Calling all July 20th Western Cruisers!!!

[PartiesNBalloons]

Hi,

I figured since we are just a near 6 weeks or so out that it was time to see how many of us would be cruising on the July 20th Western Cruise.

We're coming from Diamondhead, Mississippi and we have 4 in our party.
Myself, my DH, my DD (14yrs.) and my DS (12yrs.) This will be our 1st cruise ever and we are soooooo excited!!!

Waiting to hear from you,

[floridaminnie]

we are going to be there all the way from Tampa Florida. Me, dd, dm, df and dgrandmother. See ya there :)

[PartiesNBalloons]

Sdoane, how are is your daughter? I'm hoping there will be lots of kids in the 12 - 14yr category. My kids are very excited about the clubs and all the activities planned for them.

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Hi!

We'll be cruisin' with you guys! We're from Annapolis, MD and there are 4 people in our group (Me, DH, DS (13) & DD (9 1/2). We are getting really excited!

Are any of you letting your teens go on the "Fury Catamaran Teen Cruise"? My DH thinks it would be great for our DS, and my DS seems to agree. Any of you hear any feedback on this excursion? I got a couple of comments back when I started a thread on the subject, and some teens had been on a "Teen Cruise" on other cruises and were planning to go again on future cruises. I haven't heard any negative comments about it yet. Let me know what you think or have heard!

Thanks!

[LaurapKY]

:Pinkbounc

Hi, My sister and I are taking my 12 year old niece on this cruise! We are really looking forward to it. I've done the Western on another line and it is a wonderful trip. Let me know if you all would like to make introductions!

By the way, I went to law school and lived in Jackson, MS for 5 years...also met my DH there. We are living in Louisville, KY now...Go War Emblem!:Pinkbounc

:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[PartiesNBalloons]

I have already booked my daughter(14) on the Teen Fury cruise and the Wild Side at CC. She definitely wants to do the Wild Side but was iffy about the Teen Fury. I guess it depends if she has meet a few people that she's comfortable with, she'll go. Cancellation is 2 days prior to excursion. This is a cruise with DCL counselors so I'm sure it is very safe.

[PartiesNBalloons]

LaurapKY, I'm sure your niece and my son will meet if she is planning on doing activities in the Oceaneers Lab. This is where he is planning on spending most of his time.

[DOOGIERUNNER]

Party of 4. DD - 7 DS - 9 and wife. Doing Captain Marvins on Tuesday and Fury Catermeran on Wednesday. Can't wait.

[PartiesNBalloons]

Here's our tenative plans for the week.... We will be doing all excursions on our own.

Key West ~ explore the ship and join in on some activites until around 5pm. Head to shore for some shopping and sunset on Mallory Square.

Grand Cayman ~ 8:30am Stingray tour with Capt. Marvin and then time on Seven Mile Beach. We want to snorkel near the Wreck of the Gamma.

Cozumel ~ Here we are torn between Playa San Francisco Beach and Chankanaab Park. My DS wants to swim with the dolphins so we will likely end up at Chankanaab Park.

43 days and counting down!!!

[PartiesNBalloons]

Bumping up to see if there are any more July 20th Western Cruisers :O)

[PartiesNBalloons]

Bumping up to see if there are any more July 20th Western Cruisers :O)

[floridaminnie]

We recieved our docs today:D See ya'll in 39 days!

[PartiesNBalloons]

Lucky you Sdoane!! Now I'll be anxiously waiting for that truck to pull up to our house!!!

[skip]

we are going july 20th(me my wife and dd age 8 and ds age 5)this will be our 3rd disney cruise but first on the magic 7day(yeh)we are also going to try captain marvins and maybe the dolphin swim also.not sure what we'll do on key west.
we got our documents monday also.

[blb531]

:wave: Hi - We're cruising July 20th also. Myself, DH, DS (10) and DD (6) along with 2 other families of 4. We are all from Annapolis Maryland. Cruised last July together, and are looking forward to the new Western Itinerary. Hey Disneyluvr, do I know you from St. Martin's? See you all in July!

Barbara B.

[ski]

We are going! All the way from Lakeland, FL! (30 miles West of Disney) We received our docs yesterday. DW called me at work to tell me the FedEx man was there. We sailed last July and DD (2) had a great time so we are trying the Western this time.:)

[floridaminnie]

My DD will be 3 before we go on the cruise and is very excited about going on Mickey's boat. She can't wait to go do her own thing with the kids. See ya'll on the boat:sunny:

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Hi BLB531!

Yes! You do know me from St. Martins!!! Lookin' forward to cruisin' with you guys again!!!! Have you all gotten your documents yet? We haven't.

We haven't booked any excursions yet. How about you all? We better get on the ball or we'll be spending more time on the boat than we'd like!!!

Keep in touch!
:p

[blb531]

:earsgirl: Haven't received docs yet. Getting anxious. Also haven't booked any excursions yet, but I need to look into that real soon. Last year just did it on our own, but not sure about this time. Counting the days!
BLB

[PartiesNBalloons]

How many of you ladies are wearing long gowns on formal night?? I do not have one and I'm stressing over the cost of buying one. I'd rather save my money for the cruise :O) I do have a black cocktail dress that I could wear but fear I will be under-dressed. What do you think?

thanks,

[mmouse37]

A black cocktail dress will be fine....don't stress about being underdressed (a rhyme!!)

No, really, you will be fine in the black dress. Only about 20-30% wear long formal gowns.

MJ

[floridaminnie]

I would wear the cocktail dress. The only reason that I'm wearing a long formal is that I own one and I don't get to wear it that often. See ya on the ship :wave:

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

I'll be wearing cocktail dresses on formal nights. You really don't see too many ladies in evening gowns, so don't worry. You'll feel right at home in a cocktail dress! Plus, evening gowns take up more room in your suitcase! Another good reason not to go out and buy one!

[floridaminnie]

bump to see if there are any other July 20th cruisers out there. Where are you? :p

[DOOGIERUNNER]

We don't have our documents yet? I noticed some of you have already gotten yours.

Is anyone doing the Captian Marvin's 1/2 day snorkel? How about the Fury Catermeran on Cozumel?

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Hi!

We're thinking about doing the Fury Catamaran excursion in Cozumel. Haven't signed up for anything yet though. Our DS might turn around and go on the same boat that night for the teen cruise too. We haven't received our documents yet either. What is up with that? We went through AAA, so maybe we have to pick them up like we did last year.

[floridaminnie]

We booked with our TA and we received our docs about a week ago and we had to go pick them up from our TA. I don't know how Disney sends them out, but you can go ahead and make your excursions plans through disney. We already did our:p

[DOOGIERUNNER]

Anyone know if Lelio and Stich will be showing?

[floridaminnie]

It should be playing. They say to call a week before your cruise to verify the movies playing on the ship.

[floridaminnie]

Has anyone received a letter from DCL about changing the dinner times. I was just wondering, b/c I haven't. We booked through a TA and she seems to get all of our DCL mail though.

