Snow-Wigd and the Christmas Elves, a December pre-trip!

[wigdoutdismom]

Today was ADR day! So I decided it was time to get this party started.
I imagine there will be some bumps in the road between now and December 20th so hang on to your seats!
I'll be back with the cast, the dates, and all the other important stuff..... :earsgirl: :santa: :santa::santa::santa::santa: :santa:

[wsushocker]

Which elf am I?

[Happydog]

wow!!!! wow!!!! I MADE IT FIRST!! Shocker doesn't count... he is in your household... :lmao:

[cmskok]

I'm Here! I'm in!

First Page!

Did u get your ADR's?

[wsushocker]

wow!!!! wow!!!! I MADE IT FIRST!! Shocker doesn't count... he is in your household... :lmao:

"Shocker doesn't count.....


http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/angry.jpg

[Charleston Princess]

I'm here! I'm here!

Clearly, Shocker is Grumpy judging by that picture. :lmao:

[Lady Lallie]

:lmao: Snow - Wigd. PERFECT. I think this is the best title I have ever seen! So clever! :rotfl:

[Disneymoon09]

I'm in! Can't wait to hear more. perhaps your planning will light a fire under me to get some of my own december planning done!

[shannn]

I'm here and I'm so excited!! I can't wait to see what you got and compare notes.

And I can't wait to meet y'all.

[Happydog]

"Shocker doesn't count.....


http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/angry.jpg

Wait............................ Don't you teach Math??


:rotfl2::rotfl2:

[shannn]

Wait............................ Don't you teach Math??


:rotfl2::rotfl2:

Okay, now that was funny!

[DWGal210]

Yeah, here I am! Isn't it crazy how fast these past few months have gone?! I can't believe it!

Excited to hear all about your plans!! :thumbsup2

[jillyb]

Woohoo! Another Wigd PT/TR!!! I swear...seems like ya'll were just planning your summer trip and now here it is almost Christmas! :eek:

[PracPerfPatricia]

OMG-How did I miss that you were going for Christmas????:eek:

I'm in...:yay:

30 second pity party-all the lucky kids are going to wdw for Halloween or Christmas...:headache: I want to go too...

Ok pity party over...

bring it on...popcorn::

[wigdoutdismom]

Which elf am I?
Let's just say you are the elf with the credit card.....
wow!!!! wow!!!! I MADE IT FIRST!! Shocker doesn't count... he is in your household... :lmao:
I agree, you are official! Number one on the thread!:laughing:
I'm Here! I'm in!

First Page!

Did u get your ADR's?
Yay! Welcome! We got almost everything....
33667234]"Shocker doesn't count.....


http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/angry.jpg[/COLOR]
:scared1: No scary faces, this is a Christmas trip!
I'm here! I'm here!

Clearly, Shocker is Grumpy judging by that picture. :lmao:
Grumpy, freaky, nightmarish? Let's hope he gets that fixed.
:lmao: Snow - Wigd. PERFECT. I think this is the best title I have ever seen! So clever! :rotfl:
Shocker was the mastermind behind that one, I just helped a little.:goodvibes
I'm in! Can't wait to hear more. perhaps your planning will light a fire under me to get some of my own december planning done!
I hope it does, you go much sooner than us!
I'm here and I'm so excited!! I can't wait to see what you got and compare notes.

And I can't wait to meet y'all.
We are going to have a blast! I can't wait either!:goodvibes
Wait............................ Don't you teach Math??


:rotfl2::rotfl2:
Maybe he just scares them into learning!
Okay, now that was funny!
Funny? Poor students...... Hey I know you can take that guy camping with you and the 5th graders!
Yeah, here I am! Isn't it crazy how fast these past few months have gone?! I can't believe it!

Excited to hear all about your plans!! :thumbsup2
At times it flies by and then it seems to crawl. I am so missing a fall trip this year!
Woohoo! Another Wigd PT/TR!!! I swear...seems like ya'll were just planning your summer trip and now here it is almost Christmas! :eek:
It almost seems that my summer trip report isn't done yet, oh wait, it isn't!:rotfl2:
OMG-How did I miss that you were going for Christmas????:eek:
It's in my revolving ticker but perhaps a little hard to read, I've added every sort of date I can think of on that thing.:laughing:

I'm in...:yay:
I'm glad you are here!

30 second pity party-all the lucky kids are going to wdw for Halloween or Christmas...:headache: I want to go too...

Ok pity party over...

bring it on...popcorn::
I totally understand, I've been having a tough time with all the fall trips and DIS-meets just around the corner. We got spoiled last year with 4 trips so close together that it kills me to wait 6 months between trips. I know, poor me.


********************:santa:
Those of you that have followed us on our previous adventures know the usual crew.
Marc, Baylor and I (the mom). We are taking a few more this Christmas! We have Harper, our granddaughter 17 months, her mommy and daddy, Megan and Matt (oldest daughter), Keeley (younger daughter) and Max, our German exchange student. At times will be referred to at FES......especially when in trouble as he has been lately!:headache:

The details are flying out very early in the morning of December 20. I think we need to be at the airport about 5:30.
Arriving at Orlando around noon.
Spending 5 fun filled nights at Kidani in a 2 bedroom villa.
Flying out the 25th at 5:00 in the afternoon.

We've got plans and ADRs.
Still trying to figure some things out, especially Fantasmic. We have a couple of first time visitors so we want them to see all the cool stuff. I know, I know, not enough time in an almost 6 day trip but this will be as commando as they want it to be. I imagine some of mine and Marc's time will be spent at Kidani with a sleeping baby. That's OK, just as long as I make my ADRs and see Spectro. I unbelievably missed in this past summer and we were there for 2 weeks!

Up next, Where are we eating? What are we doing? What Disney tradition am I breaking???

[IluvXU]

Saw your siggie... have to join. I am just trying to read DIS right now, not much time to post!

[shannn]

Funny? Poor students...... Hey I know you can take that guy camping with you and the 5th graders!


We're leaving at 9:00 this morning. Marc better get here quick if he wants to tag along!

[jenjolt]

Holy Moly...how did I miss this Anita LOL!!!!! At least I made before my usual page 4 LOL!! I can't wait to hear all about your plans!! I hope you got a lot of pixie dust making those ADRs!!!!!! YAY I'm so excited for you...Disney at Christmas time, away from that Kansas winter!! WOOT!!!!! :banana::cool1:

[manntra]

I'm here too! :goodvibes Love the TR name! :yay: Hope you got all of the ADR's you wanted....I know it must be tough this time around planning for so many more people. Looking forward to all of your plans! :goodvibes FES omg :rotfl::rotfl:

Tracy

[H20DogsNDisney]

How cool you started you PTR!:yay::yay::yay::yay::yay::yay::yay:

[wigdoutdismom]

Saw your siggie... have to join. I am just trying to read DIS right now, not much time to post!
I'm glad you are here! I'll bet you are busy with school, two busy girls and a baby to take care of!

We're leaving at 9:00 this morning. Marc better get here quick if he wants to tag along!
I think he missed the trip! You all have a wonderful time filled with learning and lots of laughs!
Holy Moly...how did I miss this Anita LOL!!!!! At least I made before my usual page 4 LOL!! I can't wait to hear all about your plans!! I hope you got a lot of pixie dust making those ADRs!!!!!! YAY I'm so excited for you...Disney at Christmas time, away from that Kansas winter!! WOOT!!!!! :banana::cool1:
I think Christmas will be so much fun but right now I'm quite envious of you all almost out the door!
I'm here too! :goodvibes Love the TR name! :yay: Hope you got all of the ADR's you wanted....I know it must be tough this time around planning for so many more people. Looking forward to all of your plans! :goodvibes FES omg :rotfl::rotfl:

Tracy
Shocker and I collaborated on the TR name. I wasn't sure in the beginning but now it makes me smile! I'll update tonight with our ADRs.:goodvibes
How cool you started you PTR!:yay::yay::yay::yay::yay::yay::yay:

I know, I know, can you believe it!

[wigdoutdismom]

Tonight I feel like making lists so here is our list of wishes for this trip.

1. Wishes Cruise with DIS friend Shann
2. Candlelight Processional package Biergarten on Christmas Eve Edward James
Olmos narrator
3. Le Cellier lunch
4. Tusker House breakfast early
5. Osborne lights
6. Rose & Crown with seating for Illuminations
7. Girls lunch at HBD
8. Birthday Kitchen Sink at B&C with our DIS friend Rtobe
9. Fantasmic package Mama Melrose
10 Liberty Tree Tavern lunch
11. 50's Prime Time lunch or dinner

The planning was difficult, so much to fit in, such a short trip, then throw a toddler in the mix and well.........we'll just see how it all works out.

Decision 1
Happydog you were right on with this!

Break tradition, no castle on our first day. The plan will be Osborne lights at DHS. Maybe a quick sneak to MK for EMH but probably not, it will be a long day for Harper....

ADR day came and went and this is what we have!

Sunday 12/20 50's PT 5:30

Monday 12/21 Le Cellier 11:50
Wishes Cruise Thanks for booking Shannon!

Tuesday 12/22 Tusker House breakfast 8:20
Rose & Crown dinner 8:20

Wednesday 12/23 Liberty Tree Tavern 11:50

Thursday 12/21 Candlelight Processional with Biergarten early seating
Back to Magic Kingdom last night with the castle and Spectro

Friday Christmas Hollywood Brown Derby lunch girls only (this isn't feeling
right since it's Christmas....) guys on their own for a CS at
DHS. Catch ME at 2:00 then fly home

Still thinking about doing some switching so we can all eat together on Christmas....

Trying to figure out what to do about Fantasmic.
This is a first trip for some.
Marc, Baylor and I are the only ones that have seen it.
I think they would enjoy, so when to fit it in.....
Suggestions?

I have more decisions to make!

[BrooklynnsMommy]

While I may not be first I did beat MeMom so I'm pretty porud of that!! Can't wait to hear about all the adventures with Harper. We went on agirl's trip right after Christmas when Brooklynn was about 16 months old and she loved the Osborne Lights. I think we could have stood on that street all night and she would have been fine with it.

[jenjolt]

What great plans!!!!!

Wow you are dining at some great places!!!!! I can't wait to read your TR!!!

Oh the Osbourne Lights....YAY!!!! I would go to Disney at that time just to see those!!!!!

I think you should do Fantasmic, everyone should at least see it once!!!!

Great start to your plans Anita!!!

[lmillercrew]

When you put down your ADR's with your schedule it doesn't look lik that long of a trip. You WILL be doing commando style compared to what you are used to. BUT, at least you are going and you are going during Christmas! :yay:

[wigdoutdismom]

While I may not be first I did beat MeMom so I'm pretty porud of that!! Can't wait to hear about all the adventures with Harper. We went on agirl's trip right after Christmas when Brooklynn was about 16 months old and she loved the Osborne Lights. I think we could have stood on that street all night and she would have been fine with it.
Hi Jill! Poor MeMom, is anyone going to tell her about this new little playground? I'm sure it's all she can do to keep up with what she is doing right now, plus that knee!
What great plans!!!!!

Wow you are dining at some great places!!!!! I can't wait to read your TR!!!

Oh the Osbourne Lights....YAY!!!! I would go to Disney at that time just to see those!!!!!

I think you should do Fantasmic, everyone should at least see it once!!!!

Great start to your plans Anita!!!
I think they should at least go to Fantasmic, even if we end up doing something else with Harper. We don't go every time we are there but we have seen it several times. I imagine we will not try to stay together all of the time unless they want to. Yay for cell phones!
When you put down your ADR's with your schedule it doesn't look lik that long of a trip. You WILL be doing commando style compared to what you are used to. BUT, at least you are going and you are going during Christmas! :yay:

Nope we are kind of stuck with a 5 night trip. Although how can you say "stuck" when it's Disney?
Our Christmas Break begins the day before we leave, then it's the week between Christmas and New Years, I've heard that it's crazy busy then. Plus points for Friday and Saturday nights are outrageous! If it werejust the three of us and it weren't such a busy time of year we might have considered a split stay and moving for the weekend, but not with such a large group.
I am very anxious to Disney in it's Christmas finery!:santa:

[cjackearl]

Yea, a new playground!! Having never planned or even read a TR about a trip to WDW at Christmas, I'm in the dark about so many things, such as Osborne Lights and the Candlelight Processional. I'm looking forward to getting a Disney Christmas edumacation from you and Happydog.:goodvibes

[MEK]

Well what do my wondering eyes reveal....?, but a Wigdout PTR and eight tiny reindeer (oops.....I mean 11 elves).

This looks like another fun read. Great ADR's!

[kschafer]

Ah ha! I found where you have been hiding!! ;)

I'm here now :yay:

[wigdoutdismom]

Yea, a new playground!! Having never planned or even read a TR about a trip to WDW at Christmas, I'm in the dark about so many things, such as Osborne Lights and the Candlelight Processional. I'm looking forward to getting a Disney Christmas edumacation from you and Happydog.:goodvibes
This Christmas trip to Disney is totally new for us too! I'm anxious to experience as much as we can. Gosh I wish we had a longer trip!
Well what do my wondering eyes reveal....?, but a Wigdout PTR and eight tiny reindeer (oops.....I mean 11 elves).

This looks like another fun read. Great ADR's!
:rotfl2: I'll just tell you this, I have a feeling we are taking too many elves! We shall see how it all plays out...
Ah ha! I found where you have been hiding!! ;)

I'm here now :yay:
Yay! I'm glad you are here! Now if I could just liven things up a bit.....

[vamassey1]

I'm coming out of Lurkdoom. I've been following along on your other report but started it kind of late. Since I'm hitting this one pretty early I'm going to join in on the fun. I :love: Disney in all it's Christmas finery. We went between Christmas and New Years 2005/2006. We didn't arrive until 12/30 and stayed until 1/7. I loved the decoration but hearing Christmas music up until 1/6 got real old.

Harper is going to love all the sights and sounds.

[wigdoutdismom]

I'm coming out of Lurkdoom. I've been following along on your other report but started it kind of late. Since I'm hitting this one pretty early I'm going to join in on the fun. I :love: Disney in all it's Christmas finery. We went between Christmas and New Years 2005/2006. We didn't arrive until 12/30 and stayed until 1/7. I loved the decoration but hearing Christmas music up until 1/6 got real old.

Harper is going to love all the sights and sounds.


I'm so glad you joined the fun!
I'll bet you did get tired of "Jingle Bells"!:laughing: Did you get to stay long enough to see the crowds go home? I would love to see New Years Eve fireworks someday, I'll bet they were grand!

[eandesmom]

I'm in!

Oh..the Osbourne lights.....

Edward James Olmos narrating...

Oh.

I'm in!

[wigdoutdismom]

I'm in!

Oh..the Osbourne lights.....

Edward James Olmos narrating...

Oh.

I'm in!

I'm glad you are here! It's going to be a fun trip report to write. I imagine it will be full of family drama right along with the Christmas magic....:santa:

[vamassey1]

I'm so glad you joined the fun!
I'll bet you did get tired of "Jingle Bells"!:laughing: Did you get to stay long enough to see the crowds go home? I would love to see New Years Eve fireworks someday, I'll bet they were grand!

The crowds left on New Years Day which fell on a Sunday. We missed the fireworks. We had every intention of catching them at Epcot, we had staked out a spot and everything. Our day had started too early. We did get to see the Christmas parade at Mk on New Year's Eve!

This was our first stay at Pop and I was so looking forward to hearing the themed music, instead we heard Christmas music up until 1/6.

[wsushocker]

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/christmas-princess-snow-white.jpg
Snow Wigd


http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/Bashful4.jpg
Harper


http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/Doc1.jpg
Megan

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/Dopey1.jpg
Max

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/kt_Grumpy.jpg
Keeley

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/Happy1.jpg
Baylor

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/kt_Sleepy.jpg
Matt

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/kt_Sneezy1.jpg
Shocker (I would prefer being Doc!)

[wigdoutdismom]

Fairly accurate description!:lmao:
So that's what you've been doing while I've been slaving over laundry and housework.....

[shannn]

Fairly accurate description!:lmao:
So that's what you've been doing while I've been slaving over laundry and housework.....

That's exactly what I hear from my husband when I show him some new addition to my Disney binder. "So, that's what you've been doing while I was mowing the lawn." :laughing:

[MeMom]

While I may not be first I did beat MeMom so I'm pretty porud of that!! Can't wait to hear about all the adventures with Harper. We went on agirl's trip right after Christmas when Brooklynn was about 16 months old and she loved the Osborne Lights. I think we could have stood on that street all night and she would have been fine with it.

Hi Jill! Poor MeMom, is anyone going to tell her about this new little playground? I'm sure it's all she can do to keep up with what she is doing right now, plus that knee!





Our Christmas Break begins the day before we leave, then it's the week between Christmas and New Years, I've heard that it's crazy busy then. Plus points for Friday and Saturday nights are outrageous! If it werejust the three of us and it weren't such a busy time of year we might have considered a split stay and moving for the weekend, but not with such a large group.
I am very anxious to Disney in it's Christmas finery! :santa:


You know, Jill did tell me about this yesterday, but then I came home and totally forgot. I am a bad friend!

And I even got your package in the mail yesterday, and I still forgot your new PTR. Double bad friend!

Speaking of the package - that was wonderful, but too much! I can totally see why you were reminded of Brooklynn with the Hook and Pan one! That is Brooklynn, for sure. The others are also so sweet. You are too kind!

Especially to a double bad friend.

We'll be getting in on the evening of the 27th, so we are just missing you! I wish you guys could stay for the NYE on the Poly beach meet!

Disney at Christmas is very pretty. Just going around to the resorts and seeing the decor is an activity within itself. The Christmas parade is great at MK, and Jammin' Jungle at AK becomes Jingle Jungle. I love it, and I can't wait to be back there at that time!

It is busy, though. Early EMH is a must if you want to get anything done. Jill, Brooklynn, and I went in on Christmas night (after having Christmas morning at home for Brooklynn) year before last, and it was the best feeling. We've been in Disney World on Thanksgiving Day, too. One of these times, I want us to go down for the week of Christmas, like you guys are doing, and have Christmas there.

As for your separate stuff at Hollywood Studios, I'd want to have an all-family meal on Christmas Day, too. Maybe you can find something that will work for all of you.

[wigdoutdismom]

That's exactly what I hear from my husband when I show him some new addition to my Disney binder. "So, that's what you've been doing while I was mowing the lawn." :laughing:
In his defense, he was also going through a huge pile of mail. I detest that job!
You know, Jill did tell me about this yesterday, but then I came home and totally forgot. I am a bad friend!

And I even got your package in the mail yesterday, and I still forgot your new PTR. Double bad friend!

Speaking of the package - that was wonderful, but too much! I can totally see why you were reminded of Brooklynn with the Hook and Pan one! That is Brooklynn, for sure. The others are also so sweet. You are too kind!

Especially to a double bad friend.

We'll be getting in on the evening of the 27th, so we are just missing you! I wish you guys could stay for the NYE on the Poly beach meet!

Disney at Christmas is very pretty. Just going around to the resorts and seeing the decor is an activity within itself. The Christmas parade is great at MK, and Jammin' Jungle at AK becomes Jingle Jungle. I love it, and I can't wait to be back there at that time!

It is busy, though. Early EMH is a must if you want to get anything done. Jill, Brooklynn, and I went in on Christmas night (after having Christmas morning at home for Brooklynn) year before last, and it was the best feelings. We've been in Disney World on Thanksgiving Day, too. One of these times, I want us to go down for the week of Christmas, like you guys are doing, and have Christmas there.

As for your separate stuff at Hollywood Studios, I'd want to have an all-family meal on Christmas Day, too. Maybe you can find something that will work for all of you.

We just booked LTT for lunch on Christmas Day! We will see when to fit in that HBD girls lunch some other day.

I'm glad you liked the stuff in the package. It made me think of your CP breakfast...
AND for the records, you are NOT a bad friend! Shame on me for not telling you about the PTR.....

[MeMom]

We just booked LTT for lunch on Christmas Day! We will see when to fit in that HBD girls lunch some other day.

I'm glad you liked the stuff in the package. It made me think of your CP breakfast...
AND for the records, you are NOT a bad friend! Shame on me for not telling you about the PTR.....

Yay for the all-family meal - and in the beautiful Magic Kingdom which will be dressed up in Christmasy things. That'll be fun!


After opening the package, I was ready to put up a Christmas tree! :laughing:
Brooklynn will be here Friday night or Saturday morning, because we are going to Disney on Ice this weekend. I'm going to close the box back up and let her open them herself. I was just too curious, so I had to peek. :)

[vamassey1]

We had dinner at Cinderella's Castle on Thanksgiving in 2002. Our group was 15 people and we loved it. Best part, no dishes!

LTT sounds like a good choice. It makes me think of the early Americans gathering together to celebrate the holidays. It's it's in the perfect spot to pick up a little something for your Christmas Tree.

[wigdoutdismom]

Yay for the all-family meal - and in the beautiful Magic Kingdom which will be dressed up in Christmasy things. That'll be fun!


After opening the package, I was ready to put up a Christmas tree! :laughing:
Brooklynn will be here Friday night or Saturday morning, because we are going to Disney on Ice this weekend. I'm going to close the box back up and let her open them herself. I was just too curious, so I had to peek. :)
I just have one worry about this meal, what if the MK is at capacity? I know that there will be no rope drop for us. We will have to be packed and ready to check out before heading over.
Oh, and about the peeking, I would have done the very same thing!:laughing:
We had dinner at Cinderella's Castle on Thanksgiving in 2002. Our group was 15 people and we loved it. Best part, no dishes!

LTT sounds like a good choice. It makes me think of the early Americans gathering together to celebrate the holidays. It's it's in the perfect spot to pick up a little something for your Christmas Tree.

I thought it sounded like a very cozy, traditional Christmas meal. I love LTT for lunch. So now we need to cancel our other meal there and maybe do HBD that day...

[vamassey1]

I thought it sounded like a very cozy, traditional Christmas meal. I love LTT for lunch. So now we need to cancel our other meal there and maybe do HBD that day...


So how many changes to ADRs are you going to make this trip? Are you going to keep count or maybe Shocker is?

[wigdoutdismom]

So how many changes to ADRs are you going to make this trip? Are you going to keep count or maybe Shocker is?:laughing: I was just about to post about a few changes that are being made.....

Shocker will be keeping track.....
But right now the count is 4.

[wigdoutdismom]

Cha,cha, cha, changes...... or so David Bowie says!
I'm quite happy with the changes we made to our ADRs and park plans.

Here they are:

Sunday: arrive a little after 1:00 and check in at Kidani
Dinner at 50's Prime Time then Osbourne lights Fantasmic is showing tonight so that may be a possibility. Magic Kingdom has EMH that night so we may go there. This I'll let the others decide. We may even split up. I do so want to see the castle.:cloud9:

Monday: rope drop at Epcot lunch at Le Cellier, then may go to Magic Kingdom evening CS my choice will be Casey's but the others can go their own way. We will meet back up at Main Street Station for the surprise Wishes Cruise with Shann and her teacher friend. It will be so much fun to watch Wishes and talk school.:laughing: By the way, Marc and I are the only ones that know about the cruise!

Tuesday: Tusker House bfast before the park opens. This should be a real quick ride over then we plan to do as much as possible before an afternoon break then over to W.S. for an 8:20 R&C ressie. Can you say Illuminations from the patio? Love it!

Wednesday: Rope Drop at DHS Lunch for the girls at HBD and the guys at Sci Fi there isn't a Fantasmic showing this evening so we will just decide. Maybe DTD or MK for Spectro.

Thursday: Rope drop at Epcot early seating at Candlelight Processional after a dinner at Biergarten. This will be our day to explore World Showcase
After the CP back over to MK for Spectro and Wishes.

Friday: Christmas pack up to go home, lunch at LTT then catch the ME for the airport depart at 5:30

It's a quick trip, lots to pack in, but not the last for us! It will be fun to share the fun with our newbies!

Oh and did I mention we are doing the DDP? This will be a big change for us but I think it's a good idea to put limits on ordering at meals. My girls like to order stuff then not eat it.....:headache:

One more thing, we will be christening our second purple locker. I need to start thinking of a name for it. The one we have now is Wigdoutdislocker, what do you think about Shockersdislocker for our new one?

[Charleston Princess]

You are right -- you have a lot packed into your days, but it is all fun stuff and how lovely to spend Christmas at Walt Disney World!

I like the new name for the next owner's locker! Now you can have his and her purple boxes. :lmao:

[MeMom]

I just have one worry about this meal, what if the MK is at capacity? I know that there will be no rope drop for us. We will have to be packed and ready to check out before heading over.




That is a thought. You should get there as early as you can, I guess, because they do sometimes close during that week. Hopefully it wouldn't be up until a little later in the day, though, if they were to reach capacity, and even then, there are stages of closing. Maybe just get all that you possibly can packed up and ready to go the night before, then scoot out the door early. Christmas morning at Magic Kingdom could be especially magical!

What time is your LTT lunch? I'm thinking hot chocolate and pastries in Magic Kingdom on Christmas morning to hold you over until lunch sounds wonderful.

[MEK]

Wigd:

Great changes to your ADR's. I love your plans. The Wishes cruise sounds great. I love LTT lunch. We just ate there last week for lunch and the food was really good and soooooo much. Next time I will split a sandwich. I could barely make a dent.

I bet Kidani will look beautiful at christmas. I really hope you enjoy your stay. Friday is my 7 month window for my May trip and I am so curious to see what's going to be available. I would :love::love::love:to get BC, BWV, or Wilderness Lodge (wishful thinking....I know), but I would be quite content to go back to Kidani! The other resort I would like to try is OKW. I :love:trying new places.

[DWGal210]

Your plans look really great, Anita! I am bummed that we will miss each other by one day, but you'll have to get Kidani all ready for us before we get there. :lmao:

Take care and have a great week!

[shannn]

Sunday: arrive a little after 1:00 and check in at Kidani
Dinner at 50's Prime Time then Osbourne lights Fantasmic is showing tonight so that may be a possibility. Magic Kingdom has EMH that night so we may go there. This I'll let the others decide. We may even split up. I do so want to see the castle.:cloud9:


I think we'll be at the MK EMH that night unless we're just too tired to make it.


Monday: rope drop at Epcot lunch at Le Cellier, then may go to Magic Kingdom evening CS my choice will be Casey's but the others can go their own way. We will meet back up at Main Street Station for the surprise Wishes Cruise with Shann and her teacher friend. It will be so much fun to watch Wishes and talk school.:laughing: By the way, Marc and I are the only ones that know about the cruise!


I can't *wait* for this!! I can't wait to meet y'all AND to surprise your family & my friend. It's going to be the perfect ending to our trip


One more thing, we will be christening our second purple locker. I need to start thinking of a name for it. The one we have now is Wigdoutdislocker, what do you think about Shockersdislocker for our new one?

That is a great name! Love the rhyming :)



shann

[cjackearl]

Your plans look great. Lots to do but you'll have fun fitting it in with your crew. I'm looking forward to seeing pictures of Harper taking it all in.:goodvibes

[PracPerfPatricia]

I think that your plans look fabulous...:thumbsup2

5 nights at Disney during Christmas sounds pretty sweet to me...since you're used to going longer...look at it as a speciality trip...:santa:

Ok I have a confession to make...:rolleyes1...I just realized much to my relief that Shocker is your husband Marc...

I'm usually pretty quick on the uptake but I got in on your last TR pretty far in and when I read through I must have missed that connection-now I realized it is in your first post...:dance3:...:confused3

I just thought that you had a Dis stalker or something...and was concerned for you...

It's much funnier now that I realize that you guys know each other and are in fact married...:lmao:

[vamassey1]

Your plans and meals sound fab! You should have a Magical Christmas trip. Have you started purchasing stuff yet?

[wigdoutdismom]

Your plans look great. Lots to do but you'll have fun fitting it in with your crew. I'm looking forward to seeing pictures of Harper taking it all in.:goodvibes
I think Harper will be quite interested in everything going on around her! It's going to take some splitting up to get it all done but I wouldn't even want to try to make them all happy....
I think that your plans look fabulous...:thumbsup2

5 nights at Disney during Christmas sounds pretty sweet to me...since you're used to going longer...look at it as a speciality trip...:santa:
Thank you! We feel the same way about it being a specialty trip, but aside from our trip last summer we typically only stay 5 nights so this isn't too far out of the ordinary. Now being there at Christmas is quite a new experience!

Ok I have a confession to make...:rolleyes1...I just realized much to my relief that Shocker is your husband Marc...
HE IS????


OH yea, he is.....:rotfl2:

I'm usually pretty quick on the uptake but I got in on your last TR pretty far in and when I read through I must have missed that connection-now I realized it is in your first post...:dance3:...:confused3
You have no idea how hard I am laughing at this moment!

I just thought that you had a Dis stalker or something...and was concerned for you...
Be very concerned for me anyway...

It's much funnier now that I realize that you guys know each other and are in fact married...:lmao:
WE DO? WE ARE??

Oh I guess sooo........

Oh Patricia, this has been such a long day and I want to thank you for the laugh attack you just bestowed upon me.:rotfl:

Your plans and meals sound fab! You should have a Magical Christmas trip. Have you started purchasing stuff yet?

Just as soon as we had our dates last January I started making purchases for Harper, she has quite a few Disney outfits and jackets. At this moment I think we are set for ADRs I'm quite happy with them at the moment. I hope we can figure out a time for some of the group to get to Fantasmic....

[IluvXU]

Your ADRs look fantastic. Cannot wait to see all the pictures of AKV, the holiday decor, manpris, and most especially Harper!

[wsushocker]

I like the new name for the next owner's locker! Now you can have his and her purple boxes. :lmao:

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/page_lockers_diagram_001.jpg

Does "his and her" mean her stuff does not go into his?

[wigdoutdismom]

Your ADRs look fantastic. Cannot wait to see all the pictures of AKV, the holiday decor, manpris, and most especially Harper!
Oh gosh, do you think we'll see any manpris in December?:laughing:
We are very excited for Disney "firsts" on tihs trip!
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/page_lockers_diagram_001.jpg

Does "his and her" mean her stuff does not go into his?

What's yours is mine and what's mine is mine.....remember?

[wsushocker]

What's yours is mine and what's mine is mine.....remember?

I thought that only pertained to bank accounts, credit cards, and DVC points!

[Charleston Princess]

And Owner's Lockers -- were you not listening closely to your vows? :lmao:

[Flossbolna]

Hi Anita, I just realized now that you started your PTR! I am so sorry that your FES is already in trouble! :scared1: I am feeling kind of responsible since he and I are from the same country!!! I hope things will improve and you will have a great time together! :goodvibes

I think you have a fantastic trip planned! The ADRS sound great. I think there might be a chance of more Fantasmic showings being added. It seems that the DHS hours in recent months regularly got extended and they added second shows for Fantasmic as well. So keep checking park hours, especially close to your trip and while you are there. Sometimes a second show was only announced on the day.

Also, I think LTT for Christmas Day lunch is great! Don't worry too much about getting into the MK. I have heard that the MK closes in phases and the first phase is just closing the parking lot, so less people arrive at the MK. Resort transportation is still running and whoever makes it to the entrance will get in. I think then they will only admit resort guests as the next phase and only after that they will close the gates for everyone. I think mainly MK reaches only that first phase of closing.

[wigdoutdismom]

I thought that only pertained to bank accounts, credit cards, and DVC points!
It's all covered, EVERYTHING!
And Owner's Lockers -- were you not listening closely to your vows? :lmao:
I'm guess he wasn't listening, as usual...:headache:Probably one of those "yes dear" moments.

[quote]Hi Anita, I just realized now that you started your PTR!
I know, I did start a little early and still need to get the trip report from last summer finished. I was just excited for our ADR day... I'm glad you are here!:goodvibes
I am so sorry that your FES is already in trouble! :scared1: I am feeling kind of responsible since he and I are from the same country!!!
Oh now you stop that! It just seems to be a case of a young man that has been very catered to by his mother. I don't think he is really mature enough to be spending a year abroad. I'm not sure what will happen. We are meeting with his coordinator this Friday.Besides Floss, that would be like me taking responsibility for the actions of all Americans....You know we have no control over what others do! I have an Aunt who is German, she is quite lovely!
I hope things will improve and you will have a great time together! :goodvibes
Thanks for the well wishes, time will tell, but it's not looking good at the moment. It's been a long day and he has decided that he needs to go do some shopping....:confused:

I think you have a fantastic trip planned! The ADRS sound great. I think there might be a chance of more Fantasmic showings being added. It seems that the DHS hours in recent months regularly got extended and they added second shows for Fantasmic as well. So keep checking park hours, especially close to your trip and while you are there. Sometimes a second show was only announced on the day.
I hope they do go with more showings. I can do without seeing it this trip but I sure would like the big kids to go!

Also, I think LTT for Christmas Day lunch is great! Don't worry too much about getting into the MK. I have heard that the MK closes in phases and the first phase is just closing the parking lot, so less people arrive at the MK. Resort transportation is still running and whoever makes it to the entrance will get in. I think then they will only admit resort guests as the next phase and only after that they will close the gates for everyone. I think mainly MK reaches only that first phase of closing.

Whew! Oh what great information! We have never gone when there has been any danger of park closing so I was a little worried. We should be fine!
Marc, Baylor and I are great fans of LTT for lunch and I do think it will be wonderful and very festive on Christmas!

[lmillercrew]

I love ShockerDisLocker!

[Happydog]

Okay, I have not caught up I have NOT caught up but I wanted to say HI! And I am back, and I will be on track with my reading in the next few days!!! SO HI! And I can't wait to read your posts on this thread, let alone finish your summer TR!!! Is that one done yet??!! :laughing:

[wigdoutdismom]

Okay, I have not caught up I have NOT caught up but I wanted to say HI! And I am back, and I will be on track with my reading in the next few days!!! SO HI!
Hi right back at you! Welcome back to the real world!
And I can't wait to read your posts on this thread, let alone finish your summer TR!!! Is that one done yet??!! :laughing:

I had just a few changes on this thread and just one update on the trip report. I have a couple more updates over there and final thoughts so it will probably be a couple more weeks....:rotfl2:

[Happydog]

I had just a few changes on this thread and just one update on the trip report. I have a couple more updates over there and final thoughts so it will probably be a couple more weeks....:rotfl2:

Okay well I will be reading that tomorrow, must go to bed, talk about the real world!!:eek:

[MeMom]

We are meeting with his coordinator this Friday.




Whew! Oh what great information! We have never gone when there has been any danger of park closing so I was a little worried. We should be fine!
Marc, Baylor and I are great fans of LTT for lunch and I do think it will be wonderful and very festive on Christmas!

Good luck on the meeting tomorrow. Maybe you can get some things worked out. He does seem too young to be away from home for a whole school year.

Jill and I were in Magic Kingdom one night on the Christmas trip we did, and it was so crowded that we were just shuffling our feet with the crowd as it moved along literally bumper to bumper. I think we decided to get turkey legs and chips and we ended up eating them outside the MK after having been led out the back way, behind the buildings on Main Street. That was the only time we've ever been there when we felt it was just far, far too ridiculous.

I booked Crystal Palace for us for the 28th, so I'm hoping we'll get in, too. :goodvibes

[Happydog]

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/page_lockers_diagram_001.jpg

Does "his and her" mean her stuff does not go into his?

Surely you must know by now that women get the larger closet, the larger bathroom vanity space, and of course if there are two lockers the bigger of the two by default. It is in the gender contract.

There is no "his" when it comes to storage space (except maybe a garage) basically consider all available space on loan to you. Consider yourself lucky she is calling it "his" and not "her's too"...

[Happydog]

Cha,cha, cha, changes...... or so David Bowie says!
I'm quite happy with the changes we made to our ADRs and park plans.

Here they are:

Sunday: arrive a little after 1:00 and check in at Kidani
Dinner at 50's Prime Time then Osbourne lights Fantasmic is showing tonight so that may be a possibility. Magic Kingdom has EMH that night so we may go there. This I'll let the others decide. We may even split up. I do so want to see the castle.:cloud9:

Monday: rope drop at Epcot lunch at Le Cellier, then may go to Magic Kingdom evening CS my choice will be Casey's but the others can go their own way. We will meet back up at Main Street Station for the surprise Wishes Cruise with Shann and her teacher friend. It will be so much fun to watch Wishes and talk school.:laughing: By the way, Marc and I are the only ones that know about the cruise!

Tuesday: Tusker House bfast before the park opens. This should be a real quick ride over then we plan to do as much as possible before an afternoon break then over to W.S. for an 8:20 R&C ressie. Can you say Illuminations from the patio? Love it!

Wednesday: Rope Drop at DHS Lunch for the girls at HBD and the guys at Sci Fi there isn't a Fantasmic showing this evening so we will just decide. Maybe DTD or MK for Spectro.

Thursday: Rope drop at Epcot early seating at Candlelight Processional after a dinner at Biergarten. This will be our day to explore World Showcase
After the CP back over to MK for Spectro and Wishes.

Friday: Christmas pack up to go home, lunch at LTT then catch the ME for the airport depart at 5:30

It's a quick trip, lots to pack in, but not the last for us! It will be fun to share the fun with our newbies!

Oh and did I mention we are doing the DDP? This will be a big change for us but I think it's a good idea to put limits on ordering at meals. My girls like to order stuff then not eat it.....:headache:

OH WOW!!!!! I LOVE your plans!!! :yay::yay::yay: These are GREAT!!!! So I see that I lured you over to the Osbourne side!!! :rotfl2: VERY good!!! Christmas eve at Epcot :cloud9: And LTT for lunch too??!!! That is great!!! I think we are going to MK on Monday -- I can't remember what I planned! I was too distracted with the September trip, now I gotta go back and see what we are doing! :rotfl:

I think your new ADRs and fabulous!! I am so excited for a Disney Christmas!!! :goodvibes

[wigdoutdismom]

Good luck on the meeting tomorrow. Maybe you can get some things worked out. He does seem too young to be away from home for a whole school year.
I'm ready to have this meeting over and done with. It's been most uncomfortable around here. We need to figure out if we can resolve our differences and get on with the year!

Jill and I were in Magic Kingdom one night on the Christmas trip we did, and it was so crowded that we were just shuffling our feet with the crowd as it moved along literally bumper to bumper. I think we decided to get turkey legs and chips and we ended up eating them outside the MK after having been led out the back way, behind the buildings on Main Street. That was the only time we've ever been there when we felt it was just far, far too ridiculous.
Come to think of it we've been in those shuffle, shuffle, bumper to bumper crowds but only after Wishes during our spring break trip last year. I can't imagine the park being that crowded during the day. That would certainly ruin a good time for me!:eek:

I booked Crystal Palace for us for the 28th, so I'm hoping we'll get in, too. :goodvibes
I wonder if it's more crowded during that week between Christmas and NYE or spring break? I'm guessing Christmas week.....since all spring breaks are not the same.
Are you still thinkiing about a spring break trip for 2010?

I wish you the best luck on the 28th, how could they deny you entrance if you have an ADR?

Surely you must know by now that women get the larger closet, the larger bathroom vanity space, and of course if there are two lockers the bigger of the two by default. It is in the gender contract.

There is no "his" when it comes to storage space (except maybe a garage) basically consider all available space on loan to you. Consider yourself lucky she is calling it "his" and not "her's too"...

I thought it "sounded" good to make him think he was going to have his own...:rolleyes1

[wigdoutdismom]

OH WOW!!!!! I LOVE your plans!!! :yay::yay::yay: These are GREAT!!!! So I see that I lured you over to the Osbourne side!!! :rotfl2: VERY good!!! Christmas eve at Epcot :cloud9: And LTT for lunch too??!!! That is great!!! I think we are going to MK on Monday -- I can't remember what I planned! I was too distracted with the September trip, now I gotta go back and see what we are doing! :rotfl:

I think your new ADRs and fabulous!! I am so excited for a Disney Christmas!!! :goodvibes

You totally lured me over for Osbourne lights but I might just be heading over to see that castle later that night if I can keep my eyes open!
I'm pretty happy with our plans too! I keep trying to get the girls involved but they just tell me that I'm the expert so just plan it.....
I guess I just want them to get excited too.:confused3

[MeMom]

I wonder if it's more crowded during that week between Christmas and NYE or spring break? I'm guessing Christmas week.....since all spring breaks are not the same.
Are you still thinkiing about a spring break trip for 2010?

I wish you the best luck on the 28th, how could they deny you entrance if you have an ADR?



Yeah, I'm gonna go with Christmas to New Year's being the most crowded. Still, you can get up early and do plenty before it gets too crazy, plus you can enjoy the resort decorations and the holiday atmosphere in DTD, too. It will be crowded, but it's when we can go, so we'll be happy with it.

I would love to go during Spring Break, but I doubt that will happen. Jill won't be able to get any more time off. She might could get a Friday and come for the weekend. I could take Brooklynn for a day or two before that. My friend, Kay, who went last year, said something about going again, and if she really wants to go, I will try my best to go, because she loves it and needs a break from her stressful life. I've thought about it a lot, though, and I should really just stay home and keep that money to spend in the summer, especially if we want to stay at AKL the last two nights. There's a place near here called Beech Bend Park. It's a little amusement park that I thought we might could just make a day trip of for the girls and then maybe go to the zoo one day. As long as I get to spend some time with the little girls that week and get to do something fun, and knowing that if I stay home I can better afford to pay for the AKL stay for everyone, I think I can make it through spring break without going.

I say that now, but I'll be dying to go in March, won't I?

They can deny you entrance, even with an ADR, but I doubt that's done very often. I'm just going to have faith that it will all work out.

[Happydog]

You totally lured me over for Osbourne lights but I might just be heading over to see that castle later that night if I can keep my eyes open!
I'm pretty happy with our plans too! I keep trying to get the girls involved but they just tell me that I'm the expert so just plan it.....
I guess I just want them to get excited too.:confused3

Oh they will be! They do probably just trust you with all the planning!!! ;)Once they hear about the final plans it will start to sink in... I think for those of us planning we just get more worked up, and those receiving the benefit of our planning, they don't get excitied until it is upon them!!! :)

If seeing the castle is important to you, then you need to do that!! :goodvibes

[wigdoutdismom]

Yeah, I'm gonna go with Christmas to New Year's being the most crowded. Still, you can get up early and do plenty before it gets too crazy, plus you can enjoy the resort decorations and the holiday atmosphere in DTD, too. It will be crowded, but it's when we can go, so we'll be happy with it.
I can't tell you how much I wish we were staying on longer, but our flights are purchased so Marc says that there is no changing our dates. I would love to ring in the New Year with the big DIS bunch!

I would love to go during Spring Break, but I doubt that will happen. Jill won't be able to get any more time off.
I'm not even sure we can go over spring break but if we go in the fall, it's just such a short trip and spring break we can at least stay 5 nights....
She might could get a Friday and come for the weekend. I could take Brooklynn for a day or two before that. My friend, Kay, who went last year, said something about going again, and if she really wants to go, I will try my best to go, because she loves it and needs a break from her stressful life.
It would be nice if you all could go, especially if Jill could take a day off and how sweet of you to think of Kay!:goodvibes In all honesty you have to do what you think is best for you! I've thought about it a lot, though, and I should really just stay home and keep that money to spend in the summer, especially if we want to stay at AKL the last two nights. There's a place near here called Beech Bend Park. It's a little amusement park that I thought we might could just make a day trip of for the girls and then maybe go to the zoo one day. As long as I get to spend some time with the little girls that week and get to do something fun, and knowing that if I stay home I can better afford to pay for the AKL stay for everyone, I think I can make it through spring break without going.
As long as you are with those girls of yours it will be a good break! Maybe Kay could come along with you on your day trips.

I say that now, but I'll be dying to go in March, won't I?
I'm afraid so....:confused3

They can deny you entrance, even with an ADR, but I doubt that's done very often. I'm just going to have faith that it will all work out.
In the end there is nothing more that you can do but have faith that it will all work out. I'll just bet it does!

Oh they will be! They do probably just trust you with all the planning!!! ;)Once they hear about the final plans it will start to sink in... I think for those of us planning we just get more worked up, and those receiving the benefit of our planning, they don't get excitied until it is upon them!!! :)
I hope they start showing some interest soon!

If seeing the castle is important to you, then you need to do that!! :goodvibes
I don't know what my problem is, we will be over there on Monday night before the cruise. We'll see what's going on at DHS before we think about heading over to MK for EMH.

[Flossbolna]

Oh now you stop that! It just seems to be a case of a young man that has been very catered to by his mother. I don't think he is really mature enough to be spending a year abroad. I'm not sure what will happen. We are meeting with his coordinator this Friday.Besides Floss, that would be like me taking responsibility for the actions of all Americans....You know we have no control over what others do! I have an Aunt who is German, she is quite lovely!



Ok, I was a bit foolish! :goodvibes I still hope you get things sorted out. We have hosted five different exchange students in my family and the beginning has always been a bit rough. After the first excitement most start to realize how hard it is to be away from home in a strange country. Doing totally stupid things sometimes is just a way of dealing with culture shock - even if it is not a very smart way to deal with it! And it is amazing how much every one of our exchange students changed during the year and became so much more mature. :thumbsup2

[wigdoutdismom]

Ok, I was a bit foolish! :goodvibes I still hope you get things sorted out. We have hosted five different exchange students in my family and the beginning has always been a bit rough. After the first excitement most start to realize how hard it is to be away from home in a strange country. Doing totally stupid things sometimes is just a way of dealing with culture shock - even if it is not a very smart way to deal with it! And it is amazing how much every one of our exchange students changed during the year and became so much more mature. :thumbsup2

We've hosted girls before and they were really nice to have around. I just have to tell you, this kid is driving me crazy! :faint:

[MEK]

Oh Wigd.....I feel bad with you re: the FES. That is certainly more than you bargained for. My eldest teen is very difficult and oppositional, so I know what you are going through and its NOT YOUR KID! I just ordered the Total Transformation. I watched the infomercial about 6 months ago and finally decided to give it a try. I was skeptical and it costs about $300 with S & H, but son's grades have already been slipping just in the first 5- 6 weeks of school. I have been listening to the CDs for the last week and implementing the tools and I have already seen a change in his behavior. In fact, he just got a 94 on a precalc quiz. I am learning that you can't be friends with certain kids. You have to be very black and white, set limits, no reasoning, and carry through when you say there is going to be a certain consequence for a bad behavior. Already I feel like I am getting my moneys worth and I am not even half way through the series.

Anyway ....on a lighter note, I started my TR today (no pics yet) and the best news is......I just made a reservation for the Wilderness Lodge Villas for May 2 - 7th!. :banana: I am so excited. I fell in love with the place when we ate at Artist's Point and I decided I was going to try there before even the BCV. When MS said there was a 2BR avail for my dates I almost fell off my chair and decided not to search any further. I'm pretty excited!!!!!!!

[wsushocker]

And Owner's Lockers -- were you not listening closely to your vows? :lmao:

However, I do recall her vowing to "love, honor, and OBEY"!

[Flossbolna]

We've hosted girls before and they were really nice to have around. I just have to tell you, this kid is driving me crazy! :faint:

Sorry for that, but I am glad that you at least know that it can be fun to host a FES! I am volunteering for "my" exchange organization here in Germany as what you seem to call coordinator, we here in Germany call it "counsellor". It's always very sad to see if it does not work out.

[wigdoutdismom]

Oh Wigd.....I feel bad with you re: the FES. That is certainly more than you bargained for. My eldest teen is very difficult and oppositional, so I know what you are going through and its NOT YOUR KID! I just ordered the Total Transformation. I watched the infomercial about 6 months ago and finally decided to give it a try. I was skeptical and it costs about $300 with S & H, but son's grades have already been slipping just in the first 5- 6 weeks of school. I have been listening to the CDs for the last week and implementing the tools and I have already seen a change in his behavior. In fact, he just got a 94 on a precalc quiz. I am learning that you can't be friends with certain kids. You have to be very black and white, set limits, no reasoning, and carry through when you say there is going to be a certain consequence for a bad behavior. Already I feel like I am getting my moneys worth and I am not even half way through the series.

First of all I want to say congratulations on finding some success with your oldest! It's not easy to turn things around at that age, usually it takes some growing up to do that!

The FES situation has been tense, Baylor has started staying at school with me until I get my work done and sometimes it takes me an hour or two. He just doesn't want to go home and be alone with FES. Most definantly not a good thing.


Anyway ....on a lighter note, I started my TR today (no pics yet) and the best news is......I just made a reservation for the Wilderness Lodge Villas for May 2 - 7th!. :banana: I am so excited. I fell in love with the place when we ate at Artist's Point and I decided I was going to try there before even the BCV. When MS said there was a 2BR avail for my dates I almost fell off my chair and decided not to search any further. I'm pretty excited!!!!!!!
As you know I practically fell out of my seat flying over! Congrats on VWL! I can't wait to see pictures. The speech path from my old school is a member there and will have thier first stay at the same time as our Christms trip.


However, I do recall her vowing to "love, honor, and OBEY"!
Talk about selective memory.... Oh wait a minute, there was no obey in there!
Sorry for that, but I am glad that you at least know that it can be fun to host a FES! I am volunteering for "my" exchange organization here in Germany as what you seem to call coordinator, we here in Germany call it "counsellor". It's always very sad to see if it does not work out.
It makes you feel like a complete failure, believe me, I know. I also know that there are times that the placement just doesn't work out.

[Wrexie]

Looks like you've got a great trip in the works! Planning with so many people involved sounds tough. I'll be there a bit after you in early January, so be sure not to break anything! ;)

I planned a family vacation in a couple of cottages in a West Virginia State Park last year, and that was tricky enough!

Subscribing to read more!

[Happydog]

WigD -- what a bummer that your FES isn't working out??!! :confused3 I hope whatever happens works out. Does Baylor just not like him or is he not nice to Baylor? How awful.. sounds very imature, and ungrateful for the opportunity... Are there other FES in the area? Was he the only placement around you? Hope it all works through.

I look foward to hearing more about your Christmas plans... I really want to hear about all that shopping you have done :) for your grandaughter!!! :goodvibes

[PracPerfPatricia]

Hey Anita,

I am fully caffeinated and reading the last two pages of your PTR...um after the embarrassment of not realizing that Shocker was your husband at first...:blush:...

I'm sorry to hear about your FES...hoping today he's been good and you're calling him Max...

That's a shame...It's nice of you to host-(I'm thinking of doing it myself next year-I think it would be a great experience for the kids-especially Emily who'll be 15 next week-16 next year) I think that it's a great opportunity for FES and it would be great for Baylor to learn about the cultural differences too (especially from another guy) as long as FES isn't being a jerk...maybe you can turn him in for another FES...:lmao:one who is nicer...or maybe once he adjusts he will be nice...it could just be male posturing stuff...:confused3

Waiting to see how things work out...-this is almost better than watching tv...popcorn::-it's like a reality tv program...

[eandesmom]

Oh Wigd.....I feel bad with you re: the FES. That is certainly more than you bargained for. My eldest teen is very difficult and oppositional, so I know what you are going through and its NOT YOUR KID! I just ordered the Total Transformation. I watched the infomercial about 6 months ago and finally decided to give it a try. I was skeptical and it costs about $300 with S & H, but son's grades have already been slipping just in the first 5- 6 weeks of school. I have been listening to the CDs for the last week and implementing the tools and I have already seen a change in his behavior. In fact, he just got a 94 on a precalc quiz. I am learning that you can't be friends with certain kids. You have to be very black and white, set limits, no reasoning, and carry through when you say there is going to be a certain consequence for a bad behavior. Already I feel like I am getting my moneys worth and I am not even half way through the series.

Anyway ....on a lighter note, I started my TR today (no pics yet) and the best news is......I just made a reservation for the Wilderness Lodge Villas for May 2 - 7th!. :banana: I am so excited. I fell in love with the place when we ate at Artist's Point and I decided I was going to try there before even the BCV. When MS said there was a 2BR avail for my dates I almost fell off my chair and decided not to search any further. I'm pretty excited!!!!!!!

Ok, not to hijack but good to know on the total transformation if we ever need it and congrats Mary Ellen on WLV! I hope to stay there someday.

It makes you feel like a complete failure, believe me, I know. I also know that there are times that the placement just doesn't work out.

awww....don't feel that way! You are clearly trying really really hard. I'm sorry that it's gotten to the point that Baylor doesn't want to be alone with him, that's awful. On the flip side good for Baylor for acknowledging that and not thinking FES is cool! Silver lining.

Your plans look great! Osbourne lights!

[wigdoutdismom]

Looks like you've got a great trip in the works! Planning with so many people involved sounds tough. I'll be there a bit after you in early January, so be sure not to break anything! ;)
I'm really hoping they all have a great time!
I planned a family vacation in a couple of cottages in a West Virginia State Park last year, and that was tricky enough!
So did you all have lots of fun?

Subscribing to read more!

WigD -- what a bummer that your FES isn't working out??!! :confused3 I hope whatever happens works out. Does Baylor just not like him or is he not nice to Baylor? How awful.. sounds very imature, and ungrateful for the opportunity... Are there other FES in the area? Was he the only placement around you? Hope it all works through.
It's been such a tough time....
He has been teasing Baylor, a lot. So much in fact that he has humiliated Baylor in front of our neighbor boys that Baylor has been friends with for year...
We've tried to talk to him and he just didn't see what the problem was.

I look foward to hearing more about your Christmas plans... I really want to hear about all that shopping you have done :) for your grandaughter!!! :goodvibes
I need to pull out some bags and take pictures, then there will be a few items in the souvie post in that trip report that needs to be finished!:laughing::laughing:

Hey Anita,
Hey Patricia!

I am fully caffeinated and reading the last two pages of your PTR...um after the embarrassment of not realizing that Shocker was your husband at first...:blush:...

Yep that was funny but I totally understand.:goodvibes

I'm sorry to hear about your FES...hoping today he's been good and you're calling him Max...
We are all walking on eggshells around here at the moment.

That's a shame...It's nice of you to host-(I'm thinking of doing it myself next year-I think it would be a great experience for the kids-especially Emily who'll be 15 next week-16 next year) I think that it's a great opportunity for FES and it would be great for Baylor to learn about the cultural differences too (especially from another guy) as long as FES isn't being a jerk...maybe you can turn him in for another FES...:lmao:one who is nicer...or maybe once he adjusts he will be nice...it could just be male posturing stuff...:confused3
It's really sad because Baylor was the main reason we decided to host. Sure we have more than enough space for an extra person or two but honestly, Baylor is lonely. His older sisters are no longer in the house. He's basically an only child. He misses the interaction with people that aren't old like us. I'll admit that Baylor can be sensitive but the problems went well beyond him just being sensitive. I can't have my son afraid to come home from school....

Waiting to see how things work out...-this is almost better than watching tv...popcorn::-it's like a reality tv program...
I think we could be featured on some reality TV program.... Drama with FES (Max), caring for a parent with dementia/Alzheimer , a step parent that had a massive stroke that is in a care home and just life. Wow!

Ok, not to hijack but good to know on the total transformation if we ever need it and congrats Mary Ellen on WLV! I hope to stay there someday.
I agree congrats Mary Ellen!



awww....don't feel that way! You are clearly trying really really hard. I'm sorry that it's gotten to the point that Baylor doesn't want to be alone with him, that's awful. On the flip side good for Baylor for acknowledging that and not thinking FES is cool! Silver lining.
It has been a very rough week here!

Your plans look great! Osbourne lights!
You can't believe how excited we are to see Disney dressed up for Christmas and especially Osbourne Lights!

[PracPerfPatricia]

The FES situation has been tense, Baylor has started staying at school with me until I get my work done and sometimes it takes me an hour or two. He just doesn't want to go home and be alone with FES. Most definantly not a good thing.

I was thinking about this...I read it and then fully processed it...is this kid a little disturbed? ( FES.)..:confused3...the fact that Baylor is afraid to be at home with him by himself...:sad2: I'm pretty kind hearted and willing to give anyone a second chance but if he is being mean/intimidating towards your son-who is not only his host but considerably younger...you may have to "exchange" him...:confused3


God...I hate mean people...:headache:

[shannn]

The FES situation has been tense, Baylor has started staying at school with me until I get my work done and sometimes it takes me an hour or two. He just doesn't want to go home and be alone with FES. Most definantly not a good thing.

I was thinking about this...I read it and then fully processed it...is this kid a little disturbed? ( FES.)..:confused3...the fact that Baylor is afraid to be at home with him by himself...:sad2: I'm pretty kind hearted and willing to give anyone a second chance but if he is being mean/intimidating towards your son-who is not only his host but considerably younger...you may have to "exchange" him...:confused3
God...I hate mean people...:headache:


I totally agree with this! If he's causing Baylor to dread coming home, then he'll have to go! Kids have enough to deal with without having to put up with that! :headache:

[wigdoutdismom]

The FES situation has been tense, Baylor has started staying at school with me until I get my work done and sometimes it takes me an hour or two. He just doesn't want to go home and be alone with FES. Most definantly not a good thing.

I was thinking about this...I read it and then fully processed it...is this kid a little disturbed? ( FES.)..:confused3...the fact that Baylor is afraid to be at home with him by himself...:sad2: I'm pretty kind hearted and willing to give anyone a second chance but if he is being mean/intimidating towards your son-who is not only his host but considerably younger...you may have to "exchange" him...:confused3
[I]Honestly I think it's a maturity thing. He's not a bad kid, really he isn't but is very much into himself. Baylor asked Marc if Max would beat him up. I personally don't think that would happen. Baylor is just so stressed and sad about the whole ordeal. We tried to tell Max that there is a 6 year difference between and he needed to stop the taunting, but he just doesn't. Max thinks he is playing. Baylor just isn't having much fun in this game.


God...I hate mean people...:headache: I'm not sure that I think he is mean, just doesn't know how to treat a younger sibling, no compassion at all.

I totally agree with this! If he's causing Baylor to dread coming home, then he'll have to go! Kids have enough to deal with without having to put up with that! :headache:
Yes, I think he will be with us a few more days then he will be moved. I feel bad about the whole situation. I hope the next home works out, if not he goes back to Germany. I really wish him the best and I hope he has a successful year.

[Flossbolna]

Anita, I am sorry that things did not work out with your FES. But if he is not willing to understand that his behaviour towards his younger host brother is causing harm, I think that is a very bad sign. In order to "survive" as an exchange student in a foreign country you need to be able to adapt your behaviour to your new environment. And even if he can't figure it out himself, refusing to accept what he is being told, really is absolutely inappropriate for an exchange student! It really sounds like there isn't anything you could have done better. :hug:

I can understand that you feel like a failure, even if you aren't. We had one exchange student from Sweden who decided that our family was unbearable and told my mother on the morning of my mother's 50's birthday that she had decided to leave us. :confused3 It did not improve my mother's mood on her birthday... This was the last year my sister was still at home before going of to University and my parents originally had decided that this would be our last year as host family. But they did not want to end it that way and we had another exchange student from Sweden who was just great! :goodvibes

[Charleston Princess]

Good morning, Anita! I scrolled through pretty quickly this morning, but see that you are sending FES on his way -- it's a shame that didn't work out, but you are going to be so relieved when it is over and done with! :hug:

[MeMom]

I'm not sure that I think he is mean, just doesn't know how to treat a younger sibling, no compassion at all.


Yes, I think he will be with us a few more days then he will be moved. I feel bad about the whole situation. I hope the next home works out, if not he goes back to Germany. I really wish him the best and I hope he has a successful year.

I think you're going to breathe a huge sigh of relief and be very glad to get your home back to normal when this is all over. Home is your sanctuary, and when you can't leave the crazy outside world and come home to peace and comfort, then that is no good.

Maybe he'll do well in the next placement, and if not, then he needs to go on back to his home. Maybe that's what he's trying to do, anyway. You never know how kids are going to play out getting what they really want. What is he saying about the move?

I'm sorry Baylor had to deal with this, but at the same time, as in anything, there are lessons to be learned. Baylor will probably be more aware of the feelings of others now and have more compassion for both friends and strangers who are going through being taunted.

I will just wish Max the best for his future and hope that he will look back on this event in his life and learn from it, too.

And I'll be very glad for you to get back your peaceful home and family. :hug:

[jenjolt]

Uggh what a dilemna Anita!! I have to agree with everyone else and think its for the best that FES moves on, especially with it affecting Baylor so!! You have to do what you have to do to protect the security of your family!!!! I'm sorry you have so much going on right now!!!! Sending you lots and lots of pixie dust!!

[wsushocker]

I think you're going to breathe a huge sigh of relief and be very glad to get your home back to normal when this is all over.


"back to normal"?

Now that is really funny.....

[vamassey1]

I just wanted to comment on the Baylor being lonely thing.

I have big age gaps between my kids too. There is a 5 year gap between 1 and 2 and a 9 year gap between 2 and 3. Michelle (19) moved out August 1st leaving just Danielle (10) at home. At first she couldn't wait to be the only kid at home. When I told her Michelle was moving back home at the end of September she was on cloud nine. She was lonely. Of course child number 1 who is 24 may be moving back in December to do his student teaching here. She's even more excited about that.

[lmillercrew]

Well Anita, I'm so happy that your family will return to its "normal" self.Too bad that Baylor had to go through all of that. At least now he can go home after school and not have to worry about getting beaten up.

[wigdoutdismom]

Anita, I am sorry that things did not work out with your FES. But if he is not willing to understand that his behaviour towards his younger host brother is causing harm, I think that is a very bad sign. In order to "survive" as an exchange student in a foreign country you need to be able to adapt your behaviour to your new environment. And even if he can't figure it out himself, refusing to accept what he is being told, really is absolutely inappropriate for an exchange student! It really sounds like there isn't anything you could have done better. :hug:

I can understand that you feel like a failure, even if you aren't. We had one exchange student from Sweden who decided that our family was unbearable and told my mother on the morning of my mother's 50's birthday that she had decided to leave us. :confused3 It did not improve my mother's mood on her birthday... This was the last year my sister was still at home before going of to University and my parents originally had decided that this would be our last year as host family. But they did not want to end it that way and we had another exchange student from Sweden who was just great! :goodvibes

Good morning, Anita! I scrolled through pretty quickly this morning, but see that you are sending FES on his way -- it's a shame that didn't work out, but you are going to be so relieved when it is over and done with! :hug:

I think you're going to breathe a huge sigh of relief and be very glad to get your home back to normal when this is all over. Home is your sanctuary, and when you can't leave the crazy outside world and come home to peace and comfort, then that is no good.

Maybe he'll do well in the next placement, and if not, then he needs to go on back to his home. Maybe that's what he's trying to do, anyway. You never know how kids are going to play out getting what they really want. What is he saying about the move?

I'm sorry Baylor had to deal with this, but at the same time, as in anything, there are lessons to be learned. Baylor will probably be more aware of the feelings of others now and have more compassion for both friends and strangers who are going through being taunted.

I will just wish Max the best for his future and hope that he will look back on this event in his life and learn from it, too.

And I'll be very glad for you to get back your peaceful home and family. :hug:

Uggh what a dilemna Anita!! I have to agree with everyone else and think its for the best that FES moves on, especially with it affecting Baylor so!! You have to do what you have to do to protect the security of your family!!!! I'm sorry you have so much going on right now!!!! Sending you lots and lots of pixie dust!!

"back to normal"?

Now that is really funny.....

I just wanted to comment on the Baylor being lonely thing.

I have big age gaps between my kids too. There is a 5 year gap between 1 and 2 and a 9 year gap between 2 and 3. Michelle (19) moved out August 1st leaving just Danielle (10) at home. At first she couldn't wait to be the only kid at home. When I told her Michelle was moving back home at the end of September she was on cloud nine. She was lonely. Of course child number 1 who is 24 may be moving back in December to do his student teaching here. She's even more excited about that.

Well Anita, I'm so happy that your family will return to its "normal" self.Too bad that Baylor had to go through all of that. At least now he can go home after school and not have to worry about getting beaten up.

Thanks everyone for all of the kind and supportive words. We are going through a tough time. It's quite uncomfortable for ALL of us waiting for the new placement to occur. Max has been promised the chance at two families, if the next doesn't work out then he will have to return to Germany. It doesn't look like he will be able to remain in our community so that means a change in schools. This may be a good thing for him since he has made some unwise choices in friends. I know it will be hard for him to start over though.
I know we have learned from this experience and I hope he has too.

Soon we will return to our normal, dysfunctional weirdness....

[wsushocker]

Soon we will return to our normal, dysfunctional weirdness....
more like disfunctional

[kschafer]

Geez Anita, dealing with all this FES crap must be incredibly stressful. I'm sure you will be very releaved it will be over soon. Maybe moving to a new school will be a good thing for him

Soon we will return to our normal, dysfunctional weirdness....

:thumbsup2 YAY!

(oh, and I wanted to let you know that I am available to be the 7th elf at christmas if necessary ;) )

[Happydog]

more like disfunctional


VERY VERY CLEVER :rolleyes: That HAD to make WigD smile!!!

[DreaGirl]

Okay, page 7 and I just realized that you started a new PTR. I really need to look at signatures. :laughing:

I'm sorry FES didn't work out. It seems like the best for everything rather than suffer through it for an entire year.

As for the locker, what about "ManpriDisLocker"? ;)

Your plans look great. Does Harper sleep in the stroller? We took our DD when she was 17 months and we learned after the 2nd day that it was easier to have her nap in the stroller because she would fall asleep on the way back to the resort and then there was no nap. Just an idea. :goodvibes:

[shannn]

Thanks everyone for all of the kind and supportive words. We are going through a tough time. It's quite uncomfortable for ALL of us waiting for the new placement to occur. Max has been promised the chance at two families, if the next doesn't work out then he will have to return to Germany. It doesn't look like he will be able to remain in our community so that means a change in schools. This may be a good thing for him since he has made some unwise choices in friends. I know it will be hard for him to start over though.
I know we have learned from this experience and I hope he has too.

Soon we will return to our normal, dysfunctional weirdness....

How awkward to be in this holding pattern Anita. I hope the transition goes as smoothly as possible. You all need to move on with a clean start. I actually think it's good for him to start at a new school. Sounds like he needs a fresh start as well. Bravo to y'all for making the best possible decision for all of you.

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, Anita! What an awkward situation! I hope things get resolved quickly! Maybe you should buy a new Vera when this is all over and done with to cheer you up. ;)

[DreaGirl]

Oh, Anita! What an awkward situation! I hope things get resolved quickly! Maybe you should buy a new Vera when this is all over and done with to cheer you up. ;)

Yes, I agree. You might even need a Girl's Trip to WDW. ;)

[wigdoutdismom]

more like disfunctional

The best kind of functional is DIS functional!
Geez Anita, dealing with all this FES crap must be incredibly stressful. I'm sure you will be very releaved it will be over soon. Maybe moving to a new school will be a good thing for him



:thumbsup2 YAY!

(oh, and I wanted to let you know that I am available to be the 7th elf at christmas if necessary ;) )
It's really hard on all of us right now, I hope they find a new placement for him, like by Wednesday before the coordinator leaves town again....

We thought about letting DD19 ask a friend but decided that she will be over the top snotty if we do that... she so likes to perform for her friends! We will have enough drama, I promise!
VERY VERY CLEVER :rolleyes: That HAD to make WigD smile!!!
I great big DIS smile!
Okay, page 7 and I just realized that you started a new PTR. I really need to look at signatures. :laughing:

I'm sorry FES didn't work out. It seems like the best for everything rather than suffer through it for an entire year.

As for the locker, what about "ManpriDisLocker"? ;)

Your plans look great. Does Harper sleep in the stroller? We took our DD when she was 17 months and we learned after the 2nd day that it was easier to have her nap in the stroller because she would fall asleep on the way back to the resort and then there was no nap. Just an idea. :goodvibes:
You know, I ordered the locker and I didn't see a place to name it! I hope it's not going to be nonamedislocker.....
I'm not sure if Harper will sleep in the stroller or not. We decided that we will take her full size Peg Perego with us, I hope they don't charge extra to stow it on the plane....
How awkward to be in this holding pattern Anita. I hope the transition goes as smoothly as possible. You all need to move on with a clean start. I actually think it's good for him to start at a new school. Sounds like he needs a fresh start as well. Bravo to y'all for making the best possible decision for all of you.
It's like the silent house, with the exception of Baylor trying to decide on a Halloween costume.....
Oh, Anita! What an awkward situation! I hope things get resolved quickly! Maybe you should buy a new Vera when this is all over and done with to cheer you up. ;)

Hey Jackie that's the best suggestion I've heard all day, I might have to look for a Mesa Red hipster..... I've taken a fancy to that print!

[wigdoutdismom]

Yes, I agree. You might even need a Girl's Trip to WDW. ;)

Hey Shocker, can I go? Can I, can I?

[Charleston Princess]

Hey Jackie that's the best suggestion I've heard all day, I might have to look for a Mesa Red hipster..... I've taken a fancy to that print!

Glad I could help! Just don't tell Shocker it was my idea! :laughing:

I am partial to the new Paprika print -- I think I need that in the backpack style -- I need a lot of room in a park bag, I have decided.

[wigdoutdismom]

Glad I could help! Just don't tell Shocker it was my idea! :laughing:

I am partial to the new Paprika print -- I think I need that in the backpack style -- I need a lot of room in a park bag, I have decided.

Now that sounds interesting! I'm going to take a peek at that print! I love paprika....:rolleyes1

[DreaGirl]

You know, I ordered the locker and I didn't see a place to name it! I hope it's not going to be nonamedislocker.....
I'm not sure if Harper will sleep in the stroller or not. We decided that we will take her full size Peg Perego with us, I hope they don't charge extra to stow it on the plane....

They won't charge you extra for the stroller as long as you gate check it. We brought our huge stroller (when she was 17 months) and it worked out great.

[wigdoutdismom]

They won't charge you extra for the stroller as long as you gate check it. We brought our huge stroller (when she was 17 months) and it worked out great.

I think that will be the official plan, especially if they won't charge us, Atlanta is a big airport to carry her through...

[MEK]

Oh Anita...

I am all caught up on the FES situation and I feel so bad for you. But this kid definately has "oppositional defiance" syndrome. I learned that from the total transformation. It occurs in kids who never learned good problem solving skills when they are younger. Their lack of problem solving skills creates anxiety and self-esteem issues. So in order to bloster their self-esteem, they become defiant to everyone. They WANT you to be afraid of them. They WANT you to walk on egg-shells. They size people up and they learn who they can taunt and who they can and can't control. They are very manipulative. They get false self esteem by doing these things. You can never be their friend. You have to act more like a warden and set up strict rules with strict consequences if they break the rules.

From what you described, this kid will fail in his next host home as well. There is nothing you could have done differently and its not your responsibility to try to fix this. The kid has to fix it and its his parent's responsibility to learn the skills to help this kid with his crazy behavior.

I, personally, think he should just be shipped back to Germany. If Baylor is afraid to be around him, then that is just wrong. The FES's consequence should be a one way ticket back to Germany. End of discussion!

Phew.....!

Anyway, soap box over. But I really have learned alot from this Total Transformation program!

[DWGal210]

Oh Anita, I am so sorry you are having all these problems. I think removing him from your home is the best choice. It should be a fun and wonderful experience to share your home with an exchange student, and if it doesn't work out, that's a pain. This kid sounds like a real pill.

Here's to having your home back to normal! I'll be thinking about you! :lovestruc

- Katie

[wigdoutdismom]

[quote]But this kid definately has "oppositional defiance" syndrome.
I think you may be onto something here. Going back over the file, I think if we would have "read between the lines" we may avoided the situation.

[quote]This kid sounds like a real pill.

Here's to having your home back to normal! I'll be thinking about you!
Thanks Katie, it certainly isn't what we thought we signed up for...

[Charleston Princess]

Wigd, I just started my TR -- there is a space on the first page just for you! :laughing:

Shaken, Not Stirred, With a Twist of Pixie Dust! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2302811)

[wigdoutdismom]

Wigd, I just started my TR -- there is a space on the first page just for you! :laughing:

Shaken, Not Stirred, With a Twist of Pixie Dust! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2302811)

I was just about to pm you to say that I was home now and you could begin!:laughing:
I've already been over and did make page 1!

[Charleston Princess]

I was just about to pm you to say that I was home now and you could begin!:laughing:
I've already been over and did make page 1!

Hurray! I am so glad you made it onto page one! :laughing:

[Happydog]

Oh dear, Vera Bradley, and a "recovery trip" to Disney.... where do I get me a FES...???? NO no no, just making light of a not so fun situation, but gee WigD I am sorry that things didn't work out -- I don't understand how a student could be so unappreciative of the circumstances and the gift of staying abroad. Well maybe he'll learn too...

I am sure it will all settle itself out. :flower3:

[wigdoutdismom]

Hurray! I am so glad you made it onto page one! :laughing:
I guess I didn't tell Shocker quick enough, he is on page 2....:rolleyes1
Oh dear, Vera Bradley, and a "recovery trip" to Disney.... where do I get me a FES...???? NO no no, just making light of a not so fun situation, but gee WigD I am sorry that things didn't work out -- I don't understand how a student could be so unappreciative of the circumstances and the gift of staying abroad. Well maybe he'll learn too...

I am sure it will all settle itself out. :flower3:

I'm thinking that by the end of the week this will be behind us..... I hope so anyway, this holding pattern is really uncomfortable!:headache:

[Charleston Princess]

I guess I didn't tell Shocker quick enough, he is on page 2....:rolleyes1

But he is the lead post on page 2 -- that has to count for something. :goodvibes

[wigdoutdismom]

But he is the lead post on page 2 -- that has to count for something. :goodvibes

Oh he didn't tell me he was king of the page!

[Happydog]

Oh he didn't tell me he was king of the page!

Its his attempt at a "poker face" ;)

[wigdoutdismom]

Its his attempt at a "poker face" ;)

and I thought he was just pouting...:laughing:

[wsushocker]

Okay, page 7 and I just realized that you started a new PTR. I really need to look at signatures. :laughing:

I'm sorry FES didn't work out. It seems like the best for everything rather than suffer through it for an entire year.

As for the locker, what about "ManpriDisLocker"? ;)

Your plans look great. Does Harper sleep in the stroller? We took our DD when she was 17 months and we learned after the 2nd day that it was easier to have her nap in the stroller because she would fall asleep on the way back to the resort and then there was no nap. Just an idea. :goodvibes:

I think I need a stroller to sleep in.....

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/photo-man-stroller.jpg

[wsushocker]

Oh, Anita! What an awkward situation! I hope things get resolved quickly! Maybe you should buy a new Vera when this is all over and done with to cheer you up. ;)

WHAT???? I cannot possibly see the connection here!?!?!

[wsushocker]

Yes, I agree. You might even need a Girl's Trip to WDW. ;)

Why not just leave now and I can suffer the last few Max days?????

[wigdoutdismom]

I think I need a stroller to sleep in.....

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/photo-man-stroller.jpg
:scared1: :scared1: :scared1:
WHAT???? I cannot possibly see the connection here!?!?!

:rolleyes1

[DreaGirl]

Why not just leave now and I can suffer the last few Max days?????

We'll be there in 11 days, want to join us? :laughing:

[DreaGirl]

I think I need a stroller to sleep in.....

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/photo-man-stroller.jpg

:rotfl:

[wigdoutdismom]

Why not just leave now and I can suffer the last few Max days?????
Hmmmmm, that's a wonderful idea! Thanks honey! :love:
We'll be there in 11 days, want to join us? :laughing:

Don't I wish!;)

[jillyb]

Its his attempt at a "poker face" ;)

Thanks for the song headache! :laughing:

[eandesmom]

did I read right? Last few days of Max?

that sounds like he's not moving today like you hoped...

:(

[MEK]

Thanks for the song headache! :laughing:

Pa...Pa...Pa....Pocker Face....my, my Pocker Face. There, does that help?

Can't read mine, can't read mine, no you can't reada my-a pocker face!

Any better? :laughing:

Sorry! Couldn't resist, because I was actually thinking the same thing!

[jillyb]

Pa...Pa...Pa....Pocker Face....my, my Pocker Face. There, does that help?

Can't read mine, can't read mine, no you can't reada my-a pocker face!

Any better? :laughing:

Sorry! Couldn't resist, because I was actually thinking the same thing!

:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

[Happydog]

Thanks for the song headache! :laughing:

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOops. ;)

[winkers]

How did I miss this?

Looks like I've got some catching up to do

[fairyfan]

So sorry about all of your stress Anita. Things will get better! I'm glad I found your latest ptr. Christmas will be here before you know it and so will your trip. It will be wonderful!

I say you go for the Vera - Shocker already knows I'm a troublemaker:rolleyes1 when it comes to bags and I'd hate to let him believe otherwise. Mesa Red and Christmas - perfect!

On another note, guess what I got via email? My very first, very special Pin Code:yay::yay::yay:. Need to do some planning for a trip in May!

Hope to see you soon in the chat!

[wigdoutdismom]

Thanks for the song headache! :laughing:
I have no clue about this song!:rotfl:
did I read right? Last few days of Max?

that sounds like he's not moving today like you hoped...

:(
Nope, not until Friday.....
At the moment he is on the phone, just at the bottom of the stairs laughing and having a very loud conversation in GERMAN. He was just told at the meeting this past Friday no German, supposed to speak English.....
Hmmmmm, not listening again....:headache:

QUOTE=MEK;33865238]Pa...Pa...Pa....Pocker Face....my, my Pocker Face. There, does that help?

Can't read mine, can't read mine, no you can't reada my-a pocker face!

Any better? :laughing:

Sorry! Couldn't resist, because I was actually thinking the same thing![/quote]
Is this a song? I don't think I've heard it!:confused3
:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOops. ;)
You all have me stumped!:laughing:
How did I miss this?

Looks like I've got some catching up to do
I've been wondering where you were! How is MIL?
So sorry about all of your stress Anita. Things will get better! I'm glad I found your latest ptr. Christmas will be here before you know it and so will your trip. It will be wonderful!

I say you go for the Vera - Shocker already knows I'm a troublemaker:rolleyes1 when it comes to bags and I'd hate to let him believe otherwise. Mesa Red and Christmas - perfect!

On another note, guess what I got via email? My very first, very special Pin Code:yay::yay::yay:. Need to do some planning for a trip in May!

Hope to see you soon in the chat!
The stress will end in a couple of days thank goodness. Well the FES stress anyway.
Thanks for the little push towards a new Vera, you are the best!
Awesome news on the pin code, hope it was a good one!

[fairyfan]

Hey,

if you and Shocker need a laugh, you have to see EM and FL's banter on EM's TR. It's so funny.

[wigdoutdismom]

Hey,

if you and Shocker need a laugh, you have to see EM and FL's banter on EM's TR. It's so funny.
:lmao: I've sworn off the teen boards!:lmao:

[jenjolt]

I have to agree with the other ladies...Anita you need a new Vera...if Marc can get the stroller LOL you should buy yourself a gorgeous Vera!! There isn't much a great park bag can't fix LOL!!!!!

[eandesmom]

Oh MAN! Now that song is stuck in MY head!

:(

[wigdoutdismom]

I have to agree with the other ladies...Anita you need a new Vera...if Marc can get the stroller LOL you should buy yourself a gorgeous Vera!! There isn't much a great park bag can't fix LOL!!!!!
If Marc were in that stroller, I would be the one needing depends......:lmao:
Oh MAN! Now that song is stuck in MY head!

:(
I'm going to have to find this song....

[winkers]

I'm going to have to find this song....

you'll regret it.....

I heard her disco stick song today and can't get it out of my head...:headache:

[wigdoutdismom]

you'll regret it.....

I heard her disco stick song today and can't get it out of my head...:headache:
:rotfl2: I had no clue it was Lady Gaga!:lmao::cutie:

[jillyb]

:rotfl2: I had no clue it was Lady Gaga!:lmao::cutie:

:laughing: :laughing:

[brookelizabeth]

I'm late to the party.

Is this late still within the "fashionably late" time frame? ;)

Your plans are really looking great-what a very, very fun trip you are going to have with everyone! That sounds like a magical way to spend Christmas. And I can't wait to read all about Harper's adventures in Disney World! :yay: I bet those pics of her watching Osborne Lights are going to be so sweet. :lovestruc

I'm sorry of all you have been dealing with the FES. I was good friends with two of our FES' when I was a Senior in high school. One was a bit on the "wild" side. I remember going with him to his host family's home, and he was like a different person. INCREDIBLY respectful and kind to the children and the parents. Sounds like your FES just doesn't get it--or like MeMom said, wants to be sent back??? I hope it works out for him with the next family. I'm glad to hear that stress will be ending in your life soon, it's really all just too bad.... :hug:

[MeMom]

Thinking of you today as Max departs. I know this has been emotionally hard on all of you. I hope he finds a good fit or finds whatever he is needing, and I hope that he'll learn something valuable from this experience that can make him a better person in the future.

Enjoy your peaceful, happy home tonight!

[shannn]

I agree with MeMom.

I hope this turns out to be a positive life experience for Max. Sometimes youthful mistakes end up teaching us valuable lessons. (I know I have some stories I could tell!)

Know that you did everything you possibly could to make this situation work!! :hug:

[DWGal210]

I am thinking about you today, Anita! :hug: Have a wonderful weekend!

[MEK]

:rotfl2: I had no clue it was Lady Gaga!:lmao::cutie:

Sorry Wigd..... I stumbled upon one of those AOL sessions with her singing this song. She was playing the keyboard with her right foot and probably stoned out of her mind. Ever since then the song just stuck! She acts like a freak, but I think she is actually pretty talented (got accepted into or applied to Juliard at a very young age) and she is certainly rollin' in the dough. She sure jumped on the gravy train at the right time. You've got to admire that!

[Happydog]

Hey WigD!!! Looking forward to more DECEMBER trip plans :) We are getting closer than I realized!!!!! :goodvibes

[DreaGirl]

Hope all went well today. :goodvibes:

[PracPerfPatricia]

Glad I could help! Just don't tell Shocker it was my idea! :laughing:

I am partial to the new Paprika print -- I think I need that in the backpack style -- I need a lot of room in a park bag, I have decided.

Hey Anita-I just got the new Vera Holiday Catalog-it looks more like a magazine...the Paprika is rather nice-there are a variety of selection...:thumbsup2

I'm sending good vibes that Max is history in your house at this point...and you can all relax and focus on lovely things...like your Christmas trip...:santa:

[wigdoutdismom]

I'm late to the party.

Is this late still within the "fashionably late" time frame? ;)
You are quite fashionable!


Your plans are really looking great-what a very, very fun trip you are going to have with everyone! That sounds like a magical way to spend Christmas. And I can't wait to read all about Harper's adventures in Disney World! :yay: I bet those pics of her watching Osborne Lights are going to be so sweet. :lovestruc

I can just imagine the wide eyes that little girl is going to have taking it all in!
I'm sorry of all you have been dealing with the FES. I was good friends with two of our FES' when I was a Senior in high school. One was a bit on the "wild" side. I remember going with him to his host family's home, and he was like a different person. INCREDIBLY respectful and kind to the children and the parents. Sounds like your FES just doesn't get it--or like MeMom said, wants to be sent back??? I hope it works out for him with the next family. I'm glad to hear that stress will be ending in your life soon, it's really all just too bad.... :hug:
Right now I'm thinking he just doesn't listen to anything we say.....
Thinking of you today as Max departs. I know this has been emotionally hard on all of you. I hope he finds a good fit or finds whatever he is needing, and I hope that he'll learn something valuable from this experience that can make him a better person in the future.

Enjoy your peaceful, happy home tonight!
I hope so too MeMom, although right now I'm a little bit upset with him. :sad2:
I agree with MeMom.

I hope this turns out to be a positive life experience for Max. Sometimes youthful mistakes end up teaching us valuable lessons. (I know I have some stories I could tell!)

Know that you did everything you possibly could to make this situation work!! :hug:
MeMom is a good soul...
I hope Max figures it out before he gets himself sent back home.
I am thinking about you today, Anita! :hug: Have a wonderful weekend!
We will! Thanks!
Sorry Wigd..... I stumbled upon one of those AOL sessions with her singing this song. She was playing the keyboard with her right foot and probably stoned out of her mind. Ever since then the song just stuck! She acts like a freak, but I think she is actually pretty talented (got accepted into or applied to Juliard at a very young age) and she is certainly rollin' in the dough. She sure jumped on the gravy train at the right time. You've got to admire that!
I have to admit I kind of enjoyed the video!:eek:
Hey WigD!!! Looking forward to more DECEMBER trip plans :) We are getting closer than I realized!!!!! :goodvibes
Gosh, isn't it somewhere about 70 days?!?:santa:

Hope all went well today. :goodvibes:
Still waiting....
Hey Anita-I just got the new Vera Holiday Catalog-it looks more like a magazine...the Paprika is rather nice-there are a variety of selection...:thumbsup2

I'm sending good vibes that Max is history in your house at this point...and you can all relax and focus on lovely things...like your Christmas trip...:santa:
History won't be made for another hour or two...:headache:

[wigdoutdismom]

Hey Anita-I just got the new Vera Holiday Catalog-it looks more like a magazine...the Paprika is rather nice-there are a variety of selection...:thumbsup2
:
I'll be keeping an eye on the mail! I should be getting that holiday magazine too!:thumbsup2

[DreaGirl]

Still there?! Oh man...

[wsushocker]

I'll be keeping an eye on the mail! I should be getting that holiday magazine too!:thumbsup2

Hmmmm, maybe it has already arrived! :cool1::rotfl2::rotfl::confused3

[DreaGirl]

Hmmmm, maybe it has already arrived! :cool1::rotfl2::rotfl::confused3

Those sound like fighting words....:rolleyes1

[wigdoutdismom]

Still there?! Oh man...
Well not actually here, but waiting for him to get here so we can get this show on the road.
Hmmmm, maybe it has already arrived! :cool1::rotfl2::rotfl::confused3

Hey Shocker, are you holding out on me!?!

[wigdoutdismom]

The move has happened, it went pretty smoothly, the house is ours again....

[Lady Lallie]

The move has happened, it went pretty smoothly, the house is ours again....

WOO HOO! :grouphug:

[IluvXU]

Glad FES is gone.... I feel for you.

I have a Vera Gift Certificate (well one for Merle Norman..) I is burning a hole in my pocket. All this talk of the catalog... I need to check it out. They are opening a Vera Bradley store here this month.

[Charleston Princess]

The move has happened, it went pretty smoothly, the house is ours again....

party: party: party:

[wigdoutdismom]

WOO HOO! :grouphug:
I can actually walk around in my jammies again!
Glad FES is gone.... I feel for you.

I have a Vera Gift Certificate (well one for Merle Norman..) I is burning a hole in my pocket. All this talk of the catalog... I need to check it out. They are opening a Vera Bradley store here this month.

What I wouldn't give for a Vera store, we have a few shops that carry some of the line.... That gift certificate would be burning a hole in my pocket too!

Still chuckling about your Luke comment on DreaGirl's report.... him in that wreck of a basement with his sisters. :rotfl2:
Anyplace that Harper is quickly turns into a wreck of a room.:eek:

[Happydog]

I am glad for you and your family -- this makes the best sense in the long run. And YES, WigD.... 70 days....or there about... I better look at my ticker!!! :rotfl:

[wigdoutdismom]

party: party: party:
I'm doing the relieved dance big time! Marc is feeling a little sad. He's a big softy.:goodvibes
I am glad for you and your family -- this makes the best sense in the long run. And YES, WigD.... 70 days....or there about... I better look at my ticker!!! :rotfl:
I hope he has a better time with his new family! WoW almost 70 days, with all the holidays I'm sure time will just fly by. I sure hope so!

[Wannabinnc]

Oh Wigd, I'm so glad that your home is yours again. I've been waiting for this day to come and FES would be gone. Enjoy your weekend and stay in your jammies!!! LOL

[jillyb]

Finally!!! Party at wigd's house!! :banana: :banana: :cool1: :cool1:

[DreaGirl]

The move has happened, it went pretty smoothly, the house is ours again....

:cool1::cheer2::dance3:

[jenjolt]

The move has happened, it went pretty smoothly, the house is ours again....

YAY I'm so happy for you and your family Anita!!!!

[MeMom]

Well, as you can see, we were all a little stressed about your uncomfortable situtation. Walking around in your PJ's last night and waking up to just your own family in a peaceful home this morning must be an awesome feeling for you! All of your DIS pals are pretty happy about it, too. :)

Now, on to happier conversation. We can spend the next two months enjoying the end of your summer trip :cool1: and preparing for you Christmas trip. :santa:

And if you just really want to talk about the fact that next Saturday morning 'me and the girls' will be walking around in our PJ's, waking up in a peaceful Port Orleans French Quarter in Disney World and spending the day in Magic Kingdom, feel free. :laughing:

[wigdoutdismom]

Oh Wigd, I'm so glad that your home is yours again. I've been waiting for this day to come and FES would be gone. Enjoy your weekend and stay in your jammies!!! LOL
WANNNNAAAAAAAA!

I'm sitting right here on the sofa, in my jammies bundled up in a blanket.:cloud9: I do have to go shopping for a bit today, so I will probably get dressed before heading out to that.
Finally!!! Party at wigd's house!! :banana: :banana: :cool1: :cool1:
Come on over, it's a pajama party!
:cool1::cheer2::dance3:
Feeling the same way, Max didn't seem too sad either.....
YAY I'm so happy for you and your family Anita!!!!
I just am having a rather content moment right now, as I try to reason my way into a spring break trip....:rolleyes1
quote]Well, as you can see, we were all a little stressed about your uncomfortable situtation. Walking around in your PJ's last night and waking up to just your own family in a peaceful home this morning must be an awesome feeling for you! All of your DIS pals are pretty happy about it, too. :)
It is awesome, no more late night runs to the grocery store, or late night I have to have this washed for tomorrow morning. Ahhhhhh, sitting here in my jammies, double Ahhhhhhh!
I have the best bunch of DIS pals, it's nice to be in such good company!

Now, on to happier conversation. We can spend the next two months enjoying the end of your summer trip :cool1: and preparing for you Christmas trip. :santa:
Yes, the summer trip will be wrapping up very soon and then more on our Christmas trip that in in 2 months and a few odd days.

And if you just really want to talk about the fact that next Saturday morning 'me and the girls' will be walking around in our PJ's, waking up in a peaceful Port Orleans French Quarter in Disney World and spending the day in Magic Kingdom, feel free. :laughing:[/quote]
I'd be more than happy to talk about a week from today. We love POFQ we spent our summer '07 trip there. It is simply charming! If we ever went without points I would want a do-over there! I can't wait to read all about the many adventures of MeMom and the girls doing the "Big Easy". Let's see, I don't remember if they throw beads off those balconies or not......:rolleyes1

[wigdoutdismom]

OK friends, moving on to this Christmas trip! I'm having some ADR remorse and need advice....
We have Christmas Eve late lunch booked with CP package. Our ADR is at Biergarten.....
Basically was trying to do something nice for Max.
Although I enjoyed some of the food and the atmosphere was great, Baylor wouldn't eat a thing and then we have the rest of the group to deal with. I just don't think they are going to like it. I'm afraid we might be stuck though.....
Any thoughts? We have looked at the other choices to go with the package and it looks like 9 Dragons could be a possibility but that makes me think of the movie "A Christmas Story" when they end up eating Chinese....

Also, when we eat at Le Cellier. I always get the mushroom filet wtih risotto. I've heard good things about the cream cheese mashed. Should I break an old habit and have the mashed?

[Charleston Princess]

As long as they don't serve you the duck still looking like a duck, you should be okay! :laughing:

Yes, break your habit and try the cream cheese mashed potatoes -- then I can live vicariously through you! :goodvibes

[IluvXU]

I love the mashed potatoes... so I recommend those.

Glad your FES is gone.

I think I would switch ADRs if I could too.

[wigdoutdismom]

As long as they don't serve you the duck still looking like a duck, you should be okay! :laughing:
I'm sure Baylor would have some comment like......Heeeeerrrrreee's Donald!
He's been practicing his (Jack Nicholson) Jack Torrence for his Halloween costume from The Shining. What's with 5th graders and their need for scary costumes?

Yes, break your habit and try the cream cheese mashed potatoes -- then I can live vicariously through you! :goodvibes
Any chance that Canadian Steak House will be on your list for next summer?

[wigdoutdismom]

I love the mashed potatoes... so I recommend those.

Glad your FES is gone.

I think I would switch ADRs if I could too.

Those mashed potatoes sound very tasty!
I hope FES woke up this morning with a new outlook on his year.
We are looking at the prices for the other tiers of dining for CP, this is one of our oop meals and we are paying for 6 adults. Biergarten is least expensive at $32 per person. The next tier is $39 per person and I'm just not feeling those choices either. The last tier is $52 per person. So in addition to our dining plan we are looking at an extra chunk of change for this meal.

[Happydog]

Yeah, I would ditch the Biergarten, too, if you are not wedded to it... I just don't think it sounds very interesting for me, and I know I couldn't get my guys to eat there either.. 9 Dragons isn't a BAD choice -- have you eaten there? I hear it is really neat inside... nothing else available? We are not doing the CP package, we are going to try to wing it with entrance.... It was too expensive to plan on having an attentive audience out of a 4 and 7 yr old... Plus with DBIL, I wasn't sure he'd want to do it. We have a regular dinner ADR at Le Cellier. I am hopeful we will be able to hear it if we can't get in to see it...

OH re the risotto vs. potatoes, DH had the potatoes... they were some kinda yum... that is all I can say... but so are those gratin potatoes with the NY strip!

For such a large party, :eek: $52.00 a head, YIKES! I agree... this is a hard call. :headache:

[Native NYer]

Joining in. I've read your tr and haven't really posted b/c my third graders seemed to have wiped me out the past couple of weeks!

So great that you're going at Christmas. We're going December 2010, but early in the month. I can't seem to convince my family to leave NYC for Christmas :headache:

Can't wait to read more :goodvibes

[DreaGirl]

I would also try for something else. I'm sure Nine Dragons would be fine...just no one order Donald. ;)

I've never had the potatoes, but I'm thinking of switching this trip. If I do, I'll let you know. :)

[MeMom]

Go for the potatoes. They are great!

Where would Baylor like to eat? I'd probably let him choose.

[eandesmom]

I like MeMom's idea of letting Baylor choose.

Atmosphere wise the Biergarten would feel a lot more Christmasy to me but for whatever reason my kids were able to find enough kid friendly stuff on the buffet to be happy (enough). The big kids didn't feel it. Still I did love the show so it might come down to show/atmosphere versus food and maybe letting Baylor pick is a good way to not have to think too hard yourself!

It is a big chunk of change to not be happy with your choice though!

yeah for jammies!

[manntra]

Ohhhhhh Anita so sorry about all of the FES trouble :hug: but happy that it is now resolved and hopefully he will be able to get acclimated somewhere else.
Re: Biergarten...I love their food....and very fun atmosphere but it might be fun to let Baylor choose.
Well, I am all caught up after my trip....seems like I just left :rolleyes: We had beautiful weather...mid 90's each day, did MS for the first time (both sides! :scared1:) had several frozen drinks and was stuck on EE and had to walk down! :laughing: I posted a lot of pictures on FB and had some good Kidani savanna pictures...lots of animals....Oh and lots of Manpris! One day alone we counted 34...that was at AK and Epcot....Epcot is swarming with them! :lmao:

Tracy

[wigdoutdismom]

Yeah, I would ditch the Biergarten, too, if you are not wedded to it... I just don't think it sounds very interesting for me, and I know I couldn't get my guys to eat there either.. 9 Dragons isn't a BAD choice -- have you eaten there? I hear it is really neat inside... nothing else available?
I'm sure there is availability in the more expensive categories if it weren't in the high group I would want to do Chefs.
We are not doing the CP package, we are going to try to wing it with entrance.... It was too expensive to plan on having an attentive audience out of a 4 and 7 yr old... Plus with DBIL, I wasn't sure he'd want to do it. We have a regular dinner ADR at Le Cellier. I am hopeful we will be able to hear it if we can't get in to see it...
I don't blame you one bit for not doing the package, it's pricey and this might not be the year for the boys to enjoy it enough to shell out that kind of money.

OH re the risotto vs. potatoes, DH had the potatoes... they were some kinda yum... that is all I can say... but so are those gratin potatoes with the NY strip!
I am thinking the smashed potatoes are going to be my choice.:goodvibes

For such a large party, :eek: $52.00 a head, YIKES! I agree... this is a hard call. :headache:
I know, it's going to be an expensive meal, even if we stick with Biergarten...

Joining in. I've read your tr and haven't really posted b/c my third graders seemed to have wiped me out the past couple of weeks!

So great that you're going at Christmas. We're going December 2010, but early in the month. I can't seem to convince my family to leave NYC for Christmas :headache:

Can't wait to read more :goodvibes
Welcome! I'm glad you are here! We are very excited to go at Christmas time. Honestly, I wish we could go earlier in the month but our school calendar just doesn't allow for it. Where are you planning to stay next December?
So do you teach third grade in public schools in NYC?
Go for the potatoes. They are great!

Where would Baylor like to eat? I'd probably let him choose.
That's a good idea, I might see what he thinks! I think it's going to be the mushroom fillet and the mashed.:goodvibes
I like MeMom's idea of letting Baylor choose.

Atmosphere wise the Biergarten would feel a lot more Christmasy to me but for whatever reason my kids were able to find enough kid friendly stuff on the buffet to be happy (enough). The big kids didn't feel it. Still I did love the show so it might come down to show/atmosphere versus food and maybe letting Baylor pick is a good way to not have to think too hard yourself!

It is a big chunk of change to not be happy with your choice though!

yeah for jammies!
I do think the atmosphere in Biergarten would be really cool for Christmas Eve, we just have to look back over the choices on the buffet. I really think Baylor just needed more help in making selections on our last visit.
Oh and yay for jammies too!
[quote]Ohhhhhh Anita so sorry about all of the FES trouble :hug: but happy that it is now resolved and hopefully he will be able to get acclimated somewhere else.
I'm glad we have moved on, it was best for everyone.
Re: Biergarten...I love their food....and very fun atmosphere but it might be fun to let Baylor choose.
I'm a fan too, looking back on our meal last spring I think we should have helped Baylor more, he is usually good at trying new things but when he arrived at the table with an all but empty plate, I about freaked! I've looked at the menu and they do have some things that he likes so we just need to talk about it.
Well, I am all caught up after my trip....seems like I just left :rolleyes: We had beautiful weather...mid 90's each day, did MS for the first time (both sides! :scared1:) had several frozen drinks and was stuck on EE and had to walk down! :laughing: I posted a lot of pictures on FB and had some good Kidani savanna pictures...lots of animals....Oh and lots of Manpris! One day alone we counted 34...that was at AK and Epcot....Epcot is swarming with them! :lmao:
Sounds like you had a great time, have you started the trip report yet?
I can't believe that you had to walk off EE.......yikes!
I'll have to head over to fb and take a peek at your pictures.

[wsushocker]

Go for the potatoes. They are great!

Where would Baylor like to eat? I'd probably let him choose.

Where would Shocker like to eat? I'd probably let him choose.

[fairyfan]

OK friends, moving on to this Christmas trip! I'm having some ADR remorse and need advice....
We have Christmas Eve late lunch booked with CP package. Our ADR is at Biergarten.....
Basically was trying to do something nice for Max.
Although I enjoyed some of the food and the atmosphere was great, Baylor wouldn't eat a thing and then we have the rest of the group to deal with. I just don't think they are going to like it. I'm afraid we might be stuck though.....
Any thoughts? We have looked at the other choices to go with the package and it looks like 9 Dragons could be a possibility but that makes me think of the movie "A Christmas Story" when they end up eating Chinese....

Also, when we eat at Le Cellier. I always get the mushroom filet wtih risotto. I've heard good things about the cream cheese mashed. Should I break an old habit and have the mashed?

Wigd, get the mashed - I loved them with the mushroom filet! It's worth a try!

[wigdoutdismom]

Where would Shocker like to eat? I'd probably let him choose.
OK, so choose!
Wigd, get the mashed - I loved them with the mushroom filet! It's worth a try!

I am going for the mashed!:thumbsup2

[MEK]

The move has happened, it went pretty smoothly, the house is ours again....


So glad to hear that the move is over. It won't be long until he starts annoying the crap out of some other unsuspecting soul. Enjoy your FES free weekend! (and life)

[wigdoutdismom]

So glad to hear that the move is over. It won't be long until he starts annoying the crap out of some other unsuspecting soul. Enjoy your FES free weekend! (and life)

So funny Mary Ellen, Marc and I were just wondering if he had already made a nuisance of himself .....:rotfl2:

[DWGal210]

All this talk of mushroom filets and mashed potatoes is making me hungry - and I just had dinner! popcorn::

I hear what you're sayin' about Biergarten. I think MeMom's idea of letting Baylor choose is a good idea. I have 2 thoughts about the Christmas Eve meal; you could go super-nice or more casual, I think either is just fine. And I think Chinese on Christmas Eve sounds delicious!! OK, this is bad, now I have food on the brain.....

[Native NYer]

Welcome! I'm glad you are here! We are very excited to go at Christmas time. Honestly, I wish we could go earlier in the month but our school calendar just doesn't allow for it. Where are you planning to stay next December?
So do you teach third grade in public schools in NYC?


We're going early December 2010, but I'm taking off three days from school. I NEVER call in, so I think Disney is great excuse to be "sick" :lmao: Actually, the kids that will be in third grade next year are the offspring of a few Disney freaks. They'll understand :rotfl2:

I booked today for December 2010. We're staying at the Grand Floridian. I've been wanting to try it and figured December, with the decorations and gingerbread houses, is a great time. My brother and SIL are thinking of staying at the Swan or Dolphin b/c they have a ton of Sheraton points. I'm trying to convince them that the GF is where they need to be.

I teach at a lab school run by a university. It's a gifted program. And right now, we're in the middle of admissions season and it's crazy.

What grade do you teach?

On another note, are you happy with your DVC purchase? I am seriously considering buying but b/c I'm so OCD need to do tons of research and get everyone's opinion :rotfl:

[shannn]

I don't know about Biergarten for Christmas. I'd be more likely to try and go with something "nicer" (but I'm not so fond of Biergarten...) It's a lot of money!! Making Marc or Baylor choose is a good idea! :lmao:

[Charleston Princess]

I'm sure Baylor would have some comment like......Heeeeerrrrreee's Donald!
He's been practicing his (Jack Nicholson) Jack Torrence for his Halloween costume from The Shining. What's with 5th graders and their need for scary costumes?

I know it! They aren't any better in middle school. Chelsea and I are already going around in circles about her costume -- she has two Halloween parties and the Halloween school dance, so she needs a costume for all of those. She wants to be a Gothic Alice in Wonderland. :confused3

Any chance that Canadian Steak House will be on your list for next summer?

Oh, probably -- Charles and I really liked the Canadian food at Food and Wine, and one of those things was the Cheddar Cheese soup.

[wigdoutdismom]

All this talk of mushroom filets and mashed potatoes is making me hungry - and I just had dinner! popcorn::
It sure makes my mouth water just thinking about it!

I hear what you're sayin' about Biergarten. I think MeMom's idea of letting Baylor choose is a good idea. I have 2 thoughts about the Christmas Eve meal; you could go super-nice or more casual, I think either is just fine. And I think Chinese on Christmas Eve sounds delicious!! OK, this is bad, now I have food on the brain.....
Well, we are kind of watching the tier pricing for the package.

We're going early December 2010, but I'm taking off three days from school. I NEVER call in, so I think Disney is great excuse to be "sick" :lmao: Actually, the kids that will be in third grade next year are the offspring of a few Disney freaks. They'll understand :rotfl2:
I'm sure they will totally understand especially since you are so dependable!

I booked today for December 2010. We're staying at the Grand Floridian. I've been wanting to try it and figured December, with the decorations and gingerbread houses, is a great time. My brother and SIL are thinking of staying at the Swan or Dolphin b/c they have a ton of Sheraton points. I'm trying to convince them that the GF is where they need to be.
Oh my, very nice! We have never stayed at GF but I'm sure it will be amazing, especially at Christmas....

I teach at a lab school run by a university. It's a gifted program. And right now, we're in the middle of admissions season and it's crazy.

What grade do you teach?
I teach 2nd grade at our neighborhood school. I'd be afraid of those gifted kids, I'm sure they would be much smarter than me!:cutie:

On another note, are you happy with your DVC purchase? I am seriously considering buying but b/c I'm so OCD need to do tons of research and get everyone's opinion :rotfl:
We are very happy with our DVC. However, the one thing I would change is, I would not have purchased through Disney. You can get so much more for your money if you purchase resale. We bought twice through Disney, then did add-on points through the Timeshare Store. If we had bought them all from Timeshare store we would have a lot more points now.

I don't know about Biergarten for Christmas. I'd be more likely to try and go with something "nicer" (but I'm not so fond of Biergarten...) It's a lot of money!! Making Marc or Baylor choose is a good idea! :lmao:
I can't get Marc to choose between Taco Bell and McDonalds...... This should be interesting!

I know it! They aren't any better in middle school. Chelsea and I are already going around in circles about her costume -- she has two Halloween parties and the Halloween school dance, so she needs a costume for all of those. She wants to be a Gothic Alice in Wonderland. :confused3
I think she will be a darling goth Alice, kind of like a Tim Burton character....



Oh, probably -- Charles and I really liked the Canadian food at Food and Wine, and one of those things was the Cheddar Cheese soup.
We had the Cheddar Cheese soup last year at f&w and since then we order it to dip our pretzel bread in. Very yum! I really think you all will love it, the food has always been so good when we have eaten there.

[Native NYer]

I hadn't even thought about buying resale. I need to look into that.
Any suggestions on home resorts?

It's so exciting that you get to actually be there for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. You're going to have such a great time!

[cjackearl]

I'm so glad you now have a FES-free home, Anita. I'm mad at that little twit for taking what could have been an awesome experience for Baylor and ruining it.:mad:

Good luck with your Christmas Eve restaurant decision. I don't know. I think Biergarten is a fun place to eat and there's no country more "Christmasy" than Germany. The food didn't "wow" but I thought there was quite a lot of variety, even for picky diners. Granted, this was a few years ago, but I remember buttered noodles and sausages going over well with my girls. Nine Dragons could be a nice choice also. Do the waiters sing, "Deck the Halls?":laughing:

[Pixieflip]

Oh. it's so hard to make everyone in the group happy, isn't it? Good luck with your ADR decision! Chinese for Christmas dinner sounds very memorable! :lmao:

[wsushocker]

I can't get Marc to choose between Taco Bell and McDonalds...... This should be interesting!

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/mcdonald-1.jpg

[wsushocker]

I think she will be a darling goth Alice, kind of like a Tim Burton character....

I thought I would supply a few examples and the last dress is actually for sale on ebay for $170.00 + shipping!

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/Aliceskls1.jpg


http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/goth-alice-in-wonderland-amylee.jpg


http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/gothicalicef.jpg

[Charleston Princess]

Yikes!!! Why can't my little girl just go for the traditional Disney Alice??? :laughing:

[brookelizabeth]

Glad to hear the move with the FES went smoothly and you have your home back to normal. :goodvibes

We have looked at the other choices to go with the package and it looks like 9 Dragons could be a possibility but that makes me think of the movie "A Christmas Story" when they end up eating Chinese....

:lmao: That is sooooo funny! Avoid Red Rider BB Guns, lamps that look like legs, and fuzzy bunny pajamas and you should be ok...;)

I'm looking forward to hearing if you able to snag LeCellier. That would be my complete ideal place if my pocketbook agreed!! YUM!

[wigdoutdismom]

I hadn't even thought about buying resale. I need to look into that.
Any suggestions on home resorts? /quote]
Disney will offer you a deal, like enough points for an extra stay, in our case they were developer points. It sounds great at the time but the deals out there with resale will get you more points in the long run for every year that you are a member... Does that make sense? You can go on a wait list to buy sold out resorts from Disney and I think you will pay about $103 per point. Buy that same resort on re-sale and you could be looking at around $88 per point.
We have stayed at Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, and Beach Club so far. In my opinion it's all about location. Saratoga Springs is very close to DTD. Old Key West is just a boat ride away from DTD. Beach Club is a less than 5 minute walk from World Showcase and a 15 minute walk to the Studios. It's a much smaller resort and we like that. Also staying at Beach Club has somthing that you can't get elsewhere and can't use if you aren't a guest, Storm Along Bay. It's awesome! One more plus to the Beach Club is that the Boardwalk is just a short stroll and a fun place to spend an hour or two.
We have not stayed at Kidani yet but I know we are going to enjoy it very much. I'll imagine though we will continue to love our Beach Club home the best. The great thing is that we haven't stayed at a DVC resort that we haven't really liked a lot! They are all very nice.

[quote]It's so exciting that you get to actually be there for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. You're going to have such a great time!
We can't wait! I'll bet we are elbow to elbow to people though, don't you think it will be packed?

I'm so glad you now have a FES-free home, Anita. I'm mad at that little twit for taking what could have been an awesome experience for Baylor and ruining it.:mad:
You know, Baylor has asked it we could try it again next year......
I almost choked, NO couldn't have flown out of my mouth faster.

Good luck with your Christmas Eve restaurant decision. I don't know. I think Biergarten is a fun place to eat and there's no country more "Christmasy" than Germany. The food didn't "wow" but I thought there was quite a lot of variety, even for picky diners. Granted, this was a few years ago, but I remember buttered noodles and sausages going over well with my girls.
Of all the choices we have from the bottom two tiers Biergarten is my first pick. I'm going to have the girls take a look at the menu. Then we will talk it over with Baylor to make sure he is happy.
Nine Dragons could be a nice choice also. Do the waiters sing, "Deck the Halls?":laughing:

:laughing::lmao::rotfl2::rotfl:
Oh. it's so hard to make everyone in the group happy, isn't it? Good luck with your ADR decision! Chinese for Christmas dinner sounds very memorable! :lmao:
I know, it's probably impossible to make everyone happy, but it's also impossible not to at least try. So we shall see....
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/mcdonald-1.jpg
Okay, you always choose MDs, but any other time I ask you to choose you won't....:headache:
I think she will be a darling goth Alice, kind of like a Tim Burton character....

I thought I would supply a few examples and the last dress is actually for sale on ebay for $170.00 + shipping!

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/Aliceskls1.jpg


http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/goth-alice-in-wonderland-amylee.jpg


http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt335/wsushocker/gothicalicef.jpg
That is a darling dress, really it is!
Yikes!!! Why can't my little girl just go for the traditional Disney Alice??? :laughing:
Hmmmm, well, I'm thinking the goth Alice is going to be very cool...... Chelsea is at that very cool age, especially when dressing up for Halloween. Embrace it Jackie! I can't wait to see the pictures!
Glad to hear the move with the FES went smoothly and you have your home back to normal. :goodvibes
It's such a good feeling and we have had so much fun this weekend!



:lmao: That is sooooo funny! Avoid Red Rider BB Guns, lamps that look like legs, and fuzzy bunny pajamas and you should be ok...;)

I'm looking forward to hearing if you able to snag LeCellier. That would be my complete ideal place if my pocketbook agreed!! YUM!
The LeCellier would have cost us $52 per person, besides we have another meal there earlier in the trip. They also offer the package with R&C but we have an evening ADR there hoping to catch Illuminations from the patio.
Right now I'm thinking that we are going to be at Biergarten if we can find something for Baylor to eat on the buffet.

[Native NYer]

It'll be crowded, but it's Disney at Christmas. You'll have a good time no matter what :goodvibes

Love the Alice costumes. Now I'm rethinking the Disney costume I ordered :lmao:

[wigdoutdismom]

It'll be crowded, but it's Disney at Christmas. You'll have a good time no matter what :goodvibes

Love the Alice costumes. Now I'm rethinking the Disney costume I ordered :lmao:

We will have fun, it's our first time with a stroller so I'm just a bit worried getting it through the crowds.
That Alice dress on ebay is just perfect!

[jillyb]

Hey Jackie...what about this one?

http://www.costumeexpress.com/Alice-Tween-Costume/62245/ProductDetail.aspx

Or maybe you can get her to be the Mad Hatter!

http://www.costumeexpress.com/Mad-Hatter-Pre-Teen-Costume/32752/ProductDetail.aspx

[wigdoutdismom]

[quote]Hey Jackie...what about this one?

http://www.costumeexpress.com/Alice-Tween-Costume/62245/ProductDetail.aspx

Or maybe you can get her to be the Mad Hatter!
Jilly that Alice costume is pretty cute!

[shannn]

Hey Jackie...what about this one?

http://www.costumeexpress.com/Alice-Tween-Costume/62245/ProductDetail.aspx




Oooooo... I like that one!

[vamassey1]

We did Biergarten on our June trip. For me it was just okay. I'm glad I've done it but I don't think I'll repeat it. The girls had trouble finding stuff they liked, but we did enjoy the entertainment.

I ordered Danielle a costume from the place Jilly mentioned. I'm waiting for it to come in. She's going to be the pink Ninja.

[Wrexie]

Christmas at Disney sounds like so much fun! I've never been to the Biergarten and won't end up trying it when I'm there in January, because buffets=bad idea for my will power.

However, it sounds like an awesome choice for Christmas, because I'm betting they'll have a live "oompah" band playing Christmas music and that will make things so festive. Buffets are always fun at the holidays too--you can relax and eat as much as you want and have seconds on the things you like the best.

I've been to the Hoffbrauhaus in Munich-- http://www.hofbraeuhaus.de/en/index_en.html -- which is the quintessential biergarten. The beer there comes in liter mugs! We were horribly jetlagged, but my husband and I somehow managed to drink two liters each. I'm still not sure how we did that and walked back to our hotel, but I remember feeling better than I had felt all day!

While I don't recommend drinking two liters of beer on a family vacation, Christmas in a biergarten sounds awfully fun! :yay:

[wigdoutdismom]

Oooooo... I like that one!
I wish I could dress up as Alice and not look like a fool.....:laughing:
Christmas at Disney sounds like so much fun! I've never been to the Biergarten and won't end up trying it when I'm there in January, because buffets=bad idea for my will power.
If I were taking off the pounds I'd be wary of the buffets too!

However, it sounds like an awesome choice for Christmas, because I'm betting they'll have a live "oompah" band playing Christmas music and that will make things so festive. Buffets are always fun at the holidays too--you can relax and eat as much as you want and have seconds on the things you like the best.
I do think it will be very festive there, my wish would be to get a good table and everyone find something to eat that they enjoyed.

I've been to the Hoffbrauhaus in Munich-- http://www.hofbraeuhaus.de/en/index_en.html -- which is the quintessential biergarten. The beer there comes in liter mugs! We were horribly jetlagged, but my husband and I somehow managed to drink two liters each. I'm still not sure how we did that and walked back to our hotel, but I remember feeling better than I had felt all day!
That looked like a very cool place to go! I can't believe you were able to walk back to your hotel, are you sure they didn't carry you?

While I don't recommend drinking two liters of beer on a family vacation, Christmas in a biergarten sounds awfully fun! :yay:
No, there will be no two liter beer drinking, for me anyway!:cutie:

[Happydog]

Hey I saw your note about the stroller -- if I could manage it on the 4th of July I am sure it will be fine. Actually helps you move through crowds! Not like you are running over people, but it helps "forge the path!" ;) I am thinking we will bring ours ONE more time... Or at least the single. I found it peace of mind in crowds. I knew where they were...

[Charleston Princess]

Cute Alice costumes! I showed them to Chelsea, but she said one of her friends is now going to be Goth Alice after Chelsea talked about it. :headache: I like the Mad Hatter one, too, but it isn't in Chelsea's size. :(

[wigdoutdismom]

Hey I saw your note about the stroller -- if I could manage it on the 4th of July I am sure it will be fine. Actually helps you move through crowds! Not like you are running over people, but it helps "forge the path!" ;) I am thinking we will bring ours ONE more time... Or at least the single. I found it peace of mind in crowds. I knew where they were...
Thanks, that makes me feel much better about pushing one, but I have no idea how well Harper will ride in it with so many people around. This is going to be very interesting....
Cute Alice costumes! I showed them to Chelsea, but she said one of her friends is now going to be Goth Alice after Chelsea talked about it. :headache: I like the Mad Hatter one, too, but it isn't in Chelsea's size. :(
Her friend stole her idea, now that's just wrong.....:mad:

[Charleston Princess]

Her friend stole her idea, now that's just wrong.....:mad:

I think so, too. I told her that whatever she thinks up next not to say anything to anybody. :headache:

[wigdoutdismom]

Boy talk about lesson learned.... I'm sure she will think of something else but that was such a cute idea....

[Lady Lallie]

Why are girls so mean to each other!?! Ugh! You couldn't pay me a million dollars to go back to that age. :headache:

[Charleston Princess]

Why are girls so mean to each other!?! Ugh! You couldn't pay me a million dollars to go back to that age. :headache:

Me neither. Mean, mean, mean. I was miserable my 7th grade year.

[Lady Lallie]

Me neither. Mean, mean, mean. I was miserable my 7th grade year.

Middle school was not fun but my senior year was worse. UGH. :headache: I couldn't graduate fast enough that year let me tell you.

[wigdoutdismom]

My memories of Jr. High were not the best either. Such a tough time to get through. Jackie, you must see it every day with your age group.:sad2:

[Happydog]

High School isn't much better!!! But she could always be a BETTER Goth Alice.....;)

[wigdoutdismom]

Actually I'm thinking that her little friend needs to have her hair pulled,just a tad, pirate: but not by Chelsea......:rolleyes1
OH and I didn't just say that.......

[Charleston Princess]

Middle school was not fun but my senior year was worse. UGH. :headache: I couldn't graduate fast enough that year let me tell you.

My memories of Jr. High were not the best either. Such a tough time to get through. Jackie, you must see it every day with your age group.:sad2:

High School isn't much better!!! But she could always be a BETTER Goth Alice.....;)

I agree! I do see a lot of it at my school -- I can't tell you how many times a day, I admonish students to be nice!

Happydog, I suggested that to Chelsea, but she wants to be completely original. :rolleyes:

Actually I'm thinking that her little friend needs to have her hair pulled,just a tad, pirate: but not by Chelsea......:rolleyes1
OH and I didn't just say that.......

:lmao::rotfl::rotfl2: You're the best, Anita!

[Lady Lallie]

How about a goth tinkerbell then?

[wigdoutdismom]

How about a goth tinkerbell then?

That would be very cute!

[wigdoutdismom]

Well, I don't think I told you all the latest on school. We start pool school tomorrow. Monday through Thursday for the next 2 weeks our 2nd graders will have swimming lessons.....
Statistics have shown that if a child can't swim by the 3rd grade they probably never will.....
The entire district will take part in this. There has been major controversy. I have tried to just go with the flow. Maybe it will save a child's life.

[Disneymoon09]

Well, I don't think I told you all the latest on school. We start pool school tomorrow. Monday through Thursday for the next 2 weeks our 2nd graders will have swimming lessons.....
Statistics have shown that if a child can't swim by the 3rd grade they probably never will.....
The entire district will take part in this. There has been major controversy. I have tried to just go with the flow. Maybe it will save a child's life.


this is the strangest thing i have ever heard! Where I live, parents pay the Red Cross in the summer for swim lessons. And the YMCA does them year round. Weird to integrate it into school. But I also went to a school without a pool, so that may be one of the big differences, not to mention my school was one big building that housed K-12 lol. so i might be way out of my zone here.

[MaryAz]

Jumping in over here too. Wow, that was some FES drama. Glad he is gone and all is back to "normal" The CHristmas trip sounds like such fun. Can't wait to read along.

[MeMom]

Well, I don't think I told you all the latest on school. We start pool school tomorrow. Monday through Thursday for the next 2 weeks our 2nd graders will have swimming lessons.....
Statistics have shown that if a child can't swim by the 3rd grade they probably never will.....
The entire district will take part in this. There has been major controversy. I have tried to just go with the flow. Maybe it will save a child's life.

That's very interesting. Do they do it during P.E. time? Do you have a pool at your school, or will they be traveling to a high school or community pool? I think it's a good idea. If it saves one life ever, it was worth the effort. I can't imagine our system ever doing something like this, but I do think it's a good thought. Most of our families can't afford lessons, since we have over 95% poverty families

[addictedtothemouse]

Actually I'm thinking that her little friend needs to have her hair pulled,just a tad, pirate: but not by Chelsea......:rolleyes1
OH and I didn't just say that.......:lmao::lmao::rotfl::rotfl:

[MEK]

[B][I][SIZE="3"]We are very happy with our DVC. However, the one thing I would change is, I would not have purchased through Disney. You can get so much more for your money if you purchase resale. We bought twice through Disney, then did add-on points through the Timeshare Store. If we had bought them all from Timeshare store we would have a lot more points now

If I had waited a year or two to buy my points, I would have a lot more now, too! :rotfl: But seriously, I was very happy with the timeshare store and as soon as I am ready to add points I will contact them directly for more! I recommend them to everyone. Some of the larger contracts that are coming through nowadays are really, really good!

[Lady Lallie]

I like the idea of swimming lessons for the kids. I never took swimming lessons growing up but in the summers all I wanted to do was swim so my parents taught me. My mom made it a priority since when she met my Dad he didn't know how to swim and neither did any of his siblings.

[DWGal210]

How about a goth tinkerbell then?

I agree, that would be VERY cool!

Those stinky kids - sometimes I think the girls are more mean to each other than the boys are. Boys seem to have their fights but then it's over - the girls remember and carry around the grudges. At least that's been my experience. Ahh the memories. :rolleyes: You couldn't pay me enough money to go back to those years!

[addictedtothemouse]

I agree, that would be VERY cool!

Those stinky kids - sometimes I think the girls are more mean to each other than the boys are. Boys seem to have their fights but then it's over - the girls remember and carry around the grudges. At least that's been my experience. Ahh the memories. :rolleyes: You couldn't pay me enough money to go back to those years! Me either! Who says that those are the best days of your life? :rolleyes:

[manntra]

Wishing you luck with the pool school. That really sounds like a great idea. There was a boy of about 5 or 6 last week at the Kidani pool and he was terrified of the water. I felt so bad for him...his parents were gently coaxing him and his older brother wanted him to go in too. :(
:eek: No more teen or school years for me thank you very much. My niece Brielle was a lot different this year than last...she is now 13 :scared1:and in the 8th grade---at the high school--they are a small district. She knows EVERYTHING!! :sad2:

Tracy

[wigdoutdismom]

Oh we don't have a pool at our school either, we took a bus that was 20 minutes late to our recreation center.
It does seem a little strange to take on one more thing when there is such an emphasis on testing. How do you teach everything you need to teach in a day and then lose 8 afternoons to pool school?

[PracPerfPatricia]

Hey Anita,

I'm glad that your home is your own again...:goodvibes

I think that you have a charitable attitude towards Max and lets all hope that he learned from this lesson and goes on to be a wiser more mature person...

I had to laugh when you brought up the Chinese food from a Christmas Story...I think it would be kind of cute to do the Chinese...but then again I like Chinese food...:lmao: (A Christmas Story has grown on me over the years...I didn't initially like it...but it really makes me laugh now...Stocking legged lamp anyone...:lmao:)

Not to hijak your thread:

Why are girls so mean to each other!?! Ugh! You couldn't pay me a million dollars to go back to that age. :headache:

Luckily Emily has pretty good self confidence-but there's a little group of witches...who are teasing her and a couple of her friends-this past weekend (for get this...being SMART. and being in honors classes-how warped is that?..:confused3

Btw-Jackie-Emily is going out as Alice and some of her friends are doing the other characters...but wow-you gotta watch some of those costumes for teens...or you look like you have the cast of an adult movie...:faint:

[DWGal210]

Hey Anita,

I'm glad that your home is your own again...:goodvibes

I think that you have a charitable attitude towards Max and lets all hope that he learned from this lesson and goes on to be a wiser more mature person...

I had to laugh when you brought up the Chinese food from a Christmas Story...I think it would be kind of cute to do the Chinese...but then again I like Chinese food...:lmao: (A Christmas Story has grown on me over the years...I didn't initially like it...but it really makes me laugh now...Stocking legged lamp anyone...:lmao:)

Not to hijak your thread:



Luckily Emily has pretty good self confidence-but there's a little group of witches...who are teasing her and a couple of her friends-this past weekend (for get this...being SMART. and being in honors classes-how warped is that?..:confused3

Btw-Jackie-Emily is going out as Alice and some of her friends are doing the other characters...but wow-you gotta watch some of those costumes for teens...or you look like you have the cast of an adult movie...:faint:

I heara ya on the costumes!! My sister and I were just discussing this the other day. Some of those are just offensive. Yikes. :scared1:

[Charleston Princess]

Luckily Emily has pretty good self confidence-but there's a little group of witches...who are teasing her and a couple of her friends-this past weekend (for get this...being SMART. and being in honors classes-how warped is that?..:confused3

I see that a lot since I teach the gifted kids. I always tell my students just to remind the ones picking on them that they will make more money when they are older because they do care about school. ;)

Btw-Jackie-Emily is going out as Alice and some of her friends are doing the other characters...but wow-you gotta watch some of those costumes for teens...or you look like you have the cast of an adult movie...:faint:

No kidding! Some of the ones Chelsea showed me were a teensy bit too much! :eek:

[eandesmom]

very cool on the swimming I think. It can be difficult to get kids on a regular enough lesson schedule so they actually learn. I think it's great.

Kendall was a Goth Fairy one year, rather tink-ish. It was cute.

I think she and 2 of her friends are regressing back a few years. They are debating between the PowerPuff girls (again).

Or Pie.

How one dresses as a lemon meringue pie I've not a clue.

Thankfully other than that we have one crazy inventor and one "random" which is my favorite, both Taylor and Kendall did it one year and apparently it is Evan's turn. Random means combining all the wierd parts of costumes collected over the years into one odd assemblage and accenting it with face paint and colored hair spray.

He originally wanted to be a fork, which I thought was hysterical.

[winkers]

my school district does the swimming thing. My boys all love it and Bailie was horrified that she would have to be in a bathing suit near boys.

[Happydog]

Me either! Who says that those are the best days of your life? :rolleyes:

Brian Adams from the 80s..... OOOOOOOOOOOOOh and look where this one shot wonder song got him.... CLEARLY no one agreed with him.... :rotfl:

[Happydog]

Oh we don't have a pool at our school either, we took a bus that was 20 minutes late to our recreation center.
It does seem a little strange to take on one more thing when there is such an emphasis on testing. How do you teach everything you need to teach in a day and then lose 8 afternoons to pool school?

Yes I would agree with you that would be hugely stressful. I am interested though, our two are in swim lessons right now, b/c neither swim, and DS7 is frankly a little skittish about the water -- I don't want him to be one of those statistics, even though both DH and I are not really avid water people.... the younger one is no fear in the water....

Still with the testing emphasis, I do wonder just like you say!:confused3

[Happydog]

No kidding! Some of the ones Chelsea showed me were a teensy bit too much! :eek:

OR a teensy bit to little... it seems... :laughing:

(the amount of fabric, that is...)

[Wannabinnc]

Oh we don't have a pool at our school either, we took a bus that was 20 minutes late to our recreation center.
It does seem a little strange to take on one more thing when there is such an emphasis on testing. How do you teach everything you need to teach in a day and then lose 8 afternoons to pool school?
As a Mom of a son who doesn't know how to swim, I totally agree with them learning how to in school. Right now we don't know what will happen next semester, as son, who is 36 has to swim in order to graduate from ECU...LOL. God help him......

[wigdoutdismom]

Jumping in over here too. Wow, that was some FES drama. Glad he is gone and all is back to "normal" The CHristmas trip sounds like such fun. Can't wait to read along.
Hi Mary! Welcome to the pre-trip!
It's very normal here at the house with just us, but I hope Max does well with his new family.
I'll just tell you the trip report to follow will be FULL if drama. I already have one daughter wanting to rent a car to so shopping at the outlets and guess what, she isn't old enough to drive a rental.....:headache:
That's very interesting. Do they do it during P.E. time? Do you have a pool at your school, or will they be traveling to a high school or community pool? I think it's a good idea. If it saves one life ever, it was worth the effort. I can't imagine our system ever doing something like this, but I do think it's a good thought. Most of our families can't afford lessons, since we have over 95% poverty families
Actually tomorrow is during P.E. time but for the most part the 8 days we are going are during language arts, social studies/science time....
We take a bus to a rec center with an indoor pool just about 5 minutes away. It is funded through a grant as part of our district wellness policy. I would say that only 1 in my 20 can't swim already, but a large number of our kids have their own pools. We also have a large water park near our school, so they swim a lot in the summer.
The school I taught at last year was much like your school. Those kids really needed the lessons. They simply didn't have the opportunity to learn.
:lmao::lmao::rotfl::rotfl:
I can just see it now, that girl is going to get her hair pulled and I will be blamed!:rotfl2:
If I had waited a year or two to buy my points, I would have a lot more now, too! But seriously, I was very happy with the timeshare store and as soon as I am ready to add points I will contact them directly for more! I recommend them to everyone. Some of the larger contracts that are coming through nowadays are really, really good!
I wish we had done a little more homework. I also wish I had some money right now for some of those contracts!
I like the idea of swimming lessons for the kids. I never took swimming lessons growing up but in the summers all I wanted to do was swim so my parents taught me. My mom made it a priority since when she met my Dad he didn't know how to swim and neither did any of his siblings.
Good for your parents, so many times it's easy to allow your fears to become the fears of your children. I'm glad you got your swimming lessons!
I agree, that would be VERY cool!
I wonder if Chelsea has decided on something else, Jackie you can tell us, we won't spill the beans to any mean girls!
Those stinky kids - sometimes I think the girls are more mean to each other than the boys are. Boys seem to have their fights but then it's over - the girls remember and carry around the grudges. At least that's been my experience. Ahh the memories. You couldn't pay me enough money to go back to those years!
Boys just get down to business when there is a problem but girls can be so vicious! Girls seem to have a much bigger problem letting go of a quarrel.

Me either! Who says that those are the best days of your life?
They weren't the best days of mine, although I did have some good times in High School....;)
Wishing you luck with the pool school. That really sounds like a great idea. There was a boy of about 5 or 6 last week at the Kidani pool and he was terrified of the water. I felt so bad for him...his parents were gently coaxing him and his older brother wanted him to go in too. :(
Day 2 of pool school is over, it was a much better day, although my girls had quite the problems getting dressed with their undried bodies. I told them that they were panty whiners!:laughing:
:eek: No more teen or school years for me thank you very much. My niece Brielle was a lot different this year than last...she is now 13 :scared1:and in the 8th grade---at the high school--they are a small district. She knows EVERYTHING!!

Tracy
My girls knew way too much as well. I'm glad we are finished with that!

Hey Anita,

I'm glad that your home is your own again...
It is really nice to be comfortable!:goodvibes

I think that you have a charitable attitude towards Max and lets all hope that he learned from this lesson and goes on to be a wiser more mature person...
Thanks, I hope he has a good year. It's a huge opportunity for him to waste!

I had to laugh when you brought up the Chinese food from a Christmas Story...I think it would be kind of cute to do the Chinese...but then again I like Chinese food... (A Christmas Story has grown on me over the years...I didn't initially like it...but it really makes me laugh now...Stocking legged lamp anyone...)
I think my biggest fear is that it won't be any better than the Chinese food we get here all the time.

Not to hijak your thread:
My thread is your thread! Feel free anytime....:goodvibes



Luckily Emily has pretty good self confidence-but there's a little group of witches...who are teasing her and a couple of her friends-this past weekend (for get this...being SMART. and being in honors classes-how warped is that?..
I'm sure it's a bad case of jealousy! :mad:

Btw-Jackie-Emily is going out as Alice and some of her friends are doing the other characters...but wow-you gotta watch some of those costumes for teens...or you look like you have the cast of an adult movie...:faint:
Oh please get some pictures to post!

I heara ya on the costumes!! My sister and I were just discussing this the other day. Some of those are just offensive. Yikes. :scared1:
I'm sure the boys won't mind them a bit.....:rolleyes1
I see that a lot since I teach the gifted kids. I always tell my students just to remind the ones picking on them that they will make more money when they are older because they do care about school. ;)
I've told my own daughters the same thing about some of the boys they considered "nerds". They are going to be making the big bucks.....



No kidding! Some of the ones Chelsea showed me were a teensy bit too much!
I'm sure Chelsea isn't interested in the teeny costumes....is she?;)

very cool on the swimming I think. It can be difficult to get kids on a regular enough lesson schedule so they actually learn. I think it's great.
I'll be watching my one little guy to see if he learns anything....:confused:

Kendall was a Goth Fairy one year, rather tink-ish. It was cute.

I think she and 2 of her friends are regressing back a few years. They are debating between the PowerPuff girls (again).

Or Pie.

How one dresses as a lemon meringue pie I've not a clue.

Thankfully other than that we have one crazy inventor and one "random" which is my favorite, both Taylor and Kendall did it one year and apparently it is Evan's turn. Random means combining all the wierd parts of costumes collected over the years into one odd assemblage and accenting it with face paint and colored hair spray.

He originally wanted to be a fork, which I thought was hysterical.
The goth tink sounds very cute and I'd like to see the end results of some of those costumes.....PIE???

my school district does the swimming thing. My boys all love it and Bailie was horrified that she would have to be in a bathing suit near boys.
I think my kids are too young to worry about how they look in a swimsuit, another good thing about second graders!:cutie:
Brian Adams from the 80s..... OOOOOOOOOOOOOh and look where this one shot wonder song got him.... CLEARLY no one agreed with him....
Oh my gosh, someone is showing her age! Brian Adams!:laughing:
Yes I would agree with you that would be hugely stressful. I am interested though, our two are in swim lessons right now, b/c neither swim, and DS7 is frankly a little skittish about the water -- I don't want him to be one of those statistics, even though both DH and I are not really avid water people.... the younger one is no fear in the water....

Still with the testing emphasis, I do wonder just like you say!:confused3
As of day two of swim lessons I have decided not to let it stress me out, we will teach as much as we can and have out swim lessons for eight afternoons. Baylor would be mad if he knew I mentioned this but we have had an inground pool since before he was born. He is very skittish around the water. I wish he would have had lessons in the second grade...
OR a teensy bit to little... it seems... :laughing:

(the amount of fabric, that is...)

A couple of year ago when my oldest daughter Megan was away at college I saw some Halloween pics of her as a naughty librarian.....:eek:

[wigdoutdismom]

As a Mom of a son who doesn't know how to swim, I totally agree with them learning how to in school. Right now we don't know what will happen next semester, as son, who is 36 has to swim in order to graduate from ECU...LOL. God help him......

Oh no Wanna! :eek: Can he swim at all???

[jenjolt]

Anita...I really have appreciated your conversation about DVC with MEK!! Prince P and I are seriously considering buying in the next year and we have been doing our homework and I'm glad we aren't wrong in serisouly considering resale as our option...that and I might want to buy at Old Key West and that would be the only way to go LOL!!!!!! So the two of you have been extremely helpful!!!

Wow...trust me as a fellow teacher I know how much pressure is on you!! I'm glad to hear you are just going to go with the flow and just keep swimming, just keep swimming (I'm sorry I couldn't resist, perfect Dory insert there LOL). Have a great week!!

[addictedtothemouse]

They weren't the best days of mine, although I did have some good times in High School....[/B];)


I must admit I did have some good times but none of them were with anyone I went to school with, just people I worked with. :rolleyes1

[wigdoutdismom]

Anita...I really have appreciated your conversation about DVC with MEK!! Prince P and I are seriously considering buying in the next year and we have been doing our homework and I'm glad we aren't wrong in serisouly considering resale as our option...that and I might want to buy at Old Key West and that would be the only way to go LOL!!!!!! So the two of you have been extremely helpful!!!
Well you know what they say about hindsight. I just keep thinking if we would have bought resale to begin with.......
I'm happy to be of some help!:goodvibes

quote]Wow...trust me as a fellow teacher I know how much pressure is on you!! I'm glad to hear you are just going to go with the flow and just keep swimming, just keep swimming (I'm sorry I couldn't resist, perfect Dory insert there LOL). Have a great week!![/quote]
The time the kids are in the pool isn't bad, even the locker room with the girls isn't bad, they have some of the funniest conversations while getting ready to swim and getting dressed after...:rotfl:
It's the time when the other two classes are in the pool that we have to keep them busy....
They have given us a racquetball court to use.....can you say 20 kids in an echo chamber?:scared1:
Then they give us a basketball court with basketballs.... I'm going to have to find some other activities for the gym besides shooting hoops, they are dropping like flies! Jammed fingers, balls to the face, oh did I say balls to the face???:confused:
I must admit I did have some good times but none of them were with anyone I went to school with, just people I worked with. :rolleyes1
Just as long as you had a good time and didn't get into much trouble.

[Happydog]

[
[B][I][SIZE="3"]Oh my gosh, someone is showing her age! Brian Adams!:laughing:

As of day two of swim lessons I have decided not to let it stress me out, we will teach as much as we can and have out swim lessons for eight afternoons. Baylor would be mad if he knew I mentioned this but we have had an inground pool since before he was born. He is very skittish around the water. I wish he would have had lessons in the second grade...


A couple of year ago when my oldest daughter Megan was away at college I saw some Halloween pics of her as a naughty librarian.....:eek:

OH I know, but Brian Adams was so popular!!!!! EWWWW is all I can say now! Something about middle school, I think, that was when I remember him and his dorky music!

Re the swimming, I was skittish around water, and still am to a degree, I just don't want my kids to get that "fear" from me... my youngest will be swimming before christmas I believe, and I am hopeful my 2nd grader will at least be more confident -- it is all about safety in my mind, I don't care if he only dog paddles the rest of his life, just want him to know what to do if he ever falls in water too deep...

Oh I have seen those kind of costumes!!! :laughing:

[eandesmom]

Hi Mary!
The goth tink sounds very cute and I'd like to see the end results of some of those costumes.....PIE???
:eek:

http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k308/eandesmom/DIS/goth-tink.gif

There were wings and a wand but I think she'd taken them off before we snapped the picture. I remember her having a hard time with those nails!
:rotfl:

yeah...pie.

:confused3