July 09 WONDER w/Dis Stars & New Menus; updated 9-3-09

[Narnia_girl]

Our new-to-cruising family includes myself, my DH Rick and our children, Andrew (DS18), Christian (DS14) and Caroline, (DD8).
We generally take family car trips; a cruise is a big departure from what we are used to doing.

This first post is about planning so if you are more interested in actual trip details skip ahead.
Also, all the pictures on these first couple of posts will be public domain images. That's because on day two of our trip
I asked my son to check out something on the camera and he deleted all our pictures from that day and the first day. ugh!


2008

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/clippigletsweep.gif

It’s early October and I’m trying to think of a family trip that we can enjoy to celebrate our upcoming 20th Anniversary.
Maybe a cruise or trip to Walt Disney World during the kids school break in January?

I have been asking my friends for advice and have contacted my neighbor’s granddaughter who is a Disney travel agent.

Oct. 17
Been communicating back and forth with travel agent. Trying to fit in the dates and times and not completely keel over at the cost.
Thinking how awesome it would be to give them this gift on Christmas morning and then be able to leave 3 weeks later during a school break (extra long weekend).

Oct. 21
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/dosney_love.jpg

Going back and forth with the idea of two staterooms in a lower category rather than one bigger stateroom. It is our anniversary after all. Can’t the kids stay in their own room?

Oct. 23
Maybe we should do Walt Disney World instead of a cruise?

Nov. 5

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/sickchild1.gif

Seriously concerned about Christian missing any more school. If we go in January, he would have to miss a least two more days of school.
He’s missed 7 or 8 days already due to illness. Need to look into going in June instead. No one in the family knows about the trip yet….


Nov. 8

Had a June trip all picked out when Andrew mentions CIY camp. Scrap the date and move into July. July is more expensive than June!

Nov. 9

BOOKED!!! :cool1: Wow, I did it! :banana: I booked a cruise on my own, without telling Rick. :scared1: He’ll probably freak out!
We sail July 9. I have to get reading and planning a way to surprise them with this. What a great Christmas present this will be! :dance3:

Dec.
Planning my presentation to the family on Christmas morning. :santa:

Dec. 25, 2008

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/Christmas-Minnie-Mickey-Claus.jpg

We opened all the family gifts at home like normal. It was a nice morning.
Since we usually get a family gift the kids were happy to get a new computer monitor and figured that was their big gift.

Suddenly I “found” a big box at the very back of the tree. It was labeled “To Rick”. He opened the box while the kids looked on.
Inside was a calendar page for the month of July 2009. The day, July 9 was circled in red.

Hmmm, he figured we were doing something in July. Also inside were three silver wrapped boxes.
Each had a number on it and one of the children’s names.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/report.gif

*Caroline got #1 and opened it. It was an ornament of a starfish. Hmmm, a beach vacation?

*Christian opened box #2. It was a glass ornament of a ship inside a life buoy and had the words “Bon Voyage” written on it.
I don’t think they quite got it yet, but I didn’t want them to ponder for too long so I had

*Andrew open his box, #3. Since the trip had morphed into a graduation present for him, too, I thought he should have the honor of opening the final information source. It was a long box with a Disney Cruise brochure inside.

There was general disbelief and looks of surprise. "WE'RE GOING ON A CRUISE?"
Caroline was whooping and hollering. :dance3: Rick looked seasick. :scared: Just kidding, he was probably in shock.
The kids immediately put on the DVD and watched all about the cruise. :happytv: That day Caroline told everyone at the family Christmas dinner about our big gift! :santa:

May 1, 2009. Ordered passports for everyone.
Early May. Discovered DIS boards; joined May 11
June 1, 2009. Passports arrived.

May: Explore options to do after the cruise to help with the post-cruise let down. Decide on two days at Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure. After getting much advice from the DIS boards we decide to stay on-site to utilize the Front of the Line perk reserved for resort guests.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/segway_night.jpg

Both Rick and Andrew’s birthdays are at the end of May. Christian’s is at the end of June.
I give them their “combined gift” on Christian’s birthday...just two weeks before the trip: a stay at the Royal Pacific Resort, two days at Universal Studios/IOA and they will all be taking the Nassau Segway Tour excursion!




http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/divider.gif

One thing I learned: Our travel agent was very nice and easy to work with. But she had no experience with DCL.
We basically paid rack rate and got no onboard credit; not much in the way of suggestions or advice either. Next time we'll go with a more experienced agent.

next up: Day one...first flight, first palm trees, first Florida!

[RoyalVizier]

We opened all the family gifts at home like normal. It was a nice morning.
Since we usually get a family gift the kids were happy to get a new computer monitor and figured that was their big gift.

Suddenly I “found” a big box at the very back of the tree. It was labeled “To Rick”. He opened the box while the kids looked on.
Inside was a calendar page for the month of July 2009. The day, July 9 was circled in red.

Hmmm, he figured we were doing something in July. Also inside were three silver wrapped boxes.
Each had a number on it and one of the children’s names.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/report.gif

*Caroline got #1 and opened it. It was an ornament of a starfish. Hmmm, a beach vacation?

*Christian opened box #2. It was a glass ornament of a ship inside a life buoy and had the words “Bon Voyage” written on it.
I don’t think they quite got it yet, but I didn’t want them to ponder for too long so I had

*Andrew open his box, #3. Since the trip had morphed into a graduation present for him, too, I thought he should have the honor of opening the final information source. It was a long box with a Disney Cruise brochure inside.

There was general disbelief and looks of surprise. "WE'RE GOING ON A CRUISE?"


Radical!! :cool1: :dance3: :cool1:

[Tri-circle-D]

Since I know you read my most recent DCL trip report, I'll jump in here on yours to say great job so far! I love the illustrations you used in lieu of photos! Very original. And funny! Keep up the good work!

TCD

[OurOhana]

Liking the trip report - and the pics you're using - very creative.
I also like the way you told the family about the cruise. Good idea. Can't wait to read more.

[Narnia_girl]

thank you for the encouragement! :flower3:

[Narnia_girl]

We’re off…….

Night before & Day 1, Tuesday:
Rick worked a full day so we left on home about 6:30 p.m.—we are on vacation! Got two miles away when he realized he forgot his flip flops. Turn around and go back… :rolleyes:

We drive the two hours to St. Louis and check into the Riverport Holiday Inn Express where we will be leaving the van for the duration. It’s an okay hotel (wrote a Trip Advisor review) but we spent a horrible night there, mainly because Christian was having trouble breathing. I think hotel rooms are just germ farms and he always manages to be the farmer.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/germs.jpg



We stagger to breakfast in the morning and then take the hotel shuttle to the airport. This will be our youngest children’s first flight. We are flying Southwest so I printed the boarding passes at home and we were in A boarding—that means we all got to sit together, oh, and no checked luggage fee.
The flight goes well and they enjoy it, including the bumpy portion when we passed over some storms. When we land, we take the tram to the main terminal (another thrill) cross the street to a parking garage and pick up our car from Budget. This was a smooth, quick procedure. At the airport we see our first palm trees. We are from Illinois. The only palm trees in Illinois are plastic.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/orlando-airport.jpg


Our next stop is Downtown Disney. It is miserably hot when we get there and we head into McDonalds for lunch. It is very crowded and noisy and not all that clean either. :headache: But when we come out the weather has grown cloudy, and miraculously—much cooler!

We enjoy the Lego store the most, with Christian buying the fill-up-cup and having so much fun filling it. We also enjoy the Lego sculptures and take lots of pictures. Caroline loves the Disney store where we buy an Ariel outfit for her doll, Kit.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/Dreaded_Lego_Dude_at_Downtown_Disne.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/435-free-orlando-legos.jpg
You buy a large cup here for $15 and can fill it with any Legos from the wall. Of course the challenge is to pack in as much as possible. Christian did so and counted over 1500 pieces afterward!


Andrew enjoys the music themed stores and after a few hours we leave DD and head for Cape Canaveral. Drive there in a rain storm. Easily find our hotel, the Residence Inn and check in.


At this point we are pleasantly surprised to learn that the Residence Inn will be having BBQ that night and it’s free. That takes care of the “what’s for dinner” discussion. The meal was generous (cheeseburgers and several side dishes, plus drinks). As we are hauling our stuff into the hotel a man tells us about a tourist who was killed on the beach that day—struck by lightning. We are very sorry to hear this.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/RCMLBRIint0138_j.jpg
(to the left of this counter is another one with more food on it)

The hotel itself is very clean, up-to-date and the staff was top-notch. Our suite was perfect. The pool was a very large size and included a nice hot tub, although by the dark there were lots of floaties in the pool (bugs and leaf debris). Our daughter decides to get out of the pool because as she says "there are too many bugs I don't recognize"! Our overall impression of this hotel was excellent.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/Cocoa-Beach-Hotels-p7_288177_181320.jpg

After dinner we visit Ron Jon’s Surf Shop (not sure why it’s so famous?) and stop at Publix to buy a few food items, and some bottled water to bring onboard.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/ron-jon-surf-shop-cocoa-beach-flori.jpg

We also drive out to see the port. Of course our ship is not there yet, but we get to see the terminal where in just a few hours we’ll be embarking on a DISNEY CRUISE!! Since we can't enter the port parking lot we pass on by until we get to military men and a fenced road...whoops...screeching U-turn..... :eek:

Back at the hotel, we put the bottled water into the freezer (thanks for that tip, TCD). Rick has also purchased 1 (ONE) gigantic can of beer. :3dglasses He enjoys a beer every once in a while, but not enough to drink a 6-pack in three days. We generally enjoy a glass of wine but decide it’s not worth the hassle for such a short trip.


We checked into this hotel about 6 hours ago and it looks like we live here. I spend the rest of the evening repacking suitcases while the kids watch TV shows we don't have at home. Did you know there is a game show inside a Taxi Cab? :confused3 My husband and I choose not to subscribe to cable TV at our house so naturally our poor, deprived children miss out on high quality programming like Taxi Cab trivia. :rolleyes: They think we are Amish. ;) Why do I mention this? Because when we get onboard the cruise with Disney stars, I won't even recognize most of them. :rotfl:

[MagicMe]

Just wanted to tell you that I'm enjoying your trip report!!

I love the way you told your family. Cash Cab is a favorite of ours!!!!

BTW - since I don't have any younger children anymore - I would not have recognized any of the "stars" either. I read another trip report where she talks about the experience and didn't recognize a single name!!! :rotfl:

[Skyw]

More...more.....:cheer2:

Great job so far.

[alwayslisad]

Yahoo another great trip report to sink my teeth into!!! :love:

[DMMarla07860]

love the report so far

I would recognize some of the stars, but some I might not. Now put basketball players on the ship and I can name them all:lmao:

[Tri-circle-D]

Another great installment!

Funny you should mention Cash Cab. I'm not sure if it's a new show, but I had never seen it before either, until just a few days ago. It's pretty entertaining, but from what little I've seen, there aren't many winners on the show. The questions are a bit tough.

Funny comment about the palm trees. Whenever we are at WDW or another place with lots of tourists, it never fails that people are taking pictures of palm trees, or freaking out about a lizard, or some other entertaining nonsense. The family and I are always amused by this. But, my two youngest daughters have never seen snow. Never. So, whenever they do get to see snow, I imagine that they will react like a northerner seeing a palm tree, and the locals will be amused by them. But I digress.

Keep up the good work!

Glad to see some photos (not that I didn't like the clever illustrations).

TCD

[scootch]

Can't wait to hear more...:surfweb:

[Narnia_girl]

Just wanted to tell you that I'm enjoying your trip report!!

I love the way you told your family. Cash Cab is a favorite of ours!!!!

BTW - since I don't have any younger children anymore - I would not have recognized any of the "stars" either. I read another trip report where she talks about the experience and didn't recognize a single name!!! :rotfl:
:lol I only recognized one!

More...more.....:cheer2:

Great job so far.
thank you :flower3:

Yahoo another great trip report to sink my teeth into!!! :love:
It's fun to relive it!

love the report so far

I would recognize some of the stars, but some I might not. Now put basketball players on the ship and I can name them all:lmao:

NFL players for me!! :rotfl:

Another great installment!

Funny you should mention Cash Cab. I'm not sure if it's a new show, but I had never seen it before either, until just a few days ago. It's pretty entertaining, but from what little I've seen, there aren't many winners on the show. The questions are a bit tough.

Funny comment about the palm trees. Whenever we are at WDW or another place with lots of tourists, it never fails that people are taking pictures of palm trees, or freaking out about a lizard, or some other entertaining nonsense. The family and I are always amused by this. But, my two youngest daughters have never seen snow. Never. So, whenever they do get to see snow, I imagine that they will react like a northerner seeing a palm tree, and the locals will be amused by them. But I digress.

Keep up the good work!

Glad to see some photos (not that I didn't like the clever illustrations).

TCD

thank you! Your daughters can come see me in Illinois anytime between Dec. and March and they might get snow. And yes, we were amused by the lizards! ;)

Can't wait to hear more...:surfweb:
thank you! :flower3:

[ilovecraigandcooper]

Loving it narnia girl!!!!! Give us more~

[Carol G]

:confused3: You missed a whole day of posting! :surfweb: I was looking forward to reading more and noticed you hadn't posted on Sunday. I was on a roll and couldn't wait to read more. :banana:

Great TR so far Narnia_girl

[Skyw]

Still waiting.....popcorn:::laundy:

[Narnia_girl]

:confused3: You missed a whole day of posting! :surfweb: I was looking forward to reading more and noticed you hadn't posted on Sunday. I was on a roll and couldn't wait to read more. :banana:

Great TR so far Narnia_girl

Sorry! I know I missed a whole day...two days. It's these kids...they are out of school and wanting to be on my computer all the time. I'm having to fight for the time I need to post! :rolleyes:

Let's move on........

[Narnia_girl]

Thursday
Our sleep Wednesday night is great (probably because our previous night had been awful!) and we awake in the morning excited to get started. I want to be at the terminal about 10 a.m. so I keep pushing the gang to get moving. We pack our frozen water and single beer into the collapsible cooler.

Breakfast is enjoyed on the patio at the Residence Inn. Right around 10 we leave the hotel in our rental car and head to the port.


Rick drops us and the luggage off with the porters and drives the rental car back to Budget. He later reports that it was quick and easy. I give the bags to a porter, and notice the abundance of security dogs.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/securitydog.jpg


The kids and I walk around to the front with our carry-ons and enter the terminal. Security is very quick and all they ask about the cooler is whether it has any ice (no).




Then up the escalator and over to the check-in lines. The terminal is almost empty.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/115920774OLOmIs_fs.jpg

We are about the 8th family in line at this point (10:20 a.m.) and the check in desks say they open at 11:00, but actually they open about 10:30.
The check-in clerk is very friendly and it’s a quick procedure. We then head to the security photo area and have our pictures taken. Afterwards the boys look at the ship’s model while I take Caroline to register for the kids club. Rick returns from the car rental at this point and has his security picture taken.

Now it is wait time. We walk outside and look at the ship, we look at the ship’s model, Mickey comes out and has his picture taken a hundred times, then Minnie switches places with him. My boys aren't interested in having their pix taken and Caroline is too shy, so I just try to get quick shots of the characters between other kids hugging them.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/CopyofIMG_1253_2.jpg

A few times we hear buzzes about the Disney “stars” passing through the terminal and we catch a glimpse of them waiting in a private room. Caroline is getting impatient.
About 11:30 I decide to stand in the short line that has formed. My family follows. At this point we realize all our pictures up to the Minnie one have been deleted. :sad2:
I had asked my son to see if he could check how many that card would hold and he accidentally deleted them all. It’s a bummer for sure, but we’re just starting our cruise so we try to shake it off. Christian is especially upset as he has taken many posed shots of his Lego character as he is writing a picture story; and of course, we lost all the Downtown Disney shots (not sure when we’ll ever get back there).

From here on, the photos are mine.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1255_2.jpg
view of ship from waiting line.


Just then AbsyBabsy walks up and introduces herself and we chat about the surprise cruise she and Degrapevine sprang on their daughters.

At about 11:50, the Disney stars board, we are introduced to the “family of the day” and then it’s time to board #2 passholders (that’s us!).

It all passes by in a rush and I realize I should have taken a posed shot in front of the Mickey ears earlier, it’s just too quick and too many people to do so now. Our cards are scanned and we are on our way!
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1256_2.jpg

Just beyond these gentlemen's heads you can see the photographer's background. They have four of these set up and everyone stops to have their picture taken. It's pretty quick.

Then we are announced and we are on board in the Atrium!!

I had thought we’d go on to Parrot Cay for lunch since I’d read on DIS board about it being open even though they don’t send you there, but when they directed us to Beach Blanket Buffet I obeyed like a lost sheep and headed up top. And it was great, our kids loved being able to be on a ship for the first time, eat in the open air and look out over the harbor. (I think someone said later they actually were turning people away from PC because the Disney stars were in there, but not sure if that's accurate.)

Some of the foods we enjoyed were tilapia (very good), strawberry soup, roasted potatoes, sweet-sour pork (very good), roast beef (so-so), fresh fruit and mac & cheese.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1259_2.jpg
You can see here that for older kids or adults they give you a tray and plate. For little ones, they get a divided tray a la cafeteria style. This works well, I think. :thumbsup2

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1260_2.jpg
Smile with your mouth full!



On the way to BBB we meet another DIS board friend and she generously gives us all the lanyards we need! We also get to see what will become Caroline's favorite spot on the cruise.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1257_2.jpg



This trip is the first time she's seen the ocean!
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1265.jpg



http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1264.jpg



After lunch the guys decide to play ping pong while Caroline takes her first dip in the Mickey pool which at this point has 4-5 kids in it.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1266_2.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1267_2.jpg

She also tries the water slide, which she loves.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1269_2.jpg



Later the guys move over to the foosball table and Chip & Dale came strolling by and played with them. None of them had a camera with them, so no pics.



Andrew and I decide to check out our rooms at about 1:20, we head down to deck 6 and find the ropes still up, but while deciding if we should wait or not, they drop the ropes and we are free to settle in.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1278_2.jpg


The kids are in one room while Rick and I are in another. Our cabin steward, Chris, has the beds set up perfectly for each room.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1275_2.jpg


kids room--beds apart. Note how narrow the space inbetween the boys' beds. This will be a very important factor later on.

This sofa transforms into a single bed which Chris had made up each night for Caroline.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1277_2.jpg

our room--beds together.
If you look at the desk, you can see the little clock that is in each room. Can you read the time from that vantage point across the room? (1:30?) Now imagine it's pitch black. That clock does not light up. That's why DISers say to bring your own lighted clock if you want to know the time.


These are sideways cat. 11s and they really do have a good layout.


I unpack a gift bag that I had brought along for the kids. It contains Mickey headbands for the Pirate party, disposable cameras including an underwater one, a Pirates of the Caribbean night light and other little gifts.

After unpacking some (mostly we live out of the suitcases), we head back up to deck 9 to enjoy the view.

This Carnival ship is in port with us and we will see them again.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1270_2.jpg


The kids discover the joys of Pluto’s Dog House and Pinnochio’s Pizza.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1261_2.jpg

Andrew decides those fruity drinks being offered around the pool are too good to resist and accepts one. The CM does ask if he’s 21 and he responds truthfully (no). So he gets the virgin drink.


Thus concludes the first half of first day onboard.
Next up: Thunder/Lightning



http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/divider.gif


What I learned:
*Checking in for our whole family (including absent hubby) was easy.
*Having read numerous trip reports I knew that being in the terminal was the start of vacation and a special part of our day. Our 8-yr. old did not realize this and perceived it to be one big WAIT. I should have prepared her for what to expect because her whining was a not something I expected!

*Take pictures of the Mickey ears before you are walking through them!

*If you walk under the Mickey slide and follow the wall just a bit you'll find a bathroom where you can put on your swimsuit.

*I gave the kids disposable cameras but they did not get these out til day 2. If I had to do things over I would have given everyone a camera and charged them with taking lots of pictures. My one regret of this trip is not enough pictures. No one else in my family seems to think of taking pictures so if I didn't take it, it didn't get taken. I think I finally show up in a picture on Castaway Cay day so you know I really did take a cruise. :sad2:
[/LIST]

[BethA]

Thursday
Our sleep Wednesday night is great (probably because our previous night had been awful!) and we awake in the morning excited to get started. I want to be at the terminal about 10 a.m. so I keep pushing the gang to get moving. We pack our frozen water and single beer into the collapsible cooler.

Breakfast is enjoyed on the patio at the Residence Inn. Right around 10 we leave the hotel in our rental car and head to the port.


Rick drops us and the luggage off with the porters and drives the rental car back to Budget. He later reports that it was quick and easy. I give the bags to a porter, and notice the abundance of security dogs.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/securitydog.jpg


The kids and I walk around to the front with our carry-ons and enter the terminal. Security is very quick and all they ask about the cooler is whether it has any ice (no).




Then up the escalator and over to the check-in lines. The terminal is almost empty.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/115920774OLOmIs_fs.jpg

We are about the 8th family in line at this point (10:20 a.m.) and the check in desks say they open at 11:00, but actually they open about 10:30.
The check-in clerk is very friendly and it’s a quick procedure. We then head to the security photo area and have our pictures taken. Afterwards the boys look at the ship’s model while I take Caroline to register for the kids club. Rick returns from the car rental at this point and has his security picture taken.

Now it is wait time. We walk outside and look at the ship, we look at the ship’s model, Mickey comes out and has his picture taken a hundred times, then Minnie switches places with him. My boys aren't interested in having their pix taken and Caroline is too shy, so I just try to get quick shots of the characters between other kids hugging them.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/CopyofIMG_1253_2.jpg

A few times we hear buzzes about the Disney “stars” passing through the terminal and we catch a glimpse of them waiting in a private room. Caroline is getting impatient.
About 11:30 I decide to stand in the short line that has formed. My family follows. At this point we realize all our pictures up to the Minnie one have been deleted. :sad2:
I had asked my son to see if he could check how many that card would hold and he accidentally deleted them all. It’s a bummer for sure, but we’re just starting our cruise so we try to shake it off. Christian is especially upset as he has taken many posed shots of his Lego character as he is writing a picture story; and of course, we lost all the Downtown Disney shots (not sure when we’ll ever get back there).

From here on, the photos are mine.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1255_2.jpg
view of ship from waiting line.


Just then AbsyBabsy walks up and introduces herself and we chat about the surprise cruise she and Degrapevine sprang on their daughters.

At about 11:50, the Disney stars board, we are introduced to the “family of the day” and then it’s time to board #2 passholders (that’s us!).

It all passes by in a rush and I realize I should have taken a posed shot in front of the Mickey ears earlier, it’s just too quick and too many people to do so now. Our cards are scanned and we are on our way!
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1256_2.jpg

Just beyond these gentlemen's heads you can see the photographer's background. They have four of these set up and everyone stops to have their picture taken. It's pretty quick.

Then we are announced and we are on board in the Atrium!!

I had thought we’d go on to Parrot Cay for lunch since I’d read on DIS board about it being open even though they don’t send you there, but when they directed us to Beach Blanket Buffet I obeyed like a lost sheep and headed up top. And it was great, our kids loved being able to be on a ship for the first time, eat in the open air and look out over the harbor. (I think someone said later they actually were turning people away from PC because the Disney stars were in there, but not sure if that's accurate.)

Some of the foods we enjoyed were tilapia (very good), strawberry soup, roasted potatoes, sweet-sour pork (very good), roast beef (so-so), fresh fruit and mac & cheese.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1259_2.jpg
You can see here that for older kids or adults they give you a tray and plate. For little ones, they get a divided tray a la cafeteria style. This works well, I think. :thumbsup2

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1260_2.jpg
Smile with your mouth full!



On the way to BBB we meet another DIS board friend and she generously gives us all the lanyards we need! We also get to see what will become Caroline's favorite spot on the cruise.


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This trip is the first time she's seen the ocean!
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After lunch the guys decide to play ping pong while Caroline takes her first dip in the Mickey pool which at this point has 4-5 kids in it.

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She also tries the water slide, which she loves.
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Later the guys move over to the foosball table and Chip & Dale came strolling by and played with them. None of them had a camera with them, so no pics.



Andrew and I decide to check out our rooms at about 1:20, we head down to deck 6 and find the ropes still up, but while deciding if we should wait or not, they drop the ropes and we are free to settle in.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1278_2.jpg


The kids are in one room while Rick and I are in another. Our cabin steward, Chris, has the beds set up perfectly for each room.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1275_2.jpg


kids room--beds apart. Note how narrow the space inbetween the boys' beds. This will be a very important factor later on.

This sofa transforms into a single bed which Chris had made up each night for Caroline.


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our room--beds together.
If you look at the desk, you can see the little clock that is in each room. Can you read the time from that vantage point across the room? (1:30?) Now imagine it's pitch black. That clock does not light up. That's why DISers say to bring your own lighted clock if you want to know the time.


These are sideways cat. 11s and they really do have a good layout.


I unpack a gift bag that I had brought along for the kids. It contains Mickey headbands for the Pirate party, disposable cameras including an underwater one, a Pirates of the Caribbean night light and other little gifts.

After unpacking some (mostly we live out of the suitcases), we head back up to deck 9 to enjoy the view.

This Carnival ship is in port with us and we will see them again.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1270_2.jpg


The kids discover the joys of Pluto’s Dog House and Pinnochio’s Pizza.
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Andrew decides those fruity drinks being offered around the pool are too good to resist and accepts one. The CM does ask if he’s 21 and he responds truthfully (no). So he gets the virgin drink.


Thus concludes the first half of first day onboard.
Next up: Thunder/Lightning



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What I learned:
*Checking in for our whole family (including absent hubby) was easy.
*Having read numerous trip reports I knew that being in the terminal was the start of vacation and a special part of our day. Our 8-yr. old did not realize this and perceived it to be one big WAIT. I should have prepared her for what to expect because her whining was a not something I expected!

*Take pictures of the Mickey ears before you are walking through them!

*If you walk under the Mickey slide and follow the wall just a bit you'll find a bathroom where you can put on your swimsuit.

*I gave the kids disposable cameras but they did not get these out til day 2. If I had to do things over I would have given everyone a camera and charged them with taking lots of pictures. My one regret of this trip is not enough pictures. No one else in my family seems to think of taking pictures so if I didn't take it, it didn't get taken. I think I finally show up in a picture on Castaway Cay day so you know I really did take a cruise. :sad2:
[/LIST]

On our last trip out of 300+ pictures I was in 5!!

[Narnia_girl]

On our last trip out of 300+ pictures I was in 5!!

:hug: Now I don't feel so bad!

[IrenicMom]

Glad to read more!

I'm RARELY in any photos. If it weren't for Joseph's Mom, I wouldn't have been in any in my trip :thumbsup2

[joseph'smom]

I'm only in them b/c I begged people to take pics of us! Advice #1,005: TAKE LOTS OF PICS, and ask others to take pics of you w/ your camera...

[anetnmike]

Oh my gosh I know what you mean! I promise myself I will take pictures of everything I lay eyes on the next time I go and then I get so caught up in the excitement...:banana:
Thank God for my DH's ability to be more grounded and capture me some memories:hug:

[OurOhana]

Still enjoying the trip report - and glad you're having so much fun. Can't wait to read more.

Oh my gosh I know what you mean! I promise myself I will take pictures of everything I lay eyes on the next time I go and then I get so caught up in the excitement...:banana:
Thank God for my DH's ability to be more grounded and capture me some memories:hug:

Ditto. Same thing here. My husband says he's bringing four cameras this time in hopes I'll be inspired to actually take pictures. I did take some last time, but not many after we left port and I couldn't use my iphone camera - that's just so much handier.

[RoyalVizier]

If you look at the desk, you can see the little clock that is in each room. Can you read the time from that vantage point across the room? (1:30?) Now imagine it's pitch black. That clock does not light up. That's why DISers say to bring your own lighted clock if you want to know the time.

Uh, can I just stress here for all of your readers... pitch midnight black! Black like the blackness of having been swallowed into a Heffalump's gut. Way way way black!

Bring a light up clock!

[anetnmike]

4 cameras:rotfl2:
that's a great idea except I am so happy to be in my happy place I'd run off without them!:woohoo:

[barney4liz]

SO glad to see the pics of your sideways Cat. 11! We have 2 sideways Cat. 11's on the 8/16 sailing. Were you on Deck 6 forward? Look forward to hearing more about your trip and how you liked that location. :cool1:

[Narnia_girl]

Uh, can I just stress here for all of your readers... pitch midnight black! Black like the blackness of having been swallowed into a Heffalump's gut. Way way way black!


Bring a light up clock!

:lmao: I loved your illustration on your TR of the inside of a cabin at night. :lmao: :lmao:


SO glad to see the pics of your sideways Cat. 11! We have 2 sideways Cat. 11's on the 8/16 sailing. Were you on Deck 6 forward? Look forward to hearing more about your trip and how you liked that location. :cool1:

Yes, we were on Deck 6 forward. It seemed to be a great location for quiet and very little traffic. It was a bit of hike to get to our room if we didn't get off at the mid-ship elevators but do-able.
Seems that there is a connecting door on deck 6 aft that was often closed, so if we got on/off the aft elevators we had to hike down the opposite side of deck 6 and then cut over and walk some more.

[Narnia_girl]

At 3:00 p.m. we find our way to the Promenade Lounge for our scheduled DIS board meet. It wass fun to get to meet these families. The kids enjoy creating a craft thanks to AbsyBabsy. :disrocks:

Then grlzmom tells us of her fortunate procurement of the Walt Disney Suite and invites us up for a tour. Well, it’s just as nice as you can imagine. Beautiful, soft woodwork throughout. It includes a guest powder room, a master bedroom with large bathroom and whirlpool tub, a library, living room, dining room, second bedroom and another bathroom. And running the length of three rooms is a long verandah. It’s just beautiful. Sorry I didn't take any more pictures of it, but I bet grlzmom did and they are around here somewhere.

Three DIS children enjoying the view from the Walt Disney Suite:

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1281_2.jpg



All the while we are doing our DIS meet and tour, our teen boys had decided to go off on their own and do stuff.
They had heard about a presentation in the Buena Vista Theatre so they wanted to see that.
I’m not sure what they were expecting but they found themselves in the shopping presentation
learning all about jewelry and designer handbags. :lmao:

They said they were easily the youngest attendees and the only males. :rotfl2: Later in our trip, however,
Andrew was able to point out the fashion versatility of the ribbon handbag:

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/30012_brn-dot.jpg




We said goodbye to our new DIS friends and met the boys in the cabin for the safety drill.

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After getting the lifejackets on we were directed down a back staircase to deck 4 where we waited for everyone to show up. It was easy and didn’t take more than 15 minutes, but that’s a long time to be crammed next to sweaty strangers in the Florida heat/humidity. :scared:

Here's something I didn't know: your lifejackets have room numbers on them and they try to check you off as you line up. I assumed they called roll, classroom style, but nope, they are more efficient than that!

Finally, that’s done and we are ready to sail! We drop the lifejackets off and head up to Deck 10 so we can get a good view of the Sail-Away party.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1282.jpg

Pikey (I know his name for TCD's report) has the party going when we arrive and it’s just starting to get in full swing when a couple of drops hit us. We decide to watch from deck 9 in the covered area but before we can move an inch the sky completely opens up and it begins to pour and lightning. :scared1: (Remember a tourist died the day before in Cape Canaveral from a lightning strike.)

Everyone runs for cover. Once inside we hear that the Sail Away party has been relocated to the Atrium, decks 3,4,5. We find a spot on the railing of Deck 5 and watch the party two stories below. It’s just not the same. :sad2:

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I am impressed with Disney at how quickly they can relocate a live production. The characters were all there, CM dancers were in the audience, the music was perfect and everyone on the mail level really seemed to enjoy the party (well almost everyone).

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1290.jpg

But for us being up so high, the celebration aspect was diminished quite a bit. We could have moved down a floor but those were crowded by then, too. While watching the party below we spotted this fun fellow.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1288_2.jpg

The whole time the crowd around him was gyrating to the music, he stood exactly like that. :lmao: He was probably miffed about the missing the horn but his wife was having a good time. :banana:

My own party animal husband had abandoned the celebration by then to head back up top. The rain and pretty much stopped. Seems it just rained long enough to ruin the outdoor party.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1291.jpg
oh, look! My elbow...proof I was onboard that day.


As the party was in full swing I glanced out the deck 5 port holes and saw that we were moving. At that point we gave up the party all together and ran up top to see as we set sail.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1294_2.jpg
You can see that the decks are all wet, but others like us were more interested in the sailing than the party.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1293_2.jpg
We waved to the fine workers at the terminal. We waved to total strangers on land....


And then we heard those beautiful notes on the ship's horn. And for some reason, I was crying. :cloud9:




Next up: our first show and dinner onboard and Bonine revenge

[barney4liz]

Our sailaway party on our last cruise was held inside too, due to horrible weather in PC that day. Oh well, a rainy day on a cruise ship is better than a dry day at work! :thumbsup2

Sooo nice that you got to see that suite. Would love to see it, can only dream of sailing in it. :cloud9:

[missdani416]

"About 11:30 I decide to stand in the short line that has formed. My family follows. At this point we realize all our pictures up to the Minnie one have been deleted. :sad2:
I had asked my son to see if he could check how many that card would hold and he accidentally deleted them all. It’s a bummer for sure, but we’re just starting our cruise so we try to shake it off. Christian is especially upset as he has taken many posed shots of his Lego character as he is writing a picture story; and of course, we lost all the Downtown Disney shots (not sure when we’ll ever get back there). "


Your pictures may not be lost. If you have not formatted the card you can download an image recovery program for free from the internet and it should be able to "find" your lost pictures.

[Narnia_girl]

Your pictures may not be lost. If you have not formatted the card you can download an image recovery program for free from the internet and it should be able to "find" your lost pictures.

I had no idea I could do this. I'm checking into it right now. Thanks for the tip! :flower3:

[lucas]

Great report! Can't wait to read more. :)

ETA: Glad to hear that you liked the Radisson. We're staying there for 1 night before our Thanksgiving cruise.

[Narnia_girl]

Continuing with our first day onboard....
Since it’s been about five hours since lunch and we won’t eat dinner for another three, we all enjoy snacks and ice cream on Deck 9. Andrew had the Cajun chicken and rated it excellent.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1295.jpg

Then we move inside to see the Golden Mickeys. We hurried to get there on time, but did not realize that part of the show was the "red carpet" interviews. We could have easily come 15 minutes later than we did—the theater was about half full. I’m not sure if this pre-show interview always lasts that long, but it consisted of a quick thinking reporter talking to about 8 children, none of who seemed interested in answering questions.

Then the captain and cruise director introductions were done and instructions were given about Nassau and other ship stuff.
Finally, the show started and it was wonderful! Enjoyed every bit of it. And, I found myself crying again. I think it's because nearly every song defined a portion of my children's lives. The Lion King was Andrew's first real movie at age 3; Christian's was Toy Story; When I was pregnant with Caroline, Christian wanted to name her Mulan. It was their childhood replaying in one beautiful show. :sad1:


I was mindful of the “no flash photography” warnings and took a few pics with the flash off, but I guess my arms weren’t steady enough and they didn’t turn out well.

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After the Golden Mickeys, we had time to return to our cabin and dress for dinner. The cruise director had let us know that everyone had a dinner reservation and there was no need to line up outside the restaurant. So we heeded those directions and took our time. A lot of people must not have known this, however, as they had formed a long line outside of Tritons. :rolleyes:

As I mentioned, we brought along a cooler with frozen water and one beer. I had never mentioned to our cabin steward to add ice to the cooler and honestly I didn't think it needed it. My husband, however, had a terrible fear that his $1.75 beer was going to get hot and thus be wasted. :headache: So when we went to dinner, he carried that honker with us. So while everyone else was standing in line for the restaurant, we were lounging around waiting for him to finish. :rolleyes2

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1305_2.jpg


I'm pretty sure there's a Jeff Foxworthy joke in here somewhere:
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After the guzzling ceased we headed into Tritons. No waiting time, great seating service and attention by the head waiter. Since we were a party of five I assumed we’d be placed by ourselves or with a party of 3. Instead, we were placed at a large table with another party of 5, all women (ranging from a toddler to grandmother).

They were already seated when we arrived. I tried several times throughout the dining rotation to engage them in small talk and be friendly. And while they would politely answer my questions (how was your day? Is this your first cruise, etc…) they didn’t seem interested in talking to us. By the second night it was “hello” and pretty much nothing more. I’m sure they also thought us very weird for taking food pictures every night. :hippie:

Our server for the cruise was Jojo from India. He was wonderful and we would be happy to have him again. The assistant was Izabella from Macedonia and she, too, was just as sweet and helpful as could be. We were very well cared for.

About this time I began to really feel the movement of the ship. :faint:My head had a dull ache which I attributed to not drinking enough water, but as the motion kept up I added a queasy stomach to the mix. I remembered that drinking water and eating well were effective in fighting off altitude sickness, so that must work on motion sickness, too, right?

Hoping it was true, I dug in.

These are some of the foods we enjoyed.
Tomato-basil soup—excellent!
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1309_2.jpg


Chef Luis French onion soup—excellent!
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1308_2.jpg

Rick enjoyed the chilled jumbo shrimp appetizer.

Crispy roast duck with Napa cabbage, potato cake and pomegranate jus. Andrew had this and declared it excellent. I tried the duck and just didn’t care for it, but I think part of that was mental (I’m eating Donald Duck).
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1311_2.jpg

Christian had the Triton’s seared sea bass which he rated a 5 out of 10. Said it was okay but not a lot of flavor. His meal included a potato crisp garnish which he said was a cross between crepe paper and a communion wafer.
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Rick had the grilled beef tenderloin which he said was very good and the mashed potatoes which were “decent”.

I ordered the Porcini mushroom-stuffed pasta in vegetable broth. Jojo tried to steer me towards another entrée and I should have listened. :headache: The pasta was fairly bland and not to my liking.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1310.jpg

We had informed Jojo that we’d be participating in the play and dine option so Caroline was served her Mac and cheese first. Right about 9 p.m. the CMs showed up and she went away with them.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1307_2.jpg

For dessert, Andrew tried the no-sugar added chocolate cheesecake and loved it.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1313_2.jpg

Rick had the ….Grand Marnier with vanilla sauce and also raved about it. I had the trio, of which I enjoyed duo.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1314.jpg

We took lots of photos of the food, but not very many of our family. The ship’s photographer did come by and we posed but didn’t end up buying those.
After dinner, we changed back into casual clothes and I took one Bonine, remembering that they could cause drowsiness, I didn’t want to fall asleep just yet.

About this time we received a page that Caroline wanted to be picked up. She was disappointed in the Oceaneer’s Lab. In our pre-cruise days she had watched the DCL promo DVD several times and couldn’t wait to get on the slides she saw. What she found out was that as an 8-yr. old she was in the Lab and it was mostly video games, computers and some other board games (at that time). I guess she’s still enough of a little kid that she wanted to active play and really I didn’t want to park her there just to play video games either. We did walk across the hall and talk to the nice CMs in the Oceaneer’s Club and they said that anytime it listed “Slide Fun” in our Navigator that she was free to come in and enjoy the slides. We noted those times, but it ended up not working out for us to go back. I don’t think she set foot in the club/lab the rest of the cruise.

We moseyed down to deck four to watch some shuffleboard. It is just so relaxing and beautiful there that I made a mental note to try and steal some time to come back here with a book and relax. There was an older couple relaxing in the lounge chairs nearby and I could tell the woman wasn’t sleeping but thoroughly relaxed in the atmosphere. :cloud9:

After a time we headed back up to Deck 9 and watched a portion of a Corbin Bleu movie while enjoying a slice of Pinnochio’s pizza. Okay, we enjoyed two slices. :laughing:

At this point we are full and tired and not all that interested in the jump rope movie so we called it a night. I thought the Bonine helped with my queasy stomach so I took another one hoping it would last into the next day. By this time I was wiped out and our bed was very comfortable. The kids, however, still had some energy so they stayed up and ordered room service. (separate rooms...very good idea) :thumbsup2

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Something I learned:

It's probably okay to get to the Golden Mickeys right at the stated start time or even a little late....unless you like the pre-show interviews.
You can try to engage strangers in small talk but for whatever reason, they just may not be that into you! :hippie:
Dine and play is a great service, but the kids clubs might not be for everyone.



Tomorrow: Nassau Segway

[lucas]

Enjoying the continuation of your cruise report.

I had to laugh about your hubby with his 1 beer. And also it cracked me up about strangers maybe not being that into you. :rotfl:

[OurOhana]

Ooh - Can't wait to hear what you thought of the segwey tour. I'm curious if you thought it was easy to use - I've never used one (and am not the most coordinated) but it looks like fun.

That's a shame about your tablemates. I've not heard many people say they had similar experiences. We really worried about sitting with strangers, but ended up loving them - and we're even going on our next cruise together. I wouldn't have guessed that would have happened. But it sounds like you enjoyed your dinners regardless.

[disneyfaninaz]

Enjoying your report.

I can totally relate with having a 8 year old DD who did not jazz to the Oceaneer's Lab.

Also, about the sea sickness. I have never had drowsiness while using Bonine and it really does work best if you start taking it before you feel sick. We took one every day during our cruise and never felt anything. We also didn't have the stabilizers working and we rocked at night.

[Ware Bears]

Really enjoying your report. :goodvibes

[missdani416]

Great job on your trip report! :thumbsup2 I can't wait to read more.

[hopeforus]

I am having such a fun time reading your review.:goodvibes I am thinking of something similar for my family next summer. Also, I am from Illinios - about 2.5 hours from St. Louis - we might be neighbors.

Can't wait to hear more.

[IrenicMom]

Our server for the cruise was Jojo from India. He was wonderful and we would be happy to have him again. The assistant was Izabella from Macedonia and she, too, was just as sweet and helpful as could be. We were very well cared for.

I had Jojo and Izabella, too!!! They were darling. I truly enjoyed their service - glad to hear that you did, as well!!

[pmama]

Loving your Wonder TR!

Interesting that your 8 yo was bored in the terminal. I have an 8 yo and 5 yo girls. I can't decide whether to do early entry at MK that morning and arrive at the port at around noon or to arrive at the terminal early. Sounds like if my kiddos are like yours they'd rather have a couple hours at MK in the morning.:confused3

Looking forward to reading more.:goodvibes

[barney4liz]

Ooh - Can't wait to hear what you thought of the segwey tour. I'm curious if you thought it was easy to use - I've never used one (and am not the most coordinated) but it looks like fun.

I can't wait to hear about the Segway tour, too, because we are booked on the same excursion 2 weeks from today!! :goodvibes

OurOhana -- our family did a Segway tour a year or so ago in a state park in the Amelia Island area. We had never done it before, but it was easy to learn and soooooo much fun! DD is thrilled that we are going to do the Nassau Segway tour, so I really can't wait to hear the report.

Paging Narnia Girl! :cutie:

[Narnia_girl]

Thanks for the kind words and encouragement. I'm waiting til tomorrow to post about segway tour because the guys took some pictures using a disposable camera and I just took it today to be developed.

Enjoying the continuation of your cruise report.

I had to laugh about your hubby with his 1 beer. And also it cracked me up about strangers maybe not being that into you. :rotfl:

thank you!
Maybe we should have given the strangers our beer...that might have perked things up a bit. :rotfl:


Ooh - Can't wait to hear what you thought of the segwey tour. I'm curious if you thought it was easy to use - I've never used one (and am not the most coordinated) but it looks like fun.

That's a shame about your tablemates. I've not heard many people say they had similar experiences. We really worried about sitting with strangers, but ended up loving them - and we're even going on our next cruise together. I wouldn't have guessed that would have happened. But it sounds like you enjoyed your dinners regardless.

We did enjoy dinner and I'm sure those folks were nice people.

Enjoying your report.

I can totally relate with having a 8 year old DD who did not jazz to the Oceaneer's Lab.

Also, about the sea sickness. I have never had drowsiness while using Bonine and it really does work best if you start taking it before you feel sick. We took one every day during our cruise and never felt anything. We also didn't have the stabilizers working and we rocked at night.

I assumed it was the Bonine as it affected me the next day, too, but I am senstive to meds making me sleepy.

Really enjoying your report. :goodvibes

thank you!

Great job on your trip report! :thumbsup2 I can't wait to read more.

thanks!

I am having such a fun time reading your review.:goodvibes I am thinking of something similar for my family next summer. Also, I am from Illinios - about 2.5 hours from St. Louis - we might be neighbors.

Can't wait to hear more.
thanks...are you north, south or east of St. Louise? If you are north, then we probably are 'neighbors'.

I had Jojo and Izabella, too!!! They were darling. I truly enjoyed their service - glad to hear that you did, as well!!

:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

Loving your Wonder TR!

Interesting that your 8 yo was bored in the terminal. I have an 8 yo and 5 yo girls. I can't decide whether to do early entry at MK that morning and arrive at the port at around noon or to arrive at the terminal early. Sounds like if my kiddos are like yours they'd rather have a couple hours at MK in the morning.:confused3

Looking forward to reading more.:goodvibes
thanks. Not sure what to tell you about kids. I've never been to MK but it seems like you'd be packing in a very full day if you did that early and then the excitement of the cruise all day. However, there is that hour drive where they could nap. I think my daughter just wasn't prepared for the waiting, that's my fault!
Whatever you decide, I hope it's a great trip/cruise for you. :)

[OurOhana]

Loving your Wonder TR!

Interesting that your 8 yo was bored in the terminal. I have an 8 yo and 5 yo girls. I can't decide whether to do early entry at MK that morning and arrive at the port at around noon or to arrive at the terminal early. Sounds like if my kiddos are like yours they'd rather have a couple hours at MK in the morning.:confused3

Looking forward to reading more.:goodvibes

Our daughter was 3 on our last cruise, and we got there as soon as the port opened (actually had to wait a few minutes for it to open.) Anyway, there are TVs in there, though not great reception as I remember. But she kept pretty busy. Some mom far more prepared than me brought a game for her kids to play, and they invited my daughter to play with them. We did bring snacks with us. The time really flew by for us.

[Tri-circle-D]

A few comments:

1. Great job on the Pikey pic's!

2. I'm glad your DH has his priorities straight, and drank all of his beer. Good show!

3. We also had JoJo as our head server! He was great!

4. We are also a party of five, and have never been seated with another group, except on one cruise where we had our reservations linked with a Disboard group. We never made a request one way or the other. I have seen some awkward looking table assignments. So far, we've been lucky not to have one.

That's all.

So, time for another update from you.

TCD

[PixieDustandEeyore]

I was just wondering if this was a 3 day or 4 day cruise? :)
Next.. I love your TR so far...makes me excited to go on a cruise next year...

[TotallyAngelic]

I am really enjoying your trip report - thanks for sharing! I love your words of wisdom at the end of each installment - how true! My 14 year old was just not into the teens club - he set foot in there once and when the CM asked if he wanted to stay and join in with something he replied "no offence but I have better things to do!" - it turns out that organised group activities are not everyone's cup of tea! ( and pre-cruise I had thought he would never be out of the teen club!)

[KelsiesMommy]

loving the TR so far! We're looking at taking our very first cruise (ans kids) for DH's 40th on the Wonder in Feb, so all your info is GREAT!!! Can't wait to read more

[Narnia_girl]

I was just wondering if this was a 3 day or 4 day cruise? :)
Next.. I love your TR so far...makes me excited to go on a cruise next year...

It was a 3-nighter. (and thanks!)

I am really enjoying your trip report - thanks for sharing! I love your words of wisdom at the end of each installment - how true! My 14 year old was just not into the teens club - he set foot in there once and when the CM asked if he wanted to stay and join in with something he replied "no offence but I have better things to do!" - it turns out that organised group activities are not everyone's cup of tea! ( and pre-cruise I had thought he would never be out of the teen club!)

that's funny because my 14-yr. old never went to the teen club either; and we were given permission for our 18-yr. old to go and he wasn't interested either. Maybe on a longer cruise they would have had a chance?

loving the TR so far! We're looking at taking our very first cruise (ans kids) for DH's 40th on the Wonder in Feb, so all your info is GREAT!!! Can't wait to read more

thank you!

[Narnia_girl]

Day 2 onboard

We wake up early and go up top to watch as we approach Nassau.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1315.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1316.jpg


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1317.jpg
The Pilot boat approaches

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1320_2.jpg


Then it’s breakfast at BBB--gosh it's nice to be able to choose from so many great options for breakfast!

The guys have their excursion with the Nassau Segway Tour this morning so about 9:45 they make their way to their meeting point and disembark. Caroline and I are staying onboard. We are able to spot the guys as they walk to the port:

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1322_2.jpg


There are only two other people on this excursion. After disembarking, the group walks to the port and boards a taxi van. The drive is about 20 minutes and my boys describe is as "wild" or "cool".
Once at the Segway starting point, they are given 15 minutes of training. Then they hit trails. They love the riding but say the aqueducts are not that interesting (this is sort of a selling point, that you will see ancient aqueducts) but these are also teen boys so make what you will of their lack of interest in ancient water systems.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/003_24A.jpg

Aquaducts notwithstanding they describe the scenery as nice and the climate as extremely hot.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/002_25A.jpg


After a while the group stops and takes a break and are provided with a bottle of cold water.

Some areas of the trail were muddy and Christian got his Segway stuck and wiped out. He was pretty muddy on his arms and legs and he cut the palm of his hand. Their tour guide personally cleaned him off, wiping all the mud away.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/005_22A.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/004_23A.jpg


The tour provider also took a picture of the guys ($10 for a 5x7):

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/scan0001.jpg

Meanwhile back on the ship:

Caroline wanted to get into the pool right away. At this point I felt so tired I could hardly keep my eyes open. I didn’t know why I was that sleepy. Normally I prefer an absolute quiet, dark room with a fan blowing. Here I was on a deck chair, in the heat and sun, surrounded by noisy children and I couldn’t stay awake. Later on I realized it was probably the lingering effects of the Bonine as I am very much a wimp when it comes to medications making me drowsy.

Caroline was happy in the Mickey pool so I found a reasonably comfy chair and allowed myself to doze for a few minutes. This is the view I had from the chair:

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1323_2.jpg

When I opened my eyes about 20 minutes later a ship was gliding past me! I'm not sure I can convey how disorienting this was. :crazy: Close your eyes and see one thing, open them what feels like a few minutes later and a massive hulk is sliding by. I thought we were moving! As I hadn’t been updeck I did not know the Carnival Sensation was approaching and suddenly they were all I could see.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1326_2.jpg

This is the same ship we saw at Port Canaveral. They left port before us, but arrived in Nassau after us. Not sure where they were in the meantime.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1327.jpg

Around 12:30 we met up with the guys and they told us all about their Segway Tour. They all loved it.

We went back to BBB for lunch at sat with AbsyBabsy and her DD. While there she pointed out Tiffany Thornton eating in a nearby booth. :cutie:

Another view of Nassau with Atlantis

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1329.jpg

After lunch we decided to go back to Nassau for a quick look around. It was Independence Day so several shops were closed. We walked through the port (most of those shops inside the building were closed) and then out into the general direction of the Straw Market.

We were approached a dozen times with all kinds of offers (taxis, tours, hair braids, souvenirs, etc…) Our eldest son drew lots of comments because of his bandana including at least one reference to Rambo :hippie:

We walked along to Senor Frogs and stopped because the road ends in their front door.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1332.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1333.jpg

I think most of us had had enough heat and culture during this stroll and we were anxious to get back on board.

I get claustrophobic just looking at this. There was no way I was going in there:

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1334_2.jpg

Rambo, however, wanted to shop, so Dad stayed with him while I took our other two back. They ended up buying cheap T-shirts and expensive T-shirts (Hard Rock Cafe).



On our way "home":

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1335.jpg


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1330_2.jpg

We saw our friendly assistant server, Izabella, while near the ship and she recognized us. Re-boarding was quick and easy.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/divider.gif

Something I learned:
* I probably did not give Nassau a fair shake. I imagine someone being dropped off in one tiny part of my town and judging the entire area by those few blocks and, of course, that's not fair. That being said, I was very happy to get back on board the ship. Nassau's port area was not my thing. Our oldest son, however, enjoyed it and felt comfortable.

*I should have tested how motion sickness meds would affected me.


Next up: Corbin Bleu concert

[morgtroy]

Just did my first cruise, it was on royal caribbean, but I'm planning a disney cruise for 2011.
Love your TR. Can't wait to read more of it.
Looks like you have a terrific family!

That straw market is crazy hot and lacking space.:)

[KelsiesMommy]

Wondering how you fared the rest of the cruise- I'm sure I'll be heavily medicated for motion sickness- now my thought is- which would be worse, being sick and dizzy all the time or tired and "drugged out"

We have friends who run a segway tour business- those things are FUN!

[Narnia_girl]

Just did my first cruise, it was on royal caribbean, but I'm planning a disney cruise for 2011.
Love your TR. Can't wait to read more of it.
Looks like you have a terrific family!

That straw market is crazy hot and lacking space.:)

I'm interested in trying an RC cruise someday myself. Thanks for your kind words. :)

Wondering how you fared the rest of the cruise- I'm sure I'll be heavily medicated for motion sickness- now my thought is- which would be worse, being sick and dizzy all the time or tired and "drugged out"

We have friends who run a segway tour business- those things are FUN!

I didn't need to use any more meds for the motion sickness. I felt some heavy motion one other time but it didn't bother near as much.

[Waltworshiper]

Can't wait to read more!

[MomlvsGoofy]

Enjoying your TR. Thanks for all the info. on the cruise.

[Narnia_girl]

We are onboard the Wonder after spending an hour in Nassau:

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1340.jpg

Carrie returned to her favorite spot, the Mickey Pool, as it seems every other child onboard did because the Goofy Pool was by this time closed to prepare for the upcoming Corbin Bleu event.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1433.jpg

not sure if you can read that posted note?



http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1342.jpg



At 4 p.m. the party started with some music and then Corbin came out and answered some questions from the audience (“softball” questions, I’m guessing were pre-written).

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1343.jpg

Pikey introducing Corbin.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1344.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1345_2.jpg

Answering questions

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1346_2.jpg

They had the full boom camera and it was a major set up job for their production crew.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1341_2.jpg
He was cute and charming and every spot in the area gave a good view so that was a positive.



http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1347.jpg

The downside was it was very hot and taking a long time. After the questions he went to get ready for the concert.


Caroline had had enough by then and just wanted to swim (fine with me!)

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1349.jpg

Christian got in the Mickey pool with her but said he was afraid of putting his head underwater for fear of getting kicked.

Rick and Andrew (aka Sunshine aka Rambo) returned about this time so Rick and I took this opportunity to get in the Quiet Cove pool. There were about 8 adults in the pool or on the edges while we were there. There was also a very talented Nassau trio playing island music. We enjoyed them for a while, but truthfully, we were looking forward to a QUIET Cove and they were not. Despite their talent, they were just too loud for the small area. (Maybe they had turned it up to compete with Corbin??)

We all got out of the pools and dressed so we could see UP in 3-D. Before we went to the theatre, we walked back up to deck 9 to get a few slices of pizza and soda.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1348_2.jpg

The concert was widing down about then I think and the other Disney stars came out on stage. (Can you spot them?) I’m not sure if they sang or just waved or what as we didn’t stick around. Does anyone claim that gentleman on Deck 10 who seems to be waving at me?


UP was wonderful although I’m still not sure if the 3-D aspect added anything? :3dglasses We’ll certainly buy this one for our home collection. Also, there was no problem with us taking the snacks in (we made sure to remove all our trash!).

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1350.jpg

After the movie we went back up to deck 10 to watch the ship pull out of port.



http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1352_2.jpg

We waved to the friendly people on the Sensation, then enjoyed the beautiful scenery and sunset as we pulled out.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1353.jpg


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1354.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1356.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1357.jpg

We could see Bahamians celebrating their Independence Day and enjoyed watching one brave (crazy) dude on a jet ski as he made a complete circle around the ship.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1358.jpg

I think this is our 'brave' jet skier in the lower left of the pic.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1360.jpg

I thought this sunset looked a little like Mickey ears.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/divider.gif

What I learned: Quiet Cove means you won't be disturbed by children's noises; it doesn't mean it will be quiet. :rolleyes:

Enjoy a snack in the theatre, just be sure to clean up.

The special event of having a Disney star is nice especially if you are really into that star, but it creates an inconvenience for others (closed pools, crowds, etc...)

[mmmears]

I am really enjoying your trip report so far. Can't wait to read the next installment!:goodvibes

[ibela]

I'm really loving your report! :goodvibes

[AbsyBabsy]

OK Narnia Girl - you've had long enough to relax and get out of cruise mode- time for the Rest of the Story......I'm waiting.......

Loving your trip report - brings me back.

[Narnia_girl]

OK Narnia Girl - you've had long enough to relax and get out of cruise mode- time for the Rest of the Story......I'm waiting.......

Loving your trip report - brings me back.


I KNOW! I feel terrible for taking so long. I should not have started this report after I got back because I was co-director for our vacation Bible school and that took the rest of July, then when that was done, I was preparing/packing/taking my son to college. Too much to do!

I'm going to try to get this thing, finished, however!

[Narnia_girl]

We changed for dinner and headed to Animator’s Palate.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1362.jpg
You can see that Andrew even put on his Black and White (dress?) bandana for the black/white color scheme of Animator's. He had a red one in his back pocket (?) and put it on when the colors started to change. You can also see the bracelet he bought from a Nassau vendor. (Not sure what's up with Christian?)


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1366_2.jpg

For an appetizer we enjoyed the Taleggio Cheese Flatbread. It had a smoky BBQ flavor and included carmelized onions and potato chunks. One of my favorite things I had to eat on board. :thumbsup2


I tried the Butternut Squash soup but it was too sweet for my taste.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1377_2.jpg
Caroline had chicken strips and a baked potato (no problem with this instead of fries).



http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1378_2.jpg

Andrew had the beef tenderloin with Wasabi mashed potatoes. He loved the potatoes; I thought they were awful.



http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1379.jpg

Christian had a chicken breast and baked potato. sorry bout picture quality



http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1380.jpg

I had the Penne with pancetta and smoked turkey breast. It was excellent although it would have been just as good without the turkey.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1383.jpg

This shows the glowing Tinkerbell clip that they offered and of course, we bought. $5.95 for a Tinkerbell cup filled with smoothie and this clip. She wore the clip in her hair that night, but I believe it died out by the next day. As far as I can tell, it cannot be recharged. The cup has held up well, however. She uses it daily and it goes through the dishwasher.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1384.jpg
dessert? I think this is the smore cake?


Dinner was going on very late and I was concerned about making it to the Pirates in the Caribbean party.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1385.jpg

We hurried from the dining room to our staterooms to put on our pirate gear then headed to deck 10. This is a great spot for watching the folks below and the guys in our group enjoyed it.

Caroline and I wanted to be in on more of the action so we staked out a spot near the whirlpool on deck 9. The music and characters were so much fun and we enjoyed the atmosphere a lot.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1394.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1399.jpg

Andrew took several pictures from his vantage point on the upper deck.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/IMG_1402_2.jpg

When Mickey came soaring across the sky we all cheered. I know they do this over and over, and yet it still feels so special to see it! Then the music started and the fireworks exploded and I was crying again! It was just amazing! That was probably the best part of the cruise for me.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1414.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1425.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1415_2.jpg


After the party the buffet opened but we were too full to eat anymore.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1431.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%203%20trip/IMG_1430_2.jpg
What is this? Two pirates facing each other??


We settled in on the deck to watch the Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl. pirate: That lasted about 1/2 an hour and we were all ready to call it a night.

Back in our staterooms Christian wanted to order room service but I told him it was too late. At 12:30 Rick and I went to bed. I’m sure the kids stayed up watching TV so who knows what time they finally fell asleep?

*side note: We got the usual mini bag of honey-roasted peanuts on the flight to Orlando. Christian loved them so when we stopped at the Publix in Cocoa Beach to buy water (and one beer!) we bought him a can of honey roasted peanuts…. keep that in mind for the next installment.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/divider.gif

Something I learned: If you have late seating for dinner, dress in the pirate gear ahead of time or take it with you. While we were not late to the party, it had already started and the area was crowded when we got there.

[Tri-circle-D]

'at a girl!

You can do it!

You can finish this trip report.

Thanks for you latest installment.

And, for the foreshadowing about the honey roasted peanuts.

I am on pins and needles! . . .

TCD

[Narnia_girl]

thanks TCD, you are a good encourager! :)

[Narnia_girl]

“knock, knock”

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/plainblackbackground.jpg


Huh? Wha?

“knock, knock”

Since I am closet to the door, I stumble over and open it.

“I threw up”.

Okay, now I’m awake. It is 6:15 a.m.

(If you have a weak stomach, catch up with us later……….)


Christian is standing there looking pale. I follow him back to his room and am greeted by the smell first.
Remember that small space between the two beds? That’s where he chose to deposit his clothes the night before. They are coated with, um, ...glop. So is his bed and his brother’s bed.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/day%202%20trip/IMG_1275_2.jpg

here are the beds in better, cleaner times...see how narrow the space between them?

Andrew is standing there not at all amused at being woke up because someone was puking on him. Caroline is managing to sleep through all this. Rick and I begin to clean up the mess. We have to remove all the linens from both beds, then scrape the floor, nightstand, clothes, etc…..

We give Christian a trash can which he uses a few more times. I give him Bonine figuring he’s seasick.

Everyone else goes back to sleep but I’m wide awake at this point.


I go up top and get some coffee and watch while we pull into Castaway Cay. It’s a beautiful day.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/IMG_1434.jpg
Mickey is quiet at this time of morning.


After a while I head back down to the room, my whole family is sleeping (what luck!) I pack up our beach stuff and wake everyone. Christian is still not feeling great. I notify Chris, our cabin steward, who is very kind about the whole situation. I feel terrible for the mess but I’ve cleaned it as best as I can. He assures me they’ll have the carpets cleaned. (Yes we upped his tip amount.)

But then he does give me a heads-up about what to expect. He says that Christian needs to get better and fast. If he continues to be sick he’ll have to see the doctor and they will most likely quarantine him. He says it’s probably not seasickness but Norovirus. :sad2:

I am heartsick at this point. :sad1: Months of preparing and anticipating and this poor child who always suffers with his health is going to miss the most fun day of all?
He heaves one more time then falls asleep. Caroline continues to sleep and I sit with the two of them while Rick and Andrew go eat breakfast.

When they return Caroline and I go up and eat. We return to the room and I gather our beach stuff. I don’t want the other kids to miss out, too.

It’s at this point that we learn that the boys stayed up late the night before and were hungry. Since I had forbidden ordering room service, Christian polished off the can of honey-roasted peanuts. And he decided the dump all the sugar at the bottom of the can into his stomach. Hmmm, this is sounding more and more like a case of self-induced misery*.

Rick volunteers to stay onboard with Christian while I take Andrew and Caroline to the beach. We agree to meet at 11 a.m. at Cookies. We leave the ship well after 9 a.m.; it’s very hot already. We had intended for the boys to do the Teen Wild Side excursion today but had not booked it yet because Andrew needed special approval (since he’s 18). I’m so glad now that we had not followed through on that or we would have been out the money.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/IMG_1436.jpg
We notice these CMs suspended from the ship painting or cleaning. (Isn't this Goofy's responsibility?)

Following the advice of fellow DIS-ers, we continue down the beach until we are near the play structure in the water. The area is already crowded but there are plenty of open seats so we stake our claim.


http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/IMG_1437_2.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/IMG_1438.jpg

Andrew and Caroline get in the water right away and have fun playing.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/IMG_1446-1.jpg


Then look who shows up:
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/IMG_1444.jpg

He is very funny, and totally in character.
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/IMG_1443_2.jpg

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/IMG_1442-1.jpg



About 10:50 I go up to Cookies to meet Rick and Christian thinking they might be out early. I wait and I wait. Finally about 11:25 they show up. Christian is feeling much better although not top notch.

We alternate eating lunch at Cookies (Christian is not interested in that).

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/IMG_1445.jpg
Caroline plays in the water with her DIS friends.

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l162/SandiLyn88/IMG_1447_2-1.jpg

We all enjoy the beach and the water.
The boys do some snorkeling.

We had brought our own masks so they rented the fins. Andrew seems to love this. He snorkels for two hours and is then exhausted.

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One of their stateroom gifts I gave them was a disposable underwater camera.

At this point in the afternoon all the kids are tired and want to return to the ship. Caroline is not a big fan of the salt water or the fact that she’s swimming with fish.

Next up: Serenity Bay & the meltdowns....

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Something I learned:

There is plenty of cold water available on Castaway Cay. Although at one point, only one soda fountain was open (made for some very long lines) I could always get water. Next time I will bring a refillable water bottle and not worry about getting sand in the open cups they provide.

I should have warned Caroline about salt water; never even occured to me to do so.

*regarding Christian. Two days after we returned from vacation, he got sick with flu-like symptoms. I was concerned he had picked up H1N1. A trip to the MD confirmed he had a sinus infection; and that his sinuses had been dripping back into his throat, which is also a possible contributing factor to him throwing up onboard. Really I think it was the junk food so late at night, but it might have been a combination. Either way, he was fine within 6 hours and we don't believe he had anything that was contagious.

[hopelea]

More PLEASE!!! Loved reading it so far!! So sorry to hear he got sick!!
My parents have a sideways cabin booked...does it seem roomier?

[AbsyBabsy]

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Caroline plays in the water with her DIS friends.

Hey that's Abi playing with Caroline!

Loving your report!

[Mich123]

Enjoying your report! Love the details and the food pictures...helps me to plan for our upcoming 3 night cruise on the Wonder!