[PartiesNBalloons]

We have not received a letter of dinner changes either. We booked using our DVC points so I'm thinking the letter would come from them. We have not received our docs either and I'm anxiously awaiting them.

We have the late seating and the new time change puts a cramp in our plans for Key West. We were going to go to Mallory Square for the sunset and then go to dinner at 8:30. I'm not sure what we'll do now since we will most likely be eating at sunset :confused:

[floridaminnie]

I called DCL today to find out what time the seating were for our cruise, because I don't like waiting around to find out information. They told me that the main seating for this cruise is 5:30 and the late seating is at 7:45. PartiesNBallons what you might want to do for the night we are in Key West is to book your night at Palos for later, because I don't want to miss the sunset at Maloory square either! (We have the 5:30 seating though!) Hope that helps some:confused: !

[PartiesNBalloons]

I received a letter today from DCL about the dining time changes so everyone should be getting their's soon also.

As far as our dining plans for Key West, we may just eat at Topsiders or poolside that evening. It really depends on the rotation we get because we do not want to miss the 1st dinner in AP. We have 2 children and really want to dinner with them in the evenings so Palo's is out but it was a great suggestion.:)

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Sdoane,

Thank you so much for the "heads up" on the new dining schedule! We were scheduled for the early seating and have now switched to the later seating before everyone gets the same idea! We're never hungry at 5:30PM! Plus it cuts into our activities for the day ... we had a tough time making the 6:00PM dinners on our last two DCL cruises!! I am very unhappy about the changes in dining times. I think it would've worked better the other way around ... 5:45 PM and 7:30PM.

[SusanB]

DD (13) and I will be cruising July20 - can't wait! Haven't received our documents yets, but did get a letter yesterday advising that they've changed dining times. We've requested the early dining, which will now be 5:30! That means we'll miss dinner on our Cozumel day because we're going to do the Tulum tour and it won't be back until 6 pm - bummer! I think Disney should work with their vendor to move the excursion up earlier so their guests will be back in time, but oh well!

[PartiesNBalloons]

SusanB,

Hi! I'm happy to see your DD is 13. Is she planning on participating in the teen activities? My DD is 14 and she is hoping to make friends with a few kids her age to hang out with.

[Laura E.]

Yeah - Finally - I found others!!! Have been frantically searching and don't really know how I came to be here but I'm here. Anyway, our family of 5, DH, me, 16-yo-m, 15-yo-f (b-day on the 20th) and 9-yo-f are sailing on the 20th. Would love to have them be in communication with others before the trip. If this sounds like a great idea, please contact me. Not sure how this works or even if I can get back here - well at least to this same spot. If someone out there can help me, please contact me.

Also, we have sailed Disney as family (& w/o) before on the 3, 4 & 1st 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise. For you 1st timers- your in for the ride of your life!

If I can be of any help, feel free to write me.

Can't wait - hope to hear from some of you. :wave:

Laura E.

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Hi Laura E.!

I have a 9 yr. old DD who would love to contact your 9 yr. old DD! Our family of four will be cruising along with you all on July 20th. This is our 3rd cruise on the Magic so she already knows her way around the boat pretty well. What she most enjoys about DCL is the game room, going to get ice cream with her friends, the deck party, biking on Castaway Cay and making flubber!

Hope to hear from you guys! We're from Maryland!

:Pinkbounc :wave: :bounce: :earseek: :sunny:

(She picked out all of the smileys above)

[Laura E.]

Hey Disney Luvr - I'm so glad you responded. I have updated my profile so if you want to send me an e-mail I can have my daughter open it up. That would jazz her up! She also has a pretty good memory of the ship so looks like hopefully the girls will hit it off. She is already talking about how she going on the slide 1st thing. Pack the suits or wear them! BTW, she doesn't have her own e-mail address so if you want to get some more personal info (one can never be too cautious with our babies) just write me and I'll give you more details and hopefully exchange pix.

Another BTW, these boards have totally changed since our last cruise in '00. Nothing is the same and I feel lost. But having a friendly hi helps.

Thanks for responding so soon.

Want to laugh? We're only 15 minutes away from Disneyland in Anaheim, CA. But seems that all 3 kids prefer WDW. Less crowded. But somehow, I think that the boat has something to do with it. OH! We'll get TO FL on the 17th & leaving on the 7th of Aug. Can't wait.

[tinkerbell86]

Hey Im 16 yo-f. I went on the Eastern Carribbean cruise last year and had a blast meeting new people. Just lettin you know that i will be on the cruise! I cant wait!

[PartiesNBalloons]

Welcome Laura! We're so happy you will be joining us! My DD is 14 and would like to have communication with other teens before sailing so let me know how you want to do that. Maybe we could get a loop going for all the DIS teens that are sailing with us.

I'm sure I'll have lots of questions for you as the trip gets closer.

27 days and counting down!!

[floridaminnie]

My dd (3) kept thinking that we were going on Mickey's ship today, so we made a count down chain. Now we take a chain off each morning. We are getting closer!:smooth: Can't wait!

[PartiesNBalloons]

A countdown chain is a GREAT idea!! I think I'll make one for myself! I'm so excited I keep going to the calendar and counting the days. ;)

[PartiesNBalloons]

Hi all, I just can't seem to stay off these boards. Disney vacation planning is soooo addicting!!

Anyway, I'm just cusious what deck everyone is staying on. We're on deck 2, Cat. 9. We really wanted a veranda but they were already booked when we called. I've called like 30 times to see if one has come available but nothing yet :( I guess it's ok though because now we have enough DVC points left for next year to get a 2 bdrm. in Hilton Head for a week :) See how addicting Disney is!! This vacation is not even here yet and I'm already planning next year's!!

[floridaminnie]

I'm just as addicted if not more than you PartiesNBalloons. I am always on these boards looking for more info and giving advice where I can. We are also staying on Deck 2, but a catg. 12. Our rooms are 2021 and 2019. We are also very addicted to Disney. We have AP plus the water park AP. They are very useful, b/c we only live an hour away from Disney. It's nice to come home and say let's go to Disney tonight. We are already planning a weekend for Halloween. We are going to Mickey's Halloween Party which is so much fun. We started alternating each year between that and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. See you on the ship!

[PartiesNBalloons]

Sdoane, you are sooo lucky to live so close. I really wish we lived closer. We live in Mississippi and it takes 9 hours to get to Disney. It is really not a bad drive but is too far to go for the weekend. We did that one time and will never do it again. By the time we were settled in, it was time to go home again. BUT, when we do finally get there for a vacation, we usually spend about 10 days or so.

[PartiesNBalloons]

Hi all,

Does anyone know of any 11-12yr. old boys going on the July 20th cruise? My DD has several teens that she is communicating with but so far, my DS has no one and he's getting a bit concerned. I'm sure he'll do fine but would feel better if he has a 'buddy' when he gets on the ship.

