't know why... she's a much more integral character than the rest of Alpha's buddies, and they had plushies of them!

Kathy

[irish dancer]

The plates, etc. are really a bargain at 75% off!!! Definitely get them if you can!

I wish I had time to go on the forums at TGM... as it is, I can barely seem to get enough time to DIS. :rolleyes: I love the Least Crowded Parks charts! I signed up for the Unofficial Guide site as well this year... but a lot of the advice conflicts with TGM and what I've learned here on the DIS and through my own experience, so I'm not sure how much weight I'll give to their info.

Vicarious trip enjoyment is fun while waiting for your next vacation countdown ticker... hope yours comes soon! :hug:

Kathy

Really the only forum on TGM that I frequent is my monthly vacation club. They were an invaluable resource for planning. Many of the members are veterans for that time of year and had lots of info. Plus the moderator will PM you when there are any updates/changes to the park info.

As for our next ticker, it might be a while. Currently our plan for next year is to go to HHI for spring/Easter break. There is a slight chance we'll do WDW at Tgiving but that is a big maybe.

[KathyRN137]

As for our next ticker, it might be a while. Currently our plan for next year is to go to HHI for spring/Easter break. There is a slight chance we'll do WDW at Tgiving but that is a big maybe.


HHI sounds like fun! pixiedust: for turkey with Mickey Mouse!!!


Kathy

[IluvXU]

Your pics make me want to go to the Disney store. I love the plates and all the Up Stuff to! Your party will be super fun!

[carissanboys]

Oh my goodness! I am going to have to hit the Disney Store today and see if they have those same dishes! Love them!!! :yay:

[Charleston Princess]

Kathy, I just adore the new Disney summer plates, and what a great sale price on all of them! :thumbsup2

Love that Billy called Catie to invite her to the party! How sweet of him!

[familyblackout]

[I][SIZE="4"]
This morning we were having breakfast and I was taking the new Disney plates out of the dishwasher... Billy spied them and I guess it triggered something in his brain, because he suddenly announced, "We will call Catie and she will come to our house for a Disney party!"

Wow! Was that a complete sentence, or what?? :lovestruc

So, naturally, we had to grab the phone so he could call his cousin and officially invite her to our house for a pary! party:

I was so happy to hear him speaking appropriately on the phone to his cousin... conversations are difficult enough for him, but even more so on the phone. After he hung up, he took my hand and led me to our calendar so we could circle the date for our "99 Days to Disney Party"... July 22. He actually has school that day (a field trip to a state park) and I'm working a half-day. But, it is the actual day of our coundown, so we'll just plan an afternoon get together.
Kathy

YAAY!! Oh, that is so awesome! :lovestruc
That made me tear up :blush:
I just love that Disney magic! Lightening McQueen really brought my son (3, and I believe on the spectrum) out.
I wish I had a Disney Store near me! I used to live near one, and being so close to WDW, I never even really thought about it! Now I am farther from the mouse (though still in FL), AND there's no Disney Store, so I am really jonesing!!!
Good for you on the healthy eating!! (me, it was my son's birthday this week, soooo... not so much. I don't want to weigh myself, because it would be too embarrassing to move my ticker BACK!!! :rotfl2:)

[mousescrapper]

Great Shopping Loot! I saw the stuff Carissa bought too...very fun, love all of it! Can't wait to hear all about the 99 day party how fun :cool1:

Michael really loves stuffed animals too...and I guess I am a sucker for buying him more too....;) at the Harry Potter thing, he was content w/ a bag of Bertie Bott's jelly beans, but then we saw the plush and well we came home w/ Fawkes too :laughing:


hearing all the :headache: about planning and such, makes me glad our next trip will be at the end of the month. I know you'll let us know if Mike stears your right on this trip, I used him for the 08 trip and then just the UG charts for the March trip...both seemed OK, a few bad apples on each trip...but I may do TGM for next yr w/ more time to plan it out and consult the UG charts but don't want to be overally :confused3 either...


and speaking of trips.....


There is a slight chance we'll do WDW at Tgiving but that is a big maybe.

I like this slight chance! :goodvibes

[KathyRN137]

Your pics make me want to go to the Disney store. I love the plates and all the Up Stuff to! Your party will be super fun!

