Heigh Ho! Heigh Ho! It's Off to Celebrate We Go!--New TR UPDATE PG 44!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[MegansMom]

Well, it's FINALLY OFFICIAL!!!!!! :cool1::yay::dance3::woohoo::worship:

This trip that has been mused about, thought upon, planned---and then cancelled TWICE---and dreamed of for the past year is FINALLY OFFICIAL!!!!!

PHEW!!!!! I needed to get that out because I have been waiting SO long to say it!!!!! :goodvibes:goodvibes But yes, there is a reservation, a confirmation number, an ADR date, and most importantly, a PTR with a TITLE---so I KNOW it is finally official!!!! (Yeah me!)


Coming Right Up: The reveal of the gang going on this journey and how it finally ALL came to be!!! STAY TUNED!


Table of Contents for Updates--linked right to posts!!!
WHO are YOU? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32188367&postcount=4)
Sit back, Relax, and ENJOY THE SHOW! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32198774&postcount=40)
And What Might WE be CELEBRATING??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32310153&postcount=102)
RESORTITIS!!!!!!!! I'm Going MAD!!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32312837&postcount=111)
The Recital Update!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32322430&postcount=131)
Park Plans and ADRs---YEAH BABY!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32342733&postcount=156)
Short and Sweet!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32384035&postcount=174)
ADRs are FINISHED......For NOW!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32403212&postcount=190)
And Now we WAIT!!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32447737&postcount=203)
An Apology of Sorts!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32516011&postcount=220)
What's a PTR without a FEW CHANGES????? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32590158&postcount=260)
Time for a Quickie..... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32648862&postcount=291)
Peacocks and Boutiques!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32688595&postcount=320)
EPCOT---Musts, Loves, and DON'Ts!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32739190&postcount=341)
I have a little surprise!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32739942&postcount=343)
Animal Kingdom---Musts, Loves, and DON'TS!!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32838781&postcount=365)
A Sweet, Little Surprise!!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32861147&postcount=378)
Hollywood Studios---Musts, Loves, and DON'TS!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32932510&postcount=407)
Is there a cure for Resortitis?????? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33001963&postcount=421)
It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year---Part One! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33234954&postcount=472)
It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year---Part Two! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33248272&postcount=488)
Magic Kingdom---Musts, Loves, and DON'TS!!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33355775&postcount=513)
You want it? You Got it! The "Oh my God, OCD Packing List!" (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33451823&postcount=542)

TR Updates

Half the Fun is Getting There...........Right?!?!?!?!? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33979993&postcount=623)
Let's Start This Party Off RIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34009548&postcount=645)
Would We Have a Grim Megan or a Grinning Megan????? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34127608&postcount=658)

[Lady Lallie]

WOO HOO!

I am so excited for you all! I can't wait to hear all the details. :banana:

[MinnieNurse]

Followed you over from LL's report. Cant wait to hear more. My Dad is from Kentucky and I visited there every summer as a child. I have not been there in years. I use to love those trips every summer. We will be there the month before you.

[MegansMom]

Well, that was a very short start, but at least it was something!

I am sure many of you are sitting on the edge of your seats, salivating for the next juicy morsel and detail of the trip.....no, no, no.....THE CELEBRATION of what is to come. So let us get this party started off right.......with some introductions!!!!!

Celebrating down at Mickey's House will be Me (Jen---aka MegansMom), my DH (Tom---aka "Honey" and "Daddy") and my own personal princess (Megan---aka "Princess," "Squirt," "Megs"---seriously this list could go on forever!) Here we are!!!

Me and Megs

http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm19/megansmom1/055.jpg

For those of you who don't know me, I am a stay-at-home Mom to my one beautiful daughter Megan. I used to teach High School English, but once Megan blessed our world, I stayed home to care for her and my family. I love scrapbooking and planning for our Disney trips, which we have been fortunate to take each year since 2006.

Tom and Megs
http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm19/megansmom1/037.jpg

Tom is a VERY hardworking Corporate Accountant, and looks forward to taking his vacation every year. He has really enjoyed all our past WDW trips, and is looking forward to having another trip with just "his girls" this year!



And our Megs


http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm19/megansmom1/034.jpg

She is our one and only, and truly the light of our lives! She is funny, sweet, and becoming so much smarter than her Mommy with each passing day!


So, now you know who we are.......in the next update, I will fill you in on a little more about us and all the history of this trip.....it is quite a lengthy one!!!! "Y'all come back now, you hear!!!!"

[Lady Lallie]

Megs is just so cute. So cute! :cutie:

[Diamondintheruff]

High School English. Wow, that takes a special person. I'm a kindergarten teacher myself. I love them all bright eyed, fresh to the education system and most importantly shorter than me! Kuddo's to you for being able to work with teens.

So where are you staying? What are you planning? Inquiring minds want to know.

[2xcited2sleep]

Hurrah! The trip came true!! Can't wait to hear about the details. I think you mentioned resort stress? You must spill soon! You've kept us in the dark long enough. ;) But seriously, so very glad that everything worked out and you're able to make the trip. Can't wait to plan with you! :)

[kschafer]

Reporting for roll call!

[TarzansKat]

Hot diggity dog! Now I have to go and compare your ticker to mine and see if I can figure out if our dates overlap!!!! :lmao:

[maroo]

Hello! Followed you over from TK's TR.

I, too, want to compare tickers! :thumbsup2

[MRYPPNS]

Hi Jen! :woohoo:
I'm so happy to hear that your plans are finalized!!!!

[MegansMom]

WOO HOO!

I am so excited for you all! I can't wait to hear all the details. :banana:

I knew you would make it!!! :rotfl:Details are coming....I promise my dear!

Followed you over from LL's report. Cant wait to hear more. My Dad is from Kentucky and I visited there every summer as a child. I have not been there in years. I use to love those trips every summer. We will be there the month before you.

So glad you came a strolling on over here!!! More scoop is on the way....I promise!!! Which part of the state is your Dad from? I am a "Northerner," from one of the counties that borders Indiana and Ohio---right across from Cincy. So sorry to hear that we will be missing you by a month though! HAVE FUN!

Megs is just so cute. So cute! :cutie:

Yes, I concur. :lmao: BUT, I know that I am WAY too biased for words!!!!! I still wonder all the time how I made something so darn cute!

High School English. Wow, that takes a special person. I'm a kindergarten teacher myself. I love them all bright eyed, fresh to the education system and most importantly shorter than me! Kuddo's to you for being able to work with teens.

So where are you staying? What are you planning? Inquiring minds want to know.

Well, I have always considered myself "special," but I am not sure that is what made me a successful High School English teacher!!!! :laughing::rotfl: I'm sorry---very slap-happy right now because.......I'M GOING TO DISNEYWORLD!!!! :goodvibes I loved my Seniors, but I always felt the same way about Elementary teachers---don't know how you handle all those little kiddos some days! We are all gifted in our own little ways!!!

The details are coming......just you wait and see!!! BIG THINGS I TELL YOU!!!

Hurrah! The trip came true!! Can't wait to hear about the details. I think you mentioned resort stress? You must spill soon! You've kept us in the dark long enough. ;) But seriously, so very glad that everything worked out and you're able to make the trip. Can't wait to plan with you! :)

Thank you for sticking with me through all the suspense!!! There is resort stress....I will speak of this VERY soon!!! I am so excited to have peeps to plan with too!!! I'm so glad you are here!!!

Reporting for roll call!

Katie.....check!!!!! ;)

Hot diggity dog! Now I have to go and compare your ticker to mine and see if I can figure out if our dates overlap!!!! :lmao:

Hmmmmmm?!?!?!?!?!?!?! We will just have to see how close of a brush with greatness I may have!!! ;)

Hello! Followed you over from TK's TR.

I, too, want to compare tickers! :thumbsup2

I am SO glad you hopped on over!!! I always enjoy your commentary---can't wait to hear your comments on this one! Compare away my dear!!!


Thank You and Welcome to all those that have joined in on the fun so far!!! I know the details are thin right now, but trust me, everything will be revealed really soon!!!! I PROMISE!!!! BUT, here are some teasers to keep your mouths watering until the next update:

--There will be resort stress
--There will be COPIOUS amounts of ADRs to be made
--There will be MANY events to be celebrated
--THERE WILL BE LISTS!!!!! Heck, it would not be a PTR of mine without a million lists.....should I count this as list #1?????
--There will be a deluge of pictures of us from WDW past and present
--AND there may be changes....you just NEVER....KNOW!!!!

MORE COMING SOON----STAY TUNED!!!!!

[MegansMom]

Hi Jen! :woohoo:
I'm so happy to hear that your plans are finalized!!!!


Heidi---so glad you are here!!! How is that beautiful baby girl?!?!?!?!

[MRYPPNS]

Heidi---so glad you are here!!! How is that beautiful baby girl?!?!?!?!

Danica is wonderful. New pictures are posted Here (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32155353&postcount=97)

[MegansMom]

She is gorgeous!!!! I hope all is going well for you guys!

[MinnieNurse]

My Dad grew up in Cumberland. Not sure which side that is on, like I said I have not been since I was about 16. So almost 20 years now. My Dad still has 1 brother alive there so he goes about every 5 years.

[MegansMom]

My Dad grew up in Cumberland. Not sure which side that is on, like I said I have not been since I was about 16. So almost 20 years now. My Dad still has 1 brother alive there so he goes about every 5 years.

Cumberland is the bottom to my top of the state.....BUT it has beautiful lakes that I have gone boating on often with family throughout my life. A very pretty place to grow up I imagine!!!

[pooh'smate]

Yay!!!!!!!! You are going to Disney. I am so glad I am along ofr the ride. Looking forward to all of it!

[SwansLoveDisney]

Joining in!

Megan is adorable!

Can't wait to read all about your plans!

[Roxychica7]

Yay! So excited that your trip finally worked out! Still love Megs and her Minnie dress! Can't wait to hear about your resort, ADR's and everything else!! :thumbsup2

[jenjolt]

YAY for a PTR I'm so excited for your family MM!! I'm here for the ride and can't wait to hear more!!!! Bring on those lists!

[lmillercrew]

Jen!!!! You're back! I've seen you post on other threads, but I look forward to reading about your new plans and adventures!!! So good to see you and Megan again! (not really "see", but you know what I mean ;))

[IluvXU]

Page two in less than six hours... I am late!

[The Marsons]

I'm in and looking forward to reading more!
:woohoo:

[CRSNDSNY]

Subscribing! Found your link on Tim and Lesley's thread. :)

[ILuvCrush]

Hi MM!!
I'm here and accounted for!

popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::

Paula

[TarzansKat]

A brush with greatness, my goodness. :blush:

By comparing tickers it doesn't look hopeful unless you have a very LONG trip planned. Time will tell.

And your posts.

Which I anxiously await. popcorn::

[timandlesley]

I'm here :flower3: GREAT start, can't wait for more! popcorn::
Lesley

[julezdisney]

Shameful- I'm on page 2!! OTTV!

Bad gnomie am I!

HOWEVER, it's nice to have faces to the names now! I'm on board!

But uh... WHEN? WHERE? WILL WE MEET?! :laughing:

[MegansMom]

Yay!!!!!!!! You are going to Disney. I am so glad I am along ofr the ride. Looking forward to all of it!

WELCOME ABOARD!!! I am so glad you made it!

Joining in!

Megan is adorable!

Can't wait to read all about your plans!

Thanks for joining....here at our house, we TOTALLY agree about Megan's adorableness.....but then again, we are not the most neutral people out there now are we!??!?!?!! :rotfl:

Yay! So excited that your trip finally worked out! Still love Megs and her Minnie dress! Can't wait to hear about your resort, ADR's and everything else!! :thumbsup2

We are so excited too about the trip!!! I can't wait to tell you the tale about telling Miss Megan!!! It was SWEET! The Minnie Dress is actually getting a little short on her....AWWWW SO SAD....but that just means that Mommy is going to have to find a new one in her size! The details are on their way!

YAY for a PTR I'm so excited for your family MM!! I'm here for the ride and can't wait to hear more!!!! Bring on those lists!

I'm so glad you made it Jen!!! :banana: The lists will be coming soon.....you should see how I am beginning to compile them already!!!!!

Jen!!!! You're back! I've seen you post on other threads, but I look forward to reading about your new plans and adventures!!! So good to see you and Megan again! (not really "see", but you know what I mean ;))

HEY SWEET LADY!!!! I am SO glad you found me!!! I have been DYING to start this thing up for so long......I am so glad it finally became official!

Page two in less than six hours... I am late!

There is no such thing as lateness in PTR world!!! ;) I am so glad you found me! Jackie is going to be so upset when she gets back and sees how far along it is.....;)

I'm in and looking forward to reading more!
:woohoo:

Welcome to the fun!!! I am so glad you hopped over here!

Subscribing! Found your link on Tim and Lesley's thread. :)

YEAH!!! Welcome, welcome, WELCOME!!!! Thanks for hopping on over....I am so glad to have you!

Hi MM!!
I'm here and accounted for!

popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::

Paula

YEAH.....Now I can check Paula off of my list!!!! ;)

A brush with greatness, my goodness. :blush:

By comparing tickers it doesn't look hopeful unless you have a very LONG trip planned. Time will tell.

And your posts.

Which I anxiously await. popcorn::

You know I humbly bow to your Royal TR---ness.......I hope my little old attempt at a PTR/TR is worthy of your reading!!! ;):goodvibes All shall be revealed shortly.....can we keep the hope alive?!?!?!?!?!?!

I'm here :flower3: GREAT start, can't wait for more! popcorn::
Lesley

YEAH LESLEY!!!!! I am so glad you found me!!!! Thanks for the flower!! ;);) Here's a great big hug coming right back at you---:hug:

Shameful- I'm on page 2!! OTTV!

Bad gnomie am I!

HOWEVER, it's nice to have faces to the names now! I'm on board!

But uh... WHEN? WHERE? WILL WE MEET?! :laughing:

There is no shame....don't hang your head for one second!!! I am just so glad you are here---especially since our trips will overlap!!!!

[TarzansKat]

You know I humbly bow to your Royal TR---ness.......I hope my little old attempt at a PTR/TR is worthy of your reading!!! ;):goodvibes All shall be revealed shortly.....can we keep the hope alive?!?!?!?!?!?!

Oh, good lord, woman, I'm not that good.

I'm just a pirate:. ;)

Can't wait to read more!

[micandminforever]

I look forward to another great trip report:surfweb:. I enjoyed your last wonderful report and pictures. My DH and I also plan a trip to Disney World in Sept.

My husbands family reunion outside of Florence Ky. is in Aug., so we will be able to see your beautiful area this summer.

[MeMom]

Thanks for the invitation to read along. Since school starts in August, I will probably never get a September trip. October is the soonest we get a break. So, I'll be happy to see lots of pictures and read about much Disney fun in September!

[moparop]

Woo hoo!! I needed another trip report to read. Thanks for starting one for me Jen! I love reading about elem age students and their Disney experiences as we are just approaching that now. Looking forward to hearing all the details of the trip!

[lmillercrew]

Hi MM!!
I'm here and accounted for!

popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::

Paula
From the look of your tickers, you have a lot of Disney trips coming up!! Good for you Paula!

[Jennifer48]

Followed you over from LL's TR. Joining in on all this fun!! :goodvibes

[MegansMom]

Oh, good lord, woman, I'm not that good.

I'm just a pirate:. ;)

Can't wait to read more!

Um TK, yes....you....are!!!! More coming right up!!!

I look forward to another great trip report:surfweb:. I enjoyed your last wonderful report and pictures. My DH and I also plan a trip to Disney World in Sept.

My husbands family reunion outside of Florence Ky. is in Aug., so we will be able to see your beautiful area this summer.

I am so glad you came back!!!! I wonder if our September trips will overlap?!?!?!?!?! I can NOT believe the reunion is near Florence.......THAT IS WHERE I GREW UP!!!!! My parents STILL live in Florence!!!! I live right outside of it now in Hebron---the city the Cincinnati airport is in----yes, that is right....when you fly into Cincinnati, Ohio, you are actually landing in Hebron, Kentucky!!!! Messes people up ALL the time!!! WHAT A 'SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL!!!' :goodvibes

Thanks for the invitation to read along. Since school starts in August, I will probably never get a September trip. October is the soonest we get a break. So, I'll be happy to see lots of pictures and read about much Disney fun in September!

You are ALWAYS on the guest list for my PTRs.....I always need your expert MeMom advice!!! Please feel free to live vicariously through my September adventures, as I live through all your wonderful travels to see the Mouse!

Woo hoo!! I needed another trip report to read. Thanks for starting one for me Jen! I love reading about elem age students and their Disney experiences as we are just approaching that now. Looking forward to hearing all the details of the trip!

YEAH!!! I am so glad you jumped over here!!! Not only did I plan this PTR just so you would have something to read, I booked an entire trip to WDW just so said PTR could occur....it is the little things I do for my peeps, you know!?!?!?!?! :rotfl:

From the look of your tickers, you have a lot of Disney trips coming up!! Good for you Paula!

Paula is one lucky gal!!!

Followed you over from LL's TR. Joining in on all this fun!! :goodvibes

I am so glad you ventured over here!!! Another Jennifer to be a kindred spirit to!!! ;) WELCOME!

Okay gang----I'm off to go type up a BIG update!!! Get the popcorn ready!!! popcorn::

[pooh'smate]

popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::

[UGAFan0829]

Hi, Jen! I just wanted to stop in and say hello! I found my way here via timandlesley's report, so I hope you don't mind if I follow along. I'm very excited to hear all about your plans! My DH and I will also be in the World in September. (My Pre-TR link is in my siggie if you care to take a look.) It's always cool to see what others have planned who are going around the same time!

[MegansMom]

Well, I'm here to divulge some details.....FINALLY!!!!! :banana::yay::woohoo:

BUT FIRST.......you all need a little history of this trip to fully understand why I am so DARN excited it is FINALLY OFFICIAL!!!

It all started a year ago while we were in the world with my family for a Grand Gathering. It was a fabulous trip for all 10 of us......and even though we ALL were there together, there were splendid little moments when Tom, Megs, and I found ourselves alone---just the three of us! And in these moments of family bliss, I could see it....I could see it in Tom's eyes that he was yearning...yearning for another trip just the three of us...just him and his girls....just like our first one together in September 2006. AHHHHHHHH.....that TRIP!!! It was SO wonderful, SO magical, SO memorable that one night while playing 'The Newlywed Game' at a party at a friend's house, we both completely surprised each other when we said THAT was our favorite vacation ever....even beating out our marvelous, romantical, amazing Honeymoon!!!

Many of you already know about that wonderful trip, but for those of you just tuning in, I will just say that the six days we spent at WDW that year, were easily the best six days of our lives together so far. EVERYTHING was amazing....EVERYTHING was perfect!!! It was right before the kickoff of the Year of a Million Dreams, and even though it had not officially started, we received 6 dreams come true in that one trip alone!!! There is so much about that trip that was uber-emotional too. It was our first vacation JUST THE THREE OF US...just our little family unit...and it was SO special!!! It was right before Megs turned three---which was a PIVOTAL moment in her development. For those of you who don't know, I developed HELLP syndrome and almost died when I was 30 weeks pregnant, and they had to emergently deliver Megan almost 10 weeks prematurely. Born too small and too soon, Megan struggled to stay alive and thrive as a young baby. We dealt with long hospital stays, six months of being homebound once she came home, and many complications that affected her development, motor skills, and sensory processing. The first three years of her life were spent going from one doctor to the other, countless hospital visits, and too many hours of physical and occupational therapy to count. That trip was so significant because it marked a huge milestone for her and for us...her therapy has continued even through to today, but she had graduated from one level of treatment at that point. I know there were so many times during that trip that Tom and I were so over-emotional because in the backs of our minds, we knew that it could have just as easily never have happened---she could have easily not made it through all that she endured...but our little fighter did!!! For a child who suffers from being over-sensitive to almost every type of sensory input, we knew that she could have easily hated it...hated the overwhelming sensation of the crowds, the noises, the unusual smells, etc. BUT SHE DIDN'T!!!! We still don't understand, but this magical place is one of the ONLY places in the world where we have seen and experienced our normally very over-cautious daughter let go, relax, and enjoy every single second!!! IT is without a doubt, HER HAPPY PLACE!!! We were so relieved! We were so grateful for that first trip--for those precious moments of just the three of us! Here are just a few shots from that trip......

http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm19/megansmom1/fireworks.jpg

http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm19/megansmom1/glasses.jpg

http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm19/megansmom1/megsface.jpg

I don't have too many of these left in my web album, but that is just a little sampling---the top is a picture of Megs watching 'Wishes' for the first time, then Dad and Megs getting ready for Philharmagic for the first time, and finally her reaction seeing Mickey and Minnie for the first time........all priceless memories!!!

Okay, so you can see why Tom had that look of yearning...we wanted to taste a piece of that magic again. Yes, we had been on two trips since that trip--one in November 2007 with his parents and then the June 2008 trip with my family, but neither of those trips could compare. So shortly after returning from our June 2008 trip, questions would start popping up into our conversations from time to time about going back again just the three of us. All throughout the fall of 2008, we would examine times to go back..."What about Thanksgiving again? Maybe the second week in December???" AND we even got so far and SO close that one Saturday afternoon---armed with some type of discount (I think a fall Free Dining promo)---we even went so far as to call, to speak to a lovely Disney CM, to select days for a trip, to choose a resort (CSR) at which to stay, and as that lovely CM started totaling everything up and informing us that we would need to pay the balance in full that day because we were so close to our arrival date, that wonderful accountant hubby of mine panicked....and we cancelled it all out, and very unfortunately hung up the phone!!! :sad2: We had the money, but I think the reality of it all, the swiftness of our booking and decisions freaked him out a bit. He's an accountant, so naturally his calculating mind and his knowledge of the economy took over and shut down the impracticality of our spur of the moment trip idea. And it never got rebooked again.......the fall and winter passed, and no more talk of the trip.....until February or so. Then the doldrums of winter got us thinking of warmer things...exciting things...Disney things, and the talk was on again!!! This time though, the talk was ALL over the place...we can't vacation at all January through April due to his job, but then we started thinking about a May trip, or possibly a June trip, or maybe even a return in September!!! It was MADNESS!!! We would weigh out the pros and cons of each time of the year. And the 4/3 deal only complicated our decision-making abilities. AND THEN on top of that, we received a coveted 40% off PINCODE!!!!! BOTH OF US!!!! Our heads were spinning out of control.....my OCD planning gene had me creating spreadsheet after spreadsheet comparing everything---all the discounts (including a possible Free Dining offer in September), renting DVC points once again like we had for the previous three trips, and every possible scenario you could imagine!!! I was gathering all this info together for my Honey to analyze and dissect to come to a decision.......................and then.........................................NOTHI NG!!!! :scared1: The deadlines for all the discounts---even the pincode---came and went without a single reservation made.....:sad1: Things were getting stressful at Tom's work...he knew another round of layoffs were going to be happening, and even though he knew he would be safe from those layoffs, he was worried about how that might add to his workload and responsibilities. He also had heard rumors of pay cuts and loss of vacation time, so he was skeptical about making any significant plans for us. So, very regretfully, very quietly, I closed up my notebook, put away my spreadsheets, and decided that it just was NOT going to happen. Not this year. :sad2:

And then some time passed....the school year drew to a close for Megan and we got to celebrate her Preschool graduation!!! We also started talking about another dream of ours---selling our current home and building/buying our dream home. So I became quite busy with getting the house market-ready and beginning to look at new homes. This helped erase the sadness of NOT having a trip in the works.....quite honestly, it made me start to think that maybe we should forget about a September trip, and just focus on moving first---thinking that we could save the trip for once that all transpired......I know, shocking isn't it?!?!?!?!

And then, something happened......Tom came home from work one day and said that there was not going to be any adjustments made to his salary or benefits....that the layoffs were over, and he felt that he would be okay for a while, and that what he really needed after the long months of year-end close, was a really GREAT vacation!!! :eek::scared1::woohoo: He then said those wonderful words..."Let's get out your Disney Notebook and look at those figures again!" I was SO excited!!! :yay: I knew we couldn't use our pincode or the 4/3 deal, but we still had the promise of Free Dining or DVC......and he felt that even with everything else going on, we could definitely afford it! So the plotting began.....when would we go??? Where would we stay??? Would we do Free Dining or DVC this time?!?!?!?!?!?!?


I think I will pull a Ryan Seacrest and make you wait until "After the Break"---aka the next update!!!!!
































NAH....I'll just tell you NOW!!!! :banana::banana:

When would we go???

This actually took us quite a long time to decide---but I am not going to get into THAT long story!!! We knew we couldn't go the first 8 days of the month due to his responsibilities at work, and we also had to work around the 18th, 19th, and 20th because I am committed to being part of a Ladies' Renewal Weekend at my church. Our possible days were becoming VERY slim---our calendar looked like a jigsaw puzzle!!! But after much hard negotiating, we agreed to leave on September 20th in the afternoon after my retreat ends. We will be driving down once again for two reasons: to save a little cash for our moving plans, and because Tom's motion sickness really gets the best of him after air flights. We will drive most of the day and probably stop just shy of 3-4 hours from Disney. Then we will get up bright and early on the 21st, make the final leg of the drive, and check-in early at our resort. This brings us to when we would be leaving...it got a little tricky. Our precious Megan will be celebrating her 6th birthday on September 29th, and we were hoping to be able to be at WDW, but Tom needs to be back at work on the 30th, and we did NOT want to spend her birthday in the car! So we will be leaving at some point in the afternoon on the 28th...heading home to celebrate our Princess's birthday with family and friends here on her birthday! Giving us 8 days and seven nights of magical Disney fun!!! YEAH!

Where would we stay????

The all-too-important question at times, eh??? Let me just give you a little insight into all the behind-the-scenes action of deciding on a resort.

We started out looking into staying at our dream resort....WILDERNESS LODGE!!! Let's all say our collective "AAAAAHHHHHHS" right now!!! :) But then we became a bit nostalgic, probably due to our yearning to recreate the magic of our first trip......so then we decided we would rent DVC points again to stay at BWV---we loved that resort and our stay there, and thought why mess with perfection?????? Until I started seeing reviews and pictures of AKV, and my yearnings made me say in my best Liz Lemon from 30 Rock impression, "I want to go there!" It wasn't too hard to convince Tom because it would actually be cheaper---$$$$ is the key to that man's heart!!! So we were convinced..............for awhile. Then we started thinking that maybe it would be cheaper to book Free Dining at CSR (another favorite of ours), and hey, who doesn't want to eat for free?!?!?!?!?!??! So THAT was IT!!!! We would be booking Free Dining at CSR......DONE!!!!