22 days and counting down!!

Melissa

[floridaminnie]

Is there anybody out there with young kids (3-4 yr old range)? There seems to be a lot of teenagers onboard.

[DOOGIERUNNER]

OK PartiesandBalloons, don't complain about being 9 hours away, we're 24 hours away... there are no weekend trips. We have to fly and try to stay as long as we can!!! We are also DVC members and can't get enough. My wife is a teacher, we've got plenty of points... I wish I could buy more vacation time!! :) See you at the DVC reception on Sunday?

Anyone got kids in the 6-7 year age group? We've got a DS - 9 who loves to spend all his time in the lab... unfortunately not as much as he would like; it IS a family vacation... and a DD -7 who claims she was bored in the club. We're going to try to see if she can be in the lab, but my understanding is our cruise is full?

[PartiesNBalloons]

Yes, DoggieRunner, we will be at the DVC reception on Sunday. Do you have any idea when it will be?

I'm so sorry you live so far away. I feel for you having to fly everytime. At least we can get in our car and drive.

We love our DVC. People thought we were crazy when we bought into it but we feel it is the BEST investment we have ever made for our family!! It guarantees us a good vacation every year and if we are careful with our points we can sometimes squeeze 2 vacations in. Our home resort is Hilton Head. We were going to buy in 'Disney' but decided that once our kids are grown, Hilton Head is were we want to vacation. Not saying that we won't still treat our kids to a Disney trip every now and then :)

21 days and counting down!!

[PartiesNBalloons]

I noticed you live in Tampa. We're going to Busch Gardens before the cruise and I was wondering if you had any recommendations for a hotel near the park? We're looking for a clean, inexpensive place with a pool.

Thanks,

[floridaminnie]

La Quinta Inn 3701 E Fowler Ave
Tampa, FL ZipCode
Phone: (813)910-7500
2.76 mi.



Wingate Inn 3751 E Fowler Ave
Tampa, FL ZipCode
Phone: (813)979-2828
2.79 mi.

These are two hotels that I found off the website TBO.com (a local website for the area) that I would feel comfortable staying at. THey are close to bush, but in a safer area of town. I would NOT recommend staying at any of the hotels right next bush, because it is not in the best part of town. I would recommend staying on Fletcher or Fowler east of Bruce B Downs. Anything west of Bruce B Downs and you might be giving your kids some lessons that you don't want to be giving them. I'm heading that way this week, so I'll stop by one of the tourist areas to see if there are any good discount coupons that you can use and what hotels I would stay at. I couldn't find a couple that I know are there.

[PartiesNBalloons]

Thank you for the advice about the hotels. I would have booked right by Bush if you had not told me better. I'll be waiting to hear from you about other places or coupons. Thanks again for your help!! :)

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Hey July 20th cruisers!

Please read the thread called "To DIS or not to DIS?!" and let's see how many DISrs want to meet! Sounds like a great idea to wear a certain colored "lei" and meet at the 5:00PM "sail away" party on the top deck. How many of us are there anyways? It'd be great to have a big turn out!

Although, it may be a little difficult to meet at that time with the earlier dining time (5:30PM). If most people have that schedule, maybe we can set up another meeting place or time.

Who's game?

:Pinkbounc :p :bounce: :wave: :Pinkbounc

[PartiesNBalloons]

DisneyCruiseLuvr, I'm game to meet. Right now we have about 13 Dis families that I know of. I think the sail away party is a good idea but we would have to be specific about WHERE to meet. I think past cruisers could help us with this. I"m sure it is very crowded and crazy, but I'd like to try to meet on deck 9 where all the action will be :)

20 days and counting down!!

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Deck 9 is a great idea! How about if we meet near the Mickey pool area on the side that faces the DCL building. What's a good time for everyone? Will the 5:00PM Sail Away Party work? Works for us, we have late dinner seating.

[floridaminnie]

We have the 5:30 early seating. I would still be willing to meet at 5, but I will have to run.:jester:

[PartiesNBalloons]

I'm looking at the navigator from the inaugural cruise and it has the sail away party at 4:30pm. It that is so, then we could meet at that time and give those with early seating a chance to meet also without being so rushed. What do you think DisneyCruiseLuvr?

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

PartiesNBalloons,

We can definitely be there at 4:30PM, as long as they don't drag out the fire drill. Another great idea ... thanks!

What are we going to use so we can spot eachother out easily? To be honest with you, I'm going to feel like a real DORK walking around with a lei around my neck. But, if that's the best we can come up with, then I can be a DORK for an hour or so?!

If we can fine-tune our meeting place, maybe we won't have to wear anything to identify ourselves with. Anyone have any suggestions?

[PartiesNBalloons]

I'm kinda the same about the lei's. I think I would feel alittle weird also. I do think we need to come up with something though. I'll think on it a bit and let you know if I come up with anything.

Ok, fellow cruisers, we have 3 committed to coming to a brief DIS meet.... who else wants to join us???

[floridaminnie]

Reading other thread, including the parks, disers sometimes wear the green loop, for lack of a better word, on their shirt. It is something that you can see, but not so out of place. Just a thought. Let me know. Only 18 more days!

[Laura E.]

:confused: :confused: :confused:
I'm so confused!!!!! Okay I'm game but I'm supposed to be meeting either the teenagers or the kiddos at 4:30. Either at Mickey's Pool or outside shutters, unless that's changed. But whatever you decide, just inform me and for which age group. I'm running around like a chicken with my head cut off. I just found out I'm supposed to be hosting the 4th of July party again. And I haven't even shopped! Oh NO.

Who said this was supposed to be fun? My fun will start on the 17th!!!! Okay, enough whining. Back to the subject, I'm game, How about the bubbles suggestions? (Not sure if I'm crediting the right person - Barb?) Does this sound familiar to anyone? Anyway, we can also try e-mailing family pictures if anyone is game. I too am not to keen on lei's either.

Keep up the good links all - very well appreciated!

P.S. - What's the green loop? :confused: :earsgirl: :wave:

[amcanzo]

:earsgirl: Hi everyone! This will be our first cruise....(actually our first REAL vacation...) Me, my dh, and our 2 girls, 9 & 11. Needless to say we are VERY excited and would love to meet some other people. So I think that we would be game...if I can find my way around. :rolleyes:

Ann :wave:

[floridaminnie]

It's a green ribbon (I was having a brain block sorry).

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

I think each side of the Mickey pool has a towel bin. How about if we meet in that area (facing the DCL building)? (9th deck)

I had an idea, for those of us who have lanyards, so we can spot eachother out quickly. What if we place a piece of paper (instead of the KTTW card ~ or in front of your KTTW card) that has "DIS" (in large, bold print) printed on it? Maybe our DIS ids in smaller print underneath. Just a thought.

We are getting so excited!!! Is 4:30PM going to work out for everyone?

