Our Own Fab Five..December 2009

[Disney Mommy 3]

Well, hello all!! I am finally getting to start my TR!!!:goodvibes I think most of you will have read my PTR, but for those of you who are new, let me introduce our family to you!


We are: DH~ Wonderful Husband and Daddy!! Super duper family guy! Never went to Disney until we went together...he has really come to love our Disney vacations...he appreciates the great attention to detail that Disney does so well! This was his 10th trip.

Me!~ Wife/Mommy, homeschool mamma! Lover of all things Disney....Went to Disney 3 times as a kid with my family....this was my 13th trip.

DS14~ The Eldest! Super kid!!!!He turned 14 the day before we left...we didn't tell him when the trip was till Thanksgiving week......he just couldn't handle the suspense.....loves all the technical gizmos, is great in Math and is a wonderful big brother. Trip #10.

DS10~ My baby boy!! He is my Lego lover! He can eat, breathe and sleep Legos this kid...so of course he loooongs for Lego land on our Disney trips. He is very smart also...he is interested in so many things, and retains so much info, that we had nicknamed him The Professor years ago.Trip #10.

DD6~ My baby girl!!! She is a girly-girl...but she can keep up with those boys all day! She is a sweet girl...very considerate of everybody...looks to ds10 as her playmate and asks him tons of questions...looks up to ds14 as THE big brother....actually her and ds10 seem like twins...they do so much together! She loves ballet, butterflies, and all things girly! Trip #7...8 if you count the trip we took in Nov of '02 when I was pregnant with her!

Annie is our weenie dog mix...I will try to find a cute pic of her....

So...that's all the players in this drama! I picked the title because so much Disney is promoted by, and known, when you see the Fab 5. Since we are 5, and I think we are Fabulous(ha!!) it seemed appropo!!!We went in Jan of 09 and for our next trip I had already planned to go back the same week in 2010-it would be around Jan 24..give or take a day or two....was ready to get those rooms secured and dh threw a kink in my plans....he decided we should go when it was decorated for Christmas. Now...he is the most Christmas lovin' guy I know....it's always been his favorite season. And how ironic that we got together during the Holiday season!! Makes it even better!!!! This past December, by the way, was our 16th Christmas together...AAAWWWWWW!!! :hug: I really prefer to do Christmas, get it all packed away and then look foward to Disney in Jan.....but, not so this year! I also don't like being there on the 4th...which is ds14s birthday..we have been there on his bday before, but with the other two being born in April and May, we can't be there ON their bday....she is Easter and he is Mother's Day!! So, it is not a great time to go. Anyhoo....we had thought about leaving on Sat.after T-Day, but again,....dh says, no, we can just go on the 5th. I then found out it was Pop Warner week:scared1: I had taken us once before when it was PW and it wasn't too bad.....well...this time was different!
Before, I didn't notice the girls in the parks too much, this time they were in every park at diff times of the day, and the worst thing was.....the football boys! I hope not to offend anyone reading this if your kid was part of that, but just let me say what our experiences were. More than once we saw groups of boys & girls with NO chaperone or adults...and these were large groups of kids, not 2 or 3 at a time. We heard filthy language...kids & adults included...also, the boys were seen to be cutting in line, being asked to go to the back,shoving, and being very rude in general. Girls were screaming/chanting/pushing in line....this had to be the time that I would have said,it was a problem. I will do everything possible to avoid this time of the year in the future...and I do plan to talk to someone at Disney about it. Not that I don't think kids should be rewarded or anything like that,but when it gets to the point you have to ask adults to watch their language because its in front of your children..that is just ridiculous. Especially at a place that we see as a family place...where we can escape all that if only for a little while. SO...off my soapbox now!!! It was a great trip, but just noted that I wouldn't put us in that position again!
Transportation: We Fly!!!! I do NOT want to drive!! We always try to use our flyer miles and once again, we all five got our tickets this way, then took full advantage of the Magical Express!! Don't ya'll just love it!!!!! What a relief! My husband spends hours a day driving and we don't want to have to do more than necessary when going to Disney, so this is just a blessing for us!!!
Now...We live in South East Texas and we never have drastic winters...well, lo and behold we got one last year and this one has been even better! It snowed on Friday before we left, and Sat it was ccccooooooollllllddddd when we left....the bridges had ice warnings and we even had to wait and de-ice our plane!!! First for us that's for sure!!!!
Well....you know all the rigamorole for boarding/security/baggage, and all that jazz. We actually got to our gate as they were boarding..never had that happen before either...it was a little earlier than they usually start the boarding, but we made it...a little close for me, but dh rolls that way. The weather really held us up and we did leave earlier than planned....so, we were on our way!!!
When we got to the ME I was not prepared for what I saw......I can venture to say that the line was at LEAST 10 times longer than ever before and that's being generous!!! They are changing up the way they are loading buses, so we had about a 30 minute wait....then we loaded up on that wonderful bus and took off the the Contemporary!!!!!!

[Disney Mommy 3]

http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/388.jpg

Okay, lets see if this works,,,this what I had on my first post and it didn't show up!

[Disney Mommy 3]

Okay...we are now at the CR!!!!! Unloaded our carry-ons, and backpacks, and ready to check-in! We were on the 8th floor and we loved it! Great view! You just can't go wrong with a Theme Park View!!!!! It was quite lovely! It was a little cool and damp..it had rained a lot before our arrival....but it was warmer than the rare 27 degrees we had left in Houston! So,...I have to admit that at this point I was getting a headache...travel days do that to me because I stress about getting there, making sure we have everything..I just really get tense....dh on the other hand dh never bats an eye! I am a super planner and just want it all to go according to plan! He never worries about stuff like this.....geez....I just can't do that!! Can we say OCD....or Control Freak? Maybe/maybe not....maybe it's just the mamma in me!!!! Either way, we were starving! We went down to eat at the food court there at the CR. We had our first experience with the touch screen ordering...it was kinda confusing at first...then the girl at the register seemed a little confused! We had her another time during the week and she was much better-----I think it was just kinda crazy in there that night. The floors and table were mostly dirty,the food was ok....I didn't have much of an appetite with my head hurting, but the kids ate pretty well.
I had a Cheese flatbread, dh and ds14 had burgers, ds10 had nuggets, and dd had cheese pizza. We jumped on a monorail and took a ride around the circuit, came back and got in our room not too long before our luggage arrived. We got the clothes out and the bathroom all set up and got ready for bed. We were tired and we were getting up Sunday for our first Rope Drop!!!!
Our room..facing the balcony
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/019-1.jpg
Our two wonderful beds!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/020-2.jpg
The couch/pull out sofa that the kids took turns on...ds14 called it for most of the week!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/022.jpg

[ramsfootball92]

Great report so far! I can't wait to read more popcorn::

[Mndisneygirl]

Dang, I'm not first!!
Great start Shawna! I'm subbing! Like you knew I would!

[ladybugmom]

Hi Shawna!!! I just found your TR and I'm excited to read it as we're planning a December trip for this year!! Your family is just precious!! I can't wait to hear more! :goodvibes

[trixiequilts]

Hey Shawna! I'm so excited about your TR! And I just happen to love your backpack, too. :lovestruc I have the Libby in Hope Garden. How did you like having a backpack? Did you feel like you were constantly taking it off to get at things? That's my fear about wearing a backpack instead of a crossbody bag. :confused:

More, please! :thumbsup2

[Momof2Disneyboys]

Hey Shawna! :goodvibes I'm here! :yay:

Going back to read now. . . popcorn::

[Disney Mommy 3]

Great report so far! I can't wait to read more popcorn::

Hey!! You're first!!!!! How fun!!!!
Dang, I'm not first!!
Great start Shawna! I'm subbing! Like you knew I would!

Thanks Sheree!! At least it's a close 2nd..:rotfl:
Hi Shawna!!! I just found your TR and I'm excited to read it as we're planning a December trip for this year!! Your family is just precious!! I can't wait to hear more! :goodvibes
Hi!!! OH good...we can tell you all the fun things to look for!!!!Hey Shawna! I'm so excited about your TR! And I just happen to love your backpack, too. :lovestruc I have the Libby in Hope Garden. How did you like having a backpack? Did you feel like you were constantly taking it off to get at things? That's my fear about wearing a backpack instead of a crossbody bag. :confused:

More, please! :thumbsup2

I loooove the Hope Garden! I did a VB crossbody thing in Jan and I didn't like it. It felt weird on my neck and I just have to many people wanting me to carry their stuff! The Backpack was awesome...you know how lightweight her stuff is anyway...it worked beautifully! I use it at our local mall too, when I take the kids clothes shopping...I think you would like it.
Hey Shawna! :goodvibes I'm here! :yay:

Going back to read now. . . popcorn::

Hey Mama Snowbird!!!!!!:goodvibes Glad you are here!!!!!!
Okay...ya'll! I am started ,but it may be slow this week----dh took my laptop in last night and they are ordering me a new charger...should be in this week, but who knows...I have to save what battery I have left for my kids school. Frustrating...but there it is!!! Glad you are all here and I will keep it going as I can until this glitch is taken care of!!!

[Momof2Disneyboys]

Great start! :goodvibes

I sure hope you were able to enjoy your vacation despite the Pop Warner kids. :scared1:

I hear you on the first day headache. :sad2: Always happens to me. A combination of stress, nerves, and not eating right I think.

Love your room pics!

Hope you get your computer issues straightened out soon. Can't wait for more! :yay:

[Northern Disney Girl]

:cool1: YAY!!!!! You started finally! :thumbsup2

Love the TR so far Shawna! Great job! :woohoo: Hope all the computer stuff gets fixed really soon :)

I'll be waiting for more! This is a definite subber! :goodvibes

[praisehisname]

Jumping onboard!

[disneylovin24]

I'm here:thumbsup2

Can't wait to read more

[Monny2AE]

Hoping to make first page! :cool1: Great TR so far! You have a beautiful family! Love the pic in front of the castle!

[Mndisneygirl]

Don't worry Shawna, we'll wait!!!
I want a new battery for my laptop but for now I just keep plugging it in wherever I want to use it.

[princesslily]

Great start! I can't wait for morepopcorn::

[Dancegrl624]

I'm here Shawna!!! I can't wait to read more about your trip. :goodvibes

[Pluto_fan]

:wave2: I'm here too! Can't wait to hear more! :surfweb:

[Monny2AE]

Jumping onboard!

Just noticed you're from Baltimore Co. I'm in Cecil now but grew up in Baltimore Co. Howdy neighbor! Small world! :goodvibes

[praisehisname]

Just noticed you're from Baltimore Co. I'm in Cecil now but grew up in Baltimore Co. Howdy neighbor! Small world! :goodvibes

Cool! I have friends in Perryville, and my parents are in the process of moving to Rising Sun.

[Northern Disney Girl]

:surfweb: popcorn:: :rolleyes1 :laundy: :flower3:

Hope you all getting caught up on all the school work y'all missed out on while your puter was in the shop! :hug:

Can't wait to hear some more about your trip! :goodvibes

[Disney Mommy 3]

hello everybody and thanks for comin' over!!!!! I am so glad all my friends are finding me!!!! Well....good news...my new part came in today so I can now use the laptop!!!! I have been reserving my battery just for the boys to do their math...what a relief!!!! I will hopefully do an update tomorrow!!! my younger two are spending the night with friends..so we took ds14 to eat and to see the Spy Next Door, with Jackie Chan...it was cute. I love Jackie Chan...he is great....my fav with him was Around the World in 80 Days...that was hilarious!!!!! Ok...back to Disney stuff...I am trying to catch up on all the TRs and stuff I have missed this weekend,...I know Drakes, and both of my Kimmies are almost ready to head to the World!!! Yippee for ya'll!!!!! I feel like I have been on a desert island without communicating with all of you!!! Glad to be 'home'! ha!!!! Photobucket question...do you have to load one picture at a time? I have a lot to do for the rest of my trip days and it is taking an eternity for the photobucket...I thought there was an option on PB for bulk loading,,,but can't figure it out..when I click on it, it does nothing? Oh well,,,if I have to wait for each one I will...next update coming soon!

[Mndisneygirl]

hello everybody and thanks for comin' over!!!!! I am so glad all my friends are finding me!!!! Well....good news...my new part came in today so I can now use the laptop!!!! I have been reserving my battery just for the boys to do their math...what a relief!!!! I will hopefully do an update tomorrow!!! my younger two are spending the night with friends..so we took ds14 to eat and to see the Spy Next Door, with Jackie Chan...it was cute. I love Jackie Chan...he is great....my fav with him was Around the World in 80 Days...that was hilarious!!!!! Ok...back to Disney stuff...I am trying to catch up on all the TRs and stuff I have missed this weekend,...I know Drakes, and both of my Kimmies are almost ready to head to the World!!! Yippee for ya'll!!!!! I feel like I have been on a desert island without communicating with all of you!!! Glad to be 'home'! ha!!!! Photobucket question...do you have to load one picture at a time? I have a lot to do for the rest of my trip days and it is taking an eternity for the photobucket...I thought there was an option on PB for bulk loading,,,but can't figure it out..when I click on it, it does nothing? Oh well,,,if I have to wait for each one I will...next update coming soon!


I was able to upload up to 200 at a time if I highlighted or selected a bunch of pictures at once. I don't know if that's a bulk uploader or not, it just worked for me like that. I think I held down shift while clicking the pictures I wanted to upload. Good Luck!!

So glad you got your part for your laptop! Now you can get your TR going strong! I'll be waiting for an update!!
popcorn:::surfweb:

[klacey1]

Hi, Shawna! I followed along on the Christmas Shopping thread. Excited to join in here and hear some more!

[Disney Mommy 3]

Hey!! Glad you are here! I hope to get a new update tomorrow...my oldest son has a youth banquet at church tonight...so it is not gonna be this afternoon for sure! We have to be up there by 4, and I still have school work to do with DD6. So....I know you are all getting tired of waiting, but hopefully I can get a lot done at a time!

[Pluto_fan]

We're ready when you are, Shawna! popcorn::

[Disney Mommy 3]

Day 1..Magic Kingdom!!
Well, you all know how excited I was about getting us a day at Magic Kingdom started at Rope Drop! I asked all of your advice about times, and asked the CMs at the Cont. what was the best time,since we were going to be walking over...even called that Sun morning to make sure and was told every time that it was at 9 and we should leave around 8:30...which we did, much to the chagrin of Mike and the kiddos...who wanted to lounge around. Well, the walk was pleasant...a little chilly, but not too bad...guess who didn't want to bring jackets...me, or the kids...it was suppose to really warm up....as we are getting closer, I can hear commotion that doesn't sound like theme-park-opening-celebration to me. But, what do I know? ....as we get to the gate, we find that the park is open!!!!! I am totally confused and getting upset....seems that when they do the parade taping, they do NOT do a RD...apparently, our CMs didn't know this...or about the Jonas Bros. concert that we were about to miss(I had a schedule & plan I was sticking too!)...so...I did find out later that they really only did one song, and it was super quick, in-&-out...and that we didn't miss much. So...we go to Dumbo,
Peter Pan,..posted at 20 minutes. Dumbo probably was, but P.P. was about 12.Fantasy land was still pretty deserted,even tho we missed the RD...
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/027-1.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/028.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/029.jpg
DD and Mike waiting for Dumbo!!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/030.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/031.jpg
So...it's off to ToonTown from here!

[Disney Mommy 3]

My dd in the pic at Dumbo is the little blonde standing closer to the fence..with the pink shirt...Mike is in front of her with the cap and jacket.Okay...we are going to hit ToonTown about 9:45 to make that RD and get in line for TINK!! I was super excited about that...been wanting to go see her since our last trip in Jan..when the lines were crazy!!! Guess what? No Rope Drop for TT either:confused3...I asked the guy in the big tent store why they didn't have it and he said, I don't know...and they had a surprise-early-opening at like 8:30...no one really knew about it and guests are trickling in thinking they are gonna do a Rope Drop. So,,,disappointed again...lines for Tink are already over an hour at this point. YUCK!! Not a good start...and by now, the lines are starting to get longer and the crowds are picking up.Mike, dd, and ds10 are in line at this point for Goofys Barnstormer....never do see them go by, or get a text saying they are finished...well here they come...the ride is broken, so they all get MK FPs to use by the end of the week. So, we head to Tomorrowland...DD was tall enough and got to ride Space Mountain!!!:yay: She is a roller coaster girl, so this was amazing for her. I was so proud of her! And I have to say, that line was the longest for SM I have ever been in...about 25 minutes!
Here is the view of TT when we first get there, and then DD in line for SM!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/032.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/033.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/034.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/035.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/037.jpg
Next, we rode the Buzz ride..I won that time!! I can't remember the score, but it was over 100,000...which is good for me! Ha!! Then we had lunch at Cosmic Rays...our first CS with the dining plan...we do breakfast stuff in the room, so we try to do an early lunch most of the time.We all got the burgers, except for dd who, of course, wanted chicken nuggets. It was all pretty good--the burgers are just waaay to big for me,but it was okay.On to the Carousel of Progress...one of Mikes all time favorite rides!! Next was Big Thunder Mount RR...line time said 20 minutes...closer to 30 or 35. But, we did meet a great family from Florida...they too are homeschoolers, and the dad works for NASA, the mom is a nurse....if you are reading, you know who you are! It was a blessing to meet you!!! they were really sweet and had awesome kids--they came early to do the Jonas B thing.. they actually had to be there at 7!! they learned some dance thing and the camera scanned the crowd.....special tickets for that! From here, we walked with our new found friends over to Pirates of the Caribbean...that line wasn't very long. Next up for us was Jungle Cruise...love that little ride and all the jokes even while standing in line!Headed to Haunted Mansion..but the line was crazy long.so, we head back through the little tunnel to go see Philharmagic....CLOSED!!! AAARRRRGGGGHHHHH!!! So..we jumped on the WDW RR and road all around the park...it was a needed rest...dd didn't have a stroller and she was getting a little tired!They played on that playground at ToonTown for quite a while....we walked down Main Street and looked in some shops and just tried to take it all in. I always forget how much detail there is in that one street! So..we take a left by Caseys...we have dinner ressies at the Castle around 5:30, but wanted to try to get in early. That night was a MVMCP night, and I knew they would be trying to get those of us without tickets out before the parade....which I totally agree with, but didn't want to be caught in the mob! That was the earliest ressie I could get, and it's so hard to get in there, I just took it!! So...we are headed to the Crystal Palace walkway and guess who my son sees?

SHEREE!!!!! they were meeting their family at the CP and had gotten over there late and were waiting for a table. It was sooo good to see her!!! We knew we would get together at some point, just not when. We had been texting for days!! I really was hyped to see her, but disappointed that we wouldn't have time to talk! So, it was a brief hug and hey how are you,,,then we had to get!!! They had changed the 3 o'clock parade to 5 because of the filming that morning and people were starting to line up on the street where we had to cross. So...we headed to Cinderella's Royal Table!

[Disney Mommy 3]

http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/040.jpg
Taken at BTMRR by our new friends!

Mike is having a blast at this playground...can you tell?DS10 is making faces at him while he naps!! Ha!!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/055.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/048.jpg
I don't know if he is blinking or squinting!! Ha!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/051.jpg
they soooo love this little play area..
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/053.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/054.jpg

Okay...now we are at CRT...and it's just as fantastic as always!!! Mike and I both got the Herb-Rubbed Roasted Chicken,he got soup, I got the salad. Which I thought was wonderful!! DS10 got the BLT salad & Prime Rib( he was on the adult menu now since he is 10)..dd got the kids fish, and ds14..I forgot to write it down~ desserts were great, Ds14 got the creme brulee`,dd got the kids Ice Cream Sundae, and the rest of us got the Chocolate Buckle. If you go...get that!!! WOW! It was wonderful!! I took pics but for some reason, none of my food pics turned out worth a flip!!!! I don't know why, but they are fuzzy...Suzy, Perla, and the Fairy Godmother came:wizard::yay: and of course, I wanted to cry when she sang and they danced...i am a SAP!!! Ha!!! This Cinderella was very pretty and I loved her jacket!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/060.jpg
These little critters are always around..keeping an eye out!!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/059.jpg
DS10 pouring over the menu!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/064.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/066.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/068.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/073.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/077.jpg
AAhhh... the Fairy Godmother sang behind me!:wizard::laughing:
After this, we made our way out the gate and down the pathway to the CR. For some reason DS10s allergies were flaring up and his eyes were red and his nose was running...poor little guy! I gave him Benadryl and hoped it worked! I can't have a kid feeling bad at WDW...he wouldn't have any fun!! So, by 8:15 we are all bathed, and in bed watching tv. Even with missing RD and not seeing Tink (AGAIN)...it was a wonderful day!!!We were together and at Disney World...with a castle view to boot!! Who could complain? Well...up next...Monday at the World!!!

[Mndisneygirl]

Yay!! an update! :yay: Thanks for the shout out! It was a nice surprise to see you that night after all the racing around!
I'm glad you posted pics of CRT inside - we've never been. Hopefully on our next trip! Glad to hear you liked the food too - some people think it's not worth it.

I love the pic of your DH snoozing and DS making faces!! How funny!
I know that day was just wacky at MK since the parade stuff had been postponed from Friday and Saturday due to rain.

Shawna had been texting me telling me how crazy MK was!
Nice that the family at BTMRR took your picture - it's super cute. At least not all the rides were long lines that day.

Hmm, wonder where you go the next day??? I guess I'll let you tell! :laughing:

[Northern Disney Girl]

Nice Update Shawna! :thumbsup2 So glad you guys had a good day in spite of the crowds! :) Your little Miss G looks just like her Mama! :cutie: Too Sweet! :goodvibes

I am really hoping that *when* (not "if") we go back to WDW that CRT supper will be on our list! The food sounds sooooo yummy! popcorn::

[Disney Mommy 3]

Oh ya'll...that food is great! I think it's even better on the ddp..otherwise it is pricey!!!!

[ladybugmom]

Great update!! WOW--Fantasyland was EMPTY when you got there! Sorry you missed both rope drops and things didn't go as planned. But glad you met a nice family in line and ran into Sheree!! How fun!! :goodvibes CRT looks sooo much better food wise for dinner than it was for breakfast! YUM!! I just wish they had the princesses at dinner!! You're family is absolutely precious!! I can't wait to read more! :goodvibes

[Pluto_fan]

Great update! Your whole family is just darling! :cutie: (but don't tell your boys I said that ;) )

I hate to admit how irritated I would have gotten if, having researched and double checked when we needed to be where, they had changed the schedule of everything! Y'all seem to have taken it in stride..good for you! :thumbsup2 I need to learn to "go with the flow" a bit better :rolleyes1

:cheer2: Yay for a spontaneous Snowbird meet! :cheer2:

[MAGGIED]

Wonderful update.... can't wait to hear more!!!!

[Disney Mommy 3]

Great update!! WOW--Fantasyland was EMPTY when you got there! Sorry you missed both rope drops and things didn't go as planned. But glad you met a nice family in line and ran into Sheree!! How fun!! :goodvibes CRT looks sooo much better food wise for dinner than it was for breakfast! YUM!! I just wish they had the princesses at dinner!! You're family is absolutely precious!! I can't wait to read more! :goodvibes
It was pretty empty! I love coming around by Snow White and not seeing anyone!! Ha!! I don't think I would like CRT for breakfast...and I don't want to use up a TS for it...I don't eat that big of a breakfast.
Great update! Your whole family is just darling! :cutie: (but don't tell your boys I said that ;) )

I hate to admit how irritated I would have gotten if, having researched and double checked when we needed to be where, they had changed the schedule of everything! Y'all seem to have taken it in stride..good for you! :thumbsup2 I need to learn to "go with the flow" a bit better :rolleyes1

:cheer2: Yay for a spontaneous Snowbird meet! :cheer2:

I was pretty disappointed! Mike was aggravated...he said, so, this is not even what I have heard you nagging about all morning! I had rushed them to death..well, at least we got all the big rides over by lunchtime!!! I would think the CMs would know by now that if they are doing a special show/opening and a parade they would know that RD ain't gonna happen!! Geez! Oh well.... I know now...and so do you!!! Don't make the same assumption I did! Wonderful update.... can't wait to hear more!!!!
Thanks Wendy!! Hopefully later today or in the morning I can move on to Day 2...the kids are about to converge on the laptop for school!!!

[Momof2Disneyboys]

Great update Shawna! :goodvibes

I'm sorry rope drop didn't work out for you. I know you were really looking forward to it. But it sounds like you had a nice day anyway. Love all the pictures and CRT sounds very yummy!

[klacey1]

What a fun day! I'm shocked that some of the lines (BTMRR and the pixies...well, not really the pixies) were on the long side, yet Space Mountain was only 25 minutes! Pretty good considering it was just refurbed!

[Disney Mommy 3]

Hi Ladies! Just wanted to tell ya'll our opinion of the refurbed Space Mountain...as far as major changes...it was really hard to tell anything different? Not sure what they did...maybe the sequence or something..? They did add some interactive stuff to do in the line,...but Mike and I both thought it was a lot more jerky than before...in fact my head was hurting after we got off---I know it always has the warning up before you go in, but this time is the only time I really noticed and 'suffered' anything from the ride...Mike mentioned his head/neck was sore also....so, in my opinion it was just rougher..not better. Mike did take the kids on it again later in the trip, but I bowed out...he said it was the same way the next time too...very rough and jerks your neck.

[Momof2Disneyboys]

Hi Ladies! Just wanted to tell ya'll our opinion of the refurbed Space Mountain...as far as major changes...it was really hard to tell anything different? Not sure what they did...maybe the sequence or something..? They did add some interactive stuff to do in the line,...but Mike and I both thought it was a lot more jerky than before...in fact my head was hurting after we got off---I know it always has the warning up before you go in, but this time is the only time I really noticed and 'suffered' anything from the ride...Mike mentioned his head/neck was sore also....so, in my opinion it was just rougher..not better. Mike did take the kids on it again later in the trip, but I bowed out...he said it was the same way the next time too...very rough and jerks your neck.

Well that's not good news. :faint: I was really hoping the refurb would make it smoother. I'll probably ride it once, but DS10 will be on his own if he wants to ride it more than that! :rotfl:

[praisehisname]

Even though you didn't make rope drop, you still got A LOT done at MK! :thumbsup2 Your CRT dinner sounded good; I can't wait to eat there someday!

[Northern Disney Girl]

Hey Shawna!!! :goodvibes

Just checkin' in from Minneapolis! :cool1: We made it safe and sound with no worries or problems! Girls were great and we did it in the time we thought we would! :thumbsup2

Got to meet with Sheree! What a wonderful lady! Too bad her girls were not well! :sick: We hope to meet again on our way back through! Hopefully all will be well by then!

Hope you have a fabulous week! I will try to check in somehow but if I can't i will definitely check in when we get back to the hotel here in Minneapolis!

:hug:

[Dancegrl624]

Great update Shawna!!!! I'd love to eat at CRT someday. I've always loved seeing the pictures from inside and the food has always sounded great as well. I can't wait to hear more!

[Disney Mommy 3]

Even though you didn't make rope drop, you still got A LOT done at MK! :thumbsup2 Your CRT dinner sounded good; I can't wait to eat there someday!

We did get a lot done..I was grateful for that! That was my commando day! ha!! You gotta have some if you want to get it all in at least once! I just wanted them to see the RD perfomance...but, oh well!! All's well that ends well!:cutie:Hey Shawna!!! :goodvibes

Just checkin' in from Minneapolis! :cool1: We made it safe and sound with no worries or problems! Girls were great and we did it in the time we thought we would! :thumbsup2

Got to meet with Sheree! What a wonderful lady! Too bad her girls were not well! :sick: We hope to meet again on our way back through! Hopefully all will be well by then!

Hope you have a fabulous week! I will try to check in somehow but if I can't i will definitely check in when we get back to the hotel here in Minneapolis!

:hug:

Hey Kim!! I am assuming you are in flight right now :banana: or at MCO! Isn't Sheree the greatest!!? I just love her to death! Definintely holler when you get back! Ya'll have a blast this week and if your girls get to see Tink, tell them to say hi from me!!!:)Great update Shawna!!!! I'd love to eat at CRT someday. I've always loved seeing the pictures from inside and the food has always sounded great as well. I can't wait to hear more!

Hey Meghan! I think I might have more pictures of the inside of the castle..will check and see if they turned out good enough to post...when it starts getting dark outside,they kinda come out wierd due to the light from the stained glass windows. Yep...u gotta plan to take Madison next trip! It's very pricey...but hey....how many chances do you get to eat in a castle? And with Cinderella no less!!!!!!

[jbmgsdmom]

I am signing on. I am loving your reviews. We are a family of five taking our first WDW trip this Oct so I am learning a ton from these boards and your review. Can't wait to hear more.

[Disney Mommy 3]

I am signing on. I am loving your reviews. We are a family of five taking our first WDW trip this Oct so I am learning a ton from these boards and your review. Can't wait to hear more.

OOOHHHH Yay!! Glad to have you!! Hope I can help! If you have specific questions...let me know! It is totally different going anywhere with 5--a world of difference from 4...I am working on an update now!!

[Disney Mommy 3]

Park Day 2...Mon Dec 7

Ok...today is the day for DHS!! We wanted to be here all day for the Osborne lights..as we have never made it to see them. So..we knew it would be a long day, but we still wanted to get there early for TSMM!! Well...we woke up to wet & soggy weather..which as you know makes it soooo hard to wake up! We missed RD..but we did get there by 9:15...not too shabby! We managed to interact with some great streetmosphere people...which is a highlight for us...we always get a kick outta them!!!! We went straight to TSMM (about 9:20 or so by now) to get our FPs...return time is now afternoon! WOW! Oh well,.... I really would rather do that than sprint to the line! So...we went to RNR...it was the first time Gracie and I would ride it! She has always been too short...but now she was tall enough! We liked it a lot!!! I was NOT prepared for such a crazy take-off....I knew it was gonna be severe...but geez!! Of course, having Aerosmith blasting in your brain kinda takes the focus off the initial blast!! :rockband: Our first ride!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/079.jpg
which we did twice in a row..the lines were shoooooort as this point! Now to TOT.... I don't ride this. I have a slight heart murmer, and the time I rode it, I was sick allllll day. I did see several elderly people ( with canes/walkers/wheelchairs) get off while we were waiting! Way to Go!!! If it doesn't make them feel like I did..more power to ya!!!!Well, my little daredevil princess decides she can do it too...so dh and ds14 go back on it with her.me and ds10 sit and take a load off!!
Now it's time for lunch!! We are doing a TS...and goin' back to the 50s!!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/080.jpg
This was in the 'living room' where we waited about 2 minutes before our table was ready.We all got the Fried Chicken...it was fabulous..but waaaay too much food for one person! And Gracie got the chicken noodle soup with chicken nuggets...which was very good...better nuggets than some places at DW.For dessert...Mike got Apple Crisp and coffee, Saylor got a killer milkshake, Kipper got Raspberry Cheesecake and I got the Boston Creme Cupcake!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/081.jpg
Next up is TSMM!!!!!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/084.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/085.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/086.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/087.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/088.jpg
Notice the man in the picture...that shows how big Andy's room really is!!!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/097.jpg
continued in next post....

[Disney Mommy 3]

movin right along...Saylor in Andys room!! Ha!!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/102.jpg

Okay...well of course, we loooved TSMM...what a great idea that was! I just love the imagineers! don't you? So...after this, dh and the little 2 decide to go see LMA...which I have seen enough. I wish they would change it up! Oh well, Saylor and I decide to do TSMM again...line said 50 miutes..it was only 30..and I think the FP machines were already covered up by now. Next, we meet up for Beauty and the Beast...Mike and Saylor do NOT want to see this, so they go watch the street shows... I looooove Belle! She is a book-nerd just like me!!!!! By now, we are just deciding what else we want to do and watching the street shows.. I take the kids over to the pin station there on the corner and guess who finds me?
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/106.jpg
Sheree and her family!!!!! They were sooo sweet!! Poor Dave! He had to push a wheelchair and it was getting muggy...I know he was tired!! But he was just so happy about it!!! My kids love visiting with her kids..they are just so cute and sweet!! Next up was dinner...we were doing a CS, so we just went to one of the little places on the street down from RnRC...we all had something different.... I can't remember what we got...I forgot to write it down! So...we are now ready to meander over for Osborne Lights.....by the time it started, we had quite a crowd!! And it had started to sprinkle again!!! We walked around and looked for a bit...but by now we were getting tired and didn't want to leave with all those people!! So...we headed for the bus...this wait was very long! One of the longest we had the whole trip...so, now we are on the way back to the room finally. I was really tired...it was a long day...but a good day. So, we all get a bath and get in bed to watch some Disney channel! then we had to get back up so we could watch Wishes from the balconey. Random pics from today:
Me and Kipper waiting for the fam to do ToT
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/108.jpg

Waiting for Osborne Lights
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/123.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/124.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/127.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/129.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/130.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/131.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/132.jpg
That was just a few...with it starting to rain, I couldn't get as many good pics as I wanted! It was beautiful!! We wanted to go and hunt all the Hidden Mickeys...but it just didn't work out-but we did see quite a few..just didn't do the full-blown hunt... I think if we would have stayed later, we could have found them...the weather kinda cleared up...but I can't imagine how long the bus/boat rides back would have been!!! So, I hope you enjoyed traveling around the Studios with me!!!

[Disney Mommy 3]

Just an FYI...my hair doesn't usually look this bad!! ha!! I am in the growing out process with my bangs...I have had bangs my whole life and am now trying to grow them out...it is longer now than when we went...they are growing slower than I want.. but I can see a diff from looking at the pics with the kids...on to your regularly scheduled broadcast...

[Dancegrl624]

I love all of the pictures of the Osbourne Lights. A Christmas trip is definately in our future! I adore Christmas lights to begin with, but the Osbourne lights just give me goosebumps!!!!

[Mndisneygirl]

Okay, Shawna, I better get on with my TR - you're half a day ahead of me now!! I want to get to CRT on our next trip for sure! I really don't care what it costs or if it's a "good value". I just want to do it!

I was reading what you had to say about us and what Kim posted on the Snowbirds thread and I said to Dave, "gosh, we're really nice!" Thank you for the kind words. The feeling is mutual! It was so fun to text and meet up with you on this trip! I think we better plan another one at the same time!! I'm not sure I can go to WDW without you now! Two trips in a row!

I think your Osborne lights pictures are great!!! And your hair actually is very cute. If you hadn't said anything, I wouldn't have thought twice about it! :thumbsup2

[disneylovin24]

You and your daughter could be twins:cutie:

That raspberry cheesecake looks pretty good!!

[ladybugmom]

Your daughter is your mini-me!! (I bet you get that ALL the time--I do, too with my oldest DD) I had bangs my entire life until I decided to grow them out before my wedding (11 years ago). It seemed like it took FOREVER!!! But I'm so glad that I did it! I won't even cut bangs on my girls--I remember those bad trims my mom used to do on my bangs--YIKES!!! :scared1: Anywho, the Osborne Lights are AMAZING!!! Can't wait to see them when we go in Dec.!! WOW! :lovestruc And yay for DIS meets!! That is so cool that you got to meet Sheree and her girls! :goodvibes

[Disney Mommy 3]

I love all of the pictures of the Osbourne Lights. A Christmas trip is definately in our future! I adore Christmas lights to begin with, but the Osbourne lights just give me goosebumps!!!!

Yes..they are great!! I think everyone should go see the lights at Disney at least once!Okay, Shawna, I better get on with my TR - you're half a day ahead of me now!! I want to get to CRT on our next trip for sure! I really don't care what it costs or if it's a "good value". I just want to do it!

I was reading what you had to say about us and what Kim posted on the Snowbirds thread and I said to Dave, "gosh, we're really nice!" Thank you for the kind words. The feeling is mutual! It was so fun to text and meet up with you on this trip! I think we better plan another one at the same time!! I'm not sure I can go to WDW without you now! Two trips in a row!

I think your Osborne lights pictures are great!!! And your hair actually is very cute. If you hadn't said anything, I wouldn't have thought twice about it! :thumbsup2

I will have to post up a new picture when I finish my TR so you can see if you think the bangs are longer!! LOL!! yeah...ya'll are super!!I agree that we should go back again..together! I will call you when we decide and see if you can swing it! Of course, I wanna come up there so bad! I was telling Mike that I NEEDED to go next week when Kim came, but dang...I forgot his knee surgery is this Friday! He will have a follow-up at some point..we don't know when yet...but I think Minn is gonna be a summer trip..you know how bad I hate these summers---your climate would offer me some relief!You and your daughter could be twins:cutie:

That raspberry cheesecake looks pretty good!!

Thanks! I loooved the raspberry cheesecake..we all shared!Your daughter is your mini-me!! (I bet you get that ALL the time--I do, too with my oldest DD) I had bangs my entire life until I decided to grow them out before my wedding (11 years ago). It seemed like it took FOREVER!!! But I'm so glad that I did it! I won't even cut bangs on my girls--I remember those bad trims my mom used to do on my bangs--YIKES!!! :scared1: Anywho, the Osborne Lights are AMAZING!!! Can't wait to see them when we go in Dec.!! WOW! :lovestruc And yay for DIS meets!! That is so cool that you got to meet Sheree and her girls! :goodvibes
I think she's a mini-me also...but Mikes family and friends all think she looks just like him..but we have such similarities in our coloring and all I think that whoever she's with is who they think she looks like. Her face is shaped like his, but I think everything else is me! ha!!! yes...I remember the bang trims too!!!

[Momof2Disneyboys]

YAY for a DHS day!! :cool1: And woohoo for your first ever RNRC ride!! :woohoo:

It looks like you had a great day. Sorry the weather wasn't the best for the Osborne Lights.

Looking forward to more. . .popcorn::

[praisehisname]

We went straight to TSMM (about 9:20 or so by now) to get our FPs...return time is now afternoon! WOW! Oh well,.... I really would rather do that than sprint to the line!

Definitely!


I did see several elderly people ( with canes/walkers/wheelchairs) get off while we were waiting!

That is awesome...and so funny! :lmao:

Sounds like you had a wonderful day!

[klacey1]

Hi, Shawna! What a perfect DHS day! We always go in August, so I've never seen the Christmas decorations. The Osborne Lights just look spectacular.

[Disney Mommy 3]

YAY for a DHS day!! :cool1: And woohoo for your first ever RNRC ride!! :woohoo:

It looks like you had a great day. Sorry the weather wasn't the best for the Osborne Lights.

Looking forward to more. . .popcorn::

When I got on the ride I was thinking about you! I know how much you love it!Definitely!




That is awesome...and so funny! :lmao:

Sounds like you had a wonderful day!

that was really funny! I was shocked at first, then I got tickled!Hi, Shawna! What a perfect DHS day! We always go in August, so I've never seen the Christmas decorations. The Osborne Lights just look spectacular.
It was a great day! I don't know how you do August!!! I can't take the heat/humidity....

[Mndisneygirl]

My friend is at WDW now and she posted on FB that she thinks RNR is the best ride EVER!!! I'm so glad they're having fun - I gave them a bunch of info and tips and guidebooks. They're offsite.

Hope Mike's surgery goes well and the weather and driving doesn't cause you too much trouble. I'll send up an extra prayer for you!

[Mickey_Mom]

Hi there :wave: I'm planning a December 2010 trip around the same time you went and would like to hop on board your TR for fun and ideas! Actually Nov/Dec so hopefully we miss Pop Warner week ... your experience with that does not sound appealing at all! :eek: I'd have my DS15, his friend also 15, DD14, and DS5 with me.

I can't see any of your pics from work :mad: but I'm looking forward to seeing them. Too bad the MK rope drop didn't work out - twice! - My nighthawk family are never awake in time for rope drops :rolleyes: but how frustrating to have it fall thru like that after confirming it many times!

Your CRT meal sounds delicious and very different than our experience with it in 2007. We've gone three times to CRT - this will be our fifth trip since 2006 but we've always gone in Aug/Sept for the free dining - twice for breakfast and once for dinner. Breakfast with the princesses were both wonderful but our dinner with the Fairy Godmother was unfortunately horrible. We barely touched our food and were expecting the princesses to come out at any moment. (We weren't very observant with our booking and didn't notice it wasn't the princesses at every meal :upsidedow) I'm so glad to hear it was so much better for you! Maybe we'll try it again!

The refurbished Space Mountain is jerky now? Not good. I hate that... you come off with a headache! :headache:

I love TSM and the Aerosmith roller coaster. Beauty and the Beast is a must do for us and we still haven't been to 50's prime time! Can't wait to see the Osbourne lights!

popcorn::

EDIT: I've seen your pics now.... so great! I love your gingerbread shirt :laughing: and the lights do look incredible.

[Momof2Disneyboys]

When I got on the ride I was thinking about you! I know how much you love it!



Aw thanks, I feel so special. :goodvibes

I bet you were thinking -- why does that crazy woman love this ride so much, weren't you?! :laughing:


Hope things are going well for you today. :hug:

[Disney Mommy 3]

I did loooove RNR!! Well, we are home, things went great!!!!

[Mndisneygirl]

I did loooove RNR!! Well, we are home, things went great!!!!

Glad to hear it!! :thumbsup2:hug:

[Monny2AE]

Glad to hear all went well for Mike!

Love the DHS pics! Especially the TSM ones. Andy's room is decorated with such detail!

Good luck growing those bangs out. I was in your shoes a few years back and it seemed like it took forever for them to grow out. :headache:

[Northern Disney Girl]

All right Shawna! I am all caught up now! :cool1: You can go ahead and post another chapter! ;)

I too rode RnRc for the first (and second) time this trip!!!! :woohoo: I LOVED IT!!!!! :yay: The whole take off part kind of takes your breath away for a few secinds doesn't it? :eek:

LOVE :love: the pic of Kipper giving you a smooch on the cheek! So sweet! :hug: It is so easy to see that all 3 of your children just adore you to pieces! You must be one super Mama! :thumbsup2

[Disney Mommy 3]

All right Shawna! I am all caught up now! :cool1: You can go ahead and post another chapter! ;)

I too rode RnRc for the first (and second) time this trip!!!! :woohoo: I LOVED IT!!!!! :yay: The whole take off part kind of takes your breath away for a few secinds doesn't it? :eek:

LOVE :love: the pic of Kipper giving you a smooch on the cheek! So sweet! :hug: It is so easy to see that all 3 of your children just adore you to pieces! You must be one super Mama! :thumbsup2

Amen on that RNR comment!! But, i love it!!! Thanks~ we do love each other!!!:hug: Okay...I have been having those same old computer woes again...trying to get this TR finished today because when i take it back who knows how long it'll be this time!!! So...here we go!

[Disney Mommy 3]

DAY 3 Tues Dec 8

Okay...today is another MK day!! The kids and I were determined to make a RD!! So...we headed out without Dad!! He said he wasn't trying that again..and the early mornings are his quiet/down time...and so far he hadn't gotten any!! So, we made it!!! By Golly!!!! (*Due to the tech difficulties with this darn laptop, the pics will be minimal from this point out..sorry! After I get the light fixed I can add more!*)...We got to ride the horse-drawn trolley!!! A first, which was great! Then we saw the Fairy Godmother by Cinderellas fountain and took some pictures...then we rode Pooh twice---NO LINE!!! Can you believe it? Next we saw Donald Duck out by his Tree Farm and got a few pics with him
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/151-1.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/153-1.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/162.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/170.jpg
This was the first time we ever got to do pictures with Ariel!!! Next we met Mike and headed to the Haunted Mansion!! They all opted for Splash Mntn next--which I skipped!! Lunch that day was split up--Mike and Saylor headed to the Columbia Harbour House and me and the little two headed to Casey's!!! Next we hopped over to Epcot--got FPs for Soarin(time was after 6:30)...next we did the Behind the Seeds tour....If you haven't ever taken this tour and you get a chance you should do it. It really was very factual, but not boring--the kids loved it!!! I am soooo glad we did it!! Next was the Mexian Grand Fiesta boat ride. We had ressies at Nine Dragons that evening, so we walked over to China. We did get to see just a smidge of the chinese children acrobats. Those kids are unbelievable!! Another must see!! We then got our table and went to eat--by the time we finished dinner, Gracie wasn't feeling to good---I am wondering if it was something she ate--her tummy was a little nauseated,so I took her & Saylor back to the room. Kipper and Mike stayed for some together time and checking out Epcot.We were pretty tired, so we all took baths and went to bed pretty early. It did get to the upper 70s that day, so things are warming up!! We are pretty excited that we are getting in everything we want to do so far!!!!

[Disney Mommy 3]

Day 4 Wed Dec 9

Okay...we are heading over to Epcot today! We didn't plan any RD or 'have-to-be-there-time" for today. We got there around 10:15.Mike and the kids headed to Test Track--I found a spot to sit and watch people!!!! Also, I had to wander through MouseGears...don't you just looove that place?We kinda roamed around til lunchtime....we had ressies for the Rose & Crown at 12.
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/254.jpg
Anybody recognize this guy? Kim? He's the Santa from Canada!!!! He was getting ready to tell his story, but we would have missed our ressie time.SO, I just snapped a picture of him getting ready and kept walking. A few pictures of us outside at the R & C!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/256.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/257.jpg
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/258.jpg
Kipp got Bangers&Mash, Saylor got the Pub Burger, Me and Mike got the Fish & Chips, and Gracie got the kids cheese pizza. Of course, the Cheese Biscuits and the Potato Leek soup are the best things at Disney!!!! We looooove this place!! I didn't get any good food pics for some reason! And I was a little antsy because those cranes (birds) kept hopping around our table!:scared1:
Next we took time for some pictures, we got Mary Poppins and Alice, Pooh and Tigger, and Jasmine and Aladdin. By now it was getting quite warm! While we were doing autographs, Kipper got Mike to take him over to Germany and Train-Watch!! He was in 7th heaven:cloud9: We went back to the room for a break--we were gonna go back to MK for Spectro and Wishes around 6. But, once we got back we changed our minds!! We were just too tired to go back and fight the mob! So, we just hung around and the kids watched movies...Mike and Saylor wanted to roam around, so they took the CR boat over to the Wilderness Lodge. They got over there and fell in LOVE with the place...so they called and told us to get the next little boat and come over. So, we met them and looked at the rooms and the concierge suites. WOW!! It really is nice over there!! Headed back to the CR and got some CS dinner. Next, Sheree and Dave met us and we looked at each other's rooms. They were at the BLT...it's really nice over there...we loved the little skywalk/bridge! We were so glad to get to visit and spend some time with them!
They are soooo nice!!! They gave us a Viking's football ornament(which Saylor used as his ornament for this year!!) and we had fun just hanging out and visiting for a while. I was sorry that she was leaving the next day for her cruise. We had talked so many times (and texted) that I knew I was really gonna miss her when she left...and I did!! many times I saw something funny, or thought of something to tell her and was going to text her, then remembered she was gone!!!! But, I know the cruises are wonderful and her girls were soooo excited!! They are a a great family and we just love 'em to pieces!! Hi Sheree and family :goodvibes!!!! After this, we went back and got ready for bed...it was even warmer today---up to around 80!! so, we all got to enjoy the Florida sun after all!!!!!

[klacey1]

You got some great family pictures-- character pics, too! You guys really seemed to pack your days, well. So much got done!

[Disney Mommy 3]

You got some great family pictures-- character pics, too! You guys really seemed to pack your days, well. So much got done!

Thanks! I did have lots more Character photos...but I just couldn't post them all. We really do try to get it all in!!Ha!! We tend to find the things we like and do them as many times as possible--weed out everything else....much more fun that way:cutie:

[Northern Disney Girl]

Great updates Shawna! :goodvibes I have never seen Santa wear a plaid shirt before! That is too funny! All the "Santa'S we have up here look just like the Original! Red suit, black boots, etc! Can't wait to read more! :cool1:

[Momof2Disneyboys]

Great updates Shawna! :goodvibes Looks like you were having so much fun, and eating so much good food, and yay for the weather warming up! :cool1:

[klacey1]

We tend to find the things we like and do them as many times as possible--weed out everything else....much more fun that way:cutie:

That's the best way to do Disney! :goodvibes

[Disney Mommy 3]

Hey!! I am here for about 2 minutes until the laptop screen goes out again!!! Ha!! I will hopefully post a new update this afternoon with Mikes laptop...won't have pics tho! We are still getting ice on the ground in the nights here...I know you snow bound people are probably really sick of it by now! All our stores are stocking the Easter decor! So..til this afternoon---have a wonderful day!

[Mndisneygirl]

Bummer about your computer issues! Girl, you got to get them fixed, we miss you!!!

[Northern Disney Girl]

HA!!! We had an "Above Zero" day today here in Northern Ontairo! All our ice and snow is melting! :laughing: Not for long tho, I think we are supposed to get some more this weekend! It WAS a lovely day today tho! I walked to get the girls from school in just a polar fleece jacket and light mittens!! Love days like that in February! :thumbsup2

Hope all your PC issues get cleared up soon! :hug:

[Disney Mommy 3]

Day 5 Thursday Dec 5

Okay!! Today is the slow/laundry/play day. I sorted laundry and Mike took the kids to the pool. I was there for quite some time...the dryers were clogged up-they sent someone to fix them and it speeded it up a bit. Between loads and went and sat with Mike and watched the kids for a bit. It started getting dark and the tiny sprinkles soon turned to a full blown rain. I know this has happened the last 3 times---very weird---the day I schedule for pool/laundry it rains!! they get to swim for about an hour and the bottom falls out!! Well, at least we aren't in the parks!!! So...we just hung around the room...watched movies, had lunch and took naps. We had dinner ressies at Tonys...took some character pics..did Monsters Inc, Buzz, Space mtn and the people mover!! We enjoyed our dinner at Tonys immensely!! As usual!! We were considering doing the MVMCP that night, but decided against it--the weather was gloomy and we didnt really want to spend the $$$. They really wanted to go just for the hot cocoa and gingerbread cookies!! So...we went back to the room and Mike went to the CR gym and worked out! So ends our 5th day!!

[Mndisneygirl]

I need more detail about what you thought of Tony's. We tried to get in there for our Sunday before MVMCP, but couldn't. I was so surprised!

Bummer that the kids didn't get to swim much. I bet it was nice to just hang out and relax though. Did it rain most of the day? That's the day we got on the ship and it was pretty dreary and windy for most of the day.

[Northern Disney Girl]

Yes PLEASE more detail about Tony's!!!! I really want to try that one on our next trip! Details Please!!!!! :worship:

[Disney Mommy 3]

Day 6 Friday Dec 11

Today is a fun day...Mike and Saylor start off with a parasail!!!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/305.jpg

At this highest point they are higher than the CR!!! It was sooo cold--I wanted to do it, but not in that wind---definitely something to do on a hot day!! Just waiting in this pic for the parasail boat and Capt
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/292.jpg

After this we headed to DHS--watched some street people---found a new entertainer named Vladimir Pooey---he was hysterical!! Walked around a bit then went to Toy Story Pizza Planet...mikes first time here. He is usually at the Lunch with Imagineers for lunch at DHS so we head to Pizza Planet. It was ok-i am thinking I am tired of that place! Ha!!We rode some rides..had to to RNR a few more times!! Took the kids to get faces painted and I even did one--Kippers is a dragon--reminds me of Maleficent at the end of Sleeping Beauty. Gracie got a butterfly and I did a Christmas one--Miss Mistletoe that says Kiss Me!!!!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/312.jpg

http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/313-2.jpg

http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/315.jpg

http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/316-1.jpg

We left around 3:45, took a boat to Epcot for dinner ressies. We were eating tonight at the Garden Grill--we really enjoy eating here. It was sprinkling at this point and getting a little cooler.YIKES!!
After dinner we went to Spaceship Earth---we encountered more Pee Wee footballers and Cheerleaders here...trying to cut in line, pouring out cokes all over the ground, yelling and screaming. While -might I add- the adults just stood around talking. Very frustrating..... When we finished the ride we headed in...tonight is our last night at the CR. wondering why we are packing a day early? Stay Tuned!!:3dglasses

[Disney Mommy 3]

I need more detail about what you thought of Tony's. We tried to get in there for our Sunday before MVMCP, but couldn't. I was so surprised!

Bummer that the kids didn't get to swim much. I bet it was nice to just hang out and relax though. Did it rain most of the day? That's the day we got on the ship and it was pretty dreary and windy for most of the day.

It was nice to just do what we wanted--look in the stores and candy shop as long as we wanted!!! Ha!! The weather was colder for sure---the wind with that drizzle made it pretty yucky. Not freezing, but you just could not shake the chill.
Yes PLEASE more detail about Tony's!!!! I really want to try that one on our next trip! Details Please!!!!! :worship:

TONYS:We always enjoy it. The panninis and Minestrone soup is always great! I never get anything with sausage... I veer to chicken or whatever..Mike gets the sausage-y stuff and loves it!! The kids like their menu selections too. The desserts are good...kinda the same as what most TS desserts are offered..tiramusu (SP?) chocolate, and even a pistachio something..can't remember. We did get the calzone once and it was great. I totally forgot we had all got this trip--thought I journaled it but i didnt. I would say to try it at least once...plus the kids can sit and watch Lady & the Tramp in the little foyer while you are waiting.

[Disney Mommy 3]

Day 7 Sat Dec 12

It's our last full day and it's also....MOVING DAY!! My hunny fell in love with the Wilderness Lodge!! Kim.. I thought of you and Ken!! First we had breakfast scheduled at Chef Mickeys. Then we finished packing and headed over to check into WL. We had to fork out a bit extra and do a larger room, but we looooooved it!! We have never stayed here because they don't allow 5 in standard room like the other deluxes, but for one night we were willing!
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/373.jpg

http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/375.jpg

http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/376.jpg

http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/377.jpg

http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/383.jpg

http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/381.jpg

http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/384.jpg

http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/385.jpg

We were gonna do the bounceback...but, alas we didn't. And now we kick ourselves in the behind. Here is the stupid reason why we didn't. We have been considering taking other vacation...GASP!!!! We really want to take the kids to some of the other great places in our country, and even a European vacation. We have considered Colorado this March,,, then New York in Late April. But....since we got back, we have went back and forth. Really, you don't get your $$$$ worth like you do at Disney! Not with the guarantee that your ENTIRE family is gonna enjoy the trip. I for one am not sure me and the little 2 would like NY,and they said they do NOT want to go to Europe at this point. I think they are a little young, but if we decide to do it, they would like it!! But, there isn't the excitement like there would be centered around a Disney trip. So....I am looking at ....NOVEMBER!!! The CM at one of the things Mike went to this time told him the slowest time now is the week before Thanksgiving..has been for the last few years...so that is our consideration...and either a split at BC and WL or just WL...depends on how good of a discount we could get. I haven't gotten any pin codes since we got home.
Okay...breakfast was ok...the kids love all the hoopla, so that was good..I am not a big morning eater so it felt like a waste for me(just my part..every one else ate great!). After we got to the WL we took the bus to DTD...now you may know that I was sooooo looking forward to this:
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/362-1.jpg
But they were closed due to the weather. What weather? It was a great day!!! Sooo disappointed...I had kept that a secret since July!!!!!Bummer. So, we went to eat at Wolf Gang Pucks...and it was pretty good. Not super fab...but pretty good..for some reason I was getting quite a headache so I think that made my opinion a little shaded. Mike and the kids liked theirs, so ignore my opinion!!!Next we had to take my little Kipper to:
http://i850.photobucket.com/albums/ab68/shawk3/364.jpg

Legoland! Does that little face not just scream " I am in Heaven"!!? So...he got the biiiig train and was thrilled!! Me and Gracie found the Little MisMatch store!! TOOO cute! Next we all go to the Big Toy store...the World of Disney. I think.. I never seem to get that name right!LOL!! Anyhoo...Saylor got some POTC stuff, and large Mickey Mouse houseshoes!! Love 'em!
Gracie got her Lady doggie and a collar for her,a Marie journal and a pen. I found some Mickey measuring spoons and cups. Then I found me and Gracie a set of aprons!! Mines green with Minnies that says Queen of the Castle and hers is pink and says domestic princess!! I will try to take a picture later and repost it. They are sooo cute! Mike got a cap and a new coffee mug with Goofy. then various stuff for the family and friends back home. Now we head back to the fabulous WL...we had used up our CS credits and for dinner we had the food set out in the Concierge lounge.Boy, was that a treat!! Veggies, dips, cheeses, soft drinks....later they brought out cookies and milk!!! the kids checked out some dvds and brought them to the room. We laid out clothes for the last half day and repacked....at this point --after all the concierge treatment, Mike decides we really should stay longer!! Ha!! I was alll for that, but we had to leave...but I know we will be back quicker than what he said when we left for this trip!

[Mndisneygirl]

Wow! What fun! We're thinking WL is on our list now too! As I read the update about "leaving early" I wanted to shout "I KNOW WHY!!!"
Great pictures!
I'm sorry you didn't get to do the balloon ride. I think you should go back at the end of July with us! you could do BC then and then in November go for WL! Aren't I nice and helpful, spending your money for you, planning your trips to coincide with mine? I'm pretty sure we won't be going in November. Although if I had my way, I'd go in November and February every year.

You mentioned NYC and Colorado, but I didn't see anything about Minnesota???? What's up with that??? Girl - I've got plans for us!

I can't wait to hear what you decide to do next!

[KidaniMom]

I'm enjoying your TR. We are also a family of five - two boys 11, 5 and a daughter 8 yrs old. We will be there in August. We can't wait. We have been there the last two years in a row and we are getting truly addicted. I agree with you that it is hard to find a better vacation spot that DW - where you know the whole family will have fun.

Thanks for you reports and pictures!

[Disney Mommy 3]

Wow! What fun! We're thinking WL is on our list now too! As I read the update about "leaving early" I wanted to shout "I KNOW WHY!!!"
Great pictures!
I'm sorry you didn't get to do the balloon ride. I think you should go back at the end of July with us! you could do BC then and then in November go for WL! Aren't I nice and helpful, spending your money for you, planning your trips to coincide with mine? I'm pretty sure we won't be going in November. Although if I had my way, I'd go in November and February every year.

You mentioned NYC and Colorado, but I didn't see anything about Minnesota???? What's up with that??? Girl - I've got plans for us!

I can't wait to hear what you decide to do next!

Well,..you know I can't do disney in the summer!! got that humidity problem! Ha!! If I come see you I want to come in the summertime!!!! Gracie wants to also! My little shopper--we want to do the AG thing..and Kipper of course wants the Lego store. So...Minn. would definitely be a summer trip- I personally would rather go do that than NYC. I don't know if we will even do Colorado----we say we are going every year and never do!I'm enjoying your TR. We are also a family of five - two boys 11, 5 and a daughter 8 yrs old. We will be there in August. We can't wait. We have been there the last two years in a row and we are getting truly addicted. I agree with you that it is hard to find a better vacation spot that DW - where you know the whole family will have fun.

Thanks for you reports and pictures!

Your Welcome! It is addicting! They know what they are doing!;) Glad you found me--hope your trip in August is wonderful!

[Dancegrl624]

Well,..you know I can't do disney in the summer!! got that humidity problem! Ha!! If I come see you I want to come in the summertime!!!! Gracie wants to also! My little shopper--we want to do the AG thing..and Kipper of course wants the Lego store. So...Minn. would definitely be a summer trip- I personally would rather go do that than NYC. I don't know if we will even do Colorado----we say we are going every year and never do!


Buffalo is always a great place to visit too. :goodvibes Niagara Falls is only 20 minutes from my house!

[Mndisneygirl]

Well,..you know I can't do disney in the summer!! got that humidity problem! Ha!! If I come see you I want to come in the summertime!!!! Gracie wants to also! My little shopper--we want to do the AG thing..and Kipper of course wants the Lego store. So...Minn. would definitely be a summer trip- I personally would rather go do that than NYC. I don't know if we will even do Colorado----we say we are going every year and never do!


Buffalo is always a great place to visit too. :goodvibes Niagara Falls is only 20 minutes from my house!

Well, not to start a big competition, but I think you both and Kim (Northern Disney Girl) should all come to MN!! It's probably the same distance for both of you, we all have girls the same ages, (Sorry Kipper/Saylor, you're out of luck!), we would have so much fun!!!
Niagara Falls is great though! We stopped there in July 2007 on our way to Albany NY.

[Disney Mommy 3]

OOOHHHH Kim!! they are fighting over us!! ha!!!:) Well...I would rather go to Niagra Falls than NYC!!! I just am not a crowd/big city girl....I would like to see the Statue of Liberty...but I don't want to do a whole vacation just for that! I guess I am weird!!!!

[Dancegrl624]

Well, not to start a big competition, but I think you both and Kim (Northern Disney Girl) should all come to MN!! It's probably the same distance for both of you, we all have girls the same ages, (Sorry Kipper/Saylor, you're out of luck!), we would have so much fun!!!
Niagara Falls is great though! We stopped there in July 2007 on our way to Albany NY.

We would love to come to MN! However, with 4 weddings this year (and hopefully a trip to Disney) I don't think it's possible. I think that all of our girls would have a blast!!

OOOHHHH Kim!! they are fighting over us!! ha!!!:) Well...I would rather go to Niagra Falls than NYC!!! I just am not a crowd/big city girl....I would like to see the Statue of Liberty...but I don't want to do a whole vacation just for that! I guess I am weird!!!!

I went to NYC on a school trip when I was 15 yrs old. I'd love to go back, but it's pretty pricey. I'd rather spend my money somewhere else. It's a very cool city, but it moves at a very fast pace. The Canadian side of Niagara Falls is WAY better than the American side. Much more to do and many more places to stay.

[Disney Mommy 3]

Last Day...Sunday Dec 13

Well, we ate breakfast at the concierge lounge....They had breads, fruits , muffins, juices...it was all we needed to get going.After we ate, we went back and finished up the luggage/backpacks...took it down to the bell hop and said goodbye to the WL:sad1: We really enjoyed our one night there and want to go back. We went to MK--TGM had forecasted low crowds---BUSY!! We were shocked! But, we had some rides we really wanted to do again and we went over to Tom Sawyers Island. I tell you what..it was hot! We had run the gammot of weather this week and it was definitely warm while we were on that island...all we could think about was getting a drink! It was time for lunch, so we wandered around to see what TS places were not crowded. The answer...TONYS!!! We got to eat there one last time! We had a wonderful little waitress...I think her name was Stephanie and she was originally from New York.
We had to buy a few more things! Gracie finally got one of those parasols with her name painted on it!! It really turned out pretty..Saylor got a POTC t shirt..can't remember what all we got..some rice krispie mickeys!!!!
We hopped on the ME bus and headed out. How depressing. That is always when I get antsy...trying not to cry!!! We were dropped off an hour and 40 minutes before our plane was due----then we see the board that says:
DELAYED:scared1:. We were scheduled to be in Houston at 7:30...we didn't board til after that time...then we had to sit on the plane while they went over a log. Something had malfunctioned that morning in Alaska...and they were still checking it!!!!! We should have just been put on another plane...they gave us food vouchers to use while we waited at the airport. Got to Houston at 9 and COULD NOT find the car!!! We didn't realize the level we parked on was actually #rd for two levels!!!! It was kind of a split level thing...real weird...only on the level we parked at!! And it was freezing in Houston..and we had shorts on!!!! We didn't get back home til almost 1 a.m. We were sooooo tired!!!!! But,,, we sure had a good time~!!! It's sooo hard getting back to the real world after all that!!!!
We really need to sit down and decide what we really want to do for vacation time this year.....I really feel like we will take Saylor to NYC....I am up for Disney when the weather is good. Summer trips are not for me. Can't handle that heat or the crowds. So...I think we are looking most assuredly to the week before Thanksgiving(or there abouts) ....If we stay at WL we have to get a good room discount..if not, we may start there and after 2 or 3 days, move to the BC. Neither place is to complain about!!!!!
Thanks for hanging with me...it took me waaayyy longer than I intended---but we had some glitches!!! Feel free to ask me anything about our resorts or food or whatever!!!!! Hopefully by this summer I will be starting a PTR!!!!:yay:

[Momof2Disneyboys]

Great update! How fun that you got to experience a new resort!

I have to agree with you about other vacation destinations not being as great a deal as Disney is. I have researched and priced out things (because like you I want the kids to experience new things), but in the end Disney is always the winner! It's too risky to spend all that money to go somewhere else and possibly be disappointed (and wishing you were at Disney). I do plan to do NYC and to get out west at some point, but for now we are a Disney family!!

And yes, November is an excellent time to go!! :thumbsup2 The only thing wrong with it is that it is not Value season! Not sure why. :confused3 We went the 2nd week in November last year and it was so awesome that we are doing it again this year!! :goodvibes:cool1:

[Disney Mommy 3]

We would love to come to MN! However, with 4 weddings this year (and hopefully a trip to Disney) I don't think it's possible. I think that all of our girls would have a blast!!



I went to NYC on a school trip when I was 15 yrs old. I'd love to go back, but it's pretty pricey. I'd rather spend my money somewhere else. It's a very cool city, but it moves at a very fast pace. The Canadian side of Niagara Falls is WAY better than the American side. Much more to do and many more places to stay.

I have heard that about the Canadian side from everyone I know who has been! I agree with you totally about the NYC thing...I really thought about sending Mike & Saylor together for a Father-Son weekend. Wouldn't that be awesome!! He is 14 and he is SUCH a great kid!! He reeeaaaally craves time with just Mike---he's at that age where he needs to be with his Dad..makes me sad for all the little boys that don't have it. I am blessed with such a good guy!!! He is a wonderful Christian man setting a fantastic example for our kids....so I think they would both benefit from it. Saylors birthday is in Dec(you might remember!), so them doing something like that for his birthday sounds good..but prices go up for Holiday rates and the weather is usually nasty. I thought mid-Spring would be perfect...before the public schools and colleges let out....then when Kipper gets older they can go somewhere that he would enjoy. I know lots of families that do this and it's one of the greatest memories the kids have. Each kid is sooo different that I always try to do little 'date nights' with each one so they can do just what they want. I will be glad when we all get over this sickness that has been going around....we are all due for a mommy date!!!! TTFN my friends!!!

[Momof2Disneyboys]

Okay, my last post was about the previous update. You snuck another update in there on me in the meantime!!

Sorry about the plane delay and troubles finding your car.

It sounds like you had a wonderful vacation ~ Thanks so much for sharing it with us! :goodvibes Looking forward to hearing what you decide about your next trip!

[Disney Mommy 3]

Shelly...I agree...the idea of taking a trip and one of us not enjoying it is sickening!! For us (being 5)..it's sooo much money for a really good vacation. Most deals are offered for a family of 4....I know Saylor is getting to the age he wants different travel..but the other 2 could care less...they just want Disney! I think I have created a Disney Monster! I know our plans aren't definite..but I am gonna go ahead and make a 'wishful thinking' ticker! I will tweak it when we are sure..but it looks soooo bare without one!

[Dancegrl624]

I have heard that about the Canadian side from everyone I know who has been! I agree with you totally about the NYC thing...I really thought about sending Mike & Saylor together for a Father-Son weekend. Wouldn't that be awesome!! He is 14 and he is SUCH a great kid!! He reeeaaaally craves time with just Mike---he's at that age where he needs to be with his Dad..makes me sad for all the little boys that don't have it. I am blessed with such a good guy!!! He is a wonderful Christian man setting a fantastic example for our kids....so I think they would both benefit from it. Saylors birthday is in Dec(you might remember!), so them doing something like that for his birthday sounds good..but prices go up for Holiday rates and the weather is usually nasty. I thought mid-Spring would be perfect...before the public schools and colleges let out....then when Kipper gets older they can go somewhere that he would enjoy. I know lots of families that do this and it's one of the greatest memories the kids have. Each kid is sooo different that I always try to do little 'date nights' with each one so they can do just what they want. I will be glad when we all get over this sickness that has been going around....we are all due for a mommy date!!!! TTFN my friends!!!


That sounds wonderful! I think a father/son trip is an excellent idea. I used to love going little places separately with my mom or my dad when I was little. I think a mid Spring trip sounds like a good time to go to NYC. It definately will be cheaper and less crowded than the holidays.

[Mndisneygirl]

You took longer than expected???? What about me? Girl, I'm still going on my TR. Dragging it out and neglecting it for a week at a time! LOL

Hopefully tonight or tomorrow I'll at least get another update up. I still have 2 1/2 days of cruise left to do!

I'm not crazy about going to WDW in summer either, but the trip to the beach was basically given to us, we just have to get there. It was our choice to sneak over to WDW too. I'm going to pack a super size box of sudafed! My sinuses will be nuts. But I was not going to say no to DH when he said let's come back!

I think the trip for Mike and Saylor sounds awesome! I'm hoping as my girls grow, I will take them each to do some special things. Right now they want to do a lot together (mostly out of not wanting to be left out rather than wanting to be with each other), but I'm trying to encourage them to follow their own paths.

Seriously though, anytime other than our FL trip you are more than welcome to come up to MN. We will show you a great time!!!

I can't believe your trip is done -- bummer about your flight delays and losing the car!!! I'll be keeping an eye for a new PTR from you !!

[tbenny]

Thank you for a great trip report :thumbsup2
I have a 10 yo ds and a 6 yo dd! My dd will be 7 the end of April the day we come home how about your dd for 7?
We are going to BLT in April so i really liked reading your report.
My kids have never been I can't wait to see their reaction :love:

[Mndisneygirl]

Thank you for a great trip report :thumbsup2
I have a 10 yo ds and a 6 yo dd! My dd will be 7 the end of April the day we come home how about your dd for 7?
We are going to BLT in April so i really liked reading your report.
My kids have never been I can't wait to see their reaction :love:


You should come read my TR - we just stayed at BLT (same time they were at CR) and there's a bunch of pictures. The link is in my sig.
I hope you have an awesome trip - the pool is great!

[Disney Mommy 3]

Sheree~ I just felt that my updates were sooooo behind!! Ha!! I was glad to find that suburban let me tell you!! We were so cold we were shaking! It was soo windy up in that parking garage! YOW!!! I can see where your girls would want to go on trips together..they are still young and enjoy the same things still...I am trying to decide if I need to talk Mike into a Disney cruise..so keep it up!
Tbenny..my ds10 will be 11 in May and dd is 7 on April 4th..so they are very close!! How funny!!! You are gonna have a wonderful time~ Is the flower thing gonna be going on at Epcot while you are there? We were there one year in May, kinda toward the end of it and it was beautiful!

[ladybugmom]

Hi Shawna!! Sorry I've been MIA--things have been soo busy around here! I hate that your TR is ending. It's been great getting to know you and your family.

I think it's great that you got to stay at the WL your last night at WDW!!! That is where we're plannning on staying when we go in Nov/Dec. We're looking at going the week after Thanksgiving! I'm so glad that you enjoyed your stay there!! :goodvibes

[Northern Disney Girl]

Well, not to start a big competition, but I think you both and Kim (Northern Disney Girl) should all come to MN!! It's probably the same distance for both of you, we all have girls the same ages, (Sorry Kipper/Saylor, you're out of luck!), we would have so much fun!!!
Niagara Falls is great though! We stopped there in July 2007 on our way to Albany NY.

Well, I think it is a little farther for them than for me but I am TOTALLY GAME!!!! Girl right now, my summer is EMPTY!!!!! I needs me a trip to plan!!! :cool1:

Shawna, keep watching those airfare! We JUST HAVE to have a girls retreat/reunion weekend! IT WOULD be SO MUCH FUN!!!!! :banana:




Seriously though, anytime other than our FL trip you are more than welcome to come up to MN. We will show you a great time!!!




Oh Shawna, you would so LOVE Northen Minnesota!! It is so beautiful!!! It would be such a reprieve for your poor sinuses and Summer sadness! You just HAVE to get up here girl!!! Keep watvhing those airfares!! :cool1:

[praisehisname]

I really enjoyed reading your report; thanks for sharing it! I hope you can work it out to go back in November. :goodvibes

[Monny2AE]

Sorry you didn't get to ride the balloon in DTD. Just another reason to go back ASAP!!! :thumbsup2

What a fiasco coming home- late plane, lost car, cold weather. Way to get thrown out of the magic and right back to reality. :sad2:

[Disney Mommy 3]

Exactly!! You can tell you are away from the magic the minute they drop you off at the airport!!! Ha!!!