Tricia and I went to Party City today and picked up some more things: napkins and cups to match the colors in the plates and goody bag stuff!! :woohoo:


Oh my goodness! I am going to have to hit the Disney Store today and see if they have those same dishes! Love them!!! :yay:

I hope you have success! They are great for a party, but also for summertime BBQ on the deck!! :sunny:


Kathy, I just adore the new Disney summer plates, and what a great sale price on all of them! :thumbsup2


Thanks!! :goodvibes I like that they each have different characters on them... the colors are a bit different, but they all go together so nicely!



I wish I had a Disney Store near me! I used to live near one, and being so close to WDW, I never even really thought about it! Now I am farther from the mouse (though still in FL), AND there's no Disney Store, so I am really jonesing!!!

My condolences! We used to have a Disney Store at the local mall, but then it closed. :sad1: But the next nearest location is only about a 20 minute ride, so I'm lucky.


Great Shopping Loot! I saw the stuff Carissa bought too...very fun, love all of it! Can't wait to hear all about the 99 day party how fun :cool1:


Oooh, I'll have to check out her thread! I suppose they're starting to clear out the summer stuff to make room for Halloween merchandise! That makes me happy!! Means my trip is getting closer!!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Love that Billy called Catie to invite her to the party! How sweet of him!

He loves his cousin! :love:


YAAY!! Oh, that is so awesome! :lovestruc
That made me tear up :blush:
I just love that Disney magic! Lightening McQueen really brought my son (3, and I believe on the spectrum) out.

Disney Magic has always brought out an amazing amount of language from Billy... it really lights a spark in him... He makes such progress during and after our trips, verbally and socially!! pixiedust: I think if you can find something that touches a chord in your child you should jump on it and squeeze every drop of magic out of it!!! :laughing:

Kathy

[joy13]

Great update! I love that Billy got so excited about the party and called his cousin - just awesome!

We used to have a Disney store about 30 min away, but it closed :(

[eandesmom]

Great update! I love the plates and Tricia's shirts! And the plushies :) You can never have too many plushies :)

I hear you on the 90 day park hour/ADR. Sadly even though I didn't make my ADR's until 41 days out, park hours STILL changed between when I made our ADR's and when we went. And while the crowd calendars were helpful...when your entire week is in the 8's...well....not much helps lol! Except EMH.

[KathyRN137]

Great update! I love that Billy got so excited about the party and called his cousin - just awesome!

We used to have a Disney store about 30 min away, but it closed :(


Awww! That's too bad... :sad2: The stores always have lots more than what you can get online...plus, it's always nice to actually see and feel what you're buying!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Great update! I love the plates and Tricia's shirts! And the plushies :) You can never have too many plushies :)

I hear you on the 90 day park hour/ADR. Sadly even though I didn't make my ADR's until 41 days out, park hours STILL changed between when I made our ADR's and when we went. And while the crowd calendars were helpful...when your entire week is in the 8's...well....not much helps lol! Except EMH.

The ever-changing hours drive me nuts! :crazy: "Jersey Week" can get a little crowded, too, so I feel like I'm losing whatever advantage I had by being "in the know!" about factors that affect the crowd levels...

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Prepping Billy for the New Version of HOP


Well, if you've read about our past WDW adventures you know that Billy loves Magic Kingdom attractions that feature audio-animatronics. Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise and Enchanted Tiki Room usually come to mind. But Billy (being Billy) has a peculiar fascination with the Hall of Presidents! A classic "Walt" attraction, for sure, but how many times has someone in your family begged you to see it multiple times?! :lmao:

Perhaps its seeing all those "robots" up on the stage...perhaps its the wide screen film...perhaps its the musical score...perhaps I will never know! :confused3 Whatever the reasons, he loves to visit the HOP.

Thankfully the recent closure of the attraction for major renovations did not occur during one of our visits! :worship: He would have been inconsolable! (Funny... he knows Space Mountain will be "down" during our upcoming trip, and it doesn't seem to faze him.) He learned all about the new president in school, but I wasn't quite sure if this would translate into a realization that his beloved HOP would be changing to reflect that.

In addition, there have been lots of other changes to the attraction.... a new musical score, new speaking parts for Presidents Washington and Lincoln, and really an entire new theme that will pemeate the presentation. Hmmm. How will he react??? Autistic spectrum kids can be quite rigid and usually do not accept change well.

(Amy and Scrappie have just thought, "That's really the understatement of the year, Kath!") :rotfl:

The best thing for me to do is to prepare him ahead of time. How lucky I felt when I discovered some YouTube clips that discussed the process. We watched them together a few times, so hopefully he will not be taken aback when he sees the "new" show.

I've included links in case you might be interested! Enjoy! (You know you love it!!)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdpAbHwoFq0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZ5hl4ktn-o

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3rPpDTGNuk


Kathy

[All7OfUs]

Wow! I didn't know they were going to change more than just adding Obama. New score? new parts for Lincon and Washington? are they trying to be more PC or what was the motivation?? Hmmm....

Glad you could Prep Billy ahead of time, that will add some level of comfort and predictability for him.

[moparop]

Love those Disney store finds!! Doug would go crazy for the Dug and Alpha. He randomly yells out "Squirrel!" and laughs hysterically at himself. :lmao:

[KathyRN137]

Wow! I didn't know they were going to change more than just adding Obama. New score? new parts for Lincon and Washington? are they trying to be more PC or what was the motivation?? Hmmm....

Glad you could Prep Billy ahead of time, that will add some level of comfort and predictability for him.

I suppose that Disney figured it was a good time to update the attraction with new digital sound and video... they had to close it anyway to add President Obama.

Here is some more info on the update from Marc Goldhaber and Jeff Kober....


Barack Obama joins Hall of Presidents

Following a week of sneak previews and Passholder previews, the Hall of Presidents opened on Friday for special viewings by the new citizens from the morning's naturalization ceremony, and to the general public in the afternoon. It officially opened on Saturday, July 4.

The new show carries the subtitle "A Celebration of Liberty's Leaders" and for the first time features speaking roles for three presidents. Abraham Lincoln was the only speaking President from the show's opening in 1971 until the addition of Bill Clinton in 1993. From that time on, the sitting President also spoke in the attraction. This year, George Washington also is given a voice.


The recordings are a mixture of old and new. Abraham Lincoln is again voiced by Royal Dano, with the recitation of the complete Gettysburg Address from recordings made for the Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln attraction at the New York World's Fair. Barack Obama, of course, provides his own voice for his doppelganger. George Washington is voiced by David Morse, who appeared as Washington in HBO's award-winning miniseries "John Adams."

Of Dano's recordings, Jeff Kober wrote in his blog last Friday:

In an interview during the Hall of Presidents press event, Kathy Rogers, senior show producer for Walt Disney Imagineering, discussed the possibility of using Royal Dano's voice again in the revised Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln show coming to Disneyland.

What his narrative might be remains to be seen. In this show, Abraham Lincoln offers the Gettysburg Address, believed to be picked up off of original recordings made for the LP Record originally done for Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.

While you anticipate this return, definitely come back to The Hall of Presidents. The changes are worth visiting when you're at the Magic Kingdom


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Love those Disney store finds!! Doug would go crazy for the Dug and Alpha. He randomly yells out "Squirrel!" and laughs hysterically at himself. :lmao:

:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:


Kathy

[mrsksomeday]

Great idea to prep him Kathy. I will be waiting to see how he adjusts, but you do so well in making sure there aren't surprises, I think he will be fine. He has a fantastic Mommy :hug:.

[KathyRN137]

Great idea to prep him Kathy. I will be waiting to see how he adjusts, but you do so well in making sure there aren't surprises, I think he will be fine. He has a fantastic Mommy :hug:.



Aww, thanks Tracy! You're sweet!

Did you get the tee shirts from the Disney Store??

Kathy

[mrsksomeday]

Aww, thanks Tracy! You're sweet!

Did you get the tee shirts from the Disney Store??

Kathy

I got 2 shirts for Christian. Hannah already has some Disney stuff and I wanted to make sure Christian doesn't feel like everything is for her.

[Charleston Princess]

I will have to watch those youtube clips -- I am curious to see the changes -- all of the reviews I have read have been very postive so far.

[eandesmom]

Prepping Billy for the New Version of HOP
Well, if you've read about our past WDW adventures you know that Billy loves Magic Kingdom attractions that feature audio-animatronics. Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise and Enchanted Tiki Room usually come to mind. But Billy (being Billy) has a peculiar fascination with the Hall of Presidents! A classic "Walt" attraction, for sure, but how many times has someone in your family begged you to see it multiple times?! :lmao:

Kathy

DS8 was inconsolable that it was closed and he couldn't go see it, it was on his list of "must sees". But then very excited about the reason, Obama. Go figure!

Very very smart to be prepping him and how great that you found those links!

