So list checking did work out... both times. 3/7/10 - FINISHED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[PNO4TE]

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/December%202008%20WDW%20LARGE/61517dec.jpg

Trip Report #1 Starts Here:.
Trip Report #1 - Day 1 at post #304 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34805497&postcount=304)
Trip Report #1 - Day 2 at post #310 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34815618&postcount=310)

Trip Report #2 Starts Here:.
Trip Report #2 - Days 1 & 2 at post #321 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34841951&postcount=321)
Day 3 @ post #322 and continued on post #323 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34843537&postcount=322)
Day 4 @ post #333 and continued on post #334 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34854753&postcount=333)
Candlelight Processional Video! post #353 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34924480&postcount=353)
Day 5 @ post 371 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35042405&postcount=371)
Day 6 @ post 372 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35044615&postcount=372)
Day 7 @ post 384 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35238131&postcount=384)
Day 8 is @ post 385, but the DIS is messing up the links...
Day 9 @ post 402 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35672827&postcount=402)
Day 10 @ post 411 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35729323&postcount=411)
Day 11 (the last day!) @ post 412 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35729512&postcount=412)

I am still in the midst of my October PTR but my December trips are getting in the way. :rotfl2: So I decided to start a December PTR that will encompass two trips.

The cast of characters (and we are that!) are:

Me - 58 year old lover of all this stuff.
myBob (to differentiate between all the other Bob's out there!) - 59 year old lover of vacations. Anywhere.
http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/Sept%20WDW%20LARGE/September2008WDWPhotoPass013.jpg

Occasional guest performers:

Sandy - first online WDW friend I ever met in person. That was 11 years ago, I think!
Val - Sandy's best friend from all the way back to elementary school.
(We have all three traveled together before.)

New Cast Members!!!
Laura (RachelTori) - a DIS friend
Diana (DisneyBride'03) - a DIS friend

various other DIS friends as well as friends I have yet to meet! :goodvibes

Kathrin - 31 year old DD
Kristin - 23 year old DD
http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/December%202008%20WDW%20LARGE/46aacc94.jpg

Here is what is happening:

TRIP ONE: I am meeting two "old" friends at WDW for 48 hours just to do the MVMCP on December 6, and Osborne Lights. That trip is December 5-7. And it is literally just 48 hours! I am also lucky enough to have a bunch of other DISers who will be there that weekend and we are having lunch together at Mama Melrose on my arrival day. I think the count is up to 14 now! Sandy is a DVC owner and had "spare points" just burning a hole in her pocket (I think I may have rented all her other points for the year for our October trip! :lmao: ). So she booked a studio at AKV and invited me to tag along with her and Val. She knows I can't get away in December until all my recitals are over but she asked anyway. For once her time frame and mine worked perfectly and I will be able to join them for this whirlwind trip! Val has never been to WDW during the holiday season so it will be delightfully fun to see it from her perspective. Oh, none of us are bringing DHs or children on this trip!! :dance3:

TRIP TWO: This is our annual family trip to WDW for Christmas. We started way back in 1996, and have gone every year but one. This is trip number 13 :goodvibes and is happening December 18-27. We are still working out who will arrive when and how we are all getting there but we have rooms booked at POFQ for the 19th-27th so our time frame is completely covered.

I will add more a little bit at a time and some of it will probably be moved over from my October PTR. I figured I had better get this up and running since I make our ADRs on Sunday morning!!

I hope you enjoy our holiday celebration! :santa:

ADR Planning: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33633844&postcount=9
ADRs We Got: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33645305&postcount=24
ADRs We Tweaked: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33988562&postcount=48
Travel Plans Updated: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34065107&postcount=54 and http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34078184&postcount=60

[jpmom97]

Sounds great!!! Can't wait to read more! I will be there for some of the same dates too!

[PNO4TE]

Sounds great!!! Can't wait to read more! I will be there for some of the same dates too!

Well, that didn't take long at all! :welcome: And I hope you enjoy your trip as much as I know we will!!

[PNO4TE]

I figured it would be easier than retyping everything! ;)

It suddenly occurred to me this morning that I have to make ADRs for our Christmas trip soon. So I checked the calendar. I need to make them on SUNDAY! :eek: I am not ready. I am still working on this darned trip! :rotfl2:

Wow, Sunday is soon!!! :scared1: Do you have any standard ADRs you always do for Christmas? And are your daughters more interested in having any input than yourBob? :goodvibes

myBob and Kristin and I managed to talk a bit at dinner tonight. We are in agreement that the girls and I have to do Tea at the Grand. It has become a Christmas trip tradition. We had a horrible meal at Jiko last Christmas night and Kristin would like to try it again. We would love to take them to Raglan Road since we enjoy it so much.

There is our traditional Christmas morning breakfast at Boma too. And Kristin has requested breakfast at Fresh again.

There is the Citricos/Narcoossee's debate and I am thinking they would like Flying Fish. And we have the possibility of Victoria and Albert's (Although I am thinking Bob is going to back out of that one :mad: )

So, I have some ideas but not much of a plan so far!

and ADRs-tommorrow for Christmas?...having never had to make ADRs for Christmas-is that trickier than the rest of the year due to the volume? Do you have any special tricks or is it pretty much the same as usual? -Either way-Good Luck...;)

ADRs are on Sunday for the Christmas trip. And it is always hard. Couple that with the fact that free dining will be finishing through that time I think things might be tough to get.

No special tricks that I know. Well, except for one: get a really good friend (who is arriving before you are) to make the Candlelight Processional ADRs!! :thumbsup2 Thanks to Laura (RachelTori) we will be eating at Biergarten with friends and then seeing Whoopi Goldberg narrate the CP! I am excited to have that taken care of. THANKS, LAURA!!! :goodvibes

Sounds like some nice plans there! I remember that you were very dissappointed in Jiko and that there were a number of not so good reviews at the beginning of 2009. But recently I have read many good reviews. I think they got a new chef early this year. You can tell that the menu has been changed quite a bit. I think lots of the dishes sound wonderful. So I guess Kristin has a point in wanting to try again!

For some strange reason, I have no desire to eat at Citricos. :confused3 So I would not have that debate! :lmao: Flying Fish would indeed be a wonderful meal! :thumbsup2

The very sad thing about the chef change at Jiko is that we were so excited last fall because Brian Piasecki (of Le Cellier fame) was the new head chef at Jiko and we had an amazing meal there. Two months later he was still listed as head chef but we know now that the change to the chef that is there now was probably happening at that point. Couple that with the fact that we were there for Christmas dinner and it was just a disaster. I understand the chef who is at Jiko is terrific. So that is a plus in their favor. Chefs can make a huge difference in the service as well as the food.

On another tangent... Chef Brian now being at CA Grill won't get myBob there again any time soon. Too many mediocre meals and service for the past couple of years has soured us on one of the seemingly best WDW spots. We just haven't seen it for at least 5 years. And I am not picky; we just have been unlucky, I think.

I had never wanted to eat at either Citricos or Narcoossee's until last fall when we gave them both a try. We had terrific meals at both locations, although our service was actually substandard both evenings. Had we been at a "lesser" restaurant the service would have been adequate, but at a couple of their best? Not acceptable. But, again... we will give them another try. And it might be Christmas!

Bob and I are trying Flying Fish for the first time next month so I am hesitant to book it again until we have eaten there. However, everyone I know who has eaten there lately says it is one of the best meals they have had at WDW.

Older DD, Kathrin, has put in a request for Coral Reef for lunch too. She has not decided when she is joining us yet, but if she wants Coral Reef she needs to get there before Christmas Eve! We are running out of meal slots to fill. :laughing:

(It appears my October PTR is turning into a December one too... I might have to start a new one and copy/paste all the things that are on here!)

[Flossbolna]

I like it how I am already featured on your December PTR without having posted there yet! Your plans sound great, the trip with your friends will be great fun and 13 Christmas trips to WDW are absolutely amazing! :goodvibes We used to travel over Christmas for many years in my family as well and we always enjoyed it. It prevented us from anyone stressing out over the planning and organizing. And everyone was truly free to just enjoy the holidays as a family. :goodvibes

[PracPerfPatricia]

Yes...and I'm quite anxious to see what you get for ADRs-the tension is mounting...popcorn::

Actually I'm curious-when you go during Christmas-do you brave the parks on the actual day of Christmas-I've read that they are pretty intense- or do you do a more relaxed dine, hang out together, kind of a thing?

[PNO4TE]

Yes...and I'm quite anxious to see what you get for ADRs-the tension is mounting...popcorn::

Actually I'm curious-when you go during Christmas-do you brave the parks on the actual day of Christmas-I've read that they are pretty intense- or do you do a more relaxed dine, hang out together, kind of a thing?

Sometimes we go into a park on Christmas Day. In the past we have done a little bit of touring World Showcase and checking out the Storytellers back there. Other years we have gone into AK because it is usually the least busy. Once or twice we have gone into HS to view the Osborne Lights. Usually we are not in the parks for very long at all, though. It is not a fun place to be in our opinion!!

And I am curious to see what ADRs I get on Sunday too!! :eek:

[PNO4TE]

I got Kristin's plane ticket today. AirTran for $109 + fees = $119.20. I had a $30 credit for those changed fares from earlier this week, so OOP expense was under $90. Merry Christmas, Kristin! :santa:

[PNO4TE]

For TRIP ONE there are no ADRs or meal plans with the exception of my DDA/DIS meet on the 5th. That is one vacation that is easy to do. No plans at all except MVMCP and spending time with good friends wherever that may be.

For TRIP TWO we have some lists to work with finally! I have consolidated them into one list and present them to you. Any suggestions are most appreciated!

Saturday, 12/19 - no plans being made. myBob and I might decide to stop a second night and make our trip very relaxed. I wouldn't mind spending one night at the beach on the way down. hmmmm.... :scratchin:

Sunday, 12/20 - CP package with dinner at Biergarten before the 8:15 show. Whoopi Goldberg will be the narrator. Someone new!

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/Sept%20WDW%20LARGE/5d303f8e.jpg

Monday, 12/21 - open as of now

Tuesday, 12/22 - open as of now

Wednesday, 12/23 - Coral Reef for lunch or dinner; hoping Kathrin will arrive either the evening before or early today so that we can make this work out.
http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/December%202008%20WDW%20LARGE/157d0205.jpg

Thursday, 12/24 - Kristin arrives at MCO at 9:30 a.m. so we have the whole day to plan! She will need a nap for certain since I have the towncar picking her up at home that morning at 5:00 for her 7:30 flight. They may actually push that time a bit earlier! Poor thing. :eek: Dinner tonight will be at Flying Fish or Citricos or Narcoossee's.

This is still being brainstormed as we like all three menus and the girls have never eaten at any of the three spots. Any thoughts here? Wishes is being shown at 10:00 that night so the view from the Grand would be rather... grand (sorry, I couldn't resist! ;) ).

Friday, 12/25 - Boma for our traditional breakfast about 10:00. I am thinking maybe Raglan Road for dinner if we don't get V&A (or if Bob just says "no way.")

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/December%202008%20WDW%20LARGE/bc21e02d.jpg

Saturday, 12/26 - annual Girls Only Tea at the Grand.
http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/December%202008%20WDW%20LARGE/0a974b2c.jpg

I will try for an ADR early so that we can put our plan for the evening into affect sooner. We are going to start out with a Progressive Monorail Adult Beverage afternoon and early evening.

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/Sept%20WDW%20LARGE/657b4040.jpg

After hitting everything we can find in those three resorts we are going to have our much-missed Eat Around the World evening at Epcot. We haven't done that in probably 5-6 years and both girls had it on their list for this trip. We start at one end of WS and stop at every country to share something to eat and drink. Usually takes us a few hours and we can then take the bus back to the resort without fear of not being in any shape to drive! :rotfl:

Sunday, 12/27 - Fresh at the Dolphin for breakfast around 9:00. And then we will start our trek back home. :(

Please note that Jiko is not on there. I just don't know where we can fit it in this trip. :sad2:

[*KeepMovingForward*]

Just found your new report and I'm jumping on board. I love your Christmas photo from last year. You have a beautiful family Elin. We'll also be at the 12/20 8:15pm show for the CP...so see you there! We're doing Tutto beforehand...so only one country away. LOL!

ETA: I just realized we will see you Christmas morning too. We have 10:15am at Boma. I swear...we are not stalkers.

[John's Mom]

I just left a post on your other PTR.

That's a great holiday picture of your family. :goodvibes Your DDs are beautiful! I really enjoyed the slideshows from your last Christmas trip. :santa:

I already have a list of adult beverages for our trip.:drinking1:drinking1 Of course, we will start at the AKL with our two favorite drinks (I always carry the recipes for these drinks with me whenever we go to WDW). Most of the other drinks will be found at Epcot.

[disneyfav4ever]

Followed your link over and will be reading along!

[PNO4TE]

Just found your new report and I'm jumping on board. I love your Christmas photo from last year. You have a beautiful family Elin. We'll also be at the 12/20 8:15pm show for the CP...so see you there! We're doing Tutto beforehand...so only one country away. LOL!

ETA: I just realized we will see you Christmas morning too. We have 10:15am at Boma. I swear...we are not stalkers.

Thanks for the compliments, Alison! And... If we end up at V&A on Christmas Eve, you can accuse me of stalking you! :rotfl2: I guess we both just have impeccable taste! :teeth:

[PNO4TE]

I just left a post on your other PTR.

That's a great holiday picture of your family. :goodvibes Your DDs are beautiful! I really enjoyed the slideshows from your last Christmas trip. :santa:

I already have a list of adult beverages for our trip.:drinking1:drinking1 Of course, we will start at the AKL with our two favorite drinks (I always carry the recipes for these drinks with me whenever we go to WDW). Most of the other drinks will be found at Epcot.

Thanks for joining in, Kathy! :goodvibes You say such nice things. :love:

We have to make sure we get together at AKL!!! :yay:

[*KeepMovingForward*]

Thanks for the compliments, Alison! And... If we end up at V&A on Christmas Eve, you can accuse me of stalking you! :rotfl2: I guess we both just have impeccable taste! :teeth:

:rotfl: It just proves that great minds think alike. (or should that be great bellies?)

[PNO4TE]

Followed your link over and will be reading along!

:wave2: Thanks!!

[PNO4TE]

:rotfl: It just proves that great minds think alike. (or should that be great bellies?)

maybe a little of both! :rotfl:

[Flossbolna]

Good luck with the ADRs today!! :goodvibes:thumbsup2

[PNO4TE]

Good luck with the ADRs today!! :goodvibes:thumbsup2

I am working on it, Magdalene! I got everything we wanted EXCEPT I can't seem to book anything at all for Christmas Eve dinner or Christmas night dinner. :eek: I am going back in to try again. Thanks for the good wishes!

[PNO4TE]

I think I broke the online ADR system this morning. :eek:

I got most of what we wanted for our December trip, but when I got to booking Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas Day dinner I ran into problems. I can get CA Grill on Christmas Eve but the system is too busy to respond to my request for Narcoossee's that night.

I can get Jiko for Christmas night but again the system can't respond to the request for bluezoo or Flying Fish.

I have CA Grill and Jiko booked but we really don't want to eat at either place! :rotfl:

Oh, and I have only been at this for 2 hours this morning. Please note that it is only 5:45 ...

[PNO4TE]

I think this is hysterical... The system keeps telling me I have an Invalid Last Name when I try to book Christmas Eve or Christmas night. I figure Santa and his list are somehow involved in this. :santa:

[Flossbolna]

I am so sorry that this does not work for you!! I have read that peope had more luck calling for certain reservations. So I guess in about half an hour you will be talking to WDW-Dine anyway for the CP. I will cross all my fingers for you!!!! :goodvibes (or as we say in Germany: press my thumbs!!)

[PNO4TE]

I am so sorry that this does not work for you!! I have read that peope had more luck calling for certain reservations. So I guess in about half an hour you will be talking to WDW-Dine anyway for the CP. I will cross all my fingers for you!!!! :goodvibes (or as we say in Germany: press my thumbs!!)

Thanks for the thumb pressing!!! :love:

[PNO4TE]

Magdalene - I think your thumb pressing and Laura's (RachelTori) good luck email worked! Here is what I ended up with (and it only took 4 hours total... :rolleyes: )

12/19 - nothing needed
12/20 - nothing new needed - Biergarten for dinner at 5:30 followed by Candlelight Processional at 8:15
12/21 - nothing needed
12/22 - Yak & Yeti for dinner at 6:00
12/23 - Coral Reef for lunch at 3:30
12/24 - Raglan Road at 2:00 for lunch & Narcoossee's at 9:05 for dinner
12/25 - Boma at 10:00 for breakfast & Todd English's bluezooTM at 7:00 for dinner
12/26 - Gardenview Lounge for Tea at 2:00
12/27 - Fresh for breakfast at 9:00

[PracPerfPatricia]

Elin, I'm so happy that your ADRs worked out...they all look great...:yay::yay::yay:

I've never been to Bluezoo but have always wanted to-that should be a great Christmas Dinner...:goodvibes, or Fresh either :confused3 for that matter...

Are you going to right a TR...so we can live this trip vicariously?

I hadn't noticed the age difference between your girls before-Emily and David are 7 3/4 years apart...

Theu are lovely btw...

[oybolshoi]

Ah, here you are! Bluezoo is awesome ... you will have a terrific dinner there!

And now, I'm sorry, but I have to go back to October ... even though this is only September. :lmao:

[PNO4TE]

Elin, I'm so happy that your ADRs worked out...they all look great...:yay::yay::yay:

I've never been to Bluezoo but have always wanted to-that should be a great Christmas Dinner...:goodvibes, or Fresh either :confused3 for that matter...

Are you going to right a TR...so we can live this trip vicariously?

I hadn't noticed the age difference between your girls before-Emily and David are 7 3/4 years apart...

Theu are lovely btw...

I plan to write a TR, Patricia. It may be like the one I did last December, which was a series of slideshows. Or, if I have time, I might write a normal one like yours! :teeth:

We waited a long time to have both our daughters and love the age difference. Our older daughter has always said that Kristin is hers because she waited so long for her to come. She wanted a baby "just like her" to be her sister. It is all she asked for many years for Christmas and her birthdays. :love:

Speaking of lovely daughters... Emily is gorgeous. I think she looks a lot like Helena Bonham Carter! It took me forever to find a picture that was appropriate to post!! :eek:

http://z.about.com/d/worldfilm/1/7/X/8/1/helenabonhamcarter.jpg

[John's Mom]

I'm so glad that you got all your ADRs (even though it only took you four hours). ;) Erin and I have a reservation at Blue Zoo. This will be our first time there.

Also, I love the idea of more slideshows if you do a Christmas TR. :love:



Kathy

[PNO4TE]

I'm so glad that you got all your ADRs (even though it only took you four hours). ;) Erin and I have a reservation at Blue Zoo. This will be our first time there.

Also, I love the idea of more slideshows if you do a Christmas TR. :love:



Kathy

I am glad you get to try out bluezoo in December too. :yay:

Since Bob decided that he didn't want to go in October, I wasn't too sad that it ended up on our itinerary for the Christmas trip. :rolleyes1

[PNO4TE]

Our older DD (Kathrin) is perusing all the ADRs I made over the weekend and will then decide when she wants to fly into MCO. :rotfl:
I put Coral Reef earlier in the week as a bit of temptation. We will see if Yak & Yeti has as much draw. ;)

[disneyfav4ever]

I think this is hysterical... The system keeps telling me I have an Invalid Last Name when I try to book Christmas Eve or Christmas night. I figure Santa and his list is somehow involved in this. :santa:I was getting the same message the other day.

[PNO4TE]

There has been talk amongst the many DIS friends that are going to be at the World the first weekend in December (my 48 hour trip) about doing a group shot in the Studios before we eat lunch at Mama Melrose. There was a discussion about ToT. :eek:

I will photoshop myself into that shot before I would sit in that ride!! Maybe we can get a shot of all of us at Star Tours or Muppets or in front of the HAT or something less terrifying! http://bestsmileys.com/scared/7.gif

[PNO4TE]

I will be glad, in a way, when our F & W Festival trip is done. I have things I need to do for this holiday trip that I just can't find the time to do now.

I have to plot our driving trip. It is not difficult... I-95 South! :rotfl: But we will need one or two night's accommodations for the trip down and one on the way home. I will be getting on that on October 9th! :yay:

[PNO4TE]

Because I need to keep this open...

It is now Tuesday 9/29/2009 at 9:24:52 AM
Event: Whirlwind MVMCP Trip!
Scheduled For 12/5/2009 6:00:00 AM
2 months 5 days 20 hours 35 minutes 8 seconds or
9 weekends or
67 days or
1,604 hours (1,069 waking hours) or
96,275 minutes or
5,776,507 seconds


AND...

It is now Tuesday 9/29/2009 at 9:25:54 AM
Event: Christmas at WDW!
Scheduled For 12/18/2009 5:00:00 PM
2 months 19 days 7 hours 34 minutes 6 seconds or
11 weekends or
80 days or
1,927 hours (1,285 waking hours) or
115,654 minutes or
6,939,245 seconds

[PNO4TE]

Apparently our AP rate is a very good one. :goodvibes The new package deal WDW is offering would cost us a lot more than we will be paying in total for what we have now.

I am glad I booked in July! :yay:

[ChelleinNC]

Just found your new report and I'm jumping on board. I love your Christmas photo from last year. You have a beautiful family Elin. We'll also be at the 12/20 8:15pm show for the CP...so see you there! We're doing Tutto beforehand...so only one country away. LOL!

ETA: I just realized we will see you Christmas morning too. We have 10:15am at Boma. I swear...we are not stalkers.

I'm a bad friendie, I just found the link :laughing:

So cool that you'll be at the same show & meals! :goodvibes

I will be glad, in a way, when our F & W Festival trip is done. I have things I need to do for this holiday trip that I just can't find the time to do now.

I have to plot our driving trip. It is not difficult... I-95 South! :rotfl: But we will need one or two night's accommodations for the trip down and one on the way home. I will be getting on that on October 9th! :yay:

95 South, turn right when you get to I-4 :rotfl:

There's a nice Comfort Suites (only about 1 1/2 years old) on the North side of Savannah. It's a good price, and really nice rooms :thumbsup2

Apparently our AP rate is a very good one. :goodvibes The new package deal WDW is offering would cost us a lot more than we will be paying in total for what we have now.

I am glad I booked in July! :yay:

A very good rate :thumbsup2

[PNO4TE]

We are at WDW for our annual F&W Festival Trip. I keep seeing things I want to remember to do when we come back in December. I keep wishing the girls were with us on this trip too.

[PNO4TE]

I'm a bad friendie, I just found the link :laughing:

So cool that you'll be at the same show & meals! :goodvibes



95 South, turn right when you get to I-4 :rotfl:

There's a nice Comfort Suites (only about 1 1/2 years old) on the North side of Savannah. It's a good price, and really nice rooms :thumbsup2



A very good rate :thumbsup2

Thanks for the pointer on the Comfort Suites. That is where we stayed last night in Baltimore by the airport. Lots of room and having it be a good price is also nice!!

[PNO4TE]

I cannot believe our family trip is in 75 days! Wow!! :goodvibes

[ChelleinNC]

I cannot believe our family trip is in 75 days! Wow!! :goodvibes

I can't believe you have to finish your F&W trip & Girls trip before you get to the family trip :scared1::lmao:

[PNO4TE]

Bob and I are going home from our F&W Festival trip tomorrow. The only good thing about going home is that I get to work on the next two trips! I can't believe how soon they will be here!! :eek: :teeth:

[PNO4TE]

I can't believe you have to finish your F&W trip & Girls trip before you get to the family trip :scared1::lmao:

F&W is almost done, Chelle :( And the Girls trip will be barely more than a blink of an eye with not much time to report on it.

December is one of my busiest months because all my classes and private students have recitals. There are 19 scheduled between December 14-17. :faint:

[PNO4TE]

Sunday afternoon Bob and I discussed our drive down and decided to leave after he gets off work on Friday, the 18th. He will leave a little early so we ought to be on the road by 3:00 at the latest. I have made reservations in Fayetteville, NC which is about 4 1/2 hours from us. That will leave us with a drive of only about 8 1/2 hours on Saturday. That is doable!

For the return trip, I am very torn... I absolutely refuse to leave WDW until Sunday, the 27th. With Kristin not even arriving until the 24th I want to make certain we have a little more time together than we usually get. She cannot take Monday, the 28th off. So we have to have her back home by noon that day.

My thoughts are to drive a long time on Sunday and then get up early on Monday morning to finish up the trip. I am betting traffic on I-95 will be horrible on the 27th. Everyone will be headed home after the holiday. What to do, what to do...

If only airfare and car rentals would suddenly drop in price, we would all fly. But they are both outrageous and don't seem to be going down. I think the prices are higher now than they have been in all the years we have been traveling to WDW for Christmas. That is 13 years. I wonder why, during this economic disaster, these two industries are raising prices instead of making certain that their products are being used?!?

I suppose Kristin could have the option of flying home by herself on Sunday. I will have to approach that later on today!

[PNO4TE]

I just looked at my ticker and I will be back in WDW in 50 days!! :yay:

[PNO4TE]

Kristin and I were talking about our bluezoo reservation. We are seriously thinking of canceling for moral reasons! :rotfl:

But it is truly something we are considering. I read an article about Mr. English's behavior concerning the cancelation of his wedding. We don't know the whole "real" story, but regardless... jilting the bride while everyone was sitting waiting and then leaving her with a $12,000 bill that was supposed to have been paid is not nice. Maybe she did something to deserve having the wedding called off, but their guests did not and his odd behavior leading up to and following the fiasco just has us considering finding another place to eat.

[PracPerfPatricia]

I totally support your desire to take a moral stance on what sounds like incredibly boorish behavior...but will you be able to get another reservation at this point?

We wouldn't want you out in the cold...:confused3

[PNO4TE]

I totally support your desire to take a moral stance on what sounds like incredibly boorish behavior...but will you be able to get another reservation at this point?

We wouldn't want you out in the cold...:confused3

There are, of course, two sides to every story. Both of them behaved abominably in my opinion. Before I cancel anything I will see what might be available somewhere else.

[PNO4TE]

We talked a lot today about how much time we spend eating at WDW! With Kristin only being there for three days she asked if we could change things up a little bit... so we did today.

And then we changed them again on 10/31!

12/19 - Yak & Yeti for lunch with Diana at 2:00

12/20 - nothing new needed - Biergarten for dinner at 5:30 followed by Candlelight Processional at 8:15 with Laura, her DH and Diana

12/21 - Tutto Italia for lunch at 12:30 (thanks, Diana!!)

12/22 - Kathrin arrives about 6:00 p.m.... dinner plans in the planning stages!

12/23 - Coral Reef for lunch at 3:30 /Cirque du Soleil at 9:00

12/24 - canceled Raglan Road for lunch & kept Narcoossee's at 9:05 for dinner

12/25 - Boma at 10:00 for breakfast & canceled Todd English's bluezooTM at 7:00 and added Raglan Road at 9:00 for dinner

12/26 - Gardenview Lounge for Tea at 2:00

12/27 - canceled Fresh and added Kouzzina for breakfast at 9:25

[PNO4TE]

How did I miss the fact that we are under 60 days until our Christmas trip??

I am waaaaaay too busy at work. I have more important things to do, like trip planning! :rotfl:

[eandesmom]

Great changes! I think RR will be so Christmassy it will be perfect on the 25th and fun that you added Kouzzina for breakfast since you liked it so much on your F&W trip!

[MrsHeg]

There has been talk amongst the many DIS friends that are going to be at the World the first weekend in December (my 48 hour trip) about doing a group shot in the Studios before we eat lunch at Mama Melrose. There was a discussion about ToT. :eek:

I will photoshop myself into that shot before I would sit in that ride!! Maybe we can get a shot of all of us at Star Tours or Muppets or in front of the HAT or something less terrifying! http://bestsmileys.com/scared/7.gif

:rotfl::rotfl:Less terrifying but certainly not as much fun!:rotfl::rotfl:

I guess the Hat will have to do!

[PracPerfPatricia]

I'm really glad that you were able to get something to replace BlueZoo...:thumbsup2

[PNO4TE]

Great changes! I think RR will be so Christmassy it will be perfect on the 25th and fun that you added Kouzzina for breakfast since you liked it so much on your F&W trip!

We thought Raglan Road would be fun that night too, and Bob and I are looking forward to see what the girls think of Kouzzina. We know they will like the sangria. ;)

:rotfl::rotfl:Less terrifying but certainly not as much fun!:rotfl::rotfl:

I guess the Hat will have to do!

Or I can stand in front of ToT and take photo of you all as you drop. :rotfl:

I'm really glad that you were able to get something to replace BlueZoo...:thumbsup2

Thanks, Patricia. We are happier overall now too.

[PNO4TE]

After much talking and thought we made some decisions and changes to our travel to and from WDW.

1. Bob and I won't leave until early on Saturday, December 19. I made reservations for us at the oceanfront Courtyard Inn Jacksonville Beach for that night. Even with their breakfast deal (which also includes 2 glasses of wine at their oceanfront bar) it was comparably priced to the night at POFQ. And we get to see the beach!

2. Kristin agreed that it doesn't make much sense to try to get home late on Sunday evening when all she will do is sleep in the car, anyway. So, I found a great rate at the Doubletree in Rocky Mount, NC. We have a suite booked for the three of us and it is about 10 hours from WDW and only 3 hours from home. We will get up early Monday morning and get her home in time to go to work at noon.

This looks good to us today. We will see how it looks in another day or two! :rotfl2:

[ChelleinNC]

Your changes sound good :thumbsup2

[PNO4TE]

Your changes sound good :thumbsup2

Thanks, Michelle! :goodvibes

[RachelTori]

Hi, Elin! I am hoping we will be a part of your TR!!! ;)

I can't believe how close it is to the Holidays already! :eek:

Now that I've finally subscribed to your thread, maybe I can keep up with it!! :cutie: (where does the time go?!!! :confused3)

See ya real soon! :goodvibes

[John's Mom]

A day at the beach in December! :love:

[Flossbolna]

I like the idea of the night at the beach! :thumbsup2 Sounds like your plans are really coming together! :goodvibes

[PNO4TE]

Oh, the tangled webs that have been woven here in Virginia in the past 24 hours! :rotfl:

I just bought Bob a one way airline ticket on Christmas Eve morning to fly with Kristin. I am going to make the drive alone! I will drive about 8 hours on Friday and the other 4 on Saturday!!

He just doesn't love it like I do. I figure we can cancel the first 5 nights of the girls' room and save tons of money doing that. If Kathrin comes early she can stay with me! If she doesn't come early I will have an extra CP ticket to give to "someone" as a Christmas present. (Don't you tell her yet, Laura! Does her tiny companion need a ticket too??)

I have more work to do on this trip again. What am I thinking?!?!?

[RachelTori]

Oh, the tangled webs that have been woven here in Virginia in the past 24 hours! :rotfl:

I just bought Bob a one way airline ticket on Christmas Eve morning to fly with Kristin. I am going to make the drive alone!

He just doesn't love it like I do. I figure we can cancel the first 5 nights of the girls' room and save tons of money doing that. If Kathrin comes early she can stay with me! If she doesn't come early I will have an extra CP ticket to give to "someone" as a Christmas present. (Don't you tell her yet, Laura! Does her tiny companion need a ticket too??)

I have more work to do on this trip again. What am I thinking?!?!?

She canceled the trip. :sad1: I think things at home got complicated and to keep the peace, she canceled. :sad:

Do you think we can talk her into re-booking?!! :laughing:

[PNO4TE]

She canceled the trip. :sad1: I think things at home got complicated and to keep the peace, she canceled. :sad:

Do you think we can talk her into re-booking?!! :laughing:

Oh, no! :(

Well, we will need to discuss the extra ticket if Kathrin doesn't come that early (and I don't think she will). I will pay for it gladly and give it away if necessary!

[creativeamanda]

LOL, while you are driving up and down I-95, you should stop and see me in Lumberton. . .except I'll be at Disney, lol.

Looks like ya'll are going to have fun!

[PNO4TE]

Oh! If she rebooks she could stay with me!

[PNO4TE]

LOL, while you are driving up and down I-95, you should stop and see me in Lumberton. . .except I'll be at Disney, lol.

Looks like ya'll are going to have fun!

I will have to check where is about halfway for me. We have stayed in Lumberton many times on our drives. :wave2:

[PracPerfPatricia]

Thanks Elin...:goodvibes

received envelope in the mail...:cool1:

[PNO4TE]

Thanks Elin...:goodvibes

received envelope in the mail...:cool1:

:yay: !!!

[RachelTori]

Oh! If she rebooks she could stay with me!

You should let her know!!! :thumbsup2

(doubt that will change her mind, but we won't know if you don't try!! ;))

[ChelleinNC]

I turn off the computer for one night and :confused3 I'd suggest stopping by Charlotte on the way down, but that's a little out of the way :laughing: Can't wait to see what your plans really end up being ;)

[PNO4TE]

You should let her know!!! :thumbsup2

(doubt that will change her mind, but we won't know if you don't try!! ;))

I will!

I turn off the computer for one night and :confused3 I'd suggest stopping by Charlotte on the way down, but that's a little out of the way :laughing: Can't wait to see what your plans really end up being ;)

I am always one for changing plans but not as much as this trip, Michelle! Unless there is some unforeseen reason, this should be it. Bob and Kristin have plane tickets. Kathrin is still deciding when she will come. I don't teach on the 18th so will leave home that day and drive to SC or GA. I will make a reservation there. I will get up early on the 19th and finish the drive, arriving in WDW about noon, I think. Then I will have at least a couple of days to have fun on my own. And Sunday night I get to do Biergarten and CP with Laura and her DD! And maybe someone else, if I can give the ticket away. :)

[PNO4TE]

Oh, and Michelle - my best friend from college lives in the Charlotte area. We love your city!

[RachelTori]

Elin, CP is with my DH; my DD will probably have her BFF along (we're working on that now). If not, DD could buy the extra ticket. Or, we could end up trying to get an "extra" in at the last minute if BFF and DD both want to do it! ;)

When did this get complicated?!!! :rotfl:


:goodvibes

[RachelTori]

All this confusion could be avoided if our dear friend, Diana, would just reconsider.......

:rolleyes1

[DisneyBride'03]

HA!
have been MIA here on the DIS and look what I find....LOL

Should have everything finalized (fingers crossed) soon....hoping airtran will be nice....lol

I have great friends:)

[eandesmom]

Oh, the tangled webs that have been woven here in Virginia in the past 24 hours! :rotfl:

I just bought Bob a one way airline ticket on Christmas Eve morning to fly with Kristin. I am going to make the drive alone!

He just doesn't love it like I do. I figure we can cancel the first 5 nights of the girls' room and save tons of money doing that. If Kathrin comes early she can stay with me! If she doesn't come early I will have an extra CP ticket to give to "someone" as a Christmas present. (Don't you tell her yet, Laura! Does her tiny companion need a ticket too??)

I have more work to do on this trip again. What am I thinking?!?!?

Oh my goodness! That is quite the change...

[RachelTori]

HA!
have been MIA here on the DIS and look what I find....LOL

Should have everything finalized (fingers crossed) soon....hoping airtran will be nice....lol

I have great friends:)

Yes you do!!!! ;)



:rotfl:

[DisneyBride'03]

or enablers......LOL

[PNO4TE]

Elin, CP is with my DH; my DD will probably have her BFF along (we're working on that now). If not, DD could buy the extra ticket. Or, we could end up trying to get an "extra" in at the last minute if BFF and DD both want to do it! ;)

When did this get complicated?!!! :rotfl:


:goodvibes

All this confusion could be avoided if our dear friend, Diana, would just reconsider.......

:rolleyes1

HA!
have been MIA here on the DIS and look what I find....LOL

Should have everything finalized (fingers crossed) soon....hoping airtran will be nice....lol

I have great friends:)

Yes you do!!!! ;)



:rotfl:

or enablers......LOL

So now my PTR has to include a new room mate! :rotfl:

For those of you reading along and wondering what in the heck is going on, I invited Diana to share my newly acquired solo room so that she can join Laura and me on this holiday trip. Laura's family is coming later and Diana will leave before my family gets there so it all works out GREAT! :yay:

[Flossbolna]

So now my PTR has to include a new room mate! :rotfl:

For those of you reading along and wondering what in the heck is going on, I invited Diana to share my newly acquired solo room so that she can join Laura and me on this holiday trip. Laura's family is coming later and Diana will leave before my family gets there so it all works out GREAT! :yay:

That's wonderful! :goodvibes I hope the three of you will have a great time together! :thumbsup2

[DisneyBride'03]

Well, it's official, the little Christmas trip that almost wasn't....IS:santa:

Booked air today, have a room at POR with an AP rate for Friday....and will be awaiting Elin's arrival on Saturday:goodvibes

Worked things out with my Bob....he is a great guy...and again, said I had such great friends...he didnt want to be the Scrooge.....he did say I have forfeited any excursions now on our cruise next May:rotfl2:

ok.....:rotfl::rolleyes1

Elin, it certainly was an offer I couldn't refuse...:worship:

[DisneyBride'03]

That's wonderful! :goodvibes I hope the three of you will have a great time together! :thumbsup2

Thanks:)

[John's Mom]

So now my PTR has to include a new room mate! :rotfl:

For those of you reading along and wondering what in the heck is going on, I invited Diana to share my newly acquired solo room so that she can join Laura and me on this holiday trip. Laura's family is coming later and Diana will leave before my family gets there so it all works out GREAT! :yay:

I can almost see it now!

party::rockband:party:

[PNO4TE]

And to make things even more perfect... Kathrin's airfare is now booked!! :teeth:

She is arriving Tuesday evening (I will need to tweak the ADR for that night) and then leaving on the 27th with the rest of us. :yay:

[DisneyBride'03]

And to make things even more perfect... Kathrin's airfare is now booked!! :teeth:

She is arriving Tuesday evening (I will need to tweak the ADR for that night) and then leaving on the 27th with the rest of us. :yay:

Make sure to thank your Bob and Kathrin too...!!:goodvibes;)

Have a new ticker....:cloud9:

[PNO4TE]

Make sure to thank your Bob and Kathrin too...!!:goodvibes;)

Have a new ticker....:cloud9:

I love it!! :love:

Guess I need to tweak ADRs again, huh? :rotfl2:

[PNO4TE]

Wow... we are under 50 days for the family Christmas trip! I saw my ticker this morning and almost fainted! So much to do before then, both at work and to get ready.

I checked the AirTran site this morning to make certain there wasn't a better deal on Kat's airfare and saw that it went up $93 since yesterday. Good call, Mom!

I spent some time last night filling out the pockets in my PassPorter so I can see what is there and what I still need to take care of. I know Kathrin won't be able to do our Kouzzina breakfast the last day. :( Her flight is at 11:52 so I am assuming that ME will pick her up at 8:40 or so. The ADR is for 9:25 as I was hoping there would be a later flight that would work for her. She will probably grab something in the airport instead and the three of us will go to Kouzzina before we head out on the road.

Diana has made us a reservation for lunch at Tutto Italia for the 21st. I am very excited as I have not been there since the changeover from Alfredo's. It will be a lovely way to end that part of the trip, even though I will be sad to see her leave. :(

I think I will make a new post with all our updated ADRs when I have a better handle on it all. It will make following along on this ever-changing adventure much easier for everyone. ;)

[ChelleinNC]

:faint: Your changes are making me a little dizzy but it sounds like you are going to have a wonderful trip! :yay:

[DisneyBride'03]

When I am involved, in anyway shape or form, there are always changes...lol...ask RachelTori! (Laura) ;)

[PNO4TE]

:faint: Your changes are making me a little dizzy but it sounds like you are going to have a wonderful trip! :yay:

I have to admit they are making me dizzy too... but more in a good way (like when you get off the Teacups!) :goodvibes

[DisneyBride'03]

I still haven't taken a spin in the teacups .....think I missed my window now....lol

[RachelTori]

Diana has made us a reservation for lunch at Tutto Italia for the 21st. I am very excited as I have not been there since the changeover from Alfredo's. It will be a lovely way to end that part of the trip, even though I will be sad to see her leave. :(



Tutto is splendido, meraviglioso, eccezionale, ottimo, eccellente!

:laughing: I'm Irish, I googled!! :rotfl:




When I am involved, in anyway shape or form, there are always changes...lol...ask RachelTori! (Laura) ;)

:rolleyes1

Keeps life exciting!!! ;)

[DisneyBride'03]

Wonder if Elin is done tweaking yet....?! ;)

[PNO4TE]

Wonder if Elin is done tweaking yet....?! ;)

No! When you posted I was busy teaching. And then I went to the Haunted Treats Wine Pairing with Kristin and a friend. YUMMMMMMM!!! We had 4 desserts and 4 wines and all were served down in the wine cave, but it was all decked out for Halloween! More pictures possibly tomorrow.

http://www.potomacpointwinery.com/Images/Other_Private_Events/wine_cave_wed.jpg

Tomorrow I will do more tweaking! I promise!

[DisneyBride'03]

Nice Elin...I would love to have a wine cave;)



http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc68/dvcsangus/Tinkerbell-Happy-Halloween.jpg

[PracPerfPatricia]

No! When you posted I was busy teaching. And then I went to the Haunted Treats Wine Pairing with Kristin and a friend. YUMMMMMMM!!! We had 4 desserts and 4 wines and all were served down in the wine cave, but it was all decked out for Halloween! More pictures possibly tomorrow.

http://www.potomacpointwinery.com/Images/Other_Private_Events/wine_cave_wed.jpg

Tomorrow I will do more tweaking! I promise!

Elin...

Wow-a Haunted Treat Wine Pairing sounds fabulous...:goodvibes

Wait-is that YOUR wine cave????:confused3

Curious to see the tweaks...;)

[PNO4TE]

Elin...

Wow-a Haunted Treat Wine Pairing sounds fabulous...:goodvibes

Wait-is that YOUR wine cave????:confused3

Curious to see the tweaks...;)

Lordy, lordy.... NOT MY CAVE!! Although after we finished the pairings last night we chose to sit out on their patio by the fire and have another glass of wine and said how nice it would be to own that place and be able to sit out there on fall evenings. The owners were there right beside us enjoying themselves. :)

[PNO4TE]

Here are a couple of not-so-great photos of what the cave looked like last night:

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/Mobile%20Uploads/1030091951-1.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/Mobile%20Uploads/1030091934.jpg

[oybolshoi]

Elin, that is soooo cool! Be sure to share it with the friendies, too ... I think there are twenty or thirty of them who'd like to hear all about it. :laughing:

[PNO4TE]

Elin, that is soooo cool! Be sure to share it with the friendies, too ... I think there are twenty or thirty of them who'd like to hear all about it. :laughing:

I plan to do a review with photos over there, Brenda. Don't worry!

[oybolshoi]

I plan to do a review with photos over there, Brenda. Don't worry!

:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo::woohoo::yay::yay::yay::ya y:

[PNO4TE]

I have been a busy girl today.

I booked lunch at Yak & Yeti for my arrival day for Diana and me. Then we will head to Kidani for a glass of her favorite chardonnay. Then... off to MK for the Castle Lighting, Spectro and Holiday Wishes. HS is open until o'dark thirty so we ought to be able to see the Osborne Lights that night too! I may sleep in on Sunday, Diana! :rotfl:

I also booked Cirque for Kathrin and me!! :yay:

[CPer'sMom]

Hi Elin,

I've been following along on your PTR :) and had to comment on that Haunted Wine Tasting -- looks like fun! Was that at Potomac Point?

_________
Nancy

[RachelTori]

I have been a busy girl today.

I booked lunch at Yak & Yeti for my arrival day for Diana and me. Then we will head to Kidani for a glass of her favorite chardonnay. Then... off to MK for the Castle Lighting, Spectro and Holiday Wishes. HS is open until o'dark thirty so we ought to be able to see the Osborne Lights that night too! I may sleep in on Sunday, Diana! :rotfl:

I also booked Cirque for Kathrin and me!! :yay:

Hey! What about me????!!! :rolleyes1

:laughing:



I love the pictures of the wine cave! :goodvibes

[DisneyBride'03]

Hey! What about me????!!! :rolleyes1

:laughing:



I love the pictures of the wine cave! :goodvibes

:lmao:what time do the DFam arrive.....???


Elin we dont have to do everything....:rolleyes1 on Saturday...however, you can rest after I leave while you wait for your DFam:laughing:

I will be like the Looney Tunes Tasmanian Devil that weekend.....:rotfl2:

[PNO4TE]

Hi Elin,

I've been following along on your PTR :) and had to comment on that Haunted Wine Tasting -- looks like fun! Was that at Potomac Point?

_________
Nancy

Yes it was, Nancy! Have you been?

[PNO4TE]

Hey! What about me????!!! :rolleyes1

:laughing:



I love the pictures of the wine cave! :goodvibes

HEY! What time is Dwight coming in? If it is late I will add you to the ADR!!! It is at 2:00.

[PNO4TE]

:lmao:what time do the DFam arrive.....???


Elin we dont have to do everything....:rolleyes1 on Saturday...however, you can rest after I leave while you wait for your DFam:laughing:

I will be like the Looney Tunes Tasmanian Devil that weekend.....:rotfl2:

And I will be the blithering idiot! http://bestsmileys.com/silly/19.gif

[RachelTori]

HEY! What time is Dwight coming in? If it is late I will add you to the ADR!!! It is at 2:00.


Thanks, but they will be coming mid-morning. We have a noon ADR at LeCellier. :goodvibes That's one of the ones I booked online at 4:30A.M.!!!! :laughing:

[PNO4TE]

Thanks, but they will be coming mid-morning. We have a noon ADR at LeCellier. :goodvibes That's one of the ones I booked online at 4:30A.M.!!!! :laughing:

Well, you know if their plans change you can join us!

[MEK]

Cool! Another TR I can quickly become addicted to! Can't wait to go back and read!

[PNO4TE]

For the curious bunch here... second round of ADR Tweakge can be found here:

She's At it Again!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33988562&postcount=48)

[PNO4TE]

Cool! Another TR I can quickly become addicted to! Can't wait to go back and read!

I hope you don't get dizzy! :rotfl2: :crazy2:

[PNO4TE]

Wow! 32 days till I go with my friends and only 45 days till our Christmas vacation begins. :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:

[creativeamanda]

For the curious bunch here... second round of ADR Tweakge can be found here:

She's At it Again!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33988562&postcount=48)

Glad to know I'm not the only one who tweaks the ADRs.

I love Tutto Italia--it's my kids' favorite!

[DisneyBride'03]

Wow! 32 days till I go with my friends and only 45 days till our Christmas vacation begins. :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:

At least you will have some time to recuperate from your whirlwind trip before you head back down!!!
:rolleyes1

[PNO4TE]

Glad to know I'm not the only one who tweaks the ADRs.

I love Tutto Italia--it's my kids' favorite!

My family is getting tired of my "tweakage" :rotfl2:

[PNO4TE]

At least you will have some time to recuperate from your whirlwind trip before you head back down!!!
:rolleyes1

I am going to try very hard to bear up under the strain. :lmao: :rolleyes1

[creativeamanda]

My family is getting tired of my "tweakage" :rotfl2:

LOL, I don't have that problem this time, as they aren't going. I can tweak away! :banana:

Still wondering, though, if I should do a food TR.

[PracPerfPatricia]

I think that I saw "ADR Tweakage" in my Merck Manual of Medical Information for Home Usage ...

It is a condition that one can catch from Disboarding and having an overall Disney fixation...it is hard to cure and while not serious is very contagious...;)

[raider97]

Hi!

Just stumbled upon your trip report! I've enjoyed reading about your plans. We will be at POR Riverside from the 16th - 26th. Can't wait. :goodvibes

Stephanie

[ChelleinNC]

LOL, I don't have that problem this time, as they aren't going. I can tweak away! :banana:

Still wondering, though, if I should do a food TR.

I think I can safely say that all of us here love food porn :thumbsup2

[creativeamanda]

I think I can safely say that all of us here love food porn :thumbsup2

I know--I'm thinking I won't use my DSLR for food porn, though, so I can be less conspicuous. I have a great P&S--I think I'll use it.

[PNO4TE]

LOL, I don't have that problem this time, as they aren't going. I can tweak away! :banana:

Still wondering, though, if I should do a food TR.

I vote, ::yes::

[PNO4TE]

Let me start off by saying... If I miss replying to any posts it is not because I am ignoring you! All the posts below were NOT on my thread last night when I checked in on here about midnight! Hopefully I will be caught up again.

I think that I saw "ADR Tweakage" in my Merck Manual of Medical Information for Home Usage ...

It is a condition that one can catch from Disboarding and having an overall Disney fixation...it is hard to cure and while not serious is very contagious...;)

:rotfl2: thank goodness there is a diagnosis and it is not dire!

Hi!

Just stumbled upon your trip report! I've enjoyed reading about your plans. We will be at POR Riverside from the 16th - 26th. Can't wait. :goodvibes

Stephanie

:welcome: I can't wait, either! :goodvibes I plan to try to read your PTR when I am done here!

I think I can safely say that all of us here love food porn :thumbsup2

I know--I'm thinking I won't use my DSLR for food porn, though, so I can be less conspicuous. I have a great P&S--I think I'll use it.

Food porn is so much fun to share, isn't it?? :lmao: If I really want to be inconspicuous I use my cell phone. It isn't perfect, but most of the time is adequate since I don't plan to print any of the shots. Although... :scratchin :idea: What a very cool calendar some of these pictures would make!!

Amanda - I need to go read your PTR too... My DDs are always saying, "Can haz??" :rotfl:

[PNO4TE]

Oh, and I thought I should share this tidbit: My DDs think the title of my PTR/TR is "lame"

These are the same two young women who had absolutely no suggestions for their mother when she asked them for help in the naming... :rolleyes:

[DisneyBride'03]

Oh, and I thought I should share this tidbit: My DDs think the title of my PTR/TR is "lame"

These are the same two young women who had absolutely no suggestions for their mother when she asked them for help in the naming... :rolleyes:

welll..after the trip is done,, perhaps you can change the title to...

"Made the Lists...checked them thrice...guess who was naughty, & guess who was nice...."....:rotfl2:

[creativeamanda]

Oh, and I thought I should share this tidbit: My DDs think the title of my PTR/TR is "lame"

These are the same two young women who had absolutely no suggestions for their mother when she asked them for help in the naming... :rolleyes:

That's certainly when you DON'T need assistance from the "Peanut Gallery". :rolleyes1

:rotfl2:

Okay, so I'll attempt a food porn thread after I'm finished. You all will have to make sure you come visit it, though.

[PNO4TE]

welll..after the trip is done,, perhaps you can change the title to...

"Made the Lists...checked them thrice...guess who was naughty, & guess who was nice...."....:rotfl2:

Where the heck were you when I was looking for titles?!?!? :rotfl2:

[PNO4TE]

That's certainly when you DON'T need assistance from the "Peanut Gallery". :rolleyes1

:rotfl2:

Okay, so I'll attempt a food porn thread after I'm finished. You all will have to make sure you come visit it, though.

I will be there! :thumbsup2

I don't remember if I asked this on your thread, but are you from PA? We are originally from Punxsutawney. And maybe you already answered me and my old brain forgot! :lmao:

[DisneyBride'03]

Where the heck were you when I was looking for titles?!?!? :rotfl2:

trying to stay off the naughty list.....lol

[creativeamanda]

I will be there! :thumbsup2

I don't remember if I asked this on your thread, but are you from PA? We are originally from Punxsutawney. And maybe you already answered me and my old brain forgot! :lmao:

You did--and I'm not. I'm from, SC, but dh and his best friend travel up to PA every year for a cigar festival.

I actually live very close to I-95 on the NC/SC border (in NC now, though I still consider myself a South Carolinian.)

And I still think you're too young to start having "senior moments".

[DisneyBride'03]

speaking of titles for PTR's....I am contemplating starting my very first one...for next Sept/Oct...!!
Will keep me on task also for my "training"...lol...and not just for the lifting of the wine glasses...LOL
Must think of something clever....:)

I am thinking of contacting Elliot and finding out if Bing is on his playlist at all during the holidays! lol

[PNO4TE]

You did--and I'm not. I'm from, SC, but dh and his best friend travel up to PA every year for a cigar festival.

I actually live very close to I-95 on the NC/SC border (in NC now, though I still consider myself a South Carolinian.)

And I still think you're too young to start having "senior moments".

You are very kind... but I am probably old enough to have them. :rotfl:

And I will wave at your house as I drive down 95!

[PNO4TE]

speaking of titles for PTR's....I am contemplating starting my very first one...for next Sept/Oct...!!
Will keep me on task also for my "training"...lol...and not just for the lifting of the wine glasses...LOL
Must think of something clever....:)

I am thinking of contacting Elliot and finding out if Bing is on his playlist at all during the holidays! lol

:rotfl: and we can sing along!

[PNO4TE]

We went to see Disney's "A Christmas Carol" in 3-D IMAX yesterday. It was good. Scary and dark and very true to the book, actually. Kristin and I started wondering what, if anything, Disney will do to tie it into the parks... I will be curious to know. I do know that the Christmas decorations are replacing the fall ones. A friend sent a photo she took from Main Street on Friday. No more oranges and golds... all red and green stuff now! :santa:

[PNO4TE]

And, because I can... ;)

It is now Sunday 11/8/2009 at 7:55:03 AM

Event: Whirlwind MVMCP Trip!
Scheduled For 12/5/2009 6:00:00 AM
26 days 22 hours 4 minutes 57 seconds or
3 weekends or
27 days or
646 hours (431 waking hours) or
38,764 minutes or
2,325,896 seconds


Event: Family Christmas at WDW!
Scheduled For 12/18/2009 5:00:00 AM
1 month 10 days 2 hours 4 minutes 34 seconds or
5 weekends or
40 days or
969 hours (646 waking hours) or
58,144 minutes or
3,488,673 seconds

[creativeamanda]

You are very kind... but I am probably old enough to have them. :rotfl:

And I will wave at your house as I drive down 95!

You won't have to wave to hard--we live within 20 minutes of South of the Border.

[creativeamanda]

And, because I can... ;)

It is now Sunday 11/8/2009 at 7:55:03 AM

Event: Whirlwind MVMCP Trip!
Scheduled For 12/5/2009 6:00:00 AM
26 days 22 hours 4 minutes 57 seconds or
3 weekends or
27 days or
646 hours (431 waking hours) or
38,764 minutes or
2,325,896 seconds


Event: Family Christmas at WDW!
Scheduled For 12/18/2009 5:00:00 AM
1 month 10 days 2 hours 4 minutes 34 seconds or
5 weekends or
40 days or
969 hours (646 waking hours) or
58,144 minutes or
3,488,673 seconds

:rotfl2: I thought I was the only one who did that! Am I a long-lost relative or something?

[PNO4TE]

You won't have to wave to hard--we live within 20 minutes of South of the Border.

We have stopped there. once... :rotfl2: But I know where you are now! :thumbsup2

:rotfl2: I thought I was the only one who did that! Am I a long-lost relative or something?

Do you have the CountDown! program on your desktop too??

[creativeamanda]

We have stopped there. once... :rotfl2: But I know where you are now! :thumbsup2



Do you have the CountDown! program on your desktop too??

Yikes--sorry to hear you stopped there. I don't. Ever.

And yes, I have the countdown program on my work laptop.

[Happydog]

Oh I just found your thread!!!! We are going during the same time frame! I am so excited too.. I am so amazed that you and your family have been to WDW for Christmas that many times!!! :worship: It must be so much fun! I can't wait to find out! It will be our first... so many questions! I am going to go back and read now to catch up! Sounds like you will have a fun weekend with DIS friends too!! :thumbsup2

[PNO4TE]

Oh I just found your thread!!!! We are going during the same time frame! I am so excited too.. I am so amazed that you and your family have been to WDW for Christmas that many times!!! :worship: It must be so much fun! I can't wait to find out! It will be our first... so many questions! I am going to go back and read now to catch up! Sounds like you will have a fun weekend with DIS friends too!! :thumbsup2

:welcome: And I hope you love it as much as our family does! Thanks for reading. :goodvibes

[DisneyBride'03]

I can't wait for your Family Christmas Elin!!! or your pre-Family Christmas......aka as...."Why is this Mousekeeper STILL in my room, oh wait...it's DB'03!" LOL

[PNO4TE]

I can't wait for your Family Christmas Elin!!! or your pre-Family Christmas......aka as...."Why is this Mousekeeper STILL in my room, oh wait...it's DB'03!" LOL

Might have to change the title for my TR. I like it! :rotfl: And myBob would be shocked to find you still there, as I am sure yourBob would too! :lmao:

[DisneyBride'03]

Might have to change the title for my TR. I like it! :rotfl: And myBob would be shocked to find you still there, as I am sure yourBob would too! :lmao:
Yep, its my Short but CandyCane Sweet Trip......trust me, if i didnt have 3 kids under the age of 16 to get home to.....ok, myBob too.....I'd be knocking on the door of one of those THV's.....:lmao: "Any room at the INN? I am out of DVC pts...yet again...!:sad1::rolleyes::laughing:"

[RachelTori]

Yep, its my Short but CandyCane Sweet Trip......trust me, if i didnt have 3 kids under the age of 16 to get home to.....ok, myBob too.....I'd be knocking on the door of one of those THV's.....:lmao: "Any room at the INN? I am out of DVC pts...yet again...!:sad1::rolleyes::laughing:"

And just whose THV door would you be knocking on?!!! :rolleyes1


:rotfl:

[DisneyBride'03]

And just whose THV door would you be knocking on?!!! :rolleyes1


:rotfl:

Hmmmmm......:idea:

I'll start with yours:rotfl2:

[RachelTori]

Hmmmmm......:idea:

I'll start with yours:rotfl2:


:thumbsup2

[PNO4TE]

Just remember that between the 4 of us in our two rooms we will eventually have 4 beds... (just sayin')

Of course, how could you possibly explain to the kids and yourBob that you won't be with them on Christmas? :eek:

[DisneyBride'03]

Just remember that between the 4 of us in our two rooms we will eventually have 4 beds... (just sayin')

Of course, how could you possibly explain to the kids and yourBob that you won't be with them on Christmas? :eek:

I couldnt!
I love watching the Disney parade Christmas morning..:santa:..will have a few pangs of guilt with Ava though, knowing I Just returned....:guilty:
Will have to find her something special:angel:
Yesterday she had her purse with "coins" and said now she can go to DisneyWorld...about killed me...lol..she will get to go back next summer hopefully, if for just a quick trip...I have to keep reminding myself she has been 5 times at the age of 3 already!

So.....back to YOUR PTR:laughing::woohoo:

What requests , if any, do you usually make for FQ???

[PNO4TE]

What requests , if any, do you usually make for FQ???

I don't usually! It is such a small resort we have never had a bad room. That being said, I probably jinxed myself and there will be one room out of all of them that is not good and we will get it! :rotfl:

Maybe I will do some research and see what is suggested! Do you have any thoughts? They usually do end up putting our two rooms close together or connecting, so that is not anything I worry about either.

[DisneyBride'03]

Laura has some thoughts...lol

I think she said bldg 2 or 5..neither of these buildings are near a parking lot....do you care what floor....she likes to be on top....
So then you cant hear guests above you...
Corner room....you get 2 windows...and makes the room appear bigger due to the extra sunlight that filters through:)

What do I know, i have never stayed there...lol

Have had it booked many of times...including our wedding trip...but DISNEY changed that one....not me! lol

[PracPerfPatricia]

Glad to hear the Disney version of Christmas Carol is worth seeing...:thumbsup2...(some aren't...I get a little picky with my CC...;)

Oh dear...I may have to break down and get that countdown app for my laptop too...how much fun is that to have...:goodvibes

[PNO4TE]

Laura has some thoughts...lol

I think she said bldg 2 or 5..neither of these buildings are near a parking lot....do you care what floor....she likes to be on top....
So then you cant hear guests above you...
Corner room....you get 2 windows...and makes the room appear bigger due to the extra sunlight that filters through:)

What do I know, i have never stayed there...lol

Have had it booked many of times...including our wedding trip...but DISNEY changed that one....not me! lol

We have stayed in Buildings 3, 4 and 6 and have never had a parking lot view! :rotfl2: I have thought about requesting a corner room for just that reason; have had them at other moderate resorts before.

I can certainly add some requests. The corner room would be my first request. Second or third floor is also nice, although we have had a ground floor room before and liked it a lot. I will call WDW tomorrow or Thursday and add some requests.

[DisneyBride'03]

Corner room request sounds great...and thanks for blowing my bldg/parking lot theory to he!! ! LOL

[creativeamanda]

LOL, am I the only person in the world who requests a parking lot view? I like to keep an eye on my car and not have far to travel with luggage.

[RachelTori]

We have stayed in Buildings 3, 4 and 6 and have never had a parking lot view! :rotfl2: I have thought about requesting a corner room for just that reason; have had them at other moderate resorts before.

I can certainly add some requests. The corner room would be my first request. Second or third floor is also nice, although we have had a ground floor room before and liked it a lot. I will call WDW tomorrow or Thursday and add some requests.

Buildings 1 & 7 have the potential parking lot views. Building 1 is the farthest away from the bus transportation. Bldgs 4 & 7 are closest to the buses. I've stayed at FQ probably 7 or 8 times and been in Building 2 all but 1 time, when I was in Bldg 3. :)

I'm not sure why, but Building 2 has just always called out to me!! ;) My "top floor" preference (in Values & Mods), well.......... let's just say, I don't like to hear certain things!!! :rotfl:

[PNO4TE]

LOL, am I the only person in the world who requests a parking lot view? I like to keep an eye on my car and not have far to travel with luggage.

We usually don't have our own personal car, and I have no desire to watch a rental. :rotfl2: My luggage is on wheels and I don't find POFQ far to schlepp it to anyway, no matter which location.

[PNO4TE]

Buildings 1 & 7 have the potential parking lot views. Building 1 is the farthest away from the bus transportation. Bldgs 4 & 7 are closest to the buses. I've stayed at FQ probably 7 or 8 times and been in Building 2 all but 1 time, when I was in Bldg 3. :)

I'm not sure why, but Building 2 has just always called out to me!! ;) My "top floor" preference (in Values & Mods), well.......... let's just say, I don't like to hear certain things!!! :rotfl:

I understand you, Laura!

[PNO4TE]

It appears that one of my favorite things at WDW during the holidays is not going to be there this year. There is pretty substantial scuttlebut that the Lights of Winter, seen in my siggy photos, have not been put up and that there is no plan to install them this year. :( :mad:

[creativeamanda]

It appears that one of my favorite things at WDW during the holidays is not going to be there this year. There is pretty substantial scuttlebut that the Lights of Winter, seen in my siggy photos, have not been put up and that there is no plan to install them this year. :( :mad:

I had been looking forward to seeing them, and I am disappointed as well.

[RachelTori]

I understand you, Laura!

:laughing: I'm glad someone does!! :rotfl:


It appears that one of my favorite things at WDW during the holidays is not going to be there this year. There is pretty substantial scuttlebut that the Lights of Winter, seen in my siggy photos, have not been put up and that there is no plan to install them this year. :( :mad:

OH, NO!!! I love those lights! :sad1: The ceremony they did with all the characters was so much fun! :cloud9: Without the lights, I'm guessing they won't have that delightful ceremony either. :sad:

:sad2:

[John's Mom]

It appears that one of my favorite things at WDW during the holidays is not going to be there this year. There is pretty substantial scuttlebut that the Lights of Winter, seen in my siggy photos, have not been put up and that there is no plan to install them this year. :( :mad:

:sad2: I love the Lights of Winter!

Let's hope that the scuttlebut is wrong.

[PNO4TE]

I just posted this on the Disney blog site. I hope someone reads the comments there. There are hundreds.

To say I am disappointed in Disney right now would be an understatement. We are Annual Passholders and make at least 2 trips per year. We have been coming to WDW for 14 years to celebrate the holidays. Our children grew up having Santa visit them in the Disney resorts. We bring our Christmas tree and stockings and he always manages to find us there. Part of the holiday celebration for us has always been the spectacular shows and displays that still manage to bring tears to my eyes.

Our children are now grown and still come to join us at WDW for Christmas. We spend 90% of our time in one park during our Christmas trips. Epcot is where we choose to be. First "Cast in Bronze" was eliminated, then the tree-lighting ceremony. And now the substantial rumor is that Lights of Winter will not be installed.

These are the reasons we return. This is what makes WDW our choice of location for celebrating The Season. We might as well go to a house at the beach. We could choose New York City, or Boston or Arizona and receive more holiday spirit than you are leaving us.

I believe things need to evolve. But this is more than that. This is the elimination of what makes the celebration of The Season at WDW so unique and spectacular. Is Christmas and all its trappings no longer an acceptable holiday to celebrate? Are the enormous displays that Disney is known for no longer politically correct?

This is not Good Show.

[Flossbolna]

I am sorry about the Lights of Winter! I am not a huge fan of the WDW Christmas decorations as I have seen them in pictures, I generally find them too much, too unnatural and too commercial looking. Just stating this as my taste, not meaning to say that nobody should like them. But the one thing which really appealed to me the first time I saw pictures of where those Light of Winter. They look so elegant and festive!

I am sorry that they take something away from your traditional Christmas celebration! :hug:

[Happydog]

Oh no! I have only seen pictures, but how sad! Is there info somewhere specifically that talks about this? I will have to go search... I was looking forward to seeing this in particular, as we are spending Xmas eve at Epcot... boo hoo! Can we send more email??!!

[PNO4TE]

A quick update that the Lights of Winter are definitely gone. :sad:

Also... 3 weeks from tomorrow I go to WDW. :)

And... 5 weeks from today I go again! :teeth:

[RachelTori]

A quick update that the Lights of Winter are definitely gone. :sad:

:sad2:



Also... 3 weeks from tomorrow I go to WDW. :)

:yay::woohoo::yay:

and tomorrow I go to WDW!!! :cloud9:


And... 5 weeks from today I go again! :teeth:

:yay::yay::woohoo::yay::yay:

and I will see you then!! :hug:


:goodvibes

[PNO4TE]

Have a wonderful time enjoying WDW on your own, Laura!!

[DisneyBride'03]

And... 5 weeks from today I go again! :teeth:

:jumping1::cool1::yay:

Me Too!!!!! Thanks to YOu!!!





**Hey, anyone notice the dancing banana and santa smileys are gone??**:sad2:

[PNO4TE]

:jumping1::cool1::yay:

Me Too!!!!! Thanks to YOu!!!





**Hey, anyone notice the dancing banana and santa smileys are gone??**:sad2:

:santa: :banana: They are here on my screen ... :confused:

[PNO4TE]

The sun is shining again (finally) and it is supposed to go above 70 today! :yay:

To top it off, it is our annual Dowtown Open House today, so it feels like Christmas around here. I am looking forward to a fun day full of holiday spirit and great music. We have 100+ students playing outside today. :goodvibes

[PNO4TE]

I am in a very Christmas-y mood after our Open House. Look who showed up to see who was naughty or nice!

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/Mobile%20Uploads/1115091651a-1.jpg

[DisneyBride'03]

I am in a very Christmas-y mood after our Open House. Look who showed up to see who was naughty or nice!

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/Mobile%20Uploads/1115091651a-1.jpg

Sooooooooooooooooo.......???

What list where you on Elin?!:santa:

I am sure it was NICE!!!!

(had to adjust my screen, now I have my icons, they were hiding the other day!)

[PNO4TE]

Sooooooooooooooooo.......???

What list where you on Elin?!:santa:

I am sure it was NICE!!!!

(had to adjust my screen, now I have my icons, they were hiding the other day!)

I think I straddle both lists on any given day! :rotfl:

[DisneyBride'03]

Looks like one month from now I will be checking my list (packing) and checking it twice(did I forget anything??!)...day before I leave and I will be singing...."It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year".....Andy and Bing's music make me feel like a little girl at Christmas:)

[PNO4TE]

Looks like one month from now I will be checking my list (packing) and checking it twice(did I forget anything??!)...day before I leave and I will be singing...."It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year".....Andy and Bing's music make me feel like a little girl at Christmas:)

I wish I could arrive on the 18th with you!!! Right now, especially, I feel the need for some holiday cheer at WDW with Bing and Andy. They always make me feel like a little girl too!

[DisneyBride'03]

[QUOTE=PNO4TE;34364503]I wish I could arrive on the 18th with you!!! QUOTE]

well, there is room at the inn that night.....:rolleyes1

[PNO4TE]

There is a very sad update to Trip #1. My friend Sandy lost her husband on Sunday. He was out cycling and had stopped for coffee. He was only 45 years old and leaves 4 children; three are in college and one in high school. Please keep them in your thoughts as this is going to be a tough week for them.

:sad1:

That being said, as of midnight last night, the trip is still scheduled to take place. Sandy feels that she needs the escape if only for a few days. Her daughter Hayley will be joining us on the trip and that is the only change in plans.

[PNO4TE]

I wish I could arrive on the 18th with you!!!

well, there is room at the inn that night.....:rolleyes1

If I thought I could leave after my last recital on Thursday night and get a few hours in I would do it in a heartbeat. I will ponder this possibility and see how I am doing stamina-wise in the next couple of weeks.

Remind me... are you and Laura doing the MVMCP that night?

[PNO4TE]

Oh! Sirius-XM has two of their holiday channels up and running and the first song I heard when I turned the radio on last night was "Silent Night" by Bing! I thought of you right away, Diana. I was singing along at the top of my voice. :rotfl:

[ChelleinNC]

I'm glad to hear that your girls trip is still on, even after the horrible news this weekend. I hope that the Disney magic can help your friend escape her grief for a least a few days :hug:

[PNO4TE]

I'm glad to hear that your girls trip is still on, even after the horrible news this weekend. I hope that the Disney magic can help your friend escape her grief for a least a few days :hug:

Since I can't get to the services on Saturday it will be a very bittersweet meeting on the 5th. :guilty:

But I am hoping that this will be good for her too, Chelle. :goodvibes

[John's Mom]

There is a very sad update to Trip #1. My friend Sandy lost her husband on Sunday. He was out cycling and had stopped for coffee. He was only 45 years old and leaves 4 children; three are in college and one in high school. Please keep them in your thoughts as this is going to be a tough week for them.

:sad1:

That being said, as of midnight last night, the trip is still scheduled to take place. Sandy feels that she needs the escape if only for a few days. Her daughter Hayley will be joining us on the trip and that is the only change in plans.

I will keep Sandy and her family in my thoughts and prayers!:hug:

[DisneyBride'03]

If I thought I could leave after my last recital on Thursday night and get a few hours in I would do it in a heartbeat. I will ponder this possibility and see how I am doing stamina-wise in the next couple of weeks.

Remind me... are you and Laura doing the MVMCP that night?

Nope..she just did the party last night....and the 18th is a premium price night..and the last night of the party....so....too many cons!
So the 18th is open as well as a queen at the CSR!!!:goodvibes

[DisneyBride'03]

Oh! Sirius-XM has two of their holiday channels up and running and the first song I heard when I turned the radio on last night was "Silent Night" by Bing! I thought of you right away, Diana. I was singing along at the top of my voice. :rotfl:

:goodvibes Oh that gave me the warm tingles:):flower3:
"White Christmas"......that is the one I gew up with my grandfather singing every Christmas:santa:

**I didnt read all the posts in order...should have!**

[DisneyBride'03]

There is a very sad update to Trip #1. My friend Sandy lost her husband on Sunday. He was out cycling and had stopped for coffee. He was only 45 years old and leaves 4 children; three are in college and one in high school. Please keep them in your thoughts as this is going to be a tough week for them.

:sad1:

That being said, as of midnight last night, the trip is still scheduled to take place. Sandy feels that she needs the escape if only for a few days. Her daughter Hayley will be joining us on the trip and that is the only change in plans.

Love, Prayers and Hugs to your friend and her children....

[PNO4TE]

Nope..she just did the party last night....and the 18th is a premium price night..and the last night of the party....so....too many cons!
So the 18th is open as well as a queen at the CSR!!!:goodvibes

I will keep thinking on it. I am usually exhausted by the time recital week is over, but maybe it won't be as bad this year (she says hopefully!) Thanks for the offer! :goodvibes :love:

[DisneyBride'03]

well, the last thing I would want is for you to be too tired to get behind the wheel! Whatever works best for you!
I think our plan for the 18th was a 4:30 ADR at Boma then the O-Lights..

[PNO4TE]

well, the last thing I would want is for you to be too tired to get behind the wheel! Whatever works best for you!
I think our plan for the 18th was a 4:30 ADR at Boma then the O-Lights..

I made a hotel reservation about 3 hours away from home for the night of the 17th. If I think I am OK I will leave after the recitals and drive that far on Thursday night. Then I ought to be in WDW in time for the lights. Not sure about for Boma, but maybe I will ask Laura to see if she can add me just in case.

[PNO4TE]

I go to WDW 2 weeks from tomorrow. I cannot believe it.

[DisneyBride'03]

I made a hotel reservation about 3 hours away from home for the night of the 17th. If I think I am OK I will leave after the recitals and drive that far on Thursday night. Then I ought to be in WDW in time for the lights. Not sure about for Boma, but maybe I will ask Laura to see if she can add me just in case.Sounds good to me:) :cool1:

I go to WDW 2 weeks from tomorrow. I cannot believe it.

I go to WDW 4 weeks from today. I cannot believe it.







:laughing::cloud9::yay::dance3:

[PNO4TE]

Sounds good to me:) :cool1:

I go to WDW 4 weeks from today. I cannot believe it.

:laughing::cloud9::yay::dance3:

:dance3: (That is you and Laura and me playing like little kids!)

[PNO4TE]

One step closer... I ordered the girls' park hoppers just now. Merry Christmas to Kathrin and Kristin! :santa:

[DisneyBride'03]

:dance3: (That is you and Laura and me playing like little kids!)

:laughing:that IS exactly what I was thinking when I included that one!!!!

[John's Mom]

I go to WDW 2 weeks from tomorrow. I cannot believe it.

Me too! :woohoo::woohoo::cheer2::cheer2::yay::yay:

[Happydog]

Thank you for sharing your Christmas dinner pictures on my PTR!!!! I think that is just the coolest! I don't see myself being able to do that but cookies, a tree and eggnog will be my attempt for some personalized Holiday magic in the resort room!!!! And I just discovered our Sirius stations were playing Xmas music too!!! I listened all the way to work and back yesterday! :goodvibes I felt like I was cheating!!!

I have a question for you! Is the Christmas parade AFTER the MVMCP is over the same Christmas parade? Do we get snow in the MK?

I would go to the party if we were there, but we miss it by ONE day :sad2:

I thought I heard the show and the parade are the same as the party after the party is over....

[DisneyBride'03]

Me too! :woohoo::woohoo::cheer2::cheer2::yay::yay:

So looks like I will miss you!!
Bet you are so excited!!!!!:banana:

Really hoping Elin leaves Dodge on the 17th now....:banana:
However....dont want her to be too tired though:drive:

[PNO4TE]

Thank you for sharing your Christmas dinner pictures on my PTR!!!! I think that is just the coolest! I don't see myself being able to do that but cookies, a tree and eggnog will be my attempt for some personalized Holiday magic in the resort room!!!! And I just discovered our Sirius stations were playing Xmas music too!!! I listened all the way to work and back yesterday! :goodvibes I felt like I was cheating!!!

I have a question for you! Is the Christmas parade AFTER the MVMCP is over the same Christmas parade? Do we get snow in the MK?

I would go to the party if we were there, but we miss it by ONE day :sad2:

I thought I heard the show and the parade are the same as the party after the party is over....

I have been listening to the Sirius-XM stations all week! :love:

The parade in the afternoon at MK after the MVMCPs are finished is the same parade. I don't remember snow on Main Street, but that doesn't mean it isn't there! Possibly at night?!?!

There is definitely snow at HS for the Osborne Lights. Do NOT miss those!! And it snows during the CP at Epcot. :teeth:

[Happydog]

I have been listening to the Sirius-XM stations all week! :love:

The parade in the afternoon at MK after the MVMCPs are finished is the same parade. I don't remember snow on Main Street, but that doesn't mean it isn't there! Possibly at night?!?!

There is definitely snow at HS for the Osborne Lights. Do NOT miss those!! And it snows during the CP at Epcot. :teeth:

Thanks for sharing! I just realized that you have two December trips planned !!! That is so much fun! I am making lists so I don't forget everything I want to see!! :laughing:

Just a few more weeks! :santa: How exciting for you! :yay:

[PNO4TE]

Thanks for sharing! I just realized that you have two December trips planned !!! That is so much fun! I am making lists so I don't forget everything I want to see!! :laughing:

Just a few more weeks! :santa: How exciting for you! :yay:

The two trips are highly unusual! Our family goes every year for Christmas, but the early December trip is a very quick one. It also promises to be very emotional as you can tell from my posts from the past week.

[ChelleinNC]

The parade in the afternoon at MK after the MVMCPs are finished is the same parade.

It is the same parade, same as the one on TV Christmas day, BUT IMHO it loses something when it's not at night.

And it snows during the CP at Epcot. :teeth:

Really? I've seen Candlelight the last 2 years and it didn't snow during our performances or not up front where we sat :confused3

[PNO4TE]

It is the same parade, same as the one on TV Christmas day, BUT IMHO it loses something when it's not at night.

I agree 100%!!

Really? I've seen Candlelight the last 2 years and it didn't snow during our performances or not up front where we sat :confused3

The snow machines are on top of the overhang under which you have been sitting, my dear. ;) That's probably why you never saw the snow! In all the years we have done CP we have never been able to sit in the front area! And we always have the package. :confused3

[Happydog]

The two trips are highly unusual! Our family goes every year for Christmas, but the early December trip is a very quick one. It also promises to be very emotional as you can tell from my posts from the past week.
Yes, I was sorry to hear about your friend's news. :guilty: Hopefully being with you and in Disney will bring some happiness to her heart.

[PNO4TE]

Today I plan to get out my carry-on and give some thought to what I need for my quickie trip. I won't need much as long as it doesn't rain! And two weeks from tonight I will be going to the MVMCP! I am very much looking forward to that. We haven't been in quite a few years! :yay:

I also need to get some Thanksgiving food shopping done but we haven't discussed what we are making yet.

And then tonight is the choral concert at UMW. We are singing Rutter's "Gloria" in honor of the upcoming season and it is a very powerful piece. I can't wait to hear it with organ and brass and timpani. I wasn't at dress rehearsal yesterday so I don't know what it sounds like yet!

It should be fun and it ought to put me in a better frame of mind. I don't like feeling like Eeyore! I much prefer my usual Tigger-like outlook. How do people who are perpetually sad or looking at the half-empty glass exist on a daily basis? It is draining and I am bound and determined to get out of this funk.

[PNO4TE]

Yes, I was sorry to hear about your friend's news. :guilty: Hopefully being with you and in Disney will bring some happiness to her heart.

What a lovely way to put it! Thank you! :goodvibes

[PNO4TE]

The long-range forecast for my weekend trip doesn't look too bad:

Accuweather.com says Saturday will be Mostly Cloudy with a high of 66 and a low of 48. Sunday is to be Mostly Sunny with a high of 65 and a low of 55.

Weather.com isn't out that far yet, but I hope accuweather is right!

[MEK]

There is a very sad update to Trip #1. My friend Sandy lost her husband on Sunday. He was out cycling and had stopped for coffee. He was only 45 years old and leaves 4 children; three are in college and one in high school. Please keep them in your thoughts as this is going to be a tough week for them.

:sad1:

That being said, as of midnight last night, the trip is still scheduled to take place. Sandy feels that she needs the escape if only for a few days. Her daughter Hayley will be joining us on the trip and that is the only change in plans.



I got really behind on your PTR and just read this. I am so sorry for your firend's loss. That is so tragic and unexpected. I am glad she and her daughter are still going to join you. They have some really tough days ahead. I hope this trip will bring a little sunlight into their lives.

p.s. concert today (?) sounds lovely. I love the timpani. I think it adds so much.

[PNO4TE]

p.s. concert today (?) sounds lovely. I love the timpani. I think it adds so much.

The concert was a hit! Our final piece was John Rutter's Gloria and the timpani really made it a stellar performance!

[PNO4TE]

Long range weather forecast for the first trip:

Saturday, December 5
http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/Miscellaneous/03.gif Partial Sunshine
High: 64 °F Low: 50 °F


Sunday, December 6
http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/Miscellaneous/03.gif Clouds and Sunshine
High: 66 °F Low: 53 °F

[PNO4TE]

And...

Event: Whirlwind MVMCP Trip!
Scheduled For 12/5/2009 6:00:00 AM
10 days 22 hours 51 minutes 6 seconds or
1 weekend or
11 days or
262 hours (175 waking hours) or
15,771 minutes or
946,265 seconds

[ChelleinNC]

Today I plan to get out my carry-on and give some thought to what I need for my quickie trip. I won't need much as long as it doesn't rain! And two weeks from tonight I will be going to the MVMCP! I am very much looking forward to that. We haven't been in quite a few years! :yay:

I also need to get some Thanksgiving food shopping done but we haven't discussed what we are making yet.

And then tonight is the choral concert at UMW. We are singing Rutter's "Gloria" in honor of the upcoming season and it is a very powerful piece. I can't wait to hear it with organ and brass and timpani. I wasn't at dress rehearsal yesterday so I don't know what it sounds like yet!

It should be fun and it ought to put me in a better frame of mind. I don't like feeling like Eeyore! I much prefer my usual Tigger-like outlook. How do people who are perpetually sad or looking at the half-empty glass exist on a daily basis? It is draining and I am bound and determined to get out of this funk.

Your forecast looks great and I hope that helps lift your spirits a little :santa:

[PNO4TE]

Your forecast looks great and I hope that helps lift your spirits a little :santa:

Thanks, Michelle!

[PNO4TE]

The forecast continues to look promising for December 5-7. I don't mind the rain for my return trip home. Just please, "don't rain on my (MVMCP) parade!" ;)

[Happydog]

I hope it all works out for you and your friend... And a Happy Thanksgiving to you!

[RachelTori]

Happy Thanksgiving Elin! (and everyone else!! ;))

I'm so sorry to hear about your friend's husband. :flower3: I think Happydog's sentiment was beautiful. I second that thought! :goodvibes

:hug:

[PNO4TE]

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c69/PNO4TE/Miscellaneous/happy-thanksgiving1.gif

[PNO4TE]

I am under 10 days!! :yay:

Enjoy your days of thanks, everyone. How lucky are we all? :teeth:

[PNO4TE]

So... the weather forecast is ever-changing!

Now accuweather.com says:

Saturday, Dec 5
Partly Sunny
Low: 56 °F
High: 70 °F

Sunday, Dec 6
Mostly Cloudy
Low: 57 °F
High: 77 °F

And weather.com says:

Saturday, Dec 5
Showers
High: 70°
Low: 57°

Sunday, Dec 6
Partly Cloudy
High: 73°
Low: 59°

The temps are closer to being the same now, but the actual precipitation/sun forecast is very different. I like accuweather better!!

[PNO4TE]

This morning I got my manicure and pedicure. Then I laid out my clothes and got my carryon out to pack. I will not put the things into it until Friday morning because the weather forecast(s) are very changeable.

I need to do two weeks worth of lesson plans in the next couple of days. Since I will be returning next Monday just in time to get to the studio to teach, those things have to be done and sitting there waiting for me!

[PNO4TE]

Oh... and in case anyone is counting...

Event: Whirlwind MVMCP Trip!
Scheduled For 12/5/2009 6:00:00 AM
6 days 13 hours 37 minutes 23 seconds or
0 weekends or
7 days or
157 hours (105 waking hours) or
9,457 minutes or
567,442 seconds

[PNO4TE]

Ahem....















http://www.glittermaker.com/temp-images/7/402/glitter-candy-125950676259132.gif

[RachelTori]

Ahem....




http://www.glittermaker.com/temp-images/7/402/glitter-candy-125950676259132.gif


:laughing: ELIN...... You're all sparkly today!!! :thumbsup2


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

[oybolshoi]

Excellent!!! :thumbsup2 :hug:

Ahem....















http://www.glittermaker.com/temp-images/7/402/glitter-candy-125950676259132.gif

[PNO4TE]

:laughing: ELIN...... You're all sparkly today!!! :thumbsup2


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

I am feeling sparkly today for some reason, Laura! :laughing:

Excellent!!! :thumbsup2 :hug:

indeed, Brenda!! ::yes::

[PNO4TE]

We got Bob and Kristin's Magical Express packet in the mail last week, but nothing had come for Kathrin yet. So I called WDW yesterday and we discovered that it had never been mailed. Why, you ask?

They had her entire address correctly inputted in their system with one "minor" detail... no state! How can you have an address, including a zip code, but not be able to determine the state? :headache:

They have promised to send out her documents ASAP so that she will have them for her arrival on the 22nd.

[ChelleinNC]

That makes no sense at all :confused3 Glad the mistake was found and the documents on their way :goodvibes

[PNO4TE]

I talked to Sandy by email this week and finally remembered to ask her where we are staying this weekend! :rotfl: I knew we were at AKV but wasn't certain whether we had a studio at Jambo or Kidani. Now I know to tell my driver on Saturday that I need to go to Jambo. :yay:

I am still a little in denial that I will be on a plane bound for WDW 4 days from right now. It doesn't seem possible. But I can't wait.

[PNO4TE]

That makes no sense at all :confused3 Glad the mistake was found and the documents on their way :goodvibes

Me too, Chelle! I am glad we had two separate packets coming or I never would have caught it in time, I fear.

[PNO4TE]

From many different places... :rotfl2:

Accuweather.com:

Saturday, Dec 5
Mostly cloudy, rain possible
Low: 49 °F
High: 67 °F

Sunday, Dec 6
Periods of sunshine
Low: 54 °F
High: 73

Weather.com

Saturday, Dec 5
Partly Cloudy
High: 66°
Low: 50°

Sunday, Dec 6
Partly Cloudy
High: 75°
Low: 55°

Weather Channel Desktop Max (on my computer)

Saturday, Dec 5
Partly Cloudy
High: 68°
Low: 49°

Sunday, Dec 6
Partly Cloudy
High: 76°
Low: 55°


I will take any of those! Our highs here at home are to be in the 40s this weekend. :goodvibes

[Flossbolna]

I think I prefer the last weather option! :goodvibes Still too early to check weather for us... :rolleyes1 Only four days - but that's still longer than you will actually be there, isn't it? :goodvibes

[TheDISneyFamily]

Have a great time, Elin! :santa:

[Happydog]

Have a wonderful trip -- your warm up to your second Disney Christmas trip!!!! :goodvibes I am sure you and your friend will have such a special time together...

[PNO4TE]

I think I prefer the last weather option! :goodvibes Still too early to check weather for us... :rolleyes1 Only four days - but that's still longer than you will actually be there, isn't it? :goodvibes

Have a great time, Elin! :santa:

Have a wonderful trip -- your warm up to your second Disney Christmas trip!!!! :goodvibes I am sure you and your friend will have such a special time together...

Thanks, ladies! For the record, the weather forecast has changed in the past 12 hours! :rotfl: I give up. I will pack layering things and a poncho and umbrella. Those things as well as an extra pair of shoes ought to take care of the 48 hours I am there. :upsidedow

[oybolshoi]

Elin have a fabulous trip! :goodvibes

[ChelleinNC]

You'll have a fabulous no matter what the weather is! Good luck with the packing though ;)

[Flossbolna]

Have a wonderful trip!! :goodvibes

[PNO4TE]

Elin have a fabulous trip! :goodvibes

Thanks, Brenda!! :goodvibes

You'll have a fabulous no matter what the weather is! Good luck with the packing though ;)

The packing is done, Chelle. I am all packed in a small carry-on!

I packed two extra pairs of jeans on the off-chance one pair gets so wet I can't wear them on Monday. I really wish I could have taken a pair of khaki capris instead of that second pair of jeans, but I fear this is not the weekend for shorter pants. ;)

I have four shirts of varying weights and shirt sleeve lengths to layer. I have two pairs of shoes plus the pair I will wear tomorrow. I also packed 4 pairs of socks just in case. I will wear my Lands End fleece jacket on the plane and I have a poncho and an umbrella. I think I ought to be OK!

[PNO4TE]

Have a wonderful trip!! :goodvibes

Thanks, Magdalene!! :goodvibes

[PNO4TE]

I just checked in and printed my boarding pass for tomorrow morning. 24 hours from now I will be well on my way! Unless... you are not going to believe this...

It was 68 here yesterday and for tomorrow the weather forecast calls for our first "measurable" snow! :eek: I am hoping to be up and over those storm clouds before anything frozen begins to fall. I may leave here earlier than I had planned just to beat the weather. I will update as I know what the heck is expected.

But now, more than even before, I am delighted to be going to WDW. The only snow I want to see for a while is what Disney will show me on Main Street during MVMCP and at the Osborne Lights! :teeth:

[RachelTori]

Shhhhh - no "S" word allowed!! :eek: (but I'll bet the grocery stores have been a madhouse today with people stocking up on milk, bread, eggs and beer!!! :rotfl2:)

Safe travels, Elin. Wishing you and your friends a magical weekend! pixiedust:

:goodvibes

[disneyfav4ever]

Have a great trip!

[Flossbolna]

I hope all snow stays away!!! :goodvibes

[PNO4TE]

Shhhhh - no "S" word allowed!! :eek: (but I'll bet the grocery stores have been a madhouse today with people stocking up on milk, bread, eggs and beer!!! :rotfl2:)

Safe travels, Elin. Wishing you and your friends a magical weekend! pixiedust:

:goodvibes

You are so right, Laura - the stores were packed! I needed to grab a few things for Bob and Kristin for this weekend and could have kicked myself for not going sooner!

I know we will have a great time, thanks.

Have a great trip!

Thank you so much!!! :goodvibes

I hope all snow stays away!!! :goodvibes

Thank you.... Just need it to stay away until I get to the airport!! :)

[Happydog]

I just checked in and printed my boarding pass for tomorrow morning. 24 hours from now I will be well on my way! Unless... you are not going to believe this...

It was 68 here yesterday and for tomorrow the weather forecast calls for our first "measurable" snow! :eek: I am hoping to be up and over those storm clouds before anything frozen begins to fall. I may leave here earlier than I had planned just to beat the weather. I will update as I know what the heck is expected.

But now, more than even before, I am delighted to be going to WDW. The only snow I want to see for a while is what Disney will show me on Main Street during MVMCP and at the Osborne Lights! :teeth:

I KNOW can you believe this weather report!!!!! We are in the same boat!!!! (MD up 270)... OMG! :scared1: I don't know if I am ready for snow! I too would rather see it in Disney!!! :laughing: Good luck tomorrow!

[PNO4TE]

I KNOW can you believe this weather report!!!!! We are in the same boat!!!! (MD up 270)... OMG! :scared1: I don't know if I am ready for snow! I too would rather see it in Disney!!! :laughing: Good luck tomorrow!


I am off for the airport! It is still 45 degrees here, so I will miss the snow. Good luck with it Happydog! ;)

I will post an update when I get home from work on Monday evening. Meanwhile, everyone have a wonderful weekend. I know I will. :yay:

[RachelTori]

I am off for the airport! It is still 45 degrees here, so I will miss the snow. Good luck with it Happydog! ;)

I will post an update when I get home from work on Monday evening. Meanwhile, everyone have a wonderful weekend. I know I will. :yay:

:thumbsup2 We'll be thinking of you this weekend, Elin (and dreaming of the upcoming trip!!! ;))

[PracPerfPatricia]

I hope you have an easy trip home and that your weekend was fabtastic! Can't wait to hear all about it...:goodvibes

[PNO4TE]

I am home!! The trip was wonderful. Full of good times and sad times. The best way to describe it is that we cried a little and laughed a lot. We also did an insane amount of park and resort hopping. :eek:

I will try to update tomorrow, but I am dead tired. We got in last night/this morning after 1:30 and the alarm went off at 5:30. When I got home I taught my normal schedule. So I need sleep. Thanks for your patience!!

[oybolshoi]

Welcome home Elin; glad you had a good trip. :goodvibes