NOT QUITE.......then Tom started to really analyze the numbers and decided that why not just stay at a value this time around???? We are hardly in our room, we really just want to go to be there, and the extra money we would save could go once again towards our new home. It was a hard decision to make---we have never stayed at a value, and I was concerned that it would be a hard transition for us---Tom and Megan don't do well on overly crowded buses for their own reasons. (Tom gets motion sickness and Megs gets overwhelmed by all the people). BUT, we thought why not just try it, and if it is TOO bad once we are there, maybe we could just switch to another resort then. I had done MUCH reviewing and discussing with DISers on here about the values, and decided Pop would be our best bet. So I go to make the call on Sunday, and wouldn't you know it, they are ALL BOOKED UP!!! :scared1: What to do?!!??!?!?! I quickly jumped to my back up value choice and requested a Toy Story room at ASMovies. AND THAT MY DEARS, is where we are staying...............for now.........I will warn you.........there has already been MUCH resort stress............I may be changing this..............I don't know........AAACCCCKKKKKK!!!!!

Would we do Free Dining or DVC???

I think you already know the answer to this mystery......FREE DINING BABY!!!!!! Tom is SO excited about eating for an entire week without having to pay for it----again the accountant in him speaking!!!! Oh HOW that man loves a bargain!!!!


So that is the scoop for now......a long and windy update, but hopefully it is enough to keep you full for a little bit........I have so much more to share with you already!!!! UP NEXT: Let me tell you all about ALL the CELEBRATIONS that will be going on when we are partying with the MOUSE!!!! Come back soon gang!!!

[MegansMom]

popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::

I think you might need all that popcorn to get through that lengthy update!!!!

Hi, Jen! I just wanted to stop in and say hello! I found my way here via timandlesley's report, so I hope you don't mind if I follow along. I'm very excited to hear all about your plans! My DH and I will also be in the World in September. (My Pre-TR link is in my siggie if you care to take a look.) It's always cool to see what others have planned who are going around the same time!

Thanks for coming over!!!! I am so happy to have you!!! How awesome that you will be in September too---I am going to have to hop over and hear all about your voyage to the Mouse's House too!!



HEY GANG---Can someone tell me how to make a link to a single post so that I can start a Table of Contents to my Update posts on my first page??? I know how to make a link, but can't figure out how to make a link just for that one post.......Please help....seriously confused me!

[DWGal210]

Hi Jen! :goodvibes

I saw your link over on Jackie's PTR and wanted to read. I am so glad you guys are able to go this fall - and I was so touched by your daughter's story. It's so sweet to hear that she loves WDW so much! :lovestruc

Great job so far! And I bet you will live the values...I too have often made the will-have-more-money-for-souvenirs :) decision and I think you guys will like it. Plus you'll be at WDW for 8 days and you can't hate that! :rotfl:

Looking forward to more!

[Lady Lallie]

Holy Cow! That was a MEGA update!!

I am so happy that you are going on this trip. I'm surprised that you chose value but you know, I think you will have a good time. If your heart is set on Pop, keep trying, I know sometimes people cancel and they have rooms open up. That happened with me during Free Dining last year. :thumbsup2

I secretly wish you were staying at WL but there is always next time. Or resortitis.... :rolleyes1 :hug:

[Roxychica7]

What suspense!!! :laughing: Man, you got to the part about finding out after the break, and I was so mad! Then jumping around from resort to resort, until your final decision, gosh MM! :goodvibes
Still very touching about the story about you and Megs, I seriously can't wait to hear about your family trip, it's going to be wonderful!

[TarzansKat]

Wow, what an update. I'm glad you didn't do a cliffhanger, I would have died. :lmao:

First of all, I love reading about your sweet family. This is a treat for me, and I'm so glad you started a PTR. Whenever I read something you wrote, your love of life and your gratefulness for what you have just shines right through, and it really makes me reflect on what's important.

And a resort reveal! With possible switching? Listen, I know you're into numbers (or your husband is ;)) but I can't recommend enough the free dining! You'll really, really enjoy it. And with the way you budget, I'm sure it'll be no sweat for you to figure out what you need for gratuity, and any little extras you might want. I love going during free dining, and it's just a wonderful time of year in the World.

I am however, saddened to see I'm missing you by one day. :confused3 ONE DAY, WOMAN!!!! :lmao: Ah well. At least you can clear the path for us, eh? Get all those CMs and characters ready! :thumbsup2

[MegansMom]

Hi Jen! :goodvibes

I saw your link over on Jackie's PTR and wanted to read. I am so glad you guys are able to go this fall - and I was so touched by your daughter's story. It's so sweet to hear that she loves WDW so much! :lovestruc

Great job so far! And I bet you will live the values...I too have often made the will-have-more-money-for-souvenirs :) decision and I think you guys will like it. Plus you'll be at WDW for 8 days and you can't hate that! :rotfl:

Looking forward to more!

I am so glad you came on over---WELCOME!!! Megan is our miracle....I am CONSTANTLY reminded of that every day....and I am eternally grateful that she is mine and that I have been given the opportunity to witness a miracle on Earth! She LIVES for "Mickey's House," and she can't wait to get back.....just wait until I tell you about the reveal for her....too sweet! I am hoping we are okay with the values.....we shall see!!!

Holy Cow! That was a MEGA update!!

I am so happy that you are going on this trip. I'm surprised that you chose value but you know, I think you will have a good time. If your heart is set on Pop, keep trying, I know sometimes people cancel and they have rooms open up. That happened with me during Free Dining last year. :thumbsup2

I secretly wish you were staying at WL but there is always next time. Or resortitis.... :rolleyes1 :hug:

You are NOT kidding!!! BUT, I just wanted to give you guys some scoop....didn't want to stop once I got going!

You are NOT the only one surprised by our decision to stay value....now will we stick with it?!?!?!?!?!?!?! I will keep trying for Pop---can I just keep checking online, or do I have to call??? Do YOU know how to link to a single post so I can make a Table of Contents???? I am wishing--not too secretly mind you--this were our WL trip too, but there is always NEXT TRIP!!!

What suspense!!! :laughing: Man, you got to the part about finding out after the break, and I was so mad! Then jumping around from resort to resort, until your final decision, gosh MM! :goodvibes
Still very touching about the story about you and Megs, I seriously can't wait to hear about your family trip, it's going to be wonderful!

I hope what came after the break calmed your madness due to my faux-break!!!! Sorry to do that to you guys, but I want to keep it entertaining!!! :laughing: Now, just because there is a ressie doesn't mean we have reached a final decision......Resortitis anyone?!?!??!?! ;)

[TarzansKat]

Oh, gosh, you and I were posting at almost the same time. :lmao:

[maroo]

I am here!

I actually posted that yesterday, I think...but either the DIS died or my computer died...because it didn't post. And I almost remember thinking that I needed to go back...but I didn't...

anyway...

I am here! Subbin' in! Followed over from TK's report. :goodvibes I will be there in Sept, too...but earlier in the month. :thumbsup2

Did you get your answer to linking the single posts? :confused3 If not, let me know and I can PM ya an answer....

[pooh'smate]

I loved your super long post. I am looking forward to more long updates and seeing some of your lists.

P.S. The popcorn was good.;)

[Jennifer48]

First off a big :hug: to you and Megs.

Second a :yay:for not leaving me hanging with a cliffhanger! :rotfl:

Can't wait to hear about more plans! :goodvibes

[MegansMom]

Wow, what an update. I'm glad you didn't do a cliffhanger, I would have died. :lmao:

First of all, I love reading about your sweet family. This is a treat for me, and I'm so glad you started a PTR. Whenever I read something you wrote, your love of life and your gratefulness for what you have just shines right through, and it really makes me reflect on what's important.

And a resort reveal! With possible switching? Listen, I know you're into numbers (or your husband is ;)) but I can't recommend enough the free dining! You'll really, really enjoy it. And with the way you budget, I'm sure it'll be no sweat for you to figure out what you need for gratuity, and any little extras you might want. I love going during free dining, and it's just a wonderful time of year in the World.

I am however, saddened to see I'm missing you by one day. :confused3 ONE DAY, WOMAN!!!! :lmao: Ah well. At least you can clear the path for us, eh? Get all those CMs and characters ready! :thumbsup2

I knew if I didn't finish that cliffhanger, you all would have just cause to hit "Unsubscribe" in a heartbeat!!! :lmao: I wouldn't leave you all hanging like that!!! I know it was rather lengthy, but there was a history to this trip, and it needed to be told and relished by all to appreciate the greatness of the final booking!!! IT WAS A FEAT I SAY!!! OF EPIC PROPORTIONS!!!

We are so glad to be going during Free Dining, and even with all the budgeting and lists that will follow, we are still going crazy over the resort decision.....I just don't know. I think that I would have felt so much better had we gotten Pop, but now I am scared....downright worried about ASMO....more on this later!

I CAN'T BELIEVE WE ARE MISSING EACH OTHER BY A DAY EITHER!!!! When I figured it out, I was a little :sad2: then a bit of this :eek: followed by :scared1: and finished off with a little of this :sad1: SO CLOSE...........and yet......SO FAR!!!!!!!! I promise to leave some Pixie Dust for you....and a Lapu Lapu or two!!!!

Oh, gosh, you and I were posting at almost the same time. :lmao:

What can we say, great minds think alike!

I am here!

I actually posted that yesterday, I think...but either the DIS died or my computer died...because it didn't post. And I almost remember thinking that I needed to go back...but I didn't...

anyway...

I am here! Subbin' in! Followed over from TK's report. :goodvibes I will be there in Sept, too...but earlier in the month. :thumbsup2

Did you get your answer to linking the single posts? :confused3 If not, let me know and I can PM ya an answer....

I got your post....but glad you posted again!!! Sorry to be missing you too!!! BUT HAVE FUN WHILE YOU ARE THERE!!!!

I did get an answer, and I am going to go try it out as soon as I am done with my replies! Thanks!

I loved your super long post. I am looking forward to more long updates and seeing some of your lists.

P.S. The popcorn was good.;)

I am SO glad it wasn't too long and put you to sleep!!! More than likely, the rest of my updates will be about that long.....I am a windy gal and very verbose!!! I'm glad you enjoyed your popcorn!!!

[MegansMom]

First off a big :hug: to you and Megs.

Second a :yay:for not leaving me hanging with a cliffhanger! :rotfl:

Can't wait to hear about more plans! :goodvibes

Thanks for the hugs!!! We appreciate them SO much!!!!

I wouldn't be able to show my face around these DISboards had I left you all with a cliffhanger like that!!! That would be SHAMEFUL!!! ;)

I hope to update again soon!!! I feel like I have had such a late start on this PTR....much to share....much to say.....and little time to do it all in!!! I hope you all don't mind!!! ;)

[jenjolt]

Ahhhh...Jen great update!! And guess what you will be there at the same time I will be there!! WOOT!! I wish you and your very special bunch a great trip filled with a ton of magic and even better memories!

[MegansMom]

Ahhhh...Jen great update!! And guess what you will be there at the same time I will be there!! WOOT!! I wish you and your very special bunch a great trip filled with a ton of magic and even better memories!

I KNOW!!!! Do you think the world can handle this many Jens?!?!?!?!?! Should we call Mickey and warn him?!????!! :lmao::rotfl::rotfl2:

[pooh'smate]

I am SO glad it wasn't too long and put you to sleep!!! More than likely, the rest of my updates will be about that long.....I am a windy gal and very verbose!!! I'm glad you enjoyed your popcorn!!!

Well I would be the wrong one to ask if it was too long. I LOVE to read. I think it is one of the best things my mom ever got my brother and I into. So for me the longer the better.

[MRYPPNS]

Jen-
If you stick with a value you can aways drive yourselves to the parks since you will have your car. We did it in Oct and liked it better then the buses.

[heatherlizz602]

Hey Jen!!!

You were one of the first trip reports I started reading and loved!!! :goodvibes

I am so happy you got to plan another trip with the three of you. What a cute family.

I won't get to read too much of the PTR but I will be back just in time to read the TR!!!

[wigdoutdismom]

Followed you over from CP's thread!
Subbing!

[ILuvCrush]

wow! what an update MM!!!

Thanks for sharing megs story.... what a very special family you are:hug:

now for the bad news.... I'm ARRIVING on the 28th!!!:headache: I'm gonna miss you AND Julez because I'm not coming til monday rather than the weekend....grrrrr :sad1: stupid weekend work schedule:mad:

Oh well at least there's gnomefest;)

like others have said... if the busses are too crowded, at least you have your car...so you DO have options!!

Paula

[Raecheal]

:wave2:

I just read your whole TR- Your family is aboslutely adorable, especially your little one. From a POP lover, i'm sorry they're were no rooms left... but i'm sure you'll have an amazing time with Plan B, ASM.

I can't wait to read the rest of the plans especially your adr's.

[MegansMom]

Well I would be the wrong one to ask if it was too long. I LOVE to read. I think it is one of the best things my mom ever got my brother and I into. So for me the longer the better.

Hey...I am right there with you---of course I am also an English teacher by trade, so I think it just naturally comes with the territory!!! I will work hard to make them nice and long just for you!!! ;)

Jen-
If you stick with a value you can aways drive yourselves to the parks since you will have your car. We did it in Oct and liked it better then the buses.

I didn't think about that Heidi-----do we have to pay to park??? Tell me about driving to these parks...never thought about that. Do you have to walk a long way to get to the entrances from the parking lots??? Do you have to take another means of transport to get there from the lots??? I have never done this, so I need more info. TIA!!!

Hey Jen!!!

You were one of the first trip reports I started reading and loved!!! :goodvibes

I am so happy you got to plan another trip with the three of you. What a cute family.

I won't get to read too much of the PTR but I will be back just in time to read the TR!!!

I am so glad you found it and hopped on!!! You are too sweet!!! I will leave links up and running so that it hopefully will be easy for you to at least catch up on the updates!!! So glad you are here!

Followed you over from CP's thread!
Subbing!

YEAH!!!! WELCOME!!!! I am SO glad you came over!!! :banana:

wow! what an update MM!!!

Thanks for sharing megs story.... what a very special family you are:hug:

now for the bad news.... I'm ARRIVING on the 28th!!!:headache: I'm gonna miss you AND Julez because I'm not coming til monday rather than the weekend....grrrrr :sad1: stupid weekend work schedule:mad:

Oh well at least there's gnomefest;)

like others have said... if the busses are too crowded, at least you have your car...so you DO have options!!

Paula

UGGHHHH is right.....I can't believe that we are going to be like two ships passing in the night......SO....CLOSE!!!! I will make sure there is lots of pixie dust left for you!!!

:wave2:

I just read your whole TR- Your family is aboslutely adorable, especially your little one. From a POP lover, i'm sorry they're were no rooms left... but i'm sure you'll have an amazing time with Plan B, ASM.

I can't wait to read the rest of the plans especially your adr's.

I can't believe you just read the entire TR!!! WOW!!! I am so glad you are here!!! Thanks for the sweet words about Megan....we are SO blessed! The ADRs are already in the works.....hoping to share them with you shortly!!!! WELCOME!!!

[pooh'smate]

Hey...I am right there with you---of course I am also an English teacher by trade, so I think it just naturally comes with the territory!!! I will work hard to make them nice and long just for you!!! ;)

Well thank you.:flower3:

I didn't think about that Heidi-----do we have to pay to park??? Tell me about driving to these parks...never thought about that. Do you have to walk a long way to get to the entrances from the parking lots??? Do you have to take another means of transport to get there from the lots??? I have never done this, so I need more info. TIA!!!
I am pretty sure it is free if you are staying on site. I think AAA people get to park closer too but I am not sure. I remeber our AAA travel agent telling me that a few years ago when I had a trip booked through them. Someone let us know if this is correct or not.

[PookieB]

Glad your plans came through! Megs is a cutie pie! :cutie:

[The Marsons]

Great update. First off what a lovely family you are so much love and hugs to you!:grouphug:

It's going to be one amazing trip. My mouth is watering right now thinking of that free DDP!

[2xcited2sleep]

I am so giddy that you were able to book your trip. I know how much you were dreaming about it! :goodvibes

And yippee skippee we overlap by a few days. I arrive on the 24th.

Wow, Pop is booked? :scared1: The Unofficial Guide shows crowd levels to be fairly low. Yikes! Hope the crowd calendar isn't wrong.

But hey, it's Disney... how bad can it be? I'll be happy just sitting at the pool everyday.

Can't wait to do more planning with you! :yay:

[TarzansKat]

IT WAS A FEAT I SAY!!! OF EPIC PROPORTIONS!!!

Oh, I know. You must be so thrilled after the putting it off (for good reasons, of course) and thinking again, and putting it off, and not it's booked! :yay:


We are so glad to be going during Free Dining, and even with all the budgeting and lists that will follow, we are still going crazy over the resort decision.....I just don't know. I think that I would have felt so much better had we gotten Pop, but now I am scared....downright worried about ASMO....more on this later!

Hon, have you tried calling back to see if Pop is available? Is the promo still going on for free dining or has it ended? I mean, I would keep calling if it's still open, it can't hurt.


I CAN'T BELIEVE WE ARE MISSING EACH OTHER BY A DAY EITHER!!!! When I figured it out, I was a little :sad2: then a bit of this :eek: followed by :scared1: and finished off with a little of this :sad1: SO CLOSE...........and yet......SO FAR!!!!!!!! I promise to leave some Pixie Dust for you....and a Lapu Lapu or two!!!!

I know! I would love to have met you, but I'm sure that there will be many more trips to the World in which to do that.

Dis meet anyone? :lmao:

[MegansMom]

I am pretty sure it is free if you are staying on site. I think AAA people get to park closer too but I am not sure. I remeber our AAA travel agent telling me that a few years ago when I had a trip booked through them. Someone let us know if this is correct or not.

Good to know!!! I will look into it!

Glad your plans came through! Megs is a cutie pie! :cutie:

Me TOO!!! Thanks for the compliments on Megs....she's a keeper alright!

Great update. First off what a lovely family you are so much love and hugs to you!:grouphug:

It's going to be one amazing trip. My mouth is watering right now thinking of that free DDP!

You are so sweet and thanks so much for the hugs! :hug: It is funny you mention it being an amazing trip....my next update focuses on that topic alone!!! I can't wait for my ADR date, because I can't stop thinking of all that yummy food!

I am so giddy that you were able to book your trip. I know how much you were dreaming about it! :goodvibes

And yippee skippee we overlap by a few days. I arrive on the 24th.

Wow, Pop is booked? :scared1: The Unofficial Guide shows crowd levels to be fairly low. Yikes! Hope the crowd calendar isn't wrong.

But hey, it's Disney... how bad can it be? I'll be happy just sitting at the pool everyday.

Can't wait to do more planning with you! :yay:

I am this about the trip :cloud9: !!!! I know we overlap...isn't that fun!!! I couldn't believe that Pop was booked either---I'm hoping that it will still be low crowds, but maybe everyone is just staying at Pop....what do you think? More planning coming up!!!

Oh, I know. You must be so thrilled after the putting it off (for good reasons, of course) and thinking again, and putting it off, and not it's booked! :yay:



Hon, have you tried calling back to see if Pop is available? Is the promo still going on for free dining or has it ended? I mean, I would keep calling if it's still open, it can't hurt.



I know! I would love to have met you, but I'm sure that there will be many more trips to the World in which to do that.

Dis meet anyone? :lmao:


I am going to keep checking....is it better to check online or by phone???? We shall see!!! Should we be scared that Pop is booked?!?!?! Does that mean an ENORMOUS amount of crowds for SEPTEMBER?!?!?!?!??!?! I hope not!

I know at some point in my life, I am going to be down right fortunate to meet all my lovely DISfriends---I will be so happy! :yay:




OKAY GANG!!! I have another update in the works, but it won't be ready until later this afternoon at the earliest....I have to trek out today in the pouring down rain/thunderstorms to take Megs to her rehearsal for her dance recital, which is tomorrow. I also have to take care of some sewing issues for her costumes for tomorrow night. Once I can check those things off my list, I will be ready to update for you........so check back soon!!! Have a great WEDNESDAY!!!!! :goodvibes

[Lady Lallie]

I wouldn't be scared that Pop is booked. I think Pop is very popular for free dining because people take advantage of staying value to make it a more affordable trip. I would call, but that is just me. If you find it online then you would have to call to book it anyways, right?

You get a parking pass when you have a car, Jen just put hers right in her window and we never had to pay for parking. I do believe that AAA has closer parking lots. Just so you know for MK, you would have to park at the Ticket & Transportation Center and then boat or monorail over to the MK. That does make the trip to MK a little bit longer but manageable. We did use the parking lot trams when the walk was a bit longer, they run pretty frequently. I enjoyed driving with Jen and not taking the buses. :thumbsup2

[If U Had Wings]

So excited to see a new trip report! Can't wait to hear all about it. Your going to have a blast!

[CRSNDSNY]

Hi!
Just wanted to say that I'm only about a quarter of the way through your page 3 update but totally know what you went through with her! Amelia developed intra-utero growth retardation and then I was hit with severe pre-eclampsia. She was nearly 8 weeks premature. It was a all out bawl-fest when we took her to Disney for the first time. We just couldn't believe we'd made it that far.

Ok....off to read more!!!

[Raecheal]

I can't believe you just read the entire TR!!! WOW!!! I am so glad you are here!!! Thanks for the sweet words about Megan....we are SO blessed! The ADRs are already in the works.....hoping to share them with you shortly!!!! WELCOME!!!

It actually didn't take me that long to read... it was a good read. I can't wait to hear about your ADR's and the rest of your plans.

[CRSNDSNY]

Great start! Can't wait for more updates!!!

[UGAFan0829]

Woohoo for the update, and a good one, it was!!! It stinks that we aren't going to be there at the same time, but I'm just happy that you're getting to go after everything that happened! I have to admit that your story about Megs brought tears to my eyes. That is the sweetest thing ever. I know you are such a proud and thankful Mommy, and you have every reason to be!!
Oh, and by the way-We've stayed at All-Star Movies before. It was actually our 1st ever trip to Disney, so we didn't have anything to compare it to, but now that we've stayed at CBR, it really wasn't that bad. I think you'll be okay.
Thanks for not leaving us hanging...Can't wait for more!

[wigdoutdismom]

We stayed All-Star Movies on our first trip then French Quarter on our second trip, the main difference was the pool/hot tub, and play area. I thought the room was a little nicer but it might have been the theming too. The main difference I noticed was the other guests at the value were a little....... hmmmm how can I put this? Un-Disney like, we saw all kinds of antics in the food court at All-Star Movies.
With that said, if it was a choice of going to Disney or not, I would go value in a heartbeat.........

[tmkinney]

Yay! I've been wondering if you were going to be going this year, so I am so happy for you that you get to go again! I loved your last TR so I can't wait to read this one! We have went in September the past two years and it is GREAT, especially the low crowds. We are hoping to go in January to celebrate our DD's 6th birthday too! :goodvibes Looking forward to more.popcorn::

[TarzansKat]

I am going to keep checking....is it better to check online or by phone???? We shall see!!! Should we be scared that Pop is booked?!?!?! Does that mean an ENORMOUS amount of crowds for SEPTEMBER?!?!?!?!??!?! I hope not!

Hon? As the song goes, "Don't worry, be happy now." ;)

Seriously, yes, Pop is busy during free dining. Are the parks busy during free dining? To my mind, absolutely not. They're still some of the lightest crowds I've seen at Disney, with the exception being January. I've been this past year in September, December, and May, and the heaviest crowds were with Mom and Nana in December. My trip with Tink in May was over Memorial Day weekend, and quite frankly, I expected way more people than what we saw. I've also chosen to go for my family vacations in September for the past...three-four years, and started going even before the inception of free dining. Now that we have free dining September is definitely busier than it used to be, but busy is such a relative term. It's so not busy to me. So by comparison, September is a piece of cake. Savvy? And what I've really learned by my numerous trips is that all you really need is a good plan. A list of things you'd like to do, and chalk the rest up to gravy. Once you have that, you'll be just fine.

I would keep checking online. Religiously. And early in the morning if you can manage it. I'm obsessive like that and I'll freely admit it. But that's how I got my standard room at the Wilderness Lodge last year. Pop just books up so quickly because it's very popular, but that doesn't mean that someone isn't going to cancel. You just never know. :thumbsup2

[MegansMom]

I wouldn't be scared that Pop is booked. I think Pop is very popular for free dining because people take advantage of staying value to make it a more affordable trip. I would call, but that is just me. If you find it online then you would have to call to book it anyways, right?

You get a parking pass when you have a car, Jen just put hers right in her window and we never had to pay for parking. I do believe that AAA has closer parking lots. Just so you know for MK, you would have to park at the Ticket & Transportation Center and then boat or monorail over to the MK. That does make the trip to MK a little bit longer but manageable. We did use the parking lot trams when the walk was a bit longer, they run pretty frequently. I enjoyed driving with Jen and not taking the buses. :thumbsup2

I think I am going to try to make it a daily habit to call in the AM and see if there are any availabilities.....here's to hope!

Thanks for setting me straight on the driving issue....I think I will give Tom all the input and go from there....we will just have to see what it is like when we get there!

So excited to see a new trip report! Can't wait to hear all about it. Your going to have a blast!

Hey sweetie!!! I am glad you made your way over here!!! :banana:

Hi!
Just wanted to say that I'm only about a quarter of the way through your page 3 update but totally know what you went through with her! Amelia developed intra-utero growth retardation and then I was hit with severe pre-eclampsia. She was nearly 8 weeks premature. It was a all out bawl-fest when we took her to Disney for the first time. We just couldn't believe we'd made it that far.

Ok....off to read more!!!

Here's a hug for your delivery story too---:hug:---so glad I'm not the only emotional one there!! ;) Thank you for sharing that with me....I love hearing from others who have had similar situations!

It actually didn't take me that long to read... it was a good read. I can't wait to hear about your ADR's and the rest of your plans.