:D

[floridaminnie]

That sounds great DisneyCruiseluvr. I'll have on my green AP lanyard on then and 4:30 will be perfect for us!

[PartiesNBalloons]

Hi Laura, I think you can credit your confusion on the meeting place to me. Sorry about that. I've sent you an email to clarify everything.

DisneyCruiseLuvr, 4:30 on Deck 9 by the Mickey Pool sound great. We'll be there.

Lanyards with our DIS names are a great idea. I'll see if I can find a lime green one :)

As far as the bubbles, I can handle that. I'll bring some of those little bottles of party bubbles for everyone.

Anyone staying at the Radisson on Friday night?

I can't believe it is almost here! I'm soooo ExCiTeD!!!

17 days and counting down!

[PartiesNBalloons]

Glad to see you will be joining us! If you have any questions, ask away. We have a few veteran cruisers on board with us.

17 days and counting down!

[snelsonbrown]

Hello there western cruisers,
Just wanted to let you know that if you have any questions that I can help with concerning Key West - just let me know - My husband and I just came back with a lot of information, pamplets, coupons, etc for watersports, eating, etc.
Hope you are getting the excitement up for a wonderful vacation.
Always
Shirley

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Hi Ann!

Welcome to our DIS group! I have a DD9 too! She is already making friends via email with Laura E's DD9. If your DD would like to correspond with them and make some friends before the cruise, please feel free to email us.

The excitement is buILDING!!!!!

See you all soon!!!
:Pinkbounc :p :Pinkbounc :smooth:

[amcanzo]

Thanks for the welcome! I will have Alyssa email your dd after we get back from the Holiday weekend - we're heading north for a long weekend to our cottage. :Pinkbounc

Ann

[floridaminnie]

I printed the menus from Dave's website and I've been drooling ever since. They are going to have to roll me off the boat!:p

[PartiesNBalloons]

Yea! I"m soooo ExCiTed and I just can't hide it :bounce: Mr. FedEx came to visit us today!! Having the cruise docs in my hands makes it REAL. Guess I can officially start packing now!?!

I was reading over some off the material and it states very boldly that personal coolers are not allowed on board. We have a collasible soft wheeling cooler that we were going to take for the days at the beach. Are these coolers also not allowed on board? I don't want to be departing the ship and have a CM stop me.

Also, how neccesary are water shoes?? Do you need them to get in the water at CC?


15 days and counting down!!

[Laura E.]

:Pinkbounc :bounce: :D :bounce: :Pinkbounc
Hey there Melissa - Just thought I'd put in my two sense. Per me, (and my DH) you can get away without any at the family beach but you'd definately need them for the adult side of the beach. That side gets pretty rocky the further out you go and even from the beginning. Also, sometimes you can even step on small fish and shells that hurt your feet. I recommend getting them only because when you goto rinse off, it gets pretty nasty and no telling what you can pick up. Also, the bathrooms by the end of the day get really sandy. Personally, I would feel more comfortable wearing something on them. That plus the fact that I had to shell out $10+ for each pair on CC at their little store. DH says that you'd probably need them for the water parks at WDW. They'll also rob you there. If not, Payless Shoe Source has a sale going on for thongs/flip flops for only $3.00. At that price, it won't hurt the budget if one gets lost. I would definately recommend getting something very light if possible. They can weigh you down in the water but well worth it if you accidentally step on something like I did. Thank God I had my DH walk back to shore to pick up my water shoes or else I would be been limping back to the boat.

BTW, you might want to take something just in case you or yours gets stung by small jellyfish. I happened to when my daughter and I went snorkeling. I didn't realize what they were until I'd passed thru them. They were small, clear and looked like clear plastic grocery bags. Hey, - the water in CA isn't clear and I didn't know what they looked like in their natural habitat! LOL! Since then, I gone to the Long Beach Aquarium and looked at them in their natural habitat. NOW, I know what they look like. It really wasn't very, very painful but I did have to go to first aid and have them put calamine lotion on. It's that or you have to urinate on the area. This calms down the poisen too. Unfortunately, I was stung on my out side hip.

Well, that's it for now, gotta get ready for my DS 16th b-day party tomorrow. Have fun everyone. GETTING REALLY EXCITED!!!!!!

See you all soon - Why? Because we're going on a Disney Cruise!!!!!!!!!

Laura

Sorry folks - big Disney fan. Sometimes can't help myself. :p

[PartiesNBalloons]

I think I've decided to get the shoes just in case we need them. I'll just put them in the snorkel bags. I'm just trying to figure out HOW to pack all this stuff!!

We know all about the jelly fish since we live on the coast. Another good remedy for a sting is meat tenderizer. We always have a bottle on hand when we go to the beach.

14 days and counting down!!

[Laura E.]

Okay folks, just thought I'd put the word out - just got off the phone with Disney, CC Wild Side (which is what I referred to as the scavenger hunt in some of my posts) is SOLD OUT!

And. . . . I goofed major big time. I waited on one of my kids to decide if she was going and didn't make the reservations and I was left behind. Wild side is sold out all ready! 14 days to the cruise and its gone out. I believe that the excursion holds about 35 teens max so that means that there will be major teens aboard! Good news to those out there that haven't been lucky enough to make contact yet. Bad news for me to break to my teens. However, the perpetual good news Disney puts out suggests that I contact them periodically until sailing day and even once onboard the ship to see if there are any cancellations. Guess I'll be praying for a small miracle to happen. But the bright side is that they (my two) are definately booked on the Teen Fury in Cozumel. So those of you out there like me who haven't made their reservations yet, get going! Good Luck to all!

Laura E.

This really sucks! I haven't received my docs yet. I had to find out from a fax what cabin my kids are in. Come Monday morn I will be frantically calling my TA for those docs. What would have happened if I had been a 1st timer? Oh well, thems the break.:( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :(

[PartiesNBalloons]

Hey Laura, I"m so sorry you were not able to book the Teen wild side. I guess we were one of the lucky ones and got my DD booked. I would check each day once on board because there is up to a 2 day cancellation so something may come available. She is booked on the Teen Fury also so I"m sure they'll see each other there.

We received our docs yesterday and I was sooo excited. It makes it real holding them in my hands!

Is anyone going to Playa Del Sol? we're trying to decide on this. I contacted them and they are pushing me to book thru Disney vs. on our own. Booking on our own would save about $50 but they said they have a 'special area reserved' for people booking thru disney. Has anyone done this excursion before and can you give me the pros and cons on it??

Who's started packing yet!?!?

[floridaminnie]

I was wondering if any of you fellow cruisers were going to Hell excursion in Cozumel? We aren't, too much for my little dd, but I was wondering if you were if you would mind mailing some postcards for me at the post office there?
Thanks:D

[snelsonbrown]

Hey there excited cruisers,
Just wanted you to know that I did receive coupons from Key Cat water sports yesterday that will entitle anyone that intends to do snorkeling, scubbing diving, jet skis, yakaking etc, a super nice discount --you do not have to purchase anything from my shop and there is no rebate for me from the different companys I spoke to while I was in KW --If you would like some of the coupons etc I received, just let me know at snelsonbrown@aol.com ok.
Also for all of those that will be here at Port canaveral and run into any problems that we can help, either call the shop at 800-950-4559 or my cell 321-508-2246. You never know when you made need a safe port away from home.
Glad to see so much excitement -have a wonderful and safe trip here and back home.
Always
Shirley

[LaurapKY]

Hi the CM taking advance reservations told me it is likely they are holding some spots for excursion until the ship sails. That means you should check the excursion desk when boarding. From what I understood, pre-booking only has some slots...not all of the slots.

[PartiesNBalloons]

Your kindness is definitely "Disney Style"!! :)

[Laura E.]

Hello Shirley

Just one of the excited cruisers here - I have one question for you? Are you for real? It seems so unusual that someone will go out of their way to help perfect strangers. But since you put the offer out there - hope you don't mind if I take you up on it if the need arises. Thanks so much for thinking about others, its refreshing to realize there really are nice people still out there.

Thanks - Laura E.:p

[floridaminnie]

PartiesNBalloons, I sent you a PM

[windyguy]

We are from the Windy city of Chicago thus the name Windyguy.
This is our first time and everyone in the family had to come sons 23 & 17 daughter 18. My oldest feels a little strange being with so many younger kids on the cruise but should fill that void playing basketball with me and the younger son maybe we spot a three on three with other cruisers. Also bringing my sister along to help keep me and the wife tipsy... See you all very soon now.
:smooth:

[floridaminnie]

windyguy, just a little FYI we were reading the navigator's from barb's website and they have a special group meeting for the 18-25 year old group to meet. I guess that is to help those in the in-between group meet each other.

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Hey fellow cruisers!

So far, these are the families that will meet on our sailing day at 4:30PM on the 9th deck by the towel bins at the Mickey pool (facing the DCL building):

PartiesNBalloons
SDoane
Laura E
BLB531 (told me she'd do her best!)
DisneyCruiseLuvr (me)
LaurapKY
Amcanzo

I hope I didn't miss anyone, I'm doing this by memory. Anyone else out there coming by to meet with us?

I'm getting really anxious to start filling up our suitcases!!!! How about you guys???

:Pinkbounc ;) :Pinkbounc :p :Pinkbounc

[floridaminnie]

I have to make another trip to the dollar store today to finish up the endless list of have to haves for the trip.

[PartiesNBalloons]

Hi fellow cruisers!!

Just curious where everyone is staying the night before the cruise. We're staying at the Radisson. Anyone else joining us??

I'm ready to pull out the suitcases too, DisneyCruiseLuvr!! I cannot believe it is sooo close now. I started this thread when we were 6 weeks out and now only have 11 days to go!!

BTW, I bought a box of 24 party bubbles yestersday. I"ll bring these for our Sailaway Dis party!!

See ya soon!

[amcanzo]

We're flying in that day to Orlando....but we would like to plan on meeting everyone too... So count us in!

:p

Ann

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Hey Ann!

We'll be looking forward to meeting you! I've already printed out my "DIS" labels for our DCL lanyards so you all will be able to spot us out right away. We are a family of four (Me, DH, DS13 & DD9).

We'll be in Disneyworld before the cruise. That's why I'm sooooooo ready to pack our bags!!! We leave on July 17th. We've had this vacation planned for about a year. I can't believe it's almost time to go!!

:wave:

[DOOGIERUNNER]

Count DoogieRunner and family in (DD - 7 DS - 9). Last cruise we met the DISers while mulling around in the terminal!!! Not sure if we'll be at the 4:30 meeting. Anyone besides PartiesandBallon a DVC member?

We're getting in on the 18th, and spending Friday at Seaworld, Crusing, followed by a week @ VB then a week @ BWV. Can't wait :)!!!

[PartiesNBalloons]

What a vacation!! Don't tell me you have enough points to do the entire vacation.... I"ll be sooo jealous!! :p Let me know how VB is. We've never been and I'm curious of how it is. We own at Hilton Head and love it! That's where we are going next summer. It is such a laid back vacation. No parks, no alarms.... it's great.

Are you still going to the DVC reception? Is it on Sunday morning?

See you in 11 days!! :Pinkbounc

[floridaminnie]

Just a quick ? for those that are DVC members. When I calculated the cost of membership along with the annual maint. cost. I came up with six dollars per point which is a great savings over the cost of a reg. hotel at WDW onsite. I was just wondering how you like it and do you find it worth the cost. Any drawbacks of being a member? I ordered info. from them, but plan on talking to rep while on cruise. Thanks! Only ten more days!:jester:

[PartiesNBalloons]

I'm not sure about how you caculated your points but $6 a points sounds really low. If you visit the DVC board, I'm sure someone can help you with it.

As far as being happy with DVC... we love it and feel it is the best investment we have ever made for our family!! It pretty much guarantees us a great vacation every year until we are like 80 years old!!! The part we like the most is having so much space. We usually get the 2 brdm for our family of 4 and it is so much more relaxing than being crammed in a little one room hotel.

I'm sure once you are on board you can talk with a rep. I think you can even come to the DVC reception if you are thinking of buying.

10 days and counting down!! :Pinkbounc

[windyguy]

This is sounding better by the minute and boy this family certainly cannot wait for our trip. We have been DVC since 93 and yes we love it only drawback is that it expires 2042 and then is purchasing again but surely we should get a chance of some sort of cost saving and that's something my kids need to worry about I should be long gone.hahaha. We also have timeshare with Marriott and also love that but feel DVC is the best for what we have in being part of the Mania of Disney. We come into Orlando on Thurdays staying at the Boardwalk for two nights before coming to port and expect to party all day long thruout the World park hopping is for us. Reservations for Contemporry california Grill on arrival just to watch the fireworks that night from there, we don't like the food so much there but the sight is awesome. We may not also make the 4:30pm meeting but hopefully should catch up with most of the DIS member during the cruise.
One question more please the boys don't want to dress in Tux for formal night and wish to wear just a plain suit Black thusly I would wear a Sport jacket with nice slack and shirt would this be out of place much for you experience cruiser to answer?.
Thanks for the information on 18-25 gathering makes the big boy happy to know that this is taking place and he has a chance to be within his age group. Wife is ready to pack now and have had to restrain her since we still have more then a few to go but thats what being crazy about Disney is,,, see you all soon!!!!!
:bounce: for joy......

[PartiesNBalloons]

Reading all the posts about formal night, I really think you and your sons will be ok in a suit. My DH is wearing a black suit and tie for formal night, also.

See ya in 10 days!

[DOOGIERUNNER]

In regards to the $6/point value... your point value is much higher if you use them at DVC home resorts, more like $29 - $35/pp. On the cruise I think ours were around $9. Just take the price you would have had to pay for a passenger and divide it by the number of points required for that passenger. Same with a room at a DVC resort.

PartiesNBalloons.. no we're not taking the whole 3 weeks on points, we paid cash for our two kids for the cruise. :).

windycity... you will be fine in a suit. We went on the eastern last year and I'd say much less than half of the folks were in in evening gowns and tuxes. After early seating, many changed into their casual clothes for the rest of evening's activities.

We're packing a fewer clothes this year. Word of advice, you won't need as many clothes as you think. Most sun folks hang in tees and swimwear all day. I'm taking my evening clothes for dinner, everything else will be swimsuits, running shorts, tee shirts and tank tops. I'll be running on deck 4 early in the mornings, by the pool after breakfast until early afternoon then napping and reading a book on the lounge chairs on deck 4 again before dinner. Last year our kids stayed up until around midnight every night so they needed that afternoon nap (as did I). They spent their fair share of time in the club but not as much as they would have liked... it is a family vacation!!

[Laura E.]

:) :) :wave: :earsgirl:
Dear Doogierunner - might I ask what time you will be running? Reason? I have a 16-yo who must train for cross country during vacation or he won't be allowed to participate in a cross country week long training camp upon our return to CA. He's concerned that others won't be running or that their isn't room to run. Any way you can allay his fears? Might help his nervousness seeing as 'mom' never knows anything! :rolleyes: But hearing it from others might make it real. If you can just e-mail me I'll give you his address. Thanks for your help.

Laura E.

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Hi Laura E.!

Please tell your son that there is plenty of space to run on the 4th deck. I use to get up early in the morning and run a few laps before breakfast sometimes. I think if you run 4 whole laps it's equal to 2 miles, something like that anyways. I heard that info. is posted on a wall somewhere on Deck 4.

The "track" is outdoors for most of the run, but when you go around the front and back of the boat, it goes indoors. I'm sure he'll be passing me up sometime!

;)

[DOOGIERUNNER]

Laura E.,

Regarding running.... I run marathons so I run year round. I'm one of those who doesn't need an alarm clock so I'm usually up by 6... which would be 7 eastern. I think last year I was out between 7-7:30 most mornings for an hour. There were always plenty of folks running around deck 4 then. In the late morning it's walkers. They say its just over 1/4 mile around, but based on the time it takes me to run a mile, I say it's closer to 3 laps per mile. They also have treadmills in the spa but I'm not a treadmill fan. If you son wants to meet me Sunday morning let me know by replying to this post. I'm not fast, 6:30s to 7's are a relaxed pace... getting old.


Someone earlier mentioned things to pack... a highlighter for the daily navigator. There's so much to do. We liked highlighting those things that sounded fun... whether we did them or not was a different story, it's vacation; we don't like being tied to a schedule :) .

[Laura E.]

Hello everyone - I'm back. I kinda lost my head (not to mention my thread to this place.) But now I'm back (hopefully to stay at least until Wednesday.)

A couple of points:

1) I finally found a green lanyard that I will hopefully be wearing unless I forget to pack it.
2) Can someone again tell me what the final plans and meeting time will be? (I've gone nutso and have lost everything - plus its late - lol)
3) Not that anyone cares but my family will be staying at the Radisson Friday night and I believe another family is too. Melissa - is that your family? Or is it Lisa? Oh well, just e-mail me if you can. I'd love to set up a time for our girls to meet.

Well as I mentioned earlier - G2G - I have church early in the a.m.

Someone write me and let me know I'm not crazy??? PLEASE?????lol:p :confused: :p :crazy: :wave:

[Laura E.]

Hey there Doogierunner - just thought that I'd tell you that I think you intimidated my DS. He says that he'll try and get up early and run with you if he sees you but I think your timing scared him.

Anway, if you see a red-haired skinny and kinda tall kid, about 5'8" or so and wearing a retainer, that's my son. Just call him Red - his teammates do. And it not just because he's a redhead but because he loves to wear red. I've tried telling him that redheads don't wear red but that saying just shows how inaccurate it is. He actually looks good in it. But again, that's a mom's opinion.

Anyway, if anyone else reads this, let's blow his mind and greet him with "Hey Red, how's the running?" That way, he'll have to commit to running.

Gosh, is this mean or what? His sister says its too mean.

Anyway, G2G - its late. :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[amcanzo]

LauraE - As far as I can tell, these are the final plans:

Hey fellow cruisers!

So far, these are the families that will meet on our sailing day at 4:30PM on the 9th deck by the towel bins at the Mickey pool (facing the DCL building):

PartiesNBalloons
SDoane
Laura E
BLB531 (told me she'd do her best!)
DisneyCruiseLuvr (me)
LaurapKY
Amcanzo


Hope that Helps!
Ann

[floridaminnie]

Yes, we are still planning at meeting whoever is there at 4:30. It'll be nice to relax with a drink in my hand after doing the ressies rush and getting the little one checked in at the club. I'm finishing up when to go to Palo's and the spa. Only six more days!:jester:

[cjp/dvc]

To all the cruisers on the 20th!
Count us in...
I've been following your posts for a while and decided it's time to let you know we are here too! DH and I will be onboard (third Magic Cruise...we are addicted)...and also use our DVC points every chance we can!
We will be the couple traveling without children...This one is a 30th Wedding Anniversary trip...
our 25 year old son was with us on Eastern cruise last April... (Chicago...your son will have a blast as most of the ship's crew is about that age and they will befriend him in a heartbeat...ours returned to Magic on his own cruise 7 mos. later just to visit with crew friends again! and now will visit with several of them who work at WDW since leaving the ship's employ.
We will arrive in WDW on Wed. and stay at Boardwalk (someone else is there, I believe) till Sat.
All previous posts are accurate...suits (they dont even have to be dark) are very acceptable attire for the formal/informal nights...
I know it's late...but can we be of help to anyone else with last minute questions?
See you onboard!

[DOOGIERUNNER]

CJP.. 30 years, cool: WOW!!! Good to hear you're also a DVC member, so is PartiesnBalloons. We love it. We joined 3 years ago. Anyone else a member? Will you be at the reception?

Laura E. sorry I've intimidated your son!! :) I guess if I'm running @ 7:30 that's really 4:30 CA time. Hope he's not too fast? I'm pushing 40 and slowing down. I'm sure I'll see him sometime during the week and I'll make sure I call him 'Red'. He can call me Doogie (notorious nickname :( ).

Brought up the suitcases this evening and started throwing in 'stuff': two ways, batteries, film, firstaid kit, bonnine, bug spray, cameras....

Anyone have any SPA recommendations? I'd like to surprise my wife with a massage...

[cjp/dvc]

Good Morning...it's Monday...but just think of what's waiting for us at the end of THIS week! ok, now I know why I didn't post earlier...this stuff can get addictive...it's 6 am and I'm checking for replies!
Windyguy...I sent an e mail to your questions

Doogie runner...as you can tell by our signature we DO love DVC! Joined in 93 at OKW, then HHI before it was finished being built and use those pts. now mostly for extras like concierge collection and cruises. We will be at DVC reception if possible (anyone ck out the date or times in a posted navigator?) We have not made one yet on other two cruises because of conflicts...perhaps we should try harder this time to be sure to meet the other DVC'ers on board

Regarding spa recommendations....you have to do it! Your wife will love it...if she is a spa newbie try a great sampler called the Absolute Face & Body Treatment ($144-105 minutes) It combines 5 different massage techniques on back & body, aromatherapy & facial & scalp massage...a total do! or do the Spa Taster ($89-50 minutes) a 25 minute back of the legs, back, neck & shoulder massage with a 25 minute facial booster treatment...and then of course there is the ever famous (ala Barb's Platinum Club boards) Surial Ritual Chamber at $68 per couple...60 minutes)...it sounds wonderful...a grownup mud party!
You can download two pages of spa info on Disney Cruise Index if you need the complete list...from about $60 to $144...

Parties & Balloons...thanks for starting and keeping up the thread...you are our leader...and I can't wait to see how much you enjoy the ship!

ps...we are already packed...leaving in 48 hours!

[cjp/dvc]

:bounce:
Just a heads up if this is your first cruise...learn from our past mistakes...
Pack a reasonable first day bag...your luggage can sometimes be delayed in the ships hold until well after port departure, which can be as late as 6pm (especially if you are an early arrival at the terminal-first luggage on=last to be delivered to rooms) if you have early dinner (it is casual) but planned to change clothes be sure you have them with you in your day bag.

Wine tasting requires registering at guest services (Deck 3 midship/port side...opposite where you first enter the ship...some miss it because it is not an excursion or on site ressie.

If you did not pre-register for excursions, don't wait for excursion talk...drop-box and request forms are to your immediate right as you board (deck 3 starboard)...sometimes they don't put them out till about 2:30pm or so...but hurry for first crack at some openings.

Bring some bottled water...a package of 6 bottles was $13.50 on last cruise...a bit pricey...I watched one family of thirsty children gladly take bottles of water from a cruise member selling them at the entry to the ship one day as they were returning from an excursion... they were open before the tired parents got there!

Bring a camera to dinner each night. There are always characters posing in the lobby in front of Lumieres (deck 3 where you enter)...the professionals will take your photos & put them up in Shutters (photo shop) but they are also pricey... $8 & higher... pose & take your own shots...it is allowable...save the $$ to perhaps just buy those really special photos.

Hope these hints are helpful.
Chris

[amcanzo]

Chris & Joe,

Thank you for all the helpful hints! I've learned SO much coming to this board....can't wait for Saturday!! :Pinkbounc

Ann

[PartiesNBalloons]

We're happy you will be joining us! Our family is soooo excited we can hardly stand it!! As of this hour, we are leaving in 64 hours! :Pinkbounc I have our suitcases out and I'm doing the laundry now. As it comes out the dryer, we'll be packing away.... I just seems like a dream. I have wanted to take a cruise for so long and finally after 16 years I have convinced my DH to go :D

Thanks for the heads up about dining clothes for Sat. night. I was thinking, 1st on, 1st luggage to the rooms...silly me. We'll be sure to bring some casual clothes with us in our day bag. We were thinking of carrying our garment bag with our formals on with us. The only thing is that we would have to carry it around until we are able to go to our room. This seems like it will be a hassle. Would checking them in be ok? I just don't want to receive them back in a crumbled mess.

I see you have ownership in HHI. We joined here also and love it. We were going to join at a resort in DW but realized that in a few years, our kiddos will be off doing their own thing so we joined where WE want to vacation the most. In fact, when we get back from our Cruise, it will be time to call and book for our trip there for next summer. :p That is why I love dvc so much!! We always have a great trip waiting for us!!

[cjp/dvc]

:cool: Thanks for the warm welcome Melissa...my DH avoided cruises for about fourteen years...said his ship to Vietnam was enough sailing for him...terribly seasick (do you think it had anything to do with where he was being sent at the ripe age of 19?) Anyway...now he wears a patch...and is on his 3rd cruise and swears by it! I'm sure yours will do the same once he experiences it for himself.
Glad the hint on the clothes was helpful...I have had some luggage stories, to be shared later (airline problems, never Disney) so the hints were learned the hard way! Regarding your formalwear...by all means check it in! It will arrive just fine...if it needs a little touchup there are laundry rooms with irons on every deck..don't hassle with lots of unnecessary carry ons...its enough to take what you must have...remember...everyone of the other 2400 guests is doing the same thing...
Enjoy the embarkation...it is really fun...you will be met a the doorway of the ship and formally introduced as the_____ family to the captain and Mickey...of course the obligatory boarding photo will be taken and the lobby is grand! Just relax and enjoy...you will most certainly be able to go right to your rooms...as they are almost always ready!
We bought in HHI after OKW as we had vacationed there a few times and it is just a 12 hour drive from home...thought we'd make more use of it...love it...beach, restaurants and shopping. However, we have also become fond of many of the concierge offerings and frequently use the HHI pts. for them...knowing as retirement nears we too will visit there often...
We'll need to chat more on ship...about DVC...didn't I read someone else has a wife who is a teacher? We share the same problem...enough points, never enough vacation time during off peak time...
Bon voyage!
Chris & Joe

[DOOGIERUNNER]

Chris and Joe... it was probably me... my wife is a teacher. Great summer vacations but we can never go anywhere "off-season". The positives definitely outweigh the negatives but I sure wish we could cruise in Feb :).

DVC is wonderful!!!

[cjp/dvc]

:bounce: :bounce:
Yep...that's us...It's time to go! First thing tomorrow morning...will be at Boardwalk then off to Magic with all of you! Will look for lanyards (green?) for 4:30 meeting but will certainly have some sort of DIStag in sight...I get the feeling since we are probably the oldest of the DISers and childfree we might be obvious!

Doogie...what does your wife teach? I am a high school assistant principal...and we have had to play the school vacation only game for years...thats why we bought into DVC...what a steal...oops I mean deal! Can't wait to go over and check out the new Beach Club Villas!

Windyguy...Cant get through to your email address so heres the answer to the question re arrival at port time...It varies...some will arrive by 10easily...its a great terminal, snak bar (dont eat much...buffet on board is super!) but it has muffins & coffee, a great giant model of the ship/cutaway, restrooms, terrazzo floor with oceans marked, etc. You will sit on the floor in line.
Disney says you board at 1pm...they almost always start by 12:15. Line moves quickly once open then head to your rooms to pick up your dinner & character breakfast tickets & drop off day bags...head to Topsider Deck 9aft or Parrot Cay Deck 3aft for lunch...plan the last of your ressies as you eat then head straight upstairs to Palo deck10 aft for the 1pm ressies. You should be able to get what you wish...the spa usually opens about 1:45 for their tours & ressies- Deck 9 forward so you can go there from Palo's. If you need to register kids too, perhaps you want to split up & do both at once.
I have on one occasion arrived at the terminal at 3:45 (what a near disaster) and still was able to get decent reservations at Palo and Spa...but I would say that was lucky...If you do the 1 - 2pm time, you will do fine!
Good Luck...see you on board!

