In the Spirit of the Season [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

annmarieda

12-29-2011, 06:13 PM

In case you have never come across me here before and or this is the first time you are reading along, let me give you some introductions to help you to know who we are.

First, there is me (Ann) Sadly, I just turned 42. (but not on the trip :goodvibes, so I was still 41 then ;)) I am the mother to 4 children. I was blessed with 2 boys and 2 girls. I have been married to my high school sweetheart since 1989 and we began dating in 1987. He continues to be the love of my life (even if he tries my patience at times ;)) I work for News America as a field rep part time and with it, I pay for my addition. What is that addiction? Well, Disney of course! :rotfl: I can't seem to stay away from Disney. I have always been fond of Disney, but once I took my first trip to DL in 2002, that was it! I was hooked. You can see in my signature how many times I have been and where I have stayed. I think someday i would love to see that list much longer. Soon though, for the sanity of my entire family I will have to start branching out beyond Disney and enjoy other destinations :scared1::scared1: (I know, sounds a bit blasphemous, eh?) A favorite character of mine has always been Tinkerbell. I think because she reminds me of me... means well, is good at heart, a little testy at times and sometimes...sometimes down right naughty. Recently though, Mickey and Minnie have warmed my heart and I can't seem to not smile when I see them. As for a ride, well that would depend on my mood. However, BTMRR is always a hit as is POTC.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/Wedding/IMG_0008-1.jpg

Then there is my dear husband, Steve. He too is 42 years young. He is a software engineer. He currently is working for a social networking site. He has some health issues and so sometimes he is not up to a lot of "go go going". However, he still enjoys Disney and attempts to join me every now and again. For him a favorite character would be Eeyore. The first emo.. Eeyore tends to also speak to Steve's forever somewhat pessimistic yet humorous state. Steve loves POTC and IASM. He feels it isn't a Disney trip until he has rode them.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0231.jpg

Next is my youngest son, Alex. He is now 16. Last trip he spent barely more than the time it took to eat a meal with us. This trip, was it different? Well, you will just have to read on. :goodvibes:goodvibes Alex isn't really fond of Disney in the same way that maybe a girl of his age is. He likes the more extreme rides and characters...well, forget it. He use to absolutely hate them. Now, I would say he has learned to tolerate them.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0230.jpg

Then there is my dear youngest child and daughter, Zoe. She will be 7 soon. She is a joy in my life. She struggles with health issues surrounding a birth defect she was born with. You would never know though as she is very bright and tends to not complain. She loves any and all princesses and also the extreme rides.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0233.jpg

annmarieda

12-29-2011, 06:13 PM

A few tid bits that also might help to know...

First, as you see in the introductions our older two did not come with us this trip. It did of course, make me very sad. I wanted all of them with me. However, when we first planned the trip neither were suppose to be "home" for Christmas.

So backing up further (just in case you didn't follow along all year) The year was a doozy. We knew it would be and shortly after Christmas of 2010 I booked our trip.

There was the fact that our oldest ds (Zach soon to be 19) is in the military and spend part of the year away. Originally, it was unclear as to if he would be home for Christmas. However, he chose to not go further in his training at this time and come home. He came home at the end of September.

Then our oldest daughter (Akira age 21) got married to Josh (also age 21 and only older than Kira by minutes..and yes, when they go out for their birthday they are mistaken for twins now since they share the same last name:rotfl::rotfl:)

Kira was going to be moving across state last fall in order to attend school. This meant she would be gone over Christmas. However, Josh has had good luck getting his career started and so they have stayed here.

Our precious, Zoe also had surgery at the end of June to help further correct issues associated with her birth defect. It has been a challenging year from there on out. What was meant to be a positive change has brought a lot of stress and quite honestly pain. Within 12 hours of being released from the hospital in July, she had to return due to infection. Once home it was hard to become accustom to her new routines and weeks were spend wondering if the neighbors would call CPS on us. Then school started and there was nothing but trouble in getting the nurse at the school to assist Zoe. October brought a procedure to help (hopefully) stretch a new channel that was created for her since it constantly was trying to "heal" closed. Finally, just days before our trip, Zoe developed an abscess near the channel and we came terrifyingly close to having to cancel our trip. The doctors were able to fix her up and NOT take her into emergency surgery, but she was left with medical tubing that remained in place for the duration of the trip. (and currently remains in. Also approximately 24 hours after being home required an ER visit and the threat of another hospitalization) Currently, Zoe is scheduled for another surgery and hospital stay in just a few weeks.

And last, there were challenges with Steve's work situation as well as mine.

So as you see, there was a need for this trip. :goodvibes

annmarieda

12-29-2011, 06:38 PM

(12/9-Day 1) Up and At Em (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2851699&page=2)
(12/9-Day 1) Up and Away, a long travel day to the World (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43573038&postcount=19)
(12/9-Day 1) Meets and Arrivals (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43585489&postcount=36)
(12/10-Day 2) To Sleep or to Play? Our first day in DTD (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43617588&postcount=63)
(12/10-Day 2) Afternoon Tea at the Grand Floridian (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43621478&postcount=76)
(12/10-Day 2) Our last night at Pop Century (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43652476&postcount=113)
(12/11-Day 3)Checking out of Pop and heading to DTD (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43694882&postcount=141)
(12/11-Day 3) Announcing Her Royal Cuteness (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43736201&postcount=171)
(12/11-Day 3) A Very Rainy MVMP (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43740861&postcount=178)
(12/12-Day 4) A Royal Breakfast (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43771914&postcount=211)
(12/12-Day 4) Throwing Out the Ridemax Plans and Meandering through MK (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43782942&postcount=226)
(12/12-Day 4) Fire and Roasted Meat (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43810038&postcount=253)
(12/13 - Day 5) A Playmate for Zoe (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43838621&postcount=268)
(12/13 - Day 5) Serious Resort Touring in Wacky Weather (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43860336&postcount=283)
(12/13 - Day 5) Food, Food and more Characters (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43876457&postcount=296)
(12/14 - Day 6) Poor Alex (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43933275&postcount=323)
(12/14 - Day 6) Two Girls Alone in DHS, What Could be Better (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43980931&postcount=349)
(12/14 - Day 6) I scrubbed the floors, now may I go to play? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43991623&postcount=362)
(12/15 - Day 7) Waiting on Buses Interferes with My Plans Yet Again. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44058427&postcount=395)
(12/15 - Day 7) How to enjoy and Yak Attack in AK (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44071246&postcount=402)
(12/15 - Day 7) Joy and Excitement and a Belly Ache (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44198530&postcount=424)
(12/16 - Day 8) Relaxing and Joking Around Makes for Wonderful Family Time (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44208624&postcount=435)
(12/16 - Day 8) Glory and Hallelujah (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44246911&postcount=441)
(12/17 - Day 9) And Another Beautiful Morning (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44283012&postcount=452)
(12/17 - Day 9) Traveling Back to before the Age of Technology Wasnt on MY Itinerarary (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44291121&postcount=462)
(12/17 - Day 9 )Seriously, How Did We Survive? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44337495&postcount=488)
(12/18 - Day 10 )A trip to the TTC, would I be lucky?? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44353898&postcount=494)
(12/18 - Day 10 )Little by Little, the day wore on- Part One (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44372744&postcount=507)
(12/18 - Day 10 )Little by Little, the day wore on- Part Two
(http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44372771&postcount=508)(12/18 - Day 10 ) Fantastic Fantasmic Evening (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44397014&postcount=518)
(12/18 - Day 10 ) Late Night Dinner at the Movies
(http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44443007&postcount=542)(12/19 - Day 11 ) The Plan; To Be Up at 6am? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44471473&postcount=552)
(12/19 - Day 11 ) F is for Fantasyland and Fun! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44483011&postcount=564)
(12/19 - Day 11 ) Time to Recharge (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44496205&postcount=566)
(12/19 - Day 11 )Dismeet, Dinner and a 3am EMH
(http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44523623&postcount=576)(12/20 - Day 12) Our Last Day in AK (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44561465&postcount=600)
(12/21 - Day 13)A Very EARLY Last Day at Epcot (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44691723&postcount=629)
(12/21 -Day 13) How Much Can Be Done When Crowds Are High? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44720029&postcount=643)
(12/21 -Day 13) How late is late? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44808857&postcount=661)
(12/22 - Day 14) Saying Good Bye (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44894725&postcount=683)
(12/22 - Day 14)What Do You Mean My 6 Year Old's Seat Is NO Longer Next to Mine (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44926111&postcount=697)
(12/22 - Day 14) Calling Mr. Davidson... Mr. Steve Davidson
(http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44985480&postcount=709)(HOME) 12/23 and Finally Home...Mostly (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44994138&postcount=719)

lovethattink

12-29-2011, 06:44 PM

Am I first? LOL. I'm here. Great start.

annmarieda

12-29-2011, 06:58 PM

Am I first? LOL. I'm here. Great start.

You are!!! :woohoo:

mickeystoontown

12-29-2011, 07:04 PM

Joining in for the fun! Great intros so far.

Grumpy's Wife

12-29-2011, 07:08 PM

I'm here to read along. I hope your family had a wonderful trip.

lilpixiebabe101

12-29-2011, 08:25 PM

I'm here Ann! Yay!!

Love the name and all the reasonings behind it!

When is Zoe's newest stuff scheduled?

tankgirl427

12-29-2011, 09:14 PM

I'm here I'm here! I promise I'll finish October's TR so I can start December's! We already have a title for it, but I"m not telling!:rotfl:

ladytink75

12-29-2011, 10:01 PM

Ann I'm here.. Can't wait to hear all about your trip..

swwake

12-29-2011, 10:25 PM

Yay! You started! I am subscribing.

leshunlenese

12-29-2011, 10:55 PM

Hey Ann! I am joining along!

annmarieda

12-29-2011, 10:56 PM

Joining in for the fun! Great intros so far.

Thanks! and :welcome::welcome:
I'm here to read along. I hope your family had a wonderful trip.

So excited to make new friends!!! Thank you for joining. :goodvibes

I'm here Ann! Yay!!

Love the name and all the reasonings behind it!

When is Zoe's newest stuff scheduled?

Yay! :wave: Zoe will have her next surgery 1/13. It is coming up quick. She wants to plan her bday party and I am just not sure how to break it to her. She could very well be in the hospital come her birthday :sad2:

I'm here I'm here! I promise I'll finish October's TR so I can start December's! We already have a title for it, but I"m not telling!:rotfl:
:woohoo::woohoo: I can't wait for the title. :scratchin I just wonder what the title could be...

Ann I'm here.. Can't wait to hear all about your trip..

:yay: Your trip will be here soon. I was just looking at where you are staying. You will be doing a bit of bouncing around, yes?

Yay! You started! I am subscribing.

Good! I am glad you are here!

annmarieda

12-29-2011, 10:58 PM

Hey Ann! I am joining along!

:yay: another familiar face!

annmarieda

12-29-2011, 11:35 PM

Up and At em

Who would possibly think that getting up at 4:15am would be necessary when catching a flight over 5 hours later? Well, partly Steve but ultimately me. You see aside from the four of us having flights to catch, Zach needed a ride into Seattle for "drill". We were set for Kira and Josh to take us to the airport, but when the plans changed to involve taking Zach for drill we had to rethink our route. Steve could not handle the thought of driving to Seattle first and then coming back down south to the airport. His "what if" involving us getting stuck in rush hour traffic was compelling. So I was happy to adjust our wake up time to accommodate the need to drive us first to the airport and then have the kids drive up to Seattle next so that Zach would arrive on time. However, best laid plans (which could have also been the title for this TR) I stayed up till 1:30am packing.

Once we were all up and the car loaded, we made our way to Kira and Josh's apartment. They live minutes away (the town is small and I think you could walk the city limits in very little time). We arrived there at 5:45am and it was not long before we were on our way to the airport. :woohoo:

As a part of my crazy planning, I booked the guys on a separate flight from Zoe and I. There were reasons behind this that seemed not so important once we were at the airport. The reasons were 1. I used air miles to purchase both Steve and Alex's tickets, 2. Southwest was cheaper oop than the United flight that the guys were on, 3. I wanted to see if Southwest was really as bad as Steve swore it was and last 4. with the "2 bags fly free" policy with Southwest, I could save on bag fees by checking not only my bag and Zoe's, but the guys bags as well.

But I digress. The reasons did not seem important as we all sat around a table in the airport, enjoying each others company and eating our first meal (if you could call it that) of the trip together. Those pictures in the introduction are taken while we waited. Well, all except for the one of me. That one was actually taken on the day of Kira's wedding.

It wasn't much that we ate, and I did not take pictures. Zoe and I split a breakfast sandwich. Alex had a breakfast burrito. Steve may have had a banana. I believe he purchased one, but I am not certain that miss Zoe did not snag it. Due to how little sleep we had got, of course Steve and I found it VERY nice that there was a Starbucks right next to our table.

Before long, it was time for us to go on to our separate gates. Not only were they not near each other, but they were on opposite sides of the airport.

Up next: Up and Away, a long travel day to the World.

debrapagliasotti

12-29-2011, 11:51 PM

Joining in! popcorn:: We will be at WDW next year for Christmas :santa:

dizneeat

12-30-2011, 12:10 AM

Okay, I have a good excuse for being late to the party :scared1: - I was sound asleep when you started your trip report! :rotfl2: 9 hours time change are not fair!!!!!

But I am here now, ready to read ...... going back to do that now! :thumbsup2

annmarieda

12-30-2011, 12:23 AM

Up and Away, a long travel day to the World

Not only were our flights on different carriers, but they were at different times. Zoe and I had a flight to Kansas City at 9:40am. Steve and Alex were flying to Chicago at 10:55. We also each had layovers, but at different times. For this reason, we had little to no communication all day. I have little to no idea of how things went for the guys.

For Zoe and I though, things were wonderful. After a short walk to our gate, I checked in with the gate agent. I explained that Zoe had a disability and without blinking an eye I was handed a special pre boarding pass. I am glad I did not pay the extra $10 each for the “A” boarding group because we boarded before they did. In fact on the leg to Kansas city we were only the second party to board. This gave us amazing seats. I was quite happy with the seats. There was more leg room than I remember any of our previous flights having. (normally we fly Alaska). The seats we had were also very close to the front restroom which was a necessary thing because of Zoe’s needs. I have to stop here and laugh. It was not until recently that I had ever stepped into a restroom on a plane. I flat out didn’t use them...even on a long flight from Washington to Florida. Never. Then comes Zoe and her need to frequently use restrooms and now I seem to be making up for all those flights that I never spent a single minute in the restroom.

As we flew over the Pacific Northwest, I was able to get this shot of two of our grand mountains.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0234.jpg

Southwest is very generous by todays standards in what they give you to eat. While it was not a meal or anything that could come close, it was enough to tide us over.

Zoe was amazing the entire flight. I had little doubt she would be anything but pleasant. I mean, she didn’t have another sibling to make her crazy. (oh yes, like Alex taking her coloring book - the one you see her peaking out of in the intro photo, and using green to color the face of a princess. That would be one of those “not so in the spirit” moments that occurred while we waited together at the airport and that thankfully was short lived.)
I was able to doze for about an hour. I think it must have helped because I didn’t feel like I was totally lacking on sleep by the time we reached Kansas City

I can only assume that the guys had an uneventful flight into Chicago. I believe they had Wolfgang Puck Express at the Chicago airport during their layover. They arrived in Chicago at approximately 4:43pm and then left for Orlando at 7:30pm

Meanwhile, Zoe and I arrived safe and sound in Kansas City at approximately
3:10pm. First we went directly where? To a restroom of course. This is where I discovered that the gel pacs that were keeping her medications cold had exploded all over and made quite the mess. Once that was cleaned up we found a quite place to sit and each a lunchable that I had packed for each of us. Our layover was only 2 hours and 10 minutes, but it flew by thanks to a backpack loaded with supplies (ie. princess activities galore) that Betsy had sent to Zoe and my ipad.

I made sure to check in with the gate agent again, and just as easy as before we were granted the special pass. This time we were first onto the plane. I was happy to board not only because I was excited to get to Orlando, but because I found Kansas City to be a tad scary. (no offense to any of you who live in or near Kansas City)

The flight to Orlando from Kansas City was a very short one. Zoe fell asleep not long after we were in the air. This allowed me to take this shot.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0235.jpg

Remember the exploded gel packs for the medicine? Well, I explained what had happened to the flight attendant and she was nice enough to get me a bag full of ice to put the medication into.

As the plane landed at approximately 9:00pm, I was so excited to get off the plane. We were near the front so it meant we would not have to wait long. Zoe too was excited and as we landed she threw her arms around me and said “thank you, thank you so much mama for taking us to Disney”.

I grabbed my personal bag. I grabbed Zoe’s personal bag. I made sure to close them up as they were at our feet for the flight. I packed away anything that was out of them. EXCEPT for the medication that was in one of those bags, you know...the kind that people use when ill. It was sweating quite a bit with condensation so I just sealed it up tight and told myself to remember it because I didn’t want it to get any electronics or paper wet. (note to self, any time I “tell myself to remember something” it never works out well). I then proceeded to grab both our carry on luggage and our personal bags and leave the plane. Where was the medication? Yep,
back in the seat pouch - in a bag, sealed, looking like something someone may have used to well.. get sick in.

Up Next: Meets and Arrivals

annmarieda

12-30-2011, 12:34 AM

Joining in! popcorn:: We will be at WDW next year for Christmas :santa:

Christmas is such a beautiful time. It is crowded though... so please as you read my TR don't be discouraged if I complain about that a bit.

Okay, I have a good excuse for being late to the party :scared1: - I was sound asleep when you started your trip report! :rotfl2: 9 hours time change are not fair!!!!!

But I am here now, ready to read ...... going back to do that now! :thumbsup2

I am so glad you are here, Karin! :woohoo:

dizneeat

12-30-2011, 12:35 AM

Great start to your trip report, Ann!

I had forgotten that you had such an early start, but am glad to read that everything went well, apart from the forgotten meds! :hug:

annmarieda

12-30-2011, 12:41 AM

Great start to your trip report, Ann!

I had forgotten that you had such an early start, but am glad to read that everything went well, apart from the forgotten meds! :hug:

It was a nice start. I think it was probably the most pleasant flights I have ever been on. (except maybe when flights actually gave meals). I was worried about traveling alone with Zoe. Really though, except for my loss of brain power due to lack of sleep and excitement causing me to leave the meds behind, it really was easy.

Stringbean&Wingnut

12-30-2011, 05:15 AM

Joining in!! Sounds like your trip was off to a nice and pleasant start! Hopefully the forgotten medication didn't become a problem!

tankgirl427

12-30-2011, 07:24 AM

How many travel days updates can you get done in one day? LOL. Hopefully you didn't stay up too late to work on it!:thumbsup2

Hmmm I wonder what happens next....:lmao::rotfl::lmao:

Grumpy's Wife

12-30-2011, 07:35 AM

That sure was a long travel day. So glad you made it to Orlando with no problems (well other than the cold packs). Looking forward to reading more.

Laura Loves Tigger

12-30-2011, 07:40 AM

Joining in! I read your PTR. Now I can't wait to hear how the trip went. Sounds like you ha good travel. I don't think there is anything more exciting than arriving in Orlando and walking to the ME!:cool1:

shocky5

12-30-2011, 11:03 AM

Made it here! I'm excited you started your TR! I now officially don't see mine happening until Sunday... Eddie's family arrives today for the weekend, leaving Sunday.

But I'm happy to begin reading yours!!! :goodvibes

veggiemama

12-30-2011, 11:07 AM

Hi Ann!

I'm here and joining in.

What a long, though thankfully 'easy' travel day!

Great start and I'm looking forward to reading more.... hopefully I will get some ideas for my own TR since I have never written one before. :goodvibes:
I think I have a title though :cool1:

annmarieda

12-30-2011, 11:38 AM

Joining in!! Sounds like your trip was off to a nice and pleasant start! Hopefully the forgotten medication didn't become a problem!
:welcome: And as far as the medication... well that will come up soon enough. ;)

How many travel days updates can you get done in one day? LOL. Hopefully you didn't stay up too late to work on it!:thumbsup2

Hmmm I wonder what happens next....:lmao::rotfl::lmao:

Well, I edited and loaded all the pictures from 12/9 to photobucket so I thought it would be easy to get 12/9 done. Especially since there were minimal events that took place. And... I was up late because Zoe took a turn for the worse last night so I was up any way. :goodvibes

And :scratchin I wonder... what could have happened next :rotfl:

That sure was a long travel day. So glad you made it to Orlando with no problems (well other than the cold packs). Looking forward to reading more.

It was a long day, but it was far from over once we got off the plane.

Joining in! I read your PTR. Now I can't wait to hear how the trip went. Sounds like you ha good travel. I don't think there is anything more exciting than arriving in Orlando and walking to the ME!:cool1:

:welcome: I am so glad you joined here too! You are right... nothing is better than arriving in Orlando!

Made it here! I'm excited you started your TR! I now officially don't see mine happening until Sunday... Eddie's family arrives today for the weekend, leaving Sunday.

But I'm happy to begin reading yours!!! :goodvibes

I am so happy you are here! :dance3: I will just patiently wait for you to start yours!

Hi Ann!

I'm here and joining in.

What a long, though thankfully 'easy' travel day!

Great start and I'm looking forward to reading more.... hopefully I will get some ideas for my own TR since I have never written one before. :goodvibes:
I think I have a title though :cool1:

:wave: I hope you get some ideas, but really I am no pro. I just wing it. And titles? I stink at titles and have the hardest time coming up with one. Usually, about half way through writing a report I realize I should have titled it a bit differently. Like "Christmas all year long" really should have been "Dreaming of Christmas all year long" or something to that effect. Anyway, if you have a title I think you are well on your way! At least.. .for me that is a big chunk of the battle. :goodvibes:goodvibes

lilpixiebabe101

12-30-2011, 03:28 PM

:scared1: about leaving her meds! I bet when you realized you completely flipped out!!

swwake

12-30-2011, 03:37 PM

OH no! Not the meds!!

THose are two great photos from the plane windows!

ladytink75

12-30-2011, 05:45 PM

:yay: Your trip will be here soon. I was just looking at where you are staying. You will be doing a bit of bouncing around, yes?

Yeah I sure will be staying in a lot of different resorts but that's okay at least I can say that I stayed in several villias while I was on this vacation.. I'm trying to see if I can raise some money so this way my parents can stay in the same resorts we will be staying in so this way we can be close to each other on this trip. Right now I have the staying at ASM. The first night and the last two nights they will be with me but in between they will be there at ASM

Up and Away, a long travel day to the World

As we flew over the Pacific Northwest, I was able to get this shot of two of our grand mountains.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0234.jpg

Wow what a BEAUTIFUL shot.. Oh how i miss those beautiful peaks.. I sure do hope to make it back home to WA sometime soon maybe next year. I need to make a run to Whidbey Island so I can check on my house up there I need to do some improvement's to that house so a trip up there might be in my future plans.

DisneyKira

12-31-2011, 02:28 AM

I am here! popcorn::

I love that picture of the mountains! I have a goal to get one of those shots on our trip!

flamestarrdust

12-31-2011, 03:35 AM

Joining in! Can't wait to hear all about your trip!

annmarieda

12-31-2011, 11:39 AM

:scared1: about leaving her meds! I bet when you realized you completely flipped out!!

Yep, it was a bit of a "doh" moment. That is coming up though..so keep on reading :goodvibes:

OH no! Not the meds!!!

I know! And the bad parent of the year award goes to....

THose are two great photos from the plane windows!

I have never got pictures out of the plane window. I don't sit in the window seat since I always have kids who want it. Normally there is not enough room to reach across and take a picture. That was not the case on the SW flight.

Yeah I sure will be staying in a lot of different resorts but that's okay at least I can say that I stayed in several villias while I was on this vacation.. I'm trying to see if I can raise some money so this way my parents can stay in the same resorts we will be staying in so this way we can be close to each other on this trip. Right now I have the staying at ASM. The first night and the last two nights they will be with me but in between they will be there at ASM

Wow what a BEAUTIFUL shot.. Oh how i miss those beautiful peaks.. I sure do hope to make it back home to WA sometime soon maybe next year. I need to make a run to Whidbey Island so I can check on my house up there I need to do some improvement's to that house so a trip up there might be in my future plans.

I hope you are able to raise enough cash to make that happen... and if you head up this way... make sure to let me know. :goodvibes

I am here! popcorn::

I love that picture of the mountains! I have a goal to get one of those shots on our trip!

:woohoo: I am so glad you are going to read along. We have not had much time together lately and so I haven't really had a chance to tell you about my trip! This way you can read when you have a chance :goodvibes

Joining in! Can't wait to hear all about your trip!

:wave: I am so glad you are here!

annmarieda

12-31-2011, 12:41 PM

Meets and Arrivals

As tired as I was, somehow I had a renewed energy. Zoe and I made our way off the plan and onto the mini monorail. Betsy and I had been texting so I knew that she and her friend Shelly were waiting near the “big tree” for us. We just barely came from the walkway into the main area and I recognized Betsy immediately. It was as though she was a old friend whom I had not seen in a while. I was so excited!

We walked over and I had Zoe hand Betsy a small token (emphasis on the small) of a gift.

We began walking and for some reason (I can’t remember, maybe Betsy you do?) We stopped to take a picture of Zoe near the Goofy statue. Not near the giant tree. The first official tree in Disney, but the Goofy. Also, no group shot then and there. Why? :confused:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0237.jpg

In no time, we were on our way to DME. Unfortunately, we got a MEARS shuttle and not a true Magical Express, so no video for us:sad2:
Despite our excitement, doesn’t Zoe look a bit tired?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0239.jpg

It was on the bus that I realized that the medication had been left behind. :scared1: I think I actually let out an audible gasp when I realized. However, there was nothing that could be done so I sat back to enjoy the rest of the ride.

I can’t remember the stops we made. It didn't seem too long before were we making our way under the archway. On our way, we were able to see fireworks that were a beautiful start to our trip. I don’t know which park they were going off at. (I assume MK) Betsy also shared with me all the messages that people here on dis had been sending. I do not have a smart phone so while on vacation, I do very little "online" communications.

Once we got to Pop, we were greeted and asked if we needed a button. Since I was celebrating my birthday on this trip (kinda) I lingered to receive my “happy birthday” button.:woohoo:

Once inside, the first order was to check in. Betsy and I went up together and we requested rooms near each other. They were in the same building, same floor, almost just around the corner from each other! 50's section room 1425. (I hate that I didn't get a picture of the room number :headache:)

Next we had to address the issue of medication. Shelly sat with Zoe while Betsy and I stayed to speak with the wonderful cm who called Southwest for me. She tried very hard to figure out a way to get the medication back, but since the had been stored in what looked like a “get sick” bag, the cleaning crew likely just threw them out. The cm did give me a refrigerator for the mediation though.

That being done it was time to find Shelly and Zoe. Who had made their way to the restroom where Zoe was having some trouble. I believe it was here that someone came out to request Zoe’s mom come in. Zoe had told them that she was wearing a certain shirt and well, that was actually Betsy. So the person came up to ask Betsy if she was Zoe’s mom.

After quickly establishing that Zoe now had an adoptive family. (Grandma Shelly and Mom Betsy), I went in and found that her tube had come uncapped. I fixed that was quick and we were on our way to our room.

We did have to get a picture of Zoe in the chair sitting at the tree though.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0243.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0244.jpg

Once we got to our building we split up briefly to get settled. In that time, the fridge was delivered to our room and I slightly unpacked. Betsy was able to get settled too a bit and when I made my way to her room, this is what I saw.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0241.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0242.jpg
How she got that up so quickly I am not sure. She also had a tree in her room. (which you will see later up in my room at WL)

Now remember that Betsy had sent a huge backpack full of stuff for Zoe to take on the flight? Well, she had another trick up her sleeve. She gave Zoe and I each a gift bag filled with wrapped goodies. I think the idea could have been to unwrap one a day for the entire trip... but Zoe couldn’t wait that long and while we didn’t unwrap them all that night. They were unwrapped by the next night. My favorite item was a necklace. It was the only one I wore the entire trip. It is a pendant that reads “wish” and then there is a little Tinkerbell that dangles over it. Zoe got a necklace too and was thrilled. A very delicate Belle’s mirror dangles from just as delicate a chain. Betsy truly spoiled us!:cloud9::cloud9:

Since we really had not ate a meal since our lunchables back in Kansas City, despite the time (which was getting late) Betsy, Zoe and I went down to Everything Pop to grab a sandwich to eat.

Finally, Steve and Alex arrived. I learned that their flight from Chicago had been a bit of a challenge. Apparently right as they were about to board, they were forced to check their carry on bags. Then just as they were about to actually head down the ramp TSA pulled them aside to look through their back packs. It delayed them and was only for show since they didn’t do more than what security does at the Disney bag checks.

We said good night to Betsy and then I showed Steve around Pop a bit. I had hoped our bags would be delivered by the time we got back. We got back to the room and got settled in.

Since all of our checked bags (except the ones that the guys ended up needing to check in at Chicago) were on my flight, and that flight came in at 9pm, I assumed that DME would have our luggage to us by around 1am. This is why we stayed up a bit. However, by 1:45am I figured it was worth a call to find out where they might be. I was told that they had arrived at 1am and would be delivered within the hour. So we lightly slept awaiting knock at the door. Finally, at 5:30am, I called again. This time I was told that it is their policy to not deliver in the middle of the night and that is why they were not there. Well, since I had items that I needed that had to be checked I told them I needed the bags in order to actually go to sleep. They brought them right up and FINALLY I was able to solidly go to sleep.

Next Chapter: To Sleep or to Play, our first day in DTD

tankgirl427

12-31-2011, 02:07 PM

tankgirl427

12-31-2011, 02:09 PM

Yacht Club, Beach Club, then CBR, then Pop

tankgirl427

12-31-2011, 02:11 PM

The fireworks were Illuminations. We had the weird guy in the Disney sweater next to us who was talking loudly about how it couldn't be Illuminations and I knew it was, but then we passed by Epcot right as the fireworks were finishing.

tankgirl427

12-31-2011, 02:13 PM

We didn't mess around when we got in, we didn't unpack anything except room decorations until after you picked up Steve.

Okay now back to reading.

Hope you are enjoying the forty posts that goes with me being on your trip with you!

oceanwave

12-31-2011, 02:46 PM

Hi Ann,

Wasn't able to keep up with your pre trip report. Life kinda got in the way and wasn't on the DIS much :eek: BUT joining your Trip Report and hopefully life lets me keep Up!

Looking forward to hearing about all your adventures!

tankgirl427

12-31-2011, 02:55 PM

I didn't care how you opened them Zoe was the one to insist on only one a day!

Stringbean&Wingnut

12-31-2011, 03:33 PM

Well I think that the Goofy status is a perfectly good welcome to Disney!...I mean, Florida! :laughing:

How fun that you and Betsy were able to get rooms close to each other! That definitely is an impressive window display!

That stinks that Steve and Alex's flights didn't go as smoothly as yours! Hopefully you were all rested up enough for your first full day!

veggiemama

12-31-2011, 05:35 PM

Love the shot of Zoe and Goofy.... how did I not see this one in the airport? I think I was too mesmerized by warmth and Christmas Trees. :laughing:

Good Picture of Zoe in the chair/throne with the Christmas tree. No matter how much begging I did, I could NOT get my kids to sit in that chair! :rotfl:

KatMark

12-31-2011, 10:14 PM

Ann, I had no idea you had started this or I would have been here a lot sooner.

I'm subscribed now and I'll be back later to catch up.

In the meantime,

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb136/Luvwrestling/Birthday%20clipart/HappyNewYear2012.jpg

to you and the family.

momabaarjo

01-01-2012, 06:32 AM

Happy New Year Ann! Just wanted to let you know I am reading ...will comment when I get to the computer next week!

swwake

01-01-2012, 09:52 AM

Love the story and all the photos. I have never been to Pop and would like to check it out someday.

Did you get the meds replaced?

How did Betsy decorate that much that quickly?

tinacaplan

01-01-2012, 11:47 AM

Wow! Page four already? I'm here! :goodvibes

lovethattink

01-01-2012, 12:20 PM

Happy New Year, Everyone!!

Ann, your aerial pictures are amazing! So beautiful!

Did I wake you up that first morning?! I know I texted you while the boys were fishing. I think it was around noonish?

I freaked when you texted that you forgot meds on the plane. I told Goofy I might need to run you back to the airport to pick up meds left on the plane. But you texted back you were ok.

Next time I am at POP, I will get a pic of your 1425! I know we are staying there again in February for 2 nights. But if we go to eat to POP to eat in the meantime I'll walk over and take a pic. But you might have to remind me the room #.

That delay in bag delivery was unacceptable!!! I wonder if they have a policy in place not to deliver between x hour and y hours so they don't wake up the guest? Glad it was brought as soon as you mentioned you needed it to sleep!

Betsy, your room window is amazing!! Where did you find the Mickey ear lighted decoration?

Monknmom

01-01-2012, 12:41 PM

Okay all caught up Ann!!! The trip starts out with a nice breakfast together atleast! Everyone looks happy in the photos!
That is a very pretty view of the mountains and that sunset!!!! How amazing! I am really sorry though about Zoe's medicine! Thank goodness though that your a pretty prepared person and had more...
And that was really nice for Betsy and Shelly! I am honestly quit surprised about the way that friends from here are there to listen and talk for good and bad more than people I see every week! Looking forward to more!

tankgirl427

01-01-2012, 01:03 PM

Love the story and all the photos. I have never been to Pop and would like to check it out someday.

Did you get the meds replaced?

How did Betsy decorate that much that quickly?

Hi Susan, Well Shelly and I each had our tasks we were working on while Ann and Zoe got settled. I had putting the tree together and window clings, while Shelly tackled the lights and stuffed animals. She is a seasoned window decorator at Disney, so it went quickly.

Betsy, your room window is amazing!! Where did you find the Mickey ear lighted decoration?

Thanks! We picked that up at Walgreens. Actually Shelly picked it up and showed me and then I had to get them for my house and then I couldn't figure out how to get them to stick to the window. Thank goodness for Shelly! She figured it out in a couple minutes!

Luvmepluto

01-01-2012, 03:19 PM

I was lurking now I am joining in!! Your daughter is so cute!! i hope you were able to get your meds or at least get them refilled.

lilpixiebabe101

01-01-2012, 04:18 PM

disneydreamingdebby

01-01-2012, 07:05 PM

Hi Ann :wave: joining in.

Love your title and your list of explanation...

What a LONG travel day you had...

Your daughter is beautiful. I hope her upcoming procedure goes well and she is able to have her party!

annmarieda

01-01-2012, 08:07 PM

Zoe ran over to it and poised and you asked her if she wanted her picture taken, then both you and Shelly took a photo of her. And the gift wasn't that small! I'll talk all about it in my TR.

PS- Kira come over there too!

PPS - Now back to reading.

I keep trying to get Kira to spend more time on Dis. She has a PTR that she has ever so neglected. :sad2:

Yacht Club, Beach Club, then CBR, then Pop

Oh, thank you! BTW, I found out what Steve's cryptic message regarding the sign (can't remember the word, but it made no sense.) What he meant was neon sign....and actually it was the archway. which to my knowledge is not neo. But he swore the entire trip it was. :confused:

The fireworks were Illuminations. We had the weird guy in the Disney sweater next to us who was talking loudly about how it couldn't be Illuminations and I knew it was, but then we passed by Epcot right as the fireworks were finishing.

:rotfl::rotfl: I wonder if that is the same guy we had behind us on the safari ride. Very loud...commenting the entire time on things.
We didn't mess around when we got in, we didn't unpack anything except room decorations until after you picked up Steve.

Okay now back to reading.

Hope you are enjoying the forty posts that goes with me being on your trip with you!

I enjoyed them a lot. :goodvibes
Hi Ann,

Wasn't able to keep up with your pre trip report. Life kinda got in the way and wasn't on the DIS much :eek: BUT joining your Trip Report and hopefully life lets me keep Up!

Looking forward to hearing about all your adventures!

:welcome: I hope you keep up too :goodvibes

I didn't care how you opened them Zoe was the one to insist on only one a day!

Well, it helped to keep her occupied. I was trying to get things organized and letting her unwrap was a good distraction...so thank you again. :goodvibes

Well I think that the Goofy status is a perfectly good welcome to Disney!...I mean, Florida!
How fun that you and Betsy were able to get rooms close to each other! That definitely is an impressive window display!

That stinks that Steve and Alex's flights didn't go as smoothly as yours! Hopefully you were all rested up enough for your first full day!

It was a perfect start that was for sure! I knew my flight and arrival would be better than Steve's. I feel bad, but I knew it wouldn't go as well.

Love the shot of Zoe and Goofy.... how did I not see this one in the airport? I think I was too mesmerized by warmth and Christmas Trees. :laughing:

Good Picture of Zoe in the chair/throne with the Christmas tree. No matter how much begging I did, I could NOT get my kids to sit in that chair!

To be honest, I can't remember exactly where this is. I mean... we came off the plane, rode the monorail and then I was looking for Betsy. It just seemed to be there.

Ann, I had no idea you had started this or I would have been here a lot sooner.

I'm subscribed now and I'll be back later to catch up.

In the meantime,

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb136/Luvwrestling/Birthday%20clipart/HappyNewYear2012.jpg

to you and the family.

Happy New Year to you as well! I am so glad you are here. :goodvibes

Happy New Year Ann! Just wanted to let you know I am reading ...will comment when I get to the computer next week!

I am so glad you are here.. but please enjoy your vacation. You will be back home soon enough. Believe me... it goes by so fast and even though you have close to a week left... Next week this time you will be wondering where the time went. Catch up on reading later. :goodvibes
Love the story and all the photos. I have never been to Pop and would like to check it out someday.

Did you get the meds replaced?

How did Betsy decorate that much that quickly?

Pop is a lot of fun. It isn't uncomfortable and has an awesome food court.

As for the meds...read on....

And as for Besty and her amazing decorations :confused: I know... it was quick. Crazy quick:eek::eek:

Wow! Page four already? I'm here! :goodvibes

:woohoo: glad you are here!
Happy New Year, Everyone!!

Ann, your aerial pictures are amazing! So beautiful!

Happy New year to you too! And thank you! I never ever ever have got a picture on a plane before. :goodvibes

Did I wake you up that first morning?! I know I texted you while the boys were fishing. I think it was around noonish?

Nope... you didn't. I am not entirely sure what morning you are talking about...but no one ever seems to wake me... so I can be pretty sure you didn't.

I freaked when you texted that you forgot meds on the plane. I told Goofy I might need to run you back to the airport to pick up meds left on the plane. But you texted back you were ok.

that is so sweet of you. It was definitely a bad parent moment. I mean.. I brought an entire medicine cabinet full of items "just in case" but when it counted :rolleyes:

Next time I am at POP, I will get a pic of your 1425! I know we are staying there again in February for 2 nights. But if we go to eat to POP to eat in the meantime I'll walk over and take a pic. But you might have to remind me the room #.

That would be cool. I almost had Betsy do it for me since she was there after I left... but I forgot. It isn't the end of the world, but I kinda think it is neat to have a picture of the room number.

That delay in bag delivery was unacceptable!!! I wonder if they have a policy in place not to deliver between x hour and y hours so they don't wake up the guest? Glad it was brought as soon as you mentioned you needed it to sleep!

They do have a policy.... and somehow front desk doesn't know about it. AND silly me called front desk. Front desk could see they arrived at Pop at 1am..and knew that it should only take about an hour or so to deliver... but luggage services don't go out in the middle of the night. Now I know.

Okay all caught up Ann!!! The trip starts out with a nice breakfast together atleast! Everyone looks happy in the photos!
That is a very pretty view of the mountains and that sunset!!!! How amazing! I am really sorry though about Zoe's medicine! Thank goodness though that your a pretty prepared person and had more...
And that was really nice for Betsy and Shelly! I am honestly quit surprised about the way that friends from here are there to listen and talk for good and bad more than people I see every week! Looking forward to more!

It was a nice moment together in the airport. (other than when Alex took the crayon from Zoe and colored a princesses face green)

As for the meds... I didn't have more. That was the problem.

And...as for friends here on Dis. Yes, I have definitely come to really appreciate everyone here. I have a IRL friend who I mentioned meeting friends in Disney to. She asked if they were real friends or just someone I met online. I had a brief moment of panic and feeling like I needed to justify etc. And then I kinda sorta lied.... but I said friends that I have known for a while. I am sure she knows I lied..after all this is a small town and where would I have come up with these "magical" friends if not but online.

Hi Susan, Well Shelly and I each had our tasks we were working on while Ann and Zoe got settled. I had putting the tree together and window clings, while Shelly tackled the lights and stuffed animals. She is a seasoned window decorator at Disney, so it went quickly.

Thanks! We picked that up at Walgreens. Actually Shelly picked it up and showed me and then I had to get them for my house and then I couldn't figure out how to get them to stick to the window. Thank goodness for Shelly! She figured it out in a couple minutes!

I was lurking now I am joining in!! Your daughter is so cute!! i hope you were able to get your meds or at least get them refilled.

:welcome: I am glad you decided to join in!! Thank you for the kind comment regarding Zoe. And as for the meds... I will get there... I promise. :goodvibes

Hi Ann :wave: joining in.

Love your title and your list of explanation...

What a LONG travel day you had...

Your daughter is beautiful. I hope her upcoming procedure goes well and she is able to have her party!

:wave: I am glad you jumped over here from yours! Thank you for the nice comment regarding my dd. :goodvibes

MaryAz

01-01-2012, 09:09 PM

Hi Ann
Was a lurker on ur PTR but am all set to xomment on the TR!! Glad your flights were smooth. Sorry about te meds :( Glad you got to meet up with friends!!

annmarieda

01-01-2012, 10:46 PM

Hi Ann
Was a lurker on ur PTR but am all set to xomment on the TR!! Glad your flights were smooth. Sorry about te meds :( Glad you got to meet up with friends!!

:wave: I am so glad you are here and while lurking is fine... commenting is so much more fun. :goodvibes And... it will help pass the time until your adventure with Kathy. :)

tinacaplan

01-01-2012, 10:49 PM

Happy New Year! Not sure how I missed this for so long. But I'm here now!

Isn't it amazing how you always get a little more energy once you're off the plane at MCO?

Monknmom

01-02-2012, 10:57 AM

I think maybe its the unbiasedness we all have toward each others lives. We don't actually know any of the people being complained about or whatnot, so we can all honestly be unbiased.

Makes sense! :goodvibes

DisneyKira

01-02-2012, 12:26 PM

I love that picture of Zoe with Goofy! i think it is so cute that she tried to pose like him :goodvibes

Why did you get a Mears shuttle? That is no fun :sad2:

KatMark

01-02-2012, 02:42 PM

I am back and all caught up. Great introductions. I'm so glad that Betsy and her friend waited for you and Zoe to arrive. The photo of Zoe in front of Goofy is great, and I love the one of her in the big chair by the Christmas tree.

I promise to keep up now.

annmarieda

01-03-2012, 03:21 PM

Happy New Year! Not sure how I missed this for so long. But I'm here now!

Isn't it amazing how you always get a little more energy once you're off the plane at MCO?

Silly girl, you didn't miss this. You already made an appearance here. ;)

I love that picture of Zoe with Goofy! i think it is so cute that she tried to pose like him :goodvibes

Why did you get a Mears shuttle? That is no fun :sad2:

Not sure why we got a Mears shuttle instead of an actual DME bus.. but it wasn't the end of the world.

I am back and all caught up. Great introductions. I'm so glad that Betsy and her friend waited for you and Zoe to arrive. The photo of Zoe in front of Goofy is great, and I love the one of her in the big chair by the Christmas tree.

I promise to keep up now.

You were not all that far behind. Just one day done. I hope to get another day started now that I have some more pics that I can work with. (my computer ran out of memory space so I couldn't export any more photos to a file that could be uploaded)

annmarieda

01-03-2012, 05:23 PM

To Sleep or to Play? Our first day in DTD

The answer to that question was answered for me quite early considering I finally got to go to sleep (and not just doze) at 5:30am. At about 8:30, I was woke by a knock on the door. Not wanting anyone else to be woke, I sprung up out of bed. Now this is something I would not have considered in staying at Pop (or any other of the non deluxe resorts) When you open the door it is open to the outside where the sun is. If the room is situated just right, the sun shines RIGHT, DIRECTLY onto the faces of anyone who may be sleeping. :scared: So my good intentions were for not. Steve was woke by the bright light and became angry at me over it.

So what was the knock on the door for? Guesses? Did you guess it was our DME papers being delivered? :rolleyes: I had to just laugh about it since we were not using DME just then. I guess since we used it on the way in and we were checking out the next morning they needed us to schedule our DME pick up time.

Between the light and Steve’s grumblings, it was not long before Zoe was also up. Now with two of us up, we figured we should let the ones needing more sleep have it and go to breakfast. We got ready for the day and went to Everything Pop. (which btw, if I haven’t said it somewhere before is an awesome food court) Zoe got the kids mickey waffles plate with bacon. I got a chocolate croissant. At this time I also got my mug for the trip and filled it with coffee.

After breakfast we went back to the room. I had a bit of time to get reorganized. I am not sure why my packing job was so atrocious, but it was. I had promised the guys that we would not “unpack” while at Pop since I was making us practically move in to WL for 11 nights. So it was important to get the suitcases in an easy to manage state.

At about 11:15am I decided I should let Steve and Alex know the time. Steve did not want to get up. He kept telling me that I should just wake him when I leave for the day. I finally was able to get him to wake up enough to make him understand that while we had separate plans, his ADR at Ragland Road was coming up and if I left without him he would be missing his lunch time.

So the guys managed to get up and start getting ready. About noon, I realized that I could now call to Seattle to tell the doctors what had happened to Zoe’s medication. Since it was Saturday, I had to page who ever happened to be on call. Once that doctor called me back we established that she would call in a new prescription to a pharmacy that delivers to the Disney resorts. I then called that pharmacy myself to see what I needed to do regarding insurance and what not. Well, they do not take any insurance. Ok, so what would be the total oop expense for the medication? Well, lets just say that would have taken about a third of my spending money for the entire trip. I quickly called the doctor in Seattle back to discuss other options. She agreed to go with a generic of another drug (one that didn’t need to be refrigerated) that the bacteria was susceptible to.

By the time everything was squared away between myself and the Seattle doctor, the guys were ready. We took a bus to DTD. We stayed with they guys a bit as we walked to Ragland Road. This was Steve’s first time in DTD so the leisurely stroll was nice. We made sure to take one photo before we split up.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0247.jpg

Then Zoe and I were off for our own adventure.

Next Chapter: Afternoon Tea at the Grand Floridian

annmarieda

01-03-2012, 05:47 PM

I know we have all been busy because of the holidays. I am not sure though, what I have shared and what I haven't so I thought I would take a moment to go ahead and update. I apologize for any "old" information.

Shortly after coming home from the trip (like on 12/24) we had to return to the hospital with Zoe. The foley she had placed for the trip had gone bad and needed to be removed and I was unable to do so. I now suspect that she had some amount of adhesion growing into it. In any case, the foley was removed and a new one placed.

Within a day or so she got very sick. I have never seen her this sick. She had developed a kidney infection. On top of that, something didn't seem right about how the new foley was draining or how much pain it seemed to be causing her.

About a week ago, things looked fairly bleak and the attending doctor wanted to admit her. I decided not to since the goal was only to get her to keep her meds down and to hydrate her. (both I felt given some perseverance I could do)

Things were not looking better regarding how she was holding things down and in her pain level. Sunday I decided I had enough and pulled the foley myself. Steve and I had been nervous to do so since the doc wanted it left in. Reason why he wanted it in? If we were not able to access her bladder after the removal. Also, from our perspective the screaming she did when at the point of needing to be drained was enough to make us hesitant. We did not want to be unable to drain her and be stuck on the road with her for an hour+ while she screamed in agony. However, the screaming was becoming more frequent and I just went for it and pulled it.

This time it came out very nicely and easily. She almost immediately felt some relief from pain. Now we just had to battle the issue regarding her medication and now cathing. Sunday night she screamed and cried for 3 hours before we finally got her meds in her. You see, normally a child of 6 would be given a suspension liquid. However since it has been the holidays and weekends there have not been the normal staff around to handle getting authorizations for this medication. So Zoe has had to deal with taking a pill. Which, yes we break up now and yes we did try and crush then add to something (and that seriously didn't work) Cipro is a very very bad tasting medication and is hard on the GI tract. So Zoe not only doesn't want to take it because it might leave a taste in her mouth, but she also hates it because once it hits her stomach it almost immediately wants to come back up.

After such a rough night, I was not sure how yesterday would go. Steve had the day off and I did not. Steve and I are a bit at each other's throats lately. I think all the stress of Zoe's health is taking it's tole on us. I worried all day while I was at work yesterday not knowing how it was going. (but felt I couldn't call Steve to find out.. turns out I totally could have since he wasn't mad at me all day. Course, he never texted or called me to let me know either..so :confused: how was I suppose to know he wasn't)

In the end, she had a good day (even though Steve forgot to cath her all day :headache:) So I felt she could go to school today since I would work in town and could leave to go cath her. (I can't have her or the school nurse do it since I am not sure which of them caused the false channel that caused the abscess early in December)

So Zoe seems to be doing a bit better each day. I am so glad I pulled the foley since I think it was not placed correctly (did I mention the resident had to try a couple times to get one in? The first was messed up and so she had to do it over.) Next week she goes in for surgery. I hope and pray she is only there for a few nights. But if I learned anything last summer is it that once they are in the hospital...the don't come home as fast as you would like and the care team definitely does not give you "worse case" but rather the best case. Still... I am hopeful for a "best case" because I dont want to spend a lot of time up there.:goodvibes

Stringbean&Wingnut

01-03-2012, 07:19 PM

lovethattink

01-03-2012, 07:49 PM

Oh Ann, I'm so glad you all were able to get in that Disney magic before things got worse with Zoe's health. I'm so sorry you are all going through this. I hope surgery goes well and she heals quickly!

swwake

01-03-2012, 08:20 PM

That dress/outfit Zoe is wearing is adorable. She really is a precious little girl and it saddens me that she has to go through all of these health issues. But wow, she must be a trooper!

I'm glad you pulled the Foley. Mom knows best! I'll be keeping y'all in my thoughts for Zoe's surgery next week. I hope they can eventually get this all sorted out so she can go on living like a normal little princess.

veggiemama

01-03-2012, 08:43 PM

I can't believe how tall Alex is! Has he been that tall for a while already and I'm just noticing now?? :rotfl:

So glad you were able to help Zoe feel a bit better. It is very stressful when a family member has health issues. I'll be praying for Zoe, you and doctors next week that her surgery will go well and that things can get better and better for Zoe!

tinacaplan

01-03-2012, 08:52 PM

First of all, several of these :hug::hug::hug: I had quite an experience with Max recently, prior to his eye surgery. While we're fortunate that its not more serious, there was still that release form to sign. Scary, scary stuff to go through as a parent. And to be trying to do everything on your own...Another :grouphug: for you.

Second, Zoe's dress at DTD is too cute! :goodvibes

And, just curious, you've stayed at deluxes and values..would I hate POP? How were the busses? It would be for a possible short, solo trip this spring.

Prayers that Zoe conditions to improve. :goodvibes

KatMark

01-03-2012, 09:42 PM

First and most important, :hug::hug::hug: to you and Zoe. Things sound a little better and I am happy for that. And, olf course, I will be keeping all in my prayers for the surgery next week.

Love the update. Zoe looks absolutely adorable in her outfit.

Is it my eyes or is Alex taller than your husband? My...he has grown.

oceanwave

01-03-2012, 09:49 PM

So glad to hear that you were able to sort the meds out. Must have been such a relief!!

Love her outfit!! She looks adorable.

So sorry to hear about Zoe. How awful! But what an amazing young lady she is! Will be sending you wishes and prayers for her surgery next week.

Looking forward to hearing about Afternoon tea!

lilpixiebabe101

01-03-2012, 10:19 PM

I'm still trying to figure out how i missed this update.. hmm... anyway I digress.

Sucks about all the med troubles. Glad everything got worked out!

Love Zoe's dress. I think it's ridiculous that we were practically in shorts and tank tops two weeks ago and now Tammie is fighting with hat/glove cold weather.

I'm sorry Zoe was going through so much pain. Poor little princess. :hug: for her and :hug: for you! and alexa sends a :hug: to her friend as well!
Hope this surgery makes life a little easier for the whole family.

annmarieda

01-03-2012, 10:43 PM

I'm glad that Zoe's medication was able to be worked out!

I'm so sorry to hear about everything you guys are going through lately though! I hope that Zoe is feeling better soon, and I will be sending all of you lots of good thoughts!

Thank you so much. We are actually feeling a bunch more optimistic. Zoe and I both got a really good night sleep last night. This helps. School for her went ok and I am hopeful that by the end of the week "normal" shall return.

Oh Ann, I'm so glad you all were able to get in that Disney magic before things got worse with Zoe's health. I'm so sorry you are all going through this. I hope surgery goes well and she heals quickly!

OMG! right? I can't believe that after only being home for about 24 hours we were up to the hospital. I am so very thankful it wasn't just a bit sooner or we would have really been in trouble. I will make sure to let you all know how things go for the surgery. I am sure it will go fine. :goodvibes

She really is a precious little girl and it saddens me that she has to go through all of these health issues. But wow, she must be a trooper!

Thank you so much. She is a trooper. Much more than I am for sure. She is so strong.

That dress/outfit Zoe is wearing is adorable.

Thank you, I thought it was pretty cute... you should have seen her today though. Girl loves herself some tutus and had a set of new twinkle toes, black leggings and a very full sparkly pink tutu she wore to school

I'm glad you pulled the Foley. Mom knows best! I'll be keeping y'all in my thoughts for Zoe's surgery next week. I hope they can eventually get this all sorted out so she can go on living like a normal little princess.

:goodvibes Strange as it is.. Moms do know.. but sometimes we really do second guess ourselves. Like last week I had to choose not to admit her to the hospital. I think it was a good choice. I choose to not go ahead and pull the foley as early as I thought it should have been pulled and that was a bad choice.

I can't believe how tall Alex is! Has he been that tall for a while already and I'm just noticing now?? :rotfl:

Nope, in the last few months he has shot up...and gained weight. He officially is the largest guy in the house.

So glad you were able to help Zoe feel a bit better. It is very stressful when a family member has health issues. I'll be praying for Zoe, you and doctors next week that her surgery will go well and that things can get better and better for Zoe!

It can be very stressful for sure! And thank you for the prayers. It definitely helps!:goodvibes

First of all, several of these :hug::hug::hug: I had quite an experience with Max recently, prior to his eye surgery. While we're fortunate that its not more serious, there was still that release form to sign. Scary, scary stuff to go through as a parent. And to be trying to do everything on your own...Another :grouphug: for you.

Thanks so much. It is hard when our wee ones (no matter what the age) are ill or needing medical attention. I just sucks to see them go through it.

Second, Zoe's dress at DTD is too cute! :goodvibes

Thanks. Just wait till you see some of her princess outfits.

And, just curious, you've stayed at deluxes and values..would I hate POP? How were the busses? It would be for a possible short, solo trip this spring.

Prayers that Zoe conditions to improve. :goodvibes

Yes, I have stayed at everything from values to deluxes. The buses at Pop frustrated me on our 9/2010 trip. But.. I think the buses tend to frustrate me no matter where... you just have to be mindful of the time of year you are going. We had absolutely no trouble with the buses at Pop this last time...but we were only traveling to DTD. For a solo trip I think Pop would be perfect. In fact, I like Pop well enough for a family trip. (even Steve who definitely fell in love with WL and I know will likely never want to stay at any other disney resort really liked Pop) One thing I did really like about Pop or POR over WL... they seem to be a bit more centrally located. True, it didn't take long to get from WL to MK... but anywhere else was horrid.

First and most important, :hug::hug::hug: to you and Zoe. Things sound a little better and I am happy for that. And, olf course, I will be keeping all in my prayers for the surgery next week.

Love the update. Zoe looks absolutely adorable in her outfit.

Is it my eyes or is Alex taller than your husband? My...he has grown.

Thank you so much for the prayers. I know you have a bit of a week ahead of you too so thank you. :hug:

I thought Zoe was pretty cute in that pic...but I am of course biased.

As for Alex..yep...he is taller.. He just shot up recently and is now even taller than Zach. Then there is short little me in my 5'4" (at best) height I think my boys will be a good foot taller than me. Steve is 6'.. Zach is 6' 2" and I have not brought myself to actually measure my sweet baby boy..but as I said he is taller than Zach. :rolleyes:
So glad to hear that you were able to sort the meds out. Must have been such a relief!!

Love her outfit!! She looks adorable.

So sorry to hear about Zoe. How awful! But what an amazing young lady she is! Will be sending you wishes and prayers for her surgery next week.

Looking forward to hearing about Afternoon tea!

Sorting the meds out was such a relief. However, I am sure there was disney magic involved... but I will get to that.

Thank you for the kind words regarding Zoe. She is an amazing young lady and I adore her. I appreciate the prayers.

And as for tea... that is coming up soon..so stay tuned. :goodvibes

annmarieda

01-03-2012, 11:02 PM

dizneeat

01-04-2012, 12:48 AM

annmarieda

01-04-2012, 01:05 AM

Afternoon Tea at the Grand Floridian

After leaving the guys in DTD, Zoe and I caught a bus to the Grand Floridian. It was on this bus that I a couple calls regarding the medication situation. First, the doctor called to confirm she had indeed found a far less expensive drug and called the prescription in to the pharmacy. The second was from the pharmacy itself needing confirmation of what resort we were staying at. Here is where I think a bit of Disney magic happens. The delivery charge was only a mere $7. Amazing to me. Funny enough, the script cost oop including the delivery for less than our copay for prescriptions is. I will have to keep that in mind. As a side note, I do run my own prescription as a “cash” price rather than use my insurance since it costs less. Looks like I may have to consider this for the future when it comes to medications for Zoe.

I had feared that I would have a hard time finding the Garden View Tea Room. I had never been to GF and it seemed large and honestly a bit daunting. I was happy that it was not at all a problem to find as it was right off the main lobby. In fact, as we waited for our names to be called, I took photos of the main tree.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0248.jpg

While waiting it was unfortunate, but Zoe had another cap complication. She plopped down on a chair and some how the pressure of the jump some how shot the cap on the end of her foley right off. Of course this caused a mess and a very tearful Zoe had to change out of her pretty little tutu. :sad2: At this point in the trip, I was very frustrated by this happening. It seemed like she was going through so many outfits just because of the darn tube coming uncapped. I wanted to have the foley removed at that point however, now was not the time since we had a reservation to keep.;)

Just as we finished our clean up and arrived back in the lobby, we were called. We were seated near a window in the corner of the room. I am not sure that this was the best seat in the room, but it was nice to be able to watch people go by outside. From this seat we saw several wedding parties. Some of the dresses were amazing!

My stomach was really really bothering me, so as I glanced at the menu I realized that I would have to forgo the package that involved champagne. For Zoe there was only one choice. She had the finger sandwiches and “dark tea”. This consisted of chocolate milk along with ham and cheese, tuna salad and peanut butter and jelly finger sandwiches as a “first course”.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0250.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0251.jpg

For me, I decided on a similar package. Only my finger sandwiches were much more “grown up”. I had a cucumber and water crest one which was probably my favorite. The egg salad one was also nice, if only a tad too garlicky. The shrimp salad one was tasty but was starting to be a tad on the unusual side. Next was one I couldn’t finish. It was grilled pear and gorgonzola. A curried chicken was even less edible. I am not a big fan of caramelized onions, but this too was set into a tart and served. Finally a bacon wrapped pate was almost scary, even if I did make several attempts to eat it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0252.jpg

What I could not finish no matter how hard I tried.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0254.jpg

I then received a next course. A scone and jam tart along with deavenshire cream. That was heavenly. I could have lived all week on the scone. It was however, not like the scones we have here. (which are far denser and drier). I think this was so good I was unable to get any pictures of it as I scarfed it down. :rotfl:

Finally, our last course came. We each got to pick two desserts from the tray. Zoe picked a fruit tart, which she was ever so proud of http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0258.jpg

and a chocolate covered strawberry. The strawberry was so very large, I joked that it was as big as her head. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0257.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0255.jpg

I picked a strawberry mouse. This was to die for! One of my favorite desserts on the trip! It had a sponge cake base that was layered with some jam. My second choice was pretty; a cranberry cream filled swan. It was also very yummy.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0256.jpg

As we finished up, the guys arrived at the GF. Since their lunch had ended shortly after our tea began, they decided to meet us at the resort so we all view the decorations.

The gingerbread house was quite impressive. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0259.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0260.jpg

I know this looks odd.. it is edited. It makes me laugh to try and add some holiday cheer.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0261-1.jpg

And this would be why I thought the added "cheer" was funny
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0263.jpg
Gotta love the teens! I mean at one point even Alex would pose for me nicely like this
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0262.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0264.jpg

The resort as a whole was beautifully decorated, but still felt a tad stuffy. I was happy to hear Steve say he would not want to stay there.

After we meandered a bit we caught the monorail back to MK so that we could catch a bus to Pop.

Next chapter: Our last night at Pop Century

annmarieda

01-04-2012, 01:12 AM

First off, I was heartbroken at all of Zoe's health issues. Maybe since we don't have kids it might even sound more scary to us ....... but this IS scary, poor little one :hug: and I definitely :worship: you for all YOU do!

Since I knew a bit about the medications I was not so shocked when I read it (not so shocked means I already knew about it ;)) but buy did you have to get through a lot of trouble to replace them.

I never thought about the sun being an issue at Pop, but you are right, some rooms really let the sun in!

Love your DTD day so far!

Lots of :wizard: pixie dust and :hug: :hug: :hug: for the upcoming surgery!

Karin, It is kinda scary to me too. I am at a point where I hate to see her go through all this. I can count how many times I have gone under general anesthesia in my life time. I can't count how many Zoe has. I find that troubling.:sad2:

I think the medication sounded like more of a hassle than it was. In fact, the pharmacy and Pop made it almost painless. I just saw the cost show up on my room charges.

As for DTD so far... well, I should have done better with the title. The guys had the afternoon there, but Zoe and I only briefly went there. Our afternoon was spend at the GF having tea. :goodvibes

dizneeat

01-04-2012, 04:27 AM

Stringbean&Wingnut

01-04-2012, 05:48 AM

Your afternoon tea looks so nice! (Although, I agree, that pate does look a bit scary!) But cream and scones and fruit and puff pastry??? Yum! :thumbsup2

Leger13

01-04-2012, 07:35 AM

OMG I'm SIX pages late to this!?!? :crazy2: Not cool. Not cool at all

oceanwave

01-04-2012, 08:26 AM

Afternoon tea looks delicious! Might need to add it to my list of Must Do's for our next trip. Zoe looks like she had a mighty good time with that Strawberry :)

How interesting with the cost of the meds. Makes ya wonder how many times a doctor prescribes a medication if there is a cheaper option available. Though I must say the USA/Canada/United Kingdom medical system confuses me!

lovethattink

01-04-2012, 09:17 AM

Afternoon Tea looks great! Well, except for the pate, that looked a bit scary.

lilpixiebabe101

01-04-2012, 02:39 PM

Hmm I would love to do that tea with Alexa when she gets a little older!!!

So I'm being bad and thinking of how to get DF to Disney.... I'm throwing around the idea of getting a AP for our ladies trip in 2013.. and then booking a trip for Buddy, Alexa, and I in August 14 before she starts Kindergarten.... it would save money in the long run.. and make him go to Disney.

swwake

01-04-2012, 02:47 PM

That sounds like a great afternoon tea at the GF. We saw the gingerbread house and tree also and loved them. I feel like you do about the GF. Not sure I'd want to stay there.

Sorry for the problems with the Foley cap. What a pain! But glad you got it under control.

That Alex is cracking me up with his faces. I like the hat you added.

MaryAz

01-04-2012, 02:58 PM

Glad you got the med situation worked out. Tea at the GF looks fun. My girls both have that Mickey shirt :) So sorry to hear of Zoe's medical issues. I will be praying for her surgery next week.

Monknmom

01-04-2012, 04:08 PM

I will have to keep that in mind for if we ever stay at pop (about the doors)--- I think that All Stars came in, but we were right in front of some bushes and trees so sun didn't make a difference! You know reading this I recall telling you that if you need the car to go ANYWHERE I said we have NO PROBLEM taking you! Especially to pick up a medicine for Zoe! She is so cute! And her little skirt!
I am so sorry that she's going through trouble again! Is there a reason why the procedure they did for her to make it better didn't make it better? Did they do something wrong during it? I hope not, but I was just curious... We will keep you guys in our prayers! I hope that everything goes as planned this time and they are a litte more forthcoming! I can't imagine how it feels being told the best case and then having the wrse case happen like last time!
The tree at the GF was so pretty! Funny thing is that you were there on the 10th and we stopped in on the 11th I will show pictures! Funny that I took my son's pictures in some of the same places! I'm glad that you had a very nice tea with Zoe! I like the "dark tea choice" with chocolate milk! Some of the stuff looked very good! And that strawberry looks big! I love teas I will have to make my way there one day, maybe I should have a little girl to do these things with. I agree though not only did it feel stuffy, but I felt that I was out of place there! I don't know how to describe that! We didn't spend too much time there for that reason!

Leger13

01-04-2012, 06:27 PM

Ok I'm all caught up! Love the picture with the edited hat on Alex. Those deserts at the tea look divine!! That strawberry is as big as Zoe's head! Wow! I wish I had a little girl to do that stuff with! Great start girl! Can't wait to read more.

Oh and sorry to hear about the med mishap! Glad you got it all straightened out.

tinacaplan

01-04-2012, 07:13 PM

The afternoon tea looks lovely. :thumbsup2 And how adorable is Zoe? Seriously? I just love her expressive, little face. I have to say, though, the Gorgonzola and pear, I would have been all over that. :rotfl:

I wouldn't stay at the Grand Floridian, either. While I admit the lobby is impressive, its just not...I suppose stuffy is right word. :lmao:

KatMark

01-04-2012, 07:50 PM

disneydreamingdebby

01-04-2012, 08:02 PM

Your update makes me curious about the tea. I've never really considered doing this...My little princesses are really "tweens" at this point, and it probably wouldn't appeal to them. They might attend with me in a couple of years, though...:rotfl:

Poor Zoe, but she looks like she had a great time anyway!

annmarieda

01-04-2012, 08:16 PM

And another update! You are an update machine!!!!!!!

Zoe looks so cute and proud at the tea, she is just so cute!

Tea itself looks pretty good, I have had 4 reservations at the GV tea room and we cancelled them all. :rotfl2:
Went to do tea on the DREAM and while it was nice we will not be rushing back - and I brought my own tea - their selection is not what I like to enjoy!

I had to :lmao: when I saw Alex looking all bored in some of your photos - just like my pupils act when I tell them to line up for a photo! :rotfl2: Must be an age thing!

I think you are right, kids that age.:confused:

too funny you have canceled all your reservations to GV tea room. You should try it some time...

Zoe really loved doing the tea. I allowed her to add my sugar for me. It was great. (even if the food was not my absolute cup of tea ;))

And as for updating... I have a goal. I want to get one day done a week. That gives me a couple days yet to finish up with 12/10.

Your afternoon tea looks so nice! (Although, I agree, that pate does look a bit scary!) But cream and scones and fruit and puff pastry??? Yum! :thumbsup2

I think if I ever did it again, I would want the champagne with it..maybe. But the scone was definitely yummy!

OMG I'm SIX pages late to this!?!? :crazy2: Not cool. Not cool at all

:guilty: I am sorry. But you are here now!! :woohoo:

Afternoon tea looks delicious! Might need to add it to my list of Must Do's for our next trip. Zoe looks like she had a mighty good time with that Strawberry :)

How interesting with the cost of the meds. Makes ya wonder how many times a doctor prescribes a medication if there is a cheaper option available. Though I must say the USA/Canada/United Kingdom medical system confuses me!

:rotfl: Yep, she did. Little bit of a mess when she was all done..but not too bad.

I think the medical system confuses everyone...including the medical providers. :rotfl:

Afternoon Tea looks great! Well, except for the pate, that looked a bit scary.

It was... I like bacon crisp and it seemed raw... and the green things... I believe they were pistachios.

Hmm I would love to do that tea with Alexa when she gets a little older!!!

So I'm being bad and thinking of how to get DF to Disney.... I'm throwing around the idea of getting a AP for our ladies trip in 2013.. and then booking a trip for Buddy, Alexa, and I in August 14 before she starts Kindergarten.... it would save money in the long run.. and make him go to Disney.

You should totally do the tea with Alexa! Very fun. We have done mother daughter teas in the past, but none have been this fun!

As for getting Buddy to go with you... you should!!! I hope that he gets converted to a fan!
That sounds like a great afternoon tea at the GF. We saw the gingerbread house and tree also and loved them. I feel like you do about the GF. Not sure I'd want to stay there.

Sorry for the problems with the Foley cap. What a pain! But glad you got it under control.

That Alex is cracking me up with his faces. I like the hat you added.

It was a nice time with just Zoe and I.

As for Alex... he is totally a face maker!!! I wonder just how many we caught on film.

Glad you got the med situation worked out. Tea at the GF looks fun. My girls both have that Mickey shirt :) So sorry to hear of Zoe's medical issues. I will be praying for her surgery next week.
Isn't that a fun shirt?! I love how colorful it is...and with the Mickey and Minnies in it. I love it!

Thank you for the prayers. I know she could use them. :goodvibes
I will have to keep that in mind for if we ever stay at pop (about the doors)--- I think that All Stars came in, but we were right in front of some bushes and trees so sun didn't make a difference! You know reading this I recall telling you that if you need the car to go ANYWHERE I said we have NO PROBLEM taking you! Especially to pick up a medicine for Zoe! She is so cute! And her little skirt!
I am so sorry that she's going through trouble again! Is there a reason why the procedure they did for her to make it better didn't make it better? Did they do something wrong during it? I hope not, but I was just curious... We will keep you guys in our prayers! I hope that everything goes as planned this time and they are a litter more forthcoming! I can't imagine how it feels being told the best case and then having the worse case happen like last time!
The tree at the GF was so pretty! Funny thing is that you were there on the 10th and we stopped in on the 11th I will show pictures! Funny that I took my son's pictures in some of the same places! I'm glad that you had a very nice tea with Zoe! I like the "dark tea choice" with chocolate milk! Some of the stuff looked very good! And that strawberry looks big! I love teas I will have to make my way there one day, maybe I should have a little girl to do these things with. I agree though not only did it feel stuffy, but I felt that I was out of place there! I don't know how to describe that! We didn't spend too much time there for that reason!

I know you said you would drive us if we needed... but it worked out fine. $7 for delivery didn't sound too bad.

As for Zoe's surgery and how it "didn't work" well... it did... it just is that a stricture has formed. Her little body has been trying to heal that channel closed. They tried to dilate it in October (ie. stretch out that stricture) but it just started closing up again. I just hope that it goes well this time.

We felt a bit out of place at GF too. It was pretty though so well worth seeing.

And having a little girl to go to the tea with... I am sure Damien would probably prefer that to going. ;)

Ok I'm all caught up! Love the picture with the edited hat on Alex. Those deserts at the tea look divine!! That strawberry is as big as Zoe's head! Wow! I wish I had a little girl to do that stuff with! Great start girl! Can't wait to read more.

Oh and sorry to hear about the med mishap! Glad you got it all straightened out.

The desserts were probably the best thing about the tea. That and the pretty plates....very girly. :goodvibes
The afternoon tea looks lovely. :thumbsup2 And how adorable is Zoe? Seriously? I just love her expressive, little face. I have to say, though, the Gorgonzola and pear, I would have been all over that. :rotfl:

I wouldn't stay at the Grand Floridian, either. While I admit the lobby is impressive, its just not...I suppose stuffy is right word. :lmao:

:rotfl: Gorgonzola and pear... not sure.. but if you would like it... I would gladly give you mine.

veggiemama

01-04-2012, 08:20 PM

annmarieda

01-04-2012, 08:31 PM

What a great update, Ann.

Zoe looks like you had so much fun at the Tea. It's not something I've ever done (no daughters and Mark refuses to even walk in the GF). Those desserts look so cute.

The picture of Alex with the frown on his face cracks me up. So typical of a boy that age. ;)

It was fun. Maybe you, Mary and the girls could make it to tea? It was definitely something i am glad we did.

I honestly thought that Alex would act like that more than he did. However, this is more his natural state.

Your update makes me curious about the tea. I've never really considered doing this...My little princesses are really "tweens" at this point, and it probably wouldn't appeal to them. They might attend with me in a couple of years, though...:rotfl:

Poor Zoe, but she looks like she had a great time anyway!

Yeah, I am not sure.... I think you may be right. Little girls like it...and then older girls (like my dd) do. Teens though are too cool. ;) And tweens want to be teens so... :confused: Then again, it might appeal to the princess that is left in them right now. It is not uncommon for us to attend a mother daughter tea around mothers day...so my girls are kinda familiar with dinning on and drinking from special china. And..even though Kira has never been terribly "girly" she seems to like how girly it is.

annmarieda

01-04-2012, 08:40 PM

Wow! I never even knew about the tea at GF! It looks wonderful.... though a few 'scary' sandwiches! :lmao: Love the desserts though... The swan looked almost too pretty to eat!

I'm going to have to keep this tea in mind for my next trip... ssshhhh! Don't tell... another trip is in the works! :lovestruc:rotfl2:

It is definitely worth doing...and I think will be a "tradition" for me from here on out...even if some of the sandwiches were scary. There was a couple that sat next to us and I overheard their server tell them she would bring them only the cucumber ones. And..the swan was definitely too pretty. It was tasty...but not my favorite.

And as for another trip??!!! :woohoo: I hear ya on the shhhh.. but don't think you can go without letting us all know! ;)

annmarieda

01-04-2012, 09:02 PM

In case any of you are more curious about the tea room, someone just posted wonderful pictures on the food pictures thread. here (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43631821&postcount=2190) This person took way better pictures and had some items I didn't have. Makes me realize I will be making it a tradition. :goodvibes

lilpixiebabe101

01-04-2012, 09:43 PM

I love the pictures in the link. I actually think if we do go in 2014 that will invite my Grandma (loves any and every kind of travel and went on 2 trips with us when I was young, hasnt been in about 15 years though). She wants to go on the 2013 ladies trip if we have extra spots to fill :lmao: .

annmarieda

01-04-2012, 09:53 PM

ladytink75

01-05-2012, 08:04 AM

Monknmom

01-05-2012, 09:16 AM

I know you said you would drive us if we needed... but it worked out fine. $7 for delivery didn't sound too bad.

As for Zoe's surgery and how it "didn't work" well... it did... it just is that a stricture has formed. Her little body has been trying to heal that channel closed. They tried to dilate it in October (ie. stretch out that stricture) but it just started closing up again. I just hope that it goes well this time.

We felt a bit out of place at GF too. It was pretty though so well worth seeing.

And having a little girl to go to the tea with... I am sure Damien would probably prefer that to going. ;)
Yeah it sounds okay! I just kept thinking and telling K that you probably didn't want to ask because you thought you might interrupt us, but we wouldn't have looked at it that way!

And I didn't mean any offense with Zoe! I was just curious because I feel really bad that she's so little and has to go through so much! It's not right, but she's lucky to have a mom to step up to the plate and take as much control and precautions as she can!

And Damien at tea? I'm not sure he would go with that we saw Aurora without a line and he wouldn't go to her because she was only for the girls as well as Marie! :headache: So maybe one day I will be able to!

In case any of you are more curious about the tea room, someone just posted wonderful pictures on the food pictures thread. here (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43631821&postcount=2190) This person took way better pictures and had some items I didn't have. Makes me realize I will be making it a tradition. :goodvibes

I have always wished that I could bake/cook like this! I would love to have people over and put that swan dessert out and see/hear the OOO's and AAAA's!

veggiemama

01-05-2012, 01:46 PM

Thanks for the link! the photos look wonderful.

My mom was here today and I presented my 'secret' plan to her. :goodvibes

She was all for it... she's as nuts about Disney as I am :rotfl:

GF tea will definitely be on our list of things to do :cool1:

annmarieda

01-05-2012, 03:05 PM

I made an ADR for my daughter and myself for the afternoon tea at the GF do you think it would be nice for a 15yr who rants all the time "I HATE BEING A GIRL". She really likes green tea and I want to do something special with her since its her bday celebration trip.

I don't know... she might. While it is very girly, it is also very special/fancy. I think I would say go for it. If she doesn't like it...then yo know you tried something new that you won't do in the future.

Yeah it sounds okay! I just kept thinking and telling K that you probably didn't want to ask because you thought you might interrupt us, but we wouldn't have looked at it that way!

If I really needed it, I would have asked...so thank you. :goodvibes You are too sweet!!!

And I didn't mean any offense with Zoe! I was just curious because I feel really bad that she's so little and has to go through so much! It's not right, but she's lucky to have a mom to step up to the plate and take as much control and precautions as she can!

I didn't take any offense. i thought it was a caring inquisitive question. :goodvibes I honestly feel blessed that you would even ask. We have family members that don't even care to ask details..so thank you. :hug:

And Damien at tea? I'm not sure he would go with that we saw Aurora without a line and he wouldn't go to her because she was only for the girls as well as Marie! :headache: So maybe one day I will be able to!

:rotfl: Yeah, I think very few boys are into it. Even the husbands or boyfriends I saw there with their gals looked a bit horrified to be there.

I have always wished that I could bake/cook like this! I would love to have people over and put that swan dessert out and see/hear the OOO's and AAAA's!

I know... that swan definitely had me ooo and aaa:goodvibes

Thanks for the link! the photos look wonderful.

My mom was here today and I presented my 'secret' plan to her. :goodvibes

She was all for it... she's as nuts about Disney as I am :rotfl:

GF tea will definitely be on our list of things to do :cool1:

:woohoo: I hope you have a nice time. Just maybe remember that the food is pretty...but not necessarily filling or tasty. :rotfl: At least not until you get to the desserts.

lovethattink

01-05-2012, 04:41 PM

Ohhhh! Those pictures in that link!! I'd like to do the tea sometime, but I don't think my boys would be willing and I'm not willing to go solo.

Monknmom

01-05-2012, 05:40 PM

[QUOTE=annmarieda;43640229If I really needed it, I would have asked...so thank you. :goodvibes You are too sweet!!!
I didn't take any offense. i thought it was a caring inquisitive question. :goodvibes I honestly feel blessed that you would even ask. We have family members that don't even care to ask details..so thank you. :hug:
:rotfl: Yeah, I think very few boys are into it. Even the husbands or boyfriends I saw there with their gals looked a bit horrified to be there.
I know... that swan definitely had me ooo and aaa:goodvibes
[/QUOTE]

:goodvibes Anytime!
Yeah I can't imagine how long they have those chefs and bakers training to make everything just right! The other day I pulled up some jobs that Disney has available for K and told him he should apply!!!! LOL he will never though:sad2:

annmarieda

01-05-2012, 07:20 PM

dizneeat

01-06-2012, 12:43 AM

Among all the mail that came while we were gone, was a mailing for DVC. Call..do the phone/internet tour and get a $40 gift card. While it would have been nice to get that for the trip... I am sure there will be other trips (at least I am hoping)

I have done the tour before, but this time I got more questions answered. Honestly, I am having a hard time seeing where it would be a good deal for us. I always go with some discount. (one that I don't have to pay for) The way I look at it, we would be paying about $100 a point to buy in and then about $4.73 a point for dues a year. I would then need to buy food and tickets.

I can see that at some point it will not be bad considering just paying dues + tickets + food.

Anyway... Steve actually before we got back had told me we should look into it. So it was worth looking into...but still thinking it may not be good for us. But...:woohoo: for getting a gift card!

Congrats on the gift card!!!!!!!!
I was always the one who said - it's not for us, especially at our age - I cannot see myself at age 80 going to WDW and riding EE! :rotfl2:
BUT - we made an inheritage (and my cousin's little boy will inherit) and I am paying it off with that (I can only pay as much as is the max on one CC).
and from there on I am writing down what those vacations would cost me - even with a discount and we will break even in just a few years time.
I think it also depends on HOW you vacation. We love those 1 bedroom units and haven't stayed in a value for years (even though I loved them).

annmarieda

01-06-2012, 01:29 AM

Congrats on the gift card!!!!!!!!
I was always the one who said - it's not for us, especially at our age - I cannot see myself at age 80 going to WDW and riding EE! :rotfl2:
BUT - we made an inheritage (and my cousin's little boy will inherit) and I am paying it off with that (I can only pay as much as is the max on one CC).
and from there on I am writing down what those vacations would cost me - even with a discount and we will break even in just a few years time.
I think it also depends on HOW you vacation. We love those 1 bedroom units and haven't stayed in a value for years (even though I loved them).

Ya know for the last few years, I have been saying "ok, next trip no disney" Now with the thought that we could use the points elsewhere it might actually not be a bad idea. Also, I am kinda learning there is NO saying NO to disney.:rotfl2:

Oh...and just to note... I did mention something in error. I do realize that the yearly dues go up and change so that 473 or so would not be that each year as that is just the current price for Saratoga Springs.

I know that the person I spoke with today is sending me a more extensive packet... and that would list perks.... so I will have to weigh it all out. The AP being less for DVC is nice... and from there the use of TIW instead of dp. However, I like having the dp (payin oop for it or getting it free)

As you can see, I am still mulling it over quite a bit. Did I mention I just paid my car off? So there is much more room in the budget for that (since we would definitely have to finance it) Oh.. and then there is the benefit of using the interest on our taxes. :scratchin

dizneeat

01-06-2012, 01:52 AM

Ya know for the last few years, I have been saying "ok, next trip no disney" Now with the thought that we could use the points elsewhere it might actually not be a bad idea. Also, I am kinda learning there is NO saying NO to disney.:rotfl2:

Oh...and just to note... I did mention something in error. I do realize that the yearly dues go up and change so that 473 or so would not be that each year as that is just the current price for Saratoga Springs.

I know that the person I spoke with today is sending me a more extensive packet... and that would list perks.... so I will have to weigh it all out. The AP being less for DVC is nice... and from there the use of TIW instead of dp. However, I like having the dp (payin oop for it or getting it free)

As you can see, I am still mulling it over quite a bit. Did I mention I just paid my car off? So there is much more room in the budget for that (since we would definitely have to finance it) Oh.. and then there is the benefit of using the interest on our taxes. :scratchin

Yes, you can use it outside of Disney as well, but it is quite high on points.
I just paid off our annual dues .... don't want to be in debt with Disney, now that they let me stay at the Poly nearly for free. ;) .... and SSR had the lowest dues of all the resorts (we own SSR too!)
The thing is that
- if you cannot use your points you can always rent them out, which will definitely cover your annual dues and give you something extra
- you can bank your points for the following year and borrow from the next year, so you would have double the points if you only go every other year
- Kira and her new hubby could use your points as well AND just pay you a little for the use
- you can resell to Disney

I do NOT want to sell you DVC, but it does make sense. BLT costs around 1200$ for the two nights we are staying there and we pay only 40 points! (please note that this is one of the most expensive seasons)
A week at OKW in early September (value season) - 1 br - is around 170 points - can't remember properly. so it really works out! (We bought 160 points)
Think about it! :goodvibes

annmarieda

01-06-2012, 02:10 AM

Yes, you can use it outside of Disney as well, but it is quite high on points.
I just paid off our annual dues .... don't want to be in debt with Disney, now that they let me stay at the Poly nearly for free. ;) .... and SSR had the lowest dues of all the resorts (we own SSR too!)
The thing is that
- if you cannot use your points you can always rent them out, which will definitely cover your annual dues and give you something extra
- you can bank your points for the following year and borrow from the next year, so you would have double the points if you only go every other year
- Kira and her new hubby could use your points as well AND just pay you a little for the use
- you can resell to Disney

I do NOT want to sell you DVC, but it does make sense. BLT costs around 1200$ for the two nights we are staying there and we pay only 40 points! (please note that this is one of the most expensive seasons)
A week at OKW in early September (value season) - 1 br - is around 170 points - can't remember properly. so it really works out! (We bought 160 points)
Think about it! :goodvibes

I am definitely giving it some thought. I think my biggest issue is I am comparing apples to oranges. Staying at a value vs. say a studio at the villas.

Did you buy through Disney or a resale? Another thing that is nice about right now... if we bought with Disney we would get 2011 points... could "borrow" against the 2012 points(for some reason they are not actually awarded until december :confused:)and have double the points for a trip or trips in 2012.

Obviously this will take some thought... and I am tired and need to be up in 6 or so hours.

Thank you though, Karin. I really hope you don't mind me picking your brain... I might need to in order to come to a decision.;)

ladytink75

01-06-2012, 11:43 AM

Monknmom

01-06-2012, 12:55 PM

You know while we were there I kept telling myself that I wanted to look into that because it's not just for Disney though, but K kept telling me what your saying- we aren't going every year and when we go next time (yes he did say that and I got him to sign a copy of it) we will wait for a deal like we had this time as well! So I'm not sure... honestly we were shocked whenever we paid for dining because sometimes the bill said it was going to be over $50 and then with the card it was taken care of! So I'm not sure about this... I want to do more research on it too so if you can keep posting about it so I can learn from you and the site that would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

disneydreamingdebby

01-06-2012, 04:19 PM

Ann, we own DVC. We bought both contracts (BCV and SSR) through resale. This was before some of the restrictions with resale. It costs us about 40% less to buy resale.

I am not sure I would recommend it if you have to finance. You are then paying interest too and that has to be factored into the cost. DVC members do not get the same promos applied to DVC stays: They do not get free dining unless they book cash like everyone else.

I think you can research and find out when the break even point is--it is several years. It over those years, your family would stay at a value, the break even point would be even longer.

It sounds great to hear two nights at BCV would have cost $1000, but the reality is, a current discount would have really made the cost $650.

Although it sounds like a great perk to be able to use points elsewhere...I don't think it is cost effective. The points work best at Disney.

I love my DVC, but I think it is a big decision involving a lot of research. I think you may want to talk to someone about resale too. I suggest Jaki and **** at Resales dvc .com - We bought both contracts from them and had a great experience.

If you have specific questions, you can pm me. The DVC forums have helpful folks to learn more information from too.

Debby

annmarieda

01-06-2012, 05:17 PM

Ann I myself am also a DVC owner.. My home resort is VWL. December would of been my first time staying as a member but now that i'm going in March that will be my first time as a member. I don't have that many points right now I only have a contract for 78 points that's just enough for a week's worth if i'm lucky. We are thinking about adding on later this year once my DH get's established with his job and I get caught up on our bills that have been suffering since he's been without a job. I bought through Disney and it was not that hard of a process. My dues actually went down this year and I have to say I was amazed that it did. My DH agreed to let me buy into DVC because we can stay at other places and not just only travel to DW or DL. If you do buy in get what feels right for your family and what you see your family will be using it for in the future. When I add on I will be adding on 160pts hopefully they will let me add on that much at VWL. Think long and hard we wanted to buy in back in 09' but chose to wait.

I will definitely think long and hard. I think it would depend on how things go for dh at work and if we get anything back on our taxes this year. Point wise, I think I would need about 160. Depending on where we stay... that seems enough for a good week somewhere and then maybe a second somewhere else for a shorter trip. Actually, looking at the point charts... and assuming we could use 320 in 2012. (the 160 from 2011 and then the 160 from 2012) I figured a week a with standard view at Aulani, a week in a value room at AK which would then leave 118 to add to 2013. We will see though... it may still just be less to find a condo in Hawaii and get a good discount (like fd) for a week in WDW.

You know while we were there I kept telling myself that I wanted to look into that because it's not just for Disney though, but K kept telling me what your saying- we aren't going every year and when we go next time (yes he did say that and I got him to sign a copy of it) we will wait for a deal like we had this time as well! So I'm not sure... honestly we were shocked whenever we paid for dining because sometimes the bill said it was going to be over $50 and then with the card it was taken care of! So I'm not sure about this... I want to do more research on it too so if you can keep posting about it so I can learn from you and the site that would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

On one of our very very first Disney trips, I wanted to take look. I really really should have then. Alex was only 5 then... imagine. I still am not sure it is the best choice for us. I know how much yearly we spend on our trips... but that total includes airfare and park tickets... But if we owned DVC outright... and all we had to pay were the dues :confused: dues on 160 at SSR is just under 800 now. If I say that I can make the 160 work for 2 weeks a year..that is 14 days. The $800 divided by 14 is only like $57 a night. even with a good room discount you can't really stay for that little. I should compare my most recent stay. I would have been short by 7 points to stay at the VWL. (but we will just play like I would have had enough) I would have had to pay for dinning plan instead of the room. (I got fd, but paid rack for the room) I know it isn't exact... but $50/night/person is 2200. Add in the dues... comes to 3k. Add then in the park tickets and it is about 4200 total. That would have been a savings of about 1100. At that rate, it would take us about 14 trips (each two weeks) to break even. Hmm :scratchin Is that making sense to you? I think/wonder when DVC advertises that you break even in x amount of trips (not the 28 weeks that I am seeing) I wonder if they are comparing rack rate with no other discounts. In that case, the room was 3300..assuming dues at 800 well then there is a huge savings. That is like 2500 and that would only be 6 trips (or 12 weeks) Hmmm

Ann, we own DVC. We bought both contracts (BCV and SSR) through resale. This was before some of the restrictions with resale. It costs us about 40% less to buy resale.

I am not sure I would recommend it if you have to finance. You are then paying interest too and that has to be factored into the cost. DVC members do not get the same promos applied to DVC stays: They do not get free dining unless they book cash like everyone else.

I think you can research and find out when the break even point is--it is several years. It over those years, your family would stay at a value, the break even point would be even longer.

It sounds great to hear two nights at BCV would have cost $1000, but the reality is, a current discount would have really made the cost $650.

Although it sounds like a great perk to be able to use points elsewhere...I don't think it is cost effective. The points work best at Disney.

I love my DVC, but I think it is a big decision involving a lot of research. I think you may want to talk to someone about resale too. I suggest Jaki and **** at Resales dvc .com - We bought both contracts from them and had a great experience.

If you have specific questions, you can pm me. The DVC forums have helpful folks to learn more information from too.

Debby

I appreciate your feedback. The more I think about it, the more I wonder if it is the best thing for us. Course, if discounts dry up and we are all forced to pay rack rate and full price for dinning and such... :rolleyes: Maybe I should look at resale a bit more closely before I completely close the door on this thought...

annmarieda

01-06-2012, 05:46 PM

Our last night at Pop Century

After leaving the Grand Floridian, it wasn’t very long before we were back at Pop. We decided to go through the Classic Hall in order to stop and pick up Zoe’s medicine. Sadly, before we could even get back to the room we had another mess due to a cap malfunction.:headache: This made it so we had to hurry to our room. The stress of the mess behind us, we opened the door to find a very cute new friend.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0265.jpg

Once we were back in the room, Steve very quickly fell asleep. It was only 4:15pm! :eek: This meant he was up an entire 5 hours on this day. I didn’t get too worked up over it though. I figured he just needed to get caught up on all the lack of sleep he had had over the last day or so.

Wanting to let him sleep, I took the kids for a swim. Well, Alex swam. Zoe was still not allowed to go into the pool since she had an open wound still. (which at this point I could tell would not need to be repacked again on the trip so it would not be long until she could swim).

Once water fun was over made a quick trip back to the room to get cleaned up and then we left the room again. This time we took a walk. Both the kids were in good spirits and had fun monkeying around.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0267.jpg

We considered watching the night time movie, but instead went into Everything Pop for some dinner.

As this was still oop at this point and because none of us could really decide on what we wanted, our best option seemed to be the pizza. OMG! I am so very very glad we did. It was cheap, very filling, gave us left overs and above all was YUMMY!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0268.jpg

After we had our fill of pizza we decided to split an oreo cupcake. Each of the kids took and ear. Alex oo’d and ahhh’d over his, noting it had “magic” in it. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0270.jpg We were all satisfied with just sharing. (should have seen that as a sign of things to come)

After dinner, we went back to the room and I had Zoe asleep by 8:30, I cleaned up a bit and then got into bed myself. I briefly, accidentally woke Steve (which caused his “not awake” self to not be particularly happy) Once Steve fell back to sleep (which was soon) I took completely journalling and turned in for the night. It was only 9:30pm.

Next Chapter: Checking out of Pop and heading to DTD

Joyciemc

01-06-2012, 06:06 PM

Monknmom

01-06-2012, 07:38 PM

Wow that's nice when they get along I bet! I know that Damien and his uncle are about the same years apart as Zoe and Alex and I know it's nice for us when they get along:lmao: which is sadly rare:rolleyes1! The pizza looks good, but I can't get over the fact that it's not my pizza... if you ever come to NY I will treat you to real pizza and that is very good! And I see that you guys did share a bit of food-- we ended up doing the same thing most of the time, none of us were ever really hungry to just eat...

KatMark

01-06-2012, 07:45 PM

Can I please have that cupcake now? It looks so yummy. :worship:

It looks like it was a fun night walking around Pop and having a meal. And that pizza doesn't look bad for Disney pizza.

disneydreamingdebby

01-06-2012, 07:48 PM

You're sweet to let him sleep. You must have been exhausted.:flower3:

annmarieda

01-07-2012, 12:30 AM

I got tired just reading about your travel day! But it still sounded like a good start to your trip, and your first day was great (minus the snafus for Zoe along the way)!

The tea sounds partly amazing and partly gross (that bacon wrapped thing was weird looking!) but definitely something I am considering at some point in the future!

I think with the champagne and an adult as a companion it would have been a different experience. It was really nice with Zoe. Next time I hope to go with Kira (and any other friends who may be around that would want to go ;))

Wow that's nice when they get along I bet! I know that Damien and his uncle are about the same years apart as Zoe and Alex and I know it's nice for us when they get along:lmao: which is sadly rare:rolleyes1! The pizza looks good, but I can't get over the fact that it's not my pizza... if you ever come to NY I will treat you to real pizza and that is very good! And I see that you guys did share a bit of food-- we ended up doing the same thing most of the time, none of us were ever really hungry to just eat...

I was actually really surprised by how good Alex was with Zoe the ENTIRE trip. I mean in the airport there was the incident with the crayon and I though "oh no, here we go..2 weeks of this is not going to be fun" Howeer, there wasn't many more like that. Course, that doesnt mean Alex or Zoe were perfect on the trip..but...

And I was surprised by the pizza. I tend to have a couple requirements with pizza. The crust has to be good (ie, not hard, not soggy, not greasy) The sauce has to be good (ie. not too sweet, not too salty) From there it is hard to screw up on the toppings... so this fit the bill.
Can I please have that cupcake now? It looks so yummy. :worship:

It looks like it was a fun night walking around Pop and having a meal. And that pizza doesn't look bad for Disney pizza.

Normally i stay away from Disney pizza. I don't like it. this though, I liked. And..there was nothing not to like about the cupcake!
:goodvibes
You're sweet to let him sleep. You must have been exhausted.:flower3:

Yeah... I was. However, I can function on little sleep and to be honest... I can't sleep much when on vacation. I feel too.. too...:hyper: <- yes, that is me while on vacation. And... Steve he can sleep like the dead and often does anywhere. AND he tends to get cranky if he doesn't get to sleep when he wants to. yes, key word when he WANTS to. He will tell me over and over he "needs" the sleep, but often I think it is he "wants" the sleep. :rolleyes: Just last night he mentioned that he thinks he may have spent too much time sleeping while on the trip. :rotfl: This is why we are a good match. I regret not sleeping enough...he regrets sleeping too much. Between the two of us we got just the right amount. :rotfl2:

Leger13

01-07-2012, 08:08 AM

lovethattink

01-07-2012, 11:16 AM

We had looked into DVC years ago. We don't mind staying at value resorts. We did the numbers crunch and for us DVC didn't work. My dh's job would give him off holidays and weekends. So most of our points would be spent at times that require more points.

Instead, we opted for an premium annual pass. Even when we lived up north, we would time our vacations 10 to 11 months apart. The savings we were able to use with the passes worked out better for us.

Over the years we have stayed at values for as low as $49, moderates for as low as $79. This year, the lowest we paid for a moderate was $103 per night, the lowest for a value was $53 a night, which will be our upcoming Feb stay.

The cheapest we have stayed at a DVC resort was $174 in Aug 2010 for a studio room. Now that same room is over $200 with the AP discount.

We also use our AP to get the Tables In Wonderland card at a discounted rate. I think TiW is available for DVC owners too, right? That saves us 20% off food and alcohol at participating restaurants and lounges.

Monknmom

01-07-2012, 11:50 AM

I was actually really surprised by how good Alex was with Zoe the ENTIRE trip. I mean in the airport there was the incident with the crayon and I though "oh no, here we go..2 weeks of this is not going to be fun" Howeer, there wasn't many more like that. Course, that doesnt mean Alex or Zoe were perfect on the trip..but...

And I was surprised by the pizza. I tend to have a couple requirements with pizza. The crust has to be good (ie, not hard, not soggy, not greasy) The sauce has to be good (ie. not too sweet, not too salty) From there it is hard to screw up on the toppings... so this fit the bill.

Oh that's good though... was this your first trip with just the 2 younger ones? Maybe that's why? Or maybe he's just maturing? Who knows, but it's nice to have times that they get along I can't understand that.... my parents probably would have enjoyed it too!

Yeah I don't like soggy bread, I like pizza with a crunch, but not hard and yes sauce is important! Here there is a place that makes it's own mozzarella and it is so good! It's called the pie at Salvatore's, but it's pretty far (like a 30-45 minute drive) so very rare that we eat there.

How was Zoe doing by the way? And what ever happened with your health? Are you good now? I hope so!

dizneeat

01-07-2012, 12:38 PM

Sorry I have been missing over the last two days Ann, but I caught Tom's stomach bug and was down and out for 48 hours! :laughing:

Feeling better now I am all caught up - love the pics of Alex and Zoe with the "potatoheads"! :lmao:

Can't wait to read more! :thumbsup2

tinacaplan

01-07-2012, 05:31 PM

Among all the mail that came while we were gone, was a mailing for DVC. Call..do the phone/internet tour and get a $40 gift card. While it would have been nice to get that for the trip... I am sure there will be other trips (at least I am hoping)

I have done the tour before, but this time I got more questions answered. Honestly, I am having a hard time seeing where it would be a good deal for us. I always go with some discount. (one that I don't have to pay for) The way I look at it, we would be paying about $100 a point to buy in and then about $4.73 a point for dues a year. I would then need to buy food and tickets.

I can see that at some point it will not be bad considering just paying dues + tickets + food.

Anyway... Steve actually before we got back had told me we should look into it. So it was worth looking into...but still thinking it may not be good for us. But...:woohoo: for getting a gift card!

As for DVC...it would be nice, for sure. Especially with my new desire to stay deluxe all the time. :rotfl:

As you can see, I am still mulling it over quite a bit. Did I mention I just paid my car off? So there is much more room in the budget for that (since we would definitely have to finance it) Oh.. and then there is the benefit of using the interest on our taxes. :scratchin

Yes, when I looked at the overall cost of the initial buy-in it occurred to me that it's kinda of around the same price as buying a new car. Maybe a bit more. When I thought about it like that, it didn't seem quite so crazy.

That said, I wouldn't want to have the regular payments right now. We're not in a place where that's best for us. I know we're spending a lot go to Disney right now, but we can stop whenever we want/need to. (:rotfl: yeah, right...I can stop whenever I want...:lmao:) I know we won't continue going at this rate for much longer. But I'll enjoy it for now.

How nice to come back to your room and find that towel animal. That's what's so amazing about Disney...there's something magical around every corner and when things look down, they can often start looking up pretty quick! :goodvibes

annmarieda

01-08-2012, 01:38 AM

Love the pictures of the kids with Mrs. Potato Head! The pizza looks delicious and so does the cup cake. I love that Alex said the Oreo had Disney Magic on it. ALL the food at Disney always tastes better due to the Magic!! :goodvibes

Disney food always does taste better... but it was certainly nice to have my teen aged son make this realization. :goodvibes

We had looked into DVC years ago. We don't mind staying at value resorts. We did the numbers crunch and for us DVC didn't work. My dh's job would give him off holidays and weekends. So most of our points would be spent at times that require more points.

Instead, we opted for an premium annual pass. Even when we lived up north, we would time our vacations 10 to 11 months apart. The savings we were able to use with the passes worked out better for us.

Over the years we have stayed at values for as low as $49, moderates for as low as $79. This year, the lowest we paid for a moderate was $103 per night, the lowest for a value was $53 a night, which will be our upcoming Feb stay.

The cheapest we have stayed at a DVC resort was $174 in Aug 2010 for a studio room. Now that same room is over $200 with the AP discount.

We also use our AP to get the Tables In Wonderland card at a discounted rate. I think TiW is available for DVC owners too, right? That saves us 20% off food and alcohol at participating restaurants and lounges.

I really appreciate your take on this. I always feel like I am missing something. To me, it almost seems like you are paying for the discount rather than getting a public offer or one that comes with an AP or through a pin. Does that make sense? I also wonder if for us it comes down to not going but once a year. Still, if I look at just the dues it makes the room 57 a night. That is excellent for deluxe accommodations. However for us we always always get either a room discount or fd. And...if not going with either thus needing to add the cost of the dp in, that is pretty costly. For us it would take the cost of the room+dp up to approx. 260 per night (approx 60 for the room and 200 for dp). Even going with a room discount and then paying for dp (instead of fd)... our room+dp cost would have been 400 this last trip and even though that is about 140 more per night... It would take over 100 nights to reach the cost of buying 160 points.

I digress however... maybe I still am missing something. Thank you though for allowing me to "type through" my thoughts with it.

Oh that's good though... was this your first trip with just the 2 younger ones? Maybe that's why? Or maybe he's just maturing? Who knows, but it's nice to have times that they get along I can't understand that.... my parents probably would have enjoyed it too!

Yeah I don't like soggy bread, I like pizza with a crunch, but not hard and yes sauce is important! Here there is a place that makes it's own mozzarella and it is so good! It's called the pie at Salvatore's, but it's pretty far (like a 30-45 minute drive) so very rare that we eat there.

How was Zoe doing by the way? And what ever happened with your health? Are you good now? I hope so!

It was our first trip as a family of 4.. and I do think that Alex was aware of my concerns with it. As frustrated as we get with our kids (especially our boys who are not very motivated..and I dare say their pictures are in the dictionary under slacker) they are good kids...and hopefully will turn into good men.

As for Zoe's health..well, we are under a week till she goes in. I am trying to prepare myself for those dreaded shared rooms where I feel as though we can't make a peep for fear of disturbing the other occupants. I have had such horrid experiences with room mates in hospitals it has me so nervous. I shouldn't be like this... I like people. I just hate sharing a room when my kid is in the hospital. I am in such a weird emotional state given that I am worrying about my kid... it is the last thing I want to have to worry about someone else's kid..or worse yet..their parent.

Lets give you a run down of my/our lovely room mates.

First - Was after I had Alex. WAY too much back story here...but suffice it to say I actually, literally almost died on the table...then they tried to kill me by giving me a blood transfusion that I reacted to... then my own body tried to give up again when my lungs filled with fluid...so needless to say things were a bit icky anyway. We were not room mates in the sense that we had beds in the same room...but a bathroom to share between us. Well for those of you who have had a baby...bathrooms can be a bit scary after ...and lets just say she wouldn't keep herself contained...and the hospital did nothing to help me so that I wouldn't have to attempt to kinda avoid/clean up after her.

Second - Zoe was a new born. We were placed door side in a room This gave window and heater control to the other parent. They spread out and pushed their belongings in along the curtain so that I could not even get a cot into Zoe's side of the bed. So I slept in a chair. Zoe was struggling to not become over heated since she was in a full body cast. They cranked up the heat to the point I was sweating. They informed us that we would not be allowed to have our older children (alex was 10 at the time) watch tv on our tv (ie. disney or nickelodeon) since they did not allow their children any tv time). Finally, the dad had had enough sharing a room with "the rice picker" and demanded to be moved. :eek: (assuming that is a racial slur against asian peoples..when are people ever going to get that I am not asian:confused:)

Third - After the first one, a new family moved in. Nice enough..maybe but very "colorful" in their language and LOUD. I guess mom was a bit intimidating too since she kinda started yelling at me about the bed I had and how she didn't have one like it... I think I was pretty tired by that point because I didn't really back down and just told her to take it up with the nurse cause it was the bed I was assigned to. Ultimately they also began stealing anything that wasn't nailed down. (including Zoe's special diapers that they would have no need for:confused:)

The next two were nothing but nice. They were during our last stay in June/July. However, I am sure it wasn't fun for them since I know I was very "on guard" and very closed off to them.

WAY more than you wanted... but it is on my mind when I think about her upcoming surgery. Well, that and the obvious worry surrounding her well being...how the surgery will turn out... how long she will be in the hospital... will she have to miss school... etc. ;)

My health..well.. I am fine. I won't go back in for more test for a little while. 6 months was it? I am not sure how long it has been...only a few, right? They said they would send me the stuff to remind me...and there have been no reminders. :goodvibes

Sorry I have been missing over the last two days Ann, but I caught Tom's stomach bug and was down and out for 48 hours! :laughing:

Feeling better now I am all caught up - love the pics of Alex and Zoe with the "potatoheads"! :lmao:

Can't wait to read more! :thumbsup2

Oh no!!! I hope Tom feels better. And you? Are you feeling ok? I hate stomach bugs!!!

As for DVC...it would be nice, for sure. Especially with my new desire to stay deluxe all the time. :rotfl:

Yes, when I looked at the overall cost of the initial buy-in it occurred to me that it's kinda of around the same price as buying a new car. Maybe a bit more. When I thought about it like that, it didn't seem quite so crazy.

That said, I wouldn't want to have the regular payments right now. We're not in a place where that's best for us. I know we're spending a lot go to Disney right now, but we can stop whenever we want/need to. (:rotfl: yeah, right...I can stop whenever I want...:lmao:) I know we won't continue going at this rate for much longer. But I'll enjoy it for now.

How nice to come back to your room and find that towel animal. That's what's so amazing about Disney...there's something magical around every corner and when things look down, they can often start looking up pretty quick! :goodvibes

I think you have a good point... you could stop going at any time. (kinda sounds like we all have a problem :rotfl2: I can stop at any time... ) Anyway... but there is truth to it. Funds... intentions... interests...if anything changed you could stop going on these disney trips. If you buy DVC then you do kinda find yourself obligated to go...or at bare minimum rent or give points away to be used.

dizneeat

01-08-2012, 02:31 AM

Oh no!!! I hope Tom feels better. And you? Are you feeling ok? I hate stomach bugs!!!

Thank you, Ann. Tom is feeling a-okay again and I am well again too. Fun fact is that I usually get over things like this much easier than Tom, this time it was the other way around. The mere thought of food sent me over the edge. Thank god, I am over it now!

lilpixiebabe101

01-08-2012, 09:28 AM

Disney food always does taste better... but it was certainly nice to have my teen aged son make this realization. :goodvibes

As for Zoe's health..well, we are under a week till she goes in. I am trying to prepare myself for those dreaded shared rooms where I feel as though we can't make a peep for fear of disturbing the other occupants. I have had such horrid experiences with room mates in hospitals it has me so nervous. I shouldn't be like this... I like people. I just hate sharing a room when my kid is in the hospital. I am in such a weird emotional state given that I am worrying about my kid... it is the last thing I want to have to worry about someone else's kid..or worse yet..their parent.

Lets give you a run down of my/our lovely room mates.

First - Was after I had Alex. WAY too much back story here...but suffice it to say I actually, literally almost died on the table...then they tried to kill me by giving me a blood transfusion that I reacted to... then my own body tried to give up again when my lungs filled with fluid...so needless to say things were a bit icky anyway. We were not room mates in the sense that we had beds in the same room...but a bathroom to share between us. Well for those of you who have had a baby...bathrooms can be a bit scary after ...and lets just say she wouldn't keep herself contained...and the hospital did nothing to help me so that I wouldn't have to attempt to kinda avoid/clean up after her.

Second - Zoe was a new born. We were placed door side in a room This gave window and heater control to the other parent. They spread out and pushed their belongings in along the curtain so that I could not even get a cot into Zoe's side of the bed. So I slept in a chair. Zoe was struggling to not become over heated since she was in a full body cast. They cranked up the heat to the point I was sweating. They informed us that we would not be allowed to have our older children (alex was 10 at the time) watch tv on our tv (ie. disney or nickelodeon) since they did not allow their children any tv time). Finally, the dad had had enough sharing a room with "the rice picker" and demanded to be moved. :eek: (assuming that is a racial slur against asian peoples..when are people ever going to get that I am not asian:confused:)

Third - After the first one, a new family moved in. Nice enough..maybe but very "colorful" in their language and LOUD. I guess mom was a bit intimidating too since she kinda started yelling at me about the bed I had and how she didn't have one like it... I think I was pretty tired by that point because I didn't really back down and just told her to take it up with the nurse cause it was the bed I was assigned to. Ultimately they also began stealing anything that wasn't nailed down. (including Zoe's special diapers that they would have no need for:confused:)

The next two were nothing but nice. They were during our last stay in June/July. However, I am sure it wasn't fun for them since I know I was very "on guard" and very closed off to them.

WAY more than you wanted... but it is on my mind when I think about her upcoming surgery. Well, that and the obvious worry surrounding her well being...how the surgery will turn out... how long she will be in the hospital... will she have to miss school... etc. ;)

My health..well.. I am fine. I won't go back in for more test for a little while. 6 months was it? I am not sure how long it has been...only a few, right? They said they would send me the stuff to remind me...and there have been no reminders. :goodvibes:

I love the Disney rice crispies. I don't think any other tastes quite as good... we might have used our 11 remaining snack credits on them :rolleyes1

That is a lot of really crap luck over the hospital rooms! I've never been to a LA hospital that a room had to be shared.. hmm. I've stayed in two of them and my family members have pretty much stayed in the other 2 or 3. Hmmm. But then again the rooms are only big enough for a single bed and a couch/sleeping pull out thingy.

Just make sure you go as soon as you get the reminder!

momabaarjo

01-08-2012, 05:28 PM

:)Finally caught up...I have to agree Alex has grown up this year so much! So much for the little teenager I have in my head! WOW! And of course I think Zoe gets cuter and cuter!

The tea party looks like so much fun. I have always wanted to do something like that with Ab. Maybe in a couple of years she would appreciate that...right now not so much. I think it killed her to be with us for 2 weeks straight, she did have glimmers here and there of the little girl I loved followed by long periods of the teen I would much rather not be around! Hmmmm....I like the idea of going with friends :rolleyes1

The medicine?! Yikes, but it sounds like everything went smoothly in replacing it!

jecskc

01-08-2012, 07:02 PM

I am enjoying you TR and looking forward to seeing your photos of Wilderness Lodge.

oceanwave

01-08-2012, 08:03 PM

Ann, Your hospital roommate experiences sounds horrible :eek: Hopefully when Zoe goes in next week she gets a good roommate. The last thing you guys need to be worrying about are roommates! So i'm sending you some of these :goodvibes:goodvibes:goodvibes

Leger13

01-08-2012, 08:09 PM

Oh gosh I just read about your hospital horror stories!! :scared1: Sending lots of good vibes and prayers for an uneventful hospital stay this go round. Y'all have been through enough as it is! :hug::hug:

disneydreamingdebby

01-08-2012, 08:25 PM

You've had your share of bad roommates! Here's hoping that this time you have wonderful ones! :hug:

Monknmom

01-08-2012, 10:21 PM

I'm sorry about the bad roommates Ann:hug:! maybe this time she will have a little girl just as bright and free going as she is! Or hopefully you won't have to have too many more of these visits to find one:goodvibes

Yes get yourself checked out as soon as you get the reminder... it should be nearing 6 months soon no? From what I saw and hear in your PTR and TR you are really the rock in your family so that requires you to stay healthy!

Alex does seem nice and maybe with the family of 4 they were able to open up to each other more because it was just the 2 of them to see? But whatever the reason I'm glad that it happened!

Don't worry about thinking you gave too much information-- I wouldn't have asked if I didn't know I was going to read! I think that this is kinda like free therapy for all of us! A way to yell at the world without getting into trouble! It's great! I can understand your concerns though!:grouphug:

annmarieda

01-09-2012, 02:18 AM

I love the Disney rice crispies. I don't think any other tastes quite as good... we might have used our 11 remaining snack credits on them :rolleyes1

I always say I am going to allow x amount of snacks a day... and some how I end up with ones to be used at the end. This time, I didn't get as many ricecrispies... lots of bags of gummies though. I swear my family LOVES them. (actually, it is my dh who seems to be addicted. :rolleyes:)

:)Finally caught up...I have to agree Alex has grown up this year so much! So much for the little teenager I have in my head! WOW! And of course I think Zoe gets cuter and cuter!

He did grow up quite a bit... but believe me he still had some very moody teen moments. We just are only on day 2 of the trip...and really, we haven't spent all that much time together as a family since day one was travel and the next day the guys and gals did separate things. Just wait. ;)
The tea party looks like so much fun. I have always wanted to do something like that with Ab. Maybe in a couple of years she would appreciate that...right now not so much. I think it killed her to be with us for 2 weeks straight, she did have glimmers here and there of the little girl I loved followed by long periods of the teen I would much rather not be around! Hmmmm....I like the idea of going with friends :rolleyes1

First, yes... going with friends is a great idea :thumbsup2

Second.. it won't be long before she only wants to spend time with you. It seems odd to me at times... just a short couple years ago, Kira was very testy with me...most of the time. Now we go out and do things together..and it is very very enjoyable. Ab will get there...she will.:hug:

The medicine?! Yikes, but it sounds like everything went smoothly in replacing it!

Yes, it did go rather smoothly. I was relieved!

Thank you, Ann. Tom is feeling a-okay again and I am well again too. Fun fact is that I usually get over things like this much easier than Tom, this time it was the other way around. The mere thought of food sent me over the edge. Thank god, I am over it now!

I am glad... I hate nothing more than stomach issues...so I feel horrible when I hear of anyone getting sick. I feel so bad for them!

I am enjoying you TR and looking forward to seeing your photos of Wilderness Lodge.

:welcome: I am glad you are enjoying it. I hope that I have some good pictures to share of WL... but I tend to take pictures when there is a lull...and usually I was on my way in or out at WL..

Ann, Your hospital roommate experiences sounds horrible :eek: Hopefully when Zoe goes in next week she gets a good roommate. The last thing you guys need to be worrying about are roommates! So i'm sending you some of these :goodvibes:goodvibes:goodvibes

:goodvibes They were enough to make me a bit nervous about sharing, that is for sure.

Oh gosh I just read about your hospital horror stories!! :scared1: Sending lots of good vibes and prayers for an uneventful hospital stay this go round. Y'all have been through enough as it is! :hug::hug:

Thank you so much! :goodvibes

You've had your share of bad roommates! Here's hoping that this time you have wonderful ones! :hug:

I hope so too. I hope also that I can be a good one. I always worry that we will be too loud..to this..to that... It makes me nervous.

I'm sorry about the bad roommates Ann:hug:! maybe this time she will have a little girl just as bright and free going as she is! Or hopefully you won't have to have too many more of these visits to find one:goodvibes

Yes get yourself checked out as soon as you get the reminder... it should be nearing 6 months soon no? From what I saw and hear in your PTR and TR you are really the rock in your family so that requires you to stay healthy!

Alex does seem nice and maybe with the family of 4 they were able to open up to each other more because it was just the 2 of them to see? But whatever the reason I'm glad that it happened!

Don't worry about thinking you gave too much information-- I wouldn't have asked if I didn't know I was going to read! I think that this is kinda like free therapy for all of us! A way to yell at the world without getting into trouble! It's great! I can understand your concerns though!:grouphug:

I do hope we get a good roomy..and I will get myself checked out. It just seems like I dont' have enough hours in a day to get that in...but I will once I get the reminder.

As for Alex, he always is a tad better when it is just he and Zoe. Well, better in some ways...not so "i am going to go off on my own" but he does tend to still want to push Zoe's buttons.

And.. the therapy! :rotfl2: I do appreciate the free therapy. I don't know what I would have done this last year without it. ;) Ya know.. a certain someplace makes me sooo sad when the talk starts up about mean and negative people over here. I dont' think I am completely believed when I say it isn't so. But honestly... HONESTLY... I could not have gone through everything this last year if I didn't have my "free therapy" :goodvibes You gals have given me strength... as odd as it may seem. You have and so I am very very blessed to be a dismember with such wonderful disfriends. :grouphug:

ladytink75

01-09-2012, 08:45 AM

lilpixiebabe101

01-09-2012, 10:38 AM

I always say I am going to allow x amount of snacks a day... and some how I end up with ones to be used at the end. This time, I didn't get as many ricecrispies... lots of bags of gummies though. I swear my family LOVES them. (actually, it is my dh who seems to be addicted. :rolleyes:)

Second.. it won't be long before she only wants to spend time with you. It seems odd to me at times... just a short couple years ago, Kira was very testy with me...most of the time. Now we go out and do things together..and it is very very enjoyable. Ab will get there...she will.:hug:

And.. the therapy! :rotfl2: I do appreciate the free therapy. I don't know what I would have done this last year without it. ;) Ya know.. a certain someplace makes me sooo sad when the talk starts up about mean and negative people over here. I dont' think I am completely believed when I say it isn't so. But honestly... HONESTLY... I could not have gone through everything this last year if I didn't have my "free therapy" :goodvibes You gals have given me strength... as odd as it may seem. You have and so I am very very blessed to be a dismember with such wonderful disfriends. :grouphug:

I know I saw the pictures on Kira's TR where she brought your DH back the gummies! They are good! I'm just partial to the Rice Crispies. The first trip my parents took without me, they asked what I wanted them to bring back... Rice Crispies of course!

I know I was a butt as a teenager to my mom. She and I were never close. We are now though, and it makes me :goodvibes . 10 years ago I would have done anything possible not to do anything with my mom, and now she and I are really close! She and I were discussing her date yesterday, and it great to be able to share like that. (Yes.. my mom went on her first date in almost 30 years. They are in divorce proceedings, so she has decided if my dad could sleep around on her and parade girlfriends around for the last 5 years, she could go out to eat and a movie with a very nice guy she works with. The smile on her face the other night when they were texting made me happy. I haven't seen that smile in a really long time. More to come about this in my TR on day umm 5 i think?)

And the therapy. I didn't have a whole lot of ranting and needing of actual therapy. But just being able to come over here and talk to you ladies after working all day was a different kind of therapy of its own. Talking to y'all and helping be a sounding board for each of y'all helped me take my mind off the hectic rat race that is my life atm. :hug::hug::hug:

Monknmom

01-09-2012, 12:13 PM

I always say I am going to allow x amount of snacks a day... and some how I end up with ones to be used at the end. This time, I didn't get as many ricecrispies... lots of bags of gummies though. I swear my family LOVES them. (actually, it is my dh who seems to be addicted. :rolleyes:)

And.. the therapy! :rotfl2: I do appreciate the free therapy. I don't know what I would have done this last year without it. ;) Ya know.. a certain someplace makes me sooo sad when the talk starts up about mean and negative people over here. I dont' think I am completely believed when I say it isn't so. But honestly... HONESTLY... I could not have gone through everything this last year if I didn't have my "free therapy" :goodvibes You gals have given me strength... as odd as it may seem. You have and so I am very very blessed to be a dismember with such wonderful disfriends. :grouphug:

Oh I loved the gummies and the rice krispies, but I didn't like the rice krispies with the chocolate (:scared1:shocking because I love all things chocolate)! We had lots of credits at the end to use so we just kinda used them on treats for kids back home!
I agree I love that "certain somplace":rotfl:- although I don't comment much, but I have to say that this is more personal and I feel better to open up to!

And the therapy. I didn't have a whole lot of ranting and needing of actual therapy. But just being able to come over here and talk to you ladies after working all day was a different kind of therapy of its own. Talking to y'all and helping be a sounding board for each of y'all helped me take my mind off the hectic rat race that is my life atm. :hug::hug::hug:

Yeah it does feel nice to come and share good/bad and in between moments with people and just open up about them! I know that most people on facebook don't care about my trip pictures but you guys do! I love that and the support for the down times is awesome!

chunkymonkey

01-10-2012, 01:26 PM

I am so excited to read your TR!! And Becky's too! I am jealous you guys got to meet up! I am LOVING the TR. It's really exciting and love all the backstories too. Hope Zoe is doing well, she is such an angel, and that was so so sweet how she thanked you for taking her to Disney again. Made my heart melt :lovestruc

Sorry have been MIA, my arm injuries have prevented me from typing that much, so outside from the occasional post, I probably will do more reading than writing for a while! But I do still have to finish my TR...

Hope you all had a happy near year!

Su-Lynn

momabaarjo

01-10-2012, 05:30 PM

I so love the free "head" checks you guys have given me over this past year...I too really need a check out from my reality and you have always given me that much need break.

As for the negative here...yes, there is some but I really try to avoid the conflict...just like I try to avoid the conflict in the other place too! I have found a great group here at the DIS and open to meeting lots more people who are positive or are willing to read my ramblings. I like the new place Ashley created too!

We ended up spending 14 snack credits on those pre-packaged fun Disney candy...the kids took it to friends and teachers. I used 6 credits on rice krispe treats...for myself...no one else likes them I have them hidden in my freezer! :rotfl:

tinacaplan

01-10-2012, 05:41 PM

Sorry have been MIA, my arm injuries have prevented me from typing that much, so outside from the occasional post, I probably will do more reading than writing for a while! But I do still have to finish my TR...

Hope you all had a happy near year!

Su-Lynn

Hey..I was actually thinking of you the other day and wondering where you'd gone! Good to "see" you. :goodvibes Hope all is well.

annmarieda

01-10-2012, 05:46 PM

Ann I just had to pass along that my DH's bio that we were awaiting approval from the State Department got approved on Friday so that means he will be leaving on the 19th to start training and then once he completes training he will be on his way out of the country for a year.. So :cool1: :banana: for a job FINALLY.. hopefully he can get in country sooner then later and this way I can plan a wonderful trip to DW for my daughter's bday

That is great news! :woohoo:

I hope he does get to come home soon though, that would be hard. A year? :scared1:

I know I saw the pictures on Kira's TR where she brought your DH back the gummies! They are good! I'm just partial to the Rice Crispies. The first trip my parents took without me, they asked what I wanted them to bring back... Rice Crispies of course!

I know I was a butt as a teenager to my mom. She and I were never close. We are now though, and it makes me :goodvibes . 10 years ago I would have done anything possible not to do anything with my mom, and now she and I are really close! She and I were discussing her date yesterday, and it great to be able to share like that. (Yes.. my mom went on her first date in almost 30 years. They are in divorce proceedings, so she has decided if my dad could sleep around on her and parade girlfriends around for the last 5 years, she could go out to eat and a movie with a very nice guy she works with. The smile on her face the other night when they were texting made me happy. I haven't seen that smile in a really long time. More to come about this in my TR on day umm 5 i think?)

And the therapy. I didn't have a whole lot of ranting and needing of actual therapy. But just being able to come over here and talk to you ladies after working all day was a different kind of therapy of its own. Talking to y'all and helping be a sounding board for each of y'all helped me take my mind off the hectic rat race that is my life atm. :hug::hug::hug:

I think once girls grow up they tend to become close with their moms again. It is definitely the case with Kira and I. I just hope that Zoe and I don't go through a period where she hates me.... but sadly, it is likely to happen. :sad2:

Oh I loved the gummies and the rice krispies, but I didn't like the rice krispies with the chocolate (:scared1:shocking because I love all things chocolate)! We had lots of credits at the end to use so we just kinda used them on treats for kids back home!
I agree I love that "certain somplace":rotfl:- although I don't comment much, but I have to say that this is more personal and I feel better to open up to!

It is funny how we all kinda end up with credits in the end. I swore we would have to be careful with ours. We even paid oop for some snacks early in the trip since we had already used our credit for the day.

As for the other place... yeah. I just don't understand. :sad2: I feel like this is more my "home" and the constant slamming is getting to me. I don't feel like anyone here slams that place so :confused:

I am so excited to read your TR!! And Besty's too! I am jealous you guys got to meet up! I am LOVING the TR. It's really exciting and love all the backstories too. Hope Zoe is doing well, she is such an angel, and that was so so sweet how she thanked you for taking her to Disney again. Made my heart melt :lovestruc

Sorry have been MIA, my arm injuries have prevented me from typing that much, so outside from the occasional post, I probably will do more reading than writing for a while! But I do still have to finish my TR...

Hope you all had a happy near year!

Su-Lynn

I posted on Betsy's TR.. but it is so nice to know you are here reading.

Betsy was very fun to meet. I honestly can not imagine what her friends were thinking in October. She is such a fun loving person... and to just sit idle or worse yet not involve her :confused:

I hope your arm is healing... and this won't be forever :hug:

I so love the free "head" checks you guys have given me over this past year...I too really need a check out from my reality and you have always given me that much need break.

As for the negative here...yes, there is some but I really try to avoid the conflict...just like I try to avoid the conflict in the other place too! I have found a great group here at the DIS and open to meeting lots more people who are positive or are willing to read my ramblings. I like the new place Ashley created too!

We ended up spending 14 snack credits on those pre-packaged fun Disney candy...the kids took it to friends and teachers. I used 6 credits on rice krispe treats...for myself...no one else likes them I have them hidden in my freezer! :rotfl:

I am so glad you are back from your trip. You may get support from us...but you also are SOO good about giving it as well. :goodvibes

annmarieda

01-10-2012, 06:25 PM

Checking out of Pop and heading to DTD

We all woke up about 8:30 am. It was nice to sleep in a bit. After we ate a breakfast bar that we brought from home, we loaded up our luggage and prepared to check out of Pop.

It was a short walk to luggage services and when we arrived there was little to no line. Well, there was a short line... with one family. We all got quite the chuckle as a dad turned to his kids to tell them to stay together. Only it wasn’t so simple as “please stay together”. The comment was “Stay together or I’ll break your legs” He said this with some sort of Jersey or NY accent. Cracked us all up mostly because we were not sure if he didn't in fact mean it :rotfl:

We dropped off all our bags to be delivered to WL and left. I hate this part since I never know quite what to tip. I don’t seem to have trouble in other areas, but bell services throws me. :confused:

After leaving our luggage with hopes to see it in our new home, we walked around Pop a bit to say our final farewells.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0272.jpg

Next, we caught a bus to DTD. At this point, we were all getting hungry. I had signed up for the EOS birthday club and had received my coupon for my free sandwich. Since we were still not using dp credits, this was the perfect time to use that coupon.

I got the holiday sandwich. It was sooo so yummy! It had turkey, cranberries, stuffing and gravy on it. I know that doesn’t sound great and even the picture kinda looks maybe a bit scary. However, let me assure you this was one of the best sandwiches I have ever had.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0273.jpg

Steve got the Mediterranean chicken wrap. He liked it well enough. The only down side to it was that in all the hectic atmosphere they almost sent us away without his sandwich.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0275.jpg

Alex had the original roast beef sandwich. Not yet totally in the routine of “wait till mom gets a pic” , he had it nearly devoured before I could get to taking his picture.:rotfl:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0274.jpg

Zoe was not feeling hungry, but rather thirsty. I figured she could have a nibble off of one of ours if she changed her mind. All she then got was a strawberry banana smoothie.

After lunch, we just wandered around a bit since we had something big planned for the afternoon.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0276.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0277.jpg

Next Chapter: Announcing Her Royal Cuteness

annmarieda

01-10-2012, 06:37 PM

Just had to share that I got my hair cut today. I got like 6 inches cut off my hair. It was mid back and now it is above my shoulders and layered. I will have to take a picture and share once I get my grey out. I wouldn't say I love my cut... but it is definitely better than it was. Sadly, no amount of new style makes me not bald on top. :sad2:

And for Zoe.. :headache::headache: Got a call from the surgery scheduler. First the surgery is scheduled for 11:30am. This isn't a horrible time since we have to drive up there. However, since Zoe will have to wait to eat... the fact that it is later make it that much harder. What the problem is... no one seems to know what is going on this friday. She is set to go home that afternoon. If this really is the case that is good. I would love to be home this weekend with her rather than in the hospital. However, remember that one hand didn't talk to the other last June and she was scheduled to go home after surgery...a surgery that lasted almost 12 hours? So... I just don't believe what they say...especially when the doctor told me she would be admitted. When I called the clinic I had to leave a message. Then the nurse called me back hours later to let me know that she doesn't know and that she can't get a hold of the doctor to find out... but that all my questions would be good ones to ask him Friday morning. :scared1::scared1: I told her that while I understand she doesn't have the answers for me... friday seems a bit late to get answers as to the how and what we are doing and any alternatives to either.

So... busy day again for me. But hey I got a small update done!. :rotfl2:

lilpixiebabe101

01-10-2012, 07:47 PM

I think once girls grow up they tend to become close with their moms again. It is definitely the case with Kira and I. I just hope that Zoe and I don't go through a period where she hates me.... but sadly, it is likely to happen. :sad2:

It is funny how we all kinda end up with credits in the end. I swore we would have to be careful with ours. We even paid oop for some snacks early in the trip since we had already used our credit for the day.

As for the other place... yeah. I just don't understand. :sad2: I feel like this is more my "home" and the constant slamming is getting to me. I don't feel like anyone here slams that place so :confused:

Little girls also sadly become such daddy's girls as they get older. I had issues with my dad at the beginning of my young adult phase... I honestly don't know if mom and I would be this close if those issues hadn't happened with my dad. I was completely and totally a "daddy's girl".

That reminds me I need to find the picture of our Rice Krispies! So did we and there were some things we wouldn't have used the credits on because it would have been better to use the credit for something else. Like one night we got 4 pastry type things in France and got our two drinks too. The line was so hectic we decided it wasn't worth it to split it up!

Yeah I don't know what their deal is with the disboards... hmm

Just had to share that I got my hair cut today. I got like 6 inches cut off my hair. It was mid back and now it is above my shoulders and layered. I will have to take a picture and share once I get my grey out. I wouldn't say I love my cut... but it is definitely better than it was. Sadly, no amount of new style makes me not bald on top. :sad2:

And for Zoe.. :headache::headache: Got a call from the surgery scheduler. First the surgery is scheduled for 11:30am. This isn't a horrible time since we have to drive up there. However, since Zoe will have to wait to eat... the fact that it is later make it that much harder. What the problem is... no one seems to know what is going on this friday. She is set to go home that afternoon. If this really is the case that is good. I would love to be home this weekend with her rather than in the hospital. However, remember that one hand didn't talk to the other last June and she was scheduled to go home after surgery...a surgery that lasted almost 12 hours? So... I just don't believe what they say...especially when the doctor told me she would be admitted. When I called the clinic I had to leave a message. Then the nurse called me back hours later to let me know that she doesn't know and that she can't get a hold of the doctor to find out... but that all my questions would be good ones to ask him Friday morning. :scared1::scared1: I told her that while I understand she doesn't have the answers for me... friday seems a bit late to get answers as to the how and what we are doing and any alternatives to either.

So... busy day again for me. But hey I got a small update done!. :rotfl2:

Yay! Can't wait for a hair picture!

Boo on the doctors. Did she really expect you to leave it at waiting till Friday? It's not like she's going in for a checkup. She's going in to have flipping surgery! :headache:

lilpixiebabe101

01-10-2012, 07:49 PM

Haha .. I meant to comment on the update too..

We wanted to try EOS.. but we just weren't hungry on our DTD afternoon. Maybe because we had stuffed ourselves already at Sci-Fi? lol

Alexa too pics with those ladies outside the WoD store as well!

dizneeat

01-10-2012, 10:48 PM

Ann, I hope they let you know about the hospital stay BEFORE Friday! And I am keeping sweet Zoe in my thoughts and prayers this weekend. :hug:

And I love the new update! Pop is such a cute resort, we have always loved staying there.
That holiday sandwich at EoS is one of the best they are offering! You chose very wisely! :thumbsup2

ladytink75

01-10-2012, 10:54 PM

Ann I'm use to him being gone he is prior Navy so him being gone for long periods of time is nothing new to me or our girls. One year he was gone eight months out of the year. He will be gone for 140 days then we will meet up in Spain just him and I for his 30 days rest and relaxation before he heads back for another 140 days. I think with everything that I have planned for the year for the girls and I, we will be to busy to even notice the time going by. I have a trip coming up in May to go see my parents then in July my girls have a martial arts tourney in South Carolina and I also want to pay a visit to the DVC resort in Hilton Head plus I have friends that I want to see in VA. So i think our time will be well consumed with things we want to do.

Monknmom

01-11-2012, 09:04 AM

I wanted to eat at EOS and we didn't, they look pretty good though! And they way Alex ate it just means that his was really good! How cute the pictures are coming out!

As far as your life update--- I'm sorry about the doctors! It's kinda silly though as it is Wednesday morning (well you posted this yesterday though so they had more time) so they have 2 full days to get back to you with answers and they aren't... hopefully the best turns out though and you have all of us praying for both of you and the roommate!

lovethattink

01-11-2012, 11:23 AM

Great update! Love EoS! I keep wanting to try the holiday sandwich but haven't been brave enough to break away from my tunamelt habit, lol.

Can't wait to see pics of the new do.

Love the way they think you can drop everything and just wing it at the hospital. I hope you get answers soon, BEFORE you head there would be nice!!

momabaarjo

01-11-2012, 04:38 PM

Prayers and thoughts always for you and Zoe! She is such a trooper!

I loved EoS...it was not a planned part of our trip, but a very pleasant one other then the atmosphere of RUSH that happened right after we placed our order! Hmmmm...I got the Holiday too...YUM-O! Save the rest for my TR!

Funny about the guy in the check out line...I probably have been over heard saying things like that out of affection....:rotfl:although there was one moment at DTD that I have not to happy that I had.

shocky5

01-11-2012, 08:31 PM

I'm sooo far behind... I will get caught up... but I promised to get my TR started tonight so off I go... :goodvibes

shocky5

01-11-2012, 10:23 PM

:hug: to you and Zoe and upcoming surgery. Will be waiting to hear how it goes. And I don't blame you for being skeptical and leary of being released to go home same day of surgery!

I'm officially all caught up on your report now! It's a great read!! :goodvibes And holy moly Alex is TALL! I love the pictures you took at Pop and the tea at GF looks like fun! I'm up for it on the girls trip! :goodvibes

I hope you have a restful night tonight! We got our first snow tonight... not sure what that will bring for work/school tomorrow but for now, I'm enjoying seeing it out the window while I finally get caught up on here!

So happy to have time to be back on here and get caught up with everyone again!!! :grouphug:

veggiemama

01-12-2012, 08:05 AM

:hug::hug: keeping you and Zoe in my prayers as you prepare for surgery. I completely understand the skepticism but I hope that things go better than planned and that you will both be home for the weekend and able to rest more comfortably. :hug:

ladytink75

01-12-2012, 09:49 AM

Praying for you and Zoe

tinacaplan

01-12-2012, 11:26 AM

I have a list of things... :rotfl: First, and most importantly...:hug: Its just so hard when you have to go through this with your babies, and even harder when the medical professionals are not making things any easier. I'm sure you know that you have all of us to lean to for moral support and positive thoughts. :grouphug: And just remember to trust your mama bear instincts. (Is there a mama bear smiley...guess not...too bad)

Loved the picture of Zoe in front of the giant POP icon. When we drove through there on our way to the BC last year, I purposely tried to keep Max from looking out the windows. I know if took one look at those giant icons, he'd want to stay there. :rotfl:

Glad to hear you did something good at DTD. My April trip is at SSR and I'm trying to get happy about the fact that we're across the street from there, but, well...its hard.

Your sandwich looks good. Don't know if you watched "Friends," but there was an entire episode where Ross loses it because someone at work ate his post-Thanksgiving turkey sandwich. :rotfl:

Sending lots of this :goodvibes and lots of these :hug:

KatMark

01-12-2012, 11:41 AM

Ann, I will be keeping you and Zoe in my prayers and close in heart tomorrow for the surgery. Please update and let us know how she is when you can.

I love your morning at DTD (I especially like the picture of Zoe and Alex sitting together).

Mark would REALLY like that holiday sandwich.

Leger13

01-12-2012, 11:50 AM

I really want to try EOS. We've never taken the time but it looks and sounds delicious.

Just had to share that I got my hair cut today. I got like 6 inches cut off my hair. It was mid back and now it is above my shoulders and layered. I will have to take a picture and share once I get my grey out. I wouldn't say I love my cut... but it is definitely better than it was. Sadly, no amount of new style makes me not bald on top. :sad2:

And for Zoe.. :headache::headache: Got a call from the surgery scheduler. First the surgery is scheduled for 11:30am. This isn't a horrible time since we have to drive up there. However, since Zoe will have to wait to eat... the fact that it is later make it that much harder. What the problem is... no one seems to know what is going on this friday. She is set to go home that afternoon. If this really is the case that is good. I would love to be home this weekend with her rather than in the hospital. However, remember that one hand didn't talk to the other last June and she was scheduled to go home after surgery...a surgery that lasted almost 12 hours? So... I just don't believe what they say...especially when the doctor told me she would be admitted. When I called the clinic I had to leave a message. Then the nurse called me back hours later to let me know that she doesn't know and that she can't get a hold of the doctor to find out... but that all my questions would be good ones to ask him Friday morning. :scared1::scared1: I told her that while I understand she doesn't have the answers for me... friday seems a bit late to get answers as to the how and what we are doing and any alternatives to either.

So... busy day again for me. But hey I got a small update done!. :rotfl2:

Can't wait to see the picture of the hair! I chopped my LONG hair off when I was pregnant just before Alex was born. I'm now trying to grow it out again because I totally miss my long long hair. But I hope you come to love your cut!

:hug::hug: thoughts and prayers for you and Zoe!! Hope the surgery goes well and that you guys do get to go home.

disneydreamingdebby

01-12-2012, 06:54 PM

Sending prayers for Zoe and all of you for tomorrow's surgery.:flower3:

oceanwave

01-12-2012, 07:35 PM

Ann, will be keeping Zoe, you and your family in my prayers for tomorrow. Sending some :goodvibes:goodvibes:goodvibes your way.

dizneeat

01-12-2012, 11:38 PM

Prayers and good thought for Zoe and you today, Ann! I'll be thinking of you all day! :hug:

momabaarjo

01-13-2012, 06:05 AM

Adding my prayers in for Zoe and family today!

Monknmom

01-13-2012, 08:01 AM

Hey I think you might be on your way the hospital? I just want to let you know that we will be thinking/praying for you guys all day and I hope that everything goes according to plan and you have all of your answers before everything starts! Please let us know how she's doing! I hope for the best!!!!

ladytink75

01-13-2012, 08:16 AM

We are praying for Zoe today.. Also I noticed that you guys will be getting hit with some bad weather maybe snow this weekend be careful out on the roads. I know Whidbey Island is due to get hit with snow.

tankgirl427

01-13-2012, 02:18 PM

Thinking of you two today. Hope everything goes better than great!:grouphug::hug:

annmarieda

01-14-2012, 01:03 PM

Little girls also sadly become such daddy's girls as they get older. I had issues with my dad at the beginning of my young adult phase... I honestly don't know if mom and I would be this close if those issues hadn't happened with my dad. I was completely and totally a "daddy's girl".

My girls love their dad. However, they love me probably equally so they definitely are not "daddy's girls" Sometimes I wish they had that with him. He loves them very much, but dotting is not something that he really does. ( I think I could count on one hand how many times I have received flowers in 20+ years.)

That reminds me I need to find the picture of our Rice Krispies! So did we and there were some things we wouldn't have used the credits on because it would have been better to use the credit for something else. Like one night we got 4 pastry type things in France and got our two drinks too. The line was so hectic we decided it wasn't worth it to split it up!

I think we all planned so much we would have like to have thought that we would have it all laid out perfectly. However, there were lots of times when we just had to go with the flow cause it didn't allow for something...sometimes even as simple as splitting up the order like that. I think in a normal vacation that is the case... but the Christmas time crowds made it even more the case.

Yay! Can't wait for a hair picture!

I tried to take a picture. I am just not sure how teens do the self pic thing. I took a dozen before I finally think I may have got a half decent one where I didn't look crazy. However, you can't really see the hair cut too much. Plus I can where it down and parted to the side...or flip out the ends..or pin it back. So far I like it best pinned back with the ends flipped out. Didn't take a picture of that though. :rolleyes:

Boo on the doctors. Did she really expect you to leave it at waiting till Friday? It's not like she's going in for a checkup. She's going in to have flipping surgery!

I was talking to a friend about it and she thought that this person may have in fact been from a temp agency. Kinda makes sense. She has been super frustrating.

We wanted to try EOS.. but we just weren't hungry on our DTD afternoon. Maybe because we had stuffed ourselves already at Sci-Fi? lol

This was our first time trying EOS. I must say it was yummy. WGPE is still my favorite of the two though.

Ann, I hope they let you know about the hospital stay BEFORE Friday! And I am keeping sweet Zoe in my thoughts and prayers this weekend. :hug:

I did get a hold of someone on thursday so that helped a lot. Thank you so much for the thoughts and prayers. :hug:

And I love the new update! Pop is such a cute resort, we have always loved staying there.

Even though Steve really, really liked WL he also found Pop to be nice. I mean.. other than the obvious lack of "deluxe" amenities, it is a really nice resort. I am sure I will stay there again..

That holiday sandwich at EoS is one of the best they are offering! You chose very wisely!

You are not kidding that I chose wisely. It looked and sounded kinda odd. However, I had read enough about it and how everyone liked it to think I had to try it. I tried to get Alex to get it so I could have just a taste. He didn't want it though, so I had to get an entire one for myself. I am SO glad I did. :cloud9:

I wanted to eat at EOS and we didn't, they look pretty good though! And they way Alex ate it just means that his was really good! How cute the pictures are coming out!

He was really hungry and LOVED his sandwich. He played along really well with me on the "get a picture first" game. He just wasn't aware at this point that we would be doing it each time. :rotfl:

As far as your life update--- I'm sorry about the doctors! It's kinda silly though as it is Wednesday morning (well you posted this yesterday though so they had more time) so they have 2 full days to get back to you with answers and they aren't... hopefully the best turns out though and you have all of us praying for both of you and the roommate!

Well, at the 24 hour mark I found an old email with the address of one of the main urology nurses and wrote to her. I apologized for not going through "proper channels" She got right back to me and cleared things up. Apparently, plans were made after the ER visit on the 24th. (gee, you would have thought someone could have let me know that?:rolleyes:) Bottom line, the doctor was not going to know how extensive the surgery was going to need to be until he got in a scoped it out. So that is why things were so uncertain.. but cause they literally were. I am not sure why the nurse or temp or who ever she was couldn't have just told me this on Tuesday. :confused3

Ann I'm use to him being gone he is prior Navy so him being gone for long periods of time is nothing new to me or our girls. One year he was gone eight months out of the year. He will be gone for 140 days then we will meet up in Spain just him and I for his 30 days rest and relaxation before he heads back for another 140 days. I think with everything that I have planned for the year for the girls and I, we will be to busy to even notice the time going by. I have a trip coming up in May to go see my parents then in July my girls have a martial arts tourney in South Carolina and I also want to pay a visit to the DVC resort in Hilton Head plus I have friends that I want to see in VA. So i think our time will be well consumed with things we want to do.

I am glad you are able to stay busy while he is away. I think at one point I would never been able to deal with Steve being gone for long periods..now :rolleyes:

Great update! Love EoS! I keep wanting to try the holiday sandwich but haven't been brave enough to break away from my tunamelt habit, lol.

OMG! You have to have to try it sometime. Ever so yummy!

Can't wait to see pics of the new do.

I will try and get one on here soon. And..what about you? pics of your new do? Will we be seeing some?

Love the way they think you can drop everything and just wing it at the hospital. I hope you get answers soon, BEFORE you head there would be nice!!

I think the one gal who has been filling in has been most of the problem. I got in contact with a main nurse on Thursday and things got cleared up. In the end though, we packed like we were staying...but hoped we would not.

Prayers and thoughts always for you and Zoe! She is such a trooper!

:hug: Thank you.

I loved EoS...it was not a planned part of our trip, but a very pleasant one other then the atmosphere of RUSH that happened right after we placed our order! Hmmmm...I got the Holiday too...YUM-O! Save the rest for my TR!
QUOTE]

Can't wait to read about it on your TR!

[QUOTE=momabaarjo;43704649]
Funny about the guy in the check out line...I probably have been over heard saying things like that out of affection....although there was one moment at DTD that I have not to happy that I had.

Again, can't wait to hear about it... but ya know I think that is what was so funny. We all say things to our kids. Sometimes joking, sometimes out of frustration... sometimes out of exasperation. However, the dead pan "or I'll break your legs" was just too funny to us. :rotfl:

I'm sooo far behind... I will get caught up... but I promised to get my TR started tonight so off I go...

I am so glad you started your TR!!!

:hug: to you and Zoe and upcoming surgery. Will be waiting to hear how it goes. And I don't blame you for being skeptical and leery of being released to go home same day of surgery!

I think that it was just odd having discussed one thing and then finding that something else had been decided upon. Believe me... I want to go home. I want it to be minimal. However, planning for that and then finding out that we would be staying a week would send me over the edge. I am so glad that it turned out to be simple enough!!

I'm officially all caught up on your report now! It's a great read!! And holy moly Alex is TALL! I love the pictures you took at Pop and the tea at GF looks like fun! I'm up for it on the girls trip!

Alex has grown seriously tall this year and has put on a ton of weight. He is my largest guy in the house now. but:ssst: don't tell Zach. ;)

I hope you have a restful night tonight! We got our first snow tonight... not sure what that will bring for work/school tomorrow but for now, I'm enjoying seeing it out the window while I finally get caught up on here!

We are suppose to get snow this week. I have mixed feelings about it. I mean, driving it it doesn't bother me... but it means cold and also a little miss wanting to go out and play in it. For us.. snow often is too wet to play in...more like slush.

:hug::hug: keeping you and Zoe in my prayers as you prepare for surgery. I completely understand the skepticism but I hope that things go better than planned and that you will both be home for the weekend and able to rest more comfortably. :hug:
Thank you so much. They did go better than expected and we will be resting nicely at home this weekend!!!

Praying for you and Zoe:hug: thanks

First, and most importantly...:hug: Its just so hard when you have to go through this with your babies, and even harder when the medical professionals are not making things any easier. I'm sure you know that you have all of us to lean to for moral support and positive thoughts. :grouphug: And just remember to trust your mama bear instincts. (Is there a mama bear smiley...guess not...too bad)

Honestly, it was just that one "nurse" I am not sure why she was less than helpful. Once I got a hold of one of the main nurses in the clinic everything she said made sense.

And thank you, I do know that I have all of you to lean on! I wouldn't have made it through 2011 without you all :grouphug:

Loved the picture of Zoe in front of the giant POP icon. When we drove through there on our way to the BC last year, I purposely tried to keep Max from looking out the windows. I know if took one look at those giant icons, he'd want to stay there.

Thank you, I had a hard time getting that picture. I wanted the entire perspective (top to bottom of the icon) but I also wanted Zoe to be recognizable. My camera is not the best...so it was hard.

Glad to hear you did something good at DTD. My April trip is at SSR and I'm trying to get happy about the fact that we're across the street from there, but, well...its hard.

I like DTD well enough. I mean... lots of shopping and eating. I think Steve kinda felt like we pay how much to go on vacation to go shopping? :confused: He did like the food there though. One of his favorite meals was without us (Ragland Road)

Your sandwich looks good. Don't know if you watched "Friends," but there was an entire episode where Ross loses it because someone at work ate his post-Thanksgiving turkey sandwich.
I didn't watch friends... but if his sandwich was as good as the one I had at EOS, I could see why there was an episode devoted to him being upset that someone ate it. The gravy... cranberries YUMM!!

Ann, I will be keeping you and Zoe in my prayers and close in heart tomorrow for the surgery. Please update and let us know how she is when you can.

Thanks so much, I appreciate your prayers. I will give a complete update after I post comments, but suffice it to say it went very well and we are all home now.

I love your morning at DTD (I especially like the picture of Zoe and Alex sitting together).

Mark would REALLY like that holiday sandwich.

It was a nice and relaxed morning. That picture is probably one of the better ones of Alex and Zoe

I really want to try EOS. We've never taken the time but it looks and sounds delicious.

It really is a must do! Very yummy sandwiches... on the dp... not hugely expensive if not using the dp. :goodvibes

I Can't wait to see the picture of the hair! I chopped my LONG hair off when I was pregnant just before Alex was born. I'm now trying to grow it out again because I totally miss my long long hair. But I hope you come to love your cut!

I like the cut. I was worried about how much time it would take me to style. Since my hair had become very unmanageable though, it really isn't taking more time now than it was when I was trying to get it to go into what ever updo I was trying to get it to go into.

thoughts and prayers for you and Zoe!! Hope the surgery goes well and that you guys do get to go home.

Thank you. :goodvibes

Sending prayers for Zoe and all of you for tomorrow's surgery.:flower3:

Thanks so much.

annmarieda

01-14-2012, 01:03 PM

Ann, will be keeping Zoe, you and your family in my prayers for tomorrow. Sending some :goodvibes:goodvibes:goodvibes your way.

That is so kind of you, :hug:

Prayers and good thought for Zoe and you today, Ann! I'll be thinking of you all day! :hug:

Thanks, Karin. :hug:
Adding my prayers in for Zoe and family today!

:hug: They were appreciated!

Hey I think you might be on your way the hospital? I just want to let you know that we will be thinking/praying for you guys all day and I hope that everything goes according to plan and you have all of your answers before everything starts! Please let us know how she's doing! I hope for the best!!!!

I apologize for not updating before we left. Things were so hectic. Things are going very well today though!
We are praying for Zoe today.. Also I noticed that you guys will be getting hit with some bad weather maybe snow this weekend be careful out on the roads. I know Whidbey Island is due to get hit with snow.

Thanks so much! Yes, we are suppose to get hit. Or rather WWA is. We tend to get a bit different weather than Seattle... but we will see. So far nothing...

Thinking of you two today. Hope everything goes better than great!:grouphug::hug:

Thank you so much! It did go better than great. :hug:

annmarieda

01-14-2012, 02:17 PM

I am sorry that I didn't give a run down before and after the surgery yesterday. Things were just hectic. I posted much of this in the comments, but for those who don't read through the comments, but rather just the main posts...

Thursday I sent an email to one of the main urology clinic nurses. I basically said I felt I didn't have enough information and that I had no intent on bringing Zoe in for a surgery that was undefined.

She wrote back and let me know that after the 12/24 ER visit some changes to the plan had been made (hmm, could someone have let me know this? :confused3) Bottom line was that the doctor was not going to know what he needed to do until he go in and saw the state/condition of her stoma and channel.

I found this acceptable. I mean... it cleared things up. It wasn't that I wasn't being told what was going to happen, but rather...they really didn't know for sure. However, it was suspected that little would need to be done and their hope was that Zoe would go home that day.

So we planned to stay but hoped to be able to go home.

I brought Zach with me to keep me company. I tend to forget how awkward it is to bring him. Every person who met us addressed him as Steve or dad. :confused3 It just got more and more embarrassing for all of us. Then the anesthesiologist address us as the parent and started to shake my hand when I said he is my son...and as he put his hand out to shake hers...she recoiled and did not shake his hand. He felt totally disrespected. I tried to just explain to him that I am sure she was just really really embarrassed. The next nurse handled it much better...better than anyone. She noted that she was mistaken and laughed it off. Personally, I think this made it much easier and not so awkward. Still...Zach was irritated by the time Zoe was taken back to the OR.

Zach and I sat in the cafeteria while we waited. About the time I was really noting that the surgery was going longer than they said...the pager went off and it was time to go back and see her.

The revision was a bit more involved than they were hoping. Several incisions had to be made..but nothing so severe that she required an overnight stay. :woohoo:

When we got back to her room, we beat her there. When she arrived, she was fully awake. This surprised me since she normally comes back pretty groggy.

Basically at that point, we got her ready and then were set to check out. First she got to take out her IV. Yes, my dd is so accustom to iv's now that they are now allowing her to take them out. Well, actually the last couple times she kinda insisted and the nurse had to be on the ball so she didn't spring a leak. This time I warned her that Zoe wouldn't just help... and so to be prepared. She coached Zoe through it just fine and Zoe did a great job.

Then Zach wheeled her out by chair to the car and we headed out of the city to grab a meal. Zoe was starving since she had not had anything since dinner the night before and it was now nearly 4pm.

In our rush to get out of the hospital and to the restaurant, I made a mistake. It was about the time that Amy texted me that I realized something had been left behind at the hospital. So when Amy asked if we were headed home... it was interesting timing since now I realized we might have to go back to the hospital. What for? Any guesses? Good grief I am a bad mom...or terribly scatterbrained... or..maybe there is some strange battle going on between me and pharmaceuticals. (one that I seem to be losing) Yes, I left the hospital without getting her prescription. :confused3 Luckily, Steve was about to get off work and agreed to just drive a bit north to get it before heading home (south)

So we got home and she was still doing pretty well. I got caught up on my threads and emails and then we had dinner (pretty late since we had ate such a late lunch) By that time she was pretty tired and so I talked her into taking a dose of her pain medicine before going to bed...then she was OUT.

Today she is doing pretty well... she has been bopping all around. I think I heard her in her room not long ago jumping rope. Now though, I think she is sore since she is whimpering. Off I go to get some more medicine in her...and maybe a nap!

dizneeat

01-14-2012, 02:33 PM

lovethattink

01-14-2012, 02:43 PM

So glad to hear everything went so well! Except for Zach being mistaken as Steve. Jumping rope?! Guess she was feeling much better!

veggiemama

01-14-2012, 02:43 PM

just popping in really quick to see how things went.

So glad that surgery went well and that you were able to go home!! :yay:

Zoe is such a trooper and :worship: that she take out her own IV!

annmarieda

01-14-2012, 03:06 PM

Ann, to put it in a nutshell, I am SO happy Zoe got to go home right away. So happy that everything worked out in your favour. Zoe is such a trooper that is all I can say!
Lots of :hug: :hug: :hug: for all of you involved!

So glad to hear everything went so well! Except for Zach being mistaken as Steve. Jumping rope?! Guess she was feeling much better!

just popping in really quick to see how things went.

So glad that surgery went well and that you were able to go home!! :yay:

Zoe is such a trooper and :worship: that she take out her own IV!

Thank you all! :grouphug:

annmarieda

01-14-2012, 03:43 PM

Announcing Her Royal Cuteness

It wasn’t long until it was time for Zoe’s appointment at BBB. I brought her dress to DTD with us with the intent that she would change once at the boutique.

I assumed the guys would not want to hang around and so planned for them to try and do Characters in Flight. Sadly, they were not able to do that since it was not running due to the weather. Instead, they were able to get in to Bongos for some food. Yes, that did make a second lunch for them.:rotfl:

Meanwhile, back at BBB we attempted to check in. They would not allow it until 5 minutes before the appointment. They had SOOO many girls they were a bit behind. We took that time to get Zoe into her dress. Then we waited.... and waited and waited some more. When I saw this, I really wished that the Christmas Belle dress had fit her.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0278.jpg

Finally it was time for Zoe to become the princess that I think we all know she is. Here are the ones I took...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0279.jpg waiting after her name was called
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0280.jpg in the chair with her fgm preparing her things.

Then the process began...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0281.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0282.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0283.jpg I thought it was funny how stiff the fgm made that strand of hair. :rotfl:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0284.jpg

Now nails...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0285.jpg

And make up...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0286.jpg

Finishing touches....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0289.jpg

Revealing to her....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0292.jpg

After her make over we went to to have her photo shoot. I took some pictures, but the ones on the photo pass are better. Someday, I hope to not only get a better camera but learn how to take good photos.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0293.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0294.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0295.jpg

Once were were done, it was time to head to WL to check in. It was easy to just hop on a bus and head there. I think we were all anxious to see where we would be staying for the next 11 nights.

We got to the lodge and checked in. We got a great room. Room 5045.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0299.jpg
It was everything I requested. 5th floor and the north wing. It was an easy walk to the elevator and then to Roaring Fork or out the door to the boat dock. Since the pool area is not far from those it was also nothing to get to the pool. It wasn’t right near the lobby though so we did have a bit of a walk to the bus stop. However, we couldn’t have been happier.

We checked with bell services and found that our luggage was ready to be delivered. We went up to our room to wait. Once the luggage was delivered, it was not long before we had a second delivery. What a thoughtful gift from a wonderful disfriend!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0298.jpg

Zoe got a second photo shoot in front of the WL tree. Oddly though, I didn’t take any pictures. I will have a post with good pp pictures once I get the cd.

Next we needed to get ready for MVMCP!

Next Chapter: A Very Rainy MVMCP!

lovethattink

01-14-2012, 03:49 PM

Wonderful update!! Such a pretty princess, and great photos!

What did the guys get to eat at Bongos?

disneydreamingdebby

01-14-2012, 04:30 PM

Yay! No overnight stay! :goodvibes I love that she was possibly jump roping in her room. :yay:

She certainly is an adorable little princess (especially before the make over!)

We've never stayed at WL. Neither dh or I have it on the to do list expect for a Christmas trip (and since we did a Christmas trip and stayed at BCV...:rotfl:)

I always hear wonderful remarks about it, and I am excited to read more. Isn't it always great when your room is in a great location?

dizneeat

01-14-2012, 04:47 PM

:worship: Princess Zoe :worship:

And here we go ...... another wonderful update! Zoe is just too cute in her dress and the photos you took are wonderful - you are a very good photographer, Ann! :thumbsup2

They really do a great job at the BBB and then to come back to the resort and finding your location is "about" what you wanted! :thumbsup2

veggiemama

01-14-2012, 05:15 PM

What a wonderful experience. Zoe looks so happy as a beautiful princess! :cutie:

I wish I had been able to do something like this when my Bethany was small. She would have loved it. Oh well, someday I'm sure I'll do it with grand children :rotfl:

oceanwave

01-14-2012, 07:18 PM

So glad to hear Zoe's surgery went well and you were able to go home the same day.

Loved the pictures of Princes Zoe! She sure does make a beautiful Princess and she looks so regal in the pictures!

I need to go and look up WL, your have perked my interest! It's one of the few resorts that I haven't looked into before.

annmarieda

01-15-2012, 12:48 AM

Wonderful update!! Such a pretty princess, and great photos!

What did the guys get to eat at Bongos?

Thanks so much. I think she is a pretty princess... although if I had known her hair was tooo long for the bun I would have had it cut before hand. It was a bit large on top her tiny head.

As for the guys... not sure. I know that they enjoyed it...

Yay! No overnight stay! :goodvibes I love that she was possibly jump roping in her room. :yay:

She certainly is an adorable little princess (especially before the make over!)

We've never stayed at WL. Neither dh or I have it on the to do list expect for a Christmas trip (and since we did a Christmas trip and stayed at BCV...:rotfl:)

I always hear wonderful remarks about it, and I am excited to read more. Isn't it always great when your room is in a great location?

I am so pleased that there was not an overnight stay. She is too I am sure since she can really play. Course, Zoe pushes herself and pushes herself until she can't go any longer...then she is a bear. :sad2:

I think Zoe is always a princess. This was the first time to bbb and I don't think it will be her last. I had always shied away from it given that the castle package (I think that is the top one) is listed as quite expensive. When I learned you could bring your own dress... well, that made it affordable and definitely something I wanted to do.

And as for WL, I struggled all year. It was suppose to be "the" resort at Christmas..and it was. However, for us... it was more like home than any other resort could have been...and that almost seemed boring. I am glad that I didn't change things around. It was wonderful and getting the room that was in such a great location was the icing on the cake. :goodvibes

:worship: Princess Zoe :worship:

And here we go ...... another wonderful update! Zoe is just too cute in her dress and the photos you took are wonderful - you are a very good photographer, Ann! :thumbsup2

They really do a great job at the BBB and then to come back to the resort and finding your location is "about" what you wanted! :thumbsup2

Thanks, Karin. I tried to take good pictures.. I actually played around with the settings as the trip went on and I think I got some half way decent ones along the way.

The day on the 11th couldn't have been more magical. It was such a nice start to the trip. :goodvibes
What a wonderful experience. Zoe looks so happy as a beautiful princess! :cutie:

I wish I had been able to do something like this when my Bethany was small. She would have loved it. Oh well, someday I'm sure I'll do it with grand children :rotfl:

I have already given Kira some of Zoe's old princess dresses since I am sure I will go with a grandchild someday. I never got to do it with Kira though, and that is kinda sad. She wasn't quite the girly girl that Zoe is... but she was definitely a special little girl. I just hope she has a daughter so we can enjoy taking her to BBB...cause I doubt a boy would be as much fun to take. ;)
So glad to hear Zoe's surgery went well and you were able to go home the same day.

Loved the pictures of Princes Zoe! She sure does make a beautiful Princess and she looks so regal in the pictures!

I need to go and look up WL, your have perked my interest! It's one of the few resorts that I haven't looked into before.

Thank you so much for the kind words.

As for WL, it is definitely worth looking into. I think if I had it to do again, I might have looked more closely at CL. Oh well...another trip some other time. :rolleyes:

annmarieda

01-15-2012, 01:55 AM

A Very Rainy MVMCP!

Originally, I had planned for us to get to MK early for MVMCP. Betsy and I had not made definitive plans, but I knew we were going to hang out a bit at the party. So as the day progressed the plan was to get in line for the dwarfs first thing. Betsy arrived much earlier than I did and so she was holding the place.

However, things did not go as we had planned. It took longer to get out of WL than we anticipated. It took longer to get on a bus from WL to MK than we planned. Ultimately, we barely got to the park before the party started. I briefly stopped to take a picture of our first view of the castle
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0301.jpg

Then we attempted to hustle to where Betsy and her group were in line for the dwarfs. We arrived to the character meeting spot just after 7pm and so we missed seeing the dwarfs with Betsy. :sad2: With Betsy now on her way, but the line still not terribly long we decided to do this first. Shortly after getting into line the weather really began to reveal itself to us. Betsy had warned me that we should bring ponchos. I didn’t do so and we spent the entire time in line with the rain drizzling down on us. Course, being from Seattle it wasn’t the end of the world but it was uncomfortable nonetheless. Due to the rain and the speed at which they were trying to get people through the line, we only got the pp picture taken so sadly I have no picture of all of us with the dwarfs. Although, I have to share (and when I get the pp pics I will likely do so again) the first pic taken by the photographer has me looking at Alex and trying to get him to participate. We have a family picture from when Zoe was one that has me giving him the same look. There I am trying to get him to smile for the camera and in doing so failing to do so myself. Irony and hypocrisy...yep, apparently I am a big subscriber. :rolleyes:

We then decided we would eat some dinner. Since we had planned to eat at Casey’s Corner, we made our way in that direction. Since there was little to no line in POTC we ducked in there. First ride of the trip and it happened to be one of my all time favorites!:woohoo:

Next, we saw there was hardly a line for the fairies so in we went. (except Alex he didn’t want to so sat outside under an awning:rolleyes:)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0305.jpg As you can see, Zoe was very impressed by him. :rotfl:

but much more impressed by her
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0306.jpg

Finally, we got to Casey’s and ordered. Steve and Alex ordered what I suppose was suppose to be Chicago dogs. Zoe and I ordered plain old regular dogs. All of us had fries. Not on the dinning plan, we did not order any dessert. It was getting pretty cold and wet by this point though so I doubt we would have wanted it. As it was, it was hard to eat our food with the rain pouring down.

Just after we found a table to sit at, the first parade began. It was raining so hard and it was so cold we just didn’t dare come out from under our umbrella to get a better view. We somewhat watched as it rained until it began to down pour. I mean, not just a bit of hard sprinkling, but such hard rain that the roof to the princess float opened up and a stream of water flowed down upon them as though a faucet had been turned on. About that time, the parade was sped up and the characters took an alternate route to get out of the rain...right in front of Casey’s Corner.:woohoo:

Not the best shot, but you get an idea of how close they came to us..

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0307.jpg

Cold and wet, it was now time for the fireworks. We moved in front of Crystal Palace. This was when out of the blue I recognized someone. It was another dismember who I had come across a bit..but only minimally connected with on Dis. She makes wonderful dresses for her daughter and so I spent a fair amount of time lurking on her thread. (just in awe of the beautiful dresses:cloud9:) So as this lady lined up in front of me, I tapped her on the back and said hello. I knew her first name and said “aren’t you ...” She was completely taken aback and I thought I offended her. (especially when throughout the trip we seemed to be in the same place at the same time and she never once said another word to me) I have since discussed it on dis with her and found that she wasn’t offended... just taken aback. In any case we stood in that spot and attempted to watch the fireworks.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0309.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0312.jpg

Next, Steve and Alex wanted to try and ride some other ride so we split up. Zoe and I went into CP for some hot chocolate apple slices and cookies. We sat and made plans with Betsy. She and her friends were up near the park entrance. So once Steve and Alex got back we made our way there.

We went in to meet Cinderella, her prince and her family. We were a large group and it was fun! I was able to get a few shots on my camera, but again... pp got much better shots.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0315.jpg The pp has a wonderful shot of this moment with just Zoe and Cinderella... I can't wait to be able to share it with you all.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0317.jpg

Then we popped over to see Mickey and Minnie. With little to no line I swear it seemed like we were in and out in no time.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0319.jpg

By this time, the rain had died down and it was time for the next parade. We found a spot and this time got a much better view of the parade. I must say, that the snow that is sprayed over main street is a neat affect and one I am glad that I can say I have seen. I am not sure if it is worth arranging and entire trip just to see, but I would to have hated to miss it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0320.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0321.jpg Does anyone else notice that Pluto seems like he should maybe be in a different holiday parade? Not sure what is up with my pictures of the parade ..but many of them were quite ghostly.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0326.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0329.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0333.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0346.jpg I love the noise these guys made while walking by.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0348.jpg

It was now getting later and Steve and Alex were getting tired. Steve was terribly wet since his back side was not completely under the umbrella when the down pour during dinner took place. The two of them wanted to return to the resort. Betsy and Zoe were not done though.

I believe we stopped first to have some more cookies and hot chocolate in Tommorowland Noodle Station. Then Betsy’s friends went off separately while we went to the tea cups. I did not ride the tea cups, but sat and watched as the two of them rode three times!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0350.jpg

After this, we parted and Zoe and I went back to WL. We had a very special breakfast the next morning that we needed to get our beauty sleep for.

Back to WL and in bed by 1:30am. What a long day!

Next Chapter: A Royal Breakfast

dizneeat

01-15-2012, 03:02 AM

lovethattink

01-15-2012, 07:40 AM

I remember that night! It was the night of our carriage ride. And your TR just got ahead of my TR!!! I need to download pics. We had quite a mix up with our carriage ride because of the rain.

It looks like Betsy and Zoe had the tea cups all to themselves! The rain was a bummer. But it's kind of cool the parade detoured right by you! Great character pics!

swwake

01-15-2012, 02:54 PM

Loving your report so far Ann. I've been out of touch, but so glad to hear that Zoe's surgery went well. How is she feeling now?

Stringbean&Wingnut

01-15-2012, 07:59 PM

I'm so glad to hear that Zoe's surgery went well!!! Her BBB makeover is adorable!! I hope she is doing well!

KatMark

01-15-2012, 08:57 PM

annmarieda

01-15-2012, 09:00 PM

Ann, so sorry it was such a washed out event!

We have been to parties when it rained cats and dogs, but that was in the summer, never at a time where the temperatures were lower!
But it looks like you made the best of it and got some fun out of it.

Can't wait to read all about your royal breakfast! :thumbsup2

We did have fun at the party. Not sure we had $50 or so fun but... I can now check that off my list.

I need to export the photos I edited for day 4 and then I can do an update. My memory on the computer has been giving me grief though...so not sure if there is space available yet.

I remember that night! It was the night of our carriage ride. And your TR just got ahead of my TR!!! I need to download pics. We had quite a mix up with our carriage ride because of the rain.

It looks like Betsy and Zoe had the tea cups all to themselves! The rain was a bummer. But it's kind of cool the parade detoured right by you! Great character pics!

Betsy and Zoe just about did. I think that is why they were able to go on it repeatedly.

The rain did suck that night. I need to hop over and read your update. I want to know how the carriage ride went!

Loving your report so far Ann. I've been out of touch, but so glad to hear that Zoe's surgery went well. How is she feeling now?

Hi Susan! Zoe is doing quite well. I am hopeful that this is a sign of how things will go in 2012.

I'm so glad to hear that Zoe's surgery went well!!! Her BBB makeover is adorable!! I hope she is doing well!

Thank you! She is doing well. Just a bit cranky from time to time...

annmarieda

01-15-2012, 09:04 PM

I am all caught up.

First and foremost, so glad things went well with Zoe's surgery and that she is doing well. I hope she continues to improve.

Zoe made an absolutely beautiful princess. :goodvibes

I am so happy that you got a room that you were quite happy with. And what wonderful goodies you got.

Sorry to hear about the rain at the party, but it looks as if you all had a great time anyway.

Thank you, I spent so much of the last couple weeks worrying what about the surgery and everything. It was so easy... and so relaxed. I am so happy. :goodvibes

We made the best of the party. I think meeting Betsy helped quite a bit. I doubt had we not that we would have seen Mickey and Cinderella... we probably would have just left.

ladytink75

01-15-2012, 09:57 PM

heaven2dc

01-15-2012, 11:23 PM

I am enjoying your TR so much! Zoe is a little doll - what a life she has had at such a young age. Loved the group pic of her and Cinderella and gang :love: Christmas time at WDW is so fun!

annmarieda

01-16-2012, 12:59 AM

Oh Ann i'm so happy to hear that Zoe did real good with this last surgery she had.

I just love the picture of her in her Princess outfit she looks so cute. And I want to thank you for posting pictures of Christmas time over there at DW I just can't wait to check it out for the Christmas holiday next year.

I am so happy with how her surgery went. Now to just get that foley out and we should be good.

As for the pics... I am glad you enjoy them. Next year... I will ooh and ahh over yours :goodvibes:goodvibes

I am enjoying your TR so much! Zoe is a little doll - what a life she has had at such a young age. Loved the group pic of her and Cinderella and gang :love: Christmas time at WDW is so fun!
:welcome: It is always so much fun to meet new people so I am glad you are here!

Thank you for your comments regarding Zoe. I think she is a doll..but I know I am biased.;)

annmarieda

01-16-2012, 01:28 AM

my hair

So I promised I would get some pictures uploaded of my new do. :rotfl: How on earth teens get picture to turn out while taking them in the mirror is a bit confusing to me. This was not an easy project. Also.. I ended up needing to do a little head tilt. Why? Well, if I didn't I kinda had a zombie look on my face. maybe that is why teens do it too? I mean, smiling for yourself is a bit odd when looking straight in the mirror. Anyway... I have since learned that I like to flip out the ends a bit and pull back the center (so as to cover my balding top) These give you an idea though... my hair was down to the middle of my back..but really really thin and stringy..so even though I am bald on top... it appears a tad thicker over all.(maybe)
And before any of you are kind enough to say "oh no, you are not balding Ann" just look at the last two and you can see better. I couldn't take the pictures from the side my part was on because of just how bad it is. Hence why swooping it back is better. ;)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_1189.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_1188.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_1183.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_1182.jpg

So there ya have it... my new do...that is really much like most of my older shorter hair cuts...

annmarieda

01-16-2012, 01:42 AM

Since I am in the middle of a narcissistic moment I thought I would share a few more pictures...

A family pic when Zoe was young
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/familypics001.jpg

Can you even recognize this chunky face?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/picsfromkirascamerajan06008.jpg

One of my absolute favorite baby pics of Zoe. I have a huge one of this framed in my stair well.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/7msitting.jpg

Although this one with her down turned mouth is cute too.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/7mbw.jpg

Our last family pic before Zoe was born.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/family04green.jpg

Ok, enough walking down memory lane. I just had these sitting in my photobucket account and was feeling nostalgic. I wish I had more pictures of all my kids scanned into the computer. 21 + years ago we didn't even own a computer...so all of the pics I have of Kira are hard copy. Thanks for letting me share. :goodvibes

Stringbean&Wingnut

01-16-2012, 05:10 AM

Your family pics are so sweet! And I love your new hairdo! It looks great!

flamestarrdust

01-16-2012, 07:31 AM

I'm glad Zoe's surgery went well! Your hair looks great! :goodvibes Zoe was an adorable baby and you have a beautiful family!

tinacaplan

01-16-2012, 08:29 AM

First of all, I'm so glad that Zoe's surgery went well. :goodvibes

Second, she made an absolutely adorable princess. I love how serious she looked while getting done up at the BBB. :rotfl:

The castle does look amazing when its all done up for Christmas. I hope I get to see it someday.

And I love seeing all the pictures of your family through the years. Its funny how technology has changed things, isn't it?

Leger13

01-16-2012, 08:37 AM

I'm very glad to hear that Zoe's surgery went well and she is doing good after words. :goodvibes

LOVING the hair cut! You look so cute!

And omg I love all of the family pictures and the baby pictures of Zoe. Alex's face in the first family picture has me cracking up :laughing:

veggiemama

01-16-2012, 10:11 AM

Thanks for the stroll Ann! Love the family pictures. The boys in your family sure are characters! :lmao: You are making me nostalgic as well... may just have to find some oldies of my kids and put them up. my son John had a habit of smiling is such a way that he looked like he was going to bite someone! I have tons of pictures of him like that :rotfl: I laugh now, but at the time I used to get so frustrated trying to get a normal smile out of him!

ladytink75

01-16-2012, 10:34 AM

Just LOVE the pictures of the family.. Zoe is so cute as a little baby

DisneyKira

01-16-2012, 10:52 AM

That black and white picture of Zoe is so funny! It makes me laugh almost as much as this picture:

http://i1131.photobucket.com/albums/m556/DisneyKira/zoeahhh.jpg
:rotfl::rotfl:

I still have that black dress. It fits me a little different now, though :lmao:

momabaarjo

01-16-2012, 11:46 AM

I am so glad things went so smoothly with Zoe! Too bad about mistaking Zach for the dad...but hmmm, does that make you a cougar? :lmao:

I had tears in my eyes for Zoes, BBB pictures! All that she has been through this year, I am so glad that she got to be a princess!

All the fun you had with Betsy...makes me :mad: that my family revolved against my plans and I did not get to meet her! Now they are telling me that they would have gone...I wished I would have pushed them the last day!

Sorry about the rain...looks like you dealt with it the best you could and did not let it ruin your fun!

Thanks for sharing the old family pictures...they are so much fun!

shocky5

01-16-2012, 12:09 PM

I love all of the pictures!! The family pictures are priceless and the one Kira posted is great! :goodvibes We like those trips down memory lane, too!

The BBB pictures of Zoe are so precious! She's a beautiful little girl and definitely, as you said, a princess!

I'm sorry it rained at your MVMCP. Can't wait to see the pp pics, as well!

LOVE the haircut and your self portraits made me smile. I don't know how the teenagers do it either (you needed to add one with the smirk/kissy face :rotfl:) but I thought you did a good job! :thumbsup2

I'm glad you got a good room at WL! I knew you were concerned all year about the resort being so much like home but it seems you were pleased with your room and location and for 11 nights, you needed to be! :goodvibes

And do I dare say it looks like the guys are having a good time, too? :thumbsup2

KatMark

01-16-2012, 12:10 PM

Ann, I LOVE the new haircut...very chic!

What wonderful nostalgic pictures...they are great and Zoe was a charmer then and still is.

lilpixiebabe101

01-16-2012, 12:19 PM

Sorry about the rain making the night not as merry as it could have been.

Love the "family" picture with Cinderella.

Like the new do! That picture I took of mine? I think I took 30 pictures trying to get that one!

I like the short flippy hair you had going on in the family portrait where Zoe is a baby! Love the chubby baby cheeks and Kira that picture is funny! One to hold on to for the senior memory pages in the yearbooks :rolleyes1

dizneeat

01-16-2012, 12:31 PM

Ann that new haircut looks super cool! It really suits you! :thumbsup2

And I have to admit I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE all the family photos and the photos of Zoe (including the one Kira posted). You have a really wonderful family! :goodvibes

swwake

01-16-2012, 01:23 PM

Ann I love, love, love the new hair! It looks so carefree and easy. And I still can't see any balding. I think you're making that up, in your modesty. :rotfl:

Love the family pics. I love seeing the young Kira - she looks so much like Zoe! And that last one of Alex is a riot!

oboedm

01-16-2012, 05:59 PM

I am here, I am here! I always enjoy your TRs... and I appreciate all the updates on Zoe! She has been in my thoughts/prayers!

annmarieda

01-17-2012, 11:38 AM

Your family pics are so sweet! And I love your new hairdo! It looks great!

awe, thanks. It is nice to know that my evil little chickens could look sweet. ;)

I'm glad Zoe's surgery went well! Your hair looks great! :goodvibes Zoe was an adorable baby and you have a beautiful family!

Thank you! Zoe was a fun baby. I think that helps with her "adorable" factor. She was always just so happy.

First of all, I'm so glad that Zoe's surgery went well. :goodvibes

Second, she made an absolutely adorable princess. I love how serious she looked while getting done up at the BBB. :rotfl:

The castle does look amazing when its all done up for Christmas. I hope I get to see it someday.

And I love seeing all the pictures of your family through the years. Its funny how technology has changed things, isn't it?

While the crowds were a bit much for me at times, the castle like that is something to be seen. Absolutely spectacular!!!

It is funny how technology changes. I think by the time my kids are raising their kids...it will be shocking!

I'm very glad to hear that Zoe's surgery went well and she is doing good after words. :goodvibes

LOVING the hair cut! You look so cute!

And omg I love all of the family pictures and the baby pictures of Zoe. Alex's face in the first family picture has me cracking up :laughing:

Alex is our face maker. Always has been.... :goodvibes

Thank you for your kind words regarding Zoe and my hair.

Thanks for the stroll Ann! Love the family pictures. The boys in your family sure are characters! :lmao: You are making me nostalgic as well... may just have to find some oldies of my kids and put them up. my son John had a habit of smiling is such a way that he looked like he was going to bite someone! I have tons of pictures of him like that :rotfl: I laugh now, but at the time I used to get so frustrated trying to get a normal smile out of him!

I love old pics. It is always so fun to look back and see where you were or what things were like. I hate to point out... but if you notice Zach didn't use to be the slim strong solider that he is today. You are correct...both my boys are characters. Actually...all my kids are...just in different ways. You should definitely dig up some old pics and share them! I know I would love to see them. :goodvibes

Just LOVE the pictures of the family.. Zoe is so cute as a little baby
Thank you.:goodvibes

That black and white picture of Zoe is so funny! It makes me laugh almost as much as this picture:

http://i1131.photobucket.com/albums/m556/DisneyKira/zoeahhh.jpg
:rotfl::rotfl:

I still have that black dress. It fits me a little different now, though :lmao:

That is also a favorite pic of mine. I can't see it without laughing.:rotfl:
I am so glad things went so smoothly with Zoe! Too bad about mistaking Zach for the dad...but hmmm, does that make you a cougar? :lmao:

I had tears in my eyes for Zoes, BBB pictures! All that she has been through this year, I am so glad that she got to be a princess!

All the fun you had with Betsy...makes me :mad: that my family revolved against my plans and I did not get to meet her! Now they are telling me that they would have gone...I wished I would have pushed them the last day!

Sorry about the rain...looks like you dealt with it the best you could and did not let it ruin your fun!

Thanks for sharing the old family pictures...they are so much fun!

The issues with Zach being mistaken for dad or my husband happen all the time. Drives me nuts. I guess when I still get carded to buy alcohol.. I look way younger than I am. Since he is balding...he looks older than he is. Still..it is weird and embarrassing for everyone.

I had a lot of fun with Betsy in the little amount of time we had together. If all goes well, I hope to be able to take a trip with her this fall. She knows how to have fun! Not that my guys didn't... but she and Kira are definitely full of love for Disney.

And as for Zoe and BBB, it was an experience for sure!!! The girls all just beam when this is done. I regret never taken her before now.

I love all of the pictures!! The family pictures are priceless and the one Kira posted is great! :goodvibes We like those trips down memory lane, too!

The BBB pictures of Zoe are so precious! She's a beautiful little girl and definitely, as you said, a princess!

I'm sorry it rained at your MVMCP. Can't wait to see the pp pics, as well!

LOVE the haircut and your self portraits made me smile. I don't know how the teenagers do it either (you needed to add one with the smirk/kissy face :rotfl:) but I thought you did a good job! :thumbsup2

I'm glad you got a good room at WL! I knew you were concerned all year about the resort being so much like home but it seems you were pleased with your room and location and for 11 nights, you needed to be! :goodvibes

And do I dare say it looks like the guys are having a good time, too? :thumbsup2

They guys did have a good time. In fact, I dare say they had a better time than I did. However, I will get to all of that in the weeks to come. (yes, weeks...I figure this is going to take me several months to complete this report and now I seem to be falling a bit behind in updates)

The room was awesome and all it took was walking in that lobby and all my concerns I had throughout the year were gone.:cloud9:

Kissy face? :rotfl2: Good grief. What is up with that pose? yeah... no. I just don't photograph well... so no kissy face.

annmarieda

01-17-2012, 11:38 AM

Ann, I LOVE the new haircut...very chic!

What wonderful nostalgic pictures...they are great and Zoe was a charmer then and still is.

:hug: thank you.

Sorry about the rain making the night not as merry as it could have been.

Love the "family" picture with Cinderella.

Like the new do! That picture I took of mine? I think I took 30 pictures trying to get that one!

I like the short flippy hair you had going on in the family portrait where Zoe is a baby! Love the chubby baby cheeks and Kira that picture is funny! One to hold on to for the senior memory pages in the yearbooks :rolleyes1

The rain definitely didn't help us on that night. I think it being our first time on the trip making it into a park also made it a bit chaotic. I had no plans for the party so that also contributed (although as my TR continues on you will see I had to completely throw out my plans)

It is pretty hard to get a self taken photo.. oh well..done and I won't do it again for a while. ;)

Ann that new haircut looks super cool! It really suits you! :thumbsup2

And I have to admit I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE all the family photos and the photos of Zoe (including the one Kira posted). You have a really wonderful family! :goodvibes

Thank you so much. Some of those photos really brighten my day. It is nice to take a peak at them every now and again.

Ann I love, love, love the new hair! It looks so carefree and easy. And I still can't see any balding. I think you're making that up, in your modesty. :rotfl:

Love the family pics. I love seeing the young Kira - she looks so much like Zoe! And that last one of Alex is a riot!

:rotfl: thanks, but seriously..the top of my head is very very visible. Poor Kira never developed a sense of "sheltering someones feelings" She tends to say what she means..means what she says... Anyway.. when she first saw my hair cut she didn't say anything. I had to ask her what she thought. She just said she was waiting for me to complain about it. When I told her I didn't dislike it, she just mentioned how she thought I would because of how noticeable my balding is. Well, not a lot I can do about it..so I might as well be happy with the cut. (the way I look at it)

I am here, I am here! I always enjoy your TRs... and I appreciate all the updates on Zoe! She has been in my thoughts/prayers!

It is so good to hear from you! It has been a while.:goodvibes

lovethattink

01-17-2012, 12:52 PM

Wonderful family pics!!

Love the new do. Yours is a little longer than mine now.

ladytink75

01-17-2012, 02:40 PM

So Ann how bad was the snow you guys got. I heard Whidbey Island got hit pretty good at least where I use to live. I think they got hit with six inches so far and then another 10 inches is on the way. Man what I wouldn't do to be in that snow right now.

Also I wanted to let you know that I think I might be coming to PNW in like late June if I can find a good flight out of here. I have some things that I need to take care of that pertains to my house on the Island. If I do come out that way I will let you know

oceanwave

01-17-2012, 08:31 PM

Love, love, love the new hair cut!! It looks fantastic!

The old family photos are great. Always fun taking a trip down memory lane.
The picture of Zoe that Kira posted is great, that expression is priceless!

annmarieda

01-17-2012, 08:39 PM

Wonderful family pics!!

Love the new do. Yours is a little longer than mine now.

Thanks so much...

So did you post a pic of your new do?

So Ann how bad was the snow you guys got. I heard Whidbey Island got hit pretty good at least where I use to live. I think they got hit with six inches so far and then another 10 inches is on the way. Man what I wouldn't do to be in that snow right now.

Also I wanted to let you know that I think I might be coming to PNW in like late June if I can find a good flight out of here. I have some things that I need to take care of that pertains to my house on the Island. If I do come out that way I will let you know

We got hit harder than a lot of areas... and the worst it on its way still. This morning I think we had about 6 inches on the ground. Much of that stayed around, but got slushy. Now there are mounds of ice on the street. Not great...

If you come to the PNW, let me know!!! That would be lots of fun to set aside a bit of time to meet up. :goodvibes
Love, love, love the new hair cut!! It looks fantastic!

The old family photos are great. Always fun taking a trip down memory lane.
The picture of Zoe that Kira posted is great, that expression is priceless!

Thank you. I am surprised by how much I love the cut. I was worried that not being able to just pony it and go would make me :headache: It is way easier to deal with than I anticipated.

And the pic of Zoe... :rotfl2: It cracks me up every time. Her expression is priceless, I totally agree :thumbsup2

annmarieda

01-17-2012, 11:37 PM

A Royal Breakfast

When the park hours changed, I found myself frustrated that we would no longer have an early (before rd) ADR to CP. Given that Betsy would also be in MK on the morning of the 12th, she began searching for an alternative that maybe both of us could do together. I too looked for a change, but never really found anything.

So imagine my surprise when at the airport it was decided that we would go to CRT!!! :woohoo: We had never been there. Since the boys did not want to go, it seemed perfect. Another girls only activity!!

One thing that needs to be mentioned here and to keep in mind for the next few days is that apparently there was a new dispatcher for the Disney buses. Just keep that in mind when I make reference to a lack of reliability of the buses during the first few days.

So Zoe and I got ready and went down to the bus stop. We got down in what I thought would be ample time to catch the bus and make it to MK and meet up with Betsy and her friend Shelly. We sat and sat at the stop waiting. It wasn’t long before I knew we were going to be late. Betsy tolerated it all great. I felt bad. She and Shelly were waiting for us at the castle while we hustled down Main Street once we actually made it to MK.

I did snap this wonderful shot as we ran down toward the castle.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0352.jpg

Once we got into the castle, we waited in a short line for Cinderella. Zoe was the only one to go up and the picture that the photographer took was priceless. Strange that the only picture I got was this..
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0353.jpg

After meeting Cinderella, we sat for a moment to wait for Betsy’s name to be called. Then we were allowed to go up the many many stairs to the dinning hall.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0354.jpg
Where we were seated? At a window!!!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0355.jpg

The first thing to come was drinks, fruit and pastries. Zoe loved the cinnamon roll.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0356.jpg

After we had a bit to nibble then came our main meal. Zoe had the kids meal; a basic breakfast. Betsy and Shelley also had the traditional breakfast.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0359.jpg
I had the stuffed french toast which was amazing..only, I wouldn’t have the chocolate on top. It seemed out of place. The multigrain bread along with strawberries and sauce..not to mention the filling. :cloud9:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0358.jpg

Throughout breakfast, Zoe was able to meet

Snow White
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0360.jpg
Aurora
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0361.jpg
Ariel
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0362.jpg
and her favorite, Belle.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0363.jpg
The extras during the meal made it all the more special. Zoe was brought a special wand and Betsy asked where the rest of our wands were. I was secretly glad she did. I mean, could I have lived without one? Yes. Was I thrilled to get one? YES! :yay: Then the girls made their wishes and opened their eyes to see the ceiling lit up with twinkling lights.

When it was time to go, we exited the castle to find that it was raining..hard. So we darted over to the carousel and road it together.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0364.jpg
That is when Betsy snapped the great photo of the two of us. Even though it isn’t a great picture of me, I am so glad she got one of the two of us.

From there, we darted in and out of shops as we made our way down main street. I look forward to sharing a photo pass picture of Zoe with a map. We did not prompt a photographer to take her picture. We were all chatting and Zoe was standing off to the side trying to read the map. We look over and there is a photographer shooting pictures of her. They turned out so cute!

We said our good byes. Then with a tree in hand to bring back to our room (thanks to Betsy) we went back to WL to meet the guys.

Once back to WL, we found that the guys were just finishing breakfast at Roaring Fork so we met them there and then went all together back to the room. Once there, I did a bit of decorating and we all got ready to head to MK.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0365.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0366.jpg

Next Chapter: Throwing Out the Ridemax Plans and Meandering through MK (which also could have been the title to this entire TR ;))

ladytink75

01-17-2012, 11:40 PM

Stringbean&Wingnut

01-18-2012, 05:05 AM

I've never eaten in the castle, but it looks like a gorgeous place to have breakfast! And how awesome that Betsy scored you all magic wands!

That stinks about all the rain on your trip though! Hopefully things dried out soon!

tankgirl427

01-18-2012, 08:27 AM

LOL that was Shelly who asked for the wands. She was like what about the big kids. I was excited to get a wand too!

Once we all finish editing the photos I can finally place that order. We really didn't need to scan both pp cards MVMCP night sicne now we have duplicates. :lmao:

All I coudl think at CRT after enjyoing the view was that there were not enough cinnamon rolls since I don't like pastries and that Aurora needed to size up her dress and Belle was looking a little run down. But you'll have to wait for my photos to understand.

annmarieda

01-18-2012, 12:17 PM

From the models that I am seeing for the weather the worse is still to come. If you have to head out be careful I know those drivers out there can not drive pretty crazy even with all the snow out on the roads.

I sure will keep you informed, yes it will be great to get together since we were not able to do it over Christmas break.

Yep, the storm is coming through now. It is pretty white out there...:rolleyes:

I've never eaten in the castle, but it looks like a gorgeous place to have breakfast! And how awesome that Betsy scored you all magic wands!

That stinks about all the rain on your trip though! Hopefully things dried out soon!

I stand corrected in regards to Betsy doing the scoring. However..it was a sore nonetheless! The castle was beautiful.:goodvibes

As for the rain... at least it wasn't terribly cold. So it could have been worse.

LOL that was Shelly who asked for the wands. She was like what about the big kids. I was excited to get a wand too!

Once we all finish editing the photos I can finally place that order. We really didn't need to scan both pp cards MVMCP night sicne now we have duplicates. :lmao:

All I coudl think at CRT after enjyoing the view was that there were not enough cinnamon rolls since I don't like pastries and that Aurora needed to size up her dress and Belle was looking a little run down. But you'll have to wait for my photos to understand.

I thought it was you who asked for the wand! :rotfl:

Yeah... I am sorry...just more for you to have to sort through. What are we up to? Over 2k, right?

And I do know what you mean about Belle... she was looking a bit run down.

KatMark

01-18-2012, 12:38 PM

swwake

01-18-2012, 12:39 PM

I love this update! Can't believe Zoe's hair stayed the same from the day before!

Question - why didn't y'all take the boat to MK? We have used it a few times and it's pretty quick.

Ok, maybe I'm crazy, but were Ariel and Aurora ever in the room at the same time? Because I think they look like the same girl. Or at least twins. Look at their chins and their smiles. Maybe that's why Aurora's dress didn't fit so well (as Betsy mentioned).

What a great table, and the french toast looks awesome!

I remember seeing the pic from the carousel and going - wait - is that Ann? I had no idea y'all would be together that morning.

disneydreamingdebby

01-18-2012, 05:14 PM

Another wonderful girls' outing! Yay!

I can't wait to see the photopass pictures!

I commented out loud to dh about Belle looking older. He said, "Well her movie did come out a long time ago." :rotfl2: He cracks me up.

momabaarjo

01-18-2012, 05:41 PM

I so love the girls trip to CRT...I wanna girls only trip! What a perfect place for Zoe...I know that table you sat at...on my business trip we set to the left of that one...dead center looking straight at Fantasyland! You guys had an awesome view...can't wait to show you where we set when we went this trip...hint I see my table in your picture. Funny about the wands when I went a couple of years ago (just me and my boss) they gave us the wands too (what a pain they were the rest of the day carrying around)...wait til my TR to find out about the boy's gift....GRRRRR! I have to agree that our Aurora too does not have a princess figure (any my son noticed :scared1:).

:love:The room decorations!

annmarieda

01-18-2012, 07:02 PM

Great update, Ann. And how wonderful to have a "girls only" outing again on the trip. We've never eaten at the Castle, but I know people pray for those window seats.

So where is this picture you talk of with you and Zoe? I don't see it here.

Love the Christmas decorations in your room.

And leave it to Betsy to ask for a wand. ;)

I have to laugh at your comment.." a girl's only outing again" :rotfl: Um, much of the trip was a girls only outing.

The picture of Zoe and I? Do you mean when I was talking about the picture taken on the carousel? That was of Betsy and I...and she posted it to fb. Not sure if it is or will be on her TR.

I guess it wasn't Betsy who asked for the wands, but rather her friend Shelly. :scratchin I am always amazed how I can remember things my own little way. :rolleyes:

I love this update! Can't believe Zoe's hair stayed the same from the day before!

I was kinda amazed too. However, if I had been a bit more proactive it would have lasted maybe another day. It was sprayed to death!
the same from the day before!

Question - why didn't y'all take the boat to MK? We have used it a few times and it's pretty quick.

That was Betsy's suggestion too. We did end up using it... and I will get to it. I just was not aware of exactly where it was located at this point in our trip. this was only our first morning and I was going it alone with Zoe. I knew where the buses were..so we went that route.

IOk, maybe I'm crazy, but were Ariel and Aurora ever in the room at the same time? Because I think they look like the same girl. Or at least twins. Look at their chins and their smiles. Maybe that's why Aurora's dress didn't fit so well (as Betsy mentioned).

I don't think they are the same person, but I can see a resemblance.

IWhat a great table, and the french toast looks awesome!

it was an awesome table and the french toast was yummy... a bit sweet... but yummy!!

II remember seeing the pic from the carousel and going - wait - is that Ann? I had no idea y'all would be together that morning.

Yep... and that was the only one taken of just the two of us. It was a nice morning. Something about spending time with people who really are anxious to be there is special.

Another wonderful girls' outing! Yay!

I can't wait to see the photopass pictures!

I commented out loud to dh about Belle looking older. He said, "Well her movie did come out a long time ago." :rotfl2: He cracks me up.

She did look a bit older to me. She is definitely not a 20 something princess...

annmarieda

01-18-2012, 07:46 PM

oboedm

01-18-2012, 08:00 PM

Great update! I have never been to CRT in the morning, only at night. It would be wonderful to go in the morning with all the light! I really NEED that french toast! Were the crowds pretty low during the week you went?

Your comment about the buses makes me worried.... can't wait to hear more!... I think!

oceanwave

01-18-2012, 08:30 PM

Thats awesome you guys went to CRT and got a window seat! I love that place! We managed to get a last minute breakfast ressie in September. I was travelling with only my husband so he was dragged along. He thought I was out of my mind and he went to make me happy. But not sure who enjoyed it more, me or him! And when they gave him his sword he was in heaven :lmao: So glad Shelly spoke up about your wands, I think everyone should be treated as Princesses and Princes! I had to look back at our pictures, and checked our stuffed french toast (I agree they are amazing!) and it didn't have chocolate but some form of whipped cream. Yummy!!! Think its on the todo list for next time.

Love the xmas tree! Can't wait to hear more.

veggiemama

01-18-2012, 09:04 PM

I just realized that we were at MK the same day as you! Wish I had been able to be more on the boards before I left, we might have been able to have met. :goodvibes

I haven't gotten to our MK day yet on my TR (that's the next day I will do) But I remember the rain well! Didn't stop us though... It wasn't snow, it wasn't cold so we were good to go! :rotfl:

I have never been to CRT but it looks like a nice place to go... it's on my wish list for the next trip.

And I too am in awe that Zoe's hairstyle held up that well.... wish I could get my hair to 'stay' in a style for more than an hour.... even using a bottle of hairspray my hair still falls! :lmao:

tinacaplan

01-18-2012, 09:16 PM

Breakfast at the castle looked like so much fun. I briefly considered dinner there for my April girls trip, but I decided against it.

Your decorations are so cute!

Can't wait to hear about the rest of your MK day.

annmarieda

01-19-2012, 02:18 AM

Throwing Out the Ridemax Plans and Meandering through MK

After we were all ready to go to the park we made our way to the boat launch. Amazingly it was just down stairs from us and then down the ramp. Super easy and I dare say quicker to get to than the bus stops. I believe this was the day that we rode along with a very nice family with a very anxious little boy. They seemed to be a bit uneasy of if we would be offended by his behavior. Once I assured them that we had 4 kids and have seen many a fit and more intense behavior than this little guy was putting forth, they seemed to relax with him more and let him do what ever it was he wanted to do. I am not going to judge, but I wonder if that isn’t kinda what has got him to the point he is now. :rolleyes1 In any case, it was a very nice ride with them over to MK.

When the boat arrived at MK, we bit farewell to the family of three we just met (never to see them again the entire trip) Finally, we were (as a family) going to walk into MK! We were way off schedule for my beloved ridemax plans though so I knew we were going to have to wing it a bit. (let it be known that I had to throw out all the ridemax plans. Well, all but one day. So lets just assume from now on we are winging it... totally off schedule... with no itinerary. All I can say is why did I plan out so meticulously for a year? :rotfl:)

As we walked down Main Street, it was clear that a parade was going on. It was the Move It! Shake It! Celebrate It! Street Party. We stopped for a bit to watch, but everyone was a bit anxious to get out of the crowd. (a crowd that as it turns out would be among the lighter ones on our trip)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0369.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0368.jpg

So we decided to make our way through Adventureland. After all, it was on my plan for the day and even if we were off schedule we should try to do the things I had hoped to do, right? Well first there was no stopping for Aladdin's Magic Carpets. :sad2: Instead, we went to the Tikki Room since a new show would be starting in a short amount of time. Alex needed a restroom though, so we got in line and told him to hurry. All the while though, I was thinking “really, didn’t we just come from the hotel?” “Now, you need restroom?” We waited and waited. I took a picture or two
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0370.jpg and then it was time to enter the theater.

Where was Alex? We tried to go in and find a seat that would be easy enough for him to get to us should he actually make it on time. Thankfully, just before the doors were to be shut he came through and managed to find us and sit down with us to watch the show.

The Tikki Room has recently gone through a transformation back to its “previous glory” I must say I appreciate it that way. I never quite got into the Eago and Zazu hosts.

Now it was time for some lunch. I had never got the guys (specifically Steve) to eat at CHH since he doesn’t like fried food. I begged and pleaded for it this time. I assured him that there would be something he would like. Thankfully, I was right. He got the lobster roll with yogurt for dessert.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0375.jpg
I got the tuna sandwich with the apple pie. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0372.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0374.jpg
Alex got the shrimp basket and apple pie. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0371.jpg
Zoe got the fish basket with yogurt. Now if you all remember from my PTR, I upgraded Zoe to a Disney adult so that she could eat what ever she wanted on the plan. This also meant that she could get large drinks if she so chose. So with this meal, she wanted a large orange pop. Keep this in mind.

Once we had our order, I let everyone know it was important to me that we sit upstairs. So Alex went ahead of us to try and find a suitable table. Alex found us the best table. It was a corner window seat that looked out toward HM. It was perfect! :woohoo: We all sat and ate. I think Steve and I were far more impressed with our food than Zoe or Alex as the two of them became a bit fidgety. We were all so tired from the late night and early morning, but we all woke up very quickly when Zoe fumbled her drink. Yes, it was not only in slow motion but happened so fast. The scene was this; Steve and I jumping up to help assist Alex since he was sitting nearest her. Alex grasping aimlessly into the air. Zoe moving to the side and reaching down quickly. All of this movement happening with some sharp sounds coming from each of us and as quickly as it all began it was over. And how did we fair? Well, remember Zoe reaching down? Well, as everything started to slosh out of her large cup she managed (some how) to catch the cup and catch most of the drink back into it. There on the seat next to her sat her very large orange drink with minimal amounts of liquid around her. Most that spilled went onto the table. It was strange. However, she did have bright orange pop on her blue Cinderella dress requiring her to change.

We got her out of the dress and decided our next stop would be HM. We made it through half the line when Zoe had some issue and out of line we went. Because of this, we felt it would be helpful to get her a GAC. This required running to the front of the park.

After we got the GAC, we went back to HM. We decided to do the graveyard side so the kids could play around a bit. Zoe loved to try and mimic characters and Alex just liked to mess around with her.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0376.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0377.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0378.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0380.jpg

Finally we got to ride HM! Wouldn’t you know it though, towards the end of the ride there was some sort of malfunction and some of the new features were not working. Oh well, at this point I didn’t know what I was missing.:rolleyes:

Now I had to use the restroom. I was beginning to feel as though our bathroom breaks really should be more coordinated. However, when you gotta go... :rotfl:

So while I took care of my needs everyone else went to IASM and used the GAC to get in. This was the only time the GAC was used and so I have no idea on how well it worked vs. just the regular line. Steve was impressed though.

I had promised afternoon breaks to Steve and it was now afternoon (but gee, somehow does the need for an afternoon break still count when you don’t get to the park until the afternoon?) So it was now time to head out of the park. We made our way out via the same route we went in and so we passed by Aloha Isle. Well, surly that meant we had to get one of these
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/annmarieda/December%202011%20Trip/IMG_0392.jpg
So we each grabbed one and sat down to enjoy. Sadly, they were actually very hard to finish since they were so sweet. We did our best though.

We continued on our way out of the park and took the boat back to WL.

Next Chapter: Fire and Roasted Meat

Stringbean&Wingnut

01-19-2012, 05:12 AM

swwake

01-19-2012, 08:28 AM

that apple pie thing looks good! What a save on the orange drink, but sorry Zoe had to change from her dress.

The GAC card sounds like a good idea for Zoe. I guess you didn't need it after IASW?

I do love the new HM queue. The pics of Alex and Zoe are priceless!

I'm with you - I stopped trying to do any touring plans because my family always throws them out the window.

Leger13

01-19-2012, 10:14 AM

Zoe looks so cute as Cindy!

Sorry y'all had so many mishaps though and potty breaks! It's the worst spilling a huge drink all over the place. Love the pics of Zoe and Alex at HM. Glad y'all finally got to ride. I can't wait to see the Tiki Birds in all their original glory but I'm not sure how my Alex would do with the loud stuff at the end. :confused3

Woth2982

01-19-2012, 11:38 AM

Loving the trip report so far! The princess makeover came out really great! I can't belive how well it stayed over night too! Your room at the Wilderness lodge looks great with all the Christmas decorations! Cannot wait to read some more!

shocky5

01-19-2012, 11:40 AM

:rotfl2: I had the same thoughts about Belle and Aurora!

Good save on the orange drink, Zoe! Sorry about the dress though!

I'm so proud of Alex wearing a Perry t-shirt! We had fun wearing Disney attire, too, and wouldn't you know Miss Erin still wears her t-shirts and pullover? I thought for sure by now they'd be buried in her drawers but maybe the Disney magic has hit her... :goodvibes

annmarieda

01-19-2012, 12:46 PM

Isn't the new HM queue super-awesome? I love all of the new features!

I've always wanted to go to CHH, good job convincing everyone to eat there! :thumbsup2 Your food looks great! Too bad that Zoe got soda on her dress though (it always has to be the brightest color that gets spilled, right? :laughing:).

I love the queue! Super neat addition. I wondered how they would make something like that work while still allowing people to move forward in the line. It was very orderly...no pushing or shoving... no one jumped a head in line. I was impressed.

I loved my sandwich at CHH. I must say though, the one at WL is a bit better. I have always loved tuna sandwiches!!

that apple pie thing looks good! What a save on the orange drink, but sorry Zoe had to change from her dress.

The GAC card sounds like a good idea for Zoe. I guess you didn't need it after IASW?

I do love the new HM queue. The pics of Alex and Zoe are priceless!

I'm with you - I stopped trying to do any touring plans because my family always throws them out the window.

Honestly, I kinda forgot that we got one. Steve had it with him and he wasn't always with us. I am sure it helps out much... I mean, she doesn't need to sit all the time and she doesn't have issues with loud noises. She just has potty issues and really at the time shouldn't have been bumped too much in line. I have a story to share for that... but it will have to wait till I get to that point in the TR.:rolleyes:

Zoe looks so cute as Cindy!

Sorry y'all had so many mishaps though and potty breaks! It's the worst spilling a huge drink all over the place. Love the pics of Zoe and Alex at HM. Glad y'all finally got to ride. I can't wait to see the Tiki Birds in all their original glory but I'm not sure how my Alex would do with the loud stuff at the end. :confused3

I love the Tikki room and the birds... and potty breaks just are part of our life now.

Loving the trip report so far! The princess makeover came out really great! I can't belive how well it stayed over night too! Your room at the Wilderness lodge looks great with all the Christmas decorations! Cannot wait to read some more!

Thanks, I think if/when she does it again her hair has to be shorter. I think had it been a bit shorter it would have stayed longer more easily. There was just so much hair up in that bun it was weighing it down.
:rotfl2: I had the same thoughts about Belle and Aurora!

Good save on the orange drink, Zoe! Sorry about the dress though!

I'm so proud of Alex wearing a Perry t-shirt! We had fun wearing Disney attire, too, and wouldn't you know Miss Erin still wears her t-shirts and pullover? I thought for sure by now they'd be buried in her drawers but maybe the Disney magic has hit her... :goodvibes

I really didn't notice until I saw the pics that Aurora and Belle were a bit off. At the time it was just amazing to see the princesses.:cloud9:

I love to wear disney attire in the parks.... normally I don't wear it much at home. This year though, I keep reaching for it in my closet. I must not want to be at work...:rolleyes:

momabaarjo

01-19-2012, 05:00 PM

I predicted right when you said large orange drink what was going to happen...:scared1: but I figured it would all end up on Steve! So glad that it was not a complete diaster!

I :love: the picture of Zoe and Alex with the busts!

Bathroom breaks and ridemax do not mix I have come to learn! :rotfl:

Funny how all routes of MK have to go in front of Aloha Isles! :thumbsup2

Joyciemc

01-19-2012, 09:42 PM

Yikes, Ann! Stay safe and I hope the weather improves for you!!

The lobster roll at CHH looks soo good! That must be new, right? I'm sure I would have ordered it if I saw it on the menu...

Editing: weirdly, my reply is before your post!

annmarieda

01-19-2012, 09:42 PM

I predicted right when you said large orange drink what was going to happen...:scared1: but I figured it would all end up on Steve! So glad that it was not a complete disaster!

I :love: the picture of Zoe and Alex with the busts!

Bathroom breaks and ridemax do not mix I have come to learn! :rotfl:

Funny how all routes of MK have to go in front of Aloha Isles! :thumbsup2

Thanks. Zoe was trying to be all serious. :rotfl:

Ya know, we never had trouble with bathroom breaks and ridemax before, but I wonder if between the extra crowds and the guys not getting out the door early...if it just didn't work with the plans I made.

annmarieda

01-19-2012, 09:51 PM

Our area has been hit pretty hard by some storms over the last few days. Snow, freezing rain, ice storm... looks like a wind storm is imminent.

Today was quite unnerving. Living in the foothills, we get power outages all the time so when our power was out for a good chunk of the day that didn't trouble me too much. What did... seeing HUGE trees in neighboring yards come down Hearing the cracking of ice and branches as they came crashing down. Even the trees I didn't see come down, I could hear. We were just hunkering in for a few days, since the reports from the electric co. were that it would be days before we would regain power. Guess what? The power came back on.:woohoo:

So now we are preparing for the next storm and hopefully we will not lose power again... but if you don't hear from me you will all know why.:rolleyes:

ladytink75

01-19-2012, 10:38 PM

annmarieda

01-20-2012, 01:29 AM

Oh Ann I miss that weather so bad I wish I was there in WA right now.. My friends have 7 inches of snow still on their lawn. It seems the next part of the storm is coming in soon.

I am enjoying reading all the cool updates that you have been posting..

I have lived in WA all my life and in WWA for the last 16. I have never seen it this bad. So... don't miss what we have going on... and the snow isn't snow. layer of ice... then layer of snow... the THICK layer of ice... then a layer of snow and finally more ice.

I am so worried right now. If any of you also follow Kira's PTR, you saw pictures of the tree that came down on the building next to hers. Well, tonight and entire response team. (police, fire, first aid and something esle..) has began evacuating. In the building that the tree came down on... people were taken by ambulance to the hospital. Then in Kira's building, the apartments closest to the other building are being evacuate. There are high levels of carbon monoxide.

So... as we brace for the next storm, I am feeling blessed to be in a warmly lit house that has internet (Kira still doesn't have internet or cable) I am not sure what the next few days will bring.:worried:

Stringbean&Wingnut

01-20-2012, 05:17 AM

I'll definitely be sending good weather vibes your way! I hope that the next storm takes it easy on you guys! It's definitely scary when the trees are coming down! Good luck to you guys! :goodvibes

veggiemama

01-20-2012, 09:10 AM

First off Ann, STAY SAFE! Storms like that are scary. Will Kira come and stay with you for a few days? I'm not getting the snow like you but our cold is still COLD BRrrrr. -43 this morning! and ICY! So far we are all safe but I've been driving the kids back and forth to school even though it is only a block away :goodvibes

I finally know what a Dole whip is! :rotfl:

Love the pictures at HM. I completely forgot about that line ... I'll have to remember for next time. :)

Ah the orange pop... been there, done that! And isn't it almost always on the 'pretty' dress that it spills? :confused3:rotfl:

veggiemama

01-20-2012, 09:21 AM

Ok, how many times did I post this one! LOL

veggiemama

01-20-2012, 09:35 AM

oops, double post. Silly Computer!

shocky5

01-20-2012, 10:38 AM

Thinking about you all and your yucky weather! Hope all is still okay and Kira and Josh are doing alright with their evacuation mess, etc. :confused3

It's so strange... we've had one light flurry here in our part of OK (we were actually on our trip then) and then a 1 inch snow last week which was 'nothing.' Usually by now, we've had at least one good one... I probably just jinxed us but this winter weather has been pretty much non-existent in NE OK which is just WEIRD! :rolleyes:

dizneeat

01-20-2012, 11:03 AM

Ann, I am sorry I didn't post as much as I would have wanted over the last week, but (school)life has been crazy and it took away a lot of my DIStime.

First of - I hope you stay safe during the storm and never lose power. It must be pretty rough if you can hear the trees snap! :scared1:

You must be worried about Kira too, with the evacuation and everythink caked in ice - even though her antenna ball looked cute!
I'll send lots of warm thought, so the storm blows over quickly! :hug:

I loved all the updates you did. Your breakfast at Cindy's place looked good - I am thinking of doing that during our summer trip. :thumbsup2

vikkil70

01-20-2012, 02:32 PM

Hi Ann,

I am very late to the party but am finally caught up on your TR. I was following along with your PTR when life got crazy. After 3 years of trying we finally sold our house, and they wanted to close in 4 weeks. So between finding a rental in our area and now househunting in Virginia, on top of regular craziness I was off the DIS for about 6 months.
I love your TR so far. Your pics are great and Zoe is such a pretty princess, loved her BBB makeover. I am also sorry to hear Zoe needed surgery but that it went well.
We are still hoping to get our first Dec trip in this year so I'm reading a few TR to get an idea of what we are in for. DH wants us to wait til after we close on a new house though before we book to make sure the money is there. We should be ok though, fingers crossed.
Can't wait to read more and hope you made out ok with the second storm. We are hopefully getting some snow in PA tonight, we have not had any since the weird storm in Oct.

disneydreamingdebby

01-20-2012, 06:18 PM

Dh said the other day that we've never been to CHH. I said actually, we ate our food there- just not theirs...(We had counter service credits ready to expire, so we picked up sandwiches at Boardwalk Bakery. We took them to MK the next day, and ate upstairs in AC at CHH.)

After seeing your pics, I think we will have to really eat there.

We enjoy the days that we go with the flow...

tinacaplan

01-20-2012, 09:40 PM

I'm so sorry you're having such terrible weather out there. Ice storms are no joke. Neither is losing your power for an extended period of time. Hope that you and Kira doing well. :goodvibes

annmarieda

01-21-2012, 04:02 PM

I'll definitely be sending good weather vibes your way! I hope that the next storm takes it easy on you guys! It's definitely scary when the trees are coming down! Good luck to you guys! :goodvibes

Thanks so much. It was a crazy few days. It looks like a war zone outside..tree and branches everywhere. I knew the wind storm wouldn't cause us much trouble where we are. In Seattle, maybe... but they never get winds like we do. We are in our own little weird weather pocket and usually once a year get hurricane force winds. Course, I don't think they came in 2011...so we may be due. :rolleyes:

First off Ann, STAY SAFE! Storms like that are scary. Will Kira come and stay with you for a few days? I'm not getting the snow like you but our cold is still COLD BRrrrr. -43 this morning! and ICY! So far we are all safe but I've been driving the kids back and forth to school even though it is only a block away :goodvibes

I finally know what a Dole whip is! :rotfl:

Love the pictures at HM. I completely forgot about that line ... I'll have to remember for next time. :)

Ah the orange pop... been there, done that! And isn't it almost always on the 'pretty' dress that it spills? :confused3:rotfl:
Kira did not come stay, but did come to play. She didn't have internet or cable service as of yesterday so she came here to use mine.

Good grief!! -43?! :scared1:

Dole whips are super good... but sweet.

The line at HM was super fun. I think it gave the kids something "new" to do.

As for the dress, ya know not a single stain on it? :woohoo:

Thinking about you all and your yucky weather! Hope all is still okay and Kira and Josh are doing alright with their evacuation mess, etc. :confused3

It's so strange... we've had one light flurry here in our part of OK (we were actually on our trip then) and then a 1 inch snow last week which was 'nothing.' Usually by now, we've had at least one good one... I probably just jinxed us but this winter weather has been pretty much non-existent in NE OK which is just WEIRD! :rolleyes:

Kira and Josh are doing fine. I hope that the trees are being cleared today, but I haven't heard from her since she is back to work today. Life looks like it is getting back to normal. However, yesterday when i was in the store I overheard someone say they were told to not expect power for 2 weeks. :scared1: We are so blessed to have everything back on.
Ann, I am sorry I didn't post as much as I would have wanted over the last week, but (school)life has been crazy and it took away a lot of my DIStime.

First of - I hope you stay safe during the storm and never lose power. It must be pretty rough if you can hear the trees snap! :scared1:

You must be worried about Kira too, with the evacuation and everythink caked in ice - even though her antenna ball looked cute!
I'll send lots of warm thought, so the storm blows over quickly! :hug:

I loved all the updates you did. Your breakfast at Cindy's place looked good - I am thinking of doing that during our summer trip. :thumbsup2

No worries, Karin. I know you have a lot on your plate.

It was kinda scary hearing all the trees snapping. Now all we hear are chain saws. :rotfl2: And I did worry about Kira.. but she lives so close I knew that I could snatch her up in a no time if I needed to.

And... breakfast was definitely a high point in the trip. :cloud9:

Hi Ann,

I am very late to the party but am finally caught up on your TR. I was following along with your PTR when life got crazy. After 3 years of trying we finally sold our house, and they wanted to close in 4 weeks. So between finding a rental in our area and now househunting in Virginia, on top of regular craziness I was off the DIS for about 6 months.
I love your TR so far. Your pics are great and Zoe is such a pretty princess, loved her BBB makeover. I am also sorry to hear Zoe needed surgery but that it went well.
We are still hoping to get our first Dec trip in this year so I'm reading a few TR to get an idea of what we are in for. DH wants us to wait til after we close on a new house though before we book to make sure the money is there. We should be ok though, fingers crossed.
Can't wait to read more and hope you made out ok with the second storm. We are hopefully getting some snow in PA tonight, we have not had any since the weird storm in Oct.

:welcome: Not late... not late at all. I am not even done with day 4 and I plan to do 15 days total!

Being off dis for 6 months... that must have been a bit rough. However life takes priority... and it sounds like you had a lot of life going on. :goodvibes:goodvibes

Hopefully, you get your December trip! I think it is a definite must do. I guess there are some who make it their yearly trip.. for me... I don't think that will be happening... but I am so glad to have gone at Christmas time. :goodvibes

Dh said the other day that we've never been to CHH. I said actually, we ate our food there- just not theirs...(We had counter service credits ready to expire, so we picked up sandwiches at Boardwalk Bakery. We took them to MK the next day, and ate upstairs in AC at CHH.)

After seeing your pics, I think we will have to really eat there.

We enjoy the days that we go with the flow...

I love that eating area upstairs. What a great idea to bring your lunch up there! But... yes, the food is pretty decent too...so you should try it.:thumbsup2

I'm so sorry you're having such terrible weather out there. Ice storms are no joke. Neither is losing your power for an extended period of time. Hope that you and Kira doing well. :goodvibes

Nope... not fun... but we look to have survived. I know we are set to get more snow next weekend. (or so they say) I don't think it will be as bad. I hope not... Zoe missed a week of school (well, 4 days since monday was MLK day) Lots to make up.:rolleyes: