Tasty Planning Time with ZeBrook! A 2 for 1 PTR - 12/24 - All our bags are packed [Archive] - Page 6 - The DIS Discussion Forums

brookelizabeth

11-04-2009, 11:58 PM

:lmao: Apple pie!!:lmao: Very cute....love it!!! And Henry looked so cute in his race car driver outfit, that's what my big boys were, too! Loved seeing him with the games, he looked like he was having a good time and what a smart boy picking out his candy!! They catch on in no time, don't they? ;)

Looking foward to more updates! Have a great day, Brook!!:goodvibes

Thank you! We were stuck on what to wear for a costume, so I did some Google work and an idea I found online triggered the "apple pie" idea. Everyone got a big kick out of it!

The party was a lot of fun. It was neat that this year Henry was really getting into it. His first year he was so tiny, he just ate and then napped pretty much for the whole thing. Then last year it was all a bit overwhelming to him, but this year he was all about those games!

You and Joe are too clever!!! I love the "apple pie"! :lmao::rotfl::rotfl2:

Thanks!! Easy costume, quick and simple! :thumbsup2

Henry's cute and all but love the fro on you girl! I dare you to where it New Year's Eve :lmao:

:rotfl: Oh, that is TEMPTING! Can you imagine me chillin' on the beach with MeMom and Jill wearing that? :rotfl:

Henry looks quite himself in the driver get up! Excellent choice! :thumbsup2

And... I gotta chime in on the "apple pie". Brilliant! :laughing: I just love that kinda geeky-ness! Probably comes from being a life-long geek, myself.

As soon as I spotted the car outfit, I knew it would be a hit! He kept pointing out the various logos and saying "car!" It was cute.

And thank you for the compliment on the costume! :goodvibes I can't take full credit, it was a spin off of an idea I found online. I love clever costumes too-it's so fun! Last year we were the 2nd Amendment, the right to bear arms. We strapped teddy bears to our arms.

That's the perfect costume for Henry! And, what's up with the dum dums? All the little kids that came to my door, I let them pick what they wanted. 99.9% picked the dum dums. I ran out of those first!

BTW, love the hair and the creative costume!!:goodvibes

Wow! Dum Dums must be the new popular candy! :laughing: I thought Henry would pick ALL chocolate, but he really loved those suckers (and still does...)

The fro was a lot of fun! I got many, many double-takes!

Apple Pie! :rotfl:
Love the fro, and Henry looks SO cute! :goodvibes

Thank you!!! :goodvibes

So cute! Your trip is coming up so quick!

I know! :eek: 52 days! :yay:

brookelizabeth

11-04-2009, 11:59 PM

Oh my gosh that party at your church looks awesome and brought back lots of memories of elementary school. Right before Halloween we would have a cake walk and in the gym a bunch of those games were set up. That looks like it was a ton of fun!

Love the costumes!

We seem to always post at the same time! :laughing:

I remember the cake walks from when I was a kid too! I had to do it with Henry, just for old times sake. It was fun!

A.Mickey

11-05-2009, 12:02 AM

We seem to always post at the same time! :laughing:

We are both night owls!

brookelizabeth

11-05-2009, 12:36 AM

I am SO VERY HAPPY to report that flights are finally PURCHASED for our entire family!

And the New Orleans hotel ordeal is settled!

Okay, so since I haven't been writing here much, a quick back story....

Way back in August we were going to purchase airfare for everyone:

1 way MSP to MCO on December 26.
1 way MCO to MSY on January 1.
1 way MSY to MSP on January 3 for in-laws, 4th for us.

But, we hoped it would go down in price...and it didn't. It went up, up, up!

I checked the prices nearly everyday since then, sometimes a few times a day in hopes we would snag a deal.

Eventually we found okay prices for both MSP to MCO, and MCO to MSY. But that last leg was bad. It was hovering right around $200 for a one-way for Joe, Henry and I, and even higher for the in-laws. Then it went UP. About $260 for us, close to $300 for the in-laws!

It was scaring me a bit, stressing me out to the point where it would keep me awake at night. :sad2: If it was just our family, it would bother me, but this was my in-laws. They have completely trusted me to do this planning and I felt like a huge, ugly, giant failure! I did NOT want them paying those prices!!!

Then Southwest had a sale just the other day...so Joe and I snagged our flights for $100 to fly out on January 5, so that means an extra day in New Orleans for us! :yay: We are all about this. With food costs, it will be a bit of a wash for cost out of the pocket-so to stay an extra day was a definite YES on our front. We have no idea when we'll get back to New Orleans, so having another full day to tour, explore and enjoy was a great bonus for us.

But the in-laws were still stuck in New Orleans. :headache: January 3 was seriously the most expensive day to fly. It kept going up. Over $300-some were $500 for a ONE WAY!

Last night I couldn't sleep because this was on my mind. So I got up and saw it for $180 on the 4th. It was still insane for the 3rd, but $180 isn't too bad considering the prices as of late.

So, after talking with the in-laws today, then going over the numbers....tonight I got them the $180 flight that flies out on the 4th. They were okay with this because we were able to get a cheaper hotel with the 3 night stay (deal with the wedding), so between the hotel and the flight, it resulted in a $133 saved per person. :thumbsup2

Here are the details:

Joe, Brook, Henry, Grammy, Poppa and KK all fly out from Minneapolis on December 26 at 1:20 pm on Delta airlines. Flying non-stop to Orlando, arriving at 5:28 pm.

Everyone then flies out of Orlando on January 1 at 1:00 pm on Southwest Airlines. Flying non-stop to New Orleans, arriving at 1:55 pm.

Grammy, Poppa and KK fly out of New Orleans on January 4 at 10:52 am on AirTran Airways. 2 hour layover in Atlanta, arriving at Minneapolis at 5:23 pm.

Joe, Brook and Henry fly out of New Orleans on January 5 at 10:05 am on Southwest Airlines. A short layover in Chicago, arriving at Minneapolis at 3:15 pm.

Whew.

Now, as you know, we are staying at the beautiful Kidani Village while in Disney World. However, I don't think I have discussed where we are staying in New Orleans.

We are staying right in the French Quarter at the Astor Crowne Plaza (http://www.astorneworleans.com/).

http://www.astorneworleans.com/img/masthead_hom.jpg
*image from their website

It looks like a very nice hotel, and it just a couple blocks from the wedding location-and right in the heart of New Orleans!

Here is a quick To Do list for the trip:
Disney

In-laws need to buy tickets
Plan in-room meals
Get basic touring plan done for parks, "must do's"

Buy coffee "to go" cups
Make grocery list
Put in WeGoShop order
Make budget so I have a clue what we can expect to spend while there
Get cash for tips
Pack (we can do this at anytime considering how cold MN is now!)
Make the inevitable 838 trips to Target for last minute things
Set up details of NYE meet with MeMom
But Passporter inserts
Print basic trip plan for in-laws
Get countdown calendar ready with stickers for Henry
Research scooters for Poppa

NOLA

Try to find a cheaper hotel
Buy wedding present for the happy couple!
Research cheap/free things to do

Get a basic map of the area, walking map?
Go back to early pages of this PTR and re-read all NOLA advice given, take notes, commit to memory! ;)

And I'm sure there are several things I'm forgetting, but that is it off the top of my head. Time to get crackin', eh?

I don't think I've shouted this over here, just on my TR...

WE ARE GOING TO DISNEY WORLD NEXT MONTH!!!

Feel soooo good to say that. I told my mother-in-law today, "that's just 7 Monday's". :cloud9:

brookelizabeth

11-05-2009, 12:37 AM

We are both night owls!

It's true! I try not to be, but I find myself busy on the computer until midnight or later. :rolleyes1

I see you have a new CC debt ticker! :yay: Do you know my CC debt story? It's an ugly one...but with a great ending. :goodvibes

A.Mickey

11-05-2009, 12:53 AM

It's true! I try not to be, but I find myself busy on the computer until midnight or later. :rolleyes1

I see you have a new CC debt ticker! :yay: Do you know my CC debt story? It's an ugly one...but with a great ending. :goodvibes

Yeah, I try not to be either, but sometimes I just can't tear myself away from the glowiness!

Yes I do have a CC debt ticker! I told you about the No Buy thread yesterday, it is really helping me! You told me a wee bit about your CC debt story, (but I love hearing your stories if you want to tell me more!) I am just glad you had a great ending! As I am sure I will too! I should be out of the bulk of my cc debt by summer of next year!

Lady Lallie

11-05-2009, 09:48 AM

WOO HOO! This trip has totally snuck up on us! :banana:

Your to do lists seem very managable. Everything is going to go smoothly I am sure. :thumbsup2

princess&her4princes

11-05-2009, 09:56 AM

:banana:WOOHOO next month!!!!!!!!!!:banana:

WOW...the airfare issues were stressing me out just reading about them, so I can only imagine how they felt for you, glad to hear that they are resolved!! You've got some great plans with New Orleans, glad you get to spend some time there to check things out, the hotel looks beautiful!!!

Your lists look great...love the 838 trips to Target, how true is that?!! LOL!!:lmao:

SoonerGirl

11-05-2009, 11:40 AM

I'm so glad your airfare drama is over and everything is all set! :cool1: That has to be a huge load off your mind.

You arrive on the 26th, we are going home on the 27th - we'll have to see if we can work it out so that we can meet up for a minute to say hi!

PracPerfPatricia

11-05-2009, 12:32 PM

Hmmm...

Henry as always looks "eatupable"...:goodvibes

I too love your fro but except for the fact that my hair is longer and redder...that's pretty close to how it looks first thing in the morning...:lmao:

Your hotel in NO looks so pretty...WOW---what a great trip you have coming up...:thumbsup2

gellybean

11-05-2009, 01:57 PM

So I'm a little late finding your PTR but I'm here!

Your New Year's Trip sounds so awesome!! I love that it's not gonna be a typical trip, ya know? The date night and the Candlelight processional, and the side trip to New Orleans. Great fun!! I'm so jealous that you're going to get to go to New Orleans in the winter time. We were in Baton Rouge in August and contemplated making a dip down to Nawlins and just couldn't fathom it in that heat and humidity!! Can't wait to see pics of that part of your trip, as well as all the great pics from Kidani!! So excited that you're trip is NEXT month!!! :yay:

:goodvibes

IluvXU

11-05-2009, 02:09 PM

wdwgirl03

11-05-2009, 02:26 PM

Aww, Henry looked so cute in his Halloween costume. I am betting my cousin's son wore something very similar to that since he loves Cars so much. :rotfl:

Glad the airline issues are all resolved! And yay for NEXT MONTH! :yay:

jenseib

11-05-2009, 10:54 PM

That's the perfect costume for Henry! And, what's up with the dum dums? All the little kids that came to my door, I let them pick what they wanted. 99.9% picked the dum dums. I ran out of those first!

BTW, love the hair and the creative costume!!:goodvibes

Claire does that. I couldn't beleive it. We had several of those stupid suckers and she was picking them over Reeses and Snickers. She must not be related to me. LOL!

Henry is a doll in that costume (as are you :lmao:). And he left the hot on too. he must've really liked it. maybe you can take the outfit along to Disney and have it wear it a day and get more use out of it.

lazydoxy66

11-06-2009, 01:10 AM

The Harvest party looked like fun. I loved your 'fro'. 'Apple pie' is very cute.

Your ADRs look good. Glad you got all you flights taken care of without too much bleeding out of the wallet.

Pssst, we're going to WDW next month! :banana:

mickeysmyboy

11-06-2009, 01:28 PM

Henry looks adorable in his halloween costume!!

I LOVE the apple pie costumes!! Too cute!!

I'm glad your everything worked out for the trip! It's coming up so close and so fast!

CJsMom

11-06-2009, 04:22 PM

Yay for next month!!! :banana:
:jumping1:

Charleston Princess

11-06-2009, 05:46 PM

Thank goodness you were able to get tickets home from New Orleans for your family and the in-laws! What a relief! Plus, you get an extra day in NOLA! Woo hoo! I don't remember what everyone has said about things to do, but I do hope you will head to Cafe du Monde for cafe au laits and beignets! That was one of my fondest memories of our trip there. Also, try and ride the streetcar from the French Quarter to the Garden District! That was a lot of fun as well!

MeMom

11-06-2009, 06:48 PM

:rotfl: Oh, that is TEMPTING! Can you imagine me chillin' on the beach with MeMom and Jill wearing that? :rotfl:

52 days! :yay:

Maybe a lime green one would be better for NYE. :)

Holiday months seem to fly by at school, so it will be time to start packing December Disney bags before you know it!

PopArtGal

11-08-2009, 01:15 PM

The plans sound great!

And woohoo for 1 month!

Lovemy3babes

11-08-2009, 05:04 PM

I played the airline game too. It's so, so frustrating! We finally bought ours a couple weeks ago and I breathed a HUGE sigh of relief. That's a biggie on the list. Congrats for getting a pretty good deal! 27 days for us so I really need to move on the countdown calendar. LOL!

TyRy

11-09-2009, 11:20 AM

brookelizabeth

11-12-2009, 09:49 AM

44 days!!!!!

I have a few updates - just need to find the time to post them! :goodvibes Today and tomorrow I am taking Henry's nap time to catch up on the DIS, post and PLAN. :yay:

onelilspark

11-12-2009, 10:25 AM

I might steal your costume idea next year. We're not big costume people, so I like it!!

Charleston Princess

11-12-2009, 11:22 AM

Looking forward to the updates! popcorn::

DWGal210

11-12-2009, 12:15 PM

I just wanted to pop on and say hello!! I'll be there the same time as your family -- and I'll probably see you at the NYE fireworks with MeMom and crew, right? That should be a good time! :thumbsup2

I'll go back and read more but just wanted to say hi!

brookelizabeth

11-12-2009, 04:58 PM

I just sent an email to the family - our loose agenda for Saturday, December 26. Things are pretty well set, just a few details here and there to fill in! I have the other days loosely planned as well...I just don't want to overwhelm them with my OCD planning. ;)

Hi all,
Here is a loose schedule I have for our departure day. I have a couple questions and pending your responses, I will create a more solid plan. I plan to put together a "Master Plan" sorta list for everyone so we are all on the same page:

11:00 am - meet at Mall of America parking lot
Go to Park N Fly
Shuttle to airport

---->Joe and I have used a Park N Fly right by MSP for the past few trips. It is a great service and much cheaper than parking at the airport. Since we will be coming from my Mom's house, I was thinking if you would like to use Park N Fly too, we can meet at the Mall of America parking lot that is basically the dirt lot - across from the entrance (not many cars park here-easy to find each other) - and we can lead the way over to the Park N Fly. What do you think?

1:20 pm - departure MSP-MCO, non-stop
5:28 pm - arrival

---->We will be using Disney's Magical Express (a bus) to get to the resort. It's free of charge (we just tip the driver). They will even deliver your luggage to your room if you'd like, so you can go straight to the bus rather than stopping at baggage claim and shelping all your bags. It does take a few hours before you get your luggage though - so sometimes this is not desirable. Joe and I have done it, and we have also picked up our luggage and stored it on the bus. I don't know which we are doing this time, sometimes it's easier to just have our luggage with a toddler! :) Let me know if you'd like to skip baggage claim for your bags and just have Disney deliver them, or if you'd rather pick them up yourself. There are claim tickets Disney sends in the mail if you want Disney to handle them.

6:00 pm - Magical Express to Kidani Village
7:30 pm - arrival at AKV, WeGoShop delivery

---->Hopefully we get in earlier than this, but I'm going to aim low. WeGoShop is the company we will use to have our food delivered.

Options for that night....we don't have to decide on this, we'll just leave it open to how we feel for the night.

Relax around resort - most likely our option after a long travel day!!
9:00 PM - SpectroMagic---a night time parade, really cool, all the floats are lit up in lights - might fit the next night as well if you are interested in seeing this.
10:00 PM - Wishes - the fireworks show at Magic Kingdom - beautiful show!!! If you want to see this, we can also fit it in another night.
Osborne Lights - the "dancing lights" at Hollywood Studios. I don't know yet when the lights start, but this is something we definitely don't want to miss. If we don't do it this night, we can fit it in another night too.

44 days!
-Brook

So, I know you, my fellow DISers understand planning obsessiveness. So, for your viewing pleasure...here is The Plan 1.0.

Sunday, December 27
8:00 am - Noonish -- EPCOT
Noonish onward - FREE TIME*
7:25 pm - Date night for Joe & I at California Grill (Henry stays with in-laws)
10:00 pm - Wishes from viewing deck

Options for that night...

Family may wish to go to MK for Spectro/Wishes

Meet KK at MK after Wishes for EMH, MK open until 2:00 am
Back to resort for relax/hang out with family

Monday, December 28
8:00 am -- DHS
Noon -- ADR at 50's
After ADR - FREE TIME*

Options for that night...

Whenever to 10:00 pm AK
9:00 pm Spectro
10:00 pm Wishes
Resort time

Tuesday, December 29
8:00 am - Noonish -- MK
Noonish onward -- FREE TIME*
?time? -- DHS for Osborne Lights

Options for that night...

Whenever to 12:30 am - EPCOT
Resort time

Wednesday, December 30
8:00 am - Noonish -- AK
Noonish - 4:15 pm -- FREE TIME*
4:15 pm -- ADR at Biergarten
6:45 pm -- Candlelight Processional
9:30 pm -- Illuminations

Options for that night...

Whenever to 3:00 am - MK
Resort time

Thursday, December 31
9:45 am -- ADR at Boma
Whole day -- FREE TIME*

Options for that night...

7:00 pm Spectro
8:00ish - Go to Poly Beach, claim spot for NYE fireworks, eat Dole Whips and drink Kona Coffee on the beach. Take turns entertaining Henry on the hammocks, playgrounds, digging holes in the sand. Meet up with MeMom, Jill and crew. Meet the infamous Brooklynn. :goodvibes (gee, wonder what I'll be doing?! :laughing: I hope my MIL and FIL come too, but they are early to bed/early to rise people, so we'll see...)

Friday, January 1
10:00 am -- ME to MCO
1:00 pm -- Depature to MSY
1:55 pm -- Arrival / cab to hotel

And ya....that's as far as I have gotten for NOLA! :rotfl:

*Suggestions for FREE TIME:

Resort activities
Downtown Disney
Resort hopping

Any park
Mini golf
Napping :goodvibes

Suggestions? Ideas? How does it look? Do you see any holes I am missing? I would REALLY like my in-laws to see Spectro and Wishes, but I am not certain it will happen. Do you see anywhere we could fit it in that I don't have listed?

ETA: I don't know why the formatting on the quote from my email is breaking up into two separate items. I am trying not to let it bug me. *Trying*.

AND, I do plan to do responses. I feel AWFUL for not doing responses yet on here or on my TR. I love responding to everyone, and reading what you have to say, thank you so much!!

KathyRN137

11-12-2009, 05:05 PM

Hey Brook!

Wow! Things really are coming together!

Oh my goodness, just wait until you see Kidani... its gorgeous! Henry is going to love, love, love it!! :lovestruc

Kathy

Flossbolna

11-12-2009, 05:23 PM

Looks like a wonderful plan! I see that you are doing lots of rope drops! :lmao: I guess that's a necessity during the holidays... I think you have planned enough park time to get to know everything for a bit and enough down time to just enjoy being there. Sounds great to me! :goodvibes

SoonerGirl

11-12-2009, 05:48 PM

Looks good! I think hitting the parks in the morning and then letting the afternoon play itself out is a great idea. We are planning on doing the same after the first few days of our trip. The only thing that I can see as being a problem is trying to make Spectro on NYE - I'm afraid the park will close to capacity well before the parade time.....

jessily

11-12-2009, 07:11 PM

PopArtGal

11-12-2009, 07:18 PM

Did the family reply?

IluvXU

11-12-2009, 07:58 PM

I think your plans look fantastic. and doable. and most importantly not overwhelming!

You are going to have such a fantastic time... can't wait to read all about it. A Christmas Break trip is a dream of mine... someday!

Lovemy3babes

11-13-2009, 01:48 PM

Osborne lights start at dusk so around 6ish I would guess? That's what I'm planning on. Plan looks great Brook!

shebaxric

11-13-2009, 02:31 PM

The plans look wonderful Brook! You are going to enjoy this time of year at WDW so much! It's my favorite time to go, I just love the atmosphere.

I can't believe the times for the EMH!! That is crazy! But, I know there will definitely be people there, taking it all in!

Have the family fallen in with the plan?

brookelizabeth

11-13-2009, 04:15 PM

Yeah, I try not to be either, but sometimes I just can't tear myself away from the glowiness!

Yes I do have a CC debt ticker! I told you about the No Buy thread yesterday, it is really helping me! You told me a wee bit about your CC debt story, (but I love hearing your stories if you want to tell me more!) I am just glad you had a great ending! As I am sure I will too! I should be out of the bulk of my cc debt by summer of next year!

I SO understand! I have been up until 1:00 am lately. :sad2: I just can't rip myself away since I always am so far behind. I have taken the last 2 days and gotten pretty much caught up, now I just have to catch up on MY reports. :laughing:

My CC story...
Joe had a bunch of debt, and I had some that we both brought into the marriage. That, along with some frivolous spending together equaled about $22,000 in JUST credit card debt. :sick:

We took a Dave Ramsey course and while we have had a few trip ups here and there, we are now CREDIT CARD DEBT FREE! We used to pay $600 a month JUST for credit card bills!!!!! :sad2::sad2::sad2: $600! We still have a medical bill, the house, DVC (ya, technically we should haven't had bought this...but....!), and a student loan - but that is IT. It is incredible freedom! I am glad we pushed through that time and lived tightly - it taught us a lot and the end result is fantastic. I never ever would have been able to quit my job if we were still in that rut.

We do have a Disney Visa that we put trip related things on - then we pay it off right away. It currently is looking very ugly with all the plane tickets for the entire family on it. :scared1: BUT, I know they have the money to pay us, so it's not really bad at all. :goodvibes

WOO HOO! This trip has totally snuck up on us! :banana:

Your to do lists seem very managable. Everything is going to go smoothly I am sure. :thumbsup2

It really has! I started freaking out a few days ago about how much there is to do, but I've accomplished a lot lately, so I'm feeling a bit better about it now.

:banana:WOOHOO next month!!!!!!!!!!:banana:

WOW...the airfare issues were stressing me out just reading about them, so I can only imagine how they felt for you, glad to hear that they are resolved!! You've got some great plans with New Orleans, glad you get to spend some time there to check things out, the hotel looks beautiful!!!

Your lists look great...love the 838 trips to Target, how true is that?!! LOL!!:lmao:

Ugh, the airfare ordeal was horrible. If it's our money, it's one thing-we can deal-but this is my in-laws money! And they kept saying "We trust you..." eelkalkjdlakjlkd :eek: :rotfl: I'm so glad it's over and we got decent rates.

I'm so glad your airfare drama is over and everything is all set! :cool1: That has to be a huge load off your mind.

You arrive on the 26th, we are going home on the 27th - we'll have to see if we can work it out so that we can meet up for a minute to say hi!

I was just thinking about that yesterday when I saw you and widg talking about it on her PTR! That would be GREAT! We have no plans for the 26th-we'll be pooped from traveling Im sure, the 27th will be Epcot in the morning, and free time in the afternoon/evening. What are your plans?

Hmmm...

Henry as always looks "eatupable"...:goodvibes

I too love your fro but except for the fact that my hair is longer and redder...that's pretty close to how it looks first thing in the morning...:lmao:

Your hotel in NO looks so pretty...WOW---what a great trip you have coming up...:thumbsup2

"Eatupable" I like that! :goodvibes

:rotfl: about your red morning fro! I have naturally curly hair as well---not quite as tight curls as yours, but it can be quite a site in the morning!

I'm so excited about our trip! It's kinda surreal to me still that we are doing this...!

So I'm a little late finding your PTR but I'm here!

Your New Year's Trip sounds so awesome!! I love that it's not gonna be a typical trip, ya know? The date night and the Candlelight processional, and the side trip to New Orleans. Great fun!! I'm so jealous that you're going to get to go to New Orleans in the winter time. We were in Baton Rouge in August and contemplated making a dip down to Nawlins and just couldn't fathom it in that heat and humidity!! Can't wait to see pics of that part of your trip, as well as all the great pics from Kidani!! So excited that you're trip is NEXT month!!! :yay:

:goodvibes

:welcome: Glad you found me here!!! I'm so happy to see you back on the DIS more, your TR always made me laugh so much, you are such a great writer!

I'm looking forward to our trip, New Orleans has me a tad nervous since I have never been there and my family is basically trusting me to plan them the vacation....I haven't a clue what to do with that yet! But, I'll figure it out....just gotta do some research. :surfweb: And yep, I'll bring back LOTS of pictures!!!

brookelizabeth

11-13-2009, 04:16 PM

Love the 7 Mondays. I am so excited about your AKV stay.... what room accomodations do you have again-- a two or one bedroom? We are planning to a point buster two bedroom in 2011 or 12, so I want to know what it is like.

I laughed out loud at the 838 trips to Target.... I just try to stay out.... but might be tempted to check the clearance Halloween again...

We are doing a 2 bedroom at AKV - I'll be sure to take a lot of pictures and report back on how the room worked out for us. There are 5 adults and 1 toddler. My Mom randomly emailed me yesterday telling me she wants to come to Disney with us, I would LOVE it if she came on this trip, and so would my MIL (they get along very well)...so perhaps 6 adults. We'll see!

Our Target already cleared out the Halloween stuff! I was gone for a few days at my cousin's house, come back and GONE. :sad2: It only got up to 75% off I think. I was hoping for 90%! :laughing:

Aww, Henry looked so cute in his Halloween costume. I am betting my cousin's son wore something very similar to that since he loves Cars so much. :rotfl:

Glad the airline issues are all resolved! And yay for NEXT MONTH! :yay:

Thank you!! It was a really fun costume, Henry was so proud to show off his "cars" on it. :goodvibes

Claire does that. I couldn't beleive it. We had several of those stupid suckers and she was picking them over Reeses and Snickers. She must not be related to me. LOL!

Henry is a doll in that costume (as are you :lmao:). And he left the hot on too. he must've really liked it. maybe you can take the outfit along to Disney and have it wear it a day and get more use out of it.

Today I gave Henry the option of a sucker or M&Ms - he chose the sucker! Kids and their suckers! :laughing:

He looooooves that hat. He wears it around the house all the time! It has McQueen, so it's a keeper. That's a great idea to bring the costume to Disney World! He could wear it to DHS when he gets to meet McQueen and Mater again :thumbsup2 Very, very good idea-thank you!!!

The Harvest party looked like fun. I loved your 'fro'. 'Apple pie' is very cute.

Your ADRs look good. Glad you got all you flights taken care of without too much bleeding out of the wallet.

Pssst, we're going to WDW next month! :banana:

Thank you!! I'm so happy to have the ADRs and the flights done - those were the biggest deals. I did want a GF Tea for my MIL and SIL and I, but completely forgot about it at the time...all well! Next trip!

Can you believe our trips are so close?!??! :woohoo:

Henry looks adorable in his halloween costume!!

I LOVE the apple pie costumes!! Too cute!!

I'm glad your everything worked out for the trip! It's coming up so close and so fast!

Thank you!! It's coming so quickly, I have to get the countdown calendar ready SOON!

Yay for next month!!! :banana:
:jumping1:

:dance3::dance3:

Thank goodness you were able to get tickets home from New Orleans for your family and the in-laws! What a relief! Plus, you get an extra day in NOLA! Woo hoo! I don't remember what everyone has said about things to do, but I do hope you will head to Cafe du Monde for cafe au laits and beignets! That was one of my fondest memories of our trip there. Also, try and ride the streetcar from the French Quarter to the Garden District! That was a lot of fun as well!

We debated on the extra day - Joe had to take another day off work, but his bosses were totally cool with it. I'm VERY glad we have a whole extra day - who knows when we will get back there?

Streetcar from the French Quarter to the Garden District...putting that in my "notes" document, thank you CP!

Maybe a lime green one would be better for NYE. :)

Holiday months seem to fly by at school, so it will be time to start packing December Disney bags before you know it!

:rotfl: Oh man...a lime green fro! What a sight that would be!

I am half tempted to pull out the luggage NOW to start packing....

The plans sound great!

And woohoo for 1 month!

Thank you! Things are finally starting to fall into place with all the plans!

I played the airline game too. It's so, so frustrating! We finally bought ours a couple weeks ago and I breathed a HUGE sigh of relief. That's a biggie on the list. Congrats for getting a pretty good deal! 27 days for us so I really need to move on the countdown calendar. LOL!

The airline ordeal can be so stressful! I wish rates would just stay consistent, why do they have to change sooooo much?

27 days (now even less!) :yay: That will just fly right by I'm sure with all the holiday stuff starting up!

brookelizabeth

11-13-2009, 04:17 PM

Henry looks like he had a lot of fun at the Harvest Party. Did he actually eat the apple or give up and go back to candy? :rotfl:

Glad you finally got the flights straightend out...that is big time stressful.

I don't know what you are paying for hotel in NOLA, but we stayed at the Hotel St. Marie for our honeymoon way back in 2002. It was about a block and a half off Burbon Street, but you never heard any noise from there. It seems like they are always having specials. Not sure where the wedding is, but it may be worth a look:
http://www.hotelstmarie.com/

Can't wait to hear about that part of the trip. I really hope we can get back there sometime soon.

:lmao: No, he ate the apple. He reallyyyyyy wanted it too - he loves apples! I try to treat them to him like they are special, so he will always want them. ;)

THANK YOU for the hotel link! I will check it out! We are paying $169 a night right now. Joe thinks that is outrageous (yet, he'll pay $300 a night at Disney :confused3) - I'm fine with it, considering the City and the time of year, I think it's a good rate! But, if we can do cheaper, that's always better. :goodvibes

I'll be sure to come back with a gazillion pictures. I'm very into architecture, so the buildings down there will fascinate me, as well as the people and the culture. I'm excited about the FOOD too!

I might steal your costume idea next year. We're not big costume people, so I like it!!

:thumbsup2 go for it! We aren't big costume people either...I think if we had time to pre-plan for it all, we might get into it, but it never happens, so something like this is easy and fun. Did you hear about the costume on tv show "The Office" where the guy went as Facebook? He just wrote "BOOK" on his face. :laughing: We had so many people ask us that night if we saw that episode of The Office.

Looking forward to the updates! popcorn::

I've got MORE too!

I just wanted to pop on and say hello!! I'll be there the same time as your family -- and I'll probably see you at the NYE fireworks with MeMom and crew, right? That should be a good time! :thumbsup2

I'll go back and read more but just wanted to say hi!

YES! Awesome!!!!! :woohoo: I look forward to meeting you!!!!

I'm coming over to your PTR too. I'm nervous about the planning and want to glean any ideas/suggestions off other DISers. :laughing:

Hey Brook!

Wow! Things really are coming together!

Oh my goodness, just wait until you see Kidani... its gorgeous! Henry is going to love, love, love it!! :lovestruc

Kathy

Yes, they are finallyyyyy coming together. Slowly but surely. I need like 8 straight days to devote to it all, then I'll feel better and more solid on all the details. Gotta sneak in some planning time whenever Henry is content playing by himself or napping instead! :goodvibes

I can't wait to stay at Kidani! From our brief visit in September, I just LOVED it. Soooo pretty. I keep dreaming of the rooms :cloud9:

Looks like a wonderful plan! I see that you are doing lots of rope drops! :lmao: I guess that's a necessity during the holidays... I think you have planned enough park time to get to know everything for a bit and enough down time to just enjoy being there. Sounds great to me! :goodvibes

:rotfl2: Yes, this non-RD family is planning on hitting all the RDs! My MIL is an early riser, so she'll get us moving hopefully by making the coffee and making some noise around the room. ;)

I hope we have a good balance. I know my MIL and FIL aren't too into rides, they will enjoy the shows/attractions a lot though. And FIL will be on a scooter, so it will be slow going. But, they literally have not taken a vacation in 15 years. And the last one was a camping trip to northern Minnesota. It barely counts! :laughing: They are looking forward to just being there, in a nice hotel, with their kids.

Looks good! I think hitting the parks in the morning and then letting the afternoon play itself out is a great idea. We are planning on doing the same after the first few days of our trip. The only thing that I can see as being a problem is trying to make Spectro on NYE - I'm afraid the park will close to capacity well before the parade time.....

I am thinking that too on NYE. I highly doubt we'll even try...I can see us all just hanging around playing cards and enjoying the resort that day rather than pushing our way through crowds. After talking with the family some yesterday, we *might* hit Epcot for a bit...but who knows.

brookelizabeth

11-13-2009, 04:18 PM

Your plans look great!

I loved reading your email to the family. I've planned trips with family and groups of friends before... I try to master that 'giving them enough information, but not so much that they tune out or figure out just exactly how Disney nuts I am' email :rolleyes1 On one failed attempt, I had friends arriving in Orlando before me.... explained Magical Express to them, sent them all our hotel confirmation info with exact instructions for getting to the resort and checking in. They called me upon landing at MCO and asked what hotel we were staying at and what the cheapest way to get there was:scared1:

Sounds like you're planning a great trip for your family:thumbsup2 They're going to have a blast seeing everything with Henry!

My last email to the family was PAGES long. I got so excited while typing! :rotfl: I had to go back and just bold the important stuff. My MIL wrote me back, laughing, and told me my excitement was wonderful and contagious. She's such a great woman!

That is funny (I'm sure not at the time though!) about your friends. I know our first trip everything was a bit overwhelming, so too much information just got us confused. I'm trying to take that approach with the in-laws....trying....

Did the family reply?

Yep!
MIL had a bunch of questions about the flight...because she, nor FIL have EVER flown. This will be their first flight! I want them to get wings. :laughing:

Looks like they aren't going to check luggage, so no worries on the bags for ME - and they are having my other SIL drive them to the airport, so we will probably just meet at the airport rather than the Park N Fly, which should work great.

Since they have never flown, they aren't sure how tired they will be, but as she always says-we are free to go (along with my SIL) and they would be more than happy to stay back and watch Henry. I think they are really looking forward to several straight days with that little guy. :goodvibes

I think your plans look fantastic. and doable. and most importantly not overwhelming!

You are going to have such a fantastic time... can't wait to read all about it. A Christmas Break trip is a dream of mine... someday!

I am really trying to be loose and flexible with the plans since it will surely be sooooo busy and we'll be a large, slow moving group with a scooter and a toddler. I am glad the plans don't look too overwhelming! :thumbsup2

Osborne lights start at dusk so around 6ish I would guess? That's what I'm planning on. Plan looks great Brook!

Ah, good to know! Somewhere I read that once it starts, the "flip the switch" time will easily be found on the DIS, but good to know it's usually around 6. I can start to work plans around that a bit. I'm SO excited to see them!!!

The plans look wonderful Brook! You are going to enjoy this time of year at WDW so much! It's my favorite time to go, I just love the atmosphere.

I can't believe the times for the EMH!! That is crazy! But, I know there will definitely be people there, taking it all in!

Have the family fallen in with the plan?

I know it! MK closes at 3 am and opens again at 8 am! :eek: It's very weird planning a trip like this - almost every day is MK EMH! :rotfl:

brookelizabeth

11-13-2009, 04:36 PM

Not trip related, but I have to share...

A couple weeks ago, Henry and I hit up a local thrift store - I had never been in there, and found a TREASURE of a store! Tons of random stuff, and it was cheaaaaaaap. The most expensive thing I saw was a green chair for $4.00. :woohoo:

On our way out, I noticed a pile of books laying on a push cart that one of the employees was putting away. And right on top was this:

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4506-Small/712243996_oFDR9-M.jpg

"Is this for sale?"

"Yes, it is"

"How much is it?"

"All books are 25 cents."

'Nuff said.

:goodvibes

What a cooooool book!!!!! It was printed in 1985 (that is pre DHS, right?). Here are some pictures that don't do it justice (sorry if you read this and some the pictures are sideways, I'm working on correcting that!). There are some truly beautiful photographs in this book. And I love seeing pictures of things that no longer exist at WDW - any of you remember some of these things?

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4509-Small/712244038_yM8vn-M.jpg
A canoe ride to Tom Sawyer island

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4510-Small/712244045_Cjzio-M.jpg
The StarJets (pre-Astro Orbiter?)

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4511-Small/712244054_7CNxd-M-1.jpg
The Jungle Cruise. Looks SO different now with all the overgrown vegetation.

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4512-Small/712244069_iMzwQ-M-1.jpg
Hmmm....this themeing looks a tad familiar, no?

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4513-Small/712244107_5LC9A-M-1.jpg
Love this pic. :goodvibes

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4514-Small/712244085_mc8KW-M-1.jpg
That is Crystal Palace. Back then there was a violin, accordion and bass player instead of Pooh and friends! Must have been signature dining by the way people are dressed?

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4516-Small/712244117_FMqt6-M-1.jpg
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4517-Small/712244121_DBUj7-M.jpg
A paddle boat ride past the CR!

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4519-Small/712244136_CSbdW-M.jpg
CR - I thought it was cool how they had a pool out on the lake - it's changed so much since then!

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4521-Small/712244164_o3wKM-M.jpg
I wish they had these guys in Germany!

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4522-Small/712244170_LcXjL-M.jpg
And I wish I had a robot to do my vacuuming. ;) This is from Innoventions.

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4525-Small/712244192_kH2Bk-M-1.jpg
An artist sketch of the ride pre-Nemo...what was it called again?

And now I finally understand why our Figment lovers miss the old Journey into Imagination, this looks really great!:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4526-Small/712243984_ChCtp-M-1.jpg

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4527-Small/712243974_RWj2d-M.jpg

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4528-Small/712243979_yyZ6R-M.jpg

Lovemy3babes

11-13-2009, 04:44 PM

Oh my gosh!!! What a find for sure. I bet you were just giddy to get that extra special book in such great shape! :) What neat pictures!!

pmama

11-13-2009, 05:01 PM

Score! Very neat pictures. Thanks for sharing.

SoonerGirl

11-13-2009, 05:09 PM

I was just thinking about that yesterday when I saw you and widg talking about it on her PTR! That would be GREAT! We have no plans for the 26th-we'll be pooped from traveling Im sure, the 27th will be Epcot in the morning, and free time in the afternoon/evening. What are your plans?

The night of the 26th we'll be at the Contemporary, we've got a dinner ADR @ The Wave and then a Wishes Cruise! :cool1: The 27th is doable though I think! We have a breakfast ressie at Kona Cafe and then the rest of the day is open until we have to head back to the resort for our ME bus (about mid-afternoon). I had originally thought that we would head to MK after our breakfast, but TGM says to AVOID the MK on that day, so we really don't have set plans; Epcot or DHS were penciled in as possiblities. We could definitely make it Epcot!

Great find on that book! Thanks for sharing.

wdwgirl03

11-13-2009, 05:19 PM

OMG, that is an awesome book! 1985 was a good year because that's when I was born. LOL! And you are right, it is pre-MGM/DHS. It opened in 1989.

The pre-Nemo pavilion was just called The Living Seas. I can't remember what the original ride was called, if anything. Somewhere we've got an old stack of park maps (we meant to throw them away but they're still lying around somewhere :rolleyes:) so I'll have to see if we have one with The Living Seas. All I remember was that I was kinda bummed when they took it out. It was so cool seeing all the fish! I LOVED the original JII. It was SOOOOOOO awesome! A bit of trivia: I shared this in my August TR but the Dream Machine in those last couple of pictures is now in Mouse Gear!

PopArtGal

11-13-2009, 05:20 PM

Awesome book!

You're lucky!

wickesy

11-13-2009, 05:38 PM

The ride pre-Nemo was the Seacabs (http://www.lostepcot.com/livingseas.html) at Seabase Alpha. :thumbsup2

GreatBiscuit

11-13-2009, 05:41 PM

Shut the front door! I had no idea this PTR was going on! (I mean I knew about the recently passed trip, but I didn't realize it was now a twofer!) I got some catchin up! I just saw the post on the WDW book. That's AWESOME! Best quarter ever spent!

mickeysmyboy

11-13-2009, 07:43 PM

That book is too cool!!! Love all the old pics!

jordanyosh

11-13-2009, 08:58 PM

ahhh 1985..what a great year....

great pix.

onelilspark

11-13-2009, 09:56 PM

My Nana has all those books...I love looking at them when I visit! She has some from the 70s too!

A.Mickey

11-13-2009, 10:12 PM

Charleston Princess

11-14-2009, 07:39 AM

What a great find!!! I always get such a kick out of seeing old pictures from Disney World! While I remember 20,000 Leagues clearly (one of my favorite rides ever), I do not remember the canoe rides or the paddleboat by the Contemporary.

MeMom

11-14-2009, 08:39 AM

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4516-Small/712244117_FMqt6-M-1.jpg
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4522-Small/712244170_LcXjL-M.jpg
And I wish I had a robot to do my vacuuming. ;)

Great find! Thanks for sharing.
I enjoyed seeing everything but that death capsule up there. ;)
Like CP, I remember it clearly, but not happily. :upsidedow

I want the vacuuming robot, as well, please, and I'd like to upgrade to one that also dusts. Those are my least favorite chores.

ptcrn

11-14-2009, 02:13 PM

Great find on the book! :thumbsup2 It is so neat looking back at all those old pictures. This one brought back tons of memories:

And now I finally understand why our Figment lovers miss the old Journey into Imagination, this looks really great!:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4526-Small/712243984_ChCtp-M-1.jpg

I have a picture of me and my family walking through this, just about 1985. I remember it being a really cool attraction! I should dig it out and try to scan it.

I am so far behind, but I have to say I loved your Halloween costumes! The apple pie was so creative, and as always, Henry looks adorable in his Cars costume!

Your plans for your trip look great! I agree, I think it is best to do lots of rope drops and leave the afternoons open for "whatever," especially with a bunch of people who aren't used to Disney! I'm sure you'll have a great time no matter how much you do. It is so nice that the in laws are willing and looking forward to taking care of Henry so you and Joe can get some couple time! :woohoo:

Lady Lallie

11-14-2009, 04:29 PM

What a great find and you just can't beat that for 25 cents! :banana:

tiggrbaby

11-14-2009, 09:07 PM

Flossbolna

11-15-2009, 06:14 AM

Love the old pictures and such a cheap find! :thumbsup2

I thought the CR pool still looked familiar and actually, the small pool is still there, just the beach has grown: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30717513&postcount=6

Actually, there are roboters who can vacuum for you available now, but they look rather different, more like a ufo! :lmao: Check this out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roomba I would love to get one, but they are quite expensive. :confused3

And finally, my first glimpse of the old Journey into Imagination ride was on the WDW Radio Show Podcast, when Lou interviewed the former Dreamfinder. It was such an interestig show and I can very much recommend listening to it. It's episode 34: http://www.wdwradio.com/WDW-Radio-Show-Disney-Podcast/Show-34-Sept.-30-2007.html

jenseib

11-15-2009, 08:47 PM

What a cool book. I lvoe old stuff like that too.

PracPerfPatricia

11-15-2009, 08:57 PM

What a fun find...I'll bet you got a huge smile from finding it and looking through it...:goodvibes

I love your intinerary/plans you've made up for you and your family...very sweet of you...

I'll be doing that next year for my inlaws...so sweet but they love tours...they aren't the doing it on your own types...luckily for them their DIL not only likes planning but she is reasonably good at it if she does say so her self...:goodvibes

(btw...how is the sahm business treating you?)

gellybean

11-15-2009, 09:18 PM

:welcome: Glad you found me here!!! I'm so happy to see you back on the DIS more, your TR always made me laugh so much, you are such a great writer!

I'm looking forward to our trip, New Orleans has me a tad nervous since I have never been there and my family is basically trusting me to plan them the vacation....I haven't a clue what to do with that yet! But, I'll figure it out....just gotta do some research. :surfweb: And yep, I'll bring back LOTS of pictures!!!

Thanks Brook!!! I'm glad to be back!! I'm gonna try to get over my pouty self and be on the boards even when I don't have a trip planned. :lmao: Sometimes it's not enough to live vicariously through other people!

I'm go glad you like my TRs!!! :banana: From you, that's a true compliment! :worship: You're one of my faves!

I'm sure your New Orleans trip is going to be fine! You're gonna rock those plans ! And if you don't, the good news is no one will know the difference having never been there ! :lmao:

My first trip was in 86 so that book brings back sooooooo many memories. I was never a fan of 20000 Leagues Under the Sea or the elevator ride down into The Living Seas... but boy do I miss the original JII. I would sing that song the entire trip, much to my family's dismay. :rolleyes1 Of course the song is still there, in the updated JII but it's not the same.... *sighs* I guess our kids will probably feel the same way about the next round of changes. Maybe it's the memories we make... but often times the way things were always seem better than the way things are now...

I also miss Horizons!! I really liked that ride. AND I still say Walter Cronkite was the greatest narrator Spaceship Earth ever had !!!! :worship:

We spend about 1000 a month in CC debt now! :sick: But I know soon it will be done! :teacher:

That book is awesome! I do believe that picture was of the vaccuming robot was from the ride Horizons! Why oh why did they take out Horizons? I miss old Epcot :sad1:. Great Find!!:thumbsup2

I recently found a bunch of old Disneyland records with the books all in tact! I think I bought 12 of them all for a quarter a piece! :woohoo: Here are a few of the finds :). Don't you love it when you stumble across this stuff...and no one else realizes how awesome it is, because they aren't Disney Freaks! :scared1:
http://991.com/newGallery/Disney-All-Country-Bear-Jamb-360661.jpg
http://media.nowpublic.net/images//74/8/74851fc6012828b540d25731d7db3a40.jpg

I found this one rather interesting.
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EQXPQvxgn9A/SBJcwTNrM8I/AAAAAAAAC7s/RfvO6nketSQ/s320/DisneyWizardOfOzST3957LPFront1.jpg

That's sooo funny that you posted that Wizard of Oz book. I was just talking to my mom about it Saturday night.... Weird how things go like that... don't think or talk about something for years and then you see/hear about it twice in two days!

I used to check that book and record out from my speech therapist when I was 4 yrs old and listen to the record OVER and OVER! I would love to get my hands on a copy! Course I wouldn't have a way to listen to the record....
:rolleyes: but still!

:goodvibes for your trip getting closer Brook!!!! Plans looks great, as always!

princess&her4princes

11-15-2009, 10:04 PM

Hey Brook!
GREAT find with the book!!! I do remember a lot of those pics....20,000 leagues, the old figment, Horizons....blast from the past! Thank you!!!

Hope you're well!!! Love the itineraries...you are on SERIOUS COUNTDOWN!!:cool1:

jessily

11-15-2009, 10:07 PM

What a great find:thumbsup2 Thanks for sharing the photos!

jenjolt

11-16-2009, 08:43 AM

WOW what a Disney find!!! That is great Brook!!! I love old Disney stuff!!!!!

Can't wait to hear more about your trip...its coming up so soon LOL!!!

shebaxric

11-16-2009, 01:59 PM

Those images are really neat to see considering the first time I'd seen WDW was in 2001.... interestingly enough, some of the pictures (like the canoes, for example) I remember for DL.

Can you teach me to shop like you?? You always find the great bargains!:lmao:

brookelizabeth

11-16-2009, 04:27 PM

Oh my gosh!!! What a find for sure. I bet you were just giddy to get that extra special book in such great shape! :) What neat pictures!!

I was! I couldn't believe they were only charging a quarter for all their books. Everything in that thrift shop was so cheap - a REAL thrift shop! :thumbsup2

Score! Very neat pictures. Thanks for sharing.

Your welcome! It is so fun to look through over and over.

The night of the 26th we'll be at the Contemporary, we've got a dinner ADR @ The Wave and then a Wishes Cruise! :cool1: The 27th is doable though I think! We have a breakfast ressie at Kona Cafe and then the rest of the day is open until we have to head back to the resort for our ME bus (about mid-afternoon). I had originally thought that we would head to MK after our breakfast, but TGM says to AVOID the MK on that day, so we really don't have set plans; Epcot or DHS were penciled in as possiblities. We could definitely make it Epcot!

Great find on that book! Thanks for sharing.

Sounds GREAT about Epcot! We hope to get there at RD and stay until around Noon, or whenever we can't take the crowds any longer. My family is really excited about seeing Epcot, so we'll be hitting Soarin' and the World Showcase. Do you want to meet up somewhere in the WS, or we could do a ride together?

OMG, that is an awesome book! 1985 was a good year because that's when I was born. LOL! And you are right, it is pre-MGM/DHS. It opened in 1989.

The pre-Nemo pavilion was just called The Living Seas. I can't remember what the original ride was called, if anything. Somewhere we've got an old stack of park maps (we meant to throw them away but they're still lying around somewhere :rolleyes:) so I'll have to see if we have one with The Living Seas. All I remember was that I was kinda bummed when they took it out. It was so cool seeing all the fish! I LOVED the original JII. It was SOOOOOOO awesome! A bit of trivia: I shared this in my August TR but the Dream Machine in those last couple of pictures is now in Mouse Gear!

Don't throw away the old park maps! Pleaaaaaaaaase! I'm a nerd about this stuff, I'll pay you postage to send them to me! I would LOVE to look at them. Geek, I know! :goodvibes

You are a fountain of Disney knowledge! :thumbsup2 That is really cool about the Dream Machine being in Mouse Gear, I must have missed that bit of trivia (or don't remember b/c I didn't know what it was!) in your TR. I'll have to scope it out if I remember in December.

Awesome book!

You're lucky!

Thanks! I was thrilled with the find! That store actually had quite a few random Disney things. Henry got a brand new stuffed Goofy for a quarter too.

The ride pre-Nemo was the Seacabs (http://www.lostepcot.com/livingseas.html) at Seabase Alpha. :thumbsup2

Oooh, with a link. I likee. Thanks!

Shut the front door! I had no idea this PTR was going on! (I mean I knew about the recently passed trip, but I didn't realize it was now a twofer!) I got some catchin up! I just saw the post on the WDW book. That's AWESOME! Best quarter ever spent!

:lmao: :welcome: GB! It was a twofer - it started as just as December, then we threw in the September trip due to our Annual Passes burning holes in our pockets. They are dangerous, but oh, so fun. ;)

That book is too cool!!! Love all the old pics!

ahhh 1985..what a great year....

great pix.

1985...were you born then? ;)

:rotfl:

sorry, had to! :hug:

1985, I was six. I am certain I owned pink and purple striped leg warmers.

My Nana has all those books...I love looking at them when I visit! She has some from the 70s too!

Oooh, that would be really cool! Did they put one out every year?

brookelizabeth

11-16-2009, 04:28 PM

We spend about 1000 a month in CC debt now! :sick: But I know soon it will be done! :teacher:

That book is awesome! I do believe that picture was of the vaccuming robot was from the ride Horizons! Why oh why did they take out Horizons? I miss old Epcot :sad1:. Great Find!!:thumbsup2

I recently found a bunch of old Disneyland records with the books all in tact! I think I bought 12 of them all for a quarter a piece! :woohoo: Here are a few of the finds :). Don't you love it when you stumble across this stuff...and no one else realizes how awesome it is, because they aren't Disney Freaks! :scared1:
http://991.com/newGallery/Disney-All-Country-Bear-Jamb-360661.jpg
http://media.nowpublic.net/images//74/8/74851fc6012828b540d25731d7db3a40.jpg

I found this one rather interesting.
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EQXPQvxgn9A/SBJcwTNrM8I/AAAAAAAAC7s/RfvO6nketSQ/s320/DisneyWizardOfOzST3957LPFront1.jpg

Horizons...I think I remember reading a bit about that ride - where was it, and what was it? The book just says something along the lines of "an attraction in Epcot" rather than giving a name. I just assumed it was Innoventions-like sort of thing.

Those records are COOL! Love it! And yes, gotta love the random finds!!!!

What a great find!!! I always get such a kick out of seeing old pictures from Disney World! While I remember 20,000 Leagues clearly (one of my favorite rides ever), I do not remember the canoe rides or the paddleboat by the Contemporary.

Since our first trip was in 2006, I can only imagine some of the old great stuff! I so wish I could have gone earlier in life! It will be fun to see it change over the next 50 years though, and then look back at 2006 and comment about how much it has changed. :laughing:

Great find! Thanks for sharing.
I enjoyed seeing everything but that death capsule up there. ;)
Like CP, I remember it clearly, but not happily. :upsidedow

I want the vacuuming robot, as well, please, and I'd like to upgrade to one that also dusts. Those are my least favorite chores.

Oh, I forgot to warn you about the Death Capsule! :hug: I have to ask...did you ever ride it, or just steer clear?

Ooh, I like your thinkin'. I'll take one that washes dishes!

Great find on the book! :thumbsup2 It is so neat looking back at all those old pictures. This one brought back tons of memories:

I have a picture of me and my family walking through this, just about 1985. I remember it being a really cool attraction! I should dig it out and try to scan it.

I am so far behind, but I have to say I loved your Halloween costumes! The apple pie was so creative, and as always, Henry looks adorable in his Cars costume!

Your plans for your trip look great! I agree, I think it is best to do lots of rope drops and leave the afternoons open for "whatever," especially with a bunch of people who aren't used to Disney! I'm sure you'll have a great time no matter how much you do. It is so nice that the in laws are willing and looking forward to taking care of Henry so you and Joe can get some couple time! :woohoo:

If you do find that picture, please share it! I would LOVE to see more old Disney pictures. :yay:

My in-laws are just awesome. We are very much looking forward to going out at night - Joe just wants to ride all the thrill rides with me so he can hear me scream like a banshee like I always do. He just laughs the entire way! :rotfl:

What a great find and you just can't beat that for 25 cents! :banana:

I know it! I should really go back and see what new treasures they might have...

brookelizabeth

11-16-2009, 04:28 PM

What a great book! I remember going on the canoes; it was either '72 or '75 or both! I remember looking forward to taking my kids on them in the '90s and was disappointed to see them gone! and my mother was VERY disappointed this past week to see the change in the Figment ride!

DH and I are planning on driving over to have lunch at Sanaa on 12/30. We (actually just I!) are planning on going around the resorts to see the decorations. I am very excited! I just hope DH doesn't change his mind!

Why did they take out the canoes? I think that is so cool! Kids would get very into that I think!

The old Figment looks totally awesome from those pictures. The current one was okay-it totally freaked Henry out back in January, but we'll try it again sometime and I'm sure he'll like it.

We might be around the resort at lunch time on 12/30! Our current plans for that day are to do AK in the AM, and return whenever we want to escape the crowds. What time is your ADR? Perhaps we can meet up with you in the lobby and take in the resort some! I am really looking forward to seeing AKV's decorations. AKL's always look SO amazing in pictures, I finally get to see it in real life!!! :yay:

Love the old pictures and such a cheap find! :thumbsup2

I thought the CR pool still looked familiar and actually, the small pool is still there, just the beach has grown: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=30717513&postcount=6

Actually, there are roboters who can vacuum for you available now, but they look rather different, more like a ufo! :lmao: Check this out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roomba I would love to get one, but they are quite expensive. :confused3

And finally, my first glimpse of the old Journey into Imagination ride was on the WDW Radio Show Podcast, when Lou interviewed the former Dreamfinder. It was such an interestig show and I can very much recommend listening to it. It's episode 34: http://www.wdwradio.com/WDW-Radio-Show-Disney-Podcast/Show-34-Sept.-30-2007.html

Ah! When we were at the CR for a short while that whole area was under construction, so I never saw it. Very cool that it is still there, I like how it's practically on the lake. Is it just another pool, or a kiddy pool, or ???

I have heard of the Roombas! They do look awesome, and how very handy. But, ya, that price tag isn't so pretty! :scared:

THANK YOU for the link to the WDW Radio Podcast show! I look forward to listening to it - hopefully tonight I can DIS and listen. I really enjoy reading about/hearing/seeing the old Disney World!

What a cool book. I lvoe old stuff like that too.

It's so much fun to page through. There are a couple pictures of River Country too that I didn't post.

What a fun find...I'll bet you got a huge smile from finding it and looking through it...:goodvibes

I love your intinerary/plans you've made up for you and your family...very sweet of you...

I'll be doing that next year for my inlaws...so sweet but they love tours...they aren't the doing it on your own types...luckily for them their DIL not only likes planning but she is reasonably good at it if she does say so her self...:goodvibes

(btw...how is the sahm business treating you?)

I'm glad my in-laws like the scheduled days too - it really makes things easier that I can just say "Today we are doing THIS." and they will all just come along instead of someone thinking they want to do this or that, and it taking forever to decide what to do! That would just be a headache.

Are you inlaws coming with you on Alice's birthday trip?

The SAHM business is doing very well! I am really loving it. I already find myself wondering how I did it with working. Oh ya, we did everything last minute, I was way more exhausted and crabby! ;) It's been really great - I love teaching Henry new things, its amazing to see him learn!

Thanks Brook!!! I'm glad to be back!! I'm gonna try to get over my pouty self and be on the boards even when I don't have a trip planned. :lmao: Sometimes it's not enough to live vicariously through other people!

I'm go glad you like my TRs!!! :banana: From you, that's a true compliment! :worship: You're one of my faves!

I'm sure your New Orleans trip is going to be fine! You're gonna rock those plans ! And if you don't, the good news is no one will know the difference having never been there ! :lmao:

My first trip was in 86 so that book brings back sooooooo many memories. I was never a fan of 20000 Leagues Under the Sea or the elevator ride down into The Living Seas... but boy do I miss the original JII. I would sing that song the entire trip, much to my family's dismay. :rolleyes1 Of course the song is still there, in the updated JII but it's not the same.... *sighs* I guess our kids will probably feel the same way about the next round of changes. Maybe it's the memories we make... but often times the way things were always seem better than the way things are now...

I also miss Horizons!! I really liked that ride. AND I still say Walter Cronkite was the greatest narrator Spaceship Earth ever had !!!! :worship:

That's sooo funny that you posted that Wizard of Oz book. I was just talking to my mom about it Saturday night.... Weird how things go like that... don't think or talk about something for years and then you see/hear about it twice in two days!

I used to check that book and record out from my speech therapist when I was 4 yrs old and listen to the record OVER and OVER! I would love to get my hands on a copy! Course I wouldn't have a way to listen to the record....
:rolleyes: but still!

:goodvibes for your trip getting closer Brook!!!! Plans looks great, as always!

I am so glad the book brought back some great memories! I was hoping it would for you Disney Vets. :goodvibes

I like your theory on if the trip completely bombs - they will never know the difference, will they?! :rotfl:

Hey Brook!
GREAT find with the book!!! I do remember a lot of those pics....20,000 leagues, the old figment, Horizons....blast from the past! Thank you!!!

Hope you're well!!! Love the itineraries...you are on SERIOUS COUNTDOWN!!:cool1:

Glad it brought back some memories! It's really fun to look at, even though I don't have memories tied to the things that aren't there anymore. I hope I can find more stuff like this!

I know it about the countdown...I gotta get crackin' on making the countdown for Henry, just 40 days!!!! Eeeeeeeeeee! :dance3:

What a great find:thumbsup2 Thanks for sharing the photos!

Your welcome! It's so fun to look at!

WOW what a Disney find!!! That is great Brook!!! I love old Disney stuff!!!!!

Can't wait to hear more about your trip...its coming up so soon LOL!!!

I love the old Disney stuff too, even if I don't know much about it, lol! :goodvibes

I have quite a few more posts in me for this PTR, I hope to get one done this week yet. Lots of planning going on!

Those images are really neat to see considering the first time I'd seen WDW was in 2001.... interestingly enough, some of the pictures (like the canoes, for example) I remember for DL.

Can you teach me to shop like you?? You always find the great bargains!:lmao:

Oooh, DL had the canoes too, huh? I think those would be SO neat!! I wish they still had them.

:rotfl: Trust me, that was a RARE find. My Aunt though can find anything for next to nothing, she is an awesome shopper! She used to run a business called "Trash to Treasures" where she would buy old stuff, re-purpose it, and sell it. She is amazing!

However, I have to admit, I am becoming quite a couponer, so stuff in the stores I can get for next to nothing! :dance3:

SoonerGirl

11-16-2009, 05:20 PM

Sounds GREAT about Epcot! We hope to get there at RD and stay until around Noon, or whenever we can't take the crowds any longer. My family is really excited about seeing Epcot, so we'll be hitting Soarin' and the World Showcase. Do you want to meet up somewhere in the WS, or we could do a ride together?

Either one works for me! I'll send you my cell number before we leave so we can touch base that morning. Our ADR is for 8:30, so I would imagine we'd be in the park by 9:30 or 10 at the latest. We'll talk more about it as it gets closer - I'm almost at the 30 day mark!!! :woohoo:

Oooh, DL had the canoes too, huh? I think those would be SO neat!! I wish they still had them.

Actually, DL still has the canoes! We saw people paddling in them when we went last summer, but we never had time to fit it in. Don't know why they did away with the attraction at WDW :confused3

TyRy

11-16-2009, 06:49 PM

Your plan looks great Brook. Lots of flex time which you'll probably need depending on the crowds.

Love the book and pictures...what a great find!

tiggrbaby

11-16-2009, 06:57 PM

[quote=brookelizabeth;34356730]Why did they take out the canoes? I think that is so cool! Kids would get very into that I think!

The old Figment looks totally awesome from those pictures. The current one was okay-it totally freaked Henry out back in January, but we'll try it again sometime and I'm sure he'll like it.

We might be around the resort at lunch time on 12/30! Our current plans for that day are to do AK in the AM, and return whenever we want to escape the crowds. What time is your ADR? Perhaps we can meet up with you in the lobby and take in the resort some! I am really looking forward to seeing AKV's decorations. AKL's always look SO amazing in pictures, I finally get to see it in real life!!! :yay:

That sounds like fun! I made a 2:10 ressies as we are coming from Venice, which is where his parents live, and DH is not a morning person!

A.Mickey

11-16-2009, 09:08 PM

Horizons...I think I remember reading a bit about that ride - where was it, and what was it? The book just says something along the lines of "an attraction in Epcot" rather than giving a name. I just assumed it was Innoventions-like sort of thing.

Those records are COOL! Love it! And yes, gotta love the random finds!!!!

Since our first trip was in 2006, I can only imagine some of the old great stuff! I so wish I could have gone earlier in life! It will be fun to see it change over the next 50 years though, and then look back at 2006 and comment about how much it has changed. :laughing:

Wow! I didn't realize that you hadn't gone before 2006! You are already such a pro at the planning and trip reporting I just assumed you have been going forever! That is awesome that you got bit by the Disney bug so quickly!!!

HORIZONS was the most awesomest RIDE ever! I miss all of old Epcot actually. World of Motion, Horizons, the old Universe of Energy, the old Journey into Imagination and

You can read and watch videos about Horizons here http://www.horizons1.com/

It was a ride where you see the future of the family and just the future in general. I remember the under water city and the farm crops in the desert. Gosh I miss it!

brookelizabeth

11-25-2009, 04:37 PM

Either one works for me! I'll send you my cell number before we leave so we can touch base that morning. Our ADR is for 8:30, so I would imagine we'd be in the park by 9:30 or 10 at the latest. We'll talk more about it as it gets closer - I'm almost at the 30 day mark!!! :woohoo:

Actually, DL still has the canoes! We saw people paddling in them when we went last summer, but we never had time to fit it in. Don't know why they did away with the attraction at WDW :confused3

Sounds great!! I find it very hard to believe we are going to be at the 30 day mark TOMORROW. :banana: Thankfully most stuff is falling into place already and the details are getting taken care of. :thumbsup2 I need to update!

That is so neat about DL still having the canoes! We hope to go there in maybe 2012 when Cars Land opens, so we'll have to fit in the canoes too.

Your plan looks great Brook. Lots of flex time which you'll probably need depending on the crowds.

Love the book and pictures...what a great find!

Part of me is thinking we should skip the EMH mornings and just go to a different park, like TouringPlans.com says, but we do plan to leave - so EMH mornings *should* work. I hope!

[quote=brookelizabeth;34356730]
That sounds like fun! I made a 2:10 ressies as we are coming from Venice, which is where his parents live, and DH is not a morning person!

We should be around the resort that day, we could meet up! I'll write myself a note to PM you my cell number if it works out! :goodvibes

Wow! I didn't realize that you hadn't gone before 2006! You are already such a pro at the planning and trip reporting I just assumed you have been going forever! That is awesome that you got bit by the Disney bug so quickly!!!

HORIZONS was the most awesomest RIDE ever! I miss all of old Epcot actually. World of Motion, Horizons, the old Universe of Energy, the old Journey into Imagination and

You can read and watch videos about Horizons here http://www.horizons1.com/

It was a ride where you see the future of the family and just the future in general. I remember the under water city and the farm crops in the desert. Gosh I miss it!

Aw, thanks for calling me a pro! :rotfl: it's only because of the INSANE number of hours I have logged here. :rotfl2:

Horizons sounds amazing! It's such a shame it's gone!!! :sad2: I am book marking the site for when I have more time to read about it!

Since you know the old EPCOT, was the Odessy building (where they have the baby care center) ever anything? What is the majority of it for? Offices or a banquet hall?

SoonerGirl

11-25-2009, 04:44 PM

Sounds great!! I find it very hard to believe we are going to be at the 30 day mark TOMORROW. :banana: Thankfully most stuff is falling into place already and the details are getting taken care of. :thumbsup2 I need to update!

That is so neat about DL still having the canoes! We hope to go there in maybe 2012 when Cars Land opens, so we'll have to fit in the canoes too.

Isn't it exciting that the trip is finally so close?! We started our 30 day countdown last week - we're @ 24 and counting!! :woohoo:

I want to go back to DL when they finish all the CA revisions too, I think Cars Land will be so cool!

brookelizabeth

11-25-2009, 05:01 PM

A while back now I got a very surprising, and wonderful PM from a dear fellow DISer whom you all know as mickeysmyboy.

Knowing I was a fan of the PassPorter, and on the route to purchase a Deluxe PassPorter, Melissa PMed me asking me if I WANTED hers. :eek: She no longer used it, and would be happy to pass it onto someone who she knew would enjoy and use it.

Needless to say I was shocked and THRILLED!

I thanked her a million times over, gushed to Joe, and I have to say it again...

THANK YOU!!!!

I have had this little beauty in my hands for a while now

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4858-Small/723871922_sDDe4-M.jpg

And a couple weeks ago PassPorter had their "free Media Mail" shipping deal, so I jumped at the chance and purchased a new envelope system. It arrived in the mail...

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4857-Small/723871937_67ruG-M.jpg

And I got our PassPorter all decked out!

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4859-Small/723871928_cHJQH-M.jpg

There are many other things that will be filling the pockets soon, but it is SO NICE to have all those cards in one safe spot just waiting to be used in 31 days. :thumbsup2

So, thank you once again - it was such a nice surprise, and came at a perfect time as we are adjusting our budget with me staying home, and trying to save all our pennies for Christmas and the trip. :hug:

Also in the mail came...

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4825-Small/723876344_SLmdP-M.jpg

6 day park hoppers for the in-laws! :yay:

Getting these made the trip seem REAL. It's really happening. We are taking 3 newbies to Disney World during NYE week. :eek: :woohoo:

And a hotel change....

TyRy mentioned a few pages back of a hotel called "Hotel St. Marie" in NOLA, she had stayed there previously (for your honeymoon, correct?). I looked them up and the prices were looking VERY nice!!

Long story short - Joe, Henry and I will now be staying at Hotel St. Marie and saving almost $100! :dance3: Poppa, Grammy and KK are sticking with the original hotel because the price came out to be exactly the same with 3 adults in 1 room. The hotels are only a few blocks apart, and just 2.5 blocks from the wedding site.

So a huge thanks to TyRy!!!!!

DISers truly are the best people!!! You both have made this trip even better!

Joe and I made our grocery order this morning, but I'll save that, along with the required travel toiletries, bag and shoe choices, for a future update. :goodvibes

brookelizabeth

11-25-2009, 05:03 PM

Isn't it exciting that the trip is finally so close?! We started our 30 day countdown last week - we're @ 24 and counting!! :woohoo:

I want to go back to DL when they finish all the CA revisions too, I think Cars Land will be so cool!

These last couple weeks are gonna fly! I'm already feeling the rush of the holidays with so much to do. I love it!

The Cars Land looks amazing! If it were there now, we would probably push for that next year being that Henry is such a nut about it. :laughing: I'm sure he'll still like it in a few years though, especially with #2 coming out.

jordanyosh

11-25-2009, 06:26 PM

Wow that Passporter is nice!!!!! Kinda reminds one of the Dayrunners people used carry around.

I just googled the hotel myself...very nice!!!!!!

I think you'll have a grand time.

Charleston Princess

11-25-2009, 07:05 PM

I am loving the Passporter with spaces for all your cards!!! How sweet of a fellow DISer to pass it along to you! :goodvibes

tiggrbaby

11-25-2009, 08:08 PM

[quote=tiggrbaby;34358576]

We should be around the resort that day, we could meet up! I'll write myself a note to PM you my cell number if it works out! :goodvibes

That sounds great!

Since you know the old EPCOT, was the Odessy building (where they have the baby care center) ever anything? What is the majority of it for? Offices or a banquet hall?

I can answer this from experience! Back in Jan. '93, it was a counter service restaurant that had characters. We took our then DS5 and DS 18 mo. DS 5 had a great time, the younger one screamed every time a character came near!

A.Mickey

11-25-2009, 09:32 PM

Yep the counter service restaurant opened in 1982 and closed in 1994. I guess there is a castmember cafeteria in the back.

That passporter looks kinda cool! What is it exactly? I like all the slots for your important cards ;). Woo hoo! Way to save some money!!

Lady Lallie

11-25-2009, 11:07 PM

I had to quickly scroll those the passporter photos or I'd be ordering one this weekend. :rolleyes1 I am sucker for anything organizational.

Great deal on the hotel, $100 cheaper is great! :thumbsup2

jordanyosh

11-25-2009, 11:12 PM

I had to quickly scroll those the passporter photos or I'd be ordering one this weekend. :rolleyes1 I am sucker for anything organizational.

Me too.....

Flossbolna

11-26-2009, 03:27 AM

Getting a passporter and a cheaper hotel is great! DISers really are a wonderful community! :thumbsup2

Part of me is thinking we should skip the EMH mornings and just go to a different park, like TouringPlans.com says, but we do plan to leave - so EMH mornings *should* work. I hope!

I am sure you are right about going to EMH IF you manage to be there for opening! I remember that Len Testa of the UG regularly says on the WDWToday podcast that the reason they say to stay away from EMH days is that people don't manage to be there for opening. But if you are there for RD and leave once the park becomes too crowded, they really work! :thumbsup2

MeMom

11-26-2009, 07:52 AM

Wishing you, Henry, and Joe a beautiful Thanksgiving Day!

brookelizabeth

11-26-2009, 10:13 AM

Today I am thankful for many things.

One of them is that we are at 30 DAYS and we get to start our countdown today!!!!

:dance3:

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Enjoy!!!

Charleston Princess

11-27-2009, 09:09 AM

Happy Thanksgiving, Brook!!!

Woo hoo for being at less than 30 days now!!! :banana:

SoonerGirl

11-27-2009, 10:54 AM

Yay for being able to start your 30 day countdown!! :banana::woohoo::yay::cool1:

Hope you had a great Thanksgiving!

TyRy

11-28-2009, 10:30 AM

Getting these made the trip seem REAL. It's really happening. We are taking 3 newbies to Disney World during NYE week. :eek: :woohoo:!!!

I love when the trip finally starts to feel like that. :yay: for 30 days!!!

And a hotel change....

TyRy mentioned a few pages back of a hotel called "Hotel St. Marie" in NOLA, she had stayed there previously (for your honeymoon, correct?). I looked them up and the prices were looking VERY nice!!

Long story short - Joe, Henry and I will now be staying at Hotel St. Marie and saving almost $100! :dance3: Poppa, Grammy and KK are sticking with the original hotel because the price came out to be exactly the same with 3 adults in 1 room. The hotels are only a few blocks apart, and just 2.5 blocks from the wedding site.

So a huge thanks to TyRy!!!!!

DISers truly are the best people!!! You both have made this trip even better!!!!

You are very welcome. We loved the hotel, and yep, it was for our honeymoon. It's small, nice and right in the center of everything. Every time we've talked about going back, we knew that we would stay there. I can't wait to hear what you think of it and see pictures! I'm hoping it's still great! :rolleyes1

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Enjoy!!!

Hope yours was great too!

Lovemy3babes

11-30-2009, 03:54 PM

What nice Dis'ers!!! Yay Brook! And yay for 30 days! (We leave in 5 and I'm a nervous wreck!)

princess&her4princes

11-30-2009, 08:32 PM

Yay for 30 days!!!:cool1: And don't you just LOVE DISers?! They are the BEST!!!!!:thumbsup2

brookelizabeth

12-02-2009, 02:59 PM

Wow that Passporter is nice!!!!! Kinda reminds one of the Dayrunners people used carry around.

I just googled the hotel myself...very nice!!!!!!

I think you'll have a grand time.

It has a similar feel to a Dayrunner, expect on the inside is maps and WDW info instead of a calendar and all - otherwise, very pretty much the same, a spot for cards, notes, and a pen. :thumbsup2

I am loving the Passporter with spaces for all your cards!!! How sweet of a fellow DISer to pass it along to you! :goodvibes

It is a very, very nice Passporter! I'm thrilled with it, and love all the little slots for the cards. It will make it much easier to keep track of!

I can answer this from experience! Back in Jan. '93, it was a counter service restaurant that had characters. We took our then DS5 and DS 18 mo. DS 5 had a great time, the younger one screamed every time a character came near!

Ah! How cool! I wish they still had a CS with characters that would be perfect for the little ones! (unless they are screaming...;))

Yep the counter service restaurant opened in 1982 and closed in 1994. I guess there is a castmember cafeteria in the back.

That passporter looks kinda cool! What is it exactly? I like all the slots for your important cards ;). Woo hoo! Way to save some money!!

It's really too bad they closed it! Joe and I peeked in between the curtains one time and from what we could tell it did look like a cafeteria or a banquet hall of some sort.

I love the slots for the cards! I usually stick them in my Baggalini in the front for easy access, but they sometimes get moved around too much in there and I can't find the one I need. This will be very handy!

I had to quickly scroll those the passporter photos or I'd be ordering one this weekend. :rolleyes1 I am sucker for anything organizational.

Great deal on the hotel, $100 cheaper is great! :thumbsup2

:rotfl: I'm the same way! I'm always looking at little containers/baskets, etc. at the store wanting to buy them ALL. ::yes::

I was thrilled to save the 100 bucks! We really need to pinch every corner we can on this trip!

Me too.....

:rotfl2: :goodvibes

Getting a passporter and a cheaper hotel is great! DISers really are a wonderful community! :thumbsup2

I am sure you are right about going to EMH IF you manage to be there for opening! I remember that Len Testa of the UG regularly says on the WDWToday podcast that the reason they say to stay away from EMH days is that people don't manage to be there for opening. But if you are there for RD and leave once the park becomes too crowded, they really work! :thumbsup2

Ah! That is great to hear! I haven't listened much to the WDWToday Podcast, but use their site for the touring plans (as you know). It's a relief to hear he says that. :yay: We should make RD, my MIL is an early bird and she'll be up getting the coffee brewing, etc. while the rest of us peel ourselves out of bed. :goodvibes

Wishing you, Henry, and Joe a beautiful Thanksgiving Day!

Thank you MeMom! It was a great holiday!

Happy Thanksgiving, Brook!!!

Woo hoo for being at less than 30 days now!!! :banana:

Thanks CP! I cannot believe how quickly the days are FLYING. :eek:

Yay for being able to start your 30 day countdown!! :banana::woohoo::yay::cool1:

Hope you had a great Thanksgiving!

We did! We were at Joe's parent's this year, it was a small gathering but a lot of fun, a lot of food, and lots of card games. :thumbsup2 The kids played, played, played!

I love when the trip finally starts to feel like that. :yay: for 30 days!!!

You are very welcome. We loved the hotel, and yep, it was for our honeymoon. It's small, nice and right in the center of everything. Every time we've talked about going back, we knew that we would stay there. I can't wait to hear what you think of it and see pictures! I'm hoping it's still great! :rolleyes1

Hope yours was great too!

It has really good reviews on TripAdvisor.com, so I'm pretty confident that it will be a good one!! Thank you again sooooo much for sending me that way. We truly are pinching our pennies for this trip, so the extra $100 saved is a LOT for us right now.

I will come back with a boatload of pictures!!!

What nice Dis'ers!!! Yay Brook! And yay for 30 days! (We leave in 5 and I'm a nervous wreck!)

I hope you are able to get everything done, and that the nerves go away and turn into excitement!!! I'm getting nervous about our trip now due to the sheer amount of things I need to get done.

I hope you have a very magical trip!!!!!! Bring back lots of pics to share. :goodvibes

Yay for 30 days!!!:cool1: And don't you just LOVE DISers?! They are the BEST!!!!!

They really are!!!! So incredibly helpful and kind!

brookelizabeth

12-02-2009, 03:17 PM

24 days.

Twenty-four! I'm starting to get nervous and anxious about everything I have to do in the next few weeks.

Despite that, I'm more than happy to say...

"WE ARE GOING TO DISNEY WORLD THIS MONTH!"

:yay::yay::yay:

Here is an updated To Do list, a few things added, and some have actually gotten done:

Life

Finish Christmas shopping
Wrap Christmas gifts
Write Christmas letter

Send Christmas cards
Clean house week before we leave
Stop mail
Finish September Trip Report!!!!

Disney

Print basic trip plan for in-laws and fill in Passporter
Organize travel toiletries
Pack (we can do this at anytime considering how cold MN is now!)
Buy a bunch of non-perishable items, send box to resort

Figure out how much and get cash for tips
Clean out stroller and car seat
Charge electronics
Make the inevitable 838 trips to Target for last minute things - I think I've made about 721 so far. ;)

Reserve parking spot at Park N Fly - Joe's to do list, I just have to make sure he does it!

Get basic touring plan done for parks, "must do's" - DONE
Research scooters for Poppa - DONE
In-laws need to buy tickets - DONE

Plan in-room meals - DONE
Set up details of NYE meet with MeMom - DONE

But Passporter inserts - DONE
Make grocery list - DONE

Put in WeGoShop order - DONE
Get countdown calendar ready with stickers for Henry - DONE
Make budget so I have a clue what we can expect to spend while there - DONE

NOLA

Buy wedding present for the happy couple!
Research cheap/free things to do

Get a basic map of the area, walking map?
Go back to early pages of this PTR and re-read all NOLA advice given, take notes, commit to memory! ;)
Try to find a cheaper hotel - DONE :dance3:

Looking back over my list, I have gotten quite a bit done, it just doesn't feel like it. I know it's the pre-trip anxiety and it is coupled right along with second guessing every detail of the trip that has been set for months. Everything from resort to ADRs. Thankfully it's near impossible to change stuff this time of year, so we are locked in! :laughing:

I have each of the above items scheduled as a "to do" for each day up until the trip in my daily planner. The "print basic plan for in-laws and fill in Passporter" was for Saturday. I'm still working on it. :rolleyes: So, the next two items, haven't even gotten started on. I think I just might skip to the toiletries for today though, it should be an easy one and I need to knock SOMETHING off this list before I start to fully panic!

Just wait until you see how many travel toiletries I have.... Jordan, you might need to take a Valium....

jordanyosh

12-02-2009, 03:30 PM

Lovemy3babes

12-02-2009, 04:58 PM

jenjolt

12-02-2009, 05:01 PM

WOW!! What a to do list!!! Time is going to fly by so fast!!!!! YES you can say you are going to Disney this month WOOT!!!!

GreatBiscuit

12-02-2009, 06:58 PM

24 Day dance! :cool1: Good luck on the to-do list. I'm sure it'll all come together. That last line had me cracking up.

Lady Lallie

12-02-2009, 08:20 PM

What is about miniature sized items that make us all a flutter? :rotfl2:

You can conquer that to do list! :banana:

A.Mickey

12-02-2009, 09:12 PM

If you can manage to knock off two things a day for the next 10 days you will be done with your list and have two full weeks before your trip to just relax!

Doesn't that make it sound better :hug:

Woo hoo! And that was my 1000th Post!

mickeysmyboy

12-02-2009, 09:28 PM

Charleston Princess

12-02-2009, 09:48 PM

Oh, I am all kinds of excited to see the travel-sizes!!! :lmao:

Jordan, I just got trained on how to use a defibulator today if you do go into cardiac arrest. :laughing:

MeMom

12-02-2009, 10:14 PM

Oh Brook, you are way ahead of me lady. I haven't got the suitcases out, haven't got cash, none of the neccessities. And we have 3 days left. That's it! I think you're doing great! :) Hopefully we can get it all done.

You have a lot to do, girlie!

I guess I'm pretending we don't have a trip coming up, either, because I haven't really thought about it much. School testing is involved right now, and then all this stuff with my student's fire. I haven't been in planning mode at all. It'll have to wait until school is out, but definitely before three days prior to leaving! :laughing:

wdwgirl03

12-03-2009, 07:59 AM

Woo hoo, this month! Wish I was going this month. I'm getting so jealous seeing all the Christmas pictures and reading about everyone's holiday trips. I have decided I must go again next Christmas. :laughing:

SoonerGirl

12-03-2009, 10:59 AM

Your list looks ALMOST as bad as mine - and I have one less week to get it all done! Obviously, I'm in denial because I'm sitting here on the DIS instead of working on the list..... :rolleyes1

Lovemy3babes

12-03-2009, 02:29 PM

You have a lot to do, girlie!

I guess I'm pretending we don't have a trip coming up, either, because I haven't really thought about it much. School testing is involved right now, and then all this stuff with my student's fire. I haven't been in planning mode at all. It'll have to wait until school is out, but definitely before three days prior to leaving! :laughing:

Come help me MeMom! I have no one IRL to help me and I'm feeling so overwhelmed. I think the holidays that are fast approaching also are throwing me for a loop. We'll make it there somehow. ;)

PopArtGal

12-03-2009, 05:32 PM

You guys are so lucky to be leaving this month.

I am so in need of a vacation (anywhere) that I could cry :)

princess&her4princes

12-03-2009, 07:24 PM

WOOHOO this is THE MONTH!!!!!!!!!!!:dance3::dance3::dance3:

brookelizabeth

12-03-2009, 10:04 PM

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

:lmao::lmao::lmao:

That last line had me laughing so hard! I hope no one is walking by the window to my office right now. Let me look...phew.

I may go into cardiac arrest. Where are the paddles?

Hee hee. Glad it made you laugh.........and at work!! :thumbsup2

Oh Brook, you are way ahead of me lady. I haven't got the suitcases out, haven't got cash, none of the neccessities. And we have 3 days left. That's it! I think you're doing great! :) Hopefully we can get it all done.

We don't have the suitcases out yet, but I hope to pull them out next week! We almost always pack just a day or two in advance, but I'm hoping to get some of it done earlier than that this time.

Two days for you!! Those last two days are always full of activity - I hope they go smoothly for you!!

WOW!! What a to do list!!! Time is going to fly by so fast!!!!! YES you can say you are going to Disney this month WOOT!!!!

And I keep thinking of things I have to add to it.....like ME RESERVATIONS! :eek: :headache: I realized I haven't done that yet...:rolleyes1

24 Day dance! :cool1: Good luck on the to-do list. I'm sure it'll all come together. That last line had me cracking up.

I'm sure it will all come together too, I just need to keep working on it so not everything is left to the last couple of days.

What is about miniature sized items that make us all a flutter? :rotfl2:

You can conquer that to do list! :banana:

I love me some travel items too! I like that they mean I am going on a trip. ::yes::

If you can manage to knock off two things a day for the next 10 days you will be done with your list and have two full weeks before your trip to just relax!

Doesn't that make it sound better :hug:

Woo hoo! And that was my 1000th Post!

I like that idea! Chances of knocking 2 off a day is slim on some days, but even if I can finish a week in advance that would be nice!!

Congratulations on your 1000th post! :dance3:

brookelizabeth

12-03-2009, 10:04 PM

I'm so glad you guys like the passporter and someone who loves disney is getting good use out of it!!

Yippee for getting a cheaper hotel on NOLA!!

I agree with the thought that if you get 2 things done a day you'll have time to rest and relax before the trip! Sounds loike a great idea!!

I can't believe your trip is coming up so fast!!!

I have to get over to your TR and catchup there!!

I really do love that Passporter! It's already getting use sitting right next to my laptop and is referenced daily. :thumbsup2

I do like that 2 a day theory....I just don't know if it's possible for some of those tasks. But, even if I finish one week early, I'll love it!

There probably isn't much to catch up on over at my TR, :rotfl: I updated today, but prior to that it was before Thanksgiving!

Oh, I am all kinds of excited to see the travel-sizes!!! :lmao:

Jordan, I just got trained on how to use a defibulator today if you do go into cardiac arrest. :laughing:

I made sure to document my plethora of travel sized items. :goodvibes That update will hopefully be ready tomorrow.

:rotfl: too funny about the defibrillator!!!!

You have a lot to do, girlie!

I guess I'm pretending we don't have a trip coming up, either, because I haven't really thought about it much. School testing is involved right now, and then all this stuff with my student's fire. I haven't been in planning mode at all. It'll have to wait until school is out, but definitely before three days prior to leaving! :laughing:

:rotfl2: 3 days prior to leaving! MeMom! How are you going to do that?! :rotfl: Jill takes care of the "plan of attack" on the parks though, right? That is what sucks up a lot of my time. The crowds have me a tad nervous too.

Woo hoo, this month! Wish I was going this month. I'm getting so jealous seeing all the Christmas pictures and reading about everyone's holiday trips. I have decided I must go again next Christmas. :laughing:

Ah, don't you love the way the DIS enables you? :goodvibes I am getting very excited about seeing it all - we've just seen MK decked out last year in November....and the Epcot tree. Seeing all the resorts, seeing the Candlelight Processional and all that will be awesome!

Your list looks ALMOST as bad as mine - and I have one less week to get it all done! Obviously, I'm in denial because I'm sitting here on the DIS instead of working on the list..... :rolleyes1

Oh no!!! :rotfl2: But, I understand - most of the time I'm not this on top of things....usually I am in denial until about a week prior, then I go into crazy mode!

Come help me MeMom! I have no one IRL to help me and I'm feeling so overwhelmed. I think the holidays that are fast approaching also are throwing me for a loop. We'll make it there somehow. ;)

I agree - with the holidays it just adds a whole 'nother list of things to do! That alone is a lot, then planning a vacation on top of it--whew!

You guys are so lucky to be leaving this month.

I am so in need of a vacation (anywhere) that I could cry :)

Oooooh, that stinks, I'm sorry to hear that. :hug: Are you able to escape to anywhere, anytime soon?

WOOHOO this is THE MONTH!!!!!!!!!!!:dance3::dance3::dance3:

It's hard to believe!!! It's here, it's here!!! :yay:

jordanyosh

12-03-2009, 10:14 PM

Can't.Wait.To.See.Travel.Aisle.Items. I wish there was a rabid dog smilie...:)

rustysfr56

12-04-2009, 01:48 PM

woooooooooowwwwwww!!!!!!! :scared1: The last time I read this report it was on the 25th page or so....talk about being M.I.A on the disboards for forever!! I had a marathon disboard reading experience :surfweb:..but I love it haha! I've missed reading your trip reports-I look foward to reading more!

p.s-A little belated but, glad your foot is better!:thumbsup2

brookelizabeth

12-04-2009, 04:13 PM

Can't.Wait.To.See.Travel.Aisle.Items. I wish there was a rabid dog smilie...:)

There is this :hyper: Not quite the same, but....

Travel Items pictures are being downloaded as I type.

woooooooooowwwwwww!!!!!!! :scared1: The last time I read this report it was on the 25th page or so....talk about being M.I.A on the disboards for forever!! I had a marathon disboard reading experience :surfweb:..but I love it haha! I've missed reading your trip reports-I look foward to reading more!

p.s-A little belated but, glad your foot is better!:thumbsup2

Hey! Welcome back!! :goodvibes Thank you on the foot. I am RELIEVED it is better, I haven't had any pain since just before the trip!

jordanyosh

12-04-2009, 04:34 PM

There is this :hyper: Not quite the same, but....
:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:Close enough huh...

Travel Items pictures are being downloaded as I type.

I'm like Pavlov's dog...I'm salivating...

brookelizabeth

12-04-2009, 04:41 PM

About 3 months ago I started seriously couponing. Some of you know this (and read my blog about it)...often times there are coupons for $1.00 off any size of a certain item, like Tide detergent. Generally people use this for a larger sized Tide. I do too.

However, when I don't need Tide, and the coupon is about to expire, I use these coupons for items from the Travel Aisle. This means they are generally FREE. ::yes:: I like free.

On top of that, I have started to request free samples anytime I find them, these are most often in a Travel Size format - and once again, FREE.

All this results in a large plethora of travel sized items. :thumbsup2

The other day I finally went through my stash, organized and figured out what I wanted to bring and what I still needed to purchase.

Of course, after going through it all, I found a few stragglers in my bathroom drawers that aren't pictured...:rolleyes:

First up, my travel organizer that I heart very much. 2 giant pockets on the top and bottom, 2 smaller pockets in the middle. The entire back is one giant pocket for stuff (they suggest undergarments) - and there is a detachable makeup bag that is not pictured here. Plus a hook, so I can hang it on the curtain rod, or the towel bar, or wherever.
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4946-Small/731734994_7h9Ct-M.jpg

Medicines:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4944-Small/731734939_ZZ5HQ-M.jpg

Hair Products:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4945-Small/731734977_Nmqit-M.jpg
(the Tupperware container is hair gel)

Lotions and sunscreens (not all are pictured - I have another sunscreen and two more lotions):
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4947-Small/731735037_UgbKW-M.jpg

Germ away stuffs:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4948-Small/731735091_jXMQ7-M.jpg

Face wash stuff - I have 2 more of the Clean & Clear on the left too:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4949-Small/731735121_efkQD-M.jpg

Anyone need shampoo/conditioner or body wash?
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4950-Small/731735157_pw9yr-M.jpg

Hello, my pretty:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4952-Small/731735180_fYdhm-M.jpg

Detergent & Stain stick - the Purex is obviously not a sample, but they are coming with us:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4953-Small/731735184_6ofY8-M.jpg

Oral care - I just got more of the floss picks in the mail today too:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4954-Small/731735197_z55Uc-M.jpg

Eye care:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4955-Small/731735204_4ipuc-M.jpg

Baby butt care:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4956-Small/731735214_dNc9R-M.jpg

Smell good stuff/wrinkle releaser:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4957-Small/731735218_gGDGE-M.jpg

Just in case...;)
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4951-Small/731735173_Xwq7A-M.jpg

Not samples, but were part of what I went through...

glow sticks!
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4958-Small/731735228_MTtAF-M.jpg

Ponchos-still unused! We've never gotten rained on at Disney!
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4959-Small/731735256_DxaSo-M.jpg

Organizer filled with stuff for the trip:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4963-Small/731735286_HNqjn-M.jpg

All this, plus:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4962-Small/731735284_U9wCr-M.jpg

and

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4970-Small/731734878_pmo8H-M.jpg
Extra shopping tote, stroller cover, Mickey spinner and "kid leash"

Was placed in here for keeping until the suitcases come out:
http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG4968-Small/731735328_yk2xo-M.jpg

Complete with LGMH!

What I still need to buy and/or pack:

Full size hair spray. The travel sized one won't make it through 11 days for how much I use.
Full size tooth paste for Joe and I to both use.

Full size COFFEE.
Full size face wash.

(you still breathing Jordan? ;))

brookelizabeth

12-04-2009, 04:46 PM

:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:Close enough huh...

I'm like Pavlov's dog...I'm salivating...

:lmao:

Lovemy3babes

12-04-2009, 05:17 PM

I love travel stuff!!! You have a huge stash...nice Brook. I have one of those huge shopping totes too somewhere, thanks for the reminder! I'll pull it out tonight. :)

SoonerGirl

12-04-2009, 05:40 PM

I'm like Pavlov's dog...I'm salivating...

I can help with that one!

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o265/SoonerGirl69/Smilies/droolsmiley.gif

Not a dog - but definitely salivating!

wdwgirl03

12-04-2009, 06:01 PM

haha, I see some Disney shampoo in there! :rotfl: (I wonder how many bottles we have in our bathroom...)

mickeysmyboy

12-04-2009, 06:06 PM

I was in Target this morning and ventured into the travel size aisle! I thought of you!! :lmao:

We have an Owner's Locker now! I put a truck load of full sized items in there in Oct so I have no need for most of the travel sized things, besides lotions and things for my bag. It's very tempting in that aisle though!!!

Flossbolna

12-04-2009, 06:11 PM

Loved all those tiny bottles!! Does the tupperware container for the hair gel the volume printed on it somewhere? The rule seems to be that the container must state it's volume to fall under the 3-1-1 rule for hand luggage. Even if oyu can see that it is nowhere near 3 oz. I am just mentioning it, because I don't want your vacation to start with an unpleasant experience with extremely rule abiding TSA staff. :goodvibes

Charleston Princess

12-04-2009, 09:42 PM

Those are some mighty fine travel sizes you have there, Brook. :laughing:

Jordan must have passed out from sheer delight judging by the fact that he hasn't commented yet! :lmao:

princess&her4princes

12-04-2009, 09:48 PM

Gotta love the "little things" in life!!! :lovestrucYay for all the mini things ready to go for your trip!!!!!!:banana:

PopArtGal

12-05-2009, 09:31 AM

All the stuff looks great! :)

And to answer your question...nope. I can't escape anywhere anytime soon :(

tiggrbaby

12-05-2009, 05:08 PM

jordanyosh

12-05-2009, 05:16 PM

Must breath. Must breath.

Whenever someone posts a picture of their Travel Aisle booty, I feel I most respond with my reaction every time I pass the travel aisle at Target:

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc299/jordanyosh/summer2009062.jpg

Nuff said.

Brook:worship::worship::worship::worship:

jordanyosh

12-05-2009, 05:17 PM

I can help with that one!

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o265/SoonerGirl69/Smilies/droolsmiley.gif

Not a dog - but definitely salivating!
:rotfl2::rotfl2: That's pretty much me.

tiggrbaby

12-05-2009, 06:52 PM

A.Mickey

12-06-2009, 09:07 AM

Wow! That is ALOT of shampoo!! :rotfl2:

jenjolt

12-06-2009, 09:16 AM

WOW that's an amazing assortment of travel size toiletries. Once again I feel the need to head to Target to browse their aisles even if I don't need anything at this time LOL!!!! So I might do that tomorrow night LOL!!!!!

brookelizabeth

12-08-2009, 04:53 PM

A very quick post as Henry is starting to wake up from his nap...I will be back on tonight and do my replies to everyone...I just have to post an updated To Do list since I have gotten more done! :yay: :goodvibes

This week my focus will be my September Trip Report, Christmas Cards and setting aside the non-perishable items for the box to ship down.

Has anyone else ever shipped a box to Disney? Is it easy to ship BACK if you need to???

Life

Finish Christmas shopping - ALMOST DONE! :yay:

Wrap Christmas gifts - I got most of Henry's done, so progress here!

Write Christmas letter

Send Christmas cards
Clean house week before we leave
Stop mail
Finish September Trip Report!!!!

Disney

Pack (we can do this at anytime considering how cold MN is now!)
Buy a bunch of non-perishable items, send box to resort

Clean out stroller and car seat
Charge electronics
Make the inevitable 838 trips to Target for last minute things - I think I've made about 802 so far. ;)

Reserve parking spot at Park N Fly - Joe's to do list, I just have to make sure he does it!
Figure out how much and get cash for tips - DONE

Organize travel toiletries - DONE

Print basic trip plan for in-laws (written, but not printed, having printer issues!) and fill in Passporter - DONE

Get basic touring plan done for parks, "must do's" - DONE
Research scooters for Poppa - DONE
In-laws need to buy tickets - DONE

Plan in-room meals - DONE
Set up details of NYE meet with MeMom - DONE

But Passporter inserts - DONE
Make grocery list - DONE

Put in WeGoShop order - DONE
Get countdown calendar ready with stickers for Henry - DONE
Make budget so I have a clue what we can expect to spend while there - DONE

NOLA

Buy wedding present for the happy couple! - Not purchased, but I know what I'm getting, that is always the hard part! :goodvibes - HALF DONE :laughing:

Research cheap/free things to do

Go back to early pages of this PTR and re-read all NOLA advice given, take notes, commit to memory! ;)
Try to find a cheaper hotel - DONE :dance3:
Get a basic map of the area, walking map? - DONE

16 items to go, 18 days!!!!!!!!!

Ah, there is the little boy now..."Moooooooooooooommyyyyyyyyyyy!" :lovestruc

wdwgirl03

12-08-2009, 05:47 PM

18 days only! Not fair! :mad:

mickeysmyboy

12-08-2009, 05:54 PM

Great progress Brook!!

I UPSed a box down in Oct. I sent it about a week early and I know it arrived about 2 days before we did. I called Saratoga Springs to get their exact address. I had posted a thread on one of the other boards and someone had mentioned not to mail the box because all mail goes to central processing plant and the package maybe delayed by that. UPSing it to the exact address actually put it on a truck to the delievery area of the resort.

We shipped a box of a dirty clothes (yes, dirty clothes :lmao:) home in 06 for the concierges desk. It wasn't a problem at all. They gave me the yellow copy of the package info and the box arrived a few days after we got home! The biggest problem we had was getting a box from The Mechantile at WL to ship the stuff in! But we had purchased a lot of christmas gift and had no room in the suitcases!! I didn't want to buy a new bag!!

BrooklynnsMommy

12-08-2009, 06:00 PM

jenseib

12-08-2009, 06:54 PM

it's getting so close

jordanyosh

12-08-2009, 07:09 PM

making a list......;)

brookelizabeth

12-08-2009, 10:05 PM

I love travel stuff!!! You have a huge stash...nice Brook. I have one of those huge shopping totes too somewhere, thanks for the reminder! I'll pull it out tonight. :)

It's very handy to have that stash in case I run out of something here at home, I can just use one of them to tide me over until another sale/deal comes along. :thumbsup2 I love that shopping tote! We got it for $2 on clearance at the Disney Store at MCO b/c we had so much STUFF to carry back from a trip.

I can help with that one!

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o265/SoonerGirl69/Smilies/droolsmiley.gif

Not a dog - but definitely salivating!

:rotfl: Love it!

haha, I see some Disney shampoo in there! :rotfl: (I wonder how many bottles we have in our bathroom...)

And not pictured are a couple more of those, along with 4+ of the bar soaps....:rolleyes1

I was in Target this morning and ventured into the travel size aisle! I thought of you!! :lmao:

We have an Owner's Locker now! I put a truck load of full sized items in there in Oct so I have no need for most of the travel sized things, besides lotions and things for my bag. It's very tempting in that aisle though!!!

Don't you just love that travel aisle? So much fun to browse!

I was thinking about Owner's Locker, but I just can't justify the cost of it (yet)....it would be HANDY though!

Loved all those tiny bottles!! Does the tupperware container for the hair gel the volume printed on it somewhere? The rule seems to be that the container must state it's volume to fall under the 3-1-1 rule for hand luggage. Even if oyu can see that it is nowhere near 3 oz. I am just mentioning it, because I don't want your vacation to start with an unpleasant experience with extremely rule abiding TSA staff. :goodvibes

I don't think the Tupperware does have a printed volume on it now that you mention it...they let me through with it in September surprisingly! This time it will be in the checked luggage though...but VERY good to remember, I did have my facewash tossed on me back in September, not too convenient. :headache:

Those are some mighty fine travel sizes you have there, Brook. :laughing:

Jordan must have passed out from sheer delight judging by the fact that he hasn't commented yet! :lmao:

Thanks! It's fun to rummage through it all...I had no idea all what I had aside from a heaping bag of it all!

Gotta love the "little things" in life!!! :lovestrucYay for all the mini things ready to go for your trip!!!!!!:banana:

The "little things" :rotfl: good one!!

All the stuff looks great! :)

And to answer your question...nope. I can't escape anywhere anytime soon :(

Oh major bummer!!! :sad2: Thankfully there is the DIS, so living vicariously can be done. ;)

brookelizabeth

12-08-2009, 10:06 PM

Hey check this out! I just got these for my grand-niece and nephew. It's really soft and cuddly! You can save it for his BD next year to bring on the cruise!

http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=424598&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results

I saw these guys at Macy's just yesterday! Sooo cute! Henry spotted him in seconds flat of course. :laughing: That is a great idea for the cruise! :scratchin $14.95 is a nice price too.

Must breath. Must breath.

Whenever someone posts a picture of their Travel Aisle booty, I feel I most respond with my reaction every time I pass the travel aisle at Target:

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc299/jordanyosh/summer2009062.jpg

Nuff said.

Brook:worship::worship::worship::worship:

:lmao: Isn't it lovely?

Wow! That is ALOT of shampoo!! :rotfl2:

I know! Soooooooooooo much shampoo! It's handy though in case I run out here (which shouldn't happen anytime soon, but....)

WOW that's an amazing assortment of travel size toiletries. Once again I feel the need to head to Target to browse their aisles even if I don't need anything at this time LOL!!!! So I might do that tomorrow night LOL!!!!!

It's fun to browse! It's a "must check out" on just about every other trip for me. They always have something new too.

18 days only! Not fair! :mad:

Aw! :goodvibes But, I promise a nice TR with lots of pics. Does that help? :flower3:

Great progress Brook!!

I UPSed a box down in Oct. I sent it about a week early and I know it arrived about 2 days before we did. I called Saratoga Springs to get their exact address. I had posted a thread on one of the other boards and someone had mentioned not to mail the box because all mail goes to central processing plant and the package maybe delayed by that. UPSing it to the exact address actually put it on a truck to the delievery area of the resort.

We shipped a box of a dirty clothes (yes, dirty clothes :lmao:) home in 06 for the concierges desk. It wasn't a problem at all. They gave me the yellow copy of the package info and the box arrived a few days after we got home! The biggest problem we had was getting a box from The Mechantile at WL to ship the stuff in! But we had purchased a lot of christmas gift and had no room in the suitcases!! I didn't want to buy a new bag!!

Ah, great info! So, if I end up doing the regular mail route I'll be sure to mail it EARLY. Like, Monday of next week!

I like the idea of shipping the dirty clothes back! :thumbsup2

I have shipped a box down every time we have flown full of snacks, diapers, wipes, etc. I had no problem getting it and on one trip we did ship it back and that was no problem either. I had packed tape in the box on the way down so I just taped it up and took it to concierge. They figured out how much it would cost and printed the address labels for it. I mailed it the day before we left and it was to our house the day after we returned.

We are driving down this time so we are going to stop at a Walmart or Target in Orlando the night of the 27th to pick up any snacks, diapers, etc. If you think of anything you need just holler at us and we can grab it for you. No reason to use souvenir money on sunscreen and shampoo if you can get it at Walmart for half the price!

Great idea about the tape in the box! I would have never thought about that.

And THANK YOU for the offer!!! That is so, so nice!!! I will keep that in mind in case we forget anything.

it's getting so close

I know!! :yay::woohoo::dance3: Eeeeeeeeeeek!

making a list......;)

Checking it 984 times....!

A.Mickey

12-08-2009, 10:29 PM

Wow! You are tackling your list! :yay: You can do it!!

CJsMom

12-09-2009, 09:12 AM

Woo-hoo!! 18 days!! :banana:

PopArtGal

12-09-2009, 11:55 AM

Yep, the dis is saving my life. Especially with this flu that is not going away.

SoonerGirl

12-09-2009, 01:56 PM

Has anyone else ever shipped a box to Disney? Is it easy to ship BACK if you need to???

I'm curious about this too.

*Nevermind - thanks mickeysmyboy & brooklynsmommy for the info!!

I'm dropping my box of decorations off at the UPS store this afternoon - it's getting so close now!! :banana:

Good progress on the list! I've made a good dent in mine too, and I'm trying really hard not to get stressed out. :laughing: Trying to get all the Christmas stuff done, in addition to trip planning, sure adds to it!

SoonerGirl

12-09-2009, 02:04 PM

Ah, great info! So, if I end up doing the regular mail route I'll be sure to mail it EARLY. Like, Monday of next week!

Brook - everything that I have read says NOT to ship your box regular mail. You have to ship it UPS or FedEx, otherwise it will never get to your resort.

DWGal210

12-11-2009, 09:57 AM

I love your list of "to-do" items; sounds like someone else I know.... :rolleyes1I am the exact same way. My list is getting longer by the second. This weekend, I am going to do a double-check and make sure I have enough batteries, bandaids, tylenol, etc; the stuff that I just hate to buy for 10x the price as Wal-Mart or Target.

Getting closer!!!! :cool1:

brookelizabeth

12-12-2009, 02:26 AM

Wow! You are tackling your list! :yay: You can do it!!

I've gotten a couple more things done the past few days too. Whew! I still have the Christmas cards to do though...that's a biggee!

Woo-hoo!! 18 days!! :banana:

And now just TWO WEEKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :dance3:

Yep, the dis is saving my life. Especially with this flu that is not going away.

Oh, no!!! Stuck with the flu too?! I'm so sorry to hear that...I know it's extra brutal this year too. Blah!

I'm curious about this too.

*Nevermind - thanks mickeysmyboy & brooklynsmommy for the info!!

I'm dropping my box of decorations off at the UPS store this afternoon - it's getting so close now!! :banana:

Good progress on the list! I've made a good dent in mine too, and I'm trying really hard not to get stressed out. :laughing: Trying to get all the Christmas stuff done, in addition to trip planning, sure adds to it!

It really does! Christmas alone is a lot to do, then with the trip, it's nuts! But really fun at the same time. :goodvibes

You are planning on doing another TR, right?

Brook - everything that I have read says NOT to ship your box regular mail. You have to ship it UPS or FedEx, otherwise it will never get to your resort.

Oooh, so good to know! Thank you! Now, I just have to find a box! :laughing:

I love your list of "to-do" items; sounds like someone else I know.... :rolleyes1I am the exact same way. My list is getting longer by the second. This weekend, I am going to do a double-check and make sure I have enough batteries, bandaids, tylenol, etc; the stuff that I just hate to buy for 10x the price as Wal-Mart or Target.

Getting closer!!!! :cool1:

That is a good idea to do the double-check of it all....I haven't looked into my bandaid supply - I better do that just in case of blisters and other various owies 2 year old boys seem to attract. ;)

Can you believe our trips are so close?! I just read your reply to me on your PTR, I'm sorry if you have posted here or on my TR already and I just didn't recognize your screen name...I sometimes get people mixed up, or its just way too late to completely focus...like right now! :rotfl: Anyway, I will reply to your PM, I'd love to meet up!!! :banana: We are doing lots of hanging out at the resort during the afternoon/evening and pretty much just doing EMH hours. I'm really looking forward to AK at night. :goodvibes

Add another item to the To Do List...get the possible DIS meet info squared away! SoonerGirl, MeMom and crew, DWGal, and possibly wigdoutdismom if she is able to extend the trip. (did I miss anyone?) That is just awesome! I look forward to meeting all your DISers!

brookelizabeth

12-12-2009, 02:28 AM

I AM GOING TO DISNEY WORLD IN TWO WEEKS!!!!!!!

:dance3::yay::dance3::yay::dance3::yay:
:woohoo:

(and I have to admit, a bit of this is going on too: :scared1:)

Lady Lallie

12-12-2009, 08:48 AM

:banana::dance3::yay::woohoo:

PopArtGal

12-12-2009, 09:53 AM

YAY!! Let's do a dance... Well let's imagine I am doing a dance since I'm still lying in bed lol

DWGal210

12-12-2009, 12:12 PM

Woo Hoo for 2 weeks!!!! :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

Charleston Princess

12-12-2009, 01:22 PM

Hurray for two weeks!!! party: party:

mickeysmyboy

12-12-2009, 10:21 PM

:banana: Yippee for 2 weeks!!!! I can't dance right now, DH had me up until midnight last night because his computer wasn't working right. He got a new one a few weeks ago and windows 7 has been giving him problems! I'm babbling! But, I'm dancing in spirit!!!

CJsMom

12-12-2009, 11:08 PM

Woo-hoo for 2 weeks!!!!
:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

wdwgirl03

12-12-2009, 11:57 PM

Yay! TWO WEEKS!

IBelieveInTheMagic

12-13-2009, 10:35 AM

:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

Yeah for your 2 week mark!! It'll be here before you know it! :)

:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

Heather

SoonerGirl

12-13-2009, 09:16 PM

You are planning on doing another TR, right?

Yep - I was surprised at how much fun I had writing the last one!

Oooh, so good to know! Thank you! Now, I just have to find a box! :laughing:

I actually ended up not shipping our box! I got to UPS and it was going to be $35 to ship the stupid thing :scared1: I can check it with the airlines for cheaper than that! DH is going to check on his corporate rate with FedEx tomorrow, but if it's high too, we'll just check the box like a piece of luggage.

Oh my gosh!!! Do you see my ticker - less than 1 week to go!!!

brookelizabeth

12-15-2009, 08:36 AM

:banana::dance3::yay::woohoo:

Thanks for dancing with me!!!! :cheer2:

YAY!! Let's do a dance... Well let's imagine I am doing a dance since I'm still lying in bed lol

:lmao: Love it! I can imagine a bit of a leg kick/wiggle as a laying down dance...

Woo Hoo for 2 weeks!!!! :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

Can you believe it??!

Hurray for two weeks!!! party: party:

Party!!!

:banana: Yippee for 2 weeks!!!! I can't dance right now, DH had me up until midnight last night because his computer wasn't working right. He got a new one a few weeks ago and windows 7 has been giving him problems! I'm babbling! But, I'm dancing in spirit!!!

Oh man!!! That is awful. We haven't switched over to Windows 7 at home yet - Joe has for work, and his entire first day with it was configuring it to work right! :headache: I hope you were able to get it figured out!

Woo-hoo for 2 weeks!!!!
:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

I can't believe it's SO CLOSE. :eek: :dance3:

brookelizabeth

12-15-2009, 08:36 AM

Yay! TWO WEEKS!

:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

Yeah for your 2 week mark!! It'll be here before you know it! :)

:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

Heather

I know it! The days are FLYING!

Yep - I was surprised at how much fun I had writing the last one!

I actually ended up not shipping our box! I got to UPS and it was going to be $35 to ship the stupid thing :scared1: I can check it with the airlines for cheaper than that! DH is going to check on his corporate rate with FedEx tomorrow, but if it's high too, we'll just check the box like a piece of luggage.

Oh my gosh!!! Do you see my ticker - less than 1 week to go!!!

I LOVED your last TR - I still have it saved in my subscriptions for a re-read whenever we head out to CA....which will probably be years from now! :laughing:

$35!!!!!!!! :scared1::scared1: Ya, if ours is that expensive I'll just check it too!! I still haven't gotten the box from my MIL...and I have to still buy things to put in it.

4 days for you, 4 days!!! askdjf;lkajsdflkjasdd! YAY!

brookelizabeth

12-15-2009, 09:15 AM

Can you believe Christmas is just 10 days away? Where did December go?

We have our first Christmas party this coming Saturday at my Mother-in-Laws. There is sure to be plenty of Disney World talk being our entire traveling party will be there, and we are mere days away....!

Did I share with you all that this is my MIL and FIL's first time on a plane? Well, my MIL once rode a crop duster, but that is it! They have had lots of traveling/flight questions, but I think they are really excited about even that part of the trip. I'm going to try to remember to ask for them to get wings! :laughing: ;)

I know these don't make for exciting PTR updates, but they help me a lot! :laughing: 11 items left, 11 days to go...I added a new item, the days are catching up on me!

Today's goals are

to get at least some of the Christmas Cards mailed out,
update the TR, and,

get a few more of the items on the non-perishables/ship in a box list

Life

Return library books
Wrap Christmas gifts - just have to wrap the new items purchased yesterday

Send Christmas cards
Clean house week before we leave
Finish September Trip Report!!!!
Finish Christmas shopping - DONE! :yay::dance3::yay:
Write Christmas letter - DONE! WRITTEN, FOLDED, PRINTED!!
Stop mail - DONE!

Disney

Get DIS meet info organized and into PassPorter
Pack (we can do this at anytime considering how cold MN is now!)
Buy a bunch of non-perishable items, send box to resort

Clean out stroller and car seat
Charge electronics
Make the inevitable 838 trips to Target for last minute things - I think I've made about 830 so far. ;)

Reserve parking spot at Park N Fly - Joe's to do list, I just have to make sure he does it! - DONE

Figure out how much and get cash for tips - DONE

Organize travel toiletries - DONE

Print basic trip plan for in-laws (written, but not printed, having printer issues!) and fill in Passporter - DONE

Get basic touring plan done for parks, "must do's" - DONE
Research scooters for Poppa - DONE
In-laws need to buy tickets - DONE

Plan in-room meals - DONE
Set up details of NYE meet with MeMom - DONE

But Passporter inserts - DONE
Make grocery list - DONE

Put in WeGoShop order - DONE
Get countdown calendar ready with stickers for Henry - DONE
Make budget so I have a clue what we can expect to spend while there - DONE

NOLA

Go back to early pages of this PTR and re-read all NOLA advice given, take notes, commit to memory! ;)
Buy wedding present for the happy couple! - DONE

Research cheap/free things to do - DONE
Try to find a cheaper hotel - DONE :dance3:
Get a basic map of the area, walking map? - DONE

And a bit more exciting - here is what I have for our Touring Plans for the AM. Joe, KK and I will be going back to various parks in the evening for more the thrill rides, but I didn't devise any plans for those nights, we'll just roll with it. My MIL and FIL aren't big riders, the attractions/slow moving rides are appealing to them.

I'll post a full itinerary before we leave too!

Each park is a RD on an AM EMH. Joe is the FP runner, I will hang with the family to get my FIL a wheelchair each day (he has a bad back).

EPCOT

Joe to Test Track and Soarin' for FPs - half of us will get Soarin' FPs, the other half Test Track - the other half of the group will go in on the Baby Swap pass.

Family catch up with him and ride Livin' with the Land
Nemo/aquariums/Turtle Talk with Crush
SE
Club Cool - gotta get Beverly shots. :rolleyes1

World Showcase

DHS

Joe to TSM for FPs
GMR
Streets of America - gotta meet McQueen and Mater!
Backlot Tour
Muppets or Honey I Shrunk the Kids. Whichever is more appealing to the family.

HISTK Playground (in-laws may go do something else?)
Playhouse Disney
One Man's Dream. I think my MIL and FIL are going to really enjoy this since they remember the early days of Walt Disney.

Either IJ or LMA, I'll let the family choose
I really want to do the Animation Studio, so I might go off on my own for a while too

MK - um...everything? :rotfl:

Joe FP to Jungle Cruise
Teacups
Tomorrowland Cars
Riverboat - is this now only for Princess Tiana, or do they have the normal cruises too?

Hall of Presidents
Country Bear Jamboree

Jungle Cruise
Swiss Family Treehouse
Monsters Inc
Buzz
TTA
CoP
Toontown
"Mickey's Choo-Choo"

It's a Small World-if we have time
We also want to watch the parade at Noon and perhaps browse through the Exposition Hall since FIL is a photography buff.

AK

Joe FP to Safari
Oasis
Rafiki's Planet Watch
Some of the trails, whichever ones are least crowded. :laughing:

Boneyard / Dinoland
Either Nemo, Lion King, or Flights of Wonder. I'll let the family choose

I tried to keep it minimal.

I failed!

:laughing:

We'll see how much we get to...

Thoughts, opinions?

And I'll leave you with what my temperature widgit was telling me yesterday:

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/A72DegreeDifference/741180672_DQPSu-O.jpg

Lady Lallie

12-15-2009, 09:18 AM

DWGal210

12-15-2009, 09:39 AM

Your plans do look great!! I agree with you about the "taking it easy" part; we've done that they last few times and it makes a HUGE difference on everyone's nerves. Even just a break to go back to the hotel and swim makes a big difference in people "going the distance" for that day. :goodvibes

Can't wait to meet you! Perhaps one of the mornings or evenings, we can get together for a zebra dome and some coffee. :thumbsup2

Charleston Princess

12-15-2009, 09:43 AM

I think it will be absolutely adorable if you get your in-laws wings for their first flight! :goodvibes

I am amazed that there is a 72 degree difference between Florida and Minnesota! :eek:

IluvXU

12-15-2009, 09:53 AM

Getting so excited for you all! I can't wait to see what you think of your resort and everything. I bet Henry is into the holiday fun this year!

SoonerGirl

12-15-2009, 12:16 PM

Your plans look great and you've made GREAT progress on your list!!

On the Riverboat - I think I read that it is strickly for the Princess Tiana show right now. I remember being disappointed because we've never been on it and were going to try this trip - maybe another time!!

I was laughing about your remark on the Beverly shots - we've yet to go into Club Cool - maybe that's where we can meet, and we can trick our unsuspecting family members together! :lmao:

jenjolt

12-15-2009, 01:02 PM

Wow talk about climate shock LOL!! It's definitely warmer here in Florida!! LOL!!!

Love your lists!!! Can't wait to hear all about your trip!!!!! You are all going to have a great time LOL!!!

mickeysmyboy

12-15-2009, 01:05 PM

BrooklynnsMommy

12-15-2009, 05:19 PM

You are so super organized. Only a week and a half to go and I have done nothing. John still hasn't gotten the dog sitter lined up yet!!! The holiday is just sneaking up on me this year. The shopping has been done since before Thanksgiving, but that is the extent of it. I still have to wrap everything and this weekend we are headed to the in-laws. We'll leave Friday evening after Brooklynn's holiday program and won't get home until late Sunday night.

onelilspark

12-15-2009, 06:44 PM

Do me a favor and keep the weather in MN ok? It's 40 here right now and I'm liking it!!!

tiggrbaby

12-15-2009, 07:24 PM

What wonderful, organized plans!

TyRy

12-15-2009, 07:58 PM

Your plans look awesome and you are right on track with everything. Thanks for the tip about travel aisle...I never even thought about doing that!!

Also - I may have mentioned this about NOLA, but...everyone goes to Cafe DuMond for Beignets. It's a must with tourists. Soooo - go there once and then go to Cafe Beignet on Royal Street (I just googled it to make sure.) We were in there once a day for the Beignets and never looked back at DuMond again. It was just a couple blocks from the hotel. And they have coupons on their site too! ;)

wdwgirl03

12-16-2009, 08:07 AM

Your plans look great! I think the riverboat is just for the Princess Tiana show now. But I think that would be worth seeing. I wish they were going to keep it around longer. :guilty:

Love the weather thing. That's about what it was like last year when we came home from our trip. It was literally an 80-degree temperature change! :scared1:

brookelizabeth

12-16-2009, 03:46 PM

You are so organized. I feel like I need to make myself some to do lists as my trip gets closer.

Love your tempature widget. I need to get me one of those. :rotfl2:

All of your park plans look great. I think you have a good balance going.

I do feel like I have been more organized this trip than previous. I think it's because I stay at home and can take more time to focus on it during Henry's naps, AND, I just HAVE to be for this trip. So much going on at one time-and I want to be sure the in-laws have a great time! :goodvibes

The temperature widget makes me happy sometimes, like now, seeing that FL is in the 70s and knowing we will be there soon. But come March, I'll hate it! :rotfl: We'll still be in the low temps while the rest of the nation is defrosted! It is a whopping 10 degress here today though...:rolleyes:

Your plans do look great!! I agree with you about the "taking it easy" part; we've done that they last few times and it makes a HUGE difference on everyone's nerves. Even just a break to go back to the hotel and swim makes a big difference in people "going the distance" for that day. :goodvibes

Can't wait to meet you! Perhaps one of the mornings or evenings, we can get together for a zebra dome and some coffee. :thumbsup2

It really does make a difference to just take it easy and roll with it. We have done that now the past 2 trips, scheduling some things and having an idea of what to do, but just taking it as it comes and not worrying about what we missed, etc. It's GREAT. Very, very enjoyable! It helps to know we will be back again though!

The Zebra Dome and coffee sounds DIVINE. :cloud9: I still have to check my PMs and organize all that info...I will get back to you!

I think it will be absolutely adorable if you get your in-laws wings for their first flight! :goodvibes

I am amazed that there is a 72 degree difference between Florida and Minnesota! :eek:

I can totally see my FIL wearing them. He's so goofy and fun!!

I bet the temperature difference will increase as the winter goes on too...we haven't really hit the big negatives yet...-10 is NOT unrealistic around here! :sad2:

We truly treasure our winter getaways....:laughing:

Getting so excited for you all! I can't wait to see what you think of your resort and everything. I bet Henry is into the holiday fun this year!

I'm SO excited to stay at the resort in one of those villas with the TUB. And that shower!!!! dfjal;skdjf;lkasjdf makes me so excited!

Henry is getting more into all the fun with Christmas! He likes looking at the lights, and is very anxious to open presents...:rolleyes:

Your plans look great and you've made GREAT progress on your list!!

On the Riverboat - I think I read that it is strickly for the Princess Tiana show right now. I remember being disappointed because we've never been on it and were going to try this trip - maybe another time!!

I was laughing about your remark on the Beverly shots - we've yet to go into Club Cool - maybe that's where we can meet, and we can trick our unsuspecting family members together! :lmao:

Every time I look at my list it makes me feel better, because I am actually getting things DONE. :thumbsup2 Not everything will be last minute this trip! Miracles DO happen! :rotfl:

That is a bummer about the Riverboat...but I understand too. The Princess Tiana show does look like fun, but I don't think we'll make it a "must see" - if we run into it, so be it, otherwise, no loss.

Oh, that would be funny about the Beverly meet! I like it!!! I'll be checking my PMs and getting the DIS meet info organized soon - today/tomorrow for sure! I'll PM you or text ya and we can figure it all out! So far I have been able to trick Joe twice with it too because he forgets which one is nasty...and I don't tell of course! ;)

Wow talk about climate shock LOL!! It's definitely warmer here in Florida!! LOL!!!

Love your lists!!! Can't wait to hear all about your trip!!!!! You are all going to have a great time LOL!!!

Even if it's in the 60s while we are there, it will feel like a heat wave! I am hoping for 70s though.... Wait a sec, we are at 10 DAYS I can start checking the forecast! Woot!

I hope it is a good time, I can't imagine it not being. I have no idea if the family will like Disney World, and if they don't, I just have to not let that bother me. I can't imagine not liking it though...:rotfl:

brookelizabeth

12-16-2009, 03:54 PM

Oh, goodness....I had replied to everyone, but had to cut/paste into a few posts due to the number of smilies (:rotfl:) and was doing 2 things at once, not thinking...and LOST all the rest of the replies. Sigh.

I will come back and reply, I just gotta get my update posted and finish washing the dishes before Henry wakes up! :goodvibes

brookelizabeth

12-16-2009, 04:09 PM

Not a whole lot to report today, but I have to shout it...we are at 10 DAYS!!!! Tomorrow we will be single digit dancing! :banana:

A couple small changes to the Park Touring schedule:

I forgot to put Cinderella's Carousel on the list. Henry likes it, I like it, and it holds a lot of people, meaning quick line. :thumbsup2
As SoonerGirl and wdwgirl03 mentioned, the Riverboat is now just for the Princess Tiana show. While I think the show looks great, I know Joe won't care for it, and my FIL probably won't either. My MIL and KK are more neutral. So....if we run into it, we most likely will stop and watch, but we aren't going to make it a "must do". So scratch that one from the list.

Heading over to weather.com I tried to get the 10 day forecast for Lake Buena Vista, FL; however, their 10 day forecast includes today, so my plans were foiled. (I just had to use that word!) Between today and the 25th, it seems to be in the 60s, but warming up to the 70s on the 25th. Hopefully THAT is the start of a heat wave! ::yes::

And a new Mickey.

We were Christmas shopping on Monday, we stopped at Macy's to get a gift card for DJ and B, and what do they have next to the cashier?

Yep. That new sailor Mickey in celebration of the new cruise ships. I had seen him already at Macy's and here on the DIS (did someone here send me a link? Or was that on another TR?), but I had resisted. But this time...Henry had been in his stroller all day, had been SUCH a good boy...ya...

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG5299-Small/742679936_ceWBz-M.jpg
From this morning...

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG5292-Small/742679929_32LRX-M.jpg

Isn't he cute? And he talks, which just thrills Henry! This morning he wanted both his "big Mickey" and his "baby Mickey" (one we got him in November 2008 from WDW). He thinks the little Mickey should talk too, when I told him it didn't, he said "No Baby Mickey" and threw him back in the crib. :rotfl: Sorry Little Mickey, a new guy has come to town!!

He was only $15, and came with a little clock. Pretty good deal I thought!

Until I walked into the Disney Store, which is right next to Macy's at the Mall of America...I was greeted warmly and told their plushes and pajamas were BOGO. And you could combine them.

Being me, I had to find a similar size Mickey and check out the price tag. $16.50. For $1.50 more I could have had a pair of pajamas too! :headache:

I justified it with, this Mickey is limited edition, a tad bigger AND he talks! :laughing:

Henry got a new suitcase for his birthday this past September. I am thinking it will be filled with stuffed animals and blankets! :rotfl:

BrooklynnsMommy

12-16-2009, 05:16 PM

Brooklynn took our Sailor Mickey to school today for show and tell!

Lady Lallie

12-16-2009, 06:03 PM

Oh, Sailor Mickey is super cute! Henry is too funny throwing baby mickey back in the crib. :laughing:

wdwgirl03

12-16-2009, 06:12 PM

Aww, cute Mickey! As soon as I saw your updated title I immediately thought of Macy's and that sailor Mickey. haha!

gellybean

12-16-2009, 06:13 PM

You may already know this but accuweather .com has a 15 day forecast!! Don't know how ..... ACCUrate it may or may not be! :lmao: But it's worth a looksy!

That sailor Mickey is too cute!! All this new cruise ship buzz on the Disboards is making me wanna check out a cruise for next year!! :rolleyes1 MUST resist!!! DH is wanting to go to Vegas next year, now that Jack-Jack is old enough to stay with my mom for a few nights!! I'm not thinking I'm gonna be able to convince him that a Disney cruise is just as good as Vegas. :rotfl: (Better, imho but convincing him is the hard part!)

PopArtGal

12-16-2009, 07:56 PM

I so want that Mickey!

But we don't have Macy's here hehe

Henry's the cutest for not wanting baby mick since he doesn't talk.

tiggrbaby

12-16-2009, 09:10 PM

I so want that Mickey!

But we don't have Macy's here hehe

Henry's the cutest for not wanting baby mick since he doesn't talk.

You can get the Mickey at Macy's dot com. I got them for my grandniece and grandnephew (and one for me!)

Charleston Princess

12-17-2009, 08:06 AM

You are single digit dancing this morning!!! :banana:

Sailor Mickey is adorable!!! Henry looks like he is completely in love with him! :lovestruc

mickeysmyboy

12-17-2009, 08:29 AM

jenjolt

12-17-2009, 10:54 AM

Love Sailor Mickey!! How cute is the outfit he is wearing!!! Glad Henry has found a new pal...YAY today we get to single digit dance WOOT!

jenjolt

12-17-2009, 10:55 AM

:cool1::banana: Forgot to dance above LOL!!!! :cool1::banana:

DWGal210

12-17-2009, 11:57 AM

I love that Sailor Mickey - he is just precious!!!

And get on your dancing shoes, sister....time for some single-digit dancing!! :cool1: :banana: :woohoo: :cool1: :banana: :woohoo:

brookelizabeth

12-17-2009, 04:05 PM

Brook, everything looks fabulous! I think you have everything under control!!!

You have to meet McQueen and Mater! Ryan was sooo excited to meet them in Oct!! I haven't gotten that far in my TR yet, maybe by the end of the week!

I'm beginning to think I have things under control as well...which is dangerous, makes me relax! :rotfl:

We were able to meet McQueen & Mater in September...coming up to that in my TR. It was SO FUN - gotta do it again!!! I'm looking forward to your encounter with them too! :goodvibes

You are so super organized. Only a week and a half to go and I have done nothing. John still hasn't gotten the dog sitter lined up yet!!! The holiday is just sneaking up on me this year. The shopping has been done since before Thanksgiving, but that is the extent of it. I still have to wrap everything and this weekend we are headed to the in-laws. We'll leave Friday evening after Brooklynn's holiday program and won't get home until late Sunday night.

Oh Jill! I'm sorry to hear about all that going on...but you have two very good excuses - PLUS you work full time. I have no idea how you keep going, I would collapse into a ball of tears!

I hope everything with the in-laws is enjoyable, if I recall correctly, you don't exactly have "fun" at their home. :hug:

Do me a favor and keep the weather in MN ok? It's 40 here right now and I'm liking it!!!

:lmao: I have NYC on my weather widget as well, it's 31 there today! So nice. It is 19 here though, feels like a heat wave out there!

What wonderful, organized plans!

I'm trying to be. :rotfl: I think it has helped that I have time during the day while Henry is napping to tick things off the To Do list. Hopefully I can avoid the last minute scramble!

Your plans look awesome and you are right on track with everything. Thanks for the tip about travel aisle...I never even thought about doing that!!

Also - I may have mentioned this about NOLA, but...everyone goes to Cafe DuMond for Beignets. It's a must with tourists. Soooo - go there once and then go to Cafe Beignet on Royal Street (I just googled it to make sure.) We were in there once a day for the Beignets and never looked back at DuMond again. It was just a couple blocks from the hotel. And they have coupons on their site too! ;)

Excellent advice! Love it! I have copied it down and it will be going into the Passporter! I likee that they have coupons....! :thumbsup2

I should send you a commission check for the money you are saving us. :laughing: I will be in Chicago this coming summer, perhaps we can meet up and I'll buy you dinner!

Your plans look great! I think the riverboat is just for the Princess Tiana show now. But I think that would be worth seeing. I wish they were going to keep it around longer. :guilty:

Love the weather thing. That's about what it was like last year when we came home from our trip. It was literally an 80-degree temperature change! :scared1:

How long are they doing the Princess Tiana show? I kinda hope to run into it, but even when I mentioned it to Joe last night he looked at me funny, "Ah, no...." :rotfl:

They do have a big exhibit for the movie in NOLA right now, it would be awesome to see it! I'm not sure of our exact plans - so we'll see....

I am so hoping for an 80 degree temperature difference. :laughing: It can be 80 there and 0 here. ::yes::

Brooklynn took our Sailor Mickey to school today for show and tell!

Aw! I'm sure all the kids will love his sayings!

Oh, Sailor Mickey is super cute! Henry is too funny throwing baby mickey back in the crib. :laughing:

Isn't he adorable? I figured if they sold that in the parks it would cost double what Macy's is charging too!

Starting yesterday evening, Henry requests that I talk for Baby Mickey when he squeezes his hand. :goodvibes

Aww, cute Mickey! As soon as I saw your updated title I immediately thought of Macy's and that sailor Mickey. haha!

You are good!!! He was just too cute to resist!

You may already know this but accuweather .com has a 15 day forecast!! Don't know how ..... ACCUrate it may or may not be! :lmao: But it's worth a looksy!

That sailor Mickey is too cute!! All this new cruise ship buzz on the Disboards is making me wanna check out a cruise for next year!! :rolleyes1 MUST resist!!! DH is wanting to go to Vegas next year, now that Jack-Jack is old enough to stay with my mom for a few nights!! I'm not thinking I'm gonna be able to convince him that a Disney cruise is just as good as Vegas. :rotfl: (Better, imho but convincing him is the hard part!)

A 15 day!!!!!!!!!!

:surfweb:

Well, that has us all in the low 60's and so far on weather.com they have us in the mid-70s for December 26. I'm hoping accuweather is wrong. :rotfl: (but despite me hoping that, I'll be checking daily...:rolleyes1)

Vegas Schmagas! Disney Cruise, Disney Cruise!!!

I so want that Mickey!

But we don't have Macy's here hehe

Henry's the cutest for not wanting baby mick since he doesn't talk.

Oh that stinks! No Macy's!! Could you try to order online?

You can get the Mickey at Macy's dot com. I got them for my grandniece and grandnephew (and one for me!)

Well there we go! :laughing: You can order online!! :thumbsup2

You are single digit dancing this morning!!! :banana:

Sailor Mickey is adorable!!! Henry looks like he is completely in love with him! :lovestruc

Yes, yes I am!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Henry and I did a jig this morning!

Henry is lovin' that Mickey! It's very sweet.

brookelizabeth

12-17-2009, 04:06 PM

Sailor Mickey is sooo cute!!!! Did you have to buy sometihng else to get him?! You know, one of those spend $50 and get Sailor Mickey for $15 kinda deals.

I'd love to get him for Ryan as a christmas gift but I don't need anything else at Macy's so if I have to buy something else he's a no go!

I love the buy one get one offer at the Disney Store! I wonder if they have it at the Disney Outlet too! My kiddos could always use one more pair of jammies!!

:cool1::banana::dance3::yay::woohoo: Happy single digit dancing!!! How excited are you?!

I keep thinking that the day after christmas is our 2 week mark! :lmao: I know, I'm warped! All the things I could be thinking about the holidays and that's what I come up with!

Nope! You didn't have to buy anything to get it for $15 - that is the normal price! Quite a good deal I think.

I am VERY VERY excited about Single Digit Dancing! My FIL came over for lunch because he was in town, and I couldn't stop talking about it. :rotfl: I was also able to get some stuff done while he played with Henry. :thumbsup2

That is hilarious about thinking about your 2 week mark! I would be the same....!

Love Sailor Mickey!! How cute is the outfit he is wearing!!! Glad Henry has found a new pal...YAY today we get to single digit dance WOOT!

I know it, I love his little shirt and hat!! It's so cute!

:cool1::banana: Forgot to dance above LOL!!!! :cool1::banana:

LOL :yay::yay:

I love that Sailor Mickey - he is just precious!!!

And get on your dancing shoes, sister....time for some single-digit dancing!! :cool1: :banana: :woohoo: :cool1: :banana: :woohoo:

They are ON and I've been jigging through the house all day! I'm so excited and can't believe it!!!

brookelizabeth

12-17-2009, 04:18 PM

As several of you have already noted, we are SINGLE DIGIT DANCING today! I can't hardly believe how time has flown...but I did expect that with the holidays and all.

And because today marks 9 DAYS, I was finally able to see our first day on weather.com - and it has us at 75 degrees. LOVE IT. :yay:

gellybean noted that accuweather.com has a 15 day forecast, so I had to check that one out too...it has us at 61 degrees on the 26th. :sad2: So, I'm hoping weather.com is more accurate. ;)

I am so excited about the WDW portion of our trip I failed to even think about checking New Orlean's weather. I just kinda expected it to be similar....

Boy was I wrong!

December 26 is logged at 55 degrees. :eek: Brrrr! Definitely bringing the winter jackets.

And an update on the To Do list that I have to post to keep my sanity.

Life

Wrap Christmas gifts

Clean house week before we leave
Finish September Trip Report!!!!
Return library books - DONE
Send Christmas cards - DONE

Finish Christmas shopping - DONE! :yay::dance3::yay:
Write Christmas letter - DONE! WRITTEN, FOLDED, PRINTED!!
Stop mail - DONE!

Disney

Get DIS meet info organized and into PassPorter
Pack - I've pulled a bunch of shirts for Henry and have an idea of what I'm bringing...

Buy a bunch of non-perishable items, send box to resort

Clean out stroller and car seat
Charge electronics
Make the inevitable 838 trips to Target for last minute things - I think I've made about 831 so far. ;)

Reserve parking spot at Park N Fly - Joe's to do list, I just have to make sure he does it! - DONE

Figure out how much and get cash for tips - DONE

Organize travel toiletries - DONE

Print basic trip plan for in-laws (written, but not printed, having printer issues!) and fill in Passporter - DONE

Get basic touring plan done for parks, "must do's" - DONE
Research scooters for Poppa - DONE
In-laws need to buy tickets - DONE

Plan in-room meals - DONE
Set up details of NYE meet with MeMom - DONE

But Passporter inserts - DONE
Make grocery list - DONE

Put in WeGoShop order - DONE
Get countdown calendar ready with stickers for Henry - DONE
Make budget so I have a clue what we can expect to spend while there - DONE

NOLA

Go back to early pages of this PTR and re-read all NOLA advice given, take notes, commit to memory! ;)
Buy wedding present for the happy couple! - DONE

Research cheap/free things to do - DONE
Try to find a cheaper hotel - DONE :dance3:
Get a basic map of the area, walking map? - DONE

Okay, so not a lot got done the past two days, but one of them was the Christmas Cards, and that is a project! I'm so relieved to have that done.

Today's goals are:

get the DIS Meet info organized and into the PassPorter
put together shipping box and load with what I have on hand
finish wrapping presents

And, not trip related, but such a good deal, I'm going to tell you about it...:rotfl: If you click HERE (http://www.hallmark.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/article%7C10001%7C10051%7C/HallmarkSite/GoldCrownStores/GCS_HOLIDAY_COUPON) you can print off a coupon for $5.00 off a $5.00 purchase (or more) at any Hallmark Gold Crown store. I was able to pick up three cards and a holiday gift bag (it was on sale) for a whopping 84 cents. :thumbsup2 The coupon expires 12/24.

tiggrbaby

12-17-2009, 07:27 PM

What a great coupon! Thanks for sharing!

jordanyosh

12-17-2009, 07:35 PM

:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

:dance3::dance3::dance3:

I find weather.com to be more accurate than accuweather.com

GreatBiscuit

12-17-2009, 07:40 PM

:cool1: Congrats on the singles! ! ! ! ! :cool1:

A.Mickey

12-17-2009, 08:28 PM

Wow! It is coming fast! :yay::yay::yay:

Spoogle

12-17-2009, 09:03 PM

Hi!

I've been lurking for a while, but I had to post about the New Orleans weather! Don't feel too down about the projected forecast because that WILL change! Make sure you bring your winter coat, shorts, swim suit and umbrella because you will experience every season in a 24 hour period in South Louisiana! You'll love it! :lmao:

wigdoutdismom

12-17-2009, 09:24 PM

Single digit dancing with you!:dance3::dance3::dance3:

rustysfr56

12-18-2009, 02:16 AM

Thanks for the coupon Brook! I love those Willow Tree figures they sell there and am getting one for my mom as a gift...it will come in handy!:thumbsup2

P.s- congrats on the singles!!!!:banana:

mickeysmyboy

12-18-2009, 05:34 AM

:cool1::dance3::cheer2: Wooo hoo again!!!

Great coupon!!! Thanks for sharing!

wdwgirl03

12-18-2009, 07:49 AM

Ahhhh you are soooo close now!

As for the Princess Tiana show I think I read in my dad's AP newsletter it ends at the beginning of January. :confused3 I don't understand why they'd only have it for a month!

princess&her4princes

12-18-2009, 09:45 PM

SINGLE Digits already?!! WOOHOO!!!:dance3: SO excited for you Brook! It's going to FLY by now with the holidays and all! You've got a great list going and seems your checking it twice!!;) Good job!!

brookelizabeth

12-18-2009, 10:59 PM

What a great coupon! Thanks for sharing!

Your welcome!! :thumbsup2

:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

:dance3::dance3::dance3:

I find weather.com to be more accurate than accuweather.com

I love to hear that! We are now at 70 degrees for the 26th and 71 for the 27th.

:cool1: Congrats on the singles! ! ! ! ! :cool1:

Thank you!! I can't hardly believe it.

Wow! It is coming fast! :yay::yay::yay:

Veryyyyyy fast!!!!

Hi!

I've been lurking for a while, but I had to post about the New Orleans weather! Don't feel too down about the projected forecast because that WILL change! Make sure you bring your winter coat, shorts, swim suit and umbrella because you will experience every season in a 24 hour period in South Louisiana! You'll love it! :lmao:

:rotfl: I love to hear that! Really very good to know, thank you for posting! :goodvibes And thank you for reading along too! (any further advice about New Orleans is very welcome too!)

Single digit dancing with you!:dance3::dance3::dance3:

Thanks Anita! :banana:

Thanks for the coupon Brook! I love those Willow Tree figures they sell there and am getting one for my mom as a gift...it will come in handy!:thumbsup2

P.s- congrats on the singles!!!!:banana:

Perfect!!! I'm very glad to help with the coupon!

And thank you! :woohoo:

brookelizabeth

12-18-2009, 11:00 PM

:cool1::dance3::cheer2: Wooo hoo again!!!

Great coupon!!! Thanks for sharing!

Your welcome! :goodvibes

Ahhhh you are soooo close now!

As for the Princess Tiana show I think I read in my dad's AP newsletter it ends at the beginning of January. :confused3 I don't understand why they'd only have it for a month!

I never get those AP newsletters. :sad2: And we won't have APs after January 20. Big bummer.

Anyway, that is strange to go to all that effort and expense just for a month! :confused: Will Princess Tiana be anywhere else I wonder? Perhaps at a dinner or something?

SINGLE Digits already?!! WOOHOO!!!:dance3: SO excited for you Brook! It's going to FLY by now with the holidays and all! You've got a great list going and seems your checking it twice!!;) Good job!!

I know! And just tonight when Henry put another sticker on the countdown I realized tomorrow is a WEEK. Why does 9 days, or even 8, sound so much longer than a week? :laughing: It excites me and scares me all in one!

:rotfl: That is very true about the list...except I think I'm checking it closer to 3 trillion times! ;)

brookelizabeth

12-18-2009, 11:31 PM

I should really should have known better than to write in my PassPorter in PEN. :headache:

Here's the scoop...

Last night I was checking PMs (finally) to arrange/figure out DIS Meet info, when I read one from Flossbolna from about 400 years ago (okay, it was December 7th) that Disney had extended the park hours during NYE week. Thinking there couldn't be that much changed, I brought up the park hours to find all of our AM EMH RDs were now at 7:00 am versus the 8:00 am it was originally. :eek:

If you read my TRs you know we are not morning/RD people. We struggle with 9:00 am because we enjoy our slow mornings...we were pushing it with the 8:00 am, but 7:00 am would be near impossible for this clan...except my MIL who is an early bird.

What to do, what to do. I spoke to Joe. He was very bummed - he doesn't like to feel rushed during vacation, and making a 7:00 am would require rushing in the morning for us.

After much thought, and some good discussion with Joe we have devised a brand new plan based off of TouringPlans.com's crowd calendar. Every park day has been changed. Every-single-one! :rotfl:

The Plan 2.0
Sunday, December 27
WAS: Epcot
NOW:

DHS 9:00 am RD :thumbsup2
6:00 pm Osborne lights
7:25 pm ADR for Joe & I at California Grill, watch Wishes from the balcony :lovestruc
After, MK - Must ride Space Mountain! :yay:

Monday, December 28
WAS: DHS
NOW:

MK 7:00 am RD (it's 7:00 am every day :laughing:)
12:00 pm ADR at 50's Prime Time - this is the only meh part, our MK day will be cut short with this long transfer; however, we do have more MK time scheduled in below.
AK PM EMH

Tuesday, December 29
WAS: MK
NOW:

AK 8:00 am RD
MK in the PM

Wednesday, December 30
WAS: AK
NOW:

EPCOT 9:00 am RD
4:15 pm Candlelight Processional Package ADR at Biergarten
6:45 pm Candlelight Processional
9:30 pm Illuminations (does anyone know where the CP seating is for Illuminations? Just curious...)

Thursday, December 31
Plans stay the same, no parks

9:45 am Boma breakfast (woot!)
8:00 pm Meet MeMom, Jill and crew at Kona Cafe to stake out NYE DIS Meet Fireworks Spectacular! spot
(perhaps purchase a Dole Whip on the way to the beach...:rolleyes1)

We are much more comfortable with this touring schedule. We have one early morning, one 8:00-er and two 9:00-ers.

That also means I need to re-PM a couple DISers and configure new plans. :rolleyes:

As I mentioned in a reply, tonight Henry put a sticker on the count down and I realized tomorrow marks ONE WEEK until we leave! :yay:

Tomorrow we have Christmas with Joe's immediate family. We will be gone all day.

The 23rd we will celebrate Christmas here-just us three! We keep it very low-key, so I'm sure I'll be busy as a bee this day packing, etc.

The 24th we have half a day to pack/finish up things, we will load the car up because that evening we have Christmas with Joe's whole family, and that night we drive to my Aunt & Uncle's house.

The 25th we have Christmas all day with my whole family, we will sleep at their house and leave early on the 26th for the airport!

So that means technically I have about 4.5 days to finish this:

Life

Clean house week before we leave
Finish September Trip Report!!!!
Wrap Christmas gifts - DONE
Return library books - DONE
Send Christmas cards - DONE

Finish Christmas shopping - DONE!
Write Christmas letter - DONE! WRITTEN, FOLDED, PRINTED!!
Stop mail - DONE!

Disney

Pack - I've pulled a bunch of shirts for Henry and have an idea of what I'm bringing...

Buy a bunch of non-perishable items, send box to resort - stuff is starting to accumulate on our kitchen table. I MUST mail the box MONDAY.

Clean out stroller and car seat
Charge electronics - I will assign this to Joe.

Make the inevitable 838 trips to Target for last minute things - I think I've made about 833 so far. ;)
Get DIS meet info organized and into PassPorter - DONE
Reserve parking spot at Park N Fly - Joe's to do list, I just have to make sure he does it! - DONE

Figure out how much and get cash for tips - DONE

Organize travel toiletries - DONE

Print basic trip plan for in-laws (written, but not printed, having printer issues!) and fill in Passporter - DONE

Get basic touring plan done for parks, "must do's" - DONE
Research scooters for Poppa - DONE
In-laws need to buy tickets - DONE

Plan in-room meals - DONE
Set up details of NYE meet with MeMom - DONE

But Passporter inserts - DONE
Make grocery list - DONE

Put in WeGoShop order - DONE
Get countdown calendar ready with stickers for Henry - DONE
Make budget so I have a clue what we can expect to spend while there - DONE

NOLA

Go back to early pages of this PTR and re-read all NOLA advice given, take notes, commit to memory! ;)
Buy wedding present for the happy couple! - DONE

Research cheap/free things to do - DONE
Try to find a cheaper hotel - DONE
Get a basic map of the area, walking map? - DONE

:woohoo:

jordanyosh

12-19-2009, 02:28 AM

EVERY PARK???????

WOW!

At least you have a plan that works for you and is realistic for your family.

I will be very interested to see how the crowd levels are.

Flossbolna

12-19-2009, 02:58 AM

Wow, what a lot of change, but it sounds good to me! I am glad that you could find a way to work around the new opening times. :goodvibes Have you tried to change the Prime Time ADR? You never know wether you might not get lucky!

Charleston Princess

12-19-2009, 04:56 AM

I can't believe you changed your entire touring plans at the 11th hour, so to speak. I am glad you are all much happier with it, though.

Looks like a busy time of it between Christmas and getting ready to leave! Good luck with everything! You will probably let out a huge sigh of relief when you get on the plane on the 26th.

MeMom

12-19-2009, 05:16 AM

Single digit dancing with you!:dance3::dance3::dance3:

You don't have time for dancing. You are supposed to be busy packing!!!

Yes, Brook, be sure to meet us at Kona before we eat. They might not appreciate me coming to the table with a blanket. :laughing:

Sorry you can't make it to the very famous Wigd Out Christmas Tree Meet on Sunday! You will stop and think of us in the midst of your romantic meal, right?

princess&her4princes

12-19-2009, 08:05 AM

WOW....I'm SO impressed that you could change your plans so close to the trip, I think that would stress me out! But good for you and they look great!!!:thumbsup2 Sounds like you've got control over thing...and you are at just a week now!! WOOHOO!!!!!!!!!:banana:

Lady Lallie

12-19-2009, 08:14 AM

Your new plans look great. I love it when you come up with a park plan and it just feels right. :thumbsup2

kschafer

12-19-2009, 08:21 AM

WOW! I am a fan of rope drop and I am looking forward to trying the AM EMH in May (we didn't have park hoppers last year so we avoided them) but I'm not sure I would ever drag myself to the parks for a 7 AM opening!! (I'm sure I wouldn't do it more than once at least) I think your strategy is a great one!

MEK

12-19-2009, 11:40 AM

WOWSA! You are one super organized person!!!!! With less than a week to go you have almost everything crossed off your To-Do list. I am quite impressed!

I hope you guys have a great Christmas and an awesome trip!

tiggrbaby

12-19-2009, 12:34 PM

7AM?!? That would take a lot of dedication! New plan looks super!

MRYPPNS

12-19-2009, 04:32 PM

May I suggest (if you haven't already planned it this way) taking a taxi to your ADR with Joe at the Cali Grill. I'm assuming that you would be coming from DHS and that 20 bucks might be the best $20 that you spend all vacation.

Plans look good! Don't forget that there is nothing wrong with sitting by the resort pool all day too!

Happy Holidays

wigdoutdismom

12-19-2009, 04:45 PM

Hey Brook! Your plans look great....
Flexibility and Disney go hand in hand!:goodvibes
I hope we get to say hi over at the MK after your romantic dinner!:goodvibes

brookelizabeth

12-20-2009, 03:54 PM

EVERY PARK???????

WOW!

At least you have a plan that works for you and is realistic for your family.

I will be very interested to see how the crowd levels are.

I know! I think we are nuts! :rotfl: But, I really do feel better about this plan. It's still late enough that we aren't all dragging, and early enough for my AM-lovin' MIL.

Wow, what a lot of change, but it sounds good to me! I am glad that you could find a way to work around the new opening times. :goodvibes Have you tried to change the Prime Time ADR? You never know wether you might not get lucky!

I haven't tried...but you are right - people cancel stuff at the last minute all the time...it's worth a shot!

And it worked!!! :eek: :woohoo::rotfl:

I just went online and booked us at Sci-Fi for 11:05 on our December 27! Not the perfect lunch time, but it's just fine, we'll take it!!! :yay:

Yahoo! Thanks for encouraging me to do that, I really truly would never have bothered...

That was also my first time trying the online ADR system. Slick. :thumbsup2

I can't believe you changed your entire touring plans at the 11th hour, so to speak. I am glad you are all much happier with it, though.

Looks like a busy time of it between Christmas and getting ready to leave! Good luck with everything! You will probably let out a huge sigh of relief when you get on the plane on the 26th.

I know, we are crazy. :lmao: But, we are all much more comfortable with it. When I told Joe's sister (KK), about the 7 ams, she just did this: :eek: :laughing:

I will let out a sigh of relief on the plane! It's been a busy time these past few weeks, but a lot of fun too!

You don't have time for dancing. You are supposed to be busy packing!!!

Yes, Brook, be sure to meet us at Kona before we eat. They might not appreciate me coming to the table with a blanket. :laughing:

Sorry you can't make it to the very famous Wigd Out Christmas Tree Meet on Sunday! You will stop and think of us in the midst of your romantic meal, right?

:rotfl: Can I dance while I pack?

Can you imagine the looks you would get at Kona with a blanket? :laughing:

I am bummed about not making it to the Wigd Out Christmas Tree Meet (love the name!), but, am very much looking forward to the meal with Joe! We will most likely not only think of you guys, but wonder out loud how it's going and what fun you are up to!

WOW....I'm SO impressed that you could change your plans so close to the trip, I think that would stress me out! But good for you and they look great!!!:thumbsup2 Sounds like you've got control over thing...and you are at just a week now!! WOOHOO!!!!!!!!!:banana:

It actually makes me more relieved to change all these plans, they were stressing me out! And now that my PassPorter is full of Write-Out, it's even better. ;)

Your new plans look great. I love it when you come up with a park plan and it just feels right. :thumbsup2

That's exactly it. Those 7ams were haunting me. This feels really good, it clicks with us.

WOW! I am a fan of rope drop and I am looking forward to trying the AM EMH in May (we didn't have park hoppers last year so we avoided them) but I'm not sure I would ever drag myself to the parks for a 7 AM opening!! (I'm sure I wouldn't do it more than once at least) I think your strategy is a great one!

I know, 7 am is BRUTAL! I was thinking we could make it for the first day since we would be all excited and roaring to go, but after that we would quickly fade. :rotfl:

WOWSA! You are one super organized person!!!!! With less than a week to go you have almost everything crossed off your To-Do list. I am quite impressed!

I hope you guys have a great Christmas and an awesome trip!

I have been workin' hard!! It feels VERY good to get that To Do list done. Of course I think of little things to add to it all the time...:rolleyes:

Thank you Mary Ellen! I hope you have a great Christmas as well!!

7AM?!? That would take a lot of dedication! New plan looks super!

For those that could make the 7 am, I bet they will have the park to themselves! I can't imagine that many people can do it. We are going to TRY for MK....!

May I suggest (if you haven't already planned it this way) taking a taxi to your ADR with Joe at the Cali Grill. I'm assuming that you would be coming from DHS and that 20 bucks might be the best $20 that you spend all vacation.

Plans look good! Don't forget that there is nothing wrong with sitting by the resort pool all day too!

Happy Holidays

I really like your suggestion here. I was thinking we'd bus it, but I do believe the CR shares buses at certain times with the GF...plus, doing a cab is more relaxing and it would give us more time at DHS/Osborne Lights.

Nice catch on the plans - THANK YOU for your suggestion! :goodvibes

I am hoping the weather cooperates enough to do some pool time. Or if the parks are insane, do just what you said...relax poolside and take advantage of that beautiful resort!

Hey Brook! Your plans look great....
Flexibility and Disney go hand in hand!:goodvibes
I hope we get to say hi over at the MK after your romantic dinner!:goodvibes

I am really trying to be flexible with it all, considering the expected crowd levels. If we miss something, all well - a good attitude usually makes for a good time anyway.

I hope we get to meet up too! I will text you!

brookelizabeth

12-20-2009, 04:33 PM

As I mentioned in my last update, yesterday we celebrated Christmas with Joe's immediate family.

It was a great day! Disney talk was done, everyone is loving the new plans. :thumbsup2

Henry got some wonderful gifts...here is one of his favorite:

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs042.snc3/12968_361283420284_500090284_10093233_4809984_n.jp g

:rotfl: Auntie KK got him this little apron, hat and oven mit so he can help me in the kitchen. He LOVED it and insisted on wearing it all for quite a while. The hat was also worn to church this morning...he took it off for Sunday School, but it was back on after service!

And you might note his new slippers, yep, that's McQueen!! The box he is holding are train cookie cutters.

I also got an apron :thumbsup2

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs042.snc3/12968_361293265284_500090284_10093313_6722628_n.jp g

You can't quite see the print, but it's coffee themed. Very appropriate. :goodvibes

While at my MIL's house last night I fixed my PassPorter. It is full of Wite-Out. :rotfl: So that means NO MORE CHANGES!

Except one.

He.He.

As you may have noted in my replies above, I have switched our 50's ressie! I really didn't think it would be possible! We are now booked at 50's on our DHS day (Sunday, December 27, one week from today!), at 11:05 am. Not a perfect lunch time, but it will work. ::yes::

Since our ADR has moved, that means we won't have to leave MK early on the 28th, which is the primary reason we attempted to move it. I hope we can catch the 12:00 parade.

Thank you again to Flossbolna for the encouragement to try to change it! :goodvibes

I have decided not to ship a box to the resort. I am pretty sure it would end up being quite expensive, and since I haven't sent it yet, with the holidays coming, I don't want to risk it not showing up on time. So...I'm just going to pack a suitcase full of the food and check-it. We are flying Southwest (bags fly free) to New Orleans, and back home, so we will only have to pay for it once. :thumbsup2 Plus, that buys me more time to get the food. Whew!

Nothing has gotten done on the To Do list since my last update. BUT, I do have an addition. :laughing: I have a couple tweaks for the WeGoShop list. Just a quick email to Marge and that will be done.

We are working on the list though, I'm doing laundry right now, and Joe is cleaning. I like that. ;)

And we can finally play my favorite game:

One week from today...
We'll be relaxing at AKV! :yay: Or, if the crowds aren't too nutty, we'll be adventuring around AKV!

:cloud9:

Charleston Princess

12-20-2009, 08:39 PM

Henry has the makings of a great chef in his new apron and hat!!! :thumbsup2

Woo hoo for one week from today being at Kidani!!! I can't believe it is almost that time! :eek:

Camster0307

12-20-2009, 10:25 PM

I know I haven't been on the DIS much lately, Brook. But just wanted to wish you all a magical trip and a wonderful holiday. Can't wait to hear all about it. We just got back and had a completely magical time!

And that little Henry is still just so stinking cute!!!!!!!!

KristiMc

12-20-2009, 11:02 PM

That's great that you were able to get your ADR switched. Henry is so cute in his apron.

Have a great trip! I can't wait to read the trip report.

brookelizabeth

12-20-2009, 11:17 PM

Henry has the makings of a great chef in his new apron and hat!!! :thumbsup2

Woo hoo for one week from today being at Kidani!!! I can't believe it is almost that time! :eek:

I can't hardly believe it's almost time either...it seems surreal!

I know I haven't been on the DIS much lately, Brook. But just wanted to wish you all a magical trip and a wonderful holiday. Can't wait to hear all about it. We just got back and had a completely magical time!

And that little Henry is still just so stinking cute!!!!!!!!

Hey Cammie!!! It's so good to "see" you! Thank you for the well wishes on the trip. And I'm happy to hear you just had a great one!!! Are you going to write a TR?

Have a great Christmas! :goodvibes

That's great that you were able to get your ADR switched. Henry is so cute in his apron.

Have a great trip! I can't wait to read the trip report.

I was so surprised I could switch the ADR! :yay:

Thank you! In a way, I very much look forward to writing it all...but in another, I want it all to go veryyyyy slowly. :laughing:

Camster0307

12-21-2009, 07:33 AM

Brook - link to my new TR is in my siggie!

(look who we saw down there!)

wdwgirl03

12-21-2009, 08:03 AM

Awww, look at Henry in his apron! So cute!

YAY for only one week! :cool1:

Flossbolna

12-21-2009, 10:54 AM

Wonderful aprons!

Wow - I am amazed that you got the ADR! :woohoo: I just thought it wouzld be worth having tried it at least, but never really expected success (but hoped for it)! I think the new online system is really good. :thumbsup2

princess&her4princes

12-21-2009, 11:23 AM

WOOHOO for one more week!!!!!!!!!!!:yay::yay::yay::yay:

DWGal210

12-21-2009, 11:25 AM

Yeah, only 5 more days!! :cool1: :woohoo: :cool1:

brookelizabeth

12-21-2009, 02:35 PM

Brook - link to my new TR is in my siggie!

(look who we saw down there!)

Shut up!!!!!!!!! :rotfl: They are going to know Lauren on a first name basis pretty soon!!! :lmao:

I have your TR in my list now, will catch up ASAP! :goodvibes

Awww, look at Henry in his apron! So cute!

YAY for only one week! :cool1:

This morning he was playing with his oven mit and asked where his apron was, it was so cute!

Wonderful aprons!

Wow - I am amazed that you got the ADR! :woohoo: I just thought it wouzld be worth having tried it at least, but never really expected success (but hoped for it)! I think the new online system is really good. :thumbsup2

I never expected it either! I was thrilled, and shocked! Disney's website really bugs me with how slow and clunky it is, and even the online system is that way, but overall, it works - and is quicker than calling and waiting on hold forever! :laughing: I haven't figure out if I can bring up my booked reservations now to cancel the other 50's...do you know?

WOOHOO for one more week!!!!!!!!!!!:yay::yay::yay::yay:

Can you believe it?! :faint:

Yeah, only 5 more days!! :cool1: :woohoo: :cool1:

It's unreal, isn't it!!! Last night I was getting really excited when I was trying to sleep! LOL!

jordanyosh

12-21-2009, 02:53 PM

brookelizabeth

12-21-2009, 02:55 PM

Last night I pulled out the...

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG5429-Small/746586631_a6x4V-M.jpg
*note the laundry basket in the background there too! Speaking of which...I should really be doing some right now! :laughing:

:yay:

Henry found great fun in the suitcases being out...

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG5430-Small/746586641_dYnqY-M.jpg
Those are his sunglasses, the little green things he's holding in his hands flip down over the glasses.

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG5433-Small/746586624_GfQgH-M.jpg
What a great hiding spot :rotfl:

Today I went grocery shopping and have almost everything that we need to bring down - a few things I need to get at a different store, so we'll finish those up tonight. Here is the pile on my kitchen table:

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG5435-Small/746592780_Akjr2-M.jpg
Famous Dave's Rich & Sassy BBQ Sauce towering above all....GB if you are still reading this, I stuck that up nice and high for you! ;)

Also, I will be Tweeting again this trip! I am horrible at text messaging; however, I will be using Joe's Blackberry with a FULL keyboard :woohoo:, and I think I can Tweet pictures too! I have to figure that out. There will be updates of some sort posted regularly here: http://twitter.com/joebrookhenry

I have it currently hooked to my Facebook, but, I am going to remove that because much of my Tweeting will be with DIS friendly acronyms, and the majority of my friends on Facebook won't know what the stink I'm talking about! :rotfl: However, I do plan to post pictures/updates to Facebook during the trip. PM me with your name if you'd like to be my friend on Facebook and I'll add you! :goodvibes

Now I'm off to do laundry! :laundy:

ETA: I just figured out how to configure the Twitter/Facebook setting so my Tweets will only show to certain friends...i.e. DIS friends. :thumbsup2 Now I can do that, keep ya'll updated and not bombard other friends with random acronyms like "DHS RD, TSM FP!" :laughing:

E(again)TA: One week from today I'll be shooting up Zurg in attempts to keep him from capturing Henry!!

brookelizabeth

12-21-2009, 02:57 PM

although not optimal eating time, an early ADR means you are getting in right at opening. Also if you have an ADR that night or really any meal, you won't still be full and will be able to enjoy both meals.

excited for you!

That makes a LOT of sense! So we won't have to wait due to them being behind on tables, and we will be able to fully enjoy California Grill that night.....and perhaps a Butterfinger Cupcake from Starring Rolls as a snack between meals. :rolleyes1 Have you seen those things?! :faint:

jordanyosh

12-21-2009, 03:02 PM

That makes a LOT of sense! So we won't have to wait due to them being behind on tables, and we will be able to fully enjoy California Grill that night.....and perhaps a Butterfinger Cupcake from Starring Rolls as a snack between meals. :rolleyes1 Have you seen those things?! :faint:

No I have not seen those cupcakes...I now have to!

Oh Calif Grill:thumbsup2

Yes, you do definitely want the earliest ADR then.

GreatBiscuit

12-21-2009, 03:17 PM

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG5435-Small/746592780_Akjr2-M.jpg
Famous Dave's Rich & Sassy BBQ Sauce towering above all....GB if you are still reading this, I stuck that up nice and high for you! ;)
:lmao: I actually saw that first before I scrolled down and read the next sentence! My inlaws came down from the Twin Cities for Christmas for an un-announced surprise visit. (There's a story there...O MYLANTIS is there a story :sad2:. ) They want me to make smoked brisket for Christmas dinner so I guess I'll be breaking out my precious stash of Rich & Sassy.

brookelizabeth

12-21-2009, 03:26 PM

No I have not seen those cupcakes...I now have to!

Oh Calif Grill:thumbsup2

Yes, you do definitely want the earliest ADR then.

Food Porn thread got me last night....!

:lmao: I actually saw that first before I scrolled down and read the next sentence! My inlaws came down from the Twin Cities for Christmas for an un-announced surprise visit. (There's a story there...O MYLANTIS is there a story :sad2:. ) They want me to make smoked brisket for Christmas dinner so I guess I'll be breaking out my precious stash of Rich & Sassy.

:rotfl: that's awesome! Well, the un-announced surprise visit thing isn't so much...but the fact that you spied the Famous Dave's instantly cracks me up!

If you are so inclined, PM me your address and I'll send you some to build your supply back up! It's sold on the grocery store shelves around here, it's all we buy. That huge 'ol bottle was only like 2 bucks, I'll send you a few bottles, no prob. :thumbsup2 (package will be sent AFTER january 5 :rolleyes1)

Okay, I've been playing with Twitter/Facebook settings for 25 minutes. MUST GO DO LAUNDRY!

IluvXU

12-21-2009, 07:25 PM

Sent you a pm... so excited for you all. Henry is just to stinkin' cute!

jordanyosh

12-21-2009, 07:57 PM

Henry found great fun in the suitcases being out...

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG5430-Small/746586641_dYnqY-M.jpg
Those are his sunglasses, the little green things he's holding in his hands flip down over the glasses.

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/IMG5433-Small/746586624_GfQgH-M.jpg
What a great hiding spot :rotfl:

Great pix.

Charleston Princess

12-21-2009, 09:04 PM

Hurray for suitcases!!! Henry is so funny hiding!!! I miss the days when Connor wore pajamas with feet. :lovestruc

A.Mickey

12-21-2009, 09:25 PM

Wahoo! It is getting closer! What a cute hiding spot! I wonder if Aaron would fit in ours.:rolleyes1

I can't wait for your live updates! :dance3::dance3:

thewesterberg

12-21-2009, 09:33 PM

Things I love in your post...

1. Henry in the suitcase
2. Henry in his sunglasses
3. Henry in his sunglasses IN the suitcase
4. Famous Dave's Rich 'n Sassy. Drool.
5. That you're doing FB updates on your trip. (I wanna get 'em if it's possible and live vicariously through you!)
6. That you ignore laundry to DIS. My favorite form of procrastination as well.

Happy packing, Happy trip, and Happy Christmas!!! Have so much fun!!

brookelizabeth

12-21-2009, 09:55 PM

Sent you a pm... so excited for you all. Henry is just to stinkin' cute!

Thanks!!! :goodvibes I just added you to my Facebook!

Great pix.

Thanks! It was really funny when he tried to climb in, Joe encouraged it and then added the sunglasses.

Hurray for suitcases!!! Henry is so funny hiding!!! I miss the days when Connor wore pajamas with feet. :lovestruc

I love footie jammies too! They are so sweet. I also love a diaper butt, but do not enjoy changing said rear-end. :laughing:

Wahoo! It is getting closer! What a cute hiding spot! I wonder if Aaron would fit in ours.:rolleyes1

I can't wait for your live updates! :dance3::dance3:

You'll have to take pics if you try to get Aaron in the suitcase, it was definitely a fun time for Henry, he was all giggles! :rotfl:

Things I love in your post...

1. Henry in the suitcase
2. Henry in his sunglasses
3. Henry in his sunglasses IN the suitcase
4. Famous Dave's Rich 'n Sassy. Drool.
5. That you're doing FB updates on your trip. (I wanna get 'em if it's possible and live vicariously through you!)
6. That you ignore laundry to DIS. My favorite form of procrastination as well.

Happy packing, Happy trip, and Happy Christmas!!! Have so much fun!!

:rotfl: The DIS is my #1 form of procrastination! Yet, I can never keep up anyway!

I will try to be pretty regular about posting pics, I am thinking during our break time I'll put up some from the previous day, kinda similar to what you did!

gellybean

12-22-2009, 12:55 AM

Flossbolna

12-22-2009, 05:21 AM

I never expected it either! I was thrilled, and shocked! Disney's website really bugs me with how slow and clunky it is, and even the online system is that way, but overall, it works - and is quicker than calling and waiting on hold forever! :laughing: I haven't figure out if I can bring up my booked reservations now to cancel the other 50's...do you know?

It is quite easy, you just log in and then go to "My Dining Reservations", there is somthing about "retrieve my reservations" and you just put in your confirmation number and your phone number I think and then it shows your reservation. There is a button to cancel it then. Of course you could also call to do that...

wdwgirl03

12-22-2009, 08:17 AM

Hey, my facebook link is in my signature so if you want another DIS friend feel free to add me! :)

LOL at the picture of Henry in the suitcase! He fits perfectly. :rotfl:

brookelizabeth

12-22-2009, 02:38 PM

OMGosh! I have to get Jack-Jack's pic in our suitcase now!! TOO Stinkin' cute!!!

I can't believe how big our boys are getting. Looking back at pics from our trips last January! :sad2: Time really needs to get itself straightened out. Doesn't it know that we want it to speed up when we're sad/feelin bad etc and slow down when we're having awesome times/enjoying our children as little ones etc!!!

So excited for you guys!! Can't wait to read all about your trip! I followed you on Tweeter... sounds a bit stalkerish of me... hmmm.... :rolleyes:

And sent you a pm to add me on FB! :yay:

See ya on the real side of life! :rotfl:

:lmao: Post pictures of Jack-Jack if you do!!! :goodvibes

I know what you are saying about our boys! They went from baby to toddler in minutes, I swear it!!

I added ya on Facebook!! I'm excited to post updates - I hopefully can figure out the whole picture via mobile phone thing. I'm a computer geek, but cell phone illiterate!

It is quite easy, you just log in and then go to "My Dining Reservations", there is somthing about "retrieve my reservations" and you just put in your confirmation number and your phone number I think and then it shows your reservation. There is a button to cancel it then. Of course you could also call to do that...

Ah! That is easy...thank you!

Hey, my facebook link is in my signature so if you want another DIS friend feel free to add me! :)

LOL at the picture of Henry in the suitcase! He fits perfectly. :rotfl:

I just added you as a friend! :goodvibes Today we pulled out Henry's little suitcase, he was so excited, he packed a book and then had me zip it up and he put it in the spot right by the stairs we always put bags and things that need to go downstairs/out to the car! :laughing:

brookelizabeth

12-22-2009, 02:59 PM

Today has been a productive day, despite a little cold I am battling. I got most all of Henry's clothing organized and a few outfits in Ziplocs to make it easy for Joe to dress him in the morning. He's got short sleeve, long sleeve, shorts, and pants. We are prepared for all kinds of weather!

Now, if I could just find his swim shorts...! :rolleyes:

I also got quite a few of my shirts/outfit set.s...and discovered I still have another load of laundry to do for one specific shirt. Slightly annoying, but at least I discovered that today versus 12:01 am on the day we need to leave. ;)

We pulled out Henry's little suitcase he got for his birthday. He packed a book, had me zip it up and then put it near the stairs. He has been talking about Mickey's House all morning long!

We have gotten a bit of snow lately, but nothing I was too worried about. Then Joe mentioned something about how we are supposed to get dumped on on Christmas Day. :scared1: How bad could it be?

:surfweb: over to weather.com

http://brookelizabeth.smugmug.com/Disney-World/Planning/December-2009/weather/747477469_jEDay-O.jpg

A 2 day Winter Storm Warning?!

Here is a DIRECT QUOTE from weather.com:

A SIGNIFICANT STORM SYSTEM IS EXPECTED TO IMPACT THE UPPER MIDWEST STARTING AS EARLY AS WEDNESDAY NIGHT... AND LASTING INTO SATURDAY. DUE TO THE STRENGTH OF THIS SYSTEM AND THE PROLONGED PERIOD FOR WHICH THE SNOWFALL IS EXPECTED... THERE WILL BE MAJOR IMPACTS TO TRAVELERS... ESPECIALLY DUE TO THE UPCOMING HOLIDAY.

and it wraps up the lovely warning message with the following:

AS THE STORM SYSTEM APPROACHES... SNOWFALL AMOUNTS WILL BE FURTHER REFINED... BUT TOTAL ACCUMULATIONS WILL LIKELY EXCEED A FOOT OVER PARTS MINNESOTA AND WISCONSIN... WITH AMOUNTS IN EXCESS OF 20 INCHES POSSIBLE. GIVEN THE TIMING OF THIS SYSTEM... HOLIDAY ROAD AND AIR TRAVEL WILL BE SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACTED.

So, how bad could it be? 12-20 inches bad.

Lovely! :thumbsup2

That may not only impact our trip, but also make travel for Christmas parties with the relatives near impossible. :thumbsup2:thumbsup2

Well, I'm not going to fret. We'll just roll with it. MSP is quite a nice airport with plenty of shopping and eating, perhaps we will know it more intimately than ever before after this trip...:laughing:

On the To Do List front, there has been good progress on a few things, but only one change, and that is all the non-perishable items have been purchased and are PACKED into a suitcase (which weighs 40 pounds!).

Oh - dang. I just remembered, I still need to buy coffee. Target run! That's on the To Do list anyway! ;)

And a big HELLO to all my new Facebook friends, I can't wait to share the trip and pictures with you! :goodvibes

IN ONE WEEK FROM TODAY...
We'll be saving Little Red!