nov 28, 2010 - 4 night cruise on wonder

[mannpeg729]

nov 28, 2010 - 4 night cruise

we just put our deposit for this cruise, our very first. would love to meet some new friends who will be aboard! especially families since we are cruising with our four and six year old sons!!!

[thor205]

Hi we'll be there! We have a 12yo and a 3 yo. And the grandparents! Should be a fun time. We're on deck 5 - you?
Rosemary :)

[thor205]

Can someone please add this link to the Cruise Meets? I tried to request it but they won't let me - I'm too newbie to PM LOL thanks

[thor205]

284 days - I hope my count down ticker is right!
Anybody getting psyched yet? It's our first Dis cruise. We went on Carnival for our honeymoon in 1994 - it was nice but they retired the ship the next year - it was OLD!! Can't wait til Nov - now if I could just lose a few lbs in preparation for the vittles!! MMMMM :goodvibes

[mannpeg729]

hi ro!

we are cruising, my husband and myself are bringing our 4 and 6 yearold sons on the cruise... first for all of us! i'm so excited and thrilled to meet someone who will be on board. we are on deck 6.

i'd love to get to know you! email me directly if you like at mannpeg729 at yahoo.com (it wouldnt let me post it as my actual email but you could just use the at symbol instead of the word)

hope to talk with you soon!
peg

[thor205]

Hi Peg I emailed you! I finally have enough posts to PM Irish Cowboy so I did send him a message to make us a link. Talk soon!

[RadioFanatic]

Hey! We're going to be on it too! Very excited - a million times to WDW but first DCL cruise! Dh, myself and our almost 3 year old (he just turned 2). The first night is actually Dh and my 12th wedding anniversary! :love: We got one of the secret porthole rooms (5520) and really can't wait! We're then going to WDW for four nights.

I want a ticker too! Can anyone tell me how to make one?

[thor205]

Yay - so there are officially 3 of us on the cruise lol
I got my ticker at http://www.mickeypath.com/

We're in a secret porthole too (5022) but I didn't plan it that way - I didn't even know about them until after I booked!! So it was kizmet I guess :thumbsup2

My son will be 3 in May so looks like he'll already have a little friend on board woohoo!

[IrishCowboy]

I have added your thread to the cruise meet list :thumbsup2

[mannpeg729]

Nice to meet you!

So exciting to start learning a little bit more about the friends who will share what seems to be the best vacation ever!!!

Soooo, where are you from?


Peg

[RadioFanatic]

Yay - so there are officially 3 of us on the cruise lol
I got my ticker at http://www.mickeypath.com/

We're in a secret porthole too (5022) but I didn't plan it that way - I didn't even know about them until after I booked!! So it was kizmet I guess :thumbsup2

My son will be 3 in May so looks like he'll already have a little friend on board woohoo!

OMG - we are actually neighbors! I can't believe that in all of the world, we now know the family that is going to be next store to us and they have a boy close to our son's age. It's so nice to meet you!

[RadioFanatic]

Nice to meet you!

So exciting to start learning a little bit more about the friends who will share what seems to be the best vacation ever!!!

Soooo, where are you from?


Peg

It's nice to meet you! We are from upstate NY (Scotia, which is near Albany/Schenectady). How about you?

Kimberly

[RadioFanatic]

I've been able to create the tag, but now I can't insert it into my signature -which do I use? thanks!

[mannpeg729]

hi Kimberly!

we are so excited to start getting to know some other people on the cruise!!!'

we are from a small suburb of Cleveland, OH. My husband and I are sailing with our two sons who will turn 6 and 4 this year. it's our first cruise and trip to disney!!!! we are on the deck 6 and splurged on a verandah suite!

i spend lots of time researching any tips i can find to make this a vacation of a lifetime...how am i gonna make it til November???????????

so nice to meet you!
peg

[RadioFanatic]

hi Kimberly!

we are so excited to start getting to know some other people on the cruise!!!'

we are from a small suburb of Cleveland, OH. My husband and I are sailing with our two sons who will turn 6 and 4 this year. it's our first cruise and trip to disney!!!! we are on the deck 6 and splurged on a verandah suite!

i spend lots of time researching any tips i can find to make this a vacation of a lifetime...how am i gonna make it til November???????????

so nice to meet you!
peg
It sounds like all our kids are close in age which is great!!! R u guys doing anything in the Bahamas? I'm unsure what, if anything, we should do. We r also considering renting a cabana on CC if they are ready. Dh and I have only been on carnival and that was back in 2002. Where are you staying at WDW?

[mannpeg729]

We haven't decided what shore excursions we want to try. And have heard that port days are a great way to take advatage of an uncrowded ship! So we are still thinking!

[mannpeg729]

We are thinking about staying at the movies hotel because our boys LOVE buzz & woody... Would love any / all advice you have to offer on planning a two day stay before our cruise. By the way, What is downtown Disney all about?

[RadioFanatic]

I enjoyed all star movies. I also enjoyed pop century quite a bit. As the weekend before the trip is thanksgiving weekend, I would make your reservations sooner rather than later.

Downtown disney has a ton of restaurants and great stores for shopping. We always make a point of going there one night as the world of disney store is amazing. We always eat at Fulton's crabhouse which is a HUGE ferry boat (docked) and then shop til we drop!

[mannpeg729]

hey girls! we set sail 9 months from today!!!! :dance3:

btw, do you facebook? was thinking that might be a fun way to get to know each other...

if so, please think about friending me... search for Peggy Stone Anderson. (hope i don't sound like a weirdo or anything!! just really excited about the trip...)

:yay:

[thor205]

Of course I facebook :laughing:
I made a group for us here
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=337641382325&ref=mf

If you're cruising Nov 28 please join us! :surfweb:

[RadioFanatic]

I facebook too! Peggy, I asked to friend you - I'm Kimberly. And I asked to join the group too!

[Angelhalo]

Just got off the Wonder today! We booked this cruise too. It will be DH, myself, and one other couple. None of us have kidlettes.

[mannpeg729]

glad you joined our little thread! looking forward to a wonderful cruise... we can hardly wait. how about you? what are you most looking forward to?

[Angelhalo]

glad you joined our little thread! looking forward to a wonderful cruise... we can hardly wait. how about you? what are you most looking forward to?

We spent a LOT of time in the pool last time. It was great but I want to do some of old standby's this time too like daytime alcohol tastings, see a movie, play some games in the pub and so on!

[RadioFanatic]

Hi Angelhalo! It will be nice to have an experienced DISer on board since the rest of us are DCL newbies! Are you on FB? We have a page there.

[DaveH]

How all, we just booked this cruise a few days ago. This will be our 4th cruise. We are doing this one and the one after as B2B cruises. DW's birthday is during this cruise also. So we are celebrating her birthday and seeing the holiday decorations. This is a double win for us.:cool1:

[DaveH]

Of course I facebook :laughing:
I made a group for us here
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=337641382325&ref=mf


If you're cruising Nov 28 please join us! :surfweb:

I sent a request.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Hi all! I'm DW to Dave H above and I just asked to join the FB group, too.

We're cruising alone, too--kids are all grown and gone. Disney helps a lot to feed the grandma-wanna-be in me! Like Dave said, this will be our 4th DCL cruise and one of my favorite things to do is to hang over the railing on Deck 4 and watch the kids meeting and interacting with the characters down in the Atrium. It's soooo magical!!!

Angelhalo, I've done both the martini tasting and the tequila tasting and can tell you they are both fabulous fun!!! I'm thinking I may sign up for them again along with the wine tasting, this time. Just not all on the same day, of course! :lmao: Shall we "buddy up" to the bar?

Can't wait for November. I've already started planning my Fish Extender gifts, in the hopes we'll get a group going for that. Anybody else interested?

[RadioFanatic]

Hi Beth and Dave! Happy to have you join us. I'm so excited to see the group get larger! Where is your room?

Who is doing early dinner v. late? We are early.

[RadioFanatic]

Can't wait for November. I've already started planning my Fish Extender gifts, in the hopes we'll get a group going for that. Anybody else interested?

I would be willing to join; but am unsure of the details. Could you explain it to us? I don't want to lead it though since this DCL experience is new to me.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

I would be willing to join; but am unsure of the details. Could you explain it to us? I don't want to lead it though since this DCL experience is new to me.

The Fish Extender thing is like a mini-exchange. On the wall outside each cabin door is a metal fish that is actually a super strong spring-clip. It's to hold messages and such--like an invitation to come to the Disney Vacation Club presentation. Some positively brilliant person came up with the idea of extending these fish by hanging a bag or set of pockets from the fish where fellow cruisers could leave little gifts. People on the thread will sign up to participate and during the cruise, will make the rounds to each cabin that is signed up and leave presents for their new friends. It's so much fun being an FE Fairy (or whatever you want to call it)! The gifts can be as much or as little as the giver desires--no maximum and no minimum. You can also choose to gift each person in the cabin/family or just do one gift per cabin/family. Someone on this thread will need to volunteer to coordinate it and will collect all the names, ages, and cabin numbers of the participants. (OK, twist my arm-I'll do it) About 30 days out, the list will be closed to any additions and the complete list will be either published on the thread or sent by PM to each of the people who signed up their cabin/family. That's so everybody knows exactly how many gifts to prepare. On our 7-day cruise, we were each assigned a day to deliver our goodies, so that everybody received something each day. But on the other 2 cruises, it was whenever we chose to make the deliveries.

Check out other threads on the DCL board that mention Fish Extenders in the topic. There are tons of pictures of the different FEs that people used. I've seen everything from a plastic Wal-Mart bag to a vinyl shower caddy to the handmade personalized pockets you can get on eBay. One of my favorites threads is the one where people show off the handmade items they've given out. http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1980639&highlight=handmade

Decorating your door with magnets is another really fun thing to do. :teeth: Check out some of these threads with pictures of doors and DISigns:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2281626&highlight=door+pictures
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2440038
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2172891

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Hi Beth and Dave! Happy to have you join us. I'm so excited to see the group get larger! Where is your room?

Who is doing early dinner v. late? We are early.

We're in Cabin 6099--we settled for the smaller inside room so we could swing the B2B. We're dining early, too! Dining late doesn't leave me enough time to "work it off" before bedtime. I just hope we get some fun tablemates this time. On our last cruise we had a gentleman who spoke no English! I felt so bad!! Heck, I'd be happy to link reservations with a family with kids so we could REALLY have fun at the dinner table!!

[RadioFanatic]

We're in Cabin 6099--we settled for the smaller inside room so we could swing the B2B. We're dining early, too! Dining late doesn't leave me enough time to "work it off" before bedtime. I just hope we get some fun tablemates this time. On our last cruise we had a gentleman who spoke no English! I felt so bad!! Heck, I'd be happy to link reservations with a family with kids so we could REALLY have fun at the dinner table!!

If you are in for a crazy almost three year old, we would link with you but I don't know how to do it! I saw you were from Sterling - I grew up in Roanoke!

So we only have to do one gift per family, meaning not multiple days, correct? If others are in, I'll do it too! And I would love to nominate you to lead!

[RadioFanatic]

who on ebay are reputable to order the fish extender pockets from?

[mannpeg729]

seeing more people join makes me feel like time is actually passing and we will eventually get to go on our cruise!! feels like we've been waiting forever!!!

nice to meet you, new friends!

i am considering doing the fish extender, a little intimidated, mostly becuase i have a tendency to go overboard on making crafty things and i will drive myself crazy figuring out just what i'd like to do!! but seriously, i would be interested in doing it.

take care!!

[CrazyBoutDisney]

If you are in for a crazy almost three year old, we would link with you but I don't know how to do it! I saw you were from Sterling - I grew up in Roanoke!

So we only have to do one gift per family, meaning not multiple days, correct? If others are in, I'll do it too! And I would love to nominate you to lead!

OMG, Kimberly! I would LOVE a crazy almost 3 year old!! A friend of mine has a 3 year old and they've nick-named me "Faux Nana". I love kids and miss the little ones so bad, I dropped out of choir at church in order to teach the 4 year old Sunday School class. I've got the Grandma-wanna-be thing really bad and it doesn't look like either of my grown kids is going to do anything about it. Sigh...

I've never linked ressies with anyone before, but I think all you have to do is to let your travel agent (or DCL, if you booked your cruise yourself) know that you would like to be linked and give them the name. There's no guarantee, but I've heard they've honored requests in the past.

And yeah, you only have to gift each FE participant once, not every day. If you WANT to do it every day, that's allowed, of course.

Peggy, I tend to go overboard making the crafty things, too. Now that we've done it a few times, I might have finally learned my lesson. Last year, I needed a whole separate suitcase for my gifts. I had decorated 8x10 mats and made them into hanging picture frames for each adult and 5x7 ones for each kid. Then, since I knew the kids wouldn't be all that thrilled with "a stupid frame", I put together goodie bags of Disney trinkets and beach or pirate themed party favors. Yeah, a little over the top. I'm planning much smaller items this time.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

who on ebay are reputable to order the fish extender pockets from?

I just checked ebay and there are only 2 people selling fish extenders right now. I can't remember for sure, but I think I got our personalized one from gradysmommy. I know it came from NC, anyway. And it's gorgeous--a little smaller than I expected, but perfectly adequate.

[RadioFanatic]

Beth, I see you are going for your bday and anniversary - we are going for our 12th anniversary - it's teh first night - 11/28! When is yours?

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Beth, I see you are going for your bday and anniversary - we are going for our 12th anniversary - it's teh first night - 11/28! When is yours?

Ya know, I think this cruise is going to be one long PARTY!!! :banana: My birthday is the 2nd night, 11/29. Our anniversary is actually not until Jan 1st, but we're celebrating on the cruise anyway. It will be our 10th. Yes, we both had previous lives before finally finding the RIGHT one!

[RadioFanatic]

Ya know, I think this cruise is going to be one long PARTY!!! :banana: My birthday is the 2nd night, 11/29. Our anniversary is actually not until Jan 1st, but we're celebrating on the cruise anyway. It will be our 10th. Yes, we both had previous lives before finally finding the RIGHT one!

Congrats on the big 1-0! And kudos to finding the RIGHT one! And I agree about the party!

[RadioFanatic]

So does anyone else want to do Fish Extender? I would love to get a list going and get my stuff started, but don't want to buy stuff is no one is interested.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

So does anyone else want to do Fish Extender? I would love to get a list going and get my stuff started, but don't want to buy stuff is no one is interested.

I guess we have to make it official so people can sign up! I'll maintain the list and it will be however you choose to do it. You can just do one thing for each stateroom/family or you can do something for each individual. Also, delivery can be done on any day of the cruise you choose, as often as you choose.

Anyone who is interested in participating in the Fish Extender Exchange, please PM me with the following information:

First Name of each Member of your party
Age of each (or just the kids' ages)
Your Stateroom number

It should look something like this:
DH-Dad's Name (47)
Me-Mom's Name (??)
DS-Child #1 Name (14)
DS-Child #2 Name (10)
DD-Child #3 Name (6)
Stateroom #9999

Be sure we can tell whether each person in your party is male or female!

I just checked back thru this thread and we only have 5/6 families so far who have checked in that they will be on this cruise. So IF all these folks sign up for the FE, we'll have a very small, group. I think we may get more folks joining us on this thread once we get down to about 3 months out.

Mannpeg729 (Peg) with her DH & 2 boys
thor205 (Rosemary) with her DH, 2 kids, and grandparents
RadioFanatic (Kimberly) with her DH and DS
Angelhalo with her DH and another couple
Me (Beth) & her DH (Dave)

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Whoo-hooo!!! Kimberly, you are Number One!! Got your info for the FE!

Are you going as crazy as I am, waiting for time to pass and Nov 28th to get here??!!! Truthfully, I do NOT understand why we don't have tons of people on our thread, asking questions, making plans, getting to know each other. It makes it so much more fun when you finally meet face-to-face on the cruise, it's like running into an old friend you haven't seen in a long while!

Oh well, we'll just have to be patient and hope more folks join the thread/party. In the meantime, I'm crossing off the days on the calendar, making trinkets for the FE exchange and chewing my nails up to the elbow!!

[smartkim]

We're going!! First time cruisers and we are SO excited!!! We'll be celebrating our anniversary too (20th) which was in March but the cruise is part of our gift to each other. It will be us and our two teenage boys. We'd like to participate in the FE fun! I'll PM our information (still trying to figure out the boards :goodvibes.


Kim
Jasper, AL

[RadioFanatic]

Welcome Kim! I'm a Kimberly too so that's great! And congrats on 20 years! We're doing this trip for our 12th instead of presents.

And I agree Beth, where is everyone signing up for FE and chatting away? I'm excited about this cruise - we haven't taken one since 2001 and never on DCL; so I really can't wait!

Anyone picked something to do in Nassau? I'm really thinking of doing this:

http://bahamascruiseexcursions.com/NassauHiltonResortPass.htm

That way, we are close to the ship, can use a beach and have $30 in vouchers for food each. With a two year old, it seems the smartest thing to do in case we have meltdowns, etc.. Has anyone seen this Hilton's beach? Is it okay? Any other suggestions?

[smartkim]

Thanks Kimberly (do you go by Kim or Kimberly?). We are looking forward to the cruise very much. I sent Beth my info for the FE. I would love to sign up for FB but my kids are on there and this is a surprise for them!

[CrazyBoutDisney]

:banana::yay::banana:
Welcome Kim--and you're right down the hall, I mean passageway, from us! Now there's 3 of us celebrating anniversaries--this is going to be the BEST party ever!!! You sound like a really fun mom, too, keeping this cruise a secret to surprise your boys! I got your info for the FE and am truly looking forward to meeting you and your family.

Peggy, I got your PM, now don't forget to look up your cabin number and send me your info! This will make 4 families participating in the FE, so far.

Kimberly, the Hilton beach thing sounds like a great idea! Can't go wrong when they offer food & drink vouchers!! We haven't done any of the excursions in Nassau yet, despite having been there twice. Been thinking about the tour of Atlantis, though.

So far, our only tentative plans are to have dinner at Palo's on Monday night. Since we have early seating, we'll probably still come to our rotation dinner, at least for a little while, just to visit with our tablemates and servers. What we're really looking forward to is seeing the ship and Castaway Cay all decked out for the holidays. Dave and I have made it a tradition to visit WDW and go to the Candlelight Processional every year to kick off the Christmas season. This year, it will still be Disney, but on the ship. Personally, I'm hoping for carol singing at the very least!

[RadioFanatic]

Thanks Kimberly (do you go by Kim or Kimberly?). We are looking forward to the cruise very much. I sent Beth my info for the FE. I would love to sign up for FB but my kids are on there and this is a surprise for them!

I prefer Kimberly but am fine with Kim. That's awesome that's it's a surprise. For now, everything to my 2 year old is a surprise!

[RadioFanatic]

:banana::yay::banana:
Welcome Kim--and you're right down the hall, I mean passageway, from us! Now there's 3 of us celebrating anniversaries--this is going to be the BEST party ever!!! You sound like a really fun mom, too, keeping this cruise a secret to surprise your boys! I got your info for the FE and am truly looking forward to meeting you and your family.

Peggy, I got your PM, now don't forget to look up your cabin number and send me your info! This will make 4 families participating in the FE, so far.

Kimberly, the Hilton beach thing sounds like a great idea! Can't go wrong when they offer food & drink vouchers!! We haven't done any of the excursions in Nassau yet, despite having been there twice. Been thinking about the tour of Atlantis, though.

So far, our only tentative plans are to have dinner at Palo's on Monday night. Since we have early seating, we'll probably still come to our rotation dinner, at least for a little while, just to visit with our tablemates and servers. What we're really looking forward to is seeing the ship and Castaway Cay all decked out for the holidays. Dave and I have made it a tradition to visit WDW and go to the Candlelight Processional every year to kick off the Christmas season. This year, it will still be Disney, but on the ship. Personally, I'm hoping for carol singing at the very least!

We decided not to do Palo this trip. We really don't want to put DS in the nursery - it took us 10 years to have him so we have had 10 years of trips without a little one! I agree about Christmas decorations. We haven't been to disney at christmas since our honeymoon 12 years ago so I can't wait to see all the decorations there and then on the ship too! We are going to do MVMCP, but hold on the processional. Although we love it, i'm not sure our son will sit for that long!

[tigger30066]

Just found this link. This will be my first cruise ever. My best friend and I are going to together. We will then be going to WDW for 3 days after. I am so excited. I want to start packing now, but I know I can't. Is anyone else planning on doing the sea lion excursion in Nassau?

Thanks

Becky

[tigger30066]

We so want to join the FE but I can not PM due to my earning my ears status.

Can you please sign us up.

BFF Becky (32)
BFF Julie (39)
Cabin #7119

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Welcome aboard, Becky and Julie!! And congrats on taking your first cruise! Bet you'll be back for more--it's addicting!

Never done the sea lion excursion, but I'm sure it's fun. I love those creatures! Years ago I had a season pass to Sea World and I'd watch show after show after show.

You have been duly added to the FE roster, no worries. :thumbsup2 Keep posting and you'll earn your ears in no time!!

[tigger30066]

I am so exicted. Paid the cruise in full today. :yay: only 17 more weeks.

[RadioFanatic]

Hey! Where are we on FE list? I want to start getting stuff, so I would love an idea of who is on the list - thanks!

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Hey! Where are we on FE list? I want to start getting stuff, so I would love an idea of who is on the list - thanks!

Hi Kimberly! Still just the 5 participating cabins:

Peg (mannpeg729)
DH-Brian
DS (6) Harlem
DS (4) Houston
#6560

Kim (smartkim)
DH (no name provided)
DS (no name or age provided)
DS (no name or age provided)
No cabin number provided

Becky (tigger30066)
Julie (friend-adult)
#7119

Me-Beth (CrazyBoutDisney)
DH-Dave
#6099

You-Kimberly (RadioFanatic)
DH (no name provided)
DS (no name provided)(almost 3 on the cruise)
#5520

Have not heard anything from Rosemary (Thor205) or Angelhalo--they are the only other folks who have posted on this thread, so far.

I still think we may have more people join us as we get closer to the cruise. I will keep the signups open until Nov. 10th, to allow the max amount of time for people to decide if they want to participate or not and still give us participants enough time to plan our gifts.

Thankfully, I am staying crazy busy at work, so I am able to keep my mind off the interminable waiting. But, I still want to go NOW!!!!

[smartkim]

I sent you all my info, don't know why you didn't get it.

Me - Kim
DH - Lee
DS - Kyle (17)
DS - Josh (13)

Cabin #6055 (Let me double check this, 'cause I'm trying to go on memory and it's not so good. I'll let you know for sure!)

[RadioFanatic]

Dh is Mark and DS is Isaac.

Thanks for getting this together!

[CrazyBoutDisney]

I sent you all my info, don't know why you didn't get it.

Me - Kim
DH - Lee
DS - Kyle (17)
DS - Josh (13)

Cabin #6055 (Let me double check this, 'cause I'm trying to go on memory and it's not so good. I'll let you know for sure!)

Thanks, Kim! Too weird--I don't remember getting anything from you. In any case, I'm updating the list and will post it shortly. Looking forward to meeting you all!!

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Thank you, Kimberly!

Looks like we have a very nice, diverse group going here--kids from toddlers to teens and adults who enjoy Disney even with no kids in tow. Here is the updated list:

Peg (mannpeg729)
DH-Brian
DS (6) Harlem
DS (4) Houston
#6560

Kim (smartkim)
DH-Lee
DS-Kyle (17)
DS-Josh (13)
#6055 (subj. to verification LOL!)

Becky (tigger30066)
Julie (friend-adult)
#7119

Me-Beth (CrazyBoutDisney)
DH-Dave
#6099

You-Kimberly (RadioFanatic)
DH-Mark
DS-Isaac (almost 3 on the cruise)
#5520

So, does everyone have their transportation to and from the cruise planned? Who's spending time at WDW either before or after? Wish we had enough time off work to play at Mickey's house, but sadly, all we have is the day before the cruise.

We'll fly in Fri night and will be staying at AKL. A good friend of mine lives just north of the port is expecting her first child in 3 weeks, so I'm planning to visit her and the baby on Saturday. We're renting a car so we can get to the port early on Sunday. Last time, the DCL bus didn't get us there till 2:30pm and we missed our DISmeet!!

Which reminds me--do we want to plan a meet? Personally, I like having one at the beginning of the cruise. That way, we can put faces to names and be able to recognize our new friends when we see them through-out the cruise. Also a good time for folks to discuss and decide if they want to do things together. I, for one, am looking for a buddy to do the Martini or Tequila tasting (or whatever they are doing on this cruise) with me. DH is up for the wine tasting, but he's not into the other stuff.

[tigger30066]

We are driving down the Friday after Thanksgiving. MK on Saturday, then drive to the port. After Cruise back to WDW for 3 nights at All Star Movies. I know we are going to do the sea lion in Nassau, but really don't have any other plans. Would love to meet everyone.

[RadioFanatic]

Thank you, Kimberly!

Looks like we have a very nice, diverse group going here--kids from toddlers to teens and adults who enjoy Disney even with no kids in tow. Here is the updated list:

Peg (mannpeg729)
DH-Brian
DS (6) Harlem
DS (4) Houston
#6560

Kim (smartkim)
DH-Lee
DS-Kyle (17)
DS-Josh (13)
#6055 (subj. to verification LOL!)

Becky (tigger30066)
Julie (friend-adult)
#7119

Me-Beth (CrazyBoutDisney)
DH-Dave
#6099

You-Kimberly (RadioFanatic)
DH-Mark
DS-Isaac (almost 3 on the cruise)
#5520

So, does everyone have their transportation to and from the cruise planned? Who's spending time at WDW either before or after? Wish we had enough time off work to play at Mickey's house, but sadly, all we have is the day before the cruise.

We'll fly in Fri night and will be staying at AKL. A good friend of mine lives just north of the port is expecting her first child in 3 weeks, so I'm planning to visit her and the baby on Saturday. We're renting a car so we can get to the port early on Sunday. Last time, the DCL bus didn't get us there till 2:30pm and we missed our DISmeet!!

Which reminds me--do we want to plan a meet? Personally, I like having one at the beginning of the cruise. That way, we can put faces to names and be able to recognize our new friends when we see them through-out the cruise. Also a good time for folks to discuss and decide if they want to do things together. I, for one, am looking for a buddy to do the Martini or Tequila tasting (or whatever they are doing on this cruise) with me. DH is up for the wine tasting, but he's not into the other stuff.

Although we have a toddler with us, DH and I have been going to WDW every year from our honeymoon until now - so 10 years before DS was even born. Poor kid never had a chance!

We are making this a CRAZY vacation. First started out with cruise and then four nights after at AKV (rented points). Then, added two night to front because I really wanted to stay at BLT and could rent points for two nights there. Then, SW rates came out and it was $120 less to fly on thanksgiving rather than friday which we originally planned - that's what ASMovies cost, so we decided to come a night earlier - so three resorts and a cruise for 11 nights total! We were planning to use Disney transportation bc didn't want to rent a car or bring a car seat. Now you have me concerned about how late they get you there! I would love a meet!

[klivanos]

Sooo excited!! Theres 8 of us going to celebrate my daughters Sweet Sixteen
4 adults and 4 girls ages 17,15,12 and 11..princess:
107 days to go. we cant wait. Were doing a night before and a night after the cruise at the Pop Century..

[tigger30066]

Welcome to the thread. We are first time cruisers as well. Are you going to join the Fish Extender? Check the previous posts in this thread to find our more information.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Sooo excited!! Theres 8 of us going to celebrate my daughters Sweet Sixteen
4 adults and 4 girls ages 17,15,12 and 11..princess:
107 days to go. we cant wait. Were doing a night before and a night after the cruise at the Pop Century..

Glad to have you and all the princesses aboard!!! What an awesome way to celebrate your daughter's birthday, too. Does her b'day actually fall during the cruise? Mine does--Monday, 11/29! Of course, I'm a few years older, but I'd be happy to wait for her to catch up!!! :lmao: Looking forward to meeting you all!

Aww Becky and Kimberly, I'm so jealous! You get to play with Mickey and the gang (pout, pout) Would really like to hear what you think of BLT. We're DVC members and haven't been able to get in there yet. Prior to DVC, ASMovies and Pop Century were our favorite resorts. Becky, be sure to say hello to the dalmations and Andy's room for me!

[klivanos]

Haven't decided if I'm doing the fish extender yet. I'll get back to you on that.

My daughters birthday is actually the last day of the cruise 12/02 so we will celebrate at Hollywood Studios :)

Anyone have any suggestions on what to do in The Bahamas.
we want to go to the beach but dont want to pay crazy $$$ to just lay on the beach.Does anyone know of a beach that we can go to???

[mavenmom]

Hi All

We are from Virginia, family of 3, and booked this cruise a few months back but just found this site. Cool! This will be our first cruise, ever, kind of see how our son likes Cruising before taking a longer one someday. We are driving down from VA, and also planning on extending our vacation, having a 3-4 day excursion in Cocoa Beach area post-cruise, to do NASA stuff, etc. before driving back, considering Ron Jon Caribe resort.

It is me, my DH and son, who turns 5 that week. He is SO excited to go, went to Disney in Orlando last year. I honestly cannot recollect what stateroom or deck we are on, I know it is interior, low in the ship and has no window, very close to elevators. We wanted no porthole, no verandah to fall off of, just a room to sleep in that we could take turns go in and out of without waking him.

Our son is daycare savy, not clingy, pretty independent, very much looking forward to playing with the other kids in the provided childcare programs, where he believes parent's arent allowed to go. He likes all superheros, dinosaurs, pretending army, scooby doo, is pretty gentle and funny, really likes to swim. We have made NO plans for shore excursions or on-boat activites yet, but know we are in early dining (thank goodness!) .

We are early risers, also and pretty strict with regard to behavior, potty words, sharing, good manners, like yes ma'am/sir, thank you, etc. etc. etc. Would love to meet some other families, with playmates for him, esp. other parents with just 1, to give another only child a chance to "connect" with someone else, maybe even in advance, to give them both something to look forward to!

OK I probably exceeded any reasonable "first post" etiquette or limit, so apologies in advance and thanks for reading and see all of you come November.

MavenMom

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Hi All

We are from Virginia, family of 3....

Welcome aboard, mavenmom!!! Where from in VA? We're from the northern part, near Dulles airport. Looking forward to meeting you and the family!

I don't think you'll have any trouble finding a buddy for your DS. If I remember correctly, Peg has a couple of boys right around his age and there are a couple of others slightly younger. And that's just here on this thread! There will be plenty more on the ship!

Feel free to ask any questions you may have or check out the FAQ thread near the top of the cruise line board. I was so nervous underneath all my excitement for our first cruise--I'm sure with a youngster in tow, it must be twice as bad for you! Believe me, the folks here on the DIS will bend over backwards to help relieve the stress.

[RadioFanatic]

Hi All

We are from Virginia, family of 3, and booked this cruise a few months back but just found this site. Cool! This will be our first cruise, ever, kind of see how our son likes Cruising before taking a longer one someday. We are driving down from VA, and also planning on extending our vacation, having a 3-4 day excursion in Cocoa Beach area post-cruise, to do NASA stuff, etc. before driving back, considering Ron Jon Caribe resort.

It is me, my DH and son, who turns 5 that week. He is SO excited to go, went to Disney in Orlando last year. I honestly cannot recollect what stateroom or deck we are on, I know it is interior, low in the ship and has no window, very close to elevators. We wanted no porthole, no verandah to fall off of, just a room to sleep in that we could take turns go in and out of without waking him.

Our son is daycare savy, not clingy, pretty independent, very much looking forward to playing with the other kids in the provided childcare programs, where he believes parent's arent allowed to go. He likes all superheros, dinosaurs, pretending army, scooby doo, is pretty gentle and funny, really likes to swim. We have made NO plans for shore excursions or on-boat activites yet, but know we are in early dining (thank goodness!) .

We are early risers, also and pretty strict with regard to behavior, potty words, sharing, good manners, like yes ma'am/sir, thank you, etc. etc. etc. Would love to meet some other families, with playmates for him, esp. other parents with just 1, to give another only child a chance to "connect" with someone else, maybe even in advance, to give them both something to look forward to!

OK I probably exceeded any reasonable "first post" etiquette or limit, so apologies in advance and thanks for reading and see all of you come November.

MavenMom

Where in Virginia? I grew up in Roanoke but now live in upstate NY. We are a single child family too - our son will be almost three at the time of the trip and is "day care savvy" as well. We definitely would love to get together! We also believe in good manners as well. Maybe we could exchange email or regular addresses so the boys could send a little something to each other to show what each are like - like photos or something.

[ssbeari]

I just found this thread. We are also cruising this date. First time cruise for me, my DH, DD, and DS. We are also cruising with my father and mother. and are very excited. My parents have been on the disney cruise before and loved it. We have been saving forever for this trip. We wanted to also wait a little while for my DS to turn 4 so he could really enjoy every bit of it.

Need to look into the Fish Extended idea but would be interested in doing that also. Sounds like a lot of fun.

Looking forward to it.
sheri

[mavenmom]

Thanks, Beth, Kimberly

We are in Richmond area. Kimberly, would love to meet your son, and also,

Sheri, I heard you say just now you have a 4 year old son. :banana:

And Pegs sons are right around mine.

We are happy to trade some pics, maybe email before hand so they know who to look for at a meetup or the pool, playcare, etc. I went to join the Facebook link in a previous thread but think I got rejected, as it was pending for me to join, then disappeared. I can't PM yet, I don't think.

It is sort of overwhelming for us, November. I'ts going to be a crazy month. I have a business trip the two before Thanksgiving up in DC. Then, I get back Friday, 19th, and my son's birthday party is on Saturday. Monday is his actual birthday so just he and I will do something, then work a couple days before Thanksgiving. Off for Thanksgiving, then a day or two to pack and get on the road, before needing to be in Fla by Sunday, 28th. So much to still do. We didnt realize a child needed a passport, nor did we realize BOTH parents have to go to get one, and that it takes an appointment at the post office. So, hope to get that done next Saturday morning.

We arent sure where we should stop and stay on the way, like push and get to Cape Canaveral a day early and stay there Sat night or stop in SC/GA, half it up. We heard there is a lot of traffic on cruise days.

We don't quite understand the dining yet, like do you disappoint your assigned dining mates if you decide to do your own thing? Also, have no idea on the shore excursion in Bahamas. Some things sound fun but it all sounds so expensive. Lots of choices. I just don't want to run nonstop from thing to thing and not have a moment's peace, all the events and shows and dining times pushing us to get places, either on board or off ship. KWIM?

DS Says: 0000ggggfffrggggt444434DDDE3WWSASAAAA:grouphug:

[smartkim]

It is my understanding that kids don't need a passport, a certified birth certificate is fine. Can anyone else answer this for definite?

[ssbeari]

You do definitely need a passport for every person traveling. even children. go to passport.gov for more info.

and we are from richmond also. we are leaving on the 19th doing 7 days at disney world 3 days at universal and then getting on the boat on the 28th :) for a much needed 2 week whirlwind trip.

[RadioFanatic]

are you sure? I was told a certified birth certificate was enough as well since the cruise starts and ends in the U.S.

[RadioFanatic]

Also, have no idea on the shore excursion in Bahamas. Some things sound fun but it all sounds so expensive. Lots of choices. I just don't want to run nonstop from thing to thing and not have a moment's peace, all the events and shows and dining times pushing us to get places, either on board or off ship. KWIM?

DS Says: 0000ggggfffrggggt444434DDDE3WWSASAAAA:grouphug:

I'm looking at these two options for Bahamas because our son loves the beach but I don't want to spend a ton of money. The first is $50 per adult, however, that includes $30 in food/drink vouchers. Also, it's VERY close to the boat, i.e. walking distance.

http://bahamascruiseexcursions.com/NassauHiltonResortPass.htm

The second is also $50 and all inclusive, but you have to drive/boat to it:

http://www.bahamascruiseexcursions.com/ParadiseIslandResort.htm

[mavenmom]

The first is $50 per adult, however, that includes $30 in food/drink vouchers. Also, it's VERY close to the boat, i.e. walking distance.



Thanks, this one looks really good for a relaxing beach day, with a good food voucher for adults and kids. I like that it is close by and a known brand.

While I want to see Nassau, am I the only one that doesnt want to try to strap my 5 year old into some van, bus or cab with no carseat??? Maybe a Disney bus ( I know $$) but not some cabbie!! The ferry that takes you to the other side of the island seems safer to me, not sure why? And a fun ride, if you don't have a boat ride planned. But I worry about getting back on time, worry about getting lost on the other side of the island, missing the ferry back, etc. If it was up to DH, we would take some jugaboo jeep ride through the slums and backroads of the island, sweating and holding on for dear life to get to eat at some authentic restaurant where we get some intestinal bug with our local "flavor".

We looked at all the ones Disney sponsors on the cruise website, and for the glass bottom boat one, the little kids couldnt see@!! In every picture, the parents are holding kids up to see the glass bottom part. Wow that sounds like a sucky multi hour boat ride, taking turns holding up a 40 lb kid to see down into a hole on the boat. The one that goes semi-under water seemed at least better for seeing but it looked so big on top, small on the bottom, is your time "under" limited. Maybe an animal encounter, turtles, sea lions? Mine is too young for stingrays or dolphins and wow, the $. :sad2:

What is everyone else doing? :confused: Those who have been there before, what do you recommend? :idea: Many said lots of walking, significant walking etc, which wouldnt be the best way to start the day, with kids. Also, is Nassau right around the port crawling in people selling things and begging and hassling you to take their tour, etc like some places (Cancun comes to mind). :scared1:

[mavenmom]

and we are from richmond also.

hi Sheri, was trying to PM you but cant as I am too new. Maybe we could trade emails, since we are both in Richmond area. That is a pretty cool coincidence, as we also have sons, a year apart I think, and crusing at same time, etc. Maybe could meet up sometime at Cartwheels N Coffee or something !

[tigger30066]

Thanks, this one looks really good for a relaxing beach day, with a good food voucher for adults and kids. I like that it is close by and a known brand.

While I want to see Nassau, am I the only one that doesnt want to try to strap my 5 year old into some van, bus or cab with no carseat??? Maybe a Disney bus ( I know $$) but not some cabbie!! The ferry that takes you to the other side of the island seems safer to me, not sure why? And a fun ride, if you don't have a boat ride planned. But I worry about getting back on time, worry about getting lost on the other side of the island, missing the ferry back, etc. If it was up to DH, we would take some jugaboo jeep ride through the slums and backroads of the island, sweating and holding on for dear life to get to eat at some authentic restaurant where we get some intestinal bug with our local "flavor".

We looked at all the ones Disney sponsors on the cruise website, and for the glass bottom boat one, the little kids couldnt see@!! In every picture, the parents are holding kids up to see the glass bottom part. Wow that sounds like a sucky multi hour boat ride, taking turns holding up a 40 lb kid to see down into a hole on the boat. The one that goes semi-under water seemed at least better for seeing but it looked so big on top, small on the bottom, is your time "under" limited. Maybe an animal encounter, turtles, sea lions? Mine is too young for stingrays or dolphins and wow, the $. :sad2:

What is everyone else doing? :confused: Those who have been there before, what do you recommend? :idea: Many said lots of walking, significant walking etc, which wouldnt be the best way to start the day, with kids. Also, is Nassau right around the port crawling in people selling things and begging and hassling you to take their tour, etc like some places (Cancun comes to mind). :scared1:

We are doing the sea lion encounter. Of course we are adults, but that one looked the best to us.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Also, is Nassau right around the port crawling in people selling things and begging and hassling you to take their tour, etc like some places (Cancun comes to mind). :scared1:

Most definitely! And be glad you have a boy--the women wanting to braid your hair are sometimes pushier than the cabbies/vendors/tour operators! Our recommendation for Nassau? Stay on the boat and enjoy some less crowded pool time! Personally, I commandeer one of those WONDERFUL padded loungers on deck 4 facing the water and immerse myself in a good book. We've been to Nassau twice and were not impressed. Altho' we have not done the Aquarium out at Atlantis and I've heard it's really, really nice.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

are you sure? I was told a certified birth certificate was enough as well since the cruise starts and ends in the U.S.

Kimberly, that is true, as long as all proceeds according to plan. The exception allowing children to travel on a certified birth certificate on closed-loop cruises (beginning and ending in the US) applies to sea travel only. But, God forbid, if something happens and you would have to fly back to the US from the Bahamas. With regards to AIR travel, according to the State Dept & Dept of Homeland Security :

"The United States Government currently requires all U.S. citizens, including children, arriving from countries outside the Western Hemisphere to provide a passport when entering the United States. IRTPA, as amended, does not contain a general exemption from providing a passport or other document designated by DHS for children under the age of 16 when entering the United States from Western Hemisphere countries. Consequently, children under the age of 16 arriving from Western Hemisphere countries will be required to present a passport when entering the United States by air. Requiring passports for children departing from or entering the United States will also assist the U.S. Government, as well as foreign governments within the Western Hemisphere, to prevent child abductions. "

Again, this is specifically for AIR travel. You should be fine with just the birth certificate 99.99% of the time. It's that 0.01% chance that scares me.

[ssbeari]

mavenmom- sorry i dont know what im doing on here so i hope you get this. We live in glen allen. Ive never heard of cartwheels and coffee but sounds good and Id love to meet. Just let me know. if you facebook, my face book is sheri hyman allen, and we could catch up that way.

radiofanatic- sorry i dont want to give any wrong info on passport stuff. you can read all the guidlines at passport.gov if your not comfy with any of it. I just figured i would rather be safe than sorry. my kids at 10 and 4 so we went ahead and ordered passports. it was an addl expense but i dont want to have any problems on our trip.

still counting down the days. cant wait. :flower3:

[ssbeari]

sorry, being new I dont know what im doing on here with stuff. so im sorry if i type something in the wrong place.

[ssbeari]

this is from the getyouhome website
"Closed Loop" Cruises: U.S. citizens who board a cruise ship at a port within the United States, travel only within the Western Hemisphere, and return to the same U.S. port on the same ship may present a government issued photo identification, along with proof of citizenship (an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization). Please be aware that you may still be required to present a passport to enter the foreign countries your cruise ship is visiting. Check with your cruise line to ensure you have the appropriate documents.

[RadioFanatic]

Thanks, this one looks really good for a relaxing beach day, with a good food voucher for adults and kids. I like that it is close by and a known brand.

While I want to see Nassau, am I the only one that doesnt want to try to strap my 5 year old into some van, bus or cab with no carseat??? Maybe a Disney bus ( I know $$) but not some cabbie!! The ferry that takes you to the other side of the island seems safer to me, not sure why? And a fun ride, if you don't have a boat ride planned. But I worry about getting back on time, worry about getting lost on the other side of the island, missing the ferry back, etc. If it was up to DH, we would take some jugaboo jeep ride through the slums and backroads of the island, sweating and holding on for dear life to get to eat at some authentic restaurant where we get some intestinal bug with our local "flavor".

We looked at all the ones Disney sponsors on the cruise website, and for the glass bottom boat one, the little kids couldnt see@!! In every picture, the parents are holding kids up to see the glass bottom part. Wow that sounds like a sucky multi hour boat ride, taking turns holding up a 40 lb kid to see down into a hole on the boat. The one that goes semi-under water seemed at least better for seeing but it looked so big on top, small on the bottom, is your time "under" limited. Maybe an animal encounter, turtles, sea lions? Mine is too young for stingrays or dolphins and wow, the $. :sad2:

What is everyone else doing? :confused: Those who have been there before, what do you recommend? :idea: Many said lots of walking, significant walking etc, which wouldnt be the best way to start the day, with kids. Also, is Nassau right around the port crawling in people selling things and begging and hassling you to take their tour, etc like some places (Cancun comes to mind). :scared1:

I totally agree. That's why I'm leaning towards the hilton thing. We were just in orlando and had to take a taxi and I made dh wait for one that had a car seat. He kept saying nothing ever happens but I said it only takes once!

[mavenmom]

mavenmom- sorry i dont know what im doing on here so i hope you get this. We live in glen allen. Ive never heard of cartwheels and coffee but sounds good and Id love to meet. Just let me know. if you facebook, my face book is sheri hyman allen, and we could catch up that way.

radiofanatic- sorry i dont want to give any wrong info on passport stuff. you can read all the guidlines at passport.gov if your not comfy with any of it. I just figured i would rather be safe than sorry. my kids at 10 and 4 so we went ahead and ordered passports. it was an addl expense but i dont want to have any problems on our trip.

still counting down the days. cant wait. :flower3:

Hi Sheri, we are in Mechanicsville

Cartwheels and Coffee is a coffee house with play area for the kids, next to Byrd Theatre downtown. We sometimes go there on weekends. For the under 5 crowd to play, but tons in the area to occupy an older child if they can be patient and have a snack for a bit, first. :yay: Including a super cool toy store across the street.

w w w . cartwheels and coffee .com without the spaces (this silly site won't let me put a link, yet)

I will check you out on facebook, try to friend you or whatever. I am new to that and not very good, as I have proven by not being able to join the thread for this group on there. :confused3

As for the passport, we are going the safe route, were planning on getting one anways, because we are planning a trip to see family in Germany next spring so our son will need it then. Also, isn't the Bahamas a foreign country? I mean, the websites says that if you go on a cruise that starts and ends in US but does that mean you can get on and off in Bahamas w/o one? I don't worry about getting OFF as much as back on!

Also, what if we hit bad weather or rough seas and pulled into some other island, etc. I know, highly unlikely, I am just thinking of my bad luck, usually. My last big trip I was headed through Paris to Berlin and somehow got redirected to Stockholm, where I was put on a tiny smoking-allowed flight to Berlin. And, I had to pull my bags off and recheck them, and go through customs twice, because of going through Sweden unexpectedly. All in an airport I didnt speak the language. :confused:

DH was keen on the idea of staying on the boat in Bahamas, maybe getting off briefly to go to something nearby, like the Hilton someone suggested, for lunch or just :confused:some solid ground time, in case we are seasick at all.

[RadioFanatic]

Just wanted to bump bc I just paid it off :cool1: Tomorrow is the 75 day mark which means signing up for "stuff". Anyone signing up for things? what? I really don't know yet and need to do research tonight.

[tigger30066]

Just wanted to bump bc I just paid it off :cool1: Tomorrow is the 75 day mark which means signing up for "stuff". Anyone signing up for things? what? I really don't know yet and need to do research tonight.

So excited for you. I was so happy when I paid mine off. We are doing the sea lion in Nassau and the rain forest room in the spa. Is it time to go yet? :confused3

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Whoo-hoo Kimberly! Congrats on being PIF!!! Can't wait to hear what you decide on for excursions. That Hilton Resort pass sounded like a great deal with the food/drink voucher.

...We are doing the sea lion in Nassau and the rain forest room in the spa. Is it time to go yet? :confused3

Ooooo, Becky, you will LOVE the Rainforest Room!!! I was so relaxed after my time in that wonderful chair. Felt kinda like that wicked witch, "I'm Melting!!!" Yep, I was melted, alright!

Think I'm going to stick with my snorkeling at Castaway. DH is considering renting a bike and tootling around the island. We plan to enjoy the peace and quiet on the ship while in Nassau.

[RadioFanatic]

I'm now looking at the dolphin encounter on blue lagoon. I'm annoyed though bc if I book through disney, it's $125 pp for dh and I and I would have to pay $45 for Isaac not to do anything bc through disney, he is not allowed to do the encounter - but it won't let me book that way - and $295. But if I go through the site directly, it is only $98 pp for dh and I; and not only would Isaac be allowed to do it, he would be free - so for almost $100 less, all of us could do it and not just the adults.

[mavenmom]

Anyone signing up for things? what? I really don't know yet and need to do research tonight.

We signed up for the semi-sub ride in Nassau, might do that with teh Hilton beach day. We also signed up for a night of dinner at Palo but I have a question.

We don't want to miss any of the ship restaurants. And since there are three of them I think we will get to eat in all three, then repeat one night? We want to go to Palo on THAT night, the repeat night? But how do I figure that out, or even can I figure that out? Right now, we have it as the last night, figuring we wouldnt repeat til the end? Day at sea dinner that night? Is that right? That would be our repeat night no matter what, right?

Also, how do I get my son fed that night? like we can eat at a quickie restaurant or order him cabin service, before sending him to play and going to dinner? And what is the dress, realistically for Palo dinner?

We didnt sign up for anything at Castaway Cay, as all we really want is to maybe float in innertubes, etc. should I really reserve intertubes? Floats? 2 months in advance, or do they have enough and we can wing it?

Lastly, what rainforest chair/room? I dont see that on the spa list? The spa list sounds expensive, so far.

Sorry to be such a pest with questions.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Sorry to be such a pest with questions.

No apologies needed!! We have all been first timers and full of questions at least once in our lives! I probably had twice as many questions before we took our first cruise.

First of all, you will receive your dining rotation when you check in at the port on Sunday. It will be printed on your KTTW card and may look like this: TAAP Which means Triton's the first nite, Animator's Palette the 2nd & 3rd nites and Parrot Cay the last nite. DH tells me the 2nd & 3rd nites are always the repeats on a 4-nighter. This is because one of those nights, the restaurant will be serving the special Pirate Night menu, while the other night will be the regular menu. I believe Pirate Night is the same day we do Castaway Cay.

There is a good chance you can change your Palo ressie, if you wish. Check the Navigator you receive at check in. It will tell you where and when you can make/change Palo ressies. Last I heard, it was at Wavebands between 1 and 3:30pm. While there may be no availability online, they always hold back some reservations for boarding day. Recommend you get there as close to 1:00 as possible, because they go fast!

Another thought is to do brunch instead of dinner, so you can still experience all 4 dinner menus in the regular restaurants. Palo's will serve both breakfast-type food and many of the entrees from the dinner menu. Brunch is on sea day and Palo's dress code is slightly more casual for that. While jeans, shorts, or tank tops are never allowed, brunch dress is pretty much cruise casual. DH wore khakis and a nice polo shirt (tucked in) and I wore white slacks with a sort of fancy short-sleeved sweater. Dinner dress is jacket, button-down shirt (tie optional) & dress slacks for men, dresses or nice pantsuits for women. Formal wear is welcome, they say. Recently, I've heard they've relaxed a bit and the jacket for men is not enforced for dinner as long as he's wearing a dress shirt, with or without a tie.

There are several options for feeding the little guy if you are going to do a Palo dinner. You can order room service, you can take him up to Beach Blanket Buffet or to any of the counter service places. Depending on what time your Palo ressie is for, you may even be able to go to your regular rotational dining restaurant and just enjoy your tablemates and let him eat there. Even easier is to leave him at the kid's club and let them feed him! Talk to the counselors ahead of time and they will explain how it is handled.

Castaway Cay has PLENTY of inner tubes and floats--you don't HAVE to reserve in advance. But don't wait till afternoon, either.

Ahhhh, the chairs in the rainforest room!!!! Check it out: http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/ships-activities/ships/wonder/fitness-spa/vista-spa-salon/ Click on the black button that says slide show and choose the 4th picture from the left on the top row. The chairs are on the left in the picture. That is the Rainforest Room! The lighting is actually a little dimmer than shown and it's like a little corner of heaven!! The chairs are heated and soooo relaxing. During the boarding process (like noon to 3:30ish) you can visit the spa and they will offer you a complete tour. There will be plenty of slots available for the Rainforest Room, manicures, pedicures, even hair appointments. So you don't absolutely have to make an advance reservation.

[mannpeg729]

Booked palo brunch today and read over everything on the website! Will need another reading before we can decide what else we want to prearrange!! Can we just relax the whole time????:)

[thor205]

Hi All!
YES!! I am most definitely here and interested in the FE!
My gosh I keep forgetting to check in here so now I posted a note on my computer to remind me. Crazy life anyway!:surfweb:

So our group will be me - Ro, DH - Brian, Son - Sean 12, son Nick - 3 1/2 and my parents. This is our 1st Dis Cruise - DH and I honeymooned on Carnival but honestly it was nice but the ship was very old (I think it was retired the next year!) and I probably wouldn't want to do it again. I'm glad to hear Disney will be a better trip!

I'm thinking right now that we will stay on board at Nassau for lots of reasons! But we'll do castaway Cay - Sean and DH want to do jet skis and maybe I'll take Nick to the beach. Nothing is set in stone I'm wingin' it right now! Not interested in Palo this time around but I'm sure I'll be back in a year or 2 - already planning!

I'm planning to go right to the pool when we board and eat there - deck 9. THen check out the kids clubs before we have to do the muster drill. Anyone know what time the drill usually happens and what time they start the bon voyage party and set sail?

Going to start getting some of our magnets and FE stuff ready - can you repost the list of FE people again? I'll go back and reread it but I want to get an email notification so I can easily locate this thread next time.
Woohoo - 72 days now? I lost count lol

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Yeah!!! So good to hear from you again, Rosemary! Was beginning to think maybe you had to cancel, so I'm very, very happy to hear you will still be with us on the cruise! I think this is a perfect time to re-post the FE list!!

Peg (mannpeg729)
DH-Brian
DS (6) Harlem
DS (4) Houston
#6560

Kim (smartkim)
DH-Lee
DS-Kyle (17)
DS-Josh (13)
#6055 (subj. to verification LOL!)

Becky (tigger30066)
Julie (friend-adult)
#7119

Me-Beth (CrazyBoutDisney)
DH-Dave
#6099

You-Kimberly (RadioFanatic)
DH-Mark
DS-Isaac (almost 3 on the cruise)
#5520

Ro (thor205)
DH-Brian
DS-Sean (12)
DS-Nick (3 1/2)
DGFfor
DGM
#5022

Your stateroom number hasn't changed, has it, Ro? I've been trying to keep track as folks have joined the thread and provided their numbers.

We head straight up to the buffet for lunch, too, as soon as we board the ship. Maybe we should plan a meet there on deck 9! Most everything shuts down about 3:30 so everybody can prepare for the muster drill which takes place around 3:45 or so. That's followed by the Adventures Away party that starts about 4:15.

We are driving ourselves to the port, so we'll be there early and could snag a table or 2 out on the back deck behind the buffet for a meet, if ya'll want. For those of you who haven't been on the ship before, it's all the way through the restaurant, at the very back end (stern) and it's partially covered, so we could have shade. Alternatively, we could meet in the Promenade Lounge on Deck 3 in the air conditioning. That's a left turn at the far end of the Atrium, where you are welcomed aboard.

Should we have a vote or could I get some input from ya'll about when and where to hold our little meet and greet?

[thor205]

Beth yep we're still in the same cabin!

Meeting on Deck 9 sounds good to me! We're just winging it since we don't really know what to expect... so I'm thinking we'll grab lunch and swim a bit then head down to the kids club to meet and greet before the drill.

[tigger30066]

We are working on our FE and were wondering what the grandparents names are, and what the kids call them?

[thor205]

Hi
Grandparents are Emily (Grammy) and Larry (Papa)

I've got to get crackin on some FE ideas!

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Becky, thanx for asking that question!! I think this calls for an FE update

Peg (mannpeg729)
DH-Brian
DS (6) Harlem
DS (4) Houston
#6560

Kim (smartkim)
DH-Lee
DS-Kyle (17)
DS-Josh (13)
#6055 (subj. to verification LOL!)

Becky (tigger30066)
Julie (friend-adult)
#7119

Me-Beth (CrazyBoutDisney)
DH-Dave
#6099

You-Kimberly (RadioFanatic)
DH-Mark
DS-Isaac (almost 3 on the cruise)
#5520

Ro (thor205)
DH-Brian
DS-Sean (12)
DS-Nick (3 1/2)
DGF-Larry (Papa)
DGM-Emily (Grammy)
#5022

You guys gotta be sure and post something about the FEs on Oct 4t or so. I had to pack everything up and stow it away because we are expecting houseguests on Oct 3rd. Not sure if it's early senility or what, but with the luck I've had lately, I'll forget to get the stuff back out and finish them! ;)

[RadioFanatic]

I would love to meet but am taking the Magical express from BLT to the port so I'm afraid I'll be too late.

Also, what are the teens into these days? (geez I sound old saying that!) I don't want to get them something "lame" (do they still say that?)

Also, who is doing the early dinner? Should we try to get a DIS table together?

[RadioFanatic]

BTW, I've booked Palo brunch and then dolphin encounter. I may not do the brunch bc we really want to stay together as a family since dh and I both work, but we'll see. When is the last minute I can drop it without a penalty? And if I decide to, can I switch it to one of you if you want it? It's for 11 am.

[tigger30066]

We are doing early dining. I posted a thread about teens and FE on the cruise boards.

[lsjones]

**

[CrazyBoutDisney]

We are thinking of booking and would like to know when your cut off date is for the FE Exchange?? Want to make sure we make it in time!

Welcome aboard, I hope!! You have plenty of time--I'm not going to cut off the FE signups until Nov. 5. That will still leave a full 3 weeks for everybody to get things together and still have a couple of days for packing. :thumbsup2

...who is doing the early dinner? Should we try to get a DIS table together?

Now that sounds like a great idea! That would certainly solve the problem of when and where to meet. We're doing early dining--count us in! We'll have to exchange full names to give to our TA or DCL, whoever did the booking. But we can do that via PM. :scratchin I wonder if we could get a table for 20 or so?!!! :faint:

[RadioFanatic]

Now that sounds like a great idea! That would certainly solve the problem of when and where to meet. We're doing early dining--count us in! We'll have to exchange full names to give to our TA or DCL, whoever did the booking. But we can do that via PM. :scratchin I wonder if we could get a table for 20 or so?!!! :faint:

that was my thought too! I'm more than happy to pm my info to you - just let me know!

[CrazyBoutDisney]

PM on it's way, Kimberly!

Anybody else up for sharing a table on the early dining rotation?

[iwannagoback]

We have been looking into this trip and are hoping to join you!! We have a dd 13 and a dd 9. This would be a second trip for our family.

[iwannagoback]

Hi again! So, do you guys have a theme or name for this cruise? There are some very creative names out there! It would be fun to have one to add to our shirts. Any ideas??

[tigger30066]

Does anyone have any food allergies on the FE list? Just want to make sure I do not hurt anyone while they are on vacation. :)

[RadioFanatic]

60 days until the cruise - YEAAH!!! Anyone else want to join the early dining DIS table?

[CrazyBoutDisney]

We have been looking into this trip and are hoping to join you!! We have a dd 13 and a dd 9. This would be a second trip for our family.

Are we welcoming you aboard yet, or are you still up in the air about booking this trip? You know you NEED this cruise and we'd LOVE to have you join us!!! Besides, we need you to come up with a name for us!

Kimberly, did you receive my PM? I need your info to give to my TA, too. :woohoo: we're in the single digits at LESS THAN 9 WEEKS!!!!

Becky, would you and Julie like to join the DIS table? We're trying to make it happen!

[mannpeg729]

we'd love to join a dis table but we stuck with the later dining option.... you guys enjoy! :goodvibes

[tigger30066]

We are not sure what dining we are doing. Right now we have late.

[mannpeg729]

Just needed to share with those involved in the FE exchange that our 6 ur old son will not be able to join us on the cruise. He has some serious challenges and is just not capable of handling all the stimulation that the vacation will create. I just wanted to let everyone know so they aren't providing a gift for a child who is not on board. If it weren't for our 4 yr old son and his excitement we might have changed the date but he has worked really hard on some of his own challenges and has certainly earned this treat.

Thanks for your understanding.

[tigger30066]

Just needed to share with those involved in the FE exchange that our 6 ur old son will not be able to join us on the cruise. He has some serious challenges and is just not capable of handling all the stimulation that the vacation will create. I just wanted to let everyone know so they aren't providing a gift for a child who is not on board. If it weren't for our 4 yr old son and his excitement we might have changed the date but he has worked really hard on some of his own challenges and has certainly earned this treat.

Thanks for your understanding.

Of course we understand. Would it be ok to put FE gifts for him for you to take home to him, or would you rather us not. I totally understand whichever way is best for your family.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Just needed to share with those involved in the FE exchange that our 6 ur old son will not be able to join us on the cruise. He has some serious challenges and is just not capable of handling all the stimulation that the vacation will create. I just wanted to let everyone know so they aren't providing a gift for a child who is not on board. If it weren't for our 4 yr old son and his excitement we might have changed the date but he has worked really hard on some of his own challenges and has certainly earned this treat.

Thanks for your understanding.

:hug::hug: and one for him, too :hug: If it's OK, I'd like to keep him on my FE list, too. I'm betting you will know when it would be best to give him his goodies. And kudos to (let me check my list.....) Houston, for his hard work!!!

[iwannagoback]

Haha! I'll think of a name! Just trying to get the vacation approved, hopefully next week. Anyone doing a Back 2 Back on this trip?? We are tossing around the idea, read pages of pros and cons on here, still haven't made a decision. Ideas??

[RadioFanatic]

We would also still like to include him in the FE. We aren't doing back to back on board bc we will be in WDW on both ends.

[RadioFanatic]

Could everyone in the FE pm me your family's last name? It's for the presents - if you don't mind! thanks!

[mannpeg729]

i can't tell you how much it means for all of you to care for us in this way... to include Harlem even though he can't make it means a bunch! you might imagine that it is hard for a mom to picture this kind of vacation without both of her kiddos!!! when he's ready, we will definitely be going again! it is generous and kind of you to be willing to include him! it will be special to take him some special gifts home and let him know other people were thinking of him too! thank you, thank you!!!

[tigger30066]

Could everyone in the FE pm me your family's last name? It's for the presents - if you don't mind! thanks!

I send a PM with our last names, but I don't think it went thru.

Becky Knight
Julie McCray

[CrazyBoutDisney]

8 weeks!!!

[tigger30066]

8 weeks!!!

yes!!!!!

[smartkim]

When will we have a final FE list (or can anyone hop on at anytime?)? I just don't want to leave anyone out and want to make sure that I buy enough supplies. ;)

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Anyone doing a Back 2 Back on this trip?? We are tossing around the idea, read pages of pros and cons on here, still haven't made a decision.

We're doing B2B--even managed to get the same room for both!! Still got my fingers crossed for ya to get that vaca approval! Here's some pixie dust, too :wizard::wizard:

When will we have a final FE list (or can anyone hop on at anytime?)? I just don't want to leave anyone out and want to make sure that I buy enough supplies. ;)

I don't plan to close the list to new sign ups until Nov 4th. New folks are joining the thread just about every week and we may get more, the closer the cruise gets. In any case, here's where we stand at the moment:

Peg (mannpeg729)
DH-Brian
DS (6) Harlem
DS (4) Houston
#6560
Note: although Mom & Dad have decided Harlem's health is not where it needs to be in order to come on the cruise, several of us are still bringing something for him, so I've left his name on the list.

Kim (smartkim)
DH-Lee
DS-Kyle (17)
DS-Josh (13)
#6055

Becky (tigger30066)
Julie (friend-adult)
#7119

Me-Beth (CrazyBoutDisney)
DH-Dave
#6099

Kimberly (RadioFanatic)
DH-Mark
DS-Isaac (almost 3 on the cruise)
#5520

Ro (thor205)
DH-Brian
DS-Sean (12)
DS-Nick (3 1/2)
DGF-Larry
DGM-Emily
#5022

[RadioFanatic]

so I got smartkim, mannpeg and tigger's names (thanks!) I just need the rest who are doing FE!

Is it possible to maybe make the timing 10/31 as the deadline for the FE? I have to order some things and want to make sure I have enough time to get them in - thanks!

[thor205]

We're doing FE also!

Just booked our hotel pre-cruise - getting psyched! 54 days!!

[RadioFanatic]

We're doing FE also!

Just booked our hotel pre-cruise - getting psyched! 54 days!!

is your name in your sig? I want it to make an FE. If not, could you pm it to me? thanks!

[thor205]

Yes my name is Ro! The rest of the names are in the post above with the FE list :)

[RadioFanatic]

Yes my name is Ro! The rest of the names are in the post above with the FE list :)

sorry to be confusing - I meant last name - is it Thornton?

[mavenmom]

Ok first, havent been online in a while, but getting psyched about our cruise. We went to the online cruise dashboard today to put our passports in and noticed a link at the bottom, to have Micked or some other Disney character call your child and talk about the cruise. Weird didnt ask his name but did ask Ship name, destination etc. And, they could be scheduled in advance and were free, so something cool, for your kid(s) to get a personalized call from Mickey about the cruise. Keep their good behavior up, I hope, like Santa!

Second, a question. We went to onboard gifts, dd-ons and extras and noticed that you can get a giftcard for $15 for the the Rain Forest Room or lounge or spa. Is that all that costs? I never see it on the SPA and FITNESS list of things to book, so does it have to be booked in advance. If not showing up on list, is it all booked up? Is that where they have the cool chairs, as it appears to be from the picture beside the add-on offer.

Here is what website says. Let me know if it really is $15 for an all day pass, how to reserve going in that and why anyone would ever leave that room LOL :rotfl: I know I don't NEED a giftcard, just how to get in.

Rain Forest 1-Day Pass
Item SPA RAIN PKG, $15

Enjoy a one-day pass for the blissfully relaxing Rain Forest. Receive a gift message card in your stateroom to redeem at the Vista Spa & Salon. (A $1 service fee will be charged.)

Anyone considering or stayed at Ron Jon resort, in Cocoa Beach? We have a few days, post cruise, to kick back and relax. Let me know if you have, what you think, recommendations or warnings. :confused:
TIA!

[RadioFanatic]

I still need Smartkim's last name - please PM me!

[smartkim]

I still need Smartkim's last name - please PM me!

PM'D! Let me know if you didn't get it.

[RadioFanatic]

got it - thanks!

[RadioFanatic]

I finished my FE gifts - yippy! I can't wait to see the final product once they come in.

[Angelhalo]

Hi gang. Haven't checked in here in ages. DH and I are booked on this cruise and my old college roomie is also booked in her own room. We're not joining in on the FE, but we're definitely joined in on the excitement! :cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1:

[tigger30066]

I finished my FE gifts - yippy! I can't wait to see the final product once they come in.

I am so excited. Our FE are almost complete. :yay:

[RadioFanatic]

I am so excited. Our FE are almost complete. :yay:

Yeah us!:cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1:

[CrazyBoutDisney]

5 weeks from Sunday!!!
I'm getting so excited, I can't even count the days anymore!!

[tigger30066]

5 weeks from Sunday!!!
I'm getting so excited, I can't even count the days anymore!!

We leave 5 weeks from today. After we eat turkey we are on the way. I am so excited. 35 more sleeps.

[RadioFanatic]

We leave 5 weeks from today. After we eat turkey we are on the way. I am so excited. 35 more sleeps.

we are leaving on thanksgiving - we gave up turkey for mickey which is JUST fine by us!

[tigger30066]

Has anybody gotten their information in the mail yet? I think we are suppose to get it soon. Just curious.

[RadioFanatic]

not me. has anyone gotten an upgrade?

[mannpeg729]

after a LONG, frustrating, depressing day guess who came home to find her cruise documents and luggage tags in the mail?????

:banana:us!!!!! :banana:

we leave 4 weeks from tomorrow to start our drive south!!!! not a minute too soon!:yay::yay::yay:

[tigger30066]

after a LONG, frustrating, depressing day guess who came home to find her cruise documents and luggage tags in the mail?????

:banana:us!!!!! :banana:

we leave 4 weeks from tomorrow to start our drive south!!!! not a minute too soon!:yay::yay::yay:

So Happy for you. What a great way to end the day. I emailed my TA today and she said ours were mailed on the 23rd. I am so excited. We spent 3 hours tonight printing our magnets for our door. I can not wait only 31 more sleeps until we leave. :)

[CrazyBoutDisney]

We got our cruise docs today, too!!! Hang in there, Becky--yours will be delivered any day!! Can't wait to see your door, too. I'm still working on our magnets.

And :hug: for you, Peg. I know just what you mean about those long, frustrating and depressing days. Hope things look up for you soon!

[RadioFanatic]

us too! and my FE and magnets are being delivered! Becky, is there special magnet paper you can get? and can you use it on any printer?

[tigger30066]

Kimberly
I got the magnetic paper at Staples, but all office type stores have it. It only works with inkjet printer and it is kinda expensive. We are only printing a couple of large signs, 8.5 x 11, and the rest we are printing on regular paper and then having them laminated at school box( a local store for teachers) We are then going to use the magnetic tape on the back. Hopefully that helps. BTW we also have a magnetic board so all of our DIS friends can leave us a message on our door, or hopefully a special mouse might leave us a note. :thumbsup2

[BealsRwe]

DH, DD, & I are thinking of joining this cruise. My Mom (age 62) passed away in June of ovarian cancer. My Dad (age 67) moved in with us a month ago, and he is now under the care of hospice, and we are his primary caregivers. He has terminal lymphoma. We took a 5 day trip on the Wonder in August, but knowing my Dad will not be here more than a few weeks, we are contemplating another cruise. DCL is my happy place. It's either this one or a 7 day on 11/27. We will be booking last minute as we don't know what is happening with my Dad.

My favorite song right now is by the Zac Brown Band...I Wanna Go Where the Boat Leaves From

There's a place, where the boat leaves
from

It takes away all your big problems

You got worries you can drop them in the blue ocean

But you gotta get away to where the boat leaves from

Take one part sand, and one part sea, one part shade of a
big palm tree.....

If we book, I will be sure to post and say hi. If we do book within the next week or 2, would we be able to jump in on the FE? I know it's last minute, so I understand if it's not ok. I won't know until Dad passes away which cruise we are going to jump on to get away. (Our FE gifts that we gave out in August are picture below-adult and girl versions)

[tigger30066]

DH, DD, & I are thinking of joining this cruise. My Mom (age 62) passed away in June of ovarian cancer. My Dad (age 67) moved in with us a month ago, and he is now under the care of hospice, and we are his primary caregivers. He has terminal lymphoma. We took a 5 day trip on the Wonder in August, but knowing my Dad will not be here more than a few weeks, we are contemplating another cruise. DCL is my happy place. It's either this one or a 7 day on 11/27. We will be booking last minute as we don't know what is happening with my Dad.

My favorite song right now is by the Zac Brown Band...I Wanna Go Where the Boat Leaves From

There's a place, where the boat leaves
from

It takes away all your big problems

You got worries you can drop them in the blue ocean

But you gotta get away to where the boat leaves from

Take one part sand, and one part sea, one part shade of a
big palm tree.....

If we book, I will be sure to post and say hi. If we do book within the next week or 2, would we be able to jump in on the FE? I know it's last minute, so I understand if it's not ok. I won't know until Dad passes away which cruise we are going to jump on to get away. (Our FE gifts that we gave out in August are picture below-adult and girl versions)

I am not in charge of the FE but I think she is keeping it open until the 4th. I can only speak for myself, but we have a couple of extra adult FE gifts, and would love to make a little princess FE ( we only have little pirates so far). Just post back and let us know your plans.

Keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers during this rough time for you.


Becky

[RadioFanatic]

DH, DD, & I are thinking of joining this cruise. My Mom (age 62) passed away in June of ovarian cancer. My Dad (age 67) moved in with us a month ago, and he is now under the care of hospice, and we are his primary caregivers. He has terminal lymphoma. We took a 5 day trip on the Wonder in August, but knowing my Dad will not be here more than a few weeks, we are contemplating another cruise. DCL is my happy place. It's either this one or a 7 day on 11/27. We will be booking last minute as we don't know what is happening with my Dad.

My favorite song right now is by the Zac Brown Band...I Wanna Go Where the Boat Leaves From

There's a place, where the boat leaves
from

It takes away all your big problems

You got worries you can drop them in the blue ocean

But you gotta get away to where the boat leaves from

Take one part sand, and one part sea, one part shade of a
big palm tree.....

If we book, I will be sure to post and say hi. If we do book within the next week or 2, would we be able to jump in on the FE? I know it's last minute, so I understand if it's not ok. I won't know until Dad passes away which cruise we are going to jump on to get away. (Our FE gifts that we gave out in August are picture below-adult and girl versions)

I'm so sorry for your tough year and hope you can join us. Let us know if you want to join FE, we would love to have you!

[RadioFanatic]

OK, FE question for the experts - do we just give them whenever or are times scheduled?

[tigger30066]

This is my first cruise, so I am not an expert, but I thought we just give them whenever. I am ok either way if I have a certain day or any day. I am not sure what the correct way is.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

DH, DD, & I are thinking of joining this cruise. My Mom (age 62) passed away in June of ovarian cancer. My Dad (age 67) moved in with us a month ago, and he is now under the care of hospice, and we are his primary caregivers. He has terminal lymphoma.
My favorite song right now is by the Zac Brown Band...I Wanna Go Where the Boat Leaves From...........

If we book, I will be sure to post and say hi. If we do book within the next week or 2, would we be able to jump in on the FE? I know it's last minute, so I understand if it's not ok. I won't know until Dad passes away which cruise we are going to jump on to get away. (Our FE gifts that we gave out in August are picture below-adult and girl versions)

First of all, you have my thoughts and prayers. What a tough year this has been for your family! God bless you for caring for your Dad in his last days, too. :hug::hug::hug::hug: for all of you. (I love the Zac Brown band, too!!)

Absolutely, we'd love to welcome you aboard!! And yes, you can still participate in the FE exchange, if you decide to sail with us. I'll go ahead and put you on the FE list as tentative--how's that?

I planned to cut off the sign-ups 3 weeks ahead of sailing, which would be around the 7th. There's no set rule about when to deliver your goodies and I like the "whenever you choose" schedule. I think the assigned days are better on the longer cruises with the huge groups of participants. Let's not all go for Sunday evening or wait till the sea day, though!

So who's started packing?!!! Only a month to go!

[tigger30066]

I have started packing. So excited. Nothing to much just a couple of items.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Updated FE List

DECK 5
Rosemary (thor205), Brian, DS-Sean (12), DS-Nick (3), DGF-Larry, DGM-Emily, #5022

Kimberly (RadioFanatic), Mark, DS-Isaac (almost 3), #5520

DECK 6
Peg (mannpeg729), Brian, DS-Houston (4), #6560 Note: DS-Harlem (6) will be unable to cruise for health reasons, but some folks have offered to keep him on their FE list so Mom & Dad can bring something home for him

Kim (smartkim), Lee, DS-Kyle (17), DS-Josh (13), #6055

Beth (CrazyBoutDisney), Dave, #6099

DECK 7
Becky (tigger30066), Julie, #7119

TENTATIVE
BealsRwe, DH, DD, #TBD

[Brooke3L]

Just booked today!!!

[RadioFanatic]

Just booked today!!!

Welcome!

I've been started on the packing since a month ago - instead of just putting summer clothes away, I simply put them in our suitcases! Made me not so sad to have to bring out the sweaters, etc. for a sure to be yucky and cold winter!

[tigger30066]

Happy Halloween guys. Only 28 more sleeps. :thumbsup2

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Happy Halloween guys. Only 28 more sleeps. :thumbsup2

WHOO--HOOO!!!!! 28 sleeps and only 3 1/2 weeks of work!!!!

Frustrated with the way my FEs were turning out and had to go back to the drawing board. Sigh.....so many hours down the drain. Good thing I like crafting!

[tigger30066]

I'm sure you were being too hard on yourself. Just know we will be very happy with whatever we get. It is all about the thought and effort. :)

[RadioFanatic]

I agree with Tigger!

[BealsRwe]

First of all, you have my thoughts and prayers. What a tough year this has been for your family! God bless you for caring for your Dad in his last days, too. :hug::hug::hug::hug: for all of you. (I love the Zac Brown band, too!!)

Absolutely, we'd love to welcome you aboard!! And yes, you can still participate in the FE exchange, if you decide to sail with us. I'll go ahead and put you on the FE list as tentative--how's that?

I planned to cut off the sign-ups 3 weeks ahead of sailing, which would be around the 7th. There's no set rule about when to deliver your goodies and I like the "whenever you choose" schedule. I think the assigned days are better on the longer cruises with the huge groups of participants. Let's not all go for Sunday evening or wait till the sea day, though!

So who's started packing?!!! Only a month to go!

Thanks so much! We will be joining you on this cruise. This will be a much needed escape for us. We just booked a gty verandah...I will let you know our stateroom number when I get it. Planning the FE and everything else will give me some fun stuff to do during this time. It will be DH, DD (Kayla, age 6), and I sailing.

I will go back and read previous posts once I have some time so I can "meet" you all. We will be heading to stay ion Cape Canaveral the night before at the Country Inn & Suites, adding a day to our vacation getaway.

Thanks for the positive thoughts and prayers! See you all real soon!

[BealsRwe]

Just booked today!!!

We just booked today :-)

[RadioFanatic]

We just booked today :-)

Yeah and welcome! if you are doing the early dinner, you could join crazyboutdisney and us at a table if you are interested!

[tigger30066]

Thanks so much! We will be joining you on this cruise. This will be a much needed escape for us. We just booked a gty verandah...I will let you know our stateroom number when I get it. Planning the FE and everything else will give me some fun stuff to do during this time. It will be DH, DD (Kayla, age 6), and I sailing.

I will go back and read previous posts once I have some time so I can "meet" you all. We will be heading to stay ion Cape Canaveral the night before at the Country Inn & Suites, adding a day to our vacation getaway.

Thanks for the positive thoughts and prayers! See you all real soon!

Welcome to the FE. These are some questions that have already been asked. What is the Family's last name, What are favorite characters, and are there any food allergies?


Are we going to do a meet on the boat? Just curious? Still no documents but I keep checking the mail.

[BealsRwe]

Welcome to the FE. These are some questions that have already been asked. What is the Family's last name, What are favorite characters, and are there any food allergies?


Are we going to do a meet on the boat? Just curious? Still no documents but I keep checking the mail.

Our last name is Beal (Peter, Stephanie, & Kayla- age 6) Booked gty today and already got our stateroom assignment, 6642

Favorite characters:
Pete- Brer Rabbit
Kayla- Ariel
Stephanie- Dumbo or Chip 'n Dale

No food allergies.

Thanks for letting us join in :-)

[BealsRwe]

nov 28, 2010 - 4 night cruise

we just put our deposit for this cruise, our very first. would love to meet some new friends who will be aboard! especially families since we are cruising with our four and six year old sons!!!

We are joining the group late. We just booked this morning. Our DD is 6. This will be her 7th DCL trip and is a pro at the clubs. I hope our kids find each other in the clubs, and that we get a chance to meet you as well.

[mannpeg729]

we leave 3 weeks from tomorrow!! :yay::yay::yay:

welcome aboard to all of our new friends!

we have changed our precruise plans a bit and are now booked at the Country Inn & Suites... maybe we''ll be able to meet a few dis'ers on saturday night... :idea:

when can we find a final list for FE? i want to be sure i don't accidentally overlook anybody!!

[mommymade]

Its a bitter sweet day. We are booked today! I have a broken toe so plans for running to lose some prebuffet pounds are hampered. We just couldn't pass up the Florida navigator rate and look ourselves in the mirror on Nov. 28. We are passholders here in mouseland and our dd LOVES the mouse, or at least she yells really loud for him.
I am trying to get my Disney bearings for on board and we would luv to participate in the FE please.

Julia is turning "3" on Nov. 28,2010 and this is our first Disney Cruise. My name is Jamie and my husband is Gene. We would love to go scuba diving if anyone else does it. Disney is the only cruise line I think I can leave her with and not freak out.

Looking forward to chatting and recommendations to get ready for some MAGIC!:flower3:

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Welcome aboard Beal family!!!

Welcome aboard Jamie, Gene & Julia!!!!

Glad to have you all with us! And glad to have you participate in the Fish Extenders, too! Let me echo Kimberly's invitation--if either of you have early seating for dinner, we're putting together a DIS table and would love to have you join us. Although they can't guarantee your request will be honored, DCL allows you to put in a request with them or your travel agent to link your dining with others. Just need to give the last name and cabin number of the other families.


Updated FE List

DECK 5
Rosemary (thor205), Brian, DS-Sean (12), DS-Nick (3), DGF-Larry, DGM-Emily, #5022

Kimberly (RadioFanatic), Mark, DS-Isaac (almost 3), #5520

DECK 6
Peg (mannpeg729), Brian, DS-Houston (4), #6560 Note: DS-Harlem (6) will be unable to cruise for health reasons, but some folks have offered to keep him on their FE list so Mom & Dad can bring something home for him

Kim (smartkim), Lee, DS-Kyle (17), DS-Josh (13), #6055

Beth (CrazyBoutDisney), Dave, #6099

Stephanie (BealsRwe), Peter, DD-Kayla (6), #6642

DECK 7
Becky (tigger30066), Julie, #7119

NEED CABIN NUMBER:
Jamie (mommymade), Gene, DD-Julia (3)

[BealsRwe]

Hi everyone. I want to be sure I don't offend anyone with our FE gift. As we are going to be on board during the holiday season, I am thinking of making our FE with a Christmas theme. If you don't celebrate Christmas, I don't want to offend you with our gift. Please PM me and I will alter what I am making for your family.
Thanks,
Stephanie

[tigger30066]

My best friend and I both celebrate Christmas so we are good.

[RadioFanatic]

I did Christmas too - so let me know if you would prefer I didn't!

[mommymade]

I spent most of last night looking at what to book? We have been to Nassau a few times before and lost money at the casino and looked at the fishies. Soo I don't know what to do. We love to scuba dive but they say its a 45 minute ride from the cruise ship and the price is $160. For a dive that is expensive... So eeek. But I want to dive ......lol. Idk though with dd just turning 3 and leaving her in mouse club for 5.5 hours. What to do?

Any thoughts past Mommas. Do you dd will have a blast in there? Or will she be looking for me after a few hours? She currently stays home with me now and is starting a half day program 2 days a week this week. She is super social though. First time momma, so super protective.

I think our stateroom is 5634. I am pretty sure. lol. I want to shout to the hills we are going on this cruise but last night my brother called saying they are cutting disablility for his step son since they are married now and he has to move. And he said if I win the lottery toss him some money. So I feel bad and don't want to announce this. Sorry bro, tough times, but hey we are going on a disney cruise! Bad sister. I am hoping to sign some extra contracts before I go and ease my concious by sending him some money.

Good news, I only chipped my toe. I can talk can't I. lol. We have late seating, which seems really late for a cruise. I can't foresee dd eating that late. Any experience getting that changed once on board?

:surfweb:

[tigger30066]

My best friend and I are doing the sea lion encounter. We debated between the sea lions and dolphins but picked the sea lions because dolphins are everywhere but this was the first time we saw sea lions. Just what we are doing. BTW no kids just two adult friends so I can't help with the kids club.

[Angelhalo]

Who's getting excited?????

:cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1:

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Jamie, I've never had personal experience with trying to switch dining, but I've heard many people say they've been able to switch from late to early dining at check in. Maybe if you manage to get to the port right when they open and be one of the first to check in? I can't imagine trying to make your little one wait til 8:30 or later for her dinner! I know you could always feed her earlier, but then she'd probably be falling asleep while you're trying to enjoy the dining room. I sure hope DCL can switch you to early seating!!

Don't feel guilty, either, about being happy to be going on this cruise. You've paid your dues with caring for your parents, now it's time to enjoy a little relief!!

We're Christmas celebrators, too--no worries!

Oh yeah, DH is thinking about doing the tour of Atlantis, since we've never seen it. But I'm staying on the ship--Nassau just doesn't interest me. How about some snorkeling at Castaway Cay? That's what I'm looking forward to!!

[BealsRwe]

I spent most of last night looking at what to book? We have been to Nassau a few times before and lost money at the casino and looked at the fishies. Soo I don't know what to do. We love to scuba dive but they say its a 45 minute ride from the cruise ship and the price is $160. For a dive that is expensive... So eeek. But I want to dive ......lol. Idk though with dd just turning 3 and leaving her in mouse club for 5.5 hours. What to do?

Any thoughts past Mommas. Do you dd will have a blast in there? Or will she be looking for me after a few hours? She currently stays home with me now and is starting a half day program 2 days a week this week. She is super social though. First time momma, so super protective.

I think our stateroom is 5634. I am pretty sure. lol. I want to shout to the hills we are going on this cruise but last night my brother called saying they are cutting disablility for his step son since they are married now and he has to move. And he said if I win the lottery toss him some money. So I feel bad and don't want to announce this. Sorry bro, tough times, but hey we are going on a disney cruise! Bad sister. I am hoping to sign some extra contracts before I go and ease my concious by sending him some money.

Good news, I only chipped my toe. I can talk can't I. lol. We have late seating, which seems really late for a cruise. I can't foresee dd eating that late. Any experience getting that changed once on board?

:surfweb:


We have left our DD in the clubs for excursions. In fact, we were on the Wonder in August, and DD was out in town with us for a bit, but wanted to go back to the clubs. We went back out for a few hours and enjoyed ourselves!

We are also second seating. We have had early seating the past 2 cruises, and it feels worse for us...especially our DD. At the late dining, they feed the kids quicker, and then the counselors come to the dining rooms to grab the kids...nice for us. Last cruise, I had to leave the table each night to take DD to the clubs. On a 4 night, we prefer the later as well, enjoy the day, eat our lunch later, sleep in longer...vacation!

1st night, looks like we will be in Palo...only ressies left, but since I'm platinum, I want to enjoy this free experience!

Good luck with your toe, and for your brother!

[nineandcounting]

Hello fellow DISer's :)

We're sailing with you this cruise...DH and I, our 11th. DD, 18, her first and her graduation cruise (with 10 children, all homeschooled, a cruise is their reward for graduation), and DS, 8 months.

Looking forward to meeting you - and we'd love to be a part of the FE, if it isn't too late - we have cabin 2036.

Mary-Belle
Wife to one.
Mom to ten.

[BealsRwe]

1st FE gift started :-)

[BealsRwe]

Hello fellow DISer's :)

We're sailing with you this cruise...DH and I, our 11th. DD, 18, her first and her graduation cruise (with 10 children, all homeschooled, a cruise is their reward for graduation), and DS, 8 months.

Looking forward to meeting you - and we'd love to be a part of the FE, if it isn't too late - we have cabin 2036.

Mary-Belle
Wife to one.
Mom to ten.


Welcome aboard! 11th DCL? It's my 12th...welcome to platinum.

[klivanos]

[woohooooo
25 days!!!!!!!!!!

[rlm804]

Hi!

Trying to find out if it is still possible to sign up for the Fish extender group.

We have us, and an 8 year old son

[tigger30066]

I don't think it is too late. I am not in charge of the FE, but I think the cutoff date is this weekend. :)

[Angelhalo]

Hello fellow DISer's :)

We're sailing with you this cruise...DH and I, our 11th. DD, 18, her first and her graduation cruise (with 10 children, all homeschooled, a cruise is their reward for graduation), and DS, 8 months.

Looking forward to meeting you - and we'd love to be a part of the FE, if it isn't too late - we have cabin 2036.

Mary-Belle
Wife to one.
Mom to ten.

Hello fellow North Carolinians!! :cool2:

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Looking forward to meeting you - and we'd love to be a part of the FE, if it isn't too late - we have cabin 2036
WELCOME ABOARD!!! So glad you decided to join us! Sounds like an awesome family, there. Are you homeschooling all the kids yourself or are you part of a co-op homeschool? Congratulations to your DD on her graduation!! Just need everybody's first names to add you all to the FE list.

Hi! Trying to find out if it is still possible to sign up for the Fish extender group. We have us, and an 8 year old son

Absolutely! Be glad to add you all to the list. Could we have your first names and your cabin number, please? And WELCOME ABOARD!

Sunday, Nov 7th is cut-off day. I will post the final list that evening.

Although we have not been able to schedule a DIS meet, we ARE attempting to put together a larger DIS table for early dining. If either of you have early dining, you are welcome to join DH & myself and RadioFanatic (Kimberly) and her family. We exchange last names and notify whoever we booked the cruise with (DCL or our TA) that we would like to be cross referenced for dining with each other.

[nineandcounting]

Hello fellow North Carolinians!! :cool2:

Hi there! Looking forward to that sunshine :)

Welcome aboard! 11th DCL? It's my 12th...welcome to platinum.

I only wish it was our 11th on DCL. Nope, we started on Carnival & RCCL. This is only our 4th DCL, but we have 3 planned for next year , so I'll be Platinum before we know it :-D

[nineandcounting]

[QUOTE=CrazyBoutDisney;38825598]WELCOME ABOARD!!! So glad you decided to join us! Sounds like an awesome family, there. Are you homeschooling all the kids yourself or are you part of a co-op homeschool? Congratulations to your DD on her graduation!! Just need everybody's first names to add you all to the FE list.


Thanks! They ARE awesome :) I homeschool them alone - no co-ops here. This is our second graduate, and we're very happy for her. Names are:

Me - Mary-Belle
DH - Brian
DD - Emily - 18
DS - Daniel - 8 months

Looking forward to it - FE's are sooo much fun!

[Brooke3L]

So ready for this cruise! We booked last week so brunch was booked hope there will be a cancellation and we can book onboard

[DaveH]

So ready for this cruise! We booked last week so brunch was booked hope there will be a cancellation and we can book onboard

DCL does not release all of the Palo's ressie early. They keep some for when folks get there. The Navigator will tell you where to go to make Palo's ressies.

[Angelhalo]

Hi there! Looking forward to that sunshine :)

Oh I know it's pretty chilly here all of the sudden!

What part of NC are you from? I have friends and family all over the stae. Some who homeschool.

DH and I have no kids. We do have a friend who is coming with us. Actually she's my old college roomie. She has no kids either. She and her boyfriend broke up after they rebooked on our last cruise so she is flying solo with us. We're all getting soooo excited!

[tigger30066]

Oh I know it's pretty chilly here all of the sudden!

What part of NC are you from? I have friends and family all over the stae. Some who homeschool.

DH and I have no kids. We do have a friend who is coming with us. Actually she's my old college roomie. She has no kids either. She and her boyfriend broke up after they rebooked on our last cruise so she is flying solo with us. We're all getting soooo excited!

My best friend and I are also both single, so maybe we can all meet up and go dancing one night. See if there are any single guys on the boat. Not holding my breath, but at least she will know she is not the only single one there. :)

[Angelhalo]

My best friend and I are also both single, so maybe we can all meet up and go dancing one night. See if there are any single guys on the boat. Not holding my breath, but at least she will know she is not the only single one there. :)

Awww Thats awesome Tigger! I'll be sure to let her know! Do you know your cabin yet? We're 6067 but we're going to check at the port and see about upgrades.

[tigger30066]

We are cabin 7119. Are you doing the FE?

[nineandcounting]

Oh I know it's pretty chilly here all of the sudden!

What part of NC are you from? I have friends and family all over the stae. Some who homeschool.

In the center of the state - just outside Asheboro. Are you from Charlotte?

DH and I have no kids. We do have a friend who is coming with us. Actually she's my old college roomie. She has no kids either. She and her boyfriend broke up after they rebooked on our last cruise so she is flying solo with us. We're all getting soooo excited!

That's so sweet - I can hardly wait! Since we had a new baby this year, we had to wait until he was old enough, and we're both in cruise withdrawal...:yay:

[CrazyBoutDisney]

My best friend and I are also both single, so maybe we can all meet up and go dancing one night. See if there are any single guys on the boat. Not holding my breath, but at least she will know she is not the only single one there. :)

Hey, there's always the single cast members!! If I were still young and single, there are several I've met on the Wonder I wouldn't mind dating!!!!

Got your info, Mary-Belle! You're officially on the FE list, which will be posted again Sunday evening. My hat's off to you, homeschooling all on your own. And I bet your kids are better educated than a lot of other kids their ages, too! I keep hoping and praying the educational system in this country will improve. Instead I see more and more kids with no manners, no respect or consideration for others, and an attitude of entitlement that won't quit. Sigh.......Keep doing what you're doing, my dear! And I'll keep praying!!

I am soooooo looking forward to this cruise and to meeting as many of you as possible! It's going to be positively WONDERful!!!!

[Angelhalo]

We are cabin 7119. Are you doing the FE?

Nah, not this time.

Man we are just so excited. :cool1::cool1::cool1:

[BealsRwe]

So ready for this cruise! We booked last week so brunch was booked hope there will be a cancellation and we can book onboard

We have had success in the past booking onboard for brunch. We have even waited until dinner to book our brunch, but that was a 7 night. It will probably be harder this cruise with only 1 sea day. This is my 12th DCL, DH 10th, and DD 7th. We have opted not to try to get brunch (even though it is our favorite meal onboard) as we have done many times, and we want someone else to be able to enjoy. Of course, if they offer to get us a brunch ressie when we are at dinner, we just might have to do it. I wish they would offer more brunch options at Palo...they could really offer every day as many of us don't even get off the ship in some ports.

Good luck getting brunch! 23 days!

[rlm804]

Hi!

We want to join the fish extender group!

We are:
Rosemary (I know there is another Rosemary on this cruise...hard to believe!)
Joe
David (age 8)

Cabin:6083

First time on a Disney cruise, although we went to DW a few years ago. My son LOVES the characters-esp Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald and Daisy...

Busy couple weeks leading up to it, but can't wait!

[tigger30066]

So this is not related to our cruise, but I just have to share. We are going to WDW in March of 2011 for Julie( my BFF's) 40th birthday. I just got a pin code today that saved me $600 for 2 nights at the Contemporay Theme Park View. Gotta love that pixie dust. :wizard:

[CrazyBoutDisney]

We want to join the fish extender group!
We are:
Rosemary (I know there is another Rosemary on this cruise...hard to believe!)
Joe
David (age 8)

Duly added to the list! First Disney cruise, huh?!! Bet it won't be your last!!!! :rotfl2: AND I bet David will be positively "over the moon" on Pirate Night! If nothing else, you must at least get him a pirate hat or bandana to wear that night (I have extra if you need). I get such a kick out of seeing all the folks in their pirate costumes! The party will knock your socks off, too! HINT: don't eat too much at dinner. You'll need to save room for the party food!!

So this is not related to our cruise, but I just have to share. We are going to WDW in March of 2011 for Julie( my BFF's) 40th birthday. I just got a pin code today that saved me $600 for 2 nights at the Contemporay Theme Park View. Gotta love that pixie dust. :wizard:

Way to go, Becky!!!!!!!

[rlm804]

Thanks, Beth, for the info on Pirate Night. I was originally thinking of skipping it, since it is so late at night for my son-but it sounds like it is worth it. And I never would have thought to bring pirate stuff!

What other tips do previous cruisers have? Things you wish you had known before you went on your first cruise?

[BealsRwe]

Thanks, Beth, for the info on Pirate Night. I was originally thinking of skipping it, since it is so late at night for my son-but it sounds like it is worth it. And I never would have thought to bring pirate stuff!

What other tips do previous cruisers have? Things you wish you had known before you went on your first cruise?

Visit the kids clubs on the first afternoon. Our DD, loves to spend time with other kid cruisers, and it's her vacation too. The first afternoon families can enjoy the club together. If the line is not too long in the terminal you can get your child checked in to the kids clubs. If it is long, you can do it onboard.

We always try to arrive at the port early as that 1st day is part of your vacation. When we cruise later this month, the terminal should be all decked out for the holidays. There are tv's in the terminal to watch some great Disney cartoon classics. This is also a great time to get a picture with a Disney character.

We have a tradition to eat up at Topsider's/Beach Blanket Buffet when we board. Other cruisers enjoy Parrot Cay. Be hungry!

Skip buying the water packages...you can bring 12 pack of water on board-we bring but just for excursions. We also bring a box or two of wine as it travels well. We bring mini's to add to our free soda up at the beverage station on deck 9. I always hit the beverage station before every show.

1st Disney Cruise can be overwhelming, Remember to have fun, relax, and enjoy yourself!

[tigger30066]

21 days. Can you believe it?

[BealsRwe]

21 days. Can you believe it?

I can't. Sad to think of everything between now and then. My dad was moved into a hospice house a week ago. He is very close to the end of his life, but we are trying to focus on the positive...he is going to a much better place. It's hard with just losing my mom in June.

I am focussing on this cruise as the light at the end of a dark tunnel! Working on FE gifts gives me a needed break from my stress. So much to do keeps me positive!

Looking forward to family time on the Wonder!

[Angelhalo]

I can't. Sad to think of everything between now and then. My dad was moved into a hospice house a week ago. He is very close to the end of his life, but we are trying to focus on the positive...he is going to a much better place. It's hard with just losing my mom in June.

I am focussing on this cruise as the light at the end of a dark tunnel! Working on FE gifts gives me a needed break from my stress. So much to do keeps me positive!

Looking forward to family time on the Wonder!

I'm so sorry to hear that :hug: At least it does help to have something so positive to look forward too.

[Angelhalo]

I need to start looking for our swimsuits, sunscreen etc!

[mannpeg729]

I can't. Sad to think of everything between now and then. My dad was moved into a hospice house a week ago. He is very close to the end of his life, but we are trying to focus on the positive...he is going to a much better place. It's hard with just losing my mom in June.

I am focussing on this cruise as the light at the end of a dark tunnel! Working on FE gifts gives me a needed break from my stress. So much to do keeps me positive!

Looking forward to family time on the Wonder!

:hug: sorry it's gonna be a bittersweet time for your family! glad you are wise about taking time to celebrate lives lived!!! i'm sure thats what your parents would choose for you.

[mannpeg729]

:eek: am i the only one suddenly freaking out about their FE stuff??? i know the list has grown, not sure how big... :scared1:

i just had 6 weeks to work on them... now suddenly we leave 2 weeks from tuesday!!! :jumping1: so dang excited!!!! but i better get to work.

[tigger30066]

:eek: am i the only one suddenly freaking out about their FE stuff??? i know the list has grown, not sure how big... :scared1:

i just had 6 weeks to work on them... now suddenly we leave 2 weeks from tuesday!!! :jumping1: so dang excited!!!! but i better get to work.

I know we leave 2 weeks from Thursday. We have to finish our FE's this weekend as well as going to see Lady Antebellum. Gonna be a busy week for sure. Hopefully we will get the final list so we can know just how much is ahead of us. So exicted I feel like a kid on Christmas Eve. :yay:

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Here we are, just 3 weeks from sailing!!! The Fish Extender list is now officially closed so that everyone has enough time to prepare and know how many to prepare for. Personally, I always do a little more, because there are always people who decide to cruise at the last minute and would like to participate. But as of now, this is the final list.

DECK 2
#2036: Mary-Belle (nineandcounting), Brian, DD-Emily(18), DS-Daniel (8 mos)

DECK 5
#5022: Rosemary (thor205), Brian, DS-Sean (12), DS-Nick (3), DGF-Larry, DGM-Emily

#5520: Kimberly (RadioFanatic), Mark, DS-Isaac (almost 3)

#5634: Jamie (mommymade), Gene, DD-Julia (3)

DECK 6
#6055: Kim (smartkim), Lee, DS-Kyle (17), DS-Josh (13)

#6083: Rosemary (rlm804), Joe, DS-David (8)

#6099: Beth (CrazyBoutDisney), Dave

#6560: Peg (mannpeg), Brian, DS-Harlem(6)*, DS-Houston (4)

#6642: Stephanie (BealsRwe), Peter, DD-Kayla (6)

DECK 7
#7119: Becky (tigger30066), Julie

*Note: Although Peg has informed us that due to health issues, Harlem will not be able to cruise with the family after all, several of us don't want him to feel totally left out and will keep him on our FE list. Peg will take his goodies home for him.

[nineandcounting]

Thanks!! So excited :)

[BealsRwe]

Hi everyone. I wanted to let you know that I appreciate all of your kind words and support. My DH surprised me this morning and called DCL. He was able to move our 4 night cruise to the 7 night leaving on Sat Nov 27th. (We are WDW cast members, and we were sailing on the available status. He moved our reservation without a cancellation fee, and we only paid the difference between our verandah on 11/28 to an inside on 11/27). I wish you all the best cruise ever. One of our FE is complete, and since we are unable to join the FE on 11/27, I would love to mail one to you. PM me your address and I will send one to you. Have a great cruise!

Stephanie

[RadioFanatic]

Hi everyone. I wanted to let you know that I appreciate all of your kind words and support. My DH surprised me this morning and called DCL. He was able to move our 4 night cruise to the 7 night leaving on Sat Nov 27th. (We are WDW cast members, and we were sailing on the available status. He moved our reservation without a cancellation fee, and we only paid the difference between our verandah on 11/28 to an inside on 11/27). I wish you all the best cruise ever. One of our FE is complete, and since we are unable to join the FE on 11/27, I would love to mail one to you. PM me your address and I will send one to you. Have a great cruise!

Stephanie

that's awesome - have a great time you deserve it- I PM'd you and thanks!

[tigger30066]

Still have not received my documents. :confused3

I really want my luggage tags. Hopefully they will come tomorrow.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Stephanie, that's so awesome that you will be sailing for a whole week rather than just the 4 night! You soooooo deserve this trip! Congrats and have a MAGICal week!!! So sorry we won't get to meet you, though. We'll be visiting friends in the area on Saturday, so maybe we'll come see the boat off! Look for a couple of Pooh-size goofballs waving like crazy somewhere in the vicinity of the terminal!!

Becky, have you called DCL to ask about your docs? We got ours like 2 weeks ago and it seems to me yours should have been mailed about the same time. One trip, we didn't get our Magical Express package so DH called and they sent out a duplicate package immediately.

[klivanos]

19 DAYS AND COUNTING!!!:yay:
I"ve been reading everyones comments and i was just wondering besides the Magiacl Express vouchers what other kind of documents should we be getting? I did on line check in and thats all complete.Should i be getting more docs??

[tigger30066]

Stephanie, that's so awesome that you will be sailing for a whole week rather than just the 4 night! You soooooo deserve this trip! Congrats and have a MAGICal week!!! So sorry we won't get to meet you, though. We'll be visiting friends in the area on Saturday, so maybe we'll come see the boat off! Look for a couple of Pooh-size goofballs waving like crazy somewhere in the vicinity of the terminal!!

Becky, have you called DCL to ask about your docs? We got ours like 2 weeks ago and it seems to me yours should have been mailed about the same time. One trip, we didn't get our Magical Express package so DH called and they sent out a duplicate package immediately.

We contacted our TA and she is working on it. She said they mailed them 2 weeks ago and that it could take 2 to 3 weeks via US Mail. We live in Atlanta so not really sure what is going on. She is going to check again today.

[Brooke3L]

I just got my docs today :banana:
We just found out Ethan is going to be on VH1 Nov. 24rd on a show called Dance Cam Slam at 8:00pm If you guys have a chance to watch he could use your vote!

[smartkim]

Ok, since I am new to the whole cruising/FE thing, I need someone to tell me about leaving the gifts. Do you only leave a gift once or multiple times? Also, for the adults, do you try and do a gift for both or one for each person? I just need help understanding so I don't mess it up :happytv:

[mannpeg729]

had to take a minute to say thanks for keeping the FE list and giving it to us in such a neat easy-to-follow format! thanks so much!!!!
:grouphug:

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Ok, since I am new to the whole cruising/FE thing, I need someone to tell me about leaving the gifts. Do you only leave a gift once or multiple times? Also, for the adults, do you try and do a gift for both or one for each person? I just need help understanding so I don't mess it up :happytv:

Don't worry, Kim! You CAN'T mess up, since the decision is up to you. Whether you want to deliver one gift per stateroom or a gift for each person or anything in between--that's for you to decide. Some people choose to do a family or adult gift and then something for each child in each stateroom. Others choose to just give a single item to the "family". If it's easier to just put a bunch of stuff in a bag and deliver that--go for it. This is a "whatever you feel comfortable with" deal.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

had to take a minute to say thanks for keeping the FE list and giving it to us in such a neat easy-to-follow format! thanks so much!!!!
:grouphug:

Aww gawrsh....'twas nuthin'! :thumbsup2 I just did it the way I like to have it for my own personal use. MUST keep everything organized and in order or I lose it all!! Call me anal or Type-A or maybe I'm compensating for ADHD! :confused3

[RadioFanatic]

Would anyone want to do a DIS meet on our At Sea day? Maybe breakfast or something? I would love to meet you guys!

[nineandcounting]

Would anyone want to do a DIS meet on our At Sea day? Maybe breakfast or something? I would love to meet you guys!

Seems like a Sea Day would be the perfect time for a meet :)

[tigger30066]

The sea day works for us. The only thing we have planned for that day is the Rainforest Room. Hopefully.

[RadioFanatic]

Awesome! So are you guys early risers or late sleepers? I have a 2 year old so I'm sure you can guess which I am; however, I will do whatever the group wants to!

[rlm804]

We were supposed to do brunch at Palo on Sea day, but my on-line reservation got deleted...not sure what to do about that.

Hoping to still get a reservation for that day. You guys can go ahead without us.

Rosemary

[CrazyBoutDisney]

We are doing a Palo brunch that morning at 10:30, but could surely get together before then. Great idea, Kimberly!!

[mannpeg729]

we are brunching at palo at 11 that morning... would certainly meet earlier!

[tigger30066]

We can do anytime in the morning, as long as it does interfer with my towel folding class. I am really excited about that, not sure why but I am. :confused3:rotfl2:

[RadioFanatic]

That's so funny-we had an 11 am palo reservation too but just cancelled it yesterday bc we decided not to leave our DS. How about 9 am somewhere or is that too late? Any recommendations?

[Angelhalo]

We too have brunch on sea day at 10:00.

Is anyone planning on wearing anything around the ship to distinguish themselves as DIS'ers?

I thought about pinning on one of those green mickey head paint chip sample thingies from the hardware store.....

[CrazyBoutDisney]

9 am is good for us!

Courtesy of Milliepie, one of the greatest DISigners on this board! If you click on the crossed arrows in the lower right, you can get a bigger image. Save it to your computer and print yourself a DIS nametag. http://www.4shared.com/photo/oNFGjyUa/greendiserdcltag.html

I have a button I was given at a big DIS meet we went to at WDW several years ago with my name and my DIS name on it. I was already thinking about bringing it ;)

[Angelhalo]

9 am is good for us!

Courtesy of Milliepie, one of the greatest DISigners on this board! If you click on the crossed arrows in the lower right, you can get a bigger image. Save it to your computer and print yourself a DIS nametag. http://www.4shared.com/photo/oNFGjyUa/greendiserdcltag.html

I have a button I was given at a big DIS meet we went to at WDW several years ago with my name and my DIS name on it. I was already thinking about bringing it ;)

ooooh awesome I am going to print these out for us!:banana:

[wonder2010]

I've been debating on and off for several months and I've decided today to go for it. Taking my DSister for a surprise. She'll be 11 on the 1st. Looking forward to hanging with the mouse and meeting new people.

[tigger30066]

Finally got my documents today. :dance3:

[RadioFanatic]

Finally got my documents today. :dance3:

yeah! I want to admit something. I did something cool for FE; however, some people came later so for those I had to do something different. I'm sorry for the discrepancy; however, I think everyone will like what they got. On another note, anyone trying to get a cabana? It's too much for just three of us! And we're excited bc we are doing Atlantis Beach day in naussa - anyone do this before?

[tigger30066]

yeah! I want to admit something. I did something cool for FE; however, some people came later so for those I had to do something different. I'm sorry for the discrepancy; however, I think everyone will like what they got. On another note, anyone trying to get a cabana? It's too much for just three of us! And we're excited bc we are doing Atlantis Beach day in naussa - anyone do this before?

Don't feel bad. Some of our FE are different as well. We did the best we could to keep them close, but some of the stuff was not available anymore.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Finally got my documents today. :dance3:

Whoo-hoo!!!! So glad to hear they finally arrived!!!

Can you believe we're at less than 12 days!!!!!

[tigger30066]

Only 11 more sleeps. I can not wait. :)

[mommymade]

umm the title says it. lol.

[RadioFanatic]

umm the title says it. lol.

Me (Kimberly) - XL
Mark - XXL
Isaac - size 3T or 4T

Impressive!

[RadioFanatic]

So it looks like we are going to have a meet! Yeah! 9 am on sea day - where should we meet? CrazyboutDisney - do you have an idea? I'm more than likely going to have my son with me, so I can't do any adult areas. Let's get a list of who is coming so we can have an idea of who to look for! DH probably will still be asleep knowing him, but DS and I will be there!

So when is everyone actually leaving to start their trip? We leave a week from today!!!!:cool1::cool1:

[tigger30066]

umm the title says it. lol.

Becky XXL
Julie XXL

[tigger30066]

So it looks like we are going to have a meet! Yeah! 9 am on sea day - where should we meet? CrazyboutDisney - do you have an idea? I'm more than likely going to have my son with me, so I can't do any adult areas. Let's get a list of who is coming so we can have an idea of who to look for! DH probably will still be asleep knowing him, but DS and I will be there!

So when is everyone actually leaving to start their trip? We leave a week from today!!!!:cool1::cool1:

Julie and I will be there. We leave a week from Tomorrow. Can't wait.

[nineandcounting]

umm the title says it. lol.

Mary-Belle L
Brian L
Emily S
Daniel 12 mos.

[TheWescotts]

Hey all. We just booked on this cruise two days ago. I know it is too late to get in on the FE list, but I wanted to say hi. This will be our 2nd Disney cruise We have DD4 and DD1 that will be going with us. We have not told them yet.

Someone asked for tips try this

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1242604

I had it bookmarked from our first trip. Very helpful.

[CrazyBoutDisney]

Welcome aboard Wescott family!!!! Congrats on your 2nd cruise, too! I LOVE the idea of surprising the kids! How do you plan to let them in on it?

umm the title says it. lol.

XXL for both Dave & I

So it looks like we are going to have a meet! Yeah! 9 am on sea day - where should we meet?

How about the Promenade Lounge on Deck 3? It's not an Adults Only area and at 9am, there isn't anything going on in there, that I know of. There are plenty of chairs and room on the "dance floor" for the kids to get a little rambunctious. :teeth:

As for a list......Those who "RSVP'd"
RadioFanatic (Kimberly)
nineandcounting (Mary-Belle)
tigger30066 (Becky)
rlm804 (Rosemary)-is still hoping for a Palo brunch. Can we talk you into dropping by to give us a face to go with the name?
CrazyBoutDisney (Beth-that's me!)
mannpeg729 (Peggy)
Angelhalo--has Palo at 10, but maybe you could stop by for a few minutes before. Please?!!

smartkim? Could you meet up with us Wednesday morning at 9, maybe?
How about you, mommymade? We'd love to meet you!
Wescotts, you're invited, too!
wonder2010? If you were successful booking this cruise, come on by and meet some of your fellow DISsers! I promise--we may be a little wild and crazy, but we're mostly harmless :laughing:

[Angelhalo]

Welcome aboard Wescott family!!!! Congrats on your 2nd cruise, too! I LOVE the idea of surprising the kids! How do you plan to let them in on it?



XXL for both Dave & I



How about the Promenade Lounge on Deck 3? It's not an Adults Only area and at 9am, there isn't anything going on in there, that I know of. There are plenty of chairs and room on the "dance floor" for the kids to get a little rambunctious. :teeth:

As for a list......Those who "RSVP'd"
RadioFanatic (Kimberly)
nineandcounting (Mary-Belle)
tigger30066 (Becky)
rlm804 (Rosemary)-is still hoping for a Palo brunch. Can we talk you into dropping by to give us a face to go with the name?
CrazyBoutDisney (Beth-that's me!)
mannpeg729 (Peggy)
Angelhalo--has Palo at 10, but maybe you could stop by for a few minutes before. Please?!!

smartkim? Could you meet up with us Wednesday morning at 9, maybe?
How about you, mommymade? We'd love to meet you!
Wescotts, you're invited, too!
wonder2010? If you were successful booking this cruise, come on by and meet some of your fellow DISsers! I promise--we may be a little wild and crazy, but we're mostly harmless :laughing:

We will do our best to remember!:cool1:

[TheWescotts]

Thank you for the invite. We will possibly make it, DD1 is going to be the deciding factor on our schedule.

As I am researching this cruise, it looks to me that this is not going to be a packed full cruise. Our last one was one of the first double dips from when the Magic came back from the west coast before drydock. The ship was full and we had 114 rooms on the FE list.

Looking at the 24th cruise, there are only inside staterooms and veranda staterooms left open to book, and an inside stateroom for 2 people is up to about $2,300. Our cruise has all categories still open and an inside room is only $1,000 for 2 adults.

It makes sense as that week is a low capacity for the parks. How wonderful would it be to have a ship even at 75% capacity. less lines, less crowds at the charterer meets. More room on CC.