June 21, 2011 - The Wonder breaks the Alaskan icebergs!

[ratt1345]

Thanks kveens!!! That is no small task!!!

I can't believe we are less than a month away from cruising:banana::cool1:

Ginamarie, you have a tough one there. I am into hockey, but I understand that focusing on the cruise is more important than a 'possible' 7th game of the Finals!!!:lmao:

Now we just have to figure how to pack clothes, FE, FE gifts, etc.:scared1:

Charlie

[Ginamarie]

OK, I ordered the FE gifts for my group :D

We didn't go with the lanyards, but I think our gifts will be really cute anyway.

Now I have to start packing!! :banana:

[kveens]

I'd be glad to get a meet and greet together but not exactly sure how to do it. Any suggestions??? I read on another trip date that they had lime green ribbons to tie on their lanyards to show that we are Disboard members. I'd be glad to bring the ribbon. Joanne

Hi Joanne,

I am willing to help. I ordered 300 split ring key rings and 60 yds of lime green ribbon so we can put an identifier as being with the DISboards on our lanyards. If you just set up the meeting time and place so we can distribute, that should do it. My family and I plan on wearing bright orange OSU t-shirts on embarkation day, so I should be easy to spot.

Kerri

[DCLInauguralXmas]

What a wild ride! My 78 year old mother who is going on the cruise with us, fell on St Patricks Day, broke her shoulder had a complete shoulder replacement. In the mean time she also had surgery to remove a cyst and had a cateract removed. She just finished therapy on Friday, brought her home from the resident/rehab facility on Saturday. And now she is back in the hospital on Sunday with congestive heart failure. My fingers are crossed that my prayers are going to be answered and that she will be well enough to make the cross country trip for the cruise. The trip has been her inspiration throughout her recovery.

Now, two of my 4 children are sick (with a strep, I am afraid). Hoping that doesn't spread... I am glad that I did a bunch of preplanning for the trip. Now all I have to do is unwinterize the motorhome, have it checked out (since we are traveling cross country in the motorhome prior to the cruise), and PACK for 7 people before June 10th. omg! I am feeling the pressure.:scared1: I cannot wait until I am on board with a drink in my hand!!!!! :dance3: It will be nice to finally get to meet all of the great DIS members! :woohoo:

[PredzMan]

All of our cruise documents came this week. We are THRILLED about this cruise and can't wait to be sailing. DH has gotten himself into a tizzy because if the NHL finals go to a seventh game, it will be on June 17 in Vancouver. Should this happen, he's made himself determined to get to that game if by hook or by crook.


Ginamarie - We too will be up there on 6/17 and was hoping to get a tour of the Rogers Arena. Our flight gets in around 11am, so I think we should make it for the 1:30 tour at least. If there is a Game 7 we'll be there too, or at least try to be there. I might have a connection for tickets if it does get that far... But the way they are playing, I doubt it'll go 7 games.

Jerry & Sharon

[PredzMan]

Hi Joanne,

I am willing to help. I ordered 300 split ring key rings and 60 yds of lime green ribbon so we can put an identifier as being with the DISboards on our lanyards. If you just set up the meeting time and place so we can distribute, that should do it. My family and I plan on wearing bright orange OSU t-shirts on embarkation day, so I should be easy to spot.

Kerri

Could we still get in on the meet if we're not part of the FE stuff?

Jerry

[kveens]

Could we still get in on the meet if we're not part of the FE stuff?

Jerry


Absolutely! :thumbsup2Those 300 keyrings with green ribbon need to go to someone!:goodvibes

[kveens]

What a wild ride! My 78 year old mother who is going on the cruise with us, fell on St Patricks Day, broke her shoulder had a complete shoulder replacement. In the mean time she also had surgery to remove a cyst and had a cateract removed. She just finished therapy on Friday, brought her home from the resident/rehab facility on Saturday. And now she is back in the hospital on Sunday with congestive heart failure. My fingers are crossed that my prayers are going to be answered and that she will be well enough to make the cross country trip for the cruise. The trip has been her inspiration throughout her recovery.

Now, two of my 4 children are sick (with a strep, I am afraid). Hoping that doesn't spread... I am glad that I did a bunch of preplanning for the trip. Now all I have to do is unwinterize the motorhome, have it checked out (since we are traveling cross country in the motorhome prior to the cruise), and PACK for 7 people before June 10th. omg! I am feeling the pressure.:scared1: I cannot wait until I am on board with a drink in my hand!!!!! :dance3: It will be nice to finally get to meet all of the great DIS members! :woohoo:

So sorry for all of the health challenges your family has been facing. :hug: Prayers that everyone will be feeling good by RV departure time.

[PPFQP]

Could we still get in on the meet if we're not part of the FE stuff?

Jerry

We want to meet up also - but we're not in the FE. Count us in! Just tell us when and where.

[ilovepumba]

Hi Joanne,

I am willing to help. I ordered 300 split ring key rings and 60 yds of lime green ribbon so we can put an identifier as being with the DISboards on our lanyards. If you just set up the meeting time and place so we can distribute, that should do it. My family and I plan on wearing bright orange OSU t-shirts on embarkation day, so I should be easy to spot.

Kerri

Kerri, that is great! Thanks so much for getting the ribbon and rings!:cheer2:
Joanne

[ilovepumba]

I like charlie's idea of meeting on deck. Anyone know what time the sail away party is? How long is it usually? Any other suggestions for where to meet? I will make a lime green sign to hold up so you'll where we are. Joanne

[kveens]

I like charlie's idea of meeting on deck. Anyone know what time the sail away party is? How long is it usually? Any other suggestions for where to meet? I will make a lime green sign to hold up so you'll where we are. Joanne

According the the Personal Navigator posted, the lifeboat drills are at 4 p.m. and the sailaway party is from 4:15 to 5:00 p.m. Not a lot of time for those with main dining to get ready for dinner after the sailaway party, so probably don't want to have a meet after the sailaway.

I'd like to suggest we (you and I) hang on deck 10 near the stack between 3 and 3:30 for those DISers to come meet us and get their signifying keyring/ribbon, and those who are FE participants can see me for their map. Does that work for you?

Kerri

[kkliesing]

Hi Joanne,

I am willing to help. I ordered 300 split ring key rings and 60 yds of lime green ribbon so we can put an identifier as being with the DISboards on our lanyards. If you just set up the meeting time and place so we can distribute, that should do it. My family and I plan on wearing bright orange OSU t-shirts on embarkation day, so I should be easy to spot.

Kerri
Thanks for all you've done.

[ilovepumba]

According the the Personal Navigator posted, the lifeboat drills are at 4 p.m. and the sailaway party is from 4:15 to 5:00 p.m. Not a lot of time for those with main dining to get ready for dinner after the sailaway party, so probably don't want to have a meet after the sailaway.

I'd like to suggest we (you and I) hang on deck 10 near the stack between 3 and 3:30 for those DISers to come meet us and get their signifying keyring/ribbon, and those who are FE participants can see me for their map. Does that work for you?

Kerri

That works for me! As it gets closer I'll send out a reminder for everyone. I can already tell this will be a great cruise!:yay:

[mousemom11]

Kerri, I'd be happy to reimburse you for some of the cost of the keyrings and ribbon. At the very least, let me buy you a Drink of the Day!

DCL, so sorry to hear about your Mom! I hope and will pray that she is well enough to travel. Hugs to you :hug: The trip across country sounds like a great family time together! I'll join you in that drink on deck!

[DCLInauguralXmas]

Thanks for the thoughts and prayers, i am sorry for letting loose on here but i was just feeling very overwhelmed yesterday. Thanks for "listening"! I am looking forward to meeting you, we are gonna have an AWESOME cruise!!!! And it will be here before we know it!!!!!

:banana::yay::banana:

[yenptan]

Oh! I am new here. I have just found this board a few minutes ago. Hope I am not too late to join your fun. This is my 1st cruise EVER. I am going with my DH, DD (10) and her friend (11). Please add us to your meet-up list.

[Gilland18]

I'm super excited! Just got confirmation that we got the private room in Palo for our group of 13 for the nite we're in Skagway!! Can't wait. Our adult son decided to do a garage sale for spending money so we're doing that this weekend. It's coming quickly. Looking forward to meeting you on board.

[yenptan]

Looks like Texas will be well represented on this cruise!:cool1:


Add one more family here. I booked my cruise rather late (March 2011 maybe). and did not have time to research or plan. I am glad I found this board today. I am from Houston, Texas. we will be flying to Seattle on th 20th and stay a night at Hyatt Vancouver. See you all at Wonder.

[PPFQP]

I'm super excited! Just got confirmation that we got the private room in Palo for our group of 13 for the nite we're in Skagway!! Can't wait. Our adult son decided to do a garage sale for spending money so we're doing that this weekend. It's coming quickly. Looking forward to meeting you on board.

Like! :thumbsup2

We had the private room on our Spring Break cruise a couple of years ago. There were several families traveling together and all the adults got together for a dinner. It was so much fun -- and yummy! You will have a blast.

[PPFQP]

Add one more family here. I booked my cruise rather late (March 2011 maybe). and did not have time to research or plan. I am glad I found this board today. I am from Houston, Texas. we will be flying to Seattle on th 20th and stay a night at Hyatt Vancouver. See you all at Wonder.

Welcome!

[D23mom]

Didn't even think about the fact it is Summer Solstice. Even better. Traveling with my DD (n8tivecaligirl) & her family. We're excited about this trip. I've been reading the boards but didn't have my laptop to post. So this is my first post. Looking forward to meeting everyone. I'm in 6510, DD in 6136. We didn't get in in time for the FE though. They are coming from WI & I'm coming from San Diego

Judy

[kkliesing]

Oh! I am new here. I have just found this board a few minutes ago. Hope I am not too late to join your fun. This is my 1st cruise EVER. I am going with my DH, DD (10) and her friend (11). Please add us to your meet-up list.
Welcome. We're from Alvin, Tx.

[mousemom11]

:welcome: to our new cruisers!

[ilovepumba]

Howdy to all the new cruisers! We're having a meet and greet the day we board on deck 10 near the stack from 3-3:30. Come say hello. Look for the lime green sign. Kerri has ribbon and key rings for us to put on our lanyards so we'll know who is a Disboard member.:cool1: Can't wait to put faces to names and have some fun! Joanne

[yenptan]

OK. I will look for lime green sign. I will see if I can dig out a Houston or Texas t-shirt to wear that day. I am from West Houston too.

[D23mom]

27 days and counting :dance3: can't wait. Can't wait to meet you all.

[cjborne2]

I read through some of this long thread. We are excited to be going on this cruise as well! My husband and I traveled to Anchorage 3 years ago and loved the trip. We cruised on the Wonder in 08 to the Bahamas.

We are going with my in-laws and my brother-in-law and his family. We have 2 children. I noticed some of you have 10 year old girls. My daughter is too! My son is 8.

I am getting really excited for this trip. I've started to get the door decorations together and have put aside some of our long sleeve clothes in suitcases instead of storing them in the attic for the summer.

Looking forward to meeting you.
Jean

[kveens]

I was laid off two years ago this month from a company I worked for for 16 plus years. I had great severance and unemployment, but that is running out soon. I interviewed last week and earlier this week for a company I would really like to join. That leads me to my request: I am asking all of you who are sailing with us to say a little prayer or send good vibes :pixiedust my way that I hear some good news soon. I have been waiting to hear back since Tuesday, :hourglassand my nerves are getting frayed.

[ratt1345]

Kveens, I feel for you and will br praying for you. I was in a similar position 5 years ago. I feel blessed that I found a job, or should I say found me, 2 and a half months later. I have been with that company since. I can't only imagine what a strain and stress being unemployed puts on you and your family, I lived it!!!!:scared1::mad:
Good luck to you. You will be placed in a job that is right for you. I hope that this trip is a distraction to all that isn't right in the world for you. Who knows, by the time we sail, the world may be right again!!! If you know what I mean!!!:banana::cool1:

Charlie

[DCLInauguralXmas]

:wizard: PIXIE DUST...Pixie Dust... :wizard:

kveens - my fingers are crossed, prayers are being said and lots of pixie dust is coming your way!!! :)

I was laid off two years ago this month from a company I worked for for 16 plus years. I had great severance and unemployment, but that is running out soon. I interviewed last week and earlier this week for a company I would really like to join. That leads me to my request: I am asking all of you who are sailing with us to say a little prayer or send good vibes :pixiedust my way that I hear some good news soon. I have been waiting to hear back since Tuesday, :hourglassand my nerves are getting frayed.

[ilovepumba]

Praying for lots of pixie dust also!:wizard::wizard: :wizard:

[carolmb]

I was laid off two years ago this month from a company I worked for for 16 plus years. I had great severance and unemployment, but that is running out soon. I interviewed last week and earlier this week for a company I would really like to join. That leads me to my request: I am asking all of you who are sailing with us to say a little prayer or send good vibes :pixiedust my way that I hear some good news soon. I have been waiting to hear back since Tuesday, :hourglassand my nerves are getting frayed.

:wizard: Sending prayers and pixie dust your way :wizard:

[kveens]

:wizard: Sending prayers and pixie dust your way :wizard:

Thanks to all of you for your support. :grouphug: I am still awaiting word. I am really hoping that no news is good news. I know the hiring manager liked me, the HR recruiter likes me, and the team I met with Tuesday liked me. I guess it will be worth waiting for if I get the offer. Just a bit nerve racking at the moment.:headache: Your prayers and pixie dust mean a lot to me.:thanks:

[carolmb]

Thanks to all of you for your support. :grouphug: I am still awaiting word. I am really hoping that no news is good news. I know the hiring manager liked me, the HR recruiter likes me, and the team I met with Tuesday liked me. I guess it will be worth waiting for if I get the offer. Just a bit nerve racking at the moment.:headache: Your prayers and pixie dust mean a lot to me.:thanks:

I know what you mean about the waiting. I just interviewed yesterday for a school nurse position in my kids school district. So I waited for them to post the job, I waited for them to schedule the interview, and now waiting to hear if I got the job. I hope that I hear something by the time school gets out next week. :wizard: Pixie dust for everybody! :wizard: because who doesn't need a little pixie dust in their life from time to time.

[Meerkat504]

:wizard:

More pixie dust, Kerri & Carol!

[mousemom11]

pixiedust: to Kerri and Carol! I hope that you both get good news.

I took the girls shopping today and got their formal dresses and bathing suits for the cruise. My long underwear arrived in the mail last week. Now I need to get going on my packing list. I can't believe that we leave in less than 3 weeks to drive to Vancouver for our pre-cruise stay!

[MrsMeerkat504]

Did some FE gift purchasing today! Seems like the trip is right around the corner and I can't wait. Looking forward to meeting everybody from here on the board but really looking forward to meeting fellow Houstonians! DH, DS, and I live in Pearland!pirate:

[mousemom11]

Is there a family out there who would like to be our tablemates at dinner? We have main dining. We always enjoy sitting with another family and getting to know them during the cruise. My DH, Tom, and I love to chat (OK, we talk a lot :lmao:). Our DD's are 12 and 10 and LOVE Pokemon and other video games. They both like to spend time in the Kids Clubs, DD12 in Edge and DD10 in the Lab, and participate in the various activities.

Let me know if you're interested, and we can get our ressies linked.

[PPFQP]

Oh my, three weeks to go! I have been so busy with other things that now I am feeling PANICKED! So much to do, and now so little time left to get ready. We have so many other events coming up in the next couple of weeks that every minute seems allocated already.

What are you all packing, clothing-wise? My girls are used to hanging out in shorts, tanks and flip flops. I'm going to have to dig up their winter clothes, I think. Are you planning a mix of clothing? I am trying to plan for a wide range of temperatures.

[PredzMan]

Oh my, three weeks to go! I have been so busy with other things that now I am feeling PANICKED! So much to do, and now so little time left to get ready. We have so many other events coming up in the next couple of weeks that every minute seems allocated already.

What are you all packing, clothing-wise? My girls are used to hanging out in shorts, tanks and flip flops. I'm going to have to dig up their winter clothes, I think. Are you planning a mix of clothing? I am trying to plan for a wide range of temperatures.

Being from Wisconsin the wife and I are used to cold weather, but want to pack smart too. Our big question is if we bring our Columbia jackets. They are the 2-part kind where we could wear the outer shell if it's windy and the inside liner if it's just a bit cold. We're still debating on long underwear too.

Jerry

[yenptan]

Oh my, three weeks to go! I have been so busy with other things that now I am feeling PANICKED! So much to do, and now so little time left to get ready. We have so many other events coming up in the next couple of weeks that every minute seems allocated already.

What are you all packing, clothing-wise? My girls are used to hanging out in shorts, tanks and flip flops. I'm going to have to dig up their winter clothes, I think. Are you planning a mix of clothing? I am trying to plan for a wide range of temperatures.

Packing? What packing? Am I suppose to start packing now? Oh! dear. I think I will give myself one more week and then start packing. I will bring my Texas weather clothes for onboard use and winter jackets for ports. Do I need my ski jacket? I am afraid of cold.

[fabumouse]

I pulled out the Columbia jackets and shells, too, to get ready to pack. I received Disney's promotion yesterday for Alaska - and everyone was definitely in down vests and insulated long sleeve shirts for being on deck. And I'm assuming even if the pools are not open, "Ariel Vision" will show movies - and I don't think the blankets they provide will be quite enough.

Last I looked, the expected high temperature in Alaska will be 64 or so - the low, 43.

Factor in a nice ocean wind chill....:scared1:

[fabumouse]

pixiedust: to Kerri and Carol! I hope that you both get good news.

I took the girls shopping today and got their formal dresses and bathing suits for the cruise. My long underwear arrived in the mail last week. Now I need to get going on my packing list. I can't believe that we leave in less than 3 weeks to drive to Vancouver for our pre-cruise stay!

I know!! It's crazy time now. I finally got my flights and hotel in order, printed out everything, and am going through the piles of clothes to decide what to bring. Bought my husband hiking shoes for our post-trip visit to Washington, new tennis shoes for the young one... I always feel like I'm forgetting something.

Don't forget your over-the-door clear shoe holders!! :thumbsup2

[fabumouse]

Fabumouse has ANOTHER child coming!!! Congrats on their new addition.

Her name is Victoria...young female.

PLEASE add her to the Fish Extender List.

Ugh. Joey.

Yes - I am bringing Victoria, and yes she will be on the Fish Extender list. But I did not spring forth a 13 year old. :lmao:

[ratt1345]

Kerri and Carol, I hope you get to hear something today about your potential jobs. Please let us know.

I, too, am worried about clothing. In June, here in FL, it is hot and we aren't thinking about colder weather clothing!!!!:eek:
Can't wait. 18 days and we will be on a plane to Vancouver!!!:cool1:

Charlie

[mousemom11]

Don't forget your over-the-door clear shoe holders!! :thumbsup2

Thanks for reminding me! It wasn't on the packing list. Also, remember your sunscreen and bug spray. Hopefully, the mosquitos won't be out en masse yet, but it's best to be prepared.

Fabumouse gave good advice about the weather and the temperatures. Definitely bring layers. I'm not even going to bother to bring shorts. Long pants and sweatshirts will be our friends on this trip. Dress from the inside out. Long underwear, shirt, long pants, sweatshirt, coat. Then you can peel layers as you warm up. Since we're driving and have the luxury of no luggage restrictions, we're bringing our winter coats, fleece jackets, and rain jackets. If I were flying, I'd bring just the fleece and rain jackets and wear them together if I needed more warmth. I'm also bringing a sweater because I tend to get cold in the dining room and theater sometimes.

3 weeks from today, we'll all be greeting each other onboard!! :cool1:

[cjborne2]

Our last trip to Anchorage was in September. We brought winter coats but the temps were between 60 and 65. I am assuming that the weather will be similar this time of year. For general day wear, I'm packing long sleeved t shirts and jeans and a zip sweatshirt. We were comfortable with the sweatshirts during the day. I did a boat ride one day and it was much colder out on the water but OK with the coat and gloves. I'm thinking if I need a fleece jacket, I'll just buy one there. I will probably do that anyway. The souvanier shops also sold winter, fleece lined jackets, really nice, for about $40. It's in the mid 90's in the Baltimore area today. I'm looking forward to the cooler climate.

[DenverVal]

I don't even bring out the long undies until temps are near zero and I anticipate being outside for extended periods. They will stay at home in my closet. I'm thinking long pants, long- and short-sleeved tops, rain jacket, fleece jacket, light gloves and a hat that covers my ears. Our temps have been similar to there recently, and that's been enough for us. My kids wear flip-flops even in the snow, so yeah, flip-flops too.

[Peggy Jean]

JUST 3 WEEKS AWAY!!!!

I am so very excited. Sent the "kids" DD23 and DS24 the packing list. They both live out of state and I am so very happy we'll all be together for this trip. I haven't seen my son since Christmas!!

We'll be flying into Seattle on the 20th, (2 of us had free flights on SWA and we're flying in from 3 different airports!), we'll stay in a hotel near the airport, then early on the 21st we're on the Quick Shuttle and arriving at Canada Place by 11:30 am. This was cheaper than having to check 2 bags each on another airline, and since we would be flying in to either Seattle or Vancouver at least a day in advance, nothing lost there.

We did get moved to Main Seating, and coming from the east, that is very helpful. We have inside cabins, wish we could do the verandah, but honestly, I am just so happy to be on the cruise, walking and viewing from the decks will be great too.

We booked a whale watching, a suspension bridge, and a glacier float.

Again, I cannot wait, I'm about ready to pull out the suitcases.

C'mon 3 weeks, Let's go!!!

[kveens]

How ironic that a few of you mention bringing your Columbia Sportswear jackets. That is who I interviewed with and who I was hoping to go to work for. Just got the call about an hour ago that they went with a different candidate. Oh well, must not have been meant to be. Now I have more time to finish up the fish extender gifts and all the end of the school year activities with the kids.

Carol, I hope your news is better!

[PPFQP]

How ironic that a few of you mention bringing your Columbia Sportswear jackets. That is who I interviewed with and who I was hoping to go to work for. Just got the call about an hour ago that they went with a different candidate. Oh well, must not have been meant to be. Now I have more time to finish up the fish extender gifts and all the end of the school year activities with the kids.

Carol, I hope your news is better!
Darn - wish you'd gotten better news. But I'm sure there is a better opportunity out there waiting for you - I will keep my fingers crossed that you get the good news sooner rather than later!

[ilovepumba]

How ironic that a few of you mention bringing your Columbia Sportswear jackets. That is who I interviewed with and who I was hoping to go to work for. Just got the call about an hour ago that they went with a different candidate. Oh well, must not have been meant to be. Now I have more time to finish up the fish extender gifts and all the end of the school year activities with the kids.

Carol, I hope your news is better!


Kerri- I am so sorry you didn't get that job! I'm praying something better will come your way! I know jalapeno peanut brittle is in your future!!:)

[carolmb]

How ironic that a few of you mention bringing your Columbia Sportswear jackets. That is who I interviewed with and who I was hoping to go to work for. Just got the call about an hour ago that they went with a different candidate. Oh well, must not have been meant to be. Now I have more time to finish up the fish extender gifts and all the end of the school year activities with the kids.

Carol, I hope your news is better!

Sorry to hear about the job...no job for me either :sad2:. I guess it was just not in the cards. Thanks for all of the pixie dust though. This just means that there is something better out there for us and we have this WONDERful cruise to look forward to :goodvibes.

As far as packing goes it is to early...I am one of those last minute packers anyway. I think I will pack like I did for the Baltic cruise we did last summer...long pants and a jacket. Have to bring the shorts and flip-flops though which is my DD choice of style. I am hoping I can get her in dress for dinner at least. Looking forward to meeting everyone soon :woohoo:

[mousemom11]

Darn it. So sorry to hear your news Kerri and Carol. To quote Scarlett O'Hara, when God closes a door, somewhere he opens a window. Let's hope that your window opens soon!

[ratt1345]

Kerri, I am so sorry. Well, that must mean there is a better job out there for you.

Charlie

[carolmb]

Darn it. So sorry to hear your news Kerri and Carol. To quote Scarlett O'Hara, when God closes a door, somewhere he opens a window. Let's hope that your window opens soon!

Thanks :goodvibes

[PPFQP]

Don't forget your over-the-door clear shoe holders!! :thumbsup2

Yikes - I have to find mine! I packed it away after the last cruise. It sure does come in handy.
We have 2 staterooms this time, so I may need to get another one.

[jodeja]

Last I looked, the expected high temperature in Alaska will be 64 or so - the low, 43.

Factor in a nice ocean wind chill....:scared1:

Sounds like summer weather on the Oregon coast! :cool1:

Darn it. So sorry to hear your news Kerri and Carol. To quote Scarlett O'Hara, when God closes a door, somewhere he opens a window. Let's hope that your window opens soon!

Kerri and Carol, so sorry that you did not get hte news you were hoping for. :hug:

[ilovepumba]

Sorry to hear about the job...no job for me either :sad2:. I guess it was just not in the cards. Thanks for all of the pixie dust though. This just means that there is something better out there for us and we have this WONDERful cruise to look forward to :goodvibes.

As far as packing goes it is to early...I am one of those last minute packers anyway. I think I will pack like I did for the Baltic cruise we did last summer...long pants and a jacket. Have to bring the shorts and flip-flops though which is my DD choice of style. I am hoping I can get her in dress for dinner at least. Looking forward to meeting everyone soon :woohoo:

I am so sorry you didn't get the job! We will just have to make sure this is the most WONDERfulest cruise for you!!:)

[kveens]

Thanks for all of the well wishes. I know this will be the trip I have been dreaming of for years. And I can't wait to meet you all. Key rings with ribbons are finished, but I still have FE gifts to craft for the additional people who we added recently. I will also be creating a map for the FE participants, hoping not a lot of folks upgrade or DCL decides to change room assignments.

See you all in 20 more days!

Kerri

[Ginamarie]

Sorry that neither of your job opportunities came through this week guys!


We will have to celebrate this cruise to the fullest!

[cjborne2]

I have a question about the over the door shoe hangers. Do you them to store toiletries and such? I know that a lot of people recommend them but wasn't sure why. Do they really make that much of an organizational difference?

[DenverVal]

We use them to corral everything, not just bathroom necessities, and keep the tables, counters and floor clear for our stateroom host to be able to effectively clean. It works for us. My family is messy. I left it at home one trip, and my family was unhappy with me.

[Ginamarie]

I have a question about the over the door shoe hangers. Do you them to store toiletries and such? I know that a lot of people recommend them but wasn't sure why. Do they really make that much of an organizational difference?

We use them for toiletries and some random other odds and sods. I've actually found that the DCL cabins have pretty sufficient shelf space, so they're less necessary than I've found on other cruiselines. On one cruise, our bathroom was so tiny that the shoe hanger was a godsend. I do find it useful to keep certain items up high and in no danger of falling off a shelf in rough waters (away from our young children) like razors and pills.

[ilovepumba]

After spending the morning at my DD 's soccer game in the 100 degree heat I am ready some cool Alaskan weather!!! :cheer2: Everybody getting ready??? Joanne

[Ginamarie]

After spending the morning at my DD 's soccer game in the 100 degree heat I am ready some cool Alaskan weather!!! :cheer2: Everybody getting ready??? Joanne

That sounds brutal :(

I'm packing today!

[Boutilier]

I can't believe we leave for Vancouver in 2 weeks from today! I have been recovering from my 4th surgery this year and am so looking forward to something fun! This will be our first cruise and our kids still don't know we are doing it. I just booked the KFO for Thanksgiving week (and my birthday) on the Wonder and we have been doing some "early" shopping for that cruise. Sure hope the formal dress I bought my daughter fits in November! We are renting a car and driving to Whistler for Father's Day weekend. I am going to start packing this weekend too. Unfortunately, most of my nice clothes don't fit well post surgery so I guess I'll have to do a little shopping!

[kkliesing]

Getting the luggage out and will start packing next week. Have to make a
trip to Fredericksburg,Tx next week to pick up grandson. Can't wait to get to cooler weather in Alaska.

[cjborne2]

Thanks for the door hanger input. We were on the wonder once before. My husband travels with a service dog and we were "upgraded" to a handicapped room the last time. The room was huge. Disney knows about the dog for this trip but we do not know yet whether or not we will have the handicapped room again. We didn't have a problem keeping our stuff together, but I'm wondering if it would be worth the purchase this time.

I'm also having a problem finding the magnetic printable sheets for door decorations. Staples and Office Depot didn't have them. Does anyone now if they are available at target or walmart? I haven't checked there yet. I used bulldog type clips last time that worked well, but I want to do a few things this time that those clips wouldn't work well for.

[mousemom11]

Thanks for the door hanger input. We were on the wonder once before. My husband travels with a service dog and we were "upgraded" to a handicapped room the last time. The room was huge. Disney knows about the dog for this trip but we do not know yet whether or not we will have the handicapped room again. We didn't have a problem keeping our stuff together, but I'm wondering if it would be worth the purchase this time.

I'm also having a problem finding the magnetic printable sheets for door decorations. Staples and Office Depot didn't have them. Does anyone now if they are available at target or walmart? I haven't checked there yet. I used bulldog type clips last time that worked well, but I want to do a few things this time that those clips wouldn't work well for.

I use the OTD shoe hanger to corral all those things that you usually grab on the way out of the room and/or that can easily get lost if they're put down somewhere in the room. Things like KTTW cards, sunglasses, sunblock, binoculars, etc.

I just bought magnetic paper at Office Max today. I googled Avery Magnet Sheets and came up with a lot of different locations, including Walmart and Amazon. I'm headed to my BFF's tomorrow to make our door magnets.

[ratt1345]

For those of us having some brutal upper 90s to 100s, I just checked the 10 days forecast for Juneau...highs in the upper 50s to lower 60s. Can we say natural A/C?!?!?:lmao:

Boutilier, hope your recovery is going well.

Charlie

[kkliesing]

Weather man just said it was 105 degrees in Houton today - dreaming of
Alaska in two weeks..........

[DenverVal]

It's a little hard to imagine 50s and 60s right now. We're in the 90s.

[D23mom]

can't believe only 2 weeks till I fly to Vancouver. Already starting the kid excitement of not being able to sleep. Suitcase is out now, starting to put together the list of what to put in it.

Sorry you didn't get the jobs you interviewed for. Pixie dust to you that something that fits what you need in your life comes along soon.

[ratt1345]

Hi all, I had write this. I have known about this cruise for a year and a half, but this just happened. I was sitting here at work and I looked up like a deer in the headlights. It hit me that a week from Saturday, we fly out of Orlando to Vancouver. Now I am going to drive DW crazy for the next 11 days!!!

Just checked weather.com and the high for Juneau today will be 58. In contrast, the high here in north FL will be 95!!! I can't wait!!!!:love:

Charlie

[mousemom11]

Here are 3 of our door magnets that my BFF and I made yesterday. She is amazingly creative and I will be getting her some really nice Alaska souvenirs as a thank you for her help. :worship:

My personal favorite -
http://inlinethumb03.webshots.com/48834/2193065340031912139S600x600Q85.jpg (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2193065340031912139hpPbMn)

http://inlinethumb12.webshots.com/46667/2664373810031912139S600x600Q85.jpg (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2664373810031912139ZwAcPn)

http://inlinethumb11.webshots.com/47114/2097008910031912139S600x600Q85.jpg (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2097008910031912139YUFoWe)

[Boutilier]

Boutilier, hope your recovery is going well.

Charlie[/QUOTE]

Thanks!! So far so good! Looks like I won't be able to mix alcohol with my meds so it's the non-alcoholic drink of the day for me!! As much as I was looking forward to relaxing with an adult beverage, I am just happy to be on the cruise at all!!

This past weekend we had lots of rain in the bay area. Unusual for this time of year - we are typically in the 90's by now.

Those magnets look great!! Wish I had more time to be creative.

[cjborne2]

Love the one with the polar bear! I found magnetic sheets this morning and have started printing some out too. I just have some ears for around the door numbers and some of our favorite characters. Nothing super fancy.

[ilovepumba]

Becky, your door magnets are fabulous!
Charlie, we too have had this cruise booked forever. I feel the same way: the cruise is almost here and I better get going! Aren't we lucky to have such a problem! See everyone soon! Joanne

[kveens]

Finished stuffing 65 gift bags for FE exchange today. Hoping I can fit them all into one tote bag. Good thing we are driving instead of flying. I still have to finish 5 cabins' worth of a separate cabin gift, but am feeling on the downhill side and know I can get it done.

I still need to get my kids organized for packing yet. They are in school until the 17th and have a lot of year end activities coming up, so we are running around a lot these days. Hard to believe we sail in two weeks!

Here in Portland, we have only had two 80 degree days, and they were both this past weekend, Sunday being overcast and humid. I don't think we are going to have to adjust much to Alaska weather. We have had the coolest and wettest spring on record, so we may actually see more sun in Alaska than we have seen in Oregon this year! I am hoping so, anyway. :thumbsup2

[mousemom11]

Here in Portland, we have only had two 80 degree days, and they were both this past weekend, Sunday being overcast and humid. I don't think we are going to have to adjust much to Alaska weather. We have had the coolest and wettest spring on record, so we may actually see more sun in Alaska than we have seen in Oregon this year! I am hoping so, anyway. :thumbsup2

Same here in the Seattle area. I've started checking the 10-day forecasts on weather.com every day. It's looking good towards the end of next week in Vancouver so far. Alaska is showing rain next week, so let's hope we see sun the following week!

[fabumouse]

Here are 3 of our door magnets that my BFF and I made yesterday. She is amazingly creative and I will be getting her some really nice Alaska souvenirs as a thank you for her help. :worship:


Those are awesome!!!!! :cool1:

[fabumouse]

For those of us having some brutal upper 90s to 100s, I just checked the 10 days forecast for Juneau...highs in the upper 50s to lower 60s. Can we say natural A/C?!?!?:lmao:


Charlie

Ha! I still think I'm going to miss my swimming pool. ;)

[fabumouse]

Yikes - I have to find mine! I packed it away after the last cruise. It sure does come in handy.
We have 2 staterooms this time, so I may need to get another one.

We have 2 staterooms, too - and in a last minute panic, I ordered another shoe holder. C'mon Target!!:yay:

[fabumouse]

We use them for toiletries and some random other odds and sods. I've actually found that the DCL cabins have pretty sufficient shelf space, so they're less necessary than I've found on other cruiselines.

Oh, GM, you are so wrong! ;)

The clear shoe holders are a life-saver, no matter the size of your cabin. We put sunglasses, bugspray, pirate tattoos and favors, pens, keycards, coffee cards, bandaids, stain-sticks, glo-sticks..

We've filled ours up every single cruise, b/c there is all that little stuff that gets lost in drawers.

It's by FAR the best cruise suggestion I have ever had on these threads. :thumbsup2

[tinkerfun]

So we had rain in the San Francisco Bay area this past week, but there was no rain at Disneyland, where I took my Girl Scout Troop!!! Five 16yo girls and my co-leader and I. Four full days in the park! Everyone had a great time and I am so ready for the cruise now....well, not ready, as in packed! Tonight is my son's 8th grade graduation and then his party this weekend and THEN I can start packing!!! Looking forward to it! Enjoyed reading about everyone's excitement!
Julie, Redwood City, CA

[DenverVal]

I am single digit dancing today! Leaving in nine days!

[jennypenny]

HELP!!

OK, So we booked the cruise in September. And I signed up for the FEs months ago. But my DS has health issues and has had a rough spring. We thought we'd have to cancel. Last week his docs said he could go, but then I got really sick (thought I had pneumonia) and I've been in bed a week.

So, we leave next Saturday for Vancouver and I've done NOTHING. I have some things booked. And I did buy raincoats for everyone. But that's it. I had so many things I wanted to do to get ready. I'm a disboard disney junkie who usually overplans for trips. I cry every time I think about all of the things I won't get to.

Can you all help me? Where is the list of final FE participants? Where's a good place to buy stuff to make (fast) FEs? Are you all going to be mad if I buy gifts instead of make them? Did someone plan a meet? Are we supposed to bring anything to the meet?

OMG I'm completely stressed out. At least my boys had suits already. I don't even own a dress that fits (I lost a lot of weight this year) so I'll have to fake it for dinners in dress slacks and sweaters. I have no time to shop now. Plus I'm still really sick and not supposed to get out of bed until Monday (docs orders).

What else am I forgetting?? I wish my doctor had prescribed valium instead of antibiotics!!

[DenverVal]

HELP!!
...OMG I'm completely stressed out. At least my boys had suits already. I don't even own a dress that fits (I lost a lot of weight this year) so I'll have to fake it for dinners in dress slacks and sweaters. I have no time to shop now. Plus I'm still really sick and not supposed to get out of bed until Monday (docs orders).

What else am I forgetting?? I wish my doctor had proscribed valium instead of antibiotics!!
It sounds like you have something similar to what I had a few months ago; I haven't been that sick in years. I was out of work for a week. I tried to come back and my boss sent me home again. I didn't really feel better until weeks later. I hope you recover faster.

Take a breath (not too deep, don't want to set off a coughing fit). I think everyone will understand if you back out of the FE list. Take a few hours instead and hit Penney's or Macy's or whatever is in your area and see if you can find one dress. If you've lost dress sizes, you deserve a new dress and a shipboard photo in that dress showing off your accomplishment. It can be worn for both dress-up nights and for Palo, if you have that booked.

Here's a packing list; have your family help gather the necessary items and help you pack. You'll have to customize it for your family and situation, but it's a place to start. Number one priority is to take care of yourself, don't push too hard or you'll relapse.

Average high temps 61-69/Average low temps 48-52

Casual Clothing (10 days; laundry on Tracy Arm day)
6 outfits: jeans / tops
2 dining room outfits (re-wear)
belt
6 ea undies
2 ea bras
1 ea swimsuit / coverup
1 ea flipflops
Palo outfit, accessories, jewelry
Formal outfit, accessories
Semi-formal outfit, accessories
1 ea PJs
jacket
rain jacket
close-toed shoes / 6 pr socks
shoes for dining room
formal shoes

Toiletries
over-the-door shoe hanger
shampoo / conditioner
soap / bath puff in ziplock
razors
shaving cream
deodorant
4 toothbrushes
toothpaste / floss
brush / comb
curling iron/straightener
clips / bobby pins / hair ties
earplugs
tissues
nail clippers
retainer / case
popup hamper
shout wipes

Meds
Sunscreen / aloe
crystallized ginger / meclazine
allergy pills
Tylenol / ibuprofen / tums
bandaids / antibiotic ointment
glasses / case
reading glasses
contact lens solution / case
extra contact lenses

Electronics
power strip
camera / batteries / charger
waterproof camera / charger
phones / chargers
iPods / headphones / charger
GPS?

Misc. Stuff
$20 singles (tips)
airlines e-ticket receipt
Hotel confirmation+photo id
cruise docs / cruise contract / luggage tags
passports
Disney rewards card
lanyards & cardholders
water wallets
backpack/bag
hat
sunglasses
plastic grocery bags/trash bags
photo mailer (for Shutters Photos)
pins
door magnets
luggage scale
umbrellas

To do ahead of time:
Synchronize clock on all cameras
Charge all batteries
Get cash
Program GPS

[jennypenny]

Thanks for the list. There are a few things that jumped right out at me. And I added a few things that I need just for my son.

My kids really wanted to do the FEs. They are really into the trip (more so than our usual vacations). I'm not sure if it's because it's a new place and not WDW, or if it's because we've had so much happening around here this year that's it's astonishing that we can actually go on the trip :)

[jennypenny]

Casual Clothing (10 days; laundry on Tracy Arm day)
6 outfits: jeans / tops I'm bringing an under armour shirt for a warm layer for the kids
2 dining room outfits (re-wear)
belt
6 ea undies
2 ea bras
1 ea swimsuit / coverup
1 ea flipflops
Palo outfit, accessories, jewelry
Formal outfit, accessories
Semi-formal outfit, accessories
1 ea PJs we're going with 2 pj's
jacket
rain jacket
close-toed shoes / 6 pr socks
shoes for dining room
formal shoes
DH says baseball hat required for boys

Toiletries
over-the-door shoe hanger
shampoo / conditioner
soap / bath puff in ziplock
razors
shaving cream
deodorant
4 toothbrushes
toothpaste / floss
brush / comb
curling iron/straightener
clips / bobby pins / hair ties
earplugs
tissues
nail clippers
retainer / case
popup hamper we're brining 2--one for darks/one for lights to make laundry easier
shout wipes
clothes pins
dryer sheets


Meds
Sunscreen / aloe
crystallized ginger / meclazine
allergy pills
Tylenol / ibuprofen / tums getting chewable junior motrin (easier to take on excursions)
bandaids / antibiotic ointment
glasses / case
reading glasses
contact lens solution / case
extra contact lenses
we're bringing anti-itch cream for rashes/bug bites

Electronics
power strip
camera / batteries / charger
waterproof camera / charger
phones / chargers
iPods / headphones / charger
GPS?
nook/charger
clip on reading lights

Misc. Stuff
$20 singles (tips)
airlines e-ticket receipt
Hotel confirmation+photo id
cruise docs / cruise contract / luggage tags
passports
Disney rewards card
lanyards & cardholders
water wallets
backpack/bag
hat
sunglasses
plastic grocery bags/trash bags
photo mailer (for Shutters Photos)
pins
door magnets
luggage scale
umbrellas
ziplocs of all sizes (I pack our undies and such in 2 1/2 gallon ziplocs in the suitcase so TSA doesn't paw through everything if they open our bag
books

To do ahead of time:
Synchronize clock on all cameras
Charge all batteries
Get cash
Program GPS
transfer rewards money
stop mail
email itinerary to family members
let Visa and ATT know we'll be out of country so they don't flag our accounts for fraud

My additions are in red. I hope I have enough luggage :rotfl2:

[cjborne2]

I have similar lists separated by person. I swear by the pop up hamper. I leave them in the suitcases.

You might want to add pirate night accessories. i have foam hats and eye patches for the kids.

How "formal" are formal nights on Disney? Does anyone know?

[cjborne2]

Do the laundry machines need quarters or bills only? I thought about packing a roll of quarters also. Might do that anyway to make sure I have them and pennies for pressed penny machines.

[Gilland18]

I [I]think[I] that the laundry machines use your KTTW card - charges your stateroom.

[DenverVal]

Laundry facilities use the KTTW card now. Bring laundry soap. Hmmm, somehow that got removed from my list.

A friend who went on the first Alaska sailing said that there wasn't a majority of people Who dressed up for formal night or pirate night. I'm leaving the pirate stuff at home, but DH rented a tux and the girls and I are planning to dress up. It's really the only time we ever get to do it. Formal night is as dressy as you wish it to be. Your wait staff will be in tuxes. The guests will range from office wear to formal gowns and tuxes.

[mousemom11]

We leave a week from today to drive to Vancouver! :cool1: The extended forecast is showing rain for that weekend, so I've been researching some indoor alternatives for us in Vancouver.

Jenny, please take care of yourself. I hope you feel better very soon. I am sure that everyone will be understanding if you want to skip the FE or just buy FE gifts. I've lost a lot of weight this past year, too, so I went to Penneys and got a great little black dress to wear on formal night and Palo. I agree with Val, treat yourself to a new dress.

You'll get the important stuff done before the cruise and just let the rest go. The important thing is to get healthy and make some memories with your family. Sending pixie dust pixiedust: your way for rest and good health.

[carolmb]

DenverVal and jennypenny thanks for the great packing list...stealing now. This time next Friday we will be in Vancouver and DH will probably be napping like his now. I too am ready for some cooler weather. I am planning on taking DD shopping tomorrow for a couple of dinner outfits. She is my shorts and t-shirt girl. To add to pre-trip stress we got a new puppy last Thursday. DD feel in love with a little chihuahua puppy at the neighborhood vet's. So now I am trying to figure out what to do with him while we are gone. See everyone soon and happy packing.

[kveens]

THIS IS FOR ALL DISers who post anywhere on the DIS Boards and will be sailing the WONDER to Alaska on June 21st.

We will meet on Deck 10 between 3 and 3:30 on Tuesday to get a keyring with a green ribbon attached that will identify you as a DISer so you can greet fellow DISers when you see them. This is very low key.

For those who have signed up for FE, we will also meet then. Look for the slightly plump lady in the Bright Orange Oregon State T-shirt. That will be me. Jenny Penny -- Please don't feel pressured to come up with a handcrafted masterpiece. A box of movie candy per stateroom is more than welcome, or a postcard from your home locale. Make it unique to your geographic area, if possible. Hmmm, isn't Pennsylvania famous for some chocolate called Hershey's? Just an idea.

Final--Final-- Final-- FE list participants
________________________________________
FE LIST PARTICIPANTS FOR SUMMER SOLSTICE SAILAWAY -- FINAL, NO MORE ADDITIONS

1. JUSTHAT Cabin 8516
Justine adult female
Joey adult male
Maya 9 female
Madison 7 female
Henry 4 male
Scarlett baby female

2. FABUMOUSE Cabin 8546
Mychelle adult female
Aaron adult male
Victoria 13 female
Kailey 10 female
Madeleine 5 female

3. JENNYPENNY 5510, 5512
Karl adult male
Jenny adult female
Holly 15 female
Will 12 male
Jeremy 8 male

4. DCL INAUGURAL XMAS 8530
Denise adult female
Dennis adult male
Scott 20 male
Shelby 19 female
Daniel 13 male
Darrin 13 male

5. GINAMARIE Cabin 5520
Ginamarie adult female
Josh adult male
Olivia 5 female
Salvatore 2.5 male
Owen baby male

6. GINAMARIE 2 Cabin 7001
George adult male
Dawn Marie adult female
Salvatore baby male

7. GINAMARIE 3 Cabin 7509
Rosemarie adult female
Gillian adult female
Guilliette 13 female
Grant 7 male


8. RATT1345 CABIN 2112
Charlie adult male
April adult female

9. JODEJA DECK 2 Two Cabins #2075, 2077
Janell adult female
Son 12 male
Son 10 male
Grandma adult female
Grandpa adult male

10. ILOVEPUMBA CABIN 2568
Joanne adult female
Frank adult male
Blakely 10 female

11. KVEENS CABINS 7501, 7503
Kerri adult female
Steve adult male
Emily 12 female
David 12 male

12. MEERKAT504 Cabin 2614
Ron adult male
Ann adult female
Cooper nearly 3 year old male

13. MSTINSON14 Cabin 2066
Sharon adult female
Sandy adult female
Megan 14 female


14. KATHRYNDAVIS@YAHOO Cabin 5150
Kathy adult female
John adult male
Joshua - age 14 male


15. RosenFam Room 1 (#6576)
John adult male
Terry adult female

16. RosenFam Room 2 (#6645)
Joan adult female
Rob adult male

17. RosenFam Room 3 (#6571)
Corey adult male
Jenny adult female
Henry - 5 - male
Magnolia (goes by Noli) - 3 - female

18. CShaw1 Cabin 7627
Sandy Adult
Daniel 11 male

19. CShaw2 Cabin 1070
Cindy Adult
Dave Adult


Happy Packing!

Kerri

[ilovepumba]

HELP!!

OK, So we booked the cruise in September. And I signed up for the FEs months ago. But my DS has health issues and has had a rough spring. We thought we'd have to cancel. Last week his docs said he could go, but then I got really sick (thought I had pneumonia) and I've been in bed a week.

So, we leave next Saturday for Vancouver and I've done NOTHING. I have some things booked. And I did buy raincoats for everyone. But that's it. I had so many things I wanted to do to get ready. I'm a disboard disney junkie who usually overplans for trips. I cry every time I think about all of the things I won't get to.

Can you all help me? Where is the list of final FE participants? Where's a good place to buy stuff to make (fast) FEs? Are you all going to be mad if I buy gifts instead of make them? Did someone plan a meet? Are we supposed to bring anything to the meet?

OMG I'm completely stressed out. At least my boys had suits already. I don't even own a dress that fits (I lost a lot of weight this year) so I'll have to fake it for dinners in dress slacks and sweaters. I have no time to shop now. Plus I'm still really sick and not supposed to get out of bed until Monday (docs orders).

What else am I forgetting?? I wish my doctor had prescribed valium instead of antibiotics!!

Jenny- You do what it the easiest for you! Your health comes first! Believe me I know. Just found out that I need to have my gallbladder out as soon as we get back from the cruise. Just thankful that as long as I watch what I eat then I'll be ok during the cruise. Of course watching what you eat on a cruise is not the easiest thing to do!!:rotfl2: Joanne:rotfl2:

[kveens]

Just found out that I need to have my gallbladder out as soon as we get back from the cruise. Just thankful that as long as I watch what I eat then I'll be ok during the cruise. Of course watching what you eat on a cruise is not the easiest thing to do!!:rotfl2: Joanne:rotfl2:

Oh, Joanne, too many of you are getting sick or having other complications before this fun trip. :wizard:Here is extra pixie dust for those who need it.:wizard:

Looking forward to meeting all of you in just over a week!:yay:

Kerri

[ilovepumba]

Thanks Kerri! I'm so looking forward to this cruise to relax and have fun!:banana::banana::banana: I am especially looking forward to meeting everyone! This has been so fun "chatting" with everyone. We fly into Vancouver next Saturday. We're doing the glass dome train to Whistler on Sunday. See you real soon! Joanne

[DenverVal]

?..We're doing the glass dome train to Whistler on Sunday. See you real soon! Joanne
Ooh, that sounds interesting! Care to share the link?

[mousemom11]

Thanks Kerri! I'm so looking forward to this cruise to relax and have fun!:banana::banana::banana: I am especially looking forward to meeting everyone! This has been so fun "chatting" with everyone. We fly into Vancouver next Saturday. We're doing the glass dome train to Whistler on Sunday. See you real soon! Joanne

That sounds like a lot of fun! Today, the long-range weather forecast for Vancouver is Saturday, partly cloudy 63; Sunday, showers (booo) 63; Monday, mostly sunny 65. So far, it looks like Sunday is going to be an indoor day - a good day to visit the aquarium at Stanley Park and the shops on Granville Island.

[jennypenny]

Boo to the weather on Sunday. We wanted to go to the Asian Market on Sunday night (sunday night is family night).

OK, I've been out shopping and I have FE gifts for the babies and kids, and my DH and DS had an idea for the tweens and teens so they're out now.

I'm struggling with our own FE. I don't have a working sewing maching, so I'll have to fake whatever I do. My kids wanted to use disney pillowcases like they use on Halloween, but I couldn't figure out how to make that work. I'm heading to Party City tonight. That place is good for ideas.

We're flying out Sunday morning. We plan on the science museum and chinese market on Sunday, aquarium and stanley park on Monday, and not sure on Tuesday. (I wanted to do something in the morning but DH thinks we'll wake up and just want to get on the boat).

Can't wait to meet everyone!

[ilovepumba]

Ooh, that sounds interesting! Care to share the link?

We booked it through vancouvertours.com since you can take the train one way, walk around Whistler for a few hours then take a bus back which stops at some of the sights. But you can also book directly with the train. It's rockymountaineer.com Boo hoo that rain is forcasted for Sunday. Hopefully the weather will change!

[tinkerfun]

Thanks for the weather update. Will probably hit the aquarium on Sunday. Picked up Big Bus tickets on Groupon, that was a great deal. Paid $15 each, worth $38 and for $5 more, we can upgrade to 2-day. Will probably ride that around and get off and on at stops. Check it out: http://bigbus.ca/home/

[PredzMan]

We booked it through vancouvertours.com since you can take the train one way, walk around Whistler for a few hours then take a bus back which stops at some of the sights. But you can also book directly with the train. It's rockymountaineer.com Boo hoo that rain is forcasted for Sunday. Hopefully the weather will change!

We'll be up in Whistler Saturday through Monday on the (I think) ABD package with Rocky Mountaineer. Hopefully I can hit a round of golf, and we have dinner booked at Gordon Ramsay's spot Sunday night for Father's Day!

Looking forward to seeing everyone!

Jerry and Sharon

[DenverVal]

We booked it through vancouvertours.com since you can take the train one way, walk around Whistler for a few hours then take a bus back which stops at some of the sights. But you can also book directly with the train. It's rockymountaineer.com Boo hoo that rain is forcasted for Sunday. Hopefully the weather will change!
Maybe it won't be rainy further north. You never know. Thanks for the info!

I am so excited! I went shopping with my daughter and found some pretty new clothes and some new sandals to wear with my formal/semi-formal/Palo dress. Mission accomplished! Now to resume the laundry...

[cjborne2]

To jump back to the packing list for a minute, I also read someplace else that binoculars were suggested. We have a small pair somewhere...

[DenverVal]

I agree, thanks for the suggestion!

[ratt1345]

I checked weather.com a few minutes ago and unfortunately they now are also forecasting rain for Saturday as well. However, next Tuesday when we board...sunny and 53 for the low and 65 for the high. Hope that holds!!!:thumbsup2

I am going out of my mind right now. Took out the tux and ironed the shirt and checked the pants and jacket for stains. Thankfully no stains!!!:lmao: I wish I could be home all week. I feel like I don't have enough time to prepare with having to work.:scared1: I will relax once we are on the plane on Saturday and on our way to Vancouver (via Salt Lake City).

DW and I are also anxious to actually put faces with the screen and real names!!!:thumbsup2

Charlie

[mousemom11]

I checked weather.com a few minutes ago and unfortunately they now are also forecasting rain for Saturday as well. However, next Tuesday when we board...sunny and 53 for the low and 65 for the high. Hope that holds!!!:thumbsup2

Ah well, as I tell my girls, we are Northwest women and we're not about to let some rain get in our way. Sounds like our rain coats may get a bit of a workout on this trip. ;)

[Ginamarie]

Oh, GM, you are so wrong! ;)

The clear shoe holders are a life-saver, no matter the size of your cabin. We put sunglasses, bugspray, pirate tattoos and favors, pens, keycards, coffee cards, bandaids, stain-sticks, glo-sticks..

We've filled ours up every single cruise, b/c there is all that little stuff that gets lost in drawers.

It's by FAR the best cruise suggestion I have ever had on these threads. :thumbsup2

I'm not disputing that they're totally useful, just saying that I've needed them even MORE on other cruiselines. Josh and I had a cabin so tiny one time that there was barely enough room for one person to stand in the bathroom, and the shower was literally a curtain that barely wrapped around one person. It was actually a great cruise but ITTY BITTY bathroom and a tiny cabin.


I'm ALMOST packed now. I have a few things left to put into the luggage and still have to pack the carry on bags, but otherwise I'm just about ready. We made three separate FE gifts (one for each cabin my family has), and those are packed too. Now I just have to get all of my work done in the next three days before we leave. We're headed to Seattle on Thursday morning.

:banana::banana::banana::thumbsup2:cool1:

[jennypenny]

OK, it's Monday and I'm still sick. BOO! I'm going back to the doctor today. She said she'd put me on Levaquin if I didn't get better, but I run and I'm afraid to do the Levaquin. But I don't want to be sick on vacation either.

We finished up the FEs this weekend. Our FEs are probably the cheapest/crappiest ever, but my kids liked making them (I was too tired) so they got done. And hubby and the kids did the gifts.

I'm not packed yet, but I've started the pile ;). I'm still trying to get through all of the laundry that backed up when I was sick. I have some more questions...

What kind of PJs are you bringing? winter? summer? a mix? I'm wondering how cool the room will be (my kids usually take their flannel pants to disney even in the summer because the AC can be brutal).
Are you bringing gloves and hats (not baseball)? The weather looks fairly warm for Alaska next week.
How many shoes are you bringing? My pile of shoes is really large :).
Do you bring an evening bag for dinner? or just use your regular handbag? Or no handbag at dinner?

[PPFQP]

I'm not packed yet, but I've started the pile ;). I'm still trying to get through all of the laundry that backed up when I was sick. I have some more questions...

Same here -- only the pile only exists in my mind so far! I will do some actual assembling this week.

Are you bringing gloves and hats (not baseball)? The weather looks fairly warm for Alaska next week.

Yes gloves and hats. I figure that it doesn't hurt to have them. I bet we won't need them, but if we do, I will be glad we brought them along. We have one excursion day where we are outside most of the day, and if it is chilly that day, we will want them.

How many shoes are you bringing? My pile of shoes is really large :).

Ugh, this is my downfall!!! I am still having so much deliberation about shoes. My "winter" shoes are packed away and I don't want to drag them out. By March, I am in flip flops and sandals full-time! I have gone shoe shopping twice and each time have come home with more sandals and still no progress on "Alaska" shoes! I am thinking I may just do sneakers for port/excursions. But it is the dressier shoes that I am more confused about - what to wear to dinner??!? All my dressy shoes are sandals.

Do you bring an evening bag for dinner? or just use your regular handbag? Or no handbag at dinner?

No bag for me - usually all I carry around is my KTTW card and dh just keeps it is in his pocket for me.

[ilovepumba]

I am also having the "shoe" problem. :confused3. All my dressy shoes are sandals. Surely inside they will be ok?????

[ilovepumba]

Jenny, we will love your fe gifts especially since your kids did them!:thumbsup2
You just worry about you! :) joanne

[PPFQP]

I am also having the "shoe" problem. :confused3. All my dressy shoes are sandals. Surely inside they will be ok?????

That's what I'm hoping! And if not, I will just change back into something warmer after dinner.

[mstinson14]

We finished up the FEs this weekend. Our FEs are probably the cheapest/crappiest ever, but my kids liked making them (I was too tired) so they got done. And hubby and the kids did the gifts.

I'm sure they will be great! :thumbsup2 But our fish extender looks terrible! We had a really nice one that we had made last year and spent forever on it and my cat went and peed on it so now i have mini totebags that we are stapling together! and trying to decorate it somehow. LOL
8 days :banana:
I hope you feel better!

[jennypenny]

Jenny, we will love your fe gifts especially since your kids did them!:thumbsup2
You just worry about you! :) joanne

Thanks. We'll see what the mom's think of the gifts--hubby bought things a dad would buy for kids but maybe not a mom. We'll see. You can all shoot me if you find the gifts annoying ;)

I think I'm going with sandals inside, even for dinner. I'm a sandal girl too. And they're much smaller in the suitcase. I'm bring 2 pairs of sneakers, and then maybe 4 other pairs of sandals. Maybe 5. It will depend if my hubby is watching me pack.

[carolmb]

The weather for Saturday in Vancouver forecast 40% showers...so that means 60% of no showers. We are planning on going to the Capilino Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountian on Saturday. Then Sunday and Monday we will do the Hop On Hop Off bus. Looking forward to meeting everyone in 8 days. Time for :laundy: and packing but all I want to do is sit on the couch and watch the new puppy sleep.

[DenverVal]

I hope you get feeling better quickly, Jenny!

I am bringing cheap knit gloves that can easily get stuffed into pockets if not needed. My hands get cold, and I hate that. I leaning against the hats. Maybe a headband to cover the ears.

My nice dresses don't have pockets, so I like to bring a bag large enough for my KTTW card and a camera - and a pin lanyard, because you never know what pin will jump out at you and beg to be traded for:)

I haven't given too much thought to PJs. My kids wear shorts and tank tops even in the dead of winter.

Shoes. Yes, they are my nemesis. Sneakers, dress sandals, flip flops. I may have to suck it up and wear heels to dinner every night.

[n8tivecaligirl]

I hope I'm packed! We leave for Minneapolis in the morning an wont be back until sunday to head out to vancouver on monday! SO EXCITED but the packing has been a challenge as we are going from the cruise to Wrightsville Beach, NC for my BF's family reunion. So 10+ days of clothes is gonna be "fun" to lug around. Beach clothes and Alaska Clothes don't mix too well... LOL! Can't wait to meet everyone!:cloud9::hug:

[mousemom11]

OK, it's Monday and I'm still sick. BOO! I'm going back to the doctor today. She said she'd put me on Levaquin if I didn't get better, but I run and I'm afraid to do the Levaquin. But I don't want to be sick on vacation either.

We finished up the FEs this weekend. Our FEs are probably the cheapest/crappiest ever, but my kids liked making them (I was too tired) so they got done. And hubby and the kids did the gifts.

I'm not packed yet, but I've started the pile ;). I'm still trying to get through all of the laundry that backed up when I was sick. I have some more questions...

What kind of PJs are you bringing? winter? summer? a mix? I'm wondering how cool the room will be (my kids usually take their flannel pants to disney even in the summer because the AC can be brutal).
Are you bringing gloves and hats (not baseball)? The weather looks fairly warm for Alaska next week.
How many shoes are you bringing? My pile of shoes is really large :).
Do you bring an evening bag for dinner? or just use your regular handbag? Or no handbag at dinner?

I am so sorry to hear that you are still sick :sick: I'd take whatever meds you need to feel better and worry about running later. Don't worry about the FE gifts. Sounds like your kids had fun making them, and thats what counts. Have DH pitch in and help with the laundry. You really need to rest as much as possible.

My girls are bringing their cool weather jammies with long pants and sleeves. If they get too warm, they can just put on a t-shirt. We are bringing gloves and hats just in case. Shoes are tough because they take up so much room in the suitcase. We'll each bring one pair of formal shoes, casual shoes, and athletic shoes. The girls will bring their flip flops because they are planning on swimming. I'll probably throw in a pair too in case I decide that I want to sit in the hot tub. I generally don't bring a handbag to dinner. I have my KTTW card on my lanyard and call it good.

Weather update. Now the extended forecast is calling for partly cloudy with temps in the mid-60s in Vancouver this weekend, with a few rain showers on Saturday. Let's keep our fingers crossed that this one sticks!

[Ginamarie]

shoes- I'm packing one pair of heels (more like high heeled sandals. I'm all for comfort), crocs, and my sneakers. The kids are also bringing sneakers, dress shoes and sandals.

purse- just bringing my regular sized purse, more for our time in Seattle/Vancouver than for being on the ship. On the ship, my lanyard and KTTWC are all I need!

gloves/hats- just bringing sunhats and baseball caps. We have sweatshirts and raincoats/windbreakers. I'm not worried about it being too cold for that. We're from NY and used to cool weather.

PJs- I packed medium weight pajamas. We can usually control the cabin temperature to some extent, so I'm not worried.

[PPFQP]

I hope I'm packed! We leave for Minneapolis in the morning an wont be back until sunday to head out to vancouver on monday! SO EXCITED but the packing has been a challenge as we are going from the cruise to Wrightsville Beach, NC for my BF's family reunion. So 10+ days of clothes is gonna be "fun" to lug around. Beach clothes and Alaska Clothes don't mix too well... LOL! Can't wait to meet everyone!:cloud9::hug:

wow, you will literally be from coast to coast! Have a great trip -- see you real soon!

[DenverVal]

wow, you will literally be from coast to coast! Have a great trip -- see you real soon!
Or... From sea to shining sea... :rotfl:

[jennypenny]

Good morning everyone!

OK, so I've decided to pack flannel pants for pjs for the kids. With flip flops and a sweatshirt they could head up to deck 9 for something in that without changing so it seems practical.

Oh, the shoe thing. I'm down to 6 pairs. I think I can live with that.

I'm going to dig up hats, gloves and my kids north face jackets today and wash them. Are you all wearing your raincoats on the plane? We usually wear hoodies or something soft and easy to sleep in, but I want to hit the ground running in Vancouver and it looks rainy this weekend.

My boys want to bring their blankets from their bed. I'm on the fence about this. They are in the cabin next door to us--not connecting (for the first time)--so they are a little uneasy. If it helps them sleep then I'm all for it. But it's more to pack. They are brining their little scrunch pillows on the plane in their backpacks so I don't have to pack those.

Are you bringing laundry soap? Or buying it on the ship? I usually pack it for Disney, but I'm usually not packing so many clothes. Are the washers on the ship HE now?

My list keeps getting longer!!

[cjborne2]

I am bringing soap.

You'll need another suitcase for your shoes! I think that is the worst part about traveling with dressy clothes. I am packing one pair of dress shoes (dressy sandals actually) and will make everything work around them. I am a jeans/t-shirt/sneakers kind of girl that does not like to get dressed up at all. I'm trying to pack one pair of nice shoes only for each of us. For PJs, flannel pants and Ts or light weight pant/shirt combos is what I plan on bringing. I'm just packing disposable rain ponchos since we don't have rain coats. I am bringing gloves and winter coats. I think it will be chilly on the water.

But, best of all, I found the binoculars!

I have an idea of where Yardley is. I see signs for it off of 295 when we travel to my parents' house in NJ. We are in MD and usually take 295/195 to the turnpike.

[mousemom11]

Good morning everyone!

OK, so I've decided to pack flannel pants for pjs for the kids. With flip flops and a sweatshirt they could head up to deck 9 for something in that without changing so it seems practical.

That makes sense to me. Good idea.

I'm going to dig up hats, gloves and my kids north face jackets today and wash them. Are you all wearing your raincoats on the plane? We usually wear hoodies or something soft and easy to sleep in, but I want to hit the ground running in Vancouver and it looks rainy this weekend.

My airplane strategy is to have everyone wear the bulkiest clothes and shoes that we are bringing. That saves space in the suitcases.

My boys want to bring their blankets from their bed. I'm on the fence about this. They are in the cabin next door to us--not connecting (for the first time)--so they are a little uneasy. If it helps them sleep then I'm all for it. But it's more to pack. They are brining their little scrunch pillows on the plane in their backpacks so I don't have to pack those.

Won't the blankets take up a lot of room in their suitcases? Perhaps they could find a smaller token of home to bring?

Are you bringing laundry soap? Or buying it on the ship? I usually pack it for Disney, but I'm usually not packing so many clothes. Are the washers on the ship HE now?

We bring the Purex all-in-one laundry sheets that go from the washer to the dryer. Just throw a few in a ziploc baggie and you're ready to go.

[DenverVal]

Do the kids have a carry-on bag? Maybe you could give them the choice of what they want to pack in it, and if it's the blanket instead of some other item, fine? My philosophy is "you pack it, you carry it". I can't tell you how many trips I've looked through my teens' stuff and found their favorite plush toy stuffed in the bottom.

I'm bringing laundry soap, pre-measured in ziplock baggies. Everyone will wear sneakers on the plane to save space and weight in the suitcases. Raincoats will go in the carry-ons, because we're expecting 90 degrees here. Jackets will go in an outside zipped pocket of the checked bags.

[mousemom11]

I can't tell you how many trips I've looked through my teens' stuff and found their favorite plush toy stuffed in the bottom.

:lmao: My DD's still sleep with and bring their "woobies". Although, I'm a fine one to talk. My tempurpedic pillow always goes in my carryon. :cloud9:

[kveens]

I need to find a bigger suitcase! I still have 2 sets of binoculars, a power strip, collapsible hamper and other miscellaneous to pack, and I am out of room. I am so glad we are driving. I couldn't imagine taking all this stuff through the TSA.

Still waiting to hear if I will have a job when we come back. Not saying much because I don't want to jinx it, but I think this one may work out.

Safe travels to all my DIS friends as we head for Vancouver and parts farther North!:drive::grouphug:

[mstinson14]

I haven't even started packing yet!!!! :eek: I did buy 2 new suitcases over the weekend because they are bigger than the ones we have and I figured we could put more stuff in them. I do have the kids FE gifts done though. Now I just have to work on the adults. See you all in a week! :) :yay: :wave2:

[mousemom11]

I haven't even started packing yet!!!! :eek:

Me either! 1) Because I really don't have a convenient place to stage everything, and 2) I don't want to put the cats on alert that it's almost Kitty Hotel time. :tiptoe:

[RoE_Earth_Globe]

I am so glad to hear that others have not started packing. :) After having this booked for over a year and a half, I feel like now that the cruise is here I can't get started and am totally unorganized. UGH!

[Ginamarie]

I've been so busy with work this week that I haven't caught up on my packing. I need to fit laundry/packing around my work tomorrow and we leave bright and early on Thursday morning. I KNOW I'm going to forget things at this point and I have to stop stressing and just accept it.

I haven't even looked at packing the carryon bags yet. Clothing is done, but everything else is half complete. DH has been working NONSTOP and been no help in this department at all.

:rolleyes1

[jennypenny]

I don't want to put the cats on alert that it's almost Kitty Hotel time. :tiptoe:

That's so funny. I have a pile and won't pull out the suitcases until after we take our dogs to the vet for boarding--they'll completely freak out.

I have to go in to work for my last day today (ever, actually and I'm really happy). And we're running to the orthodontist because DD15 managed to break her braces (again) and I want them fixed before we go away. DH comes home from work tomorrow night, so Friday is freak out and pack day.

We're flying Air Canada so I'm a little nervous reading about the strike, but I'm hoping it will be ok.

Don't forget the Canucks are on NBC tonight. We've been cheering for Vancouver (can't cheer for Boston if you're a Flyers fan). And they've been showing great live shots from around Vancouver during the games. It's been getting us all worked up to go. I think I'm looking forward to Vancouver more than Alaska.

[yenptan]

That makes sense to me. Good idea.

My airplane strategy is to have everyone wear the bulkiest clothes and shoes that we are bringing. That saves space in the suitcases.

We bring the Purex all-in-one laundry sheets that go from the washer to the dryer. Just throw a few in a ziploc baggie and you're ready to go.

Thank you so much for sharing your packing strategy. I areally appreciate it.
I am just now starting to pack. I need to run out to buy Purex all-in-one laundry sheets. I finally got a cheap over the door organizer as suggested by someone here. I am so glad I found this board. I have learned so much.

About the door decor, are you all decorate more "Alaska" theme or are you decorate something related to the place/city/state you come from? I am thinking decorate something from your home state is meaningful too.

[kveens]

About the door decor, are you all decorate more "Alaska" theme or are you decorate something related to the place/city/state you come from? I am thinking decorate something from your home state is meaningful too.


I am doing a bit of both Alaska and my home city magnets, plus some Disney and things that the kids are really interested in at this time (tennis, soccer, etc) Plus it is my husband's birthday the day we board, so adding in birthday magnets, too. Just have fun with your magnets. They really help with identifying your door when all the doors are white and look so similar when they are not decorated.

Don't forget to stop by deck 10 near the stack between 3 and 3:30 on Tuesday to get your lime green ribbon.

See you soon!

Kerri

[yenptan]

...Plus it is my husband's birthday the day we board, so adding in birthday magnets, too. Just have fun with your magnets.

Don't forget to stop by deck 10 near the stack between 3 and 3:30 on Tuesday to get your lime green ribbon.

See you soon!

Kerri

OMG! That is my DH's birthday too!!!!! Let me go create a birthday magnet for him.

See you all at Deck 10.

-Yen

[ratt1345]

mousemom11, that's funny you mentioned the all-in-one sheets for the washer/dryer. DW and I got some about 2 months ago. So we are set with that. DW and I started packing last night. We have 3 cats, one 11 yr old and two 1 yr olds. The younger ones were all over the suitcases. Made it a little difficult to pack!!!!:rotfl2: We have our FE ready to go. The magnets are packed. We have three of them. One is Alaska themed and one is pirate themed. Can't help ourselves!!!! I believe the third one is vacation/ship themed. As for what I am carrying on the plane and wearing...I am someone who hates to take anything on the plane. My experience has been some people, but enough to bother me, are rude with their carryons and don't pay attention to what the airline employees are telling them. With that said, I am taking a carry-on.:confused3 I know doesn't make sense. In it will be only my jacket, rain jacket and FE. Maybe a change of clothes in case the luggage gets lost.:scared1: Oh no, that never happens!!!!

Well, we are headed down to Orlando on Friday after we get out of work. Then the fun begins the next morning...getting to the airport and on the plane. One step closer to the "Mickey boat" as someone I know calls it.

Charlie

[DenverVal]

DD's retainer wire came uncemented last night, got it fixed this morning. At least it had the grace to break before we left.

My cats sit ON my suitcases and glare at me, daring me to move them. I'm considering giving them a bath, because then they'll be busy grooming themselves for hours and give them something real to be mad at me for.

Piles have been started. Choosing the clothes is always the hardest part for me. After that's done, it's just checking stuff off the list. That said, I become evil queen Val until the last suitcase is zipped up. I hate packing.

[cjborne2]

I went through the packing list on here again to compare what I have on my master list. I usually take some blank CDs on big vacations to back up pictures once I download them to the laptop if I need to clear my camera cards.

[mousemom11]

Here's the final (I hope) version of my packing list. Also, here's a link to a great tip calculator site. It shows the DCL recommended amount per person per day. You can then override the total if you think that you will tip more. Then it breaks it out between denominations. I take it with me when I go to the bank to get cash for the tips onboard. Cruise Tip Calculator (http://cruisetip.tpkeller.com/)

Cruise docs
Cash for tips
Cash for excursions
Magnets
Highlighters
Magnetic white board
camera, USB cord, extra battery, charger
Nook, USB cord, dual USB plug adaptor
Ipod & USB cord
Laptop & cord
passports
swimsuits
rashguards
formal clothes, nylons, and footwear
travel extension cord
CPAP extension cord
phone & DS chargers
hats
gloves
long underwear
underwear
socks
bras
shirts
sweatshirts
pants
jammies
slippers
jackets
rain coats
jewelry
makeup
feminine supplies
toiletries
vitamins/meds
sunscreen
baggalini
fill out luggage tags
sunglasses
reading glasses
anti-bacterial wipes
medical kit (scissors)
tweezers, nail clippers
laundry sheets
binoculars
hair dryer
pop-up hamper
safety pins
lip balm
Sea Bands
Over-the-door shoe holder
bug spray
night light

[Ginamarie]

Just a quick check in from me. I'm still ALMOST packed. I think we have everything in the bags now except the toothpaste, toothbrushes and cell phone chargers, all of which will get packed in the morning.

I think I'm more excited than the kids. I have to get them up early tomorrow in order to make it to JFK at a reasonable hour before our flight leaves. See you all soon!!!:banana:

[mousemom11]

Just a quick check in from me. I'm still ALMOST packed. I think we have everything in the bags now except the toothpaste, toothbrushes and cell phone chargers, all of which will get packed in the morning.

I think I'm more excited than the kids. I have to get them up early tomorrow in order to make it to JFK at a reasonable hour before our flight leaves. See you all soon!!!:banana:

Safe travels to you! See you onboard! :thumbsup2

[ilovepumba]

I am completely overwhelmed with packing! It's so hard to decide what to bring with the weather being who knows! I just can't wait to be on deck with an umbrella drink watching the awesome scenery!:yay::yay::yay:
See you guys on deck 10 on Tuesday! Joanne

[carolmb]

Wishing safe travels to everyone and looking forward to meeting you on the cruise! :wizard: Today will be major pack day and we leave bright and early tomorrow morning. We are now flying non-stop from Houston to Vancouver on Continental. DH and DS were flying on Air Canada but our waitlist came through on Continental. They are flying home on Air Canada so hopefully the strike will be over by then. I am hoping to keep everything to 4 or 5 checked bags. Gotta love those checked bag fees. Of course DS is packing her entourage of American Girl dolls and stuffed Disney animals.

[kveens]

Finally! :woohoo: Last day of school today, soccer tournament Friday, Sat and Sun, soccer fundraiser pancake breakfast Sat, Girl Scout event Sat, tennis lesson for boy Sat, Father's Day Sun, then we can think about loading up the minivan and hitting the road Monday.:yay: Whew! I NEED this cruise:rotfl:.

Kerri

[yenptan]

Here's the final (I hope) version of my packing list. Also,

Thank you for sharing your master packing list. I still have shopping to do. Where do you get the sea bands?

[DenverVal]

Sea bands may work for some people, but they are worthless to me. I bring candied ginger. It tastes nasty, but it works like magic.

[cjborne2]

Where do you buy candied ginger? We didn't have problems on our last cruise but I'm bringing meds just in case.

I printed out my packing list. I'm going to gather my stuff I know we won't need for the rest of the week today.

[Gilland18]

The grandkids pediatrician recommended ginger snap cookies; said they had plenty of ginger in them and taste better. :lmao:

[DenverVal]

Most things taste better than candied ginger! Myth busters did an episode on holistic motion-sickness remedies, where they blindfolded the testers, strapped them in a chair and spun them til they barfed. Ginger was the only non-pharmaceutical thing that worked on all the testers, and they did try everything! I tried it on a snorkeling excursion on a very rough day. The operator took one look at me and grabbed a bin that was filled with candied ginger and told me to take one and eat it. 5 minutes later everything was under control. I didn't feel at my best, but my lunch stayed down.

I will ask DH where he got it. I think it was at an Asian food market, but try the vitamin aisle of the grocery store or pharmacy.

The forecast for Vancouver is looking gorgeous this weekend, YAY! Juneau is looking like rain, but maybe they'll revise it as we get closer.

[mousemom11]

[Thank you for sharing your master packing list. I still have shopping to do. Where do you get the sea bands?

I bought them onboard last time we sailed. I would imagine you can get them at a drugstore, Target, Walmart, etc.

The grandkids pediatrician recommended ginger snap cookies; said they had plenty of ginger in them and taste better. :lmao:

Yum!

[cjborne2]

I wonder if GNC would sell the candied ginger. Target does sell the seabands. I bought them for our last cruise, didn't use them, and returned them.

Made good progress on the "packing" this afternoon. It was more like putting the clothes into a suitcase to get them off my bed! I need to buy two more suitcases. I'm taking one for each of us.

[jodeja]

Here's the final (I hope) version of my packing list. Also, here's a link to a great tip calculator site. It shows the DCL recommended amount per person per day. You can then override the total if you think that you will tip more. Then it breaks it out between denominations. I take it with me when I go to the bank to get cash for the tips onboard. Cruise Tip Calculator (http://cruisetip.tpkeller.com/)



Thank you for the link to the tip calculator! Since this is our first cruise I probably would not have thought to bring that much money for tips.

[jodeja]

The grandkids pediatrician recommended ginger snap cookies; said they had plenty of ginger in them and taste better. :lmao:

Adding ginger snap cookies to the shopping list! And maybe some tea with ginger in it too.
My boys and I are addicted to Tazo Passion tea, so we were already planning to bring a box of that and then order hot water from room service.
Are there ceramic mugs in the room?

[jodeja]

Finally! :woohoo: Last day of school today, soccer tournament Friday, Sat and Sun, soccer fundraiser pancake breakfast Sat, Girl Scout event Sat, tennis lesson for boy Sat, Father's Day Sun, then we can think about loading up the minivan and hitting the road Monday.:yay: Whew! I NEED this cruise:rotfl:.

Kerri

WOW - and I thought I was busy! You do need this cruise :goodvibes
Thanks for all your help with organizing the FE and the meet, and for all of your tips. Can't wait to meet you!

[jodeja]

The packing panic has really started to set in :scared1:
I am trying to stay calm, but with working every day it will come down to frantically packing all day Saturday and then we leave 7am Sunday to take Amtrak to Vancouver. My parents arrive tomorrow night, so maybe they can take the boys somewhere Saturday so I focus on packing.
I have been gathering things here and there and have a few piles, but nothing is actually in the suitcases yet. Also, need to catch up on laundry.

I was laughing a little at the shoe discussions a few pages back. In Portland, tennis shoes and Dansko clogs are probably the most common footwear you see. Most places you can wear nicer Danskos for dress up :rotfl: I have no formal clothes, people here don’t even wear formal clothing to the symphony (well, you can, but most don’t). A girlfriend brought over several outfits of hers the other night for me to try on to borrow for formal and semi-formal night, of course the one I liked best was the most casual of all of them.
Also, I didn’t get around to getting Pirate costumes together and I’m a little disappointed about that. But, we can’t expect to have everything dialed in on our first cruise.
I also didn’t get awe-inspiring FE gifts, but decided to go with practical, so hopefully they will be useful if not the cutest ever.

<Deep breath> Everything will be fine and we’ll soon be on the ship having a great time whether I remembered every little thing or not! :goodvibes

[justhat]

THIS IS FOR ALL DISers who post anywhere on the DIS Boards and will be sailing the WONDER to Alaska on June 21st.

We will meet on Deck 10 between 3 and 3:30 on Tuesday to get a keyring with a green ribbon attached that will identify you as a DISer so you can greet fellow DISers when you see them. This is very low key.

For those who have signed up for FE, we will also meet then. Look for the slightly plump lady in the Bright Orange Oregon State T-shirt. That will be me. Jenny Penny -- Please don't feel pressured to come up with a handcrafted masterpiece. A box of movie candy per stateroom is more than welcome, or a postcard from your home locale. Make it unique to your geographic area, if possible. Hmmm, isn't Pennsylvania famous for some chocolate called Hershey's? Just an idea.

Final--Final-- Final-- FE list participants
________________________________________
FE LIST PARTICIPANTS FOR SUMMER SOLSTICE SAILAWAY -- FINAL, NO MORE ADDITIONS

1. JUSTHAT Cabin 8516
Justine adult female
Joey adult male
Maya 9 female
Madison 7 female
Henry 4 male
Scarlett baby female

2. FABUMOUSE Cabin 8546
Mychelle adult female
Aaron adult male
Victoria 13 female
Kailey 10 female
Madeleine 5 female

3. JENNYPENNY 5510, 5512
Karl adult male
Jenny adult female
Holly 15 female
Will 12 male
Jeremy 8 male

4. DCL INAUGURAL XMAS 8530
Denise adult female
Dennis adult male
Scott 20 male
Shelby 19 female
Daniel 13 male
Darrin 13 male

5. GINAMARIE Cabin 5520
Ginamarie adult female
Josh adult male
Olivia 5 female
Salvatore 2.5 male
Owen baby male

6. GINAMARIE 2 Cabin 7001
George adult male
Dawn Marie adult female
Salvatore baby male

7. GINAMARIE 3 Cabin 7509
Rosemarie adult female
Gillian adult female
Guilliette 13 female
Grant 7 male


8. RATT1345 CABIN 2112
Charlie adult male
April adult female

9. JODEJA DECK 2 Two Cabins #2075, 2077
Janell adult female
Son 12 male
Son 10 male
Grandma adult female
Grandpa adult male

10. ILOVEPUMBA CABIN 2568
Joanne adult female
Frank adult male
Blakely 10 female

11. KVEENS CABINS 7501, 7503
Kerri adult female
Steve adult male
Emily 12 female
David 12 male

12. MEERKAT504 Cabin 2614
Ron adult male
Ann adult female
Cooper nearly 3 year old male

13. MSTINSON14 Cabin 2066
Sharon adult female
Sandy adult female
Megan 14 female


14. KATHRYNDAVIS@YAHOO Cabin 5150
Kathy adult female
John adult male
Joshua - age 14 male


15. RosenFam Room 1 (#6576)
John adult male
Terry adult female

16. RosenFam Room 2 (#6645)
Joan adult female
Rob adult male

17. RosenFam Room 3 (#6571)
Corey adult male
Jenny adult female
Henry - 5 - male
Magnolia (goes by Noli) - 3 - female

18. CShaw1 Cabin 7627
Sandy Adult
Daniel 11 male

19. CShaw2 Cabin 1070
Cindy Adult
Dave Adult


Happy Packing!

Kerri

I was just checking this list while making my 2nd gift and for the first time realized that there is another 5yo Henry on the ship. My son will be quite excited about that as he loves meeting other Henrys. He'll be 5yo in 6 weeks or so, so I am sure they'll meet up in the Club.


Just want to clarify that there are 19 different items I need, right? Like 19 FE gifts, I mean. Cause I see some people have 2 cabins listed, but they just want 1 item if they are listed together, right?

[yenptan]

[QUOTE=DenverVal;41500669]Most things taste better than candied ginger! Myth busters did an episode on holistic motion-sickness remedies, where they blindfolded the testers, strapped them in a chair and spun them til they barfed. Ginger was the only non-pharmaceutical thing that worked on all the testers, and they did try everything! I tried it on a snorkeling excursion on a very rough day. The operator took one look at me and grabbed a bin that was filled with candied ginger and told me to take one and eat it. 5 minutes later everything was under control. I didn't feel at my best, but my lunch stayed down.

I will ask DH where he got it. I think it was at an Asian food market, but try the vitamin aisle of the grocery store or pharmacy.
QUOTE]

Good news for me. I LOVE ginger. Yes, Asian food market should have them. I also love this Crystallized Ginger. You can get it at grocery store like H.E.B. or Wholefoods. This is real stuff, made with sliced ginger, so very fresh and good to me. I use it to make breakfast scones.

[kveens]

I
Just want to clarify that there are 19 different items I need, right? Like 19 FE gifts, I mean. Cause I see some people have 2 cabins listed, but they just want 1 item if they are listed together, right?

Yes, 19 cabins participating, but I think it is 62 individuals. I made 65 baggies, so that the server, asst server and room steward could have a goodie bag, too.

I will second or third ginger as a miracle cure for nausea.:thumbsup2 I have ginger candies I ordered online as well as crystallized ginger I got at New Seasons Market (Janell) on the spice aisle. But I think Fred Meyer or Kroger should have it in their Natural Foods section, too.

Whew! Just a few more crazed days and I can relax and enjoy!

Kerri

[ratt1345]

You can count DW and I in the packing panic mode!!!!:scared1::confused3 I am so nervous that I will forget something and that means more than one thing. We are washing one last load as I type. That has my clothes that I will wear to dinner most nights. DW and I have to work tomorrow. We don't drive to Orlando until after work which means getting to Orlando around 8pm. Our flight is around 7:15am on Saturday. I will relax when we get through security and at the gate. Basically to me, that is the hard part until we get to Vancouver. I will fully relax when we get to the hotel!!!!:cool1::thumbsup2
For those who haven't left yet, my thoughts are with you for a safe travel (however you get to Vancouver). If there's something you forget, remember you can get it in Vancouver or one of the ports.:)

See you in Vancouver and on the Wonder.

Charlie

[tinkerfun]

Just started to pack my stuff so that I can help the kids pack tomorrow. We fly out of San Francisco on Saturday.
I went out and picked up MotionEaze and ginger gum at the boat store near us. Both seem to help even if you take them after you start to feel sick. Hope they work if we need them! I took Ginger Altoids last time....quite spicy for me!

[ilovepumba]

I bought candied ginger at vitamin world last week. I'd be glad to share. You know where to find me.:) Joanne

[justhat]

Yes, 19 cabins participating, but I think it is 62 individuals. I made 65 baggies, so that the server, asst server and room steward could have a goodie bag, too.

I will second or third ginger as a miracle cure for nausea.:thumbsup2 I have ginger candies I ordered online as well as crystallized ginger I got at New Seasons Market (Janell) on the spice aisle. But I think Fred Meyer or Kroger should have it in their Natural Foods section, too.

Whew! Just a few more crazed days and I can relax and enjoy!

Kerri

I commend you for doing individual bags. That must have taken ages. I am doing stateroom gifts and that's taking me forever!

[DenverVal]

I finally have the clothes packed into space bags, so I'm dealing with a just a few bricks rather than a ton of loose clothes. I know lots of people hate them, but I've seen suitcases sitting out in the rain getting soaked through, and even if that happens, my stuff will stay dry.

I gave my cats baths tonight before I started packing. Worked like a charm - it took hours for them to dry themselves, and they didn't want to be anywhere near me tonight!

I found a pair of reading glasses in DH's suit pocket. Apparently they've been missing for 18 months....

[cjborne2]

I got a good jump on packing yesterday. I am losing today and tomorrow because of other things I need to take care of and didn't want to leave everything to Sunday since I don't know what father's day plans are yet. I think my husband just wants to chill which works for me! I will have plenty to do I'm sure.

I use spacebags sometimes too. They do make a big difference. I should pull them out again to pack the coats into since they will be bulky.

[Boutilier]

I am almost finished packing too. I have been gathering clothes for the kids and I for about 2 weeks and managed to get them all into suitcases last night. My husband went upstairs, opened his suitcase, went into his closet and had his bags packed in less then 10 minutes! I hope he grabbed clothes that match! We leave for the San Francisco airport Sat morning. I still need to make sure I have all the chargers and batteries for all the iPods, kindles, cell phones, DSis, cameras, video recorders... I think I'll need another suitcase just for the electronics!!
Looking forward to a wonderful first cruise!
Jennifer

[DenverVal]

My DH did the same thing. It's annoying.

[ratt1345]

DW and I finished packing last night rather late. We must have crashed. Neither of us remember falling asleep!!!:lmao: When we both get home from work, we will have the last minute things to do and do another check on what we did pack. DW wants to check us in for our flight as well. Just like for our wedding, can't wait for this cruise to happen so the planning and packing can be over. It takes too much out of me!!!!:headache:

Got 4 more hours of work left until vacation!!!!:worship::cool1::banana::dance3:

See everyone on Tuesday on Deck 10.

Charlie

[ilovepumba]

My DH too! Makes me wonder why I obsess with packing! Oh yeah,I'm a girl!:lmao:

[DenverVal]

Isn't it 5:00 yet? Can the clock possibly go any slower?

[jennypenny]

Hi everyone!

Well, I've printed out the last of the paperwork, and I'm closing up shop and putting the computers into the safe. Time to say...

SEE YOU IN VANCOUVER!

I can't wait to meet everyone. You've all been so helpful. I'm much more relaxed than I thought I'd be by now.

See you Tuesday!

[DenverVal]

Safe travels, Jenny! See you Tuesday!

[ratt1345]

To anyone who hasn't left yet, DW and I are in the process of doing a final check before heading to Orlando. It has been fun checking in with this thread. I will miss it. However, we will meet in a few days. And have lots of fun!!!:banana::cool1::lmao:

Charlie

[carolmb]

We are in Vancouver :cheer2:. We arrived about 12:30pm after an uneventful flight from Houston. DH is napping in hotel room as I knew he would be. I had about 3 hours of sleep last night and I should be the one napping. I finished packing by 10pm but DD misplaced her i-touch and I spent about an hour or so looking for it without success. So far the only thing I forgot to pack was DD's toothbrush. I just made our ressies for ziplining on Grouse Mountian for tomorrow afternoon. The weather here is beautiful today and tomorrow has a 50% chance of rain. So I am hoping that it is not raining where I am. I am really looking forward to Tuesday and meeting everyone. Safe travels!

[ilovepumba]

We leave for Vancouver at 6 am tomorrow. :cool1: I can't wait till we are all together on deck 10 on Tuesday! :grouphug: See ya real soon! Joanne

[mousemom11]

We're here in Vancouver! We had a leisurely drive up from Seattle and arrived around 2:30. It took us less than 5 minutes to cross the border. Love it! We're just hanging out at the hotel. DH is napping and the girls are watching Iron Chef.

We're planning on visiting the Aquarium at Stanley Park and Granville Island tomorrow.

My DH did the same pack-in-a-flash trick. I started packing last night at 7, quit at 10, and finished this morning. I love the packing cubes Val! It's so easy to move the cubes from the suitcase to the drawer. We throw all our electronics/cords/chargers into the small cubes. Great way to keep them all organized.

Can't wait to see you all on Tuesday!

[TinknCyn]

We just switched our 2010 11 night southern Christmas cruise to the 7 night Alaskan. We have always wanted to cruise to Alaska and now we are!!!! :cool1:

It will be myself (Denise), DH (Dennis), DS (Scott 20), DD (Shelby 19), twin DS (Daniel & Darrin 13), and Grandma (my mother Anita) in cabin's 7016 & 7018.

I look forward to getting to know each of you (electronically), between now and then.


We've got a large group in the same age brackets: an extended family trip:
Me (mom-Cynthia) and veteran DCL planner! Platinum finally!
Jesse (DH)
Our 3 boys: Cameron - 21, Richard - 17, Jackson - 12
Oma (my mom)
Grandma Helen (Jesse's mom)
Damian 12- our nephew
Jesse and I are in a Nav. Balcony, Oma and the kids in an outside, Grandma and Damian in an inside. This is Grandma and Damian's first cruise ever! I'm going to get them a fish extender to surprise them! They are near the back of deck 7, inside cabin.

Oma, Jackson and I did the Pacific cruise in April. I got away with it by calling it "research" :woohoo: Actually, it did help me plan what to pack, and even more important, what not to pack!

We are renting Tuxes for formal nights so I won't have to pack formal clothes or shoes for the boys! That's going to save us 1-2 bags, plus no ironing! I'm shocked I haven't done this sooner! No stress on do the boy's suits still fit, them forgetting dress socks or stealing each other's dress shoes, etc. So much easier for me!

Also, Disney didn't have binoculars or umbrellas or robes in the cabins on our Pacific cruise, so make sure you pack those!
TIP on robes, you can nab one from the spa if you have a treatment and they'll let you keep it all week, if you ask nicely :yay:

[kveens]

We've got a large group in the same age brackets: an extended family trip:
Me (mom-Cynthia) and veteran DCL planner! Platinum finally!
Jesse (DH)
Our 3 boys: Cameron - 21, Richard - 17, Jackson - 12
Oma (my mom)
Grandma Helen (Jesse's mom)
Damian 12- our nephew
Jesse and I are in a Nav. Balcony, Oma and the kids in an outside, Grandma and Damian in an inside. This is Grandma and Damian's first cruise ever! I'm going to get them a fish extender to surprise them! They are near the back of deck 7, inside cabin.

Oma, Jackson and I did the Pacific cruise in April. I got away with it by calling it "research" :woohoo: Actually, it did help me plan what to pack, and even more important, what not to pack!

We are renting Tuxes for formal nights so I won't have to pack formal clothes or shoes for the boys! That's going to save us 1-2 bags, plus no ironing! I'm shocked I haven't done this sooner! No stress on do the boy's suits still fit, them forgetting dress socks or stealing each other's dress shoes, etc. So much easier for me!

Also, Disney didn't have binoculars or umbrellas or robes in the cabins on our Pacific cruise, so make sure you pack those!
TIP on robes, you can nab one from the spa if you have a treatment and they'll let you keep it all week, if you ask nicely :yay:



Make sure you stop by on Deck 10 on Tuesday between 3 and 3:30 to get your green ribbon keyring to identify you as part of the DIS boards. See you soon!

Kerri

[PPFQP]

We're off to the airport in about an hour and a half! I'm so excited, I couldn't sleep. I hope I am not forgetting anything!

Hope to meet you all on Tuesday! We'll be the wacky family with the matching brown shirts - I always make t-shirts for us to wear when we board a cruise. Of course, I was still ironing on the designs at 10pm last night. What was I thinking? :scared1: At least it will make for cute pictures.

[Gilland18]

Ours are yellow! We leave early tomorrow. See everybody there!

[D23mom]

Sitting at San Diego airport. Flight leaves for Vancouver in about an hour. See everyone tomorrow.

[bonrea]

We leave for Vancouver at 6 am tomorrow. :cool1: I can't wait till we are all together on deck 10 on Tuesday! :grouphug: See ya real soon! Joanne

We= Andrew DH - Kim DW - & Callie DD 8
We will be in Stateroom 5639 Starboard side Aft.
We have the late seating for dinner.
Would love to meet up with someone on this cruise with DDs Callie's age for a playmate for her and some new friends for us all.

See you Tuesday morning!!! WOW we can't wait.
Flying out tomorrow morning at 6am to Vancouver for two nights. We are staying in the hotel RIGHT AT THE DOCKS!

[cjborne2]

What a great trip! We got home about one this morning. My equilibrium is off as I feel like I'm swaying and I can't believe I'm hungry! I'm sorry I never got to meet up with you but I did notice some of the green ribbons here and there.

I loved seeing the eagles. We did the train ride in Skagway, the whale watching trip in Juneau, and the salmon cannery / totem pole park in Ketchikan. I wish we would have had more time in the shops. Our tours were so long and got back close to the time we had to reboard so there was not a lot of shopping for us.

I hope you all had as much fun as we did.

[RosenFam]

what a trip!!

thank you all for such a wonderful FE experience... this was our first time participating and we had so much fun, both discovering our little surprises, and even more, sneakily delivering them! :)

there was such an abundance of generosity and creativity in this group... we are honored to have been a part of this tradition!

best wishes and happy future travels to you all!

RosenFam

Corey, Jenny, Henry and Noli
San Francisco, CA

pirate:pirate:pirate:pirate:

[DenverVal]

This was a great cruise! It was nice to be able to put faces to screen names - saw you all around the ship all the time, some more than others. My family attended three of the trivia sessions, won one and came in second on the other two. I had the entire deck 4 starboard to myself on Tracy Arm day after we turned around at the glacier. So many people missed the awesome waterfalls about an hour later! Chip and Dale and their handlers made an appearance, and we clowned around for a bit and I got a picture. I think they were enjoying the scenery and the quiet as much as me. :) We took a flightseeing trip in Ketchikan, and it was definitely one of the major highlights of the trip. Loved our tablemates - I think Disney found our doppelgangers. We were eerily similar. Now back home and have everything out of the suitcases and put away, laundry started. It's looking like I'll have to remember how to cook. I miss being pampered by the dining staff already....

[justhat]

This was a great cruise! It was nice to be able to put faces to screen names - saw you all around the ship all the time, some more than others. My family attended three of the trivia sessions, won one and came in second on the other two. I had the entire deck 4 starboard to myself on Tracy Arm day after we turned around at the glacier. So many people missed the awesome waterfalls about an hour later! Chip and Dale and their handlers made an appearance, and we clowned around for a bit and I got a picture. I think they were enjoying the scenery and the quiet as much as me. :) We took a flightseeing trip in Ketchikan, and it was definitely one of the major highlights of the trip. Loved our tablemates - I think Disney found our doppelgangers. We were eerily similar. Now back home and have everything out of the suitcases and put away, laundry started. It's looking like I'll have to remember how to cook. I miss being pampered by the dining staff already....

Which trivia did you win? We did the pirate trivia and graded the paper for the winners--was that you?

[DenverVal]

How funny is that?! You were the one with the cutie little Tinker Bell and Peter Pan? We did pirate trivia and two movie trivias. The movie trivia was actually a little tough.

[ilovepumba]

It was so nice to meet a lot of you! Thank you for the awesome fe gifts! Wasn't going through Tracy Arm just magnificent? We did the zip lining in Skagway which we loved. Did the Liarsville gold panning which was kind of hokey. The salmon was good though. We did the rainforest walk and loved it in Ketchikan. We got to feed reindeer and saw salmon swimming up the river.
We loved the cruise! Everyone on board was so nice and go out of their way to to be friendly. I'm having a hard time getting my land legs back. I had no trouble on the ship but boy am I rocking today! Hope everyone has a WONDERful rest of the summer! I'm off to do the mountains of laundry we brought back!:laundy: Joanne

[justhat]

How funny is that?! You were the one with the cutie little Tinker Bell and Peter Pan? We did pirate trivia and two movie trivias. The movie trivia was actually a little tough.

Yep! And the reason I left early while my husband finished grading was to get my oldest out of the club and changed into her Wendy costume so we could get some pictures. I didn't get any pictures on Halloween last year and since it was the little one's first Halloween I felt guilty. Luckily for me she doesn't grow very much so she still fit in it just fine!

Oh, and Ginamarie's family was at pirate trivia too, her mom, sister, and little brother, basically sitting across from you, slightly further back. Seems we had half the activity!

I'll have to tell my husband you're DISers, now he won't feel so badly that we lost. Of course, I blamed him since he stopped at the Cove Cafe and left me alone with the kids to guess the answers! ;)


Also, since I have more time now, BIG thanks to all the FE participants!! My kids (and I!) loved getting packages and even though I had an entire suitcase empty after handing out my gifts, you guys filled it right back up with all the FE stuff (and maybe some souvenirs ;) ).

Excursions: We did the Yukon White Pass Rail and Klondike Gold Dredge in Skagway and loved that. The kids especially loved it. Other than my youngest, who screamed much of the train and bus rides, the other kids never once got bored on the train and loved the whole experience. The gold panning, well, we live in Tucson where a local, hmm, amusement park of sorts has a gold panning stream. So my husband and I have gold panning down pat so we did like 6 pans for everyone in our family after they all gave up on it after a few minutes. ;)

Ketchikan we did the Saxman Village and Lumberjack show and, again, huge, huge hit. Kids loved the totem pole "hunt" and totally loved the lumberjack show and their signed blocks of wood. My son was a little disappointed that he couldn't take home the huge log he was presented with, but settled for a smaller chunk of wood after awhile.

Juneau's tour was great too. We picked the fairly generic Deluxe Tour, but everyone really enjoyed it. The Glacier Gardens stop was amazing, going into their rainforest and the flowers. Mendenhall Glacier, we hiked with the big kids (including my niece) to the waterfall and they liked that and found some neat rocks. They also loved the jr ranger activity station there. And the salmon hatchery was surprisingly interesting. We had gone to one 8 years ago on another cruise, but this one was much better, especially for the kids. They liked the touch tanks a lot, and the crab dip they had was very tasty.

Pretty great cruise overall and I can't really say I have any complaints (well, actually, I would have liked pirate dinner, but guess I'll live till the next cruise!).

[jennypenny]

OMG, I'm so tired but we made it home. Trip was great. My kids found lots of friends and that always makes the trip easier. And we ended up with great table mates so that was a bonus. (on our last cruise our table mates didn't really speak english so it was quiet at dinner)

FEs were great. Some of you are so clever. It was nice to meet everyone and feel like we had people to say hello to during the cruise. It was so fast though.

It's 3pm here and I'm still drinking coffee. And my family is actually looking at me to COOK DINNER :scared1:. I'm thinking it's "Taste of Local Pizza joint" night :rotfl2:

Back to my coffee...

[cjborne2]

I'm rocking too. I didn't feel it on the ship but have really felt it the last two days. I've been taking the bonine to help. Feeling the jetlag too as we are on the east coast. Is it time for bed yet?

[justhat]

Living in AZ was a huge perk for this cruise as we only had a 1 hour time change on board, nothing different for Vancouver!

[Ginamarie]

Glad that everyone seemed to have as much fun on this cruise as we did!

We played a ton of trivia on this cruise. We won at Disney Trivia and Cruising for Trivia early on in the cruise, but the prize was only keyrings and I was determined to get one of those WINNER lanyards! We finally won them at TV Theme Show Trivia on the last sea day. My lanyard is now hanging in my room :cool1:

We didn't get to go on any excursions for this trip, so I was glad that it was scenic in the port towns. We walked around and took pictures and did some window shopping. Skagway was particularly nice for that since they have the National Park right there with the trains (my 2 year old loved them) and there was a small playground for the kids to run around.

I'm so glad we got to see Alaska, even though I was lukewarm about taking a cold weather cruise. Now I'm recommending the itinerary to all of my friends.

Great job to everyone on the FE gifts! I still have a bag full of candy which may keep me from losing the two pounds I gained on this cruise by eating every meal like I didn't know where the next one was coming from :rotfl2: I also have some great mementos and useful items!

Now I have to figure out when/how we can afford our next cruise. :headache:

[cjborne2]

I'd like to thank you for urging me to bring a shoe holder for the door. Best $5 investment I've made in a long time.

[DenverVal]

Yep! And the reason I left early while my husband finished grading was to get my oldest out of the club and changed into her Wendy costume so we could get some pictures. I didn't get any pictures on Halloween last year and since it was the little one's first Halloween I felt guilty. Luckily for me she doesn't grow very much so she still fit in it just fine!

Oh, and Ginamarie's family was at pirate trivia too, her mom, sister, and little brother, basically sitting across from you, slightly further back. Seems we had half the activity!

I'll have to tell my husband you're DISers, now he won't feel so badly that we lost. Of course, I blamed him since he stopped at the Cove Cafe and left me alone with the kids to guess the answers! ;)
That is a picture that was predestined to be amazing! Your costumes were so, so cute. I wish I had realized who was around me. Teaming up, we would have been invincible! Muahahahahaha! My daughter was very pleased with her keyring and added her car key to it. She felt very grown up.

[kveens]

What an amazing cruise!:cloud9: I knew Alaska and the Inside Passage would be beautiful, but WOW! :love: I think the highlight for us was ziplining in Juneau. Due to budget, that was our one and only excursion, but was worth every penny. It was nice to see and wave to the DISers I recognized from our quick meet-up, and the FE gifts were awesome! We booked Mexican Riviera for Spring Break, and the new Alaska itinerary for next August. Now I just need to get a job to pay for them, :goodvibes

[tinkerfun]

Well, didn't end up making it to the meet up point, but my family had a great trip. Still swaying after 5 days, but it usually takes me about a week to stop.

We did the zip lining and Mendenhall Glacier tour in Juneau and the Disney lumber jack show in Ketchikan. Found a great internet cafe in Ketchican right off the ship and everyone caught up their e-mail and facebook. $1 for every 10 minutes. My daughter and I were on for about 18 minutes total and she just charge $1--it was at Salmon Landing, upstairs in the corner.

I won two games of Bingo, enough to cover the fee for all the times I played, and still come out a little ahead! Along with winning a few Disney Cruise baseball caps.

Our next cruise will be the Disney Wonder to the Mexican Riviera on 12/23/12.

Thanks everyone for making it it such a great and informative list to be on to prepare for the trip! Best tip was probably learning that the KTTW card works for laundry and I didn't have to lug all those quarters anymore!

Julie from Redwood City, CA

[justhat]

We're doing the Mexican Riviera next too, on 10/9/11. The itinerary doesn't thrill me and it's a super quiet DIS group, but I'm sure we'll have a good time. The excursions look pretty cool so I'm looking forward to that part a lot.

[Ginamarie]

We're doing the Mexican Riviera next too, on 10/9/11. The itinerary doesn't thrill me and it's a super quiet DIS group, but I'm sure we'll have a good time. The excursions look pretty cool so I'm looking forward to that part a lot.

I'm pretty sure the MR ports are the same or similar to the ones I visited on our PC cruises. We had a lot of fun in that area. We did a beach day excursion in Puerto Vallerta which was phenomenal- right up there with a day at Castaway Cay.

[justhat]

I'm pretty sure the MR ports are the same or similar to the ones I visited on our PC cruises. We had a lot of fun in that area. We did a beach day excursion in Puerto Vallerta which was phenomenal- right up there with a day at Castaway Cay.

Yes, that's one of our 2 stops. 2 stops was the reason for the hesitation, but we're looking at it as a ship vacation, not like other cruises.

Glad to hear you liked that, as we're looking into that excursion. Joey wants to take the big kids to do a dolphin thing in Cabo, but it either means we leave Sca in the Reef, which she is NOT a fan of!, or I have to stay with her. I'm not crazy about either option so we shall see.

[Ginamarie]

Yes, that's one of our 2 stops. 2 stops was the reason for the hesitation, but we're looking at it as a ship vacation, not like other cruises.

Glad to hear you liked that, as we're looking into that excursion. Joey wants to take the big kids to do a dolphin thing in Cabo, but it either means we leave Sca in the Reef, which she is NOT a fan of!, or I have to stay with her. I'm not crazy about either option so we shall see.

My mom and siblings did the dolphin excursion in Cabo. They really loved it, but were disappointed in the totally outrageous price of the photos. Mom said that the pictures they took were great, but basically like $30 for one photo and she couldn't bring herself to pay that much. If Joey does want to do the dolphin thing, don't feel like you'll be stuck on the ship. Cabo is one of those ports where you can get off the tender and be right in the town instantly. In fact, I'm pretty sure that you just walk from the pier to the dolphin place without getting in any kind of vehicle.

I've been to Cabo twice. The first time we did a whitewater rafting trip which is no longer available (they put up a dam on the river) and not for kids, and the second time, we took a boat ride to see the seals and the carved rock. That was good for little kids since it was a mild tour, but a little on the boring side.

The Puerto Vallerta beach tour was definitely worth the price. They had all sorts of activities included in the day and you could do as much or as little as you wanted. Gillian did yoga, a bunch of us did kayaks, and for the less adventurous, there were tubes you could just float around on. They had a nice buffet style lunch and trails you could walk along. I had no problem finding some chairs in a shady spot and the little kids loved playing in the sand. It really felt like a tropical oasis, and we were pretty sad when the time came to board the boat to leave.

As for the days at sea, hopefully they'll still have the Mexican party like they did for us. We really enjoyed that, and the characters in their Mexican outfits are so cute!

[tinkerfun]

Thanks for the pre-view on some port excursions for the Mexico cruise. I was wondering if the Paradise Beach Adventure in Puerto Vallarta would be worth it--Sounds like it is. It would be fun to meet more people on the cruise and have them join us. I wish we were traveling with more people we knew, but I know the $$ is an issue, and our next cruise will be over xmas 2012, so i know others already have xmas plans.

Any other Mexico excursions that were worth it?

[justhat]

Ginamarie, the beach excursion sounds amazing. And thanks for the Cabo info. Because of the tender I was thinking it would be rough to do anything, but if we're right in the town, then that will work out well. I just feel guilty leaving Scarlett on the ship cause she's so young and what if something happens, you know? I mean, she only says like 5 words, none of which are useful (like dog, clock, fan, pool, and uhoh), so she couldn't even tell them if she were hurt or something. Tonight she was stung by a bee and if I didn't see the bee on her hand, I wouldn't have had any idea what happened.

[RoE_Earth_Globe]

Hi everyone!

I've finally gotten through the 2700+ photos I took during our trip and have posted about 200 of those on Flickr at http://www.flickr.com/photos/hubster/sets/72157627133292574/

Sorry I didn't get to the meet. It was my parents' first cruise and they loved learning about the fish extenders and seeing the great designs on everyone's doors.

Take care!

Brian

[ilovepumba]

Brian, your pictures are spectacular!! Thanks so much for sharing! I will never get tired of seeing that beautiful blue ice! Joanne

[cjborne2]

Very nice Brian. I was a "slacker" and only took 1300 pictures.

[Ginamarie]

Ginamarie, the beach excursion sounds amazing. And thanks for the Cabo info. Because of the tender I was thinking it would be rough to do anything, but if we're right in the town, then that will work out well. I just feel guilty leaving Scarlett on the ship cause she's so young and what if something happens, you know? I mean, she only says like 5 words, none of which are useful (like dog, clock, fan, pool, and uhoh), so she couldn't even tell them if she were hurt or something. Tonight she was stung by a bee and if I didn't see the bee on her hand, I wouldn't have had any idea what happened.

That's why I was grateful that I stepped on the wasp yesterday instead of Sal. If if had been him, there would have been a lot of screaming, but he never would have communicated what actually happened.

[justhat]

Oh, could you imagine, poor baby if he had!

BTW, Olivia is so flipping cute and tiny! Gives me insight into what Scarlett will look like at 5yo, as she's 19lbs at 17 months.

[Ginamarie]

Oh, could you imagine, poor baby if he had!

BTW, Olivia is so flipping cute and tiny! Gives me insight into what Scarlett will look like at 5yo, as she's 19lbs at 17 months.

Yes, Olivia is tiny. At her 5 year appointment she was the 4th percentile for height and <3% for weight. I told the doctor that I wasn't concerned. She's healthy and she eats well. She's just little.

In contrast, Owen is already 17 lbs 13 oz! He's such a chunker.

[Lil' Grumpy]

:thumbsup2, pictures mr. globe!

would you mind if i copy a few? [ we had the prefect cruise until

the atlanta tram, where a fellow passenger was not holding on.
he flew through the air when i heard my wife screamed. he had
a baby (2/3 months old ), in his left hand. it happened so fast,
& he was panicking, that i didn't realized by catching him, my
camera was knocked out of my pocket. it had appox. 75% of
our pictures. (we also spent 3 days @ disneyland ). but i noticed
we also did some of the same excursions, including the capilano bridge.

the camera is a cheap one, and had our address on the memory
card but it hasn't been turned in. very possible it was knocked under
the tram & gone forever.

this cruise was for my wife. we kept it very slow paced except for
the shopping. :rolleyes1 . as for the cruise, i guess we did "break"
a few icebergs. it was the type of cruise, that even if you stayed in
your room & just looked out the window, you would have had a
great experience.

[RoE_Earth_Globe]

:thumbsup2, pictures mr. globe!

would you mind if i copy a few? [ we had the prefect cruise until

the atlanta tram, where a fellow passenger was not holding on.
he flew through the air when i heard my wife screamed. he had
a baby (2/3 months old ), in his left hand. it happened so fast,
& he was panicking, that i didn't realized by catching him, my
camera was knocked out of my pocket. it had appox. 75% of
our pictures. (we also spent 3 days @ disneyland ). but i noticed
we also did some of the same excursions, including the capilano bridge.

the camera is a cheap one, and had our address on the memory
card but it hasn't been turned in. very possible it was knocked under
the tram & gone forever.

this cruise was for my wife. we kept it very slow paced except for
the shopping. :rolleyes1 . as for the cruise, i guess we did "break"
a few icebergs. it was the type of cruise, that even if you stayed in
your room & just looked out the window, you would have had a
great experience.

Please feel free to download them! I'm happy to share! Make sure you use the "Actions" menu above the photo and select "All Sizes" and get the largest version. You can then right-click on the image and save it to your computer. And if there is something specific you are looking for and don't see, let me know. I only posted about 10% of what I took, so I may have something you're looking for.

Brian

[Lil' Grumpy]

thanks , so very much. :mickeyjum

we still recovering from the time changes. it seem liked we're having
more of a problem this time around. [ probably from old age. ]


...what i thought was funny , how everyone here talking about babies.
prior to the cruise, i did think icebergs could be a problem,
but never "flying" babies. he was a very big man, & i am not
as strong as i used to be. i went down on one knee, as he ended on
top of me. he was surprised but i knew how those trams can
catch you off guard. we were all tangled up, & i wasn't sure where
the baby ended up....he was still in his left hand, smiling liked
"do it again". dragging our bags out may have knocked the camera on
the tracks.

in seattle , we also did the market, went up in the needle, &
rode those ducky vehicles. [ that was fun especially going into
the lake.] i took pictures @ the markets lobsters/sea food &
them throwing the salmon around. they had a pig outside so we
took pictures posing on it & wood carvers working on the toetum pole.
[sad story.]

rode the train to vancouver- & we almost didn't go the to the capilano
suspension bridge because we were tired & it was too late for
the hotel buses. we did go, but getting back was quite a trip, getting
on the sea buses.

we went on the cruise shuttle @ 11 am. the place was packed!
once we got on the ship, both ariel & snow white were waving
@ our daughter from the balcony so she wanted pictures.
ariel was very sweet, & told our daughter..."you could be me."
did you noticed when she was doing character escorts? , she
had "sea" on her name plate? [ she was also on the panning
for gold excursion , "donald escort" during pictures. ].

the reason we take pictures when they are in character & not,
so we can give accurate feedback. because we have done multiple
cruises, we seldom do the parties...we did not attend the sail
away or the pirate parties. i only did the farewell , mostly to
interact with some of the stage actors & get some pictures
of the characters by themselves. ( we support some families
in our community going through hard times & the kids always
get a kick out of them.]

i was on top side when we left vancover [so my family could get
ready for dinner] taking pictures. we went under a big bridge
that reminded me of our 08' pc cruise. leaving port was amazing
& set the stage for the cruise.

we also took alot picture of killer whales, humpbacks ,
& dolphins- some were in groups. my wife saw one killer whale that
came out of the water during dinner. "sea-days" on this cruise
were special, because "people" were out & about with their cameras
looking for whales. there were many fancy/high dollar cameras on
this cruise. and i saw you took some outstanding whales pictures.

"deck seven." met a lady who husband had died in the past year. she went
on this cruise , because of her family wanting her too. i let her used
my binoculars as there were seals following in our wake. i think she
was glad to have come on the cruise because her husband was an
outdoor person.

we did the cars II preview and several pictures of the cardboard
poster. however, i went to sleep 5 minutes after the movie
started.

took many pictures of each port...thought the towns reflected
the frontier spirit. we did the zip line/m. glacier, the gold panning-
& the puppet show, and the boat ride into the inlet, looking
for eagles/ eagles' nests. the zip line pictures is what my
wife wanted to show her friends. did you see the stream
near the mend. glacier- it was full of salmons. [ made me drool ]
however, being on top deck when we left any port was a
good time for catching the eagles "fishing". was you able
to go anytime ?

as for tracy arm day, did you get any pictures when the ice fell
into the ocean? we had several on that little camera, as i
could "hear" the crack & tremors ...before the ice fell. what
i miss most, were the pictures from inside our room passing
another cruise ship, the water falls, and the mountains. also
some pictures on the funnel screen were pretty cool. the
brothers act were up on deck, posing for pictures & interacting.
but i never saw them after that day. tracy arm was my favorite
day!

then there were tour disneyland pictures. they re-did it's a small
world, adding puppets from the movies, liked mulan/mushu.
the little mermaid ride is cute as well as the monster inc. ride.
[ i never knew there was one but my daughter did. ] our room
@ the g. california hotel had a near prefect view.

we have taken tons of pictures of the characters over the years.
but it is pretty neat to have some in their alaska gear. one of
pre-cruise goal was to take a picture with minnie with my
daughter & her older minnie doll that she got on our 2003
christmas trip. it's the same one featured in the sam. brown 's
wdw xmas special. [ i never turn down any opportunity to
get a picture with the princesses. :rolleyes1]. we do
like watching them interact & how well they give life to
the characters. to us, it's an art form , & a show.

on occasion i saw the people here making their rounds. it reminded
me of "trick or treat", just reverse. [ they look liked they were
having a blast.

noticed i left the shopping out? this cruise was geared toward
my wife. therefore, my collection of old presidents' pictures is
now alot smaller.:laughing:

thanks so much for being so generous, :cool1:

[RoE_Earth_Globe]

Hey Grumpy,

If you PM me your address I would be happy to send you a DVD with all of our pictures (except stuff of my family). I can't imagine going through your entire trip then not having something, and I hope that some of our photos will fill the gap a bit.

Brian

[jodeja]

Hi everyone!

I've finally gotten through the 2700+ photos I took during our trip and have posted about 200 of those on Flickr at http://www.flickr.com/photos/hubster/sets/72157627133292574/

Sorry I didn't get to the meet. It was my parents' first cruise and they loved learning about the fish extenders and seeing the great designs on everyone's doors.

Take care!

Brian

LOVE your photos! Thanks for sharing the link. I have some good photos, but the colors did not come out nearly as vibrant and life-like as yours, especially of the brilliant blue ice.

What a wonderful cruise :cloud9:

Looks like we did several of the same excursions as you did too. Probably saw you but didn't know it. :)

[RoE_Earth_Globe]

LOVE your photos! Thanks for sharing the link. I have some good photos, but the colors did not come out nearly as vibrant and life-like as yours, especially of the brilliant blue ice.

What a wonderful cruise :cloud9:

Looks like we did several of the same excursions as you did too. Probably saw you but didn't know it. :)

Thanks for the kind words, Jodeja! I wish I had been able to make the DIS meet before the cruise so I could have recognized people in the group. Hopefully next time.

Take care,

Brian

[Lil' Grumpy]

:yay: so much. as soon as i can get to it!


thanks, thanks, thanks---:worship:

we're having a heck of time getting our pool out. storms!

talk to our local phot maker & he went on another line , royal c., in may.
he was disappointed & stated it rain every day. so we must have
been really lucky.

this was our first alaska cruise. oh, mine - it was everything we hoped
for. we did the first wonder cruise & it has always been our favorite.
i think it just the little things.

thanks again!

[justhat]

Yes, Olivia is tiny. At her 5 year appointment she was the 4th percentile for height and <3% for weight. I told the doctor that I wasn't concerned. She's healthy and she eats well. She's just little.

In contrast, Owen is already 17 lbs 13 oz! He's such a chunker.

I have to laugh, cause your kids are obviously getting bigger as you have them, but mine have gotten smaller! Madison's like 90th percentile in height, Henry 50th, and Scarlett, hmm, not sure, but she's small! I know she's not even on the charts for weight, height she's on there, but definitely below 50th.

Our ped was initially concerned and wanted to do bloodwork, but now she's made peace with it, thank gosh, and said she's otherwise healthy so we can leave her alone.

[Lil' Grumpy]

seldom do i break form...but, "W"ow! christmas in july!

thanks a bunch!

ps. kept your address if you don't mind. we're dvc members &
hoping we can return the favor in some special way.


..we do community projects...& help local families. and with disney's
primary mission toward family support systems, we take advantage
of our dvc stuff for them.

did i get anything out of my wife shopping? the disney bags are
great for gift wrapping & the local families/kids liked them better
than wrapping. not that i am lazy, but i do prefer the easy way!

our pool is a mess - {the equipment} so i am busy doing repair work.

makes me wish to be back on the wonder, where the pools are
somebody else responsibility. :laughing:

fyi, i agree with the others.....your pictures bring back the memories.
the only problem is...they keep saying..."let's do it again!"

[RoE_Earth_Globe]

seldom do i break form...but, "W"ow! christmas in july!

thanks a bunch!

ps. kept your address if you don't mind. we're dvc members &
hoping we can return the favor in some special way.


..we do community projects...& help local families. and with disney's
primary mission toward family support systems, we take advantage
of our dvc stuff for them.

did i get anything out of my wife shopping? the disney bags are
great for gift wrapping & the local families/kids liked them better
than wrapping. not that i am lazy, but i do prefer the easy way!

our pool is a mess - {the equipment} so i am busy doing repair work.

makes me wish to be back on the wonder, where the pools are
somebody else responsibility. :laughing:

fyi, i agree with the others.....your pictures bring back the memories.
the only problem is...they keep saying..."let's do it again!"

I'm glad the DVD arrived in one piece. Have a fantastic weekend!

Brian

[DisneyCruisin]

Hi! We got off the Wonder on 6/21 :sad1:.

My sister and brother in law stayed in Vancounver that night and got some pictures of you all backing out and sailing off:


http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp31/jendoh/IMG_1173.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp31/jendoh/IMG_1175.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp31/jendoh/IMG_1181.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp31/jendoh/IMG_1184.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp31/jendoh/IMG_1189.jpg

[DenverVal]

Oh, very cool! Thanks for sharing!

[mstinson14]

That is very cool!!