[DearDaisyinDurham]

We have not visited HOP since the 90's as DH lumps it in w/ COP (not to be visited unless under duress) but I really want to see the updates....we're thinking of planning our next trip to be in March again as spring was so nice at WDW

[Tnkrbelle565]

Confession time...I have NEVER done the HOP. Unless I did when I was little but I definitely don't remember it!

Other things that I've never done at Disney as an adult

Country Bears
Main St Vehicles
Tiki Room
Tom Sawyer Island
Astro Orbiter
Race Cars
American Adventure
Ellen's Energy Adventure
Movies in China, France, Canada
Circle of Life
Lights Motors Action
Journey in Narnia
Sounds Dangerous.

Also never been to the waterparks or the mini golf courses!

This year I finally- made it to the Boardwalk, rode the Riverboat, rode Living with the Land, and rode CoP so there is always room for improvement on every trip!

[DisMomAmy]

In addition, there have been lots of other changes to the attraction.... a new musical score, new speaking parts for Presidents Washington and Lincoln, and really an entire new theme that will pemeate the presentation. Hmmm. How will he react??? Autistic spectrum kids can be quite rigid and usually do not accept change well.

(Amy and Scrappie have just thought, "That's really the understatement of the year, Kath!") :rotfl:


Kathy
[SIZE="3"]
Yes - I would agree that that is an understatement!! :rotfl:

Thank goodness we live in a day when we can pull up any video on the internet!! We watched a lot of videos before our trip in 2007. The only problem with that is if something is different from the video! :rolleyes1

Thanks for those links!! I can't wait to take Alex there! :thumbsup2 Am I the only one who thinks Barack looks a little funny?? :confused3 Not that I could do any better. :laughing:

[mousescrapper]

[SIZE="4"][I]Autistic spectrum kids can be quite rigid and usually do not accept change well.

(Amy and Scrappie have just thought, "That's really the understatement of the year, Kath!") :rotfl:



;) yes I can attest to that.....Michael can't wait to see HOP next fall and is very excited about more presidents speaking! that was his one complaint after seeing it in 08.... though it would have made his day if Teddy said something!

I hope Billy will be chanting more HOP in a happy face! :goodvibes

thanks for the links! :thumbsup2

[irish dancer]

Thanks for the YouTube links. Very interesting. Of course it was still closed last month when we were there. Will have to check it out next time. I hope Billy likes the changes or at least tolerates them.


Went to the Disney store today and picked up some of those plates. They were out of the Nemo ones so I'll have to check the other store Thursday when I take the girls to gymnastics as it is close to the other mall. I guess I should be lucky from the looks of it most have had their stores closed but I have two to choose from in local malls.

I always look forward to the double digit day as for some reason it seems like the trip comes faster then. Hope you have a great Disney Party.

[KathyRN137]

I will have to watch those youtube clips -- I am curious to see the changes -- all of the reviews I have read have been very postive so far.

The only problem with showing Billy the YouTube clips is that he has now figured out that he can search for videos of the different WDW attractions! After HOP we watched MuppetVision 3D, Mickey's PhilharMagic, and Toy Story Midway Mania clips!! :rotfl:


DS8 was inconsolable that it was closed and he couldn't go see it, it was on his list of "must sees". But then very excited about the reason, Obama. Go figure!

Very very smart to be prepping him and how great that you found those links!

Oh, I have learned from experience that it pays to be prepared!! :rolleyes: I still have to work on his social stories for the trip...


We have not visited HOP since the 90's as DH lumps it in w/ COP (not to be visited unless under duress) but I really want to see the updates....we're thinking of planning our next trip to be in March again as spring was so nice at WDW

That's okay, not everyone enjoys the history-related attractions. We all have our preferences. I have to say that my "once-in-a-lifetime-is-enough" attraction has got to be the Country Bears!! :ssst:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Confession time...I have NEVER done the HOP. Unless I did when I was little but I definitely don't remember it!

Other things that I've never done at Disney as an adult

Country Bears
Main St Vehicles
Tiki Room
Tom Sawyer Island
Astro Orbiter
Race Cars
American Adventure
Ellen's Energy Adventure
Movies in China, France, Canada
Circle of Life
Lights Motors Action
Journey in Narnia
Sounds Dangerous.

Also never been to the waterparks or the mini golf courses!




I've been five times and I, too, have yet to do the attractions highlighted in red! There's never enough time to see and do it all!!

Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Yes - I would agree that that is an understatement!! :rotfl:
Thanks for those links!! I can't wait to take Alex there! :thumbsup2


;) yes I can attest to that.....Michael can't wait to see HOP next fall and is very excited about more presidents speaking! that was his one complaint after seeing it in 08.... though it would have made his day if Teddy said something!



:laughing: I just knew you guys would understand 'zactly what I was talkin' about!! :laughing:


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

Went to the Disney store today and picked up some of those plates.

I always look forward to the double digit day as for some reason it seems like the trip comes faster then. Hope you have a great Disney Party.


:scratchin The Disney Store should give me a commission or something, ya think? :laughing:

Kathy

[cjackearl]

And Youtube saves the day!:thumbsup2 I wish the HOP would have been open when we were there but no such luck. I hope Billy enjoys the new version.

What are social stories, if you don't mind me asking?

[brookelizabeth]

The new Disney plates are really cute-perfect for the party, and SUCH a good deal! :thumbsup2

VERY exciting about Billy mentioning the party and then inviting Catie!!! And he looks adorable with his new plushies!

I've read really good things so far about the HoP changes. I am resisting clicking on the YouTube videos because I want to be surprised! :goodvibes I hope they do help with Billy and the changes made to the attraction-hopefully he will still enjoy it just as much!

[KathyRN137]

And Youtube saves the day!:thumbsup2 I wish the HOP would have been open when we were there but no such luck. I hope Billy enjoys the new version.

What are social stories, if you don't mind me asking?



Christine, a social storiy is a tool we use to help Billy cope with difficult situations by turning them into a visual story and showing the appropriate responses that are expected.

For example, currently Billy is working on not getting upset and angry (crying, stomping feet, kicking) when he is told he cannot go to the movies. He is very rigid and wants to see movies he is interested in seeing on the actual opening day... which he remembers from commercials and advertisements!! Sometimes we can't see the movie on that day or sometimes we don't want him to see the particular movie at all.


Because he associates treats like movies and dvds with rewards for good behavior, he also gets upset when he doesn't get them because he thinks it's because he hasn't been "a good boy!" :rolleyes:

We use a social story to reinforce the correct response we expect from him when he is told he cannot get what he wants...



http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/WDW%2008/AutismSpeaks.jpg
http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/WDW%2008/AutismSpeaks001.jpg


It's not enough, it seems, to sit down and talk with him... he needs to "see it" visually to understand.

Hope this helps!


Kathy

[KathyRN137]

I've read really good things so far about the HoP changes. I am resisting clicking on the YouTube videos because I want to be surprised! :goodvibes I hope they do help with Billy and the changes made to the attraction-hopefully he will still enjoy it just as much!


Hey there, Brook! Don't be afraid to check out these clips... they are about "the making of" and only show little pieces of the attraction... not the whole show! :goodvibes


Kathy

[mom2mek]

All caught up! Great finds at the Disney store! Oh, how I want that chip and dip!!! Love those UP characters - that movie was so sweet and so funny!

I have never seen the HoP - I'm ashamed to say. Whenever we go by, we have just missed a showing and never feel like waiting around for the next one. :confused3 Apparently, the President hasn't either - "Are these wax" he said in the first clip! LOL! "Oh, robots!" :laughing: I just found that kinda funny!

Yay for the party date!!! :yay::yay:

Sara

[Dreamer & Wisher]

I've read really good things so far about the HoP changes. I am resisting clicking on the YouTube videos because I want to be surprised! :goodvibes I hope they do help with Billy and the changes made to the attraction-hopefully he will still enjoy it just as much!
:thumbsup2I want to be surprised too.
Christine, a social storiy is a tool we use to help Billy cope with difficult situations by turning them into a visual story and showing the appropriate responses that are expected.

For example, currently Billy is working on not getting upset and angry (crying, stomping feet, kicking) when he is told he cannot go to the movies. He is very rigid and wants to see movies he is interested in seeing on the actual opening day... which he remembers from commercials and advertisements!! Sometimes we can't see the movie on that day or sometimes we don't want him to see the particular movie at all.


Because he associates treats like movies and dvds with rewards for good behavior, he also gets upset when he doesn't get them because he thinks it's because he hasn't been "a good boy!" :rolleyes:

We use a social story to reinforce the correct response we expect from him when he is told he cannot get what he wants...



http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/WDW%2008/AutismSpeaks.jpg
http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w284/KathyRN137/WDW%2008/AutismSpeaks001.jpg


It's not enough, it seems, to sit down and talk with him... he needs to "see it" visually to understand.