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

cjp/dvc

Please don't worry about finding a "green" lanyard. We're going to have our KTTW landyards on that day (DCL room key lanyard). I just thought lanyards w/our DIS ids on them would make it easier for everyone to find eachother. It's not a necessity, if you don't have any lanyards, forget about it. I'm sure enough of us will have some on where you'll easily be able to find our group.

See everyone on Saturday!!!

:Pinkbounc :wave: :Pinkbounc :earsgirl: :Pinkbounc

[cjp/dvc]

Disney Cruiseluvr
Thanks for the reprieve on the green lanyard thing! I actually just packed a black headband with Mickey Mouse heads on springs...like antenna...I last used it leading a youth group I was chaperoning in Epcot, so they could find me! How appropriate to use it again this time to find the DISers. My DH will surely be the gentleman pretending not to know the blond alien!
Looking forward to sharing a Disney hello to you all. Have a safe trip...C ya on board (finally shipboard instead of DISboard)
:wave::wave:

[GrandPaBob]

Talked with my gradson, Payton(age 6), this evening and he is ready to go NOW! He can't wait to see Mickey and Minnie and Goofy and all the other kids on the boat. He has seen the video we shot from our last cruise a couple of years ago and he is ready to go.
http://members.aol.com/robertj85/wetboy.jpg
:cool: We are the people our parents warned us about!:cool:
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[cjp/dvc]

GrandPaBob
Hi there...love your signature about we are the people our parents warned us about! Hmmm...sounds like you join us in being the first generation raised on Disney...
The picture of your grandson is precious...thanks for sharing it...I think we are all 6 years old in our hearts...we can't wait to go either...
We look forward to the day we can introduce grandchildren to Disney fun...have to get our son married first...but till then we just enjoy watching everyone else's children's eyes pop open when they see the characters!
Hope to see you at the 4:30 meeting on board.

[PartiesNBalloons]

Just wanted to wish everyone safe traveling to the vacation of our lives! I can't wait to meet everyone! This is going to be FUN, FUN, FUN!! :Pinkbounc

See ya at 4:30 on Saturday!

[GrandPaBob]

The picture of Payton shows how easy it is for him to have fun(or get in trouble). Don't know what he will be wearing saturday, but you can bet he will try to be close to the action at the sailaway party.
I can't take credit for the signature line-it belongs to Jimmy Buffett, but it is kinda appropriate.
http://members.aol.com/robertj85/wetboy.jpg
:cool: We are the people our parents warned us about!:cool:
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[cjp/dvc]

:bounce: :bounce:
GrandPaBob...
wow, a Disney fan and a Parrothead...perhaps we'll share a cheeseburger in paradise...see you on board...
This is our sign-off...its 6:30am...and the car is pulling out as I type...have a safe journey everyone! See you on the Magic!
Chris & Joe

[PartiesNBalloons]

Hey fellow cruisers!

I cannot believe the time has come!! We are completely packed and counting the hours down til we pull out of the driveway!! :Pinkbounc

I look forward to meeting everyone!! See ya on Saturday!

10 hours and counting down :bounce:

[Laura E.]

:bounce: :p :earsboy: :earsgirl: :crazy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :Pinkbounc

Hello to anybody still out there. The other SOCAL's have finally landed. We touched down safely and soundly at about 4 p.m. FL time. We found our bags and went to find a hotel room. We ended up at Orange Lake Holiday Inn. It's actually not too bad. All 5 of us are staying in a 2 queen room with a mini-refrig and micro. Not too bad for $80/pr night w/o ressies! And, I can see several of the hotels on Hotel row. Pretty close. We will see you all on Saturday. Just couldn't help myself and had to get online. ;)

Okay girls, Jacqui, Hanna, Amanda and others, keep a lookout for Megan. She returned from Hawaii with cornrows at the top of her head. She has blue bands in her hair. That's her! Say hi as she tends to be rather shy at first.

All others, we will be playing it cool until Saturday and don't really plan to do any parks until after we get back. We're pretty tired as DH pulled an all-nighter with an electrician (we broke ground on our 2nd story and had to move the electrical panel.) I myself stayed up until 3:00 and got up at 4:45 to be at LAX by 6:00. Lines there weren't too bad and we breezed by in just under 45 minutes. Got some sleep on the plane but am really messed up by the time change. Hope we all adjust by Saturday.

Anyway, looking forward to meeting everybody. Sorry I didn't get to send pix all as DH installed a new printer/scanner and I didn't get a chance learn how to use it properly. Men & their toys!

Oh well, for those here all ready, have fun and see you real soon. For those leaving real soon, have a safe trip and hope you are as relieved as I was when we got here safely.

We will have e-mail access all the way up to Saturday morn and plan to be around the pool area at the Radisson on Friday night for those that can make it. Hope to see you there!

Bye for now -

We made it!!

Laura E.

[PartiesNBalloons]

Glad to hear you arrived safely Laura. We're leaving in about 4 hours ourselves :Pinkbounc We'll see you at the Radisson on Friday night. We'll call when we get checked-in. :)

4 hours and counting down!!!

[floridaminnie]

We don't leave until 7am on Saturday, so I hope ya'll are enjoying your pre-cruise vacation. See you on Saturday!

[DOOGIERUNNER]

7 mos. of waiting. Leaving in 6 hours!!!

[amcanzo]

Laura - Glad to hear you made it safely! We leave at 4:30 am on Saturday to make it to the airport on time! Looking forward to meeting you all! :Pinkbounc :bounce:

Ann

[GrandPaBob]

We are leaving Indy saturday morning on Delta. Then taking the Mears transfer to the boat. It worked out well the last time. Hopefully it will this time too. Payton is all ready to leave except..." I still need to find my Gameboy, then I can go".
http://members.aol.com/robertj85/paytip.jpg

One more day of work, then....:jester: WOO HOO:jester:

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:cool: We are the people our parents warned us about!:cool:

[dreamflight99]

Laura & Melissa...we're here already too. We are comfy @ Disney's Vero Beach here in S. Florida. We stayed at the Peabody(Club Level) for the first eve (7/12) and loved watching the Duck March as if it were our first time, three eves in a Portofino Bay Hotel Suite (IOA/US/Emerils,etc.!),and then here until Saturday! We rented an expedition when we arived from LAX @ MCO, and will drop this off in Cape Canaveral Sat. We are excited about the Cruise, and are having a lovely vacation in the meantime here in DVBR. I'll tell DD to look-out for Megan & the Cornrows!;) Have to fill out all the Docs and tag the luggage...TTFN!:sunny: :wave: