An Invasion of a "STRANGER" Kind.... NEW THREAD IS UP!! Go Thee NOW!

[All7OfUs]

Welcome one and all to the continuation of the planning excitement of the “Belle Battalion”! Yep, thanks to Great Biscuit, this enthusiastic 3-Woman Army has a new name! You can call us the B2 Bomber Squadron- because this trip will be THE BOMB!!!

For those of you who are just joining the ranks for the first time, we give you a special :welcome:WELCOME!!! :welcome:Don’t be shy! Initiation isn’t too difficult, just join in by posting a salute and saying howdy. Seriously, lurkers can expect the brig. There’s plenty of fun and games for everyone! For all those who‘ve found a home here already- KEEP IT COMING!! :banana::banana::banana:As always, the command post is open and friendly. Let this be the figurative “Officer’s Club” during the months that follow, as we continue to plot our course, and make our plans. Together we can press on and make this a great place to be!

I think a brief explanation of our title might be helpful. It all began a long time ago- a year ago, in fact, when Soldier #1- that’s me, Liesa- had the idea of forming a tactical unit made up of ladies who are eager to tackle a singular goal:

Simply stated, we plan to conquer and dominate any of life’s obstacles that might stand in the way of our highest victory- Our 8-day luxury vacation at WDW! This ladies’ trip will be a trip to match no other; A Quest for a Week of Freedom; An Invasion of the Disney Kind , so to speak!! And it will all be during one week in September with~~~



Strangers!!!!



Huh?!! Yes, Sirs and Madams, you heard that right! Two of us have never met, and the other 2 of us have only met once. I know that sounds confusing and it is. But rest assured, over the next few weeks we will explain again, how we “met” and decided to do battle together. Many of you may not even know WHO we are, and that will come very soon! But here’s a sneak peek:

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/Pre-Trip%20Report%20Pix/miscfromcamera145-1-1-1.jpg

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/Pre-Trip%20Report%20Pix/LeeAnn.jpg

(he's not going)

So, what else can you expect over the coming 7 months?? Lots of de-classification of secret plans- from looting the Fields of Victory (souvenirs) to our, as of yet, super-secret Detailed Battle Plans. We’ll also throw in some Battalion Headquarters camouflaging (window decorations), field uniforms, medals of honor that we collect along the way (our bling), and regular updates concerning the all-important Battle of the ADR, as well as the all-consuming quest to transport the troops safely and efficiently to the front lines.

Of course, there are always the everyday battles that we all fight regularly, so there will be fair amount of sharing our joys and struggles, funny moments and defeats, and that’s what makes it worth coming back.
I hereby pledge (my goodness, I sound like I’m campaigning for office, rather than leading a campaign of fighting for a vacation!) to try my best to keep on top of links in the TOC, and make it easy to read. I also promise to respond to every post- that’s what makes the DISBoard Kingdom fun!
If you are still feeling like you need to read all the war room documents released up to now, you can read them all

HERE (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2166702)

Everything is clearly indexed in a tidy little Table of Contents for you. There you can find the very important Constitution Documents, our Tenets of Touring, our Mess Hall choices, the Big Fat WHY we’re doing this, and much, much more.

Next up: Let's Get To Know the Belle Battalion Better- Meet Soldier #1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35251993&postcount=13)

[All7OfUs]

Let's Meet Soldier #1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35249885&postcount=1)
Campaign Timing (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35267353&postcount=78)
From Strangers to Friends (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35293068&postcount=151)
Another Ranking Upgrade- The Belle Battalion Colonels (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35319772&postcount=208)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 1, Mr. Potato Head (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35336019&postcount=258)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 2, Pressed Pennies (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35357970&postcount=322)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 3, Mexican Treasures (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35375641&postcount=369)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 4, Norwegian Knick-Knacks (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35403198&postcount=407)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 5, Peking Picks (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35414383&postcount=432)
Meet Soldier #2 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35447355&postcount=482)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 6, A German Gem for Me (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35449063&postcount=486)
The Big News You've All Been Waiting For! Pt. 1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35464370&postcount=503)
THE Big New You've All Been Waiting For- Pt. II (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35468189&postcount=517)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 7, Masquerade Anyone? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35479694&postcount=538)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 8, Stumped in the Good 'Ol USofA (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35512341&postcount=582)
Soldier #1 Pulls the Trigger on Troop Transport (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35526922&postcount=598)
Soldier #1 Pulls the Trigger on Troop Transport, Pt. II (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35536613&postcount=625)
A Review of the Enemies of Soldier #1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35552557&postcount=672)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 9, Pick a Pearl Perk (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35568279&postcount=706)
Preliminary D.C. Meet Planning (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35605609&postcount=829)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 10, Al Salaam Alaykum, Souvies! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35618490&postcount=844)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 11, Responde', Souvie Plait! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35642171&postcount=875)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 12, Steeped in Souvies! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35655878&postcount=899)
A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 13, A Canadian Quadery (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35661586&postcount=917)
Armor Up for ADR Combat!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35686549&postcount=982)
Captains Forever?! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35700082&postcount=1022)
ADR Combat- Round #1, Hollywood Brown Derby (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35713774&postcount=1061)
ADR Combat- Round 1, The Answer (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35725340&postcount=1096)
ADR Combat- Round #2, Rose & Crown (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35749825&postcount=1123)
ADR Combat Update- The Battle is Over, But the Game is Just Beginning (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35755142&postcount=1165)
ADR Combat- Round #2, The Answer (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35766104&postcount=1177)
ADR Combat- Round #3, Trails End (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35767025&postcount=1192)
ADR Combat- Round #3, The Answer (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35782234&postcount=1234)
ADR Combat- Round 4, 'Ohana (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35782352&postcount=1239)
ADR Combat- Round #4, The Answer (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35796372&postcount=1275)
ADR Combat- Round #5- Sanaa & Cali Grill (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35800407&postcount=1291)
ADR Combat- Round #5, The Answer(s) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35810082&postcount=1326)

Table of Contents Part 2 in Post #2 (right below!!)

[MKBekka]

Rebekah has graciously given me permission to use this space for the 2nd TOC!! THANKS, BEK!!


And the German DISMeet is....???? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35825277&postcount=1343)
ADR Combat- Let's Shake Things Up a Bit!! Phase II (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35832935&postcount=1361)
You Know You've Been Here Too Long When/ ADR Combat Clues #2 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35847831&postcount=1381)
I DID IT! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35848318&postcount=1390)
A Poignant Look Back/ ADR Combat Clue #3 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35876880&postcount=1424)
A Quick Howdy from Tate/ ADR Combat Clues #4 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35903898&postcount=1492)
A Spring Celebration to Remember- Pt. 1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35927243&postcount=1529)
A Spring Celebration to Remember- Pt. 2 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35927243&postcount=1530)
ADR Combat Clues #5 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35942947&postcount=1560)
Training Grounds & Mind Games/ ADR Combat Clues #6 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35974115&postcount=1597)
The Last Set of ADR Combat Clues (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35988528&postcount=1645)
ADR Combat Clues ALL In One Place- Time to Guess!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36002482&postcount=1659)
The Battle Belongs To....??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36070601&postcount=1761)
The Plans of Attack- Day 1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36041189&postcount=1708)
The Plan of Attack- Day 2 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36088054&postcount=1817)
A Super, Duper, Megalooper Update: Ranking Upgrade/ Our Easter Day/ Joseph Update (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36115707&postcount=1860)
The Plan of Attack- Day 3 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36131216&postcount=1890)
The Plan of Attack- Day 4 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36164104&postcount=1975)
Week O' Freedom Paid in Full (Almost)!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36194590&postcount=2014)
Mickey's SCARY, SCARY, NON-Party! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36217852&postcount=2053)
The Plan of Attack- Day 5 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36219869&postcount=2074)
A Quick Little Poll For You (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36248187&postcount=2104)
The Plan of Attack- Day 6 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36248775&postcount=2118)
A BRAND NEW GAME- COME Play!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36294245&postcount=2232)
The Plan of Attack- Day 7 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36317168&postcount=2295)
More DC Meet Info... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36332327&postcount=2323)
The Plan of Attack- Day 8 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36347044&postcount=2350)
The Plan of Attack- Day 9 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36377687&postcount=2482)
An Ode to Indoor Plumbing and The Plan of Attack- Day 10 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36393384&postcount=2517)
The Plan of Attack- Day 11 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36410977&postcount=2550)
The Plan of Attack- Day 12 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36440765&postcount=2614)
The Entire Plan of Attack- ALL in One Place! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36457602&postcount=2657)
A Peek Inside Minnie- Pt. 1, Magic Kingdom Capers (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36503397&postcount=2727)
3 Months and Some Spare Change! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36507152&postcount=2734)
Livin' for La Nouba! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36507327&postcount=2735)

LINK to Table of Contents/Links- Pt. 3 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=36518787&postcount=2758)

Yippee! I'm the first poster!!! :) We're gonna have fun!

[MAGICFOR2]

Story of my life - always running a close second! :goodvibes I think I checked in to part I then lost you - and I know I read your "Life in Asia" report. Thanks for the reminder to come back! I'm looking forward to how your plans come together, just might not post real often - I'm having a hard time keeping up!;)

[All7OfUs]

Yippee! I'm the first poster!!! :) We're gonna have fun!

Hello, Daughter of Mine! You were only first because you were sitting right beside me! :rolleyes1 Glad you're part of my fun! :goodvibes

Story of my life - always running a close second! :goodvibes I think I checked in to part I then lost you - and I know I read your "Life in Asia" report. Thanks for the reminder to come back! I'm looking forward to how your plans come together, just might not post real often - I'm having a hard time keeping up!;)

You'd have been first for sure, if Bek wasn't sitting right here and helping me edit! ;)

I remember you did post a few times on Pt. 1, and I wondered where you went off to. :confused3 Don't let the speed scare you off!! Mostly it's just me babbling about miso soup, dreaming of Lapus out loud or chattering about how flippin' cold it is here! :lmao:

[Millie12591]

I'm here!!! Yippeeeeeeee! I made the first page!!!
Things were waaaay to quiet tonight, so I had to come and see if you had made your new page. You sure did! Hee hee.
I have a couple of homeschool questions for you.

OOPS! Forgot my salute! SALUTE!

[All7OfUs]

I'm here!!! Yippeeeeeeee! I made the first page!!!
Things were waaaay to quiet tonight, so I had to come and see if you had made your new page. You sure did! Hee hee.
I have a couple of homeschool questions for you.

OOPS! Forgot my salute! SALUTE!

A GREAT BIG SALUTE BACK AT YA!!

Hip-Hip-Hooray! Camille is here!! :dance3:

Let the party roll!

Yeah, check it out! Only you, Tammie, and Bek have posted, but there's a boatload of views. I suspect there's a whole lot of lurking goin' on. (Shame on YOU!! ;))

Maybe I can call you tonight. We can have another chat. ;)

[that's nice]

Liesa I found ya!

Just dropping in before I go freeze outside all day!

I must say that I'm kinda sad your Strangers I is over though.:sad2:

That's a great pic of you and Maroo. I don't think I've seen it before.:confused3

[shannn]

Reporting for duty, and on page 1 too!! Just preparing for a school day with a 2 hour delay. 9:45 is a much more civilized time to start school than 7:45, huh?


Oh yeah, Salute & Howdy! :)

[glennbo123]

Reporting for duty! (and looking forward to the fun.) :banana:

[carissanboys]

Will I make the first page??? :yay:

[All7OfUs]

Liesa I found ya!

Just dropping in before I go freeze outside all day!

I must say that I'm kinda sad your Strangers I is over though.:sad2:

That's a great pic of you and Maroo. I don't think I've seen it before.:confused3

OUTSIDE??!! Why on earth for? No one deserves that kind of punishment! (Did Mel kick you out?? Forget her birthday??)

SAD?? No way!! This is going to be great! :woohoo:

That was taken during our Nashville Meet. The one with Tinkgurl and punkin413 and VandyFan (I think, is that right, Dawn?) We had a blast! I have no doubt we'll be great touring partners. :thumbsup2

Reporting for duty, and on page 1 too!! Just preparing for a school day with a 2 hour delay. 9:45 is a much more civilized time to start school than 7:45, huh?


Oh yeah, Salute & Howdy! :)

Roll call is moving forward!

Heck yeah! What are they thinking starting at 7:45? I guess folks want to get home before 8:00 at night. :confused3 Totally wouldn't work for me! In fact, I'm so bad, I scheduled ALL my univ. classes for 10:00 or later. Didn't work though, for student teaching. Guess that's why I don't work?!! :lmao::lmao::lmao:

Reporting for duty! (and looking forward to the fun.) :banana:

Hey There!! You're a good soldier- ready for all kinds of looniness!

Will I make the first page??? :yay:

YOU DID! YOU DID!! You can be the resident expert on all things military. (Since even though, I make it sound like I know what I"m talking about- I don't!! :rotfl2:)

[All7OfUs]

So let's march forward and start the introductions!

I'll start, since I'm here and raring to go.

How do I make this fun and interesting for those who already know me?? Oh, I know, add some new pictures that they haven't seen yet!

So, here, in full color is me (and my family- most of them anyway):

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/Buren_Family_.jpg

My oldest son is finishing up his senior year in "the big city", and I miss him a lot.

Here's another shot with him in it, but it's a couple years old. (See how much damage 2 years can do??)

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/DSCN1668.jpg

I'd love to look like this:

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/DSCN2966.jpg

but sadly, "Arm Flab" (who will also make regular appearances in this tale) has taken a firm (or not) hold on this 4---- something year old body.

Instead,

my name is Liesa, and I am a SAHM. That has always sounded vulgar to me, but I've gotten past it. We homeschool the 4 cutie patooties that are still at home, and among other things I:

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/miscfromcamera128.jpg

Besides quilting, I love to cook, so you'll probably find some food posted here (with recipes), and visit the locals (more on that later), relax with a Jane Austen movie and a glass of wine, play Scrabble, and dream Disney dreams.

This is where I live:

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/camelsunderpowerline.jpg

Yeah, nice, huh? :sad2: I'm moving in August back to the land of spit free sidewalks, green trees, and grocery stores. :banana:

How 'bout another shot?

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/fullfrontmausoleum.jpg

Here's the deal. I live overseas in "Blankastan". I can't say exactly where, but I"m sure the more astute of you can figure it out by deduction over time. If you do, please don't name it here. By the time this PTR is over, I can tell all. For now, just know I"m on the Silk Road somewhere, eager to return. Meantime, we have some Good work to do. ;)

So, now you know who I am, and where I live, and what I do, so how about some "where I long to be""? Afterall this is why we come here at all, right??

Here ya go:

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/DSCN2879.jpg]

No, my son is not on mega doses of speed! That's just the cheesy smile that most 10 year old boys make. He is my LD son who has a hard time "getting it" sometimes.

Yes Siree! I long to be whirling away on a Magical Carousel that can in a moment's time, whisk me away to Fantastical thoughts, where I'm a princess living in a beautiful castle, and where golden eggs are laid every morning. What does the Magic Kingdom inspire in you?? When you step into EPCOT, which pavilion beckons you most??

This guy will certainly make several guest appearances along the way. He is my friend "Tranvestite Potato Head". Somedays (s)he's all girly-girl and sometimes not. You just never know. :confused3 Potato Heads these days! :sad2:

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/MrPotatoHeadgoesonaJourney.jpg

So, that's it in a nutshell. I'm a Disney freak since way early on, but have unfortunately lived far too far away to make regular trips. Hopefully, someday that will all change, but the meantime, I soldier on with all of YOU!!

Next Up, Click Here for: Campaign Timing! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35267353&postcount=78)

[If U Had Wings]

I'm here! Don't want to miss the rest of all the plans!

[All7OfUs]

I'm here! Don't want to miss the rest of all the plans!

Hey, Crissy- One of the gang has reported for duty!! Welcome back!

I think the intro for maroo will have to wait a spell; she is pretty darn sick with something that sounds awful!!

[jenbear123]

Let the show begin! :woohoo:

[All7OfUs]

Let the show begin! :woohoo:

AMEN, Sista!! :cheer2:

I looked for a nun smilie, but no dice. Think Whoopi here!

[winkers]

:banana::dance3::yay::yay::banana:popcorn::popcorn ::

[*Seanaci*]

Ok. I'm in! I have to have a place to go for my daily dose of laughter while Jordan and Winkers and Rosie and gang are all gone. :D Sounds like it'll be a fun trip. But looks like I have quite a bit of reading to do first. :D

[All7OfUs]

:banana::dance3::yay::yay::banana:popcorn::popcorn ::

ahhh... we're not excited are we??

HECK YEAH!!! :dance3:

Ok. I'm in! I have to have a place to go for my daily dose of laughter while Jordan and Winkers and Rosie and gang are all gone. :D Sounds like it'll be a fun trip. But looks like I have quite a bit of reading to do first. :D


Welcome, Welcome!! Yeah, hopefully this can be party central while they're gone. :banana:

There's some really fun stuff in the first thread, but I did a nice recap towards the end of that one, that will pretty much fill you in. I'll also be doing a bunch of stuff in the next few days here, so everyone can get up to speed. I think we'll pick up some new readers here at the get go!! So glad you're not shy and ready to dive right in!

READY, SET, GO!!

[Connie96]

Hi Liesa,
I have dutifully followed you on over here. All subbed up and ready for more.

Have a great day! (Or night, as the case may be.) :)

[All7OfUs]

Hi Liesa,
I have dutifully followed you on over here. All subbed up and ready for more.

Have a great day! (Or night, as the case may be.) :)

Night. Definitely night. But the night is still young. It's only 10:30, the kids are safely strapped to their beds (not really), and I have several unfettered hours of DIS luxury ahead of me!!

[jordanyosh]

okay I'm here, but gotta go.....

[All7OfUs]

okay I'm here, but gotta go.....

I'm not sure quite how to take that.

[MainStMandy]

Lol loving your PTR!!! I'm definitely IN!!

[All7OfUs]

Lol loving your PTR!!! I'm definitely IN!!
Here's a great big, friendly :welcome: for you!! We are off to a rousing start!! Stick around, and I'm sure you'll get heavy doses of hilarity. And don't let that fancy schmancy military talk bog you down. Only the main updates are like that. Mostly it's just a bunch of trouble makers having fun. :dance3::dance3:

[Connie96]

Night. Definitely night. But the night is still young. It's only 10:30, the kids are safely strapped to their beds (not really), and I have several unfettered hours of DIS luxury ahead of me!!

So, you are exactly 12 hours ahead of me. That oughta be easy enough to remember! :)

[All7OfUs]

So, you are exactly 12 hours ahead of me. That oughta be easy enough to remember! :)

Easy-peasy! When you're eating dinner I"m snoozing. When I'm eating breakfast, you're heading to bed. :teacher:

[Connie96]

Easy-peasy! When you're eating dinner I"m snoozing. When I'm eating breakfast, you're heading to bed. :teacher:

LOL! I love that you define the time of day by eating and sleeping!! It's good to know it's not just me. :lmao:

[eandesmom]

Page 2 I knew it!

That's what happens when I go on a girls night out, head to bed right after and then check my own thread first in the am!

But I'm here!

[All7OfUs]

LOL! I love that you define the time of day by eating and sleeping!! It's good to know it's not just me. :lmao:

Is there anything else?? :lmao::lmao::lmao:

Page 2 I knew it!

That's what happens when I go on a girls night out, head to bed right after and then check my own thread first in the am!

But I'm here!

I knew you'd be along shortly! I'm not worried AT ALL. By the way, did you see my comment on your paper page?? I hope I registered enough to capture my comment. :confused3 LOVE the newest one- the reds and golds. :thumbsup2

Girls night out?? What'd ya do?? I was sitting here with my glass of vino thinking about you. Did I tell you my (hopefully) new house has a hot tub?? Are you thinking what I"m thinking?? ;)

[jenb1023]

Hey - I thought someone was going to fetch me so I didn't get lost! :sad1:
Great start so far! :thumbsup2

[All7OfUs]

I"m still making the rounds. I posted something on Glenn's and was still doing some posting over on the TR side of things, so don't worry! I totally wouldn't forget you!! I just saw that you moved back "home" and are feeling more settled in. That's great! I think it was a good move!:thumbsup2

[eandesmom]

Is there anything else?? :lmao::lmao::lmao:


I knew you'd be along shortly! I'm not worried AT ALL. By the way, did you see my comment on your paper page?? I hope I registered enough to capture my comment. :confused3 LOVE the newest one- the reds and golds. :thumbsup2

Girls night out?? What'd ya do?? I was sitting here with my glass of vino thinking about you. Did I tell you my (hopefully) new house has a hot tub?? Are you thinking what I"m thinking?? ;)

We went out for a girlfriends birthday to a Puerto Rican restaurant that was new to most of us. It was SOOOO good! I had the most amazing entree!

PASTELON
(cooked fresh; takes about 15 minutes, but well worth the wait)
Puerto Rican style lasagna with layers of sweet plantains, mozzarella cheese filled with you choice of either: tofu veggie mix (vegetarian) $14.99
all natural, seasoned ground beef $14.99
or pernil (pulled pork) special! A La Isla Favorite! $15.99

I had it with the pulled pork. The birthday girl and I both ordered it. And gloated. The perfect combination of sweet and savory, it was truly unbelievable.

And I had one of these...

Don Q Stormy...$7.50
don q gold rum, muddled ginger, bitters and soda alternately: "DARK & STORMY", with goslings black seal

I went "Dark and Stormy"

yowza!

It was a really really fun night. I have to take Jeff there, it was just a great find!

I just saw your comment, thank you! I love the sunflowers, very happy with them. I do need to add the "personalization" aspect to them but just wasn't feeling it yesterday. Of course I opened my email this am and had a request for an interview. Messing with my head! I can't NOT go and it is an intriguing position, very very different in many ways from what I've done, but oh I'm having so much fun!

I'm thinking....

ROAD TRIP!

:rotfl:

[All7OfUs]

That sounds divine. Was cracking up at the "DONKEY Stormy!! :lmao::lmao: That's what I read at first. Sheesh!! :rotfl2:


Guess what I just loaded up on??!!


I had crockpotted some beef and pork (leftovers of both) with some homemade enchilada sauce and it is the most delish stuff EVER! It's destined for some homemade tamales tomorrow, but I couldn't wait! I loaded up a piece of fresh clay-oven baked bread (the local stuff that's (for real) cooked over a dung fire) and noshed!! My arm flab loves me!

Paired with the Merlot I broke open, it's sitting mighty fine. Mighty fine! :cloud9:

An interview!!! Away from me Satan! Seriously. Are you even thinking about it??!! :scared1:

[eandesmom]

That sounds divine. Was cracking up at the "DONKEY Stormy!! :lmao::lmao: That's what I read at first. Sheesh!! :rotfl2:


Guess what I just loaded up on??!!


I had crockpotted some beef and pork (leftovers of both) with some homemade enchilada sauce and it is the most delish stuff EVER! It's destined for some homemade tamales tomorrow, but I couldn't wait! I loaded up a piece of fresh clay-oven baked bread (the local stuff that's (for real) cooked over a dung fire) and noshed!! My arm flab loves me!

Paired with the Merlot I broke open, it's sitting mighty fine. Mighty fine! :cloud9:

An interview!!! Away from me Satan! Seriously. Are you even thinking about it??!! :scared1:

Oh YUM! Homemade enchilada sauce is so much better. We go through gallons of the stuff and I'm too lazy most of the time which is kind of silly as it's not like it is hard. That sounds delish.

Oh I will go on the interview, it's an intriguing company and position (though I'm overqualified) but the idea of full time for someone else doesn't sit particularity well right now. Of course financial security does....then again, they'd have to offer me the job!

Kind of funny though, it was a random ad I responded to, I was trying to be a bit more "out of the box" in the stuff I was going after so looking at new industries etc and I remember thinking it kind of sounded like the stuff my friends husband does. He actually is one of the owners. Turns out, it is his company.

:rotfl:

But I'm sure he has no idea I applied, this wouldn't fall under him at this point. Still it's funny. And a little weird. Not sure how I feel about it other than knowing the company is very solid and run by good people. It would be weird though. Not sure how he/she would feel about it though I'm sure it would be fine. It is interesting stuff.

[All7OfUs]

OOoohh, that is weird stuff! You actually KNOW people there. I can totally relate to the financial security (ie, bennies/ health ins.), but you've already put your heart and soul into the other. I would be so torn!

I will be very interested indeed to see how this turns out! ::yes::

[eandesmom]

OOoohh, that is weird stuff! You actually KNOW people there. I can totally relate to the financial security (ie, bennies/ health ins.), but you've already put your heart and soul into the other. I would be so torn!

I will be very interested indeed to see how this turns out! ::yes::

Well the funny thing is I don't need the bennies thanks to Jeff's job, I just need an income. I don't think it means I can't do the other but it wouldn't be as focal. On the flip side if I did get a "real" job, it could finance me getting this started to the point where it did earn enough for me to do it full time. It would have to pay enough to cover childcare plus which is a juggle I'm not looking forward to dealing with again. If it was part time, it'd be ideal.

I'm honestly surprised they asked for an interview, I have a lot of the qualifications and in many ways am overqualified but it is SUCH a different industry that I'd have thought that would disqualify me right away. It does appeal to the dork side of me though (forensic engineering) as a very intriguing marketing and business development challenge.

We will see.

[All7OfUs]

Well, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It's been a fun evening once again!! I need to go snuggle up with my little girl and get some snooze! Does anyone else cuddle up with the kiddos (the younger ones, I mean) when their hubbies are away?? Kinda a nice change. :lovestruc

Hope we see lots of new folks around by the time I get up!! Night all.

[jenb1023]

Night! You need a link in your signature for your new thread.

[All7OfUs]

Night! You need a link in your signature for your new thread.

Oh!! You're totally right!! I almost forgot!! I need to hit up Cynthia and see if she'll do one for me!

[eandesmom]

Oh!! You're totally right!! I almost forgot!! I need to hit up Cynthia and see if she'll do one for me!
Of course she will :goodvibes

[Native NYer]

Saw your ptr link on a certain other ptr and thought I'd come over :)

[All7OfUs]

Of course she will :goodvibes

Gawrsh, these DISBoards just give me the warm fuzzies!! :lovestruc:cloud9::goodvibes

Saw your ptr link on a certain other ptr and thought I'd come over :)

Hi Jennifer!! I've seen all around too. So great that you've come on over!! We'll try really hard to not scare you off. Nooo, totally just kidding! Hopefully, I'll have another something to share in the next day or so. Meantime, we like to yak it up and have fun!! :rotfl:

I just looked at your ticker... You lucky ducky! You get two trips right on top of each other!! SweeT!

[disneyaddicted]

Are you kidding me? Page 3 already? Well at least I'm able to be in from sort of the "get go" Thanks for the link, I will gladly join in the ranks, although my time for battle does not come until a couple weeks after yours, I will pick up where you ladies leave off.

[eliz991]

Hi! I could never catch up with the first one, but I'm here at the beginning and willing to give it the old college try this time! (And I went to Texas A&M, so the military stuff shouldn't be too hard to sift through!)

[Sleepingbooty]

I'm here, I'm here! Like the new name - who's was that? I don't remember it.

[KathyRN137]

Hey, Strangers! :wave:


Kathy

[jkCT]

I'm here to lurk along with the new thread! :wave2:

[Diamondintheruff]

I've never been to the brig and don't want to so I'm de-lurking.

[VroomVroomLightning]

I am the same as diamonintheruff and eliz991! I was a lurker on the other thread and caught up when I could! But I am here now and ready to go! I looked though and could not find exact dates..What exact days will this week of freedom be happening? I wil be there in September too :banana: I told my Mom about this and she loves your story! Can't wait to hear more!

[tinkgurl]

I'm here! :banana:

[englishrose47]

I'm herre Liessa will catch up later

[Minnie&Nana]

I'll be along for the fun too!

[reelmom]

Wow! You have been busy for the last 24 hours. You are already on page 4. Life has been crazy but hopefully I will be able to get back on here pretty regularly. Can't wait to continue the fun. Oh, guess what? DH just booked us a trip to POR! We are going June 4-10. We have never stayed there, only stayed onsite one other time because it is so darn expensive. DH got a pincode about 3 months ago and just now decided to use it. I am so excited!

[vamassey1]

I followed you over from Jordan's PTR. Looking forward to the fun.

[All7OfUs]

Are you kidding me? Page 3 already? Well at least I'm able to be in from sort of the "get go" Thanks for the link, I will gladly join in the ranks, although my time for battle does not come until a couple weeks after yours, I will pick up where you ladies leave off.



She's here, She's here!! :yay: We make it look busy, but see, it's mostly a bunch of howdys. (Well, Cynthia and I had a little pow-wow, too! :hyper2:
:rolleyes1) Only just a little bit if real stuff so far!

I noticed that. There are a bunch of soldiers going later that us. I see a tons of threads for the last part of Sept.

Hi! I could never catch up with the first one, but I'm here at the beginning and willing to give it the old college try this time! (And I went to Texas A&M, so the military stuff shouldn't be too hard to sift through!)

:welcome: You did post a few times on the old thread, but now that you're here early on, maybe it will be easier to not feel so overwhelmed. HA!LOL! "The old college try"- That's what I'm always feeling like on Jordan's thread!! :lmao: :lmao:

We've had several friends go to A&M - they LOVED it!! But don't let my military talk fool you (this is ONLY for you!! :ssst: ) I have no idea what I"m talking about- but it makes for some fun writing. :laughing:

I'm here, I'm here! Like the new name - who's was that? I don't remember it.

Welcome back, Rebecca!! It was actually a joint effort between my own daughter, Rebekah (MKBekka) and myself. We really wanted both elements there- that we are strangers AND the military part, so I could go on with that theme.

Hey, Strangers! :wave:


Kathy

Oh, aren't you a clever one??!! HOWDY, Kathy!! :wave:

I'm here to lurk along with the new thread! :wave2:

NO!!, No, it's way more fun if you post and be silly with us! At least say howdy once in a while! (please?!) Here's a hearty :welcome: to initiate you into the ranks!

I've never been to the brig and don't want to so I'm de-lurking.

:welcome: Then you are a very smart soldier!! Actually, (confession time) I've read all your stuff, but never posted, so you've tipped the friendly scale to your favor. :upsidedow

I LOVE your screen name, by the way. I wish I had come up with something more clever when I joined. Guess it helps to think about it for more than 2 seconds. :rotfl2:

I am the same as diamonintheruff and eliz991! I was a lurker on the other thread and caught up when I could! But I am here now and ready to go! I looked though and could not find exact dates..What exact days will this week of freedom be happening? I wil be there in September too :banana: I told my Mom about this and she loves your story! Can't wait to hear more!

To be honest, I ran out of steam over the last couple of days when I was writing, so I haven't revealed our dates yet. So, you're not crazy, I just hadn't gotten there yet. I promise, VERY soon!! I was hoping to give maroo a chance to introduce herself first, but she is REALLY, REALLY sick!!! (Could you all pray for her?!) If she can't get on in the next few days, I'll move forward and fill you in some more. (without all the pomp and circumstance, though, our dates are the 5-14th)

Anyhow, here's a :welcome:

I'm here! :banana:

The "regulars" are lining up! How is school going?? Is getting out at 9:52 hard? Still laughing at that! :rotfl:

I'm herre Liessa will catch up later

OK, Rosie!! Glad you made it over, but don't expect you to be here a lot before your trip! You lucky cat picture poster, you!! :woohoo:

I'll be along for the fun too!

Super, duper, New Recruit! Glad you are here! :welcome:

Wow! You have been busy for the last 24 hours. You are already on page 4. Life has been crazy but hopefully I will be able to get back on here pretty regularly. Can't wait to continue the fun. Oh, guess what? DH just booked us a trip to POR! We are going June 4-10. We have never stayed there, only stayed onsite one other time because it is so darn expensive. DH got a pincode about 3 months ago and just now decided to use it. I am so excited!

All I can say is, I'm glad this just coincidentally came around when my DH was out of town!! Seriously, this whole ball of wax would have fallen apart if he was around! You know, the whole "you're on there too much" stuff. I had no idea the change over would involve so much time!!! AND I LOVE IT!!!

WOOT!!! :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo: A new trip in the works!! And with a PIN code! Very well done! Congratulations! See, you'll be there before me. I may have some covert missions for you to do. Some re-con, so to speak. I'll be thinking about your special operations, ok? ;)

[Diamondintheruff]

Well if we're confessing, I've seen you around lots and always meant to start following your stuff. It was the camel. No one else has one. It's just taken me some time to get around to it.

Diamond really is one of my nicknames but it was already taken when I tried to sign up. It's my birthstone. It was my Dh who thought of Diamondintheruff. Only he likes to tease me about changing the "r" to a "b".

So if you're already following and you've just admitted it, I guess you'll have to come out of lurkdom and post.

[The4bits]

I guess I'll delurk. I'm not so new to the boards but I'm definitely new to contributing. Can't wait to read along and see what you all are up too.

[All7OfUs]

I guess I'll delurk. I'm not so new to the boards but I'm definitely new to contributing. Can't wait to read along and see what you all are up too.

This troop is ALWAYS up to something. I'm never sure what though. :lmao: I'm so excited that you de-lurked the sake of our victory!! It will be that much sweeter :goodvibes

[All7OfUs]

Well if we're confessing, I've seen you around lots and always meant to start following your stuff. It was the camel. No one else has one. It's just taken me some time to get around to it.

Diamond really is one of my nicknames but it was already taken when I tried to sign up. It's my birthstone. It was my Dh who thought of Diamondintheruff. Only he likes to tease me about changing the "r" to a "b".

So if you're already following and you've just admitted it, I guess you'll have to come out of lurkdom and post.

"Diamond in the buff" Oh, that's rich!! :lmao: Sounds like a title to a red light district flick.

Have you ever followed that camel link?? It's to my blog- and that's where I play around with my writing more. If you want to read all about life on the Silk Road, that's the place to go.

HA! Yep, it's just about time I did that! :hippie:

[Circusgirl]

Hello new thread!!!

It's quite a party already!

[All7OfUs]

Hello new thread!!!

It's quite a party already!

Glad you found us, Heather! I was going to go back and put out a few more personal invitations today, but you beat me to it. YAY!! Hopefully, we can keep adding stuff that will still be fun and fresh. But honestly, the time has gone so quickly and I thought I'd even be further along in our series of info posts. I guess it's true- time flies when you're having fun!

[pooh'smate]

I am here. :flower3: I have to go and finish reading the other thread. I got behind when they blocked the Dis at work but then they fixed it so I can read at work again. (I am alowed to read between calls.) I love your new title.

[All7OfUs]

I am here. :flower3: I have to go and finish reading the other thread. I got behind when they blocked the Dis at work but then they fixed it so I can read at work again. (I am alowed to read between calls.) I love your new title.

I'd love to have a whole lunch hour and other snippets of time to read up on stuff!! Fun! I don't know how much more you have to read on the other thread, but there is a recap towards the end that might be helpful. Either way, welcome back!

I'm taking suggestions now for a game we could play in a month or so. Maybe something having to do with our itineraries or meals that we'll stick in, or such?? Any thoughts??

[that's nice]

WOW... there are quite a few 'new' people on this thread. This looks like it is going to be some party till 9/10!

Oh HI Liesa!!!:wave2:

Just checking in after a long day snowboarding and then guys night out!:surfweb:

[tinkgurl]

Haha, it was weird being in class that late!

[MKBekka]

I go to bed and the whole thing jumps to 5 pages!! of chitter-chatter!!

popcorn::popcorn::

[All7OfUs]

WOW... there are quite a few 'new' people on this thread. This looks like it is going to be some party till 9/10!

Oh HI Liesa!!!:wave2:

Just checking in after a long day snowboarding and then guys night out!:surfweb:

I know, I know!! Isn't it fun??! I hope they'll post often so we can get to know them better. :thumbsup2 There are some really fun, interesting and creative people here.

Oh! Hi Tim! :wave2:

I think if I went snowboarding, I'd not be able to stand up for about a week! Shall I even dare to ask what guy's nite out consisted of?? :confused3:rolleyes1

Haha, it was weird being in class that late!

I just think it's funny that they wouldn't schedule it until a more straight up time like, ummm...I don't know... 10:00? :confused3:rotfl2:

I go to bed and the whole thing jumps to 5 pages!! of chitter-chatter!!

popcorn::popcorn::

:hyper2::hyper2::hyper2::hyper2:

[MAGICFOR2]

I'd love to have a whole lunch hour and other snippets of time to read up on stuff!! Fun! I don't know how much more you have to read on the other thread, but there is a recap towards the end that might be helpful. Either way, welcome back!

I'm taking suggestions now for a game we could play in a month or so. Maybe something having to do with our itineraries or meals that we'll stick in, or such?? Any thoughts??

Maybe you could describe a menu item and let everyone guess which restaurant it is from?

[All7OfUs]

Maybe you could describe a menu item and let everyone guess which restaurant it is from?

Hey Tammy, that's a great idea! I'm also, like Jordan, mulling around some fun photo themes for us to go with. Finding some couples doing PDAs would be interesting to capture! All within reason of course! ;)

[MKBekka]

:hyper2::hyper2::hyper2::hyper2:

you do like to talk
:faint:

[glennbo123]

Hey, Cynthia did a nice job on your new siggie thingie. :thumbsup2

[disney<333]

Great start and Great pictures! I love your potato head. He's coming along for the ride, right?;)
Too cool that your DD is a DISER too.

[englishrose47]

http://i563.photobucket.com/albums/ss80/englishrose47_/336737586_107dd909fc_o.gif

I had multi quoted but lost it !!! My Cats continue !!! Blame Winkers !!!
I may not be on to much as time is running out !! Keep my thread alive while I'm gone Please Liessa !!:worship:

For all of you who have been praying for Baby Bree keep them coming ..sheis doing better !! Praise the Lord !!!

[All7OfUs]

Hey, Cynthia did a nice job on your new siggie thingie. :thumbsup2

You beat me to, Glenn!! I had a serious tamale making Fest for the entire afternoon, so wasn't on a lot of the time, so am behind on "maintenance" things.

The first and most important thing being: To thank Cynthia profusely and abundantly (how's that for classic redundancy??) for the fantabulous new siggie link! THANKS! I love it!! :thumbsup2

Secondly, I need to get a post up tonight, but haven't written it yet. Hopefully later (like in a few hours) there will be something new to think on.

you do like to talk
:faint:

It's an affliction.

Great start and Great pictures! I love your potato head. He's coming along for the ride, right?;)
Too cool that your DD is a DISER too.

Thanks, Barbara! It's been fun to make new friends along the way. I like TV Potato Head too. I don't know, if he's coming or not. He's kinda bulky, but he might like to go to DTD with me to pick out hisher new clothes and accessories??!! :confused3 She's a great DISer, that's for sure!

http://i563.photobucket.com/albums/ss80/englishrose47_/336737586_107dd909fc_o.gif

I had multi quoted but lost it !!! My Cats continue !!! Blame Winkers !!!
I may not be on to much as time is running out !! Keep my thread alive while I'm gone Please Liessa !!:worship:

For all of you who have been praying for Baby Bree keep them coming ..sheis doing better !! Praise the Lord !!!

I know!! You are getting sooooo close!! You all are going to have so much fun!! I"ll do my best to keep everyone in line over at your place while you're gone. But they're an unruly bunch- we'll see.... :rotfl2:

Excellent news about Bree! I was hoping she'd turn the corner soon! :cheer2:

[Sleepingbooty]

Oooh, I like the new siggie link - Good job on that, Cynthia!

[All7OfUs]

The timing of a military campaign is probably one of the most important factors in determining the outcome of success. Remember the surprise attack made by General G. Washington at Christmas, when he crossed the Delaware and defeated the Hessians at Trenton?? It was a resounding victory because its timing was cunningly planned at a time it was least expected. Can the timing of a Quest for Freedom be any different, my friends?? Certainly NOT! Very important factors must come into play. Whereas an army might be concerned with numbers of enemy troops, their weaponry capability and strategic advantages, The Belle Battalion must consider crowds, personal schedules, weather and even special events.

Let’s examine the situation as it stands today. As of right now, our dates are Sept 5- Sept 13th. You all know we are booked at the Port Orleans Riverside for the first 4 days, and the Poly for the last 4 days. 8 nights total. Additionally, Soldier #1 would give her firstborn son and a couple cups of coffee to stay on 3 more nights to score some solo time. That may or may not happen, and is really not super relavent to this treatise. Bear with me; I am going somewhere with this.

I have been doing a lot of thinking. A lot. Given our family’s current circumstances of basically not having a solid clue about when we are returning, I am in a total state of flux. Complete uncertainty. It tears at my obsessive planning nature and renders me a completely inefficient war strategist. All my DH will tell me for certain is that we “will return to the States by the end of the summer”. That is a rather large margin when one is trying to nail down dates for a trip

IN WHICH ADR making DATES ARE COMING IN 1 MONTH!!!!!

Does he NOT understand this?? Apparently NOT! I have tried to press, but he’s the kind of guy that the more you press, the more he digs his heels in won’t make a decision. It’s one of those marriage dances that most couples engage in in one form or another.

For my own sanity, I am assuming what he means is that we’ll be back around August 20th. He does know when my dates are scheduled, and knows that I want this trip to work out more than Jafar wants the Genie. However, that puts us dangerously close to the trip and brings a large set of issues with it.

Maybe for the sake of simplicity, I should just list out what I’m thinking for each scenario, and get your feedback that way. Here we go:

KEEP THE DATES AS THEY ARE:

Pros:

~~~~ Our resorts/rooms have been reserved! This is obviously BIG. If FD comes out, we’ll have the POR portion already in the bag.
~~~~ Also very big: This whole trip in the first place was timed around helping my son get settled into University for the first time. You know, see the campus, meet his roomie, help him move in a little, hug him goodbye, tell him we won’t be ponying up if he blows it- all the usual. His start date is Aug. 30th, so the dates work out well.
~~~~ We can go ahead and start the all-important fine tuning of our itinerary because we can make our ADRs a whole month sooner.
~~~~ It won’t be F & W yet, so I think the crowds will be lower- esp. at EPCOT.
~~~~ We still get in the MNSSHP
~~~~ Both maroo and LeeAnn will have the holiday as an extra day off, allowing them to stay an extra day in Orlando.

Cons:

~~~~ The weather will still be HOT!
~~~~ This cuts it awfully close to our return at the very least. Say, just for thinking this through, we return around Aug. 20th. That would give me only about 5 days to get jet lag ironed out, and then have to say good-bye to the still settling in family for 2 ½ weeks!! Ouch!! I’d say either: We have to return no later than August 10th or I won’t be able to go during these dates. I just can’t do a proper Victory Tour when my body is saying it’s day when it really is night.
~~~~ No F & W


MOVING THE DATES AHEAD TO AROUND OCTOBER 1ST:

Pros:

~~~~ We would have a lot more wiggle room in our return date, and I would have jet lag all worked out, and not have to stress quite as much as leaving the kids and DH so soon after we get back.
~~~~ Not quite as hot. (This is a very small item. Both LeeAnn and I LOVE the hot)
~~~~ We still get MNSSHP
~~~~ F&W will be started.

Cons:

~~~~ One more month in flux.
~~~~ Possible higher crowds due to F&W
~~~~ We may lose our rooms for FD.
~~~~ I won’t get to see my son before he starts classes. Once he starts he won’t have a lot of time to just hang out- if any.
~~~~ No extra day for maroo and LeeAnn as there is no holiday in there.

So, here’s your assignment comrades: Give me your feedback on what you’d do. Tell me about F & W crowds!

[jenb1023]

Lots of de-lurking going on! How exciting! However this may be detrimental to my never-ending quest to stay caught up on this thread.

As for dates, I really don't have an opinion one way or another though I do agree that if you can't get back to the states in early August then it would probably be best to postpone. I wouldn't worry about weather - I was there in mid-Nov in 2008 and it was very cold and I was there late Oct - early Nov in 2009 and it was very hot - so you never know what central FL is going to throw your way. We were there during F&W last year and I did not find Epcot to be overly crowded. I think if you avoid Epcot on Food and Wine weekend evenings you are okay.

[Minnie&Nana]

Oh dear me...coming out of lurkdom too. :thumbsup2

First, I cannot remember if I stopped by yet to say hey and lovin' it....so hey, lovein' the TR! :goodvibes

For now, I have just one thing to say...glad you like it hot because when we've been there early October it's been hotter than August! We went July or August every yr for 10 yrs...then the kids had the nerve to grow up, so I've been scrounging for friends who would go with me since then (a very long time...it 'ain't' easy ya know, when your everyday friends want nothing to do with anything Disney)...anyhoo...sooo...since the '90's I've been a few times mid to late August and end September into early October...it was SO much hotter I could not believe it! Whereas the end of October was gorgeous weather, as was late November and early December.

Other than that...I've got nothing useful to offer your dilemma...except....it sounds like the best option for you - if you do not mind missing helping your son get settled in (a biggie) is October. If your friends do not mind the lack of the extra day due to the holiday.

We've attended F&W the first day and late October - the beginning is mobbed evenings and weekends, very long lines for the food samples - darn busy. It depends on what you can tolerate - it was over 100 everyday and very high humidity, so add the crowds to that and it was definitely uncomfortable...so much so that I'd prefer not to do it again, especially since later in the month was so much nicer...although still long lines on the weekend. MNSSHP was fabulous! I'd be sure to be there for that, if possible(it starts in August now?).

If you go earlier in August, will you be able to see/help your son?

[disneyaddicted]

OK this is huge! Too huge to wrap my brain around but I am going to give it a try.

I like your pros for keeping the dates as they are, just for the whole helping your son get situated and having a few moments with him as opposed to not seeing him before class starts. I guess I would ask him how he feels about that.
Lower crowd levels is always a good thing.

The Cons for keeping the same dates are scary, will you be able to work through Disney with Jet lag? TO me jet lag almost feels like having the flu. Maybe you can handle jet lag better then I ever could, but still that's all the con I would need.

Pros for changing the dates. If you changed your dates to head there Oct 1st, I COULD MEET YOU ALL THEN! :)

I think what I would end up doing is mulling it over for some time, talk to everybody involved and see what makes you most comfortable, there's so many pros and cons for both scenarios. But bottom line, not to repeat myself here, but you want to feel your best when going into battle, jet lag sucks!

[tinkgurl]

After reading through all your pro's and con's..I'm leaning towards moving your trip to around October 1st. It'd be nice to get rid of all that jet lag before heading to WDW! Plus, the weather won't be as H-O-T!

[shannn]

A question:
~Can you go with your son to get him settled in even if you don't go to WDW then?

I lovelovelove going in October. We went in October in 2006 and then again in 2009. We're going again this year. The F&W crowds aren't that bad, as long as you don't go NEAR Epcot on a weekend. We made the mistake of going back to Epcot on a Saturday because we didn't get to do a Kim Possible mission, and it was wall to wall people. If you go during the week, it's not bad at all!

Also, the weather is much better (even if you like heat, I just can't imagine liking August in Orlando!)

AND....if you try, you could overlap my 40th birthday trip....just keep in mind that you want to be there October 13!!! :woohoo:

[jenbear123]

Uh oh. Change in plans... well here's my two cents:

I have not been to Disney during F&W but based on what Bubba tells me, it gets very crowded at Epcot. It wasn't crowded all the time, but it's definitely busier than normal. If you're prepared for crowds, then it might not be so bad. Obviously try to avoid changing the dates if you want less crowds at Epcot. On the contrary, if F&W is important and is something you want to see, go for the later dates.

Pushing back the dates is hard to do. You have to wait longer and it's also going to take away time with your son. This is your son starting college we're talking about here. You'll never get this opportunity again. Choose wisely Young Skywalker. :yoda:

Leaving the dates as is will affect your body clock and getting used to the time difference. However, 5 days is pretty good for getting yourself into the swing of things. It took me about that long when I came back from Italy, where I had stayed for 3 and a half weeks.

Whatever you choose, just be sure you don't lose that free dining! I'm sure you'll make the right choice. :teeth:

[Pollito916]

I can't believe this is already 6 pages!

going back to catch up....

[maroo]

Well......

:rolleyes1:rolleyes1:rolleyes1


It was great talking to you today (tonight there) Liesa...

THIS should be interesting. ::yes::



What if we could keep Free Dining? Add some running? And really mix this up? :surfweb:

[jenb1023]

Well......

:rolleyes1:rolleyes1:rolleyes1


It was great talking to you today (tonight there) Liesa...

THIS should be interesting. ::yes::



What if we could keep Free Dining? Add some running? And really mix this up? :surfweb:

You must be feel better if you are on here stirring the pot! :stir: Can't wait to hear what you two are cooking up! I think a conference call is in order next time so I can be in the know!

[Millie12591]

http://i563.photobucket.com/albums/ss80/englishrose47_/336737586_107dd909fc_o.gif

I had multi quoted but lost it !!! My Cats continue !!! Blame Winkers !!!
I may not be on to much as time is running out !! Keep my thread alive while I'm gone Please Liessa !!:worship:

For all of you who have been praying for Baby Bree keep them coming ..sheis doing better !! Praise the Lord !!!

Praying Rose. :thumbsup2 I guess I missed the actual post about baby Bree.....can someone fill me in?
What ever the issue was, I'm just glad she's better, and yes a big praise to God for these turn of events!! :banana: :banana:

Oh geez, decisions, decisions. In my honest opinion, heat is one thing, but added with humidity is a whole other ball of wax! I don't think I could stand the kind of heat you'll be experiencing in Aug., I went in June and thought how in the world do these people not grow gills while living here?!?! Yes the humidity was that bad!
That being said, I also experienced the start of the heat for the summer in the middle of May and thought, huh uh I would never be able to live here with this kind of heat and humidity, and I LIVE IN SOUTH-MID TEXAS! So I guess what I'm trying to say in all my ramblings is.......what kind of heat can you take? Dry, or humid?
Aside of the weather, I think your answer is already in front of you my dear friend. I think you should wait it out a while longer with dates as they are, (if your team members can) and then see if your DH will know what he wants to do about being in the states in a couple of months from now, if he's still unsure then you need change everything to a later date. Which honestly sounds like will bring some much needed weather relief of sorts, and add's another demention of fun to the mix. :yay: There's no need to throw yourself into a tizzy just coming back into the states, and then having to deal with the jet lag, and possible guilt for leaving in such a hurry. Not worth it in my opinion, and I realize you've got others to think about on your trip, but as you know.....your sanity and family come first. :laughing:

[glennbo123]

Sounds like some good advice from Camille. ::yes::

If you do change, what will your military parlance be? "Fall back, regroup, and counter-attack", maybe?

[kimmylaj]

i made it. page 6 i hope i dont get punished for being so late. i'll just warn you i cant drop and give you 50 pushups . ;)
my opinion is to keep your original dates, it just seems like the way to go so you can get your son settled in school. make adrs sooner and well just see my best friend mickey mouse that much sooner

[eandesmom]

Oh I wish I had a magic answer for your date quandary but it really boils down to when you head back here. On the positive side. Even with FD I really don't think you will have issues changing your dates in terms of room availability. The kind of jet lag and moving stress you are dealing with is potentially huge....I have to admit my gut is still to delay it.

Question though. Why can't you go get him settled in at school as just a 2 day trip and keep them separate? Do they really have to be combined?

I get saving the airfare but it would seem someone will need to be there at least for one day to sign things etc.

[jordanyosh]

If seeing your son off to college is a priority for you, then of course keep things as they are. It'll be kinda crazy-moving, jetlag, trying to get settled, but you'll also be going to WDW!

If your son and you can handle to going off to college w/o seeing each other, then push the dates....

I think family trumps everything else.

[that's nice]

I don't have a great suggestion for you. But as you know making an ADR doesn't cost money (well most of them anyway), so I would just go ahead and make them as if you were going. I can tell you that sometimes October is just as hot as August/September. ;) You can't control the weather.:sad2:

I would assume that you would know by the Spring/ Early summer when/if you are indeed coming back to the states. Then you can make your final decision then. :idea:

[All7OfUs]

Lots of de-lurking going on! How exciting! However this may be detrimental to my never-ending quest to stay caught up on this thread.

As for dates, I really don't have an opinion one way or another though I do agree that if you can't get back to the states in early August then it would probably be best to postpone. I wouldn't worry about weather - I was there in mid-Nov in 2008 and it was very cold and I was there late Oct - early Nov in 2009 and it was very hot - so you never know what central FL is going to throw your way. We were there during F&W last year and I did not find Epcot to be overly crowded. I think if you avoid Epcot on Food and Wine weekend evenings you are okay.

I love the de-lurking going on!

Yeah, I know the weather can really be a crap shoot, and hey, Sept is def. still right in there with hurricane season. And we all know about that, right maroo??!! :rolleyes1

I think what I"m hearing is a consensus that if we avoid EPCOT on the weekends, we should be fine. I guess I want the best of both worlds there: Get F&W AND have it all to myself. :lmao:

Oh dear me...coming out of lurkdom too. :thumbsup2

First, I cannot remember if I stopped by yet to say hey and lovin' it....so hey, lovein' the TR! :goodvibes

You had already gone through basic training and said hello, but you are always welcome to come around and say hi again :) I'm sure all those buffed out army guys (and gals) go through basic training exercises often. :confused3 ;)

For now, I have just one thing to say...glad you like it hot because when we've been there early October it's been hotter than August! We went July or August every yr for 10 yrs...then the kids had the nerve to grow up, so I've been scrounging for friends who would go with me since then (a very long time...it 'ain't' easy ya know, when your everyday friends want nothing to do with anything Disney)...anyhoo...sooo...since the '90's I've been a few times mid to late August and end September into early October...it was SO much hotter I could not believe it! Whereas the end of October was gorgeous weather, as was late November and early December.

If we do end up postponing it would be the first week of October anyways, so I think we're still in for a hot time. Pun intended.

Finding the RIGHT touring partners is tough business! I think it's really important to not find just anyone, but someone who shares your passion and style. Finding the person WITH the same love for Disney is doubly hard!!

Other than that...I've got nothing useful to offer your dilemma...except....it sounds like the best option for you - if you do not mind missing helping your son get settled in (a biggie) is October. If your friends do not mind the lack of the extra day due to the holiday.

First I need to call the university and ask if I HAVE to be there for paper signing etc.... Then I need to talk to my son, and see what his thoughts on it are. The good thing is that my parent's will be in the same city and will be sherphering him through a lot of the process anyway.

More on the timing and the holiday later- don't want to spill the beans too soon. ;)

We've attended F&W the first day and late October - the beginning is mobbed evenings and weekends, very long lines for the food samples - darn busy. It depends on what you can tolerate - it was over 100 everyday and very high humidity, so add the crowds to that and it was definitely uncomfortable...so much so that I'd prefer not to do it again, especially since later in the month was so much nicer...although still long lines on the weekend. MNSSHP was fabulous! I'd be sure to be there for that, if possible(it starts in August now?).

If you go earlier in August, will you be able to see/help your son?

Hmmm.... I don't anticipate doing a TON of sampling. Right now I have my heart set on hitting the Ditch for a margharita and some of those luscious looking crab tostadas. So the long lines won't bother me too much. It's the Pavilions themselves I am wanting to explore really deeply this time. I just don't want it to be wall-to-wall people so I can't see them.

There's no way to make it earlier as the earliest I think we'd be home is August 15th.

OK this is huge! Too huge to wrap my brain around but I am going to give it a try.

I like your pros for keeping the dates as they are, just for the whole helping your son get situated and having a few moments with him as opposed to not seeing him before class starts. I guess I would ask him how he feels about that.
Lower crowd levels is always a good thing.

I am planning on calling him today and talking to him about his feelings. I think he wont' care either way. Maybe my visiting him is really more for me than for him??

Low crowds are always a good thing! HA! yeah, my life's mantra.

The Cons for keeping the same dates are scary, will you be able to work through Disney with Jet lag? TO me jet lag almost feels like having the flu. Maybe you can handle jet lag better then I ever could, but still that's all the con I would need.

I just don't know. I mean let's say I'm sitting there in the Cali, and I just hit the wall. I've looked forward to this meal for a year and a half, and I just don't want to ruin it with a bad decision. Seriously, it takes me no less than 2weeks to be fully over it. the older I get.... :rolleyes1

Pros for changing the dates. If you changed your dates to head there Oct 1st, I COULD MEET YOU ALL THEN! :)

I KNOWWWWWWWWWW!! YOU and several others. I know Wings is running it, as well as Carissa, and some others. I think this would be some seriously fun stuff happening. I'm thinking Lapus in the lounge. ??? Ok, I'm getting ahead of myself.

I think what I would end up doing is mulling it over for some time, talk to everybody involved and see what makes you most comfortable, there's so many pros and cons for both scenarios. But bottom line, not to repeat myself here, but you want to feel your best when going into battle, jet lag sucks!



Yes, you are so right. I don't have to decide today, and ideally, no positively, I need to wait for DH to get home on the 11th and talk it over with him. I have to press (even though I don't like to) for timeline from him, so we can get our plans settled.

After reading through all your pro's and con's..I'm leaning towards moving your trip to around October 1st. It'd be nice to get rid of all that jet lag before heading to WDW! Plus, the weather won't be as H-O-T!

Yes, me too, Tink. It just makes more sense. In all regards- except seeing Andrew before the start of classes.

A question:
~Can you go with your son to get him settled in even if you don't go to WDW then?

Not really. I can really only afford one trip back to the "east" so I'll have to stop in Kentucky "on the way". I'd spend a week or 10 days visiting my family and possibly driving up to DC to visit my other sister. I guess what I'm saying is I need to make the most of my one trip back there. I won't get another chance for about a year or so.

I lovelovelove going in October. We went in October in 2006 and then again in 2009. We're going again this year. The F&W crowds aren't that bad, as long as you don't go NEAR Epcot on a weekend. We made the mistake of going back to Epcot on a Saturday because we didn't get to do a Kim Possible mission, and it was wall to wall people. If you go during the week, it's not bad at all!

Also, the weather is much better (even if you like heat, I just can't imagine liking August in Orlando!)

AND....if you try, you could overlap my 40th birthday trip....just keep in mind that you want to be there October 13!!! :woohoo:

OK, got it. NO EPCOT on the weekends. We can manage that. I guess it's a huge local attraction hence the high crowds.

Ohhh.... nutz. I think the very latest I'd be staying is the 11th- that's IF (big FAT IF) I stay on for a couple solo days. But you're still coming to Nashville, right??? That's still on! Dates TBA!

Uh oh. Change in plans... well here's my two cents:

I have not been to Disney during F&W but based on what Bubba tells me, it gets very crowded at Epcot. It wasn't crowded all the time, but it's definitely busier than normal. If you're prepared for crowds, then it might not be so bad. Obviously try to avoid changing the dates if you want less crowds at Epcot. On the contrary, if F&W is important and is something you want to see, go for the later dates.

I did go during Flower and GArden last year, and it wasn't toooooo bad, but I think F& W will be worse. It was manageable. We still got our stuff done that we wanted to. Just takes extra careful planning- we are DISers- we do that well. :laughing:

I want to try F&W, but I also want to have it all to myself. :rotfl2:

Pushing back the dates is hard to do. You have to wait longer and it's also going to take away time with your son. This is your son starting college we're talking about here. You'll never get this opportunity again. Choose wisely Young Skywalker. :yoda:

Choose wisely, I will! You are so right. I would feel badly if he was going somewhere where there was NO family around at all, but my parents will be there. Also, he's actually not been living at home for 2 years already. So, he's used to being out on his own. I think he won't mind either way as much.

Leaving the dates as is will affect your body clock and getting used to the time difference. However, 5 days is pretty good for getting yourself into the swing of things. It took me about that long when I came back from Italy, where I had stayed for 3 and a half weeks.

Whatever you choose, just be sure you don't lose that free dining! I'm sure you'll make the right choice. :teeth:


After 5 days, I can at least get up after 4 AM, but realistically it takes a little longer (up to 2 weeks) to shake the sleepies in the afternoon. I know Disney adrenaline will help, but I really want to be on my best game.

YES! NEED FD!!! Otherwise our siggie dinners go out the window.

[All7OfUs]

You guys took this assignment seriously!! Phew!! Lots of good stuff here... continuing on...


I can't believe this is already 6 pages!

going back to catch up....

I know! It's going to be another fast mover. So much FUN!!

Well......

:rolleyes1:rolleyes1:


It was great talking to you today (tonight there) Liesa...

THIS should be interesting. ::yes::



What if we could keep Free Dining? Add some running? And really mix this up? :surfweb:

:stir::stir::stir::stir:

It's definitely going to interesting at the VERY LEAST! ;):woohoo::woohoo:

You must be feel better if you are on here stirring the pot! :stir: Can't wait to hear what you two are cooking up! I think a conference call is in order next time so I can be in the know!

I think there's yet even more surprises ahead!! Poor LeeAnn, she has absolutely NO idea what she's gotten herself into. :lmao::lmao::lmao:

Praying Rose. :thumbsup2 I guess I missed the actual post about baby Bree.....can someone fill me in?
What ever the issue was, I'm just glad she's better, and yes a big praise to God for these turn of events!! :banana: :banana:

[QUOTE=Millie12591;35271770]Oh geez, decisions, decisions. In my honest opinion, heat is one thing, but added with humidity is a whole other ball of wax! I don't think I could stand the kind of heat you'll be experiencing in Aug., I went in June and thought how in the world do these people not grow gills while living here?!?! Yes the humidity was that bad!
That being said, I also experienced the start of the heat for the summer in the middle of May and thought, huh uh I would never be able to live here with this kind of heat and humidity, and I LIVE IN SOUTH-MID TEXAS! So I guess what I'm trying to say in all my ramblings is.......what kind of heat can you take? Dry, or humid?

I lived in Thailand for 3 months during hot season. It was hard. But then again I was 8 and 9 months pregnant. Soooooo.... I think we'll be ok, but will have to slow down some. IF we keep the dates we have.

Aside of the weather, I think your answer is already in front of you my dear friend. I think you should wait it out a while longer with dates as they are, (if your team members can) and then see if your DH will know what he wants to do about being in the states in a couple of months from now, if he's still unsure then you need change everything to a later date. Which honestly sounds like will bring some much needed weather relief of sorts, and add's another demention of fun to the mix. :yay:

Yes, I really do need to wait and see what DH says. I think, in the end he'll want me to postpone a little and that might be a good thing. ;) It actually works out for maroo better if we postpone, but I'll let her add what she wants to on that. popcorn::

There's no need to throw yourself into a tizzy just coming back into the states, and then having to deal with the jet lag, and possible guilt for leaving in such a hurry. Not worth it in my opinion, and I realize you've got others to think about on your trip, but as you know.....your sanity and family come first. :laughing:

Yep, too much too soon! Family is first!

Sounds like some good advice from Camille. ::yes::

If you do change, what will your military parlance be? "Fall back, regroup, and counter-attack", maybe?

I Love that!! I'm so stealing that for our big reveal chapter title!!!!! :thumbsup2

i made it. page 6 i hope i dont get punished for being so late. i'll just warn you i cant drop and give you 50 pushups . ;)
my opinion is to keep your original dates, it just seems like the way to go so you can get your son settled in school. make adrs sooner and well just see my best friend mickey mouse that much sooner

I coudn't even do one!!! Seriously, I tried the other day, and it just wasnt' happening. I know, pathetic.

too true, lots of good with keeping it the same. oh, this decision is so hard!

[All7OfUs]

Oh I wish I had a magic answer for your date quandary but it really boils down to when you head back here. On the positive side. Even with FD I really don't think you will have issues changing your dates in terms of room availability. The kind of jet lag and moving stress you are dealing with is potentially huge....I have to admit my gut is still to delay it.

It certainly might be nice and easy if someone just did make the decision for me, and that well may happen when DH returns. Unfortunately, until then, everything's a great big ????

It IS huge. It's not just a travel thing. It's a MOVING thing; a whole setting up house from SCRATCH thing. It's a getting all the kids into school thing; finding out about comm. college for Bek thing. Delaying would relieve some of the stress. That's for sure!

Question though. Why can't you go get him settled in at school as just a 2 day trip and keep them separate? Do they really have to be combined?

I get saving the airfare but it would seem someone will need to be there at least for one day to sign things etc.

I wonder if my parents would spring for another ticket for a quickie trip to Kentucky?? I should ask. I"m not the baby, Jordan, but my parent's treat me like that sometimes. ;) I like it. :lmao:

OK, I"m convinced. I need to call the university and ask about the process and all that. If this were my 4th kid going to school, it'd be easier, but it's the first, and we have our heads where the sun don't shine.

If seeing your son off to college is a priority for you, then of course keep things as they are. It'll be kinda crazy-moving, jetlag, trying to get settled, but you'll also be going to WDW!

If your son and you can handle to going off to college w/o seeing each other, then push the dates....

I think family trumps everything else.

I really need to get his honest feedback (yeah, right, he's a teenage boy!) and see what he says. Other than that, the other four will need a lot of shepherding during the first weeks as well. Hmm.....:confused3


I don't have a great suggestion for you. But as you know making an ADR doesn't cost money (well most of them anyway), so I would just go ahead and make them as if you were going. I can tell you that sometimes October is just as hot as August/September. ;) You can't control the weather.:sad2:

I would assume that you would know by the Spring/ Early summer when/if you are indeed coming back to the states. Then you can make your final decision then. :idea:


That's what maroo said. We can always make our ADRs and change them if need be.

Honestly, we should know for sure by the end of Feb. All this confusion will be cleared up by then, and we can proceed without further muddy waters. I just hate the place we're in now. I know, I know, pray more.

[Millie12591]

Sounds like some good advice from Camille. ::yes::

If you do change, what will your military parlance be? "Fall back, regroup, and counter-attack", maybe?
:goodvibes Thank you Glennbo! She's a smart cookie, she'll do the right thing for herself.
:)

It certainly might be nice and easy if someone just did make the decision for me, and that well may happen when DH returns. Unfortunately, until then, everything's a great big ????

It IS huge. It's not just a travel thing. It's a MOVING thing; a whole setting up house from SCRATCH thing. It's a getting all the kids into school thing; finding out about comm. college for Bek thing. Delaying would relieve some of the stress. That's for sure!



I wonder if my parents would spring for another ticket for a quickie trip to Kentucky?? I should ask. I"m not the baby, Jordan, but my parent's treat me like that sometimes. ;) I like it. :lmao:

OK, I"m convinced. I need to call the university and ask about the process and all that. If this were my 4th kid going to school, it'd be easier, but it's the first, and we have our heads where the sun don't shine.



I really need to get his honest feedback (yeah, right, he's a teenage boy!) and see what he says. Other than that, the other four will need a lot of shepherding during the first weeks as well. Hmm.....:confused3





That's what maroo said. We can always make our ADRs and change them if need be. Veeeery good plan. A plan I would stick with if I were you.

Honestly, we should know for sure by the end of Feb. All this confusion will be cleared up by then, and we can proceed without further muddy waters. I just hate the place we're in now. I know, I know, pray more.

Alllllllllways a good choice. :thumbsup2 A choice you can never go wrong in. Just one step at a time, girlie, none of this has to be decided right away. When I feel all these things swimming in my head, like you have right now, I write them all down, this way it won't seem so daunting. I've had to do this with our coming trip, with all the things I need to get done and accomplished before hand, I had to put them to paper. It looks so much better down on paper and helps me sort out what needs to be taken care of first. I'm probably preaching to the choir, with all the years of homeschooling you probably have more organization skills in your pinky than I have in my whole body! :rotfl:

[MKBekka]

CON FOR EITHER TIME~~~~ I have to be in school, cook, clean and otherwise keep your new house looking like it's able to be lived in. ;)

[that's nice]

I don't think I've seen that many multi-quotes on here before!!! :lmao:

I know you will be fine with what ever happens... just as long as it DOES happen.

Is your DH back yet?

[carissanboys]

It would drive me nuts not knowing exactly when we were moving back. And let me just say that, being a military spouse, I have been in that position many times. :sad2:

All I can do is give my opinion on what *I* would do.

I would choose to delay the trip until October. It would just be too stressful for me cutting the return date and the trip date so close. I'd rather have some breathing room.

I also don't like the heat so that would be a bigger factor for me.

As for the crowds, I was surprised at how low the crowds were for Heidi during her solo F & W trip. :thumbsup2

[All7OfUs]

I don't think I've seen that many multi-quotes on here before!!! :lmao:

I know you will be fine with what ever happens... just as long as it DOES happen.

Is your DH back yet?

I freaked when I got on this morning!! Everyone is SO full of really helpful and sage advice!! I am very grateful that there are so many people with such great thoughts here.

Yes, I am fine with it. If you had told me 3 months ago, I'd have to consider changing our dates, I would have thrown a hissy. Now, I really need to be wise and careful. I know it'll happen, so I'm not too worried, and honestly, we have some really good ideas cooked up, soooooooo......

No, he leaves the States on the 9th, and arrives here in our village on the evening of the 11th. That'd be the 11th morning for you. A full 48 hours of travel this time. I still have 5 puppies that need feeding 3 times a day and frequent warm up times in the house. No takers yet, but the add comes out tomorrow in the paper again. We'll see. :confused3

[All7OfUs]

It would drive me nuts not knowing exactly when we were moving back. And let me just say that, being a military spouse, I have been in that position many times. :sad2:

All I can do is give my opinion on what *I* would do.

I would choose to delay the trip until October. It would just be too stressful for me cutting the return date and the trip date so close. I'd rather have some breathing room.

I also don't like the heat so that would be a bigger factor for me.

As for the crowds, I was surprised at how low the crowds were for Heidi during her solo F & W trip. :thumbsup2

I can totally relate to how you feel. It is literally making me sick. My hair is falling out, and I have a constant stomach ache. UGH!!

You know... I'm on Heidi's TR, and you're right! Her pictures really show some good crowd levels. Oy Bolshoi's Dining Report has gotten me very intrigued about F&W, so, I really kinda would like to try it.

At the very least I'll need some time to get over jet lag, let alone unpack boxes and do some cooking ahead. (Yes, I"m that kind of housewife.

[All7OfUs]

CON FOR EITHER TIME~~~~ I have to be in school, cook, clean and otherwise keep your new house looking like it's able to be lived in. ;)

All in the name of good practice- your future husband will be in for a good catch!! ;):thumbsup2

[carissanboys]

I can totally relate to how you feel. It is literally making me sick. My hair is falling out, and I have a constant stomach ache. UGH!!

You know... I'm on Heidi's TR, and you're right! Her pictures really show some good crowd levels. Oy Bolshoi's Dining Report has gotten me very intrigued about F&W, so, I really kinda would like to try it.

At the very least I'll need some time to get over jet lag, let alone unpack boxes and do some cooking ahead. (Yes, I"m that kind of housewife.

I think F & W would be cool. :thumbsup2 We just did F & G on our last trip and we loved it. :flower3:

I definitely would want to feel settled before I went on a trip. I apologize for not having read through everything, but do you guys already have a house back in the states?

[All7OfUs]

Sort of. I'll answer here rather than quote you, though.

My MIL just passed away last week (the reason my DH is in the States right now). But even before that my in-laws were feeling like they were ready to "give up" the house. It is a fairly large home on the Willamette River in Salem, OR that's been in the family for a few generations. In fact, my DH's grandfather built it, as a 2 room cabin that has been added onto several times.

The layout isn't perfect, but hey, location, location, location!! It's easy to add a bathroom upstairs, so I'm not worried that it won't work for us. His sisters are thrilled beyond words that it will most likely stay in the family, and we can continue to have river access and family holidays there.

We own a home in Portland (about an hour north) that has been rented out all these 10 years. I'm fairly certain it will need A LOT of work before we'll be able to sell it so that we can buy "Lower Lincoln", so we may have to live in Portland in a temporary place (our church has a place) until then. It actually could be a while- like 6 months or so.

HOWEVER!!! If my DH finds a job (he's an engineering geologist) in Salem we'll move into Lower Lincoln right away and commute to and from the rental from there. We do have enough savings to live off that for about 6 months if need be. So we'll have to just see how the dice roll.

There's the long answer to a relatively simple question. :rolleyes:

[carissanboys]

I'm so sorry to hear about your MIL. :hug:

Wow. I didn't realize you guys have been over there for ten years! Sounds like you have lots of options when you move back. I hope it all works out smoothly. :thumbsup2

[Diamondintheruff]

I'm sorry to hear about your MIL.

I also know the stress of trying to get just the "right" dates for your vacation. I trust you will work it out. Because you've already crossed the hurdle of can I go to disney and where will I stay. Which are some pretty big questions.

Since you're asking opinions, here is mine. I would take the later time. That gives your son some time to make friends and then when you visit him you'll get to meet them. While I get how important it is to do the traditional drop-off visit, I just think you'll learn more information about what his life at school is like if you do the later visit.

I was there for F&W last year. We even did a saturday afternoon at Epcot. It wasn't too bad. In fact the people watching was pretty darn good. I've also done the first week of free dining in August twice. That was busy. I always missed free dinning dates by just a smige so I we were there before it started. There was a big difference those days before it started.

Good luck with the decision. Either way you still get to see your son's school and get to visit disney. :woohoo:

[All7OfUs]

I'm sorry to hear about your MIL.

I also know the stress of trying to get just the "right" dates for your vacation. I trust you will work it out. Because you've already crossed the hurdle of can I go to disney and where will I stay. Which are some pretty big questions.

Hey Diamond!

You know if there weren't so many factors influencing the decision it would be so much easier! But my trip affects so many people! Not just my trip partners, but my family, and maybe even my parents. But you're right the big ones are made: IF I can, and WHERE to go.

Since you're asking opinions, here is mine. I would take the later time. That gives your son some time to make friends and then when you visit him you'll get to meet them. While I get how important it is to do the traditional drop-off visit, I just think you'll learn more information about what his life at school is like if you do the later visit.

Love your opinion!

I hadn't heard that angle before, and it's very wise of you to see it! You're right!! After he's been there a month may even BE better- he'll know his way around, and have a few friends and his room will be thoroughly pig-sty'd out, so I can see his normal life. :lmao:

I was there for F&W last year. We even did a saturday afternoon at Epcot. It wasn't too bad. In fact the people watching was pretty darn good. I've also done the first week of free dining in August twice. That was busy. I always missed free dinning dates by just a smige so I we were there before it started. There was a big difference those days before it started.

Good luck with the decision. Either way you still get to see your son's school and get to visit disney. :woohoo:

I can only imagine what the people watching time produced! :rotfl2:

[If U Had Wings]

I'd have to say to just hang back, keep the days you have, and if you have to change later do it.

I've gone both the first week of September and the last week of September into October. I didn't really find one cooler than the other, and we hit the rainy season for both of them. Honestly you can't go wrong either way.

[All7OfUs]

I'd have to say to just hang back, keep the days you have, and if you have to change later do it.

I've gone both the first week of September and the last week of September into October. I didn't really find one cooler than the other, and we hit the rainy season for both of them. Honestly you can't go wrong either way.

So true. I think the weather is only going to be slightly different, if at all. I have a little bit of time before we really must decide, so I'll take it! :)

[eandesmom]

you have lots of time! I've changed trips on the 46th day, right before full payment was due. Not that I'm suggesting that mind you but....

BREATHE

:hug:

[All7OfUs]

you have lots of time! I've changed trips on the 46th day, right before full payment was due. Not that I'm suggesting that mind you but....

BREATHE

:hug:

That would totally wig me out! Totally!

Breathing!

[jordanyosh]

CON FOR EITHER TIME~~~~ I have to be in school, cook, clean and otherwise keep your new house looking like it's able to be lived in. ;)

It's awful that she gets to go and you don't...maybe she'll bring you back a nice souvenir..:thumbsup2 Hint. Hint.

[jordanyosh]

Sort of. I'll answer here rather than quote you, though.

My MIL just passed away last week (the reason my DH is in the States right now). But even before that my in-laws were feeling like they were ready to "give up" the house. It is a fairly large home on the Willamette River in Salem, OR that's been in the family for a few generations. In fact, my DH's grandfather built it, as a 2 room cabin that has been added onto several times.

The layout isn't perfect, but hey, location, location, location!! It's easy to add a bathroom upstairs, so I'm not worried that it won't work for us. His sisters are thrilled beyond words that it will most likely stay in the family, and we can continue to have river access and family holidays there.

We own a home in Portland (about an hour north) that has been rented out all these 10 years. I'm fairly certain it will need A LOT of work before we'll be able to sell it so that we can buy "Lower Lincoln", so we may have to live in Portland in a temporary place (our church has a place) until then. It actually could be a while- like 6 months or so.

HOWEVER!!! If my DH finds a job (he's an engineering geologist) in Salem we'll move into Lower Lincoln right away and commute to and from the rental from there. We do have enough savings to live off that for about 6 months if need be. So we'll have to just see how the dice roll.

There's the long answer to a relatively simple question. :rolleyes:

thanks for the summary!

good to review the factors going into the move.....:thumbsup2

[Minnie&Nana]

Oh, I am so sorry to hear of your mother-in-law's passing.:hug:

You sure have a full plate when it comes to plans coming up - moving, when, where etc...sigh...I grew up in a Navy family, so what sounds like a huge deal to some is simply part of life for others.

A WDW trip is just the ticket!! ::yes:: Without a doubt, as I know you know ;), whenever it comes together is going to be right and an absolutely magical time for all! And, although it means more EPCOT crowds, it is kinda neat to be there when something special is going on.....and MNSSHP sounds much better to do in October, rather than August...but maybe that's just my lopsided view.:thumbsup2

Guess I am now offically a former lurker. :teeth:

[MainStMandy]

I'm so sorry to hear about your MIL. That's always hard.

As for your trip dates...I am anti-September. The trip we took last year, while low on crowds...was too insanely hot for me. I mean we would get up in the morning and water would be dripping down the wall! YUCK!

[jenb1023]

CON FOR EITHER TIME~~~~ I have to be in school, cook, clean and otherwise keep your new house looking like it's able to be lived in. ;)

All in the name of good practice- your future husband will be in for a good catch!! ;):thumbsup2

Forget a future husband! I know a nice family in Pennsylvania that would love to have someone help to cook and clean. ;) A daughter that is smart enough to be on the DIS and goes to school, cooks and cleans - Liesa you are a very lucky mom! :thumbsup2

[All7OfUs]

It's awful that she gets to go and you don't...maybe she'll bring you back a nice souvenir..:thumbsup2 Hint. Hint.

I've got her covered! I can't, well, yes I can tell you what I had planned for her. We all, but especially Bek, were attracted to those beautiful masks in Italy. I am really hoping I can find a pin of one of the designs for her. Does anyone know if they make those?? Anyone? Anyone?

thanks for the summary!

good to review the factors going into the move.....:thumbsup2

Your welcome! Maybe I've analyzed this thing too much and am making it all way more complicated that it really is. Right now it just seems too huge.

Oh, I am so sorry to hear of your mother-in-law's passing.:hug:

You sure have a full plate when it comes to plans coming up - moving, when, where etc...sigh...I grew up in a Navy family, so what sounds like a huge deal to some is simply part of life for others.

Thanks, so much, hon!!! We had so many well wishes, and it really does make all the difference in the world!!

We've had to move back and forth every 3 years and have done that 3 times. It's always stressful, but this time much more so, because we have 2 houses to sell and vacate. It's too early to look for a job, but even that is a big unknown. :guilty:

A WDW trip is just the ticket!! ::yes:: Without a doubt, as I know you know ;), whenever it comes together is going to be right and an absolutely magical time for all! And, although it means more EPCOT crowds, it is kinda neat to be there when something special is going on.....and MNSSHP sounds much better to do in October, rather than August...but maybe that's just my lopsided view.:thumbsup2

Guess I am now offically a former lurker. :teeth:

Yay for FORMER lurkers!! None of that allowed! :goodvibes

You are just the person who put it all into perspective for me! Whenever it is (either Sept OR Oct.) it will be "just right"!

I loved F&G in 2008, and I'm sure F&W will be too!

I'm so sorry to hear about your MIL. That's always hard.

As for your trip dates...I am anti-September. The trip we took last year, while low on crowds...was too insanely hot for me. I mean we would get up in the morning and water would be dripping down the wall! YUCK!

It was rather sudden, which makes it kinda weird. My husband was planning a trip home, because she did have cancer, but she ended up passing away from something else in the end.

Another vote for postponing... hmmm....

Forget a future husband! I know a nice family in Pennsylvania that would love to have someone help to cook and clean. ;) A daughter that is smart enough to be on the DIS and goes to school, cooks and cleans - Liesa you are a very lucky mom! :thumbsup2

:lmao: She is THE MOST wonderful daughter. I know she will make a very good homemaker and nurse someday. Now... how to pay for college... I know rent her out! :rotfl2::rotfl2: She does a pretty mean choco cake and doughnuts to die for! :cloud9:

[Minnie&Nana]

Thanks, so much, hon!!! We had so many well wishes, and it really does make all the difference in the world!!

We've had to move back and forth every 3 years and have done that 3 times. It's always stressful, but this time much more so, because we have 2 houses to sell and vacate. It's too early to look for a job, but even that is a big unknown. :guilty:


I am going tuck this away in my prayer, yet hold it near - that all will come together with abundant blessings. http://i398.photobucket.com/albums/pp67/christine7273/c6ea3b64.gif

...and a little Pixie Dust couldn't hurt either! http://i398.photobucket.com/albums/pp67/christine7273/cc99909d.gif

[All7OfUs]

BIG, HUGE, SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS NEWS!!!

We just got word that our son, is being offered an ROTC scholarship for full tuition, fees, books and a whopping stipend for both his top schools!!!! WOOT!

:cool1::cool1::cool1:KaChing!!! :cool1::cool1::cool1:

[Minnie&Nana]

Oh my gosh!!!

Congratulations!!!!!!

:cheer2: :dance3: :woohoo: :cheer2: :yay: :cheer2: http://i398.photobucket.com/albums/pp67/christine7273/f809de82.gif

[Millie12591]

BIG, HUGE, SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS NEWS!!!

We just got word that our son, is being offered an ROTC scholarship for full tuition, fees, books and a whopping stipend for both his top schools!!!! WOOT!

:cool1::cool1::cool1:KaChing!!! :cool1::cool1::cool1:

:woohoo: Out Standing!!!!!! :woohoo:
This is such excellent news Liesa!!! I'm so blessed by this news!

[All7OfUs]

Oh my gosh!!!

Congratulations!!!!!!

:cheer2: :dance3: :woohoo: :cheer2: :yay: :cheer2: http://i398.photobucket.com/albums/pp67/christine7273/f809de82.gif

:woohoo: Out Standing!!!!!! :woohoo:
This is such excellent news Liesa!!! I'm so blessed by this news!

Hey Ladies!! Isn't this so great?!! Now he just need to pass the physical fitness test and maintain a 2.0- neither of which should be a problem. I'm so stoked!:woohoo:

[that's nice]

BIG, HUGE, SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS NEWS!!!

We just got word that our son, is being offered an ROTC scholarship for full tuition, fees, books and a whopping stipend for both his top schools!!!! WOOT!

:cool1::cool1::cool1:KaChing!!! :cool1::cool1::cool1:

That is awesome!!!!! Congratulations to your son.. and you too!!!!!!


(does this mean more Disney money? LOL:lmao:)

[Pollito916]

:cheer2: Wow, that's AWESOME news! Congratulations!! :cheer2::cheer2:

[glennbo123]

BIG, HUGE, SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS NEWS!!!

We just got word that our son, is being offered an ROTC scholarship for full tuition, fees, books and a whopping stipend for both his top schools!!!! WOOT!

:cool1::cool1::cool1:KaChing!!! :cool1::cool1::cool1:

That's awesome! What a weight off of your shoulders, I'm sure.

[All7OfUs]

That is awesome!!!!! Congratulations to your son.. and you too!!!!!!


(does this mean more Disney money? LOL:lmao:)

Thanks, Tim!! (and doy ;))

:cheer2: Wow, that's AWESOME news! Congratulations!! :cheer2::cheer2:

Yippee!! He's worked so hard for this!!

[Pollito916]

That is awesome!!!!! Congratulations to your son.. and you too!!!!!!


(does this mean more Disney money? LOL:lmao:)

And isn't it totally awesome that we both used the word awesome at the exact same time! :laughing: ;)

[All7OfUs]

That's awesome! What a weight off of your shoulders, I'm sure.

It is a huge weight off!! I had NO IDEA how much went into getting these kids into school nowadays!! The time factor (and emotional energy) is enormous!!! With this and some grants to pick up room and board, we could end up paying very little! :yay: Which makes more for #'s 2 and 3 who are only a year and 3 behind. Who AREN"T, by the way, going into the ROTC!!!

[MainStMandy]

BIG, HUGE, SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS NEWS!!!

We just got word that our son, is being offered an ROTC scholarship for full tuition, fees, books and a whopping stipend for both his top schools!!!! WOOT!

:cool1::cool1::cool1:KaChing!!! :cool1::cool1::cool1:


YAY!!! That's amazing news!!! :cool1:

[tinkgurl]

That's awesome news! Congrats to your son! :cheer2:

[All7OfUs]

YAY!!! That's amazing news!!! :cool1:

That's awesome news! Congrats to your son! :cheer2:

I wonder if Shades of Green is in my future!? :confused3:rolleyes1

[Connie96]

OMG! Wonderful news about the scholarship! Congrats to you, your DS and the whole family!

[jenb1023]

:banana::cheer2::woohoo::cool1::yay: Congrats to DS and to you and DH! How exciting!

[All7OfUs]

OMG! Wonderful news about the scholarship! Congrats to you, your DS and the whole family!

:banana::cheer2::woohoo::cool1::yay: Congrats to DS and to you and DH! How exciting!

Thanks, Ladies! I"m one happy and proud Mama! Now all the homeschooling and hard work will hopefully pay off! :cool1:

[Connie96]

Ya know, I'm looking at the clock and I'm thinking that if you continue keeping hours like THIS, you won't even be jet-lagged at all when you come back here! So, there's your answer - start staying up later and sleeping later a little bit every day until you're on Oregon time. It's home school! Who says you can't do that at night and sleep during the day!? :laughing:

[eliz991]

BIG, HUGE, SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS NEWS!!!

We just got word that our son, is being offered an ROTC scholarship for full tuition, fees, books and a whopping stipend for both his top schools!!!! WOOT!

:cool1::cool1::cool1:KaChing!!! :cool1::cool1::cool1:

Awesome! Congrats to him!!!

[All7OfUs]

Ya know, I'm looking at the clock and I'm thinking that if you continue keeping hours like THIS, you won't even be jet-lagged at all when you come back here! So, there's your answer - start staying up later and sleeping later a little bit every day until you're on Oregon time. It's home school! Who says you can't do that at night and sleep during the day!? :laughing:

So true!!! :lmao::lmao: You wouldn't even believe the hours we keep sometimes (esp. with DH is away :rolleyes1) We're up by 9:00, though. ;)

Awesome! Congrats to him!!!

Great news, isn't it!?? I hope he can pass the Physical Fitness test though!! He takes that next fall.

[eandesmom]

I can't believe you are still up!

WOOT on the scholarship! That is HUGE!

:dancer:
:dancer::dancer:
:dancer::dancer::dancer:
:dancer::dancer::dancer::dancer:
:dancer::dancer::dancer::dancer::dancer:
:dancer::dancer::dancer::dancer::dancer::dancer:

[that's nice]

And isn't it totally awesome that we both used the word awesome at the exact same time! :laughing: ;)

TOTALLY AWESOME!:lmao::lmao:



I guess we were thinking the same thing... that it is awesome! :goodvibes

[maroo]

BIG, HUGE, SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS NEWS!!!

We just got word that our son, is being offered an ROTC scholarship for full tuition, fees, books and a whopping stipend for both his top schools!!!! WOOT!

:cool1::cool1::cool1:KaChing!!! :cool1::cool1::cool1:

WOO HOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!


:woohoo: :dance3: :cheer2: :woohoo: :dance3: :cool1: :woohoo: :dance3: :cheer2:



And way to go MOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :teacher:

[jenbear123]

Wowzers! What an achievement for your son. That should take care of everything.... and leave you with more spare change for Disney ;)

[Diamondintheruff]

So pleased for your whole family. Cause it took the whole family to make your son the wonderful person he has become.

[MKBekka]

It's awful that she gets to go and you don't...maybe she'll bring you back a nice souvenir..:thumbsup2 Hint. Hint.

She's actually already asked me what I want!

Forget a future husband! I know a nice family in Pennsylvania that would love to have someone help to cook and clean. ;) A daughter that is smart enough to be on the DIS and goes to school, cooks and cleans - Liesa you are a very lucky mom! :thumbsup2

Ok, how much is the pay? :lmao: would it include a trip to WDW?

I've got her covered! I can't, well, yes I can tell you what I had planned for her. We all, but especially Bek, were attracted to those beautiful masks in Italy. I am really hoping I can find a pin of one of the designs for her. Does anyone know if they make those?? Anyone? Anyone?

:lmao: She is THE MOST wonderful daughter. I know she will make a very good homemaker and nurse someday. Now... how to pay for college... I know rent her out! :rotfl2::rotfl2: She does a pretty mean choco cake and doughnuts to die for! :cloud9:


AWW! Thanks Mom! you could rent me out to jenb! :rotfl:

OOHH MAROOOOOO!! what gives? you've only posted once!! We miss you!

[All7OfUs]

I can't believe you are still up!



I know- it's insane! I managed to hit the hay around 2:30 and snuggled up with my little girl. She must have been having some funky dreams, because she at one point said, "Vermont". :confused3 Vermont?? I don't even know where she heard that word?? Maybe White Christmas?? Monopoly?? Expept my kids call that "Vomit Ave."

TOTALLY AWESOME!:lmao::lmao:

I guess we were thinking the same thing... that it is awesome!

Awesome is such and awesome word. :laughing:


WOO HOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!


:woohoo: :dance3: :cheer2: :woohoo: :cool1: :woohoo: :dance3: :cheer2:



And way to go MOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :teacher:

Things really seem to be falling in place for him. Now he has to KEEP the scholarship by keeping a 2.0 GPA. Do people really fall below this?? :confused3

Wowzers! What an achievement for your son. That should take care of everything.... and leave you with more spare change for Disney ;)

or a computer for him, and community college for Bek, and actually, Mom is thinking of going back to school herself. :rolleyes1 I think I could get through nursing school in a couple of years. :confused3

So pleased for your whole family. Cause it took the whole family to make your son the wonderful person he has become.

You are right, it really takes a group effort in getting the kids ready to be out the door! :grouphug:


Ok, how much is the pay? :lmao: would it include a trip to WDW?

AWW! Thanks Mom! you could rent me out to jenb! :rotfl:

OOHH MAROOOOOO!! what gives? you've only posted once!! We miss you!

That's MY girl!! :lmao:

yeah, maroo!! Are you getting better?? Ready to tell us who you are?? popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::popcorn::

[eandesmom]

I know- it's insane! I managed to hit the hay around 2:30 and snuggled up with my little girl. She must have been having some funky dreams, because she at one point said, "Vermont". :confused3 Vermont?? I don't even know where she heard that word?? Maybe White Christmas?? Monopoly?? Expept my kids call that "Vomit Ave."

Awesome is such and awesome word. :laughing:

Things really seem to be falling in place for him. Now he has to KEEP the scholarship by keeping a 2.0 GPA. Do people really fall below this?? :confused3

or a computer for him, and community college for Bek, and actually, Mom is thinking of going back to school herself. :rolleyes1 I think I could get through nursing school in a couple of years. :confused3

You are right, it really takes a group effort in getting the kids ready to be out the door! :grouphug:




Vomit Ave

:rotfl2::rotfl2:

I would think he'd have to work hard to bring it down that low but then again...Taylor seems to be managing it with zero effort at all.

:confused3

It does take a group effort to get kids out the door. Need to invest in cloning!

Nursing School? What a GREAT idea!

All of it. Is.

Awesome.

[jordanyosh]

BIG, HUGE, SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS NEWS!!!

We just got word that our son, is being offered an ROTC scholarship for full tuition, fees, books and a whopping stipend for both his top schools!!!! WOOT!

:cool1::cool1::cool1:KaChing!!! :cool1::cool1::cool1:

wow! congrats!

[jordanyosh]

Saves you a grip o money! He must be smart.

[All7OfUs]

Vomit Ave

:rotfl2::rotfl2:

I would think he'd have to work hard to bring it down that low but then again...Taylor seems to be managing it with zero effort at all.
It does take a group effort to get kids out the door. Need to invest in cloning!

Nursing School? What a GREAT idea!

All of it. Is.

Awesome.

For some reason Baltic is now officially BLATIC and Kentucky is Kentuuuuuhky. Do you play with Free Parking that builds up in the middle??

wow! congrats!

Saves you a grip o money! He must be smart.


Thanks, Jordy! But as for smart?? Well, to get in is, apparently not that easy, but CHOOSING to go in--- well.... ????

[eandesmom]

For some reason Baltic is now officially BLATIC and Kentucky is Kentuuuuuhky. Do you play with Free Parking that builds up in the middle??


Yep! Though we haven't played in eons....

[All7OfUs]

Let' start off your day with something tasty. This is what dinner looked like when I started writing:

MMMMmmmm... BBQ Chicken Pizza!

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/miscfromcamera154.jpg

Ever walk into a room and just KNOW? Know you fit in and belonged?? Sensed that those in the room could totally relate to your life and dreams and goals and style? After sharing a little bit, you discover you share many of the same passions, pastimes, and worldview?

It was just like this the first time Soldier #1 met Soldier #3. It was instant friendship, that began as Mike (DH) and I joined a Bible Study group. It started off with a few dinners at each others’ houses, but grew into the kind of friendship in which included daily phone visits, weekly lunches and annual camping trips. We still laugh over the time when we were camping and discovered Bek eating someone’s leftover beans off of the grate where campers poured their waste water!! Oh, the stories I could tell!

She was at the birth of #3, she watched my kids when #4 got his thumb cut off, she and her husband (our pastor) visited us here on the Steppe, and she drove the boat for the lot of us at Priest Lake when we vacationed together. If you were to put her 5, and my 5, on a time line, we discovered that they are timed so evenly that one mother could have had them all. Perfectly staggered.

Then we left. We don’t talk as regularly, but the friendship is just as strong. Since then, she’s gone back to work full-time, and was elected a school board member. 2 of hers have gone off to school, and 2 of mine are also about to leave the nest. Life is not the same as when we said good-bye the first time, but we can still call each other and laugh at the same jokes, and wrestle through our issues together.

Last year when I was pondering who would be the perfect person to share a Disney vacation, LeeAnn was the first person to come to mind. She loves to stay up late, wants as much out of every day as I do, doesn’t love parades or shopping (we will a little), and is flexible and game for just about anything. When I called around Christmas of last year, there was no doubt in her mind that she would love to go, and immediately said yes!!

Coming up with a 3rd person was a bit harder. Several names came to mind, but there was always something that whispered no. One is kinda a whiner about her marriage, another doesn’t like to stay up late, and still another couldn’t leave her kids. I am not looking for perfection, but some of these were big enough issues to stand in the way of asking. I finally settled on a dear friend of mine named Julie, but they are in the middle of turning their large piece of acreage into a Christian retreat center and event place, for things like weddings and parties. She initially said yes, but after a month or so, had to back out. Her business venture just wasn’t pulling in enough money to swing a trip to Orlando.

What to do? What to do?? Who shares the same passion for spending a week at Disney and likes to tour somewhat like me? The same little voice was whispering, “how about maroo??” I had been following her TRs for quite some time, and had come to really admire her great big heart and the way she brings her faith and enthusiasm into all she does. So, on a whim, I PM’d her, and said I was looking for someone to spend a week with us next fall. She wrote back and sent her phone number, and the next day, we talked for quite a while on the phone. It was the same thing- like walking into a room, and “just knowing”. She pretty much told me within a week that she’d love to go with us, and that was that. To date, I believe Maroo and LeeAnn have only “met” once through e-mail. But both trust me that the 3 of us will get along famously.

The rest is history- and history in the making.

And now you have the long story of how Strangers have, and are, becoming Friends.



Ready to eat??!! (Of course not, you're just waking up! But this is what we just sat down to:

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/miscfromcamera155.jpg


Click here for: Another Ranking Upgrade- The Colonels of the Belle Battalion (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35319772&postcount=208)

[Minnie&Nana]

Sooo..does every update have to make me get teary? :grouphug:

If I don't get back today....Blessings on your day!

(BTW, when is your day...what is the time difference, please?)

[All7OfUs]

Sooo..does every update have to make me get teary? :grouphug:

If I don't get back today....Blessings on your day!

(BTW, when is your day...what is the time difference, please?)

NO! Only once in a while! Sometimes they will make you laugh until you leak! :rotfl:

It depends on where you are, but from Central Time, it's exactly 12 hours. Have a super-duper day!!

[MeMom]

Congratulations to your son! That is HUGE!

I know what you mean about a good friend. I have a friend who I worked with at McDonald's when we were teenagers. We've remained friends for about 35 years - through marriages, seven kids between us, one divorce and one almost divorce, and a couple of moves to other places. Because of our different schedules, we might not talk for many weeks, but when we do, it's just like family. She's the only friend I would share a room with in Disney World, because I would never let anyone else hear my snoring. She's used to her husband's snoring, so mine doesn't bother her. It's nice to have those kinds of very special friends.

As for Maroo, I think she would be fun for you to travel with at any time. I just know she's as down-to-earth and kind as anyone you'll ever meet. And she kind of likes Disney. :)

[Millie12591]

Hey Mama! I'm up early, but not up late. ;) I actually went to bed at midnight but was up at four, laid in bed until about 5:30 and finally just got up. :rolleyes: Oh well, what do you do? :confused3 Tonight I think I'll take half of a sleeping aid and see if that helps with staying asleep.
I don't get why I didn't stay asleep?! I only had about 3 and half hours of sleep from the night (technically morning :laughing:) before and about a two hour nap during the day (had to I was about to pass out)....Oh well, it is what it is. ;)

Are you still living in the glow of your baby boy? :cloud9: I know I would! Ty got in to one of the colleges he applied for, but we haven't hear back about the two biggies he really wants......well, he really only wants to go to one because of the business school there. He wants to go into international business. Whew! It wears me out just thinking about all the languages he'll be learning, but for him it's up his alley....he loves learning languages.
Mmmmmmmmm, looks yummy!!! How hard was it to get the cheese?

[jenb1023]

Ok, how much is the pay? :lmao: would it include a trip to WDW?

AWW! Thanks Mom! you could rent me out to jenb! :rotfl:

Well, I don't know how much the pay would be but my DD has been to WDW four times in 2 1/2 years (Apr 07, Jan 08, Nov 08, Oct 09) so a trip is a given. Plus, if you like rides, we live about 20 minutes from Hersheypark and get season passes every year. :thumbsup2 It's no WDW but we enjoy it.

Liesa - I think your choice of trip companions sounds perfect. I am sure everyone will get along famously. And, having also met Mary in person, I will affirm that she is good people and will be an easy touring companion.

[glennbo123]

Lookit the mound 'o cheese on that pizza!

I guess it took me longer to read through that post than I realized, because when I was done, the pizza was cooked. ;)

I know you three will have a great time together.

[MRYPPNS]

I'm days and pages late but I'm here!!!

[All7OfUs]

Congratulations to your son! That is HUGE!

I know what you mean about a good friend. I have a friend who I worked with at McDonald's when we were teenagers. We've remained friends for about 35 years - through marriages, seven kids between us, one divorce and one almost divorce, and a couple of moves to other places. Because of our different schedules, we might not talk for many weeks, but when we do, it's just like family. She's the only friend I would share a room with in Disney World, because I would never let anyone else hear my snoring. She's used to her husband's snoring, so mine doesn't bother her. It's nice to have those kinds of very special friends.

As for Maroo, I think she would be fun for you to travel with at any time. I just know she's as down-to-earth and kind as anyone you'll ever meet. And she kind of likes Disney. :)

A close friend is a beautiful thing! I really am blessed to have one that I can call at any hour and share from my heart. maroo is becoming like that too! Except I woke her up the other morning- sorry, sweetie!! :flower3:

I hope I don't snore! But if I do, hmmmm.... ?? We haven't thought about that. :confused3

I'd say anyone with a TIW card and an AP "kind of likes Disney". ;):rotfl2:

Hey Mama! I'm up early, but not up late. ;) I actually went to bed at midnight but was up at four, laid in bed until about 5:30 and finally just got up. :rolleyes: Oh well, what do you do? :confused3 Tonight I think I'll take half of a sleeping aid and see if that helps with staying asleep.
I don't get why I didn't stay asleep?! I only had about 3 and half hours of sleep from the night (technically morning :laughing:) before and about a two hour nap during the day (had to I was about to pass out)....Oh well, it is what it is. ;)

Are you still living in the glow of your baby boy? :cloud9: I know I would! Ty got in to one of the colleges he applied for, but we haven't hear back about the two biggies he really wants......well, he really only wants to go to one because of the business school there. He wants to go into international business. Whew! It wears me out just thinking about all the languages he'll be learning, but for him it's up his alley....he loves learning languages.
Mmmmmmmmm, looks yummy!!! How hard was it to get the cheese?


You sure need to get some more sleep! I really hope this whole thing will turn around for you very soon!

Yes!! I am def. very excited for him!! There is so NO way we could pay for him to go to school at a full price, and we are thrilled that he won't have to take out any loans. :woohoo:

I guess some schools don't give acceptances until pretty late. We actually called a few times about his status, and they just told us over the phone. It might be worth a phone call to ask about the status of his appie.

Well, I don't know how much the pay would be but my DD has been to WDW four times in 2 1/2 years (Apr 07, Jan 08, Nov 08, Oct 09) so a trip is a given. Plus, if you like rides, we live about 20 minutes from Hersheypark and get season passes every year. :thumbsup2 It's no WDW but we enjoy it.

Liesa - I think your choice of trip companions sounds perfect. I am sure everyone will get along famously. And, having also met Mary in person, I will affirm that she is good people and will be an easy touring companion.

Hmmmm..... she does make awfully good doughnuts (which we're going to fry up right now). I'm not sure I want to let my resident doughnut maker go.

We're all pretty easy-going, and that makes for a good partnership.



Lookit the mound 'o cheese on that pizza!

I guess it took me longer to read through that post than I realized, because when I was done, the pizza was cooked. ;)

I know you three will have a great time together.

I like my pizza extra cheesy!! And we always put our cheese on top, with all the goodies neatly tucked underneath like little babies at 8:00.



I'm days and pages late but I'm here!!!

Hooray!! Heidi is here!! By the way, I borrowed one of your pictures for my wallpaper this week. The one of the cart in France with the bottles and jars of goodies. (that was yours, right?)

[If U Had Wings]

Congratulations to your son! That's a fantastic achievement. :cool1:

[All7OfUs]

Congratulations to your son! That's a fantastic achievement. :cool1:

Thanks, Wings!! Things are really coming together for him. :goodvibes

[MainStMandy]

Aww what a great update! I love my Dis Friends...it's good to know there are other's out there that feel the same!!

And dinner looked YUM!!

[eandesmom]

what a lovely update! I feel like we "know" Maroo but not soldier #3 so I loved the recap.

And oh that pizza looked YUMMY!

Makes me want to make pizza tonight. :goodvibes

[carissanboys]

What wonderful news for your son!!!! :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

That pizza looks amazing!!! It looks like you make your own crust? We do too. What kind of pan did you use? Yummmmmm!

How wonderful to have such special friendships and to be able to share a trip to Disney with them. :goodvibes

[Sleepingbooty]

BIG, HUGE, SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS NEWS!!!

We just got word that our son, is being offered an ROTC scholarship for full tuition, fees, books and a whopping stipend for both his top schools!!!! WOOT!

:cool1::cool1::cool1:KaChing!!! :cool1::cool1::cool1:

Oh WOW!!!! That is incredible news, Liesa! What a blessing for your family. You must be so proud of your son. ROTC is a really cool thing.:thumbsup2

I loved this last update you just did. Your friends are lucky to have you, too!

Oh, and that pizza? Well, let me just wipe the drool off my keyboard while I flush in shame at the thought of the DiGiorno I served last night;)

[jenb1023]

How could I forget to mention the pizza?!?! It looks great! Sorry Bekka - I think I want your mom to move in with me to cook! :rotfl:

[that's nice]

Loved the story. Does LeeAnn DIS? I feel like she posted a few times on the 'other' PTR thread... or am I wrong once again? :confused3


QUOTE<<We still laugh over the time when we were camping and discovered Bek eating someone’s leftover beans off of the grate where campers poured their waste water!!>>

UMMMMMM... that is pretty bad! :lmao:

Your pizza looks amazing! I wouldn't mind eating a piece of that right now! popcorn::

[MKBekka]

How could I forget to mention the pizza?!?! It looks great! Sorry Bekka - I think I want your mom to move in with me to cook! :rotfl:

Actually, I made it!! :goodvibes Well, it was a joint effort. I did the crust, Mom did the sauce, and the others did the cutting of toppings.

I did dessert tonight too- doughnuts.

[All7OfUs]

Aww what a great update! I love my Dis Friends...it's good to know there are other's out there that feel the same!!

And dinner looked YUM!!

I have made so many wonderful friends here. Disney is only the starting point of how these friendships have grown. :goodvibes

It WAS yum! and there's even enough for tomorrow's lunch! :cloud9:

what a lovely update! I feel like we "know" Maroo but not soldier #3 so I loved the recap.

And oh that pizza looked YUMMY!

Makes me want to make pizza tonight. :goodvibes

I was afraid this might be "old hat" to those who were on the old thread too, but I think there's enough new in there to add some spice. Our hubbies went hiking yesterday in the Oregon Cascades. They trekked 8 miles and climbed 1/2 a mile!! :cool1: I think they like having some manly-man "reconnection" time as old friends.

Should I call it flatbread to be more fancy??!! I pretended I was in the Cali Grill :rolleyes1 I had to close my eyes pretty tight. :lmao:


What wonderful news for your son!!!! :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

That pizza looks amazing!!! It looks like you make your own crust? We do too. What kind of pan did you use? Yummmmmm!

How wonderful to have such special friendships and to be able to share a trip to Disney with them. :goodvibes

Bek makes the crust now, and I"m in charge of sauces. Mikki cuts veggies and grates cheese. So it's definitely a joint effort! :thumbsup2

I love having ladies who are close enough to share most anything with.

Oh WOW!!!! That is incredible news, Liesa! What a blessing for your family. You must be so proud of your son. ROTC is a really cool thing.:thumbsup2

I loved this last update you just did. Your friends are lucky to have you, too!

Oh, and that pizza? Well, let me just wipe the drool off my keyboard while I flush in shame at the thought of the DiGiorno I served last night;)

I hope he will really hone some leadership skills and get some really great training. It'd be nice if he could stay out of a war zone, but that's part of the trade-off.

Thanks, Rebecca! As you know, friendships take hard work on both sides. And some are easier to sustain than others.

Sorry for short-circuiting your keyboard!! After all the problems you've had with your computer, you certainly don't need antoher one!! I'll give a warning next time! ;) DiGiorno is fine. I'm certain our family will be seeing a fair number of those during our transition back. :rolleyes1

[All7OfUs]

How could I forget to mention the pizza?!?! It looks great! Sorry Bekka - I think I want your mom to move in with me to cook! :rotfl:

Ha! She's even better than me in a few things now. I can do breads, but really don't love to. So she's the resident baker now.

Loved the story. Does LeeAnn DIS? I feel like she posted a few times on the 'other' PTR thread... or am I wrong once again? :confused3


QUOTE<<We still laugh over the time when we were camping and discovered Bek eating someone’s leftover beans off of the grate where campers poured their waste water!!>>

UMMMMMM... that is pretty bad! :lmao:

Your pizza looks amazing! I wouldn't mind eating a piece of that right now! popcorn::

Yes, she does, but not likely very much at all from here on out. Her screen name is ThePreachersWife. I bug her once in a while about posting, but between school board duties and working full-time, she's pretty busy. I will send a link to this last post though. I think she'd enjoy reading it.

It was a pretty gross incident. But we have lots more of even grosser ones- like the time I was changing my daughter's diaper and my back was turned. My son snuck up behind me, saw the diaper, and popped a poo to taste it. Disgusting, but true. :scared1:

I'd send some pizza, but I'm sure you just lost your appetite! :lmao:


Actually, I made it!! :goodvibes Well, it was a joint effort. I did the crust, Mom did the sauce, and the others did the cutting of toppings.

I did dessert tonight too- doughnuts.

You did the crust. Granted that's the main part, but it WAS a joint effort! ;)

The doughnuts were scrumtumptious!!! Especially tasty with cinnamon glaze, I might add!

[Beana9802]

:goodvibesI'm so pumped for your son! That's fantastic news! :) :cool1::cheer2::dance3:

[All7OfUs]

:goodvibesI'm so pumped for your son! That's fantastic news! :) :cool1::cheer2::dance3:

Thanks, so much!! I was just on the phone with my parents (whom he will live with from June to August) and they are just as excited!! Now, to keep those grades up!! :teacher:

[eliz991]

Hey Mama! I'm up early, but not up late. ;) I actually went to bed at midnight but was up at four, laid in bed until about 5:30 and finally just got up. :rolleyes: Oh well, what do you do? :confused3 Tonight I think I'll take half of a sleeping aid and see if that helps with staying asleep.
I don't get why I didn't stay asleep?! I only had about 3 and half hours of sleep from the night (technically morning :laughing:) before and about a two hour nap during the day (had to I was about to pass out)....Oh well, it is what it is. ;)



Camille, I know you are a couple of years younger than me but in the last few years I have lost my ability to stay asleep. I've never been a great sleeper, but I used to just have a hard time falling asleep. Now I can't fall asleep or stay asleep. :confused3 I'm like you, what are you going to do? It's terrible to feel so tired though but not be able to sleep. Luckily they say we need less sleep as we get older.

Liesa (I have no idea if I spelled that right), that pizza looks delicious! It must be almost lunch time...and thanks for the story about how the 3 of you hooked up, I can't wait to hear how much fun you have on your trip!

[All7OfUs]

Camille, I know you are a couple of years younger than me but in the last few years I have lost my ability to stay asleep. I've never been a great sleeper, but I used to just have a hard time falling asleep. Now I can't fall asleep or stay asleep. :confused3 I'm like you, what are you going to do? It's terrible to feel so tired though but not be able to sleep. Luckily they say we need less sleep as we get older.

Liesa (I have no idea if I spelled that right), that pizza looks delicious! It must be almost lunch time...and thanks for the story about how the 3 of you hooked up, I can't wait to hear how much fun you have on your trip!

I also had terrible insomnia when I was pregnant with my 3 and 4 babies. Just.couldn't.sleep. I got A LOT of praying done, let me tell ya. But I was also a crabby mess too. It eventually worked itself out, so maybe it's just a hormonal phase or something?? I really, really hope so!

AWww, thanks! It tasted super good. In fact, it sorta reminded me that I want to go back to both Cali Grill and WGPE menus and look at them again. Decisions, decisions...

MY DH thinks I"m nuts to be going on a trip and spending a week with someone I've only met once. Might be crazy, but I trust Mary than most people I've been friends with for years. :love:

[All7OfUs]

Totally just learned how to find all the posts by one person and multi-quote them. thanks for being my guinea pig on that new skill. :)


Wowzers! What an achievement for your son. That should take care of everything.... and leave you with more spare change for Disney ;)

I just found out that financial aid is saying that with grants and such, we'll only be responsible for about $1,200 a semester. That's totally do-able. :woohoo:

Uh oh. Change in plans... well here's my two cents:

I have not been to Disney during F&W but based on what Bubba tells me, it gets very crowded at Epcot. It wasn't crowded all the time, but it's definitely busier than normal.
Whatever you choose, just be sure you don't lose that free dining! I'm sure you'll make the right choice. :teeth:

Yup! Likely a change in plans coming your way... :scared: ARe you surprised??!!! :lmao:

We won't lose FD though, nor our Poly PIN!!

Let the show begin! :woohoo:

Not sure if I welcomed you or not--- so, :wizard: I hereby dub you one of the Knightesses of the Thread. Sounds good to me. :dance3:

[Sleepingbooty]

It was a pretty gross incident. But we have lots more of even grosser ones- like the time I was changing my daughter's diaper and my back was turned. My son snuck up behind me, saw the diaper, and popped a poo to taste it. Disgusting, but true. :scared1:


Ahh, the joys of baby/toddlerhood. I remember when Jenna was a year old, and her cousin Danielle was 2 and potty training. Dani's mom and grandma were cheering her for pooing in the potty chair for the first time. They didn't notice that Jenna had come into the bathroom and as they were getting Dani cleaned off, Jenna reached in and.... grabbed the prize, and ran off with it. I was washing dishes in the kitchen nearby, so I didn't see this. All I could here was the cheers for Dani turning into panicked shrieks mixed with hysterical laughter. Eventually they got the poo back from Jenna. Dani was crying - upset than Jenna stole her poo. I think we scrubbed Jenna's hand and fingernails for a half hour - then we put them both in the tub. I wish I had pictures!

[All7OfUs]

"The Prize"- Oh that was rich, Rebecca!!! Very funny!! :lmao:

I guess it's gotta happen to every toddler at some point!! :rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

[disneyaddicted]

That's such a great news about your son. I'm really happy for all of you.

[All7OfUs]

That's such a great news about your son. I'm really happy for all of you.


Thanks! It was definitely a happy dance sort of moment! By the way, as I was writing the last update about my friends, I was thinking of you and Marzi. It was such a blessing to read your account of how you hooked up after all those years!

[Pollito916]

We still laugh over the time when we were camping and discovered Bek eating someone’s leftover beans off of the grate where campers poured their waste water!!

It was a pretty gross incident. But we have lots more of even grosser ones- like the time I was changing my daughter's diaper and my back was turned. My son snuck up behind me, saw the diaper, and popped a poo to taste it. Disgusting, but true. :scared1:

Umm, do you feed your children? ;):rotfl2: j/k - my DS will eat old cheerios from under the couch, but we haven't bought cheerios for 6 months! :eek:

That pizza looks delicious btw, I only wish I had opened this thread BEFORE DH got home from the grocery store. This was already the 2nd time I sent him in 3 days (he made homemade eggs benedict on Tuesday! :woohoo:), so I'm not sure I could convince him to make a 3rd trip. :sad2:

[maroo]

As for Maroo, I think she would be fun for you to travel with at any time. I just know she's as down-to-earth and kind as anyone you'll ever meet. And she kind of likes Disney. :)

:hug:

You are so sweet!

And kind of likes Disney - :laughing:

Liesa - I think your choice of trip companions sounds perfect. I am sure everyone will get along famously. And, having also met Mary in person, I will affirm that she is good people and will be an easy touring companion.

Thanks, Jen! :) I think we are going to have a great time!! :)

A close friend is a beautiful thing! I really am blessed to have one that I can call at any hour and share from my heart. maroo is becoming like that too! Except I woke her up the other morning- sorry, sweetie!! :flower3:



You can call me anytime! Day or night! But as you can tell, if you want to get me up, you gotta call me at least twice! :thumbsup2

I was telling Lisa (not to be confused with you...but I guess you don't get confused with yourself!) the other day that I think it is interesting that I talk to you more than I do some of my closest nearby friends. You seem to check on me more when I am sick, too. :rolleyes1

I told my friend Sarah the other day that she needs to move back to South Africa (she is back in Jackson) so that we can talk more often! I never see her or even hear from her now that she is right here! :confused3

MY DH thinks I"m nuts to be going on a trip and spending a week with someone I've only met once. Might be crazy, but I trust Mary than most people I've been friends with for years. :love:


I totally agree with this! I, too, trust Liesa like we have known each other forever! :hug:

[jenbear123]

What a great "getting to know each other story" :goodvibes It's amazing how complete strangers can meet on a large online community like the DIS. Then even go as far as planning a trip together? Amazing. With so much bad press about online stalkers, etc. this sort of thing is few and far between these days. :sad2: It's comforting to know that maybe one day when I have no one to go on a Disney trip with, I can always turn to the DIS :)

That pizza looks amazing. Oh my gosh. Please invite me next time! It'll only take me a half a day to get there :lmao:

Oh and thanks for dubbing me one of the Knightesses :laughing:

[All7OfUs]

Umm, do you feed your children? ;):rotfl2: j/k - my DS will eat old cheerios from under the couch, but we haven't bought cheerios for 6 months! :eek:

That pizza looks delicious btw, I only wish I had opened this thread BEFORE DH got home from the grocery store. This was already the 2nd time I sent him in 3 days (he made homemade eggs benedict on Tuesday! :woohoo:), so I'm not sure I could convince him to make a 3rd trip. :sad2:

nah. Only when they're looking somewhat thin. :lmao::lmao: j/k Seriously, our kids are GREAT eaters! One daughter won't eat raw tomatoes or mushrooms, Bek won't eat sushi, and can't eat eggs very much. Other than that they will eat ANYTHING!! I would be confident taking them to ANY restaurant - Thai, French, whatever, and they would eat it. We were very careful to only offer what we were eating from as soon as they could sit at the table- there was never a second choice.

We always had two things for dinner: This or NOT.



You can call me anytime! Day or night! But as you can tell, if you want to get me up, you gotta call me at least twice! :thumbsup2


I totally agree with this! I, too, trust Liesa like we have known each other forever! :hug:

OK!! I will. And do. :rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

Seems that way- sorta an instant click. :dance3:

[All7OfUs]

It's comforting to know that maybe one day when I have no one to go on a Disney trip with, I can always turn to the DIS :)

That pizza looks amazing. Oh my gosh. Please invite me next time! It'll only take me a half a day to get there :lmao:

Oh and thanks for dubbing me one of the Knightesses :laughing:

Pick me! Pick me!!!! :idea:

Actually, it would take you minimum 36 hours to get here. I"m afraid the pizza would definitely be gone by then!

Your welcome! Wanna storm the castle with us??

[Minnie&Nana]

How did I miss that pizza?? My gosh, it looks sooo good!!! The donuts sound yummy too!! It's a good thing you all live so far, or me thinks you'd have some DIS'ers showing up for dinner now and then!
:rotfl:

I've gone to WDW a few times with friends I met on the DIS and another smaller board. It was one of those things with one friend where we met on the DIS and we were posting on the same threads, then we pm'd and then chatted on the phone - by that time we knew we were already friends and decided to attend MouseFest (happened every December for a few years, except last yr) together - she became one of my dearest friends ever now.

Others I met that same year on a Disney board, then in person a couple of us shared a room the following April and so it went.

There are such wonderful folks on the Disney boards and being here we already have something major in common - the rest seems to fall together perfectly. :)

You all are going to have such a fabulous trip!

[All7OfUs]

How did I miss that pizza?? My gosh, it looks sooo good!!! The donuts sound yummy too!! It's a good thing you all live so far, or me thinks you'd have some DIS'ers showing up for dinner now and then!
:rotfl:

I've gone to WDW a few times with friends I met on the DIS and another smaller board. It was one of those things with one friend where we met on the DIS and we were posting on the same threads, then we pm'd and then chatted on the phone - by that time we knew we were already friends and decided to attend MouseFest (happened every December for a few years, except last yr) together - she became one of my dearest friends ever now.



You are more than welcome to dinner anytime! Really!! We even have a sand dune nearby that's pretty fun to run down. :lmao:

That's exactly how it's been with maroo, and now several others of you ( you know who you are). I'm loving having so many friends who "get it". It's also nice having a couple of daughters who 'get it' too ;)

It's been another wonderful evening (for me), but I need to haul it to bed.

G'nite all!! :cool2:

[KathyRN137]

:cheer2: Sending out a big "Congratulations!" to your son!! :cheer2:


Kathy

[jenbear123]

pick me! Pick me!!!! :idea:

don't worry. You're definitely at the top of the list if i ever need a travel buddy :thumbsup2

actually, it would take you minimum 36 hours to get here. I"m afraid the pizza would definitely be gone by then!

:faint:

Your welcome! Wanna storm the castle with us??

charge!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Pollito916]

We always had two things for dinner: This or NOT.


That's the same thing I serve for dinner! Unfortunately, DS often chooses NOT eating. :sad2:

[disney<333]

Hmm. I know you have had your current dates for a while but switching to October may be better for you in the end. Just wait until you're marching through AK and it's 95 degrees then we'll see who like the heat!:lmao:
We usually have a cold front the second week of October. I think October would be a little better because then you would have time to get situated and really have a few weeks to adjust to a completely different time zone! When you make ADRs I would just make them for both sets of dates and then just cancel one.
When I click on the new link in your sig. it leads me to the old thread still.
Dinner looks really good! I'm coming over!:rotfl2: I'm sick so we just had Boston Market for dinner.
Have a good night!.... Well day for you it's night for me.:goodvibes

[All7OfUs]

:cheer2: Sending out a big "Congratulations!" to your son!! :cheer2:


Kathy

Thanks, Kathy! I spent an hour on the phone with the ROTC Commander in Kentucky and he was so, so nice. He answered a lot of my questions about the hows and whens, and basically Andrew will be getting a free ride. PLUS a stipend of $350 a month!! Basically they are PAYING him to go to school! :woohoo: BUT he must maintain a 3.0 for the room and board. :guilty:

charge!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Images of my Disney visa card come to mind. :lmao:

That's the same thing I serve for dinner! Unfortunately, DS often chooses NOT eating. :sad2:

Don't worry, if he's hungry enough he will, and in the end, he be able to eat all kinds of food, and not have to stick with mac cheese and nuggets. My doctor told me once, that she's never heard of a kid yet, who's gotten sick or starved if nutrutious, tasty food is available. ;) (I used to worry a lot about if they were eating enough)

Hmm. I know you have had your current dates for a while but switching to October may be better for you in the end. Just wait until you're marching through AK and it's 95 degrees then we'll see who like the heat!:lmao:
We usually have a cold front the second week of October. I think October would be a little better because then you would have time to get situated and really have a few weeks to adjust to a completely different time zone! When you make ADRs I would just make them for both sets of dates and then just cancel one.
When I click on the new link in your sig. it leads me to the old thread still.
Dinner looks really good! I'm coming over!:rotfl2: I'm sick so we just had Boston Market for dinner.
Have a good night!.... Well day for you it's night for me.:goodvibes

Great idea. I think if there is a time that we really don't know, we can and will make the both set of ressies and then cancel one set.

Thanks for letting me know about the link!! I got it fixed now, and it should be ready to go! :cool1:

[Millie12591]

Camille, I know you are a couple of years younger than me but in the last few years I have lost my ability to stay asleep. I've never been a great sleeper, but I used to just have a hard time falling asleep. Now I can't fall asleep or stay asleep. :confused3 I'm like you, what are you going to do? It's terrible to feel so tired though but not be able to sleep. Luckily they say we need less sleep as we get older.

Liesa (I have no idea if I spelled that right), that pizza looks delicious! It must be almost lunch time...and thanks for the story about how the 3 of you hooked up, I can't wait to hear how much fun you have on your trip!

Elizabeth, you have a really good question here. I understand what your saying about not being able to fall asleep and not being able to stay asleep once there. I use to be a really good sleeper, but for some reason a couple of years ago I allowed my schedule to get really off kilter. I've always been a night owl, but for some reason lettting myself stay up waaay past a normal time of (at least normal for me) staying awake and then getting up to get my daughter ready for school, after only being asleep a few hours has really messed with my inner clock of when to be awake and when to be asleep. I think it's a matter of just getting my schedule back on track, I'm hoping to do it through exercise and an over the counter sleeping aid to start and if that doesn't work then I'll probably see a doctor. Maybe it's snoring or something I'm not realizing. :confused3
Are you doing anything for sleep issues?

[All7OfUs]

So glad you gals can help each other here! It's good to have someone who understands and might be able to offer some good advice. gotta love DISFriends!;)

[Millie12591]

So glad you gals can help each other here! It's good to have someone who understands and might be able to offer some good advice. gotta love DISFriends!;)

Sorry for hi-jacking my steppe friend. :)

It's 5 a.m. and I'm up again. :guilty: Oh well. I know eventually I can turn it around, the key is to stay awake the rest of the day. So where are you this fine hour? ;) It's been a really quiet night without the four stooges to keep us entertained online. :laughing: They will be madly missed, but I'm also glad they're where they are, having a good time. Blue should be heading out the door as I type and Jordy should be fast asleep getting the much needed rest he deserves, he had a pretty late meeting lastnight and probably didn't get home until about the time I went to bed. I know he'll get into Orlando kinda late this evening. He won't get into the Pop until around 11:30 if I remember right.

Did I tell you John (my DH) bought our plane tickets for WDW the other day? And I got my luggage yesterday!!! Magicfor2-Tammie says she has the same luggage and loves it, so I'm thrilled I bought it and now know it will be a good product. :woohoo: They're a deep dark purple. :lovestruc
John wanted to know if I bought more than one piece, I of course said yes since I'm no fool.....don't tell him I almost didn't. ;) I thought I would only buy the '29, but I'm so glad I bought all three pieces('25, '21), there should have been two or three more pieces to make the set, but you can't find them any where. That's OK, I only needed the small duffel type as an extra to put all my cosmetic type stuff in it any way, hair products, lotions, shampoo, etc. and anything else the family needs, I found a really cute 17 inch that I love, it's black but it's OK, I know I can still pick it out when coming out at the airport.....I guess I won't have to this time, ME will do that for me, huh? :yay:

Last time we went to WDW we got in so late that ME wouldn't have been able to get our luggage to us until the next morning, so we picked up our own. That will not be the case this time. :goodvibes I'll just make sure I take a carry on so we'll have a few things we'll need during the first few hours of being there, or until ME brings our luggage to the resort.
We're staying at the Coronado Springs Resort this time, my son doesn't know this so it's going to be a big surprise, this is where he wanted to stay after seeing pictures of it. We were going to stay at the POP in two rooms this time, but I found CSR to be more to our price range and all the perks struck my intrest, so we're staying there this time!! :yay:
I know I'm rambling, you'll have to forgive me. :laughing: I'm not doing my own PTR, so I need to tell someone about my pending trip.
It feels so real now since we have the plane tickets, why is it when you get the plane tickets it all finally feels like the deal has bee sealed? :confused3 :laughing: I just heard some mail come in, I think someone is up, better go and check who it is. I'll keep checking to see if your up, who knows it might be you! :goodvibes TTFN!

[All7OfUs]

Sorry for hi-jacking my steppe friend. :)

Absolutely no problem!! Hijack anytime :)

I know he'll get into Orlando kinda late this evening. He won't get into the Pop until around 11:30 if I remember right.

I'm so glad he posted his itinerary so we can all follow along! It will a fun trip for sure!!

Did I tell you John (my DH) bought our plane tickets for WDW the other day? And I got my luggage yesterday!!!

Yes!!! I saw that! Very cool that you and Tammie have the same good taste!! :goodvibes And VERY cool that you have that "done deal" feeling! We aren't quite there yet, but will be someday!

it's black but it's OK, I know I can still pick it out when coming out at the airport.....I guess I won't have to this time, ME will do that for me, huh? :yay:

Just tie a big bright ribbon on it, or better yet a huge LGMH!! Then you'll have no problem when it comes off the conveyer belt. ;)

I'll just make sure I take a carry on so we'll have a few things we'll need during the first few hours of being there, or until ME brings our luggage to the resort.

Yes! For sure your swimsuits, and your toothbrushes. Just in case. ;)

We're staying at the Coronado Springs Resort this time, my son doesn't know this so it's going to be a big surprise,

I almost chose that one, but maroo said no way. :lmao: I love the look of the pool area! So pretty!

I know I'm rambling, you'll have to forgive me. :laughing: I'm not doing my own PTR, so I need to tell someone about my pending trip.
It feels so real now since we have the plane tickets, why is it when you get the plane tickets it all finally feels like the deal has bee sealed?


No worries, you can post about your fun anytime you want- we all are eager to hear! :thumbsup2

[tinkgurl]

Whoa Liesa, I missed the pizza update! That looks yummy. We love making our own homemade pizzas! I even had the little guy make is own one time. He loved it!

[All7OfUs]

Whoa Liesa, I missed the pizza update! That looks yummy. We love making our own homemade pizzas! I even had the little guy make is own one time. He loved it!

I love to experiment with the different pizzas. Last night was BBQ chicken, but I want to try something like "lasagne" Pizza or bratwurst and kraut pizza- well, ok, that one doesn't sound too good, but, who knows maybe I'll start a new craze! :confused3 :lmao:

[All7OfUs]

Hooray!!! Tomorrow may be the last morning I HAVE to get up when the pain in the .... puppies screech at the door to be fed. 5 are now gone and only 2 are left- and one of those was promised to my househelper!! WOOT!! :woohoo:

For those of you who followed on the old thread, you know that just before Christmas, our dog had her 4th litter. It is always a gigantic pain and mess. :headache: They are difficult to give away, and there are no vets here to make permanent solutions. So, here's to hoping that the last ones will make a swift exit out the gate tomorrow!! :wizard: And then, if all goes well, this will be the only dog I will have dreams about and worry about taking pictures of.



http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/DSCN2928.jpg

[jenb1023]

Great news on the puppies! :cool1::cheer2:

Ok, I think I am back to Bek moving in if she is the baker. :lmao:

I may have lots of time to DIS this weekend - depending on where the fronts stop we are expecting anywhere from 5" - 15" of snow today into tomorrow AM. Jordan is so excited - she already has plans to play outside after school.

[glennbo123]

At first I thought the title referred to your kids, but the math didn't quite work out. Good luck finding new homes for the remaining pups.

[All7OfUs]

Great news on the puppies! :cool1::cheer2:

Ok, I think I am back to Bek moving in if she is the baker. :lmao:

I may have lots of time to DIS this weekend - depending on where the fronts stop we are expecting anywhere from 5" - 15" of snow today into tomorrow AM. Jordan is so excited - she already has plans to play outside after school.

She'd love to come on over- provided you'll pay for her 4 years of school coming up! :lmao:

At first I thought the title referred to your kids, but the math didn't quite work out. Good luck finding new homes for the remaining pups.

Good homes?? Surely you jest. They will be lucky to have a dog house in 10 below weather and enough to eat to barely keep it from starving. Poor things. I think if they survive this first winter they will do ok, but they will never be pampered or nurtured.

HA! No, only 5 kids to start with, unless you count the DH and the dog too. Sometimes.... :rolleyes1

[jenbear123]

I must have missed this in the last thread. Puppies?! I love puppies! What kind of dog do you have? It must be hard to part with the cute little things. Although it must be a big relief with less mouths to feed. Puppies are as bad as toddlers, if not worse!

[All7OfUs]

I must have missed this in the last thread. Puppies?! I love puppies! What kind of dog do you have? It must be hard to part with the cute little things. Although it must be a big relief with less mouths to feed. Puppies are as bad as toddlers, if not worse!

Our dog is mostly German Shepherd, but the sire(s) were crafty little devils who slipped in no matter what we did to "dissuade them" from the hubba-hubba. Mutts to the max, they were.

It is especially hard on the kids to see them go, because they know very well how dogs are (NOT) treated. Anara (7) cries every time one goes out the door. :sad1:

For me it is euphoria! I cleaned up two "loads" on the carpets today and several pee-pees. Their food stinks and they muddy up the floor every time they come in to eat. And that they must. It is too cold for them to stand outside to eat, so we bring them in for a few minutes every few hours to warm up. Just long enough to find "convenient" and "comfortable" places to take care of business. It's like dogs have a restroom rating system of their own.

[Millie12591]

It's like dogs have a restroom rating system of their own.


:rotfl2:What rating would Jordy, I mean the pups give your house?

[All7OfUs]

:rotfl2:What rating would Jordy, I mean the pups give your house?

Definitely a 1!

Our home has "padded" seats (carpets)

Automatic Flushers! (me)

A convenient place to wash their hands (the water bowl that they spill regularly!)

Few(er) neighbors (there's only 2 now)

No "spectators" (we rarely "catch them in the act")

Convenient Location (wherever they Happened to be- which is usually NOT where I want them to drop a load)

Yes, Jordan would definitely give it a 1!!!! :thumbsup2

[that's nice]

I have no idea what is going on here.:confused3:confused3

[that's nice]

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/DSCN2928.jpg

What a cute pup. ;)

[All7OfUs]

Once again it is time for the Belle Battalion to receive its monthly self-promotion!! :woohoo::woohoo: Even though our plans may be in a nice state of flux- for perhaps as much as a month more, we will go ahead and upgrade our rank- because we like to and it's fun. :lmao:

Especially this time, cuz looky what we get to wear now!!

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/200px-US-O6_insignia_svg.png

"Colonel 7". I like that. Just rolls off the tongue really.

Even Cross Dresser Potato Head is getting his rightful promotion. See his new insignia on his epaulet? He is very happy today, he just read in the news they are going to end the "Don't ask, don't tell" policy! Phew!

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/miscfromcamera-1.jpg

Now, did you ever wonder why "kernel" is spelled "colonel" It's like someone was trying their best after having a few too many grain based beverages in the dark, using Swahili. I have never understood this odd phonetic challenge, until I read this:

"The term colonel derives from Latin columnella 'small column'. However, it was never actually a Roman rank. The system of ranks in the Roman military was quite different. As a rank the term arose in the late sixteenth century Italy where it referred to the officer in charge of a column (Italian colonna, plural colonne) or field force. The term is first attested as colonnello, but it is perhaps a truncation of something like capitano colonnello 'captain of the column, the captain designated to command the column'. In this context colonna seems to refer to a force marching in column, rather than to a battle formation — a battle or battalion of pike."

Makes a heap more sense now.

So what does this mean for the Belle Battalion, practically speaking??

Well, first off, this entitles us to wear much cooler bling. Like this:

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/200px-US-O6_insignia_svg.png

Did I mention I really like that thing?

Modern American colonels usually command infantry brigades which means we should, by now, have recruited a ton of comrades to go with us, but sadly this is lean times in terms of takers. Instead we'll have to take command of 1,000s in lines all over WDW by utilizing FiPs (to say it right, you just really need some sort of vowel in there- and a, e, o, and u didn't make the cut), and 1,000s more in restaurants by accurately and wisely engaging ADR weaponry. We have gone through countless hours of grueling training, and are not worried that competent command of these troops and tasks will prove to be our most shining moments of victory!

"Colonels are sometimes referred to (but not addressed) as full-bird colonels"

You can imagine I found this little tidbit highly interesting!! Now I'm wondering how to big you adieu.... :rolleyes1

Click here for: A Soldier's Perks- Pt. 1, Mr. Potato Head (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35336019&postcount=258)

[All7OfUs]

I have no idea what is going on here.:confused3:confused3

I was complaining with ardent emotion that I am tired of my puppies (of which there is only 1 now :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:) using my carpets and floors as their private restroom. As cushy as it is, they are taking mighty large liberties. :guilty:

[pooh'smate]

Yea for only 1 puppy!!!!:banana::banana::banana: Your pizza looks good. We like to grill our pizzas here. That was good info on the colonel. I always wondered why it was spelled that way. Congrats to your son too for his scholarship.:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

[All7OfUs]

Yea for only 1 puppy!!!!:banana::banana::banana: Your pizza looks good. We like to grill our pizzas here. That was good info on the colonel. I always wondered why it was spelled that way. Congrats to your son too for his scholarship.:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

Yep, down to one puppy, and it's spoken for. My househelper wants it, but needs to wait until it gets back to freezing or above to take it home, since she doesn't have a doghouse.

The pizza was sooooo good. Grilled pizza?? I've never tried that. Like just on your BBQ outside??

I talked to the ROTC office yesterday, and they told me he is getting a FREE ride!! We are very stoked! Now, we'll only have to pay for 3 to go to school (my son may never go to university)- and 3 is better than 4! ;)

[jenniferkeala808]

oops! posted on the old thread! i'm here by the way! can't wait to read more!

[All7OfUs]

oops! posted on the old thread! i'm here by the way! can't wait to read more!

:welcome::welcome::welcome:

So glad to have you along! We love to joke around and have us some fun!! Chime in often, and help us plan our Week of Freedom!

[pooh'smate]

Yep, down to one puppy, and it's spoken for. My househelper wants it, but needs to wait until it gets back to freezing or above to take it home, since she doesn't have a doghouse.

The pizza was sooooo good. Grilled pizza?? I've never tried that. Like just on your BBQ outside??

I talked to the ROTC office yesterday, and they told me he is getting a FREE ride!! We are very stoked! Now, we'll only have to pay for 3 to go to school (my son may never go to university)- and 3 is better than 4! ;)

Yes we have a grill pan that is made for pizza and we cook our dough on the grill through our toppings on (our fav is BBQ chicken) and grill it some more. We grill all year round here.

[Millie12591]

Hey Mama! How are you? Did you have a good day? My day was kinda lazy, the only things I did was join a weight loss group on the DIS, vaccumed my down stairs, went to Costco for a milk and Izze's run and got a few groceries.
I think I better slow down or I'm gonna out do myself. :rolleyes:
I did manage to come home and have a glass of wine, some pizza and watched a movie or two on t.v. with my DH and then watched Singing In The Rain:love: One of my all time favorite movies.:goodvibes This movie makes me smile when I don't feel like smiling much. Nothing wrong, I think I'm just having the winter time blues. I'm anxious for spring to get here, I really knew how much when strolling through Costco and seeing all the geraniums they had out. :confused3 WTHeck?!? It's not like we can put those things out yet, so why are they getting them in? I'm anxious to get my porch all pretty again and have all my pretty flowers out. Probably something your anxious to be able to do with your new house, huh? Or is that your thing?
What have you been up to today?

[All7OfUs]

Speaking of Singing in the Rain... (one of our favorites too!)

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/Anarasnewumbrella.jpg

Well, I can't find any of the pictures I wanted to show you! Dang! This is the only one I could find of a teensy weensy piece of the yard. You can see the river behind there. This is a side yard with a working pond with a little rock waterfall that is so sweet! In the spring and summer is it completely packed with columbine and snowdrops and all kinds of other woodland flowers

The deck I wanted to show you must be on the other computer that my DH has. It is chock full of potted flowers on iron stands. Geraniums, daisies, you name it! I doubt I can keep it up like Mom did, but I'll give it my best shot. Things are so easy to grow in Oregon. Especially compared to here.

Hey, I know I"ve been lax in updating my blog lately. Seems since DH has been gone, I've been taking advantage of the extra DISsing time, so the blog has been neglected. BUT I just updated it with the next installment of the train trip that was so awful. Take a look.

[glennbo123]

Gorgeous Oregonean yard Liesa.

[All7OfUs]

Gorgeous Oregonean yard Liesa.

Thanks Glenn! I wish I could have found the pix of the wooden deck! There is also another yard with pears, figs, apples, plums and huckleberries. DH says he's been on the TLB all week. That's the Tree Liberation Brigade - freeing trees from ivy is a year round never ending job.

[glennbo123]

Thanks Glenn! I wish I could have found the pix of the wooden deck! There is also another yard with pears, figs, apples, plums and huckleberries. DH says he's been on the TLB all week. That's the Tree Liberation Brigade - freeing trees from ivy is a year round never ending job.

I swear that ivy and vines are a curse from "the fall". I have to battle them in my pine trees in my backyard (which you can see, snow-covered, in my latest PTR update). ;)

[All7OfUs]

I swear that ivy and vines are a curse from "the fall". I have to battle them in my pine trees in my backyard (which you can see, snow-covered, in my latest PTR update). ;)

Yes, along with flies, mosquitoes, amoebas that cause dysentary, and bananas.

[glennbo123]

Yes, along with flies, mosquitoes, amoebas that cause dysentary, and bananas.

I was with you up until "bananas". :confused3

[All7OfUs]

Gag and puke! I'm willing to take a bite of Tonga Toast to say I"ve done it, and frozen bananas are good because it changes the texture of them, other than that- hurl city!

[disney<333]

Speaking of Singing in the Rain... (one of our favorites too!)

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/All7OfUs/Anarasnewumbrella.jpg

Well, I can't find any of the pictures I wanted to show you! Dang! This is the only one I could find of a teensy weensy piece of the yard. You can see the river behind there. This is a side yard with a working pond with a little rock waterfall that is so sweet! In the spring and summer is it completely packed with columbine and snowdrops and all kinds of other woodland flowers

The deck I wanted to show you must be on the other computer that my DH has. It is chock full of potted flowers on iron stands. Geraniums, daisies, you name it! I doubt I can keep it up like Mom did, but I'll give it my best shot. Things are so easy to grow in Oregon. Especially compared to here.

Hey, I know I"ve been lax in updating my blog lately. Seems since DH has been gone, I've been taking advantage of the extra DISsing time, so the blog has been neglected. BUT I just updated it with the next installment of the train trip that was so awful. Take a look.
Too cute!
Your yard is so pretty! Really inspires me to do something with mine. Hmm, I still have some flower seeds from the flower and garden festival in May!:yay:

[All7OfUs]

Too cute!
Your yard is so pretty! Really inspires me to do something with mine. Hmm, I still have some flower seeds from the flower and garden festival in May!:yay:

Spring is right around the corner, Barbara!! Think flowers, and warm sushine, and birds, and rainbows!!

[disney<333]

Spring is right around the corner, Barbara!! Think flowers, and warm sushine, and birds, and rainbows!!
Hate to rub it in, but we already have most of that!:worship::rotfl2:
Nice and warm here today! I just came back from a run around the neighborhood with DD and am now going to make chocolate chip pancakes for b-fast, special treat for us!:goodvibes

[MKBekka]

Thanks Glenn! I wish I could have found the pix of the wooden deck! There is also another yard with pears, figs, apples, plums and huckleberries. DH says he's been on the TLB all week. That's the Tree Liberation Brigade - freeing trees from ivy is a year round never ending job.

That's why he's going to get a goat....but who's going to feed, scoop, and stake and re-stake?

I was with you up until "bananas". :confused3

she hates 'em. No matter what we do, we cann't get her to eat one. so sad. ;)

[that's nice]

Gag and puke! I'm willing to take a bite of Tonga Toast to say I"ve done it, and frozen bananas are good because it changes the texture of them, other than that- hurl city!

You can always eat the outsides and leave the bananas. popcorn::

But you like them frozen huh. So you don't mind the taste. :confused3


Glad you got rid of all but that 1 puppy.

[All7OfUs]

That's why he's going to get a goat....but who's going to feed, scoop, and stake and re-stake?



she hates 'em. No matter what we do, we cann't get her to eat one. so sad. ;)

That's a good question. He likes rain so much, maybe he should do it. :confused3

I'll eat a banana if you eat a big fat sushi roll. :laughing:

You can always eat the outsides and leave the bananas. popcorn::

But you like them frozen huh. So you don't mind the taste. :confused3


Glad you got rid of all but that 1 puppy.

Yeah, that would be tasty. :lmao:

I like the ones at MK with lots of choco and nuts, but if they start to melt and get slimy I'd be finding PUSH pretty quick.

I like banana bread. :confused3

Me TOO. That was getting old pretty fast.

[jenbear123]

What's wrong with bananas? :confused3

[punkin413]

i was wondering why i hadn't seen your thread on my updated threads list lately. duh. i'm in....will catch up later!

[eandesmom]

Yay for one puppies, that happened fast after seeming to take forever!

Pizza crust.....wanna share your recipe? I don't have one and the store bought stuff was...BLEH.

Congrats Kernel's!

[Native NYer]

Hi Jennifer!! I've seen all around too. So great that you've come on over!! We'll try really hard to not scare you off. Nooo, totally just kidding! Hopefully, I'll have another something to share in the next day or so. Meantime, we like to yak it up and have fun!! :rotfl:

I just looked at your ticker... You lucky ducky! You get two trips right on top of each other!! SweeT!

Thanks for the warm welcome :goodvibes

Yup, two trips planed. I can't wait to go with my friend in July. She's never been and I'll get to play tourguide.

Now, I need to catch up :surfweb:

[All7OfUs]

What's wrong with bananas? :confused3

I guess it's a texture thing more than anything?? :confused3 I just even gag though when I smell them fresh. Yucko!

i was wondering why i hadn't seen your thread on my updated threads list lately. duh. i'm in....will catch up later!

HA!! Hey, I was wondering if/when you'd show up! I tried to give the regulars a head's up on their threads, but then sort of got to thinking that that might be construed as sorta rude- like I was tooting my own horn, which I occassionally do. :rolleyes1

All kidding aside, WELCOME to the new and improved planning Fest. :thumbsup2

Yay for one puppies, that happened fast after seeming to take forever!

Pizza crust.....wanna share your recipe? I don't have one and the store bought stuff was...BLEH.

Congrats Kernel's!

Let's see: a neighbor took 2 early on, then a gal at our office took one, then 3 callers came and took them (from our ad), and my househelper is taking one. I am sad to say, that puppies/ dogs only last about 1 year if they are lucky here. It's a sad, sad thing.

Rebekah starts with 2 cups of water, 1 T yeast and a couple t. sugar. She also adds the oil (about 1/4 c.). Mix this in a big bowl and let the yeast dissolve. Stir in about 1 t. salt, 1 T crushed rosemary, and enough flour to make a not-so-stiff dough. Knead well. Let rise until doubled. Viola. It's very easy and goes together in about a half hour.

Whenever I hear Colonel, I think there should be a "Sanders" that follows. :lmao:

Thanks for the warm welcome :goodvibes

Yup, two trips planed. I can't wait to go with my friend in July. She's never been and I'll get to play tourguide.

Now, I need to catch up :surfweb:

I"m really glad you are here! 2 trips!?! So fun! LeeAnn has never been either- so I"ll definitely have to follow you along and find out how taking a Newbie goes! :cool1:

[that's nice]

I guess it's a texture thing more than anything?? :confused3 I just even gag though when I smell them fresh. Yucko!

2 great tags for the tag fairy! LOL

I tried to give the regulars a head's up on their threads, but then sort of got to thinking that that might be construed as sorta rude- like I was tooting my own horn, which I occassionally do. :rolleyes1

You would never toot... errrrrrrrr :confused3


Whenever I hear Colonel, I think there should be a "Sanders" that follows. :lmao:
And then KFC follow after that right? :rotfl2:


SORRY there were too many comments to leave alone here! LOL ;):lmao:

[All7OfUs]

2 great tags for the tag fairy! LOL



You would never toot... errrrrrrrr :confused3



And then KFC follow after that right? :rotfl2:


SORRY there were too many comments to leave alone here! LOL ;):lmao:

1. I seem to have a knack for posting questionable one-liners. :confused3:rotfl2:

2. Who me?? Nah, never... pfftt.. oops!

3. Right! Their coleslaw rocks.

4. Flame on my friend! :lmao:

[glennbo123]

Gag and puke! I'm willing to take a bite of Tonga Toast to say I"ve done it, and frozen bananas are good because it changes the texture of them, other than that- hurl city!


she hates 'em. No matter what we do, we cann't get her to eat one. so sad. ;)

I'm not a big fan of fruit, but it's more like they don't do anything for me...I can take 'em or leave 'em. I'm a bigger fan of vegetables. :thumbsup2

That's why he's going to get a goat....but who's going to feed, scoop, and stake and re-stake?

My dad used to say that: "we need to get a goat".

[Sleepingbooty]

Liesa, that pic of the Oregon yard is gorgeous! Are those actually real leaded windows?

Read the updated on your blog - how fascinating - and filthy! The train conditions, I mean;) I can't wait to hear about the rest of the journey. How often do you put yourself through - I mean, how often do you take this train?

[carissanboys]

So, I guess no peanut butter and banana sandwiches for you, Liesa? :rolleyes1 One of my favorites!

Thanks for posting Rebekah's pizza dough recipe. I'm going to try it tonight instead of our normal one. I just use the Better Home's Cookbook recipe. I do have a recipe for a "Boboli" crust. But, I don't think it was all that different from our usual one.

[carissanboys]

Oh - and I meant to ask about your blog. Could I have the link? :flower3:

[glennbo123]

Oh - and I meant to ask about your blog. Could I have the link? :flower3:

Just click the camel in her sig.

Oh, Liesa...this is for you: :banana:

[carissanboys]

Just click the camel in her sig.

Thanks! I thought that was a link to a trip report. :thumbsup2

[All7OfUs]

I'm not a big fan of fruit, but it's more like they don't do anything for me...I can take 'em or leave 'em. I'm a bigger fan of vegetables. :thumbsup2



My dad used to say that: "we need to get a goat".

I love that it can do work for us, like eat ivy and blackberries, but to have to bring it in each evening (in the rain, of course!) and to fork over a lot of dough for a vet occassionally (I just spelled that wrong) doesn't sound so fun. :confused3

Green beans- YES! Brocolli- NO, NO, NO WAY!

Liesa, that pic of the Oregon yard is gorgeous! Are those actually real leaded windows?

Read the updated on your blog - how fascinating - and filthy! The train conditions, I mean;) I can't wait to hear about the rest of the journey. How often do you put yourself through - I mean, how often do you take this train?

Yes, they are! and in the dining area, my FIL made a gigantic stained glass window (also leaded) from different textures of white glass! It's so pretty!

I wish I could post more on it, but since I have to use a network "hider" thing (can one of you techie people explain how this works?) it is soooo slow to use the internet. I don't use it to do my normal surfing, but to get to my blog I have to go that route. I get frustrated with it, and since I know they are now reading it, I have to be more careful. Hence, only weekly updates now. I have sooooooooooo many stories to share, and once I get back I'll use that as a story telling place. :)

We take that train about once a year. It's a 24 hour ride. ONe time some friends were coming from the north of our country into the big city and a coal train in front of them derailed. They were stuck on that train for an additional 24 hours. They ran out of food and water, and diapers for the baby. It was horrible! They missed their flight to Thailand, too.

So, I guess no peanut butter and banana sandwiches for you, Liesa? :rolleyes1 One of my favorites!

Thanks for posting Rebekah's pizza dough recipe. I'm going to try it tonight instead of our normal one. I just use the Better Home's Cookbook recipe. I do have a recipe for a "Boboli" crust. But, I don't think it was all that different from our usual one.

NEVER, EVER! But, I do like fried plantains- they are not as sweet and drier in texture. I don't know, I can't really figure it out. :confused3

Let me know how the crust turns out! We've done it so many times (like every Friday night) that we sorta just do it now. ;)

Oh - and I meant to ask about your blog. Could I have the link? :flower3:


The middle picture in my siggie is the link for it. the one with the camel on it. Let me know if you need me to send it to you in a different way, but it should pull right up.

[All7OfUs]

Just click the camel in her sig.

Oh, Liesa...this is for you: :banana:

ha, ha. very funny.

let me know if you need any caviar. (it'd be luck you'd like it, and my joke will fall flat here)

[glennbo123]

ha, ha. very funny.

let me know if you need any caviar. (it'd be luck you'd like it, and my joke will fall flat here)

I've had it once or twice and don't even remember if I liked it.

Would you be sending it from that "Waffle House of Caviar"?

[All7OfUs]

I've had it once or twice and don't even remember if I liked it.

Would you be sending it from that "Waffle House of Caviar"?

:lmao::lmao::lmao:

yeah, that one. I have GOT to get me a photo of that next time I'm in the airport!! what a crack up! What's even funnier is that it's right next to Gloria Jeans coffee. It's like Blankastan and America all juxtaposed next to each other touting the best it has to offer. both overpriced, of course. :rotfl2:

[All7OfUs]

Well All, It's been fun this evening (morning for you), but it's high time I hit the sack! Church is here at our house tomorrow and I need to be up earlier than I'd like to be to prepare some. But you know I'll be having nightmares of bananas chasing me with spoons, followed by perfectly wonderful dreams of Kentucky Fried Chicken all greasy and lovely.

[carissanboys]

Well All, It's been fun this evening (morning for you), but it's high time I hit the sack! Church is here at our house tomorrow and I need to be up earlier than I'd like to be to prepare some. But you know I'll be having nightmares of bananas chasing me with spoons, followed by perfectly wonderful dreams of Kentucky Fried Chicken all greasy and lovely.

:rotfl: G'night Liesa! :goodvibes

[Diamondintheruff]

I can't side with you over the banana thing. I like them. Especially banana bread. Yum!

[All7OfUs]

:rotfl: G'night Liesa! :goodvibes
I love hanging out here in the evenings with ya'll (that southern thing is growing on me!) :)

I can't side with you over the banana thing. I like them. Especially banana bread. Yum!

I know; most everyone I know likes them- except one old friend of mine. One time her friends stuck a banana in her car under the seat as a joke. Even the smell made her gag. After a day of the baby sitting under there in her hot car, well, you get the idea. She got in after work and proceeded to barf all over the car. :eek: She was pretty peeved, but her friends were nice and paid for her car to be cleaned out. :sad2:

[that's nice]

I love hanging out here in the evenings with ya'll (that southern thing is growing on me!) :)

Should we blame Maroo for this 'Southern Thing'? LOL:lmao:

I know; most everyone I know likes them- except one old friend of mine. One time her friends stuck a banana in her car under the seat as a joke. Even the smell made her gag. After a day of the baby sitting under there in her hot car, well, you get the idea. She got in after work and proceeded to barf all over the car. :eek: She was pretty peeved, but her friends were nice and paid for her car to be cleaned out. :sad2:

Oh man that is pretty gross.

A few months ago, Mel wet to the grocery store and when she got home we couldn't find the lunch meat. I searched her car 3 times looking for it. She thought maybe they didn't put it in a bag. A few days later there was an awful stench in her car and the lunch meat slid down in-between the seats. I never thought it would be in there. MAN was it disgusting!!! :crazy2: