Hitting the "Holiday Road" for Thanksgiving!

[Dallas_Lady]

Hi :wave: and welcome to my Pre-Trippie!

Let's start with the basics:

CAST

Me: Giovanna, "Disney Expert" of the family. I do all the trip planning, organizing, obsessing, etc.

DH: Tony, loves WDW but is blissfully ignorant to all the planning. He happily lets me plan everything and reaps the rewards. We have a marriage made in heaven :lovestruc

DD: Alexandra, 2 years old (3 at time of the trip). Loves all things Disney thanks to her mom and dad. She went to WDW for her 1st birthday, and is ready to see the "Cassie" (that's Castle for those who don't speak toddler) again. She will hopefully be potty trained when we go.

DS: John, 6 months (15 months at time of trip). He's the wild card. He just started crawling this week, and it is my hope that he is walking when we go. Babies change so much in the first year, I am not sure how he will handle things. He is a bit of a mama's boy :)

MIL: Charlotte, Tony's mom and Disney newbie. We never even thought she'd want to go to WDW with us, but she asked if she could come along on our next trip. The kids just love her, and since FIL passed away she spends a lot of time with us. No MIL horror stories here, we get along well. Having her along will present it's own challenges and benefits.

DETAILS (so far)

November 21-28, 2009
Windsor Hills 3 bedroom condo (www.vacationcentralflorida.com)

INTRODUCTION

Whenever I talk about my love for WDW, I always tell this story. My parents have been divorced since I was a baby, and I lived primarily with my grandmother growing up. Both my parents remarried and had kids, and I never really felt like I truly fit in with either of my families- I was always somewhere in between. When I was 17, I went with my father, stepmom and 2 younger brothers to Disneyworld. It was the best trip ever! For the first time I really felt like I belonged, and we had a blast. Every since then I have been in love with WDW and the great feeling it gives me when I am there.

We go to Disney every 2-3 years. Aside from my first trip, we have always stayed onsite at a moderate. However, we are taking the plunge and staying offsite in a condo at Windsor Hills. There are a few reasons for this change:

-Cost is probably the biggest factor. I have my condo booked for about half of what a moderate would cost, and a fraction of what a comparable DVC villa would be.
-We will have a vehicle, so I don't have to worry about transportation
-I really don't want to be crammed in a hotel room all week. This is especially the case with MIL coming along.
-Having a kitchen will make doing quick breakfasts easy

At first I was really nervous about this decision, but I am getting more and more excited. Windsor Hills seems to be really close to WDW, so it shouldn't take too long to get around.

Now, in the spirit of full disclosure, there are a few hurdles that could cause us to postpone our trip. Right now I'm a SAHM, but I'm currently looking for a teaching job for this fall. I don't anticipate not finding one, but you never know. Then, not all districts give you the whole week off for Thanksgiving. If I get a district that doesn't, I will have to take off Mon & Tues, which may be tough for a new teacher to do. So, I am keeping my fingers crossed that everything will fall into place .

[Dallas_Lady]

Saving space for helpful links

Child ID Bracelets (http://www.mypreciouskid.com/id-bracelet.html)

Disposable Coffee Cups (http://www.walgreens.com/store/product.jsp?CATID=100482&navAction=jump&navCount=1&skuid=sku1362763&id=prod1362773)

My favorite trip report (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1583307)

Windsor Hills Condo (http://www.vacationcentralflorida.com/3bedroom304.html)

Photopass Pre-Purchase (http://www.disneyphotopass.com/previsitcdplan.aspx)

Road Trip Map (http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=108784637475614512508.00046fb156de48e7f9480&z=6)

Disney Area Map (http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=108784637475614512508.00046f4e757da41a07b65&z=13)

[mousetravel]

Subscribing!! I remember visiting your website & looking at your pics a while back. Now that I've come across your new PTR, I just realized you had a new baby!!! Your kids are so cute! Can't wait to hear more about your pre planning and then your trip!

[Tinkmom75]

Hey, I just saw you on the November 2009 thread and saw you were staying at Windsor Hills. We will be there when you are! So cool.

[Dallas_Lady]

I know, I suck at Trip Reports :lmao: But, I'm still here and we're still going.

My favorite guidebook is the Passporter (http://www.amazon.com/PassPorters-Walt-Disney-World-2009/dp/1587710609). I love it because not only does it have good, consice information, but it has a great organizational section that helps me keep track of everything. I have bought one for each trip, and I debated buying another one. The information in the book section isn't really new, and since I have both a 2009 Unofficial Guide and a subscription to TGM (which I LOVE!) I just didn't see the need for another guidebook.

So, I decided to make my own Passporter to mimick the organizational section, which is all I wanted anyway. Plus, I'd be able to use it for more than Disney trips- such as our upcoming trip to Atlanta.

Here's what I'll need:
-Small binder (5x8 or so)
-Dividers with pockets for maps, receipts, tickets, etc.
-Pages for making daily itineraries
-Pages for writing general notes

Off to Office Max!

[Dallas_Lady]

I love this pack from ScrapMatters.

http://scrapmatters.com/shop/product.php?productid=1479&cat=0&page=1
http://scrapmatters.com/shop/images/cache/3e4cafbdb78d90df0cfca017048969de.jpg

[S'sMom]

I think that you will have a great time at Thanksgiving, and I think that your reasons for staying off property is a great idea. We too are staying off and it was so much cheaper. With 2 kids 10 months (almost 1) and 6 it can be a challenge. Your little one is crawling?? Oh OH! I knew I was in trouble when my little one started :rotfl: How wonderful that your MIL wants to go, I couldnt pay my mom or MIL to come with us to DIsney under any circumstances.

I think that you will find a teaching job with no problem. I also teach in Dallas and they are all looking for someone. You are right.. for the most part most of the districts in the area will have those first two days off for THanksgiving provided staff dev is done, but you know that.

I cant wait to read more :goodvibes



Hi :wave: and welcome to my Pre-Trippie!

Let's start with the basics:

CAST

Me: Giovanna, "Disney Expert" of the family. I do all the trip planning, organizing, obsessing, etc.

DH: Tony, loves WDW but is blissfully ignorant to all the planning. He happily lets me plan everything and reaps the rewards. We have a marriage made in heaven :lovestruc

DD: Alexandra, 2 years old (3 at time of the trip). Loves all things Disney thanks to her mom and dad. She went to WDW for her 1st birthday, and is ready to see the "Cassie" (that's Castle for those who don't speak toddler) again. She will hopefully be potty trained when we go.

DS: John, 6 months (15 months at time of trip). He's the wild card. He just started crawling this week, and it is my hope that he is walking when we go. Babies change so much in the first year, I am not sure how he will handle things. He is a bit of a mama's boy :)

MIL: Charlotte, Tony's mom and Disney newbie. We never even thought she'd want to go to WDW with us, but she asked if she could come along on our next trip. The kids just love her, and since FIL passed away she spends a lot of time with us. No MIL horror stories here, we get along well. Having her along will present it's own challenges and benefits.

DETAILS (so far)

November 21-28, 2009
Windsor Hills 3 bedroom condo (www.vacationcentralflorida.com)

INTRODUCTION

Whenever I talk about my love for WDW, I always tell this story. My parents have been divorced since I was a baby, and I lived primarily with my grandmother growing up. Both my parents remarried and had kids, and I never really felt like I truly fit in with either of my families- I was always somewhere in between. When I was 17, I went with my father, stepmom and 2 younger brothers to Disneyworld. It was the best trip ever! For the first time I really felt like I belonged, and we had a blast. Every since then I have been in love with WDW and the great feeling it gives me when I am there.

We go to Disney every 2-3 years. Aside from my first trip, we have always stayed onsite at a moderate. However, we are taking the plunge and staying offsite in a condo at Windsor Hills. There are a few reasons for this change:

-Cost is probably the biggest factor. I have my condo booked for about half of what a moderate would cost, and a fraction of what a comparable DVC villa would be.
-We will have a vehicle, so I don't have to worry about transportation
-I really don't want to be crammed in a hotel room all week. This is especially the case with MIL coming along.
-Having a kitchen will make doing quick breakfasts easy

At first I was really nervous about this decision, but I am getting more and more excited. Windsor Hills seems to be really close to WDW, so it shouldn't take too long to get around.

Now, in the spirit of full disclosure, there are a few hurdles that could cause us to postpone our trip. Right now I'm a SAHM, but I'm currently looking for a teaching job for this fall. I don't anticipate not finding one, but you never know. Then, not all districts give you the whole week off for Thanksgiving. If I get a district that doesn't, I will have to take off Mon & Tues, which may be tough for a new teacher to do. So, I am keeping my fingers crossed that everything will fall into place .

[Dallas_Lady]

Hey, I've got readers! Then I guess I better post more, LOL.

I teach middle and high school science, so I feel pretty confident that I will find a job, even though all I hear about are how districts are cutting budgets. I really want to be close to home, which would be Plano, Allen or Frisco ISD, but those are popular districts, so I may have to expand my search. I live in Plano, and that's my top choice.

[S'sMom]

Oh yea, you should be able to find something pretty quick. I also want to be closer to home. I work in the North near North Park Mall, but I live in the South so next year hopefully I can move closer.


Hey, I've got readers! Then I guess I better post more, LOL.

I teach middle and high school science, so I feel pretty confident that I will find a job, even though all I hear about are how districts are cutting budgets. I really want to be close to home, which would be Plano, Allen or Frisco ISD, but those are popular districts, so I may have to expand my search. I live in Plano, and that's my top choice.

[Dallas_Lady]

We're having John's 1st birthday party here at our house and the theme is, of course, Mickey Mouse. Though not trip related, it's Disney related so I'm going to keep track of my ideas here. And yes, I know that John's birthday is over 3 months away, but what can I say, I'm a planner :)

Here's what I'm planning to get for the party:

These balloons:
http://www.birthdaydirect.com/mickey-mouse-clubhouse-18-in-foil-balloon-p-10417.html
http://www.birthdaydirect.com/images/mickeys-clubhouse-18in-mylar.png

Along with these for the balloon bouquets (well, these colors. I may get solid instead of printed):
http://www.birthdaydirect.com/mickey-mouse-happy-birthday-12-in-printed-latex-balloons-p-4211.html
http://www.birthdaydirect.com/product_thumb.php?img=images/mickey-friends-latex-balloon3.png&w=225&h=225

And get this birthday banner printed:
http://www.birthdayexpress.com/Mickey-Mouse-1st-Personalized-Birthday-Banner/43896/PersonalizedDetail.aspx
http://images.celebrateexpress.com/mgen/merchandiser/43896.jpg?is=365,365,0xffffff

These plates:
http://www.partycity.com/images/thumb/products-new/166117.jpg

[Dallas_Lady]

I went to the Disney Store for one thing and ended up finding some good stuff for the party.

These plates were 40% off. I got 4. I can use them as serving plates for the party, and then regular plates for the kids to use afterwards. That's me being green ;)
http://as7.dsi.go.com/is/image/DisneyShopping/93425-1?$full$

I got a couple of these for my kids to use now, but they are also 40% off. So I'm thinking of getting more and using them as favors.
http://as7.disneystore.com/is/image/DisneyShopping/300837?$full$

[S'sMom]

I love those plates and the cute cup, which one did you find them at?



I went to the Disney Store for one thing and ended up finding some good stuff for the party.

These plates were 40% off. I got 4. I can use them as serving plates for the party, and then regular plates for the kids to use afterwards. That's me being green ;)
http://as7.dsi.go.com/is/image/DisneyShopping/93425-1?$full$

I got a couple of these for my kids to use now, but they are also 40% off. So I'm thinking of getting more and using them as favors.
http://as7.disneystore.com/is/image/DisneyShopping/300837?$full$

[Dallas_Lady]

I got some at Stonebriar (Frisco) and then I went back and got more at Collin Creek (Plano). 40% off for everything in the "Summertime Fun" series, and they have dishes, cups, serving bowls, pitchers, and more. Some of it's online, but there's more to choose from in the stores.

I've got Mickey & Minnie sets, I'm thinking of going back and getting Nemo.

http://as7.dsi.go.com/is/image/DisneyShopping/93425?$full$

[Dallas_Lady]

I've got an interview tomorrow! It's not in my target district, but it's my second choice and the school is only 20 minutes from home. I'm excited and nervous. Wish me luck!

[Dallas_Lady]

Well, I didn't get the job :( I am not to disapointed, there were a few things about the position that I didn't like. But it would have been nice to turn them down instead of being turned down, LOL. Oh well. I'm still keeing the faith that something will come along.

[Dallas_Lady]

Last week we hit the road in the minivan and drove 832 miles to visit my family in Georgia. I kept a detailed log of how long it took to get there as well as some suggestions for our big road trip in November to WDW. This trip was kind of a "test run" for driving to Orlando.

Day 1- Plano, TX to Birmingham, AL
It was our goal to try to drive all the way to Georgia, but the weather was bad the whole way. It rained all day, which meant the kids didn't get out to play at the rest stops like we'd planned. It also made the driving hard on DH. By the time we got to Bham, we were all tired and decided to call it a night.

6:30am CST- On the road leaving Plano
9:00- Louisiana border
9:10-9:50- Rest & Gas stop
12:15-12:35pm- Mississippi border, rest and food stop
3:10- Alabama border
5:15- Checked into Birmingham Hotel (~650 miles in 11 hours)

Day 2- Birmingham to Peachtree City, GA
8:30am CST- On the road leaving Bham
9:50 CST/10:50 EST- Georgia border
12:30pm- Arrive at Peachtree City, GA (832 miles total)

Day 5- The drive home

We were able to make it all the way home in one shot because the weather on our departure day was MUCH better. In fact, it rained pretty much the whole time we were in Atlanta, only to stop on the day we were leaving. Go figure.

7:44 am EST- Depart, breakfast and gas stops
9:15 EST/8:15 CST- Alabama border
11:00- Mississippi border
11:15- 12:10pm- Gas and lunch stop
2:03- Louisiana border
4:30-5:20- Texas border and rest stop
8:00pm- Arrive in Plano, TX (13.25 hours, 832 miles)

[Dallas_Lady]

Final Thoughts

We really don't like arriving at a destination at night. Arriving at home at night is one thing- it's home, it's familiar, all you have to do is plop down your bags and get in your bed. But to arrive at your destination late, especially when visiting family, is not ideal. You have to unpack the vehicle, get set up, you will of course want to talk and visit for a bit before going to sleep. So a 9pm arrival means you won't get to bed before midnight. And when you have been in the car all day with two little ones who are cranky and tired, this is not ideal. This is why we decided to stop in Bham at 5pm instead of driving all the way to Atlanta. We could have gotten there around 8pm (9pm with the time change) but it was best for us to spend the night and arrive bright eyed and bushy tailed the next day.

Crossing time zones is a big deal. It can make your drive an hour longer or shorter. For us, it means the drive there is longer than the the drive home.

Having the kids watch DVDs in the van is what made this trip work. We looked at buying a dual screen DVD player, but a decent one would have been $200-300 and I just wasn't pleased with them. One day, I thought to myself that if I could only power it (because my battery would never last 14 hours) my laptop would be the perfect way for the kids to watch their movies. So, after a search on Amazon.com, I found this:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000157TNA/ref=ox_ya_oh_product
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41E1END12KL._SL500_AA280_.jpg

For $25 we were able to power the laptop using one of the van's power outlets (it even has one in the second row; I love my minivan) and the kid's could happily watch Mickey Mouse, Dora & Diego, and the Backyardigans to their heart's content. Our van has captain's chairs in the second row (where the kids sit). I set the laptop on top of a cooler so that they could both see it. I should have taken a picture of the set-up, it worked really well.

Planning when and where we want to stop for breaks, gas, etc. is something I want to do in November. On our first day we didn't have a good plan and we had a lot of "so when do you want to stop?" debates. We had a better idea of when to stop on the way home and it made things a lot smoother.

We always, always, always bring too many snacks for our road trip. We pack a ton of food with the idea that we are going to eat sandwiches and save money instead of eating fast food. Yet we always, always, always find a reason to hit a drive thru instead of eating all the food I packed. So, in November I am going to try to convince DH that we do not need two coolers plus a big grocery bag full of food. He probably won't go for it, but I think I'll just not pack it and see if he notices ;)

[Dallas_Lady]

Oh, I almost forgot! I made my own Passporter that can be used for whatever trip we are taking. I used it on this trip to Atlanta, and it was a great way to keep track of reservation, maps, phone numbers, etc. It also gave me a place to make notes of what we did each day and tips for next time.

Here is what I was trying to emulate- my favorite planning guide, The Passporter:

http://tonyandgiovanna.com/2009/5-13-09a.jpg

http://tonyandgiovanna.com/2009/5-13-09b.jpg

Here are my supplies.

http://tonyandgiovanna.com/2009/5-13-09c.jpg

And here is the finished product.

http://tonyandgiovanna.com/2009/5-13-09d.jpg

http://tonyandgiovanna.com/2009/5-13-09e.jpg

http://tonyandgiovanna.com/2009/5-13-09f.jpg

[reyasmommy]

Final Thoughts

We really don't like arriving at a destination at night. Arriving at home at night is one thing- it's home, it's familiar, all you have to do is plop down your bags and get in your bed. But to arrive at your destination late, especially when visiting family, is not ideal. You have to unpack the vehicle, get set up, you will of course want to talk and visit for a bit before going to sleep. So a 9pm arrival means you won't get to bed before midnight. And when you have been in the car all day with two little ones who are cranky and tired, this is not ideal. This is why we decided to stop in Bham at 5pm instead of driving all the way to Atlanta. We could have gotten there around 8pm (9pm with the time change) but it was best for us to spend the night and arrive bright eyed and bushy tailed the next day.

Crossing time zones is a big deal. It can make your drive an hour longer or shorter. For us, it means the drive there is longer than the the drive home.

Having the kids watch DVDs in the van is what made this trip work. We looked at buying a dual screen DVD player, but a decent one would have been $200-300 and I just wasn't pleased with them. One day, I thought to myself that if I could only power it (because my battery would never last 14 hours) my laptop would be the perfect way for the kids to watch their movies. So, after a search on Amazon.com, I found this:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000157TNA/ref=ox_ya_oh_product
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41E1END12KL._SL500_AA280_.jpg

For $25 we were able to power the laptop using one of the van's power outlets (it even has one in the second row; I love my minivan) and the kid's could happily watch Mickey Mouse, Dora & Diego, and the Backyardigans to their heart's content. Our van has captain's chairs in the second row (where the kids sit). I set the laptop on top of a cooler so that they could both see it. I should have taken a picture of the set-up, it worked really well.

Planning when and where we want to stop for breaks, gas, etc. is something I want to do in November. On our first day we didn't have a good plan and we had a lot of "so when do you want to stop?" debates. We had a better idea of when to stop on the way home and it made things a lot smoother.

We always, always, always bring too many snacks for our road trip. We pack a ton of food with the idea that we are going to eat sandwiches and save money instead of eating fast food. Yet we always, always, always find a reason to hit a drive thru instead of eating all the food I packed. So, in November I am going to try to convince DH that we do not need two coolers plus a big grocery bag full of food. He probably won't go for it, but I think I'll just not pack it and see if he notices ;)

I know I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my mini van too. I swore I would never ever drive one. Common what's cool about a mini van?!? But it's the best! We've been on several road trips with it and I couldn't be happier. It's great when you have small children, especially because ours has a dvd player built it.

You sound just like me when it comes to packing food, yet still finding yourself in a drive-thru. :confused3

Oh, I almost forgot! I made my own Passporter that can be used for whatever trip we are taking. I used it on this trip to Atlanta, and it was a great way to keep track of reservation, maps, phone numbers, etc. It also gave me a place to make notes of what we did each day and tips for next time.

Here is what I was trying to emulate- my favorite planning guide, The Passporter:

http://tonyandgiovanna.com/may-jun09/5-13-09a.jpg

http://tonyandgiovanna.com/may-jun09/5-13-09b.jpg

Here are my supplies.

http://tonyandgiovanna.com/may-jun09/5-13-09c.jpg

And here is the finished product.

http://tonyandgiovanna.com/may-jun09/5-13-09d.jpg

http://tonyandgiovanna.com/may-jun09/5-13-09e.jpg

http://tonyandgiovanna.com/may-jun09/5-13-09f.jpg

LOVE your passporter!:thumbsup2

Hope you have a magical trip!

[Tinkmom75]

We are driving from Michigan, so it is about a 21 hr drive. I always pack too much food too. In fact I always overpack. DH is already limiting on how much we can pack. He thinks backpacks cause they will fit under the seats :confused3. I told him, I would set the stuff out and he can pack it:rolleyes1 We will have 5 in our vehicle.

Are you going to be in a condo or townhome at Windsor. We will be in a townhome and my Dsis will be in a condo. It looks really nice there.

Edited to add: Whoops I see you will be in a condo.

[Dallas_Lady]

Hi Tinkmom!

For us, DH is the overpacker. He wants to get one of those luggage storage containers for the top of the minivan and fill that will stuff too, in addition to everything that will be in the cargo area.

[Tinkmom75]

I really want one of those things for the top of our car too. At least we will have a washer and dryer, but who wants to do laundry on vacation:eek:

Now I'm a little worried cause I went to a small roller coaster park with my son for 5th grade graduation and I actually got sick to my stomach on a coaster:confused3 I really like the disney coasters. I may have to take motion sickness meds.

[Dallas_Lady]

I had an interview yesterday. It went so well that the Principal called me right away and offered me the job :teacher: I'm super excited, it's in a great area and is only an 18 minute drive from my house. :dance3:

Disneyworld, here we come!!

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

[S'sMom]

Yea!! I know that u r excited not just for the job but now you can take ur trip! Congrats!!
We just returned from our summer trip to the world and will return for Christmas as long ss things remain as thy r :). We r thinking about investing in thr DVC resale. We will see :o)
I love ur passporter I think that I may do one similar too cute
I will b doing my tr soon :o)



I had an interview yesterday. It went so well that the Principal called me right away and offered me the job :teacher: I'm super excited, it's in a great area and is only an 18 minute drive from my house. :dance3:

Disneyworld, here we come!!

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

[cinderella73]

Im on board! I will be going back to WH right before you head there so if you want me to take pics of anything specific for you lmk. I saw this is your first time at WH. It will be our 3rd time. I am a total snob about hotels and I can tell you it exceeded my expectations. I think you guys will love it.

I drive down myself from PA and I think its a good idea you are using a laptop for movies! It really keeps the kids from going stir crazy.

I love the plates you bought . I just got the matching cooler , pitcher ( has cute Mickey icecubes), and tray.

I am still on my trip report from last Sept and I should be starting my pre-trip report already. We are going in Sept/Oct . At least you guys should be out the hurricane woods going in November . I think its just ending then. And it will be nice and cool by then to. Much easier on the kids. Oh and congrats on the job!

Cant wait to read more. :)

[Tinkmom75]

Congrats on your job!

I'm just waiting to do the double digit dance:cool1: Our tickets are bought. My Dsis is planning days for us cool. I am just hoping that our portable dvd players, gameboys and i-pods will keep everyone busy on the long drive. Can't believe we made it when I was a kid with coloring books and crayons. My how things have changed.

[cascarlet]

I see you're going to WDW the same time we are! November 21-28th!! It looks like we have a lot in common. My dh is a principal and he looks similar to your dh! (you're both are in education) Your kids are adorable (so are mine..haha)..and it looks like you like to scrapbook!!

We will be staying at CSR. I would love to see your itinerary. I'm going to start a pre trip report as well so you can see mine.

ETA: We are bringing my mom too, never thought she would ever go to WDW, so it will be interesting!~

[Dallas_Lady]

I know I have been rather MIA, but I'm still here and we are still going. It has been busy busy few months. I started my new job and I have been trying to figure out how to manage life as a working mom. Plus, my job blocks disboards.com, so I hardly ever have time to get on! How dare they!

We are less than 2 months away, and I have all my major planning done. Now I just need to make some to-do lists for our final details and we will be all set!

[S'sMom]

I know I have been rather MIA, but I'm still here and we are still going. It has been busy busy few months. I started my new job and I have been trying to figure out how to manage life as a working mom. Plus, my job blogs disboards.com, so I hardly ever have time to get on! How dare they!

We are less than 2 months away, and I have all my major planning done. Now I just need to make some to-do lists for our final details and we will be all set!


Wow you dont have long before you guys head back :thumbsup2. Not sure if we will go during the Thanksgiving holiday (because dh has gotten laid off :sad2:). But thankfully he has severance until after thanksgiving, so we will see. We did however, put the deposit down on the cruise at Spring Break (kids sail free offer). But we will see how it goes, and if we need to cancel. A sort of leap of faith :littleangel: If things work out we will see :confused3

I know what you mean being busy. I work FT for the district and I teach online so needless to say my evenings are full, an hubby has to take up he slack with the kids, but I do have my weekends free so that is when I put in the needed time with my children that are missing during the week. Keep us posted on your planning, that way if I do not get to go during the holidays, at least I can read about it. LOL

Have fun!

[Dallas_Lady]

47 days :eek: I have so much stuff to do!!!

[Dallas_Lady]

Things we need to do...

The month before:
-Pay balance on condo DONE
-Order Disney reward dollars DONE
-Purchase tickets at Disney store
-Get ID tags for the kids DONE
-Print paperwork, confirmations & maps
-Purchase any necessary clothing
-Purchase any necessary toiletries
-Arrange pet sitter or kennel DONE
-Order coffee cups
-Order birth certificate for John DONE

The week before:
-Have minivan serviced
-Stop mail delivery
-Order netflix Disney movies for the drive
-Order audio books for the drive
-Begin packing clothes
-Assemble kids toy/activity bag

Departure Day:
-Wash and gas minivan
-Pack toiletries
-Finish packing clothes
-Prep house for departure (water heater, furnace, light timers, locks)
-Pack drink cooler & snacks for the drive

[Dallas_Lady]

Friday 11.20
Leave Dallas @ 7pm
Drive through the night

Saturday 11.21
Arrive at Windsor Hills around 4pm
Unpack, get settled, get groceries for the week
Order pizza for dinner

Sunday 11.22
Rope Drop Magic Kingdom
Lunch @ Crystal Palace
Midday break
Return to MK for the evening
CS Dinner
Leave before Spectro/Wishes

Monday 11.23
(leave the kids at the condo with Grandma)
Rope drop Epcot
Ride Mission Spacem Soarin' & Test Track
Lunch @ Coral Reef
Return to condo, get Grandma and the kids, head back to Epcot
CS Dinner @ World Showcase
Stay for Illuminations

Tuesday 11.24
Sleep in, Hollywood Studios
Lunch @ 50s Prime Time
Afternoon/evening at HS
See Osborne Lights
CS Dinner

Wednesday 11.25
Rope drop Magic Kingdom
CS Lunch
Midday break
Return to MK
Dinner @ The Plaza
Stay for Spectro/Wishes

Thursday 11.26
Sleep in, Animal Kingdom morning & early afternoon
Thanksgiving dinner @ Trails End
Monorail/boat resort hopping to see Christmas decorations

Friday 11.27
Rope drop Animal Kingdom
Breakfast @ Tusker House
AK Christmas parade
Return to condo to pack

Saturday 11.28
Check out of condo
Downtown Disney (World of Disney)
Depart Orlando around 1pm
Spend the night in Mobile, AL

Sunday 11.29
Drive from Mobile to Dallas

[S'sMom]

:guilty: I wish I was going with you :thumbsup2 .

Because hubby has lost his job we are unable to go, but we will see about Spring Break! :thumbsup2

I cant wait to see your TR. :yay:

[Tinkmom75]

Hmm.. Well we are staying at the same resort, but our park itineraries are totally different. My Dsis made ours. I can't wait till our trip:banana:

How's the job going?

[tink519]

I will be at MK on the 22nd as well! Can't wait :banana:

[Dallas_Lady]

:guilty: I wish I was going with you :thumbsup2 .

Because hubby has lost his job we are unable to go, but we will see about Spring Break! :thumbsup2

I cant wait to see your TR. :yay:

I'm sorry to hear about your DH. What does he do?

Hmm.. Well we are staying at the same resort, but our park itineraries are totally different. My Dsis made ours. I can't wait till our trip:banana:

How's the job going?

You'll be at Windsor Hills? Are you staying in a condo, townhouse or villa? I am both excited and nervous about being an off-siter on this trip. I became quite the on-site snob, but I just couldn't beat the price for the amount of space you get offsite. And since we are driving to Florida, we decided to give offsite a try.

I will be at MK on the 22nd as well! Can't wait :banana:

We have a ADR for lunch at Crystal Palace that day. I am really excited. We have never been able to drag ourselves out of bed for a rope drop, but I want to on that day. I'll have my lime green on :thumbsup2

[Dallas_Lady]

Knee surgery??? Are you serious???

DH's knee has been bothering him for a few weeks. It's been getting worse instead of better, so I told him to go to the doctor. He went yesterday, they did and MRI and gave him a diagnosis today. He has a torn meniscus and has to have SURGERY to correct it. Surgery. 30 days before our trip. Ugh.

The doctor said it's an easy, routine surgery. DH should be walking normally once the surgical swelling goes down and he shouldn't have any problems doing Disneyworld. But, I am still worried. I really don't want him to have to have surgery at all, no matter how minor it may be. Tony is telling me not to worry, but worrying is what I do.

[aharbin88]

Hey there! I saw you on the MVMCP thread, and I wanted to check out your pre-trippie. We are thinking of going the week after Thanksgiving next year, so I want to soak in as much planning as possible!:goodvibes

I love your homemade Passporter! I may have to try that myself!:thumbsup2

I also love the link you posted to the disposable coffee cups. My MIL and I could make good use of those! :surfweb:

Congratulations on the job! I hope it's going well. :teacher:

I hope your DH's surgery goes smoothly! I'm like you. I would be freaking out to know that my DH (or any other member of our group) was having surgery 30 days before we leave for WDW. :scared1: I'm sure the docs know what they're dealing with, so I'm sure it will all be fine. It will certainly be better than walking around on a painful knee!

Have a great trip! I can't wait to hear how it goes!!

[Tinkmom75]

We will be in the town houses. My Dsis and My dad and step mom have rented town houses too!

I hope the knee surgery goes smoothly.:hug:

[Dallas_Lady]

DHS Touring Plan

In the van @ 9:30am
-(Fast pass runner heads to TSMM)
-Playhouse Disney
-50s PT @ 11:05
-(Fast pass runner heads to RnR/ToT)
-Muppetvision
-Shrunk the Kids
-Backlot
-TSMM
-Movie Ride
-Little Mermaid
-RnR/ToT
-Pizza Planet dinner
-Osborne lights
-Back to condo @ 8:00pm

[S'sMom]

I'm sorry to hear about your DH. What does he do?

He is an Architect. Still looking. Hopefully something will come through soon :thumbsup2

Knee surgery??? Are you serious???

DH's knee has been bothering him for a few weeks. It's been getting worse instead of better, so I told him to go to the doctor. He went yesterday, they did and MRI and gave him a diagnosis today. He has a torn meniscus and has to have SURGERY to correct it. Surgery. 30 days before our trip. Ugh.

The doctor said it's an easy, routine surgery. DH should be walking normally once the surgical swelling goes down and he shouldn't have any problems doing Disneyworld. But, I am still worried. I really don't want him to have to have surgery at all, no matter how minor it may be. Tony is telling me not to worry, but worrying is what I do.

I can understand how you are feeling. Anthony has Multiple Sclerosis so I can understand not wanting anything to get in the way of his mobility. I will be praying for his quick recovery and I think that a Disney trip will fix all of the problems. :) Keep us posted on how hes doing.

Day one of your plans look good :)

[Dallas_Lady]

Tony's knee has been doing pretty well. He is a week out from surgery and is walking on it without a crutch. He is doing physicaly therapy twice a week, and his doctor said again that he should be fine. So, I am starting to feel a little better.

[Dallas_Lady]

No trick or treating for us tonight :( Alexandra isn't feeling well, so we are just hanging out at home. They got to go to a Halloween party last weekend, so at least she got to wear her costume. I think I will take their costomes (Mickey and Minne Mouse) with us on our trip and have them wear them there to make up for tonight.

[mom2mek]

Hi Giovanna! I just came across your trip report and wanted to pop in and say hello! Your plans look great and I think you will be very pleased with Windsor Hills - I have stayed there twice now (Oct 2008 in a 3 bedroom townhouse and Dec 2008 on a girls trip - also in a 3 bedroom townhouse)! The resort is beautiful, the space is so nice (especially with extended family) and it is so close! Do you know the short cut to AK via Sherbeth Rd? If not, let me know I will send you the info!

Your trip is very close! Woo-hoo! Thanksgiving is so fun - busy, but very fun! You are going to have a blast! I hope you plan on doing a report on it when you get back! :woohoo::woohoo:

Sara

[Dallas_Lady]

Oh my goodness, Sara (mom2mek) is replying to my pre-trippie! Your mega "herding cats" trip report is the inspiration behind this trip. After reading it I decided to take the plunge and stay offsite. We are also having Thanksgiving dinner at Trails End based on your favorable review :)

[Tinkmom75]

Where is trailsend? Tell me more. We are thinking of ordering form boston market or one of the grocery stores for Thanksgiving. We are having Thanksgiving on Sunday with the family that is not going on the trip with us. Complete with Turkey and Pumpkin Pie. We have 13 days until we leave. I can't believe it.:banana::banana::banana:

[Dallas_Lady]

Things we need to do...

The month before:
-Pay balance on condo DONE
-Order Disney reward dollars DONE
-Purchase tickets at Disney store DONE
-Get ID tags for the kids DONE
-Print paperwork, confirmations & maps DONE
-Purchase any necessary clothing DONE
-Purchase any necessary toiletries DONE
-Arrange pet sitter or kennel DONE
-Order birth certificate for John DONE

The week before:
-Have minivan serviced DONE
-Stop mail delivery DONE
-Order netflix Disney movies for the drive DONE
-Order audio books for the drive DONE
-Begin packing clothes DONE
-Assemble kids toy/activity bag DONE

Departure Day:
-Wash and gas minivan
-Pack toiletries
-Finish packing clothes
-Prep house for departure (water heater, furnace, light timers, locks)
-Pack drink cooler & snacks for the drive

[Dallas_Lady]

The last few weeks have been CRAZY. But, we are still going!

Alexandra ended up getting Swine Flu :eek: and just as she started getting better, John and I got it as well. DH got the vaccine and hasn't gotten sick thank goodness. So it was a rough 10 days around here. But, we are all feeling fine and ready to go! 3 days and I feel eerily calm and not at all frazzled- which probably means I am forgetting something big, LOL.

[MerissaAndMomLoveDis]

Hey Dallas Lady! Desoto lady here (ha). Helloooooo from south Dallas! We will be at MK too on Sunday the 22nd. Have a great trip!

[Dallas_Lady]

Hi MerissaAndMomLoveDis! Thanks for visiting :)

Well, we leave tomorrow and we are knee deep in packing. The house is a mess and now I am remembering all those things that need to be done that I'd forgotten about a few days ago.