Counting down the days...Making 40th B-day MAGIC! 9/19/09 Western.

[cakesnjammom]

Ok I am finally ready to start a pre-trip report.
ME - 37
DH - 39
ds - 7
dd - 5
DH and I started talking about how he would like to celebrate his 40th b-day???..he mentioned a few "guy" type places he would like to go and I mentioned "what about a cruise?". He said "oh yeah I like that idea" so I started looking into cruises for us ALONE. We have cruised once (RCCL- our honeymoon) and it was so great, we came off the boat wanting to plan to go again and then 11+ years later here we are PLUS 2 kiddos now that we wanted to leave at home so we could get in some Mom and Dad time. My mom had volunteered to watch the kids and we were sure dh's mom would help out too, maybe a rotation of sorts! The "grandma's" live in the same town but not where we live SO...we also have 2 dogs (beagles),Daisy and Lily, that would need care while we are away so it was all adding up to be a BIG undertaking trying to plan how we would get away and not have to "worry" about kids and grandmothers and dogs and how we would get everyone settled and on the road and be in "NO communication mode" for 4-7 days. It was not working out....my brain was discombobulated to say the least. I had been looking at Carnival cruises and then decided we MAY be to OLD for the Carnival party boats....topless decks??? WHAT? No, way too old! So I started looking into RCCL and I was really impressed with their "Freedom Class" ships...I thought it had enough sporty things to keep dh entertained and all the stuff I like too (shows and food)! So things were really heading that way but the thought of not being able to speak to our kids and kowing we would be wondering how things were with them while trying to relax and enjoy our time just did not seem to mix. So I started thinking Disney...we are Disney fans...we have been blessed to go to WDW several times over the last few years and all our trips have left us with such great memories, magical memories! With only one downfall...NO alone time for mom and dad, not to mention the run, run, run schedule....now a light bulb goes off....DCL....so I watch the cruise video online...I get so excited but did not know how dh would feel...so I call him and tell him when he gets back home I want him to watch something online...OK! When he comes in I explain to him what I had been thinking and that DCL has KIDS CLUBS so we could really do a lil' alone time too...I said I thought it was a win-win situation. So I left the video up for him to watch when he had time! AND....I was hoping the pixie dust would get him!

[cakesnjammom]

Cont....
I have NEVER had a problem convincing dh to take a Disney vacation....once he started the video it was not long before he was saying "I am SOLD, when do we leave?" But the guilt hits us and we realize we cannot do a DISNEY cruise without our kids! The Oceaneer Club would provide us some adult time so kid problem WAS solved....they will go too. So NOW I needed to figure out the cost and what we could afford now that we were adding the kids to the sailing! SO the next morning I contacted Marisa - TA with Cruising Co/MouseEar Vacations and got some quotes for a 4-night Bahama's cruise. We decided that since Sept. had lower fares we would cruise then and take our chances during hurricane season. We paid the deposit and were all ready to start my favorite part.....planning: knowing what all is offered...you know the phase - that is why you are here, right! I kept reading the boards, asking tons of questions, bombarding Marisa with questions....starting the planning to get our passports....talking to friends who had done DCL and getting more excited by the day! THEN that "always want the biggest and best BUG bit me", you know the one, the BUG that says is 4 days enough on the ship...what are you missing out on by going on the 4-night vs. the 7-night? And I start reading 4 & 7-night trip reports, recalling my past cruise and how quickly the week FLEW by and soon enough I was nagging at dh (which lets face it, dh was thinking the same thing b/c some of our dear friends told us that the 4-night was just enough time to make them MAD when they had to get off the boat and that they were grumpy when they got home because they hated to leave the ship ). I just kept thinking as soon as we get on that boat we are gonna want to book that 7-night and then I started calculating (I never present a trip to dh unless I have a way for us to pay for it in mind). So add the 4-night to the 7-night cost and WHOA who knows when we will be able to go: kids in school: yada, yada, yada or should we just figure in the $1200 additional it would cost to upgrade to the 7-nighter now instead (yes - we lost our split bath and secret port hole) but we did it and booked a CAT 11! Our TA was able to offer us a group rate on the 7-night Western and since deposits had dropped we only had to pay $100 more in deposits - hey it was a NO BRAINER for me. So we decided we would do very few excursions and enjoy the boat...we have been to Key West so we knew what we wanted to do there and we knew we could get around on our own....the other places I am looking into excursions for us and we are so excited about Castaway Cay...that place will be a whole excursion on its own - very little if any additional costs. I was also happy to find CHEAPER trip insurance that covers our needs thru Access America...thanks Belle for that tip.

My dh needed to go ahead and get his passport for work so we started working on our passport forms and we headed to AAA for our passport photos (free to premium members). While we were at AAA I also checked into the trip insurance they offer and was pleased to realize they go thru Access America too...I also,for kicks, got a quote on our cruise at AAA and I had gotten a WAY better deal using Marisa....AAA wanted almost TWICE as much!

I started looking into hotels near the port...I knew I had to use Marriott because dh has reward points with them and that would make our stay FREE ! So after reading up I decided on Residence Inn near the port and they have FREE parking for the length of the cruise and FREE breakfast the morning we sail out. DH will just have to drop us at the port and take the car back and either get a taxi or shuttle to the port....that saves us $105 in parking....hmmmm still trying to decide on whether to park free or park at the port...so if you have tips please pass them along...a lil' worried about my car's safety at the hotel 7 days?

A friend has offered for dd to borrow TONS of princess gowns and crowns to take on our trip and my MIL can sew so I headed out last weekend to get fabric for somethings for MIL to sew and for a Fish Extender - FE (the thing that hangs on the fish outside your cabin and you sign up to give and receive gifts/surprises there...) so dh and I made the FE last weekend and I am still working at the finishing touches! Will post pic when I get it all fancy ! Other than that now I am just scouring the boards and waiting on my Passporter DCL 2009 (gotta love Jennifer and Dave and staff, passporter books and e-books ROCK)!

So if you have any advice for me...please post! Still pondering the tux issue for ds and dh on Formal Night...ds would love to "sport" a tux like Dad and I even cut out a pattern to make "Mickey" fabric bow ties for them...have not found the perfect fabric yet! Oh and forgot to mention...dh has made all the magnets for our door....he is the graphic designer here!

[cakesnjammom]

Thinking of adding the MNSSHP for Friday night and arriving earlier than planned on the 18th...but prices and dates are not being confirmed/released by Disney yet! Just wondering if we will be too tuckered out after the party to be up and out early the next morning having to get up, drive and head to the ship? My kids are night owls, especially when excited. Thoughts?

If I add the party it will mean NO free parking at the Cocoa Beach hotel because I will change to a hotel near WDW so there goes the $105 savings...but since I have NOT completely made up my mind to leave my car....hmmmm... and I am just thinking the Halloween party is a great way to see MK too for a 'lil bit and add to the MAGIC of the cruise! Thoughts and opinions...please! Kids could just wear pirate stuff/princess stuff that we are taking for the cruise anyway...THAT IS A PLUS! I wish I knew the ticket prices that would help but I am thinking $200 for 2 adult/2 child tickets? :surfweb:

[cakesnjammom]

WOW! Been looking into excursions and I think I mentioned we are not doing many, if any, because of the cost. I think I can get away with staying on the boat in either Cozumel or Grand Caymen. So which one is the better spot for us to venture out on our own? Any suggestions? popcorn::



My kiddos would really love to swim with the dolphins (I think...you know until they see that massive creature swimming towards them) and I found a place that they can participate for $8/each with a paying adult (dh and I would have to pay $86 each and then $16 dollars for them) so for $188 we could swim with dolphins in Cozumel (plus tax and transfers)...should we do this or the Halloween Party??? Anyone done both that can tell me their opinion? I just think the kids will get more out of the HP but I have been wrong before :rolleyes1 and will be wrong many more times I am sure :goodvibes.



Well chime in please! Let me know your thoughts? Man I just get more excited by the day!
:yay:

[disney minnie]

I found quite a few places on ebay where you can purchase a tux for your son for around $30. This price beats the rental price any day and then you can sell it on ebay after the trip if it won't be used again. or keep it for the memory of his first tux.:goodvibes

[cakesnjammom]

YAY! I have looked into them too...my MIL can sew so I was going to get an eight and let her hem the pants so maybe he could wear it again!!!! Thanks for reading!!:thumbsup2

[disney minnie]

Ok you're going to get me into trouble. I was planning on our family going to Downtown Disney on the 4th and going to Disney Quest, eat a little dinner, and then head to Cape Canaveral for the night. Now I I'm thinking it might be fun to do the Halloween party and then spend the night at Disney. Right now we have free parking at our hotel and we already have tickes to Disney Quest, but we are surprising our children with this trip and that would definately throw them off; especially the 9 year old.

[cakesnjammom]

Ok you're going to get me into trouble. I was planning on our family going to Downtown Disney on the 4th and going to Disney Quest, eat a little dinner, and then head to Cape Canaveral for the night. Now I I'm thinking it might be fun to do the Halloween party and then spend the night at Disney. Right now we have free parking at our hotel and we already have tickes to Disney Quest, but we are surprising our children with this trip and that would definately throw them off; especially the 9 year old.

I know what you mean...it really snowballs! we decided to ask our kids IF they had a choice what would they rather do...the HP, dolphins or stingrays? Both said HP...dd said HP with any hesitation but ds, well it takes him a bit to make up his mind...he weighs all the options (to make sure he isn't missing anything) and usually trys to negotiate his way into MORE than is offered...wonder where he got that?:rolleyes1
SO if we really plan for the HP we will lose any option of FREE parking...since we are Marriott Reward Members I will ASK if we can park and ride but I am sure the answer will be NO...we will have to stay at The Marriott World Center next to WDW after the HP???? NO now dh says we will just drive to Cocoa Beach afterwards!! YAY
How bad is the drive from WDW to PC? Do you think we will feel like doing it after the HP?

[cakesnjammom]

OHHHH DH says he will want to drive to PC hotel!!! YAY free parking is BACK on!

[kileybeth]

YEAH! a pretrippie! Hiya cakesnjammom! We are cruising together and it is fun to see a pretrippie starting!

I love your family pics! You all look so stinkin happy! You and your MIL and DH too all sound so creative. I can't wait to see all of your planning and pics. Post a FE pic!

I sooooo want to do the MNSSHP, but with 6 of us it is not cheap and we would definitely drive to the Port that night as well to secure our free cruise parking and free breakfast before baording the next morning! Lots is resting on my childrens resales this spring to see what extra monies I can come up with. We are also night owls though so not worried about Friday night so much as Saturday morning and how Port day and and first day at sea will go with such a late night leading into it kwim? I am fairly certain the drive to the Port is only a little over an hour away and late at night, traffic should be lighter.

DH works for a bank, probably enough said, but it has not been a fun year financially speaking but I am so takin' this cruise! I am on a mission! The extras? All flexible I guess for now.

My DH has been to Grand Cayman (on buisness) a number of times and is looking forward to showing us what he has come home raving about (mostly snorkling, he is so not a shopper! ha! ) So with that said, I am still fluctuating between renting our family a car for the day (he's rented/driven in Caymen before (left side of the road and normally right hand drivers seat in car but not always) and lettting him show us around (it's small not to far to go really but would be nice to drive to a beach instead of taxi-ing or walking and hauling everything) OR just shopping with my youngest DD4 (definitely walkable) in her maclaren stroller and letting DH take the other three on a Captain Marvins snorkling, stingray adventure, the 3hour tour. . .) Cost for both of those options is under $200 for our family of 6 not including the shopping I may or may not do?!

In Cozumel (a first for my family in Mexico at all) as of now we will rent a car (actually already reserved through Hertz or Avis, can't remember off hand) and do the driving tour. From what I understand, it is mostly a big loop and pretty easy to get around. The car rental thing gives us great flexibility for a large family. Stop at a beach or not, stop at a market or two, or not, stop to taste some authentic cuisine or not, kwim? and the infamous shopping my DH is hoping to curtail in every port! Ha!

I have come across a few really helpful websites just googling for both Caymen and Cozumel. I'll try to post them if you are interested or at least tell you what they are called/or what to google ( I am sooo techno challenged!)

and a shoutout to DisneyMinnie! Are you taking care of the 9/5/2009 cruise meet thread? I still miss all you guys over there. And yes, still lurking from time to time!

About formal wear? I can not imagine being able to talk my DH into a tux for it and my DS17? um, not happening. The DS6 would eat it up (he was a wedding ring bearer this past summer and he so loved every minute in that monkey suit!) So I am thinking we are going with dark suit for DH and will be happy mom to get DS17 into decent khakis and a dress oxford. Let not talk about the three of us girls I have to dress yet. I am starting to twitch already.

So did not mean to ramble forever. Hope you are not offended or think I was trying to take over the thread! oiy! Looking forward to reading along though!

[cakesnjammom]

"kileybeth" I am SO glad to read your post and that you responded:yay: ...offended NO WAY :sad2:! I am so glad someone is reading!

6 of you..that's awesome and your plans sound great....ok please give me the rental car info., we might look into it!! Since my kids are opting for the HP I am not so sure we will do much that is not included:thumbsup2. But we could afford to rent a car or something I am sure...my kids are so looking forward to the club events/kids happenings too! I was reading the NAVS that Jan (on our cruise meet threads - thanks Jan) sent me from the January Western Cruise! Too cool! Too much stuff to keep us busy and I really do not mind swimming while everyone else is off in port - more room in the Goofy pool :dance3: ! Gotta have key lime pie in Key West though...I cannot miss it! And dh really wants cuban cigars to smoke late night on the ship (in approved areas of course)...he will probably get some in different ports...read a TR about cigars in Grand Caymen upstairs from the Rum Cake place...$25 for 3 cigars...oh no there went the car rental :rolleyes1 :jumping1: !!

I am so addicted to the boards!:worship: It makes me so excited to read the posts and see the pics! And gives me great ideas:idea:! Keep me posted on your plans and start your pre-trip report too:cheer2: !

[tonysmom6093]

I have been thinking of eating in room the formal night, don't know what to pack for myself or my ds who will be 10 for the trip. Can't really afford a tux for him and he has a crazy pant size. not quite 10 but 8 too short. Do people do this(eat in room) or is that just a crazy thought. I am sewing all our pirate outfits myself, sister and ds. Will probably sew FE too, but have to find the right fabric. :hippie:
.

[CurlyBlueEyes]

DON'T EAT IN YOUR ROOM!! That seems so sad to me. Sorry to hijack your thread, but you just need to dress as nice as you want and you'll be fine.

I am on your cruise too but mostly have been lurking. I haven't been on a DCL since Jan 1999:scared1: and that was only a 3 day trip (well before they started the 7 day ones). So I am catching up with what's offered and what's new. I'm sure I'll post more as things get closer

The only excurstion we are committed to are Myan ruins in Cozumel (DH is a history/ancient civilization buff), everything else will have to wait to see what $$$ are available. Can't wait for the new passporter to come out.

[cakesnjammom]

I have been thinking of eating in room the formal night, don't know what to pack for myself or my ds who will be 10 for the trip. Can't really afford a tux for him and he has a crazy pant size. not quite 10 but 8 too short. Do people do this(eat in room) or is that just a crazy thought. I am sewing all our pirate outfits myself, sister and ds. Will probably sew FE too, but have to find the right fabric. :hippie:
.
do not eat in your room just for that reason (dh and I had room service one night when we cruised for our honeymoon and it was nice not to have to "doll up :rolleyes1 ")...slacks and a button down and tie will be fine OR just a nice golf shirt and khakis would be fine (if you have a Goodwill or Salvation Army GREAT finds on this stuff there too:thumbsup2 ....complete tuxes on ebay are $30 and under if you want to do that although I know $30 is steep for a one time deal....saw one for $22 for ds! but if you are uncomfortable eat at one of the other restaurants on board!!! enjoy the "magic" and thanks for reading!!! :woohoo:

[cakesnjammom]

DON'T EAT IN YOUR ROOM!! That seems so sad to me. Sorry to hijack your thread, but you just need to dress as nice as you want and you'll be fine.

I am on your cruise too but mostly have been lurking. I haven't been on a DCL since Jan 1999:scared1: and that was only a 3 day trip (well before they started the 7 day ones). So I am catching up with what's offered and what's new. I'm sure I'll post more as things get closer

The only excurstion we are committed to are Myan ruins in Cozumel (DH is a history/ancient civilization buff), everything else will have to wait to see what $$$ are available. Can't wait for the new passporter to come out.

oh my I am so w/ you on that passporter!:worship: I cannot wait...sometime in April!!!:yay: Welcome back and thanks for reading...cannot wait to hear more of your plans...check out the cruise meets thread for our cruise if you haven't already!!:cheer2: Come on September...not that I am wishing the days away!pirate:

[kileybeth]

Just poppin' in to see what's up!

Sometimes I think that when you read meet threads, trip reports, and even just generally the DIS, you get the feeling that everyone is wearing tuxes, doing an excursion in every port and renting this or renting that all 7 days of a week long cruise. Oh and eating at Palo, ordering every drink of the day, and paying for candy before each movie.

Guess what? I don't believe it! I think it is a collective mentality. Well, so and so said this so it must be the thing to do and so and so went here so everyone must go. . .

My family is booked in 2 cat12-GTY cabins because that is all we can possibly afford. I'll happily be the "poor relation" just to get to go!

We have a really tight budget for extras so probably not many extras for us either. oh well.

Would I like to do all those things? You betcha! But tux rental for my 3 men and formal dresses for me and my girls? That is crazy $$$ for us.

And while dolphin swims and stingray petting and pirate cruises all have there appeal; just being in Cozumel and Caymen sounds pretty cool to me!

I will order room service at least once just because I can! HA! but I wouldn't skip a fancy dinner just for lack of perfect clothes. nah! Go for the atmoshere and enjoy yourself!

Paige, I rented through Avis/Hertz right online. I have to get a vehicle for 6 so my rates are high only b/c of that. Lots of 4 person vehicles for a lot less. I think I have an Ford Expidition booked on Caymen thru Avis(if I don't cancel! (because they don't have vans?)for about $150 all inclusive. And my car with Hertz on Cozumel (minivan) for about $85. Renting on Caymen is pretty standard. Mexico I did a lot of looking and decided to stick with a "big name" for my own peace of mind.

Passporter! I am hemming and hauling about ordering a new one! I have an older deluxe version one that I have had checked out of my public library for going on 9 weeks now! :rotfl: I just keep renewing it if no one else reserves or wants it. Once my trip is locked in (read that past full refund date!) and I read on here about how everyone loves their new one? I may end up getting a new one.


184days!!!

[cakesnjammom]

I hear ya "kiley beth" right on...feel the same here Our trip will be exciting no matter what we do because we get to GO!!! Whoo-hoo!

We will not be doing much extras either...thrilled.

Today I am going to try to squeeze some "craft time" in to work on my FE! I need to finish it...but we shall see if I get to it because we have a very busy day...t-ball and church...already got my walking and laundry done today but hmmmm I hope I get to it!
Well better go "surf" thru here while I can!
Loving all the posts! Thanks for reading and keep 'em coming!!

[tonysmom6093]

Thanks you all for your advice, I went on a Disney cruise when Premier still had the cruises, Big Red Boat, Uh oh showing my age, this was way before my ds was born, took my mom on a land and sea vacation, this seem way different, having trouble waiting until Sept. See you all on THE cruise:woohoo:

[JanDave]

Hey - I found you guys on this pre-trip report! Hi!

This cruise will be #12 for me. I can tell you my opinion about formal night, but it's just an opinion. You will see more men not in tuxes. You will see men in suits, sportcoats, shirts/ties, shirts, casual, etc. You will see women dressed up in finer attire and all aspects of attire, as well. Me - I don't dress up. I will wear a dress or slacks and a dressy blouse. DH usually brings a sport coat and tie. The sport coat stays in the room if he's not in the mood to wear it. The little girls are mostly in princess attire. What I'm saying is that no matter what you wear, it will be appropriate.

As for Palo, if you decide to go, go to at least one meal, whether it is brunch or dinner. It is a treat. Again, for dress, I wear slacks and a nice top. Nothing too dressy. Brunch is casual, dinner tends to get dressier, but not all guests are formally attired.

Wear what you will feel comfortable in. Remember, also, that if you're flying to Orlando, airlines are strict about overweight luggage. I'm hoping to remember to pack lighter than usual.

Excursions:

Key West - is one of my favorite ports. We may opt out of the trolley car ride. I've done that twice now. It's interesting. I want to get to Kenos Sandals on that Sunday but they close at 2pm so if you plan to buy or browse, get there before 2pm.

I have no plans for GC. I think my DH and DD and DSIL will go on a stingray tour. I have no desire to do that and as I have been to GC twice within the past year, I plan to stay on the ship. We will be tendering at GC.

Coz - on my last cruise with my DD's m-i-l on the Magic in January 2009, we booked an excursion on our own. Nachi Cocum. We rented a taxi, paid about $45 per person for the day which included beach chairs, ocean, pool, all food and drinks. The day was not a nice one as it had been raining before we got there and it was overcast. We had a nice, relaxing time despite the weather.

CC - head to Serenity Bay :thumbsup2 I usually spend several hours at CC, but end up back on the ship by 1 or 2pm and take advantage of an empty ship.

Can't wait to meet all of you!

I'm getting in the DCL mode of "I wanna be on that ship". I just talked to my DDIL this afternoon about our November 2010 Wonder cruise. She had a lot of questions.

Jan

[cakesnjammom]

hi Jan, so glad to see ya here! Thanks for the great advice from a pro! Sept cannot come soon enough for me! I have enjoyed the NAVS!

[cakesnjammom]

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/IMG_1851.jpg

upclose:

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[hannahguad]

HI! Oh reading your pre-trip is getting me more excited! I am on the same cruise! :banana: I think that we are going to surprise DD with it. We have nothing planned yet as far as excursions. I have been too busy thinking about my FE gifts. :lmao: Can't wait to read more.
:surfweb: IS IT SEPTEMBER YET???:rotfl2:

[cakesnjammom]

HI! Oh reading your pre-trip is getting me more excited! I am on the same cruise! :banana: I think that we are going to surprise DD with it. We have nothing planned yet as far as excursions. I have been too busy thinking about my FE gifts. :lmao: Can't wait to read more.
:surfweb: IS IT SEPTEMBER YET???:rotfl2:

Thanks I am so glad to hear from you! CAnnot wait...tell me again who is going on your trip with you????some many posts on our meet I cannot keep everyone straight...between here and the passporter boards....I get all confused:upsidedow...an idea came to dh and I for FE gifts and I need to get to it!

[hannahguad]

I am so glad our meet group is so active, it really will make it more fun 'knowing' a bit more about people prior.:thumbsup2 My traveling group consists of myself, DH, and DD (11 years old). DD will be in the younger aged group due to her being mentally disabled and she enjoys playing with younger kids better! Disney get's that and they are so good with her! Not into typical boys and stuff like that! Also staying in a adjoining (door in our room) cabin is my DM. DM and I are both going to be having b-day's on that cruise, one the day we leave and the other the day we get back! :cheer2:.

I just printed off instructions on how to make your own FE WITHOUT sewing:dance3:!! I am going to attempt that one next week:teacher:

[JanDave]

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/IMG_1851.jpg

upclose:

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Love your FE! I cheated. I bought mine on Ebay a couple of years ago from a DISer. Don't know if I'll bring it on this cruise as we are not participating this time.

Glad to have you with us, Karen! This is a great group of cruisers!

Jan

[gwtinkerbell427]

Hi, cant wait for cruise wither
Don't think I'll be doing excurions in any of the ports except Castaway, will do the extreme package (snorkliong, stingray, bike, tube rental)
As for Key West I'll get off and walk around town. Want to go to the Little White House and the Southern most point and the Route 1 mile marker. ( take rt 1 to work and i could take t to key west, but it would take me forerver and a day to get there)
As for Grand Caymen and Couzmel I may get off for a little while and look at the town, but than get back on ship to enjoy the ship.
Castaway I will be 1st in line to get off and wait to the last horn to get bak on. Wish we could have our whole vacation at castaway cay.

take care
gretchen

[cakesnjammom]

well just a little mini update...
still here still surfing the boards and I decided I just could not wait for my 2009 Passporter so I ordered the 2008 (actually when I pre-ordered the 2009 I was so excited that I did not pay attention that it would not be mailed until April 2009 :rotfl:) so this will work better! Not that many differences in the 2009 on the Western cruise so....I cannot wait! The sooner the better popcorn::. No new plans now...just figuring out FE gifts! And that is about it! Once my PP Guide arrives I will SOAK it all in :cloud9:! Fill me in if any of your plans have changed or been updated...cannot wait to hear!

[mousetravel]

Subscribing!:surfweb:

[disneychic]

Love the pre-TR! Thanks for posting popcorn::

[MrToadsGirl79]

I absolutely have to thank you! My husband and I are on this cruise too, and after reading your pre-trip report I am changing our plans for the day before.

We're going to go to the Halloween party too! Best. Idea. Ever!!! :)

So thanks for the idea, I am totally stealing it :thumbsup2

[disneyfaninaz]

If you're still looking into Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween party, I highly recommend it. The parade and fireworks are worth the price of admission alone if you can swing it.

[cakesnjammom]

Well after talking with a friend today who's planning a Disney cruise too it reminded me I have not updated this trip report recently....well things have changed so much and I cannot remember where I left off so...
The "guys" tuxes came in (we ordered them thru the Tuxxman on ebay) I just called him and asked for a deal! And he gave me one! $88 for both! I need to get tux shirts for them though!:wizard:
Have not bought my MNSSHP tix yet but am glad to finally know the prices:cool1:!
Excursions will still be limited for us...but since we have never been on the boat we will take full advantage of "peeking around":magnify: and activities while others are in port! We will get off at most ports but just to look around a bit and then back on the boat.
:drinking1If anyone is interested in the Tequila tasting in Cozumel we have some friends who recently did it and it is 5-7 shots of to-kill-ya :sad2:....I would never be able to get back to the boat but we sampled a TINY sample of a dessert Tequila she bought...wow! She taught me that Tequila must breathe before you drink it! We are not big drinkers but I think dh may try Tequila since it does not contain wheat!:sick: Most liquors make him break out around the eyes...it is an asian thing...he is 1/2 Japanese! my dd says she is a japanese quarter :lmao:!
Most of you know I took a job so that does not give me as much time to Disney cruise dream...which is good because time will move much quicker...come on Sept! but it has made me really slack on staying up-to-date on the boards!:scared:
I still have not called the Residence Inn to see if free parking is available to us since we will be staying there on rewards ponts? Someone told me if you stay free they maay not let us take advantage...which just seems wrong on Marriott's part seeing as how we are Marriott Reward Customers! (We had to stay with them quite a bit to get the points, DUH!) in the 1st place but who knows!
The kids pirate outfits are done...not costumes...outfits...I will try and post a pic soon..not using my regular computer now because ds is watching a movie on mine!:rolleyes: MIl made dd some super cute Minnie dresses (meaning with Minnie's silohette on the front!)::MinnieMo
Got all of our formal wear...we are all wearing white and black! Here is my dress: http://www.coldwatercreek.com/Products/productzoomPopUp.aspx?FileName=H50510_994_D02.JPG&ProductID=46927&shortDescription=&ImageType=E&uniqueid=null&index=null&ensembleid=53030

I have bought Bonine and children's Bonine and some odds and ends along the way! I gotta' stock up on sunscreen when the sales go on at the end of the season!:sunny:
Oh and of course gotta get that cruise paid off!:tink:so send the pixie dust my way that I sell some real estate :thumbsup2 that closes soon:darth: may the force be with me!
I DID get my cruise kit! Nice little packet! and it got the excitement churning again!party:Happy planning to all and kileybeth if you are listening...how many days left??? 130 something I think! :hyper:

[kileybeth]

Just have a second, Thanks for updating the report!

How does

128 Days!!!!

sound to ya??!!!

Did you get my email from earlier today? Yes, I lost my FE list and can not find it!

Gotta run!

[NCjenn]

Paige, I really LOVE the dress you will be wearing!!!!

Jenniferprincess:

[cakesnjammom]

Paige, I really LOVE the dress you will be wearing!!!!

Jenniferprincess:

awww thanks Jennifer! Hope your plans are going well!

[jonesing]

The "guys" tuxes came in (we ordered them thru the Tuxxman on ebay) I just called him and asked for a deal! And he gave me one! $88 for both! I need to get tux shirts for them though!:wizard:

Larry (Tuxxman) is great! I decided to buy rather than rent and it was the best decision! The tux turned out to be a Joseph Aboud made for Bloomingdale's...brand new, tags still on. Took it to Men's Wearhouse for tailoring and the tailor was amazed at the awesome price I got the tux for! I splurged and got a special item from Larry as well:
http://i2.ebayimg.com/02/i/04/bf/35/11_1_b.JPG

We also got a tuxedo, shirt, tie and shoes for DS (5 months at the time) from eBay merchants. A local store priced their formal baby shoes at ~$3 more than we paid for his entire tux ensamble!!

...

I didn't read the whole thread yet but you asked about parking at the RI? I'm Marriott gold and I see that RI is nice and close to the port :) We might try there rather than going to the Renaissance MCO or Hyatt. We'll have a rental car and I'll more than likely drop everyone off at the port building and return the car. But for leaving your car at RI, if you look at the front of the hotel as you come down the drive you'll see the portico. At the end of the drive you bear to the right (which allows you to cut left and pull under the portico to check in) the parking spaces to the right of the portico and adjacent to the hotel are the handicap spots. The corresponding spaces next to the hotel and to the left of the portico are regular spots. I'd probably try parking there, as close as possible to the portico.

Next option would be directly across from those spaces (the side closest to A1A) and to the immediate left or right of the driveway..as close to the driveway as possible. As a final option I'd try for one of the 3 spaces on the back side closest to the pool. Those spaces provide lots of visibility and traffic passing by your car. It would be plenty obvious if someone were hanging around your car. Just my $0.02.

[DisneyKid@heart]

Love the mickey vest! That is great.

Thanks to you guys for telling us about Tuxxman.

Loving the pre-trip report and can't wait to read more!

Shannon

[cakesnjammom]

Larry (Tuxxman) is great! I decided to buy rather than rent and it was the best decision! The tux turned out to be a Joseph Aboud made for Bloomingdale's...brand new, tags still on. Took it to Men's Wearhouse for tailoring and the tailor was amazed at the awesome price I got the tux for! I splurged and got a special item from Larry as well:
http://i2.ebayimg.com/02/i/04/bf/35/11_1_b.JPG

We also got a tuxedo, shirt, tie and shoes for DS (5 months at the time) from eBay merchants. A local store priced their formal baby shoes at ~$3 more than we paid for his entire tux ensamble!!

...

I didn't read the whole thread yet but you asked about parking at the RI? I'm Marriott gold and I see that RI is nice and close to the port :) We might try there rather than going to the Renaissance MCO or Hyatt. We'll have a rental car and I'll more than likely drop everyone off at the port building and return the car. But for leaving your car at RI, if you look at the front of the hotel as you come down the drive you'll see the portico. At the end of the drive you bear to the right (which allows you to cut left and pull under the portico to check in) the parking spaces to the right of the portico and adjacent to the hotel are the handicap spots. The corresponding spaces next to the hotel and to the left of the portico are regular spots. I'd probably try parking there, as close as possible to the portico.

Next option would be directly across from those spaces (the side closest to A1A) and to the immediate left or right of the driveway..as close to the driveway as possible. As a final option I'd try for one of the 3 spaces on the back side closest to the pool. Those spaces provide lots of visibility and traffic passing by your car. It would be plenty obvious if someone were hanging around your car. Just my $0.02.

Thanks! I did call RI and parking is free if you are staying on points per Terry (female):thumbsup2
Love the vest! And Larry is great!pirate:
I will definitely check the spaces by the portico! Great info and good visibility!:idea:
Thanks for reading! I will post more soon!

[cakesnjammom]

the days get more exciting by the minute...I would pack now if I could. I keep adding things to our "cruise" box. My newest thought is to ship a box to port with Sand Buckets and other things so we do not have to pack them in our luggage...I am sure I could find lots of things that could go in that box verses luggage. I need to check those shipping requirements when I get closer to that point though.
I had read all the posts lately about upgrading at port but have decided should that "money" appear I will use it to re-book for next Oct. instead. SO I am starting to research that a little. I think we will go Eastern if we are lucky enough to re-book for 2010! I need to make sure it is 1/2 of the regular deposit when you re-book onboard? Anyone know?
We have our passports and little odds and end so now I am just keepiong up with a packing list (some things are things I want to buy at the end of the season...rash guards, etc) And we should be good to go. Got all the dates marked on the calendar for ressies etc...now more of the waiting game!:rolleyes1
Chime in, I would love to hear your plans! Tell me about your 2010 cruise plans....anyone get a deal that they could not refuse??

[pam775]

It is exciting. We are on the 10/31 Western and I can hardly stand all the waiting. I only have the cruise and our airfare booked at this time. I have many other things to plan (car rental, hotels) as we are staying an extra day on each end of the cruise. We want to to downtown disney and the Kennedy Space Center, too. This will be our first Disney cruise and the first cruise for my kids, who will be 6 and 8. Also we are surprising them!! Thanks for sharing your plans. You'll have a great trip!

[disney minnie]

It's been awhile since I have read your "details", but if you are planning on mailing a package and having a "treat" in your room, why not do what we are doing. Instead of ordering special treats for our children I bought the beach buckets and I'm filling them with items that they would use on the boat... autograph book, flashlight, etc.

[cakesnjammom]

Well things are getting exciting....96 days to go. And of course dh and I are kicking ourselves :idea:for not booking a CAT 10-secret porthole room when they were open (no SPR avail and 10's only available on deck 2 now and I do not want t move to deck 2 because I know my kiddos will want to go to the pool a lot not to mention the drink station). And to upgrade higher than a CAT 10:rolleyes1 will take all my re-booking money (I wanna go again next year and do an Eastern!):cutie::goodvibes So I gotta watch the money closely. :thumbsup2

We are headed to the beach for a week (Boca Raton, FL) on my dh's company YAY and we go right by Orlando....the car just may drive itself there :lmao:I am trying to convince dh we need to spend the weekend there on the way home but it so pricey to do that....not to mention we would sweat to death :headache: which I am NOT for! HOT natured chic here!:scared:
We just bought Disney rash guards for the kids...$7.99 at the Disney store...CM said that is the lowest they will go. Can't beat it and they will be able to use them for this beach trip too.:banana: I really should look into stopping in Orlando and going to Blizzard Beach. We have done Typhoon Lagoon before and this would be a perfect opportunity!! Hmmm...I also thought about Vero Beach but that is not a far enough from Boca and I want to be headed home that weekend. Maybe I should look into tix :rolleyes:
I put dd's hair in pillow rollers (like sponge curlers) last night to practice up-do's for the cruise...not exactly what thought but we definitely have some good hair-dos to use now (after our practice). Her hair is hard...it is so FINE and has wave to it. Mine on the other hand a curl-fest and that is how it will be most of the time on our trip because there is no sense to fight it!!:laughing: FUTILE!pirate:
Got dd sparkle shoes...kinda look like glass slippers and they will go with all her dresses so she is set. DS still needs tux bow tie and cummerbun and black shoes (buying plain tennis shoes) so he can wear them more than just this trip! DH needs a tux shirt and I need hot pink jewelry (cannot find what I am looking for yet) and really that is it for clothing needed!! Oh wait...I take that back...ds and dh need sun hats!!:cool2:
Is it SEPT yet??
Well pray we have safe travels...it will be a long drive for my little ones:angel:, "are we there yet?"
I am counting down the days to be able to make ressies...not much longer...I hope everyone is getting what they want! Take care :grouphug:

[cakesnjammom]

It's been awhile since I have read your "details", but if you are planning on mailing a package and having a "treat" in your room, why not do what we are doing. Instead of ordering special treats for our children I bought the beach buckets and I'm filling them with items that they would use on the boat... autograph book, flashlight, etc.
I love it and just may do that! Thanks

[CurlyBlueEyes]

Just an FYI since you have time before the cruise, you might want to check out www.naturallycurly.com for some tips on working with your curls. I found that site three years ago and my hair is now something I love instead of hate :worship:

The have forums/boards like here on the DIS in their Curl Community section. I love lurking there as much ad I do here on the DIS :love:

Can't wait until September!

[cakesnjammom]

Just an FYI since you have time before the cruise, you might want to check out www.naturallycurly.com (http://www.naturallycurly.com) for some tips on working with your curls. I found that site three years ago and my hair is now something I love instead of hate :worship:

The have forums/boards like here on the DIS in their Curl Community section. I love lurking there as much ad I do here on the DIS :love:

Can't wait until September!

I am a 3b what are you? What is your favorite product? Fill me in on what you have learned???????:thumbsup2

[CurlyBlueEyes]

I can't remember my hair designation, but if all goes well, here is a photo of me:
http://s587.photobucket.com/albums/ss320/psorell/?action=view&current=PattysHeadshot.jpg

My hair was totally transformed after I became a curly Girl. This shot is of my first haircut with a true Curly Stylist. Although I hear all good things about the H2O products the ship has, I'm still gonna bring all my own Co-wash mixture and LOTS of gel.

[cakesnjammom]

I can't remember my hair designation, but if all goes well, here is a photo of me:
http://s587.photobucket.com/albums/ss320/psorell/?action=view&current=PattysHeadshot.jpg

My hair was totally transformed after I became a curly Girl. This shot is of my first haircut with a true Curly Stylist. Although I hear all good things about the H2O products the ship has, I'm still gonna bring all my own Co-wash mixture and LOTS of gel.
Where/how did you find your curly stylist? What products do you love? Love your pic...pretty curls...how do you fix it???

[CurlyBlueEyes]

One time when I was lurking on the NC boards, someone was looking for hair models to train stylists in Loraine Massy's salon and i quickly volunteered. I'm in Boston, so driving to NYC was easy for a free haircut and color :banana: To find my local stylist in Boston, I used the NaturallyCurly site and clicked on the Curl Salons tab. That along with some glowing reccomendations helped me find the right gal

My routine is Co-wash with Suave Naturals Coconut
Rinse, then add Fast Food Leave in Conditioner by AG
Lots of LA Looks gel (the blue one for curls)
If I think I may need extra hold when its wet or windy, I'll add a bit of BioSilk Rock Hard Gelee (but its really hard to find and $$$ so I only use it when really needed)

I know I'll need all the hold I can get up on Deck and in those windy ports, but I'll still be bringing a number of scrunchies and clips just in case :rolleyes1

See you soon!

[gvivanco]

Hi, everyone,

I am new to these boards, and this will be my (and my family's) first Disney cruise. We are so excited. :yay: It's so much fun just planning, but gets a little overwhelming! I love reading everyone's posts! It just gets me that much more excited, and I love all the great ideas! It's really cool getting to "meet" other people who will be on the same cruise! This is the first time I've posted on boards at all, so I am definitely a "newbie" at all this!

Gretchen (I saw in an earlier post there's another Gretchen - don't see that name much! :cool2: )

[cakesnjammom]

WELCOME Gretchen!

OH BOY....we are in Delray Beach now and has this trip taught me a TON of stuff about the four of us in a small space....the cruise will be smaller quarters!! I will list my tips when I return home!
Hope everyone is well! :goodvibes

[cakesnjammom]

Now for the things I learned on our recent trip that will help with our cruise!!

* We need more rolling bags! Got one at DTD!
* Never leave home without room spray===PU potty!
* Pack my jewelry so it is safer (delicate not expensive)
* Less is more! (when a laundry room is available)
* We will need a bottle of spray-on sunscreen for each day and sensitive skin sunscreen for faces!
* DD needs a sweater/sweatshirt even in summer
* Life vests for swimming are no longer needed by kids!
* Beach toys are a pain to drag around (we will just use the Mickey plates)
* We really need a steamer trunk!
* Bring my shoe organizer on every trip not just WDW!
* Make sure to always have camera and accessories ready!
* Keep up with sunglasses!
* You can never have too many pillows in the CAR for the drive
* Hair products and accessories are a MUST for curly girls.
* Have a wide selection of DVD's and working headphones for kids in car!
Think that is IT!:lmao:

[kileybeth]

Now for the things I learned on our recent trip that will help with our cruise!!

* We need more rolling bags! Got one at DTD!
we finally got rid of our last non rolling bag last year. Now everyone has a rolling carryon and suitecase. Huge difference. :thumbsup2

* Never leave home without room spray===PU potty!
whatcha bringing for the ships bathroom(s)? I'm not sure which kind to choose but I will be bringing something!
* Pack my jewelry so it is safer (delicate not expensive)
ugh, I am so bad about this!
* Less is more! (when a laundry room is available)
am a little worried about finding time on the ship. . .
* We will need a bottle of spray-on sunscreen for each day and sensitive skin sunscreen for faces!

oiy! excellent information! I've been spraying my two white as sheets little ones every day for going out back on our deck and their little kiddie pool. . .no burns yet but in caribbean I'm guessing we will all need it.
* DD needs a sweater/sweatshirt even in summer
great reminder, putting it on my list, I am always warm/hot so often forget my peanuts get cold easily.
* Life vests for swimming are no longer needed by kids!
awesome, my two kiddos will need all the help they can get. sadly, no access to a "big" pool regularly. My older ones grew up with an inground pool in our backyard and are fish. . .and now the two of them that are coming along? will probably not even swim much!
* Beach toys are a pain to drag around (we will just use the Mickey plates)
love this idea!
* We really need a steamer trunk!
:rotfl::rotfl: I need at least two!
* Bring my shoe organizer on every trip not just WDW!
hhhmmm, I have one but am unsure if I am organized enough or can marshall my trops to be organized enough to use it?
* Make sure to always have camera and accessories ready!
terrible at this AND my only camera I use faithfully is on my cell phone which I will not be using. . .sigh
* Keep up with sunglasses!
bringing 3 pairs for me alone!
* You can never have too many pillows in the CAR for the drive
and a light blanket/sheet. . .
* Hair products and accessories are a MUST for curly girls.
x3 girls oiy!
* Have a wide selection of DVD's and working headphones for kids in car!
check, check
Think that is IT!:lmao:

I waffle between pairing down my list(s) and then adding on more stuff! :sad2:

glad your beach trip was a fun and preparatory trip for you all! I don't think we will have much of a chance to get away before September. The DH is at least acknowledging that we are actually going now! sheesh. He's a bit consumed with the old/new job thing. Hope the real estate venture is going well for you.

I've been slacking over on the meet thread. Gotta get motivated again!

[gvivanco]

Hi, guys!

Thanks for all the tips! We just went on a beach vacation down to Bradenton, FL, so it does help to see kinda what you need to improve on! ;)

I was using the bullfrog continuous spray sunscreen on my kids and they still got sunburned! I've always loved bullfrog, so maybe it's the operator.....:rolleyes1 Maybe I didn't re-apply enough??

Anyway, it's getting close, and I'm getting so excited!!! I want to start packing, but I know I'll be packing things we still need now!! :confused3

See ya real soon!

Gretchen

[cakesnjammom]

Time is flying by!! 2 months from last Sunday and we will be on the MAGIC! We are so fired up now! Many of you have already read that money has gotten tight for us (way tighter than expected)! If it would have been this evident prior to July 1st we would have cancelled but since it became clear after our cancel "free and clear" date we are still planning to cruise (biting the bullet):upsidedow.
DH says we will make up for it upon our return.:hug:
I work as an on-site sales agent in new home sales and I have had no closings yet but I have had tons of UPFRONT costs. Everyone thinks real estate agents make easy money (and probably some have in the past) but today it is nearly impossible to make any money. Once I get paid from closings I will still be in the hole. Start-up cost and costs to stay afloat are brutal. I pay to work??:sad2: It is pure insanity...at some point you have to make some financial decisions :teacher:. I have never worked so hard and been so mentally spent, people can be abusive (not DISers, of course)! "Mama's don't let your babies grow up to be cowboys!":offtopic: now back on track...there are mixed emotions in this vacation because of money :bitelip: but when I start planning and posting and making "secretive" FE gifts I get excited :yay:. DH and I definately want to upgrade to a Cat 10 b/c of split bathroom but I am not sure that will happen. I think we are also having to back out of MNSSHP this time too :headache: I was so looking forward to it and so was my family but money talks and peeps walk (away from MNSSHP!) :guilty: when you can't hear the money talking ;)
DH tried on his tux today and for anyone needing tux accessories I have heard Burlington Coat Factory has great deals on shirts etc...$12. I think we may cancel dh's massage too and do something more as a "family" with that money. I can get him a massage here in NC.
We have been making "serious" lists now...things to pack...things to buy....things to do! Our "DIS meet" group have been posting pics lately and it is so fun to see them...real people getting excited right slong with us.
DH did a FE map of all our participating cabins today and we will add to it as people are assigned.
Well remind me of all the things I need to do...I need a check and balance system.
I am so enjoying the Dapplebeans Rejuvenation TR popcorn::...check it out if you have not already...I am in love w/ Ollie. I have 2 beagles, Daisy and Lily, so I totally related to having to leave my babies!
Looking for all the advice I can get at this point :surfweb:! Come on DISers post, am I that bad a writer????pirate:!! I need to get in touch with NCJenn and see how her plans are going, we can get our "plans" going!::yes::
me and my kiddos
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/078.jpg

[kileybeth]

Awesome Picture Paige! You guys are so stinkin' sweet and cute lookin'!

I hear you about the job thing. It is just totally crazy right now. My DH is leaving his job of 25 years:scared1: to take a new one in large part due to this economy and related issues. Did you hear that huge sigh? One of my best friends runs a real estate office and has had to let all of her staff go and is working crazy hours just to keep things afloat and taking half paychecks. . . awful right now. Her DH just "retired" from Chrysler.

We need this cruise!! We are gonna have a wonderful time despite it all, there is plenty of time when we get home to eat mac n cheese and spaghetti right? :rotfl:

My cruise list and paperwork where taking over the kitchen counter and it is so bad now I am on "overwhlemed" speed, meaning I shut completely down for days at a time trying to figure out what to do next! ugh!

:idea:I think that's what I need to do, go read a good trip report!

Keep posting and I'm sure more and more people will stop by the closer in to the cruise is gets.

[cakesnjammom]

so glad to see you here kileybeth! just got finished looking all your pics....precious children! that pic of your packed van....OMG and 20hrs...that is a haul! We are lucky to be in NC and not have as long of a haul. I hope your travels are very soothing:lovestruc

YES WE NEED THIS CRUISE :goodvibes...I will load the pantry with noodles for our retuirn:rotfl2:

so sorry to hear about your friend in the RE biz...it really will make a sane individual CRAZY :scared: not knowing if a paycheck will come from all your efforts or not. working everyday, the stress (which makes me crave sweets:cake::ssst:...:eek: AND to think my mother has been an agent for years :rolleyes1 I have learned so much about her just by going thru this.

I cannot imagine the adjustment you and your dh have had to make after being employed in the same place for 25 years...culture shock :duck:I am sure you have been rolling with the punches. I hope he is happy with his new employer! :wizard: :wizard:

our kids are going to have a blast :dance3:. my ds does not think he is going unless his behavior improves :worried:...he is driving me nuts this summer :bored:....he wants to be entertained 24/7 :sad2: I wanna say look I am planning a DC give me some space :lmao:but he would never get that:surfweb: Mom get off that computer...but mommies working :laughing:...yeah working planning a cruise:flower3:

Well I tried to get dh to work with me on making lists last night...and we got a little bit done but we are not where we want to be...I need to get all my paperwork into one place.

KILEYBETH are you doing Palo? we are going one night at 9pm (cannot even remember which night...see I need to get organized) but we decided to go late so the kids would be set before we headed off to have a quiet dinner...HT and Brunch were booked.:guilty:

Well talk soon. Everyone keep posting and remind me of all thosew things I need to be doing to prepare!:wave:

[kileybeth]

so glad to see you here kileybeth! just got finished looking all your pics....precious children! that pic of your packed van....OMG and 20hrs...that is a haul! We are lucky to be in NC and not have as long of a haul. I hope your travels are very soothing:lovestruc
I will just block it all out with a good book, that's the plan for now. we do have a dvd player so that helps tooand thank you about the kiddos, blond or not, I'll keep 'em

YES WE NEED THIS CRUISE :goodvibes...I will load the pantry with noodles for our retuirn
thank goodness my kids like them

so sorry to hear about your friend in the RE biz...it really will make a sane individual CRAZY :scared: not knowing if a paycheck will come from all your efforts or not. working everyday, the stress (which makes me crave sweets:cake::ssst:...:eek: AND to think my mother has been an agent for years :rolleyes1 I have learned so much about her just by going thru this.
ahh, I've been saying those kinds of things lately too but it is because I am getting older and understanding what it must have been like for her to have little ones this late in life, I'm the 4th out of 5 and my siblings are 8-13 years older then me and my little sister.

I cannot imagine the adjustment you and your dh have had to make after being employed in the same place for 25 years...culture shock :duck:I am sure you have been rolling with the punches. I hope he is happy with his new employer! :wizard: :wizard:
thanks, it is a huge move for him but he seems energized by it and looking forward to it, it's been a loooonnnnggg process and although he has already met everyone he is working with and done lots of the preliminary stuff, we still have no start date so before/after the cruise is still up in the air :scared1:just crazy and yeah, big adjustment for me too, makes me realize we are so NOT 25 anymore, oiy!

our kids are going to have a blast :dance3:. my ds does not think he is going unless his behavior improves :worried:...he is driving me nuts this summer :bored:....he wants to be entertained 24/7 :sad2: I wanna say look I am planning a DC give me some space :lmao:but he would never get that:surfweb: Mom get off that computer...but mommies working :laughing:...yeah working planning a cruise:flower3:
:rotfl2::rotfl2:summer time crazies, mine just went to free movie morning, chick fil a for lunch and playland and then asked to go to another park?! Can we say SPOILED? :sad2:

Well I tried to get dh to work with me on making lists last night...and we got a little bit done but we are not where we want to be...I need to get all my paperwork into one place.ditto

KILEYBETH are you doing Palo? we are going one night at 9pm (cannot even remember which night...see I need to get organized) but we decided to go late so the kids would be set before we headed off to have a quiet dinner...HT and Brunch were booked.:guilty: definitely dissappointed about brunch so I will probably be right in line with you at the port trying for it but yup! we have PALO for 9pm as well, Thursday I think?. same sortof thinking.

Well talk soon. Everyone keep posting and remind me of all thosew things I need to be doing to prepare!:wave:
We still have two more away Saturday into Sunday events/away times before we cruise and then family coming to stay with us in mid August so busy times all the way through summer BUT I have already been considering where to best "stage" my packing efforts. AS you can imagine with a house full of people and then more visiting, the locations for such is generally not premium, more like under my feet!:sad2:

[Sinderelly]

Hi Paige:

I really enjoy reading your trip report. It gets me even more excited!

It makes me feel better to know someone else has OCTP other than me.

I really appreciate you and your DH making the FE map. I know we would be totally lost without it.

As a first time cruiser I am always thinking there is something I am forgetting to do/plan. :confused3 I am chomping at the bit to start packing but I'm trying to figure out where to put everything. The house has to look "perfect" ya know as it could be shown at any moment. Having a house that is neat and clean at any given moment is making me crazy! If we pack up all our undies/clothes etc what would we do for 59 days without them? :rotfl:

[hannahguad]

Hi Paige,
Just popping in to see how all your planning is going. I can't believe we are under the 2 month mark.:dance3: I definately feel for all you first time cruisers!. I was there last year and it really seems to get overwhelming with everything to try and pack, remember and read. Not to mention that the last month before going, I become a drill sergeant with the hand washing and hand sanitizer! Can't be too careful:goodvibes. I would be so upset if anything kept us back from going on the cruise. Last year, 2 weeks before we left, my DD broke her leg. (darn trampoline) So, there I was a blubbering idiot in the ER telling this doctor, BUT, we are going on a Disney cruise (yes, I had travel insurance and it would've covered it, but if there was a way that I was going to be on that boat, I was going to find it)! It all worked out in the end and we still went (would never do it again, but, we still went and want to go back). So this cruise feels more like a first cruise for us, only we kind of know what to expect. Oh it is going to be sooo fun:woohoo:, I can't wait. And thank you to DH and you for doing the maps. My DH got the hang of forward, aft and blah blah, but I didn't, so those maps will come in handy for us!:yay:
Sending pixie dust and hopes for you selling something before we go:wizard:! Darn economy, makes me guilty that we are going, but DH and I say that we are going to tighten the money belt too after we come back.

[JanDave]

Hello!!!!

Haven't posted in a while. Busy schedule lately.

Hard to believe that two months from now, September 22 (a Tuesday), we will have had a fun day at Grand Cayman.

I signed up to parasail at CC!!!! One item coming off my bucket list.

See all of you in less than 2 months. :cheer2:

Jan

[cakesnjammom]

Sinderelly, hannahguad and jandave you have all made my day for posting...I am so excited and to see you guys are too really makes me happy! Thanks for reading:lovestruc

DH was happy to do the map! It is all on one sheet which will make it easy to get around with...our lil 24 "known" cabins look so piddly compared to that whole big 'ole ship...and I thought we were the majority!:lmao:But we still have 11 cabins to be assigned.

Sinderelly....I hope your home sells soon....think positive thoughts and good vibes and pixie dust are coming your way from me!princess:

hannahguad...I know I feel sorry for us 1st timers too...not knowing what to expect with the kids can be nerve racking. a broken leg on the ship...oh no! sending you pixie dust too that all is super safe prior to travel for your family and all the others traveling with us:grouphug: it can get overwhelming!

jandave...YAY the Grand Caymen in two months from yesterday!:cool2: we cannot wait.

I hate it that the economy is this way...but I so glad to have the support of all of you....I love DISers!! Well keep the post coming and fill me in on what my top priorities should be at this point :rolleyes:

[JanDave]

Top Priorities????

Pre-Cruise
1. Remember to pack lightly, remember Jan, you don't need a new outfit for each day.
2. Make a checklist and remember to look at it!
3. Don't forget camera!
4. Make extra copies of any ressies for hotels, cars, etc.

Enough mundane stuff, now, top priorities for day of embarkation:

1. Get on ship
2. Head to Parrot Cay
3. Go to Rockin Bar D to make adjustments for dining/Palo
4. Go to room and exclaim "I can't believe I'm here again!"
5. Walk around ship, end up at Cove Cafe sometime in the afternoon - one of my favorite spots on the ship
6. Just before 5pm, head to deck 4 and watch us leave port, wave to the CMS, wave to those along the jetty, watch the pilot boat and pilot guy.
7. We're off - time to relax!!!

Enough of my babbling. Everyone have a great day!

Jan

[JanDave]

Ladies and Gentlemen, Girls and Boys, this is your cruise director ________, we have arrived at COZUMEL!!!!!

We'll be hearing a variation of this message two months from now, September 23!

Jan

I have to get back to work now!!!!

[cakesnjammom]

Top Priorities????

Pre-Cruise
1. Remember to pack lightly, remember Jan, you don't need a new outfit for each day.
2. Make a checklist and remember to look at it!
3. Don't forget camera!
4. Make extra copies of any ressies for hotels, cars, etc.

Enough mundane stuff, now, top priorities for day of embarkation:

1. Get on ship
2. Head to Parrot Cay
3. Go to Rockin Bar D to make adjustments for dining/Palo
4. Go to room and exclaim "I can't believe I'm here again!"
5. Walk around ship, end up at Cove Cafe sometime in the afternoon - one of my favorite spots on the ship
6. Just before 5pm, head to deck 4 and watch us leave port, wave to the CMS, wave to those along the jetty, watch the pilot boat and pilot guy.
7. We're off - time to relax!!!

Enough of my babbling. Everyone have a great day!

Jan

I love it....adding to my notes!:thumbsup2

[inmyis]

Wow..Very excited to see all who are sailing on Sept 19th. :banana: My DW booked the Magic for my 40th three years ago. We have sailed with Disney twice with kids and this will the second time without. They are between 17 and 21. This trip is to celebrate our 10th Anniversary!:love: We wil be with a good friend, my SIL and BIL and his Brother and Sister. Ages 40-63. Here is our plan:

Arrive Wed night head to BLT. Golf Thur and Fri...Love that DW enjoys golf!
Fri night MNSSHP. Dress up and have a blast!
Sat: Happy Limo for the 7 of us to Port Canaveral
Only excursion in Cozumel, Mexican Feast on the Beach.
Always do the free martinis at the Art Auctions!
Relax on Castaway Cay
Return Sat 9/26...Happy Limo to Villas at Wilderness Lodge...Golf
Sun...Golf...HOOP DEE DOO fo the 8th time!
Mon..relax and late flight home.

You might Love the Stingray encounter at CC. We did it last time and iyt was fantastic! :woohoo:

[cakesnjammom]

welcome inmyis! so glad you are cruising with us and found my little pre-trip report!!:goodvibes
well things are getting closer....40 days!
still lots to do...my MIL has the guys tux pants to hem and she is also going to let out the arms on ds's jacket out...they grow so quick I hope it will still fit in 40 days!
got all my planning organized into a dayplanner/dayrunner now and have even started setting aside kids clothes!
I am working to stop my mail and call my credit card company...I will get to that one day this week.
I did find sunscreen at CVS B1G150% OFF and I got a $5 off copon when I checked out after buying two cans so I will use that when I buy more. I have got all our documents (except signed payment auth) done and I plan to do that one soon...I just never have my card with me when I have the time to fill it out and print it.:headache:
FE gifts are 1/4 of the way done. I am going to try and do the next 1/4 tonight.
I need to look for flip flops for me....I think I will do that on ebay today.
My babies are visiting at MIL's this week (last trip there before school starts) and I am working but next weekend we are off to GA to celebrate me mom's and my MIL's b-day there.
Once I get tux stuff back from MIL I will be taking a big load to the drycleaners!! I forgot I bought dh and ds some DISNEY ties and I need to get them cleaned as well.
I figured out another dress for me that I already have...so did not have to spend anymore money on clothes for me PLUS I hate trying clothes on...it reminds me of my DENIAL about my big butt and other places:lmao:
I am feeling pretty confident...not overwhelmed at this point like I thought I would be.:rolleyes1
We are having compnay to our house the weekend after we get home from the cruise so I am trying to get some things done at home too...need to paint a little (kids and dogs=mess), clean the carpets and I have picked out a new stain for our front door...now I need to find a new kick plate


No worries...just hoping for a AFFORDABLE upgrade to a CAT 10 (but on the same deck 6...I just hate to be on deck 1 or 2 just because it seems so far from everything).
I am checking the MEET thread everyday to see if any cabin assignments have been made for GTY or if the magical dcl fairy has been at work...saw someone was upgraded on a SEPT 10th 3 day cruise on the main forum so we should be seeing some movement regarding our cruise before too long.
Well I guess that is it for now...sorry no real exciting news here. Oh I did get a little bonus for my closing and I am trying to decide whether to use it to upgrade to a 10 at the port or buy tix for MNSSHP...or apply it towards a new sofa for when we can back and I can make a little more??? We really need that sofa (here's where I have to mention those 2 kids and 2 dogs again-messy Marvin's!)
Well fill me in on what your focus is for the cruise! I love hearing from you all.
Til We Chat Again :) TTFN!

[daveyc150]

Just thought i'd drop by and say hi, can't wait for the cruise, it's not long now!:cool1:

[gvivanco]

Hi, Paige! I hear you're in GA now (from the meet board!)

Welcome to GA! How long are you here? Just the weekend?

I love your pretrip report! :lovestruc

I will be right there with y'all in line to get a Palo brunch!! I was so looking forward to the brunch - I've heard it's awesome!! And there was nothing when I went to book! I also have a 9pm Palo for dinner on PIRATE NIGHT!! I want to see about changing that, too! :thumbsup2

Hi to everyone else on here that's on our Sept 19th cruise!!! :wave2:

Gretchen

[cakesnjammom]

Well we are getting closer...33 days and counting.
We were in GA this weekend...we celebrated my mom's and my mil's b-day!
I FINALLY ordered my dh a tux shirt (none in his size at Burlington Coat Factory here).
I got all our outfits and custom made dresses(for dd) from mil this weekend. YAY.
She also altered tuxes for me and now they are ready to go to the cleaners to be cleaned and placed in the dry cleaning bags. dd formal dress must be cleaned and the disney ties I got them need to be cleaned too.
I bought 3 cans of sunscreen still need a few more. Now to figure out haircare products to take with me...believe me this is an issue that needs to be addressed! thanks to curlyblueeyes to joined naturallycurly.com and am a true "product junkie"...I now need my own bag of "haircare" products when traveling not to mention my sleep machine (sleep apnea) so I am no longer a light packer!
Well fill me in! What is going on with any lurkers I may have???

[CurlyBlueEyes]

I'm here too! I am also very anxious to see when we get our rooms now that we are GTY. I am checking every day :wizard:

I am doing bits of shopping here and there for new shorts, I have lost 8 lbs so far and am hoping to make it an even 15 before we set sail. I told myself I won't start packing until the 30 day mark (3 days left)

FYI, that SIL that Inmyis was talking about was ME! :thumbsup2 we're gonna have a blast. They are Dis experts and know their way around very well...

And don't stress out too much about the curls, 'cause the wind up on deck will likely ruin all our beauty pans :lmao:

[Sinderelly]

Hi Paige:

I really enjoy reading your pre trip report. It sounds like you have all your to-dos so very well organized. I'm always worried I will forget something or leave something off my to-do list that is very important.

I can't wait to start packing. I have been throwing all our cruise "goodies" in a plastic storage tub.

I am waiting very patiently for our cabin assignment. :rotfl:

[cakesnjammom]

I'm here too! I am also very anxious to see when we get our rooms now that we are GTY. I am checking every day :wizard:

I am doing bits of shopping here and there for new shorts, I have lost 8 lbs so far and am hoping to make it an even 15 before we set sail. I told myself I won't start packing until the 30 day mark (3 days left)

FYI, that SIL that Inmyis was talking about was ME! :thumbsup2 we're gonna have a blast. They are Dis experts and know their way around very well...

And don't stress out too much about the curls, 'cause the wind up on deck will likely ruin all our beauty pans :lmao:
great! 8 lbs. that is great. I had lost 15 lbs but when work got so stressful I starting eating sweets (too many of them). Keep up the hard work. So neat to have your SIL on the cruise!! That is going to be too fun.


Hi Paige:

I really enjoy reading your pre trip report. It sounds like you have all your to-dos so very well organized. I'm always worried I will forget something or leave something off my to-do list that is very important.

I can't wait to start packing. I have been throwing all our cruise "goodies" in a plastic storage tub.

I am waiting very patiently for our cabin assignment. :rotfl:
Thanks....I know, right? It is so hard to be patient.
Well I wish I had more done....work really threw me off course but I am getting back on schedule and I am a DIS addict again...I spend WAY too much time here....I want an upgrade so bad and you know that means NO DICE if my luck continues (I should be happy just to be on the boat :rolleyes1) but I always do this: ALWAYS...on our 1st WDW trip we were all scheduled to stay at Coronado Springs Resort..well I start questioning 6+ months of planning...will be happy at a moderate, we are getting free dining so we should splurge, being near the monorail would save us some much hassle, DISNEY math I have heard it called :teacher: so we called the TA and asked if she could get us moved to the Polynesian, she did and this is :scared1: what we did when we saw the bill! But it was all worth it...it was so nice to hop on the monorail and not to worry about parking and getting to the car with 2 kids who were exhausted every evening...it was the one WDW trip where we did not need a "vacation" after our vacation!
recently on our trip to the beach in FL I did the same thing...but for a different reason...the hotel had a weird odor...so we changed after the 2nd night...we tried air freshener, febreeze...etc with no luck...

I am trying so hard to figure out a way to work MNSSHP back in our plans...I have some old gold jewelry that I need to sell and I am hoping that when I do I will have more cash than expected.:idea: we shall see.
I think my kids and are going to start making our own autograph books...just saw a great post on that here on the DIS and I think I will try it...wish I would have seen this earlier I would have made them as FE gifts for the kids.

[UGAFan0829]

Hey there, Paige!!
I noticed the link in your siggie after you posted on my TR, so I thought I would return the favor, and I'm so glad that I did. Gosh, it sounds like we have so much in common!!
First, I love your name, cause that my sister's name!!! Second, I totally understand where you are coming from on the money situation and how stressed you are! I am right there with you. We've been saving and saving for this trip, but it seems like everytime we get some saved, we end up having to spend some of it-for example, the DH needing a new suit. I know that's not his fault, and he hated having to buy one, but it's just one of those things!!
Next...I'm a curly girl, too!! I have been fighting this stuff all my life!!! I'm actually a member over at curlygirl.com as well, but I haven't had much success with the Curly Girl method! I may have to PM CurlyBlueEyes to see if she can offer and advice! So I feel you pain there too, sister!!
Lastly, about the doggies...we have 2 Basset Hounds, so I know how you feel about your babies. I consider Beagles and Bassets to be really close kin. My Dad actually has a Beagle as well, so I'm partial to them! I just love Shoeshine from Underdog...he was just the cutest!

Anyway...So I am totally excited for you! It's awesome that you were able to turn your 4-nighter into a 7-night. I think you will be so glad that you did. We've done both the 3 and 4 nights, and they are really short. I can't wait to try 7 nights for the first time, but I'm betting they will go fast as well. Time always flys when you're having fun, doesn't it?! I also LOVE your formal dress from Coldwater Creek...VERY cute!:thumbsup2

Anyway...I guess I've rambled enough, so I will stop here for now. But I am totally enjoying reading about your plans, and I can't wait to read more!!:thumbsup2

[cakesnjammom]

Hey there, Paige!!
I noticed the link in your siggie after you posted on my TR, so I thought I would return the favor, and I'm so glad that I did. Gosh, it sounds like we have so much in common!!
First, I love your name, cause that my sister's name!!! Second, I totally understand where you are coming from on the money situation and how stressed you are! I am right there with you. We've been saving and saving for this trip, but it seems like everytime we get some saved, we end up having to spend some of it-for example, the DH needing a new suit. I know that's not his fault, and he hated having to buy one, but it's just one of those things!!
Next...I'm a curly girl, too!! I have been fighting this stuff all my life!!! I'm actually a member over at curlygirl.com as well, but I haven't had much success with the Curly Girl method! I may have to PM CurlyBlueEyes to see if she can offer and advice! So I feel you pain there too, sister!!
Lastly, about the doggies...we have 2 Basset Hounds, so I know how you feel about your babies. I consider Beagles and Bassets to be really close kin. My Dad actually has a Beagle as well, so I'm partial to them! I just love Shoeshine from Underdog...he was just the cutest!

Anyway...So I am totally excited for you! It's awesome that you were able to turn your 4-nighter into a 7-night. I think you will be so glad that you did. We've done both the 3 and 4 nights, and they are really short. I can't wait to try 7 nights for the first time, but I'm betting they will go fast as well. Time always flys when you're having fun, doesn't it?! I also LOVE your formal dress from Coldwater Creek...VERY cute!:thumbsup2

Anyway...I guess I've rambled enough, so I will stop here for now. But I am totally enjoying reading about your plans, and I can't wait to read more!!:thumbsup2

hello missy....so glad to see you here!
we absolutely do have a lot in common...not to mention we are huge Georgia Bulldog Fans...go dawgs...and I am from Augusta! :yay:
you are so sweet...I have so enjoyed your pre-trippie too...I hated to read that you had to buy Mike a new suit...but that is awesome that he LOST weight!:thumbsup2 I know EXACTLY what you mean...spending money right before this cruise HURTS.
I look forward to your TR and wish you the greatest trip. Happy Anniversary! We went for our 11th anniversary last Nov. and did MVMCP...too fun!
Well keep us posted!!

We had one small "monkey-wrench" today...we cannot find our passporter pouch...cannot do a disney trip without it....we looked everywhere....I finally ordered another one...it simplifies things so much for us :3dglasses!!

[cakesnjammom]

We got an upgrade call from our TA! YAY. We took the paid upgrade for $150 total from a CAT 11 to a CAT 8!!! We are so SUPER excited. You all know I was hoping for that split bath! And now we get a port hole too :cool1: this will be a super new experience for dh and I, who have only cruised in an inside cabin and only cruised once for that matter :rotfl:

I sold some old gold today! And glad I did, extra money for the trip so not only are we taking the upgrade but we are adding MNSSHP back but dh is asking that we either do stingrays OR MNSSHP, not both so I will cancel the stingrays tonight! We had all much rather do the MNSSHP!

I have my final list of things to buy tomorrow...I was going today to get it all done and got so excited about the offer I came back home to look and see where I knew cabin location is!

Well hope everyone is well! popcorn::
My ds is wanting to borrow my laptop! So I guess I am signing off! :goodvibes

[JanDave]

Congrats on the upgrade. As I said on our cruise meet thread, I really like the sideways cabins and their location. When we got 50% off a DCL cruise because Hurricane Jean interrupted our DCL cruise in 2004, we chose a verandah but we were so disappointed as it was September and it was too hot for us to stay on the verandah. I'd love to get an upgrade to a porthole.

This week's Eastern cruise has turned into a western. Glad the captain decided to take the Magic to CC last Sunday as the ship won't be heading into the rolling waters of the Bahamas on Friday.

Have a great week everyone. No cruise docs here. Really don't need them, but I love getting them as a sign that the cruise is getting closer.

Cakesnjammom - wishing you a speedy recovery.

Jan

[cakesnjammom]

Here are some things I think I have learned...any DCL vets pipe in and voice your opinion if I am incorrect:

I plan NOT to take an alarm clock b/c I can mute the tv and turn it to a station that shows the time and if I need a wake up I can schedule a call!

I can get dramimine FREE on the ship if I run out of Bonine

DO not bring sand toys, use a kid's mickey plate instead from the boat

No need to pack clothes for dinner in my carry on if my luggage- if it does not show up in time...just wear what I have on (applies to whole family)

No need to RUSH to the port if I have the cabin I want! We will still get there in time for boarding early...like 11:30am! Will I still have a shot to get Palo brunch or high tea (none are avail. online)???

I can request a feather pillow and coat hangers from my cabin steward.

No need to bring water aboard, the water tastes fine on DCL...I am bringing canteens to fill.

Add some colored ribbon to luggage so it is easy to find and bring zip ties for luggage when in the hall on the last night??

Well let me know if I have any of this wrong....or you feel I should do something differently...this is my 1st DCL so I hope I got this right :cutie:

[gvivanco]

Here are some things I think I have learned...any DCL vets pipe in and voice your opinion if I am incorrect:

I plan NOT to take an alarm clock b/c I can mute the tv and turn it to a station that shows the time and if I need a wake up I can schedule a call!

I can get dramimine FREE on the ship if I run out of Bonine

DO not bring sand toys, use a kid's mickey plate instead from the boat

No need to pack clothes for dinner in my carry on if my luggage- if it does not show up in time...just wear what I have on (applies to whole family)

No need to RUSH to the port if I have the cabin I want! We will still get there in time for boarding early...like 11:30am! Will I still have a shot to get Palo brunch or high tea (none are avail. online)???

I can request a feather pillow and coat hangers from my cabin steward.

No need to bring water aboard, the water tastes fine on DCL...I am bringing canteens to fill.

Add some colored ribbon to luggage so it is easy to find and bring zip ties for luggage when in the hall on the last night??

Well let me know if I have any of this wrong....or you feel I should do something differently...this is my 1st DCL so I hope I got this right :cutie:




This is my first cruise, too, and I wondered about some of those very things. So thank you!! Good advice!! :flower3:

[kileybeth]

Paige! You go girl! You rock! Your list are so awesome!! :thumbsup2

I have a wretched back ache, to much going today, I really have to watch it and I promised myself I would not get on here when got home tonight. I was out with DH for a date night with a coupon and then a BJ's shopping trip (picked up 24 Sharpies for $12.99 for the pillow cases)as there was no food left in this house!

Anyway, I have email notifications when a new post comes into any of my subscibed threads. I read that latest list of yours on my blackberry on the way home and just grinned! Thank you again so much!

I am still just tickled with your upgrade and so happy for you all, that and MNSSHP too! woo hoo. You must be :cloud9:

I am so glad to hear my family is not the only one digging deep to make this cruise happen. I am so excited for each and everyone who gets to go but sometimes it is just extra special when you know what a big deal it is ya know?

On this end, my DH is finally starting to ask cruise questions and get a bit excited. (Well, as excited as he gets anyway). Did I have that pegged right or what? Three weeks out and now my family starts to ask the plan and ask questions!:sad2:

Started to bag up all our FE tonight and realized how much room they will take up, uh oh, gonna finish tomorrow so I can get this down. I have two cabins to ship stuff to so at least that helps a little bit! :rotfl: I also read someone who is shipping to hotel they are staying at night before. Might be an idea for me with our crowded car:idea:

Well, my back is screaming so it is off to bed for me. Can't wait to meet everyone. Lots of us posting over here, Hey cruise mates!

Nite! Kim

[gvivanco]

Paige! You go girl! You rock! Your list are so awesome!! :thumbsup2

I have a wretched back ache, to much going today, I really have to watch it and I promised myself I would not get on here when got home tonight. I was out with DH for a date night with a coupon and then a BJ's shopping trip (picked up 24 Sharpies for $12.99 for the pillow cases)as there was no food left in this house!

Anyway, I have email notifications when a new post comes into any of my subscibed threads. I read that latest list of yours on my blackberry on the way home and just grinned! Thank you again so much!

I am still just tickled with your upgrade and so happy for you all, that and MNSSHP too! woo hoo. You must be :cloud9:

I am so glad to hear my family is not the only one digging deep to make this cruise happen. I am so excited for each and everyone who gets to go but sometimes it is just extra special when you know what a big deal it is ya know?

On this end, my DH is finally starting to ask cruise questions and get a bit excited. (Well, as excited as he gets anyway). Did I have that pegged right or what? Three weeks out and now my family starts to ask the plan and ask questions!:sad2:

Started to bag up all our FE tonight and realized how much room they will take up, uh oh, gonna finish tomorrow so I can get this down. I have two cabins to ship stuff to so at least that helps a little bit! :rotfl: I also read someone who is shipping to hotel they are staying at night before. Might be an idea for me with our crowded car:idea:

Well, my back is screaming so it is off to bed for me. Can't wait to meet everyone. Lots of us posting over here, Hey cruise mates!

Nite! Kim



Kileybeth -sorry about your back pain. I hope you feel better soon!!

[UGAFan0829]

Hi again, Paige!
Congrats on the upgrade!!:banana: That's wonderful news. I know you are going to enjoy that split bath, and having a porthole too, is just awesome!:woohoo:

I had no idea about getting free Dramamine! I actually just went to CVS and bought some yesterday. We not had to use in the past, but I definitely don't want to be without it-just in case. Do you think Bonine works better though??

It looks like you've found some really great tips...thanks for sharing them with the rest of us...there are several that I had no idea about!!

[kileybeth]

Here are some things I think I have learned...any DCL vets pipe in and voice your opinion if I am incorrect:

I plan NOT to take an alarm clock b/c I can mute the tv and turn it to a station that shows the time and if I need a wake up I can schedule a call!

I can get dramimine FREE on the ship if I run out of Bonine

DO not bring sand toys, use a kid's mickey plate instead from the boat

No need to pack clothes for dinner in my carry on if my luggage- if it does not show up in time...just wear what I have on (applies to whole family)

No need to RUSH to the port if I have the cabin I want! We will still get there in time for boarding early...like 11:30am! Will I still have a shot to get Palo brunch or high tea (none are avail. online)???

I can request a feather pillow and coat hangers from my cabin steward.

No need to bring water aboard, the water tastes fine on DCL...I am bringing canteens to fill.

Add some colored ribbon to luggage so it is easy to find and bring zip ties for luggage when in the hall on the last night??

Well let me know if I have any of this wrong....or you feel I should do something differently...this is my 1st DCL so I hope I got this right :cutie:





Okay let me see, here is what I think may be correctted information.

Not Dramamine, but 25mg of Meclazine, which is the generic of branded Bonine as I understand it. Same effect mostly of dramamine though, just no side effect of drowsiness. Either way, I also stocked up as it is pretty cheap here. But nice to know they have something on board if we run out!

I have also read here on the DIS, no more Mickey plates, just paper plates now and in WDW! I am sooo sad! Our collection stands at around 25-30 right now and I am so sad to see this fun free souvie gone. Hope someone is wrong big time. think I may post the question out on the general board since I read it a while ago.

Otherwise, as always, such great tips.

[cakesnjammom]

Kim...thanks for the tip! I hope they are wrong too! I am so glad you and your dh had a date...so nice :lovestruc and you have a girl's night tonight, have fun! I hope your back is feeling better...icy hot or biofreeze are my favs. Even got some patches for dh to pack...he likes tigerbalm. Oh and Kim been meaning to post that the passporter pouch is a pouch that hangs around your neck and holds all your stuff...like KTTW cards..etc. It keeps us so organized and we feel so safe in the parks and on rides etc with it...we could not do disney trip without it...here is the link:
http://www.passporterstore.com/store/0966899437.aspx

Missy...glad I could contribute...I have all these things rolling around in my brain and I forget to verify them :rotfl2:I could be SUPER wrong...like the Mickey plates!:surfweb: The one thing I have to be right about is the extension cord...3 prongs required and packed - check! I need that ground on the 3 prong - so good news!:thumbsup2

Just ordered pizza so I can DIS! And dh is right by me watching the Little League World Series!! He watches it every year. Got tons of errands done today and really feel so prepared :)...I have already packed our daily meds even :eek:! All in the seven days holder...w/ copies of the RXs just in case!

I know ya'll are going to think I am a mean momma but I have to get dd to limit the number of costumes/princess dresses she is bringing! They are so poo-ffy and take up so much room...she definately wants to bring Jasmine (which I am relieved by because it does not have 18 layers of toole):rotfl:so I told her just one more. My MIL made us all "pirate" night outfits and she made dd 2 mickey dresses and 2 mickey shirts and she has a formal night dress and a semi-night dress and we have lifestyle jeans and shirts...whew! where am I going to put it all (I know you all feel the same way)...I have been CONSIDERING mailing the costumes, I capitalize it because I have not figured that part out yet :lmao:.



Well post, post, post so I know ya'll are listening (reading)! I will be back soon.

[gvivanco]

Hey Paige! Thanks for the info on the passporter pouch! I would have thought maybe that wouldn't be super useful, so I'm glad to know they are! I will probably order one now.

Also, I was wondering about the jeans thing. I was thinking during the day, we'll be in shorts and bathing suits, etc. and at night we'll be dressing up, or just casual sun dresses. I had thought about jeans, but wasn't sure anyone would wear them and when. When do you think y'all would wear jeans? Maybe to one of the casual dinners?

[inmyis]

Hi again to Paige and all. We are really starting to get excited about the trip. DW was in a minor fender bender early this summer and hurt her foot. So, we are not going to be able to golf before or after cruise:sad2:. We may do Typhoon Lagoon one day and just chill at the resort pools, tragedy that it would be. ;)

We have been on three other DCL cruises and have not seen that many, if any, people wearing jeans in the Dining Rooms. We have seen them on Decks, at Topsiders, and in the bars later on. It is always a personal choice but would not want anyone to be self-conscious. Make the decision that fits your family. Also, I am sure your DD will be very excited dressing up so much. princess:

Only 23 days until we fly out!:dance3:

[gvivanco]

Hi again to Paige and all. We are really starting to get excited about the trip. DW was in a minor fender bender early this summer and hurt her foot. So, we are not going to be able to golf before or after cruise:sad2:. We may do Typhoon Lagoon one day and just chill at the resort pools, tragedy that it would be. ;)

We have been on three other DCL cruises and have not seen that many, if any, people wearing jeans in the Dining Rooms. We have seen them on Decks, at Topsiders, and in the bars later on. It is always a personal choice but would not want anyone to be self-conscious. Make the decision that fits your family. Also, I am sure your DD will be very excited dressing up so much. princess:

Only 23 days until we fly out!:dance3:


Thanks for the jeans info! I would just have thought it would be too hot to wear jeans anywhere during the day??

Can't wait to meet everyone!!

[cakesnjammom]

If you post it, they will come....:lmao:
I have not been feeling well...but better today and decided to update this pre-TR...

looks like my cruise docs are on their way to me (they have to go to my TA 1st) I am so excited to receive them and see what they are all about.

I am getting really nervous about the cruise since I do not feel so well..but I have to keep telling myself, "one day at a time." After reading several great TR's I am also concerned about motion sickness...my kids and I are prone to it :eek: and I just hope I am prepared enough....I have cruised RCCL before butit has been 12 years ago...and a lot has changed since then medically for me. I took dramimine on that cruise and I was fine. I have Bonine for the kids and I...wonder if I should add sea bands and dramimine too?:confused3 it is so hard to know. any advice is appreciated...my ds and dd have been known to get car sick.

Everything I had planned to do has been marked off my list...except stopping the mai...cannot order that this far out. But really I think I could be packed tonight to leave (if I felt better)....21 days too soon for the cruise :laughing:.

Got my MNSSHP tickets in the mail and my Disney Rewards card! We scheduled the Wishes Dessert Party for the MNSSHP night...really excited because it will be a break for us in the middle of things + gives us a prime spot for the fireworks and parades and maybe we can stay later that night if we take a breather (my thoughts anyway)....I am keeping up with the MNSSHP tip/tricks/secret post so I know what is available the later we stay. My kids and dh are night owls...so mo problems there.

Our meets board has been super busy and that makes things more fun too!
My dh is getting more involved now...the fact that we are keeping someone on our FE list that has not posted since '08 is driving him crazy...he is an engineer and things that do not seem logical...he just hates to see someone miss out if this family does not respond. He is a super NICE guy:lovestruc. I know that no one wants the family to be left out because they DID sign up for the FE orginally...I can see both sides!

We are trying to get something special together for two children that a cruiser on our meets group posted about...beaten, burned and left for dead...they are foster kids now and may never see WDW. My dh was a foster child for a bit...through military families because his father was a single NAVY :sail: parent and when he went overseas my dh would have to be placed with a family....usually people that wanted the additional income more than an extra child! I have extra DISNEY MNSSHP pirate: bags that I got at the Disney Store so we may load them up with treats and such.

Just trying to stay positive on this end...and believe that I will feel better before our cruise! I try to keep up on the boards popcorn::it is so exciting to hear everyone's input and questions. i especially love Western Caribbean TR's w/ pics. The pics just make me connect ::yes::to the report so much more.

Well I shall post more soon! Take care!

Magnets for the door are dh's job....they are one thing that we do not have done :rotfl2:I have picked out some and emailed them over to his computer!

[cakesnjammom]

WOWIE KAPOWIE this trip is getting close!
We have our magnets done...well almost...one or two more to cut out!
Worked on a little extra FE gift for my group today. :grouphug:
We made Mickey tie-dyed tees for our embarkation day...no one will miss us in the port, that is for sure...

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/th_mickeyshirts.jpg (http://s128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/?action=view&current=mickeyshirts.jpg)

we wore similar shirts that I bought to WDW in 2007
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/th_IMG_0093-1rev0.jpg (http://s128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/?action=view&current=IMG_0093-1rev0.jpg)
and boy did we get a ton of compliments...not to mention my dh always wears Mickey ears on DISNEY trips and he has aloha ears that are very unusual and he gets stopped about them all the time.

I need to make me a magnet like this!!!
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/DIS-cakesnjammom.jpg but have not yet printed it!!

well I have been lurking the boards today looking for a MNSSHP touring plan that includes Wishes Dessert Party and kids activites....I want my face painted...that is a first and I know we will have to get in line early for that.
I made BBB ressies for dd at 3pm DTD but think I am going to cancel because we have just decided it is too hot to mess with costumes...halloween shirts and face painting it will be (yeah right...we all know that could change at a moment's notice :rolleyes1) but for this 5 minute posting it is "our current plan"; we have enough to pack...and I am aso afraid that the kids will get uncomfortable :rolleyes:
If you notice anything from my pre-TR you will see that I do tend to change my mind quite a bit:laughing: and as the primary planner of us i take that right :rotfl2:
well I am going to post our pirate outfits when I get a chance to take some pics...house is quiet so I am making the most of it :snooty: dh took kiddos to the pool...what a nice daddy.

if you are reading this pre-TR because you are planning a cruise too...I would suggest figuring one gift per stateroom...instead of person...much easier to keep control of...I am doing 2 per stateroom and I wonder would you pass them out at the same time or different times? :confused3 also do you put your DIS name on the gifts? One has my DIS name and one does not? hmmm

[cakesnjammom]

ordered dh and I Birki's for our trip and they are still not here....hoping they come or I will be barefoot.

the ladies on our meets thread say they love switch flops and boy are they cute...but my WIDE foot will not go into those....wish they could!

Our PP pouch has not arrived yet either....hmmmm
I better have talk with the mail person...you don't think they are wearing Birki's and a Passporter Pouch around to deliver the mail do 'ya? :lmao:

And no cruise docs here yet...they go to the TA 1st so I do not expect them Monday or Tuesday like other cruisers on our ship...but it is a great feeling to know they have been mailed!!!:woohoo:

[so_oregon]

I am so sorry you have not been feeling well.....I have friends who swear by the bands and others who take the pills for seasickness....I haven't been seasick yet, so I don't know which one will work better for you....

Am glad YOU are organized....I spent time this a.m. trying to fill in names of kids with ages and grownup names (special surprise for the grownups)....and realized how DIS-organized I was.....with the FE stuff, packing, etc.


If you post it, they will come....:lmao:
I have not been feeling well...but better today and decided to update this pre-TR...

looks like my cruise docs are on their way to me (they have to go to my TA 1st) I am so excited to receive them and see what they are all about.

I am getting really nervous about the cruise since I do not feel so well..but I have to keep telling myself, "one day at a time." After reading several great TR's I am also concerned about motion sickness...my kids and I are prone to it :eek: and I just hope I am prepared enough....I have cruised RCCL before butit has been 12 years ago...and a lot has changed since then medically for me. I took dramimine on that cruise and I was fine. I have Bonine for the kids and I...wonder if I should add sea bands and dramimine too?:confused3 it is so hard to know. any advice is appreciated...my ds and dd have been known to get car sick.

Everything I had planned to do has been marked off my list...except stopping the mai...cannot order that this far out. But really I think I could be packed tonight to leave (if I felt better)....21 days too soon for the cruise :laughing:.

Got my MNSSHP tickets in the mail and my Disney Rewards card! We scheduled the Wishes Dessert Party for the MNSSHP night...really excited because it will be a break for us in the middle of things + gives us a prime spot for the fireworks and parades and maybe we can stay later that night if we take a breather (my thoughts anyway)....I am keeping up with the MNSSHP tip/tricks/secret post so I know what is available the later we stay. My kids and dh are night owls...so mo problems there.

Our meets board has been super busy and that makes things more fun too!
My dh is getting more involved now...the fact that we are keeping someone on our FE list that has not posted since '08 is driving him crazy...he is an engineer and things that do not seem logical...he just hates to see someone miss out if this family does not respond. He is a super NICE guy:lovestruc. I know that no one wants the family to be left out because they DID sign up for the FE orginally...I can see both sides!

We are trying to get something special together for two children that a cruiser on our meets group posted about...beaten, burned and left for dead...they are foster kids now and may never see WDW. My dh was a foster child for a bit...through military families because his father was a single NAVY :sail: parent and when he went overseas my dh would have to be placed with a family....usually people that wanted the additional income more than an extra child! I have extra DISNEY MNSSHP pirate: bags that I got at the Disney Store so we may load them up with treats and such.

Just trying to stay positive on this end...and believe that I will feel better before our cruise! I try to keep up on the boards popcorn::it is so exciting to hear everyone's input and questions. i especially love Western Caribbean TR's w/ pics. The pics just make me connect ::yes::to the report so much more.

Well I shall post more soon! Take care!

Magnets for the door are dh's job....they are one thing that we do not have done :rotfl2:I have picked out some and emailed them over to his computer!

[hannahguad]

Hi Paige!
Just stopped in to see how your planning is coming:surfweb:..

Hope you are feeling better, I know it is probably easier said than done when your told to take it easy----BUT DO IT ANYWAY!!:goodvibes HAHA!! You will need all the rest you can get for this trip! It does take a lot of energy to flip sides when tanning on Castaway Cay!!:yay::cheer2:

I wanted to just put out there, and I am sure other's may not agree or agree, but the one tip that I actually got from the 'Dis' is bring an over the door organizer! I :love: mine! I didn't just keep shoes in it-we kept sunscreen, medication, toiletries, and other small things I didn't want to lose. I actually had 2 last time... A small pharmacy on one side and the other was other stuff. (My daughter can only take certain OTC medication, so I have to bring a small pharmacy for just in case whenever we travel.) Now my DM didn't use hers at all, but she was only one person... HTH someone!:upsidedow

See ya reallllllll soooonnnnn...

[cakesnjammom]

hello! too happy...got our birki's and passporter pouch today! YAY!

since I mentioned J's ears in my last post I had to post a pic of him doing the WDW Happy dance @ the Poly *see below:

we are getting close now! :woohoo:no cruise docs yet! :headache: like I have mentioned they have to go to my TA 1st (one stinky part of using a TA!!) since I am considering becoming a TA that is a hard statement to make :rolleyes1 I know they like to verify everything but I think it would be important for the cruiser to get them sooner than later...a real exciting thing!! ;)

I am also posting a pic of my kids sitting w/ goofy in town square...they really also died laughing when he "talked" :rotfl:

Our Disney memories are so magical...I need to post some castle pics from MVMCP...it was the 1st year they added twinkle lights...oh so gorgeous...and we took an adult only vacation that time...got to do those things you never get to do w/ the kids (sit down a minute) :rotfl2:a:rotfl2:and say "stop do not do that, stand over here", give me a minute to look at this map would 'ya? :laughing: well I did say those things but at least my dh listened :rotfl2:
well got my laundry ziplock bag packed today :laundy: free and clear detergent, bounce, downy WR, febreeze, hooks, a lint roller, and a lil sewing kit! Also got my OTC meds, toothbrushes (to throw away at the end) and razors packed, working on packing my hair products in little bottles...you know this curly girl has to have her products. Everybody says they want curly hair until they figure out it is like caring for a cashmere sweater (fragile/delicate). DS's shirts/shorts are packed and did a SWIM bag today (rash guards/suits) for kids. they have their new Disney pj's for goofy's pj party that they are looking SO forward too! :yay:
dd starts school full time tomorrow (staggered entry days prior) so I will even have more time!:eek:

getting my hair highlighted tomorrow....then back to the doc on thurs.
I think we have got some things figured out....allergic reaction to lisonipril. now if we can find a replacement for it I hope to be on the road to feeling better. :dance3:
we have several cruisers that are dealing with medical issues and I so feel for us all...it is such an added stress to wonder if you are going to feel well on a trip of a lifetime :confused:. I am thinking of each of them and sending pixie dust their way and prayers too :littleangel:

my son got an email today from another boy on our cruise (he will be so excited) but he has not gotten to read it yet...they were swamped with homework today....yes already! luckily I am dealing with two very "family trip" friendly teachers!:cool2: I admire all you homeschoolers...the effort you put in and the great schedule you can allow your children---I hope they know how lucky they are! :flower3:

well my current worried are getting my little desk fan in my bag...cannot sleep without it for a 8+ nights.:sad2:

well all my best to you! Missy (UGAFan) thinking of you and your trip----this weekend :cheer2:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/jjsears.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/IMG_0446rev0.jpg

[UGAFan0829]

working on packing my hair products in little bottles...you know this curly girl has to have her products. Everybody says they want curly hair until they figure out it is like caring for a cashmere sweater (fragile/delicate).

well my current worried are getting my little desk fan in my bag...cannot sleep without it for a 8+ nights.:sad2:

well all my best to you! Missy (UGAFan) thinking of you and your trip----this weekend :cheer2:



Hey, Paige!
Those pics are great! I especially love the Disney Dance!!!!
Girl, I know what you mean about curly hair...I am right there with ya!
My DSIL was talking about taking her little fan with her as well. I hope you figure out a way to get it packed!!
And thanks for thinking of us.:flower3:

[cakesnjammom]

Hey, Paige!
Those pics are great! I especially love the Disney Dance!!!!
Girl, I know what you mean about curly hair...I am right there with ya!
My DSIL was talking about taking her little fan with her as well. I hope you figure out a way to get it packed!!
And thanks for thinking of us.:flower3:

I am so glad to see you...boy the excitement must be really upon you! Have a great, great time!
The Disney Dance! He is so funny...really loves Disney...I am lucky. Ears and all he is always ready to roll...I plan, he drives w/ his ears on of course!
Cannot wait to hear all about it!

[cakesnjammom]

hello lurkers :goodvibes! I am assuming I have some so I am going to keep posting.....speak up and say HI ::yes::!

I have been updating my GPS (TOMTOM) today and adding the important addresses we will need!:idea:
We added an extra night on our PC hotel stay...dh wants to drive the whole way, instead of just to Jacksonville the 1st night. He wants to "get there" and be able to settle in before the HP! pirate: So after further discussion last evening we added on Thursday night to our "rewards points = free" Residence Inn ressie! YES he is finally getting the spirit!:cheer2:
One thing that has been bothering me though----I have been inquiring on the boards as to how many shuttles actually run from RI to the port...I finally called again this a.m. to ask and it is ONE per CRUISE...DCL leaves at 10am...in case anyone else was hoping for a later start like me :rolleyes:! So dh will take us and drop us off and then get a cab...UNLESS we are too excited to sleep! :hyper: which will probably be the case!

Got highlights yesterday...light, bright and damn near white :sad2:...well not really but I am "brightened" for the cruise...this fair skin needed a little pop of color. The older I get the darker my hair gets :headache:

A friend and I met at StarBucks yesterday to chat and she was so funny - an experienced cruiser and we were talking about our plans...I told her that we really do not have the money to upgrade at the port so there was really no sense in us racing the clock to get there...:hyper2: They have done verandah's and we have not and she said that a balcony really improves the cruise 110%...get to the port and ask!:snooty: But I am just SO thankful we were offered a paid upgrade and happy to be in an Cat 8 for the additional money~:upsidedow I really like that we will be on deck 5 too...read good things for couples w/ kids staying close to the clubs!

You all know how fast the costs SNOWBALL :teacher: so I just have to say NO somewhere...yeah right! :lmao: I guess we are going to play it by ear and just see what happens!:listen:

Health update: feeling better...thanks for those of you that have sent me well wishes :flower3:---so kind. We have found the culprite...a blood pressure med I take...so now just have to get a new med and hope for the best. Also have to have a liver ultrasound tomorrow - uuugghhh! And I hope to get the ANA results tomorrow too. Have all of our medical forms ready to take to dr. w/ me so i can get them signed and faxed!!

Well I am planning on ironing some today for packing and getting all the documents in the same place :genie:.

What are you up too? What's going on? What's happening?

Thinking of all my fellow cruisers that are traveling SOON :drive:and preparing for weddings :bride::groom:! PIXIE DUST to you all pixiedust:

[disneyfinatics]

Paige,
Make sure you get another picture of the kids w/ goofy. I did one in 2002 & then made them do one in '08. I love having the comparison of how tiny they were. I wish I had done some in between, but live & learn. You haven't seen pale until you've seen me. If the light hits my legs just right it's worse than a mirror in sunlight!! The sad thing is that my mom is Italian, my older sister stole all the dark skin genes & left my little sis & I to look like ghosts.:hmghost:

Shelly

[cakesnjammom]

yay Shelly..so happy to see you!:thumbsup2
that is a great idea w/ goofy...I am going to get one this trip...thanks! they change so quickly.
I considered getting a spray on tan for the ship but it wears off so quickly and the pools really make it fade (which for some reason some DISers find funny)...I decided I could just be WHITE...although my "fluff" really looks better when it is tan :lmao:
My ds and dd are the same as you and your sister....my dd got all the tanned genes (asian) and my ds got all the albino genes. My MIL is Japanese so dd got the dark hair and skin....lucky her!

so glad you popped in! i am lurking around the boards...i should be doing something more constructive....:rotfl2:

[cakesnjammom]

Yay! We are doing the documents dance :cool1:! They came today!
Just got finished working with dh, got all his clothes packed...One or two items I need to add after wash but for the most part: dh DONE!
Also got ds and dd packed : kids DONE! same for wash but ready to roll once I complete laundry tomorrow.
Now for me....I really hate this part...I have a stack of things I want to take in a pile but I need to iron and see what I can mix and match...and get shoes and (costume) jewelry set aside. Mostly I will be wearing my Birki's so I am so trying to get my feet used to wearing them...the 3 straps on top hit me in a "NEW" place so I am working on it! If lots of walking expected...it will have to be or my "wolkies" of course---love 'em or my kicks.

Got documents all packed up...put the mail on hold....sent out emergency contact information to family members.

Our poor doggies, Daisy and Lily, will be "missing the Magic" and I have got them all taken care of!
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/daisychristmas.jpg
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/lilyinthesnow.jpg

SO I would venture to say for "2 weeks" out we are doing well. We have a list to make. Here are pics from 2007...my babies have grown so much!
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/bellesstorytime.jpg
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/facepaint.jpg
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/ant2.jpg
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/cakesnjammom/antwdw.jpg

[cakesnjammom]

just a lazy day here...my new meds are giving me quite an adjustment phase! dh is so mad...UGA football was not on tv here today and it was supposed to be on ABC. so he has been complaining and upset that he cannot watch the game, he was looking so forward to it.
he took the kiddos to the pool...dd was so excited! she had been asking all day to take a friend to the pool....she coming in and out...in and out...all day.
we still have electronics, shoes, etc to pack. but we have got 2 large suitcases loaded! a friend is going to let us borrow their netbook for our trip...just need a way to down load pics...so it should be great.
I watched the Magic leave the port today....bye Missy and Mike have a great trip!
I have been lurking around today looking for MNSSHP posts...map, photos etc from last night...not as much as I expected...attenders are probably worn out from all the fun!
making dh a happy birthday banner....it tuned out very cute...need to get ribbon to tie it all together.
also have all the paper laid out and sorted to make autograph books but have not felt well enough to go to the office and sit to print them...I prefer my laptop in the comfort of my bed (LAZY) I know but I feel as if I have concrete weights tied to me.
dh ordered pizza and wings for the game that was not on the tv...so I guess we are "snacking" on that thru the evening!
from the looks of it (orbitz) our boat is not full so maybe that means that there will be more fairy dust on its way. I am going to inquire at the port but I really am super happy with our cabin! Yes a balcony would be ICING/gravy but I am completely happy! I will me cruisin' w/ Mickey!:cool1:
Post...talk to me. Hope to hear from some of you...

[gvivanco]

Hey, I am enjoying reading your pre trippie, as always!

I hope your adjustments on your meds gets better! At least they found the earlier problem!

I was lurking around and found some posts on packing cubes, so I ordered one set. It was a good deal from what I read others paid. It was a set of 3 for $27 total. Shipping was free. People seem to love them! So, we'll see.

I also jumped on board (so to speak) and joined the second FE list. I already have all the kiddies bags done! I wasn't really sure what to do for the teens/adults. I am still looking/thinking, but for now, it's a big baggie of candy, so far. Any ideas would be great!

It sounds like you've gotten a lot done! Good for you! I feel pretty good, just have to get the clothing situation organized a bit. Got all the girls costumes packed up. They took up a whole big suitcase (although, I know I can fit more stuff here and there in it).

Anyway, just wanted to check in and say hi! Yes, we are reading, and love your reports!!! :love:

I hope you feel better soon with the new meds.

I can't believe it's less than 2 WEEKS!!!! :dance3:

Gretchen

[cakesnjammom]

gretchen - packing cubes....you just do not know how I have had to fight myself not bite the bullet and order them....I have read the reports of how organized they keep the luggage. I think you did get a heck of a deal....did you get them at ebags.com?

I will think about the FE gift items and email you....I am sure you are keeping it a secret :rolleyes1 I have had lots of ideas and things I said...I should have done this or that! How many kids are there on the 2nd one? i think your girls are going to be so happy that you joined! do you have a Micheals Craft store near you?

thanks for the well wishes. I feel like such a WHINER but it is all I can think about. Will I feel good? It causes me so much panic...and while we think we have found the problem I am still having odd symptoms...scary! but thanks for listening to me complain....I am sorry to be a downer. Just sucks to plan a trip of a lifetime and wonder if you will be able to participate. :headache:

seems like I get a "package" in the mail everyday...my last one that arrived was the potty bags. I have a fear of public restrooms (my kids touch everything) so my "on the go potty" is a lifesaver...not to mention that my dh hates to stop every time our ds (tiny bladder) has to go. so now the potty liners are here and we are all set in that department.
waiting on a bra and panties for me now to arrive. TMI :lmao:

we borrowed a garment bag from our friends and I am praying all of our hang up/dress stuff will fit in it! have not attempted that yet...all the clothes are hanging together in the dry cleaning bags ;)

doing wash now so I can get the last few items put into the bags and then I do not have to worry about what they wear....if it is in your drawer then wear it...keeps me from having to keep up with each piece for the next two weeks! :laundy:

After StarBucks (love that passion tea) went and got my car washed this a.m. (outside wash) dh and I are going to tackle the inside when it cools off late afternoon this week...that way it will be shining like a new penny....clean cars travel so much better. We have to go on a day trip next Sunday so we will be prepared for that too! :cool2:

hope everyone is looking forward to Labor Day! some friends are coming over to go to the pool with us tomorrow and that is about it HERE!

[cakesnjammom]

friends coming over tomorrow so I am making homemade sloppy joes so I can put all the stuff in the slow cooker tomorrow before we leave for the pool! sloppy joes, cole slaw, pasta salad and baked beans!! kids will be so excited to have everyone over!

[kileybeth]

Hi Paige,

I've been keeping up/ catching up today and just finished catching up with you and yours. Your pics are so great. I have to tell you, I love that room the kiddos are sitting in with the doggie. Love it, you have a nice decorating style. I love decorating and home design. Oh yes, the kids are adorable of course::cutie:

I am so sorry you are not feeling 100%. I live at about 75% all the time and it is very frustrating. I so relate to worrying about not being able to enjoy this huge vacation we haved spent so long planning/dreaming about. So today both my DS17 and myself have nasty toothaches, UGH, what next I think everyday. I think I will just have to live on acetaphinomin and ibuprophin and screw worrying about my liver for a week. :sad2:

I am an insulin dependant diabetic for 15 years after being undiagnosed for 15 years before that. . .how I ended up with 6 kids:rolleyes1 due to a bout of acute pancreatitus at 15 years of age as a perfectly healthy 105 pound cheerleader who never drank an ounce of anything alcoholic. I am one of those strange ones whose diagnosises never match my symtoms so I sooo feel for you trying to pin the problem down.

Sorry! TMI?!

Your labor day plans sound awesome. Think I will invite myself. I make a mean marinated chicken breast and some awesome lemon bars. . .but your menu sounds so good to me.

I gotta tell you, I am super envious of your ability to be so organized and ready for this cruise. I just feel a total wreck about getting it all done! I just keep plugging away. The only thing that has really got me :scared1: doublly so:scared1: is fitting it all in/on our car. There is just so much stuff with formal clothes and snorkle stuff and OMG:scared1:the FE stuff! Where in the world will it all go?! Heaven forbid we buy anything extra to bring home!

funny about the garment bag. I was looking at them today in target, one on clearance for $49, I just HAVE to stop spending someplace. :idea: I need a friend to borrow one from. I was only in there to return two bathing suits for Ds17 who just told me his does not fit:sad2: when do you think he might have told me that if I had not checked? On the ship?? Anywho, I walked out with a 3 more shirts (2 for DH and one for DS17)and bathing suit bottom for DD14. :guilty:

OH my goodness, I am trying to type while my kiddos listen to a Disney greatest hits cd on here, I just typed it's a small small world and had to go back and erase it then thought about how only a fellow DISSER could find that funny!

I'm off to tuck the little ones in to bed and get back to suitcases and list! You inspire me girl!

[cakesnjammom]

kim- you are too funny...I DO feel your pain! I cannot imagine one more person to pack for...much less 2 more! give yourself a TON of credit :thumbsup2.
I hate to complain all the time but my biggest stress is feeling ok! i am sending MAGIC pixie dust your way pixiedust:! catch it! and use it for good for feeling good...if that only worked as well as it sounded right! my poor, poor dh must be so sick of my complaining and panic :rolleyes:! I keep telling him I am going to ruin this trip I have worked so hard to plan. sounds like you are like me with all the doc appts! I am sick of it!

we are so lucky to have friends who have cruised DCL before...not only for their knowledge but their garment bag too!:lmao:she is just way more laid back than I am (she had to empty the bag from their May cruise for me to borrow :rotfl2:) so she thinks I am NUTS to be packed this far in advance...she keeps saying when do you leave??? yes steph - I know I have OCPD!

I thought we had my flushings/burns figured out but today....they started back again:headache: so please pray that I will get some answers! :furious: my ANA test was negative which is a BLESSING :littleangel:! I think I forgot to mention that...I had a liver scan Thursday and a GALLON of blood drawn for tests!:faint:

well sorry to ramble....I am just so happy to see your post, thanks for checking in! I know how busy everyone is!
thanks regarding tomorrow's menu...it will be good - I think...sure BRING your chicken breast on over and lemon bars too...YUMMO! the more, the merrier ::yes:: just as long as I can stay in my comfy clothes (I will change out of my jammies tomorrow, I hope!)
oh and thanks for the decorating compliments, so kind. yes that is the living room downstairs and at the time dh was replacing our stairs with hardwood stairs so they really look beat up :rolleyes2...but that carpet on the stairs had to go...2 kids and 2 dawgs, lordy! hardwoods are so much easier...just steam 'em and go!
well off to finish up the wash :laundy: keep postin' as you have time!

[kileybeth]

oh Paige, I hear ya! any results on the liver scan yet? I am due for one and as the bad patient I am, I am putting it off on purpose until after the cruise so I can not be told, you are to sick to travel! Every few days I switch to gallons of water and let all the other liquids go, no fun at all.

Giving blood, I am immune to that at least, I know the girls by name it seems after our months of testing for pregnancy, then premmie, then the diabetes. I'll give you my arm in my sleep, and then say "oh, only 8 tubes today, how nice, have a good day!" :laughing: The pits was watching my 4 pound baby girl struggle and yet not have enough strength to cry when she was stuck over 100 times in 3 weeks time. That was nearly impossible, my DH could not even go after a while, it upset him to much.

have you spent any time (something tells me YOU have, checking out your symptoms online, try googling them up and stuff? Amazing what you can find. I am so sorry you are having the flushings again, just sounds so painful.:hug:

The carpet in our home is 8 years old, new construction. We paid to upgrade padding (really did extend the life by about 3 years) but went with only one grade up from builder grade b/c of cost (lots of sq footage) and it is really getting bad! We moved in thinking our youngest was our "baby" and she was 6 at the time. . .no more baby stuff . . .what do they say? Man plans and God laughs? Anyway, 2 more littles later. . .:upsidedow the daily wear and tear has caught up to us. Thankfully most of my first floor is harwood but our back steps, I am just sooo embarrassed! And the kids constant bedroom shuffle has done nothing to help those rooms:rolleyes:

Back to the cruise, I just rechecked our rate at the Country Inn and Suites and it came down again (woo=hoo) so I just rebooked and cancelled the old rate. I am going on other Dissers info that I can leave the car w/o the cruise package parking booked so long as we don't all use the shuttle. Getting a little nervous about this. Shirley up in the FAQ about Port Canaveral says not. . .I suppose the world will not end if I have to pay port parking but it would not be a good way to start the week ya know?

good chatting, thanks for keeping things movin' over on the yahoo group. I can barely figure it all out but keep posting anyway! :rotfl:

Oh!! one more thing. We lurk and post on similar threads and I happen to catch your question about wearing jeans. I am totally relaxing about it. What is th eworst that can happen ya know? We eat in Topsideres? My favorite "dressy pants" are actually a trouser type pair of blue jeans. And I'm not buying it is "to hot for denim" Yeah, I run super hot but any good construction worker will tell you, denim keeps you cooler than most other fabrics or shorts when you are trying to avoid both sun and heat. My DS17, Cameron, will be sporting jeans every night (and most days as well) I believe, he did let me buy a black pair of jeans to wear on formal night with a nice shirt IF I don't make him tuck the shirt in. That was a decent compromise actually so I've determined to be fine with it! And DD14 loves jeans, but she does have some capris she is wearing to dinner most nights. I was even stressing over tshirts but collar shirts just don't happen so much in this family. :confused3

So you be in "good company" or maybe not so good??? :rotfl:

< Insert Big Sigh Here>

[cakesnjammom]

I am so glad you mention the jeans thing...thank you...I read in one of my books jeans were acceptable at dinner...then someone posted they were not seen much...well we are a jeans family to so I will be bringing some. I do have to admit from that one person's comments I have changed our lifestyle portrait outfits from jeans to slacks. one good thing about my kids being younger...they do not care...dd is just dying to wear princess dresses!

man I cannot even imagine my tiny baby being stuck like that...poor angel, it would have killed both of us too...I have gotten pretty used to it myself (a big chicken i am) but this last time that girl was a vampire...my arm is so bruised...you know sometimes you get one that is still learning! once when j was a baby he had to have blood drawn and good glory it killed me...he is a very dramatic child (do not know where that come from :lmao:) he screamed and I cried! what a pair.

I plan on washing Monday night or Tuesday and we will be repeating lots of things....I also have my frabreeze packed. I packed thru Tuesday for everyone and them we can rotate things through the week. dh is a night owl so he will be more than happy to do wash for me...he keeps me going :love:
I hope to get the liver results Tuesday! I have a great doc butbecause I have such a short time frame to work with I find myself extremely irritated :headache: I know she can tell :rolleyes1

friends of ours from home (GA) are coming to stay with us the weekend after we get home...we are going to a concert...and my house it ok but not where I like it when company is coming. we painted our downstairs and re-did our front door....but I just have to let it go...do not feel like it! I guess they will still love us :rotfl:or stay in a hotel next time!:rotfl2:so do not get me started on carpets....just cleaned all of ours upstairs and I will be fit to be tied to say Lily (our little one) peed in my dd's room....now I have got to get the handheld steamer and go to it...I put some capture down an:thumbsup2d I am waiting for it to absorb before I treat it. She always does STUPID stuff like that...I keep telling her she is going to the sausage factory....she doesn't believe me. arghhh!

well my thoughts are with you until we meet on the MAGIC! know I am in your corner.....take care of you! so glad to chat! here is hoping pixie dust is covering us all far and WIDE :tinker::tinker:
ps here is the receipe to the sloppy joes...I love stuff I can put in the crock pot! Try it!
http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1599544

[kileybeth]

you know I should not still be on here!!!!

But this was so funny, that is the sloppy joe recipe I use!!! :rotfl:

[JanDave]

Cakesnjammom and Kileybeth: :grouphug: to both of you. Hope you are both doing well. I have been on methotrexate for the past 8-10 weeks for sarcoid of the lung. I was diagnosed 12 years ago and pretty much asymptomatic until the past 1.5 years. I preferred trying methotrexate than the standard protocol - prednisone. I have gotten past the nausea but the fatigue is sometimes overwhelming. I am scheduled for a pulmonary function test this Friday, then see my doc the Friday after the cruise. Hopefully, the PFT will show improvement with the methotrexate so I can avoid, at least temporarily, prednisone. I have to have monthly liver and CBC tests and so far, I've passed with flying colors.

I know, this is probably TMI. I am determined not to let my chronic lung disease get the best of me - physically and mentally.

On a brighter note, I am beginning the precruise laundry. Hopefully, I'll have everything ready to go in my suitcase by next Sunday. As I have previously posted, even though this is my 12th DCL cruise, it's more exciting than the first because I know how much fun I am going to have.

Jan

[kileybeth]

Cakesnjammom and Kileybeth: :grouphug: to both of you. Hope you are both doing well. I have been on methotrexate for the past 8-10 weeks for sarcoid of the lung. I was diagnosed 12 years ago and pretty much asymptomatic until the past 1.5 years. I preferred trying methotrexate than the standard protocol - prednisone. I have gotten past the nausea but the fatigue is sometimes overwhelming. I am scheduled for a pulmonary function test this Friday, then see my doc the Friday after the cruise. Hopefully, the PFT will show improvement with the methotrexate so I can avoid, at least temporarily, prednisone. I have to have monthly liver and CBC tests and so far, I've passed with flying colors.

I know, this is probably TMI. I am determined not to let my chronic lung disease get the best of me - physically and mentally.

On a brighter note, I am beginning the precruise laundry. Hopefully, I'll have everything ready to go in my suitcase by next Sunday. As I have previously posted, even though this is my 12th DCL cruise, it's more exciting than the first because I know how much fun I am going to have.

Jan

Good to hear your liver and CBC test are good. I worry but hten put off testing because I don't want to hear bad news. dumb, I know.

I just have one thing to say, the older I get, the more I miss my youth! :rotfl:
Don't get me wrong, don't want to go back, I just think youth is wasted on the YOUNG! :rotfl:

I started my laundry too this weekend! No wait, I do laundry every stinkin' day of the week and am never caught up:headache: But I did get everything done for the littles suitcases. And lots for DH, I can take their stuff away and they will just pull from whatever is left and not care. The other 3 of us, wear our stuff every week.

It's those repeat cruisers like you that make me so excited to go!!

Hi again Paige, still here. . .:laughing: did you see what Disneymoon did over on the meet thread? such a sweetie.

[cakesnjammom]

Cakesnjammom and Kileybeth: :grouphug: to both of you. Hope you are both doing well. I have been on methotrexate for the past 8-10 weeks for sarcoid of the lung. I was diagnosed 12 years ago and pretty much asymptomatic until the past 1.5 years. I preferred trying methotrexate than the standard protocol - prednisone. I have gotten past the nausea but the fatigue is sometimes overwhelming. I am scheduled for a pulmonary function test this Friday, then see my doc the Friday after the cruise. Hopefully, the PFT will show improvement with the methotrexate so I can avoid, at least temporarily, prednisone. I have to have monthly liver and CBC tests and so far, I've passed with flying colors.

I know, this is probably TMI. I am determined not to let my chronic lung disease get the best of me - physically and mentally.

On a brighter note, I am beginning the precruise laundry. Hopefully, I'll have everything ready to go in my suitcase by next Sunday. As I have previously posted, even though this is my 12th DCL cruise, it's more exciting than the first because I know how much fun I am going to have.

Jan

Jan - hello...so glad to hear from you....:hug: to you, you are being so positive not to let things get you down! I need to take lessons. I am so glad you have passed your tests w/ flying colors :cheer2: keep it up! steroids are a killer on your system.
still using the NAVS you sent me to plan with...thanks! Cannot wait to meet you...hope you feel a little better everyday!

kim -hope you had a productive day...our company was late so I did! and I got my cruise planning on too....of course! yep I saw holly's handy work...she is a doll!

[cakesnjammom]

well it has been a busy day here...cooking, cleaning, cooking, cleaning....planning!::yes::

just got finished working on a spreadsheet for the cruise...helps me to see everything in one place! I went back to make changes to our FE list and then realized the ones I had were right - whew...such a pain to change that map (have to get the dh invlolved) and getting him to STOP for 2 seconds is near impossible! :lmao:I guess when your wife feels icky and stops and does not get back up you have to RUN like a mad man...he is a good man:love2:...packing up the kids school stuff and getting everything squared away :lovestruc once I hit this spot with my laptop tonight....I am spent! and staying right here!

finally tried on my formal dress...yes that will be me with the glowing white legs and NO hose...I hate panty hose they should be banned on vacation...at least that is my rule...so say hello to my white legs!! dressy dress and sandals for me! also tried on my semi formal dress....say hello to my WHITE legs again :charac2:! yes I keep saying I am gonna rub on that sunless tanning stuff but never do...I am scared it will be ORANGE legs then and I cannot figure out which is worse??:scratchin opinions please!

well it is dentist appts for us tomorrow :teeth:. I hope to hear from my doc tomorrow too regarding all that blood she took from me :crazy2: all my best to anyone who's reading!! 11 DAYS but who's counting:rotfl:

[LC30]

well it has been a busy day here...cooking, cleaning, cooking, cleaning....planning!::yes::

just got finished working on a spreadsheet for the cruise...helps me to see everything in one place!

finally tried on my formal dress...yes that will be me with the glowing white legs and NO hose...I hate panty hose they should be banned on vacation...at least that is my rule...so say hello to my white legs!! scratchin opinions please!

well it is dentist appts for us tomorrow :teeth:. I hope to hear from my doc tomorrow too regarding all that blood she took from me :crazy2: all my best to anyone who's reading!! 11 DAYS but who's counting:rotfl:

I'm so glad there's someone else that puts together detailed planning spreadsheets for trip! I'm not so "sick" after all.

As for pantyhose...they seem so antiquated. I'm with you, no pantyhose. Glowing white legs I think are better than orange legs or pantyhose. When's formal night, I bet you would have a little color on those legs after a few days on the islands :laughing: Besides, I think a nice dress and some strappy heels go well with any kind of legs, glowing white or not.:thumbsup2

Good luck with the dr. Maybe we'll see you the 18th. Did you check out the map for the party yet? Oh and they sell those Halloween bags at your local Disney store. Bought one yesterday :yay:

[cakesnjammom]

I'm so glad there's someone else that puts together detailed planning spreadsheets for trip! I'm not so "sick" after all.

As for pantyhose...they seem so antiquated. I'm with you, no pantyhose. Glowing white legs I think are better than orange legs or pantyhose. When's formal night, I bet you would have a little color on those legs after a few days on the islands :laughing: Besides, I think a nice dress and some strappy heels go well with any kind of legs, glowing white or not.:thumbsup2

Good luck with the dr. Maybe we'll see you the 18th. Did you check out the map for the party yet? Oh and they sell those Halloween bags at your local Disney store. Bought one yesterday :yay:
welcome LC30 so glad you stopped in...I see you are cruising and attending MNSSHP :cool1:!
I am so with 'ya...WHITE legs RULE!
I got several of the MNSSHP bags at our local store too but thanks for the tip. I LOVE the bagd! I am actually bringing 3 extra bags on the cruise with me...2 for boys who need a special gift and one for a family in our FE that is going to use it as a "BOO" bag when they return home!
Knock on wood I DO feel better today! I appreciate the well wishes!
Maybe we will see you at the HP...are you doing Wishes Dessert Party too?
Cannot wait to hear all about your trip! Be safe!:upsidedow

[gvivanco]

Hey, guys! Kim, Paige, Jan - sorry you guys are having a hard time healthwise - I pray that everyone feel better so you can really enjoy all the hard work you all are putting in to just get ready for it! I was telling my husband tonight, if you want to do it right, it really takes a lot of effort to pull everything together!

Kim - wow, what a story about your baby! Yikes, that would kill me! You must be a very strong person!! :hug:

I was also wanting to bring jeans, and I read somewhere - in all the thousands of posts I've read! - that on casual night, jeans are just fine. You know, you can dress jeans up anyway, with what shirt and shoes you put with them. So I have at least one night I'm wearing jeans to dinner.

It's so fun to catch up and read everyone's posts! Our trip board has been pretty quiet lately......

Anyway, it's late so I'll go get to bed now......

Talk to ya later!

[cakesnjammom]

you know I should not still be on here!!!!

But this was so funny, that is the sloppy joe recipe I use!!! :rotfl:

it was YUMMY! ;)

Hey, guys! Kim, Paige, Jan - sorry you guys are having a hard time healthwise - I pray that everyone feel better so you can really enjoy all the hard work you all are putting in to just get ready for it! I was telling my husband tonight, if you want to do it right, it really takes a lot of effort to pull everything together!

Kim - wow, what a story about your baby! Yikes, that would kill me! You must be a very strong person!! :hug:

I was also wanting to bring jeans, and I read somewhere - in all the thousands of posts I've read! - that on casual night, jeans are just fine. You know, you can dress jeans up anyway, with what shirt and shoes you put with them. So I have at least one night I'm wearing jeans to dinner.

It's so fun to catch up and read everyone's posts! Our trip board has been pretty quiet lately......

Anyway, it's late so I'll go get to bed now......

Talk to ya later!

gretchen - I am with you....the meets board is DEAD...
I am bringing jeans now too! I feel the same way!
Saw on FB that Dennis is going to Hollywood Studios today!!! Lucky!

[hannahguad]

Hi Paige and everyone!!
Wow, single digits here too!!! party:
About the jeans, I saw the same thing on the boards about some saying they didn't see it at all and some didn't think it was right to wear at dinner, blah-blah:rolleyes:. I say wear what you want, we are all on vacation here!! But, please don't wear the birthday suit!!:laughing: I am packing a pair for DH and for myself, I am just wearing capris the whole time. Really, when we went last year, I even saw shorts in the dining room. :) Nobody cared, at least I didn't, but I am not the fashion police. I wear t-shirts and shorts all day long.
Glad all the tests came back okay!!!
Kim-I feel for you with your baby and tubes:goodvibes. My DD was in the same situation. 6 weeks premature and oxygen deprived.. But, enough about that on my end, I will just keep rambling on!!:hug:

Well, just stopped in to say HI!!:yay: Keep typing! Our group board is really quiet..:surfweb::happytv: Everyone must be busy, busy, busy. Which is exactly what I should be doing.. Off to the Disneystore to get my DD some Up stuffed characters for a surprise gift in the room.

[cakesnjammom]

Hi Paige and everyone!!
Wow, single digits here too!!! party:
About the jeans, I saw the same thing on the boards about some saying they didn't see it at all and some didn't think it was right to wear at dinner, blah-blah:rolleyes:. I say wear what you want, we are all on vacation here!! But, please don't wear the birthday suit!!:laughing: I am packing a pair for DH and for myself, I am just wearing capris the whole time. Really, when we went last year, I even saw shorts in the dining room. :) Nobody cared, at least I didn't, but I am not the fashion police. I wear t-shirts and shorts all day long.
Glad all the tests came back okay!!!
Kim-I feel for you with your baby and tubes:goodvibes. My DD was in the same situation. 6 weeks premature and oxygen deprived.. But, enough about that on my end, I will just keep rambling on!!:hug:

Well, just stopped in to say HI!!:yay: Keep typing! Our group board is really quiet..:surfweb::happytv: Everyone must be busy, busy, busy. Which is exactly what I should be doing.. Off to the Disneystore to get my DD some Up stuffed characters for a surprise gift in the room.

Karen - so glad you stopped in to say hi! love your polar express pic...too cute!

I am getting ready to sign off...feel very cruddy today...called doctor and she seems to think my body is adjusting to the new bp meds.........arghhh...let's hope! I don't know why??? but I really have NO patience, you would think I am taking a trip of a lifetime or something???? i think this is my worst day in quite awhile...dizzy and headaches. I swear if this is a test please let me PASS it....sick and tired of being sick and tired :headache:. now on to more positive subjects....

I saw my dh was on the boards today :yay:...love it when he starts getting involved...means things are getting closer!

our dd isn't liking the K routine...she hates going to bed early, getting up early and being gone ALL day...she cries at night and says "she just wants to be with her family"! what do you say to that?

yep, been trying to make those stinkin autograph books...no luck! if anyone here has made them on 5x7 cardstock and printing them in word using someone's photobucket designs....any help is appreciated! really DO NOT feel like hassling w/ it today :sad2:! when I copy the images to word they are small?

I would love to make a MNSSHP button too...but time is creeping up on me :rolleyes1
after all the jeans talk I need to remember to go throw my pair in the suitcase...debated on whether to add them and do not want to forget 'em. just my luck I get there and realize...no jeans!

keep posting....it is exciting chatting w/ everyone...who knew things would "die down" like this so close to the cruise...yes, must be some very BUSY folks!

[gvivanco]

Paige - I hope you feel better today! I just now read your post from yesterday about feeling so bad. This all must pass before your VACATION!!!

Can't help you with the autograph books! I have no idea how to do stuff like that! I just buy those things....:rolleyes1

Sorry about Katie not liking school. That is just one of the reasons I chose to homeschool. They grow up so fast, and I love having them with me everyday and seeing all the new things they discover. I know some people just can't do it, but I love it. (It's tough, though!) I do believe she will get into the routine and grow to like it. It's just new and unknown.

Well, I got my packing cubes today......just a minute ago.....so we'll see what that's like. I'm like those people that were a bit skeptical at first about how awesome they could possibly be, but maybe I'll be like them and say, "Oh, I can't live without them now!!" :confused3

I've done a good bit of packing, but I can't pack up all the girls stuff.....they have to wear something! There are so many little things I'm scared I'm gonna forget.......I do have a list,though. Just one of those things about vacation, I guess. It seems like I always forget something. Hopefully it won't be anything too huge, like my camera or something. I'm not buying another digital camera in FL! :rolleyes:

Ok, I gotta go get something done!!

Talk soon!!

Gretchen

[cakesnjammom]

hi gretchen! I actually feel good today - scared to even say that but I guess I did :upsidedow !
dd is really loving emailing the girls...she gets SO excited...she gets mad because she rambles on all the "girl" talk and I do not type it all :rotfl:! she says we are going to have so much fun after every thought!

you have got to fill me in on how you like the CUBES...they sound awesome to me....like stuff (underwear/socks) in one place...I hate digging through a suitcase, I can NEVER find what I am looking for :headache:

you know we are basically packed but I feel the same way...like I am going to forget something major!:rolleyes1 I have tried to stay ahead of the game and I really hope I do not have to pay a price for that...say no underwear:lmao:, we are so bad remembering electronics and all the cables and chargers...we always forget something. my budget cannot take it....I would love a NEWER camera but not because I forgot mine either. I love at these amazing pics people take and hope my cannon does the job. I am keeping a list too...I just have to use it :rolleyes:.

wow at the recent upgrades people got...I knew there were several CAT 4 available for our cruise and someone told me we are not FULL so! CONGRATS to those that got pixie dusted!

looking at my countdown clock on my desktop is so exciting! it says 8 DAYS to go!
I have considered homeschooling...but I am not dedicated enough to do it....when I told my hubby I was thinking about it...he said I was not regimined enough :rotfl:it is true...they would never get anything done. I admire you for it.
I hope baby girl will get more used to it as the days move on...she is SO tired after her day...so tired and so cranky! She has to be in bed at 7pm....and she is not used to that either...she is a night owl like her Daddy.
well off to lurk. keep me posted on how things are going.......whoo-hoo!:cheer2:

[Sinderelly]

Hi Paige:
I thought I would come on over and catch up on your pre trippie. I am so GLAD you are finally feeling better. :flower3:

I ordered the packing cubes from Ebags too. We got them a few days ago and they are now packed full. I love them. They keep everything so organized. I was actually able to condense by one suitcase ( well actually I packed a suitcase inside a suitcase in case it's need for stuff we bring home. I can't make a trip to Florida without stopping at Ross. :rotfl:

Reading about all your plans gets me even more excited about the cruise. I am happy with our room but wouldn't mind an upgrade if there any available.

Could you please email me a copy of the final list? sinderbaby@aol.com DH and I were checking our list and are afraid we missed some changes along the way? :confused3

[cakesnjammom]

sinderelly - so glad to see your post!!
man, I knew I should have gotten the CUBES! my dh was not excited about them so I skipped it.....so I blame dh!:lmao:he got too much engineer in him :rotfl2:for packing cubes, we don't need no stinkin' packing cubes...I can hear him saying!

we went to the packie tonight and got a little libation...rum and bailey's...whew the bailey's broke us (we went with the small NIP bottles for easy transport)
dh being 1/2 japanese has ALDH2 and does not process alcohol due to a missing enzyme in his liver (it is an asian thing) and he turns completely red at his first sip and I am not much of a drinker either...so we are real light weights!
I really hate for dh to drink (and he RARELY does) because it is very dangerous since he has ALDH2 but I guess in moderation I'll allow it :lmao:....and since we are celebrating his 40th and our 12th!! so I will keep a close eye on him :cloud9:...no flames please!

got the panties and the bras I was waiting on, I know TMI. now if I can just remember to pack them. I really need a pool cover up...maybe I will look in FL..mine are all sleeveless and with the burning/flushing I am having I have GOT to be EXTRIE (extra) careful!

dh has to work all night tonight! yucko! and I am trying to herd kids to bed now...dd should have been in bed 13 mins ago!

well I guess that is it! feel bad because my QOTD did not go over well today! NO ONE answered :sad2:...I hope everyone is busy and NOT offended!:scared1:

ok off to get my children in their beds: PRONTO
THANKS to those that are following along....lurkers allowed as long as you say HI sometime! All my best!:wave2::wave:

[kileybeth]

Hey Paige! Just wanted to check in and see how you were doing, sounds like you have had a turn for the better, lets keep our fingers crossed it last!

I am crazy insane busy and can't hang out here to much now that we are so close.

Have teens going away this weekend and then they will return Sunday night with more dirty laundry, does it never end!?

2 eye doctors appts later and 4 dentist visits yet to go, it has been a busy week here for sure. I am soooooo doen with shopping for this cruise, want to have something left to spend once we get there!

Packed the garment bag with formal stuff today, suprised how nicely it fit.

Must organize all the paperwork, what a nightmare. I have filled in 24 pages of forms for dr's and fall retreats for kids in past 48 hours. So tired of papers.

Sorry to hear Katie is having a tough adjustment. You know, the little ones really are just so worn out and tired when they first start, she will build up her stamina. And make friends. And end up lovin' it. Try to make "after school" a special time for her. I still remember my little man (son #2) sitting so tiny and dejected on the school steps as I pulled the car up in the line to get him for a week or so everyday. I felt so bad for him. He did finally adjust but we did end up going back to half day kindergarten once we figured out that in the afternoon they did exactly three things, eat lunch, clean up the classroom and take a nap! Oh my, it is hard for a Mama's heart isn't it?
She'll be ready to cruise for sure!

I am suddenly feeling like all this planning and I have nothing to show for it? I don't know, I want it all to be fun and relaxing but I'm so nervous about health issues, flu season, sea sickness I am letting it all get to me I think.
Trying to stay on track so last few days are not so pressured and chaotic as they usually are. My health doesn't do well with that at all. So I continue to push to get it all done. Wanted to thank you for all the organizing you have put together. Really has helped me get a feel for things and look forward to meeting so many of our cruise buddies.

I will certainly be sparse on here until we sail or nothing will get done.

:hug: for you and Katie!

[gvivanco]

Hi! Yikes! I can't believe I'm up and posting at 1:39 am! I've always been somewhat of a night owl, but this is ridiculous! Like someone else said, I guess it's getting me ready for late nights on the Magic! :woohoo:

I love the packing cubes and ordered more today!! They are great for organizing! I really think when it's all said and done, they are a great thing. They should be here in a few days......that is cutting it really close!!

Ok, off to bed now!!! I have to get a couple hours of sleep, right? :rolleyes1

Gretchen

[cakesnjammom]

Hey Paige! Just wanted to check in and see how you were doing, sounds like you have had a turn for the better, lets keep our fingers crossed it last!

I am crazy insane busy and can't hang out here to much now that we are so close.

Have teens going away this weekend and then they will return Sunday night with more dirty laundry, does it never end!?

2 eye doctors appts later and 4 dentist visits yet to go, it has been a busy week here for sure. I am soooooo doen with shopping for this cruise, want to have something left to spend once we get there!

Packed the garment bag with formal stuff today, suprised how nicely it fit.

Must organize all the paperwork, what a nightmare. I have filled in 24 pages of forms for dr's and fall retreats for kids in past 48 hours. So tired of papers.

Sorry to hear Katie is having a tough adjustment. You know, the little ones really are just so worn out and tired when they first start, she will build up her stamina. And make friends. And end up lovin' it. Try to make "after school" a special time for her. I still remember my little man (son #2) sitting so tiny and dejected on the school steps as I pulled the car up in the line to get him for a week or so everyday. I felt so bad for him. He did finally adjust but we did end up going back to half day kindergarten once we figured out that in the afternoon they did exactly three things, eat lunch, clean up the classroom and take a nap! Oh my, it is hard for a Mama's heart isn't it?
She'll be ready to cruise for sure!

I am suddenly feeling like all this planning and I have nothing to show for it? I don't know, I want it all to be fun and relaxing but I'm so nervous about health issues, flu season, sea sickness I am letting it all get to me I think.
Trying to stay on track so last few days are not so pressured and chaotic as they usually are. My health doesn't do well with that at all. So I continue to push to get it all done. Wanted to thank you for all the organizing you have put together. Really has helped me get a feel for things and look forward to meeting so many of our cruise buddies.

I will certainly be sparse on here until we sail or nothing will get done.

:hug: for you and Katie!

whew! Kim things do sound crazy insane...I hope it calms soon. You will get it all done! I too worry about sickness....oh lordy who knew all the WORRY that would go into this vacation. I am going to let God drive!
Try to breathe...if we do not have it all together/packed/organized we are still going to have a BLAST!!

Hi! Yikes! I can't believe I'm up and posting at 1:39 am! I've always been somewhat of a night owl, but this is ridiculous! Like someone else said, I guess it's getting me ready for late nights on the Magic! :woohoo:

I love the packing cubes and ordered more today!! They are great for organizing! I really think when it's all said and done, they are a great thing. They should be here in a few days......that is cutting it really close!!

Ok, off to bed now!!! I have to get a couple hours of sleep, right? :rolleyes1

Gretchen
1:39 am goodness girlie! I hope you got some sleep! I am so glad you like the CUBES, I knew I should not have listened to dh and ordered them anyway!!:headache: more! wow they must really be awesome double:headache::headache:

come on MAGIC!:woohoo:

[cakesnjammom]

my kiddos should be coming in the door any minute now but I thought I would quickly post.....autograph books are almost DONE...just need to cut the plastic cover and add all the pages to the rings...they really look GREAT!! hmmmm... if I do say so myself :rolleyes1thanks DISigners!!

also printed thank you cards today...love them too...thanks Milliepie!

ran to Wally world again today....just realized the deodorant I bought STINKS so I have to get more! I will NEVER by CVS brand deo again! and ds also needed undershirts!

ok dokie I guess I will go and deal with the monsters who are home and starving....and all excited because it is FRIDAY!:yay:

[cakesnjammom]

Hi! We are traveling to SC today...in route now! Thought I would pop in while riding and say whoo-hoo! We leave this week! Thurs will come quickly. Pretty much got everything done. I think...I am sure something will creep up on me.
Go BACK to docotr tomorrow so please pray I get some answers OR some valuum LOL whichever is available.
I hope my fellow cruisers are feeling prepped and ready too, I am sending you all pixie dust. I think our group has 2 newly married couples - congrats...hope it was Magical!
Well back to riding!
C U soon.

[kileybeth]

You rock girl! Everything done! Wow! There are no words! Oh I jest! I always have words, lots and lots of words. . .HA!

did the final try on/ matching session with the DD14 today when she was all tired and mellow from no sleep from two nights away, ;) it was a plan! We did not fight or argue just laughed our heads off and now it is done and nearly everything is packed up for her except a few things in the laundry. :yay:

gotta move along and check over on Yahoo, you people are filling my inbox beyond belief! what is all this stuff??!

Seeya real soon!

Enjoy your time away. Kim

[disney minnie]

Hi Everyone!

I just got off the Magic yesterday and wanted to give you a clue about packing. If you have packed too much stuff like me--- remove half of your stuff and you will never miss it! True statement!

Have a great time!

[kileybeth]

Hi Everyone!

I just got off the Magic yesterday and wanted to give you a clue about packing. If you have packed too much stuff like me--- remove half of your stuff and you will never miss it! True statement!

Have a great time!

Oh man! I am trying but can I just say my DD4 and DS6 have to many absolutely adorable clothes?! This is so hard. Even the DD14 came up with enough stuff and I never thought we'd be able to do that. She is a chuncky monkey and short to boot, just like her Mama, so sad. :sad2: Now me? OMG, haven't even tried to sort out my thoughts on that one.

What did you have to much of? dinner stuff? day time stuff? to many bathing suits? shoes? :laughing: We need details!

I just saw you were home over on your meet thread and finally woke up! :rotfl: sounds like it was a fabulous trip weather wise. And here we sit worried about boarding in the rain! :scared1:

[disney minnie]

1 bathing suit per adult and 2 for each child

Our three year old had tons of cute clothes, but I could have left half at home because she wore her costumes a lot - yes, we took Tinkerbell, Minnie, Pirate, Aurora, Snow White,and Alice. Whew!

Our son could have survived on dinner clothes and 3 sets of play clothes for the clubs. We did wash clothes while we were there.

I could have survived with dinner clothes, 1 pair of white jeans, 1 pair of blue jeans, nice jacket, a couple of decent tops, 1 pair of high heels for dinner, 1 pair of flip flops, and 1 pair nice sandals. I only wore the high heels during dinner - then I changed to the sandals - too much walking.

[cakesnjammom]

1 bathing suit per adult and 2 for each child

Our three year old had tons of cute clothes, but I could have left half at home because she wore her costumes a lot - yes, we took Tinkerbell, Minnie, Pirate, Aurora, Snow White,and Alice. Whew!

Our son could have survived on dinner clothes and 3 sets of play clothes for the clubs. We did wash clothes while we were there.

I could have survived with dinner clothes, 1 pair of white jeans, 1 pair of blue jeans, nice jacket, a couple of decent tops, 1 pair of high heels for dinner, 1 pair of flip flops, and 1 pair nice sandals. I only wore the high heels during dinner - then I changed to the sandals - too much walking.


thanks for the info disneyminnie! glad you posted! I hope we do not have too much! I did take ideas when we went to Delray Beach for a week but we had NO dinner clothes - those were not needed- so it is hard to compare the 2 trips really.

we have 2 very LARGE suitcases (yes I know I have to house them for the week!) but that is the only suit cases we have that would work and I forbid myself to buy any (I did look at a few and told myself - no way Jose)
2 carry ones (a rolling cooler and a rolling duffel) plus a back pack and the kids small backpacks, if they decide to take them and a garment bag!:scared1: wow sounds like too much just typing it!:rolleyes1

went to a dermatologist today - referred from my PCP :headache: what an incredible WASTE of time!:headache: he did not have any thoughts on how to correct my flushing :mad::mad: I cannot believe I shaved my legs for that :rolleyes:! I am doing the 24 hour urine collection today! and back to the lab to turn it in tomorrow! will be no results from that until we get back :furious: NOW testing for carcinoid something or other and histimine levels.....the carcinoid thing really makes me worry but I guess before a cruise is NOT a good time to learn you have a cancer related disease!:ssst:to their beds

well off to bathe my children, lay out school clothes for tomorrow and get them well on their way towards their beds!
still have a mountain of laundry to do tonight, where does it come from? it is like rabbitts, it multiplies!:sad2:
3 more days til we get on the boat!

[kileybeth]

1 bathing suit per adult and 2 for each child

Our three year old had tons of cute clothes, but I could have left half at home because she wore her costumes a lot - yes, we took Tinkerbell, Minnie, Pirate, Aurora, Snow White,and Alice. Whew!

Our son could have survived on dinner clothes and 3 sets of play clothes for the clubs. We did wash clothes while we were there.

I could have survived with dinner clothes, 1 pair of white jeans, 1 pair of blue jeans, nice jacket, a couple of decent tops, 1 pair of high heels for dinner, 1 pair of flip flops, and 1 pair nice sandals. I only wore the high heels during dinner - then I changed to the sandals - too much walking.

Thanks for coming back on to post Elizabeth, and so sorry Paige to highjack your thread! ;) Now I have yet another question?

When and where did your daughter wear her Princess costumes? We have the nicer ones but my DD4 still thinks they are itchy and doesn't like to keep them on for very long and I had been thinking about "forgetting them" Opps! BUT I really do want pics of her with the Princesses as we are planning on doing a shutters package. . .

Plus, she already has a dress (think very formal flower girl) for formal night and a dress for captains gala, informal night and beautiful summer sundress' for each of the dinners? <sigh> She would be a mess I think trying to eat dinner in costume? She is quite used to her regular dresses.

I thought about tink for pirate night but she likes her black pettiskirt with pink pirate tee? ugh. I can't decide what to bring and now I feel like I should leave some home :confused3 We have tink, cinderella, belle, alice and ariel, her absolute favorite. :sad2:

[kileybeth]

[QUOTE=cakesnjammom;33589733]thanks for the info disneyminnie! glad you posted! I hope we do not have too much! I did take ideas when we went to Delray Beach for a week but we had NO dinner clothes - those were not needed- so it is hard to compare the 2 trips really.

we have 2 very LARGE suitcases (yes I know I have to house them for the week!) but that is the only suit cases we have that would work and I forbid myself to buy any (I did look at a few and told myself - no way Jose)
2 carry ones (a rolling cooler and a rolling duffel) plus a back pack and the kids small backpacks, if they decide to take them and a garment bag!:scared1: wow sounds like too much just typing it!:rolleyes1

went to a dermatologist today - referred from my PCP :headache: what an incredible WASTE of time!:headache: he did not have any thoughts on how to correct my flushing :mad::mad: I cannot believe I shaved my legs for that :rolleyes:! I am doing the 24 hour urine collection today! and back to the lab to turn it in tomorrow! will be no results from that until we get back :furious: NOW testing for carcinoid something or other and histimine levels.....the carcinoid thing really makes me worry but I guess before a cruise is NOT a good time to learn you have a cancer related

:flower3: oh man Paige! That just stinks. maybe the new test will actually show up nothing or at least something not serious and treatable, I will pray for sure. So hard not having an answer and yet:idea: Maybe the relaxation of being "away from it all" for a week will help too!

I was :rotfl2: with your "cannot believe I shaved my legs for this?" comment!

[disney minnie]

She wore Minnie to dinner one night, Tinkerbell to the character breeakfast, pirate costume from Pirate League on pirate night, Alice to the tea, Aurora to semi-formal night, and Snow White somewhere in between.

[cakesnjammom]

[quote=cakesnjammom;33589733]thanks for the info disneyminnie! glad you posted! I hope we do not have too much! I did take ideas when we went to Delray Beach for a week but we had NO dinner clothes - those were not needed- so it is hard to compare the 2 trips really.

we have 2 very LARGE suitcases (yes I know I have to house them for the week!) but that is the only suit cases we have that would work and I forbid myself to buy any (I did look at a few and told myself - no way Jose)
2 carry ones (a rolling cooler and a rolling duffel) plus a back pack and the kids small backpacks, if they decide to take them and a garment bag!:scared1: wow sounds like too much just typing it!:rolleyes1

went to a dermatologist today - referred from my PCP :headache: what an incredible WASTE of time!:headache: he did not have any thoughts on how to correct my flushing :mad::mad: I cannot believe I shaved my legs for that :rolleyes:! I am doing the 24 hour urine collection today! and back to the lab to turn it in tomorrow! will be no results from that until we get back :furious: NOW testing for carcinoid something or other and histimine levels.....the carcinoid thing really makes me worry but I guess before a cruise is NOT a good time to learn you have a cancer related

:flower3: oh man Paige! That just stinks. maybe the new test will actually show up nothing or at least something not serious and treatable, I will pray for sure. So hard not having an answer and yet:idea: Maybe the relaxation of being "away from it all" for a week will help too!

I was :rotfl2: with your "cannot believe I shaved my legs for this?" comment!
thanks so much kim...I actually feel good this morning maybe the patch is working???? who knows!
shaving my legs...hehehehe...that is really what I thought sitting on the doctor's table in my panties and bra :scared1: for a SKIN check...geez.
I was so excited to read your post about having everything loaded, on top of car and tested!!!! :woohoo: You go girl!

She wore Minnie to dinner one night, Tinkerbell to the character breeakfast, pirate costume from Pirate League on pirate night, Alice to the tea, Aurora to semi-formal night, and Snow White somewhere in between.

Kim- also we are bringing dd a tee shirt to wear under the top of some of the costumes...just a thought...I understand the ooopppss I forgot them deal too! we thought about that one too!:rotfl:

[cakesnjammom]

WE LEAVE TODAY!
dh is still sleeping...he is going to drive so he needs the extra zzzz's! we are all SUPER hyper (except dh i.e. sleeping) but the kids have left for school so I hoped they calmed down. :banana: (sorry kathy) but I just could not contain myself!

FEELING GOOD this morning (as I knock on wood) PRAISE GOD - he is good all the time!
Just had to post and say on last goodbye...I will be checking in some via my phone but not sure how much!
Have errands to run...gas up the car, buy stamps, mail some stuff...you know normal stuff and then I will p/u kiddos about 1 or so...then straight home for baths (w/ H1N1 going around here) they need to be SHINY clean for the road! Then get them into comfy clothes and hopefully we are off.
Safe travels to any of you on the roads, skies or seas soon too!
I plan to post my TR upon returning..and hope to have lots of pics....that is what you really want (I know). So check back in!
Au revoir! :yay::yay::yay::yay::yay::yay::yay::yay::yay::yay: :yay::yay::yay:

[gvivanco]

Yay, Paige!! I know you're actually there now! It's 6:00 am, and we are about to leave. My DH actually had some kind of work deadline thing he had to do, so he was up all night long, and is on his way home right now!! So, guess who will be sleeping the whole way down there (and, by default, who will be driving)!! :sad2: At least I made sure the car was completely packed last night, so all he has to do is get here and we can head out!

Anyway, I hope you and your family are well, and safe and have a great time tonight at MK!! :woohoo:

See you soon! :yay:

Gretchen

[cakesnjammom]

Yay, Paige!! I know you're actually there now! It's 6:00 am, and we are about to leave. My DH actually had some kind of work deadline thing he had to do, so he was up all night long, and is on his way home right now!! So, guess who will be sleeping the whole way down there (and, by default, who will be driving)!! :sad2: At least I made sure the car was completely packed last night, so all he has to do is get here and we can head out!

Anyway, I hope you and your family are well, and safe and have a great time tonight at MK!! :woohoo:

See you soon! :yay:

Gretchen

oh NO an all nighter before you leave :scared1:! I hope your travels are smooth! So sorry you have to drive yuck! You will be here soon!

Wake up and look out and we see the port!! SO nice! Hot here and humid of course it's FL!! Had breakfast and now back in the room....dh is sleeping and I am trying to keep the kids...calm and quiet :lmao:Looking forward to the halloween party tonight!:woohoo:and the dessert party too :yay:

[UGAFan0829]

Hey, Paige!
I just wanted to check in and let you know that I'm thinking about you while you're gone. I hope you're having a fantastic time, and I can't wait to hear all about it once you're back!!!

[cakesnjammom]

Awwww thanks Missy! It was a blast. We are all exhausted. We are about 96 miles from home after a lenghty stop in GA to pick-up our doggies and visit and have supper w/ MIL and then a quickie visit to my mom's.....now on the road again in the rain. Cannot wait for my own bed and bath.
We have over 400+ pics. I hope to post some of my TR soon. I started it on the ride today. Cannot wait to read about your great trip. Hope it was MAGICAL. I have decided that my fav sound is that pixie dust "twinkling" sound- LOL
We did upgrade at the port to a CAT 6.....details to come.
Hope all is well w/ you and Mike. And I have to say GO DAWGS.

[cakesnjammom]

I started my TR here:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=33739100#post33739100

I have TONS of pics and have only downloaded a few!! Hope to see you over at the TR!!