Hope this helps!


Kathy

Those are really creative. I think they would be helpful to a lot of kids. Did you make them in Microsoft Word? Do you make plans for your trip into Social Stories?

[KathyRN137]

Those are really creative. I think they would be helpful to a lot of kids. Did you make them in Microsoft Word? Do you make plans for your trip into Social Stories?


Honestly, I just talk to Billy's teacher about whatever the "current" issue is and she makes them up for use at home and at school. I sent her an e-mail asking her what she uses to make them so I can answer your question properly! :goodvibes

I have used social stories in the past for our Disney trips, mostly regarding flexibility issues when we cannot do exactly what he wants to do... like watch Mickey's Philharmagic three times in a row!! :laughing: Unfortunately, they have gone the way of my trip notes and I can't find them right now, so I'll probably have to make up some new ones...

Thanks for reading!

Kathy

[Hedy]

:thumbsup2I want to be surprised too.


Those are really creative. I think they would be helpful to a lot of kids. Did you make them in Microsoft Word? Do you make plans for your trip into Social Stories?

I hope Kathy doesn't mind me popping in, but when I worked in special ed, we used boardmaker (http://www.mayer-johnson.com/).
Amy also used social stories, if you click on the PTR, you can see some cards she made. (Frankly, I think a lot of people at WDW could use them: Just because I cannot walk up to Le Cellier, does not mean my trip is ruined. I can calm down by grabbing a beer at the UK) :rotfl::rotfl:

[KathyRN137]

Disney Dining Rambling, er, Discussion:


Well, I've got less than a month to go before I make our ADRs. :banana:

I'm a bit apprehensive about using the online system... however, maybe it will help expedite the entire process. I'll try it and if I don't like it, I can always call Disney Dining and do it the "old-fashioned way." None of my desired ADRs are all that crucial, so I'm not stressing.

Too much.

My only concern is that Disney is now offering free dining Sept-Dec with pin codes... if they open it up to the general public, then there will be a lot more urgency when it comes to locking in those ADRs as soon as possible. I like to try for early meal times to avoid crowds and waiting. :thumbsup2

We seem to have a mix of old favorites and new experiences so far... of course, we'll have a chance to finalize the wish list at our Countdown to Disney party with DSis and DNiece. (DBIL owns a bike store and this is his busy season, so he will most likely not be coming.)

Everyone seems to have at least one dining choice that they really want:

Billy: Play and Dine at Hollywood and Vine (lunch)
Tricia: 50's Prime Time Cafe (lunch or dinner
Caitie: Biergarten (I think)(lunch or dinner) (New to us)
Ed: Brown Derby (lunch or dinner)(New to us)
Me: Torn between pre-park opening breakfast at Crystal Palace or Tusker House (New to us)...AND...possible dinner at 'Ohana with mrsksomeday and yodaK. :goodvibes


Of course, the crucial planning element here is deciding where we will be on each day of the week...and hopefully co-ordinating schedules with mrsksomeday. For that I need park hours and EMH schedules, which will not be available until August 1st, the same day I can make ADRs. I probably will not be waking up early and calling/logging in first thing in the morning...but August 1st falls on a Saturday, so at least I don't have to worry about being at work. :thumbsup2


The F&WF will be wrapping up in Epcot but we will actually be doing our best to avoid it. I know...I know. But WS just gets so jam-packed in the evenings because of the festival! Its probably better for the kids if we tour WS earlier in the day so we can really enjoy the live entertainment and Kim Possible Missions.


We're definitely not doing the DDP because we will not be able to use all the credits. Most breakfasts will be at the villa to save time, so even if we get the Quick Service and pay OOP for our TS meals, I can't see us being able to use the CS and two snacks per day!


Well, that's my rambling on Dining... I'd better stop because I'm starting to get hungry!!


Kathy

[mousescrapper]

Hi Kathy....

first I like your social stories you shared, the little pictures are great!

the ones I have used for Michael have basically been text, so I appreciate the other version too :thumbsup2

to the dining....

isn't it crazy how we ponder and plan where and how we will eat on days over 3 months away....but then how exhilarating it is at the same time! ;)

I think your pick's are nice...except one possible flaw...3 of your 5 are all at DHS and are either lunch or dinner...are you thinking of possibly going to DHS 3 different times?

are you on a park hopper to do that too? JAT

I'm still game on you trying Tusker at AK for your pre-park breakfast, for selfish reasons that I want to know what you think :laughing: but thinking at AKV how close you are to that vs treking up to MK at 8 am...I know you have a love affair w/ Pooh...but this is a wild adventure!

Lastly I just wanted to throw my 2 cents back out there on the DDP...OK yes my trip is over 16 months away but yes I have already priced out the variables of no DDP and OOP TS meals, QSDDP and OOP TS meals and then the reg DDP. :rolleyes1

and to my utter amazement :teacher:

when we travel next yr according to Disney we'll be paying 4 adult fares, plus 2 child fares and because we'll be there during Thanksgiving I'm figuring in some extra $$ on 2 TS meals (I know this doesn't exactly fit you, but go w/ me here....)

I priced out in 09 pricing (and 08 to get a feel for inflation), what each plan would cost us and then what the cost OOP our must 3 TS meals would cost (you don't want to know :eek: I'll save it for my PTR) and it was actually more than the differnece for us if we took the QSDDP vs the reg DDP

It seems like alot of food...but it actually would cost less....:confused:

I'm sure as smart as you are you probably already have figured out how much your TS meals will cost OOP vs DDP...but just wanted to put that out there, my Disney fuzzy math surprise!

don't mean to confuse you any further :confused:

looking forward to what you all decide and how the online ressie goes and what you get!

Scrappie

[Hedy]

I'd say Tusker House depends on your food interest. There are a lot of exotic-ish dishes, but also eggs, bagels, donuts, biscuits, and bacon (I'm sure Tricia will be happy). However, if you think your crew will only eat the normal breakfast stuff, you might want to go someplace else (but Tusker House has yummy passion fruit juice).
The DIS has October hours http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/oct09.cfm?requesttimeout=1000

[mrsksomeday]

Me: Torn between pre-park opening breakfast at Crystal Palace or Tusker House (New to us)...AND...possible dinner at 'Ohana with mrsksomeday and yodaK. :goodvibes


Of course, the crucial planning element here is deciding where we will be on each day of the week...and hopefully co-ordinating schedules with mrsksomeday.

Bill loves, loves, loves 'Ohana :thumbsup2. He says as long as no one minds that I cut up his food etc, he says it would be great to have dinner with your family!

As for co-ordinating the schedules, We arrive on Nov. 4th and are doing Planet Hollywood that night, other than that, you tell me what day you want 'Ohana and we follow you there :goodvibes.

** Confession time, yes I am an OTP (obsessive trip planner) but I normally don't even look at the crowd calendars :eek:. Bill and I usually do Epcot the first full day because we sleep in a bit the first morning to get his body back to normal after the travel day. We base our park days on Spectromagic and now since it isn't every night Fantasmic.

We are flexible, whenever you want to meet, we will be there :hug:.

[Dreamer & Wisher]

I hope Kathy doesn't mind me popping in, but when I worked in special ed, we used boardmaker (http://www.mayer-johnson.com/).
Amy also used social stories, if you click on the PTR, you can see some cards she made. (Frankly, I think a lot of people at WDW could use them: Just because I cannot walk up to Le Cellier, does not mean my trip is ruined. I can calm down by grabbing a beer at the UK) :rotfl::rotfl:

Thank you!!

[SIZE="3"]


Everyone seems to have at least one dining choice that they really want:

Billy: Play and Dine at Hollywood and Vine (lunch)
Tricia: 50's Prime Time Cafe (lunch or dinner
Caitie: Biergarten (I think)(lunch or dinner) (New to us)
Ed: Brown Derby (lunch or dinner)(New to us)
Me: Torn between pre-park opening breakfast at Crystal Palace or Tusker House (New to us)...AND...possible dinner at 'Ohana with mrsksomeday and yodaK. :goodvibes


Kathy

We have had Biergarten, Ohana, and Tusker House breakfast. We loved them all and are planning to go back to Ohana on this trip. We haven't been there since they changed the potato side dish to the noodles. It is great place to watch Wishes, you can hear the music in the restaurant.

Tusker House Breakfast has a really wide variety of offerings. Very good food for adventurous eaters as well as your typical Mickey waffles, eggs and bacon.

Biergarten has a wonderful atmosphere, I enjoy the food a lot. Spaetzle are so yummy! The music and dancing is a lot of fun. They do the Chicken Dance.

We want to try Hollywood Brown Derby too. I want to use the Fantasmic dinner package.