The Return of the Wizard and the Cheerful Dwarf (Jan 2010--NEW photos!) [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

Wrexie

10-03-2009, 09:34 AM

I'm going to WDW for the fourth time in January 2010! I went way back in the early 80's with my Dad, then about 10-12 years ago with my husband and stepdaughter, in January 2004 with my husband, and he and I are about to make another trip together this January!

After our 2004 Disney trip, I signed up for a Disney Rewards Visa. I'm not a huge spender but have managed to rack up enough points that I needed to put them on a rewards card or lose them. My rewards card expires at the end of 2010. So, as I told my husband, "We *have* to go to Disney World in 2010!" :rolleyes1

I like to plan ahead as much as possible and already have some pretty definite ideas about what order to do things in, restaurants, etc. but am always open to suggestions or advice on things it may not have occurred to me to consider.

The things that will be new for us this trip are staying at a Disney Resort and taking Disney transportation instead of our own car or renting a car. We're flying in and taking the Disney Magical Express. When I post my itinerary, I'd like to get some idea if the time I've allotted for getting from one park to another is realistic using Disney transportation. We love the restaurants at Epcot and plan to eat there most every night, so getting back in time for our ADR's is important! Tomorrow I can call and make our dining reservations.

Thanks to some folks in various threads on resorts, we decided to stay in the Caribbean Beach Resort. In the past we've stayed off-property at inexpensive hotels, because we couldn't justify spending a lot of money on a room we'd basically be using for sleeping only. But this trip, we have some time blocked in to just enjoy the resort.

Just a few notes about us and our vacation style:

My husband and I are empty-nesters (he has three kids from a previous marriage, the youngest of whom is a college senior) and love to travel. He's originally from Switzerland, I'm originally from North Carolina, and now we live in Indiana. On most vacations, we like to explore cities or hike in state parks/national parks/scenic wilderness areas. We love to eat well and enjoy a nice bottle of wine. We tend to travel "moderate" style, not spending a lot on fancy hotels but doing some nice dinners out. At Disney World, in the past we've tended to be at the theme parks pretty much opening to closing, and don't mind lots of walking. We love to eat in the Epcot international restaurants. We're not really thrill ride people. I love things that spin like the teacups, but ride that alone because he hates spinning. Neither one of us likes big drops, but we both can handle Space Mountain. He rode Splash Mountain without me because I don't like the drop at the end. Oddly enough, we both loved the Mission: Space and can't wait to do it again. No serious roller coasters though. We love birds and animals, and I've been known to snap a photo of an ibis or anhinga in Magic Kingdom while everyone else is taking pictures of Mickey!

I'll be posting an itinerary soon. For me, planning and anticipating is part of the fun of a trip! :yay:

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Itinerary (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33812138&postcount=2)
Shopping: Baggallini Around Town Bag (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33825982&postcount=10)
Eating Healthy at WDW (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33848738&postcount=19)
Shopping: Think Mizzi Sandals (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33913873&postcount=35)
Review: Baggallini Around Town Bag & Tattoo Plans (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34008695&postcount=47)
Photo: The Wizard and The Dwarf on Fall Break! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34021427&postcount=51)
Shopping: Chilly Jilly Wrap (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34057484&postcount=58)
The Reason to Celebrate: The 15-year Anniversary of an Interesting Meeting! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=34062402#post34062402)
Photos of Cave Trip and 2004 Disney Trip (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34137368&postcount=70)

Wrexie

10-03-2009, 10:16 AM

Ok, here's my itinerary so far. I haven't made any ADR's yet but should be able to do that tomorrow morning. When I've got the parades and such that doesn't necessarily mean I want to see them all, just copying that from the website since it might be handy to know when they are going on.

All our Hollywood Studios stuff is optional because that's our least favorite of the parks. I'd rather make sure we get to do everything we want to in the other parks, and if we happen to get over there, fine, if not, I'm ok. We've seen Fantasmic before.

How does this look so far? Will getting around to the various places be reasonable with Disney transportation or should we go for some different reservation times?

Disney World 2010 Itinerary **Updated 10/7 with more specifics!*

Saturday, January 2

9:10 AM Arrive at Orlando Airport
Check in to Caribbean Beach Resort
Lunch & recreation at resort
6:45 PM Dinner reservation: The Wave
Possible visit to Disney Boardwalk before or after dinner, drinks & sing-along at Jellyrolls?

Sunday, January 3

Epcot
Bus to Epcot (est. 12 minutes)
9:00 AM Park Opens
Do most of the Future World stuff, lunch at Sunshine Seasons
7:00 PM Dinner reservation: Bistro de Paris (Jan. 3 is the anniversary of our first date!)
9:00 PM IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth (Entertainment)
9:00 PM Park Closes

Monday, January 4

Animal Kingdom
Bus to Animal Kingdom (est. 23 minutes)
8:00 AM Extra Magic Hours (8:00 AM-9:00 AM)
9:00 AM Park Opens
Counter service lunch somewhere
3:45 PM Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Parade (Entertainment)
5:00 PM Park Closes
Bus to Epcot (est. 16 minutes)

Epcot
6:45 PM Dinner reservation: San Angel Inn
Optional: Tequila tasting at La Cava del Tequila!
Bus to DHS (est. 13 minutes)

Disney Hollywood Studios
8:00 PM Optional Extra Magic Hours (8:00 PM-11:00 PM)

Tuesday, January 5

Epcot
Bus to Epcot (est. 12 minutes)
8:00 AM Extra Magic Hours (8:00 AM-9:00 AM)
9:00 AM Park Opens
Do anything left in Future World and then World Showcase. Counter service Lunch at Japan, Norway, or China?
7:00 PM Dinner reservation: Restaurant Marrakesh
9:00 PM IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth (Entertainment)
9:00 PM Park Closes

Wednesday, January 6

Magic Kingdom
Bus to MK (est. 15 minutes)
9:00 AM Park Opens
Do Tomorrowland and Fantasyland. Lunch at Cosmic Ray's
3:00 PM Celebrate A Dream Come True Parade (Entertainment)
5:40 PM Dinner reservation: Tony's Town Square
7:00 PM "SpectroMagic" Parade (Entertainment)
8:00 PM Wishes™ Nighttime Spectacular (Entertainment)
8:00 PM Park Closes
Boat or Monorail to Polynesian Resort for drinks in Tambu Lounge

Thursday, January 7

Magic Kingdom
Bus to MK (est. 15 minutes)
8:00 AM Extra Magic Hours (8:00 AM-9:00 AM)
9:00 AM Park Opens
Do everything in MK we didn't do the day before, probably lunch at El Pirata or Pecos Bill's

Disney Hollywood Studios
6:30 Optional "Fantasmic"

Epcot
8:30 PM Dinner reservation: Le Cellier
9:00 PM Optional Extra Magic Hours (9:00 PM-12:00 AM)

Friday, January 8

Relax at resort, maybe go to Downtown Disney, depending on when we need to catch the "Magical Express"
3:42 PM Fly home!

Wrexie

10-03-2009, 01:41 PM

Ok, I'm trying to decide on buying a new bag.

Currently I have this which usually works great, however the rubber grip on the shoulder is torn:

Ameribag Healthy Back Bag (http://www.ebags.com/ameribag/healthy_back_bag_reg_micro_fiber_medium/product_detail/index.cfm?modelID=3196)

The pros:

I like being able to put lots of stuff in it and mostly, it stays comfortable. The main opening is easy to access while it's still on my shoulder, and I can open it wide for security.

The cons:

I have to keep a hand on it and my shoulder gets tired after a while, so I switch. I'd like to wear it crossbody, but that isn't comfortable. I think this bag is not intended to be worn that way. It's not terribly stylish.

So I'm considering one of the following:

Ebags Piazza Day Bag (http://www.ebags.com/ebags/piazza_day_bag/product_detail/index.cfm?modelID=94553)

Baggallini Messenger bag (http://www.ebags.com/baggallini/messenger_sling_bagg_animal_prints/product_detail/index.cfm?modelID=107714)

The Ebags one holds a little less than I'm used to but I think I could make do. I have a packable rain jacket I really like if I'm going to be in the rain for a while, but it probably wouldn't fit. On days when it's "iffy" I could probably put a poncho in this bag.

I love the giraffe print on the Baggallini one, but am not sure it would adjust enough to stay close to my petite frame as opposed to trailing behind, and don't know if I'd like having to constantly take it on and off over my head.

I know no matter what bag I get at some point my shoulder/arm/back is going to get tired. With a backpack-style purse, I'll have to be constantly taking it off and putting it in my lap for rides. I like the crossbody style, but if I carry lots of stuff, will it constantly be banging on my hip and pulling on that shoulder, as opposed to something like a backpack or the healthy back bag that distributes the weight more?

Any thoughts would be much appreciated! :)

Wrexie

10-03-2009, 09:32 PM

Ok, so I put a spiffy new title on this thread to hopefully make it sound less boring.

My husband is the wizard--tall with a beard, and regularly works magic (ok, as a choreographer, not the magic wand kind) :wizard:

Me? I'm 5'3"--maybe not dwarf short but I've always had a soft spot for dwarves. The stock character seems to be a "grumpy dwarf," but I'm more cheerful by nature, so there you go. princess:

My favorite toy is my iPhone. I notice there are a few Disney-related iPhone apps (one with a list of attractions to prioritize, one with restaurant menus, etc.) and I wonder if anybody has used one and is it worthwhile?

wigdoutdismom

10-03-2009, 10:37 PM

I'm in and going back to read!

wigdoutdismom

10-03-2009, 10:48 PM

I think your times look good and as a rule if you allow an hour travel time between parks you should be good with Disney transportation. I have a baggalini messanger in the DIS lime green but think the giraffe print is very cool. I stash that bag in our owners locker and carry it when I'm taking extra stuff into the parks like ponchos. My favorite touring bag is a Vera Bradley hipster....

I got a new iphone for my birthday in July, I was 52! It is a very fun toy.

Wrexie

10-04-2009, 06:50 AM

I got a new iphone for my birthday in July, I was 52! It is a very fun toy.

My husband got my iphone for me for my birthday. When he later asked if I liked it, I was like, "Are you kidding? If I liked it any more I'd divorce you and marry the phone!"

Thanks for reading! I just made my dinner reservation online for Jan. 2 and am waiting until the phones open up at 7:00 to see if they'll let me make ADR's for the rest of the trip.

:littleangel:crossing fingers!:littleangel:

Wrexie

10-04-2009, 07:09 AM

Boo - they won't let me make reservations past January 2 because even though I'm staying Jan. 2-8, we have a single-night reservation and then the package so we could get one night free.

Oh well, I'll call back tomorrow, though I have to be at work at 7:30 so I won't have a lot of time. I should at least be able to do the Jan. 3 online.

But we do have our ADR for The Wave at 6:45 on January 2! :yay:

Lady Lallie

10-04-2009, 09:38 AM

I'm joining in. Sounds like you have a great trip planned so far. I agree with Wigd, if you give yourself about an hour with Disney transportation you shouldn't have any problem making your ADRs on time.

That's too bad about your ADRs. But at least you got the first day taken care of!

Wrexie

10-04-2009, 05:51 PM

Ok, I decided to order this bag from Ebags:

Baggallini Around Town Bag (http://www.ebags.com/baggallini/around_town_giraffe_animal_print/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=133374)

The measurements put it at about the same size as an old Nine West bag I liked but 1 inch wider, which should give me room to cram in a rain jacket or sun hat. I was looking through some old purses I haven't carried for a while and was amazed at some of the teeny-tiny pockets barely big enough to hold anything. Then I realized this was before the invention of cell phones! I guess I need to clean out my stuff and donate to Goodwill more often. :lmao:

wigdoutdismom

10-04-2009, 06:00 PM

Wrexie

10-04-2009, 07:33 PM

Is it a shoulder bag or cross the body type?

Cross-body. One reason I'm looking to replace the Healthy Back Bag is to avoid carrying a bag on one shoulder.

wigdoutdismom

10-04-2009, 09:12 PM

I do like the cross body style myself, it can seem like you are carrying nothing at all!

Wrexie

10-05-2009, 10:42 AM

I made my ADR's this morning! I got everything I wanted, even Le Cellier, except there was some glitch with Tony's and the reservation system wasn't up yet for that date. The CM suggested calling back tonight or tomorrow.

Yippee!

wigdoutdismom

10-05-2009, 07:28 PM

That's terrific! With dining in place the rest of the trip will go like clockwork! Oh are you doing a touring plan?

Wrexie

10-05-2009, 07:41 PM

That's terrific! With dining in place the rest of the trip will go like clockwork! Oh are you doing a touring plan?

I'm not even sure what a touring plan is!

wigdoutdismom

10-05-2009, 08:11 PM

There are websites, like ridemax.com that will plan your day for more efficient touring so you can get more done. We really like ridemax!

Wrexie

10-06-2009, 10:49 AM

There are websites, like ridemax.com that will plan your day for more efficient touring so you can get more done. We really like ridemax!

Cool, I will check it out. Usually we just pick a place to start, get fastpasses for popular rides, etc. but I'm not opposed to more specific planning!

Wrexie

10-06-2009, 01:16 PM

Yay! I got the last of my ADR's made. I got in Le Cellier with no problem. The difficult one was actually Tony's Town Square. It's earlier than I would have liked, but I'm guessing since that restaurant is on Main Street, lots of people make reservations around the time of the parade and hope for a window table?

I had to convince my husband to eat dinner in MK, since he likes to have a beer or glass of wine with dinner. But I really wanted to stay and see "Wishes" one night and not feel rushed to get out of MK for dinner, so I wanted to eat in MK that night. We can always go out for a couple drinks later.

Speaking of food and drink, I've been on Weight Watchers for a little over a month now and have lost 8 pounds. I've got 8-10 more to go to reach my goal, which I hope to do before the WDW trip in January.

My goal for the trip is to enjoy the food but not overdo it and not gain any weight. I'm already thinking of some strategies and have commented in this thread that discusses healthy eating choices in the parks: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=33847756#post33847756

My current plan is to eat a Luna bar or Kashi roll (3 weight watchers points) like I usually do in the morning, look for fruit vendors for snacks, and try to keep portions small at lunch, with things like grilled chicken sandwiches minus the bun. Then at dinner, I want to be able to enjoy myself but not go too crazy. For instance, I already know I want maple creme brulee at Le Cellier. I had this dessert once in Vermont and it beats the heck out of regular creme brulee with sugar. So at that dinner I may order an appetizer as my entree and try a bite or two of my husband's steak (he likes medium rare, I like medium, so I won't be tempted to grab too much off his plate). Then we'll split the dessert.

I'm open to suggestions regarding healthy dining options in the parks, particularly for counter service lunch and snacks!

Lady Lallie

10-06-2009, 01:20 PM

Thanks for the link on the healthy eating thread! I'm going to go check it out.

WOO HOO for getting into Le Cellier, that is the only one of mine that I am worried about.

Wrexie

10-06-2009, 06:15 PM

WOO HOO for getting into Le Cellier, that is the only one of mine that I am worried about.

Crossing my fingers that you get it! I haven't been there before and wanted to try it this time.

Lady Lallie

10-06-2009, 08:36 PM

Crossing my fingers that you get it! I haven't been there before and wanted to try it this time.

It's so good! Those cream cheese mashed potatoes are like little clouds of heaven. :cloud9:

wigdoutdismom

10-06-2009, 09:20 PM

Wow, it's never occurred to me to try to eat healthy at Disney.....:scratchin

Wrexie

10-07-2009, 07:49 AM

Wow, it's never occurred to me to try to eat healthy at Disney.....:scratchin

Probably wouldn't have occurred to me until I've put all this work into getting the weight off and don't want to repeat the process if I can help it!

Last night I downloaded the free version of WDW Wait Times (http://www.versaedge.com/iphone/disneyworldwaittimes/) for my iphone. I won't be able to comment on how useful it is until I'm there, but it looks pretty straightforward and could be helpful. It uses the GPS feature so people can't just upload fake wait times for rides they're not even near. Apparently, if at least 12 people are using it to upload their own wait times, the results are pretty accurate.

Just for fun last night my husband was asking me about the wait times for various rides and I was looking them up. I think Soarin' had the longest wait!

You can pay for a version without ads, but the ads are tiny at the bottom so they're not really bothersome.

I also visited a website with a transportation wizard, which is helpful since we're using this for the first time instead of renting a car: http://www.ourlaughingplace.com/asp/twiz.aspx They have an iphone app too but I don't know if I'll get it.

We were also trying to remember what things we had missed last time, and some favorites. I love Tom Sawyer Island for a little bit of a break from MK, but can't find Aunt Polly's listed in the snack places. Is there anywhere to get a snack on the island or is the snack place closed?

I was also trying to remember which Fantasyland attraction replaced the old "Mr. Toad's Wild Ride." Winnie the Pooh, maybe?

87 days to go!!

Wrexie

10-07-2009, 08:51 PM

It's so good! Those cream cheese mashed potatoes are like little clouds of heaven. :cloud9:

Mmmmm potatoes... :cloud9:

I just updated my itinerary with a few other details, like estimated times to get around on the bus and so forth.

One thing we didn't have time for in MK last time was spend some time on Main Street, but I think some of the things I remember from when I was 11 (back in 1979) aren't there any more. I remember an old-fashioned arcade and place where you could watch clips of old movies. It was lots of fun. What is Main Street like now?

Wrexie

10-07-2009, 08:55 PM

Ok, I thought of another question for the experts. When going back to Epcot for dinner, is it better to take a bus to Disney Boardwalk and use the International Gateway entrance?

wigdoutdismom

10-07-2009, 09:24 PM

[quote]Last night I downloaded the free version of WDW Wait Times (http://www.versaedge.com/iphone/disneyworldwaittimes/) for my iphone. I won't be able to comment on how useful it is until I'm there, but it looks pretty straightforward and could be helpful.
I have that ap too, and have discovered that it's only as good as the park guests that are entering the times. Some days they aren't putting much in...

We were also trying to remember what things we had missed last time, and some favorites. I love Tom Sawyer Island for a little bit of a break from MK, but can't find Aunt Polly's listed in the snack places. Is there anywhere to get a snack on the island or is the snack place closed?
I don't remember it being opened that last few times we were there.

I was also trying to remember which Fantasyland attraction replaced the old "Mr. Toad's Wild Ride." Winnie the Pooh, maybe?
Yep, it's Pooh!

mickeystoontown

10-07-2009, 09:27 PM

Signing on now I have to go back and read!

wigdoutdismom

10-07-2009, 09:48 PM

Ok, I thought of another question for the experts. When going back to Epcot for dinner, is it better to take a bus to Disney Boardwalk and use the International Gateway entrance?
oops forgot to comment on this one....
For the closest walk get off at the Beach Club, walk through the lobby and breathe in the wonderful smell, then out the other door, when you get to the lake turn left and you will be there in a couple of minutes!

We stayed at Beach Club last summer and it was so nice to be just next door to the IG!:goodvibes

Wrexie

10-08-2009, 02:06 PM

oops forgot to comment on this one....
For the closest walk get off at the Beach Club, walk through the lobby and breathe in the wonderful smell, then out the other door, when you get to the lake turn left and you will be there in a couple of minutes!

Thanks for the tip! I'll definitely have to try that.:)

Wrexie

10-09-2009, 07:34 AM

I had my Weight Watchers weigh-in yesterday, and for the first time, hadn't lost any weight at all. I started to second-guess whether I really have it in me to lose more weight, and whether where I am now is "good enough." But then I thought about all those pants hanging in my closet I used to love and haven't been able to get into in about 3 years, and how if I can just lose a few more pounds, I can wear them again.

Then, this morning I realized I hadn't tracked my measurements, because since I hadn't lost weight I assumed I hadn't lost inches. Pulled out the tape measure and found I've lost an inch around my waist and a half inch around my hips since last week! Woohoo!

How is this relevant to Disney? :rolleyes1 Er, well I've got some clothes I would like to fit into and be able to wear on that trip. I know in January the weather can be iffy, but I've got some really cute skorts I can wear if the weather is warm enough that I would need to lose a few pounds to wear. In all the photos from my last trip, I'm wearing my absolute favorite pair of jeans, jeans now I can't get into without a struggle. So for my trip photos in January I plan to be wearing my skinny jeans!

A couple of weeks ago after I met the goal of losing 5% of my starting weight, I bought a cute halter dress that looked good on but I had no room to breathe. The salesperson told me, "we've got a pretty liberal return policy. Keep it in the closet with the tags on, and if you don't lose weight before your trip, you can always return it."

It's still in the closet with the tags on and I haven't dared to try it on again yet, but next week I plan to.

So that's probably enough rambling about my weight, but thinking about fitting into smaller clothes on this vacation is a great motivator for me!:yay:

wigdoutdismom

10-09-2009, 08:27 PM

Congrats on the loss of inches! Maybe you are firming up, and muscle weighs more than fat. I need lots more muscle!

Wrexie

10-10-2009, 11:11 AM

Congrats on the loss of inches! Maybe you are firming up, and muscle weighs more than fat. I need lots more muscle!

Thanks! I hope I'm gaining muscle, though I suspect the number was higher than my measurements would indicate because, hmm, I suppose the most delicate way to say it is I needed a little extra fiber. ;)

wigdoutdismom

10-10-2009, 11:13 AM

LOL, you are cracking me up!

Wrexie

10-11-2009, 08:09 PM

LOL, you are cracking me up!

Hehe, thanks for reading! I need to dredge up a few other readers from somewhere. ;)

I've got some new sandals for the trip! I had hoped to order them in time to wear them a bit and break them in before it got too cold, but our "Indian Summer" ended before I got them. My usual sandals are a "no go" due to not having enough arch support. I'm at the "doing everything I can to avoid knee surgery" stage so need to be good about shoes.

I happened to be in Nordstrom one day and was passing some sandals. The display model was my size in some pretty sandals by Mephisto with what appeared to be a pretty heavy-duty cork footbed with arch support, so I slipped one on. Wow! That feels great and actually does reach my rather high arch! Then I looked at the price tag. Er, not in this lifetime.

These had the closest to the same type footbed of any I saw at zappos.com that were a price I thought I could afford. It's still more than I like to pay for shoes, but I'm really determined to continue to wear sandals in sandal weather!

Think Mizzi sandals (http://www.zappos.com/think-mizzi-86353-black-nappa)

So far, wearing them around the house, they feel fabulous and supportive, without looking like orthopedic shoes. If they keep my feet happy walking around all day, the price is worth it.

Elevationist

10-11-2009, 08:35 PM

Those sandals are super-cute! Very nice find! :goodvibes

CW4DW

10-11-2009, 08:56 PM

Just found your report and have read it all the way through! Congrats on getting LeCellier - I didn't get any for my September trip, but we are planning on going back in December and I was able to get some for that trip.

I need to find a bag like the one you got - gotta check that out! And the shoes are super cute!

My mom just had both knees replaced so sorry to hear you are dealing with knee problems ~ but she is much better now that she has had them both done!

Keep the updates coming - good luck on the WW!

wigdoutdismom

10-11-2009, 09:29 PM

Super cute find on the sandals! I'm a fan of the Teva Mush flip flops, I'll probably toss a pair in, but I have a feeling it's not going to be flip flop weather. I will be watching the 10 day forecast for sure...

willonlyflytodisney

10-12-2009, 12:59 AM

Wrexie

10-12-2009, 07:11 AM

Those sandals are super-cute! Very nice find! :goodvibes

Thanks! Now I just gotta hope for sandal weather! :lmao:

Welcome to the new folks and thanks for reading! I wanted to respond to each post individually but it seems I fail at using the multi-quote function. I'll have to play with it later on when I'm not about to have to dash out the door to work!

mickeystoontown

10-12-2009, 10:04 AM

Elevationist

10-12-2009, 01:52 PM

Welcome to the new folks and thanks for reading! I wanted to respond to each post individually but it seems I fail at using the multi-quote function. I'll have to play with it later on when I'm not about to have to dash out the door to work!I know nothing of this multi-quoting that you speak of. I am just a master of cut-n-paste. :lmao:

Wrexie

10-13-2009, 01:19 PM

I'm in! :surfweb:

I'll be at the DIS the same time you will! We go the 2nd to the 10th, and I agree - HS is not at the top of our priority, but my parents are going with us this time and they need to go just to do it once.

Thanks for dropping by! I'm going to go check out your pre-trip report. Let's hope for fabulous weather in January! :wizard:

Wrexie

10-13-2009, 01:22 PM

Hey girl! I've finally caught up. You know the whole family medical drama that's been going on the last few weeks so I know you forgive me.;)

Congrats on losing inches! You will be in your "Disney" clothes before you know it.

I like those sandals. Really cute! I usually bring sandals on our trip and then never wear them. I know I probably look a fool wearing my Nike tennis shoes everyday but my feet don't hurt at the end of the day.

I hope the drama has settled down -- going to read all my subscribed threads after I post here.

I think tennis shoes look fine! My main objection is I am just not a sock wearer and usually have to be dragged kicking and screaming into the cool fall days when it's too cold for sandals. Having comfortable feet is the most important thing! Feet hurt=no fun, happy feet=fun! :yay:

Wrexie

10-13-2009, 01:27 PM

My Baggallini around-town bag came today, and it's a little smaller than I had guessed even though I measured a similar-sized bag of mine and mentally calculated the difference. But I think actually it will work great. It's got two pockets on the ends, and these will hold my iPhone in one and camera in the other. The main compartment isn't huge, but it's wide enough I think I can stuff my floppy hat or a light sweater or shawl in there. My roll-up rain jacket will definitely not fit but I'll only break that out on a day that seriously looks like rain. It comes in its own little bag with a clip, though, so if need be, I can clip it to the outside of the bag and just look dorky. Later on I'm going to pack it up with all my stuff for the park and just get a sense of how it feels to carry around.

I've been drowning in a sea of papers to grade for a college class I'm teaching this year, but Fall Break is this Thursday and Friday, so DH and I actually have two whole days off together! This is not usual for us, since I work weekends. We're spending one night in a B&B by the Ohio River and hopefully enjoying some fall leaves, though the forecast says rain. At any rate, a change of scenery will do us good.

Elevationist

10-13-2009, 01:31 PM

I think tennis shoes look fine! My main objection is I am just not a sock wearer and usually have to be dragged kicking and screaming into the cool fall days when it's too cold for sandals. Having comfortable feet is the most important thing! Feet hurt=no fun, happy feet=fun! :yay:Agreed and agreed! My objections to sneakers are the same, but ultimately comfort is priority.

This will be my first year to finally abandon the tennis shoes in favor of much preferred sandals. For me, there's few things worse than getting off of Splash Mountain or Kali River Rapids with soaked-through socks and sneakers, and then squish-squish-squishing around the park for the rest of the day. :rotfl:

Wrexie

10-19-2009, 05:16 PM

2 months and a couple of weeks to go! It seems like forever.

I carried my new Baggallini cross-body bag on an overnight trip to southern Indiana last week, and it worked very well. With my iPhone in the pocket on one side and my camera in the other, I can access either of them easily without having to dig for them. We toured a cave and I took my camera out frequently for photos, so I know it's convenient for that. There's also a zipper compartment on the back that is perfect for sunglasses. I wish the main compartment was a little roomier, but I think I'll just have to deal because if I got a much bigger bag, it wouldn't be as practical to carry cross-body and would stick out too far or drag on my shoulder too much. If I get tired of wearing a sweater, I can tie it around my waist instead of stuffing it into the bag like I used to with my Ameribag Healthy Back bag, and I can use the attached small bag and card slots as a wallet so I won't have to carry my regular wallet, freeing up some space for a sun hat and/or rain poncho.

Of course, being the obsessive planner that I am, I'm already thinking about what clothes to bring on the trip. Since I'm hoping to be 5-10 pounds lighter by then, I have to be somewhat flexible, but I'm thinking a pair of jeans, long black pants, black cropped pants, black knee length skirt, black short skort, and maybe a pair of quick-dry cargo capris can get me through whatever the weather may be. I'll bring my new black sandals and hope for sandal weather, and also my Crocs mary janes and Keen sneaker-type shoes for if my knees act up and I really need some support. Then a few tops, a couple of lightweight sweaters or jackets, and I should be good to go.

I'm meeting with a tattoo artist next month to plan a tattoo--a first for me though I've been considering it for a couple of years! I decided that would be my reward for losing 10% of my starting weight when I joined Weight Watchers. Well, I'm two pounds from that goal! I've got two possible designs in mind and need to decide. It will be on my upper back, so I'm definitely going to be in the market for some halter or tank tops to show it off while at WDW!

Seems like I was thinking of a couple of questions for folks about Disney-related stuff for when I next got around to posting (it's been a busy week), but now that I'm actually posting I can't think of a single one! Oh well, I'm sure they will come back to me later on.:yay:

wigdoutdismom

10-19-2009, 08:13 PM

What kind of tat are you getting?

Wrexie

10-19-2009, 10:08 PM

What kind of tat are you getting?

Either a crescent moon filled with little geometric triangles or a blue heron. The blue heron would be much more complicated and I don't want to get anything too large, but it's my absolute favorite bird and I want to check into options.

My stepdaughter has several tattoos so I'll probably be asking her for advice too!

wigdoutdismom

10-19-2009, 11:17 PM

Oh, I can't wait to see what you get!

Wrexie

10-20-2009, 04:28 PM

Oh, I can't wait to see what you get!

Same here! :rotfl2: I'll have to post some pics once I get it and it is all healed up.

Here is a picture of me and DH on our short fall break trip, outside Squire Boone Caverns in southern Indiana:

http://denham.virtualave.net/squireboonOct2009.JPG

I'm carrying my new Baggallini giraffe print bag I got especially for WDW!:banana:

Elevationist

10-20-2009, 07:14 PM

Here is a picture of me and DH on our short fall break trip, outside Squire Boone Caverns in southern Indiana:

I'm carrying my new Baggallini giraffe print bag I got especially for WDW!:banana:Oh! You two are just the loveliest couple! :lovestruc Thank you for sharing the photo!

And girl, that bag is SHARP! I love it, very very nice! :goodvibes

wigdoutdismom

10-20-2009, 10:51 PM

Great picture, love the bag and I think you look terrific!

Wrexie

10-21-2009, 07:38 AM

Oh! You two are just the loveliest couple! :lovestruc Thank you for sharing the photo!

And girl, that bag is SHARP! I love it, very very nice! :goodvibes

Thanks! Yeah, I really like the bag so far. Husband's not too bad either. I think I'll keep him. ;)

Wrexie

10-21-2009, 07:39 AM

Great picture, love the bag and I think you look terrific!

Thanks! It was rainy most of the day but managed to stop right as we were about to go into the cave for the tour, oddly enough!:rotfl:

mickeystoontown

10-21-2009, 12:05 PM

Wrexie

10-22-2009, 09:47 PM

I've already told you on my thread that I love the picture of you and your hubby but I'll say it again. Again, I'd love to see the pictures you took of the cavern. I really like your bag. From what you said, it sounds like it will work out just find for your Disney trip.

Thanks! Actually I haven't even looked at the cave pictures to see how they turned out--I hope I got some good ones but I never seem to get my camera set right for caves. There was a waterfall going right through the cave which was really cool!

I'm drowning under a sea of papers to grade but hoping to get caught up before the weekend so I can get out and enjoy some fall leaves.

Here's a link to a photo I'm planning to take to the tattoo artist to see if something based on this might work for a tattoo, but only if it could be done without being too huge. I need something I can cover up if need be if I'm performing!

http://www.maxwaugh.com/arb05/heron4.html

Wrexie

10-23-2009, 04:57 PM

I just ordered something online that I think will be perfect for the trip:

http://www.chillyjilly.com/images/home-large.jpg

I'd seen these in a catalog but they only had them in black or white, so I googled "Chilly Jilly" (the name of the company) and found their web site. They offer several more colors: http://www.chillyjilly.com/

When traveling in warm weather, I tend to get cold in air conditioning, or in those "in between" temperatures. I have a grey sweater-knit shawl about the same size as those pashmina wraps that I sometimes tie around the strap of my purse so I've got something to wrap up in if I need it. I don't think this wrap will be very warm and is certainly not big enough to cover my arms, but if I need that extra little something, it certainly appears to pack small and will go easily into my purse. If I'm wearing halter or tank tops for outdoor temperatures, I often get cold once I go inside. I ordered charcoal grey, which should go with everything. I've got enough stuff in black already. Though I like the idea of off-white, between having two cats and having seriously hard water, I can't keep anything white looking good. Besides, I'm likely to spill something on myself or lean against a dirty railing or something!

The wrap in grey is backordered until December, so I don't get to try it out anytime soon, but it should hopefully arrive before the January trip. Now I gotta stop spending money on stuff for me and think about Christmas presents! :scared1:

Wrexie

10-24-2009, 10:04 AM

I thought I'd add a note about what we're celebrating during this trip. On January 3, 1995, I did something a little crazy. Keep in mind that this was back in the "dark ages" of the internet before chat rooms and online dating services. I'd been online buddies through a couple of text-based virtual environments with a man called "Siegfried" since late July of 1994. We had a bit of a soap opera virtual romance and ended up "building" a virtual house together (all text based, of course). I thought, for various reasons, some I won't go into here, that we'd just be virtual friends and that would be the end of it.

You didn't just go and meet in-person with someone you met on the internet! However hard we tried to "be ourselves," everyone in the virtual world was, to some extent, playing a character. We only showed our good sides. A virtual romance can have a lot of attraction because you never see the "warts." There are never dirty dishes in the sink or arguments about whose turn it is to take out the trash. Because the person on the other end of the connection is simply a collection of words, you may be filling in the blanks about what they are really like, and coming up with an idealized version.

But at some point we each realized that when we had a good day, or a bad day, or special news to share, the person we wanted to talk to most was that virtual "figment of the imagination" typing at a computer far away. I had a dream in which a caterpillar and tadpole fell in love, but could not enter each others' environments. Then, they turned into a butterfly and a frog. When I told "Siegfried" about this dream, we decided we had to meet.

To make a very long story short, we talked on the phone, exchanged photos, and planned to meet in England on "neutral ground" where we both had our own hotels and own business to attend to, so if things didn't work out, it wouldn't be a wasted trip for either of us. Well, I never used my own hotel.

I still remember walking down a dark street in Oxford toward a man I'd only known online and giving him a big hug. After that trip, we took several vacations together and finally, in summer of 1995, I moved to his city. In summer of 1996, we got married.

So that's the short version of the 15-year anniversary celebrated by a couple of "nut-cases" who met on the internet! :love:

In other news, as of yesterday I can now wear my "skinny jeans" I wore to Disney in 2004! :yay:

wigdoutdismom

10-24-2009, 10:55 AM

I love your story of romance! I think the internet can be a great place to meet people and in the right circumstances meet! How wonderful that you found love that way!

Congrats on the skinny jeans! I need to get on your bandwagon! I think I'm spending too much time on the DIS and perhaps need to spend more on the treadmill......

Elevationist

10-25-2009, 02:28 AM

Oh, you're going to kill me, Wrexie! Now I want a Chilly Jilly! I'd much rather bring something like that with me to the parks, instead of my denim jacket I planned on toting with me! :rolleyes1

I love your story about how you and your DH got together! It gives me hope for Ron and me. :goodvibes Out of curiosity, what game was it? Ron and I met in a similar fashion, though a virtual world environment. In our case it was Second Life. ;)

I've given up on my skinny jeans. I love food more than those jeans, I guess. :rotfl:

Wrexie

10-25-2009, 06:53 AM

I love your story of romance! I think the internet can be a great place to meet people and in the right circumstances meet! How wonderful that you found love that way!

Yeah, as long as you realize the potential dangers, like how much is "in your head" and how much could become real, I don't think the internet is any worse a place to meet people than other ways. In some ways it has advantages, because you're more likely to meet people not like you or people you wouldn't typically run into in a dating scene, and thus broaden your horizons! :)

Congrats on the skinny jeans! I need to get on your bandwagon! I think I'm spending too much time on the DIS and perhaps need to spend more on the treadmill......

Hehe--actually I've still got a few pounds to go to my goal but these jeans have some stretch and are pretty forgiving. I used to be more active, but haven't been able to since a knee injury in March, after which I started putting on the pounds. I realized since I can't exercise like I want to, I had to just cut back on food! The funny thing is, it's not as bad as I thought it would be. I'm still enjoying food, just a little less of it and more healthy stuff like veggies.

Wrexie

10-25-2009, 07:11 AM

Oh, you're going to kill me, Wrexie! Now I want a Chilly Jilly! I'd much rather bring something like that with me to the parks, instead of my denim jacket I planned on toting with me! :rolleyes1

I bet you'll still want the denim jacket--it will be cooling off in the evening for sure. Since I'm coming from Indiana, anything above freezing will feel fabulous to me, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed for some nice warm and sunny days!

I love your story about how you and your DH got together! It gives me hope for Ron and me. :goodvibes Out of curiosity, what game was it? Ron and I met in a similar fashion, though a virtual world environment. In our case it was Second Life. ;)

This was back in the dark ages where the internet was powered by mice running in treadmills...ok maybe not. ;) But the web had just been invented, and most of the social stuff online came from usenet newsgroups and MUDs (multi-user dungeons). It was all text based, like you'd see a room description and a list of exits, for example:

N-the door to a cotttage, S-a thicket, E-a forest path, W-a forest path

And then you would type "N" to go north, etc. and see a description of the next room and the names of any people in it.

Pretty primitive compared to all the graphics nowadays!

Here's the wikipedia page that explains it better than I just did: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MUD

I've given up on my skinny jeans. I love food more than those jeans, I guess. :rotfl:

I know what you mean! I told myself it was ok not to lose the weight, that I liked food too much to try to be thin again. But then my doctor mentioned the words "knee surgery" and I decided I better do everything I could for my health before considering that. Now, my knee problems are caused by bone structure and not weight, but I never had problems when I weighed less, so I thought losing weight would be a good step. We'll see!

Elevationist

10-25-2009, 07:45 AM

This was back in the dark ages where the internet was powered by mice running in treadmills...ok maybe not. ;) But the web had just been invented, and most of the social stuff online came from usenet newsgroups and MUDs (multi-user dungeons). It was all text based, like you'd see a room description and a list of exits, for example:

N-the door to a cotttage, S-a thicket, E-a forest path, W-a forest path

And then you would type "N" to go north, etc. and see a description of the next room and the names of any people in it.

Pretty primitive compared to all the graphics nowadays!

Here's the wikipedia page that explains it better than I just did: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MUDIn 1998, I started doing online text-based fantasy RPGs that were similar to that. So not that ancient. ;P

I had to laugh at this quote from the Wiki page...

It has been argued that modern games like World of Warcraft, and social virtual worlds such as Second Life can have their origins traced back to the early MUDs. Originally graphical virtual worlds were called graphical MUDs, but by 2000 the term MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing game) had become the standard.I have played World of Warcraft for years, and I used to be in Second Life for a long time. Like I said, that's where Ron and I met. :lovestruc

Wrexie

10-25-2009, 04:15 PM

In 1998, I started doing online text-based fantasy RPGs that were similar to that. So not that ancient. ;P

I had to laugh at this quote from the Wiki page...

I have played World of Warcraft for years, and I used to be in Second Life for a long time. Like I said, that's where Ron and I met. :lovestruc

I used to play WoW--my stepson got me addicted. I used to do the big 40-person raids, but then it got to the point I just couldn't keep up with the grinding for better equipment, etc. and most of the people in my guild were more into serious raiding than I was, so I lost interest. It's a great game though! I might pick it up again at some point but would have to take a more casual approach.

Elevationist

10-25-2009, 05:06 PM

I used to play WoW--my stepson got me addicted. I used to do the big 40-person raids, but then it got to the point I just couldn't keep up with the grinding for better equipment, etc. and most of the people in my guild were more into serious raiding than I was, so I lost interest. It's a great game though! I might pick it up again at some point but would have to take a more casual approach.Yeah, I've traveled the spectrum from casual player to raid guild leader, and back again. Several times. LOL. Right now I'm in extreme casual mode. I think alot of it is the people you play with can really sort of make or break the game for you... and I pretty much hate everybody in my guild, so I've been avoiding having to do things with them. :lmao: My WoW BFF is there, though, so I stick around. And I really haven't had enough interest/energy to try and find a new guild anyhow. So when I log in, I just sorta keep to myself for the most part these days. :surfweb:

Wrexie

10-28-2009, 09:25 PM

Ok, I just got a Shutterfly account so I can easily upload photos without having to do them one-by-one on my web hosting site!

Here's a couple from my recent trip to Squire Boone Caverns, and a couple from my last Disney trip--in 2004!

Er, I've got them on Shutterfly but haven't figured out how where to get the image URL to post here. I'll work on that tomorrow--watch this space!:rotfl:

aprilisis

10-29-2009, 02:37 PM

Wrexie

10-29-2009, 09:15 PM

I love your TR! Your story about meeting your husband was so nice. Congrats on losing weight & inches- and thanks for the link to the healthy eating thread. I have just started down a LONG road of weight loss. I need to lose about 60-70 pounds.
Anyways...I just wanted to say hello & I am subscribing. popcorn::

Hi - thanks for reading! Congrats on starting the weight loss--sometimes just getting started can be hard to do. I hope you have lots of success and find some tasty, low-calorie foods that you love!

Wrexie

10-29-2009, 09:27 PM

Ok, I think I've got the Shutterfly thing figured out. Life keeps me pretty busy these days, so I feel like I'm behind on reading all the great trip and pre-trip reports I'm subscribed to, but I hope to catch up over the weekend!

Here are a couple pictures from Squire Boone Caverns:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce09b3127ccef82dfc032a0000000030O00AaOHDhw2auW QPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce09b3127ccef82d48cb2a9200000030O00AaOHDhw2auW QPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

In the second one, the metal walkway goes right over a rushing underground river, though it's sort of hard to see in the photo.

Now, here are a couple of pictures from my last trip to Disney World, in January 2004!

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce09b3127ccef82de7166a8000000030O00AaOHDhw2auW QPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

Here I am by the castle, wearing a pair of jeans I have not been able to get into for maybe 3 years, until now!

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce09b3127ccef82c5eb78b9900000030O00AaOHDhw2auW QPbz4M/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

The obligatory bird picture: an Anhinga! This was from the dock by Tom Sawyer Island, I think, looking toward Splash Mountain.

EDIT: The pictures weren't working from my shared album but I was able to use links directly from Shutterfly. It looks like they're working now!

Wrexie

10-30-2009, 04:53 PM

My "Chilly Jilly" shawl came yesterday and I've got it on right now! It's been warm today, in the high 60s, but rainy. It's a decent mid-weight wrinkle-proof polyester that should be nice for Disney and for the summer months when I'm in a tank top but freeze in the AC.

Looks like I finally got the photos to work, so I'll have to upload some more. Yay!

Lizziejane

10-30-2009, 05:48 PM

Hey! your report has really caught my attention...for a couple of reasons. We're going in January, too and it is our 4th visit also! I'm also trying to loose weight before I go!!! Sooo...I'm on board and hoping we can share tips and advice before the vacation rolls around!

Loving your report so far. I've never done a PTR, but yours is making me want to!

figment41

10-30-2009, 06:13 PM

Hi just joining you on your PTR from Mickeystoontown report. It sounds like you have a great start already. I would definitely plan for at least an hour between parks. The ride times you have are pretty good but you have to remember you may get lucky and get a bus right away or you may have to wait for one. they say they are scheduled to run every 20 minuts but that is not always the case. Especially if my family is trying to get somewhere fast. THey also keep changing the rules and there are not many buses between the parks. Sometimes you have to go on a bus to another resort and then catch the bus to the park from there.

You can also plan on magical express picking you up 3 hours before your flight. This is very early but sometimes they stop at multiple resorts on the way to the airport. It is nice not to have to worry about your luggage though.:wizard:

floridascgirl

10-30-2009, 07:11 PM

Wrexie

10-30-2009, 09:15 PM

Wrexie

10-30-2009, 09:18 PM

You can also plan on magical express picking you up 3 hours before your flight. This is very early but sometimes they stop at multiple resorts on the way to the airport. It is nice not to have to worry about your luggage though.:wizard:

Thanks for the tips! Yeah, I figured we had to catch that bus pretty early. That's one reason I scheduled our flight for later in the afternoon. If we get going at a decent hour, we may be able to drop off our luggage, check out, and do a bit of shopping at Downtown Disney before we catch our bus to the airport. I do really like the idea of not worrying with luggage! On the flight there, I'm planning to put my swimsuit, sunscreen, etc. in a carry-on in case we can't get our luggage right away. I want to be prepared to take advantage of the pool!

Wrexie

10-30-2009, 09:23 PM

Hey there! I just joined in on your PTR and I'm really loving it. :surfweb: Thanks for posting all of the photos and links. I love the sandals and your new wrap. :wizard: Our last two trips were in January. It's a great month for Disney as far as lines and crowds are concerned. Somehow, however, we managed to time it when it was freakishly cold (scarf and glove cold). :eek: Make sure that you cover all of your bases weather wise...cold, rain and warmish temps. Florida weather can be really tricky in January.

Hi - thanks for reading! :)

Yeah, I've got a packing list partially started, but I'll have to wait till closer to time to decide for sure how many sweaters and jackets to bring, long pants vs. skirts, etc. We went to L.A. last January and I nearly froze to death because I hadn't counted on how much time we'd be spending outside. So many of the restaurants have outdoor seating and in January they just turn on a couple of heaters and people wear a coat and scarf to dinner. I was plenty warm walking around but sitting outside after dark was a different matter!

Lizziejane

10-30-2009, 09:27 PM

Cool! You should start a PTR! When in January are you going and where are you staying? :)

I started one!! LOL My problem is, with 3 guys, they basically get excited on the way to the airport. They don't understand the planning and anticipation, and therefore, will tolerate my ramblings for about 30 seconds. So a PTR is a great way for me to vent it all, even if no one ever reads it!

We are staying at BWV in a 2-bedroom Boardwalk view (woohoo) from Jan. 24-Feb. 1.

By the way, aren't you worried your toes will get cold in your new sandals in January?! as I recall, it can be pretty chilly in the mornings!

Wrexie

10-30-2009, 10:03 PM

I started one!! LOL My problem is, with 3 guys, they basically get excited on the way to the airport. They don't understand the planning and anticipation, and therefore, will tolerate my ramblings for about 30 seconds. So a PTR is a great way for me to vent it all, even if no one ever reads it!

We are staying at BWV in a 2-bedroom Boardwalk view (woohoo) from Jan. 24-Feb. 1.

By the way, aren't you worried your toes will get cold in your new sandals in January?! as I recall, it can be pretty chilly in the mornings!

Boardwalk looks fantastic! I like how close it is to Epcot.

I actually wore my sandals today -- we had a high around 68 and lows somewhere in the 50's. :rotfl: But I'll make sure to bring closed shoes I can wear with socks too. I love wearing sandals when I can but don't want blue toes! :scared1:

I'm going to see if I can find your pre-trip report!

Lizziejane

10-30-2009, 11:42 PM

by the way, we stayed at the CBR on our first visit. We loved it! We booked a regular room, but at check-in I asked, very politely, if there was any chance of a room with a bit of a view. We were lucky enough to get a corner room, where one window looked out over the lake, and the other over the quiet pool! Our routine was me going to pick up breakfast while the guys got showered. I have to say, that early morning walk was heavenly. There was usually a mist/ fog over the water and it was so quiet and peaceful.

You asked too about old movies on Main Street at MK. I believe they are still there, but I'm unsure which building it is. I know I just read something about it a couple of days ago, but for the life of me, I can't remember where exactly. Now you have me curious to go off and find it again!

Elevationist

11-01-2009, 10:27 AM

I actually wore my sandals today -- we had a high around 68 and lows somewhere in the 50's. :rotfl: But I'll make sure to bring closed shoes I can wear with socks too. I love wearing sandals when I can but don't want blue toes! :scared1:Gosh, I'm so nervous about this too. I don't NOT NOT NOT want to have to wear my sneakers, but I'm bringing them just in case it happens to be so cold that I have toesicles inside my Crocs. :rolleyes:

Wrexie

11-07-2009, 09:29 AM

I haven't posted here in a while, but I haven't dropped off the face of the earth completely!

Life's been pretty busy with writing deadlines, work work work, and planning my Mom's surprise 70th birthday party in a couple of weeks.

The good news: I reached a major weight-loss goal of losing 10% of my starting weight! DH and I went out to dinner last night to celebrate. I had filet mignon and two martinis. When I got on the scales this morning, I hadn't gained! Whew! :worship:

Also, I sold a story to an online magazine! I'll post a link when it goes live, because it's actually sort of non-fiction as anyone who read the story of how I met my husband might be able to figure out. ;)

DH and I watched the Toy Story 3D double feature, as we hadn't managed to see either movie before. Now we're ready for the Toy Story ride at DHS. :) Very fun movies!

I've got so much on my plate right now with teaching a new college class this year that requires lots of preparation and grading, and I've got to work on the exam and prepare a syllabus for next semester, etc. I work 7 days a week with multiple part-time and self-employed projects and sometimes dream of having a full-time job so I could work less hours. This causes random disappearances from DIS for several days at a time. :)

No more big trip plans to report, but as it starts to get cooler here, I'm really hoping for nice warm weather in Florida in January.

wigdoutdismom

11-07-2009, 11:25 AM

Life does get busy doesn't it? I guess that's a good thing, it makes the days fly by and then it's time for our next trip!

Wrexie

11-10-2009, 09:42 PM

We sent in our last payment online today--we've paid off the mouse and are ready for our trip! :banana::banana::banana:

Er, too bad we've got to wait nearly two months. But the holidays are coming up and time will fly between now and then. Right now, I'm just trying to make it through the semester with lots of grading, making sure I get the right information to my students, etc. I've got a writing deadline this weekend too, but I think I'm in pretty good shape for that.

I'm really behind on keeping up with everyone else's trip and pre-trip reports, but hopefully can catch up in a few days!

aprilisis

11-10-2009, 11:18 PM

Woohoo for being paid off. That is a great feeling- to make the last payment. The 2 months will DEFINITELY fly right by.You will be in WDW before you know it!

mickeystoontown

11-12-2009, 11:05 AM

Congrats on lots of things: 1) Selling your story. I sure hope that you'll post a link so we can read it. 2) Your weight loss and being able to eat a filet mignon and not gaining any weight! 3) Paying off your trip. It always makes me feel all mushy inside knowing it's paid for.

With the holidays coming up, time is sure to fly by!

Wrexie

11-30-2009, 08:47 PM

I've fallen way behind here--life's been crazy with planning my Mother's 70th birthday party, which was Saturday. It went really well and we all had a fabulous time. My husband did a power point presentation with photos and video excerpts from old home movies and it was so much fun!

Here's a link to the story I sold. Like I said, it's a little surreal, but if you've read the post about how I met my husband, it will make sense.

The True Story of How I Became Real (http://www.hypersonictales.com/hypersonic2/index.php?slab=the-true-story-of-how-i-became-real)

I got my Magical Express vouchers and luggage tags in the mail when I got back from my Thanksgiving trip! :yay:They don't have my flight information in there even though I provided it when I reserved the trip online, but I can call and fix that.

Now I've got to dive back into grading first drafts of term papers, which is way too time-consuming, but I figure the more detailed I am on these drafts, the better paper they will turn in for the final draft. I'd love to be able to give them all A's but they have to earn them.

In just over a month, I'll be on that plane to Disney! :cheer2:

Lizziejane

12-02-2009, 11:58 PM