I am glad you enjoyed it.....and I hope this one can live up to it!!! :goodvibes

Great start! Can't wait for more updates!!!

Thanks sweetie!

Woohoo for the update, and a good one, it was!!! It stinks that we aren't going to be there at the same time, but I'm just happy that you're getting to go after everything that happened! I have to admit that your story about Megs brought tears to my eyes. That is the sweetest thing ever. I know you are such a proud and thankful Mommy, and you have every reason to be!!
Oh, and by the way-We've stayed at All-Star Movies before. It was actually our 1st ever trip to Disney, so we didn't have anything to compare it to, but now that we've stayed at CBR, it really wasn't that bad. I think you'll be okay.
Thanks for not leaving us hanging...Can't wait for more!

Thanks for your input on ASMO!!! I'm glad to hear that!!! I am glad our story touched you so!!! I still get teary-eyed at times when I think about it all....proud Mommy indeed!

We stayed All-Star Movies on our first trip then French Quarter on our second trip, the main difference was the pool/hot tub, and play area. I thought the room was a little nicer but it might have been the theming too. The main difference I noticed was the other guests at the value were a little....... hmmmm how can I put this? Un-Disney like, we saw all kinds of antics in the food court at All-Star Movies.
With that said, if it was a choice of going to Disney or not, I would go value in a heartbeat.........

Thanks for the input!!! I'm stocking up on ASMO input and advice to help us with our decisions!!! :goodvibes

Yay! I've been wondering if you were going to be going this year, so I am so happy for you that you get to go again! I loved your last TR so I can't wait to read this one! We have went in September the past two years and it is GREAT, especially the low crowds. We are hoping to go in January to celebrate our DD's 6th birthday too! :goodvibes Looking forward to more.popcorn::

Welcome Back!!! I am definitely looking forward to the low crowds! I am so glad you are back to read along again!

Hon? As the song goes, "Don't worry, be happy now." ;)

Seriously, yes, Pop is busy during free dining. Are the parks busy during free dining? To my mind, absolutely not. They're still some of the lightest crowds I've seen at Disney, with the exception being January. I've been this past year in September, December, and May, and the heaviest crowds were with Mom and Nana in December. My trip with Tink in May was over Memorial Day weekend, and quite frankly, I expected way more people than what we saw. I've also chosen to go for my family vacations in September for the past...three-four years, and started going even before the inception of free dining. Now that we have free dining September is definitely busier than it used to be, but busy is such a relative term. It's so not busy to me. So by comparison, September is a piece of cake. Savvy? And what I've really learned by my numerous trips is that all you really need is a good plan. A list of things you'd like to do, and chalk the rest up to gravy. Once you have that, you'll be just fine.

I would keep checking online. Religiously. And early in the morning if you can manage it. I'm obsessive like that and I'll freely admit it. But that's how I got my standard room at the Wilderness Lodge last year. Pop just books up so quickly because it's very popular, but that doesn't mean that someone isn't going to cancel. You just never know. :thumbsup2

Thanks sweetie for all your input and advice....I will be calling habitually, and if it doesn't work out, I will still enjoy a WONDERFUL trip with my lovely little family----I can't wait!!! :dance3::yay:


Okay Gang.....I hope your Wednesdays and Thursdays were GREAT!!! Mine were CRAZY!!!! Megan had her first dance recital tonight, so the past two days have been filled with rehearsals, practices, costume fixing, etc. all building up to the big event.....the RECITAL!!!! I am sorry that life has gotten in the way of the PTR.....how DARE it!!! ;););) I wanted to hop on here tonight and give you a little tidbit before we leave in 4 hours to travel to Kansas City, MO to visit our good friends. I will be deluging you with an onslaught of updates upon my return on Monday.....so be READY!!!

Just a quick note on the recital......it was WONDERFUL....BREATHTAKING.....AMAZING....and of course, brought me to a stream of "happy tears" in pride and amazement in what my little sweetie has accomplished in her short five and a half years. We were once told that she might not ever even walk, and tonight she was out there with the biggest smile on her face tapping and dancing her little heart out like the best little ballerina I have ever seen. It was a very emotional night for Tom and I to see how far she has come, and to acknowledge that SHE DID IT!!! :woohoo: There were quite a few "WOOHOOS" coming out of the mouth of this proud Mommy at the end of each brilliant number!!! I will share more and pictures upon our return, but couldn't leave without telling you about it!

On a WDW TRIP note: Megan is excited about the trip----so excited and happy that when we revealed that we were going to be going to "Mickey's House" in September right before her birthday to celebrate, she melted into a pile of "happy tears," smiles, and giggles as she went back and forth between Tom and me hugging the life out of us. (I am talking some serious, crocodile tears too!!!) You could definitely tell that we could not possibly have told her any better news in her entire life!!! Megan is so excited about the upcoming trip that she insisted that we start some type of countdown going NOW!!! We usually make a creative one around the 30 day mark (and we will still be doing that) but yesterday we started our own chalk countdown on the chalkboard in our kitchen---102 days to go!!! Pictures of that to come SOON!!!! I can't believe that I will be doing the Double-Digit Dance out-of-town, and away from the PTR.......SO I will just have a little pre-party dancing before I go:

:cool1::dance3::woohoo::yay::cheer2::sad2::worship ::rotfl2::lmao::dance3:

dance your tooshies off while I am gone!!!! I'll be home soon---with a little mini-TR in the midst of the BIG PTR for you!!! Have a great weekend!

[CRSNDSNY]

Ahhh, cute! Glad she was so thrilled! Also glad her recital went well....she must have looked totally cute!

p.s. - do you realize our countdowns are identical??!!

[TarzansKat]

Oh, congrats on the recital! That sounds wonderful.

And I'm glad that Megan had such a great reaction to the trip and wants the countdown now! You know, my little nut over here talks about it so much, I should probably start one soon, but I really wanted to stick with the 30 day thing. I'd love to see pictures of what you're doing on your chalkboard when you have time! :goodvibes

[timandlesley]

Yeah! Great update. Wow, I couldn't have taken all of those ups and downs of planning and cancelling, makes me super duper excited for ou now!!! I remember your story of Megan being a preemie because of Lauren's similar preemie story -glad she is doing well and both our preemies are thriving. Glad Tom decided to take the trip and that you guys are staying at All Star Movies, can't wait to hear all about it! I think Free Dining is a GREAT deal, how could you pass it up!?!
Can't wait for more.
Lesley

[Lady Lallie]

I got a little teary reading about Megs reaction to the trip. *Sniff Sniff*

[moparop]

This PTR needs a warning: Will make pregnant women cry!

My younger son arrived 6 weeks early also due to pre-eclampsia and that is my biggest fear in this pregnancy. So far my blood pressures have been normal, but I am sure you know the daily anxiety waiting for the floor to drop out. Megan is gorgeous and amazing! To think you were told she may never walk and is dnacing on stage. And her reaction to going to Mickey's house - AWESOME!

We've never stayed in a value, but I always hear good things. It also sounds like the values may sell out for free dining, but there is plenty of room at the other resorts. I don't think you'll feel it in the parks! Have a great time in St Louis and I am looking forward to more updates. (I'll be sure to have tissues ready for those!)

[Jennifer48]

Megs reaction is so cute!! Have a great weekend! :goodvibes

[2xcited2sleep]

Awww. I love how excited Megs is about the trip!! And I am teary for all that you've been through as a family and so happy that you have all come through it so well and now get to celebrate together in the most magical & happiest place on earth!

Looking forward to more planning and, of course, pictures of the recital!!

Hope you have a good weekend!!

[disneylovinfamily]

I am along for the ride and will be in Disney the same week :banana:

[wigdoutdismom]

Oh my, a dance recital:cloud9: My girls both did them and I know what an emotional experience it can be. Just to see your daughter on stage looking so cute really pulls at the old heartstrings. Can't wait to see pictures!
How sweet about Megan's reaction to the trip, can't wait to see the chalkboard.;)

[pooh'smate]

Okay Gang.....I hope your Wednesdays and Thursdays were GREAT!!! Mine were CRAZY!!!! Megan had her first dance recital tonight, so the past two days have been filled with rehearsals, practices, costume fixing, etc. all building up to the big event.....the RECITAL!!!! I am sorry that life has gotten in the way of the PTR.....how DARE it!!! ;););) I wanted to hop on here tonight and give you a little tidbit before we leave in 4 hours to travel to Kansas City, MO to visit our good friends. I will be deluging you with an onslaught of updates upon my return on Monday.....so be READY!!!

You will be in my neck of the woods. I am only about 2 1/2 to 3 hours from there depending on where in KC you are. It is also the home of the closest Disney Store now that they closed the one here in Omaha.:sad1:

Just a quick note on the recital......it was WONDERFUL....BREATHTAKING.....AMAZING....and of course, brought me to a stream of "happy tears" in pride and amazement in what my little sweetie has accomplished in her short five and a half years. We were once told that she might not ever even walk, and tonight she was out there with the biggest smile on her face tapping and dancing her little heart out like the best little ballerina I have ever seen. It was a very emotional night for Tom and I to see how far she has come, and to acknowledge that SHE DID IT!!! :woohoo: There were quite a few "WOOHOOS" coming out of the mouth of this proud Mommy at the end of each brilliant number!!! I will share more and pictures upon our return, but couldn't leave without telling you about it!

I am looking forward to the pictures.

On a WDW TRIP note: Megan is excited about the trip----so excited and happy that when we revealed that we were going to be going to "Mickey's House" in September right before her birthday to celebrate, she melted into a pile of "happy tears," smiles, and giggles as she went back and forth between Tom and me hugging the life out of us. (I am talking some serious, crocodile tears too!!!) You could definitely tell that we could not possibly have told her any better news in her entire life!!! Megan is so excited about the upcoming trip that she insisted that we start some type of countdown going NOW!!! We usually make a creative one around the 30 day mark (and we will still be doing that) but yesterday we started our own chalk countdown on the chalkboard in our kitchen---102 days to go!!! Pictures of that to come SOON!!!! I can't believe that I will be doing the Double-Digit Dance out-of-town, and away from the PTR.......SO I will just have a little pre-party dancing before I go:

Looking forward to seeing your countdown. I too teared up at Megan's reaction so precious.:cutie:

[Charleston Princess]

Finally! Now I can breath a sigh of immense relief that you not only have a trip in the works, but a PTR as well! I am so excited for you! :hug:

[trixiequilts]

Hey Jen~I missed the beginning of your wonderful PTR because we were out of town, but I must still say YAY! for you and your family!!! :banana: I know the planning of this trip was a long time coming...but you did it! You're going!!! :cheer2:

Your other PTR was the very first PTR I ever read and I'm so excited to be able to share another trip with your family (and to see all your adorable pics of Megan too). :cutie:

Keep up the good work...consider me a full-fledged fan. :worship:

[maroo]

Hon? As the song goes, "Don't worry, be happy now." ;)

Seriously, yes, Pop is busy during free dining. Are the parks busy during free dining? To my mind, absolutely not. They're still some of the lightest crowds I've seen at Disney, with the exception being January. I've been this past year in September, December, and May, and the heaviest crowds were with Mom and Nana in December. My trip with Tink in May was over Memorial Day weekend, and quite frankly, I expected way more people than what we saw. I've also chosen to go for my family vacations in September for the past...three-four years, and started going even before the inception of free dining. Now that we have free dining September is definitely busier than it used to be, but busy is such a relative term. It's so not busy to me. So by comparison, September is a piece of cake. Savvy? And what I've really learned by my numerous trips is that all you really need is a good plan. A list of things you'd like to do, and chalk the rest up to gravy. Once you have that, you'll be just fine.

I would keep checking online. Religiously. And early in the morning if you can manage it. I'm obsessive like that and I'll freely admit it. But that's how I got my standard room at the Wilderness Lodge last year. Pop just books up so quickly because it's very popular, but that doesn't mean that someone isn't going to cancel. You just never know. :thumbsup2

I just want to echo what TK said here...

Everything I hear from the boards, podcasts and such is that there are people in the resorts (especially value) and the restaurants are crowded during free dining, but the parks are usually fairly light in the crowds because a lot more people are there to dine - like me!

Also...people will cancel. I agree with TK, check daily. But I just canceled 4 of my nights to shorten my trip some and someone has probably already gotten those, but it was not even time to pay for the rest of the trip. I would imagine that LOTS of people cancel about 45 days out when they have to pay $$$$$$ to Disney. So, I would definitely check then. Same with any ADR's you were not able to get...they will cancel those, too and leave some open for others to grab.

Anyway...that was just my 10 cents.

[MegansMom]

Ahhh, cute! Glad she was so thrilled! Also glad her recital went well....she must have looked totally cute!

p.s. - do you realize our countdowns are identical??!!

She was and continues to be thrilled on a daily basis whenever talk of the trip comes up....already has a LONG list of "to-do's!!!!" :goodvibes She looked SO cute in her costume.....and YES, I will be happy to post some here within the next day or so once I get them all uploaded and ready to go!

I didn't realize our countdowns were identical because I can't see mine right now!!! YAY!!!! Wouldn't it be fun if our itineraries were identical too!!! ;)

Oh, congrats on the recital! That sounds wonderful.

And I'm glad that Megan had such a great reaction to the trip and wants the countdown now! You know, my little nut over here talks about it so much, I should probably start one soon, but I really wanted to stick with the 30 day thing. I'd love to see pictures of what you're doing on your chalkboard when you have time! :goodvibes

I will get the pictures up of the chalkboard countdown---it will have to do until we hit the big 3-0!!!! She is so excited, and I feel like our time is just zooming by since we got such a late start!!!!

Yeah! Great update. Wow, I couldn't have taken all of those ups and downs of planning and cancelling, makes me super duper excited for ou now!!! I remember your story of Megan being a preemie because of Lauren's similar preemie story -glad she is doing well and both our preemies are thriving. Glad Tom decided to take the trip and that you guys are staying at All Star Movies, can't wait to hear all about it! I think Free Dining is a GREAT deal, how could you pass it up!?!
Can't wait for more.
Lesley

Thanks Lesley!!! Trust me, the rollercoaster planning was NO FUN AT ALL!!! There were days where I almost felt sick to my stomach because it was so close, and then so far!!!

I am so glad too that our girls are SUCH troopers!!! When I see pics of Lauren and all that she can do, I am so proud on your behalf---what survivors we have!!!

I am still uneasy about ASMO, but the FREE DINING is FANTASTIC!!!

I got a little teary reading about Megs reaction to the trip. *Sniff Sniff*

Tom and I teared up too! She was so honestly crying joyfully that it was TOO sweet!

This PTR needs a warning: Will make pregnant women cry!

My younger son arrived 6 weeks early also due to pre-eclampsia and that is my biggest fear in this pregnancy. So far my blood pressures have been normal, but I am sure you know the daily anxiety waiting for the floor to drop out. Megan is gorgeous and amazing! To think you were told she may never walk and is dnacing on stage. And her reaction to going to Mickey's house - AWESOME!

We've never stayed in a value, but I always hear good things. It also sounds like the values may sell out for free dining, but there is plenty of room at the other resorts. I don't think you'll feel it in the parks! Have a great time in St Louis and I am looking forward to more updates. (I'll be sure to have tissues ready for those!)

I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers during your pregnancy---remember to seriously take it EASY and drink LOTS of water! It really will help stave off the preeclamptic conditions as long as possible, and every day you get to keep them inside, saves about 3 days in the NICU so it is definitely worth it!

I think the FD is the reason Pop was booked....not too worried about the crowds in the parks....just on the buses. Tom has already said that if we have problems in that area, we are moving.....we shall see! I'll try to alert you from here on out when tissues are needed!! ;)

Megs reaction is so cute!! Have a great weekend! :goodvibes

It was SO cute!!! I wish one of us thought enough to tape it, but we didn't!!! We had a great weekend---a mini-TR is already in the works!

Awww. I love how excited Megs is about the trip!! And I am teary for all that you've been through as a family and so happy that you have all come through it so well and now get to celebrate together in the most magical & happiest place on earth!

Looking forward to more planning and, of course, pictures of the recital!!

Hope you have a good weekend!!

We had a GREAT weekend!!! I have LOTS of pictures to upload from the recital and the weekend to share with you all---so now you have something to look forward to over the next couple of days!! :goodvibes

I am along for the ride and will be in Disney the same week :banana:

SO glad you are along for the ride!!! SO EXCITED that we are going to be at the Mouse's House at the same time!!! Where are you staying?

Oh my, a dance recital:cloud9: My girls both did them and I know what an emotional experience it can be. Just to see your daughter on stage looking so cute really pulls at the old heartstrings. Can't wait to see pictures!
How sweet about Megan's reaction to the trip, can't wait to see the chalkboard.;)

I am trying to upload these pictures tonight---hoping to share them with you all soon!!! She looked SO cute!

You will be in my neck of the woods. I am only about 2 1/2 to 3 hours from there depending on where in KC you are. It is also the home of the closest Disney Store now that they closed the one here in Omaha.:sad1:



I am looking forward to the pictures.



Looking forward to seeing your countdown. I too teared up at Megan's reaction so precious.:cutie:

We were in the heart of KC, MO---we had such a great time....mini-TR is already in the works!

Megan was so cute!!! I just wished I would have thought enough to video it!

Finally! Now I can breath a sigh of immense relief that you not only have a trip in the works, but a PTR as well! I am so excited for you! :hug:

HEY JACKIE!!!! I am so glad you found your way over here!!! I fully intended to have this thing rolling before you left, but then the computer broke....so sorry to leave you hanging....you must have thought about it ALL WEEK at WDW!!!! :rotfl::lmao: I hope you had A GREAT TRIP!!! I thought about you and your gang---hoped you were having a great time!! Can't wait to hear all about it! BUT, I must warn you......I have caught a HORRIBLE case of RESORTITIS......I am going to need your help curing me of this dreadful disease!

Hey Jen~I missed the beginning of your wonderful PTR because we were out of town, but I must still say YAY! for you and your family!!! :banana: I know the planning of this trip was a long time coming...but you did it! You're going!!! :cheer2:

Your other PTR was the very first PTR I ever read and I'm so excited to be able to share another trip with your family (and to see all your adorable pics of Megan too). :cutie:

Keep up the good work...consider me a full-fledged fan. :worship:

I am SO glad you found it!!! I started it, then I too went out-of-town....now that I am back, the PTR is going to be hopping!!! I have SO much to discuss and share with you all----I made a list while I was away! You made me blush and giggle when you said you were a "fan!" :lovestruc I am SO touched!!! I think this one is going to be even better!!!

I just want to echo what TK said here...

Everything I hear from the boards, podcasts and such is that there are people in the resorts (especially value) and the restaurants are crowded during free dining, but the parks are usually fairly light in the crowds because a lot more people are there to dine - like me!

Also...people will cancel. I agree with TK, check daily. But I just canceled 4 of my nights to shorten my trip some and someone has probably already gotten those, but it was not even time to pay for the rest of the trip. I would imagine that LOTS of people cancel about 45 days out when they have to pay $$$$$$ to Disney. So, I would definitely check then. Same with any ADR's you were not able to get...they will cancel those, too and leave some open for others to grab.

Anyway...that was just my 10 cents.


I love your 10 cents---you know I will take your wisdom anytime!!! I am going to keep trying....so much to think about....so little time!!! I am so glad you came on board over here!

HAPPY MONDAY EVERYBODY!!!!!

I'm BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCKKKKKK KKKKK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We had a wonderful weekend with our friends in Kansas City, MO.....I am already working on the mini-TR within the PTR so you can see a little of the fun we got ourselves into while I was away! I am so sorry I had to put the PTR on pause over the weekend, but have no fear---now that I am back, we are going to be going full speed ahead from here on out....I have MUCH to say and share and VERY little time to do it all in!!!! PHEW!!! I am already feeling pressed for time in getting everything ready, but I know that it will all fall into place!

Although gone from the DIS, I was still very much focused on planning for this trip while we were on the road. I made so many lists---a list of PTR topics (yes, I am THAT bad ;)), a list of possible itineraries, ADRs based upon those itineraries, etc., etc., etc.!!!!! I filled up a large part of the notebook I took with me!!!

NOW, I have quite a bit of pictures I want to upload so that I can share with you, but shortly I will be updating about the recital, our trip, and of course, ALL MY PLANS!!! Expect daily updates, and even multiple daily updates over the next couple of days.......by the way, I hope you all did some DOUBLE DIGIT DANCING for me----98 days to go!!! :dance3: Updating soon!!!! On what??? Just wait and see!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

[If U Had Wings]

I'm so happy to hear that Megan's recital went so well. My nieces had their first recital this year and it was just wonderful. She'll probably be driving you nuts until you get to Disney. :)

[pooh'smate]

Welcome home, glad to hear you had a GREAT weekend! Looking forward to all the updates.

[micandminforever]

I look forward to the pictures and mini-TR within the PTR.:surfweb:

[Charleston Princess]

You want ME to cure you of your resortitis, Jen??? :lmao::rotfl::rotfl2: You are too, too, too funny! However, I will help you change resorts a whole bunch in the next 53 days (yes, I did the math of how many days you have until your package has to be paid off and no more changes can be made) :lmao:.

Can't wait to see all the pics from your trip to Kansas City!

Don't worry -- I made lists of PTR topics as well. I think it is normal. ;)

[2xcited2sleep]

Daily updates, multiple daily updates and double digit dancing?! :faint: It's too much. In a good way. A very good way! :woohoo::dance3::woohoo:

popcorn::

[disneylovinfamily]

We are staying at POR. We love Pop and have been stying there alot on teh last few trips but wanted to try something new this time.

[moparop]

I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers during your pregnancy---remember to seriously take it EASY and drink LOTS of water! It really will help stave off the preeclamptic conditions as long as possible, and every day you get to keep them inside, saves about 3 days in the NICU so it is definitely worth it!

I think the FD is the reason Pop was booked....not too worried about the crowds in the parks....just on the buses. Tom has already said that if we have problems in that area, we are moving.....we shall see! I'll try to alert you from here on out when tissues are needed!! ;)

Thanks for thinking of this pregnant woman -- We saw Up over the weekend and my boys kept asking me what I was crying for. It was a bit hard to explain to a 4 year old exactly why a cartoon could make his mother an emotional mess!

I really appreciate the thoughts and prayers. Things have been going well so far this pregnancy, but we have decided that I need stick close to home until this baby arrives. Although the extended family is 300 miles away and I miss them dearly, car rides like that certainly don't help the ol blood pressure. And since I am already prone to have high blood pressure, the last thing we need is to have it develop into pre-eclampsia. My goal is to get past Doug's (my older son's) birthday (August 5th) which would put the baby at 35 weeks. My ultimate goal is to make September 1... which is the goal I am really trying to get to. That would make me 39 weeks.

That's awesome that Tom has said that it would be ok to move resorts if the crowds are bad -- such a relief! And did you see that you can now do ADRs on-line?! I was playing with the site earlier today and it seems very cool!

Looking forward to the miniTR and upcming updates! :cool1:

[MegansMom]

I'm so happy to hear that Megan's recital went so well. My nieces had their first recital this year and it was just wonderful. She'll probably be driving you nuts until you get to Disney. :)

So far she hasn't driven us nuts yet.....she is just so cute though because everyday when we change the countdown, she gets all giddy and excited just like the day we told her!!! She can't WAIT!!!!

Welcome home, glad to hear you had a GREAT weekend! Looking forward to all the updates.

Thanks so much! Updates will be posting shortly!

I look forward to the pictures and mini-TR within the PTR.:surfweb:

Thanks!!! BTW---where are you staying this time around????

You want ME to cure you of your resortitis, Jen??? :lmao::rotfl::rotfl2: You are too, too, too funny! However, I will help you change resorts a whole bunch in the next 53 days (yes, I did the math of how many days you have until your package has to be paid off and no more changes can be made) :lmao:.

Can't wait to see all the pics from your trip to Kansas City!

Don't worry -- I made lists of PTR topics as well. I think it is normal. ;)

:lmao::rotfl::laughing: YOU DID THE MATH!!!! That is why I love ya Jackie!!! I knew I could count on you to "help" me with my crisis! BTW---Miss Megan shrieked with glee when she pulled her postcard out of the mailbox yesterday!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! That was SO sweet of you to think of her!!! Sending you great big hugs!!! :hug::hug::hug:

Daily updates, multiple daily updates and double digit dancing?! :faint: It's too much. In a good way. A very good way! :woohoo::dance3::woohoo:

popcorn::

I KNOW!!!! My brain is just moving 90 miles a minute though---I hope they don't all come out sounding like gibberish!

We are staying at POR. We love Pop and have been stying there alot on teh last few trips but wanted to try something new this time.

Enjoy your trip to POR!!!! We stayed there once with my family when it was still Dixie Landings....it was so nice and beautiful!

Thanks for thinking of this pregnant woman -- We saw Up over the weekend and my boys kept asking me what I was crying for. It was a bit hard to explain to a 4 year old exactly why a cartoon could make his mother an emotional mess!

I really appreciate the thoughts and prayers. Things have been going well so far this pregnancy, but we have decided that I need stick close to home until this baby arrives. Although the extended family is 300 miles away and I miss them dearly, car rides like that certainly don't help the ol blood pressure. And since I am already prone to have high blood pressure, the last thing we need is to have it develop into pre-eclampsia. My goal is to get past Doug's (my older son's) birthday (August 5th) which would put the baby at 35 weeks. My ultimate goal is to make September 1... which is the goal I am really trying to get to. That would make me 39 weeks.

That's awesome that Tom has said that it would be ok to move resorts if the crowds are bad -- such a relief! And did you see that you can now do ADRs on-line?! I was playing with the site earlier today and it seems very cool!

Looking forward to the miniTR and upcming updates! :cool1:

I remember having goals like that too!!! When I was on bedrest, Tom would bring me home a "treat" on the day that marked another week gone by.....I was so disappointed I didn't make it further!!! You just take care of you!!!

[UGAFan0829]

Woo-hoo for more updates! I can't wait to hear about it ALL!!:woohoo:

[Charleston Princess]

:lmao::rotfl::laughing: YOU DID THE MATH!!!! That is why I love ya Jackie!!! I knew I could count on you to "help" me with my crisis! BTW---Miss Megan shrieked with glee when she pulled her postcard out of the mailbox yesterday!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! That was SO sweet of you to think of her!!! Sending you great big hugs!!! :hug::hug::hug:

Of course I did the math -- had to know how many days I had to work with. :rotfl:

You are so very welcome! I am so glad that Megs liked it -- at the time I didn't know you would be headed back so soon, but it was perfect timing, wasn't it? See, we were separated at birth! :lmao:

[MegansMom]

To start this lovely update off, I need to let you know that it will NOT be the only update of the day......much to say and share with all you lovely folks.....so be prepared!

AND NOW, back to the aforementioned CELEBRATIONS!!!

Now, I have told you when we are going (and the crazy muddled-mess that was getting those dates), and I have shared with you where we are staying (although please note that I have the rights to change that at my discretion ;)) , but I have left you lovely PTR readers hanging about why the CELEBRATIONS!!! "HEIGH HO, HEIGH HO, IT'S OFF TO CELEBRATE WE GO!!!"

Well, our little family has MUCH to be celebrating while at Mickey's House this year......kind of fitting since their theme this year is all about CELEBRATIONS too!!! First of all, this trip is right before and in complete celebration of one of our favorite days of the year---MEGAN'S BIRTHDAY!!! Unfortunately, we won't actually be in the World on that day, but right up to it---her birthday is the 29th! Don't worry though, she is happy to be home for her actual birthday so that she can take treats into her class at school, and meet our family for dinner at the restaurant of her choice---OLIVE GARDEN! (Sidenote: We had a party there last year for my Grandfather's 89th birthday and she LOVED the cake they brought out at the end of the meal. Since then, she has told us over and over again how she wants to go there for her birthday too to eat that CAKE!) So, the entire week we are there, we are celebrating the miraculous, wonderful, amazing event of her birth, and the awe-inspiring achievements and progress she has made since then! This year, my little baby is turning 6! I can seriously hardly believe it!!! She has come so far from her little 2 and a half pound start, and has defied many odds to go from "never being able to walk" to dancing up a storm at her first ballet recital. Yes, we are proud to say the least! So since we have so much to celebrate for her, the week will greatly be tailored to her and every little whim her heart desires.

We also have other wonderful things to celebrate: my 33rd birthday and our 10th wedding anniversary! My birthday is actually on the 4th of September, but I feel like this trip is the BEST present I could have ever received for it! It will bring me immense joy watching all the magic and wonder in my daughter's eyes---can't find a better gift than that....not even at Tiffany's! I am (probably one of the few women on this Earth) that is VERY proud of her age....I feel it is an accomplishment! I know how close I was to never experiencing another birthday, so now I relish them! The wisdom and experience I have gained with each passing year, is far superior to the amount of looks or youth that I may have lost along the way. SO HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!

And lastly, our ANNIVERSARY! Tom and I will officially be celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary on July 24th, but we feel this vacation is part of that celebration as well. We are very proud to have made it to this milestone---it seems all too often, couples don't make it this far nowadays---and we are proud of that accomplishment. I know we can both honestly say that we love each other so much more than we did on that very HOT July day when we said "I DO!" He is my best friend, and such a wonderful companion.....I am so blessed! When people started asking us what we were going to do to celebrate this big milestone, we were at a loss.....we feel we celebrate it on a daily basis...what could we possibly do that would seem worthy? When he asked me what I wanted to do, I honestly told him the only thing I wanted to do this year was take Megs back to WDW just the three of us.....and that my dear friends, is what we are doing!!! Yeah we might be two months off, but I know that in our hearts, Tom and I see no better way to celebrate our love for each other that has produced such a wonderfully amazing little girl---our Megs.

So, we are going to be partying like "ROCKSTARS" to celebrate all that we are so grateful, so thankful for.....and I honestly can NOT think of another way any one of us would want to celebrate any of this any differently!!!! SO, IT'S OFF TO CELEBRATE WE GO!!!!


Now, stay tuned, because later today there will be SO MUCH MORE COMING!!!!

[wigdoutdismom]

What great thoughts, congratulations on all that you are planning to celebrate!

I'll be watching for the other update:cool2:

[Lady Lallie]

Woo Hoo for celebrating!!

It's funny because my birthday is September 3rd and yours is the 4th. My parents anniversary is July 28th and yours is the 24th...very close again! My parents are celebrating 30 years this year! :scared1: You are right, those anniversary milestones are rare these days!

I am so happy for you and all of your celebrations! :goodvibes

[Charleston Princess]

So many fun things to celebrate, Jen! Don't forget to pick up anniversary and birthday buttons at guest services! You need to wear those at the parks while you party like Rockstars!!!

[pooh'smate]

You are going to have a great time CELEBRATING!!!!!!!!!! Your birthday and my dh's are on the same day. Also I too will be 33 but I am exactly 3 weeks earlier than you ;) (my bd is August 14). The birthdays in our house are all within 3 weeks, mine, then dd 8/16 and then my dh 9/4. We too also celebrated our 10th anniversary this year (May 10). Our trip to WDW is to celebrate too.

[CRSNDSNY]

YOu have so much to celebrate!

[redsox721]

I lurk here and there but loved reading your other TR. It was very heartwarming and moving. Your little girl is amazing, as are you and Tom.

Congratulations on all your CELEBRATIONS! I look forward to reading your PTR and then TR.

We will be celebrating 25 years of marriage on July 1. We celebrated early by going to Disneyland (for a first visit) in early May.

[MinnieNurse]

I love your reasons to celebrate. :cloud9: I was a NICU nurse for 6 years and then the manager of a NICU for several years so hearing Megan's success really touches my heart. I am so glad she is healthy and enjoying life to its fullest. It is obvious by your posts that you and DH feel very blessed to have her.

Okay, enough of that: I love to party like a rockstar!!! :cool1::cool2:

[MegansMom]

Woo-hoo for more updates! I can't wait to hear about it ALL!!:woohoo:

I have so much to share with you guys, I'm afraid I am going to miss something......so PLEASE ask if there is something you want to know!!!

Of course I did the math -- had to know how many days I had to work with. :rotfl:

You are so very welcome! I am so glad that Megs liked it -- at the time I didn't know you would be headed back so soon, but it was perfect timing, wasn't it? See, we were separated at birth! :lmao:

I should have known you would do the math....I am sure you are ready with your input too!!! I think I might just have to do the "Resortitis" update next just to hear it all!!!

Separated indeed my dear! I felt SO badly that you left without hearing all about my news! That is why I made sure to tell Wigd to say a special "hi" to you while you were there together!!! Sending you hugs any way I can!:hug:

What great thoughts, congratulations on all that you are planning to celebrate!

I'll be watching for the other update:cool2:

Thanks dearie!! The other update is coming right up!

Woo Hoo for celebrating!!

It's funny because my birthday is September 3rd and yours is the 4th. My parents anniversary is July 28th and yours is the 24th...very close again! My parents are celebrating 30 years this year! :scared1: You are right, those anniversary milestones are rare these days!

I am so happy for you and all of your celebrations! :goodvibes

I love how we share a birthday...almost!!! Maybe that is why we often have so much in common!!!

We are the first in our group of friends to hit the big 1-0 anniversary...and sadly, we have already lived through three divorces within our group alone! I think my friends are so interested to see what we are doing to know what to expect when they reach their 10th....we don't care, we just want to celebrate our little family of three!

So many fun things to celebrate, Jen! Don't forget to pick up anniversary and birthday buttons at guest services! You need to wear those at the parks while you party like Rockstars!!!

I will be sure to pick up our buttons.....can we get them at the resort when we check in? I was wondering if they can do something special for Megan in our room to start our celebration off right...balloons maybe?? A card??? What do you think???

I can't wait to get this party started!!!!!

You are going to have a great time CELEBRATING!!!!!!!!!! Your birthday and my dh's are on the same day. Also I too will be 33 but I am exactly 3 weeks earlier than you ;) (my bd is August 14). The birthdays in our house are all within 3 weeks, mine, then dd 8/16 and then my dh 9/4. We too also celebrated our 10th anniversary this year (May 10). Our trip to WDW is to celebrate too.

Happy Birthday in advance....isn't 33 a great age to be!!! :goodvibes Send your DH a Happy Birthday hello for me on the 4th---what a great day to be born!

Happy Anniversary as well!!! I am so glad you get to celebrate it also in the Happiest Place on Earth!

YOu have so much to celebrate!

Thank you....I truly am blessed! So while you are there, if you hear a party going on...it will probably be us! ;)

I lurk here and there but loved reading your other TR. It was very heartwarming and moving. Your little girl is amazing, as are you and Tom.

Congratulations on all your CELEBRATIONS! I look forward to reading your PTR and then TR.

We will be celebrating 25 years of marriage on July 1. We celebrated early by going to Disneyland (for a first visit) in early May.

WELCOME BACK!!! I am so honored that you read along last time, and enjoyed it so much to come back! I am so glad to have you here!

Thanks too for the congrats! Congrats to you as well---25 is definitely something worth celebrating....especially at DISNEYLAND!!! I dream of going there someday, just to see where it all began!

I love your reasons to celebrate. :cloud9: I was a NICU nurse for 6 years and then the manager of a NICU for several years so hearing Megan's success really touches my heart. I am so glad she is healthy and enjoying life to its fullest. It is obvious by your posts that you and DH feel very blessed to have her.

Okay, enough of that: I love to party like a rockstar!!! :cool1::cool2:

On behalf of all the parents of the children you took care of over the years, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!! Tom and I are still so grateful for the tireless and compassionate hard work of the NICU nurses that took care of Megan. We know that there were way too many times to count when the nurse's quick thinking and jumping into action helped save Megan's life during the rollercoaster weeks we spent in the NICU. We deal with her little side effects here and there, but are so grateful for how well she has done because we know that it could have been SO much worse. We are BLESSED indeed!

OKAY......back to partying like ROCKSTARS!!!! :dance3::woohoo:

[MegansMom]

Are you ready for Round Two for today?!?!?!?!?!?!?! I told you gang, I have LOTS to share, so these updates may be coming FAST and FURIOUS!!!!

Now, I know I have made several comments alluding to this disease already, but I am suffering from SUCH a bad case, that I thought it deserved its' own update!!!!

As you know already, we are currently staying at All-Star Movies for the complete duration of our stay due to the fact that we are 1.) trying to save some money to put towards our new home and b.) Pop was booked when I called to make our reservation. I don't know how I feel about this right now.

I chose ASMO at that fateful moment when the CM told me POP was booked for one reason: I knew we could stay in a Toy Story themed room. Since this trip is VERY much about Megan's desires and she has LONG been a fan of those movies, I knew she would enjoy staying somewhere that she could see Buzz and Woody smiling at her every morning when she woke up. So I booked us in a Toy Story room----and it better be a Toy Story room by gosh since I paid extra for it----and rested somewhat happy knowing the joy it will bring to Megs.....emphasis on SOMEWHAT!

Once the reservation was made, it did not take long before the resortitis began to creep in.....like maybe an entire hour! I should have known going into this trip that I would be INCREDIBLY susceptible......for many reasons. We have stayed at DVC resorts for our past three trips, and I will admit, I have become somewhat accustomed to living it up large and deluxe. I'm not a high-maintenance gal at all, but we have really enjoyed having a kitchenette, staying at often less-crowded resorts because we were staying DVC, and not having to wait in as long of lines for buses because of all that. I know we can adjust to having a smaller room, double beds, and no refrigerator.......but I am NOT sure how we are going to handle the situation with the buses!!!! My lovely DH is VERY susceptible to motion sickness---even in buses---and really needs to sit and face forward to make it to the parks without getting sick. Not knowing if the ASresorts are going to share buses or not, and not knowing how crowded or not crowded these buses are going to be, does cause a little bit of caution and hesitation amongst us--it has even caused a little concern in my VERY laid back hubby! He has already stated that if there is a problem with having to wait too long to get on a bus or never being able to sit on those buses, that we will be moving to another resort that week! But honestly, I don't even know if I want to take that chance! I have still been checking on POP just in case an opening becomes available....but do I really want to stay at a completely booked POP???? Is that going to be any better than sharing buses at ASMO?????

And to be quite honest, I still have visions of bigger sugarplums dancing in my head. No, even though I loved our stay at BWV and would love to book our dream trip to WL or AKL, I don't mean that deluxe.....but a CSR dream or two has come dancing in my head from time to time. We stayed there for part of our November 2007 trip, and LOVED it......beautiful resort, refrigerator in our room, GREAT bus system, etc., etc., etc., AND they just renovated the rooms!!!! Yes, my lovelies, I keep thinking that maybe I need to call back and switch to CSR. The bus system there is SO nice, and the rooms......look really pretty from the renovations......and I am just killing myself from all this resortitis torture!!!! Would it be that much better than ASMO to put out $400 more for our trip??? Will we really even be at our resort enough to make a difference???? Can you help me out???? Calling in sick to life tomorrow---way too bad a case of RESORTITIS!!!!:sick:

Coming Up Next: PTR READER'S CHOICE!!!! Do you want the KC mini-TR, or the Recital breakdown, or the scoop on possible itineraries and ADRs?????? Let me know...you decide!!!

[disneylovinfamily]

I vote KC mini trip although the recitial sounds cute to. Who can resist a little hamming it up on stage? But I love mini trippies in trippies. In fact, I just did one in mine too about when we wnet to see thomas the Tank

[Lady Lallie]

I think you should upgrade to CSR! I think your little family have a more enjoyable resort experience is well worth it. :thumbsup2

I would REALLY like to see the recital pictures. :rolleyes1

[cherbear]

okay, I made it!! Such a great PTR!!

I had no idea you went through SO much on booking this trip. Glad you finally booked though!!!

Megs is SO SO sweet and I can't wait to see more pics of her on her trip this year! She SO deserves it! YOU and Tom SO deserve it!!!

Here's my input on the Pop thing:

Firstly, when they do promotions like the Free Dining, they reserve so many rooms at EACH resort for that particular promotion. Once that # of rooms has been booked FOR that promotion, that's it. So when they say Pop is "booked" what they mean is that the number of allotted rooms for the Free Dining plan has been booked. So don't fret!

When is the last time you called Pop? DH and I are thinking about doing Free Dining again this year (:eek::banana::banana::woohoo:) and when I checked out a couple different weeks yesterday it was still available. So maybe try again! :thumbsup2 Good luck!

[timandlesley]

Have you considered renting points, you can get them for like 11 dollars a point, when my parents came down and stayed at WL Villa's it equalled out to 130 per night!!! Just a though (don't mean to put tha tin your head and confuse you further);)
Lesley

[pooh'smate]

I think you should upgrade to CSR! I think your little family have a more enjoyable resort experience is well worth it. :thumbsup2

I would REALLY like to see the recital pictures. :rolleyes1

I was just thinking about this while I read your update. Whay can't you upgade to a mod.? I too want to see the recital pics but I want to read the KC trip too. Did you go to the zoo while you were there?

[Charleston Princess]

I do think you can get the buttons at the resort check-in, and I do think you can have the room decorated. :thumbsup2

I am going to vote for CSR -- it is a lovely resort -- and the bus situation is what throws me off of the values.

I vote for recital, then Kansas City!

[MinnieNurse]

1. I think you should upgrade to CSR. We stayed there in 2006 and loved it, I want to go back now that rooms were renovated.

2. While I loved our stay at Pop, the buses were the worst we have encountered at any resort we have stayed at.

3. I want to see pics of that little punkin at her recital. :dance3:

[kschafer]

If you post another update like your first one please let me know in advance...I used my last kleenex in my office tearing up with all your celebrations!

I can't give much advice about the resorts as I have only stayed at OKW but I think CSR is gorgeous!!! It would be my choice but I can also see the arguement for saving a few bucks for the celebrations (although if there is a risk of having to switch because of the buses, I would save the hassle and just do it now)

I vote for recital first!

[wigdoutdismom]

OK, I have a list....
1. I vote for recital to go first.
2. I think Lesley is right, look at renting points, one of my DISchat friends got them for $10 per point last night. If that doesn't work out......
3. Upgrade to CSR

[Roxychica7]

Lots of Celebrations!! Birthdays and Anniversary's! How exciting! :goodvibes

I agree with others, I've heard a lot of good things about CSR, BUT also many better things about renting points. Check out of the boards, even people have found points at $8 a point! Check that out first before your resort decisions change again! ;)

[cherbear]

silly me needs to ask...where do you go to see about renting points?

[kschafer]

Renting points is great if you are just wanting a good deal on a nice room but they wouldn't be able to get free dining with points. I believe free food is a much better deal in this case!

cherbear, there is board in the DVC section (on the Dis mainpage) for point rentals/transfers. It's really quite easy and I have heard of very few people encountering any problems with it (we had no problems at all) Sometimes you can pick up some really cheap points if you want a last minute trip. The further ahead you want to book, the more you will pay per point

[Trentmom]

Joining in:surfweb:

My good friend Cherbear sent me over :hug:

I am really enjoying your Pre-Trip.

You have a beautiful little girl and what a miracle she is.

Your posts are so upbeat and full of fun, laughter and ton of emotions...am loving it:wizard:


We stayed at All Star Movies, Toy Story Section, for my son first Trip in 06 and he loved it :love:, as did myself and husband.

But I can understand if you are used to having more space at a DVC resort, how you might be a bit uneasy.

Whatever you decide, I am sure you and your family will be happy, as hey, you will be in Disney :thumbsup2

[cherbear]

Renting points is great if you are just wanting a good deal on a nice room but they wouldn't be able to get free dining with points. I believe free food is a much better deal in this case!

cherbear, there is board in the DVC section (on the Dis mainpage) for point rentals/transfers. It's really quite easy and I have heard of very few people encountering any problems with it (we had no problems at all) Sometimes you can pick up some really cheap points if you want a last minute trip. The further ahead you want to book, the more you will pay per point

thanks! We were actually thinking about doing free dining in September ( I know, late in the game :sad2:-- DH sprung this idea on me on my bday last weekend!) and then I got an email offer for 42% off Wilderness Lodge and I got the idea that we could use that and just pay for the dining plan, but now reading about renting points I was thinking...:scratchin
I knew about renting points but had forgotten about that!

[cherbear]

Joining in:surfweb:

My good friend Cherbear sent me over :hug:

I am really enjoying your Pre-Trip.

You have a beautiful little girl and what a miracle she is.

Your posts are so upbeat and full of fun, laughter and ton of emotions...am loving it:wizard:


We stayed at All Star Movies, Toy Story Section, for my son first Trip in 06 and he loved it :love:, as did myself and husband.

But I can understand if you are used to having more space at a DVC resort, how you might be a bit uneasy.

Whatever you decide, I am sure you and your family will be happy, as hey, you will be in Disney :thumbsup2

Hey Kelly! Glad to see you here :goodvibes

[ILuvCrush]

Ok Loved the updates:goodvibes

here's my take.....

1. The 3 AS resorts DO share busses (except from MK) and ASMovies is the LAST stop:scared:

2. renting DVC points is a great idea... but like Katie said...it'll get you the room, but no free dining:sad1: If you go that route... make sure to rent off of someone with a pretty good sized post count and ask questions/get references!... I've read about scams (VERY few and far between) on those boards but they are pretty much ALWAYS posters that are in single digits/teens post counts... they swoop in and fleece someone... disappear... then do it again under another 'new' screen-name. At least until they get caught. I haven't heard about any recently... but it's better safe than sorry!!

3. I'd love to rent you points... but I'm using them all:laughing: maybe i should just buy more:rolleyes:

4. I'd upgrade to CSR:thumbsup2

5. I vote the DANCE RECITAL!! I have 2 little dancers myself;)


Paula

[micandminforever]

I vote for the recital video first then the mini TR.

My dh and I started out at CSR, but ended up at Pop, to save money for our 25th anniversary trip in 2010. I can take a value this year to get hopefully a deluxe next year.

Keep trying for Pop, there is always a chance. We stayed at Pop Sept 2007 and it did not seem crowded at all

[lmillercrew]

I vote for recital update too!!! We stayed at ASSP and really liked it. We were the first to get dropped off. From what I remember, we didn't share a bus. The Movies and Music shared, but we had our own bus to the parks. (if I remember correctly)
I congratulate you and your hubby on your 10 years! You are right, so many couples don't make it these days. And, the fact that you are HAPPY and married is another great thing too!
SO glad to follow along on another PTR of yours!

[MegansMom]

I vote KC mini trip although the recitial sounds cute to. Who can resist a little hamming it up on stage? But I love mini trippies in trippies. In fact, I just did one in mine too about when we wnet to see thomas the Tank

Thanks for the vote!!! I think the recital won out....but don't worry, the KC report will be quickly behind!!!

I think you should upgrade to CSR! I think your little family have a more enjoyable resort experience is well worth it.

I would REALLY like to see the recital pictures.

I DO TOO!!!! I really do love it there---the buses were EMPTY even during THANKSGIVING WEEK!!! It really is pretty, and I just feel it calling to me.....Tom on the otherhand is apparently gone deaf because I don't think he has heard the call yet!

Recital pictures coming right up!

okay, I made it!! Such a great PTR!!

I had no idea you went through SO much on booking this trip. Glad you finally booked though!!!

Megs is SO SO sweet and I can't wait to see more pics of her on her trip this year! She SO deserves it! YOU and Tom SO deserve it!!!

Here's my input on the Pop thing:

Firstly, when they do promotions like the Free Dining, they reserve so many rooms at EACH resort for that particular promotion. Once that # of rooms has been booked FOR that promotion, that's it. So when they say Pop is "booked" what they mean is that the number of allotted rooms for the Free Dining plan has been booked. So don't fret!

When is the last time you called Pop? DH and I are thinking about doing Free Dining again this year () and when I checked out a couple different weeks yesterday it was still available. So maybe try again! Good luck!

I AM SO GLAD YOU MADE IT!!!! I seriously was worried about you!!! I hadn't seen or heard from you in so long.....made me nervous!!! ;)

I checked online for Pop just the other day...I do need to call again though, but they were all booked. Will keep trying though!

Recital pictures are on their way!

Have you considered renting points, you can get them for like 11 dollars a point, when my parents came down and stayed at WL Villa's it equalled out to 130 per night!!! Just a though (don't mean to put tha tin your head and confuse you further)
Lesley

The first thing we thought of was renting points----that is how we have stayed DVC for the past three trips.....we have had no complaints about doing that so far at all!!! BUT, Free Dining actually came out cheaper and lured my accountant, budget-crunching hubby away to book at the value. We are in the process of getting ready to sell our house and build a new one, so he wanted to try to save more money to put towards all of that. BUT.........maybe I should crunch the numbers one more time!!! ;)

I was just thinking about this while I read your update. Whay can't you upgade to a mod.? I too want to see the recital pics but I want to read the KC trip too. Did you go to the zoo while you were there?

We could upgrade to a mod---CSR to be precise---but Tom is trying to save every penny possible towards our new home. But I think the bus thing is starting to make him question how important that $400 really is in the grand scheme of things!!!!

Recital pics coming up......and we DID go to the zoo (Shh...don't tell the others because that will be part of the mini-TR!!! ;))

I do think you can get the buttons at the resort check-in, and I do think you can have the room decorated.

I am going to vote for CSR -- it is a lovely resort -- and the bus situation is what throws me off of the values.

I vote for recital, then Kansas City!

Good to know about the buttons and the decorations!!!

I knew you would be enabling me to want CSR even MORE!!!! What to do, what to do?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?

Recital it is!!!!

1. I think you should upgrade to CSR. We stayed there in 2006 and loved it, I want to go back now that rooms were renovated.

2. While I loved our stay at Pop, the buses were the worst we have encountered at any resort we have stayed at.

3. I want to see pics of that little punkin at her recital.

1. I do too! We loved our time there in 2007---it was a split-stay with SSR, and we actual wished we could have stayed at CSR the entire time!

2. THIS is my biggest concern.........:scared:

3. Your wish is my command---recital pics coming right up!

If you post another update like your first one please let me know in advance...I used my last kleenex in my office tearing up with all your celebrations!

I can't give much advice about the resorts as I have only stayed at OKW but I think CSR is gorgeous!!! It would be my choice but I can also see the arguement for saving a few bucks for the celebrations (although if there is a risk of having to switch because of the buses, I would save the hassle and just do it now)

I vote for recital first!

I am going to have to remember to put out the red flag for the tissue alerts next time!!! :goodvibes

I love your philosophy on switching it now......I think I need to share this with Tom tonight!

Recital first of course!

OK, I have a list....
1. I vote for recital to go first.
2. I think Lesley is right, look at renting points, one of my DISchat friends got them for $10 per point last night. If that doesn't work out......
3. Upgrade to CSR

Okay, I have a list too!
1. OKAY...No problem!
2. That is what we have done in the past...we went with the cheaper Free Dining route, but I might just need to go back and recrunch some numbers!
3. I LOVE the way you think!!! :lmao:

Lots of Celebrations!! Birthdays and Anniversary's! How exciting!

I agree with others, I've heard a lot of good things about CSR, BUT also many better things about renting points. Check out of the boards, even people have found points at $8 a point! Check that out first before your resort decisions change again!

CSR is great...I know from first-hand experience, and renting is great as well....also from first-hand experience. I am thinking I need to go back and recrunch some numbers and let you all know how that might impact my decision.

silly me needs to ask...where do you go to see about renting points?

The DVC Rent/Trade board

Renting points is great if you are just wanting a good deal on a nice room but they wouldn't be able to get free dining with points. I believe free food is a much better deal in this case!

cherbear, there is board in the DVC section (on the Dis mainpage) for point rentals/transfers. It's really quite easy and I have heard of very few people encountering any problems with it (we had no problems at all) Sometimes you can pick up some really cheap points if you want a last minute trip. The further ahead you want to book, the more you will pay per point

I agree with everything you said....thanks for giving Cherbear the scoop!
Joining in

My good friend Cherbear sent me over

I am really enjoying your Pre-Trip.

You have a beautiful little girl and what a miracle she is.

Your posts are so upbeat and full of fun, laughter and ton of emotions...am loving it


We stayed at All Star Movies, Toy Story Section, for my son first Trip in 06 and he loved it , as did myself and husband.

But I can understand if you are used to having more space at a DVC resort, how you might be a bit uneasy.

Whatever you decide, I am sure you and your family will be happy, as hey, you will be in Disney

I am so glad you came over!!! Thanks for coming along for the ride---it promises to be fun, upbeat, and emotional FOR SURE!!! Please give me all the scoop on ASMO---especially what you remember about the bus situation....this is our biggest concern!

thanks! We were actually thinking about doing free dining in September ( I know, late in the game :sad2:-- DH sprung this idea on me on my bday last weekend!) and then I got an email offer for 42% off Wilderness Lodge and I got the idea that we could use that and just pay for the dining plan, but now reading about renting points I was thinking...:scratchin
I knew about renting points but had forgotten about that!

Don't you love how we can enable each other from one trip to the next!!!

Hey Kelly! Glad to see you here :goodvibes

I'm glad to see you here too Kelly!!! :yay:

Ok Loved the updates:goodvibes

here's my take.....

1. The 3 AS resorts DO share busses (except from MK) and ASMovies is the LAST stop:scared:

2. renting DVC points is a great idea... but like Katie said...it'll get you the room, but no free dining:sad1: If you go that route... make sure to rent off of someone with a pretty good sized post count and ask questions/get references!... I've read about scams (VERY few and far between) on those boards but they are pretty much ALWAYS posters that are in single digits/teens post counts... they swoop in and fleece someone... disappear... then do it again under another 'new' screen-name. At least until they get caught. I haven't heard about any recently... but it's better safe than sorry!!

3. I'd love to rent you points... but I'm using them all:laughing: maybe i should just buy more:rolleyes:

4. I'd upgrade to CSR:thumbsup2

5. I vote the DANCE RECITAL!! I have 2 little dancers myself;)


Paula

1. So on the way back from MK they each have their own bus??? Is that what that means???? I am assuming that since ASMO is the last spot, that the majority of the bus is FULL by the time it gets to us???? Is that correct???? This could be a big problem!

2. I've rented for each trip in the past, and although we have loved doing that, the Free Dining has been the big key fiscally on this trip....it would be hard having to go back and pay for it now.

3. We would be happy to rent points from you.....that is if you EVER have any you won't need!!! ;) :rotfl:

4. I want to SO badly......how can I convince Tom for good?!?!?!?!??!

5. Recital pics are on their way!

I vote for the recital video first then the mini TR.

My dh and I started out at CSR, but ended up at Pop, to save money for our 25th anniversary trip in 2010. I can take a value this year to get hopefully a deluxe next year.

Keep trying for Pop, there is always a chance. We stayed at Pop Sept 2007 and it did not seem crowded at all

Recital pics are on their way!!! Thanks for the info on Pop.....so many decisions, and SO little time!


I vote for recital update too!!! We stayed at ASSP and really liked it. We were the first to get dropped off. From what I remember, we didn't share a bus. The Movies and Music shared, but we had our own bus to the parks. (if I remember correctly)
I congratulate you and your hubby on your 10 years! You are right, so many couples don't make it these days. And, the fact that you are HAPPY and married is another great thing too!
SO glad to follow along on another PTR of yours!

The recital update is on its' way!!! I wonder why Sports had its' own bus, but the others had to share????? Hmmmmmm............

We are so excited to celebrate our anniversary.....so much more in love with each other than even on that day!!! :lovestruc

So glad to have you here!

[MegansMom]

Okay....three updates in ONE DAY!!!!! PHEW!!!!! But it needs to be done, because I have so much else to share with you!!!!

HERE IS MY RED FLAG WARNING/TISSUE ALERT: I promised that even if the update was slightly emotional and needing a Kleenex I would send this out....so here it is!!!!

As I have mentioned before, Megan was born very prematurely and subsequently, suffered many setbacks in her development early on and along the way that made me think that I would never get to enjoy my daughter's dance recital. I grew up as a ballerina, and enjoyed every minute of the 14 years that I studied dance. I longed for the day that my own daughter would be up on the stage, tapping or dancing away in a brightly colored tutu. Once we found out about all of the complications caused by Megan's delivery, those dreams quickly vanished. Her premature delivery set off a domino-effect of complications that affected her muscular development, motor skill development, and her sensitivity to sensory inputs. She started physical and occupational therapy when she was 12 months old, and we were quickly told that Megan may never walk on her own without some type of support. At 22 months she made her first steps, and continued to defy the odds on the rest of her development for the next three years. When Megan was about to turn five, we decided to opt out of her physical therapy and try to continue working on her muscular development through dance classes. We knew that there would definitely be things she could not do or do as well as the other girls, but we just wanted her to have her chance. The year started out quite rough---she complained of pain and discomfort every day after class---but she continued wanting to go back week after week. She quickly grew to love it, and began dancing all over the house, all around the store, everywhere she could. The wonderful thing about her progress in class is that she was never made to believe or made aware that she might not hop or twirl as well as the other girls...she has no idea that she is any different than the rest of the class. It definitely requires much more work from her, but she continually, and joyfully, goes through every step, every motion with as much effort and grace as she can muster. I have been such a proud Mommy so many times throughout this year as I have witnessed her progress in class. The recital, though, was going to be taking this to a whole new level. We really weren't sure if she would get out on an unknown stage and perform the same two dances she has practiced for so long all year. Her sensory issues could have easily caused her to be afraid of the loud volume, bright lights, and overabundance of unfamiliar faces in the crowd. We were very nervous, very afraid that even at the last moment she would become too overwhelmed to go on................................................ .................................................. .......................................but our fears and concerns were obliterated in one quick moment as I saw my lovely angel march out on to that stage, look right up at me (because I showed her where we would be sitting), and smiled the most dazzling, amazing, bright smile I have ever seen. She showed no fear, never once stopped in any hesitation, and danced her little heart out! She was AMAZING!!!! No, not every step looked like it was being performed by Ginger Rogers, but she did such a great job for a small wonder that was once told she would never walk alone. Tom held my hand so tightly that I knew he was just as proud and amazed as I was. I was so glad it was dark in that large auditorium, because I knew there were tears streaming down my face, and probably tucked in the corners of my husband's eyes as well. After each of her two amazing dances, and after the finale number as well, I clapped as loudly as I could and gave a loud WOOHOO for my baby that did what no one thought she could do. She is SO amazing!!!! We are so blessed!!!!


Unfortunately, we were not allowed to videotape or take photography during the show because they make a class video. But here are some pictures of her before and after the big event!!!

These are pictures at our home before the recital....here she is dressed in her outfit for her tap number---"The Ants Go Marching In." Love the antennae!!!

http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm19/megansmom1/090-1.jpg

http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm19/megansmom1/089-1.jpg


Here she is after the recital in her outfit for her ballet number, "Hippopotamus Rock." She loved the feather "foofoo" in her hair!

http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm19/megansmom1/091.jpg

http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm19/megansmom1/092-1.jpg

http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm19/megansmom1/093.jpg

http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm19/megansmom1/094.jpg

I apologize for the clarity and quality of those pictures---Tom took them, and he had the camera on the wrong setting....he usually doesn't take the pictures so still doesn't really know how it works.....but hopefully you can tell how cute she was!!!! :goodvibes

In the works for the next two updates---the KC trip, and some scoop on itineraries and ADRs!!!!

[Trentmom]

Trying to think back to our trip

We took the bus 2 -3 times a day, for 7 days....so between 14-21 times



Of those time, we only had to stand twice.

I really do not remember having any major issues with it

My son's favorite movie at the time was Toy Story 2 so he really loved it here :love:

Not to hijack your TR, but here are two pics from the resort:goodvibes


http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z180/Karenann50/Disney%20Trip%20May%202006/CampingatCoushatta7-07003.jpg

My mom, Me and my son

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i110/Trentmom/Disney%202006/IMG017.jpg

My son

[kschafer]

Thanks for the warning Jen! Good thing I am at home and not at my kleenex devoid office!

Megan looks so beautiful and happy! congrats to her, and you and Tom too for never giving up on her and always believing she would do it!

[disneylovinfamily]

what a sweetheart! She is an amazing little girl! I had tears in my eyes reading this update, you can hear your pride bursting off the page. She is lucky to have a mommy and daddy like you and your DH.

[Trentmom]

Sorry my one picture was so big..I Just resized it :goodvibes

[Trentmom]

Thanks for the kleenex warning

That beaming smile on her is awesome.

What an amazing girl she is :goodvibes

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, Jen! What an amazing little girl you have!!! Of course, I just boohooed through this last update! You have been blessed with a very determined fighter! She looks too cute in her costumes, and I bet she was just precious up there on stage!!! :hug:

[wigdoutdismom]

What a beautiful little girl you have! LOVED the pics in her recital costumes, any chance you could just record her doing her own performance for your DIS friends?

[ILuvCrush]

awwww I love the recital update and Megs is so adorable in her costumes!! She looks as proud as you are!!:hug:

[ILuvCrush]

1. So on the way back from MK they each have their own bus??? Is that what that means???? I am assuming that since ASMO is the last spot, that the majority of the bus is FULL by the time it gets to us???? Is that correct???? This could be a big problem!

2. I've rented for each trip in the past, and although we have loved doing that, the Free Dining has been the big key fiscally on this trip....it would be hard having to go back and pay for it now.

3. We would be happy to rent points from you.....that is if you EVER have any you won't need!!! ;) :rotfl:

4. I want to SO badly......how can I convince Tom for good?!?!?!?!??!

5. Recital pics are on their way!

I've stayed at Sports and Music. But not movies. In the mornings til 1030-11 there were tons of busses. Sometimes they'd go directly to Movies or Music, I assume this b/c they were empty ;) Sports (when i was there) did not have their own busses per se, but were often full so they skipped they other 2 resorts and went straight to the parks. Unlike POR where the busses continue the full loop of the resort (and you just felt bad cause the people waiting couldn't get on) when the busses got full... they headed out. It seemed like the bus depot did a pretty decent job getting lots of fresh busses directly into the other 2 resorts, bypassing sports if it kept filling up. Does that make any sense????

At the parks, only MK has seperate queues for each of the all star resorts. The other 3 parks (If I remember correctly) had just 1 shared queue for the return route.

On the plus side, since the ASresorts are very popular, there was often 2-3 busses showed up at a time at park close! So the wait for a bus was not any worse than POR or POP.



Does that help clarify things???

[Lady Lallie]

Oh man. I'm a little boo baby today after reading your update. Sniff Sniff. Megs looks just precious. I can't believe how much she has grown this year!

[redsox721]

Thanks for the happy tears. What great pictures of your little ballerina. Love the smile. How proud you must be of her. I am touched by her story and love hearing about all her accomplishments. She is truly an angel.

[moparop]

Yeah, that was a TOTAL tear jerker Jen!

I am sitting here proud as a peacock for your Megan - such an amazing triumph!

As for your resort-itis - I have to admit, last summer we had decided we were going to stay at ASMo and then opted for CBR. I don't regret it. So, if you need another enabler - I'm there for ya girl!!

[MegansMom]

Trying to think back to our trip

We took the bus 2 -3 times a day, for 7 days....so between 14-21 times



Of those time, we only had to stand twice.

I really do not remember having any major issues with it

My son's favorite movie at the time was Toy Story 2 so he really loved it here :love:

Not to hijack your TR, but here are two pics from the resort:goodvibes


http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z180/Karenann50/Disney%20Trip%20May%202006/CampingatCoushatta7-07003.jpg

My mom, Me and my son

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i110/Trentmom/Disney%202006/IMG017.jpg

My son

Thanks for the info!!! That helps so much!!!! I LOVE the pictures too---thanks for sharing!

Thanks for the warning Jen! Good thing I am at home and not at my kleenex devoid office!

Megan looks so beautiful and happy! congrats to her, and you and Tom too for never giving up on her and always believing she would do it!

I thought that would help prepare you all!!! I am glad I caught you at home so the tears can fall freely!!!

Thank you for the congrats! She was so happy and so proud.....she can't wait for her next recital!!!

what a sweetheart! She is an amazing little girl! I had tears in my eyes reading this update, you can hear your pride bursting off the page. She is lucky to have a mommy and daddy like you and your DH.

Thank you for your sweet words! I am truly proud!!! I used to be upset that I was only able to have one child, but I am so glad that I was blessed with the one I have!

Sorry my one picture was so big..I Just resized it :goodvibes

No problem!!! The pics were great!

Thanks for the kleenex warning

That beaming smile on her is awesome.

What an amazing girl she is :goodvibes

Thank you....I quite agree!!!!

Oh, Jen! What an amazing little girl you have!!! Of course, I just boohooed through this last update! You have been blessed with a very determined fighter! She looks too cute in her costumes, and I bet she was just precious up there on stage!!! :hug:

She was SO precious!!! Her face was just so happy and full of pride the entire time! I'm sorry to make you boohoo, but I am so happy to share our little story----I think it is quite amazing!

What a beautiful little girl you have! LOVED the pics in her recital costumes, any chance you could just record her doing her own performance for your DIS friends?

Thank you!! I will try to get her to do her dance on video for you....but I won't promise what you are going to get!!! Without the music, it will probably be quite amusing!

awwww I love the recital update and Megs is so adorable in her costumes!! She looks as proud as you are!!:hug:

She was really proud of herself!! She also LOVED the flowers everyone brought for her!

I've stayed at Sports and Music. But not movies. In the mornings til 1030-11 there were tons of busses. Sometimes they'd go directly to Movies or Music, I assume this b/c they were empty ;) Sports (when i was there) did not have their own busses per se, but were often full so they skipped they other 2 resorts and went straight to the parks. Unlike POR where the busses continue the full loop of the resort (and you just felt bad cause the people waiting couldn't get on) when the busses got full... they headed out. It seemed like the bus depot did a pretty decent job getting lots of fresh busses directly into the other 2 resorts, bypassing sports if it kept filling up. Does that make any sense????

At the parks, only MK has seperate queues for each of the all star resorts. The other 3 parks (If I remember correctly) had just 1 shared queue for the return route.

On the plus side, since the ASresorts are very popular, there was often 2-3 busses showed up at a time at park close! So the wait for a bus was not any worse than POR or POP.



Does that help clarify things???

WOW!!! That info helps out A LOT!!!! Calmed quite a bit of my worries!!! Thanks hon!

Oh man. I'm a little boo baby today after reading your update. Sniff Sniff. Megs looks just precious. I can't believe how much she has grown this year!

I wish I would have taken a close up picture of her face and hair---she looked so pretty with the make-up and her hair all curled!!! We are going to be in trouble in about 10 years when the boys start calling! She has gotten SO tall this year---there is almost nothing she can't ride at WDW now! :scared1: Where has my baby gone?!?!?!?!?

Thanks for the happy tears. What great pictures of your little ballerina. Love the smile. How proud you must be of her. I am touched by her story and love hearing about all her accomplishments. She is truly an angel.

Thank you so much! She is something---that is for sure! :thumbsup2

Yeah, that was a TOTAL tear jerker Jen!

I am sitting here proud as a peacock for your Megan - such an amazing triumph!

As for your resort-itis - I have to admit, last summer we had decided we were going to stay at ASMo and then opted for CBR. I don't regret it. So, if you need another enabler - I'm there for ya girl!!


Thanks for sharing in my pride and joy!

Thanks also for the help in the enabling department.....I am waffling back and forth so much I'm getting dizzy!

[siestakeys04]

I can't believe she is going to be six years old already. We are staying for the first time at a value all star music, so I hope the kids will enjoy it. I wonder how are the buses?

This is a surprise trip for the kids!! 13,9

[cherbear]

what a beautiful little dancer! Thank you SO much for the pictures and the story. I can see why you are SO PROUD! :flower3:

[MinnieNurse]

:sad::cloud9:

What a wonderful update. Your little princess looked adorable. I do not blame you for crying, I would have been a mess.

[MegansMom]

I can't believe she is going to be six years old already. We are staying for the first time at a value all star music, so I hope the kids will enjoy it. I wonder how are the buses?

This is a surprise trip for the kids!! 13,9

I can't believe that either!!! They have it marked on our reservation that we are there celebrating her 6th birthday---I know we are also celebrating our anniversary and my birthday, but hers is the most important---ANYWAY, and I am SO hoping that they do a little something special for her....like a balloon in her room or a card or something. I have never stayed value either, and the buses is what concerns me the most....here's to hoping!!! Read back through the past several pages, others have been giving me their two cents about the buses....hope it helps!

What a great surprise!

what a beautiful little dancer! Thank you SO much for the pictures and the story. I can see why you are SO PROUD! :flower3:

Thank you so much! I am surely one proud Mommy!

:sad::cloud9:

What a wonderful update. Your little princess looked adorable. I do not blame you for crying, I would have been a mess.

Thanks sweetie! I was truly an emotional mess.....so thankful for the dim lights. One of the groups danced to "Butterfly Kisses," and even though she wasn't in that group, I bawled like a baby!


Attention MeMom: I remembered today that you have stayed at ASMO, so I was wondering if you could oblige me with your thoughts about your experience there....as well as any pictures you might have that might give me some insight as to what it is like at ASMO....TIA dearie!!!

I hope you all are having a great Thursday!!! Today we get to celebrate my brother's birthday---he turns 35 today! Megan already has on her "party dress" to help celebrate......the girl knows how to PARTY!!!! :banana::cool1::yay::woohoo:

[MRYPPNS]

Jen- Your tiny dancer is just too cute for words!

As for the resort...I say upgrade to a mod!

[timandlesley]

Absolutely adorable, can't imagine how proud you were of her, what a major accomplishment!
Lesley

[If U Had Wings]

The recital pics are beautiful! She looks so thrilled.

[TarzansKat]

OH, hon, so many wonderful updates! You truly do have much to celebrate. :hug:

[CRSNDSNY]

Wow! She looks adorable in her dance costumes! She's a natural!

[MegansMom]

Jen- Your tiny dancer is just too cute for words!

As for the resort...I say upgrade to a mod!

Thanks Heidi!!! And the enabling continues!!! ;):lmao:

Absolutely adorable, can't imagine how proud you were of her, what a major accomplishment!
Lesley

Thank you Lesley!!! We were very proud parents that night!

The recital pics are beautiful! She looks so thrilled.

Thanks hon!!! She was so excited and revelled in the moment!

OH, hon, so many wonderful updates! You truly do have much to celebrate. :hug:

Thanks TK!!! I can't wait to get this party started!!! :banana:

Wow! She looks adorable in her dance costumes! She's a natural!

Thank you!!! She has been dancing all over the place since then---in fact, last night we all went to Joe's Crabshack to celebrate my brother's 35th birthday, and she actually got up and participated with the servers when they did their dance to the YMCA!!! It was SO cute!!! I think Tom took a picture of it on his phone, so I will have to download that and post it up here for you later! Speaking of pictures on the phone........I realized after I uploaded my pics from KC off of my camera that I was missing quite a bit....here they were actually taken with Tom's phone again! So tonight, I will download all the photos on the chip in his phone, and then post the KC TR later on this week once I have all the pictures uploaded that I need. Just a little nibble to chew on for you though......there was a celebrity sighting while we were there!!! :rolleyes1

NOW....just because the KC TR has been delayed, does not mean that I am not going to keep rolling on this PTR.....right now I am going to go finish my update for a lot of trip related issues/plans........stay tuned!

[PookieB]

You have been blessed with an angel! :cutie: Love the recital pics! You have so much to celebrate!

[MegansMom]

Due to the delay of the KC TR, we have now arrived to my favorite part---discussing our park plans and ADRs!!!! :cool1: I know that makes you all so happy.....I can see you smiling from here!!!

Our plans have actually already undergone many changes and alterations in the very short time that this trip has been booked. I'm not going to share all those scenarios and situations with you, but I am going to share a little about how we have gotten to the point where we are right now!

As is usually done once I book a trip to WDW, I search all the resources for the best days for the parks, crowd levels, and ADR options based upon that. We usually always do a base ticket, so it does not take long for me to discern which park we will hit each day, and subsequently, where we will eat.....for that is SUCH an important question!! :goodvibes So by the time we hit the road last Friday, I already had my skeleton chart created to share with my hubby while we were making the 8-hour drive to KC. Usually he listens, nods, and basically just makes a mental note of the food that he will get to consume while we are away. BUT this year was different!!!!!!!!!! I was not met with the usual quiet acceptance of my diligent work and plans, but actually commentary and input from the man that usually never cares! NOW, before you get the wrong idea, I was THRILLED to hear it! I have planned every single second and last detail of the three previous trips that we have taken, and it was refreshing for once to be given some input.....even if it was after all the planning. Miss Megan actually piped up too with a request for the one thing she really wanted to do on this trip....which I will share with you shortly. SO, after hearing all their input, I quickly tore out my notes from my handy dandy green notebook, and started over!!! (Didn't I have a fun ride out to KC!!!! :goodvibes) I had new things to consider that I never thought I would ever have to consider, so I was pumped up and excited!!! What were these new things, these suggestions you say?!?!?!!?!? Well, I'll tell you!

For those of you who have not been to WDW in September before, one of the biggest complications in planning our touring is the shortened park hours---some nights the parks are closing as early as 7 or 8pm! SO, you need to be smart and frugal with the planning so you can get the most "bang for your buck" as my lovely hubby would say. There is the MNSSHP to plan around as well, so it can cramp your touring style a bit. In my first plans, there were many nights that we would really be done with the parks so early that it would give us a LOT of time to relax back at the resort.....and I thought, "Wow, a relaxing WDW vacation!! Huh!" I thought my hubby would be so happy about all the relaxation time, but then he shocked me!!! He said, "The downtime is great, but what I really want to do is be in the parks---that is what we are there for, right??? We can relax at the pool all day and night here at home." I explained to him that I didn't set out to do that, but with only the base ticket option and the realization of how long we would really be in each park, I knew there would be days that we would be done touring at some of them very early on, and would have the rest of the day to relax. And then he proceeded to shock me again---he said, "Okay, well then we are going to need to upgrade to a Parkhopper ticket so that we can hop all over and get the most park time possible!" That's right.....that is when my jaw hit the ground, and I fell over as far as I could buckled in my seat---shocked doesn't even begin to express my thoughts at that moment. Did you notice he said NEED....like there is no way else we could possibly go this year without it......yeah, I know....unbelievable, huh!??!?!?! I then shrieked a little bit---:yay:---and the gears in my head started spinning out of control thinking about all the possibilities that would now be available to us!!! We have never hopped before because we never felt it would be advantageous to us with a little one, but now I think we know each park well enough, know what we like to see and what we don't, and know Megan's stamina is much better that we can handle it! I know there will still be days that we will not hop, but it will be so nice to have it available on the days that we can use it!

So here is a rough draft of our park plans for the time being. There is one thing you should know, we all LOVE MK!!!! SO, that is why we will be there so often. It by FAR is our favorite, and I really don't see it ever losing that title---we are just MK addicts!!!

Sunday 9/20--Tom and Megs will pick me up from the Women's Weekend (I'll explain about that at some point) around 1 or 2pm, and we will begin our drive to WDW. We will drive as long as we can this night---probably until 1 or 2am. We will then stop and check-in to a hotel somewhere near the GA/FL border. I am realistically thinking we can get at least 9-10 hours of good driving time done on this day. YEAH!

Monday 9/21--We will wake up early---yes I know we will be going to bed late, but we will be too excited to sleep---and continue our trip southbound to the Mouse's House. I am hoping that we have less than 4 more hours to drive, and hopefully make it there no later than noon! We will check-in, and then head to...................DHS!!!! They have EMH in the evening until 10pm, and since we are all about getting the most "bang for our buck," we will be heading there that night!

Tuesday 9/22--We will start out early at EPCOT because it opens early for AM EMH, and spend about half the day there, then hop over to MK to enjoy the rest of the evening. (YEAH, our first steps on MAIN STREET!)

Wednesday 9/23--We will start early at MK, and finish the day at EPCOT for EMH in the evening until midnight!

Thursday 9/24--We will start early (AM EMH) and spend an entire glorious day at the MK!!!! (8am-9pm!) Oh how we love it there!!!

Friday 9/25--We will start out early at AK, and hop over to DHS at some point in the evening so we can make it to FANTASMIC at 8pm!!!! (Megan ACTUALLY wants to see it---yeah, I know, shocking---considering how scared of it she used to be!)

Saturday 9/26--I am leaving the morning open as to which park we will go to---wherever we feel we need to go back and see, but we will hop over to MK for the evening and stay until closing at 10pm!

Sunday 9/27--We will start at rope drop at MK and stay all day to enjoy PM EMH!!! (9am-11pm!)

Monday 9/28--we will have a relaxing morning, and then by the afternoon will depart and begin our journey homeward! :sad1:

Now, there will be pool time and probably naps thrown in here and there along the way, but I just wanted to share with you the framework for where we will be and when for each day. I tried to take advantage of EMH as much as I could this trip---normally we avoid them---just because we want as much time in the parks as possible......some of our hops are to parks that will probably be more uncrowded, but I am not as concerned about the crowds---it is September (typically low crowds anyway), and I married a Fastpass Master (Tom REALLY knows how to make the most of that system) so I know we will be okay regardless!

So that is the park schedule.......which brings me to our corresponding ADR Hopefuls!!!!! Now before I even started to select or think about ressies, Tom and Megan put in their two cents for the first time ever in regards to where they wanted to eat......yeah, I know.....SHOCKING AGAIN!!! But I was so glad to hear about what and where they wanted to eat. They gave me guidelines in choosing our ressies:

1. Tom and Megs both really like eating at character meals because it gives us the opportunity to see the characters without cutting into our ever-important park time.

2. Tom likes to eat as often as possible inside the parks because it saves on so much travel and transfer time to the hotels outside of them. (I NEVER knew this! You learn something new everyday!)

3. We ALL like having ressies before the park opens, or right near close to give us quiet, alone moments in the parks.

4. The ONLY thing Megan has requested to do on this trip is eat at the castle with the princesses for her birthday. (Hmmmmm.........)

5. We all like having dinner experiences---meaning getting a little something more than just dinner when we eat---a little more "bang for our buck" shall we say?!!?!??! We like to have genuine experiences that we can only get at WDW!

SO, taking all that in consideration, here is our ADR Hopefuls.....so far!

Monday 9/21--We may do lunch on the road really quick, so the only meal at WDW will be CS meal at DHS for dinner---I would love to hear about your favorites, but I am pretty sure my sweet angel will want to go eat with her Buzz and Woody at Pizza Planet.....and the princess usually gets what she wants!!! ;)

Tuesday 9/22--I pack breakfast goodies, so we will snack on some of those on the bus to EP, enjoy CS at EP for lunch (probably Sunshine Seasons---we just can't pull ourselves away from that place), and I am hoping to nab a dinner ressie for CHEF MICKEY'S for after 7pm. MK closes at 7 that night for MNSSHP, so we will stay until then, and then hop on the monorail to take us to see MICKEY!!!!

