August 7, 2004 Magic...who's going?

[gometros]

We did WDW before the cruise and I have a confession to make. I couldn't wait for the four days to go by so our cruise can start. WDW is a great experience, but it is also a very TIRING experience. The cruise, on the other hand, is sheer relaxation and pampering.

[wendym]

Welcome wonderlandaddict!
You will love the cruise, like everyone says it so relaxing while at the same time there is so much to do.
Wendy

[jeanneg]

I'm so glad you finally found us! Now all you have to do is tell us your and your hubby's name so we don't have to keep typing in your screen name! Also, what are your cabin #'s and do you have early or late seating. If you go to the very first posting on this thread you'll be able to access Sandy's list and find out the entire scoop about us. Just for the record, we'll be sailing with a 20 yr-old daughter as well.
Wendy: glad everything worked out with the credit. I didn't have any success with my "other" post, so I'll just have to go it alone!!!! If I'm able to pull Adam, my oder son, from all his activities I might end up with a really awesome companion, but right now he expects to be very busy every weekend. Exactly what is the airfare from Scotland to LA.......I may send you a little something and you can put Doreen on a flight for me, since I know you'll be busy teaching!
Sandy: I was just looking at your list and we really have to convince Judy to switch to late seating......wouldn't it be something if we could get all the tables close together. None of us turn in much before 1am anyway, so it's not right before bedtime.
Shelley: How's Courtney making out with her arm?
Denise: Haven't heard from you in a bit.....hope all is well.....

All this 9-11 stuff that they're airing today is making me very sad, and I just want to say how much I really love and appreciate all you "old" friends and I look forward to meeting all the new ones. Life is so tenuous, and we're all so very lucky to have had this wonderful experience together. Cherish the moments........

[mom2missmous]

Just wanted to say a quick hello to all our fellow cruisers out there! The first couple weeks of school have been more hectic than usual (esp. my grad course- yuck) so I haven't had much time for the boards boo-hoo! Hopefully things will settle down so I can "play" more! I know our little group would love to meet up with you all on board if we can arrange it!

[eye R.N.]

This is Chelsea (epcotgrl1)

Wendy guess what..... there is going to be another party at our table this year. Its my momys birthday on the 10.... it is nothing exicting but we get to PARTY! i cant wait. You are going to be at out table agian right? i hope so. I am gonna save up to buy that neckless that i saw the last time!

Is there going to be anyone 18 and over going from here?

[eye R.N.]

Hi All,

Welcome momtomissmous and wonderlandaddict families. We are going to have such a great time. We too will have a 19 year old daughter (Thanks Chelsea for telling everyone about my birthday, if you tell my age, your toast!!!) and a 15 yr old son at cruise time. As for your question, we have done a couple of days at WDW after the cruise but this year I think most of my family is Disney'ed out. They all much prefer the cruise.

All is well here Jeanne, thanks for asking. I plead momtomissmous excuse, I'm only taking three credits and it's not a grad course so I can just picture how busy that can be. I am also trying to spend some time with my parents while they are still in Maryland. They will head back to Flordia with the great snow bird migration some time next month.

Shelly, don't discount Old Key West quite yet. We really liked it when we stayed there. In fact, if I can get around to selling our current time share, I am really thinking about the DVC. We loved the old Disney Institute and would like to own something there.

[wonderlandaddict]

My name is Benita and my husband is Leslie. We received our documents today from mousesavers and our rooms are 6581 and 6583. We have the early dinner seating.

[sbennett]

Denise:
We like OKW but prefer Boardwalk because it's sooo much easier to get around the parks from there. Plus there's more to do right there.
I wish we could switch our home points to Boardwalk from OKW but I don't think you can and I'm pretty sure Boardwalk's been sold out anyway.
Just got the confirmation from DVC that we have 3 nites at OKW but can try to exchange after 01/06/04 for Boardwalk.


Corey's doing well in HS....more challenging for him so he's busy and not with the same kids as last year...maybe this will be a good year for him and he won't have to go to Kid's Peace. He's just too smart so he gets done with his work quickly then that's when he gets into trouble!!

[gometros]

Shelley - the solution is easy. Give him more work :)

I agree with Denise. We have points in OKW and Boardwalk. We like them both equally for the different qualities they represent. OKW is much quieter, being away from the parks, and Boardwalk is great for the reason you said, it's so close to EPCOT and MGM and some pretty good restaurants. It all depends on where we intend to spend most of our time.

Jeanne - I'm afraid the late seating is a lost cause. We have been working on Judy and cannot convince her. We told her to get the damn operation already to fix that reflux problem and stop driving us crazy :) At least it now looks like there's another family that likes the early seating.

[wendym]

Hi Benita and welcome back mom2missmous
Good luck to all of you doing courses - you have my sympathy as I am struggling myself and I have no family to look after. Shelley I am delighted that Corey is coping well.
Chelsea - can't wait to see your necklace! As for your birthday Denise, would we do anything?!!
Jeanne, if I could swing it I would send Mum over to meet you - just not in the budget at the moment! Anyway I would be so jealous at the fun you would have!!
We too found Sept 11th difficult so can imagine what it was like for you all there.
Have a good weekend all.
Wendy

[jeanneg]

Aw gee, Shelley, staying at OKW won't be all bad......you'll have us for company! As we haven't done the parks since Thanksgiving last year, we thought we'd stay at OKW for a few days and catch up with all the new attractions. I love the spaciousness of OKW and John really loves the tranquility of it. In fact, he prefers hanging out there and playing golf to going to the parks. We're planning to arrive around noon on Wed, spend 2 nights there and then head over to the Radisson Friday evening. On the way down, we'll make a short detour to Dixie Crossings and get our rock shrimp! If anyone is interested in joining us, maybe we can coordinate a time to meet.
Wow, Denise, you have been busy......what course are you taking? Chelsea, it seems like a whole bunch of the kids will be aging up. Jason will also be 19 when we sail again. I hope he enjoys it more this time around. I don't think he felt like he belonged in either group last time and Jen felt somewhat obligated to hang with him.

[eye R.N.]

Chelsea agian!

Mommy would i ever tell your age to anyone? no.... you can't even remember how old you are!

Wendy I cant wait to see me in my neckless... and we have to think of something to do to mommy! hehe... i got a few ideas... i shall PM them to you one day! tell Nan I said hi

And just to let everyone know i am only going to be 18 on this cruise. But i dont know what my mom has in mind... maybe she will take me on a cuise when i am 19.... but the next one i know after this is thier 25 annaveristy. cant wait for that!

[DVCLady]

You are right down the hall from us. We have stateroom #6534.

[wendym]

Chelsea
Your spelling is worse than mine!!
Nan says hi back to you - I look forward to your ideas!
Jeanne - yet to work out our plans but I am sure we will be able to meet before hand!
Oh and finally manged to find our stateroom number, it is 7567.
Wendy

[eye R.N.]

Right now we have a cat 8 and a cat 10 booked on the cruise with the ressie transferred to dreams. What do you think will happen to the $400 stateroom credit if we decide to change to two cat 9's?

I am starting to think that there may be "bathroom issues" in the kids cabin.

Wendy, Chelsea can no longer blame her typing skills for her bad spelling, she is taking typing this semister.

As for me I am taking Alternate Dispute Resolution. Should come in handy around my house.:p

Chelsea, sorry I messed up on your age, you've just been acting lots older lately. But do the math, you will be 19 on the silver anniversary cruise. Thanks for not outing my age, I love you princess.

[wendym]

Hi Denise
I would think they would transfer the $400 across - you are still having the same number of rooms and they transfer the credit across if people change dates. I can understand the "bathroom issues". Try 4 kids and my parents in a 2 bedroom house with 1 bathroom - and that was before christmas when you could add in at least 3 extra adults. But the best was the year when my sister, husband and baby came back from South Africa and stayed with us for a year till they could get a house!
I think I need tips from you on the Alternate Dispute Resolution - our department are crazy this term with the two bosses not speaking to each other and leaving all the work to the rest of us.
Must get back to my essay - working on my strengths and weaknesses at the moment!
Wendy

[jeanneg]

Denise, here's what DCL told me just the other day: As long as you keep the same reservation #, the credit is protected. You can make any changes you want......date of sailing, cabin size, add or drop a person..... and it's all good. Now, if you add another cabin to your itinerary (rather than just change it), that cabin gets a new reservation # and the credit wouldn't apply. Also, your credit is safe, but the rate schedule you received when you booked on the ship is not. In other words, if you book today, you'll get today's best rate which should still be pretty good, but may not be as good as the ones we were originally offered. Hope that helps......My advice would be that if you feel you'd be more comfortable in 2 category 9's, you should make the change as soon as possible.
Hmmmm, Alternate Dispute Resolution......we could definitely use that around this house!

[eye R.N.]

Just follow isabels current track. If it goes as predicted in will be just about in my front yard on friday monring.

Guess I should rethink that trip to the ocean I was planning for friday.

[wendym]

Denise
We will be praying that it changes track.
Wendy

[gometros]

Denise - I know you're near the coast, but what I heard this morning was that it was going to hit North Carolina the hardest (assuming it stays on its current track).. Jeanee, how close are you to the coast and are you affected?

Side note: In the report I saw on the NBC weeked show this morning, they talked about how two of the cruise ships left Port Canaveral this morning (I assume it was taped from last night, meaning the Magic) and showed the Wonder in the background.

[sbennett]

Let's hope it doesn't track too far north .....Long Island doesn't need a hurricane either!! Jay's folks live near the water and if it gets too bad, it'll be in their front yard. My brother & sister-in-law live in NC in Edenton and they are right on the water...Albemarle Bay...hope their bulkhead is strong!!
The trustees at church were just talking about possibly having to board up the Tiffany stained glass window we just had cleaned and re-leaded for $175,000. ugh!!! We lost the top of our steeple in the hurricane of 1938.


How is Nate Page?....did they have a smooth sailing weather wise?

[wendym]

Hoping the hurricane avoids everybody!
I think Nate Page and his family had a truely magical cruise - this link should give you more details. They got a private bridge tour with a very special visitor!
http://disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=4165530#post4165530
Wendy

[jeanneg]

Thanks everyone for your concerns.....I think we'll be OK. Raleigh is about 2 hours from the coast, so it will probably be more of an inconvenience in this area than it will be a threat. If the storm hits, I'm predicting we'll lose power (a common occurence in Raleigh) so I'm all ready with flashlights, batteries, etc. After our last major power outage, I purchased a B/W battery-powered TV at Target for $19.95. It will be interesting to see how well it works! In any event, if you don't hear from me towards the end of this week, it probably means the lights are off here. From the sound of things, it appears like Denise and Shelley have more to worry about in that they're both closer to the shoreline.

[sbennett]

Well when you live on eastern LI one can't help but be near water. If you look at a picture of LI, it's shaped like a fish, we're on the tail...the bottom tail...almost at the end!!! about 16 miles from the end of the tail. So far NOAA looks like it's going to hit NC right near my brother & sister in law....Saying our prayers.
may be a short week for school!!

[gometros]

All I can say is I'm so glad I left the south shore of LI for the inner sanctum of upstate NY. Here's hoping that you guys on the coast weather the storm.

[jeanneg]

to everyone on this thread seeking refuge further inland: Come join us! I did a massive food shop this morning and in addition to all the essential storm items, I purchased another 5-liter "box" of wine (white, like Denise prefers!) and a 12-pack of Michelob Ultra (my new best diet drink!). With that and my new battery-operated TV, who cares if the lights are out!

[eye R.N.]

Right now it's 50-50 wheter my parents will be abandoning Ocean City and coming to us. Or, if the storm comes straight up the Chesapeake, we may be joining them.

Got that cute crank powered radio we got for 1/1/00 out last night. I expect we will lose power too, so if you guys don't hear from me that's probably the reason.

Either way I think I'll take a box a wine:p

[EPCOTgrl1]

mom your suppost to be working.... silly goose! I think that everything will be ok!

[wendym]

I'm coming to join you all!!! A hurricane is sounding better than school at the moment
Will be thinking of you all.
Wendy

[luv2boys]

How about you all come to my house in Memphis. I'm way inland!


Amy

[sbennett]

Well from looking at NOAA radar I think Denise and Jeanne are going to get more than us...as a matter of fact it looks like Sandy's going to get more than us. Seems to be tracking into NC and then up to Canada...Long Island is now out of the "potential" track too! Good thing...I've heard that there's not a generator to be had on LI...no C or D batteries either....not to mention the cost of plywood!! Of course my boss is down in Myrtle Beach at a pastor's conference!!!

[gometros]

Shelley - you might be out of the track, but you know LI is still going to feel the effects. I saw the latest on the news this morning and it looks like it's going to go right over me. Who woulda thunk, being this far inland? As we speak, someone is on my roof, cleaning out the gutters.

Amy - want to give us directions? :teeth:

[jeanneg]

I'm just having a chuckle because I decided to open up the box and put the batteries into my TV. When you remove all the packaging it's not much bigger than Dick Tracy's wrist watch! We're talking a 5-inch diagonal here, folks.........I don't think John is going to be using it to watch any football games!
Otherwise, we should be in pretty good shape. Nothing else to do but sit and wait.

[eye R.N.]

I have visions of John trying to see the game on a something half the size of my computer screen.

Oh well, time to get the lawn furniture in and hope for the best. We'll see how well all that work Andy did on the basement is going to hold out.

Thanks Sandy, I completely forgot about the gutters.:eek:

[sbennett]

Can't you just picture John wearing his operating glasses to watch the tv?
Best of Luck to everyone waiting for izzy.
The waves are already huge out here. The church I work at is about 1.3 miles from the ocean and when you go outside you can hear the waves crashing. They tell me back in 1938 they had water right down the street in front of the church.
Have they said anything about school closings down south because of the storm??

[DVCLady]

my daughter use to call Disney, Izzy when she was a baby. LOL:teeth:

[gometros]

Originally posted by DVCLady
my daughter use to call Disney, Izzy when she was a baby. LOL:teeth:

It will be interesting to see which packs more of a punch. Metaphorically speaking of course :)

[eye R.N.]

Hi Shelly, The county next to ours is closed tomorrow and friday, of course it stradles the Cheseapeake Bay so they are expecting some really high tides. Several other counties are already considering closing.

[jeanneg]

Several counties near the coast have closed both Thursday and Friday, but no word yet on what's happening here. From the look of things, you'd never know we were expecting a storm -- the sky is a solid blanket of blue right now and the weather is incredibly pleasant. I guess that's what they mean by the calm before the storm. I am hoping they do NOT close the schools here. If they do, the kids will have to make it up on 10/17 which was originally scheduled as a day off for students. Jason has his NYU tour/interview booked for that day. As a senior, there are certain privileges attached to having excellent attendence so we are trying to do all his college business on his days off. If we're lucky, they'll close the schools a little early tomorrow and have a delayed opening on Friday. Our biggest threat down here is not the wind and rain per se, but all the flooding that occurs whenever we have a big storm.

[sbennett]

Just checking to see how everyone is doing so far with the hurricane. So far we just have wind and waves. No rain yet.
Jay's supposed to be having open house at school tonight, haven't heard if they're canceling it or not yet but they are having an emergency faculty meeting after school today. Hope you all fair the storm. God speed!

[gometros]

Looks like the storm will pass west of us and by the time it gets this far inland, it should be just a tropical storm. Towson University, where Sara goes, is closing at noon today and will be closed tomorrow.

[jeanneg]

Wow, I keep losing power and am not able to finish my emails. The brunt of the storm is still about 4hrs. away, but this is pretty bad. And we're not even directly in its path. It's gonna be a long evening

[eye R.N.]

We did keep the surgery center open and finished all our cases. The boss sent everyone who needed to cross a bridge home as soon as possible. Most of the bridges are now closed, so I can't get to my parents even if I wanted to.

I agree with Jeanne, it's going to be a long night. But I do have two bottles of wine (thanks for the idea Jeanne.) and a gas stove so if the lights go out the kids can still be fed.

Talk to you again when I can.

[wendym]

Mum's and my prayers are with you all - we are seeing it on TV and thinking of you all.
Wendy

[gometros]

I hope we hear from Denise and Jeanne soon. It looks like they were the hardest hit. I wonder how Cay and Kim did too, since they're both Maryland residents. Landover isn't as close to the shore, but where is Davidsonville?

Shelley - looks like LI escaped it this time.

We called Sara last night to see how she was making out. You would think she was safe in her room, right? Wrong. She had gone across campus to a friend's room, meaning she'd have to go back outside in the middle of the storm to get back to her room. Kids.

[sbennett]

Denise and Jeanne: (Sandy too)
Hope you're safe and no too much damage. We got NOTHING!! Wind gusts up to 25mph and very little rain. My brother in NC lost their dock, had someone else's dock in their yard, had Albemarle Bay in their pool (some of the bay anyway) and their boat lift got mangled. Haven't been able to get through to them directly but this is 3rd hand information we've gotten.
My SIL spoke with her mother, who spoke with my sister, who called me. Now we're concerned about my niece who lives in WV with her fiance because they're getting floods. (My brother & SIL's oldest daughter - 23 getting married in July)

[jeanneg]

We fared very well in this part of town yesterday. Between 11am and 1pm the power kept going off and on (not flickering but actually going off for maybe 30 seconds to over a minute and then coming right back on. I tried so many times to post but my computer kept shutting down before I had the message half typed! Since I had to reboot each time (having been "improperly" shut off each time prior), I decided it was not worth the risk to my computer and just pulled the plug! It's funny because I had just told Sandy how relatively calm things were and by the time I got to my DISmail, it was like all hell had broken loose! We did very well here -- lost power permanently around 2:30pm but had it back by about 8:15 last evening. Our little TV was a godsend! We thought for sure we were going to miss "Survivor", but at 8pm they resumed regular programming. John and I were huddled so close to the darn thing that we hardly noticed when the lights came back on. We were lucky, however, with no food spoilage and very minimal inconvenience.
I know people close to the shore suffered much more damage and I'm sorry, Shelley, that your family had to experience it firsthand. The one good thing is that as of today, they are reporting no loss of life which, if it holds out to be true, would be quite amazing. I hope Denise is doing alright in her neck of the woods....I remember all the trouble she had with her basement in the past and hope it held up well against the storm. About the wine......we actually ended up not drinking it because I never expected the power to come back so soon and got really paranoid about opening the fridge unnecessarily. Note to self: Next time buy red, and I won't have to refrigerate it at all!

[DVCLady]

its very windy up here in CT. We had a little rain. The sun comes and goes.

[eye R.N.]

The power JUST came back and the first thing I do is get on the computer.

We are fine. All that work Andy did on the basement paid off, it is dry. We have been working all day on the yard getting up the downed limbs and cleaning the gutters of all the green leaves. There are still some downed wires in the neighborhood and the community beach is a real mess but no loss of life or injuries locally.

Shelly, I'm sorry your family got smashed. One of our waterfront neighbors has three boats in the front yard, and no pier left. We are waiting to see about the community pier, it is still underwater. The strangest sight was the port-a-potty floating in the river!


Taylor took some amazing photos I hope I can scan and post them once they are developed. Glad to hear everyone is well and safe.

[DVCLady]

we had power outage for an hour today. I thought it was going to be like the blackout we had during the summer.

[sbennett]

Denise - Glad to hear you're all safe, saw pictures of Annapolis on the news and was wondering how you all made out.
My brother got it worse than originally thought. When they were finally able to venture out, they realized they couldn't even get out of their community via road...only 1 in 10 telephone poles remained standing, house 3 houses away from them was ripped apart by tornado, 3 people were killed in the next community over from them. They probably won't have power for a least a couple of weeks. They had to drive across people's lawns to get out of their community. So they're going to go and stay with their youngest daughter near Elon. Don't know what damage they had at the Car dealership they work at....Edenton Motors. Best part is their house in on the market because they want to build a smaller house on another piece of water front property..guess they can state "This house survived Hurricane Isabel" in their listing!

[jeanneg]

Whew, Denise, I'm so glad everyone there is fine.....I must have seen the same coverage as Shelley showing the horrible conditions in Annapolis. I even got out my map to see precisely where Severna Park was and when I saw how close it was to the water, I was really scared for all of you. When I last checked my computer last night, there was still no word from you and I was very concerned. So tell Andy we're all very thankful you posted when you did! Congrats on your basement staying dry also. Been there, done that and I wouldn't want to do it again!

Gee, Shelley, Edenton really took a pounding. There was lots of coverage on it on our local news. I'm sorry for the property loss but glad everyone is safe. I was a little premature yesterday when I remarked that there was no loss of life. NC lost 3 and I think there were 17 deaths overall, which is really tragic. It really puts things in perspective when something like this happens.

Sandy, how did Sara make out? I have absolutely NO IDEA what yo're talking about.....my kids ALWAYS listen to me!

[wendym]

Denise please tell Andy we are very grateful you went on the computer - we were all worried about you! Shelley, so sorry to hear what happened to your brother. The devastation looks awful.
Wendy

[gometros]

Finally checking in after a busy weekend. I wanted so badly to get on earlier to find out if Denise posted yet. Glad to hear you guys survived. Good MOrning America was showing some of the areas that are still under water in MD, VA and NC. Absolutely incredible what kind of devastation Isabel wrought.

[jeanneg]

Hi guys,
Nothing new to report, but I noticed we had fallen down to page 6 and didn't want us to get buried. How's everybody doing?
Jeanne

[gometros]

For those of you who celebrate Rosh Hashana - a happy and healthy New Year to you all. May this year bring us a year of peace and prosperity.

And many Disney cruises :)

Edit to add: I meant to mention that my wife's boss is going to San Juan at the end of November. Even though they aren't staying in the same area as the port, I will ask them to bring back some info.

[DVCLady]

I just stopped in to say hi! You guys have any idea when DCL will post the shore excursions for San Juan? Its probably too early but, I was just wondering. I'm also wondering how Customs works for those ports when they are both US territories.
Thanks,
Mechelle:bounce: :Pinkbounc :wave:

[jeanneg]

I won't pretend to have all the answers, but i've been to PR several times and may be able to address some of your questions. I've done the rainforest tour and it was interesting but not outstanding. I've also toured El Morro (the big fort you see on all the PR commercials) and found that to be very fascinating. Old San Juan is very quaint and does not seem as impovished as some other Carribean towns. If you plan to do alot of walking, wear sensible shoes because it's somewhat hilly and many of the streets are paved with cobblestones. We have some friends about 45 minutes from San Juan and hope to be able to meet them for lunch if they're able to take the time from work. At the moment we're not planning to do any excursions, but will have to wait and see what they offer and whether or not our friends can meet us. Many of the larger, modern hotels have casinos so that's probably where I'll be heading looking for the nickel slots!
Jen is just dying to have a crack at them, but I've got to assume the legal age for playing there is also 21, so it looks like she'll be out of luck! Which could be a bad thing.....I'd much prefer to give her $20 to blow on the slots than have (sugar)dad take her shopping and end up burning some serious cash!

[EPCOTgrl1]

I'm just too lazy to log out of being Chelsea.


My boss has family in PR. He advised the fort and old town, but I have a hankering to see the rain forest. I do have to find out where he went to bring home souvies. . . he came home with some of the best treats the office has seen in awhile. If I don't bring back some more I may have a mutiny.

BTW Sandy, you poster is on the way, Finally!!!!!!!!!

[jeanneg]

Denise:
Just curious, what kind of treats were they? I just remembered another excursion, but I don't think it's the sort of thing Disney would sponsor and I can't remember how close to San Juan it is. Bacardi has their distillery in PR and they run tours all day. I've always been a sucker for factory tours, so I really loved it. Plus they give the adults free rum drinks and I remember they served some very delicious pina coladas. (but then again, I would remember that, right?)
Oh, and when you mentioned Sandy's poster, you reminded me of something else.......I just saw "Once Upon a Time in Mexico" and Johnny Depp was so hilarious. (A.B. was very hot also, but JD is my man!) There were some parts that were pretty brutal, but I knew they were coming so I didn't look, and overall it was a really fun movie.

[EPCOTgrl1]

They were candies and this powered sugar covered cake thing, with some sort of jelly in the middle. They were to die for.

Does that mean we get good prices on Bacardi in SJ? Andy will need to re-stock his Conk Coller supply :)

BTW did you hear the rumor of JD as Willy Wonka? Now THAT'S a moview I'll want to see.

I really should be doing my college homework.:rolleyes:

[jeanneg]

Hmmm...I don't think I've ever had those, they sound really good. I once bought several boxes of rum balls at the Bacardi factory, but we didn't use them right away, and then when we did, they were hard and not nearly as good as they should have been. Which reminds me, I still have a rum cake from Key West put away somewhere! Yes, the Bacardi there is very cheap and there's also a private reserve blend that you can't buy in the U.S. which is the one we usually bring home. I'm pretty sure you can get all the Bacardi products at a good price in town.
I can't wait for the new Willy Wonka movie.....the one with Gene Wilder has always been a big favorite of ours.

[wendym]

Hi all
Those treats sound gorgeous! I imagine I will be buying a couple of boxes of those for school, not that my colleagues deserve them - to say the last few weeks have been stressful is to put it mildly! However I have this cruise to look forward to. The rum factory sounds good too.
I hope the rumour about the Willy Wonka film is true - he would be excellent in it.
Wendy

[musicalSaranader]

I love Johnny Depp a whole lot, but... replacing Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka??? I just can not picture it. But yeah, he was really great in "Once Upon a Time in Mexico". And that rum factory sounds like a whole lot of fun...;)

[jeanneg]

Hi Sara,
I agree, I can't picture him in that role either. All I know is that he is soooo good at whatever he does, esp. the quirky roles, that I'd be anxious to see how he plays the character. I hope you're having a good semester. Jen just started the hard core swimming practice, so I all I hear from her right now are complaints about being tired! This year the Lehigh family weekend football game is against Towson. (Unfortunately, Jen has an away meet that same weekend so we won't be going up.)

[gometros]

I suspect that if Johnny Depp is in it, it will be a quicrkier version of the orignal.

Denise - I got the poster yesterday. Elana thanks you! (She loves Orlando Bloom).

[sbennett]

Is anyone else following the Nate Page story

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=445789&perpage=15&pagenumber=1

(Hope I did that correctly) His mother would love to get Christmas Cards from everyone..apparently doctors are concerned about weight loss.
Let's all send cards!!

