A Double Dose of Disney Fun-2 Pre-Trip Reports in 1!

[stace208]

Hi Everyone and welcome to my first ever Pre-Trip report! I have so much going on right now, both in real life and Disney life that I am hoping that this pretrippie will help me keep it all together! I'm also hoping that I'll have some readers that will help me pass the next few months quickly!.:goodvibes
First up, let me give you some background about me and the fam...
I'm Stacy, mom and 2nd grade teacher. I'm 38 but will have a birthday here soon. I am the Disney planning nut and just love anything and everything about going to Disney (well, except maybe the drive ;))
Here's a picture of me from last June at Chef Mickey's. My DS is at the bottom of the pic too.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_2217.jpg

Next up is my DH, John, also 38. He likes Disney too but is way more reserved about it. I have to *convince* him to go on our trips but soon enough he is excited too. He lets me make most of the decisions but chimes in on food! I am sad to say that I don't have a really good picture of just him-must remedy that this trip. So, here's one of the whole family.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Image010.jpg

Ben is my DS, 9. Ben is almost always happy. He's my happy go lucky, always making jokes, crazy kid. He is a great student but doesn't like school very much. His favorite character is Goofy and he loves Star Wars. He's gotten really into video games this year. He swims on a swim team but is losing interest in that. So, this seems to be a year of transitions for him. He is still crazy for Disney though!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Image028.jpg

Ellie is 7 and my sweet baby girl. She is the opposite of her brother-very quiet and shy. She too is a very happy kid but doesn't *advertise* it like her brother-she's much more reserved. She is a good student and loves school. It's interesting this year because she is in the class across the hall so I get to see her quite often. She too is Disney crazy and her favorite characters are Minnie and Tigger.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_2212-1.jpg
Here's another picture or two:
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_2215.jpg
This is one my faves-I :love:Sorcerer Mickey!(My niece and fam are in this pic-they were with us last June)
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Image068.jpg
I think that about does it for introductions! Trip details coming in the next post!!
Thanks for reading along and please join in!!

[stace208]

Trip 1 has quite a history...
Last year, around this time, I was in major Disney withdrawals. I was back to teaching after 6 years off and although I was having an ok year, I needed something to look forward to and June seemed sooooo far away. So, I started pricing trips for Spring Break. Disney had a special, something about kids play and dine for free but airfare was scary!:scared1: John claimed he didn't have any vacation time to take so I would have to fly (not making a 12+ hour car trip by myself). The flight prices were a deal breaker, unfortunately!:sad2:
So I set to work and planned some other things for spring break. We went to Great Wolf Lodge, Potomac Mills (huge outlet mall-with Disney store;)), and Mt. Vernon. Although it wasn't my beloved Disney it helped me get through the winter doldrums. After spring break I could get excited for our June trip!!

June trip came-had a blast. During our trip and all summer long we debated about buying DVC. Finally I convinced John and as summer ended, we started in earnest looking for something that met our needs. We decided to go resale because we could get the most points for our buck. We researched resorts and decided on OKW. We like many of the other resorts too and if we are able to get them at 7 months, great. But by buying in OKW we were able to get more points than anywhere else. We love the atmosphere there too and will be more than happy to stay there!!

DVC in hand, I was ready to start planning some trips! I wanted to go at Christmas but couldn't get John on board. So, I started again aiming for Spring Break. At this point, I could get cheap flights so I told him I was going with or without him!! Soon enough he was on board with going. Now I hadn't told the kids about the trip because they had gotten really disappointed that we weren't going at Christmas so I didn't want them to feel bad again if the trip didn't come to fruition. After John wised up I decided to leave it a surprise! Well, wouldn't you know it, in a matter of days, flight prices had skyrocketed!:scared1: John said no prob, we would just drive. Now, we drive in the summer. I don't mind because I like having the car and we're not under much of a time constraint. But this was going to be a quick trip and I wanted to maximize my park time. So, I kept looking. Then one day, for some reason, :idea:I thought to look for flights out of Dulles (John's sister lives in Northern VA-45 minutes from Dulles) Sure enough, $54 flights, nonstop, to MCO. One small glitch-it got us there very late-8:15. But, the price couldn't be beat, I wouldn't have to pack in secret as the kids would think we were going to Aunt Laura's for spring break, we'd get to spend Easter with Laura and her family and I didn't have to drive.:thumbsup2 John was totally on board with this plan and we booked the flights! Yay!!

TRIP #1 Dates: April 4th (Easter Sunday) to April 8th!!

[Queenofallthings]

Great startpopcorn::

[stace208]

Great startpopcorn::

:welcome: Thanks so much for joining in!

[stace208]

So, on with trip #1:
DVC contract-Done:thumbsup2
ROFR-Passed:dance3:
Flights-Booked:cheer2:
Where would we stay???

We had already decided to stay at OKW for our long summer trip. John was fine to stay there for April too but I really wanted to go somewhere else. I wanted AKL but was open to hearing what else was available. I waited a week to give Disney time to get our points in the system and then I called. First thing I did was bank the points we got from our contract into 2010. Then I booked our summer trip. Then I asked for AKL for April. I could get Kidani for 2 of the nights (6-7th) but would have to be waitlisted for the other two nights. So, I asked, "What else is available". Now as much as I wanted to stay at AKL, what he said next really sealed the deal for me.
So, are you wondering where????
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSCN0695.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSCN0694.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSCN0697.jpg
Wilderness Lodge!! 1 BR villa available for all 4 nights. Yes, it is more points but it is also Ben's favorite resort. We stayed here on our first trip in January 2006. I took it! I stayed waitlisted for AKL but called back a few weeks later and cancelled that. I will get to AKL someday but right now it is Wilderness for us!!

[MeMom]

Looking forward to following along with you! :)

By the way, in case you didn't see on our TR already, I'm also a second-grade teacher, as is wigd.

[wigdoutdismom]

Reporting for your new PTR and going back to read!

[MHTeacher]

Great start. :)

Congrats on you DVC..I would LOVE to do this, but DH is such a party pooper sometimes. ;) Also, gotta love the WL. We stayed there in 2005 and fell in love. Since then, we became guardians of my 7 year old nephew, so now we have to do a resort that sleeps 5.

I'll be looking forward to reading more! :thumbsup2

[MeMom]

Note that all the teachers are enjoying our day away from school as we gather 'round the Disboards! :laughing:

[wigdoutdismom]

All caught up Stacy!
Aren't 2nd graders fun?:dance3:
Congrats on your points! We love your home resort and have stayed there twice, be sure to request close to the general store. It's a great area!
Have you written a trip report? I think I've followed....
Looking forward to more!

[wsushocker]

subbing

[wsushocker]

Looking forward to following along with you! :)

By the way, in case you didn't see on our TR already, I'm also a second-grade teacher, as is wigd.

I taught 2nd grade for 2 years! :yay:

[MHTeacher]

Note that all the teachers are enjoying our day away from school as we gather 'round the Disboards! :laughing:

LOVING my day off! :thumbsup2

[stace208]

Looking forward to following along with you! :)

By the way, in case you didn't see on our TR already, I'm also a second-grade teacher, as is wigd.

Yay! MeMom is here!! Thanks for coming over!!:cool1:

2nd grade is THE grade this year! I've been following along on Anita's and your trip reports and love having folks in similar situations as me in "real" life in addition to our love of Disney!!

Reporting for your new PTR and going back to read!

Woohoo!! Thanks for coming over Wigd!:yay:

Great start. :)

Congrats on you DVC..I would LOVE to do this, but DH is such a party pooper sometimes. ;) Also, gotta love the WL. We stayed there in 2005 and fell in love. Since then, we became guardians of my 7 year old nephew, so now we have to do a resort that sleeps 5.

I'll be looking forward to reading more! :thumbsup2

Thank you and welcome!:woohoo: I was debating whether to start a PTR but decided to just take the plunge. Thanks for joining in!
Trust me, getting my DH to agree to DVC was something. He wouldn't even go on the tour last June. Really, it wasn't until I started following wigd's TR last summer and talked to her about resale that I got him interested. When he started pricing resale he realized that it could work for us!

Note that all the teachers are enjoying our day away from school as we gather 'round the Disboards! :laughing:

Oh yes, I am LOVING:love: this day off! We took an afternoon trip to the zoo. I tried to pretend I was at AK (big stretch as our zoo is very small);)

All caught up Stacy!
Aren't 2nd graders fun?:dance3:
Congrats on your points! We love your home resort and have stayed there twice, be sure to request close to the general store. It's a great area!
Have you written a trip report? I think I've followed....
Looking forward to more!

2nd graders are a blast, most of the time!! They keep me on my toes for sure! I have an interesting bunch this year but they are all sweet kids which is something I don't get most years!

Our reservation is listed for "close to Hospitality House". Is that where the General Store is? The MS DVC guy encouraged me to put that on my reservation so hopefully that is good?? I am excited to stay there. I think we might go over in April and check it out in person!:thumbsup2

I did write a TR last summer. Then I went on 2 vacations and it got lost/closed:confused3 I learned later that I could've asked for it to be reopened but I was mostly done and had a rough start to the school year so the Dis kinda got lowered on my list. Got a handle on everything and back into full Dis mode now!:goodvibes

subbing

Woohoo! Shocker is HERE! NOW it is a party!:banana:

I taught 2nd grade for 2 years! :yay:

I know you taught K, and now also 2nd at some point. What do you teach currently?

LOVING my day off! :thumbsup2

Wonderful, isn't it?? It's beautiful here today too-sunny and mid 50's.:thumbsup2

[SoonerGirl]

Hi Stacy, I'm jumping on board to hear all about your trip(s)! Congrats on getting your DH to agree to DVC - think you could get him to give mine a call and convince him of what a fabulous idea it is??? :laughing:

[stace208]

Hi Stacy, I'm jumping on board to hear all about your trip(s)! Congrats on getting your DH to agree to DVC - think you could get him to give mine a call and convince him of what a fabulous idea it is??? :laughing:

Hi Michelle!:welcome: Thanks for coming over!

We better wait a month or two on that phone call...they just pulled our first month of dues out of the checking account:eek: Now my DH needs that shirt that you gave yours about bring Grumpy back!:rotfl:

[SoonerGirl]

Hi Michelle!:welcome: Thanks for coming over!

We better wait a month or two on that phone call...they just pulled our first month of dues out of the checking account:eek: Now my DH needs that shirt that you gave yours about bring Grumpy back!:rotfl:

Oh no!!!!

[wigdoutdismom]

Never mind.....
It's the hospitality house :rotfl2:
You are taken care of! You will love it there, it's soooo laid back!
Close to the big pool. Shuffle board. The counter service, out by the pool, community hall, it's all right there!:thumbsup2
Be sure to plan some resort time.:goodvibes

[wsushocker]

:teacher:

I taught kindergarten for 24 years, 2nd grade for 2 years, 5th grade for 3 years, 6th grade for 2 years, and I currently am in my 2nd year of teaching At-Risk Math for grades K-5.

[Queenofallthings]

Wilderness Lodge....how wonderful!!! I can't wait to hear all about it. We've never stayed here but have gone to WCC a couple of time and we always go early so we can sit and enjoy the lobby!!!

[Tink9721]

I'm here! Great start!

Isn't the Wilderness Lodge great? I love it so much!!

[stace208]

Oh no!!!!

Ah, no worries! It only lasted a little while. I think now that the first one has come out, he'll be fine with it.:goodvibes

Never mind.....
It's the hospitality house :rotfl2:
You are taken care of! You will love it there, it's soooo laid back!
Close to the big pool. Shuffle board. The counter service, out by the pool, community hall, it's all right there!:thumbsup2
Be sure to plan some resort time.:goodvibes

That sounds like exactly what I am looking for! We usually go to Nags Head (beach in NC) for a week in the summer but we had to give it up this year for DVC. That's why I am so excited for OKW because it seems like it will be relaxing like our beach house. Now, nothing like your beloved BC but close!;)

:teacher:

I taught kindergarten for 24 years, 2nd grade for 2 years, 5th grade for 3 years, 6th grade for 2 years, and I currently am in my 2nd year of teaching At-Risk Math for grades K-5.

Wow! That's awesome!! Do you miss Kindergarten after teaching it for so long? We don't have at risk math in my district. Only reading (Title I).
I don't know if I will make it in education that long-not in Virginia anyways. Seems like all we do is test, test, analyze data, and then test some more.:sad2:

Wilderness Lodge....how wonderful!!! I can't wait to hear all about it. We've never stayed here but have gone to WCC a couple of time and we always go early so we can sit and enjoy the lobby!!!

I am really excited about WL! When we stayed there the first time we didn't know anything about ADR's and the like (yes, we were some of THOSE people on our first trip!:eek:). We wanted to eat at WCC and we had to wait for just a few minutes. We had such a good time wandering around the lobby that we hated that they seated us so fast!
I'm here! Great start!

Isn't the Wilderness Lodge great? I love it so much!!

Yay! Thanks for coming over! The WL is great. My sister-in-law and her family are staying there starting on Saturday. I can't wait to see her pictures and get even more excited!!

[stace208]

Time for the food!! Woot!!
Shortly after I booked all of this came the fateful day when ADR's switched back over to 180 days. Being the good Diser that I am, I awoke early and headed to the computer. I had my pencil, planning journal, and credit card at the ready. I had practiced putting in my reservation number and knew that it would find it (I'd read about some DVC folks having troubles with this).
6:00 came. I put in my number and retrieved my reservation. Put in my first restaurant. Waited. Waited. Waited. I got some sort of error message. Tried a few more times. Same thing. After 30 minutes I gave up and went back to bed. I got up at my regular time, got ready, and started calling right at 7:00. Either the phone kept ringing or I got a busy signal. I kept trying and trying all morning long right up until students came into my room. I tried again at my planning period and still didn't get through.

That night, after swim team practice, I tried the computer again but the system was down. So, I called one more time and got through!!! The CM and I joked about what a day it had been. Miraculously enough, I got everything I wanted! I was shocked!! I guess because all the systems had been down not many folks had gotten to make reservations after all! Good for me!!
Here are our plans:
Sunday, April 4th. This is Easter. We are leaving Dulles at 6:00 and arriving at MCO at 8 or so. No Disney food today-airport food:sad1:

Monday April 5th-Crystal Palace at 10. I originally booked this for 8. Then I realized that the park opens at 8 this week so we're losing that first thing in the morning advantage. So, I changed it to 10. I figure we'll work up a good hunger those first couple of hours and this will kinda be a brunch.

Tuesday April 6th-Hoop-De-Doo Review at 5:00. My kids loved this show in June so sticking with the surprise the kids trip we are returning here.

Wednesday April 7th-no ADR's this day. We'll be at Epcot for F&G so I am hoping to kinda snack around the world. Who knows where we'll end up!

Thursday April 8th-Chef Mickey's at 8:05. We'll have to be back at WL to get ME around 1 so we'll probably check out, go to CM, and ride the monorail in for a last hurrah at the MK.

We've eaten at CP and CM before but both for dinner, not breakfast so I am excited to give them a try!

[SoonerGirl]

Sounds good! We did CP for breakfast this last trip and really enjoyed it!

[Tink9721]

Yummy! We've only gone to Chef Mickey's for dinner and Crystal Palace for lunch. I'm curious about their breakfasts!

[wigdoutdismom]

We've done CP for breakfast and dinner, liked them both!
Snacking around the world sounds really yummy!:goodvibes

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

I made it! Another teacher joining in too! Sounds very good so far! DVC........ heavenly! I would love to be in DVC. Maybe someday. I'd also love to go to Epcot during F&G. Can't wait to hear all your plans!

[Queenofallthings]

GREAT ADR'S:banana:

[MeMom]

I don't know if I will make it in education that long-not in Virginia anyways. Seems like all we do is test, test, analyze data, and then test some more.:sad2:


That sounds all too familiar. Zaps the fun right out of teaching.






Monday April 5th-Crystal Palace at 10. I originally booked this for 8. Then I realized that the park opens at 8 this week so we're losing that first thing in the morning advantage. So, I changed it to 10. I figure we'll work up a good hunger those first couple of hours and this will kinda be a brunch.

Tuesday April 6th-Hoop-De-Doo Review at 5:00. My kids loved this show in June so sticking with the surprise the kids trip we are returning here.

Wednesday April 7th-no ADR's this day. We'll be at Epcot for F&G so I am hoping to kinda snack around the world. Who knows where we'll end up!

Thursday April 8th-Chef Mickey's at 8:05. We'll have to be back at WL to get ME around 1 so we'll probably check out, go to CM, and ride the monorail in for a last hurrah at the MK.

We've eaten at CP and CM before but both for dinner, not breakfast so I am excited to give them a try!

I know you were glad to finally get through and get all these things booked. There will be plenty of good eats as you wander around World Showcase, and Sunshine Seasons is always a good stop.

[stace208]

Sounds good! We did CP for breakfast this last trip and really enjoyed it!

Oh good, I am so glad to hear that!

Yummy! We've only gone to Chef Mickey's for dinner and Crystal Palace for lunch. I'm curious about their breakfasts!

Me too! We've never done many breakfasts so between this trip and June I am trying to make up some ground!

We've done CP for breakfast and dinner, liked them both!
Snacking around the world sounds really yummy!:goodvibes

I can't wait to snack around the world...hence why I am at the Y every night nowadays!!

I won't say we *disliked* CP's dinner buffet but it wasn't our favorite. I am excited to try the breakfast though.

I made it! Another teacher joining in too! Sounds very good so far! DVC........ heavenly! I would love to be in DVC. Maybe someday. I'd also love to go to Epcot during F&G. Can't wait to hear all your plans!

Yay! I am so glad you came over!:dance3:
DVC certainly has made it feasible to plan multiple trips. I'll be going crazy when we use up all these extra points. Guess I'll start looking for add-ons then!:rolleyes1

I'm really excited about F&G. When I first planned on doing a spring break trip I had no idea that it would be going on. It's something totally different for us and I hope to get some great pictures.

GREAT ADR'S:banana:

Thanks!
Your trip is coming up so soon!!:cool1:

[stace208]

That sounds all too familiar. Zaps the fun right out of teaching.


It does, doesn't it? I have a spreadsheet right now on my jump drive full of disaggrated data that needs to be done. No fun for the kids taking all the dang tests and no fun for me calculating all the data!
I'm sorry that it is that way for you too.


I know you were glad to finally get through and get all these things booked. There will be plenty of good eats as you wander around World Showcase, and Sunshine Seasons is always a good stop.

I'm excited to try some of the different places in WS. We are not adventurous eaters but I think by snacking we'll be more likely to give something a try than committing to a full meal somewhere. I figure the kids will be happy at the American snack place.

[Tink9721]

That sounds all too familiar. Zaps the fun right out of teaching.

My grandma used to be a 1st grade teacher before all of the crazy testing. She's always saying how ridiculous all of the testing stuff is. I agree. When I was in middle school we had to take "NECAPs" (New England Common Assessment...something) every year and they didn't even count for anything. They were just "practice." This year I had to take the real one. Apparently they're required to graduate. But it seems really silly to make us take the practice version in middle school, not take it freshman and sophomore year, and then take the real thing junior year :confused3

[stace208]

My grandma used to be a 1st grade teacher before all of the crazy testing. She's always saying how ridiculous all of the testing stuff is. I agree. When I was in middle school we had to take "NECAPs" (New England Common Assessment...something) every year and they didn't even count for anything. They were just "practice." This year I had to take the real one. Apparently they're required to graduate. But it seems really silly to make us take the practice version in middle school, not take it freshman and sophomore year, and then take the real thing junior year :confused3

That's crazy that you have to take it so early for practice. By the time you take the real thing, who remembers the practice?:confused3 Typical of many things in education nowadays...

[stace208]

I'm pooped tonight! My day started very early. 4:41 a.m. to be exact. Let me introduce you to Lucky.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0002-1.jpg
He's my fur buddy and I love him dearly. He doesn't wake me often, and it's only when he needs it, but it still hurts. I have a hard time going back to sleep once I wake up. The mind just starts thinking about this and that, what I need to do, an email from a parent...etc.
I stayed in bed for a while and eventually John woke up and we talked a bit. Then Ben was up and I got up for the day. Started some laundry and got on the computer a bit. I didn't have long because we had to get ready because Ben had a swim meet. I had hoped to have some good pictures to share but I used my new camera on the sports setting and didn't get much of anything.:sad2: I need to practice!! Then we dropped him at a friend's to go ice skating and sleep over.
Why is it that Saturday goes so quickly???
I wanted to share some of our between trips Disney fun. Back in November Ellie and I went to see Disney's Rockin' Road Show. It was cute. Please forgive some of these pictures. We had the WORST seats ever! We did end up moving but I am such a rule follower I didn't want to move too much.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0824.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0829.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0833.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0839.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0842.jpg
Basically the story is that Mickey and the gang are going on a road trip. Their car keeps breaking down and they meet up with the other characters. They invite them to come to their talent show. In the end, all the characters come and do the talent show. That's why Buzz is twirling hoops. Awful seats aside, it was a fun afternoon. Not as much fun as Disney on Ice though. I'll have to upload those pictures another time.
Here's Ellie with her souvie from the show-a Jessie hat. Between that and her shirt, I'd say she's ready for TS3 in June:thumbsup2
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0845.jpg

Hope everyone has a nice rest of the weekend! Thanks for reading along...I am almost in the 60's for days until the April trip!!:cheer2:

[SoonerGirl]

I've never heard of the Disney Rockin' Road show - how cute!

Your DD looks adorable in her Jessie hat :goodvibes

[stace208]

I've never heard of the Disney Rockin' Road show - how cute!

Your DD looks adorable in her Jessie hat :goodvibes

Thanks about Ellie:goodvibes I think she's a cutie but I am slightly biased I guess!

I had never heard of the show either. I got an email from the company because I bought the Disney on Ice tickets. I tried looking up information but couldn't find much. But, we're up for just about anything Disney and there was a nice discount code with the email so I figured what's to lose? Ben, of course, deemed it too "babyish". Honestly, he was right. He missed out on Disney on Ice though-he would've liked that.

[MHTeacher]

Cute pic of little Ellie in her "Jessie" hat! :cutie:

[MeMom]

Why is it that Saturday goes so quickly???



I don't know, but that needs to change!!!


Here's Ellie with her souvie from the show-a Jessie hat. Between that and her shirt, I'd say she's ready for TS3 in June:thumbsup2
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0845.jpg




Very cute. She is definitely ready for Toy Story 3!
We don't have hats, but we're ready for it, too! :woohoo:
I wish we all lived close enough to get together and fill a theater with Dis-crazies to watch it. :goodvibes

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Love the hat! That will be perfect for movie day! Very cute pooch too, even if he did wake you up. Ours does that regularly! You gotta love 'em though! :lovestruc

[Queenofallthings]

CUTE CUTE CUTE picture in the hat!!!:cutie:

[stace208]

Cute pic of little Ellie in her "Jessie" hat! :cutie:

Thanks!


Very cute. She is definitely ready for Toy Story 3!
We don't have hats, but we're ready for it, too! :woohoo:
I wish we all lived close enough to get together and fill a theater with Dis-crazies to watch it. :goodvibes

Man, that would be fun!! Oh, although we got the hats at the show, I did see them at the Disney outlet store when I was there after Christmas. I know one of the stores close to you is closing but maybe there or at Opry Mills you could find them. MUCH cheaper at the store than what I paid at the show!;)

Love the hat! That will be perfect for movie day! Very cute pooch too, even if he did wake you up. Ours does that regularly! You gotta love 'em though! :lovestruc

Yep, I love my fur baby. He's my buddy for sure!

CUTE CUTE CUTE picture in the hat!!!:cutie:

Thanks so much! :goodvibes

[Tink9721]

Awww! Your dog is so cute! We have a golden retreiver who woke us up TWICE on Sunday night(techically Monday morning) to go to the bathroom. The first time she didn't go. She just wanted to play :rolleyes: And then on Wednesday night she was snoring a lot and all of a sudden she made a really weird cow-like sound in her sleep :rotfl:

[stace208]

Awww! Your dog is so cute! We have a golden retreiver who woke us up TWICE on Sunday night(techically Monday morning) to go to the bathroom. The first time she didn't go. She just wanted to play :rolleyes: And then on Wednesday night she was snoring a lot and all of a sudden she made a really weird cow-like sound in her sleep :rotfl:

Gotta love those fur friends! Mine has done the wake up early and want to play before but he's learned in his young life that this equals a not happy momma so he only wakes me if he REALLY needs to go!!;)

[stace208]

I know for many, snow is a nuisance. A few days from now, it will be for me too but today? Today it is FAB!:thumbsup2

I got up at 6 like a little kid to peek outside and see if it snowed. Let the dog out and watched and laughed as he played-it's his first snow! By 8 both kids were up and my DH took them outside. I had gotten snow pants on clearance at Wal-Mart because we are supposed to be going tubing (well, DH, Ben, and DSIL. Ellie and I are just going along.) Anywho, they came in handy for today.
With the wind, it is really cold and Ellie is the only one with boots so they didn't stay out long. Then I went outside with them a few hours later. Fun!!

Here's the front of our house.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Snow%202010/IMG_0700.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Snow%202010/IMG_0688.jpg
Down the street
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Snow%202010/IMG_0686.jpg

Look, no grass in the footprint! (Usually the snow doesn't even cover the grass:rolleyes:)
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Snow%202010/IMG_0701.jpg
The pool looks like a lake.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Snow%202010/IMG_0690.jpg

Kids, and pooch, at play!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Snow%202010/IMG_0683.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Snow%202010/IMG_0695.jpg
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http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Snow%202010/IMG_0714.jpg

Right now the wind is blowing a bunch so we're staying in for a while. There is still some light snow but it's hard to tell with the wind. My guess is we have about 6 inches. I'm hoping that it will freeze up tonight and we might get to go sledding tomorrow!

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Wow, you got more than we did. It looks pretty thick! You're right, it is so cold with the wind that we had to come in too. We've been out twice and that's all I can take for today. Maybe we'll all get to enjoy it more tomorrow, like you said.

Your neighborhood looks beautiful all covered in snow. It is so quiet and serene outside after a snowfall, even in a neighborhood that is usually bustling! :cloud9:

[Mndisneygirl]

Hi Stacy! I followed you from Rinky Tinky's TR! I am NOT a teacher however, so please let me stay!! ;)

Love the plans! Lucky two trips!! That DVC man, I should have done that years ago! Not that I had any more $ then either. HA!
I am also quite fond of Sorcerer Mickey! On one of my first trips we had seen a little plush one at DHS and didn't buy it. I wanted it, so I had to look everywhere and then realized he wa only at DHS (MGM then). Yup, we went back. Fast forward about 10 years. My kids' school had a "pet adoption" at the fair - stuffed animals for $1 or $2. Guess what I found??? Yes, a Sorcerer Mickey. I now have 2!

Your snow looks good!! Nice and deep for angels! Enjoy. I'm sure it won't last as long as it does here. (we haven't lost but an inch or two since Christmas)

[SoonerGirl]

Wow - you got quite a bit of snow! We got much more than we are used to as well and the boys have been having a ball the last two days.

Love those pics of your kiddos playing in the snow - they look like they are having so much fun :thumbsup2

[MHTeacher]

WOW---look at all the snow you got! Looks like so much fun.....to see! I'm not one for getting out in the cold---hurts my bones! ;)

I guess I've given up ever getting to experience that much snow first hand , living here in Alabama. You know we get excited when the weather-man says "SNOW FLURRIES!!" :laughing:

[stace208]

Wow, you got more than we did. It looks pretty thick! You're right, it is so cold with the wind that we had to come in too. We've been out twice and that's all I can take for today. Maybe we'll all get to enjoy it more tomorrow, like you said.

Your neighborhood looks beautiful all covered in snow. It is so quiet and serene outside after a snowfall, even in a neighborhood that is usually bustling! :cloud9:

I just love how everything looks after a snowfall too!! It's so pretty!
Ellie ended up going out in it again. Girl is crazy! But she had a blast so that's all that matters I guess!
Our final total was around 6 inches. Most we've had in many years!

[stace208]

Hi Stacy! I followed you from Rinky Tinky's TR! I am NOT a teacher however, so please let me stay!! ;)

Love the plans! Lucky two trips!! That DVC man, I should have done that years ago! Not that I had any more $ then either. HA!
I am also quite fond of Sorcerer Mickey! On one of my first trips we had seen a little plush one at DHS and didn't buy it. I wanted it, so I had to look everywhere and then realized he wa only at DHS (MGM then). Yup, we went back. Fast forward about 10 years. My kids' school had a "pet adoption" at the fair - stuffed animals for $1 or $2. Guess what I found??? Yes, a Sorcerer Mickey. I now have 2!

Your snow looks good!! Nice and deep for angels! Enjoy. I'm sure it won't last as long as it does here. (we haven't lost but an inch or two since Christmas)

Hi Sheree!! I am glad that you came over!:dance3: I just left a post on your TR. Still don't know how I got unsubscribed.

Yep, this is my lucky year. When all is said and done, 2010 will be 3 trips for us as we have nailed down our December dates. Now I just gotta call on Monday and hopefully get the reservation.:santa: DVC is definitely the way to go! We won't be going like this once we just have our regular points though-it's only this year that we have double.

Our snow will probably be gone by the end of the week. Rain and highs in the 50's. While I wish we got it a little more often, I don't want it too often because I think it loses it's fun and magic!

[stace208]

Wow - you got quite a bit of snow! We got much more than we are used to as well and the boys have been having a ball the last two days.

Love those pics of your kiddos playing in the snow - they look like they are having so much fun :thumbsup2

Thanks Michelle! The kids did have a blast today and I think tomorrow will be fun too since the sun will be out. I'm hoping to get some sledding in if we can find a hill big enough!

WOW---look at all the snow you got! Looks like so much fun.....to see! I'm not one for getting out in the cold---hurts my bones! ;)

I guess I've given up ever getting to experience that much snow first hand , living here in Alabama. You know we get excited when the weather-man says "SNOW FLURRIES!!" :laughing:

I didn't stay out long, let me tell you! We just don't have the clothing for it. Ellie was out the longest as she was the only one whose toes weren't freezing (I got her boots on clearance). Those snowpants were a saving grace too!

That's how we usually are-thrilled with a dusting or an inch if we are lucky. When I went to put the pictures up on Facebook I saw my pictures from last January. The kids out making *grass* angels in the dusting we got! :rotfl:

[stace208]

Yesterday the sky was such a pretty blue and everything looked so peaceful. It was still bitter cold but we headed out once again into the snow.
The dog likes to eat the snow
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0129.jpg
John and Ben all bundled up.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0133.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0134.jpg
The cat ventured out onto the porch but didn't stay long!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0137.jpg
We put the kids to work with the shovel.
[http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0142.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0143.jpg
My poor daffodils had actually started to bloom. Ellie felt bad for the plants and started to clear the snow away from them.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0153.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0155.jpg
Later in the afternoon we headed to John's parent's house (a mile or so up the road) for sledding and dinner. They have a great hill and we had a blast. Please forgive the pic of my X-Large bottom:scared:
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0174.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0175.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0172.jpg
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http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0180.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0183.jpg
It was really great fun. Ben stayed out there going up and down until he was a popsicle.
Shopping pictures in the next post!

[SoonerGirl]

What a pretty day you guys had! We have yet to see the sun here - still gloomy and cold :sad2:

I think that is just too precious that Ellie was worried about the plants :goodvibes

[stace208]

How about an actual Disney related post?!? Okie doke-and it's got one of my favorite themes-shopping!!
Last year I made a bunch of t-shirts for the kids and myself. I had a blast combing the Disign threads and finding such fun, great things. This year, I just don't have the time to get them done before April (I made most of them last year during spring break) so I have been buying shirts whenever I find them for a good price. We went to a big outlet mall over Christmas break and I got some there and just ordered some from Disney shopping last week. My order came in so I took pictures of everything I bought.
Lots of shirts for me and the kids. John doesn't really do character t-shirts but he has agreed to a Grumpy shirt so I am on the hunt for just the right one. The Grumpy below is one that Ben picked out for himself.
Pooh Bear ones for me and Ellie at our CP breakfast.
[http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0203.jpg
Some for Ben. I love that Grumpy says "I've got my eye on you"
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0204.jpg
Something about this angry Mickey appealed to me. It's right up Ben's alley.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0205.jpg
A pink Mickey for me and Minnie for Ellie.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0206.jpg
A Tink for me with my new journal.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0207.jpg
These stockings were something I eyed all season long. I won't replace our regular stockings but I think I'll use them to put stuff in for our December trip and give them to the kids Christmas Day. Maybe new sweatshirts and gift cards and whatever else I find.
By the way, I booked that trip today!:banana: December 26-31st. I hadn't decided if I was going to tell the kids or not but I did. I can only do one secret!!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0208.jpg

[stace208]

What a pretty day you guys had! We have yet to see the sun here - still gloomy and cold :sad2:

I think that is just too precious that Ellie was worried about the plants :goodvibes

Oh man, no sun?? That would drive me bananas. It was beautiful again today here. The kids and I ventured out for lunch at the mall and a quick Wally world trip. The roads are better but expected to freeze up again tonight. We are out of school again tomorrow.

She really has such a kind heart towards plants and animals. Not to say that she doesn't like people, because she does, IF she knows them. She is so very shy (debilitatingly so sometimes but getting better) and I guess with plants and animals there's no worries!

[wigdoutdismom]

Just caught up! Love the Jessie hat, I think I need one!
Looks like you had a blast in the snow, we have a bunch too, Baylor played out in it some after school but we had basketball on Saturday so no chance then and yesterday we were just too tired to do anything...
We booked for Christmas today too, we MUST plan a DIS meet!

[MHTeacher]

. John doesn't really do character t-shirts but he has agreed to a Grumpy shirt so I am on the hunt for just the right one.

I just ordered one from DisneyOutlet this past Sunday---It was under the "New Arrival" section. Seems like it was $5.99. It's a suprise for DH for our May trip! :laughing:

. These stockings were something I eyed all season long.

http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0208.jpg

I got these too at the first of the month. I really wanted the Pluto one for my puggie, but it was already gone!

.By the way, I booked that trip today!:banana: December 26-31st. I hadn't decided if I was going to tell the kids or not but I did. I can only do one secret!!


Ooohhhh---I'm a little jealous! :jumping2: If you read my TR report from my DD's 16th birthday trip, you know we were there for NYE last month. It was AMAZING!!!::yes:: You'll have a fantastic time!

[MeMom]

By the way, I booked that trip today!:banana: December 26-31st.

That's exciting!
Do you have to leave before NYE fireworks? They are pretty awesome!

Those multiple trips are dangerous!!! After a year or two of a bunch of trips, you start going crazy after a 3-4 month period of time with no Disney. At least that's how it is with me.

I enjoyed the snow pictures. Sleds around here have been getting a lot of use this week, too.

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Your snow pictures are just wonderful! What fun. We went sledding yesterday too. We walked WAY down to the end of the farm where there's a big hill and I pulled out the camera only to realize there was no memory card in it! :mad: No way was I walking back to get it. So glad you are smarter than me and you got good pictures.

Loved all your purchases! My DH isn't crazy about the t-shirts either but he did wear the ones I made last year without complaining. Those stocking are way too cute! Great idea to take them for gifts! And congrats on booking a trip. So exciting!:thumbsup2

[stace208]

Just caught up! Love the Jessie hat, I think I need one!
Looks like you had a blast in the snow, we have a bunch too, Baylor played out in it some after school but we had basketball on Saturday so no chance then and yesterday we were just too tired to do anything...
We booked for Christmas today too, we MUST plan a DIS meet!

Sign me up for the DIS meet!:banana::dance3: What are your dates for Christmas? Are you staying BCV?

The snow has been fun. Now it needs to go! LOL!

[stace208]

I just ordered one from DisneyOutlet this past Sunday---It was under the "New Arrival" section. Seems like it was $5.99. It's a suprise for DH for our May trip! :laughing:

I didn't see that one.:confused3 I saw several that I liked in the 2 for 20 section. Gosh, guess I could force myself to order another one for me too...:rolleyes1


I got these too at the first of the month. I really wanted the Pluto one for my puggie, but it was already gone!

I never saw the Pluto one!! Ben probably would've liked that better. When I was at the outlet store after Christmas they had the kind with the big stuffed head on the back but didn't have any that Ben liked. Plus, I just like the classic feel to these!


Ooohhhh---I'm a little jealous! :jumping2: If you read my TR report from my DD's 16th birthday trip, you know we were there for NYE last month. It was AMAZING!!!::yes:: You'll have a fantastic time!

I am really excited! I will add your TR to my must read list!

[stace208]

That's exciting!
Do you have to leave before NYE fireworks? They are pretty awesome!

Unfortunately, we will be leaving at the butt crack of dawn on the 31st.:sad2: John REFUSES to stay for NYE (or 4th of July for that matter). He really balked at this trip altogether because he hates to be gone the entire Christmas break. I offered the alternative of leaving the 22nd and coming back on the 27th but that was a no-go because he doesn't want to be there Christmas Day.:sad2: So, I am just grateful that he finally agreed to going at all. He did say that in a few years, when the kids were older, he would consider Christmas Day and since that's my dream, I'll take it!

Those multiple trips are dangerous!!! After a year or two of a bunch of trips, you start going crazy after a 3-4 month period of time with no Disney. At least that's how it is with me.

I know! I will be in serious trouble after this year!!:scared1:
I enjoyed the snow pictures. Sleds around here have been getting a lot of use this week, too.

We took the sled from my youth over there but it didn't work. Luckily his parents are pack rats and still had the metal saucer that he and his sister used when they were younger!

Your snow pictures are just wonderful! What fun. We went sledding yesterday too. We walked WAY down to the end of the farm where there's a big hill and I pulled out the camera only to realize there was no memory card in it! :mad: No way was I walking back to get it. So glad you are smarter than me and you got good pictures.

I would have been so frustrated if I didn't have a memory card!! Bet you had fun anyways!!

Loved all your purchases! My DH isn't crazy about the t-shirts either but he did wear the ones I made last year without complaining. Those stocking are way too cute! Great idea to take them for gifts! And congrats on booking a trip. So exciting!:thumbsup2

I only made John one last year. He's fine if it only has something small on it-like where a logo would go. I told him last year that I was getting him a Grumpy shirt and he said he wouldn't wear it. So, for him to agree now is really something. Must be 3 trips planned-it's wearing off on him too!:rotfl:
I am so excited about all of these trips I just can't see straight!:banana: The only thing better would be if one of them wasn't scheduled at peak season!:scared:
I did slide in something about a long weekend around my birthday next year (March) if I saved my personal days up...I got a laugh, but not a "no"..:rolleyes1

[MHTeacher]

Unfortunately, we will be leaving at the butt crack of dawn on the 31st.

:lmao: My DH said the same thing on our New Years trip last month. He remarked that I had dragged everyone out of the room at "the butt-crack of dawn". That was the first time I'd ever heard that expression!:rotfl2:

[stace208]

:lmao: My DH said the same thing on our New Years trip last month. He remarked that I had dragged everyone out of the room at "the butt-crack of dawn". That was the first time I'd ever heard that expression!:rotfl2:

Really? Too funny!:lmao: It's weird how a saying that is so familiar to one area/region or even family is not something that other folks have even heard.

[wigdoutdismom]

Sign me up for the DIS meet!:banana::dance3: What are your dates for Christmas? Are you staying BCV?

The snow has been fun. Now it needs to go! LOL!

Our dates are December 23rd / Jan 1st and we are at Beach Club except we are moving out for the weekend to save some points...
I'm thinking to MeMom's Pop!

I'm ready for this snow to melt too, my car needs to be washed and I would like it to stay clean longer than a couple minutes!:cutie:

[stace208]

Our dates are December 23rd / Jan 1st and we are at Beach Club except we are moving out for the weekend to save some points...
I'm thinking to MeMom's Pop!

I'm ready for this snow to melt too, my car needs to be washed and I would like it to stay clean longer than a couple minutes!:cutie:

Wow, you are getting in a nice, long trip! I'm glad that our dates overlap quite a bit!:goodvibes

My car is a mess too but it's going to be another few days before it's worth washing it.

**************************************
We are out yet another day of school tomorrow. I am so bummed because it means we lose President's Day.:sad2:

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

We're out on our side of the water, too, Stacy! We should have gotten together! I am SURE we'll go back tomorrow-but then they say there's a chance of bad weather again this weekend. I hope it just rains!

Just wanted to say hi :wave2: and let you know I had finally made it over here to your PTR. Sledding looked like fun!

[stace208]

We're out on our side of the water, too, Stacy! We should have gotten together! I am SURE we'll go back tomorrow-but then they say there's a chance of bad weather again this weekend. I hope it just rains!

Just wanted to say hi :wave2: and let you know I had finally made it over here to your PTR. Sledding looked like fun!

Hi Maggie! I'm so glad that you made it over here!:cheer2:

We should've gotten together today! I really did think we'd be back in school. Tomorrow for SURE so at least there's no Saturdays! I, too, hope it is all rain this weekend. I'm over the snow now!:rolleyes:

[andrews1ma]

Hey I am in- I just saw that you had a PTR started in your siggie over on my PTR! OMG I am jealous- you bought into DVC :woohoo:! My Grumpy DH would have no part in that :sad1:. You have lot's of wonderful trips coming up to look forward too.

Oh and this one is a surprise- how awesome! I am sure your kiddies are going to freak!

I love your ADR's. We have never been to the Hoop Dee Doo Review- I want to try it but I am not sure if DS and DH will like it?

You are going a few weeks before us so it will be fun to read along and countdown together!

[wigdoutdismom]

Wow, you are getting in a nice, long trip! I'm glad that our dates overlap quite a bit!:goodvibes

My car is a mess too but it's going to be another few days before it's worth washing it.

**************************************
We are out yet another day of school tomorrow. I am so bummed because it means we lose President's Day.:sad2:

We have conferences next week so we have Friday off for a comp day and President's day off on Monday so that will make for a nice long weekend. So far no snow days this year or last year....

[stace208]

Hey I am in- I just saw that you had a PTR started in your siggie over on my PTR! OMG I am jealous- you bought into DVC :woohoo:! My Grumpy DH would have no part in that :sad1:. You have lot's of wonderful trips coming up to look forward too.

Oh and this one is a surprise- how awesome! I am sure your kiddies are going to freak!

I love your ADR's. We have never been to the Hoop Dee Doo Review- I want to try it but I am not sure if DS and DH will like it?

You are going a few weeks before us so it will be fun to read along and countdown together!

Hi Donna! Thanks for coming over and joining in:yay:
Yes, I am very lucky that I finally talked DH not only into buying DVC but also into all these trips this first year. Yay for getting '09 points with our contract!:banana: Really, he tries to act all grumpy but he loves it as much as me or he never would've gone for the expense!

I am so excited to surprise the kids. A friend of ours did it for Christmas and Ben's words were "It's just wrong to not tell your kids". John and I were snickering when he said it!:lmao: Then when I booked the Christmas trip I told them that originally I was going to keep it a surprise but didn't think I could keep a Disney trip a surprise. They both agreed that I'd never be able to...:rolleyes1

Your son is 10, right? Ben is 9 but turns 10 in August. He LOVED Hoop De Doo Review the most out of all of us. It's corny humor at it's best with fun audience participation. The food is not spectacular but it's tasty for the most part (or we thought so) and beer and sangria are included as a drink option if you'd like. It is pricey or eats up 2 TS on the DDP but I do say give it a try at least once!

[stace208]

We have conferences next week so we have Friday off for a comp day and President's day off on Monday so that will make for a nice long weekend. So far no snow days this year or last year....

We have conferences next week too on Tuesday.
What is a comp day?

Thankfully they have changed our forecast for this weekend to mostly rain. I'm ready for spring!

[wigdoutdismom]

We have conferences next week too on Tuesday.
What is a comp day?

Thankfully they have changed our forecast for this weekend to mostly rain. I'm ready for spring!

We teach all day Tuesday then have conferences until 7:30 p.m. on Thursday we conference from 8:00 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. so Friday we are compensated with the day off. Actually I will start my Thursday with a 7:30 conference because I've set up an early one with my last year's principal (I have his daughter in my class this year).:goodvibes

[stace208]

We teach all day Tuesday then have conferences until 7:30 p.m. on Thursday we conference from 8:00 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. so Friday we are compensated with the day off. Actually I will start my Thursday with a 7:30 conference because I've set up an early one with my last year's principal (I have his daughter in my class this year).:goodvibes

Oh, ok. We just have conferences from 10-6:30 on Tuesday. Last year they were on Friday and it was better. Although we were at school until 6:30 we didn't have to go in the next day. This year, no such luck.

[stace208]

60 Days! 60 Days! 60 Days!!
I am so excited!!:banana::dance3::woohoo:
On one hand, it seems like forever. On the other, I know it will go by pretty quickly-at least I am hoping so!
I had hoped to get my trip plans up and share some changes in dining tonight but it's not in the cards. I will get it done this weekend though!!

[MHTeacher]

YAY!!!:cheer2::cheer2::cheer2: 60 days...that's nothing! It will be here before you know it! :)

[stace208]

More shopping!!
Thanks to some wonderful enabling (thanks SoonerGirl:thumbsup2) I came home to this today!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0718.jpg
What was inside you wonder??
This fab-o camera bag!!:cool1:
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0719.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0720.jpg
I put my camera and extra lens in. Look how much room is still in there! Plus the outside pockets!!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0721.jpg
I am just thrilled with it! Thanks again Michelle:goodvibes
I also got this in the mail. Perfect for a cold, rainy weekend!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0722.jpg
Hope you are all having a good Friday evening. I'll be back with some actual trip plans over the weekend!

[stace208]

YAY!!!:cheer2::cheer2::cheer2: 60 days...that's nothing! It will be here before you know it! :)

Thanks! I sure hope it is here before I know it. The way things keep going this school year these trips are what is getting me through!

[SoonerGirl]

That was fast! I hope you enjoy the bag as much as I do!

[wigdoutdismom]

Very cute camera bag! I got that magazine a couple of days ago too!

[jenniferkeala808]

i'm here!! can't wait to read more!!

[stace208]

That was fast! I hope you enjoy the bag as much as I do!

It was super fast! The email said they weren't even going to ship it until the 10th...they shipped the 3rd and I got it the 4th!:cool1:
I'm itching to go somewhere and take it but no luck today-cold, dreary, and more snow. It's not sticking this time, thankfully.
Thanks again for the recommendation. I can tell I am going to :love: it!

Very cute camera bag! I got that magazine a couple of days ago too!

Good article in there about Fantasyland. It will be so exciting to see all the changes in the next few years!

i'm here!! can't wait to read more!!

Hi Keala! :dance3: Thanks for joining in!!

[jenniferkeala808]

i LLLLLOOOOVVVEEE that bag...oh wait, i think it's because i LLLOOOVEE pink!!! super cute!!

[stace208]

Some details about Trip #2!
I get out of school on June 22nd this year.:sad2: VA is mostly a start after Labor Day state so we didn't start this year until Sept. 8th. Late start=late getting out. The kids get out the 18th but teachers have to go back those last 2 days. Last year my principal said that if we were done, we didn't have to even come in on the last day. Weeellll, turns out he didn't get this approved first sooooo this year I imagine we will be there the whole day on the 22nd. So, I will need to have my ducks in a row so that once I get home I can gather the last few things and get the car loaded. We will leave between 3-4 a.m. I'd like to leave sooner so we'll see what time John gets to bed. He drives the whole way-says it's better for his motion sickness. Fine by me because I hate to drive!
Dates for the trip- June 23rd-July 2nd
We are staying at our home resort of Old Key West. It will be a first for us and we're all very excited.
The kids know about this trip so they've helped plan the food and such. Of course, a couple of the meals, like HDDR and CP are actually on the April trip but they don't know that!:rolleyes:

Here are the rest of our ADR's for June: Let me know what you think!
6/23-arrival day so nothing planned. I figure once we stop and get food, get checked in and settled, we will probably head to DTD for dinner and some shopping. We did this last year and it was a great beginning!
6/24-Plaza at 11:05. This is a new one for us. I've seen some great reviews and Ellie wants that dessert with the cone!
6/25-Rose and Crown at 1:00. We ate dinner here in 2008 and liked it so we're looking forward to visiting again.
6/26- 50's PTC at 5:15. Another new one for us. I didn't plan this one at first. Added it in after seeing WigD's good review on her TR.:goodvibes
6/27-Donald's breakfast at Tusker House. Originally I had this planned for before park opening at 8:05. I changed it to 10:25 a couple of days ago. Here's why: Although I wanted empty park pictures, I wasn't sure we'd get done eating in time to really get a jump start on a 9:00 park opening. I hate to feel rushed at a meal. Also, Ellie is not a big eater in general and she really hates to eat first thing in the morning. I figure this way she will have been up and going for a couple of hours so she will eat a bit more. The rest of us will be plenty hungry so this will be a good brunch! I hope I don't end up regretting the time change.:confused3
6/28-Nothing. We are going to Sea World this day. The other 3 members of my family want to do this. We went for one day the first time we went to Disney in 2006. None of us were overly impressed but Ben watched a show about roller coasters and wants to ride Manta. Ellie is excited to see the dolphins and other animals. She was only 3 when we went so she doesn't remember much. We have seasons passes that get us in free so it's a good deal.
6/29- Boma at 5:00. I am very nervous about this. I am not an adventurous eater and neither are the kids. But, we will survive! John picked this meal-it was his main request so..;)
6/30 Cinderella's Royal Table at 8:05 (I think I read it will have a new name by then tho!). This is a first for us as we've always done Akershus for our princess fix. I wanted to eat in the castle before Ellie gets too old. Not that you're EVER too old to eat in the castle but I wanted her to do it while she was still "little" if that makes sense!
7/1 Olivia's at 5:05 Another first for us.
7/2 1900 Park Fare at 9:30. Yet another new one for us.
The next day we hit the road.:sad1:

[stace208]

i LLLLLOOOOVVVEEE that bag...oh wait, i think it's because i LLLOOOVEE pink!!! super cute!!

Thanks! I still haven't had a chance to take it out anywhere. I've got family coming into town next weekend so hopefully the weather will cooperate so we can get out and about. If not, I'll take it with me out to eat and take pictures at the restaurant!

[stace208]

Two updates to hold you over...busy week ahead!!
I counted on the calendar the other day and realized that there are 8 Sundays between now and our trip (we arrive on the 9th Sunday). So, I decided to do Disney Sunday dinners from now until then. Nothing fancy, just all of us eating together and watching a Disney movie. We usually do Disney movie night anyways so this added a little bit more fun to it. We picked out a bunch of different Disney party plates. I put our names in a hat (a Jessie hat no less;)) to see who would pick the movie and the plates. Ellie won this week and her pick for plates was:
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0724.jpg
Mickey plates!! I love them. They are so bright and colorful.
What did we eat? Ellie's favorite
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0725.jpg
Pizza! John and the kids had this yummy pizza from Sam's Club. They are soooo good. Me, I had a Lean Cuisine cheese pizza. Also good, actually, but not Sam's, that's for sure! But, I am down 17.4 pounds and want to keep going!!:woohoo:
She picked Up! to watch. She likes that "she's" in it. I so love that movie and cry every time even though I've seen it a bazillion times.

OH! One more thing--ever since I saw on RinkyTinkyTinky's TR about the Pirates and Pals fireworks cruise, I have been trying to fit it in. It only usually sails Fri-Mon. I couldn't find a time in there where we didn't have an early morning the next day so I gave up. Last night I was over looking around again after reading about the Wishes cruise on WigD's TR and clicked on Pirates and Pals again. I almost left without reading but I did read and guess what???????????????
They now have 2 date spans where it will cruise 7 nights a week!!:dance3::banana::woohoo:
Both of our trips fall into one of the date spans but with spring break being a short trip I didn't want to give up any park time. But, we have two nights on the June trip that could work. Now I just have to call and see if it is available!! I'm thrilled and cross your fingers for me!

[MeMom]

7/1 Olivia's at 5:05 Another first for us.
7/2 1900 Park Fare at 9:30. Yet another new one for us.
The next day we hit the road.:sad1:

We will have to hook up one of these two days. We're getting in late on the 30th. Jill and I have wanted to take the guys over to OKW sometime, so we might meet you over at Olivia's just before your dinner time. We got some delicious burgers at 'Goods' once and sat out by the water and ate. It was beautiful. If not, maybe we can catch you on the 2nd.

We'll be there the 30th through July 10th.

[SoonerGirl]

Wow, I can't imagine not getting out of school until the end of June! Of course, we started alot earlier than you did too.

Your trip #2 plans sound good! We did Tusker House for brunch on Christmas Day, I found that we all ate better eating a bit later :thumbsup2

We've done Boma before, it's been awhile - 2005, and we all enjoyed it. Jared & I aren't real adventurous eaters either and we found plenty to eat. Plus there are zebra domes on the dessert buffet - YUM!

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

All your ADRs sound very good! You have lots booked that I want to try myself. I can't wait to hear what you think about them.

I'm sending you MAJOR pixie dust on the pirate cruise!!!pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: I really hope you can get that. Your kids are at the perfect age to really get into it, and it is great for boys and girls. Please keep us posted on that!!

I love your Disney Sunday dinners. We enjoy having a Disney night too. It's not the same as being at WDW, but it gives you something to hold you over. And I'm with you on UP. We saw it at the theater and I couldn't believe that I was getting choked up over a cartoon. But the beginning is pretty sad. Even my DH said it was sad!

Can't wait to hear if you get the cruise!

[wigdoutdismom]

6/24-Plaza at 11:05. This is a new one for us. I've seen some great reviews and Ellie wants that dessert with the cone! Haven't eaten here but we are in March!
6/25-Rose and Crown at 1:00. We ate dinner here in 2008 and liked it so we're looking forward to visiting again.
I'm a fan of the Bangers and Mash, what do you like here?
6/26- 50's PTC at 5:15. Another new one for us. I didn't plan this one at first. Added it in after seeing WigD's good review on her TR.:goodvibes MMMM, love the fried chicken!
6/27-Donald's breakfast at Tusker House. Originally I had this planned for before park opening at 8:05. I changed it to 10:25 a couple of days ago. Here's why: Although I wanted empty park pictures, I wasn't sure we'd get done eating in time to really get a jump start on a 9:00 park opening. I hate to feel rushed at a meal. Also, Ellie is not a big eater in general and she really hates to eat first thing in the morning. I figure this way she will have been up and going for a couple of hours so she will eat a bit more. The rest of us will be plenty hungry so this will be a good brunch! I hope I don't end up regretting the time change.:confused3 We love this one, if you like ham be sure to get some! Also the chocolate turnovers....

6/29- Boma at 5:00. I am very nervous about this. I am not an adventurous eater and neither are the kids. But, we will survive! John picked this meal-it was his main request so..;)Another great choice! Take lots of small samples and be ready to go back for what you love!
6/30 Cinderella's Royal Table at 8:05 (I think I read it will have a new name by then tho!). This is a first for us as we've always done Akershus for our princess fix. I wanted to eat in the castle before Ellie gets too old. Not that you're EVER too old to eat in the castle but I wanted her to do it while she was still "little" if that makes sense! Baylor stuffed himself off of the cold buffet here! He loved the cold cuts and strawberries! We enjoyed it too! Have fun!
7/1 Olivia's at 5:05 Another first for us. This is an awesome place, we ate at Olivia's for the first time this past December, one of our group had the pasta and shrimp and said it was super yum! I had a couple of appetizers, they were good too....
7/2 1900 Park Fare at 9:30. Yet another new one for us. Another great choice, we love 1900 PF! You must try the Strawberry Soup!:goodvibes
The next day we hit the road.:sad1:[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][/QUOTE]

[jenniferkeala808]

Great ADR's. I've never eating at any of those personally but I've been reading reviews about them...sounds like you picked the good ones!!

Soooo cute that you're doing Disney Movie Sundays! What a way to get into the spirit! And your trip is only 9 sundays away?? it's gonna come sooo fast!! So exciting.

I always cry when i watch up! also. soooo precious yeah??

Well, can't wait for another update!!

[Queenofallthings]

I'm all caught up!! Love your ADR's!

We actually went to The Plaza last Monday for our first time and loved it. Hope you do too!!!

Boma is another fav of ours....love both breakfast and dinner there.

BTW, love the sledding pictures, I miss those days!! I honestly think the last time we went sledding my DD17 was probably 8:rolleyes1 Your pictures made me smile, thank you!!!!

[MHTeacher]

6/26- 50's PTC at 5:15. Another new one for us.:

Love 50's Prime Time. You can't go wrong with either the fried chicken or pot roast . Also, when we were there in December, DH ordered sweet tea after our server assured us that it was real sweet tea, brewed on site. I took a sip of his and it was actually good. So, if you need a sweet tea fix, it's pretty good. :thumbsup2

6/27-Donald's breakfast at Tusker House. :

LOVE it---jungle juice, or whatever they call it, is yummy delish!

6/29- Boma at 5:00. I am very nervous about this. I am not an adventurous eater and neither are the kids. But, we will survive! John picked this meal-it was his main request so..;)
:

We ate here last May, and no one in my family is very adventurous! There are a LOT of choices, so everyone should find something they like! :)

[lthiesfeld07]

Hello!
Great ADR's! I've always wanted to try 1900 Park Faire.
Congrats on losing 17.4 pounds! That's wonderful! I'm trying to do the same thing... I do love the Lean Cuisine pizzas! :lovestruc

[stace208]

We will have to hook up one of these two days. We're getting in late on the 30th. Jill and I have wanted to take the guys over to OKW sometime, so we might meet you over at Olivia's just before your dinner time. We got some delicious burgers at 'Goods' once and sat out by the water and ate. It was beautiful. If not, maybe we can catch you on the 2nd.

We'll be there the 30th through July 10th.

I would absolutely :love: to meet up with you guys!!! Both of those days (1st and 2nd) are kinda our "up in the air, do whatever we wanna" days so I'm sure that we can get together somewhere!! I'm so excited-it might be my very first DIS meet.:goodvibes:woohoo:

[stace208]

Wow, I can't imagine not getting out of school until the end of June! Of course, we started alot earlier than you did too.

Your trip #2 plans sound good! We did Tusker House for brunch on Christmas Day, I found that we all ate better eating a bit later :thumbsup2

Oh good, I am glad to hear that. John was a bit wishy-washy on it and left the final decision to me. We're doing a later one at CP in April and an early at CM so I figure those will be our trial run for each scenario. I just really think the later will work out better overall!

We've done Boma before, it's been awhile - 2005, and we all enjoyed it. Jared & I aren't real adventurous eaters either and we found plenty to eat. Plus there are zebra domes on the dessert buffet - YUM!

Glad to hear this too! I am soooo excited about those zebra domes.:yay:

[stace208]

All your ADRs sound very good! You have lots booked that I want to try myself. I can't wait to hear what you think about them.

I'm excited about them too! Only thing better than playing at Disney is eating at Disney!:lmao:

I'm sending you MAJOR pixie dust on the pirate cruise!!!pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: I really hope you can get that. Your kids are at the perfect age to really get into it, and it is great for boys and girls. Please keep us posted on that!!

Thank you so much for the pixie dust on this! This week is busting my butt and I'm practically holding my eyelids up with toothpicks to get these replies done...BUT I might have had a chance to call Tuesday morning before conferences...:rolleyes1

I love your Disney Sunday dinners. We enjoy having a Disney night too. It's not the same as being at WDW, but it gives you something to hold you over. And I'm with you on UP. We saw it at the theater and I couldn't believe that I was getting choked up over a cartoon. But the beginning is pretty sad. Even my DH said it was sad!

Disney nights are so much fun, aren't they? Just a little bit of the magic right here at home!:wizard:

I cry at almost everything. I truly am a HUGE sap. I was a mess when we saw Up! in the theaters. I cried in Princess and the Frog too...several times. I know, I'm hopeless!

Can't wait to hear if you get the cruise!

Update coming this weekend...:rolleyes1

[stace208]

Haven't eaten here but we are in March!

Great, I can't wait to hear what you think...hopefully you like it!!

I'm a fan of the Bangers and Mash, what do you like here?

I got the fish and chips when we ate here. I don't really like fish but thought this was super. John got a steak and I think it came with something else. That steak was sooooo good. Rivals Le Cellier, really! Now, I'm not sure if the steak is on the lunch menu. I'll probably go with the fish and chips again. Oh, and for dessert I will be getting sticky toffee pudding. Have you ever had it? It's not like pudding-it's cake like and super yummo!
MMMM, love the fried chicken!

That's what I'll be getting for sure!
We love this one, if you like ham be sure to get some! Also the chocolate turnovers....

I don't care for ham but I'll let John know. Now a chocolate turnover, that's something Ellie and I can get excited about!:yay:

We ate at Donald's breakfast in 2006 but then it was in Restaurantosaurus. It looks similar but not the same.

Another great choice! Take lots of small samples and be ready to go back for what you love!

I'm glad to hear all the positives about this place! I am going to be brave and try some new things. I'm always encouraging the kids-especially my super picky girl child-to try some new things so now I can lead by example!
Baylor stuffed himself off of the cold buffet here! He loved the cold cuts and strawberries! We enjoyed it too! Have fun!

I didn't know they had a cold buffet. I thought that was Akershus. I hope they do have it! My SIL just ate here for breakfast a couple of weeks ago and said it was pretty good. I'll be eating in the castle so I'll be good no matter what!:goodvibes
This is an awesome place, we ate at Olivia's for the first time this past December, one of our group had the pasta and shrimp and said it was super yum! I had a couple of appetizers, they were good too....

My friend recommended this too. I'm excited because it's right there. We might end up eating here before this night too if we're hanging around the resort for lunch/dinner and can snag a walk up. If not, we'll be giving Goods our business!
Another great choice, we love 1900 PF! You must try the Strawberry Soup!:goodvibes

I'm ashamed to admit it, but that soup doesn't sound appealing to me.:eek: But, I will get a little bit and give it a try, I promise!:flower3:
The next day we hit the road.:sad1:[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][/QUOTE]

I can't believe that we are missing each other by just a couple of days!! I'm super bummed!:sad1:

[stace208]

Great ADR's. I've never eating at any of those personally but I've been reading reviews about them...sounds like you picked the good ones!!

We hope so! Eating is a big part of our vacations!:rotfl:

Soooo cute that you're doing Disney Movie Sundays! What a way to get into the spirit! And your trip is only 9 sundays away?? it's gonna come sooo fast!! So exciting.

On one hand, it seems forever and yet when I think in terms of Sundays, it's not so bad!

I always cry when i watch up! also. soooo precious yeah??

Yep, it's a great one! I cry at pretty much all of them though-happy or sad!

Well, can't wait for another update!!

Hopefully this weekend after I get this week done.:headache:

I'm all caught up!! Love your ADR's!

Welcome back! Thanks, we are excited to try them!

We actually went to The Plaza last Monday for our first time and loved it. Hope you do too!!!

Yay! I'm glad to hear it! What did you eat?

Boma is another fav of ours....love both breakfast and dinner there.

I do hope I end up liking it. We might try breakfast another trip!

BTW, love the sledding pictures, I miss those days!! I honestly think the last time we went sledding my DD17 was probably 8:rolleyes1 Your pictures made me smile, thank you!!!!

Aww, I'm so glad I could make you smile!:goodvibes Kids just grow up too dang fast!:hug:

[stace208]

Love 50's Prime Time. You can't go wrong with either the fried chicken or pot roast . Also, when we were there in December, DH ordered sweet tea after our server assured us that it was real sweet tea, brewed on site. I took a sip of his and it was actually good. So, if you need a sweet tea fix, it's pretty good. :thumbsup2

SWEET TEA???!!!??? Woot!:banana: LOL! I love sweet tea if it's real sweet tea! Now, John, he drinks unsweet.:confused3 Not sure what kind of southern boy he is!

Now pot roast, that won't be on any of our plates. John and I agree on this-we don't like it one bit!:sick: :lmao: The fried chicken is going to be my pick!



LOVE it---jungle juice, or whatever they call it, is yummy delish!

I'm not a huge fan of orange juice but I am excited to give this a try because everyone talks about how good it is!



We ate here last May, and no one in my family is very adventurous! There are a LOT of choices, so everyone should find something they like! :)

Whew! Thanks for telling me that. I'm feeling better about it after reading everyone's comments!:goodvibes

[stace208]

Hello!
Great ADR's! I've always wanted to try 1900 Park Faire.
Congrats on losing 17.4 pounds! That's wonderful! I'm trying to do the same thing... I do love the Lean Cuisine pizzas! :lovestruc

Hi there! :welcome: Thanks for joining in.:goodvibes

We are really excited about our ADR's and 1900 PF looks so fun. I think my son is going to get a real hoot out of the Mad Hatter-especially with the movie coming out in March!

Thanks about the weight loss comment. :goodvibes Every day is a battle, I tell ya! It's been a doozy of a week at work and I finally got to get a workout in tonight. It felt good but I am worn out! Oh well, just gotta take it one day at a time!!

Thanks again for reading!

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

We are really excited about our ADR's

Thanks about the weight loss comment. :goodvibes Every day is a battle, I tell ya! It's been a doozy of a week at work and I finally got to get a workout in tonight. It felt good but I am worn out! Oh well, just gotta take it one day at a time!!




Your ADRs look good. I have eaten at Boma (I like it but the rest of my family were not really thrilled!), 1900 Park Fare (thought it was good), and Tusker House (We LOVE this one. We ate at Restaurantosaurs in 2007, and Tusker House is definitely better. Of course, that's just my opinion. ;))

I completely feel ya on the weight loss. Are you following a plan/diet, or are you just doing it on your own? I am doing Weight Watchers (again :rotfl:). I didn't get to go last week because of the two hour school delay, so I am really excited to go weigh in tomorrow. (I can't believe I just said that!) I will come and let you know tomorrow how I did! Good for you on working out tonight! :thumbsup2

[MeMom]

I would absolutely :love: to meet up with you guys!!! Both of those days (1st and 2nd) are kinda our "up in the air, do whatever we wanna" days so I'm sure that we can get together somewhere!! I'm so excited-it might be my very first DIS meet.:goodvibes:woohoo:

We don't really have a game plan yet. We have three ADR's spread throughout the trip, but I'll have to get the exacts from Jill on those. The rest we're just doing CS, as of now, but that is subject to change. We'll likely add one more TS.

It might not be good that we are your first DIS meet, though.
You'll probably think we're so weird that you'll never want to meet another Diser ever! :upsidedow

I am looking so forward to the trip - heat, crowds, and all. This has been the longest, drawn out winter I can remember in quite a while.

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

I lost 4.4 lbs in two weeks! Hooray! I have lost 9.6 lbs. in 5 weeks. :woohoo: Not quite as much as your 17 lbs. but I am still happy. Now if only I could feel it in my clothes!

[wigdoutdismom]

We don't really have a game plan yet. We have three ADR's spread throughout the trip, but I'll have to get the exacts from Jill on those. The rest we're just doing CS, as of now, but that is subject to change. We'll likely add one more TS.

It might not be good that we are your first DIS meet, though.
You'll probably think we're so weird that you'll never want to meet another Diser ever! :upsidedow

I am looking so forward to the trip - heat, crowds, and all. This has been the longest, drawn out winter I can remember in quite a while.

Oh poooh! You will love meeting up with them! They are the nicest ever! Just watch out for Brooklynn's flying shoes!
What worries me is that they will set the bar so high the rest of us DISers will have trouble measuring up!

[stace208]

Your ADRs look good. I have eaten at Boma (I like it but the rest of my family were not really thrilled!), 1900 Park Fare (thought it was good), and Tusker House (We LOVE this one. We ate at Restaurantosaurs in 2007, and Tusker House is definitely better. Of course, that's just my opinion. ;))

I was wondering about the difference in Restaurantosaurus and Tusker House. Glad to hear that you think TH is better!

I completely feel ya on the weight loss. Are you following a plan/diet, or are you just doing it on your own? I am doing Weight Watchers (again :rotfl:). I didn't get to go last week because of the two hour school delay, so I am really excited to go weigh in tomorrow. (I can't believe I just said that!) I will come and let you know tomorrow how I did! Good for you on working out tonight! :thumbsup2

I am doing Weight Watchers but on my own. I've done it MANY times in the past. I wouldn't be opposed to going to a meeting but can't find one that fits my schedule that is close to me. It was much easier when I didn't work because I could go to a morning one.
I can't wait to hear how you did!

[stace208]

It might not be good that we are your first DIS meet, though.
You'll probably think we're so weird that you'll never want to meet another Diser ever! :upsidedow

Don't be redonkulous MeMom! LOL! I'm a firm believer that birds of a feather flock together and we're here on the DIS together all the time. So, we'll just be weird together!:upsidedow
I am looking so forward to the trip - heat, crowds, and all. This has been the longest, drawn out winter I can remember in quite a while.

You and me both. I am ready for warm weather!!! It snowed again today here but all melted. I think it's supposed to be in the 40's all week-it will feel like a heat wave!

[stace208]

[/SIZE]I lost 4.4 lbs in two weeks! Hooray! I have lost 9.6 lbs. in 5 weeks. :woohoo: Not quite as much as your 17 lbs. but I am still happy. Now if only I could feel it in my clothes!
Way to go Maggie!:woohoo:
You will start to feel it in your clothes really soon!
I had a bad week.:sad2: But, I am determined to not let it get me down and just keep plugging away!

[stace208]

Oh poooh! You will love meeting up with them! They are the nicest ever! Just watch out for Brooklynn's flying shoes!
What worries me is that they will set the bar so high the rest of us DISers will have trouble measuring up!

You guys are too funny!:rotfl: What I need to worry about is that after I meet MeMom she'll text everyone else and tell them what a nut I am!:p Then no one will want to have a DIS meet with me!:lmao:

[stace208]

Wow! What a really busy week and weekend it has been! I hope everyone has had a good one! I sure wish I had the day off tomorrow to enjoy but no such luck anymore...it's a make up day.:sad2:

I did manage to squeeze in some Disney stuff this week so before I hit the bed I wanted to come and share with you!

At some point this week I got a package from Amazon. I saw an Alice book over on HappyDog's TR that looked really cool. Come to find out, there's a whole set of these fairytales retold by famous authors and all illustrated by Mary Blair. So, I picked these up. There's also a Cinderella but it was out of stock and will be sent when Amazon gets it. Ben wasn't very interested but Ellie has enjoyed them a lot.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0734.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0733.jpg

We had family visiting all weekend. They left earlier today and I was itching to get out of the house. John and I didn't exchange Valentine's so he agreed to go with me to the mall that has a Disney store!!:love: It's about a 45 minute drive for us. The mall was :crowded: The line for Build-A-Bear was out of the store and down past 2 more stores.:scared1:
I did manage to get some shots in The Disney store but not too many because everywhere I turned there were people blocking the shot. John thought I was crazy for taking pictures.:rotfl:
They, of course, had a bunch of Alice In Wonderland stuff.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/CIMG0002.jpg
You can't tell in this picture too clearly but there was an Alice reusable bag that I almost got but decided against in the end.
Lots of pajamas. These with everyone's favorite fairy and Ellie's impersonation of her pout. Right next to the PJ display was one with a journal that said "Who said being a brat was a bad thing?" Ellie got a kick out of that!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/CIMG0004.jpg
Summer items everywhere. I liked this Tink suit but it was declared "babyish":rolleyes:
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/CIMG0005.jpg
We're a Bolt loving family and we used to have a hamster that looked just like Rhino.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/CIMG0003.jpg
LOTS of Toy Story stuff...
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/CIMG0007.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/CIMG0006.jpg
Plush toys: $16.50 each (but BOGO right now) Handsome kid in the middle: Priceless:lovestruc
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/CIMG0001.jpg

So...what came home with me you wonder?
Continued in the next post....

[stace208]

On our way home, we decided to just stop and get Subway for me, John, and Ben. Ellie decided to eat hot dogs once home. It was Disney movie night so after we got home we picked a name and John got to pick the movie and plates. He picked to watch Bedknobs and Broomsticks that I had just grabbed at Wal-Mart on Friday night (got Ellie The Parent Trap-original version-for Valentine's Day too!).
He wasn't very into the plate designs I had so you'll see a repeat of last week's choice. Next two weeks will be different, I promise.;)
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0730.jpg

After dinner the kids hit the shower and I hit the treadmill. They were watching The Parent Trap when I came down! Love that movie! I sent them to bed though because we were up late all weekend with family.

Here are the things I got at the store today.
A large size reusable bag. This is why I didn't get the Alice one. They had a shirt similar to this but not in my size. I WILL be looking online for it.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0729.jpg
A Mickey keychain.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0728.jpg
A Minnie journal for Ellie and a Tigger mug for me. I use them at school to keep pencils/pens. Oh, and that's the same keychain.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0727.jpg
A Bolt plush for Ben and a Tigger for me:love:
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0726.jpg
And, I preordered The Princess and the Frog:yay: It was a great price for the combo pack plus I got a $10 off any purchase or $20 off a $40+ purchase for preordering. That guarantees me a trip back the weekend after it comes out--which is also the weekend after my birthday:rolleyes1

A great day with lots of Disney!:cloud9:

[stace208]

One last post...
Tuesday we had conferences all day so my kids spent the night with my MIL. That morning, without them to tend to, I had some extra time and made a call to book something.:rolleyes1
There will be drinks.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/dsc_0037-300x201.jpg
And snacks.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/dsc_0035-201x300.jpg
Along with pirates and a meeting with a young man we've met before but in a different place...
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0769.jpg

If you guessed that I booked the Pirates and Pals fireworks cruise, you are correct!:banana: I am really excited! I told John but haven't told the kids. It will be the one surprise on the June trip for them. I think they will love it.
This is the last thing I am adding on though as this trip's price tag is getting quite big. Gotta save a little for the December trip, right?:rolleyes:

I hope everyone has a great week. It's another slam packed one for me. I am the coach of an after school team (Odyssey of the Mind if you've ever heard of it) and Ben is on the team. Competition is this next Saturday so we are practicing all week. Not to mention 3 IEP meetings and a data meeting with the principal. I'll be so glad when it's all over!:thumbsup2

[Queenofallthings]

Great update!! Love the stuff you got....our store is closing in April and I'm very sad about it!!!

I can't wait to hear about the Pirate and Pals cruise...sounds like a blast!!!

Love the reusable bag!!!

[wigdoutdismom]

We have Odyssey of the mind here too, I can never figure out what the heck they are doing, that's why I stick to 2nd grade......:rolleyes1

Looks like some fun at the Disney store and congratulations on booking that cruise, you are going to have so much fun!

[SoonerGirl]

Love those books!!

I bet your kiddos will be so excited to take that cruise pirate:

[MeMom]

Yay for Disney Store purchases!

The kids will love the cruise. What a nice surprise! :)

Sound like a very busy week at school. We have a teacher work day today, so I am taking my time getting going. I don't have to get in to prepare anything, so I'm just throwing on some sweats and going in a bit later than normal.

Good luck with your competition!

[Tink9721]

I love the Tigger plush and the mug :love: Tigger is one of my favorites :)

Good luck with your busy week! :hug: It'll be busy for me too, but in a good way :upsidedow We leave for Disney TOMORROW! :banana:

[hollisterluva92]

Okay! Oficialy jealous of all the major scores you got from the Disney store! They close the one by us about a year ago :( I am planning on making t-shirts for me and my mom's spring break trip in april. I think when I get home I will start printing some disigns to try! Love the Disney Dinner thing--totally something I would do with my family! You should come over and check out my ptr! I have some yummy shopping pics also! Oh! And where did you get your camera bag? I have been looking for one for this trip that would fit my camera, tripod, and a few other essentials and that's looking like the perfect one! Thanks!

[MHTeacher]

Love the print on the reusable shopping bag---that will make a cute shirt, too!

The cruise sounds fun--Your kids will be so excited! :goodvibes

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

:cool1::cool1::banana::woohoo::yay::yay: Congrats on the pirate cruise!!!! I cannot wait to hear all about it! Take LOTS of pictures for me!!!!

Loved all your Disney goodies. I've got to get to our store asap!

[stace208]

Great update!! Love the stuff you got....our store is closing in April and I'm very sad about it!!!

I can't wait to hear about the Pirate and Pals cruise...sounds like a blast!!!

Love the reusable bag!!!

That is so sad that your store is closing. I was so upset when they closed the one closest to me. I was worried they would close this one too but we lucked out...so far!

That bag is hanging on my dining room chair. A little piece of happiness for me to look at every morning and night as I pass through!

[stace208]

We have Odyssey of the mind here too, I can never figure out what the heck they are doing, that's why I stick to 2nd grade......:rolleyes1

Let me tell you, I am the coach and there are LOTS of times that I can't figure out what they are doing!!:lmao:

Looks like some fun at the Disney store and congratulations on booking that cruise, you are going to have so much fun!

Thanks! I think we'll have a blast on the cruise!

Yay for Disney Store purchases!

The kids will love the cruise. What a nice surprise! :)

Sound like a very busy week at school. We have a teacher work day today, so I am taking my time getting going. I don't have to get in to prepare anything, so I'm just throwing on some sweats and going in a bit later than normal.

Good luck with your competition!

Thanks MeMom! It has been a monster of a week. Just got home from PTA meeting. Tomorrow is Friday and then competition Saturday.:banana: Sunday I'll be vegging in my sweats!

I love the Tigger plush and the mug :love: Tigger is one of my favorites :)

Good luck with your busy week! :hug: It'll be busy for me too, but in a good way :upsidedow We leave for Disney TOMORROW! :banana:

Sorry I didn't get on here before you left!! I bet you are having a fantabulous time!:goodvibes

[stace208]

Okay! Oficialy jealous of all the major scores you got from the Disney store! They close the one by us about a year ago :( I am planning on making t-shirts for me and my mom's spring break trip in april. I think when I get home I will start printing some disigns to try! Love the Disney Dinner thing--totally something I would do with my family! You should come over and check out my ptr! I have some yummy shopping pics also! Oh! And where did you get your camera bag? I have been looking for one for this trip that would fit my camera, tripod, and a few other essentials and that's looking like the perfect one! Thanks!

Man, it bites that they have closed so many stores. :sad2: Hopefully some of these new ones will open up near you!

I made bunches of shirts for me and the kids for last summer. Just don't have the time to do it this year. I'm having fun buying them though!:rolleyes1
I got the camera bag from Amazon. Search for Mimi Oasis. I love it!!
I'll get over to your PTR this weekend!

Love the print on the reusable shopping bag---that will make a cute shirt, too!

That bag makes me smile.:goodvibes
Unfortunately, I can't find the shirt I saw at the store online at The Disney store. Haven't had time to do a more extensive search so I hope to do that Saturday night/Sunday.

The cruise sounds fun--Your kids will be so excited! :goodvibes

Love those books!!

I bet your kiddos will be so excited to take that cruise pirate:

The books are great! I need to take them to school to read to my class.
I am so excited for the cruise. It's killing me to not tell the kids!

[stace208]

:cool1::cool1::banana::woohoo::yay::yay: Congrats on the pirate cruise!!!! I cannot wait to hear all about it! Take LOTS of pictures for me!!!!

Loved all your Disney goodies. I've got to get to our store asap!

I am so excited about the cruise and it is all thanks to YOU!!:hug:

Hope you get to a Disney store soon...it does a heart good!:goodvibes

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

Hey! How was your OM competition?

Also, I have the same reusable bag. I also have a smaller red one with Mickey's face on it. Love them.

I have not been doing very well with WW the last two weeks....time to get back on track. I only lost .2 last week. I skipped this week.:rolleyes1

[stace208]

Hey! How was your OM competition?

Hi Maggie! Competition was good, just a VERY loooooong day. I have the results in my update that I am getting ready to post. Thanks for asking.:goodvibes

Also, I have the same reusable bag. I also have a smaller red one with Mickey's face on it. Love them.

I have that one too!! A little girl in my class now was in Ellie's class in Kindergarten. Her mom worked at The Disney Store here at our mall. When they closed, she bought the whole class one of those bags!

I have not been doing very well with WW the last two weeks....time to get back on track. I only lost .2 last week. I skipped this week.:rolleyes1

Sorry you haven't been doing well. It is sooo hard!! You'll get back on track, I just know it!:thumbsup2 And hey, a loss is a loss!:goodvibes

[stace208]

Hi everyone! I haven't been a very good PTR updater here lately and I am sorry! Last weekend was Odyssey of the Mind competition. The kids did great but we were there for over 12 hours.:scared1: Sunday I rested and went shopping with Ellie. I felt like I needed to spend some time with her since I had been concentrating on OoTM so much. We just shopped at Target and got supplies for her school project at Micheal's.
I won't bore you with scoring details but my kids came in 4th!!:woohoo: There were 16 teams in our group so that's pretty dang good. I wish we would've gotten 3rd so they could have gone up and gotten a medal but I am proud of 4th place. Some of these teams practice every single day, including Saturday, so for us to even come that close is awesome. One other school in our district (13 elementary schools) placed 2nd so we placed 2nd highest in our district. Here's a picture of my kids. They are all foods as their costume.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0229.jpg
I thought that life would slow down after that but work has been downright crazy. Virginia, if you don't know, is in a major budget crisis-I think quite a many states are too. Our district is set to lose between 11-14 million dollars in funding. This means there will most definitely be personnel cuts.:sad2: Thankfully, my district's RIF doesn't punish me for the years I was off-they count all my years of service. So, while no one is "safe", being a classroom teacher with great performance reviews is about all I can do. We have a school board meeting this week coming up that our principal has asked us to attend as a show of force. I will definitely go because I hate that people are going to lose their job. We as teachers already do so much, it's hard to imagine doing even more with fewer people.:sad2:

Ok, enough of that junk!! We did have a Disney dinner last Sunday. Ben's name got picked out of the Jessie hat. He opted for the oh-so-delicious Hamburger Helper.:rolleyes: You can see his plate choice as well. Ellie insisted that Star Wars was NOT Disney but I relented since they have such a huge Star Wars presence at DHS.:) My boy loves his Star Wars.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0736.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0735.jpg

This means that this Sunday is my pick:goodvibes I don't know how it's going to work though because we are going tubing on Sunday! Well, John, Ben, and John's sister are. Ellie and I are hanging at the kids area and the lodge.;) John's parent's own a cabin in the mountains of VA. We are going there tomorrow and then over to Wintergreen on Sunday morning. We had hoped to go tomorrow afternoon but the tickets sold out in a matter of hours. Crazy!:sad2: We'll see if we get home in time or if we eat on the road. I'll be fine waiting until the next week for my pick because that means I'll be one week closer to the trip!:thumbsup2

I also managed to squeeze in some more online shopping.:rolleyes1 Since I started my diet I have been trying to avoid the kitchen at night. I think I need to avoid my computer as well! I hope to get those pictures up Sunday evening or next week. I'll also be working on my trip planner thingy while we are gone as there is no internet at the cabin.:scared1:

Hope everyone has a great weekend!! Thanks for reading:goodvibes

[stace208]

Hi everyone from snowy Suffolk, VA! I could've sworn that my calendar said MARCH but the weather doesn't seem to agree. :confused: We are home today with a snow day. Normally I would be happy but this means school on Saturday for me.:sad2: I will be a bad momma and let my kids stay home but I will drag myself to school. It's such a waste though because not enough kids will come to do anything. Hopefully they will make it a half-day though I have heard rumors that it will be a whole day. Redonkulous!!

We had a great weekend away. I don't have many pictures to share but I will post what I have. John, Ben, and John's sister had a great time tubing. Ellie and I stayed in the kid section and she greatly enjoyed the kid version of the tubing. Then we got a smores kit and roasted marshmallows at the open pit fire. After that we hit the road to come home. Made the weekend go super fast!

I also worked some on my trip planner over the weekend. Here are my final plans...please let me know what you think. I have no concept of the crowds really. Not sure how it will compare to summer. But, we are up early, rope drop folks so I think we will be fine. Also, this is just a bonus trip so I don't have grand expectations about getting much done. I just want to be there and have some Disney fun!!
Sunday, April 4th (Easter) : We will be at Laura's (DH's sister) house. As of right now, I am planning on hiding eggs for the kids. In each egg will be a scrabble letter tile. I'm going to make a "hangman" type paper for them to put the letters on after they have found all the eggs. The letters will spell out "We're going to Disney World today!" I get goosebumps just thinking about how surprised they will be.:goodvibes Our flight doesn't leave until that evening so we'll spend the afternoon with SIL, BIL, and my niece. They just went to WDW in January and had a blast. We'll head to the airport and grab some dinner. We land late, 8:20, so we'll catch ME and head to Wilderness Lodge Villas for our first trip HOME!:cloud9: Now, MK is open this night until 2 am...John thinks I am :banana: but I am thinking seriously about heading over there. Not sure I could escape without the kids though and I don't want them tired starting out. So, we'll see!

Monday, April 5th: Magic Kingdom! Maybe someday I'll be willing to start at another park but right now it's tradition to go here first. Our only scheduled meal is CP at 10. At some point in the afternoon/evening we are heading to AK for EMH 7-10. I know that it is likely to be super crowded but I want to see this park in the dark. Hopefully Ben and I will be able to at least get a ride on EE! We'll just play it all by ear!

Tuesday, April 6th: DHS at rope drop. We'll spend morning/early afternoon here. Trying to talk Ellie into ToT..we'll see.;) I'm thinking we'll head to VWL to hopefully sneak in a swim. We have HDDR tonight. Then heading to MK to see Wishes and Spectro. I'm hoping I can deal with the crowds as I want to see Spectro one last time. I am thrilled about MSEP for the summer but want to see Spectro. If it's too much tho we will head to the Poly and watch Wishes from the beach.:goodvibes

Wednesday, April 7th: Time to get our Flower and Garden on! Epcot all day til whenever we are done. No meals scheduled. I was thinking about booking something and John said go for it but I couldn't pick a place. I think we may end up walking over to The Beach Club and eating at Beaches and Cream. Or go back to VWL and swim/eat there. Or head to DTD... I'm trying to be more relaxed here....it's hard tho!

Thursday, April 8th: Departure day.:sad1: We have an ADR at Chef Mickey's for 8:05. Then I don't know where we'll go. MK? DTD? Epcot? We'll just see what we want to do. We'll need to be back at VWL probably around 1 to catch ME.

Again, please let me know if you see any major glitches in my plan. My goal this trip is really to be more flexible. I hope I can properly prepare the kids that this isn't going to be a "get a lot done" kind of trip. I'm hoping they'll just be so blown away happy that they'll be thrilled with whatever we do!

Ok, I'm going to go fight with photobucket and try to get my pictures uploaded. I'll post what I have later. Also, tomorrow is my 30 day mark!!!:dance3::yay::woohoo::dance3:

[SoonerGirl]

I love the way you plan to tell the kids! That should be so much fun - make sure you have the video camera rolling!

I think your plans look good, this is a bonus trip and there is no telling how crowded it will be that week, so having a lot of 'go with the flow' time is good. :thumbsup2

As far as park touring goes, the one thing I can tell you from being there at a busy time is, get there early - I'm a firm believer in rope drop!

[MHTeacher]

I love the way you plan to tell your kids with the scrabble tiles. That's great!

We've never been there at Easter, but I would imagine that they're pretty comparable to New Years Eve crowds, which we experienced first hand a few months ago. :scared1: It's probably best not to have great expectations--flexibility is a plus during a crowded holiday time. ~ We just soaked up the atmosphere, enjoyed some things we normally skip over, and of course, just had fun being at Disney! :thumbsup2

[stace208]

I love the way you plan to tell the kids! That should be so much fun - make sure you have the video camera rolling!

Thanks Michelle! I got the Scrabble idea from HappyDog and just modified it a bit to fit the holiday and that my kids are a bit older. The camera will definitely be rolling!!!

I think your plans look good, this is a bonus trip and there is no telling how crowded it will be that week, so having a lot of 'go with the flow' time is good. :thumbsup2

Yep, you're right, go with the flow will have to be my motto. It's funny, I'm not a huge "planner" in real life but I like my Disney trips to be maximized so it's hard for me not to uber plan.

As far as park touring goes, the one thing I can tell you from being there at a busy time is, get there early - I'm a firm believer in rope drop!

We're firm believers in rope drop. Did it even in January with low crowds. In June it was a necessity!!

I love the way you plan to tell your kids with the scrabble tiles. That's great!

Thanks Michelle! Can't take credit for the the tile idea totally but I changed it up a bit and think it will be gads of fun!

We've never been there at Easter, but I would imagine that they're pretty comparable to New Years Eve crowds, which we experienced first hand a few months ago. :scared1: It's probably best not to have great expectations--flexibility is a plus during a crowded holiday time. ~ We just soaked up the atmosphere, enjoyed some things we normally skip over, and of course, just had fun being at Disney! :thumbsup2

I think the crowds will be comparable too. I think since we know we're going again in June with much more time it will be easier to just enjoy and maybe do some other things. Plus, it's great practice for our after Christmas trip!:rolleyes:

[stace208]

Picture time!
Some random Blue Ridge Parkway pictures.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0235.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0236.jpg
Wintergreen photos
This is the big tubing track.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0246.jpg
All bundled up.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0249.jpg
Perfect snowball
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0750.jpg
Ellie tubing on the kiddie slope.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0747.jpg

A happy wet and tired boy.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0753.jpg

Here's why we are home today??:confused3
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0755.jpg

Lastly, MORE things I have purchased. ;) Last year, I wanted a 2009 hoodie but couldn't find my size at any park store. This year, when I saw it was online I decided to just buy it now. Then, I just HAD to get enough to get the $5 shipping, right?:rolleyes1
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0737.jpg
A hoodie for Ellie
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0740.jpg
Shirts
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0741.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0742.jpg
Ok, we're off to enjoy our snow day!!

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

Hey there! Can you believe this weather? When I went to bed last night they said it was over-and then that 6 a.m. call came saying that school was canceled! I can't believe there is snow on the ground in March! At least the forecast is calling for warmer temperatures by the weekend and into next week. It's supposed to be in the upper 50s. (Of course when I checked this morning it had 60s next week. I wish that would happen!)

Your pictures from tubing look great! I bet my kids would really enjoy that.

Your trip is getting so close! I can't wait to read all the details. We are traveling to Massachusetts over Spring Break. That is where all of my in-laws live. I wish I was going to Florida instead.

I saw that your Saturday make-up day is THIS Saturday. They sure don't mess around do they? It says it's a full day, too. :headache:

I wonder what Newport News will do. I hope it's not just the elementary school kids who have to make it up again. If so, I may keep my girls home, too.

Did you see that Hampton is cutting salaries? Yikes:scared1:

[MeMom]

Normally I would be happy but this means school on Saturday for me.:sad2: I will be a bad momma and let my kids stay home but I will drag myself to school. It's such a waste though because not enough kids will come to do anything. Hopefully they will make it a half-day though I have heard rumors that it will be a whole day. Redonkulous!!

Sunday, April 4th (Easter) : We will be at Laura's (DH's sister) house. As of right now, I am planning on hiding eggs for the kids. In each egg will be a scrabble letter tile. I'm going to make a "hangman" type paper for them to put the letters on after they have found all the eggs. The letters will spell out "We're going to Disney World today!" I get goosebumps just thinking about how surprised they will be.:goodvibes Our flight doesn't leave until that evening so we'll spend the afternoon with SIL, BIL, and my niece.


Also, tomorrow is my 30 day mark!!!:dance3::yay::woohoo::dance3:

We're doing make-up days half hour a day for a month. Not fun.

Your reveal sounds good. I like that you are not taking straight off to the airport. Having some time to let it sink in and be excited about it for the afternoon sounds like a good idea to me. I want to see the video of it all! :)

When we reach the 30 day mark, it always seems to just speed by. :woohoo:

[stace208]

Hey there! Can you believe this weather? When I went to bed last night they said it was over-and then that 6 a.m. call came saying that school was canceled! I can't believe there is snow on the ground in March! At least the forecast is calling for warmer temperatures by the weekend and into next week. It's supposed to be in the upper 50s. (Of course when I checked this morning it had 60s next week. I wish that would happen!)

This weather is crazy!! I hope this is the end of it. I saw the 60's for next week. THAT I hope they got right!:lmao:

Your pictures from tubing look great! I bet my kids would really enjoy that.

If they like to go fast, then they will have a blast. Even the kiddie one went fast! The big one went over 30 mph!

Your trip is getting so close! I can't wait to read all the details. We are traveling to Massachusetts over Spring Break. That is where all of my in-laws live. I wish I was going to Florida instead.

Right now my trip seems a world away and yet I know it will come up fast. Especially with a busy month ahead.

I saw that your Saturday make-up day is THIS Saturday. They sure don't mess around do they? It says it's a full day, too. :headache:

Yep. Crazy is all I have to say. Seems like they could give everyone some time to plan. I know lots of folks who already had things scheduled. What subs are going to come in for a Sat.? Gonna be interesting for sure...:confused: And a whole day.:headache::headache:

I wonder what Newport News will do. I hope it's not just the elementary school kids who have to make it up again. If so, I may keep my girls home, too.

I just don't see how that is fair. I don't blame you for keeping them home if that happens.

Did you see that Hampton is cutting salaries? Yikes:scared1:

No, I didn't see that. I am not surprised. I think it's likely here too. Honestly, I would be fine with a cut if it means people can keep their jobs.

[stace208]

We're doing make-up days half hour a day for a month. Not fun.

You're right MeMom, that's not fun. One full day Saturday will be done and over with but I feel for you to have to add that to so many days.

Your reveal sounds good. I like that you are not taking straight off to the airport. Having some time to let it sink in and be excited about it for the afternoon sounds like a good idea to me. I want to see the video of it all! :)

Thanks! We talked about just putting them in the car thinking we were going to dinner or something but decided against it. I was thinking like you that it would be good for them to have time to digest it and really get excited. Plus, I want to have time to pack their plane bags and make sure I have what they really want in there!

When we reach the 30 day mark, it always seems to just speed by. :woohoo:

Oh, I hope you're right! Right now it seems a lifetime away!

[MHTeacher]

Looks like ya'll had fun tubing on the mountain!

Love all your Disney goodies---especially the Disney hoodie-very cute! :thumbsup2

[stace208]

Looks like ya'll had fun tubing on the mountain!

Love all your Disney goodies---especially the Disney hoodie-very cute! :thumbsup2

Tubing was a blast!

I :love: my hoodie!:goodvibes Now if it would just get warm enough for me to wear it out!:rolleyes:

[stace208]

SUPER long day here...lots of testing followed by running around followed by sitting in a school board budget meeting listening to everyone trying to save their jobs...:sad2:

Everytime it started to wear on me I remembered one thing:
30 DAYS:dance3::banana::woohoo::yay::dance3:

30 Days until we're here!!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSCN0695.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSCN0694.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSCN0697.jpg

I just can't wait!!

[stace208]

Saturday school done!
Whew!! What a long day. I had 22 show up (4 missing) and lost some more as the day went on (17 left at bus call). The teacher across the hall-Ellie's class-only had 15. Needless to say we did lots of centers, watched one Magic School Bus, cleaned our desks, and enjoyed donuts and juice that I brought in (shhh, don't tell:rolleyes1). I know tomorrow will go quickly but I plan on enjoying every minute of it:goodvibes Now- NO MORE SNOW!!:rotfl:

I wanted to share these pictures. Ellie is so proud of herself. To help pass the long winter months, I got some puzzles. Ellie loves them, as does John. I do some and my sister enjoys working on them when she's here too. So, here are some pictures of the ones we've done. They are all spread out on my dining room table and I got a new one the other day so somethings gonna have to get taken apart.
This is the first one we did and my favorite.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0676.jpg
Victory over the puzzle and a close-up. I see now that they took this one apart today while I was at school and started the new one. You can see a bit of another one in the background-purple with all the animals. I can't find the picture of that one...
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0056-1.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0057.jpg
Here's Ellie working on one that we got at Dollar Tree. We have the big one too--it has all the animals/people in love.:lovestruc
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/DSC_0013.jpg

I'll close with a picture. This is a view I plan to have in 28 (:banana:) days-the castle while riding Dumbo with my girl!:goodvibes
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0482-1.jpg

[SoonerGirl]

Cute puzzles! I'm always looking for new Disney puzzles to do with Jared, I've never seen those, where did you find them?

[MHTeacher]

Oh, wow, those pictures of the WL make me want to be there. Now that we have 5 in our family, we just don't fit there anymore. :sad2:

Love all the puzzles---it reminds me that we need to break some of ours out in anticipation of the trips! :woohoo:

[stace208]

Cute puzzles! I'm always looking for new Disney puzzles to do with Jared, I've never seen those, where did you find them?

I got the big panorama ones at Target and KMart. Just got a new Mickey one at Target that's pretty neat looking too. Also found one at Micheal's (arts and craft store-do you have that?). Let me know if you can't find any as I can always get you one and mail it out!

[stace208]

Oh, wow, those pictures of the WL make me want to be there. Now that we have 5 in our family, we just don't fit there anymore. :sad2:

Love all the puzzles---it reminds me that we need to break some of ours out in anticipation of the trips! :woohoo:

I'm sorry that they don't have rooms at all the resorts that would fit a larger family.

Even though we are a family of 4, our problem is that our kids don't like to sleep together and as they get older that won't be practical anyways. We picked WL our first trip because of the bunk beds. Then Beach Club and the Poly had the daybed option. I don't know what they're going to do Spring Break as the 1 BR only has a pull out sofa. Ben can sleep anywhere so he'll probably crash on the floor. In June we're taking an air mattress.

I love doing fun little Disney things to keep the feeling going between trips!:goodvibes

[jenniferkeala808]

26 days until you folks are in that beautiful resort?!?!?! So exciting!! :banana:
I just LLLOOOVVVEE those puzzles! Where did you get those from? I cannot find puzzles like that here in Hawaii! Congrats to Ellie for doing a wonderful job!! :cool1:

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

Love the panorama puzzles! I have seen them at Target but never purchased one.

Are you enjoying this fantastic weather?

Guess what! I get to go to Orlando with my husband on a business trip next month! :cool1: We aren't going to go to any WDW parks, but we are going to stay at POP Century. It's only for two nights, but it will be a little Disney taste-and some time alone for us! He has a two hour meeting on a Wednesday morning. I am going to fly down on Wednesday late morning, and then we are going to stay until Friday afternoon. I am so excited and I can't believe it's working out! We are planning to go to SeaWorld just because our Busch Gardens passes will get us in for free. Also, we are going to have breakfast at Kona on our last morning! :rotfl:

[stace208]

26 days until you folks are in that beautiful resort?!?!?! So exciting!! :banana:
I just LLLOOOVVVEE those puzzles! Where did you get those from? I cannot find puzzles like that here in Hawaii! Congrats to Ellie for doing a wonderful job!! :cool1:

I got the panoramas at Target and KMart. I wonder if you could order them from Target online or perhaps Amazon?

I just can't wait to get to Wilderness Lodge. I am sooooo in need of a break!:cloud9:

[stace208]

Love the panorama puzzles! I have seen them at Target but never purchased one.

Are you enjoying this fantastic weather?

Oh yes!! I am loving the weather. I just wish it was staying but they are calling for rain and then to cool back down. As long as there is NO MORE SNOW!!

Guess what! I get to go to Orlando with my husband on a business trip next month! :cool1: We aren't going to go to any WDW parks, but we are going to stay at POP Century. It's only for two nights, but it will be a little Disney taste-and some time alone for us! He has a two hour meeting on a Wednesday morning. I am going to fly down on Wednesday late morning, and then we are going to stay until Friday afternoon. I am so excited and I can't believe it's working out! We are planning to go to SeaWorld just because our Busch Gardens passes will get us in for free. Also, we are going to have breakfast at Kona on our last morning! :rotfl:

YAY!:banana: That rocks! You guys will have a great time!! Just being on Disney property will be fun and tide you over until your family trip. Lucky girl!:goodvibes

[stace208]

Happy Almost Friday! The week has gone faster than I thought it would...which is a good thing!

We are going to my sister's house tomorrow after school. We haven't been up since Christmas so we decided to head up there for the weekend. We're going to go to a big outlet mall-Potomac Mills-while we are there. Love that place! They have a Disney outlet so I am sure I will find something to buy. I'll try to remember my camera so I can take pictures too!

I can't believe that after this weekend we only have 2 weekends left before our trip! Is it only me that it seems like your trip is forever away and then BOOM you are somehow behind on packing and getting ready??? I had the kids try on shorts and bathing suits tonight. They thought I was crazy but did it under the guise of going to the outlets this weekend. It wasn't a total fib though because I do plan on buying them some shorts there if I can find them...they'll just be wearing them sooner than they think!:rolleyes1

24 days from today we will be eating breakfast with these two friends!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Image140.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Image160.jpg

And MeMom's favorite!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Image154.jpg

Can you tell it was super hot when we were there last June??:rotfl: Some of that was wet from Kali though!

Have a great weekend if I don't have a chance to check back in!:goodvibes

[MHTeacher]

Wow, only 24 days! :woohoo: With a busy weekend already planned, and then just two more weekends, it will fly by!

[MeMom]

Ben can sleep anywhere so he'll probably crash on the floor. In June we're taking an air mattress.

I love doing fun little Disney things to keep the feeling going between trips!:goodvibes

We don't mind crashing on the floor, either. We take turns from bed, to air mattress, to floor, just depending on what mood anyone is in. At Christmas, Trent, Jarvis, Drew, and I all shared a room, and none of us were going to sleep together, so we rotated throughout the trip.

We keep the Disney spirit alive however we can. :wizard:
Do you listen to the Disney radio stations on Live 365? Disney music in the background while you are working is happiness.



I got the panoramas at Target and KMart. I wonder if you could order them from Target online or perhaps Amazon?

I just can't wait to get to Wilderness Lodge. I am sooooo in need of a break!:cloud9:

We have the top puzzle, too. Maybe I'll get Brooklynn to try to help me with it over spring break.

The Wilderness Lodge pictures are so pretty!



They have a Disney outlet so I am sure I will find something to buy. I'll try to remember my camera so I can take pictures too!

And MeMom's favorite!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Image154.jpg




Yes, it does look like a warm day in Animal Kingdom.

Yay for pictures!!!

Love my Pooh friends, especially sweet Ee-war. :)

Have a fabuous weekend!

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

I was so far behind! I'm caught up now! Your tubing place looked like a blast! My DD and DH would have loved that. Loved all the shopping too. Very cute stuff! I can't believe you are so close. I am so jealous! :rolleyes:

[stace208]

Wow, only 24 days! :woohoo: With a busy weekend already planned, and then just two more weekends, it will fly by!

I sure hope it flies by! I know the weekends will because they are all jammed packed! Hopefully the school weeks will go quickly too!;)

[stace208]

We don't mind crashing on the floor, either. We take turns from bed, to air mattress, to floor, just depending on what mood anyone is in. At Christmas, Trent, Jarvis, Drew, and I all shared a room, and none of us were going to sleep together, so we rotated throughout the trip.

I'm glad to hear there are others like us. I grew up going on big family vacations where folks just slept wherever there was space. Sometimes at the beach the older cousins would sleep outside in a tent! John's family is not like that-everyone "needs" their own bed and room...

We keep the Disney spirit alive however we can. :wizard:
Do you listen to the Disney radio stations on Live 365? Disney music in the background while you are working is happiness.

I do listen to that station sometimes! I also have many of the Disney CD's that I play. I have one in the car that has 3 CD's worth of music on it that the kids and I listen to all the time. John thinks we are nuts!;)

Yay for pictures!!!

Love my Pooh friends, especially sweet Ee-war. :)

Have a fabuous weekend!

We had a great weekend but it went too quickly. :sad1: Pictures coming up!

[stace208]

I was so far behind! I'm caught up now! Your tubing place looked like a blast! My DD and DH would have loved that. Loved all the shopping too. Very cute stuff! I can't believe you are so close. I am so jealous! :rolleyes:

Rinky!! I've missed you!:hug: I hope things are settling down for you.

The tubing was a blast! We want to try at a bigger place now. Maybe Snowshoe WV next year. You guys should definitely find a place to try it!

Shopping--I have done too much! Yikes! I do like all the stuff I have gotten though!:rolleyes1

The trip is coming...I just hope it comes quickly and then slows down...hahaha:rotfl: Fat chance of that! Since I'm flying I won't be coming through NC but I can stop and get you in June...that trip is only like 100 days away!:goodvibes

[stace208]

3 weeks from today, if all flights are on time, I will be in the air on my way to Disney!! Woohoooo!! I am really starting to realize how fast this trip is coming up. With only two weekends left, and both of them full of stuff, I know my time is limited. Things I put off until "closer" to the trip now are hanging over my head. I got a few things organized this evening when we got home and plan on making a list of the other stuff I need to do. Luckily, this week is only moderately busy so I hope to get some stuff done in the evenings too. Just sooooo hard with the kids being around. Ben is sleeping over at a friend's next weekend and then has swim meet championships the next so hopefully I can get some stuff done while he is out of the house since he is the one that would pick up on "clues".

This weekend we went to my sister's house for a visit. My sister is 16 years older than me so her children are actually closer to my age. Saturday we went to a big outlet mall-Potomac Mills-to do some shopping. Got the kids some shoes, Ellie some clothes, and made a trip to The Disney Store outlet:rolleyes1 I really didn't buy that much. The store, whole mall actually, was jammed packed. It was very hard to move around. Plus, with all my recent online purchases, there wasn't really much to grab. I did get a few pictures...
Pooh and Tink mugs. I have the Tink one.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0756.jpg
Stuffed Toy Story friends.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0757.jpg
Lots of friends on clearance.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0758.jpg
An Ee-War for MeMom:goodvibes
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0759.jpg
Some Easter friends.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0760.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0762.jpg
Some t-shirts that were 3.99. I got the white Mickey. Already have the two pink ones on the right. Sassy Tink didn't come in my size.;)
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0763.jpg
Swim suits and flip flops. Ellie was mad because the flips didn't come in her size.:confused:
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0764.jpg

This store isn't like our local one with the cute theming around the store. Just displays of clothes and toys. I guess because it is an outlet. Instead of the big TV they have several small ones in the middle playing videos of Disney songs-current ones. Ellie enjoyed singing along to those. In addition to the white t-shirt I got a nightshirt, nightgowns for Ellie and my niece, a spiral journal for me and one for Ellie, and she got a Lady and the Tramp t-shirt. Not much but it was fun!

[MeMom]

3 weeks from today, if all flights are on time, I will be in the air on my way to Disney!! Woohoooo!! I am really starting to realize how fast this trip is coming up.


It will absolutely be here before you know it!



This store isn't like our local one with the cute theming around the store. Just displays of clothes and toys. I guess because it is an outlet.

We had one of each - an outlet and a themed one. We were hoping at least one of them would make the cut, but sadly, that did not happen.

Thanks for the sweet Eeyore picture.
Your thoughtfulness made me smile. :eeyore:

[SoonerGirl]

Sounds like a great way to spend the weekend! That Eeyore looks so cuddly and soft :goodvibes

The next 3 weeks are going to fly by!!

[lmillercrew]

Subbing! I found you on another TR and had to join in on the fun!

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

I can't believe how fast spring is approaching, and your trip!! I know you are getting so excited. I'm excited for you!!! I actually dreamed the other night that I took off on a whim and went to WDW, and I was telling everyone on the DIS that I was there and having a blast! :lmao: That's when you know, you've got it bad! :rotfl: I can't wait for your TR!!! :worship::woohoo:

[MHTeacher]

Lots of friends on clearance.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0758.jpg


Awwwww, this little picture reminds me of the little doggies at the pound that no one wants......:sad2:

[stace208]

Thanks for the sweet Eeyore picture.
Your thoughtfulness made me smile. :eeyore:

I'm glad it made you smile. All the pictures on your thread have certainly brightened many of my days so it was just a small repayment.:goodvibes

[stace208]

Sounds like a great way to spend the weekend! That Eeyore looks so cuddly and soft :goodvibes

The next 3 weeks are going to fly by!!

Eeyore was so very soft...he almost came home with me! But I just got a Tigger a few weeks ago so I resisted.

This week is going quickly. I should be doing something now but after work and working out, I am pooped!

[stace208]

Subbing! I found you on another TR and had to join in on the fun!

Welcome!!:welcome: I am so glad that you came over!

[stace208]

I can't believe how fast spring is approaching, and your trip!! I know you are getting so excited. I'm excited for you!!! I actually dreamed the other night that I took off on a whim and went to WDW, and I was telling everyone on the DIS that I was there and having a blast! :lmao: That's when you know, you've got it bad! :rotfl: I can't wait for your TR!!! :worship::woohoo:

I am so excited, it's soooo bad!! It helps when I am at school though because everytime the kids are getting to me I just remember how close it's getting!:rotfl:

You do have it bad if you're dreaming that. Maybe you can squeeze in a little trip somewhere...:rolleyes1

[stace208]

Awwwww, this little picture reminds me of the little doggies at the pound that no one wants......:sad2:

LOL! Too funny Michelle!

[stace208]

Today was MY lucky day!!
That Epcot day, Wednesday, on our April trip was without a dining reservation. At first I did it on purpose. I wanted to just snack and eat around the world. The more I thought about it, I realized that really wouldn't work out with the kids so then I got the ridiculous idea of booking Le Cellier and keeping it a surprise from everyone-even John. Of course, no reservations to be had. I couldn't come up with anywhere else that I wanted to eat that the kids would like that we weren't already doing in June so I just let it be. Then Sunday John says that we need to add a meal that day. He asks me to check Whispering Canyon Cafe...well, I did and they had a table, but the menu doesn't appeal to Ellie at all. Plus, honestly, I didn't want to HAVE to leave Epcot. It's our only day there for Flower and Garden so I wanted to be able to stay until we were done. Anywho, I let that reservation go blaming it all on Ellie's picky tastes...:rolleyes1 I checked Le Cellier again that night and of course, nothing.
That brings me to tonight. Sitting here while I should be making a list or gathering stuff together while the kids are sleeping. Instead I am Dising and on FB and I see some pics of Rose and Crown from Wigd. I head to the WDW site AGAIN just to look at restaurants. Pull up Le Cellier because I am a glutton for punishment and whaddya know??? An 11:30 ressie for 4 just sitting there:dance3: I couldn't believe it. Double checked the date to make sure I hadn't made a mistake. Booked that baby quick I tell ya!!
I'm not sure if I will get a steak that early in the day but I know I will get some cheese soup and pretzel bread! I also know I will be getting this
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_2463.jpg
John will likely get a steak. This is what he got last time and loved it!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_2462.jpg
I'll most likely tell him tomorrow that I got this ressie. I'm too excited to keep it all to myself after trying so many times!
I'm heading to bed and hoping for some sweet dreams!!

[Queenofallthings]

Congrats on Le Cellier....the Disney Gods were looking down on you:lmao:

[lmillercrew]

Woohoo!!!!

[MeMom]

An 11:30 ressie for 4 just sitting there:dance3: I couldn't believe it. Double checked the date to make sure I hadn't made a mistake. Booked that baby quick I tell ya!!
I'm not sure if I will get a steak that early in the day but I know I will get some cheese soup and pretzel bread!

I'll most likely tell him tomorrow that I got this ressie. I'm too excited to keep it all to myself after trying so many times!



That was a nice 'score'!
Cheese soup and pretzel bread - sweet goodness!

I might hold on to that LeCellier info for a while. Maybe when there is a lull in the Disney planning talk, you can just pull it out of the hat. Once told, it can't be untold, but still untold, it's always waiting to hop out for a nice surprise. :woohoo:

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

I might hold on to that LeCellier info for a while. Maybe when there is a lull in the Disney planning talk, you can just pull it out of the hat. Once told, it can't be untold, but still untold, it's always waiting to hop out for a nice surprise. :woohoo:

MeMom is always wise. I say keep the surprise!

Score on the Le Cellier reservation! Your trip is so close-you must be so excited! I know I am excited for my little two night excursion, and I am not even visiting a park. (Unless my wonderful DH surprises me-or I can talk him into it once we are there. ;))

[SoonerGirl]

Congrats on the Le Cellier ADR!!!

We ate there for lunch in December and I had no trouble consuming a steak that early in the day :rolleyes1

[stace208]

Congrats on Le Cellier....the Disney Gods were looking down on you:lmao:

You got that right!!:banana:

Woohoo!!!!

I second that!:dance3:

[stace208]

That was a nice 'score'!
Cheese soup and pretzel bread - sweet goodness!

I might hold on to that LeCellier info for a while. Maybe when there is a lull in the Disney planning talk, you can just pull it out of the hat. Once told, it can't be untold, but still untold, it's always waiting to hop out for a nice surprise. :woohoo:

I'll admit it, I told him the next day.:rolleyes: I went back and forth and when something about that day came up, I went ahead and spilled the beans. I don't really regret it either. He has come so far on this trip-from hating the idea completely to being as excited as I am. I knew eating there would really thrill him so I shared the news!:goodvibes Plus, all this secrety stuff is getting hard to keep up with!! I'm ready for the kids to know!

[stace208]

MeMom is always wise. I say keep the surprise!

Score on the Le Cellier reservation! Your trip is so close-you must be so excited! I know I am excited for my little two night excursion, and I am not even visiting a park. (Unless my wonderful DH surprises me-or I can talk him into it once we are there. ;))

I caved and told him! I don't feel bad though because he was super excited. I am having a hard enough time keeping the secret from the kids. It's harder to pack than I thought it would be!

I'm so excited I just don't have words. This weekend flew by and next weekend is jammed full. I just hope the school weeks go by as quickly!

I think you should try to squeeze in one park day. Maybe Epcot so you can enjoy some culture together!!:goodvibes

Congrats on the Le Cellier ADR!!!

We ate there for lunch in December and I had no trouble consuming a steak that early in the day :rolleyes1

LOL!:rotfl: I may certainly go for it as well once we get there. Yummo! I can't wait!!

[stace208]

Two weeks!!:banana: Two weeks from tonight I should be at Wilderness Lodge getting all settled in our villa! We were talking last night about when we were going to redeem our AP vouchers. We're considering heading to MK and doing it Sunday night since that park is open until 2 am. A lot will depend on how late we make it to VWL. I don't want the kids out too late since we'll be up early the next day. We'll get up even earlier Monday and redeem our vouchers if we don't do it Sunday night.

I managed to get a few things done this weekend. Not much but I made some lists which will help when I actually start to pack. I took Ellie shoe shopping both Saturday and Sunday and got nothing!!:sad2: Her foot is narrow so all the cute sandals flop up and down on her heel because the strap isn't tight enough. I ordered her some Teva's online because they are adjustable but she needs some cute white sandals too. I'll have to do internet search for narrow shoes I guess.

We also went to the Disney store today to get our Princess and the Frog preorder. I forgot my camera though so no pictures, sorry! :sad1: Got two mugs for my friend (Ellie's teacher). They will be her shower gift from Ellie (she's getting married in May). Got Ben a couple more shirts, both kids got an Easter plush (BOGO-good deal) and I got a cute Miss Bunny for my niece Sydney (who we'll be staying with before and after).
They had the most gorgeous Tiana dresses there today. Ellie fell in love and wanted one. Unlike some of the others, they were lined inside so I could see where she might actually wear it. However, I wasn't paying the $90 price tag. I told her I would check on ebay!

I have my outfits planned and some of Ellie's. I finished up getting her some shorts at Old Navy today so I can finish that. Gotta plan Ben's still. I'm getting really nervous about fitting everything into these two carry on's. John says I pack too much...:rolleyes1 Funny how he never complains when I have something he needs!
I got a new Vera to use as my park bag this trip. I hope to get a picture up of that sometime this week!
Have a great week!!

[SoonerGirl]

I'm getting really nervous about fitting everything into these two carry on's. John says I pack too much...:rolleyes1 Funny how he never complains when I have something he needs!


Am I understanding this right? You are packing for 4 in just 2 carry on's?? :scared1: If you can manage that I will bow down to you as the queen packer! :worship:

If he thinks you pack too much, your DH would HATE to travel with me! :lmao:

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Wow! You got really lucky on LC so late in the game! That is so great! We loved LC when we ate there in '08. Can't wait to see that on the TR. I'm so jealous! :rolleyes1

[stace208]

Am I understanding this right? You are packing for 4 in just 2 carry on's?? :scared1: If you can manage that I will bow down to you as the queen packer! :worship:

If he thinks you pack too much, your DH would HATE to travel with me! :lmao:

Yep, that's the deal. 2 carry on's...:scared1: You feel my pain, right??? We're flying Airtran and they charge a checked bag fee so the brillant one decided that we could only take carry on's. We'll have two suitcases and then everyone will have some sort of bag/backpack. Thankfully we'll have a washer/dryer in the villa or else it couldn't be done. When you guys read the TR you'll notice some repeat clothes!:rotfl:

[stace208]

Wow! You got really lucky on LC so late in the game! That is so great! We loved LC when we ate there in '08. Can't wait to see that on the TR. I'm so jealous! :rolleyes1

Sometimes I still can't believe that I was able to get it!!

One school day down...9 more to go. The kids are bonkers already!

[MHTeacher]

Oh my goodness! 5 days until your trip? I know that you are getting super excited! :woohoo:

[SoonerGirl]

Yep, that's the deal. 2 carry on's...:scared1: You feel my pain, right??? We're flying Airtran and they charge a checked bag fee so the brillant one decided that we could only take carry on's. We'll have two suitcases and then everyone will have some sort of bag/backpack. Thankfully we'll have a washer/dryer in the villa or else it couldn't be done. When you guys read the TR you'll notice some repeat clothes!:rotfl:

Wow - I know I couldn't do that, I don't think I could even get just MY stuff in 2 carry on's :lmao: At least you'll have a washer/dryer that will make things much easier!

Mom was saying the other day that she might try and just take a carry on - my response was why in the world would you want to do that?! We are flying SW, no checked bag fee, Disney picks them up and brings them to you - there really is no reason to try and cram everything for an entire week into a carry on. She got my point ;)

[stace208]

Oh my goodness! 5 days until your trip? I know that you are getting super excited! :woohoo:

I am super excited but we actually have 9 days until our trip. We leave Easter Sunday. I want it to come quickly and yet I need time to get some more done!!

Wow - I know I couldn't do that, I don't think I could even get just MY stuff in 2 carry on's :lmao: At least you'll have a washer/dryer that will make things much easier!

Mom was saying the other day that she might try and just take a carry on - my response was why in the world would you want to do that?! We are flying SW, no checked bag fee, Disney picks them up and brings them to you - there really is no reason to try and cram everything for an entire week into a carry on. She got my point ;)

Oh ya, if there was no checked bag fee I totally would not even be trying this. So far, it's not going well.:sad2: I've just been gathering stuff and putting it on the suitcase and I don't know how I am going to do it. John packed his things and left a 6 inch space for Ben's things. I asked him how he thought that was going to work and he insists that he's going to get it all in there this weekend.:confused3 If push comes to shove, I'll have to pack another small bag and have Ben take it as his carry on.

[MeMom]

Two weeks!!:banana: Two weeks from tonight I should be at Wilderness Lodge getting all settled in our villa! We were talking last night about when we were going to redeem our AP vouchers. We're considering heading to MK and doing it Sunday night since that park is open until 2 am. A lot will depend on how late we make it to VWL. I don't want the kids out too late since we'll be up early the next day.



I'm picturing a wonderful, relaxing evening and some pool time on arrival night. :)

[jenniferkeala808]

LET'S DO THE 1 WEEK DANCE?!?!?!?

:banana: :banana: :cool1: :cool1: :dance3: :dance3:

woohooo!!!

[stace208]

I'm picturing a wonderful, relaxing evening and some pool time on arrival night. :)

Ahhh, unfortunately we get there too late I think to swim. We don't land at MCO until a little after 8:15. By the time we get there and get in our room I'm guessing we don't do much other than walk around and then go to bed!

[stace208]

LET'S DO THE 1 WEEK DANCE?!?!?!?

:banana: :banana: :cool1: :cool1: :dance3: :dance3:

woohooo!!!

I'm here to dance!!!
1 week!!! Woooohoooooo!!!!
:banana::banana::woohoo::woohoo::dance3::dance3::c heer2::woohoo::banana:
Thanks Keala!:dance3:

[stace208]

Ch--Ch--Changes!! Nothing major, just packing changes that I kinda figured would need to come...:rolleyes1 After John started actually trying to pack, he became aware of how difficult it was going to be getting everything into the two carry-ons. While I DID get all 4 of us packed clotheswise, it was a really tight fit and some things were going to have to go in backpacks and such that I didn't want in there. Last night we bounced around some ideas-3 carry ons, checking one bag and carrying on one...etc. He finally agreed to checking one bag but not tagging it for ME. Since we get in after 8 he doesn't want to not have our luggage for the night. So, we're going to run to baggage claim and get our bag before heading to ME. Hopefully it won't add too much time to our night. I feel so much better though because we'll have more room and it won't be as hard to get through security since we won't have any liquids. I'm hoping to not have to take another carry on (besides our bags that we'll all have) but I'm leaving that option open.

With that decision out of the way, I feel so much better and am ready for this trip. Goodness knows I need it! I have a busy week ahead school wise trying to get some last minute teaching and testing done before spring break. :teacher: It's amazing what they lose over a 5 day period! Plus, I am out of my classroom all day on Thursday for vertical planning so that means I only really have 4 days and one of them is Friday which will be more crowd control than anything else!:rolleyes: John is working overtime this week to flex some of his vacation days so I have to also get the kids to their activities and such. Luckily Ben's swim team ended this weekend so that's one less place to go each night.

I need to make a list of all the things I have left to do. I know they changed park hours and schedules so I also have to update my trip planner.

Whew, I am just babbling tonight! One cute story before I go...John's sister, Laura, was down this weekend with her daughter. She is the one we're staying with next weekend and is taking us to the airport. Anyways, as we were leaving last night she told the kids that she'd see them next weekend for Easter and it was going to be the best day ever. Ben's reply "I'm excited about coming but going to Disney World would be the best day ever..." Isn't that great???? All the adults just looked at each other and grinned!!:cloud9:

I'll be checking in this week! Thanks to those of you who have stuck around reading my madness!!:upsidedow

[SoonerGirl]

Yay for John finally seeing the light and allowing you to check a bag! :woohoo: I really understand his desire not to - those checked bag fees are ridiculous, but it's better than stressing over what you can take :thumbsup2

I'd love to be a fly on the wall on Sunday to see your kids reactions when they learn that they are going to WDW - I'm so excited that you were able to keep the surprise!

[MHTeacher]

Anyways, as we were leaving last night she told the kids that she'd see them next weekend for Easter and it was going to be the best day ever. Ben's reply "I'm excited about coming but going to Disney World would be the best day ever..."

Awww, I'm smiling just reading that, thinking, "Ben, if you only knew........." :)

[Happydog]

Well at least I finally made it over to wish you a proper send off and happy vibes for the final few days as you get ready for your wonderful trip to DISNEY!!! How exciting for you! And then another in a few short months!!! That is the only way to keep the Disney blues away :laughing: Looking forward to the trip count down mayhem!

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

I'm going to go ahead and send you my well wishes now because things are getting ready to get crazy over here with Easter coming! :scared1: So I hope you guys have a very safe and magical trip! :wizard: I am so excited to hear all about it when you get back, so take lots of pictures for me (and enjoy that wonderful bread and steak for me at LC:worship: they really need a drooling smiley on the DIS)!

[stace208]

Yay for John finally seeing the light and allowing you to check a bag! :woohoo: I really understand his desire not to - those checked bag fees are ridiculous, but it's better than stressing over what you can take :thumbsup2

I'd love to be a fly on the wall on Sunday to see your kids reactions when they learn that they are going to WDW - I'm so excited that you were able to keep the surprise!

Oh yes, packing has gone much better now! I think I am just about done!

We plan on videoing the "reveal" so hopefully I'll be able to figure out how to post that on here!:upsidedow

[stace208]

Awww, I'm smiling just reading that, thinking, "Ben, if you only knew........." :)

I know!! That's exactly what we were all thinking.:goodvibes I can't wait until they finally know-they are going to be SO excited! I know I am!!

[stace208]

Well at least I finally made it over to wish you a proper send off and happy vibes for the final few days as you get ready for your wonderful trip to DISNEY!!! How exciting for you! And then another in a few short months!!! That is the only way to keep the Disney blues away :laughing: Looking forward to the trip count down mayhem!

Thanks for coming over HD!! Mayhem...I don't know what you are referring to...none of that here-HA!:rolleyes1

I'm going to go ahead and send you my well wishes now because things are getting ready to get crazy over here with Easter coming! :scared1: So I hope you guys have a very safe and magical trip! :wizard: I am so excited to hear all about it when you get back, so take lots of pictures for me (and enjoy that wonderful bread and steak for me at LC:worship: they really need a drooling smiley on the DIS)!

Thanks Rinky!:goodvibes I hope you have a great Easter weekend. Is your spring break after Easter also? If so, enjoy the time with your DD!:goodvibes I'll be back with lots of pics!:love:

[stace208]

Yay!! It's Friday!!:banana::banana: Last day of school before break and our trip!!

TRIP?? Aaaaack-it's Friday and I still have MUCH to do!! :rotfl: Oh well, it's fun stuff and I will enjoy doing it all!!

I will be glad to have this week behind me. School has been c-r-a-z-y to say the least. I didn't get everything done that I needed to and today won't be much better but it will all get done eventually!! Plus, to top it all off I am sick.:sick: Blech. I thought it was allergies at first but I am pretty sure it's a cold. I feel better today so I am hoping it's on the way out. Ben had it early in the week and seems all better. I just hope John and Ellie don't catch it now because they'd still be yucky on the trip!

My friend asked me yesterday what I was going to do about my trip since I was sick. Huh???:confused3 I know I must've looked at her like she had 6 heads. I told her first of all it's just a cold and secondly, I'd have to be chained to a hospital bed to not get on that plane Sunday night!:lmao:

Hope everyone has a great Friday! I hope to be back at least one more time before we leave!:dance3:

[MeMom]

We plan on videoing the "reveal" so hopefully I'll be able to figure out how to post that on here!:upsidedow

We have to see the video! :cool1: I will be watching with a huge smile on my face. :)

[Happydog]

Wow! have a great time! I hope the crowds dont cause you too much grief, but if ever you are in the thick of it, just remember you are in Disney!! I hear the weather is wonderful down there! I hope you have a lovely time and enjoy everything!!!!

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

Stacy-I hope you all have a FANTASTIC time! It looks like the weather will be beautiful! I can't wait to hear all about once you return.

Here's a little pixiedust to help you feel better and to keep anyone else from getting sick: pixiedust:

[lmillercrew]

Have a GREAT time this week! Be thinking of all of us back at home wishing we were down there having a BLAST!!! Hope you feel better soon. I'm sure that once you get there, you'll forget all about your stuffy, sneezing, coughing, fever, and sniffling. ;)

[MHTeacher]

My friend asked me yesterday what I was going to do about my trip since I was sick. Huh???:confused3 I know I must've looked at her like she had 6 heads. I told her first of all it's just a cold and secondly, I'd have to be chained to a hospital bed to not get on that plane Sunday night!:lmao:


:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2: That is exactly right, girl! :thumbsup2

By now, I know that you are at Disney. I hope you have a magical time---Can't wait to hear about it!

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Just thought of you today as I sit here with a house full of wild children out on spring break, piles of laundry to do :laundy: , a sink full of dishes, and a major allergy flare up due to the 10 inches of pollen that covers EVERYTHING! Something tells me that you are enjoying a relaxing ride on Soarin' and headed for a nice quiet dinner at Le Cellier (where there will be no sink full of dishes awaiting you afterwards). :rolleyes1 My envy has even turned my text green! :rolleyes:

[stace208]

Hi everyone!!
We are home!! Got in an hour or so ago and now getting ready to go get the dog.
I will be getting pictures uploaded tonight and tomorrow so I can get started on the trip report before I head back to work on Monday. My first priority will be getting the video of the "reveal" up...it was classic!!

Thanks for all the well wishes. It was a wonderful trip and I can't wait to relive it and share it with you guys!!:goodvibes

[Happydog]

Glad you had a great time! Can't wait to hear all about it!!!

[MeMom]

Hi everyone!!
We are home!! Got in an hour or so ago and now getting ready to go get the dog.
I will be getting pictures uploaded tonight and tomorrow so I can get started on the trip report before I head back to work on Monday. My first priority will be getting the video of the "reveal" up...it was classic!!

Thanks for all the well wishes. It was a wonderful trip and I can't wait to relive it and share it with you guys!!:goodvibes

So ready to see how it went! :)

[SoonerGirl]

Welcome home Stacy! I can't wait to see the big reveal! :banana:

[stace208]

Glad you had a great time! Can't wait to hear all about it!!!

Thanks! I am excited to start writing!

So ready to see how it went! :)

Coming up soon, I hope!

Welcome home Stacy! I can't wait to see the big reveal! :banana:

Thanks Michelle! Pictures are uploading right now...well, trying to. Photobucket is being a pill and the video is too big so I may have to try another site!

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

Thanks! I am excited to start writing!

Coming up soon, I hope!

Photobucket is being a pill and the video is too big so I may have to try another site!

Well, hop to it won't ya? Don't you know we are all waiting? I know you don't have anything else to do after coming home from vacation-no laundry, grocery shopping, cleaning up, unpacking....I am sure that the only thing on your to-do list is to get that video uploaded so you can please your DIS friends!:laughing:

I can't wait to see the big surprise! I bet your kids were just beside themselves.

Guess what-I am getting to go to a park next week after all! We are going to hit Magic Kingdom on Wednesday-and do the Wishes Dessert Buffet! I called yesterday on a whim, and they had spots available. I went ahead and booked, but made sure I could cancel if DH said no. I offered a compromise to DH and said if we went to MK this time that I'd give up the babysitter and night out at Le Cellier on our August trip. He told me to keep both! :love:I love him! And I am even more super excited about out little getaway now.

[stace208]

Well, hop to it won't ya? Don't you know we are all waiting? I know you don't have anything else to do after coming home from vacation-no laundry, grocery shopping, cleaning up, unpacking....I am sure that the only thing on your to-do list is to get that video uploaded so you can please your DIS friends!:laughing:

I can't wait to see the big surprise! I bet your kids were just beside themselves.

Guess what-I am getting to go to a park next week after all! We are going to hit Magic Kingdom on Wednesday-and do the Wishes Dessert Buffet! I called yesterday on a whim, and they had spots available. I went ahead and booked, but made sure I could cancel if DH said no. I offered a compromise to DH and said if we went to MK this time that I'd give up the babysitter and night out at Le Cellier on our August trip. He told me to keep both! :love:I love him! And I am even more super excited about out little getaway now.


I'm working on it, I promise!! The video was too big for Photobucket so John is doing something to it to make it smaller for me. He's working on it right now!

I'm so excited for you!!! Magic Kingdom would be my pick for a park too and the Wishes dessert party sounds like so much fun!

[MHTeacher]

Welcome Home! :)

I can't wait to see the big reveal and hear all about your trip! :thumbsup2

[stace208]

I started my Trip Report. The video isn't up there yet but will be very soon!:goodvibes

VIDEO is up now on the trip report!

A Surprise Spring Break Trip filled with Fun and Sun! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=36198799&posted=1#post36198799)

[stace208]

My poor, poor neglected PTR! I seem to have trouble keeping up with two things but I will do a better job this weekend!

I have been inspired by others to do a flashback of some previous Disney trips so I plan to get some of that up on here this weekend. I've got to find those pictures of my first trip...

In trip related news, I booked another breakfast for our trip. 'Ohana!! I'm so excited! I got it for a later time since we have the Pirates and Pals fireworks cruise the night before. Then later that same day I am hoping for a wonderful DIS meet with MeMom and Jill!:yay:

One last thing for this short update...




60 Days!!:dance3::dance3:party:

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

I can't wait to hear what you think of the Ohana breakfast. You'll be there just about a month before me I think. I am just taking Johanna to that one while Jason takes the older girls to Typhoon Lagoon.

[MeMom]

In trip related news, I booked another breakfast for our trip. 'Ohana!! I'm so excited! I got it for a later time since we have the Pirates and Pals fireworks cruise the night before. Then later that same day I am hoping for a wonderful DIS meet with MeMom and Jill!:yay:



Have we set specifics for this yet?
What day, where, what time?
I apologize if I am forgetting exacts.
Between end-of-school stuff, Bella's surgery, the Mary Poppins meet, the Mother's Day trip, and the summer trip, I want to make sure I have all my ducks in a row. :)

[stace208]

I can't wait to hear what you think of the Ohana breakfast. You'll be there just about a month before me I think. I am just taking Johanna to that one while Jason takes the older girls to Typhoon Lagoon.

That'll be neat for the two of you to have some special time.:goodvibes
Have you guys been to Typhoon Lagoon before? That's where we went last year and we really liked it. Tell your DH to be sure to get some of the the little donut thingies there for a snack. They are super yummy!

[stace208]

Have we set specifics for this yet?
What day, where, what time?
I apologize if I am forgetting exacts.
Between end-of-school stuff, Bella's surgery, the Mary Poppins meet, the Mother's Day trip, and the summer trip, I want to make sure I have all my ducks in a row. :)

No worries, I know you have lots going on.
As of right now, the plan was for you guys to come to OKW at some point that afternoon. You and Jill can come look at our room and you should bring swimsuits and let the girls swim. We have a ressie at 5 for Olivia's but before that I'm sure my two will be swimming too.
If something comes up or needs to change then we'll see what else we can cook up!

[MeMom]

No worries, I know you have lots going on.
As of right now, the plan was for you guys to come to OKW at some point that afternoon. You and Jill can come look at our room and you should bring swimsuits and let the girls swim. We have a ressie at 5 for Olivia's but before that I'm sure my two will be swimming too.
If something comes up or needs to change then we'll see what else we can cook up!

Aaaah, yeah, now I remember! That is on the 1st, is that correct? That's the first full day of our trip. We're bringing the guys over with us, hopefully, as they have never seen OKW, and we really want them to. Maybe we can just get some burgers over at Good's and sit out by the pool and eat and let the girls get wet. I know Brooklynn would love it! I am thinking we might do that for lunch, and then get them back for afternoon naps. If not, we'll meet you shortly before your Olivia's reservation, but hopefully the lunch and swim will work out. :goodvibes

I am so sorry - I have so many dates and times and names swirling around in my head right now. Keep me straight on this! :thumbsup2

[stace208]

Aaaah, yeah, now I remember! That is on the 1st, is that correct? That's the first full day of our trip. We're bringing the guys over with us, hopefully, as they have never seen OKW, and we really want them to. Maybe we can just get some burgers over at Good's and sit out by the pool and eat and let the girls get wet. I know Brooklynn would love it! I am thinking we might do that for lunch, and then get them back for afternoon naps. If not, we'll meet you shortly before your Olivia's reservation, but hopefully the lunch and swim will work out. :goodvibes

I am so sorry - I have so many dates and times and names swirling around in my head right now. Keep me straight on this! :thumbsup2

Yeppers, that's the 1st of July!:thumbsup2

Lunchtime should be just fine. We have our 'Ohana breakfast at 10:20 so I'm sure we will be back to OKW by lunchtime. We'll be stuffed, I'm sure, but you guys can grab some lunch and the kids can swim while we chat and look at the room!:goodvibes

[stace208]

Flashbacks, Part 1
I have been inspired by a few others to do some flashbacks. I am still on the hunt for pictures from MY first Disney trip and I'm hoping to grab some from DH's when we eat at his parent's house Wednesday night.
In the meantime, I loaded up a few pictures from Ben and Ellie's first trip. Ben was 5 and Ellie was 3. Brought a smile to my face and tears to my eyes to see my babies.... Seems like yesterday and yet they've both changed soooo much.:goodvibes

We waited in line at the Judge's tent on our first day to see the big cheese. Ellie was petrified of the characters. She only had one good experience. I'll be posting that picture also in a bit.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0650.jpg
Some random pictures.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0652.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0707.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0676.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0665.jpg

We only ate at one character meal this trip: Donald's Breakfastosaurus. At that time, it was at Restaurantosaurus. I was such a Disney novice then but I did know to call and get a reservation before park opening!!

Ellie was scared of the characters the whole time. She ate not one bite of food. Mickey was the last character to come. She came out of hiding for him...and even offered a smile.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0668.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0670.jpg
Here comes the one and only smile for a character!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0669.jpg

Funny thing...nowadays Ellie doesn't eat much at character meals but for the opposite reason. She's so excited about seeing them that she watches for them instead of eating!:goodvibes

A few more in the next post..

[stace208]

Here are a few more shots.
Ben, the charmer, loved meeting the princesses. I had hopes that Ellie would be ok with the face characters but no luck.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0803.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0804.jpg

I don't know what he was upset about but look at that face.:confused:
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0698.jpg

Nothing a little Goofy hat can't cure. Ellie got Pluto.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0700.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0732.jpg
Silliness!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0733.jpg

This is DTD on our last night. Taken shortly before my breakdown in WoD...that store was so big and it was hard keeping up with the kids, deciding on purchases, etc. We had a coupon so John had made me wait until then to get anything and I couldn't remember everything so I crossed the store umpteen times. I was exhausted, hot, and fed up! Needless to say, I have since learned that the best time to go is early morning or to go several times and just get a few things each trip!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/DSCN0795.jpg

It was a truly magical trip! I was already a huge Disney fan in general but this resparked my love for WDW. As my sil would say, John and I both drank the kool-aid...:rotfl: When we left we planned to return in 3 years. It turned out to be 2...now I can't imagine even waiting that long!!

[SoonerGirl]

Love the flashback pictures Stacy! Your kiddos were so little :goodvibes

Ben's face in the picture in front of the hat is priceless - he looks totally fed up with the picture taking! :laughing:

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

Love the flashback pictures Stacy! Your kiddos were so little :goodvibes

Ben's face in the picture in front of the hat is priceless - he looks totally fed up with the picture taking! :laughing:

I agree completely! The picture of Ben made me LOL. :rotfl:

I guess I drank the Kool-Aid too, but you know what? I didn't even realize I drank it until after we were home from our first trip. It took a few weeks at home before I realized how much I loved it and how I couldn't wait to go back.

To answer your earlier questions-we have not been to Typhoon Lagoon. At this point I am toying with the idea of sending them to Aquatica instead. Mostly this is because it is free for us to get in there. My sister went to Aquatica last summer and loved it. Anyone have any advice? :confused3

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

Why is my ticker gone again?? :confused3 I changed it when there were problems before...

[MHTeacher]

Stacy, I completely understand about trying to keep a PTR and a TR going at the same time. I guess it's just one of the costs for us getting so lucky as to get to go to Disney on back-to-back trips ! :thumbsup2

I'm so glad you're trying 'Ohana breakfast. We really enjoy this one. Hope you all do to. AND, :yay: for a DIS meet with MeMom and Jill and those sweet girls!

Love the flashback pictures. If you and John drank the kool-aid on that trip, I think Ben must have had some too. His expression in each picture, just says, "I love this place!" :goodvibes

[stace208]

Love the flashback pictures Stacy! Your kiddos were so little :goodvibes

Ben's face in the picture in front of the hat is priceless - he looks totally fed up with the picture taking! :laughing:

Thanks Michelle! They were so little. Hard to believe how fast they grow!
You may very well be right about that picture of Ben. He still gets aggravated with me for taking so many pictures!

I agree completely! The picture of Ben made me LOL. :rotfl:

I guess I drank the Kool-Aid too, but you know what? I didn't even realize I drank it until after we were home from our first trip. It took a few weeks at home before I realized how much I loved it and how I couldn't wait to go back.

To answer your earlier questions-we have not been to Typhoon Lagoon. At this point I am toying with the idea of sending them to Aquatica instead. Mostly this is because it is free for us to get in there. My sister went to Aquatica last summer and loved it. Anyone have any advice? :confused3

I laughed too when I was finding pictures to upload. I asked him if he remembered why he was mad but he didn't.
You know, even though I knew before I left that I wanted to go back, it wasn't until our next trip in Jan. '08 that I really got to the point where I wanted to go every year or more!!

We're going to Aquatica this summer for the very reason you stated-it's FREE! I've only heard good things. I'll be able to let you know what I think once I am back!:thumbsup2

Why is my ticker gone again?? :confused3 I changed it when there were problems before...

Mine comes and goes sometimes. Maybe it will come back after a while.

Stacy, I completely understand about trying to keep a PTR and a TR going at the same time. I guess it's just one of the costs for us getting so lucky as to get to go to Disney on back-to-back trips ! :thumbsup2

I'm so glad you're trying 'Ohana breakfast. We really enjoy this one. Hope you all do to. AND, :yay: for a DIS meet with MeMom and Jill and those sweet girls!

Love the flashback pictures. If you and John drank the kool-aid on that trip, I think Ben must have had some too. His expression in each picture, just says, "I love this place!" :goodvibes

Yes, yes...I think there are worse things than having to keep up PTR/TR's for multiple trips!!:rotfl: I just don't want to get shut down like I did last summer.

I'm excited to try 'Ohana. I really wanted to go there but didn't think I could squeeze it in. I just decided to make room!:rolleyes:
I'm also excited for my DIS meet! I wish I could have more!!

I laughed about the comment about Ben. Yes, he definitely has drank the kool-aid and Ellie too. Gallons of it. They love it as much as me. John just rolls his eyes at us!:upsidedow

[stace208]

Happy Mother's Day!
Somewhere, somehow in all the hustle and bustle of life, I have gotten to 44 days!!:dance3::dance3:

I did manage to get the countdown calendar done and the kids have been using that this week. I need to take a picture and put it up. I also have done some shopping ( I know, you're shocked!:eek:).:rotfl: I will put those pictures up too. Today I am going to The Disney Store and spending some time with Ellie so I'll wait and post pictures after my purchases there...:rolleyes1

I have some flashback pictures to put up and then I want to put my final plans for park days and meals up. So many plans, so little time!!

I still have been unable to locate pictures of my first Disney trip. I found the album I *thought* they were in but they weren't there.:headache:
These pictures are from the kids' 2nd trip. We went January 5-12 in 2008. This trip was special and different for us because my best friend and her family went with us and my sister ended up coming for part of it. My friend, who is local, flew out with us. We all stayed at The Beach Club. My sister got a good deal on a 3 night Disney cruise. When she called to tell me about it, and I heard the dates, I told her she should come to Disney with us for a few days before the cruise. She checked it out and decided to do it. We didn't tell the kids so when we landed at MCO, she and my BIL surprised the kids. It was great! My kids love my BIL, Bobby. He's the classic jokester, fovever kid. Unfortunately, at age 50, he was struck with early Alzheimers. My sister's life changed quickly. He still knows everyone, for the most part, and can take care of himself but the disease is progressing quite rapidly.:sad2: My sister and I are very close so I was glad we were all able to have these memories together in the Happiest Place on Earth!
This was the first time for Ben and Ellie to fly!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/100_1167.jpg
Back then, you had to wait in a long line at ME. Ellie hung out with Uncle Bobby.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/100_1172.jpg
Never get tired of seeing this...
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/100_1182.jpg
Loved this place!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0880.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0784.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0877.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0449-1.jpg

con't...

[stace208]

Here are some more pictures from the trip. I won't post much commentary. If you see some cute, blonde kids in the pictures, those are my friend Linda's babies. We had a great time with them. We didn't stay together all the time but met up everyday for our meal. They couldn't keep up with my pace!:rotfl:

Oh, and Christmas stuff was still up. I was glad to see it but for me, it wasn't the same because "Christmas" time was over, ya know? That's why I am so excited to be going right after Christmas this year when it still feels like Christmas.

http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0274.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0244.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0231.jpg
Dumbo is for babies...
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0226.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0225.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0214.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/100_1249.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0249.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/100_1186.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/100_1220.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0318.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0468-1.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0585.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0724-1.jpg

It was a fantastic trip. We :love: The Beach Club and hope to get a villa there sometime in the summer.
This trip was also a turning point for us. While here, we decided that I would go back to teaching AND we would start going to Disney every year!:thumbsup2

[jenniferkeala808]

44 days?!?!?! it's going to go by soooo quickly! Thanks for sharing your pics! I didn't have a chance to explore the yacht and beach club but I'll be sure to do that on my to-do list for next trip!!

[stace208]

44 days?!?!?! it's going to go by soooo quickly! Thanks for sharing your pics! I didn't have a chance to explore the yacht and beach club but I'll be sure to do that on my to-do list for next trip!!

Hi Keala! Welcome back!
44 days makes me super excited. Plus, that means that the end of the school year is in there too!:thumbsup2

Beach club is so pretty. You won't regret making time to get over there and have a look!

[Happydog]

Yay!! Great updates! Can't wait to hear about the rest of your day, today, and I too am going to get my update in gear!!! Oh! Happy Mother's Day!!! :goodvibes:

[stace208]

Shopping is so much fun!! I've made some purchases recently for the trip.

First up are some Vera's.
I got a Saddle Up and a Villager in Mod Floral pink. I bought a Saddle Up in Cupcakes Pink a few weeks ago and love using it as my everyday purse. I had a sale code and free shipping code so I splurged and ordered these other two. Also got a Villager for my mil for Mother's Day. She loved it!

The Villager will be my "car" bag. With a 12 hour drive, I'll need many things to keep me occupied!
On the Spring Break trip I used a Cargo Sling in Mod Floral blue that I got off of ebay because that style is discontinued. I really liked it so I will use it again. But, I think I will also take the Saddle Up bags for lighter days in the parks/evenings.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/shopping/IMG_0497.jpg
Up next, shoes! I love shoes!! I have plantar fascitis in my left foot so I am always on the hunt for cute shoes that don't kill my feet. I am in :love: with Chaco sandals but they aren't what I'd call *cute*. I have always heard good things about Teva Mush and then heard about these Yellow Box. So, I ordered Ellie and myself a pair of Teva's on Amazon and then zipped over to a store with Yellow Box on sale this week and we each got a pair of those too. Yep, my girl is a shoe horse like her momma!:rolleyes1
These are both pairs of the Teva's and Ellie's Yellow Box.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/shopping/IMG_0496-1.jpg
These are my Yellow Box
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/shopping/IMG_0495-1.jpg
I've worn both pairs out and about shopping/to the mall and they've done great. Not sure they'd last for parks but definitely for limited times/DTD/ etc.

Today the plan was for Ellie and I to head out to lunch and to the mall that has a Disney Store (45 minutes away). John and Ben decided to go see Iron Man 2. After they left, when Ellie and I went to leave, I realized that my keys were in my purse....which was in the car....which WAS still here...but it was LOCKED!!:headache: For some reason, John tends to *accidentally* lock the car. I drive it all week and it never happens but on weekends it just mysteriously happens.:confused: Anywho, I called and the movie had already started so Ellie and I ended up just staying at home until they got back. Then we all went to lunch at Red Robin and jetted out to the mall. I had a great time but didn't get a chance to look at as much as I'd planned. It's ok though, still a fun day!:goodvibes
Here are my Disney purchases:
Cutest little cups. I got one for me, and one each for two of the girls who teach with me who love Disney too. They match the bag!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/shopping/IMG_0502.jpg
Two tanks for Ellie
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/shopping/IMG_0501-1.jpg
Shirts for me. If I keep it up, I'll only own Disney shirts. As it is, it's pretty much all I wear on the weekends! Oh well, makes me happy.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/shopping/IMG_0499-1.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/shopping/IMG_0498-1.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/shopping/IMG_0500.jpg
I was uber excited for that purple one because I'd seen one a few months ago with balloons but they didn't have my size nor have it online. Now I am glad because this one is even cuter!!

That's all the shopping for now. Soon will be countdown calendar, park days, and final ADR line up. Also, we might have a new ride to get there, I'll keep you posted!:goodvibes

[stace208]

Yay!! Great updates! Can't wait to hear about the rest of your day, today, and I too am going to get my update in gear!!! Oh! Happy Mother's Day!!! :goodvibes:

Thanks HD! I've had a great day with only 1 minor hiccup but it all got worked out!
Hope you've had a great day too!
Our trips are coming so quickly!
Thanks for thinking of us with the ADR's too!:goodvibes

[lmillercrew]

Love the shopping pics!

[MeMom]

http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/Disney%20Flashbacks/IMG_0226.jpg

Don't tell him this, but I think his little pouty face is just the cutest!!! :laughing:

Jill and I got those cups when we went to the Disney Store in Atlanta on Mary Poppins day. Haven't gotten to use mine yet, because I came home and started making preparations to go out of town. ;)

[Happydog]

JUST love THOSE SHIRTS!!! The Purple one is definitely my favorite :) cute cups too, great patterns. I love the pair of Yellow Box flip flops I bought for the cruise. I got some sparkly brown ones with a wedge. Love them!

Can't believe the trip is coming so close, either! WOW! It will be here before we know it. :thumbsup2

[stace208]

Love the shopping pics!

Thanks! I :lovestruc to shop!!

Don't tell him this, but I think his little pouty face is just the cutest!!! :laughing:

Jill and I got those cups when we went to the Disney Store in Atlanta on Mary Poppins day. Haven't gotten to use mine yet, because I came home and started making preparations to go out of town. ;)

It is a cute pouty face, isn't it? He's changed so much since then...not much pouting these days. Now it's a not so cute eye roll...:rolleyes:

I love that cup and so do my two friends. I wish I'd bought one more for myself. Maybe they'll still be there next time! Hope you've used yours now!

JUST love THOSE SHIRTS!!! The Purple one is definitely my favorite :) cute cups too, great patterns. I love the pair of Yellow Box flip flops I bought for the cruise. I got some sparkly brown ones with a wedge. Love them!

Can't believe the trip is coming so close, either! WOW! It will be here before we know it. :thumbsup2

Thanks on the shirts. I'm pleased with them!
Yellow box are my favorite flippies now! I saw the sparkly brown ones too-cute!!

[wigdoutdismom]

I'm on a spending freeze on flip flops....
just wondering now though...
comfort factor on the yellow box flip flops
how do they feel?

[stace208]

I'm on a spending freeze on flip flops....
just wondering now though...
comfort factor on the yellow box flip flops
how do they feel?

They are heavenly! Like walking on marshmallows. I've worn them on an all day mall/car lot/Wal-Mart shopping day and they felt great.:cloud9: I have trouble with my left foot (plantar fascisitis) and they didn't bother me at all.

Can I be in the enabling club now????:rotfl:

[stace208]

Whew! Another week has come and gone. I am slammed at school and will continue to be for the next couple of weeks. After state testing, things will slow down a little. At that point it becomes "crowd control" until June 18th. On one hand it seems so close and yet, a long way to go with 25 anxious, excited, and talkative 7-8 year olds!:upsidedow

I wanted to get in a quick update tonight.
First is our countdown calendar. We started with 50 days and are now down to 37!
Here's the whole thing.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0510.jpg
And a close-up.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0511-1.jpg

Each sticky note has a trivia question on the back. Ben and Ellie take turns taking off a sticky. That person gets first dibs at answering but if they don't know, the other (or me and John) can answer. Then they put a sticker on the Mickey head. They really like doing it and it is a visual reminder for all of us at how fast our trip is coming up!!

The other major event that happened here this week was a new car purchase!:yay: We'd been bouncing around the idea, went looking last weekend, and ended up falling in love with a Toyota Sienna. Didn't plan on getting a van, was opposed to it actually, but I really like this one more than the once we had before and there is SO much space in this thing.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0504-1.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0505-1.jpg
Captain's chairs for the kids.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0506-1.jpg
Lots of room up front too!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0507-1.jpg
Mega cargo space ready for our drives to Disney.:goodvibes
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0508-1.jpg
I, of course, Disneyfied her right away!
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/stace208/IMG_0509-1.jpg

In unfortunate news, our air conditioning broke yesterday.:sad2: We had family over for dinner and had been cooking/baking so I thought that was why the house was hot. After everyone left I looked at the thermostat and it was 81!:eek: AC wasn't on and John checked and the line had ice on it. Called the repair guy who said he couldn't do anything with ice on the line so he would come today. He did come and recharged the system so it would cool the house for the time being but it looks like we will have to get a whole new system. That was an expense we weren't counting on!:headache:
Good thing we got the car before this!:rolleyes:

[MeMom]

Nice new car!

Sorry about the AC. Mine has held on several years longer than I thought it would have, so whenever it does give it up, I won't be able to complain.

We're already in crowd control mode. Every day at least one of the kids wants to know if it is the last day of school. I am tempted to just tell them yes - one by one until nobody is left. ;)

[SoonerGirl]

Wow, June 18?! We just have 7 more days, I'm sure we probably started before you though.

Congrats on the new car! I've got a bit of new car fever myself, but I'm trying hard to refrain, it's so nice not having a car payment.....

That stinks about your a/c system, we had to use our tax return to replace ours :sad2:

[Happydog]

I'm on a spending freeze on flip flops....
just wondering now though...
comfort factor on the yellow box flip flops
how do they feel?

WigD, I wore mine at Castaway Cay and they were just perfect... JUST sayin'
:rolleyes1 NOT that you are going there anytime soon...

[Happydog]

What a cute countdown calendar! I love your mickey heads, very cute! AND nice new car! AND so sorry about the AC -- rats!

Think happy thoughts! ;)

[stace208]

Nice new car!

Sorry about the AC. Mine has held on several years longer than I thought it would have, so whenever it does give it up, I won't be able to complain.

We're already in crowd control mode. Every day at least one of the kids wants to know if it is the last day of school. I am tempted to just tell them yes - one by one until nobody is left. ;)


Thanks on the new car! We are loving it!
The a/c is causing some angst but we'll muddle through!
Too funny about school! You must be really close to the end now. We made a countdown chain and they are enjoying taking a link off each day. I am enjoying how it's getting shorter!!

[stace208]

Wow, June 18?! We just have 7 more days, I'm sure we probably started before you though.

Congrats on the new car! I've got a bit of new car fever myself, but I'm trying hard to refrain, it's so nice not having a car payment.....

That stinks about your a/c system, we had to use our tax return to replace ours :sad2:

Yes, I am sure that we started after you...we started on Sept. 7th this year. I keep telling myself this as so many here on the DIS are getting out. Come August I will still be at the beach while you guys are going back to school. It's so hard though here at the end when we're so tired!

We went for years without a car payment and then had to get a new one when John's car died. This time we paid one off and got this one so it's not a huge shock to the system!

The a/c stuff is a bummer, and something we weren't counting on. But, that's life, isn't it??

[stace208]

WigD, I wore mine at Castaway Cay and they were just perfect... JUST sayin'
:rolleyes1 NOT that you are going there anytime soon...

What a cute countdown calendar! I love your mickey heads, very cute! AND nice new car! AND so sorry about the AC -- rats!

Think happy thoughts! ;)

Yep, WigD needs to unfreeze the spending on the flippies....;)

Thanks on the countdown calendar! The kids are having a blast with it. Those Mickeys are just peeled off Home Depot paint thingies...:rolleyes1
The new car is fun. Definitely an upgrade for us and the nicest car I've ever owned!
Rats is right on the a/c.:sad2: Between that, stress at school, and some other stuff I've been focusing on my trip in 34 days!!!

[stace208]

30 days!! 30 days!!:dance3::banana::banana::dance3:

I am so excited...and actually starting to realize that I have bunches to do and not that much time. Only 4 more weekends before we leave and 1 of those we are going to be out of town and one is Ellie's dance recital. Plus I was thinking of letting the kids have an end of year pool party...that is still in the thought process and may get thrown out the window...we'll see!

Trip news...well, it involves a blunder...on my part.:eek:
Seems as though, when we decided on dates for this trip and booked it (waaaaaaaay back in October), we planned our leaving day for July 2nd. Well, in fuzzy Disney planning-that's related to fuzzy Disney math-I got the 2nd stuck in my head as our LAST day, not our LEAVING day. Made ADR's...made plans.
Well, last night, I was on the DVC member site looking at points for Christmas and next year and spotted the error. Yikes! I flipped out.:scared1: It's totally my fault but the thought of giving up that day. I fessed up to John and we discussed our options:
1. Cancel the ADR and head out, as originally planned (BOO!)
2. Book a night at POP and leave 7/3
3. Keep the ADR and head out a little later that day and either drive through or stop somewhere and finish the trip home on the 3rd.

I, of course, was hoping for option 2 but given that it was my Disney hungry brain that did this was willing to compromise. John really doesn't want to drive on the 3rd as he's worried about holiday traffic but he's willing to go with Option 3 as long as we can get most of the trip behind us on the 2nd. So, we'll keep our ADR for 9:30 and head out sometime late morning/early afternoon. I think we'll be able to push it and get home that night but we'll see how it goes.

One way this helps actually is that I have family coming into town on the 2nd. They were going to stay here without us but now we'll be home sooner and get to spend more time with them which I am excited about. In the end, I guess it all works out!! I still can't believe I got twisted up like that...John isn't surprised at all!:laughing:

Here are our final plans...as of right now anyways! I am still trying to get him to leave on the 22nd and stop but now that we might have the stop on the way back don't know if it's going to work!

Wed. June 23rd: Leave approx. 3 a.m.
Stop at Wal-Mart and grab groceries
Check in at OKW
Head to DTD for dinner

Thurs. June 24th
Magic Kingdom
Lunch ADR at Plaza @11:05

Friday June 25th
Epcot
Lunch ADR at Rose & Crown @ 1:00

Saturday June 26th
DHS
Lunch at Pizza Planet (a promise to Ellie)
Dinner ADR at 50's PTC @ 5:15

Sunday June 27th
AK
Brunch ADR at Donald's @10:25

Monday June 28th
Sea World
Wal-Mart stop if needed
dinner somewhere-off site or DTD

Tuesday June 29th
Aquatica (waterpark)
ADR at Boma @ 5:00

Wednesday June 30th
MK
ADR for breakfast at CRT @ 8:05
Ben-Pirates's league appt. @ 11:00
Pirates and Pals fireworks cruise @8:00

Thursday July 1st
Brunch ADR at Ohana @ 10:20
Resort time/DIS meet/packing
Dinner ADR at Olivia's @ 5:05

Friday July 2nd
Breakfast ADR at 1900 PF @ 9:30
Leaving for home :sad1:

These are just skeleton plans and only reflect the park we will be at for rope drop. I'm sure there will be lots of swim time in the afternoons and evening park hops. I also hope to get in some resort hopping-maybe on our Sea World/Aquatica days.
As of right now, Fantasmic! is showing on Thurs. 6/24, Sun. 6/27, and Tues. 6/29. We'll probably go on 6/27 as that's our AK day and the park closes at 6. We can spend a full day here, let the kids swim and grab a bite at Good's and head to DHS for the show. It will be crowded, I know, and we may not get perfect seats but I will be excited just to see it. I'm hoping they add in some extra shows. The kids are old enough now to do the later ones.

Off to get ready for school tomorrow and hopefully a TR post up too!

[SoonerGirl]

Woo Hoo for 30 days! :banana::banana::banana:

I think the solution you came up with to your dilemma will work out just fine. It'll be fun to get one more character breakfast in to end your trip! :thumbsup2

[wdwgirl03]

Oh my, how did I not know you had a PTR?! OOPS! Here now!

[Happydog]

Hey! I just saw your update, I gotta head out but I will be back to read your itinerary, okay?! :thumbsup2 Trips are coming up fast aren't they??!!!