11/8/03 Western Cruise roll call.... "looking for info from DISers"

[dianthus]

Angela~ You were at WDW last week too! Wasn't the weather great! Crowds really thinned out after the Holiday. I couldn't believe they had 2 E ride nights in one week- what a treat!

Doing Epcot after the cruise will be great, as they will have the Food & Wine Festival going on- which is wonderful. Hopefully Misson Space will be up & running too. Epcot gets crowded on the weekend because of the festival, but it's worth it... If you stay at Yacht & Beach, it's a short walk to the International Gateway at Epcot. They have special dinners on the weekends during the festival that includes wines from around the world, etc... Watch the Disney website for details. You have to buy tickets ahead of time & they sell out quick. The festival will be a great ending to your trip!

:D

[imgoingtodisney]

has anyone seen the newsletter yet?

[wdw1972]

Not yet - hopefully soon!

[MouseGoofy]

dianthus- This will be our 14th anniversary and the 9th that we have celebrated at WDW or on DCL in addition to our Honeymoon.
I also just received the Cozumel map and it looks great. Now if I could get one for Grand Cayman and Key West we will be all set.

Deck Roll Call:

Deck 8

I am at work and it is Monday morning so the brain is only half functioning but I believe were in cabin 8060.

John
:)

[disneyeveryyear]

Diana,

I love your wine tasting idea. We could all bring wine from our favorite local winery. We could have a blast.

I am more than willing to slave over a cheese tray ;) .

As I think you know, we are on deck 2 in Cabins 2122 and 2124 (recent move to connecting cabins).

[imgoingtodisney]

Id love to come to the wine tasting too (not sure what Id be drinking). The secret deck 7 is right up the stairs from our room.

Dave - good job on the newsletter (again). Sooo when is the next one due out?

[mac_tlc]

Boy, its hard to keep up with this thread !!! 18 pages and counting, and still five months to go..

We will have a birthday .. my DS will be 9 on 11/4, celebration the night of 11/9. As far as deck we are on deck 7, cabin 7570.

mac_tlc

[imgoingtodisney]

Happy happy happy
Happy Birthday, Katherine !

[alisbarc]

Good morning fellow cruisers

I hope everyone liked the latest newsletter. Next one is scheduled for July 4th. Send me your favorite 4th of July story. Could be a favorite family trip over the holiday when you we're a little one, or the night Uncle Farris cought the trash can on fire with the fireworks, or the time dad burned the hamburgers on the bar-b-que and you had to go out for KFC, or the time Grandma's lost her bathing suit while swimming in the lake and wouldn't come, or ..... you get the picture. Also, I would like to recognize all are veterans (past and present) in this edition. So, if you ever served for our country please let me know when and what service. Also, if you have a Mom or Dad or other relative who you are proud of for serving our great nation let me know so I can recognize them also.

Definately count Alison & I in for the wine tasting. We are already in training. Working hard on our tolerance and endurance. By cruise time we should be up to a bottle each and still be able to see good enough to make it home with the right person. Of course, we just fall asleep when we get home but hey... the journey is half the fun.

We are on deck 6. Can't remember what room number. One with out a verandah. It was either a verandah or bring my MIL. Seems like I always make the wrong decision. Oh well, maybe next cruise.

ttfn
david

[3MinnieMom]

Hi, Everyone!!!

I just reviewed the last 18 pages on this thread in order to catch-up. The last 6 months have been so busy for us that I've gotten away from the DisBoards. I started out so well...booking our 11/08/03 cruise 15 months in advance...and then we put the cruise in the back of our minds (although we have had a DCL screensaver on our computer since the day I booked).

Anyway, our oldest DD just turned 10 this past Saturday, and it made me think of the "Wish I was 10 Again" group. It's great to be back!! Only 5 more months to go!! It was so interesting reading all the posts. Wow - there are a lot of cruisers from Illinois. Small World - we used to live in Springfield,IL, my DH used to work in Jacksonville, we also used to live in Rochester, NY, and my DH grew up (and his family still lives) in Ohio!!

We still haven't booked our flights or any of our excursions, but school ends this Thursday for our 2 oldest DD's (10 yo and 9 yo). I promised them that we would get completely obsessive-compulsive about the cruise once summer vacation begins. Right now our youngest DD (almost 5 yo) is watching "House of Mouse" on the Disney Channel, and she talks about the cruise non-stop. Even my DH is getting excited about it (he thought I was a complete lunatic when I booked the cruise last August!!!)

Anyway, now that I'm "back on board," I'm looking forward to reading more about all of you. Over 100 of us already!! The wine tasting get-together is a must for us...and there are so many great excursion ideas! We can't wait !!
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[disney6]

david - great job on the newsletter! you have a true talent.
3mm - you are GOOD going back and reading the whole thread. I have never done that - just kinda jumped right in. Maybe I should......(in my spare time of course!)

As far as serving our country, Penny's youngest son (20 soon to be 21) is in the marines and serving in Iraq as we "speak". Hopefully he'll be coming home soon but we don't know yet. (Penny is my Dad's wonderful I love her wife).

have a great day all!

[imgoingtodisney]

As I was taking a walk with DS yesterday, he asked me if anyone from our cruise will be flying to Orlando from TF Green/Providence with us. I told him probably not but we will be meeting some at the Radisson the day before.

[wdw1972]

Originally posted by mac_tlc
We will have a birthday .. my DS will be 9 on 11/4, celebration the night of 11/9. As far as deck we are on deck 7, cabin 7570.

mac_tlc

11/4 is my birthday, too - but it'll be my 5th 9th birthday <g>. Age has its advantage though - no being dependent on mom & dad for vacations, and I'm able to participate in the wine tastings!

We're getting ready for our 7-day cruise on HAL's Zuiderdam this Saturday (6/7). HAL & DCL are the only 2 cruise lines I bother with, and HAL is a better choice for me even though I do enjoy myself on Disney.

I'm hoping next week doesn't pass too quickly....I want the time to really drag while I'm on the cruise!

[disney6]

Hi cruisin' buddies-

I forgot about this until now - IF you would like to see some of our pictures from the last cruise (Eastern Car. Oct. 19, 2002) click on "pictures" on the following website:
Oct. 19 Magic Photos (http://www.msnusers.com/6widellsCruiseAlbum)

The weather was PERFECT the entire trip and for the one before (also in Oct.) so we are keeping our fingers crossed.

[imgoingtodisney]

thought we needed some bouncies
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

that should be 1 bouncie for ea wk we have left - 22?

who among us is up on deck8?

[acrucifer]

I Really, Really Love the wine and cheese idea and it seems as if it will be well attended. this is a terrific thread, seems to be a good deal of cohesiveness and friendship here. would like to thank david for remembering our veterans who sacrifice sooooo much and for all the work involved in the news letters. dont remember if I have stated it earlier, so will do it now Roll call Deck 6 !!

[3MinnieMom]

We'll be on Deck 5 - adjoining "secret porthole" rooms.

I've read about plans for Mini-Golf and Dolphin Swim in Cozumel (we hope to do both), Captain Marvin's in Grand Caymen (hope to join you all on that adventure, too), but I was wondering what excursion is a big hit in Key West. Our 3 dds (10,9,5) are VERY adventurous, but we realize that there are age minimums for many of the excursions (for example, my DH will be taking our two oldest dd's for the Dolphin Swim in Cozumel, since the minimium age is 8 yrs old, while I will take our wild and crazy 5 yr old for the Dolphin Encounter). Any ideas for Key West ??

LOVE the wine tasting idea! Also, we'll be celebrating a birthday on the cruise (my DH will be 30-something the day before we set sail - on Nov 7th).

:smooth:

[Fay Ray]

We're thinking of doing the Western Union Schooner Day Sail, and just touring Key West the rest of the day. I need to put the exact 60 days before the cruise on my calendar so I don't forget to sign up! I think this will be the only Disney excursion we'll do besides renting "stuff" on CC. We're doing Dolphin Discovery and Captain Marvins also....

[cjp/dvc]

David...It is really great of you to do the newsletter... I'm sure we all owe you a big thanks for keeping us in touch and making the anticipation of the cruise so much fun - Not that this group needs much encouragement! By the way...count us in on the Wine Tasting...it is a real hobby of DH Joe and DS Jeff. On the last cruise they both did the Wine Tasting and plan to do it again. In the meantime, they just bought several bottles to help them decide which ones to bring as their offering for the party!!! Hmm...a tough job but someone's gotta do it!

As for your warning to the teenagers regarding my position as assistant principal...there are three important things for them to remember ONE- I will have left all 1145 kids I am responsible for back at school! TWO- I too am playing hookey as this cruise is during a school week and... most importantly THREE - When assistant principals vacation they tend to act like the teenagers they have worked with for the last 30 years...so beware!

SPECIAL THANKS for encouraging everyone to make those wishes everytime they hear the Magic's whistle...maybe, just maybe with more than 100 of you wishing upon that star...another dream will come true...

[imgoingtodisney]

how did we end up on page 3?

So whos kids are out of school? Have they started their summer reading yet? Lists come home w/the kids today. Did you register them for the summer reading program at your local library?

DS (5thgrd) will be out 1wk from today! Yippee Let the summer begin!

[3MinnieMom]

Our 3 "Minnies" are now on summer vacation, and I took them to our local library Monday to sign them up for the Summer Reading Program (oldest DD will be going into 5th grade, 2nd DD into 4th grade, and the youngest DD into Kindergarten). Since this is the first week of summer vacation, none of the other programs have started, except for existing Softball and the completion of Spring Soccer (great week to get into their reading!!) Starting next week, all the summer rec programs get into full swing (tennis, swim lessons, basketball camp, etc.) Keeping the kids busy in the summer keeps away the "boredom" (if the Chicago area weather ever cooperates, we will hopefully be spending most of our summer afternoons at the pool - and then the kids can come home and READ!!!)

Did anyone notice that we are now LESS THAN 150 DAYS AWAY from our Cruise!!! :smooth: :bounce: :Pinkbounc :smooth:

[disneyeveryyear]

DS and I (and rest of family) just finished Harry Potter 4 (Goblet of Fire) over 700 pages.

I finally got too tired of reading it aloud myself and borrowed the CDs. Over 20 hours unabridged.

Yesterday he picked up #3 (prisoner of Azkaban) to reread while waiting for #5 (Order of the Phoenix) which comes out June 21st.

I expect to be doing a lot of aloud reading again until the CDs come out in late July.

We'll probably have it done by then.

I need a reading list for myself. Have started going back to library (saving book money for cruise). Until HP #5 comes out. I"ll have to buy and read that.

List any good books that you have read recently. I'll try to pick them up. I will read just about anything except SCI FI. Never did understand that stuff:p .

[imgoingtodisney]

Glad you guys are tracking the days. Im on a weekly countdown until we get closer

[disney6]

My kids don't get out of school until June 26. They are really ready to be done now (although I like it!). Have ordered our new HP book and it should be delivered June 21. I love them - my DS reads them too so it's well worth the price for us. Ordering early also got us a 40% discount!

[imgoingtodisney]

David - Is the kids newsletter still due to come out Sat? Id really like to get Jonathan involved in this - thanks

[disneyeveryyear]

bumping for the weekend.

Have a great weekend everyone and

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY.

[acrucifer]

less than 150 days!! where is the time going? this is unbelievable. we are all moving through the summer, as the anticipation builds. It will surely be the best vacation of our lives!!!! Mickey, you best be ready, here we come!!!

[balbrec]

just a friendly little nudge back to page one

balbrec:cool:

[imgoingtodisney]

Hello everyone -

I have heard from David - he's been busy w/the new house, new job, baseball season, his Dad, etc.
He said he will get us t-shirt info in a few weeks.
They're also interested in the wine tasting

[balbrec]

Being from upstate New York I've had the pleasure of visiting
our local wineries in the Finger Lakes region, so this wine tasting idea might be something I'd be interested in. Keep us up to date.
thx.


balbrec:cool:

[disneyeveryyear]

We could have all kinds of wines available. They make some nice ones here in Illinois and close by in Missouri.

I'm willing to investigate to find the best ones:p .

Beverly

[disneyeveryyear]

For those who are planning to attend the Captain Marvin's 1/2 day tour of Stingray City as a group:

I have e-mailed with Ruth at Captain Marvin's about the availability of an underwater videographer to come with us and make a tape that would then be for sale.

Is anyone else interested in purchasing one of these? From what I understand if you commit in advance to buying, they make a special effort to make sure your family is featured on tape.

Not sure of cost, still waiting to hear back from video peope, just wondering if it would be well received.

I know we would buy at least 1 maybe 2 if grandma buys her own.

What do you think?

[Fay Ray]

Great idea! Count us in!

Linda

[nghtangl01]

Just thought I would bump us up to page one. Hope everyone had a good weekend.

I got to be a little princess all weekend, it is great to celebrate your birthday all weekend long. (Official day is the 23rd).

Cannot wait until we set sail.

[imgoingtodisney]

Have a Happy Birthday tomorrow

Counting by weeks, we are now in the teens!

[disneyeveryyear]

sorry to have missed your birthday:( . Hope you had a great weekend.

Bumping back to the top so we don't get lost.

[balbrec]

What's everyone doing for Independance Day? We're headed to Boston to see some sights, the fireworks, and a college friend and family with a condo on Cape Cod......

I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday!

Linda accidently logged in as Brian!

[imgoingtodisney]

taking DS July 3-6 to spend 3 nights up in the White Mtns, NH - staying at Indian Head in Lincoln
thinking of day trips to Loon Mtn tramway, Lost River and Flume Gorge

Have a Happy 4th everyone
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[disneyeveryyear]

Since DH is a country club manager, we will once again spend the day at the Club (located in our backyard).

Pool games, snow cones, popcorn, face painting, clown, etc. followed by BBQ for dinner.

Will be inviting mom to join us.

We will be at home all weekend because I am sure Club will be busy and DH will not be willing to leave until Sunday evening. We'll probably go out to dinner, just to get him away from place (downside of living on grounds, he never gets away from his job).

[Figgy77]

Hi All, I just joined your group, and found tons of you on the 11/8 cruise. My goodness, I think we'll be over running the ship!!!
DH and I were originally from Ct. ( both born and raised in New Milford) but retired to Fl. a year ago. This will be our first cruise!!
We're a Cat. 6 with Veranda--Rm. 6594.
We just booked a few weeks ago, and can't imagine those of you who booked months ago. How can you stand the wait???
I'm looking for our very first newsletter on the Fourth--which happens to be my birthday!! Have fun keeping, "The Dream, Alive!!" Diane

[wdw1972]

I'm headed to Ft Lauderdale (2 hr drive) on 7/4 for a day of outlet shopping at Sawgrass Mills. They've got a Character Premiere store there. I'll be meeting a couple of friends who live over there, and taking them out to lunch at Cheesecake Factory for their birthdays.

Fireworks aren't something I care about - I've seen so many between wdw and our minor league baseball games, they're no longer something I bother with. There will be huge fireworks displays after the games on 7/3 & 7/5, but I'll most likely leave before they begin!

[imgoingtodisney]

Diane - glad you found us - email David and he can send you the previous newsletters

Have a Happy Birthday!!

[disneyeveryyear]

Diane,

Welcome to the "crowd".

When you get a minute drop some information to David so he can let us know about you in our next newletter.

Happy weekend everyone!

[imgoingtodisney]

hey David - whats our # now?

[imgoingtodisney]

If I gotta eat grilled chicken breast (instead of my cheeseburger) in paradise thats ok *** I just lost another 3lbs! yahoo 15lbs in the fall plus 7lbs since May - have another 13 to go! I will do it, I will I will

Just saw the Magic go past twopalms website so we are now counting 18wks

[cjp/dvc]

Welcome Diane!
From your post you and DH are about the same generation as Joe and I although we are still working Yankees in NJ looking forward to retirement in Fla in the not so distant future...
We are also on deck 6 in 6644 and this will be my 4th but DH's 3rd Magic Cruise (one girls only trip!)... we did this identical Western trip a year ago for our 30th Anniversary and talked about is so much that our son and his significant other convinced us to join them on the trip again this year. We look forward to meeting you to share your experiences retiring to Fla! Will gladly trade advice for cruise for advice for Florida retirement...
How's that for bartering????

[Tesabat]

Catching up on all the threads....and would definitely enjoy a wine tasting! Also from upstate NY...but our closest winery features "apple" wines....and frankly, they are just not as good, but I have a bottle I could bring if anyone is interested. I prefer the grape variety myself. And, for those beer drinkers among us - we have a LOT of micro brews around us - and some of those DO deserve a tasting! :D

[3MinnieMom]

Beer tasting....Wine tasting

Count us in for both!!! (My DH prefers beer over wine, and he especially likes to try the micro brews)

[acrucifer]

now your speaking my language with the micro brew beer tasting idea. I have sampled micro brews from all of our wonderful 50 states and I know there are many I have yet to get to. as a native new yawkah, from upstate, I attest to the fact that we have some excellent micros. will bring something special for this soiree from the empire state!

[disneyeveryyear]

I think we could bring either local wines or local micro brews.

That might make everyone happy. Of course, then we'll have to bring something salty to go with the beer.

Does that include your local chips? Those might be hard to transport.

[acrucifer]

your correct, momster. local chips would be difficult to transport. they would end up being potato bits, rather than chips. but, not to worry, I can purchase large quanities of chips and pretzels on board. Disney really thinks of everything when it comes to that kind of stuff.

DISNEY CRAZED!!!

[alisbarc]

Hello Everyone,
I know I have been a hermit this past month. Sorry! Have thought about y'all often.

Baseball season is finally over and the new job is starting to settle down. I was involved in spearheading a major reorganization with lots of moving pieces to the puzzle. The new house is coming along nicely. They started the sheetrock this week. I bought a used pontoon boat so we will be in the annual 4th of July (its on the 5th this year) boat parade on the lake we are building on. The whole family went to the dollar store and bought all kinds of red white and blue stuff to decorate it with. It may not look good but it'll be colorful. After the parade we are going to anchor with about 100 other boats and watch em shoot off fireworks over the lake.

Anyways, the newsletter WILL be out tomorrow. I still need some good 4th of July stories. Also need the names of all our Vet to honor them.

Welcome to all the new folks. I will get you caught up on all the past newsletters and activities over the long weekend.

ttfn
david

[alisbarc]

I really like both the wine tasting and beer tasting ideas. We got a couple of local microbrews. Only fair though. Tennessee is more known for its whiskey (Jack Daniels) than for its beer or wine.

Am working on the newsletter right now. It will be out sometime today - or if I get into a mind block tomorrow. We picked up 7 new folks since our last newsletter. Puts us at 116. Wow.

Am going to send out a special notice sometime in August with all the details about the minigolf tourney, stingray excursion, and t-shirts. Gonna need to get final count on the t-shirts by around Sept 10th. Will need a rough count on the minigolf tourney then also. Not sure exactly were we stand on the stingray excursion. We may be full - no idea. Not sure how many the boat holds. Will contact Captain Marvin shortly to find out.

Happy Birthday Diane!!!

ttfn
david

[nghtangl01]

Hope everyone has a safe and happy 4th today!!!

We personally will be at the Daytona International Speedway watching the Busch race. We were able to go last night to watch qualifying for Saturday's race.

[alisbarc]

Oops, added wrong. Almost forgot about young Aiden (4). We are at 117!!!

[alisbarc]

Hello Again,

The 5th edition of the newsletter is in stores now. #6 is set for August 14th. We will have less than 90 days to go at that time so it will be filled with check list, tips, etc. Got any good ones. Email them to me (dwbarc@aol.com) so I can include them in the issue.

If you haven't got your passport or birth certificate (an original w/ raised state seal) you need to do it ASAP. With all the not so good things going on in the world today DCL (and all cruise lines) have gotten very strict on thier paperwork I.D. requirements. Gotta have either the passport or an original birth certificate with state seal for all passengers (kids & adults). We do not want you to get left behind.

ttfn
david

[nghtangl01]

Also so some people don't start to worry not all states use raised seals. But the will still have the seal.

HTH!!

[acrucifer]

my very beautiful wife and I will be enjoying several special moments our our second magical cruise. first, we are celebrating our first year as DVC members (we are still excited about that) our 7th (seventh heaven) wedding anniversary and my 44 th birthday. (wasnt I 26 yesterday????) and we will celebrate for all we are worth. (or perhaps I will do the celebrating for the tthe two of us). anyway, we went to disney for our honeymoon and have been there five times since, it is our home away from home. what wonderful respite from a life of fighting crime and the other ugly things that go along with it. anyway, I cant wait 124 days and counting, I am living for it. perhaps I am, .........crazy for minnie!!

[disneyeveryyear]

David,

Thanks for the latest newsletter. It is always so exciting to see who is new and what is happening.

Have a great weekend everyone!

[MouseGoofy]

Hi all,

It's been a bit hectic around here so I have not had a chance to post lately. I hope everyone had a safe 4th of July.

First of all I want to say thank you to David for all the hard work on the newsletter. Ben(DS11) is enjoying the kids newsletter as well.

I liked the microbrew tasting idea so much that I am having my own tasting now. Does it count as a tasting if they're all the same kind?:)

John

:D :bounce:

[imgoingtodisney]

Jonathan hasnt started getting any of the kids newsletters yet. What does he need to do? Im having him use my e-mail adrs.

[alisbarc]

Just have Jonathon send a short paragraph about himself to marbarc@aol.com Also ask for a copy of the 1st one.
ttfn
davie

[imgoingtodisney]

Run to your nearest store! the summer clearance sales are happening already

Went last night to buy another tankini, jean shorts and tank tops and the pickins are getting slim. Thank goodness we're leaving on vaca in 10days or I wouldnt have found what I did.

[dianthus]

David~

We just got home from our trip. Your newsletter cracked me up! I liked your "fuzzy math"! Since the cat is out of the bag about Doug's big 50, I want to go on record that he really robbed the cradle when he married me - LOL! We are truly looking forward to celebrating both milestone events on this trip. After I read everything Taylor does, I realized why I am so tired. I am her taxi...

We love CC, but BEWARE of the banana boats... especially if a large person sits in front of you. I had a rather large lady sitting on my hands the entire time, as I was hanging on for dear life. When the boat made the sharp turn, she was the reason the entire boat dumped over- sending 7 others flying into the open waters of the ocean.... It was not a pleasant experience, one I choose not to repeat again... enough said about that!

Thanks so much for the newsletter! You are terrific for doing it with so much going on in your life. Sounds like you are busier than Taylor!

~ Linda :D

P.S. - Adult Question of the month- yes, we are DVC members- 7 yrs.- BWV & HH. DVC is the best!

[acrucifer]

hello again fellow dis members!! just want to reply to the adult question of the month. we are dvc members at bcv (beach club villas) and of course love disney, going there 4 times since 1996 and then getting smart and becoming members. remember, it all started with a mouse!!!!!

[imgoingtodisney]

dvc members here - bought w/Wilderness Lodge Nov 01
Hopefully will get "home" for the 1st time Oct 04

I'm taking the long way "home" but first Im stopping for my "grilled chicken breast" in paradise

I WILL get on the cruise this year and Im on a lowfat diet hence my tagline

17wks from today (not bad when you counted down 11months and then started over w/another 12 months)

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

[disney6]

adult question of the month:

We are DVC members at BWV and Vero. Bought BWV in March 2000 and added on at Vero on our Oct. '00 cruise. We have yet to even see any DVC properties (we bought sight unseen over the phone)! Planned on BWV in Oct. 2000 then the special points deal came out for the cruise and we decided to try it and well......... Since we haven't been to WDW since summer 1997, I'd really like to go --- the cruise just takes too many darn points -- but then if we'd STOP TAKING OTHER PEOPLE WITH US -- maybe we'd be able to swing both. someday............................

[imgoingtodisney]

our thread is getting lost again - found on page 5!

Hows everyones summers going? We take off this Fri the 18th till next Thurs 24th to Hampton Beach area in NH

[3MinnieMom]

My 3 dd's and I are going to hit the Chicago-area shopping malls today looking for bargains - cruise attire will be out of the stores witihin weeks (some stores already have slim-pickins' !!)

My DH and I finally booked our airfare last night - $146 pp round-trip from Chicago-O'Hare to Orlando. That seemed like a pretty good deal. Now we need to book our excursions. In Grand CAymen, is anyone doing Captain Byron's (I think I have the name right - the catamarran stingray excursion) versus Captain Marvin's??

Enjoy your summer everyone!! See you in a little more than 100 days!

:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[disneyeveryyear]

Wow, what a great airfare. We are paying $260 out of Springfield (just 200 miles away). There wasn't anything decent out of Springfield or St. Louis. Hate to drive to Chicago for flights.

We are with the group on Captain Marvin's. You should think about joining us. I think there are about 14 of us right now on the 10:00 a.m. 3 hour cruise.

[disney6]

Still looking at airfare here. If we fly from Toronto it's about $1000 for 2. If we drive 1 1/2 hours to Buffalo it's $350 for 2. Guess we'll be driving to Buffalo! Trying to decide whether to fly into West Palm Beach and spend Friday night with Greg's dad. I'd rather go to Orlando, the Radisson and Grills (I LOVE that restaurant!) but want to make everyone happy too so.......

I have been shopping a bit (I'm not a big shopper but my DH would disagree with that statement!). Bought a cute halter style dress -- I'm still not sure about it -- I've never worn anything like it before. We'll see.......

I've been looking at and thinking about Captain Marvin's too. I like that everyone on the boards is going together but I like Captain Byron's because of the catamaran (they are fun!). My Dad's wife and I will probably decide what we'll do sometime in August -- they are busy with company until then. Still trying to decide whether to scuba dive or not too.

[disneyeveryyear]

Think about joining us on Captain Marvin's. I have been e-mail with underwater videographer. It looks like they will be willing to go with us, especially if we have enough people!

[balbrec]

OK, Im all set. I have selected a nice cabernet from our local winery to bring . Keep me up to date on this event

balbrec:cool:

[disney6]

As it gets closer we can pick a time and place for the wine/beer tasting. Last time we met on Sunday afternoon on the deck 7 "secret" verandah and it was great! We all put our kids in the clubs so it was all adults (some kids joined us but that's was fine too).

[disney6]

How many more weeks do we have Barb?

[wdw1972]

I'm not Barb, but I count 16 weeks to go!

The wine/beer tasting sounds like fun, and that secret deck sounds like the perfect place for it.

[disney6]

Seems I'm the only one that wants to swim with stingrays -- I'm still working on it though! We will be scuba diving in Cozumel in the morning/early afternoon. Have to make sure we have time for some shopping and Carlos 'N' Charlies!

[nghtangl01]

Carlos and Charlies is one stop we are definitely making. My boss and a co-worker keep saying that it is a must.

[disney6]

We were there 14 years ago and I still remember it! Of course if I remember correctly we stumbled back to the cruise ship afterwards! ;)

[acrucifer]

It is a well travelled suggestion that you avoid the water on some carribean islands such as cozumel and Grand Cayman. My question is, could the food in restaurants, if it is cooked in tap water from a faucet (say such as Pasta) also make you Ill. the last thing I want is my wife getting sick on the Magic ( HMM, although that could give me alot of extra time in the espn sports zone !!) thanks for a reply from anyone who has a experience or knowledge on the subject.

[disney6]

that's why you eat on the ship and drink (drinks without ice!) at Carlos 'N' Charlies! Take bottled water with you on shore from the ship too! -- can you buy bottled water on the ship? We didn't worry about it on the Eastern so never noticed.

[acrucifer]

I see. better safe than sorry, thats for sure. yes, you can buy bottled water on the ship. in fact, room service will even deliver it to your stateroom. thanks for your reply.

[disney6]

bumping us before we get lost in neverland.........

[disneyeveryyear]

As for the beer/wine tasting:

Since we are in port at Key West on Sunday, may I suggest Monday, late afternoon say 3:30 or so for our get together? This will be a sea day and hopefully everyone will be ready for a little afternoon break. That would also give us time to still get ready for dinner/shows at 6:00 or 6:30 (whatever it is).

Still looking for good wine. I am afraid I will have to start sampling:p .

Leaving 15 weeks from today and I am so excited!

[disney6]

Monday sounds good to me. When I said Sunday, I wasn't thinking about Key West (we were on the Eastern so Sunday was a sea day). Definately do a sea day! Monday is semi-formal so we don't want to meet too late as people will want time to get duded up for dinner and pictures start earlier than dinner. Maybe 2:30 or 3:00. I have to check what time pics start.

We have late seating so 3:30 is fine with us BUT I know most people probably have early so........

[disney6]

I checked Barb's navigators. Monday, captain reception at 5:45pm and formal portraits start at 5:00. It also said Monday was formal night. I don't know which it really is, some navs have said Mon semi-formal, Thu formal and some reversed. So whatever time you all think is fine with us.

tastin' my wine........... Will probably be bringing a semi-dry reisling from Ontario (Niagara region). It's awesome!

[imgoingtodisney]

wow! just saw Beverly's countdown and next week we can say we are in the double digits


Just got back from Hampton Beach, NH and we now own 2 hermit crabs. Hoping DHs brother will take them while we cruise
Gotta get back on the diet - hoping for another 5lbs gone by Labor Day

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[acrucifer]

bump

[wdw1972]

Originally posted by disneyeveryyear
As for the beer/wine tasting:

Since we are in port at Key West on Sunday, may I suggest Monday, late afternoon say 3:30 or so for our get together? This will be a sea day and hopefully everyone will be ready for a little afternoon break. That would also give us time to still get ready for dinner/shows at 6:00 or 6:30 (whatever it is).

Still looking for good wine. I am afraid I will have to start sampling:p .

Leaving 15 weeks from today and I am so excited!

As long as this doesn't conflict with the Castaway Club reception or the DVC reception, it sounds great to me!

[imgoingtodisney]

uhoh - I found us on page 4!

So how is everyone ending their summer? Whats up for August? DS has 2 more wks left of Nature's Classroom summer day camp. DS & I have 1 more mini-vaca in the plans - camping (cabin) in Maine Aug 16-19. Starting Aug 20th its plan plan plan/ diet diet diet for the cruise!


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

[3MinnieMom]

Hi, Everyone!

My oldest DD wanted me to check our countdown clock this morning, so it's been nice to catch-up on the posts for the last week. My sister, her DH and their 4 kids leave Saturday on the August 2nd Western Disney Cruise!!! I can't wait to post some of her experiences (she is not very computer savvy, so I can't talk her into posts from the ship).

Our summer has been crazy busy with our 3 kids...tennis lessons, swim lessons, basketball camp, art classes, library program, and Softball!!! Our oldest DD made the 9-10 yr-old All-Star team, so, just when we thought the softball season was over - we got hit with several more weeks of intense softball playing (my DH was one of the coaches, which kept him very busy as well). Their final game was this past Sunday morning (they lost :( ). Now she has one more softball camp the 1st week of August, and our youngest DD is finishing up her last session of swim lessons (we want her to be able to swim on the cruise!). We have 2 free weeks of August with no planned activities, and then we've rented a private home on a lake in the Northwoods of Wisconsin (my DH is an avid fisherman) for the last week of August. We can't wait for a whole week of no schedules, lots of family games, reading books, fishing, biking (one of our family's passions) and just good ol' R&R.

We are bringing our 1-yr old Golden Retreiver with us up to Wisconsin...which leads me to a question for all of you. Since we have never left our dog for more than a day, what arrangements are those of you with pets making for this beloved member(s) of the family while you're away on the Disney Cruise??

Take care...the 100-day mark is almost upon us!!! :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[imgoingtodisney]

hey guys - dont worry if you start reading the threads about the Norwalk virus being on Royal Caribbean
Being one of the many 11/30 cancelled cruise survivors (yes I earned the title of survivor) I can tell you that it will not be on the 11/8 cruise - Norwalk will not do it to us again! So let the planning/dreaming continue --

[Tesabat]

what arrangements are those of you with pets making for this beloved member(s) of the family while you're away on the Disney Cruise??

We are lucky...our vet runs an excellent boarding facility, and they actually keep our baby on the "hospital" side where he is given free run of the place every morning while he follows the techs around as they feed everyone and deliver meds. Then they take him outside with them at lunch time every day and generally spoil him rotten. Despite all the tender loving care, he hates being left...but...what can you do? I personally think he cries and barks and moans terribly while we drop him off, and then the minute we are gone, winks at the techs and says - "Ha! Made everyone feel guilty - Bring on the treats when they get back!" :)

[acrucifer]

well, here we are. the last 100 days and counting for over 100 dis cruisers. it wont be long now. enjoy whats left of your summer. mow the lawn, take in a movie. enjoy a dinner out with the family. enjoy whats left of your summer and the arrival of fall, for soon we will all be in paradise! the anticipation builds!!

[disneyeveryyear]

We are now officially all experiencing the double digit dance.

This is too exciting. Hope everyone is having a great summer and we look forward to meeting everyone in 99 days!:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[pajammatam]

IGTD here logged on as pajammatam

Im 5lbs from goal weight! yahoo - Im doing it guys - now to keep it off till I get onboard ship and start having those frozen tropical drinks

[nghtangl01]

Congrats.

[acrucifer]

is everyone on this board dieting or what? Maybe I will do the same.

[wdw1972]

Originally posted by acrucifer
is everyone on this board dieting or what? Maybe I will do the same.

I'm not dieting - my weight is fine. However, I have started working out on a regular basis. The cruise doesn't have anything to do with it - it's simply the right thing to be doing. Hopefully I'll figure out how to use the equipment in the gym on the ship since I'll be away from my fitness center for 11 nights! If you see a short slender mid-40's woman in there looking puzzled at the equipment, it's probably me <g>!

[imgoingtodisney]

any DISers planning on walking deck 4?

[disney6]

I plan on sitting on the wonderful chairs on deck 4! I'll wave at you as you walk by though!

[imgoingtodisney]

What are the ladies wearing to formal & semi-formal nights? I just tried on the outfits I was going to bring and no way! I bought them for our 12/01 cruise. That was 29lbs ago. (5more to go). Dont really want to have them altered *** the style is gone now too that Ive lost the weight.

[disney6]

such problems! ;)

Formal night I'm wearing a black dress (above ankle by just a little). I will wear hose and heels this night only! DH will wear a suit and my Dad will wear a blue blazer and nice dress slacks (and tie of course). I don't know what step mom will wear, probably a "tea length" dress also. Last year she wore a formal pantsuit - looked great!

Semi-formal: Last time I wore nice black pants and beaded short sleeve top. May do the same since we didn't buy any pictures from that night so........ (who'd know?) sandals.

[3MinnieMom]

My DH's (only) 2 cousins had weddings within the past 2 years - now I can wear the dresses I bought for these occasions. One is more like a gown, while the other is tea-length (both are sleeveless).
My DH will wear a suit and tie (despite his grumblings...he doesn't like the thought of packing dress-up clothes, but once we all look formal on the cruise, he'll enjoy it)
My 5-yr old DD is easy (always enough dresses for that age group). It's my 9 & 10 yr old DDs that are tricky - they are too old for the "cutesy" little girl dresses, but too young for the sexy Junior dresses (although, I have to admit, we have been shopping more in the Junior section - with much discretion!!).

I'm looking forward to early morning walks (on Deck 4??). See you there! :smooth: :cool:

[acrucifer]

I really enjoyed my long walks on deck 4 last november when DW and I did the eastern cruise. so, will see youse guys on deck 4 in the morning. you wont miss me.

[imgoingtodisney]

Just watched the cruise video and boy is that a diet/exercise motivator! I want to be one of those girls running on Castaway Cay w/out needing to wear shorts to cover-up the thighs! lol

Anyone start packing yet? How much planning have ya done?

Its 11am - Im dancing away to Jimmy - Im ready to cut loose on top of that ship!

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

[tiggerhappy]

We're in the process of closing on our new house, so packing is all we're doing. I have the list started of the essential items that we're taking on the cruise-- the goal is one (large) suitcase and one rolling garment bag.

We travel a lot, and if there's one thing that I've noticed it's that a little time spent at weather.com is necessary to help pack appropriately. Sure, with the cruise it's a little tricky to guage the days at sea, but you can at least "know" what the weather will be the days at ports.

Can't wait to be on the ship!!!!:crazy:

[disney6]

The days at sea have found us in a bathing suit with a cover up. That's about it! We've never done the adult series though so maybe this time I'll put some clothes on during the day? Shorts and sleeveless top.

[wdw1972]

I'll definitely be walking on deck 4 - in the morning, afternoon and evening after dinner. Not sure which formal outfits I'll bring - whatever feels/fits best the week I'm packing, I guess!

[imgoingtodisney]

been counting down in weeks & days
just realized we leave 3months from today!
I think 13wks (from thurs) sounds closer


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

[imgoingtodisney]

Its Thurs morn!
Bev, I know you & I can say "we leave 13wks from today!" (anyone else leaving on Thurs?)
Its sounder closer & closer - I remember last yr my major countdown started at 12wks - right after Labor Day - cant believe Im at that same countdown again (well almost)

Before we know it we will be stepping onboard the Magic and having those sailaway drinks!

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

[3MinnieMom]

We're leaving on Wednesday - going to try-out Universal Studios and IOA for a few days before the cruise. What are your plans when you arrive on Thursday??

Our kids like to watch our Countdown Clock (showing the days), but it actually sounds like a much shorter wait when we say "less than 13 weeks" !!! :earseek:

[imgoingtodisney]

No Disney or Universal for us until Oct next year - we were there last Nov when our cruise got "redirected" - and we had been there Oct 01. Next year we're hoping to have our first stay at "home".

We leave our house Nov 6th (after work & school) to stay at the airport hotel in Providence. Will fly down Fri morn and stay at the Radisson at port. DISmeet anyone?

[wdw1972]

I leave on my birthday - Tuesday, 11/4. Originally the trip was 11/4 - 11/14 at Beach Club Villas to enjoy Food & Wine Festival, but last February I decided to book this cruise for the 2nd week. So, I'll have only 4 nights at Food & Wine, but next year I'll stick with the original plan & spend a longer time there. It's my favorite time of year to visit WDW - but I also love cruising!

[imgoingtodisney]

Our group will be celebrating the entire cruise! Yippee
Happy Birthday / Happy Anniversay to all who are having them before we step onboard the ship
Is there some one thing that you will be doing on the cruise to celebrate? Im thinking of Palos brunch on the 13th (depending on char brkfst).

[wdw1972]

Originally posted by imgoingtodisney
Our group will be celebrating the entire cruise! Yippee
Happy Birthday / Happy Anniversay to all who are having them before we step onboard the ship
Is there some one thing that you will be doing on the cruise to celebrate? Im thinking of Palos brunch on the 13th (depending on char brkfst).

The Palo brunch is something everyone raves about, but I know I could never eat dinner if I went to that brunch - even at the earliest seating. I just can't eat as much as most people - and don't need the calories since I'm pretty small/short.

I haven't thought of doing anything on the cruise to celebrate my birthday. The cruise starts 4 days after my birthday, so I'll probably just celebrate on the exact day - by spending the night at Comedy Warehouse after picking up some dinner at the Food & Wine Festival. We really haven't made any plans for the cruise, other than the mini golf thing in Cozumel. I mostly look forward to relaxing - on a lounge chair in the sun, on a lounge chair reading a book, walking on deck 4, working out in the gym, and going to dinner each evening. Best of all, my cell phone won't work once we leave Florida, so NO WORK can be done all week!

[3MinnieMom]

My DH's birthday is on Nov 7th. We'll be at Universal Studios on that day, so we'll probably celebrate with our 3 DDs at Hard Rock Cafe for dinner that evening. On the cruise he and I will celebrate his b-day with brunch at Palo's (at this time I'm planning on Thursday, also)...or maybe we should celebrate in the Suriel Bath at the Spa ;) :smooth: Have a great weekend everyone!!

[acrucifer]

will also be celebrating 7th wedding anniversary and 4-? birthday. will be celebrating on cozumel, just peel me off the beach!!!!

[imgoingtodisney]

Already thinking after going to Carlos n Charlies on Wed I may be celebrating my birthday on Thurs with a hangover. That place is absolutely wild! I was there w/MIL Dec 01 in the late morning. The girls who were dancing had their "girls" falling out of their shirts. Definately dont bring your kids there.

[nghtangl01]

Just wanted to bump us back up from the second page.

Hope everyone had a good weekend. Our last few weeks have been spent with family coming down one after another. Starting tomorrow back on the diet.

Cannot wait to see everyone. It even sounds better when you can say we are less than 3 months away.

:D :D :D

We plan on doing the Palo brunch one day. We are heading over to Disney for two days after the cruise to go to the last day of the Food and Wine Festival. It will be our first time and his first trip to Epcot.

[imgoingtodisney]

David - hows the newsletter going? Is next edition still set for Thurs the 14th?

Anyone planning on going to Chakanab after mini-golf?

[wdw1972]

Originally posted by imgoingtodisney
Anyone planning on going to Chakanab after mini-golf?

Not me. After mini golf I'm thinking we'll browse through some shops and then I'll enjoy the ship while so many of the other passengers have gone ashore!

[imgoingtodisney]

heres our thread Bev

[disneyeveryyear]

DH and I went to Illinois winery exhibit at the State Fair this week and we sacrificed ourselves and sampled many of the State's finest wines.

We chose two (I chose the blush and Bob chose the red). They will be packed and ready to go on Monday.

What are we doing about glasses? BYO? If so, we can bring our AAA mugs, then I will be able to say I only had 1 glass of wine:rolleyes: . What kind of wines or beers are you bringing?

Have a great week, and we'll be going 12 weeks from tomorrow!

[imgoingtodisney]

oh David - come out come out whereever you are
has anyone heard from David? we miss you

[acrucifer]

APB to All Sectors and States (All Points Bulletin)-"DAVID"
5'10"
HAIR-YES
EYES-TWO
COMPLEXION-NEEDS WORK
SEX-PROBABLY NOT AS MUCH AS HE WOULD PREFER (SPECULATIVE)

LAST SEEN PREPARING AUGUST 14TH NEWSLETTER, IF SEEN OR FOUND- DO NOT APPROACH!!!! COULD POSSIBLY BE CROUCHY FROM SUMMER HEAT AND DANGEROUS NOTIFY NEAREST DIS BOARD WESTERN CRUISE GROUP!!


WE THANK ALL CITIZENS FOR THEIR COOPERATION!!

p.s. hope you are enjoying your summer david and are not offended by my humor!!!

[alisbarc]

Hello all,
I am back from the state of confusion (well almost). Great post acrucifer. I really liked it, specially the sex part. Its really tough to get any night time extra curricular acitivities going doing the summer when the kids (all 4 of em') stay up later than you do. But school starts bright and early Monday morning so things could change quickly. And thanks a bunch for adding almost 5" to my hieght. Been about 5'5" most my life (since I was about 8 yrs old I think). Keep getting all this email spam for hair inplants, prescription drugs without a prescription, and enlargement of certain attributes but nothing on adding additional inches vertically.

My deepest apologies for missing the newsletter deadline. At this time I am up to my hind end in alagators, crocodiles, lions, tiggers and bears "oh my". Anyways, the new issue date is Monday Sept. 1 (Labor Day). I promise it will be worth the wait.

Bought into a small property management company and am having to turn the thing around from a pretty steep tailspin. Working 60 - 70 hours a week. There is a light at the end of the tunnel - It's November 8th.

We are also getting down to the final 6 weeks on the new house. Spending time every weekend cleaning, inspecting, etc.

Starting to pack for the move. Its amazing how much stuff we have accumulated. Some of it I don't even know where it came from.

On top of all that I got talked into volunteering to coach 4-5 yr old soccer at church (had first practice today) and to head up the "Wurst Cooking Contest" at the anual Oktoberfest carnival. Not sure how it happened. Think I went to the bathroom during the committee assignments at the last Knigths of Columbus meeting. That'll teach me to drink a Sonic route 44 limeade before any meetings.

ttfn
david

[3MinnieMom]

Nice to hear from you, David. September 1st sounds great for the next newsletter. You definitely don't lead a boring life! I'm going to need some tips on coaching little kids in soccer. My husband will be coaching U-10 girls league again this year, so he volunteered me to coach our 5-yr old DD's Kindergarten league. Don't think I'll be needing to teach them any of Mia Hamm's moves just yet, however! Our oldest DD starts a travelling league soccer team next week, our middle DD will start (with Dad as her coach) AYSO soccer next week, and our little one and I will start in early September. I also got "talked into" being a Religious Ed (CCD) teacher this Fall. I'll find out this Tuesday if I'm teaching Kindergarten, 4th grade, or 5th grade CCD. School for our kids doesn't start until Sept 2nd.

My sister just returned from the August 2nd Western Disney cruise. She has given me all her Navigators (incl the Kids' Navigators for 5-7 yr olds and 10-12 yr olds), and these have made for great reading the past few days. Due to time constraints this morning (I have to be at work by 9 AM - I play Mom during the week, and then I play pharmacist on the weekends), I'll briefly sum-up her trip: They (my sister, her DH, 15 yr old DD, 11 yr old DD, 10 yr old DS, and 7 yr old DS) began the trip quite disappointed (she didn't do a lot of pre-planning, although I tried to talk her into joining the Dis Boards), and, by the end of the cruise, they absolutely loved it!! They didn't rebook while on board, but they want to go again within the next 2 yrs. Her kids biggest disappointments: the size of the pools (and how crowded they were) and the Kids'Clubs. They all loved the meals, their servers, the shows, and, especially, the ports.

Take care, everyone! :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[disney6]

I coach our 5 year old daughters soccer (U6)- it's a lot of fun. I do it now because there is NO WAY I can coach them when they get older - you actually have to know something! ;) Right now they just all follow the ball around!
Sounds like you are pretty busy David. We hope to build our own home in a couple of years, I can't wait. (of course it will be back in the good ol' USA!)
My biggest advice for the kids clubs - go the first night! First cruise my kids (the two that were old enough) didn't go the first night and didn't really connect with anyone. 2nd cruise I made sure they did and my then 6 year old girl really met alot of kids that she played with at the pool and CC. They all had a great time. They spent time in there when there was an activity but not a lot for free play. Of course all the activities they wanted to do were at different times from each other! The best ones were right after early dinner and they would ALL go then giving us some needed adult time (until around 10ish). It was nice. They can't wait to go again (yes, the guilt is still there!).
School start here Sept. 2 but we don't get out until the last day of June. Makes for a pretty short summer!
We have power now! Were out about 12 hours Thurs. night and again for 2 hours Friday night but not since. Kids did NOT think of it as an adventure - oh well. Have a good one everyone!

[imgoingtodisney]

Hi guys - back from our last summer mini-vaca. Next vaca is the cruise! Next 11wks will be spent walking, dieting, etc and of course shopping, planning, packing, etc. DS enters 6th grade Sept 2nd.

Sept 1st sounds great David. Please make sure to wish Beverly a belated Happy Birthday. ( Aug 31st and its a milestone!)

[imgoingtodisney]

Good morning all

Time to get into cruise mode - not that I ever really left it but now it's becoming an almost reality again. Time to dig out the papers and see what still needs to be reserved. (dont think we have a rental car yet) Are you finished with all the reservations?

(I still need to unpack from our last mini-vaca before I can get out the cruise files)

[imgoingtodisney]

whats our # up to? Do I need to change the # at the bottom of my name?
When I was home at lunchtime I brought out the cruise folders! (Uhoh here we go again)

[alisbarc]

Will update the number in the next newsletter. Picked up a couple of new folks in August.

Alison is doing the happy dance tonight - tomorrow 3 of the 4 kids will be in school for a full day. She said something about a nice long bath, nap, and drinking a diet coke without having to share it with anyone, while Andrew is taking a nap. Andrew starts Mothers Day Out next week for 2 days so she will be kidless of about 9 hours a week.

Booked our airline tickets this week. Gonna fly in on Friday and spend the night at the Radisson. Anyone else spending Friday night at the Radisson?

Working on the newsletter. Lots of info coming in this one. If November comes as quick as the summer has gone we will be cruising in about 72 hours. Don't know what happen to July and August. Man how time fly's once you pass the 40 mark.

ttfn
david

[imgoingtodisney]

Hi David - good to hear from you
I agree - the summer flew. It will be good to be back in a routine for a few months before stepping onboard the Magic. Gotta get the diet/exercise back under control.
(You still owe me a picture)
Will you have t-shirt info in the next newsletter?
And yes we are booked at the Radisson Fri night. Dont know how we're getting there but we will be attempting to sleep there. See ya at the pool.

[acrucifer]

I concur, time is flying by. The unofficial end of summer is only a week away with the arrival of Labor Day. Let us be ready to make some noise during the sailing away party at 5pm on 11-8. In 3 short weeks we will be down to 60 days. I dont know about you but I have waited on lines at the local department of motor vehicles that have lasted longer than that!!!! so, as you can tell I am psyched!!! and I just stepped off the magic 10 months ago. maybe I have a too much enthusiasm this time around..... naaah!!!

[imgoingtodisney]

oh my God! 11wks from today and we step on board the MAGIC!
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

so who is in a cat 3 and hosting a DISmeet?
Are we planning a meet on Sat?

[imgoingtodisney]

The Magic has set sail again
10 more before ours!
:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[imgoingtodisney]

Can someone please help me with posting a link?
I started a thread thats over on pg 2 -

? for minigolf sally - school supplies

that I would like connected to our thread
I thought it would be a nice gesture - even something for a dollar or two - what do you guys think?

[imgoingtodisney]

Where is everyone? Getting kids ready to go back to school?

Whats up for the long weekend? We may do the zoo, movies, hike, etc. Its strange for us not to be going away over this long wknd and Columbus Day but want to save the money for the cruise.

Take care everyone - we only have 70+ days to go!

[wdw1972]

Originally posted by imgoingtodisney
Where is everyone? Getting kids ready to go back to school?

Whats up for the long weekend?

Saturday I begin 5 nights at WDW, followed by the 3-day Wonder cruise. I hate short cruises, but since it's at the tail end of a Disney trip I'll look at it as just a floating resort vacation <g>.

There's a new show called Golden Mickeys, which should be performed on my cruise. Unfortunately, it won't be on the Magic by the time our November cruise sails. A friend works for DCL and saw some video of the new show and said it looks good. Frankly, it's about time they started changing them! I won't shed any tears when Morty the Magnificent takes his last bow!

I'll be taking a rental car on my trip - today I was in a car accident and my car had to be towed away. I wasn't hurt at all, but a woman plowed into a woman behind me (sending her to the hospital), who in turn hit me, and I in turn hit the guy in front of me. What a way to start a day - and just before a vacation! Hopefully my car will be fixed while I'm gone. It's only 4 months old and I LOVE it - and I really really hate this cheap rental car!

Sue

[imgoingtodisney]

Just realized that our 60day mark is Sept 9th. We get to look out for the excursion info - ok so we're not doing DCL excursions but it means time is getting closer - lol

Better get rededicated to the "diet"

[Fay Ray]

It seems like it's been weeks since I've read any of your posts! The Albrecht's are alive and well. Summer is winding down and Troy is back to school on 9/3. We had the PGA Championship in Rochester this month so that was fun and exciting! In fact we were along the ropes between the 8th green and the 9th tee when Phil Mickelson tossed Troy his golf ball! That certainly made his day. Of course it was on Friday when Mickelson went from leading to about 5 strokes back..... Probably the funniest part of the whole week was the supposed "Tiger Sitings". Starbucks, Wegman's (our local grocery chain), were just some of the places he was supposed to have been. So I guess if Tiger Woods wakes up in the middle of the night and wants ice cream he just goes to the local grocery, right? I think some people were seeing things........We're spending this weekend in Syracuse to see Brian's parents and a trip to the NYS Fair. Steely Dan is playing and we've always wanted to see them, so now is our chance. Free Troy watching by Grandma is a perk too!!

I can't believe we're 71 days away!!!

Take care.

Fay Ray
(Linda)

[nghtangl01]

I just got home about thirty minutes ago, only to find an envelope from DCL in the mail.

It listed all the shore excursions and the form to fill out and book your excursions in advance. :)

Now it is really feeling so close.

Hope everyone has a safe and happy Labor Day weekend.

[imgoingtodisney]

I think it may be time this wknd to dig into those cruise folders and see what needs to be done still - Avis car, hotel ressie, etc.

DH brought home (3) 1/2gals of ice cream today, big bag M&Ms and a lg & sm pizza! Oh man, I need incentive to stay away!

Think tropical trees, think Castaway Cay, think boat drink, think tankini, think sailaway, think palm trees, think less than 70days cant blow it now!

Anyone flying out of Atlanta Fri mid-morn? Thats where we have a connection

[imgoingtodisney]

This morn I started going through the cruise folders. Had last Nov excursion confirmations in there still - Im sure there will be more cleaning out to do as I continue
Booked our park n fly for the night and Avis cars both to port and back to MCO
Hows everyones plans coming along?

[acrucifer]

after months of writing about the western cruise, talking about it, contemplating it and dreaming of it, my wife finally tells me she is now, at day68, officially getting excited about Our 11-8-03 cruise. ahhh, my fellow dis ers, it wont be long now!!!

[imgoingtodisney]

Today is a special day for Beverly
Have a hap hap happy Special day

[alisbarc]

Happy 29th birthday Beverly.

I am busy working on the newsletter. It will go out sometime today.

Gonna be 2 more. One around the 20 day mark and a final one one the one week mark.

ttfn
david

[alisbarc]

Newsletter has been sent. I have not been as diligent these past 8 weeks as I should have been. So if there are any new folks out there please send me your email address and I will forward today's and the first 5 to you.
ttfn
david

[mac_tlc]

Hi Dave,

Got newsletter #6 , great job as always ...

You mentioned that you do did not have an Old Key West DVC member ... well, look no more!!! We have been members at OKW since 1992. In fact, we were there last week, just before school started... Now, you just need to find a HH member..

mac_tlc

[imgoingtodisney]

mac_tlc -- where/when are you flying back to FL for the cruise?

We're flying out of TF Green 7am 11/7, changing in Newark, spending Fri night at the Radisson

they wouldnt dare cancel the 11/8 w/2 of us survivors on there, would they? What would they then do? have our next cruise at 1/4 pts?

[alisbarc]

Hello Everyone,

Beverly (disneyeveryyear) has graciously volunteer to head up the initial DIS meet and the wine/beer tasting. Watch the thread for exiting news from Beverly about these 2 events.
ttfn
David

[dianthus]

HH member found...

We own at Hilton Head and Boardwalk, but I thought I posted that after the last Newsletter...? We are golfing fanatics... luv HH!

It looks like Taylor may be bringing a buddy with her on this trip, so we may have one more in our group. Will know shortly...

David, thanks again for taking the time to do the newsletter- great job!

Beverly~ Thanks for heading up the 2 events- brave woman! I'd be happy to bring some great CT wine for the wine tasting. How many bottles? mac_tlc- ever hear of "Ballet of Angels"? Great wine- winery is up by you guys, in the Eastern corner somewhere...

We celebrated Doug's big 50 B day this weekend!Went into the City. Stayed at the W in Times Square & had a cosmo in the "living room". Didn't see the Sex & the City girls, to Doug's dismay... LOL! We saw Hairspray & had front & center seats for a new show- Little Shop of Horrors- both were terrific! It was a really memorable B day for him. We are now looking forward to celebrating our 25th anniversary on the cruise!

Can't wait!

~ Linda :D

[imgoingtodisney]

Hi Linda - where/when are you flying down?

Bev - thanks for heading up these 2 events

(I dont even know yet our own family plans -is DH coming w/us? Do I count on him for mini-golf? What about snorkeling? Can I commit him to Palos brunch? or just have him committed?! "This is not my idea of vacation!" "Im not wearing pants to dinner"
DS, on the other hand, IS looking forward to the cruise)

Did you see that 10/11 got their docs?

[mac_tlc]

Hi Barb,

We are flying from Hartford to West Palm Beach on Friday 11/7, mid-afternoon. Return is mid-afternoon 11/15, with a change in Charlotte.

Not sure where we are staying on 11/7. We get in late, so I'll probably get someplace near PBI and drive up to the ship early Saturday.

I think if they cancel again, we just get to pick any date, any category for $0 or 0 points... (as they say "Nothing is more powerful than the imagination ")


mac_tlc

[imgoingtodisney]

I like your way of thinking! It was my way of thinking that got me in trouble last Nov! A few days ahead I kept thinking it would be cancelled! 0pts/$0 sounds great!

I noticed on the 11/1 thread they are planning on a DISmeet 5-6pm right after the sailaway, deck 7. What do you guys think? We'll be rushing to get dressed (maybe) for 6pm dinner but will have time to at least drop in and meet some people.

[disney6]

We are flying in Friday afternoon to West Palm Beach also! My DH's Dad and wife live there and we are spending the night with them and driving to the port Sat. morning. The BIG problem -- our return flight leaves PBI at 12:30 Saturday! Guess we'll be off the ship really quick! We would never had done this with the kids though! The last time they drove up and met us at Port Canaveral for dinner, it's only about 2 1/2 hours away. Greg's (DH) sister is flying up from West Palm on Wed. night before the cruise to watch our kids and flying back Sunday after (11/16). Seems kinda funny we're just switching places!

Better get the kids up and TO SCHOOL!!! This is great! Actually, Ian (11) came home yesterday mid day (yes, it was the 1st day of school) with an ear infection and is in extreme pain right now, so he won't be going. Bummer to miss the first couple of days! The littlest one (4) starts in 1 1/2 weeks and goes 2 or 3 days (all day) a week (depending on the week). So I'm not totally there yet, but close!

good day all!

[acrucifer]

bump

[dianthus]

Hi Barb~

We'll be flying down 11/7 after Taylor gets out of school. They have 1 day off & 4-1/2 days for conferences the week we're cruising so it's great she won't miss too much school- Middle School Teachers get cranky about that sort of thing... We are going to stay 11/15 at an Epcot resort, not sure which one yet & fly home Sunday. We want to try to get on Mission Space before we go home & do the day at the Food & Wine festival at Epcot.

We're not sure where we're flying out of - Hardford, or JFK. The fares are running cheaper @ JFK than Hartford. It's the same distance for us, but JFK is such a hassle. Waiting to hear if Taylor's friend is coming before I book flights...

We are staying at the Radisson Friday night before the cruise.

BTW- Did ya spring for the Pradas, or did you decide on nice, sensible shoes! LOL!

~ Linda :D

[imgoingtodisney]

DISmeet at the Radisson 11/7! at the pool after dinner?

DS (6th grd) will be missing 4school days - Fri 11/7, 11/12-11/15 - 11/10 is a teacher day and the 11th is Veterans Day. First 1/4 report cards come out while we're away and I'll need to schedule a seperate teacher meeting *** they are on the 10th. Oh well, at least DS so far likes his 2 teachers. Hopefully they'll think travelling is a great idea.

We ended up paying $270 ea for our rt airfare! Last year it was $180 if I remember right. Would be cheaper if we took a noon return flight. But it's gonna be hard enough to get me off the ship - never mind onto the plane. Give me some time to check out my other "home" VWL.

Looked for black sandals, shoes this past wknd - didnt find any. May go with black pant shoes I already own - I'm wearing a long black skirt so hopefully noone will notice. At least I wont fall off them!

Can you believe it's 9wks (63 days) from today that we leave?!

[alisbarc]

Count us in for the DIS meet at the Radisson. We will be the short ones with 4 obnoxous childern and one old lady (my MIL). Actually we will probably be doing pizza or something like that pool side for dinner.

9 weeks to loose 12 pounds. No more snacks for me.
ttfn
david

[imgoingtodisney]

Pizza poolside for the boys, salad for me sounds great. We'll be doing lots of dining rooms onboard ship - I hope. DH gave ok today to buy him pants online - yoohoo

Did I ask about having a poker night/afternoon/etc? DH is looking for gambling. Told him I would ask about a poker game.

9wks from tonight and we head to the airport! Gotta keep off the 30lbs I lost (4 more to go). David look for a skinnier/narrower version from the pic I sent you.

[Tesabat]

Alas - No Radisson Dis Meet for me. We don't arrive until 11:00 PM Friday. We are going to drive to Cocoa Beach though, coz we figure we will be too keyed up to just stay in Orlando. Trying to locate the least expensive room - and still be comfortable - as we are basically just going to crash there for a few hours.

Thus, hoping that we'll have the wine/beer mixer, as the Cozumel mini-golf isn't working out either. We'll be visiting Tulum - as my 12yo son has been wanting to see those particular ruins since he was about five! :)

Pants?? Poker game? Is it just coincidence those two statements are in the same post? ;)

[alisbarc]

Count me in on a poker game. Will be saving my change or dollars for the big game. I'll play anything, stud, texas hold em, baseball, follow the Queen, sh#$ on your neighbor, draw, or any other game. Sounds like a great activity for one of the days at sea. Poker, beer, and a plate of chocolate chip cookies. It doesn't get any better than that.
ttfn
david

[dianthus]

tesabat~

If you're arriving that late, think about staying at the MCO Hyatt. If you're a AAA member, you can get a good rate. You can get up the next morning, grab a rental car downstairs & drive to the Port- about 40 to 45 minutes. You may end up feeling fresher that way. We stayed there the night before our first cruise & it was fun watching the planes on the runway. It's soundproofed too!

Barb~ Your son is in 6th grade & only has 2 teachers? Is your school small? My daughter is in 7th & has a cluster of them! 5 academic + 3 unified arts, a different teacher each period. It was that way in 6th too. I'm missing our conference too- that's why they have 1/2 days all that week, but we'll schedule one with the cluster upon our return.

David~ you sound like a card shark! Watch out Mr. No Pants! You're gonna lose your shirt too! LOL!
If you like chocolate chip cookies, you have to do the Behind the Scenes kitchen tour of Lumiere's- usually on the last sea day. They give you freshly baked choc. chip cookies & the recipe for them- of course the recipe is for 5,000 cookies at a time! ( Plenty for poker!) They have a VERY large kitchenaid machine. The whisks in there look like they were made for giants... It's really very interesting...

~ Linda :D

[disneyeveryyear]

Bob and I are sitting here watching the World Series of Poker on ESPN and I just told him about the Poker Game.

He raised his hands high in the air and said "Count me in." He was also a little bummed that there was no casino. He is always up for a game of poker. He is also very flexible and willling to play any game.

I just lost my entire post and have to try to recreate it. Of course it was a true masterpiece and this will probably not be nearly as good.

For those of you who may be new, you need to know that David (aka Alisbarc) is a CPA and may well be counting cards. He is sure to be a whiz at the laws of probability, so you may want to ply him with your local beer and wine before you play poker with him.

I guess in addition to the two bottles of wine (one red and one blush) that we are packing for the wine/beer & cheesefest, I will also pack a new deck of cards.

Here are a couple of thoughts for our DIS Meet and Wine/beer & cheesefest:

DIS Meet: If I remember correctly, safety drill should be over by 4:30 p.m. and sail away party doesn't start until 5:00 p.m. How about 4:30 on Saturday afternoon? If that sounds good to you guys, then we can work on a place.

Wine/beer & cheesefest: I think Monday (our first full day at sea) would be a great time to have our little get together. I need to check Dave's site for recent Navigators but how does 3:30 or 4:00 p.m. sound to you all? That would give everyone time to go back and change if they have early dining.

Let me know your thoughts. You can post here or PM me.

Have a great night!

[imgoingtodisney]

oh my God! That was too funny "Mr No Pants" Its just after 6am and I had the biggest chuckle
DS says he has "something like 12 teachers" but there are 2 main team teachers. At conferences we only meet with them.

Would the DISmeet at 430 be too early? Whos gonna bring the life jackets back to the rooms? Would 445 deck 7 aft be any easier? Just a suggestion
And Mon 330/4pm sounds great! That would give us sunbathers time to enjoy the sun and us early diners time to get ready for dinner.
What about mini-golf and snorkeling? Are we walking there as a group? or meeting there?
What do mini-golfers think of a sm donation for Cozumel school kids? Sally has a drop-off for the needy. A pkg of pens or pencils wouldnt take up that much luggage space nor cost that much either.

[disney6]

Something to think about....... Monday is formal night and formal pictures start around 5 or 5:30 I think, need to recheck Barb's website. We have late seating so your times are ok with us but those with early seating it may be too late. If we met a little earlier (say 2:30ish) on the "secret" deck 7 deck Barb could come in her bathing suit (make that her tankini!!!;) ) and still soak up some rays while tasting/visiting! (I'm all for dressing that way also!)

I love the "Mr. No Pants!" Would he be offended if he knew he was called that, or is he a pretty good sport about it?????

[imgoingtodisney]

It all depends on his mood at the moment so before anyone calls him "Mr No Pants" please check on his mood. It may end up being an inside joke.

Earlier sounds good to me to meet Mon afternoon. Im not much of a swimmer - more of a sun lover!

[dianthus]

Barb~

Sorry, didn't mean to cause trouble.... was only kidding!
It just came out, blame it on these typing fingers!:p
How about...

Mr. No LONG Pants... or

Mr. Shorts Only

sounds like he's still gonna lose 'em to David...

His only hope may be to feed him with chocolate chip cookies until David is rendered into a sugar induced stupor... ( beer will help too), then place your bets... how's that for a plan!:rolleyes: LOL!

[imgoingtodisney]

No trouble at all - I thought it was absolutely hilarious!

I had a dream last night that I made it to the 5pm sailaway w/out checking in - no room key, no Palos or Spa ressies
But I did make it to the buffet and met everyone! Great bunch of DISers - adults & kids

We're getting closer - 9wks from today we sail away
:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

Who's making up a room # list? We're in 6124

[acrucifer]

greetings all. I would like to take advantage of the experience and expertise of of my fellow Dis ers to help me address a problem. the problem: I booked reservations for this cruise 7 months in advance (as a dvc member, I couldnt book it earlier) and the only main dinner seating time they had was late 8:30pm. they put me on a waiting list for the earlier 6pm seating.
although I probably have never eaten dinner that late in my life, I will do it if I have to. I was wondering if anyone has any ideas on how I might increase my chances of getting the earlier seating time. thanks to all who consider my question. and by the way david, as a previous disney cruiser I can tell you that you can use your own scuba equipment on castaway cay and snorkeling equipment as well.

I would like to suggest as a possible meeting place, the promenade lounge, it is a good size place, can seat a hundred people and is usually empty many afternoons. it is a Bar and lounge area. just a thought.

they also have a nice brandy and cigar social at the espn sportszone bar which is well attended by the guys. and once in internation waters, they sell real cohibas, from havana. again just a thought.

enjoy the Fall, everyone.

[disney6]

FYI - with DVC you can book 11 mo. out - wanted you to know for next time!

We've always had early so this time we are trying late because we don't have to kids. I'd go to the dining changes station when you board if you don't get early and really want it.

The promenade lounge is a great place! My parents spent many hours there! It's quiet and lots of space. Fine by me, but I'm not picky.

ESPN bar will no longer exist when we sail. It will be the teen club. Apparently the teen club will be a coffee bar. Maybe they'll find somewhere else for your brandy and cigar social. My DH would like that as he cannot smoke a cigar when our son is anywhere near - he has a fit.

Barb - glad to hear Mr No Pants will be wearing pants now!

[imgoingtodisney]

The ship has left once again
Now we really can say
8.5 more wks!
:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[disney6]

:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[acrucifer]

actually, according to member sevices and my dvc contract, you can book your "home resort" 11 months out, but anywhere else in disney you must wait until 7 months out. unfortunate, but true. thanks for you suggestion and info. pretty helpful.. I am very sadden by the new of the espn sports bar being gone. that is tragic, I really loved that place. I am sure they could find another place for the teens. this will take me time to accept. so long for now.

[acrucifer]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!! SAY IT AINT SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! SOMEBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[imgoingtodisney]

Not so with the cruise tho - it's 11 months from sailing day too - not from getting off the ship (check out date)

We booked New Years Eve 01 for the 11/30/02 cruise (12/30 was a Sun). I remember ringing in the New Year knowing we were booked on a cruise!

Booked 12/8/02 for the 11/8/03

[dianthus]

Acrucifer~
Once the 60 day window passes, cancellations occur & your chances of Main Dining increase. On our last cruise, we were waitlisted for Main & got it when we received cruise docs

After that cruise, we decided we would never do Main dining again. Too much rushing at the end of the day and there are so many little ones in there, which is the rotation they should be in. If you have little ones, I certainly can understand your concern.


Good Luck! Your chances of getting it once on board is probably good so I wouldn't worry about!

~ Linda

[acrucifer]

thanks Linda,

that certainly gives me some hope. and whether or not it comes through, I have had a difficult year so this cruise will be magical even if I eat at midnight!! besides perhaps eating later will give us a different perspective on the evening. thanks again.

[Fay Ray]

Hi Everyone!
I see on your counters that today (Sunday) is 62 days from our cruise. So I am assuming we can make our Disney Shore Excursion Ressies on Tuesday the 9th? We are doing the Western Union Sail in Key West and the Seahorse Snorkel on CC.
AAA has asked for our final payment, I was hoping that they might forget;)

[disney6]

AAA has asked for our final payment, I was hoping that they might forget
Now THAT would be even better than an upgrade!

As of now, we are not doing any shore excursions.

[alisbarc]

Hello All,

Ok Bev, no fair giving away any inside information on playing poker. Heck there are only 52 cards, anyone can count to 52. Just remember, never bet on an inside straight and never raise with 2 pairs. Plus, I never OD on chocolate chip cookies, have years of tolerance built up.

Really looking forward to the wine tasting. Gonna pull out my old Alexis Lachine World of Wines book to do some research. Can anyone name the 5 first growths according to the 1855 classification? Even though I have sworn off French wines they, at one time, did it better than anyone else. However, good ole American ingenuity has taken over and now the California Napa Valley produces what many consider the best wines today. Had a Frogs Leap Cab the other night. It was great. My personal favorite is a dessert wine called "Sweet Nancy" made by Calaway winery of Temecula, CA. Gonna try and find a couple of bottles to share on the cruise.

Ok, here is another question for the wine conniseurs out there. Who can name the 6 levels of german wines in order from the dryest to the sweetest? And, what are the 2 major wine producing areas of Germany and what color bottles do each one use?

After all that I think I'm heading to the fridge to have a nice cold Miller. Never met a beer I didn't like (well actually thats not true, had this pumpkin beer once in a brew pub in Richmond, VA ... man was it awful).

Ok, a couple of more question for bonus points. How many standard size bottles are in a nebecaneezer (not sure of the spelling)? And finally, what 2 famous wineries got together to produce Opus 1?

I worked my way through college selling wine at Tennessee's largest wine store. Did tastings for many years. Last one I did was about 5 years ago for a subdivision home owners group. Had to stop doing them when tweedle dee and tweedle dum (Matthew & Andrew) came along. Come to find out that I have cheap taste. Seem to like the less expensive stuff better which works out real well when you are a tight wad like me.

ttfn
david

[imgoingtodisney]

No DCL excursions here
Hoping to do mini-golf on Cozumel and snorkel w/stingrays at Grand Cayman - may pickup a float or 2 at Castaway Cay

Took DS to the Mystic Aquarium yesterday. In the next few wks they are adding a ray touch tank.

[imgoingtodisney]

hey guys - where are ya? I found us on pg 4

Now DH has agreed to keep the pants! (Says he wouldnt look good in any pants *** of his size) Ahhhhh - Im going crazy here

We're almost at the 7.5wk countdown

[Tesabat]

Originally posted by alisbarc
. question for the wine conniseurs out there.

So David - I take it you won't be sampling my Boone's Farm Strawberry Crapple?? ;) Just kidding - I'll bring something nice...Now Oeniphile nice?? Not sure. Quaffable - Yes. Most definitely!! :)

[disneyeveryyear]

David, I would have had Bob bring a bottle of Opus One from the Club's wine cellar, but unfortunately, it is not an Illinois wine, so that wouldn't be right, would it?

I guess we'll have to stick with that wine from Piasa, Illinois. David, here's your trivia questions - can you pronounce Piasa, and what is the town named after?

Beverly

Barb, you are ahead of yourself again. Tomorrow makes 8 weeks for me and you.

[imgoingtodisney]

Hi Bev - yes tomorrow is exactly 8wks till we both leave
However, at 501pm tomorrow night I can say departure is less than 8wks so that makes 7.5wks, right? Or do I need to wait till the ship actually leaves port Sat night to say 7.5wks?

[Alice in Cleveland]

What's up with the pants? I'm new to the cruise board and I'm seeing lots of posts about pants.:confused:

[alisbarc]

Hi Tesabat,

Hey, nothing wrong with Boones Farm. My first foray into wine quaffing was Boones Farm Tickle Pink followed by a Red, White, and Blue Beer chaser. I think I was 16 or 17. We paid some older guy $1 to buy it for us at the corner 7-11. Graduated quickly to Reunite. If we were feeling really suffisticated and rich we would splurge on a Blue Nun. Personally, I was partial to Boones Farms Strawberry Hill in my younger days. But my real favorite back then (and still is one of my favorites now) is Asti Spumante.

ttfn
david

[disneyeveryyear]

Hi Alice,

The whole pants story is quite long, but imgoingtodisney's DH was refusing to go to dinner in the dining room if he couldn't wear shorts. There was an entire thread about the fact that he didn't own any dress slacks and didn't want to buy or bring any.

Luckily it has all been resolved, she mail-ordered pants for him and he is going to keep them. Crisis solved, but still very humorous. We are jokingly calling him "Mr. No Pants", but don't let him know, he is kind of sensitive about it.

That's all - no big deal, just a joke.

Are you joining us on November 8th?

[imgoingtodisney]

Good morning everyone - so how many wks is it?
(Bev - Im changing my counter to 8wks at 504pm tonight)
We're getting closer

Asked DH about the wine. We'll be flying down with Picala & Malibu Rum. DH wants to buy the wine (and his vodka) in FL. David isnt Asti a champagne? Maybe we'll get 1 of them to help with all the celebrations!

[acrucifer]

big giant get out my way bump!!!

[imgoingtodisney]

Hi everyone - trying to get a list of who is assigned which room and what dining times we all have. Hopefully Dave can add this to his next newsletter. Ive read back through this thread and now have some of you but not all. Also do you think it would be rude to email those who are on Dave's list but not on this thread? Dont want them to feel left out. thanks

[cjp/dvc]

Barbara...as one of those on David's list but only an occasional post on the board I think it would be fine to put out an all call. Although I don't often participate I do catch up in spurts and enjoy learning a little about everyone.
DH Joe and I (you might remember me as the high school assistant principal David warned all the teens about in an early newsletter) will be on board with DS Jeff (27) and his significant other Meg who may soon be DIL! If all the DISers of 11/8 Magic really believe in Tinkerbelle's magic dust than maybe some dreams will come true.
To catch up on some old questions...we are DVC members since '72...and belong at OKW and HH.
I will pay more attention to the board from now on as the busiest of my summer work is over-Preparing everything for a high school of 1100 teens to return! However, it is good to start fresh each September and it takes a while before the "frequent flyers" to the high school vice principal's office get into full gear! How soon, you never know, but come November 8th you will be able to tell how busy it has been by checking out my bar bill on martinis at Sessions (piano bar)after dinner...sometimes before!
Regarding a place to meet for an initial greeting...might I suggest somewhere covered? The Promenade area is a good suggestion...as On our Western Magic cruise last summer our DISgreet was spoiled by rain as we sailed away. We had planned a pool area and the few who remained were soaked. Other greets/events are a terrific idea as well as a published room list in case some cannot make a gathering...but want to leave a note to arrange some time/place during the week. We missed some DISers on board and had to reconnect on line after the cruise. Also, what's the latest on our green nametags? DH got our 4 at Home Depot last week.
Count us in for the Wine/Beer tasting. Using the rear deck 7 is a great idea...it is one of our favorite hangouts and will be perfect. The last time we cruised Joe Namath (NY Jets quarterback in the 70's) was onboard and spent his sunning time there to avoid the crowds...he was with DD's & friends. Tommy Smothers of Smothers Brothers fame was also on board with his family. Namath was incredibly personable on deck 7, at the Tulum ruins tour, and he offered to be available for a one hour spontaneous Q & A for guests to attend so they could take photos and ask questions...afterwards everyone appreciated his graciousness and gave him lots of space and privacy...
Well, I may not have posted often...but they are long!
Don't forget, this is a repeat cruise for us, so if we can be of any help with questions/answers...don't hesitate.
Looking forward to meeting many of you-SOON!

[imgoingtodisney]

Its Sat morn - Magic sets sail again today - yippee - cross off another week!

Did you guys see we have a 11/8 cruiser lost on another thread? Gotta get the Sarcone family over here. Thats the name they posted under for their thread. It says cruisin in Nov - doesnt give the date in the title. I already replied but help me please

[dianthus]

OK Barb, I did my part... After my post they are bound to come over here, even just out of curiosity! I hope I didn't scare 'em away... :rolleyes: LOL - Welcome Sarcone's if you are reading this!

Taylor's friend Marissa is coming with us. Watch out everyone... the dynamic duo will be on board! Non stop action, non stop energy, lots of fun!

My sister & BIL will not be sailing with us. His Dad is very ill & they really can't leave him. He's not in good shape. So they cancelled right before the penalties kicked in. So sad, :( , we're gonna miss them... But there will be another time...

We finally got our plans set. Flying out of Hartford on 11/7 & staying at the Radisson the night before. We are staying over 11/15 after the cruise at the Swan-doing EPCOT ~Mission Space & Food & Wine Fest, MGM & returning home 11/16 late.

Barb ~ For your list - Stateroom #7544 - & late dining for us.

~ Linda :D

[imgoingtodisney]

thank you Linda
- sorry your sister and BIL wont be able to join us

Looking forward to meeting you at the Radisson that Fri night

[imgoingtodisney]

this is what Ive got so far:

IGTD - 6124 - main dining
Alisbarc - 6016 & 6018 - ?
nghtangl01 - deck 7 - late
fay ray - deck 7 aft - late
3minnie mom - SPRs deck 5 - ?
Johnathan's mom - ? - main
mactlc - 7570 - late
mactlc neighbors- cat 4 - late?
mactlc SIL - cat 9 - late?
tesabat - deck 6 - ?
disneyeveryear - 2122/2124 - late
shooter - 6641 - ?
CJP/DVC - 6644/6646 - late
acrucifer - deck 6 - late
disney 6 - 6624 - late
disney 6 parents - 6643 - late?
dianthus - 7544 - late
mousegoofy - 8560 - late
figgy 77 - 6594 - ?
Sarcone - 7505/7507 - ?

DISers from Daves newsletters who we dont have much info on:
Nuke, Kaelysmom, WDW1972, Tiggerhappy, Sandra/David/Conner, Bugpeanut, gijuju, msec-dvc95, sunny suse, Diane/Bob/Maria/Nicole, goofy4wdw59, teamprinty, Jon/Sue/Nicolle

thank you

[acrucifer]

yes, it is deck 6, late dinner seating, although I am hoping for main. and I am looking forward to meeting all the diverse and interesting people on this dis list. somewhere over 100! unfortunately, we will lose contact with each other when we leave for Florida, so I am glad we will have a pre determined place to meet. anyway, we will all have a good time. so long for now.

[MouseGoofy]

Hi all,

I have not had a chance to check in as often as I would like but we are still here. We are in cabin 8560 on deck 8 and we have late seating for dinner. This is the first time we have had late seating and I guess the question will be if Ben (DS11) will be eating with us or with the kids from the oceaneers lab.

John

[sarcone]

Hello, all! Thank you for responding to my message in the wrong location.

We are the Sarcone family from Des Moines IA and will on our first cruise ever with DCL on Nov. 8th. We consist of myself, DH, DD age 13 (turning 14 on Nov. 11th), DD - age 11, DD - age 8, DS - age 5 and DD - age 3. My DM - age 80 is also attending with us.

We look forward to meeting some of you on the ship. We are in adjoining cat. 10 on Deck 7; I believe staterooms 7505-7507. Do not yet know our dining time but probably early as we have little ones.

We booked last Nov. as our 2002 XMAS present. The wait has been hard but not too much longer now!

Do I need to inform DCL staff of my daughter's birthday or do they know from our booking information? I would like something special for her.

[dianthus]

Welcome Sarcone Family! We're glad you joined us!

If you have a birthday you want celebrated on a certain day, it's best to call your TA, or DCL direct and put in a request ahead of time. They can confirm your dining time, which should be Main if you booked so far ahead. Then remind your server the first night of the cruise. Our DD celebrated her B day on board 2 years ago & they brought her a beautiful chocolate cake with a white chocolate ribbon on it with the Magic's picture in Dark Chocolate- very nice. I heard on this board they give a pin? She didn't get one, so I don't know about that... Ask your server about it. Our anniversary is on 11/11 too! Lots of celebrations going on in this group...

I have 2 almost 13 yr. olds with us, my DD & her friend. David has a 13 yr. old DD too, so it sounds like there will be a lot of young teens on the ship. All the kids will have fun- big kids too, like us!DCL does a great job & this will be vacation your family will cherish!

Read thru the thread and contact david- email is listed on the first post. He'll clue you in & send you the newsletters he's done for everyone. He's done a terrific job~ you'll be impressed.

~ Linda

[imgoingtodisney]

Please take a minute to check out the 11/8 celebration thread. Who/what did I miss? Thank you

[Tesabat]

IGTD - We have late seating. :)

[nghtangl01]

I haven't responded lately. But had to state we have already started packing. Getting ready to place the order for his tux. We are going down to get our marriage license in 2 weeks from tomorrow.

Then it is really going to start feeling real. We have Biketoberfest getting ready to start on Oct 10 so the month of October will go by very fast for us.

Cannot wait to receive the cruise docs and meet everyone.

Hope everyone had a good weekend.

[MouseGoofy]

Hello,

I know that I have seen on this thread that some of you will be staying at The Radison at the Port on Friday night before we cruise. Do any of you know the chances of getting a room without a reservation. We are driving this year and I am not sure if we will make it all the way on Friday. I guess it will depend on how long DW sleeps while I'm driving (While she is sleeping she can't tell me to slow down.)


Thanks for your help,

John (Who does really drive safely but has just been trained by Chicago's expressway traffic.)
;)

[momof2greatgirls]

After reading 31 pages about all of you I figured it was time for us to introduce ourselves.

There are 10 of us, myself, DH, DD age 9 and DD age 5 from Indiana, our first cruise with DCL, in cabin 5514, late dining

My sisters family (her second cruise with DCL), her DH and DD age 8 and DD age 6 from Florida, in cabin 5516, late dining, and

Our Parents, their first cruise with DCL, from Indiana in cabin 5518 late dining.

I have sent an email to David to get the latest newsletter and can't wait to see what he has put together. It sounds like there is a great group here and a lot of fun to be had!
Lisa

[acrucifer]

bump

[imgoingtodisney]

Welcome to the 11/8 thread Mom of 2 great. Thanks for your info
I'm sending an email off to David to make sure he reads this.

Mousegoofy - I started a new thread "Chances of Radisson without ressie"
I think when I booked they told me we had until 6pm to cancel. That may be your best best. Take their phone # with you and if it seems like you wont be making it cancel.

[3MinnieMom]

Hi, Momof2GreatGirls! Looks like we'll be neighbors on the cruise - myself, aka Janine, my DH, and my 3 great girls, DD 10, DD 9, and DD 5 yrs old - will be across the hall from you in 5022 and 5024! My DH and I are both Purdue graduates (Go Boilers!) - where are you from in Indiana? It's great to know there are more girls in our group (although my 3 girls have no problems hanging out with the boys, too!)

Our family will be in the First (Main) Dining.

Has anyone booked excursions through Disney yet? I called today to book my DH and 2 older DD's on the Banana Boat on Castaway Cay. The first available time I could book was 11:30 AM (the 10:30 and 10:50 times were already booked). We are booking most of our other excursions (i.e Captain Bryan's Stringray trip) on our own.

Hey, Dave...we are still waiting for the September newsletter. I sent you an e-mail about 10 days ago that we didn't get it. Let me know if you are having problems sending it to our e-mail address.

Take care, everyone - it won't be long now!!

:smooth:

[momof2greatgirls]

My girls are excited that they have other girls the same age just accross the hall!!
I live in Yorktown (just outside of Muncie). My sister, brother-in-law, and father who are cruising with us are also Purdue grads. I went to Purdue for two years, changed my major 8 times, then transfered and graduated from Ball State. I couldn't decide what I wanted to be when I grew up.....funny thing is I still haven't decided. :jester:

No excursions have been booked yet but thinking about the scavenger hunt in Key West.

Lisa

[LisaG520]

Hi all,
We are in cabin 6634. Also our plans for the week before have finalized - we are staying at AKL for 7 nights then the Radisson at Port the night before. I figured if we are going all the way from Barstow, CA need to put in some quality Disney time.

The only excusion we have booked so far is Xcaret Eco Park in Cozumel. DH is an archaeologist so we thought we should at least see one of the ruins. Do you think we can justify this as a business expense then? LOL

LisaG

[LisaG520]

OOPS I forgot to include we are in the late seating for dinner - by choice.

[imgoingtodisney]

Lisa - did you just join us? I dont seem to remember the name

Radisson DISmeet looks like 4, maybe 5, families so far - yahoo

[wdw1972]

I tend to read in spurts too, which may be why there aren't many posts from me.

I'll be cruising with my friend Sheila - she's come on many dvc vacations and this will be our 3rd Magic cruise together. We don't drive each other crazy spending a week together, and are independent enough to not be joined at the hip when we travel together. I'll have just turned 45 before the cruise, while she won't get there until next April. No kids - both of our sons are in high school, and that's where they'll be!

We're in cabin 2098, late dinner seating. We're not planning any excursions, but do plan to mini-golf in Cozumel and hope to attend the wine tasting DIS gathering. It'll be Sheila's 1st time at most of our ports, and my 3rd. I was just on the Wonder a week ago - and I'm ready to get back on the Magic for a longer cruise!

[dianthus]

Lisa~

Good choice for the Disney hotel- AKL. Make sure you get a Savannah Room - right of Arusha Rock. You'll see lots of Giraffes, zebras, and more... The pool there is fabulous- 11.000 sq. ft. zero depth entry - like a lake and the food is some of the best anywhere- "Jikos" will blow Palo's out of the water... and Palo's is very good. I think it is the only other 5 star restaurant Disney has besides Victoria & Albert. We stayed there opening week & received the coveted first guest pin lanyard w/ 6 pins. Walk around the hotel, they have one of the best African art collections ever assembled! Zwadi Marketplace is cool too! The entire place makes you really feel like you're in Africa. The bus service from AKL to the parks/venues is superb as well! Any questions, let me know...

I don't know which will be better, your stay at AKL or the cruise. I am truly jealous!

We'll be at the Radisson Friday night too.

~ Linda :)

[LisaG520]

Barb,

I mostly tend to lurk so only 1 post before - and I have been getting the newsletter since June I think. A little info on us - just me and DH traveling - have no kids. Currently live in Barstow, CA.
Darrell is an archaeologist and I'm currently in air quality compliance. We are both in our 30's - not much longer though. Big Disney fans! After this trip we will be AP holders on both coasts. This is our 2nd DCL cruise. Last time was Oct. 2001 on the 4-night cruise.

We are planning to stay at the Radisson also - I need to remember to call when I get a break later.


Dianthus - thanks for the info on AKL. WE have been wanting to stay there since it opened but this is the first time finances will allow it. Not sure which I'm looking forward to the most cruise or AKL....

[MouseGoofy]

In my best impersonation DOH!!!

Thanks, imgoingtodisney for answering my question and starting the new thread about ressies at the Radisson at the Port.

I must have been having a Homer Simpson moment. With all the planning I have been doing for some reason I never even thought about making reservations and being able to cancel if we are running late.:o

So now you can add us to the list of people who plan to be at the Radisson on Friday night as I just made our ressies. hopefully our travels will go well and we will be there.

John

[alisbarc]

Hello All,

Been a busy thread these past 10 days. Looks like we picked up about 15 more folks. Welcome.

Barb, we are in rooms 6016 & 6018 and have early seating.

I know this sounds like a broken record but man have I been busy.

House is in the final phases. Floors being finished today and tomorrow, concrete being poured tomorrow and Friday, appliances went in last Friday and light fixtures yesterday. If all goes according to plan we will be closing on the loan next Thursday.

Work is great but lots to do. Leave every night at 6 pm after 10 or 11 hours and it seems like my pile gets bigger each day. Can see light at the end of the tunnel though. Made the last needed personnel changes this past week and have a couple of new folks in this week. Working our way through the normal learning curve.

Gotta learn to say no. Not as young as I once was. Let myself get talked into coaching soccer at church again this fall and also agreed to be the chairperson of the annual "Wurst" cooking contest at our annual Oktobefest festival coming up October 3 & 4.

Needless to say I can hardly wait till cruise time. Really looking forward to the wine tasting and mini golf. Gonna sleep late on the days at sea and eat 2 entrees every night. May even splurge for a message one day.

ttfn
david

[sarcone]

Thank you so much for catching us up on the newsletters. They were enjoyable to read.

Again, we are the Sarcone family from Iowa. Just a little about us. We are going on our first cruise ever. Our family consists of Christine, age 13 (turning 14 on Nov. 11), Anna, age 11, Lucia, age 8, Stephen Jr., age 5 and Jessica, age 3. My mother, age 80, is also accompanying us. She is looking forward to the trip. She went on an Alaskan cruise a few years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it.

We live in Des Moines, IA. My husband spent 20 years with the Dr Pepper/7UP company before buying a DQ here in Des Moines. Got him off the road. I am a tax attorney with Wells Fargo, working in the Private Client Services area more specifically in the Minneapolis Wealth Planning Center. I telecommute and handle the planning needs of our wealthiest clients in the Midwest.

Looking forward to meeting other DIS fans. Looks like a lot of kids that mine will match up age-wise well. I know they will have a fabulous time. My children are sports nuts and are looking forward to the sports deck. We are spending one day at All-Star Sports Resort and heading to Magic Kingdom. The two older girls were there when 5 and 3; we need to get the younger ones there. Heading then to Port on Sat. morning.

Has anyone done the Western Schooner Sail? I booked for Key West mainly due to the fact all ages can participate. Other than that, DH, DD8 and DS5 will be doing the dolphin encounter. I am booking direct the dolphin swim for DD13 and DD11 in Cozumel. That's it for excursions. We plan on enjoying all that the ship has to offer!

Looking forward to meeting fellow DIS ers.

[imgoingtodisney]

For those leaving Thurs 11/6 - we are at the 50 day countdown!
:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[3MinnieMom]

To celebrate our 50-Day Countdown (we leave Wed 11/05), my family all watched the Disney Cruise Video together yesterday evening before the kids went to bed (we haven't watched it since... I don't know when!) With the kids' school and all our other activities (and, of course, Halloween preparation) in Sept and Oct, the time should go by quickly!

Dave - thanks for e-mailing us the Sept newsletter (it's great!)

Lisa (Momof2GreatGirls) - Looking forward to meeting all of your gang (hey, 2 years at Purdue still qualifies you as a Boilermaker; besides, David Letterman would be proud that you're a Ball State graduate!)

Did anyone else book Captain Bryan's in Grand Caymen for The Stingray Swim? I remember reading that several of you have booked with Captain Marvin's (we let our girls vote - they want to try the catamaran boat with Captain Bryan's).

Take care, everyone!
:wave:

[disneyeveryyear]

Hey David,


Quote from alisbarc:

May even splurge for a message one day.


If you want a message one day, I'll call you and leave one on your voice mail. :p .

Couldn't resist.


Good luck with the new house.

[acrucifer]

we are getting there, arent we?

[disney6]

Barb, we are in room 6643 (no upgrades for us I'm sure!). My parents are in 6624 (I think!)

We have late seating for dinner. Never eat dinner that late so I'm not sure how I'll like it but we're giving it a try!

Just talked to my Dad's wife and we've decided to not do any shore excursions. Not sure how my Dad is going to feel physically (he just finished 6 months of chemo) so we are just relaxing and playing it by ear/going with the flow.

Not too long now!

[alisbarc]

Hey Bev,
Thats why I am an accountant. Can't spell worth a darne.

I meant, "might even splurge for a massage". But, if funds are low, I nice message is always appreciated.

ttfn
david

[Tesabat]

Hey Barb - I just got my excursion confirmations - and it looks like we really are mid-ship - room 6078.

Things are shaping up! :)

[goofy4wdw59]

Hello All! I haven't posted much here, but, now I'm checking the cruise board more frequently...:D...that cruise is getting closer!

Our family consists of: Me-Margaret, DH-Joel, DD-Cayleigh (age 6), DS-Connor (age 4), DD-Ceara (age 1 yr). We booked early and have connecting Cat. 10 rooms 5522 & 5524 ("Secret Portholes"). We have late seating for dinner. We are not sure yet what excursions we will do?, if any. We may need to confirm babysitting at flounders first for youngest DD.
We are just finishing up some major construction work on our home that began last fall. That and getting kids ready for school, etc. the cruise is sounding better all the time!:D

[dianthus]

goofy4wdw59~

You may want to call your TA to see if you can get waitlisted for Main dining. If you don't get it beforehand, request it once you get on the ship. You'll see the dining change request location listed in your navigators. With children that young, they really need to be in the Main dining. They will really try to accommodate you. I'm surprised you didn't get it booking early & with the little ones!

~ Linda :)

[imgoingtodisney]

DISers are in at least 4 of those 6 SPRs. Wonder why?
3minniemom will be right across the hall from goofy4wdw59 - also in connecting rooms

7wks from today and we leave! Hows everyone spending their last 7wknds? Keep busy and time will fly (hopefully not onboard ship tho)

[momof2greatgirls]

We have been thinking about the scavenger hunt in Key West. On the cruise critic website it has gotten good reviews. They only run it on the weekends but will do "private parties" if there are at least 10 people in your party. I believe the cost is $20 a person and it takes about 3 hours. They also rent electric cars (like a golf cart that seats 4 people). I thought the kids might really enjoy zippin' though town in one of those. It would be a good way to see all the sights early before the sunset. Is anyone else intrested??

www.keywesthunt.com

Lisa

[imgoingtodisney]

GOOD MORNING! Hows everyone doing with Isabel?

we needed a bump to pg 1

[disneyeveryyear]

Lisa,

The scavenger hunt sounds like a lot of fun and we would have love to have joined you, but my DM will be with us and has some fairly signifcant mobility issues, so I think we will have to stick with the Trolley Tour.

Great idea and I hope you get a good turnout.

What else is going on for excursions?

Have a great weekend.

[imgoingtodisney]

woohoo been working on lowering my Cholesterol - last May it was 198 now its 166 - guess my new way of living is working
:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[Fay Ray]

The Albrecht's are doing the afternoon Western Union Schooner at KW, Captain Marvin's Stingrays at GC, Dolphin Discovery at Cozumel, and the Seahorse snorkel at CC. We'll be nice and red by the end of the week, even with number 30 sunscreen!

Isabel wimped out in Rochester. Just a little wind and rain.
We lucked out on that one!!!

Fay Ray
(Linda)

[disneyeveryyear]

Linda,

Glad to know you didn't have any serious impact from Isabel. I was worried about my east coast DIS friends.

Hope everyone else faired as well.

[acrucifer]

she fizzled out here also. some wind and rain is all. I pray for perfect weather during Our Cruise !!!! please let it be so.

[imgoingtodisney]

perfect weather on a healthy ship
Weve earned it!
7wks from today - whos ready now? me me me
(sitting here listening to Jimmy cruise to the Banana Republic)

:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[snelsonbrown]

Hello everyone,
I do not know if I just have been "out in space" but I didn't realize that this thread was on the Western cruise - Hi this is Shirley - you know the ol' conch from the once little island of Key West where women did wear sarongs with Hibicus behind their ears, congo lines and latin dancing was done down Duval Street on Saturday nights once a month or when someone just started one to begin a fun night for adults and kids - well even tho those days are gone - if you are going to be in my hometown and have any questions, I would be most happy to help any way I can - I have pamplets that I send out with just about anything you want to know about Key West - it has coupons, discounts and just what to do, where to go and to beware of the tee shirt shops especially those with the loudest music - If I can help with anything while in Key West, you are most welcomed to write me at snelsonbrown@aol.com and I would be more than glad to help.
Meanwhile have a great time getting ready for your cruise - a dream of a lifetime.
Always
Shirley
800-950-4559
PS --no there are NO STRINGS ATTACHED TO ASKING QUESTIONS OR GETTING INFORMATION ON KEY WEST OK

[imgoingtodisney]

Hi Shirley - we've been in touch a few times. Last time you suggested that you will have new stuff after Oct 1st so to wait till then to send us our envelopes.
At this time we're thinking of maybe going to the Key West Aquarium. Definately want to find Buffet's Margaritaville too.
Thanks much

[snelsonbrown]

Hi Barb - I got a few new stuff that Norm's daughter sent up to me but it isn't like going down and checking it all out which I hope will be within the next couple of weeks - Norm is back to normal THANK GOD -------anyhow Buffett's Margaritvilla is found on the corner of Duval and Flemming Street - in fact - it is what use to be the soda fountain part of S & H KRESS (5 and dime store) during my "time" - Fast Buck Freddy is on one side and Buffett's on the other side - I went into labor in 1955 sitting at what is now "buffett's Margaritvilla" (just another tidbit about Key West)
I have been in there and was stunned at how expensive they are - did it once and have not gone back in - the map I enclose with the packets are neat for it gives you an idea where things are in Key West - i try to fill in as much as I can for the cruisers - I was reading the Key West Citizen the other day and found out that the Tee Shirt shops were at it again - they charged a family from the Orients over $800.00 for tee shirts (after they left the store) - they were charged and closed up, but they mostly likely are opened again with a new name - if the music is loud and louder - STAY OUT - you know you get in there and hear the caribbean music and start buying and buying and buying to the rythem of the music and before you know it - it was an expensive dance or they add extra charges to your card - been there and had it done - now remember I DO love my hometown, BUT YOU ARE NO LONGER DEALING WITH REAL CONCHS who would give you the shirt off your back. Another tidbit - Alfred Keyee who's family has forever had a stand at the end of Whitehead Street selling shells etc. passed away last week - he played the wedding march of the conch shell when Norm and I married at the Southermost part of Key West last year - he sure will be missed tho I have no doubts the family will keep it going. They are an honest family and has many tidbits of ol' Key West.
Well I have said enough.
Have fun everyone and God Bless -
Always
Shirley

[imgoingtodisney]

thank you Shirley

Uhoh Im in trouble now - just got 2 suitcases down from upstairs - and Im going through the clothes! Not sure who's wearing what when - Hey last yr I started this at 12.5wks out - we're now down to 6.5wks!

[imgoingtodisney]

another change to the plans - we may not be leaving until 430am Fri morn instead of 530pm Thurs night - someone just offered to drive us roundtrip to TF Green airport - just not sure if 4 of us can fit in the car along with the luggage - also gotta tell them we need to leave the house at 430am Fri morn and wont get back till midnight the following Sat night

Did you realize how much more "stuff" we have to pack for a cruise instead of a WDW vaca? BIL said they just packed 2ad and 3kids (8yrs and younger) into 3 suitcases. I have lots more suitcases out than that! But they dont need to change for dinner

Next wk starts October and then we can say "we cruise next month!"
:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[dianthus]

disneyeveryyear~ thanks for your well wishes on Isabel. We were fortunate, just some wind & rain in our area. My MIL lives just north of Myrtle Beach & that area usually gets slammed & it missed her too.

Thanks Shirley for the heads up on the non conch types in KW! Sounds like it's wise to pay cash for T shirts & other goodies in Key West...

Barb~ you crack me up! you are putting enough energy into this cruise for all of us:D !! I have started the "cruise basket". I put a basket in the guest room & put stuff in it as I think about it. So far I have masks, snorkel, fins, water shoes, sunscreen, laundry travel kit & the"motionsickness kit"- bonine, dramameine & seabands. We've never needed it, but I carry it as an insurance policy...

For those of you who have not cruised on DCL before, here are a few items we bring that make life a bit easier for us~

Pack some Downy Wrinkle releaser. It will save you much time not having to use the irons in the laundry room. Takes the wrinkles out of most clothes nicely... ( pack in a zip lock bag )

Pack a stain stick, laundry detergent- i bring some tablets, dryer sheets & about $5 in quarters to do laundry on the ship. If you don't you will need to do laundry for sure... The extra dryer sheets will make your dirty laundry smell better on the way home- LOL!

We bring an extension cord for the vanity area. Helps with curling irons, etc...

Bring a hairdryer from home, unless you have really short hair. The ones in the cabin look like vacuum cleaners (really) & do not have the wattage you may be used to...

We bring 2 pieces of thick cardboard cut 12X 12. We store in the bottom of our suitcase. We put the pictures purchased on board between them. Everything arrives home safely- uncreased or rumpled. Pictures are too expensive to have them ruined!

Bring a highlighter of some sort for the navigators & a pad of post it notes. Helps to keep you organized...

$1 bills for room service tips - we keep them in a cup by the door, so they are easy to find when room service arrives.

Barb~ we pack all our formal clothes, shoes, etc.. together in one bag so it is easier to pack & you don't lose track of the normal stuff you need to bring...

These things have worked well for us on our past 2 cruises. Hopes this helps as you start to get into the packing mode in the coming weeks...

~ Linda

[Figgy77]

Hi Everyone!! Gee, I think I actually posted this in the right place this time!! Hope the cruise removes the cobweb's from my brain.
Anyway, does anyone know the times on the washer/dryers. I know I read it somewhere (those cobweb's again) this would come in handy in planning those dreaded laundry duties.
Also, in case it was missed on the "mother page," we sail on a full moon. How cool is that??
Happy cruising dreams!!! Figgy aka Diane

[Figgy77]

I found it myself in the "Passporter's Guide." Will pass this along to others. First, it costs $3.00 (est.) to wash and dry a full load of clothes. It takes 38 min. to wash and 48 minutes to get them completely dry. They suggest doing laundry in the mornings as afternoons are quite busy. Hope this helps someone else!!

[Mousearoo]

Hi all,

Just booked on the Disney Western for 11/8

First Disney Experience for my Family consisting of Myself- David, wife - Sonia, DD Eliza (5), DS Ethan (2 1/2).

We are from Sydney, Australia so I am hoping the trip half way round the world to shake the hand of Mickey Mouse is worth it.

Looking forward to meeting and making new friends and truth be known --- I cant wait to meet the man himself -- Mickey Mouse!!!

Regards
David

[imgoingtodisney]

Welcome to our group David - we're a great bunch of DISers ready to have some fun!
DH, DS11 and I have been waiting for this cruise for almost 2yrs now. We're in room 6124 with early dining.
Im assuming you have late dining? Can I ask which room?
Have you looked over your excursions yet?
We're trying to get together a group for mini-golf on Cozumel and snorkeling on Grand Cayman
Please email dwbarc@aol.com - David can get his newsletters out to you.
Looking forward to meeting you in a little over 6wks!
:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[imgoingtodisney]

ok so DS just told me to be quiet but

11/1 IS STARTING TO GET THEIR DOCS!!

WOOHOO - let the anticipation continue


:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

(guess I better go walk now)