Wednesday 9/23--I am hoping for an early 8am ressie at CRYSTAL PALACE for breakfast to get us into the park before opening....please keep your fingers crossed for us on that one...I am nervous that we won't get it!!! CS at MK for lunch (probably at Pinocchio's because Tom loves the little cheesecake you get there), and then hopping over to EP in the evening and dinner at the CORAL REEF before enjoying PM EMH at EP!!! We wanted to try something new here---we will miss our LeCellier meal, but we thought Megs would LOVE the aquarium view! I'm just not sure what time to schedule dinner.....suggestions???? Remember that EP is open until midnight!!!

Thursday 9/24--Once again breakfast on the bus, CS in MK for lunch (maybe Columbia Harbour House or Cosmic Ray's), and then a late dinner ressie at LIBERTY TREE TAVERN close to close. We are hoping to be able to eat, and then leave walking down an empty Main Street---AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!

Friday 9/25--Hoping to nab an early 8am ressie at Tusker House for breakfast at AK, CS at AK for lunch (probably Flame Tree Barbecue), and dinner at .......????????????? Here is the one spot I am stuck on where to book. AK has PM EMH until 8pm this day, but we know we will be hopping over to DHS at some point so that we can go see Fantasmic at 8pm. I know we will have to go to some hotel to exchange buses so that we can get to DHS, but I don't know where to go????? I would love to head up to a MK resort and eat at one of my faves there, but thought that might be too far and out of the way to travel just to eat and get back to DHS. I am taking ANY and ALL suggestions on what we should do on this day-----PLEASE HELP SOON, I only have 4 days until my ADR date!!!

Saturday 9/26--Breakfast on the bus to wherever we decide to roam, CS in whichever we park we are at that time, and then we are hopping over to MK for the evening, so I am hoping to nab an early dinner ressie for TONY'S RESTAURANT so that our evening is free to ride rides until 10pm!

Sunday 9/27--Breakfast on the bus to MK, and (please dear God let this work) lunch ressies at CINDERELLA'S ROYAL TABLE to celebrate my baby's birthday (2 days early) the way she wants to celebrate!!! I have NEVER booked for Cindy's before, and I am nervous to the point that it makes me sweat and break out into hives everytime I have to think about trying to book it. I don't care WHAT time our ressie is for lunch, but we want LUNCH. Everyone please keep your fingers and toes crossed for us that this works out okay!!! We will finish our evening with dinner at the CS of our choice at MK---whereever we haven't hit yet--and enjoy PM EMH until 11pm!!!

So that is our plans for right now!!!! I need help, input, and LOTS of pixie dust that it all works out okay!!!!

Okay, now is the time that you share your input and feedback, dining reviews, tips for getting ressies, etc. Enjoy gnawing over all these details!!!! :thumbsup2

[MegansMom]

You have been blessed with an angel! :cutie: Love the recital pics! You have so much to celebrate!


Thank you so much!!! Can you see why our party is going to be so big?!?!?!?! :banana::cool1::woohoo::dance3:

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, all the plans and ADRs are so exciting, Jen! I love that Tom thinks park hoppers are a neccesity! That doubles the fun of trip planning, doesn't it?

All of your ADR choices look great -- I am hungry just reading about them! I am not sure what I would do about your Tusker House/Flame Tree/dinner day...but just so you know there are direct park buses from each of the parks -- so you will be able to board a bus bound for DHS at AK. Or you could head over to AKL for dinner at either the Mara (their food was so good) or Boma, and then head over to DHS. Or you could head to the Beach Club and eat at Beaches and Cream, and take a boat from there to DHS. That might be fun...

[MRYPPNS]

Or you could head to the Beach Club and eat at Beaches and Cream, and take a boat from there to DHS. That might be fun...

I second that idea! YUM-O!

[Trentmom]

I second that idea! YUM-O!

and I Third that idea

We did that last year and loved it.

Simple and tasty food and ice cream..what more can you ask for :thumbsup2

[Lady Lallie]

I think all of your plans look great.

Calm down about CRT, I am sure you will be able to get a reservation there, even if you have to do it on a different day. Maybe you should book that one first when you call. :thumbsup2

[2xcited2sleep]

You weren't kidding about the tissue alert! What an amazing story and an amazing little girl you have. You all have SO much to celebrate! :goodvibes

I think your plans and ADRs look fantastic! :yay::yay:

[micandminforever]

I made my ADR's today and got everything I wanted at the times I wanted, by using the online Dining at 6:00am. You get a jump on the phone callers by an hour. I would recommend the online. There is a sticky on the restaurant board to give you the steps, and alot of advice. Check it out before making ADR's. Good luck on the CRT ADR.

[lmillercrew]

You have a way with words sister! The story of Megan and your feelings for her warmed my heart! She is just a beautiful little miracle! You and Tom are so blessed, and I know I don't need to tell you guys that.
I'm glad someone cleared up the AllStar bus issue. We were there two years ago, and I can't remember that far back, isn't that sad???
Your plans are looking fantastic, and you have picked out some restaraunts that I wanted to try this year, that didn't come to fruition. You'll have to let us know how Tony's is. I wanted to try that one out.
You could do a late lunch at Cindy's castle, and then get a light dinner, since you're doing late EMH's. We've done that before and it works great for us.
My sister just made her ADR's for Sept and she didn't have too many issues. She was able to get her Crystal Palace breakfast, before park opening, no prob.
I'm so happy that Tom is helping with the planning this time around. It's nice to be able to bounce back ideas off of someone else. :)

[heartofdisney]

Hi Jenn,
I am a long time lurker,as I like to read trip reports at times,but don't often comment on them.Anyway,I read your trip report last year,and enjoyed it,so when I was reading another favorite trip report of mine(timandlesly's) and saw you had a new trip report going,I decided to hop on over here and check it out.
Your precious Megan is an adorable little girl,and seeing her in her dance costumes brought back sweet memories to me,as both my daughters danced from little on up.
You have every right to be proud of your daughter.She has come through a lot .My oldest daughter doesn't have the same problems as Megan,but she overcame others,and last month she just graduated college,and I was a complete soggy mess because I couldn't believe we had reached that point!
Thank you for entertaining me with your trip report.I will be going to Disney at the end of August and I can't wait to go,so it is nice to pass the time reading about other peoples trip plans,and picking up little tidbits of imfo and advice.I love the Dis!

[CRSNDSNY]

Your preliminary plans are right on target! We can start making our ADRs at the beginning of next week arleady! Yeah!!!

My preliminary plans are outlined on my TR website. (http://staff.kings.edu/mfpriebe/DisneySept09/index.htm)

...but I'll be working on finalizing them today with the help of TGM. :)

I still cannot get over the fact that our trips are identical dates!

[moparop]

I was wondering about Beaches n Cream too! I hear that is always fun. Of course, with them not taking ADRs, it could really put into your time, depending on when you got there.

You could hop early and do a meal at Sci Fi?

[jenjolt]

Jen you have some great plans!! YAY!!! YOu want to make my ADRs for me too!!! You guys are going to have a great trip!!! You really are making the most of your time, I'm dealing with the same thing trying to make sure I get as much park time as possible so us ladies have a lot of late night meals so we can enjoy the parks!! Can't wait to hear more about your plans!

[TarzansKat]

Hon, the plans look great.

And listen, don't sweat it about Cindy's. Here's a ha ha little story for you. Mom and Nana always go in May. And we also happened to be going as a family that September. I believe it was actually our first trip with my FIL, and it was lovely. Anyway, as a fluke, Mom thought she would stop by the podium at the Royal Table in May and see if they had any open ressies for September.

They did.

For our party of 5. Mom laid that big surprise on me on Mother's Day that year, and what a treat.

So honestly, I know it books up fast, and I know it's really popular, but if you have the patience, I'm sure you can get your little princess in. :thumbsup2

[disneylovinfamily]

Beaches and cream is YUMMY! We ate there a few trips ago on our 1st day. We got burgers and then shared the kitchen sink! It was an awesome experience!

[cherbear]

that last update made me HUNGRY!!

For CRT, just be VERY persistent, you can do it!!

[MegansMom]

Oh, all the plans and ADRs are so exciting, Jen! I love that Tom thinks park hoppers are a neccesity! That doubles the fun of trip planning, doesn't it?

All of your ADR choices look great -- I am hungry just reading about them! I am not sure what I would do about your Tusker House/Flame Tree/dinner day...but just so you know there are direct park buses from each of the parks -- so you will be able to board a bus bound for DHS at AK. Or you could head over to AKL for dinner at either the Mara (their food was so good) or Boma, and then head over to DHS. Or you could head to the Beach Club and eat at Beaches and Cream, and take a boat from there to DHS. That might be fun...


Do the direct buses to the other parks pick up by the hotel buses, because I don't remember them!!! I am thinking we will be taking a break now in the middle of that day, so I am not too concerned, but just in case I need one, I'll know they are there!!!! We have solved the TS problem for this night.....check out the update that is coming soon!

I second that idea! YUM-O!

Ice cream is yummy anytime!!! ;)

and I Third that idea

We did that last year and loved it.

Simple and tasty food and ice cream..what more can you ask for :thumbsup2

I could eat like that every night!!!

I think all of your plans look great.

Calm down about CRT, I am sure you will be able to get a reservation there, even if you have to do it on a different day. Maybe you should book that one first when you call. :thumbsup2

I'm glad the plans look good.....I just hope they turn out for us!!!!

You weren't kidding about the tissue alert! What an amazing story and an amazing little girl you have. You all have SO much to celebrate! :goodvibes

I think your plans and ADRs look fantastic! :yay::yay:

Thanks sweetie!!! Tomorrow is the big ADR day!!!

I made my ADR's today and got everything I wanted at the times I wanted, by using the online Dining at 6:00am. You get a jump on the phone callers by an hour. I would recommend the online. There is a sticky on the restaurant board to give you the steps, and alot of advice. Check it out before making ADR's. Good luck on the CRT ADR.

Thanks for the info about the online ressies.....I think this is what I am going to do!

You have a way with words sister! The story of Megan and your feelings for her warmed my heart! She is just a beautiful little miracle! You and Tom are so blessed, and I know I don't need to tell you guys that.
I'm glad someone cleared up the AllStar bus issue. We were there two years ago, and I can't remember that far back, isn't that sad???
Your plans are looking fantastic, and you have picked out some restaraunts that I wanted to try this year, that didn't come to fruition. You'll have to let us know how Tony's is. I wanted to try that one out.
You could do a late lunch at Cindy's castle, and then get a light dinner, since you're doing late EMH's. We've done that before and it works great for us.
My sister just made her ADR's for Sept and she didn't have too many issues. She was able to get her Crystal Palace breakfast, before park opening, no prob.
I'm so happy that Tom is helping with the planning this time around. It's nice to be able to bounce back ideas off of someone else. :)

I'm glad your sister was able to get her ADRs.....makes me feel hopeful!!!

Hi Jenn,
I am a long time lurker,as I like to read trip reports at times,but don't often comment on them.Anyway,I read your trip report last year,and enjoyed it,so when I was reading another favorite trip report of mine(timandlesly's) and saw you had a new trip report going,I decided to hop on over here and check it out.
Your precious Megan is an adorable little girl,and seeing her in her dance costumes brought back sweet memories to me,as both my daughters danced from little on up.
You have every right to be proud of your daughter.She has come through a lot .My oldest daughter doesn't have the same problems as Megan,but she overcame others,and last month she just graduated college,and I was a complete soggy mess because I couldn't believe we had reached that point!
Thank you for entertaining me with your trip report.I will be going to Disney at the end of August and I can't wait to go,so it is nice to pass the time reading about other peoples trip plans,and picking up little tidbits of imfo and advice.I love the Dis!

I feel so honored to have you back for another year of reading along, and even happier that you came out of lurkdom to say "hey!" Your words were so kind!! :hug: I am glad that I can help you pass the time until your wonderful trip!!! ENJOY!

Your preliminary plans are right on target! We can start making our ADRs at the beginning of next week arleady! Yeah!!!

My preliminary plans are outlined on my TR website. (http://staff.kings.edu/mfpriebe/DisneySept09/index.htm)

...but I'll be working on finalizing them today with the help of TGM. :)

I still cannot get over the fact that our trips are identical dates!

Your plans looked great!!! I can't wait for tomorrow to be over with!!! Here's a wish for pixie dust for both of us that we get everything we want!!!! :wizard:

I was wondering about Beaches n Cream too! I hear that is always fun. Of course, with them not taking ADRs, it could really put into your time, depending on when you got there.

You could hop early and do a meal at Sci Fi?

Hmmmmmm.........what an idea!?!??!?!?!!? :rolleyes1

Jen you have some great plans!! YAY!!! YOu want to make my ADRs for me too!!! You guys are going to have a great trip!!! You really are making the most of your time, I'm dealing with the same thing trying to make sure I get as much park time as possible so us ladies have a lot of late night meals so we can enjoy the parks!! Can't wait to hear more about your plans!

I would love to make your ADRs for you.....that is if it didn't FREAK me out so much doing mine alone....I'm nervous for tomorrow!!!! I'm hoping I get what I want!

Hon, the plans look great.

And listen, don't sweat it about Cindy's. Here's a ha ha little story for you. Mom and Nana always go in May. And we also happened to be going as a family that September. I believe it was actually our first trip with my FIL, and it was lovely. Anyway, as a fluke, Mom thought she would stop by the podium at the Royal Table in May and see if they had any open ressies for September.

They did.

For our party of 5. Mom laid that big surprise on me on Mother's Day that year, and what a treat.

So honestly, I know it books up fast, and I know it's really popular, but if you have the patience, I'm sure you can get your little princess in. :thumbsup2

Thanks sweetie!!!! Here's to hoping that a little persistence will pay off!

Beaches and cream is YUMMY! We ate there a few trips ago on our 1st day. We got burgers and then shared the kitchen sink! It was an awesome experience!

That sounds so good right now.....making me SO hungry!

that last update made me HUNGRY!!

For CRT, just be VERY persistent, you can do it!!

I know....I can't wait until I no longer need to look at ADRs, menus, etc.---then I won't be so darn hungry!!!! :goodvibes


UPDATE ON THE WAY!!!!

[Roxychica7]

Beaches and Cream, definitely!! And if you're worried about time, you can always get a milkshake or sundae to go! :thumbsup2 Although, Sci Fi is very cool too. Megs would LOVE the big screen and old time movies!! We love it!

So many yummy ADR's! I can't believe you make your reservations so soon! The time before your trip is going to fly by! I have noticed the same thing about Dbf, trying to plan for Gnomefest, he is now remembering what names of restaurants are and what parks they're located at and has input about duplicates that we've already eaten at that he wants to do again. Before, I used to get things like, "Where is the Jurassic Park ride at again? MGM?" "No honey..." :rotfl:

Btw, Megs is a totally cutie with her recital pics! :goodvibes

[MegansMom]

Happy Monday all my lovely PTR readers!!!! Sorry I have been "quiet" this weekend, but I had to celebrate Father's Day ALL WEEKEND LONG!!!!!! SO, I was quite busy, and away from the computer for the entire duration of the weekend!!! BUT NOW I'M BACK!!!!!!

This week is a GREAT week!!!!!!! Do you want to know why??!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!??!




TOMORROW IS 90 DAYS UNTIL DISNEY!!!!! ADR DAY BABY!!!! :cool1::woohoo::dance3: I think it is becoming as sacred a holiday as Christmas around here!!! I am very excited that we are already at that point, but let me tell you, my overactive mind is driving me CRAZY!!!! I am getting so nervous about it all, I can barely eat!!!! I have been reading as much info as I possibly can about the new online system, I have test-run it, called the dining number and asked a zillion questions.......you would think I was buying a home...not just making simple dining reservations----but I just want to get what we want!!!!!! I am nervous that the Free Dining promo is going to create an overabundance of people who have already called and made ressies for the times and places we want!!!! Usually, I am SO much more laid back about the whole dining thing, but I want this year to be PERFECT!!!! (Or as close to it as possible!!!!) SO, I'm hoping all of you will be wishing me a GREAT big dose of pixie dust tomorrow morning that all goes well!!!!

And on that note:

We did finally decide where to eat the evening of the AK/DHS day......and the winner is................................................ .................................................. ......................Sci-Fi Drive-In DINER!!!!!!

Now, I know what everyone says about that place in reference to the food, and I'm just NOT going to let that get to me. We aren't going here for the food.....Tom thought that he and Megs would get a kick out of the whole car thing, so that is our motivation.....that, and the fact that it is in DHS so we will be ready to hit Fantasmic afterwards. A couple questions though for those who have tried this place:

1. Can I get a milkshake as my non-alcoholic beverage with my meal on the dining plan?

2. What---if anything---would you recommend for an entree? For a dessert???

3. Can I request a car when making the reservation?

So that solves our big dilemma on that day!!! YEAH!!!

I also wanted to share a funny sidenote with you all:

I was going over the agenda and ADR plans that I shared with you all with Tom and Megan the other day, and they were both generally pleased.....except for one thing! Now that we are getting the Parkhoppers (which Tom agrees will be beneficial to have extra hours), he is worried about his Fastpass Mastery skills. See, during the June 2008 trip, Tom became quite skillful in the Fastpass department....he would study the layout of where we were and what time our next FP would be available, and he would run around collecting FP for us all day.....we never really waited in any lines because of it!!! BUT, now he is worried that he won't be able to be as successful with this because we won't be in the same park at night!!!!!!! :scared1: Seriously, can I make this guy happy!?!?!?!?!?! ;);) Does anyone who has used PHs before and FPs have any recommendations or advice I can give him so that I can once again make him a happy boy about the PHs?!?!?!?!? I would GREATLY appreciate it!


Okay, I'm off for right now to practice up for tomorrow.....may be updating again later today....you just NEVER know!!!!

[Roxychica7]

[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
YAY! You're going to love Sci-Fi!

Let me see...
1) I believe that you can order a milkshake as your drink. I have never gotten one, but they're supposed to be really good
2) They're burgers are awesome, I've heard their ribs are pretty good, nothing special but kinda like what you'd get at Chili's or equivalent. Burgers aren't on the menu for dinner, but you can request them, usually this is the safest bet! As for desserts, I've heard they've changed the menu since we went, but Dbf liked the apple crumble and they're supposed to have an awesome peanut butter chocolate thingy now.
3 I don't think you can request a car, it's usually first available when you check in, if they don't have any, you can just wait until one becomes available. But we have NEVER had a problem getting a car and I think we've eaten there 3 times

[Trentmom]

Good luck tomorrow :wizard:


Are you callin or doing it online?

If you call, then I would open up online website at the same time.

While on hold, see if you can get any of what you want on your own.

Might speed up the process a bit for you

I think I heard you can get online at 6am to make your adrs...get a jumpstart on people calling at 7am :thumbsup2

[kschafer]

I have read a couple great reviews of Sci-Fi recently.

Check out Alan Renfroe's TR:
part I - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.ph...&postcount=316
part II - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.ph...&postcount=317

And Morgy827:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=32224269#post32224269

they both loved the food and atmosphere there but recommend that you stick with the basics

[trixiequilts]

Yay :yay: for getting everything planned out! I'll shoot some pixie dust your way promptly at 6 a.m. tomorrow! pixiedust: To be honest, I'm a little excitedly nervous for you! Not because I don't think you can handle it or because I don't think you'll get what you want...just because I'm so hoping everything will be perfect!

And I'm anxious to hear how the online ressie systems works out. :thumbsup2

You go girl!!! :woohoo:

[moparop]

I haven't been to Sci-Fi in years, but it was a lot of fun to eat in cars. I do think the shakes are non alcoholic beverages, but I do not know about what's good on the menu. Lots of people rave about the burgers and onion rings, but are those available at night? I dunno!

I hope the ADR game goes well. Wishing you plenty of pixie dust!

[MegansMom]

Beaches and Cream, definitely!! And if you're worried about time, you can always get a milkshake or sundae to go! :thumbsup2 Although, Sci Fi is very cool too. Megs would LOVE the big screen and old time movies!! We love it!

So many yummy ADR's! I can't believe you make your reservations so soon! The time before your trip is going to fly by! I have noticed the same thing about Dbf, trying to plan for Gnomefest, he is now remembering what names of restaurants are and what parks they're located at and has input about duplicates that we've already eaten at that he wants to do again. Before, I used to get things like, "Where is the Jurassic Park ride at again? MGM?" "No honey..." :rotfl:

Btw, Megs is a totally cutie with her recital pics! :goodvibes

Thanks for the tip about Sci Fi!!! ;)

I agree about time flying by.....in a way, I need it to SLOW DOWN just a bit so I can get everything done, and enjoy it all the more!!!!

YAY! You're going to love Sci-Fi!

Let me see...
1) I believe that you can order a milkshake as your drink. I have never gotten one, but they're supposed to be really good
2) They're burgers are awesome, I've heard their ribs are pretty good, nothing special but kinda like what you'd get at Chili's or equivalent. Burgers aren't on the menu for dinner, but you can request them, usually this is the safest bet! As for desserts, I've heard they've changed the menu since we went, but Dbf liked the apple crumble and they're supposed to have an awesome peanut butter chocolate thingy now.
3 I don't think you can request a car, it's usually first available when you check in, if they don't have any, you can just wait until one becomes available. But we have NEVER had a problem getting a car and I think we've eaten there 3 times

Thanks for the info!!!! I am not too worried about this one....I think it will be fun!!!

Good luck tomorrow :wizard:


Are you callin or doing it online?

If you call, then I would open up online website at the same time.

While on hold, see if you can get any of what you want on your own.

Might speed up the process a bit for you

I think I heard you can get online at 6am to make your adrs...get a jumpstart on people calling at 7am :thumbsup2

I think I am going to try online.....wish me luck on that!!! ;)

I will make sure to update you all as soon as I am done.....I hope I have GOOD news!

I have read a couple great reviews of Sci-Fi recently.

Check out Alan Renfroe's TR:
part I - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.ph...&postcount=316
part II - http://www.disboards.com/showpost.ph...&postcount=317

And Morgy827:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=32224269#post32224269

they both loved the food and atmosphere there but recommend that you stick with the basics

I'm going to have to read those.....right now!!!! ;)

Yay :yay: for getting everything planned out! I'll shoot some pixie dust your way promptly at 6 a.m. tomorrow! pixiedust: To be honest, I'm a little excitedly nervous for you! Not because I don't think you can handle it or because I don't think you'll get what you want...just because I'm so hoping everything will be perfect!

And I'm anxious to hear how the online ressie systems works out. :thumbsup2

You go girl!!! :woohoo:

Thanks for all the support!!! I am SO hoping the "dust" is with me tomorrow!!!! I will be up early, so I will make sure you have something to start your day off with!!!!

I haven't been to Sci-Fi in years, but it was a lot of fun to eat in cars. I do think the shakes are non alcoholic beverages, but I do not know about what's good on the menu. Lots of people rave about the burgers and onion rings, but are those available at night? I dunno!

I hope the ADR game goes well. Wishing you plenty of pixie dust!

Thanks so much......I'll take all the pixie dust I can get!

[wigdoutdismom]

Good luck tomorrow! I can't wait to hear what you all think of Sci Fi, we ate there in 07 and it was really fun, we didn't request a car, not sure you can do that. I do hear it's quite popular right now, so I hope you get it! :goodvibes

[MegansMom]

Thanks WIGD!!!! I am hoping it all goes "according to my plan!!!!" ;)

[TarzansKat]

Dude! I'm so glad you're going to Sci Fi! And it seems like you and I are going for the same reasons. Because it's going to be fun! :thumbsup2

[Charleston Princess]

We loved Sci-Fi! You are going to have a BLAST there!!!

[MegansMom]

Dude! I'm so glad you're going to Sci Fi! And it seems like you and I are going for the same reasons. Because it's going to be fun! :thumbsup2

I saw some neat pictures from another thread today that looked so COOL!!! I think it will be a blast.....we are dining with a five...almost six year old....we don't expect good cuisine!!!! :rotfl:

We loved Sci-Fi! You are going to have a BLAST there!!!

What pray tell did you all eat while you were there?!?!?!?!?! Give me the full scoop! I think I might actually move this to our first night at WDW...our arrival day. Then on the AK day, we would have breakfast at Tusker house, and two CS for the rest of the day!

[Charleston Princess]

What pray tell did you all eat while you were there?!?!?!?!?! Give me the full scoop! I think I might actually move this to our first night at WDW...our arrival day. Then on the AK day, we would have breakfast at Tusker house, and two CS for the rest of the day!

Let's see if I can remember -- it was 2007 so my memory may be a bit sketchy. We had an order of onion rings for an appetizer, Charles had a burger, and I had a chicken sandwich. The kids had burgers. I think we all had ice cream for dessert. I thought the food was good, honestly.

[moparop]

Well -- how did it go??

What's the ADR line up like!!! I have to live vicariously through you today!

[pooh'smate]

Just dropping by to say hi and see how making your adrs went.

[wigdoutdismom]

I'm sure you are typing an update at this very moment!

[MegansMom]

Well -- how did it go??

What's the ADR line up like!!! I have to live vicariously through you today!

Just dropping by to say hi and see how making your adrs went.

I'm sure you are typing an update at this very moment!

Thanks for checking on me.....sorry it took MUCH longer to get you this update than I had hoped.....you'll see why!!!!

Happy ADR DAY everyone!!!! I wish this holiday had its' own festive carol to go with it, but alas, one has not been written yet!!! ;)

I was hoping to have this update to you much earlier than now, but some things did not go as planned, as so therefore, the prolonged wait!!! I will get to all of that in due time, but let's start at the very beginning, shall we????

Yesterday I was very busy making charts/spreadsheets/etc. preparing myself for the big extravaganza today. I familiarized myself with the online booking, because I thought the extra hour jumpstart might help out......I am pretty darn glad I made that decision! I set the alarm clock for 5:30am---wanted to get up, BE AWAKE, and get the computer up and running with time to spare. I set up the Universal Time website on one tab, and the WDW website set and ready to book for CRT on another. As soon as that timer rolled over to 6am, I closed that out and started plugging the info for my coveted CRT lunch ressie in---within seconds I was CONFIRMED for a 1pm lunch ressie at CRT!!!!! Yes, I was doing a little happy dance after that victory!!!!! :banana: I then moved on to Crystal Palace, Tusker House, and Chef Mickey's. I got an 8am ressie for CP---but on a different day---the 8pm ressie for CM that I wanted (you'll see why), and NOTHING for Tusker House!!!!! It wasn't even 6:09 yet, and EVERYTHING for TH that day was GONE!!!!! I tried several different situations, but alas.....nothing!!!!! So I did half a happy dance..:woohoo:and a little of this...:guilty: and then I picked myself up, dusted myself off, and went on with my other ressies. I was FLYING through them---LTT....check, Sci-Fi Drive-In Diner....check, Tony's Restaurant....check, Coral Reef.............................................. ................NO check!!!!:scared1: I couldn't find a single Coral Reef ressie for the 23rd AT ALL!!!!!

At this point, I decided to give myself a break....it was nearing 7am, and I wanted to make sure everything was working out okay and I needed to figure out what to do with my now gaping hole for dinner on our EP night. I paused for maybe a whole fifteen minutes while I gathered my thoughts and opinions, and then proceeded onward. I decided to also make a ressie for breakfast at 1900 Park Fare on our departure day so Megs can see Mary Poppins and Alice, but I was SO lost on what to do for EP......I kept reading the menus, thinking about what we would all like......and I couldn't make up my mind!!!! I spent several hours today---not all in one sitting mind you (I had Megs to take care of and whatnot)---trying to make a decision...and nothing was hitting me....still isn't!!! SO, I decided to make SEVERAL ADRs.....I know that is probably bad, but I will cancel them as soon as Tom gives me his input tonight. Would you like to see how everything all shook out???????? Here you go:

Monday 9/21: Visit DHS after check-in. Dinner at Sci-Fi Drive-In Diner at 6:20pm.

Tuesday 9/22: Do AM EMH at EP. Hop over to MK in the afternoon until 7pm when park closes for MNSSHP. Dinner at Chef Mickey's at 8:10pm.

Wednesday 9/23: Begin day at MK. Hop over to EP for PM EMH until midnight.

**So far I have the following ressies for this date:
Rose and Crown Pub 5:40pm
Les Chefs de France 7:00pm
Kona Cafe 5:20pm
Grand Floridian Cafe 5:25pm

I can't make up my mind....don't know which scenario would be the best....don't know which restaurant would have the best menu for us......would LOVE input!!!

Thursday 9/24: Start at MK for AM EMH and stay here all day. Dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern at 8:40pm. Get to depart MK to an empty park---closes at 9pm!

Friday 9/25: Start at AK and stay for most of day. Hop to DHS for Fantasmic at 8pm. This is where my TH ressie should be, but alas it is not! :sad2: I am going to keep hope alive, and continue to check back to see if anything opens up..one can hope!!! I did not plan a dinner tonight, so we will just do CS so we don't have to worry about parkhopping and making it in time for a dinner ressie and Fantasmic.

Saturday 9/26: Crystal Palace at 8:10 am. Stay at MK all day. Dinner at Tony's Restaurant at 5:15pm.

Sunday 9/27: Go to MK...enjoy the park, and then at 1:00pm, enjoy lunch at CRT with the PRINCESSES!!!! :dance3:

Monday 9/28: Check out :sad1: but then head to GF to have breakfast at 1900 Park Fare at 9:30am with Mary Poppins and Alice in Wonderland!!!!

So what do you think????? I am very happy overall, but just need help in a couple areas!!! Let me know what you think!!! I'll update again soon!!! TTFN!!!

[wigdoutdismom]

We really enjoyed Rose & Crown, (Bangers and Mash) and Chefs (French Onion Soup) any chance of getting a later ADR for Rose & Crown, it's a great place for viewing Illuminations.......

[Lady Lallie]

I can't say enough good things about Rose & Crown. LOVED IT!

I think your ADRs look really good! :thumbsup2

[moparop]

Those ADRs look GREAT!! We ate at Kona last summer and it was easily our favorite meal of the week. I don't know if you love tuna, but the tuna oscar was AMAZING!

[Roxychica7]

We loved the Grand Floridian Cafe! The food and desserts were awesome! I have also heard several good things about Kona Cafe. We were going to eat there in 2007, but decided to go with Ohana's instead. (Which is another amazing selection!) Dbf and I's philosophy about Rose and Crown is that all we want there is Fish and Chips and we can just order that at the CS Yorkshire Fish Shop and we're both not French food people. Good luck with your talk with your DH, can't wait to hear what you pick!

[TarzansKat]

Hey there. I've only eaten at one of the restaurants on your decision list there, and that's Chefs de France. It's not my cup of tea, in the sense that there's very little on the menu I can order that won't make me sick, but that probably won't be the case for you! I also know that Remy is visiting there right now, and I can't remember how long into September he'll be greeting guests at their tables. Have you heard about that? Don't know if Megs would like it or not?

I'm sorry you didn't get everything you wanted, but at least you got the most important CRT ressie for your little princess. I know she'll be just thrilled! And you never know, it's possible that things could open up, and with the advent of the online system, I'm sure it'll be easier to check on things when you want. :thumbsup2

[ampc3]

Hey Jenn,

Found you!!! :) You will love Sci-Fi good burgers... we loved Kona Cafe, one of our best meals food wise...

To bad we will miss you.... I am planning on taking Emma for her 6th bday (her bday is sep 19th) to Disney on her bday...for the weekend, just me and her... providing the babies are sleeping through the night by then... don't think Hubby will let me leave him all alone if they aren't...

Anyway I too have a ressie as a surprise for lunch at CRT on that saturday... I can't wait to hear all about your planning and trip!
Annette

[Charleston Princess]

Hey Jenn,

Found you!!! :) You will love Sci-Fi good burgers... we loved Kona Cafe, one of our best meals food wise...

To bad we will miss you.... I am planning on taking Emma for her 6th bday (her bday is sep 19th) to Disney on her bday...for the weekend, just me and her... providing the babies are sleeping through the night by then... don't think Hubby will let me leave him all alone if they aren't...

Anyway I too have a ressie as a surprise for lunch at CRT on that saturday... I can't wait to hear all about your planning and trip!
Annette

Oh, Annette!!! How exciting!!! Do you have time to do a PTR so we can join in all of your fun?

[If U Had Wings]

All your ADRs sound great. I'm so happy that you got your ressie at CRT. Congratulations!!

[cherbear]

Hey there. I've only eaten at one of the restaurants on your decision list there, and that's Chefs de France. It's not my cup of tea, in the sense that there's very little on the menu I can order that won't make me sick, but that probably won't be the case for you! I also know that Remy is visiting there right now, and I can't remember how long into September he'll be greeting guests at their tables. Have you heard about that? Don't know if Megs would like it or not?

I'm sorry you didn't get everything you wanted, but at least you got the most important CRT ressie for your little princess. I know she'll be just thrilled! And you never know, it's possible that things could open up, and with the advent of the online system, I'm sure it'll be easier to check on things when you want. :thumbsup2

About Remy, as of now he is only there til 6:30 pm, so a 7 pm ressie would be too late to see him. Hope that helps in your decision, Jen! (and sorry to be the bearer of bad news :rolleyes:)

[cherbear]

oh and congrats on all the great ressies!

[MegansMom]

We really enjoyed Rose & Crown, (Bangers and Mash) and Chefs (French Onion Soup) any chance of getting a later ADR for Rose & Crown, it's a great place for viewing Illuminations.......

I couldn't get a later Rose and Crown ressie---I was thinking the same thing.....we have made a decision....more on that in a bit!

I can't say enough good things about Rose & Crown. LOVED IT!

I think your ADRs look really good! :thumbsup2

Thanks sweetie!!! They make me hungry when I think about them!

Those ADRs look GREAT!! We ate at Kona last summer and it was easily our favorite meal of the week. I don't know if you love tuna, but the tuna oscar was AMAZING!

I know...that is a good place to eat!

We loved the Grand Floridian Cafe! The food and desserts were awesome! I have also heard several good things about Kona Cafe. We were going to eat there in 2007, but decided to go with Ohana's instead. (Which is another amazing selection!) Dbf and I's philosophy about Rose and Crown is that all we want there is Fish and Chips and we can just order that at the CS Yorkshire Fish Shop and we're both not French food people. Good luck with your talk with your DH, can't wait to hear what you pick!

I liked GFC a lot too---yummy desserts indeed!

Hey there. I've only eaten at one of the restaurants on your decision list there, and that's Chefs de France. It's not my cup of tea, in the sense that there's very little on the menu I can order that won't make me sick, but that probably won't be the case for you! I also know that Remy is visiting there right now, and I can't remember how long into September he'll be greeting guests at their tables. Have you heard about that? Don't know if Megs would like it or not?

I'm sorry you didn't get everything you wanted, but at least you got the most important CRT ressie for your little princess. I know she'll be just thrilled! And you never know, it's possible that things could open up, and with the advent of the online system, I'm sure it'll be easier to check on things when you want. :thumbsup2

Exactly TK!!! I'm not going to go around complaining....no way!!! I'm very happy with that which I did get!!!

Hey Jenn,

Found you!!! :) You will love Sci-Fi good burgers... we loved Kona Cafe, one of our best meals food wise...

To bad we will miss you.... I am planning on taking Emma for her 6th bday (her bday is sep 19th) to Disney on her bday...for the weekend, just me and her... providing the babies are sleeping through the night by then... don't think Hubby will let me leave him all alone if they aren't...

Anyway I too have a ressie as a surprise for lunch at CRT on that saturday... I can't wait to hear all about your planning and trip!
Annette

So glad you found me!!! YEAH!!! So excited for you and Emma.....I want all the details you know!!!!

Oh, Annette!!! How exciting!!! Do you have time to do a PTR so we can join in all of your fun?

I want in too!

All your ADRs sound great. I'm so happy that you got your ressie at CRT. Congratulations!!

Thanks hon--I'm so glad I got that one!

About Remy, as of now he is only there til 6:30 pm, so a 7 pm ressie would be too late to see him. Hope that helps in your decision, Jen! (and sorry to be the bearer of bad news :rolleyes:)

Good to know!!! Thanks---I wonder why though?!?!?!?!

oh and congrats on all the great ressies!

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!

[IluvXU]

Glad to catch up! Looks like some yummy meals.... many of which we loved last week! 1 is a great time for CRT... gets you lots of time to get the rides in and a nice break from the heat!

[MegansMom]

That is the one thing I hate about making the ADRs so far out---you get in the mode to hurry up.................and WAIT!!!! It makes the trip feel SO close, but we know it is still SO FAR AWAY!!! That's what makes me so grateful for all of you....I feel like sharing this time with you all makes the wait at least a little more bearable, and sometimes makes the time seem to pass so much more quickly!!!

SO, when I last spoke with you all on Tuesday---I don't know why but that feels so long ago to me today (That should tell you what kind of week it has been :scared1:)--anyway, I did not have a Tusker House ressie, and had four made for our evening at EPCOT! WELL, since then, I have spent a lovely HOUR on the phone with the WDW Dining, and STILL have no ressie for Tusker House, only one ressie for our EPCOT evening....will share on that in a bit...and had to cancel 12 RESERVATIONS ON MY ACCOUNT that I have no idea how they got there! :scared1: It was quite an interesting phone call to say the least! But, when I was finished I had the eight reservations that I needed to have---including our reservation for Kona Cafe at 5:20pm on the 23rd...our EPCOT evening. After discussing all our options with Tom, he chose Kona!! I was surprised, but happy because not only did I enjoy my meal there, that means I still get to go in and smell that delicious aroma of the Polynesian lobby at one point on my trip!!! YEAH!!! We will spend the morning at MK, go over to Kona via the boat or monorail, and then take the monorail over to EPCOT for the evening......I think it will be GREAT!!! I am very happy with our decision!

I did try again to see if they had anything available at Coral Reef or Tusker House, and both were still completely unavailable. Oh well....moving on!!!

I have been MIA the past two days due to HORRIFIC storms that rolled through our area and knocked out our power. They caused some flash flooding right over the main street our neighborhood is off of too!!! It has been two very scary days so far, and tonight promises more storms! Last night we literally had golf ball sized hail---yes, Jackie....you would NOT have been a happy camper up here at my house yesterday or last night AT ALL!!!! I am just hoping that we continue to be safe, and our house holds up through this....I know my landscaping has NOT!!!

This week has been busy...but a happy busy---Megs has enjoyed her Summer Camp week at her preschool program SO MUCH!!! Each day she is so happy, but SO tired from all the fun!!! BUT, never too tired to think and dream about Disney. Our favorite activity lately has been looking at our WDW maps and "planning" what rides we are going to ride in which order---she will probably remember this when we are down there too! AND, we have been spending our evenings (when possible) snuggled up the three of us watching videos of our past WDW trips. It has been so much fun! DISNEY is definitely on ALL of our brains!!! The two of them enjoyed listening to our plans all laid out on Tuesday night at dinner after my long day of ADR planning. I want to make a Disney meal soon to celebrate....so I will be scooping out some Disney recipes online to create hopefully at some point over the weekend. Of course, there will be pictures of that to go along with the recipes!!! Look forward to it....hopefully it will be mouthwatering!!! ;)

I'm off to go pick up Megs now.....will update again later!!

[If U Had Wings]

It must have been the week for screwiness and bad luck when dealing with Disney this week. You didn't get stuck dealing with the same unitelligable, unhappy Disney CM that I dealt with did you? Glad it all worked out for you!

[lmillercrew]

Sorry to hear about you not getting your ressies that you wanted. Here's to hoping that someone will cancel and you can get in.
Not sure if you had an anwer to your FP question or not. But, I think that if you just go and get the FP's that you want as soon as you enter the parks, it should be o.k. We never had a problem. The only exceptions to that would be Toy Story Mania and Soarin. I would think that those would run out quickly.

[Lady Lallie]

That's too bad that there still isn't a Tusker House ADR available. I bet one will open up for you! :thumbsup2

[cherbear]

be VERY persistent on the Tusker House ressie. I got Le Cellier of all places at 80something days out (yes, it looks like we are really going!! especially since I got Le Cellier. :rotfl:) and in my opinion that is the HARDEST place to get into. I managed to get in for the past 2 years as well, even though last year it took me calling like 20 times and finally got a 4:00 ADR for the last day in our trip. Someone in another thread called me "the Le Cellier whisperer" after I got this year's ressie (1:15 by the way) :rotfl2:

Keep calling occasionally, and if you still don't get it (or get an undesirable time and want to move it) then be sure to try at 46/45 days out because that's when people have to cancel their trips and still get deposits back. :thumbsup2

How cool that you are planning a "disney home meal" -- can't wait to see what you cook up! (PUN intended!)

[MegansMom]

Glad to catch up! Looks like some yummy meals.... many of which we loved last week! 1 is a great time for CRT... gets you lots of time to get the rides in and a nice break from the heat!

I can't believe you are already back!!! I hope you had LOTS of fun!!! I thought that would be the perfect time for CRT too!!!!

It must have been the week for screwiness and bad luck when dealing with Disney this week. You didn't get stuck dealing with the same unitelligable, unhappy Disney CM that I dealt with did you? Glad it all worked out for you!

All I will say is that mine was really slow in moving through the process....I was shocked because I am not used to that!!! I also tried out the new online reservation system----yeah it made like 9 ressies for me with confirmation numbers and everything that I didn't want or need!!! :scared1: It was CRAZY!!!

Sorry to hear about you not getting your ressies that you wanted. Here's to hoping that someone will cancel and you can get in.
Not sure if you had an anwer to your FP question or not. But, I think that if you just go and get the FP's that you want as soon as you enter the parks, it should be o.k. We never had a problem. The only exceptions to that would be Toy Story Mania and Soarin. I would think that those would run out quickly.

Thanks for the input about the FP!!!! I am glad to know that we will still be okay for the most part!!! YEAH!

That's too bad that there still isn't a Tusker House ADR available. I bet one will open up for you! :thumbsup2

I keep hoping!!! If not we will be there at rope drop for sure!

be VERY persistent on the Tusker House ressie. I got Le Cellier of all places at 80something days out (yes, it looks like we are really going!! especially since I got Le Cellier. :rotfl:) and in my opinion that is the HARDEST place to get into. I managed to get in for the past 2 years as well, even though last year it took me calling like 20 times and finally got a 4:00 ADR for the last day in our trip. Someone in another thread called me "the Le Cellier whisperer" after I got this year's ressie (1:15 by the way) :rotfl2:

Keep calling occasionally, and if you still don't get it (or get an undesirable time and want to move it) then be sure to try at 46/45 days out because that's when people have to cancel their trips and still get deposits back. :thumbsup2

How cool that you are planning a "disney home meal" -- can't wait to see what you cook up! (PUN intended!)

I will keep trying!!! Look at you getting the LeCellier ressie!!!! YOU ARE GOING!??!?!?!?!?! WHEN!?!?!?!? I need details girlie!!!;)

[Trentmom]

THat is awful about those storms. Stay safe :goodvibes

WOW...12 ressies under your names....that is so strange

Glad you got it all worked out :goodvibes

[Charleston Princess]

Stay safe through all this horrible weather, Jen!!! I hope it leaves you alone soon! :hug:

Keep trying on Tusker House and Coral Reef -- maybe someone will change their mind and you can nab their ressie.

[MeMom]

But, when I was finished I had the eight reservations that I needed to have---including our reservation for Kona Cafe at 5:20pm on the 23rd...our EPCOT evening. After discussing all our options with Tom, he chose Kona!! I was surprised, but happy because not only did I enjoy my meal there, that means I still get to go in and smell that delicious aroma of the Polynesian lobby at one point on my trip!!! YEAH!!! We will spend the morning at MK, go over to Kona via the boat or monorail, and then take the monorail over to EPCOT for the evening......I think it will be GREAT!!! I am very happy with our decision!



We have not eaten at Kona yet, but I'm really wanting to!

Delicious food at Kona, the beautiful Polynesian, and Epcot - sounds like a wonderful evening!

[cherbear]

oh I almost forgot, do you think you will be enjoying a Lapu Lapu? :hyper:

[micandminforever]

Your ADR's said great keep trying on Tusker House, the characters are so cute in their outfits.

[MegansMom]

THat is awful about those storms. Stay safe :goodvibes

WOW...12 ressies under your names....that is so strange

Glad you got it all worked out :goodvibes

I think the 12 ressies had something to do with some glitch in the online booking....still trying to get the kinks out I think!!!

Stay safe through all this horrible weather, Jen!!! I hope it leaves you alone soon! :hug:

Keep trying on Tusker House and Coral Reef -- maybe someone will change their mind and you can nab their ressie.

The storms have been no fun---that is for sure! I know you would not have enjoyed the hail storm and the flash flooding from the other night....way too scary for words!

We have not eaten at Kona yet, but I'm really wanting to!

Delicious food at Kona, the beautiful Polynesian, and Epcot - sounds like a wonderful evening!

Thanks MeMom....I can't WAIT!!! :goodvibes I think you will have to try Kona at some point soon....it is YUMMY!!!! I am just so excited to have a reason to go to Poly....I love the smell of the lobby...my FAVORITE smell EVER!!!! I can still remember it as a child from wonderful, fortunate trips with my family when we stayed there!!! Speaking of resorts, I was wondering if you have any comments, advice, and/or pictures from ASMO that might help me in my uneasiness in staying there. I know I can always trust your word on any subject....please be honest!! ;)

oh I almost forgot, do you think you will be enjoying a Lapu Lapu? :hyper:

HMMMM????? You think?!?!??!?! :rotfl:

Your ADR's said great keep trying on Tusker House, the characters are so cute in their outfits.


I'm going to keep trying for Tusker House for sure!

[CRSNDSNY]

Hi!
Just read your update.
The ADR process is frustrating and now with this 90-day change it seems more frustrating.

We were able to get ours and everything we wanted with one exception. We wanted Chef Mickeys dinner but got brunch instead. That's ok, though! We did get Coral Reef lunch and Tusker House both bfast and lunch -- keep trying!!!!! Check online, too. You never know what you're going to find!

[MegansMom]

Hi!
Just read your update.
The ADR process is frustrating and now with this 90-day change it seems more frustrating.

We were able to get ours and everything we wanted with one exception. We wanted Chef Mickeys dinner but got brunch instead. That's ok, though! We did get Coral Reef lunch and Tusker House both bfast and lunch -- keep trying!!!!! Check online, too. You never know what you're going to find!


Congrats on getting what you wanted!!! YEAH!!! I'm going to keep trying....I'm thinking I will have even better luck around the 45 day mark when everyone needs to be PIF!!! Keep your fingers crossed for me!!!

[jenjolt]

Jen!! What a great update!! I'm going to keep my fingers crossed for you so you get all the ADRs you want. I'm a huge fan of the online system and checking each morning, the last two days I have had some great luck and can't wait to share that with all of you!

Paula and I are also going to eat at Kona Cafe but we are going in the morning for breakfast...I cant' wait to eat Tonga Toast!!!! YUMMY!!!

Can't wait to hear more about your trip!

[MegansMom]

Jen!! What a great update!! I'm going to keep my fingers crossed for you so you get all the ADRs you want. I'm a huge fan of the online system and checking each morning, the last two days I have had some great luck and can't wait to share that with all of you!

Paula and I are also going to eat at Kona Cafe but we are going in the morning for breakfast...I cant' wait to eat Tonga Toast!!!! YUMMY!!!

Can't wait to hear more about your trip!

I can't wait to hear all about your ADRs!!!! :) Eat a piece of Tonga Toast for me.....it sounds SO good!!!!!

I have another Update coming tomorrow......today I was boggled down by a HUGE playdate here at my house.....8 kiddos all under 5 and 2 adults.....yeah, it was CRAZY....but fun!!! BUT, UPDATE TOMORROW!!!! Yeah...MORE FUN!!! :banana:

[2xcited2sleep]

Hi Jen! Looks like you made out fairly well with your ADRs!! Wow an hour on the phone w/ dining and 12 reservations you hadn't made?! :confused3 Too bad none of them were Tusker House! :laughing: I agree that you should remain persistent. As packages need to be paid in full maybe things will open up. I have also *heard* that sometimes if you put in a different party size that tables "magically" open up b/c of the way the system works. So maybe try a party of 2? Would think you could easily pull a chair over even to a two top for Megs.

Kona! I am eating there for the first time this trip too! :yay:

Hurrah for Disney planning. That sounds like a lovely way to end each day and to get excited for the trip -- not that you guys need any help there! ;)

[MegansMom]

I'd like to start off this update with an apology of sorts.....My dear PTR readers, I have not been feeling like my normal PTR-writing self lately.....and I apologize. There is a little cloud, a funk, maybe a fog hanging over us and our Disney trip, that I think finally affected me so much that it impaired my PTR writing abilities....I feel it has just been a little dry, a little boring, a little lifeless lately.....and I'm sorry! :worship: I beg for your forgiveness. This case of Resortitis has flared up into a serious case of Vacation Woe!!! :sick: There are just too many things going on right now with our trip that leave me feeling a little "bleh," a little unsettled, that I just haven't had the will or the oomph to come and produce "PTR Greatness" for you all. I am ashamed!! :sad2:

BUT, I am going to attempt to rise above it...share it with you all a little...in hopes that it will go away and we can get back to partying like "Rockstars!"

I know that I really don't need to go into my angst over our Resort situation. You know it, you have heard it, and I think you can feel my pain. I did much research on these here DISboards in hopes to make it better....but I think I have actually made it worse....by a ton! There are not too many positive comments or threads on here showering praise upon ASMO. I know you probably are REALLY shocked, huh???? So in reading them and sharing the details of them with Tom, we have both grown even more concerned about our resort selection. To make matters worse, I have been poisoned with envy by many recent photos of DISfriends who have stayed at other LOVELY WDW resorts that are calling to me.....making me yearn "TO GO THERE" in such a bad way. It has now become our almost nightly dinner conversation....what to do about our resort!!!! Everytime we try to calm ourselves and get happy about it, we hear about negative experiences of others and get scared even more. I am afraid that we have been WAY too tainted to ever give ASMO a chance. Yet, nothing has happened....no changes have been made....and that makes me even more unsettled.

To add even more icky residue to my thoughts about our trip, we didn't get two of the ADRs we were hoping to get....and even though I wasn't upset at the time, I am downright pouting about not having them now. SO very unlike me!!! I know that I need to keep trying...and I will...but it just irritates me everytime I try and get left empty-handed!!!! I am sure I will get over this....because I really am not the type to dwell or pout...but it has just added an even thicker sludge to my funk...my fog!

AND LASTLY.....but oh so very importantly.....I am having wardrobe and park bag drama!!!! :scared1: I haven't had to experience this in quite some time, and it has thrown me askew from my normal, happy, pleasant self. Let me give you some history:

During the course of our first two trips to WDW as a family, I very much fine-tuned my wardrobe and park bag to what I believed perfection on our June 2008 trip with my family. My perfect park bag finally came to me during a trip to the annual Vera Bradley sale in Ft. Wayne, IN---the hipster!!! It was perfect for me....fit me comfortably, wasn't too heavy or bulky, great ease in wearing with the rides, and held everything I needed to have on me while in the parks....SHEER PERFECTION!!!! It was supplemented by our perfect organization system in our wonderful Maclaren stroller....we were a well-oiled, fine-tuned DISNEY MACHINE BABY!!!! After all my success with that bag on that trip, I was relieved to know that I would never long for a different park bag again...I had found my match! :cloud9: So why the bag drama????? Well, some things have changed since that trip...specifically my BABY, my Megs!!!! She truly has graduated from the stroller. She can still fit in her stroller fine now, but no longer has the need or desire to use one. How do I know this? We are season pass members to the Kings Island theme park near us, and she has been a walking machine this year in touring that park on our many trips that we have already taken so far this summer. When I asked her if she wanted to use her stroller in Disney, her response was a very confident..."No Mommy, I am a BIG girl now!" Now, we are intelligent people, the stroller will still be in the back of our SUV just in case but our plan is to be completely STROLLER-FREE!!!!! :woohoo::yay::cool1: Ahhhhh.....what it must be like to travel the World, and not have to worry where you last parked your stroller!!! I CAN'T WAIT!!!!! Except for the one small problem it has caused me.....am I going to have to find a new park bag now to accomodate the things the stroller would have normally stored!?!?!?!?!?! :scared1::scared1::scared1: I am so frazzled by this new revelation that I have completely forgotten the things I normally carried with me in order to reassess this situation!!! YES LL, I need to make a list!!! (It is on my TO DOs for today!) Then I am going to need input people....I will be heavily relying on you!!!!

AND TO BOOT, there is wardrobe drama too!!!! Not with shoes---because I have found my match there too---but with my actual clothes. Over the course of the past three trips, I have acquired an extensive collection of Disney shirts....I found my daughter was quite excited each time I would wear a Disney-themed outfit while there. I now have enough to have a complete Disney wardrobe while there....but there is one problem.....it really is all t-shirts! Some of them are cute fitted-cut shirts, but the others are the shapeless box of a shirt that is the traditional t-shirt. I like my shirts, but at times, I feel a little frumpy in them. I want to look like I do in my everyday life---pulled together and chic---but feel like I look a little sloppy in those outfits. I know peeps that we are in Disney, and there are a whole new set of guidelines for fashion that apply there, but I want to feel a little less frumpy and a little more fabulous, but don't know how to achieve it! I want to still make Megs happy with Disney-themed apparel, but want to somehow find form-flattering fashions that I won't feel so frumpy in. I also want to figure out what to do about my hair while there. I have two favorite Disney visors that I like to wear, but how can I make that look seem fashionable?!?!!??!!?

So here in lies my funk....my fog....ICK!!!! I am not a very venty person, but I felt I needed to share it, get it out, and hopefully find some answers from all of you to help me move past it, and get back to my "Rockstar" ways!!! ;)

Okay, I am allowing myself just this one update to be like Eeyore....the next I will promise will be much more FUN!!!!

[MegansMom]

Okay.....so I'm posting right after my update...............I did some research for my bag dilemma.....trying to start small in conquering these issues, and then will hopefully be able to work up to the big stuff....like switching our resort!!!!

ANYWAY, I went back to my PTR from last year, and dug up my old "OMG Packing List" to see what I took with me into the parks.

HERE IS THE PARK PORTION OF THAT LIST:

What I need for the parks:

IN MY HIPSTER BAG--
--camera in pouch w/extra battery and memory card
--cell phone
--ID case w/ KTTW, Ticket, Disney Visa Rewards Card, Disney Visa, My driver's license, Meg's ID, Health Insurance card, ADR card
--First aid kit in mini blue pouch w/ BandAids, moleskin, small pack of Excedrin, Children's chewable tablets, Rolaids, Immodium-AD, Dramamine, Chapstick and small tube of Neosporin. (All small/travel sizes).
--Gum
--Small tissue packet
--Hand sanitizer clipped to bag
--Tip envelope for each day

IN THE COOLER (Stored in bottom basket of stroller)--
--Ice Pack
--Bottled Water
--Sunscreen in ziploc bag
--Couple packages of fruit snacks/raisins in ziploc bag.
--Cold washcloth in ziploc bag

IN STROLLER ORGANIZER (We have a Mac Volo w/the attachable organizer)--
--Megan's autograph book and pen
--Extra set of clothes and a small brush for Megs in ziploc bag
--Mister fan
--One set of ponchos for all 3 of us
--Small umbrella


I didn't feel like such a pack mule because so much of the stuff I was able to store on the stroller. Okay, what can I get rid of?!!??!?!!?

IN MY HIPSTER BAG--
--camera in pouch w/extra battery and memory card--Need this!
--cell phone AND THIS
--ID case w/ KTTW, Ticket, Disney Visa Rewards Card, Disney Visa, My driver's license, Meg's ID, Health Insurance card, ADR card AND THIS
--First aid kit in mini blue pouch w/ BandAids, moleskin, small pack of Excedrin, Children's chewable tablets, Rolaids, Immodium-AD, Dramamine, Chapstick and small tube of Neosporin. (All small/travel sizes). AND THIS
--Gum Could live without, but so small that will still probably pack some!
--Small tissue packet Have to have!
--Hand sanitizer clipped to bag MUST...but can clip to the outside
--Tip envelope for each day I will be doing this again...made it so easy!

I also carried a small package of Wet Wipes....why isn't that on here?!


IN THE COOLER (Stored in bottom basket of stroller)--
--Ice Pack
--Bottled Water
--Sunscreen in ziploc bag
--Couple packages of fruit snacks/raisins in ziploc bag.
--Cold washcloth in ziploc bag

Okay, if we don't have the stroller, than I am NOT taking in a cooler this year. Having said that, I will still need to find someway to carry in at least a small container of sunscreen, and I also think I would like to still take in the washcloth in the bag. None of us really eat that much of the snacks, but I would like to be able to take in a small bag of fruit snacks for Megs each day---just in case.

IN STROLLER ORGANIZER (We have a Mac Volo w/the attachable organizer)--
--Megan's autograph book and pen
--Extra set of clothes and a small brush for Megs in ziploc bag
--Mister fan
--One set of ponchos for all 3 of us
--Small umbrella

Okay...again, not taking in the stroller, so I have to figure out a way to carry these things...the only thing that might go is the small umbrella. Maybe the mister fan...not sure.


Taking all of this into consideration, I know that I am going to need something at least a little bigger than the hipster. I do love Vera bags, so I would hope that I could find something along those lines. I also like things with pockets--helps me keep everything so neatly organized!!!!

[Lady Lallie]

What about the cargo sling from Vera Bradely? I think that is bigger but still compact. I think that is the best way for you to go. I think you could fit almost all of that in there.

My other suggestion is to upgrade from the hipster the mail bag by Vera, still along the same lines and I really liked mine and then have Tom carry a backpack! :rolleyes1

[Charleston Princess]

Poor Jen!!! Resortitis is the worst! I know exactly how you feel because if you are like me, the resort has to feel as much a part of the vacation as visiting the parks themselves. Having said that, I am now going to admonish you to "Quit reading negative reviews!" You know that people love to complain and one person's negative review can outshadow all the positives -- and in my constant state of resort flux, I have read bad reviews on every single resort at Disney -- including my beloved Animal Kingdom Lodge! :eek: You will have a great time no matter where you are staying because it's Disney! :hug:

Next item of business: don't think about what you didn't get for ADRs, think about all the great places you are eating! Just remember there are going to be other trips. :hug:

Park bag woes: I feel your pain. I am still looking for the perfect bag...

Wardrobe: I know what you mean -- I kind of felt sloppy wearing just t-shirts and shorts at Disney the whole time, but it is Disney -- comfort is paramount. :goodvibes

[IluvXU]

Jen,
I had the big Vera Backpack this trip. It fits a ton. Also I did not carry an extra outfit for Hannah for the first time. Just a thought.

What ADRs are you wanting. Can we try to substitute? Post again if you want.

[MRYPPNS]

I second LL's suggestion --- Tom needs to start carrying a small backpack. My DH does when we travel.

About the resort. I agree with Jackie...stop reading reviews. But with that said...you get what you pay for. I know you were trying to save a little money for the new house....but I can guess at how much this trip is going to cost you and another $500 or so to upgrade to a mod isn't really that much more. And $500 towards a house isn't getting going to put a dent in anything. But $500 towards a resort that you are excited about is so worth it! :wizard:

[MegansMom]

What about the cargo sling from Vera Bradely? I think that is bigger but still compact. I think that is the best way for you to go. I think you could fit almost all of that in there.

My other suggestion is to upgrade from the hipster the mail bag by Vera, still along the same lines and I really liked mine and then have Tom carry a backpack! :rolleyes1

Okay LL....I am going to check those out when I get back from my Doctor appointment!

Poor Jen!!! Resortitis is the worst! I know exactly how you feel because if you are like me, the resort has to feel as much a part of the vacation as visiting the parks themselves. Having said that, I am now going to admonish you to "Quit reading negative reviews!" You know that people love to complain and one person's negative review can outshadow all the positives -- and in my constant state of resort flux, I have read bad reviews on every single resort at Disney -- including my beloved Animal Kingdom Lodge! :eek: You will have a great time no matter where you are staying because it's Disney! :hug:

Next item of business: don't think about what you didn't get for ADRs, think about all the great places you are eating! Just remember there are going to be other trips. :hug:

Park bag woes: I feel your pain. I am still looking for the perfect bag...

Wardrobe: I know what you mean -- I kind of felt sloppy wearing just t-shirts and shorts at Disney the whole time, but it is Disney -- comfort is paramount. :goodvibes

CP---you are always a bit of sunshine when there is rain all around!!! Like I said, I needed to get it out of my system so I could move on......being glum is so not like me!!! I'm MOVING on!!!! I HOPE!!! ;) There is a bright spot....there is some SHOPPING in my future for sure!

Jen,
I had the big Vera Backpack this trip. It fits a ton. Also I did not carry an extra outfit for Hannah for the first time. Just a thought.

What ADRs are you wanting. Can we try to substitute? Post again if you want.

I was thinking about that bag too...putting that on my list right now! I was trying to get an 8am Tusker House...no substitutes, and an evening Coral Reef. I'm not as upset about that one, because we substituted Kona Cafe for that one!!! I will keep trying for TH, but will be okay if I don't get it too!

I second LL's suggestion --- Tom needs to start carrying a small backpack. My DH does when we travel.

About the resort. I agree with Jackie...stop reading reviews. But with that said...you get what you pay for. I know you were trying to save a little money for the new house....but I can guess at how much this trip is going to cost you and another $500 or so to upgrade to a mod isn't really that much more. And $500 towards a house isn't getting going to put a dent in anything. But $500 towards a resort that you are excited about is so worth it! :wizard:

Tom won't carry a backpack...so that is out the window. I feel like I can find some way to consolidate enough to make it all work....I'll keep you all updated. Thanks for the input on the room.....I think we are still working on this one!

[jenjolt]

Oh Jen :hug:BIG HUGS:hug: Of course I still thought you were a rockstart the whole time!!

From someone who recently stayed at an AS resort I really did enjoy it but you have to be comfortable wherever you are staying and I hope you and Tom will be able to find the resort you really want to be at!!!

Keep checking on TH, things pop up all the time and you never know when Pixie dust will sprinkle itself on you...what morning were you hoping to go???

Vera Bradley has BACKPACKS...hold the phone!! Okay now I have to go check that out LOL!

[wigdoutdismom]

Oh how I feel your pain. . . The wardrobe dilemma is killing me. When we went in March cute little track suits "suited" me just fine, mostly they were jackets with either long or capri length yoga pants, and very comfortable. I could still wear a few of my disney Ts with them so I still felt a bit festive.
The major problem for me is a 20 lb weight gain that has left me feeling terribly frumpy! Nothing fit from last summer when we went back in June. I took absolutely no time planning my wardrobe or shopping for the trip. I actually took clothes that didn't even fit.
I'll be watching you very closely to see what you decide to do.
If all else fails it will be track suits again in December.....

[MegansMom]

Oh Jen :hug:BIG HUGS:hug: Of course I still thought you were a rockstart the whole time!!

From someone who recently stayed at an AS resort I really did enjoy it but you have to be comfortable wherever you are staying and I hope you and Tom will be able to find the resort you really want to be at!!!

Keep checking on TH, things pop up all the time and you never know when Pixie dust will sprinkle itself on you...what morning were you hoping to go???

Vera Bradley has BACKPACKS...hold the phone!! Okay now I have to go check that out LOL!

Thanks for the hugs!!!! YEAH....I'M STILL A ROCKSTAR!!!!! ;)

I am collecting data on the resorts for him now....I'll let him mull it over, and once we make a final decision, I am going to make the best Lemonade out of what sour lemons we may or may not get!

I need to check TH again today....haven't done that yet....I was hoping for the 25th....we shall see!!!! It kind of scared me that EVERY single ressie for TH was taken that day....we couldn't have gotten a later one if we wanted to!!! :scared1: Where are all the people coming from?!?!?!!?

Oh how I feel your pain. . . The wardrobe dilemma is killing me. When we went in March cute little track suits "suited" me just fine, mostly they were jackets with either long or capri length yoga pants, and very comfortable. I could still wear a few of my disney Ts with them so I still felt a bit festive.
The major problem for me is a 20 lb weight gain that has left me feeling terribly frumpy! Nothing fit from last summer when we went back in June. I took absolutely no time planning my wardrobe or shopping for the trip. I actually took clothes that didn't even fit.
I'll be watching you very closely to see what you decide to do.
If all else fails it will be track suits again in December.....

Oh I bet you looked adorable in your track suits!!!! I need to keep in mind the heat index too when planning my ensemble too.....last time we were there in September, we were ROASTING!!!!




Back from my Doctor's appointment.....all is good....thought I had Strep, but alas, it is just irritation and drainage from the pollen and allergens in the air around here. Cincy is notorious for that! I feel fine though and don't have to take any yucky medicine so I am happy!!! :yay:

[ampc3]

Hey Jenn, sorry your so unsure about your resort stay... granted it was only 2 nights, but we stayed a few years back at ASMOv and the kids loved it! the only complaint I had was the buses, (b/c they shared ) I know it is soo hard to downgrade so to speak, and I feel your pain... but if you do end up there it really isn't that bad, and Megan will love the themes... plus if you are driving, you can always just drive yourself and not even worry about the buses.... no advice on the bag situation... I just found myself back in to the whole stroller thing again x2! hang in there...

[Trentmom]

Aw...sorry you are in such a funk :hug:

Like others said, some people just live for complaining. So try to stop reading those reviews:thumbsup2

Why not rent a locker for extra change of clothes and all that first aid stuff and even ponchos. (you could always stay covered up dry somewhere with Megan if it starts to rain and have your hubby run to locker to get them :laughing:)

For suntan lotion, lather up real good at hotel and then just bring one of those tiny suntain lotions for touch up.

Or like others have said, have your Dh wear a small backpack:goodvibes

[kschafer]

Why not rent a locker for extra change of clothes and all that first aid stuff and even ponchos.

For suntan lotion, lather up real good at hotel and then just bring one of those tiny suntain lotions for touch up.


All good advice! I personally would skip the change of clothes, get an only slightly larger bag to carry the couple additional items and not even bother with the locker but it's not a bad option.

Would Megs be able to carry a small backpack? My boys each had a pack to carry their autograph books, pressed penny book, small personal fan and a few small snacks. they weren't heavy at all but kept me from being the packmule!

I also got a camera bag that I was able to clip to the strap of my bag. It freed up some of the room inside and made it easy to grab when I wanted it.

[cherbear]

Aw...sorry you are in such a funk :hug:

Like others said, some people just live for complaining. So try to stop reading those reviews:thumbsup2

Why not rent a locker for extra change of clothes and all that first aid stuff and even ponchos. (you could always stay covered up dry somewhere with Megan if it starts to rain and have your hubby run to locker to get them :laughing:)

For suntan lotion, lather up real good at hotel and then just bring one of those tiny suntain lotions for touch up.

Or like others have said, have your Dh wear a small backpack:goodvibes

good advice!

[cherbear]

Jen, glad you don't have strep!

I feel you on the clothes, I always WANT to wear Disney themed stuff but then the stuff I buy ends up being uncomfortable in the heat (I prefer something WITHOUT sleeves and not all bunchy) so I only end up wearing Disney shirts if a) I can find tank tops, b) on the plane, and c) if I change in the evening when it's slightly cooler

As far as the bag, hope you can find a new one to suit you.

You really think Megs is gonna walk the whole time? Boy is she brave! Don't you wish they made adult-sized strollers? :laughing::laughing:

[MegansMom]

Hey Jenn, sorry your so unsure about your resort stay... granted it was only 2 nights, but we stayed a few years back at ASMOv and the kids loved it! the only complaint I had was the buses, (b/c they shared ) I know it is soo hard to downgrade so to speak, and I feel your pain... but if you do end up there it really isn't that bad, and Megan will love the themes... plus if you are driving, you can always just drive yourself and not even worry about the buses.... no advice on the bag situation... I just found myself back in to the whole stroller thing again x2! hang in there...

Thanks for the input about ASMO---but the buses are the big concern in our book!!!! I really think that will put Tom over the edge!!! I am not sure that he would want to drive....he likes just getting on a bus and going!

Aw...sorry you are in such a funk :hug:

Like others said, some people just live for complaining. So try to stop reading those reviews:thumbsup2

Why not rent a locker for extra change of clothes and all that first aid stuff and even ponchos. (you could always stay covered up dry somewhere with Megan if it starts to rain and have your hubby run to locker to get them :laughing:)

For suntan lotion, lather up real good at hotel and then just bring one of those tiny suntain lotions for touch up.

Or like others have said, have your Dh wear a small backpack:goodvibes

I feel like the fog is lifting!!!

I forgot about the lockers.....but I think I am going to not only use a slightly bigger bag, but I am going to eliminate quite a few items too! We only ever spray up in the hotel room in the morning, so I think just a very small tube of sunscreen will come with us. The ponchos we use are disposables from the dollar store, so they are folded up very small and compactly....I think I am beginning to weed out the items....now just have to find the perfect bag!!!!

All good advice! I personally would skip the change of clothes, get an only slightly larger bag to carry the couple additional items and not even bother with the locker but it's not a bad option.

Would Megs be able to carry a small backpack? My boys each had a pack to carry their autograph books, pressed penny book, small personal fan and a few small snacks. they weren't heavy at all but kept me from being the packmule!

I also got a camera bag that I was able to clip to the strap of my bag. It freed up some of the room inside and made it easy to grab when I wanted it.

Where did you get this clip on camera bag???? That sounds interesting!!! I think Megan would carry a backpack, I just think it will become more of a nuisance for us for her to do that than anything.

good advice!

I agree!!

Jen, glad you don't have strep!

I feel you on the clothes, I always WANT to wear Disney themed stuff but then the stuff I buy ends up being uncomfortable in the heat (I prefer something WITHOUT sleeves and not all bunchy) so I only end up wearing Disney shirts if a) I can find tank tops, b) on the plane, and c) if I change in the evening when it's slightly cooler

As far as the bag, hope you can find a new one to suit you.

You really think Megs is gonna walk the whole time? Boy is she brave! Don't you wish they made adult-sized strollers? :laughing::laughing:

She says she will walk.....we shall see!!!! That is why the stroller will be in WDW with us just in case!!! ;)


Megan wanted me to put two of these on here: :rotfl::rotfl: So there you go! She caught 7 fish btw, and Grandpa only caught 5! The large subdivision they live in has three lakes, so we all get to go hang out, and go fishing often....now Megs and I don't like to touch the fish or the bait, but we love to just sit and chill by the water!!!!!

[cherbear]

WTG Megan!

by the way, Jen, did you miss my comment about adult-sized strollers? what I meant was I would like to be pushed around in a stroller some days! :rotfl:

[wigdoutdismom]

Yep, way too hot for track suits in June, therefore I took clothes that didn't fit..:confused3

I did see some very cute Vera backpacks at Disney, it's so funny how you notice all the Veras when you become a fan...
Even Baylor was pointing out Vera bags....:rotfl2:

LL's bag was super cute too!:thumbsup2

[wigdoutdismom]

Jen, we got my pink clip on camera bag at Walmart. If you want to see it, look at the picture of me on the first post on my trip report. It's hanging from my hipster!:goodvibes
Anita

[MegansMom]

WTG Megan!

by the way, Jen, did you miss my comment about adult-sized strollers? what I meant was I would like to be pushed around in a stroller some days! :rotfl:

Oh me too honey!!!! I think they call those WHEELCHAIRS....and I hope I am not ready for one of those yet!!! :lmao::rotfl:

Yep, way too hot for track suits in June, therefore I took clothes that didn't fit..:confused3

I did see some very cute Vera backpacks at Disney, it's so funny how you notice all the Veras when you become a fan...
Even Baylor was pointing out Vera bags....:rotfl2:

LL's bag was super cute too!:thumbsup2

I have just come from the Vera site.....:rolleyes1

Jen, we got my pink clip on camera bag at Walmart. If you want to see it, look at the picture of me on the first post on my trip report. It's hanging from my hipster!:goodvibes
Anita

Thanks Hon!!! I will definitely check that out!!! Would be nice to have it handy all the time!

LL---tell me about the cargo sling and the mailbag.....I want to know more!

[MegansMom]

Anita---I just checked that out....that would be GREAT!!!! Which section of Wally World did you find it in?!?!?!?!

[wigdoutdismom]

Anita---I just checked that out....that would be GREAT!!!! Which section of Wally World did you find it in?!?!?!?!

It was right over with the camera accessories.
Sometimes I would just walk around with the camera dangling from my wrist and the camera bag would just be open, more than once someone pointed out that they thought I must have lost something. I really did love that clip-on bag!

[kschafer]

It was right over with the camera accessories.


:thumbsup2 Wal-Mart has a huge selection of cute little camera bags that will clip easily to the strap of your bigger bag!

[lmillercrew]

OOOHHH Jenn! I am feeling your woes too. I want to be cute too when I'm at Disney! I'm just not sure how to make the visors more fashionable?? :rotfl: I understand their purpose and they are great to wear, but they are kinda like Crocs to me. I like my Crocs because they are comfy, but they are just not cute. (the big ones anyway) ;) And, you don't really want to spend anymore money on more shirts if you have enough. I think that if you have cute bottoms to go with your tops, add a cute pair of earrings... That's all I got sister. :confused3
As far as the bag thing goes, I usually take a light weight, draw string backpack. We rent a locker and put our lunches in there.
My youngest DD thought she could walk last time we were there and she was six. We ended up renting a stroller and she would ride when she got tired. It's a smart thing for you to take her stroller, just in case.
What other resorts are you looking at staying?

[TarzansKat]

Hon, I could have written parts of your post. :hug:

I totally get resort angst, and bag angst, and clothing angst. I've had plenty of it. I have no advice, it just takes time to figure out what's best for you. :hug:

[MegansMom]

It was right over with the camera accessories.
Sometimes I would just walk around with the camera dangling from my wrist and the camera bag would just be open, more than once someone pointed out that they thought I must have lost something. I really did love that clip-on bag!

I am SO getting one of those!!!! My camera will fit in there perfectly!

:thumbsup2 Wal-Mart has a huge selection of cute little camera bags that will clip easily to the strap of your bigger bag!

I think I am going to have to schedule a trip to Wally World soon!!!! YEAH! That might actually be the first trip purchase!!!!! OOOOOOHHHHHH!!!!!

OOOHHH Jenn! I am feeling your woes too. I want to be cute too when I'm at Disney! I'm just not sure how to make the visors more fashionable?? :rotfl: I understand their purpose and they are great to wear, but they are kinda like Crocs to me. I like my Crocs because they are comfy, but they are just not cute. (the big ones anyway) ;) And, you don't really want to spend anymore money on more shirts if you have enough. I think that if you have cute bottoms to go with your tops, add a cute pair of earrings... That's all I got sister. :confused3
As far as the bag thing goes, I usually take a light weight, draw string backpack. We rent a locker and put our lunches in there.
My youngest DD thought she could walk last time we were there and she was six. We ended up renting a stroller and she would ride when she got tired. It's a smart thing for you to take her stroller, just in case.
What other resorts are you looking at staying?

I am definitely looking into getting some fun/new bottoms for the trip and because I need them. I will work on the cute earrings too......hmmmmmmmm!!!! I'll keep you updated on the wardrobe front!!!

In all honesty, if we don't do ASMO, we will upgrade to CSR.....we love it there!

Hon, I could have written parts of your post. :hug:

I totally get resort angst, and bag angst, and clothing angst. I've had plenty of it. I have no advice, it just takes time to figure out what's best for you. :hug:

Thanks for all the hugs....I know you feel that pain too!!!! I am rising above it, doing LOTS of "research," and I hope to have some resolutions REALLY soon!

[IluvXU]

Enabler that I am Jen, Merle Norman has a big sale on Vera. I think 50 % off. My mom got two purses in Deerfield this week, super cute and newer patterns.

I had to laugh.. the ad at the top of the page here was for Vera Bradley through some website... it is a sign!

[micandminforever]

Why can't Disney make cute shirts. Something besides T-shirts that make you look like you have gained 50 pounds in all of your pictures.

Instead of thinking about the resort, think about the parks and the fun you will have. My Sept. trip this year is a budget trip and to make up for the resort. I plan on visiting the monorail resorts, visit gift shops, do a little deluxe looking and picture taking. Then go back to my resort and have sweet dreaming about my deluxe trip in future.

I believe Megan will love the big icons at all stars, and you can have pictures of her with them. This will be a special just the three of you trip and hold on to that idea.

[MegansMom]

Enabler that I am Jen, Merle Norman has a big sale on Vera. I think 50 % off. My mom got two purses in Deerfield this week, super cute and newer patterns.

I had to laugh.. the ad at the top of the page here was for Vera Bradley through some website... it is a sign!

Do you know anything about the cargo sling or the mailbag? I want to know about how big they are and what types of storage they have. I think I may need to make a trip to Deerfield!

Why can't Disney make cute shirts. Something besides T-shirts that make you look like you have gained 50 pounds in all of your pictures.

Instead of thinking about the resort, think about the parks and the fun you will have. My Sept. trip this year is a budget trip and to make up for the resort. I plan on visiting the monorail resorts, visit gift shops, do a little deluxe looking and picture taking. Then go back to my resort and have sweet dreaming about my deluxe trip in future.

I believe Megan will love the big icons at all stars, and you can have pictures of her with them. This will be a special just the three of you trip and hold on to that idea.

I know Megan won't care about the resort, and eventually, hopefully we won't either......although I am REALLY sensing a huge amount of hesitation in Tom....I REALLY get the feeling that we are on the verge of switching resorts.

[IluvXU]

You just should make a swing by here and visit with us...

I have the on the go, it is pretty big too. You could probably test shop at my house... we have too many veras!

[2xcited2sleep]

Jen- so sorry you are having so much angst. :hug: I think we all relate. As others have said, there is no resort on property that doesn't have a bad review so you have to take it with a grain of salt. But, that said, you should also go with your gut and if you're the kind of family who really enjoys relaxing at the resort then maybe you want to consider a change. Either way it is going to be a magical trip. Good luck with your decision!

Sorry you are fretting over the ADRs you didn't get. Remember there is still time. And I think your line-up looks fantastic!

I have no advice on the wardrobe. A fashion plate, I am not. :sad2: