A Dream is a wish your heart makes:Day 6 - last full day [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

tbelfonti

03-20-2009, 01:29 PM

This is our pre-trip report for our Make A Wish trip

Cast Of Characters:

Olivia: age 4 and star of this show. She is all princess, all the time. All about dresses, pink and anything “girly”. Loves to swim, dance and take gymnastics. Goes to preK and probably would have been ready for K last year but was too young. Was very much into Sleeping Beauty and now is all about Ariel.

Olivia has been through hell and back. This little girl technically shouldn’t even be alive today. When I was 18 weeks pregnant with Olivia, we were told she had complex heart defects. They strongly suggested we not continue the pregnancy. Long story short, we ignored that advice and here we are! Olivia’s had three heart surgeries – the most recent was March 24, 2008. We are technically “done” and she shouldn’t need anymore surgeries!!! :lovestruc

Maddie: age 8 and the co-star. She is in third grade and very much my tomboy but starting to show interest in fashion, etc. Maddie plays basketball for her school team; sings in the chorus; a member of the Lego Team and is involved in Girl Scouts. She also LOVES to swim and just started taking a new swim class that is a “pre-pre-pre swim team” ;) to work on her swim strokes. She LOVES Disney and still sleeps with Classic Piglet that we got for her before she was born.

This trip is just as much about Maddie as it is Olivia. Maddie had a really hard time with Olivia’s last surgery. So much so that she passed out after seeing her sister in ICU. She acts tough but really has a sensitive soul. I have to remind her that I'm the mom and I'll do the worrying about her sister. When and if it's time to worry, I'll let her know. But in the meantime, she's to just enjoy life :)

Tricia: age 38 (gulp). Aka Mom. I’m a Disney gal through and through. Would have named one of my children “Disney” if I could have gotten away with it and not been disowned by the family :lol. I work FT in IT for a bank. I also dabble as a Disney travel agent. I live and breathe Disney. My girls say that Mickey ::MickeyMo is my boyfriend.

Arnie: age 39. Aka Dad. He became a huge Disney fan on our honeymoon. He works for a printer as a customer service rep. Well, there’s a fancy schmancy title there but basically it’s customer service rep ;). He's the voice of reason and responsibility (booo ;)). He has no problem being silly and crazy with the kids and they love him for it! He's a big fan of Ariel and Jasmine ... for obvious reasons ;).

Background:

When Olivia was first born I would whisper in her ear “we need to get you better so we can go to Disney World”. That was my goal. Get that baby healthy enough to get to Disney World. After every surgery, we’d start the same chant “get better so we can go to Disney World!”

Olivia’s been to Disney 3 times. The most recent trip was in August after the last surgery. We needed to live like “normal people” and so off we went. It was a birthday gift for both girls and a very magical trip.

Olivia went through a huge Sleeping Beauty phase starting last spring. After her surgery she was lying in ICU watching SB. The surgeon was concerned with how much bleeding she was having at the time and was hovering by her bedside. All of a sudden, Olivia was crying hysterically. Of course, Arnie and I were right there asking what was wrong. Was she in pain? What hurt? She said in the midst of her tears "I can't see the tv because HE IS IN THE WAY!" (finger pointing at the surgeon!) That right there is Olivia in a nutshell. We were all freaking out that she was going to go back into the OR ... and she was mad because the surgeon was interfering with her movie!

Make a Wish came about because of our pediatrician. She suggested we do this sooner than later for no other reason than to do it while Olivia is still young enough to thoroughly believe in the Magic.

We contacted MAW in early fall. Paperwork had to be filed by the cardiologist. By mid-November we received the packet stating Olivia had been accepted. It was a Saturday and I cried my eyes out. Because throughout it all I always thought “it could be worse”. MAW accepting us was a reality of everything we’ve been through.

November 21: Our wish granters, Louise and Mike, came out to meet with us and brought gifts for the girls. They asked Olivia what she wanted if she could wish for anything. She was coloring and without even looking up she said “I want to be a princess in Disney World!” We picked a range of dates starting the last week of April and ending the Friday before Mother’s Day and said “pick a week”.

December 5: We got a call from Louise that our dates were booked: April 27 – May 2.

January 7: We got flight confirmation. Surreal that this is actually happening!

So this is where we're at for today. I'll be posting more coming up with our actual park plans. I'm having a hard time planning the "non-Disney" days which I'll get into in the next post.

maroo

03-20-2009, 02:07 PM

Woo Hoo!! Another Wish Trip pre-trippie!!

I am so excited!

I want to know how I can dabble as a Disney travel agent? :rolleyes1 That sounds like FUN!!!

I love Disney, too. But my friends all think that I have lost my mind.

- I am very glad you didn't take the advice of those doctors saying you should terminate your pregnancy. I know people have to make hard choices every day and that isn't one that anyone should have to make. I am glad you chose the way you did!

- Bless Maddie's heart! :love: It has to be tough on a sibling!!

- Olivia! My kind of girl...Doctor Dude! Get out of the way of my TV!! :laughing: I am so glad she is better!! :banana: :banana: :banana: And good choice on the Disney vaca! :)

You probably have all of this pretty much figured out! Hopefully we can help with the non-Disney days and the GKTW stuff...

This will be a trip like none other! :)

Welcome to the Wish Trippers family!

keetmommy

03-20-2009, 04:56 PM

Sounds like you have had quite the experience with her. Enjoy your normal time..I know we relish it!

StefaniLyn

03-20-2009, 09:08 PM

Wow! Your Olivia sounds sooooooo similar to my Bella! We would use a trip to Disney to motivate her to get better as well! I'm looking forward to reading the rest of your pre-trip report and MAW Trip Report too! How very exciting for you and your family. I can't wait to see some pictures!

Somer

03-20-2009, 09:48 PM

WOW, your little ones have been through so much and they deserve to go to Disney World. And so do you!!! We are a heart family also. Our trip is in October and I just started a pre-wish trip report even though we have a long wait. Nice to meet you, and I can't wait to see some pictures.:flower3:

LindaBabe

03-21-2009, 03:11 AM

You have a great way with a story, Tricia! Can't wait to read the rest of it!

HeatherSue

03-23-2009, 10:38 AM

I'm on board, too! I love the relationship between your two girls. It reminds me of a couple of sisters that I know! :thumbsup2

SunnieRN

03-23-2009, 10:48 AM

Love the story of her crying because the surgeon was in her way!! Now that's spunk!!
Hope your trip is full of princess pixie dust!! Looking forward to more!!

maroo

03-23-2009, 10:48 AM

I'm on board, too! I love the relationship between your two girls. It reminds me of a couple of sisters that I know! :thumbsup2

Their names would not happen to be Teresa and Heather, would they? :rolleyes1

tbelfonti

03-23-2009, 11:36 AM

ok the "you're" should be "your" in the title and that's going to bug me forever and always :lol:

So here's where we are today with park plans, etc.

It's very hard giving up "control" as I'm sure you all experience when someone else is planning your trip. We are SO THANKFUL for this trip as it's giving my girls the opportunity to experience things we could never give them - for example staying at GKTW.

Also, the girls and I very much Castle people. If we could, we would live in the castle. I could spend an entire week at MK and not bother with any other park :lol. Don't tell the kids, but in October I had to go to FL for a training class so I left a few days early and did a solo trip to WDW. Spent two full days at MK ... by myself LOL.

Anyway I digress ...

We got our flight information and I'm bummed out.

Flights:

Monday: lv 8:30AM ar 11:30AM
Sunday: lv 12:30PM ar 3:30PM

So Monday and Sunday are shot for park days. Arnie's happy about the flight home, for no other reason but that he'll be rested for Monday morning back to work ;).

We have 5 full days to use 6 days worth of tickets - which isn't a big deal because I'm not sure we're going to SeaWorld at all but I'm getting ahead of myself.

Our current plans:

Monday: arrive at MCO. Pick up car and drive to GKTW. Check in, hit Walmart if needed. Swim.

4:00pm ADR at 1900 Park Fair.
7:30PM(?) Orientation at GKTW

Tuesday: MK day Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at 11:10AM. CRT at 4PM.

Wednesday: Universal Day. No dining planned - not sure what to do for food here.

Thursday: DHS day. 5:45PM ADR at Sci Fi. Couldn't get 4 together so we're booked as 2 tabletops (?) - possibly not together. May spend morning at Epcot as DHS isn't usually a full day park for us.

Friday: Universal or SeaWorld day. We went to SeaWorld in '05. We were less than impressed. The food? HORRIFIC. We like to eat. We have no problem spending money for a good meal. However - we found the food at SeaWorld inedible. So we're probably going to head back to Universal if the kids enjoyed it.

Saturday: MK day. Arnie really wanted to do a Segway Tour at Epcot so he's going to do that while the girls and I go to breakfast at CP and we'll meet up at MK later. 6:20PM ADR at the Plaza Restaurant.

Sunday: pack up and go home.

So my questions to all the families who have done Wish trips and / or Universal:

1. Where do you recommend eating at Universal?
2. Will it matter that we skip AK all together?
3. Same question for SeaWorld? Is it worth it or should we plan to do two days at Universal?

tbelfonti

03-23-2009, 12:46 PM

maroo

03-23-2009, 01:04 PM

Planning!!! I LOVE LOVE LOVE this stage! :)

I am so glad that you are aware you can't do it all! I have seen so many families try to plan to do every single park! We decided to skip AK, too. But I went back on a solo trip and it was my favorite park! :confused3 But there are very special wish trip things (VIP lounges, etc) at the other parks...so you should be good to skip AK! :)

Sea World - First...I can't believe the food was bad for you guys. We had a buffet there and it was the best food of our whole trip! I would go back to Sea World just for that buffet. Yum! :rotfl: Strange how that works out, isn't it! The only thing that is different at Sea World for a wish family is feeding the dolphins. You get to do this for free and if you let them know you are a Wish Family then they usually do what they can to make sure you have a good experience.

Most families are only able to have those 5 full days...so you are not alone there. In fact, several of the families on recent trips have had 5 nights instead of 6 for some reason and had 4 park days for the 6 days worth of tickets.

Hitting 1900 Park Fare is a good idea on that first day!! :) Good thinking! I think orientation at GKTW is either going to be at 3:30 or 7:00 (ish)...you can just tell them you won't be there at 3:30 :confused3...??

MK - BBB and CRT! :yay::cheer2::cool1:

No clue on Universal food...maybe someone else can help you here! If you don't get any answers here, you can post on the Wish Trippers thread directly and they can tell you.

Hopefully when you get to Sci Fi, they will be able to get you a table together. Make sure they are aware you are on a wish trip! And Epcot in the morning sounds good! Soarin is my favorite!!

And Thursday night...make sure to plan to be at GKTW for the Christmas party! :) It is the best party (from what I read here...we missed it since our dates did not include a Thursday night)...

Maybe for Friday you could do Sea World first thing and just feed the dolphins and then head to Universal/IOA if you wanted after that?

The buffet that we found to be so good was "Backstage at Believe"...it was not terribly expensive...included drinks and fabulous desserts...(they were making bananas foster right there! YUM!). It is also a backstage sort of show right beside the training pools where they show you how they feed them, etc - Shamu just about came and sat with us at our table :scared1: - and you get VIP seats for the Believe show, if you wanted to do that. I think that lunch is at 11:15 or something like that...if you are looking to try Sea World food again. But it is a pre-pay deal, you have to call and get ressies so that they plan for you.

Your plans look awesome! :) I think I answered all of your questions...and then some! :rolleyes: :goodvibes

twinmum

03-23-2009, 04:49 PM

Your plans look great - sounds like you ahve a pretty good idea what you want to do, and I also agree it's wise to accept that you just cannot do everything. Remember that while you might visit GKTW again, you won't stay there again, so relish it as much as you can. You may be surprised how much fun the girls have just hanging around GKTW.

We really enjoyed SeaWorld - our twin boys are age 10. As well as being given free food for the dolphins, I believe Wish Kids are also given food for the stingrays (we saw this after we'd bought ours!). As for people food, we had a delicious and fun lunch at Shark's Underwater Grill, complete with huge aqaurium...although I've heard mixed reviews. Our food was great! Also, it was unplanned, so we were pleased to get in without a reservation (we arrived just before 12:00). We sat up at the bar, at barstools...and the bar itself is also a very shallow aquarium, with lots of spots for the little fishies to zip in and out and around. The boys were very well entertained while they waited for their lunch!

We had a great day at SeaWorld, but then one of Mark's mini-wishes was that he feed the dolphins, so I booked (and paid for separately) an in-depth dolphin tour which included lots of info on training etc and a longer, more intimate experience with the dolphins.

At Universal, we had lunch at Thunder Falls Terrace, in the Jurassic Park area of Islands of Adventure one day - healthier than your usual fast food fare and pretty good, and the other day we ate at the International Food and Film Festival and it was, well, just OK. We did stay for dinner one night and went to Bubba Gumps - the boys love shrimp and they really spoiled us!

Hope this helps!
Alison

tbelfonti

03-24-2009, 09:54 PM

And now a pic of my Maddie.http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v1928/107/22/1075877431/n1075877431_30258324_1181.jpg (linked from my Facebook account - not positive it's going to work so let me know if it doesn't).

Today was Olivia's One Year Fontan-iversary.

Here's a letter I sent to her dr's and the hospital that treated her:

A year ago there was a little girl who was three. She was very limited
in her activities. She couldn't walk up the driveway. A flight of
stairs would leave her winded. Blue lips, purple fingers and toes were
the norm.

March 24, 2008 changed all that. That was the day of Olivia's
Fontan (heart surgery) at CT Children's Medical Center. Within two weeks
she was running UP the driveway. She could sprint 3/4 of a mile. She
runs down the driveway, arms extended and says "I can FLY!" while her
blonde hair flies behind her.

The little girl who was limited now takes swim lessons and attends
gymnastics class. She has boundless energy. She bounces and twirls
around the house nonstop to the point that we actually ask her to stop
jumping. And then we laugh and rejoice that she CAN jump and twirl.

You are to thank for all of this. You gave us this amazing child and
saved her three times. You've allowed us to be a complete family. One
who will never take anything for granted.

From the bottom of our hearts we thank you, thank you, thank you.

We celebrated with cupcakes at school as well as dinner at Outback for "green beans".

We've come a LONG way and I'm so proud of my beautiful baby girl...

maroo

03-24-2009, 10:01 PM

Aw...

Precious. The picture definitely worked. :hug:

The little girl who was limited now takes swim lessons and attends
gymnastics class. She has boundless energy. She bounces and twirls
around the house nonstop to the point that we actually ask her to stop
jumping. And then we laugh and rejoice that she CAN jump and twirl.

We rejoice with you!!! That is something we certainly can't take for granted in this life...

Bless you guys tonight! A good anniversary!!!

that's nice

03-24-2009, 10:24 PM

tbelfonti

03-25-2009, 07:42 AM

Tim - when we go to CCMC for surgeries, after the PICU, we recover on the 8th floor because it's "clean".

I'm off to read your trip report!!!! :goodvibes

maroo

03-25-2009, 09:38 AM

I just finished my trip report and I was checking out some pre-trip reports. My daughter spent (and still spends) many days at CCMC. We have loved the care she receives, and are thankful for the doctors and nurses that have taken care of her. I hope you have a great time and I will be following along. We will be taking a wish trip as well (not scheduled yet) and it will be fun seeing how your planning goes!!!!!:goodvibes

Tim

I am totally going to do a plug for this TR...I was actually directed there by a "regular" DISer...(non Wish Trip or Big Give DISer)...and it is a GREAT TR! His daughter is a cancer survivor and she is precious! I love the pics, etc...so if you are enjoying the Wish Trips, you would probably enjoy this one, too. Who knows...maybe one day she will be a Disney Wish Kid.

tbelfonti

03-25-2009, 09:58 AM

I just read his trip report in two hours - the entire thing!!! It was wonderfully written and I found out that they live very close to us. It's a Small World

twob4him

03-25-2009, 04:24 PM

Hello! I love hearing all about your trip! Your girls are beautiful and just reading about all they have been through made me cry! I am so excited that you all are getting to go to Disney! :goodvibes

teresajoy

03-25-2009, 04:36 PM

I wanted to share a pic of my baby :)

This is my Olivia with her SB. This moment was AMAZING for her and for me.

http://www.olivia-ann.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/liv_sb-300x224.jpg

I'll post some of Maddie this evening. I don't have anything available here at work to me ;)

How precious is she!!!!
And now a pic of my Maddie.http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v1928/107/22/1075877431/n1075877431_30258324_1181.jpg (linked from my Facebook account - not positive it's going to work so let me know if it doesn't).

Today was Olivia's One Year Fontan-iversary.

Here's a letter I sent to her dr's and the hospital that treated her:

We celebrated with cupcakes at school as well as dinner at Outback for "green beans".

We've come a LONG way and I'm so proud of my beautiful baby girl...

Maddie is just beautiful!! You have gorgeous daughters!!

Oh, the letter had me in tears!!! :hug:

tricia

03-25-2009, 08:41 PM

We just returned from Universal and enjoyed Mythos (at IOA), Pastamore, and Margaritaville, both at CityWalk for our meals.

poohnpigletCA

03-26-2009, 11:51 AM

Your girls are so sweet. I can not wait to read more!

We also have an Olivia that loves pink and Princess Aurora (that was her costume for 2 years.) She just turned 5.

tbelfonti

04-01-2009, 01:11 PM

that's nice

04-01-2009, 01:31 PM

I got a call from our Wish Granters last night. She has our packet ready for us! :banana:

However, due to scheduling conflicts (read: March madness) we are not getting together for another 2 weeks.

The girls are getting SO excited to go to Disney. Although Maddie is challenging us with her schooling so I had to threaten that she would be staying home with the grandparents (like I could EVER do that to her :rotfl:). I spent the weekend going through Olivia's closet and she has enough sundresses to wear one per day for a week with some leftovers. LOL Not sure where they come from but she's hooked up!

Is it too early to pack? 26 days to go!!!!

Wow 26 days! That is great!

If it was up to me I'd be packing the night before.... but on our last trip DW started the packing 2 weeks before. It actually was nice being 'mostly' done, because the day before we left she ended up working till 11pm. We just had a few small items to get put into out luggage. By what I read on the DIS some people start packing months in advance... so 26 days wouldn't be too bad!!!LOL:rotfl::laughing::rotfl:

Eyore4Ever149

04-01-2009, 02:04 PM

How exciting, I hope you have a wonderful trip filled with pixie dust!

tbelfonti

04-06-2009, 08:02 PM

The Big Give starts!!!!!

Today we came home to find a package from the fairy godmothers!!!!

The girls were SO excited - thanks SO much to CATHY and her family in NJ - the girls LOVED their outfits. And I had to convince Olivia she couldn't bring the necklace to school tomorrow because it would be destroyed LOL

A link to all the pics:

The Big Give (http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2019466&id=1075877431&l=316fc542ac)
Highlights:

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2704/107/22/1075877431/n1075877431_30374848_5183802.jpg

You can see the JOY in her face! She LOVED the skirt!!!
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2704/107/22/1075877431/n1075877431_30374854_6507015.jpg

Maddie doing her princess wave:
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2704/107/22/1075877431/n1075877431_30374855_6047133.jpg

The girls say THANK YOU!

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2704/107/22/1075877431/n1075877431_30374856_5773742.jpg

AND, we received our welcome packet in the mail from GKTW - it's really happening!!!

that's nice

04-06-2009, 08:06 PM

The girls look sooo excited!!!!!

So did you start the packing? Keep some room for those awesome clothes!!!:goodvibes

twob4him

04-06-2009, 08:36 PM

Oh goodie! The girls look so cute in their outfits! They're both such beautiful girls! I hope the outfits fit ok! I made them according to the measurements but you just never know until they actually put them on, whether they will fit or not! :goodvibes
And you got your GKTW packet?? It's getting close!! :cool1::cool1::cool1: Its funny, you wait and wait and wait for the trip and then all of the sudden it sneaks up on you! ;)
Many prayers and well wishes and I hope you all have a fantastic trip filled with great memories!!! :cloud9:

teresajoy

04-06-2009, 10:06 PM

Is it too early to pack? 26 days to go!!!!
Hold off for a little bit on that packing, more suprises are coming your way!!! ;)

I love the outfits Cathy sent!!! The girls look so cute and excited!!!

Thanks so much for sharing the pictures!

jenb1023

04-08-2009, 12:20 PM

Love the photos of the girls and the outfits! Thanks for sharing the photos with us and nice job on the outfits Cathy!

From what I have read, GKTW sounds like an amazing place! I am sure you guys will have a wonderful time and it will be time for your trip to start before you know it!

tbelfonti

04-11-2009, 08:26 AM

Big Give Part 2!

Link to the entire album of pics:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2019696&id=1075877431&l=9457b153a7

The girls received ANOTHER package on Friday. Maddie knew immediately it was a Big Give package because of the "loopy writing" (read: Disney font) and the princess stickers all over the box.

reading the card
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1123428800679_1075877431_30379297_8089353_n.j pg

What's inside?
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1123428960683_1075877431_30379301_1907255_n.j pg

What I LOVE is that Maddie is always thrilled that they include her as well :lovestruc. She doesn't expect it - she's an amazing kid!!!

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1123429000684_1075877431_30379302_8230413_n.j pg

They had some sort of intuition that a specific one belonged to each of them. There was no discussion about it - just a handoff.
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1123429040685_1075877431_30379303_4443519_n.j pg

Olivia loves her crayon rollup! (And I don't know why this child's eyes don't stay open when I take pics! I didn't even have the flash on!)
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1123429120687_1075877431_30379305_5639902_n.j pg

Maddie loves hers as well!
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1123429160688_1075877431_30379306_5232792_n.j pg

The girls say THANKS FOR EVERYTHING Sarah from TN and her entire family :lovestruc:lovestruc:lovestruc

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1123429280691_1075877431_30379309_1932975_n.j pg

maroo

04-14-2009, 07:53 PM

oh how precious!!! I have no idea how I missed those pics! I love the eye things!!! :)

tbelfonti

04-15-2009, 01:02 PM

The countdown is ON!

We're down to 12 days :dance3:. Taking the advice of my beautiful and SMART mother, we have told the girls it's 13 days. This way they will SLEEP the night before. Unlike their mom who will be :yay: all night long ;)

Friday the girls and I ran around getting things for the trip. Sandals, socks, toiletries, new shorts for me, etc. Fun stuff ;) We haven't started packing yet, but the suitcases are in the front living room and we're starting to make piles of things that will be packed. I'm SO ready to pack but know I need to wait a bit longer.

It's so surreal that in 12 days we'll be IN Disney, soaking up the beautiful sunshine!

We meet with our Wish coordinators on Friday evening to get our packet. I'm debating whether or not to suggest we just meet at the local Dairy Queen for Ice Cream - not sure what to expect but would like this last meeting to a be a bit "fun". What do you guys think?

WishMom09

04-15-2009, 01:11 PM

WOW 12 more days! How exciting! That was smart to tell them 13 more days!
I hear ya on the wanting to start packing! We still have 24 more days...but I am so ready to start packing! We also have piles started! :rotfl: They seem to grow everyday!

3princesses+aprince

04-15-2009, 02:19 PM

I just found your report! Your girls are so beautiful. The big give gifts were great, and you only have 12 days until you are all in Disney World. Yay!!!!

We're taking our first trip in 27 days, oh, and I've already started packing, so pack away, it's fun!!!!!

tbelfonti

04-18-2009, 10:11 PM

Yesterday we got our Wish packet! :cool1: They brought the girls sunglasses, throw away cameras, Princess stickers and Princess tattoos. They gave us a g/c to Disney as well as a g/c to Rainforest Cafe. Plus the check (OMG, the check!!)

They also brought this cake
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1129212705273_1075877431_30390875_2224424_n.j pg which was actually cupcakes (yummy!!!)

We were given a hat from Disney http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1129217905403_1075877431_30390907_8029560_n.j pg - that we were told Olivia should wear so the CM's will recognize us as a Wish family. Um, she's a complete PRINCESS and will NOT want to wear a baseball cap LOL. They also gave us these stickers for the rest of us: http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1129218025406_1075877431_30390910_2721112_n.j pg Not sure what to think about this but the other thread told me we'll be ok without wearing the hat.

So then TODAY we received another TWO packets from our fairy godmothers! The timing couldn't have been more perfect as Maddie's having a bit of a hard time with the attention Olivia's gotten. Maddie was the one to get the mail and Olivia was at gymnastics - so it was perfect.

Thanks so much to our fairy Godmother in Modesto, CA for this GORGEOUS outfit for Maddie. She LOVED IT! Excuse the bedhead - she was still in her jammies before the outfit came ;)
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1129213025281_1075877431_30390883_4208549_n.j pg

And then Olivia came home and opened HER outfit from bclydia. LOVE THIS - it's SO cute and will go great with Maddie's Minnie outfit that Cathy made her :)
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1129213345289_1075877431_30390891_2740462_n.j pg

Thanks ladies! You guys are amazing!!!

Here's a link to all the pics from today: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2020221&id=1075877431&l=119992f8fa

fairygoodmother

04-19-2009, 12:20 AM

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/th_hs016.snc1/2979_1129213025281_1075877431_30390883_4208549_n.j pg

It's so sweet to see Maddie in her outfit. Thank you for sharing the picture! It looks like it fit her okay - Princess Maddie, have a WONDERFUL time sharing the world with your sister!

FairyGOODmother Darla

that's nice

04-19-2009, 12:31 AM

Your daughters are so cute! Today was a perfect day to do some outside modeling!!!!:goodvibes

3princesses+aprince

04-19-2009, 09:38 AM

Awww, those outfits are so great!!! Your girls look like they are enjoying them, how cute!!!

jenb1023

04-20-2009, 08:03 AM

The outfits are adorable and so are the girls!

Maddie seems like a great big sister and am glad to read she got to have a special moment all her own.

You guys are going to have a great trip!

tbelfonti

04-20-2009, 07:29 PM

poohnpigletCA

04-20-2009, 10:05 PM

So today there were TWO packages waiting for us! Olivia wasn't happy to have to wait for Maddie but since they were addressed to the "B family" - I made her wait ;)

The first package was from our new friend Sierra from CA! Homemade slippers, a tutu AND beautiful bows! Maddie was willing to even try on a bow!!! Olivia LOVED the tutu and wanted to sleep with it LOL.

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1130203970054_1075877431_30395584_6184814_n.j pg

Thanks so much Sierra and Jen!!!

All pics can be found here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2020407&id=1075877431&l=29807cf9b8

Hi, Karen here I am so glad you got the package. We had to change boxes at the post office and the note I wrote you got left out.

Slippers, my MIL Donna made them. She is not on the Disboards (yet). She was guessing on the shoes size and I am glad that they fit.

Tutu. my 8 yo daughter Sierra made it. :cool1: Olivia can wear the tutu over shorts or under the beautiful Aurora skirt that Cathy made.

bows, I am kicking myself that I did not make Maddie one to match her Ariel outfit that Darla made. Darla is my girls Auntie and we saw that cute outfit before she shipped it. You would think I would have made a matching bow.:eek:

Have a wonderful trip! We are planning our first Disneyworld trip for later this year.

that's nice

04-20-2009, 11:48 PM

I wanted to be the first to do a 1 week and counting dance for you guys!!!!:cool1::cool1::cool1: (well 8 days for the girlsLOLOL)

jenb1023

04-21-2009, 06:35 AM

I am so glad the autograph books arrived safely and that you like them! Thanks for posting photos! Have a great trip!

BeckySob

04-21-2009, 02:54 PM

Your girls are such beauties! I am excited for you all on your upcoming adventure! Getting all them packages in the mail! WOW.....it's so great to see the amazing people out there doing good for others! I can't wait to hear about your trip! Have a blast!

3princesses+aprince

04-22-2009, 09:32 AM

Oh wow, what are guys down to, like 5 more days!!! You must be so excited!
I love the autograph books, very cute, and more great big give gifts I see!!! Are you all packed?

tbelfonti

04-22-2009, 10:14 AM

Are we packed? ;)

My living room looks like something exploded in it.

Olivia's clothes are done and in the suitcase.
Maddie's 85% there - I needed to wash some of her new clothes ahead of time. The remaining outfits are sitting on the couch in the living room ready to be packed.

Arnie and I? Not so much! LOL. My clothes have been pulled out but I need to get them in their bags. Arnie claims his stuff is ready to be bagged, but it's his issue to get his stuff together.

OK - let me explain ... I'm a weird packer. Everyone's outfits get packed into a zip lock bag (outfit, socks, etc). So if we're going for 7 days, there should be 28 bags at the end - 7 bags for each person. I just don't like the idea of someone riffling through my underthings and I don't have to worry that my stuff getting ruined by my luggage getting soaked due to rain or someone else's mispacking. Yes, I'm uptight LOL.

Toiletries are looking good. I have everything I need to pack and have started my quart zip lock bags.

I'd say we're about 50% there. :) We are VERY excited!!!! :banana::banana::cool1:

twob4him

04-22-2009, 05:23 PM

bclydia

04-22-2009, 06:06 PM

Hi!
I'm so glad Olivia liked her Minnie outfit and that it fits! Thank you so much for the lovely card too Olivia!
Have a wonderful time!!!
Lydia

tbelfonti

04-23-2009, 09:24 PM

Getting down to the wire!

TeresaJoy outdid herself.

Olivia wanted an Ariel dress - one where "she has legs"

I give you this:

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1131499322437_1075877431_30399091_3435545_n.j pg
and this: http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1131499362438_1075877431_30399092_7578301_n.j pg

Olivia was BEAMING!

And there's Maddie's outfit which was PERFECT:
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1131499442440_1075877431_30399094_3754852_n.j pg

I only got one shot of Maddie because she has a ton of school work to do to make sure she has everything done (this week's plus next week's)

Yesterday was a pretty great day. This is a pic of my baby - the one they said wouldn't LIVE - swimming without a bubble (the teacher was right there and had just pulled her hand away thus the standing on end ponytail LOL)

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1131496882376_1075877431_30399073_6926684_n.j pg

Here's a link to all the pics: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2020603&id=1075877431&l=6411b08933

teresajoy

04-23-2009, 10:43 PM

tbelfonti

04-24-2009, 10:25 AM

twob4him

04-24-2009, 07:42 PM

It helps to have connections...

My husband knows someone who works at MAW in AZ. He had sent her an email about the baseball cap. Today we received 4 MAW buttons from our local chapter. I am relieved to have them in hand, but I feel guilty. The guilt is a powerful feeling, isn't it?

Guilt shmilt......you NEED wish buttons....I can't imagine how a hat would work the same way....the CM's look for the buttons not a hat, right?! So quit feeling guilty and enjoy your trip! I hope you all get as spoiled as you deserve!

Teresa - I love the dress/outfits you made! They're awesome!!!! I can see how happy the girls are with them! I am sure they will have a great time wearing them!:cool1:

So its Friday, which is basically like Sat. And Monday doesn't count cause you'll be there...so by my fuzzy Disney Math....you only have 1 day left!!!! :eek::rotfl::eek::rotfl:

jenb1023

04-24-2009, 08:59 PM

Love the new outfits - the girls look great! Have a wonderful trip - I can't wait to hear all about it!

BrandyC1974

04-25-2009, 09:06 PM

Hi. Your girls are beautiful. It is less than two days til you will be in Disney. I have no doubt that you all will have a magical time. I can't wait to read about your trip when you get back. Have a safe trip and come back with lots of pictures!!

that's nice

04-26-2009, 09:41 AM

I hope you bring your cold weather clothes when you head to Orlando!! Yesterday's high here was 91 and the high temp in Orlando was 'only' 83!!!!!:rotfl2::rotfl: Gonna be another 90 today too!!!:cool1:

Have a great trip!!! Talk to you when you get back!:goodvibes

Tim

tbelfonti

04-26-2009, 01:04 PM

Big Give part 6?

Friday was like Christmas around here. Seriously! The postman stopped by and FedEx. It was a GREAT day!

Thanks so much to Tracie in TX for these GREAT Wish shirts!
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1132379944452_1075877431_30402551_6059324_n.j pg

Arnie's: http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1132379984453_1075877431_30402552_5416771_n.j pg

Mine: http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1132380024454_1075877431_30402553_773446_n.jp g

And last but definitely not least, Maddie's: http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1132380064455_1075877431_30402554_1060081_n.j pg

While we were opening these shirts - FedEx showed up. Now I mentioned in my last post that Arnie has a friend who works at MAW in AZ. This box came in: http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1132380104456_1075877431_30402555_7902493_n.j pg

MAW shirts - notice the confetti and streamers? They are EVERYWHERE in my house now. I need to vacuum in a bad way now!
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs016.snc1/2979_1132380264460_1075877431_30402559_2934211_n.j pg

Included in the box was every possible MAW item they had in the office. Stickers, shirts, canvas bags, notebooks, pins, bracelets, keychains, etc. Chaos! LOL

So this is it. I have last minute packing to do. And clean the house (vacuum the confetti up LOL). And we're leaving in the morning!

The tears have already started. I was in Mass today and could barely hold it together. This is really happening...

WishMom09

04-26-2009, 09:19 PM

LOVE the Wish shirts! And the cute package from MAW!
I am so excited for your trip! I can't wait to hear all about it and see all of your pictures!

Tracie

04-29-2009, 07:52 PM

I know you are on your trip, but I wanted to say thank you so much to Olivia and Maddie for the really cute thank you note I received today. I was very impressed that you took time, while waiting to be picked up for your magical trip, to write the note. I'm happy you like the shirts and hope your trip was filled with magic and joy.

By the way your card is hanging right above my craft table. Can't wait to hear about your trip!

Tracie

jenb1023

05-03-2009, 08:54 AM

Welcome Home! Hope you had a great trip! Can't wait to hear all about it!

twob4him

05-03-2009, 11:33 AM

We've been running amuck while you were away!!!!
:tiptoe::tongue::car::dancer::hyper::drive:: :rockband: :rainbow::mickeyjum:tigger::sulley::donald::goofy:

Welcome Home!!!! Can't wait to hear all about your trip!!!!

:hug::cheer2::wave2:pixiedust::welcome::welcome: :flower3: :dance3:

WishMom09

05-03-2009, 01:59 PM

Hope you had an awesome time! Can't wait to see some pics and read your TR!

tbelfonti

05-06-2009, 07:03 PM

BACK!

We had an amazing time. Truly amazing.

I'm working on my trip report now - I guess I need to start a new thread? Or can I continue here?

DisneyMom5

05-06-2009, 08:19 PM

BACK!

We had an amazing time. Truly amazing.

I'm working on my trip report now - I guess I need to start a new thread? Or can I continue here?
You can continue here, and request a moderator to change it to trip reports, if that's what you'd like to do! :thumbsup2

Tracie

05-06-2009, 11:36 PM

Welcome Back! Can't wait to "hear" all about it!

Tracie

jenb1023

05-08-2009, 11:32 AM

BACK!

We had an amazing time. Truly amazing.

I'm working on my trip report now - I guess I need to start a new thread? Or can I continue here?

Glad to hear you had a great time! I can't wait to hear all about it and to see the photos!

tbelfonti

05-09-2009, 08:10 PM

Alarm went off at 4:30AM. But of course we're going to DISNEY so I hop out of bed. Arnie and I both showered and once I was completely ready I went in to wake up Maddie. I snuggled her and said "Maddie - it's time to wake up!" she responded with "can't I sleep for another minute?" I said "Sure, but we were going to leave for Disney so..." She immediately popped up and said "HUH? I thought we were leaving in the morning!"

We had them ALL confused as to what day we were leaving so it was cute. She and I woke up Olivia. There is NOTHING sweeter than their cheeks all warm from sleeping. The girls still did not know how we were getting to the airport. We got them dressed and fed. No one asked how we were getting there and we didn't offer.

I wrote out the last of my Thank You cards and ran them to the mailbox. At 5:40AM I was going to send Maddie to bring the garbage outside when I saw the limo! It was a super stretch white limo and gorgeous! Maddie saw it first and she was SO excited cheering.gif. Olivia as well. We called my sister who came down and took pics.

We were on the road to the airport by 5:55AM. Checked in and went through security with no issues (my little seasoned travelers ;)). Grabbed a drink and had some trail mix waiting for boarding. Flew SW in group A 17 - 20 so we were one of the first on the plane. Take off was on time and we had a smooth flight to Orlando. Originally it was the girls and I in one row with Arnie next to us. Olivia ended up switching over to the middle seat next to Arnie halfway down and Maddie laid down across two seats for a while. :lovestruc

We arrived on time and after hitting the bathroom, headed toward baggage. There we met our greeter who was holding a Give Kids the World welcomes Olivia B sign. He helped us gather everything and then walked us to the Avis car check in place. They gave us a Kia Sedona which was NICE and I think we'll end up with a minivan after driving it around for a week.

We hugged our greeter goodbye and headed to the resort. NOTE: The tolls have increased to $1.25 and $0.75 and we nearly didn't have enough to pay for the $0.75 toll (exact change with no attendant ...).

GKTW is on South Bass Rd, just off 192 near Walmart and Mid Evil Times. We pulled up to the House Of Hearts and they were expecting us (due to greeter calling ahead to let them know we're on our way?). Moira checked us in and gave us a brief tour of the area. Our villa wasn't ready so they sent us to have lunch at Katie's Kitchen. Boston Market sponsors Katie's Kitchen and it's the exact food you get there which is yummy.gif. We all ate meatloaf (M would have had more if there had been more on her plate). She finished off her lunch with ice cream from the Ice Cream Parlor (sponsored by Friendly's). Moira called to let us know our Villa was ready and we could stop back when we're ready.

We finished lunch and then another volunteer (Lisa?) drove the girls and I on a golf cart to our Villa (262) while Arnie followed in the van. Olivia got to ride up front while M&I sat in the back. She gave us a tour of what pool was open and showed us to the brand new villa near the Candyland playground in the Gingerbread section of the resort. Our villa had two bedrooms. Kid's bedroom had two twin beds and a FULL bath including a jacuzzi tub and handicapped accessible shower with double sinks. The other bathroom in the hallway had a single sink as well as a tub / shower combo. Obviously this is a place for kids wink.gif. There was a full kitchen stocked with soda, water, vitamin water and milk. Also, a full sized W/D with Tide and Bounce. That washer / dryer was a life saver and we used it daily.

After settling in we walked over to the playground. We had the place to ourselves and the girls had a ball. It was nice b/c it was covered so we had sunlight and yet it wasn't too sunny. I got some great video of them singing and swinging. We stayed for close to an hour before going back to get ready for dinner.

Dinner was at 1900 Park Fair. Holy crap could their self park be any further? It was forever away! The girls decided to wear their Minnie outfits - didn't necessarily work for Cinderella but that's what they wanted. They were adorable in them. We were seated in the same exact seat as last time. So it's OUR table. We grabbed food prior to the Prince coming out. The girls were quite smitten and both said something about not washing their hands ever again after he kissed them lol.gif. Cindy was next and she was a doll. Lady Tremaine was a riot. She complimented the girls on their red outfits b/c red is such a royal color. Also she said that Olivia reminded her of herself as a child "very serious - that means she's of good stock". I asked Anastasia about singing to us and she said she would check with her mom. As usual she and Drizella were outstanding.

Then Bobbi from MD - character handler - stopped by and said Lady Tremaine and her daughters wished to have a private meet and greet with us. After the celebration waltz, we were to head to the courtyard where the Mary Poppins topiary was. The girls danced the waltz with the prince and then we headed outside. The step sisters were a riot. We got some great pics as well as video. And then I asked them to sing. OMG - Olivia was shaking she was laughing so hard at their singing. Lynne, restaurant mgr, gave the girls special pins. In passing to Arnie I mentioned we needed to get them lanyards. Lynne gets on her blackberry and viola - they had lanyards with special pins that you cannot buy right now!!! While we're outside Cindy and the Prince come out and we got extra time with them as well. After we headed back into the restaurant and Bobbi asked us what our plans were for the rest of the week. I mentioned we were still trying to get into Chef Mickey's but do to scheduling conflict with our orientation at GKTW, we were unable to get a reservation. Lynne gets on her blackberry and viola - we have a reservation for Chef Mickey's on the last full day of our trip. They basically overbooked the restaurant for us.

They were AMAZING. It was probably the best experience at Disney the entire week. Truly magical!

We headed back to the resort and changed into our bathing suits. The girls and I swam for a bit and then checked out the Double Dare show while Arnie went to the orientation. The girls rode the train and the carousel before we had some ice cream :).

I walked the girls back around 8:45 and Arnie got out of orientation at 9PM. We were pretty wiped out and everyone went to bed pretty fast.

Next up CRT and more magic!!!

Tracie

05-09-2009, 09:05 PM

Great start and it sounds like a very magical first day. So happy the girls got to start the trip with special attention, I just love the stepsisters! You know you have to share the pix right?:yay:

Tracie

twob4him

05-09-2009, 10:35 PM

Wow what a full day! I love that you had a wonderful 1900 Park Fare experience!!! How magical that you got a special meet and greet! Glad the girls are enjoying everything so far! Your villa sounds wonderful too! Can't wait to hear more!!!

tbelfonti

05-09-2009, 10:55 PM

Here are some pictures from our day...

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20day%201/100_3875.jpg

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20day%201/100_3898.jpg

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20day%201/100_3918.jpg

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20day%201/100_3968.jpg

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20day%201/100_3996.jpg

tbelfonti

05-09-2009, 11:20 PM

Our first full day. Everyone slept well and we headed for the Gingerbread House around 8AM. Had breakfast, rode the carousel and saw Blue from Blues Clues in the Castle of Miracles.

We then hopped into the car and headed to MK. Parking was free with Olivia's GKTW button. There was a line for the monorail so we took the boat over. While waiting for the boat the girls wrote their names on the pavement in chalk. I had to remind myself that crowds / timing didn't matter on this trip b/c we had the button and could bypass everything.

As we walked into the park a CM asked for Olivia's and Maddie's autographs :lovestruc. LOVE when they do that... We met with the Mayor of Main St along with the choir director who was a RIOT. The walk through for the castle was closed due to the show so we walked around and ran into the Fairy Godmother! Our GKTW button allowed us to "cut the lines" for character meets and greets which was an awesome perk. Next stop was IASW, then Peter Pan, Carousel and Dumbo. Olivia wanted to visit with Ariel but we convinced her to wait until after BBB.

We had BBB done - it was a pleasant experience although I wish they had sat them next to each other which would have made it easier on us. Maddie's hair - I didn't know HOW they got all of it up there (now I realize it was gel - lots and lots of gel - since her hair was short). We went to see Ariel after and she LOVED the autograph book that we had. Plus she commented that Olivia's dress was just like her "first dress!". I asked her if she was ever in the parks "with her legs" - and she said "Only in the parade ... unless I feel like taking a walk".

We then went over to Pecos Bill's for lunch. Arnie and the girls had a burger. I had pulled pork. The meal was "ok". We tried convincing Olivia to ride Splash but no interest so we put her on Big Thunder Mtn which she HATED. (sigh). We then took the train over to ToonTown and saw Aurora, Belle and Cinderella as well as Rosetta, Tinkerbelle and Ismarella (sp?) - the yellow one LOL). We got RIGHT in to see my boyfriend Mickey and his girl Minnie :lovestruc.

After visiting characters, Olivia wanted out of the Ariel dress b/c she was getting hot. So we switched her into a sundress and she played in the playground while Arnie and Maddie rode Goofy's Barnstormer. We caught part of the castle show (Dreams Come True) and then went to the Wish Lounge to cool off some. The ONE complaint I had about the lounge was that we had to walk through the First Aid area to get there.

After the lounge we caught some of the parade. The girls were REALLY into waving to all the characters and it was moving (as usual) for me. We had a little bit of time to kill prior to going to CRT so we rode Aladdin's Carpet Ride. Jasmine was not around b/c of the parade which bummed Maddie out.

CRT - we got there right around 4pm. The girls were selected as "Princesses for the Day" so they got to meet with Cinderella first and "open the restaurant". There were two packages waiting for us from another DISBoard member. They were adorable banks (one princess / one castle) along with stuffed Mickey / Minnie. The table was right on the windows and had a bunch of castle confetti on it (and yes, I scooped it all up and brought it home LOL).

Let me preface this next comment with this: I was not expecting much from this meal. We were not impressed with Breakfast here in the past and figured we were paying for the experience.

We.LOVED.This Meal!!! Arnie ordered the BLT salad, lamb chops and had a chocolate buckle for dinner. I had a greens salad, prime rib and coffee creme brulle (sp). The girls had fruit, hot dogs, fries and ice cream sundaes including crowns made out of chocolate. There was a show after dinner with the mice and Fairy Godmother. She actually talks and sings during it and of course, it's about Dreams Coming True. I was just shy of sobbing during the entire thing. Immediately after, our waiter brought us over near the kitchen where we got a private M&G with the Fairy Godmother herself. She was AMAZING and I had completely lost it at that point LOL. She hugged and kissed the girls goodbye and then hugged me LOL. Even Arnie was choked up. They had waiters on either side to block off the area so we had privacy and no one else could see the FG - just us. :lovestruc

We then went and got to see Pooh, Piglet and Tigger right outside Pooh's ride. Pooh kept hugging and hugging Olivia. (Again, the tears). Pooh LOVED the autograph book page with his picture on it and wanted to keep it for himself LOL. Maddie & Piglet had some special moments as well when he found out she loved him. Tigger was a riot. Just an amazing experience as always.

We rode some rides, including Haunted Mansion where Olivia dropped her GKTW button in the Hitchhiking Ghosts room. We contacted a CM on our way out of the ride and waited around for 20 minutes while they attempted to retrieve it. O was very upset - thinking we couldn't get a new one. They could see it but not retrieve it. It was late at this point - 8:15pm so it wasn't as if we would NEED it the rest of the day.

Arnie then got in line to grab funnel cakes while I went with the girls for a bathroom break as well as a hunt for lollipops. The line in the stores was WAY too long so I convinced them to eat the funnel cake instead. We grabbed a spot just past Walt and watched the fireworks. They were amazing as always and I fought the tears LOL. Tink was not flying that night and I think it was a bit too windy for her wings...

We rode the boat back to the TTC and grabbed the first tram back to the car. We were back at GKTW by 9:45pm so not bad at all!

Next up: Universal...

tbelfonti

05-09-2009, 11:30 PM

Pictures from Day 2:

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20Day%202/100_4043.jpg

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20Day%202/100_4045.jpg

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20Day%202/100_4062.jpg

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20Day%202/100_4090.jpg

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20Day%202/100_4093.jpg

The banks we received at CRT from a wonderful DISBoard member :)
http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20Day%202/100_4171.jpg

He wouldn't let her go - she wasn't a Pooh fan before this ... she is now!!!

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20Day%202/100_4190.jpg

Maddie loves her some Piglet. Almost 9 years old and still sleeps with her Classic Piglet :lovestruc:lovestruc
http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa210/tbelfonti/Disney%2009%20Day%202/100_4191.jpg

Eyore4Ever149

05-10-2009, 07:56 AM

So glad CRT went so well!!!

that's nice

05-10-2009, 08:08 AM

Great pictures!!

I love that Fairy Godmother... she seems like she if the 'official' one! LOL It seems like the girls were having a great time so far! I can't wait to hear more!:goodvibes

jenb1023

05-10-2009, 08:12 AM

Woo-hoo - two updates!

I love reading about all of the special treatment the girls got - especially the private time at 1900 Park Fare and with the Fairy Godmother. Your descriptions were making me teary so I can't imagine being there. I am so glad the CM was able to get you into Chef Mickey's.

Love the minnie outfits and their BBB makeovers and outfits as well as the Ariel and Pooh and gang meet and greets.

Thank you so much for saying that the characters loved the autograph books!!! I am so glad they worked out okay! (They were my first ones so I was a little nervous.)

Can't wait to read more!

3princesses+aprince

05-10-2009, 09:25 AM

Great updates so far!!! Looks like your girls had a nice time!! My kids don't know about our limo either, can't wait for them to see it!

maroo

05-10-2009, 11:49 AM

Fantastic!! How cool that you guys have gotten TWO private meet and greets and have only had one day in the parks! I am sorry you guys lost the button... I know how stressed we were when we lost it!

I am enjoying this and all of the pics are great! Your girls were so beautiful with their hair all up. :)

twob4him

05-10-2009, 09:33 PM

Yaaaaa I love the updates and all of the pics! What a great day at MK! They girls look wonderful with their BBB hairdos! Glad CRT was yummy! :cool1:

tbelfonti

05-11-2009, 10:49 AM

We let the kids "sleep in" which means 7AM wakeup from them LOL.

Grabbed b/f at the Gingerbread House, rode the carousel and we were off to Universal.

We were parked pretty close. Man, is it a HIKE from the car to the park. The only good thing is the shade both in the garage and on the walking path. We get in the gate and they ask us to stop so they can do a quick survey for us. Sure, no problem. We're standing there and some JERK makes a comment "Nice place to stop" - My head snapped around and I would have said something to him but he was gone. Jerk - obviously we're not in Disney anymore :(. I was ticked, ticked, TICKED. Then the CM proceeds to tell us how he got written up b/c of an altercation he had with a guest b/c the guest was rude (again, we're not in Disney anymore).

First stop was Jimmy Neutron. Olivia is NOT a fan of being bounced around so she and I did the stationary seating at the front of the ride. She loved the movie that played with it so she was happy and enjoyed it. Cute ride / show. Right across the street was Shrek 4D. We got spotted with our button right away so we were brought in the back door. Cute show - loved the preshow with Pinocchio and the 3 Little Pigs. Olivia enjoyed this one as well.

Leaving Shrek, we saw the Shrek Meet & Greet area. Shrek was out with Donkey. Shrek noticed our button and pointed us out to the CM so we waited NO time. Donkey talks and he was AMAZING. He poses and had me rolling. At one point he asked the girls a question and they didn't respond so he had his mouth closed and was mumbling "they're IGNORING ME!" == it was great! We wanted to see Fiona but she wasn't out and by the time we came back it was too late. Oh well...

We then saw Shaggy riding the van with Scooby Doo. Shaggy stopped the van so we could get a pic with the girls. Another person after wanted to get a pic and he said "Sorry - gotta run!". It was so nice to see the special treatment we were getting already.

Now, I'm Miss Disney. I can get you anywhere at any park without a map. However, at Universal - I'm completely out of my element LOL. So we wandered a bit trying to find Terminator and finally found it. We saw Woody Woodpecker and his g/f (what IS her name?). We waited in line for them and got "scolded" for waiting in line. No waiting in line for us!!! Terminator had just started so we decided to hang out and wait for the Madagascar characters to come out. We got to see them first and they were GREAT. The penguins were hysterical.

We got some lunch advice from the character handlers and ended up eating at Mel's Diner (indoor a/c counter service). The food was "ok" - edible and not horrific but not "OMG THIS IS THE BEST I'VE EVER EATEN". We then headed over to ET and rode that ride. Olivia tolerated it, but wasn't a fan (jerky movements are not her favorite thing). We saw the Man in the Yellow Hat with George. The Man was great - reminded me to keep an eye on my monkeys. Since I call them that we had a good chuckle about that. The character handlers then brought us right over to Shaggy and Scooby so we got their autographs and more pictures with them. Next Arnie and Maddie rode Woody's rollercoaster while Olivia checked out the Curious George section. Bring bathing suits for this area - we didn't and she was bummed out.

We skipped Barney because neither girl was ever into it that much. We then headed to the Simpson ride. We got as far as getting into the room where you get into the ride vehicle and Olivia decided it wasn't something she wanted to do. Hindsight - thank GOD we didn't ride it b/c it was the old Back to the Future Ride and she would have LOST it on that ride.

While waiting for Arnie and Maddie, we saw Lisa, Bart and Homer Simpson. Lisa wrote in their books "Lisa loves you. Bart smells" LOL.

We then went over to Men In Black. I was hesitant about putting her on this. Go figure, she LOVED it and rode it twice (they let us ride again immediately after getting off). The spinning part of the ride makes me want to be sick but she loved it so I gave in LOL).

We headed over to the Jaws ride. I'll ALWAYS remember this story when we're in that part of the park: Back in '01 we went to Disney / Universal with my parents, sister, brother in law and my nephew who is the same age as Maddie. A couple came over to us near the Jaws ride and gave us a stuffed Bugs Bunny that they won on those carnival games. We kept that Bugs for a LONG time and it's just funny b/c they probably forgot ALL about it, but I remember every time I think of Universal.

The girls enjoyed Jaws although were not a fan of the flames / heat caused by the gas explosions. Maddie got a bit wet and was mad that we laughed. She's always trying to be FIRST so we let her go first into the boat and she got wet LOL.

Next we did Twister (man, did you know Bill from Big Love was in that movie? I was so excited to see that LOL). The girls did NOT like the heat caused by the explosions and Olivia did NOT like the floor shaking. What are you going to do?

Finally - the Mummy ride. Arnie rode with Maddie first. She is JUST tall enough to ride it and she found it too intense for her so I rode solo. Note: Universal has a GREAT baby swap location for this ride. It's inside and they show cartoons in there. Olivia would tell you it was too cold in there LOL.

We found Dora in the store before she we outside. It was a very emotional moment for me - because Olivia LOVES Dora. I think Livvy was just in shock to see her. They hugged a lot and it was beautiful (sob).

We headed out and grabbed dinner at Hard Rock Cafe. Maddie didn't want anything on the kid's menu so we shared an appetizer plate. And Yes, the Hard Rock store does give 50% discount to MAW families but not everyone is aware of it, so you have to ASK for the discount. Arnie took advantage of that LOL.

We then headed back to the resort for the Princess & Pirate party (I think). The kids first went to the Spa at GKTW, got their nails done, faces painted and tattoos. Then they got makeup applied as well as got purses, jewelry, wands, and made Pirate maps. Got pics with all the characters. They had this cute coronation ceremony where they announced EVERY child's name (Pirate Sam, Princess Olivia, etc). And they announced at the end "may they live happily ever after" (sob sob sob).

After the party we went BACK to have more ice cream where they were highly entertained by the raccoons eating out of the garbage cans. So cute!

Note: some details about what we did in the am / pm are missing b/c the first time I loaded the pics from my camera to Kodak Gallery they got messed up so I'm missing chunks of events and the order of things in the evening.

HeatherSue

05-11-2009, 11:06 AM

I just wanted to pop in and let you know I'm reading! I love your TR so far! I can't wait to see pictures of Universal! The last time I went there they had just opened and had 2 rides running (ET and Back to the Future)!

BrandyC1974

05-12-2009, 02:25 PM

The girls enjoyed Jaws although were not a fan of the flames / heat caused by the gas explosions. Maddie got a bit wet and was mad that we laughed. She's always trying to be FIRST so we let her go first into the boat and she got wet LOL.[/i]

I had a similar experience on Jaws with my daughter Rebecca (6yrs old at the time). She was whining the whole trip about being "FIRST" on everything. So......when we got to Jaws, she was basically saying that "she had to be first". I tried to warn her that there might be "sharks" in the water but she of course didn't want to listen. So, I let her get on first, then me, then my brother, my oldest daughter Liz, and then my dad. So, when we get to the part when "Jaws" jumps out of the water, guess what she did?? She jumped (and I do mean literally JUMPED) over me and tried to get over my brother, but he stopped her. She would have jumped off of the other end of the boat if my brother hadn't stopped her; she was soooo scared :scared1:)

After that, she never complained about me wanting her to ride on the "inside" of the ride again. :rotfl2:

So far, your trip is sounding Magical!! Can't wait to read more!!!! :surfweb:

jenb1023

05-14-2009, 01:32 PM

Love the Universal update and all of the great character meetings. Looking forward to the next update!

tbelfonti

05-19-2009, 12:57 PM

I know I owe you pics - life has been in the way lately...
Today we decided to do Hollywood Studios AND Epcot as we wanted to spend two full days in MK.

First stop at DHS was Tower of Terror for Maddie & I and RnR for Arnie & Maddie. I was going to do RnR with Maddie after but I felt bad having Olivia wait all that time while we rode. While waiting we got her an Ariel tattoo which she loved. I also offered some park tips to some people waiting with us. I love doing that.

We next headed over to see the timing of Ariel's show which I LOVE. We had just missed the show so decided to go into the Animation area where we met the two characters from Bolt and also Sorcerer Mickey :lovestruc.

We saw Ariel and oh that show makes me cry every time. I think it's one of the best kept secrets in DHS. We then lost Arnie for a short period of time. I asked him to go get the stroller while the girls and I waited in the shade. He heard me say "get the stroller and meet me at Toy Story Mania" :confused3 Once we solved that issue we rode TSM which is GREAT. There was a little boy waiting in front of us that did NOT want to ride. The parents tried their best but to no avail. The kid was NOT getting on the ride. LOL Olivia loved the ride this year (whew) which was a huge relief. We then saw Buzz and Woody and got some pics with them.

It was lunch time so we made our way over to Sci Fi. We LOVE this place. Originally we planned to have dinner here but were able to walk in and have lunch. We didn't get a car much to the chagrin of the girls. I had shrimp pasta, Arnie had his burger and the girls had hot dogs. On our way out we ran into the crew filming for the American Idol experience. I encouraged Maddie to be in the scene (screaming w/ a bunch of people in the car outside Sci Fi and then asking the contestant for her autograph). It was a nice thing for Maddie to have something special happen for her alone as the green jealousy monster was out in FULL force today.

We knew we wanted to do Epcot and get back in time for the Christmas party so it was time to bid DHS goodbye. On our way out we ran into the Director who asked Maddie if she was named Barbie (in a funny Italian accent). She had on the custom Wish shirt made for us by the Big Give folks so he made extra comments about that as well. We stopped off to get some candy (the girls got lollipops, Arnie got fudge and I got chocolate dipped marshmallows). We encountered a cute scene on the road to ToT with a woman driving a car and a "police man". We stopped to watch and laugh. I love when you come into spontaneous things like this.

And then we got some more Disney Magic. I stopped at the dining reservation booth near the tip booth to see what was available at Epcot for dinner. I had been TRYING and TRYING to get Le Cellier to no avail. I asked the woman "I know I'm asking for a miracle, but can you check again" She responded "(Sigh) I don't think there's anything. No there's not. Oh wait a minute! How's 6pm?" Woohoo!!!

We were feeling pretty excited at this so we quickly skipped to the car and made our way over to Epcot.

First stop at Epcot was to the VIP Lounge at Spaceship Earth. They were handing out antibacterial lotion in a pump (small sized that could attach to your key ring). We also were given bracelets that said "Never Give Up". We rode Spaceship Earth and then headed to Test Track. Olivia wanted NOTHING to do with it, so again, we checked out the VIP Lounge thinking that maybe if she saw the ride from inside, she may change her tune. No luck. So she had to wait while Arnie and M rode and then M and I did.

We stopped off at the butterfly garden and the kids ran around in the Tinkerbelle area.

We then decided it was character hunting time. We wanted to do ALL the characters in ALL the countries and we had limited time to do it LOL. We found Mulan; Snow White; Genie, Aladdin and Jasmine (picture Maddie doing a happy dance); Belle & the Beast; Alice (no Mary Poppins who was "on an adventure with Bert"); Sleeping Beauty (who had an EXCELLENT character handler with her who was very sensitive to making sure Maddie got special time with the princess as well. He also said "Is there ANYTHING I can do for you? Are you guys all set?" He was amazing (cry)); and Pooh, Eeyore and Tigger. Arnie and Maddie rode Soarin' while Olivia and I rode Living with the Land (again, I love that ride). Olivia enjoyed Journey into Your Imagination and remembered to hold her nose at the proper times LOL.

We hit the character greeting area in Innoventions where we got to see the Fab 5. I had a nice conversation with another family sporting a GAC (not MAW though). Of course, what is a day at Epcot without encouraging some poor stranger to try the Beverly at the ice cool station? I get my kids EVERY SINGLE TIME LOL. And we always remember when we had my father in law try it and his reaction was "mm, bitter".

Now it was time for Le Cellier. The CM didn't have us on his list. I told him I just made reservations a couple hours ago. He didn't believe me :rotfl:. I told him I didn't believe it either but to please check the computer. Sure enough we were in the computer!

Dinner - it's definitely worth the hype. I GET it. My husband who wasn't too sure about it but was humoring me? GETS IT! We are sold! The waiter was great and brought me over a child portion of the cheddar cheese soup to try. I would have eaten the entire thing but was worried my lactose intolerance would flare up. Once I mentioned that to him, he took it away immediately LOL.

With full bellies we made our way out of the park but not before getting some GREAT shots of the girls in front of Spaceship Earth using great photopass photographers. The girls were in rare form and the CM actually had tears in her eyes from laughing so much!

The Christmas Party - we got here late so we got pics with Mayor Clayton and then waited in line for Santa. Santa was great. Truly great. Brought me to tears because he was that good. Thank you Santa.

Next up: SeaWorld and IOA.

jenb1023

05-20-2009, 12:44 PM

Yea for a new update! DHS and Epcot - what a busy day! I am happy to hear how many characters you got to meet and that Maddie got some special attention. Scoring that Le Cellier ADR was some major pixie dust! We loved it too. Looking forward to photos (when you have time) and more updates!

tbelfonti

05-20-2009, 05:37 PM

Entire album:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2022379&id=1075877431&l=d06598c0cb

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142496037348_1075877431_30433389_411563_n.jp g

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142495717340_1075877431_30433382_51693_n.jpg

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142495837343_1075877431_30433385_835486_n.jp g

tbelfonti

05-20-2009, 05:57 PM

Entire album:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2022380&id=1075877431&l=a9f3bbe9c9

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142501597487_1075877431_30433402_5216640_n.j pg

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142501717490_1075877431_30433405_8084964_n.j pg

Check out the grin on Maddie's face!
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142501757491_1075877431_30433406_7030911_n.j pg

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142501877494_1075877431_30433409_907957_n.jp g

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142501997497_1075877431_30433412_7218666_n.j pg

tbelfonti

05-20-2009, 06:34 PM

So today was SeaWorld and Islands of Adventure.

We started the morning by locating Olivia's star in the Castle of Miracles. Yes, I cried LOL.

We then saw Curious George and the Man in the Yellow Hat at GKTW, had breakfast, rode the carousel and were on our way.

First stop was Sea World. We're not big fans so we planned to feed the dolphins and head out. They gave Maddie & Olivia each a tray of fish for feeding the dolphins. Olivia thought it was cool until she accidentally dropped the paper tray into the dolphin's mouth. That bothered her quite a bit and it took us a while to perk her back up after. She thought the trainers would be mad at her. Maddie & I were going to ride the Atlantis ride but the line was too long and we weren't sure how to use the button there. Arnie and Olivia burned through $3 in quarters spraying people on that ride LOL.

We then headed to the Shark experience and the Penguin exhibit. The girls weren't wowed by the park and Arnie and I aren't the biggest fans so we decided to head out to IOA early. Plus, we didn't want to eat at SeaWorld as we find it to be very pricey for "eh" food.

We arrived at IOA and had lunch at Margaritaville before heading into IOA. First stop was Suessland which was WAY cool. Olivia LOVED the carousel. We rode the Cat in the Hat ride which Olivia was unsure about (too "fast" and unpredictable for her). We did the above ground train which they both liked. We rode both sides and preferred the outdoor version b/c Olivia said it went slower ;). We LOVED One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish.

We walked through the Lost Continent but didn't ride anything. Arnie and Maddie rode the flyers at the Jurassic Park section while Olivia and I explored the caves. We then watched the water rides where Arnie, Maddie & Olivia got SOAKED in the splash zone LOL. I got some GREAT video of them there.

We walked through most of the rest of IOA as it was way above Olivia's tolerance level. We made the mistake of putting her on the Spiderman ride which was WAY too intense and she HATED it. Cried hysterically. I had to apologize and explain to her that I would have NEVER put her on it had I known it was that bad. I also told her I didn't enjoy it either.

We met up with Spiderman (our ONLY character experience at this park) and then went back to Suessland for another ride on the carousel and One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish.

We then headed out as it was HOT. Headed back and swam for a while before having dinner at Katie's Kitchen (boston market) and then going to make the girl's wish pillows and a visit to the Spa. The girls got their faces painted, nails done, and temporary tattoos. This was a HUGE highlight for them.

We then attended the Princess and Pirate party at GKTW - what a blast this was. They had makeup for the girls, purses, jewelry, crowns, etc. And they introduced EVERY single princess and pirate. At the end it was announced they all lived "happily ever after" (go ahead and cry - I did). We finished off the night with, what else? Ice cream!

Next up, our final day at MK

tbelfonti

05-20-2009, 06:41 PM

Highlights from the day:

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142513197777_1075877431_30433440_5462657_n.j pg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142513277779_1075877431_30433442_4714706_n.j pg

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142513357781_1075877431_30433444_468866_n.jp g

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142513637788_1075877431_30433450_6780816_n.j pg

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142513717790_1075877431_30433452_5981887_n.j pg

And they lived happily ever after...

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs029.snc1/4292_1142513917795_1075877431_30433457_7157992_n.j pg

maroo

05-20-2009, 07:34 PM

Oh, I just love the update!!!!

At the P & P Party, did they let the siblings do it too?? Or just the Wish Kids? I am glad you "reviewed" that party...because I don't think I have read many reviews on that! :thumbsup2

I am so sorry she dropped the dolphin food and was stressed! That stinks!

tbelfonti

05-20-2009, 07:54 PM

tbelfonti

05-21-2009, 01:00 PM

Boo! Last full day.

The girls and I had a breakfast date scheduled for Pooh & his friends and Arnie had scheduled a Segway Tour at Epcot. We arrived at the TTC just after 8AM and were parked in the SECOND ROW! That doesn't happen too often ;). We walked over to the TTC, kissed Daddy good bye and he took the monorail to Epcot while the princesses and I grabbed the MK monorail.

There is nothing BETTER than walking down an almost empty Main St. I got my picture of the girls holding hands walking up Main St (backs to me). I am realizing how quickly they're growing up and soon they won't be that small :(.

We were seated fairly quickly at CP and Eeyore came over pretty fast. This was my first time at a character buffet with them and no husband and it was STRESSFUL! My single mama friends - I don't know how you do it. We even toasted one of them because I was ALL stressed out! LOL.

They had our table decorated for our celebration and our waiter's name was Ariel (yes, I said WAITER, not waitress). He was a doll and we spent some time talking about GKTW. We got all the character's autographs and I tried to get some food into the children - best I could do! Olivia lost her button at one point during breakfast and a sweet little girl helped us find it under a table.

On our way out of the restaurant we ran into Bobbi - character handler from 1900 Park Fair! She asked if we had done Chef Mickey's yet and I told her it was that night. We hugged and she asked that we stop by next trip at CP to find her. :lovestruc The girls signed the "guest book" on our way out and we were on our way.

We timed it perfectly and watched the entire Castle Show (and I videotaped it as well). After we headed to Fantasyland. Olivia did NOT want to ride Snow White (which was fine two days ago so not sure what that was about ...). Arnie finally met up with us close to lunchtime and we had lunch at Pinocchio's (I'm not a fan and should have gotten the pizza...).

We tried to get Olivia on Splash but no luck so she played in the playground while we rode / kid swapped. We ran into Peter Pan who was AMAZING. He was probably the best Peter I've ever seen. We also saw Captn Hook was out but the girls didn't want to see him so we skipped it.

Now here comes my one bad experience (You've been warned).

We go to Pirate's. I show the GAC / button to the person at the entrance. Her response "Oh the line is only 20 minutes, you can go through the regular line" :eek: VERY condescending tone. Normally I wouldn't mind, but after we had been SPOILED at Universal, I was PISSED. I am MISS DISNEY. I live and breathe Disney. Heck, I SELL Disney trips as a PT job. This is NOT the treatment I was expecting and I was steamed. But rather than make a scene I let it go because I didn't want the kids to see me mad - it wasn't worth ruining the day. And I'm still going to write Disney a letter, because when you have a child saying "I wish to go to Disney" as their MAW trip - and Universal treats them better? Something is very wrong there.

We then headed to Magic Carpets where we saw Aladdin and Jasmine again. There was some rude person that interrupted our time with Jasmine which bugged me because I was already ticked regarding the Pirate's experience. Again, it wasn't worth it because it was all about the kids...

We needed to cool off so we headed to the Wish Lounge and stayed there close to an hour. Arnie napped. The girls and I read books, played games and watched some Hannah Montana. We caught the end of the parade again, then headed to Tomorrowland to ride Buzz a few more times. On our way out we caught an excellent photopass photographer who caught some great shots of the girls with the castle show fireworks going off in the background. He saved me from walking out feeling down about our cast member experience that day.

So it's time to walk out of MK for the last time. I had the sunglasses on so they couldn't see my tears but the family knew they were there LOL. Arnie asked "So what's that deal you were telling me about for the fall?" Woohoo - he's got the bug for another trip!!!!

We hop the monorail to Contemporary (got to ride the front as well!). Got in a VERY long line for Chef Mickey's. Some woman in front of me was complaining the ENTIRE time about why we need to make reservations and then wait in line, blah, blah, blah. I'm not sure if it was ME or everyone else who had problems that day ... LOL We took our Chef Mickey's photo and were seated quickly.

My family took off and as I was just about to go grab food, Goofy grabbed me LOL. He scared the CRAP out of me and I think I told him as much LOL. I called the family back to the table and we got some great shots with Goofy. All the characters were great but Minnie was especially loving on the girls because they had on "her colors" (wearing their DISBoutique outfits again ;)).

We were given cupcakes from the waiter to celebrate our "special occasion". We held hands, made a wish and blew out all the candles at the same time :lovestruc The woman next to us asked if we were there for our birthdays and when I explained what we were celebrating ... she got tears in her eyes. Disgustingly stuffed we decided it was time to head back.

But first we stopped at the shops at the Contemporary so I could get my ornaments. You see - I have ornaments from EVERY trip we've made as a family. Then every Christmas I open up each box and cry at the memories from each trip. We found two ornaments to signify our trip. The girls wanted "Disney Girls". Since we hadn't bought ANY souvenirs - they got to choose a doll and an outfit.

We headed back to GKTW for the final time. This was the night of Mayor Clayton's birthday party. They had rescue dogs there, music, dancing, hoola hooping, birthday cake, face painting, etc. It was great fun and the girls had a ball. Arnie and I realized we had not booked a tuck in from Mayor Clayton so he ran off to see about that. At the end Miss Olivia and I were dancing to "Take Me Home Country Road" which was SO appropriate since it was our last night (sob). Arnie got someone to pull some strings and they were able to get Miss Merry to come over and tuck the girls in! We rushed back to the room, got the girls in their jammies and waited for Miss Merry.

Now this was probably one of the highlights of our GKTW experience. Miss Merry came over in her buggy, wiped her feet as she came in the door, so stinking CUTE. She played dolls with the girls and then tucked them in. Just so sweet.

The girls fell asleep and we stayed up packing everything up.

Next up: the trip back and final thoughts...