11/01/03 Eastern Cruisers, I know you're out there!!!

[jel0511]

O.K. Let's start a thread of all of us going on the 11/1/03 Magic!! It is NJ week, so I'm wondering how many other Jerseyites will be on the ship!!! Also, non-Jerseyites are welcome as well!!! :p :p :p So don't be shy, please come out!!!

[Masonpips]

I've been debating starting this thread because I have 3 other girlfriends (and their families) coming with me and I figured that was enough to get us started! So kudos to you for stepping up to the plate!

This will be our 2nd cruise (1st Eastern) - we are Halloween cruisers from last year and had an absolute blast!

It'll be me and dh (mid/late 30's), DS (will be 6) and DD (4) on the cruise.

[jel0511]

Masonpips - Welcome!!! I forgot to say that this is also our 2nd Disney cruise, our 1st 7 day though!!! It will be Me and DH (mid 30') DD 5 and DS 2 1/2!!!!!

[debralisa]

Can't wait!!!! We are one of the '3 friends' joining Masonpips and family!

I have 4 kiddos who will be: 5 y (18 days shy of 6)DS, 4 1/2 y DD, 3 DD, and 1 y(1 month shy of 2) DS ..by the cruise date. And, of course, DH and I (mid-30's) are going.

We are also from NJ and my older DS will be starting K in the fall...so I am THRILLED to hear (and just reconfirmed on our town calendar) that it is NJ week!! WOOHOO!!

We just hated to miss the opportunity to get together with 3 other wonderful friends and their families...how often do you get a chance like that?! It will be wonderful to get to meet other people as well!

I am a cruise-a-holic, but DH has been terribly turned off by a (MY grandparents') family-anniversary trip gone wrong-LOL. So hopefully this will change his outlook. I have cruised on HA, RC, 'Big Red Boat' (before DCL) and Norwegian. LOVE LOVE LOVE HA and RC. Can't wait for the kids to experience the DCL!!

Any advice on young ones (i.e. my youngest DS) is WELL appreciated. I am just stressing about getting some nursery hours for my youngest...but even if I don't, it is a family vacation, so I will be thrilled to be going no matter how much time DH and I have 'alone'-LOL.

Thanks for letting me babble!

Debbie

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[SweetSpot]

Count us in! We rebooked for the NJ week when we were on the ship Nov 2002. We had such a great time the only way I would get off the ship is a guarantee I could get back on again next year. I can't wait!

[savsawmom]

Another friend of masonpips! This will be our very first cruise -- DH and I mid-30s, DD - 6 and DS - 3.

[Thumpersmom]

Hello everyone!

We will be the California connection for sure. We traveled on the Magic for the Western last June. This time the whole family is coming and a group of friends too!

We are Myself and DH-(both 35) DS (7)
My parents-(mid 50's)

Newbies to Disney cruising....

My father-in-law and wife (60's)
Brother, SIL( both 32) and my niece (4)
Brother and girlfriend (27 and 23)

Friends coming along for the first time....

Michelson's - DS (1)
Foss's-grandparents of the Michelson's
Herrera's- DS (turns 3 in December), DS (waiting to be born this month!)
Garcia's-grandparents of the Herrera boys plus another grandson (8)

and each week it seems more people want to come with us too!

We are so-o-o excited!

Looking forward to chatting over the next few months!

Kristina

[twhipple]

I've been waiting for someone to start a thread on this. We are doing a "make up" eastern cruise. No, not one who got cancelled. We just had some family problems and I had to leave in St. Thomas on our last cruise. It's just me (will be 35) and my DH (48). We're both fanatics!

One highlight about our last cruise was joining a group a DISers for an excursion in St. Thomas. We planned our own and had a great time. I'd love to do this again, but at St. Martin instead.

We're under 270 days now!:Pinkbounc

[Masonpips]

Since Halloween is the night before the cruise has anyone given thoughts to Trick or Treat? We'll fly in on Friday and probably stay at the Radisson (assuming they continue their great rates this year) and I was thinking we could do a (voluntary) Trick or Treating event for any of us who end up staying at the same place. We were on the Halloween cruise last year and did a DIS-TorT and the kids LOVED it. We ended up with about 15 rooms all over the ship and we wandered the halls w/clues and such. It was very fun and MUCH better than the DCL TorT which was way too crowded.

Obviously we don't have to decide now, but maybe as we get to the summer if we have a bunch of people who are coming in early we can pull something together?

BTW, the Radisson pool looks BEAUTIFUL. We did not swim last year as we got in around 7 pm and had to eat, etc. but this year we will be swimming and maybe we can have a DIS board get-together at the pool that night too?

You'll all come to know (and love?) my planning skills! LOL

[jel0511]

I wish I could fly in the day before, but with DD being in Kindergarten, I don't want her to miss her first Halloween parade. So, by the time we get home from that, we'd NEVER make a flight out of either airport near us. THe only option would be a 9:00 pm flight, and with two kids 5 and 2, not an option. So, we'll take the first flight out on Saturday. It does sound like fun!!! I hope you get a lot of others to join in, it would be fun!!!

[Thumpersmom]

We are trying to attend the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at WDW if this is available this year. We are flying in to arrive on Friday morning to get a day and night and a morning at the parks before the cruise!

Coming from CA we are trying to get the most for our $ from the flight! Most of the others traveling with us have never been to WDW so they are arriving on Wed. and we were trying to make sure our DS did not miss too much school, and figured what do they really do on Halloween?! If things change we will let you know. The Radisson is a great option and so close to the port. We rented a car from there last year-we had a late flight and were able to visit the Space Center before heading to the airport.

[twhipple]

We're flying in on Friday, but staying at the Swan or the Dolphin. I don't think they have the pre and post cruise rates this year, but they have the government rate ($129). We plan to spend the day and night at Epcot (wine and food festival). I've always wanted to go to that, but our trip has never coincided. Anyhow, no kids with us so trick or treating wouldn't really matter. Sounds great though for those of you with kids!

[Thumpersmom]

Hello to all!

I just thought I would bump us back up to the front to see if anyone else is joining us or anyone else had any news.:D


Kristina

[Masonpips]

bumping this up in hopes we attract some new folks! Saw a post from Goofysgal (or girl?) a few days ago - hope she joins this thread!

[Thumpersmom]

Hello again! We are off to visit Disneyland for Kyle's 7th Birthday today! :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :)


Hopefully, we will have some response for when we get home.

Have a magical day!!

Kristina

[jel0511]

I'm the one who started this thread, and I canceled my cruise!!! Oh well, I'll be on St. John that week, so come on over!!!! Maybe a small get together in my villa???

[Thumpersmom]

Lori:

Hope you enjoy your time on St. John!!!:D

Just back to work today after the Disneyland trip. We stayed at the Grand Californian four nights and had a perfect view of the theme park and pool. It was a grand time and we enjoyed every minute of it. Makes me want to go back soon but still counting down the days until the cruise. Walking in Disneyland always makes me in the Disney mood!!!

Kristina

[grimgrinnin]

Count me in - just booked this morning.

Now, where's my snorkel...



grim

[Thumpersmom]

I'm glad you booked, now maybe since we are bumped to the top of the board more will join us. How many in your family? First cruise?

We are actually coming to Phoenix this weekend. Hopefully, the weather will be good for us....

Kristina

[Masonpips]

Welcome grimgrinnin - tell us more about yourself and traveling companions!

We've had awesome weather the last few days - did tons of yardwork and the flowers are just coming out - the tulips are about a week away - can't wait for their show.

Hope everyone else is doing well!

[grimgrinnin]

Thumpersmom -
Just watched the weather. We're supposed to have rain this weekend. That's good for us Phoenicians!

This is our first cruise. It will be DW and I, both 32. We are CDN's (Certified Disney Nuts). I proposed to DW at the top of Splash Mountain, right before the drop (and it's been down-hill ever since *rimshot*). We honeymooned at WDW, of course.

We are sooo excited about the cruise.

:bounce:

Can't wait for the open-air cabana massage at Cataway Cay!


grim

[Thumpersmom]

It's our luck that it is going to rain-it is supposed to be around 80 degrees here at home.

We honeymooned at WDW too! We just celebrated our 10 year anniversary last June with a week stay at the Beach Club and the Western 7 day cruise. It is sooo great and you will love all of the "Magic"!

Our Splash Mtn. memory is being on the drop at midnight to welcome in 1995! It is also our son's favorite ride and it was a bummer it was closed the beg. of this month for his birthday trip! :(

I'm sure we will get in at least one more Disneyland trip before too long...:D

Kristina

[goofysgirl]

Okay here we are....me, DH, and the three princesses, 15,12,and 8. This is our fourth cruise, 2 4-days and the Magic last year. Twhipple I think we were on the same cruise as you last year on the Magic.
Alas we are not from NJ but are your neighbors in Connecticut. After this winter i am looking forward to the sun. It is finally crawling into the 50's here, so we don't have much to be joyous about. But then again it is not snowing...........
We surprised the girls this Christmas with a return cruise. I cut paper plates and made a puzzle telling them when we were going and to Castaway Cay. it was a riot watching them piece it all together. Needless to say there was a lot of screaming going on in my house that day!!
Looking forward to seeing all of you, we are sneaking in a trip to the World in June so we will have a litlle Disney fix before the cruise...Can't wait!
:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:

[Thumpersmom]

Hello to all again. I have not been on the DIS in awhile so thought I would check in and we are quite a few pages back.

Just wanted to see how everyone was doing and if we have any new families who are going to cruise with us.

Have a good weekend everyone!:D

[goofysgirl]

What did I say about it not snowing? We are expecting 5-10inches today. This cruise can not come soon enough! Anyone new joining us? I hope we are not on a ghost ship! Looking forward to meeting up with everyone!
Cindy
:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:

[Thumpersmom]

btt

[lruggiero]

Hello Everyone!

Thankfully there are some people on this cruise. I agree, maybe it is a ghost ship.

Goofysgirl-

Thank God you have teenage girls. I am bringing my nieces who will be 16 and 14 by the time we cruise and I am stressing that there will be no other teens on the boat.

It is me (Lori) my husband John, 4 year old son Vincent and my 2 nieces Alyssa and Natalie and my mom.
We all definitely need a vacation and since I was one of the cancelled 11/30 cruisers, I can't wait to get on.

Yes we are from Jersey that's why we picked this week because of school.

Talk to you Soon,
Lori

[Masonpips]

bumpity, bump, bump, bump....

anyone new? We're getting close to the 6 month mark - time should start flying soon right? Of course, we have the long hot summer to plan, dream, buy discount summer clothing at the end of the season, sunscreen, water toys and more too!

[goofysgirl]

Yea!!! Someone else will be there to share the Magic with. We are sooooo looking forward to this cruise as my girls are in track and I am running somewhere at least two to three times a day. We will have that little week in WDW in June, but I just seem to need that cruise to bring me back to the world of the living.

Lori,
do your nieces have e-mail that they might want to hook up with my girls prior to the cruise? This is the first time they will both be in Common Grounds so it should be interesting.
PM if you like or you can e-mail me at leec@dnb.com.

Can't wait to meet everyone!!!
Cindy

[Thumpersmom]

Hello everyone. It is great to have someone bump us up to the top to see if anyone else will be joining us.

We just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Easter and fun spring break. We will be having a mini cruise meeting at Easter because most of our group will be there. We were just talking about how it is now less then 200 days to go!:D

Kristina, Clark & Kyle

[lruggiero]

Cindy-

I think that's a nice idea for the girls to chat beforehand. Alyssa who is 15 is on the track team too. I went on AOL to check to make sure I had the right screen names and I am now sitting here at 1:15am crying. I guess we all have a story...

My sister passed away 6 months ago from cancer and I know it's really hard on the girls but reading the profile just says so much.

Anyway,
now you have background on them and new "friends" might be nice.

Alyssa is in the 10th grade and her screen name is ditzyqt12 and Natalie is in the 8th grade and her screen name is qtnat501 both on AOL.


Happy Easter to all....maybe this bump can pick us up some new friends//

Lori

[Masonpips]

6 months! 6 months! 6 months!

We booked at exactly a year out, so we're 1/2 way there!

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

[esietz]

New to these boards. We too are going on the Disney Eastern Carribean Cruise 11/1/03. It will be our first cruise. We are also from New Jersey. It will be me (Ephie) and hubby (Steve) both mid 30's. Sons Nathaniel (10 yrs. by cruise date) and Jonah (18 days shy of 7 yrs. by cruise date). The cruise sounds like so much fun. We can't wait!

[grimgrinnin]

Hello November Firsters!

Anyone know which excursions they're booking?

I'm thinking about trying either the St Martin OR St Thomas Kayaking trips. Anyone have any info besides what's in the Passporter?


grim

[Thumpersmom]

Hello everyone! Nice to see we have had some movement on the thread!!

Welcome Ephie and family. We have two boys in the age range of your kids. Brandon will be 8 in July and my DS Kyle turned 7 in March. Kyle loved the club before and can't wait to get back on board! He talks about it all the time. :D

Grim grinnin-have you done a thread on the kayaking trip to see if anyone else is going-last year we went Western and were not able to book the Sting Ray city at Grand Cayman through the board we found Capt. Marvins and it was perfect! I know my DH will be scuba diving at each port and will be doing that so I haven't looking into any other water excursions.

How is everyone else doing?

Kristina

[Masonpips]

Hi all!

We have just begun to discuss excursions, not sure what we want to do. We are cruising with other families this time so we need to see if we want to to do a family excursion or consider an adults only or one of each (my vote). We did that last year, dh and I did Key West while the kids stayed in the club and then we all did Cayman. None of us left the boat in Cozumel - we had both been there before and preferred having the empty ship to hang out on!

Last year we booked in late June/early July so I'm excited that we're getting close to that - 4 months seems to go by VERY quickly, especially once you start shopping for the right things to wear!

Any other Nov 1sters around????

[Thumpersmom]

Yah! Activity on our thread!!!

We also have started to discuss excursions. My DH will be scuba diving on St. Thomas, we went there a couple of years ago and he enjoyed it greatly. I enjoyed the shopping!!! I'm sure he will try to dive in St. Maarten too!

I have been reading the Eastern trip reports to see what everyone is recommending and they seem to go out on their own to tour the island or have a beach day. With our large group and no one having visited the Carribbean before it might just be a hey that sounds fun so let's go. I will do the beach thing on Castaway Cay and it is soo beautiful there you can't beat it probably spend time on the islands checking out the sights and shopping. My DS went with us on some last year and others he stayed in the Club. With someone else his age this time, he will probably never want to come out of the club.

I have started a newsletter for our group and I am getting ready to do newsletter number 2!!! I am including the thread here so let's see if anyone checks in.

Is anyone else out there????

Kristina

[dis4me]

Hi All We just booked our 4th DCL cruise for 11/1 somewhat reluctantly. We have done the Eastern 2x and Western 1x and we were hoping to try something different "NJ Week". However every ship I looked at just didn't compare with the size of the rooms. We are waitlisted for a cat 4 so this must be quite a full ship. We are also waitlisted for 1st seating which I am praying for.
We are me and dh (30 somethings) dd 8 dd 7 and ds 1.
I can't wait to get on the ship and try some new things.
Nice to meet all of you.

[Thumpersmom]

Hello everyone! I just thought I would bump us up to the top and see if anyone else is joining us.

Welcome dis4me and family!:D

[Thumpersmom]

btt

[dis4me]

Thanks Thumpersmom

[debralisa]

Just picked up my wedding dress and the girls dresses for the cruise (DH and I are renewing our wedding vows on the ship). So I guess this makes it all more 'real' to me that the cruise is coming up! The kids are soooo excited too and I think everyone in their entire school knows we are going on the Mickey ship AND my older two (5 1/2y and 4 y) have tried to invite everyone to come with us-LOL.

Debbie

[dis4me]

Debralisa How exciting!! We are married 10 years this year and thought about doing the same thing. We celebrated one anniversary on DCL and the kids were so excited that we got a cake.Congrats.

[Masonpips]

Debbie - no fair, you *must* post a pic of your dress!

It's gorgeous and we want everyone on the cruise to recognize you immediately Thursday night (night of renewal right?) when you hit Palo's for that "honeymoon" dinner ~wink~

Post it!

[debralisa]

On Nov. 6, 2003, DH and I will be 13 years and one month married (but known each other/dated on and off for 18 1/2 years). Here is the wedding dress and bridesmaid/flower girl dress for my girls (in ivory): http://www1.davidsbridal.com/bridalgowns_detail.jsp?stid=345&prodgroup=52

and the boys/DH will be wearing 5 pc tuxedos (white shirt, black paisley vest, bow tie pants and jacket).

I also got the girls inexpensive flower girls baskets with silk rose petals from Michael's (since any real flowers cannot be brought back into the US..and I will want a few for a scrapbook) and the boys will have silk roses for boutenniers (less chance for a 2 year old to destroy it..LOL).

Can't wait to hit the islands, the beaches, and the fun!!!

Debbie

P.S. Dis4me....are you in N. Jersey?? Anywhere near Morristown or Somerville??

[Thumpersmom]

Debbie-The dresses are so pretty. We will keep an eye out for you on Thursday to sneak a peek!

We thought about the vow renewal on our trip last June-it was to celebrate our 10 year anniversary but will wait until 15 years I guess?! It is wonderful for the kids too!! They will be so excited. My DS Kyle always asks why he wasn't invited to our wedding. :D


Kristina

[dis4me]

Hi Debralisa Beautiful dresses!! We are in Monmouth County. Dh works in Raritan though. Is that where you are?

[debralisa]

Kristina...that is too cute about Kyle :-)! We had planned on waiting until our 15 year anniversary as well...but I am just not a patient person-LOL.

Dis4me...We are in Somerset County so we are nearby where your DH works. Cool!!

[Masonpips]

Hey - who all booked through DU? I checked yesterday and we were up to 7 folks - just one more booking in the next few months and we get a special gift! It was a nice petit four tray last year - complete will chocolate Mickey and a bottle of sparkling cider.

Here's hoping we get one more family added!

[Thumpersmom]

Hello everyone.Just thought I would check in to see how everyone is doing and if summer is started in your part of the country. We are having 100 plus temps for the next few days so we will try to stay cool.

We just booked a trip to Disneyland for August 7th which is pretty close to our 90 days before the cruise so we will be very excited. Probably pick up some clothes to look our Disney best for the cruise! It is also the last weekend for the X-Games at CA Adventure so it will be something new to take a look at. My parents just booked a weeklong stay at the Poly for the week before the cruise-too bad Kyle can not miss more school or we would be joining them!

Hope all is well with everyone and welcome to any new cruisers!

Kristina

[Masonpips]

Hi All!

Well, we didn't book WDW, but got caught up in the excitement of the Christmas cruise and booked New Year's 2004 (oh my, that is so far away!). We decided a 2nd Western (with our good friends) over New Year's and having the kids only miss 2 days of school over the holidays AND a Secret Porthole Room were too much to pass up.

One year ago today I booked my first Disney cruise and now one year later I have my 3rd booked. It *is* addictive!

We've also had summer all week here, but a nice storm just went through the high tomorrow is only 81 and a low of 55, nearly feels like fall!

[lruggiero]

IS anyone having trouble getting a good fare from nj to orlando?
I am leaving on halloween and it seems that all the flights are so ridiculously overpriced for florida

[dis4me]

The flights are terrible. I tried Continental's ONE DAY FARE (LOL) SALE for the 5 of us it was $4598. OK What kind of sale is that. THe cheapest I have found is 1200 which I am still not willing to pay. I am thinking about driving if it doesn't get better. I can't justify spending that much for flights. 2 years ago we booked in August though and got great rates so hang tight.
Are you flying out of Newark????

[dis4me]

Masonpips we are DU too. We need one more. Wehad eight on our cruise last year. Last minute 3 people transferred. Anyone interested in transferring for a free gift LOL:p

[lruggiero]

dis4me-

I was flying out of Newark but since there are 6 of us I started to get concerned. I am not willing to stop since my son is only 4 and I am lucky if he sits still for just the one trip. I kept looking at Continental and the cheapest non-stop I could get was 845 pp...no way. I finally called and they told me it was considered almost like a "blackout"week. I definitely think they are trying to take advantage of the teachers convention thing.

Anyway, I decided to fly out of Laguardia. I was very limited on choices becuase I wanted to fly out late Fri afternonn, becaise if the kids go to school until noon, they are not charged with an absence and then after the ship we are going to Universal and I want to take full advantage of the 2 day pass so we want to stay for most of the day on sunday so I wanted to book a late flight out.

I wound up going with Delta's new Airline Song and it is costing 215pp but it is non stop and the flights are good for us. When I booked the flight the other day and I was choosing seats..the return flight had nothing but scattered seats and exit rows left so I'm glad I did it when I did.

Good Luck

Lori

[SweetSpot]

We are in South NJ a family of 5 and we drive. I'd rather take the time to drive than to waste the money on a flight. Whatever I save I can put toward next years cruise. (Good excuse too because I hate to fly) It really isn't a bad drive (from here at least). Start around 3:00AM and there by 6PM. The kids watched Disney movies the whole way.

Flights out of Atlantic City tend to be more reasonable. They don't tend to hike the prices down here for teachers convention week. If it's not too far a drive you might want to check it out.

[Masonpips]

Hello! HEL-LLLLOOOOOOOO

Anyone out there? Anyone new?

Are we ready for the double-digit dance? Soon my pretties, soon....

[goofysgirl]

Well, I'm glad someone else is still going with us. Checking the DCL reservation board I see that all categories are still available from 4 down. Makes you wonder how full the ship will be. Just back frim the House of Mouse...it was hot! So we are set with our Disney fix until the Magic begins!



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

[twhipple]

My mom is retiring this year so my sister and I are taking her on a cruise. Could not convince my sis to do DCL so we'll be on RCL two weeks before this one!

I'll get to see Wonder in person from RCL, wishing I was on Wonder instead:( , all the time knowing in two weeks I'll be back for our Magic-al cruise:Pinkbounc

Packing for two trips is going to be a challenge (I'm super organized - ok, obsessive!!)

Is anyone considering going to Anguilla on the St. Marten day? Last year we did a group snorkel trip (with all DISBOARD people) in St. Thomas and had a blast!

[Thumpersmom]

Hello everyone! Just thought I would check in. We are now starting to book some airfare and I am the only holdout in the family. I want to red-eye on Thursday night to be able to do work and school before we go. The price has not dropped but the rest of the family, who are all going to miss a whole day traveling got a great roundtrip for $225 each!!! Not bad, we are paying $130 to go to Disneyland next month which is just a six hour drive from us, so an extra $100 bucks for across the country is pretty good!!! :D
Hopefully, I will not kick myself for not taking this!

We are still very excited and have started to put away a few new summer clothes as cruise wear!!

twhipple-we are jealous of your two cruises! I think my DS and my mom would live on cruise ships they love it so much!

We are thinking of doing the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween party on Friday night. Has anyone attended before? We will be staying at the Poly for this one night and maybe can go to another park for the day. Still have to decide where to stay for one night afterwards.

Thanks! Kristina

[Masonpips]

Who is ready for a double-digit dance this week? We booked at a year out - I can't believe we're nearly down to 99 days!

WOOO HOOOO

How hot is it where you are?

It was 106 here yesterday at 4 o'clock. By 7 pm it dropped to 103. At 10:30 it was 86 and we were laughing at how it was 20 degrees cooler than that afternoon, funny how much 20 degrees can be!

[dis4me]

Today was gorgeous 83 degrees and sunny. I hope this weather stays.I do not miss last years heat wave. We were in DL and Los Angeles 2 weeks ago and it was HOT. Luckily there was no humidity.Here we have that horrible humid( hairdo destroying) summers.

[Thumpersmom]

Yep, it is hot here too. We also had a touch of rain Sat. night and it was up in the 90's and humid. Not usual for us but made me think of Florida!

We can hardly believe it is almost less then 100 days to go. It has gone by quickly so the next 100 will be a breeze. Just what we need on these hot days.

We went shopping this week and I am surprised at the number of sales on summer stuff. Fall and school stuff is out here. We put a few items away to have some special "cruise" clothes!

Hope everyone stays cool and checks in to do the 99 day and counting dance!

Kristina

[Thumpersmom]

Where is everyone??? It is the 99 days and counting dance time!:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[Masonpips]

sorry, I've been out dancing around! LOL

It seems so real now doesn't it???

I CAN'T WAIT

[goofysgirl]

Yes, I have been dancing also....got promoted and need to work longer hours for right now until new leader and I are on the same page. Hubby just switched from days to 2nd shift for right now, as he is training someone new. My girls are just beside themselves not having us around as usual, so we came up with the countdown calendar that allows them to put a Mickey icon on each day as it passes. This up coming cruise is getting us through this, and the reason we are working so hard. We can not wait to hear that horn blast!!! It won't come soon enough for us!:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:

[grimgrinnin]

Woohoo! 99 Days!

:bounce: :smooth: :Pinkbounc

[lruggiero]

I'm right there with you guys. I went to Kohl's last nite and picked up a few "sale" items, not gonna wear them and just pack them away for all of us so they stay decent. I definitely am gonna try not to overpack since last time we didn't wear half the stuff I brought and it's so difficult dragging that luggage around.


Lori

[goofysgirl]

Lori,
I know what you mean by overpacking. I know now not to bring tropical clothes, since we have plenty to choose from in St Martin and St Thomas. I know not to bring those really dressy shoes, since I forget them last time and ended up wearing dressy flip flops and was more comfortable and they went just fine under my long gown. Just a note, are your nieces still coming with you. Kayte had tried to im them a few times and hasn't been able to reach them. Let me know as the girls would love to try and make friends before they get on board.
Cindy

[grimgrinnin]

Speaking of overpacking -

I'm bringing a suit, a tuxedo I just bought from ebay (oh how I love ebay), 2 pairs of snorkel gear and 3 pairs of shoes, on top of all the usual stuff - AND I'm sure my wife will pack for a 3-week trip. Hmmm, I wonder if I could find a good deal on luggage on ebay...



grim

[Thumpersmom]

Grim Grinnin-LOL I know how you feel. We were just discussing the overpacking and how to not take the Scuba gear with us but I lost on that issue. Scuba and snorkeling are going in the bag!

I wish the ship would let us send packages of merchandise home like the park does. Last year we spent a week at WDW before the cruise and when I returned to work I had WDW all over again with all of the boxes that had arrived!!! Only bad thing is you find out how much stuff you truly bought!:D

Goofys girl- Congrats on the job promotion! Working hard and counting down the days towards the next Disney experience always seems to help us.

Hope everyone has a great weekend and continues with the dance!:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

Kristina

[dis4me]

WOW Double digits Dance Away:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc
I can't wait. I know this may have been asked already but is anyone planning an excursion to Anguilla with kids?
My dds 8 and 7 are so excited.
Is anyone going to the parks before the cruise?

[twhipple]

We're thinking of an excursion to Anguilla but no kids here. Is there a DCL excursion or are you doing it on your own?

[dis4me]

I don't think there is a DCL excursion YET(HINT HINT Dcl if you are reading this). I am thinking of doing it on my own. This is our 4th DCL cruise and 3rd Eastern so I would like to do something different.Just not sure how my 18 month old will be and I hate to be that far from the boat if he reacts poorly.

[goofysgirl]

Does anyone have info on an excursion to Anguilla? We might like to try something different also.:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:

[twhipple]

Last year we got a bunch of DISers together for a snorkeling trip in St. Thomas. We could look to do something similar in St. Martin to Anguilla. Who would want to go and #s? I'll be happy to check out some excursions. I heard we could take a water taxi to the French side then take the ship to Anguilla. Saw the ships last year and it looks pretty straight forward (like going to St. Johns I imagine). Otherwise could take a taxi but that will take a while early in the day. We've got a long day in St. Martin so we should be able to work it out. :p

[dis4me]

I wouls be interested in getting the info but wouldn't be able to make a commitment until it was closer. I worry about the baby on a trip like this. We did St John prebaby.
We have 5 of us me dh and 2dds 7and 8 and ds 18 mos.I'd love to hear anything you find out.

[Thumpersmom]

Hello everyone! The weeks are going by quickly now. We are having a cruise BBQ tomorrow for everyone going on the cruise.

Our travel agent will be attending and bringing the final balances owing on trip. We are also having a scuba instructor come to tell everyone how to get certified. I have some games and handouts planned for everyone and it should be a ton of fun! We even found a pinata in the shape of a cruise ship and changed the colors to black, red and yellow!:D

After this weekend we will have a better idea of what everyone wants to do on the ship to plan out excursions etc.

Hope everyone has a sunny weekend!

Kristina

[dis4me]

Have a great BBQ.It sounds like lots of fun. Can we come? LOL

[Thumpersmom]

Sure if you are in the area just drop by!:D :)
The more the merrier!

[lruggiero]

Cindy-

Sorry about the IM's to the girls. They changed from AOL to something else about 5 months ago and they have new screen names which I don't know but will definitely get. I think it would be great for them to hook up prior to going. I'm sure they'll have lots of fun. Are you staying anywhere the night before or are you coming in Saturday Morning? We're staying at the Radisson, I feel bad that my 4yo son has to miss Halloween but I guess he'll live. I'm a little concerned about staying there though, did anyone read that past about that hotel? Didn't sound so great!!

Lori

[Masonpips]

Lori,

Our plans are to stay at the Radisson too, we stayed there last Oct and had no issues. I think we'll get there early enough on Friday to request a different room if we're not happy with the way ours looks.

We will have our 6 yr old DS, 4 yr old DD and our friends have a 6 yr old DD and a 3 yr old DS. We're going to let them dress up and hope we can either find something in Port Canaveral (sometimes shopping centers will do trick or treat activities) or just throw a party by the pool - you are more than welcome to join in with us!

Debby

[lruggiero]

Debby-

Thanks for the invite but our plane doesn't get in until 8:30

I'm just gonna let him wear the costume on the plane. Hope he's happy with that....



Cindy-

I have the names...Alyssa is now just turned 16 and she can be sent an IM to QtLyssy509.
Natalie is now just turned 14 and she can be sent an IM to NiButtercup....let me know how it goes

Talk to everyone soon

Lori

[goofysgirl]

Lori,
Thanks I will give my girls the IM's when I get home from work. We will be staying at Old Key West for 2 nights prior to the cruise. I found a great cheap flight out of Hartford at 8:30pm Thursday night that I couldn't resist. So we may try and do Mickey's not so scary Halloween party. Bring your 4-yr old some candy, I bet he'll be happy just getting dressed up! I'll let you know what happens with the girls.
Cindy

[dis4me]

Hey NJ/NY people Has anyone ever flown out of Laguardia or know where it is located. I can get $140 trip from there to Orlando but from Newark they are not direct and are 450. I have vouchers for AA that I would like to use but the rate is not cooperating.

[lruggiero]

Dis4Me-

We are flying out of Laguardia but how are you getting $140 flights and with whom? We are flying on Delta Song and paying $215

As to how to get ther...we are taking a limo. There are 6 of us and it just makes more sense to take one of the passenger vans with all the luggage.


Cindy-
Thanks, I already told my nieces so they hope to hear from your girls soon



Lori

[dis4me]

Lori That is just for one way. My dh is going to drive so we have the car in Fl but since we had $80 each in vouchers from a price drop on American we thought we would fly one way. I also found one way $65 tickets but only going there not back. I would prefer fly home. the ride there seems to go quicker because we are all excited to go. The way home is a drag.LOL
We are in Central Jersey so I assume Laguardia is far. I didn't even know what part of the city it is in.We always fly out of Newark and take a van.
I have been trying to find flights under $200 and it is virtually impossible.

[Masonpips]

I couldn't find anything less than $200 here (actually $279+) even by considering DFW, OKC and Wichita. I ended up booking using miles on American.

Just confirmed them tonight and have my e-ticket information! One more step towards the cruise! WOO HOO We're flying in on Thursday (10/30), staying with our friends in Tampa that night, all of us will drive to Pt C. on Friday. We're heading back on Monday after the cruise allowing us to have one full day at the park and a day at one of the resort pools to relax!

[goofysgirl]

NY and NJ residents...does Southwest fly from Newark and LaGuardia? I booked from Hartford CT roundtrip on them for $170. This will be our fourth time flying them. Used to use Delta Express I think they are the new Song...but they changed their flight times too much and I found SW to be cheaper. Happy hunting, this is just about the time that the airlines should start scrambling for your business. Can't wait to meet you all!
Cindy
:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:

[CRenze]

Whew! Boy am I glad I found this thread. I was starting to worry that I picked the wrong time to take a crusise. I am sooo excited and can hardly wait! 88 more days (86 if you don't count today or departure day). It would be really nice to get to meet all of you nice, helpful people.

Cindy
:wave:

[goofysgirl]

Hey Cindy Welcome!!!! Okay give us all the particulars who is traveling with you? We have DH myself and the three princesses 15,13,8. This is our fourth cruise but first in November. We have had some health issues with Grandma this year and new job bumps in the road, so this cruise is very exciting for us! Can't wait to be on the ship with the horn blaring always makes me cry and the girls get a good laugh at their sappy MOM! Let's get out and do the Happy dance.....:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:

[CRenze]

Details, details....
I am going on my very first ever cruise and the best part is..IT'S A DISNEY CRUISE!! Actually it's everyone's first cruise. I will be traveling with my sister-in-law (SIL..I think is the board lingo) and 2 DN (10 & 12). It's a surprise for the nephews. They think we are going to Michigan to go snowmobiling..this is going to blow their minds! I can't wait to see the look on their faces!

Cindy
:wave:

[dis4me]

Hi Cindy welcome. Do you have children?Is this your first cruise?

[dis4me]

Ok we posted at the same time. We have 2 dd 8 and about to turn 8 and a ds 18mos. thisis our 4th DCL cruise 3rd time on the western. Any questions ask away

[dis4me]

Lori
is your 8 year old princess planning on going to the clubs.I hope the girls can meet up there.Are you doing Disney on Halloween.We haven't fidured out how we are getting there yet but I promised the girls we would do something special for Halloween since they are missing it at school. Last year we left on the first so we came home to a houseful of trick or treat candy.

[Masonpips]

Hi everyone. In the interest of seeing who's on our cruise, I went through the pages and put together the following list - did I miss anyone? Or mess up your names/ages, kids? LOL

Is there anyone else out there? How does everyone feel about a DIS-board meet at the sailaway party (or some other time)? Are you going to wear the lime green ribbons or mickey stickers? We could do a Secret Deck 7 party like I've seen mentioned too.

The un-official Nov 1 cruise list:

jel0511 - Lori, DH (mid-30's), DD (5), DS (2.5)
masonpips - Debby, dh (37), DS (6), DD (4)
debralisa - Debbie, dh (mid-30's), DS1 (6), DD1 (4), DD2 (3), DS2 (~2)
sweetspot, DH (30's) and DS13, DS11 and DD8
savsawmom - Theresa, dh (mid-30's), DD (6), DS (3)
Thumpersmom - Myself, DH (35), DS (7)
+ My parents-(mid 50's)
+ FIL and wife (60's)
+ Brother, SIL( both 32) and my niece (4)
+ Brother and girlfriend (27 and 23)
+ Michelson's - DS (1) (friends)
+ Foss's-grandparents of the Michelson's
+ Herrera's- DS (turns 3 in December), DS (waiting to be born this month!)
+ Garcia's-grandparents of the Herrera boys plus another grandson (8)
twhipple (35) and dh (48)
grimgrinnin, dw (32)
goofysgirl, dh, DD1 (15), DD2 (12), DD3 (8)
lruggiero, dh, DS (4), mom, DNiece1 (16), DNiece2 (14)
esietz (Ephie), dh (Steve) (mid 30's) DS1 Nathaniel (10), DS2 Jonah (almost 7)
dis4me, dh (30 somethings) DD1 (8), DD2 (7), DS (1)
CRenze, SIL, DNephew1 (12), DNephew2 (10)

[dis4me]

I would like to do a dismeet. 4 th timeis a charm.We haven't made it to the others. DH isn't to happy with me always meeting people but too bad. Deck 7 would be easier to find everyone,then go up to the party or even deck 7 later in the night after sailaway.
We have late seating but are hoping for early so we have plenty of time. Is everyone else early seating.
BTWMasonpips Great List Thanks for taking the time to do that.
Toni

[twhipple]

Masonpips, thanks for the complement, but I don't want you guys thinking my dh is more of a craddle robber than he is. I'll be 35, not 25, at the time we cruise (It's birthday month now!).

I looked into Anguilla a bit. This is really hard to find the information I'm looking for. What I came up with is Disney has a dolphin swim on Anguilla for $180. This includes lunch and transportation. It sounds like a decent price. On our own, the dolphin swim would be $125, plus transportation. The ferry is $10 each way, plus $2 tax, but a little less for round trip. The taxi if I remember right for two was $14 from Phillipsburg to Marigot. Shoretrips has a beach day and lunch for $83.00 (plus $4 tax) which includes transportation. They do not offer the dolphin swim on Tuesdays. DH is leaning towards doing the dolphin swim. We did it at Discovery Cove and he'd like to do it again but in warmer water :p

I'm in favor of a DIS meet on Deck 7 - that's where we're staying. DH thought it was kinda wierd last time, but we actually got to know the DISers during events on-board which made it nice for him when I left in St. Thomas. We have late dining (no kids) so anytime after sailaway is fine with us!

[SweetSpot]

Thanks for the list. I'm not travelling alone though, myself and DH (30's) and DS13, DS11 and DD8 will all be onboard for our second cruise.

twhipple:

Is there a Dolphin Swim available on the Eastern cruise? We really wanted to do the swim but had to go Eastern this year and last because of the timing on NJ Convention week. I have to start thinking about excursions. The cruise will be here before we know it.

Last year we tried a DIS meet right after the safety drill at Scoops and only one other family showed up. I think everyone is too excited to remember they are suppose to be somewhere that early in the cruise but I think a later meet in a quieter place like Deck 7 would be great.

[Masonpips]

made the changes, sorry about that twhipple (but I am lol-ing too - I think we would have been running to meet you!)

Anyone else?

[twhipple]

Sweetspot - there is a dolphin swim excursion on the Eastern. It's in Anguilla. It is something you can do on your own too. I do want to go to Anguilla and the dolphin swim sounds like fun, but I'm not sure if I want to go with DCL and be stuck with a set time. If enough of us wanted to go, we could share a taxi (they are actually small vans) or split the cost of a car for the day. If some wanted to just do shopping or the beaches and some wanted to do the Dolphin Swim, we could still share transportation until we got to Anguilla. We could all meet later in the day to go back. I wouldn't mind seeing other sites in St. Martin (other than just between Phillipsburg and Marigot in a bus (I would not recommend trying this. It was a cheap way to go, but not fun at all!).

Last year we did a DIS meet on Sunday during lunch. Half of the DISers had lunch together, the other half just stopped in to say hi. Goofysgirl, did you come by and join us or were you just on the same cruise? I do think that Saturday after we leave is more fun. We could order a few cheese and cracker trays from Room Service (if we can get it that soon after departure), BYO drink (I'll have my Asti!). I heard that Room Service will deliver to the secret deck on 7 if you just tell them.

[goofysgirl]

We were one of those people who forgot where and when to meet on the last cruise. I am terrible after a few minutes on vacation I forget my own name! This time I will write down when and where:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:

[Thumpersmom]

Wow! I haven't checked the boards in a few days. You guys have been busy. We had our pre-cruise BBQ Saturday and it was a ton of fun!! Our travel agent and the Disney Cruise Rep. gave a ton of prizes and I passed out Mickey Money for different things and then we had an auction of prizes. We also had a scuba guy come and five of our cruisers had their first lesson. It was great to talk about the cruise and everyone is sooo excited and ready to go. All but one couple have their airfare (some as low as $130 roundtrip!!) and everyone is booked into before and/or after cruise stays at WDW. :D

Masonpips- Thanks for doing a list! We do have a change to make on our cruisers. My FIL/wife backed out but another couple-friends of my middle brother took their cabin. They are mid 30's no kids. The herrera's second son was born in Feb.

We are up for a meet just tell us when and where. :cool:

Kristina

[Masonpips]

The un-official Nov 1 cruise list:

jel0511 - Lori, DH (mid-30's), DD (5), DS (2.5)
masonpips - Debby, dh (37), DS (6), DD (4)
debralisa - Debbie, dh (mid-30's), DS1 (6), DD1 (4), DD2 (3), DS2 (~2)
sweetspot, DH (30's) and DS13, DS11 and DD8
savsawmom - Theresa, dh (mid-30's), DD (6), DS (3)
Thumpersmom - Myself, DH (35), DS (7)
+ My parents-(mid 50's)
+ Friends (30's)
+ Brother, SIL( both 32) and my niece (4)
+ Brother and girlfriend (27 and 23)
+ Michelson's - DS (1) (friends)
+ Foss's-grandparents of the Michelson's
+ Herrera's- DS1 (turns 3 in December), DS2 (9 mos)
+ Garcia's-grandparents of the Herrera boys plus another grandson (8)
twhipple (35) and dh (48)
grimgrinnin, dw (32)
goofysgirl, dh, DD1 (15), DD2 (12), DD3 (8)
lruggiero, dh, DS (4), mom, DNiece1 (16), DNiece2 (14)
esietz (Ephie), dh (Steve) (mid 30's) DS1 Nathaniel (10), DS2 Jonah (almost 7)
dis4me, dh (30 somethings) DD1 (8), DD2 (7), DS (1)
CRenze, SIL, DNephew1 (12), DNephew2 (10)

[SweetSpot]

twhipple:

Thank you for the information on the Dolphin Swim. I hadn't looked over the excursions yet for this year and hadn't realized that they had added new ones since last year. The DCL excursion seems really long at 7.5 hours and from the map I looked at it seems like a good distance to travel. I'm not sure I could get everyone to agree on going.


Masonpips:

Thank you for updating the list. Hopefully we will be adding more as the date comes closer.

[CRenze]

THANKS for the list. It will be helpful. I'll print it when we get closer and give it to the kids (and keep a copy for myself of course).
I think the meet would be great. A perfect opportunity to put a face to a dis name. Just make sure to let us know a definate when and where.
I CAN'T WAIT!
:wave:

[strasfamily]

This is my first time posting, so I hope I am doing it right!

I just booked me and hubby (both 37) and my daugher (5) for the 11//1/03 cruise! I am so excited! We will be coming from Phoenix and staying at the Radisson the night before.

Question - what will the weather be like at that time of year?

[SweetSpot]

It's so good to have you along strasfamily! It's going to be a great time.

We were on the Nov. 2nd Eastern last year and rebooked for this year same week (NJ schools are off that week. It will become very obvious as you hear many passengers announced are from NJ) because I wasn't getting off the ship until I was sure I was getting back on. The weather was absolutely beautiful last year. It was still short weather in FL and very warm beach weather the entire time on the ship and at all the ports. Plan on living in shorts and bathing suits. We were also very lucky and didn't see a drop of rain the entire week. Lets hope we are all as lucky this time around.

[Thumpersmom]

Welcome to our new cruisers strasfamily!!!!:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:


We are leaving this afternoon for a trip to Disneyland! My mom and DS went yesterday and are having a blast! We are staying at The Disneyland Hotel and will take advantge of the great weather and spend some time in the Neverland Pool. Also going to check out the X-games at DCA, it is the last weekend for this. We will be there until Monday night and plan to get our fill until the cruise. We will check in when we get back!

Now I am off to work and counting the hours down until 3 pm!:cool:

Kristina

[twhipple]

I actually love Disneyland more than I love Disney World (only been on DCL once so I can't put that one on top - yet!). Have a glass of wine for me at the vineyard in DCA!

My husband is leaning towards doing the Dolphin Swim excursion with DCL. Unless anyone else is interested in getting something together for Anguilla and can help me convince him, I may have no choice.

Tracy

[grimgrinnin]

Hi strasfamily,

We are also from Phoenix, and will be staying at the Radisson on 10/31 too!

We'll probably take the non-stop Southwest flight Friday night.


Can't wait!


grim

[strasfamily]

Hi Grim!

Do you have kids as well? We have a daughter who is 5. We booked a non-stop as well but on America West. I am still trying to figure out transportation - I think I will check into renting a car.

I was going over the previous posts and there was talk about trick or treating at the Radisson. Is that still happening? When I booked the cruise - I totally spaced out about Halloween, and feel really bad that my daughter is going to miss it. But then I think, we are going on a Disney Cruise! That is much better!

Question - when I booked my cruise, I told my travel agent that we wanted early seating. Does this mean they just note it, or can we actually get it? He didn't say anything, but then I read on a previous post that someone was waitlisted for the early seating. I would think my TA would have said something if it wasn't available.

[lruggiero]

Welcome StrasFamily

We have second seating and I actually requested it. Last year we had first bur since our cruise was cancelled and we were put ont he 4 bight we had to take what was available and I was soooo upset but it worked out so well for us that I wouldn't dream of asking for anything else (but that's just us)

My 4yo son does not have patience for a sit down meal and we don't really have too many babysitters at home so when we have a chance to have an uninterrupted dinner for a week while he is at the club, we are jumping on it. We fed him by room service and then sent him to the club around 7:30. Worked out well.

I have never been to St Marten and would love to take advantage of amything that everyone can suggest as long as it is relatively inexpensive.

Also, Deck 7 sounds great to me...

Let's try to get a list of who is staying at the Radisson on Friday nite so perhaps we can get a jump on the "meet"

Lori

[Masonpips]

Welcome strasfamily! I'll add you to the list and repost it for everyone too.

We will be at the Radisson with our friends from Tampa (kids ages: 6, 5 (turning 6 on the cruise), 4 & 3) so your dd will fit right in! As will lruggiero's DS (4).

I definitely think the 4 of us should plan something for Friday night for the kids and trick or treating. Last year on the Magic we all brought things (a lot of us ordered from Orientaltradingcompany.com) and did our own trick or treat. We could do that in our rooms and then meet at the pool for a mini-party?

Here's the lists thus far:

On the Magic:
jel0511 - Lori, DH (mid-30's), DD (5), DS (2.5)
masonpips - Debby, dh (37), DS (6), DD (4)
debralisa - Debbie, dh (mid-30's), DS1 (6), DD1 (4), DD2 (3), DS2 (~2)
sweetspot, DH (30's) and DS13, DS11 and DD8
savsawmom - Theresa, dh (mid-30's), DD (6), DS (3)
Thumpersmom - Myself, DH (35), DS (7)
+ My parents-(mid 50's)
+ Friends (30's)
+ Brother, SIL( both 32) and my niece (4)
+ Brother and girlfriend (27 and 23)
+ Michelson's - DS (1) (friends)
+ Foss's-grandparents of the Michelson's
+ Herrera's- DS1 (turns 3 in December), DS2 (9 mos)
+ Garcia's-grandparents of the Herrera boys plus another grandson (8)
twhipple (35) and dh (48)
grimgrinnin, dw (32)
goofysgirl, dh, DD1 (15), DD2 (12), DD3 (8)
lruggiero, dh, DS (4), mom, DNiece1 (16), DNiece2 (14)
esietz (Ephie), dh (Steve) (mid 30's) DS1 Nathaniel (10), DS2 Jonah (almost 7)
dis4me, dh (30 somethings) DD1 (8), DD2 (7), DS (1)
CRenze, SIL, DNephew1 (12), DNephew2 (10)
strasfamily, dh (37), DD (5)

At Radisson on Halloween:
masonpips - Debby, dh (37), DS (6), DD (4)
savsawmom - Theresa, dh (mid-30's), DD (6), DS (3)
lruggiero, dh, DS (4), mom, DNiece1 (16), DNiece2 (14)
strasfamily, dh (37), DD (5)

also, we are looking at excursions in St. Thomas w/savsawmom. We looked at shoretrips.com and like this one: http://www.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=CAR&lcode=STT&tcode=001144, you can also book it direct via: http://www.vi-fun-n-sun.com/newhorizons/newhorizonshome.html (cheaper here too)

We've also looked at private boats that hold 6. We'd have two rented and have room for up to 4 more folks. One of the places we contacted was this: www.sailwinifred.com

Is anyone interested in something like this? My family would volunteer to be split (2 and 2) during the sail time if another family of 3 or 4 wanted to be together.

We haven't reserved anything yet, just looking around!

[dis4me]

Hi Masonpips.Have you ever chartered a yacht?Those trips look like fun. BTW We may be at the Radisson pre cruise as well. If we are my kids would love to participate in the halloween fun.Did you do this on the cruise last year. We sailed the week after Halloween but I thought it would have been so much fun tohave a miniHalloween party on board.

[grimgrinnin]

Hi strasfamily,
Nope, no kids. It will be just the 2 of us.


I just heard that there is no longer an Avis counter at the Radisson by the port. I'm trying to figure out how this will affect us. We were going to get in late 10/31, drive to the Radisson, return the car at the Avis counter at the hotel, then take the hotel shuttle to the Ship.

Anyone know if there's a shuttle at the new Avis location that goes to the Radisson?

grim

[twhipple]

Where is the Avis counter now? Do they still shuttle you to the port? We're taking Avis for our October 16th cruise, but not staying at the Radisson. Will you be able to drop the car off on 10/31 (are they still open) or will you have to take it back in the morning? If you have to take it in the morning, you can get a ride to the port. I'm assuming you have a one day rental so that may be the best choice. That way if you need any beverages to take with you, etc., you have a car to go to the store in the morning.

[grimgrinnin]

Someone on a mailing list I subscribe to mentioned the Avis location moving about a mile away. I just checked the Avis website, and the address is the same as the Radisson Resort (8701 ASTRONAUT BOULEVARD), so I don't know for certain. Guess I'll have to make a phone call.

I was planning on renting the car the evening of 10/31 at MCO and returning it the morning of 11/1. I guess it will work out either way, as long as there's an Avis shuttle.


grim

[SweetSpot]

This was posted a couple days ago about Avis moving on 8/1. Dave's site says Avis is now 1 1/2 miles away from the Raddison now.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?threadid=416203

I believe his site also says that Hertz is now the closest to the port for your return to the airport. This is the link to Dave's page on car rentals.

http://www.dcltribute.com/carhire/

Avis was at the Raddison when we were there last year and it did make it seem convenient especially because you had both shuttles to use to get you too and from the port. We drove from NJ to FL and had our own car and opted to park at the port. I found it well worth the money not having to deal with the stress of trying to get a spot on the shuttle.

[strasfamily]

I guess Budget is the closest to the port now - I believe 3 miles away on the same street as the Radisson. I booked with them as they have a counter at the airport as well and I called to verify that they do have a shuttle to the port. Hertz has an off-airport site and may cost a little bit more.

[strasfamily]

Grimgrinin:

I forgot to mention in my last post - I did call Avis while I was checking on where I wanted to book. They do have a shuttle to the port still - they just require 24 hours notice.

[strasfamily]

Masonpips:

Would love to do a Halloween get together at the Radisson. I'm not sure when we are going to get there though. Our plane lands in Orlando at 4:00 p.m. I think hubby wants to look around Orlando before driving to the Radisson. I guess I will know more as it gets closer, but please keep me posted of your plans. What time are you guys going to be there? Even if we don't make trick-or-treating, I am hoping we can still meet everyone later.

Tracey:D

[debralisa]

DH and I are still toying with the idea of the Dolphin swim too. I hate to go on a tour for 7 1/2 hours (I know that they pack alot into those 7 1/2 hours though!) especially with DH, DD4 1/2 (who swims like a fish and has been asked to do swim team at our local YMCA!! OMG!), DD3 and DS ~2 in tow. I wish I could find a local tour that did the dolphin swim with less time involved and both my DS6 and DD4 1/2 .

DH thinks the yacht idea is great, but we would need our own boat for just the 6 of us. :p

Deb, keep me posted on the plans, ya never know:cool:

I can't wait to meet you all!! Deck 7 sounds great!!

Debbie

[debralisa]

The dreaded "exercise" question :) . I walk 40 miles/week and most likely will NOT come even close to that on vacation, BUT was curious if anyone else is a fairly devote walker/jogger that might be interested in a regular walk on the trip. I know, I am crazy :p but I thought I would ask while I still have willpower..hehe.

Debbie

[dis4me]

Debbie on our previous cruises I have walked about 3 miles a day on deck 4.Although since mt son was born I have been a little lazier:( .If I work back up to it I'd be happy to walk with you in the mornings or after dinner.Let me know. My dh would be thrilled because I wouldn't be forcing him to exercise with me then.I find if I talk to someone it goes much quicker.
Not sure I'd make 40 miles LOL but I could try.

[debralisa]

I'm set to go :D . DH will be thrilled too, since I won't crab all week that I am eating and gaining..blah blah blah..:rolleyes:

40 is NOT an ear mark! Whatever we walk is what we walk :) . WOOHOO!!

Debbie (who loves to talk and walk too! AND whose kids will be thrilled not to be chained to a jogger stroller for 12 mi at a time-):p

[twhipple]

I too walk daily but found it hard to keep the routine up onboard. DH and I have an agreement. If it's 2 floors or less, use the stairs up. Always use the stairs down. If it's more than 2, users choice. We stay on Deck 7 and go up for coffee, tea and juice frequently. I also like to participate in too many events to schedule walking time, though we do walk around deck 4 often.

As for the trip on St. Thomas, we found that we didn't have much time on St. Thomas to do an excursion and anything else with the early depart time. Last year we did a Shoretrips excursion. Because we reserved the whole boat, they picked us up at the dock. This saved taxi fare and time. If we would have gotten out on time (some of our party could not locate their passports and we were delayed nearly an hour), we were scheduled to return by noon. We snorkeled in two locations and had a great time. It cost us around $50 per person. Water was provided but no food or alcohol. I'd like to have time to go on the tram, so we'd be out if it didn't leave enough time.

debralisa, I believe most of the dolphin swim excursions take 7 hours minimum because of the distance. Getting over the Marigot in the morning takes a while and the ferry takes about 30 minutes. Then taxi to the Dolphin swim. Everyone gets alone time with the dolphins so it does take a while. This is why I was leaning towards doing it on our own. Yes, we still have the transportation time, but we wouldn't have to wait for many more people in the group to be able to leave. The other possibility if you want to do the dolphin swim on your own but want to save a bit of money, we could all take a taxi together to Marigot, ferry together and take a taxi to Dolphin Fantaseas together and split the costs. If we leave at the same time, we could do the same on the return, or just go alone on the way back. Time would be totally up to you and yours! The biggest plus is that we have such a long day in St. Martin so 7 hours is really not that much.

[debralisa]

sounds like a great idea! I would be very happy to share rides/split costs..that would be terrific! I just need to call them and find out what the youngest age they would allow in to touch the dolphins are so I can prepare my daughters in the event that they will be spectators.

Debbie

[CRenze]

Sign me up for the walk-a-thon. Not so sure I'd make 40 but will do what I can. This will be great! Where shall we meet and what time?

Cindy

:Pinkbounc

[twhipple]

Their website is www.dolphinfantaseas.com. I e-mailed them for more information but from the website, it says the youngest age is 5 for having an encounter. They charge $125.00 per person.
"The Dolphin Swim: The Dolphin Fantaseas interactive swim involves a half hour of up-close and personal playtime with dolphins. You'll begin your journey at the waters edge where our trainers will educate you about dolphins, how they live and their marine environment. Then you'll dip into deeper waters and learn how to feed them from your fingers, be able stroke their silky skin, watch them dive and swim around you, and listen to them use their unique echolocation. Swim, smile, and enjoy the Fantasea."
"The Stingray Adventure: The adventure begins with a Dolphin Fantaseas animal behaviorist giving a detailed briefing and guidance on how to feed and interact with the stingrays. You will have an opportunity to touch their satin-like wings as they glide effortlessly through the water. Enjoy the thrill of playing, observing and interacting with the rays. Feed them their favorite food and watch the unique way that they eat. During the entire program, a trainer will point out unique mannerisms and details of these magnificent creatures. This educational and entertaining tour is great fun for the whole family. "
Anyone else interested?

[Masonpips]

Last year I ran on deck 4 two or three times and I did the treadmill the other times (total of 5 workouts). We stayed on Deck 6 and used the stairs almost exclusively (think we took the elevator on formal night and when returning from Cayman on Deck 1 or 2).

I'll probably try to walk some too (not running right now) and I tended to go early in the day before it was too hot.

[debralisa]

Just booked our St. Thomas/St. John boat! WOOHOO!! We are using Jester Sailing Adventures (http://www.sailjester.com/). I really liked the one that Masonpips recommended (Winifred) but she is totally booked for that day and I didn't want to do a large tour...I really wanted something smaller to really enjoy the day with the kids, etc. So I looked around for other small day sail charters and found a few (they only take a max of 6...but they all say if you want they can try to schedule meeting up with other friends' boats at St. Johns if you want to).

Another good one that a friend recommended to me is: www.independence44.us
if anyone else is still interested in this type of small sail charter.

Debbie

[Bronco Joe]

We are on the 11/01/2003 cruise as well! We are driving from Michigan straight through on Friday, so we'll be trick or treating our way down I-75... We are expecting to get in a little late on Friday with a good night's sleep at the Radisson before the cruise the next day.

Included in our party is myself, my wife, 12 year old son, and 8 (almost 9) year old daughter.

We were interested in the Dolphin Encounter for the kids as well. Does anyone know if there is a charge for adults to observe? Any idea what the costs of taxis and ferries are?

[twhipple]

Through Disney the difference is $125 to observe and $180 to swim with the dolphins. I haven't heard back from Dolphin Fantaseas yet but will post when I do. Taxi from Marigot to Phillipsburg last year was about $20 for two (includes tip). The ferry ride is $10 (plus $2 tax) each way. May be less for round-trip. Shoretrips offers the dolphin excursion, but not on Tuesdays :(

[debralisa]

We currently offer one program called the Dolphin Fantaseas Encounter. Dolphin Fantaseas has created a mesmerizing environment, where upon your arrival you will be greeted by two enchanting Euclectus Parrots. As you wander though the grounds you will have the opportunity to visit our Red Footed Tortoises, Channel Billed Toucan, Hermit and Soldier Crabs and much more.


The Dolphin Fantaseas Encounter

The Dolphin Fantaseas Encounter is more than exciting, more than unique and more than amazing. You will not want to miss this thrilling excursion that combines feeding stingrays and swimming with dolphins.


About the Stingray Adventure (15 Minutes)

The adventure begins with a Dolphin Fantaseas animal behaviorist giving a detailed briefing and guidance on how to feed and interact with the stingrays. You will have an opportunity to touch their satin-like wings as they glide effortlessly through the water. Enjoy the thrill of playing, observing and interacting with the rays. Feed them their favorite food and watch the unique way that they eat. During the entire program, a trainer will point out unique mannerisms and details of these magnificent creatures. This educational and entertaining tour is great fun for the whole family.


About the Dolphin Swim (30 Minutes)

The Dolphin Fantaseas interactive swim involves a half hour of up-close and personal playtime with dolphins. You'll begin your journey at the waters edge where our trainers will educate you about dolphins, how they live and their marine environment. Then you'll dip into deeper waters and learn how to feed them from your fingers, be able stroke their silky skin, watch them dive and swim around you, and listen to them use their unique echolocation. Swim, smile, and enjoy the Fantasea.


Note: Guests are required to bring their own bathing suit and towel with them. Life jackets, booties and masks are provided. Guests participating in the dolphin swim program must be 5 years old and up.


Program Times: 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm

Cost: $125.00 per person

Each program has a maximum of 10 people per program

To meet the dolphins the group of 10 is divided into two separate groups of 5

Exclusive programs are available


Because of the high demand, we highly recommend that you make reservations for the dolphin and stingray programs in advance You can do this through our web site at www.dolphinfantaseas.com.



ALSO - Once again thank you for your email and interest in Dolphin Fantaseas. We would love to have the whole family for a visit and there is no charge to observe the program. We look forward to your visit.

:cool:

I hope that helps anyone else that is trying to decide to do their own trip to Dolphin Fantaseas or the cruise excursion.

[twhipple]

I know we got a lot of people going from New Jersey. Was anyone affected by the Blackout? Hope all are well.

[Thumpersmom]

Welcome to Bronco Joe & Family!! It is great to see people still joining us. I can not get anyone from my party to log in and say hi- I will keep trying.

Hope everyone back east has their power back on now. We survived the CA power crisis but we were never w/out power for more then 4 hours in the rolling blackouts. I can only imagine it being out for so long.

We enjoyed our trip to Disneyland but it was very HOT!! It was in the 90's everyday. We experienced the X-Games up close and personal. My DS was so excited to meet & get autographs from all of the Moto-X riders. We also did a lot of air conditioning things (Great moments w/Lincoln, Tiki Room, Pirates, Blue Bayou, Golden Dreams, Animation building, and more) and spent some time in the pool! Made me wish the cruise was closer.........

We booked a one night stay at Coronado Springs for after the cruise. Has anyone ever stayed here? We have stayed at the Grand Floridian, Beach Club and The Polynesian so it will be another resort to add to the list.

Have a great weekend!
Kristina

[lisa_from_nj]

Hi! My husband, 3 year-old daughter and I will be on the Nov. 1st Magic too. This will be our 2nd cruise on the Magic. We did a 4-day cruise on the Magic (Wonder was in drydock) in Sept. 2001. We are flying down to FL early in the week before the cruise and staying with my parents who live in the area. We are going on this cruise with a group of friends/neighbors, friends of friends and relatives of friends. I don't even know everyone.

We are flying from JFK (rate of $175 pp) because the rates out of EWR, ACY and PHL were insane. We've never used JFK before, we plan to drive there and park somewhere, does anyone know of a good long term parking lot there?

Also, we are going to MK on Halloween and going to MNSSHP.

We are so excited! :D

Lisa

[MJwritestuff]

We're from South Jersey too - B/G twins age 8 (almost 9) and DD 7. We're still deciding between Eastern or Western (we book last minute because of travel agent rates that my MIL gets us) but it looks pretty sure to me that we'll be on this one.

This would be my choice because my son is on an all natural diet and Halloween is hard for him, this would work out perfectly as we'll fly down to the Radisson around noon on Friday. My daughter has an adopted manatee, so we're planning on seeing that at Merritt Park on Saturday morning.

Until reading this board, I hadn't realized another benefit is my kids missing less school. Anyone know how many vacation days the public schools in South Jersey are giving that week? Usually I think it's Thursday and Friday.

Can't wait!!!

-MJ

[dis4me]

MJ lots of NJ people will be on the ships. We did the Western last year the week after this and even though teacher's convention is 6and 7th many people were there the week after.
You dds will fit right in.I know we have lots of 8 year old girls. I have a dd 8 turning 9 in Jan and a dd 7 turning 8 and December.
Welcome aboard fi you decide to join us
Welcome Bronco Joe and Lisa also
Bronco Joe when will your daughter be 9.

[SweetSpot]

Hi MJwritestuff:

This is the link to the NJ Education website listing all future convention dates.

http://www.njea.org/njeaconvention/futuredates.asp

It will come in handy especially if you decide to rebook on the cruise for the following year. This year the days of the convention are Nov. 6, 7, & 8 which gives us the Thurday and Friday off. We are in Washington Township and we usually have the entire week off for parent teacher meetings and the convention dates but this year we will only get Wed, Thurs, Fri and the following Mon and Tues off. It means the kids will miss three days of school because we will drive down on Friday but it is worth the time off.

Have you ever tried to do the Disney Cruise last minute in Nov? Last year NJ week was close to a sold out cruise, filled with kids from NJ. It seems so many families take advantage of the time off from school and head to WDW or DCL.

[dis4me]

Our kids have 1/2 day Tuesday No School -Thurs Fri and Mon.
Sweetspot are you taking advantages of the additional days off and heading to WDW.I assume you drive right through since you are leaving Friday. What time do you leave and what time do you arrive at the port???
I can't decide what to do yet. We have 1/2 days the week before for Parent Teacher Conferences Mon- Wed , normal day Thrusday and Fri is Halloween. They will definately not miss much that week but then technically they are missing8 days even though 4 our halves.

[SweetSpot]

Dis4me:

I hadn't thought about taking advantage of the days down there until you mentioned it. Last year we drove right home because we only had that Monday off and my DH really needed to get back to work. I think it was killing him not going near a computer (except an 1/2 hour everyday to catch up and deal with emergencies) for that long. One of the reasons I was determined to get back on the ship this year was because I don't remember seeing him that relaxed in years. I should consider a day or 2 in WDW since we have so many extra days.

We do drive straight thru. Two years ago we left around 9:00AM and it was horrible. We learned our lesson and left last year around 2AM. The kids were exhausted because the night before was Halloween and they were up late and they slept in the car until sunrise. We were at the Radisson by 6:30 and would have been there an hour earlier if we hadn't hit construction on I95. My DH does all the driving and we only stop if there's a McD's that has gas and a clean bathroom. Got to get all the necessities in on one stop! The drive home is long but I love the convenience of having my car without airport hassle.

What part of NJ are you from? I 'm so happy to hear that you and so many others have DD's my DD's age. Last year there weren't many girls her age in the club and she didn't get friendly with anyone (although she loved the clubs). It seems this year the DD's 8&9 will have the run of the club.

[dis4me]

Sweetspot
I know what you mean about the 8 and 9 year old's. Last year there seemed to be few girls on the ship. THis year they are bound to make some friends. I hope they will let me put my dd(7) up with her sister. She wil be 8 in December and has done the 5-7 froup 3 times already.
We are from Monmouth County. It is funny but there are a whole group from my area going on the Disney Wonder that same week. We didn't feel we could do the 4 day after doing the 7 day 3 times. I don't know why they don't close school the whole week here. Many people are going away and it is more aggravation for the teachers to teach with half a class. Last year my dd 1st grade class had 5 out of 16 out for the week and 2 others wound up with strep. So she said it was a wasted week. My dd did all her work then was ahead when we got back because the class didn't quite make it that far.
Do you get the work in advance or let them make it up when tehy return?
When we drove last year we left at 7pm after dinner adn drove straight through.It took a little under 18 hours but my ds was a baby then. this year he is 18 months and we will need to stop more often to let him run around

[SweetSpot]

Dis4me:

I think the reason our days off this year is because it use to be linked to Veterans Day and they aren't doing it this year or next. We all got so spoiled and noone I know is willing to change their old habits. The schools last year were 1/2 empty because families love that week off and planned for it before the new calendar came out. We were lucky because the teachers were aware that kids would be aways and didn't schedule any tests or teach anything critical during that time. I didn't get the work for the kids last year and I'm not going to bother this because they will only miss 3 days one being Halloween. They will make it up when they get back.

I can't imagine doing the drive with such a little child. I never tried it until my youngest turned 5. It surprises me how great the kids have been during the drive. They spend the whole time watching videos I pick up at Blockbusters clearance sale and play their gameboys.

[Bronco Joe]

Originally posted by dis4me
Bronco Joe when will your daughter be 9.

My girl will be 9 in December.

We actually traveled last year during the first and second week of December (right after Thanksgiving) to go to DW and the 4 day cruise. I just couldn't see spending the money and then fighting the crowds, so we decided we were pulling the kids out of school no matter what. They did OK, but this year it is bound to get harder with my son starting middle school. I figure with us having parent-teacher conferences that week there will be three half days, and the kids don't get much done those days anyway. I wish michigan would adopt a "strange" week off for the kids like it sounds NJ has.

[vacationfinatic]

Hello everyone on the 11/1/03 cruise. We're counting down the days until we leave. It will be myself (38), my dh (39), ds (9), and ds (5). We are also going with my sister, her husband, and their 5 yr. old triplets. ( 2 girls, 1 boy). We can't wait. We don't live in the same state so we trying to coordinate everything via telephone. Should be interesting. She is in Atlanta and I'm in Chicago.

:smooth:

[MJwritestuff]

OH wow! I hadn't realized how many of us NJ people would actually be thinking the same thing (duh!) - I'm really happy that my kids will miss less school, but no, I never tried to book a vacation in November before so I'm keeping my fingers crossed!
Without booking last minute (30 days in advance), we couldn't do this at all. With all 5 of us, we really need that hefty TA discount from my MIL, so it's this way or no way.
I hope we get to go - it sounds like we'd really meet some great local people as well as non-locals who have kids the same age. We're from Camden County, btw.
Say a wish for us that we get to join all of you!
-MJ

[SweetSpot]

Welcome vacationfinatic! The closer we get the more people we seem to get.

MJwritestuff:

I didn't realize that DCL would even offer a good discount to anyone within the last 30 days. I don't think our ship was completely full last year but it was close. NJ was a fun week to go. It was interesting listening as the announced families on to the ship. It seemed every other one was from NJ. The comedians even worked it into their acts.

It is a shame that every state doesn't have a week off season like this. I really love being able to go to the parks when they are cooler and less crowded and the ship when the prices are lower.

[vacationfinatic]

I hear all of you NJ people talking about your parent conference week. Well, I attempted to take that week too. Every year our schools have the 1st week in November as parent teacher conferences and the kids get at least 21/2 days off. We booked our cruise 11 months in advance before the school schedule came out. I missed by a week. The teachers decided that this year they would start after labor day, therefore, pushing everything back a week. I'm not worried about my kindergartener, but my 4th grader will have lots of homework. Luckily, the week after we get back he only has a day and a half of school. Lots of free time to make up his work. Oh well. Hopefully next time I'll have better luck in planning.

By the way, are there any boys on this cruise? I keep reading about all the girls. My sons will be greatly disappointed.

[Masonpips]

Hi vacationfinatic and mjwritestuff and broncojoe and lisa_from-nj!

There is a list of everyone about 2 pages back, I'll try to copy it over here soon. Kindergarten starts here for my DS (he will be with us and will have just turned 6 vacationfinatic so your boy will not be alone) so we are busy getting ready for that today.

[tagall4]

Hi everyone, First time user here.
Family and I will be sailing on our first Disney cruise. I was excited to see ages and gender of children, although I wasn't really concerned about their not being enough kids on board: this is a Disney cruise after all. I can't seem to remember the lingo for a boy or girl, so I'll have to be uncool and say, "I have 2 sons, ages 12 & 14, and a daughter, age 8. It sounds as if she'll have more than enough friends. We are traveling with friends whose children are as follows: boy-12, boy-9, girl-almost 5.
Yes, we're from Jersey. Our flights are booked from Phl. (cheapest rates). Our friends however, are having a hard time finding something reasonable. If anybody comes across a deal please let us know.
We're flying in on the 31st and staying at the MCO-Hyatt. Anybody else? I read a few of you will be at the Radisson. Is that in the airport too?
For those of you who have taken this journey before: What's the best way to get from the airport to Port Canaveral? I should say most reasonable, and ofcourse, reliable.
I am also a jogger. A very slow pace but would be interested in meeting up with those of you who were discussing this. It might be the motivation I need to jog on the ship.
My DH (did I get that right?) was a little disappointed finding out that their isn't a casino on board. Does anyone know about the casinos on St. Maarten? Actually, I think he's afraid of goin stir crazy on board. Any thoughts here?
I've got to run, but will definitely be back with more Q&A.

[Masonpips]

hi tagall4! Dh (you did it right, dear husband, or another D word of your choice if you're not happy with him) and I found plenty to do without the casino. We were so thrilled to have some adult time that we hung out at the pool (adult one), ate lunch alone, played bingo, visited the spa, etc. Looking back, I honestly feel that I didn't get to do everything I wanted to - we did none of the shipboard series stuff and felt overwhelmed at the choices. I think your dh will have plenty to do!

The Radisson is in Port Canaveral (hour east of MCO). Last year the best deal was to rent a one-way from Avis - it was about $35 for Fri pick-up/Sat drop-off and their office was at the Radisson. Dh took us to the ship Sat a.m., returned the car and rode the Avis shuttle over to the ship. They have moved their rental location however and now it's farther away - you can still do the same thing but it's not as convenient as it was.

[dis4me]

Welcome all new vacationers We are so glad you could join us. THis ought to be a great Dismeet.
TAGALL4 We found great rates out of Laguardia on American. 135 RT although we did not book them. It seems all airlines are aware of the NJ teachers convention. Years ago we used to fly out for close to nothing and no one else really vacationed NOW everyone goes that week. I think it is wonderful that we have that time off although our district doesn't have the whole week.
Vacationfanatic I am sorry to hear the dates were changed. I always get my children's work and have it completed before they go back and they really don't miss a thing. I am sure your will be fine.
I can't believe all the girls The oceanears lab should be great for them. I am so excited.
Does anyone have late seating??

[Masonpips]

totally un-cruise related, but I sent my first baby to Kindergarten today ~sniff~. The good thing is that this was a milestone getting us closer to the cruise!

Hopefully this picture isn't too huge!

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3d601b3127cce8ca1651bf4ab0000002511

Thanks for letting me indulge.... It seems like yesterday I was pregnant and just thinking about his birth and now he's in school! Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

[dis4me]

Aww he looks so cute, Masonpips, Doesn't time fly by.
My dds start school on September 3. When does your little guy get out?

[Masonpips]

right now end of year is scheduled for May 28 with 3 built-in bad weather days - not sure if we'll get out early if we don't use them. Last year we had 4 snow days and they had to do 2 make-up days at the end of the year so I think they're planning ahead this year!

[dis4me]

We have 3 snow days in our calendar too, always have. Last year was the first year in a long time that we used them. If we don't though they take off days during the year not at the end because they don't want to change graduations and such. Our kis get out June 18. THis year they got out June 24.May 28 would be so great. I think they are just about ready to go back.

[MJwritestuff]

Hey all,
Masonpips, that picture is wonderful. I know just how you feel! Tagall, we are also staying at the MCO Hyatt the night before (I'm a big Halloween Scrooge because my 8 year old son can't eat anything at all candy-wise, so we've paid him off for years - what we spend at the Hyatt will be a deal, believe me!)
We're flying out of AC on Spirit Airlines, because it's cheaper according to my TA, who is also my MIL. We took them to DisneyWorld last year and we're really happy with them. No delays and great staff.
BTW, if we meet up we'll just have to make our own bets (who needs a casino anyway!) like $20 to the first husband to get pulled up on stage and be embarrassed or something - from what I read, there will be many betting opportunities on board (LOL!)
Right now, I'm betting myself some Ben & Jerry's that I can't go more than three hours without reading these boards again. I don't know what's more addictive - staying on these boards or a pint of New York Super Fudge Chunk.
Till next time ....
-MJ

[tagall4]

Hi everyone. I got a little nervous when I couldn't find the thread. I didn't realize how it was set up by response dates. I'm learning.
Anyhow, thank you to all for getting back so quickly with the info. My friends snd I really appreciate it.
Mj, I was glad to see someone else staying at the Hyatt. We booked it back in January on line for $88/nite. A real steal. Our flight doesn't get into 10:10pm. I knew we wouldn't be up for a drive anywhere so I checked the Hyatt site. Couln't pass it up.
So how are you getting from the airport to the port? This site is awesome for info. I found out the names of several companies on different threads that will transport both ways. I'm still researching prices, but I'll let you know what I come up with.
The more times I visit this site, the more time I spend on line. I think dh (I actually thought the 'd' was for disney, not dear) is starting to feel neglected. But since we are first timers, I want to make sure we get as much out of our trip as possible. I can't believe how much we didn't know before - scary!
We go back to school on 9/03 also. And since I am a teacher, I'll be going back too - boo hoo. Whoever wrote about the flights from Jersey during convention week is right. Prices have skyrocketed over the years. We used to fly out of AC too. Can't touch anything reasonable now, unless you book well over a year in advance.
Does anyone have info on the dolphin excursion? Can children
join this on their own? Are there any special accommodations for this? My kids have expressed interest, but personally, I could pass. I'd really hate to spend $180 or even $125 just to watch.
Also, will my dh need a suit for this cruise? I kind of got that impression. He has business suits, but I can't picture him in one on the ship.
What's the big deal with the dinner rotations? I've noticed several people inquiring on other threads. Does it have to do with booking at Palos? If so, which nite would I or should I try to dine there?
Times up! Thanks again to everyone. Be back soon.

[twhipple]

tagall4, I'll try to answer some of your questions.

Dolphin excursion: look back in this thread, we had some discussions about it. You can do it on your own and it may be a little cheaper, especially for the watchers.

Suit for DH: If you plan to eat in the dining rotation rooms on Sunday and/or Thursday, you want a suit. My DH will be wearing a tux for whichever one is formal now (I think it's still Sunday) and a suit for the other. He'll also wear a suit to Palos. We're renting the tux from Cruiseline Formals.

Dinner Rotations: Doesn't have to do with booking Palos (directly). Each night you will move to another dining room for dinner. Your waitstaff will follow you. You will have the same table number, but in a different room. Last year we started in Lumieres the first night, Animators Palate on Sunday, and Parrot Cay Monday. Then you repeat. There are 4 special dinners during the week which everyone has in every restaurant that day. You will have the menu from the particular restaurant for meals on Saturday, Monday and Wednesday. If you want to see the menus, look at Dave's site (dcltribute.com) or Barb and Tony's site (*****************). Both have copies of the menus for all 7 nights.

Palos: Palos is for adults only and is wonderful. What we did for Palos last time was to see what our rotation was going to be, determine which night we were willing to give up dinner at our regular rotation, and booked then. What some people do is double dip. Make an early Palos reservation if you have late dining and go to both (or the other way around). We picked the night that didn't have very much we were interested in trying and decided to go just for a second dessert to our normal rotation.

Hope this helps. If I messed anything up everyone, please correct me!

[dis4me]

hey tagall4 Wht distric tdo you work in?m I taught special ed in Hazlet and Union beach until last year when my son was born and I resigned. Do you have the whole week off?
Twhipple your answers looked good to me:)

[pann]

I'm so glad to see that there will be kids of the same ages as mine. 8 y.o. girl & 14 y.o. girl. This is our 1st Disney Cruise & have been counting the days. We hated to take the girls out of school, but it was the only time we could do it. We will just have to work hard before & after the time. We are not from Jersey, but the mid-west.
Counting the Days!!!!

[dis4me]

Welcome Pann

[debralisa]

So glad to see more people on board!! WOOHOO!!

My DS will start kindergarten in NJ this next week, after Labor day (and my daughter's 3rd birthday).

We are actually using the DCL air deviation out of Newark, so we are in the minority here...BUT we didn't need to pay any extra over the fee per seated passenger for the deviation itself AND we are covered this way if anything happens weatherwise/arilinewise, etc....DCL picks up the tab. With a family of 6, I figured this was the way to go this time around. We are also flying down of Halloween eve (I think we leave around 7pm from NJ). We will also be staying in the Hyatt at the Airport. Then we will take the DCL transport to the ship.

Can't wait!! We are renewing our wedding vows on the ship Nov. 6 and having some of our friends join in with us who are also on the cruise (masonpips is one!! WOOHOO!!). I have my first fitting in two weeks for my dress and can't believe it is right around the corner!!

Debbie

[dis4me]

Masonpips I hope you don't mind I copied your list and added the newcomers. Anyone missing?

The un-official Nov 1 cruise list:

jel0511 - Lori, DH (mid-30's), DD (5), DS (2.5)
masonpips - Debby, dh (37), DS (6), DD (4)
debralisa - Debbie, dh (mid-30's), DS1 (6), DD1 (4), DD2 (3), DS2 (~2)
sweetspot, DH (30's) and DS13, DS11 and DD8
savsawmom - Theresa, dh (mid-30's), DD (6), DS (3)
Thumpersmom - Myself, DH (35), DS (7)
+ My parents-(mid 50's)
+ Friends (30's)
+ Brother, SIL( both 32) and my niece (4)
+ Brother and girlfriend (27 and 23)
+ Michelson's - DS (1) (friends)
+ Foss's-grandparents of the Michelson's
+ Herrera's- DS1 (turns 3 in December), DS2 (9 mos)
+ Garcia's-grandparents of the Herrera boys plus another grandson (8)
twhipple (35) and dh (48)
grimgrinnin, dw (32)
goofysgirl, dh, DD1 (15), DD2 (12), DD3 (8)
lruggiero, dh, DS (4), mom, DNiece1 (16), DNiece2 (14)
esietz (Ephie), dh (Steve) (mid 30's) DS1 Nathaniel (10), DS2 Jonah (almost 7)
dis4me, dh (30 somethings) DD1 (8), DD2 (7), DS (1)
CRenze, SIL, DNephew1 (12), DNephew2 (10)
pann dd(8) dd(14)
tagall4 ds(14) ds(12) dd(8)
Friends dd(5) ds (12) ds (9)
Lisa_from_NJ dh, dd(3)
MJwritestuff dd(7) dd(8 almost 9) ds(8 almost 9)
vacationfinatic(38) dh(39)ds(9) ds(5)
her sister triplets 2 dd ds(5)
Bronco Joe ds(12) dd(8 almost 9)
mrspat2 dd(9) dd(7)

Please forgive me if I missed anyone. Feel free to add or change any mistakes.

[tagall4]

twhipple, thanx for getting back to me on some of those issues.
Do we definitely need a tux? I know my dh will not not be thrilled about that...a suit on vacation is enough for him. We want to book a night at Palos also. I just wasn't sure if one restaurant would be better to miss than another. Checking out the menu would make sense - duh. Thanx for Dave's site. I had Castawayclub but it's good to keep posting it so other's see it.

Dis4me, Thanks for the updated list. I found out the other nite that a dd friend (8) and her bro (11 or 12) are on our trip too. She's traveling with an aunt & family. I'll see if I can find out more info on them. I live and teach in Toms River. Last year I made a big move out of self-contained and into resource and inclusion-8th gr. This year I'll be teaching all inclusion in 7th. It was a great change. I'm not even dreading going back next week. You took a big step in resigning - Enjoy!

Debralisa, Congratultions!!!!!!! What a great idea. How many years?

To all concerned, we do not have the whole week off, only Th.-Fr.
My ds will miss a whole week of private HS because they don't get off for convention. I'm not too worried, he's a good student.

Hey, I just went back thru some of the thread. Can't remember who it was...but I grew up in Raritan, somerset cty. Keep wondering if we'll know who anyone is.

Got to run again. But I'll be checking back frequently, atleast till school starts.

[dis4me]

tagall4 My dh has not worn a tux on any of our dcl cruises. Some people do, many do not. It is up to your own person preference. he will definately need a suit for the formal nights though.
I did inclusion for a few years when it was first introduced here. However many older teachers were against it andit was not received well.I am glad to hear things have changed and you enjoy it. I loved resource room pullout. The small group seemed to make a difference for my students. have a great school year.
Ps We lived in Brick for a while when we were first married.

[Masonpips]

Hi everyone and welcome to our new people! Dis4me, thanks for updating the list!

We booked a private charter for St. Thomas so that's taken care of and we plan to go to Orient Beach by taxi in St. Maarten, plus do some shopping so I think our activities are ready. I started my cruise box (formally) this weekend. Now I have a spot to actually put everything I've been stuffing in drawers over the last few months!

My dh will rent a tux, but last year was the first time since our wedding (1996) that he had worn one (we laughed about that going to Palo's) so we still find it fun to dress up! It is not required by any means however. We did like the fact that it was less clothing for him to pack too!

I ordered a bunch of stuff from OrientalTrading.com so I am ready for any Halloween activities. I got a bunch of tattoos for the kids and stuff like that. We have our reservations at the Radisson already too!

And, last but not least, the weight bench has made it up from the basement to our bedroom and we are in the process of trying to get back in shape (oh how age plays evil tricks on the body). Luckily I think with 9+ weeks to go, we have plenty of time!

[Bronco Joe]

Originally posted by Masonpips
Dh (you did it right, dear husband, or another D word of your choice if you're not happy with him)

I thought it was "Disney" husband/wife/etc.... :D

[lruggiero]

Debbie-

Hi,
Just curious, what is the DCL deviation flight from Newark?

[lruggiero]

Where is everyone???


Has anyone had to make their final payment yet?

[twhipple]

I made my final payment a couple weeks ago. Since I'm going on two cruises two weeks apart, one came due so I paid for both. I also wanted to get both on this credit card statement (using Disney card) so that I could earn the most DreamDollars possible only my TA messed up and only got one of the cruises in before the end of my billing cycle. I ordered the dollars and was told it only takes about 3 weeks, so I should have time to get more with the next statement!

Time to start organizing everything. I've got my packing lists and have some stuff set aside. Once we get past September 18, I won't expect any overnight guests before vacation and the guest bedroom turns into Packing Central!!:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[Masonpips]

I paid DU about 10 days ago or so, once the Fl resident rates came out and it ended up being less for us to stay where we were with our onboard credit (we were going to swap people with our friends). Luckily they still got to take advantage of the better rates!

I have clothing hung up (DD's dresses, DS's tux), a box of kid stuff ready (clothing and OrientalTrading stuff) and a box of other stuff (suntan lotion, disposable cameras, shoe holder, etc.).

We're going to the lake this weekend so once we get back, I can de-summer my house of stuff and start moving what I need of it into my packing area!

[dis4me]

We paid last week.I was hoping the earlier I paid the better chance of getting fist seating.No such luck.Oh well I will try and get it on the ship.If not we will make do,we may wind up loving it. I still don't have my stateroom yet so i am anxiously awaiting that info.

[Bronco Joe]

We made our final payment a couple of weeks ago through our travel agent. We just received our charter member pin for the Disney Credit Card, too.

[tagall4]

We don't have a balance. We booked thru DVC. Hopefullly, all will work out well and we won't hit any snags. Everything has been easy so far.

Metting place...Deck 7....1st day...but what time?

walkers/joggers...any concrete plans yet?

2 days till school starts, but only 60 till departure

oh! almost forgot. Are we allowed to bring small cooler on board with drinks? I'm reading conflicting accounts on other threads.

[strasfamily]

I haven't seen the other threads saying you can't, but I haven't been keeping up very well either.

Maybe post a new thread to the people that have just returned to see if they were still able to bring a cooler?

[SweetSpot]

The documents you receive before you cruise say that you aren't allowed to bring coolers. They mean hardsided coolers. DCL is fine with you bringing on your own beverages. Last year we brought beer and soda onboard and had no problems at all. I packed the cases in roll on luggage and the porter took it from us and it was delivered to our room. I packed a collapsible cooler which our room steward refilled with ice everyday. We had absolutely no problem and we very upfront about what was in the luggage. I plan on doing the same thing again this year.

It is important to mention we did not fly. If you do you will probably have to buy your beverages on the way to the port.

[dis4me]

Hey all I just bought our tickets to MNSSHP on Halloween night.I realize it will be very crowded but since we usually miss Halloween by a few days we figured we would take advantage. Sorry that we will miss the trick or treat at the Radison though It sounds like alot of fun.
Is any one else going to MNSSHP on 10/31?

[Thumpersmom]

Yes, being from the West Coast we thought it was best to fly in on a red-eye Thursday night arriving Friday morning and also thought it would probably be the one and only time to do it so why not. DS is excited but still not sure about "missing" Halloween. We have not decided on costumes yet......

Kristina

[mrspat2]

Me, my husband and DD 7 and 9 will also be on the 11/1 cruise. We will be flying in on 10/29 doing MNSSHP on 10/30 because we heard how croweded it was on 10/31. Last year we did it on 11/1 and it was not crowded at all and the kids loved it. Then we still have one more day to hit the park before the cruise. THis is the first cruise for my DH and DD's but second for me. Also from south jersey and have always taken advantage of the teachers convention week.

[tagall4]

Thanks strasfamily and sweetspot for info on drinks/coolers. Someone, somewhere, don't recall which site now, suggested packing a suitcase/small bag full of h20 bottles for the trip and using the empty suitcase for souviners/etc. on the way home. And bottles can be refilled as needed on board for shore excursions.

What do those poor people who don't know about these sites do?

Any info on the meeting time day 1 yet?

welcome mrspat2. where in so jersey r u from? we're from toms river.

[mrspat2]

we are from Medford Lakes. We have doen Disney almost every 6 months for the past few years and my kids are actually getting tired of it, so I am hoping the Disney Cruise will be different for them. Still trying to make final decisions on what to do in the ports, possibly chartering a boat in St Maarten and going to Anguilla, my husband wants to Snuba with my DD, 9, but that leaves me and DD, 7, to do something else in St thomas. DH was thinking of snuba at coral world has anyone ever done that? or suggest another place?

So I hear of a NJ meet on Deck 7 day 1. Actually that is the deck we are on.

[dis4me]

Welcome Mrspat2
I will be in Fl on Oct 28th but since my dh willnot get there until the 31 we are waiting for him to go to MNSSHP. Did your daughters enjoy it last year.I look at it this day we have done WDW at Christmas time so it can't be THAT crowded.(I hope;)).

[mrspat2]

We have never done Disney at Christmas and have only done MNSSHP on Nov 1 last year. We heard that the 31 is so crowded that we opted for the 30 this year. Ride lines were close to nothing. I am hoping that it will not be as crowded on the 30th. My girls loved it and when we gave them the option this year of WDW then cruise or Cruise then WDW they chose WDW first so they can do MNSSHP and miss there parties at school. They like the idea of picking a theme and the whole family dressing. Last year we did Peter Pan. This year it is Dalmations. YEs, I can't wait to se my DH as a Dalmation. Of course I am not having luck in buying these this year, in past years you could find them, so I opted to make them, simple ones at least.

[dis4me]

Does anyone know what the current movies onboard are? With 3 days at sea I figured we could catch up on what we haven't seen.

[dis4me]

Dalmations sound cute. My dd wants to be Pocahontas and other wants to be either Lilo or Ashante(never heard of ashante) so we will not be doing a theme. I have no idea what my son will be. What was the weather like last year? I am afraid the costumes will be to warm. We were there Nov 3-16 last year and it was still shorts weather.
PS Has anyone picked a time for deck 7? Are we doing before or after the sailaway party?My dds are so excited to meet all the girls on board.

[mrspat2]

We were there just a bit earlier than you last year and it was shorts weather during the day and a little cooler at night. We all had long sleeve tshirts and were fine.

[dis4me]

thanks
PS I added you to the list.
Maybe we should make a new list and put actual names with our user names.

[keithbpatterson]

Hi - I am mrspat2's hubby - here are pics of the MNSSHP. It really was a blast last year.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party 2002 (http://www.geocities.com/keithbpatterson)

Has anyone done SNUBA before? I want to take my 9 year old daughter in St. Thomas. Anyone else interested?

SNUBA (http://www.visnuba.com/aboutsnuba.htm)


:earsboy:

[dis4me]

Great pictures Keith.I love that you did a theme with the family. We have snorkled but never Snuba. Sounds like a lot of fun.If my ds (18 mos ) was not with us we would try it

[lruggiero]

I can't believe it's September 1st!!!!!!

I like the idea of the list with actual names, it starts to get confusing after awhile.

We are Lori, John, Vincent (4) Alyssa (16) Natalie (14) and my mom, Loretta

Anyone else agree about this...

Also, I think it's better to meet after the sailaway only because it's just so crazy at that time. I have seen the show already but for the people who are first timers, they are gonna want to get there early so they can get a a good position.

[twhipple]

I hope the meet on Deck 7 we're talking about is a DISmeet rather than a NJ meet. I know there are a lot of you from NJ but the rest of us would like to join in too ;)

We are Tracy (now 35!) and Bill (48). Anytime on Saturday is fine with us to meet. We're late diners so there won't be a conflict. Has anyone thought about getting pins or tags of some sort to identify us all as DISers? I've read about it being done before (I think it was lime green ribbons). That way if we see someone before the meet, we can start the meeting and greeting early. Any thoughts?

[Bronco Joe]

Originally posted by dis4me
Does anyone know what the current movies onboard are? With 3 days at sea I figured we could catch up on what we haven't seen.

Here's a link to another thread with info on recent movies...

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=400224

[CRenze]

Great idea, adding "real names" along with dis user name.

My name is Cindy and I'll be traveling with my SIL Julie, DNephew 1 (12) Zachary and DNephew 2 (10) Nathan.

Looking forward to meeting you all! :Pinkbounc

WOOHOO..60 days...well, I don't count today because I'm already outta bed and my day has started and I don't count departure day so that puts us at 58 days!!

This is our first cruise so we'll need details...Deck 7? forward or Aft? What time? We too have late dinning. I liked the idea of somehow identifying ourselves, but how and with what?

Cindy
:wave:

[Thumpersmom]

Yah for the real names!

We are Kristina (35) Clark (35) and Kyle (7).


Welcome to so many new cruisers! We can't wait either. Too funny about the way you count the days Cindy. We count as number of days plus a wake up! My husband started this and now my son does it too. My husband said when you wake up on departure day you will be there on that day so you do not need to count it.

We are also late seating. Maybe that is another thing to add to the new list with names.

Anyone heard if they have been upgraded?

[mrspat2]

As for the movies, you can call one week ahead of time 888-325-2500 reservations and they will tell you the movies that will play on the ship, at least that is what I read.

As for names, DH(Keith) 38, DD (Jordan)9, DD (Taylor) 7, and myself (Diana) 35. We also have late seating.

Just confirmed all of our excursions last night and today. We are doing two on our own and one through Disney on CC (just rental of bike, float, and snorkel). We chartered a boat for half a day for St. Martin, and my husband and daughter are SNUBA at Coral on St Thomas.

[danamay]

Please add us to the list, we just booked our cruise last week. It will be me (May), DH (Peter) and DD 5 (Dana). Looking forward to meet everyone onboard.

twhipple: took you advice and join the fun.

[tagall4]

hey, great idea with the names. we're Terri, dh-George, ds(14)Trevor, ds(12)(1 wk shy of 13 on cruise) Chris, and dd(8) Cassidy.

Our friends are Andy and Kris, ds(12) Andrew, ds(9) Mathew and dd(4) Marissa.

Snuba sounds like fun, but we just booked golf and champ. cata. excursions for st. thomas/st jonn. We're free on st maarten though. We decided to skip the dolphin deal...at almost $200 each, it's just tooooo much. We also did the package deal at CC.

DISmeet Deck 7 after the sailaway party sounds good. Where on 7? Lime green ribbons? Husband can be a scrooge-don't know if he'll wear ribbon, but kids and myself would.

Keith and family --Halloween pictures look great. I love the theme idea too.

I officially started gathering items for packing. Let the fun begin!!!

[Masonpips]

Hi all!

We are: Debby and Chris, Mason (6) and Lauren (4)

We're booked in St. Thomas for a daysail (independently) and are planning on the beach (on our own) in St. Maarten. We haven't talked about Castaway Cay much yet, I would like to spend some time at the adult beach and some at the family one as well. Last time we did the couple's cabana massage at 9 a.m. which was nice, but I felt like we weren't at the beach that much as it was 10:30 or so before we got dressed, back on the tram and over to the Family Beach.

We're up for a DIS-meet on Deck 7 aft deck. Is it between the sailaway party and first seating? Like 5-6 - come and go as you please?

Just trying to catch up - we were at the lake (in the rain) all weekend so I'm behind!

[strasfamily]

Hi Everyone!

We are Robert (38), Tracey (37) and Sydney (5).

Did anyone get their cabin #'s yet? Anyone upgraded?

My travel agent screwed up our reservation, so they have to redo it. When I got my receipt, they charged me $200 more than they quoted, so I am afraid what I find when I get my next receipt. I used the travel agency through our timeshare - never again. Sometimes saving a little money isn't worth the extra hassle. When I call them, it is at least a 15 minute wait just to talk to someone.

OK - rant over. Thanks for listening. I guess I better check on some excursions! Where is the time going??? Not much longer!!!

[debralisa]

We are:

Debbie (36), Gregg (37), Ryan (almost 6), Kayla (4 3/4), Kenzie (3), and Logan (almost 23 months).

lruggiero: I am sorry it took so long to answer your Air Deviation question. We are flying out on Delta 2509 from EWR to MCO on 10/31 at 7:45p-10:21p.

Walking/Jogging: I am up for anytime: 8-9am ish? Is that WAY to early for most people on vacation (remember I have FOUR kids...there is NO WAY they will let me sleep in vacation or not-LOL). I am not a breakfast person, so walking to me first thing in the am is the BEST! LMK what you all think and I am very flexible.

I am fine for a Deck 7 meeting, we only have to be ready for dinner at the main seating. I think we were going to have a mini-sail away sometime that night as well with a few friends...but no set time (I am sure they are all flexible :-) ). Name the color ribbons and we are there!

Debbie

[dis4me]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by twhipple
[B]I hope the meet on Deck 7 we're talking about is a DISmeet rather than a NJ meet. I know there are a lot of you from NJ but the rest of us would like to join in too ;)

Of course we include non NJ people.Jeez I encourage it. The deck is 7 aft.It is a wonderful spot to get pictures of the sunset. Shall we make it a "open house" between 5-6. I can't wait to put names with the faces.
We are Jim 35 Toni 33 Kyra 8 almost 9 Kayla 7 almost 8 and James 18 mos.
58 days I can't believe it. I am so psyched.

[dis4me]

Oh Yeah thanks bronco joe for the link. I haven't seen most of them. I love whenthere is a good movie at 10pm

[dis4me]

Strasfamily we don't have our cabin number yer either. We are also waitlisted for main seating which I am starting to think I can care less about. We'll see what happens. No upgrades yet. THe ship is sold out of cat 6 and above according to friends who tried to book.

[Masonpips]

Wow, just read that someone on the 10/11 cruise got their docs!

That is the first one after drydock right? I would think with drydock and 2 weeks "off", they would be running ahead, but they're 6 weeks out. I can't believe we'll see the docs SOON!

WOOOOO HOOOOOO!!

[twhipple]

dis4me (Toni), I was just kidding about the NJ meet. mrspat2 said that before and I thought it was cute since there are so many of you NJers on board :p

Why don't we do lime green ribbons since that's what most DISers choose. We do have our room number because we requested a special room. We're Cat 7 and want to be on Deck 7. 5-6 open house on Deck 7 sounds great. Do we want to get any food from room service (cheese and crackers)? Or will we all still be stuffed from the Welcome Aboard Buffet?

[pann]

Just wanted to add our names
Ann & Paul (40's) Stephanie (14) Maryssa (8)
We are also on deck 7.
We just faxed our excursions in yesterday & within 1 hour already got a confirmation!! I'm impressed.
Can't wait. I feel like a kid again.

[SweetSpot]

Add us too, Tracy (another one), Phil, Drew(13), Shane(11) and Aubrey(8) who is thrilled there are so many girls around her age to meet at the DISmeet. I think deck 7 is a great choice for a meet. We are main seating and will do our best to get there at 5:00. Does anyone remember what time the sail away party is? I remember the safety drill was at 4:00 and then the ship is to sail at 5:00 but don't remember if the party was right after the drill or at 5:00 when the ship was sailing. We are all determined to learn the Cha Cha Slide this year and plan on being in the middle of the dance floor this year. I really don't want to miss the party.

Another thread suggests using Home Depot lime green Disney paint chips as name tags. I don't know how available they are but remember seeing Verandah Man wearing one in his picture from the cruise.

Dis4me:

Thanks for idea to go somewhere after the cruise because we have a no school for several days after the cruise. We decided to head to Universal for the night before we start our drive home.

[grimgrinnin]

Hello everyone!

We are: John(33) and Dede (33).

Just made reservations for our excursions:
The Lagoon Kayaking Tour on St. Marteen, and the Champagne Catamaran Sail and Snorkel on St. Thomas.

Less than 2 months! Wheeeeee!

grim

[dis4me]

Ok I will start the new list.If you want to add your real names you can quote the old list and add on.

Dis4me .... Toni, Jim, Kyra(8almost 9), Kayla(7 almost 8), James 1
Grimgrinnin..... John, Dede
Sweet Spot.....Tracey, Phil, Drew(13),Shane(11), Aubrey(8)
Pann... Ann Paul Stephanie(14) Maryssa (8)
Debralisa... Debbie, Gregg, Ryan (almost 6), Kayla (4 3/4), Kenzie(3), Logan (almost 23 mos)
Masonpips...Debbie, Chris, Mason (6), Lauren (4)
Strasfamily.... Robert, Tracey Sydney (5)
Tagall4 ...Terri, George, Trevor(14 ), Chris( 13 ), Cassidy(8 ) Friends of Tagall4....Andy, Kris, Andrew(12) ,Mathew(9), Marissa (4)
Danamay.... May, Peter, Dana(5)
Mrs Pat... Keith, Diana, Jordon(9), Taylor(7)
Thumpersmom... Kristina, Clark Kyle(7)
CRenz.... Cindy, Julie, Zachary(12), Nathan (10)
lruggiero....Lori, John, Vincent (4) Alyssa (16) Natalie (14)mom, Loretta
twhipple... Tracey, Bill
vacationfinatic...Denise, Chad, Alex (9) & Jacob (5),
vacationfinatic's sister....Andrea, Doug, triplets, (Alexis, Ericka, & Jason - all 5).

[debralisa]

Just got this back from Amber at Dolphin Fantaseas:

Greetings from Anguilla and Antigua!



We currently offer a special cruise ship program and on these days we close out our program to all other guests. All reservations must be made through the cruise ship, sorry but we do not accept any reservations. It is called the Dolphin Fantaseas Encounter. Dolphin Fantaseas has created a mesmerizing environment, where upon your arrival you will be greeted by two enchanting Euclectus Parrots. As you wander though the grounds you will have the opportunity to visit our Red Footed Tortoises, Channel Billed Toucan, Hermit and Soldier Crabs and much more.



The Dolphin Fantaseas Encounter – Cruise Ship

The Dolphin Fantaseas Encounter is more than exciting, more than unique and more than amazing. You will not want to miss this thrilling excursion that combines feeding stingrays, interacting with birds, turtles and of coarse the highlight of the tour; swimming with dolphins.



30 cruise ship guests arrive at Dolphin Fantaseas where they are greeted by the Dolphin Fantaseas staff. The 30 guests are divided up into groups of 10 and guided throughout the excursion to the different activity stations.


For example:


Group 1 will interact with the stingrays (group of 10)


Group 2 will interact with a variety of animal such as the parrots, and turtles (group of 10)


Group 3 will SWIM with the dolphins! The group of 10 is broken

down into two groups of 5. All guests are provided with a life vest, and masks.


We have had many non-swimmers participate in the program and have had a wonderful time.


All groups rotate


Because of the high demand, we highly recommend that you make reservations for the dolphin and stingray programs in advance. We close out all of our programs on these day’s to provide a special program for Disney’s passengers.

We do not take any reservations directly, all reservations must be made through Disney.





So it looks like the only way to schedule a dolphin swim is through Disney for that Tuesday..ARGH!! I guess I will be calling the Disney special services/excursion number later tonight and keeping my fingers crossed they still have space. DH really had no desire to do a beach trip on St. Maarten, but that is included in the swim through Disney Cruise. I just hope my DD (4 1/2) won't be too heartbroken that she won't be able to do it this year, but she can observe.

Debbie

[savsawmom]

Dis4me .... Toni, Jim, Kyra(8almost 9), Kayla(7 almost 8), James 1
Grimgrinnin..... John, Dede
Sweet Spot.....Tracey, Phil, Drew(13),Shane(11), Aubrey(8)
Pann... Ann Paul Stephanie(14) Maryssa (8)
Debralisa... Debbie, Gregg, Ryan (almost 6), Kayla (4 3/4), Kenzie(3), Logan (almost 23 mos)
Masonpips...Debbie, Chris, Mason (6), Lauren (4)
Savsawmom. . . Theresa, Doug, Savannah (6), Sawyer (3)
Strasfamily.... Robert, Tracey Sydney (5)
Tagall4 ...Terri, George, Trevor(14 ), Chris( 13 ), Cassidy(8 ) Friends of Tagall4....Andy, Kris, Andrew(12) ,Mathew(9), Marissa (4)
Danamay.... May, Peter, Dana(5)
Mrs Pat... Keith, Diana, Jordon(9), Taylor(7)
Thumpersmom... Kristina, Clark Kyle(7)
CRenz.... Cindy, Julie, Zachary(12), Nathan (10)
lruggiero....Lori, John, Vincent (4) Alyssa (16) Natalie (14)mom, Loretta
twhipple... Tracey, Bill

[twhipple]

Debbie-

That's a bummer. I guess DH and I will not be doing the dolphin swim. I do want to do some shopping at Marigot and it will not be possible doing the dolphins with Disney. Oh well. Maybe we'll do it next year on Antigua (planning to be on the 10/2 Magic). Sounds like fun though!

Tracy

[vacationfinatic]

Hello everyone.

We are Denise(38) Chad(39) Alex (9) & Jacob (5), we will be traveling with my sister (Andrea) and her husband (Doug) and their triplets, (Alexis, Ericka, & Jason - all 5). I can't wait.

We booked the Butterfly tour in St. Martin and we're doing our own thing to Coral World in St. Thomas.

Only 58 days, I'm so excited!!!!!!:bounce: :Pinkbounc

[strasfamily]

Hi Denise,

Can you give me more info on Coral World? I haven't seen reference to that anywhere else. I am determined to get my excursions booked this weekend! I think we are leaning towards the Sea and See Island tour in St. Maarten, kayaking in Castaway Cay, but not sure what we want to do in St. Thomas.

Tracey

[dis4me]

Hi all we are planning on doing our own thing on St Thomas as well. I would like to do Coral World but want to get in at leeast one beach day. If the weather is nice at St Martin We will do Great Bay Beach then Coral world in st thomas. If weather is not good for the beach in St MArteen then we will do Megan's Bay in St Thomas.

[Masonpips]

I am so excited about the number of 5 year olds. My DS turns 6 on 10/19 so he'll be just over 5 and he LOVED the fact last year that I could tell him the other kid's names prior to the cruise. He occasionally brings up Adam/Emily from last year's cruise.

It makes it so nice for them in the clubs too - they see some familiar faces (esp. if we all do the DISmeet on 7 first)

[vacationfinatic]

Hi Tracey,

Coral World is a Marine Prk and Underwater Observatory on St. Thomas, right next to Cokki Beach. So afterwards you can walk next door and enjoy the beach. I think there is an excursion to Coral World, but it's cheaper I heard, if you go on your own. Their web site is www.coralworldvi.com. They even have a coupon for money off the admisson fee. I'm a coupon nut. Anything to save money so I can go on more vacations. Just ask my husband.

Hope this information helps.

Denise

[CRenze]

Thanks dis4me for keeping the list up. I'm sure I speak for eveyone here...it's appreciated!! Now I can't wait to actually print it out, probably about a week before we go. Can you believe it, it won't be long now!! WOOHOO!

Cindy
:wave:

[dis4me]

Your welcome Cindy.
Denise thanks for that website and link for the coupon. Withthe coupon it is way cheaper than Disney's $39 a person. We will definately do it on our own. Does anyone know if there is a fee to get on Coki Beach after Coral world?

[strasfamily]

Thanks for the info on Coral World. That is definitely a possibility for us.

I got a nice surprise in the mail today. I was having problems with my reservation and trying to get an overcharge cleared up. I got my new receipt from my TA today, and they upgraded me for free from a category 11 to a category 9, as well as clearing up the overcharge! When I called a couple of weeks ago to see how much the upgrade would be, it was $600. So I am happy to know my TA made things right - and we got an oceanview room! We will be in 2088 - looks like the middle of the ship with no cabins across the hall. I wonder what is across the hall?

Tracey

[Masonpips]

Tracey!

You'll be right down the hall from us! We're in 2106. I know the laundry room is somewhere inbetween 2101 and 2085 (the inside cabins) so it's close to you, but I think it's directly across from 2096 for some reason. If search is working you could find out for sure.

Updated List with Room Numbers
Dis4me .... Toni, Jim, Kyra(8almost 9), Kayla(7 almost 8), James 1
Grimgrinnin..... John, Dede
Sweet Spot.....Tracey, Phil, Drew(13),Shane(11), Aubrey(8)
Pann... Ann Paul Stephanie(14) Maryssa (8)
Debralisa... Debbie, Gregg, Ryan (almost 6), Kayla (4 3/4), Kenzie(3), Logan (almost 23 mos)
2106: Masonpips...Debbie, Chris, Mason (6), Lauren (4)
2606: Savsawmom. . . Theresa, Doug, Savannah (6), Sawyer (3)
Strasfamily.... Robert, Tracey Sydney (5)
Tagall4 ...Terri, George, Trevor(14 ), Chris( 13 ), Cassidy(8 ) Friends of Tagall4....Andy, Kris, Andrew(12) ,Mathew(9), Marissa (4)
Danamay.... May, Peter, Dana(5)
Mrs Pat... Keith, Diana, Jordon(9), Taylor(7)
Thumpersmom... Kristina, Clark Kyle(7)
CRenz.... Cindy, Julie, Zachary(12), Nathan (10)
lruggiero....Lori, John, Vincent (4) Alyssa (16) Natalie (14)mom, Loretta
2088: twhipple... Tracey, Bill

[dis4me]

Tracey that's great news. No room number for us we are in a cat 4 so we will be on deck 8. Anyone else?

[twhipple]

Debbie-

Wrong Tracy! Strasfamily is in 2088, Bill and I are in 7628.

Are we doing lime green Mickey paint swatches?

Tracy

[Masonpips]

Updated List with Room Numbers
Deck 8: Dis4me .... Toni, Jim, Kyra(8almost 9), Kayla(7 almost 8), James 1
Grimgrinnin..... John, Dede
Sweet Spot.....Tracey, Phil, Drew(13),Shane(11), Aubrey(8)
Pann... Ann Paul Stephanie(14) Maryssa (8)
Debralisa... Debbie, Gregg, Ryan (almost 6), Kayla (4 3/4), Kenzie(3), Logan (almost 23 mos)
2106: Masonpips...Debbie, Chris, Mason (6), Lauren (4)
2606: Savsawmom. . . Theresa, Doug, Savannah (6), Sawyer (3)
2088: Strasfamily.... Robert, Tracey Sydney (5)
Tagall4 ...Terri, George, Trevor(14 ), Chris( 13 ), Cassidy(8 ) Friends of Tagall4....Andy, Kris, Andrew(12) ,Mathew(9), Marissa (4)
Danamay.... May, Peter, Dana(5)
Mrs Pat... Keith, Diana, Jordon(9), Taylor(7)
Thumpersmom... Kristina, Clark Kyle(7)
CRenz.... Cindy, Julie, Zachary(12), Nathan (10)
lruggiero....Lori, John, Vincent (4) Alyssa (16) Natalie (14)mom, Loretta
7628: twhipple... Tracey, Bill

[strasfamily]

Wow - I didn't realize we had so many Tracey's!

I just looked in the Passporter for our cabin #, and we are listed as one of the noisey cabins! Oh well, at least we will have an ocean view - I am still happy about that.

Tracey (strasfamily)

[vacationfinatic]

Originally posted by Masonpips
Updated List with Room Numbers
Deck 8: Dis4me .... Toni, Jim, Kyra(8almost 9), Kayla(7 almost 8), James 1
Grimgrinnin..... John, Dede
Sweet Spot.....Tracey, Phil, Drew(13),Shane(11), Aubrey(8)
Pann... Ann Paul Stephanie(14) Maryssa (8)
Debralisa... Debbie, Gregg, Ryan (almost 6), Kayla (4 3/4), Kenzie(3), Logan (almost 23 mos)
2106: Masonpips...Debbie, Chris, Mason (6), Lauren (4)
2606: Savsawmom. . . Theresa, Doug, Savannah (6), Sawyer (3)
2088: Strasfamily.... Robert, Tracey Sydney (5)
Tagall4 ...Terri, George, Trevor(14 ), Chris( 13 ), Cassidy(8 ) Friends of Tagall4....Andy, Kris, Andrew(12) ,Mathew(9), Marissa (4)
Danamay.... May, Peter, Dana(5)
Mrs Pat... Keith, Diana, Jordon(9), Taylor(7)
Thumpersmom... Kristina, Clark Kyle(7)
CRenz.... Cindy, Julie, Zachary(12), Nathan (10)
lruggiero....Lori, John, Vincent (4) Alyssa (16) Natalie (14)mom, Loretta
7628: twhipple... Tracey, Bill
Vacationfinatic - Room 7500, Denise, Chad, Alex (9) & Jacob (5)
traveling w/sisters family Andrea, Doug, Alexis (5), Ericka (5), and Jason (5).

[danamay]

Hello everyone,

We might be interested in going to Coral World by ourselves. Do anyone know the best way to get there, e.g. Taxi, ferry etc.?

We also have a 5 years old. I think she will have a blast with all the 5-6-7 years olds onboard. We have late seating for dinner, main seating was full when we booked last week. I hope DD will make it to 0830 for dinner.

We will be staying in the Orlando Airport Marriott and will be taking the DCL bus the next day. Anyone staying in the Marriott on Halloween night? My daughter is upset that she does not get to trick or treat and unfortunately our flight does not get into Orlando until 0830 that night so I don't think we will have time for a trick or treat event at the Marriott.

Looking forward to meet everyone.

May

[danamay]

Hello everyone,

We might be interested in going to Coral World by ourselves. Do anyone know the best way to get there, e.g. Taxi, ferry etc.?

We also have a 5 years old. I think she will have a blast with all the 5-6-7 years olds onboard. We have late seating for dinner, main seating was full when we booked last week. I hope DD will make it to 0830 for dinner.

We will be staying in the Orlando Airport Marriott and will be taking the DCL bus the next day. Anyone staying in the Marriott on Halloween night? My daughter is upset that she does not get to trick or treat and unfortunately our flight does not get into Orlando until 0830 that night so I don't think we will have time for a trick or treat event at the Marriott.

Looking forward to meet everyone.

May

[debralisa]

We are staying in the Orlando Airport Hyatt, and will also be getting in late (somewhere around 10:30pm ish)

I think the Disney lime green ribbons sound good.

Masonpips: Thanks for keeping such a great list!! We are in 8516.

Debbie

[Masonpips]

Updated List with Room Numbers (From the top of the ship on down):

8xxx: Dis4me .... Toni, Jim, Kyra(8almost 9), Kayla(7 almost 8), James 1
8516: Debralisa... Debbie, Gregg, Ryan (almost 6), Kayla (4 3/4), Kenzie(3), Logan (almost 23 mos)

7628: twhipple... Tracey, Bill
7500: Vacationfinatic... Denise, Chad, Alex (9) & Jacob (5)
7xxx: Vacationfinatic sisters family Andrea, Doug, Alexis (5), Ericka (5), and Jason (5)

2606: Savsawmom. . . Theresa, Doug, Savannah (6), Sawyer (3)
2106: Masonpips...Debbie, Chris, Mason (6), Lauren (4)
2088: Strasfamily.... Robert, Tracey Sydney (5)

Grimgrinnin..... John, Dede
Sweet Spot.....Tracey, Phil, Drew(13),Shane(11), Aubrey(8)
Pann... Ann Paul Stephanie(14) Maryssa (8)
Tagall4 ...Terri, George, Trevor(14 ), Chris( 13 ), Cassidy(8 ) Friends of Tagall4....Andy, Kris, Andrew(12) ,Mathew(9), Marissa (4)
Danamay.... May, Peter, Dana(5)
Mrs Pat... Keith, Diana, Jordon(9), Taylor(7)
Thumpersmom... Kristina, Clark Kyle(7)
CRenz.... Cindy, Julie, Zachary(12), Nathan (10)
lruggiero....Lori, John, Vincent (4) Alyssa (16) Natalie (14)mom, Loretta

Anyone else?

yes, it's Friday afternoon and I'm bored..... LOL

[tagall4]

hEY EVERYONE. HOPE EVERYONE IS ENJOYING THEIR WEEKEND. IT'S A BEAUTY HERE IN JERSEY.

REAL QUICK: WE'RE IN CABIN 8076. OUR FRIENDS ARE ON DECK 8 AS WELL BUT I'M NOT SURE OF THEIR NUMBER. I'LL GET BACK TO YOU ON THEM. ATLEAST WE'LL KNOW SOME NEIGHBBORS.

WE'RE ALSO IN THE HYATT FRIDAY NITE AND OUR PLANE GETS IN ABOUT 10:30 AS WELL. DEBRALISA-ARE YOU FYING FROM PHILLY?WE ARE. LOVE TO MEET PEOPLE ON THE PLANE...IT WOULD BE GREAT.

MASONIPS, THANK YOU FROM US AS WELL, FOR KEEPING THE LIST GOING.

[Bronco Joe]

Originally posted by dis4me
Hey all I just bought our tickets to MNSSHP on Halloween night.I realize it will be very crowded but since we usually miss Halloween by a few days we figured we would take advantage. Sorry that we will miss the trick or treat at the Radison though It sounds like alot of fun.
Is any one else going to MNSSHP on 10/31?

We are thinking about changing our plans to fly in Thursday and hit MNSSHP on 10/30 then do Universal Studios on Friday.

(We started figuring in gas, oil change, meals on the road, not to mention 19 hours in the van both ways, and we are thinking it isn't too much more to fly if we get a good deal on tickets... Anyone else have an opinion on this?)

Has anyone else done MNSSHP on 10/30 (or some other Thursday night) and have an idea of how crowded it is?

[Bronco Joe]

Originally posted by dis4me
Dis4me .... Toni, Jim, Kyra(8almost 9), Kayla(7 almost 8), James 1
Grimgrinnin..... John, Dede
Sweet Spot.....Tracey, Phil, Drew(13),Shane(11), Aubrey(8)
Pann... Ann Paul Stephanie(14) Maryssa (8)
Debralisa... Debbie, Gregg, Ryan (almost 6), Kayla (4 3/4), Kenzie(3), Logan (almost 23 mos)
Masonpips...Debbie, Chris, Mason (6), Lauren (4)
Strasfamily.... Robert, Tracey Sydney (5)
Tagall4 ...Terri, George, Trevor(14 ), Chris( 13 ), Cassidy(8 ) Friends of Tagall4....Andy, Kris, Andrew(12) ,Mathew(9), Marissa (4)
Danamay.... May, Peter, Dana(5)
Mrs Pat... Keith, Diana, Jordon(9), Taylor(7)
Thumpersmom... Kristina, Clark Kyle(7)
CRenz.... Cindy, Julie, Zachary(12), Nathan (10)
lruggiero....Lori, John, Vincent (4) Alyssa (16) Natalie (14)mom, Loretta
twhipple... Tracey, Bill
vacationfinatic...Denise, Chad, Alex (9) & Jacob (5),
vacationfinatic's sister....Andrea, Doug, triplets, (Alexis, Ericka, & Jason - all 5).

Bronco Joe - Joe, Deanna, Jay (12), and Alexandra (8) [also known as Alex, "The Al-inator", and "Big Al."]

http://www.semifero.com/wet%20jay%20and%20alex.jpg

Jay and Alex after a water ride at Elitch's in Denver.

We don't have a room assignment yet, as far as I know. We also have the late seating, and we reserved our trip 4 or 5 months back...

[keithbpatterson]

Keith Diana Jordan (9) and Taylor (7) are in room 7062. We have the late seating for dinner also. We are also going to Coral World and then to the beach (Coki?) next to it while on St. Thomas. :earsboy:

[Masonpips]

8516: Debralisa... Debbie, Gregg, Ryan (almost 6), Kayla (4 3/4), Kenzie(3), Logan (almost 23 mos)
8076: Tagall4 ...Terri, George, Trevor(14 ), Chris( 13 ), Cassidy(8 )
8xxx: Friends of Tagall4....Andy, Kris, Andrew(12) ,Mathew(9), Marissa (4)
8xxx: Dis4me .... Toni, Jim, Kyra(8almost 9), Kayla(7 almost 8), James 1

7628: twhipple... Tracey, Bill
7500: Vacationfinatic... Denise, Chad, Alex (9) & Jacob (5)
7062: mrspat2/keithbpatterson..... Keith, Diana, Jordan (9), Taylor (7)
7xxx: Vacationfinatic sisters family Andrea, Doug, Alexis (5), Ericka (5), and Jason (5)

2606: Savsawmom. . . Theresa, Doug, Savannah (6), Sawyer (3)
2106: Masonpips...Debbie, Chris, Mason (6), Lauren (4)
2088: Strasfamily.... Robert, Tracey Sydney (5)

Grimgrinnin..... John, Dede
Sweet Spot.....Tracey, Phil, Drew(13),Shane(11), Aubrey(8)
Pann... Ann Paul Stephanie(14) Maryssa (8)
Danamay.... May, Peter, Dana(5)
Mrs Pat... Keith, Diana, Jordon(9), Taylor(7)
Thumpersmom... Kristina, Clark Kyle(7)
CRenz.... Cindy, Julie, Zachary(12), Nathan (10)
lruggiero....Lori, John, Vincent (4) Alyssa (16) Natalie (14)mom, Loretta

Waiting for room assignments:
Bronco Joe - Joe, Deanna, Jay (12), and Alexandra (8);

[mrspat2]

We are in 7062

[debralisa]

Originally posted by tagall4
WE'RE ALSO IN THE HYATT FRIDAY NITE AND OUR PLANE GETS IN ABOUT 10:30 AS WELL. DEBRALISA-ARE YOU FYING FROM PHILLY?WE ARE. LOVE TO MEET PEOPLE ON THE PLANE...IT WOULD BE GREAT.


We are actually flying out of Newark that evening. But I can't to meet you folks!! Maybe we can hook up at the hotel for a little bit and give the kiddos a mini T or T.

Debbie

[dis4me]

Bronco joe I have heard that 10/30 is mosre crowded than earlier dates but of course less crowded then Halloween. The best part about 10/30 is that the local children have school Thursday and Friday so I would think many of them won't be there. We had no choice so we picked Halloween.

[dairyou]

We are late signing up, but the four of us from California will be joining you!

DH Keith (41)
Me Deb (40)
DS Danny (11)
DS Jordan (10)

Counting down the days!

Deb

[Masonpips]

Welcome dairyou! Do you have a room assignment yet?

We're having a DIS-board meet between 5-6 on Saturday (come/go as you please) on Deck 7 aft (secret deck).

A bunch of us are also at the Radisson the night before and I think we'll try to get together (maybe a little Halloween fun for the kids)

And we now have 3 Deb/Debbie/Debby's so we're rivaling the Tracey/Tracy group!

[dairyou]

Hi,

Thanks for the welcome!

We will be at WDW the week before the cruise. (Have to make the most of our trip from the west coast).

I don't know our room number yet. I'm still hoping for upgrades :)

Deb

[tagall4]

bronco joe - the kids look great. can't wait to have my kids meet them... Chris(12) and Cassidy (8) also.

debralisa - what do you have in mind for friday nite? my guys are a little older but your guys might be wiped out. What kind of "T" r u talking about? let me know? definitely interested!!!!!

who's got the official counter? are we at 50 yet?

[dis4me]

I think we are at 52 days.
Is anyone doing parasailing? I really want to do it but I am nervous. My dh won't go so i am trying to find someone to keep me from chickening out.
Are we setting the walking time for 8 or9 am? We should pick a spot on deck four to meet atthis way if anyone shows up late we can pick them up as we go around.

[dis4me]

Welcome Dairyou and family. Are you doing the MNSSHP while you are in WDW. We are flying in on Oct 28th but we are staying with family in Orlando.
Bronco Joe did you book your tickets?/

[Bronco Joe]

Originally posted by dis4me
Bronco Joe did you book your tickets?/

Not yet. We still have to see about getting air tix. If we can swing it we will, but it may be a bit of a last minute decision. Only problem is we could end up missing out all together on MNSSHP... We'll see - I still need to get tuxes for me and the DS, too. It seems like just yesterday I was saying, "I've got MONTHS before we have to leave - plenty of time!!!" I can't wait!

[lruggiero]

Tracy (SweetSpot) We are heading over to Universal too after the cruise, where are you staying? We are staying at the Royal Pacific Resort. We are skipping breakfast on departure day and getting out as soon as we can. The hotel said we could just drop off our luggage and go...

Let me know where you are staying

Also, we are on deck 6 but I forgot the numbers. Myself and husband have a cat 6 and my mom and nieces have a cat 11 directly across the hall

Will update with the numbers

[Bronco Joe]

Originally posted by Masonpips
Waiting for room assignments:
Bronco Joe - Joe, Deanna, Jay (12), and Alexandra (8);

I called the Castaway Club yesterday and still no cabin assignment. Should I be worried?