A No Snooze Bar Christmas, Harry & Mickey are Waiting..update 6/2 On Safari

[momabaarjo]

A No Snooze Bar Christmas, Harry & Mickey are Waiting

Welcome my my ramblings...errr, TR. As I sit down to title this TR, many titles pop in my head:

*Commando Mom in Charge of Christmas
*Can You Plan Too Much in a PTR?
*Early Bird Gets the Fast Pass
*Is it Possible to Have too Long of a Vacation?
*The Things we do to make sure our Children Have a Magicial Vacation
*I refuse to have a Meltdown when my Family Derails Ridemax Plans
*The Best Laid Plans...somebody tell my family about the value of touring plans
*Sleep, Who Needs Sleep?

I finally settled on the title A No Snooze Bar Christmas, because of comments based on this picture and post I made on Facebook Disney planning group I belong to along the replies I received back.

My Post:http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/5f6d8857.jpg
Yes, another early morning…today was my first rebellion…but I still made it in time for our before MK opening at CP! But I had to promise to cancel the other ADR breakfasts the rest of the trip if they agreed to 9 am rope drop instead of 7:30 am breakfast ADRs!

Replies:
*Love the look on your young ones face!
*I want some French toast from CP for breakfast!
*LOL they all look ready to eat you!
*LOL, oh I got plenty of those looks until we slept in late and I took them straight to DHS where the waits were too long and I refused to wait. They learned quick enough to do what I say.
*Gee, some people need some happy juice-don’t they know that they are at the happiest place on earth?
*Hah, they look like they need a Disney nap!
*Aha, the 8 am dragass
*Oh man I am not looking forward to those days
*Ha-ha! In their defense Tammie has had them up at the a**crack dawn every day.

We did get up VERY EARLY ALMOST every morning, and by about 11 am everyday my family understood why…one morning it only took till 8:37 am to understand the importance of rope drop. I was pretty amazed that even my teenage dd, who is in the “I love to Sleep” phase got up and around without me nagging her.

As you can also tell by the title, this was not strictly a WDW trip. My two oldest are huge Harry Potter fans, and there is no way that we could miss the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Mickey is nice, but in my house Harry tends to rule! I am so thankful that I did not have to use the “Rennervate” spell on my Muggle children (non-Potter fans, that means to wake up or energize)!

Most days it was not a struggle for us to Rennervate, but as the vacation wore on, even I was questioning my commando plans for rope drop and well, by the last day…stay tuned!

Here are some trip basics:

*Surprise Christmas Trip/Present for our Children
*This is a once in a lifetime family vacation to Orlando…so we pulled out the stops knowing what we would not get back as a family.
*We did it the Dave Ramsey way…cash
*I am the only one that has been to WDW/USO…dh and kids received their
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/Disney-World-First-Visit-Button.jpg
*December 25th-January 7th
*Split Stay:
5 Days/5 Nights at Universal Studios-Royal Pacific Resort, including a day at Discovery Cove
8 Days/8 Nights at WDW-Boardwalk Villas & POP Century

Here is the link to my PTR:

2 Castles to Send Out 2011 and Ring in 2012...Celebrating the 12 Days of Christmas (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2656086)

I did a pretty good job up until December linking information posts on to my index…for those that want to learn more about my Commando ways!

[momabaarjo]

Trip Report Chapters

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/autocover.jpg

Welcome (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43694581&postcount=1)
Introductions (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43716500&postcount=35)
Reveal Phase 1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43752979&postcount=43)
Surprise Reveal Derailed 2 Days Ahead of Schedule, Seriously?! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43753035&postcount=44)
Christmas Eve Morning/Breakfast & A Movie: Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43753154&postcount=45)
Christmas Eve Night (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43753272&postcount=47)

Sunday, December 25th: Travel Day/RPR
Reveal Phase 2: Part 1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43757377&postcount=60)
Reveal Phase 2: Part 2 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43788449&postcount=100)
Will This Flight Leave?...Let it NOT snow, Let it NOT snow (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43841958&postcount=116)
Boo & Goo's First Flight (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43851652&postcount=126)
DIA Preparing Us for a Week of Christmas Crowds in Orlando (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43860745&postcount=136)
After a Year of Planning I Can Finally SCREAM..."We're Going to Disney World!!!" (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43870796&postcount=150)
Bye Bye Plane, Hello MCO (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43878030&postcount=159)
From Snow to Palm Trees in 8 Hours...Paradise! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43894037&postcount=173)
Who Cares About Santa When You Have... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43902402&postcount=182)
Swim In, You Know Like A Drive In but with a Pool (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43902415&postcount=184)

Monday, December 26: WWofHP/IOA
How EARLY Is Early Entry? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43927834&postcount=194)
It's Like Stepping Inside My Imagination...Everything I Dreamed of and More (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43936880&postcount=205)
Are You a Muggle? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43944322&postcount=213)
The Wand Chooses... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43967811&postcount=222)
Dervish and Banges & Diagon Alley Together?...A Fan Rebellls (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43976294&postcount=234)
Parseling Our Way Into Hogwarts (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43986681&postcount=248)
From Book To Movie, To AMAZING (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43996879&postcount=256)
Really, Motion Sickness? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44005047&postcount=265)
Don't Forget to Bow (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44024563&postcount=269)
A Visit with Moaning Myrtle (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44044110&postcount=280)
A Beautiful Day in the Neigborhood (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44054447&postcount=286)
"Remember, these visits to Hogsmeade village are a privilege..." (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44064180&postcount=297)
A Round of Butter Beer (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44071893&postcount=305)
Not Platform 9 3/4...But Still Pretty Cool (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44080614&postcount=311)
Jokes & Sweets, A Boy's 2 Favorite Things: Part 1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44100869&postcount=322)
Jokes & Sweets, A Boy's 2 Favorite Things: Part 2 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44107570&postcount=329)
Breakfast Amongst the House Elves (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44117629&postcount=335)
Begging, Bribing, and Crowds...OH MY! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44135091&postcount=348)
Explosion of Christmas and Seuss (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44141810&postcount=360)
One Fish, Two Fish, Wet Sis, Mad Sis (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44172561&postcount=372)
I Need a Hero (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44194911&postcount=376)
Everybody Loves a Hero, Right? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44210314&postcount=382)
Step Right Up (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44217812&postcount=387)
How Wet Can You Get? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44227464&postcount=392)
Goo's Alter Ego Emerges (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44259527&postcount=396)
IOA Touring Plan (Almost) Completed (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44269989&postcount=402)
Which Way Do I Steer? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44281301&postcount=408)
Not a Cheeseburger in Paradise, Not Even Close (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44288458&postcount=411)
Islands of Adventure, An Adventure in the Dark (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44298245&postcount=420)

Tuesday, December 27th: IOA/USO
Sunrise Over Hogsmeade (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44312836&postcount=423)
2nd Time is the Charm (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44319799&postcount=430)
Decisions of a Teenage Tightwad (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44379220&postcount=439)
A Case of Child Abuse (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44432339&postcount=448)
Mother Knows Best (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44435456&postcount=451)
Port of Exit (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44444994&postcount=116)
Magic...Mirror...on...the wa... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44453736&postcount=460)
I'll Be Back (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44463799&postcount=468)
ET Text Home (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44472888&postcount=476)
From Space Aliens to Sea Creatures (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44501822&postcount=481)
Major Attitude Adjustment Needed (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44510717&postcount=488)

Wednesday, December 28th: Discovery Cove
Wet Suits Required (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44513642&postcount=492)
How to Snorkel & Keep Your Hair Dry (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44570886&postcount=498)
A Happy Whistle, That's a Dolphin Saying Hello (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44578352&postcount=501)
Now I Can Get My Hair Wet (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44592543&postcount=506)
Hungry Tummie & New Adventures (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44596382&postcount=507)
An Afternoon of Snorkeling and Floating (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44611113&postcount=511)
A Seuss Makeover & an Angry God
Twenty Questions & Where's the Bread (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44642483&postcount=526)
Ride Em', Err Leopard Boy (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44650618&postcount=530)

Thursday, December 29th: IOA/USO
How Many Times Can You Ride FJ with a Moaning Boo? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44655684&postcount=540)
A Fond Farewell to Harry (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44670948&postcount=552)
One Last Time Around All the Islands (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44682293&postcount=558)
A Grinchy Breakfast (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44693576&postcount=566)
Happy Wholidays (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44704741&postcount=569)
Minus One (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44716527&postcount=573)
From East Coast to West Coast and Back Again (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44853041&postcount=614)
Everybody Loves a Parade, Right? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44861636&postcount=620)

Friday, December 30: BWV/Epcot-CP
By Van, Bus & Boat (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44869829&postcount=628)
By Van, Bus & Boat...cont (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44869835&postcount=629)
By Monorail, Boat and Boat Again (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44879000&postcount=633)
Mickey is Cooking Breakfast (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44888745&postcount=644)
There's Lots of Christmas Storytellers in Epcot, Right? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44898939&postcount=654)
Definitely Not Sleeping Under the Boardwalk (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44909238&postcount=662)
Definitely Not Sleeping Under the Boardwalk...cont (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44909243&postcount=663)
Eh? O'Canada (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44929254&postcount=681)
Gewürztraminer, Brats, Caramel and a little Polka (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44965181&postcount=690)
Killing Time in the USA (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44983637&postcount=700)
The Greatest Story Ever Told, Disney Style (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44985918&postcount=704)
First DISmet...Noelle & Family (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45026176&postcount=726)

Saturday, December 31st: Animal Kingdom
First the Bus is Missing, Then Dad (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45028911&postcount=729)
Mickey Bars for Breakfast (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45049812&postcount=734)
On Safari (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45060788&postcount=757)

Dinner & a Movie Nights
Dinner & a Movie Night (Jan 28): Snowball Express (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43877855&postcount=157)
Dinner & a Movie Night (Feb 3): The Fox and the Hound (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43955400&postcount=220)
Dinner & a Movie Night (Feb 18): The Rescuers (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44069337&postcount=302)
Dinner & a Movie Night Double Feature (March 13): Darby O'Gill & the Little People and The Gnome Mobile (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44460426&postcount=465)


Digital Scrapbook Pages
Christmas Eve Night, Reveal Phase 2: Part 1, Reveal Phase 2: Part 2 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44661284&postcount=546)
Will This Flight Leave, Boo & Goo's First Flight, DIA Preparing Us , After a Year of Planning (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44661319&postcount=547)
Bye-Bye Plane, Hello MCO (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44661499&postcount=548)
From Snow to Palm Trees, in 8 Hours (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44661606&postcount=549)
How Cares About Santa on Christmas When You Have... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44910726&postcount=670)
How Early is Early Entry? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44989548&postcount=712)
It's Like Stepping Into My Imagination (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44989517&postcount=711)
Are You a Muggle?/2nd Time Charm (Day 2)...Olivanders (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45058337&postcount=751)
Wand Chooses...Owl Post (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45058350&postcount=752)
No Platform 9 3/4, but Still Pretty Cool (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44690363&postcount=563)
Parseling Our Way Through Hogwarts-Castle Outside (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44910765&postcount=671)
A Visit with Moaning Myrtle (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44989482&postcount=710)
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood & Remember These Visits Are... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44989436&postcount=709)
Jokes & Sweets: Part 1-Zonkos (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44910789&postcount=672)
Jokes & Sweets: Part 2-Honey Dukes (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44989354&postcount=707)
A Round of Butter Beer (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44989389&postcount=708)

[reelmom]

Wow! I think I might be first. I cannot wait for this TR to start!

[momabaarjo]

Wow! I think I might be first. I cannot wait for this TR to start!

:thumbsup2 Great job on being first. I hope that I can give you some insight into WWofHP without giving too many spoilers! The kids were so excited over the speculation that the possible expansion of WWofHP with Gringotts! Looks like another trip for us in a few years if this happens!

[lilpixiebabe101]

I'm second! Going back to read now!

[Dream426]

YAY!! I haven been looking forward to your TR. I can't wait to hear/read all about it.

[annmarieda]

Did I make first page? :hyper: Tell me I made first page.:hyper:

[lilpixiebabe101]

Oh I love the Intro! I like how you discussed all your options for your title! Can't wait for more! popcorn:: I posted the FDM in the FB room!

[Grumpy's Wife]

Wow, you've got 13 days planned. I want to hear all about this trip.

[IllinoisMommy]

Excited to read about your trip to WDW and WWOHP :thumbsup2
I hope it gives me lots of tips for our 2012 trip.

[ZFamily5]

Here! Can't wait to hear all about it! :cool1:

[tankgirl427]

I'll be checking in when I get home. WiFi is too slow from Disney!

[veggiemama]

Yea! So glad you started you TR. Can't wait to hear all about your trip! :cool1:

[superme80]

I am on page 1 of your PTR and I am hooked!!!! :cool1: Can't wait to read your report!

[lfwhipp]

Subscribing!! cant wait to read all about your trip!!

[Monknmom]

I don't have time to read anything right now, but I am coming back!!! YAY the trip report! popcorn::

[FosterA]

yay!! Bring it on. Can't wait to hear all the exciting details!

[sl_underwood]

Im in :surfweb:

[perrymarshall]

Subscribing as well - I think I read a majority of your PTR and enjoyed it, even though I don't think I commented on anything, and have been looking forward to hearing about your family's adventures for the last few weeks :)

[momabaarjo]

YAY!! I haven been looking forward to your TR. I can't wait to hear/read all about it.

Glad you to have you Gina...hope your little girls 1st Christmas was special for mom and dad!

Did I make first page? :hyper: Tell me I made first page.:hyper:

:rotfl:You made it...too bad I made like page 8 of yours!

Oh I love the Intro! I like how you discussed all your options for your title! Can't wait for more! popcorn:: I posted the FDM in the FB room!

You are such an organized girl...I love the new FB room! Although I enjoyed you hi-jacking everyones PTR!

Wow, you've got 13 days planned. I want to hear all about this trip.

Yep, that 13 days really plays a factor...how is that for a cliff hanger? Glad to have you.

Excited to read about your trip to WDW and WWOHP :thumbsup2
I hope it gives me lots of tips for our 2012 trip.

I hope I don't provide too many spoilers for WWofHP. It is amazing...I was there opening weekened 1 1/2 year ago and this time it was still just as amazing.

Here! Can't wait to hear all about it! :cool1:

Hope you and your sisters had a great Christmas. Do you have a picture that will work in the frame?

I'll be checking in when I get home. WiFi is too slow from Disney!

I know...I loved the Free WiFi at BWV...but when we were in the parks UGH or at POP DOUBLE UGH! I am so sorry we did not get to meet! Maybe the girls trip?

Yea! So glad you started you TR. Can't wait to hear all about your trip! :cool1:

I am on page 1 of your PTR and I am hooked!!!! :cool1: Can't wait to read your report!

Welcome, I so hope I don't disappoint.

Subscribing!! cant wait to read all about your trip!!

Hi Laurie!

I don't have time to read anything right now, but I am coming back!!! YAY the trip report! popcorn::

Time, you don't have time...I feel your pain! Hope you are feeling better!

yay!! Bring it on. Can't wait to hear all the exciting details!

Hi Aimee...have you bored your clients enough about your trip? :rotfl: I thought of you guys at the benches near EE!

Im in :surfweb:

Welcome!

Subscribing as well - I think I read a majority of your PTR and enjoyed it, even though I don't think I commented on anything, and have been looking forward to hearing about your family's adventures for the last few weeks :)

Glad to have the lurkers too...sometimes you wonder if anyone reads the ramblings. Thanks for saying hi! I sure hope that I don't disappoint anyone, to me the trip seemed pretty normal...but normal and boring tend to be my daily life.

[pinkxray]

Joining in, it sounds like a great trip:thumbsup2

[Dream426]

Glad you to have you Gina...hope your little girls 1st Christmas was special for mom and dad!


It was very special. She was very spoiled by everyone. :)

[21hearts]

I'm joining. I can't wait to see the pictures that you didn't post on Facebook!

[lovethattink]

I'm here!

[Monknmom]

LOL I thought about you when I booked Damien's playdate on Monday -- they are going to get their own wands and decorate a wand case... now you post that spell and I will be able to tell him atleast one spell! Great introduction and explanation! I'm looking forward to the reveal pics and such-- even though you said it didn't go as planned I am sure that it still looked pretty amazing!

Thank you for asking if I am still sick-- the answer is YES! I am not sure what's wrong the antibiotics didn't help, the doctor said that since I have been getting sick more often these last few months he thinks I may be allergic to Emily... but I don't know I am going to hold off on that test for a little.

[momminnie]

Hi! I'm in. I read most of your PTR and I hope I get to read all about your trip. As you can see I'll be there in just a few more days.

[ZFamily5]

Hope you and your sisters had a great Christmas. Do you have a picture that will work in the frame?

We did have a great Christmas! And yes, I have quite a few pictures I think will work in the frame! Thank you so much!

[petals]

So joining in!

[momabaarjo]

Joining in, it sounds like a great trip:thumbsup2

Glad you are here...Welcome!

I'm joining. I can't wait to see the pictures that you didn't post on Facebook!

I know...I posted a lot, but I was having fun...

I'm here!

Hi, Michelle...so glad you are here since you will be part of it in the near future...

LOL I thought about you when I booked Damien's playdate on Monday -- they are going to get their own wands and decorate a wand case... now you post that spell and I will be able to tell him atleast one spell! Great introduction and explanation! I'm looking forward to the reveal pics and such-- even though you said it didn't go as planned I am sure that it still looked pretty amazing!

Thank you for asking if I am still sick-- the answer is YES! I am not sure what's wrong the antibiotics didn't help, the doctor said that since I have been getting sick more often these last few months he thinks I may be allergic to Emily... but I don't know I am going to hold off on that test for a little.

Here is a list of spells used in the books...good luck saying them...Ab always corrects me.

http://harrypotterspells.net/

:scared1:Hope it is not Emily!


Hi! I'm in. I read most of your PTR and I hope I get to read all about your trip. As you can see I'll be there in just a few more days.

I hope you have a great trip...thanks for reading my ramblings of a PTR!

So joining in!

Emma-Glad you are here...I need to get caught up on yours. I am so sorry I could not find your hat. The CM got a good laugh at the description!

[Moodyzblu]

Joining in !

Looking forward to reading about WWoHP since we'll be there in April ! :banana:

We're not a rope drop family .. we're more of a "get there around noon" type of family. But we manage to get it all done .. somehow ! :confused3

[shocky5]

Royal FAIL for me! I'm joining in on page 3!! :confused3 I gotta pull it together here... :upsidedow

Love your intro! Can't wait to read all about it!!! :goodvibes

[Leger13]

Sheesh! How do you all get your TR's up w/o me noticing!!?? I'm bookmarking so I can come back and read once Alex goes down for his nap.

[Monknmom]

Here is a list of spells used in the books...good luck saying them...Ab always corrects me.

http://harrypotterspells.net/

:scared1:Hope it is not Emily!


Awesome, thank you! I will have to print some out for the kids to use on Monday!
I hope it's not her too! Although I complain about her all of the time, I love her! She's a god dog and stuff! I think it's something else and that's why I am not going to go get that test done right away!

[momabaarjo]

Joining in !

Looking forward to reading about WWoHP since we'll be there in April ! :banana:

We're not a rope drop family .. we're more of a "get there around noon" type of family. But we manage to get it all done .. somehow ! :confused3

Glad you are here...I am a morning person and generally my family it too...but we are also early to bed people, but adding in early morning and fireworks do not mix...plus the fact that we never seemed to get back for a rest in the afternoons....

Royal FAIL for me! I'm joining in on page 3!! :confused3 I gotta pull it together here... :upsidedow

Love your intro! Can't wait to read all about it!!! :goodvibes

Just glad you are here Amy! It would not be a TR without my fellow OCDs!

Sheesh! How do you all get your TR's up w/o me noticing!!?? I'm bookmarking so I can come back and read once Alex goes down for his nap.

Hi Carla...how is that little guy? I am sure he was spoiled at Christmas...I need to get over to your PTR and see your updates!

[momabaarjo]

Introductions...

Okay I will admit my intros are a little long, but hey I love to talk about my family! I promise this weekend my TR will get completely off the ground I will start posting about the actual trip. I am trying to clip videos of the reveal and get pictures downloaded and then uploaded...I took over 3000 pictures and that does not count photo pass!

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/03f8147c.jpg

Me (Tammie)-I am 40 something, after 35 I think I stopped counting and now I have to actually have to stop and figure out how old I am when asked. I work as a curriculum specialist in an elementary school, which means I work with teachers to improve classroom instruction therefore increase student learning. I like to consider myself between a rock (administration) and a hard place (teachers)…I have learned how to straddle the fence in this position, although most times it does not seem successful. My favorite Disney characters would probably be Ariel and Mary Poppins. I grew up watching the Wonderful World of Disney and reruns of the Mickey Mouse Club from the 50s. I love roller coasters…wonder if I will get my family on any of them at USO?

DH (Jeff)-He to is 40 something, but a little more into the 40s then me! This July we will be married for 17 years and met on a blind date set up by a parent of a student my first year teaching. He is a very hard worker, dependable, and a good father. For the last 20 years he has had his own hard wood flooring business, last spring he was even part of the Extreme Home Makeover Show on ABC…the one with the family whose daughter died texting and driving. Jeff hates crowds and would much rather prefer a vacation involve sitting on a lake or river somewhere fishing…especially at our cabin in the mountains. He spends his free time hunting and now that the boys are older they go with him most weekends. His favorite Disney Character is Doc Hudson...if there was a Disney character to describe him this trip it would be Wimpy...you will find out why!

DD (Ab)-She is a somewhat typical teenage girl when it comes to attitudes and moods, you never know from one moment to the next how she is going to be. Ab is my over achiever in school and life, she has to be the best at everything she does and it has to be perfect…what how this plays out in our trip was the trip report progresses. She is a freshman at the Catholic High School in our city, straight A student, a cheerleader (flyer of her squad…the one in the air), runs track (long distance) and plays the violin. Ab’s favorite thing to do is read and shut herself away in her room with her books. Her favorite Disney characters are Rapunzel, Tinkerbell, and Nemo. She loves Harry Potter (read the entire series when she was in 5th grade during Christmas break) and Hunger Games.

DS#1 (Boo)-My middle child…laid back, go with the flow, generally quiet, and funny kid. Boo has 1 gear sometimes, slow which drives me crazy. He is such a smart young man, but being a boy he does only what he needs to do to keep mom and dad off his back. Boo’s interests include cars, shooting/hunting, wrestling, football, reading, singing, fishing, and playing the guitar. He is my performer and has an incredible memory…again what how that plays out in our trip. His favorite Disney characters are Captain Hook, Phineas & Ferb and Jack Sparrow…but ask him his favorite princess he would say Aurora (guess that means he is at the age where he is starting to notice girls). He too loves Harry Potter, and has read the entire series.

DS#2 (Goo)-My little accident later life that has given me all my gray hairs. Goo (short for Goober or peanut) is a kindergartner this year. He is the child that had he been first, he would be an only child. He has the most incredible laugh and usually is in a good mood until he is tired…which lead for some interesting moments on our trip. Goo has two gears, full speed and complete stop…from the moment he wakes up he is on the go. He loves anything cars or with motors and bugging Ab and Boo. He loves Lightning McQueen, and considers himself Lightning’s #1 Fan. We have gone through 3 CARS DVDs out of wear and tear…on one road trip he watched CARS for over 8 hours straight.

[lovethattink]

Great intro! Awesome Discovery Cove picture!

[annmarieda]

What a great intro! I love the family pic and cant wait to hear more about your trip.

[shocky5]

Yeah! I love the family picture! You have a beautiful family!

I have to snicker at the similarities in our children... specifically our #3's! Constantly on the go and pestering the older siblings... It has to have something to do with the fact that they were not 'planned' and knowing what a planner you and I both are, I can imagine your shock just as my own when discovering I was pregnant with #3. :rotfl2:

Hope you are having a great weekend! Stay warm!! :goodvibes

[Leger13]

Hi Carla...how is that little guy? I am sure he was spoiled at Christmas...I need to get over to your PTR and see your updates!

Hi Tammie! He is doing great! Oh yes he certainly was. My living room looks like toys r us exploded in it. There are definitely pictures to see on my PTR. Only 3 weeks for us till our trip!

Great intro of your family! Your Ab sounds just like my oldest niece. She's an over achiever too and such a great young lady. Can't wait to read the first trip update. No pressure of course

[sl_underwood]

Your teen sounds a whole lot like mine, cant wait to read all about yout trip!

[swwake]

I am here! Yay!!

[petals]

Love the DC pic!

[momabaarjo]

Reveal Part 1For those who did not follow my PTR (and who could blame you...11 months of planning) our reveal was done in 3 separate parts, in order to throw off Ab and Boo so that they would not figure out the gift ahead of time and blow it for Goo. The first part of my reveal began on December 1st with the appearance of our Elf on a Shelf, Kirby. Kirby brought with him an Advent Calendar to countdown the days until Christmas. I had been working on this part since last Feburary and continued to tweek it until it became what a reality.

Link to Post from PTR: Reveal Part 1 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43381981&postcount=1730)

Reflections:The kids really never made the connection between the count down to going to WDW at Christmas, or at least they did not appear to make the connection. I guess mainly because anytime WDW was brought up we always talked like it was happening in July and not at Christmas. I have told so many white lies this last year that I may need to schedule a daily confession for the next year with our priest. Also, after reading Kirby’s letter on the first day Ab and Boo were convinced that we were going skiing for Christmas…the word LIFT really threw them off and they could not see past that word. Then again, the cousins in Colorado helped out too…with constant texts about ready to visit and go skiing…yes, we are going skiing with the cousins but not until February so none of us are not lying…technically, right?!

[momabaarjo]

Surprise Reveal Derailed 2 Days Ahead of Schedule, Seriously?!

I have worked so hard over the last year to keep this trip a secret, and believe me there have been A LOT of close calls. The week prior I cried along with my DISfriend Amy when her Christmas surprise was derailed with less than a day to go…My MIL has not been happy that we were leaving Christmas and would not be spending midmorning until Christmas night with her and FIL (but it is okay that BIL has 4 weeks of vacation, but does not come and see his parents at Christmas…a whole different story)…and I think secretly she has been plotting since she found out to somehow ruin the surprise, yes she is like that…she always has to be the center of attention with the kids.

Link to my MAJOR FREAK OUT (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43529182&postcount=1916)

Somehow I got off the phone and called Jeff in a panic, telling or should I say DEMANDING that he calls his mom and gets this straightened out that NO PRESENTS TONIGHT. Okay, maybe I am being a tad bit tacky (not the word I would use) with MIL, but seriously what are you thinking? Ab questions me why nanny wants to do presents tonight and not on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day...thinking fast on my feet I tell her that nanny thought we were leaving for Colorado early this year…daddy forgot to tell her that he had to work on Monday so we can’t leave early so Christmas will just be normal. Jeff gets things straightened out with MIL (who is not very happy), after getting mad at me for never keeping him in the loop on this trip…HUH? You never want to listen or help in the plans…so we settled in that night and watched Flipper and Zeus & Roxanne along with our pizza, just the 5 of us…no presents and NO MIL. But all during the movie I kept thinking in my head, how can we do Christmas early tomorrow night to satisfy MIL and not tip the kids off that this Christmas would be any different.

[momabaarjo]

Christmas Eve Morning/Breakfast & A Movie: Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/onceupon.jpg

The kids have been so used to having a dinner and a movie night each week for almost the past year that I thought it would be fun to do a Breakfast and a Movie on Christmas Eve Morning (since I knew in the back of my mind that we would not have a Christmas Morning Breakfast. So while the kids did the normal Kirby and Advent Treasure Hunt I got busy in the kitchen. I had borrowed a friends Mickey waffle maker back in November (she told me to keep it until after our trip in case I needed it anymore) and I made chocolate chip waffles with sliced fresh strawberries and whip cream, along with some bacon and fried eggs for the boys.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/oncuponbreakfast.jpg

I then brought out the movie and asked the kids if they wanted to do a movie breakfast, they were so excited. We settled in with our breakfast and watched Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas…me smiling like the Cheshire cat knowing that tomorrow it would become a Once Upon a Christmas with Harry and Mickey. I had thought about revealing after the movie to prevent all the chaos that I knew was going to happen in the next 24 hours, but Jeff talked me out of it...


After breakfast I got Jeff to take the kids away from the house so I could finish packing and doing some last minute trip stuff. After finishing packing and hiding the luggage back into my closet, I called MIL to figure out how to do Christmas Eve. She assured me that they would just pretend that she was letting them open one present at their house on Christmas Eve and after mass, once the kids are in bed FIL would drop the other presents off for us on Christmas morning (stuff for to put in their travel bags and money to spend).

[JessicaKnits]

Wow, what a great start. It is so exciting that you were able to keep it a secret from your kids the entire time. I would NEVER be able to do that! But I'm sure when you saw the look on their faces it was all worth it. I can't wait to read more!

[momabaarjo]

Christmas Eve Night

After seeming to be gone forever (yes, I should know better and just enjoy the peace while I have it) Jeff finally returns with the kids. The went and saw Tin-Tin...we usually go see a movie Christmas Eve afternoon as a family, our little tradition that we have done every year since the kids were little...I told them I was not feeling well and just really wanted to sleep. They were disappointed, but we were able to pass it off to them without much selling.

We get dressed for mass and head to MILs (mind you they leave a block away…but we do not see them a lot since we have 3 kids on 3 different schedules). We get to the inlaws and MIL who decorates HUGE for Christmas does not have anything up but her Nativity. WHAT THE HECK? The kids did not say anything about no Christmas tree, but I am sure their heads are full of questions…think, think, think…we will just tell them that Grandad did not have the strength (this fall he had some health issues lately) to drag the tree out this year…another lie I am going to have to confess to our priest! The kids each open a present. Phew, it seems like the near miss is with a forced early revel has been diverted and I can enjoy the evening. We then together head off to Christmas Eve Mass where Ab and Boo play for mass…(okay a mommie moment, you have to listen to them play…Ab has been playing the violin for 7 years and Boo the guitar of a year…this is the first time they played together).

YOUTUBE LINK TO VIDEO of their DUET (http://youtu.be/6ttKXl2gkOQ)
The video is a little dark, but you can still hear them playing!

We get home around 11 pm…Jesus gets put in the nativity, we sing Happy Birthday, Santa gets his oreos and milk (we did not bake this year), I get the kids off to bed and Jeff sneaks down to his parents and gets the presents from them and we are into bed because I know how early Santa is coming! As soon as my head hit the pillow I was out, until...

I wake with a startle about 3:30 am realizing that I am not ready for reveal stage 2 and what if the boys had gotten up in the middle of the night?!

[addictedtothemouse]

I can't wait to see their reactions to the reveal. :goodvibes
How did you do it? I couldn't keep a secret like that for 11 days let alone 11 months.:sad2::laughing:

[ZFamily5]

Keep going! :laughing:

I can't wait to see their reaction to the big moment!

[shocky5]

Awww I did not know your MIL caused that turmoil for you! I'm so sorry I missed that!! :hug: I'm glad she came to an agreement with you and was good to just let you all put the kids gifts (minus one) in their travel bags. But oh the stress... Don't you just love how in-laws can bring immediate tension and anxiety into your typically happy relationship with your spouse? :confused3

I am loving reading your report! It's surreal to think that your trip was building up to start as ours was winding down... the nice part of that is I felt like I was a part of Disney from the time Ann and Heather left, while my family was there alongside Ashley's and Susan's, and didn't stop until you notified us that you'd arrived home safely! The past 5 weeks have been a total blur because of that! :rotfl:

I just have to say again I absolutely love the picture of your family at Discovery Cove. Can't wait to hear how that adventure went!

Happy Monday! Hope you have a great week! Nolan started mine off with a barf-o-rama last night, all night, and through today. My washing machine hasn't stopped since and our house smells like a hospital... :rotfl: SO don't have time for all of us to go down!

[lilpixiebabe101]

I read it in the PTR.. but I still just can't believe she was trying to ruin a year long surprise like that!!!

Love the waffles and movie on christmas eve morning!

Can't believe you and all your planning glory had forgotten to set up for stage 2!!!

[swwake]

Tammie - I love your penchant for story telling! Your MIL sounds a bit like my Mom - it's all about her and attention on her.

I love your Christmas eve traditions.

Can't wait to hear what happens at 3:30am!

[petals]

Great vid of the kids playing silent night.

Also can't wait to see reveal.

[momabaarjo]

Great intro! Awesome Discovery Cove picture!

Thanks...it was a good picture...but wait until you hear about the build up to that picture! :rotfl2:

What a great intro! I love the family pic and cant wait to hear more about your trip.

Thanks...oh you will hear probably more than you want to hear or read!

Yeah! I love the family picture! You have a beautiful family!

Thanks...sometimes I think they are pretty great too, not so much at the moment! :headache:

I have to snicker at the similarities in our children... specifically our #3's! Constantly on the go and pestering the older siblings... It has to have something to do with the fact that they were not 'planned' and knowing what a planner you and I both are, I can imagine your shock just as my own when discovering I was pregnant with #3. :rotfl2:

Yes Goo was VERY UNPLANNED...long story short I was having feritility issues before he was born and had not ovulated in over 2 years. GYN decides that we can go ahead and do the hystrorectmy (spelling is not my strong point) that fall but since 3 other people on my campus are doing the same thing I get him to hold off until spring...that October God had other plans and I became preg with Goo. I was in shock and denial...but I think the doctor was in more shock when I told him to run the test! There went the Alaska Cruise I was saving for that summer for our 10th anniversary...people at school thought I was dying...I was so sick with him, never sick at all with the other 2. Imagine their :scared1: when I told them the situation.

Hope you are having a great weekend! Stay warm!! :goodvibes

Hi Tammie! He is doing great! Oh yes he certainly was. My living room looks like toys r us exploded in it. There are definitely pictures to see on my PTR. Only 3 weeks for us till our trip!

The fun...I am getting so excited to here about Alex's first trip!

Great intro of your family! Your Ab sounds just like my oldest niece. She's an over achiever too and such a great young lady. Can't wait to read the first trip update. No pressure of course

She is a special girl...but sometimes I feel like I just want to disown her!

Your teen sounds a whole lot like mine, cant wait to read all about yout trip!

Glad to know there are others in the same boat with their dd as I am with mine.


I am here! Yay!!

I knew you would get here sooner or later...with all the traveling you have been doing my head is spinning. I loved your Breckenridge photos...my mom has a condo there! Although I hear the snow is not that great this year...hope there was enough for you guys to have fun.

Love the DC pic!

Thanks...I loved yours too!

Wow, what a great start. It is so exciting that you were able to keep it a secret from your kids the entire time. I would NEVER be able to do that! But I'm sure when you saw the look on their faces it was all worth it. I can't wait to read more!

I hope I don't disappoint, the secret was hard but it was fun!

I can't wait to see their reactions to the reveal. :goodvibes
How did you do it? I couldn't keep a secret like that for 11 days let alone 11 months.:sad2::laughing:

Lucky for me I found some great DIS friends to blab to all the time.

Keep going! :laughing:

Tryings...not doing so good getting the TR off and going!

I can't wait to see their reaction to the big moment!

Awww I did not know your MIL caused that turmoil for you! I'm so sorry I missed that!! :hug: I'm glad she came to an agreement with you and was good to just let you all put the kids gifts (minus one) in their travel bags. But oh the stress... Don't you just love how in-laws can bring immediate tension and anxiety into your typically happy relationship with your spouse? :confused3

Mine certainly does...I am trying to figure out how I can save $$$ to take a trip every year someplace at Christmas and avoid both sides of the family!

I am loving reading your report! It's surreal to think that your trip was building up to start as ours was winding down... the nice part of that is I felt like I was a part of Disney from the time Ann and Heather left, while my family was there alongside Ashley's and Susan's, and didn't stop until you notified us that you'd arrived home safely! The past 5 weeks have been a total blur because of that! :rotfl:

Me too...it was like Disney for 6 weeks!

I just have to say again I absolutely love the picture of your family at Discovery Cove. Can't wait to hear how that adventure went!

Happy Monday! Hope you have a great week! Nolan started mine off with a barf-o-rama last night, all night, and through today. My washing machine hasn't stopped since and our house smells like a hospital... :rotfl: SO don't have time for all of us to go down!

Hope Nolan is doing better...I hate the o-rama...keep reading!

I read it in the PTR.. but I still just can't believe she was trying to ruin a year long surprise like that!!!

She was, trust me...

Love the waffles and movie on christmas eve morning!

Chocolate chip waffles with whip cream and strawberries!

Can't believe you and all your planning glory had forgotten to set up for stage 2!!!
Yep...I think I was just too tired to think!

Tammie - I love your penchant for story telling! Your MIL sounds a bit like my Mom - it's all about her and attention on her.

I love your Christmas eve traditions.

Can't wait to hear what happens at 3:30am!

Hopefully you will not have to wait...I am trying to figure out clipping videos, putting them together, and then youtube...not so much fun!

[FosterA]

Tammie,
I am literally on the edge of my seat waiting to hear all about your trip! You guys did so much and we're gone for so long that I can't wait to hear all the details. Plus, it's very interesting to hear about how other's teen girls acted.
I hope you have lots of photos to share too!

[Sara1Babe]

I'm in. I read most of the PTR but I'm not sure I ever said "hi" I can't wait to hear the ups and downs in your TR

[veggiemama]

popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:: Keep going!! I want to read more. I never had a chance to read about this on your PTR so I'm dying to know what happens next! :rotfl:

[momabaarjo]

Tammie,
I am literally on the edge of my seat waiting to hear all about your trip! You guys did so much and we're gone for so long that I can't wait to hear all the details. Plus, it's very interesting to hear about how other's teen girls acted.
I hope you have lots of photos to share too!

Trust me I took lots of pictures...trying to get my photo pass share edited and then the pictures will begin. I can't wait to share some shocking observations of my dd with you...but I will let you know that I saw her smile more in a couple weeks than the entire last year while we were on our trip, that made it well worth everything!

I'm in. I read most of the PTR but I'm not sure I ever said "hi" I can't wait to hear the ups and downs in your TR

Glad to have you here...

popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:: Keep going!! I want to read more. I never had a chance to read about this on your PTR so I'm dying to know what happens next! :rotfl:

Such expectations to live up to, especially when I am thinking my trip was pretty normal and not so eventful!

[sl_underwood]

Cant wait for the reveal! So exciting!:banana:

[momabaarjo]

Reveal Phase 2: Part 1

I literally set up in bed in a panic about needing to get things ready and done, I had been having nightmares for the last month about missing our flight because we had gotten up late. :scared1: Of course Jeff is sleeping soundly next to me, not a care to the world. :mad: I quickly rush out of bed drag the HUGE Reveal box out from its hiding place in our room and place it beside the tree. I turn on the tree and stop to admire the beauty and the quietness of the moment.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/lonechristmaspresent.jpg


I always like this time on Christmas morning, the kids are not up and the presents under the twinkling tree. Next, I quickly polish off the oreos left on Santa's plate and dump the milk down the sink...yuck warm milk that has been sitting out all night and place Kirby's goodbye letter on the plate. The travel bags (err stockings) are pulled from their hiding place along with Santa's gift and set in front of the tv.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/SantasGiftsandStockings.jpg

Looking at the clock it is now close to 4:00 am, there is no way I will able to settle down and I go ahead and hop in the shower and get ready for the day. By the time (around 5:30 am) I am done getting around, I think that Jeff will finally be up, but is he? :mad::mad::mad:No, of course not...why should he I have everything packed, planned and under control all he has to do is go along for the ride. I have to get the kids up in about 15 minutes if we plan to get phase 2 down and out the door by 7:15 am...so I do my best stomping into the bedroom act and ask if him he plans on going with us today because I am getting the kids up in 15 minutes and I know how long it takes him in the shower. He gets up not very happy with me and mutters Merry Christmas and gets in the shower. I go back to the living room and pull out the Trans-Siberian Orchestra DVD (something we do every Christmas morning...open presents to the sounds of TSO) and push play...and head to get the boy up and they happily head into the living room to see what Santa has left in the stockings...Now the worst part, getting Ab out of bed in somewhat a decent mood as not to ruin the morning. Can it be done? I quietly come into her room and gently lay down beside her and start quietly begging her to get up and see what Santa has brought since her brothers are up and I really want to do Santa as a family. She rolls over and gives me the look (those of you with teenage daughters know the look and it can be seen even in a darkened room) and the huff, and again I am resorting to begging and bribing...if you get up now you can go back to bed until midmorning and get up for family presents and breakfast. Another huff and demand of a promise to let her go back to bed... I smile to myself as I say "Yes you can go back to bed if you want...". Before I leave her room I ask that she tries to be nice for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, I hear Jeff get out of the shower and the boys squealing with delight as they are finding all the fun stuff in their stockings. I glance at the clock 5:55, 5 minutes ahead of schedule. I meet the boys back in the living room and have fun watching them unload the travel bags when Ab joins us 5 minutes later. About the time that the kids finish with their stockings Jeff appears and we are ready to do Santa's gift, and even Ab is sporting a smile. But will anyone notice the HUGE, LONE present near the tree?

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/goostocking.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/boostocking.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/Abstocking.jpg

Stockings
A few months back Goo and I were in Walgreens and I found the perfect sized little duffle bags for carry on bags, told Goo that they would make great travel bags for the car (which they will, but not this trip). I thought originally that I would have them in the reveal box as a gift and have the kids put all their stocking stuff into them right before we left, but Goo gave me a better idea a few weeks ago…that kid has a memory…he asked me what happened to those bags we had bought together that they would make great stockings. I told him good thinking, let me ask Kirby if Santa likes this idea…guess Santa agreed because Santa left the stocking stuff in the bags with his gift. The stockings were filled with things that the kids could use to pass the time away on the plane, as well as snacks and little things they could use during our trip.

Santa’s Gift
Santa left the Ab & Boo cash this year and Goo furbished I-pod. Santa brings 1 gift to our house each year, something the kids REALLY WANT. With the two oldest being non-believers now I figured that they would not question cash…of course I attached a note saying that he just did not know what to get them this year and he hoped this would help them get just the right gift! Goo has been wanting his own I-pod to listen to music on…I figured that I could give a 6 year old an I-pod that cost me $30 and not stress out when either he breaks it or it gets lost (he also got some cash but it was from mom and dad).

[swwake]

<<chanting>> "big box. big box. what's in the big box?"

[petals]

OMG the excitement OPEN THE BIG BOX SOMEONE QUICK!!! :goodvibes

[FosterA]

Oh come on Tammie! The suspense is torture.
Can't you ditch work this week and stay home and work on the TR!?:lmao:

I can totally see Jeff laying in bed just oblivious and in no rush whatsoever because, well....my husband is the exact same way. I have been Santa, Easter Bunny, Tooth Fairy for 15 years while he snoozed away. He probably really still believes in Santa because things just magically appear and get done at our house and all he has to do is crawl out of bed ever so slowly.:rotfl:

[momabaarjo]

Been checking out cruises for next Christmas (bound and determined to have another drama free Christmas)...no way that I can afford a Disney one! :guilty: If we go out of Houston and book through Carnival we are looking at around $700 a person for a 5 day cruise ($3500)...then I can use the $500 airfare credit we have with SW and that will pay about 1/2 of the airfare...hmmm how can I sock away another $4000 for a Christmas Cruise on top of what we need to save for the addition to the cabin this fall?

[lovethattink]

I missed a couple updates. Sorry! Good thinking on the bag. Glad everything went well Christmas Eve and for waking up Christmas morning. Great pics so far! Looking forward to the next installment!

[veggiemama]

:lmao::lmao: Joining the chant...

BIG BOX.. BIG BOX.... OPEN THE BIG BOX...

:lmao::lmao:

[annmarieda]

OMG! I have to say... along with everyone...


big box! big box!

The suspense is killing me. So far so good though... other than mil's little stunt. I had to laught at you asking Jeff if he was going to go with you. I tend to have that same type of attitude at times with my d.. dh:rolleyes1

[annmarieda]

Been checking out cruises for next Christmas (bound and determined to have another drama free Christmas)...no way that I can afford a Disney one! :guilty: If we go out of Houston and book through Carnival we are looking at around $700 a person for a 5 day cruise ($3500)...then I can use the $500 airfare credit we have with SW and that will pay about 1/2 of the airfare...hmmm how can I sock away another $4000 for a Christmas Cruise on top of what we need to save for the addition to the cabin this fall?

ACK!! I looked (briefly) too. :scared1: Wow those are expensive. The only affordable disney cruise I found was for 2013..and no where near Christmas time. I am with you on it all... we need a new roof just as starters. I really need to not spend too much on travel this year. (2011 was spendy with a honeymoon we paid for and the 2 week December trip )

[momabaarjo]

ACK!! I looked (briefly) too. :scared1: Wow those are expensive. The only affordable disney cruise I found was for 2013..and no where near Christmas time. I am with you on it all... we need a new roof just as starters. I really need to not spend too much on travel this year. (2011 was spendy with a honeymoon we paid for and the 2 week December trip )

I wonder why Disney Cruises are soooo high....I mean like double and triple what other ones are!? :confused3

I know there is no way we can do a trip in 2012 (I have work related trips in May to St. Louis and June to Nashville so those are going to have to help squash the travel bug)...with the cabin and the fact that I need a new car and new living room furniture...well it is nice to dream. I also know that in 3 years we have promised to take Ab to Rome/Vatican for high school graduation if she completes at a Catholic High School and of course in 20 months there is this girl thing in someplace called WDW that is keeping me going....:rolleyes1

[lilpixiebabe101]

I wonder why Disney Cruises are soooo high....I mean like double and triple what other ones are!? :confused3

I know there is no way we can do a trip in 2012 (I have work related trips in May to St. Louis and June to Nashville so those are going to have to help squash the travel bug)...with the cabin and the fact that I need a new car and new living room furniture...well it is nice to dream. I also know that in 3 years we have promised to take Ab to Rome/Vatican for high school graduation if she completes at a Catholic High School and of course in 20 months there is this girl thing in someplace called WDW that is keeping me going....:rolleyes1

Oh goodness.. those are alot of trips!

And yes... ladies trip is keeping me going as well!

[Leger13]

OMG the BIG BOX!!!! You must have been jumping out of your skin with excitement waiting for them to get to that box.

[sl_underwood]

Get to the big box! I want to see the reveal! :yay:

[momabaarjo]

<<chanting>> "big box. big box. what's in the big box?"

OMG the excitement OPEN THE BIG BOX SOMEONE QUICK!!! :goodvibes

Oh come on Tammie! The suspense is torture.
Can't you ditch work this week and stay home and work on the TR!?:lmao:

I can totally see Jeff laying in bed just oblivious and in no rush whatsoever because, well....my husband is the exact same way. I have been Santa, Easter Bunny, Tooth Fairy for 15 years while he snoozed away. He probably really still believes in Santa because things just magically appear and get done at our house and all he has to do is crawl out of bed ever so slowly.:rotfl:

I can't believe that happens in someone else's house too! :rolleyes1:rolleyes1:rolleyes1



:lmao::lmao: Joining the chant...

BIG BOX.. BIG BOX.... OPEN THE BIG BOX...

:lmao::lmao:

OMG! I have to say... along with everyone...


big box! big box!

The suspense is killing me. So far so good though... other than mil's little stunt. I had to laught at you asking Jeff if he was going to go with you. I tend to have that same type of attitude at times with my d.. dh:rolleyes1

Dh are not so darling some of the times....:rotfl2:

OMG the BIG BOX!!!! You must have been jumping out of your skin with excitement waiting for them to get to that box.

Get to the big box! I want to see the reveal! :yay:

Ask and you shall receive...here is what was in the big box...


http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/box2inside.jpg

[momabaarjo]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v632/jimboloco/laughingmickeymouse.jpg

[mommytominnie]

Tammie, I am loving your TR. Yours is putting mine to shame :-) I can't wait to read more.

[swwake]

Ask and you shall receive...here is what was in the big box...


http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/box2inside.jpg

Wait. What?!?!

[sl_underwood]

I feel like Rex shaking the night stand screaming what is it!

[annmarieda]

:rotfl2::rotfl2:

You really do know how to keep us in suspense, Tammie!!!!

[lovethattink]

ROFL. I understand now how you could keep everything secret from the kids. You are a big sneak!!! Now you're practicing your skills on us...and it's working...

[veggiemama]

:rotfl2::rotfl2:

Well, you gave me a good chuckle off of that. You are really good at the suspense thing Tammie!

Of course, you have still left me chanting

BIG BOX, BIG BOX.... OPEN IT!!!!!!!

:rotfl::rotfl:

[momabaarjo]

Wait. What?!?!

I feel like Rex shaking the night stand screaming what is it!

:rotfl2::rotfl2:

You really do know how to keep us in suspense, Tammie!!!!

ROFL. I understand now how you could keep everything secret from the kids. You are a big sneak!!! Now you're practicing your skills on us...and it's working...

:rotfl2::rotfl2:

Well, you gave me a good chuckle off of that. You are really good at the suspense thing Tammie!

Of course, you have still left me chanting

BIG BOX, BIG BOX.... OPEN IT!!!!!!!

:rotfl::rotfl:

Well...you all asked me what was inside this box

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/box1.jpg

so I showed you...now I guess you want to know what is in this box?

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/box2.jpg

Here you go....

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/box3inside.jpg

What that is not good enough, now you want to know what is in that box...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/box4inside.jpg

Come on give me a break now I guess you want to know what is in that box...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/beforelastbox.jpg

Still not good enough...you sure are a demanding crowd...okay here is what is in that box

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/lastgift.jpg

Guess what....if you want to know what are in these 3 packages stay tuned until....:rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2:

[annmarieda]

:rotfl2::lmao:

That is too funny!!!!

[sl_underwood]

:rotfl2::rotfl::rotfl2:

[addictedtothemouse]

Gaaaaahhhhh!!!!

:rotfl:

[FosterA]

I'm trying to read the little tags and can't quite see them, darn it!

The suspense.........popcorn::

[catherines_mama]

You're killing me here!!! Can't wait to read more!!

[swwake]

We did that to Katie a couple of years ago with some small expensive gift that I don't remember. She was pretty mad by the last box.

I agree - I'd like to know what the cards all said.

[Sara1Babe]

Lmao :rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2: way to treat your loyal readers

[veggiemama]

:lmao::lmao:

My kids keep asking me why I am laughing at my computer!!

:lmao::lmao:

[21hearts]

First of all awesome idea on the wrapped box inside a box! Secondly I want to see how this part of the reveal went!

[lovethattink]

Tammie!!!!!!

[shocky5]

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! I thought I'd waited long enough to find out what was in the boxes... :rotfl2:

[shocky5]

Ann/Tammie - we've been looking at cruises, too... probably be a July trip but funny that all of our minds have shifted in that direction. Surely it's becasue of Susan's girls cruise not too long ago! :thumbsup2

[Disneychix]

I'm signing up just to see what's in the last darn boxes :)

[swwake]

Ann/Tammie - we've been looking at cruises, too... probably be a July trip but funny that all of our minds have shifted in that direction. Surely it's becasue of Susan's girls cruise not too long ago! :thumbsup2I'm looking at cruises too, but not a Disney cruise. I will include more about that when I get to the end of my TR. I can't plan anything as far as personal travel until we get our Germany trip confirmed, or confirm we're not going to Germany. Should know that in a couple of month. Then I may add a short cruise or a Disney F&W trip in the fall. Not sure yet.

[shocky5]

I'm looking at cruises too, but not a Disney cruise. I will include more about that when I get to the end of my TR. I can't plan anything as far as personal travel until we get our Germany trip confirmed, or confirm we're not going to Germany. Should know that in a couple of month. Then I may add a short cruise or a Disney F&W trip in the fall. Not sure yet.

I don't know if we will look at Disney or 'another cruise line' but we've never been on one and it is appealing! So any tips you may have...

You are such the world traveler! I love that! :thumbsup2 I would love to do the F&W... oh wait... Oct. 2013! :thumbsup2

[momabaarjo]

:rotfl2::lmao:

That is too funny!!!!

:rotfl2::rotfl::rotfl2:

Gaaaaahhhhh!!!!

:rotfl:

I'm trying to read the little tags and can't quite see them, darn it!

The suspense.........popcorn::

You're killing me here!!! Can't wait to read more!!

Lmao :rotfl2::rotfl2::rotfl2: way to treat your loyal readers

:lmao::lmao:

My kids keep asking me why I am laughing at my computer!!

:lmao::lmao:

First of all awesome idea on the wrapped box inside a box! Secondly I want to see how this part of the reveal went!

Tammie!!!!!!

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! I thought I'd waited long enough to find out what was in the boxes... :rotfl2:

I'm signing up just to see what's in the last darn boxes :)So glad you joined in...hope to stick around after the boxes are opened!

Well I have to get you interested somehow....:lmao: cause I am afraid after the reveal we are pretty darn boring...and remember the last year of my life has been spent dreaming of this reveal!

[momabaarjo]

Ann/Tammie - we've been looking at cruises, too... probably be a July trip but funny that all of our minds have shifted in that direction. Surely it's becasue of Susan's girls cruise not too long ago! :thumbsup2

I'm looking at cruises too, but not a Disney cruise. I will include more about that when I get to the end of my TR. I can't plan anything as far as personal travel until we get our Germany trip confirmed, or confirm we're not going to Germany. Should know that in a couple of month. Then I may add a short cruise or a Disney F&W trip in the fall. Not sure yet.

Okay, both of you way to make me jealous...other than the work traveling it is going to be a quiet summer...all I see in my travel plans is in the truck back and forth to the cabin! So I guess I will have to live through you and your travels cause I need a new car, the cabin needs to be expanded, and oh yeah I need new living room furniture (but if I buy that from Ashley Furniture...they always run a summer trip promotion if you purchase...so maybe there is hope).

What Ann may go to WDW this fall and now Susan...I guess I will just wait until 2013 to go with all of you!

[momabaarjo]

I think I have made you wait long enough...and I figured out youtube (I hope). Onto Reveal Phase 2....

Before you all kill me...and stop reading! :)

[momabaarjo]

Reveal Phase 2

Remember at the start of the Advent Countdown (Phase 1), Kirby tipped the kids off that the present they get on Christmas would give them lots of lift...So the kids are still thinking we are going skiing and our plane does route through Denver…gotta love that and we need to get around and out the door before 7:15…how am I going to manage this?

[ENTER PRESENT, CHRISTMAS TREE RIGHT]

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/lonechristmaspresent.jpg

Finally, Goo realizes that there is a present next to the tree and Boo quickly lets him know it is for all 3 of them. The boys demand to open it, but Ab is still ready to go back to bed, and of course I promised her that once Santa and stocking was over she could go back to bed...all eyes turn on her and Goo gives his best puppy dog eyes. Will she give in and stay up a little longer? She can't resist her littlest brother, with those eyes...:yay: She agrees and the kids ask us if they can open it...and of course we agree cause I am looking at the clock and projecting that it is going to take 30 minutes for this gift (you already know why from my lasts posts). Well here is what happened...and for those of you trying to read the cards...the kids will tell you what they say.

I apologize now for the poor video quality...I forgot to turn on more lights than just the tree, a table lamp, and the television...but you will get the reaction from them. Remember that Goo and Boo have never been on a plane before.

LINK TO YOUTUBE VIDEO OF PHASE 2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiEvtyg_C5E&feature=youtu.be)

Put it all together and you get…Plane Ride to Denver today at 7:15 am. They then opened their gifts and found new ski hats…well it might get cold in Orlando at night, right and they still do not know that is final destination...Denver is just a layover and a plane change.

Reflections: Okay so to start if off there was a tape flaw...I have no idea why they could not open into the 2nd box (I swear I did not use that much tape). Next, reading issues...honest Boo is a very good reader...I just happened to use the Walt Disney Font and it was a little difficult to read. I love that Goo started shouting Disneyland (we have been working for a year to get him to understand the difference, and you can see without luck). Then my silly little one got silly and the giggle fits...see what I deal with EVERYDAY, no wonder why I have gray hair! Who knew dad was going to head to the boys bathroom right when they were instructed to go brush teeth and comb hair? By the end you know that my brilliant daughter is a true blonde to the roots...I am still amazed that she could not but the puzzle together...and she loves puzzles. I was so happy with the excitement that I shut the camera off and lost a lot of fun reactions and conversations about getting out the door and to the airport.

So after the shock wears off, we have 15 minutes to quickly clean up the living room, get things to the dumpster, and get the kids out the door.

Will Ab want to go back to bed?

Will we get out the door or will my nightmares come true?

Did I mention that I had been tracking the weather for months...did I mention that snow is steadily falling outside?

[shocky5]

Keep going..... you really do have a knack for storytelling - must be where Ab gets it! :thumbsup2

The reveal video is great! You did a great job putting it all together! And I'm so happy that your kids did not figure it out!!! :goodvibes

[momabaarjo]

Keep going..... you really do have a knack for storytelling - must be where Ab gets it! :thumbsup2

The reveal video is great! You did a great job putting it all together! And I'm so happy that your kids did not figure it out!!! :goodvibes

Translation...I am full of hot air! :rotfl: Thanks friend...I appreciate you following along! I hope some day we meet...I wish you lived closer than 6 hours...our families are way too alike and I think we would all be fast real friends!

Do you guys ever head to Red River, NM?

[FosterA]

How fun!! loved the video, you did a great job. I thought the Disney part would be revealed in this segment but I guess that's in the 3rd part right? I'm guessing at the Denver airport, you'll surprise them. Can't wait!!!

[21hearts]

That was awesome.

[lovethattink]

Love the reveal!! Anakin watched it with me and he wants his Christmas presents to come with clues.

[veggiemama]

What an Awesome reveal! loved the you tube video of it :goodvibes

The kids almost seemed frustrated by the amount of presents inside of presents at one point :rotfl:

[shocky5]

Translation...I am full of hot air! :rotfl: Thanks friend...I appreciate you following along! I hope some day we meet...I wish you lived closer than 6 hours...our families are way too alike and I think we would all be fast real friends!

Do you guys ever head to Red River, NM?

I agree! We have never been to Red River but talk about taking our kids every year! Eddie's family is just north of you 2 hours. And my aunt lives in Amarillo so one of these days I just need to make a point to get over there and get in touch with you!

But most definitely our families would click very well!

[swwake]

I don't know if we will look at Disney or 'another cruise line' but we've never been on one and it is appealing! So any tips you may have... I can help you with cruise tips. Just give me a starting point - questions? (Maybe we should take this to your TR or FB? - haha)

Okay, both of you way to make me jealous...other than the work traveling it is going to be a quiet summer...all I see in my travel plans is in the truck back and forth to the cabin! So I guess I will have to live through you and your travels cause I need a new car, the cabin needs to be expanded, and oh yeah I need new living room furniture (but if I buy that from Ashley Furniture...they always run a summer trip promotion if you purchase...so maybe there is hope).

What Ann may go to WDW this fall and now Susan...I guess I will just wait until 2013 to go with all of you!But you have a cabin!!!!!

[swwake]

Just watched the reveal video. Awesome! I don't know how you got all that done and were ready to fly at 7:15! Can't wait to hear about their reactions when they found it it wasn't snowboarding.

[petals]

Love the reveal video.

And snow on Christmas. Love it I'm still waiting for our snow that was meant to come last October to arrive :lmao:

[Grumpy's Wife]

What a cute idea. I can't wait to see how they find out where they are really going.

[annmarieda]

Ann/Tammie - we've been looking at cruises, too... probably be a July trip but funny that all of our minds have shifted in that direction. Surely it's becasue of Susan's girls cruise not too long ago! :thumbsup2

LOL, don't read too much into me looking into cruises. True, I am very intrigued by them... but I am always looking at airfare and stays..somewhere. I think being a travel agent would be the best job in the world!

I'm looking at cruises too, but not a Disney cruise. I will include more about that when I get to the end of my TR. I can't plan anything as far as personal travel until we get our Germany trip confirmed, or confirm we're not going to Germany. Should know that in a couple of month. Then I may add a short cruise or a Disney F&W trip in the fall. Not sure yet.

AH! Looks very likely that we are going in the fall. If both of us do..and our dates are the same... we HAVE to plan a dismeet, kay? :goodvibes

I don't know if we will look at Disney or 'another cruise line' but we've never been on one and it is appealing! So any tips you may have...

You are such the world traveler! I love that! :thumbsup2 I would love to do the F&W... oh wait... Oct. 2013! :thumbsup2

:woohoo: for 2013!!

Reveal Phase 2

Remember at the start of the Advent Countdown (Phase 1), Kirby tipped the kids off that the present they get on Christmas would give them lots of lift...So the kids are still thinking we are going skiing and our plane does route through Denver…gotta love that and we need to get around and out the door before 7:15…how am I going to manage this?

[ENTER PRESENT, CHRISTMAS TREE RIGHT]

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/lonechristmaspresent.jpg

Finally, Goo realizes that there is a present next to the tree and Boo quickly lets him know it is for all 3 of them. The boys demand to open it, but Ab is still ready to go back to bed, and of course I promised her that once Santa and stocking was over she could go back to bed...all eyes turn on her and Goo gives his best puppy dog eyes. Will she give in and stay up a little longer? She can't resist her littlest brother, with those eyes...:yay: She agrees and the kids ask us if they can open it...and of course we agree cause I am looking at the clock and projecting that it is going to take 30 minutes for this gift (you already know why from my lasts posts). Well here is what happened...and for those of you trying to read the cards...the kids will tell you what they say.

I apologize now for the poor video quality...I forgot to turn on more lights than just the tree, a table lamp, and the television...but you will get the reaction from them. Remember that Goo and Boo have never been on a plane before.

LINK TO YOUTUBE VIDEO OF PHASE 2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiEvtyg_C5E&feature=youtu.be)

Put it all together and you get…Plane Ride to Denver today at 7:15 am. They then opened their gifts and found new ski hats…well it might get cold in Orlando at night, right and they still do not know that is final destination...Denver is just a layover and a plane change.

Reflections: Okay so to start if off there was a tape flaw...I have no idea why they could not open into the 2nd box (I swear I did not use that much tape). Next, reading issues...honest Boo is a very good reader...I just happened to use the Walt Disney Font and it was a little difficult to read. I love that Goo started shouting Disneyland (we have been working for a year to get him to understand the difference, and you can see without luck). Then my silly little one got silly and the giggle fits...see what I deal with EVERYDAY, no wonder why I have gray hair! Who knew dad was going to head to the boys bathroom right when they were instructed to go brush teeth and comb hair? By the end you know that my brilliant daughter is a true blonde to the roots...I am still amazed that she could not but the puzzle together...and she loves puzzles. I was so happy with the excitement that I shut the camera off and lost a lot of fun reactions and conversations about getting out the door and to the airport.

So after the shock wears off, we have 15 minutes to quickly clean up the living room, get things to the dumpster, and get the kids out the door.

Will Ab want to go back to bed?

Will we get out the door or will my nightmares come true?

Did I mention that I had been tracking the weather for months...did I mention that snow is steadily falling outside?

First.. kinda sorry to hijack there above..

Second!!!!! :yay::yay::yay::yay: That reveal was awesome. I can't wait to see how the rest of the day unfolds!! I had dd watching the video with me and she begged me to surprise her next time. :rolleyes: That is kinda hard to do since we are always dreaming up our next disney trip here in our house.

[lovethattink]

Just adding my two cents on the cruise comments. A Disney cruise is awesome!!! I preferred the Disney cruises we went on to the WDW stays we have had.

[Sara1Babe]

I cant wait to hear how the kids reacted when they found out they were going to WDW and HP.....eeepppp this is edge of your seat stuff:rotfl2:

[momabaarjo]

Please forgive me for not doing a good job lately on posting new updates...trying to still get back on some type of schedule. I have typed a bunch of updates...so look for lots of new posts over the next couple of days!

[momabaarjo]

Will This Flight Get Off?
Let it NOT Snow, Let it NOT SNOW

I have to tell you that once the video went off the funny stuff started happening...dang missed all that! Ab started questioning me what I had packed...teenage girls and their clothes (this is the first time I can remember that she worried about clothes since being used to uniforms the discussions, err arguments, always seem to surround purchasing regular street clothes). I assured her that her new ski outfit was packed and then she wanted to know when I packed. Much to my children's shock they had not realized that I took a day off from school this past week and while they were at the movies yesterday I finished up. We managed to get out the door with 5 minutes to spare only to have my fears begin to mount when I saw how much snow was actually falling. This had me worried...how many Christmas has it been brown but the Christmas I want to fly out we are having a white Christmas....figures....and probably serves me right for stalking Farmers Almanac and the weather channel since October! During our drive my cell phone goes off, who on earth would be calling me at this time (other than family)…it comes up a Florida number?! I answer hesitantly and it is Tony our hired driver. He must of thought I was some kind of nut case because honestly I was not thinking of our arrival just yet and I was not sure how to disguise the call with the kids listening in the back seat. Somehow I managed to stumble through and tell him to call back in about 30 minutes. The rest of the trip to the airport (all 15 minutes of it was pretty much a blur of me reassuring Ab that I packed this or I had packed that and calming Boo is suddenly insecure about flying...for once my non-stop talker Goo was quiet...new ipod did the trick, remind me to thank Santa). We got to the airport and I had already thought ahead as to what I would do once we got to the check in counter so the kids did not know we were going to Orlando (I had a note saying...Shhhh our final stop is Orlando with our flight information). Guess what I did not need that, the kids sat down on seats while Jeff and I went through the check in line...we have a small regional airport and the person checking us in, Melissa, just happened to be a friend from church and she already know about the surprise! Check in went really smooth...considering I was sweating the luggage weigh in part...but we were okay (I think Melissa gave us a pass)!

Our next stop was security, which always is a challenge even with a 1 check point line and a husband that wears work boots and 2 boys that had really never been inside of the airport carrying travel bags stuffed (a TSA agents worst nightmare to scan). I quickly explained to the boys what was happening, sent Ab through the line and then the boys while Jeff struggled with his boots...of course I wore slip ons! But this is Texas so the boots never phase TSA...and of course I did a lot of nagging about lighters and pocket knives prior to the trip (keep that in the back of your mind) so we did not have to worry about that mess. Just as I go through the line, Tony is calling back. I point Jeff towards the gate area with the kids while I lingered behind trying to find all my flight information to confirm with Tony. Being that this is a small regional airport we have 1 terminal, if you can call it that it is simply 4 gates in one huge room. I was pretty excited about seeing th new terminal...it just opened this fall and had been underconstruction for almost 3 years (prior we had 2 typical terminal wings at each end of the airport and lots of unused gates). After confirming with Tony, I found everyone rummaging through their bags near our gate...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/xbooairport.jpg
(A much better picture of the hats that they got in the reveal...of course someone needs to tell my children that they are inside not outside.:cool1:)

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/xabairport.jpg
(Don't you gut love the sunglasses at 7:45 in the morning along with being inside plus the fact of their size and color...teenage fashion statement. :rotfl2:)

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/gooandnewipod-1.jpg
(About the only time the next 10 hours he is quiet!)


... it was then that my fears began to mount once again as the snow pile up outside...if it is snowing here, what is it like in Denver? I quickly made a call to my mom north of the Denver area and wish her Merry Christmas and check on the weather...yes they have snow but only a dusting...looks like if we get out of our town to Denver we should not have issues. I notice on the flight board that the flight that I had originally booked for later in the morning was now showing cancelled...our plane is at the gate (left from last night) so at least we have a plane here. Joseph and I walk over and watch another flight prepare to leave the gate…and then watch it being de-iced.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/xgooairportwatching.jpg

Melissa who is now serving as gate agent assures me that our flight will take off and sure enough right on time we begin boarding. I go ahead first trying to explain to the boys what is happening and how to find their seats…on this flight all the kids get a window seat for this flight the plane is only 3 seats across. Ab and Jeff sit in seats in front of us while I am in the center between the Boo and Goo. Boo starts getting nervous while Goo is being his usually non stop talking self asking questions and making fun of Boo freaking out. And Ab is not helping the situation with her being the authority on flying over her brothers and of course Jeff is being a typical dad ignoring all around him...I am a wreck! We pull out of the gate on time, but what happens next threatens my timetable once we land in Denver. Remember it is snowing and by this time not lightly anymore!

[veggiemama]

Ah Tammie, you are the queen of cliff hanger endings!! :rotfl::rotfl:

Can't wait to find out how flying went and I can't even imagine the kids excitement once they find out that they are actually going to WDW. I honestly don't know how you managed to NOT tell them!!:worship:

[lovethattink]

Definately the Queen of Cliffhangers. Boy, how I wish I knew the tag fairy!!! She needs a tag! Oh tag fairy, where are you?! ;)

Glad the snow didn't thwart your start. Hanging to the edge of my seat to see how Denver went.

[reelmom]

I do not like flying either. I don't know what I would do if it were snowing while I was taking off.

[midwest2wdw]

Enjoying your report. Looking forward to what happens next.

[petals]

Love the airport update and the hats indoors. I esp love the hat and sunglasses look!

[FosterA]

yay! Glad you have some updates typed up and ready to go. I look every day hoping to see updates. Can't wait to hear more!

[tankgirl427]

I'm so loving your TR so far. I'm :mad: at you for the cliff hangers but its all so good including the surprise video I can't be! Another update please!!!!

[sl_underwood]

Glad to see an update! cant wait for more!

[MrsFerrell]

love it! cant wait to hear... er... read more

[momabaarjo]

Boo and Goo's First Flight:
The First Flight of Our Trip
OR as my children titled the flight...
WHY CAN'T WE GO TO COLORADO THIS WAY ALL THE TIME??? BEATS 8 HOURS IN THE CAR!!!

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/034.jpg
Our plane prior to boarding...

Remember the plane before had to be de-iced, well so did ours…so much for pulling out of the gate on time. Our plane now goes through de-icing which according to the pilot is going to make us about 30 minutes late into Denver. Right about then I needed those overhead masks to come down, breathe, breathe it is going to be okay…you can still switch terminals, eat breakfast and do the final reveal…you have time…no the 2 hours you planned for, but still plenty of time...looks like fast food instead of the sit down restaurant you picked out.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/goofirstflight.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/boofirstflight.jpg

The flight was pretty uneventful, unless you count Goo’s non stop talking, his and my fight over putting down the window shade, and the kids had a great time picking out from the air all the landmarks that we drive past but are now seeing from the air…yes where I live it is that easy to pick out the landmarks…Mt. Capulin, Pikes Peak and before we know it we see the flatirons above Denver and Long’s Peak.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/036.jpg
This is Pikes Peak located above Colorado Springs

The kids are amazed that we are in Denver so fast, remember they are used to the 8-9 hour car trip north and quickly decide this is the way from now on to get to Colorado. We land pretty uneventful, but Boo announces that he is going to kiss the ground and for him he will get the chance because our flight is one of those you have to walk down the stairs of the plane and then walk to the gate to get to the terminal inside. I check my watch and we are 30 minutes late just as announced, but I am feeling good because I have checked out where we need to go ahead of time (change terminals) and from experience know how to get around DIA…

with me in the lead we head into the terminal and run right into what I was not expecting....yes another cliff hanger :rotfl2:

[momabaarjo]

How fun!! loved the video, you did a great job. I thought the Disney part would be revealed in this segment but I guess that's in the 3rd part right? I'm guessing at the Denver airport, you'll surprise them. Can't wait!!!

Thanks...yes final reveal in a couple of days...I still have to piece that video together and upload to youtuve!

That was awesome.

Thank you! It was fun...

Love the reveal!! Anakin watched it with me and he wants his Christmas presents to come with clues.

I think that is a good idea...it was fun to think up and a great way to get us out of the house.

What an Awesome reveal! loved the you tube video of it :goodvibes

The kids almost seemed frustrated by the amount of presents inside of presents at one point :rotfl:

I know I am pure evil sometimes....

I agree! We have never been to Red River but talk about taking our kids every year! Eddie's family is just north of you 2 hours. And my aunt lives in Amarillo so one of these days I just need to make a point to get over there and get in touch with you!

But most definitely our families would click very well!

You guys need to come! Jeff and I had our wedding reception in the ski lodge there! Your aunt lives in Amarillo? I hope it is an aunt you like...might head your direction this summer...my mom wants to go to Branson.

I can help you with cruise tips. Just give me a starting point - questions? (Maybe we should take this to your TR or FB? - haha)

But you have a cabin!!!!!

I know and I love the cabin, but I also love to go places!

Just watched the reveal video. Awesome! I don't know how you got all that done and were ready to fly at 7:15! Can't wait to hear about their reactions when they found it it wasn't snowboarding.

Hee Hee...it is not what you think is going to happen!

Love the reveal video.

And snow on Christmas. Love it I'm still waiting for our snow that was meant to come last October to arrive :lmao:

It was not predicted...our weatherman stink!

What a cute idea. I can't wait to see how they find out where they are really going.

Thank you...stay tuned a couple more days!

LOL, don't read too much into me looking into cruises. True, I am very intrigued by them... but I am always looking at airfare and stays..somewhere. I think being a travel agent would be the best job in the world!

I think that would be a great job too!

AH! Looks very likely that we are going in the fall. If both of us do..and our dates are the same... we HAVE to plan a dismeet, kay? :goodvibes

What....in the fall as a family?


:woohoo: for 2013!!

I have it marked on a list a made for the next 5 years where I want to go and how much I need to save!

First.. kinda sorry to hijack there above..

Love the hijacks!

Second!!!!! :yay::yay::yay::yay: That reveal was awesome. I can't wait to see how the rest of the day unfolds!! I had dd watching the video with me and she begged me to surprise her next time. :rolleyes: That is kinda hard to do since we are always dreaming up our next disney trip here in our house.

Surprise her, I think that she would love it!

Just adding my two cents on the cruise comments. A Disney cruise is awesome!!! I preferred the Disney cruises we went on to the WDW stays we have had.

But they are so $$$$$ :sad2:

I cant wait to hear how the kids reacted when they found out they were going to WDW and HP.....eeepppp this is edge of your seat stuff:rotfl2:

Give me a couple more days!

[momabaarjo]

Ah Tammie, you are the queen of cliff hanger endings!! :rotfl::rotfl:

Can't wait to find out how flying went and I can't even imagine the kids excitement once they find out that they are actually going to WDW. I honestly don't know how you managed to NOT tell them!!:worship:

I am pure evil...that is how I can keep secrets! But let me tell you by Christmas Eve I was ready to burst!

Definately the Queen of Cliffhangers. Boy, how I wish I knew the tag fairy!!! She needs a tag! Oh tag fairy, where are you?! ;)

Glad the snow didn't thwart your start. Hanging to the edge of my seat to see how Denver went.

WHAT IS A TAG????I know I am not so smart with computer lingo!
I do not like flying either. I don't know what I would do if it were snowing while I was taking off.

The snow did not bother me much, it was not making the flight in Denver that worried me!

Enjoying your report. Looking forward to what happens next.

Glad you are hanging in there with me...

Love the airport update and the hats indoors. I esp love the hat and sunglasses look!

:rotfl2:Yep, that was her look most of the trip...

yay! Glad you have some updates typed up and ready to go. I look every day hoping to see updates. Can't wait to hear more!

Sorry...life is crazy but I see blue skies coming and a little more time than the last couple of weeks.

I'm so loving your TR so far. I'm :mad: at you for the cliff hangers but its all so good including the surprise video I can't be! Another update please!!!!

Love you Besty...hope not to make you too mad so you stick with me and we can travel in 2013 together!

Glad to see an update! cant wait for more!

Ask and you shall recieve...updated again this morning

love it! cant wait to hear... er... read more

Check out the update above...we will get to Orlando by this weekend!!!:woohoo:

[Grumpy's Wife]

OMG we are so close. I need to know, I need to know. :rolleyes1

[Leger13]

Oh no not another cliff hanger. Your TR is gonna give me heart burn :rotfl:

[Sara1Babe]

So close yet so far away. I am loving this EPIC tale of yours.

[reelmom]

OMG we are so close. I need to know, I need to know. :rolleyes1

I feel the same way!

[annmarieda]

OMG! you and your cliff hangers!!!

I love that the flight was so short and you normally drive it. We have done that too (it takes us about 6 hours to get to our family on the other side of the state and flying takes and hour) What I tell my family though... although the flight takes an hour... we have to be there 2 hours before the flight (now up to 3) and the hour drive to the airport. (now up to 4) and if everyone would just not need to use every darn rest stop...then we could shave an hour off the drive (now the difference is only an hour) So... while the travel time for us is nice it really doesn't save much and it is more costly to fly. :rolleyes:

I had to laugh at Ab in her hat and :cool2: Total teen!!! :rotfl2:

[sl_underwood]

Come on... how many days does it take to get to the reveal? :rotfl2:

[Monknmom]

Oh goodness.. those are alot of trips!

And yes... ladies trip is keeping me going as well!

I keep thinking of all of the things that we missed that people ask me if we did and I just tell them nope- but I plan to do them when we go or our girls trip!



I can't believe how far behind on your report that I am! I am scared to go into Ann's now!
Those mickey waffles looked really yummy! And it sounds like you had a good plan with your MIL-- she gets to watch them open something and then the trip stuff they open on Christmas! They sound beatiful together! They must have practiced a lot together? That's a way to bring them together! I love when the presents are under the tree and it looks pretty--- I wonder if anyone else ever just likes to keep it like that because K doesn't care (not his holiday) and Damien just wants to rip the presents open! Damien wants an Ipod... where do you get the refurbished ones? Maybe I will give that to him for Valentine's day? I am a little happy that I haven't been on to read because well you had so many wrapped boxes and I have little to no paitience (just kidding)! That video was so nice! Damien heard it playing and watched it with me... he wishes that Santa and Mickey let him go on a plane too! Oh Ann I want to be a travel agent too! I just don't know anything about flights! I am looking into just traveling local this year (maybe Maine for some camping) because we have to get the kitchen and bath done (and maybe even the deck turned into the living room-if not this year than next year)! I love the big sunglasses and winter hat look-- big fashonista! Oh my goodness I am so sorry that you had that much trouble with the plane! I can't even imagine! And what is with these cliff hangers? You write like those books I hate/like-- you have a good chapter and turn the page to find out what happened and it's a whole other chapter..... But it's good because now I can see/read on time what happened! I'm all caught up with you!

[momabaarjo]

DIA Preparing Us for a Week of Christmas Crowds in Orlando

What I had not planned for was the CROWD OF PEOPLE ON CHRISTMAS MORNING AT DIA…what do these people not have places to be at, why is everyone traveling today? I was shocked on how many people were in the airport. I glance back at Jeff and tell him to grab Jo and bring up the rear…which seemed to be where he was the entire trip, bringing up the rear and not doing a very good job at it. I make my way through the terminal towards the subway entrance. What I had forgotten was that the boys had never seen the inside of a HUGE airport and everything was something of fascination for them…but we have to keep moving I keep yelling inside my mind once we get to the new gate then we can stop and smell the roses. I am really trying to have patience…we finally dodge and weave our way around people and get to the subway with everyone still accounted for. Whew, as we wait I announce that lets change terminals and see if there is a less crowded place to get breakfast that maybe waiting until we left the airport would not be a good idea since we know that the airport restaurants will be open and who knows what will be open on our way to the condo. Jeff agrees that this is a good plan, and the kids buy the terminal change hook, line and sinker. One step closer to the final reveal. The subway doors open and Goo turns into a crazy boy…remember this is new to him and the subway holds a new fascination and of course he has to stand…both Jeff and I yell at him to hold onto the pole as the doors close, but guess who is having too much fun checking it all out and ends up on the floor moments after departing?! Thankfully he thought that being thrown to the floor was fun and can’t wait to try that again! He exact words were "AWESOME" while he does his signature head movement and hand gestures.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/IMG_8507.jpg

The ride to the next terminal is quick, too quick…did not have time to find out which gate we are departing from so somehow I am going to have to look at the boards without being caught…quickly I run the ABCs through my head…O for Orlando near the middle. Once again, I am in the lead and up the escalator we go into Terminal A at the top I spot the boards and just out of fun I turn to Abigail and ask her if she could go anywhere where would it be…as I run through the list to find our flight, which for once I found quickly for a change.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/board.jpg

Jeff looks around and spots a McDonalds and I notice that our gate is the first one after McDonalds but there are not seats open. Why don’t we head to the first gate, there is bound to be room to sit down then we can decide what to do. The gate on the opposite to Orlando is for Mexico City and it is vacant…the kids, tired of the OJ Simpson run to switch terminals melt into a seat unaware that the board directly behind them reads “ORLANDO.” About then Ab’s phone goes off with a text…it is cousin Austin wanting to know if we have landed yet, they are waiting. Perfect timing, Ab wants to know if they can just eat the snacks in their bags for breakfast after all the condo is only 2 hours away and she wants to ski today. I agree that would be fine and so does Jeff, who adds that this crowd is making him crazy (if you think this bad, just wait) but tells them there is one more present they need to open before we can go meet the cousins as I reach in my bag for the props for the final reveal...

[momabaarjo]

OMG we are so close. I need to know, I need to know. :rolleyes1

Oh no not another cliff hanger. Your TR is gonna give me heart burn :rotfl:

So close yet so far away. I am loving this EPIC tale of yours.

I had not intended to string everyone along for this week, but between soccer for Goo, Track season starting for Ab/Cheer season ending, Wrestling with Boo...time has been short. I wanted to keep everyone reading and not post for a week...I promise the final reveal will be up tomorrow (tonight I plan on working on the youtube video) and by Sunday we should arrive at MCO.

I so hope you are not disappointed by the reveal video...

[momabaarjo]

OMG! you and your cliff hangers!!!

I love that the flight was so short and you normally drive it. We have done that too (it takes us about 6 hours to get to our family on the other side of the state and flying takes and hour) What I tell my family though... although the flight takes an hour... we have to be there 2 hours before the flight (now up to 3) and the hour drive to the airport. (now up to 4) and if everyone would just not need to use every darn rest stop...then we could shave an hour off the drive (now the difference is only an hour) So... while the travel time for us is nice it really doesn't save much and it is more costly to fly. :rolleyes:


Hour drive to airport, 3 hours before....no thank you I think I would be driving too...for us 15 minute drive, usually just the hour to 45 minutes before does the trick! But when we get to Denver that is another story it is 2 hours to get out of the airport with a rental car and then another 1 1/2 on the road...

I had to laugh at Ab in her hat and :cool2: Total teen!!! :rotfl2:

:rotfl2:I know that hat and sunglasses are killing me too...watch for updates later on the sunglasses!

[momabaarjo]

Come on... how many days does it take to get to the reveal? :rotfl2:

Please hang in there with me...where in OK are you?

[momabaarjo]

I keep thinking of all of the things that we missed that people ask me if we did and I just tell them nope- but I plan to do them when we go or our girls trip!



I can't believe how far behind on your report that I am! I am scared to go into Ann's now!
Those mickey waffles looked really yummy! And it sounds like you had a good plan with your MIL-- she gets to watch them open something and then the trip stuff they open on Christmas! They sound beatiful together! They must have practiced a lot together? That's a way to bring them together! I love when the presents are under the tree and it looks pretty--- I wonder if anyone else ever just likes to keep it like that because K doesn't care (not his holiday) and Damien just wants to rip the presents open! Damien wants an Ipod... where do you get the refurbished ones? Maybe I will give that to him for Valentine's day? I am a little happy that I haven't been on to read because well you had so many wrapped boxes and I have little to no paitience (just kidding)! That video was so nice! Damien heard it playing and watched it with me... he wishes that Santa and Mickey let him go on a plane too! Oh Ann I want to be a travel agent too! I just don't know anything about flights! I am looking into just traveling local this year (maybe Maine for some camping) because we have to get the kitchen and bath done (and maybe even the deck turned into the living room-if not this year than next year)! I love the big sunglasses and winter hat look-- big fashonista! Oh my goodness I am so sorry that you had that much trouble with the plane! I can't even imagine! And what is with these cliff hangers? You write like those books I hate/like-- you have a good chapter and turn the page to find out what happened and it's a whole other chapter..... But it's good because now I can see/read on time what happened! I'm all caught up with you!

Heather I am behind on everyones...I am going to try to get caught up this weekend! I am so missing everyone!


I understanding missing things...cliff hanger, wait until my final reflections of the trip and we will address this issue!

I can't wait for 2013! :woohoo:

All the cliffhangers were not planned...trust me when we actually get to the trip it is pretty normal and boring! I just have not had the time to get videos and pictures put together and I did not want to lose followers for not posting for a week! Plus, you guys said to drag it out until we could start a PTR together! :rotfl:

Ipod...I stalked ebay for a while and you can get some older models pretty cheap (even had one but the person never shipped and I filed a complaint and got my money back), but DH is an expert pawn shop junky and found this one for us! I think it is a generation 2...and had not very much memory, but it works for him and I don't freak out over it being left on a bed!

[Leger13]

I had not intended to string everyone along for this week, but between soccer for Goo, Track season starting for Ab/Cheer season ending, Wrestling with Boo...time has been short. I wanted to keep everyone reading and not post for a week...I promise the final reveal will be up tomorrow (tonight I plan on working on the youtube video) and by Sunday we should arrive at MCO.

I so hope you are not disappointed by the reveal video...

:rotfl: sssuuurrrreeeee. Excuses excuses! DIS is more important. Didn't you know that?? LOL I'm SO j/k. :hug:

[FosterA]

awwww Goo looks so cute and is so excited about everything already. Can't even imagine how he's going to be at Disney!
Tammie...you have said a couple times that the actual trip part of the TR isn't all that exciting and maybe even boring but that is so not true. Us Dis/TR reading-freaks like all the little details and wont think it's boring. I promise! I thought my TR was pretty uneventful and boring too but alot of people liked it. Us Disers are ez to please:laughing:
I can totally picture Jeff at the airport being frustrated with the crowds because that's soooo my husband too! They are brothers from another motha!:laughing:

[Monknmom]

Damien's first subway reaction was like that of Ann's family she watched! It was horrible so be glad that his was good! LOL the cliffhangers weren't planned? You did them so well though!!! LOL what the heck we can start the PTR whenever... we kinda did on facebook no? i have been thinking of giving him mine and upgrading for myself, but mine was a little over $200 and only like 2 years old he doesn't need all of that! So I am going to try to stalk like you did for a pretty good one! Thank you!

[annmarieda]

I still am in awe that you pulled off the kids not knowing. Seatac is a large airport, but it wouldn't matter.. my kids (including Zoe) would see the gate and know where we were headed. Course, they have all flown before...so maybe that is the difference.

I just can't wait for the final reveal!!!!:yay::yay:

[lovethattink]

I can't wait either!!

Are you related to any of the Lost writers? ;)

[sl_underwood]

:happytv:

[petals]

You know how to build the moment :goodvibes can't wait to see final reveal

[addictedtothemouse]

Ok I'm all caught up, you may procede with the reveal now. :snooty: :rotfl:

I can't wait to see the kids' reactions. :goodvibes

[momabaarjo]

ARE YOU READY?

I sure hope with all the build up that this does not disappoint anyone!

[momabaarjo]

After a Year of Planning I Can Finally SCREAM..."We're Going to Disney World!!!"


Where did we leave off? Oh yeah, the final reveal props. I had made little cards for each of the kids inviting them to a special event during our trip that they would be interested in and attached them to our family tradition of Hammond’s candy canes.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/IMG_2303.jpg
Ab-Invitation to a dolphin swim
Boo-Acceptance letter to Hogswart
Goo-Letter from Lightning McQueen

LINK TO YOUTUBE VIDEO OF PHASE 3: Final Reveal
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmhEXPDfnzc&feature=plcp&context=C3e57daaUDOEgsToPDskICCMRySs_KDyYW5_xKu6bA

Not the jumping up and down reaction that I was dreaming of…as you can see I have one child telling me she knew it all the time, one child once again in shock/disbelief, and one child jumping up and down. It was even funnier when I told them to turn around and read the sign. Jeff quickly took their orders and they all headed to McDonalds. I wish that I gone with them because Jeff said the conversation with them about the trip was funny. I guess dad got all the real excitement in line at McDonalds…figures he does nothing and get all the true reaction. I sink in a seat and suddenly I realize the last 12 months of planning are really unfolding. Jeff and the kids come back with a sack full of Egg McMuffins (and cinammon rolls for Ab) and we proceed to have a breakfast picnic right there at the gate.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/breakfastpicnic.jpg


I question Ab that if she knew everything, why did she not say anything…her response, I did not want to ruin your surprise…ahhh, proof that this teenage girl does not always think of herself. Did I mention that during our breakfast texts and calls kept pouring in on our phones wanting to know how the kids reacted? Thanks friends for waiting and not making me try to cover up more today!

Reflections of the Reveal: I am a bad at capturing the moment on video…just when I think the excitement is over I shut the camera off only to miss great little bits. As you see from the video, it take Boo once again a long time to process what is unfolding around him. He cracked us up with, “You mean we aren’t going to Mr. Biggs?” Mr. Biggs is an indoor playground (video games, bowling, pizza, karoke, laser tag, go carts) like Chuck E Cheese in Colorado Springs…for the last couple of years we have spent New Year’s Eve there with the cousins…Jeff is right WDW makes Mr. Biggs look like Mr. Small. Boo is usually my more animated child, I cannot believe that we had him in shock! Ab’s face during the reveal was priceless…I love her smiling when she realizes that her guess was right!

After we finished eating, I handed each of the kids the travel books I had made outlining the whole trip.


http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/038.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/037.jpg


LINK TO BOOKS in PTR
http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43423461&postcount=1781

There was lots of our we really doing there and doing that…lots of little squeals of delight which made the time go by really fast and before we knew it we were boarding our flight non-stop flight to Orlando.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/orlandoflight.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/frontier.jpg

The seating arrangements on this flight were similar except this time there was 6 seats across.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/boowatch.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/abandjeffwatch.jpg

Jeff and Ab sat behind us in the middle and window seat, while I sat on the isle with Goo in the center and Boo by the window…can you say fight between the boys until I guaranteed Goo that Boo would switch with him ½ way through the flight and then the boys discovered the TV monitor embedded in each seat in front of them. We settled into the flight fairly quickly and before I knew it, time to figure out how to pay for the movie…Guess what was showing…Harry Potter 7.2!

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/harrypotter.jpg

It took me several attempts but finally I got the movie to play and the boys became engrossed, thank goodness because Goo has not stopped talking all morning and I had a little time to journal the events of the morning…I began regretting the seating arrangement because Jeff was getting 3 hours and 45 minutes of peace sitting next to Abigail (who only is interested in the movie and her new book from her travel bag)... while I got 3 hours and 45 minutes of boys (Goo's non stop talking and Boo complaining about Goo interrupting his movie)! If you ask Goo, the favorite thing of the entire flight was checking out the bathroom and the warm chocolate chip cookies! Of course ½ way into the movie Goo gets bored and I do my best to keep him entertained the next 2 ½ hours,

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/goolooksatstuff.jpg



until...WHAT DID YOU EXPECT, now that the reveal is over I have to keep you following along somehow! :rotfl:

[annmarieda]

OMG! That was awesome. It makes me want to be in that moment again... you know, the moment where all the planning is over and the trip is all right before you...instead of behind.

AB looked like a cat that swallowed the canary! :rotfl2: And Boo... :rotfl: Too funny, he just seemed like your "new" plans totally through him.

You did such a great job!

And your flight... I get being where you were. Last time I flew with Alex and Zoe... I sat between them. (not at all fun) While dh sat alone with the then 17 year old.

Can't wait to read more!!!popcorn::

[lovethattink]

Awesome reveal!!!

[Grumpy's Wife]

Priceless! I'm so glad it went as you intended.

[petals]

Love the reveal! Bet she didn't know but she was just letting on she did! :goodvibes Woo can't wait to read the rest of your disney trip now :)

[sl_underwood]

Great reveal... and more cliffhangers... :rotfl:

[veggiemama]

Great Reveal! I love how in shock they all were! :rotfl2:

thank goodness for tv screens on the plane. Had my kids entertained all flight as well. warm cookies?? How do you manage a thing like that! :rotfl:

[momabaarjo]

Dinner & a Movie Night:
Snowball Express
January 29, 2012

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/title-1.jpg

The kids have been begging to get start doing dinner and a movie night since we got home. In fact, they asked on the plane home if we were going to continue doing movie nights (how could I resist?). I am going to scale back and just do the dinner and the movie part, unless I find a craft we just have to do. It just seemed like the craft was rushed most of the time. So here is our first on since our trip...

Jeff and I both remember seeing Snowball Express as a children, which did not make the boys to excited to see and "old" movie (Ab was at a party), but it is movie night...so deal with it, right? I loved seeing Harry Morgan (of MASH fame) and I think I remember having a crush on Dean Jones (OMG) when I was little. In the end, I think the boys laughed the hardest of all of us...end fact they wanted to know if they could watch it again!

Menu:

Snowball Express Subs with a side of Skis
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/snowballsandwichesandasideofskis.jpg


Blizzard Fruit Salad
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/blizzardfruitsalad.jpg


White Out Drink
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/whiteoutdrink.jpg
(I had planned hot chocolate, but it was just too nice outside for that.)


Snowball Cookies
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/snowballs.jpg

[momabaarjo]

OMG! That was awesome. It makes me want to be in that moment again... you know, the moment where all the planning is over and the trip is all right before you...instead of behind.

Me too...in the moment of the trip...not before or the end, but enjoying the moment!

AB looked like a cat that swallowed the canary! :rotfl2: And Boo... :rotfl: Too funny, he just seemed like your "new" plans totally through him.

She was funny...and Boo, well my funny child who always has something to say was speechless...

You did such a great job!

thank you...

And your flight... I get being where you were. Last time I flew with Alex and Zoe... I sat between them. (not at all fun) While dh sat alone with the then 17 year old.

I figured I needed to take care of the boys since I am the one who flys the most and this was their first flight...does not pay to be nice sometimes!

Can't wait to read more!!!popcorn::

Awesome reveal!!!

thank you...I was looking at the pictures of the kids with Anakin yesterday...maybe we can do it all again someday

Priceless! I'm so glad it went as you intended.

thanks...not exactly the reaction but the plan went down well

Love the reveal! Bet she didn't know but she was just letting on she did! :goodvibes Woo can't wait to read the rest of your disney trip now :)

I think she had a pretty good clue, but she did not want her guess to be wrong and then be disappointed...

Great reveal... and more cliffhangers... :rotfl:

what did you expect? I hope I can figure how cliff hangers for the rest of the days!

Great Reveal! I love how in shock they all were! :rotfl2:

thank goodness for tv screens on the plane. Had my kids entertained all flight as well. warm cookies?? How do you manage a thing like that! :rotfl:

yes warm chocolate chip cookies...I guess that is Frontiers thing to do...they were pretty yummy!

[momabaarjo]

Bye Bye Plane, Hello MCO

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/byplane.jpg


This flight is seemingly endless and there is nothing to see out the window because of the cloud cover, until it becomes apparent that we are starting our descent and Goo’s ear start hurting, not just a little bit but enough to bring him in tears. I had not thought about that…we try gum, yawning, rubbing/pulling on them, try teaching him to blow through his ears…during the entire time Jeff is telling to do something I already have tried making matters worse (translation: making me mad)…the landing cannot some soon enough, finally his ears pop enough to give him some relief along with Orlando appearing out the window!

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/orlandospotted.jpg

Of course I have failed to mention that we are on a packed plane, near the back and my children are raring to go (okay, I am too). As we sit and wait Goo makes an observation out the window and announces to us and EVERYONE on the plane…that THERE IS THE MONORAIL to Disney…yes, he has spotted the mini monorail at MCO.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/minmonotail.jpg

Everyone on the plane gets quite a chuckle and an older man turns to Goo and thanks him for making his day! That was the best thing he had heard all day! We wish the crew "Merry Christmas"and the kids hand the flight attendants their candy canes! (How sweet and unknown to me...who has no clue that I need my camera).

And the next thing we know it is time to get on that mini monorail (for which Goo can't wait to try out), my mission is to collect our baggage and find Tony…but Jeff has other plans. Have a mentioned yet, that my dh has decided that on this trip is going to bring up the rear and we are always going to be waiting on him?

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/gooontram.jpg

We get off the mini monorail and there is...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/msotree.jpg

the Christmas tree I have seen in so many trip reports…the first of many trees I can’t wait to see…so I guess it was a good time that Jeff decided to use the bathroom because I got to take pictures of the tree standing still inside of snapping while walking past it, but the kids were not as patient as me but I know that we can wait here looking at the tree or stand at the baggage claim and wait looking at a non moving conveyor belt. Jeff appears out the bathroom and we are down the escalator where we find Tony waiting for us…how cool to have a sign with your name on it and a smiling face! Being that our first stop was not WDW, the ME was not an option and last time I was in Orlando I tried the Mears Shuttle and it took me over 2 hours to get from MCO to RPR at Universal AFTER we had picked up baggage…this time I knew better and hired a personal car (or in this case a van). Tony had come highly recommended on the DISboards and we were about to find out why! This man is a gem, friendly, helpful, early, and not very expensive! As we introduced ourselves he walked us over to the baggage claim and helped us get our bags and then it was off to his awaiting van! Within 20 minutes of stepping off the plane we were already on our way.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/loadingup.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/tony.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/tonysvan.jpg

Tony and Jeff instantly hit it off, but my husband can talk to anyone, anywhere…which on this trip sometimes was not a good thing! Tony kept us all laughing at his jokes and encouraging the kids to share their favorites, as well as giving us great tips until….

[momabaarjo]

Just a little ramblings today...cause I have the Disney Blues...thinking that a month ago we were watching Grinchmas at this time. So I have spent today looking at Disneyland...Cars opens this summer and I know Goo would love that, plus my mom has been hinting at a road trip in July (wondering if I could talk her into that) with the kids, how crazy would it be to do WDW and DL within 6 months of each other?

Part of me would love to go back to WDW as a family, but the other part of me wants to explore other places on this globe...but then I think about our trip and what we did not accomplish that it would be so much fun...so I started looking at cruises. On my bucket list is a cruise and the Disney ones look like so much fun but Christmas cruises are WAY out of my price range for next Christmas...so guess I will just have to do family drama! :rotfl:

Then I think about the furniture I need to replace this summer and the cabin expansion...but my new car has been pushed back another year (Jeff bought a new work truck yesterday...actually just added 3 more years onto his current financing...he needed and ended up STEALING basically a 2012).

[reelmom]

I would love to go on a Disney Cruise also. But I am not one to relax so I don't know if I would enjoy it as much as I like going to Disney World. I would rather go, go, go then sit by a pool and relax. We have planned out many trips to other destinations but always end up at Disney. Kids grow too fast and I enjoy making our memories at Disney.

[FosterA]

Tammie, I just love your updates!
The final reveal was awesome. I think AB might have know at ONE TIME OR ANOTHER but probably went back and forth on what she thought. I bet she still thought it was a ski trip when you were leaving your house. I bet she knew "something" was going to happen with Disney/Harry/Seaworld but probably didn't know exactly when???
Who knows....anyhoo....great reveal!

That driver ya'll got sounded great. So neat to be picked right up at the airport. Can't wait to hear more!

[Sam33]

I was on the edge of my seat the ENTIRE time reading this! So glad I was late joining in because waiting for each post would have been hard! I don't like suspense!
Great TR so far!

[petals]

That pain in the ear thing I can relate to. There was tears when we were landing as well it's so bad. I don't think anything works for it really.

Also that tree in MCO I got so excited when I saw that because totally was not expecting the airport to have christmas decorations for some reason :rotfl:

[MrsFerrell]

Loving your trip so far. I'm pricing travel from airport to Disney now. Is there anyway you can message me Tony's info/prices or share it on here? Thanks so much
:-)

[swwake]

I am finally caught up! I loved the reveal! And I recognized the Hammond's candy canes :)

[momabaarjo]

Loving your trip so far. I'm pricing travel from airport to Disney now. Is there anyway you can message me Tony's info/prices or share it on here? Thanks so much
:-)

I send you a private message...:love: we loved Tony!

[KP's Mom]

Hi - great report so far. I am really enjoying it.
Would you please send me Tony's contact info. Thanks and keep writing that report.

[lilpixiebabe101]

Love all the reveal stuff Tammie.

I have used the Multi wrapped present on my brother before! 3 years ago actually when he got his Ipod. Mom told me to wrap it crazy. So I wrapped, put it inside a bent up shoe box with a couple of other random little wrapped boxes, then a lipton tea box, and then like 4 more just random packing boxes. He got to the Lipton tea box and was sooooo confused! HE was sooo mad.

Excited to hear more!

[annmarieda]

Just a little ramblings today...cause I have the Disney Blues...thinking that a month ago we were watching Grinchmas at this time. So I have spent today looking at Disneyland...Cars opens this summer and I know Goo would love that, plus my mom has been hinting at a road trip in July (wondering if I could talk her into that) with the kids, how crazy would it be to do WDW and DL within 6 months of each other?

Part of me would love to go back to WDW as a family, but the other part of me wants to explore other places on this globe...but then I think about our trip and what we did not accomplish that it would be so much fun...so I started looking at cruises. On my bucket list is a cruise and the Disney ones look like so much fun but Christmas cruises are WAY out of my price range for next Christmas...so guess I will just have to do family drama! :rotfl:

Then I think about the furniture I need to replace this summer and the cabin expansion...but my new car has been pushed back another year (Jeff bought a new work truck yesterday...actually just added 3 more years onto his current financing...he needed and ended up STEALING basically a 2012).

First, sounds like your driver to Orlando was awesome :yay:

And, I have been looking at DL too... then wonder if it would be crazy to go there after just going to WDW AND planning a fall trip. I also battle with the cost. We really need to do some things around this house... but my kids will not be here for long. I am finding the days go by faster and faster and soon I will only have one of my 4 kids still at home. (I know... maybe ds will live with us till he is 40.. but oldest ds will be gone for good within the next year or so and oldest dd is off and married) Course, my fall trip will not be about the kids... well, not in the sense of "while they are young". So maybe I am just making up excuses in order to go to Disney :rolleyes:

[momabaarjo]

I am finally caught up! I loved the reveal! And I recognized the Hammond's candy canes :)

Hmmm...now where would you have seen those candy canes!

Hi - great report so far. I am really enjoying it.
Would you please send me Tony's contact info. Thanks and keep writing that report.

I sent you a PM!

Love all the reveal stuff Tammie.

I have used the Multi wrapped present on my brother before! 3 years ago actually when he got his Ipod. Mom told me to wrap it crazy. So I wrapped, put it inside a bent up shoe box with a couple of other random little wrapped boxes, then a lipton tea box, and then like 4 more just random packing boxes. He got to the Lipton tea box and was sooooo confused! HE was sooo mad.

Excited to hear more!

I loved doing it...I just have a little evil in me! Well...your mom told you to wrap it crazy so it was her fault....:rolleyes1

First, sounds like your driver to Orlando was awesome :yay:

He was, and I would not use ME if Tony is an option!

And, I have been looking at DL too... then wonder if it would be crazy to go there after just going to WDW AND planning a fall trip. I also battle with the cost. We really need to do some things around this house... but my kids will not be here for long. I am finding the days go by faster and faster and soon I will only have one of my 4 kids still at home. (I know... maybe ds will live with us till he is 40.. but oldest ds will be gone for good within the next year or so and oldest dd is off and married) Course, my fall trip will not be about the kids... well, not in the sense of "while they are young". So maybe I am just making up excuses in order to go to Disney :rolleyes:

You saw where my mind was today...no excuses needed with me...we are such enablers for each other. While going back to WDW is not high on my trip list anymore, I would love to go back...

Ab really wants a vacation on the beach and a cruise...we talked about Cabo, but that really is not a kids place...hmmm, I like my thinking, its all Ab's fault :rolleyes1 my mind wandered today and I bought that book!

[momabaarjo]

I would love to go on a Disney Cruise also. But I am not one to relax so I don't know if I would enjoy it as much as I like going to Disney World. I would rather go, go, go then sit by a pool and relax. We have planned out many trips to other destinations but always end up at Disney. Kids grow too fast and I enjoy making our memories at Disney.

Ab wants a vacation on a REAL beach...and a cruise. She is a laid back kinda girl and would love to sit on a beach somewhere and read. I like both going and relaxing...so many places so little $$$$.

Tammie, I just love your updates!
The final reveal was awesome. I think AB might have know at ONE TIME OR ANOTHER but probably went back and forth on what she thought. I bet she still thought it was a ski trip when you were leaving your house. I bet she knew "something" was going to happen with Disney/Harry/Seaworld but probably didn't know exactly when???
Who knows....anyhoo....great reveal!

That driver ya'll got sounded great. So neat to be picked right up at the airport. Can't wait to hear more!

She is a funny one...you never know what she is thinking or how she is going to react...on good thing is that she smiled for 2 weeks...

I was on the edge of my seat the ENTIRE time reading this! So glad I was late joining in because waiting for each post would have been hard! I don't like suspense!
Great TR so far!

Normally, I don't either...but this has been fun cause I know the outcome and I get to string others along. So glad you are joinining in!

That pain in the ear thing I can relate to. There was tears when we were landing as well it's so bad. I don't think anything works for it really.


I never have traveled on airplanes with little ones so this was a first for me...next time I will know and find better solutions.

Also that tree in MCO I got so excited when I saw that because totally was not expecting the airport to have christmas decorations for some reason :rotfl:

Yours was the first TR that I remember having the tree...I kind of became tree obsessed thanks to you!

[momabaarjo]

From Snow to Palm Trees in 8 Hours...Paradise!

Boo spots...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/hpsign.jpg

and Ab spots a tower peaking over a billboard in the distance…could it be? Tony confirms, yes that is Hogwart’s and a smile comes over her face that I had not seen for months along with a twinkle in her eyes. This has been a real rough year for Ab at school, and to see her smile made the entire trip worth it at that moment. A few minutes later, less than 45 minutes since we stepped off plane we were pulling up to what Boo called "Paradise" and Goo asks if we are in Hawaii and not Florida...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/1RPRupdated_sign.jpg

the Royal Pacific Resort at Universal (RPR).


Before I know it the kids are out of the van taking in the sunshine...Ab makes a comment that 8 hours ago it was snow and now it is palm trees! They decide they need to take a picture of them in their ski hats, because it does snow at Christmas right?

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/IMG_8512.jpg


http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/IMG_9089.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/040-1.jpg
Looks like Boo is strangling Goo in this picture...I think he had enough of his little brother by this time!

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/IMG_9087.jpg

Jeff, Tony and the attendant quickly load our things onto a cart...we say our goodbyes to Tony until Wednesday and are whisked inside!

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/IMG_9090.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/3rprfrogentrance.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/5rprtree1.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/RPRupdated_fountainarea.jpg

Having stayed at the RPR before, it felt almost like coming home again. I love this hotel and am excited to show the kids the resort! I quickly head to the front deck to check in, while Jeff and the kids check out the fountain courtyard and then the Christmas cookies and punch near the front desk. It does not take long and we are headed for our room...an hour after landing!

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/frontdesk.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/rprlightsinentry.jpg

Our room was located on the front side of the resort, 6th floor...at the bend, the tower closest to the theme parks (translation a few less steps if we walk, but a long ways from the water taxi).

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/4rprseeourroom.jpg

You really could not tell that this was the front of the hotel because of all the foliage you could not see roads or cars! You could see the edge of City Walk above the palm trees. I was pretty happy with the location. It would have been great to have a theme park or pool view...but really how much time do you spend staring out the window? Here is the view...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/IMG_8822.jpg

Now the room...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/7rprupdated_room2.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/8RPRupdatedtvandtable.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/9RPRupdated_athroomandvanity.jpg

I love the rooms, they are themed enough so that you don't feel totally like in atypical sterile hotel room but not over done! Having about 90 minutes before our dinner reservations, we unpack and get settled. I am usually not an unpacker, but since we will be staying 5 nights here and there are 5 people, we had to be organized. By the time I am through the kids are antsy and ready to check out the resort. Which if fine with me, because I have to pick up our theme park tickets at the concierge desk and I would like to look around more too. So we head back down stairs and while I pick up the tickets, they look around some more at the lobby. It does not take me too long to get the tickets (already done this on a prior trip so I knew what I was doing...armed with my confirmation number and credit card ready for the computer) and then kids want to go and check out....

[petals]

Yours was the first TR that I remember having the tree...I kind of became tree obsessed thanks to you!

I like the Trees and in America they are all so much bigger than the ones we have over here in shops or anywhere really. If you saw my facebook albums I tried to count the trees as I went along it worked until I got to Seaworld :rotfl:

I love the update esp the idea of Ab lighting up seeing the castle. Momma says same bout me. She says it's like a light comes back on that isn't on all year round when I see the Disney sign.

[swwake]

Love the update. I haven't seen Royal Pacific. Reminds me a little of the Poly's theming. Very pretty. Getting so excited for Universal!

[shocky5]

Yeah! All caught up! Love the airport reveal and I wondered when Ab started smiling if she might have had a 'clue' this could be coming. :goodvibes

And I'm happy her momma got to relish in her baby girl's smiles that day! Does make it worth it! :goodvibes

By the way, my kids loved those Hammonds candy canes! :goodvibes

I will try to make it back over here quicker than last time! ;)

[Leger13]

Love the hotel!! Very pretty and gorgeous rooms :) Kiddos look very happy!

[annmarieda]

"and the kids wanted to go and check out..."

What?:confused3 What did they want to check out? :confused3

:rotfl2::rotfl2:

I see how ya are. This is going to be on going in your TR isn't it? Always leave us hanging and wanting more?

Can't wait to read more!!! popcorn:: great update!! The resort looks very pretty... and the kids in their ski hats in the sun cracks me up. :rotfl:

[lovethattink]

Great update. And I'm hanging again?!

The rooms look great!

[pinkxray]

Your movie night with Snowballs Express looks like so much fun. I have to admit.. I have never heard of the movie before.:confused3

I love all of your pictures of the Royal Pacific Resort. We will most likely do a split stay with a Disney resort next time we take a family trip. DH loves Universal and having the express pass and early entry will be great. It looks much nicer than I imagined.

[momabaarjo]

I like the Trees and in America they are all so much bigger than the ones we have over here in shops or anywhere really. If you saw my facebook albums I tried to count the trees as I went along it worked until I got to Seaworld :rotfl:

I love the update esp the idea of Ab lighting up seeing the castle. Momma says same bout me. She says it's like a light comes back on that isn't on all year round when I see the Disney sign.

I think you were the one that started my obsession with the Christmas trees!

Love the update. I haven't seen Royal Pacific. Reminds me a little of the Poly's theming. Very pretty. Getting so excited for Universal!

I loved seeing your pictures of the other 2 USO resorts. I would love to stay at the Hard Rock if we ever go back. RPR does remind me too of Poly...but I like RPR entry lobby so much better...POLYs seems dated to me and dark.

Yeah! All caught up! Love the airport reveal and I wondered when Ab started smiling if she might have had a 'clue' this could be coming. :goodvibes

And I'm happy her momma got to relish in her baby girl's smiles that day! Does make it worth it! :goodvibes

By the way, my kids loved those Hammonds candy canes! :goodvibes

I will try to make it back over here quicker than last time! ;)

Glad they liked the candy canes!

Love the hotel!! Very pretty and gorgeous rooms :) Kiddos look very happy!

They were pretty happy at that moment!

"and the kids wanted to go and check out..."

What?:confused3 What did they want to check out? :confused3

:rotfl2::rotfl2:

I see how ya are. This is going to be on going in your TR isn't it? Always leave us hanging and wanting more?

Can't wait to read more!!! popcorn:: great update!! The resort looks very pretty... and the kids in their ski hats in the sun cracks me up. :rotfl:

The ski hats were a nice touch to the picture with the palm trees! Check out...:rotfl:poor choice of words. I hope you want more of my TR...because I feel like it is heading towards boredom real fast.

Great update. And I'm hanging again?!

The rooms look great!

Yep, hanging again....:cool1:

Your movie night with Snowballs Express looks like so much fun. I have to admit.. I have never heard of the movie before.:confused3

I love all of your pictures of the Royal Pacific Resort. We will most likely do a split stay with a Disney resort next time we take a family trip. DH loves Universal and having the express pass and early entry will be great. It looks much nicer than I imagined.

Snowball Express is from the mid 70s...fun movie. The boys asked today if I had sent it back because they wanted to watch it again...

The early entry and the express pass are the only way to really do USO in my opinion. I found the hotel to be very nice, comparable to the Deluxe at Disney.

[momabaarjo]

Who Cares About Santa When You Have...

What do all kids want to check out (even more so that it is technically winter)…THE POOL!

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p204/maggieworkman/Board%20Pictures/RPRPool1.jpg

http://i737.photobucket.com/albums/xx18/tigerjqw/Orlando%20FL%202010/Hotels/royalpacific3.jpg

This is not a hard request since the pool and where we will be eating is in the same general area. So we head down the stairs and outside back into the warm Florida air to look that the pool and let the begging begin about swimming after. Before I can respond, Boo reminds me that I had said that this would be 2 weeks of “YES” days and the word no is not an option along with his big smile and puppy dog eyes...my stunned child from the reveal is back with his witty personality. I remind him that we have to be up EARLY for Harry in the morning, so it will all depend upon what time we finish dinner. After a few more minutes of slipping toes and fingers into the pool and checking out the ENTIRE perimeter, I round the troops off and we head back inside for Christmas Buffet Dinner in the Islands Dining Room at the Royal Pacific Resort.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/island1.jpg

I had gone back and forth for the last couple of months where to have Christmas dinner at. Originally, I had booked Churricsa (Brazilian Steakhouse) on City Walk. They initially had great reviews, so I was excited to book this for my carnivore husband, but recently all the reviews had turned negative. So I started looking at other places. Jeff has always wanted to go to a Ruth Chris Steakhouse, but when I checked on it back in July it was not going to be open on Christmas…in early December I found that it would be open, but the only ADR I could get was for 8 pm, way too late considering the next morning/a day of travel/plus we would have to take taxi…too much hassle. So I started stalking Open Table when I discovered the Christmas Buffet at RPR, but they did not have anything open…so for the next two weeks I looked every day for earlier times…finally 3 days before our trip a 6:30 reservation for Islands came open and I took it, a lot less hassle than going to City Walk or getting a taxi. We arrived about 15 minutes early for our reservation (I had noticed looking into the windows of the restaurant while checking out the pool that there was quite a few open tables) hoping to get seated early. While we waited we took a picture of the kids by the tree which was decorated in lots of blown glass ocean type animals.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/1TreeatIslandsDining.jpg

Within moments we were called, received our leis, and taken to our table.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/royal-pacific-resort-holiday-decorations-2010-758-**.jpg

Dinner was a variety of buffet stations…carving, seafood, traditional Christmas fair, noodle/stir-fry, kids, and dessert. Carrie, our server, came over to welcome us and explain the lay of the stations and to take our drink orders…and for the adults complimentary…

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/2memosia.jpg

Hey it is Christmas and we are celebrating so why not. I remained at the table while Jeff took Goo to get him started and Ab and Boo went their ways as I waited for my mimosa and smiled to myself about what a great day…my drink arrived and I texted my little PTR followers with a picture and wished them Merry Christmas and FINALLY the family arrived back with their food and I was off to check out the buffet. I must say that they had A LOT to choose from, being that I knew the price of the buffet I of course had to check out the crab legs, first and with it being Christmas how about some sweet potato casserole (great combo I know).

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/3myplate.jpg

Ab decided to be adventurous tonight and try out the freshly made Sushi bar and then the noodle/stir fry station.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/5abplate.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/6abplate.jpg

Sorry that I did not get pictures of the boys plates…they thought I had lost my mind when I started taking pictures of my food. For most of the trip report you will see only my food…family just does not understand. During dinner Santa made an appearance, but he never seemed to make it to our table…

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/02-Jason-Lam-and-Santa-Claus.jpg

which WHO CARES ABOUT SANTA ON CHRISTMAS because this guy made to the table and the boys were ecstatic (guess who did not have the autograph book?)

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/7scobydoo.jpg

Homer Simpson tried to come by, the kids basically ignored him (we are not Simpson fans in our house…I don’t think the kids have even scene 5 minutes of the show) so he left pretty quickly and I did not even snap a picture. After my first course, I decided to check out the stir fry station, since Ab’s plate looked so good. It seemed like an endless wait in line, probably because the people in front of me had to nit pick everything the chef was doing...poor guy! But finally I got mine...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/4myplate.jpg

By this time the boys had found the kids room, complete with face painting, cartoons, balloon animals, and DESSERT! They had a field day in there and I believe that ate more dessert than anything (but it is Christmas and vacation, right?)

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/11dessert.jpg

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Goo was pretty upset when Boo came back with a hat...he did not know that was an option and started to pout. Ab, being in the Christmas spirit, went in and had a hat made for her and returned giving it to Goo. Teenage girls can be sweet to their little brothers some times! Next up was the best part of the meal...(okay any meal), dessert. Here are a few of the desserts that I picked out…Egg Nog Crème Brule, Pear Tart, Grasshopper Pie, Apple Cobbler with Carmel Sauce, and best of all molten chocolate cake!

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/10dessert.jpg

Here is Ab's dessert plate...I have no idea on earth why she got a roll to go with it!

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/12dessert.jpg

During the dessert course we were entertained by hula dancers and a ukulele player.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/15player.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/17hula.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/16dancer.jpg

We kept waiting for Santa to come over and dance like he had done on the other side of the room, but again he seems to never appear. I tried to get the boys out to dance with them, but they were still too focused on…

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/9dessert.jpg

I swear that Goo must have ate his weight in these little Black Forest Desserts! Overall the dinner was very nice and the food was good (the price not so much). I remember sitting there near the end of the meal smiling to myself that I had pulled this trip off and how incredible it was that here we were Christmas Dinner in Orlando while sipping...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/8chapane.jpg

I really was enjoying that moment, until…

[momabaarjo]

Lucky for you it is a very sleepless night for me...so you get 2 updates! :thumbsup2

[momabaarjo]

Swim In, You Know Like A Drive In but with a Pool

Just when I was finally taking a moment to enjoy the moment (probably the only time during the whole trip)...Goo got his fill of desserts and was ready to go…go and swim that is! Checking my watch, I reminded the kids at what time we had to get up in the morning and be out of the room. They assured me that if they could swim that they would get up when I said it was time. So we headed back up to our room and quickly changed ready to swim. We arrive back down to the pool and there was a movie playing near the pool. Boo informs us that we are going to a Swim In…you know like the Drive In but here you swim instead of drive. Ab got excited when she realized it was her favorite Christmas movie…The Grinch!

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/grinchmovie.jpg

It took us awhile to find a chairs to put our stuff on…not because of a lot of people and empty chairs but because I could not find a central location to be able to see everyone in the pool (old lifeguard habits are hard to break/protective mommie mode)…Ab wanted to go check out the movie and the boys were off to the water cannon/play area. I joined Ab for a while at the movie, until she decided it was time to bug her brothers and we all ended up at the play area with the boys aiming for us in the water.

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I am not sure how long we stayed in the pool…the night was so beautiful, enough to make you forget that it is Christmas and this morning we had awoken to snow. I finally pulled everyone out (under lots of protest) and got us back to the room and ready for bed. As the lights go out, I remind them we can’t keep Harry waiting in the morning! So the question I leave you hanging with...Will we make to the gate by 6:15 am for early entry at 7:00 am?

[momabaarjo]

Today my funny, laid back, and good natured boy turns another year older! Where has the time gone? In honor of this day, I thought I would share some pictures of him from our trip...

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I remember the day well...I knew something was out of sorts this time that morning, but it was 2 weeks early and dang it I still had to teach diameter and circumference and then it was BUNKO night. Made it through school and thought I might want to check in with the doctor...still no contractions or anything but out of sorts. Drove myself to the doctor...still nothing...waited and waited for the doctor when the nurse decides to go ahead and check...hmmm dialated to a 8 and no contractions?! She is going to send me across the street to the hospital when doctor arrives (along with Jeff) and there is my first true contraction. Yep, lets go! Drove myself across the street...get settled in my room, no time for drugs this boy is coming...From first contraction to finish less than 2 hours! Dang missed BUNKO, but I got circumference taught!

[FosterA]

Yay! Nothing better to getting up to a quiet house with my coffee in hand and hopping on the DIS to find all sort of juicy updates on your report.

It sounds like your first night was wonderful! The pool area at night looks so fun. My kids would have begged to swim the very first possible second too.

The dinner and drinks look awesome and I really want some of that grasshopper pie!

Can't wait to hear about waking the troops on the first full day. I really wonder about AB??

oh and happy birthday to your son!

[shocky5]

Awesome update!! I'm really happy that your reveal went off so well, and that you made it there okay AND that the kids got to swim on Christmas Day night! Love the movie by the pool, too!!

I have a friend who just got back from WDW and USO/IA and she has talked so much about USO/IA and Harry Potter that I find myself making promises to me to take the family there the next trip. :goodvibes I love the look/feel of the resort you all stayed at!

[Leger13]

Great update! That pool looks absolutely amazing! I can see why the kiddos wanted to go swimming so badly! And dinner looks/sounds amazing! :goodvibes Now, don't update too much while I'm gone, ok? :rolleyes:

[annmarieda]

Great updates! Looks like dinner was a hit. I know when I was planning on staying over Christmas that was a challenge for me... the "where to have Christmas dinner"

The pool looks fun. I have never done a swim in (not much of a swimmer) but our towns pool does them often and I know people tend to love them.

And.. last but not least... a happy birthday to your ds! I can't believe your labor story!! :worship: I envy you... mine were never easy or quick. :sad2:

[Sara1Babe]

Sounds like an absolutely perfect first day. I vote you'll be late to HP :-/ late nights and time zones and such.

[lovethattink]

The food at the Christmas buffet looked great!! To think, just days before you weren't sure what you were doing about Christmas dinner. Looks like you made the right choice!

That pool looks amazing!!

Gotta love Dive Ins, especially when it's your favorite movie!

Happy Birthday to your son!! I hope he had a fabulous day!

[sl_underwood]

Great update! Love the dive in!

[petals]

Luv the update. Christmas tree obsession is good btw :thumbsup2

Happy Birthday to your DS

[momabaarjo]

How EARLY Is Early Entry?

Before going to bed I made sure that everyone’s clothes were laid out for the next (this would become my routine every night of the trip)…remember I did the packing so I get to choose what everyone wears for the day. Last summer I had purchased everyone HP shirts just for this occasion (except Jeff who gets a black pocket T to match the color scheme). They were so excited about their shirts (Boo was the only one to see them because I let him wear his to the midnight release party of HP 7.2). I especially love Goo's…so fitting for him “I solemnly swear that I am up to no good” I also made sure that I had my alarm set for 4:30 am (trying my best not to convert it back to CST, which would make it 3:30 am) because my goal is to have everyone up and out the door by 6:00 am (again for us 5:00 am). Having experience WWofHP crowds before, I know how you must get there early, get things done, and get out before the masses of crowds arrive. WWofHP is not a fun place to be in the midst of a crowd because of its size (dictated apparently by JK herself and meant to be that way…so no grumbling). Sleeping arrangements were made by the kids…boys in 1 bed and girls in the other (pay backs for having to sit next to Goo on the plane all day) and with that it was off to dream about Harry. Morning came all to early, but I excitedly climbed out of bed and went about the task of getting myself ready and Jeff in the shower…don’t have to use the Rennervate spell on the kids for they hear me up and they raring to go! Wow, that was easy even my teenage daughter is bright eyed and bushy tailed this morning…not a grumble to be had!

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And of course we find ourselves waiting on Dad (something we are going to be doing the entire trip, maybe I should have named the trip report something to that effect). Will we make it out the door? The kids are getting restless and the pressure mounts on Dad…who is not being very magical. I do not understand how I can get 4 people dressed and ready to walk out the door in less time then he takes to get only himself around. Finally at 6:05 he is ready to walk out the door and off we go. When we get out into the predawn Orlando air there is a heavy fog hanging in the air, but it is warm and with thoughts of Harry running in our minds no one seems to care. I quickly lead the family down the path towards IOA…it is about a 15 minute walk from the RPR (with Goo). Jeff quickly notes that it seems like we are on the River Walk in San Antonio as a water taxi passes us by headed to RPR for the first pick up of the day (YES WE ARE AHEAD OF THAT GROUP). We make it to the security check area right before you come to City Walk and guess what; no one is manning the booth. HAH, I guess they figure terrorists don’t get up this early, only Harry crazies armed with wands! We come up over the last little hill and to Jimmy Buffet’s and the song comes into my head…its 5 o’clock somewhere (hmmm…that reminds me we have 5 o’clock ADRs here today…). We cross over the bridge into IOA where we are greeted with

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towering high above our heads. The boys want to know if they can climb up it…no is my response its only for decoration (at least I have never heard of anyone being allowed to climb it). As we approach the gates we notice that there is NO ONE in line but we do notice a group of people entering from a side gate. Remembering back to last time I had visited, they let people in to line up outside of HP in Lost Continent to avoid the congestion at the gate…so maybe that is what they are doing. We make it to the side gate, only to discover that apparently Virgin Airways has a deal with Universal to allow a travel package in an hour before resort guests…what the hay? Turned away we go back to the main turnstiles only to discover that we not first anymore in line but a family of 3 (mother and 2 sons) are now there in OUR PLACES).

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They see us in our HP shirts and we see them, instant talking points. We strike up conversations about HP and WWofHP touring ideas only to discover they are from a city near my hometown in Colorado. I also find out that they are not staying at one of the BIG 3 Universal Hotels, but a partner hotel and they also get early access into HP…WHAT THE HAY for the 2nd time? Lucky for Universal I learned that they do not get EXPRESS pass with that stay…because someone was going to be really mad if she paid the prices she paid to stay ONSITE just to have someone who stayed budget get the same treatment. I know that sounds tacky and that’s not the way Disney does it…but this is the dark side remember and I am paying for Deluxe for just those reason EXPRESS/EARLY ENTRY.

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Just about that time we heard the sound of the water taxi horn, and the next thing we knew the crowd was coming over the bridge at us…6:30 am and my family quickly learned the reason I insisted that we leave by 6 am and walk. I quickly explained to the kids about how to use the ticket machines and where we were headed once we got in the park. From out of nowhere the ticket agents arrive at their spots and start trying to control the masses gathering, sort the lines and give instructions on entering…one of them being make sure your name is written on the back of your ticket (DONE…I learned last trip after being chewed out about writing names on tickets by a ticket taker…we did that last night when we got the tickets). I handed the tickets out to everyone and away we go through the turn stalls. Once everyone was through the gate, I quickly gathered up the tickets, put them away, and pulled out our hotel keys and off we go with all the other crazed HP fans towards the right side of the rope for hotel early entry. We flash our keys and I collect them and once again zip them up for safety. Once past this check point I guess those behind us decided it is okay to run and everyone starts passing us…not to be discouraged I grab Goo’s hand and instruct all to follow at a fastest pace possible with Goo as Jeff begins the grumbling about the rush this is, and in the mist of shooting him my best Malfoy glare for being a grump, I make a near fatal error to my touring plans…

[momabaarjo]

Yay! Nothing better to getting up to a quiet house with my coffee in hand and hopping on the DIS to find all sort of juicy updates on your report.

Awww....you make me blush! I so loved all of your updates! I looked forward to them every day too.

It sounds like your first night was wonderful! The pool area at night looks so fun. My kids would have begged to swim the very first possible second too.

Kids and pools....:thumbsup2I really wish we would have spent more time when the weather was warm to do that...hmmm that is why we need a summer trip! :rolleyes1

The dinner and drinks look awesome and I really want some of that grasshopper pie!

I love mint and chocolate too!

Can't wait to hear about waking the troops on the first full day. I really wonder about AB??

Remember she is my Potter fan!

oh and happy birthday to your son!

He thanks you!

Awesome update!! I'm really happy that your reveal went off so well, and that you made it there okay AND that the kids got to swim on Christmas Day night! Love the movie by the pool, too!!

I have a friend who just got back from WDW and USO/IA and she has talked so much about USO/IA and Harry Potter that I find myself making promises to me to take the family there the next trip. :goodvibes I love the look/feel of the resort you all stayed at!

I still am thinking we need to get Eddie and Jeff to agree and do that 2013 trip! I don't think we will go back to USO until they officially announce the HP expansion and have it built.

Great update! That pool looks absolutely amazing! I can see why the kiddos wanted to go swimming so badly! And dinner looks/sounds amazing! :goodvibes Now, don't update too much while I'm gone, ok? :rolleyes:

I hope your little guy has a magical trip! Don't worry I wont post too much! Although I do have a lot finally typed up, but need to get pictures sorted and uploaded...that is the hard part.

Great updates! Looks like dinner was a hit. I know when I was planning on staying over Christmas that was a challenge for me... the "where to have Christmas dinner"

I know...you want it to be special because it is Christmas!

The pool looks fun. I have never done a swim in (not much of a swimmer) but our towns pool does them often and I know people tend to love them.

And.. last but not least... a happy birthday to your ds! I can't believe your labor story!! :worship: I envy you... mine were never easy or quick. :sad2:

Ab and Boo were both easy, not drugs (no time) and from first contraction to birth it was less than 2-3 hours...Goo on the on the other hand is a TOTALLY different story!

Sounds like an absolutely perfect first day. I vote you'll be late to HP :-/ late nights and time zones and such.

It was a pretty perfect day! We made it as you can see...I am a total GENERAL when it comes to messing with my touring plans!

The food at the Christmas buffet looked great!! To think, just days before you weren't sure what you were doing about Christmas dinner. Looks like you made the right choice!

I know...I think we texted back and forth about that prior to the trip. I like the choice I made in the end!

That pool looks amazing!!

Gotta love Dive Ins, especially when it's your favorite movie!

Happy Birthday to your son!! I hope he had a fabulous day!



Great update! Love the dive in!

It was fun...I had only heard about them in other TR...and was not expecting on Sunday night at the RPR. The calendar I saw prior to the trip only had Saturday listed.

Luv the update. Christmas tree obsession is good btw :thumbsup2

Happy Birthday to your DS

Love Christmas Trees...

[lovethattink]

I've never seen IOA so empty!!! It's good you are experienced there. I don't know that I will ever get to the HP stuff. It scares Anakin too much. We stick to the Seuess area. Hoping to eventually get to Universal studios, but so many things have strobe light effects there. Guess we'll stick to Disney for now.

[momabaarjo]

I've never seen IOA so empty!!!

That's because it is 6:20 in the morning...:lmao:only fools with touring plans are there at that time!

It's good you are experienced there.

Trust me that experience paid off as we spend more days at USO...just watch!

I don't know that I will ever get to the HP stuff. It scares Anakin too much. We stick to the Seuess area. Hoping to eventually get to Universal studios, but so many things have strobe light effects there. Guess we'll stick to Disney for now.

Really the theming of all the shops in Hogsmeade are awesome. So maybe you can take a stroll through there in the daylight sometime. Not a lot of rides for younger ones there...only the hippogriff. The castle itself is very dark inside so I don't think Anakin would like that too much...

Olivander's uses a strobe light for lightning in their show, so that is out!

Jeff likes WDW a lot better, but I like the both for different reasons...I love the thrill rides of USO but the overall park experience has to go to WDW! Both places cater to different types of crowds...as you know!

I am working on a Disney Cruise with him...for July 2013 and then a short stay at WDW...pray for me! :rotfl2: He has let it slip that he would like to go back someday...I mentioned the cruise and he said he would rather spend the money and go to Cabo (WAIT FOR IT)....to go FISHING....:mad::rotfl2:! My response was, what kind of a vacation is that for me? Well you could lay around on the beach...nope not me I like to GO GO GO and SEE SEE SEE!

[MickeyLuvrLauren]

I'm loving your TR so far! I can't wait to hear about WWoHP because I've never gone and I'm a HUGE fan and I would love to go! I'm in!popcorn::

[momabaarjo]

I'm loving your TR so far! I can't wait to hear about WWoHP because I've never gone and I'm a HUGE fan and I would love to go! I'm in!popcorn::

Glad to have you...we are HUGE FANS too!

[lovethattink]

Really the theming of all the shops in Hogsmeade are awesome. So maybe you can take a stroll through there in the daylight sometime. Not a lot of rides for younger ones there...only the hippogriff. The castle itself is very dark inside so I don't think Anakin would like that too much...

Olivander's uses a strobe light for lightning in their show, so that is out!

Jeff likes WDW a lot better, but I like the both for different reasons...I love the thrill rides of USO but the overall park experience has to go to WDW! Both places cater to different types of crowds...as you know!

I am working on a Disney Cruise with him...for July 2013 and then a short stay at WDW...pray for me! :rotfl2: He has let it slip that he would like to go back someday...I mentioned the cruise and he said he would rather spend the money and go to Cabo (WAIT FOR IT)....to go FISHING....:mad::rotfl2:! My response was, what kind of a vacation is that for me? Well you could lay around on the beach...nope not me I like to GO GO GO and SEE SEE SEE!

Thanks for the heads up!

I can so hear my boys saying the same about Cabo. I think there were fishing excursions on the cruise. We haven't been on a cruise in years, but Disney cruises are awesome!! I would really like to go back soon!

[annmarieda]

What an early morning!! I can't believe you got them all up!!! I am a bit jealous... my crew slept in quite a bit.... :sad2:

[sl_underwood]

Wow.. not sure my family would be ready that early. Love the shirt. Jess needs one that says I solemnly swear I am up to no good!

[petals]

Love Christmas Trees...

:thumbsup2


And oh nos what's the near fatal error? :scared1:

[momabaarjo]

Thanks for the heads up!

I can so hear my boys saying the same about Cabo. I think there were fishing excursions on the cruise. We haven't been on a cruise in years, but Disney cruises are awesome!! I would really like to go back soon!

I showed Jeff what I got in the mail on Friday...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/book.jpg

would you believe he rolled his eyes at me! The NERVE, LOL...I even now
have the boys in on the act:rolleyes1...I found out that one of the port excurisons is Atlantis and Goo has been commenting for years at the commerical that he wants to go there...yes I said years out of a 6 1/2...I think he has been saying that since he was about 3....

What an early morning!! I can't believe you got them all up!!! I am a bit jealous... my crew slept in quite a bit.... :sad2:

Yep, I think the excitment was the key factor!

Wow.. not sure my family would be ready that early. Love the shirt. Jess needs one that says I solemnly swear I am up to no good!

It is a cute shirt from the quote comes from HP and the Prisoner of Azkaban...
and so appropriate for my little Goo...

:thumbsup2



And oh nos what's the near fatal error? :scared1:

Just Keep reading, Just Keep Reading....:)

[momabaarjo]

It's Like Stepping Inside My Imagination...
Everything I Dreamed of and More

Apparently Jeff’s early morning mood distracted me, so instead of taking the short cut around Seussville to stay ahead of the HP crowds we went through Seussville…total mistake with Goo in hand because Seussville is quite colorful and eye catching, especially through the eyes of someone who is at the age that the books are readable! Poor Goo, I think I literally drug him through the entire “Island.”

For those of you that are planning a trip to WWofHP and staying with early entry (or just wanting to bypass Seuss in general), the short cut is right at the entry into Seussville at the arching signing, hang a left where you will travel on a path that has the lagoon to your left and Green Eggs and Ham to your right, this path will take you behind Suessville and bring you to where Seussville and Lost Continent Islands meet. This short cut will keep you ahead of most of the crowd and put you ahead of those in front of you that don’t know about taking this route.

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Notice on the left hand side a little gap in the entrance arch (far left side, that is where you want to go through and turn to bypass all of Seuss. This is what the shortcut through the arch looked like when we went...

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As you can see that the arch and the gap are covered up in holiday decorations, so it is easy to miss the turn...don't you just love excuses? First I blame it on Jeff's grumpiness and then on the holiday decorations...it wasn't my excitment at all!:rolleyes1

I panic thinking about all the people that were behind us that are now potentially in front of us (if they knew about the path). We make it to bridge that leads us to the Lost Continent…still walking at a much faster pace then Jeff likes…but I have my plan in hand and dang it we are sticking to the plan! Whew, not a lot of people in front of us as we wind our way through the Lost Continent…just as we make it to the fountain I slow down a bit to build up the anticipation with Ab and Boo, my Potter fans.

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I tell them to get ready because Hogsmeade is about to unfold in front of them. Sure enough, around the bend is WWofHP. As we pass under the arch, Ab is smiling from ear to ear! I hear Boo awing over the Hogwarts Express…

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I remind them that as soon as we get through the 3 things I have planned we will come back and look! We quickly make our way down the cobblestone street of Hogsmeade with “There’s…. and There’s…and Wow, look”…I knew Ab and Boo would be in heaven. We reach our destination everyone the last building on the street...

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Olivander’s Wand Shop with everyone still accounted for but a little winded.

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I chose to do Olivander’s first (something I had not done my first trip) because the show is about 10-15 minutes long and only 20-30 are allowed in at a time and I figure from all my reading that even waiting 30 minutes we are still at 7:30 and the line for Forbidden Journey will still be reasonable because only on-site will still be the only ones allowed. The line for Olivander's will only get longer and figuring 15 minutes for each group of 40...that could eat up a lot of time.


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Watching the crowd go by towards Forbidden Journey...


We get in line, and there the kids starting staring in wonder at Hogwart’s. I have never seen such a wonderful site, the look of sure happiness, amazement and awe…

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I hear Ab say," It's Like Stepping Inside My Imagination!" and Boo's comment was "Everything I Dreamed of and More" ! Jeff takes a picture of the area with his phone and asks Boo to help him text it to Uncle Eddie back home…from those following the PTR he was going to be the trip hijacker…but instead they went to NYC for the holidays. Eddie texts back in confusion…did it snow that much in Orlando last night?:rotfl: Did I mention that the roofs on the Hogsmeade buildings are covered in snow?

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We all had a good laugh…Sorry, back to the story unfolding. In front of us is there is about 40 people, so although we won’t make it in the first show we will easily make it into the 2nd show. My the only concern is where we will end up for the second show once we are inside and how many other children/young adults will be in the room at the same time in competition for being chosen? The line begins to move for the first show…where will we end up once the line stops?

[lovethattink]

I can feel their excitement! Got chills reading Ab's comment.

[momabaarjo]

I can feel their excitement! Got chills reading Ab's comment.

I know...I did too and in a few posts I even cried at her excitement! You guys have a great trip!

[annmarieda]

:banana: all the excitement!!! I can't wait to read more!!!

[shocky5]

So glad you made it out the door almost by the time that you wanted. Totally impressed with that!!! :thumbsup2

And I keep picturing you dragging Goo through Seussville trying to convince him that now wasn't the time! :rotfl:

Can't wait to hear what happens at Olivanders Wand.... once again... a cliff hanger. :goodvibes

[FosterA]

so exciting!!!!
I can't imagine how cool it must have been to see the kids see WWofHP! I've never been but I've seen the photos and it looks crazy amazing!
I can't wait to hear more details!!!

[swwake]

OH my goodness. I am all caught up and we are in the EXACT SAME PLACE in our Trip Reports! I wonder if your family did the same thing our family did....

[momabaarjo]

:banana: all the excitement!!! I can't wait to read more!!!

:yay: Hope to have more up in a few minutes...then it probably will be quiet for a few days!

So glad you made it out the door almost by the time that you wanted. Totally impressed with that!!! :thumbsup2

And I keep picturing you dragging Goo through Seussville trying to convince him that now wasn't the time! :rotfl:

Can't wait to hear what happens at Olivanders Wand.... once again... a cliff hanger. :goodvibes

We would have gotten out the door earlier if Jeff would have been on the ball...:mad: But in the end it did not matter we were there plenty before the crowd.

Lucky for us, Seussville was completely dark except for the street lights and coming dawn...or it might have been a different story!

Don't you just love cliff hangers....:rotfl:

so exciting!!!!
I can't imagine how cool it must have been to see the kids see WWofHP! I've never been but I've seen the photos and it looks crazy amazing!
I can't wait to hear more details!!!

WWofHP is beyond belief...I am thinking of you and your coffee this morning, hoping to get another chapter up before I need to get everyone around. I know how much I enjoyed reading your posts!

OH my goodness. I am all caught up and we are in the EXACT SAME PLACE in our Trip Reports! I wonder if your family did the same thing our family did....

:yay: Don't feel so far behind now! Hmmm...I think we know how each Olivander experience turns out....:rolleyes1

[momabaarjo]

Are You a Muggle?

The line keeps moving as we snake our way around the queue and around the corner of the store towards the front door when we are asked how many in our party? Five did you say, do I have any parties of 2 or 3 he asks behind us? A couple and a teenager from behind are quickly let through the line and enter inside in front of us as the door shuts for the first show…we are first for the second show! Now I am the one beaming from ear to ear, because if all the message & tip boards are correct that will place us in the perfect spot.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/5olivandercm.jpg

The shopkeeper at the door begins a conversation with Ab and Boo…noting Ab’s shirt that says "Muggle". He asks her if she is a muggle, to which she replies “No, my parents are muggles!” “Ahhh, so you are a squib?” he asks. I am grinning, this guy knows his Potter language and is testing her…good sign! She replies, “No, because my parents are muggles so they have no magical powers.” “Hmmm, so you are saying you have magical powers? About that time, the door opens and we are ushered inside and directed to stand near the spiral staircase.

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http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/Ollivanders.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/olivandersstacks.jpg

I quickly push Ab in front of Jeff and myself with the boys closet to the staircase. Ab has really had a bad year at school, and I am praying she gets some magic like she needs and deserves as I scan the faces of those entering the shop. Soon the door closes and Mr. Olivander’s assistant comes in the room. (For those that don't know, JK Rowlings specifically stated that there would be no named characters from the book being portrayed in WWofHP...so the man is not Olivander himself, but an assistant).

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/6olivandercminside.jpg

A think I am holding my breath and this moment...Will Ab or Goo get picked by a wand?

[FosterA]

Holy Cow!! on with it woman!:laughing:

I'm on the edge of my seat here. I really really want AB to get some magic!

[MrsFerrell]

aww booo for clif hangers!!!

[lilpixiebabe101]

Lucky for you it is a very sleepless night for me...so you get 2 updates! :thumbsup2


Sorry for the sleepless nights. But yay! for updates.

You and your cliffhangers...

I know what you posted to all of us on facebook about the wands ... hmm so lets see what unfolds :)

[swwake]

Oh I hope Ab gets picked!!!

[Monknmom]

You know I don't have to buy him a refurbished one anymore I have to buy myself a new one-- he dropped mine in a parkinglot and the screen cracked up the left side! So I am going to wait until they have those deals on them!
Okay starting at the 3rd one... Your daughter looks really excited! I love how smiley and gidy she is being! Oh you should be happy with that reaction you had a combo of all 3 different types!
I don't think that I have ever heard of the movie snowball express.... I will have to check that one out! Damien asked about movie nights, I told him we are going to be too busy pretty soon here, but may try to squeeze them in! Aww poor thing with the ears, my ears hurt really bad too and I find little relief in common things! When we go upstate I get that problem too, just not as bad anymore! You can always come here for Chrsitmas and skip the family drama! I am sure that Damien would love it! I love that Tony is just so friendly! And what a great ride it sounds like to get to Universal! And I would have loved to spend more time checking out hotels, although I would have liked to have more time in the parks- maybe before 2013 I can build this machine that stops time so that I can get things done and still have time for others! Oh I love that they have characters too! Yeah I don't think that Damien knows the Simpsons- I know I wouldn't have honestly! Oh it sounds like you had a really good meal (the boys had a really funsounding time and so great that Ab was able to make Goo smile)! And the pool sounds like the best- when we got back and he went to school one of the things he told the teacher was we never got to go in the pool! I regret not letting him go in! How funny Boo's birth story! That's a dedicated teacher! And happy belated birthday to him (I thinkI said hapy birthday to him on facebook...)! Oh my you were really close! And yeah I had to explain to K a few times why we would get there early! I hear that the WWoHP is worse than some parts of Disney with the crowd levels so I can't imagine! I hate the pushing though! I hate when cars do that to me on the road too and sometimes I laugh when I see them stuck at the same light as I am and they rushed to be ahead of me to begin with! I am so glad that they got that reaction and how great not only for you, but for them to notice all of the little details from the books and movies! you know this happens everytime I come back to your trip report! I get happy because I bypass all of the good cliffhangers and them WHAMMMM in my face an awesome cliffhanger!!! Have you ever thought of writing a book? Adding al of your cliffhangers you would have people on the edge of their reading chairs!

[momabaarjo]

Holy Cow!! on with it woman!:laughing:

I'm on the edge of my seat here. I really really want AB to get some magic!

Hope you did not spill your coffee with the lastest cliff hanger!

aww booo for clif hangers!!!

Gotta keep you reading...:rotfl:

Sorry for the sleepless nights. But yay! for updates.

You and your cliffhangers...

I know what you posted to all of us on facebook about the wands ... hmm so lets see what unfolds :)

The sleepless night last week had to do with the mean girl drama again at Ab's school...we had a parent meeting with all parties involved and lets just say the apples do not fall far from their parents tree...like mother like daughter! Got us NO where so we are 99% certain we are changing schools next year...since the school Ab is at apparently do not want to do anything serious about the problem. I am still :mad:

Oh I hope Ab gets picked!!!

Patience....:rotfl2:

[momabaarjo]

Dinner & a Movie Night
February 3, 2012
The Fox and the Hound

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/IMG_2338.jpg
(Ab had a game to cheer at and Boo rebelled against getting his picture taken)

It was a really low key movie night and really under planned...the kids wanted a movie nght and this movie had come from Netflix this week. I personally HATE this movie, I hate all movies that make me sad in the end! For dinner we had HUNTERS stew (beef stew) with cornbread and Cooper Cobbler (Peach Cobbler) ala mode for dessert.

[momabaarjo]

You know I don't have to buy him a refurbished one anymore I have to buy myself a new one-- he dropped mine in a parkinglot and the screen cracked up the left side! So I am going to wait until they have those deals on them!

I have seen videos on how to easily replace the screen...I always worry about the kids dropping my phone...:scared1:

Okay starting at the 3rd one... Your daughter looks really excited! I love how smiley and gidy she is being! Oh you should be happy with that reaction you had a combo of all 3 different types!

I knew better than expect jumping up and down in delight...not my family and how much I talk about WDW they had to know...right?


I don't think that I have ever heard of the movie snowball express.... I will have to check that one out! Damien asked about movie nights, I told him we are going to be too busy pretty soon here, but may try to squeeze them in!

Ours are getting really low key...just mainly a themed dinner and that it is...I like it that way...not under the pressure of doing something out of this world every week...

Aww poor thing with the ears, my ears hurt really bad too and I find little relief in common things! When we go upstate I get that problem too, just not as bad anymore! You can always come here for Chrsitmas and skip the family drama!

I would so love to avoid the drama...but I am pretty much knowing it will be that way this year. I loved Christmas at WDW, but I am like Ab I want to go when you can really enjoy the night and pools with out freezing to death!

I am sure that Damien would love it! I love that Tony is just so friendly! And what a great ride it sounds like to get to Universal! And I would have loved to spend more time checking out hotels, although I would have liked to have more time in the parks- maybe before 2013 I can build this machine that stops time so that I can get things done and still have time for others! Oh I love that they have characters too!

They have quite a few characters...but we really only encountered Scoobey Doo at dinner...and few super heroes (to come in TR)


Yeah I don't think that Damien knows the Simpsons- I know I wouldn't have honestly! Oh it sounds like you had a really good meal (the boys had a really funsounding time and so great that Ab was able to make Goo smile)! And the pool sounds like the best- when we got back and he went to school one of the things he told the teacher was we never got to go in the pool! I regret not letting him go in! How funny Boo's birth story! That's a dedicated teacher! And happy belated birthday to him (I thinkI said hapy birthday to him on facebook...)! Oh my you were really close! And yeah I had to explain to K a few times why we would get there early! I hear that the WWoHP is worse than some parts of Disney with the crowd levels so I can't imagine!

The shear size and the amount of people make it WORSE than WDW on a 10 crowd level day...get in, get out...


I hate the pushing though! I hate when cars do that to me on the road too and sometimes I laugh when I see them stuck at the same light as I am and they rushed to be ahead of me to begin with! I am so glad that they got that reaction and how great not only for you, but for them to notice all of the little details from the books and movies! you know this happens everytime I come back to your trip report! I get happy because I bypass all of the good cliffhangers and them WHAMMMM in my face an awesome cliffhanger!!! Have you ever thought of writing a book? Adding al of your cliffhangers you would have people on the edge of their reading chairs!

I would not consider myself a writer, it has been fun since I started on cliff hangers with the reveal to figure out how to continue them...some will be better than others, you can bet on that!

[momabaarjo]

The Wand Chooses...

I hold my breath, still praying…when Mr. Olivander’s assistant walks directly over to Ab. “Which is your wand arm, left or right?” “Right.” “Please step forward.” I hear her giggle with excitement and a smile larger than I have ever spreads across her face and her eyes are twinkling…behind the camera I am about to cry. She so needed this! And with that the wand choosing begins…

VIDEO LINK (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qvv-2OmGgtY)
Be warned that the video is very dark...due to the lighting in Olivanders

After the show, we are all whisked through the door and into one of the worst planned gift shops in history…the Owl Post.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/owlpostsign.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/owlpostwindowatnight.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/owlpostbuilidng.jpg

Now, I love the theming of the Owl Post…but the size is extremely unpleasant. Think about dumping 40 people into a room the size of about 3 average elevators with a cashier cage stuck right in the middle...no sort of queuing for checking out and everyone searching for the perfect wand...along with people trying to get in the front door!

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/owl_post2.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/owlpostwall.jpg

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http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/owlpost2owls.jpg

Jeff asks Ab if she wants to buy her wand, because he would pay for it (anything that brought that kind of smile is well worth it he told me and I have to agree). We had told the kids that we were not paying for their wants on the trip, they could use their Christmas money and savings, but this was a special occasion. Ab declines that just being picked was all she wanted. Looking back, I wish we would have insisted on buying it for her...but she does have the memory and the video. Boo is a little disappointed that he did not get picked, but I remind him that we have 3 more mornings to try if he wants!

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/owlpostboyslookatwands.jpg
For those of you not wanting to venture into the Owl Post in search of a wand, there are carts set up in WWofHP to buy wands!

We spent a few more minutes looking at all the wands, and then entered into another shop…Dervish and Banges where I quickly try to round everyone back up and get out a door…we are wasting time and the line to Forbidden Journey is just getting longer…will I be successful?

[lovethattink]

I know nothing about HP, except for what I've read here. Very cool it picked Ab.

[momabaarjo]

I know nothing about HP, except for what I've read here. Very cool it picked Ab.

Kind of hard to follow this part of the TR for non HP fans...sorry! So much is tied up with knowing the books, characters, and movies to really enjoy WWofHP and understand the theming.

It was cool that Ab got picked, she was all smiles (most :rotfl:) of the day afterwards!

[lovethattink]

Kind of hard to follow this part of the TR for non HP fans...sorry! So much is tied up with knowing the books, characters, and movies to really enjoy WWofHP and understand the theming.

It was cool that Ab got picked, she was all smiles (most :rotfl:) of the day afterwards!

Maybe once Anakin isn't so easily spooked, we'll start reading the whole series. I'd like to start Kingdom Keepers with him, but I'm afraid he'll be afraid of IASW and other harmless attractions if we do.

[momabaarjo]

Maybe once Anakin isn't so easily spooked, we'll start reading the whole series. I'd like to start Kingdom Keepers with him, but I'm afraid he'll be afraid of IASW and other harmless attractions if we do.

Goo and I started Kingdom Keepers last night!

[SharonK0527]

Just read your whole TR start to finish and am loving it! I have to admit, I literally got tears in my eyes when I read how Ab got picked at Olivander's and when you described the smile that came over her face. My DD is a little younger than Ab (she's 11) but has had kind of a rough year in school this year, trying to make the transition from elementary school to middle school, trying to make new friends, etc. I loved how happy it made your DD to be in Hogsmeade and get chosen by a wand :goodvibes

Can't wait to hear more about your trip! Keep the updates coming! :thumbsup2

[momabaarjo]

Just read your whole TR start to finish and am loving it! I have to admit, I literally got tears in my eyes when I read how Ab got picked at Olivander's and when you described the smile that came over her face. My DD is a little younger than Ab (she's 11) but has had kind of a rough year in school this year, trying to make the transition from elementary school to middle school, trying to make new friends, etc. I loved how happy it made your DD to be in Hogsmeade and get chosen by a wand :goodvibes

Can't wait to hear more about your trip! Keep the updates coming! :thumbsup2

Sharon-So glad to have you along for my crazy TR! I know about the tears in my eyes...to see her happy was something we all needed. We are dealing with girl drama...the same drama we have been dealing with since 6th grade (Ab attends a small Catholic MS/HS) that no one at school has seemed to want to deal with and now it is at its breaking point 3 1/2 years later. In fact, Ab is doing a shadow day at another private school today to see if that would be a better fit next year for her (she has friends from her elementary Catholic school there). I am praying today goes well, and that God will give us the LIGHTNING BOLT that we need to decide what to do.

The transition between elementary and middle school seems really hard for girls...Boo on the other hand is doing it this year (and going from private to public) and is loving every minute of it.

[SharonK0527]

Sharon-So glad to have you along for my crazy TR! I know about the tears in my eyes...to see her happy was something we all needed. We are dealing with girl drama...the same drama we have been dealing with since 6th grade (Ab attends a small Catholic MS/HS) that no one at school has seemed to want to deal with and now it is at its breaking point 3 1/2 years later. In fact, Ab is doing a shadow day at another private school today to see if that would be a better fit next year for her (she has friends from her elementary Catholic school there). I am praying today goes well, and that God will give us the LIGHTNING BOLT that we need to decide what to do.

The transition between elementary and middle school seems really hard for girls...Boo on the other hand is doing it this year (and going from private to public) and is loving every minute of it.

I totally understand! Savannah is experiencing the same things - girl drama. She doesn't understand it because overall she's a really good kid with a good heart. She doesn't understand how some of the girls can be so mean and what their problem is. She's a really smart kid - straight A's (like Ab) and I think sometimes other kids resent that. I do think it's harder for girls than boys at that age. My sister has 2 boys and never experienced any of the drama with her boys that I go through with having a daughter.

I hope Ab likes the new school and you're able to make a change for the better, if that's the direction you decide to go in. Good luck and I hope everything works out well for you and for Ab :flower3:

[LuvEeyore]

Signing on for more fun..better late than never.

[FosterA]

yay:banana::banana::banana: So happy that she got chosen!
I'm one of those that never read/watched Potter so I don't "get" it all but I know this must be a pretty big deal if she was all smiles. And I know how hard this age is to get to smile!

I'm so curious if any of your family gets picked again on the other days!!

[annmarieda]

OH!!! I am so happy that Ab got picked for the wand thing. (ok..yes... I am also one who has read not a single HP book. I don't think I have watched but maybe one or two of the movies :rolleyes:..but I try and keep up ;))

The shop sounds like a place that I could not get my dh or ds into... good thing we didn't have that on our list to do this last trip.

[momabaarjo]

I totally understand! Savannah is experiencing the same things - girl drama. She doesn't understand it because overall she's a really good kid with a good heart. She doesn't understand how some of the girls can be so mean and what their problem is. She's a really smart kid - straight A's (like Ab) and I think sometimes other kids resent that. I do think it's harder for girls than boys at that age. My sister has 2 boys and never experienced any of the drama with her boys that I go through with having a daughter.

I hope Ab likes the new school and you're able to make a change for the better, if that's the direction you decide to go in. Good luck and I hope everything works out well for you and for Ab :flower3:

Thank you so much...she did have a very good day (I knew she would)...I just don't want her to think the grass is always greener on the other side and I certainly do not want to jump from the fire into the frying pan. We have a heavy decision to make.

Signing on for more fun..better late than never.

Never late...so glad to have you :yay: We are only morning 1 of a 12 day trip (plus 2 travel days)....this is going to be a long venture!

yay:banana::banana::banana: So happy that she got chosen!
I'm one of those that never read/watched Potter so I don't "get" it all but I know this must be a pretty big deal if she was all smiles. And I know how hard this age is to get to smile!

I'm so curious if any of your family gets picked again on the other days!!

It was a big DEAL, for Ab...and thank you...you know how hard it is to get teenage girls to smile with their parents around.... :rotfl:

I wonder if Boo will get picked too...and I hope quick because I don't think I want to see the Olivander (translation do not want to miss the other attractions) that many times!

OH!!! I am so happy that Ab got picked for the wand thing. (ok..yes... I am also one who has read not a single HP book. I don't think I have watched but maybe one or two of the movies :rolleyes:..but I try and keep up ;))

The shop sounds like a place that I could not get my dh or ds into... good thing we didn't have that on our list to do this last trip.

Let's just say it was not Jeff's favorite gift shop...nor mine!

[momabaarjo]

Dervish and Banges & Diagon Alley Together...A Fan Rebellls

Was I successful in getting them out of Dervish and Banges?

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/dervishandbangessign-1.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/bandbangesstore-1.jpg
Usually there is a cart set up here and a podium from which you can buy HP postage stamps and postcards, plus get the Hogsmeade PO stamp.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/WWHP12.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/DSC_0238.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/dandbwindow-1.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/dandbcaldrons-1.jpg

Well before I answer that, let's take a look around the shop (which is adjacent to the Owl Post...it has 3 entrances, one being directly from the Owl post, which was my demise). In the Harry Potter books Dervish and Banges is a shop in Hogsmeade that sells and repairs magical instruments, including Sneakoscopes. It is located at the end of High Street (but in the WWofHP one of the entrances is directly from Diagon Alley...don't get Ab started on this error and it sells all things that a wizard attending Hogswarts will need from uniforms to brooms).


http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/dandbtrophies-1.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/dandbbrooms-1.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/IMAG2089.jpg

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http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/danbbroomflying-1.jpg

So did I get everyone rounded up and out the door? Well not completely, it took me about 15 minutes (okay, look at your watch and breathe...WWofHP is still not open for the general public for another 15 minutes)...there were lots of protests and me promises we will come back. Before we leave the area we take a look at the owl roost above us (called the Owlery). This is a great place in summer in the shade with lots of benches to take a rest...but we had no time for rest only a quick glance into the rafters...


http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/roosttower-1.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/roostbuilding-1.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/owlroost-1.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/roostowls-1.jpg

and then a peek down Diagon Alley (which Ab will tell you does not belong in Hogsmeade, with my rely you are right maybe when they expand WWofHP they will do it right...JK did not have a problem, so should you?).


http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/diagonalley-1.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/diagonalleyopposite-1.jpg

I finally got everyone headed towards Hogwarts Castle,

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/1hogwartsinthemist.jpg

where the sign for Forbidden Journey now reads a wait time of...:scared1:

[Disneychix]

I am finally caught up! How happy was your DD?! That is wonderful that she was chosen.

BTW:My Dh wouldn't be nearly as pleasant as yours if I tried to get him out the door at 6am! Trying for an 8am ADR at WDW is an ordeal-and there's food involved with that ;)

[annmarieda]

popcorn::popcorn::

looks pretty empty so wondering what the wait time is... good? bad?

[Tiggerrn2]

Joining in. Went back and caught up on some of your PTR planning. You are very creative! I loved all the planning you put into your countdown calendar. Enjoying the report. Thanks for sharing.

[lovethattink]

Goo and I started Kingdom Keepers last night!

I hope you enjoy it! When you get to the part about VMK, it's kind of like Ab with the HP geography, he didn't quite get it right. I think the book was written before beta testing or right during beta testing, because so much was off about vmk. (I sure miss that game! It was awesome!)



Another great update. Never saw the pictures of all the owls before, or deserted streets. I'm interested to see what your wait time was.

[momabaarjo]

popcorn::popcorn::

looks pretty empty so wondering what the wait time is... good? bad?



Another great update. Never saw the pictures of all the owls before, or deserted streets. I'm interested to see what your wait time was.

Don't let the empty street fool you...Diagon alley is a dead end (if you look closely at the picture with Goo you will see people at the end of the street...they are part of the line for Olivander's. Diagon Alley later in the day becomes the waiting line area for Dervish and Banges...yes, I said waiting line for a gift shop! By midmorning, you have to WAIT IN LINE to get in the gift shops!

[momabaarjo]

I am finally caught up! How happy was your DD?! That is wonderful that she was chosen.

BTW:My Dh wouldn't be nearly as pleasant as yours if I tried to get him out the door at 6am! Trying for an 8am ADR at WDW is an ordeal-and there's food involved with that ;)

Dh is a hunter and fisherman...he tends to get up early and we all are generally morning people...but we are early to bed too...mixing early mornings and late nights for 12 days...well just wait and see what happens! :scared1:

Joining in. Went back and caught up on some of your PTR planning. You are very creative! I loved all the planning you put into your countdown calendar. Enjoying the report. Thanks for sharing.

I am impressed that you wend to my PTR..:scared1: I think I loved the planning, more than the trip! :rotfl: Already planning for an imaginary cruise in 2013! Now to make it happen!

I hope you enjoy it! When you get to the part about VMK, it's kind of like Ab with the HP geography, he didn't quite get it right. I think the book was written before beta testing or right during beta testing, because so much was off about vmk. (I sure miss that game! It was awesome!)


I wonder if Goo will notice the geography...he is pretty sharp!

[annmarieda]

Don't let the empty street fool you...Diagon alley is a dead end (if you look closely at the picture with Goo you will see people at the end of the street...they are part of the line for Olivander's. Diagon Alley later in the day becomes the waiting line area for Dervish and Banges...yes, I said waiting line for a gift shop! By midmorning, you have to WAIT IN LINE to get in the gift shops!

That is super crazy!!!! wait in line to get into the shop? :eek: Just another reason I think the crowds were way more than I could have imagined they would be.

[Monknmom]

That is super crazy!!!! wait in line to get into the shop? :eek: Just another reason I think the crowds were way more than I could have imagined they would be.

I agree Ann!!! Although during a parade I wanted to get a hotdog for Damien and the wait for Casey's was just nuts, plus the security guards trying to clear the street I had to stand in line in!

sometimes the low key movie nights are the best! And I don't like the movies that make me cry either! Yes I have to look into replacing that screen! Oh my what am I to do with this little monkey?
Oh my that means more cliffhangers to come? LOL it's okay I'm up for the reading! But just to let you know when books do this to me I have no paitience I flip to the last chapter, read it and go back to where I was! But I can't do that here...
I love the videos! I'm so happy that she got choosen! She did deserve it!!! Oh and she got a wand that suites her with caring powers (is that what he said?)! Does she get to keep it? Oh well nevermind I guess not. I thought that if you were picked you got to keep it but I guess that would be bad business? And she is so great that she is happy enough with the memory!
LOL I love it how Ab is correcting the mistakes that they made! They should have hired her! Now that you say that I see all of the people in back of Goo! A waiting line for a gift shop? Crazy!

[lovethattink]

:scared1:

But I guess that's because there is a limit to how many get into the "wand show" first?

[momabaarjo]

:scared1:

But I guess that's because there is a limit to how many get into the "wand show" first?

NO, EVERY SHOP IN WWofHP has a line system...because the shops are so small and there are so many people trying to get in they have to have a queue set up to handle the crowds...CRAZY!

So you have really 3 choices for the start of your touring...

1. Head to Forbidden Journey
2. Olivanders
3. Gift Shops

All of these will end up with waits by midmorning on peak to moderate crowd days...

[momabaarjo]

sometimes the low key movie nights are the best!
I have to agree...I have one planned next Friday that I am excited about!


And I don't like the movies that make me cry either! Yes I have to look into replacing that screen! Oh my what am I to do with this little monkey?
Oh my that means more cliffhangers to come? LOL it's okay I'm up for the reading! But just to let you know when books do this to me I have no paitience I flip to the last chapter, read it and go back to where I was!

Me too, but this is my book and the only ending is that you know we get home! :rotfl2:

But I can't do that here...
I love the videos! I'm so happy that she got choosen! She did deserve it!!! Oh and she got a wand that suites her with caring powers (is that what he said?)! Does she get to keep it?

Only if she pays $30 plus tax!!!

Oh well nevermind I guess not. I thought that if you were picked you got to keep it but I guess that would be bad business? And she is so great that she is happy enough with the memory!

Ab is like her dad...a tight wad! That is a good trait to have, cause the boys have money burning holes in their pockets...I used to be that way, but now I am somewhere inbetween!

LOL I love it how Ab is correcting the mistakes that they made! They should have hired her!

No, instead of hiring her they went for the big guns...JK Rowling herself...Ab would have been cheaper! Don't figure you write the book, you could let someone else design, right?

Now that you say that I see all of the people in back of Goo! A waiting line for a gift shop? Crazy!



The line behind Goo gets up to a 3 hour wait...yes 3 hours for a 1 in 40 chance to get picked in about a 15 minute show!

[lovethattink]

That's insane. I'll stick to "Seuessland".

[petals]

That is so cool that Ab got picked for the wands in Ollivanders.

[momabaarjo]

Parseling Our Way Into Hogwarts

...where the sign posts a 20 minute wait for Forbidden Journey…that is a wait time I can handle (trust me, we saw a wait time later in the day and week of 210 minutes...yes that is almost 3 hours IN LINE) . The kids focus back their attention to the castle above them and the ohhhhs and ahhhs begin again.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/19sun.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/1vertical.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/3sign.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/2hphogwartstatue.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/2hogwartsentrance.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/2entranceinto.jpg

We quickly walk through the entrance...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/IMAG2150.jpg

and I am relieved that we can by pass the locker area with our backpack still on Jeff’s back…we are doing rider swap so nothing has to be stored, no messing with the DREADED-EVIL UNIVERSAL RIDE LOCKERS (and trust me from personal experience THEY ARE EVIL, not to mention as much of a pain as Draco)! As we parsel (for non HP fans...parsel is a snake) our way through the bottom chambers of the castle...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/4queqe.jpg

Mirror of Erised
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/DSC01765_0014.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/DSC00603.jpg

I am amazed at all the twists and turns…they must really be expecting a large crowd in a few hours to have the line already set up like this, until we finally reach the greenhouse...


http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/OgAAAFBX0RNx3xoQZGQp18L2Gdn-yjOT0fzD-FV3dCTGCtI4aHTQaHlZwnYurRfGrI9cTtxatn6NgC26THdYOpD PKhUAm1T1UD-PLEBszffOlVfvKp1urCq1Igrn-1.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/HogwartsGreenhouse.jpg

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/6plant.jpg
Mandrakes

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/7garden.jpg

Even though the ride board said 20 minutes, no time did our line ever stop because of waiting for crowds (just stopping when going through the castle to take in the theming)…we just kept moving. Normally, I would not mind if we did not stop but this was our first time into the castle and I wanted the kids to enjoy each room. There was a lot of times that we simply told people to go around us. Finally, the moment is here...

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p125/momabaarjo/CastleEntrancefromGreenhouse.jpg

[Monknmom]

I love all of the pictures Tammie! It looks nice.... but a 210 minute wait time? WOW that's worse then TSM! I guess that those TSM guests should be thankful!

[annmarieda]

20 minutes is not at all a bad wait time. Especially when you are snaking (or whatever the word you used is) through the queue for all of that. I think the Nemo ride in Epcot is a lot like that... no one to wait on, but a super long queue that takes the time to get through..