March 23, 2003 4 day Cruise Who's Going?

[floridaminnie]

We couldn't wait until Dec. 2003 for our next cruise, so we decided to book a short one during Spring Break to help us with the wait till our 7 day cruise. Anybody else out there going?

[floridaminnie]

Anyone? Anyone? Anybody out there?

[floridaminnie]

bump

[Bonnie Voyager]

We'll be there too :sunny: It will be Hubby and I, 8 year old Son, and Grandparents in connecting cabin. It will be our first Disney cruise, but we've cruised a lot on other ships. It will be my Parent's first cruise though. We love Disney and we love cruising, so it was a good choice!

[floridaminnie]

This will be our second Disney cruise. We went this past July on their 7 Day western and fell in love with Disney Cruising. It will be myself, my 3 yr old daughter and my parents. We are going b/c we can't wait until next Dec. for our next cruise. LOL We are already planning on doing the Lady's night at the Spa. My daughter can't wait to go back to the Kid's club. SHe loved it there and I had to force her to leave. I was beginning to think that we were going to be the only ones on the boat!

[floridaminnie]

Anybody else going?

[Bonnie Voyager]

Surely someone else out there is sailing on Wonder with us? Oh well, we will have a blast on that big empty ship, won't we :earseek:

[singledismom]

We'll be there. 2 single moms taking there 2 children. My son, 8 and her daughter, 12. Were doing WDW first as part of the Land and Sea package. This will be everyones first cruise. Can't wait.

[floridaminnie]

You are really going to enjoy yourself! Bonnie, how was your girl's only cruise last month?

[Bonnie Voyager]

I know we are going to have a terrific time! I've never had a bad time on any cruise! My "Girls-only" cruise was terrific. We had a group of 13 ladies attend. We met up with a larger group of cruisers that I had met on the internet. It made for a delightful experience. I've already booked another "Girls-only" cruise for next Summer! We are really looking forward to checking out the Disney Cruise. My Son (8) still doesn't know we are going. We are telling him Christmas morning. He will be thrilled. What we are not telling him, is that his Grandparents are joining us and will be in a connecting cabin adjacent to us. He will find that out when we arrive at the port and he spots Mom-mom and Pop-pop in line! This will be my 9th cruise and my Son's 2nd, but it will be my Parent's first cruise. They are very excited too! I'm thrilled that they decided to join us for selfish reasons too...hopefully Hubby and I can slip away every now and then and have some fun on our own ;) ;) ;)

See you all in March!

[singledismom]

I'm bumping this up, because I know there has to be more of us out there- I hear it's supposed to be filled to cap.

[hsteacher]

We'll be there too. DH, DD 18 yo and DS 11 yo along with myself. Third Disney Cruise and can't wait. We aren't telling my DS until the day we leave. He becomes very unfocused on school and does nothing but watch the DCL video until we leave so we aren't telling him this year. We're telling him that DH is going on a busines trip and we'll tell him at the airport. I have secret places I can pack so he won't see that and since it will be summer clothes he won't miss that either. My DD is more excited about surprising her brother and keeping this a secret.

[Bonnie Voyager]

I'm impressed your 18 year old wants to go! Our 19 year old Daughter wanted no part of it. So we are leaving her behind (under the careful watch of our neighbors). She hates to fly and is terrified to be on the water, so cruises are out! and flying to get to the cruise is certainly out too! I have dragged her on 2 other cruises (we drove to both of them), but she was so panic-stricken the whole time she could not enjoy herself, nor could I with concern for her. She is excited about her little Brother getting to go on the Disney Cruise though. She can't wait to see his face on Christmas morning when he finds out about it. He's like his Mom and Dad....Cruising is a good thing!

So, hsteacher, are you by any chance....a Teacher? I am a School Nurse! We are taking our Son out of school for the cruise. Our Spring Break is not until late April this year. He's in 2nd grade so it shouldn't be too big a problem to play "catch-up" when we get back. Our school policy is that you can not have the work ahead of time. You must make it up after the fact. I think it will be worth the sacrifice.

Well, nice chatting :earsgirl: See you all onboard!

[singledismom]

bump !!!

[floridaminnie]

bump

[Bonnie Voyager]

I was just curious what you all were planning on doing at Freeport? When I booked this cruise, last year, I specifically booked it for the day at sea, but, as you know.....it was switched to a day in Freeport instead. I was very disappointed about the change, but not to the point that I changed my cruise date. We are spending the Nassau day at Atlantis (we've done it before and loved it! We booked a room at Comfort Suites for the full privileges at Atlantis). I have not read anything encouraging about Freeport. We don't want to do an excursion. We like to just go off on our own. I guess we will either take a cab to Port Lucaya and maybe try to check out the shops and the beach or take a cab to Deadman's Reef and do some snorkeling. I was wondering what other's had in mind. Any new ideas would be welcome! We will probably spend most of that day on the ship as that was why I wanted the sea day to begin with!

[floridaminnie]

I'm going on this cruise to help me through till my 7 day December cruise. I don't plan on getting off the boat at all. When I looked at the excursion, the only thing that was of interest was the dolphin excursion, but I thought it would be a little costly for me and my 3 year old dd. When I looked at the Navig., there are a lot more activities onboard to do while in port than on the 7 day cruise. I"m going to make all my port call, "days at sea":jester:

[singledismom]

We don't have everything set in stone yet, but I do know my son and I are going to do the dolphin encounter in Freeport and my friend and her daughter are doing the horseback riding. My son and I are beach people, so we will probably just do the beach thing while in Nassau during the day and my friend and I would like to check out Atlantis that evening for some nightlife and gambling. I do have a question for you veterans......Are there any problems with getting back on and than off the ship again while in port?

[floridaminnie]

I've been on the 7 day, not the four day before, but we never had a hard time getting on or off. Even when we aren't docked up to the port, with an excursion you have an assigned area to meet on the boat. Getting back on wasn't a problem for us, but the busy time is the later that you wait and the closer you are to the time the boat is leaving.

[floridaminnie]

We are less than 100 Days!

[Bonnie Voyager]

On Christmas morning the secret was revealed. I found the most adorable "stuffed" Disney Cruise ship with all the characters in it (Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy). He unwrapped it and looked at me puzzled. I said "what is it?", he said "a fake disney cruise ship". I said "well, how would you like to see the real one?" He was delighted! Only 3 months to wait! Now he can share the excitement!

[floridaminnie]

I'm so glad! Now the packing can begin. LIke you said, we only have 3 months to plan!:jester:

[singledismom]

Bonnie Voyager, did your son like his Christmas surprise?!?!? Are there anymore cruisers out there joining us?

[Bonnie Voyager]

We watched the Disney Cruise Video (marketing promo video) together and he was so thrilled. He has cruised before (not Disney), but has always wanted to do The Disney Cruise. My Parents live down the road from The Disney Vero Beach Resort and we have stopped by the resort a few times. There is a model of The Disney Cruise Ship there and everytime my Son saw it he asked, "can I ever go on a Disney cruise?". He also has been dying to go to Atlantis and is very excited that it is part of our agenda! He will be missing school to go on the trip and I haven't told his Teacher yet. I'm a little nervous about that. I am School Nurse at his school though, so I am missing work too. I have someone covering for me, so it won't be a problem, but my Son's Teacher is a bit conservative and I'm not sure how receptive she will be to the idea of my Son missing school for a cruise (not that I will change the plan, but since I work with her I'd hate to have her angry with me).

[Dustin & Shelby's Mom]

YEAH!! :earsgirl: :earsboy:

DS (11) and I will be there. This will be our second cruise and our first 4 night. Last year during spring break, we did the three day and absolutely loved it. My son has been asking all year when we will be able to go back. I am glad I can finally give him an answer.

[floridaminnie]

Less than 10 weeks to go!

[Mollie Jo]

We'll be there too! Our first Disney cruise and the first ever for our DS's 11 and 6! Can't wait!:Pinkbounc

[singledismom]

I havn't info. my sons teacher he will be missing some school yet neither. He'll be missing a total of 6, were doing WD first. I'm not sure how she will react, but I'm going to take the Friday off we come back to go to school with him and help him get caught up.

[floridaminnie]

singledismom,

I'm keeping my fingers crossed and sending some Pixie Dust your way!

[Dustin & Shelby's Mom]

Bumping back up. Anyone else going with us?

[Bonnie Voyager]

Looks like we will have a grand time with the ship being mostly empty!
;)

[singledismom]

Thanks sdoane, your pixie dust worked. I told the teacher on Mon. and she's alright with it, she's even going to make up a packet of work for him to take, so he doesn't have to lugg books with him. Don't forget gals if your booking any excursions, next Wed. will be 60 days !!!!

[Bonnie Voyager]

I still haven't told my Son's Teacher! I almost did it yesterday when she was sitting next to me at a faculty meeting, but chickened out! I think I will wait till closer to sail date to do it! There is nothing she can do about it and she will probably be fine with it. I don't know why I let it concern me.....but it does! He's only going to be missing 3 1/2 days (fortunately, our school has 1 and a 1/2 days off that week anyway) and he's only in 2nd grade. Truly not a big deal. I'm the one who is making a mountain out of a molehill :eek:

[singledismom]

Bonnie Voyager,
I'm passing the Pixie Dust on to you. I don't know where all our fellow cruisers ours- but I went to DCL site and for kicks looked our days up and it said no cabins were available.

[floridaminnie]

I was wondering if anyone has received their paperwork from DCL yet. Last year when we went, we had them by now. Last time we went through our travel agent and this time we went through DVC, so I don't know if that matters or not. :rolleyes:

[floridaminnie]

singledismom,

I just went to the DCL website for kicks and they still had rooms available. What might have happened is that they have booked enough rooms with one or both of your kids age group. I'm still keeping my fingers crossed that they ship won't be too full. Oh well, it wasn't that bad in July when we had a full ship.:jester:

[Bonnie Voyager]

Cabins often open up right as final payment is due! Many people back out before they have to pay the big lump. I also often find cabins available in the "wee" hours of the night. Many people put holds on cabins but never book it and never officially cancel. When the option is up those cabins automatically go back into inventory in the middle of the night. I've found cabins for my Cousin on several sold-out ships that way!

It will soon be time to start thinking about packing!!! I usually tan (tanning booth) a few weeks prior to cruising, but I am thinking about going in my natural "white" skin this time and just slather myself with sun protection. I really am trying to be more conscientious about my sun exposure, but after years and years of sporting a dark tan, it is very hard to convince myself to expose my white thighs to the public...even if it is a ship full of strangers! We'll see how it goes. Maybe I'll try some sunless tanner. Anyone ever use one of those? I remember those old orange lines they left in my teenage years but I hear they have improved quite a bit. Any help appreciated!

[singledismom]

Hi Bonnie Voyager and others,
I actually started the tanning process last night ( I'm a burner, so have to take it slow and takes longer). I have tried some of the sunless tanners. The best one I have used is by Estee Lauder. My tan place actually has something new, I don't know the exact name... It's one of those stand up booths that sprays you with a fine mist of sunless tanner. I personally haven't used it but I have a friend who said it was great and you only have to go once a week.
Haven't received our docs. yet, but my friend is the one that actually booked our trip through her travel agent, so I'm not too clear as to if the TA get the docs or do they still get delivered to us.

[Bonnie Voyager]

I'm at work right now (remember I am school nurse at my Son's school) and I just slipped a note in my Son's Teacher's mail slot telling her about his upcoming absence! That was much easier than actually telling her in person. Now, after she gets the note and I run into her in the hallway, I can just say, "Hey, Mrs. _____, did you get my note?" The ice will already be broken. No Problemo! Phew, I am glad that's done! Now I just have to wait and see what her reaction is! I'm sure she will be fine with it. She is a very nice lady, but very strict when it comes to her teaching. Well, back to work for me! There are sick children laying right here beside me wondering what I am doing on the Disney Boards :rolleyes:

[floridaminnie]

So, don't leave us hanging. How did it turn out?

[Bonnie Voyager]

I've run into the Teacher a couple of times in the hallway, but never at a time when we could actually converse (she was always on the way "somewhere" with her class, so I just smiled and said "hi". She also smiled and said, "hi", and I know she got the note, so I suppose there must not be an issue. I believe if she had concerns she would have found time to let me know.

My Son is getting very excited about the cruise! I've shown him pictures online and we watch the Disney Cruise Video. He loves to talk about it! It's going to be great!!! I'm thrilled that at least one of my kids shares my excitement for cruising! My Daughter wants no part of it (which is why she isn't joining us...she is 20 years old though, so she will be fine in our absence). We've planned a trip for her to Tampa to visit her best friend who moved to Florida last year. Everybody is happy!

:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce::Pinkbounc

[floridaminnie]

If you have th travel channel, make sure to tape it for 7pm (eastern time) Sunday, because apparently they talke about DCL and show flubber being made in the club. Just another tape to add to our collection while we wait!

[Bonnie Voyager]

I'm always missing the good stuff! I wish we did have TheTravel Channel!

[Dustin & Shelby's Mom]

Just wondering if anyone booked through DU? Wanted to know if we could look forward to one of their stateroom gifts. I just transfered our reservation over from DCL and got DU's rebate. :D

TIA

Dottie

[hsteacher]

As a high school teacher, I never get upset when parents take their kids out of school for family events and vacations. I feel time with family is WAY too short and though it would be great if everyone could vacation during scheduled school times, I understand that the corporate world doesn't always allow the same schedule as the school world. As I look at my senior in high school, we definitely didn't take enough vacations together when she was younger (thought we couldn't afford it) and now I'm cramming everything in hoping that she will continue to enjoy vacationing with us. My advice -- tell the teachers to calm down if they give you a problem. Yes, school is important BUT so is your family. Students who don't come from good, cohesive, caring families don't always make the best students. It's a balance of all of us working together. Enjoy -- the cruise is worth it and just bring a bit of work along if you have to.

[Bonnie Voyager]

Finally had an opportunity to talk to my Son's Teacher in person! She said, "Have a great time!" Full steam ahead now!

[floridaminnie]

I'm so glad to hear that!:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :crazy:

[floridaminnie]

Did you guys get your excursion packet? We didn't receive ours and when I called to book our next cruise they said that they would remail us one. And I'm still waiting :confused: Anybody get their cruise papers yet. I saw that some March 15th cruisers received theirs so ours can't be too far behind!

[Bonnie Voyager]

I'm sure it won't be long now though. I never get too concerned over the documents anyway. As long as my name is on the roster, I know I'm getting on the ship- with or without documents :teeth: The latest I've ever received documents was less than two weeks prior to a cruise. I did do a last minute change of passenger once though and my new cruisemate had to pick up her paperwork at the pier. It went very smoothly. I know people enjoy having their documents in hand (as do I), but it is also nice to know that it really isn't a problem if the documents do not arrive in time.

[singledismom]

I was just wondering the same thing. When I had called to book our excursion the CM had asked me what the excursion # was after the description. I told the CM that I didn't have that info. because I hadn't received our docs yet.... were still waiting for them.

[floridaminnie]

Singledismom, that is weird. We received our last July way before we hit the 60 day mark. I was thinking that this time was because we book through DVC.


Did you guys want to meet somewhere for a DIS meet? Was just wondering?!?!?

[Bonnie Voyager]

I have no plans to cancel, but I will admit that I am more than just a little concerned about flying down to Florida and spending time at Disney prior to the cruise. I really don't have any fears about being on the ship but I have never been fond of flying in the first place and with all the media hype lately I am really getting scared to fly! I know that I am probably in much worse danger at home here on the Northeast corrider (right between Washington D.C. and New York City) but it is really hard to just ignore all the hype and assume everything will be okay. My Husband mentioned the dreaded "C" word this morning (cancel). I pretty much blew it off and said lets just wait and see what happens. I won't cancel just for fear, but if real things start to happen here in the U.S., I might have to re-evaluate the situation. Anyone else have thoughts on this?

[floridaminnie]

I guess that I'm lucky, because all I have to do is drive about 2 hours east and I'm at the port. There has been some "weird" things happening like in England, but I think the media is playing everything up also since there isn't any "real" news going on. For example, so many of them have concluded what happened with Columbia when the experts at NASA are still putting the pieces together. I also have a hard time seeing someone doing something on a plane, because most people on the plane won't allow something like 9/11.

[Bonnie Voyager]

This is completely off-topic, but do you know how long it takes to drive from the Tampa area to Vero Beach? My Parents live in Vero Beach and Hubby and I are thinking about retiring in Tampa and I was just curious how long it would take me to reach my parents? My Parents are hoping we will decide to retire in the Vero Beach area, but we've always liked the Gulf. We are about 10 years from retirement though, so nothing is written in stone ;)

[floridaminnie]

It's about 2 to 2 1/2 hours. You take state road 60 all the way. I haven't done it personally, but a friend from college use to drive home every other weekend. That is our "home" for DVC, but we'll being going home the first time this July.

[Bonnie Voyager]

We've been there often. When I go visit my folks I like to take my Son to the Character Breakfast over at the Disney Vero Beach Resort. It's a very relaxing atmosphere with a touch of Disney thrown in! I am thrilled to hear it is only about a 2 1/2 hour drive from Tampa to Vero! Somehow I had imagined it was much farther!

[floridaminnie]

The TAmpa area is a wonderful area to live in. We actaully live right outside of Tampa. (Riverview, Brandon, Valrico area). I have lived almost everywhere being an air force brat. This is the longest I have ever lived anywhere (going on 9 years) and I love it here. There is so much to do and the weather is wonderful. I can go to the nicest beaches in the world whenever I want and I can go to WDW on a whims notice. Plus the cultural richness in entertainment and is food is out of this world. If you have and questions just ask!:D

[hsteacher]

Received docs on Tuesday. Very exciting. Only a few more weeks!

[floridaminnie]

I green with envy!:bounce: That means ours should be coming any day now!:smooth:

[Bonnie Voyager]

...yet another connection- I have been an Air Force Wife for 26 years. Hubby is in the Reserves now, but I know all about that Air Force life! I've loved it! That is part of the reason we are leaning toward Tampa versus Vero Beach for retirement! We will be close to MacDill AFB and can utilize the facilities (Commissary, BX, Medical, etc) It has been years since I've been on the Gulf Coast of Florida (we lived on the Gulf coast of Texas for a while, but it was only so-so at the beaches there). Is the water still nice at your beaches? It use to be so blue and lovely 30 years ago, but when we were in Texas 8 years ago, the Gulf was more of a light-green and not as clear as I remembered it in Florida from many years ago.

Well, we still don't have our documents, but I know they will be here soon! Only 5 weeks from tomorrow until Hubby, Son and I are headed to Orlando! We are spending 3/22 (which is my 46th Birthday) at the Contemporary Resort and joining some friends who live in Kissimmee for Dinner. 3/23 we will drive over to the ship where my Son will have yet another big surprise!!!!! Mom-mom and Pop-pop will be waiting to board the ship with us!!! YIPPEEEEEEEEE!!!!!! I am keeping my fingers crossed and saying my prayers that everything moves forward without a hitch!

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

[singledismom]

Hey fellow cruisers,

Count us in for a Dis meet, just let us know when and where.

[singledismom]

Does this weather stink or what ?!?!!?!? I've started organizing and getting things ready to pack to take my mind off all this snow and ice. I'm thinking happy thoughts....Sun, WDW,ocean,spa,shopping, above freezing weather......Is it time to leave yet ?!?!!??

[Bonnie Voyager]

I just awoke and looked out back. My first thought was, "gee whiz, someone stole my patio furniture!" then I realized it was hidden under about 4 feet of snow!!!! We already had about a foot of snow left over from a prior snow when this most recent blizzard hit us! And it's STILL SNOWING!!!!! It's very pretty, but I am afraid we will be stuck for quite some time with this snow! I think today is a great day to watch the Disney Cruise Line promotional video, again!!!!

[floridaminnie]

Our weather is actually pretty nice even with the cold front moving through. I packed my DD bag last night. My mother thinks I'm crazy, but then I want to make sure I bring everything. 10 years ago when we moved to Alabama, we went on a trip to WDW and I forgot my swimsuit. :eek:

[Bonnie Voyager]

I need to have my Son try on his shorts! He has had a huge growth spurt this Winter and I'm not even sure he has anything that will fit him for warmer weather! Thank Goodness the Spring clothes are starting to show up in our stores! I ordered him some new swimwear off the internet last week, but I didn't even think about shorts and sandals and stuff like that! Time's a wasting! Better shop quick ;)

[singledismom]

We got our cruise docs. today!!! I think I will get out the suitcases and start packing. I too had to buy shorts for DD8. (just add water and watch them grow) I found some good deals though from the 85% off racks at our Khols and a pair of sandles from Wal Mart for 3 bucks :-)

[floridaminnie]

HOpefully ours will be coming this week!:eek:

[Bonnie Voyager]

I guess I will have to dig my mailbox out of the snow so the Postman can deliver!
:earseek:

[floridaminnie]

When would ya'll like to have a DIS meet? We could have it during the Bon Voyage Deck Party if you plan on going. Or another time?!?!?! Only 32 more days!

[Bonnie Voyager]

Sounds good to me! We will probably all be on deck then anyway!

[tanfl89]

Hi from Tampa!!! We are going on the 23rd and are soooo excited.

My son got a Make-a-wish so that is how we are going.He is really looking forward to this and i know it will make him happy.

Make a wish has been awesome to us and we are so thankful.


Can't wait until March!!!!!


Toni

[Bonnie Voyager]

Welcome Toni! How old is your Son? Mine is 8. That is wonderful that you are able to bring him on the Disney Cruise. I have heard wonderful things about the Make-a-wish organization. I hope you have a terrific time and make some "Wonder"ful memories! :earsboy: :earsgirl:

[tanfl89]

Hi Thanks for the reply. Logan is 12 years old and we have a 5 and 2 year old daughters.


They are all getting excited and we have been on all the sites to see pictures and read about the cruise.


It truely is a dream vacation.



Toni

[floridaminnie]

Welcome Toni from another Tampa resident. Your kids are going to love the cruise! I have a 3 yr old daughter.

[Bonnie Voyager]

...and I started trying on shorts and bathing suits this morning! I guess I am officially in "cruise mode" now :tongue:

[floridaminnie]

Has anybody else received their tickets yet? I'm still waitng and hoping!:rolleyes:

[Lil]

Well, we have a flight, a rental car, a hotel, and a tiffany town car to ride in from rental car place to port. We have excursion confirmations, but no cruise documents. Am I getting nervious, you bet!!!! Now, all we have to do is dig out 3 feet of snow drifts to get into the shed to get our extra suitcases.

DH will call Disney tomorrow to inquire about lack of documents.

The clothing thing is driving me nuts.....we are the people who take two carry-ons on the plane and stay a WDW for a week. Wonder if anyone will notice if I wear the same long black dress for two nights.....ummmmmm. DH is seriously considering renting a tux.......I guess this must have been a very good tax year. :)

We are so excited......it's been many a year since I was on a cruise (34 to be exact).

[Lil]

Hey, I'm on the wrong cruise!!!!!

[floridaminnie]

Lil...What cruise are you suppose to be on?

I'm still waiting for our paperwork. On another thread I read that DCL switched from Fed-Ex to UPS. Just to let ya'll know who haven't received your paperwork yet also.

Just to let you know that it's going to be a high of 80 today in Florida. This weather is getting me into a real bad cruise mode. My poor students are going to be sick of hearing about my cruise. They're counting down with me!:jester:

[floridaminnie]

I just called DVC member services today and my Doc were printed and sent out yesterday! Now I just have to wait for the Big Brown truck to show up!

[floridaminnie]

My Docs arrived yesterday!!!! I think I'm going to go to B&N today to see if they have the new Passporter in the stores yet. I'm curious in what type of info is in there! See ya'll in 3 weeks!

[Bonnie Voyager]

It's supposed to be the "newest" edition. I got it for $12 which didn't seem bad. It has been shipped, but hasn't arrived yet. I hope it gets here before we leave for the cruise! It won't be nearly as useful after the cruise :smooth:

[floridaminnie]

I ordered the passporter at their website today, but I bought the deluxe version. This way I can just buy the refills next year. It should be here next week! B&N locally would have to order it for me. Oh well.

[floridaminnie]

We spent the whole day today shopping for everything for our cruise. I think I have everything. DD is already packed. I just have myself to pack. I'll begin that in two weeks!:jester:

[Bonnie Voyager]

Way cool!

[floridaminnie]

I'm hoping that mine comes today. I order the deluxe version Sat. directly from the passporter website and it was mailed via UPS Monday. If it arrives this week, my classes might be ready silently so I can read it!;)

[singledismom]

Only 13 more days till were off to WDW to start our Land/Sea. Anyone else packed and ready to go?!?!!??

[Bonnie Voyager]

...but my "cruise pile" is in the closet floor ready to be placed in my suitcase! The hard part is done...deciding what to take! It'll be here before we know it!

[floridaminnie]

Brianna is all packed to go. I know what clothes I'm taking and plan on packing my other bag (baggies, Lysol, fan etc.) this week. I'll actually start putting clothes into my suitcase probably this weekend or early next week!

I was telling my classes today about what I'm doing during Spring Break and they all want to go with me. One said he was going to follow me on the ship. I'm so happy there are adult only places on the ship, but none of them are going anways!:jester:

[floridaminnie]

I received my passporter yesterday and read all of it last night. Excellent!:smooth:

[floridaminnie]

With only 15 more days to go, I can NOT wait a minute more! I will be packing this weekend. Don't know about you guys, but I'm ready to go NOW!:Pinkbounc

[floridaminnie]

It's hard to believe that we have less than 2 weeks to go. I'm playing the guess what I'll be doing this time in 2 weeks game. HOw's everyone else doing?

[tanfl89]

We are in the freaking out stage:bounce: I haven't got everything packed but have a long list ;)

Hey you are in Tampa also How long does it take you to get to the Cape? We are going to leave early Sunday morning instead of going on Sat.

I can't believe it's sooooo close.This is our first cruise and we are very excited.


Toni

[Bonnie Voyager]

I added my Son's pile to mine, so now we just have to wait for Dad to create his pile and we will be all set to load the luggage! He's going to work on it this weekend. I won't actually put it all in the suitcase until the evening before we depart. But once the piles are done, the task is pretty easy! Today I am going in search of suntan lotion. I never realized it was so hard to find up here this time of year. We have a little left from last Summer, so if I have to I will just wait till I get to Florida to purchase some new lotion. We are spending the day prior to the cruise in the Disney area (not doing the parks this time, but relaxing at the resort and hanging out at downtown Disney at lunchtime). We have good friends from Kissimmee who are meeting us at The Contemporary for Dinner. We met them on another cruise, last year! Can't wait to add some more cruisebuddies to my list of friends :wave:

[singledismom]

Us Land/Sea people are down to the single digits, only 8 more days for us !!!!! Are we setting a time and place to meet during the Sail Away party or are we just going to wing it and everyone look for Sdoane and Brianna :-)
Bonnie, I found suntan lotion at my Walmart, I also saw some at Walgreens.
I'm not having any luck finding snorkle gear for me, I found my DS's at Target, but they don't have adult ones in stock yet. (what sense does that make?) We are renting a car on Friday to go to the Pirates Dinner Show, does anyone know if there is a Walmart or something near WDW, where I could pick up an inexpensive one ?

[Bonnie Voyager]

I found some suntan lotion today at CVS drug store. Our Walmart and KMart's actually only had "baby" sunblock out. Oh well, I'm set now! I saw snorkle sets at Sam's Club a couple of weeks ago (grown-up sizes). Oh geez, I just looked out the window........it's snowing......AGAIN!!!! BLECH!!!! GET ME OUT OF HERE!!!!!!!!

[floridaminnie]

tanfl89, I believe it took us about 2 hours to get there. I know that we are leaving at 8 am and are shooting to get there around 10:30 adding in the potty breaks with the doughnut breaks!

The targets and Walmarts here in Florida have a whole isle full of suntan lotion. I like to get "regular" suntan lotion along with the spray that dries right away and don't have any probs finding it down here.

When is everyone eating. We have the late seating so we won't be in much of a rush after the deck party if you want to lounge around afterwards. Can't wait to meet ya'll!

Suzanne

[Bonnie Voyager]

We have early seating.

[singledismom]

We have late seating too.

[floridaminnie]

Did you guys want to meet at 3pm at the Promenade Lounge? That way it's before the life boat drill, before the party and dinners won't conflict.

[Bonnie Voyager]

Is that deck 3? I'm too lazy to go check my deck plan right now ;)

[floridaminnie]

That is on deck 3. It is a bar where noone else really hangs out. We usually go there for a quiet drink. IT's also where the big portholes are.

[Bonnie Voyager]

That sounds great to me! I've trying to post a picture or at least a link to a picture of me and my Family so you will know who to look for, but I can't seem to get either to work. Here is the url to some photos of us. If the link doesn't work, Just cut and paste and you'll see me ;-)

http://community.webshots.com/album/57495614nZKuJr

[floridaminnie]

Cute famly Bonnie! Now at least we can find each other!:jester: Anybody else in at 3pm?

[singledismom]

We will try our best, but because we don't have our time set in stone yet to leave WDW, not too sure what time will be arriving to port.

[Bonnie Voyager]

We hope to be at the pier around 10:30! I'd much rather be waiting around at the ship than anywhere else!! :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[floridaminnie]

We also plan on being at the pier around 10:30. We are going to leave here around 8 am and that should get us there on our target time with our donut and potty breaks. I can't believe we are in single digits!:eek:

[Bonnie Voyager]

I'll be looking for you in the terminal! I have a horrible cold right now! I feel like crap! I sure hope it's a quick one and not one of those long, lingering bugs! I hate it when I'm sick on vacation!!!

[floridaminnie]

Sending some pixie dust your way Bonnie. Even though we have had nice weather down here, the pollen has been bad. All my students have allergys that have turned into some nasty stuff. Right now Brianna is trying to hold off a cold. Hopefully everyone will be nice and healthy in 9 days for a wonderful vacation!

[floridaminnie]

Is everyone packed yet? I still haven't packed myself. I just haven't had the energy the past couple of days. The kids at school are just sucking all the energy out of me. Only 8 more days!:Pinkbounc

[Bonnie Voyager]

Suzanne,
My friend in Kissimmee warned me to take my allergy medicine before I head down next weekend! I wish we had some pollen up here (not really) but with piles of snow still in view, I fear Spring is not just around the corner for us! I'd love nothing more right now than to bake in the sunshine! With this cold I just can't get warm enough! Thank goodness we don't have much longer to wait! Hubby will be working on his "cruise wardrobe" this weekend and then we will pretty much be packed (but in piles not in luggage!) Saturday 3/22 (our travel day) is my Birthday and I am treating myself to a "day of beauty" on 3/21 (manicure, pedicure, haircut). It has become my pre-cruise ritual and once it begins I will truly be in "cruise-mode" :tongue: This is going to be one looooooooooong week!

[Bonnie Voyager]

We are packed (mostly...just need to throw in our toiletries). I am still feeling lousy with this cold and this morning my Son woke up with larengitis :eek: Oh dear! I hope we can all mend in the few days we have left and Hubby can steer clear of this bug!!! I am going to think positively though! I will be better!!! My Son will be better!!!! (I hope :( )

[floridaminnie]

I need to do laundry today, before I can pack myself.:rolleyes: Brianna has a birthday party to go to also today. I don't know why I'm dragging my feet now, but I can hardly believe that it's almost here!

[floridaminnie]

Ok guys, my laundry is don (it's clean but still in laundry baskets!:jester: ) I'm packing myself tonight even if I stay up all night doing it!

Bonnie, are you feeling better. It has been nice down here for the past couple of days, but the rain has returned. Hopefully it'll help Brianna's allergys! My mom and I are going for our pedicures and manicures this Sat. I plan on doing the Lady's night out at the Spa Monday. I'm treating myself!

Also, anyone who want to go DIS meet is at 3pm this Sunday in the Promendade lounge on deck 2. Hope to see you all there and everyone has a safe journey down here to Florida!

[Bonnie Voyager]

My Son went back to school today, but is still sniffling, sneezing, and coughing. I am still feeling awful. It's been over a week now. I am better than I was though, so I am still hopeful for a full recovery before we sail. We are ready to go! Bags are packed! We are looking forward to our DIS Meet at 3:00p.m. on 3/23 at The Promenade Lounge on Deck 3. Suzanne, I still bet we will find each other in the pier terminal in the morning though!

[floridaminnie]

Bonnie...we will probably run into each other in the terminal. I'll be the one banging on the doors let me in let me in!:p

[Bonnie Voyager]

Just be careful you don't mess up that nice manicure!

:Pinkbounc :bounce:

[floridaminnie]

I just called today to make the appointment for my manicure and pedicure and they are all booked :( I might do the manicure myself now and just get a pedicure on the ship. Oh well. More money to spend on drinks! Only 3 more days!

[Bonnie Voyager]

Suzanne, Do you get the feeling you and I are going to be alone at our DIS meet? We may just have to move it to the terminal at 10:30 a.m. since that's where I know I'm going to see you anyway :) It's been days since anyone else has posted here. It's become our own private chat room :crazy: Where is everyone? :smooth:

[floridaminnie]

I tink sinlgedismom is at WDW right now. I believe she was going ahead with her group for a couple days there. Where is everyone else?!?!? hsteacher, Dustin & Shelby's mom, Millie Jo and tanfl89?!?!? Anyone other than Bonnie and me going to the DIS meet:jester:

[Bonnie Voyager]

Well, today is my last work-day before the cruise. Tomorrow is my "day of beauty" ;) manicure/pedicure etc... The clock is ticking soooooooooo sloooooooooooow today! It is torture.
:crazy: :earseek: :tongue: :mad: :rolleyes: :earsgirl:

[floridaminnie]

I finally started packing today! Only 2 more days to go!:crazy:

[Bonnie Voyager]

YIPPEEE! Today is my fun day! I am now laughing at my "sunless" tan. As always, I have funky lines around my feet and hands, but it is still better than showing up white as a ghost! I'm pretty sure I won't be the only northerner with a bad fake tan! I tan really easy, so in a couple of days of limited sunshine I will be fine. I usually hit the tanning salon before a cruise, but decided it was time to stop frying myself. Should have stopped sooner! I have lots of freckles and sun spots (fortunately nothing serious as of yet!) I am feeling much, much better today. Still sniffly, but worlds better! My Son, Michael, is on the mend too. His sinus infection is starting to subside. He is very tired though, so I hope he perks up by Sunday! It will be okay for him to be a little tired tomorrow (Saturday) as that is our travel day and he can rest in the car and on the plane. Well, Hubby and I are off to take an early walk this morning and get our blood flowing and then it will be time to start my fun day of beauty!!! I hope everyone else's days go quickly! See you soon!!!

[floridaminnie]

Go and have fun Bonnie! I'll be thinking of you while I teach (or try to teach) my children today. At least we are on a reduced schedule today, because of the talen show. I'm done at 12:25 and I don't have to take them for lunch or the talent show. I must have been a good girl somewhere! :jester:

[Bonnie Voyager]

Well, my day of fun is over. I am now officially "ship-shape":earsgirl: Now I just have to wait for my Son to get home from school and then after Dinner we are going to a birthday party for a friend of his. After that it will be bedtime! We will be getting up at 3:00 a.m. to head to the airport! This might be my last post before we leave. If I don't talk to you again.....see you at the ship!!!!!!!

:earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsboy: :earsgirl::earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsboy: :earsgirl:

[Bonnie Voyager]

So, did everyone have a good time? It was very nice meeting those of you that I did meet! We just walked in and have sooooo much to do here at home. I will give a full report eventually, but need to rest for a while first!!!! Welcome home everyone!

[floridaminnie]

We had a wonderful time also. I'm glad that you made it home safely! I can't wait for your report and to find out how DCL compares to other cruiselines!

[singledismom]

we missed the meet. By the time we got settled it was quarter till 3 and we still hadn't eaten. We had a great trip though!! (will post later) I think we were in line behind Suzanne for pictures on Tues. night, but the time I realized it was you guys, I had lost you in the crowd :-) I have to say, I don't think we will do WDW and DCL together again, it was just toooooo much.