So Much To Celebrate!!!...Sept 19th to 26th Trip!!! (Update 09/11/09)

[vladimir10]

OK, First, I have no idea what I'm doing here :lmao:

So, with that said, here is my stab at a pre-trip report!!!

The Plan: September 19th thru September 26th, AKV (First time Home)

The Players:
Me - vladimir10
Wife - vet1999
Son - JC
Friend - Em
Friend - Kev

So, the wife and I have been there several times (one of them was the honeymoon), but its been a while. My son, who is 4, never been to WDW.
So, his first trip, and his b-day in October.

Our friends (they are married, no kids) have never been there, but have always wanted to go.

For us, our 10 yr anniversary!!

Also, my wife has decided to run a triathalon locally, so she has been losing weight like crazy (over 60 pounds) and working out.

(Edited) Forgot this one (maybe on purpose) I turn the big 40 this August!

So, plenty to celebrate!!!

Can't plan much yet (June 21st for ADRs), but can get some ideas going.

We want to do MNSSHP. That week is a Tuesday and Friday, so we are trying for the Tuesday one Gotta work on costumes now!!!:charac4:

Also plan on doing the Sunset Safari (get the boy into Simba's Cubhouses, sure he'll love it), probably Monday night.

Want to also do an adult dinner (son into Simba's Cubhouses again :scratchin), just not sure where yet.

Probably get DxDP for all of us, we like to eat a lot, so that'll make most choices a little easier.

Hmm, what else, oh, for wife, jc and me, probably get the AP Premium, friends probably MYW tickets w/Park Hopper and Water Park.

Probably make a couple of breakfast character meals, maybe one dinner, but also want to not do ADRs for everything, want some flexibility.

Spend part of all of one day at AKL. So looking forward to see it!!!:goodvibes

Well, as I get more figured out, I'll get it posted.
:dance3::dance3::dance3::dance3:

[mickeystoontown]

Wow! You do have a lot to celebrate.

We, too, will be celebrating our wedding anniversary in WDW. We'll be married 25 years in August. Our daughter will be graduating her 2nd year of missionary college. Our son will be turning 12. This will be our 14th trip to Disney but still love it bunches. What better place than WDW to have a celebration.

[vladimir10]

Wow! You do have a lot to celebrate.

We, too, will be celebrating our wedding anniversary in WDW. We'll be married 25 years in August. Our daughter will be graduating her 2nd year of missionary college. Our son will be turning 12. This will be our 14th trip to Disney but still love it bunches. What better place than WDW to have a celebration.

No Place better!!!

Wow, that sounds like you guys are busy, too!!! :banana::banana:

When do you plan on going?

[mickeystoontown]

We'll be at Pop Century August 5th through the 15th. It's our first time staying in a value resort. I had pretty much decided that it would be okay since it would only be three in a room. Now, with my daughter coming along, I am getting a little nervous again. But, I'm thinking happy thoughts!

[vladimir10]

We'll be at Pop Century August 5th through the 15th. It's our first time staying in a value resort. I had pretty much decided that it would be okay since it would only be three in a room. Now, with my daughter coming along, I am getting a little nervous again. But, I'm thinking happy thoughts!

Sounds like fun!!!
:dance3:

[wdwmom0f3]

HI! I just noticed that you will be there the same time as us!! :cool1: We are so excited to be going back. My DH and I will be celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary while we are there and my Mom will also have a birthday during our stay. What better way to celebrate than a trip to Disney World!!:thumbsup2

I hope that you have a wonderful time planning!! It's half of the fun for me. ;)

[vladimir10]

HI! I just noticed that you will be there the same time as us!! :cool1: We are so excited to be going back. My DH and I will be celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary while we are there and my Mom will also have a birthday during our stay. What better way to celebrate than a trip to Disney World!!:thumbsup2

I hope that you have a wonderful time planning!! It's half of the fun for me. ;)

Wow, 20 years, thats great!!! Anything special planned?

[vladimir10]

OK, need some input from all you Disney experts here. One of the nights, we 'adults' (take that as you will...:lmao:) want to plan an adult night for dinner. Any suggestions for a good adult place? 2 of us are vegetarians (they eat fish), the other 2 eat anything. We have been to Victoria and Alberts before, don't want to spend that much, either. I am thinking Le Cellier, have seen a lot of good things about it.

As we have (tenatively) planned things for Monday and Tuesday night, probably Wednesday night. I was thinking of using Wednesday as a 'home' day, swimming and exploring the resort. So, any thoughts?
:thanks:

[Patricia721]

Boma at AKL gets good reviews & has some fish & vegetarian choices. Sanaa is the new restaurant at Kidani Village (AKL) & seems to have an interesting menu. We enjoyed LeCellier a few years back. Have fun with your trip planning!:thumbsup2

[shordiebecka]

Hey There! Have you thought about the California Grill on top of the Contemporary? Heard amazing things about it, though I've never been there. Another idea is to spend the night dining & testing various wines/beers around the world-why not have an early dinner at Le Cellier or at Tutto Italia, then explore the world in an adult type way. Or, if you don't drink, you can pop over to the boardwalk for some laughs at Jellyrolls, sports at the ESPN club, or just explore the boardwalk. you could also do Raglan Road at DTD- amazing place to eat, live Irish music..

Sorry, I had lots of ideas, lol. Can't wait to hear what you decide on!

[vladimir10]

Boma at AKL gets good reviews & has some fish & vegetarian choices. Sanaa is the new restaurant at Kidani Village (AKL) & seems to have an interesting menu. We enjoyed LeCellier a few years back. Have fun with your trip planning!:thumbsup2

Thanks for the suggestions. I asked my wife about Sanaa, but she's not much for Indian food. So, maybe LeCellier.


Hey There! Have you thought about the California Grill on top of the Contemporary? Heard amazing things about it, though I've never been there. Another idea is to spend the night dining & testing various wines/beers around the world-why not have an early dinner at Le Cellier or at Tutto Italia, then explore the world in an adult type way. Or, if you don't drink, you can pop over to the boardwalk for some laughs at Jellyrolls, sports at the ESPN club, or just explore the boardwalk. you could also do Raglan Road at DTD- amazing place to eat, live Irish music..

Sorry, I had lots of ideas, lol. Can't wait to hear what you decide on!

The Le Cellier and Epcot drinking thing has a lot of possibility. It was an idea I kinda had. When I mentioned it to my wife, she was like 'Canada?' So, we'll see. I'll let you know.

[vladimir10]

OK, here are some thoughts on other things to do.

I have a feeling my son would love character meals. I plan on doing mostly breakfast ones. The reason for that is because most of the character meals are buffets, and wife HATES :mad: buffets!!! (breakfast ones are ok, dinner, not so much)

So, after looking them over, I think these are the probable thoughts:

Breakfast: Monday - Tusker House Breakfast
Tuesday - Chef Mickey's Breakfast
Thursday - Cape May Cafe

Dinner: Here I'm not sure. At a guess, either Hollywood & Vine or O'hana's. What do you guys think? :confused3

[vladimir10]

Bump

[vladimir10]

So, our friends are coming over tonight for dinner and to discuss flight plans and ADR stuff. :cool1: More planning!!! I've been in stand by mode for now. It's kinda sucky that I really can't do anything until June 21st (90 days).

On a plus note, I started using http://www.mousemanager.com. Wonderful program, really nice way to keep track of information about your trip!!!:thumbsup2:thumbsup2:thumbsup2

[vladimir10]

Well, after discussing it with our friends, we have decided not to do the Sunset Safari. It's just too expensive. So, I think we'll just have an adult dinner at Jiko and enjoy the resort in the evening. Maybe head over to a resort for the fireworks or get into EMH somewhere. See how it goes.

On the good side, it looks like we'll book the flights this weekend. Probably through US Air, they seemed the best prices for the best times. When flying down, I like to leave in the morning (if I could get the 6 Am one, I would, not sure Wife is up for it :confused3) and coming back early afternoon flight time, but we'll see.

Well, off to play a game with son. Saturday morning, and he's up at 6 AM!!!
:scared1::scared1::scared1:

[wdwmom0f3]

Wow, 20 years, thats great!!! Anything special planned?

Thank you!! Yes, I am going to get a cake for one of our ADR's. I have been thinking about having it delivered at 1900 Park Fare from the beginning. The kids will be with us so it will be fun for them too.

My Mom is also coming for a few days, one of which will be her birthday so I'll pick up a cake or something special for her to have in her room when she returns from the park on her birthday. I thought that would be fun for her. :goodvibes I am hoping that the hotel will do this without a problem. :worship:

Your plans sound great so far. It's just so much fun planning!! :goodvibes

[Patricia721]

I'm pretty sure there's a sunrise safari also that you might want to look into. AKL is a beautiful resort - I think you'll enjoy exploring it!

[vladimir10]

Thank you!! Yes, I am going to get a cake for one of our ADR's. I have been thinking about having it delivered at 1900 Park Fare from the beginning. The kids will be with us so it will be fun for them too.

My Mom is also coming for a few days, one of which will be her birthday so I'll pick up a cake or something special for her to have in her room when she returns from the park on her birthday. I thought that would be fun for her. :goodvibes I am hoping that the hotel will do this without a problem. :worship:

Your plans sound great so far. It's just so much fun planning!! :goodvibes

That sounds like a lot of fun. I have toyed with the idea of a cake or 2, depending on how things go.

I am enjoying planning a lot, too, but I have to be careful, and not overplan, my wife gets on my case...
:rolleyes1

[vladimir10]

I'm pretty sure there's a sunrise safari also that you might want to look into. AKL is a beautiful resort - I think you'll enjoy exploring it!

Don't you have to be at Club Level to do that?

[vladimir10]

Well, we booked our flights last night!

We are scheduled to land at MCO at 11 AM, Sept 19th! So, I am guessing we'll be at AKL/AKV around 12:30 or 1 PM, check in, maybe grab lunch at Boma, hope our room is ready, then either a park or DTD for dinner. We'll see, have to talk it over with the gang. :woohoo:

Hard part is the morning we leave. The flight leaves at 6:15 AM!!!:scared1::scared1::scared1::scared1::scared1:

There was one later (8:15), but there were a few things about it we didn't like:
1: $30 more per person (not a killer, but....more Disney stuff for us!!!:banana:)

2: Get to MCO at 2:30 PM, so arrival at AKL/AKV would be 4 to 4:30, not good...:sad1:

3: A 2.5 hour layover at Charlotte with a 4 year old...:scared1::scared1::scared1:

Now, nothing against Charlotte airport, I am sure it's a fine place, but I am fairly sure it would be a rough time with the boy!!!

So, we got a cheap (enter 'dump' here) hotel near the airport for the night before, so it'll be easier.

So, another step in the plan!

I can almost smell that hot, muggy Florida air right now...
:dance3:

[Patricia721]

Don't you have to be at Club Level to do that?

Yup, you're right -sorry!!:goodvibes

[vladimir10]

Yup, you're right -sorry!!:goodvibes

Not a problem. Personally, I would rather do the Sunrise Safari, but my wife doesn't mornings well (:rolleyes1), so even if we could do it, probably wouldn't...:sad2:

Oh, well, actually, came up with another activity, thinking about doing one of the lake fireworks show. I noticed the Magical Fireworks Voyage has changed to Pirates and Pals Fireworks Voyage. That sounds like fun, and my son would probably love it. Anybody done the old version? I'll have to do a search...
:dance3:

On the trip info side, I found a new website - tripit.com!!! Seems to be a great free website, keeps track of all trip info, and has a free iPhone app. I am going to give a try, so I have all my numbers and all that fun stuff!!

Also downloaded several iPhone apps for Disney World. They look good, I'll so enjoy using them once we get there.

[vladimir10]

I just realized....













:confused3












5 Months to go TODAY!!!!!!!
:woohoo::woohoo::dancer::dancer::dancer:party:part y:party::jumping1::jumping1::jumping1::rainbow::ra inbow::rainbow::jumping2::jumping2::jumping2:

[vladimir10]

So, with the new Pirate's League available, I have another thing to add in!! Actually, it looks really cool, I think my son will love this!!!

So, I need some ideas about a few ADR for dinner. I think we'll be going to Le Cellier one night, so maybe 2 more. I am under orders :rolleyes1 to not 'over plan' (whatever that is :lmao:), so I figure 3-4 dinner ADRs are good. So, other suggestions?

[vladimir10]

OK, I know, it's been a while, but, really, until the ADR 90 day mark, not much to say...

1 week from now, I'll be in Maine on vaca. Bad news, the next day (sunday, Fathers day) I gotta get up God-awful early to make my ADRs. :confused3

So, today, I have trying to define our plans. Don't know if anyone is going to follow this, but here our my thoughts/attempts at my planning, and what I am going to try and get for ADRs:

Sat, Sept 19th - Land at MCO around 11AM, so I figure we make AKL around 1-1:30 PM, eat some lunch at Mara, get in our room, and then head to DTD, eat dinner at EOS and shop. Hit bed a little early, up early next day!

Sun, Sept 20th - Try to get to breakfast early at Boma, but no set time. Plan on going over to DHS for the day, and attend Fantasmic that night. No dinner plans that day, thinking on getting CS food to take into the Fantasmic arena.

Mon, Sept 21 - OK, first ADR - Chef Mickeys 7:30 AM (all my times are mostly flexible, so I will play with them as I have to). Figure from there, take the Tram over to MK, and spend the day there. At some point (gotta get a time) have our son do the Pirate League makeover. Then, back to the Contemporary at 5:00 PM, for an ADR at The Wave. Then, my wife, son, and myself are going to do the Pirate and Pals Fireworks Cruise at 9PM.

Tues, Sept 22 - Another character breakfast, Cape May at the Beach Club Resort, at 7:30 AM. Then, of to Epcot for the day. No dinner plans, 'cause we are going to go to MNSSHP at MK at 7PM.

Wed, Sept 23 - Rest day, stick around AKL (or maybe a water park) and then have our son go to Simba's Cubhouse (at 4:30 PM) while we go to Le Cellier at 6:00 PM, and take advantage of Epcots EMH!

Thur, Sep 24 - AK day - Plan on going to breakfast at Donald's Breakfast Safari (8:00 AM) and then seeing AK for the day. For the evening, have son (again) go into Simba's Cubhouse and we are doing Jikos at 6:00 PM.

Fri, Sep 25 - Plan on getting breakfast at Kona Cafe at the Poly (Can you say Tonga Toast?), then, no plans. I figure we will play it by ear, maybe one of the water parks, or our favorite park from the week, just make it up as we go along.

Sat, Sept 26 - :scared: Plane leave MCO 11:45 AM, so we'll get some breakfast (prob. Boma) and call it a trip! :eek:

So, there it is. Our main point is to have fun. Tell me what you think.

Have a nice day!

[vladimir10]

OK, so a small change:

Change Monday's breakfast from Chef Mickeys to Crystal Palace at MK

Change Tuesday's breakfast from Cape May to Chef Mickeys!

I was having trouble finding an easy way to get to Beach Club without getting a cab, and didn't really want to do that, didn't want to rely on there being a booster seat for my son.

Besides, this way, we get to MK early and my son will enjoy eating breakfast with Winnie and the gang!!

[mickeystoontown]

Goodness gracious! I just realized that I was way behind in your updates. I have an excuse though.....I started a trip report of my own. We surprised our son with a trip last August and I thought some of my disers would like to read all about it. You should come over for a read. It'll help you pass your last few days until your vacation.

[koima]

We'll be there at the same time as you with our four year old boy, and are going to be at DHS and Epcot on the same days. Maybe we'll see you! Looks like you have a fun trip planned.

[vladimir10]

Well, here is what I got, not exactly what we wanted, but close...

09/19 - no set plans, we will probably get to AKV around 1 or so (I hope), and get lunch at Mara, get our rooms, and head over to DTD, eat at EOS at some point...

09/20 - Boma 7:30 for breakfast, then DHS for the day, probably take a break in the afternoon, then back to DHS for Fantasmic

09/21 - Crystal Palace 8:20 for breakfast, then MK for the day, have a ADR for the Wave at 5:45 PM (trying to decide if we want to keep that one), the check out the fireworks at MK that night

09/22 - Chef Mickeys 7:30 AM for breakfast, then Epcot for the day, afternoon break, the MNSSHP that night (really excited about that one, already bought the tickets)

09/23 - Donald's Breakfast Safari 8:30 AM for breakfast, then spend the day at Animal Kingdom, take a break at AKV, then take my son to Simba's Cubhouse, and the rest of us are planning on going to Epcot for EMH and an ADR at San Angel Inn at 8:45 PM (tryed to get Le Cellier, but, failed...)

09/24 - Rest Day, sleep in, check out AKV/AKL, swim in pool, maybe go to a water park, who knows, then, again, take my son to Simba's Cubhouse, and the adults are checking out Jiko's at 5:45 PM

09/25 - Kona Cafe 8:05 AM for Tonga Toast, then don't know, no plans, see what everyone wants to do, maybe water park, make it up as we go along.

As you can see, this is different than our original plans. Had to change some to get the Fantasmic night, and then, Disney Dining got the wrong date for a couple of ADRs, and I had to make some other changes.

Finally got the online ADR system working, so that worked (I hope) well.

Well, we'll see how it goes. I called and get the reservation for my son's visit to Simba's Cubhouse, and ordered the MNSSHP tickets (we all voted, going rain or shine, well, I guess it would be Rain or Dark!)

So, what do you think?
:surfweb:

[vladimir10]

Well, I got it!

Le Cellier!

I checked the online ADR system everyday (sometimes twice a day) and finally got what I wanted!

Wednesday, Sept. 23rd Le Cellier 5:05 PM

Cancelled the San Angel Inn Reservation.

So happy!

[Patricia721]

Yeah! good for you!

[vladimir10]

Well, it's official - we are going to Disney World!

Got our DME booklet today!!
:banana::banana::banana:

http://i648.photobucket.com/albums/uu207/vladimir10ct/MEbooklet1.jpg

Now, with only 31 days to go, time to start packing!
:scared1:

[vladimir10]

Well, we're down to the 30 day mark. Going to meet with our friends this Friday night for dinner and give them their DME tags and vouchers. Gotta figure out where to go, though. I now they are going to make me decide, so not sure if I want to be selfish or not. We'll see, I guess.

Started creating a packing list the other day, in Excel. Had a section for
Me, wife, son, misc, carry on, wearing, and things to discuss with wife, to see if we really want to bring with us. Haven't been able to talk to her about it, she's too stressed this week to do it, so hopefully this weekend or next week, don't want to take too long, though...

Well, back to playing with my son, so toodles!

[crocko]

Well, here is what I got, not exactly what we wanted, but close...

09/19 - no set plans, we will probably get to AKV around 1 or so (I hope), and get lunch at Mara, get our rooms, and head over to DTD, eat at EOS at some point...

09/20 - Boma 7:30 for breakfast, then DHS for the day, probably take a break in the afternoon, then back to DHS for Fantasmic

09/21 - Crystal Palace 8:20 for breakfast, then MK for the day, have a ADR for the Wave at 5:45 PM (trying to decide if we want to keep that one), the check out the fireworks at MK that night

09/22 - Chef Mickeys 7:30 AM for breakfast, then Epcot for the day, afternoon break, the MNSSHP that night (really excited about that one, already bought the tickets)

09/23 - Donald's Breakfast Safari 8:30 AM for breakfast, then spend the day at Animal Kingdom, take a break at AKV, then take my son to Simba's Cubhouse, and the rest of us are planning on going to Epcot for EMH and an ADR at San Angel Inn at 8:45 PM (tryed to get Le Cellier, but, failed...)

09/24 - Rest Day, sleep in, check out AKV/AKL, swim in pool, maybe go to a water park, who knows, then, again, take my son to Simba's Cubhouse, and the adults are checking out Jiko's at 5:45 PM

09/25 - Kona Cafe 8:05 AM for Tonga Toast, then don't know, no plans, see what everyone wants to do, maybe water park, make it up as we go along.

As you can see, this is different than our original plans. Had to change some to get the Fantasmic night, and then, Disney Dining got the wrong date for a couple of ADRs, and I had to make some other changes.

Finally got the online ADR system working, so that worked (I hope) well.

Well, we'll see how it goes. I called and get the reservation for my son's visit to Simba's Cubhouse, and ordered the MNSSHP tickets (we all voted, going rain or shine, well, I guess it would be Rain or Dark!)

So, what do you think?
:surfweb:


Hey there! Just found your PTR.

My family will be at Kidani Village from Sept 17th thru Sept 26th :thumbsup2

Looking at your schedule I see a couple similarities.
On the 22nd, we will be at Epcot that day as well.
On the 25th, my sister and parents are having an early breakfast at Kona Cafe.
Plus...we'll be at AKL throughout our stay at random times as well.

Do you have any pics of your family to post.....that way I'll recognize you if we cross paths?

My fam's pics can be found in my PTR (in sig)

Yay -- today means 1 month away for you!!

[vladimir10]

Hey there! Just found your PTR.

My family will be at Kidani Village from Sept 17th thru Sept 26th :thumbsup2

Looking at your schedule I see a couple similarities.
On the 22nd, we will be at Epcot that day as well.
On the 25th, my sister and parents are having an early breakfast at Kona Cafe.
Plus...we'll be at AKL throughout our stay at random times as well.

Do you have any pics of your family to post.....that way I'll recognize you if we cross paths?

My fam's pics can be found in my PTR (in sig)

Yay -- today means 1 month away for you!!

COOL, I'll have to check out your PTR!

You'll have to let me know how Kidani is. We purchased our DVC point resale, and closed in April, so I got a 2 BDR in Jambo (suprised at the 6 month mark), but they didn't have any available in Kidani. I plan on going over and checking it out, though, while we are there.

Are you guys doing the MNSSHP while you are there?

here is a pic from June in Maine:

http://i648.photobucket.com/albums/uu207/vladimir10ct/familyphotobucket.jpg

I'll keep my eyes out for you guys there!

under the 1 month mark, it's so exciting!!!
:banana::banana::banana:[/IMG]

[vladimir10]

Well, not sure if there are any people following this, but I guess I should pt a few new things down here.

After I got our ME packet, I wanted to get with our 2 friends to give them their ME vouchers and luggage tags. So, as Friday was my birthday (won't say which one, but it was a big one! :scared1: ) I wanted to go out to dinner at a sushi place. I was one to swear I would never eat sushi, but, I must admit, I am a converter!
I have fallen in love with sushi!
:confused3
So, found a new place to go in downtown Syracuse, called Sakana-Ya. And, wow, was it good!
It has a conveyor belt that takes all the food around the bar, and you just pick what you want. The plates are colored, and depending on the color, is how much each plate is. We ate a LOT (probably too much) and it was very reasonable, $100 for the 4 of us!
Here is a couple of pics of the food:
http://i648.photobucket.com/albums/uu207/vladimir10ct/IMG_0765.jpg
http://i648.photobucket.com/albums/uu207/vladimir10ct/IMG_0766.jpg

Also, the staff and owners there are fantastic. I always ask for a fork, 'cause all I can do with chopsticks is itch my back. :laughing:
So, they gave me a fork, and also a cheater pair of chopsticks, without me asking!

(continued in next post...)

[vladimir10]

Then, they overheard my wife and friends talking about it being my for. err, sorry, my birthday, and they started picking on me a little, and wouldn't let me leave. Now, I hate those darned places that make a big deal about b-days, and do all that singing, so I was nervous. So, this is what they brought me, without asking for it or expecting, and they didn't sing (thank goodness):
http://i648.photobucket.com/albums/uu207/vladimir10ct/IMG_0769.jpg
:thumbsup2

They did this with no warning and only in a few minutes! It was very nice and I loved it!

So, lets see.

I am still having back and neck pain problems. I see a nuero-surgeon Sept 1st, hoping he can give me some kind of information about what is wrong.

Haven't really worked this year. Did a few weeks of part time, but it didn't last long.

Been putting things on eBay to try and make some Disney money. Been going good, so far.
:banana::banana:

Created a packing list in excel so we don't forget anything. Also convinced the wife we should order some water delivered to AKV so we can some water to drink and take to park with us. Looks like we will go trough gardengrocer.com, they look like they have all we need there, and it's easy to get. I prefer to do online stuff, not big on calling people...:surfweb:

So, for the MNSSHP, I was pretty much resigned to just wearing some kinda halloween t-shirt and have my son dress up, and us adults wouldn't. Well, Friday night after dinner, as usual, we went to a coffee house to have coffee and chat for a while. All of a sudden, they (my wife and 2 friends) start discussing what we are going to dress up as!
:rolleyes2
Didn't see that one coming!

So, I think, after much discussion, we may try to dress up as some of the characters from the Disney Hercules movie. We figure most of it would be toga like clothes, so it would be kinda cool. I want to be Zeus, as I have a beard an all, but we'll see. My son would probably be Hercules (albiet a small young one). I think we talked about getting the movie to watch next week. We'll see...

As for Disney, like I said, I created my packing list. Also double checked all my ADRs online, made sure they were all still there. Couple of weeks ago, US Airways made some slight changes to our flights! :headache:
Luckily, they weren't big changes, though 3 of the 4 flight numbers changed, so I called DVC MS and got them to update it. Easy!

Well, all for the time being. I am getting anxious, and want time to fly. In 4 weeks, we'll be at DHS, having fun!
:banana::banana::banana::banana:

So, Have a nice day!

[vladimir10]

Well, I just found out something very interesting - the same time we are going, a couple of our friends from Ithaca are going too!
:rotfl:

Funny how things work like that!

I don't have any details yet, but will find out their plans and see if we can get together!

:surfweb:

[aprilisis]

I'm new to your ptr, but I am following along now. popcorn::
Happy Birthday & good luck with your appointment on the 1st!
I think I will be arriving in WDW 2 days after you go home- and I'm staying at AKL, too! You have a lot of good ADR's booked & it sounds like you will have a great time. You definitely have to let us know what you all decide to dress up as for the Halloween Party, too. I still haven't a clue what we are going to dress up as for the party. If I wait any longer, we may end up not getting costumes at all!!!
Well, now that I have rambled on a bit too much- I just wanted to say I am enjoying your ptr & will be looking forward to a tr when you get home.

[vladimir10]

I'm new to your ptr, but I am following along now. popcorn::
Happy Birthday & good luck with your appointment on the 1st!
I think I will be arriving in WDW 2 days after you go home- and I'm staying at AKL, too! You have a lot of good ADR's booked & it sounds like you will have a great time. You definitely have to let us know what you all decide to dress up as for the Halloween Party, too. I still haven't a clue what we are going to dress up as for the party. If I wait any longer, we may end up not getting costumes at all!!!
Well, now that I have rambled on a bit too much- I just wanted to say I am enjoying your ptr & will be looking forward to a tr when you get home.

Thanks for joining!
:thumbsup2

I subscribed to you PTR, and will go check it out later today!

I plan on adding a couple of things in a little bit today, added something and a costume update!

Thanks for the wishes. I am really hoping the neurosurgeon can give me some information on what is wrong. We'll see.

Cant wait to read your PTR.
:surfweb:

[vladimir10]

Well, things are progressing...
After reading on Disboards that the Dessert Party was extended through October, I showed my wife a couple of reviews I found - http://www.disunplugged.com/2009/06/24/disney-debuts-magic-kingdom-wishes-dessert-party/ and http://allears.net/tp/mk/dessertparty1.html

Well, it took little convincing to get her to want to do it...
:rotfl:
Checked with my friends to make sure they wanted to do it, and...

Sept 21st, we are doing the Magic Kingdom Dessert Party and Wishes!
:cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1:

I am really happy about this. I was disappointed that we were going to miss it. I didn't even mention it to my wife, so it was a really nice suprise.


On the costume front, I think we have decided on Greek Gods theme. My wife is looking into Medusa (Yes, I know, not a Greek God, but it goes with the theme...), my son would be Hercules, Kev is going to be either Hades or Poseidon, Em is setting up to be Persephone, and I am going to Zeus.

I just gotta get my costume. I may end up making it from frabric, it's hard to get a robe/toga I like, so we'll see.

Well, all for know.

Down to 21 days!!!
:scared1::scared1::scared1::scared1:

Starting to get a little wired about it. Want to pack, in my geekish way. Can't, but want to...

[aprilisis]

That dessert party looks SOOOOOO good!!!!!
I am hoping you guys take lots of photos in the costumes, too- that will make for a really fun night. In 2002, I went with my bf (ex now) as Morticia & Gomez Addams. We got so many fun comments from people! You will have a blast.

[vladimir10]

That dessert party looks SOOOOOO good!!!!!
I am hoping you guys take lots of photos in the costumes, too- that will make for a really fun night. In 2002, I went with my bf (ex now) as Morticia & Gomez Addams. We got so many fun comments from people! You will have a blast.

Thanks. I hope too. I plan on taking a lot of pics, but we'll see.

I love Halloween, but it seems like every year I pick a costume idea, and it seems easy, but it turns out to be much more complicated than it should be!
:confused3


Oh, well, I'll get it.

[vladimir10]

Good Morning, all. Yesterday I was supposed to have my neurosurgeon appt, but it got postponed to today because he had to do emergency surgery and wouldn't make my time. So, 11:30 today...
:confused3

We'll see how it goes. Hopefully something will come of it.

Down to 16 days until we fly. Getting excited. We bought our costumes online, just waiting for them to get here and make sure they fit...
:scared1:
I hate buying clothes without trying them on, I wear odd sizes sometimes.
Speaking of that, after reading a thread here (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2270984&highlight=waterpark) my wife stopped at out local Dick's to find me a surf shirt. All they had left were kid's (she thought about it and our son a nice one, so was a fruitful trip).
So, I started looking online for them. Wrong time of the year, I guess. It proved to be difficult to find a XXL or 2XL in anything that didn't cost a small fortune!
:scared1:
But, I did finally find one, and got it ordered. Should be here next week, and hopefully it'll fit. I'll be all set.
My wife ordered some other clothing things as well, for her costume and for swimming. Hopefully those items will go well.

Now, it's just a waiting game.....I don't play this game well....
:surfweb:

[Raecheal]

I"m here... I"m here... I wish we could have done the MK dessert party...Your plans sounds great...

[vladimir10]

I"m here... I"m here... I wish we could have done the MK dessert party...Your plans sounds great...

Thanks for joining Raecheal!

Not much to add at the moment. I have been slowly getting some items packed, items we don't need until we go.

Gotta put the finishing touches on our costumes. I need to make my Lightning Bolt (for Zeus). We have my son's Hercules costume, but the Chest Armor/Cape that goes over his head won't fit (my son has a big head...like some relative of his....:rolleyes1) so my wife is going to modify it somehow. My wife's costume is kinda all together, but she is having some issues with he under garments, so hopefully that will be resolved tomorrow.

This weekend we are going to try to get the rest of our stuff out of our Oneida house. It is pretty much sold. The Appraisal and Inspection are done (I guess) so, gotta clean out the garage and the house.

Bad part is, I can't help. The neurosurgeon hasn't got back to me about a MRI appt. yet, and I am not comfortable with doing much.

I did some cleaning around the house today, and I am in EXTREME pain!

So, 8 days to go, and I am so excited! I have been reading the crowds are down, so keeping fingers crossed. We'll see...

Thanks for reading!
:thumbsup2:thumbsup2:thumbsup2

[aprilisis]

Keep us posted on what the neurosurgeon says. How are you feeling today? You MUST be getting excited with only a week to go!! I can't wait to see the photos of you guys in costume. :)

[vladimir10]

Keep us posted on what the neurosurgeon says. How are you feeling today? You MUST be getting excited with only a week to go!! I can't wait to see the photos of you guys in costume. :)

I will. Today is painful so far. I probably overdid it yesterday, I just get bored and sometime have to do some cleaning and stuff. Oh well.

Very excited! This last week is going to be SSSSOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO long!!!
:eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek: :eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek:

[vladimir10]

OK, well, I just thought of something. Not WDW related, but how my Tuesday went. Not sure if I have mentioned this, but I have something called CVID (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_variable_immunodeficiency). (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_variable_immunodeficiency)

Every other month, I have to get 2 days of IVIG treatment. Each treatment takes about 4-5 hours, and I usually end up being totally exhausted. Not sure why, but there it is.

So, this last Tuesday was my infusion (I try to aim my vacations to be soon after them, so my IG levels are high). Well, Tuesday was also my sons first day at Kindergarten. So, I was a bit nervous and worried, my little guy was in for a big day. So, trying to get him ready for that.

With my other problem, I haven't been sleeping well (mayber 2-4 a night), so been really tired. So, that's not good.

Let's see.... well, bus supposed to be there at 8:30 ish. So, 8:25, son and I go out to wait. Well, 8:30 comes and goes, 8:40, 8:50, nothing (I forgot to mention, my wife left her work computer at home, and I was going to drop it off at her work before my treatment, but I had to leave ASAP after my son was on bus). Well, now, I didn't have time to drop her laptop off. So, called her about that (didn't go well...:confused3).

Now, finally, about 9, I see the bus (it is maybe 1 down the road). My son says, I have to go to the bathroom, can't wait!
:scared1::scared1::scared1:

OK, run, run, pee, run...

Dog escapes out the front door!!!!!!
:headache::headache::headache::headache::headache:
And procedes to run right to the busy road!!!!
:scared1::eek::scared1::eek::scared1::eek::scared1 ::eek:

I was completely scared. All I could see was the dog getting hit by car!

Luckily, she ran next door, and neighbor (who was waiting with her child for bus) and ran to her.

So, now in more pain (and my son is starting to cry) I get him on board (kinda rushed, but on), he calms down, and then I run next door to get dog so she can get her son on board (he looked like maybe 5th grade, so he was all calm and stuff).

Well, I can't run on a good day. And Tuesday wasn't a good day...
Also, my lung capicity is somewhat dimishned (I have granulomas in my lungs, another problem due to my CVID), so breathing is not easy...

So, run over, get the dog, drag her back, collapse in a pile 'cause I can't breathe, can't collapse long because I gotta get to my treatment appt.

So, I head out, and get stuck behind every STINKING slow Sunday driver between home and Syracuse!
:headache::mad::headache::mad::headache::mad:
Well, I get almost there, get off the highway, and wouldn't you guess, traffic on main road to get to treatment center is backed up!!!!

I hate being late, it is my biggest pet peeve, I am usually 15-20 minutes early to most things, work, appts, whatever. So, I was just done. I so wanted to go home!

:confused3

So, I called office, told them gonna be late, then moved on. I just got there right at 10 (my appt time) and got it done.

Overall, Tuesday just sucked!
:sad2:

OK, rant over, sorry.

Back to good parts -

7 days 'til WDW!!!!!

[Patricia721]

Just hang on for 7 more days!! :goodvibes Please let us know what you think of the MK dessert party. I'd love to do it - we're going 11/08 -14. I think the last date for the party is 10/31. I wish they'd extend it just a few more days!

Take it easy today! Oh, so glad to hear your dog is OK too - that was pretty scary.

[vladimir10]

Just hang on for 7 more days!! :goodvibes Please let us know what you think of the MK dessert party. I'd love to do it - we're going 11/08 -14. I think the last date for the party is 10/31. I wish they'd extend it just a few more days!

Take it easy today! Oh, so glad to hear your dog is OK too - that was pretty scary.

I'm hanging high right now! Very excited, down to 7 days!!!
Hard to believe, summer FLEW by...:scared1:
Most of the threads on the dessert party have been positive, and some of the negative have been more people issues than actual party issues. I'll let you know how it goes. They may extend it, who knows, I think it depends on how popular it will be. It seems to be quite popular, selling out and such.

Yes, so glad dog was OK, she really scared me. She can quite sneaky. That was the second time she did that to me, so I'll have to keep a better eye on her...
:rolleyes1

[vladimir10]

Well, I had given up on getting the Photo Pass CD because of all the issues and problems we have had going on, but tonight, my wife, suprisingly, said go for it and order it!
:scared1:
So, I did, before she changes her mind again....
:rolleyes1
Just kidding.

Well, no, actually, only part of it. I did order it....

So, Photo Pass pre-ordered, and there will be lots of pics from that (I hope). I will be getting the one in front of HM and the carriage...

Have a good night, all!

[vladimir10]

Down to 3 days!

Gettin' pretty excited, even though I am in pain. We had to finish moving the rest of our stuff out of the house (It is due to close Oct. 21st, but if we get it cleaned out and they get the paperwork done, we can close early), and even though I wasn't allowed to do to much (I sneaked in what I could, but I found some things too heavy to do), I did enough to be hurting.

So, yesterday was a nothing day. I did little, got a small nap.

Still hurt today, though.

So, today, I started getting things into the luggage. Got all of my clothes, as well as my sons clothes. Got a couple of my wife's things, and a couple of other things.

I checked our ADRs (again, I am a bit anal about them) and they are all still good. Checked the flight info, that's all good.

So, I an antsy, want to do more, but am stuck until later....

:headache:

So, I just wait.

Gotta go to town soon, take care of couple of things, then be back to get my son off bus. Tomorrow will be long day. Gotta drive to Rochester to see my immunologist, see how things are going. It's a 2 hr drive, one way, so I will be a tired boy tomorrow night.

Oh, well, by Saturday night, it'll be all good!!!!
:cool1::cool1::cool1:

[manntra]

Hi there! You are so close!! :thumbsup2 I came over from a different PTR (maybe Raechel's??) and noticed you possibly are from near Syracuse? I am in Endicott, near Binghamton.
My niece and I are going Oct4-9th and staying at Kidani. You will love AKV and your son will be so excited to see the animals. :love:
All of your planning will be so worth it. I really think it pays off.
What iphone apps do you have for Disney?
I have the WDW Dining...very cool...have all of my ADR's in there
WDW Maps....I don't know why b/c I don't even use any maps I guess I just thought it was fun! :rotfl:
Wait times....I hear a lot that it is not very accurate but again only .99 or maybe it was free
Mouse Memo.....didn't really use this...put my airline info in but that was about it.
WDW Trivia..fun but repetitive

Take care!!
Tracy

[vladimir10]

Hi there! You are so close!! :thumbsup2 I came over from a different PTR (maybe Raechel's??) and noticed you possibly are from near Syracuse? I am in Endicott, near Binghamton.
My niece and I are going Oct4-9th and staying at Kidani. You will love AKV and your son will be so excited to see the animals. :love:
All of your planning will be so worth it. I really think it pays off.
What iphone apps do you have for Disney?
I have the WDW Dining...very cool...have all of my ADR's in there
WDW Maps....I don't know why b/c I don't even use any maps I guess I just thought it was fun! :rotfl:
Wait times....I hear a lot that it is not very accurate but again only .99 or maybe it was free
Mouse Memo.....didn't really use this...put my airline info in but that was about it.
WDW Trivia..fun but repetitive

Take care!!
Tracy

Hi, Tracy. Thanks for checking it out! :thumbsup2

Yep, I live near Syracuse. I know Endicott well, grew up in Athens, PA and Waverly, NY. Had a friend that lived in Endicott, and I lived in Owego for a while.

I have, let's see, WDW Dining, all the Maps, WDW Wait Times, a link to WDW Mobile, a link to Disboards, and (non-disney, but a good one) TripIt (I have all my info in Tripit, like ADR confirmations, dates, etc.)

We'll have a blast, I' sure. I just wish it would get here quicker, and yet not, cause I have a few things yet to go.

I am actually proud of myself, I remembered to have our mail held while we are gone. I never remember to do that!
:rotfl2:

Do you have a PTR going?

[manntra]

It's a small world after all...:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:
Are you flying out of Syracuse? I always check there but end up flying out of Binghamton so I don't have to park the car or have someone take us up there. I like Northwest because of the layover in Detroit....we get to eat at Fuddruckers! :lmao:

I know what you mean about wanting it to be here....don't worry it will before you know it!

Not doing a PTR but I do appreciate those of you that do! :thumbsup2

Tracy

[vladimir10]

It's a small world after all...:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:
Are you flying out of Syracuse? I always check there but end up flying out of Binghamton so I don't have to park the car or have someone take us up there. I like Northwest because of the layover in Detroit....we get to eat at Fuddruckers! :lmao:

I know what you mean about wanting it to be here....don't worry it will before you know it!

Not doing a PTR but I do appreciate those of you that do! :thumbsup2

Tracy
Yes, we are flying out of Syracuse on US Airways. Generally we try to go with Jet Blue, but US Airways was cheaper this time (though the flight leaves at 6:15 AM). We have a lay over in DC down and back. Never been there, but we aren't there long, so no big deal.

Are you going to any of the MNSSHPs?

[manntra]

Yes we are going to MNSSHP (my first) on October 6th. I usually like an early flight on the way down to get there just as soon as I can! :thumbsup2

[vladimir10]

Yes we are going to MNSSHP (my first) on October 6th. I usually like an early flight on the way down to get there just as soon as I can! :thumbsup2

The hard part about the early flight is getting my wife and son up at like 3:30-3:45 AM
:scared1:
I'll be good, but my wife?????

We'll see.

After we get there, it'll be all good!!!

[aprilisis]

Since I may not be able to get online tomorrow, I wanted to say- Have a GREAT time!

[vladimir10]

Since I may not be able to get online tomorrow, I wanted to say- Have a GREAT time!

Thanks! I hope Isis is better soon!!:hug:

[vladimir10]

So, it's down to the wire...
:scared1:

Almost finished packing. I was working on getting it mostly done today, working off my packing list....

had a plastic bin that held several of the non-clothing items...

I had some cahs in this bin (birthday money I wanted to take to DW)...

cleaned out the bin, no cash....

:eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek:

Now, I am completely freaked out. I can't find it! I know it was there last Friday night, but that's about it.

Hoping when my wife gets home she can help me find it. This is just wrong!

One thing left to finish on my costume, my lightning bolt. Thne do some laundry (so my wife has certain things she has few of...) and then we are all good!!!

Dang, it's almost here!!!!!


:cool1::cool1::cool1:

I may or may not update from DW. We haven't decided if we are taking a computer. If not, I think I can update from my phone, without pics, but it'll be something until we get home!

Have a nice day!

[manntra]

HAVE A GREAT TRIP!!!!!!!!!:yay::yay::yay:

[vladimir10]

HAVE A GREAT TRIP!!!!!!!!!:yay::yay::yay:

Thanks!!!

Yours is almost here.....
:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

[vladimir10]

Well, trying to finish things up here before we go.

Had to take the dog to the kennel - check.

Stop at store (again, will I ever remember all the stuff I need the first time?) - check.

Stopped at post office to drop off package and check on my incoming package - check. Hopefully, the lady at the post office will get my package (my new water shoes for disney) in and call me today...

So, still have to finish a little packing, finish my lightning bolt for my costume, wait for my son to get home from school, and wait for wife to get home. Then, off to dinner and then to our (cheap) hotel. Try to get to bed early, get some sleep (yeah, right, like that's gonna happen...) and get up WAY too early (like 330 am) to get to airport. Flight leaves at 6:15 am, so I think we can get there at 430, should be OK.

Gotta go clean out my truck. I transported my garbage cans from our old house to our camp, and apparently there was some oil in one of them.. Well, of course, it leaked out into my truck, and is all over the carpet.

Some days...

So, try to clean that up.

Go check my DVC reservation again, and my ADRs, make sure all good.

Check them against my Tripit stuff, make sure all the same.

Then, I can relax a little and be ready.

YEAH!!!!!!

Mickey Mouse, here we come!!!!
:cool1::cool1::cool1::banana::banana::banana:

[Patricia721]

Have a wonderful vacation! Looking forward to your trip report & pix!:goodvibes

[vladimir10]

Have a wonderful vacation! Looking forward to your trip report & pix!:goodvibes

Thanks, Patty! Looking forward to it!!!

[vladimir10]

Well, some more things...

crap, got distracted, forgot what i was doing...

well, regardless, i think i got everything. my package with my new water didn't get here (I'm ticked about that), but that's OK.

Well, wife is on the way, as soon as she gets here, we are gone, going to get dinner, then to hotel and early bed.

Have fun, all, I'll update as I can!!!!

[brookelizabeth]

Stop at store (again, will I ever remember all the stuff I need the first time?) - check.



It's part of the adventure. 830 trips to Target! :laughing: I'm so with ya on that one.

You are probably already in Orlando being it's 8:00 am there, possibly on the ME, or arriving at AKV. :cloud9:

HAVE A WONDERFUL TRIP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[vladimir10]

It's part of the adventure. 830 trips to Target! :laughing: I'm so with ya on that one.

You are probably already in Orlando being it's 8:00 am there, possibly on the ME, or arriving at AKV. :cloud9:

HAVE A WONDERFUL TRIP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Not there yet, it's 8 am here and we r at Reagan Airport in DC waiting to board. Supposed to land around 11 am. Hoping to get there soon.

[manntra]

:yay::yay::yay: Almost there!! So excited for you!!

[vladimir10]

We r on the ME bus, waiting to go. Doors r closing, so should any minute!

[manntra]

:woohoo: Say hello to my AKV "home" for me! I can almost smell the lobby! Mmmmmmm

[vladimir10]

Well, we're here.

:cool1::cool1::cool1:
:lovestruc:lovestruc:lovestruc:lovestruc

I am totally in love with this place!!!

AKV ROCKS!!!!!

Love the lobby, cast members are fantastic so far, 2 bdr lockoff is awesome, room 5525/5523, wonderful view. Have seen 5 animals since 430 PM (it's about 730).

It's pretty hot and muggy today. We went down to DTD, ate at....

Hmmm, maybe I should creat a live report. LEt's see, I'll go do that and post link here!

Ha, guess the PTR is over, huh!

[vladimir10]

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2288549

:thumbsup2