He said we could go back. October Anniversary trip!

[chicagoshannon]

I didn't think I'd be doing a PTR this soon. We just returned from Disney in May and we're going back in October! :banana:

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/Image195.jpg

I'm Shannon- stay at home mom (for now). I'm in love with Disney even more now after taking our 2 year old there in May. My favorite ride is Expedition Everest.

Madeline- 2 years old and full of energy. She'll be 2 and half on our trip. Her favorite rides are Pirates and Snow White. She talks about them daily. We'd be back at Disney right now if she had her way!

Eric- underpaid Software Engineer. His favorite ride is also Expedition Everest. He wasn't planning on going back to Disney until just before Madeline is in Kindergarten. :laughing:

Our trip this past May was somewhat unplanned too. Our original plans for Disney were to go in Feb. of 2010. We had a tough year up until March so we decided to bump up the trip. I needed the diversion of planning a trip and an actual family trip to just relax and get away.
The link to our May trip is in my signature.

Before we left for Disney I planned on getting an anual pass because Madeline and I were going to go back with my parents in 2010 in Feb. while she is still free. About a week into our May trip I realized I really wanted a family trip with just the 3 of us. When would this trip happen? How was I going to convince Eric to go back before Madeline was 5:confused3

[crocko]

Enjoyed your May TR and ready to follow along on your October PTR.

[Kirby]

Subscribing!

[My2Qtz0205]

We're planning an October anniversary trip as well! When is your anniversary? Lucky you, going twice in one year!:thumbsup2

[chicagoshannon]

Enjoyed your May TR and ready to follow along on your October PTR.

Subscribing!

Thanks for coming over :thumbsup2

We're planning an October anniversary trip as well! When is your anniversary? Lucky you, going twice in one year!:thumbsup2

Our Anniversary is Oct 23. 5 years.

[chicagoshannon]

As I was saying, about a week into our trip I realized I wanted to go with just the 3 of us. That same day Eric decided to check his work email. He was given another 2 weeks of vacation! This bumped him up to 5 weeks total. This gave me motivation to try to get another trip in THIS year!

The day after we got this great news we had one of our date nights in Disney (my parents were along so they watched Madeline) I brought up possibly coming back for our anniversary. Eric was hesitant. He didn't want to spend the money. I told him we could probably get a really good rate with my AP-around 40% off. He was taking it all in. I told him to think it over and that I didn't want to talk about it again at this point.

He kept bringing it up though. On our next date night at the Wilderness Lodge's WCC he had a fantastic time and that hotel was in the running. Our last day he took Madeline over to POFQ and she loved it so that hotel was now in the running. We still hadn't decided if we were going to go but we had a couple of hotels we were considering.

We decided to upgrade his pass to non- expiring just in case. He still had 4 days left and 8 and more options. If we didnt' use them this year we knew we'd use them when Madeline was 5. So with tickets obtained we headed home.

The day after we got home. Eric comes downstairs after his shower and says "I really don't want to go back this year. I don't want to spend the money." Of course he tells me this right before church (why does he always drop these bombs before church?). I was sad. We had only been back one day and I wasn't even ready to really talk about it yet. Apparently it had been bothering him. Our original plan was to FLY to Orlando and stay on Disney property.

I was upset and didnt' want to talk about it. I guess he thought about it some more and said "well maybe if we drive". UGH drive again. Ok maybe. He still didn't want to spend the money for a Disney hotel even at 40% off. He also wanted to check into renting a car from here and driving it down so we wouldn't put the miles on my car.

Over the next few days I checked into car rentals and they weren't all that cheap so we decided to just drive our car down "if we go". lol It wasnt' looking like I could convince him to stay on property this time so I started looking at exchanging our time share. I SO wish Disney wouldn't have dropped Interval International as their trading place.

I looked at availability and there were quite a few places available. We could stay at Westgate which was right by the condo we rented in May. I knew that would be super close. I wasn't loving the look of the place though. There was also availability at Marriott Harbor Lakes. This place looked FANTASTIC but it's in Orlando. Do we want to make that drive? How far is it anyway?

What would we decide?

[longing2Batdisney]

I'm in! :yay:
Eric reminds me of Danny...he said we could go back Dec '10(I want to see it for Christmas) than yesterday he says (while we are sitting in the looooong wait)he wants to wait until Ashton is 48" tall and can ride everything :confused3...

[my2disneyboys]

GREAT START!!!!! I am SO curious how you got him to go! Where you will stay?? Are you going to drive again :scared1:??? (I would think you could get some great airline rates last minute!!) Could you cancel the car on a weeks notice or something if you got one of those great last minute deals!?

I should consider driving vs. flying. The total cost of our flights was $860 for the 4 of us last time- and I had to pay $120 for taxi's - and then we rented a car in florida for $300.00- so i guess we can figure it cost about $1,300 for us to fly there. Because you just did the drive... with a rental, gas, lodging, food along the way... I wonder what the difference would be!? What do you think??

[longing2Batdisney]

I should consider driving vs. flying. The total cost of our flights was $860 for the 4 of us last time- and I had to pay $120 for taxi's - and then we rented a car in florida for $300.00- so i guess we can figure it cost about $1,300 for us to fly there. Because you just did the drive... with a rental, gas, lodging, food along the way... I wonder what the difference would be!? What do you think??

Hijacking here...
we drove; I not sure what your hours would be but this is how we figure it
driving was a lot CHEAPER for us...we went in two vehicles (our own--to rent a mini van for 7 days was $350 for 9 day $780) we drove straight through...we will stop at a half way point next time (10 hr ride for us--its getting too hard for us as we get older)

1. so rental cost **if you don't rent and use your vehicle; we did the oil change before and after, filter changes before, tire rotation (Danny did himself)
2. fuel **mapquest has a fuel calculator**
3. lodging on the road
4. extra food cost (way there McDonald's got our business about $50 ride there/we stopped at Cracker Barrel & Wendy's way home $80 --depends on where you stop)
5. any stops you may want to add along the way
6. tolls for FL hi-ways (about $10--round trip)

(for us w/five adults this was still the cheaper way to go to fly would have cost us $1600)

[chicagoshannon]

I'm in! :yay:
Eric reminds me of Danny...he said we could go back Dec '10(I want to see it for Christmas) than yesterday he says (while we are sitting in the looooong wait)he wants to wait until Ashton is 48" tall and can ride everything :confused3...

how frustrating! Aren't most rides 40". I know RNR is 48 what else is?

GREAT START!!!!! I am SO curious how you got him to go! Where you will stay?? Are you going to drive again :scared1:??? (I would think you could get some great airline rates last minute!!) Could you cancel the car on a weeks notice or something if you got one of those great last minute deals!?

I should consider driving vs. flying. The total cost of our flights was $860 for the 4 of us last time- and I had to pay $120 for taxi's - and then we rented a car in florida for $300.00- so i guess we can figure it cost about $1,300 for us to fly there. Because you just did the drive... with a rental, gas, lodging, food along the way... I wonder what the difference would be!? What do you think??


You'll see in the next installment. As for driving it's MUCH cheaper! I'm guessing you're about the same distance as me, maybe less. We spent about $200 on gas(mini van)-- this was before they jacked the price of gas back up :scared1: We stopped quick for food on the way so maybe $120 for food but I think we'll pack stuff this time and eat at rest areas- at least for lunch. We stayed over night one night each way. So for a decent hotel that would be about $150 total but you could definitely find a place for less.

so under $500 plus we could bring whatever we wanted in the car with us.

Our drive was about 19 hours give or take. You could do it straight through if you wanted to save on hotel and pack stuff for lunches to save on food.

I'm figuring about $400 for our trip this time which is at least $200 less then flying. If we had more kids than we'd save even more by driving.

[crocko]

how frustrating! Aren't most rides 40". I know RNR is 48 what else is?



Some that are 40", some are 44", only a couple I believe that are 48". The surprising one is Chester & Hester's Primeval Whirl -- I absolutely love this ride....sad neither of my kiddos will be able to ride this trip. (oh well...guess I'll have to bring them back another time) pirate:

[chicagoshannon]

Some that are 40", some are 44", only a couple I believe that are 48". The surprising one is Chester & Hester's Primeval Whirl -- I absolutely love this ride....sad neither of my kiddos will be able to ride this trip. (oh well...guess I'll have to bring them back another time) pirate:

I just joined your PTR. Your countdown is AWESOME! Everyone on my thread is not required to go check yours out. ;) :thumbsup2

[chicagoshannon]

I won't keep you all in suspense any longer. We chose Mariott's Harbour Lakes. It's beautiful.
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/mcoho_home_rightimage.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/mcoho_home_leftimage.jpg

The pool is Pirate themed. Madeline is going to LOVE it.

I asked around on the Orlando boards and was told it's not more then 15 minutes away. I am so, so excited! It's a 1 bedroom condo with a king bed. The sofa pulls out so Madeline will sleep there. It also has a full kitchen and washer/dryer. Oh and a balcony. I can't wait to check it out!

So here are the details:
We're driving our own car- unless we can find a fantastic deal on a rental.

October 18-25--- we'll leave our house bright and early on the 17th (a Saturday)

Our anniversary is October 23rd


Eric came around becuase
a.) if we didn't use or exchange our time share we'd loose it for the year.
b.) we only needed to pay $130 to exchange the time share
c.) we're driving so we'll pay a lot less on our transportation
d.) It's our 5th anniversary and if we didnt' go there we'd be going to Hawaii (something we said we were going to do for our 5th when we got married)
e.) there is no where around here that we wanted to go to spend our anniversary.


We'll have 4 days in the parks. That means 2 off days, plus our arrival day.

[Kirby]

Do you think you could move your BMI ticker below your other one? It causes your posts to be past the edge of the screen.

[lisalonglash]

Wahooty, I finally have a few minutes to DIS! :banana:

Yahoooooooooo on getting to go again in October!!! That deserves my favourite dancing smiley: :dancer:

That hotel looks fabulous! I'm sooo glad it all worked out for you to enjoy your anniversary at WDW :hug:

Looking forward to more!

[lisalonglash]

Do you think you could move your BMI ticker below your other one? It causes your posts to be past the edge of the screen.

Strangely, that doesn't happen on my screen :confused3 Wacky!

[KathyRN137]

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/mcoho_home_leftimage.jpg

The pool is Pirate themed. Madeline is going to LOVE it.



Awesome pool; she'll go crazy for it!!

And trust me, WDW is so much nicer at 70 degrees than at 90 degrees!! :scared:


Kathy

[longing2Batdisney]

I love the pool and the resort; and it is sooooo affordable...great deal shopping...
It is so funny that you mention Hawaii...
we were suppose to go for our 20th; we had a hip replacement and Ashton instead
**both much nicer at least Ashton is...hip was very much needed --if he wanted to walk... so 2010 was suppose to be Yellowstone and 2011 Hawaii...looks like Disney is trumping one or both...

[wlwilliams9]

Great start! I'm glad Eric came around for the anniversary trip! It only cost us $240 total for the 3 of us to fly round trip to Disney, but we scored a great deal on Spirit Air. Last year our flights cost $560 for the 3 of us on Northwest. Anyway, I can't wait to hear about more of your plans!

[BTDTGB]

Loved your last trip report, looking forward to your PTR.

[Jenjulia]

I'm so glad that Eric came around! The condo looks great. Craig and I toured a timeshare condo that looks a lot like the one you are staying at. Madeline will love that pool! Hopefully no sunburns and cooler weather this time around!

Looking forward to more!

[chicagoshannon]

Great start! I'm glad Eric came around for the anniversary trip! It only cost us $240 total for the 3 of us to fly round trip to Disney, but we scored a great deal on Spirit Air. Last year our flights cost $560 for the 3 of us on Northwest. Anyway, I can't wait to hear about more of your plans!

If we can find a deal like this we will DEFINITELY be flying!

[chicagoshannon]

Wahooty, I finally have a few minutes to DIS! :banana:

Yahoooooooooo on getting to go again in October!!! That deserves my favourite dancing smiley: :dancer:

That hotel looks fabulous! I'm sooo glad it all worked out for you to enjoy your anniversary at WDW :hug:

Looking forward to more!

Thanks!

Do you think you could move your BMI ticker below your other one? It causes your posts to be past the edge of the screen.

done

Strangely, that doesn't happen on my screen :confused3 Wacky!

it was fine on mine too but I aim to please. ;)

Awesome pool; she'll go crazy for it!!

And trust me, WDW is so much nicer at 70 degrees than at 90 degrees!! :scared:


Kathy

I know. I just hope we don't have another flukey hot weather streak this time. High 70's would be great so we can still enjoy the awesome pool!

I love the pool and the resort; and it is sooooo affordable...great deal shopping...
It is so funny that you mention Hawaii...
we were suppose to go for our 20th; we had a hip replacement and Ashton instead
**both much nicer at least Ashton is...hip was very much needed --if he wanted to walk... so 2010 was suppose to be Yellowstone and 2011 Hawaii...looks like Disney is trumping one or both...

yeah we thought we'd have 2 kids by now and we'd leave them with the grandparents. Funny how life doesn't always turn out how you plan it. :laughing:

Loved your last trip report, looking forward to your PTR.

Thank you!

I'm so glad that Eric came around! The condo looks great. Craig and I toured a timeshare condo that looks a lot like the one you are staying at. Madeline will love that pool! Hopefully no sunburns and cooler weather this time around!

Looking forward to more!
really in Florida? I'm looking forward to staying there.

[chicagoshannon]

I don't have much of a plan going yet. We have 4 days and I'm planning on 2 of them being at Magic Kingdom. I was thinking of doing 2 day at DHS and then 2 day at AK but Maybe we'll do a morning at DHS and then an afternoon at Epcot. OR Split the AK day with Epcot. We'll see.

Here's the tentative schedule:

Oct 18- arrive at Marriott Harbour Lakes, go swimming
Oct 19- DHS/Epcot
Oct 20- MK
Oct 21- off day swim, mini golf, hotel touring
Oct 22- AK
Oct 23- Our anniversary- dinner at Ohana, DTD for Balloon ride
Oct 24- MK
Oct 25- leave

It is possible that we do MK and Ohana on the 23rd and do DTD on the 24th.

There is a slim possibility that we'll get tickets to MNSSHP and then just go to the park that day at 4pm giving us 2.5 days at the MK. Probably won't happen though. We're also still debating about another character meal. If we do I'm thiking either Crystal Palace, Playhouse Disney (forget the name of the restaurant) or Chef Mickey's.

[longing2Batdisney]

Are you thinking of the "Vine and Dine"?
good thoughts on a plan so far

[annnewjerz]

The pool looks fantastic! Can't wait to hear more about your plans as they start to come together :thumbsup2

[my2disneyboys]

I just joined your PTR. Your countdown is AWESOME! Everyone on my thread is not required to go check yours out. ;) :thumbsup2

thanks for requiring me to go check this out.. I love it! We started a Disney A-Z book this week... I posted some pics on my pre trip report!

[my2disneyboys]

The pool looks GREAT! The plans sound great too. My suggestion for the character dining would be Chef Mickeys! We LOVED it there.

[Jenjulia]

really in Florida? I'm looking forward to staying there.


Yep! Craig and I went to Florida for 12 days when Christopher was two, for our 7th anniversary. He stayed home with the grandparents and we rented a convertible. Craig and I drove around the entire state of Florida on our trip. Down the Atlantic side, up the Gulf side.

Anyhow back to the time share....we went on a tour in Orlando to get free tickets to any WDW park for a day. We picked Epcot. I am pretty sure it was Marriott but I don't remember where it was in the Orlando area. The condo was decorated like the pictures you posted. Yellow, blue, red, white. It was a really nice place.

[reyasmommy]

Your hotel looks amazing! It will be nice to have a bigger room with such a small child.

Hope you have a wonderful anniversary!;)

[chicagoshannon]

Are you thinking of the "Vine and Dine"?
good thoughts on a plan so far

yes I was thank you!

The pool looks fantastic! Can't wait to hear more about your plans as they start to come together :thumbsup2

I'm at a planning stand still at the moment.

thanks for requiring me to go check this out.. I love it! We started a Disney A-Z book this week... I posted some pics on my pre trip report!

isn't it great!

The pool looks GREAT! The plans sound great too. My suggestion for the character dining would be Chef Mickeys! We LOVED it there.

I would like to do chef mickey's. My only thing is I"m sure we can only do 1 character meal and I kind of want to do that for breakfast before park opening.

Yep! Craig and I went to Florida for 12 days when Christopher was two, for our 7th anniversary. He stayed home with the grandparents and we rented a convertible. Craig and I drove around the entire state of Florida on our trip. Down the Atlantic side, up the Gulf side.

Anyhow back to the time share....we went on a tour in Orlando to get free tickets to any WDW park for a day. We picked Epcot. I am pretty sure it was Marriott but I don't remember where it was in the Orlando area. The condo was decorated like the pictures you posted. Yellow, blue, red, white. It was a really nice place.

and you guys didn't get suckered in? haha

Your hotel looks amazing! It will be nice to have a bigger room with such a small child.

Hope you have a wonderful anniversary!;)

I can't wait to see that pool in person!



So I'm at a kind of mental block with planning. I'm starting to think we're going back too soon. :scared1: Well not to soon to go just too soon to get excited about planning. lol :laughing:

[KathyRN137]

I would like to do chef mickey's. My only thing is I"m sure we can only do 1 character meal and I kind of want to do that for breakfast before park opening.


Well, you could breakfast with Pooh & Friends at the Crystal Palace in the Magic Kingdom or with Playhouse Disney Friends (Jo Jo, Goliath, Little Einsteins) at Play & Dine at Hollywood and Vine at the Studios.
Both start breakfast ADRs at 8:05!

We've done both more than once and the food (buffet) is very good at both breakfasts :thumbsup2


Kathy

[CherylA]

Well, you could breakfast with Pooh & Friends at the Crystal Palace in the Magic Kingdom or with Playhouse Disney Friends (Jo Jo, Goliath, Little Einsteins) at Play & Dine at Hollywood and Vine at the Studios.
Both start breakfast ADRs at 8:05!

We've done both more than once and the food (buffet) is very good at both breakfasts :thumbsup2


Kathy

My suggestion would be Crystal Palace for Breakfast, not only is the food good, the characters are wonderful, you can get an early ADR and it's one of the cheapest Character meals out there. All that said I've never done Hollywood and Vine and also don't know about the pricing there.

[Kirby]

Thanks for changing your siggy! It just makes it easier here for me to read. I meant to say that a couple of days ago but have been involved with my daughter's graduation activities. I think it all depends on how your pixels are set up on your computer.

[chicagoshannon]

Thanks for the CP suggestion. We did that this last trip. We'll see what we do. We have about a month to decide. :) We haven't really talked about Disney since we booked the trip. Well Madeline talks about it daily but just to say she wants to ride Pirates and Snow White. I must hear that at least 4 times a day.

[chicagoshannon]

Not much to update so I thought I'd list the attractions I'm most excited to go on this time.

People Mover
Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
Hall of Presidents
Country Bears
Aladin's flying carpets
Mickey and Minnies houses

We missed all of those in May.

AK:
Lion King show
Rafiki's planet watch
character trails
dino dig

MGM:
Backlot tour
One Man's dream
animation
playhouse disney characters

Epcot:
not really planning on going here unless M is 40 inches by October ;)

IF we do I want to explore the right side of World Showcase


Next time I"ll post some baby pictures of M. :)

[my2disneyboys]

:woohoo:congrats on the 1 pound down!!! :thumbsup2

[lisalonglash]

People Mover
Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
Hall of Presidents
Country Bears
Aladin's flying carpets
Mickey and Minnies houses

We missed all of those in May.

The Laugh Floor was hysterical, you'll love it! I'm looking forward to trying Country Bears too :thumbsup2

AK:
Lion King show
Rafiki's planet watch
character trails
dino dig

We did the Maharajah trail, it was great - even has a bat house! I'm REALLY looking forward to seeing the Lion King this time!

MGM:
Backlot tour
One Man's dream
animation
playhouse disney characters

Looks good! The Backlot Tour was fun, we enjoyed it

Epcot:
not really planning on going here unless M is 40 inches by October ;)

IF we do I want to explore the right side of World Showcase

You should definitely do WS - that's our absolute favourite place in WDW! :banana:

Next time I"ll post some baby pictures of M. :)

Can't wait - baby pictures are so sweet! princess:

PS: My boys were digging through old pictures the other day (don't ask me way, no clue lol) and came across a picture of the morning Mickey was born. The picture is of him being weighed right after birth - I nearly forgot how big he was at birth (9lbs 6ozs) :rotfl2:

[chicagoshannon]

:woohoo:congrats on the 1 pound down!!! :thumbsup2

thanks I wish it was more but oh well. Maybe next week. :)

The Laugh Floor was hysterical, you'll love it! I'm looking forward to trying Country Bears too :thumbsup2



We did the Maharajah trail, it was great - even has a bat house! I'm REALLY looking forward to seeing the Lion King this time!



Looks good! The Backlot Tour was fun, we enjoyed it



You should definitely do WS - that's our absolute favourite place in WDW! :banana:



Can't wait - baby pictures are so sweet! princess:

PS: My boys were digging through old pictures the other day (don't ask me way, no clue lol) and came across a picture of the morning Mickey was born. The picture is of him being weighed right after birth - I nearly forgot how big he was at birth (9lbs 6ozs) :rotfl2:

The Country Bears was my favorite when I was a kid. I can't wait for Madeline to see it. :)

9lbs 6oz is big. My MIL would be proud. I think she thought Madeline was scrawny at 7lbs 6 oz. haha

[chicagoshannon]

ok I hope you all are ready for picture overload. ;)
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSCN1157.jpg
7 weeks
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSCN1349.jpg
16 weeks
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSCN1674.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSCN1476.jpg
1st swing ride
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSCN1842.jpg

The next few are from our 2008 Orlando trip to Universal and Sea World
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0377-1.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0199.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0152.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0097-1.jpg

First Birthday
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0006-8.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0169.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0246-1.jpg

summer 2008
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0006-9.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0017-7.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0035-7.jpg

Fall 2008
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0093-2.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0212.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0210.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0019-10.jpg

winter/Christmas 2008
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0039-6.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_0115-1.jpg

[wlwilliams9]

The pics of Madeline are adorable! She is such a cutie and a ham for the camera!! Isn't is sad and exciting at the same time to see how much they have grown? I can't believe Emily will be 3 in a couple of weeks.:sad2:


Emily had the same Christmas dress this last year!

[my2disneyboys]

LOVE the pictures!!! She is so sweet. I love the one of her with the white hat and red coat- in the snow!! Thanks for sharing!!!

[KathyRN137]

Awww. She's so sweet! :cutie:


Kathy

[lisalonglash]

Sooooooooooooooo adorable! Thank you for sharing the pictures of your sweet little princess:

[lisalonglash]

The Country Bears was my favorite when I was a kid. I can't wait for Madeline to see it. :)

I hope she loves it!

9lbs 6oz is big. My MIL would be proud. I think she thought Madeline was scrawny at 7lbs 6 oz. haha

Madeline's birth weight is pretty standard, isn't it? The average is like 7-1/2lbs, I think. I just grow 'em big, that's all - Tigger was 8-2 and Mickey was 9-6. Good thing we're done - who knows how big the next one would have been! :laughing:

[chicagoshannon]

The pics of Madeline are adorable! She is such a cutie and a ham for the camera!! Isn't is sad and exciting at the same time to see how much they have grown? I can't believe Emily will be 3 in a couple of weeks.:sad2:


Emily had the same Christmas dress this last year!

I don't even want to think about Madeline being 3. Thankfull I still have about 10 months before that happens!

LOVE the pictures!!! She is so sweet. I love the one of her with the white hat and red coat- in the snow!! Thanks for sharing!!!

My camera takes the best pictures outside on an overcast day. I think that white hat brings out M's eyes really well. :)

Awww. She's so sweet! :cutie:


Kathy
thanks

Sooooooooooooooo adorable! Thank you for sharing the pictures of your sweet little princess:

thank you

I hope she loves it!



Madeline's birth weight is pretty standard, isn't it? The average is like 7-1/2lbs, I think. I just grow 'em big, that's all - Tigger was 8-2 and Mickey was 9-6. Good thing we're done - who knows how big the next one would have been! :laughing:

Yep I'd say Madeline's weight was average and I'm so thankful she wasn't any bigger, because OUCH! Eric was over 10 lbs and his brother was over 12lbs so MIL always goes by those standards. :eek:

[longing2Batdisney]

Love the pictures! of Madeline; great growth chart...
congrats! on the weight loss! I need to address that situation next now that most stress in our life should be at a minimum.
Can't wait to hear which breakfast you decide to go with... we want to do at least two next trip...if I go with the DDP I think I may do one each day we are there; but, we still have not decided about that, yet tooooo far off! will follow along with you and decide later...

[chicagoshannon]

we still have't discussed our ADR's more then deciding on Ohana for our anniversary.

I just realized/remembered that food and wine will be going on while we're there. I think we're going to have to make an evening stop at Epcot for sure.

[crocko]

Sounds good!

By the way, strolling through World Showcase during the evening....Hard to Beat that!

[chicagoshannon]

We can now book ADR's online. WOO HOO!!! I'm so excited!

[longing2Batdisney]

We can now book ADR's online. WOO HOO!!! I'm so excited!
Seen that on facebook today!

strolling through World Showcase does sound like a great idea!!
not familiar w/Ohana but heard good reviews....

[leamom2princesses]

Can't wait to hear how the online ADR system works. Sounds great to meet. You'll have to let us know. :yay:

[chicagoshannon]

I have about a month before I can use it. It will be nice for last minute ADR's too. LIke if we wake up in the morning and decide we want to to Sci Fi for lunch or something. Just quick check the site. :)

[chicagoshannon]

Sounds good!

By the way, strolling through World Showcase during the evening....Hard to Beat that!

We're seriously considereing home schooling Madeline. What curriculum do you guys use? We're thinking of using Alpha Omega Horizons. At least for preschool.

[crocko]

Well, as you found out...we're going to use Konos. For math, though, we're starting out with Saxon Math.

[longing2Batdisney]

Well, as you found out...we're going to use Konos. For math, though, we're starting out with Saxon Math.
I did homeschool with my older two a from 1999-2002 (they went back into the mainstream for social reasons--could not find any groups they liked--now they have more groups than you can shake a stick at:laughing:) . I loved the Saxon Math, I used Alpha Omega with Dayne up to third grade. We switched to aBeka --I loved it!!! they have the best currc. packaged into one. Plan to start w/ Ashton in the fall. Good Luck!!!! We already have workbooks I found at Dollar Tree (Seasme Street chart.). and He loves the Brainy Baby collection; we were shocked when he learned to "read" his ABC's not memorize the song... ;)

[lisalonglash]

Kewl, online ADRs! :thumbsup2

You should definitely do the Food & Wine "eating/drinking around the world" evening - Grumpy and I had an absolute blast doing that!

We don't use any set curriculum with our boys - we have a kazillion books and other resources and just go with whatever each boy is interested in that day/week/month. Traditional "school at home" curriculum doesn't work well at all here, so we go with what works! I'm sure you and Madeline will figure out something that works for you too :goodvibes

[KathyRN137]

I just realized/remembered that food and wine will be going on while we're there. I think we're going to have to make an evening stop at Epcot for sure.

Sounds great! Just don't do that on a weekend night!! :crowded:


Kathy

[chicagoshannon]

Well, as you found out...we're going to use Konos. For math, though, we're starting out with Saxon Math.

I'll have to check out Saxon Math. I haven't come across that one in my research yet.

I did homeschool with my older two a from 1999-2002 (they went back into the mainstream for social reasons--could not find any groups they liked--now they have more groups than you can shake a stick at:laughing:) . I loved the Saxon Math, I used Alpha Omega with Dayne up to third grade. We switched to aBeka --I loved it!!! they have the best currc. packaged into one. Plan to start w/ Ashton in the fall. Good Luck!!!! We already have workbooks I found at Dollar Tree (Seasme Street chart.). and He loves the Brainy Baby collection; we were shocked when he learned to "read" his ABC's not memorize the song... ;)

I'll have to check out baby brainy. Madeline is doing pretty well with her ABC's now. She just gets hung up on M, keeps calling it W. She's doing amazingly well with math. I should't be surprised though since both Eric and I are math inclined. Does aBeka have a preschool program? I'm looking at AOHorizons or Timberdoodle. I'll have to double check aBeka.

Kewl, online ADRs! :thumbsup2

You should definitely do the Food & Wine "eating/drinking around the world" evening - Grumpy and I had an absolute blast doing that!

We don't use any set curriculum with our boys - we have a kazillion books and other resources and just go with whatever each boy is interested in that day/week/month. Traditional "school at home" curriculum doesn't work well at all here, so we go with what works! I'm sure you and Madeline will figure out something that works for you too :goodvibes

I need the set curriculum to start off. I need to get a feel for what I'm doing. We'll start with that and see how it goes.

Sounds great! Just don't do that on a weekend night!! :crowded:


Kathy

Yeah we won't be there on a Saturday. It will either be AK day or DHS day.

[BTDTGB]

Shannon do you have a link to the online ADR system. Making reservations for my DW's girls trip and I would prefer not to wait on hold. Thanks!

[chicagoshannon]

Shannon do you have a link to the online ADR system. Making reservations for my DW's girls trip and I would prefer not to wait on hold. Thanks!

I don't have a link but what you do is go under restaurants and then select the restaurant you want. There will be an option there to make reservations. Good luck. :)

[BTDTGB]

Thanks Shannon. They will be 90 days out on Sunday, so I should be able to get everything they want.

[longing2Batdisney]

found a web site you may be interested in
I have trying to put together worksheets for Ashton and friends
http://www.earlychildhoodlinks.com/teachers/coloringpages.htm
http://www.hellokids.com/
the second one if you scroll down on the right will have a ticker on the fourth pg you can create color sheets w/the child's name
Hope you have fun!!!creating and Madeline has fun learning...

[chicagoshannon]

found a web site you may be interested in
I have trying to put together worksheets for Ashton and friends
http://www.earlychildhoodlinks.com/teachers/coloringpages.htm
http://www.hellokids.com/
the second one if you scroll down on the right will have a ticker on the fourth pg you can create color sheets w/the child's name
Hope you have fun!!!creating and Madeline has fun learning...

Thanks. I"ll have to go bookmark those. :)

We got the Leap Frog Letter Factory DVD from the library. Madeline now knows most of the sounds the letters make. I just put the word factory on hold too. She absolutely loves them.



Sorry I haven't been updating this much. Not much to tell really. I'm not really planning this trip so much <gasp> Basically just waiting for our 90 day to come.

We've been busy doing summer things. Madeline is taking an art class and when that's over it will be swimming lessons. We've also been very busy potty training. Madeline has almost got it down. :)

[longing2Batdisney]

CONGRATULATIONS! :yay: on the weight loss!!!
I just noticed your ticker on my2disneyboys's thread
what are you doing?; I need to start something myself:upsidedow: just hard at home w/the tots:upsidedow...

are you finished potty training??? We REALLY started the process on Wed. :scared:and today he is driving me nuts. I am trying the kitchen timer we were up to the 25 min but I had to set back to 18 min he either goes right before the timer or he doesn't need to go at all:rolleyes1. So, I tried to set it at 10 min intervals when he is "empty" his words; but, not working. So, I just told Danny I'm relaxing today because I'm getting aggravated :headache:and we will start fresh tomorrow. For now I'll just take him when I go for the rest of the day; but that messes up the timer schedule we had started.:confused:

Any tips (I know you have a girl) but, I just don't remember the other two being this hard. I thought he was going to do it at WDW; but, surgery screwed that up.:upsidedow

[Jenjulia]

Shannon, it's almost time to make ADR's. Are you ready?

Jen

[chicagoshannon]

CONGRATULATIONS! :yay: on the weight loss!!!
I just noticed your ticker on my2disneyboys's thread
what are you doing?; I need to start something myself:upsidedow: just hard at home w/the tots:upsidedow...

are you finished potty training??? We REALLY started the process on Wed. :scared:and today he is driving me nuts. I am trying the kitchen timer we were up to the 25 min but I had to set back to 18 min he either goes right before the timer or he doesn't need to go at all:rolleyes1. So, I tried to set it at 10 min intervals when he is "empty" his words; but, not working. So, I just told Danny I'm relaxing today because I'm getting aggravated :headache:and we will start fresh tomorrow. For now I'll just take him when I go for the rest of the day; but that messes up the timer schedule we had started.:confused:

Any tips (I know you have a girl) but, I just don't remember the other two being this hard. I thought he was going to do it at WDW; but, surgery screwed that up.:upsidedow

I'm just being really careful about what I put in my mouth. It's very slow. I'm actually down another pound or 2 but forget the password to my ticker. lol

We're done potty training. She still pees in her diaper at night but is usually dry after nap time. I take her out in underwear now for the most part unless we have a longer drive. She tells me all the time now before she has to go. :) I cant' believe she's trained!

My only tip is put him in underwear so he can feel when he's wet. That's the only way I was able to train M. She never knew when her diaper or pull up was wet.

Shannon, it's almost time to make ADR's. Are you ready?

Jen

I think we're just going to do Ohana for our anniversary and that's it. We'll see. hopefully we'll get in since we have to wait until exactly 90 days before our anniversary to make the ADR.

[longing2Batdisney]

Glad you're back, missed you!!!:wave2:
Must be getting excited Oct. getting closer :yay:[/COLOR]

[QUOTE=chicagoshannon;32615699]I'm just being really careful about what I put in my mouth. It's very slow. I'm actually down another pound or 2 but forget the password to my ticker. lol
CONGRATULATIONS!!! I just need to excercise; Danny finally got the pool going and A can finally get in so hopefully that will help to take off some pounds. Keep up the great work!!!

My only tip is put him in underwear so he can feel when he's wet. That's the only way I was able to train M. She never knew when her diaper or pull up was wet.
[COLOR="Red"]I purchased the pull up "cool alert" (very hard to find)but he just goes Ooooo!!! so, we started two days ago no underwear, no pull up, no diaper (until BM time and nap & nite). It seems to be a very long process w/him...we'll get there. Now I just remind him about every hour and we are trying the sticker chart, again.
Congrats! to M on being a "big" girl, now!!! I think Gwendolyn was almost 3.5 by the time we were completely dry at night!! I used plastic covered trainers w/a trainer at night for her (already bought them for A when we get that far.
QUOTE]

[Jenjulia]

Congrats on the potty training!

90 days is coming up fast, though. It should be easier to get a ressie the dates you are going.

Did you decide if you were going to go to MNSSHP?

[leamom2princesses]

Hi Shannon! Congrats on the weight loss and potty training! It makes things much easier when they use the potty.

Hope you're having an awesome summer!

Leanne

[chicagoshannon]

HI everyone! Thanks for keeping up with this report better then me ;)

The time is getting nearer and I'm finally getting back into the planning a little. SO our plans look like this

October 19- Monday- DHS/EPCOT- I think we've decided on doing the Disney Playhouse breakfast buffet. BUT I think we're going to try for the latest breakfast time (anyone know when that is?) Also which characters are there? Madeline would LOVE if Darby was there. lol Madeline really wants to ride Nemo again so we'll go to Epcot in the afternoon. Will try to see some countries also starting at Canada this time ;) Food and Wine will be going on so maybe just snacks around the world for supper OR maybe we'll finally make it over to the Beach Club for Beaches and Cream

October 20- Tuesday-OFF day Might go to the Kenedy Space Center this day. Not sure yet. Otherwise we'll enjoy the pool and maybe go to Typhoon Lagoon.

October 21- Wednesday- Magic Kingdom This is the day Madeline is looking forward to the most. Not sure where we'll eat today. Still trying to convince Eric that eating at Crystal palace again is a good idea. lol

October 22- Thursday Animal Kingdom This is our make up day. Hopefully it won't be 100 degrees this time and we'll be able to enjoy it more. :) Looking forward to letting Madeline play in the boneyard. Depending on how this day goes we'll either swing over to the Magic Kingdom again or just go back to the resort for pool time. Eric loved the Tusker House breakfast so maybe we'll try that again

October 23- Friday Our 5 Year Anniversary We'll have dinner at Ohana hopefully and then head over to DTD for the balloon ride hopefully. We'll try to sleep in (yeah right with Madeline) and then do whatever this day. Maybe Typhoon Lagoon or just hang out.

October 24- Saturday Magic Kingdom It's looking like the busiest day but I want it to be our last park. We're just going to enjoy this day with no ADR's or plans. We'll let Madeline choose.

October 25- Sunday head home.

As of now we're still planning on driving.

After I get our Adr's then I'll do the plans for the day. Madeline hasn't stopped talking about Disney since we got back in May. She keeps asking "Pirate Ride?" PLEEEEEEEEEASE. LOL She's so cute!

[longing2Batdisney]

HI everyone!
The time is getting nearer and I'm finally getting back into the planning a little.

After I get our Adr's then I'll do the plans for the day. Madeline hasn't stopped talking about Disney since we got back in May. She keeps asking "Pirate Ride?" PLEEEEEEEEEASE. LOL She's so cute!

About time...:lmao: just kidding...take your time enjoy your summer with Madeline

that is soooo cute...how she is still excited about Disneyprincess:
you will need to make time to ride the Pirate ride when you walk in the park, lunch time, and walking out of the park and anytime you can muster in betweenpirate:

can't wait to hear how your ADR's go and see what how your final plans turn out...so far so good

by the way you need to check this thread out--it will def. increase your excitement of going to WDW
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2227119

[chicagoshannon]

About time...:lmao: just kidding...take your time enjoy your summer with Madeline

that is soooo cute...how she is still excited about Disneyprincess:
you will need to make time to ride the Pirate ride when you walk in the park, lunch time, and walking out of the park and anytime you can muster in betweenpirate:

can't wait to hear how your ADR's go and see what how your final plans turn out...so far so good

by the way you need to check this thread out--it will def. increase your excitement of going to WDW
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2227119

Thanks for the link. Eric asked me yesterday "Pirates won't be closed when we're there will it?" LOL :scared1: if it is.

[Jenjulia]

Yay! Happy to see the updates! It sounds like a fun trip!

I've spent the morning watching airplane videos on youtube with Nicholas. There are times I really wish we were driving...

[chicagoshannon]

Jen- I'm sure he'll be ok. Too bad they don't let people go meet the pilots anymore. That was always something to look forward to when I was a kid.

SO I'm getting VERY nervous about Ohana. I think we're going to have to come up with a plan B. I've been looking online and it's booked solid so far for the week or so before we get there :(

[lisalonglash]

Shannon, your plans look great! :thumbsup2 Eating dinner around the world in Epcot was sooooo much fun - I highly recommend it! :goodvibes Oooh, Kennedy Space Centre would be soooo cool! Not that we haven't spent from Sunday to Wednesday glued to NASA TV for the shuttle launch or anything :rolleyes1 I've heard great things about the TH breakfast - we're looking forward to it! Looks like a great plan for your anniversary :wizard:

After I get our Adr's then I'll do the plans for the day. Madeline hasn't stopped talking about Disney since we got back in May. She keeps asking "Pirate Ride?" PLEEEEEEEEEASE. LOL She's so cute!

Awww, how sweet is she?!?! princess:

[Jenjulia]

Jen- I'm sure he'll be ok. Too bad they don't let people go meet the pilots anymore. That was always something to look forward to when I was a kid.

SO I'm getting VERY nervous about Ohana. I think we're going to have to come up with a plan B. I've been looking online and it's booked solid so far for the week or so before we get there :(

It looks like your anniversary is a 4 on touring plans, so maybe that will make a difference? I hope so!! I will be crossing my fingers, saying a prayer and making a wish for you! :wizard:

I sure hope you are correct about Nicholas. I am hoping I am over worrying instead of underworrying. I've been working on ideas for on the airplane. I read online somewhere about buying little $1 gifts, etc...and wrapping them in paper so that they can open them up every once in a while to keep them busy. J's getting a leapster for her birthday so that both little ones have one to keep them busy and they can trade off with Christopher for the dvd player.

[GreatBiscuit]

Your plans look fantastic! I'm hoping O'hana is a go for launch! Can't wait to hear how it all turns out!

[chicagoshannon]

Small dining update. Ok so we decided to try The Playhouse disney breakfast at DHS. I can make that reservation tomorrow.

I was messing around on the online reservation site a bit ago and decided to just see if Chef Mickey's was available on the 18th (arrival day). Well it WAS so I made an ADR for 5:25pm. Now I haven't run it by Eric yet but thought I better book it just in case. By the end of this week I'll have all of our ADR's made and will know which to cancel.

Now I have to go look up how late breakfast is served at H&V so I'm ready for tomorrow. I know I'm cutting it close. lol

[longing2Batdisney]

can't wait to hear how things go...

[chicagoshannon]

I'll be giving updates every day.

I'm thinking of setting something up for every day. Any suggestions? I'll just cancel the ones we dont' end up wanting later.

[chicagoshannon]

Ok I just got an ADR for 8:10 for Playhouse Disney breakfast (or whatever it's called) :) hopefully this good luck will keep going when I try for Ohana on Friday. Although the food there does make me a bit nervous.

[longing2Batdisney]

I happy you were able to get in at the vine & dine w/ playhouse disney characters. Madeline is going to love it!!!
crossing fingers for you on Ohana's.

[chicagoshannon]

I happy you were able to get in at the vine & dine w/ playhouse disney characters. Madeline is going to love it!!!
crossing fingers for you on Ohana's.

Do you know which characters are there? On All ears it said JoJo and Goliath but M has no clue who they are. I'm hoping it's someone else.


I'm thinking about trying for Ohana tomorrow just in case we don't get in on our actual anniversary. Seems like ohana is a popular choice for Fridays.

[longing2Batdisney]

I want to say it was also the Eienstiens characters (spelling) --do not believe the MMCH or winnie the pooh characters visit. A use to love JoJo and Goliath when he seen them at the dance party he was soooo excited but you can find them on the playhouse internet site...

[chicagoshannon]

I want to say it was also the Eienstiens characters (spelling) --do not believe the MMCH or winnie the pooh characters visit. A use to love JoJo and Goliath when he seen them at the dance party he was soooo excited but you can find them on the playhouse internet site...

Thanks. I'll look that up. :)


Ok just booked 'Ohana for Tuesday at 5:20 just in case it's not available on Friday. Tomorrow I'll book for our 1st Magic Kingdom day. Not sure if I'll do Crystal Palace or Liberty Tree Tavern.

I'm trying to stick to buffets or family style since Madeline is free. ;)


Eric really liked Tusker House so I might try for that one for Thursday.

[longing2Batdisney]

sounds like a great plan!!! so far!:thumbsup2

:flower3:

[crocko]

Sorry if I've missed something, but I'm curious as to why you are booking on a daily basis?

[longing2Batdisney]

sorry this is quoted from the WDW website
Playhouse Disney's Play 'N Dine Character Dining at Hollywood & Vine Restaurant — Join popular Playhouse Disney pals, such as JoJo and Goliath from JoJo's Circus, and June and Leo from Disney's Little Einsteins, at the Hollywood & Vine restaurant as they host two fun-filled, musical meals: a breakfast buffet and a lunch buffet.

Character Dining Breakfast Buffet: Start your day with song. Sing along with your hosts to familiar Playhouse Disney tunes. Featured on the breakfast buffet are favorites like Mickey Mouse-shaped waffles, frittatas and fresh fruit.

Character Dining Lunch Buffet: The Playhouse Disney pals continue the festivities at Hollywood & Vine from breakfast through lunch for more singing, dancing and playing. Across the lunch buffet, find kid- and adult-friendly entrees, such as baked chicken and assorted deli selections.


**hope this helps you on the playhouse ressies**

http://tv.disney.go.com/playhouse/allshows/index.html
this is the website that you can find clips of playhouse disney on

Have a great day!
C

[chicagoshannon]

Sorry if I've missed something, but I'm curious as to why you are booking on a daily basis?

We're not staying on property. ;) I'm loving the online booking because of this!

[crocko]

That's what I was missing!

Good luck getting the rest of your ressies.

[chicagoshannon]

That's what I was missing!

Good luck getting the rest of your ressies.

THanks :) I need to go read your PTR. I'm so behind on them!


Just made ressies for our 1st Magic Kingdom day. This online thing is too easy. I got CP for 8:10am and Liberty Tree for 5:05pm.

Tomorrow I think I"ll try for Donald's Safari Breakfast.

I don't know how I"m ever going to be able to cancel some of them!

[crocko]

Crystal Palace at 8:10?!?

Nice!

[Jenjulia]

Congrats on the ressies! :goodvibes

Looks like some really great times! I'm glad you are getting all the places that you wanted to eat at. Are you still planning to make Ohana reservations for your anniversary?

It seems like forever until we make our ADR's! I can't wait until we do though!!

[GreatBiscuit]

Congrats on the dining Mojo - I hope the rest work out for you as well!

[chicagoshannon]

Thanks everyone. The only one left that I really want is Ohana for our Anniversary. BUT it wouldn't be so bad if we didn't get it. We could just go to DTD and do the Balloon in Flight ride and maybe take a ride on the boat to Riverside (where we spent our honeymoon)

[chicagoshannon]

Ok today's update is: Tusker House 8:10 am. This was Eric's favorite. We'll see if we go or not. ;)

[lisalonglash]

Wow, you're doing sooooo well on getting your ADRs! :banana: We, too, are doing a couple of early breakfast ADRs (TH at 8:00am and CP at 8:00am, both an hour before park opening!) - won't it be neat for you and I to see an empty MK and AK? :woohoo:

Sending good ADR mojo for getting your 'Ohana dinner!

[chicagoshannon]

Lisa- I need to go check out your PTR again. I'm so sorry I've been such a slacker.


Got Ohana for 5:05 for our anniversary. :) Tomorrow is the last day I need to make an ADR. I think I'm going to do the Plaza.

So our AdR's look like this:

Sunday 18th- Chef Mickey KEEP THIS ONE- arrival day

Monday 19th- Vine and Dine Playhouse Disney characters- up in the air

Tuesday 20th- Ohana most likely cancel this one- non park day; maybe we'll go hotel hopping and try for Beaches and Cream for lunch. :)

Wednesday 21st- Crystal Palace and Liberty Tree Tavern.

Thursday 22nd- Tusker House

Friday 23rd- Ohana- our anniversary- non park day most likely do CHaracters in Flight

Saturday 24th- try for the Plaza- last day

We'll make our final decisions on restaurants sometime between now and October. lol

[my2disneyboys]

I love the dining choices!!

[Jenjulia]

Great! I'm so happy for you because I know how much you wanted Ohana for your anniversary. I can't wait to read your trip report and hear what you thought of your dining choices. :goodvibes

[longing2Batdisney]

great dining ADR's...
is the Tusker House character dining???
if you're not sure about Playhouse disney dining what about Chip & Dale or the Tusker House w/Donald...just thoughts or what about princesses is Madeline into the Princesses yet??? I know Ashton would love the Playhouse dining...another thought is to pick up a DVD w/JoJo and Einstiens???

[chicagoshannon]

Ok got the Plaza but not exactly the time I wanted. Who knew THAT would be the hardest one to get into. lol

[longing2Batdisney]

Ok got the Plaza but not exactly the time I wanted. Who knew THAT would be the hardest one to get into. lol
so...do you have (ADR's)everything now??? is that part of the planning complete?

I'm happy you were able to get all that you wanted to!

[chicagoshannon]

so...do you have (ADR's)everything now??? is that part of the planning complete?

I'm happy you were able to get all that you wanted to!

Yes my ADR's are done. :) Well we'll need to cancel some of them but I'm not going to worry about that just yet.

What I am stressing about a little is Madeline really wants to go to the Space Center. We have 2 non park days- tuesday and Friday. I was planning on just relaxing those days. If we go one of them that will be 4 days in a row out at a park. Not sure if we can handle that. :laughing:

[crocko]

Yay! Glad you got your ADR's scheduled!

[longing2Batdisney]

Maybe plan the space center in the beginning of the week; so, you will still have the later part of the week for a relaxing day:idea:--sounds like a fun day trip

but, remember you can always relax when you get home:laughing:
that way you can keep having adventures:upsidedow

[chicagoshannon]

Maybe plan the space center in the beginning of the week; so, you will still have the later part of the week for a relaxing day:idea:--sounds like a fun day trip

but, remember you can always relax when you get home:laughing:
that way you can keep having adventures:upsidedow

true, very true but we do need to be a little rested since we have to drive 20 hours. lol

[longing2Batdisney]

just checking in haven't heard from you in a while...hope the summer is still being good to you and Madeline and DH (can't remember his name at the moment, sorry)...must be getting excited onl 2 months to go
:wave:

[chicagoshannon]

just checking in haven't heard from you in a while...hope the summer is still being good to you and Madeline and DH (can't remember his name at the moment, sorry)...must be getting excited onl 2 months to go
:wave:

Thanks! We've been so busy haven't had much time to think about our Disney trip.

BUT I think we just decided to do Mickey's Halloween party instead of Ohana on our anniversary. I'm so excited. I just have to order the tickets. I wish they werent' so expensive though. YIKES! If we were there earlier in the month we could get an AP discount. I hope she loves it. :)

So we'll get 3 MK days instead of 2. I've read that they let you in at 4pm with your party tickets. I hope that's true!

[crocko]

4pm for MNSSHP ticket sounds right to me.

Yay for more MK time!!

[longing2Batdisney]

:yay: on the Halloween Party!!!
are you going to dress up?? other PTR's some are talking about costumes;
sounds fun!!
Have a great day!! glad to hear from you
:wave:

[chicagoshannon]

Madeline will dress up. I"m not sure if Eric and I will. We'll see. We're not really costume people. Here is our new schedule:

Oct 18 arrive and dinner at Chef Mickey's
Oct 19 DHS- breakfast scheduled for Hollywood and Dine (or whatever it's called)
Oct 20- MNSSHP
Oct 21- Magic Kingdom- breakfast scheduled for Crystal Palace might need to cancel
Oct 22- AK breakfast scheduled for Tusker house
Oct 23- our anniversary... off day up in the air now. :)
Oct 24 Magic Kingdom- have Plaza ADR

I decided to go with the pary on Tuesday because the tickets were cheaper and figured that hopefully it wouldn't be as busy as a Friday night. :)

[longing2Batdisney]

sounds like a well planned trip! are ya'll skipping Epcot or just havent decided yet?
Have a great day!
:wave:

[leamom2princesses]

Hi Shannon! :wave2: It's been a busy summer and I have had very little time on the boards. I think your plan looks great. Halloween is so fun when the kids are Madeline's age. Do you know what you might dress her up as?

[my2disneyboys]

Your plans sound GREAT! I read Tuesday was the best night for the party- lowest crowds!! You will have a great time :-) I cant wait to see pics.

[chicagoshannon]

sounds like a well planned trip! are ya'll skipping Epcot or just havent decided yet?
Have a great day!
:wave:

We might go on either DHS day or AK day. We haven't decided. I know Madeline wants to ride Nemo so we'll see.

Hi Shannon! :wave2: It's been a busy summer and I have had very little time on the boards. I think your plan looks great. Halloween is so fun when the kids are Madeline's age. Do you know what you might dress her up as?
I have an Alice in Wonderland costume so maybe that.

Your plans sound GREAT! I read Tuesday was the best night for the party- lowest crowds!! You will have a great time :-) I cant wait to see pics.

Oh that's good to hear. :)

[My2Qtz0205]

Madeline will dress up. I"m not sure if Eric and I will. We'll see. We're not really costume people. Here is our new schedule:

Oct 18 arrive and dinner at Chef Mickey's
Oct 19 DHS- breakfast scheduled for Hollywood and Dine (or whatever it's called)
Oct 20- MNSSHP
Oct 21- Magic Kingdom- breakfast scheduled for Crystal Palace might need to cancel
Oct 22- AK breakfast scheduled for Tusker house
Oct 23- our anniversary... off day up in the air now. :)
Oct 24 Magic Kingdom- have Plaza ADR

I decided to go with the pary on Tuesday because the tickets were cheaper and figured that hopefully it wouldn't be as busy as a Friday night. :)


That is so funny you said that. I just saw someone's hot air balloon pics, and I'm thinking about going up the night of our anniversary, after our dinner at Cali Grill. I'm a little chicken about heights, though, but what an awesome experience that would be!

[chicagoshannon]

Ok, so a lot of you know that Madeline and I will be joining my parents in Feb. 2010 in Disney for another trip. :) We were thinking of going towards the end of the month BUT looked at prices today and decided on Feb 6-12. :) We will add on one of the Disney dining plans most likely (not sure which one yet).

We havent' decided on a hotel but our choices so far are:
Wilderness Lodge (1 room)
Coronado Springs (1 room)
Pop Century (2 rooms)

As much as I'd love to stay in the Wilderness Lodge or CS we're leaning slightly more towards POP. We would request connecting rooms king/dbl dbl.

Hopefully we'll have something booked by the end of this week. My mom needs to discuss things with my dad first. LOL

[longing2Batdisney]

:thumbsup2
can't wait to hear where ya'll decide to stay
we are between the POP and CSR ourselves!!! for next year
we still don't and won't have a date for a few months

wish we were able to go in the beginning of Feb/unable to because of school...

Have a great day!!
:wave:

[chicagoshannon]

:) Ok looks like the decision has been made. We WILL go Feb 6-12 and stay at POP in 2 rooms. We're going to request King- dbl/dble connecting rooms. I still have to talk to my mom about all the details. We will be flying also. :)

[my2disneyboys]

:) Ok looks like the decision has been made. We WILL go Feb 6-12 and stay at POP in 2 rooms. We're going to request King- dbl/dble connecting rooms. I still have to talk to my mom about all the details. We will be flying also. :)

That is great!!! :yay: I can't believe we will miss you by one day!!:sad1: We stayed at POP in 04 and it was a fun place to stay... Madeline will love it.

[crocko]

Awesome! And guess what....that trip is less than 6 months away!

[longing2Batdisney]

I can't wait to hear what you think about the POP!!! if I have to go that way I want all the input I can get!!!!

[chicagoshannon]

That is great!!! :yay: I can't believe we will miss you by one day!!:sad1: We stayed at POP in 04 and it was a fun place to stay... Madeline will love it.

you never know we may still go a week earlier. LOL We've been known to do that.

Awesome! And guess what....that trip is less than 6 months away!
yep and we still have our October trip to go on first. haha

I can't wait to hear what you think about the POP!!! if I have to go that way I want all the input I can get!!!!

I'll be sure to fill you in. We haven't booked anything yet. I'm really excited about having the dining plan too.

[crocko]

Awesome! And guess what....that trip is less than 6 months away!


yep and we still have our October trip to go on first. haha


Now, THAT'S the way to vacation. :woohoo:

[chicagoshannon]

Here is our updated touring plans *

Sunday Oct 18- arrive, dinner at Chef Mickey's
Monday Oct 19- DHS in the morning, Epcot in the afternoon
Tuesdsay Oct 20- Morning off, MNNSHP in the afternoon/evening
Wednesday Oct 21- Magic Kingdom- CP before park opening, LTT for dinner
Thursday Oct 22- Animal Kingdom, TH before park opening
Friday Oct 23- Off day, pool and DTD with the balloon ride
Saturday Oct 24- Magic Kingdom, Plaza for lunch
Sunday Oct 25- leave



* plans subject to change without notice ;)

[longing2Batdisney]

Great plan!!! sounds full and with relaxing times in between. great way to enjoy the WORLD!!

Have a great day!!
:wave:

[crocko]

Interesting note (since it kinda matches your schedule)

My favorite morning parks: Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom
My favorite evening parks: Epcot and Hollywood Studios

[chicagoshannon]

Great plan!!! sounds full and with relaxing times in between. great way to enjoy the WORLD!!

Have a great day!!
:wave:

thanks! You have a great day too!

Interesting note (since it kinda matches your schedule)

My favorite morning parks: Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom
My favorite evening parks: Epcot and Hollywood Studios

I like DHS in the evening too but ever since they reduced the F! showings it hasn't been worth it to me.


Ok, my mom booked our POP rooms for Feb 6-12. Now I need to have a meeting with my parents to discuss ADR's. I can make them in Oct when they go back to 6 months out. I have a feeling we'll be doing a lot of family style and buffets for dinners since Madeline is still free.

I'd love some suggestions!

[crocko]

We've got plenty of meals planned out with our 2 little ones along, so when we get back at the end of the month, I'll try to give you some good advice/suggestions based on our experiences. :thumbsup2

[chicagoshannon]

We've got plenty of meals planned out with our 2 little ones along, so when we get back at the end of the month, I'll try to give you some good advice/suggestions based on our experiences. :thumbsup2

Thanks! I need to go review your PTR again. My subscription have been acting weird. I'll to user CP and none will show up so I keep thinking nothing is new. lol

I think we've decided to do the QSDP and then add 2-3 sit down meals. Right now one of the front runners is LTT, but who knows what we'll end up with.

[longing2Batdisney]

Thanks! I need to go review your PTR again. My subscription have been acting weird. I'll to user CP and none will show up so I keep thinking nothing is new. lol

I think we've decided to do the QSDP and then add 2-3 sit down meals. Right now one of the front runners is LTT, but who knows what we'll end up with.
try the quick links button on the top of the page scroll to subscriptions
sometimes this will stay updated a little longer
:wave:

[chicagoshannon]

Hi all (and by all I mean Crocko and Connie, lol)

I made a countdown calendar today. It's just a small piece of poster board with post its to remove. We'll start it at 45 days, which is 2 days from now. YAY!

We got Madeline's costume for the Halloween party. MIl bought it. First she got her Ariel but that costume was imposible to get on so we returned it. Madeline then fell in love with Belle. She tried it on in the store and looks SO CUTE in it! Thankfully MIL bought it cause there was no way I was going to!

We've been busy lately trying to decide when to list our house. We were originally thinking early Feb. but then remembered that there is that tax credit going on. So we thought we may list in October. But then realized you have to CLOSE on the house by Dec 1st to get the credit. Since we have like 5 forclosures in our neighborhood (our neighborhood is 5 years old so these people got their mortgages in the height of bologna that was going on) we decided that ours probably wouldnt' sell by then. So, we are again waiting til Feb. lol In the meantime we found about 3 neighborhoods that are acceptable for us to move to when our house does sell. PHEW

Other then that I'm trying to get our homeschooling started. The first curriculum I had I wasn't pleased with. It's a nice one but a little too advanced for M. Our new curriculum just arrived yesterday so we'll start that probably next week. It's a bit below Madeline's level so we'll be able to combine about 2-3 weeks of work into 1 week. So combining lessons is my chore for the rest of the week.

As far as getting ready for Disney, all I need to do is throw our clothes in the suitcases since a lot of our disney "stuff" didn't get fully unpacked from May. :) We don't need to buy anything but sunscreen. YAY!

[lisalonglash]

Here is our updated touring plans *

Sunday Oct 18- arrive, dinner at Chef Mickey's
Monday Oct 19- DHS in the morning, Epcot in the afternoon
Tuesdsay Oct 20- Morning off, MNNSHP in the afternoon/evening
Wednesday Oct 21- Magic Kingdom- CP before park opening, LTT for dinner
Thursday Oct 22- Animal Kingdom, TH before park opening
Friday Oct 23- Off day, pool and DTD with the balloon ride
Saturday Oct 24- Magic Kingdom, Plaza for lunch
Sunday Oct 25- leave
* plans subject to change without notice ;)

Your plans look great! Can't wait to go to CP before park opening - sounds wonderful! :goodvibes

:) Ok looks like the decision has been made. We WILL go Feb 6-12 and stay at POP in 2 rooms. We're going to request King- dbl/dble connecting rooms. I still have to talk to my mom about all the details. We will be flying also. :)

Yahooty!!!! Something else to look forward to :banana:

Hi all (and by all I mean Crocko and Connie, lol)

I made a countdown calendar today. It's just a small piece of poster board with post its to remove. We'll start it at 45 days, which is 2 days from now. YAY!

We got Madeline's costume for the Halloween party. MIl bought it. First she got her Ariel but that costume was imposible to get on so we returned it. Madeline then fell in love with Belle. She tried it on in the store and looks SO CUTE in it! Thankfully MIL bought it cause there was no way I was going to!

We've been busy lately trying to decide when to list our house. We were originally thinking early Feb. but then remembered that there is that tax credit going on. So we thought we may list in October. But then realized you have to CLOSE on the house by Dec 1st to get the credit. Since we have like 5 forclosures in our neighborhood (our neighborhood is 5 years old so these people got their mortgages in the height of bologna that was going on) we decided that ours probably wouldnt' sell by then. So, we are again waiting til Feb. lol In the meantime we found about 3 neighborhoods that are acceptable for us to move to when our house does sell. PHEW

Other then that I'm trying to get our homeschooling started. The first curriculum I had I wasn't pleased with. It's a nice one but a little too advanced for M. Our new curriculum just arrived yesterday so we'll start that probably next week. It's a bit below Madeline's level so we'll be able to combine about 2-3 weeks of work into 1 week. So combining lessons is my chore for the rest of the week.

As far as getting ready for Disney, all I need to do is throw our clothes in the suitcases since a lot of our disney "stuff" didn't get fully unpacked from May. :) We don't need to buy anything but sunscreen. YAY!

Hey! :guilty: I'm here!!! Can't wait to see a picture of Madeline in her Belle costume princess: I'm glad you got your house-selling decision in order! Uncertainty is no good lol I hope she (and you) enjoys the new curriculum :thumbsup2 Wow! I wish I didn't have to buy anything but sunscreen! You rock! :worship:

[longing2Batdisney]

Hi! :wave2: Shannon!

I'm sure Madeline is gorgeous as "Belle". We still have not decided what Ashton will be (but we will not be in Disney :( so we have a little more time).
Great decision on the house! It must be so fun to look at new houses; every once in a blue moon I tell Danny we need to move on after Dayne graduates. But, I don't think we are going anywhere (Dayne told us the other day he plans to buy a new house trailer and put it on the last acre of the five we are one [we are one acre wide-5 deep] when he graduates :laughing:--he does not have a job and he plans to go to some type of school next year)!

So, which curriculum did you decide on and let me know if you like it (in about a month)
I have been putting my own thing together for Ashton & Chloe w/workbooks I have picked up here and there and the web!

Have a great one!
Connie :wave2:

[crocko]

Good luck on house-selling when the time comes. I know that can be a very stressful time, so hope it goes very well for you.

[chicagoshannon]

THANKS guys. It's being listed next Thursday. The city I'm in has so many houses for sale. The city we're moving to not so much. This is not going to be fun but we need to do it.

Connie- I have both Horizons and Hands on homeschooling. Horizons is meant for 4 year olds so was a bit over Madeline's head. I got the 2 yr Hands on Homeschooling and it's a bit simple for her. So I've been combining 2 or 3 days into one and we'll get done with it by Christmas. Then I'll start on the Horizons curriculum, but cutting some stuff out of it. I'm pretty sure Madeline will be ready for it by then.

I'm thinking about trying some unit studies but will probably hold off until next year. We've got too much going on and putting together the unit studies seems like a lot more work then I have time for at the moment.

I need to talk with my parents about the restuarants we want for our trip in Feb. It's almost time to make those ADR's. I'm pretty sure we're going to go with the quick service but throw some sit downs in there too.

[longing2Batdisney]

I've decided to build my own curriculum for now. I have been visiting our local classworks store and hobby store. Our next project will be glue and cotton balls, finger paint, and shaving cream (waiting for it to cool off so we can move to the patio). at the moment we are enjoying colors and counting with frogs that you string on a string or group into groups. It is funny how girls are better at some things and vise a versa for boys! after Christmas I thought of checking into Horizons. Haven't heard of Hands on HS.

ADR'S: I agree a few would be nice. If we do not do the DDP next year we have decided we will def. have two breakfast and two dinners.

much luck on the house sell and purchase!!!

great to hear from you! later :wave2:

[longing2Batdisney]

Good Morning! Shannon
thank you for viisting...noticed you ticker while there!
less than a month for you anniversary trip...how exciting :yay:
Happy planning :upsidedow
:wave2:

[chicagoshannon]

Thanks Connie! I need to be better at visiting. I'm waiting fro Crocko to get back so I can see how his trip went!

I think I'll be switching back to Horizons very soon. The Hands on Homeschooling is just made by a mom so I'm sure you can do just as good if not better. It's VERY easy for Madeline. Too easy really. Like today we'll be doing the whole week in one day. lol I got the Trend tracing books and they're great! Madeline loves using them. I also have some Kumon books that Madeline LOVES and would do the whole book in one setting if I let her. lol I'm not entirely sure if we'll be doing homeschooling once she hits kindy or not. I'm afraid that "I'll" miss the interaction with the other moms from church. A lot of them send their kids to our Christian school. We'll just have to wait and see.

Back to disney ;)

We have 19 days until we leave. We've decided to split our first day in the parks between MGM and Epcot. I want to try the cheese platter at F&W and Madeline really wants to ride Nemo. Looks like Living with the Land will be open by then too.

We're finalizing our plans for February at the moment also. Really hoping for a 40% AP discount for our dates.

I just noticed that Crystal Palace will be closed during our Feb trip so maybe we'll have to keep that ADR this time. We still haven't decided which ones to keep and which to ditch. lol

We plan to leave at 4am on the 17th and drive most of the way- probably stopping around 8 or 9. That way we can sleep in the next day and only drive about 3-4 hours or so. We'll see how it goes. We're hoping to enjoy our resort a bit that first day. :)

[longing2Batdisney]

Hey! Shannon
great plan for the first leg of the journey!
Cp is suppose to close for refurb; but, it is rumored that LTT will reopen for breakfast w/characters during the refurb!
If (and that is a great big IF) we go in Feb we will be leaving the day after ya'll get there! our trip would be jan 31 - Feb 7! something to that effect! Like I said on my post I know where the money for the trip is coming from; just don't have the $200 yet for the deposit! :confused3

for the time being I will continue to develop my own circ. for the little ones! Danny does not want me to homeschool again. So, I'm sure Ashton will be going to the local parachoial school/I'm not interested in the local public (it is a good school-but the NAACP it trying to redistrict and they want to bus the kids all over the place to even out the numbers; NO ONE FROM THE AREA is interested in this plan--so I'm afraid it goes into effect once Ashton gets settled into school--I do not want him going to one school only to load another bus for another school :confused3 ).

have a great day!
:wave2: Connie

[crocko]

Thanks Connie! I need to be better at visiting. I'm waiting fro Crocko to get back so I can see how his trip went!

We're back!

Check the link in my signature.
Will try to get updates going as soon as possible.

[chicagoshannon]

Hey! Shannon
great plan for the first leg of the journey!
Cp is suppose to close for refurb; but, it is rumored that LTT will reopen for breakfast w/characters during the refurb!
If (and that is a great big IF) we go in Feb we will be leaving the day after ya'll get there! our trip would be jan 31 - Feb 7! something to that effect! Like I said on my post I know where the money for the trip is coming from; just don't have the $200 yet for the deposit! :confused3

for the time being I will continue to develop my own circ. for the little ones! Danny does not want me to homeschool again. So, I'm sure Ashton will be going to the local parachoial school/I'm not interested in the local public (it is a good school-but the NAACP it trying to redistrict and they want to bus the kids all over the place to even out the numbers; NO ONE FROM THE AREA is interested in this plan--so I'm afraid it goes into effect once Ashton gets settled into school--I do not want him going to one school only to load another bus for another school :confused3 ).

have a great day!
:wave2: Connie


I'm not interested in the public schools here either. I like having a bit more control over what my child gets taught. ;)

We're back!

Check the link in my signature.
Will try to get updates going as soon as possible.

Great! I'm going there now! Welcome home.

[chicagoshannon]

So, I think it's about time for our itinerary ;)

Sat Oct 17- leave 4am and drive til about 8 or so
Sun Oct 18- sleep in ( like 7am lol) enjoy a leasurely breakfast. We figure we'll have about 4 hours of driving this day depending on how the previous day turned out. When we arrive at our resort (Marriott Harbour Lake) we'll try to check in early and then enjoy the pool and mini golf.
5pm- Chef Mickey's

Mon Oct 19
8am- ADR for the playhouse Disney breakfast (still not sure if we're going to do this or not
9am- park opens and we'll head to TSMM ride and then grab fast passes
I will then take Madeline to the Little Mermaid while Eric goes to TOT and RnRR
10:30- eric will meet us at the Playhouse Disney show
11 ish- we'll go to Star Tours and the person not riding will play with Madeline inthe HISTK playground, then we'll switch
next up will be lunch
12:45 Beauty and the Beast show

if there is time before that show we'll ride Great Movie Ride or just explore a bit

After BATB I want to do One Man's Dream

We'll ride TSMM and then head out of the park around 3pm maybe

EPCOT will be next

things do to:
Nemo
Imagination
Spaceship Earth
Test Track
Countries on the right side
Maybe we'll get a chance to explore Innovations a little bit too

Tuesday 20th
Sleep in (if possible)
Hang out at the resort for a leisurely day
3pm ish we'll leave for MNSSHP-- need to find somewhere to eat this evening might just see what's available when we arrive at MK <gasp> ;)
--- we plan to get in line for the dwarves before 7pm, that is our one must do besides the parade and fireworks


the rest of the itinerary will come later. I have to go mow the lawn. We have a showing tomorrow!!

[longing2Batdisney]

sounds good so far...does Eric not mind riding alone...I asked Danny if we went w/o the kids would he be ok to ride the big rides alone! since I don't ride them anyway!
need to check to see when Star Tours if closing for refurb I think it is suppose to be soon (but not positive--when?!?)
hope your showing goes well tomorrow; maybe you'll get an offer :goodvibes:yay:

[GreatBiscuit]

Awesome start to the itinerary! Can't wait to see more! Hope the lawn goes well. I HATE mowing the lawn. Stinketh mucheth.

[crocko]

Sounds like good plans so far!

On Playhouse Disney....if she loves the characters, then do it....otherwise, it was our least favorite character meal of the 5 that we did on our trip.

[chicagoshannon]

sounds good so far...does Eric not mind riding alone...I asked Danny if we went w/o the kids would he be ok to ride the big rides alone! since I don't ride them anyway!
need to check to see when Star Tours if closing for refurb I think it is suppose to be soon (but not positive--when?!?)
hope your showing goes well tomorrow; maybe you'll get an offer :goodvibes:yay:

Eric doesn't mind riding alone. He even rode some rides alone on our honeymoon. ;) I like the rides with loops but HATE the giant hills and free falls. He cant' wait til Madeline is tall enough to go on them with him.

The people didn't show up for the showing. We had an open house yesterday and 1 person came. Our realtor says she has some "suggestions". We'll see what those are but if they have anything to do with the house itself she will be shot down since the house isn't the problem getting the people IN the house is (HER job!). Seriously she's going to end up with like $5K when our house sells and she's not getting people in (HER JOB). At this rate we could do better listing it ourselves!

Awesome start to the itinerary! Can't wait to see more! Hope the lawn goes well. I HATE mowing the lawn. Stinketh mucheth.

I don't mind mowing the lawn, gives me a break from entertaining Madeline.

Sounds like good plans so far!

On Playhouse Disney....if she loves the characters, then do it....otherwise, it was our least favorite character meal of the 5 that we did on our trip.

Well Madeline loves some of the characters but doesn't know who JoJo is and the Einsteins aren't her favorites. I'm thinking we'll skip it for sure, thanks.

[chicagoshannon]

Ok, where did we leave off?

Wed Oct 21 MK
We have an ADR for Crystal Palace at 8:10 I was going to cancel it but then saw that CP will be closed in Feb when we're there. We aren't planning to go back til M is 5 or 6 so she might be too old for Pooh at that time. So depending on what Eric says we may keep this one.

After breakfast (or right at rope drop) we'll head to Fantasy land. I think Madeline is most excited to ride the carousel. Luckily she hasnt' talked about Dumbo so we might be able to skip that. We're going to take our time.

We'll probably head to Toon Town after Fantasyland. WE didn't spend much time there in May. I want her to see Mickey and Minnie's houses before they take them away.

I guess our itinerary for MK is very loose this time. I want to just take our time and enjoy the scenery. I'm really hoping these 90 degree temps are gone by the time we get there!

We have a Liberty Tree Tavern ADR for dinner that we will probably cancel. I would love to ear here though. We'll see.

< I can't believe we're less then 2 weeks away and I still don't know for sure what ADR's we're going to keep>

I need to see if Spectro is playing this night. If it is we might stay, if not we'll probably head home around 7pm. I'm not sure if we'll be doing afternoon nap or not.


Thursday Oct 22 AK

Tusker house 8:00- this is Eric's favorite before park breakfast, meeting Donald doesn't hurt.

We plan to explore the park more this time. In May it was just way too hot! Hopefully we'll see the Jungle Parade. We'll do the Safari, Everest, and the dino dig playground. I think we'll skip Dinosaur this time. We did Nemo last time so maybe we'll catch Lion King this time. I doubt we'll be here the entire day.

Friday Oct 23- Our 5th anniversary
We have an ADR for Boma at 5 ish this day. Other then that the day is open. We'll hopefully relax by the pool or do some shopping.

Saturday Oct 24- MK

We plan on rope drop. We'll let Madeline pick what she wants to do today. We have a lunch ADR for the Plaza.

Sunday Oct 25- we'll leave the resort very early to head back home.


In other news we booked our plane tickets for our trip with grandma and grandpa this weekend. We decided on Southwest since luggage is included in the price. We'll leave Midway at 9:10 am on Feb 6th and leave Orlando at 5:55pm on the 12th. My mom has to call POP to let them know our flights for ME.


Here's a question for you plan travelors, do we need a car seat? I mean I don't see a point on the plane and do they even let you use them on ME? I know you can't on the regular busses.

[longing2Batdisney]

Hello! Shannon
great plans!!! Liberty Tree Tavern is suppose to add the character breakfast during the refurb of CP in Feb! so if you choose not to do LTT this go round maybe ya'll can add it next go round...the characters there in the past were Minnie, Goofy and friends.

How is the curb appeal on your house...when you read or watch shows about selling that is what they suggest to get people in!! so maybe some fall plants and a little color will help!!! Good luck!!!

other TR's I have read the where they fly I have not seen carseats...even on the MExpress so I really do not think you will need it.

Have a great day!
Happy planning!
:wave2: Connie

[chicagoshannon]

Connie- curb appeal is ok I think. It's a newer home- 5 years so the landscaping isn't all that mature but none of the houses around here have mature landscapping. We have a nice front porch wiht a little bench and big flower pots on each side of the garage with flowers in them. I'm still waiting for an email from our realtor.




I just cancelled some ADR's. Eric wants to do more then I thought. :) Here are our ADR's

Sunday Chef Mickey's 5:25 pm
Wednesday Crystal Palace 8:10am
Thursday Tusker House 8:10 am
Friday Ohana 5:05pm
Saturday The Plaza- lunch-- this one we're still in the air about.

so 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners, and a lunch. ;)

I'm debating now if I want to try autographs with Madeline this time or maybe start pressed pennies.

Is anyone else picking up Snow White tomorrow? We are and can't wait!

[my2disneyboys]

Sunday Chef Mickey's 5:25 pm :thumbsup2:thumbsup2:thumbsup2
Wednesday Crystal Palace 8:10am :thumbsup2:thumbsup2:thumbsup2
Thursday Tusker House 8:10 am :thumbsup2:thumbsup2
Friday Ohana 5:05pm :thumbsup2:thumbsup2:thumbsup2
Saturday The Plaza- lunch-- this one we're still in the air about.
:confused:

I LOVE LOVE LOVE CM, CP, TH and Ohana... Plaza I wasn't too crazy about. There are these ladies that come in and YELL and I found them so annoying... not to mention that Owen was asleep and they woke him up with their yelling and scared him! The service was REALLY good though and the food was pretty decent. (Milkshakes were so good) Did you consider Tony's for Lunch? If you sit outside you can watch the Move it Shake it parade and it is really yummy too!

[longing2Batdisney]

Shannon,
I like all your ADR's--I can't wait to hear your report on CM's dinner! I have heard so many mixed reviews that I was going to stay away from the buffets at dinner time.

11 days to go for some magic pixiedust:...how exciting its almost time to start the party:

[chicagoshannon]

Sunday Chef Mickey's 5:25 pm :thumbsup2:thumbsup2:thumbsup2
Wednesday Crystal Palace 8:10am :thumbsup2:thumbsup2:thumbsup2
Thursday Tusker House 8:10 am :thumbsup2:thumbsup2
Friday Ohana 5:05pm :thumbsup2:thumbsup2:thumbsup2
Saturday The Plaza- lunch-- this one we're still in the air about.
:confused:

I LOVE LOVE LOVE CM, CP, TH and Ohana... Plaza I wasn't too crazy about. There are these ladies that come in and YELL and I found them so annoying... not to mention that Owen was asleep and they woke him up with their yelling and scared him! The service was REALLY good though and the food was pretty decent. (Milkshakes were so good) Did you consider Tony's for Lunch? If you sit outside you can watch the Move it Shake it parade and it is really yummy too!

I chose the Plaza because it's one of the cheapest TS places. Tony's would be a good choice too. Maybe I'll see if they have any availability. Remember we're paying OOP for everything and this was supposed to be a cheap trip. :laughing:

Shannon,
I like all your ADR's--I can't wait to hear your report on CM's dinner! I have heard so many mixed reviews that I was going to stay away from the buffets at dinner time.

11 days to go for some magic pixiedust:...how exciting its almost time to start the party:

I hope we like CM's. I think it will be the most expensive place we eat (well Ohana might be more I'm not sure) We like buffet's cause Madeline is still free ;)

[lisalonglash]

Your ADRs look great! We loved Tusker House breakfast - nothing like being in the park when it's empty! :cool1: We had a lovely meal at the Plaza on our first trip - it's so pretty in there! As for CP, I doubt she'll be too old for Pooh next time - our 10yo and 7yo boys loved it (oh, and dh and I did too :laughing:).

[GreatBiscuit]

Still catching up, but great looking ADR's! The Plaza seems to be a love it, hate it type of place. I've never been so I can't say for sure what I think of it. I did just read a review of it on Princess V's TR. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33713321&postcount=161) . (That's a link to the update with the review.) I've never been so I can't adivse you either way. I will say that we loved Tony's when we ate there on our Honeymoon, but that was 12 years ago so I wouldn't bank on that. I can't wait to hear what you guys wind up going with.

[chicagoshannon]

Your ADRs look great! We loved Tusker House breakfast - nothing like being in the park when it's empty! :cool1: We had a lovely meal at the Plaza on our first trip - it's so pretty in there! As for CP, I doubt she'll be too old for Pooh next time - our 10yo and 7yo boys loved it (oh, and dh and I did too :laughing:).

Glad to hear you liked the Plaza. Eric loved Tusker House in May and I really enjoyed walking into the park when it was empty.

Still catching up, but great looking ADR's! The Plaza seems to be a love it, hate it type of place. I've never been so I can't say for sure what I think of it. I did just read a review of it on Princess V's TR. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33713321&postcount=161) . (That's a link to the update with the review.) I've never been so I can't adivse you either way. I will say that we loved Tony's when we ate there on our Honeymoon, but that was 12 years ago so I wouldn't bank on that. I can't wait to hear what you guys wind up going with.

I still haven't checked into Tony's. We may just end up doing counter service or bringing something.

We've been having realtor issues so I've been consumed with that the last couple of days. I think we have it straightened out now.



<<<<<< OPINIONS NEEDED>>>>>>>>>

We have 2 rooms booked at POP for our Feb trip. I'm thinking that maybe we should just get 1 room at a deluxe resort. If you guys had a choice 2 rooms at POP or 1 room at say AKL or WL or maybe even Poly, what would you do? Remember the trip is me and Madeline and my parents.

[my2disneyboys]

Glad to hear you liked the Plaza. Eric loved Tusker House in May and I really enjoyed walking into the park when it was empty.



I still haven't checked into Tony's. We may just end up doing counter service or bringing something.

We've been having realtor issues so I've been consumed with that the last couple of days. I think we have it straightened out now.



<<<<<< OPINIONS NEEDED>>>>>>>>>

We have 2 rooms booked at POP for our Feb trip. I'm thinking that maybe we should just get 1 room at a deluxe resort. If you guys had a choice 2 rooms at POP or 1 room at say AKL or WL or maybe even Poly, what would you do? Remember the trip is me and Madeline and my parents.

I would go for splitting a room at a deluxe!! Especially because it is just you and Madeline and your parents. The rooms at the Poly and CR (Not sure about the other Deluxes) have the 2 queen beds AND the day bed- so more than enough room. The rooms are quite large and then you would be at a Deluxe and get all that the resort offers!!

[longing2Batdisney]

Shannon, I agree w/Nikki! But, only if sharing a room is not a bad idea! The only downfall would be one bathroom...but other than that is should be plenty of room! My dream resort is AKL! I just think Ashton would love it there; and I think I would love the Poly or GF!

But, there is nothing wrong with the POP for TWO bathrooms!!

JMHO!!! Happy planning!
:wave2:

[chicagoshannon]

Thanks everyone! Now I just need to hope a good AP discount comes out. I'm going nuts. They've released PIN codes for April through June (I got one) but nothing for Feb yet. I would LOVE the Poly just because it has the monorail.

So here's comes my vent for the day. We had a realtor tour today. THey gave the house a 7. I guess that's not so bad. They suggest reducing the price at least another 10 grand becuase "we're competing with short sales and forclosures" Yeah we are but we're NOT one! I need to talk to Eric but I'm leaning to just pulling it off the market at the end of October. We were trying to take advantage of the last minute $8,000 credit people and if we dont' have an offer by the end of October then that credit won't help.

I wish Eric's company would pay for the move. lol

[chicagoshannon]

Ok I think we're going to switch to the Wilderness Lodge. AAA discount is 20% we think (it is at POP so I'm assuming it will be for WL also) It will only be $300 more to stay there then POP for the week. (1 room vs. 2). IF a 40% AP discount comes out we will hopefully switch to the Poly! It would be so convenient to be on the monorail.

9 days til we leave. I think I might start packing soon. A friend made some shirts for Madeline. We tried them on last night so here are some pictures:

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_5890.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_5893.jpg
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/chicagoshannon/DSC_5895.jpg

I think she did an AWESOME job! Thanks Jen!

[longing2Batdisney]

I hope things work out with the house!!!maybe instead of offering a discount on the price maybe pay the closing for the new owners to be! that helped up when we bought our first house! it wasn't much money but it really helped us with the deposit and insurance we had to come up with; and it is an incentive...

:yay: to WL! and crossing fingers for the Poly...but, WL is close to being on the monorail just need to hop a boat first!

I LOVE THE SHIRTS!!! I SO WANT TO LEARN TO DO THAT!! I Keep scanning the disboards in the creative section!!! I started looking at the iron ons but I would really love to teach myself to sew like that!! GREAT JOB!!!

have a great day!!
:wave2:

[chicagoshannon]

I hope things work out with the house!!!maybe instead of offering a discount on the price maybe pay the closing for the new owners to be! that helped up when we bought our first house! it wasn't much money but it really helped us with the deposit and insurance we had to come up with; and it is an incentive...

:yay: to WL! and crossing fingers for the Poly...but, WL is close to being on the monorail just need to hop a boat first!

I LOVE THE SHIRTS!!! I SO WANT TO LEARN TO DO THAT!! I Keep scanning the disboards in the creative section!!! I started looking at the iron ons but I would really love to teach myself to sew like that!! GREAT JOB!!!

have a great day!!
:wave2:


She did do a great job didn't she? I'm hoping they still fit Madeline in Feb. too. My mom still needs to call and switch our ressies. I'm going to call her now and remind her. :)


We have less then 7 days til we leave. At this time next week we'll be more then half way to Kentucky. We'll probably be stopping for Breakfast about now. I need to clean out the car today and get to packing. :)

Still no house showings. I just can't believe how many short sales and forclosures there are in this area. It makes me really angry.

[longing2Batdisney]

7 days!!!! I'm getting so excited for ya'll!!!!
I bet Madeline is getting soooo excited and with her new cute clothes!!!
just about ready to let the :dancer: out to start the party:

have fun packing and cleaning...I hate to clean but when you are doing it with a goal such as Disney in view...it all of a sudden becomes part of the excitement!!! :cheer2::cheer2::cheer2:

Happy packing!!!
:wave2:
Connie

[chicagoshannon]

Thanks Connie. It doesnt' look like I"ll be getting any packing done today. We decided to buy a new tv so we're researching that right now. LOL Our current TV has a light bulb (DLP) that needs to be replaced about every year. The light bulb is about $300. Last year we said that was the last time we were going to buy a light bulb for it. The last couple of months the light bulb replacement light has been on and we've been debating just getting another light bulb because of the move.

Anyway today we just said we're going to go ahead and get the new tv.

Also we are now booked in a standard view room at the Wilderness Lodge for Feb. If we get a better discount we'll either switch to Courtyard view or to the Poly. :)

[chicagoshannon]

Ok so I did some packing today. It's so hard to decide what to bring for Madeline. She has so many cute things. I just need to add the underwear at the end of the week.

I also need to buy some toothpaste, shampoo, and sunscreen. I hope they still have sunscreen at the store.

I decided to bring both Madeline's Belle costume and her Alice costume. Alice is shorter thus would be cooler so we'll see how the weather is. I'd feel really bad if M didn't wear Belle though cause MIL paid full price for that one.

Oh and i"m sick. I hope I'm better by Friday!



In February news, I think we've decided to go with the regular dining plan. Now I need to come up with 6 table service restaurants to eat at. I'm currently thinking:
Chef Mickey's
Liberty Tree Tavern
Whispering Canyon Cafe
Garden Grill

I need 2 more. I am trying to stay with family style or buffet so Madeline can eat but I think we'll be pretty sick of buffet if that's all we eat for 6 days. So I could use some good idea's for table service dinners. :)

[chicagoshannon]

ok just looked at the 10 day. I'm VERY happy.

Sun- 79 and sunny
Mon- 79 and sunny
Tue- 85 and sunny

SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO much better then May!

[longing2Batdisney]

I'm so happy the weather is suppose to be beautiful this go round!! :yay:
good job on the packing!!! just six days to go how can you stand it!!!
:mickeyjum :mickeyjum :mickeyjum

Happy packing!!!

[chicagoshannon]

We're down to 4 days!!!

Latest weather is
Sun- 76
Mon- 77
Tue- 84 40% chance of scattered thunderstorms
Wed 86 40% chance of scattered thunderstorms
Thu 84 and sunny.

I just hope it doesn't rain on Tuesday night cause that's MNSSHP but if it does maybe the crowds will be lighter.

I'm finally starting to feel better. that's good cause I need to get the house cleaned. Our realtor is going to have an open house while we're gone so can't leave the place a mess ;)

[crocko]

yay! You're trip is almost here!

That weather sounds very nice......as for rain, our 10-day had 40% T-storms for everyday of the trip and it only rained hard once for about 30 minutes to an hour.

[longing2Batdisney]

Hi! Shannon
see you changed your siggie countdown:thumbsup2 and your aviatar caption!!

hopefully the disney magic will be extended to your open house while you are gone pixiedust:

can't believe you are already just four days out :cheer2:
seems like you just started this PTR!

:dancer: :dancer: :dancer: let the party: begin I bet M is getting soooo excited :mickeyjum

:wave2:

[chicagoshannon]

yay! You're trip is almost here!

That weather sounds very nice......as for rain, our 10-day had 40% T-storms for everyday of the trip and it only rained hard once for about 30 minutes to an hour.

that's good to hear. I don't mind rain so much, just don't want it to rain on our MNSSHP night. :)

Hi! Shannon
see you changed your siggie countdown:thumbsup2 and your aviatar caption!!

hopefully the disney magic will be extended to your open house while you are gone pixiedust:

can't believe you are already just four days out :cheer2:
seems like you just started this PTR!

:dancer: :dancer: :dancer: let the party: begin I bet M is getting soooo excited :mickeyjum

:wave2:

I did change it. Although I don't see the WL one at the moment. :confused3


Madeline is learning subtraction and how to count backwards with our countdown calendar. :) She's also learning states by learning the route we'll be driving. ;) Makes me feel good typing that out cause I've been slacking on the school lately.


So we have a slight change to our touring strategy for Tuesday. We're planning on getting to the MK at 4pm for MNSSHP. Instead of immediately going to get a ride or 2 in we're going to make a stop at the Barber Shop and check into getting Madeline her first haircut. She needs it done but I just don't know if I'm ready. Her hair is SO long though and it really needs to get done.

[longing2Batdisney]

I see your WL ticker...

that will be so exciting to have her hair trimmed and shaped up at the World!!! great idea!!! sounds like a good idea on tuesday that should help to prevent wearing down to quickly!!

[chicagoshannon]

Good morning! 3 more days! Today I'm getting a hair cut and we're going to the inlaws for lunch. The day should go by quickly. Eric is home sick, but i'm feeling much better. I think he's a day or 2 behind so he should be just fine by Saturday. :)

Eric has succeeded in getting Madeline obsessed with Star Wars. I never in a million years thought my 2.5 year old GIRL would be obsessed with it. Oh well, I guess it gives me a break from watching cartoons.

[my2disneyboys]

I hope you and Erik have a wonderful Anniversary and that Madeline enjoys her trip to Disney!! Sounds like you will be having a wonderful trip... I can't wait to hear all about it. Myles had his first haircut at Disney... it was really sweet.

[chicagoshannon]

Nickie- did you see that there will for sure be characters at Liberty Tree tavern during our trips? I'm excited because LTT was one restaurant my mom wanted to eat at for dinner so we'll get characters too. I just hope we can get a table! I'm not looking forward to making ADR's this time. It's going to take forever since everyone will be doing them the same day! I just hope the average person doesn't know about the window opening back up to 180 days.


I got my hair cut yesterday. It's shorter then I was thinking but oh well, it will grow. I would have liked it an inch or 2 longer.

We have a busy day today so hopefully it will go quickly. 2 days til we leave! Tomorrow will be laundry and cleaning the house day. yuck!

[leamom2princesses]

Hi Shannon! Just stopping by to wish you a magical trip. I hope it's filled with tons of pixie dust!pixiedust:

[longing2Batdisney]

Shannon!!!
look what I just found!!!
just learned of a new discount for Disney Rewards Visa cardholders: get a 40% discount at most Walt Disney World resort hotels, valid most nights 1/1/10-2/11/10.
and
Annual Passholder rates are now available at Walt Disney World resorts
for stays through June 12, 2010!

[chicagoshannon]

Hi Shannon! Just stopping by to wish you a magical trip. I hope it's filled with tons of pixie dust!pixiedust:

Thanks!

Shannon!!!
look what I just found!!!
just learned of a new discount for Disney Rewards Visa cardholders: get a 40% discount at most Walt Disney World resort hotels, valid most nights 1/1/10-2/11/10.
and
Annual Passholder rates are now available at Walt Disney World resorts
for stays through June 12, 2010!

Thanks! I saw the Visa discount last night and when I called my mom this morning she said she got an AP discount email. I was like CALL! I told her to upgrade us to Courtyard view at the WL. Hopefully she'll call soon. She doesn't quite understand the importance of calling right away. lol:scared1:


also, TOMORROW we leave at 4am! I'm so excited. I need to finish up the laundry, pack and clean the house so I'll be busy. Too bad I don't feel like doing any of it.

[crocko]

Tomorrow's the day!!

Woohoo!!! Hope you have a great trip...sounds like the weather should be fairly good overall. Look forward to your TR upon return. :thumbsup2

[longing2Batdisney]

Hello! Shannon!!
I just let some friends of mine know that you, Eric, and Madeline!! will be :drive: :car: in the next few days for a visit of pixiedust: and Halloween fun! :hmghost:

So, my friends wanted to send you a very excited send off :darth: :ewok: :chewy:
:tinker: :donald: :dumbo: :stitch: :tigger::goofy: :mickeyjum


So, we all say let the party: begin and do a lot of dancing on the way
:dancer: :dancer: :dancer:

Ya'll have a magical time and drive safe!!!!
:wave2: Connie & Ashton

[chicagoshannon]

Thanks Connie, Ashton, and Crocko! We're very excited to go.

We decided that if Madeline wakes up anytime after about 2am, we'll just leave. :)


My mom tried to upgrade us to courtyard view at WL but there was nothing available at the 40% discount. Kind of crappy since it was less then 24 hours after they released the discounts. She upgraded us to Wood View at least. We'll just keep calling in case someone cancels.

[chicagoshannon]

Thanks Connie, Ashton, and Crocko! We're very excited to go.

We decided that if Madeline wakes up anytime after about 2am, we'll just leave. :)


My mom tried to upgrade us to courtyard view at WL but there was nothing available at the 40% discount. Kind of crappy since it was less then 24 hours after they released the discounts. She upgraded us to Wood View at least. We'll just keep calling in case someone cancels.

[chicagoshannon]

Hi everyone. We're here and this resort is AMAZING! I'm so glad we decided to stay here, Marriot Harbour Lakes. We're not even sure we want to leave the resort.

We're off to Chef Mickey's now. Madeline decided she wanted to wear her Alice in Wonderland dress so we're going with that. The weather is cool but it's sunny and will warm up starting tomorrow.

I have a perminant smile on my face today!!

[longing2Batdisney]

So, happy to hear the resort is AWESOME!!
Have a magical time (I know you will!!)
:wave2:

[chicagoshannon]

Hi everyone. We're home. I'll probably start the TR tomorrow. I seem to have picked up some sort of stomach bug.

I'll put a link on this PTR with the TR but will keep this open for PTR details for our Feb. trip. Tomorrow is ADR day I guess.

[longing2Batdisney]

I was looking to see if you were back today!!!:rotfl:

Sorry to hear you picked up a bug...seems alot of people are picking up the flu or something when they visit Disney lately?!?

waiting when you are ready...popcorn:: I hope you are feeling better and how did the open house go while ya'll were away?!?

:wave2:[/SIZE]

[chicagoshannon]

OK just talked with my parents and we're going to try for: LTT dinner, 1900 Park Fare breakfast, and WCC dinner. I still have to decide on which days. I better get on that!

[chicagoshannon]

ok this is just to keep me on track. I'll try for:

WCC 2/6 at 5ish
1900 Park Fare 2/7 at 8:30am
LTT 2/10 5ish

We'll see what I get. I dont' think those are highly saught after ADR's but I'm a little worried about LTT since there will be no CP and characters will be added to LTT

[chicagoshannon]

I started the TR. Here's the link
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=34090348#post34090348

[chicagoshannon]

OK I got through for dining! I got

WCC 2/6 5:10pm
1900 PF 2/7 8:30am
LTT 2/10 5pm

[longing2Batdisney]

that is great you got exactly what you wanted!! :yay:
so your trip is coming together,now
I'm so jealous--you just came back from Disney and planning another go round already
pixiedust:
:wave2:
Happy planning!!