I think I can, I think I can, I think I can get my DH to let me go back to Disney!

[DisneyTiger]

Hello everyone! The first thing I need to say here is that I CANNOT believe that I am writing another PTR because that means that I'm already going back to Disney!!! We just got back from our trip of a lifetime in October and never did I ever imagine I'd be going back in May - but alas, I am:banana: So here's my story...

My name is Talissa and I am a 32 year old domestic engineer. I am married to my wonderful partner in crime, Jason. He is 32 as well and works as a physical therapist. He works his little butt off so that I am able to stay at home with my two wonderful kids. Aubrey is 3.5 and Brendan will be 2 in a few weeks!

Our Disney history...
I had been to Disney a few times in high school with my youth group and Jason went once with his family when he was about 8. I had a friend that was getting married around the same time as we were and they were planning on going to Disney for their honeymoon. I can vividly remember thinking how strange it was that they were going to Disney of all places. I mean, your honeymoon was supposed to be a romantic place, not somewhere filled to the brim with screaming kids, right! Our plan was to go to the Poconos for our honeymoon. Home of the champagne glass hot tub. This is what a honeymoon was supposed to be....

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/hottub.jpg

Please note that this is NOT a picture of me and my husband. But we did have one of these puppies in our room!:scared1: Well, hindsight is 20/20 as they say. Looking back on this er, vacation, I realized that it was not the place for us. Fast forward a year or so to our first year of marriage. We needed a trip to redeem our honeymoon so we decided to give Disney a try. That was November of 2003 and since then we've been back 8 times. We were officially hooked the first time we walked in the gates together. On our second to last trip, we finally decided to take the plunge and join DVC. We had looked into it before but when we found out that AKL was going to be our home resort, we were sold! This is by far, our favorite place of all.

After we joined DVC, we began planning our first family vacation. You see, we had gone to Disney twice since our kids were born and hadn't taken them! It was time. Aubrey's 3rd birthday was coming up in September of 08 and we felt it would be a perfect way to celebrate. We booked our dream vacation and stayed in a 1BR Villa at the BC. It was amazing (see trip report below).

Ok, I am having my first PTR interruption. I should warn all of you about this ahead of time. I have two small kids that often cause me to have to cut my posts short. Like now, my DD is pullling on my leg and DS is ready for a nap. I must go tend to them for now but will be back for the rest of our introductions and explanaion of this unexpected trip. I hope you stick around to read more:thumbsup2

[DisneyTiger]

I'm back. I was not able to get my DS down for a nap so we'll see how long I am able to stay on this time!

Here we are, on our last trip in Sept/Oct...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/image64.jpg
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/image67.jpg

And my favorite photopass pic of the trip. We had the bright idea to get both of the kids an icecream cone. The photopass photographer actually left his post at the Eiffle Tower in France to come over and take pics of us. It was quite a sight!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/disneyday3-2038-1.jpg

What are ya gonna do??

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/image25-1.jpg

And here is one more pic. I had this moment plan for months - the first time DD saw Cinderella Castle. I strategically planned for my husband to walk in a bit ahead of us with the camera so that he could catch her reaction as we turned the corner onto Main Street. She was holding onto me so tightly, about to burst with excitement. This moment is absolutely priceless to me and I am lucky enough to have a picture of it. I have it framed on my bedisde table...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/DisneyDay2014.jpg

Ok, I lied. I have to share another pic. This was another very memorable moment for DD. This was the first time she saw Illuminations. Her reaction was hysterical. I know she looks terrified in this pic but trust me, she was laughing and screaming with excitement. It was great!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/disneyday3-2133-1.jpg

Ok, enough pictures for now. Let me tell you about our upcoming trip since this is in fact a PRE-TRIP REPORT:rotfl:

So, on the last night of our trip, DH and I were talking about when we would be back. We both decided that we would wait at least until DS's 3rd birthday (he was 18 months at the time). I got online and banked out DVC points which means that we wouldn't be able to use them until June 2009. Surely we wouldn't be going back before then:rolleyes1

Alright, fast forward a few months to when the "stay 4 get 3 free" promo was released. Now, I should note here that in my spare time, I am a travel agent and I specialize in, what else, Disney vacations! I have a sister that has been wanting to take her kids and I knew this would be a great opportunity for them to go. I managed to convince not only her, but another one of my sisters (I have 4, and 2 brothers - yes, we're Catholic:lmao: ) to book their trips! Now, my sister has never been to Disney and was asking me all kinds fo questions. She was very overwhelmed and nervous about taking the trip by herself and jokingly said "Why don't y'all come with us??" Ok, at first I just laughed it off but the seed was planted. I started playing with the dates and decided to approach my DH a little bit a time saying things like, "Wouldn't Aubrey have a blast with her cousins in Disney?" or "Tonya (my sis) sure is overwhelmed and I would love to be able to help her." Once I start talking like this, DH knows it's all over. He finally cracked and told me to just book it already! The only difference this time is that it's just going to be me and DD!!!:love: Yes, we are officially planning a Mother/Daughter trip:yay: I called DVC and realized that I would now have to borrow points since I banked the ones from 2008. It really wasn't that big of a deal and before I knew it, we had a studio booked at AKL!!! Woo hoo!

We will be going 5/27 - 5/31 and I can hardly wait. This is officially the best Mother's Day present ever. That's what we're calling it. I can rationalize anything can I tell you!

So that's the background. I'll be back with all of the details. Thanks for reading:wizard:

[coteau_chick]

Woo Hoo I am first!

[my2disneyboys]

No fair.... I tried to be the first one and I was blocked. LOVE LOVE LOVE your Trip Reports!!

[DisneyTiger]

Woo Hoo I am first!


Yay!!!!!

[DisneyTiger]

No fair.... I tried to be the first one and I was blocked. LOVE LOVE LOVE your Trip Reports!!


Don't know what that is about. Maybe you and Couteau_Chick were trying to post at the same time???

Anyway, still so glad you popped over. Glad you like the reports. I am havinga blast writing them. Cant' wait to get started!!!:lovestruc

[vamassey1]

Okay I'm in! Let the party begin!:cool1:

[Where'sPiglet?]

Yay!!!

Of COURSE I'll come over here!

[WannabeAriel]

Whoo Hooo! I'm in! I loved your last trip report and even though I didn't post much... I read faithfully!!!

I'm also a little jealous of your camera!!!

AND I also want to sign up for DVC but I'm so far too scared to take the plunge!!!

I'm also from Louisiana and can SO relate to your Disney obsession! We went 5 times last year!!! DH and I are obsessed and we don't even have kids!!! :laughing: Over Mardi Gras break we went skiing and DH said... "I feel like we're cheating on Mickey!" :love: :laughing: :love:

It will be a while before we get back to WDW though because we are heading to CA to Disneyland this summer! Maybe Thanksgiving at WDW again??? :rolleyes1

[DisneyTiger]

Okay I'm in! Let the party begin!:cool1:

You know it's always a party when DisneyTiger is around:rotfl:

Yay!!!

Of COURSE I'll come over here!

Thank you faithful Piglet:)

Whoo Hooo! I'm in! I loved your last trip report and even though I didn't post much... I read faithfully!!!

I'm also a little jealous of your camera!!!

AND I also want to sign up for DVC but I'm so far too scared to take the plunge!!!

I'm also from Louisiana and can SO relate to your Disney obsession! We went 5 times last year!!! DH and I are obsessed and we don't even have kids!!! :laughing: Over Mardi Gras break we went skiing and DH said... "I feel like we're cheating on Mickey!" :love: :laughing: :love:

It will be a while before we get back to WDW though because we are heading to CA to Disneyland this summer! Maybe Thanksgiving at WDW again??? :rolleyes1

Hi! So glad you followed me over here! I do have to say that my camera was an impulse purchase and I contemplated returning it and not even bringing it on my trip:scared1: Man, am I glad I didn't. I really do love it. It's worth the investment. You can spend a lot more money on the fancier Nikons, but mine does just what I need it to. My sister recently got the one above mine and it's got so many knobs and buttons on it! Way too confusing. I :love: mine!

As for DVC, yes, I was totally scared to sign those papers. We had actually joined once before when they were selling SSR and we backed out at the last minute. It just didn't feel right. It is just so comforting to know that as soon as we get it paid off, our accomodations will be covered until we're 80! I did notice that the price has gone up quite a bit since we joined. I would do it sooner than later if you're really considering it.

And, ok, 5 times in one year??? You are officially worse than me:rotfl2: And I love the comment about cheating on Mickey. That's the truth! I bet he's been looking for you! We may be going back for Thanksgiving too. And I hope to make it to CA one day. You should do a PTR and TR on that trip. I would love to read about it!

Thanks again for reading along:love:

[mousetravel]

I can't wait to hear more about your upcoming mom/daughter trip.
That will be sweet for you & your DD to have a one on one trip.
That's what me & my DD do, take trips together. We are actually leaving Monday night!

[arizonacolbys]

Yay! A mother/daughter trip sounds like so much fun! :thumbsup2 Can't wait to hear all about your trip & the plans leading up to it. Loved the last report! :goodvibes

I'm going into withdrawals with no trip planned until December & our last trip was Aug 2007! :sad2: This is the longest hubby & I have gone without a WDW since we were married in 2000! :scared1: Thankfully, we'll be getting AP's & plan to make up for it next year. ;)

[DisneyTiger]

I can't wait to hear more about your upcoming mom/daughter trip.
That will be sweet for you & your DD to have a one on one trip.
That's what me & my DD do, take trips together. We are actually leaving Monday night!

Wow!!! How exciting! How old is your DD? I would love to make that a tradition with my DD but I am already having some serious guilt about leaving DS behind:sad2: I will have to find something special to do with him too! He's only two now but I'm sure one day he'll ask why I took DD and not him:rolleyes1 Oh well, guess I'll cross that bridge when I come to it!

Yay! A mother/daughter trip sounds like so much fun! :thumbsup2 Can't wait to hear all about your trip & the plans leading up to it. Loved the last report! :goodvibes

I'm going into withdrawals with no trip planned until December & our last trip was Aug 2007! :sad2: This is the longest hubby & I have gone without a WDW since we were married in 2000! :scared1: Thankfully, we'll be getting AP's & plan to make up for it next year. ;)

Wow, that is a long time. I would be having withdrawals too! You know, our plan was not to go back until next March. We're talking a year from now:scared1: And now, I have a trip planned in May and possibly one in Nov:rolleyes1 It just gets in your blood. Guess there are worse things to be addicted to right??

I am excited to write about our trip. I really haven't done much planning which is very unlike me. Hopefully this PTR will give me a kick in the butt that I need to start obsessing:rotfl: Thanks for reading a long!

[DisneyTiger]

Hello everyone! I am at home today when I should be running errands. My kids are in a MDO program on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9-1 and I am usually running around town like a crazy person on these days. Unfortunately, today I am home with a sick DS:( He's been sick all week actually. It started with throwing up, the constipation, and now we're on to diarreah. Sorry, TMI. Fun fun. I am tearing myself away from playing nurse for a few minutes to do an update:thumbsup2

Alright, so here's the plan. My sisters are going to WDW from 5/25 - 6/1. I, however, will be joining them in the middle of the week: 5/27 - 5/31. We were going to fly out on Thurs 5/28 and go straight to the parks. Unfortunately, I could not find a flight time that would work for us. I didn't want to fly out at the crack of dawn but I also didn't want to get to Orlando too late and waste a half day. So the solution??? You guessed it, leave a day early:banana: I found a flight out of New Orleans at 6:15. We live in Baton Roouge which is about an hour away from the airport. This flight time would be perfect because DH could take us to the airport, we could eat dinner together, and he could see us off. On Thursay, I have another one of my sisters watching DS and DH is taking off Friday to be home with him. It all fell into place perfectly.

We will arrive at MCO around 8:30 or so and then ME will whisk us off to the hotel. I booked a room only at ASMu through AAA for $100! Thought that was well worth it. I am having one dilemma though. We will be sleeping at ASMu that first night but the rest of our trip will be at AKL. Unfortunately, there was nothing available at AKL that first night which is why I had to book ASMu. Anyway, in order to be able to use the dining plan on our first day, we are going to have to wake up at the crack of dawn, check out of ASMu, head over to AKL to check in and get our room keys. Otherwise, I will not have access to my dining plan:headache: It's going to be a pain but I have put myself on the wait list for AKL. Hopefully something will come through. It would only be 9 more vacation points so what the hay!

I would have originally booked the 4 nights at AKL but I was trying to save as many points as possible. We were planning on using DVC to go to the beach this summer and it was going to cost us a lot of points so I didn't have many to spare. Unfortunately, we were not able to get the dates we wanted at the beach so we had to book it on our own. Side note.... I am SOOOOO excited about our beach trip. You have to check out where we are staying...

http://www.baytownewharf.com/

There is a Disney story here. Jason and I were in Destin last summer and stumbled upon this place by accident. It is a cobblestone pedestrian village that has tons of shops, restaurants, and all kinds of activities. When we were walking around, he looked at me and we were thinking the same thing- it totally reminded us of Downtown Disney! We decided then that we wanted to stay there this summer. We then realized that we would be able to book a stay through Disney:banana: Unfortunately, it didn't work out for us using DVC but I am still thrilled to be going back. We rented a one bedroom condo that will be just perfect for us. Can't Wait!!!

Ok, back on track... So, after we get all checked into AKL, we will be heading over to Epcot to meet up with my sisters.

Itinerary coming up shortly, promise:)

[DisneyTiger]

Hello, sorry I haven't been around in a while. I have been busy planning our last minute trip to the beach! We leave tomorrow for a quick trip to Orange Beach, AL. It has been a stressful couple of weeks. DH has been working long hours and I haven't been able to exercise like I like to - that is my form of stress relief! Also, DD has had this test scheduled for kidney reflux (when she potties, urine can reflux back up into the kidneys and cause infection). She was tested for it at 18 months and only had a slight case. It's supposed to correct itself over time so you have to keep checking them to see if it's gone or not. Well, the test is horrible. She has to be catherderized, dye injecteinto her bladder, and they has to lay there under an exray to see if the dye goes back up into her kidneys:scared1: She had a horrible experience at 18 months. Because of where my DH worked at the time, we were forced to go to a hospital that did not do these tests on kids often. They tried to catherderize her with an adult catherder and they tried it for 30 minutes!!!! She was definitely scarred from that so needless to say, I was not looking forward to this follow up test. It was Monday and it was horrible, but she was a trooper. She still does have some reflux which means she will have to be tested again in a few years. Until then, we have to give her an antibiotic every day! When the test was over, I felt like a huge weight had been lifted off of my shoulders. We decided at the last minute that we needed a little family getaway so we're headed to the beach!


I was out picking up a new portable DVD player for the car ride at Sears today and I made an impulse purchase that I must share with you. Check this out...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/003.jpg

Isn't it pretty?? Sears has this whole sterling silver line of Disney jewelry. Who knew! And ontop of that, it was marked WAY down. It was regularly $99 and I got it for %75 off!:banana: I am not the kind of person who wears Mickey everything. I like having a few little things though. I can't wait to wear this on our trip:thumbsup2

[coteau_chick]

Hello, sorry I haven't been around in a while. I have been busy planning our last minute trip to the beach! We leave tomorrow for a quick trip to Orange Beach, AL. It has been a stressful couple of weeks. DH has been working long hours and I haven't been able to exercise like I like to - that is my form of stress relief! Also, DD has had this test scheduled for kidney reflux (when she potties, urine can reflux back up into the kidneys and cause infection). She was tested for it at 18 months and only had a slight case. It's supposed to correct itself over time so you have to keep checking them to see if it's gone or not. Well, the test is horrible. She has to be catherderized, dye injecteinto her bladder, and they has to lay there under an exray to see if the dye goes back up into her kidneys:scared1: She had a horrible experience at 18 months. Because of where my DH worked at the time, we were forced to go to a hospital that did not do these tests on kids often. They tried to catherderize her with an adult catherder and they tried it for 30 minutes!!!! She was definitely scarred from that so needless to say, I was not looking forward to this follow up test. It was Monday and it was horrible, but she was a trooper. She still does have some reflux which means she will have to be tested again in a few years. Until then, we have to give her an antibiotic every day! When the test was over, I felt like a huge weight had been lifted off of my shoulders. We decided at the last minute that we needed a little family getaway so we're headed to the beach!


I was out picking up a new portable DVD player for the car ride at Sears today and I made an impulse purchase that I must share with you. Check this out...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/003.jpg

Isn't it pretty?? Sears has this whole sterling silver line of Disney jewelry. Who knew! And ontop of that, it was marked WAY down. It was regularly $99 and I got it for %75 off!:banana: I am not the kind of person who wears Mickey everything. I like having a few little things though. I can't wait to wear this on our trip:thumbsup2

Courtney had to have that test when she was little they thought she had reflux but she didn't. I will never forget it. My daddy came with us and he was just as traumatized as Courtney. Poor Audrey. I am sorry you had to go through that.:hug: Have a good time at the beach.
I like your necklace it is so cute.

[HeatherBelle614]

Just found you and subbied!!

That champagne glass made me LOL!! :lmao:

What an adorable family; your children are so cute!!

And, I'm in love with your necklace. You said Sears, right? I wonder if DH will let me venture over there...

[Where'sPiglet?]

Thank you faithful Piglet:)


Anytime. :goodvibes


I hope everybody is feeling better! I looked at the website of that cute little beach village you're going to in the summer. It looks so nice!

And I like that necklace you got. They just re-opened a Sears up here so maybe I oughta check it out!

And have a great time at Orange Beach! I hope the weather is decent for you!

[my2disneyboys]

Hey I missed you!! A few of my friends that have girls all have had to have that test done and a couple have been put on antibiotics for a very long time. i am sorry your little girl has to go through all that!

I am off to watch my Thursday night shows:happytv: but wanted to say have a wonderful vacation. I am jealous- first Disney- now beach vacation - and then you will be back to Dinsey soon. You are a lucky girl!!!

[DisneyTiger]

Courtney had to have that test when she was little they thought she had reflux but she didn't. I will never forget it. My daddy came with us and he was just as traumatized as Courtney. Poor Audrey. I am sorry you had to go through that.:hug: Have a good time at the beach.
I like your necklace it is so cute.

Uhh, how old was Courtney? The only reason we had her tested was because she had a UTI at 18mo. I have a niece who has the reflux too and it's very heriditary. Brendan was tested at 4 mo and thankfully didn't have it!

Just found you and subbied!!

That champagne glass made me LOL!! :lmao:

What an adorable family; your children are so cute!!

And, I'm in love with your necklace. You said Sears, right? I wonder if DH will let me venture over there...

YAY!!!:banana: So glad you are reading along. Sorry it hasn't been too exciting thus far:rolleyes1

Yes, the champagne glass hot tub is something that still cracks me up. But you know, it was really nice. The think was 6ft in diameter with jets. Very relaxing. I could have lived in it. In fact, we practially did for our whole honeymoon!

Thanks for the compliment on my family. I have to say that I think they're pretty fabulous too:)

Yes, you should check out the necklace at Sears. The sale price was %50 but I had another coupon to use ontop of it. It was a no brainer. But even for $50 I still think it's a good deal. It really is very pretty. Understated Mickey:laughing: That's what I like.

Anytime. :goodvibes


I hope everybody is feeling better! I looked at the website of that cute little beach village you're going to in the summer. It looks so nice!

And I like that necklace you got. They just re-opened a Sears up here so maybe I oughta check it out!

And have a great time at Orange Beach! I hope the weather is decent for you!

I can't wait to go back to the Baytown Wharf in July! It really is an awesome place!

We are all feeling much better and so ready for our little weekend getaway. I will share pics when I get back!

[QUOTE=my2disneyboys;30782396]Hey I missed you!! A few of my friends that have girls all have had to have that test done and a couple have been put on antibiotics for a very long time. i am sorry your little girl has to go through all that!

I am off to watch my Thursday night shows:happytv: but wanted to say have a wonderful vacation. I am jealous- first Disney- now beach vacation - and then you will be back to Dinsey soon. You are a lucky girl!!![/QUOT

The test is a lot more common that I thought. I'm just glad it's over. Maybe the next time when she's a little older it will go a bit smoother. Maybe she'll understand a little more what's going on.

I know that I am a very lucky girl. DH and I believe that our family and vacations are really what life is all about. You never know how long we're going to be here so we try to live for today but still plan for tomorrow. It's a very hard balance! I will be back on Sunday and will have lots of fun beach stories to share. Enjoy the shows. I'm about to go watch too!

[DisneyTiger]

Here's the link to the Disney Sterling collection (http://www.sears.com/shc/s/s_10153_12605_Jewelry_Sterling+Silver_View+All?sLe vel=2#viewItems=21&pageNum=1&sortOption=ORIGINAL_SORT_ORDER&&filter=Brand|Disney+Sterling+Silver&lastFilter=Brand)at Sears. Everything is on sale too in case you can't find them in a store near you. I also loved the big Mickey pendant at the bottom. Maybe I'll drop a hint to DH to get that for Mother's Day:rolleyes1

[vamassey1]

I'm so sorry your little one had to go through such a horrible test. I hope they don't find anything the next time.

Thanks so much for sharing the web site for the jewelry. I thinking Mother's Day sound like a great excuse for this purchase. Since I live in Baton Rouge I think DH needs to make a trip to the mall.

[annabean]

new reader..

hehe... you are so funny! domestic engineer... love that!

We actually stayed in one of those rooms before (with the champagne glass)! We celebrated our 1 year dating anniversary way back in 2001. Oh gosh, the room was so overwhelming, there were mirrors everywhere! Mirrors on the wall, headboard... ceiling and twinkling lights... we called it "80s porn fabulous" hehe. The pic you posted actually seem more subdued. It was not for us, but we had fun anyways.


http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/hottub.jpg

[DisneyTiger]

I'm so sorry your little one had to go through such a horrible test. I hope they don't find anything the next time.

Thanks so much for sharing the web site for the jewelry. I thinking Mother's Day sound like a great excuse for this purchase. Since I live in Baton Rouge I think DH needs to make a trip to the mall.

Glad I could help with the gift idea! FYI, I got it at the Mall of La not Cortana. :thumbsup2

new reader..

hehe... you are so funny! domestic engineer... love that!

We actually stayed in one of those rooms before (with the champagne glass)! We celebrated our 1 year dating anniversary way back in 2001. Oh gosh, the room was so overwhelming, there were mirrors everywhere! Mirrors on the wall, headboard... ceiling and twinkling lights... we called it "80s porn fabulous" hehe. The pic you posted actually seem more subdued. It was not for us, but we had fun anyways.

Yay! So glad you're reading along! Somedays I feel like I should call myself a domestic miracle worker! I just wish I had a magic wand sometimes!

Yes, the Poconos room was, well, festive!:rotfl: We got such a kick out of that whole place. Everything was draped in red velvet and shouted debauchery! It wasn't for us at all either. We sooooo wished we would have done something else, preferrably Disney. But oh well, it makes for good stories. Oh, and the pic I posted is from a Google image search. I don't think I could have posted any from our actual trip:rolleyes1 Sorry everyone, TMI here!

[Where'sPiglet?]

Oooh...another New Yorker on the thread! Hi! :wave2:

So I've lived in NYC almost 4 years and have never been to the Poconos. Shoot...I've never even been to Pennsylvania!

[Where'sPiglet?]

DisneyTiger...I meant to ask you how Orange Beach was!

So, how was it?

[DisneyTiger]

Hello everyone! Greetings from Baton Rouge! Things have been a bit crazy around here lately, as usual. Let's see, where to begin. Well, we had a wonderful time in Orange Beach. It was just what this family needed. I uploaded a few pics...

Aubrey searching for "Sheshells"

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/May%20PTR/055.jpg
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/May%20PTR/057.jpg
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/May%20PTR/061.jpg

Daddy and his girl...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/May%20PTR/0632.jpg

Brendan ended up loving the beach!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/May%20PTR/135.jpg

Cool pic...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/May%20PTR/078.jpg

The biggest jelly fish I have EVER seen!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/May%20PTR/hugejellyfish.jpg

Fun with cutouts at FloraBama (a very cool family friendly (during the day) bar and grill on the boarder of Florida and Alabama, hence FloraBama)

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/May%20PTR/188.jpg
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/May%20PTR/194.jpg

In Jason's defense on this one, I swore to him that he was standing behind the biker dude:rotfl2:
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/May%20PTR/189.jpg

The end to a very fun weekend...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/May%20PTR/106.jpg


When we got home from the beach, I had a letter waiting for me from DVC. I anxiously opened it to find that I got Wednesday night at AKL!!! :banana: Remember I was on the waiting list and was going to have to stay at ASMu which is fine but I was going to have to check in to AKL before going to the parks and it was going to be a pain??? Ok, just to recap:) So I'm excited about this. I am just worried now that I'm goiing to have to get the dining plan for that night. Does anyone happen to know if you can refuse the dining plan for the night you check in, especially since we won't be getting there until almost 10pm??? We shall see.

Ok, I have to tell you about my crazy day yesterday but first I need to go check on the kids who are playing out in the backyard unsupervised. Bad mommy!

[HeatherBelle614]

Fabulous pictures! What a fun vacation; I LOVE your DD's swimsuit. So cute!

Yay for your exciting news from DVC!

I'm not sure about the DDP question, though. If they do make you keep it for that night, maybe you can just use the credits for some other day on your trip? That's what we're doing with our first night's credits!

[vamassey1]

Looks like you had a great time! How cold was the water?

[shordiebecka]

I am sitting here, beyond jealous that you got to go to the beach when it's 40 degrees where I am!

Just found your PTR! Love it so far. I am in the same situation, staying at AsMu for one night then going to AKL for 7 nights..I am still contemplating how to go about it! I think I will just pay out of my pocket for food until I get to AKL later in the day...

Anyways, loving your PTR so far. Can't wait to hear more!

[my2disneyboys]

It looks like you had a great vacation. I am green with envy!
I need the beach!!!! Beautiful Pictures. Myles (my 5 year old said he likes the jellyfish picture)

[DisneyTiger]

Fabulous pictures! What a fun vacation; I LOVE your DD's swimsuit. So cute!

Yay for your exciting news from DVC!

I'm not sure about the DDP question, though. If they do make you keep it for that night, maybe you can just use the credits for some other day on your trip? That's what we're doing with our first night's credits!

Thanks! Her bathing suit is from Gymboree. I love the print on her too. She's a sassy girl:) I am so excited about staying at AKL all nights. It will just make life easier for me. I know that I can use the credits on another day but I'm just not sure when. We shall see. Maybe Aubrey and I can have a special mommy daughter lunch. All of our other meals are going to be with my sisters that we are meeting there.

Looks like you had a great time! How cold was the water?

The water in the gulf was pretty cold. I was able to go in to my waste. It really was a great time to be at the beach. The temps were in the upper 70's. It was great!

I am sitting here, beyond jealous that you got to go to the beach when it's 40 degrees where I am!

Just found your PTR! Love it so far. I am in the same situation, staying at AsMu for one night then going to AKL for 7 nights..I am still contemplating how to go about it! I think I will just pay out of my pocket for food until I get to AKL later in the day...

Anyways, loving your PTR so far. Can't wait to hear more!

I know. I am so ready for summer to get here! I am usually such a cold weather person but not this year. I'm ready for the sun!

So glad you are reading along! The problem I was having with staying at ASMu was that we would have had to check out of ASMu and then check in at AKL all before even getting to the park! It was going to be crazy. I don't know what I'll do about the dining. I'm sure I'll come up with something!

[DisneyTiger]

It looks like you had a great vacation. I am green with envy!
I need the beach!!!! Beautiful Pictures. Myles (my 5 year old said he likes the jellyfish picture)

Hee hee, you're so funny with your green:) That jellyfish was frightening:scared1: and they found it right next to where DH and DD were playing in the water!!!

I've been trying to catch up on your report today. I am very behind:rolleyes1 Once things settle down around here, I'll get to reading:)

[coteau_chick]

It looks like you had a wonderful weekend. I want to go to the beach. We saw lots of jellyfish that big in Gulf Shores last summer. I hate jellyfish. What happened in the back yard? You never came back:rotfl2:

[DisneyTiger]

It looks like you had a wonderful weekend. I want to go to the beach. We saw lots of jellyfish that big in Gulf Shores last summer. I hate jellyfish. What happened in the back yard? You never came back:rotfl2:

I have never seen one that big. It was nasty! Can you imagine what a sting from that thing would feel like? :scared1: I've been stung many times but by the smaller ones and that is no fun!

[DisneyTiger]

So sorry I never came back yesterday. All was well in the backyard. I just got sidetracked. Which is what I do all day. I can never finish anything I start. I've just come to the realization that that is my life with a 2 and a 3 year old. Speaking of, Brendan is officially 2 today! Two years ago at this time, we were laying in a quiet hospital room enjoying good food and friends. Ahhh, to hospitalized again:lmao: You know, I'm the one that had my stomach cut open (C-section). I really think the mom's should get some kind of a present on their kids birthday for all they went through, don't you???
Anywho, I have been so busy planning his birthday party. We're having it here at the house on Saturday and since it's going to be such a beautiful day (high is 75) and since I've been craving crawfish like a crazy person, we've decided to make it a crawfish boil birthday party:cool1: That just means there's a lot more planning to do. I know most of you have never been to a crawfish boil so I will take lots of pics for you so you can see how it all goes down! Ummmm, can't wait.

Ok, so I must tell you about my day on Tuesday... Brendan came into our room in the middle of the night, which is not abnormal for him. I went to put him back in bed and found that he had thrown up everywhere:sad2: He had a bad rash the night before so I had given him some benedryl. I just figured that that made him sick. When we woke up the next day, he was fine so I got them dressed and we headed off to school. They both were acting totally fine until we walked in the front door of the building. Yep, he threw up everywhere, again. Fun. Had to take him home and get my mom to watch him because I had a hair appointment that morning. Thank God for my mom:love: Ok, so went to pick Aubrey up from school and was walking her back to the car when I suddenly felt a shove from behind and fell to my knees. I stood up to see what had run into me and was shocked to see that I had just been hit but a Suburban:scared1: :scared1: :scared1: Yes, someone hit me with their car! Thankfully, I was not hurt and neither was Aubrey. And to top it all off, the woman didn't even get out of the car to check on us. She just rolled down her window and said "OMG, I'm so sorry. I didn't see you!" Then she proceeded to drive off. She must have been late for her tennis lesson. I stood there in disbelief. Did that just happen!!! About this time, Aubrey started saying that she didn't feel good. Long story short, she threw up everywhere in the car on the way home.

This was one of the worst days I've had in a long time. I could not believe I had been thrown up on twice and hit but a car. Really. I told Aubrey's teacher about it and she was shocked. I really didn't want to make a big deal out of it but then I started thinking how much worse it could have been. If Brendan would had been with me, he would have been the one hit by the car because he would have been on that side of me. I have a friend that actually lost a child in a Walmart parking lot. She was carring him and someone literally ran them over. It was horrible. That's all I kept thinking about. Moral of the story people.... LOOK BEHIND YOU WHEN YOU ARE BACKING OUT. You never know who could be there! DD's teacher was meeting with the director today to talk about the incident. Hopefully they will send out a memo or something.

Alright, just had to share that story with you. Now I have to go call Disney to figure out my dining plan. I think I may do a meal with just me and Aubrey. Any suggestions of what would be a cute mother/daughter meal???

[my2disneyboys]

OK... So that is a CRAZY story!! I can't believe you were hit by a car!!! :scared1: So many kids around us have had that stomach bug and luckily we haven't had it. Is everyone better now?? Do you have Christmas Tree Shops? These are my favorite stores in the world!! I was at one the other day and a similar thing happened to me. This very old woman was backing up and I was walking to my car with Owen (he was in the shopping cart) and it happened so fast- she didn't even look and all of a sudden I had to pull my cart back so fast- I was shaking. Owen would have been hit if I didn't pull back as fast as I did. The woman didn't get out of her car either but was very sorry- I said to her without even thinking "you are too old to be driving obviously- you could have really hurt us!:mad: " I felt bad for saying it after but I was just so scared/angry!

[my2disneyboys]

oops I forgot to add- I am very jealous of all the moms with little girls who get to dress their daughters up and take them to the Grand Floridian for tea. I would do that if I was you!

[coteau_chick]

You had a rough beginning to your week. I am so glad you are ok. Someone hit me like that when I was pregnant for Grace but I was ok too. We had the same bug over here. Brennan woke me up Tuesday morning saying that he had thrown up. When I got upstairs I could have died. He threw up all over their bathroom. I even threw away the shower curtain. :scared1: Courtney went to school and then called for us to check her out. She was throwing up too. I started throwing up Wed. morning. Grace is fine and I pray that she doesn't get it.

[coteau_chick]

I forgot to tell you I had a dream about you. I dreamed you and I were both pregnant and we were both having boys. When I have these dreams usually someone turns up pregnant.:scared1: Who will it be????:rotfl2:

[HeatherBelle614]

Aw; I'm sorry about the messy sickness! Poor thing!

OMG! A car hit you and didn't even really stop? What a horrible woman! I would've been out of the car begging you to let me take you to the hospital, for forgiveness, etc. How rude! I don't understand some people anymore!

[wdwgirl03]

This trip sounds so fun! And how exciting you are staying at the AKV! :thumbsup2

[DisneyTiger]

Hey everyone. Sorry I've been missing lately. Can you believe that my kids are STILL sick???:scared1: Needless to say, it's been a long couple of weeks. We had Brendan's 2nd birthday party last weekend and I took some crawfish boil pics just for my DIS friends. There are also a few of his cake and the birthday boy. I did a "Word World" theme and had to get really creative because there isn't anything out there for Word World parties. It's his favorite show...

Here's a pic of the crawfish being poured out on the table. We all gather around and graze...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/097.jpg

Aubrey checks them out...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/099.jpg

She picks out a good one. Look at those claws!!!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/102.jpg

Ok, so I had to get a pic of someone sucking the head, because yes, that's what we do. Here is my BIL giving us a demo...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/119.jpg

Here are some pics of the cakes that I had to make on my own. I am not a baker but I'm proud of how they turned out...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/029.jpg
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/031.jpg

And here is Brendan letting go of his birthday balloons...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/130.jpg
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/134.jpg

Alright, I will be back later with some Disney updates. I have exciting news to share. Hint: there are more Disney trips in my future:banana::banana::banana:

[coteau_chick]

Hey everyone. Sorry I've been missing lately. Can you believe that my kids are STILL sick???:scared1: Needless to say, it's been a long couple of weeks. We had Brendan's 2nd birthday party last weekend and I took some crawfish boil pics just for my DIS friends. There are also a few of his cake and the birthday boy. I did a "Word World" theme and had to get really creative because there isn't anything out there for Word World parties. It's his favorite show...

Here's a pic of the crawfish being poured out on the table. We all gather around and graze...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/097.jpg

Aubrey checks them out...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/099.jpg

She picks out a good one. Look at those claws!!!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/102.jpg

Ok, so I had to get a pic of someone sucking the head, because yes, that's what we do. Here is my BIL giving us a demo...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/119.jpg

Here are some pics of the cakes that I had to make on my own. I am not a baker but I'm proud of how they turned out...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/029.jpg
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/031.jpg

And here is Brendan letting go of his birthday balloons...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/130.jpg
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/134.jpg

Alright, I will be back later with some Disney updates. I have exciting news to share. Hint: there are more Disney trips in my future:banana::banana::banana:

You just made me hungry. I want some crawfish too. I have been so busy lately . I started babysitting my niece. She is the same age as Grace so it is like having twins. She is really good so it is not bad. They are so cute together. She calls Grace, Gace and Grace calls Emily, Emme. I could just pinch them they are so cute. I have bad news my sewing machine died. I sent it to the shop today. I hope it comes back good. I am sorry I haven't done your dresses yet we were throwing up last week and my machine died this week. I need to PM you my number so we can talk. I am glad you came back. I need to update my report too.

[Where'sPiglet?]

Okay, somehow I missed a LOT of your updates! :confused3

The photos, as always, are great!

I am going to be down your way next week but I don't know if I'm going to be able to see you. I missed the 100 day mark on days left in my lease; I'm at 91 days left! Guess I better figure out what to do come July 1! :scared1:

I forgot to tell you I had a dream about you. I dreamed you and I were both pregnant and we were both having boys. When I have these dreams usually someone turns up pregnant.:scared1: Who will it be????:rotfl2:

:scared: LOL this could get interesting...

[kathleen27]

I'm sorry to hear your family has been sick. Jacob through up at school last Thursday too. Luckily it was just the once. It seems this winter has been really bad for everyone being sick. I don't think we've ever had this many colds/ sore throats over the year before. :sad2:

I cannot believe that lady hit you! :eek: And didn't even get out of the car. :sad2: Glad you are all ok!


Your trip plans sound great! AKL looks fantastic! Glad you got the extra day there!

Looks like a fun birthday party!

Love the beach pictures!!!!

[my2disneyboys]

Hi there!
Hope everyone is feeling better. Just wanted to check in and say HI! I am so excited- only 28 more days for me!! ::dancer:

[coteau_chick]

Are you ok? I am getting worried about you. Please let us know you are ok.

[DisneyTiger]

I'm sorry to hear your family has been sick. Jacob through up at school last Thursday too. Luckily it was just the once. It seems this winter has been really bad for everyone being sick. I don't think we've ever had this many colds/ sore throats over the year before. :sad2:

I cannot believe that lady hit you! :eek: And didn't even get out of the car. :sad2: Glad you are all ok!


Your trip plans sound great! AKL looks fantastic! Glad you got the extra day there!

Looks like a fun birthday party!

Love the beach pictures!!!!

Hey Kathleen,

Good to hear from you. I hope Jacob is feeling better. Seems like someone has been sick around here for the last 2 months:scared1:

Hi there!
Hope everyone is feeling better. Just wanted to check in and say HI! I am so excited- only 28 more days for me!! ::dancer:

Your trip is REALLY around the corner now! I am so excited!!! It will be here before you/we know it!:cool1:

Are you ok? I am getting worried about you. Please let us know you are ok.

Hey Laura,

I am ok. It's been a crazy couple of weeks around here. I just haven't had the time to be on the boards. I miss everyone:love: thanks for checking in!

[DisneyTiger]

Hi everyone. I'm so sorry I havent' been around much lately. Things have been a bit crazy. To start, Aubrey has had multiple ear infections and a ruptured ear drum. Both of Brendan's ears are infected too. We're just finishing up the medicine for him. Then Aubrey wakes up cring last night because her ear hurt. :scared1:Guess we'll be going BACK to the dr tomorrow!

In addition to my kids being sick, I have not been well either. About 2.5 years ago, when I was pregnant with Brendan, I found out I had gall stones. I would have horrible attacks, two of which sent me to the ER because the pain was so bad. Once I had Brendan, the attacks slowed down but I still had them. Last weekend was my breaking point. I began feeling really sick on Friday night and by Sunday I was miserable. I spent Easter Sunday in my bed, missing all of the fun and yummy food. After seening multiple doctors, a trip to the ER, a CAT scan and numerous other tests, I FINALLY had my gall bladder removed this past Thursday! It was such a long ordeal. The thing should have been removed 2 years ago but my doc was acting very conservatively about it. We had to take things into our own hands and found a surgeon who would take it out. I am now feeling a lot better but still pretty sore from the surgery. It's been rough, can I tell you!

Ok, so all of that being said, there have been some exciting developments on the Disney front. Let's see, where to begin...

Well, a few months ago, Jasons's sister and her husband told us that they want to go to Disney with us at Christmas time. You know you don't have to twist my arm. We were totally up for it. Well, this is my sister in law who had a baby very premature last year. Some of you who read my previous report may remember the story. They tried for over 3 years to get pregnant and after seeing many doctors, she finally got pregnant only to deliver him at 28 weeks! It was scary but almost a year later, he's a normal healthy little boy. I'm sure you're probably wondering what in the world this has to do with Disney. Well, we decided on the dates we wanted to go in Dec and the next morning I picked up the phone to call DVC to make the reservation. Before I could dial, my phone rang. It was my SIL. She took two pregnancy tests and they were positive!!!! She's freaking pregnant!!! No one though this was possible especially after everything they went through to have their first child. So we calculated the due date, yeah.... last week of November. Looks like our family Christmas Disney trip was off. I have to say, Jason and I were bummed, but still very happy about their good news!

Suprisingly, Jason took it upon himself and found out when the food and wine fest was going on. This is by far our favorite event at Disney, besides Christmas. He had a great idea for us to take a quick trip to Disney and leave the kids with his parents! Woo hooo! I know I married the right man:love: So yes, instead of going in December, we are now going in Oct, by ourselves!!! 10/1 for three nights staying at BCV!!! I am beyond excited!

[DisneyTiger]

So here are our upcoming Disney plans...

May - Mother / Daughter Trip
Oct - Mommy / Daddy Trip
March - Brendan's 3rd birthday trip (just like we did for Aubrey)

I should also note that we have not completely ruled out a trip in December. We haven't been at Christmas time in a long time and I'm having withdrawls. So, I sat down and figured out how much it was going to cost for tickets for all of these trips. Turns out that it would be about $600 less if we purchased annual passes at the DVC discounted rate than if we were to purchase the tickets seperately for each trip. That was a no brainer. So now we have unlimited tickets to use from May 09 to May 10. Also, the room that I have for our Mother / Daughter trip sleeps 4. Do you see where I'm going with this??? :rolleyes1Yes, Jason and Brendan are crashing our Mother / Daughter trip! I was torn about this. While I really wanted to conquer the world by myself with Aubrey, I just kept picturing leaving Jason and Brendan behind at the airport. It actually brought me to tears every time I thought about it. Then I would close my eyes and picture myself on Main Street. Each timeI did this, Jason was by my side. I just can't leave them behind. Who was I kidding!!! WDW is such a special place for us. It just wouldn't be the same without one of us. Maybe one day in the future when Aubrey is older I'll take her on a girls trip. But for now, it's all or non:thumbsup2

So that's what's been going on around here. I have made some dining plans that I will share with you asap. I need to find where I wrote them all down. My trips are kind of blending together in my head! More later:cutie:

[my2disneyboys]

WOW! First- I am so sorry to hear about all the health issues. I am glad you are feeling better. For the kids- Do they have tubes? My boys are the KINGS of ear infections. We go to Massachusetts Eye and Ear- which is a great hospital- specializing in ears! - I know more about ear infections than I want to!! Myles started having them when he was 2 months old. At 9 months he got tubes put in. (We went to Disney 2 weeks after his surgery- I was so nervous about the plane- but they said it would actually make it better for him) and even with the tubes he got ear infections that just wouldnt go away! He had a second set put in and around 4 years old they stopped! Now he needs to go in again and see if the tubes need to be removed with surgery or if they came out on their own. Owen had multiple ear infections and had a set of tubes in when he was 9 months too. But his ear infections have stopped!! The tubes have done wonders with him. He did have a ruptured ear and his hearing is slightly off- i think that is why he isnt talking very much!!! my poor baby. But I just wanted to empathize with you- I know how it is when your kids have ear infections - it is awful and expensive and nobody sleeps.... the list goes on. I hope everyone gets better soon for you.

I cant wait to hear more about your trips- I cant believe how many you have planned. I am so jealous. I am already thinking of our next trip and we havent even gone on this one yet!:rotfl:

[DisneyTiger]

WOW! First- I am so sorry to hear about all the health issues. I am glad you are feeling better. For the kids- Do they have tubes? My boys are the KINGS of ear infections. We go to Massachusetts Eye and Ear- which is a great hospital- specializing in ears! - I know more about ear infections than I want to!! Myles started having them when he was 2 months old. At 9 months he got tubes put in. (We went to Disney 2 weeks after his surgery- I was so nervous about the plane- but they said it would actually make it better for him) and even with the tubes he got ear infections that just wouldnt go away! He had a second set put in and around 4 years old they stopped! Now he needs to go in again and see if the tubes need to be removed with surgery or if they came out on their own. Owen had multiple ear infections and had a set of tubes in when he was 9 months too. But his ear infections have stopped!! The tubes have done wonders with him. He did have a ruptured ear and his hearing is slightly off- i think that is why he isnt talking very much!!! my poor baby. But I just wanted to empathize with you- I know how it is when your kids have ear infections - it is awful and expensive and nobody sleeps.... the list goes on. I hope everyone gets better soon for you.

I cant wait to hear more about your trips- I cant believe how many you have planned. I am so jealous. I am already thinking of our next trip and we havent even gone on this one yet!:rotfl:


Well, thankfully Aubrey's ears were clear today!!!:cool1:So no tubes yet. No, my poor baby boy has a raw bottom because of the antibiotic he's on for his ears:scared1:It's just never ending!!!!! Sounds like you have had lots of experience in that area!

Oh, I'm always planning at least one trip ahead. Jason and I have already picked where we're eating on our grown up trip - Jiko and LeCellier! Two places that we would likely not go with kids!

Hopping over to your pretrippie to catch up!

[DisneyTiger]

Hi everyone! Just a quick post to say that I got our ME voucher today:cool1::cool1::cool1: I didtn't get too excited though because they're the old ones. I have since added Jason and Brendan to the reservation and bumped up our flight time. Oh well, the correct ones should be here soon! It doesn't even seem real that we're going! I need to get on the ball and start collecting stuff for the plane! I'm soooooo behind!!!!! I shoud be ashamed:rolleyes1

[coteau_chick]

Hi everyone! Just a quick post to say that I got our ME voucher today:cool1::cool1::cool1: I didtn't get too excited though because they're the old ones. I have since added Jason and Brendan to the reservation and bumped up our flight time. Oh well, the correct ones should be here soon! It doesn't even seem real that we're going! I need to get on the ball and start collecting stuff for the plane! I'm soooooo behind!!!!! I shoud be ashamed:rolleyes1

I sent you a pm with my phone number. Call me. It sounds like you are having my luck lately.:hug: My sewing machine broke and I borrowed my MIL's hers broke on me too. I have my mom's now. I still want to try to get you the dresses. Call me.
Laura:hug:

[kathleen27]

I'm sorry you guys are still feeling sick. I hope the kids ears get better soon.

Being sick on Easter sounds terrible. I hope you are feeling better now.

That is great that you have several trips in the works!!!

[my2disneyboys]

Hey Talissa!
I saw that you posted on my trip report- I can't wait to see what you come up with for your airport bags!! I am glad that I inspired you- although your trip report for your last trip is the reason why I even wrote a Pre Trip Report!!

I agree that even though a Mommy and Daughter trip would be very special- how could you not feel bad for not having your son there to experience it all too- nevermind your hubby (who loves Disney like you do!) You guys will have another great trip and I can't wait to hear all about your plans. What are your plans!? Where are you eating??

[DisneyTiger]

I sent you a pm with my phone number. Call me. It sounds like you are having my luck lately.:hug: My sewing machine broke and I borrowed my MIL's hers broke on me too. I have my mom's now. I still want to try to get you the dresses. Call me.
Laura:hug:

Hey Laura, I did get your message. Sorry I haven't called you yet. Maybe I can try today during nap. There just never seems to be a good time to get on the phone. I want to talk to you though! I hope everyone is feeling better. We're almost back to normal over here:thumbsup2

I'm sorry you guys are still feeling sick. I hope the kids ears get better soon.

Being sick on Easter sounds terrible. I hope you are feeling better now.

That is great that you have several trips in the works!!!

We are feeling a lot better. Easter was a bummer. I missed out on somegreat food:(

We are so excited about our upcoming trips! I wish is was May already!!!

Hey Talissa!
I saw that you posted on my trip report- I can't wait to see what you come up with for your airport bags!! I am glad that I inspired you- although your trip report for your last trip is the reason why I even wrote a Pre Trip Report!!

I agree that even though a Mommy and Daughter trip would be very special- how could you not feel bad for not having your son there to experience it all too- nevermind your hubby (who loves Disney like you do!) You guys will have another great trip and I can't wait to hear all about your plans. What are your plans!? Where are you eating??

You're so sweet. Yes, I feel the same way. I just really can't picture me in the World without Jason and Brendan. Maybe Aubrey and I can do a girls trip when she's older.

I know! I haven't shared my plans yet have I?? Man, I'm a bad reporter this time around!

[DisneyTiger]

Hi everyone. I am trying my hardest to get things back to normal around my house. I am finally starting to feel better after my surgery last week. What a miserable experience that was. The only upside is is that I've lost nearly 10lbs since last Monday:cool1:

I have also realized that I have pretty much not shared anything with y'all about our trip and that's pretty much the whole point of writing a PTR right??? I do apologize. So here are the plans...

Wednesday, May 27th... fly out of New Orleans on Southwest at 3:25pm
Arrive 6:10. Our flight is later in the day because Jason has to work in the morning. No biggie. We'll just hang out at the hotel and swim the night we get there. I LOVE AKL:love:It's the whole reason we bought into DVC. We looked into DVC back when the home resort was SSR but decided not to do it. But when we heard the home resort was AKL, we were sold!!!!!

Alrighty, so we get there late Wednesday, eat dinner and hang out at the pool. We'll try to get some good rest that night because the next day we'll be heading out early to Epcot to meet up with my two sisters, their husbands, and my 4 nieces and 1 nephew! We are so excited to be sharing a trip with family. We have NEVER been with anyone but ourselves. Aubrey is going to have so much fun playing with her cousins!!! We are officially a grand gathering:thumbsup2

Thursday, May 28th... the plan is to meet up with everyone at Epcot and then the girls will head over to The Garden View Tea Room at GF for afternoon tea at 2:00. I think that this will be a fun girlie thing to do. It's still kind of up in the air if we'll go or not. Guess we'll just have to see if we're up for it or if we want to stay in the park!

Later that evening, we'll walk from Epcot over to the BC for Cape May Cafe. We stayed at BCV last year and absolutely fell in love with the place. The plan is to eat dinner at 6:00 and then head out to the beach for the campfire singalong. We'll also be able to see Illuminations from the beach. Can't wait to have a Mojito from Hurricane Hannah's. Yum, they're good!!! Then it will be off to bed to get ready for the next day.

Friday, May 29th... we will meet up with one of my sisters, her husband and their two girl's for breakfast at Crystal Palace. As many times as I've been to WDW, I've NEVER done CP and I am so excited!!! Our reservation is for 8:50 so I'm hoping we can get into the park a bit early and take some good pictures on an empty main street. I REALLY want a shot of my kids walking up the ramp infront of the castle holding hands! We'll probably stay at MK for most of the day but we'll see. This trip is going to be extremely flexible. We'll just go where the wind takes us:rotfl:

Saturday, May 30th... Jason and I and the kids will be eating breakfast today at Boma. It will be so cool to wake up and head downstairs for our meal! We've never had this breakfast before but I've heard it's wonderful! Boma is our fav place for dinner so I'm sure it won't let us down. The plan for this day is not set in stone yet. We'll probably hit AK and DHS!

That night, everyone (all 13 of us) will be eating at BOMA! I can't wait to show off our "home" to everyone! After dinner, we'll hang out at the hotel and check out the animals. Hopefully they'll have the night vision goggles out. It's really cool to look at the animals with them!

Sunday, May 31... We'll wake up and eat a QS breakfast at the resort then ME will whisk us off to MCO for our flight!

It is going to be a quick trip but I think it will be lots of fun since we'll be sharing it with family. This is SO unlike any other trip I've ever planned. Normally, I would have had our itinerary planned down to the minute with every single step accounted for. Not this time. I really can't do that since we'll be with such a large group. I'm excited to see how it all plays out.

Alrighty, I'm off to put Brendan down for a nap. I'll be back with more soon!

[coteau_chick]

You have had such a rough time lately. I hope it gets better over there. I know how it feels. We went from medical issues here to things breaking. I am using my nephew's computer because our laptop broke. It is with Geek Squad right now. My sewing machine broke, my camcorder broke. My dishwasher broke. I think we have Gremlins. :rotfl2: I do have my nanny's sewing machine now so if you want those dresses call me. I am babysitting my little Great Niece now. She is the same age as Grace. It is like having twins. They get into some stuff. I am on the computer only because they are napping. I know how you feel with Brendan. I love nap time.

[vamassey1]

Your plans sound wonderful!! I love sharing the magic with family. We had a group of 15 on our Thanksgiving 2002 trip. Meals are the best time to be together.

I'm doing a mother daughter trip with my youngest in June for her 10th birthday. I'm in the reverse situation. Started out as a family trip now it's just the two of us.

[my2disneyboys]

Your plans sound great and pretty relaxing for Disney! We went as a Grand Gathering with my husbands WHOLE family.... YIKES:scared1: It was a rough trip because 1st) it was the week after xmas! 2) It was Myles first trip and he was 9 months old, we just couldnt do what we wanted, when we wanted and 3) we were all staying at the same hotel and made the mistake that we all had to do everything TOGETHER.... So it was with that trip that Wayne and I decided Disney is for JUST US!! Hee- Hee!! Don't take me the wrong way- I am SURE you guys will have an amazing Grand Gathering- especially because the cousins will get to be together and you will be with your sisters... Lucky!!! Also because you guys have been so many times, so you don't have that "I need to see this or that!!"
We love Boma too. Do you know when they do the campfire at Boma? We were thinking after our dinner it would be nice to do that.

[DisneyTiger]

You have had such a rough time lately. I hope it gets better over there. I know how it feels. We went from medical issues here to things breaking. I am using my nephew's computer because our laptop broke. It is with Geek Squad right now. My sewing machine broke, my camcorder broke. My dishwasher broke. I think we have Gremlins. :rotfl2: I do have my nanny's sewing machine now so if you want those dresses call me. I am babysitting my little Great Niece now. She is the same age as Grace. It is like having twins. They get into some stuff. I am on the computer only because they are napping. I know how you feel with Brendan. I love nap time.


My Lord, what luck you've been having!!! I hope things have settled down over there. You know what they say, when it rains it pours. That's how it usually is around here too, especially when the kids get sick. We are all finally feeling better. I don't want to jinx myself! As far as the outfits, I would love to still get them but I really don't want to put you out. I found some cute stuff on clearance at disneyshopping.com. Let me figure out what I want to do then I'll call you. Thanks so much! You're too sweet!

Your plans sound wonderful!! I love sharing the magic with family. We had a group of 15 on our Thanksgiving 2002 trip. Meals are the best time to be together.

I'm doing a mother daughter trip with my youngest in June for her 10th birthday. I'm in the reverse situation. Started out as a family trip now it's just the two of us.

Wow, that is a big group. We saw another one of my sisters on a previous trip but only for a half day. I really just want to share WDW with my family. It's such a special place for us and I want them to experience that too. Especially my sister who has never been! Can't wait to see their reactions.

Your trip sounds wonderful. I think that it would be better if I wait until Aubrey is older. I bet 10 will be a great age to share a mother/daughter trip!

Your plans sound great and pretty relaxing for Disney! We went as a Grand Gathering with my husbands WHOLE family.... YIKES:scared1: It was a rough trip because 1st) it was the week after xmas! 2) It was Myles first trip and he was 9 months old, we just couldnt do what we wanted, when we wanted and 3) we were all staying at the same hotel and made the mistake that we all had to do everything TOGETHER.... So it was with that trip that Wayne and I decided Disney is for JUST US!! Hee- Hee!! Don't take me the wrong way- I am SURE you guys will have an amazing Grand Gathering- especially because the cousins will get to be together and you will be with your sisters... Lucky!!! Also because you guys have been so many times, so you don't have that "I need to see this or that!!"
We love Boma too. Do you know when they do the campfire at Boma? We were thinking after our dinner it would be nice to do that.


I know that traveling with a large group can be challenging. That's why I'm keeping my plans so flexible. I don't plan on us all being attached at the hip while we're together. I just don't see how that would work. A pack of 13 people sticking together and all agreeing on what they want to do next:scared1:I'm just trying to stay very open minded:)


Boma is our favorite place. I'm not sure that there is a campfire at AKL. I know that they do have story time around the big firepit outside. That's really cool. They have these really big and comfy rocking chairs that everyone can sit it. It's just such a great resort, even just to visit!

[DisneyTiger]

Hi everyone. I hope you all had a great weekend. We had our church fair this weekend and man, I'm exhausted! DH and I both were saying that we feel like we've been at Disney! It takes a lot out of you! The kids had a blast and really enjoyed all of the rides. We were in Disney just 6 months ago and already they've changed so much. They both really got into the fair fun. I think that this trip is going to be a lot different than the first, in a good way. Brendan was 18 months and has changed so much. Aubrey too! She's growing up so fast. I'm really getting excited!

So, I finally started on their plane goodie bags. I went to Walgreens the other night and found a few things....

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/033.jpg

-Two coloring books
-Two little glow in the dark alien looking toys (they were buy one get one free so why not)
-Two battery operated fans
-Sunglasses
-A little stationary set for Aubrey
-A little notebook for me to makes notes in which I NEED to start doing!!!

I have sense made a trip to the $$ store. I will share that stuff later because it's still in the bag!

I also bought two of these from Laughing Place.

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/mickeybag.jpg

I am going to try personalize them. They'll say "Brendan's Disney World Bag" and "Aubrey's Disney World Bag" I thought it would be cute for them to use on the plane. Alrighty, that's it for now. I need to get my thoughts together. I have convinced Jason to leave earlier on the 27th but to change our flights, it will cost $160! I may see if we can fly in late on the 26th. I know I'm bad:rolleyes1

[my2disneyboys]

Those plane bags are adorable- I cant wait to see what they look like personalized. You guys go so often they will get lots of use out of them too!

[DisneyTiger]

Those plane bags are adorable- I cant wait to see what they look like personalized. You guys go so often they will get lots of use out of them too!

1 Week and 2 Days!!!! How crazy is that to see on your ticker:cool1::cool1::cool1:

[my2disneyboys]

1 Week and 2 Days!!!! How crazy is that to see on your ticker:cool1::cool1::cool1:

It is AWESOME!!!! We have been walking around the house saying on Tuesday we can say "on Tuesday we will be in Disney!!!!"

[DisneyTiger]

Good evening! I have really been getting in the Disney mood lately! I am super excited about our trip. Our plans are staying the same. I'm not going to push it by coming in a day early. We're fine with what we have!

Sooooooo, I found this great app for my iphone. It's a Disney Secrets app and it lists a bunch of misc tips about WDW. I have started taking notes in my handy dandy notebook that I got from Walgreens. I plan on being the tour guide of my group and pointing out things for them. I decided to share some of my fav tips with you. Here's the first set...

MAGIC KINGDOM

Main Street USA:
-Listen while walking past the Main Street Station to a telegraph playing morse code. It's actually Walt Disney's speech that he gave on opening day.
-Look on the shelf in the Main Street Station to see the "lost and found" items found on the train
-Just outside of Tony's, sit on the bench next to Goofy and make him laugh
-Look in the cement outside of Tony's for Lady and Tramp's pawprints
-Go into the Main St. Market House and look for an old phone at the back of the store. Pick it up and listen to a conversation between a mother and daughter
-Turn right off of Main St. onto Center St. and look up for a window advertising piano and tap lessons. Listen carefully to hear them going on
-Notice that the trashcans in WDW are no more than 27 paces apart. Walt did a study and found that a person is not likely to walk more than 27 steps to throw something away. That is why the place is so spotless!

Frontierland:
-While riding Splash Mountain, notice the clouds near the paddle boat.
-Splash Mountain play area is a great place for little ones to play while big kids are on the ride.
-Look in the train station near Splash Mountain for an old wooden leg. It's from the movie Mary Poppins. The leg will have a tag on it that says "Smith".

Liberty Square:
-The Liberty Tree has 13 lanterns hanging in it representing the 13 original colonies
-Look at the second story window of the Hall of Presidents facing Haunter Mansion for Paul Revere's two lanterns
-Eat at Columbia Harbor House on the second floor. It's less crowded with a great view of Fantasyland

Fantasyland:
-Inside the shop Tinkerbell's Treasures, look in a small dresser up against the wall. Tink may be hiding in one of the top drawers. Peek through the keyhole to find her
-Be the first one there and ask to wake Tink up. If the music is already playing in the shop, that means she's already awake. If she is awake, look for her flying around the shop! She leaves a trail of pixie dust.
-Notice the small fountain next to Tinkerbell's Treasures. Bend down and see the crown appear on Cinderella's head

Cinderella Castle
-Look at the coat of arms over the front and rear entrances. The are the coat of arms for the Disney family.

Golden Carousel
-The horse with the golden ribbon in his tail is said to be Cinderella's favorite

Ariel's Grotto
-Notice the sea shells in the pavement as you approach the grotto

Winnie The Pooh
-Notice at the beginning of the ride a picture of Mr. Toad handing over the deed to Owl. Mr. Toad's Wild ride used to be located where the Pooh ride is now

Sir Mickey's Shop
-Look up to see Willie the giant peeking in under the roof

Cosmic Ray's Cafe
-Look for trash cans that have power cords coming out of them. Go up to one. It may talk to you!





Ok, so these are just some of my favs. I have read countless books with all of this kind of stuff and I never remember to look for any of these things. I am determined to notice them this time, with the help of my handy notebook!

[my2disneyboys]

Oh I am so printing those up and bringing them along with us. Thank you for sharing!!!

[DisneyTiger]

Oh I am so printing those up and bringing them along with us. Thank you for sharing!!!

You're very welcome! I will be doing more. Some for each park. Hopefully I'll get them all posted before you leave since you're LEAVING IN 8 DAYS!!!!!

[my2disneyboys]

You're very welcome! I will be doing more. Some for each park. Hopefully I'll get them all posted before you leave since you're LEAVING IN 8 DAYS!!!!!

:woohoo:I am going with 7 days! today shouldn't count- its almost over!:rotfl2:

[vamassey1]

Love the tips. I copied them too for our trip.

[DisneyTiger]

:woohoo:I am going with 7 days! today shouldn't count- its almost over!:rotfl2:

Now, day 7 is almost halfway over!:cool1:

Love the tips. I copied them too for our trip.

Great! I will be adding more in a bit.:thumbsup2

[DisneyTiger]

I did a bit of online shopping this morning. It's such a bummer because the Disney Store has closed since out last trip:( That's where I would go not only to get my Disney fix but also to get some cute clothes for the kids! Oh well, I found some really great deals at disneyshopping.com. Check out my loot!!!

A cute shirt for Brendan, on clearance! 9.99!
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/100209M.jpg

Then check out Aubrey's stuff! Poor boys, they never get the cute stuff:)
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/100510M.jpg
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/100686M.jpg
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/100799M.jpg

Ok, and I could not pass up these. I want some for myself!
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/100622M.jpg

[vamassey1]

I'm so bummed they closed the store. We always went in there every time we went to the mall. The year before last when I was waiting in the line that wrapped around the store on black Friday, the manager skipped me when she was checking dr lic because she knew who I was.

[DisneyTiger]

I'm so bummed they closed the store. We always went in there every time we went to the mall. The year before last when I was waiting in the line that wrapped around the store on black Friday, the manager skipped me when she was checking dr lic because she knew who I was.

Wow, I don't know if I could do black Friday at the mall. I've done it once before and only went to Comp USA. Never again:scared1:

[Where'sPiglet?]

I'm so bummed they closed the store. We always went in there every time we went to the mall. The year before last when I was waiting in the line that wrapped around the store on black Friday, the manager skipped me when she was checking dr lic because she knew who I was.

Why do they check driver's licenses of people waiting in the line to go in the store? I have not shopped early on Black Friday before; largely because it's FREEZING up here at that time of year and I also don't have a car. Maybe I'll go this year.

[DisneyTiger]

Hi all! I am home alone with the kids tonight so before I put them in the tub, I wanted to do a quick post. I have gathered some more tips! Here ya go:)

Animal Kingdom

Tree Of Life:
-Watch the leaves on the tree. There are more than 130,000 transparent leaves in different shades of green that blow in the wind
-There are 325 animals carved in the tree

Discovery Island Trails:
-Near the Tree Of Life, notice a rock with small holes. Look into them and notice that few of the animal carvings are framed by the holes!

Harambe:
-Stop in front of Tusker House and listen for the turmoil of a landlady upstairs banging on a door. Also listen for the hustle and bustle of the kitchen
-*****This is our FAVORITE thing to look for in AK and not many people know about her. As you are walking from Africa towards Asia, look for DeVine. She's a leaf covered lady that will amaze you. Check your times guide too. I think they may list her on there. Really, don't miss this!!!

Kali River Rapids:
-Notice the buttons on the bridge that crosses over Kali River. Press them to make the elephants down below spray people on the ride.


Hollywood Studios

Muppet Vision 3D:
-Look to the right when you walk in at a ticket window that has a sign which reads "Back in 5 minutes. Key under mat." Lift up the mat and see what's there
-Behind Muppets, look for a lamp post that has an umbrella attached to it. Have your camera ready as it begins to rain

Indiana Jones
-In the queue, look for a well with a rope coming out. Tug on the rope and hear a voice coming from the other end
-Notice some crates marked "Don't Open" and open them:)

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids
-Find the dog's nose between the hose and the film slide. Stick your hand up the nose and see what happens


Alright, that's all I got for now. More later hopefully. The plan tonight is to get the kids bathed and to bed so I can give myself a mani/pedi. We shall see!

[my2disneyboys]

-*****This is our FAVORITE thing to look for in AK and not many people know about her. As you are walking from Africa towards Asia, look for DeVine. She's a leaf covered lady that will amaze you. Check your times guide too. I think they may list her on there. Really, don't miss this!!!

OMG we have seen her on the planning DVD and Owen my youngest FREAKS out everytime he sees her- he shakes and says Nooooooooooooooo! I was telling Wayne we are going to have to avoid her at AK!!!

[vamassey1]

Why do they check driver's licenses of people waiting in the line to go in the store? I have not shopped early on Black Friday before; largely because it's FREEZING up here at that time of year and I also don't have a car. Maybe I'll go this year.

To help speed up check out, they were checking your dr lic is you were writing a check. I think they were also checking for credit cards too.

[DisneyTiger]

-*****This is our FAVORITE thing to look for in AK and not many people know about her. As you are walking from Africa towards Asia, look for DeVine. She's a leaf covered lady that will amaze you. Check your times guide too. I think they may list her on there. Really, don't miss this!!!

OMG we have seen her on the planning DVD and Owen my youngest FREAKS out everytime he sees her- he shakes and says Nooooooooooooooo! I was telling Wayne we are going to have to avoid her at AK!!!

That's funny. I can see how that would be freaky to the little ones:)

[DisneyTiger]

Hello everyone! Can I just tell you how much I LOVE the DISign board!!! Those DISigners are wonderful. Check out what cute graphics I've gotten...

First, on our last trip I had the characters autograph a picture mat which came out precious! See below...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/136.jpg

This time I wanted to do something a little different. I still think my kids are a bit too young to get the whole autograph book thing so I decided to bring a pillow case for each of them to get signed. Look at this precious graphic that I'm going to put on them...

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/goodnightaubrey.jpg
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/goodnightbrendan.jpg

I also requested a graphic because I want to make our group a "Grand Gathering" shirt for us all to wear one day. This came out so cute!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa243/becnelsu/0aGrand.jpg

I'll be putting it on red shirts. Should be cute!

Other than that, there really hasn't been much planning going on. I've kind of been distracted by this whole swine flu thing. Not looking forward to flying in a few weeks. Trying not to freak out about it!

[Where'sPiglet?]

SO CUTE!! :goodvibes

[my2disneyboys]

I love the pillow case idea... so cute. I was actually just telling Wayne today about your picture mat idea. He thought it may be tought to carry it around with us, (was it??) I think maybe we might just buy the blue books at Disney. The first year I made Myles a photo book (that gets signatures on one side and I put a picture on the other side) I was thinking of doing that again... but I leave in 2 days so my time is running out!!!!!

[PrincessBrideJo]

Loving the PTR and I made my hubby go to itunes RIGHT after i read that there are apps for Disneyworld! haha. He laughed at me (actually LOLed at me because we are talking over AIM as he is on a trip :rotfl2:). What cute ideas for the autographs. I am thinking we are just gonna do an autograph book this time just because I don't have time for anything else! haha.

[DisneyTiger]

Hi everyone....

Ok, so I know I've totally dropped the ball on this PTR and for that I apologize. I am, in fact, GOING TO DISNEY WORLD TODAY!!!:cool1::banana::yay::woohoo::dance3: Needless to say, we are very excited. I have been packing like a mad woman over the last few days so that I could relax today. We're leaving Baton Rouge at noon and heading to New Orleans. Our flight it at 3:25 so we're getting there plenty early. We should be to Orlando at around 6:00 (time changes) and to AKL at 7:00. My sisters are already there and have had to endure some pretty rough weather but I'm ok with that. I've got my LSU ponchos and stroller cover ready to go! We'll make the most of it I'm sure.

I PROMISE that I will do a decent trip report when I return. I'm not sure what this trip is going to be like. We're going to fly by the seat of our pants. This is completely opposite of our last trip when I have EVERYTHING planned. We shall see what works best for us!

Anyway, thanks to all of you who have read along this pathetic PTR:rolleyes1 I will return and bring lots of pictures and stories. We'll be back on Sunday. I'll come back here and put a link to my report when I start. Thanks everyone and see ya real soon! :)

[DisneyTiger]

Hi everyone! I have FINALLY started my trip report. Sorry for the delay!!! Follow me here (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=32634746#post32634746) to find out all about our wonderful trip!