What's the Big Deal With Staying On Property Anyway? *Goodbyes* 12/17 p.114 [Archive] - Page 3 - The DIS Discussion Forums

eandesmom

04-17-2009, 11:01 AM

Great updates!

I am really hoping on our next trip to make it closer to rope drop. I have no real illusions of rope drop (maybe by day 4) as that darn time difference is tough to overcome but given that the next trip will be teen free and the little ones rise early...it's possible!

Despite many many attempts, we were only able to get on TSM ONCE our entire trip. 5 minutes before EMH closed! One of the many reasons why EMH saved our trip.

It was SOOOOO worth it! Your RRC pic is a riot. I confess, we bought almost all our ride pics (at the insistence of a certain 16yo) and I have 3 of them framed as a collage they are so funny...2 of which are our RRC pics.

I do think our funniest one is from Test Track though, DSD12 just looks petrified.

In the spirit of sharing...even though I haven't gotten to that part of my trip report yet

DSD and I are in the front of this one. I have my normal ride picture of grinning like an idiot. It was a theme in the pictures, pretty funny actually. DSD was more freaked out about what her hair looked like in this pic. LOL!

http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k308/eandesmom/Travel/Disney/2-15/RockandRollerCoaster2.jpg

The rest of my gang is in this car. DS9 has the "dumbfounded" look you mention for Sully...also a recurring theme in the pics.
http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k308/eandesmom/Travel/Disney/2-15/RockandRollerCoaster.jpg

I confess on this one we kind of "lied" to DSD12. About how upside down (and how many times) it went. She loved it, and went again later but had she known ahead of time, wouldn't have gone and admitted it, was glad she did and glad we didn't reallly give her the whole scoop!

jmskinner

04-17-2009, 11:17 AM

I guess all of us reading Carissa's TR have found a way to entertain ourselves while she is gone, so I will throw in my funny ride photo.

Me and DH are in the front and my Mom and Stepdad are behind us. Check out my mom:
http://i288.photobucket.com/albums/ll170/jmskinner1/Christmas%202008/AK%20122808/EE122808.jpg

torsie24

04-17-2009, 11:31 AM

eandesmom

04-17-2009, 12:01 PM

jmskinner

04-17-2009, 12:02 PM

Hee hee, your Mom doens't look likes she's enjoying it too much!

Out of interest - how much are the photos at WDW?

We get the 2 5x7 for about $20, they have different packages. TT is set up so you can add it to Photopass, but it is the only ride like that. I sure wish they would make all of them like that.

Funny thing is, my Mom loves rollercoasters. That was all she kept asking, "Do they have any rollercoasters?" Then she does this!

eandesmom

04-17-2009, 12:07 PM

Hee hee, your Mom doens't look likes she's enjoying it too much!

Out of interest - how much are the photos at WDW?

Good question, too much. LOL! maybe $15 for one 5x7? We were a challenge, often being in 2 cars (which meant 2 pcis but they let me get a 2 5x7 package but use 2 pictures which made it less than 2 individual 5x7's if that makes sense) but I will say that the photo quality/clarity of the ones at the ride, versus the TT photopass one (the only coaster that will put it on your pp) was a ton better. Esp the RRC for some reason.

I wouldn't have bought as many had Steven not been so into it. When the 16 year old gets excited about something we'd been stressed about him enjoying (aka the whole thing....WDW with the family at 16 lol) we kind of jump on it and feed it. And I'm glad I did, I love the pictures!

NWOhioDennis

04-17-2009, 12:37 PM

[QUOTE=Lifelong_Dreamer;31365605]Nothing wrong with driving to the parks, I agree with you that it is so much easier than the buses. :thumbsup2

I agree. The buses can take a long time and one of the benefits of staying on property is; [COLOR="blue"]you don't have to pay for parking at the parks when you are a resort guest. :yay:

Kimberly815

04-17-2009, 01:23 PM

I just found your trip report this morning. I am all caught up now! I can't wait for another update!

VAisforDisneyLvrs

04-17-2009, 01:34 PM

Up until that point, I had only ever done Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. I use to be a thrill rider in my younger days, but something happened as I got older. I hate the way my stomach feels during drops and I don't really thrive on fear anymore. :rolleyes1

I feel the same way! We go to Busch Gardens Europe all the time. I used to ride the roller coasters, but now I am content to take Johanna to the little rides while Jason and the the girls go on the scary ones! It does make me feel kind of silly that my 8 year old will ride Apollo's Chariot while I am happy on the train! :rotfl:

When I went with my sister last October she made me ride Space Mountain. Once was enough! Lucky for me this time it will be closed for refurbishment! This year she insists I have to ride ToT and RnR.:scared1:I am still trying to figure out if I can get out of it.:rolleyes1

Nuwanda9

04-17-2009, 03:31 PM

Delurking here--I would totally tear up, too! I've stayed at POFQ a few times and when I walk up to the door, the thought going thru my head is, "I'm home.". Which is probably why I love WDW so much. As soon as I am on property I feel safe and at home. :love:

DisMomAmy

04-17-2009, 04:09 PM

I'm so glad you rode RnRC!! I LOVE it!! I can't wait to ride this year - I'm hoping Alex doesn't chicken out on me - he loves EE, ToT and everything else. But he chickened out at a theme park we visited this summer when he could see that the roller coaster went upside down. I know he'll love it if I can get him into the seat. ;)

I love all the pictures everyone is posting! I'll have to see if I can find any good ones.

Charleston Princess

04-17-2009, 08:59 PM

Oh, Carissa, you are so much braver than I will ever be! ;)

Happydog

04-17-2009, 09:40 PM

Oh, Carissa, you are so much braver than I will ever be! ;)

Ditto for me, CP! Okay, Carissa, all caught up now!

1. Cracker Barrel is a FAVORITE of ours -- we even drive to Frederick sometimes just to go for breakfast :laughing: But my DH is a pro at "sniffing out" the Cracker Barrels on road trips!

2. TOT and the RRC um, ONCE I have been. And ONCE is enough.

3. The drive to FL seemed crazy, but how lucky you were. The photos of the drive were startling :scared:

4. POR is very pretty from these photos! I have never been! We did take the boat from DTD and SSR a few time. I totally enjoyed that too! :thumbsup

I can't wait to hear the rest of your trip play by play! :)

jmskinner

04-17-2009, 09:49 PM

Ditto for me, CP! Okay, Carissa, all caught up now!

1. Cracker Barrel is a FAVORITE of ours -- we even drive to Frederick sometimes just to go for breakfast :laughing: But my DH is a pro at "sniffing out" the Cracker Barrels on road trips!

2. TOT and the RRC um, ONCE I have been. And ONCE is enough.

3. The drive to FL seemed crazy, but how lucky you were. The photos of the drive were startling :scared:

4. POR is very pretty from these photos! I have never been! We did take the boat from DTD and SSR a few time. I totally enjoyed that too! :thumbsup

I can't wait to hear the rest of your trip play by play! :)

I saw you mentioned Frederick. We lived in Rockville, MD five or so years ago and went through or to Frederick often. Has it grown a lot? Trying to remember if there was a Cracker Barrel back then.

WillowBelle

04-17-2009, 10:36 PM

We are another Cracker Barrel travelin' family. The bathrooms are usually much cleaner than the gas station ones and it's nice to stretch your legs in the store.

scottny

04-18-2009, 01:41 AM

Ok...ready for a good laugh? This picture was just TOO FUNNY to not purchase! And I'm only sharing it cause you asked so nicely! LOL! It will tie you over until I get back with more crazy WDW pics! :goodvibes

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/image8-5-2008.jpg

How do you like me now!! LOL!!!:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

that is the one on top of the building right? I could never do that. :faint:

Ok have to post mine. Biff said people laughed at me. :mad:
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g134/scottny/disney%20xmas%20trip/day%203/scan.jpg
That launch is a whopper but the rest was lame.

VAisforDisneyLvrs

04-18-2009, 09:43 AM

Ok...ready for a good laugh? This picture was just TOO FUNNY to not purchase! And I'm only sharing it cause you asked so nicely! LOL! It will tie you over until I get back with more crazy WDW pics! :goodvibes

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m1/missyp_02/image8-5-2008.jpg

How do you like me now!! LOL!!!:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

My 8 year old said you look like a vampire and the man (your husband?) looks like he's trying to poop! :rotfl:

We have a very funny picture from the first time the kids rode Dinosaur. If I can figure out how to scan it and post it I will. :)Ruby was only 4 and has a look of complete terror on her face. Faith has her head buried under her hands and into her dad's side.

mousescrapper

04-18-2009, 09:52 AM

Carissa....RnR is not that bad, I am a bit of a roller coaster junkie and love RnR and TT. Could ride them all day, now Star Tours is different. One time on that ride is enough for my stomach:eek:

I'm w/ you just love the coasters....but I totally pass on the motion rides....and my DH is the complete opposite.

I wish I had a funny ride photo to share to go w/ all of yours.....

Jensspark

04-18-2009, 02:57 PM

How cool of you to ride RNR for your son's sake! It sounds like a blast...I can't wait to ride this summer when we go. :banana:

DisneyJo

04-18-2009, 03:24 PM

Just read all your TR thanks to your handy links. I love POR too and it's the boat trip that makes for me too :thumbsup2

You're so brave going on RnR, I went on it 2 years ago with my DD and she hated it, she literally went green :rotfl: Oh and TSM is awesome isn't it!!!

carissanboys

04-19-2009, 07:33 AM

Whew! Just made it to the end of this TR. Can I join the fan club :rotfl: also? We HAVE to have a fan while we sleep, for the noise!

Love the pictures of your room. We've always only stayed at value resorts. I'm crossing my fingers that DH will agree to staying at a mod. next year when we go.

:welcome: I just got back from a night away from home and so wished I had brought my fan with me!!! I hope you get to stay at a mod. :thumbsup2

Way to be brave! I do NOT like rollercoasters of any kind, so there's no way I'm getting on RnRc! My husband loves coasters though, so he is happy to volunteer for roller coaster duty. That picture is great. I'm thinking maybe your Christmas card?;)

:rotfl: I don't know about that!

TSM is a great ride. We loved it, but only got to ride it once. I can ride RNR once , but I can ride TOT over and over.

You must have a strong stomach! ;)

See, I can do Star Tours with no problem - but I am NOT a big fan of big roller coasters! I did Space Mountain - that was the biggest one for me, especially since it is such an icon and I knew it was going to get refurbed. But, I was way too chicken to do either ToT or RNR! Ds had originally wanted to do ToT, but he had also decided that he wanted to spend a lot of time with Mom that day and he knew I didn't want to ride it - so sweet of him.

So, congrats on doing RNR! I love how all the photos you guys posted have such similar expressions on your faces!

I was okay with Star Tours, but I really didn't enjoy it. Hmmmm - I wonder if I finally rode Space Mountain on this trip? :rolleyes1

Way to go, Carissa!! :thumbsup2 Oh, the things we moms do for our kids!!!

Have a great weekend...

Kathy

Thanks Kathy! :goodvibes

Great updates!

I am really hoping on our next trip to make it closer to rope drop. I have no real illusions of rope drop (maybe by day 4) as that darn time difference is tough to overcome but given that the next trip will be teen free and the little ones rise early...it's possible!

Despite many many attempts, we were only able to get on TSM ONCE our entire trip. 5 minutes before EMH closed! One of the many reasons why EMH saved our trip.

It was SOOOOO worth it! Your RRC pic is a riot. I confess, we bought almost all our ride pics (at the insistence of a certain 16yo) and I have 3 of them framed as a collage they are so funny...2 of which are our RRC pics.

Thanks for sharing your pictures! I find getting there close to rope drop is what really allows you to get a lot done in that first hour or two before it gets busy.

I guess all of us reading Carissa's TR have found a way to entertain ourselves while she is gone, so I will throw in my funny ride photo.

Me and DH are in the front and my Mom and Stepdad are behind us. Check out my mom:

I am loving that everyone shared their pictures! I remember seeing this one in your TR. ;)

I agree. The buses can take a long time and one of the benefits of staying on property is; you don't have to pay for parking at the parks when you are a resort guest. :yay:

Yup - definitely a nice benefit. :thumbsup2

I just found your trip report this morning. I am all caught up now! I can't wait for another update!

:welcome: Thanks for reading!

carissanboys

04-19-2009, 07:33 AM

I feel the same way! We go to Busch Gardens Europe all the time. I used to ride the roller coasters, but now I am content to take Johanna to the little rides while Jason and the the girls go on the scary ones! It does make me feel kind of silly that my 8 year old will ride Apollo's Chariot while I am happy on the train! :rotfl:

When I went with my sister last October she made me ride Space Mountain. Once was enough! Lucky for me this time it will be closed for refurbishment! This year she insists I have to ride ToT and RnR.:scared1:I am still trying to figure out if I can get out of it.:rolleyes1

The only really "scary" part of Rock 'n' Roller Coaster was the take off.

Delurking here--I would totally tear up, too! I've stayed at POFQ a few times and when I walk up to the door, the thought going thru my head is, "I'm home.". Which is probably why I love WDW so much. As soon as I am on property I feel safe and at home. :love:

:welcome: Thanks for delurking! That's the great thing about the Dis - everyone understands how we feel about WDW. :love:

I'm so glad you rode RnRC!! I LOVE it!! I can't wait to ride this year - I'm hoping Alex doesn't chicken out on me - he loves EE, ToT and everything else. But he chickened out at a theme park we visited this summer when he could see that the roller coaster went upside down. I know he'll love it if I can get him into the seat. ;)

I love all the pictures everyone is posting! I'll have to see if I can find any good ones.

The upside down part really didn't bother me at all. I hope you can find some and post them here! :thumbsup2

Oh, Carissa, you are so much braver than I will ever be! ;)

:rotfl:

Ditto for me, CP! Okay, Carissa, all caught up now! :)

Yay for getting caught up! :goodvibes

We are another Cracker Barrel travelin' family. The bathrooms are usually much cleaner than the gas station ones and it's nice to stretch your legs in the store.

:thumbsup2

That launch is a whopper but the rest was lame.

The launch is really the only part that is crazy.

We have a very funny picture from the first time the kids rode Dinosaur. If I can figure out how to scan it and post it I will. :)Ruby was only 4 and has a look of complete terror on her face. Faith has her head buried under her hands and into her dad's side.

[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

Hope you can scan it!

I'm w/ you just love the coasters....but I totally pass on the motion rides....and my DH is the complete opposite.

I wish I had a funny ride photo to share to go w/ all of yours.....

I think it's so cool that we had so many people share their photos here! :grouphug:

How cool of you to ride RNR for your son's sake! It sounds like a blast...I can't wait to ride this summer when we go. :banana:

It was one of those things that I wanted to do, but I don't know if I would have done it without my son pushing me - you know?

Just read all your TR thanks to your handy links. I love POR too and it's the boat trip that makes for me too :thumbsup2

You're so brave going on RnR, I went on it 2 years ago with my DD and she hated it, she literally went green :rotfl: Oh and TSM is awesome isn't it!!!

:welcome: Hey Jo!! Glad to have you here! :goodvibes Thankfully, I didn't feel sick after it and I was fine once that crazy take off was over. ;)

MeMom

04-19-2009, 07:51 AM

The only really "scary" part of Rock 'n' Roller Coaster was the take off.

This is one of two rides I can't do. This one for the jerkiness of the take-off and Mission:Space for the closed in factor. I like the ride part of Rock 'n Roller Coaster, but the take-off hurts my neck for some reason. I may try it again someday, but for now, I'm not going to be making anyone else's line any longer than it has to be.

Hope you are having a fun weekend!

carissanboys

04-19-2009, 08:45 AM

This is one of two rides I can't do. This one for the jerkiness of the take-off and Mission:Space for the closed in factor. I like the ride part of Rock 'n Roller Coaster, but the take-off hurts my neck for some reason. I may try it again someday, but for now, I'm not going to be making anyone else's line any longer than it has to be.

Hope you are having a fun weekend!

Thanks MeMom! We got back a little early from our trip. About to post a mini-TR. :goodvibes

carissanboys

04-19-2009, 08:59 AM

I'm back! We ended up heading home last night around 7:30 instead of spending a second night down in VA Beach. We didn't sleep very well the night before and I just wanted to get home. We arrived back here around 11:30, which means it's a four hour drive without traffic.

We headed out on Friday around 1 p.m. and did okay with traffic until we got closer to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and the tunnel. It was pretty slow moving after that. We found the state park and cabin we were staying at and then headed down to the beachfront. We ate dinner at Murphy's Irish Pub.

Here's a few pictures from our meal:

I had Irish Stew with soda bread.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3230.jpg

And a Guinness of course!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3227.jpg

This was hanging by our table and the caption read, "I told you so." Maybe it's suppose to be in reference to the earth being flat? :confused3

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3229.jpg

After dinner we headed down to the beach for a stroll.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/CarissaVAB2.jpg

This was taken with the beach behind us, but of course - too dark to see.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3237-1.jpg

the boardwalk

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3242.jpg

The next day we looked at two different townhouse developments. The first I wasn't impressed with, but I loved the second. I went ahead and filled out the application and even signed a lease! So, the big news is we have a place to live! :cool1:

Here's a picture of our new house:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3251.jpg

The overall square footage is a bit smaller than what we have now and it's only a 3 bedroom as opposed to a four. But, the bedrooms are all quite a bit larger as is the main bathroom. There's an awesome pool and gym close to our building and the best part is the boys will be going to an awesome school. :thumbsup2

After finally taking care of business, we had dinner at a Mexican restaurant. I only took a picture of dessert - churros! These were sooooo good!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3255.jpg

I loved the sinks in the bathroom!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3256.jpg

It was a productive trip and I'm glad the househunting is over with. I think I got a good feel for the area and I'm really excited about the move. Every store we could ever want is pretty much close by to where we'll be living. And there's so much to do.

A little less than two months and we'll be there!

Up Next - Look Out!! It's the Amazing Collosal Man!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31447452&postcount=557)

Charleston Princess

04-19-2009, 09:05 AM

Yeay for having a place to live!!! The sinks at the Mexican restaurant are beautiful!

jmskinner

04-19-2009, 09:13 AM

That looks a lot like the townhome we had in DC. Any type of yard behind it? Will you be able to move right in? I'm really glad you found a place.

I also realized I am very jealous. You are only moving 4 hours away from where you are now. We have never been that fortunate. AL, SC, DC, TX, to FL.

Ok, I'm waiting for an update.:surfweb:

DisMomAmy

04-19-2009, 09:24 AM

Congrats on the new home!! :cool1: I'm glad your trip was a success!

LaurenMic

04-19-2009, 10:16 AM

Hi Carissa!

You're so brave for doing RnRC! What a nice mom you are :goodvibes The launch is insane, it makes my eyes water! I always look like I've been crying when I come off of that one. That and I lose my voice from screaming!

Glad house hunting went well! The house looks so cute! And so does the Mexican restaurant, mmmm churros!

KathyRN137

04-19-2009, 10:36 AM

So glad you found your new townhome!! I hope you'll be very happy while you're there! :goodvibes

Kathy

dddisrunner

04-19-2009, 10:48 AM

Glad the househunting was successful!:thumbsup2 Looks like you had a great meal!! I am so proud of you that you went on Rock n Rollercoaster!:thumbsup2

scottny

04-19-2009, 12:24 PM

glad you found something so quickly, it sounds very nice. :thumbsup2

Blueyed Girl

04-19-2009, 02:19 PM

Blueyed Girl

04-19-2009, 02:29 PM

hee hee!! All the ride photo's are making me crack up. Glad I'm not the only one!!! Here's mine, I'm in front....

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3545/3455865765_1510161403_o.jpg

momrek06

04-19-2009, 02:51 PM

Carissa, wow, your thread is amazing. :woohoo: I am actually having trouble keeping up!!! But anyway, RnRC...you are INDEED one VERY VERY BRAVE LADY!! :eek:
I did RnRC ONCE and that was TOO MUCH FOR ME!!! :scared1:

:yay: YOU HAVE A NEW HOME!!! YIPPEE SKIPPEE!!! :yay: It looks so awesome!!! You and Chuck must be thrilled that is now all handled!!! You can move ahead with every other detail now to start your move!!! :yay:

Irish Stew....ahhh YUMMY!!! :banana:

We have this amazing Irish Pub right down the street from us called MULDOON's and we try to get there often. Their Shepard's Pie is 5000 calories to die for!!! :rotfl2: Oh and AND AND we have another Irish Pub called the AULD DUBLINER and the owner is so into the RED SOX and the PATS and has the games on his large plasma screen tv's playing ALL THE TIME....so cool for us all the way here in CA!!! :love:

MeMom

04-19-2009, 03:28 PM

I loved the sinks in the bathroom!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3256.jpg

It sounds like things are falling into place for you. You sound pretty up about the move, so that is good for everyone. It'll be yet another adventure for your boys.

As for the sink, I would have been washing my hands and pretending I was at Coronado Springs Resort, of course! :laughing:

mousescrapper

04-19-2009, 04:48 PM

:thumbsup2:yay: for news on your new home! I'm sure you can't wait to be settled in! Hope the transistion continues to move along well for all....

and I swear....but as I looked at your picture of Irish Stew....I could smell it and it was yummy....I must be hungry :rotfl:

cjackearl

04-19-2009, 04:51 PM

Congratulations on success in the house hunt! The night time picture of the boardwalk is very cool.

pamouselover

04-19-2009, 08:03 PM

:lovestruc All caught up, sounds like you are loving the resort.
So glad you found a nice house in VA. Very cute. I will be down visiting this summer!:cutie:

Happydog

04-19-2009, 08:39 PM

I saw you mentioned Frederick. We lived in Rockville, MD five or so years ago and went through or to Frederick often. Has it grown a lot? Trying to remember if there was a Cracker Barrel back then.

Carissa, just a quick side swipe to your TR -- hope that is okay -- Frederick, we don't really go to Frederick, just old town at Christmas, it is festive, and to CrackerBarrel (it is right up 270 before you get into Frederick proper. We go through Frederick sometimes, as a drive through to other places.. Wineries, to be exact! :thumbsup2

Carissa, the new townhouse looks nice! I like the brick front. And good schools are most important, so that is great. I have never been to VA Beach after living here for 12 years! :rolleyes:

Connorsmom0

04-20-2009, 05:39 AM

Hi! I have been reading along. I love the pics and updates. Congrats on the new place. We have close friends that live in Virginia Beach. The wife is a Math Coach/consulatant for VB school district. Some of the schools are really awesome there!

carissanboys

04-20-2009, 06:33 AM

Yeay for having a place to live!!! The sinks at the Mexican restaurant are beautiful!

Isn't it? The whole restaurant was nicely decorated.

That looks a lot like the townhome we had in DC. Any type of yard behind it? Will you be able to move right in? I'm really glad you found a place.

I also realized I am very jealous. You are only moving 4 hours away from where you are now. We have never been that fortunate. AL, SC, DC, TX, to FL.

Ok, I'm waiting for an update.:surfweb:

Not really any yard, unfortunately. There is a patio that is fully enclosed for privacy and there's a common grassy area behind that. There is also a playground nearby. We're trying to work on the details of when we're moving. We had wanted to move after the boys finish school, but we have to start paying on the new place the end of May.

I actually like moving further away, but this will make things easier for sure.

Congrats on the new home!! :cool1: I'm glad your trip was a success!

Thanks Amy :goodvibes

Hi Carissa!

You're so brave for doing RnRC! What a nice mom you are :goodvibes The launch is insane, it makes my eyes water! I always look like I've been crying when I come off of that one. That and I lose my voice from screaming!

Glad house hunting went well! The house looks so cute! And so does the Mexican restaurant, mmmm churros!

My hair was pretty crazy after Rock 'n' Roller Coaster! :rotfl:

So glad you found your new townhome!! I hope you'll be very happy while you're there! :goodvibes

Kathy

Thanks Kathy! It's nice having that taken care of. :goodvibes

Glad the househunting was successful!:thumbsup2 Looks like you had a great meal!! I am so proud of you that you went on Rock n Rollercoaster!:thumbsup2

Thanks Diane - I'm proud of myself too! ;)

glad you found something so quickly, it sounds very nice. :thumbsup2

I hope we like living there. I'm pretty sure we will.

carissanboys

04-20-2009, 06:34 AM

Trying to catch up on my TR reading!

Yay!! So, you found out where you are going next AND you found a place to live. Very nice!! So excited for you guys. Wow, it's going to be a busy next 2 months, right??

Hey Cherie! I saw you posted some updates on your TR and I'll get there soon to get caught up. :thumbsup2 Yes - the next two months will be busy!

And great photo! Thanks for sharing. :flower3:

Carissa, We have this amazing Irish Pub right down the street from us called MULDOON's and we try to get there often. Their Shepard's Pie is 5000 calories to die for!!! :rotfl2: Oh and AND AND we have another Irish Pub called the AULD DUBLINER and the owner is so into the RED SOX and the PATS and has the games on his large plasma screen tv's playing ALL THE TIME....so cool for us all the way here in CA!!! :love:

Sounds like an awesome place Karen! I love Shepherd's Pie. :goodvibes

It sounds like things are falling into place for you. You sound pretty up about the move, so that is good for everyone. It'll be yet another adventure for your boys.

As for the sink, I would have been washing my hands and pretending I was at Coronado Springs Resort, of course! :laughing:

:rotfl: I did use the restroom twice!

:thumbsup2:yay: for news on your new home! I'm sure you can't wait to be settled in! Hope the transistion continues to move along well for all....

and I swear....but as I looked at your picture of Irish Stew....I could smell it and it was yummy....I must be hungry :rotfl:

:thumbsup2 It was very good. A bit spicy with lots of flavor.

Congratulations on success in the house hunt! The night time picture of the boardwalk is very cool.

Thanks!

:lovestruc All caught up, sounds like you are loving the resort.
So glad you found a nice house in VA. Very cute. I will be down visiting this summer!:cutie:

Okie dokie! :goodvibes

Carissa, the new townhouse looks nice! I like the brick front. And good schools are most important, so that is great. I have never been to VA Beach after living here for 12 years! :rolleyes:

In the 6 years that we've lived in the area total - I have neve been down to VA Beach either. I'm really looking forward to living so close to the beach. :goodvibes

Hi! I have been reading along. I love the pics and updates. Congrats on the new place. We have close friends that live in Virginia Beach. The wife is a Math Coach/consulatant for VB school district. Some of the schools are really awesome there!

:welcome: to another mom with a Connor! Thanks for joining in. I've heard great things about the schools and the one they'll be going to in particular has very high test scores and very high parent rewiews so I'm stoked about that. :thumbsup2

MagicShell

04-20-2009, 10:42 AM

Congratulations on finding a place to live. I am glad you are excited about the move. I hope your boys are excited as well.

jcc0621

04-20-2009, 11:33 AM

Congratulations on finding a place to live. I'm that is a hug weight off your shoulders:goodvibes

irene_dsc

04-20-2009, 12:24 PM

I've heard great things about the schools and the one they'll be going to in particular has very high test scores and very high parent rewiews so I'm stoked about that. :thumbsup2

Yay on a new place to live! I hope the high test scores aren't due to high amounts of homework, or other similar insanity! High parent reviews are a good sign. :banana:

Goofy442

04-20-2009, 03:16 PM

Congratulations :cool1: on your new home. I have moved once and couldn't believe how much stuff we collected. Good luck with the move just thinking about it freaks me out.

VandyFan10

04-20-2009, 10:48 PM

Carissa!!! I have no idea how I've missed your TR's!! :confused3 Only on about the 3rd segment and it is AWESOME! Can't wait to read more :goodvibes

We always eat at Cracker Barrel when we're traveling. :thumbsup2
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2868.jpg

:love: Cracker Barrel, but is funny, growing up in Middle TN you see them EVERYWHERE and you just think they must be everywhere else!

I've wanted to try this chicken melt, looks wonderful. Might have to have hubby take me there soon! My biggest problem is I can't get away from ordering their breakfast!!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2880.jpg

Yep....that's the bottom of a tractor-trailer truck. We have had some crazy storms here lately in the midstate, but a small one that went through Donelson (just east of Nashville) turned over 2 trucks just like that....right in the middle of the interstate blocking the lanes, in both east and west bound traffic :scared1:....it was CRAZY!!!

I got off an exit and got back on just past the trucks....was pretty amazing seeing those things on their sides. Both of our truck drivers were ok too, and luckily they were the only ones involved...pretty amazing really :upsidedow

It cost us another 50 cents to get off and back onto I4. Can you believe it cost us $1.00 to pee???

:lmao:

there was indeed a separate line for online check in and it was very short (probably because most people didn't know it existed!). I recommend making sure to ask or look for those signs up near the desks.

Did not know about this....please do tell!!! :flower3:

The CM also gave me my birthday pin (the first of 3 I would receive):
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_3226.jpg

Woooooo Hooooooo :woohoo: I'll get one of these :yay:!!!

And I have an 'i' in my name too so maybe I'll get a :mickeyjum dot too!!! :dance3:

We stayed at POFQ Dec '07 and I :love:ed it....was a wonderful place for me and hubby and it's SO cute and quaint!!

Will be back later to read more.....:thumbsup2

carissanboys

04-21-2009, 06:48 AM

Congratulations on finding a place to live. I am glad you are excited about the move. I hope your boys are excited as well.

I think they are. My oldest is sad to be leaving his friends behind, but all of my boys like adventure - just like their mom. ;)

Congratulations on finding a place to live. I'm that is a hug weight off your shoulders:goodvibes

Yes it is! :goodvibes

Yay on a new place to live! I hope the high test scores aren't due to high amounts of homework, or other similar insanity! High parent reviews are a good sign. :banana:

Thanks Irene :)

Congratulations :cool1: on your new home. I have moved once and couldn't believe how much stuff we collected. Good luck with the move just thinking about it freaks me out.

I have moved 13 times in my adult life. Thankfully, many of those have been with the military and they hire packers/movers so I don't have to do much of the work (except for unpacking). :thumbsup2

Carissa!!! I have no idea how I've missed your TR's!! :confused3 Only on about the 3rd segment and it is AWESOME! Can't wait to read more :goodvibes

:welcome: Glad to have you here!

Did not know about this....please do tell!!! :flower3:

I received an email from Disney about 10 days before our trip and I was able to check in online. It was pretty simple. And then when you get to the resort - they have everything ready for you.

carissanboys

04-21-2009, 07:03 AM

I hope everyone had a great weekend! :cool1:

My friend heads home this morning so life will get back to normal soon (as normal as it can be when you're preparing to move in less than two months!). I'm hoping to get an update posted today, but I have to get some groceries and I'm volunteering in Sully's class this afternoon. If I don't get to one today, it'll definitely be tomorrow. :thumbsup2

jmskinner

04-21-2009, 08:53 AM

wvdislover

04-21-2009, 09:09 AM

Glad you found a place to live...it looks really nice. And you'll be close to the beach! How cool is that!

There's a slim possibility that we may have to move out-of-state later this year :sad2: At this point, I don't really want to...we've been in WV since 1992, and in our house since 1993. We have our routines down, and some really good friends we'd have to leave. I'm really having to leave it in God's hands, though, and try not to worry about it. Maybe He has big plans for us elsewhere :confused3 I'm glad you are so excited about your move (being in the military, I guess you expect it more...ours is really unexpected, but that doesn't always make it easier, I guess). I'm sure it will go really well, and YOU'LL BE CLOSE TO THE BEACH!!! :cool1:

carissanboys

04-21-2009, 11:00 AM

Sully and I finished up riding RnRC and I called Chuck on my cell phone to find out where he was. They had done Star Tours and tried to watch the Jedi Academy, but they kept cancelling due to the rain. We had a little time before our ADR at Sci Fi so we decided to meet up at The Magic of Disney Animation.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4423.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4424.jpg

We have never seen Playhouse Disney Live and probably never will at this point. The boys just weren't interested.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4425.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4426.jpg

We thought the "movie" was cute. When we got through with that - Sorcerer Mickey was out! We didn't want to miss him so we got in line - which was very short.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4427.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4428.jpg

You can see how wet the bottom of my pants were in the next one. Gotta love the rain and long pants! ;)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4429.jpg

And Photopass:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/12208520003-1.jpg

Then it was over to see Bolt! :cool1: Connor had no interest. And there was no photographer - well, except for me!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4430.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4431.jpg

Unfortunately, by the time we finished visiting with the characters, it was time to head over for our ADR at Sci Fi. We never got a chance to do the drawing lesson (still don't even know where it is exactly or how that works). Next time!

We arrived at the Sci Fi Drive In Theater and checked in. We sat for about a minute before they called my name and off we went.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4432.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4434.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4433.jpg

We really enjoyed our meal here once again. It wasn't as cold inside as I remember it being last time. It's just so relaxing with how quiet it is. :goodvibes I laughed so hard when they showed The Amazing Collosal Man. That was definitely the funniest - even though it seemed like I was the only one in the restaurant laughing. :rolleyes1

Chuck and I both got a shake since they are one of your choices for a beverage on the DDP. :thumbsup2

I had the burger again.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4435.jpg

Chuck had the reuben and said it was very good.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4436.jpg

I even somehow managed to save room for dessert. :woohoo:

I had the peanut butter chocolate cake, which was just okay. The outside of the cake was too hard for my liking.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4438.jpg

I don't remember what Chuck had and didn't get a picture anyway. Maybe Chuck will remember??

Up Next - Goodness Gracious Great Balls of Fire! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31487316&postcount=606)

eandesmom

04-21-2009, 11:15 AM

Congrats on finding your new home! Very exciting!

torsie24

04-21-2009, 11:21 AM

The meal looks yummy! I always laugh when I see Bolt in peoples photos - he just looks really funny to me!

Your new house is beautiful!! :teeth:

carissanboys

04-21-2009, 11:25 AM

That's nice that you have a little privacy in the backyard. Our place in Md didn't and drove me crazy.

Saw your comment about the unpacking. I knew someone that got the movers to unpack, but I think that would be worse. At least when you do it yourself you can take your time and figure out where you want everything.

It's going to be nice that you can go door-to-door and not have to put your stuff in storage. I hate that!

I think you can require that the movers unpack, but we never have. We do have them put the bed together, etc.

Glad you found a place to live...it looks really nice. And you'll be close to the beach! How cool is that!

There's a slim possibility that we may have to move out-of-state later this year :sad2: At this point, I don't really want to...we've been in WV since 1992, and in our house since 1993. We have our routines down, and some really good friends we'd have to leave. I'm really having to leave it in God's hands, though, and try not to worry about it. Maybe He has big plans for us elsewhere :confused3 I'm glad you are so excited about your move (being in the military, I guess you expect it more...ours is really unexpected, but that doesn't always make it easier, I guess). I'm sure it will go really well, and YOU'LL BE CLOSE TO THE BEACH!!! :cool1:

Yes - having the ocean around me will be fabulous. :goodvibes I'm not a huge beach person per se, but I love being close to the ocean - being able to see it and smell it. :thumbsup2

I hope for your sake that you won't have to move. :hug: I have always loved moving and seeing new places. I thrive on change. However, I think I may finally be reaching the point where I'm ready to settle down somewhere. I'll just have to continue to take trips to keep my adventurous spirit happy. ;)

Congrats on finding your new home! Very exciting!

Thanks! Yes, it is. :)

The meal looks yummy! I always laugh when I see Bolt in peoples photos - he just looks really funny to me!

Your new house is beautiful!! :teeth:

Thanks Torsie :goodvibes This townhouse complex is a bit nicer than the ones I'm use to. It has crown molding, chair rails, plantation blinds, maple cabinets, black appliances, etc. Just wish it was a bit bigger and had more of a yard, but it'll work for us for now.

dismagiclover

04-21-2009, 11:35 AM

mousescrapper

04-21-2009, 11:50 AM

Nice pants....;)

Glad you guys had a good meal at Sci-Fi....I was impressed how cool and quiet it was in there too. This part for us is on Day 4) coming eventually.

We got to see SMM too and Bolt...Mae is the only one in our family who's actually seen the movie (a b-day party) and wondered why he was standing up.

Nice PP pic of you guys....where is MY CD?????

I love our pic's w/ MM too...but you'll have to wait a little while for mine.

Thanks for the update...it's icky cold and rainy for day 2 in a row and 3 of 4 kids our sick and we are trying to do the no tv for 1 week so the computer is my respite this week. Well yesterday I did play a Princess Jewerly game w/ Mae and Margaret before school.

momrek06

04-21-2009, 11:51 AM

:yay: Carissa, you do such an awesome job with your photographs!! Another great update!! :yay:

I have not seen BOLT at DL...I wonder if he is there. He is adorable. :dog:

I have to say, Car, that Sully is a clone of Chuck!!! They look exactly alike!!! ::yes::

I have never eaten at Sci Fi! :guilty: Your meal looks wonderful!! :goodvibes

Kimberly815

04-21-2009, 11:56 AM

I haven't been able to try out the Sci Fi yet, but boy does that burger look yummy!!

I love the picture with Sorcerer Mickey!

carissanboys

04-21-2009, 12:16 PM

jcc0621

04-21-2009, 12:46 PM

Chuck and I have a decision to make and I was wondering if I could hear some opinions from you all.

We have to start paying on our new townhouse May 22nd. The boys last day of school is June 10th. We can't start receiving our housing allowance until we move out of the base housing we're currently living in.

Would it be a huge issue if we just moved at the end of May and the boys missed the last two weeks of school?? I'm sure they wouldn't miss anything important in terms of education - I'm just not sure how the school would view that.

Thoughts??

DH is a teacher and he said that it all depends on your school district. Here he wouldn't see it being a problem, they would give any necessary exams and/or tests to them. Talk to the school ::yes:: Is it a school that has lots of kids from the base attending? I'm sure this has happened many times before if it is. Good Luck!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

We love Sci Fi. I also laugh at Collosal man too:rotfl2: The only reason it is not on our list for August is becasue DH and DS want to try 50['s PPrimte Time this year.

We haven't done the Animation Tour yet, it is also on out to do in August list.

LaurenMic

04-21-2009, 12:52 PM

The pics of your family and Sorcerer Mickey are great!! Too bad you missed the drawing lesson, we always miss that too and have to put it on the "next time" list:sad2: That burger looks awesome! Too bad the cake wasn't so great because that looks SO good too. We managed to book that one for June and I'm excited now after seeing your pics :thumbsup2

cjackearl

04-21-2009, 12:54 PM

Your pictures with Sorcerer Mickey are so neat! I really, really hope we see him in June.

We couldn't get an ADR at Sci Fi this trip:sad1:but thought it was great fun last trip. I was singing "Attack of the 50 Foot Woman" by the Tubes which the girls thought was funny. I do remember, however, that we would have been much more comfortable in winter parkas. Man, it was cold in there!

MRYPPNS

04-21-2009, 12:59 PM

I'd take the boys out of school early if it not going to effect them with starting at the new school in the fall with their grade level or testing. At the very least I would split the difference and leave a week early.

momrek06

04-21-2009, 01:12 PM

Chuck and I have a decision to make and I was wondering if I could hear some opinions from you all.

We have to start paying on our new townhouse May 22nd. The boys last day of school is June 10th. We can't start receiving our housing allowance until we move out of the base housing we're currently living in.

Would it be a huge issue if we just moved at the end of May and the boys missed the last two weeks of school?? I'm sure they wouldn't miss anything important in terms of education - I'm just not sure how the school would view that.

Thoughts??

Carissa, my DBro is military and this happened to them a few years ago. My DBro went onto his new location (MA) with the Army and DSIL and DNephew actually ended up staying in a hotel (in VA) for the remainder of Ryan's school year...I believe he had about 7 days of school left and he was in the 8th grade and had allot of finals. They got a really good military discount on some hotel like a "Sleep Inn"! Nothing overly expensive at all.

Do you think that would be an option for you? Chuck could go onto the new location in VA and you would follow as soon as the boys had their last and final day at school. DSIL only kept a suitcase of clothes. Everything else, entire household went on to MA.

wvdislover

04-21-2009, 01:47 PM

At their ages, how much could they possibly miss in the last 2 weeks of school? They don't seem to learn a lot of new stuff in those last 2 weeks at my DD7's school. Check with the schools in both cities and make sure they dont' have any requirements or rules that would affect that, though.

whogirl'smom

04-21-2009, 02:22 PM

Your new townhouse looks very nice; I know y'all are anxious to move in. I don't know what I'd do about school...When does the year end in Virginia Beach? If you are moving somewhere that school will be out soon, then shouldn't it be considered less days actually missed at the end of the year? Or could you go ahead and enroll them, even if they just went for a half day or something, and that way they would be on the roll for the school and be assigned next year's teachers with the other kids (instead of getting stuck wherever there's an opening as a "new" student). Maybe give you time to talk with school personnel, get their records to the school in May and address any concerns about what type of teacher each boy would do best with? Just thinking out loud...

ETA: Will they be in Va. Beach schools? They're not out till June 18, apparently, which would be 4 weeks on Virginia's schedule. I think I would just enroll them down there and move on the 22nd, that's just me. They would be able to meet some kids in their grades and start some friendships so fall wouldn't be so hard. It's a tough decision.

Lady Lallie

04-21-2009, 02:31 PM

I can't wait to meet Bolt. I really, really hope that he is still there at the end of the May. :thumbsup2

mnkyboy24

04-21-2009, 02:37 PM

I think I had cheesecake. It was yummy, but not as memorable as the Rueben Sandwich or the shake...both of which were "the bomb"!

Sully and I finished up riding RnRC and I called Chuck on my cell phone to find out where he was. They had done Star Tours and tried to watch the Jedi Academy, but they kept cancelling due to the rain. We had a little time before our ADR at Sci Fi so we decided to meet up at The Magic of Disney Animation.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4423.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4424.jpg

We have never seen Playhouse Disney Live and probably never will at this point. The boys just weren't interested.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4425.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4426.jpg

We thought the "movie" was cute. When we got through with that - Sorcerer Mickey was out! We didn't want to miss him so we got in line - which was very short.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4427.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4428.jpg

You can see how wet the bottom of my pants were in the next one. Gotta love the rain and long pants! ;)

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4429.jpg

And Photopass:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/12208520003-1.jpg

Then it was over to see Bolt! :cool1: Connor had no interest. And there was no photographer - well, except for me!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4430.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4431.jpg

Unfortunately, by the time we finished visiting with the characters, it was time to head over for our ADR at Sci Fi. We never got a chance to do the drawing lesson (still don't even know where it is exactly or how that works). Next time!

We arrived at the Sci Fi Drive In Theater and checked in. We sat for about a minute before they called my name and off we went.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4432.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4434.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4433.jpg

We really enjoyed our meal here once again. It wasn't as cold inside as I remember it being last time. It's just so relaxing with how quiet it is. :goodvibes I laughed so hard when they showed The Amazing Collosal Man. That was definitely the funniest - even though it seemed like I was the only one in the restaurant laughing. :rolleyes1

Chuck and I both got a shake since they are one of your choices for a beverage on the DDP. :thumbsup2

I had the burger again.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4435.jpg

Chuck had the reuben and said it was very good.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4436.jpg

I even somehow managed to save room for dessert. :woohoo:

I had the peanut butter chocolate cake, which was just okay. The outside of the cake was too hard for my liking.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4438.jpg

I don't remember what Chuck had and didn't get a picture anyway. Maybe Chuck will remember??

Up Next - Goodness Gracious Great Balls of Fire!

Phibbles

04-21-2009, 03:29 PM

I think it really depends upon their ages/grade level. If they are all 7th grade and below, I don't think most schools will care that they will miss the last few weeks. They will likely just give them the grades they earned up to that point and call it a day.

Higher grade levels will make it more difficult...

Like other said, check with your school.

BrooklynnsMommy

04-21-2009, 03:33 PM

I love the atmosphere of Sci-Fi. Bolt will be on our must meet list this summer. Brooklynn got the movie for Easter and really liked it so she is excited to meet the characters. I also hope to get our pic with Sorcerer Mickey the two times we have seen him back there the line was too long or we had somewhere we had to be.

winkers

04-21-2009, 06:41 PM

I have to admit, I'm kinda glad my kids have been too old for play house disney when we've gone. I know, bad mommy.

carissanboys

04-21-2009, 07:44 PM

I love the Sci Fi too. It is just so quiet and the kids sit on a different row and are entertained by the movies. It's almost like my DH and I are alone:lovestruc I'm glad to hear you liked it just as much the 2nd time around because we're going there again in June too!
It looks like you found a great house down in VA beach. Congrats:goodvibes

Yup - the kids are so into watching the screen and that's probably why I enjoy it so much. :rolleyes1

Nice pants....;)

Glad you guys had a good meal at Sci-Fi....I was impressed how cool and quiet it was in there too. This part for us is on Day 4) coming eventually.

We got to see SMM too and Bolt...Mae is the only one in our family who's actually seen the movie (a b-day party) and wondered why he was standing up.

Nice PP pic of you guys....where is MY CD?????

I love our pic's w/ MM too...but you'll have to wait a little while for mine.

Thanks for the update...it's icky cold and rainy for day 2 in a row and 3 of 4 kids our sick and we are trying to do the no tv for 1 week so the computer is my respite this week. Well yesterday I did play a Princess Jewerly game w/ Mae and Margaret before school.

Bolt was a cute movie. I didn't order the CD - just paid to download the ones I liked (I think we only had a total of 36 pictures for the whole trip on photopass - so, so sad. :sad2: ).

:yay: Carissa, you do such an awesome job with your photographs!! Another great update!! :yay:

I have not seen BOLT at DL...I wonder if he is there. He is adorable. :dog:

I have to say, Car, that Sully is a clone of Chuck!!! They look exactly alike!!! ::yes::

I have never eaten at Sci Fi! :guilty: Your meal looks wonderful!! :goodvibes

Thanks Karen :goodvibes

I haven't been able to try out the Sci Fi yet, but boy does that burger look yummy!!

I love the picture with Sorcerer Mickey!

So many people talk about the food not being good at Sci Fi. The key is sticking with the burgers, fries, and shakes. :thumbsup2

DH is a teacher and he said that it all depends on your school district. Here he wouldn't see it being a problem, they would give any necessary exams and/or tests to them. Talk to the school ::yes:: Is it a school that has lots of kids from the base attending? I'm sure this has happened many times before if it is. Good Luck!

Thanks! Yes, their current school is here on a military base and I'm sure this comes up a lot. I talked to Sully's teacher today and she's going to ask around for me (this is her first year at this school).

The pics of your family and Sorcerer Mickey are great!! Too bad you missed the drawing lesson, we always miss that too and have to put it on the "next time" list:sad2: That burger looks awesome! Too bad the cake wasn't so great because that looks SO good too. We managed to book that one for June and I'm excited now after seeing your pics :thumbsup2

I know - I love chocolate and peanut butter so I was a bit disappointed.

Your pictures with Sorcerer Mickey are so neat! I really, really hope we see him in June.

We couldn't get an ADR at Sci Fi this trip:sad1:but thought it was great fun last trip. I was singing "Attack of the 50 Foot Woman" by the Tubes which the girls thought was funny. I do remember, however, that we would have been much more comfortable in winter parkas. Man, it was cold in there!

I was so glad it wasn't as cold this time since my clothes were a bit damp from the rain.

I'd take the boys out of school early if it not going to effect them with starting at the new school in the fall with their grade level or testing. At the very least I would split the difference and leave a week early.

Sully's teacher said the only issue is making sure their current school will give them a report card that says they're promoted. I'm waiting to hear back from her.

Carissa, my DBro is military and this happened to them a few years ago. My DBro went onto his new location (MA) with the Army and DSIL and DNephew actually ended up staying in a hotel (in VA) for the remainder of Ryan's school year...I believe he had about 7 days of school left and he was in the 8th grade and had allot of finals. They got a really good military discount on some hotel like a "Sleep Inn"! Nothing overly expensive at all.

Do you think that would be an option for you? Chuck could go onto the new location in VA and you would follow as soon as the boys had their last and final day at school. DSIL only kept a suitcase of clothes. Everything else, entire household went on to MA.

That is something that I've thought about and it is a possibility. But, it would still get a bit pricey. We could probably stay here on base at the Army Lodge. We did that before moving to Australia.

At their ages, how much could they possibly miss in the last 2 weeks of school? They don't seem to learn a lot of new stuff in those last 2 weeks at my DD7's school. Check with the schools in both cities and make sure they dont' have any requirements or rules that would affect that, though.

That's my feeling too. Sully's teacher said they're already learning 4th grade stuff in math class (he's in third) so it's all stuff they'll be retaught next year.

Your new townhouse looks very nice; I know y'all are anxious to move in. I don't know what I'd do about school...When does the year end in Virginia Beach? If you are moving somewhere that school will be out soon, then shouldn't it be considered less days actually missed at the end of the year? Or could you go ahead and enroll them, even if they just went for a half day or something, and that way they would be on the roll for the school and be assigned next year's teachers with the other kids (instead of getting stuck wherever there's an opening as a "new" student). Maybe give you time to talk with school personnel, get their records to the school in May and address any concerns about what type of teacher each boy would do best with? Just thinking out loud...

ETA: Will they be in Va. Beach schools? They're not out till June 18, apparently, which would be 4 weeks on Virginia's schedule. I think I would just enroll them down there and move on the 22nd, that's just me. They would be able to meet some kids in their grades and start some friendships so fall wouldn't be so hard. It's a tough decision.

That's an interesting idea. I'll have to talk to Chuck about it and do some looking into it. And yes - they'd be in VA Beach schools. Thanks!

I can't wait to meet Bolt. I really, really hope that he is still there at the end of the May. :thumbsup2

I hope he is too for you! Another character was there with him at first, but left before we got over there. Can't remember who.

I think it really depends upon their ages/grade level. If they are all 7th grade and below, I don't think most schools will care that they will miss the last few weeks. They will likely just give them the grades they earned up to that point and call it a day.

Higher grade levels will make it more difficult...

Like other said, check with your school.

They're just in 2nd and 3rd grade so I definitely don't think it would be a big issue. :thumbsup2

I love the atmosphere of Sci-Fi. Bolt will be on our must meet list this summer. Brooklynn got the movie for Easter and really liked it so she is excited to meet the characters. I also hope to get our pic with Sorcerer Mickey the two times we have seen him back there the line was too long or we had somewhere we had to be.

I was so excited to see him and to see that the line wasn't long! I hope Brooklynn gets to meet Bolt. :goodvibes

I have to admit, I'm kinda glad my kids have been too old for play house disney when we've gone. I know, bad mommy.

Not a bad mommy at all. ;)

liznboys

04-21-2009, 08:02 PM

Love all the trip updates!

Congrats on the new house, that was quick and easy huh?! :thumbsup2 I'm so excited for you and the move!

Charleston Princess

04-21-2009, 08:22 PM

Oh, I like the new Photopass artwork! The pictures with Mickey turned out very cute!

How we love Sci-Fi! I have never laughed so hard through a meal -- even during the second and third loops of the trailers!

Happydog

04-21-2009, 09:00 PM

Sounds like despite the rain you had a fun filled day at DHS! I'd follow the school's lead on the time out of school -- especially if the school is used to kids leaving early. They must have experience with this. I have still not been to Sci Fi, if we miss out this time, I hope to score an ADR for Dec...

A good burger is hard to beat! :thumbsup2

eandesmom

04-22-2009, 03:57 AM

You've gotten great advice so far on the school question. I would go ahead and call the VA beach school and see what they say, combine it with the info from Sully's teachter and you should have some clear direction.

Even without it, in 2nd/3rd....they will be fine, of that I'm quite sure unless there is some huge issue with "promotion". And if there was, you would already know it, and it sounds like things are fine.

jonestavern

04-22-2009, 07:30 AM

SOTB is a trashy-town all year round. We stopped there in August (twice) and even ate lunch there. What a mistake, but unfortunately it is a must stop for me. Too many memories of childhood trips to Disney to not stop and reminisce a little.
...[/IMG]
Thank you. Yep, I don't suggest stopping there for food. We were desperate and foolish with an injured passenger in tow.
: Phibbs! :eek:
You risked a meal at Pedro's????
Now that would be food porn! :scared1:
Who do you think you are, Duncan McLeod???
You traumatized your entire family??? :scared:
Come to Mama! There, there!

My Pedro is in front of the bathrooms. Yours is in front of the bad restaurant. The bathroom is located behind that building, if I recall correctly.

No coincidence there, I'm thinkin'!

Wow, lived 20+ years in New England and totally MISSED Cracker Barrel!!! :confused:

It was a Southern thing until, help me here, the late '80's?...

And I have never been to SOTB either....I am guessing some love it and some do not!!! Those PEDRO'S are hysterical...if I saw one of those on the side of the road...yup, I would be so sucked into stopping there!! :laughing:

Yep, the siren song of tawdry kitsch & the carny-style Mexican wares//pecan logs/fire works that lures us all in.
Stopping off at Pedro's is kinda like that old boyfriend we all had that we did not, under any circumstances!, want our friends to see us with. :rotfl:

Sorry...:worship:

Keith Bad...:sad1:

Oh yeah!!!

...

I LOVE Mike Rowe!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :love:

I knew I liked you! He's my TV boyfriend, at least that's what dh says.:lmao:

I'm curious though - how does he have time to visit you in your dreams?? He's pretty tired when he leaves mine. :rolleyes1

Hey, I have been watching Mikey since he was the late night beefcake on QVC!
His voice is sooooo......sooooooo.......:love:

Just tuning in. My DH and I stayed at PO and loved it we went down for our 20th anniversary with out the kids which they were not happy about. But we all need some alone time with the kids.

POFQ was DH's & my 1st trip w/o the offspring, too.
We had Building 2, 2nd floor, facing the fountain. It was so romantic!:love:
We fell in love with POFQ right then & there!:cloud9:

We may have a problem.........:scared:

I was coming home from work and turned the corner to the front door and found this

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/Goofster57/Stitch/IMG_4454.jpg

Upon closer examination it was a package that was sent to me by Carissa

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/Goofster57/Stitch/IMG_4455.jpg

As you can see it appears that the contents has made a run for it...:scared1:

I tried to contact the local Fish and Game department to let them know that a Possibly Very Dangerous Animal was lose on the streets of Anaheim, but thanks to Arnold's Cutbacks all I got was a answer machine.

Stay tuned for further developments…….

Maybe Stitch is heading for the wedding reception site! :eek:

By the way - you might want to keep a lookout for this one - her name is Angel and I was informed by a CM at MK that she was Stitch's girlfriend. I had no idea since I've never seen the third Stitch movie. :rolleyes1

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/StitchAngel.gif

Ewww, way too much licking this early in the morning!!! :scared:

Car lovin' the picks & all the updates :banana:
Sorry the time at RR was lacking. I love the food porn & Chuck's description of the desserts--well I think we should hear more food prose from the Dancin' Machine :thumbsup2
And hats off to you for sucking it up & daring the RNR! You are one brave, lovin' Mom! :wizard:

Jean

monkeybug

04-22-2009, 09:28 AM

Chuck and I have a decision to make and I was wondering if I could hear some opinions from you all.

We have to start paying on our new townhouse May 22nd. The boys last day of school is June 10th. We can't start receiving our housing allowance until we move out of the base housing we're currently living in.

Would it be a huge issue if we just moved at the end of May and the boys missed the last two weeks of school?? I'm sure they wouldn't miss anything important in terms of education - I'm just not sure how the school would view that.

Thoughts??
I am loving your report!! You are very brave to go on that roller coaster! Yikes!
I home schooled my daughter for a month when we moved here, because I didn't want her to start at a school for a month and then have to uproot her and make her start at a new school all over.
I don't think educationally missing two weeks would matter at all! You might want to check about the schools policy on absence though (at my daughters school they only "allow" 5 days of unexcused absence), and the county we moved from had a similar policy, so she had to be registered somewhere that first month. You might legally have to "home school" for those last two weeks. Even though technically we "home schooled" my daughter that first month, we didn't really do much more than get ready for our move. She missed a month and did just fine!
We have good friends stationed near where you are moving! We love going to the little aquarium when we visit, and we are camping in one of the military cabins in Va. Beach this august!!

jmskinner

04-22-2009, 09:56 AM

I agree with Monkeybug, check with the school system, also find out about when the other school system ends.

carissanboys

04-22-2009, 10:05 AM

Love all the trip updates!

Congrats on the new house, that was quick and easy huh?! :thumbsup2 I'm so excited for you and the move!

Thanks - now it's all the fun, stressful stuff like trying to set everything up! ;)

Oh, I like the new Photopass artwork! The pictures with Mickey turned out very cute!

How we love Sci-Fi! I have never laughed so hard through a meal -- even during the second and third loops of the trailers!

We only looped through once and around the time it got back to the beginning we were about to leave.

Sounds like despite the rain you had a fun filled day at DHS! I'd follow the school's lead on the time out of school -- especially if the school is used to kids leaving early. They must have experience with this. I have still not been to Sci Fi, if we miss out this time, I hope to score an ADR for Dec...

A good burger is hard to beat! :thumbsup2

I hope you're able to try it out. I just love the atmosphere. :thumbsup2

You've gotten great advice so far on the school question. I would go ahead and call the VA beach school and see what they say, combine it with the info from Sully's teachter and you should have some clear direction.

Even without it, in 2nd/3rd....they will be fine, of that I'm quite sure unless there is some huge issue with "promotion". And if there was, you would already know it, and it sounds like things are fine.

I just emailed the principal of the new school to ask her opinion. I figured she might be the best one to ask. At this point I'm planning on moving down at the end of May. It's just going to be a matter of what we do exactly once we're there that I haven't decided.

Hey, I have been watching Mikey since he was the late night beefcake on QVC!
His voice is sooooo......sooooooo.......:love:

I've seen some youtube videos of him from his QVC days. ;)

Maybe Stitch is heading for the wedding reception site! :eek:

That would be interesting, wouldn't it? :rolleyes1

Car lovin' the picks & all the updates :banana:
Sorry the time at RR was lacking. I love the food porn & Chuck's description of the desserts--well I think we should hear more food prose from the Dancin' Machine :thumbsup2
And hats off to you for sucking it up & daring the RNR! You are one brave, lovin' Mom! :wizard:

Thanks Jean! :goodvibes

I am loving your report!! You are very brave to go on that roller coaster! Yikes!
I home schooled my daughter for a month when we moved here, because I didn't want her to start at a school for a month and then have to uproot her and make her start at a new school all over.
I don't think educationally missing two weeks would matter at all! You might want to check about the schools policy on absence though (at my daughters school they only "allow" 5 days of unexcused absence), and the county we moved from had a similar policy, so she had to be registered somewhere that first month. You might legally have to "home school" for those last two weeks. Even though technically we "home schooled" my daughter that first month, we didn't really do much more than get ready for our move. She missed a month and did just fine!
We have good friends stationed near where you are moving! We love going to the little aquarium when we visit, and we are camping in one of the military cabins in Va. Beach this august!!

Thanks for the advice. Homeschooling is definitely an option. My only issue with that is how much of a hassle will be involved for just three weeks? We homeschooled for Sully's first two years of school, but only one of those was here in the states and we did it for the entire year. From what I remember, VA is pretty strict about homeschooling and what is required. But, if it's only for 3 weeks - are they going to require an evaluation?? That is something I'm looking into.

I agree with Monkeybug, check with the school system, also find out about when the other school system ends.

The new school ends June 18th, although it looks like that final week is all half days. Waiting to hear back from their principal. :thumbsup2

monkeybug

04-22-2009, 10:18 AM

mrsksomeday

04-22-2009, 10:43 AM

Carissa, I absoutely love the family pictures with Sorcerer Mickey, precious memories!! :goodvibes

We have never tried Sci Fi, Bill says if we sit down in a TS restaurant he wants something besides a burger. He love his TS meals at Disney. ADR's are one of the things he really gets involved in for our trips. :rotfl:

jmskinner

04-22-2009, 10:52 AM

Somehow I completely missed your last update. Love the atmosphere at Sci-Fi but have never been happy with the food.

I want my pic with Sorcerer Mickey!

And what is with half days for a week at school???? That just seems like a waste.

Goofy442

04-22-2009, 10:57 AM

We have never eaten at Sci Fi Drive the food looks good. Your pictures are great. We seem to take alot of pictures :scared1: when we go and my DH always says didn't you take a picture of that last time we were here. I always say and your point is what:rotfl: .

MagicShell

04-22-2009, 12:24 PM

I like your pictures of Sorcerer Mickey. I was so excited to meet him and of course my camera messed up at that time. Well, I assume I messed it up but I couldn't figure out how to fix it until it was too late. We didn't get to draw either, but I would have liked to. I also thought the movie was cute, and my 6 year old son was laughing out loud at it so I guess he liked it too.

AlohaAnnie

04-22-2009, 01:05 PM

Carissa,

Hi, enjoying your TR - I had to catch up because we are also moving, not to another street but just a block over here. It is really involved.

We really enjoyed TSM, it was a lot of fun. We rode it 3 times last June, it was entertaining plus I had the joy of actually beating my DH at TSM, it was awesome.

I like the fan idea, I always have trouble sleeping at hotels. It drives me crazy and then, I am exhaused by the time we get home. I also turn into a bear :scared1: if I am hungry or tired. Not good for the family ;)

I hope the school thing works out. I was a military brat, Army & Marines, My Dad & StepFather. I remember moving around alot, we lived in Germany, Maryland, Illinois, Indiana, and California. It was fun. My Stepfather went to Japan for a year while we lived on base at Camp Pendleton in California. Those are great memories of the beach and tanks. I don't remember the moving to each place. :confused3

Hope to hear more soon.

Tina

mnkyboy24

04-22-2009, 03:20 PM

I had the cheesecake..I believe. It was yummy but not that memorable. The best things that Sci-Fi has going for it besides the entertainment value are the burgers, the Rueben sandwich (which is just plain awesome), and the shakes.

I don't remember what Chuck had and didn't get a picture anyway. Maybe Chuck will remember??

TigerTown

04-22-2009, 04:13 PM

Hi Carissa,

I found your TR's while waiting for our video game patch to download and I'm now caught up:thumbsup2 So far so good...can't wait to hear more.

Kyle

irene_dsc

04-22-2009, 04:34 PM

All caught up!

Sounds like Sci-Fi was fun! If the kids decide they like burgers or reubens, that could be a good lunch stop for us! Or maybe just a snack - they both like fries and shakes, lol. I think you are right about needing to order the right thing and nothing else - I know a lot of restaurants like that.

I hope you figure out the VA school thing without too much hassle.

carissanboys

04-22-2009, 05:19 PM

I can only speak for MD policy, but here it was really easy. The county sent me something to sign (It was just one paper as I recall) and I had to agree to two evaluations during the year (in Dec. and May I believe) and to keep a binder with examples of her work. She was in a school before the first scheduled eval. so that was not an issue. I called the county's homeschool rep. and explained the situation. He was very helpful! He said he usually likes to meet with the parent before transitioning a child back into school to go over some of the stuff that they have been doing at home, but he said that because it was for such a short amount of time I didn't need to worry about it, and to just enroll her when I got there!
I imagine that if you were to call the home school rep. in the current county your children attend in and explain the situation, they could probably help you arrange something so that you would be "legal", but you probably wouldn't have to worry about an eval. that close to the end of the year.

I heard back from the liaison person for VA Beach and she said I would just have to do the letter of intent since we'd be enrolling them in the summer. :thumbsup2

Carissa, I absoutely love the family pictures with Sorcerer Mickey, precious memories!! :goodvibes

We have never tried Sci Fi, Bill says if we sit down in a TS restaurant he wants something besides a burger. He love his TS meals at Disney. ADR's are one of the things he really gets involved in for our trips. :rotfl:

That's awesome that he gets so involved. But, Sci Fi is so cool!!

Somehow I completely missed your last update. Love the atmosphere at Sci-Fi but have never been happy with the food.

I want my pic with Sorcerer Mickey!

And what is with half days for a week at school???? That just seems like a waste.

I know. It's almost like they have to go for those days to meet the requirement, but they're not really doing anything so they make it a half day.

We have never eaten at Sci Fi Drive the food looks good. Your pictures are great. We seem to take alot of pictures :scared1: when we go and my DH always says didn't you take a picture of that last time we were here. I always say and your point is what:rotfl: .

:rotfl:

I like your pictures of Sorcerer Mickey. I was so excited to meet him and of course my camera messed up at that time. Well, I assume I messed it up but I couldn't figure out how to fix it until it was too late. We didn't get to draw either, but I would have liked to. I also thought the movie was cute, and my 6 year old son was laughing out loud at it so I guess he liked it too.

That stinks about your camera. A CM offered to take pictures with our camera and then the Photopass guy took some too.

I also turn into a bear :scared1: if I am hungry or tired. Not good for the family ;)

I had the cheesecake..I believe. It was yummy but not that memorable. The best things that Sci-Fi has going for it besides the entertainment value are the burgers, the Rueben sandwich (which is just plain awesome), and the shakes.

Oh yeah. The cheesecake. Thanks for chiming in. :love:

Hi Carissa,

I found your TR's while waiting for our video game patch to download and I'm now caught up:thumbsup2 So far so good...can't wait to hear more.

Kyle

:welcome: Kyle! Your reply cracked me up. Your game patch wouldn't be for WOW, would it? :rolleyes1 Glad I could help you pass the time. ;)

All caught up!

Sounds like Sci-Fi was fun! If the kids decide they like burgers or reubens, that could be a good lunch stop for us! Or maybe just a snack - they both like fries and shakes, lol. I think you are right about needing to order the right thing and nothing else - I know a lot of restaurants like that.

I hope you figure out the VA school thing without too much hassle.

Thanks Irene - I'm sure it'll all work out. I just tend to stress about stuff like this.

mousescrapper

04-22-2009, 06:51 PM

Bolt was a cute movie. I didn't order the CD - just paid to download the ones I liked (I think we only had a total of 36 pictures for the whole trip on photopass - so, so sad. :sad2: ).

I got the CD yesterday:yay: now I can get moving on the TR just need DH to dowload the pic off the CD into Picasa (my photo organizer) for me and we're in business

I'm bummed though I thought my eyes were closed in one picture but couldn't really tell online and sure enough it is....and I never close my eyes in pictures :headache:

MeMom

04-22-2009, 06:54 PM

Love the family pictures with Sorceror Mickey. He's on the list for Brooklynn and Bella to meet this summer.

The Sci-Fi food is looking good!
I have had a Reuben and a burger there (different visits, obviously) and they were both fine. For sides, the first time I got the melon mix, which I didn't like, and the second time I went with fries. I haven't gotten a shake there yet. We did get some Sci-Fi cups and glow cubes.

I don't have any advice on the schooling. If they're going to have a month of school year left when they get there, I agree that it could be good to go ahead and get them started and let them meet new friends. That might help them out this summer and have them ready to go without apprehension for the next school year. The boys may be opposed to that, though, and not want to add more time in school when they've already done their time, or you may rather have them at the house helping you get settled in. I'll be interested to see what you end up doing and then hearing your thoughts about it in retrospect.

TigerTown

04-22-2009, 08:19 PM

:welcome: Kyle! Your reply cracked me up. Your game patch wouldn't be for WOW, would it? :rolleyes1 Glad I could help you pass the time. ;)

You caught me ;) and the fact that you call it WoW tells me you or someone you know is addicted as well :lmao: We have three accounts in my family so patch day usually takes a while.

I've been playing for three years but the funny thing is that my wife now plays more than I do. I usually only get in a couple nights of game time a week.

carissanboys

04-23-2009, 07:16 AM

I got the CD yesterday:yay: now I can get moving on the TR just need DH to dowload the pic off the CD into Picasa (my photo organizer) for me and we're in business

I'm bummed though I thought my eyes were closed in one picture but couldn't really tell online and sure enough it is....and I never close my eyes in pictures :headache:

Can't wait to see your pictures! :yay:

I don't have any advice on the schooling. If they're going to have a month of school year left when they get there, I agree that it could be good to go ahead and get them started and let them meet new friends. That might help them out this summer and have them ready to go without apprehension for the next school year. The boys may be opposed to that, though, and not want to add more time in school when they've already done their time, or you may rather have them at the house helping you get settled in. I'll be interested to see what you end up doing and then hearing your thoughts about it in retrospect.

It would actually be 14 days of school left when we got to VA Beach - with the last four being half days. I still haven't decided what we're going to do for sure.

You caught me ;) and the fact that you call it WoW tells me you or someone you know is addicted as well :lmao: We have three accounts in my family so patch day usually takes a while.

I've been playing for three years but the funny thing is that my wife now plays more than I do. I usually only get in a couple nights of game time a week.

We started playing a little more than three years ago, but neither of us plays anymore. I had an Orc Hunter who I got to level 63. Sometimes I miss playing, but I have so much other stuff to do anyway. My husband now plays Warhammer Online instead. It's funny how many wives play WoW too. ;)

dddisrunner

04-23-2009, 07:36 AM

TigerTown

04-23-2009, 09:53 AM

We started playing a little more than three years ago, but neither of us plays anymore. I had an Orc Hunter who I got to level 63. Sometimes I miss playing, but I have so much other stuff to do anyway. My husband now plays Warhammer Online instead. It's funny how many wives play WoW too. ;)

I have a level 80 Human Mage (http://www.wowarmory.com/character-sheet.xml?r=Staghelm&n=Zarlon) and a few other level 60 and 70 toons. We play with other couples that have been friends of mine since High School. I think that's the only thing that is keeping me in the game now. I'm really getting burned out and don't have the time or energy to dedicate to it.

I thought about trying Warhammer but I'm not really into PvP so I'm not sure if I would enjoy it that much.

Anyway...enough of the computer geek talk. On with the Disney geek talk:laughing:

My wife and I are actually thinking about a trip this summer. I was glad to see that you enjoyed your stay at Windsor Hills. I think we might try to find a condo there for the week. We have never stayed off property so that would be a first for us.

carissanboys

04-23-2009, 11:13 AM

Geez! I thought I already replied, but I guess not:sad2: Anyway...GREAT update Carissa! We are SO hoping to see Sorcerer Mickey this trip! We also have an ADR for Sci Fi. I am so glad to hear that you enjoyed it! Love all the pictures and I cannot believe how much rain there was and how wet your pants were!:eek:

That's okay Diane. Sometimes I'll read an update, but not have time to reply and then I forget to go back. ;)

My pants were mainly wet from walking through puddles - that's the problem with that cut of pant. We had a far rainier day coming up. :rolleyes1

I have a level 80 Human Mage (http://www.wowarmory.com/character-sheet.xml?r=Staghelm&n=Zarlon) and a few other level 60 and 70 toons. We play with other couples that have been friends of mine since High School. I think that's the only thing that is keeping me in the game now. I'm really getting burned out and don't have the time or energy to dedicate to it.

I thought about trying Warhammer but I'm not really into PvP so I'm not sure if I would enjoy it that much.

Anyway...enough of the computer geek talk. On with the Disney geek talk:laughing:

My wife and I are actually thinking about a trip this summer. I was glad to see that you enjoyed your stay at Windsor Hills. I think we might try to find a condo there for the week. We have never stayed off property so that would be a first for us.

Are you strictly an Alliance player? We had characters on both sides, but we played more on the Horde side just because we had more friends over there. I wasn't into PvP either. Never did any raids - too much pressure! ;)

Yes - we loved Windsor Hills! It really is pretty convenient to get to the parks from there and having more space was awesome. :thumbsup2

cjackearl

04-23-2009, 11:59 AM

carissanboys

04-23-2009, 12:11 PM

Can I go nowhere without hearing talk of WoW?:sad2: My husband plays a lot and I've gotten used to "Can I get on at 10 tonight? We want to raid blahbety blah." or "I just need to make these glyphs(?) and then I'll get off." Sigh. I thought I could escape into my dis-ing.;)

We each have our own computer so that isn't an issue for us. And Chuck doesn't play much anymore. He'll play for a short time and then come downstairs and paint his models while we watch TV together.

Have you tried playing? That's kind of why I started initially - so that we'd have something to do together. And then I just started to enjoy it.

carissanboys

04-23-2009, 01:52 PM

After our awesome lunch at Sci Fi, it was time to head back over to Toy Story Mania to use our fastpasses. By the time we got over there, the wait time for the standby line was 100 minutes. :scared1: There is no way I would wait in line for ANY attraction for that long - no matter how fun it is. I believe the FP return time was 7:30 - 8:30 by then.

TSM was just as fun the second time around and this was my score this time:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4440.jpg

Gettin' better. :thumbsup2

We had decided on seeing Lights, Motors, Action! this time around since we'd skipped it the previous year in lieu of Indiana Jones. I think LMA is a better show than IJ. We got there pretty early so were able to snatch up some decent seats. :woohoo: I really was hoping to get some nice shots this time.

I have quite a few pictures from the show so I'm just going to post them with no commentary from me. :cool2:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4444.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4443.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4442.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4445.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4446.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4447.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4454.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4460.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4463.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4466.jpg

The stunt person on fire turned out to be a woman. :thumbsup2

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4468.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4469.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4470.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4471.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4472.jpg

During our first trip to Disney, we ended up sitting on the side of the stadium for LMA so I was really hoping to get some better shots – right from the center. I love the ball of fire in the last one.

After the show, we took our time getting out and made our way over to the Honey I Shrunk the Kids Playset. As expected, it turned out to be VERY busy and crowded in there so we didn’t stay long. I didn’t even take any pictures – including one of me sitting on an ant that I had promised a certain someone. :rolleyes1

The last thing on my MUST DO list was to see Beauty and the Beast. We had a little time to kill before the next show so we decided to do The Great Movie Ride. Owen had his face in my lap most of the time throughout the ride. He’s been on it before, but I guess that’s part of why he was so scared – he knew what was coming. Chuck and I decided that would probably be the last time we do that attraction. The fact that the CM riding with you has the same lines every time makes it a bit cheesy.

We headed over to Beauty and the Beast and called my parents while we waited for the show to begin. I don’t think Chuck or the boys were too excited about seeing this show, but in the end, we all loved it. I didn’t take any pictures because I haven’t really mastered the art of turning off the flash yet. :rolleyes1

After the show we decided it was time to leave the park. The weather had finally improved – the sun was out! As we drove out, we saw that the Music lot was completely empty. Is that normal? I think overall there were very low crowds that day thanks to the rain.

Up Next – Our First Towel…Creation? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31514584&postcount=650)

DisMomAmy

04-23-2009, 01:56 PM

Charleston Princess

04-23-2009, 02:00 PM

Did the boys like LMA? I really hope we make it there this year so I am looking forward to your responses to Amy. :goodvibes

carissanboys

04-23-2009, 02:03 PM

So you have to tell me what the deal is with LMA... are there fastpasses or not?? It looks like there are two shows scheduled each afternoon, unless things change a lot in the next week... Do you use a FP? Or do you just get there early? Any seating suggestions?

Are there FP for LMA?? :confused3 It seats a TON of people. The first time we just happened to notice everyone was heading in for the next show so we went. But, we sat on the side and didn't have as good a view. Personally, I say get there early and sit in the center section - not too far up.

carissanboys

04-23-2009, 02:05 PM

Did the boys like LMA? I really hope we make it there this year so I am looking forward to your responses to Amy. :goodvibes

The boys loved it. :thumbsup2 They had seen it before, but I don't think they really remembered it.

Lady Lallie

04-23-2009, 02:23 PM

DisneyJo

04-23-2009, 02:36 PM

Love the Sorcerer Mickey shots and I really loved the milkshakes at SciFi, yummy!

dddisrunner

04-23-2009, 02:38 PM

Great shots of LMA Carissa!:thumbsup2 I love that show too! We will be skipping it this year though, I can't imagine sitting in that stadium in the summer heat!:sad2: The boys LOVE the GMR I think it is just OK but we have been fortunate enough to sit up front each time we have been on so the drivers really interact with the boys! We WILL be seeing Beauty and the Beast this trip too, I am glad to hear that your boys ended up liking it!:thumbsup2

mousescrapper

04-23-2009, 02:45 PM

I was expectating a tale about a piano......;)

those are nice scenery shots there and rooftop view of the park....nice!

We have yet to see LMASS....I thought we'd do it this trip, but we ended up doing something completly different.

weren't you'd pleased when that sun came back out! It was nice to take the ponchos off!

LaurenMic

04-23-2009, 02:53 PM

Great update Carissa! Love the shots of LMA, I agree it's better than IJ. I hear you about GMR too, they need to redo it because its getting pretty sleepy. I used to love it but the same old thing every time has gotten so old and the CMs are never into it anymore! Glad to hear that the boys even loved Beauty and the Beast, I hope DF will feel the same way when I make him see it with me:laughing:

TigerTown

04-23-2009, 02:59 PM

I was so bummed that we didn't get to see LMA on our last trip. We had planned to do it but every time the show was running the family was tired and wanted to leave :confused3 I will definitely get to it on our next trip.

TigerTown

04-23-2009, 03:02 PM

Goofster57

04-23-2009, 03:40 PM

Jeez, I'm gone for six days and I have 12 pages to catch up on....you could have all waited ya know....

Carissa,
Great updates

Don't be embarrassed about your RNRC picture as you see everyone looks like that.

When you were in Sci-Fi were the cast members adding sound effects, like when the 50 foot man gets stabbed with the needle we always yell Ouch! and when he is going to trow it at the other guy we yell WATCH OUT!!!!....yes we are that annoying group of people.

Loved your Mini Trip report, glad you found a place so quickly. Bad news I checked my calendar and I am busy what ever day you are moving....Sorry

The Lights, Motor, Action is the best show at the Studios, I've seen it 4 or 5 times and it always ends the same way, the bad guys lose...

Keep the updates coming......

cjackearl

04-23-2009, 04:52 PM

We each have our own computer so that isn't an issue for us. And Chuck doesn't play much anymore. He'll play for a short time and then come downstairs and paint his models while we watch TV together.

Have you tried playing? That's kind of why I started initially - so that we'd have something to do together. And then I just started to enjoy it.

This really is true. ;) If my wife an daughter didn't play I wouldn't be on nearly as much as I am. We actually have a lot of fun playing together and the other people in our guild are couples as well so that makes it really nice.

That's so nice its a couple or family activity for you guys. It's just never held a ton of interest for me and now hubby's characters are all level 70+, and 2 are level 80, so at this point we wouldn't be playing together. Plus, we only have one computer with fast internet, so we have to take turns. If we both played WoW, I'd never get to dis!:scared1:;)

Anyway, Carissa love your pictures of LMA. We missed it last trip, but definitely want to give it a try this time around. How cool that the on fire stunt man was a woman.:thumbsup2 How many times do you think she's been told she's hot?:rotfl:

carissanboys

04-23-2009, 05:08 PM

You got some really great shots of LMA! :thumbsup2 I am not a big fan of it because I don't like the bleachers. I have an irrational fear of bleachers. I'm always afraid I'm going to fall and be dangling. BAH! :rotfl2:

They're not the most comfortable thing to sit on - that's for sure!

Love the Sorcerer Mickey shots and I really loved the milkshakes at SciFi, yummy!

I always get the oreo cookie milkshake - yumm! :thumbsup2

Great shots of LMA Carissa!:thumbsup2 I love that show too! We will be skipping it this year though, I can't imagine sitting in that stadium in the summer heat!:sad2: The boys LOVE the GMR I think it is just OK but we have been fortunate enough to sit up front each time we have been on so the drivers really interact with the boys! We WILL be seeing Beauty and the Beast this trip too, I am glad to hear that your boys ended up liking it!:thumbsup2

Afterwards Sully said he thought it would be "girly", but he really enjoyed it.

I was expectating a tale about a piano......;)

those are nice scenery shots there and rooftop view of the park....nice!

We have yet to see LMASS....I thought we'd do it this trip, but we ended up doing something completly different.

weren't you'd pleased when that sun came back out! It was nice to take the ponchos off!

I'll be interested to see what you did instead. So many teasers!! :rotfl:

Great update Carissa! Love the shots of LMA, I agree it's better than IJ. I hear you about GMR too, they need to redo it because its getting pretty sleepy. I used to love it but the same old thing every time has gotten so old and the CMs are never into it anymore! Glad to hear that the boys even loved Beauty and the Beast, I hope DF will feel the same way when I make him see it with me:laughing:

Chuck even enjoyed it. It was the same thing with Voyage of the Little Mermaid last year. My dad wasn't interested, but I made him go and he loved it. ;)

I was so bummed that we didn't get to see LMA on our last trip. We had planned to do it but every time the show was running the family was tired and wanted to leave :confused3 I will definitely get to it on our next trip.

I hope you get to see it! It's a lot of fun with some neat surprises.

Jeez, I'm gone for six days and I have 12 pages to catch up on....you could have all waited ya know....

We wanted to give you something to do when you returned to work - since you don't actually have any of that to keep you busy.

Don't be embarrassed about your RNRC picture as you see everyone looks like that.

Where's your picture then?? :confused3

When you were in Sci-Fi were the cast members adding sound effects, like when the 50 foot man gets stabbed with the needle we always yell Ouch! and when he is going to trow it at the other guy we yell WATCH OUT!!!!....yes we are that annoying group of people.

:rotfl: No - didn't hear anything. It was very quiet and like I said - I seemed to be the only one laughing.

Loved your Mini Trip report, glad you found a place so quickly. Bad news I checked my calendar and I am busy what ever day you are moving....Sorry

I'll need a note from your doctor or your mother please.

The Lights, Motor, Action is the best show at the Studios, I've seen it 4 or 5 times and it always ends the same way, the bad guys lose...

I think it was your pictures from LMA that made me want to get some good ones this time.

Anyway, Carissa love your pictures of LMA. We missed it last trip, but definitely want to give it a try this time around. How cool that the on fire stunt man was a woman.:thumbsup2 How many times do you think she's been told she's hot?:rotfl:

:rotfl:

irene_dsc

04-23-2009, 05:40 PM

Are there FP for LMA?? :confused3 It seats a TON of people. The first time we just happened to notice everyone was heading in for the next show so we went. But, we sat on the side and didn't have as good a view. Personally, I say get there early and sit in the center section - not too far up.

Ooh - I can answer this one! When we went, we saw the fastpass machines, but they weren't working. We asked a cast member, and were told that they almost never use them, and it never fills up - it can hold 2000 people, iirc! We did get there early and wait in line to get a good seat - that was the day we snacked and never had a real lunch. Even counter service was taking us so long, we were afraid to try it and make us miss the show.

And, if you have kids sensitive to noise, definitely bring earplugs! We did - and also gave a pair to the kid next to us who was holding his hands over his ears.

Happydog

04-23-2009, 05:42 PM

Great shots of LMA! My guys were captivated by it, too. That and the Indiana Jones show!

wvdislover

04-23-2009, 11:43 PM

Love the LMA shots! We went and saw it a couple of years ago. We liked it pretty well, but it was SO hot, DD7 (then DD6) spent the whole time complaining how hot she was and needed a drink that was cold (we only had lukewarm water), and DD11 (our Aspie child), got frustrated b/c her sister was complaining, so DH and I got irritated with them...a bad situation overall that ended in DD11 (then DD10) stomping on her Nintendo DS while we had to wait for forever for the bus to take us back to the hotel. Needless to say, the DS was out of commission after that. Maybe we can try again this year :confused3 It can't get any worse...can it? :rolleyes1

NuttyDisneyMom

04-24-2009, 02:21 AM

Chuck and I have a decision to make and I was wondering if I could hear some opinions from you all.

We have to start paying on our new townhouse May 22nd. The boys last day of school is June 10th. We can't start receiving our housing allowance until we move out of the base housing we're currently living in.

Would it be a huge issue if we just moved at the end of May and the boys missed the last two weeks of school?? I'm sure they wouldn't miss anything important in terms of education - I'm just not sure how the school would view that.

Thoughts??

Don't know if anyone answered this for you yet, but....school doesn't get out here untill June 19th. You could always just transfer them if you wanted to;) I live in VA Beach too and have been here 5 years. Transfer from the Navy, but DH retires this June:woohoo: We are staying though because my DD14 got into one of the fabulous high school academy programs they offer out here:thumbsup2 Your townhouse looks familiar and close by....looks like we might be neighbors! What street is it on, if you don't mind me asking? I wouldn't mind telling you about the schools and the area itself:)

jonestavern

04-24-2009, 02:53 AM

Great update Carrrrita! :woohoo:
LMA is one of my DHS faves. It's just another one of those great experiences I can't believe is included in the ticket price! :love:
Ditto Beauty & the Beast (Lion King Show is my very fave live show). funny Thing is I had to draaag the guys to see B&B and they ended up really liking it! :thumbsup2
Agree with those who said TGMR needs updating.

Gooster57 if you, Sorceress & fam get so rambunctious at SciFi: come sit right by us! :banana:

Keep it coming Car!

Jean

DisMomAmy

04-24-2009, 06:59 AM

Are there shaded areas for the LMA Stunt Show? The direct heat could be a problem for my crew too...

carissanboys

04-24-2009, 07:13 AM

Ooh - I can answer this one! When we went, we saw the fastpass machines, but they weren't working. We asked a cast member, and were told that they almost never use them, and it never fills up - it can hold 2000 people, iirc! We did get there early and wait in line to get a good seat - that was the day we snacked and never had a real lunch. Even counter service was taking us so long, we were afraid to try it and make us miss the show.

And, if you have kids sensitive to noise, definitely bring earplugs! We did - and also gave a pair to the kid next to us who was holding his hands over his ears.

That's what I figured about the FP. Thanks for confirming! :thumbsup2

Great shots of LMA! My guys were captivated by it, too. That and the Indiana Jones show!

I don't know too many boys (both big and little) who don't like to see cars and motorcycles racing fast and doing stunts. ;)

Love the LMA shots! We went and saw it a couple of years ago. We liked it pretty well, but it was SO hot, DD7 (then DD6) spent the whole time complaining how hot she was and needed a drink that was cold (we only had lukewarm water), and DD11 (our Aspie child), got frustrated b/c her sister was complaining, so DH and I got irritated with them...a bad situation overall that ended in DD11 (then DD10) stomping on her Nintendo DS while we had to wait for forever for the bus to take us back to the hotel. Needless to say, the DS was out of commission after that. Maybe we can try again this year :confused3 It can't get any worse...can it? :rolleyes1

I could totally see that happening to us. We can barely handle the heat in March - I can't imagine the summer! I hope if you try again you have a better experience. :hug:

Don't know if anyone answered this for you yet, but....school doesn't get out here untill June 19th. You could always just transfer them if you wanted to;) I live in VA Beach too and have been here 5 years. Transfer from the Navy, but DH retires this June:woohoo: We are staying though because my DD14 got into one of the fabulous high school academy programs they offer out here:thumbsup2 Your townhouse looks familiar and close by....looks like we might be neighbors! What street is it on, if you don't mind me asking? I wouldn't mind telling you about the schools and the area itself:)

:welcome: Thanks for the info! Our townhouse is in a complex - if that helps. My husband is due to retire in four years so I could possibly see us staying in the area unless they decide to move us for that final year.

Great update Carrrrita! :woohoo:
LMA is one of my DHS faves. It's just another one of those great experiences I can't believe is included in the ticket price! :love:
Ditto Beauty & the Beast (Lion King Show is my very fave live show). funny Thing is I had to draaag the guys to see B&B and they ended up really liking it! :thumbsup2
Agree with those who said TGMR needs updating.

Gooster57 if you, Sorceress & fam get so rambunctious at SciFi: come sit right by us! :banana:

Keep it coming Car!

Jean

Thanks Jean! I think my favorite show now is Finding Nemo. :thumbsup2

Are there shaded areas for the LMA Stunt Show? The direct heat could be a problem for my crew too...

I'm pretty sure the bleachers are covered. So, I'd say all of it is shaded.

pirate<3rocks

04-24-2009, 08:24 AM

:goodvibes Hi Car!

Of course I have been reading...... just have a little catching up to do ;)
Gud trippie :banana:
Have a great weekend eh! :hug:

ps.... pirate: Arghhhhh!! :angel: ;)

carissanboys

04-24-2009, 08:52 AM

:goodvibes Hi Car!

Of course I have been reading...... just have a little catching up to do ;)
Gud trippie :banana:
Have a great weekend eh! :hug:

ps.... pirate: Arghhhhh!! :angel: ;)

:welcome: Nat! Glad you're here. :hug:

carissanboys

04-24-2009, 09:14 AM

Please excuse this interruption to our normally broadcast TR.

I need some decorating help! We are going to be painting an accent wall in each room of our new house. I'm so tired of living without color on the walls! I've taken some pictures of what I have to work with and would love some input from you all on what colors we should pick for paint. Just remember that only one wall in each room will be painted and I prefer primary/darker colors. I'm not a fan of pastels.

Here is the quilt and curtains that we have for our bedroom:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3260.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3261.jpg

Do you think a cranberry wall would be too much? Should I go with a blue? The wall I would be painting would be the one the bed sits against. The curtains would be to the side of that. The reverse side of the quilt is a solid red and it shows when I fold it back.

Owen and Connor's room:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3263.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3264.jpg

These are the items that I bought when we first moved in to this place - so Connor was only 2 at the time. Do you think the print is too babyish for a newly turned 5 and 7 year old? I really love the bold, bright colors and Connor still loves cars and trucks. The curtain that matches is a blue and white checkered. Owen's favorite color is blue and Connor's is green. What do you think would be a good accent color for the wall??

Sully's room:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3265.jpg

We have lots of Army/Camouflage stuff and I'd like to keep it. I think it works for his age. I know initially he liked the idea of painting his walls all different colors (like army green, beige, brown), but I'd really like to just use one color. What do you think?

Our main bathroom:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3262.jpg

There are two prints and a rug that match the colors of this shower curtain. I'm thinking a sage green?

I already know I'm going to do the downstairs half bath a yellow. That just leaves the living room and the kitchen. Our living room furniture and wall items have lots of blues, reds, and beige. I'm undecided on the accent wall. :confused3

The kitchen is tough because I don't really have a certain color scheme. I have a couple of different curtains I could use (there aren't a lot of windows in the house - there's just one window over the kitchen sink and then a door to the backyard). I sort of have a birdhouse theme as I have a few items with those in them. I had thought about some shade of green, but that's not really what I'd pick for a kitchen.

I'd love to hear your thoughts! And do you think two quarts would be enough to paint one average sized wall?

TigerTown

04-24-2009, 09:41 AM

I'd love to hear your thoughts! And do you think two quarts would be enough to paint one average sized wall?[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

I would go with this color scheme:

http://i199.photobucket.com/albums/aa32/kfsena/Misc%20Junk/nike-yellowshoe.jpg

MagicShell

04-24-2009, 09:45 AM

carissanboys

04-24-2009, 09:46 AM

I would go with this color scheme:

http://i199.photobucket.com/albums/aa32/kfsena/Misc%20Junk/nike-yellowshoe.jpg

Hmmmmmm - interesting choices. :rolleyes1

I'll be sure to keep those in mind (not) ! :thumbsup2

carissanboys

04-24-2009, 09:47 AM

I am glad that you enjoyed LMA. I must admit it is not my thing. We saw it once and I don't have a desire to see it again.

Good luck on the decorating. I would be of no help to you, I am not a decorator at all.

I'm glad we took a year off between seeing it. I think it's better the first time when you don't know what's going to happen.

jbmom

04-24-2009, 09:48 AM

Wow, I'm behind! Great updates Carissa. My boys love LMA, last year it was closed for refurbishment and they were so disappointed. How cool that the on fire person was a woman!

I'll give my opinion on paint colors with the disclaimer that I am not shy about color and really don't like pastels at all. I once painted the boys bathroom an orange that when the door was closed glowed orange from under it.:rolleyes1

For your bedroom I would do blue, its hard to tell the exact blue in the quilt, but maybe a denim blue. I think cranberry would be too much and drown everything out.

The boys bedroom I would pick a bright green. I love bright greens especially for kids rooms.

Sullys room I would choose the brown in the camo print.

The bathroom I would choose the orange to match the lion. Only because there is so much green in the shower curtain.

2 quarts may be enough depending on the size of the walls, but I have found with dark colors I may need to do 3 coats to get really good coverage. A quart will normally cover 100 sq ft. I always find myself buying a gallon so I have some for touchups or to paint rocks with the kids.

Have fun decorating!

carissanboys

04-24-2009, 09:53 AM

I'll give my opinion on paint colors with the disclaimer that I am not shy about color and really don't like pastels at all. I once painted the boys bathroom an orange that when the door was closed glowed orange from under it.:rolleyes1

:rotfl: That's cool because like I said - not a pastel fan anyway. :thumbsup2

For your bedroom I would do blue, its hard to tell the exact blue in the quilt, but maybe a denim blue. I think cranberry would be too much and drown everything out.

That's what I was wondering.

The boys bedroom I would pick a bright green. I love bright greens especially for kids rooms.

What do you mean by bright green?? Like the green in the print?

Sullys room I would choose the brown in the camo print.

I think that's a good idea. I love brown - was just afraid it might be too dark.

The bathroom I would choose the orange to match the lion. Only because there is so much green in the shower curtain.

I thought about that too. It's kind of a brownish/organge and I think it would look good.

Thanks so much for your input! :goodvibes

monkeybug

04-24-2009, 10:01 AM

I have the same bathroom set! Yay Target!
In our last house (the one owned by me and not the Navy) we painted the bathroom a similar color of the giraffe in the shower curtain. It was really cute!
I would go with a powdery/dusty blue (does that make sense) Not in a pastel tone, but more of a Country one. (blue and red are my second fav. color combo, #1 being blue and brown)
I agree with a light brown in the camo room, because there is so much green in the print.
The bright colors are tricky (I think) I love the bright green in the print, but I would probably be too chicken to paint the whole room that color. Maybe use it as an accent some how???
Have fun decorating! I miss colorful walls!
I added LMA to our must do list after seeing your pictures!! My 3 year old will love it!!! (what boy doesn't love fire??)

liznboys

04-24-2009, 10:37 AM

Sounds like a fun time in HS!

Our main bathroom:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/IMG_3262.jpg

Did you know I have that same shower curtain?! I bought it when we were getting the MD house ready to sell. I love it! Right now it's being used in ds's #'s 3&4 bathroom. I have the giraffe toothbrush holder and an elephant tiny towel.

Anyway, the bathroom it's in right now has beige walls as that's what we had them paint all the bathrooms when we moved here to keep it simple. I think green would look fantastic though!

For your room I'd say blue.
Owen & Connor maybe a bright light blue, green would work but if you do the bathroom green then I'd do something other than green for their room.
Sully a medium to light brown/warm beige (lighter than the brown in that blanket).

My older 2 have royal blue on 3 walls and BLACK on 1 wall. LOL It is dark but it's fine.

winkers

04-24-2009, 10:43 AM

My dh and boys love LMA......to me 1 time was enough, but I've seen it 3 times. It is more entertaining than Indiana Jones. The last time we watched that one, I was knocked out on drugs and drooling all over dh's shoulder the whole time.

I think for your room you could do just a slightly lighter cranberry shade.....

carissanboys

04-24-2009, 11:04 AM

I have the same bathroom set! Yay Target!
In our last house (the one owned by me and not the Navy) we painted the bathroom a similar color of the giraffe in the shower curtain. It was really cute!

Target is great for that kind of stuff. :goodvibes Our quilt on our bed is also from Target. Did you paint your bathroom walls the yellow or orange color of the giraffe?

I would go with a powdery/dusty blue (does that make sense) Not in a pastel tone, but more of a Country one. (blue and red are my second fav. color combo, #1 being blue and brown)

I think I know what you mean - kind of like a slate blue? That's what I was thinking of too. I ADORE brown and blue together. :thumbsup2

Thanks for your help!

Did you know I have that same shower curtain?! I bought it when we were getting the MD house ready to sell. I love it! Right now it's being used in ds's #'s 3&4 bathroom. I have the giraffe toothbrush holder and an elephant tiny towel.

We had the giraffe toothbrush and lion soap dispenser, but we recently got rid of them. I also have two of the bath towels that go with it.

Owen & Connor maybe a bright light blue, green would work but if you do the bathroom green then I'd do something other than green for their room.
Sully a medium to light brown/warm beige (lighter than the brown in that blanket).

Connor suggested doing one wall blue and one wall green and I might consider that. If I did that - not sure if I should do adjoining walls or opposite walls? And I think a light brown would be a good choice for Sully's room. :thumbsup2

I'm going to get some paint sample cards this weekend and I'll post my final decisions next week. I'd still love to hear other suggestions! :goodvibes

My dh and boys love LMA......to me 1 time was enough, but I've seen it 3 times. It is more entertaining than Indiana Jones. The last time we watched that one, I was knocked out on drugs and drooling all over dh's shoulder the whole time.

:rotfl: Yeah - I don't know what it was, but I just wasn't all that impressed with Indiana Jones. I wished I'd taken my parents to see LMA instead.

MRYPPNS

04-24-2009, 11:30 AM

I'll give my opinion on paint colors with the disclaimer that I am not shy about color and really don't like pastels at all. I once painted the boys bathroom an orange that when the door was closed glowed orange from under it.:rolleyes1

For your bedroom I would do blue, its hard to tell the exact blue in the quilt, but maybe a denim blue. I think cranberry would be too much and drown everything out.

The boys bedroom I would pick a bright green. I love bright greens especially for kids rooms.

Sullys room I would choose the brown in the camo print.

The bathroom I would choose the orange to match the lion. Only because there is so much green in the shower curtain.

2 quarts may be enough depending on the size of the walls, but I have found with dark colors I may need to do 3 coats to get really good coverage. A quart will normally cover 100 sq ft. I always find myself buying a gallon so I have some for touchups or to paint rocks with the kids.

Have fun decorating!

OK that was weird. You wrote exactly the colors I was going to suggest.

With dark colors get a tinted primer so you don't have to do as many coats of the wall color.

Is the kitchen and living room open to each other? Our kitchen/dinning room/living room and entry way is all open to each other so we have done earth tones from a light green, a dark green to browns.

carissanboys

04-24-2009, 11:39 AM

OK that was weird. You wrote exactly the colors I was going to suggest.

With dark colors get a tinted primer so you don't have to do as many coats of the wall color.

Is the kitchen and living room open to each other? Our kitchen/dinning room/living room and entry way is all open to each other so we have done earth tones from a light green, a dark green to browns.

I think everyone seems to be on the same page for the most part with the colors - with a few differences. I'm going to get samples of all the ones everyone mentions and then put them against the stuff I have and see what I think.

When you walk in the front door - you walk into the living room. There is a short hallway on the side that takes you to the kitchen (with the half bath in that hallway as well). So - the living room/kitchen do share a long wall. You can't really see most of the kitchen from the living room though. And I'm not sure which walls I would paint.

mousescrapper

04-24-2009, 11:42 AM

I need some decorating help! We are going to be painting an accent wall in each room of our new house.

Ok here is my 2-cents

for our bedroom:

My first insticnt is to go w/ the red...but yes it may be too much, now blue is nice but then you have to decide if the blue and cranberry accents is to Americana for you?

Maybe a nice warm brown tone I'm not talking mud brown, but like warm dessert brown.

Owen and Connor's room:

Ok I have to say the quilt spread and curtian panel our adorable and so bright and fun, but you may need to turn it more "growing up big boy" then little cute boy...not that your boys aren't cute!

I love the idea of green if you keep the spread motif too.

Sully's room:

I'd go w/ maybe a cool olive green...brown seems too obvious and the green color may warm up a boys room.

Our main bathroom:

Wow any color would be fun off that curtian...but the orange thought now that would be NEW and fun w/ some fun orange hand towels!

That just leaves the living room and the kitchen.

I like reds for a living room and blues or dark greens in the kitchen....JMHO

We have a brick fireplace that is open to both our kitchen den area and then the other side is our family/living room. The kitchen side is what you first see when you come in our house and that is a bold cranberryish red and the other side is a muted red w/ brown tones to it.

I'm sure whatever you pick will be great!

irene_dsc

04-24-2009, 02:41 PM

On the colors -

For your bedroom, I'd probably go with a slate blue, like you were thinking. I think red / cranberry would be too bright for a bedroom, personally. We had a burgundy accent wall in our old house in the family room that was great, though.

Brown could work for the camo room if it gets decent natural light. Otherwise, it might be a bit cave-like.

Ds has a similar primary colors quilt from Target, btw. He still loves it at age 7.5. He is actually lobbying for red walls, but we have been resisting so far! He has had primary blue and then green accent walls at the old house - personally, I thought it was a bit much. The rest of his furniture is dark brown, and he has a ton of stuff hung up on the walls.

Not sure on the bathroom. What color are the fixtures, etc?

Gabes_mommy

04-24-2009, 03:12 PM

What a great report!

I love to boat ride to DTD too. It's the main reason I've stayed at POFQ the past 3 trips. :rolleyes1

Can't wait to hear about the rest of your adventures. :)

Happydog

04-24-2009, 10:21 PM

Okay, Here is my 10 cents...

I say not Red in the bedroom b/c if the ceilings are low and the room relatively small, it could make it feel smaller -- even one wall. I have red walls in my kitchen/family room space, but it has high ceilings and lots of windows and so I think the red doesnt close things in. Even with one wall, I think a bedroom with the blues, or perhaps a taupe would keep the room "calming" and the red would be a "punch" of color with the accents in the spread, etc. Re the boys room, I say Green or Blue -- b/c they are cheery kid colors. Mine have similar schemes still, and I don't think the patterns are too "kiddish" and if you got rid of the spread, you could still do something with the walls in those colors. Re the Camo room, I'd go with a brown, yes, OR maybe consider a mid-green, a silverish gray green. It would accent the colors of the camo nicely. You don't want dark walls competing with the deep colors of the bedding.
Re the bathroom, I too vote for the lighter Giraffe "orange-gold tone" color... I think that would be a nice accent. HOWEVER, what color is the cabinetry? IF the color would clash with Orange, it might be harder to do that. I would find that out.
Color always looks darker in can, so keep that in mind. RE coats, we had 2 coats on our walls OVER a gray primer.

Regarding WHICH wall to"accent" pick the most achitecturally interesting wall in the space. This gives the accent some definition vs. just another wall...

CHECK out the Disney colors... we did our kids bathrooms and bedroom using Disney colors! :goodvibes

jmskinner

04-24-2009, 10:37 PM

Hi Carissa, trying to play catch up here. Love your LMA shots. The HISTK playground doesn't handle crowds very well. Its great first thing in the morning, but who has time to do that. We have rides to do first.

Not much help on the decorating I'm afraid. We always go with neutral colors on the walls since we always know we have to resale and don't want to scare people away. You will have to include pics once you are done though.

carissanboys

04-25-2009, 07:31 AM

I'm sure whatever you pick will be great!

Thanks for all of your suggestions. :goodvibes

Ds has a similar primary colors quilt from Target, btw. He still loves it at age 7.5. He is actually lobbying for red walls, but we have been resisting so far! He has had primary blue and then green accent walls at the old house - personally, I thought it was a bit much. The rest of his furniture is dark brown, and he has a ton of stuff hung up on the walls.

Not sure on the bathroom. What color are the fixtures, etc?

I'm thinking of going with green and blue for Owen and Connor's room - letting Connor keep his comforter and just getting a solid blue for Owen.

I believe the fixtures are satin nickel.

What a great report!

I love to boat ride to DTD too. It's the main reason I've stayed at POFQ the past 3 trips. :rolleyes1

Can't wait to hear about the rest of your adventures. :)

:welcome: Another installment should be up shortly. :thumbsup2

Okay, Here is my 10 cents...
Re the bathroom, I too vote for the lighter Giraffe "orange-gold tone" color... I think that would be a nice accent. HOWEVER, what color is the cabinetry? IF the color would clash with Orange, it might be harder to do that. I would find that out.

The cabinets are maple I believe. Kind of an organgy color.

We went last night and picked out paint samples. I think I've decided on most of them, but we're not ready to buy yet anyway so I have more time to change my mind. ;)

Hi Carissa, trying to play catch up here. Love your LMA shots. The HISTK playground doesn't handle crowds very well. Its great first thing in the morning, but who has time to do that. We have rides to do first.

Not much help on the decorating I'm afraid. We always go with neutral colors on the walls since we always know we have to resale and don't want to scare people away. You will have to include pics once you are done though.

We've done HISTK play area first thing in the morning before and it is much better that way. But, it wasn't top on our list this visit. I believe Heidi told me that it opens later now too.

WDWAtLast

04-25-2009, 08:02 AM

I also think a Slate blue in the bedroom instead of Cranberry - although a cranberry in the dining room/kitchen area can be great!

One gallon of paint can be cheaper than 2 quarts. Just be sure to check prices! And with any darker color you will need 2 coats (some reds require 3 coats - even with a tinted primer) Be sure and get good quality paint - I have had really good luck with Behr (Home Depot) and Valspar (Lowe's) Don't be afraid to get a sample color and "try it out" on a small square in the room for a few days. Colors can change in different light. A beautiful tan/taupe can turn pink in evening light. Better to know before you paint the whole room! (been there, done that! lol)

And while all paint stores can color match, I have been happier with the colors that I choose from the color swatches/chips. I just match the swatch to the fabric, etc., I am trying to match and take them together into the room they will be to see how they match - fluorescent lighting, natural light - all can change a color so that it doesn't appear to match.

Good luck, can't wait to see finished pics!!!

carissanboys

04-25-2009, 08:11 AM

Let's finish up this day so that we can get to my birthday, shall we??

I found a couple of pictures that I forgot to post with the last installment. I guess I did take a few at the HISTK playset.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4473.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4474.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4475.jpg

We left Hollywood Studios and headed back to POR. The boys really wanted to check out the pool so the plan was to go back to our room, change, swim for a little bit, and then hit the food court for dinner.

As we opened the door to our room we were all excited to see if we had been left a special towel animal.

Yes, we were! Well, we were left a towel...creation anyway. Not an animal and at first, I didn't know what it was. Chuck figured it out for me. :rolleyes1

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4477.jpg

It's a towel heart. :love:

We also saw this:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4476.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4478.jpg

Coming back to our to see what Mousekeeping left for us became a highlight of each day. :goodvibes

Everyone got into their swimsuits (except for me) and headed over to Ol' Man Island.

I took this picture along the way:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4479.jpg

Chuck said the water was pretty cold - I'm sure the cold rain and cooler temps from earlier in the day didn't help any.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4480.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4491.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4483.jpg

Sully trying out the slide:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4487.jpg

Owen's turn:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4489.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4492.jpg

We didn't spend too long at the pool. When lips began turning blue, we headed back to our room and got changed. It was time to go eat!!

The boys got the kids' chicken nugget meal, which I thought was pretty skimpy. Definitely not enough food for Sully. But, from what the boys said, the nuggets were pretty tasty.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2928.jpg

I had heard good things about the Create-Your-Own-Pasta so that's what Chuck and I had. I HIGHLY recommend it!

You get to pick your pasta, your sauce, and then whatever you want for ingredients. I got penne with chicken, mushrooms, broccoil, parmesan cheese, and alfredo sauce. Chuck got penne with chicken and pesto sauce. Not sure what else he had in his. Both were delicious. It also came with a piece of garlic bread.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2929.jpg

I got a piece of chocolate cake for dessert and Chuck got the carrot cake. But, I felt badly that the boys didn't get a lot of food so I let them all share my cake and then Chuck and I shared the carrot cake.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2930.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2931.jpg

At some point, Connor needed to use the restroom so off we went. When we got in the bathroom, I was glad I had taken my camera with me. :rolleyes1

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2932.jpg

Aren't they cool??

We had talked about heading to DTD after dinner, but we were all pretty tired. We spotted the horse drawn carriages and I decided I wanted to make a reservation for sometime that week. You have to do this by calling the main recreation line.

Back in the room the boys watched a bit of TV and Chuck decided to head to DTD by himself to do some shopping for a certain someone. :rolleyes1

The boys got to bed at a decent time and I went to bed fairly early myself. I was very much looking forward to my birthday the next day. :yay:

Up Next - It's a Stitch Kind of Day :stitch:

MeMom

04-25-2009, 08:24 AM

Another set of great pictures! The food looks good.

I love the peaceful atmosphere of POR.
That's a beautiful picture of the river looking toward the wheel. That one needs to go in a frame in your house somewhere.

I can't help with decorating ideas, as I'm not very creative. I steal from others. My bedroom is Polynesian Resort, and the kitchen is Wilderness Lodge. The den takes turns - Wilderness Lodge in the fall and winter and Old Key West in the spring and summer. The walls are half paneling and half plain beige, and the couch is beige. All I have to do is take everything off the walls and put up the new, change the pillows, change foresty plants for tropical ones, and I've changed the entire feel of the room within a few minutes.

Good luck with your making your choices. It'll be fun to decorate a new place!

carissanboys

04-25-2009, 08:25 AM

One gallon of paint can be cheaper than 2 quarts. Just be sure to check prices! And with any darker color you will need 2 coats (some reds require 3 coats - even with a tinted primer) Be sure and get good quality paint - I have had really good luck with Behr (Home Depot) and Valspar (Lowe's) Don't be afraid to get a sample color and "try it out" on a small square in the room for a few days. Colors can change in different light. A beautiful tan/taupe can turn pink in evening light. Better to know before you paint the whole room! (been there, done that! lol)

:welcome: Thanks for the info on the paint brands. I saw Valspar last night at Lowe's, but didn't know how good it was. :thumbsup2

Happydog

04-25-2009, 08:29 AM

What a great update! RE the towel heart, I think that was cute! Now, did you do mousekeeping tips? How did you do that, and when? The times we have stayed on property has always been "rented" points, and they don't come daily. Our stay at the Contemporary was the resort, but that time I had no idea about mousekeeping let alone DIS...

Also, I agree with the post about checking out paint in the light... If you grab like six or so samples you can tape them together to make a bigger swatch, then look at it. the little squares are so small! :headache:

Maple cabinets should give you a wide range of color -- but I would take the chip and find something the same color to see what it looks like next to it.

Good LUCK with your HDTV updates!!!! Looking forward to hearing about your choices.

carissanboys

04-25-2009, 08:36 AM

I love the peaceful atmosphere of POR.
That's a beautiful picture of the river looking toward the wheel. That one needs to go in a frame in your house somewhere.

On another day I went around by myself with my good camera and took lots of great shots. Maybe I'll put some together in a frame.

I can't help with decorating ideas, as I'm not very creative. I steal from others. My bedroom is Polynesian Resort, and the kitchen is Wilderness Lodge. The den takes turns - Wilderness Lodge in the fall and winter and Old Key West in the spring and summer. The walls are half paneling and half plain beige, and the couch is beige. All I have to do is take everything off the walls and put up the new, change the pillows, change foresty plants for tropical ones, and I've changed the entire feel of the room within a few minutes.

That's very cool! :thumbsup2

What a great update! RE the towel heart, I think that was cute! Now, did you do mousekeeping tips? How did you do that, and when? The times we have stayed on property has always been "rented" points, and they don't come daily. Our stay at the Contemporary was the resort, but that time I had no idea about mousekeeping let alone DIS...

I have never in my life tipped housekeeping at a hotel before, so this was new to me too. The boys decorated special envelops before we left for the trip. I put $5 in each one ($1 a day per person) and left it out on the table each morning before we headed to the parks. I'm not sure if it makes a difference or not, but we had a lot of surprises when we got back to our room each day. :thumbsup2

torsie24

04-25-2009, 08:57 AM

DisneyJo

04-25-2009, 03:22 PM

I love the towel animals you got even if it took a while to work out it was a heart :rotfl:

The make your own pasta at POR is fantastic isn't it, I loved it, DD's favourite was the salad though and she had it so many times!

The old fashioned loos are great aren't they, we had a similar one in my childhood house :rotfl:

cjackearl

04-25-2009, 05:04 PM

The HISTK playground looks so cute. We'll have to swing by and take a peek at it this trip.

The pasta really does look delicious. In the past I would probably have picked the one Chuck got, but since my last child I can't do garlic anymore, so no more pesto for me.:sad2:

What a beautiful pool area. I hope the water warmed up for you guys.

KathyRN137

04-25-2009, 05:53 PM

Well, you know your resort is well-themed when even the toilets are special!! :laughing:

Great pool pix, the boys look like they're having a great time, especially on the slide. I'm looking forward to the birthday post! :thumbsup2

Kathy

mousescrapper

04-25-2009, 08:30 PM

Nice Mousekeeping surprises!

Your pasta meals look so YUMMY!!!! and ow those were some big pieces of cake....CSR's were half the size.

Looking forward to your birthday!

eandesmom

04-25-2009, 09:47 PM

Great updates! I am jealous about LMA, we would have loved to have seen it. Not enough hours in the world for everything!

Regarding the paint...personally I would go for red in the bedroom as it is only one wall. but that's me and I wouldn't want blue on the wall in "my" room. Very different feelings so it just depends on what you want. Passion or serenity. LOL!

Bathroom, I agree on the orangey color if you can find one that works with the maple cabinets well, otherwise the green is nice but it might be too much green.

Sully's room, brown. That will age with him well.

For the little guys! Bright green. I did this in my youngests room as a whole wall of bright green was too much. He's 8 and I can't see this changing for at least another 2 years.

I did the mural part when he was in K (he's in 2nd now)
http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k308/eandesmom/House/Fall06-01.jpg

And added the curtains in 1st

http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k308/eandesmom/House/ImportedPhotos00075.jpg

Personally I don't do primer. I do multiple coats of the same color. Every time I've done primer, I need 2 coats over the primer, even if the primer is tinted. Plan for 2 coats no matter what, maybe 3 and buy GOOD paint. The quality makes a huge difference. I've used BERH, Valspar, Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams. The BM and the Sherwin Williams provided much better coverage even with a dark color in my opinion. Yes, they did cost more but ultimately saved me time and total coats.

jmskinner

04-26-2009, 09:23 AM

Great update Carissa. You are making me homesick for POR. I just love that place, but guess we should try others.

Oh, ate at Cracker Barrel last night. Sooooo good!

carissanboys

04-26-2009, 09:36 AM

Aww, I love your little towel toothbrush holder, and the cuddly animal arrangement, but I'm not so sure I'd have figured out the heart either....

Your boys look like thye had fun in the pool and that carrot cake looks super yummy!!!

I'm not a huge carrot cake fan, but the chocolate cake (I got a very small bite) was delish!

I love the towel animals you got even if it took a while to work out it was a heart :rotfl:

The make your own pasta at POR is fantastic isn't it, I loved it, DD's favourite was the salad though and she had it so many times!

The old fashioned loos are great aren't they, we had a similar one in my childhood house :rotfl:

We ended up having the pasta three times. :thumbsup2

The HISTK playground looks so cute. We'll have to swing by and take a peek at it this trip.

The pasta really does look delicious. In the past I would probably have picked the one Chuck got, but since my last child I can't do garlic anymore, so no more pesto for me.:sad2:

What a beautiful pool area. I hope the water warmed up for you guys.

We didn't end up using the pool much, but the next time was definitely warmer.

Well, you know your resort is well-themed when even the toilets are special!! :laughing:

:rotfl: So true!

Nice Mousekeeping surprises!

Your pasta meals look so YUMMY!!!! and ow those were some big pieces of cake....CSR's were half the size.

Looking forward to your birthday!

They were big! Made it easy to divide it into thirds for the boys.

Great updates! I am jealous about LMA, we would have loved to have seen it. Not enough hours in the world for everything!

Personally I don't do primer. I do multiple coats of the same color. Every time I've done primer, I need 2 coats over the primer, even if the primer is tinted. Plan for 2 coats no matter what, maybe 3 and buy GOOD paint. The quality makes a huge difference. I've used BERH, Valspar, Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams. The BM and the Sherwin Williams provided much better coverage even with a dark color in my opinion. Yes, they did cost more but ultimately saved me time and total coats.

So true about not having enough hours for everything.

Thanks for all of the input on the paint. Your son's room is co cute! :goodvibes

Great update Carissa. You are making me homesick for POR. I just love that place, but guess we should try others.

Oh, ate at Cracker Barrel last night. Sooooo good!

What did you have?? :hyper:

jmskinner

04-26-2009, 10:08 AM

LaurenMic

04-26-2009, 11:29 AM

Hi Carissa! Great update! I love the toilets at POR that is so funny you took a picture of them :rotfl: Oooo I wonder what Chuck got you! I can't wait to hear all about your bday...a stitch kind of day?? The suspense is killing me! :lmao:

Jeff90

04-26-2009, 11:55 AM

Hey there Carissa! Greetings from the NC Mountains!!!! I just read through and now caught up!!!! I'm lovin it!!!!!:goodvibes

Let me just say we were visiting my parents (who live close to I95) in eastern NC, just as you were coming through the strom in NC! My step father was in Hope Mills for his job just as the storm had turned over that truck! We were waiting for him to return and he called saying he would be late b/c he was in traffic caused by the storm!!! Glad you all made it through safely just as he did!!!!

Love the report and can't wait for more updates!!!!

liznboys

04-26-2009, 01:40 PM

Looks like a fun time at the pool!
The pasta looks delicious, dh would love that.

dddisrunner

04-26-2009, 05:51 PM

LOVED your update! There is nothing like relaxing by the pool after a crazy day at the parks! Sorry it was a bit chilly though. POR looks like such a peaceful resort! Your desserts looked yummy and so did the pasta! Bummer about the kids meals though!

Happydog

04-26-2009, 10:57 PM

Ditto on the photos! Thanks for sharing them! :goodvibes

thegreggersmom

04-26-2009, 11:31 PM

subscribing

and your boys are adorable!

blue_river

04-26-2009, 11:37 PM

Holy smokers I've missed a lot!

That reuban sandwich looks delicious!

You got some nice pics of POR :thumbsup2

I really liked the toothbrush holder towel thingy...we weren't as lucky as you with so many!!! Awesome :wizard:

Was the water really that cold? I've been trying to convince DH we should go in the cooler months and that's one of his biggest complaints....he wants to be able to enjoy the pools & water parks without freezing...... :sad2:

carissanboys

04-27-2009, 07:33 AM

My usual, Country Fried Steak, Mashed Potatos with white gravy, green beans, and a side salad. I did hear someone ordering a lemon pepper trout that I may have to try next time. DH orders the same thing except he gets corn and cole slaw. He doesn't eat any beans.:sad2:

The food was great as usual, but we had to track down a manager because after 10 minutes no one had greeted us or taken our drink order. I don't think the staff knew who we belonged to.

Sounds like our experience the night of the tornado!

Hi Carissa! Great update! I love the toilets at POR that is so funny you took a picture of them :rotfl: Oooo I wonder what Chuck got you! I can't wait to hear all about your bday...a stitch kind of day?? The suspense is killing me! :lmao:

I'll try to get an update done today. :thumbsup2

Hey there Carissa! Greetings from the NC Mountains!!!! I just read through and now caught up!!!! I'm lovin it!!!!!:goodvibes

Let me just say we were visiting my parents (who live close to I95) in eastern NC, just as you were coming through the strom in NC! My step father was in Hope Mills for his job just as the storm had turned over that truck! We were waiting for him to return and he called saying he would be late b/c he was in traffic caused by the storm!!! Glad you all made it through safely just as he did!!!!

Love the report and can't wait for more updates!!!!

:welcome: Hey Jeff! :goodvibes Wow! Glad your stepfather was okay too!

Thanks for reading. :)

Looks like a fun time at the pool!
The pasta looks delicious, dh would love that.

It was delicious!

LOVED your update! There is nothing like relaxing by the pool after a crazy day at the parks! Sorry it was a bit chilly though. POR looks like such a peaceful resort! Your desserts looked yummy and so did the pasta! Bummer about the kids meals though!

Thanks Diane :goodvibes

Ditto on the photos! Thanks for sharing them! :goodvibes

:goodvibes

subscribing

and your boys are adorable!

:welcome: and thanks!

Was the water really that cold? I've been trying to convince DH we should go in the cooler months and that's one of his biggest complaints....he wants to be able to enjoy the pools & water parks without freezing...... :sad2:

I think the problem that day was that it had been raining and it was cool - not much sun. I don't really consider March to be a "cooler" month as it can still get pretty hot. I think as long as you aren't thinking about January (my favorite month to go) or February - you'd be fine. I didn't actually go in the water that day, but Chuck said it was chilly. There were still tons of people in the pool and the day that I went in it was plenty warm. :thumbsup2

WDWAtLast

04-27-2009, 09:28 AM

The food all looks yummy - especially the chocolate cake!! You were so sweet to give it to your boys! I am not sure if I could have shared chocolate - it's my favorite! :lmao:

carissanboys

04-27-2009, 10:15 AM

The food all looks yummy - especially the chocolate cake!! You were so sweet to give it to your boys! I am not sure if I could have shared chocolate - it's my favorite! :lmao:

:rotfl: It wasn't easy! I'm sure I made them realize the sacrifice I was making. :rolleyes1

blue_river

04-27-2009, 11:52 AM

I think the problem that day was that it had been raining and it was cool - not much sun. I don't really consider March to be a "cooler" month as it can still get pretty hot. I think as long as you aren't thinking about January (my favorite month to go) or February - you'd be fine. I didn't actually go in the water that day, but Chuck said it was chilly. There were still tons of people in the pool and the day that I went in it was plenty warm. :thumbsup2

I'd like to go in January and experience walking around the parks without feeling like I'm in a oven :laughing:

carissanboys

04-27-2009, 01:19 PM

I'd like to go in January and experience walking around the parks without feeling like I'm in a oven :laughing:

We did swim in our splash pool at Windsor Hills in January, but I paid to have it heated.

winkers

04-27-2009, 03:46 PM

That is an interesting towel formation!

mindyd

04-27-2009, 04:38 PM

I love the towel animal I can't wait to get to POR it looks so beautiful. I am sure my husband will be hitting up the pasta station it is his favorite food. Looking forward to more!

carissanboys

04-27-2009, 05:04 PM

That is an interesting towel formation!

I'm glad I'm not the only one who thought so! :rolleyes1

I love the towel animal I can't wait to get to POR it looks so beautiful. I am sure my husband will be hitting up the pasta station it is his favorite food. Looking forward to more!

Things have been busy here today, but I'll have an update posted tomorrow morning. :thumbsup2

mousescrapper

04-27-2009, 05:25 PM

Things have been busy here today, but I'll have an update posted tomorrow morning. :thumbsup2

looking foward to it!!

carissanboys

04-28-2009, 08:14 AM

~ March 30th, 2009 ~

My birthday finally arrived. The only reason I was excited was because I was at Disney World - otherwise the fact that I was turning 35 really wouldn't have been a day to celebrate.

I woke up at six and did the normal routine. My plan every day was to try and be out the door around 8 a.m. (opening was at 9). This morning we decided to go over to the food court and use snack credits for breakfast. We hadn't used any snack credits the first two days and had accumulated quite a few. We got donuts, muffins, yogurt, and fruit.

Then it was time to head to the Magic Kingdom.

Once we arrived at the TTC, I went to the Will Call window to get my gift card for my birthday.

For anyone who already has a ticket and wants to get one of the other items, you will need to show your ticket to prove you already have one. She actually asked to see ALL of our tickets. I'm not sure if it was because we did the military salute or what. :confused3 And she definitely tried to get me to pick one of the other options instead of the gift card. But, I knew what I wanted. Also, this was the only day that I wore my birthday pin. They told me I should wear it all week long, but I just felt funny wearing it on the other days. I did wear it on our last day for a short time, but I'll explain when I get to that part.

Time to get on the monorail.

Connor loves to look at maps.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4495.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4494.jpg

One thing I wanted to mention - the nice thing about the military salute tickets is that each one had our name on it so there was never any mix up of tickets. They still usually had to scan our tickets for some reason as the machine had issues with them, but we never had a problem like we have in the past with regular tickets.

While we waited for the opening show to begin, the boys played with the hoola hoops left out.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4500.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4501.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4502.jpg

I let the boys play for a while and then had them put the hoops down so that other kids would have a chance. We had time to take some other pictures.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4503.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4504.jpg

Stitch was ready for his big day at the park.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4498.jpg

This cracks me up. When I take a group shot, I put my hand up so that everyone will look at me. Whenever I do this, everyone waves!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4497.jpg

Before the show started, Chuck came up with a way to carry Stitch around for the day.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4508.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4510.jpg

The boys found a slug.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4511.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4512.jpg

Here comes Mickey!!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4514.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4515.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4520.jpg

And look who showed up!!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4521.jpg

I don't know if it was just that we were paying more attention on this trip, but we saw Stitch OFTEN and so many Stitch items.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4523.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4525.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4526.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4528.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4529.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4530.jpg

With the park officially open, it was time to head down Main Street. Look what we saw on the way!

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4531.jpg

I just thought it was the cutest thing and HAD to have a picture!

Up Next - Will We Lose Stitch Forever?? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31609960&postcount=711)

Lifelong_Dreamer

04-28-2009, 08:20 AM

Love the smile and wave picture. :rotfl:

wvdislover

04-28-2009, 08:30 AM

How fun! We have NEVER made opening (except when we have early ADR's, but we still miss the festivities then)...I'd really like to make that a goal for our next trip. Make rope drop at MK at least one day! Now, if only I can convince my DH and DD's :rolleyes1

jmskinner

04-28-2009, 08:40 AM

Love all the pics! One day we will see rope drop!

We hardly ever use our snack credits, think I got 13 rice crispy treats before leaving the hotel on our last day.

GGOOFY1

04-28-2009, 09:03 AM

Great updates Carissa, keep them coming. Happy Birthday:cake::bday:party:

blue_river

04-28-2009, 09:05 AM

I would have worn the birthday button all week long - that would be a chance of a lifetime!!!

What a cutie Connor is reading the map!

The waving picture is funny :lmao:

Nice shot of the Mickey flag :thumbsup2

We usually save up our snack credits till the last day and I let the girls choose a bunch of stuff to take home for their friends.

Do the characters come down below to interact with everyone?

Lady Lallie

04-28-2009, 09:11 AM

I love how you carried Stitch. It looks very Stitch appropriate.

Great pictures of the Park Opening Show. :goodvibes

mousescrapper

04-28-2009, 10:43 AM

love all the opening shots...I was bummed we missed it this trip.

The weather looks great...hmmmwhere were we? I think having breakfast before heading over to the Marketplace...we had sweatshirts and pants on too that morning it was cool.

Looking forward to more!

irene_dsc

04-28-2009, 10:58 AM

Lots of great pics, as usual! I think MK rope drop was the only one we managed, and I was trying to figure out where all the hula hoops had come from! Looks like the boys had fun with them.

I think it is so true about suddenly noticing things everywhere - but Stitch is too cute.

cjackearl

04-28-2009, 01:18 PM

That's funny that the Will Call lady was trying to talk you out of the gift card option. Good job standing firm lady!:thumbsup2

Your family looks nice in their coordinating clothing. Did you plan that?

I have to say, all the small Stitch pictures are so cute, but for some reason the big character Stitch kind of freaks me out.:confused3

Great pictures of the opening ceremony. :)

KathyRN137

04-28-2009, 01:31 PM

I love that, even though they were surrounded by the excitement of the Magic Kingdom Welcome Ceremony, the boys took time out to "discover" the slug!! :lmao:

I hope Stitch left it alone.... he might have mistaken it for a "cousin" of his!!

Kathy

whogirl'smom

04-28-2009, 01:39 PM

I just love the opening ceremony at MK; the first time dd saw it she was just shaking in her daddy's arms. So sweet. Great pictures you got of it!

carissanboys

04-28-2009, 08:12 PM

Love the smile and wave picture. :rotfl:

They do it EVERY time! :rotfl:

How fun! We have NEVER made opening (except when we have early ADR's, but we still miss the festivities then)...I'd really like to make that a goal for our next trip. Make rope drop at MK at least one day! Now, if only I can convince my DH and DD's :rolleyes1

We made rope drop almost every day on our trip. But, since we're early birds and the openings were always at 9, it was pretty easy for us to do. If opening had been at 8, I don't think we could have made it every time.

Love all the pics! One day we will see rope drop!

We hardly ever use our snack credits, think I got 13 rice crispy treats before leaving the hotel on our last day.

Using the snack credits for breakfast every other day or two worked out really well. We did get some snacks, but we were usually too full from lunch and dinner to need any.

Great updates Carissa, keep them coming. Happy Birthday:cake::bday:party:

Thanks! :goodvibes

Do the characters come down below to interact with everyone?

No - they just arrive on the train.

I love how you carried Stitch. It looks very Stitch appropriate.

Great pictures of the Park Opening Show. :goodvibes

It was all Chuck's idea to carry Stitch like that. I thought it was pretty cute.

love all the opening shots...I was bummed we missed it this trip.

The weather looks great...hmmmwhere were we? I think having breakfast before heading over to the Marketplace...we had sweatshirts and pants on too that morning it was cool.

Looking forward to more!

Yes - it was pretty chilly that morning, but it warmed up fast.

Lots of great pics, as usual! I think MK rope drop was the only one we managed, and I was trying to figure out where all the hula hoops had come from! Looks like the boys had fun with them.

I think it is so true about suddenly noticing things everywhere - but Stitch is too cute.

I definitely think it's true too. That's why it was so cool having him with us on this trip. :thumbsup2

Your family looks nice in their coordinating clothing. Did you plan that?

Do you mean the boys' fleece jackets? Their aunt bought those for them last year. They were only coordinated until it warmed up and they took them off! ;)

I love that, even though they were surrounded by the excitement of the Magic Kingdom Welcome Ceremony, the boys took time out to "discover" the slug!! :lmao:

:rotfl: They saw the slug before the show started. ;)

I hope Stitch left it alone.... he might have mistaken it for a "cousin" of his!!

He did seem quite tempted by it!

I just love the opening ceremony at MK; the first time dd saw it she was just shaking in her daddy's arms. So sweet. Great pictures you got of it!

Thanks! How cute about your daughter. :goodvibes

Jeff90

04-28-2009, 08:42 PM

Love how you all "wave!" How cute! And Happy Late Birthday!!!!

Charleston Princess

04-28-2009, 08:45 PM

Okay, Carissa, I have to say that confetti and streamers raining down on you on your birthday is a pretty cool way to start the day! :thumbsup2

Happydog

04-28-2009, 09:07 PM

great update, here! I have never seen the "opening" show at MK -- this was all outside the main entrance, though, right? Do they let people in like they do at DHS? When we were there in Nov they did that preshow on the street before they let people up to the rides... is there more happening "inside" at MK? We were there early, how early were you there to see this preshow? The family pics were great!
:thumbsup2

scottny

04-29-2009, 12:54 AM

Ok will be back soon, very lost as to where I was so I might have to start over.

Be back soon

WDWAtLast

04-29-2009, 07:03 AM

I also love the smile and wave - too cute!!! Great pics of rope drop - makes me excited for our trip!!!

MeMom

04-29-2009, 07:25 AM

~ March 30th, 2009 ~[/I][/COLOR]

My birthday finally arrived. The only reason I was excited was because I was at Disney World - otherwise the fact that I was turning 35 really wouldn't have been a day to celebrate.

While we waited for the opening show to begin, the boys played with the hoola hoops left out.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4500.jpg

Up Next - Will We Lose Stitch Forever??

I feel the same way about birthdays. They're only special if I am in Disney World!

Do you ever think Disney dorkish things when you look at other people's pictures, such as

Our kids may have played with the exact same hula hoops.

or

That round concrete sitting wall/flower/tree thing is right where that nice lady gave Brooklynn the Belle dress.

Those are two of the thoughts I had when looking at your pictures, because I am an admitted Disney dork.

Something else I thought was

What a handsome bunch of guys this lucky girl has!

Looks like you guys had a lot of fun, and I am enjoying going along with you as you get to re-live it. I've gotten a little more pumped this week as we made our ADR's on Sunday, so it's seeming really real and ever closer this week.

And I am hoping you do not lose Stitch forever, by the way!

carissanboys

04-29-2009, 07:52 AM

Love how you all "wave!" How cute! And Happy Late Birthday!!!!

Thanks Jeff! :goodvibes

Okay, Carissa, I have to say that confetti and streamers raining down on you on your birthday is a pretty cool way to start the day! :thumbsup2

Wasn't it?? We had a pretty good spot for the show. We were right against the wall, but close to the entrance on the left so that once they let us enter, we'd get in pretty quickly. :thumbsup2

great update, here! I have never seen the "opening" show at MK -- this was all outside the main entrance, though, right? Do they let people in like they do at DHS? When we were there in Nov they did that preshow on the street before they let people up to the rides... is there more happening "inside" at MK? We were there early, how early were you there to see this preshow? The family pics were great!
:thumbsup2

Yes, this was at the main entrance. I believe the show starts 15 minutes before opening so that we're actually in the park and on Main St. before the official opening at 9. I remember we got to Tomorrowland and had to wait a minute before they let us in. We got there probably around 8:30 - maybe a little earlier.

Ok will be back soon, very lost as to where I was so I might have to start over.

Be back soon

:rotfl: Just use the links at the beginning Scott! You shouldn't have missed too many updates - mainly chit chat. ;)

I also love the smile and wave - too cute!!! Great pics of rope drop - makes me excited for our trip!!!

Thanks!

I feel the same way about birthdays. They're only special if I am in Disney World!

Do you ever think Disney dorkish things when you look at other people's pictures, such as

Our kids may have played with the exact same hula hoops.

or

That round concrete sitting wall/flower/tree thing is right where that nice lady gave Brooklynn the Belle dress.

Those are two of the thoughts I had when looking at your pictures, because I am an admitted Disney dork.

Something else I thought was

What a handsome bunch of guys this lucky girl has!

Looks like you guys had a lot of fun, and I am enjoying going along with you as you get to re-live it. I've gotten a little more pumped this week as we made our ADR's on Sunday, so it's seeming really real and ever closer this week.

And I am hoping you do not lose Stitch forever, by the way!

Thanks MeMom! I think they're a pretty good lookin' bunch if I do say so myself. :goodvibes And I guess I'm a dork too because I do the same thing! :thumbsup2

LaurenMic

04-29-2009, 07:53 AM

Great pictures! I am sad to say that in all my trips I have never seen the opening ceremony at MK:sad2:

mommytothreeboys

04-29-2009, 10:24 AM

Hi Carissa! I'm back and I think I'm all caught up! I missed the paint debate, but I'm not much of a decorator so I wouldn't have been much help anyway!

We didn't do Sci Fi this trip, but we did on our 2007 trip and we loved it. So funny that you mention the Colossal Man clip, because my kids still make the "I just want to STOP GROWING!" joke all the time! Jeff and I went to Hoover Dam last April and they had a movie poster there since it has the dam in it....so funny! We cracked up and took a picture to bring back to the boys!

I agree about the kids meals....in 2007 Isaiah was 9 and it was definitely not enough food for him..we shared a lot which isn't a problem because the rest of us got so much food! Jonah is not a big eater so this year the kids meals were fine for him and Isaiah is 11 so he got adult meals..he was a happy camper! :thumbsup2

Nice pics of the Opening at MK. We saw it this year too and it made me all warm and fuzzy inside! I'm such a sap for all things Disney!

Well..off to start 10 days worth of laundry I didn't do while on vacation! Looking forward to more great updates! :yay:

irene_dsc

04-29-2009, 10:56 AM

Going a bit OT here, but guess who I saw yesterday....

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b308/Irene_DSC/Misc/CopyofPicture010.jpg

jmskinner

04-29-2009, 12:43 PM

Going a bit OT here, but guess who I saw yesterday....

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b308/Irene_DSC/Misc/CopyofPicture010.jpg

Cool, I love him!

AlohaAnnie

04-29-2009, 01:18 PM

Great Updates! Looking forward to more! I really love opening at MK. It is one of my goals for our upcoming trip in June.

We are moving this weekend and we recently painted the whole house. I will take pics of the new place so you can see them. We did a tan like color through out the whole house it looks good, and all bathrooms are yellow, along with the basement. Yellow really expands the room to make it look bright. DS room is blue, he loves blue. DD room is called magical, it is a mix of Purple with a bit of pink thrown in. Our room is the same tan color. DH office is orange, it really fits his personality. He has a lime green Ford Focus.
My Mom lives with us and her room is light pink.

I will post pics.

Tina

momrek06

04-29-2009, 01:58 PM

We had decided on seeing Lights, Motors, Action! this time around since we'd skipped it the previous year in lieu of Indiana Jones. I think LMA is a better show than IJ. We got there pretty early so were able to snatch up some decent seats. :woohoo:

Carissa, I love LMA!!! So exciting to watch!!! :yay:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4477.jpg
It's a towel heart.

:love:

~ March 30th, 2009 ~
My birthday finally arrived. The only reason I was excited was because I was at Disney World - otherwise the fact that I was turning 35 really wouldn't have been a day to celebrate.

:cake: HAPPY MARCH 30th BIRTHDAY, CARISSA!! :cake:

:blush: In the many many times we have traveled to WDW and DL we have never done a rope drop! :blush: BUT it sure does look like a very festive way to start your WDW day!!! :mickeyjum

blue_river

04-29-2009, 11:55 PM

popcorn::

:teeth:

:flower3:

M & K + 6

04-30-2009, 12:32 AM

Hi Carissa, LOVE your reports, I am addicted. I'm from Sydney Australia, and thinking of doing WH condos next September, but POR, looks inviting, bummer about the flight costs from Oz though. Budget is really tight. I hope you've got more reports to come, I check in way too often than I should.:laundy: (not getting done). House swap anytime? Although Sydney is freezing ATM, my dh wants to actually repair the hot tub RIGHT NOW!!!- its way too cold to swim:sad2:

dddisrunner

04-30-2009, 03:57 PM

What a great way to start your birthday!!! The pictures of the boys playing with the hula hoops is so cute!! Love the wave! Chuck's solution to carrying Stitch around made me laugh!:thumbsup2

liznboys

04-30-2009, 04:33 PM

The boys looks great in their matching jackets.

Love the waving! lol

My boys would have found the slug too (eww, I don't like slugs).

Ahhhh, I adore the MK morning show!! I can hear the music as I look at your pictures...

Looks like it was a beautiful day for your birthday! Can't wait to hear about the rest of your day.

carissanboys

05-01-2009, 07:21 AM

Great pictures! I am sad to say that in all my trips I have never seen the opening ceremony at MK

You must next time! :goodvibes

Hi Carissa! I'm back and I think I'm all caught up! I missed the paint debate, but I'm not much of a decorator so I wouldn't have been much help anyway!

We didn't do Sci Fi this trip, but we did on our 2007 trip and we loved it. So funny that you mention the Colossal Man clip, because my kids still make the "I just want to STOP GROWING!" joke all the time! Jeff and I went to Hoover Dam last April and they had a movie poster there since it has the dam in it....so funny! We cracked up and took a picture to bring back to the boys!

I agree about the kids meals....in 2007 Isaiah was 9 and it was definitely not enough food for him..we shared a lot which isn't a problem because the rest of us got so much food! Jonah is not a big eater so this year the kids meals were fine for him and Isaiah is 11 so he got adult meals..he was a happy camper!

Nice pics of the Opening at MK. We saw it this year too and it made me all warm and fuzzy inside! I'm such a sap for all things Disney!

Well..off to start 10 days worth of laundry I didn't do while on vacation! Looking forward to more great updates! :yay:

Glad to have you back Missy! :goodvibes

Too funny about Collosal Man! :rotfl:

Yes, Sully is kind of at that tough age. We've bought him adult meals here and there, but usually it's too much food for him. Some of the kids meals were fine for him. The chicken nugget one just seems to be a bit skimpier than the others.

Going a bit OT here, but guess who I saw yesterday....

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b308/Irene_DSC/Misc/CopyofPicture010.jpg

Cool!! Tell us more! :goodvibes

Great Updates! Looking forward to more! I really love opening at MK. It is one of my goals for our upcoming trip in June.

We are moving this weekend and we recently painted the whole house. I will take pics of the new place so you can see them. We did a tan like color through out the whole house it looks good, and all bathrooms are yellow, along with the basement. Yellow really expands the room to make it look bright. DS room is blue, he loves blue. DD room is called magical, it is a mix of Purple with a bit of pink thrown in. Our room is the same tan color. DH office is orange, it really fits his personality. He has a lime green Ford Focus.
My Mom lives with us and her room is light pink.

I will post pics.

Tina

Hope the move goes smoothly for you! Can't wait to see your pictures. :cool1:

[SIZE="3"]:cake: HAPPY MARCH 30th BIRTHDAY, CARISSA!! :cake:

:blush: In the many many times we have traveled to WDW and DL we have never done a rope drop! :blush: BUT it sure does look like a very festive way to start your WDW day!!! :mickeyjum

Thanks Karen! Wow - never made rope drop?? Are you night owls?? ;)

popcorn::

:teeth:

:flower3:

:cool2: Yesterday I had a migraine so I didn't feel much like posting. Today Sully is staying home because he's not feeling well. We both kind of have icky feeling tummies. :sick:

Hi Carissa, LOVE your reports, I am addicted. I'm from Sydney Australia, and thinking of doing WH condos next September, but POR, looks inviting, bummer about the flight costs from Oz though. Budget is really tight. I hope you've got more reports to come, I check in way too often than I should.:laundy: (not getting done). House swap anytime? Although Sydney is freezing ATM, my dh wants to actually repair the hot tub RIGHT NOW!!!- its way too cold to swim:sad2:

:welcome: Love to have Aussies drop by! :thumbsup2

What a great way to start your birthday!!! The pictures of the boys playing with the hula hoops is so cute!! Love the wave! Chuck's solution to carrying Stitch around made me laugh!:thumbsup2

I thought it was pretty cute. :goodvibes

The boys looks great in their matching jackets.

Love the waving! lol

My boys would have found the slug too (eww, I don't like slugs).

Ahhhh, I adore the MK morning show!! I can hear the music as I look at your pictures...

Looks like it was a beautiful day for your birthday! Can't wait to hear about the rest of your day.

It was a beautiful day!! :goodvibes

carissanboys

05-01-2009, 08:44 AM

After our photo op with the CM, we headed to Tomorrowland. Our first mission??

To ride Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin. Connor doesn't have a lot of requests, but that's his favorite ride. So, we headed over and there was no wait. :cool1:

The whole time I was on it I kept thinking, "This is so lame to me now after riding TSM!!" I hate how you have to spin around. But, I must have done something right on this trip because I got my highest score ever! (I took a picture, but it didn't come out.)

159,000 :cool1: (I know - not really that high, but it was for me!)

As we were exiting Buzz, we noticed this picture on the wall. We'd never noticed it before. :confused3

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4537.jpg

Once outside we were trying to decide what to do next when we practically walked right into.....

STITCH!!!!!! :stitch:

There was nobody around him except for a CM. As soon as Stitch saw our Stitch, he took him and headed off! :scared1:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4538.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4539.jpg

I think the boys were a little worried we'd never get our Stitch back! :rotfl:

Thankfully, Stitch returned and it was time for an autograph and pictures.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4540.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/12208520002-2.jpg

We said goodbye to Stitch and then I headed over to get us fastpasses for Space Mountain. Can you believe it?? I was going to ride another rollercoaster!! :scared:

At this point we decided to split up. Sully and I headed over to the Haunted Mansion while Chuck took Owen and Connor to Fantasyland. Neither one of them wanted to try HM.

On our way to HM, we stopped for this PP opportunity. I really wanted to try and get the whole family back over here, but it never happened.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/12208520001-1.jpg

Some more pictures along the way:

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4542.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4544.jpg

Up Next - Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain - Which is Scarier??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31656025&postcount=768)

WillowBelle

05-01-2009, 08:48 AM

Great reports once again :thumbsup2.

We have made rope drop @ MK a few times, we've never seen the hula-hoops. Wonder if this is something new?

Lifelong_Dreamer

05-01-2009, 08:49 AM

I'm really liking the family picture with Stitch. :thumbsup2

Lady Lallie

05-01-2009, 08:50 AM

What a cute interaction with Stitch!

I love the pictures in this installment, they are all very good!

whogirl'smom

05-01-2009, 08:52 AM

I thought the same thing about Buzz after we had ridden TSMM!! It didn't help that it was the first time we had tried Buzz--why it took three trips, I don't know.

That's a great picture of you and Sully by the castle. Hope the tummy troubles clear up for you both!:flower3:

BrooklynnsMommy

05-01-2009, 08:58 AM

I'm with you about Buzz. I love it but after riding Toy Story it just isn't as exciting.

torsie24

05-01-2009, 09:01 AM

Hahaha - stitch is so cheeky I love him!!

Lovely PP photos aswell! :cutie:

Can't wait for the next installment!

mommytothreeboys

05-01-2009, 09:03 AM

Good morning Carissa!

Great Pics...we noticed that picture of Stitch riding Buzz Lightyear this trip as well. I wonder if it's new?? Very cute!

Good for you riding Space Mountain! Can't wait to hear if you liked it....we couldn't ride it this trip due to refurb. :sad2:

Chuck is cracking me up in the picture with Stitch! :rotfl: He looks so enthusiastic to take a picture with a 5 foot blue furry space alien!! LOL! Too cute!

Did you buy your photopass CD? I'm leaning toward just buying a few of my favorites.

Keep up the great report!! ;)

kidsrfun

05-01-2009, 09:04 AM

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/12208520001-1.jpg

I have the same Vera Bradley Hipster!!! :banana: I just bought it for my next trip. Did it work ok for you? I have never used anything other than a fanny pack but wanted to buy bags that were a little 'nicer' since this trip is an all adult trip! :lovestruc

carissanboys

05-01-2009, 09:10 AM

Great reports once again :thumbsup2.

We have made rope drop @ MK a few times, we've never seen the hula-hoops. Wonder if this is something new?

I'm not sure. I think we've seen them before, but I'm not 100%.

I'm really liking the family picture with Stitch. :thumbsup2

I liked it too. :goodvibes

What a cute interaction with Stitch!

I love the pictures in this installment, they are all very good!

Thanks LL! :goodvibes

I thought the same thing about Buzz after we had ridden TSMM!! It didn't help that it was the first time we had tried Buzz--why it took three trips, I don't know.

That's a great picture of you and Sully by the castle. Hope the tummy troubles clear up for you both!:flower3:

Thanks! I'm feeling a bit better now. I kept Sully home from school and am just keeping an eye on him.

I'm with you about Buzz. I love it but after riding Toy Story it just isn't as exciting.

I wonder if it will get updated. :idea:

Hahaha - stitch is so cheeky I love him!!

Lovely PP photos aswell! :cutie:

Can't wait for the next installment!

Later in the trip there is another Stitch stealing incident. :rolleyes1

Good morning Carissa!

Great Pics...we noticed that picture of Stitch riding Buzz Lightyear this trip as well. I wonder if it's new?? Very cute!

Good for you riding Space Mountain! Can't wait to hear if you liked it....we couldn't ride it this trip due to refurb. :sad2:

Chuck is cracking me up in the picture with Stitch! :rotfl: He looks so enthusiastic to take a picture with a 5 foot blue furry space alien!! LOL! Too cute!

Did you buy your photopass CD? I'm leaning toward just buying a few of my favorites.

Keep up the great report!! ;)

Melissa (jmskinner) also noticed the picture for the first time recently. So, maybe it is new. :confused3

Sadly, we only ended up with 32 photopass pictures this trip. :sad2: We never get very many. I just paid to be able to download the pictures and then I can have copies made if I want. I mainly wanted to be able to post them here! :rotfl:

carissanboys

05-01-2009, 09:12 AM

I have the same Vera Bradley Hipster!!! :banana: I just bought it for my next trip. Did it work ok for you? I have never used anything other than a fanny pack but wanted to buy bags that were a little 'nicer' since this trip is an all adult trip! :lovestruc

:welcome: Yes - I loved it! My husband also carried a small backpack for rain gear, water bottles, and sunscreen so mainly used mine as a purse. It won't hold anything big so it depends what you need it for exactly.

Lady Lallie

05-01-2009, 10:29 AM

I didn't realize you could just download your photopass photos. How much does that cost if you don't mind me asking....?

blue_river

05-01-2009, 10:32 AM

Sorry to hear you & Sully are not feeling well today :hug:

But happy to see you updated :yay:

That was cute of Stitch to grab your Stitch and run away :rotfl:

Very lovely family photo with Stitch CAR :goodvibes

carissanboys

05-01-2009, 10:40 AM

I didn't realize you could just download your photopass photos. How much does that cost if you don't mind me asking....?

It's $14.95. No cheaper than getting prints, but I did it because I'd have the pictures right away and not have to wait (and that price is PER PICTURE).

Sorry to hear you & Sully are not feeling well today :hug:

But happy to see you updated :yay:

That was cute of Stitch to grab your Stitch and run away :rotfl:

Very lovely family photo with Stitch CAR :goodvibes

Thanks Heidi - I hear you're not feeling well either. :hug:

blue_river

05-01-2009, 10:50 AM

Thanks Heidi - I hear you're not feeling well either. :hug:

It's worse at night for some reason :confused3

I thought I had the cold licked yesterday until I woke up choking last night :sad2:

KathyRN137

05-01-2009, 10:58 AM

I think that our Stitch is way cuter!! :snooty:

Kathy

blue_river

05-01-2009, 10:59 AM

I think that our Stitch is way cuter!! :snooty:

Kathy

I second that!! :thumbsup2

Lady Lallie

05-01-2009, 11:06 AM

It's $14.95. No cheaper than getting prints, but I did it because I'd have the pictures right away and not have to wait (and that price is PER PICTURE).YIKES! :scared1:

carissanboys

05-01-2009, 11:19 AM

It's worse at night for some reason :confused3

I thought I had the cold licked yesterday until I woke up choking last night :sad2:

I find colds are always worse at night. That's why I usually take Nyquil to knock me out.

I think that our Stitch is way cuter!! :snooty:

Kathy

Do you mean compared to the one the CM had?? I agree. :thumbsup2

YIKES! :scared1:

I only purchased 5 I think. We really didn't get that many good ones.

irene_dsc

05-01-2009, 11:21 AM

Cool!! Tell us more! :goodvibes

:rolleyes1 Well, remember I said one of our clients might get to be on the show? We got to be there for the taping!!! :happytv: (not quite the right smiley, but...) It was pretty cool. We got the last lunch order in before they closed down the kitchen, since they were going to tape Guy in the kitchen. A limo pulled up, and we saw everyone scurrying around with luggage and stuff. He had a whole bag of shirts to choose from! Then, we saw him get out of the limo, but he went in the back kitchen door and disappeared. We'd finished our lunches by then (which were totally yummy, btw - I had sauteed shrimp and scallops with veggies, and dh had crab cakes with sauteed veggies - sorry, I didn't think to take pictures of the food!). We knew we had to leave soon-ish, since ds was taking the bus that day, but we decided to stick around a little longer. They taped one guy, who had apparently been picked ahead of time, eating his lunch, and then commenting about the food. A bit later, Guy came out to talk to a couple of people, including the guy who got to eat his lunch on camera. He was getting a little silly in some of his answers, so everyone started laughing, and the camera guy turned and panned across the nearby tables - which included us! So, there's a small chance we might actually end up in the show, although you would just see us laughing, not getting interviewed or anything. Right after they taped that bit, we had to go, so we missed our chance to get autographs, but it was still fun.

(I took my picture between when they were filming - that was the best picture I got, because people kept walking in front of me!)

We are really excited for our client - supposedly, some places have had 400% more sales even 4 years later, after being on the show! We had already been designing an addition - now I am wondering if it is too small!

Oh, and the show may air sometime in November, from what I hear, but we'll have to see what happens.

Goofster57

05-01-2009, 01:18 PM

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4473.jpg

Nice picture of the Bee, but isn't it missing Something/Somebody?

As we opened the door to our room we were all excited to see if we had been left a special towel animal.

It was always neat to see what Mousekeeping would leave for us

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4479.jpg

POR looks so nice, if we get back I have to at least stop by and walk around the grounds

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4487.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_4489.jpg

What's up with the Dad's having to wait at the bottom of the slide in the cold water?

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee163/carissanboys/Disney%2009/IMG_2932.jpg

At least it was inside ours is still out back

Nice update Carissa :woohoo:

carissanboys

05-01-2009, 01:32 PM

:rolleyes1 Well, remember I said one of our clients might get to be on the show? We got to be there for the taping!!! :happytv: (not quite the right smiley, but...) It was pretty cool. We got the last lunch order in before they closed down the kitchen, since they were going to tape Guy in the kitchen. A limo pulled up, and we saw everyone scurrying around with luggage and stuff. He had a whole bag of shirts to choose from! Then, we saw him get out of the limo, but he went in the back kitchen door and disappeared. We'd finished our lunches by then (which were totally yummy, btw - I had sauteed shrimp and scallops with veggies, and dh had crab cakes with sauteed veggies - sorry, I didn't think to take pictures of the food!). We knew we had to leave soon-ish, since ds was taking the bus that day, but we decided to stick around a little longer. They taped one guy, who had apparently been picked ahead of time, eating his lunch, and then commenting about the food. A bit later, Guy came out to talk to a couple of people, including the guy who got to eat his lunch on camera. He was getting a little silly in some of his answers, so everyone started laughing, and the camera guy turned and panned across the nearby tables - which included us! So, there's a small chance we might actually end up in the show, although you would just see us laughing, not getting interviewed or anything. Right after they taped that bit, we had to go, so we missed our chance to get autographs, but it was still fun.

(I took my picture between when they were filming - that was the best picture I got, because people kept walking in front of me!)

We are really excited for our client - supposedly, some places have had 400% more sales even 4 years later, after being on the show! We had already been designing an addition - now I am wondering if it is too small!

Oh, and the show may air sometime in November, from what I hear, but we'll have to see what happens.

Very cool Irene!! I totally believe about the more business. There have been a few episodes I've watched of the area and I jotted down the names of the places to try them out. :thumbsup2

Nice picture of the Bee, but isn't it missing Something/Somebody?

It was suppose to be the ant - not the bee!! :sad2:

With my fear of bees, do you really think I'd sit on top of one - even if it wasn't real??? :scared1:

POR looks so nice, if we get back I have to at least stop by and walk around the grounds

I think later this day I have TONS of pictures of POR to show. :thumbsup2

What's up with the Dad's having to wait at the bottom of the slide in the cold water?

:rotfl: I did it the next time we went to the pool!