[jeanneg]

Hi Shelley,
For the sake of limiting the amount of time I spend "surfing", I generally only check the main DCL forum once every week or two.
So, in answer to your question, I really have not been following the Nate Page saga all that closely. I will be delighted to send him a Christmas card if you let me know exactly where to send it. You can p.m. me or just send it to my personal email if you think it best not to post his address here. I've seen some of the photos and they just break my heart.....really puts all our trivial concerns into perspective.

[sbennett]

it's been weeks since anyone's posted here....what's up?

We've had a very active couple of weeks. Corey's back in the hospital and will be going to residential therapy as soon as there's an opening. He's severely depressed and very suicidal.
He cut himself again, and then at school he re-opened it again.
He was also doing things to get kids to give him money. Like eating yellow jackets and sticking his head in a garbage can.
to name a few. Please pray for him and us. It's soooo difficult to hear your son say he's better off dead, and nobody would miss him if he was gone...and you wonder if there was something you could have done differently.
Hopefully we'll be able to go on the cruise with you all ... it all depends on how Corey does and how much of this the school and our insurance will cover. We're having a CSE meeting at the school tomorrow..so wish us luck.
Happy Columbus Day!!:grouphug:

[eye R.N.]

I'm so sorry. Hopefully they can adjust medication?

Let me know how the meeting goes. I can't imagion what you must be feeling.

Prayers are on the way.

[gometros]

I guess this is a quiet period as we've gotten over the exhiliration of the cruise and it's a little early to start seriously thinking about the upcoming cruise. Besides, nobody new has joined us recently.

Jay/Shelley - I can't begin to fathom what you guys are going through. PLease keep us informed on how the meeting goes. Our prayers are with you.

(Btw - what does CSE stand for?)

[jeanneg]

My prayers are still with you, Shelley. Please let us know how it all works out. BTW, how are your eyes? I sent you some private info in a personal email last week, but that was when everything was happening with Corey and you may not have seen it. Please don't hesitate to use the number I gave you. Sounds like you guys definitely need a cruise next cruise, so let's not even entertain the thought not being able to make it.

We may even have an additional member of our family joining us. When Adam (my older son in L.A.) found out his favorite sibling was coming along, he said he'd "consider" sailing on the "Rat Ship" with us. Now that we have 2 cabins, there shouldn't be any problem adding him. My only concern is that he graduates AFI in June and we'd like to see him become self-suffient as soon as possible after that. Depending on where he works, he may or may not be able to take vacation time right away. we'll just have to wait and see.

Elana, Elana, you still out there, fellow Clay-buddy? I picked up my CD last night at midnight. The local mall had a huge Clay-fest and people from all over the US made the pilgrimage to his home town. His mom was there signing autographs and they raffled off his famous red shoes for charity. I had a meeting last night so I missed most of the hoopla, but I did manage to get my butt over to the mall at about 11:45 and catch his appearance on Jay Leno which they televised on a super large screen. I dragged John with me, but he could not have been more underwhelmed!

Other than that, I've been busy helping Jason get all his college applications together. I'm so happy this will be the last and final time to go through all this. Sandy will probably appreciate how I feel, but poor Denise and Shelley still have it all in front of them.

How ya doing, Wendy, haven't heard from you in a while......
Ditto to all the "new" fellow cruisers..........

[wendym]

Hi all
Shelley you most certainly have mum's and my prayers. I cannot begin to think of the right thing to say. I have felt a little like Corey and have manged to climb back up again but it isn't easy and I can understand a little of what you are all going through. In situations like this I honestly don't think there is anything that you and Jay could have done differently.
At the moment the cruise seems a long way off but the thought of it is keeping the two of us going.
We are in the midst of doing college applications at school (well I am off for the next 2 weeks but have just been in to do mine) - you all have my sympathy trying to help your children!
Our love to you all.
Wendy and Doreen

[MickeyMouse418]

Jean- You fellow Clay buddy is still here! I admit I've neglected the boards a bit because I've been so overwhelmed with school work and everything else after school. But I did hear about his CD coming out today, and I asked my dad to order it for me so hopefully I will have it soon! ;) By the way, shortly after the cruise this summer, I went to one of the American Idol concerts with a friend and Clay was the star of the show. He got the loudest applause (of course!) and everyone went wild whenever he came out (not so much for Ruben.) By the end, they were completely sold out of Clay merchandise, but there was still plenty Ruben merchandise left. Clay is amazing live or on TV!

[gometros]

Not meaning to get off the cruise discussion, but Clay was on GMA this morning and sang two songs from his CD. He's singing the national anthem at game 1 of the series. Now please remind me, who won American Idol this year?:teeth:

[sbennett]

Thank you all for your continuing prayers for Corey.
The CSE (Committee on Special Education) meeting went well and the school approved the hospital's recommendation for transfer to a residential treatment facility here on Long Island for the time being. Now we play the waiting game for a bed. He'll remain at the hospital until one is free for him. He's gotten more volatile and they've added another medication to his regimen. He broke off the faucet on his sink and threatened the nurse with it yesterday so he's not allowed visitors for 2 days....respite for us too.

Heard Clay this morning too...seems like a really nice guy....who won the contest????? I guess sometimes a "runner up" really is a winner!!!:crazy:

[wendym]

Dear Shelley
Glad things are moving forward for you - you are all constantly in our thoughts. I hope the change in regimen will help.
I finally managed to get our flights booked last night for next summer - rather expensive but it will be worth it to meet up with you all (and all our new friends!) on the cruise. Also ordered our annual passes while we can still get the disney club discount - the $ rate is also rather good at the moment.
Wendy

[sbennett]

As if we didn't have enough going on ..... Kristofer broke his left wrist today and now has a really cool red cast. I'm going to make him a sling to use, Dr. charges $10 for a very uncomfortable (and ugly) sling. Last year he broke his right wrist....this year it's his left. Got a call from the school nurse that he was at recess and came in screaming!! He fell yesterday at cub scouts and we iced it and it seemed better this morning and then bingo he injured it again. I told Courtney we were putting her in a big bubble so she didn't get hurt!!!
We're gonna need this cruise...hope we can make it!

[wendym]

Shelley - you certainly deserve this cruise!!!
Wendy

[sbennett]

Corey's being transferred tomorrow to Sagamore Psychiatric Children's Hospital in Dix Hills, NY. It's kinda' like a holding facility until we can get him into a long-term residential facility. It's a very difficult decision to make but it's the necessary thing that has to be done for his own safety, as well as ours. Please continue to pray for us. We really appreciate it. The hospital really pushed him up on the list for transfer after major problems over the weekend. Hopefully no one else has to go through what we're going through, it's heart-breaking.

[jeanneg]

Gee, Shelley, I'm so sorry for all that you and your family are going through right now. Needless to say, you can count on my prayers. I know your hearts have got to be breaking right now. Let's hope something can be done to make Corey well.

[eye R.N.]

I wish I knew what to say that would help you ease your pain. Know that everyone here has Corey in their prayers.

All our love and support is yours

Denise Andy Chelsea Taylor and Hope.

[gometros]

Shelley - I can't imagine what you and Jay must be going through. We have very close friends who have had to deal with a similar situation. They have a 17-year old daughter who suffers from anorexia and has been in and out of facilites since she was 14. I believe she is now in a facility in Boston. It is so difficult for a parent to see their child suffer. We can only hope that this helps Corey out.

[wendym]

Dear Shelley and Jay
Our prayers and thoughts are constantly with you. Please keep reminding yourselves that you are doing the best thing for Corey and the rest of the family however hard it seems.
Love
Wendy and Doreen

[MinnieMart]

i bet you all are suprised to hear from me! and no, unfortunately we are not going on your cruise. just saying hi! eye rn, i'm glad to hear that something may be done for our 18 to 20 yr olds. we never wrote a letter but i will because by the time we go on this again laura may be 18! we just took 4 of our 8 x 10"s to make a collegege custome frame. we have so many great pics in our album. well alison loves muhlenberg. family wknend is this wk. dana is going to physical therapy 3x wk for his completly ruptured bicep which he had to have surgery fo repair. its his left arm.thank goodness. laura( disneygirl421} is having fun doing the flags squad. and i'm a substitute nuse for any school that calls right now. and... i'm no longer working at the disney store!don't miss working on the wkends. we are now dvc members!!! so to all of you who sailed with us. hope to see you some day! lisa!

[luv2boys]

Shelley,


Our family is thinking of you too.


Hi Lisa, good to hear from you.


Amy

[jeanneg]

Hi Lisa, I'm so glad you're still checking in! Any chance of joining us on the 8/7 sailing? We've all become such a family! I'm so glad Alison is happy at Muhlenberg. Funny little story for you and Dana:
Remember the book I was discussing with you at CC? Well, I never did get the chance to read it back then. However, we had a long car ride up to NYC and Lehigh this past weekend, so I took it to read in the car........HOLY MOLY, what a scandal!!! It's really amazing when you know one of the characters involved! I can't wait to finish it so I can find out how it all turns out.
Congrats on joining DVC.....I know you'll be so glad you did.
Jeanne

[gometros]

Lisa - gret to hear from you. I didn't know your daughter was at Muhlenburg. The son of a friend of ours is there also and he loves it.

Elana is driving me nuts about the Beach Boys concert.

A substitute nuse? Is that in case the main nuse doesn't choke the students enough? :teeth:

And finally, Welcome Home! You'll love DVC! Use those points and join us on the cruise!

Jeanne - are you going to keep us in the
dark? What was the book?

[wendym]

Hi Amy and Lisa
Lovely to "see" you again! Lisa - hope Dana does well with the therapy. Amy, how are the boys doing? I have many fond memories of the wonderful day we spent at Serenity Bay at Castaway Cay. Jeanne - please tell us the name of the book - I am really intrigued.
Wendy

[sbennett]

Just when you think things were bad .....they get worse. Jay's father passed away yesterday. We committed Corey to Sagamore on Wednesday, Jay's mother's birthday, then Thursday morning at 1am we got a phone call from his mother that his father was having difficulty breathing so Jay went over to their house (about 5 minutes away) and they called the ambulance and took him to Southampton Hospital. He had suffered with COPD - emphysema and it got worse with possible pneumonia and then he went into Congestive Heart Failure and died Friday at 2 pm. Jay and his mom were with him...Jay's an only child. His dad was 88, had a good long life. Will be missed by us all, but God was good and he didn't suffer long. Funeral services are Monday and burial on Tuesday. who knows maybe we'll be bringing Jay's mom with us in August since Corey won't be going.

[luv2boys]

Shelley, Jay, and family,

I'm so sorry you have had such a hard time lately. I am as always thinking of you.


Amy, Jesse, Nicholas, and Jared :hug:

[wendym]

Dear Shelley, Jay and family
Don't know what to say but just want you to know that Mum and I are thinking of you all.
You will constantly be in our prayers.
Wendy and Doreen
:hug:

[jeanneg]

Dear Shelley and Jay,
My heart is aching just thinking about all the recent hardships you've had to endure. Sometimes life doesn't seem fair. I'm hoping you'll all have better days ahead. Our thoughts and prayers are constantly with you.
Jeanne, John and family

[gometros]

Jay and Shelley - may we also add our condolences on your loss. I can't add anything more than what's been said. I can only hope that things improve for you guys real soon.

[eye R.N.]

The whole family has you in our thoughts and prayers.

[sbennett]

Dearest New Friends,

Let me thank you for your very heartfelt expressions of sympathy. Fortunately for Dad, things went quickly for him at the hospital. He went in Thursday morning early and was having difficulty breathing. They sent him to ICU and we continued to see his carbon dioxide levels rise and his PH levels decrease. Which is not good. They transferred him to another room since we had a DNR for him. Friday morning they did a chect xray and EKG wich were not good, to quote the nurses. That was around 12:30pm Friday. We were truly blessed to be there when Dad passed from this world to the next. Although I miss him greatly, I know this is best for him. Again, thanks so much for your kind thoughts.

Jay

[jeanneg]

Did anybody notice that we're now part of a new sub-board: Cruise Meets!
Anyhow, I'd like to make an observation......recently this thread has been pretty much a "party of 5", if you get my drift. Now, I know we're all like a family, but I'm starting to wonder if maybe some of the new cruisers are starting to feel a little out of the loop. I haven't seen a post from any of our new friends in a long time and I'm just wondering if maybe we've somehow unintentionally driven them away. If so, let me be the first to apologize and welcome everybody back. We all love our old friends but would love to get to know the new ones as well. So please let us know you're still out there so we can get to know you!
Happy Halloween to all!
Jeanne

[charles1011]

Greetings Everyone,

I have been reading the board, but have been busy with some minor crises in our life. Nothing that compares to the hurricanes and personal challenges that many of you have described recently.

I wanted to wait until all of you (who know each other) had a chance to express sympathy to one another. I certainly want to echo the supportive words of the others, but I was afraid it would sound a little hollow from someone who has just posted to this board a couple of times.

In the near future, I will share some semi-amusing stories with you about life in California: My new found fame as an "internet pirate." My daughter has a screw loose, literally. And, of course, how happy (not) we are to have the Terminator as our Governor.

Until then, best wishes to you all,

Charles

[gometros]

Charles, if you are anywhere near the fires, I would not call that a minor crisis. Now, I won't even touch where having an actor as a governor falls in to the minor/major category. But then again, you guys have been there before :tongue:

I can't wait to hear the internet pirate story. Do you look like Johnny Depp too? :teeth:

[jeanneg]

Hi Charles,
You're not alone in your misery.....my son is presently living in LA so he will also get to experience the Terminator as governor. Quite frankly, he's such a big movie buff, he would have voted for Arnold if he could. As for now, he's still registered in NC and will continue to hold that until he's no longer a student and gets (hopefully) a permanent address! Meanwhile, we're still trying to figure out how Gary Coleman got over 13,000 votes........! My younger son is convinced he's so small he just kept slipping into the voting booth unnoticed and voted for himself all those times!

[jeanneg]

WHO looks like Johnny Depp? You know someone here wants to meet him! BTW, did anybody catch "Once Upon a Time in Mexico".....it is really hilarious, but alot of the humor is very subtle and I think a large percentage of the audience I was with just didn't "get" it.

[sbennett]

We can just PM everyone or email them the normal ways if we have everyone's email addresses. Aren't they on Sandy's list?
Sorry it got so out of control, I think it was mostly our fault...sorry
:rolleyes:
Here's another subtle hint....I'm going to become a Mary Kay Rep very soon:Pinkbounc :teeth:

[sbennett]

1. Any rumors re: shore excursions yet?
2. Any rumors re: changes in menus?
3. Heard the new show "Golden Mickeys" is absolutely fantastic, friends of ours just got back from a 4 day cruise last week and they couldn't believe the show (he's a fellow music teacher) and said it was even better than the "Dreams" show.
4. Any rumors re: booking spa and Palo reservations in advance?
That's all my questions for now......
:smooth: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[wendym]

Hi all
Shelley - don't you dare apologise - we wish we could have done more to help.
We got all the news about Arnie and Arnold here too - we were in stitches!
We are looking forward to seeing "Golden Mickeys" too. I hope they do something about advance Palos reservations too. Don't want Denise having to do all that running again!!
Wendy

[jeanneg]

I don't know about the rest of my "gang" but momma wants to hit those casinos in PR! Seriously, we'll either meet up with old friends or just hang out a little in San Juan. We've been there several times and have done many of the tourist things.

If St Thomas has an excursion to Buck island, I definitely want my kids to do that. John and I did it close to 30 years ago, but I remember it was fabulous!

Shelley: No need at all to apologize. We've all been somewhat "clique-y" and none of us have had to deal with anything even close to what you've gone through. I hope and pray things will start to turn around for all of you.

[smahoney6]

We'll be there too- never cruised before and can't wait!

[wendym]

Welcome - what a first cruise to choose. You are going to have a "magical"time!
Wendy

[sbennett]

welcome smahoney6
You have to give details for Sandy to include you in the list of travelers.
names and ages of travelers, where you're from, what stateroom you're in and what dinner seating you have.
Sandy will add this info to the list which appears on the first page of this thread.
Again Welcome!
Shelley
:Pinkbounc :bounce: :bounce: :Pinkbounc :wave2:

[smahoney6]

how do I get here the information- by- the - way- I'm shelley too!

[sbennett]

hi Shelley,
Just reply to this post like you did, but include all the information Sandy (a male) will add it to the list.
He's our official list keeper!
Is your husband's name John or Jay? That would really be strange!!
Shelley

[sbennett]

Sandy is gometros on this disboard

:chat: :jumping1::wizard:

[smahoney6]

Hi Sandy- My crew and I will be on the aug 7th cruise! We are Shelley (me), my hubby (mike), my mom (valonne), my children- Andrew (age 8), Taylor (girl- age 7 at cruise time), Peyton (another girl- age 5 at cruise time) and Griffin (age 3). Can't wait! Love to hear all of ya'lls tips and suggestions- keep them coming!

[gometros]

Welcome aboard, Shelley! Your info has been added. If you go to the first page of this thread, there is a link to the list. Where are you all from?

[smahoney6]

Thank you for adding us! We're from Daphne, AL...we'll also be staying in rooms 7040 and 7042....I look forward to seeing all of ya'll...we're going to drive to port canaveral so I guess we'll see ya'll on board....shelley

[smahoney6]

should I post info to the list like dinner seating (early) and room numbers????

[sbennett]

there's a bunch of us staying at the Radisson in Port Canaveral on the 6th, when were you planning on arriving? They have a shuttle to take you right to the boat and you can leave your car parked at the Radisson for free for the week of the cruise, otherwise it's about 70 bucks to park at the port. Radisson has a great pool and go=cart park right next door

[smahoney6]

Right now- we're going to drive to Jacksonville and spend the night and then drive the rest of the way and get to the boat about 12:00. My TA recommended the radisson and the free parking ; we just need to plan on driving farther (the whole 8 hrs) on Fri......I may check the radisson's cancel policy and make res. just in case if there is no huge penalty....

[jeanneg]

So glad you joined our little group! Wow, I just did the math and it seemed like deja vu......like you, my oldest had barely turned 5 when my 4th was born! You have both my admiration and sympathy! When we sail, mine will be 24,22,20 and 19 but I'm still not certain the oldest will be joining us.
You mentioned this is your first Disney cruise.......prepare to have a fabulous time. You'll find lots of great advice on this board, so don't hesitate to ask any questions you might have. We look forward to meeting all of you.
By the way, do you have early or late seating?

[smahoney6]

You have to tell me how you got through all those years! How nice it must be to have grown-ups now (or do they ever grow up!?) We're going to do early sitting- what about ya'll?

[pajammatam]

Just starting to look into this cruise for next yr
What can you tell me about the itinerary? How full is the ship? Any cat 6 or 7 left? Any major details appreciated
Thank you

[eye R.N.]

The itenerary includes St. Thomas, Portero Rico (sp) and Castaway Cay.

The way I check to see what's available is to go to Disney. Com and start the reservation process. That ususally tells you what catagories are left.

Happy hunting.::wave:

[gometros]

To add to Denise's answer, the stop in Puerto Rico is San Juan.

You can check www.disneycruise.com for rates and availability and then for more research check out these two sites:

www.*****************
www.dcltribute.com

[raze]

when does hurricane season start? is this something to be concerned about during beginning of Aug? or is it actually later in Aug/Sept/Oct?

[stormi65]

Hurricane season runs from June 1st to the end of November.

[jeanneg]

Hi everybody,
Got back from California a few days ago, but I've been so swamped ever since. I see the Tag fairies have been at work during my absence!!!!!! Now, I'm very curious because there's a comment there that is very true but I don't remember ever posting. Exactly WHO are these tag fairies.....anybody know?

I had a blast at Disneyland.....best part, it was so empty, they didn't even open up the fast pass counters. Adam, Carrie (his girlfriend) and I got to Magic Kingdom at 8a.m and by 1p.m. we had done everything we wanted multiple times over. Of course I think we did Haunted Mansion 4 times in a row searching for all the Oogie Boogies. We got 9 out of 10 and then had to consult a cast member! At California Adventure they were using the fast passes, but that was also pretty empty. Soaring Over California was quite spectacular, but not my type of attraction. Our favorite ride was definitely California Screamin'.....it is not in any way an extreme coaster, but it is a very fast and smooth one and makes for a really fun ride. We did it 4 or 5 times and always waited for the front car, which I graciously gave to Adam and Carrie every time but once! Tower of Terror is not yet open, and Superstar Limo was down the entire time we were there, so there really wasn't all that much to do there. None of the other rides at Paradise Pier were worth doing over except for the roller coaster.
We had dinner at Napa Rose in the Grand Californian Hotel and that was excellent. "The Producers" was also great......Martin Short can crack up an audience without even saying a word and I never realized Jason Alexander could sing so well.
I have lots of family coming starting Tuesday so I will be very busy the next few days. I so HATE to clean! I'm not sure if I'll get to this board much, so let me wish all of you now a very happy and safe Thanksgiving. We can all start our diets next Monday!!!!

[wendym]

Happy Thanksgiving to you all as well when it comes.
Jeanne
Sounds like a wonderful trip - we are both very jealous! You didn't miss anything with Superstar Limo - it was pretty lame when it was open! I love Screamin too but mum won't go near it - we both love Soaring though.
Wendy

[gometros]

Wow, we haven't been to DL since 1982. That was in the days before Judy started refusing to fly. . I told her I'm going take the kids and go without her one of these days :)

Judy's boss and his wife are in PR this week and they promised to bring back information for us. Judy asked for doubles of everything, so when they get back, I'll pass the info on.

Have a Happy Turkey Day everybody!

[eye R.N.]

Jeannie, which comment don't you remember saying?

glad you had a great time and an empty park. Still wish I could have come and played.

[jeanneg]

Denise: The one about experiencing the original Magic Kingdom. It's true, since we were there several months after it opened in October of '71, but I don't recall ever telling anyone that.
I really shouldn't be here right now.....still have lots of cleaning to do! Jen arrives tonight and everyone else tomorrow!
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
Jeanne

[sbennett]

Hi everyone, we hope that you all had a GREAT Thanksgiving. Ours was very quiet and relaxing and after the fall we've had, we could sure use a day like that. We've had some problems with our email, if any of you have the time please email us so we know it's working again! All the best to you all!:D :wave:

[jeanneg]

We had a great Thanksgiving, but it was totally exhausting and now all Christmas stuff needs to be taken out and put up. We've got the tree up and decorated and I'm presently working on the inside of the house. We'll tackle the outside lights this coming weekend. Everyone else around me has them upalready. I'm really feeling the effects of the shortened season this year.

Shelley, I have 2 email addresses for you (hampton and optonline)....which one is giving you trouble? I'll be glad to send you a test mail.

It's been quiet here lately.....any word from the newbies?

[gometros]

I sent Shelley a test to her hamptons.com id.

Judy's boss came back from a trip San Juan. I haven't seen anything yet, but they did say that the old city and the fort was worth seeing.

[sbennett]

the email address that's giving us grief is the one at home.
shelljay@optonline.net
we used to get lots of emails....now we hardly get any, and I'm concerned because that's the address that my Mary Kay stuff will come to from the Mary Kay website. I'm just starting out being a representative to try to bring in some extra income....we really need it, I might have to change the email address I have registered with them to another account.
Think Pink
:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

Sandy...any info from Judy's boss re: San Juan?:earseek:

[charles1011]

Hello Everyone,

I put off writing a note because I was hoping to get some resolution to the internet piracy story before telling it. (I know you are all hoping for a Johnny Depp connection, but he isn't part of the story.) It's still not resolved, so more later.

My older daughter, Jennifer, broke a bone in her hand, last May. It wasn't a particularly exciting story. As she was running to answer the phone, she banged her hand against the door frame, at just the right angle, so that the 3rd metacarpal broke into 3 pieces. She had to have surgery to get it repaired. During the surgery, they connected the bone back together with a series of 6 or 7 tiny screws. Afterwards, they said she could leave the screws in for good, or they could be removed after the bone had healed. Of course, a second surgery would be required and each time they cut her hand open there is a risk of nerve or tendon damage.

(After the surgery, I was mostly curious to see whether the screws would set off the metal detectors at airports, but it wasn't a problem. )

Recently, she has had some pain in her hand where the bone was broken. She went back to the surgeon and they discovered that one of the tiny screws had begun to rotate out of the bone. It was rubbing against a tendon, causing the pain.

So, while lots of people may have used the phrase, I can literally say, "My daughter has a screw loose."

Have a fun weekend,

Charles

[wendym]

Charles that is an awful play on words but I like it!!
Wendy

[gometros]

Did I miss something? Where was the piracy?

Wendy is right, that was an awful pun, which is why I loved it. Just hope your daughter doesn't read these boards :)

[jeanneg]

Hi Charles,
Good to hear from someone new once in awhile. All four of my kids have loose screws.....the other kind! I hope your daughter gets hers taken care of. How's life with Gov. Arnold?!? I agree with Sandy in that I don't recall any internet piracy story. Please enlighten us.

Shelley: I'll send you a test email shortly. Are you sure someone in your household didn't adjust the spam blocker? I would expect mine to go through since I'm already on your contact list.

Denise: Don't keep us in suspense any longer......how was your trip to New York? We watched the parade on TV and it looked like you had great weather. Some years the people are all bundled up and shivering with smoke coming out of their mouths but I didn't notice any of that this year.

[luv2boys]

Hi everyone.


Glad to see everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Jesse has been in St. Thomas, USVI working for the past three weeks or so and will be back Christmas Eve. The boys and I went to Nashville. Nicholas has all his round of tests this week. So far, so good. Had the MRI done today. Will get the results tomorrow.

Nicholas has his own website now. It is:

http://home.earthlink.net/~nicholasc

There is no www.

Amy

[wendym]

Hi all
Like Jeanne we are desperate to hear about Denise's trip to New York - I wish we got to see more of the Macy's parade here - we usually get a little snippet on the news.
Amy - I love Nicholas's website. It looks wonderful - keeping our fingers crossed for the next set of results.
Wendy

[eye R.N.]

Was amazingly uneventfull. We stayed at the Avalon a nice4 little hotel very close to the empire state building. Hope was not feeling all that great but didn't want to spoil the trip so she kept quiet till we were there.

We did the empire state thing, boy, two hours in line. The view was nice. But it is now on my list of been there done that.

Afterwards we went to Times Square and stood in the TKTS line at least Taylor Chelsea and I did, Andy took Hope and went back to the room. She just wasn't up for it. Our hour and a half in line was rewarded with orchestera seat tickets for Throughly Modern Millie. The bonus was there was enough time to eat dinner before the performance.

I can wholehearted recommend this one. Great scenery, beautiful costumes, and the women who played Millie, Sutton Foster, has a very bright future. My only disappointment was that Delta Burke was taking a break from the Mrs. Meers role. But Leslie Uggams in the Muzzy Van Hossmere role was outstanding and more than made up for it.

My only regret is that they were doing a fund raiser for AIDS after the performance, and I was too nervous about getting back to the hotel before midnight to stay. For $20 you could get your picture with any one of the stars. This would have been a real treat (although after all the lines we stood in we weren't looking our best ;)

The parade route was packed!! Wall to wall people as far as the eye could see. Way to claustrophobic for me. So we left early and headed to our friends to catch up before dinner.

All in all a great time!

Now tomorrow andy and I leave for a weekend at WDW. So you'll have to wait for next week for that trip report. Hopefully it will involve a small plane, yes I am watching the weather.

[luv2boys]

Nicholas' test results!!!!

MRI showed tumor stable!!!
Vision 20/20
Greatly improved in physical therapy
"Supersonic" hearing
Neurological issues fine
Start growth hormone any day now



Amy

[musicalSaranader]

Glad to hear Nicholas' test results came back good!

[jeanneg]

Denise: sounds like you had a great time in spite of the crowds. I hope that Hope is feeling better. I didn't realize you had a WDW trip coming up so soon...... any special occasion?
Amy: so glad to hear that Nicholas got a good report!
Sara: that's such an amazing family portrait.......I hope you've got it enlarged and framed! We just got back photos we took at Thanksgiving to include with our holiday cards........what a joke!
We don't have a single photo where everyone is smiling EXCEPT the one where all my kids are giving the finger! It just about sums up their opinion of my holiday picture-taking!

[gometros]

Amy - that's GREAT news!

Sara - how DARE you post that picture on the internet :Teeth:

[wendym]

Amy - what wonderful news - and what a lovely early christmas present.
Sandy - I love the picture! I even turned photos back on so I could see it;)
And what's this about a one day trip to WDW - sounds great to me!
Denise - how is Hope doing? I agree with you about the Empire state Building - we much prefered Ellis Island. Millie sounds great though - they have a version at the West End that I fancy going to see. However my culture this weekend is going to the pantomime - they have one of the stars of Big Brother in it so it should be funny and even better it is Peter Pan!
Wendy

[gometros]

It's SNOWING!

We're going down to Florida (Boca Raton) to visit my folks the week of Christmas. We wanted to make this trip about them, so we didn't want to get sidetracked too much with a trip to WDW, but I wanted to see the two new attractions we missed in July - Mission:Space and Mickey's Philharmagic, so I called Member Services and was able to snag a one-bedroom at OKW for one night.

[sbennett]

What wonderful news for the holiday Amy...that's the best present ever!

Snowing here too...supposed to get 12 to 18 inches by tomorrow..so much for the Christmas Bazaar at church and the tree lighting in Southampton that we're supposed to sing at.
Took me 2 hours to get home today, usually takes 25 minutes. Took Jay almost 3 hours to get home. Kids can't wait till tomorrow to play in the snow...yeah Mommy and Daddy get to play too....digging out the 2 cars!

Happy Blizzard Day to all of you in the Blizzard Area!
:jumping1: :jumping1: :hyper:

[DVCLady]

stopped by to say hi. I'm hoping to get my son potty trained before the Aug 7th cruise. He will be 3 in July 2004. Wish me luck


We are also snowed in over here in CT. Some of the snow drifts must be 2-3 feet high.

[wendym]

Hope you are all surviving the blizzards - it is very cold here but no snow yet!
Good luck with the potty training DVCLady!

[gometros]

Wendy - what kind of snowfall do you typically get in Aberdeen as compared to the northeast here?

The only way I'm going to survive this winter is by dreaming of the crystal blue water and white beaches at Castaway Cay.

[wendym]

We are lucky and usually don't get more than a foot at a time - and it clears quite quickly.
Those thoughts are keeping me going too!

[musicalSaranader]

Originally posted by gometros
The only way I'm going to survive this winter is by dreaming of the crystal blue water and white beaches at Castaway Cay.

I'm with you, dad!!! :sunny:

[eye R.N.]

Amy great news!!!!

Just back from the trip and for you Clay fans, I was five feet away from him on Saturday Morning. Depending on which take they us, look for my smiling face in the crowd to his left as he finishes his song.

The trip was the dreamchild of a friend of a friend who owns a plane. My job was basically upaid tour guide. (Did you know you can hire Disney tour guides for $75/hour 8 hour min.?) We managed to get out before the storm and just got back, so I'll have details later.

Right now I want a shower. . . badly.

[gometros]

Originally posted by eye R.N.
Just back from the trip and for you Clay fans, I was five feet away from him on Saturday Morning. Depending on which take they us, look for my smiling face in the crowd to his left as he finishes his song.


Denise - was Clay in the world for some special event?

Great, now Elana will give me heck for not going to WDW when Clay was there.

[jeanneg]

Denise: sounds like you may have been there for the taping of the Christmas special, right? You must have had a double dose of Clay since I recall he was in the Macy's Thanksgiving parade as well. I don't know if i remembered to tell you this, but when I was in DL, they were taping the Christmas special for that park. George Lopez was the host and I hung around for a little bit, but after watching him do the same take about 10 times, it just got boring! I wasn't that close, but if the camera does a pan, I'm also on the left with a bright red 7-Dwarf sweatshirt! They also filmed the Christmas parade but it was only in the area of the castle and there wasn't any sound! Each float had the music playing very low and the performers were going through all these exaggerated lip-sync motions......it was actually quite funny! I gather they need to have totally pure sound and so they overlay the footage with a clean track. One other amusing note.....I got there before the park actually opened and they were inviting people to film a holiday greeting which they might use during the show. So you had all these families getting filmed saying "we're the such'n'such family from wherever". I really wanted to get filmed, but it was one of the days when I went alone and wasn't going to say "Hi, I'm Jeanne from Raleigh and can't get anyone to go to the park with me!!!!!"

[eye R.N.]

They were taping in all four parks, you couldn't move without running into a film crew. So depending on how they cut the film, I get to be two places at one time on Christmas Day. Clay did about five takes, we watched three before we needed to leave for the keys to the kingdom tour.

The quick trip report: We left in the middle of the snow storm, from a small airport on the Eastern Shore. Fortunately, we were on the right side of the rain snow line.

Small planes are. . . .interesting. It is a whole different experience, you need to wear headphone in order to communicate and to drown out the noise of the plane. While it is a whole lot faster than driving, you still have to stop for gas. Small airports are intersting too, some of these places are downright plush. When we stopped in N.C. they let us use the "loaner Mercedes" to go get some lunch.

The highlights of the trip for me, was mostly reconnecting with friends. While the rest of the crew went to La Neuba, Andy &I got together with Deb Willis (all ears) at a reception and met up with one of my TDS friends who is now working Big Thunder. I also connected with Chelsea's friends at Innovations. All I had to say was I was Chelsea's Mom.

Most of our time was spent in tourguiding. I now have a new appreciation for all of the kids who are stuck with a parents agenda. It does get tiring after a while, six adults who are not used to waiting around for other people get lost fairly easily:teeth:

I have a new secret pleasure. The hot tub at Port Orleans early in the morning. Blissfully empty, heaven on muscles that had spent too much time cramped in a plane then walking all over the kingdom. If there is a better way to start a day of touring, I've yet to find it.

We did try some things we don't normally do. Ohana among them. The fireworks from Ohana are very nice, although they didn't have the new soundtrack to go with the fireworks.

The rest of the group really weren't MK fans so Andy and I did the Very Merry Christmas Party by ourselves Sunday night. It was great fun. They kept everyone who was already in the park at six pm in future world. It was great riding Buzz with no line, but I am disappointed that they have added a photo opt and a gift shop to the ride. We saw some great shows, rode everything we wanted to without waiting. Wishes, the new firework show is awesome!!!! The Christmas parade was really cute, they even had "snow" on main street. Too bad if felt cold enough to have real snow on the ground. I think I need to have my eyes checked because parts of the 3-D Mickey Philharmagic seemed out of focus to me. It is a cute show though and worth a visit.

[jeanneg]

Denise: sounds like you had a great time! How long was the plane ride and how many passengers could fit in the aircraft? I'm so jealous that you've done MVMCP....we've been there around Thanksgiving many times so we've done most of the Christmas stuff but they don't begin Mickey's Christmas Party until the first week in December and so we always just miss it! Did you get to do Mission Space?

[eye R.N.]

The plane sat six. In fact I had to tell them my REAL weight, because we were getting close to the limit for the plane.
The ride down was about five hours with the gas stop.

[gometros]

Originally posted by eye R.N.
The ride down was about five hours with the gas stop.

Somehow that line made me chuckle. I mean, we're only talking Maryland to Orlando, not some cross-Atllantic trip. I can just see the pilot asking for contributions to pay for the gas :)

Sounds like you had a good time. It's so call that you met Deb Wills. I've corresponded with her for years, but have never had a chance to meet her.

[sbennett]

Denise,
Sounds like you and Andy really know how to enjoy things. I love small planes myself, Jay would never go in one. I flew from LI to Pittsburgh in a 2 seater, and because the pilot was a lefty I sat in the pilots seat , sliding canopy over head so when we got up to cruising altitude he opened the canopy....it was soooo cool. Saw Eagles flying around really neat.

Jeanne: So Johnny Depp was named Entertainer of the Year!! by E- Entertainment..we're sure you're thrilled.

Shelley

[sbennett]

Come On Folks....no postings since 12/12!!

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and a safe and happy new year's eve.

We pray for all to have a good 2004.

:grouphug:

[wendym]

Happy New Year to all!
Mum and I are just back from New Year in Amsterdam - took in New Year with 25000 other people in Dam Square. They don't quite have the same safety regulations there and there were fireworks going off everywhere! We had fun though.
Best news though is our new great granddaughter/ great niece was born yesterday. She is called Rylee (Irish for valiant seemingly) - so 2 girls both with boy's names! Her older sister is Cameron.
All the very best for 2004 to you all.
Wendy and Doreen

[sbennett]

Great news for you both. Is she as pretty as her name?
I really like the name Rylee.
Jay & I were in Amsterdam back in 1985, on a singing tour with the Choral Society we used to sing with...before children and marriage! We went to Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Bruges, Heidelberg and Cologne. We weren't even dating each other at that time (didn't really know who each other were) My girlfriend and I made a mistake while walking around Amsterdam and ended up in the "red light" district! That was certainly an eye-opening experience.

[gometros]

Congralatulations to you and Doreen, Wendy! Rylee is a pretty name.

I remember the one time I was in Amsterdam. I was 15 at the time and on the way to ISrael with a group tour. We had a stop over in Amsterdam. While we didn't get to leave the airport, I was quite surprised at some of the reading material on display in the airport stores. It was my introduction to the more liberal attitudes of Amsterdam.

So here it is January with eight months to go. Is it time to start getting excited about the cruise yet? It's been fairly warm here in New York, so I haven't been as motivated. But, we're looking at colder temperatures by the end of this week, so I know I'll be thinking of St. Johns by then.

Judy and I read an article about the Queen Mary and decided that's something we'd like to do in the future. I reminded Judy that she would have to fly one way (she thought it was like the Magic, you end up where you start). Maybe if Sara follows through with her plans to spend a semester in England next year, we'll take a trip to see her and catch the Queen Mary back to New York.

I forgot to add. My trip report is up on our one day trip to WDW. Check it out at http://www.canettifamily.com/122203.htm

[wendym]

Yes Rylee is as pretty as her name but then we are biased!
The Red Light District is certainly different! Been twice before and never went but this time the guide offered to take a group of us so we went to see what it was like. Well we can we have been. The rest of europe is not like this. If you ever go don't go into coffee houses as it isn't coffee but drugs they sell - the brown pubs are far better.
Sandy, you and Judy would love the Queen Mary 2 - we have stayed on the original at Long Beach and it is is gorgeous. Thanks for the trip report - very jealous!
And it is never too soon to think about the cruise!!
Wendy

[sbennett]

great report Sandy....so are you going to share the recipe for the pumpkin bread....Grilled Salmon on Pumpkin Bread....sounds wonderful...we get salmon from BJ's all the time.

[gometros]

Yeah, I can type it up. It's a pretty easy recipe. Elana already made it for a NYE party she went to.

[jeanneg]

Happy new year everyone!

Wendy: congratulations on the arrival of your newest family member! I love both names.

Sandy: sounds like you had a great trip....you really managed to pack alot into such a short visit. I loved all the photos!

Denise: where you been,girlfriend? John and I got invited to one of his referring doc's Christmas party and we met a former co-worker of yours (I think I got the name right: Kathy Coventry). She used to work for the company that recruited John to NC (and then closed down 3 years later!), but she left before my husband started so this was the first time meeting her. Just goes to show you what a small world we all live in!

This is my busy, busy time at work......setting up the new year and closing out the old one, preparing W-2s, 1099s, calculating profit sharing, and then getting all our personal stuff in order. I've been trying to get the house back to normal after the holidays. Everytime I think I finally have all the decorations put away, I spy something else that has to be taken down and put away. Jay finished the last of his college applications over the break, so that's one thing we don't have to worry about. Now we just have to wait for the replies.

Don't know about everybody else, but I was a piggie over the holidays! Plus, I've already broken my new years diet resolutions about a dozen times! I just realized we'll be sailing 7 months from today and I don't want to have to buy all new cruisewear, so it's time to get motivated. If anyone has some effective inspiration, please pass it on!

[EPCOTgrl1]

Where have I been? Tough question, with long complicated answers. I have been helping out my old manager of Disney Store at her new store (40 minutes drive) so most of my holiday weekends where spent folding t shirts and making lots of folks unhappy by the amount they were going to get for the items they were returning.

Taylor and I did take the few days right before new year to visit my sister's family in Cincinnati. Her husband is recovering from his third retinal detachment surgery. The zoo there is amazing and I enjoyed seeing her new house and playing with the nephews.

Did you liked Katie? she is a real sweetie, I hope everything is going better for her. Are you still coming to Annapolis in Feb?

Congratulate yourself, I haven't even started undecorating the house.

Wendy, congrats on the new addition, great name. You two and just too adventerous.

Sandy, great report. Wow what a great use of limited time.

Now as for the poundage issue. My plan is to weigh in at the Discovery Store this Saturday and take their 12 week challenge. In addition this semister I am taking weight training at the college. It is the only course that will fit in with Andy's teaching schedule. I figure if my GPA is involved I won't "blow it off" like I would if I joined a gym.

My boss is finally starting to come through with some information about Purtero Rico. He gave me the name of the best rum. He will also scope out the names of the good eatery's near the fort when he goes to a meeting in March.

[gometros]

Denise - can you tell me more about this Discovery Store challenge? (At first I read it as the Disney Store and wondered what they had to do with weight loss :)

Ah, the advantage of my faith. I don't have all that clean up work to do after the holidays!

Thanks on the comments about the trip. We accomplished what we set out to do, and more. The pictures btw (and I have lots more, the advantage of digital - no film and processing costs), were taken with my new toy.

[wendym]

Hi all
Well I too made a pig of myself over the holidays but I had lost a bit of weight over last term so I am probably back to what I was - do not want to buy new cruise clothes!
Good luck to evrybody with their weight loss.
Wendy

[jeanneg]

Hi guys,
I was just reading something on another thread about the new Ron Jon resort that has recently opened near the port. I tried to post the link, but don't know how (maybe someone can give me a tutorial) Anyhow, I'm sure you can find it on the main discussion board. It's right on the beach, has a great pool with waterslide and lazy river, free movie threatre and miniature golf. It sounds so good I'm even thinking of shortening our few days at Disney and staying there an extra day. The downside is that they don't allow free parking or have a shuttle to the port, but I understand a taxi is under $10 including tip. We'll probably park at the port anyway so that's not a major concern. I haven't checked out the rates for August, but from what I've heard they're only slightly higher than the Radisson. I think we should all check it out and maybe reconsider staying there. Sounds like it could be a fun place.

Denise: I really didn't get the chance to talk much to your former co-worker......only exchanged a few words as I didn't meet her until she was leaving and came over to our table to talk to someone else she knew. The February trip is a little bit up in the air right now. We still have our ressies for the Waterfront Marriott (John didn't want to have to walk too far in the cold!) and we're certainly hoping to be able to go, but we had a little incident with Jason (our "good" child) when we went to the AAO meeting in Anaheim. Our daughter who lives in downtown Raleigh was supposed to come home over the weekend but, unknownst to us, decided not to. Jason decided to host a party (we affectionately call it the "orgy"!) so right now we don't plan to do the "home alone" thing unless we can be sure our older daughter will be there. We ended up grounding him from before Thanksgiving until Christmas break, so hopefully he realized we were more than a little ticked off! Anyhow, that's all water under the bridge right now so in answer to your question, we're hoping to go in February, but haven't made it definite yet.

Sandy: did you ever get the "survivor" card? I nearly flipped when
I saw them in the store, bought a whole box, and then when I got home realized there were very few people who would appreciate receiving it! In fact, I still have more than half the box left!

[luv2boys]

Hey guys.

I finally talked Jesse into booking another cruise. However, he wants to take his twin brother and his family. The only way we can afford to do that is to take a 3 day. We are going July 22. Oh well, maybe I can catch up with you guys some time. Does this get me kicked off of this thread?

:confused:

Amy

[jeanneg]

No way.....
Hi Amy, glad to hear you'll be taking another cruise. Please continue to post here and keep us up to date with everything that's happening. BTW, how has your son been doing lately?
Jeanne

[luv2boys]

Thanks for asking. Nicholas is starting growth hormone next week, and I have never seen a kid so excited to get a shot six days a week. Hopefully, he will feel better overall. He just wants longer legs, to not be called slow poke or shorty.


Amy

[gometros]

Now I'm worried. Any kid who looks forward to shots can't be normal :teeth:

Sorry to hear you won't be joining us, but glad to hear you[re cruising again. The only suggestion I have is that you may want to consider the 4-day, if you can swing it. The 3-day will seem way too short, especially after having experienced the 7-day.

[gometros]

Just want to give you all a warming thought to get through these cold days of January:

200 Days until our next cruise!!

[jeanneg]

Wow, that's great news!

Hey, did anyone get a chance to check out the Ron Jon Caribe Resort site? It looks really nice. I'm thinking of maybe not doing the WDW thingy beforehand and instead just going to the port hotel Thursday night. What does everyone else plan on doing?

Yo,Sandy(for the last friggin' time!): Did the card ever arrive?!? I am so psyched about "Survivor: All Stars".....just saw an article in People with the breakdown of the teams!

[gometros]

Jeanne - sorry for taking so long. I had to remember where I put the card. It was adorable. The idea of voting Santa off the North Pole! Thanks.

The picture of you guys was great too, btw.

[eye R.N.]

They are calling for six to ten inches of snow here between today and tomorrow.

Sandy, I wish I could tell you about the Discovery Store challenge, I went to sign up on the appointed day and the line went completely down the mall and out the door. (it is a very long mall) I figured I could do this on my own. I am not worried about the number on the scale so much as decreasing my overall body fat percentage. I know the gene pool I swim in and diabetes is lurking just around the coner if I don't keep in control. So in addition to I'm taking a water aerobic course right after the weight training.

Does anyone have a link to the Ron Jon site? Right now I don't have a clue where we are staying before the cruise. Heck, I don't even know exactly who in our family is cruising except for Hope and I. This is so unlike me!!! if I can trade in an RCI week for the resort that would be a big plus. It would be nice to be rested before getting on the boat instead of suffering the after effects of that long drive.

Amy I understand where you son is coming from, my nephew has to take shots but for the exact opposite reason. He was maturing too fast. He was excited that he wasn't going to be the tallest kid in class.

[luv2boys]

Hey everybody,


After two days on growth hormone, Nicholas is already giving himself his shots, with close supervision of course. He has been on them for almost a week and boy can I tell a difference. I guess when you have had none, it doesn't take much to feel the effects. I can't wait to see him six months from now!!!! He has so much more energy!!!!

Amy

[sbennett]

Conratulations Amy! So glad to hear the good news!

Everyone wanting the site for the RonJon site, here it is:

http://www.ronjonresort.com/default.shtml

:D :bounce: :Pinkbounc :sunny:

[gometros]

That's great news, Amy. Glad to hear it.

I don't know why, but I just can't get into the Ron Jon site. I've tried in Netscape and Explorer. I don't know if it's the shtml extension that's causing me problems or something else.

For you Clay fans, I made two daughters very happy. Clay Aiken is on tour with Kelly Clarkson and I was able to get tickets at Nassau Coliseum for Elana and then surprised Sara with two tickets to the MCI Center in DC. Her ony problem is getting there, since she doesn't have a car.

[jeanneg]

Sandy: I just tried Shelley's link and it came up fine on my computer which normally has trouble opening everything......must be something on your end this time. That's great news about the clay tickets.....I heard the ones in Raleigh were sold out in less than an hour. I'm not sure where the MCI center is located but maybe someone could drive her to the train station and from there she could take the Metro or a taxi. When is the concert?

This is day #3 of being totally shut-in. We had 4 inches of snow on Sunday which was bad enough, but it was followed by freezing rain and so now nobody can get anywhere. Yesterday we were in the teens and today the low twenties so nothing is melting. It rained a bit last night and they're calling for even more precipitation tonight so who knows when they'll open the schools again. Nothing much to do but cook and eat which is precisely what I don't need to be doing! Right now all thoughts of an upcoming cruise seem too good to be true!

[musicalSaranader]

I don't care how I get to the concert, but I will make sure that I can get there!!! I love Clay!:hyper:

[sbennett]

Well we got about 10" so far and they say we may still get a little more...not as much as originally predicted. No school though and no work for me either.
I just adjusted our Cruise reservations for the four of us ....not five and we'll only have one cabin #6016 instead of the two. That certainly helps with the financial end of things!! Of course we lost one of the room credits which I figured we would.
Jay's directing the musical at school this year which has a nice stipend attached which also helps and he's the musical director of "Follies" at Southampton College and he's in the show as well which will give him more $....
To update everyone, Corey's not doing too well still. He's beginning to get aggressive toward others at the psych. center, they've had to remove him from the school situation and sedate him and do extensive therapy with him. They hope to be able to place him back in the school situation next week. It's difficult for all of us to deal with this , but we've turned him over to God, since we've done all we possibly can, and pray that he gets what he needs. You all wouldn't recognize him if you saw him, it was frightening to Courtney to see him, she couldn't believe that it was him.
Can't wait for August. What's going on with staying by the port, is everyone shifting to Ron Jon? or still staying at the Radisson?
:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :bounce: :bounce:

[gometros]

Shelley - words cannot express how we feel about the news about Corey. Our best wishes go out to you, Jay, Kristofer and Courtney.

What play is Jay directing? Elana's school is doing Pippin this year and Elana is in the chorus.

I don't know about Ron Jon yet, I finally got to their site, but I need to research it some. Right now, the cruise is looking so far away, since I can't see past the snow outside.

Btw, I noticed that the Travel Channel is doing a show on the Disney Cruise Line on 1/30 and 1/31. I'm hoping that it's an updated episode showing the changes to the Magic.

[sbennett]

The elementary school is doing either "Schoolhouse Rock" or "Aladdin" not the Disney version though unless you know where he can get it!
Southampton College is doing "Follies" by Sondheim. He's playing "Roscoe" the tenor who opens the show singing "Beautiful Girls"
We're watching our video tape right now of our sunset sail in Key West while the kids are drinking hot chocolate after havinge shoveled and played outside in the snow.
pirate:

[jeanneg]

Shelley: so sorry to hear that Corey is not doing well...you guys have suffered so much already I was hoping and praying that things would finally be looking up with the right treatment. Some things are just totally beyond our control and you are so wise to give it over to God. I admire your strength and will keep you all in my prayers.
I don't think any decision has been made regarding the Ron Jon resort, but it's worth giving it some thought. I do know for sure that we will NOT be heading to WDW before the cruise. If the group decides to stay at Ron Jon we would drive down on Thursday so we can enjoy the resort all day Friday. It's a 10 hour trip for us so if we leave at 6a.m. we should arrive for dinner (yay, Verandah Man's favorite restaurant!) If most people opt for the Radisson, we'll probably just leave Friday morning since it's not that much of an attraction to us and all things considered, we'd probably all rather have the extra work day. We'll go along with whatever most of the others decide (new people, you're in on this too!), but the RJ place really looked kinda cool.

I'm in the midst of planning a "Girls just wanna have fun" excursion to WDW (which is why we're not going to do it again this summer). Jen had the great idea that since she and Nikki have the same spring break and this may be Nikki's last year as a student we should do a "mommy and us" mini vacation. So far we've got 3 nights at Port Orleans Riverside at $114 per night and I'm working on using FF miles to get us down there for free. We have oodles of park hoppers that have 1 or 2 days still left, so I won't need to buy any passes. With the hotel and transportation to/from the airport we should spend well under $500, which is cheap when I consider the fact that it's preventing them from going on other spring break vacations. Sorry, no boys allowed, but if other ladies would like to join us, jump right in! (and Jay in "Follies" does not qualify!)

[eye R.N.]

Shelly, I am so sorry for you and Corey. You all remain in our thoughts and prayers. I haven't gotten rid of the second room yet, despite not knowing who is cruising.

The girls min vacation sounds great. Chelsea's band will be marching in EPCOT sometime in the spring. She is never home long enough to pin down real dates.

If I can trade some RCI time, Ron Jon's will be a go for us. Right now I'm with Sandy, I can't see past the ice and snow. If the kids don't go to school tomorrow I may blow a fuse.

[luv2boys]

Shelley,

Sorry to hear about Corey. Will be thinking about you!

[gometros]

Hey, Amy, I just noticed your sig says you're going on the 7-day western again. I thought you said you were only going on the Wonder this time? So what, you can't wait one more month and joins us again? ;)

[luv2boys]

Sandy,

Believe me, I wish I was. I miss you guys. I no longer use AIM so I don't get to talk to you as much. Ever since I loaded it, my computer was giving me trouble. I got a new computer and decided not to put it on again.

Look again, that was July 03 that I have on there as times that I have gone.

P.S. Can I be one of your daughters? I love Clay too!!!! He's not coming anywhere really close around here unfortunately.

Amy

[gometros]

Stupid me, I read it as July 3rd! Hey, you can join us if you can make it to New York!

[luv2boys]

Sandy,

You buying?

[jeanneg]

Well, the kids FINALLY made it back to class (with a delayed start time, of course!) I know you guys up north are getting a good chuckle out of us dumb southerners. 4 inches of snow that began Sunday morning and the schools are closed until Friday! The sad part is, there's no such thing as a free snow day.....each and every one has to be made up which means the kids have to give back all their holidays for the next 9 weeks solid. Because of this week, they lost the 4-day President's weekend and another 4-day weekend for winter break. Stinks for them.......

How is everyone up north coping with the snow up there?

Denise: were schools open yesterday in your area? I heard on the news it was -2 degrees in Annapolis!

[gometros]

I don't know Jeanne, we got 9 inches of snow on Wednesday and the schools waited until that morning to decide whether or not to close. You southerners are real wimps when it comes to cold weather :teeth:

Amy, I got the tickets and you want me to pay you to get here too? :) :) :)

[eye R.N.]

The kids were out again friday, and there was nothing but rain!!! The mere mention of ice in the forcast sends the school board into a cold sweat. They must see bus accidents and lawsuits in their sleep. At this rate I am very glad we are not booked in late June or early July. The kids may still be in school!!:earseek:


I e-mailed Ron Jon's today for a quote on a one bedroom. I am looking at two days before the cruise. After all that driving it will be nice to veg for a couple of days before the ship. I did use the coupon code. I'll let you all know as soon as I hear anything. I wonder if they would give a group discount???

Sandy, I seem to remember you doing St. John's on your own during a previous cruise? Could you share some details.

Chelsea's school is Marching at Epcot sometime between april 23-25. With my leaving for San Deigo april 30th It looks like I'll be missing her swan song.

[gometros]

Denise - we didn't do it on our own then, we did the St. John Island Tour. we will probably do St. John on our own this time. Here's a snippet from my trip report:

When we got to St. John, we were loaded onto a safari bus, similar to the ones in Animal Kingdom. Our driver and tour guide was Chris. He was very good, telling us everything and showing us some of the most interesting little things about the island. There are only 5,000 residents of St. John and the schools go only through eighth grade. Kids have to to take a ferry to St. Thomas to go to high school. Although the U.S. Virgin Islands are U.S. Territory, they drive on the left side of the road, since the islands were once owned by the British. We saw some of the most gorgeous beaches and views I’ve ever seen. The tour itself took about two hours We then took the Island Girl back to St. Thomas, arriving at around 1:30. If anyone has twenty-seven million I can borrow, there are two small islands for sale, Big St. James and Little St. James. The catch is that you have to buy them as a pair, hence the twenty-seven million.

[gometros]

Relative to the discussion about St. JOhn, if you guys haven't seen this thread, you might find it interesting:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=4863780#post4863780

[jeanneg]

Just wanted to say "hi" to everyone! It's been really, really busy here lately. We have an appointment with the accountant this weekend so once that's over with it should get better.

Denise: looks like we'll be coming up afterall.......don't remember the exact dates but it's the last Friday and Saturday nights in February. What did you find out about Ron Jon's........I just learned there's a nice restaurant on the water called the Grill, but I haven't checked it out yet. I'll try to get to it next week.

Good news: Jason got into UNC-Chapel Hill, but we'll probably have to wait until March or April to hear from the others.

[gometros]

Tell Jason congrat. It's always nice to get that first acepetance out of the way.

I'll have the cruise on my mind this weekend, since we're going to the Raleigh Hotel in the Catskills. (For those of you who did not grow up in the New York area, the Catskills, better known as the Borscht Belt, was the happening place to vacation back in the days before air travel made it so much easier to get to more exotic places. Think Dirty Dancing). They always have their own version of cruise ship bingo throughout the weekend.

[eye R.N.]

With the coupon code 300. 1 bedroom (two double beds in bedroom pull out couch in second room, full kitchen washer and dryer) 149/night. Studio (king bed pull out couch, efficency kitchen) $98/night first night deposit required 72 hour cancellation policy. Yes we can park on thier "side lot" no shuttle.
I am thinking of arriving on the

Grills is a wonderful place. We ate there last year and even non seafood Chelsea found something. They used to have a coupon on thier web site for us out of towners.

[jeanneg]

Denise: Thanks for checking out the Ron Jon......do you know offhand if either of those units will accommodate 5?

Any stockholders out there? What is going on with Disney? I'm not sure how to vote this time around. Eisner has done some really fabulous things for the company in the past, but I think his star is fading fast. I may just be sentimental (which is never good in business) but I would hate to see Disney acquired by anyone. I'm sure there must be something about this on the community board, but I just haven't had the time to check it out. Has the Dis-board come out and voiced an opinion?

[eye R.N.]

As for the stockholder I suggest you look up www.savediseny.com
Andy and I will be in Phil on second, for the rally, I would go to the meeting on the third but, it's a surgery day.

[EPCOTgrl1]

Mommy the link doesnt work....


I would just like to pop in and say hi to everyone... HI!!!

[jeanneg]

Hi Chelsea....great photo! Is that a graduation pic?

We'll be in your neck of the woods this weekend since Jen will be in Annapolis for the Patriot League Championship. I'm still trying to get a firm fix on what activities the team parents have planned for those days so I'll be able to determine whether or not we'll have some free time and be able to get together with your folks.
I already know that Jen will not have an individual event on Thursday which is great for us because it means one less day of lost work. She's swimming the mile again this year and they usually schedule that between morning and evening sessions which means we'll lose most of our free time on Saturday. That's a little bit of a bummer because we really wanted to get to see more of the town. Oh well, I should get more info today or tomorrow.

Hi to everyone else....it's been so quiet here lately. I guess everyone is trying to get their taxes done!

[EPCOTgrl1]

Yes it is one of my grad pictures... i have 2 rolls of them....

Ya know if you are looking to get a cheep lunch or dinner that night you could always buy a sub from me. Well not really you would most likly want to go and eat down town.... good food there. I like the crab house... well i really dont know what it is called but if you park at the NA and you come out of gate one ( that is the one with the parking lot right beside it) and walk down town it will be by the water on the corner on your left ( if you were facing the water) REALLY GOOD place... sorry that must have confused (sp?) you! well anyways i hope that everything works out and you and my 'rents will get to see each other agian... I will be at school all day saturday so think of me. ( I have to make those subs in the morning and do tech crew stuff in the afternoon!

[EPCOTgrl1]

spelt disney wrong:(
www.savedisney.com

We will be away at least part of Saturday at one of Hope's indoor guard things. You have my cel number so if you get free give me a call.

Gotta love maryland, they let us do our taxes on line and e-file for free so I got both ours and Chelsea's done yesterday.

I can't get past my May trip to Sunny Ca. to start planning for August. For those who have been there, on site or off site? I'd love to stay at the Grand Calfornian or whatever the big hotel is, but is it worth the $$$ Of course after four days of seminars, I'll be ready for some serious relaxation.

[jeanneg]

Chelsea: That sounds like the same place the parents got together the last time we we there. I think the name was Crab Shack or Crab Shanty or something along those lines. Still don't know what they have planned for us yet this time.

Denise: pm me your cell phone # again just in case I can't find it. From the looks of things right now, I think our only free window is from about 2pm to 5:30 pm on Friday. The meet is scheduled to end at 8:30 pm and I'm assuming they'll arrange a parent dinner that won't be over until about 10:30 or so. By that time, we'll probably all be ready to hit the sack. But i just have to wait until the plans are finalized. We'll only be there 2 nights, but most of the others will be there for 3. They may decide to leave one night "free".
When we went to Anaheim for AAO I was so disappointed at not being able to stay at a Disney hotel. Because of the convention, it would have been a legitimate business expense, so we were really hoping for it. When i couldn't get any of the Disney hotels on my own, I even had DU try and, believe me, they tried every day because it would have been a much nicer commission for them. We ended up at the Park Place Best Western for under $100/night plus free breakfast. The hotel itself was completely adequate...nothing special, but clean and the staff was friendly.
The location, however, was SUPERB! We literally stepped outside our door, crossed at a light and we were right inside Disney territory. John and I even joked that our motel was actually closer to the main entrance than any of the 3 Disneyland hotels because you had to walk through Downtown Disney to get to the parks from them. The best part is....we ate at the Disney hotels, enjoyed the lounges at the Disney hotels,etc. but didn't pay the high price to stay there which gave us lots of extra "fun"money. We would DEFINITELY stay there again. I cannot stress how close it is! BTW, as soon as you can (60days prior?) make your ressie for Napa Rose in the Grand Californian.......it's Palo quality.

[jeanneg]

Denise:
I just sent you a pm.......for some reason I'm not getting notices for my pm's so I thought I'd better tell you here.

[jeanneg]

It's been so quiet here lately.

Denise: sorry we weren't able to get together last weekend. It turned out to be a good thing that we hadn't planned anything because we did not get out of the meet until 10pm both Friday and Saturday. I never heard of finals lasting longer than prelims but they integrated diving along with the swimming and had an award ceremony following each event. Friday night was the prearranged family dinner and we didn't enter the restaurant until close to 10:30 which was actually the time they closed! The staff was very accommodating but you could tell they were p.o.'d. We were still eating dessert at midnight! Saturday we managed to get into Middleton Tavern, but were definitely the last diners of the evening. The food was excellent, but at 10:30 the band arrived and the restaurant switched to a "smoking" facility! Annapolis was beautiful and the weather was great, but unfortunately we spent most of our time in the spectactor area of USNA. One of these days we'll have to return and see it at leisure. When that happens, we'll owe you a dinner!

Has anyone actually booked Ron Jon's yet? That's going to be my project for next week.

Leaving for WDW on Saturday for a "Mommy and us" trip with my girls. (or, as Jenni calls it: "Girls Get Wasted '04", which I find comical because at her age, she can't get "wasted" without a little assistance from us!) If anybody would like me to heck out anything, let me know.

[sbennett]

Jeanne,
Have a wonderful time in WDW. We're thinking about the Ron Jon, since it's just the 4 of us we could get a plain old studio room.
Haven't contacted them yet. We just need it for the night before the cruise...kids are interested in the pool and mini golf they supposedly have. They loved the pool at the Radisson with the water fall.

Update: Corey's the same...except that he's developed tremors from the medication, he looks like an old man with Parkinson's
Can't even hold a cup to drink because he shakes so much. They're trying to ween him off the Depakote to see if that helps...as long as the aggression doesn't increase ....the school and the hospital are still looking for a residential facility for him to go to.
I had a scare with an abnormal EKG at my family doctor, (stress...what stress!) he sent me to a Cardiologist, had Nuclear Stress Test and Echocardiagram, found out last night that everything is okay, just have an enlarged left atrial chamber, "nothing to worry about" according to the doctors....having a "sleep study" done tomorrow, for possible sleep apnea (goody-goody), and they put me on an ACE inhibitor and 81mg Aspirin daily. I've lost 8 pounds so far....a lot more to go, but taking it 10 pounds at a time as to not get depressed. My sister's lost 60 pounds on Weight Watchers and looks great. Gotta loose the weight so I can really enjoy the special treats on the cruise, but MUST be careful. I know they have "lite fare" on the menus.
Just curious...have you seen the movie "The Passion of The Christ" yet.. Jay and I saw it last night... WOW.

[eye R.N.]

I'm so jelous of Jeanneg right now. But it was a good thing we didn't meet up on our side as well since we didn't get home from Hope's first indoor guard meet until late and by then I was really sick.

Andy & I did go to Philly on tues to the savedisney.com rally. I am now the proud owner of a Roy Disney autograph and I am so hoping the picture turns out. I even saw myself on TV the next night in the news hour with Jim Lehr. It was quite the event. You could tell the "story telling gene" had been passed to Roy in his answers to the questions. Both Mr. Disney and Mr. Gold impressed me as bright ,articulate, passionate people. There was even a reception afterwards with wine and hors dorves, and ample opportunity to speak to the Disney family and Mr. Gold.

We did book Ron Jon's I went for the one bedroom for two days since I'm still not sure who is going. With the drive I figure an extra day to chill before the cruise is a good thing.

Shelly, we continue to pray for Corey here. I can't begin to imagine the stess you are under.

Eight pounds lost is great. Just go to your frig and take out a pound of butter and look at it. Now think, eight of those are gone form your body!!!!!! If you need some support for the weight loss, try the WISH board. They have helped me.

[jeanneg]

Shelley: So sorry to hear the news about Corey and the tremors. It seems every time you make a little progress, there's always another setback. At least it sounds like he's in good hands. As always, my prayers are with you.
On a happier note, that's great about losing eight pounds! The older I get, the harder it is for me to lose weight and I'm so depressed right now because I should be all packed for my trip tomorrow and none of my summer stuff fits me. The only thing that ever works for me is a very strict Atkins diet, but I hate doing that because it's just eating gobs and gobs of sheer fat. I work out 5 days a week, but can't seem to get the scale too budge.

I plan to check out the Ron Jon thing next week. We would like to leave early Thursday morning and arrive Thursday mid-afternoon, which gives us 2 nights there. We'll probably go to that shrimp place in Titusville on Thursday, but maybe we could do something together on Friday since we'll all be there by then. Sandy and Wendy, where will you guys be staying?

Denise: sounds like you had a great time in Philly. I wasn't able to be there in person, but Roy's group did get my support. Be sure to post the photo when you get it back! Sorry you weren't feeling well last weekend.....I'm missing Maryland crab already!

[luv2boys]

Hi everyone!

Shelley- Sorry to hear about things. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Great news on the weight loss. I am working out at Curves and trying to lose some weight. I have just been diagnosed with diabetes a few weeks ago and am hoping that taking off a little bit of weight will help me. Trying to figure out how to eat desserts on the cruise!!!!

Nicholas has grown just about an inch. That came in just three weeks and then he slowed down. It has thinned him out noticably. Energy perked up there for a while too but seemed to have gone back to what it was.


Hi Wendy!!!!

[gometros]

I don't think we'll do Ron Jons since Everything I've read about it indicates it's for more than an overnight stay.

[wendym]

Hi all
Sorry not been here much, things have been rather hectic. My boss finally resigned and the interviews were a couple of weeks ago. Gave a good interview, impressed the new Principal but still didn't get it - they didn't think I could handle the awkward member in our dept. Pity they didn't think to ask in the interview how I would handle him! I know the person who got it - not impressed by him (isn't it a shock that it is a male!) as he won't change anything. So am looking for another post. But enough moaning.
Shelley and Jay - our thoughts and prayers are with you. Amy - great to hear from you.
Denise - we stay at the Carousel in Anaheim which is just across the road and nearer than the Paradise Pier and Disneyland Hotel and about 1/4 of the price!
I signed onto the savdisney website and have the bumper sticker proudly displayed.
We're staying at the Oceanside Inn the night before the cruise - did think about Ron Jon's but we can get this for free and mum wants to go boogie boarding in the sea - yes she hasn't grown up any!
Three weeks till our Easter break - yeah!
Love to all
Wendy and Doreen.

[gometros]

Wendy, what position were you interviewing for? Sorry that you didn't get it. They don't know the mistake they made.

Do you guys we're about at the point we were last year when the thread started up? We're under 150 days and spring is around the corner. Woo hoo!!

[jeanneg]

Wendy: so sorry about not getting the position you wanted.....I agree with Sandy that they're definitely making a big mistake.

Yikes! Less than 150 days to go? That means I've got to start some serious dieting......I don't think a single item from last year's cruise still fits and all the Dole whips I had over the weekend certainly didn't help any!
Mission Space was interesting but not something I'd be anxious to do again. I found all the preshow flight training to be tedious and although I didn't get sick, I felt kinda queasey upon exiting. The parks were extremely empty so we pretty much walked on to everything. The funny thing was that once the stand-by line for TOT was actually shorter than the one for fastpass! This was the first time we ever did WWTBAM at MGM and I was happy to have made the top 10 list. Unfortunately, I pressed the control panel so hard and so fast that my thumb is still sore today! (and we did it on Saturday)

[jeanneg]

Denise:
I just sent you a pm (I just got yours from a week ago because I'm not getting notifications!)

Is anybody else having trouble getting notified about PMs?

[wendym]

The post was the job I have basically been doing for years without getting paid for it - the Head of Department. It's actually been really nice the number of people who cannot believe I didn't get it. The pupils are now getting wind of it and have been really good boosting my self esteem no end. We spent yesterday afternoon modelling genes with modelling clay and candies yesterday - reminds me why I went into teaching!
So looking frward to meeting up with everyone again. My great niece was looking at some of our photos and she calls it Nan and Auntie Wendy's boat - and as she is only 3 I am not going to tell her it is a ship!
I too have had problems with PM's and email notification - I even went to my user CP to check it and I think I have done everything correct.
Have a good weekend all.
Wendy

[sbennett]

Currently booked as Category 8, any thoughts on downgrading to a Category 11? Trying to save money! Has anyone stayed in Category 11? Give us your thoughts!::MickeyMo ::MinnieMo

[DVCLady]

I've stayed in a category 10. The inside staterooms are just as nice as the outside ones. I've stayed in a few categories. The only thing is you won't have the huge porthole window. I think category 11 doesn't have the split bath either. If you don't plan on sitting in your room and looking out the window then go ahead and get the category 11. There are so many other things to do on the ship. If you still want to save some money and still have the split bath get category 10.

[wendym]

Shelley
Mum and I are always in a Category 11 on Deck 7. We don't have a split bath but then we figure we aren't going to spend much time in the room anyway! I don't think there would be that much difference in size between the category 11 and 8 but of course it is only the two of us.
Wendy

[jeanneg]

Shelley:
Why don't you try to get a category 11 that is situated on 7 aft. That way you can use that nice spacious hidden veranda that is located there. If the 7th deck isn't available, try 6 or 5 aft. This way you could have your coffee, read a book, have a glass of wine, etc. on the veranda and still be fairly close to your room.

[jeanneg]

DVClady:
Great to hear from you again.....we need to get some more input from all of the newbies and get this party started!

[eye R.N.]

Got your PM today Jeannie. Notifications, nah, I've just learned to check each I time I get on.

Wendy, sorry you didn't get the job. Andy goes in for his "I really want my own school" interview next week.

Shelly, we did a cat 11 on our first trip. The only problem was it was under the night club. The upper decks should be fine. We are also thinking about moving down a catagory to a 9. I really don't mind deck 2 and the extra money will come in handy.

[DVCLady]

sorry for not posting often, I've been getting ready for the April 18th cruise. As soon as that is over I'll post more for the August 7th cruise. I wonder when DCL will post the excursions on the website for San Juan. :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[DVCLady]

Category 6 was at GTY status at Traveocity. Looks like the ship is getting booked up. :wave:

[gometros]

DVClady - I'm jealous - two cruises in a year? April 18th is a good day to sail, it's my daughter's sweet 16.

Shelley, don't worry if you take the cat 11, you're always welcome to come vist us and sit on our veranda :)

[jeanneg]

Elana's BD is right smack between Jenni's (20 on 4/16) and Nikki's (22 0n 4/20). Boy, how I used to hate doing those practically back-to-back birthday parties back then!

[gometros]

Ouch, ours are spread out - April, June and August. But, for Elana, we have virtual twin birthdays since her closest friend shares her birthday - they're virtual twins.

[wendym]

Denise - please wish Andy all the best. Then if he gets the job I can see if he wants a Biology teacher!
Looking forward to seeing what excursions they plan for San Juan also although we probably do it ourselves.
Wendy

[gometros]

Thinking of moving stateside, Wendy? :)

I was thinking of you last week. A friend of ours father was visiting from Canada. He's originally from Scotland and still hasn't lost his brogue. She's expecting twins soon and her "da" came to help out since he's retired.

[wendym]

I am always thinking of moving stateside!
I hope the twins do well once born and enjoy having their Grandda visiting.
I have been busy buying Hotwire vouchers for disney meals and the 1/2 price vouchers for the Hard Rock Cafe - have to take advantage of the exchange rate before the Budget tomorrow!
Wendy

[gometros]

Hotwire vouchers for Disney meals? What are they and how do they work?

[wendym]

The hotwire vouchers come from the hotwire savings club. (Trying www.hotwire.com should take you there – at work and cannot access it!) Got it - http://www.hotwiresavingsclub.com/hsc/index.asp?2

You can get a month’s free trial then it is $7.95 a month. Under the theme park meal vouchers there are various types. The quick and casual ones are $11.50 and can be used at quick service counters and Beaches and Cream. I think it is an entree, dessert and drink. The vacation kingdom lunch vouchers are $31 and can be used at most sit down places and the Rainforest Café. These are for 1 appetizer, 1 entrée, 1 dessert and 1 non alcoholic drinks. Also there is a breakfast voucher too. There is a thread at the top of the Budget Board that describes it all. Mum and I will probably split a few meals using these.
You also get 20% back on Bahama Breeze, Olive Garden, Outback vouchers and a few other retail places. I shouldn’t be able to get them as I live outside the US but they accept my card and they ship them (free shipping) to a friend in Texas.
Wendy

[sbennett]

Thanks for the veranda invitation....we didn't use ours last year very much, other than to dry beach towels and swim suits. And me saying my morning prayers thanking God for another glorious day!
We switched to a catagory 11 and saved $800. We can buy alot of coolers and coladas with that! We figured last year we weren't in the cabin much other than to sleep and get showered/dressed so we'd go cheaper this year. They said they "guarantee" us a catagory 11 on deck 5,6 or 7. But we may not know what cabin until departure....that concerns me a bit but...it's Disney so it can't be bad.

Good Luck Andy....hope you get what you want!

We're going to stay at the Radisson the night before departure since we'll be at WDW Boardwalk Villas on 8/3, 4 and 5. We didn't want to drive from WDW the day of the cruise, God forbid there's a traffic tie up or car problems!

[eye R.N.]

Our home PC was "doomed" saturday. It kept telling us we were out of memory and shutting down after a minute. Long story short, God sent a computer de-bugger in the form of Taylor's chemistry tutor and he has us up and running again, but I've lost all my old e-mail (including my dreams unlimited confirmation numbers) anyway to get that stuff back? I think it's time for us to downgrade and save some money.

I'll be out of touch from thursday till the 26th. I'll be practicing for the drive to flordia and visiting the parents.

[gometros]

Originally posted by eye R.N.
Our home PC was "doomed" saturday. It kept telling us we were out of memory and shutting down after a minute. Long story short, God sent a computer de-bugger in the form of Taylor's chemistry tutor and he has us up and running again, but I've lost all my old e-mail (including my dreams unlimited confirmation numbers) anyway to get that stuff back? I think it's time for us to downgrade and save some money.

Without knowing what the tutor did, I don't know. However, what mail program do you use?

[jeanneg]

Hi everyone!
Just posting to say "hi" and get this bumped up to the first page again. The cruise is only a little more than 4 months away.......let's have a little excitement!!!!!!
Actually, if you all (and notice that was NOT "y'all"!) are as busy as I've been lately, it's not surprising that no one has posted.
As I type this, Jason is on a flight to Berlin for a 10-day, 5 country whirl through Europe. As of this week, all the college acceptances are in, and he now has to make his decision....hopefuly he'll have lots of time on the plane to think about it. In just a few hours, Adam and his girlfriend will be traveling from LA to spend their spring break with us. Unfortunately, he won't get to see Jason at all this trip. Jen already had her spring break, but she and a few other friends are driving down Wednesday to spend a long weekend with us. So except for Jason, we'll have a full house for Easter!
Hope everybody is doing well....pop in and say "hello"!
Regards,
Jeanne

[musicalSaranader]

Hello! I'm getting very excited for the cruise; summer can't come fast enough!!

[eye R.N.]

That your kid's senior year would make you this busy.

Between Chelsea's and Hope's activities we have been traveling every weekend for shows. The grand finale will be the Bands march down WDW main street before the night parade April 23rd. I am taking that opportunity to have a long (just girls) weekend with my sister. Then the next weekend it is off to San Diego for a coference and three days at DL where they will be opening the Tower or Terror.

So right now I have three Disney trips in the pipeline, so major planning for the cruise will be happening after Mothers Day.

The strangest thing happened this week. I was at AAA to pay off the DL trip (their quote was the cheapest by about $100) and while chatting with my travel agent discovered her family will be on our cruise as well. Now all I need is to get her on this board. Think of all the things we could ask a travel agent. :teeth:

Happy Passover and Easter to all.

[sbennett]

Hello friends,
Shelley had an MRI this past Thursday which showed that she has 2 herniated discs. She is in excrutiating pain and has to see the neurosurgeon on Monday. I would ask that you keep her in your prayers.

Thanks and Happy Easter/Passover to you all!!

Jay Bennett

[jeanneg]

Oh Shelley, I truly feel for you. I also had two herniated disks over 10 years ago and spent 3 or 4 months in either excruciating pain or was so medicated I was virtually useless. At the time all 4 of my children were under 10 and if it were not for the kindness of my family and friends, I don't know how I would have pulled through. Hopefully you will be a good candidate for surgery because mine was extremely successful and I haven't been bothered since. You poor thing.....as if you haven't already gone through enough this year. Of course, I will keep you in my prayers. Just keep thinking "conch coolers" on Castaway Cay......"

Yo, Denise, now you know why John and I are so happy to see our last one leave........it means we're doing all this senior year cr*p for the absolute LAST time!

[eye R.N.]

Of course Shelley will be in our prayers. Are they thinking surgery?

[sbennett]

Hi Denise,

Not sure what they are going to do. Shelley sees the neurosurgeon tomorrow around noon. I hope they do something then, she's in terrible pain. :( I know she's really looking forward to the Cruise...we all are.

[sbennett]

Hello all,

Well out trip to the neurosurgeon today will bring a proceedure called Epidural Steroid Injection (EIS). This will hopefully bring relief from the inflamation and the pain which will allow the area to "heal". Right now Shelley cannont take anymore anti-inflammatory before the proceedure. :( We'll keep you posted! Keep praying!!

[jeanneg]

Hi Jay,
Please give Shelley our best and let her know our thoughts and prayers are with her. I'm not familiar with the procedure you mentioned, but alot can happen in ten years and I'm sure they've come up with many new advances. If she can get away without surgery, all the better.
All our love,
Jeanne, John and kids