Going to kidnap Tink and her pixie dust - June PTR! Updated 6/15 Almost there!

[flipflopmom]

Disclaimer: This PTR is for my DH. He is tired of hearing about my plans, so now you get to be my victim! I love to plan, scheme, plot, and think about WDW.

The burning questions:

1. Just who are we?

Well, there's me. Taryn, 34, a Kindergarten Teacher working on her Master's Degree, finding a new love for running, and kicking up some weight loss. I've lost 36 pounds since January, and would love to lose at least 15 more before our trip.

Then, there is DH, Brad. 38 next Sunday. Hard working Daddy, trying his best to help me out in my crazy life. 45 minute commute to work each way, then helps with driving Miss Crazy - our DD. Thankfully, he got the magic last year!

DD -age 10 - Anna Kathryn, Anna Kat, AK,. A flipping girl, she is a competitive gymnast, has ADHD, and a drama diva attitude! Of course, we love her dearly! She works out 9 hours a week, with a 45 minute commute to the gym. Thankfully, it is where DH works, so I drop her off, and he hangs around after work to pick her up. Fell in LOVE with WDW, and in typical ADHD style, is planning what she is going to eat while listening to her ipod and standing on her head.

DD -age 3 - Sophie, Soph, Sopapilla. Total princess. Eats, breathes, dresses, and sleeps princesses. Knows more about WDW than most first time adults! Favorite book, after princesses? The Complete Guide to Walt Disney World. Our surprise baby that we "couldn't have" after fertility issues with Anna Kat, that we are so glad God gave us!

Our WDW background. Brad and I went for our honeymoon, over New Year's1996, Pepto Bismal castle. HUGE CROWDS! My first trip, fell in LOVE! DH's second, he was in love with me:lovestruc Said then, we'll come back with our kids on our 10th anniversary. Well, on our tenth anniversary, I was on bedrest, 2 weeks from delivering a wonderful surprise.

So just how does the 3 year old know so much? Stay tuned for the hot review!

[flipflopmom]

Hmmm........

My Disney obsession begins!

After securing a beach vacation home last winter, I saw an ad for WDW 4 for 3 deal. Ran some numbers. We were at a prime time for this vacation, as we had a 9 year old and a 2 year old. A week at Pop, Park Hopper tickets, and the DxDP, it would only be $500 more than what we paid for our beach house for the week. No brainer! Brad surprisingly agreed. Booked it through AAA, went to school to talk to a Disney traveler, and immediately got directed here. And so it begins.

While talking about this trip, it became referred to as "Once in a Lifetime" "Never this cheap again because of the deal and the girls' ages". The longer I stayed on Dis, it became "maybe we'll go back in 3 years when Sophie is 5 and might remember it." Then "if you promise we'll go back soon, I won't have to try to fit it all in." And finally while we were there "can we come back next year?"

Thanks to the Dis, we had soooo much fun and pixie dust, it was incredible!

Highlights to follow

[flipflopmom]

Trying desperately not to totally rewrite my TR from last year, but so much of this year's trip is dependent on last year's. A good PTR writer would encourage you to read the full review of our last year's trip linked below, which, will get you excited. I am going to hit the highlights for you.

http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1000629.jpg
The girls were chosen to "Open" Chef Mickey's! Arrival day, first ADR, first day in WDW. They got a private audience with Mickey, got to sign HIS autograph book, lots of hugs and tears. I love the way Sophie couldn't take his eyes off him!

[MousekaMaddi]

great start!! Im in!! ...........and Im finally FIRST!! woot woot!!:rotfl:

Keep it comin!!!!!!!!!!!

[flipflopmom]

I wanted to do something special for DH, in honor of the 10th anniversary we never got to celebrate. Met a GREAT friend here on Dis, and shared the cruise and cost with her. It was a magical ending to our first day! Doing clickable thumnails here, since I have a couple to post! Click if you want the bigger picture!



http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/th_P1000705.jpg (http://s539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/?action=view&current=P1000705.jpg)http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/th_P1000710.jpg (http://s539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/?action=view&current=P1000710.jpg)http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/th_P1000694.jpg (http://s539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/?action=view&current=P1000694.jpg)

[flipflopmom]

A true princess can only visit a "salon" with a castle in the background. In fact, she won't go anywhere else, so we have to go back so she can have a haircut!

http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1010015.jpg

[flipflopmom]

This was a once in a lifetime trip, right. So Mickey had to officially welcome the girls by visiting our room!

http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1000726.jpghttp://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1000725.jpg
http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/P1000720.jpg
http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/P1000721.jpg

[flipflopmom]

http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1010218.jpg
http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1010220.jpg
http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1010221.jpg

Such a great time! Kids had no clue what would happen, neither did DH, just in right place at right time, and I told AK to ask if Tink was awake! I hate that Tink's store is gone.... great memories!

[flipflopmom]

Anna Kathryn was chosen to be in the HSM parade, right after spilling a totally melted milkshake on her shirt!:
http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1010798.jpg

http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1010797.jpg

[flipflopmom]

So, as you can see, July 2009 was a great trip for us. DH said "best week of my life" AK said "I never want to go anywhere else!" and Sophie "I love Disney World"

So, while we were there, we did talk about the downsides. We hated riding buses all the time. Almost all our favorite places to eat were on the monorail. As we were leaving, Brad asked a guy at a DVC kiosk for some info. He needed an hour, but we had to leave. So as soon as we got home, I got on Dis, talked to a friend, and less than two months later, on my birthday, we closed on DVC at Bay Lake Tower!!!:cool1:

My insurance? I KNOW we'll be back! Brad's insurance? He knows he can slow me down, and got 2 dinners at Ohana each trip in the bargain! Also, the draw of going to Hilton Head Island every now and then.

Now, let me add this disclaimer. We are sooooo far from wealthy. Pretty solidly middle class. Making a "mortgage" payment on vacation property was a huge step for us, and we had to make sacrifices to do so. But that one week a year is our family togetherness, enjoy each other time. It's an investment in our family that I was willing to give up other things to make.

[flipflopmom]

Hate to spoil the party, but this is another instrumental piece of information. 2 months before we left for WDW, my Daddy found out he had kidney cancer. We spent about a month not sure if we would cancel or not, depending on his plans, surgeons, etc. I started adding all sorts of surprises, like a slipper dessert at CRT, Wishes Cruise, Mickey's Welcome, determined this would be a week away from worrying and stress, and have memories to carry us through the months ahead. I should add that Daddy had lost one kidney before I was born due to complications from kidney stones,was a diabetic, and had 3 heart surgeries.

I am a true Daddy's girl, and they kept my DD's. We average 3 meals a week at their house, and very close. Daddy ended up telling the surgeon that he couldn't do anything until his girls saw their castle and mouse.

5 days after we closed on the DVC property, Daddy had his surgery to remove the kidney and begin dialysis. Heartbreakingly, he had a lot of complications and never recovered. We lost him 9 days later. The last 7 months have been the hardest I've ever experienced. I didn't smile until after Christmas, and I think of him with tears often. We all went through such grief and depression, Anna Kathryn still can't sleep about 1 night a week because she is crying.

We had booked this trip as soon as we bought DVC. Not realizing, we will arrive on Father's Day. It was actually supposed to be the day before, but had to cancel 1 day due to my Master's classes summer schedule. I hope that the grief surrounding me on that day will be eased by being in the Happiest place on Earth!!

[flipflopmom]

After the totally amazing experience last year, I am worried that we won't recapture the magic, it won't be as special, Brad will decide he hates it after all, our DVC investment won't be worth it, etc,

So, I really need to kidnap Tink so we have ample measure of pixie dust this go around, too. I know the really special events won't happen again, but our family was soooo good at recognizing the pixie dust last year: when a bus pulled up as we walked up, short lines, the Bazillian Brazilians walking the other way, great seating in restaurants, great character interaction, finding a great spot in AK and dancing with Chip and DAle, etc. I hope we can keep the magic alive!

We chose June over July due to the tour groups, and hoping the heat might be a little less. DOUBT IT. How hot did it get last year?We left DD's ears in the car for 1.5 hours while we ate a farewell BREAKFAST at CM. This is what we returned to!


http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/th_P1020175.jpg (http://s539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/?action=view&current=P1020175.jpg)

[flipflopmom]

great start!! Im in!! ...........and Im finally FIRST!! woot woot!!:rotfl:

Keep it comin!!!!!!!!!!!

WOW!!! I'm still posting, and here you are!!!! Congrats on being number one, hope you aren't the one and only!:lmao:

[flipflopmom]

DH totally begged for a slower paced trip, with more pool and rest time. We opened and closed the parks 5 days last year! :lmao:

So I started with the theory of day after EMH, with one EMH AM at MK. We loved getting it done then. Especially considering the heat of the day. Also no park at all planned for Wednesday.

Brad said NO DXDP this year, too much scheduling. Remember the 2 Ohana dinners he had to have? Well, AK wanted a Chef Mickey and Crystal Palace, Sophie wanted a CRT. CRT was out, we would only have 2 other credits. We did pick up at 10:30 at Crystal Palace. We did that last year after EMH, and it was great. The place was clearing out, and the characters were in rare form!
http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1020003.jpg http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1010999.jpg

I did schedule 1900 Park Fare, so Sophie could see Cindy and finally meet Prince Charming, since she goes to soo many balls with him! Also chose Tusker House at 8am before park opening, which helped take care of Mickey and Minnie. I wasn't super happy with our choices, especially Ohana twice, but I was glad to get it for Father's Day dinner. Also got a Whispering Canyon, to revisit the WL where we honeymooned.

[flipflopmom]

I must say, making those few ADR's online was not half as exciting at getting up and on the phone at 7 with DxDP's to make. But we are going to Disney, right?

I also started tinkering with park days. After reading reviews, I definitely wanted to hit AK EMH, it looks sooo gorgeous at night. I also wanted to go to DHS pm EMH, because of the Playhouse Disney dance party. Then, we decided to go to Epcot PM EMH, to try to get more in.

We are soooo well aware of the heat, and hopefully our new "home" will allow for easier park hopping to 2 parks, since we are on the monorail. We like to get an early start, and maybe some pool time and nap time, then late night. We found last year that Sophie would NOT nap in the room, but she would in the stroller. It may be that Brad and Anna Kat chill in the room, and I push Sophie around the BLT/CR grounds until she crashes, and then swim, and shower.

BUT WAIT!!!!!! Last Saturday, Sophie says "I can't wait to eat in the castle again Mommy. That's my favorite thing about Disney". Anna Kathryn chimes in with "It would be really cool to eat near the Eiffel Tower", and Brad says, "yeah, I've been thinking about how good Boma was, and how much my friend raved about the Yachtsman, how the A/C and a place to sit were so nice. I kinda dread the CS fight, and I remember how much those snack credits helped beat the heat" OF course, I had gotten up early to puruse the DIs, and stumbled on some dining reviews. Guess what? We are now back to DxDP! I wonder if we can hack it

[flipflopmom]

So, we have a 12 hour drive. As I said before, we had planned to check in on Saturday. Well, that happens to be the last class of my first summer class, so we are now leaving as soon as I get out.

The plan is for the girls to stay with Granny Friday night. Brad will sleep as much of the day as possible while I am in class. Most of the car will be packed Friday, I'll get home, throw in the last minute stuff, we'll get the girls on the way out, and OFF WE GO!!!

Hopefully, I can nap, Brad will drive, the girls will eventually fall asleep, I'll pick up when he is tired, and we should arrive at WDW by 8am!!!


Check in to BLT. I know our room won't be ready, but we can let them know we are. ;) Get our KTTW, and off to MK!

1st stop: Main St. Bakery for breakfast with snack credits!

Then, off to Space Mtn. Brad's favorite ride, it was down for rehab last year. Afterwards, we'll go in search of Tiana at Libery Square and Ariel in Adventureland. I hope these will help get the girls calm, and will be a sizeable line. Depending on time, we will try for POTC and flying carpets!

Then, lunch at the Plaza. I told you, I am an obsessive planner! I am hoping for the Chicken Strawberry Salad, AK wants the turkey sandwich, grilled cheese for Sophie, and some sundaes! Brad, who knows?

After lunch, we will probably take in Main st., then head back to BLT. If our room is still not ready, we'll hit the pool!

When we can, get settled, then off to Ohana for Father's Day dinner at 5:00. Finish up the night with fireworks from our balcony!

[flipflopmom]

Monday will begin with breakfast at Kona at 7:30, (can't wait for the pineapple macademia pancakes! and the Pressed pot of coffee) then MK at Rope Drop!

Fantasyland first, HM, grab FP's for Splash and/or BTMRR. Sophie is 39.5 inches right now. If she is tall enough then, we'll get 4 FP's for same ride, if not, we'll get 2 for each, and use rider swap:thumbsup2

Train to Toon Town, where we will spend some time saying goodbye. :sad1:

We have a lunch at Tony's at 12:00 scheduled. If we feel like it, we'll go. I know this get mixed reviews, mostly bad. Sophie is into Lady and the Tramp right now, don't know if that's worth it. If not, we will cancel and grab something at Contempo Cafe when we go back for a pool break!

After break, dinner at Boma at 6:15. Can't wait! LOVE this restaurant! Then, off to AK for EMH until 10! Very excited to see this, I've seen some gorgeous photographs!

[flipflopmom]

Tues - MK for EMH. The goal is to finish what we haven't seen, and visit the Barber Shop. We have a CP "brunch" at 10:25. Whenever we get done touring, we'll head out for pool break.

Dinner - Les Chefs de France at 7pm. Anna Kat will be so excited. We haven't told them about all the new ADRs yet. We will do Epcot EMH until 11. I am VERY nervous about this! I hope we can get in Soarin, SE, maybe walk in innoventions, then tour WS, with a KP or 2. We will not be watching Illuminations. Last year, AK started crying during it because she was worried about Daddy, and she called and talked to him for a while. So, she doesnt' want to be around for it!

Anyone with any Epcot EMH nighttime strategies?

[flipflopmom]

Wednesday is sleep in, hang out at BLT, whatever the urge is. We have an ADR at 10:30 at Ohana, so the girls can see Lilo and Stitch again. We really enjoyed this breakfast last year. Sophie is mad at Stitch, because when I did the photopass pictures, we got the magic shot of him with ice cream between them, so she thinks he stole her ice cream. This is another ADR they don't know about!

We have dinner at 5 at the Yachtsman. I am excited to go, and see the YC. We didnt' make it to that area before. After dinner, we'll take the boat to DHS for EMH until 11.

Waiting for the flame throwing - we didn't get the TSM hype. :confused3 So, our only desires are RNRC, maybe ToT, both of these just for AK and me, VOTLM for Sophie, B&B show if we make it in time to see one, but not counting on it. Star Tours is a maybe for DH, and we want to go to the Playhouse Disney dance party. We might go to DHS early afternoon if we are ready early enough, since we'll have to take a bus to DHS to get there anyway. If we could get a FP or 2 and hit the B&B show, we'd be ahead of the game. Sophie has just gotten into Toy Story, so she might want to go to Pixar place....

[flipflopmom]

Tusker at 8:00 before opening at 9. We loved this last year. Great breakfast! Safari, and then....I'm not sure. Ak and I will do EE, the whole family will do KRR right before we leave. We want to hit the Pagani trail, as we didn't last time. Anna Kat is in search of a drummer, since she found out he is Akon's Dad. We really want to slow this one down! A lot of what we do will depend on what we get done during EMH. I hope we can see FOTLK or Triceratop Spin, so that will knock out one area. We also want to wander the trails around the Tree of Life.

We have a lunch at y&Y. We enjoyed it here last year, but it was a LOT of food. It's a great break from the heat, though. We may just get apps and desserts, since they were our favorites. THE WONTONS ROCK!!!

Not much of a break today, but we'll try for one, then we have dinner at 1900 PF at 5:00.. There's not a lot of time in between these meals, so I'm not sure, but we are really doing it for the characters! Sophie will FLIP! Plus, this is our night to be in MK, so I don't want to make it later...

After dinner, we're going back to MK (can you guess what our favorite park it?) for our night time there. We'll see Main St. Elect. Parade, and the Summer fireworks, whatever they are????

[flipflopmom]

8:00 at Akershus before opening at 9:00. I know we have a lot of princess meals, but Sophie will only be 3 and obsessed once!

We have 2 goals this day - to see the dolphins, which we somehow missed, and to wander around WS. We want to see the performers, stroll the shops, etc. Epcot last year was a bust for us, too hot, we were miserable, too much food, and we just floundered!!!!

For lunch, we will be snacking around the world as we stroll! No break today!

We have Dh's 2nd Ohana dinner tonight at 8. This was our last night dinner last year, and I cried into my Lapu Lapu with the castle behind me. I plan on repeating that experience! Lots of food close to bedtime, but...MK has EMH that night, and we might just stroll around over there for a while to walk it off a bit, but not too long.

[flipflopmom]

So, well start off check out day with an early breakfast at CM, an easy walk from our room, at 7:10. I'll probably cry when I tell Mickey goodbye again. Come back, pack up, load the car, and then.... MK!!! We have to say goodbye to the castle before we leave, and as a surprise, we are having a farewell lunch at 2 at CRT. I was so shocked I could get ANYTHING at this late notice, and lunch is definitely not what I was hoping for, but... it will be a good way to say goodbye!! Hopefully, nothing will melt in the car??

Anyone had CRT lunch? I just can't get excited about the menu???

Since we are driving, we can leave whenever we want, and we'll tag team the drive back, taking turns napping.

[flipflopmom]

Now that you know how I will be spending my days, who we are, and what we will be eating, ;), I'll take a break for a while.

Up next:

SHOPPING!
Planning surprises
My vacation box
My to do list by time left - - 63 days!

[dismagiclover]

Hi there! We are heading down at about the same time! You will love BLT! It is such a convenient place to stay just a hop skip and a jump from the monorail. I stayed there in January. Your plans sound great. I'll have to more carefully compare them to ours and see if we have any park days the same! Oh and I dabble in running as well. In fact my January trip was to run the half marathon. Running at Disney is great:goodvibes Looking forward to more.

[flipflopmom]

Hi there! We are heading down at about the same time! You will love BLT! It is such a convenient place to stay just a hop skip and a jump from the monorail. I stayed there in January. Your plans sound great. I'll have to more carefully compare them to ours and see if we have any park days the same! Oh and I dabble in running as well. In fact my January trip was to run the half marathon. Running at Disney is great:goodvibes Looking forward to more.

Okay, so dabble in running and running a half do NOT go together! I just finished the couch to 5 K program a week ago, and I am very excited that I can now run a 5K in under 33 minutes! I am really, really, really, trying to get my speed and endurance up, but without a program to tell me what to do, I am floundering a bit.

Do you know if there is a good running trail at BLT?

Thanks for joining in! I'll check out your PTR, too!

[dismagiclover]

Okay, so dabble in running and running a half do NOT go together! I just finished the couch to 5 K program a week ago, and I am very excited that I can now run a 5K in under 33 minutes! I am really, really, really, trying to get my speed and endurance up, but without a program to tell me what to do, I am floundering a bit.

Do you know if there is a good running trail at BLT?

Thanks for joining in! I'll check out your PTR, too!

I really do just dabble in running. It's just that I do it for long distances. A 33 minute 5K is about as fast as I do it too. Have you checked out Hal Higdon's site? He has lots of running plans and programs. I always like to have some sort of race or goal on the horizon so that I stick to my running plan. Keeps it exciting. I really don't know about any running trails around BLT, but I bet if you head to the WISH boards and ask the question people might come up with some.

[flipflopmom]

So there are a few things I want to pick up for our trip. I haven't looked in my Disney box to see what I need to restock yet.

Shoes - we're all good. I stocked up on Teva Mush Flip Flops and Hurricanes last year, Mickey crocs, and AK has her beloved rainbows. Brad likes the Tevas he got, so I think we are set.

Bags - Ak has a Vera mini-hipster, which is perfect for her sunglasses, camera, ipod, and I have her carry wipes, gum, hand sanitizer, and sunscreen mini packs, too. Sophie has a little Tink messenger purse to keep her odds and ends in.

I have a black baggalini, and it worked really, really well. Goes with everything, comfy, lots of pockets.

We are carrying our Maclaren stroller, and it has a little organizer bag that is great for water bottles and such. We also discovered that a reusable, small tote bag is great for the underneath storage, as it catches everything, great for small stuff we don't mind being left in the stroller while it is parked, and is easy to clean out the bottom to fold it for buses.

We celebrated DH's birthday last night, and I got him a small digi camcorder. We've been wanting one, it will be so nice. We took no video last year b/c we didn't want to lug around the extra camera.

Last year, I got the girls a couple of really cute dresses off etsy. The ones they wore to Chef Mickeys were one of them. Anna Kat has decided that she is too cool for those this year, I barely got her in them last year. I hope I can get her to wear one to CM, but I won't push any other times. They both have several Disney shirts they can wear, and I got Sophie some sundresses from hanna andersson a few weeks ago on sale. However, I really like disney themed stuff when we are there.

Here are some I like. Just linking to the pages. I really don't want a lot of extra fabric due to heat and stroller, so I am going for simpler dresses instead of costumes. What do you think?
http://www.etsy.com/listing/44959877/custom-boutique-clothing-cinderella-smoc?ref=sr_list_13&ga_search_query=disney+dresses&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=2&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=44833182&ref=sr_list_22&&ga_search_query=disney+dresses&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=2&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

http://www.etsy.com/listing/44785875/little-mermaid-princess-ariel-twirl-dres?ref=sr_list_22&ga_search_query=disney+princess+dress&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=2&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title

http://www.etsy.com/listing/43590965/custom-boutique-cinderella-jumper-dress?ref=sr_list_20&ga_search_query=disney+princess+dress&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=4&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title

http://www.etsy.com/listing/42691196/custom-boutique-disney-princess-and-the?ref=sr_list_12&ga_search_query=disney+princess+dress&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=8&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title

[Planning fanatic mom]

Hi, I'm here. :wave2:



Anyone with any Epcot EMH nighttime strategies?

I'd like to hear the answer to this question too. I am going to Epcot EMH a different day, but I'm not sure how to handle it.



Waiting for the flame throwing - we didn't get the TSM hype. :confused3 .

No, flame throwing here. We, too, don't get the TSM hype. Although we do have it for the Wii and like it. We'll ride once with a FP. I'll get that while the others ride ToT first.

Also, the heat last year was brutal. Every morning when we turned on the local news, they would talk about the heat wave breaking records. I figure there is no way it could be worse. :scared1:

You were right, we are eating at many of the same places just a different night. The only thing we have in common is the MK EMH on Tues. This is our departure day:sad2:

Your plans sound amazing. You are so much farther ahead of me. Maybe this will be the inspiration to get my touring plans done.:confused3

Can't wait to hear more.

[flipflopmom]

Hi, I'm here. :wave2:


No, flame throwing here. We, too, don't get the TSM hype. Although we do have it for the Wii and like it. We'll ride once with a FP. I'll get that while the others ride ToT first.

Also, the heat last year was brutal. Every morning when we turned on the local news, they would talk about the heat wave breaking records. I figure there is no way it could be worse. :scared1:

Your plans sound amazing. You are so much farther ahead of me. Maybe this will be the inspiration to get my touring plans done.:confused3

Can't wait to hear more.

We almost got trampled by the Bazilian Brazilians, and the FP lines were insane because of their huge stacks of tix, so we decided to totally skip it this year. I can NOW say - there is always next year!

We had friends there in the heat wave in June. They talked about how bad it was, but to me, it was 97 with 98% humidity or something like that. I think once you get like that, hot is hot! That's why we are trying for the EMH's this year, hopefully to take breaks in the middle of the day.

Planning is my fix! I am seriously thinking about subscribing to ridemax again. We did it last year, and it worked great! It was very useful in helping me realize what we could fit in a time frame. BUT, I don't want to rush from attraction to attraction, either. Where oh where is the happy medium?

[flipflopmom]

SO, as I was browsing pics from last year to put in, I found some that we'll never get again. So here is my photo montage of gone but not forgottens. I've already put in waking up Tink, so sad that's gone!

http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1010959.jpg
http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1010964.jpg
http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1010967.jpg

[flipflopmom]

http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1020044.jpg
http://i539.photobucket.com/albums/ff360/tarynscruggs/DIsney%20World%202009/P1020046.jpg

[Planning fanatic mom]

We had friends there in the heat wave in June. They talked about how bad it was, but to me, it was 97 with 98% humidity or something like that. I think once you get like that, hot is hot! That's why we are trying for the EMH's this year, hopefully to take breaks in the middle of the day.

Planning is my fix! I am seriously thinking about subscribing to ridemax again. We did it last year, and it worked great! It was very useful in helping me realize what we could fit in a time frame. BUT, I don't want to rush from attraction to attraction, either. Where oh where is the happy medium?

On our AK day last year, the heat index was 110.:scared1:

I've never done ridemax. However, I am going to get the verizon ap for the parks on my phone. I've heard some great reviews from the people here on the Dis who have used it.

Love the pics of Ariel and your girls.:cloud9:

[flipflopmom]

On our AK day last year, the heat index was 110.:scared1:

I've never done ridemax. However, I am going to get the verizon ap for the parks on my phone. I've heard some great reviews from the people here on the Dis who have used it.

Love the pics of Ariel and your girls.:cloud9:


110!!!????? I meant to say that it was 97 in July, I knew it was very hot for a week in June last year, that must have been when you went! How did you deal with it?:scared1:

[Planning fanatic mom]

110!!!????? I meant to say that it was 97 in July, I knew it was very hot for a week in June last year, that must have been when you went! How did you deal with it?:scared1:

We took long afternoon breaks and didn't get to do everything. We only rode Dinosaur once and never did get to see FOTLK. We didn't walk the trails either. I did not feel well that day. We called it an early day. I remember that was the night we ate at Chef Mickey's and that was great. We stayed at WL, so we were just a short boat ride away.

You make do, but I kept saying to myself. WE ARE AT DISNEY WORLD!!!!!

[dismagiclover]

Love the Exposition Hall pictures! So sad we never made it in there. I was planning on it this trip, but that is not going to happen:rolleyes1 I was there during that heat wave in June last year! It was hot. All the CMs kept telling us it was really hot for June. But we managed just fine. We went to the parks in the morning, hit air conditioning when we could, went swimming in the afternoons and went back to the parks in the evening. I thought it was great! But it was hot! I compared our park plans. None of our days match up, but who knows. Maybe we'll spot you on the monorail or something!

[dellasgirl]

Just joining in
Those Dresses are soooooooo cute-and affordable!
We will be down there the same time frame-june 21-27 staying at CR
We played with the idea of renting points and staying in Bay Lake Tower-but DS
has always wanted to stay in CR and since this trip is to celebrate his HS graduation he got his wish
Your plans look great
Oh and we are also driving from Va-10 or so hours

[flipflopmom]

We took long afternoon breaks and didn't get to do everything. We only rode Dinosaur once and never did get to see FOTLK. We didn't walk the trails either. I did not feel well that day. We called it an early day. I remember that was the night we ate at Chef Mickey's and that was great. We stayed at WL, so we were just a short boat ride away.

You make do, but I kept saying to myself. WE ARE AT DISNEY WORLD!!!!!


That's a great motto!

Love the Exposition Hall pictures! So sad we never made it in there. I was planning on it this trip, but that is not going to happen:rolleyes1 I was there during that heat wave in June last year! It was hot. All the CMs kept telling us it was really hot for June. But we managed just fine. We went to the parks in the morning, hit air conditioning when we could, went swimming in the afternoons and went back to the parks in the evening. I thought it was great! But it was hot! I compared our park plans. None of our days match up, but who knows. Maybe we'll spot you on the monorail or something!

That's true, I'll have to ingrain your pictures to memory!!!! It was just a fluke we went to Expo Hall, we had a cert. for a free photopass picture, so while we waited, I took the girls to the back for pictures. Glad I did, now!

Just joining in
Those Dresses are soooooooo cute-and affordable!
We will be down there the same time frame-june 21-27 staying at CR
We played with the idea of renting points and staying in Bay Lake Tower-but DS
has always wanted to stay in CR and since this trip is to celebrate his HS graduation he got his wish
Your plans look great
Oh and we are also driving from Va-10 or so hours

We are in SW VA, but it averages 12 with potty and stretching leg breaks! Maybe we'll run into you sometime! I do love those dresses! I might end up getting all the ones I posted. :idea:

[flipflopmom]

So, now that I have some ideas for dresses for DD2, I am moving on the rest of my stuff! Here's what I have on my shopping list so far:

From Amazon:
memory cards for camcorder and digital camera
extra battery for camcorder

From etsy:
dresses for DD2, I need to get her measurements, make my final selections

Sierra Trading Post:
See if they have new teva mushes for the girls - NOT IN THEIR SIZE. :(

From mousepinsonline :
Pins for the girls. We kind of got into this a little last year. I got some really inexpensive pins for the girls, and gave them one each morning that was symbolic of a character/park we were going to that day. I'd also like to pick up a grab bag of pins for them to trade. They have a grab bag of 25 for $45. That seems like a lot, so I am thinking maybe give them 5 each to trade, and then keep the rest. That should have us set for the next 5 years!!!

Pre order Photopass CD
Last year we were the photopass stalkers, and I got a lot of great pics.

Disney Store:
Keep checking for cheap t's for the family

For me:
I am now down 39 pounds. So I am going to be in need of clothes. I am going to have to try these on, to find out the size, so not sure when/where I'll do this.

Dollar Store: Replenish needs from vacation box. I'll go through this soon.

[dismagiclover]

Looks like you are prepared! Are there smaller lots offered on mousepinsonline? Congrats on being down 39 pounds! That is just awesome!:woohoo:

[flipflopmom]

Well, I got the pins ordered. They do have a smaller bag, just five in the grab bag. Here is the link:

http://www.mousepinsonline.com/tp40/Application.asp?app=Store01&C=3182&ID=18152

Disney store had a few cute tanks my DD10 might wear, but had some really cute tote bags, too. I am a tote bag fanatic! I might have to get a few. They also had some WDW hoodies on sale for $20. I might get each of the girls one and put it up for Christmas.

[dellasgirl]

Since my 'girls' are older we aren't doing pin trading--so glad your girls are.
Our closest disney store(Greensboro nc) closed :sad1:

[flipflopmom]

Since my 'girls' are older we aren't doing pin trading--so glad your girls are.
Our closest disney store(Greensboro nc) closed :sad1:

I hated that one in four seasons closed, it was our favorite!!! Also the closest to us.. We must be really close, I am in Patrick county! I love the deals on disneystore.com, though!

[dismagiclover]

I'll be excited to hear what pins mousepinsonline sends you!

[dellasgirl]

I hated that one in four seasons closed, it was our favorite!!! Also the closest to us.. We must be really close, I am in Patrick county! I love the deals on disneystore.com, though!

we are in Pittsylvania county and yes we are close you are just on the other side of Henry county
I am going to check out the deals on disneystore.com

[flipflopmom]

we are in Pittsylvania county and yes we are close you are just on the other side of Henry county
I am going to check out the deals on disneystore.com

As an Averett graduate, with nephews at Twin Springs and Tunstall Middle - Hello! That's too funny!

[flipflopmom]

Only 9 more days until I can preorder the photopass CD! Last year we were the photopass stalkers, and got some really great photos. For us, it is definitely worth the investment!

Here is the link for a pre-order discount:
http://www.disneyphotopass.com/previsitoffer.aspx

[dellasgirl]

As an Averett graduate, with nephews at Twin Springs and Tunstall Middle - Hello! That's too funny!

Oh My Goodness--it is a small world after all--no pun intended:rotfl:
My kids attend/graduated from Chatham HS
Good going on the photo pass pre-order--it really is a savings isn't it?

[flipflopmom]

Sorry I've been MIA lately. I had oral surgery last week, and my final exam is due for my Master's class on Tuesday. Once it is over, watch out - THE PLANNING BEGINS!!!!

I am getting more and more excited, and my planner is filled with to-do lists!

[dismagiclover]

Good luck on your final! And let the planning begin:goodvibes

[flipflopmom]

So, I needed to get some "techie" stuff, which always leads to an amazon order for me. I was out of printer ink, which totally is not Disney related, but anyway.

I ordered a new memory card for the camera, a memory stick for the camcorder, and an extra battery and charger for the camcorder. Already have an extra for the camera.


This week I finally broke down and ordered myself a laptop. I've been putting it off for a year now, and it's becoming apparent with grad school that I need one. I'll be taking it to WDW, as DVC we can access the internet for free.:cool1:

DH, Anna Kat, and I all have Ipod touches, but there is only wired ethernet. So I ordered a travel router for DH as a surprise for Father's Day. He will be really excited, and we'll use it a lot when we travel for DD's gymnastics meets, too.

That led me to thinking about putting together a Father's Day gift basket to give to DH when we get there. I might give him the router early, so he has some time to figure it out. Otherwise, we'll never get out of the room! We are checking in on Father's Day, so I want to put something together for him to open after his dinner at Ohana.

He's not a huge drinker, but appreciates international beers, especially on hot days. I thought about getting a good friend's DH that shares the same appreciation ;)to get 1 or 2 of several different ones that he likes. I hate beer, so I'd be no good. I am trying to think of other fun stuff to do for him, all trip related of course, but I am kind of stuck!

I did the whole Mickey's Welcome thing from the Disney Florist last year, and it was great, but I don't know that I want to go the route of $100 for a bucket of beer from them. I will probably put together some welcome bags for the girls with gum, their pins I ordered for trading, maybe even pressed penny books if I can find them, gift cards to spend, maybe a few dollar store trinkets. I want to get some collapsible baskets for the room, and thought I'd just bag those up in there.

DH might like a new WDW hat, although he prefers to proudly proclaim himself a Hokie. He wants to tour, eat, and get lots of rest and swim time. Not real sure what I can add to help him out, other than the DxDP I already did.

Any ideas?

[dismagiclover]

I'm definitely not one to ask about what to do for Father's Day. I'm actually taking my 3 kids and abandoning my husband for Disney World that weekend. Of course now that I think about it a week all by myself sounds like a pretty great gift;) I'm sure both your DH and your kids will love whatever you come up with!

[dellasgirl]

Our last trip we got DH a massage at the GFSpa--don't know if this is something he would like but mine sure did--he spent the rest of the day with a HUGE grin on his face:lovestruc
In fact he is getting the same thing only from a place at home--cost is so much more affordable:)
Glad you are feeling better from the surgery and good luck on your upcoming final

[michellem1118]

Only 9 more days until I can preorder the photopass CD! Last year we were the photopass stalkers, and got some really great photos. For us, it is definitely worth the investment!

Here is the link for a pre-order discount:
http://www.disneyphotopass.com/previsitoffer.aspx

Did you know that you can call DVC for a discount code, too? They'll email it to you, you apply it to the pre-order, and it saves you another $50, making the pre-ordered CD a whopping $49. You just have to call member services and ask for it. :thumbsup2

[flipflopmom]

Did you know that you can call DVC for a discount code, too? They'll email it to you, you apply it to the pre-order, and it saves you another $50, making the pre-ordered CD a whopping $49. You just have to call member services and ask for it. :thumbsup2

Thanks for the reminder. I had heard that, but forgot it. Sounds great! Is there a trick to entering both on the website?

I was browsing for disney Father's Day ideas, and found this website that I have never heard of before.

https://************.3dcartstores.com/

They have WDW items I haven't seen from the Disney store online, like the Mickey Rice Krispie treats my girls LOVE, pressed penny books, etc. It does seem like some things are WAY overpriced, they are actually selling the celebrate buttons that you get there for $3.00, but I think the Krispie treats are the same as you pay at WDW, maybe $1.00 more. They have lots of Goofy's Candy Shop treats, too. Still nothing for DH is striking me.

I did think about a massage, but fitting one in the schedule might be the trick!

[michellem1118]

Thanks for the reminder. I had heard that, but forgot it. Sounds great! Is there a trick to entering both on the website?


The photopass website defaulted to the $99 offer for me, so I just entered the DVC code, and it changed the price to $49.

[flipflopmom]

The photopass website defaulted to the $99 offer for me, so I just entered the DVC code, and it changed the price to $49.

Well, that deal is no longer working. No more DVC codes, as of last week. :rolleyes:

Did a little online shopping yesterday. Disney store had some sundresses for $10, tees and tanks for $5-7. I decided to go that route rather than those adorable ETSY dresses. Trying to save a little money since I had to pay for that oral surgery last month!

I got Sophie 3 sundresses, and AK a tank and a tee, myself and DH a couple of t's, the mickey ears family decals that I have been wanting, and some WDW hoodies for $20 each for the girls for Christmas.

Last year we went so crazy on souvies, I really want to try to cut down on that this year! I told the girls to pick one or 2 things they really want. I have to get something with the castle on it, and DH probably won't want anything. Last year he got a hat. :rolleyes:

I got a few things at WalMart this weekend, also, to organize my room, cuz I'm OCD like that!
*3 section small popup laundry hamper to contain the shoes.
*a collapsible drawer organizer. Thought it would be good to drop wallets, lanyards, etc. in when we go back in the room.
* also picked up a little first aid box, chapstick, straws for the refillable mugs (easier to pack than a sippie for Sophie), ibuprofen for kids and adults, travel size febreeze, shampoo and conditioner, stickers for the girls, and twistable crayons for the road trip!

Getting closer! 39 days.:cool1: Still haven't ordered the photopass CD. I am kind of having second thoughts. $100 is still a lot, but we did get good use of it last year. It was nice to have family pictures, and the vain me wants pics since I've lost weight! :laughing: I've got a few days to make that decision.

[dismagiclover]

I say go for it with the CD. They say you can always get a refund if you don't end up with pictures you like. Plus you deserve to show off that weight loss:thumbsup2

[J.C.&ALI'SMOM]

flipflopmom, I saw your pre-tr in your sig. We are VT fans as well and will be at WDW on June 16. If you see a big guy in his VT t-shirt surrounded by a wife and 2 girls, be sure to say "Hi!"

[flipflopmom]

flipflopmom, I saw your pre-tr in your sig. We are VT fans as well and will be at WDW on June 16. If you see a big guy in his VT t-shirt surrounded by a wife and 2 girls, be sure to say "Hi!"

HEY_THAT COULD BE US!!!!!!!!!!!!! DH is a big guy, sure to have on a VT hat, surrounded by wife and a 10 yr. old a 3 year old!!!! What days are you doing which parks!

We must live pretty close to each other, too! We're about an hour south of VT.

[Mom2Elliot]

Just read your whole PTR! We are in VA too, up by DC. We were planning on driving, but DH's job changed and he couldn't be gone as long as we had initially planned so we broke down and are flying again. Of course, flying on the weekends was prohibitive so we "had" to add on days before and after our planned trip at BLT! DH is flying in later and leaving earlier.

Those Etsy dresses are adorable! But $10 Disney store dresses are a really good value!

So jealous of your BLT purchase! We stayed there last year right when it first opened and loved it (we had a 40% off code.) This year we were fortunate enough to get the code as well, so DH said go for it! Unless we are able to get codes again in the future, it will be back to a regular room at the CR for us. No way would I get DH to buy into DVC :sad1:

Be sure to update with how your trip went and especially how you did on the DDPL with the weight loss!

[dolfinjuls]

Hi! I just found your ptr! I didn't know you were going so soon! I can't wait to hear all about it...will keep me going till our trip!

I know you're iffy on Tony's, but we tried it last year and really enjoyed it! I was very skeptical going in because of all of the bad reviews, but we all enjoyed our meals. I've even been going back and forth on cancelling Crystal Palace and getting a Tony's ressie instead. But figure I should keep CP for the girls!

[flipflopmom]

Hi! I just found your ptr! I didn't know you were going so soon! I can't wait to hear all about it...will keep me going till our trip!

I know you're iffy on Tony's, but we tried it last year and really enjoyed it! I was very skeptical going in because of all of the bad reviews, but we all enjoyed our meals. I've even been going back and forth on cancelling Crystal Palace and getting a Tony's ressie instead. But figure I should keep CP for the girls!

Hey lady!!! We ended up cancelling this one before I read your post. It was just too much food for one day!

Well everyone, I've neglected this little PTR! An update:

*Since we weren't leaving until really late Saturday from WDW, I called to see if anything was open for HHI on that night on the way back. Of course not, but there was 1 lake view studio at BLT open, so we get an extra night! :banana: We aren't telling the girls, just going to pack up and check out, the DH is going to be a hero and say "I'm not ready to go home yet. Let's have 1 more night!"

*Packing has begun! I've got my Disney tote box all ready to go with glow sticks, ponchos, shoe organizers, etc. Toiletries bag is packed, and we are packing the girls' clothes today! I got them a bunch of T's from Disney store on big sale, and they haven't seen them yet, so today will be a fashion show, try me on kinda day. I have the distinct feeling Sophie will want to keep at least one of her new sundresses on!

*Pixie dust is flying at our house! Here's how we've been getting ramped up!

:wizard:Watching shows I DVR'd last year from Season of Disney on Travel channel

:wizard:The girls made a countdown chain. Of course, Sophie was pulling one off every time she walked by. I had to stop her, or we would have already left. :rotfl:

:wizard:Playing dinner table games. Name your favorite restaurant, favorite ride, favorite attraction. Make hidden Mickey's with your food (the kids do this consistently anyway). Last night, it was tell the first letter of something and a clue - ride that starts with S, etc. Anna Kat came up with all these on her own. She's super excited!

:wizard:The disney playlist is constantly going! I got the 4 Parks, one World CDs and Wishes CD last year, so those and all the other disney songs are always in the background. My favorite? Almost There from Princess and the Frog, and the Welcome song from MK.

Cashed in our change box, we had $60 in change since Christmas. A little extra gas money!

We're Almost there!

[flipflopmom]

So jealous of your BLT purchase! We stayed there last year right when it first opened and loved it (we had a 40% off code.) This year we were fortunate enough to get the code as well, so DH said go for it! Unless we are able to get codes again in the future, it will be back to a regular room at the CR for us. No way would I get DH to buy into DVC :sad1:

Be sure to update with how your trip went and especially how you did on the DDPL with the weight loss!

You never know what might happen! The pixie dust might fly your way, too. What convinced DH was the thought of more relaxing, since I know I'll get to go back, I won't cram too much in. We have the promised Wednesday sleep in, late breakfast, pool afternoon, nothing until dinner day. I hope I can stick to it!

[dolfinjuls]

You never know what might happen! The pixie dust might fly your way, too. What convinced DH was the thought of more relaxing, since I know I'll get to go back, I won't cram too much in. We have the promised Wednesday sleep in, late breakfast, pool afternoon, nothing until dinner day. I hope I can stick to it!

Exactly! Never in a million years did I think my DH would even consider buying DVC! Well he decided one day to do a tour. I didn't even want to go with him because I knew I'd be upset we couldn't buy. Well he was all for it. Even though two years ago was our "only trip". :laughing:

[flipflopmom]

OK, so now it is 4:30 am. :surfweb: We will be leaving in approximately 2 days and 13-15 hours. This is my first "I'm too excited to sleep" morning, wonder if I'll have a few more?

I finally decided NOT to preorder photopass. It's looking REALLY hot, so I'm not sure they will be worth $100! We'll still take a few, have the photog use our camera, and if there are one or two I want, I'll buy those.

I have massive amounts to accomplish in the next two days!

Today's to-do list!

#1. Finish all the projects I have due for my master's class this weekend. IF I can get that done and off my mind, I can settle in!

#2. Get the swim suits, shoes, my clothes packed, other than my running stuff I'll use in the am and wash super quick to pack. Girls clothes are done. DH is still getting his together.

#3. Get the laundry as close to done as possible. :laundy:

#4. Get the girls car bags ready. DVD's, pillows, blankets, Mickeys to sleep w/ in the car, books, Ipod, coloring stuff, stickers, etc. They are spending the night w/ grandparents tomorrow, beginning at noon, so they've got to have everything together they want today!

#5. Get DH to tell me if he wants me to pay cash for DDP, or put it on his debit card. If debit card, dep. the money.

#6. Clean out my dog's crate, contact the dog sitter to remind her, find a key for her, and type out numbers, etc. for her.

#7.Give a list of our numbers and FIL's number to our next door neighbors in case they notice everything.

#8. Confirm my ADR's

#9. Finalize all my planning documents, and load them into mine and DH's ipod touch via air share

#10. Finish charging all electronics, extra camera batteries, and pack those.

#11. Clear off memory card, since I can't find the one I ordered to take with us. :headache:

#12. Take DD to gymnastics, drop her off, and come back. DH will pick her up. So 1.5 hours driving this afternoon.

#13. Clean my bathrooms and kitchen, and basically everywhere else. Change the sheets. I've dusted, and I am saving the floors for tomorrow.

#14. Make girls clean their rooms.

Whew. I've got waayyy more to do than I have the energy for! Off to work on my master's class stuff, while it is QUIET!